Crimson Magazine Spring 2026

Spring 2026

Mor r istown Beard School M agazine

Ryan Liese New Head of School

SENIOR CIRCLE:

Reflections from Members of the Class of 2026

A PURPOSEFUL PAUSE: Art & Design Faculty Member Returns from Sabbatical

2 Remarks from the Head of School 4 Meet MBS’s Next Head of School 8 New and Familiar Faces in New Places 12 MBS Moments

23 Senior Circle

46 Crimson Corner

26 Cultivating Curiosity with Advanced Topics

54 Powerfully Prepared

28 The Purposeful Pause

61 Class Notes

31 Stories of Excellence in Teaching & Learning 39 Beyond the Classroom

56 Alumni Moments 65 In Memoriam

Crimson Spring 2026

The Class of 2026 celebrates their college decisions and the end of the school year at the Senior BBQ. Cover Photo by Joshua Christie

REMARKS FROM THE INTERIM HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear MBS Community, It is with mixed emotions that I write this letter. As the year draws to a close, I am excited to begin this next chapter of my life. Having delayed my retirement twice, I am eager for it to begin! However, the past 8 years at MBS have been more fulfilling than I could have ever imagined. MBS has truly been a second home for me and so many of the people here feel like family. I am so grateful to have been part of this community and so proud to have had the opportunity to lead it.

While it may sound cliched to say that MBS students are different from students at our peer schools, no one can convince me otherwise. Whether I was teaching them in the classroom, observing them with their classmates in the Student Center, or just passing them in the hallway, what I experienced was a consistently kind, grateful, engaged and supportive group of students.

I could not have done this job without the unwavering support of our parent/guardian community. I have experienced this in so many ways: the incredible team effort that goes into the PA Spring Benefit, the way that parents and guardians show up and contribute during Faculty & Staff Appreciation Week, and those who act as ambassadors for Admissions events, just to name a few. I am deeply appreciative of the way that our parents and guardians work in partnership with the School to ensure the best possible student experience.

student is not something you can ever be prepared for, and it is with a heavy heart that we continue to mourn Mateo’s loss. I am grateful to our community for coming together to support each other and our students in the darkest of times.

I am beyond thrilled to be handing the reins over to Ryan Liese P’31.

Having such a strong successor makes it much easier for me to leave knowing that the School I love is in such capable hands. Ryan served as the Associate Head of School this year, in addition to his role as Head of Upper School, and he has been a valued partner. We both share a deep love for the School and its mission. Whenever I was at a loss for how to handle a challenging situation, I could always count on Ryan to bring a level head and a well thought out solution. I know that MBS will continue to thrive under his leadership. And, of course, Ryan will have the support of our outstanding Senior Leadership Team. I am so thankful for their expertise, collaboration and support this year.

Although I am leaving this position, I expect to continue to be engaged with MBS, although in a much more limited capacity. I will miss the daily interactions with the students, the faculty and staff and the parent/guardian community, all of whom have had a significant impact on my life. MBS has meant so much to me and to my family. I will forever be grateful.

And of course, our faculty and staff are simply unmatched. For so many of the people working here, this is a calling, not just a job. They put love and care into everything they do and the results speak for themselves. Watching the impact they have on our students is truly inspiring.

Warmly,

This year was not without its challenges as our School community mourned the loss of a student, Mateo Kauffman Sandler ’28. The tragic loss of a

Philicia G. Levinson P’19 Interim Head of School

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Spring 2026

Office of Advancement

Board of Trustees 2025-2026

Chief Advancement Officer Betsy B. Patterson P’14, ’16

OFFICERS

Executive Assistant to the Chief Advancement Officer Linda Riedell Director of Marketing & Communications Crimson Managing Editor Brynn Campbell Design Manager Crimson Graphic Designer Sharon Cain Marketing and Communications Coordinator Joshua Christie Digital Marketing Manager Brad Hickey Director of Alumni Engagement & Annual Giving Stacy Albanese Advancement Services Manager Melissa Hickey Assistant Director of Annual Giving Bridget Monaghan ’19 Research Analyst Maggie Ranger ’10 Director of Special Events & Parents Association Liaison Kerianne Skobo-Trought

Michael Morais P’22, ’24, ’26, President Darnell T. Parker ’00, Vice President Lee Kellogg Sadrian ’89, P’26, ’28, Vice President Laurence H. Sherman P’20, ’22, ’26, Vice President R. Cartwright Wallace ’93, P’28, ’31 Treasurer Pamela Nelson Davidson ’90, Secretary TRUSTEES Philicia G. Levinson P’19, Interim Head of School Andrew Brucker ’93, P’24, ’26, ’29 Mary Ellen Campbell P’72, ’78 (Honorary) Alexandra Carter P’29 Ravi Chopra ’97 Lissa Jean Ferrell P’22 Shanae M. Green P’27 David V. H. Hedley ’64, P’87, ’90, ’97 (Honorary) Alexander D. Ranger ’13 Michael W. Ranger P’10, ’13 (Honorary) Bruce Sanford P’16, ’20 Marlynn Scully P’87, ’92, GP ’20, ’22 (Honorary) Carisa V. Strauss P’20, ’22, ’24 Scott J. Tannen ’95, P’22, ’25, ’25 Jennie Tinkelman P’22, ’24

Senior Leadership Team Philicia G. Levinson P’19 Interim Head of School

Contributing Writers Stacy Albanese, Joshua Christie, Scott Greene, Brad Hickey, Kate Sheleg Muttick ’97, Mia Rubin ’26, Carol Selman ’64

Darren Burns P’19, ’22 Chief Innovation Officer

Photography Stacy Albanese, Brynn Campbell, Vincent Carchietta (MCV Photography), Joshua Christie, Audrey Eapen Photos, Scott Greene, Brad Hickey, Highpoint Pictures, Steve Jones, Jopofoto, Kathryn Mckeever Photography, Bridget Monaghan ’19, Tiffany Zuber

Ryan Liese P’31 Associate Head of School & Head of Upper School

Alonda Casselle P’27, ’30 Head of Middle School

Boni Luna Dean of Faculty Robert L. Mitchell II P’15, ’20, ’23 Director of Enrollment Management

Update Your Contact Info To update your mailing address or other contact information, scan the QR code or visit www.mbs.net/update.

Crimson Available Online If you would prefer to receive a digital copy of our next issue instead of a printed copy mailed to your home address, scan the QR code to complete your request. All issues of Crimson magazine are available on the MBS website under About > Publications.

Betsy B. Patterson P’14, ’16 Chief Advancement Officer Media Contact Brynn Campbell Matthew Whitford Director of Marketing & Communications Chief Financial & Operating Officer 973-532-7580 • bcampbell@mbs.net

Printed locally by Intellicor Communications on recycled & sustainably-sourced paper

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Meet MBS’s Next Head of School:

Ryan Liese P’31 The incoming Head of School reflects on family, leadership, and why Morristown Beard felt like home from the very beginning.

By BRYNN CAMPBELL Director of Marketing and Communications

When introducing Morristown Beard School’s next Head of School, it seems a little odd to begin with a story of how he met his wife, Nikki.

But, for Ryan Liese P’31, his journey from high school sophomore to leader of a prominent independent school, is as much a professional experience as it is a family one.

Ryan met Nikki in a sophomore year history class, when her family moved to town. They attended prom together, dated through college, and when they both earned their teaching certifications, decided to move to be closer to her parents, who at that time, were living in Northern Alabama. Little did they know that as they were finishing up their honeymoon and packing their final bags for the move, Nikki’s parents would be moving again. Since the newlyweds already had jobs lined up they decided they would stick to the plan and they headed south.

For twelve years they worked at Randolph School in Huntsville, Alabama. Having joined the Randolph faculty as an Upper School History teacher and baseball coach in 2008, Ryan quickly earned the respect of his colleagues for his student-centered approach, relational strengths, strong organizational skills, and great integrity. His trajectory within Randolph was rapid. He was appointed as a senior faculty advisor to the Honor Council only a year after arriving at Randolph, working with students and faculty to deepen the community of trust within the School. In 2012, Ryan was appointed Dean of the 9th and 10th Grades, serving as an advocate for students as they began their Upper School experience. Two years later, he was named Head of Upper School.

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After his daughter, Hannah ’31, was born (note: her birth was announced at a Randolph football game!), the draw to come back East, closer to family, became stronger. Ryan earned his Masters of Education in Independent School Leadership from Vanderbilt University in 2017, and began looking for opportunities.

However, he was not going to make the move unless it was the perfect fit, not just for him, but for his family, too.

Ryan and Nikki recreating their prom photo

Ryan and Nikki at prom

Ryan, Nikki and Hannah Liese ’31

When the position of Head of Upper School at Morristown Beard presented itself in 2019, he began with a search of the website. It was there he saw the MBS Values: Personal Responsibility, Awareness of Diverse Perspectives, Engagement, Tenacity, Independence of Mind, and Humor & Humility. The final one stopped him in his tracks: Humor & Humility. “You don’t see that on many other schools’ sites,” Ryan said. An avid Yankees fan, this brought him back to one of his favorite Yogi Berra quotes, “It ain't the heat, it's the humility". It struck him that years earlier, he completed one of his final papers for his graduate degree on humility. As he dug deeper, he realized that he also went to graduate school with Alexa Caldwell, the daughter of Peter Caldwell, the MBS Head of School at the time. Things were aligning, but, it was not until Ryan stepped on campus for his interview that he knew that he had found the perfect fit.

“There was a vibration on campus,” Ryan said. When asked to describe that in more detail, he smiled. “I fully recognize that the comparison I’m about to make is not on the same level, but I’ll go with it,” he laughed. “It was kind of like when Nikki walked into Mr. Moger’s history class and there were two open seats and she picked the one closest to me. Or when Hannah was born and they put her on my chest. It was just right.” He continued, “It was so exciting. I was being hit with so much emotion and I wasn’t sure exactly what I was going to do with it or exactly how I was going to handle any of it, but I knew I would figure it out and it would be amazing. There was so much possibility.”

The Liese family transitioned to North Jersey during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Their “goodbyes” in Alabama were drive-bys, and they headed northeast, where they spent months together—just the three of them—7 year-old Hannah, Nikki and Ryan. “There were a lot of bike rides!” Ryan remembers.

Luckily, the three were used to being together. “There have only been two years

Academic Resume ● Central Connecticut State University,

BS, Secondary Education and Teaching ● Vanderbilt University, Masters Degree,

Independent School Leadership ● Randolph School, Huntsville, Alabama ■ History Teacher ■ Dean of the 9th & 10th Grades ■ Head of Upper School ● Morristown Beard School ■ Head of Upper School ■ Associate Head of School

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where Nikki and I have not worked at the same school. During my first two years at MBS she worked at The Red Oaks School (Morristown, NJ), and Hannah went to school there, too.” Nikki began her time as Dean of Middle School Students at MBS in 2022 and Hannah followed when she entered 6th grade in 2024.

Education and family are woven together for the Lieses and the schools where the three have been together are an extension of their family.

“Having someone [Nikki] who understands the commitment that it takes to do what needs to be done to create the environment like the one we have at MBS is a gift. Having Hannah here with us these past few years has been so affirming to me as a parent and as someone who works at the School. I now see the product of the amazing work that our teachers and coaches do beyond just the school day. I see how her connection to a school which shares our values has helped her discover and explore her passions with confidence.”

The support that Ryan receives from his family is something that he has always strived to extend to the people he is with every day—the faculty, staff, and students —regardless of where he has worked. “I see my role as being one to help guide those with whom I work to continue to make sure that those who deliver our mission on a daily basis—our faculty and coaches—have the support and resources which they need. That allows our students to have the experience which we know is second to none, which only goes to strengthen our School as a whole.”

were unafraid to push themselves and each other to make their teaching practice more dynamic and more meaningful to the students, and that MBS students were provided with every opportunity to find that meaning on their own terms. He vows that he will continue to look for ways to create the environment for faculty, staff and students to explore and discover what is possible for them.

For Ryan, MBS has not just been “A Place of Possibilities" for his colleagues and the students he has interacted with, but for himself personally. “I think the most effective leaders must understand the experiences of those who they lead and those who are impacted by their decisions, and the past six years have afforded me the opportunity to gain that insight.”

A self pro-claimed “place person, not a position person”, Ryan and his family have found a home at MBS. “I want to be at a place where I feel supported and where I can support people. I’ve worked hard to develop relationships to help people trust my intentions and know that my values align with the School’s values.”

As Ryan steps into his role as Head of School, he brings with him that rare blend of serious dedication and heartfelt humility. For the Liese family, the next chapter at Morristown Beard School isn't just a new position—it’s the natural continuation of a journey that began in a sophomore classroom years ago. With his family by his side and a profound respect for the MBS mission, the future looks bright, balanced, and full of possibility.

What struck him about the School very early in his tenure was that the adults

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Building the Framework for Our Future Morristown Beard School is pleased to welcome Matthew Whitford as its Chief Financial and Operating Officer. Matt joins the MBS community with extensive experience in financial leadership and governance, most recently serving as Chief Financial and Operations Officer for a New Jersey public school district.

Matt Whitford

Chief Financial and Operating Officer Matt’s path to the business office actually began through coaching. A former Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), he coached at both the Division III college and high school levels. “That experience shaped my commitment to supporting others in their pursuit of growth, no matter what their goals may be,” he says.

Holding certifications as a School Business Administrator and Chief School Administrator, he also serves as a member of the North Caldwell Board of Education. This dual perspective informs his approach to leadership at MBS, where he combines a deep appreciation for fiduciary responsibility and effective governance with the importance of building strong partnerships between trustees and school leadership.

What stood out to me about the independent “school model, and specifically Morristown Beard School, is the ability to be intentional and mission-centered in how we serve students.

”

Having helped lead public school districts ranked among the top in the state, Matt found himself drawn to the independent school model. “I found myself increasingly drawn to an environment where decisionmaking is more directly aligned to a school’s mission and community, rather than driven by state and federal mandates,” Matt shares.

For Matt, this transition is also a personal one. Having attended an independent school himself, he credits the environment’s emphasis on executive functioning with shaping the person he is today. He sees those same foundational values embedded in the MBS experience, where the mission isn’t just an aspirational statement, but a set of lived qualities— like personal responsibility and tenacity—that prepare the community for success beyond the classroom.

When he’s not leading the School’s financial and operational functions, you can find Matt staying active. As a former college athlete who grew up playing ice hockey and volleyball, he still enjoys fitness and sports, whether 8

Crimson Spring 2026

it’s functional workouts or playing golf. However, his favorite “off the clock” time is spent with his family—his wife, two daughters, and their dog.

Whether in the weight room or in an office, Matt’s goal remains consistent: providing the strategic support and stable foundation necessary for others to excel. He looks forward to applying that same dedication to the long-term growth and success of the MBS community.

A Mission-Aligned Homecoming to MBS For Lindsay Johnson, July 1 isn’t just a start date—it’s a homecoming to a place where she was an integral part of the MBS community for nearly a decade. Lindsay brings over 20 years of experience in admissions and college counseling, most recently serving as Associate Director of College Counseling at Oratory Preparatory School. Now, she returns to lead our efforts in grades 6–12 recruitment as the Director of Enrollment Management.

Lindsay Johnson Director of Enrollment Management “One of my favorite aspects of working in an academic environment is that education is never stagnant,” Lindsay observes. “Every institution must seek ways to continue evolving and defining its place within an increasingly competitive market while remaining true to its mission and values. I truly believe that this is where the MBS community excels and I’m proud to return to continue to promote that through my new role.”

Lindsay is no stranger to the halls of MBS, having previously served as Senior Associate Director of College Counseling and Grade Level Dean.

This history provides her with a unique perspective on the studentcentered approach she now champions in Admissions.

at MBS, I’ve seen how focusing on “theSpecifically individualized attention given to each student’s academic and personal evolution, the programs we implement, and the guidance and support we provide, inspire success within our students.

”

In her new role as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, Lindsay aims to share the MBS experience authentically. Having supported students from their first days in the Middle School to their graduation plans, she understands that success here goes beyond excellent academic preparation.

As she notes, “It is the wide range of course offerings that allows students to explore and develop their interests, find their academic passions, and expand their learning beyond the classroom with the Signature Programs.”

Returning to campus also means returning to the major milestones that bookend the academic calendar. Lindsay is especially eager to experience the energy of Convocation and the celebratory atmosphere of Commencement once again. To her, the start of the year at Convocation represents a fresh promise and serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in the MBS community. She feels the same sense of pride during the Moving Up Ceremony and Commencement, where the School honors students as they prepare for their next chapters.

The MBS community might also be interested to learn that Lindsay is an avid equestrian. She grew up riding horses and still competes on the Arabian Horse circuit. While she enjoys nothing more than her Saturdays at the barn with her horse Pickles, she is looking forward to being back on campus full-time. Her deep history with the School makes her uniquely ready to step into this role and welcome a new generation of families.

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Familiar Faces in New Places Morristown Beard School is pleased to announce two additional Senior Leadership Team positions effective July 1, 2026. Darren Burns P’19, ’22, current Chief Innovation Officer, will become Associate Head of School, and Katie Pepper P’15, currently a learning specialist and Grade Dean, will become Interim Head of Upper School. With over two decades of service to MBS each, Darren and Katie bring broad experience, unwavering dedication, and a deep personal connection to MBS as proud parents of alumni.

Darren Burns P’19, ’22 Associate Head of School A valued member of the Morristown Beard School community for more than 25 years, Darren currently serves as Chief Innovation Officer and is a member of the Senior Leadership Team. He joined the MBS community in 1998 as a Middle School Guidance Counselor and then served as the Head of the Middle School before serving as Head of the Upper School.

Darren earned a B.A. in English Literature with a minor in Education from Tulane University. He continued his education at New York University, where he received a Master's Degree in Applied Psychology.

Darren’s connection to Morristown Beard extends far beyond his professional contributions. He is the proud parent of two MBS alumni, Anna ’19 and Bobby ’22.

“

Over the course of my tenure at Morristown Beard, I’ve seen firsthand the power of our mission and the meaningful difference it makes in the lives of our students. That impact is not only professional but personal as my own children have benefited from the same commitment, care, and purpose that defines this community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing to this work and energized by all that lies ahead for MBS.

”

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MBS Welcomes New Board Member JENNIE TINKELMAN P’22, ’24 Jennie is a dedicated volunteer with a deep commitment to mission-driven education. She has served as a special education liaison for the South Orange-Maplewood School District and as a long-term trustee of the Winston School of Short Hills where she held the role of board chair for multiple terms.

Jennie brings extensive experience in private school board governance, strategic planning, facilities oversight, and fundraising.

Katie Pepper P’15 Interim Head of Upper School Bringing dedication and leadership to the MBS community since 2006, Katie Pepper P’15 is currently a learning specialist in the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) and dean of the Class of 2028. Prior to joining the MBS community, she taught locally at Memorial Junior School and Salem Drive School in Whippany.

Katie earned her B.S. in Education and Special Education, cum laude, from Seton Hall University, where she was a member of the Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society. She continued her studies at Montclair State University, earning a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She holds dual credentials as a New Jersey State Certified Teacher and a New Jersey State Certified Learning Disability Teacher Consultant.

Earlier in her career, Jennie was a vice president at several boutique public relations firms in Boston and New York. In these roles she led high-level strategy and messaging for both emerging and established technology companies, managed account teams, and oversaw business development. She is a graduate of Ithaca College.

A parent of two MBS alumni, Jacob ’22 and Jonah ’24, Jennie and her husband Joshua reside in New Vernon, NJ.

MBS holds a special personal significance for Katie, as she is the proud parent of an MBS alumna, Courtney ’15.

“

It has truly been an honor to teach in the Center for Teaching and Learning these past twenty years. Every day is different, and I can genuinely say that I have learned as much from our talented MBS students as they have from me.

Serving as a Grade Dean has been equally rewarding, and really getting to know an entire class has been a wonderful experience. While I will miss both of these roles next year, I am eager to embark on this new challenge as Interim Head of the Upper School and work with the students and the entire MBS community in a new capacity. MBS is a special place, and I feel so lucky to be a part of it.

”

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MBS MOMENTS

Cum Laude Induction Ceremony On April 9, Morristown Beard School officially welcomed 21 seniors into the Cum Laude Society for outstanding scholastic achievement.

The Cum Laude Society, modeled on Phi Beta Kappa, was founded in 1906 at the Tome School in Port Deposit, Maryland, to promote learning and scholarship in secondary schools. The Beard School received its Cum Laude Society charter in 1950, the Morristown School in 1958, and Morristown Beard School in 1976.

Each chapter elects to membership those members of the senior and junior classes who have demonstrated academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and good character.

This year’s inductees (back row from left): Morgan Borofsky ’26, Madeline Bonn ’26, Clare Patchett ’26, Sohan Norden ’26, Evan Daniels ’26, Charles Everett ’26, Jack Song ’26 (front row from left): Ronnie Schreier ’26, Isabel Jaffe ’26, Alyssa Benbassat ’26, Sophia Greller ’26, Katherine Chandler ’26, Lily Horowitz ’26, Christopher Blancuzzi ’26, Ashley Parker ’26, Philip John Cichlar ’26, Antonia Galdi ’26, Carleigh Cofer ’26, Sarah Marine ’26, Rye Fleming ’26, Daniel Raimer ’26

Student Athletes Commit to Collegiate Athletics Congratulations to the following seniors who have committed to continue their athletic journey at the collegiate level: Nick Anderson ’26 — Hampton University - Lacrosse Jack Cartaina ’26 —Long Island University - Baseball Charlie Fernandez ’26 – Endicott College - Lacrosse Hannah Grella ’26 — Nova Southeastern University Lacrosse Brady Morais ’26 – Elon University - Football Avery Neuer ’26 – Trinity College - Softball Darius Payne ’26 – Case Western Reserve University Football Mia Rubin ’26 – Oberlin College - Field Hockey Ellie Sadrian ’26 – Dartmouth College - Equestrian Reid Snyder ’26 – Amherst College - Ice Hockey Oscar Speranza ’26 – Dickinson College - Football Gabe Ventura ’26 – Western Connecticut State University - Basketball Jack Thompson ’26 - DeSales University - Tennis (not pictured)

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MBS Welcomes LifeCamp Leaders to Honor Service and Legacy Board members and staff from LifeCamp visited campus to discuss the vital role MBS student volunteers play in providing an enriching summer experience for more than 300 young people from the Newark community. The session also served as a powerful tribute to the late Eddie Franz P’08, ’13, whose lifelong dedication to mentorship and community service profoundly shaped both the MBS and LifeCamp communities. By sharing how camp fosters personal growth, leadership development, meaningful relationships, and new experiences, the guest speakers inspired the next generation to carry forward Eddie’s enduring legacy of leadership and compassion.

Barbara Clark and Robert Mitchell Selected for 2026 Kellogg Awards MBS is proud to announce Barbara Clark and Robert Mitchell P’15, ’20, ’23 as the recipients of the 2026 Kellogg Awards. Established by Peter R. Kellogg P’89, GP’26, ’28 in memory of his mother, Elizabeth Kellogg GP’89, this annual honor recognizes faculty or staff members for their exceptional dedication and longstanding service to the School. Both Barbara, the Executive Assistant to the Interim Head of School, and Robert, the Director of Enrollment Management, have been integral members of the MBS community since joining in 2005.

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MBS MOMENTS

Debate Team Achieves Triple Milestone: State Success, New Formats and National Charter Status The MBS Debate program reached new heights this season, beginning with a versatile showing at Ridge High School where Alexander Carr ’27 and Jude Franco ’27 earned Honorable Mention in JV Public Forum, while Valerie Myronova ’27 and Zachary Zweibel ’27 secured 5th place in the team's Parliamentary debut. Building on this momentum, the program was designated a Charter Chapter of the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA)—the highest

distinction an Upper School can earn—before heading to the New Jersey Speech and Debate League Championships. At the State Finals, Nanakwasi Adutwum-Addae ’27, Sarah Eilenberg ’29, David Mensah ’27, and Sophia Skolnick ’29 joined the roster to navigate complex resolutions, culminating in an 8th-place finish for Carr and Franco in JV Public Forum and a prestigious 3rd-place finish for Myronova and Zweibel in JV Parliamentary.

Community Service Awards At a special awards ceremony in April, Morristown Beard School proudly recognized more than 100 Upper School students for their outstanding commitment to community service. These students went above and beyond in giving back, reflecting the School’s values of leadership, empathy, and meaningful action.

As part of the awards ceremony, The Morristown School Class of 1958 Award for Humanitarian Action was presented to Sarah Marine ’26. The award recognizes a student’s record of humanitarian deeds and awareness, as well as his/her recognition that with one’s privilege comes a responsibility to care about and contribute to the well-being of others. This year’s Frederick Cross Remington Award was presented to Marilee Vartanian ’26. The award is given by the Remington family to the student who shows genuine concern for others and diligently devotes time and effort to community service.

Olivier Phanord ’26 Represents MBS at Poetry Out Loud Regionals Olivier Phanord ’26 represented MBS at the Poetry Out Loud regional contest, held at the Mayo Performing Arts Center. This national arts education program encourages students to learn about great poetry through memorization and performance, helping them master public speaking skills and build self-confidence.

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Middle School Moments Middle School Pep Rally The MBS Middle School community gathered for the Fall Sports Recognition Ceremony to celebrate the dedication and leadership of athletes across seven different sports.

Middle School Geography Bee The MBS Middle School Geography Bee was buzzing with energy and impressive knowledge! Congratulations to champion Luke Bennis ’31.

Middle School Kindness Club Honors FLIK Catering Team Members of the Middle School Kindness Club visited the newly renovated Lee Kellogg Sadrian Dining Hall to present hand-painted artwork to the FLIK catering staff.

MS Ice Skating Party Before winter break, Middle School students laced up their skates and hit the ice for the annual Skating Party. From first glides to confident spins, the morning was filled with laughs, smiles, and unforgettable memories!

Middle School Spelling Bee Eighth grader Vansh Kakaria ’30 secured first place in the annual MBS Middle School Spelling Bee after a rigorous competition featuring talented students from across all three grades.

Student Photographer Eric Redman ’30 Captures Middle School Winter Sports Middle School student Eric Redman ’30 demonstrated his talent for sports photography this winter by documenting a wide range of athletic competitions.

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MBS MOMENTS

Upper School Chorus Directed by Alex Wise

Jazz & Percussion Ensembles Directed by Dr. John Girvin

Winter Dance Concert Staged by Andrea Deventer P’08 and Jim Ruttman

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Upper School Fall Play MBS students brought The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time to life on stage.

Upper School Spring Musical The Morristown Beard School stage transformed into the “windy city” as the talented cast and crew delivered a high-energy production of Chicago: Teen Edition.

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MBS MOMENTS

Upper School Chorus Directed by Alex Wise

Middle and Upper School String Ensembles Directed by Carolyn Baldacchini

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Jazz & Percussion Ensembles Directed by Dr. John Girvin

Spring Dance Concert Staged by Andrea Deventer P’08 and Jim Ruttman

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MBS MOMENTS

PA Holiday Decorating Members of the MBS Parents Association brought the holiday spirit to life by decorating the campus with festive displays and seasonal charm. Their dedicated efforts successfully turned the School into a winter wonderland, creating a merry and bright atmosphere for the entire community to enjoy.

PA Spring Benefit The Parents Association “Down the Shore” Spring Benefit made waves at the Crystal Plaza in Livingston, bringing the spirit of the Jersey Shore inland for an unforgettable evening of fun and fundraising! Guests enjoyed boardwalk-style games and delicious food, all set against a lively, beach-inspired atmosphere. The night was filled with energy, connection, and community as attendees came together to celebrate.

Foley Award Alexis Benbassat P’23, ’26, was honored with this year’s Foley Award, at the Parents Association General Meeting recognizing, her exceptional leadership and dedication to the MBS community.

The Foley Award is named in honor of E.J. (Kim) Foley III P’89, ’91, ’94, an MBS trustee from 1989 to 1996 and Board President from 1996 to 1999.

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A heartfelt thank you to all of our donors and volunteers whose support helped make this event a true success.

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MBS MOMENTS

John Fay Faculty Travel Grant Congratulations to MBS Middle School teacher Lisa Swanson P’21, who has been selected to receive the John Fay Faculty Travel Grant. This grant supports the professional and personal growth of MBS faculty by funding inspirational and enriching travel opportunities.

For nearly two decades, Lisa has been an integral member of the MBS community as a teacher, mentor, and leader. She helped establish the famed MBS Mini-Boat Program and serves as a dedicated coach, inspiring students and colleagues alike through her creativity, collaboration, and commitment to experiential learning.

Established by the Board of Trustees in honor of John F. Fay P’11, ’14, ’20 for his dedicated service and leadership, the grant is awarded to faculty members who demonstrate excellence both in and out of the classroom, inspire and motivate their colleagues, and contribute meaningfully to the positive ethos of the School community.

Bearing Witness to History MBS had the profound honor of welcoming Tova Friedman back to campus. As one of the youngest known survivors of Auschwitz, Ms. Friedman turned six years old while she was there, and shared a powerful message of remembrance, resilience, and responsibility.

She spoke about her survival alongside her mother, describing the fear, separation, and uncertainty they endured, as well as the strength and bond that helped them survive.

We are grateful for her visit and her message to remember, speak up, and never forget.

Chariot Races This spring the ancient Roman spirit made a comeback as the Latin Club brought its legendary ludi circenses, the festival games, back to life on Burke Field. What was once a quiet field turned into a full Circus Maximus, complete with chariots, roaring fans, and just the right amount of glorious chaos.

By the time the dust settled, the winning trio of Ben Bodack ’27, Darius Payne ’26, and Daniel Raimer ’26 crossed the finish line first and claimed victory along with plenty of bragging rights.

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SENIOR CIRCLE Reflections from members of the Class of 2026

Katherine Chandler ’26

Go. If there’s one word that could encapsulate my experiences at the Morristown Beard School, it would be those two simple letters. MBS has always been a place of possibility, and reflecting now I recognize just how true a statement that is. In Mr. Turner encouraging me to pursue a joint Independent Study in Augmented Reality Topography, in Mr. Lovelock inviting me to join the writer’s retreat for the first time, in my friends making each rainy morning a bright one, and in the upperclassmen seeking new club leaders as I do now, I felt seen. In Mrs. Kretten recognizing my psychology puns for their mnemonic value, in Mr. Kamil questioning when I will start learning yet another language, in Dr. Lalic supporting my quest to minor in French with no formal class time, and in the countless other teachers and students who continue to encourage my passions, I am emboldened. It is because they saw some spark before perhaps even I did, that I am confident I have made the most of my MBS education, while still knowing there is so much more I could explore if given the time.

For all the friends and faculty who encouraged me to go forward with my ever-growing plans, I’d be remiss not to mention Mr. Marmo and the Founders Hall community. As a freshman, I knew I loved theatre but struggled to find what that meant besides acting. I was soon enlisted into the role of Box Office Manager, and by sophomore year, had risen through House Manager to Stage Manager for Legally Blonde. Becoming Stage Manager and subsequently Production Stage Manager meant I was no longer being given cues, but issuing ones of my own. With a simple “Go” it became my privilege to shine a light on those who lit my world. As the metaphorical curtain fell on Chicago, I delivered my final “Go” cue from the MBS tech booth. Four years ago, that word meant someone else believed I was ready. Now, it's a belief I carry for myself.

Rye Fleming ’26 In December of 2018, I received a letter in the mail along with a Morristown Beard sweatshirt congratulating me on my acceptance into the Middle School. While I was excited at the time, I had no idea that I was about to embark on the best journey of my life. Seven years later, I still wear my MBS hoodie with pride. That pride has grown into a deep appreciation for what MBS represents to me.

Today, I am grateful for the sense of home the MBS community has provided. Throughout middle and high school, I have formed strong relationships with teachers, administrators, and coaches who have served as mentors and friends. Their support and encouragement has helped me grow both academically and personally. I value their company, their enthusiasm for my success, and the confidence they have shown in me.

In middle school, I met Coach Greene in his financial literacy class. I told him I was interested in being the next Varsity Ice Hockey Manager, and that despite my young age, I would be the best there was. His belief in me ended up leading to one of my favorite experiences in high school. Forging friendships with the team and working through all our wins and losses strengthened our bond, and these relationships extended far beyond the ice. When I decided I wanted to challenge my intellectual curiosity and pursue an independent study, Mr. Fisher offered countless conversations during my free periods to lead me in the right direction. Coach Valentine has inspired me to lead and believe in my abilities in every situation. Dr. Jalics helped me discover that math is more like a hobby than just another subject. These are just a few of the many meaningful connections I have made at MBS, and I am confident these relationships will endure beyond graduation.

Finally, the journey would not have been the same without my friends by my side. There's a unique comfort in knowing you are not navigating the challenges of high school alone. From free periods to classrooms and to the sidelines, these friendships are among the most significant highlights of MBS. As I approach my final eight weeks of high school, I can't help but feel nostalgic about leaving behind the remarkable years I have spent at MBS. However, I feel prepared to enter a new campus, form new friendships, and continue growing. I am proud to be a MBS lifer.

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SENIOR CIRCLE CLASS OF 2026 Reflections from members of the

Quinn Jeffrey ’26

Coming to Morristown Beard was a significant change in my life. I spent ten years at a very small, tight-knit middle school where I knew every place, every name, and every unique aspect. Joining MBS meant entering a new, unfamiliar environment, and I was very nervous.

That feeling, however, quickly subsided when I attended Field Hockey Preseason two weeks before classes began. At first, I didn’t know anyone, but being on the field created a shared purpose among everyone, which made forming connections easier. Other than the countless sprints and hours in the sun, what I remember most from preseason was how the coaches made such an effort to get to know me, and by the end of the first day, each of them knew my name. While this may seem like a small gesture, it meant everything as I was so nervous to break out of my shell. I started to see how slowly I would be able to find my place at MBS. As the year went on, that sense of belonging continued to grow. I slowly started to push myself out of my comfort zone, whether that meant speaking up more in class, trying new things, or challenging myself academically. Over time, I grew into a more confident and determined student, something I don’t think would have happened without the encouragement I found within the community and culture here at MBS. In the spring, I joined the golf team, where I formed some of my closest friendships. What started as simply being part of a team turned into something much more meaningful, as I met people who would become my best friends.

Looking back, it’s hard to believe how much has changed in my life since I first became a student here. MBS taught me to push myself in uncomfortable situations, and I’m grateful for that as I move on to next year, where I’ll carry that confidence and resilience with me to take on new challenges and continue growing as both a person and a student.

Olivier Phanord ’26

Ad Astra Per Aspera “To the stars through adversity”. My time at Morristown Beard cannot be easily summarized, but it will be indefinitely memorialized. If I had to encapsulate it in one word, that word would be freedom. Not just the kind of freedom that lets you choose what you do, but the kind that lets you discover who you are while doing it.

I have been a soccer player, the leader of an affinity group, a violist in the orchestra, a mathematician, an English student, a writer, a spoken word poet, and the champion of our school Poetry Out Loud competition. I have stood on stage and performed, but I have also sat in classrooms where ideas collided and forced me to think differently. Each role felt separate at the time, but together they formed something whole. They taught me that I do not have to choose one version of myself.

At Morristown Beard, we are given more than opportunities. We are given trust. We are trusted to explore, to take risks, to fail, and bounce back stronger. To fly up to the stars, through adversity. That trust breeds confidence. It pushes you to try something you never imagined yourself doing, and then to excel in it.

Some of my most important moments here were not the loud ones. They were the small moments when something finally made sense, when a conversation shifted my perspective, when I realized I had grown without noticing it. That is what I will remember most. Morristown Beard gave me a space to find my voice and the courage to use it. It showed me that expression is not limited to one place, but exists in everything I do. And that is something I will carry with me long after I leave.

Daniel Raimer ’26

Ironically, I’ve never been dropped off at Senior Circle.

My first vivid memory of standing there came during Convocation my freshman year. The morning air was crisp, the atmosphere was charged, and the theme of the year was Engagement. As one of the keynote speakers, I talked about stepping beyond the familiar and embracing opportunities. I compared us to koi fish—if confined to a small bowl, we’d remain limited, but if placed in a vast pond of possibility, we’d grow into something far greater. It was then that I began to grasp the depth of what MBS has to offer and the profound ways this community would shape me.

Fast forward one year later: I was always rushing somewhere. From practice to rehearsals to SGA meetings to classes, I rarely paused to appreciate how far I’d come. Swim practices bled into the evenings, the smell of chlorine clinging to my hair as I rushed straight to rehearsal, still damp, scripts wrinkled in my bag. High school wasn’t the neat sequence of milestones I pictured; it was constant motion, a current I kept choosing to follow from one commitment to the next.

Somewhere along the way, I didn’t just adjust to that rhythm, I fell in love with it.

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Among the chaos of junior year, I began to notice patterns that shaped my days: quiet victories, friendships forged, impactful acts of kindness. These weren’t the big moments I expected, but they grounded me when I felt like life was moving at full speed. Now, as a seasoned senior, I have come to realize even in constant motion, I can find balance, meaning, and connection. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities I have had to grow, learn, and make a difference, while surrounded by people who have given me encouragement and guidance.

The version of me who first set foot on this campus as a 6th grader doesn’t exist anymore. With the wisdom of seven years behind me, I finally appreciate Senior Circle as more than just a ceremonial space for a podium. It represents the pulse of this community, a reminder of our shared drive to grow, to challenge ourselves, and to support each other. Long after graduation unfolds on the famed Senior Circle, I’ll carry with me memories of the laughter, the late nights, the lessons learned on how to move through life with purpose, and how to find steadiness within chaos. Most importantly, I’ll carry the MBS values ingrained in me, keeping me powerfully prepared for the path ahead.

Reid Snyder ’26

As I prepare to walk across the graduation stage, I look back on the four unforgettable years I spent at Morristown Beard School. The first word that comes to mind when describing my experience is “family.” I entered the School in ninth grade worried that everyone had already formed bonds in middle school, making it hard for me to fit into such a close knit community. Instead, these past years have been filled with meaningful relationships with students and teachers who have pushed me to become the best version of myself.

It all began my freshman year when I was placed in Mrs. Deventer’s Intro to Dance class. Even though I could barely execute a move, I looked forward to the class every single day. Her fun filled lessons and nurturing personality helped me to quickly shake away my jitters and start to make lasting friends. Since Mrs. D also spearheaded Community Service, I quickly was able to take advantage of those wonderful philanthropic opportunities that Morristown Beard provides. In fact, I traveled with Mrs. D and a group of classmates to Habitat for Humanity, a transcending experience, two years in a row, and was given the agency to coordinate my own charity ice hockey game.

Sports teams at Morristown Beard and the inspiring coaches further added to this large family. Of course they motivated us to win, but not for ourselves, for our teammates and the name of our school on our chests. We were a true family, supporting each other through both the wins and losses. After losing in the state championship that we were expected to win, our entire team sobbed for nearly thirty minutes straight. Not because we lost the game, but because we were heartbroken that we would never be able to play with our best friends again. That kind of bond is rare, but not for Morristown Beard teams, where it is fostered by the family environment our coaches and teammates create.

MBS has played such an important role in shaping who I am and who I hope to become. It has become a home I know I can always return to, a place filled with the lessons I’ve learned, the memories I’ve made, and the pieces of myself I’ve left behind.

It is almost funny that I am this sad to leave a school, but I am grateful for this feeling, because it reflects how special my experience has been. This community has grown into a family that will stay with me long after I leave.

Jack Song ’26 Gratitude and drive–are what I attribute to my entire journey here at MBS. Like probably every student you’ll ever meet, I was a nervous freshman walking into a new school of unfamiliar, scary faces.

I personally wasn’t particularly thrilled at trading my middle school friends whom I’d known all my life in exchange for the marvelous opportunity of throwing myself into awkward social situations to try and break the ice. As the year went on, I isolated myself, growing further dissatisfied and disinterested with everything around me.

But since this is a piece of reflection rather than a running list of complaints, I pulled myself together. Strangers I had sat next to in class for most of the year became friends who I could laugh and cry beside. I started talking with my teachers, building trust and learning to appreciate the time and effort they invested in me by actually focusing on my own improvement.

I auditioned for band programs in NYC, self-enrolled in courses MBS didn’t offer, and pursued STEM opportunities recommended by my mentors. I made use of our studio in the Center for Innovation & Design, which still blows my mind that we have as a high school, to make a portfolio of recordings to use for college. I made plans for my future independent study when my schedule didn’t fit every class I wanted to take. My appreciation finally caught up with all I’d been given.

I remember walking to Founders Hall on a sunny Friday afternoon and realizing how much I’ve been handed in life. I mean, I get to go to Manhattan every weekend to pursue something I love–what is there to complain about? It would’ve been a disservice to myself and everyone around me to be anything but my best.

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C

ity

u

g C n i u t r a i o v s tl i with

Advanced Topics

By KATE SHELEG MUTTICK ’97 English Department Chair

W

hen Morristown Beard speaks about preparing students for learning and life, it includes offering innovative courses that mirror the rigor and intellectual engagement of first, or even second-year college classes. Among the most distinctive of these are Advanced Topics (AT)—courses designed and taught by MBS faculty whose expertise and curiosity reach beyond traditional departmental boundaries. The program was proposed, and continues to be led, by Dr. Gorica Lalic of the World Languages Department. Dr. Lalic explains, “as an institution, we promise our 26 Crimson Spring 2026

students that by the end of their AT experience they will start thinking like scholars within their chosen fields—mathematicians, the sciences, art history, or beyond. Through rigorous readings and discussion-based learning, students engage deeply with ideas and analyze complex issues that extend beyond the traditional curriculum”.

Developed as a rigorous alternative to the standardized structure of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Advanced Topics provide juniors and seniors with opportunities to engage deeply with challenging

material. More than 900 students have participated in the program to date, taking courses such as Environmental Economics, Italian and the Humanism of Dante, Evolutionary Psychology, and Exploration in Russian Language and Culture. Dr. Lalic notes, “faculty are equally inspired and energized as they design and teach these courses, fostering a rich and dynamic experience for both instructors and students.” These courses equal or exceed AP offerings in conceptual difficulty, intellectual complexity, and the cultivation of critical thinking and independent work. At their core, they prioritize inquiry and intellectual exploration, encouraging discussion, inquiry, and flexibility, allowing faculty to design curricula around compelling and evolving themes.

understand the purpose behind their work and the broader impact of their decisions.

Here’s a closer look at two such courses from this year’s program.

In a course that has piqued the curiosity of students and families alike, the foundation for Dr. Chris Payette’s Conspiracy Theories class was laid nearly a decade ago. While teaching a unit on astrophysics, Payette and his students examined the claim that the moon landing was faked. They dug into the physics behind the footage—why the flag appears to wave, why shadows intersect, and why there seemed to be no dust around the rockets.

The intensity of student interest suggested something more than a passing curiosity. When Payette later concluded his tenure as Science Department Chair, he returned to that moment and designed a course around it.

Medicine Analysis and Decision When Dr. Janet Berthel designed Medicine Analysis and Decisions, she set out to create a space where students could grapple meaningfully with questions of ethics and public policy. In a small, seminar-style setting, students work collaboratively while developing individual case studies that move far beyond traditional presentations. Each student conducts extensive research, constructs a dilemma, and challenges their peers to engage in sustained inquiry— ultimately guiding the group toward nuanced, independent conclusions.

A central challenge of the course lies in navigating scientific literature.

Students learn to read, interpret, and synthesize primary sources, developing the skills necessary to understand not only the science itself but also its broader implications. The course emphasizes process as much as product, with regular conferences and guided discussions that help students refine their thinking and engage thoughtfully with others.

“We start with brainstorming,” Dr. Berthel explains, “and students begin to shape their questions—what they’ve learned, how they frame the problem, and how they can lead their classmates to form their own conclusions.”

In doing so, students confront the ambiguity inherent in medicine and policy, asking fundamental questions about how decisions are made, what constitutes sufficient evidence, and what role institutions should play in protecting public well-being.

One case study examines the drug thalidomide, widely prescribed for morning sickness in the late 1950s and early 1960s before being linked to severe birth defects in thousands of children worldwide. Decades later, the drug was found to be effective in treating multiple myeloma. Through this lens, students wrestle with difficult ethical questions: What is owed to those who suffered harm? Is it appropriate to repurpose such a drug in a different context? And if so, what safeguards must be in place?

Another case explores a major industrial disaster in India, prompting students to investigate the scientific and engineering failures that led to widespread illness and loss of life. By analyzing both the causes and the response, students develop thoughtful policy recommendations aimed at preventing future tragedies.

Across these case studies, students build not only analytical skills but also empathy, as they work to design policies that minimize harm and balance competing interests. Alumni of the course—many of whom pursue studies in the sciences—often cite Medicine Analysis as a formative experience. It challenges them to think beyond procedures and outcomes, helping them

From concussion protocols in professional sports to the regulation of health claims in consumer products, students explore issues that resonate far beyond the classroom. In doing so, they leave the course better equipped to navigate complexity, engage in meaningful dialogue, and approach the world with both intellectual rigor and ethical awareness.

Conspiracy Theories

“As a scientist and science teacher, I often wonder how our society has come to question the efficacy of vaccines or the validity of climate change,” Payette explains. “The way conspiracy theories begin—by observing something and asking questions—is useful. The illogical conclusions they often reach, however, are problematic.”

In a society increasingly divided by politics and partisanship, Payette intentionally built the course around conversation, equipping students to think in logical, evidence-based ways. Projects include writing fictional dialogues that highlight logical fallacies and filming exchanges between a conspiracy theorist and a skeptic. Through exaggeration and role play, students come to see that differing perspectives need not preclude respectful, productive dialogue.

In one major essay, students analyze the work of a conspiracy theorist, using class discussions and their understanding of logical fallacies to evaluate and ultimately debunk key claims. This year, one of the most popular topics was the death of Princess Diana. After reviewing trial transcripts and examining the real-time decisions of medics and police following her fatal accident, students gained insight into why speculation about royal involvement gained traction—and how such narratives persist.

The course culminates in a project that asks students to synthesize their learning by creating their own conspiracy theories. How do these ideas spread? What makes them “stick”? In a culture shaped by personality and influence, whom do we trust—and why? Students must design and promote an original theory without borrowing from existing ones, producing artifacts such as websites, manifestos, or TikTok-style videos to bring their ideas to life.

From “The World is Secretly Run by Underwater Animals”—complete with a faculty “expert witness”—to “The Sky is a Series of Projectors Maintained by NASA,” students fully embrace the assignment. The result is both imaginative and instructive, reinforcing the course’s central aim: to develop thoughtful, discerning consumers of information in an increasingly complex media landscape.

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The Purposeful Pause: How Stepping Away from Achievement-Driven Art Created a New Blueprint for Student Success

By KATE SHELEG MUTTICK ’97 English Department Chair

Painting: “Spinning” (work in progress) by Peter Donahue

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After more than a decade of challenging students to think creatively at Morristown Beard, Art & Design faculty member Peter Donahue turned that same spirit of exploration inward. Awarded a semester sabbatical to pursue his own painting and writing, Donahue set a deliberately unconventional goal for himself: to resist the pull of productivity. Rather than measuring success by finished work or a polished style, he gave himself permission to simply experiment—studying the way light falls across skin tone, chasing technical problems for the joy of solving them. For someone steeped in an achievement-driven culture, that kind of purposeful slowdown was harder than it sounds. But the insights Donahue brought back with him are already beginning to shape what students will experience in the art room in the months ahead.

While on sabbatical, Donahue collaborated with Drawing America, a New York-based art school, to develop a course called "Famous Palettes," which examines historical approaches to color theory and how they have evolved over time. This spring, his Art 4 students explored a unit on Caravaggio that introduced a specific layering process with an emphasis on modeling light. Hanging in the studio is a pigment chart Donahue designed that plots and labels acrylic paints side by side—a visual guide that invites students to question color, make comparisons, and discover how combinations yield something entirely new. Just weeks into the course, students were consulting the chart independently and finding their own ways to construct color relationships.

Top center photo by: Steve Jones at Contemporary Arts Memphis

As one student recalled, “At first, the Caravaggio project made me doubt my abilities. I was creating an oil painting based on a photo with dramatic, cinematic lighting. I started with raw umber and then went back in with burnt sienna for flesh tones, adding details and shadows to suggest muscles, arms, and legs.”

As another student reflected, “Mr. Donahue is unlike any other teacher or art class I’ve had. It’s intimidating at first, but you have to trust the process.

He’s so approachable and helpful that even when I'm doubting myself and my canvas, he helps me talk through my technique and find a solution."

Painting: “Self-Portrait as Shadow on Snow”

by Peter Donahue

Donahue shared, "The sabbatical gave me the time and space to shift my approach to teaching art. Traditionally, there's a big focus on technique.

However, I'm trying to get the frameworks right so students can problem solve on their own."

Rather than the traditional Art 2, Art 3, Art 4 sequence, Donahue has restructured the curriculum into Painting & Drawing and Advanced Painting & Drawing. Modeled on a "one-room schoolhouse," the approach deliberately mixes students across levels and modes of creation, with the goal of inspiring and motivating one another as they take an inquiry-based approach to sustained investigations of technique and concept.

In the fall, Donahue introduced the limited palette project. Working through three small studies—each with its own limited palette—students Students at work in Donohue’s class

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ideas about reflected light and color were based in St. Bonaventure's 12th-century theory of “splendor,” or light as a reflection of the divine. This lesson included dispelling common misconceptions about complementary colors, the color wheel, and other conventions that only emerged after 1780.

In April, he traveled to Memphis to lead a color theory workshop, and this December he will return to the Smithsonian Associates to explore famous palettes from art history. His reach extends to social media as well, where a growing audience has found his work—drawn in by his talent and the originality of his ideas. aimed to capture a specific mood that also felt true to the natural setting.

When an outcome felt too stark, they switched palettes, though they still had to navigate a constrained range of color.

A more recent project put his philosophy into practice by asking students to create an artifact for a fictional society. Drawing on the kind of worldbuilding skills more often associated with prose writing, students had to consider their society's structure, ecology, and economy before designing and illustrating five objects that would belong in a museum there.

That oil paint mixture project from his sabbatical has already sparked something new: next year, Donahue will launch Color Science, an Advanced Topics course that bridges art and science. Students will explore the physics and psychology of color, mix and measure paint swatches in the lab, and create abstract artwork inspired by Josef Albers. The course runs a full semester and is set to return the following school year — no doubt with the fresh innovations and revisions that have become something of a Donahue trademark.

Beyond campus, Donahue has been sharing his theories of color on a broader stage. He recently partnered with an art historian at Hobart & William Smith College for a course called “Age of Michelangelo,” in which students read about da Vinci’s theories of light and color— but only after first grappling with the modern paradigm in order to contextualize the historical one. Donahue introduced St. Bonaventure’s theory of light. Specifically, he explained to students that da Vinci’s 30 Crimson Spring 2026

Though his sabbatical was designed to resist productivity, Donahue returned to campus with something harder to manufacture than finished work: a renewed curiosity that is already proving contagious.

Full-time faculty who have taught at MBS for a minimum of seven years are eligible to be considered for sabbatical.

Stories of Excellence

Teaching& Learning in

Sophia Greller ’26 Charting Mini Boats

Sophia Greller ’26 utilized the Science On a Sphere® to present her original datasets tracking the global paths of MBS mini boats to the 6th-grade class. As part of her Independent Study, she prepared to share her innovative research on data visualization and maritime mapping at the prestigious American Geophysical Union (AGU) conference in New Orleans.

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IN THE CLASSROOM

The ICP connects academic study with real-world application through five core concentrations: Arts & Innovation; Ethics, Leadership & Justice; Data Analysis & Research Methods; and Sustainability. The program is anchored in experiential learning, with students participating in project-based work, collaborating within cohorts, and engaging with industry professionals through guest speakers, field experiences, and Shadow Day placements.

Nadim Yacteen P’29 Shares Precedent-Driven Innovation with ICP Students Nadim Yacteen P’29 visited the Interdisciplinary Concentrations Program to demonstrate that innovation is a structured method— driven by reframing challenges and combining cross-disciplinary ideas—rather than a random flash of genius. This session emphasized that curiosity and human collaboration are the true engines of creative problem-solving, providing students with a practical framework for building an innovative mindset.

SDNY Paralegal Specialists Share Federal Prosecution Insights with ICP Cohort The Ethics, Leadership, and Justice cohort of the Interdisciplinary Concentrations Program hosted Ananya Sankar and Braden Florczyk, Paralegal Specialists from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. The speakers provided a comprehensive walkthrough of the life cycle of a federal case— spanning from initial investigation and charging to trial and sentencing—illustrated by real-world examples from high-profile litigation. Beyond the legal mechanics, they offered guidance on career pathways, including specific internship opportunities at the undergraduate and law school levels within the federal system.

Bridging Middle & Upper School Art This spring, our 11th grade Arts & Innovation ICP students held an Art Opening in the Phoebe Stiles King ’49 Gallery in the MSC, featuring work from both Middle and Upper School artists.

Curated by Genevieve Bennis ’27, Zoe Rawitz ’27, Camryn Sanchez ’27, and Emma Tofias ’27, the exhibit showcases a wide range of talent and media, from expressive portrait painting and mixed-media collage to detailed sketches and hand-crafted ceramics, including uniquely glazed bowls and vessels.

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Test Kitchen Tuesday MBS Students Explore Science and Culture Through Culinary Traditions From chemical engineering labs to world language classrooms, MBS students recently engaged in hands-on learning that combined academic theory with culinary practice. In the science lab, Dr. Chuang’s Chemical Engineering students investigated the principles of formulation, researching how specific ingredients and cooling rates influence the microscopic texture of ice cream before creating their own custom batches.

Meanwhile, French classes celebrated La Chandeleur (Candlemas) by immersing themselves in the cultural traditions of the holiday.

Guided by the French faculty, students practiced the traditional art of flipping crêpes while holding a gold coin—a custom said to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year—before enjoying a variety of authentic toppings.

Seniors Explore Global Flavors in Literature, Food & Identity Workshop Seniors in the Literature, Food & Identity English elective transitioned from the classroom to the Lee Kellogg Sadrian Dining Hall for an immersive global flavors workshop. Led by faculty and culinary experts, students sampled snacks from over a dozen countries to analyze how specific tastes and ingredients serve as cultural identifiers. This experiential lesson challenged students to identify global flavor profiles and discover the culinary threads that connect diverse cultures through the lens of identity.

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IN THE CLASSROOM

Students Explore Italian Culture Through Culinary Artistry In preparation for their study of Leonardo da Vinci, students in Advanced Topics Italian Language and Architects of Humanism classes engaged in an immersive degustazione to explore the sensory elements of the Italian meal. The hands-on workshop saw students kneading and shaping handmade pasta dough while practicing their linguistic skills by singing “Volare,” bridging the gap between historical art and contemporary cultural traditions.

By blending gastronomy with language and movement, the session captured the essence of la dolce vita and provided a collaborative foundation for their upcoming analysis of da Vinci’s iconic depictions of community and dining.

Students Master Precision and Composition Through Glass Art In Glass Design class, students are mastering technical dexterity by cutting precise hexagons and pentagons to construct a 32-sided truncated icosahedron. Using 3D-printed molds and recycled glass, this long-term project allows students to refine their craftsmanship and geometric precision alongside their regular coursework.

Concurrently, in Artisan Tools and Techniques class, students have been immersing themselves in the delicate balance of composition and craftsmanship by creating intricate glass mosaics. Through the careful selection and arrangement of colorful glass fragments, students explored specialized cutting tools and adhesive methods to transform their original sketches into finished works of art.

34 Crimson Spring 2026

AP Biology Students Master Forensic DNA Profiling Dr. Fiorica-Howells’ AP Biology students spent the day at the Cold Spring Harbor DNA Learning Center for an immersive Forensic DNA Profiling lab. Joined by faculty members Scott McCormick and Darren Burns P’19, ‘22, students explored highly variable regions of the human genome and learned how investigators use these sequences to create DNA fingerprints. They extracted DNA, performed PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), and worked with both gel and chip electrophoresis.

Even though many were trying these techniques for the first time, everyone achieved excellent results. It was a fascinating, hands-on science experience for all!

Biology Students Extract DNA in Hands-on Strawberry Lab Students in Dr. Chuang’s biology classes transitioned from theoretical lessons to practical application by exploring the cell cycle and tissue repair. To better understand the critical process of DNA replication, students performed a laboratory extraction to isolate genetic material from strawberries. By combining material from multiple samples, the classes were able to move beyond the microscopic level to observe visible DNA strands firsthand.

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Remembering Mateo Kauffman Sandler ’28 This winter, the MBS community mourned the loss of Mateo Kauffman Sandler ’28. Sophomore class president, member of the soccer, ski, and golf teams, and talented artist, Mateo will be profoundly missed. At MBS, Mateo flourished and found so much joy and inspiration with his teachers and his beloved classmates.

Mateo’s parents, in coordination with the School, are designing a new seating area on campus dedicated to his memory. Located on the edge of the Class of 2020 Quad nearest the Middle School, “Mateo’s Bench” will serve as a place of gathering, friendship, and a remembrance.

The new seating area will include a retaining wall, a bench, and an extension of the pavers, with an addition of some Adirondack chairs donated by the Parents Association. The existing plaque for the Class of 2020 Quad will be relocated near the tree closest to Beard Hall, and a plaque in dedication to Mateo will be installed.

Construction is planned to begin over the summer.

Future site of “Mateo’s Bench” and seating area in memory of Mateo Kauffman Sandler ’28

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IN THE CLASSROOM

Class of 2030 Launches Meaningful 8th Grade Legacy Project The Morristown Beard School 8th Grade Class of 2030 is launching a Legacy Project to enhance the area outside the entrance of Founders Hall, surrounding Emily’s Garden.

Lead by Lisa Swanson P’21, the project is designed as a meaningful culminating experience, giving students the opportunity to leave a lasting contribution to the campus community. This year’s 8th grade class will begin the first phase by planting flowers, improving landscaping, and enhancing the outdoor space around the garden. Each subsequent 8th grade class will continue to build upon this work, establishing a tradition of ongoing care and stewardship.

“The 8th Grade Legacy Project is a culminating experience that gives students the opportunity to reflect on their time in Middle School while leaving something meaningful behind for the students who will inhabit the community after them,” said Alonda Casselle P’27, ’30, Head of Middle School.

“It highlights students’ growth, our MBS values, leadership, and experiences throughout their Middle School journey, incorporates a community service component, and encourages students to consider the impact they want to have on the broader community.”

Emily Aguas ’12 Emily’s Garden serves as both a gathering space and a place of remembrance on campus. The garden is named in memory of Emily Aguas ’12, an MBS student who tragically passed away in a house fire in 2007 along with members of her family.

Speaking to the 8th grade class about the importance of the project, Juan Tejeda P’31 of the World Language Department reflected on Emily’s memory and the meaning of the initiative.

“Emily Aguas joined MBS as a seventh grader. A member of the tennis team and swim team, Emily was a typical middle school student whose kindness and smile touched those around her,” he shared.

He continued, “Founders Hall was still being built when the Middle School was assembled in the Aux Gym on December 12, 2007. We learned the sad news that Emily had perished in a house fire which also took the lives of her mother, father and grandmother. We lost a special 8th grader that day. Keep Emily in mind as you work on your Legacy Project.”

By combining service, creativity, and remembrance, the initiative reflects the values of the MBS community while establishing a tradition that future Middle School classes will continue to shape and maintain.

Crimson Spring 2026 37

❶

Middle School Moments ❶ 8th grade students explored the physical, emotional, social, and

mental pillars of self-care to foster personal wellness. To conclude the workshop, students crafted decorated snowflakes featuring realistic selfcare commitments to serve as visual reminders to prioritize their health throughout the remainder of the school year.

❷ In preparation for their Global Studies journey, members of the Middle

School Costa Rica Club participated in a virtual cultural exchange with Sra. Daisy Rodriguez Kelly. Sra. Kelly, a Costa Rican educator, shared personal narratives and traditions from her upbringing to provide students with an authentic perspective on daily life and cultural values in the region.

This engaging session served as a final orientation for the students before they departed for their immersive travel experience during spring break.

❷

❸ 8th grade students completed a “build-it-your-way” challenge by

engineering scientifically accurate 2D and 3D models of the DNA doublehelix. This hands-on project allowed students to use diverse materials to demonstrate the structural organization of genetic material, blending creative design with rigorous molecular biology.

❹ 7th grade scientists transformed into roller coaster engineers, designing complex model rides featuring loops and hills to demonstrate the interplay of gravity, inertia, and Newton’s Laws. The project culminated in professional presentations to a “board of directors,” where students defended their designs by calculating the centripetal force and acceleration required for a safe yet thrilling rider experience.

❸

❸ ❹

❹ 38 Crimson Spring 2026

Beyond the

Classroom

EXPLORING THE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF GREECE As part of the Global Studies program, MBS students traveled across Greece to immerse themselves in the country’s culinary traditions, ancient history, and traditional craftsmanship. The journey ranged from hands-on cooking classes with local chefs and visits to familyrun ceramics workshops to exploring the architectural wonders of the Acropolis and running the original track at Ancient Olympia.

Crimson Spring 2026 39

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

SEA ISLAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Ten students and two chaperones spent an impactful spring break on Johns Island, South Carolina, where they contributed to multiple Sea Island Habitat for Humanity projects through groundbreaking site preparation and home rehabilitation. The group balanced rigorous construction tasks like installing silt fencing and building support beams with educational excursions to Charleston.

40 Crimson Spring 2026

MARINE SCIENCE AT THE ISLAND SCHOOL, BAHAMAS Sixteen Upper School students, accompanied by faculty chaperones Brad Turner P’26 and Dr. Sara Chuang, enjoyed a marine science experience in tropical ecology, ranging from coral reef surveys and invasive lionfish dissections to navigating mangrove ecosystems and managing sustainable aquaponics systems. By combining physical adventure—including SCUBA diving and island exploration by bike—with rigorous scientific inquiry, students gained a firsthand understanding of the delicate balance between local island culture and global environmental conservation.

MIDDLE SCHOOL GLOBAL STUDIES

IMMERSING IN NARRATIVE AND TRADITION IN JAPAN Upper School students completed an immersive storytelling and writing expedition through Japan, beginning in Tokyo with visits to the futuristic teamLab Planets and the historic Meiji Jingu Shrine.

The journey continued through Yamanashi for a traditional temple stay and calligraphy workshop with local peers, followed by a deep dive into Kyoto’s iconic cultural sites like the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Fushimi Inari Shrine. To conclude their narrative-focused journey, students participated in a professional manga workshop in Akihabara and visited the Studio Ghibli Museum to see how ancient traditions influence modern Japanese media.

During spring break, MBS 7th and 8th graders traveled to Costa Rica for a Global Studies expedition that balanced ecological exploration with cultural exchange and community service. From trekking through volcanic regions and cloud forests to engaging in reforestation efforts at the Children’s Eternal Rainforest, students gained a firsthand perspective on how local conservation impacts global environmental health.

Crimson Spring 2026 41

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Exploring New Horizons:

MBS Students Visit The Met, Barclays, Museum of Illusions, and an Artist Studio Artist Studio Students from an introductory Spanish class traveled to the studio of artist Jairo Alfonso for a look into his professional workspace and creative process. During the visit, students conducted a prepared interview in Spanish, practiced his unique artistic techniques, and enjoyed authentic Cuban empanadas to round out the cultural experience.

Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC) 11th grade US History students traveled to New York City to explore the renowned American Wing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Barclays Class Trip (NYC) Students in the Advanced Seminar Economics class and the Business, Finance, and Investment Club traveled to New York City for a look into investment banking at Barclays.

The visit featured presentations from industry leaders on equity research, fixed income sales, and the growing impact of AI, as well as an overview of the firm’s competitive internship programs. The experience concluded with a tour of the Barclays trading floor, hosted

by Mike Webb P’24, ’26.

GIRLS GOLF TEAM TEES OFF IN ARIZONA

The Crimson Girls Golf Team traveled to Scottsdale, Arizona, for an intensive preseason training trip featuring daily professional instruction at the John Jacobs Golf School and competitive rounds at premier desert courses.

Beyond refining their technical skills, the athletes focused on leadership development and team bonding, establishing a strong, collaborative culture to carry into the season.

Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC) Students in Ricky Kamil's P'15 History of the Middle East class traveled to The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC) to explore the "Art of the Arab Lands, Turkey, Iran, Central Asia, and Later South Asia" galleries.

42 Crimson Spring 2026

Museum of Illusions (NYC) To conclude their Sensation and Perception unit, students from Lori Kretten’s P’28 Psychology classes traveled to the Museum of Illusions in New York City.

The trip provided a hands-on opportunity to engage with interactive exhibits and optical illusions that challenged their understanding of depth, motion, and visual perception.

CRIMSON AFTERNOON OF SERVICE HONORS NEAL RAMASAMY ’23 More than 20 student clubs collaborated on a wide range of service projects, including crafting care packages for veterans and shelters and creating handmade gifts for children and seniors. The community also gathered for a special All School Meeting to collect gaming consoles and art supplies for S.T.A.G. (Stay Tough And Game), an organization that supports children undergoing cancer treatment. These collective efforts proudly honored the legacy of Neal Ramasamy ’23 through a shared commitment to compassion and community service.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Offering our time, service, and friendship

Thanksgiving Food Drive The annual Thanksgiving Food Drive showcased the community’s holiday spirit as students and staff raised over $1,000 to purchase turkeys and assemble complete holiday meals.

These donations were shared with families through The Salvation Army.

Blood Drive The MBS community showed incredible spirit during the fall blood drive, filling the Aux Gym with donors dedicated to saving lives. The event saw a strong turnout of supporters who contributed to the cause.

Toy Drive Morristown Beard School’s holiday spirit was on full display as the annual toy drive wrapped up with incredible success.

Thanks to the generosity of the MBS community, a truckload of toys was collected for the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, spreading joy far beyond campus!

GRACE MBS 6th graders traveled to Summit, New Jersey, to volunteer with GRACE, an organization serving over 800 local families. During the service trip, students supported the community by bagging bread and crafting handwritten Thanksgiving messages for neighbors in need.

Crimson Spring 2026 43

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

LEARNING HOW ELITE ATHLETES TRAIN THEIR MINDS

BUSINESS, FINANCE & INVESTMENT (BFI) CLUB HOSTS GUEST SPEAKER SERIES

Larry Biegelsen P’26, ’27

visited the Advanced Studies Economics class and BFI Club to provide an inside look at the role of stock analysts, using the medical device industry as a primary case study. Students explored how analysts synthesize market trends and policy shifts to guide investors, while also discussing how human judgment remains essential in a finance landscape increasingly influenced by AI.

Jay Gatz P’25, ’26, Vice

President at Emerson, visited the Advanced Studies Economics class and BFI Club to share expertise from his 30-year career in global sales enablement. Mr. Gatz provided students with a deep dive into enterprise management and value creation, illustrating how economic theories are applied to decision-making within the complex modern business landscape.

Students from the Advanced Studies Economics class and the BFI Club gained valuable professional perspective from David Jaffe P’24, ’26, ’30, Managing Director at Citibank.

Mr. Jaffe discussed critical global trends, such as postCOVID economic shifts and rising mortgage rates, while providing students with practical career guidance in the field of corporate banking.

MBS welcomed experts from Saugatuck Mind & Sport Lab! Middle and Upper School students joined sessions with sports psychology specialists and a dietitian, discovering how elite athletes train their minds, not just their bodies.

From JV and varsity athletes to club players or anyone interested in mindset, students gained practical tools to build confidence, resilience, and overall well-being!

SCIENCE OLYMPIAD TEAM The MBS Science Olympiad team competed against 30 schools at the Regional Tournament held at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Led by student captains and coach Sakhi Patel, the 18-student team earned impressive results, including a 4th-place finish in both Robot Tour and Rocks and Minerals, as well as 5th place in Bungee Drop.

MOCK TRIAL MAKES HISTORY In just its third year, the MBS Mock Trial team has reached a major milestone by qualifying for the semifinals of the Morris County Tournament. Holding a perfect 3–0 record after sweeping the preliminary and quarterfinal rounds, this marks the first time in program history that MBS has advanced to the top four in the county. The team, representing both Defense and Prosecution, is led by dedicated student attorneys and witnesses with the support of volunteer attorney-coach Amanda Fiverson P’25, ’28.

44 Crimson Spring 2026

8TH GRADERS EXPLORE SERVICE LEADERSHIP AT COMMUNITY SERVICE WORKSHOP The Community Service Workshop provided 8th grade students with a comprehensive roadmap for Upper School service, detailing hour requirements and the various awards available for those who exceed standard expectations.

Student leaders from a wide range of service organizations—including GLOW, Crimson Cares, and Comfort Project 360—shared specific opportunities for involvement before the session concluded with a hands-on project creating art for local nursing home residents.

FENCING HIGHLIGHTS

MBS STUDENTS NAVIGATE DIGITAL ETHICS AT REBOOT JR. SUMMIT A group of MBS Middle School students— Aarav Aggarwal ’31, Daniel Gerson ’32, David Mattle ’30, Zara Mittler ’32, Meer Nehra ’32, and Luca Porpora ’32—recently attended the REBOOT Jr. Summit at Kent Place to confront the ethical challenges of the modern digital landscape. Through hands-on workshops like the “Deepfake Challenge” and debates on social media privacy, students strengthened their ability to think critically about misinformation and digital safety in an increasingly complex online world.

Three MBS studentathletes demonstrated exceptional grit and sportsmanship while competing as independent fencers at the Cetrulo High School Fencing Tournament at Drew University. Caleb Wong ’27 and Jacob Wong ’28 both delivered dominant performances with 7–1 records to qualify in Saber and Foil, respectively, while Tomás Kennedy Valenzuela ’28 rounded out the strong showing with a competitive 4–3 finish.

MIDDLE SCHOOL DELEGATES COMPETE AT RED OAKS MODEL UN CONFERENCE MBS Middle School delegates participated in the Model UN Conference at The Red Oaks School, where they stepped into the roles of global diplomats to debate pressing international issues. Students utilized critical thinking and collaborative negotiation to build consensus on complex global challenges, showcasing exceptional public speaking and leadership skills throughout the event.

WRESTLING HIGHLIGHTS Max Kirshenbaum ’31 competed in wrestling at the MSAC (Middle School Athletic Conference) tournament held at Newark Academy. Wrestling in the 100–110 lb weight class, Max emerged as the champion for his division!

Crimson Spring 2026 45

CRIMSON CORNER CORNER CRIMSON

FALL SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

Girls Volleyball The Girls Girls Volleyball Volleyball program program displayed displayed incredible incredible The grit and and growth growth this this season, season, highlighted highlighted by by several several grit notable wins wins at at the the JV JV level. level. The The Varsity Varsity squad squad battled battled notable through aa high-stakes high-stakes schedule, schedule, earning earning the the 13th 13th seed seed through in the the Non-Public Non-Public A A section section and and competing competing in in both both the the in County and and Prep Prep tournaments. tournaments.

County

46 Crimson Crimson Spring Spring 2026 2026 46

Boys Soccer Boys Soccer Soccer demonstrated demonstrated Boys impressive teamwork, highlighted impressive teamwork, highlighted by hard-fought victories over rivals rivals by hard-fought victories over like Kinnelon and Morris Catholic. like Kinnelon and Morris Catholic.

Entering the the Non-Public Non-Public B B tournament tournament Entering as the 10th seed, the Varsity squad as the 10th seed, the Varsity squad secured a decisive upset over secured a decisive upset over Pioneer Academy Academy to to advance advance to to the the Pioneer quarterfinals. quarterfinals.

Girls Soccer It was a milestone year for Girls Soccer, which posted its most wins since 2018. Led by Lexi Strauss ’29 (23 points) and All-Conference selections Caitlin Carr ’28 and Margot McKinney ’29, the Varsity team reached the NJ State Quarterfinals after a thrilling 2-1 upset over Kent Place.

Cross Country With 32 runners, Cross Country saw immense growth this year. The boys team finished 6th out of 19 at the NJAC Championships with four First-Team All-Conference runners,(Jack Moore ’27, Roshan Kothari ’29, Kai Cheng ’28, and Tristen Laguerre ’28), while the girls side was sparked by standout freshmen Lake Heinze ’29 and Cory Graham ’29, who both earned First-Team honors.

The Field Hockey program reached new heights this season, clinching the NJAC Divisional title. Key highlights included Mia Rubin ’26 reaching her 200th career save and the Varsity team’s 4-2 upset victory over St. John Vianney to advance to the NJ State Quarterfinals.

Field Hockey

FALL 2025 CHAMPIONS

Field Hockey NJAC Divisional Champions Crimson Spring 2026 47

CRIMSON CORNER

Crimson Football defined itself through grit and resilience this season, fielding both a full Varsity and JV schedule. The Varsity team secured five wins— including a memorable Homecoming victory over Dalton—while the JV team’s commitment laid a strong foundation for the program’s future.

Girls Tennis Fall & Winter Sportsmanship Awards Recipients:

Football

48 Crimson Spring 2026

Student-athletes Jake Kahm ’26 and Rebecca Schwartz ’26, received the Fall Sportsmanship Award. Student-athletes Sarah D’Mello ’26 and Angus Downey ’26 received the Winter Sportsmanship Award.

Girls Tennis dominated its division, finishing 2nd in the NJAC Liberty with an 8-2 record. Every Varsity athlete earned All-Conference honors, and the team secured a topfive finish at the Morris County Tournament. At the Prep B Tournament, Olivia Minoia ’28 (1st Singles) and 1st Doubles team Lily Horowitz ’26 and Caitlin Prince ’27 all advanced to the semifinals. Olivia Minoia (1st Singles) and Lily Horowitz and Sydney Kaplan ’28 (1st Doubles) qualified for the NJ State Tournament. The JV squad also shined, finishing 12-5 as the strongest JV program in the division.

WINTER SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS Skiing

Kathryn Mckeever Photography

Boys Basketball It was a historic year on the slopes as both the Boys and Girls Ski Racing teams qualified for the State Championship for the first time. The boys finished 8th in the state, while the girls earned their first-ever podium finish (3rd) and the Non-Public State Title.

Catalina Fonseca ’28 (2nd) and Ellie Sadrian ’26 (7th) both received 1st Team All-State honors.

The Varsity Boys Basketball team reached the quarterfinals of both the County and State tournaments while playing one of the state's most challenging schedules. A major program milestone was reached early in the season when MJ Jarrell ’27 scored his 1,000th career point. The JV and Freshman levels also showed depth, combining for 16 wins.

Girls Hockey

Ranked in the state's top three all year, the Girls Hockey team captured the Librera Cup and headed to the State Championship at Prudential Center. Defenseman Reid Snyder ’26 set a program record for a defender with 117 career points, while goalie Hannah Mortazavi ’26 became the first in School history to surpass 1,000 career saves (1,256). The JV squad also finished strong with a 6-2 record.

Crimson Spring 2026 49

CRIMSON CORNER

WINTER 2026 CHAMPIONS

Boys Hockey Mennen Cup Champions Girls Hockey Librera Cup Champions Track & Field State Champion Imani Crosby ’26 (Shot Put)

Boys Basketball 1,000 career points MJ Jarrell ’27

Boys Hockey The Boys Hockey team enjoyed a stellar season, earning a top-5 state ranking and capturing their second consecutive Mennen Cup Championship with a 7–0 win over KJS (Kinnelon Jefferson Sparta).

The dominant top line of Evan Redman ’27 (76 pts), John Gonnella ’26 (74 pts), and Marcus Cassidy ’28 combined for 193 points. Historic milestones were set by goalie Mason Hriczov ’27, who established a program record with 1,284 career saves. John Gonnella was also named NJ Devils Player of the Month for February.

50 Crimson Spring 2026

Indoor Track & Field MBS athletes dominated the postseason, with the boys finishing 2nd and the girls 3rd at the Prep Championships. Imani Crosby ’26 became a State Group Champion in Shot Put, while Julia Covey ’28 captured a Morris County title in the 600m. At the NJSIAA State Relay Championships gold medals were won by the girls for the Shuttle Hurdle Relay (Clara Frei ’27, Quinnley Gin ’28, Madison Marks ’27, Skylar LaGuerre ’27), the Sprint Medley (Q. Gin, C. Frei, Hannah Grella ’26, J. Covey), and the Shot Put Relay (I. Crosby, H. Grella). Imani Crosby was also the Shot Put champion at the Prep Championships, along with the 4x400m team (H. Grella, C. Frei, Q. Gin and Iyanna Romans ’27).

The Girls Swim Team finished 6-3, setting three new school records in the 50 free, 100 free, and 100 backstroke.

Maya Weinmann ’28 made history by winning gold in the 50 free at the County Championships—the first Crimson swimmer to do so in a decade. The Boys Swim team placed 11th at Preps, led

by Nick L’Estrange ’28, who took 9th in the state in the 100 backstroke.

Swimming

Girls Basketball Resilience and growth defined the Girls Basketball season as the Varsity team, led by first year head coach and MBS all-time leading scorer, Bridget Monaghan ’19, advanced to the Prep Tournament quarterfinals and earned spots in both the County and State tournaments.

The JV program saw a significant increase in wins this year, highlighted by a seasonclosing victory over Kinnelon, reflecting the rising talent within the program.

Crimson Spring 2026 51

YOUR SUPPORT GOES A LONG WAY

The MB Fund

The MB Fund—the School’s Annual Fund—is our yearly fundraising effort that directly supports the current year's operating budget and helps close the gap between tuition income and the actual cost to educate a student. The MB Fund sustains the quality of our School and touches nearly every aspect of the MBS experience.

Here is a recap of our signature campaigns that were a huge success this year thanks to your support!

Thursday, January 22

Morristown Beard School Day of Giving

The MBS community demonstrated its collective generosity during the Thanks2MBS day of giving. This annual initiative successfully brought together parents, alumni, faculty, and friends to support the School’s mission, with every contribution directly impacting the student experience and campus programs.

Thank you for your support of The MB Fund.

from $199,239 donated $30,000 increase last year

393

total gifts

61

donors increased their Thanks2MBS gift from last year 52 Crimson Spring 2026

61

first-time donors

113

made an additional gift

551

donors surpassed goal of 500 donors (110%)

Scan the QR code to make a donation to The MB Fund

Thank you for your support!

DECEMBER 2, 2025

Morristown Beard School

Giving Tuesday is a global day to celebrate generosity observed on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, after the shopping events of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and kicking off the charitable season.

At Morristown Beard, Giving Tuesday represents the chance to come together as a community and give back to make an impact by supporting The MB Fund.

from $90,000 donated $20,000 increase last year

Winners: Class of 2032 and 2027 During our Class Challenge this Spring, we surpassed our goal of 80% participation among the current parent community, grades 6-12. The School was rewarded with “dual dunk tanks” where students took a chance at dunking Alonda Casselle P’27, ’30, Head of Middle School, and Ryan Liese P’31, Associate Head of School and Head of Upper School. The Class of 2032 and 2027 were the first to reach 80% participation and were rewarded with a coupon for the Crimson Cafe!

Class Challenge by the numbers

81%

$42,123

15% increase from last year

$15,000 increase from last year

participation

donated

Crimson Spring 2026 53

POWERFULLY PREPARED Ambassador Marcie Berman-Ries ’68

By Mia Rubin ’26

While taking a break from schoolwork, senior Mia Rubin ’26 decided to read about alumni of Morristown Beard School. It was then that she learned about Ambassador Marcie Berman-Ries ’68. Immediately intrigued, Mia reached out to the Office of Advancement to see if she could connect with Ambassador Ries.

Mia’s tenacity led to a series of phone calls and exchanges with the Ambassador, culminating with campus visit on January 9, 2026.

Earlier this Spring, I had the wonderful opportunity of hosting Ambassador Marcie Ries ’68 at Morristown Beard School. She spent the day visiting classes, having lunch with the Model UN team, and speaking to the entire community during our traditional Friday All School Meeting. During her speech, she spoke about her career in diplomacy. She detailed stories of what it was like to be a female ambassador, while raising children, and negotiating through conflict, which resonated deeply for our School community, as our School value of the year is Tenacity.

While I knew how special it would be to me to have Ambassador Ries on campus, I was a bit taken aback by how impactful her visit was for my peers.

It was as clear to them, as it was to me, that her time at The Beard School had powerfully prepared her for her successful career in world diplomacy.

Since our first call, Ambassador Ries has been wonderfully open with me about her time at The Beard School and specific experiences there that lead to finding her life’s work. During our latest discussion, where we spoke extensively about these experiences, I learned that not only was her trip to the United Nations with a social studies class a catalyst for learning, she also credits the integration of current events into that same class for helping her gain a deeper understanding of the importance of engaging in the broader world around her. Of course, her learned note taking skills were an added bonus, “most of what young diplomats do is go to meetings with a more senior diplomat and take notes,” she stated.

Here, I began to draw parallels between my lived experience at MBS to Ambassador Ries’ at The Beard School. Like, Ambassador Ries, I have taken courses that honed in on current events. I work one on one with teachers to perfect my note taking skills, and as part of the Model United Nations team, I

54 Crimson Spring 2026

“The [...] thing that really impressed me was in the classes

that I attended, the students’ willingness to speak out, to ask questions, to probe, to display their enthusiasm for the topics was also similar to what I experienced at Beard...

”

—AMBASSADOR RIES have even been granted the opportunity to engage in foreign policy outside of the classroom heading to Washington D.C. with the team in 2024 and 2026.

• More than 35 years of

But, it doesn’t stop there. Like MBS’ Global Studies program, The Beard School offered Ambassador Ries’ family the opportunity to host an Iranian exchange student and later connected her with the opportunity to visit Yugoslavia the summer after her graduation in 1968. According to Ambassador Ries, the trip helped her gain a deeper understanding of the independent position of Yugoslavia during the Cold War. Outside of the classroom, Ambassador Ries participated in both lacrosse and field hockey at The Beard School. A proud Spartan, she stated the role of athletics in her educational journey played an important part in teaching her sportsmanship and discipline, specifically as a defenseman. “The importance of the success of any goal depends on all of its players, not just the best defenseman or offenseman”, she stated matter of factly. This resonates deeply with me, a field hockey goalie who will continue playing at Oberlin College next year—just like Ambassador Ries—a fact I did not find out until months after our original conversation. (The parallels got personal!)

Although her time at The Beard School occurred on a different campus, during her visit she found that the core hallmarks that made her experiences so formative were present over 50 years later. Students from the Language of Leadership class were presenting on personal values. Ambassador Ries took notice, “When I went to The Beard school, the seniors were expected to give a ‘chapel talk’ once during their senior year that was about themselves and their values. The day I visited, there were student presentations at the All School Meeting about personal values and recognition of what is important in life and in human behavior. The other thing that really impressed me was in the classes that I attended, the students' willingness to speak out, to ask questions, to probe, to display their enthusiasm for the topics was also similar to what I experienced at Beard, particularly in the Social Studies class, but also in others.”

Ambassador’s Achievements diplomatic experience in Europe, the Caribbean and the Middle East

• Director of the Office of Ambassador Marcie Ries ’68 and Mia Rubin ’26 during her day on campus this Spring.

UN Political Affairs in the State Department from 2001-2003

• Three-time Chief of Mission, serving as Head of the U.S. Mission in Kosovo (2003-2004), United States Ambassador to Albania (2004-2007) and, most recently (20122015), as United States Ambassador to Bulgaria

• Specialist in national security issues and arms control

Quotations were edited for clarity and accuracy.

Crimson Spring 2026 55

ALUMNI MOMENTS

The ICP connects academic study with real-world application through five core concentrations: Arts & Innovation; Ethics, Leadership & Justice; Data Analysis & Research Methods; and Sustainability. The program is anchored in experiential learning, with students participating in project-based work, collaborating within cohorts, and engaging with industry professionals through guest speakers, field experiences, and Shadow Day placements.

Why Data Matters: Lesson from Boll & Branch’s Founder & CEO Students in Morristown Beard School’s Interdisciplinary Concentrations Program (ICP) got to explore the real-world power of data during a presentation from Scott Tannen ’95, P’22, ’25, ’25, Founder and CEO of Boll & Branch a premium, home goods brand specializing in luxury organic bedding.

Tannen’s message was simple but powerful. Data is human behavior quantified. Every tap, search, and purchase leaves behind a signal. Small on its own, these signals become meaningful patterns when viewed at scale. They help businesses understand what people value and predict what they will do next.

Forecasting, which Tannen described as the weather of business, is a key application. By analyzing traffic, conversion rates, and repeat customer behavior, Boll & Branch plans inventory, staffing, and marketing with greater accuracy.

Forecasts are never perfect, but they provide a critical foundation for running smooth operations.

Tannen also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI). AI identifies patterns, predicts demand, personalizes marketing, and flags changes in real time. This helps teams act faster and more strategically.

Data is central to sustainability as well. Boll & Branch uses tools like the Higg Index to track environmental impact, material sourcing, and labor practices. This ensures commitments to ethical production are backed by measurable progress.

Even the company’s retail growth is guided by data.

By analyzing customer locations and shopping patterns, Boll & Branch makes informed decisions about where to open new stores. Growth is intentional and supported by evidence rather than guesswork.

For ICP students, the takeaway was clear. Data is not just for analysts or engineers. It is a tool that can enhance decision-making in any field. Whether combined with creativity, leadership, or design, the ability to understand and apply data is an essential skill.

Exploring Ethics in Law Enforcement with John Robertson ’97 Earlier this semester, John Robertson ’97, Supervisory Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation shared insights into the ethical challenges and responsibilities faced by law enforcement professionals with ICP students.

During a lively 45-minute session, Robertson led a discussion on three key topics: an overview of FBI work, the ethics of certain investigative practices, and the principles of servant leadership in public service. He encouraged students to think critically about the balance between protecting the public and upholding civil liberties.

While Robertson was mindful of the limits on what he could disclose, he enriched the conversation with anecdotes and hypotheticals drawn from real-world situations. Students were invited to consider difficult questions, such as how to make ethical decisions under pressure or how

56 Crimson Spring 2026

personal values intersect with professional responsibilities.

By sharing his experience, Robertson helped students understand that ethics in law enforcement is not abstract. It is a daily practice that requires thoughtfulness, integrity, and a commitment to the greater good. The discussion emphasized that critical thinking, empathy, and accountability are central to both effective policing and responsible leadership.

For the ICP students, the session offered a unique glimpse behind the scenes of federal law enforcement and a valuable lesson in how ethics guides decisions in high-stakes real-world environments.

MBS Celebrates Generational Connections at 2nd Annual Legacy Gathering Morristown Beard School hosted its 2nd Annual Legacy Gathering on February 27 to honor alumni whose children are currently enrolled as students.

This joyful event celebrated the enduring family bonds and deep-rooted relationships that continue to define the MBS community across generations.

John Cullum ’04 Represents Cum Laude Alumni On Friday, April 10, John Cullum ’04 visited Morristown Beard School as an alumni speaker for the Cum Laude Society. John got a tour of the Center for Innovation and Design from Chief Innovation Officer Darren Burns P’19, ’22, spoke at a senior journalism class, and met with the 2026 Cum Laude inductees. His visit on campus culminated with remarks at the All School Meeting about his career and how his passions for both science and art were ignited at MBS.

Crimson Spring 2026 57

ALUMNI MOMENTS

NEW ADDITIONS Alumni Board Welcomes New Members

The MBS Alumni Board welcomed two new members this school year, and we are excited to have them join us!

Alex Borowiec ’16 Alex attended Morristown Beard School from 2009 to 2016, proudly earning the title of “lifer.”

During his tenure at MBS, he was a key member of the boys varsity ice hockey team and served as captain during his senior year. The Borowiec family connection to MBS is a strong one; his sister, Nicole Borowiec, was also a lifer (2012– 2019) and a standout athlete in both track and field hockey.

Following his graduation from MBS, Alex continued his athletic and academic journey at Lebanon Valley College. He played collegiate hockey and was again named captain in his senior year. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2021, followed by a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2022. He has since bolstered his professional expertise by earning several advanced financial designations, including the ChFC®, CLU®, and RICP®.

After his collegiate career, Alex played professional hockey in Illinois before transitioning into high-level officiating. He currently travels nationwide as a referee for NCAA Division I and Division III games.

Today, he resides in Morris Plains and serves as a financial planner with Madison Legacy Partners in Morristown. Remaining an active member of the MBS community, he is dedicated to ensuring that

MBS Alumni Network Helps Senior Project Come to Life On Friday, March 6, current senior Gabriella DiGeronimo got to meet alumnus, Dr. Steven Berwitz ’95. A dentist currently living in Savannah, GA, Berwitz helped to make Gabriella’s senior project plans come to life! Gabriella, who will be attending University of Tennessee Knoxville to study Aerospace Engineering, asked the MBS alumni network for a connection in the industry down in the Charleston area.

Dr. Berwitz answered the call by connecting Gabriella with one of his patients who works at Gulfstream!

58 Crimson Spring 2026

future generations of students enjoy the same impactful experience that defined his own time at the School.

Francesca Albini ’05 Francesca Albini is a fashion and accessories executive with over 15 years of experience building consumer brands. She graduated from Indiana University in 2009 and began her career as a buyer, developing a strong foundation in merchandising and product strategy.

She was the first employee at Stoney Clover Lane, helping grow the business from its earliest days into a widely recognized brand.

Today, Francesca is the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Little Words Project, where she leads licensing and partnerships with major retailers including Target and Disney. She enjoys working at the intersection of creativity and execution, bringing meaningful products to life.

A proud Morristown Beard legacy, Francesca lives in Maplewood, New Jersey, with her boyfriend and their two cats. She’s excited to stay connected to her high school community, support fellow alumni, and mentor students as they begin exploring their own career paths.

Lessons on Growth & Innovation Recently MBS welcomed alumnus Jared Pine ’21 back to campus to speak with students in the Advanced Studies Economics class and the Business, Finance, & Investment Club about innovation, industry, and the lessons that shape success over time. During his visit, Jared shared several guiding ideas that have influenced his thinking, including: “keep doors open,” “progress compounds,” “be curious,” and “process over product.” He encouraged students to embrace lifelong learning, remain open to unexpected opportunities, and recognize that meaningful growth often happens gradually through consistent effort and reflection. These themes sparked thoughtful discussion among students about growth, opportunity, and long-term success.

Senior Transition Alumni Panel The Office of School Counseling and the Office of Advancement partnered to host a virtual panel discussion for the senior class this April as part of the Senior Transition Series. The panel included six young alumni who are currently attending college, and focused on the transition from MBS to university life. Students had the opportunity to ask their most pressing questions and hear first-hand from their peers about their experiences. The alumni panelists were Makenzie Lawson ’22 (Wake Forest University), Dani Gates ’22 (Southern Methodist University), Jonah Tinkelman ’24 (American University), Natalie Lebovitz ’24 (Cornell University), Abbie Van Cleef ’24 (Bucknell University), and Alex McMahon ’25 (University of Colorado Boulder).

Admissions Alumni Panel On January 27, the Office of Admission and the Office of Advancement partnered to host a virtual panel featuring six alumni ranging from 1981 to 2020 to share insights about MBS for current and prospective families. Families had the opportunity to ask alumni about their MBS experiences, how prepared they felt for life beyond MBS, and even share their own perspectives as potential and current families at the School. The alumni panelists were Anika Buch ’20, Kelly MacMahon Ewing ’91, P’24, ’24, ’24, ’28, Roshan Nozari Leslie ’05, Todd McConnell ’02, Brian Monaghan ’17, and Bryan Szerip-Joyce ’04.

Stopping by MBS? Say hello!

We love when alumni stop by for a visit. Even if you’re casually dropping in, we’d love to say hello and give you a warm welcome. Be sure to let Stacy Albanese, Director of Alumni Engagement, know that you're coming by! Email her at salbanese@mbs.net.

MBS is coming to Summer of 2027

Hosted by Janine and Cartwright Wallace ’93, P’28, ’31 For more information, please contact Stacy Albanese, Director of Alumni Engagement, at salbanese@mbs.net.

Crimson Spring 2026 59

ALUMNI MOMENTS

Revere Hotel Boston Common APRIL 24

Boston, MA

APRIL 30

Save the Dates!

Homestead Bar & Kitchen

Morristown, NJ

Alumni Gatherings & Events Parker House Sea Girt, NJ

✔

July 12, 2026 (registration open)

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Bay Head Alumni Cocktail Party July 23, 2026 (registration open)

✔

Homecoming & Reunion

✔

Nantucket

September 25 & 26, 2026

Summer 2027 M AY 2 0

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Mustang Harry’s

New York, NY

CLASS NOTES

Updates From the

Alumni Board Dear Fellow Alumni, Spring is always a season of renewal and momentum at Morristown Beard School, and this year brings an especially exciting moment for our community.

After an extensive nationwide search, the Board of Trustees has unanimously appointed Ryan Liese P’31 as the next Head of School. Ryan has served MBS with distinction as Head of Upper School since 2020 and, more recently, as Associate Head of School.

At the same time, we celebrate another milestone—our graduating seniors. The Class of 2026 recently crossed the stage and began their journey as alumni. Each year, this transition reminds us that the strength of our alumni community lies in its continuous renewal. These graduates join a network of individuals who carry forward the values, friendships, and spirit of MBS into the world, and we are excited to welcome them.

As we look to reconnect and celebrate together, I’m also pleased to share that we hosted happy hour events in Morristown, Boston, and New York, and look forward to hosting the always popular Bay Head event this summer. These gatherings offer a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with classmates, meet fellow alumni, and strengthen the bonds that make our community so special. We hope to see many of you there.

Thank you for your continued engagement and support of Morristown Beard School.

Together, we ensure that the MBS alumni community remains vibrant, connected, and strong for generations to come.

Warm regards,

Brian C. Kilduff ’05 President, MBS Alumni Board

1954

Richard “Dick” Seabury III, shares, “I’m blessed with good health at age 89 and two months into my 90th year. I was an eighth grade boarder in 1949. Headmaster Wilkie interviewed me and mentioned taking a test which concerned me, so I avoided it. I worried about flunking out. School was small and every tuition dollar was needed. The School taught me to be a good citizen and to make a difference as a responsible person. Mr. Taylor’s history courses, a favorite, inspired me. I still love history and am now a trustee of the Montville Township Historical Society and a co-chair of the forthcoming Morris Canal Day in town. The Morris County Commissioners recently reappointed me to another term on the Morris County Park Commission. I have really enjoyed this responsibility, particularly as chairman of the land preservation committee. Sue and I are proud of our four children and nine grandkids. They are helpful with yard projects, wood piles, and my antique car restoration tasks. I have eight antique autos to play with. It is fun to drive the 1930 Ford after a restoration effort, but sliding around under a 1919 Dodge truck takes an effort.”

1959

Linda Blanchard Chapman, Gail Lehman Harty, Judy Baldwin Martin, and Evelyn Swanson Prather gathered on Zoom in January to hear updates on Morristown Beard School today and to catch up with one another. It was a wonderful evening remembering and reminiscing!

Need volunteer or event information?

Please visit mbs.net/alumni-association

Crimson Spring 2026 61

CLASS NOTES

Not long after their Zoom gathering, Evelyn escaped the winter doldrums by heading to Florida to visit Judy and Peggy Summers Brandli.

Michael Wilson III writes, “We moved from Morris Township in 2007 to New Bern, NC, after selling my retail business, Wilsons Interiors, located in downtown Morristown for 32 years. My wife (Kay) of 48 years passed away in 2012 and in 2014 I met a terrific lady, Gail, a widow, also from NJ. We married in 2019. I have a 1931 Pontiac and a 1951 Ford that we show in various shows in Eastern NC. We bought a small RV in 2019 and have traveled to all of the 48 contiguous states.

I am the head of the Buildings & Grounds Committee in our neighborhood, Carolina Colours, which keeps me quite busy. We have close friends who also live here from Chatham, and Long Valley. We visit Rupe & Sue Hauser and Myles & Chris Acken (both 1959) whenever we are in NJ.

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1974

David V. H. Hedley, Sr., celebrated his 80th birthday in December surrounded by family and fellow alumni Peter Hedley ’97, Melissa Hedley ’90, David Hedley III ’87, Bob Hedley ’55, and future MBS alumni, Alex Hedley and Connor Hedley.

Richard Shaw’s twelve part suite, “Leap into the Waterfall”, was included in The Galway Review’s anthology of best poems of 2025. (The Galway Review #14)

Justine Braatz Ashton writes, “Classmates, you may recall I spent a summer as an exchange student living with a family in Grenoble, France. While there I fell in love with my French brother Jacques. We reconnected last fall. He’s retired, happily married, and lives on Cape Cod. L'amour he says never dies. I wish you all happy trails!

Ashton Vineyard, now in its 54th year of operation, is our small estate family owned farm in Sonoma Valley. We are doing fine.”

Daniel Lyons Jr. writes, “I am proud to say after 50 years of being a certified master chef, I have been inducted into the Orange County Chef ’s Association of Honored Chefs! After my graduation from the Culinary Institute of America in 1976, I did my three year European apprenticeship at the Hotel Europa in Lucerne Switzerland and my two year USA apprenticeship at the Hyatt Regency in Atlanta, Georgia. After working at the Hyatt Regency, the DoubleTree, and finally the Ritz Carlton in Laguna Niguel, I owned the Westminster Manor banquet house for 28 years until I fully retired last year. I am so honored to receive this honorable award from my peers. Thank you so much!”

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Steven Zuckerman is Creative Director of the International Solutions Network, MobilizedNews.

1977

Susan Milford Bandy shares, “We are finally settled in our new home in Clinton, MS, near two of our daughters and our ten grandchildren ages 10 to newborn. We are adjusting to Southern climate and culture and embracing Southern hospitality! We love visitors!”

1979

Members of the Class of 1984 gathered in December for their annual holiday gathering. Pictured are: David Lucas, Robert Schaffer, Adam Diglio, Christopher McClanahan, Richard Dean, Christopher Wenzel, Michael Capasso (spouse of Ligia Noye Capasso), Theresa Diglio (Spouse of Adam Diglio) Mary Dean (Spouse of Rich Dean), Ligia Noye Capasso, Nancy DiDonato (Spouse of Chris McClanahan), Rosalie Small, Nancy Tennant (spouse of Chris Wenzel), and Howard Nacht (Spouse of Rosalie Small).

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see Herman Kurz on multiple mornings for pick-up hockey at the Essex Hunt Club, as well as Mark Goggin at sporting clays.

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Steve Fusco enjoyed a lively round of golf with his brother, Tom Fusco ’77, and friend, Finn Wentworth ’76, in Vero Beach, FL.

1984

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Craig Cunningham USMC retired from Southwest Airlines after 21 years as a captain on the Boeing 737. Craig also retired from the Marine Corps in 2004 after 21 years of active duty service.

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Dennis Budd shares, “While visiting NJ for a month from California to help my parents transition to assisted living, it was great to

1988

Dr. Kathleen P. Costello-Sullivan was inducted into the Irish American Hall of Fame in the category of Education on April 25, 2026, at the Irish American Heritage Center in Chicago. Founded in 2010, the purpose of the Irish American Hall of Fame is to preserve the “story” of the Irish in America, thus becoming a resource for all Americans or those interested in the development and history of America including academic researchers, teachers, and students of Irish and American history at all levels, those interested in genealogy, cultural historians

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CLASS NOTES

Dr. Scott M. Robertson shares an update: “Last fall, I earned a performance award for leading my agency’s development of the online Veterans Accommodations Toolkit, which was recently featured in The HR Digest. This toolkit advances resources, strategies, and tips to improve employment supports for disabled veterans, including people with mental health conditions. I have also been honored to receive a NextGen Public Service Award and the Henry Viscardi Achievement Award for exemplary global leaders for my work expanding job and career opportunities for people with disabilities.”

2007

Richard Leonardis welcomed a daughter, Mia Virginia Leonardis, born on February 17, 2026 at 10:48 a.m. at Baptist Hospital in Miami, FL. She weighed in at 5 lbs., 15 oz., and at 19 inches long.

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Jennifer Ponder shares, “I am a business owner now. B.L.L. Culinary Gardens is a garden consulting and coaching business in northern New Jersey that helps home gardeners, families, and community groups grow organic, foodfocused gardens that actually get used in the kitchen. The company is named after my mom, Brenda Lee Love, who passed away from breast cancer in 2002. I blend my background as a professional chef and longtime gardener to design, install, and maintain edible gardens, then teach people how to cook with what they grow through lessons, workshops, and

2011

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demos. I am a mom of twin boys, Lincoln and Isaac. Our family lives in Morristown, about ten minutes from Morristown Beard.

The boys are ten and very active. I work as a freelance catering chef and part-time as a culinary enrichment instructor for kids.”

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and the general public. The Irish American Hall of Fame is operated under the auspices of the Irish American Heritage Center.

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Alex Fetchko married his girlfriend of 7 years in July 2025 in NYC. They met at Williamstown Theater Festival in 2018, working together on shows for the summer. They continue their careers in theater (her in Props, Alex in Lighting) in NYC where they live in Inwood with their two cats, Teeny & Tombo.

SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTE TODAY FOR THE FALL 2026 CRIMSON! Keep the MBS community updated on your latest personal, professional, and civic achievements.

Please email alumni@mbs.net or scan the QR code by August 30, 2026 to be included in the next issue of Crimson.

IN MEMORIAM Margaret Shippen MacIlvaine Robbins ’39, May 18, 2025, age 103. Margaret, known as Peggy, was brought up with a strong sense of service. She grew up in Summit, New Jersey and attended Miss Beard’s School, which was K-12.

She graduated from Kent Place School in Summit and Wellesley College. Peggy greatly valued education. Throughout her life she and her husband gave financial assistance to many students. During World War II, Peggy served with distinction in the WAVES, the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service, meeting First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and disability advocate Helen Keller. After the war, Peggy worked as a secretary in the import/ export division of W.R. Grace where her proficiency in French and working knowledge of Spanish were highly valued. In 1950 she married Charles Francis Robbins who shared her commitment to community service and her interests in history and genealogy. Peggy belonged to the New Jersey Chapter of the Colonial Dames. She was a direct descendant of Edward Shippen and then William Shippen.

Each held high offices in 17th and 18th centuries Pennsylvania. Her husband’s great grandfather was baseball pitcher A. G. Spalding who founded the athletic supplies company carrying his name. Charles was a trustee of The Beard School from 1959 to 1970. Active in her Llewellyn Park, New Jersey community, Peggy was president of the Garden Club of the Oranges with a special interest in preserving natural landscapes. She was a deacon of the First Presbyterian Church of the Oranges where she had married Charles. Peggy's first choir solo was at age sixteen. She would sing in church choirs through much of her life, including the Ocean Grove Choirs Festivals. Peggy took joy in opening her Cape Cod summer home to family and friends. She loved to paint and share her work with others. Predeceased by her husband, Peggy’s five children Dr. Margaret (Reta) Shippen Robbins ’69, a psychiatrist in Tennessee, the Reverend Charles Francis Robbins IV ’72, Virginia, Keith, and Thomas

survive her as do spouses and succeeding generations.

The Reverend Richard Lyon Stinson ’56, January 5, 2026, age 87. Dr. Stinson had a long life of service to his God, humankind, and the natural world. In a wide ranging conversation, Dr. Stinson’s son Peter recalls his father talking about his good years at The Morristown School.

Dr. Stinson would recount how one day his mother dropped him off at School and handed him a few hundred dollars in cash, saying, “Bring this to the office for your quarterly tuition.” Those were different times. While at The Morristown School, Richard became deeply interested in geology and contemplated going to the Oklahoma School of Mining and Metallurgy to become a metals engineer. Young Richard would be called to another path. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Hobart College in Geneva, New York, a Master of Divinity from the Episcopal Theological School in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and a Master of Sacred Theology from the University of the South. His Doctor of Ministry Degree was from Howard University in Washington, D.C. His thesis reflected his long practice of contemplative prayer. Dr. Richard was committed to civil rights, marching in the Third Selma March in support of The Voting Rights Act of 1965. For many years, Dr. Stinson served in the US military including as a Marine Corps reservist, an Air Force officer candidate, and an Ensign in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He was his year’s honor graduate of the Chaplain Officer Basic Course and commissioned as a Chaplain in the United States Army in 1967. He served at Fort Eustis (Newport News, Virginia), in the Republic of Vietnam as Chaplain of the 3rd Battalion, 47th U. S. Infantry, 9th Division, and at Fort Belvoir (Alexandria, Virginia). As Chaplain Stinson, Richard returned to civilian ministries in 1970 and joined the Virginia Army National Guard, rising to the rank of Colonel. He would be Virginia State Chaplain

into the 1990s and had a commission as a Brigadier General in the Chaplain Corps of the Virginia Militia. Richard’s military decorations include the Legion of Merit (United States and Virginia), two Bronze Stars, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Technical Service Medal (Republic of Viet Nam). The American Red Cross recognized his actions in Vietnam with an “Award of Merit for Life Saving.” Dr. Stinson would work to save both lives and souls his entire life. He was a first aid and CPR instructor for sixty years. At his death, he was the oldest licensed Emergency Medical Technician in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Dr. Stinson’s civilian years of ministries included Saint James Church (Mount Vernon, Virginia), Good Shepherd Mission in Navajo Nation (Fort Defiance, Arizona), and Saint Luke’s Church (Hope, New Jersey). The longtime Rector of the Washington Memorial Chapel in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, he was named Rector Emeritus on retirement. For over 30 years, Dr. Stinson was a volunteer Police Chaplain. The Fairfax County Virginia Police Department recognized him for “Superior Community Service in the Interest of Public Safety.” He was a licensed amateur radio operator, operating as KB3KBC, an amateur geologist; and an avid birder. He died on National Bird Day. The former Anne Melanie Freudenberg, Richard’s wife for 65 years, and family survive him.

Eleanor Ritchie Spence Bates ’61, February 21, 2026. Born in New York City, Eleanor was a student at The Beard School for four years. She was known for her exuberant spirits and her love for summers in New Hampshire.

Eleanor is best remembered for her singing, serving as Glee Club president her senior year, and head of Chapel Choir as an undergraduate. After Beard she attended Western College for Women and married George L. Bates in February 1966. The couple brought up two sons and lived for many years in Florida.

She was living in Arcadia, Florida at the time of her passing. Predeceased by her husband,

Crimson Spring 2026 65

IN MEMORIAM her two sons Harold and wife Christine, Scott and wife Amy, four grandchildren and one great grandchild survive her.

Elizabeth Veitch Dodge ’63, September 7, 2025, age 80. At Beard, Elizabeth, known as Betsy, was the hard working president of The Beard School Association. She next graduated from Connecticut College. She married the Reverend W. Thomas Dodge, Morristown School ’63, who was a past pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Morristown before his ministries in Pennsylvania. Since 1978 the couple lived in various communities in Lancaster County. They had two sons. Her son Owen and his wife Emily survive her as do her late son Kevin’s wife Lorelee, two grandchildren and her sister and brother-in-law. At the time of her death, Betsy belonged to the LCBC Manheim Church, Lancaster campus. Betsy enjoyed nature study and supported Keep America Beautiful.

Michael John Sowa ’85, December 17, 2025, age 58. Michael loved music and he loved the outdoors. He had lifelong passions for fresh and salt water fishing and for skiing. After several post-graduation years in New York City, Michael relocated to Quechee, Vermont–ski country. At MBS, Michael was on the ski team, ran track and cross country and was an outstanding student. He graduated as Valedictorian. His mother, Joan Sowa, long taught English at MBS and advised the ski team. He received his first degree from Dartmouth College in 1989 and a second degree in engineering from Dartmouth’s Thayer School of Engineering in 1990. Michael worked largely in Information Technology Infrastructure for various companies including New York’s Network Technology and Smith 66 Crimson Spring 2026

Barney. He later founded his own LLC and worked as a consultant. His mother Joan Sowa and three children Sabina, Alex, and Ryan survive him as does his brother Mark Sowa ’86 and his former wife Jennifer Seabury Sowa ’87, his Aunt Patricia O’Brien, and other family.

Michael taught each of his children to ski and, in quieter moments, to carve intricate jack o' lanterns. He was an enthusiastic cook, using herbs and vegetables from his garden. Michael loved preparing meals for friends and he rooted strongly for the New England Patriots. Here is one of two quotations he chose for his senior page in Salmagundi, “I have laid aside business, and gone a fishing.’’–The Compleat Angler, Izaak Walton. The other was from The Wind in the Willows.

Jean S. Cobb Dodsworth P’83, ’84, Former Faculty and Registrar, September 12, 2024, age 82. Jean was a vital member of the MBS community for over 27 years. She was a former parent, mathematics teacher, mathematics department chair, class advisor, and School registrar. Her husband Armand Dodsworth reflected on Jean’s devotion to math education.

“She deeply believed everyone should understand math. She loved teaching and was a dedicated teacher,” Armand said. “She continued tutoring math to within weeks of her passing,” Armand continued. Jean came to teaching in her late 30s. Jean was born and grew up in Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania. She was educated there including at Chestnut Hill College. Jean interrupted her education to marry Armand in 1962 and then to bring up her two children, Armand William Dodsworth III ’83 and Anne Dodsworth Drummond ’84.

Armand, their children, daughter-in-law Dawn Dodsworth, and two grandsons survive her.

Naysayers said the marriage wouldn’t last.

Armand and she were a devoted couple for 63 years. In the early years of their marriage, they moved often—Valley Forge, Pennsylvania; Cherry Hill, New Jersey; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and Ocean City, New Jersey—settling about five years later in Montville, New Jersey.

They lived in Montville until their 2007 retirement to Nevada. In 1981, Armand and Jean started a business, Able Supply, where Jean played active roles while also working both as an assistant school librarian and completing

her undergraduate degree at Caldwell College in New Jersey at night. Assigned to a private school for practice teaching, Jean was actually the de facto mathematics teacher. Sometime after their son became a student at MBS, he mentioned that his math teacher was leaving.

Jean spoke with Headmaster Phil Anderson and started teaching at MBS almost immediately. She was a creative and beloved teacher. She demanded much from her students and gave much to them. After her death, Armand uncovered many hundreds of letters of gratitude from parents and students. She brought math to life. “Jean shaped the young lives of countless students during her tenure,” said former, longtime reading and learning specialist at MBS Carol McGough. “With skill and patience Jean found a way to reach all students in classes from the basic to the advanced,” Carol continued. For some summers, Jean and Carol co-taught a MBS six-week summer enrichment/preparatory program. Carol talked about the program. “Two days a week we went out into the field. Jean presented math application problems regarding, for example, the construction of area suspension bridges or at early New Jersey industrial sites.

She was amazing.” The 1996 Salmagundi was dedicated to Jean. “You have spent countless hours devoting yourself to your students. Your dedication as a teacher, your open mindedness to learning, and your compassion as a friend helped us develop both individually and as a class,” the yearbook editors wrote. Jean and Armand always maintained and held dear their MBS friends especially the late Rose Koch, Pam O’Connor and Carol. When the couple relocated to Henderson, Nevada, Pam O’Connor drove one of their convoy of cars heading west. “She stayed hours every weekday helping students after school. On weekends Jean worked long hours both for MBS and the business,” Armand said. When computers first became available, the Dodsworths were early adopters. Jean created programs to monitor inventory, create invoices, and more. Unknown to the MBS community was Jean’s moniker

“Ms. Marker.” The nickname was an admiring reference to Jean’s own company Trumark Industries. She bought and ran it on her own while working long hours for the School. In time, the businesses afforded Jean and Armand the luxury of extensive overseas travel. Jean and Armand especially loved Paris, walking hand in hand for mile after mile. Their favorite quotation was from the 1942 film classic, Casablanca, “We’ll always have Paris.”

Alden Coe Hess, Former Faculty and Staff, December 25, 2025, age 87. Alden lived a life of family, community, and work. He had a strong impact on the many lives he touched. He was a 1961 graduate of Mount Union College, Ohio, now Mount Union University, where he played football and lacrosse. He met his late wife Betty Reid Hess there. They were married for 61 years. Alden later earned an MBA from Pace University while working full time. He worked in the financial sector for about 30 years. “I was never on the income side. I was in operations,” Alden said during a 2010 interview with this writer for Crimson magazine. Alden started at Citibank in 1961. He would work at other New York City banks, Merrill Lynch, the New York Stock Exchange, and as a consultant.

Alden spearheaded key industry innovations.

“I put into place the nation’s first automated fiduciary tax system and prepared the initial work for what became the CUSIP number, the identifier of each stock or bond issued in the US,” Alden said. He drafted the legislation that would eliminate paper trades, allowing the stock exchange to have multibillion share days. Alden’s love for lacrosse was legendary. He started the lacrosse program at his college and would serve as secretary, then the president, of the New Jersey Lacrosse Club. Hess broadened community and secondary school lacrosse. He co-founded and coached the Chester, Pennsylvania program, chaired the formation of Mendham High School lacrosse, and was a charter member and the treasurer of the New Jersey chapter of the Lacrosse Foundation. He later was the

foundation’s presiding officer and a trustee.

In 2002, Alden was inducted into the New Jersey Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Lacrosse also first brought Alden to MBS in 1992 as assistant coach for Boys Varsity Lacrosse. In 1998, he became head coach for the MBS Girls Lacrosse team. He would say that under his leadership, the boys team never had a losing season.

Then, he would laughingly note that under his leadership the girls never had a winning season. In 2000, Alden began a gratifying 12 years on the MBS faculty filling diverse roles.

His coaching expanded to Boys Hockey and Baseball and he was the voice of MBS Football, announcing home games. Alden taught both Economics and Speech Communications.

He advised the MBS Business, Finance and Investment Club, drove a school bus, and would be a permanent substitute teacher in all subjects. “I am willing to work from the inside out, that’s what I do. I bring my years of real life experience to the students,” Alden said. MBS Chief Innovation Officer Darren Burns P’19, ’22 remembered Alden. “Alden had a wonderful smile and a robust laugh that filled the hallways of MBS,” Darren said. “He helped our Middle Schoolers find their voices, guiding them with patience and humor.”

Director of Upper School Athletics Joanne Dzama echoed Darren Burn’s admiration.

“It has been one of the great privileges of my career to work alongside Alden at MBS. Alden’s impact extended far beyond wins and losses.

For decades, he had been a steady presence on our fields, teaching, guiding, and inspiring student-athletes. His deep sports knowledge was matched only by his humility and humor, qualities that endeared him to generations of players and colleagues. Our School community is stronger because of Alden’s dedication,” Joanne wrote. “I am personally grateful for the years of partnership, wisdom, and friendship he has shared,” Joanne continued. Alden was active in the Mendham, New Jersey community where he and Betty brought up their family.

Predeceased by his wife, Alden’s children Ellyn Jayne Hess Celeste, Gayle Ann Hess Lodato, Scott Alden Hess, five grandchildren, and sister Paula Hess are among his survivors. He served on Mendham's Mountain View School Board, supported the local public library and was a member of the Hilltop Presbyterian Church.

His children remember his handing out 8th Grade graduation diplomas and, with youthful help, building the Mendham Public Library’s Bookworm Labor Day float. Alden also volunteered as a coach for recreational youth sports, took his family on memorable vacations, taught Sunday School, was active in his Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter, and the Morris County Republican Committee. He enjoyed time with family and friends. He read scripture aloud in his bellowing voice and loved to smoke his pipe while coaching. Let Alden’s reflections on MBS conclude this tribute. “I love the sense of community here,” Alden said.

Kindly send information on alumni passings to Director of Alumni Engagement Stacy Albanese at salbanese@mbs.net. Carol Selman ’64 researches and writes In Memoriam.

Crimson Spring 2026 67

NG EBRATI CEL

Saturday, September 26, 2026

YE A R S

Please join us in celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Athletic Hall of Fame and help us welcome the Class of 2026.

Coach Joe DeKasar (posthumously)

Football • Baseball

Patrick Yannotta ’06 Hockey • Baseball

Michael McDonald ’01 Baseball • Football • Basketball

The 2010-2011 Girls Ice Hockey Team

We are excited to announce the 2026 Morristown Beard School Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony will be held as part of Homecoming and Reunion Weekend.

Saturday, September 26, 2026 3:00 PM Induction Ceremony • 4:30 PM Reception Lee Kellogg Sadrian Dining Hall • Morristown Beard School 68 Crimson Spring 2026

Your first year of “retirement” may have looked a bit different than you expected, but thank you for delaying it to guide us through this pivotal year.

From navigating our hardest moments to celebrating historic milestones, you have been everything to everyone. MBS will forever be indebted to you.

You led with thoughtfulness, empathy, and unwavering fortitude, and you are leaving MBS a far better place than you found it.

Philicia G. Levinson P’19 Interim Head of School 2025-2026

Advancement Office 70 Whippany Road Morristown, NJ 07960

HOMECOMING & REUNION WEEKEND Save the Date

SEPTEMBER 25-26, 2026 Mark your calendars!

The event is open to all alumni, with special recognition of reunion years (ending in 6 or 1).

We look forward to seeing you there!

Registration is open!

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Lancaster, PA Permit # 161