Viking Voice, Spring 2015

SPRING 2015

VIKING VOICE A Magazine for Lyndon Institute alumni, parents and friends.

ur o ut ul M o f ab ess TER ad cc Y 10 e R su AR age NU p JA on

Daren M. Houck

On Campus............................................................................................. 2

ASSISTANT HEAD FOR ACADEMICS

Adam A. Norwood

ASSISTANT HEAD FOR CAMPUS LIFE

Robert G. Heath, Jr., ’88

ASSISTANT HEAD FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Mary Ellen “Mel” Reis

ASSISTANT HEAD FOR FINANCE

Charles W. Bucknam

ASSISTANT HEAD FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Twiladawn W. Perry, ’77 Richard D. Ashton ’61

Dr. Gregory J. McCormick ’91 Cover photo: Senior Aaron Leonard participates in January Term class in robotics.

Cover photo: Steve Legge

Norman R. Messier TREASURER

Elaine A. Smith ’63

TRUSTEE AT LARGE TRUSTEE AT LARGE

David R. Stahler, Sr. ’65

David B. Aronoff ’82 Laura P. Ashton David J. Beattie ’61 Joseph Benning Marlin W. Devenger ’67 Jeanne A. Elliott ’64 Patricia B. Emery ’70 Joseph C. Flynn T. Michael Flynn James C. Gallagher ’63 Stephen A. Gray ’65 Daniel D. Heath ’68 Peter C. Hopkins ’75 Elizabeth P. Koenig ’01 Lorraine C. Matteis ’65 James A. McDonald ’66 Amy M. McGarry ’86 Emery J. Noyes ’62 Thaddeus G. Richardson Nathan P. Sicard ’00 Sara J. Simpson

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Development...................................................................................12

Winter Carnival............................................ Back Cover

SECRETARY

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January Term..................................................................................10

In Memoriam..................................................................................24

VICE PRESIDENT

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Athletics..................................................................................................... 8

Class Notes.........................................................................................18

PRESIDENT

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Learning Collaborative.......................................................... 7

Alumni Weekend 2015.....................................................16

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

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New Trustees...................................................................................... 6

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VIKING VOICE P.O. Box 127 168 Institute Circle Lyndon Center, VT 05850

802 626-3357 fax 802 626-8302

www.lyndoninstitute.org

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter from the Headmaster......................................... 1

HEADMASTER

It is the policy of Lyndon Institute not to discriminate on the basis of a student’s or his/her family member’s actual or perceived race, color, ancestry, national origin, creed, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, age, military/ uniformed service or veteran’s status, disability, or other legally protected classification in the provision and administration of its educational programs, activities, services, and access provided to the public, in accordance with and to the limits of applicable requirements of state and federal laws. Lyndon Institute complies with the American Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as well as other applicable state and federal laws with respect to accommodating individuals with disabilities. Lyndon Institute provides special education to eligible students in accordance with the School’s special education approval from the State of Vermont, state and federal legal requirements, the School’s policies and in coordination with the student’s school district.

Lyndon Institute Viking Voice is published twice a year by the Development Office.

We welcome submissions for publication and letters in response to articles. Please send submissions to Melissa Hall, Director of Development, Melissa.Hall@lyndoninstitute.org.

“In our nearly 150 years of existence, I believe that we may be at our most critical juncture in the need to assert our independence—both institutionally and financially.”

Letter from the Headmaster

IN THE FALL 1987 ISSUE OF THE LYNDON QUARTERLY (a predecessor of the Viking Voice), an article was published regarding a push to reassert LI’s independence. The article, by Ann Raible, read, “We are losing sight of the historical tradition that gave Lyndon Institute its birth—we are a private institution serving the public good…we need to reclaim our heritage and reassert our independence.” The article goes on about the need to fundraise, as “the tax base of the community is not infinitely elastic” and how we all—alumni especially—must follow the generous example of our founders by giving to the endowment they established to “provide a quality education” and outstanding facilities above and beyond of what any publicly-funded school can afford.

As a testament to the fact that “some things never change,” here I am—almost 28 years later—echoing those words.

In our nearly 150 years of existence, I believe that we may be at our most critical juncture in the need to assert our independence—both institutionally and financially.

The political tenor in Montpelier continues to be a grave one, and the need to be programmatically indispensible and fiscally autonomous are our key priorities. These are two key areas I have committed to in order to set Lyndon Institute up for grand success for the next 150 years.

The first assertion of our independence rests with making LI “programmatically indispensible.” This can be done by successfully achieving three core objectives: continue to elevate the quality of our college and career preparatory programs so they are second to none in New England and beyond; establish new, additional programs that make LI unique and sought after in the regional and global market; and develop partnerships that expand our significance and open endless opportunities for our students. These three objectives are currently being achieved through our assessment and auditing of each current and potential program to ensure that it is of the highest caliber and aligns to our Purpose, Promise and Principles, as well as with new partnerships such as the Lyndon Learning Collaborative (see page 7) and other joint partnerships with our towns and area for- and non-profit businesses.

The second assertion of our independence lies with making LI “fiscally autonomous.” Here, too, this can be done by successfully achieving three main objectives: continuing to ensure sound fiscal management of the highest caliber; seeking out new ways to achieve financial efficiencies through better communication and collaboration internally and externally; and increasing the support of our aptlySPRING 2015

named Independence Fund and other monetary support, including capital campaigns and endowment giving. These goals are being achieved through a variety of ways. We are fortunate to have—literally—one of the best secondary and college-level business offices in all of New England. Our financial management team is highly rated annually during our independent audit and other regular financial reviews by outside agencies. We pledge to continue to operate intelligently and soundly. In addition, we will seek out every possible avenue to operate more efficiently internally and externally—including working closely with Lyndon State College to share classes and instructors and by finding ways to creatively partner with the town and the College to share resources and minimize redundancies in order to reduce taxes while expanding services. Finally, and more importantly, work with trustees, alumni and the entire LI community to increase fundraising and expand endowment support from other non-profits whose mission is to support educational programming. As a piece of this, LI will also work closely with donors to provide the absolute maximum tax benefit by exploring a variety of giving methods—from cash to stock to estate giving. These savings and new levels of income will allow us to rely less on tuition and more on our endowment and other income sources.

By corporately committing to these objectives, Lyndon Institute will not only reassert its independence at a higher level than previously experienced, it will also—more importantly—allow us to better serve our students at higher levels of excellence both today and for years to come.

Sincerely, Daren

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On Campus

Business Leadership Workshop for Young Women

LYNDON INSTITUTE WAS PLEASED to welcome 56 girls from the ages of 15-18 for a full day of learning real-world strategies during Camp BPW (Business Professional Women).

The camp was sponsored by the St. Johnsbury chapter for the National Federation of Business and Professional Women. The program featured workshops and meetings with representatives from area organizations who offered personal assistance with financial planning, goal setting, decision-making and career planning. Over 35 volunteers coordinated the activities. The costs for the workshops, including lunch and materials were paid for by donations from area members and businesses. St. Johnsbury was the first local organization in the Vermont Federation of Business and Professional Women. Founded in January of 1922, it is the longest continuously running Chapter in the state.

Students from Melissa Tyler’s welding class at Lyndon Institute created this unique floral sculpture to raise money for this year’s SkillsUSA® competitions. The student artists were LI juniors, Ryan Solinsky and Nancy Young with assistance from LI alumnus, Andrew Fontaine, ’10. The team worked with Performance Powder Coating in St. Johnsbury who donated powder coating services. Precision machining company, NSA Industries, also located in St. Johnsbury, donated the clear coat material needed to complete the powder coating.

Students Honor Veteran’s Day

LI students (L-R), Brian Ntabana, Maia Fialco, Blaine Grieves, Peter Wang, Sierra Keon and Laura Pigne-Pareja.

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IN HONOR OF VETERAN’S DAY, students from Jerri Potter’s advisory visited several veterans’ organizations to meet with veterans and to deliver gifts of cheer and appreciation. They stopped by the VFW in Lyndonville and St. Johnsbury to present floral and balloon arrangements. Afterwards, the group traveled to the White River Junction VA Medical Center to visit with patients and present puzzles and magazines purchased from the proceeds of a recent fundraiser coordinated by the advisory. The students attended the Veteran’s Day Memorial presentation that featured a key note address from Colonel Mark B. Pomeroy (U.S. Army retired), music by the Lyme Town Band, the laying of the memorial wreath at the Veteran’s Brick Walkway, taps and Honor Guard salute.

ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

The Secret Garden

FRANCES HODGSON BURNETT’S beloved children’s book came to life when the Lyndon Institute Theater Company presented the Tony award-winning musical The Secret Garden for the fall musical.

The Secret Garden premiered on Broadway in 1991, winning the Tony award for Best Musical. The show features book and lyrics by Marsha Norman and music by Lucy Simon.

The performance was directed by LI’s theater director and acting teacher, Laura Wayne, musical direction by LI music teacher, Susanne Norwood, and choreography by LI dance teacher, Rebecca McGregor. The production showcased the many talents of the dedicated student actors, vocalists, musicians, and crew members at Lyndon Institute.

Steve Shannon Hip Hops Back to LI

LI ALUMNUS and former dance student Steve Shannon, ’06, was on campus in October as an Artist in Residence working with students in the dance program. Steve is a professional dancer who has worked in a variety of venues including Disney World, the Orlando Magic, cruise ships, and most recently, with the Harlem Globetrotters. Steve returns to LI each year to share his skills and techniques with the dance students. During this visit, he supplemented students’ work in jazz and ballet with core-focused exercises and concentrated their movements through hip hop material.

SPRING 2015

The E. Harris Brown building (above) is one of two buildings that the Thaddeus Stevens School will occupy on the Lyndon Institute campus starting in the fall of 2015.

Lyndon Institute Renews Lease for Thaddeus Stevens School LYNDON INSTITUTE has agreed to a new five-year lease, with an option for an additional five years, to host the Thaddeus Stevens School on the LI campus.

Beginning in the fall of 2015, the Thaddeus Stevens School will be moving from their current location (the Vail Barn) and occupy the E. Harris Brown (the former Campus School) and Luther B. Harris buildings. The Vail Barn will be converted into a new student center for Lyndon Institute students.

“This new location is ideal for our school and our students,” says Julie Hansen, Director of the Thaddeus Stevens School. “Traffic flow and parking will be more conducive for parents and staff and the facilities are excellent. Our increased enrollment led to a need for additional space and we are pleased that LI worked with us to accommodate our needs. The Luther B. Harris building has a wonderful history as an educational facility and we are very pleased to extend that legacy.”

The new Vail Student Center for Lyndon Institute will be introduced in the fall.

“We are able to renovate the barn into a new student center at a reduced cost thanks to the capital improvements made to the barn by the Thaddeus Stevens School,” said Robert Heath, Assistant Head for Campus Life at Lyndon Institute. “We are very excited to open this new facility in an effort to improve the integration of our students who live on campus and those who live in our local communities.”

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On Campus

National Honor Society

Lyndon Institute Receives Grant for Diversified Agriculture Program LYNDON INSTITUTE RECEIVED a $55,640 Program Innovation grant from the Agency of Education in support of a Diversified Agriculture Program. Program Innovation grants support initiatives that provide a continuing source of innovation and education improvement and meet the educational needs of all students. The grant supports the expenses for the instructor’s salary, equipment and materials to run the program.

The new Diversified Agriculture Program will fold in two existing classes in animal science and horticulture and expand upon subjects specific to agriculture. The animal science sector will focus on domestic animals; anatomy and physiology as well as disease, behavior and production techniques. Careers related to animal science will be covered as well. Horticulture will introduce students to basic landscaping as well as other career opportunities.

Students will study general plant anatomy and physiology as well as soil science, plant propagation, maple sugaring,

pest control and landscape planning. Hands-on laboratories will include field trips to greenhouses, natural ecosystems, Christmas tree farms, forestry management operations, area farms, grafting operations and landscaping businesses.

“Our Diversified Agriculture Program is very similar to the purpose of the original School of Agriculture at LI,” said Twiladawn Perry, Assistant Head for Career and Technical Education. “Back in 1910, the goal for the School of Agriculture was to provide theoretical instruction to boys (not girls) who had neither the money nor inclination to pursue an extensive college curriculum. Today, we have a number of students, both boys and girls, who wish to pursue a career in agriculture and this program allows them to earn industry-recognized credentials and follow a path to college if they so choose it.”

WEEKLY PARENT PAGE Every Friday, while school is in session, we send out an e-mail filled with schedules, news, contact information and helpful hints to keep in touch with life on campus. If you would like to receive this, visit LyndonInstitute.org and search “weekly parent page.”

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ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

Student Video Highlights Alumnus Vermont Dance Festival

A LONG-STANDING PERFORMING ARTS TRADITION continued as LI welcomed dancers from Vermont and throughout New England for the 12th annual Vermont State Dance Festival in November.

The Festival brings together hundreds of dance professionals and students to lead and participate in professional-level dance workshops for a variety of styles and techniques as well as collaborate in the reflective process in preparation for an evening performance open to the public.

“I am thrilled that the Vermont State Dance Festival has become such a strong event for our community and our school,” says LI Fine and Performing Arts Chair, Rebecca McGregor. “The Festival is intended to introduce students to new dance styles and techniques that they might not routinely be exposed to in their high school dance programs; to allow students to interact with experienced professionals; and to provide the students an opportunity to perform before a larger audience than they might typically enjoy. The day is intense and the energy on campus is terrific!”

The Vermont State Dance Festival was started by McGregor in 2003 after discovering a need for collaboration between dance students and instructors on a state-wide level. The Festival offers high schoolaged dancers of all disciplines an opportunity to study new and varied techniques with professional dancers and to showcase their skills before professional artists, teachers, their student peers and the general public.

The event is composed of three elements: a day-long series of several classes led by professional artists; a closed session for the dancers to perform prepared choreographies for feedback from professionals, student peers and participating dance instructors; and an evening performance open to the general public.

This year, the Vermont State Dance Festival was pleased to welcome dancers Sebastian Ryder, Jim and Claudia Shell-Raposa, Heather Clark-Warner, Karen Amirault, Danielle Varadakas , Heidi Broome, Lida Winfield , and Willow Wonder.

SPRING 2015

LI JUNIOR, VAL DAVIS participated in a video production workshop through Catamount Arts in January and for four weekends, Val and other students learned the complexities of video production. The subject of his video was LI alumnus and wood craftsman, David Patoine, Class of 1977. David owns Calendar Brook Cabinetry and graciously offered to be the subject of the video and hosted the students in his shop where each student shot and recorded their own audio and video. The video is available to watch on the Lyndon Institute You Tube Channel.

Watch us on YouTube “LyndonInstitute”

Humans of the Northeast Kingdom Facebook Page

INSPIRED BY CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE’S TED talk “The Danger of a Single Story” and Brandon Stanton’s Humans of New York, 22 Lyndon Institute students spent three weeks during January Term interviewing and photographing members of the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. Their goal was to capture the diversity and complexity of the area, with an eye toward what makes each person unique as well as what unifies us all. They conducted nearly 300 interviews during time and several are posted daily.

Thank you to all who have “Liked” our page and we encourage others to join us! We are excited by the interest and will continue to share the students’ work.

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New Trustees

Elected to the Lyndon Institute Board at Annual Meeting, October 2014

“I am pleased that Dave, Joe and Nate are willing to serve as trustees of Lyndon Institute, and I am looking forward to working with them. Each brings a unique background that will be helpful as the school takes advantage of the opportunities ahead,” said LI President, Richard Ashton.

RICHARD D. ASHTON, President of Lyndon Institute, is pleased to announce the following new members of the Board of Trustees. They are alumnus David J. Beattie (Class of 1961), Senator Joe Benning, and alumnus Nathan Sicard (Class of 2000).

DAVID BEATTIE grew up in Lyndonville, attended Lyndonville Grade School and Lyndon Institute, graduating with the class of 1961. He graduated from Dartmouth College in 1965 with a major in Engineering Science. In 1966, he graduated from Thayer School of Engineering, an associated school of Dartmouth College, and was commissioned as an ensign through the Navy ROTC program. After completing nuclear power and submarine training, David served in two ballistic missile submarines, two attack submarines, including five years as commanding officer of the USS Jack (SSN 605), and on two submarine related staffs. Following the completion of his naval service in 1986, he was engaged in several engineering related occupations, including 17 years as Quality Manager at Lawrence Pumps Inc., where he managed initial and continuing certification of the company’s quality system to international standard ISO 9001. He retired from Lawrence Pumps in 2008. He is a retired licensed professional engineer in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. He is married to Susan, LI class of 1963. They currently reside in Eliot, Maine, and have two children and two grandchildren.

SENATOR JOE BENNING is a trial attorney, practicing primarily in criminal and family law in Lyndonville, VT. He graduated from Lyndon State College in 1979 and received his Juris Doctorate from the Vermont Law School in 1983. In 2010, he was elected to the Vermont Senate, representing the Caledonia-Orange District. He serves on the Senate standing committees of Judiciary (as vice chair) and Institution. He is the past chairman of the Vermont Human Rights Commission (appointed by Governor James

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Douglas) and former member of the Board of Trustees for the Vermont State Colleges.

Benning serves as a corporator for NVRH and as the former president and current member of the Lyndonville Rotary Club (Paul Harris Fellow). He is also a past president and former member of the Lyndon State College Foundation.

He lives in Lyndonville with his wife Deb and they have two children, Emily and Justin.

NATHAN SICARD graduated from LI with the Class of 2000.

He received a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Vermont in 2004 and is an engineer with Ruggles Engineering Services in St. Johnsbury, VT. In addition to consulting for several civil engineering projects throughout Vermont, Sicard has provided assistance with several capital projects at Lyndon Institute including the redesign and construction of Campbell and Hilton Dormitories. He also assisted with environmental permitting to complete the McDonald Family Field at LI. As a corporator at LI, Sicard served on the Building and Grounds Committee and the subcommittee for the Binney Woods Project on Burke Mountain.

Nathan resides with his wife Kinsley at their home in Barton, VT and serves as a member of the Town of Barton Planning and Zoning Boards and as a trustee for the Village of Barton.

The departing members of the Lyndon Institute Board of Trustees include Linda Bishop, Randall Northrop and Earl F. Daniels.

New corporators elected during the Annual Meeting are Christopher Chandler ’77 and Jane Newland ’78.

Departing corporators are Karl Armstrong, Mary Beausoleil, Kara Coons, John Eliot, Wesley Emerson, James A. Gallagher, Bruce Grant, Craig Lantagne, Mark Morrissette, Mary Ann Riggie, Dr. Rodney Taylor, Michael Wheeler, and Chuck Fergus.

Lyndon Institute is an independent school governed by 27 trustees elected by up to 150 corporators.

ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

LSC President Bertolino and LI Headmaster Daren Houck are sharing resources – and school pride – as part of the newly created Lyndon Learning Collaborative.

Learning Collaborative

Lyndon State and Lyndon Institute announce new agreement to make college more affordable and degree completion faster LYNDON STATE COLLEGE PRESIDENT Joe Bertolino and Lyndon Institute Headmaster Daren Houck have announced the creation of the Lyndon Learning Collaborative, a new partnership between the schools to enhance dual enrollment and early college initiatives.

The Collaborative’s early college program will provide Lyndon Institute (LI) students in their senior year with a rigorous high school experience that gives them credit toward their freshman year at Lyndon State College (LSC) at no additional cost to the student or the taxpayer. The program is slated to begin in fall of 2015; twenty-five students are expected to participate.

Under the terms of the Collaborative, LI seniors may attend LSC for free; the last year of high school and first year of college is a “joint” year, completed simultaneously; and all classes are to be taught at LI. The program’s college credits are free for students who stay through their sophomore (second) year at LSC; otherwise they pay a per-credit fee to award and transfer the credits to another college.

Bertolino said, “The partnership makes sense on so many levels and I’m excited about it. Our proximity is an advantage, our shared faculty, resources, and facilities allow us to be more productive and fiscally responsible. Our similar missions have a focus on student preparedness for future success. And this program is a terrific way to make college affordable.”

SPRING 2015

Houck added, “We are committed to creating new pathways for our students so they may secure a successful future if they decide to settle here in the NEK. I hope this partnership is the first of many as we continue to target new business and economic development initiatives that provide sustainable and cutting-edge opportunities for our students.”

“On a personal level, Dr. Bertolino and I are proud of the world-class education we provide our students,” Houck said.

“Our love, support, and belief in Lyndon and the Northeast Kingdom led us to create this unique opportunity for local residents to afford an outstanding high school and college that not only provides excellent academic preparation for their students, but also cares and believes in them.”

Bertolino also noted, “This program dovetails nicely with national trends discussed at recent American Association of State College and Universities meetings. The conversations centered on ‘core liberal arts plus experiential learning equal jobs.’ That’s what we’re already doing here at LSC and now in cooperation with LI – turning passions into professions.”

Over the next several months, LI Assistant Head for Academics Adam Norwood will be working with the College to finalize details of the agreement.

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Fernando Tejero, an LI boarding student from Spain, was featured in the Spanish newspaper, El Norte De Castilla, highlighting the LI soccer program and our coaching staff. The coaches are Matt Andrews (left) and Richard McCarthy (right).

Athletics

New Baseball & Softball Coaches

THIS YEAR FANS WILL SEE SOME NEW FACES in the dugouts at the baseball and softball fields as both varsity teams are under new leadership.

Jeremy Wheeler, ’99, takes over as the varsity baseball coach from Justin Smith, ’93, who is retiring after 12 years and state titles in 2003 and 2009. During that time, Smith compiled a 139-83 record. Jeremy was an assistant under Justin for many of those years. Jeremy has over 10 years of coaching experience within the Lyndon Institute baseball programs, and as an LI alumnus, was also a member of the baseball team throughout his high school career. Some of his coaching accomplishments include three undefeated seasons coaching the JV team, and serving on the coaching staff as our team won the Division II Baseball State Championship in 2009.

On the softball field, Chris Carr, ’85, takes over for Mike John, ’79, who is retiring after six years and three trips to the state finals. Chris coached the JV team last year and will be joined by assistant coaches Randy Boulay, ’84, and Kevin Ruggles, ’83. Chris has extensive experience coaching athletes within the Lyndon Institute softball program as well as the local community softball teams. His accomplishments as coach include taking Babe Ruth teams to win the Vermont State Championships, and then representing Vermont at the Regional Championships in 2011 and 2012, and coaching two years with the Amateur Softball Association, taking teams to locations throughout New England.

Thank you to Justin and Mike for your commitment to LI and the students and good luck to Jeremy and Chris!!

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Jeremy Wheeler takes over as varsity baseball coach from Justin Smith.

Chris Carr coaching Emily Doty, ’14

ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

Alumni Hockey Game 2014: Front: Deryck Colburn ’14. Kneeling: Alex Turcotte ’14, Arik Bergeron ’11, Matt Doyon ’05, Jason Hopkins ’03, Scott Davis ’06, Eric Sargent ’07, Nate Sicard ’00, Alex Montgomery ’12, Nykea Williams ’09, Brooke Hubbard-Sizen ’13. Standing: Mike Matteis ’89, Brad Goodwin ’85, Andy Doyon ’07, Sean Montgomery ’00, Paul Schartner ’07, TJ Hopkins ’01, Jake Wilkins ’14, Jake Solomon ’13, Jason Lanctot ’07, Dan Baillargeon ’05, Brennan Parker ’09, Tim Kirchoff ’96, Anthony Bradley ’06, Brad Grant ’89, Ben Peters ’12, Kevin McClure ’91, (MVP) Gary Chester ’74, Mike Mathers ’78, Neil Lefebvre ’99, Eric Miller ’95.

Senior Jay Cobb scored his 1,000th point of his basketball career during a play-off game over Springfield in February.

Jay becomes the first LI athlete to score 1,000 points and to have won a state championship. Jay is pictured here with his dad and mom, Dave and Beth Cobb.

Senior Jack Brown set a Division II indoor state record in the pole vault when he cleared 13’6” in February at the state meet at Norwich University. Jack and teammate Emily Bean, also a senior, qualified for the New England meet.

Jack in the 55m hurdles and Emily in the 300m. Jack was also named to the Vermont All-State team as one of the top eight finishers from both divisions combined.

Freshman Emma Hudson had a successful season competing in gymnastics.

Emma trains with the St. Johnsbury Academy team but is considered an independent when it comes to event scoring.

Roxanne Courser will be inducted into the Vermont Principals’ Association Hall of Fame in May. A standout athlete for Danville in the late 1970s, Courser, now a coach and teacher at Lyndon Institute, set Danville’s all-time school (girls and boys) scoring record of 1,712 points — before the 3-point shot era. The mark still stands today. Roxanne has worked at LI since 1999. In that time she has served as a teacher, and most recently, as the Assistant to the Athletic Director.

She has worked as a basketball coach and for the last 11 years has been the varsity field hockey coach.

SPRING 2015

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Visit the Lyndon Institute Facebook page and Website to view pictures from January Term!

January Term

BETWEEN THE FIRST AND SECOND SEMESTERS, for the three weeks after the holiday vacation, students participated in an “interim” term to immerse themselves in either an intensive study of subjects of their choosing or an internship. January Term provided unique opportunities for students to experience project-based learning.

We wish to thank the members of area businesses and alumni that supported our faculty and students by participating in classes, offering professional assistance or providing internships.

A Lyndon Home Companion

A JANUARY TERM CLASS, taught by musical director Susanne Norwood, presented a unique spin on the popular NPR variety show “A Prairie Home Companion.” Directed by LI senior, Katie Ham, students created commercials, stories, reflections and other comedies based on oldfashioned radio techniques (canned laughter, sound effects and comedic timing). Katie received a special note of support from Garrison Keillor, the director of the NPR show, when she wrote to ask for advice on writing a radio variety show. The entire performance is available on the Lyndon Institute You Tube channel.

WEEKLY PARENT PAGE Every Friday, while school is in session, we send out an e-mail filled with schedules, news, contact information and helpful hints to keep in touch with life on campus. If you would like to receive this, visit LyndonInstitute.org and search “weekly parent page.”

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ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

During January Term our students…

Developed a new product

Designed and constructed trebuchets

Tasted and compared fine cheeses from Jasper Hill

Made a piece of fine furniture

Discovered the history of baseball in Vermont from Brian Gallagher, ’87 Performed a song in sign language

Designed custom jewelry

Recorded their own music

Studied fashion trends, past and present

Learned how to tie a fly

SPRING 2015

Launched a near-space balloon

Developed a children’s theater performance

Captured images of our surroundings

Baked, cooked and served in several different courses

Managed how to properly tie over two dozen knots

Experienced how to survive in the wilderness… and much more!

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Development WHAT IS DEVELOPMENT?

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lumni, trustees, corporators, faculty, staff, parents, and friends of Lyndon Institute have a tremendous, positive impact on the life of the campus in many different ways. Their financial support through charitable gifts provides the margin of excellence that facilitates our service to our students and the community.

The generosity of our donors has enabled LI to offer courses and experiences that would not be possible with tax dollars alone.

The Development Office provides leadership for encouraging private support from alumni and friends, corporations, and foundations to advance the school.

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The new sports banners installed in Alumni Gym

WHAT ARE SOME DIFFERENT GIFTING OPPORTUNITIES? The Independence Fund is the school’s fundraising priority and it supports all aspects of our mission. Gifts to the Independence Fund provide Lyndon Institute with the resources to enrich our learning environment and to underwrite faculty professional development, curricular and program enhancements, special events and activities (including field trips, athletics, and arts programs), technology, and facilities.

Binney Woods Lyndon Institute’s Nature Program on Burke Mountain. Phase 1 of the project consists of permitting, excavation and preliminary development of the land.

Projection System for the Auditorium and Elliott Memorial Library This would enable us to have lectures and demonstrate lessons to a larger audience – the entire student body in the auditorium space. Existing equipment is from the 1970’s.

Beautify LI Several areas on campus are in need of beautification. Each project consists of landscaping to include removal of overgrown plantings, replanting, mulching, refreshing of walkways, fences, painting, etc.

The Global Stewardship Scholarship This is an award established to assist students who wish to participate in school-sanctioned international or domestic trips but do not have the means to do so. For some students, the opportunity to travel outside of the Northeast Kingdom, only presents itself through LI. Sadly, some of these very students have not been able to partake in these learning opportunities due to lack of funding. This scholarship is awarded to candidates who meet the requirements for financial need with the understanding that they have to raise half of the funds necessary for the trip themselves.

ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

Headmaster Houck is pictured with LI student, Logan Larose and Lyndonville Rotary President, Tim O’Neill. Logan was competing in the annual Rotary speech contest. Headmaster Houck was the guest speaker at the weekly Rotarian meeting on February 18th where he spoke about community and LI’s current efforts to expand learning opportunities and integrate the students with the entire community.

AN UPDATE ON LI’S PROPERTY ON BURKE MOUNTAIN, BINNEY WOODS

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he Binney Woods Programming Committee has been established and initial meetings have resulted in a variety of ideas and perspectives from a wide array of constituents including: LI administrators, teachers and staff; trustees and corporators; representatives from the Northwoods Stewardship Center (NSC) as well as Kingdom Trails; parents and students.

IDEAS INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

– Using the property as an environmental extension of LI’s academic and leadership programs – Creating opportunities for service learning and sustainability

– Building an outdoor amphitheatre to welcome performing artists, guest lecturers, exhibits or workshops – Using the woods as a natural lab for studying climate change, especially in the portion of the property designated as “forever wild”

– Creating opportunities for students to embrace realworld applications as a part of their LI experience (maple sugaring, forestry management, renewable energy, for example) – Allowing use of the woods for weekend excursions and community events

To date resources have been used to plan, clear the land for access, conduct soil, water and septic tests, implement a forestry management plan and a recreational management plan, and survey the property.

SPRING 2015

MAKING ALUMNI CONNECTIONS WITH STUDENTS

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aving graduated from LI in 1993, Kathryn “Kathy” (Jackson) Smith has always been interested in the history of Lyndon Institute. Kathy said, “I feel that an important part of my job as a teacher is to instill school pride in my students and to insure they know and appreciate the many wonderful and successful alumni Lyndon Institute has had since its founding.”

This year during LI’s first January Term, a three week active learning opportunity for students, Jean Wheeler, Roxanne Courser, and Kathy offered a course entitled, LI’s Athletic and Academic Legacy. Students in the class paid respect to Lyndon Institute alumni by researching and writing biographies of individuals who have awards named in their honor. In this way, future generations of Vikings will better know and appreciate the wonderful accomplishments of LI’s alumni. They created a display that incorporates the biographies as well as a photograph for each award.

Given that J-Term was only three short weeks, they started with the first awards given on Honors Assembly night and subsequently each year they will continue to create more displays until everyone has been honored.

Prior to the start of the class, Kathy reached out to family members and/or contacts to extend invitations to meet with the students to share information, stories, and memories in order for the students to appropriately honor their loved ones.

13

INDEPENDENCE FUND UPDATE

T

hank you donors! We are so grateful for the support you have shared with our students and teachers. Contributors have committed more than half of our goal to date, this fiscal year. We installed new banners in the Alumni Gymnasium, completed landscape renewal projects with the plantings of several lilacs on campus, supported students with scholarships for international travel, and currently we are fundraising to turn the Vail Barn into a student center which will open in the Fall of 2015.

Rick Angell, Director of Resident Life welcoming students.

A LYNDON LUNAR NEW YEAR

O

n Friday, February 13th the entire community was invited to celebrate the Lunar New Year with Lyndon Institute students. The Lunar New Year is very important holiday in Asia, best described by dorm student Rita Bao, ’15, as “a combination of Thanksgiving and Christmas.”

A traditional Asian meal served in the cafeteria, began the evening for our residential students. Dinner was followed by a community gathering on the lower athletic fields, behind Campbell Dormitory. There was a bonfire, dessert and hot cocoa for everyone who attended and the evening culminated with a fireworks display launched from the lower fields at 8:00 pm.

The fireworks display was made possible by donations from the families of the international students and alumni of the LI international students program. Thank you to everyone who supported this special evening for community.

The impact your donations are having can be seen all over campus! On behalf of the entire Lyndon Institute community, thank you!

Every gift, regardless of size is important!

Melissa A. Hall, ’92 Director of Development

SILENT AUCTION TO BE OFFERED ONLINE

O

ur annual silent auction which has traditionally culminated at the Independence Fund Golf Tournament will now be available for bids online.

Adding the online component to the auction will enable us to reach potentially thousands of alumni and friends whereas in previous years we have been limited to the number of golf tournament participants. We are excited to be able to offer the event to our entire community and hope that you will take the opportunity to browse what we have available for bid and show your support.

Please check our website for the auction link which will be announced in April.

The pond located behind the Lyndon Institute main building was developed by T.N. Vail in what year? The answer is hidden within the pages of this issue of the Viking Voice. Have fun!

14

ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

Rodney and Jane Taylor with their grandchildren.

ALUMNI PROFILE: AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. RODNEY TAYLOR, ’64 WHEN DID YOU REALIZE YOU WOULD LIKE TO BECOME A DOCTOR AND MORE SPECIFICALLY A TRANSPLANT SURGEON? I attended Northeastern University for undergraduate school. I chose that option because I could use the cooperative education program to help pay for school.

I initially entered the College of Pharmacy because it offered potential opportunities for further growth. My first co-op job was at a small hospital in Stoughton, Mass.

I worked as a pharmacy tech in the hospital pharmacy.

Because of how co-op worked I wound up working there a total of six months. During that time I was able to appreciate the day to day workings of a hospital and to better appreciate the various roles. I also met my second career mentor; the hospital pharmacist Tony Middleton.

He was a very positive influence both on role and attitude and he encouraged me to be “all that I could be”. It was here that I decided I would pursue being a physician and changed my major to pre-med.

Medical school was the easiest school I had ever attended.

I did not have to work two jobs. My wife and I lived frugally and managed on her salary and loans. I was able to put all my energy into being a Medical student and do something I really enjoyed. It was during my third year of Med School that UVM did their first kidney transplant. I was on the Surgery clinical rotation at that time and was caught up in the whole process which was quite dramatic in terms of preparation and worry. At this time organ transplants in general were uncommon, kidneys were the primary organ transplanted and a busy program might do 25-30 per year. This was a high risk procedure with many possible complications and limited immunosuppression. I knew then that I wanted to do transplants as part of my career.

SPRING 2015

I have always felt that being able to attend a high school of the quality of LI made the rest of my career possible.

YOU HAVE RECEIVED SEVERAL HONORS, ONE BEING BEST DOCTORS IN AMERICA 2001-2015. WHAT DOES RECEIVING SUCH AN HONOR MEAN TO YOU? Being elected as a Best Doctor in America means peer recognition. The mechanism of selection involves being voted in by your peers already selected. In my case I was selected by transplant physicians that includes surgeons, nephrologists etc.

Over my career in transplantation I did both kidney and pancreas transplants. In total I did over 1500 organ transplants and took care of more than 3000 transplanted patients as part of a team of transplant physicians. I was involved in hundreds of organ recovery surgeries involving deceased donors and also living donors. I often did the living donor operation and went next door to do the recipient operation. I have done children as young as 10 months and adults well into their 70’s. We experienced tremendous growth in organ transplants in the early 80’s because of improved immunosuppression and were getting routinely one year graft survivals over 90% and patient survivals over 95%. I spent my career in Academic Medicine teaching students, Residents and Fellows and that experience was the most rewarding.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST MEMORY OF LI?

There were many things that I enjoyed but the most memorable for me was probably the Honors Convocation my senior year. The recognition that I received then exceeded my expectations and reinforced my self confidence.

WAS THERE A TEACHER WHO HAD A GREAT IMPACT ON YOUR LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT LI?

Donald Erskine was my first career mentor. He taught Chemistry and Physics and was the first person at LI to encourage me to be more. He accepted me into the Advanced Chemistry and Physics classes and did a great deal to improve my self-worth as a student. Having a mentor like Mr. Erskine in my high school experience was critical.

15

LYNDON INSTITUTE BOARD OF ALUMNI TRUSTEES PRESIDENT

Michel Sanderson Richards, ’71 (16) VICE PRESIDENT

Paula Graves Gaskin, ’71 (14) TREASURER

Jeffrey O’Meara, ’04 (15)

CLERK OF THE CORPORATION

Heather Root Wheeler, ’90 (14) Candace E. Dane, ’74 (14) Robert G. Heath, ’58 (14) Timothy L. Kirchoff, ’96 (15) Michael D. Matteis, ’89 (16) Kathy Jackson Smith, ’93 (15) Daniel B. Thompson, ’87 (15) Paul E. Wheeler, ’74 (14) LIFETIME MEMBERS

Dwight A. Davis, ’50 Gertrude Angell Grant, ’49 Norman A. Legge, ’56 Shirley Beane Pierce, ’53 MEMBER AT LARGE

Lindsay Jones Carpenter, ’02 LYNDON INSTITUTE ALUMNI NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTORS

Melissa Boulay Hall, ’92 Daren M. Houck Steve Legge Mary Ellen “Mel” Reis Michel Sanderson Richards, ’71 Heather Root Wheeler, ’90 T. Michael Flynn LYNDON INSTITUTE ALUMNI NEWSLETTER PHOTOGRAPHY

Sonya Boulay Carr ’89 Keith Chamberlin Steve Legge Mary Ellen “Mel” Reis

Greetings,

From the LIAA President Michel S. Richards, ’71

Time is passing quickly but it seems as if the snow and cold is not. As I write this the weather report says it is going to “warm up” to freezing today – and I’m excited?!?

Does it help to know that the first day of spring (or should I say mud season) is less than a month away? Sorry, thought it was worth a try.

On a more upbeat note let me remind you of Alumni Weekend on May 29, 30 and 31. We are expecting 14 different classes to be meeting that weekend, however everyone is invited to any and all events. It does not have to be your reunion year to participate; bring your family and enjoy. We continue to improve the scheduling and events based on alumni feedback. Your feedback is appreciated so keep it coming. This weekend belongs to everyone. Please review the schedule that is included in this issue and mark your calendars. There is plenty to do from the golf tournament starting on Friday, the All Class Social that evening, the various events and alumni and family cookout on campus and class gatherings on Saturday, all coming to a close on Sunday morning with the alumni breakfast and Annual Meeting in the cafeteria. The rest of Sunday will be honoring our graduating Class of 2105, who will then become our newest alums!

A few accomplishments I would like to highlight is that for last year’s graduating class we awarded seven higher education/certification scholarships to 19 recipients for a total of $6,750. The Board was especially pleased to meet one of our goals to extend financial assistance to currently enrolled students for educational opportunities. We were able to provide $1,000 each to six students to attend the technical education competition, Skills USA. Thank you to all of the Board members for giving so generously of your time and efforts to make all of the various alumni events throughout the year such successes.

Everyone brings individual talents, that when put together, does amazing work. To all alumni, please know that you are welcome to attend any of our Board meetings. We would love to see you.

Last but definitely not least, the Board is delighted to welcome Lindsay Jones Carpenter, ’02, as our newest member fulfilling the role of Member-at-Large. Lindsay is a welcome addition and brings great enthusiasm to an already amazing Board.

See you at Alumni Weekend!

Blessings,

Mickey Sanderson Richards, ’71

Alumni Weekend Schedule of Events May 29th to May 31st, 2015 ALL EVE NT

Friday, May 29th 1:00 p.m.

6 to 11:00 p.m.

S are open t o LI Comm the unity

LI INDEPENDENCE FUND GOLF TOURNAMENT Join alumni, friends and the LI Community for an afternoon at the St. Johnsbury Country Club.

Contact: Ryan Noyes rnoyes@vhb.com 802 427-1205.

7TH ANNUAL ALL CLASS SOCIAL The event will be held at the Sherburne Base Lodge at Burke Mountain.

Kick off the weekend with dancing and a cash bar.

Saturday, May 30th 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.

8:30 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

9:45 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

TIM SIMPSON MEMORIAL 5K FUN RUN/WALK REGISTRATION You may register until race time. T-shirts are guaranteed for those who registered by May 12th.

All proceeds benefit the LI Independence Fund.

KIDS FUN RUN Two laps on the Bob Heath Track for ages 12 and under.

5K RUN/WALK STARTS

VIKING PENTATHALON BEGINS Registration is 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.

A new twist on the alumni track meet which includes five events: Javelin, Shot, Discus, 100m and Long Jump.

This is a free event and it is not required that you compete in all five events.

VISIT THE ALUMNI CENTER Join us at The Norma Gordon Austin Alumni Center and Museum at Thompson Cottage.

VETERAN’S MEMORIAL AT SANBORN HALL Commemorative plaques have been placed on the walls of the rotunda.

GROUP TOURS of LI CAMPUS Tours start at the Alumni Center, call the Alumni Office for an appointment by May 23rd.

7TH ANNUAL ALUMNI CO-ED SOFTBALL GAME Register at the Patrick Brown Softball Field

SOCIAL HOUR BEFORE THE ALUMNI COOKOUT Join us under the graduation tent on Robert K. Lewis Field, for beverages and light appetizers.

ALUMNI COOKOUT Food will be served at 1:00 p.m.

RSVP by contacting the Alumni Office by May 12th.

The charge for the cookout is $5 per person or $10 per family.

Sunday, May 31st 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

15TH ANNUAL ALUMNI BREAKFAST LI Dining Hall in the Pierce Wing on Darling Campus RSVP by contacting the Alumni Office by May 12th.

BACCALAUREATE LI Alumni Auditorium

CLASS OF 2015 COMMENCEMENT Robert K. Lewis Field

LI Alumni Office | PO Box 135 | Lyndon Center, VT 05850 | heather.wheeler@lyndoninstitute.org | 802 626-9096 SPRING 2015

17

Class Notes

Royer brothers Justin, Jordan, and Joseph with Jaxson, Kensley and Maxwell the newest additions to the Royer family.

The Alumni Association invites all of our alumni to Reunion Weekend.

The classes ending in 0’s and 5’s will be celebrating their reunions on May 30, 2015.

Join Lyndon Institute Alumni on facebook for updates on the weekend activities.

1964

Eleanor “Podgie” Blair Weissent dancing at her 75th reunion in 2014

1939

Eleanor “Podgie” Blair Weissent, of Walpole MA, was truly happy and very thankful to attend her 75th reunion in May of 2014. Podgie had a blast and was accompanied by her daughter, Sally and her husband, Bob Bullard.

18

Lauren “Joe” Welch has written and published a second novel. The Riverford Term is an adult work of fiction, about Charles Thurston, an amateur painter The and central character Riverford who is vulnerable Term, a novel written by and ill-prepared to Lauren “Joe” face the world alone Welch following the death of his mother, a woman whose abuse and exploitation of him he barely can acknowledge, he enrolls as a student at Riverford College, a tiny, thirdrate liberal arts school in northern Vermont. The Riverford Term, published by Dog Ear Publishing, is available locally at Green Mountain Books and Prints in Lyndonville; Amazon and Barnes & Noble, soon at laurenjoewelch.com; and in digital format, Google Editions.

1965

Excitement is growing for our celebration of 50 years since we all graduated. We have managed to make contact either by mail or phone with every single classmate. The response has been wonderful and looking forward to seeing everyone on May 30th. Our luncheon will be held on campus, in the LI dining hall.

Watch for updates as we get closer.

We are working on putting together a 50th “Yearbook”, available for our classmates at the reunion luncheon.

You should have already received a letter asking for “updated info” to be included in this yearbook and to place your order early, to be sure we have enough for everyone. Kermit and Carol Jarrosak Fisher have generously offered the use of their home just around the corner from the Outing Club, for a gathering Friday night May 29th, and Saturday, following our luncheon, for those who would like to ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

continue the reuniting of classmates.

A reservation letter will be sent out early April, for our luncheon and yearbooks. Watch your mail.

More info, contact Marion Drew Gray at 802-456-8862 or mgsutpl@ comcast.net and Linda McGregor Wheeler at 518-766-2644 or wheelerl@fairpoint.net.

The Lyndon Institute School Store!

The Lyndon Institute School Store is open 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. during regular school days.

Accommodations can be made for purchases after hours by calling the store at 626-9096.

1970

Sweatshirts, t-shirts and hats are always available and special orders can be made for our Viking fans.

Join your group on Facebook, Lyndon Institute Class of 1970 Reunion, for updates on your reunion.

STOP IN AND CHECK OUT OUR GEAR!

1975

Join your group on Facebook, Lyndon Institute Class of 1975 – 40th Reunion, for updates on your reunion.

1980

Join your group on Facebook, Lyndon Institute Class of 1980, for updates on your reunion.

1995

Join your group on Facebook, Lyndon Institute Class of 1995, for updates on your reunion.

1996

David Clagg earned his bachelor’s degree in Systems Technology. He has been promoted to Captain in the U.S. Army, and currently is undergoing special training at Quantico, Virginia.

David lives with his wife Beth, and children Bradley, and Annabelle.

1997 Tim Simpson, 2014 XC Coach of the Year

1981

Congratulations to Tim Simpson, of Dimondale, MI, as he was honored as the 2014 Cross Country Coach of the Year by the Michigan High School Athletic Association. Only one coach is awarded statewide.

1990

Join your group on Facebook, Lyndon Institute Class of 1990, for updates on your reunion.

SPRING 2015

The Doctor of Snow Hill, a novel written

by Leanne McKinley

Leanne Labor McKinley released a new book, The Doctor of Snow Hill, in December 2014. She has written other books and you can check them out on her newsletter leannemckinley. wordpress.com.

1998

Robin (Tanych) and Adam Bergeron, of Lyndonville, VT, were united in marriage on September 20, 2014.

Robin graduated from Champlain College in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work. She is employed by Vermont Superior Court in St. Johnsbury, VT. Thomas Clagg is working on a bachelor’s degree in Engineering. He works in research and development at Weidmann Electrical Technologies in St. Johnsbury and lives in St. Johnsbury, VT, with his wife Colby (Walker), ’ 05, and their three children Shelby, Tyson, and Sawyer.

Garrett Henderson and Crystal Bunnell of St. Johnsbury, VT, announce the birth of their son, Ryder Richard Henderson on October 24, 2014. He joins sister, Emma.

Michael Kane had a speaking part in a recent movie, The Judge, starring, Robert Downy Jr., and Robert Duvall; he starred as Juror #7.

Nathan Phelps and wife, Laurie, of Hardwick, VT, announce the birth of their son, Colin William Phelps on October 29, 2014. He joins sister, Leah.

19

1999

Justin Royer and Miranda Weeks, ’04, of Lyndonville, VT, announce the birth of their son, Jaxon Gary Royer on September 15, 2014. He joins sisters, Jaydin and Jenna. (see page 18 for photo)

2000

Join your group on Facebook, Lyndon Institute Class of 2000, for updates on your reunion.

Shauna (Brittell) and Al Barrett of West Burke, VT, announce the birth of their daughter, Ava Lee Barrett on October 27, 2014. She joins brothers, Colby and Cameron, and sister, Jasmine.

The Vermont Game Warden force is very small and three of the current wardens are LI alumni, Randy Hazard, ’05, David Gregory, ’85, and Cody Jackman, ’09. Warden Gregory is the Commanding LT of the Northeast District (NEK)

Jennifer Heroux and Chris Bachand were united in marriage on September 20, 2014.

Adam Selzler and wife, Krista of Spokane WA, announce the birth of their daughter, Zoe Scarlett in September 2014. She joins a brother, Mason. Krista is an English teacher and Adam completed his nursing training in 2013 and he is working at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane.

Andrew Miller-Brown’s son, Arthur

Andrew Miller-Brown and wife, Angela, of Burke, VT, announce the birth of their son, Arthur Clemente Miller-Brown, on October 6, 2014.

Joseph Royer and wife Dee, announce the birth of their son, Maxwell Graham Royer on September 4, 2014. Joe and his family have been living in Hawaii but will soon be moving to New Jersey. (see page 18 for photo)

Atti Seguin and wife, Vanessa, of Wheelock, VT, announce the birth of their daughter, Natalie Cynthia Seguin on December 3, 2014.

2001

Sonya (Pearson) and Jessie Hazen, ’02, of Burke, VT, announce the birth of their daughter, Evalynne Mary-May Hazen on December 30, 2014. She joins a brother, Geno Danis, III.

20

on the Vermont Realtor Education committee in Montpelier. Nikki currently works as a Real Estate Broker with StoneCrest Properties in Lyndonville, VT. She and her husband, Scott Peters, ’91, live in Burke, VT.

Mary (Hever) Jardine, Hall of Famer, at St. Lawrence University

Mary (Hever) Jardine was inducted, along with the 2001-2002 women’s basketball team, into the St. Lawrence University’s Athletic Hall of Fame on October 25, 2014.

Nikki (Ste. Marie) Peters was recognized for her efforts in the Real Estate industry by the NEK Board of Realtors as Realtor of the Year in 2014. Nikki has served on the board for 4 years, most recently as the 2014 Board President. She is a member of the Green Mt Association of Realtors as Ex-Officio and serves

Nikki (Ste. Marie) Peters

ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

ALUMNI PROFILE: AN INTERVIEW WITH KHASHAYAR HONARKHAH, ’79 IN SEPTEMBER, 1977, a group of about twenty five students from Iran arrived at Sanborn Hall ready to begin their American educational experience. These students, all boys, were sons of Iranian Oil Company executives or of Iranian military officers. Both groups were, of course, part of the infrastructure of the government of the Shah of Iran.

There were very faint rumblings of unrest in Iran in 1977 but virtually no one thought it would lead to the stunning revolution the following year, the abdication of the Shah,and the seizure of sixty-six American hostages, all during the latter half of Jimmy Carter’s presidency.

Ayatollah Khomeni became a name everyone worldwide would come to know as he led an extreme clerical faction that seized power in Iran, held those hostages for 444 days, and held power for the remainder of the last century. Indeed, Khomeni’s successors remain firmly in control of Iran even today.

For LI’s Iranian students the revolution presented grave problems. Many of their parents and relatives were in great peril as the clerical fanatics began to cleanse Iran of those who were an integral part of the Shah’s regime.

Sadly, many did not survive. Some LI Iranian students did return to their native country having no real alternative and the fate of some is still unknown given the turmoil there.

A far happier outcome was in store for Kashayer Honarkhah, one of those able to remain at LI and in the United States. Kashi, as he was called, embraced the elements of education we today call S.T.E.M.(science, technology, engineering and math). His success in the rigorous classes he took at LI led to his acceptance at the University of Cincinnati where he completed his degree and was later hired by Chrysler Motors.

Kashi has had an exciting career at Chrysler in a variety of positions. He recently got in touch with Jerry Leonard, current CNC instructor at LI with whom he became friends in 1978 and explained his current work.

so my team (six designers, one program manager, and two engineers) got the task of coming up with customization ideas for every new model and brand as well as updating all the current vehicles. This became a monumental task and ten hour days, six day weeks became the usual.”

Kashi related that even as a youth he loved cars and knew someday he wanted a job in the field. He initially enrolled at Cincinnati in mechanical engineering but found he really liked the aesthetic aspect of cars so he switched his major to Industrial Design/Transportation Design.

He has patented several automotive ideas through Chrysler and was part of a team that designed the Dodge Charger Hellcat featuring a 707 horsepower engine delivering a top end 204 mph. The Hellcat was rated #3 in a top ten list of exceptional cars.

Kashi is grateful for his LI education and recalls many former teachers, like Tim Simpson, with great fondness.

He has found a way to give back: Kashi said, “On a few occasions, I’ve had the opportunity to sponsor projects through my work, both at Cincinnati and the College for Creative Studies here in Detroit. Chrysler sponsors semester projects at other colleges and universities too and feel it to be a productive way to cultivate new talent and potential future employees. We also offer summer internships which has been an ongoing part of my career for the last several years. I enjoy working with young people who are eager to learn and take pride in their work.

It is very rewarding to see them mature as they gain experience.”

Recently Kashi was in Maine on vacation and took an afternoon drive to LI. He noted the new Sanborn Hall that replaced his dormitory but also noted that much of the campus remained familiar and brought a rush of good memories. The only downside of his trip? He was not driving the Hellcat.

Kashi said, “Recently I was assigned to work with the Mopar group. The top leadership of the company decided to make the accessories division within Mopar “factory made” rather than aftermarket products SPRING 2015

21

2002

Heather Pulver-Gaillard and Philip Batalion Meagan (Newland) and Spencer Howard

Meagan (Newland) and Spencer Howard, were united in marriage on October 4, 2014. Meagan is a 2006 graduate of St. Michael’s College, with a B.S. in Business Administration and Accounting and minor in Finance. She received her CPA licensure in 2010 and is now the Controller at Lyndon Institute. After the honeymoon in Playa Mujeres, Mexico, the couple resides in their newly constructed home in Hardwick, VT with their newest addition Burklee Memphis Howard (their puppy).

Heather Pulver-Gaillard and Philip Batalion of Burlington VT, were united in marriage on August 31, 2014 in Greensboro Vermont. Rachel LaCasse, ’02, was her maid of honor.

Kaili Williamson and Dale Brown of Spoffard, NH, announce the birth of their daughter Rylee Ann Brown on March 29, 2014. She joins brothers, Justin and Cameron.

2004

Brittany Fraser and Josh Drummond, ’97, of Lyndonville, VT, announce the birth of their son, Oliver Robert Drummond on December 14, 2014. He joins sisters, Ardriana and Starlyn.

Kelly (Wentworth) and Jerett Turnbaugh, ’03, of Lyndonville, VT, announce the birth of their daughter, Vivian Victoria Turnbaugh on October 13, 2014. She joins sister, Zoe.

2003 Rachel LaCasse and Roger Ford

Rachel LaCasse and Roger Ford are getting married September 26, 2015 in Virginia and Heather PulverGaillard, ’02, will be a bridesmaid.

Rachel and Roger just bought their first house in Revere, MA so they will be staying around New England.

22

Kathryn Bennett and Chris Davis of Lyndonville, VT, announce the birth of their daughter, Tenley Rose Davis on January 11, 2015. She joins brother, Mason McKeon.

Jordan Royer and Angela Metropoulos of Shelburne, VT, announce the birth of their daughter, Kensley Metropoulos Royer on June 2, 2014. She joins a brother, Kayden Metropoulos. (see page 18 for photo)

Sara (Wheeler) and Jonas Steele

Sara (Wheeler) and Jonas Steele were united in marriage on October 18, 2014. Sara is a self-employed, hairstylist at Vanessa’s Salon in West Lebanon, NH. The couple resides in Weathersfield, VT.

Heather Switser and Michael Sherburne of Lyndonville, VT, announce the birth of their son, Cody Michael Sherburne on February 6, 2015. He joins brothers, Korbin Eynon and Connor Sherburne.

Local entrepreneurs, Matt Wells, ’03 and John Shanks, ’04, opened a 24 hour key-card fitness club called Fitness Unbound at the Green Mountain Mall in St. Johnsbury, VT. A facility, which is full of new exercise ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

equipment including treadmills equipped with television sets. As of February 6, 2015 the fitness club already had 600 members.

2005

Join your group on Facebook, Lyndon Institute Class of 2005, for updates on your reunion.

Chris Hertz and Emma Weisser were united in marriage on September 13, 2014.

2006

Daniel Sawhill and Abadon Bayramova were united in marriage on July 5, 2014.

2007

Abigail Raymond and her husband Christopher Scheaffer, surrounded by her family, Lori Raymond, Chris Raymond and Wil Raymond, ’10

Abigail Raymond and Christopher Schaeffer were united in marriage on September 27, 2014 in Chadds Ford, PA. They currently live in Philadelphia, PA where Chris is pursuing a PhD at Temple University and Abby works in clinical data management.

2009

Kimberley Grenier and Joel Roberts of St. Johnsbury, VT, announce the birth of their daughter, Brooklyn Grace Roberts on December 12, 2014.

SPRING 2015

Join your group on Facebook, Lyndon Institute Class of 2010, for updates on your reunion.

2011

Misty Bell and Daniel Marchbanks of St. Johnsbury, VT, announce the birth of their daughter, Aubree Marie Marchbanks on October 13, 2014. She joins a sister, Sophia.

Rebecca Mello and Adam Dillon of North Troy, VT, announce the birth of their daughter, Maci Rae Dillon on January 1, 2015. Maci was the first baby born of the New Year at North Country Hospital.

Monica (Aldrich) and George Chamberlain

Monica (Aldrich) and George N. Chamberlain were united in marriage on June 29, 2013. George is from Oriskany Falls, NY and attended Madison Central School. He is a partner of GMC Construction along with GNC Custom Designs. The couple met at Cazenovia College five years ago and for last two years Monica has been employed at Hamilton Central School, where she teaches 6th grade, in Hamilton, NY. Monica is currently in her last semester at Utica College, earning a master’s degree in Special Education.

2010

2014 Rebecca Lane Sanderson, daughter of Elizabeth Sanderson

Elizabeth Sanderson of Lyndonville, VT, announces the birth of her daughter, Rebecca Lane Sanderson on October 8, 2014.

Nykea Williams continues to be successful in East Coast Snocross.

Currently she is seated first in the Pro Women’s Class and sixth in the Men’s Sport Class. On February 7th, she took 2nd place at the US Nationals in the Pro Women’s Class in Salamanca, NY, where East Coast Snocross racers meet the rest of the country for a once a year championship. Most racers are from the upper mid-west and Canada.

The racer who took first was from Sweden.

Elizabeth (Bohan) and Dilyn Switser, ’13, of Lyndonville, VT, announce the birth of their son, Thomas Brown Switser on January 6, 2015.

Nykea Williams on top of the podium at the Snocross Races in Turin, NY, on February 1, 2015

23

In Memoriam

It is with sorrow that the Alumni Association records the deaths of the following alumni.

We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of these individuals.

24

Russell A. Wilson, ’39, of Lyndonville, VT, on January 8, 2015.

Marjorie Deblois Blake, ’42, of West Burke, VT, on January 22, 2015.

Laura Batchelder Drown, ’43, of Burke Hollow, VT, on February 12, 2015.

Lloyd P. “Toby” Munger, ’48, of Lyndon, VT, on February 2, 2015.

Phyllis Fogg Wright, ’49, of Tucson, AZ, on November 3, 2014.

Bonnie Greenwood Greene, ’49, of Montpelier, VT, on September 5, 2014.

Linwood R. Pierce, ’50, of Lyndonville, VT, on November 11, 2014.

Gladys Baird Aldrich, ’51, of Garland, TX, on December 18, 2014.

Joanne Parker Webster, ’52, of Oakdale, CT, on September 30, 2014.

Alfred C. Cole, Jr., ’54, of Lyndonville, VT, on November 14, 2014.

Priscilla Fogg Smith, ’54, of Tucson, AZ, in November 2014.

Thomas I. Edney, ’57, of Barnet, VT, on January 8, 2015.

James S. Astle, ’59, of Portsmouth, NH, on November 11, 2014.

Ralph B. Devereaux, ’59, of Lyndonville, VT, on January 6, 2015.

David F. Quinlan, ’60, of North Yarmouth, ME, on July 1, 2014.

ALUMNI NEWSLETTER

Bruce H. Smith, ’61, of Lyndonville, VT, on January 14, 2015.

Alexander “Stephen” Pearl, ’65, of Newington, CT, on December 18, 2003.

Althea Carr Blair, ’65, of Island Pond, VT, on December 11, 2014.

Harold W. Powers, ’65, of Sutton, VT, on May 3, 2013.

Kenneth E. Nutting, ’66, of Lyndonville, VT, on March 18, 2013.

Milton W. Norway, ’70, of Sheffield, VT, on December 27, 2014.

David W. Norrie, ’76, of St. Johnsbury Center, VT, on January 7, 2015.

Keith E. Allard, ’77, of East Burke, VT, on November 19, 2014.

Richard D. Durocher, ’79, of Vero Beach, FL, on October 22, 2014.

Stacy McCormick Spencer, ’95, of Sutton, VT, on November 3, 2014.

FORMER FACULTY:

Brian S. Ronan, Jr., ’10, of Concord, NC, on December 1, 2014.

Maybell R. Peck of St. Johnsbury, VT, on January 30, 2015. Ms. Peck taught Business classes at LI from 1947-1949.

Robert McCoubrie of Rosemount, MN, on December 30, 2014. Mr. McCoubrie taught Mathematics at LI from 1969-1982. He was a skilled canoeist in the Canadian Far North and was a secondary school teacher for 30 years.

Alumni and friends desiring more complete information or a copy of an obituary can contact the alumni office at 802 626-9096.

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Trivia answer. The pond located behind LI’s main building was developed by T.N. Vail in the year 1909.