SPRING // SUMMER 2016
Farewell,
Polly After 37 years, Derby says goodbye to the iconic Polly Rizzotto.
Then & Now Derby Academy is a co-educational, Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8 school that nurtures the development of the child by providing opportunities for the maximum intellectual, emotional and physical growth of each student. That mission is as important now as it was three centuries ago. (Or three decades; the photo on the left is from 1984.)
CONTENTS features 22
Last Chapel 2016 Students and faculty gathered one last time to recognize the achievements of the eighth grade.
28
Derby Day This year Derby celebrated its 225th Derby Day. Reverend Ken Read-Brown of Old Ship Church delivered the Derby Day Lecture.
42
Derby's Constant Gardener For 37 years she transformed Derby's students, its classrooms, and its gardens—our beloved Polly Rizzotto has retired, but her legacy continues to grow.
departments 4
From the Head of School Mr. Perry thanks the Derby community for a year of growth and the school's bright future.
6
Campus News This spring at Derby was busy with theater productions, science experiments, field trips and special guests.
50
Class Notes As the class of 2016 heads to secondary school, see what our other alumni are up to, from college and career news to birth and wedding announcements.
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Joseph J. Perry, Jr. COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
Marcus Miller DIGITAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Connor Gleason PHOTOGRAPHERS
Connor Gleason Marcus Miller PRINTER
Fowler Printing & Graphics
Please send letters to the editor, class notes, obituaries, and changes of address to: DERBY ACADEMY
56 Burditt Avenue Hingham, MA 02043 781-749-0746 advancement@derbyacademy.org Cover: Polly Rizzotto in the Sadlon Garden (photo: Connor Gleason) Look for our Annual Report this fall, and our next magazine in 2017.
derby network Follow Derby Academy on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram!
I’D LIKE TO BEGIN BY SAYING
it comes with determination, personal
THANK YOU TO THE ENTIRE
achievement, and confidence. The
COMMUNITY FOR YOUR
Derby experience that we all know
SUPPORT DURING MY FIRST YEAR AT DERBY ACADEMY. I have interacted with so many of you already and look forward to getting to know you all better. This first year passed so quickly, yet I feel like I’ve been here for years. You have all made me, my wife, Karen, and our children feel so welcome wherever we go. The Derby community and entire Derby family is large, connected by experience and history, and I look forward to seeing Derby continue to grow and move forward. This year I witnessed so many students accomplish so much. This publication captures just a glimpse of all that happened at 56 Burditt Avenue this year. The snapshots will show smiling faces, inspiring activities, and successful students. You will not see all that developed in the classrooms, all that took place on the sports fields, all that occurred on the stage, and definitely
/ derbyacademy
not all that happened in the minds
allows students to grow in a secure and safe environment where academic and social-emotional risk taking are expected, encouraged, and supported. For 232 years Derby Academy has built the foundation for growth, and our students have reaped the benefits of this foundation in the past and today. The magic of a Derby foundation is timeless, ageless, communal, and personal. I am so happy to have found Derby for myself and for my family and I am looking forward to many more years to come. I invite you all to come to campus as often as possible, rekindle and reconnect with the community at events this year, and reach out through our many channels of communication. We would love to see you and hear from you—share with us how Derby’s foundation has provided you and your family with opportunities to grow. I hope to see you soon.
and hearts of our students. Growth— this is the theme I began with at First
@derbyacademy
Chapel and (as you will read in these pages) the theme I ended with at Last
@derby.academy
Chapel—is not always accompanied by a photo or a trophy, or even a smile, but
Joseph J. Perry, Jr. P’17,’19,’26 Head of School
PRESIDENT
Maureen D. Pace VICE PRESIDENT
Mark K. Jones TREASURER
Hugh M. Kelly SECRETARY
Christie O’Connor TRUSTEES
Susan H. Blair Mark G. Clayton Robert R. Fawcett, Jr. Kathleen Garvey Caroline Curtis Hayes ’99 Jean Jones Edward C. Maher Metri R. Metri Maria Martignetti Murphy Jennifer Lowe Newell ’90 Jay K. Sadlon Leigh Schwartz Katherine A. Sherbrooke EX-OFFICIO
Joseph J. Perry, Jr. Head of School Lori W. Cashman President, Parents Association TRUSTEES EMERITI
Jane Cheever Carr ’50 Harry W. Healey, Jr. Patricia B. Leggat Elizabeth M. Loring Bruce H. Minevitz
U
nder a clear blue sky, students met on the
for a variety of track and field events like the hurdles,
playing fields for a day of fun and friendly
obstacle courses, the long jump, and tug of war. It was
competition during Derby’s Field Day on
a day of cheers and fun in the sun, and in the end
May 20. One of the highlights of the year
the Darks reigned supreme for the boys, and the girls
for our Middle and Upper Schoolers, it’s a tradition
finished with an astounding tie between the Toppers
that dates back to the 1950s, bringing students together
and the Derbies. / /
Spirit Captains Each year, Derby spirit teams elect an eighth grade captain and assistant captain. This year's captains were:
①
Lights
Captain: Taalib Dibinga-Robinson (left) Assistant Captain: Isaac Sadhwani (right)
②
Darks
Captain: Owen Forman (left) Assistant Captain: Jared Arevian (right)
③
Derbies
Captain: Emma Bradley (left) Assistant Captain: Lexi Dewire (right)
④ Toppers
Captain: Kate Rowe (right) Assistant Captain: Brony Jensen (left) 6
DERBY ACADEMY MAGAZINE
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
7
NEWS Middle School Pride Lions, hyenas, gazelles, and giraffes took over Derby Academy as Grade 6 performed “The Lion King JR.” in November. From the excellent singing, acting, and dancing to the exceptional costumes, students brought the Broadway experience to Larson Hall. / /
Let There Be Light Derby students brought holiday traditions from around the world to our very own Larson Hall during the winter season’s holiday concerts “Peace of the Season,” “Holiday Traditions,” and “Let There Be Light.” / /
8
DERBY ACADEMY
A Symbol of Equality In April, at the end of the Grade 8 Global Citizenship Project, Derby students and faculty gathered for a ceremony in recognition of gender equality. Students answered the prompt, “When I’m 80, I want women to ,” and hung their responses outside in the shape of the number 65—representing the 65 million girls around the world who are not enrolled in school. Students then gathered on Talbot Field in the shape of the gender equality symbol, uniting our community in recognition of gender equality. / /
D.A.R.E. Graduates
Math + Night = Fun
Members of the administration and the Hingham Police
Derby Academy brought mathematics into the spotlight
Department recognized graduates of Derby's 11th annual
during its inaugural Middle and Upper School Family
Grade 6 D.A.R.E. program on April 13. The event marked
Math Night on April 12. The evening featured fun
the culmination of the two-week course that teaches
games and hands-on math activities that showcased
strategies for drug and alcohol abuse prevention and
practical uses and real-world applications that tested and
positive decision-making skills. / /
reinforced concepts being taught in class. / / SPRING // SUMMER 2016
9
A Front-Row Seat Derby Academy opened its classrooms to current parents and trustees during the Derby Classroom Experience and Visiting Day on April 6. The school welcomed parents from all grade levels as they visited classrooms to experience a day in the life at Derby, interacting with students and participating in teachers’ lessons. / /
Engineering the Future The Future City Competition in March was a culmination for Grade 6 students who spent five months building cities that could exist at least 100 years in the future. Students used software that teaches city planning and design, wrote research essays, created 3D scale models, and made formal presentations to the Boston Society of Civil Engineers. In the overall competition, team L.E.T.S. Go Green (pictured) swept first place and ranked fourth in the New England Region for Best Virtual City and Best 3D Model. / /
10
DERBY ACADEMY MAGAZINE
ARTS NIGHT T
he creative arts at Derby Academy flourished
Recitals in Larson Hall followed, featuring outstanding
during an evening of artwork, music,
performances by Middle and Upper School bands,
and dance at Arts Night on May 26, and a
ensembles, and dance classes. The evening also
morning full of delightful performances
included a documentary by the film production
at Arts Morning on May 27. Lewis Dining Hall and
class about the creation of the Art Department’s
the Brown Art Gallery were brimming with a variety
mosaic project. The next morning, parents browsed
of art exhibits featuring ceramics, paintings, and
exhibits and artwork, and were treated to musical
drawings, as well as shop and sewing projects created
performances, dancing, and poetry by students in
by students in the Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools.
Grade 1 through Grade 3. / /
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
11
GRAND FRIENDS Derby Academy welcomed distinguished family and friends of students at Grandparents and Grandfriends Day on April 15. Guests of students in the Primary and Lower Schools joined in reading stories, exploring the classroom, and learning about students’ lessons. Guests of Middle and Upper School students attended classes and presentations, and met with faculty members throughout the morning. / /
12
DERBY ACADEMY
International Night Grade 5 students and their families were treated to a night of world cultures and global perspectives during International Night on April 28. The event marked the culmination of the students’ yearlong study of the traditions, histories, and cultures of countries around the world. Classrooms were transformed into news stations as students played the roles of reporters and anchors broadcasting from all corners of the planet. Each student reported on a country's religion, education, government, language, and heritage, all while focusing on similarities and differences with American culture. Reports addressed current affairs and environmental issues troubling their countries, and offered pragmatic solutions based on research. / /
Lit Letters Earn Honors In February, 37 Derby sixth graders advanced to the second round of judging at the Massachusetts level of the Letters About Literature Competition, and 15 of those students advanced to the semifinal round. Anna Cressman (pictured) was recognized as one of this year’s 14 honors writers, a select group of Commonwealth students celebrated at the State House on March 15. / /
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
13
Negotiation 101 Grade 8 students participated in a daylong International Conflict Workshop on April 21. The course focused on teaching global literacy and conflict-resolution skills as students played the roles of villagers negotiating for resources in the aftermath of the Rwandan Genocide. Carl Hobert, founder of Axis of Hope, an organization dedicated to improving the practice of international and domestic conflict analysis, management and prevention through the education of youth, facilitated the workshop, which was part of the Grade 8 “Becoming a Global Citizen” course. At the conclusion of the workshop, students prepared a signed letter of proposed resolutions that was sent to several government officials, including Secretary of State John Kerry and President Obama. / /
14
Kindergarments
Global Nomads
As part of an “All Dressed Up.” IPC unit, Suniti
On April 11, students in Grade 8 Skyped with our partner
Nimbkar P’12,’20 and Ellora Rich ’12 visited
school from Bhit Shah, Pakistan, discussing leaders who
kindergarteners to demonstrate how to wear a sari,
inspire them, global events, and their findings from
traditionally worn by women in South Asia. / /
their yearlong Global Citizenship Project. / /
DERBY ACADEMY
OUTSIDE VOICES In a rare outdoor performance, students in the Upper School Shakespeare Theater class put on “Macbeth” in the Lower School quad on June 2. / /
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
15
TALENT SHOW With so many acts, the Talent Show turned into a double feature on May 7. Larson Hall was packed for both shows, as students from Pre-K to Grade 6 danced, sang, acted, and performed for friends, family, and classmates. / /
16
DERBY ACADEMY MAGAZINE
Pirate Partnership Pre-K students assisted Grade 8 students in a joint project in physics and pirates. Students were tasked with constructing marshmallow launchers that would mimic cannons used by pirates, which were being taught in the Primary School’s unit. While the eighth graders focused on the physics of the launchers, the team names, decorations, and cheers came from the Pre-K. / /
An Olympic Visit
Young at Heart
On May 26, former Olympic athlete Scott Allan
Our first graders visited residents of the Allerton
GP’21,’22 spoke with students about sailing on the U.S.
House Assisted Living Community on April 28 to sing
team in the 1972 Olympics. He brought the torch he
songs and recite poetry they learned in class. / /
carried as part of the relay team prior to the opening ceremony of the 1996 Olympics. / / SPRING // SUMMER 2016
17
Long Way Down Grade 4 students crossed their fingers and held their breath as they released their egg drop projects off the New North Church in Hingham on June 1. Their designs (hopefully) protected their eggs from the long drop. / /
Derby Unplugged Derby’s first Coffee House on April 29 was a huge success, showcasing all the talent of our Upper School students with musical performances, poetry readings, standup comedy, and dancing. / /
18
DERBY ACADEMY
On Stage, After School The After School Drama Workshop students wowed the audience with their final performance of “How the First Letter Was Written� on May 19. / /
Tide Pool Fun
Go Fly a Kite!
Our kindergarteners dove into the tide pool and
The sky was filled with cloth and colors on June 6 as
met some cute critters with the New England
fifth graders flew the kites they made in sewing class,
Aquarium on May 10. / /
part of their yearlong study of international countries and cultures. / /
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
19
“FIDDLER” A show so good students knew it by one name. Derby's Upper School took its production of “Fiddler on the Roof” to the Larson Hall stage on March 9 and 10. / /
20
DERBY ACADEMY
Building Bridges During their unit on bridges, fifth grade students visited the Fore River Bridge in Quincy, then built their own pasta bridges for a weight-bearing competition. / /
� Back on Course This year a pair of new clubs was made available to students: rowing and golf. Both made for an exciting spring at Derby, on the harbor and the links. / /
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
21
Last
Chapel Following a year of extraordinary growth at Derby Academy, students and faculty gathered to celebrate at Last Chapel. In his opening remarks, Head of School Joe Perry shared reflections on his first year, while Phoebe Kahn delivered the Eighth Grade Address, and graduating students were honored with departmental prizes.
I
began this year’s First Chapel by talking
the branches you spread this year, and how your
to all of you about a seed, a plant, and a
own hard work allowed you to blossom and grow. For
tree; and asking you all to grow this year,
some, this meant improvement on a math test, or
develop in some area, and try something
flawlessly playing a piece in your ensemble. For others,
new. This program today is designed to
acheivement came catching a ball under pressure,
appreciate and acknowledge eighth grade
creating a well-written story, or finally finishing that
individuals who have grown and developed
art project you cared so much about (can anyone say
in specific subjects and areas this year. We
Mosaic?).
will celebrate these successes in a minute. Before we do, I want to reiterate a few things to all of you: growth,
These are all experiences that add to your foundation
branching out, personal achievement.
and fertilize your roots. Every success and even every failure helps prepare you for your future and helps you
Everyone in this room should be acknowledged for
strive toward your goals. Keep this year’s experiences—
these accomplishments. Some of you who have achieved
keep these moments, these memories—with you, and
great personal growth may not have been acknowledged
expand on them in the future.
with honors, and may not receive a physical award this year for your achievements. However, I hope that you all
I want you all to remember what this year has brought
realize your own personal accomplishments. I hope you
you, and how you might build upon everything you
realized and reaped different rewards during the year.
learned in and out of the classroom.
You need to know that your teachers do notice your
For those of you receiving honors this morning, I
efforts; your parents are proud of your progress, and
congratulate you for going beyond, for excelling, for
you all should be happy with your growth and personal
impressing, for working hard. Take these moments
success stories. For some, a handshake or pat on the
from this year with you to your next chapter, where you
back is as shiny and as meaningful as a trophy.
will dig into the new soil of high school, where I know you will all continue to bloom.
These words are not meant to diminish the achievements of anyone receiving accolades this
I commend and congratulate you all on a wonderful
morning, but are meant to remind each and every
and successful year, and I feel honored to have shared it
one of you about your own personal achievements,
with you. / / by JOE PERRY
LAST CHAPEL AWARDS ELVIRA BUTTERWORTH PRIZE FOR HISTORY Ella Benjamin ’16 SUSAN FEINS ’85 PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE Julia Temple ’16 FRANCIS RANIERI MATHEMATICS AWARD Emma Bradley ’16 WHEELWRIGHT FAMILY PRIZE IN ENGLISH Shane Ryan ’16 MICHAEL J. CONNELLY LATIN PRIZE Caden Stone ’16 MARTIGNETTI PRIZE IN MODERN LANGUAGES Isaac Sadhwani ’16 COYLE-DRISCOLL ART PRIZE Kate Rowe ’16 ZILDJIAN MUSIC AWARD Logan Clancy ’16 E. BROOKS ROBBINS COACHES AWARD Dale Harris EDWARD R. FOLEY CITIZENSHIP PRIZE Ellie Mraz ’17 SPIRIT TEAM RECOGNITION Emma Bradley, Kate Rowe, Owen Forman ’16
Although it sometimes may not feel like it, we can trust that our Derby experiences, and the people around us, have prepared us for what’s coming next.
F
ate. It’s amazing how four seemingly
worst. It’s hard to say goodbye to the people who have
harmless letters can lead to so much
been with us no matter what happens. But we also have
apprehension. Are all of our fates
to remember that we are leaving with the big and small
really predetermined, meaning we
impacts we’ve made on each other. The memories we
have little influence over our paths,
have made together have shaped who we are today. They
or do we each hold the power to
have become a part of us that we will hold onto forever.
control our own unique future?
Although it sometimes may not feel like it, we can trust
Frankly, it’s very confusing.
that our Derby experiences, and the people around us, have prepared us for what’s coming next. Through
When I was told that after seven years of living in
the Derby community, we have a sense of security, a
London my family was moving to the United States, I
definition of who we are, and an idea of which direction
definitely did not feel in control.
we will go. A great part of life will always be a mystery, and yes, fate may sometimes choose our paths, but we
It’s hard to remember some of the details of living in
decide how we want to walk them.
London, but I do remember the sadness that went
along with all of the goodbyes. There were too many to
Winston Churchill once said, “We are still masters of
count. They ranged from the nice waiter at my favorite
our fate. We are still captains of our souls.” I believe Mr.
restaurant, to many people in my life who I thought
Churchill was saying that we can greatly control how
were irreplaceable. When I was driving away in the
we respond to what comes our way—making it a good
taxi from that chapter of my life, I realized my deepest emotion wasn’t sadness, but fear.
Tomorrow we will be leaving the
It reminded me of being scared of the dark as a child.
familiarity of our day-to-day lives at
The dark is where the monsters hide, after all. You want to be ready for them, but there is no way to see
Derby Academy. And with that, we are
them coming. No way to predict their movements or
leaving behind a family.
prepare for what comes next. But maybe that’s the point. Maybe instead of running for a night light, we should embrace the darkness. After all, the dark is also where people dream. It’s true that the unknown
or bad thing. Knowing that we can count on ourselves
is the source of our deepest worries, but it’s also the
and those around us will help us face anything life
home of our most cherished hopes.
throws our way—even if it is a monster under the bed. How we receive what life gives us and what we create
This uncertainty can feel overwhelming, which makes
for ourselves truly does make us “captains of our
people believe that the unexpected is something bad.
souls” and our happiness.
Something to be feared. But as I left London, I began
to realize: this change could be an opportunity to
I wish for you, my fellow classmates, a sense of adventure,
meet new people, people who would later turn into
trust, flexibility, and the bravery necessary to carry out
the great friends that I have in this room today.
your hopes and dreams, with tons of friendships and support all around you. From where I stand, I see a group
My fellow eighth graders, tomorrow we will be leaving
of uniquely gifted individuals who are full of potential
the familiarity of our day-to-day lives at Derby Academy.
and ready to tackle the darkness. I’m certain that we
And with that, we are leaving behind a family. We are
will all hit bumps in the road, but once we get to our
leaving the teachers who have believed in us, and we are
destinations we’ll know it was worth the ride. So grab the
leaving all of the amazing people that we have known
wheel with both hands, my friends, because fate is not in
for so long. These are the people who we could always
control. We are! / / by PHOEBE KAHN ’16
count on to see us through life’s ups and downs. They’ve stood with us at our best and helped us through our SPRING // SUMMER 2016
27
Derby Academy Celebrates its 225th Commencement Exercises
AS FAMILIES FILLED THE MCKELVEY GYM, the Class of 2016 stood waiting on 1784 Field, gathered in rows to take photos before the day began to blur with the momentum of concerts and ceremonies, awards and receptions. Derby Day has always gone by fast. This year, the school’s 225th Derby Day, was no exception. The day’s festivities began with Derby’s traditional all-school choral concert, and this year the weather outside was as big a star as the talent on stage— keeping a usually muggy McKelvey Gym (and, later in the day, New North Church) pleasantly cool. Between musical acts, the Derby Day concert paid special tribute to beloved outgoing Head of Primary and Lower School Polly Rizzotto, whose family history and professional career at Derby has influenced countless students, faculty, and community members. A combined chorus of Primary and Lower School singers performed the Shaker song “Simple Gifts” in her honor. Board of Trustees President Maureen Pace then took the podium. “I want to thank each and every one of you in this room,” she said. “It is because of what each of you do every day that Derby is such a special and unique community.” Pace took a moment to reflect on a successful academic year, and to thank the Perry family for their support and leadership during their first year at Derby. Following the concert, students, faculty, trustees, and proud parents accompanied the Class of 2016 along Fearing Road to New North Church, a longstanding Derby Academy tradition. Leading the way were Emma Bradley and Ella Benjamin, the two academically top-ranked graduates.
“I FEEL SO HONORED TO BE PART OF THIS COMMUNITY,” said Head of School Joe Perry, offering opening remarks to guests and congratulating graduates on a successful and memorable year. “And I feel even luckier that my first year at Derby was with you, the Class of 2016. Your role-model behavior has set the stage and demonstrated an expectation for all those who follow you.” Book Awards were then presented by Associate Head of School and Head of Middle and Upper School John Houghton. These books are given to Upper School students who have achieved a grade of A- or better in every major subject for the year. Following Book Awards was the presentation of Derby Academy’s two highest awards, the Madam Sarah Derby Pin and the Academy Pin. These awards are presented to a girl and boy from the eighth grade who embody the values of the Derby community through demonstrated effort, interest, and positive contributions in academics, arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities. Through an endowment established in 2009 by John Harper ’48, these pins are given in memory of his father, Wallace Harper. This year, Caitlin Waugh received the Madam Sarah Derby Pin and Ramez Metri received the Academy Pin. Acting Head of Girls Sports and Physical Education faculty member Lauren Brooks was awarded the Thomas J. Waters Prize for excellence in teaching. / /
30
DERBY ACADEMY
POLLY AND I MET 43 YEARS AGO, WHEN WE WERE HIRED TO OPEN and run a daycare center
at the time, I said she was “an educator’s
Polly’s door has always been open. She
educator.” And, of course, she remains
has always had the time to listen. And
that today.
here, too, the child has always been central to her thinking. Curriculum
on the South Shore. Funding was scarce and so we scrounged. We made room
A few years later, Polly brought me
was important, best practices were
dividers out of Tri-Wall. We found
to Derby, and for 15 years we worked
important, but always, always, the
huge telephone spools and we made
together in Pre-Kindergarten.
child came first.
tables. We visited junkyards and found
Colleagues again, conversations about
truck tires to make swings. We begged
best practices and room arrangement
And now we come to this day—Derby
at paper supply warehouses and we
filled our days. To work with a person
Day. A favorite of hers. This day that we
brought bag after bag of beautiful junk
who is entirely on the same page is a joy.
celebrate her. This day that we honor her, and this day that we thank her.
back from the Children’s Museum. If you had Mrs. Rizzotto for During those days I got to know Polly. I
kindergarten, perhaps you don’t
Thank you for the small gestures and
saw her enthusiasm, her dedication, her
remember specifics, but I bet you
big ideas. Thank you for the fresh
creativity, her legendary organizational
remember a reassuring hand when
flowers on opening day. Thank you for
skills, but most importantly, I learned
you were afraid, or a celebratory cheer
the artfully crafted snacks. Thank you
about how she thought about and
when you accomplished something
for leading us with integrity. Thank you
related to children.
hard, or a welcoming face when
for helping us all be better learners.
starting something new. I am sure
Thank you for keeping it simple and
For Polly, it is always the child who
many parents have stories of that same
letting us all imagine the best.
comes first. The child is at the center of
welcoming face, that reassuring hand,
her planning. The child is what drives
that celebratory cheer when something
Derby will miss you. It will miss
her decisions. It was then, and remains
went well. After a number of years in
your handwritten thank-you notes.
so today. It is a simple idea, but one that
kindergarten, Polly was asked to be
It will miss your civility, your sense
has remarkable results.
Head of Lower School. Now she gave
of humor. It will miss your care and
the welcoming face and the celebratory
respect for children. Godspeed, my
cheer to teachers as well.
friend. Derby will not see the likes of
In 1979, Tom Waters brought Polly to Derby. In the reference I wrote for her
you again! / / by ELLIE DEVINE
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
31
32
DERBY ACADEMY
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
33
34
DERBY ACADEMY
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
35
number
225 Reverend Ken Read-Brown of Hingham’s Old Ship Church delivers the 225th Derby Day Lecture.
Whatever your achievements— academic, athletic—you are every bit as significant and important as the person sitting next to you.
GOOD MORNING—AND A GREAT MORNING IT IS ON THIS BEAUTIFUL DAY. It’s
the vision for the school. All these
our house, and for hours at night—
years later, here we still are. It’s really
summer, winter, it didn’t matter—I
something. And, of course, in those
was up on the little deck with my
very good to be here in New North
early years the Derby Day Lectures
little telescope.
Church. You know, this church is here
were held in Old Ship, New North not
because of an argument that ensued
having been built at the time.
Seeing the moon, with its craters and mountains and plains; seeing the
at our parish in 1805. It was a serious argument. I’m glad I can be back here
Most importantly, it’s an honor to be
planets. Seeing Jupiter, and not just
after all these years.
here so I can offer congratulations
Jupiter, Jupiter with its four moons.
to you, the graduates this year. I was
And then Saturn. How many of you
And indeed, it seems like every 25
pleased to meet a number of you
have seen Saturn with its rings and
years I’m invited to offer the Derby
a couple of weeks ago and attend
Jupiter with its moons through a
Day Lecture. It was an honor in
some of your classes. Those I met
telescope? If you haven’t yet, you have
1991, on the occasion of the 200th
and observed in class, if you’re
got to get yourself a telescope, or at
anniversary of this lecture, and it’s
representative at all of your entire
least borrow one and take a look.
an honor yet again on this, the 225th
class, you are a fine group. A really
anniversary—thank you, Joe, and
fine group, and you’ve got a wonderful
To this day I can remember so clearly
everyone at Derby, for the invitation.
future ahead of you, not just in these
that first day I saw those moons and,
I guess if I’m around in 2041 I may see
next few years, but in your lifetime.
more spectacularly, Saturn’s rings.
some of you again for the 250th. I’ll
I’m so pleased to be here with you
And somehow knowing that these two
mark my calendar in case.
and your families, your friends,
planets were as far away as they are,
faculty and younger students—
and yet they were part of our solar
congratulations. It’s a great day.
system, all of us revolving around the
But another reason it’s an honor to
sun in this plane added to my sense of
be here has to do with what Joe has just shared: this connection [between
When I was about your age I was
Derby Academy and Old Ship Church]
given a telescope. It was not a great
awe and wonder.
that goes back so many years—225
big telescope; it was about as long
Ebenezer Gay and Sarah Derby had
years and more. The connection
as my arm, but it was big enough.
little idea, with all their vision and
between Sarah Derby and Ebenezer
Big enough to open my eyes to the
virtues, of the extent of the universe
Gay, our third minister, which
universe, wider than they had been.
as we’ve come to know it. Way beyond
resulted in Sarah Derby realizing
We had a little deck on the top of
the planets of our solar system, SPRING // SUMMER 2016
37
beyond our galaxy, we know that there
of judgement. Who’s to say, really,
though each of us is but one person
are billions upon billions of galaxies
whether someone is insignificant or
among billions of other human
like our own.
not, or how significant they are? Well
beings, nobody on the planet is more
here’s what I know for sure: every one
than one. And each one of us can
Now, you’ve probably heard some
of you is as significant as the person
choose, as you’ve heard this morning,
people say that looking at the night
sitting next to you.
one way or another, to contribute to
sky, particularly on a dark night
the health and wellbeing of the whole
where you see millions of stars away
Whatever your grades have been,
of humanity, indeed, the whole of life
from city lights, makes them feel small
whatever your achievements—
on Earth. Not all at once, of course; we
and insignificant. Maybe you’ve had
academic, athletic, and so on—you are
each do our part.
that feeling, too. On the other hand, I
every bit as significant and important
came across a cartoon recently; maybe
as the person sitting next to you, and
We face plenty of challenges in our
some of you have seen it, of a scientist
the person sitting next to you is every
nation and in the world. I know that
in a lab. And he’s looking not through
bit as significant and important as you
you know a great deal about these
a telescope, but a microscope, looking
are. Think of a tree full of thousands
challenges—I heard you discussing
no doubt, at very tiny, tiny things. And
of leaves. If leaves could talk, each
some of them in your classes.
to his lab partner, standing off to the
might understandably say, “I’m only
Challenges, from terrorism and other
side, he says, “Makes you feel big and
one leaf among thousands; it really
forms of violence, to discrimination
significant, doesn’t it?”
doesn’t matter whether I’m here or
of all kinds. Poverty and the income
not. I am insignificant.”
gap, hunger, various diseases, and
Well which is it? Are we small and
climate change and a variety of other
insignificant, or big and significant?
Of course the truth of the matter is,
environmental perils. It might be
Here’s what I think, I think those are
as you all know, however small in
easy enough to get depressed about
just words, small or big, significant
relation to the whole tree and the
all of this, and easy for any of us to
or insignificant—matters of size are
thousands of other leaves, that one
think that we can do very little to
always relative. Big Papi is bigger
leaf contributes in absolutely essential
make any real difference. Just like
than I am, but I’m bigger than my
ways, and just as much as the next
one leaf feeling insignificant on an
little 10-month-old grandson. Matters
leaf, to the health of the whole tree.
oak, but not realizing how essential
of significance are only matters
It’s undeniable. It’s just like us. For
that one leaf is, not just to the health
38
DERBY ACADEMY
of the oak, but to the entire forest.
That care goes from generation to
As you live these next years and
That means to our health as well.
generation. Everything we say or do,
throughout your life, you will not
That means to the health of the whole
the example we set.
always know how your words and
world. One leaf.
deeds—your caring—make, or will Whatever you all study in future
make, a difference in someone
So in the same way we don’t always
years, whatever work or career you
else’s life. Sometimes you may feel
know how our actions and our words
follow—the sciences or engineering,
discouraged. Almost everybody does
ripple out into the world, but they
teaching or business, social services,
in their lifetime. I certainly have.
do. They absolutely do, making a
healthcare, or arts—whatever you do,
Sometimes you may even feel small
huge difference in someone’s life,
yes, you’ll be able to contribute, in
and insignificant. Many people do,
sometimes many other lives, and we
some way or another, through that
and I have certainly known that
know it can be for good or ill, so we
work to the larger good of the world.
feeling. Be assured, 2016 graduates—and
ought to watch our words and watch
Everyone does, helping to meet one
everyone else, for that matter—that
our deeds. We’re not going to be
or another of those big challenges
what you say or do, whether in your
perfect, but everything we say or do
that we face. But every day, including
eventual work or in your daily life, does
makes a difference.
this one, with a thoughtful word or
matter every bit as much as the caring
deed or caring for another person,
words or deeds of anyone else.
I had a piano teacher when I was young, probably about your age. His name was Ray Koos, and he was a very good piano teacher. Maybe not quite a good enough piano teacher for me—I don’t play the piano much anymore. Mostly, as a few of you know, I play the banjo and guitar, so the music kept on, but not the piano. Mr. Koos was not only my piano teacher, he was a family friend and he was a friend to me. The fact that Mr. Koos cared about me as a person
Everyone is needed for the health and wellbeing of life on Earth. Every bit as much as the oak needs every leaf...And so I invite you to live, and care, today and
In spite of everything we see in the daily news, this is a beautiful world and an amazing universe. Get that telescope. Life in this world needs the whole team of human beings, everyone finding their part, which is glorious. Everyone is needed for the health and wellbeing of life on Earth.
every day, remembering this. Live
Every bit as much as the oak needs
this way as if you really know it, in
or the orchestra every violin; or the
your mind and in your heart.
ended up being a longer-lasting
every leaf, or the chorus every voice; uke ensemble every uke; or the lab every scientist—on it goes. I invite you to live, and care, today and every day,
gift than anything I learned about
we—all of us, like Mr. Koos, like
remembering this. Live this way as if
scales and arpeggios. My father was
my father, like Mrs. Rizzotto—can
you really know it, in your mind and
a surgeon—he saved lives, but that
help meet the critical challenge of
in your heart.
was not his effect on me—made a
what so often seems to be the most
difference because of walks around
perennial shortage in our world:
Perhaps I’ll see you again in 25 years,
the block that he invited me on when
that shortage of compassion and
if not sooner. Whether or not I do, I
I was having a problem or trouble
kindness and love and care.
know that this world is already, and will
about one thing or another. That’s how he influenced me.
be a better place, maybe much better, An MIT graduate (who was no doubt
because of you. Thank you all for being
very smart because he just graduated
you, and thank you for all that you do
Think of teachers you’ve had—think
from MIT) said at graduation just a
already, and will do, in this beautiful
of Polly Rizzotto. Think of Polly, and
little while ago, “People don’t care
world of ours. Thank you, and God bless
think of the care, from one person
about how much you know until
you all. / / by REV. KEN READ-BROWN
to another, that she’s exemplified. I
they know how much you care.”
knew Polly’s dad; I know of her family.
Mind and heart, again. SPRING // SUMMER 2016
39
MATRICU
CLASS OF 2016 Jared Arevian
St. Sebastian's School
Grace Babb Ella Benhamin
Beaver Country Day School Buckingham Browne & Nichols
Olivia Boardman
Dana Hall School
Thayer Academy
Peter Loiselle
Choate Rosemary Hall School
Natalie Maher
Noble and Greenough School
John McKenna
Thayer Academy Milton Academy
Emma Bradley
Milton Academy
Ramez Metri
Thomas Briggs
Thayer Academy
Griffin Mudge
Bradford Campbell
Thayer Academy
Avery O'Connor
Logan Clancy
Thayer Academy
Daniel O'Hare
Sadie Compson
Thayer Academy
Harrison Quillen
Noble and Greenough School
Caitlin Rowe
Cambridge School of Weston
Phelps Compton
Boston College High School
Grace Dewire
Hingham High School
Hunter Ruddick
Taalib Dibinga-Robinson
Cathedral High School
Shane Ryan
Casandra Douglass Owen Forman
Marshfield High School Hingham High School CATS Academy
Hingham High School Concord Academy
Falmouth Academy
Isaac Sadhwani
Thayer Academy
Boston College High School
Luke Sadhwani
Thayer Academy
Caroline Garvey
Buckingham Browne & Nichols
Peyton Semjen
Anna Garvey
Buckingham Browne & Nichols
Robert Sheridan
Lillian Garvey
Buckingham Browne & Nichols
Caden Stone
CATS Academy
Bronwyn Jensen
Noble and Greenough School
Julia Temple
Noble and Greenough School
Phoebe Kahn
40
Adam Lazowski
DERBY ACADEMY
Thayer Academy
Caitlin Waugh
Hingham High School Thayer Academy
Milton Academy
ULATION
CLASS OF 2012
Charlotte Allard Emily Barron
University of North Carolina Boston College
Dan Kylander Zach Lowe
Durham University Endicott College
Charlotte Bosworth Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Abbie McLean
Brendan Carroll
Loyola University Maryland
Grace McMeekin
Elon University
William Chave
College of the Holy Cross
Grace McNichols
University of North Carolina
Aly Clinton
Northeastern University
Graham McOsker
Becca Collins Bri Condon Jardel Costa Caroline Daley
University of Alabama Tulane University Northeastern University Middlebury College
J.D. Dietrich
St. Sebastian's School
Avery Devlin
University of Miami
Maddie Dewire
Amherst College
Maggie Di Pesa
Loyola University Maryland
Andie Minicus Reese Moehlenkamp Madeline Murphy Grace Nedeau Jack Noonan Regan O'Donnell Dak Ojuka Ellora Rich
Caley Drooff
Cornell University
Mike Durkin
Stonehill College
Andrew Scheerer
Brown University
Graham Schwandt
Kelsey Farden Cali Giuggio Kyle Heffernan Brian Humphreys Shauna Kennedy Amy Kirk Karlee Koswick
Pomona College Bryant University UMass Amherst Suffolk University Denison University
Sammy Rowell
Lanie Schwartz Eric Seewald Matthew Tracy
Fordham University
Hamilton College University of Virginia Sarah Lawrence College Harvard University Savannah School of Art & Design Providence College Gap Year Providence College Swarthmore College Bryant University The Hotchkiss School Hobart & William Smith University of Sydney Duke University Brandeis University
Cassie Warwick
Colgate University
Maura Woods
Boston University
Villanova University
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
41
42
DERBY ACADEMY
After 37 years at Derby, Polly Rizzotto has retired. Her legacy of caring classrooms, kind students, and flowering gardens will blossom for years to come.
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
43
school
picking cherry tomatoes and they’d
next step, and
is much
find a worm, or heaven forbid we
she does it with
like a
found a grub!”
encouragement
garden—
because she
both must
Polly’s tenure at Derby started in 1979
believes in
be cared
as a faculty member in the Primary
children.”
for and
School, but her family’s roots here
cultivated
run even deeper. Her grandfather
Polly’s teaching
in order
Dr. Charles Tilden Howard attended
and leadership
to sprout,
Derby as a student and later served as
styles are founded
grow, and produce. Year after year,
Chairman of the Board of Trustees,
in respect.
the young minds and hearts of Derby
guiding the school through the Great
Whether it’s
Academy have thrived thanks to the
Depression. Polly’s mother, Carol
welcoming the
love and respect of Polly Rizzotto,
Howard Robinson, along with several
children to the
who is retiring after more than four
aunts and uncles, also attended
school, working
decades of teaching. And gardening,
Derby through Grade 12. Polly’s
on the Diversity
of course.
mother returned to Derby to teach
Committee,
kindergarten and first grade, and
or supporting
Throughout the years, gardens
then later to head the Lower School
the Responsive
and flower beds at Derby have
for 13 years. Polly’s children, Daniel
Classroom—Derby’s
provided generations of students
and Amy, attended Derby from Pre-K
social curriculum
the opportunity to learn the science
through Grade 8.
that helps children
and art of caring for a garden. One of
develop a positive
Polly’s favorite memories is tending
“I have a sense of continuity when I’m
self-image and
the Lower School garden with her
here,” says Polly. “Not just in my work,
communicate with
students as they learned of her
but in the relationships I build. I feel
respect—the needs
passion for gardening.
as if it’s an ongoing experience my
of each child are
mother would have had.”
paramount to
“We’d be outside with the children
Polly. Judie Stolp,
and they would just drift into the
That ongoing experience is echoed
Head of the Lower
garden,” Polly remembers. “They’d be
when Polly joins students on tours
School from 1994 to 2002,
of historic downtown Hingham or
immediately saw that virtue permeate
walks in the Derby Day parade down
Polly’s interactions with the children.
Fearing Road, the same path her mother took years ago.
“I love the way Polly respected what people would do and what people
Four generations of Polly’s family
said,” says Stolp. “Her legacy is her
have intertwined with countless lives
ability to listen, to take what she
at Derby, but it was students who
had heard and use it in a respectful
first felt Polly’s impact at the school.
way, for children, for parents, and
Longtime friend Ellie Devine has
for her colleagues.”
been working with Polly for 45 years.
44
DERBY ACADEMY
“Above all,” says Devine, “she respects
Former Head of School Ed Foley
the child. She knows the way to guide
remembers Polly’s ability to teach
children from where they are to the
not only the standard lessons in
develop,” says Polly. “It’s so
school recognized Polly’s decades of
satisfying to still be able
service. To a standing ovation, the
to have a relationship and
school announced plans to construct
to feel like you know these
the Polly Rizzotto Greenhouse for
kids even though they’re 10
Teaching and Learning, the perfect
years older.” The multiple
combination of her passions.
levels of relationships have been hugely satisfying, she
Celebrating and enjoying the process
says. Rather than treating
of early childhood education, like
the children as simply five,
gardening, is essential for Polly.
six, or seven year-olds, Polly
There are setbacks, there are barriers,
thinks of her students as
but there are also successes. “If you
people in different stages in
think of a garden as only the product
their development. “It’s that
you’re going to get in the end, you’re
relationship piece,” she says. “I
going to have disappointments and
feel the respectful relationship
frustrations,” says Polly. “If you think
is more important than
of a garden as a process, and you
anything else.”
enjoy what you’re doing along the way, you get a result that’s terrific.”
In 2013, after years as a faculty member in pre-kindergarten and
Today, Derby Academy is in full
kindergarten, Polly transitioned
bloom. / / by CONNOR GLEASON
into an administrative role as the Head of the Primary and Lower School, leading a new generation of faculty members. And although Head of School Joseph Perry arrived at Derby just as Polly announced her retirement, it was clear to him that Polly’s influence on the community, academics
faculty, students, and the atmosphere
and arts at that age, but also how
of the school was profound.
to be good people and to be good to each other.
“Polly is one who cares not only about the faculty and the students,
“I used to love watching the kids
but really about culture. It’s a
throughout every year,” says Foley.
warm, welcoming environment and
“By the end of the year, they’d have so
that really stems from all of Polly’s
much more self-confidence than they
experience,” says Perry. “She’s all
ever had before thanks to Polly.”
about making sure students feel comfortable, making sure they are
For Polly, the joy in education is
developing appropriately and really
watching a child develop during
providing them the confidence and
his or her time at Derby. “You see
security to grow at their own pace.”
them bloom and their character
On the morning of Derby Day, the
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
45
M
Golf & Tennis Tournament ore than 150 guests gathered for
to connect with members of the Derby community
the Derby Academy Golf and Tennis
participating in golf and tennis: trustees, current and
Tournament at Black Rock Country Club
incoming parents, alumni, parents of alumni, current
in Hingham on May 31. It was a day full
and former grandparents, as well as current and
of friendly competition and wonderful opportunities
46
DERBY ACADEMY
former faculty and friends. / /
NEWS
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
47
Waters Reception Alumni from the Tom Waters era at Derby returned for a reception on May 5. Among the attendees were guests Ronnie Waters and former Heads of School Ed Foley and Debbie Callahan. / /
Celebrating our Leaders Derby Academy hosted its annual Leadership Reception at Tosca in Hingham on December 3. The event brought together 80 current and past parents, alumni, faculty, and friends to recognize and celebrate leadership donors for their generous and continued support of Derby. Trustee Hugh Kelly P’19 thanked the school’s donors for their amazing contributions, and spoke about the unparalleled educational experiences that the Annual Fund makes possible for Derby students. / /
48
DERBY ACADEMY MAGAZINE
E T H E DAT V E SA
AUCTION
a n d
r e c e p t i o n
at old derby academy
friday​, may 5, 2017
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
49
Sarah Pickering ’00 married Rob Gagliard on May 7, 2016, in Bretton Woods, NH.
NOTES
1940
1950
1960
art school for sculpture. My teacher was
great-granddaughter Aivree who is
Jordan Meads, presented us our fourth
Mr. Marzonine. He encouraged me to
five years old and has the smarts of an
grandchild, Joseph Alexander Meads on
be serious about my animal sculpture
eight-year-old according to her teachers.
July 16, 2015!
which was my specialty. I had several
Aivree lives in Laramie, Wyoming.
commissions after graduating. That is
I get to see her twice a year. We’re
why I am grateful to Derby Academy.”
pushing for Smith but maybe Stanford
1970
Claire Everett Low ’42 writes: “I got my start in art and went to post-graduate
Betsy Bohaker Wood ’56 writes: “I continue to be so proud of my beautiful
someday!” John Harper ’48 writes: “Have lived in London since 2004 with Audrey,
Sarah Hitchcock-De Gregori ’58 writes:
my wife of 58 years. Also living here in
“I’ve retired from Rutgers University.
London are our two daughters, each
Alessandro and I have moved to Lenox,
with two daughters of their own. Oldest
MA, where I will be writing a biography.
granddaughter is in her first year at
This past year has been a time of
Oxford, studying engineering. While
reconnecting with Derby friends, best
recently viewing the TV version of
of all.”
“John Adams,” when 1784 was flashed on the screen, I proudly thought of Derby.”
50
DERBY ACADEMY
Patricia Peacock Akstin ’65 writes: Our daughter and son-in-law, Amy and
Hope Swift ’71 writes: “Still managing Swift Yacht Charters (since 1987). Still married to Dudley Baker (since 1988). Daughter Bliss is 23. Still living in Sherborn. Still sail out of Padanaram, South Dartmouth.” Jonathan Woods ’78 is the newly installed President-General of the Society of the Cincinnati—a historic organization his family has been
involved with for years. Jon’s father
and museum at Anderson House in
in April’s edition of New Hampshire
received the Lafayette Eagle for
Washington, D.C.
Magazine. After graduating from Derby,
extraordinary service a few years
Liz went on to Hingham High School,
ago, and now he wears the original
Raymond Shaw ’79 writes: “After almost
graduated with honors in pre-med
Washington Diamond Eagle, which
29 years in the automotive field, I have
from Harvard University and then
French naval officers commissioned
begun a new career. I am working for
on to the University of Massachusetts
for George Washington in 1784 and
FedEx at Logan Airport. Airplanes
Medical School. She is board-certified in
became the badge of office of the
and airports have always been of great
Public Health and Preventive Medicine
Society’s president general. The Society
interest to me. I am part of a team that
and Family Medicine, and now serves
of the Cincinnati is the nation’s oldest
guides the aircraft in and out of the
as a nocturnist at the Elliot Hospital in
patriotic organization, founded in 1783
gates and downloads/uploads freight.
Manchester, NH. Liz and her husband,
by officers of the Continental Army and
I have been there three years now and
Pete, have three children and live in
their French counterparts who served
enjoy very much working outside with
Londonderry, NH.
together in the American Revolution.
the aircraft and with a great group of
Its mission is to promote knowledge
people. Hope everyone is well!”
Jodi Samuels ’87 writes: “I was
and appreciation of the achievement of
1980
promoted in August 2015 to Deputy
doctors in New Hampshire, voted
included a small-ship cruise with my
American independence and to foster fellowship among its members. Now a nonprofit educational organization devoted to the principles and ideals of its founders, the modern Society maintains its headquarters, library,
Liz Kilmartin Saich ’87 was recently named as one of the top hospitalist by her professional peers and listed
Director of Development & Training at the California Primary Care Association, and celebrated my fouryear anniversary at the end of January 2016. Travel adventures this year mom to the Scottish Isles & Norwegian SPRING // SUMMER 2016
51
Fjords with Smithsonian Journeys,
Orpheus and Eurydice, with the
Having played all four seasons on
and my spouse, Evan, and I took a
Opera Grand Rapids in Grand Rapids,
Harvard’s men’s lacrosse team, Will
tour of Costa Rica just after Christmas
Michigan. Please be sure to follow his
Walker ’07 had a banner year. He
in December.”
exciting work at www.zachfinkelstein.
was named the Ivy League Player of
com.
2000
the Week after setting a career-high
John Rounseville ’87 and wife Ann welcomed daughter Colette Lausier Rounseville on December 7, 2015. Colette joins sister Bree and brother Luke. Cara Marquis ’88 and husband Jim
in points—six goals and one assist—in a win over Princeton in April. The victory clinched a spot in the Ivy
Nina Stavris Davies ’01 and Charlie
League Tournament where Harvard
Davies celebrated the arrival of twin
was defeated by Yale in the first round.
boys, Rhys and Dakota, born on
Will finished his career with more
March 17, 2016.
than 100 points scored, and posted the
Mondani celebrated the arrival of
most goals scored by a Harvard student-
son Henry “Bo” Bosun Mondani, on
Matt Trevithick ’01 writes: “I’m
November 20, 2015.
1990
based in Turkey these days, working
May 20, 2016.
Amy Hollstein Wissman ’03 and
leave the program better than when we
Justin Wissman welcomed son
arrrived.” His younger brother Harry
Edward Dunn ’95 and Kim Chee:
Declan Robert Wissman, born on
’10, who also played along side him for
Gabriel Edward Dunn born on May
December 28, 2015.
two years at Thayer, joined him again
Tobey Horn ’93 and wife Delia
athlete that season.
on refugee issues with a company I
Tim Giarrusso ’08 finished his lacrosse
founded that runs needs assessments
career at Middlebury strong. In an
for the UN and NGOs, it’s all quite
interview with the Boston Globe, he
fascinating—if depressing—work.”
said, “We had an extremely strong
welcomed Elise Marie Horn, born on
group of seniors who worked hard to
7, 2016, joins three older sisters:
on the same team at Middlebury.
Cassandra (14), Alexandra (11) and
Dan Morrissey Martin ’06 left for
Rowan (6).
Zambia in February where he is a
Ann Marie Hanabury ’08 graduated
rural aquaculture volunteer for the
magna cum laude from Providence
Emmy Spenlinhauer ’96 and Jesse
Peace Corps. The province where he
College in May. She majored in
Wychules: Calvin H. Wychules born
is located has depleted farmland.
Finance and was inducted into the
on November 18, 2015.
He will be using his marine science
Beta Gamma Sigma National Business
degree from the University of Miami
Administration Honor Society.
Cory Cramer ’97 and Kate Fox: Willa
and his experience as an at-sea
Cramer born on March 30, 2016.
monitor with the New England
The Boston Globe recently released
fishing industry to build tilapia farms
its All-Scholastic list, which included
Zach Finkelstein ’98 (Tabor ’01, McGill
and give the people of Zambia an
Charlotte Allard ’12 (Notre Dame
’04) has quickly established himself
easy to manage, sustainable source of
Academy ’16); All-Scholastic Morgan
as a leading tenor soloist in North
protein.
Caron ’12 (Notre Dame Academy
America and abroad, from Seattle’s
’16); Eric Seewald ’12 (Duxbury High
Benaroya Hall to New York’s Lincoln
Melissa Bonn ’07 has moved to
School ’16); Amy Kirk ’12 (Hingham
Center to London’s Sadler’s Wells to
Baltimore, MD, after graduating in
High School ’16); Charlotte Bosworth
the National Art Center in Beijing,
May 2015 from Loyola University
’12 (Pembroke High School ’16); Mike
China. In early April, Zach played the
and is working in marketing at the
Durkin ’12 (Hingham High School ’16);
lead part of Orpheus in Christoph
Baltimore Sun.
and Maddie Dewire ’12 (Milton ’16).
Willibald Gluck’s baroque opera,
52
DERBY ACADEMY
Dave Potter ’65 with his mother Ruth Potter. Dave was in Hingham visiting his mother the same day lower school students sang for residents of the Allerton House.
It’s all smiles as the Oliver family was all together and spent their family vacation in Hawaii last December. (l-r) Ann Marie Oliver, Will Oliver ’06, Rob Oliver ’05, Lauren Oliver ’13, Ryan Oliver ’03, James Oliver, Scott Oliver.
Class of 2012 alumni gathered at the McOskers' in Nauset Beach—even the rain couldn’t keep them off the beach. (l-r): Will Chave, Zach Lowe, Avery Devlin, Graham Schwandt, Graham McOsker, Dak Ojuka, and Brendan Carroll.
Doyle Calhoun ’08 (Tabor ’12), a May graduate of Boston College, was awarded a J. William Fulbright grant. Doyle was a linguistics and French major at Boston College and will continue his work on a digitized language database of Niger-Congo languages at the University of Leuven in Belgium. The Fulbright program, established in 1946, is an international exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Government.
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
53
Last December, some Derby alums gathered for a festive photo. (l-r): Mike Fallon ’96, Michelle Buckley ’94, Kate Fallon ’94, Kate Scott Green ’94, Jon Winslow ’94, Rob Forker ’94.
Early this spring, Derby classmates Harry Giarrusso ’10 (Thayer ’14, Middlebury ’18) and Shawn Daly ’10 (Marshfield High School ’14, Bowdoin ’18) were re-united at a lacrosse game.
Members of the St. Paul's School’s FIRST Robotics team made history with its first-ever victory at the New England District University of New Hampshire Event in March. Team captain
SEND us your NOTES
Karlee Koswick ’12 led fellow Vidsters in the engineering challenge of wits and skills against other schools from across New England. The St. Paul's team then moved on to the New England
We want to know what's going on in your life, from college and career news, to birth and wedding announcments!
District Championship in Hartford, CT, in April.
Send your notes and photos to us at alums@derbyacademy.org.
BIRTHS
①
Bea Ghita Murphy ’97 and Brian Murphy celebrated the arrival of Madelyn Nicole Murphy, born on April 8, 2016.
②
①
Justin Coleman ’99 and Rachel Coleman welcomed Arthur Francis Coleman on March 30, 2016.
④
③
and Pat Hayes welcomed Samuel Rowe Hayes on March 17, 2016. (pictured: Sam and big brother Charlie).
④
②
Caroline Curtis Hayes ’99
Gardner Loring ’99 and Martha Loring welcomed Rose Leland Loring on December 21, 2015.
⑤
Kara Gaughen Smith ’99 and Damien Smith welcomed Conor Gregory Smith on February 4, 2016.
⑤
⑥
Emily Zildjian Hill ’97 and Lawrence Hill welcomed Lillian (Lily) Zildjian Hill born on January 4, 2016.
Birth annoucements that were received without accompanying photos are listed under “Class Notes.”
③
⑥
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
55
①
②
⑤
⑥
WEDD ①
Lee Sargent ’93 and Toviah
②
Amanda Brophy ’03 and Josh
③
Andrew Mayer ’99 to Veronica
Tivoli, NY.
Gonya on June 4, 2016, in Scituate, MA.
Mendiola on February 6, 2016, in Miami Beach. They met at Wharton while earning their
③ ④
Narva on May 21, 2016, in
MBAs and were engaged in Siasconset on Nantucket in 2014. They live and work in New York City.
④
Emily Lamb ’04 and Franco
⑤
Lauren Cahill ’00 to Will Davis
Mattera on January 9, 2016, in Boston.
on October 24, 2015, in San Francisco, CA. (l-r) Mark Cahill, Will Davis, Lauren Cahill Davis, Jane Cahill, Dave Cahill ’04.
56
DERBY ACADEMY
⑦
DINGS Michelle Ricketts ’99 to Gregg
Woodworth on October 23, 2015, in Buzzards Bay, MA. Lucas (age 9),
⑥
Michelle, Gregg, Andrew (age 13). Faculty Member Michele Fedele to Jeff Dodge on June 4, 2016, in Dennis, MA. Hans “Toffer” Noering ’03 to Andrea Martorello on June 18, 2016, in Cohasset, MA. Longtime Derby friend
⑦ ⑧
⑧
⑧
Ned MacPherson ’03 was best man. Photo: Charlie Juliet Joe Comras ’05 to Audrey Mcgonicle on May 14, 2016, in Washington, DC.
⑨
Peter Lamb ’04 and Erin Coffey on June 18, 2016, in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Kate Lenehan ’99 to Greg Perez on December 15, 2015.
⑨
MEMORIAM Derby Academy wishes to express its sincere condolences to the family and friends of the following:
William Guild ’42
Samuel Sylvester ’51
December 13, 2015
August 9, 2015 Sam grew up in Norwell, and after
Bill was born in Boston and grew up and lived most of
Derby, graduated from St. Paul’s
his life in Hingham. After Derby, he graduated from
School and then Middlebury
Phillips Exeter Academy and then Harvard University.
College. Subsequently, Sam became
He was a good student and athlete and played varsity
an accomplished insurance agent
soccer and lacrosse at both institutions. In addition,
and financial advisor —he founded
he was captain of his wrestling team at Exeter and was
Sylvester Associates, a retirement
awarded the Yale Cup as the outstanding athlete of the
and insurance planning firm,
class of 1942.
with his sons in 1994. Sam was an athlete, coach, adventurer and
Bill served in the Navy during WWII as an ensign
great friend. After college he drove
aboard a Landing Ship Tank in the Pacific Theater. He
a motorcycle across the country and later rode his bicycle
married Barbara Connolly in 1950 and together they
from Seattle to Atlantic City for the benefit of the American
raised three children (two of them attended Derby:
Lung Association. Sam loved being on the water, sailing
William Guild ’66 and Peter Guild ’69). With the
and racing along the east coast and to Bermuda, Portugal,
enthusiastic help of his wife, Bill imparted his love of
and the Caribbean. He was an avid skier and traveled the
the outdoors, athletics, and the importance of learning
world with family and friends, leaving his mark along the
to his children.
way with his charm, wit and generosity. Sam is survived by his wife of 53 years; his four sons and daughters-in-law; his nine grandchildren; his brothers, Jim ’55 and John ’59; and many Sylvester cousins and wonderful friends.
58
DERBY ACADEMY
Martin “Marty” Lynch May 23, 2016 Marty passed away this spring after battling cancer. While he enjoyed a distinguished career at many professional Boston theatres, his greatest passion was teaching students of all ages. While his time at Derby was short, his impact was profound. He taught lighting and sound design in the Larson Hall control booth, and worked closely with the sixth grade during the “Lion King JR.” Marty is survived by his wife, Ann, children James and Sam, and mother, Dorothy. John Sadler P’99,’02,’06 January 17, 2016 Father to Jennifer ’99, Elizabeth ’02, and Christopher ’06. John served on the Board of Trustees from 1999 to 2006.
John Sargent ’90
In thanks for his generosity, two areas in the Roy Campus
February 3, 2016 John passed away unexpectedly at the age of 41. He was the beloved son of Frances Sargent of Charlottesville, VA, and David Sargent of Hingham; and loving brother to Lee ’93 and Tyler Sargent ’93, John was raised in Hingham and graduated from Thayer Academy. Alice Louise (MacArthur) Scholtes April 28, 2016 Alice was the beloved mother to Christopher ’74 and Peter ’75. She taught art at Derby for 25 years, and until her death, was the school’s oldest living faculty member.
Center are named for the Sadler family—the Sadler Conference Room and the Sadler Fitness Center. John Riley P’91,’98, ’04,’06 April 8, 2016 John was the father of Marie Riley Woollacott ’91, Jason Riley ’98, Benjamin Riley ’04, and Nathan Riley ’06. He was president of F. Riley Construction, which has generously donated its services to Derby over the years. Charles “Chip” Flaherty P’11,’13 April 9, 2016 Father to Charles ’11 and Audrey ’13, Chip was a great friend and loyal supporter of the school, serving on Derby’s Annual Fund Committee in 2005. He is survived by his children and his wife, Rebecca.
Louise was a wonderful woman who will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.
SPRING // SUMMER 2016
59
derby network Follow Derby Academy on
Facebook, Twitter & Instagram!
/ derbyacademy
@derbyacademy
@derby.academy