Millbrook, Summer 2025

MILLBROOK’S MISSION

In a community where every student is known and needed, Millbrook prepares its students for college and lives of meaning and consequence by instilling the values of respect, integrity, service, stewardship, and curiosity.

Millbrook School attracts talented high schoolers from all over the world. International student Roy Ahn ’25 made an animated video titled Just Talk which was selected by the United Nations’ PLURAL+ Youth Video Festival.

Howard Tu ’25 and Evan Sun ’25 are two students heading off to college with scientific journal publishing credits already next to their names.

Our faculty are true experts in their fields, and when students study with active researchers and passionate mathematicians, education comes alive.

Millbrook

Front Cover: Painting by Sarah Buttacavoli ’26

Back Cover: Photo by Melvin Brinson Jr.

a magazine for alumni, parents and friends of millbrook school

EDITOR

Michelle Blayney

DESIGN

Proof Design

CONTRIBUTORS

Michelle Blayney, Aaron Case, Alex Pearson

PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS

Michelle Blayney, Melvin Brinson Jr., Daniel Cohen ‘86, Honors Photo Students, Alex Pearson, Jeff Zelevansky

MILLBROOK is published by the Communications Office and Alumni & Development Office of Millbrook School for alumni, parents, and friends of the school. Contents may be reproduced or reprinted only by permission of the editor. Opinions expressed do not reflect the official position of Millbrook School.

Millbrook School

131 Millbrook School Road

Millbrook, NY 12545

Phone: 845-677-8261

Website: www.millbrook.org

EDITOR’S CORRECTION:

In celebrating the retirement of Bob Anthony ’65 in the fall of 2024, we mentioned his working with Mr. Pulling and published an incorrect date for Mr. Pulling’s retirement. Thank you to Dorian Dale ’68 who correctly noted that Mr. Pulling retired in the spring of 1965.

We also correct two missed photo credits in the fall 2024 publication.

Photos of Barbara Gatski: page 62 - John Dolan P’13, ’15, ’17 page 63 - Yannis Malevitis

ALUMNI & DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

Director of Advancement

Natalie Smith

Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo Director of Philanthropy

Nancy Stahl

Director of Advancement Operations

Caitlin Kiley

Director of Principal & Major Gifts

Keith Del Valle

Associate Director of Principal & Major Gifts

Mimi Babock

Director of Alumni Engagement

Nicolas Ugarte

Advancement Office Manager

Cori Bloxsom

Director of Advancement Services

Shannon Williams

Advancement Database Manager

Terry Konrath

Special Programs Coordinator

Diane Dalton

COMMUNICATIONS

OFFICE

Chief Communications Officer

Michelle Blayney

Director of Multimedia Content

Alex Pearson

Writer/Editor

Aaron Case

Multimedia Content Creator

Melvin Brinson Jr.

Graphic Designer

Meghan Perch

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Chairman

William L. Menard ’78, P’09, ’12, ’12

Vice Chairman

Paul M. Solomon ’61, P’98

Treasurer

John Tuke P’18

Head of School

Jonathan R. Downs ’98

J’nelle N. Agee ’06

Samantha Boardman, MD P’24, ’26

Francisco L. Borges ’70

Thomas Buttacavoli P’26, ’28

Kelly Macaluso Coles ’86, P’19

Trevor L. Colhoun ’95

Morgan C. Conrad ’99

Darcie Crystal P’24, ’25

Constantine M. Dakolias P’22

Philip J. Drury P’24, ’26

Christopher C. Holbrook ’82, P’11, ’12, ’14

Theodore S. Karatz ’96

Alison J. Marsal ’06

Gordon S. Pennoyer ’99

Steve Rodgers P’23, ’25

Steven Romick P’26

Gilbert P. Schafer III ’80

Lisa P. Selz P ’12, ’17

Paul M. Simons ’83, P’17, ’19

Paul Stafford P’16, ’19, ’23

James Vitiello P’23

Honorary Trustees:

Farnham F. Collins ’53, GP’17

William L. Crossman ’74, P’09

William R. Hettinger ’77, P’01, ’04

Bruce B. Huber ’47

William B. McNamara ’75

NON DISCRIMINATION

Millbrook School adheres to a long-standing policy of admitting students of any race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its education policies, admission policies, financial aid program, or other school-administered programs.

ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

Millbrook magazine is printed on stock that is manufactured with 10% postconsumer fiber using renewable energy. It is FSC certified.

Introduction from Head of School Jonathan R. Downs ’98

Adolescent brain researchers have long agreed on a fundamental principle of learning: when a child has an emotional connection to a person, an activity, or a subject, they retain more, work harder, engage more deeply, and rebound more quickly from failure. This idea reflects a timeless truth about the human condition. Relationships matter most. Emotional connection is essential to an excellent education.

The stories shared in the following pages illustrate the magic of Millbrook and the transformative power of relationships. Here, the bonds we forge don’t simply enable the transmission of knowledge and skill—they ignite passion, curiosity, and the confidence to be bold, to pursue truth, and to live lives of meaning and consequence. The relationship between Frank Trevor and Thomas Lovejoy ’59 exemplifies this power—a bold teacher, a curious student, and a big idea. The result?

A better world. This is the Millbrook recipe, one that so many in our alumni body know well.

I encourage you to take your time with this issue and reflect on the relationships that have shaped you at Millbrook and beyond. When did a teacher make you feel like you truly mattered? How has that experience—of being seen, heard, and valued—stayed with you?

I wish every child in the world could experience what we work to create every day at Millbrook.

As we continue finding ways to unlock the potential of every student, I’m reminded of what Fred Rogers once said: “I don’t think anyone can grow unless he is loved exactly as he is now, appreciated for what he is rather than what he will be.”

Within these pages, I suspect you’ll be inspired by the power of student-teacher relationships—the kind of learning that goes far beyond books—and the mission we promise to uphold. Mattering is the very essence of transformational education, and no school does it better than Millbrook.

Enjoy!

Jonathan Downs ’98 Head of School

Cooper McGuire ’25 (left) and Marcus Paul Jr. ’27 (right) trade shots during the Winter Weekend ping pong championship.

Students get hands on in small biology classes, learning from the best, Gordie MacKenzie ’79, who returned to Millbrook to work 33 years ago.

Third formers gather in a time-honored tradition in Pulling House for a reading by Head of School Jonathan Downs ’98.

Millbrook Moments

Millbrook stays green all year thanks to our indoor greenhouse and recycled clothes for sale at Milly Thrift.

Millbrook Moments

Roy Ahn ’25 crafts his masterpiece in an inspired setting.

These hills were made for sledding.

Millbrook Matters

ACADEMICS, ATHLETICS, ARTS, AND STUDENT LIFE

Academics

Learning never stops at Millbrook. From teachers traveling the world for professional development during the summer months to industry luminaries dropping in to lead classes, Millbrook students and faculty are always pursuing new knowledge.

TEACHERS AS STUDENTS

To better practice their pedagogy, Millbrook educators often step away from the whiteboard and become students themselves. Through the Annual Fund and other endowed programs, Millbrook’s educators benefit from constant learning through summer professional development programs.

DRIVING CHANGE FROM WITHIN:

Zhaohong Wen

Leading up to the start of the school year, Zhaohong Wen, chair of the World Language Department and Mandarin instructor, attended a particularly helpful seminar at Pomfret School’s Grauer Institute. Over a week, Wen and other educators from around the country immersed themselves in the topic of “Driving School Change from Within.” The program focused on department chairs like Wen, who emphasized the value of becoming a student again.

“I’m new to this chair position. I’m a student here, too,” she said, referencing her recent appointment. With that attitude of embracing learning—and a positive review from Millbrook Art Department Chair Joe Raciti, who attended the training the year prior—Wen eagerly volunteered to head to Pomfret’s Connecticut campus.

According to Wen, the professional development dovetailed perfectly with Millbrook’s mission of knowing and needing every student. The training reminded her that to lead her department effectively, she would need to view her interactions with faculty through a coaching lens and determine team members’ value priorities like friendship, fairness, and autonomy. Then, in any given situation, she can draw on that information to communicate and collaborate more efficiently and effectively. Understanding these unique perspectives can help a department leader navigate the complexities of managing people. If a department chair knows where their team members are coming from, they can adapt their approach as necessary.

In addition to adding valuable tools to her leadership work belt, Wen took comfort in finding solidarity with other educators at the training, who all agreed that change cannot happen in a comfort zone.

“Although we’re from different private schools from all over the country, when we talked about the issues, the challenges, what we want to do in building a department, it’s very similar. Everyone has the same problems—it doesn’t matter if they have 100 years of history or 1,000 students because they’re still facing the same problems and wanting to do the same things. Growth and comfort will not coexist,” she posited. “If you want to make change, there will be some uncomfortable moments, and that’s okay.”

TEACHERS AS STUDENTS

BLENDING OLD AND NEW METHODS:

Tatiana Quintanilla

Tatiana Quintanilla is a Spanish instructor whose dedication to her craft took her to Seville, Spain, for a seven-day workshop on teaching Spanish as a foreign language at the Spanish Institute for Global Education. As the training took place in Spanish, Quintanilla was thrown into an immersive experience she was seeking, connecting with educators from Mexico and various European countries.

“We had professors from the University of Seville, and they were our teachers, so we were on the side of the room that my students are usually on. Yes, we were the students. But we were also able to comment on their different methods and activities, and we were able to adapt them to our own way of teaching.”

The professors’ methods were backed by neuroscience findings indicating that learners best pick up and retain a new language when they’re actively using it. In other words, while memorizing vocabulary is necessary, most students won’t internalize the language until they’ve put it into practice.

“If they’re saying it and writing it, they remember it more,” Quintanilla summarized.

Another highlight of Quintanilla’s professional development was the way instructors seamlessly blended traditional and modern learning techniques. To practice with a new language, the workshop participants learned Finnish. Quintanilla noted how one exercise involved repeating phrases describing images on a printout, a technique that’s been around for ages. The same teacher also employed a random digital popup in her onscreen presentations, using this modern method to provide new vocabulary and keep her students engaged in the material. That synergy between old and new ways of teaching is a concept she’s bringing to her classes at Millbrook.

Quintanilla is using her own version of the Finnish presentation popup to help keep her students stimulated during lessons. She will also continue using repetition, writing, and conversation role-plays to ensure her pupils are practicing what she’s teaching

them, firmly lodging the new information in their brains by connecting it to their everyday lives—or, as she termed it, “the art of doing.”

Along with guiding students to apply their new language skills in their lives, Quintanilla checks the pulse of her classrooms to ensure they’re always in sync, a practice reinforced by the workshop in Seville. She explained the high impact of the subtle shift in language from “Do you have any questions?” to “What questions do you have?” in creating an environment that encourages students to admit to and resolve confusion.

TEACHERS AS STUDENTS

BUILDING A ROADMAP TO SCHOOL CHANGE: Jasper

Turner, Eve Whitehouse & Anna Birnbaum

Change is a challenging but necessary component of all successful educational institutions. Looking to learn more about the nuances of creating change, three of Millbrook School’s administrators—Dean of Faculty Jasper Turner, Dean of Student Life Anna Birnbaum, and Academic Dean Eve Whitehouse—took a trip to Miss Porter’s School in Hartford, Connecticut, to attend a workshop titled “Roadmap to School Change: From Vision to Reality.”

“I thought about conversations I’ve had with administrators around the beauty that is Millbrook and the opportunity to continue to grow and how hard it can feel to create sustainable change within that framework,” Turner explained. “I was curious to see how other schools have navigated change effectively.”

Whitehouse concurred, also pointing out that the workshop was a much-needed chance to focus on academics after years spent adapting programming to COVID-19 guidelines. “We’re still who we are, but we hit pause on making long-term academic plans to do COVID well and support students socio-emotionally,” she said. “We saw this as an opportunity to talk more deeply about academics at Millbrook.”

While the trio of educators is always working toward enacting programmatic changes that enhance Millbrook students’

academic experience, the professional development workshop encouraged them to think more about the big picture. Turner highlighted “the spaghetti of interconnectedness” that defines an educational organization and how schools should clearly define a North Star goal to align internal interests.

He also noted the importance of making potential improvements within a reasonable timeframe—not so quickly that the impact of the change throughout the organization isn’t considered, but not so slowly that the effect is minimal. To illustrate the latter part of this point, Turner recounted a memorable line from the workshop: “The highway is littered with indecisive squirrels.”

With that visceral image in mind, the group began refining their roadmap for Millbrook’s academic programs. A large project management poster from the conference still hangs on the wall of Turner’s office, overflowing with sticky notes representing various steps toward Millbrook’s North Star mission.

Specific initiatives they’re working on include creating a portrait of a Millbrook graduate, which Whitehouse defines as “what we want students to be like as human beings and academics by the time they leave Millbrook.” Refining that portrait requires first analyzing the curriculum map and determining the appropriate pedagogies to employ.

STUDENTS LEADING THE WAY

Boarding school provides many opportunities for students to develop real-world leadership skills. Recent examples of this at Millbrook include a IVth former organizing an annual Model UN conference and student zoo curators participating in the annual Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Conference.

Model UN Saves the World from Zombies

Millbrook’s Model UN club welcomed local middle schoolers from Indian Mountain School (IMS) and Dutchess Day School (DDS) for the third annual Millbrook Model UN conference. More than 60 attendees took a crack at solving the world’s problems, which included a zombie apocalypse.

This year’s event featured three committees, which met in the Hamilton Math and Science Center and the Holbrook Arts Center. The Crisis Committee staved off a hypothetical zombie attack while the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) tackled global education, and the World Health Organization (WHO) handled water sanitation. At the end of the day, students from each group received awards for their world-saving proposals.

Model UN club president Grace Bellin ’27 organized the event with help from Mosie Pennington ’27 and history faculty members Owen Kelley ’17 and Mitch Kastilahn. Bellin did stellar work in running this year’s conference after inheriting the Model UN club from her sister, Christina Bellin ’24, who initiated the tradition of inviting IMS and DDS students to participate.

Students Travel to Calgary for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Conference

As the only high school in the U.S. with an AZA-accredited zoo, Millbrook presents an array of unique opportunities for students to get involved with important conservation work. One such opportunity is to attend the annual AZA Conference and network with zooindustry leaders.

This year’s conference was held in Calgary, and Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo student head curators Jamie Katis ’25 and Milo Stephenson ’25 flew to Alberta, Canada, with Zoo Director Dr. Alan Tousignant, Director of Programs Jessica Bennett, and Director of Animal Care Kyleen Depew to participate.

Our zoo crew attended conservation meetings held by AZA groups, including SAFE (Saving Animals from Extinction), TAG (Taxon Advisory Group), and SSP (Species Survival Plan), which focused on endangered zoo residents like our red panda and American Red Wolves. The conference also allowed the Millbrook representatives to attend workshops on topics such as zoo work culture and social media management. The highlight of the trip was a behindthe-scenes tour of the Calgary Zoo that took them into the veterinary hospital and animal habitats while Jamie, a student in Independent Science Research, also found great value in a research poster presentation session.

WHAT’S NEW:

Courses, Curriculum & Programming

Exploring Spirituality through Comparative Religion

This year, a new offering, Advanced History: Comparative Religion, delves into spirituality by comparing major world religions. It is led by JJ Morrissey, the dean of student engagement and wellbeing.

Morrissey credits his teachers from his own days as a boarding school student for inspiring his career in education. He has spent nearly two decades working in independent schools, teaching history for 10 years and spending the past seven years in administrative roles.

Although he appreciates his ability to make a broader institutional impact as a dean, he remains a teacher at heart. When he had the opportunity to transition from Millbrook’s dean

of students to his current, more flexible role, he jumped at the chance to add a class to his schedule. “Being out of the classroom was hard. The joy in teaching, how much fun it is to design lesson plans and be in a classroom and connect with students in that way—it’s the reason we’re here.”

His return to the classroom brought with it the opportunity to design a course from scratch. Morrissey, who grew up Catholic and studied world religions throughout his time in high school

and college, drew from his experience to share his passion with students while adding an elective course to Millbrook’s academic program. “This is something I’m passionate about, and it’s unique in the History Department as it is not a standard survey study of a period of history. I think our students are hungry for a broader study of religion and spirituality and awareness and consciousness.”

In the first semester, the class studies five major religions: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Students dive deep into the philosophies espoused by these religions, going straight to the sources in their sacred texts. In the second semester, they compare how the religions they studied deal with concepts such as consciousness, theodicy, and phenomenology. Students do plenty of reading, and the class is built around graded oral discussion and group work so that students can explore their ideas with each other, build on their own understandings, defend their positions, and amend

their positions. “Ultimately, I want them to have a better understanding of the world in which they live. We live in a pluralistic society. Your neighbor might be of a religion different than you, and knowing what that religion stands for and the associated beliefs helps you better know that person.”

In addition to better understanding external viewpoints, Morrissey wants students to grow internally. “The biggest goal, for me, is that at the end of this unit, they walk away knowing themselves better and who they want to be in this world. There is space in all of us to be filled with spirituality—not religion, necessarily, but spirituality and spiritual reflection. I hope this helps begin to fill that space, and they can dig in further as they get older.”

According to students, Morrissey is accomplishing his goals as they discover how people with different views of the world—including their classmates—approach questions of consciousness and spirituality.

QUOTABLES

Throughout the year, we emphasized our core value of respect, encouraging—and often requiring—students and faculty to put down their phones and connect through active listening. When we listened, students, faculty, and visitors gave us inspiring words to live by.

George Mendoza ’25 CHAPEL TALK

“By committing to the vulnerability of change, you put yourself in a position to make yourself or others better.”

Kevin McMahon Program Manager,

JCK

Foundation

FRIDAY FORUM

“When it comes to empathy, it’s not the understanding that’s the most important part. It’s the attempt to understand, right? It’s stepping outside of your judgements, your feelings, your beliefs, trying on someone else’s situation. Saying to yourself, ‘If that was me, what would I need the most? I’m going to do whatever I can to give that to that person in my life.’”

Jonathan Downs ’98 2024 CONVOCATION

“There’s no better place to regulate habits than with people who share similar values within a community. And if we all do it— we all help one another—we will all build better, healthier habits for the future.”

Kacey Bellamy Hockey Olympian GUEST SPEAKER

“Get out of your comfort zone. It’s the hardest thing that I’ve had to do in my life, but it’s made all the difference in the world.”

Alison Berg Board of Directors, 3GNY

FRIDAY FORUM

“It is only your values that define you, and that’s what makes you most similar to or most different from someone else. It’s not your age, your gender, your race, your religion, or any other thing. You can always find shared values.”

Athletics MUSTANG NATION

Mustangs left it all on the field, court, track, and rink during the 2024–2025 sports seasons. While postseason glory was not in the cards for every team, there was plenty for the Milly Hype Squad to cheer about as our athletes competed against some of the top schools in New England and beyond.

BOYS VARSITY

BASKETBALL

REACHES NEPSAC SEMIFINALS

Millbrook’s boys varsity basketball team had a season for the ages this winter, going 20–5 during the regular season, cracking the top 50 in the national prep school rankings, and entering the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) Class B playoffs as the No. 1 seed.

The boys dominated their first-round game, overwhelming King School 84–66 with stifling defense and a deadly combination of high-flying dunks and accurate outside shooting.

Unfortunately, the Mustangs’ pursuit of a championship fell just short, as they lost a hard-fought semifinal matchup at home against a formidable opponent in The Rivers School—last year’s NEPSAC Class B champions. The Mustangs struggled on both sides of the court as their leading scorer and Western New England Prep Co-Defensive Player of the Year, Zoumana Traore ’25, spent much of the game on the bench due to foul trouble.

While the loss dashed the Mustangs’ championship hopes, the boys have much to be proud of in the aftermath. They played their hearts out against a solid team with two NCAA Division I commits, representing Millbrook with class until the final buzzer sounded.

Millbrook’s basketball program will now enter a transition period. The team is losing eight seniors, including captains Traore and Chase Garcia ’25. Also, Western New England Prep Co-Coach of the Year Billy Thom is stepping away from the team to focus on his social work and study for a PhD in sports performance psychology.

“Coach Thom has meant everything to the program, and he’s supported us in every way, so I support him in this,” Garcia shared with Poughkeepsie Journal reporter Stephen Haynes. “He’s been coaching for a long time and juggling that with social work and a family. His taking time to focus on his passion makes sense, and he deserves that.”

But even without Thom and a slew of graduating VIth formers, there is much to look forward to in the Wray Gymnasium next winter. Thom’s replacement, current Assistant Coach Garvin McAlister, has extensive coaching experience at the NCAA Division I, II, and III levels, most recently as an assistant coach at Dartmouth College. McAlister partnered closely with Thom this year, running the offense as Thom focused on defense. McAlister has a talented group of rising seniors to turn into champions next year, and Thom plans to help out as an assistant coach.

We look forward to watching our graduating seniors find new success on the court and in the classroom in college, and we’re excited to see how the team develops next winter.

MUSTANG MILESTONES

The 2024–2025 basketball season was the year of Mustang Milestones. Four VIth formers ended their high school playing careers as 1,000-point scorers.

Chase Garcia

Chase Garcia ’25 notched his 1,000th career point on the road at Brunswick School. Garcia’s achievement helped the Mustangs defeat the Bruins 58–40. Millbrook Boys Varsity Head Coach Billy Thom noted that Garcia’s accomplishment is especially impressive, considering an untimely start to his career:

“It is truly an outstanding accomplishment for a high school basketball player to score 1,000 points or more in his career,” Coach Thom said. “Given that Chase did not play games during his freshman year at his local high school due to COVID, this feat is even more amazing! It is a testament to his hard work and dedication.”

Za’Nyah Bernard

Just three games into her final high school season, Za’Nyah Bernard ’25 netted her 1,000th career point. Her incredible accomplishment came during a dominant 29-point performance that led the Mustangs to a 50–41 win over Millbrook rival Pomfret.

“Za’Nyah has been an incredible addition to our team and community since the moment she came to campus,” noted Millbrook Girls Varsity Basketball Head Coach Shayla Zezze. “We are so proud of her and look forward to seeing all she will accomplish throughout the rest of her career.”

Zoumana Traore

Millbrook School prefect and boys varsity basketball sensation Zoumana Traore ’25 scored his 1,000th career point in mid-January. His efforts in front of his home crowd in the Mills Athletic Center brought the team to a 76–58 victory over Cheshire Academy. Coach Thom, who has watched Zoumana progress as a high schooler, praised his star’s high-character play: “Given the continuous growth that Zoumana has shown over his four years at Millbrook, it’s no surprise that we’re celebrating him scoring his 1,000th career point. What feels even more impressive to me is how he has done that—never forcing shots, always caring for his teammates and program, and being the emotionally solid leader he is.”

Amadou Fall

In a 77–52 win over Kent toward the end of the season, Amadou Fall ’25 scored the 1,000th point of his high school career. Fall’s achievement is particularly notable due to his late start in the sport:

“Amadou only started playing organized basketball in high school,” Coach Thom explained. “For him to score 1,000 points in his first four years of organized basketball is a tremendous accomplishment. It also speaks to the incredible upside for him in his future playing career.”

Olympic Hockey Star Kacey Bellamy Helps Mustangs Get Their Minds Right

Millbrook School takes athletics seriously because the skills students hone through competitive endeavors prepare them for lives of meaning and consequence regardless of the career they pursue. To emphasize the synergy between sports and life success,

Millbrook invited women’s ice hockey star Kacey Bellamy to speak with students.

Bellamy is an eight-time world champion with the U.S. Women’s National Hockey team. She played in three Olympic Games, winning a gold medal in 2018 and silver hardware in 2010 and 2014. She also played professionally for 10 years in the Canadian Women’s Hockey League (CWHL) and the National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL), winning championships in both leagues. Currently, she is the director of athletic development at a Massachusetts sports training complex, a motivational speaker, and a poet.

Captains of Millbrook’s girls varsity hockey team, Piper Smith ’25, Jaicee Downs ’26, and Lilly Ainley ’25, introduced Bellamy to the student body, and from the stage in the Chelsea Morrison Theater, she shared what she’s learned throughout her career about overcoming adversity to achieve her goals. Bellamy emphasized the importance of setting a goal, determining the small steps needed to achieve that goal, and consistently following those steps. Discipline and hard work at each stop—from playing youth hockey on boys teams to skating in boarding school at Berkshire and then in college to finally realizing Olympic dreams—drove her to greatness.

On her journey to success, Bellamy learned she also had to develop indomitable resiliency. She advised her audience that to succeed, they would need to have the same mindset:

“Never let the thought of failure stop you from reaching your dreams,” she said. “I always tell kids now, if you have one percent of doubt, you’re probably not going to be successful.”

Bellamy wrapped up her presentation by answering students’ questions and inviting them to the stage to view her Olympic medals.

“After the forum, I ordered a journal and wrote five goals for this upcoming season. Change doesn’t happen overnight, so it is important to document the small stuff in my journal. It was a really cool way to look at how small changes can truly impact your career in both athletics and academics.”

— Piper Smith

“I enjoyed the talk because it changed my perspective and made me question if I am really preparing for every small aspect of how to be my best. After listening to Kacey break everything down, I realized there is a lot more to the mental side than the physical.”

— Jaicee Downs

POMFRET DAY:

Filled with Ups and Downs

Some of the greatest rivalries in sports amicably rage in the Northeastern U.S.: the Yankees vs. the Red Sox, the Jets vs. the Patriots, and Millbrook vs. Pomfret.

The Millbrook Mustangs and the Pomfret Griffins take turns traveling the three hours between their campuses for an annual day of fierce competition in soccer, field hockey, football, cross-country, and volleyball. Rivals to the core, the two schools even track their food waste throughout the week before their day of athletic reckoning to see which community can reduce the most waste.

This year was the Mustangs’ turn to host Millbrook-Pomfret Day. On Saturday, November 9, Pomfret hopped on their mythical mascots and journeyed from their Connecticut campus to the Hudson Valley.

The action kicked off with IIIrds and JV squads in the morning, and then varsity teams began taking their respective fields and courts in the afternoon. The intensity was palpable, as more than bragging rights were on the line. Millbrook students would earn a free day the following Tuesday if they could win more matches than Pomfret.

Before the Griffins arrived, Millbrook was already in the win column, dominating the Route 44 Food Fight for the second year in a row. And while the results of the athletic portion of the event didn’t go their way, Mustang athletes fought valiantly against their rivals, pulling out four big wins.

Congratulations to Pomfret, but they should not be overconfident. The Mustangs will be ready to roll next time in Connecticut!

MUSTANGS COMMITTING TO COLLEGE

Many of our athletes, honing their skills against tough New England prep school competition, catch the eye of NCAA Division I recruiters. This year, we sent four athletes to DI schools, and many other students chose to continue their sports careers at DII and DIII schools.

Jazmin Mejia SOFTBALL University of North Carolina Greensboro

Division I Commits

Francis Bonsu SOCCER University of California Los Angeles

Jack Nestler BASEBALL St. John’s University

Zoumana Traore BASKETBALL University of New Haven

The talented coaches who helped develop our college-bound athletes offered high praise for their athletic abilities and commendable character on and off the field.

Varsity Softball Coach Lindsay Peterson on Jazmin Mejia

“Jazmin is an incredibly hardworking player who is always looking to get in extra reps. Outside Millbrook, she plays competitive travel ball and is an 18U Colombian national team member. Before coming to Millbrook, Jazmin helped lead her high school team to a sectional championship and was an All-Section and All-State selection in New York.”

Boys Varsity Soccer Head Coach Jonathan Howe on Francis Bonsu

“Francis has brought a tremendous skill set to boys varsity soccer, and he’s also demonstrated an incredible work ethic. Since the season’s first practice, Francis has provided a model of tenacity that continuously inspires others. His technical talent and ability to lead by example will serve him well as he takes the next step in his career. We’re excited to watch Francis make Millbrook proud at the college level with the UCLA Bruins!”

Varsity Baseball Head Coach Keith Del Valle on Jack Nestler

“Jack has been a key contributor to Millbrook’s pitching staff, mentoring younger pitchers and leading by example with his competitive spirit on and off the mound. While his collegiate focus will be pitching, he has also been an asset in the infield, showcasing his versatility. His physical development, highlighted by significant strength gains and conditioning, has prepared him for the next level, and he is poised for a bright future at St. John’s University.”

Boys Varsity Basketball Head Coach Billy Thom on Zoumana Traore

“Zoumana is the consummate teammate, community member, leader, and human being. His time at Millbrook has been marked by consistent growth, faith in himself and others, and kindness. Given all of these wonderful traits that Zoumana possesses, it’s no surprise that he’s headed to the Division I program at University of New Haven. We couldn’t be prouder of him!”

• Jazmin Mejia with Coach Peterson

• Francis Bonsu with Coach Howe

• Jack Nestler with Director of Athletics Vinnie Sorriento ’96

• Zoumana Traore with Coach Thom

COLLEGE COMMITMENTS

Front row:

Joseph Evangelista, Basketball, SUNY Cortland

Andrew Fraser, Lacrosse, Lebanon Valley College

Za’Nyah Bernard, Basketball, Amherst College

Piper Smith, Hockey, SUNY Plattsburgh

Arhianna Fernandes, Basketball, Keene State College

Henry Fernandez, Lacrosse, Dickinson College

Francis Bonsu, Soccer, UCLA

Not pictured: Jazmin Mejia, softball, UNC Greensboro

COMMITMENTS

Back row:

Amadou Fall, Basketball, Lincoln University

Muhammed Krubally, Lacrosse, Skidmore College

Chase Garcia, Basketball, New York University

Jack Nestler, Baseball, St. John’s University

Peter Borges, Soccer, Holy Cross University

Connor Criniti, Lacrosse, Stevens Institute of Technology

Milo Stephenson, Squash, St. Lawrence University

Zoumana Traore, Basketball, University of New Haven

Arts

Millbrook is uniquely positioned to develop the next generation of artists. Thanks to our location in the Mid-Hudson Valley and teachers’ industry connections, students have easy access to a thriving art scene in New York City. Inspired by special guests and our talented faculty, our young artists won a slew of awards this year and delivered showstopping performances.

VISITING ARTISTS

Neil LaBute: A SAFE SPACE TO BE BOLD

Neil LaBute is known for writing plays like Reasons to Be Pretty and The Shape of Things He’s also written and directed films and television series, with credits including Death at a Funeral, Billions, and In the Company of Men, to name a few.

When Millbrook Director of Theater Elaine Lifter met LaBute at a local Merritt Bookstore reading, she knew he would be an invaluable source of inspiration for her students. Fortunately, LaBute was as receptive to the idea of visiting Millbrook theater classes as his IMDb page is long.

After a summer of planning, LaBute joined Lifter in her playwriting and acting classes for a week in mid-October. In acting class, students performed monologues adapted from LaBute’s plays. LaBute observed intently, smoothly intertwining praise and notes at the end of each performance.

“Bringing in someone who has cast tons of well-known and gifted actors in various roles to watch our students act is exciting,” Lifter said. “He can really inform them on making bold choices and bringing truth to the imaginary circumstances, and he is definitely modeling that for them.”

In playwriting class, Millbrook’s aspiring writers were treated to a unique exercise. LaBute laid out a selection of postcards, giving students time to look through and pick their favorite one. They were then tasked with writing a monologue from the perspective of one of the characters on the postcard—or from a character not pictured. However, after the students carefully chose their favorite cards, LaBute directed them to trade, evoking an emotional response as he guided them to write outside of their comfort zone. Following that valuable lesson, the young writers wrote a second monologue based on their original choice. Lifter noted that her playwrights were bolstered by the exercise, writing monologues that advanced their style and voice. She was also appreciative of LaBute’s overall impact on all her classes.

“He encouraged creativity in our students and brought out the best in them, and they felt like they could be themselves. That is the first step in them understanding and nurturing their creativity.”

VISITING ARTISTS

Will Reynolds: THEATRE AS AN ACT OF SERVICE

To Will Reynolds, the Broadway actor and composer who shared his time as the music director for Millbrook’s winter musical, storytelling is more than just entertainment—it’s an act of service to his audiences.

Reynolds experienced the profound impact of storytelling early in life.

As a child growing up in Chicago, he had a speech impediment that made even saying his own name a challenge.

“I was raised as Billy, and I changed my name to Will because Bs were too hard,” he explained. “I would get stuck.” Fortunately, Reynolds discovered acting was a way to get unstuck.

“We found that when I played pretend and played characters, my stutter went away,” he said. “I would do these tricks in class where I would pretend to be the version of me that didn’t stutter, and I would just step into that version of me. It was theatre that got me through that speech impediment. It was a major part of my personal development. My parents just kept looking for opportunities, and I wound up auditioning for some professional things and booking those professional things and getting an agent and then doing national commercials and voiceovers.”

Reynolds’ passion for performing never waned. After graduating from high school, he headed to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, enrolling in Carnegie Mellon University’s musical theater program, one of the top BFA programs in the country. There, he trained alongside artists like Josh Gad, Leslie Odom Jr., and Megan Hilty before moving to New York City to pursue a theatre career. He traveled the U.S. as part of the Broadway National Tour cast of Mamma Mia!, landed roles in movies like Emma and The Good Shepherd, and performed in a long list of theater productions, including Passion (directed by John Doyle), The Illusion (directed by Michael Mayer), and Daddy Long Legs.

Reynolds is also a writer and composer. His musical The Violet Hour (starring Jeremy Jordan and Santino Fontana), created with Eric Price and streamed over two million times, won a prestigious Fred Ebb Award, and he’s written songs for six-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald and the Apple TV+ show Central Park Most recently, Reynolds traveled to Budapest to record new music with a 62-piece symphony.

Leaning into the belief that his art is an act of service, Reynolds teaches theatre at Marymount Manhattan and has previously held positions at a list of prestigious schools, including Pace University and Molloy College/CAP 21. In addition, he runs a successful acting coaching business called Audition Breakthrough, working with aspiring performers from around the world. Somehow, he also finds time to host a monthly open mic in the Hudson Valley called Broadway in Beacon.

At his open mic, he met Millbrook Theater Director Elaine Lifter through Millbrook Dance Instructor Zoe Thomas. One thing led to another, and Reynolds fit Millbrook into his busy schedule, taking on the role of music director for Millbrook’s Winter Musical, Matilda This side project was no small task.

“It’s a big show—a lot of moving parts, a lot of big numbers,” he said. “It’s Roald Dahl, so it’s dark and complex, as well as whimsical and silly. Walking that line is the fun challenge of it, for sure.”

Putting on a musical is also challenging for students. They take time out of their jam-packed academic lives to memorize dance moves, lyrics, and lines. They build full sets and learn how to run the audio and lighting. However, as Reynolds noted, engaging in performing arts is valuable for every participant’s personal development, whether they want to pursue acting as a career or not. For most, it’s a big part of growing their confidence.

Reynolds’ positive impact on Millbrook students has transcended the theater classroom. In January, several of our young thespians stepped out of their campus comfort zone and into the bright lights of Broadway in Beacon to perform musical numbers they learned for past Millbrook productions. Reynolds praised them for being courageous enough to share their talent with a room full of strangers. He also pointed out parallels between his popular open mic performances— during which he’s handed unfamiliar music to sight-read—and his expectations for Millbrook students’ production of Matilda.

“Part of the artistic journey is being willing to just push forward to the next draft of the thing and let go of the mistakes. If I keep holding onto them, that’s not helping anybody. It’s better that it happened at all than if it didn’t happen perfectly. It’s an educational experience. Theatre for young people isn’t just about putting on a show. It’s about so many other things.”

Those “other things” are why Millbrook emphasizes its unique arts program. Even if students do not pursue an arts career after high school, they benefit immensely from studying art in various mediums. While Reynolds guided the cast of Millbrook’s Matilda to maximize their talents and put on the most entertaining show possible, he was more concerned with influencing them to do their best for the right reasons.

“[They work] together as a team, learning how to collaborate, learning how to speak up and use their voice and be confident and just dive in and say, ‘Yes’—these are life skills. Really, it’s all about confidence. And [they are gaining] an understanding of why theatre and storytelling matter and how it’s an act of service to the people in the audience.”

That view of performing arts fits neatly into Millbrook’s overarching service-oriented mission and motto, Non Sibi Sed Cunctis—not for oneself but for all. Reynolds embodies Millbrook values, and we’re thrilled he found time to share his talents with our community.

PERFORMING ARTS

Our Theater Department went all out this year to fill the Chelsea Morrison Theater with dramatic mysteries and dark comedy tunes.

Fall Play Casts Keep Audiences Guessing

Each year, Theater Director Elaine Lifter and her actors and crew prepare for months to put on entertaining fall play performances. The performing arts team doubled their work this year by putting on Agatha Christie’s classic whodunnit

The Mousetrap with two casts.

“We’ve never had two casts before, and it’s been more work but totally worth it because we were able to feature more students,” Lifter said before the November 13 premiere. “They’ve been fantastic. They met deadlines and brought a lot of creativity and energy to developing really dynamic characters that Agatha Christie would be proud of.”

Two of those students are Marina Greenberg ’28 and Olivia Biller ’27, who played female lead Mollie Ralston in Cast A and Cast B, respectively. Both leading ladies brought unique perspectives to their character, who has unwittingly gathered a group of murder suspects at her newly opened guest house, Monkswell Manor.

Other notable performances included Blake Frost ’26, Andrew Stambaugh ’26, and Steven Yang ’28, who participated in both casts. Frost played the role of Detective Sergeant Trotter, entering through the window and taking charge of the unfolding mystery. Also serving as the play’s assistant director, Stambaugh grumpily helped Mollie run Monkswell Manor as Giles Ralston. Yang shone as Trotter’s assistant Sam Sprinter—a character the Theater Department created just for Millbrook’s version of The Mousetrap. His panicked exit from the stage and through the audience was a highlight of the performance.

Rousing performances from a colorful cast of other supporting characters also entertained audiences. Kelly Kwok ’25 and Maddie O’Brien ’25 provided regular laughs as the flamboyant Christopher Wren, while Lisette Lacroix ’28 and Fifi Novaes-Ferreira ’25 lit up the stage as the eccentric—and heavily accented— Mr. Paravicini. Marvelous Aderibigbe ’26 and Annie Huang ’28 (Mrs. Casewell) and Andrea Taitt ’27 and Ellie Myers ’26 (Major Metcalf) also gave convincing performances. Faculty actors even joined the action, as Sophie Kennedy and Owen Kelley ’17 played a delightfully uptight Mrs./Mr. Boyle.

Throughout the show, the actors did an incredible job of projecting guilt. They kept audiences in the dark as to the identity of the murderer among them from the opening scene to the shocking final twist, rightfully earning standing ovations from their audiences.

A Revoltingly Good Time

This winter, positive reviews began rolling in on Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical even before the curtain lifted on opening night, as Millbrook faculty and staff took advantage of the dress rehearsal’s early start time to treat their young children to the performance. But then tragedy struck! Several cast members fell prey to a seasonal flu surging through campus. The situation was so dire that there weren’t enough student understudies to fill out the cast. Fortunately, faculty member Owen Kelley ’17, a regular star on the Chelsea Morrison Theater stage, stepped up at the last minute (literally, at 11 a.m. on opening day) to learn the role of the doctor at Matilda’s birth, and the show, as it must, went on.

Overcoming the untimely sickness, the cast and crew sang and danced their way directly into the audience’s hearts. Charlotte Withers-Clarke ’27 delivered a dynamic and poignant performance in the role of book-loving Matilda Wormwood as she learned to stand up to the abusive adults in her life with the help of her kind teacher, Miss Honey, portrayed sweetly by Emily Brien ’28. Angus Watt ’28 and Ophélia Champon ’25 were delightfully revolting as Matilda’s self-absorbed parents, and Fifi Novaes Ferreira ’25 played a diabolical Miss Trunchbull.

During the three-show run, audiences cried, laughed, and hummed along as the cast delivered rousing performances of the hit musical numbers. Books flew through the air during “Telly,” students stood on their desks and belted out “Revolting Children,” and everyone took their bows to the final song, “When I Grow Up.”

The beautiful production resulted from months of tireless work designing and constructing sets, creating costumes, and rehearsing. Director Elaine Lifter and Choreographer Zoe Thomas invited their friend Will Reynolds, a Broadway performer, writer, and acting coach, to be the guest music director for the show. Reynolds also devoted many hours to the production, working with the performers as a group and individually to help them get their timing and pitch on point. He was impressed with the Millbrook theater crew’s ability and passion.

“They’re really, really talented, and so many of them have come up after rehearsal and said they want to coach with me and work on their college auditions,” he said. “There are few of them who really do want to go on and do this, which is super exciting. It’s cool to see that light in their eyes.”

SCHOLASTIC ART AWARDS

The regional 2025 Scholastic Art Awards results were announced in January, and Millbrook artists amassed 31 Gold Keys and 32 Silver Keys, the most our creatives have won since 2018.

Submissions are judged by art world luminaries, who evaluate the work for originality, skill, and personal voice or vision. Gold Key winners moved on to the national stage of the awards with the potential to win a gold or silver medal and scholarships. Millbrook has two national gold medal winners in 2025: Kelly Kwok ’25 and Mesha Thomas ’27.

See our complete list of Scholastic Art Award winners in Arts News on our website.

Painting by Roy Ahn ’25

• 2025 National gold medal winners Kelly Kwok ’25 and Mesha Thomas ’27

Photo by Mesha Thomas ’27

Painting by Kelly Kwok ’25

Painting by Chau Nguyen ’25

Photo by Evan Sun ’25

Photo by Wiley Reuss ’27

Ceramic Cup by Nga Ho ’26

Photo by Zoe Bloxam ’27

WARNER GALLERY EXHIBITS

Professional artists—including our faculty—exhibit their work in multiple annual shows in the Holbrook Art Center’s Warner Gallery, mere steps away from art classrooms and honors art spaces. Students have the luxury of walking into the gallery whenever they need the jolt of inspiration that comes from standing in front of a beautiful piece of art.

Natural Gestures

Curator and Art Instructor Kiernan Pazdar said she drew inspiration from the dance world when compiling the fall art exhibit, Natural Gestures, which celebrates Wendy Klemperer, Molly Haynes, Brett McCormack, Omar Lalani, Elizabeth Castagna, Wayne Toepp, and Stephan Sagmiller—artists who portray their connections to the natural world through various mediums.

Trick Mirror

The winter exhibit, Trick Mirror, featured a visually delectable array of trompe l’oeil works from six local and New York City area artists: Katelyn Ledford, Erik Daniel White, Abbi Kenny, Meena Hasan, Lauryn (Red) Welch, and Ada Goldfeld.

Confluence

They say that those who can’t do teach, but at Millbrook, those who teach art also do it. As working artists, teachers in the Art Department model success for their students, bringing an ever-evolving skill set into the classroom. This year’s faculty show included work by Kiernan Pazdar, Jeff Zelevansky, Kat Miller, Tyler Gundrum, Sara MacWright, and Joe Raciti.

Student Life

When classes and practices end, campus remains abuzz with activity. Dances in the Barn, clubs formed around common interests and cultures, off-campus trips, and all-community forums keep students fully engaged in boarding school life.

FRIDAY FORUMS

A longstanding tradition, Friday Forums connect students with a variety of perspectives presented by intriguing guest speakers. This year, students heard from the author of their summer reading assignment, mental health advocates, and the granddaughter of a brave Holocaust survivor.

Award-Winning Author Safia Elhillo Delves into Belonging

Millbrook is structured around the belief that every student should be known and needed, regardless of where they originated and how they arrived here. Apropos of that, the first Friday Forum of the 2024–2025 school year featured poet and author Safia Elhillo, whose work deals with themes of belonging and self-identity.

Elhillo, winner of the Sillerman First Book Prize for African Poets and a Coretta Scott King Book Award, spent the entire day with the Millbrook student body. She first attended morning assembly before heading off to lead a class with IVth and Vth form Honors English students. Students had the unique opportunity to discuss their summer reading, Elhillo’s novel in verse Home Is not a Country, directly with the author.

Merging lyrics and prose into an imagery-filled origin story, she colorfully described her liminal experience as someone who was born in the U.S. to itinerant Sudanese immigrants and spent much of her childhood growing up in various countries. “I grew up in an invented world, among the people who invented it with their own hands,” she explained, “so I grew up believing anything could be made real.”

JCK Foundation Addresses Mental Health and

Wellness

In October, Millbrook School welcomed John Tessitore and Kevin McMahon from the JCK Foundation—an organization dedicated to educating young people about mental health—to share their mission. The speakers were introduced by alumnus Chris Torres ’24, who explained how their work had strongly impacted his life when he was a high schooler.

Tessitore and McMahon began by opening up about their own struggles with depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) before working with their audience to dig into the definitions and implications of empathy and vulnerability. They pointed out how important it is for someone battling with mental health to share their feelings and for those around them to be empathetic allies. The two speakers illustrated their points with deeply personal anecdotes.

“Getting help is the most courageous thing any high school student can do,” said Tessitore. To ensure students have easy access to the assistance they need, Millbrook fosters a strong support network of dorm parents, peer supporters, and professional counselors.

Remembering the Holocaust with Alison Berg

Alison Berg, a board member at 3GNY—a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the stories and lessons of the Holocaust— joined us in January to share memories passed down by her grandmother, a Holocaust survivor with an incredible story.

After explaining 3GNY’s mission, Berg relayed the poignant story of her JewishHungarian grandmother, Anna Greenwood. Anna and her younger sister spent time in Nazi concentration camps Auschwitz and Sachsenhausen near the end of World War II. Her story is filled with horrific experiences but also heroism. From saving her sister from the gas chamber to sabotaging Nazi bombers, Anna demonstrated awe-inspiring courage and resilience to survive the Holocaust and eventually start a new life in the U.S.

Berg noted that her grandmother shared her stories with urgency, warning that the horrors she experienced could happen to anyone if hatred and intolerance toward any group are allowed to flourish:

“The most important lesson that she passed down to me is that it is only your values that define you, and that’s what makes you most similar to or most different from someone else,” Berg said. “It’s not your age, your gender, your race, your religion, or any other thing. You can always find shared values. She taught me to always look for those shared values.”

• Alison Berg, right, with faculty member Annabella Vizcardo Goshen

First Homecoming Celebration

This fall, the Millbrook community held the first Homecoming in our 94-year history.

Students enjoyed a lively Spirit Week leading up to the Homecoming festivities, and the week ended with a pep rally for the ages. With strobe lights flashing, several dedicated faculty members—including Head of School Jonathan Downs ’98—pulled into the Wray Gymnasium on motorcycles, engines revving for effect. Downs knocked out some pushups at center court before doing a set of pullups on the rim of the basketball hoop. Needless to say, students were thoroughly hyped by their leader’s flashy entrance and ferocious feats of strength.

On Saturday, the community participated in a packed afternoon of athletic competitions for Millbrook-Pomfret Day—including the Mustangs’ 40–20 drubbing of the Griffins in football. As Millbrook began the beatdown of its rivals on the gridiron, students finished casting votes for their Homecoming Court.

Ranly Cano ’25 was crowned Homecoming King. Fellow sixth formers Piper Smith and Lilly Ainley were proclaimed co-Homecoming Queens when the vote ended in a tie. With all the pieces in place, the freshly elected royals celebrated their coronation at the Homecoming Dance with their classmates in the gym.

Winter Weekend

A strange hush fell over campus one frigid Thursday afternoon in January.

Although the academic day had ended, not a student was in sight. But the silence—eerie in a space normally scored by sounds of boarding school hustle and bustle—was merely the calm before the spirited storm of Winter Weekend dorm competitions.

Sure enough, the silence was soon broken by Mustangs chanting from every corner of campus. These were the battle cries of our eight dorm teams: Abbott Hall, Burton Hall, Case Hall, Clark Hall & Guest House, Farm House, Harris Hall, Koenigsberger Hall, and Prum Hall.

As tradition dictates, each group of dormmates marched from their residence, passed through the Case Hall gauntlet on Flagler Quad, and finally arrived at the Mills Athletic Center for the opening pep rally. The constant din of chanting students inside the gym drove more than one adult to don earplugs as protection against the soaring decibel levels as the four-day competition began.

Each team demonstrated impressive creativity, athletic prowess, and mental acuity throughout a hard-fought slate of events ranging from choreographed dancing to ping pong and College Bowl trivia. However, the residents of Koenigsberger Hall delivered the most consistent performance to stand alone as 2025 Winter Weekend champions.

Celebrating International Heritage

Home to students from all over the world, Millbrook School regularly celebrates international heritage.

This year’s celebrations included Hispanic Heritage Month, National French Week, Lunar New Year, and the annual International Student Dinner.

Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15 each year. To mark the occasion, Millbrook treated students to Hispanic flavors in Casertano Hall, where Spanish Instructor Tatiana Quintanilla set up a tasting station, offering tasty cultural snacks. Many students stopped on their way in and out of lunch, which featured Hispanic classics like birria tacos.

Another way Millbrook highlighted Hispanic culture was by constructing an ofrenda—a colorful altar built for ancestors during the Mexican Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead)—in the Holbrook Arts Center lobby. AP Spanish students also carried a giant cardboard skeleton onstage at Friday Assembly to illustrate a brief presentation on the tradition.

National French Week

National French Week, organized by the American Association of Teachers of French (AATF), took place from November 6 to 12 this year. French Instructor Florent Lacroix planned various activities to help the Millbrook community celebrate.

Throughout the week, students and faculty participated in a pétanque tournament. This yard game invites teams to take turns tossing heavy metal balls (boules) at a smaller wooden ball (the cochonnet), attempting to land the most boules closest to the cochonnet. Several teams battled each other and the cold conditions for glory and a snack bar gift card.

Lacroix also organized a course des garçons de café. The traditional French race features participants dressed as waiters carrying trays with a croissant, a cup of coffee, and a glass of water. Swapping waiter garb for Sunday afternoon sweatpants, students power-walked around campus, trying not to spill the contents of their trays before reaching the finish line on Pulling Quad.

Lunar New Year

The savory smell of hot pot in Casertano Hall, a blast of colorful fireworks in the sky over the farm, and strains of Mandarin pop music filling the Chelsea Morrison Theater during Monday Assembly—these are just a few highlights of the sensory experience that is Lunar New Year at Millbrook School.

Festivities started in Assembly with a beautiful performance of JJ Lin’s “Jian Nan” by Selina Hung ’27 (piano) and Elena Shan ’26 (vocals). Students also enjoyed a spectacular fireworks show in the snow next to the farm on Lunar New Year’s Eve and feasts of Chinese cuisine—including a delicious hot pot dinner graciously sponsored by the Lin family.

International Student Dinner

Living away from home is a challenge for boarding school students—especially for those from overseas. As a home away from home for a large group of international students, Millbrook School minimizes homesickness and maximizes belonging through activities such as the annual International Student Dinner.

After gathering at Pulling House to chat with Head of School Jonathan Downs ’98 and each other, attendees enjoyed a catered dinner in the Class of 2018 Meeting Room. This year’s menu featured delicious Thai food, including shrimp spring rolls and fried wontons with sweet chili sauce. Tropical flowers and bamboo placemats added exotic flair to the evening of cultural sharing between students and faculty from all over the world.

MLK Day Symposium

Each year, Millbrook School pauses to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The day is spent around campus reflecting on the great civil rights leader’s legacy through a full slate of symposium programming.

The 2025 symposium began in the Chelsea Morrison Theater with a viewing of King in the Wilderness, a documentary about the final years of Dr. King’s life produced by Millbrook alums the Kunhardt brothers— Peter ’01, Teddy ’04, and George ’05. After the film, students separated into small breakout workshops with their faculty advisors. In the first workshop, students created “Calling in Cards.” Inspired by the work of artist Adrian Piper and activist Loretta J. Ross, the cards featured personalized messages designed to initiate communication around being othered, pulling people into a productive conversation rather than simply calling them out for their mistakes.

The second workshop centered on Dr. King’s speech to a group of students at Philadelphia’s Barratt Junior High School, titled “What Is Your Life’s Blueprint?” The workshop led participants to think about their goals and values and then create blueprints for their lives based on their reflections. The blueprint activity and speech mesh perfectly with Millbrook’s mission of ensuring every student is known, needed, and prepared for a life of meaning and consequence. As Dr. King said at Barratt Junior High School:

“Number one in your life’s blueprint should be a deep belief in your own dignity, your worth, and your own somebodiness. Don’t allow anybody to make you feel that you’re nobody. Always feel that you count, always feel that you have worth, and always feel that your life has ultimate significance.”

The symposium ended with a series of performances by Millbrook’s Black Student Union (BSU) in the theater. Through poetry readings, dance and step routines, and a short skit, the BSU put a bow on the symposium, artistically reinforcing the principles discussed throughout the day.

www.millbrook.org/keepintouch

Military

www.millbrook.org/alumni

Big Questions Chasing Answers to

ROY AHN ’25

WINS UNITED NATIONS

YOUTH VIDEO AWARD

Millbrook School attracts talented high schoolers from all over the world. Case in point: international student Roy Ahn ’25. A budding artist, Roy made an animated video titled Just Talk over the summer before his sixth form year; it was selected by the United Nations’ PLURAL+ Youth Video Festival.

Sponsored by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), PLURAL+ collects thousands of multimedia submissions. A jury of international entrepreneurs and creatives selects the best few in age- and topic-based categories. Project themes cover global diversity and inclusion in relation to migration.

Roy’s video, an animated collage of scenes depicting crowded streets and subway cars narrated by background noise and subtitles, climaxes in a classroom with a new student from another culture being introduced to the class. The narrator takes the initiative in welcoming the student to class, and the video closes with a profoundly simple tagline: “Just talk.”

“Just Talk is a compelling stop-motion animation that explores the themes of xenophobia and social inclusion,” stated the PLURAL+ website. “The narrative follows a protagonist’s journey from experiencing fear and confusion fueled by media stereotypes, to discovering the power of direct personal connections. Through a series of impactful scenes, the video highlights the importance of open dialogue and understanding.”

Roy wasn’t looking for a contest to enter; rather, the opportunity fell into his lap while he was at home in South Korea for the summer and perusing emails. For having his project selected, Roy received an all-expenses-paid trip to the PLURAL+ Ceremony in Portugal during Thanksgiving break. Included in the festivities was a dinner with the president of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.

The Millbrook community is proud that one of its own was recognized by the international community for his creative and socially impactful message.

Future Forward:

MILLBROOK’S PUBLISHED STUDENT RESEARCHERS

Some of the most talented young scientists in the world come to Millbrook to pursue their research through our array of in-depth science courses and 800-acre campus filled with natural resources. While these courses are designed to fully prepare students for research projects in college, the rare high schooler’s work is ready for publication before they even graduate. Howard Tu ’25 and Evan Sun ’25 are two such students heading off to college in the fall with scientific journal publishing credits already next to their names.

HOWARD TU ’25 REDUCING AIR POLLUTION THROUGH POLICYMAKING

Tu was drawn to Millbrook by the Trevor Zoo, initially intending to study animal behavior. While he is a curator at the zoo, his focus has shifted to human health, as he wants to make the world a cleaner, healthier place to live. Thinking deeply about how he can best do that led him to publish a scientific research article titled

“The Impact of Industrial Emissions on Outdoor Air Pollution in Different U.S. Cities from 1980 to 2024.”

Working with Stanford professor Mark Z. Jacobson, whom he met through a family friend, Tu began brainstorming topics for an independent research project. Considering his interest in environmental science, he decided to look at historical air pollution trends in several U.S. industrial cities.

“My goal was to analyze the effectiveness of different cities’ policies based on their air pollution levels,” Tu said. His research focused on how differences in geography and changes in population and industry affect air quality. His hope is to deepen knowledge of what causes air pollution to help researchers get closer to fixing the problem.

“I focused on policymaking, which can benefit more people,” Tu explained. “If you change policy, you can impact an entire state or more.”

Tu devoted approximately nine months to his paper, putting in the work on top of his already busy schedule as a student at Millbrook. His efforts were rewarded when Clausius Scientific Press published his paper in its Environment and Climate Protection journal in late 2024.

Taking classes that explore nature in the Hudson Valley has helped Tu develop his interest in environmental science. He referenced a field trip to Dover Stone Church, a unique cave near campus, and working with birds on School Road as some of his favorite activities during his three years at Millbrook.

The 2025 graduate plans to continue his research in the fall at Rice University, focusing on influencing policy. “I think without any action environmental science will just be some words on paper,” he said. “So, we need to take steps toward solutions.”

EVAN SUN ’25 TREATING FIBROSIS WITH Micro RNA

A member of the boys varsity basketball and soccer teams, Sun has a keen interest in kinesiology. His interest was further fueled by a 2024 summer internship at a physical therapy clinic, during which he mostly worked with patients suffering from ACL injuries. That experience inspired him to research and write a meta-analysis titled “Therapeutic Potential of microRNA-29 in Combating Collagen Fibrosis-Induced Skeletal Muscle Atrophy,” which was published in the American Journal of Student Research in February 2025.

“A common trend I observed at the clinic was patients’ muscles shrinking drastically from the injury, partly from not using [them] and partly from external stimuli. I was fascinated by what causes this and whether it can be reversed,” Sun explained. He was particularly curious about how to help people with a genetic disorder called Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).

After poring over dozens of scientific papers and clinical trials, he identified microRNA therapy as a potential solution. He then compiled his findings in a research paper. Sun consulted with a medical field mentor and Millbrook Math Instructor Dr. Timothy Kernan regarding the minutiae of writing and publishing a scientific paper.

Like Tu, Sun piled his research on top of his classwork at Millbrook, which includes a lab-based project for his Independent Science Research (ISR) class. He said he also plans to publish his findings from that project.

Sun isn’t sure where his interests will take him, but he’s thinking about pursuing some combination of science and business. “I probably want to focus more on the business side of things, running a clinic or doing some research or bioengineering for kinesiology,” he speculated. “That could be pretty interesting.”

Scholars’ Scoop:

WHERE EXPERTISE MEETS INSPIRATION

Our faculty are true experts in their fields, and when students study with active researchers and passionate mathematicians, education comes alive. Leading by example and bringing content to life in engaging ways, they teach our students skills that will give them an advantage both in college and in life.

TIM KERNAN

AP STATISTICS: Searching for Significance

From analyzing simple spreadsheets to working with AI operating on petabytes of data, our graduates face a world that runs on number crunching. To ensure they’re ready to succeed in that world, our math curriculum includes data-driven courses like Dr. Timothy Kernan’s AP Statistics.

Dr. Kernan brings a PhD from Columbia and knowledge from 15 years spent using statistics as a bench scientist to his interactions with students. “Statistics is the way that we prove our results. It’s an essential part of the centering process, reporting them, interpreting them, etc.,” he explained. “So, I’m drawing on real life experiences and education to teach this class.”

With that experience in mind, he constructed a course that mimics the obstacles his students will face after they graduate from high school. According to Dr. Kernan, AP Statistics is a uniquely challenging component of Millbrook’s academic programming—not because of its difficult subject matter but because of its structure. Other AP classes start with a foundation of concepts that has been slowly constructed

through years of lower-level classes, but AP Statistics covers four years’ worth of information in a single year. And that’s a good thing.

The rapid pace of the class pushes students to take charge of their studies. He explains the reasoning behind his high expectations: “It’s not the cognitive lift as much as it is scope and scale that makes it so challenging. And in that sense, it’s good preparation for college, because you’ll go even faster with less support with even more depth in even less time. That, for me, is one of the ways I try to make that class relevant to them.”

Another way Dr. Kernan makes the class relevant is by pairing each member of AP Statistics with a student from Dr. Kerry Dore’s Advanced Independent Science Research (ISR) class. Students from the two classes work together to complete a yearlong research project, with the AP Statistics students serving as data consultants for the ISR scientists.

“Their job is to use their knowledge of good study design from a statistical point of view and data collection methods to assess upfront whether the experiment asks a question and has methods that will result in statistically significant data, or data that’s at least testable in a world of statistics. What they will do at the back end is look at the data that is collected, summarize it, visualize it, analyze it, help interpret it, and help do statistical tests, where you actually look for what is the mathematical proof of significance.”

In addition to learning how to evaluate statistical significance, students develop teamwork skills through ISR collaboration. This highly transferable soft skill will help them whether they become a data scientist or choose a path of lesser numerical resistance.

Helen Li ’25 is a student in both ISR and AP Statistics. Even though she has the skills to handle the data for her own ISR project, she sees the value in collaborating with another statistics student. “You have to have someone else to help because there might be bias,” she explained. “Also, it’s just good to have someone else…They might have a different way of looking at things.”

But perhaps the most important tool students learn to wield in AP Statistics is discernment regarding the agenda-driven data they’re bombarded with daily. Dr. Kernan sees this lesson as a main purpose of his class.

“One of my big goals for the class is that students walk out knowing what questions they should be asking themselves about where data comes from. You scroll through your social media page, and you see some random statistic, which is always some percent that lacks context and has got this bold claim attached to it, usually with a product that is suggested to ameliorate or address whatever that statistic is about.”

His goal is for students to question the criteria being presented to them in claims every day. He wants them to become savvy consumers of news, questioning politicians and the stats they casually drop, realizing when something is justified and when something is significant or not.

Developing critical thinking skills is vital to our mission of preparing students to make choices that result in lives of meaning and consequence. Our goal is to train productive members of society who, rather than taking information presented to them at face value, dig deeper to get to the truth that’s often obscured by misleading data. It’s that skill that attracts students to AP Statistics.

“That’s really the big picture of the class. It is the life skill and that’s what brings kids in the class,” Dr. Kernan explained. “Over and over again, what I hear from them is, ‘I care about stats because I know it’s important.’ They understand at the end of the day that this stuff is fundamentally meaningful and impactful, and they will use it in their work and lives.”

KERRY DORE

ADVANCED ISR: Training the Next Generation of Scientists

Millbrook School is home to a diverse population of students and faculty, a zoo filled with exotic and endangered animals, and an 800-acre spread of hills, forests, and wetlands. The course in our academic schedule that best takes advantage of these resources is Dr. Kerry Dore’s Advanced Independent Research (ISR) class, in which students design and conduct experiments that culminate in a formal scientific paper presentation.

As a working research scientist focused on biology, genetics, and primatology, Dr. Dore is uniquely qualified to teach Advanced ISR. After spending years in Saint Kitts and Nevis studying primates, she splits her time at Millbrook between teaching and publishing the data she has collected, even traveling to England in December to present on her findings. Dr. Dore’s students benefit from her deep knowledge of scientific research, and they’re inspired by watching their instructor practice what she preaches.

While Dr. Dore works on a global scale, her students’ research is mainly focused on their surroundings in upstate New York. However, their findings have the potential to impact the entire world.

For example, our budding scientists this year analyzed fecal matter from various animals in the zoo to determine levels of microplastics, stress, and phosphorous, the latter of which will be tested as fertilizer on the farm. Students also evaluated the effects of human disturbance and the presence of beavers on our water systems on south campus— riding their bikes to the marsh to collect samples, even breaking through the ice to continue collections in the dead of winter.

Over a full academic year, Advanced ISR takes students through every step of a research project. They must decide what they want to study, write research proposals, design their studies, and determine their sampling strategies. Then, they spend months collecting data before working with our AP Statistics class to analyze and decide the best

way to visualize the information they’ve gathered. Finally, students compile their study results to present in poster and scientific paper form at Millbrook’s annual Science Symposium.

The intense, college-level work students do in Advanced ISR equips them for success after Millbrook, whether they go on to study science in higher education or choose another vocation. Dr. Dore identified a bevy of skills her class imparts. For instance, students who want to pursue scientific studies in college enter with a major

advantage, having already accumulated experience building and executing experiments. They also learn to differentiate between a research question—the knowledge gap that they’re attempting to fill—and a hypothesis, which is the outcome they expect. They find and read scholarly resources, efficiently sourcing the information most relevant to their studies.

In addition to the technical abilities picked up from writing research proposals and formally presenting their findings, Advanced ISR students develop high-level time management and independent thinking skills that lead to success on any career path. Dr. Dore ensures her students head in the right direction with their research, but deciding what to study and completing the work is entirely their responsibility.

“They’ve got to self-motivate. It’s not like I give them a homework assignment every day. They have to figure out what needs to be done and do it.”

A perfect example of the initiative required to excel in this class comes from Evan Sun ’25. Sun researched aspartame consumption to determine whether it helps with weight loss or negatively impacts

health. His initial plan was to study the effects of aspartame on mice, but he was unable to manipulate their diets without approval from the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). Rather than give up, Sun looked up what animals don’t require IACUC approval for diet manipulation, settling on a variation of roundworm.

“I have to find my way out of problems, either by asking other faculty members or looking online and reading a lot of papers. I have to change my methods as I go and do a lot of testing, and the resiliency and problem-solving skills I’m practicing will definitely benefit me, regardless of whether I go into biomedical research or if I pivot to other fields of study,” Sun shared.

Dr. Dore’s example and experience shared through Advanced ISR gives students like Sun, who are considering taking a deeper dive into the sciences at college, an immense head start. In turn, the students help Dr. Dore stay engaged in her work as a teacher.

“I really am proud to teach Advanced ISR,” she said. “I love teaching it because it’s different every single year, and the kids do so many different things.”

JASPER TURNER

AP CALCULUS BC: Solving Problems Together

On paper, calculus may not seem like the most exciting subject that high school students learn. But once inside the operations trenches with Jasper Turner and his students, even the most numbers-averse among us can’t help but take an interest in what’s going on in Millbrook’s AP Calculus BC class.

Turner, who is also Millbrook’s dean of faculty, attended Deerfield Academy before earning his BA from Pomona College and his MA from Columbia University. Although math wasn’t the focus of his higher education journey, he nourished a soft spot for the discipline.

“I was a philosophy, politics, and economics major when I was in college,” he explained. “But I’ve always loved math, and I took quite a lot of math, through multivariable and some linear algebra, and then decided to go some different directions.”

After college, he taught math at multiple private schools, including teaching AB calculus and chairing the Math Department at Berkshire School. When he joined the Millbrook community in 2020, Math Department Chair Martha Clizbe suggested he take on BC calculus.

According to one of Turner’s current students, Helen Li ’25, the difficulty of BC calculus is part of what makes the class so engaging under Turner’s guidance. “Because it’s hard, everyone is sticking together to solve a problem—even the teacher—we all stick together,” she said.

Turner agrees, noting that collaboration is key: “If you walk by my classroom, there are groups of four and there’s a lot of conversation— ‘What are you thinking when you do that?’” He emphasized that students often approach problems in different ways, leading to rich discussions about reasoning and justification. “The reasoning skill is really what we’re building here.”

Instilling the ability to pool collective resources and apply them to logically work through difficult problems ensures students can succeed in their higher education journeys and the careers that follow. And at the core of collaboration is communication—another

invaluable life skill BC calculus imparts that transcends the content of the class.

“What I think is far more important are the life skills, the ability to communicate around really complex topics and break them down into simpler things,” Turner said. “They all have the tools they need. The goal is to be able to take a complex problem, distill it to what its essence is, figure out how to solve that problem, and then put it within the context of their own mathematical knowledge and how the AP wants them to approach these problems.”

That approach enables the class to learn much more than is required simply to pass the AP exam, and they do it in a way that is anything but boring. Millbrook’s curriculum provides a foundation in calculus that, when combined with the small class size afforded by the boarding school framework, allows Turner to move at a slower pace and drill down into what makes calculus interesting.

When he talks about the nitty gritty operations of calculus, his passion is contagious—so much so that students are inspired to spend their precious free time working on it. “I walk into my office on a Sunday afternoon to grab a couple things, and there are at least two or three kids somehow randomly across the hall taking over whiteboards. It’s just math everywhere…that’s awesome, that’s so cool that’s how they’re spending part of their Sunday.”

A word that keeps popping up during conversations with students about BC calculus is “fun,” a descriptor high schoolers typically reserve for less academic activities. But with the right teacher, the challenge of learning complex information can be as exciting as a winter Wednesday afternoon at the Mills Athletic Center.

THE CHAPEL COUNCIL EFFECT: Stronger Students, Stronger Community A

Reflection by Kingsley Brown ’25

I’ve always had a passion for service and bringing people together, but my time at Millbrook has deepened that commitment in ways I never expected.

Being part of a small, close-knit community comes with challenges, but it also offers the rare chance to build lasting connections with people from all walks of life. I’ve been fortunate to be a member of the Chapel Council—a group that has helped bring our community together while growing through outreach and service. I hope to make a difference in

the world and in others’ lives, and I know this is only the beginning of that journey—one shaped and inspired by my time on Chapel Council, which has enriched not only my experience but also the lives of students across campus. A strong spiritual and reflective group is essential to who we are, and Millbrook is a stronger, more connected place because of Chapel Council and the unwavering guidance of its leader, Reverend Cam Hardy.

The Chapel Council organizes outreach events, religious services, and Chapel Talks, ensuring Millbrook is welcoming to all faiths and fostering unity and inclusivity. It’s made up of students of different religions, ethnicities, genders, and beliefs. We meet with Reverend Hardy four times a week to plan events, including traditional Chapel

Talks. Each year twelve students share personal experiences and reflect on Millbrook’s impact. The council carefully reviews each talk to ensure it resonates with and enriches the community.

We also support another longtime Millbrook tradition: organizing two Midnight Runs each year, collecting clothing and supplies and working with Aramark and a local restaurant to provide warm meals. A group of 25 students travels to New York City, making four stops around Manhattan. In addition to distributing essentials, we engage in meaningful conversations with the homeless and extend Millbrook’s motto, Non Sibi Sed Cunctis, beyond campus. The Council also works with DEIB students and kitchen staff to ensure our meals reflect holidays and celebrations important to our diverse student body—like Passover, Ramadan, Hispanic Heritage Month, and Lunar New Year.

The Chapel Council shapes even more of Millbrook’s most meaningful traditions. Every new student begins their journey with the First Night Service and closes it upon graduation with the Last Night Service, singing the same hymn years later surrounded by classmates who’ve become family. Chapel Council also organizes events like the Thanksgiving and Candlelight Services, which foster reflection and gratitude. It also plays a key role in Convocation, where students from around the world carry their national flags into the chapel before the head of school’s opening address.

Each year, Reverend Hardy selects a dedicated group of students to serve on Chapel Council. Her warmth and commitment to creating a welcoming environment shine through everything we do. She ensures every Millbrook student feels needed and known. Her enthusiasm inspires us to continue developing outreach, services, and initiatives that uplift our community. Every year, many more students apply than there are spaces. The Chapel Council’s vibrant, supportive atmosphere is something students want to be a part of.

My grandfather was a minister, so I’ve always been fascinated by different faiths. Chapel Council deepened this interest, giving me insight into various traditions and helping me understand the importance of coming together regularly in community. It also helped me connect outside the Millbrook bubble—building empathy for people and experiences far beyond my own.

This experience has changed how I see the world and myself, and I’ve grown tremendously as a result. Balancing Chapel Council duties with academics has helped me prioritize, stay organized, and build communication skills. I’ve also become a better listener, realizing the rich lessons gained by hearing others’ stories. Spiritually, I have

felt grounded during stressful times and safe while allowing myself to be vulnerable. I’ve found clarity and peace through reflection, which has improved my focus and ability to lead—not just participate—in class discussions.

As I prepare to graduate, I carry with me a deep truth: learning transcends the classroom. In the quiet, reflective moments of Chapel Talks, the joy of Midnight Runs, and the shared meals during formal dinners, I’ve become more compassionate, curious, and resilient. As a result, I have become a better student of academic subjects and of life.

Through engaging in outreach projects, my perspective on life has been profoundly transformed. I’m committed to continuing this work beyond Millbrook, carrying forward the lessons and relationships I’ve built. I hope the Chapel Council continues to reflect Reverend Hardy’s compassion and warmth, spreading Millbrook’s mission far beyond School Road.

Out of the Box

THINKERS

Millbrook alums are bold and innovative in their pursuit of big ideas and answers to questions that will shape the future of our world.

GIOIA CHILTON ’85

The Art of Creating Yourself

At the intersection of creativity, science, and service, Gioia Chilton ’85 is pursuing knowledge while helping to heal others.

Looking back, Gioia sees Millbrook as the place where her life’s passions first took root and were given space to grow. It was here that she learned the value of curiosity and that art, service, leadership, and scholarship could all coexist and inform each other. That early freedom to think expansively shaped her journey toward a PhD and a career in arts-based research. In celebrating alumni who embody “out-of-the-box” thinking, Gioia’s story reminds us how important it is to encourage young minds to explore widely and follow their own unique path. As an artist, researcher, therapist, and educator, her work challenges traditional boundaries and offers a powerful example of what it means to think, and live, outside the box.

Long before she became an emerging expert in the field of arts-based research, she was a teenager wandering Millbrook’s campus, sketchbook in hand, following the tug of her own questions and discovering who she wanted to become. Millbrook taught her that real learning isn’t confined to classrooms or textbooks—it lives in wonder, in practice, in the messy edges where art, science, and service intersect. That early permission to think differently— to blend disciplines and take her own path—became the foundation for a life of inquiry. Gioia’s story is a reminder of how education, at its best, nurtures not just knowledge but the courage to follow your heart.

Looking back, Gioia can trace the roots of her journey to Millbrook’s classrooms and studios. Following in her father’s footsteps – Karl Connell, Jr. ’42 – Gioia landed at Millbrook in 1981, thousands of miles from her home in Florida. Millbrook offered a college-preparatory curriculum that was grounded by an integrated and excellent arts program and core values—including service and stewardship—that were imbued into students’ daily lives. Gioia took the opportunity presented to her and particularly loved her arts and history courses. “I have wonderful memories of my art teacher, Mr. Beecher.”

Encouraged by Mr. Beecher and other teachers who valued both artistic exploration and intellectual rigor, she developed an early sense that art and creative thinking informed other subjects,

even the subjects, like math and language, in which she struggled. Matriculating to Bennington College in Vermont in 1985, Gioia focused on sculpture and psychology in her undergraduate studies and then met with an educational consultant to talk about where her interests might lead her. “I liked being an artist, but I didn’t want to show my work in galleries and sell it. I wanted to work with people, help people.” The consultant introduced her to the profession of art therapy, and that eventually led to her master’s degree in art therapy from George Washington University in 1994 and commitment to the emerging field.

In 2014, Gioia earned her PhD in Creative Arts Therapies from Drexel University, and since then, she has made significant contributions across clinical, educational, and community-based settings. At the

Intrepid Spirit Center in Ft. Belvoir Community Hospital, she currently develops and delivers innovative art therapy interventions for active-duty service members dealing with traumatic brain injury and PTSD, working as part of an interdisciplinary team under the Creative Forces initiative. “My father was a veteran…it feels really good to be serving people who serve our country. So, this mission, serving the servers, really has a lot of meaning for me personally.”

She is also an adjunct professor at Drexel University, an online lecturer at Syracuse University, and a published author of many research papers, books and book chapters, and peer-reviewed articles. Her previous roles include providing counseling and art therapy to elementary students and adolescents with emotional, learning, and behavioral problems, supporting adults in recovery from substance abuse through expressive therapy, and facilitating creative workshops for cancer survivors and caregivers.

Gioia’s career embodies the Millbrook values of curiosity, service, stewardship, and integrity—through work that bridges academic rigor with human emotion and imagination. She encourages her students to trust the insights that can emerge through creative work and expressing themselves in the safe places she helps create. She is living out some of the lessons she first learned at Millbrook: thinking outside the box isn’t about rejecting structure—it’s about expanding it, making room for more voices, more questions, and more possibilities.

In her life and work, Gioia embodies a truth that Millbrook knows well: the world’s greatest changes often begin with a spark of creativity and the courage to see it through.

DAVID LEVY ’99 and MORGAN CONRAD ’99

INNOVATING ON THE EDGE:

How Two Millbrook Alums Turned Friendship into a Force for Big Ideas

From Case Hall to startup ventures, David Levy ’99 and Morgan Conrad ’99 have always had a spark for mischief and creative collaborations. Their story isn’t just about the bonds formed at Millbrook—it’s about how out-of-the-box thinking can evolve into a bold new model for fundraising and entertainment.

“We’ve been friends since 1996,” Morgan recalls, and that camaraderie has formed the foundation of every project they’ve launched since. Whether pranking emails to announce an unplanned free day or launching a tech startup rooted in social psychology, these two alums are redefining what it means to create with purpose. Back in their Millbrook days, David and Morgan were yin and yang. David was “an actor, and not very athletic,” while Morgan “did the sports.” But what bound them together were shared moments in the dorm that on some occasions evolved into innovation disguised as pranksterism. David fondly recounts one of his legendary “email pranks,” where he impersonated Headmaster Drew Casertano and, along with close friend Marko Guzijan ’99, declared a surprise free day via email blast—then a rather young technology. “It was the most amazing night of luck in my life at Millbrook,” said David, “and I honestly believe that Mr. Casertano let the whole thing go just to help us.”

Post-Millbrook, Morgan attended Denison University and began his professional career as a financial analyst at John A. Levin & Co. and then CIBC World Markets. After a three-year run at Atlantic Street Capital, he founded Morgan Investment Company, which he continues to run today. David graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Ithaca college and jumped immediately into writing and filmmaking, producing a dozen indie movies including the 2012 psychological thriller Would You Rather, which Morgan co-produced. While Would You Rather was picked up by IFC and still generates buzz around Halloween as a classic thriller, the film industry’s unstable revenue model prompted a pivot for David. “I was sick of not making money,” he explains.

That frustration, combined with his fascination for what people are willing to do for money—“the concept behind Would You Rather”—sparked the genesis of their latest venture: Cajole. When David pitched the idea to Morgan, based on meme-fueled celebrity fundraisers during the SAG strike, it wasn’t long before the duo was back in business together.

Cajole is both platform and spectacle—a fusion of GoFundMe, Kickstarter, and reality TV stunts. Users propose cash-backed challenges for others, sometimes celebrities, to perform odd or meaningful tasks for charity or entertainment. “We had Morena Baccarin pour a bucket of nacho cheese over her head,” David says, “and one of the Trailer Park Boys got buried alive for us.” These viral stunts aren’t just gimmicks; they test the boundaries of social capital, group dynamics, and the art of persuasion—hence the name Cajole. “What are people willing to do for money?” David asks. “That’s the concept.”

Still in its early stages, Cajole officially launched online in August 2024 and continues to grow. Their grassroots tactics

are complemented by strategic budgeting, influencer outreach, and an ambassador program designed to build a self-sustaining user base. “I’ve never felt such pressure about being fiduciarily responsible for other people’s money,” David admits. “But I just want to make sure I’m constantly doing what I need to do for this company to grow.” Morgan’s business acumen balances David’s creative drive, and their shared vision keeps things steady as they navigate the startup landscape.

Reflecting on their journey, Morgan and David agree that their 30-year friendship and diverse skill sets have uniquely positioned them for this ride. “We each spent the last 30 years figuring out different skills,” David says. “And hopefully these skills will come together and form the ultimate Decepticon that will make our lives much better.” With roots in camaraderie, nurtured by the freedom and encouragement of their Millbrook years, their story is proof that sometimes, the best ideas start with a prank—and end with a platform that just might change how the world gives.

JOE WENDEL ’99

FROM SILICON VALLEY TO SALT WATER: Joe Wendel’s Uncharted Course

When Joe Wendel ’99 last appeared in our alumni magazine, he was riding high at Google, leading their hardware recruiting division before taking the reins of the company’s largest onboarding program as lead “Noogler.”

Every Monday, he greeted up to 700 new hires, stepping onstage with a mic and a smile to introduce the Googlers to their first days. “It was wild and exciting,” he recalls. But despite the high-profile role and glowing career on paper, something was amiss. Burnout loomed. “I was doing super well...promotions, raises, parents were proud...but internally, I was very anxious and growing depressed.” The emails and spreadsheets, the growing dissonance between the magnitude of his stress and the impact of his labor—“was it all just about turning a button on Gmail from red to blue?”—led Joe to make a bold move. In November 2019, with no backup plan, he quit. Just months before the pandemic would spark a global wave of career re-evaluations, Joe quietly started his own. His first stop? A closet-turned-recording studio, a few voiceover gigs, and a bartending job at a legendary San Francisco dive bar. But when COVID shut down the city’s nightlife, he and his wife decided to leave the city and move to a remote house in Mendocino County amid the redwoods. There, he rediscovered his passion for basketball by coaching a local high school team and set about rediscovering himself. It was during this back-to-nature sabbatical that a college friend called with an unexpected proposition to join him as a 50/50 partner on an oyster farm in Duxbury, Massachusetts. Despite having never eaten an oyster—let alone farmed one—Joe said yes. He and his wife sold their home and relocated across the country, joining what he describes as a five-man operation managing three acres of Cape Cod Bay.

Today, Joe is the co-owner and self-titled “Chief Oyster Monger” of the Duxbury Oyster Company, overseeing the sales, distribution, and branding of their prized Prince Caspian oysters, which now ship across the U.S., from Boston to Puerto Rico and beyond.

Of Oysters, Opportunity, and Owning the Journey

Joe’s story isn’t just a career pivot—it’s a radical realignment of values. Gone are the spreadsheets and tech-world prestige. In their place: briny shellfish, early-morning tides, and real, tangible results. “I’m no longer alienated from my labor,” he says. “I know exactly what my part is, and I feel good about it.” He speaks passionately about the ecological benefits of oysters—each one filters up to 50 gallons of water daily—and the sustainable practices at their small but mighty farm. He loves watching the tide patterns, raking and handpicking the right-sized oysters, and knowing his work contributes directly to a cleaner bay and someone’s dining table. His wife, too, took a creative

turn, embracing her role as the “Shady Lady,” crafting velvet boudoir lampshades and whimsical Sasquatch resin figures while also lending a hand in the new family business.

Yet Joe is the first to admit that entrepreneurship comes with sacrifices—he hasn’t taken a real vacation in two years, his phone is constantly pinging with oyster orders, and he makes a fraction of what he did at Google. But for Joe, the rewards are richer than a tech paycheck. “I say yes to life,” he reflects. “People on their deathbeds don’t regret the things they did—they regret the things they didn’t do.” That spirit of curiosity and openness—first sparked at a basketball camp that led him to Millbrook—has carried him through every leap since.

Today, he also coaches basketball in Duxbury and mentors young players who are trying to chart their own paths. To students chasing conventional success, he offers this advice: “Keep an open mind. Nothing is forever. The job you have today might not be the job you have tomorrow—and sometimes, that’s a good thing.”

With threefold business growth in two years, new ventures into clams and scallops, and dreams of Prince Caspians landing on menus from Chicago to San Juan becoming reality, Joe Wendel is proving that fulfillment doesn’t have to follow a straight line and end at a global corporate conglomerate. For him, fulfillment is a bit jagged, wet, and messy and grows in salt water, and that’s just how he prefers it.

CARLY MCWILLIAMS ’05 Science, Public Service, and the Power of Policy

A Foundation Built on Relationships

Carly McWilliams ’05 remembers choosing Hamilton College because it felt familiar. “It reminded me a lot of Millbrook, so I knew I would be comfortable there,” she says. That sense of fit launched her on a path defined by exploration and purpose and rooted in relationships. Her academic interests ranged from communications to art history to education, and a study-abroad semester in Ireland her first year broadened her perspective in unexpected ways. “I had a really great group of 30 kids with me—it was a unique way to start college.”

A series of internships during college shaped Carly’s understanding of what she didn’t want to pursue—fashion, for example. Fellow Millbrook alum and faculty child Holly (Meigs) Noone ’94 got Carly in the door for a fast-paced internship at Tory Burch while the company was exploding with growth. She thought the experience was interesting and cool but easily ruled out fashion and opened her to new experiences. That clarity was a gift: “The process of elimination is a lot easier than figuring out exactly what you do want to do.”

It was during an internship at the 2008 Republican National Convention in Minnesota with Arthur Anthony ’07—thanks to another Millbrook connection, Gordon Pennoyer ’99—that Carly found her calling in operations and a taste for U.S. politics. “I loved it. It got me into politics in the sense that I met people working in government. It was completely serendipitous that I ended up working for the convention’s head of operations based on the fact that I was the only intern old enough to drive him around.”

A Capitol Hill Career: From Clerk to Senior Counselor

After graduating from Hamilton, Carly followed her instincts to Washington, D.C., where she secured an unpaid internship and worked retail on the side for another Millbrook alum, Bill Menard ’78. But she knew she wanted to be working in government, and by 2011, she was working on Capitol Hill as a legislative clerk for the House Energy and Commerce Committee. “It’s one of the oldest committees on the Hill, with the broadest jurisdiction,” she explains. To understand the scope of the committee’s work, “One of the chairmen used to say, ‘If it moves, it’s energy. If it doesn’t, it’s commerce.’”

Over six years, Carly worked her way up to become a professional staff member focused on FDA policy and emergency preparedness. It was the start of a deep dive into medical product regulation, one that led her to work on major legislation like the 21st Century Cures Act—a sweeping, bipartisan effort to modernize healthcare innovation and access, which was enacted into law in December 2016. “It was about making innovation faster and better and ensuring the patient perspective was present in regulatory decision making,” she says. “Looking at the full cycle, from development to delivery, and asking: How are these products helping patients? What can we learn from them?”

Eager to bring a business lens to her policy work, Carly pursued a policy-focused MBA program at the University of Minnesota. “A lot of what drives legislation comes down to economic impact—how does this create jobs, how does it affect our economy, how does this impact Americans and their daily life?” she notes. Her program emphasized the intersection of regulation and industry across sectors like healthcare, technology, and the environment, further preparing her for a transition to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Shaping National Health Policy at the FDA

Carly joined the FDA in 2017 as a senior counselor to the commissioner, Dr. Scott Gottlieb, and other agency leaders, and she became a key liaison between policy and public understanding. “My job was working on policy priorities but also packaging and communicating the policy clearly—to all stakeholders,” she says. That meant everything from strategic plans and press releases to blog posts and social media initiatives. She even helped launch “tweetorials” with the FDA commissioner to break down complex health issues in digestible weekend threads.

Her time at the FDA also coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, during which she witnessed an unprecedented regulatory response. “The FDA moved faster than I’d ever seen or imagined could be possible. It was an intense but incredible learning experience that made me admire the Agency and the value they bring to everyone in the country.” Carly worked on a range of issues—from youth tobacco use to diagnostics reform—and developed lasting admiration for the agency’s mission and impact.

Global Reach, Local Impact: Leading Diagnostic Policy at Roche

But government work requires commitment to a very particular calendar of schedules, and work at the FDA was, for the most part,

incredibly stressful. This led Carly to decide in 2020 to transition to the private sector and join Roche Diagnostics. Now four years into her role as head of regulatory policy for North America, she provides leadership in shaping the regulatory environment for the largest diagnostic company in the world. “We do everything from COVID tests to oncology diagnostics to strep and flu A/B tests that you take in your doctor’s office,” she says. “The impact of diagnostics on patients cannot be overstated, and I love working for something that I know makes a huge difference for each patient and public health.”

At the intersection of global policy and innovation, Carly works with an international team, collaborating across six continents to advance harmonization of medical regulations across the world with the intent to speed up patient access to vital diagnostic tools. “We’re trying to make regulatory requirements and standards more consistent worldwide,” she explains. “It’s like the Common App for colleges, but for diagnostics.”

Whether she’s shaping policy in D.C. or coordinating regulatory strategy across Europe, Asia, and beyond, she is focused on equity and innovation, especially in how diagnostics serve diverse populations and support public health worldwide.

Carly’s work remains grounded in the values she absorbed at Millbrook: curiosity, stewardship, and a deep sense of purpose. “Every day, I’m learning something new. And I still feel the influence of Millbrook—in how I think, how I communicate, and, most of all, how I connect with people.”

PARDIS ZAHEDI, PHD ’07: Unearthing Stories and Building Community

With a career that bridges academic rigor and community collaboration, Pardis Zahedi ’07 is redefining what it means to study the past.

She has followed, rather fearlessly, a non-linear career path. Her work has spanned continents and cultures, always grounded in a belief that heritage belongs to the people who live it. Pardis is following her heart in the community-rooted heritage work she is doing, and she is determined to let curiosity guide her. Her personal and professional pursuits are guided by a powerful and deep respect for the people and places that hold history.

Pardis’ journey—from a small town in upstate New York to the U.S. Virgin Islands by way of Europe, Central America, and Southeast Asia—has been anything but conventional. “My career has not been linear,” she shares. “That’s because I’ve always followed what I was interested in, and I’ve always had a strong pull toward both the natural and the cultural world.” That sense of purpose, rooted in curiosity and a commitment to community, has defined a career focused as much on relationships as it is on ruins.

She traces the roots of that curiosity back to her time at Millbrook. Pardis came to Millbrook as a boarder in her IVth form year. Encouraged by a friend and supported by generous financial aid, she stepped onto campus not knowing quite what to expect. She quickly found a sense of belonging. “I feel like my best memories of Millbrook are living on a campus with no distractions,” she reflects. “It was an exercise in being a part of a community, really, in the truest sense.” Though she admits she didn’t fully realize her potential as a student then, the seeds of her future were being planted: “A focus on the environment, on community, on small-scale stewardship and public service…all of that started at Millbrook.”

An advanced Anthropology course with faculty member Trip Powers during her senior year helped unlock her intellectual passion. “That was the beginning,” she says. “It was just fascinating to me—learning

about how people live, how they have lived, and how that’s changed. I remember realizing: ‘Getting paid to travel around the world and write things about interesting people and interesting cultures—that’s a job?’”

Zahedi has spent the years since proving that it is. She earned her bachelor’s degree in anthropology and archaeology at SUNY New Paltz after gathering credits at other institutions of higher learning, including Dickinson and Green Mountain colleges. Heritage preservation and horticulture were the focus of her early work out of college. She created a Maya Trail for the Belize Botanic Garden and reconstructed a traditional Mayan hut in a nine-month job as an ethnoecologist. She

also led a team in reviving an ancient lo’i patch on a permaculture farm in North Kohala, Hawaii, among other work there.

By 2013, Pardis was following another path, one that led her to St. Eustatius, locally known as ‘Statia,’ in the Dutch Caribbean, working for the St. Eustatius Center for Archaeological Research (SECAR).

As an archaeologist for SECAR, she conducted archaeological excavations, surveys, and managed the center’s artifact collection, while launching several community-based programs to close the gap between local residents and visiting researchers. “There’s a really big disconnect in the Caribbean between the scientific community, especially the visiting scientists, and the local community. Pretty early on, my commitment was to bridge that gap.”

She organized community engagement programs like “Drive-By Archaeology,” displaying signage at dig sites to spark conversations with locals. This idea led to her collaborate with a partner, Welsh marine ecologist, Matthew Davies, who would later become her husband. Pardis and Matt organized a monthly gathering, “Science Cafe,” where researchers would present to the community in an informal setting with snacks and drinks. Presentations covered a wide range of subjects, from colonial ceramics and long-forgotten shipwrecks to tropic birds, microplastics, sea turtle nesting, and coral restoration.

Her work centered not just on excavation, but on collaboration and storytelling. “We were trying to do something different—something more transparent and reciprocal. My research was specifically focused on building a conversation around the value of oral history…and that it can actually enhance the benefits of archaeological evidence.” That commitment shaped her research, blending oral histories with archival materials and material remains—from coral masonry to blue beads used as currency by enslaved people in the colonial Caribbean—to explore how Caribbean communities connect to the past.

When Pardis and Matt were married, they left the Caribbean for the UK to pursue graduate studies. An accelerated master’s degree at the University of York then led Pardis to research in the U.S., focusing her thesis on how material heritage is used to represent legacies of Black Resistance in American museums, drawing from the colonial period through present-day. This work was deeply influenced by the cultural moment of the Black Lives Matter protests and included visits to institutions like the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Civil Rights Museum, and the Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Pardis would eventually follow this research, back to the U.S. with a job in St. Louis, Missouri, where she worked as the Superintendent of Historic Sites—managing cultural institutions, heritage programming, museum exhibits, collections, and archives.

In 2019, Pardis was offered a doctoral fellowship as part of the Enduring Materialities of Colonialism: Temporality, Spatiality, and Memory project, a contemporary heritage project focused on colonial legacies of the Danish West Indies. Over the next five years, she split her time between the U.S. Virgin Islands, where she conducted fieldwork, and Denmark, where she worked as a lecturer in the Department of Sustainable Heritage and Archaeology at Aarhus University. In her doctoral research, she explored how contemporary communities engage with colonial remnants and heritage sites in a culturally diverse landscape shaped by centuries of migration and layered histories. She examined the use of mined coral in colonial architecture and its connection to modern reef decline and the cultural significance, through folklore, oral history, and a culture of care, of the non-native African baobab trees. Her research focused intently on the Danish colonial period, their exodus following the 1917 U.S. purchase of the islands, and the subsequent American influence on culture.

Today, Pardis works as an exhibit specialist and project lead for the National Park Service, Historic Preservation Training Center, through which she leads historic preservation projects in national parks across the Southeastern United States and U.S. Caribbean territories. In her spare time, she works as an independent archaeological consultant and serves on the boards of the St. George Village Botanical Garden and Finding Your Archives a Home (FYAH), and as the vice president of the St. Croix Archaeological Society, through which she offers her expertise in community heritage, museum development, and preservation. Though she recently completed her PhD, she sees her work as just beginning. “This work is about relationships,” she says. “It’s about listening. And it’s about giving people tools to tell their own stories.” As the only archaeologist currently living in St. Croix, she continues to build tools, foster trust, and bring buried histories to the surface—one site, one story, one conversation at a time.

TATE LAVITT ’10

At the Intersection of Ecosystems & Economies

When Tate Lavitt ’10 talks about his life, it’s not a neat elevator pitch or a linear résumé. It’s a cascade of stories—about camping in Mongolia, discovering a new species of moth, running multi-million dollar biotech deals, and writing prize-winning essays on biodiversity finance. If that sounds like a lot, that’s because it is.

But running through the whirlwind of experiences is a steady current of purpose: a desire to protect the planet’s biodiversity, challenge how we value nature, and find new ways to bring science and policy together. For Tate, that purpose was first set in motion at Millbrook. Tate came to Millbrook with his twin sister, Mariah, when they were just 14. Their family chose the school in part because of the Trevor Zoo—an attraction not just for its novelty, but because their father, Jed Lavitt ’73, had also attended Millbrook decades earlier and cared for animals at the zoo. As Tate shares, his father was transformed in high school. “My dad went from seeking direction as a kid to absolutely thriving at Millbrook,” Tate explains. “It completely changed his life, and he wanted us to have that same opportunity.” Though the adjustment to boarding life was rocky, Tate found solace and fascination in the zoo. He also immersed himself in ceramics, entomology, and the kind of hands-on, interdisciplinary learning that would come to define his adult experiences.

One experience, in particular, left a lasting mark on Tate: a field research expedition to Mongolia with Millbrook’s then Science Department Chair Dr. Barry Rosenbaum to study endangered argali sheep. “I’d never been camping before, and suddenly I’m halfway across the world digging latrines and collecting camel dung for fuel,” he recalls with a laugh.

The group didn’t end up collaring any sheep, but the expedition opened his eyes to field biology, global ecosystems, and the thrill of real scientific inquiry. “It was brutal, it was wild, and it was unforgettable. It changed the way I thought about science, and the world.”

That trip, coupled with on-campus conversations with and mentorship from legendary conservationists like Professor Thomas Lovejoy ’59 and Dr. Russell Mittermeier P’11, cemented Tate’s passion for biodiversity and began to shape a broader question that would follow him into adulthood: how do we assign value to nature?

Matriculating to Cornell, Tate initially set out to become a veterinarian. But after a serendipitous enrollment in a spider biology course, he found himself captivated by entomology—the study of insects. Encouraged by his grandfather, a fellow insect enthusiast who felt that inquiry in the natural world was critical to his success in other fields, Tate switched majors and spent his undergraduate years immersed in research. He played polo, joined a fraternity, studied business, and studied bugs. His work ultimately led to the identification of a new moth species, Eupsilia schweitzeri, and a research paper detailing the microscopic differences that set it apart from others. “It was an incredibly detailed, painstaking process,” he says. “But it taught me how to do hard, precise work—and how small differences can matter a lot.”

After graduating with his bachelor’s degree from Cornell, Tate took a detour into biotech sales. He excelled—eventually managing territories worth tens of millions of dollars—but the work felt transactional. “I was doing well, but I wasn’t doing what I cared about,” he reflects. That realization led him back to school. At the University of Cambridge, Tate earned a master’s in biology studying the endangered Duke of Burgundy butterfly (Hamearis lucina). His project involved analyzing how limited conservation resources could be most effectively deployed to save the species, merging ecology with cost-benefit strategy. He followed that with an MBA from Cambridge as well, where he sharpened his understanding of capital markets and risk management. Somewhere in the overlap of those two degrees, a new question emerged: could biodiversity itself be quantified as a form of financial value?

This question became the foundation of a paper Tate authored during his MBA, inspired by a lunch conversation with Lovejoy years earlier at Millbrook. It explored how Lovejoy’s invention, debt-for-nature swaps—financial arrangements in which developing countries receive debt relief in exchange for commitments to environmental protection—could be expanded and optimized. “Debt-for-nature swaps are brilliant, but there’s more we can do,” Tate explains. “The key is understanding and modeling risk—how tools that did not exist when Professor Lovejoy was originally framing debt for nature. Things like carbon credits, conservation incentives, or green infrastructure actually change the financial picture.”

The paper was selected as a finalist in a McKinsey essay competition. Its premise was simple but ambitious: if financial institutions

could account for the intrinsic and long-term economic value of biodiversity, then investments in conservation could become less risky and more attractive. “Think about a country like Madagascar,” Tate says. “It’s incredibly rich in biodiversity but considered highrisk financially. What if we could change that equation?” By building better models that capture the financial upside of saving forests or species, Tate believes we can unlock trillions in capital for climate and conservation efforts.

Today, Tate leads a global product team at a life sciences company, overseeing a $75 million business line centered on animal-derived serum used in cell growth for pharmaceuticals and research. It might seem like an unexpected role for someone with a background in insects, butterflies, and finance, but he’s found great success by thinking outside the box about the business and the biology. “I have to think about global supply chains, animal health, regulation, and economics,” he says. “It’s biodiversity, an ecosystem, in a different form.”

Tate credits Millbrook for giving him the flexibility to explore—and the confidence to pursue—unconventional paths. “Millbrook taught me that you don’t have to pick one thing. You can play polo, do ceramics, study lemurs, and talk to world-renowned scientists—and that’s all okay. In fact, it’s encouraged.” That eclectic, well-rounded education helped him learn how to learn and how to build bridges between fields that don’t always speak the same language. “I’ve spent my life connecting dots between science, policy, and finance. Millbrook was where that started.”

This June, Millbrook formally renamed the zoo the Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo in honor of Dr. Lovejoy, whose mentorship helped shape Tate’s early passion for conservation. For Tate, the moment is both symbolic and deeply personal. “Lovejoy changed my life,” he says. “And Millbrook taught me to ask big questions.”

Tate continues to explore that intersection of conservation and economics in his professional and personal life. Whether he’s structuring global contracts, advising on biodiversity policy, or modeling risk and resilience for public companies, he stays focused on the long game: preserving ecosystems, protecting the planet, and reimagining how we invest in the future. The next step in his career will be a return to school in pursuit of a PhD at the University of Oxford, and his goal will be to build on and expand the debt for nature ideas first proposed by Lovejoy. “We can’t protect what we don’t value,” he says. “And if we want to create a future that works—for people, for ecosystems, for economies, for our planet—we need to start thinking differently. I am honored to continue the work of Professor Lovejoy.”

Out of the Box, Into the Skies: MARY MA ’15 AND THE FUTURE OF SMART DRONES

When Mary Ma ’15 graduated from Millbrook, she had no idea she’d end up helping revolutionize warehouse logistics with autonomous drones.

In fact, at Barnard College, she majored in art history “At the time, I don’t think there was any way I could have foreseen myself going into robotics,” she laughs. But the path from the art world to artificial intelligence, as unexpectedasitwas,feltnaturalinretrospect: curiosity, adaptability, and a deep desire to build something useful fueled her transition.

After college, Mary stayed in New York, exploring career paths and spending time with her partner, Jackie Wu, who in 2020 was launching a startup, Corvus Robotics. “I decided to help him out with his startup, which was still very lean,” she recalls. “We werestill workingonR&D. It was me and three or four other people, including him.” During the early days of the company, which also coincided with the COVID pandemic, Mary taught herself web development and dove into the world of warehouseroboticsandautomation through hands-on learning and research and development withthosewhounderstoodthe technology,includingoneofthefounding partnerswhostudiedaerospace engineeringatMIT.

Fast forward a few years, and Corvus is now a growing startup—still under 50 employees— developing fully autonomous drones that perform cycle counting in warehouses. This once manual, dangerous job (often requiring employees to ride scissor lifts 40 feet in the

air) is now done by AI-powered drones, designed from the ground up by the Corvus team.

“These drones don’t rely on Wi-Fi or GPS, which is a game-changer in the concreteand-metal environments of warehouses,” Mary explains. “There’s a basic map with measurements onboard the drone…and it builds on top of that using sensors all around it to create a digital twin of the physical space.”

The results speak for themselves. Warehouse clients—some of the largest retail brands in the U.S.—have seen inventory accuracy rise from 80–85% to

more than 99%. “That really speeds things up,” Mary says, “because if somebody is going to that location expecting something, they will find it.”

At Corvus, Mary’s title is production lead, but she has worn many hats: recruiter, head of manufacturing, booth staffer at trade shows, and product ambassador. “We’re still a small team, so if something comes up or somebody needs a hand, I jump in,” she says. “I would call myself kind of a jack—or I guess ‘Jill’—of all trades.”

Though the tech industry remains maledominated, Mary finds the robotics space refreshingly meritocratic. “Everybody is a nerd,” she says with a smile. “Nobody really cares about what you’ve done or where you went to school. They just love geeking out about stuff.”

Today, based in the Bay Area, Mary remains driven by the potential of mission-driven innovation. “We’re focused on growth and providing real value,” she says. “We want to make a positive contribution to one of the backbones of the world—the supply chain.”

What’s next? Mary won’t say exactly, but teases: “We have many exciting ideas coming up…not just drones, but solving other big problems, too. I’m excited for it.”

ARTHUR XIAO ’15 RELENTLESS CURIOSITY: A Scholar in Search of Answers to Big Questions

From Millbrook School to earning a bachelor’s degree at Amherst College and pursuing a PhD at the University of Michigan, Arthur Xiao has always been deeply inquisitive.

At Millbrook, teachers recognized and nurtured his love of learning in ways that left a lasting impression. Whether accelerating through calculus, discovering the power of statistics, or reflecting on Kafka’s The Metamorphosis, Arthur recalls his classes as intellectually formative and his teachers—from Mr. Zeiser and Ms. Clizbe to Mr. Powers and Mr. Clizbe—as supportive of inquiry for its own sake. Outside the classroom,

he found meaning in small moments: getting lost on the cross-country course (more than once), winning Most Improved Runner, and standing on the Flagler Quad on quiet mornings, appreciating the beauty around him. As a head waiter, dorm leader, Latin student, and mathematicianin-the-making, Arthur left Millbrook prepared to ask the big questions that have shaped his journey ever since.

From Climate Awareness to Action

Arthur traces the journey of his current research back to a pivotal moment at Amherst, where reading Naomi Klein’s This Changes Everything made him realize the depth of the climate change problem and need to address it. This awakening prompted a shift from his original academic interests—a major in physics as an undergrad— to a focused pursuit of renewable energy technologies, including early work at Michigan on photoelectrochemical water splitting for hydrogen production. Although funding cuts eventually redirected his efforts, the urgency of environmental challenges remained a central motivation in his career as he researched alongside Professor Zetian Mi, who is focused on semiconductors and their applications in electronic, photonic, clean energy, and quantum devices and systems.

Life in the Lab: The Grind and the Grit

Arthur’s PhD experience at Michigan has been defined by intense, sustained commitment—working 12-hour days, often seven days a week, for six years. “A typical day might start at 8:30 a.m. and end around 9 or 10 p.m.,” he shares. “There was a stretch when I worked 60 consecutive days without a break.” Despite the grueling schedule, Arthur found the intellectual rigor rewarding, even if he admits, “It was worth it but not something I would probably choose to do again.”

His lab environment was highly independent but deeply collaborative. Arthur often juggled multiple projects simultaneously, working with a core group of peers while staying connected to a broader network of researchers. “It’s too demanding for any one person to carry a project alone,” he says, describing a web of interlinked efforts across subgroups.

Exploring the Frontier of Semiconductor Physics

In March of this year, Arthur successfully defended his doctoral thesis. Most recently, he has been immersed in cutting-edge research on semiconductor materials—specifically, group III-nitrides like gallium nitride, indium nitride, and aluminum nitride, managing stress on these materials to make improvements in device performance. His work contributes to improving the efficiency of micro-LED technologies, particularly in the elusive red spectrum, a challenge in the field due to the complexity of alloying materials like indium with gallium nitride. Arthur and his team successfully produced the most efficient submicrometer red LED to date, a breakthrough with potential applications in cell phone and virtual and augmented reality displays.

A significant portion of Arthur’s thesis centers on heteroepitaxy— crystalline layers of one material grown on the substrate of a different material—applied to the versatile three-nitride semiconductor family. By carefully layering materials with differing bandgaps, Arthur’s work opens possibilities for highly efficient solar energy devices and compact UV and visible light sources. His research relies on custom-built lab equipment affectionately referred to by the team as their “babies,” and their findings advance the foundational knowledge crucial to next-generation optoelectronics.

Curiosity-Driven Science

While his research has practical implications—supporting technologies such as faster phone chargers and micro-LEDs—Arthur emphasizes his deep commitment to the scientific question itself rather than immediate utility. “When we are talking about innovation, we cannot think about the end result,” he says. “I’d much rather just think about how interesting this is.” This stance has led him to reflect critically on the direction of academic research, noting the tension between curiositydriven inquiry and funding models that demand rapid, commercially viable, and profitable outcomes.

“If I do research, I want to do what I say I’m doing. If I want to make money, I’ll make tons of money. But I don’t want to pretend.”

Validation

Successfully defending his thesis this spring marked a surprising and emotional milestone. “I had no idea I was going to defend until 16 days before it happened,” he says. “So I worked nonstop to meet the deadline—but that wasn’t much different from the last six years.” For Arthur, the achievement was both a personal validation and a moment of release. “I feel pride, relief, and mostly surprise,” he shares. His parents have been extremely supportive of all of his choices—his mother is thankful for his success, and his father, an optimist, has reminded him to keep life’s challenges in perspective and remember that “life is meant to be enjoyed.”

What’s Next?

Though deeply committed to the pursuit of knowledge, Arthur has grown disillusioned with the institutional realities of academic research—particularly in engineering—where funding structures often prioritize short-term utility over genuine inquiry. “If I’d known the funding situation going in, I wouldn’t have done it,” he reflects. He’s critical of a system that rewards the production of

narrowly useful but intellectually uninspired results, shaped more by government-driven grant mandates than by scientific curiosity.

“I do like research, but I don’t want to just produce numbers. I don’t know where that’s possible, but I am trying to find that place next.”

While he will remain at Michigan as a postdoc through July to help transition lab projects, Arthur is actively exploring alternatives that might offer a more principled approach to inquiry—perhaps beyond the university setting. He’s clear-eyed about the shortcomings of both U.S. and Chinese research systems but remains open to where his path may lead. For now, Arthur is taking a breath after years of rigorous work and keeping open the possibility of return to research, academia, or something entirely new.

A bout of illness in 2023, which lingered for months until it was eased by triads of Chinese herbal remedies, has sparked a new interest. “It made a difference in my life. I want to understand how it works,” Arthur says. In the near term, he is considering studying herbal medicine and documenting its effects—driven by personal experience and curiosity rather than institutional pressure.

Looking further ahead, Arthur is eyeing machine learning as a potential bridge between his technical background and new applications. “I need to learn it. I think that’s where engineering research should go,” he says. How to support himself through that transition remains a big question, and this might be the most challenging one he has faced yet.

ETHAN ABRAHAM ’19 A Mind for Molecules: From Millbrook to MIT

When Ethan Abraham arrived at Millbrook School for his senior year, he didn’t know it would mark the turning point of his academic life. He was a dedicated hockey player, and until then, athletics had shaped much of his identity. But that year shifted everything. It was at Millbrook that Ethan decided to pivot away from the rink and toward a future defined not by goals and assists, but by atoms and equations.

That decision, supported by inspiring faculty members, ultimately set him on a path from Millbrook to MIT, where he’s now pursuing a PhD in chemistry with cuttingedge research that could one day reshape the way we store and use energy.

Ethan’s senior year at Millbrook left a lasting impact. “It might have had a disproportionate influence on my trajectory,” he reflects. “It was where I really decided to double down on academics.” Encouraged by teachers like Dr. LaCosse, who taught Advanced Physics, and Coach Sorriento, who provided guidance both on and off the ice, Ethan began to lean into the intellectual challenges that would shape his future. “That physics class really hooked me. We worked on problems that weren’t just part of the standard curriculum— they pushed us to think deeply.” That taste of real problem-solving planted a seed, one that would continue to grow through college and into graduate school.

After Millbrook, Ethan enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania, where he initially thought he might study biochemistry or enter the biotech world. But a freshman honors physics class taught

by Charles Kane—one of the field’s most influential theorists—quickly changed that. “He’s a potential Nobel laureate, and he made physics feel like storytelling,” Ethan recalls. A twist of fate sealed the deal: the night before a midterm, Ethan invented a practice problem involving a frictionless block and a stream of water. The very next day, that exact problem appeared on the test. “It was either serendipity or a little nudge from the

universe,” he laughs. He aced the question— and the class—and officially declared himself a physics major the following year.

Ethan’s academic ambition didn’t stop with physics. At Penn, he also earned minors in math and computer science, studied quantum mechanics, and co-revived the university’s quantum computing club. “We weren’t building quantum computers,” he clarifies, “but we were building understanding—

reading papers, hosting speakers, trying to wrap our heads around the field.” He took courses in everything from quantum computation to electrochemistry, and by his fifth year, he had completed both a bachelor’s and a master’s in physics. Along the way, he developed a love for fundamental research and began to see how deep questions—about atoms, electrons, and energy—could have wide-reaching implications.

Much of Ethan’s undergraduate research focused on molecular dynamics—computer simulations that help scientists understand how particles move and interact. His first major project, under the guidance of his professor and research mentor Abraham Nitzan, examined thermal conductivity in polymer wires, materials used in everything from electronics to clothing. “Professor Nitzan is a world leader in the field of chemical dynamics and the effect of molecular vibrations on reaction phenomena. We wanted to know how stretching or twisting these wires changed how they conduct heat,” he explains. The work was pure science—foundational rather than applied—but it opened a window into the tiny, vibrating world of molecules and how their movements affect energy systems. His first paper, published in the Journal of Chemical Physics, revealed surprising results: twisting polymer wires can actually increase their ability to transfer heat, a finding with potential relevance to next-generation materials and nanotechnologies.

Now completing his first year as a PhD student at MIT, Ethan is still simulating particles but this time with an eye toward solving one of the world’s most pressing challenges: better batteries. His current research focuses on electrochemical interfaces—the regions where battery components interact on a molecular level—and how those reactions can be

modeled more accurately. He works with two professors from different departments: Troy Van Voorhis (chemistry) and Martin Bazant (chemical engineering), a co-advising arrangement that allows Ethan to bridge theoretical methods with real-world applications. “One of them specializes in the electronic structure of materials, the other in electrochemical kinetics,” he says. “It turns out that their work can be combined in a really powerful way, and I am fortunate to participate in bringing their expertise together.”

At its core, Ethan’s research is about improving the science behind lithium-ion batteries and other related technologies—the kind that power our phones, laptops, and electric cars. Specifically, he’s studying how the speed of chemical reactions (the “kinetics”) of battery interfaces can be influenced by the microscopic structure of materials. Improved kinetics could mean faster charging and increased lifespan by limiting the side reactions that lead to degradation. “It’s about helping us move toward safer, cheaper, more efficient energy storage,” Ethan explains. “That’s key if we want to scale up technologies like solar power.” His work may be deeply technical, but the goal is universal: to improve energy systems and make them more accessible and reliable for everyone.

Despite the heavy computational work, Ethan’s research has one foot firmly planted in the real world. “Even though I’m simulating molecules, the bigger picture is very clear—this could affect everything from EVs to renewable grids.” He’s currently setting up simulations that model lithium-ion movement in different battery materials, including newer, more sustainable alternatives to cobalt. “If we can understand how these materials behave on a microscopic level, we can design batteries that perform better and last longer,” he explains. It’s demanding, detail-oriented

work that often requires many iterations and precise programming. But for Ethan, it’s deeply fulfilling.

Outside the lab, Ethan’s curiosity and sense of community remain strong. He still sings occasionally—mostly informally at Hillel services—and enjoys staying connected to friends from Millbrook and Penn. His passion for mentoring and collaboration is evident in the way he talks about his professors and peers. “I’m lucky,” he says. “Both of my advisors are incredibly supportive, and we have a real team mentality in the lab.” Funding for his research currently comes from MIT, but he’s also applied for several prestigious fellowships through the National Science Foundation and Department of Energy. “It would be great to secure one, but for now, I’m just grateful to be doing work I believe in.”

What comes after the PhD? Ethan is still open. He’s interested in staying in academia— perhaps as a professor who leads both research and industry collaborations—but he’s not ruling out the private sector either. “The goal is to stay close to the science,” he says. “Whether that’s at a university or a research lab or somewhere else, I want to be where new ideas are being tested and built into something real.” Wherever he ends up, it’s clear that Ethan’s path will continue to be defined by the same intellectual curiosity, humility, and sense of service that Millbrook helped cultivate.

“One of the things Millbrook gave me was confidence,” Ethan says. “I came in unsure of who I was and left with the feeling that I could actually take on big questions—and contribute to the answers.” It’s a legacy that continues to shape his work every day. From a student in AP Physics to a scientist at MIT simulating the future of energy, Ethan’s journey is a testament to what can happen when challenge meets inspiration.

Class Notes

Class of 1948

Gordon Lamb and his wife of 66 years are living in a senior community in Florida, enjoying watching their progeny excel. Their son is running a wave energy company, and their daughter is leading a world-wide career counseling service. One granddaughter recently earned her PhD in anesthesiology, and another graduated from Yale with her medical degree. One grandson swam in the last two Olympic trials, coming within .04 of a second of making the team in Paris. Another grandson, who is fluent in Arabic, planned much of the 2024 Reagan National Forum.

Class of 1958

Peter Jackson remains a stalwart supporter of Millbrook, crediting his own experience as providing him with “life-changing opportunities.” More recently, he has been very involved in musical initiatives at Salisbury College. He is also a food enthusiast who loves engaging with chefs and other restaurant guests about the ingredients in his favorite dishes, particularly pasta and seafood!

Class of 1961

Enos Throop reflected recently on how his time at Millbrook helped set him up for success in college and beyond. He particularly appreciates the Community Service Program, which he believes was integral to his development. Lately, he has been busy renovating his home, adding an elevator and updates to his home office in his continuous pursuit of improvement and comfort.

Class of 1942

Recently restored was a portrait of Thomas Hazzard ’42, who volunteered for the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II and lost his life in service on September 22, 1944. This portrait commemorates Thomas’s selfless bravery and serves as a lasting tribute to all alumni and community members who have answered the call to serve our nation, and it proudly hangs in Anthony House, Millbrook’s new alumni welcome center. Originally, it hung in Mr. Pulling’s office for many years until the Pentagon requested use of it pre-COVID. After several years, the Hazzard family, including Thomas’s nephew, Peter Hazzard ’66, and his wife, Licia, brought the painting home to Millbrook.

Class of 1959

Albert Trezza stopped by campus in November to take a quick tour. Albert is retired from a long career as an attorney. He is living on his farm in Tivoli, New York, just 40 minutes from Millbrook’s campus. He donated part of his land to the Dutchess Land Conservancy (DLC). While visiting Millbrook, Albert had the opportunity to meet Head of School Jonathan Downs ’98 and shared many fond recollections: spending a lot of time in JUG— where students were punished by copying encyclopedia entries— the smokehouse that existed on campus, and working for the Millbrook Bank, an experience that shaped his early-career mindset.

Class of 1964

Peter Mithoefer is currently living in New Mexico, near the Colorado border, a move motivated by his desire to be close to his grandchildren. Family remains his priority! While he was unable to return to Millbrook for his 60th reunion in 2024, he remains connected to his alma mater and is in touch, especially with classmate Austin Wand.

Ralph Poole has always been passionate about hockey. He still follows both the boys and girls Millbrook hockey teams and also closely watches Hobart and Cornell hockey. Ralph is very involved in the life of his family: he has three sons (two live in Chicago, and one lives in upstate New York) and three granddaughters. He continues to live on his family farm, and while he has given up farming himself, he now rents out portions of his land (about 800 acres) to other farmers.

Class of 1965 60th Reunion

Dudley Clark is a frequent visitor and member of the Botanical Gardens in Denver, Colorado, and is enthusiastic about their beautiful exhibits and his own love of gardening. He shared recently that his deep love of gardens and horticulture began during his time at Millbrook when he worked in the school’s greenhouse for his community service. When not enjoying a stroll through the gardens, Dudley remains an active real estate agent and owner of several rental properties.

Eric Kocher spent many years as a lawyer focused on homelessness and poverty and remains deeply passionate about conservation work. He has been living in Santa Barbara for a few years with his partner and frequently travels between the East and West Coasts to see his son and grandchild.

Eric is also a motorcycle enthusiast and is currently involved in a lighthouse restoration project in Alaska, which he hopes will become a tourist destination.

Class of 1966

Harold T. White III recently reflected on his Millbrook experience when he met with Keith Del Valle of Millbrook’s Advancement Office. He remembers

being a particularly focused student. The Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo was significant, and Frank Trevor had a notable impact on him. After graduating from Millbrook, Harry graduated from Northwestern University before entering a professional teaching career at Tilton School and Manhattanville College. Harry loves to travel and shared highlights from a particularly memorable trip to the Artic, where he encountered severe gale-force winds.

Class of 1963

Doug Finch shares how things become different when you don’t know how much you’ll be able to do in the future. Johnny Dawson ‘63 (founder of New Riders of the Purple Sage and former bandmate of Jerry Garcia) was a much-loved classmate who got Doug into the music that he celebrated at Woodstock. More recently, he was rocking when he took his 87-year-old lady on the Jam Cruise (with musician Andy Frasco) on Valentines Day. Reminiscing about his days at Millbrook, Doug found his experience with students and faculty was wonderful, and Millbrook’s academics were on par with Cornell’s. Doug is proud to share that his daughter, Barbara Rebeor, was just honored as Lee County, Florida, teacher of the year within a group of 5,000 teachers.

Class Notes

Class of 1971

David Miller was active at the zoo and in the choir during his years at Millbrook, and his love of music has not waned. Music continues to be a significant part of his life, as he sings at his church in Houston, Texas. David is father to Kathryn ’00, who now lives in Washington and runs a seed company.

Class of 1972

Dorothy (Quart) Winkler is living in Colorado and working at a local hospital. She is also an avid swimmer and enjoys staying active. When not working or heading to the pool or the great outdoors, Dorothy loves spending time with her daughter. While Dorothy only attended Millbrook for one year, she remains deeply connected to the community and the lessons she learned as a student. She also keeps in touch with Millbrook friends Kris Reid ’74, Carey Birmingham ’73, and Alex Parish ’72.

Class of 1973

Carey Birmingham is living in San Antonio, Texas, with his wife and daughter. He attended his Millbrook 50th reunion in June 2024 and was struck by how much the campus has changed. He thoroughly enjoyed gathering with classmates he had not seen in quite some time and remains in touch with his Class of 1973 friends Francis White, Chris Brady, Henri Gourd, Randall Wallace, and Russ Miller.

Class of 1974

Peter Beaven has been living in Scotland since 2001, working for a community that supports adults with intellectual disabilities and autism.

Class of 1975

50th Reunion

Keith Harrington has kept in touch with Bill McNamara over the 50 years since their graduation and hears good feedback on Millbrook events from his nephew, Andrew Harrington ’09. He is excited that Millbrook continues to grow and remains a school that students love attending.

Bill McNamara is enjoying spectating at Notre Dame lacrosse games, cheering on his son, Tommy, who plays midfield. Bill is still running Haverford Hotel Partners, L.P., the company he founded in 1993.

Class of 1976

Simon Sidamon-Eristoff remains close to his Millbrook friends John Dubaz, Bill Menard, and Bill McNamara, and is already thinking about his upcoming 50th reunion in 2026. Simon and his wife, Nancy, continue to live in Washington, D.C., and his three children are doing well. He shares that his son, Constantine, currently lives in Queens, New York, where he owns and runs a jewelry company.

Class of 1978

John Goodkind spent his career in New York City as a commercial real estate broker in a high-pressure and competitive industry. Fifteen years ago, he moved to Laguna Beach, California, following a difficult period in his life. But this change led him to meet his current wife, Anita, who played a major role in his decision to relocate. Many of his family members remain in Rye, New York, and despite the distance, he remains close with them. He stays active, enjoys playing pickleball, and is involved with Laguna Little League.

Tom Tortolani lives in Castro Valley, California, and has spent his career in software sales and development. While semi-retired, he continues to consult for companies in the field, and he is currently focused on home improvements. He has two sons who live nearby in the Bay Area.

Class of 1983

Drew Effron manages residential flipping of multifamily homes, mainly in the New York City area. His children graduated from Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School, and they are currently at Princeton University and the University of Pennsylvania. Drew enjoys spending time out in the Hamptons, where both of his brothers reside.

Class of 1985 40th Reunion

Alan Gignoux has been investigating the complex issues surrounding the Albertan oil industry since 2010. His photographs record the ruthless exploitation of a valuable natural resource, as well as the explosive economic growth in the region. Now, his photographs, recorded interviews, and video recordings have been developed into a feature-length documentary, Oil Sands, following an awardwinning photobook of the same name. Alan is always working on the next project, and soon he hopes to be publishing a magazine entitled Tangier, which will document the lives of crab fishermen on Tangier Island in the Chesapeake Bay.

Class of 1986

Gregory Entringer is living in Cherry Hills Village, Colorado, and working in new development of residential homes. A basketball player at Millbrook, he remains a passionate sports fan and believes that sports ultimately provide valuable life lessons,

including conflict resolution, framing arguments, and understanding different viewpoints. Greg and his wife, Jessica, have a son and a daughter, and they recently visited Millbrook with their children as they consider boarding school for their daughter, who plays competitive hockey.

Class of 1990

Whit Pepper loves living in the Dallas area and hopes to connect with more Millbrook alums who live and work nearby! He and his wife recently finished building a new home, which they love. He gives credit for the beautiful finishing touches to his wife, who has expertise in interior design. Whit is currently leading a financial services company that focuses on acquiring intelligence firms. He is optimistic about the company’s future while anticipating an exit several years down the road.

Caroline (Bozorth) Sayan partnered with her colleague from Christie’s, Cat Manson, in 2020 to start Art Market Mentors, a voluntary mentorship program, which received over 600 mentee applications in the first year and matched over 300 individuals since then. The program pairs people from across the industry on a oneto-one basis, allowing mentors to provide advice in work related to the arts. Caroline and Cat were featured in The Art Newspaper where they shared, “During a complex year, the art world remains a challenging place to navigate. With job losses, market shifts and a changeable environment, career support can be hard to find. ... Attracting and retaining talent is vital to invigorate the art world and keep it relevant.”

Caroline was also quoted as an arts market expert in the New York Times in an article noting the recalibration of pricing in the arts markets as they move out of a two-year slump following stratospheric rises in prices just after COVID.

Alumni Profile

ELISABETH SELDES ANNACONE ’81

When the 2025 Writers Guild Awards were announced, cheers rang out across the Millbrook community: one of our own, Elisabeth Seldes Annacone ’81, earned top honors in the TV & Streaming Motion Pictures category for her HBO Max film, The Great Lillian Hall.

But when Elisabeth first arrived at Millbrook as a Vth former, she didn’t see herself as a writer. Despite growing up in a literary household— her mother a journalist, her father a literary agent—she had no intention of following in their footsteps.

What drew her to Millbrook from New York City was not the classroom, but the countryside. A lifelong “animal nut,” she jumped at the chance to bring her beloved horse to school and visit the Trevor Zoo. She fondly remembers the resident otters at the time: Horatio and Cassandra.

While she soaked up the beauty of the Mid-Hudson Valley—often racing through meals to squeeze in nature walks with friends Lisa Magadini ’81 and Tom Durand ’80—Elisabeth also found unexpected inspiration in the classroom. Philosophy class with Mr. Post introduced her to Socrates and Plato, and it was English teacher Dr. Skinner who first told her, “You’re a writer.” She took his belief in her to heart. He worked closely with her on essays, helped guide her early efforts, and even wrote her college recommendations—despite leaving Millbrook before her VIth form year.

Elisabeth went on to Skidmore College, double majoring in French and English. She imagined herself working behind the scenes in the writing world—as a producer or editor—but her path soon shifted. After starting as an intern at NPR’s All Things Considered, she landed a production assistant role on James Toback’s The Pickup Artist, followed by work in director Oliver Stone’s New York office on his 1987 film, Wall Street. A move to Los Angeles to finish the film eventually led her to a realization: she wanted to be part of the storytelling process itself.

She began developing television movies at Wilshire Court Productions before going on to work for four years with Francis Ford Coppola and then to a senior VP position at MGM Studios. Ultimately, Elisabeth decided to pursue her MFA in screenwriting at UCLA (where she is a frequent lecturer), and it was in one of her graduate workshops that the seed for The Great Lillian Hall was planted. After delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the WGA writer’s strike, the film premiered on HBO on May 31, 2024.

Today, Elisabeth is still writing—often at her dining room table, just like her mother once did. She is currently working on a new movie and developing a television series. Her journey from Millbrook’s campus to the Writers Guild stage reminds us that inspiration can strike in unexpected ways—and that a few wise words from a teacher can last a lifetime.

Class of 1991

Paul Dunk has been with Charles Schwab for over 15 years as a financial consultant, and he put his financial expertise to work in the company’s Chicago office. He and his wife, Jennifer, have two children. One is entering high school, and the other is currently applying to college. Both children attend a local day school in the Chicago area.

Class of 1995 30th Reunion

In her second year as chief executive officer of Fenimore Asset Management, Anne Putnam led the firm’s 2024 celebration of its 50th anniversary— a milestone that reflects five decades of investment excellence and a deep commitment to clients and community alike. Based in upstate New York, Fenimore has long taken pride in its independent, value-driven approach to managing assets for individuals, families, and institutions. Anne has played a key role in the firm’s growth over the past 20 years, reinforcing its investment philosophy and also a culture of service, in true Millbrook fashion.

The Fenimore team, with Anne’s commitment, has shown strong community involvement, partnering with food pantries across the Capital District and joining forces with the City Mission of Schenectady to serve meals to those in need. The firm is also raising awareness of impressive nonprofits dedicated to education, healthcare, human services, youth development, and the arts, including the Fenimore Art Museum.

Class of 1992

Chris Drago participated in a Dutchess County Tourism networking event at the Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo, catching up with Dr. Alan Tousignant and others. Drago is a member of the Dutchess County Legislature representing District 19, which encompasses Millbrook School.

Class of 1996

Jack Schur is living and working in Basalt, Colorado. Having transitioned from practicing law to playing music, Jack continues to follow his entrepreneurial interests and is now running two local businesses: a dry cleaner and a bagel shop. The latter, Open Sesame, serves excellent food, including a variety of organic bagels and cream cheeses, plus desserts; it’s no wonder the shop is always bustling with activity. Patrons also like Jack’s focus on three key pillars: earth (sourcing local ingredients), mirth (fun menu puns and friendly staff), and worth (valuing the human connections made inside the shop).

Class of 1991

Rufus Wainwright rang in the New Year with Sara Bareilles. Accompanied by the National Symphony Orchestra, the two singers performed Bareilles’s “She Used to Be Mine” from her Broadway musical Waitress on PBS’ 2025 New Year’s Eve show.

Class of 1997

Dave and Danielle (Derbes) Guerra recently relocated from Austin, Texas, to Cary, North Carolina, where they are appreciative of the better housing market. Danielle worked at the Container Store in Austin prior to their move but has since joined forces with Dave in IT work. They make it a tradition to rent a home in Sharon, Connecticut, in close proximity to Millbrook, to attend reunions and reconnect with friends. They were most recently on campus during Alumni Weekend 2024.

Class of 2002

Nick Hoagland has been keeping busy in his career in maritime finance. Having lived in London for a number of years, Nick moved back to New York City and has been enjoying city life over the last four years.

Class of 2006

Xavier Van Meerbeek and his wife, Megan Pey, are enjoying life with their two little girls: Gala and Ines, 4 and 2.5 years old, respectively. They are full-time in the Hudson Valley in Kingston, New York. Xavier’s business, The Vaan Group, is continuing to grow! The company is at 55+ people now and very lucky to count some of the most notable brands in its portfolio. As always, it’s been short steps, long vision, and Xavier and his partner, Choung, will continue to build the business brick by brick. Twitter has become a massive sales channel for Vaan, mostly through Xavier’s personal account, which was started by Olly Cohen ’16 during a summer internship many years ago. Olly grew the account, using some non-traditional methods, to a point of decent notoriety and impact. Xavier shares, “I learned as much from him as I hope he did from us.”

Class of 1997

Screenwriter and film producer Dominic Bergeron (known professionally as Dominic James) visited Millbrook in October, bringing his film Mlle Bottine for a special showing ahead of its November 29 release. The Millbrook audience was the first in North America to enjoy the family-friendly movie.

Prior to the screening, Bergeron dropped in on Theater Director Elaine Lifter’s morning playwriting class. Before answering students’ questions about screenwriting and the movie industry, he inspired them with a synopsis of his journey from Millbrook to career success.

After Millbrook, Bergeron had a short stint as a professional hockey goalie before moving to Los Angeles to immerse himself in the film industry. He went on to direct movies like I’m Not There (2007), Die (2010), and Angle Mort (2011). He eventually bought a production company, Productions La Fête, and began making his own films, including “Coco Ferme” and “Mlle Bottine.” Promoting his latest film is what brought him back to Millbrook.

Releasing Mlle Bottine is a huge step toward even bigger things for Bergeron and La Fête. We’re excited to see what’s next.

Class of 1998

Emily (Dubow) Smith (pictured with Keith Del Valle) is currently a history and economics teacher at The Bishop’s School, a highly rigorous academic institution in San Diego. Her family moved from Australia to San Diego due to her husband’s job, and while they loved Australia, they have settled in well on the West Coast!

Class of 1999

Tad O’Had cemented his legacy as the winningest head coach in Kansas City pro hockey history with his 187th victory for the Kansas City Mavericks on March 1, 2025. In addition, this accomplishment also makes Tad the winningest head coach in Mavericks history.

Under O’Had’s leadership, the Mavericks are once again dominating the ECHL Western Conference.

Now in his fifth season, O’Had has transformed the Mavericks into a powerhouse, capturing a regular season championship, setting an ECHL record with 29 road wins in a single season, and leading the team to its first-ever Kelly Cup Finals appearance. With O’Had behind the bench, the Mavericks continue to set new standards of success for Kansas City hockey.

Class of 2004

Colin Norton is currently managing Sugar Maple Farm, a 460-acre equestrian estate in Poughquag, New York. This thoroughbred breeding operation houses 110 horses, and last spring they had 82 foals! He hopes to connect with Millbrook students who might have an interest in equine veterinary science.

Class of 2007

Lulu (Carter) Ryan is living in Palm Beach with her husband, Cy, and two children, Cy (4) and Margot (2). She works full time in marketing as Director of Brand Strategy for Cox Ideabar. Her experience stretches across a range of creative disciplines, including brand positioning, product innovation, brand identity development, creative campaign concepting, and company and product naming. Lulu has worked with multiple Fortune 500 companies on key branding initiatives with a client list including: Hershey, Conagra, Proctor & Gamble, Coca-Cola, Canopy Growth, COTY, Cox Automotive, Cox Business, BrightFarms, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Class of 2008

Sam Augustine is living in Colorado, having recently built a home in Basalt in the picturesque Aspen area. He initially moved to Aspen to work as a fly fisherman before landing at the Aspen Hotel. In 2016 he transitioned to real estate and now works as a broker with Compass, ranking among the top 20 real estate brokers in the area.

Nick Farrell is currently a senior sales relationship manager at MarketAxess in Southern California. An entrepreneur at heart, Nick successfully launched and later sold an educational news and information platform for K-12 schools, Bites Media. Nick grew the business from two employees to over 50 and led all aspects of the business, including operations, technology, recruiting, marketing, and finance. He’s still in touch with many of his Millbrook friends and recently attended a classmate’s wedding in Portugal.

Class of 2009

Kalli (Havens) Ey recently gave birth to a baby boy, Johnny! She and her husband, John, moved to Charlotte from New York City five years ago, but because her mother still resides in Millbrook, Kalli is a frequent visitor to campus. Kalli is a teacher at Trinity Episcopal School in Charlotte and loves her continuing work in education.

Class of 2010

Dillon Lawson-Johnston joined a panel in Dubai in February hosted by Versatile Synergy and Continuous Ventures and representing his company, Guggenheim Brothers Media. Their discussion highlighted the excitement and opportunity around building businesses in the UAE, with a focus on Guggenheim Brothers Media’s favorite topic—the power of great people when it comes to driving innovation. In 2023 Dillon co-founded Guggenheim

Class of 2008

Brothers Media, a private investment firm focused on early- to growth-stage media and entertainment companies.

Class of 2012

You might have recognized her name when Chloe Gbai had a shoutout on the Oscar stage during the acceptance speech for Best Documentary Short Film, The Only Girl in the Orchestra . Chloe is the manager of Original Documentaries at Netflix and was key to bringing this story to life. She is also an adjunct assistant professor of film at Columbia University and immersed in the film scene in New York City. Recently, she was a judge at the PitchBLACK Film Forum, where she and other judges awarded $610,000 to film and immersive projects and creatives. PitchBLACK Forum is the largest pitch competition for independent filmmakers and creative technologists developing new projects about the global Black experience.

Race Bottini ’08 lives on Roosevelt Island with his wife, Kaitlyn, and their 7-month-old daughter, Nellie. He currently works as a staff data analyst at Scholastic, where he’s helping shape the company’s digital future—most recently by leading efforts to launch and track business performance for Scholastic’s Canadian division via a new website. His work at Scholastic has been central in unifying global data streams, improving marketing segmentation, and supporting strategic decisions through predictive analytics.

Race’s path to publishing was not necessarily conventional. After earning his economics degree from Vassar, he worked in baseball operations for the Washington Nationals—a fitting first job for someone who played the sport throughout high school and college. But the business of baseball didn’t quite match the love he had for the game, so he returned to Vassar as an assistant coach for the men’s baseball team. A move to New York City followed, and with it came a new role at fitness giant Equinox. What began as a job in personal training grew into a leadership position managing operations, staff, and membership strategy for the club.

While at Equinox, Race pursued an MBA at NYU Stern, enrolling just before the COVID pandemic upended the fitness industry. The shift led him to Scholastic, where he found a new professional rhythm that balances data strategy and creative impact. What’s up next for Race? He recently received some good news from Columbia University and will be an adjunct professor in the fall.

Whether he’s building dashboards or reading bedtime stories to Nellie, Race continues to find joy in learning and leading.

Avey Menard has been living in Seattle for the past few years with their partner. Avey studied law at the University of Michigan, and after the bar exam hopes to practice Indian law, working with tribes across Washington state and advocating for justice. Avey actively serves the local community through food banks, generator initiatives, and old-fashioned listening to those in need and was excited to participate in Millbrook’s Alumni Summit this April. While Avey talked about a career in law, they also shared a love of ceramics and basketball, which started at Millbrook, along with guidance on navigating the social landscape in boarding school.

William Munck initially attended Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, to pursue a degree and play collegiate lacrosse before transferring to SMU in Dallas, where he obtained degrees in both economics and political science. A law degree from Baylor Law School followed, and he now practices corporate and securities law with clients across the country, but primarily in the Dallas Fort-Worth area. Recently, his firm launched a new practice initiative focused on the emerging and constantly changing world of Name, Image, and Likeness (https://www.wearenil.com/), with a team behind it made up of former collegiate athletes and even a former Olympic gymnast. He and his colleagues work with athletes, collectives, universities, and brands in all facets of this new world of deal making. They also provide educational services to student athletes and warn them of the many pitfalls that can come up in these deals and, of particular note, the risks that international students face with how these NIL deals can impact their student visa status.

Alumni Profile

SAM BAILLY ’09

Sam Bailly’s journey into the renewable energy field has taken him from New York to Iceland and London, across both U.S. coasts and finally back to New England. Along the way, he’s cultivated a passion that took root during his time at Millbrook: a deep commitment to sustainability and stewardship of the natural world.

Though Sam admits that academics weren’t his focus in high school, he excelled on the athletic field, lettering multiple years in varsity lacrosse. After graduating, he completed a post-graduate year at Kent School before matriculating to St. Lawrence University. He planned to continue playing lacrosse, but a torn ACL sidelined his athletic career and opened the door to new possibilities.

After college, Sam moved to San Francisco with friends and initially pursued jobs in finance and tech sales. While searching, he and his roommates turned a casual hobby, cooking, into a business—Presido Pesto. Though short-lived, the venture sparked Sam’s interest in entrepreneurship and sustainability. When early attempts to enter the clean energy field didn’t take off, Sam doubled down, enrolling in a sustainability bootcamp at Reykjavik University’s Iceland School of Energy.

When a spot unexpectedly opened in the university’s graduate program, he jumped at the chance.

Over the next two years, which included a two-month internship in London at Environmental Defense Fund Europe, Sam earned a master’s degree in sustainable energy science.

He returned to the U.S. to begin his career in renewable energy asset development, first with Ameresco in Boston, then with Lightstar Renewables. Today, Sam works in mergers and acquisitions, acquiring construction-ready renewable energy projects and guiding them through development.

The solar projects he oversees typically span 20–35 acres, generate 5–7 megawatts, and sell energy credits to a broad range of consumers—from residential users to industrial facilities.

Sam credits Millbrook with planting the seed for his passion. He recalls the influence of faculty members like Gordie MacKenzie ’79 and Dr. Sylvia Roberts, and he remains inspired by the school’s visible commitment to sustainability, including its seven-acre solar field that produces over 2 million kilowatt-hours of electricity each year. He also fondly remembers his community service work—first in the Strong Box with Del Shilkret and later as head of Fire Safety under MacKenzie.

Now living in Portland, Maine, Sam works remotely while making regular trips to Boston. He’s putting down roots with his wife, a fellow St. Lawrence alum whom he reconnected with years later, and their two-year-old son. He looks forward to returning to Millbrook this spring for his 20th reunion— bringing his journey full circle, grounded in the values that first sparked his sense of purpose.

Class Notes

Ken O’Friel chatted over Zoom with Millbrook’s boys lacrosse team before their playoff games last spring, sharing his own Millbrook and college (Bates) lacrosse experiences. Ken is currently the CEO of Toku, a global platform he co-founded in 2020 to manage employment, fiat, stablecoin payroll, and native token payroll. While he had been living abroad in Asia, he recently moved back to New York City with his wife, Dominika, who he met while living in Japan.

Class of 2013

Eleni (Hellmers) Bilalis tied the knot with her husband, Michael, at St. Nicholas church in the small Greek village of Vavili on the island of Chios last summer and had the most memorable time sharing their Greek heritage with family and friends. Michael is an optometrist, and Eleni is currently working as an Emergency Room nurse at a local hospital. They currently reside outside of New Orleans in Covington, Louisiana, with their two dogs, cat, and five chickens.

After two years working in gift entry in Millbrook’s Alumni Office, Elizabeth (Lowe) Fecsko took her interest in advancement work to Belmont Hill, an allboys independent school in Massachusetts, where she worked for over four years as a development associate running the Young and Recent Alumni Program. She is now working as associate director of major gifts for Boston College High School, focusing on the parent community. BC High is a highly selective Catholic school for 1,400 7th–12th grade boys and is currently in a $125 million campaign, Illuminating Excellence. Elizabeth has found working to increase financial aid, sponsorships, and endowment support at BC High both challenging and fulfilling.

Sydney Greenfield is living in Boston and has been working at a local public school for nearly two years; she loves it. Her role in the school allows her to get to know students from kindergarten through eighth grade, adding much versatility to her days. She has met kids from all different walks of life, and this has definitely shaped who she is as an

educator. She loves the ability to get to know kids throughout the school and that they can get to know her!

Class of 2014

Laura Mezzanotte ’14 graduated law school and passed the bar this past year! Now she is working as a lawyer for an animal welfare organization, inspired by her time working at the Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo.

Class of 2015

10th Reunion

Alan Feng is currently living in Seattle with his wife and working as a software engineer at Microsoft, where he has been for the past few years. He has found both personal and professional growth at Microsoft, which has prepared him to potentially work for a Chinese tech company or start a tech company of his own.

Matt Kricheli has taken his passion for ice hockey, photography, and videography to

Class of 2015

Gianna Muscari was only at Millbrook interviewing prospective students for a short year before her love of lacrosse lured her to new adventures. While becoming the first full-time head coach at Division II Felician University in New Jersey, Gianna has also joined the Italian National Development Team, training with Team Italy throughout the year. Always in search of opportunities to play, she recently enjoyed playing men’s box lacrosse as a member of the Westrock Warhogs in the NABLL. She also played in the World Lacrosse Super Sixes tournament in December in Hong Kong. Representing Team Global, she played alongside professionals, including Megan Kinna and Erin Bakes, and some of the best international players. Gianna and Team Global won tournament gold! When not traveling the world and playing lacrosse, Gianna is living in Rutherford, New Jersey, with her dog, Walter.

the next level. After attending Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, he worked as a content producer for teams that included the Florida Panthers, the Utica Comets, and the Utah Jazz. Over the past six years, he has also followed his passion for music and photography, freelancing and touring with concerts around the country. Now, as creators of live sports look to offer a more immersive experience, Matt is working with FloSports, a subscription-based sports streaming service, to bring immersive content to fans. At the 2025 AHL All-Star Classic at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California, Matt and his FloSports colleagues placed the new Ray-Ban Meta glasses on players during the Skills Competition and other events to capture unique sights and sounds from the ice and generate buzz. While he creates engaging content regularly for FloSports hockey group, in his free time he also gets out on the golf course to work on his game. Matt lives with his girlfriend and their dog in Austin, Texas.

Class of 2016

After Millbrook, Daniel Correia attended Quinnipiac University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in finance; he went on to complete his master’s in accounting at Fordham University. Daniel has been living in New York and has had the opportunity to work at a few different public accounting firms in transaction advisory. His work has primarily focused on mergers and acquisitions, providing financial due diligence services to private equity firms and strategic buyers. Through this experience, he has developed a strong background in financial analysis, deal structuring, and evaluating business performance. Most recently, Daniel achieved a major milestone by passing all four sections of the CPA exam. It’s been a rewarding journey, and he’s excited to continue growing in the field.

Class of 2016

Massimo Luciani represented team Canada at the world deaf hockey championships in Vancouver from May 12–17.

Class of 2017

Will Conte graduated from Princeton in 2021 and was working in investment banking in New York City before applying to Stanford Business School, where he is now pursuing his MBA. His sights are set on working with a private equity firm upon graduation. He is also currently working with San Francisco’s new mayor, playing an active role in shaping policy, which is especially meaningful to him given his appreciation for San Francisco.

Class of 2018

Sam Besca, a proud alum, first discovered her love for visual storytelling through photography during her time in Ms. MacWright’s Alternative Processes class. Though she initially pursued a different path, earning a degree in political science from Hamilton College—where she graduated summa cum laude, was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, and became a member of Pi Sigma Alpha—her passion for the arts ultimately led her to filmmaking. Now, she is making waves in the film industry with her latest project, To the Floor. Currently in post-production, the film has already gained notable recognition, including being featured on ARRI’s official Instagram, a prestigious nod from one of the most respected names in cinematography.

As the team works toward completing the film, it is also fundraising for festival submissions to bring To the Floor to a wider audience on the festival circuit. Any support—whether through contributions or sharing the project—would be invaluable in helping take this next step. To stay updated on the film’s progress or to support the fundraising efforts, visit https://tothefloorfilm.com or follow on Instagram at @tothefloor.film and @bamsesca.

Her journey from photography at Millbrook to political science at Hamilton and ultimately to filmmaking is a testament to the power of following creative instincts, even when the path isn’t linear. With To the Floor nearing completion, she is excited to share her work and continue pushing boundaries in the industry.

• Will Conte ’17 with Keith Del Valle

Class of 2018

Dawson Davis recently married Josie Edmiston, having enjoyed their time together at the University of Michigan despite the COVID years. They met when Davis walked on to the cheer team his sophomore year. Josie majored in applied exercise science and is currently a personal trainer in Ann Arbor. They love to travel and have enjoyed some lovely vacations in the past few years, both as a couple and with their families. Most recently they traveled to Belize, Kenya, and Albania.

Just after the pandemic hit, Davis began working on SARS-CoV-2 antibody research at the university, and he has been with this research team ever since, contributing data to the NIH to aid in the comparative efficacy reviews of the initial vaccine offerings and the categorization of emergent variants. He and his team are now transitioning their focus to antibody behavior in adolescent influenza exposures as COVID cases wane.

Davis is hard at work on a master’s degree in healthcare leadership at Brown in an executive format. This takes him to Providence, Rhode Island, one week a semester; otherwise, he is at home in Ypsilanti, Michigan, with Josie and their dog, Winnie. Dawson’s goal is to transition into the leadership side of either research or healthcare administration.

Class of 2019

Suwaibatu Mohammed graduated from James Madison University in the spring of 2024 with a degree in health sciences, following a stellar career leading her soccer team to a bid in the NCAA Championship. In her final year, she earned All-Sun Belt First Team and All-Southeast Region Second Team honors. In October of 2024, she joined the Wadi Degla Football Club of the Egyptian Premier League, where she is currently playing professionally.

She has found that moving to a country like Egypt, where the language barrier can be nerve-racking, has been an eye-opening and valuable experience that she’s grateful to have pursued. Navigating this new world, where most speak Arabic, has presented challenges. Simple tasks like ordering food or asking for directions are sometimes transformed into funny guessing games.

She also quickly learned that greeting people here often involves a warm handshake and heartfelt inquiries about family, which can feel overwhelming at first. Whether on or off the field, each miscommunication or misunderstanding has pushed her to grow and adapt.

Visiting ancient sites like the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx was awe-inspiring, but she also realized that these wonders come with their own set of challenges—navigating the crowds, bargaining for souvenirs, and translating local customs. However, she has made friendships that transcend language barriers. Misunderstandings have led to laughter and connection, often in unexpected ways.

Overall, this journey has taught her resilience and the value of stepping outside her comfort zone. Every day in Egypt is an adventure filled with lessons, and she is embracing every moment.

Class of 2018

Jon Conahan wrote a feature for Sports Illustrated titled “Legendary Davidson Coach Bob McKillop Discusses NIL, Stephen Curry, and Much More,” connecting McKillop to Millbrook through his former staffer and Millbrook Boys Varsity Basketball Head Coach Billy Thom. “Coach had a hands-on approach in everything he did—hyper prepared, like any fantastic teacher,” Thom said of his former boss, per Conahan. “He’d jump in practices, have his assistants demo things with him. He is a master teacher in every way.”

Sam Iacavazzi completed his three-month software engineering apprenticeship with Home Depot and has been offered a full-time role as a software engineer on the Identity & Security team. His code is running on devices whenever someone logs into the Home Depot website. He is very grateful to have had the opportunity to demonstrate his skills and looks forward to contributing in his new role.

Class of 2020 5th Reunion

Sam Jones is a recent graduate of Texas Christian University’s Neeley School of Business where he studied marketing. As a creative yet methodical problem solver, he thrives in leveraging data analytics and research to drive business performance and strategic decision-making. Having worked in startups, academia, and volunteer settings, Sam is a fast learner who can adapt quickly and pivot between tasks with ease. He credits his time at Millbrook for teaching him not to be afraid to ask questions, help others, and leave every situation better than he found it.

After his time at TCU, Sam landed a sales position at Perry Weather, the fastest growing weather monitoring and weather safety company in the nation. Sam now calls on schools like his alma mater who need a weather safety platform to protect students, meet local safety guidelines, and simplify operations. Ultimately, Sam’s motivation to help others and his problem-solving mindset prove to be a perfect pairing with Perry. Sam gives special thanks to all the staff and teachers that gave him wisdom

Class of 2020

Tommy Burke signed with the Las Vegas Desert Dogs of the National Lacrosse League. “I’m pumped to fulfill my lifelong dream of being a pro athlete,” Burke said. “I’m grateful to everyone who has helped me on this journey from Millbrook to Vermont to Ohio State and Edge Lacrosse. I hope I can serve as an example to younger kids to pursue their dreams and not let limits define them!”

and guidance at Millbrook so that he could achieve his professional and personal goals.

Class of 2023

Mike Siano is loving his time at St. Lawrence University, where he is currently the starting shortstop for the baseball team. Postgraduation, he is considering a career in coaching baseball or law enforcement. In the near term, he is working on organizing

Class of 2020

David Ciancio played ice hockey for St. Michael’s, and in his final collegiate hockey game, he scored two goals and had an assist to lead the team to a 5–1 victory and their first NE10 championship since 2009. Because of his performance, David was named the tournament’s most valuable player. After years of coming close, and numerous athletic and academic awards, this game was the perfect ending to Ciancio’s college hockey career.

Class of 2021

Nikki Bessinger played in her 100th game for the Sacred Heart University women’s ice hockey team. The senior forward from Wappingers Falls, New York, finished her Pioneers career with a New England Women’s Hockey Alliance (NEWHA) championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance.

a young alums vs. current students baseball game at Millbrook.

Class of 2024

Pedro Leon began his college baseball career on a tear, giving up no runs, striking out seven, and picking up two saves in his first three games as a relief pitcher for the Holy Cross baseball team. His first NCAA appearance was a 1.2-inning save in a 4–2 win over then No. 18 Auburn University.

Class of 2020

Justinas Norkus became the first foreign player on the Italian Serie C Svila Perugia Basket roster. The Lithuanian baller immediately became a key scorer for the team. “I didn’t know what to expect coming here to Perugia,” he said in an interview with Umbria 24. “As soon as I arrived, I immediately realized that the young average age of the team isn’t important: what really matters, for me, is the atmosphere on and off the court, the relationships and bonds you create within the team. Here at Perugia Basket, all of this works: we have a great group.”

Class of 2021

Carina Mancini completed undergraduate degree in 3.5 years at Saint Anselm College and is now pursuing a master’s degree in public policy.

Photo by St. Michael’s

Class of 2021

Jake Percival was named Hockey East Player of the Month in October. A junior forward for the University of Connecticut men’s hockey team, Percival earned the honor by scoring eight points on six goals (two shorthanded) and two assists.

Class of 2021

Jeannie Wallner tallied her 100th career point as a member of the Long Island University women’s ice hockey team. Wallner helped lead the Sharks to their third-straight NEWHA regular season title, and she earned First-Team All-NEWHA honors for the third consecutive year.

Class of 2023

In his first year at Air Force, Kyle Marshall was named Mountain West Conference men’s basketball Freshman of the Week twice within a month. He was the first Air Force freshman to win the award since the 2022–2023 season.

Class of 2024

Shaye Jasiel had a great first year playing defense on the SUNY Oswego women’s hockey team and contributing to a recordbreaking season for the women’s team as SUNYAC champions. The freshman zoology major’s highlights included scoring a buzzerbeater against SUNY Canton for her first NCAA goal.

Class of 2022

Jo’el Emanuel put together a solid junior season for the Fairleigh Dickinson University men’s basketball team, earning several Play of the Week honors for his high-flying style of play—which has also landed him on ESPN highlight reels multiple times in his career.

Class of 2024

Lila Pannacciulli is committed to play ice hockey at the University of Vermont. Lila played for the Mustangs for three years before transferring to play 19U AAA hockey at Lovell Academy.

Multiple Classes

Jeff Ryan ’82 has enjoyed a long career organizing professional tennis events, which led him to move to North Carolina and settle in WinstonSalem. After years traveling the world to run tennis tournaments, he is happy to be settled in one place and coordinating the famous WinstonSalem Classic tennis event. Jeff shared good news from his daughter, Meg, Millbrook Class of 2012, who is working in the front office for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a position that earned her a Super Bowl ring! At a luncheon with Keith Del Valle from Millbrook’s Advancement Office, Jeff connected with Andrej Hadzima ’23, who is at Wake Forest University and shares a love of tennis. Andrej is working in data analytics for the Wake Forest baseball team and continuing to explore additional opportunities in sports analytics and media.

J’nelle Agee ’06 chaired the annual gala of the Metro-Manhattan (NY) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, helping to raise more than $200,000 for the Harlem community. Millbrook Head of School Jonathan Downs ‘98 and DEIB Director Patrice King attended the gala as J’nelle’s guests.

Jeong-hwan Roh ’07, Jin Soo Han ’08, Diana Hwang ’11, and Ashlyn Kang ’13 joined us at a Millbrook reception in Korea alongside current and prospective families. The evening was a fantastic opportunity to connect with alumni, hear about their careers, and introduce Millbrook to prospective families through their experiences.

Jeong-hwan works in the tech software space and continues to maintain strong connections with his Millbrook classmates from Korea. He is now a proud parent!

Jin Soo earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Chicago and then his PhD in applied economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He is currently an assistant professor at KAIST College of Business, one of Korea’s top business schools. In addition to teaching, he is also involved in interviewing prospective University of Pennsylvania students in Korea.

Ashlyn graduated from Johns Hopkins University in 2016 and was most recently at Boston Consulting Group as a senior associate consultant. In December, she moved to GS Holdings as a manager on the Future Business Team, looking at strategic M&A and LP investment opportunities under the company’s corporate umbrella.

Diana earned her bachelor’s degree in art history at Smith College and went on to earn her master’s degree in art business from Sotheby’s Institute of Art. She returned to Korea in 2018 and is currently the director of sales and marketing at Artifacts in Seoul.

In January, an NCAA DIII matchup between the Vassar College and Skidmore College men’s basketball teams featured a trio of Millbrook alumni. Charlie Weisberg ’21 and Ethan Madeiros ’23 took the court for the Skidmore Thoroughbreds, while Nathan Denham ’22 suited up for the Vassar Brewers. The former Mustang teammates caught up with coaches and players from the 2024–2025 Millbrook boys varsity basketball squad.

In March, Sydney Greenfield ’13, Elizabeth (Lowe) Fecsko ’13, and Tate Lavitt ’10 joined two members of Millbrook’s Communications Office, Michelle Blayney and Alex Pearson, for lunch at The Abbey in Brookline, Massachusetts.

Multiple Classes Books

A gregarious contingent of Millbrook alums who are now attending St. Lawrence University gathered for dinner in early March. Sam Smith ’21 is gearing up for lacrosse season and preparing to graduate in May. Artemis Köprülü ’21 recently completed an internship at a financial planning firm with the goal of pursuing a career in financial services in Europe. In addition to his focus on schoolwork, Artemis is active in his fraternity. Johnny Rigolino ’23 is majoring in accounting and finance and loves playing football for St. Lawrence, and Justin Galarza ’23 is studying foreign relations and has built a strong social network on campus. JD Whiting ’23, who is also at St. Lawrence, could not join in dinner as he works with the women’s ice hockey team, which was preparing for the ECAC tournament semifinal game against Colgate.

Siblings Bud Fisher ’20 and Phebe Fisher ’23 are both playing tennis for Trinity College.

Current college players Jake Percival ’21 (University of Connecticut) and Niko Rexine ’21 (Colgate) met up with their former coach, Vinnie Sorriento ’98, in the fall. UConn and Colgate matched up on the ice on October 4 in Storrs, Connecticut. Jake picked up the first goal of the game, and UConn went on to win 4-2.

Dr. Julian Strauss ’54 recently published a book entitled Home Farm, The Love of Place in a Changing World, which is now available for purchase in Millbrook’s Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo. It is a personal study on agricultural history in the area around Millbrook since the Civil War, 1867 to the present. He also continues to create sweet maple syrup!

Lloyd Devereux Richards ’67 has written his third thriller, The Runner, published by HarperCollins and available this May at bookstores everywhere.

Patrick Curry ’69 has published Art and Enchantment, which addresses the experience of wonder rising from an encounter with art. Concentrating on painting, music, and fiction, it explores the conditions and dynamics of that experience. The intention is to better understand and honor it as an important (but neglected) part of our lives.

Emily (Draper) Weinberg ’88 of Westminster, Vermont, recently published The Feather of Truth, An Artist’s Journey in Ancient Egypt. It’s a middlegrade historical novel set in New Kingdom Egypt for ages 9-15. It is a fast-paced adventure filled with historical detail, friendship, exotic scenery, and action. You can read more about it at www.thefeatheroftruthnovel.com.

Cate Sinclair ’20 recently published a children’s book, The Tale of the Forbidden Stories: A Children’s Book About Book Banning, in April 2024 as part of her senior capstone project at Endicott College. The 73-page book for ages 4+ is available through Amazon.

Engagements

Weddings

Eliza Cantlay ’03 married Derrick Freeman on September 28, 2024, in Kingsville, Missouri. They were married in a private ceremony with their immediate families at Kansas City’s botanical gardens. They held a sustainable wedding, and the entire weekend yielded half a small trash bag. Eliza gave props to Millbrook for inspiring her to live a sustainable life every day!

Carly McWilliams ’05 married Jason Madigan on July 20, 2024, in the Flagler Memorial Chapel at Millbrook School. Carly’s parents, longtime Millbrook faculty Rick and Cindy McWilliams, and her brother, Trevor ’01, were happy to be back on campus for this special day. Millbrook friends who came to celebrate included Amanda (Horne) Halloran ‘05, Sarah (Podmaniczky) McGonigle ‘04, Bob ’65 and Ann Anthony, Larry Atlas and Ann Matthews, Jody and Kevin Soja, and Craig Seward ‘79 (uncle). Rev. Cam Hardy led the ceremony, and Maya Myers ‘96 was the wedding photographer.

Storey Schifter ’13 was engaged on May 10, 2024, to Hung Nguyen at Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos Islands. Wedding details are in the works!

Emma Feitelson ’13 is engaged to John McCafferey, and they will be married in the Flagler Memorial Chapel at Millbrook on June 14, 2025.

• Emma with mom, Kathy Havard, and Millbrook friends, from left to right, at a recent bridal shower: Adelaide Armah ’19, Megan Giannetto, Megan Ahern ’13, Rev. Cam Hardy, and Lena Hardy ’13

• Emma and John at Dillon Reservoir in Colorado

Weddings

Millbrook alums who were there to celebrate with Lacy and Evan included Lulu (Carter) Ryan ’07, Eliot (Hubbell) Jeffers ’07, Lauren Roxborough ’07, Emily (Hottensen) Bostwick ’06, Charlotte Pfeffer ’07, and Lacy’s brother, Conor Kelly ’04. Also celebrating were Millbrook faculty Drew and Linda Casertano and Brad Hart (Lacy’s godfather).

Brother-in-law Jamie Cushing, sister Mimi Anthony Cushing ’08, Geoffrey and Sarah, mom and dad Ann and Bob Anthony ’65, Rachel Urban, and brother Arthur Anthony ’07

Byron Lynn ’09 married Lindsay Wilken in Martha’s Vineyard on September 14, 2024. His sister, Louise Lynn ’17, captained their getaway boat.

Sarah Anthony ’12 married Geoffrey Davis on February 22, 2025, in a lovely ceremony at 5:30 in the evening at the Colony Club in New York City.

Bridesmaids and Millbrook friends, Eliza (Chapman) Pecchia ’12, Ali (Holbrook) Smith ’12, Sarah, Mimi, and Eleanor Sednaoui ’13

Lacy Kelly ’07 married Evan Tonkel in Weekapaug, Rhode Island, at Shelter Harbor Golf Club on October 5, 2024. Evan is originally from Sudbury, MA, and graduated from Syracuse University. Now, he and Lacy live in Los Angeles in Venice Beach with their black Labrador, Hank.

Weddings

Lauren Marino ’12 married Jordan Le Frois in Savannah, Georgia, at the Hotel Bardo. The ceremony was held on Saturday, June 1, 2024, and there were many Millbrook friends in attendance to celebrate, including Sam Richards ’11, Elena Kikis ’12, Storey Schifter ’13, Eva Kudenholdt ’13, Gabe Fekete ’13, and Jaime McCook ’12.

Hellmers ’13 married Michael Bilalis on July 21, 2024, in a traditional Greek Orthodox ceremony on the Greek island of Chios last summer. In attendance was Eleni’s dear friend and fellow Millbrook alum, Maddie Panzer ’14

Eliza Chapman ’12 and Craig Pecchia ’00 were married in the Flagler Memorial Chapel at Millbrook School on June 29, 2024.

Eleni

Weddings

Alix Creel ’14 married Brando Brandolini d’Adda in Paris, France, at St. Clotilde Church in the 7th arrondissement on October 12, 2024. Olivia Dolan ’13 was Alix’s maid of honor, and Olivia’s father, John Dolan, was one of the wedding photographers! His photos were included in beautiful coverage of the wedding in Vogue. Other Millbrook friends who joined in the celebration included Duncan Harvey ’14, Julia May, ’15, Alden Woolford ’14, Eleanor Sednaoui ’13, Mansell Ambrose ’14, and Sarah (Anthony) Davis ’12.

Faculty News

Devandria Bernard and Patrick Stewart met at Millbrook School as faculty in 2018. They married on March 15, 2025, at Cliff House Maine in Cape Neddick. They were joined by family, friends, and several other Millbrook faculty, former and current.

Dawson Davis ’18 married Josie Edmiston in La Jolla, CA, on September 28, 2024. Classmate Chris Wilkins was there to celebrate with the happy couple.

Photo by John Dolan P’13, ’15, ’17

Births

and

She joins brother Abe and sister

Teddy Karatz ’96

his wife, Heather, welcomed their third child, Ruby Glenne on January 7, 2025.

Jojo!

J’nelle Agee ’06 and her husband, Arthur, welcomed their daughter, Jaxson Jnelle Lee Butler, on March 6, 2025. Baby Jaxson weighed 6 lbs., 12 oz., and measured 20” long.

Steven Lewis ’04 and Nell (Burdis) Lewis ’10 welcomed daughter Charlotte Elinor Lewis on September 1, 2024. Now a family of four with Charlotte and their oldest, Hudson (9), they live in Verbank, New York, just outside of Millbrook.

Jonathan Lopez ’02 and his wife, Alexa, welcomed their second child, Rio, on April 29, 2025. Rio joins his sister, Isla.

Margaret Pennoyer ’06 and wife, Catie, welcomed baby Russell Samuelson Pennoyer on June 9, 2024.

Births

Brooks Crossman ’09 and his wife, Alexandra, welcomed baby Camilla Lawrence Benatar Lütgerath on April 6, 2024—her sister’s third birthday!

Kalli (Havens) Ey ’09 and her husband, John, recently welcomed the birth of their son, John Sullivan Ey, born August 26, 2024.

Maren Rhodin ’07 and her husband, Wil Nelp, welcomed Simone Rhodin Nelp, on August 14, 2024. Maren and her family are currently living on Bainbridge Island in Washington.

Emma (Silvershein) Lyons ’10 and her husband, Andrew, welcomed Lucille Jane Lyons on August 24, 2024.

Peter Smith ’06 and his wife, Katy, welcomed their son, Thomas William Smith, on January 12, 2025. Baby Thomas joins three-yearold sister Emily.

Will Gray ’07 and his wife, Tricia, welcomed their daughter, Georgia Gray, on February 25, 2025. She weighed 9 lbs., 5 oz.

Births

and

Marilyn (Dedrick) Buvinow ’13 and Brad Buvinow ’13 welcomed their son, Charlie, on January 2, 2025. He weighed 7 lbs., 2 oz.

Billy Munck ’12 and his wife, Alida, welcomed their first baby girl, Briar Millie, on July 26, 2024.

Ken O’Friel ’12 and his wife, Dominika Stobiecka, welcomed their baby boy, Alexander Mark O’Friel, on March 21, 2025.

Elizabeth (Lowe) Fecsko ’13 and her husband, Joseph, welcomed a little girl, Emerson ‘Emmie’ Eloise, on July 9, 2024.

Victoria (Gray) Martin ’11 and her husband, Jonathan, welcomed their son, JJ, on February 26, 2025. He weighed 7lbs., 8 oz., and measured 19.5”.

Zoe (Wilson) Reinman ’12, and her husband, John, welcomed their second child, Charlotte Cooke Reinman, on August 23, 2024. Charlotte joins big sister Thayer Rose.

Ali (Holbrook) Smith ’12

her husband, Trey, welcomed Clara Kimberly Smith on August 20, 2024. Clara joins big sister Alice.

In Memoriam

We offer our most heartfelt condolences to the families of all Millbrook alumni, parents, past parents, faculty, and friends who have passed away recently.

ALUMNI

1943

Vernon L. Pack passed away on January 18, 2025, at the age of 99. Born in Washington, D.C., he obtained a bachelor’s degree from Otterbein College in 1950 and a master’s in education from Ohio State University in 1958. Vernon served as a Navy pharmacist’s mate 2/C during World War II.

Vernon was a retired educator and baseball/ softball coach and the author of several mini books and dozens of articles on Ohio topics. He served as an officer and/or trustee in several organizations, including the Church of the Master United Methodist, the American Legion, multiple historical societies, the Rotary Club, Friends of the National Education Association, and many more. Vernon was especially known for his constant smile, sense of humor, distinctive voice, infectious laugh, a kidding spirit, organizational skills, and philanthropy. Each week he would read to an adult day care group—this brought him constant joy.

1953

Peter Robinson, of Simsbury, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, at the age of 90. Raised in Greenwich, Connecticut, he continued his education at Middlebury College after graduating from Millbrook. Peter received his pilot’s license while at Middlebury. He finished his

education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, setting the stage for a distinguished and fulfilling career in aviation. While living in Washington, D.C., Peter met Sandra Peabody on a blind date. Peter and Sandra were married in Greenwich and welcomed a daughter, Whitney, and a son, Timothy, before moving to Farmington, where they lived with Peter’s stepson, Walker Bagley.

An avid outdoorsman, Peter was an accomplished equestrian in his youth and loved to ski, hunt, fish, golf, and chronicle life’s adventures through photography. His adventurous spirit extended to the seas, where he was an avid sailor who loved to explore the New England coast. He will be remembered for his warmth, adventurous spirit, and love for his family and friends. His adventurous spirit and enthusiasm for life will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

1962

Douglas Moore passed away on June 3, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts.

After graduating from Millbrook, Doug attended Davidson College in North Carolina and Auburn University in Alabama, where he earned his PhD in nuclear physics.  He went on to own and operate Accelerator Systems in Atkinson, New Hampshire, designing and building custom electronics for the ion implantation industry. He was a practicing 7th Degree Black Belt in Uechi-Ryu Karate Do, studying with Buzz

Durkin’s Karate School. He loved sailing his sunfish, working on a vast collection of projects, and, most of all, being “Gaga” to his grandchildren, George and River.

Doug is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Kyoko Seki Moore; his children, Eleanor Moore and James Moore ’02, his daughter-in-law, Emma Byrne Levenson, MD; his 2 grandchildren, River and George; and his two sisters, Eleanor and Joan.

1965

Charles Ingersoll, a lifelong Chestnut Hill area resident and former executive vice president and director of The Rittenhouse Trust Company (now The Haverford Trust Company), died January 15, 2025, at Chestnut Hill Hospital after a short illness. Charles was a direct descendant of Jared Ingersoll, a signer of the United States Constitution.

After attending Chestnut Hill Academy, Mr. Ingersoll came to Millbrook and was president of his class and of the Student Council. He went on to graduate from the University of Pennsylvania in 1969, where he was president of Zeta Psi Fraternity. He began his professional career in 1970 with the Trust Department of the Fidelity Bank (now Wells Fargo). In 1979 he moved to Philadelphia National Bank, where he headed up the Personal Financial Planning Department and then joined The Rittenhouse Trust Company, where he worked as an executive vice president and director until his retirement in 2017.

Throughout his life, Charles maintained deep involvement in community organizations and nonprofits. He served as a board member and past president of Woodmere Art Museum, board member and co-vice chair of Morris Arboretum, and trustee of Morris Animal Refuge, among others. His children remember him as a devoted father who balanced his professional life with rich personal interests.

1971

John Dempsey Jr. passed away on October 18, 2024, after a valiant battle with Lew Body Dementia. He is survived by his beloved wife Jeannie, his loving son John Gerard, and his sisters and brother: Diane (Charlie), Daniel (Joanne), Abigail (Bob), and Caroline.

John, who had a deep-rooted connection to Great River, New York, attended Millbrook School, then Stony Brook university, and finally Dowling College in Oakdale, NY, where he graduated magna cum laude.

John worked for David Lerner Associates for 43 years, rising to president of the company. He was an avid reader and NY Times crossword puzzle fan. His hobbies also included boating and gardening. He most loved spending time with his wife and son and his extended beloved family. His generosity, like the love he had for his entire family and close friends, knew no bounds.

1972

P. Enis Moran enjoyed a well-rounded four years at Millbrook School as a member of the Class of 1972. He was a prolific athlete, giving his all in every sport he played and leading the soccer team in points as a VIth former. His classmate, Alexander Podmaniczky ’72, recalls spending countless hours in his dorm room listening

to music, playing guitar, and interacting with many friends. He also loved cars, driving an Austin America as a Millbrook student, and then cherishing multiple BMW models in college and beyond.

An upstate New York resident, Enis worked to find missing dogs in Dutchess County, regularly sending alerts to his friends in the area. “He always seemed to give more than he got,” said Podmaniczky. “I will miss having him as part of our long-shared history.”

Ned Rousmaniere passed away on July 21, 2024, the day before his 70th birthday. Izzy and Kate were with him. Ellie, Mattie, Tony, and Greg were just downstairs. The final few days were made of many painful moments as Ned’s body was simultaneously ready and reluctant to let go. Those days were also made of beauty, as the family sang together, read poems, felt the sunlight, and took turns holding onto Ned. He took his last breath in a room full of orange and yellow flowers gathered by his friends.

Ned’s family and friends miss him but are also relieved that he is finally resting after many months of illness. They feel grateful for the constellation of people present in the household to support Ned’s dying process.

2002

Colin Mahon, age 40, of Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, passed away on October 8, 2024. Born in Kingston, New York, he was the son of John and Elizabeth Mahon (nee Norberg). Colin brought love and joy to everyone around him. He touched so many lives across the country from Rhinebeck, NY, where he grew up, to Millbrook School, Villanova University, Brooklyn, Red Hook Golf Club, Rolling Green Golf Club, and his community in Pennsylvania. He was an avid golfer, coach to his children, and the most generous friend to everyone around him.

Colin was the beloved husband of Samantha Mahon (nee Jung); loving father of Axel Albert Mahon, Otis Patrick Mahon, and Willa Rose Mahon; caring brother of Patrick Mahon and Jessica Dietrick; and loving brother-in-law and uncle. Colin is also survived by his parents, John and Elizabeth Mahon, and his in-laws, Gary and Roberta Jung. Colin will be missed dearly by all those who were blessed to know and love him.

PAST FACULTY

Rev. Edward “Ted” Anderson passed away on February 18, 2025. After a year at Yale University, Ted joined the Army and served in the Korean War. He returned to Yale to complete his bachelor’s degree in English and then went on to teach high school English for many years. He came to Millbrook School shortly after earning his graduate degree from Havard. While teaching, he spent two summers in Israel on archaeological digs and pursued a Master of Divinity degree at Yale Divinity School to become a school chaplain. After marrying his wife, Gretchen, Ted moved his family to Nantucket in 1971, where they raised three children: Kathy, Candee, and Roger. Ted became the minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church in 1972 and served there until he retired on January 1, 2000. Known for his thought-provoking, entertaining, and often hilarious sermons, he was a central member of the Nantucket community for decades.

Charles Genovese, former faculty member and resident of Marietta, Georgia, passed away peacefully April 28, 2025. He was 92.

Charles was a member of Millbrook’s English faculty from 1958 until 1961, a period during which he met and married his beloved, Patricia Sgrosso. After their summer 1961 wedding, Charles and Patricia moved to Kent, Connecticut, where he had accepted a teaching position at Kent School and had a lengthy career as a much-admired and respected faculty member.

Charles was a graduate of Brown University in 1954, served in the Army with occupation forces in Germany, and then earned his master’s degree in English from Boston University in 1958.

David Jon Greenwood passed away December 23, 2024, at home in Millbrook, New York. He was born July 9, 1944, in Putnam County, New York, and grew up in Carmel, the youngest of three boys. David pursued a lifelong interest in the visual and performing arts. He earned his bachelor’s degree in art education at SUNY Buffalo, which included a semester abroad studying art history in Siena, Italy. He earned his master’s degree and supervisory accreditation at SUNY New Paltz, which in 1982 named him an outstanding alumnus.

He combined his love of history and art by becoming a teacher of art and advanced placement art history, joining the Carmel Central School District in Putnam County in 1967. In 1974 he was named district supervisor of art, with responsibility for the entire K-12 arts program, a position he held until retiring from Carmel in 2004.

He then taught Art History and Aesthetics part time for another seven years at Millbrook School. David was also active in local organizations, including the Putnam County Arts Council and the Putnam and Dutchess counties’ landmarks preservation societies. He was the historian for the Village of Millbrook, Town of Washington, and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Lithgow, and he served in the Dutchess County Historical Society. David and his wife, Nan, were also active members of Millbrook Rotary. David was predeceased by his parents and brothers. He is survived by Nan and sons Calder ’97 and Wixon ’96 Greenwood, daughter-in-law Sibyl (Fenwick) Greenwood ’96, grandson Augustus, nephews Shawn and Harold, and niece Lisle.

Nancy Keller-Coffey passed away on November 29, 2024, at home, surrounded by her loving family.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Nancy’s deepest-held values, including a commitment to creating a fair and just world, were inspired by her parents. She would pursue these causes throughout her life, dedicating herself to educating and serving others. After earning her bachelor’s degree in East Asian Studies from Wesleyan University, Nancy served in the Peace Corps in Thailand and then in 1986 joined the faculty at Oakwood Friends School, where she wore many hats over nearly two decades. While at Oakwood, Nancy also earned her master’s degree at SUNY New Paltz and was an adjunct professor there, teaching an early course on diversity and gender from 1994-2007.

Nancy joined the faculty at Millbrook School in 2005, where she made an indelible impact in the College Counseling Office and

served as its director from 2010-2018. Every student who completed college applications during her tenure benefited from her collaborative, empowering, and resourceful approach to a complex process. Driven by a desire to connect daily and more deeply with students, she returned to the classroom at Millbrook in 2018, teaching literature and writing with her signature passion and insight until she was diagnosed with brain cancer in the fall of 2022.

Her life of service to others extended well beyond independent school classrooms. Following a service trip to Chengdu, China, with The George School, Nancy was inspired to organize and lead service trips for Millbrook students to Ghana, India, and Cambodia. Because of her leadership, these experiences, focused on community engagement and cultural enrichment, were accessible, inclusive, and life-changing.

Nancy’s own life was defined by kindness, humor, and positivity—she was a light-filled presence. As a deeply loving and supportive mother, she was the heartbeat of her family and the glue that held her extended relatives together. Her natural talent for building community allowed her to foster deep, meaningful connections, whether with lifelong friends and colleagues or new acquaintances she met under the briefest circumstances. Her determination and optimism remained unshaken, inspiring all who knew her, even as she navigated illness with determination and dignity. In remembering Nancy in the coming days and years, friends and family will no doubt walk in her footsteps to be nice, spread kindness, and find ways to make a positive difference in the world.

Remaining to cherish Nancy’s memory are her husband (Rick), children ( Emily ’14 and Zack ’13), brother (David Keller) and his family, cousins, and countless friends.

RECOGNIZING OUR VETERANS

Millbrook alums Kari-Jo (Coll) Parisi ’78 and Seth Morton ’61 are leading the charge in cataloging Millbrook alums who have served their country. Kari-Jo and Seth are both U.S. Army veterans and worked closely with Robert Anthony ’65 to compile a complete list of Millbrook veterans.

To this end, we invite you to complete the Military Service Update form at www.millbrook.org/connect. Our goal is to share the information we have gathered and honor our Millbrook alums in an upcoming Millbrook publication. Questions? Please email: alumni@millbrook.org.

Millbrook is a one-of-a-kind place with small classes, inspiring teachers, and a close-knit community with relationships rooted in kindness and integrity.

Your gift to the Annual Fund keeps Millbrook kind, curious, and courageous.

EVERY GIFT COUNTS. EVERY STUDENT BENEFITS.

Thank you for believing in the value of a Millbrook education!

Our Annual Fund runs from July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026. Please visit www.millbrook.org/give to support this year’s fund.