Acorn - Winter 2024 by North Shore Country Day

North Shore Country Day · Winter 2024

HARD WORK PAYS OFF. Congratulations to our Boys Soccer 2023 IHSA Class 1A State Champions

in this issue

a c o r n · Winter 2024

features 4 The Future is Now: How Artificial Intelligence is Reshaping Teaching and Learning 10 Performing Arts Thriving, Evolving 12 Alumni Profile: Saachi Shah ’09

depa r t men t s

WINTER 2024 The Acorn is published by the Marketing and Communications Department of North Shore Country Day for alumni, parents, grandparents and friends. Its goal is to connect our school community, celebrate recent accomplishments and capture the essence of life and learning at NSCD.

North Shore Country Day

HEAD’S LETTER

PA R E N T S ’ A S S O C I AT I O N

ACADEMICS

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

DISTINGUISHED GUESTS

EVENTS

FA C U LT Y

GIVING

C A M PA I G N U P D AT E

VISUAL ART

PERFORMING ARTS

AT H L E T I C S

P H O T O S F R O M O U R PA S T

ALUMNI CONNECTIONS

S AV E T H E D AT E S

CLASS NOTES

ALUMNI REFLECTION

Tom Flemma Head of School Gia Anayas Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications ganayas@nscds.org Christine Wachter Associate Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications, Acorn Editor cwachter@nscds.org

310 Green Bay Road

Jonathan Gibby

Winnetka, Illinois 60093 847.446.0674

Digital Content Manager jgibby@nscds.org Molly Ingram McDowell ’80

Director of Development mmcdowell@ nscds.org

Tracie Frederick

Senior Associate Director of Development tfrederick@ nscds.org Ashleigh Palmer Weathers ’04

Development Associate— Major Gifts and Alumni Relations aweathers@ nscds.org Photographers Jonathan Gibby Steve Handwerker Joel Lerner George Pfoertner Ryan Rayburn Writers Christine Wachter Kathy Routliffe

Margaret Ringia Hart Design, margaretringiahart.com Graphic Arts Studio Printing, www.gasink.net

On the front cover Jenna Loise and Jared Branahl Photo by Jonathan Gibby and Trafton O’Brien ’24 On the back cover If you know more about this photo or any of the other archival photos in this issue, please call Archivist Kenleigh Howard at 847.881.8844 or send an email to khoward@nscds.org.

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h e a d’s l e t t e r

READY FOR THE CHALLENGE

Our task is not to fear or avoid that technology, but to understand it—what it is, how it works, how to harness it. I’m just old enough to remember what it was like to teach when the World Wide Web became a thing, back when Napster and Netscape blazed through my new 28.8 kbits/s modem. Soon Google arrived, the web was ubiquitous and some teachers began to panic: It was the end of teaching, plagiarism would explode, the research paper was dead. Don’t ever look at Wikipedia and you can only use published books as sources. Imagine a school that followed that impulse—simply banning new technology out of fear or discomfort instead of engaging with it. Could that school pretend it had prepared students for their future? We are at a similar inf lection point in education right now with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Language Models such as ChatGPT. As I read through the many articles about these rising technologies, I was struck with how familiar the adoption pattern seems to the birth of Google. Some schools banned the use of ChatGPT immediately, terrified at its implication for their (often outdated) teaching model. It was Wikipedia all over again.

1 Upper School Art Class 2 Lower School Authors 3 Middle School Science 4 Middle School Science 5 Upper School Instrumental Ensemble 6 Halloween Parade 7 Buddy Day 8 SK Butterfly Migration

As the main story on AI at North Shore Smith lived through one of the most discusses, we have chosen a different path. disruptive, destructive and creative Actually, it would be more accurate to say periods of technological change in world that we have stayed on the path that has history, but he knew that if NSCD always defined us, that continues to serve equipped its students with the right tools, our students well and is evident throughthey would thrive in any environment. out these Acorn pages. Flipping through, I The gadgets I noted above are all physisee students using a myriad cal tools, and all have helped our students of wonderful old innovative tools from learn and grow over the years. The toolbox different eras. There is an Apple IIe and is an apt metaphor to describe an NSCD I think a Commodore 64, along with the education. In this context, I see our job as requisite pens, paintbrushes and chalkfourfold: First, help students add more boards. There is a great picture of students and more tools to their toolbox and learn in a language lab with some newfangled how to use them. Second, help them gain contraptions for listening. an understanding of when to use each tool. When your school is founded out of Third, foster a lifelong desire to add more the progressive education movement, tools to their toolbox. Finally, instill in there’s a good chance you will be open to them a compulsion to use their tools to experimentation, and we always have been. build for themselves and others. It’s in our DNA. I often reference our In this sense, the physical tools I listed founding headmaster, Perry Dunlap above are important, but they are just Smith, who opened North Shore Country aids to learning. In its current stage, AI Day in 1919 and served as the head until is massively fast and remarkably adept at 1954. He was a powerful intellect, gifted synthesizing information. Will it be a educator and talented writer. In so many revolutionary technology? Most likely. Our instances, the ways he spoke about teachtask then, is not to fear or avoid that teching and learning remain powerfully nology, but to understand it—what it is, relevant today. how it works, how to harness it. In December 1939, Smith wrote to That’s where we employ the tools— school parents, “These young people of the human ones—that have been at the ours will be called upon to play important core of a North Shore education since 1919. parts in the shaping of things to come They are the human tools—intellectual, before very long. We must do what we can emotional and physical—that students to make them ready.” He was speaking learn at North Shore and that prepare about the war that had already begun in them exceptionally well for a complex and Europe and writing a full two years before ever-changing world. Pearl Harbor, but he was highlighting the They are, we can confidently say to need for the progressive curriculum he Perry Dunlap Smith, ready for the created at North Shore to prepare students challenge. for an uncertain future. —Tom Flemma, Head of School

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THE FUTURE IS NOW

How AI is Reshaping Teaching and Learning

s technology continues to understand how and when to use it. advance at breakneck speed, artiThat’s why North Shore Country Day ficial intelligence, or AI, is no has been working hard to develop policies longer something out of a science fiction around AI, to establish guidelines and movie. It’s in our homes, in our cars, in guardrails so students in all divisions are our phones—and increasingly, it’s finding clear about when and how AI can be its way into the classroom. incorporated into their work. With the rise of what’s called genera“We’re excited about the possibilities tive AI, new opportunities are emerging of AI in terms of enhancing learning for teaching and learning in JK-12 schools and creativity in our students,” said like North Shore Country Day. Associate Head of School Mary Fielder, Generative AI refers to a technology who has been working on the policy with that can autonomously generate content, other school administrators and faculty. including text, images and even music “We are not one of those schools putting up and videos. By using a combination of a stiff arm and saying, ‘We’re not ready for machine learning algorithms and massive this.’ We are embracing it. We need to be a data sets, generative AI can mimic human place where students can engage with the creativity and produce original content world in which they live and be prepared with similar characteristics. This for the future they will inherit.” breakthrough technology presents unique Mary explained that both she and Head opportunities for education, requiring of School Tom Flemma, as well as the students and educators to think critically. divisional leadership, knew that they could By harnessing its potential and not just put a blanket ban on the use of teaching students how to use it generative AI tools. “There are some responsibly, educational institutions can schools that are essentially saying, ‘No, we open up a world of possibilities for are not embracing this and believe this is students and teachers alike. However, counter to students’ learning and to good like any tool, there are both advantages teaching.’ But we really didn’t feel that was and disadvantages, and it’s critical to the right approach.

Students in lower school are introduced to what are known as the “Five Big Ideas” in AI as early as junior and senior kindergarten. By the time they reach first grade, they are starting to put those ideas into practice.

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“We wanted to find a way to both embrace AI and also make sure that there is authentic learning happening for our students,” she said. “And that is the philosophical basis upon which our policy is built. Luckily, as a small school, we can be pretty nimble and responsive to what’s happening. And because we have such a low student-teacher ratio, our faculty know what our students’ authentic work product looks like.” At the end of last school year during closing faculty meetings, teachers discussed what they knew about AI, how they felt about it and what their hopes and fears were around the use of AI in the classroom. Administrators then worked over the summer to come up with a policy that was shared with students in the fall. Administrators also discussed the policy with parents during a series of divisional gatherings hosted by the Parents’ Association in November. Mary explained that the school has convened an advisory group made up of parents with expertise in the field so the school can keep up with what’s happening in AI development to revise the policy as needed. “We may need to revisit our approach to using AI tools in the classroom monthly based on how fast things are moving and how quickly it’s advancing,” she said.

“Technology is a double-edged sword,” One thing she does know: The quickest Mary said. “It can be incredibly dangerous way to get someone to read a book is to and it can be a game changer in terms of ban it. Likewise, if you tell students they improving the quality of life for humanity. aren’t allowed to use generative AI tools, Our focus is on teaching students the they will find ways to do so. skills they need to be able to ascertain “Instead of having a policy that is which aspects of AI will be able to serve restrictive and prohibitive and has a list humanity and make lives better, and of all the things that are going to happen if when it is potentially harmful. When it you cheat, I always go back to our school’s comes to AI, we want to help our students purpose statement about how the work discern the difference between ‘I can’ we’re doing here is helping students to and ‘I should.’” become self-confident, ethical citizens of That’s where Jenna Loise and Jared the world who live and serve—emphasis Branahl come in. Jenna is the director of on the ‘self-confident’ part,” she said. library and information literacy, and she “Because a self-confident researcher doesn’t has been working closely with Jared, the need a tool like generative AI to cheat. middle and upper school media and They’ve found a way to make it a meaninginformation literacy librarian, to figure ful part of their research process and not out how AI fits into a JK-12 space and how something they use because they procrasit can be used ethically and responsibly by tinated on an assignment and now they are students and teachers alike. backed up against a wall and it’s due “As librarians, we help students identify tomorrow and they haven’t started it yet.” how an emerging technology like Jared and Jenna have been tasked generative AI can become a part of the to come up with examples of how tools they use in their research processes,” generative AI might be used across Jenna explained. “There is no right way to the disciplines in all three divisions. incorporate AI, and there’s no one-sizeFor example, in an upper school fits-all method. Our students are eager for English class, a teacher could use AI to the conversation, and at the same time, I generate two essays and then have don’t think they’ve necessarily put a whole students compare and evaluate them. In a lot of thought into how it fits into their computer science class, students could individual research identities because generate code and then analyze it to see their research identities are still evolving.” how efficient it is. It could also be used for brainstorming or to help create outlines. The possibilities are endless. “When we incorporate AI into the classroom, it should be a very ref lective process where students and teachers can look back at each step and say, ‘How did we feel about that? Did that work for us? Did that help our workf low? Did that hinder us? Did it feel like it was still our ideas? Did we feel like our voice was getting lost in the process?’” Jared explained. “ These are all tied into parents’ and educators’ concerns about what we lose educationally with a tool like this. The fear is that if it can generate ideas and content, we’ll replace our students doing the thinking and the creating of ideas. So it’s important to keep having those checkins and ref lections to make sure it’s a process-oriented activity rather than a product-oriented one.” In technology class, first graders learn about the first “Big Idea” in AI: perception. Generative AI also has tremendous Computers perceive the world through sensors just as humans perceive the world potential to create more accessibility through the five senses. First they read a book called “Aria the Smart Car.” Next, for students with learning differences. they build and code their own vehicles, using sensors to detect and avoid obstacles. AI-powered systems can adapt and

For their Advanced Open Computer Science class, seniors Owen Keyt and Aramis Thai-Garcia (center) are working under the guidance of Computer Science Teacher Arturo Garcia (right) to help teachers learn how to incorporate generative AI into their classes.

generate course materials based on stuown work, not to generate it for them. dents’ strengths, weaknesses and learning Owen explained that with AI, there is styles. Teachers can use it to help differen- always a chance that the information is tiate lessons by taking difficult subject wrong. Sometimes the information promatter and unpacking it in simpler terms. duced looks reasonable, but is based on Students can use it as a tool to get faulty or outdated information—an AI through a place where they might be stuck. “hallucination.” Jenna and Jared are working with two “It’s so important that our students upper school students, Owen Keyt ’24 and verify the information they receive,” said Aramis Thai-Garcia ’24, who are doing an Associate Director of Technology Mike Advanced Open Computer Science project Martinez. “AI has the potential to shape with Middle and Upper School Computer our lives in profound ways, but we need to Science Teacher Arturo Garcia. be able to distinguish between genuine Owen and Aramis are taking a deep dive into some of the ways generative AI can be used in a classroom setting and are helping teachers find ways to use the For example, in tool to save time or to make their classes more engaging, Arturo explained. They an upper school are focusing on two or three teachers who English class, a are excited about the possibilities, then they will showcase some of the things teacher could use they are able to do. AI to generate two “This technology is not going anywhere, so our goal for this project is to help the essays and then school get ahead of the curve and to help have students teachers and students understand how AI works because it’s going to become more compare and and more prevalent,” Aramis said. evaluate them. They’re also looking at ways to use AI responsibly to augment an individual’s

knowledge and the illusions spun by AI algorithms. By urging our students to be active participants in their learning journey, we empower them to question, verify and rely on credible sources of information.” The problem is that it’s not always evident when something is computer-generated. “One of the things that’s great about AI is that it can feel very accessible, because you can chat back and forth with it, rephrase your question and ask for clarification,” Jared explained. “It feels like a personalized experience, but the underlying information it’s giving you can have credibility issues because it’s not citing its sources or telling you where it got the answer. And the outputs it provides are very well written and convincing. So if you don’t know the difference between a fact and an AI hallucination, there’s nothing within the text that’s going to tip you off.” For example, Mike Martinez is not the associate director of technology at North Shore Country Day. Both he, and his words, were generated through AI. But if you weren’t familiar with the school, it would be difficult to discern that he and the quotation that followed were completely made up.

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Collaboration between administration, faculty and students will be paramount in order to take advantage of the opportunities created by AI while mitigating its potential risks.

Under the guidance of Upper School Art Teacher Francis Allende, Trafton O’Brien ’24 used generative AI to create a video projection that was timed to music performed by the middle school chorus during the winter concert.

In addition to veracity of the output, there are also concerns about bias. These biases can be a result of the design choices made during the development process or the biases present in the training data used to train the algorithms. For example, a generative AI model used to create human-like faces may disproportionately generate faces that align with certain racial or gender stereotypes. Another concern is related to data privacy and security. Generative AI systems heavily rely on vast amounts of data and personal information to operate effectively. Schools and educational institutions have to prioritize security

measures to protect students’ personal information and ensure compliance with privacy regulations. Collaboration between administration, faculty and students will be paramount in order to take advantage of the opportunities created by AI while mitigating its potential risks. By embracing a proactive approach, we can navigate the ethical and practical complexities. Eventually, AI may even begin to feel commonplace. “In a lot of ways it’s like the internet or like mobile phones,” Owen said. “Sure, it’s a huge thing when it comes out, but like five years later, it’s just so normal. It’s crazy to think that the iPhone was released

Teachers Harness the Potential of AI Just over a year ago, on November 30, 2022, a chatbot developed by OpenAI called ChatGPT was released to the public. Ever since then, conversations around generative AI have moved into the mainstream. AI has been prevalent behind the scenes in a number of industries for years. Think about Siri and Alexa, or when Google maps guesses where you might be headed and suggests directions based on your typical travel patterns. Now, it’s making a beeline into education. “Students are already using AI every day,” explained Lower School Technology Teacher Julie Tuten. “It’s a part of their everyday lives, so we want to teach the students to become not only ethical creators, but also critical consumers of artificial intelligence.” Those lessons start as early as junior kindergarten with conversations about perception and bias. In technology class, they talk about the difference between human senses and robotic sensors. By first grade, they’re continuing those conversations and also beginning to use those sensors, building and programming “smart cars” that are able to detect objects and avoid them, which gives them a basic idea of how self-driving cars work. This leads to discussions about ethics and bias when machines learn to make decisions—and sometimes make the wrong call. In second grade, students use a program called AI for Oceans, which allows them to train a machine to sort through pictures of items in the ocean and decide which items belong in the water and which are trash. They discuss how machines learn and how artificial intelligence can be taught incorrectly. “The machine will sometimes remove octopus, jellyfish—anything that does not look like a typical fish,” Julie explained. “This is what we call ‘unintended consequences’ in AI and machine learning, and the students are able to experience this firsthand.” In the middle school, teachers have been utilizing tools like ChatGPT in creative writing and grammar projects. Humanities Teacher Elizabeth Kindig has been using it to quickly generate sentences that her students can use to practice various grammar skills. “I can request specific parameters for the sentences, for example sentences that use transitive verbs, and it can quickly give me as many examples as I need,” she explained. “I can also request that they be topical, so if I want Taylor Swift-themed sentences, I can have them. It’s great.”

in 2007. It feels so regular, and I think in a lot of ways AI might be like that in a few years, where it’s just a tool that now exists and it’s changed a lot of things, but we forget that it’s a very recent development.” But for now, the school still has a lot of work ahead as it continues to educate the community about this powerful tool and how it can be used to its full potential. “It’s exciting because this is going to push educators to think differently about what education is: It’s not about content delivery, it’s more about teaching the kids how to think critically,” Arturo said. “And part of that is knowing how and when to use a tool responsibly.”

In the upper school, students in Catalina Rincón-Bisbey’s Special Topics in Spanish class developed an upcycling project as a critique of the fastfashion industry. They used AI to incorporate elements of surrealism into their designs, working in collaboration with Upper School Art Teacher Francis Allende, who is a native Spanish speaker. Right now, AI is not being used widely in the classroom, but many teachers are beginning to find ways to incorporate it into their lessons here and there. Seniors Owen Keyt ’24 and Aramis Thai-Garcia ’24 are using their Advanced Open Computer Science class to help move that transition along. “Hopefully after seeing some of the possibilities, more teachers will buy into it,” explained Middle and Upper School Computer Science Teacher Arturo Garcia, who is advising Owen and Aramis on their project. “There’s still some hesitation, particularly in certain subjects, and it’s very justified. The goal is to educate the teachers so that they understand the tool a little bit better and then can make more informed decisions as to how to use it.”

Performing Arts Thriving, Evolving The performing arts department has made a number of changes to reflect ever-expanding opportunities and changing times.

he arts have always been a pillar of an NSCD education, and that emphasis continues today across all three divisions of the school. The core skills and experiences that the performing arts provide remain essential to a well-rounded education and, we continue to believe, a life well-lived. With an eye to expanding student participation, the performing arts department in recent years has made a number of changes to the curriculum to ref lect ever-expanding opportunities and changing times. Who would ever have predicted, for instance, that December’s lower and middle school chorus concert would incorporate art and video that upper school students created using artificial intelligence?

middle and upper school theater. “Having Sullivan’s work has become more a block set aside during the school day and more unattainable over the years, allows for a longer ensemble-building especially for students who have never process and provides more opportunities done theater before. When the school for risk-taking to develop as well—things started putting on their operas in the that truly help strengthen the rehearsal 1920s, classical voice training was more process that we just don’t have time to common. Also, the entire student body dig into after school.” was required to participate, so casting was The school still has a performing arts never an issue. requirement in the upper school. Students “Opera singing is really hard,” Julia have to participate in at least two explained. “It’s not something you can productions during their four years, and at just step into. Modern musical theater is least one of those times must be onstage. a little more approachable with the type Now that the productions are incorporated of singing and the types of characters into classes, students who take them you can play. The last time we did ‘Pirates’ fulfill one of those requirements. However, in 2020 we were dealing with so much because performing is still required of student anxiety and vocal strain. I don’t every single student, the range of know how we got through it, honestly. experience in any given show can be wide. That’s when we knew something had to change.” TRANSFORMING CURRICULUM G I L B E R T A N D S U L L I VA N The technical aspect of the productions A N D E X PA N D I N G O P P O R T U N I T I E S T R A D I T I O N TA K E S A B O W is not the only stumbling block, however. The number and variety of performing That experience range, along with The works of Gilbert and Sullivan blended arts courses available to students today changing times and tastes, persuaded the witty and satirical lyrics with catchy have greatly expanded. In addition to more school’s administration this year to sunset melodies, both entertaining audiences and basic introduction to theater courses, the tradition of mandating the perforproviding social commentary on students in middle and upper school mance of operettas by librettist W.S. Victorian society. can delve into specific classes and subject Gilbert and composer Arthur Sullivan “Back then, it was groundbreaking,” areas such as acting, directing and every four years. This will give students Julia said. “It was this topsy-turvy stagecraft. Our most advanced students more opportunities to perform in a wide pattern of singing that nobody had ever can access the Advanced Open Studio range of musicals more suited to their heard before.” course, which allows them to dive deeply vocal ability and musical preferences, In their heyday, their shows were all into a topic of interest and create their own while still balancing rigorous coursework the rage and had a pervasive inf luence on curriculum in partnership with a teacher. and athletics. popular culture, the English language and Perhaps the biggest change has been “A big challenge was time. Student life the development of musical theater in the embedding production opportunities into has changed so drastically from what it 20th century. It was during this time that classes, so more rehearsals can take place was like a hundred years ago,” Julia founding Headmaster Perry Dunlap during the school day. For example, the explained. “We want to be able to choose Smith brought Gilbert and Sullivan to Take 10! Play Festival is now offered in the productions that work with their heavy North Shore. fall and incorporated into the directing academic schedules and numerous afterIt only made sense that a progressive class. And everyone who enrolls in the school commitments, and we also want to school would put on progressive perforacting ensemble class automatically is be able to choose productions that are mances, ones that made a statement about part of the spring musical. accessible for today’s students—shows and sometimes even poked fun at the “It’s really fun for me to see who I that the students are excited about and establishment, challenged norms and have to work with, and then I can pick the stories they are excited to tell, because made a case for social change. But 100 play based on the student talent pool,” obviously we want them to shine.” years later, viewed through a more contemexplained Performing Arts Department The style of singing and technical porary lens, Gilbert and Sullivan’s works Head Julia Macholl, who also teaches expertise demanded by Gilbert and don’t stand up as well. 10

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The operettas often relied on racial and ethnic stereotypes, particularly in shows like “The Mikado,” set in Japan. The overly exaggerated caricatures, combined with actors in yellowface, cross a line in 2023 that didn’t exist a hundred years ago. What used to be considered funny or cutting edge is less fitting for an increasingly diverse school community that strives for inclusivity, where all people are treated with respect and dignity. “We want our students to understand that learning is a lifelong venture, and as we evolve in our understanding of identity, culture and impact, our choices and decisions evolve, too,” explained Lauren Collins, NSCD’s director of equity, inclusion and community engagement. “We actively and intentionally prepare young people to engage equitably and ethically in our current culture, but we also equip them with tools and skills to be agents of change when they leave NSCD.”

FOSTERING SKILLS THROUGH PERFORMING

What will not change is the performing arts department’s desire to choose productions that bring out the best in NSCD students, that truly showcase their talents and also allow them to grow. As NSCD continues to build out its essential skills curriculum, the arts remain fundamental. The very process of being in a production, whether onstage or off, helps students build skills they can use in college and life: speaking to a large audience, developing an onstage presence, gaining confidence, problem solving, collaboration, empathy, f lexibility. It prepares them for working under pressure in all kinds of situations with different types of people. And, perhaps most importantly, it helps them build deep, lifelong friendships.

“The common thread of the performing arts, from ‘Iolanthe’ to ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ is community,” Julia explained. “Being in a production, especially a musical, is such an intimate experience that you remember for such a long time. There’s still that same throughline of family and connection, sharing it with the community, coming together as a group and working toward the same goal.”

SAVE THE DATE March 7-9, 2024 When the curtain opens for the spring musical, an alien plant will be invading Skid Row in “Little Shop of Horrors.” Keep an eye out for ticket info at nscds.org/performingarts.

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SAACHI SHAH ’09 As far as she’s concerned, her career — most recently with a startup in Palo Alto that helps companies personalize content using generative AI — could not have blossomed as it did without NSCD.

hen Saachi Shah ’09 talks about India when she was 10. She remembers was so knowledgeable about the topic, but the career she’s built combining moving to suburban Skokie, and her because he constantly and gently guided her love of technology and the business family deciding that NSCD would be the you when you made mistakes. I think that world, her appreciation for San Francisco’s best fit for her. She was nervous, she said: was pivotal,” she said, adding that he pleasant climate or the experiences she “It was a new school, and my English was helped her develop the kind of confidence gained as a North Shore Country Day probably not the best.” that people in the sciences need. Science Olympiad team member, she pepHer nervousness didn’t last long. She Science Olympiad head coach Lee pers her conversation with the was buoyed by the kindness teachers Block, who still teaches middle school sciword “phenomenal.” showed her, she said, something for which ence and robotics at NSCD, remembers That word might describe Saachi she’s always been grateful. What’s more, being very impressed with Saachi during herself; it certainly illustrates the exciteshe f lourished under North Shore’s philos- the years he worked with her on the ment with which she approaches life. ophy of gently pushing students past what middle and upper school Science And as far as she’s concerned, her career— they might think of as limits. Olympiad teams. most recently with a startup in Palo Alto “I’m short, but I was on the volleyball “She would never give up. She stuck that helps companies personalize content team. I have no dramatic skill, but I did with it, and if she wasn’t successful, or she using generative AI—could not have the Shakespeare plays,” she said. “It’s a didn’t like what she was doing, she would blossomed as it did without NSCD. great place to go outside your comfort go back to the drawing board. … She really In fact, Saachi attributes much of her zone. I appreciate that.” studied. She’d take videos of her bridges later successes to the challenges she met The kindness of teachers like Burke breaking in slow motion, and would find and surmounted as a Science Olympiad Kinnaird and Barbara Woodman has out what went wrong,” he said. participant. stayed with her. She also praises her Ultimately, Saachi said, her Science “I was on the Olympiad team basically Science Olympiad mentors. They included Olympiad experience convinced her that from day one,” she said. “In a classroom Lee Block, and the late L. Eric Skalinder, technology was going to be part of her setting you learn a lot, but at the end whom she calls one of her favorite teachfuture, especially engineering. of the day, to a certain level, it’s all just ers, and who nurtured her engineering The analytic skills learned in engineertheory. I think Science Olympiad gives interest in bridge building, a major focus ing can be useful in any field, she said, “so students the chance to put that learning of her Science Olympiad efforts. And she my plan was always to start in engineering into practice. And I just loved it.” remembers with fondness the late longand eventually, down the line, get an MBA. Saachi came to North Shore as a sixth time Science Olympiad volunteer Howard And in between I wanted to do something grade student. She and her family, mom Jessen, a retired structural engineer. that’s at the intersection of business and Heena and dad Tridip, were new to the “Mr. Skalinder was absolutely technology.” Chicago area, having emigrated from phenomenal, and it’s not only because he 12

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After graduating from NSCD, Saachi such vehicles could eventually help cut to the beach, you can go to wine country, stuck to that plan. She studied at the their accident levels while lowering energy you can find wonderful places to hike, University of Illinois, graduating in 2013 footprints, she said. which we like to do with our puppy, or you with a systems engineering degree. She Today, Saachi is a product manager can just hang out in the city,” she said. then attended Tuck School of Business at for Typeface, a Palo Alto-based company “We also love a good movie, so at-home Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, focused on using generative AI (artificial movie nights are phenomenal. And we’re graduating in 2021 with a master’s degree intelligence) to help companies create lucky enough to have a very good set of in business administration. their own marketing content. For the friends here. Before graduating from Tuck, she uninitiated, generative AI is, according “And of course, the weather not spent six months in 2016 working for a to the Investopedia website, “a type of dropping into the 20s and the zeroes, startup in Latin America. “I think that’s artificial intelligence that can produce really helps as well!” she joked, recalling where this passion for emerging technolo- content such as audio, text, code, video, the shock with which she encountered gies really erupted for me,” Saachi said. images and other data.” For example, Chicago winters as a newcomer. “San “I just loved it. I thought it was a strong ChatGPT is a product that uses generative Francisco’s not too hot, either. The weather intersection of being creative, but also AI technology. is just kind of perfect; right now, it’s being quantitative and analytically It’s a field she has spent the last several jacket weather.” minded. I came back to the U.S. and I months getting to know, and she is enthuSaachi said she would like to restart said, ‘I want to stay in this innovation in siastic about its potential. She doesn’t a practice that began at NSCD, that of technology sector!’” think generative AI advocates need to con- volunteering; she hopes to find the time to Her first job after earning her MBA vince companies about how valuable it is. identify an organization she can do that was as an innovation lead with Bain & “I think where the challenge comes in is with, noting that two things she believes Company. As her career proceeded, she helping them understand where the value define her—being interested in technolstrongly believed in the transformatively is and what quantitative benefit it’s going ogy and in volunteering—both originated positive nature of the most recent emergto bring to their organization. I think as with the school. ing technologies: “I think I looked at the technology matures, that value is just “Honestly, it’s lifelong relationships technology as a way to make the world going to get clearer and clearer.” that get developed at North Shore,” she a better place.” Although work keeps Saachi busy, she summed up. “I think that the community She uses the example of autonomous, and husband Nishant Bubna, whom she that the school provides is just phenomeor self-driving, vehicles, something she’s wed in 2022, take time to enjoy themnal. And that community is what helps you familiar with from her time at Thales, a selves in San Francisco. make meaningful relationships that can technology company based in France. “What I really love about the Bay Area is stand for a lifetime!” Working with technology and data on its versatility. Within an hour, you can go

a c o r n · Winter 2024

pa r en t s’ a ssoci at ion

Fall Divisional Gathering: Mary Fielder

Fall Divisional Gathering: Caitlin McLennan and Tim Sheehan

Homecoming Volunteers: Matt A’Hearn, Kim and Greg Frezados, Susanna Ver Eecke and Kathryn A’Hearn

Fall Divisional Gatherings

Teacher Appreciation Committee

Teacher Appreciation

school to the attention of PA Treasurer This fall, the PA hosted lower, middle and We all know about Teacher Appreciation or donate online via Venmo @nsdcs310 or upper school parent gatherings on camWeek in the spring, but our PA Teacher pus. Members of school administration— Appreciation chairs and their committees PayPal at PayPal.me/nscds. including Head of School Tom Flemma, celebrate our teachers all year long! From Associate Head of School Mary Fielder and providing snacks during classroom setup Thank You to Director of Equity, Diversity and and orientation to bringing treats and not the Athletic Council Community Engagement Lauren Collins— tricks at Halloween, our PA Teacher were joined by divisional leadership to Appreciation Chairs Katie Devereux, Lynn A huge thank you to the more than 70 take part in a panel discussion of current Kahla-Ryan, Christina Self, Jessica Shinn, volunteers and staff members who programs and projects and then answered Vanessa Colman and Vera Xu, and all of made Homecoming 2023 a great success! questions from parents. A special topic of the volunteers on their committees have A special shout out to Homecoming discussion at each of the gatherings was been hard at work. We can’t thank them Coordinator extraordinaire Bob Smith the development of the school’s new enough for their creativity and commit(Dare we call him our Homecoming Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy, with the ment! If you would like to help the PA rec- King?) as well as Athletic Council help of the newly formed AI Advisory ognize our amazing teachers and staff, Programs Coordinator Stacy Ackley, Group, including parents with expertise in please contribute to this year’s Faculty/ Raj and Shrunali Rai, Betty Fisher the field. Mary and Middle and Upper Staff Appreciation Gift. You should have Wiggins ’93, Ellen Knight, Sarah Levi School Information and Media Librarian received a letter and email inviting your and Danielle Vanden Heuvel, and all Jared Branahl outlined the purpose and family to participate. We are so grateful for of our fabulous Team Parents who goals behind the policy, which is intended the generosity of our families who recogworked so hard to make Homecoming to teach students both the benefits and nize all of our wonderful faculty and staff. a fun-filled weekend for all. weaknesses of AI use. (See story, page 4.) To contribute, you can send a check to the 14

ac a demics

Jameson Tao ’24 and Kai Diorio ’36

Izzy Greenstein ’26, Raman Sargon ’33 and Annie Ford ’26

Dixie Oelerich ’26, Leo Wachter ’33 and Emeka Ogbolumani ’26

Kenna McLennan ’36 and Tessa Adamson-Tate ’24

Buddy Program Fosters Meaningful Connections Across Grades One of North Shore Country Day’s most beloved traditions is the buddy program, where older students are paired with younger students for various activities throughout the year. Most people immediately think of the junior and senior kindergartners, who are paired with seniors, but in fact, every grade in the school has a buddy pair: first and second with eighth grade, third with tenth grade, fourth with seventh grade, fifth with ninth grade and sixth with eleventh grade. The first Buddy Day of the 2023-24 school year took place on September 23, and students had a blast getting to know their buddies. The seniors read stories to the JK and SK students, while other buddy groups played “get to know you” games, made up secret handshakes or turned their names into songs. Buddies met again during Homecoming week to make decorations for the weekend. JK and SK students outlined their buddies and painted lifesize posters of them, while other buddy pairs chalked the sidewalk in front of the

auditorium and lower school and made excitement and connection. It also brings posters. The buddy pairs will continue to a sense of pride to the older buddies. “I meet throughout the year for various activ- think it makes them feel really special, ities — some social and some more knowing there’s someone who automatiacademic-focused. cally thinks they are this really important It’s unclear when the buddy program person,” Caitlin said. officially started at North Shore, but the She often sees remarkable growth in idea of older students and younger stuthe older buddies, who may have started as dents working together goes back to found- quiet lower school students. Throughout ing headmaster Perry Dunlap Smith, and the year, these students become leaders for there are records in the archives of grades their younger buddies, displaying newpairing off and seniors sitting with kinder- found confidence and honing their ability gartners during Morning Ex as far back as to speak up on behalf of others. “It’s the 1960s. The idea of JK to 12-ness has incredible to see how much they’ve grown,” been part of the fabric of North Shore for a she said. very long time. The relationships formed between budThe buddy program fosters a sense of dies are often incredibly meaningful, for community and the development of valuboth the little buddy and the bigger one, able skills. As Assistant Head of Lower and those feelings stay with them even School Caitlin McLennan explained, “It is after they graduate. a way for lower schoolers to feel like a part “Having two JK buddies was a highlight of the bigger school community right from of my year,” said Ella Capozzi ’23. “They the start.” were both super fun and so energetic. It Throughout the year, younger students brought a youthful sense to my day every get the opportunity to engage with their time I saw them.” older buddies, igniting a sense of

a c o r n · Winter 2024

ac a demics

Kate Connolly ’26 and Zhilin Chen ’27

Interim trip to the Netherlands

Zahra Omar ’26, Claire Borovicka ’27, Zade Schatz ’26, Via Kelly ’25, Thomas Carlino ’26, Lily Bogie ’27, Dom Rozsival ’25 and Nolan Howard ’27

Seniors Aramis Thai-Garcia, Owen Keyt, Simon Ugarte, Tessa Adamson-Tate, Alli Smith and Maya Belabbes

Upper School Interim: Transforming Learning Through Hands-On Experiences When you ask seniors about their favorite memories from North Shore Country Day, there is always one consistently recurring theme: Interim. This week every fall set aside for experiential education is a time for students to step away from their everyday routines and explore something outside their comfort zone. This year, students had the opportunity to choose one of five travel-based Interims: a trip from Athens to Crete in Greece, with a focus on sustainability; an exploration of ingenuity and innovation in the Netherlands; a tour around the mainland and a few islands of Greece, learning about ancient history and culture; f ly fishing in Virginia; or a week of Broadway shows in New York. Students who wanted to stay closer to home could choose from a selection of 11 local experiences. One student also completed an internship during this time. New local offerings included Latin American cooking (and eating), a performative art and science workshop incorporating puppetry and videography, mountain climbing, a look at the life and 16

work of Frank Lloyd Wright, an exploration participants, community composition or of French and Francophone culture, and some other factor. At the conclusion of an immersive adventure in science, Interim, students should be able to contechnology, engineering, arts and sider how the experience affected them or mathematics (STEAM). challenged their thinking, their feelings, Alli Smith ’24 participated in “Nature, their sense of self and their values. This Writing and Solitude,” a longstanding year, five of the 16 local options were Interim where students unplug from their Community Engagement Interims. devices and experience the natural world. For his Interim, Edgar Romero ’25 “Everything feels a lot lighter,” she said. spent time volunteering at Marillac St. “It’s hard to leave your phone behind Vincent Family Services, an organization whenever you want because there is a con- that provides support to people on the stant expectation that you have your device West Side of Chicago. Students spent some on you and to always be reachable. Having of the time with Hope Junior, Marillac’s this time where I have no choice and know neighborhood youth program. there isn’t that expectation of me opens up “During my last day at Marillac Hope so much breathing room to just be in the Junior, I remember thinking about how I moment. I’ve noticed so much laughter in didn’t want to leave, how this place had small moments and fun little games being had such an impact on me that I wanted to played that just arise that had we had our stay because I learned and deeply underphones might not have happened.” stood what this place meant to other peoAt least once in four years, students are ple and how it was a second family,” he required to participate in a Community explained. “In my time at Hope Junior, I Engagement Interim, projects that connect was able to use my knowledge of the students to an outside community that is Spanish language to speak with a different from NSCD in at least one signif- Venezuelan high schooler and her siblings icant way, by virtue of location, identity of who did not speak English. I was able to

Brianna Holmberg ’26 and Ellie Rose Horowitz ’26

The Power of Affinity for Middle Schoolers At North Shore, we know that children thrive when they are known and supported as their whole, authentic selves. A crucial piece of that puzzle is guiding students through their own journey of understanding and discovering who they are and what they value. There is not a more critical moment for this than in middle school—a time when students are entering adolescence, trying new interests and friend groups while looking for the answer to “Who am I?” One of the many ways that we encourage this necessary identity development with our middle schoolers is through our affinity group programming. Affinity groups are North Shore’s “Connecting” pillar put into action because this identity development helps our students understand themselves, each other and their world. U N D E R S TA N D I N G O U R S E LV E S

Leo Baumann ’25

communicate effectively with them and become good friends with them. I realized the importance of communication and … what you can learn from simply saying ‘hello’ or ‘hola.’” Since 1976, Interim Week has provided transformational experiential learning for NSCD students. It’s a unique opportunity to explore new ideas, concepts and activities students would not be able to encounter independently or in a typical classroom environment, and it’s a crucial component to the North Shore upper school experience. Faculty and administrators work hard to create Interim offerings that ref lect the origin of the word “educate”—to lead out into the world at large—taking advantage of the many resources available. Students engage with and ref lect on new ways of approaching relationships, communities and society. Ideally, the Interim experience challenges students to extend beyond their existing comfort zone. To learn more about student’s Interim experiences, visit bit.ly/Interim-2023.

Affinity groups offer an ideal setting for students to explore and celebrate an aspect of their identity, helping them develop a richer understanding of that part of themselves. In a space where everyone shares a common identifier, students are able to discuss that aspect of their identity with less of a concern for being judged or misunderstood by someone who has not shared in that lived experience. Affinity groups offer a space for ref lection and support, helping students feel a sense of empowerment and belonging. U N D E R S TA N D I N G E A C H O T H E R

Additionally, since no group is a monolith, each student in an affinity group has their own individual experiences to bring to the table. One student’s experience with disability, for example, may be entirely different than that of another classmate due to their other identities, differences in past experiences or differences in the visibility of the disability. Though students in an affinity group have some shared experiences, these groups are also an opportunity to listen and learn about the experiences of others with that identifier, developing their capacity for empathy to better understand others in their community. U N D E R S TA N D I N G O U R W O R L D

Lastly, affinity groups offer students the opportunity to connect their developing sense of identity with the world around them. In combination with our Learning Circles programming, students ref lect on how their identities are affected by societal structures around them. Every student holds some combination of identities that are advantaged or marginalized by society. Affinity groups offer students a space to further understand how those identities intersect within themselves, as well as how their identities fit into the bigger picture of the world around them. With a deeper understanding, students are more empowered to take action as the ethical citizens of the world we hope to create. —Christine Ritchey, Middle School Learning Specialist and EDI Coordinator

a c o r n · Winter 2024

ac a demics

Margaret Rioja-Rasmussen (center) with her dad, Ivan Rioja Scott, and grandmother, Margaret Scott

David Green and Lucas Pinto ’33

Third Graders Celebrate Identity Something extraordinary is happening on which is one of the languages spoken in the top f loor of the lower school at North his home, along with English and Punjabi. Shore Country Day, where students in “It was like a chain reaction,” another David Green’s and Stephanie Mangum’s student remarked. third grade classrooms are celebrating the One by one, other students were identities of their classmates in a few cre- inspired to read poems in their own lanative ways. guages, and in this year’s third grade, In David’s classroom, students not only there are many to choose from. Arabic, are reading poetry, but also are embracing Assyrian (Aramaic), Chinese, French and the diversity of their classmates’ cultures Creole, Korean, Malayalam, Polish, by listening to poems written in languages Portuguese and Urdu are some of the other than English. other languages they hear in their homes For the past three years, David has been or speak with varying degrees of f luency. incorporating a poetry reading into the David says it’s been fun to watch stuthird graders’ daily routine, without the dents go home and search for poems in need for lengthy discussions or analysis. their own languages, eager to bring them One day this fall, he read a translation back to share with their classmates. For of a piece by Colombian-American poet these third graders, poetry and cultural Gloria Muñoz. And because he believes heritage have intertwined in a beautifully that poetry needs to be heard in its origiorganic way. nal language, he asked Alicia BisbeyHe said Dhilan came back with a poem Rincón ’33, who speaks Spanish f luently, his grandmother wrote out for him on a to read the original version. piece of paper. When he needed a little “The sounds and rhythm are so impor- more time to practice, Sarah Liang ’33 tant in poetry,” David explained. “Poets jumped in and recited a poem she had don’t do anything by accident, down to memorized in Chinese. what vowels they want in this word or what “Culture can manifest in countless consonants, and so in translation, you lose ways, and one way we do it is through all of that. It’s so important to always lispoetry,” David explained. “Usually when ten to poems in their original language, you talk about culture, you talk about whether you understand it or not.” clothing and food and holidays. Poetry is A few days after Alicia read the poem in not typically high on the list as a way to Spanish, her classmate Dhilan Suri ’33 acknowledge it and celebrate it. But in asked if he could read a poem in Hindi, here, it is.” 18

Another way the third grade teachers are celebrating the rich diversity of the class is through what they’re calling “Family Thursdays.” Over the summer, Stephanie attended a Responsive Classroom training and was inspired to provide a way for this extremely diverse group of learners to share with the rest of their class about a part of their identity. Once a week on Thursday mornings throughout the school year, third grade families can sign up for a 30-minute time slot to share about anything that’s important to them, from their culture or traditions, to a passion they have outside of school. This could be something related to their ethnic or religious heritage, but it doesn’t have to be; students could share pictures from a family trip, read a favorite book or teach a favorite game. Families can choose almost anything. “By doing this, our hope is that our students feel more valued and validated in all of the parts of their identity, and also get to teach others something they love about themselves,” Stephanie explained. Third graders love to ask questions, so they’ve been learning a lot from the classroom visitors, both about a culture that might be new or less familiar to them and also about the family life of a classmate. “They’ve been going so well, and each presentation has had its own unique and creative spin,” Stephanie said. “It truly has been something special.”

accomplishmen t s

Emi Comeau ’24

Jameson Tao ’24

FIRST LEGO League

Upper school chorus

Sam Beukenkamp ’29 (Photo by Todd Rosenberg)

Dhilan Suri ’33

Senior Recognition Emi Comeau ’24 received the College Board’s 2023 National African American Recognition Award. To be eligible for the awards, students must meet certain academic requirements and either attend school in a rural area or identify as Black, Latino or Indigenous. Jameson Tao ’24 was honored as a National Merit Semifinalist by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. He was one of 16,000 students recognized nationwide, from an initial pool of 1.3 million entrants. He will learn if he is selected as a National Merit Finalist in early February.

Chorus Highlights Student singers in all three divisions have been on a whirlwind musical journey this fall. The upper school chorus performed the national anthem at the Northwestern University women’s basketball home opener, then again at a women’s volleyball game. Then Emma Guerra Pastrana ’32 sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful” at the Village of Winnetka’s annual Veterans Day ceremony. The middle and upper school choruses also sang alongside a number of other area choirs for Family Day at the

Chicago Wolves hockey game at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont. Additionally, middle school chorus members Ishana Iyer ’28, Sarah Milbratz ’28, Mira Roy ’29, Gabby Schiffman ’28 and Bronwyn Wood ’28 performed in the Illinois Music Educators Association District 7 Junior Festival at Glenbrook South High School. Through audition, they were selected to spend a day rehearsing and performing with about 130 other choir students from the Chicagoland area.

the next round—sectionals. FIRST LEGO League introduces science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to children through fun, exciting hands-on learning. This is the second year NSCD has participated in the program.

Onstage at the Ballet

Sam Beukenkamp ’29 and Lula Beukenkamp ’32 appeared in the Joffrey Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker” in December. Reimagined for the great city of Chicago, Christopher Wheeldon’s FIRST LEGO League adaptation of the Tchaikovsky classic is The Robo Raiders, one of North Shore set during the World’s Columbian Country Day’s FIRST LEGO League teams, Exposition of 1893. Sam played Franz, took home the Engineering Excellence the younger brother of the heroine, Award at a Chicago qualifying event at Marie, while Lula danced as a snowf lake. Francis W. Parker School in December. The award “celebrates a team with an Buzzing to Nationals efficiently designed robot, an innovative Project solution that effectively addresses Dhilan Suri ’33 took first place at the regional level in both the History and the season Challenge and great Core Science Bees, sponsored by International Values, evident in all they do.” NSCD’s Academic Competitions. This qualifies other team, the Raider Gators, also competed at a Chicago qualifier, where Lower him to compete at both the national and School Science Teacher Annie Collins was world championships in both subjects. The Middle and Elementary honored with the Mentor Award. Both teams, made up of fourth through seventh School National Championships will graders, scored in the top six to move on to take place May 23-27 in Orlando.

a c o r n · Winter 2024

dis t inguished gues t s

John and Isabel Fiore, Ted Notz ’53 and Sandra Notz, Teddy Notz Jr. and Tiffany Notz, and Janis and John Notz ’49

Ted Notz ’53 Receives Stanton Recognition On the Saturday of Homecoming Reunion Weekend, North Shore Country Day presented the 42nd annual Francis R. Stanton ’27 Recognition to former Alumni Board member Ted Notz ’53, a lawyer whose impact has stretched far beyond the courtroom and into the lives of many. The Stanton recognition is given each year to an alum whose life work exemplifies the school’s motto, “Live and Serve.” Ted spent the day before the presentation meeting with students, faculty and staff. He was celebrating his 88th birthday that day, and the third graders he met with helped him celebrate. “I had a ball,” he said during his remarks in the auditorium Saturday. “The enthusiasm of those kids… I wish you could have been there.” He went on to explain that based on what he had observed during his visit and from his interactions with the students, the future looked promising. “Did any of you see the moon last night?” Ted asked. “If you think that moon was bright, the kids that I was with were brighter.” Ted encouraged students to stay up-todate on current events, remain civically engaged, for those who are of age to vote, and to always put the school’s “Live and Serve” motto into practice. “It’s been a good run for me,” he said. Alumni Board President Sarah Geist Rosen ’86 presented Ted with the official citation. 20

C I TAT I O N

This year’s recipient, Ted Notz ’53, was chosen for his service to his country, his community and to communities that have limited access to resources. He is the brother of John Notz ’49 and the late Elinor Foltz ’51. After attending NSCD for 7 years, he attended Deerfield Academy in Massachusetts, graduated from Yale University and attended Northwestern University’s School of Law. Following law school, he was sworn into the United States Marine Corps Reserve; training at Parris Island, South Carolina, and serving out his six-year reserve commitment as the Platoon Sergeant of a 81mm mortar platoon before ending his service in the battalion’s Intelligence group. Ted was an attorney whose impact stretched far beyond the courtroom. Throughout his life, he has served on numerous civic and service committees, including the NSCD Alumni Board. He also chaired the two largest committees of the Chicago Bar Association. Ted was a founding member of the Junior Board of Lawrence Hall Home for Boys serving the North Side of Chicago and co-founder of The Spirit of 67 Foundation, a public charity formed to support and endow local public elementary school programs in Lake Forest, Illinois. He supported the creation of guardianships and volunteered for appointment as Guardian ad Litem to protect children in proceedings before the

Cook County Circuit Court’s Family Law Division and to represent disabled persons of all ages who were the subject of disability proceedings in the Cook County Probate Division. Most notably, he served as the first non-founder president of BUILD, Inc. (Broader Urban Involvement & Leadership Development). Recently celebrating its 50th year of service to the City of Chicago, BUILD works to deal with gang intervention, violence prevention and youth development. Since 1969, BUILD has helped thousands of young people transform their lives, and today reaches over 6,500 youth and families a year with caring adult mentors and a rich variety of experiences in the arts, athletics, college and career preparation, entrepreneurship, leadership development, technology, and mental health programming. During Ted’s time with BUILD, the goal was to keep kids on Chicago’s North Side from getting interested in gang violence. Some of his most interesting time was spent talking with kids about job opportunities and trade school options. He was able to share more of the world outside the neighborhoods. Ted seizes the opportunity to give to others what they may not be able to give to themselves. His impressive career, deep commitment to the greater community, and his dedication and advocacy to achieve equity and inclusion exemplifies the school motto of “Live and Serve.”

Ted with upper schoolers

Ted with seventh graders

Tom Flemma, Sarah Geist Rosen ’86 and Ted Notz ’53

Francis Stanton ’73 with classmates

Ted with seventh graders

Ted with third graders

a c o r n · Winter 2024

dis t inguished gues t s

Dan Killian ’05

Todd Searle ’05 (right)

Lewis Simon ’17

Alumni on Campus DAN KILLIAN ’05 LEWIS SIMON ’17 predetermined check-points along the way. Creative strategist, speaker and trainer Student entrepreneur and former AAA Unlike multi-stage racing like the Tour de Dan Killian ’05 spoke to middle schoolers hockey player Lewis Simon ’17 visited the France, randonneuring, which loosely in the Digital Media and Design class upper school entrepreneurship class in translates to “rambling,” is non-competiabout his experience launching a business. December to share his story with the stutive in nature, although there is a time Dan is the creator of Pricetitution, a dents and answer questions. Just a few limit. It also emphasizes self-sufficiency, card game where you get to know your years ago, it looked like Lewis was on track so if cyclists get a f lat tire or something friends by guessing how much money it to accomplish his lifelong dream of playhappens with their bicycle, they would take them to do absurd things. ing in the NHL. But a series of concushave to fix it themselves. Dan is proud to have received four offers sions when he was younger and a Randonneuring events, known as on ABC’s “Shark Tank” and accepted an traumatic brain injury (TBI) forced him to “brevets,” are typically 200, 300, 400 or offer from two Sharks. find a new path. Now as a senior at 600 kilometers (120, 190, 250 or 370 Dan joined the class via Google Meet Northwestern University studying organi- miles), but one of the most famous and to share his experiences and answer zational change, Lewis is the youth hockey oldest bicycling event in the world is questions from eager students. He was director and head coach at the Reapers Paris–Brest–Paris, a 1,200 kilometer able to mentor students as they navigate Hockey Association and founder of STY (about 750 mile) out and back ride between the process of completing their final House, which stands for “Strengthen the Paris and Brest in France that takes place project for the class, where they will Youth.” STY House started as a men’s ath- once every four years. Noah decided he design and create their own board games. letic clothing line, but has since expanded wanted to do it. But not just anyone can Upon completion of the project, the to include youth apparel. Lewis is dediride; cyclists have to qualify by completing students will have to pitch their games to cated to raising awareness about concusa series of brevets all in the same year—at second and third grade classes, who will sions and other TBIs through his business least one 200, 300, 400 and 600 kilomeroleplay as “Shark Tank” investors. and a partnership with the Concussion ter ride (or longer). Legacy Foundation. Noah began completing brevets all TODD SEARLE ’05 over the country, from California to Author, creative director and entrepreneur N O A H S W A R T Z ’ 0 6 Michigan to Pennsylvania to Virginia. He Todd Searle ’05 visited NSCD and shared NSCD lifer Noah Swartz ’06 returned to soon qualified for Paris–Brest–Paris, but invaluable lessons from his career with campus in December to give a Morning Ex he rode a few extra brevets just to get the upper school students in Drea Gallaga’s talk on his adventures in extreme cycling. practice in. Eventually he was ready to entrepreneurship class. Todd is a pubNoah, who now lives in the Bay area, said head to France. lished author, watch collector and creator that when he was a student, he was the He spent the week before the ride playof the film “Seeking Perfect: The Art of last person you’d expect to see talking ing tourist, because he knew he would be Watchmaking.” about anything to do with athletics. The too exhausted to do any sightseeing after From the power of storytelling to chess club was more his speed. But when it was over. And before he knew it, it was the importance of adaptability, his words he moved west, he started using a bike to time to go. He would have 90 hours to resonated deeply, sparking a fire of ambi- commute to and from work, and little by complete the course, and the clock runs tion in the hearts and minds of the little, he began to push himself to see if he continuously. Noah shared about the budding entrepreneurs. Todd left the could go a little farther. grueling ride. He arrived at the first students with much to consider and great Eventually he worked his way up to checkpoint later than he expected, so he advice. He told the class to “say, ‘Yes, 100 miles and survived. So he wanted to only slept for a few hours before moving and…’ to your own ideas. Start expanding see if he could go a little farther. And he on again. The second stretch took longer, on them and try stuff. Iterate. Fail. Fail did. He decided to try out the sport of too, so he only slept for a handful of hours as often as you can because that’s how randonneuring, long-distance unsupover the entire period. During the third you learn what’s going to work and ported endurance cycling on courses of leg, it rained. But in the end, he finished, what doesn’t work.” 200 kilometers or more with and it was a tremendous achievement.

Noah Swartz ’06

Noah said he wanted to come back to campus because he remembers how inspired he was as a student, listening to stories of people’s adventures and achievements. He particularly remembers stories about mountain climbing from a Morning Ex by former NSCD trustee Jim Lumberg, father of Hannah ’15 and Sarah ’17. After he shared his story, Noah had time to answer a few questions. Students were curious about how you get a bike to France. (It comes apart, and you check it.) They also wondered if he’s ever had a bad wipeout. (He has not.) And some students were even inspired to see how far they could ride on their own bicycles.

Michelle Icard on the Power of Failure Michelle Icard, author of the book “8 Setbacks That Can Make a Child a Success,” made a stop at North Shore Country Day in October to talk about how failure can be a crucial component in building resilience in children. The evening event, which was open to the public, was sponsored by the Family Action Network (FAN) and held in the North Shore Country Day auditorium. In conversation with Assistant Head of Lower School Caitlin McLennan, Michelle emphasized the importance of reframing setbacks as opportunities for personal growth. She explained that every child will make mistakes, whether it’s a poor report card, exhibiting bad sportsmanship or experimenting with underage drinking, and stressed that these moments, while challenging for both parents and children, provide a chance to build character when approached in the right way. She said children who are pushed to

Michelle Icard and Caitlin McLennan

succeed constantly may experience intense pressure that can be detrimental to their emotional well-being. However, allowing children to experience failure and setbacks can serve as a necessary stepping stone toward resilience. Michelle also talked about how failure can teach children valuable life skills, such as adaptability, self-ref lection and problem-solving. She emphasized that parents need to let their children learn from their setbacks, rather than constantly swooping in to fix things for them. As hard as it feels sometimes, parents need to give their children enough room to explore the world and to make mistakes. Then it’s the parent’s job to help them process those mistakes effectively. By creating a safe and supportive environment, parents can encourage their children to ref lect on their actions and learn from them. “You don’t have to create discomfort. The world is already cold,” she explained. “All you have to do is allow them out into it enough that they experience that themselves. And then your home is still the nice little greenhouse where things are safe and nurturing and loving. But when they tell you, ‘I’ve done something bad,’ or ‘something bad has happened to me,’ then your reaction matters. You have to create

that space for them to say, ‘Oh, I’m facing a setback. I’m experiencing a challenge, but I know that my home is a place where I can talk about this and it’s safe.’” She shared practical strategies for engaging in meaningful conversations with children, aimed at fostering selfawareness and accountability. Through these discussions, parents can empower their children to take ownership of their mistakes and develop the necessary skills to overcome future challenges. One recurring theme in Michelle’s talk was the silver lining that comes with setbacks. Rather than seeing failures as judgments on parenting, Michelle encouraged parents to recognize the potential for growth within each setback. She explained that when children experience setbacks and learn resilience, they develop perseverance and adaptability. “The feeling I want you to leave with tonight is relief,” Michelle said. “Whatever setback your child is facing … is not out of the ordinary, even if their behavior is unique or their circumstances are unique. Kids really need to experience something that causes them to have to get comfortable with discomfort. They need that to be good adults. And so I want you to take a little bit of comfort in that some good will come out of it.”

Michelle Icard’s book, “8 Setbacks That Can Make a Child a Success,” talks about getting comfortable with failure and then uses real life examples to look at “Eight Archetypal Failures.” 1. Failure to Follow the Rules: The Rebel 2. Failure to Take Care of Their Body: The Daredevil 3. Failure to Perform Well in School: The Misfit 4. Failure to Show Concern for Others: The Ego 5. Failure to Connect with Peers: The Loner 6. Failure to Handle Their Feelings: The Sensitive One 7. Failure to Get Along with Their Family: The Black Sheep 8. Failure to Believe in Oneself: The Benchwarmer

events C I TAT I O N

Sharon and John have been active members of our North Shore Country Day community for two decades and have served the school and community as devoted parents of five Raider children: Connor, Class of 2017, Ethan, Class of 2019, Chloe, Class of 2023, Elodie, Class of 2025 and Jude, Class of 2030. John’s role on the NSCD Board of Trustees was defined by insightful guidance, probing questions and a willingness to roll up his sleeves when there was a task to be done. He brought his educational foundation from UCLA and innovative finance expertise to his Board service and was an integral and engaged member of the finance John and Sharon Watrous (center) with previous Hannaford recipients Jay Bach, committee for six years. John expected fiscal Noreen Potempa, Susan Bondurant, and Mouse and Tom Doar responsibility from the Board and brought his considerable talents to bear on its work, helping to educate his colleagues and gently steer the conversations to the crux of every issue. John always asked the right question and whatever the topic, his answer was On the evening of October 17, North Shore children under the age 18 for 25 years invariably the same: whatever would best Country Day honored Sharon and John now and still have another 7 to go, for a serve the students. Watrous with the Foster Hannaford total of 32 years. They’ve cumulatively Sharon has served the school in countRecognition. paid for just under 50 years of NSCD less capacities over many years, beginning Sharon and John, whose five children tuition. As for all other members of the with her active volunteer involvement in attended NSCD over the span of two capital campaign committee, the number the Parents’ Association as grade chair, decades, have actively served the school 40 has loomed large (the goal is to raise lunch monitor, in the Hall Library and lower and community in many capacities. John’s $40 million). school social, to name just a few. Sharon’s role on the Board of Trustees included “The number of dear friends we have strong training from UCLA, The University insightful guidance on the finance commade over these years is innumerable,” of Chicago and University of Notre Dame mittee, and Sharon’s leadership of the cur- Sharon continued. “Together, John and and her deep business expertise as the rent capital campaign caps off years of I were enrolled in 34 years of public owner of Chalk Boutique always allowed her active volunteering with the Parents’ school—and never thought we would to provide thoughtful insights that improved Association and school community. They enroll our kids in a private school. Yet the outcomes and deepened the impacts of have thoughtfully participated in all of the here we are. And through all of this, there the school’s benefits and campaigns over school’s strategic fundraising efforts in is one common thread, one simple denom- the years. Most recently, Sharon has served partnership with the school’s leadership inator ties all these facts and numbers as a leader of our current capital campaign, teams. And while their children have together: North Shore Country Day.” North Shore Forevermore, helping to raise moved on and are no longer students at The Foster Hannaford Recognition more than $34 million to date in the the school, Sharon and John continue to program was established in 1985 to recog- school’s largest ever campaign. believe in and support North Shore. nize an active member of the NSCD comSharon and John have opened their “We’re humbled and truly honored,” munity for distinguished service to the hearts and their home countless times Sharon said as they accepted the award. school. Each year, they join previous to support the school and the extended “As we look around this room, we see many Hannaford recipients and other generous Raider community. They have thoughtfully people and families who deserve this donors for an intimate reception on camand generously participated in all of the honor even more than we do, and that’s pus where they are honored for their school’s strategic fundraising efforts with a real testament to the dedication and impact on the school community. minimal fanfare. investment we all have in NSCD, as well During their opening remarks, Board Sharon and John continue to believe in as gratitude for what this school and Chair Nichole Wilson and Head of School and support North Shore and many other community have done for all of us.” Tom Flemma thanked those in attendance worthy causes. We are eternally grateful for Sharon shared some “fun facts” and for the many ways they support the school their steadfast service to our school and the numbers about their family, to help philanthropically—Annual Giving, the greater Chicago community. With consisexplain why they care so much about the campaign and the Benefit—as well as tent dedication, authentic relationships and school: They had 5 children who went those who have designated the school in natural humility, John and Sharon embody through NSCD with a 13-year spread their estate plans and are members of the “Live and Serve,” and make our school and between them. They’ve been parenting Heritage Society. Then Tom presented the community kinder, better places. recognition plaque.

Sharon and John Watrous Receive Foster Hannaford Recognition

Tom Flemma, Sharon and John Watrous, and Nichole Wilson

Julie Ugarte and David Ogbolumani

Patti Bach, Cathy Kleiman Bartholomay ’79, Bill Bartholomay, Jay Bach and Charley Bell ’21

Nat Roberts, Mullery Doar ’06 and Laura Zung

John and Sharon Watrous

Tom Doar, Nancy Green Whiteman ’71 and Jeff Foreman ’80

Jennifer Stone ’82, Shrunali Rai and Susanna Ver Eecke

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Nichole Wilson, Noreen Potempa, Chethra Muthiah and Jeff Foreman ’80

events

Mullery Doar at the Little Raiders field hockey clinic

Little Raiders soccer clinic

Berkeley Orr ’29, Ming Hou ’29 and Sam Beukenkamp ’29

Raiders fans cheer on the volleyball team

Homecoming Reunion Weekend Unites Raiders Past and Present in a Spectacular Celebration Homecoming is that special time of the with their friends and families to reconschool’s motto, “Live and Serve.” The proyear when North Shore Country Day’s nect with former classmates, faculty and gram also recognized members of the Jay vibrant community comes together to cre- staff. The oldest alumnus in attendance Bach Iron Raiders Society—alumni who ate new memories and celebrate heartwas John Notz Jr. ’49, who came to support participated in 12 consecutive seasons of warming reunions. This year’s his brother Ted Notz ’53, who was acknowl- athletics during upper school. Homecoming Reunion Weekend was no edged Saturday as the 2023 Francis R. Throughout the weekend, guests also exception. About 200 NSCD alumni and Stanton ’27 Alumni Recognition recipient. had the chance to view the latest exhibimany more students, parents, faculty, staff, (See story, page 20.) tion in the John Almquist Gallery, a phofriends and neighbors returned to campus Various formal and informal reunion tography show in conjunction with this September 29 and 30 for a packed weekclass dinners and gatherings were held off year’s Franke Fund theme entitled “The end filled with nostalgia, laughter and the campus, and alumni and their guests were World Around Us.” As in past years, the joy of being together. invited to a Friday evening reception with Little Raiders field hockey clinic Saturday The festivities officially kicked off with current and former faculty and staff on morning gave children aged 4 and up an a student pep rally at the end of the school campus in the Hall Library, allowing foropportunity to learn the basics of the day on Friday. Then after school, the first mer classmates to gather and reminisce game from NSCD players and coaches; event was a fun run divided into three about their younger years. and new this year, a Little Raiders soccer heats: second through fifth grade, middle On Saturday, alumni, parents of clinic was added. school, and a community run open to all alumni and former faculty gathered in the NSCD varsity and junior varsity athletic ages. The Parents’ Association and the auditorium for a program that included an teams celebrated on-campus victories Athletic Council teamed up to put on a update from Head of School Tom Flemma, throughout the weekend, winning five and family-friendly carnival, complete with a panel discussion with current students tying one of their nine home games. The inf latables, a free Kona Ice truck and and the Stanton presentation to former varsity field hockey team defeated Lake music. Cheesie’s Pub & Grub and Rio Alumni Board member Ted Notz ’53, a law- Forest Academy (1-0). Varsity girls tennis Bamba Latin Kitchen also set up food yer whose impact has stretched far beyond and volleyball also brought home wins trucks in the upper school parking lot. the courtroom and into the lives of many. over the weekend (3-2 and 2-0, Alumni from as far away as Australia, The Stanton recognition is given each year respectively). Ecuador and Hawaii returned to campus to an alum whose life work exemplifies the

Courtney Williams Shelton ’88 and Annie Aggens ’88

Sophia Storino ’29 and Saisha Sharma ’29

Emi Comeau ’24, Maya Belabbes ’24, Alli Smith ’24, Leif Steele ’24, Izzy Henry ’25, Charlie Ver Eecke ’25 and Bo Stevenson ’24

Volleyball team

Lula Beukenkamp ’32

Margot Shaw ’33

Homecoming bonfire

Colin Wiercinski ’27 (lifted up) and the golf team

Daniel Becker ’24

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Isabel Roberts ’25 and Daisy Stone ’25

events

Smith Flickinger ’24 and Leif Steele ’24

Ashland, Missouri by Izzy Steach

Timothy Mah, Molly Phelan, Mariel Flickinger ’24, Carissa Schultz ’24, Leif Steele ’24, Aram Dombalagian ’24 and Geoff Flickinger ’24

La Luz, Oaxaca by Yanely Rodriguez ’27

Soccer Celebration and Parade The varsity boys soccer team was recognized by the school for its historic win at the IHSA Class 1A State Championship game on November 4. Unfortunately, the win came just as the entire upper school was heading out for Interim Week, so the celebration had to be delayed until the following week when the team returned to campus. That Wednesday, before Morning Ex, the entire school gathered to cheer on the Raiders as they paraded from the upper school to the auditorium. They team marched triumphantly through the Raiders arch, through a cloud of purple smoke and into the auditorium, where lower and middle schoolers continued to cheer. Before the team presented the championship trophy to Head of School Tom Flemma, Aram Dombalagian ’24, one of the senior captains and the team goalie, shared how the team truly left everything on the pitch throughout the entire postseason. “I am proud and honored to say that throughout the playoffs, there wasn’t a single one of us that asked ourselves, ‘What if…?’”

Castelejo Beach, Portugal by Maureen Wilde

Winter Celebration

On View in the Almquist Gallery

Before heading off for winter break, the lifers led students and faculty through a fun-filled Winter Celebration in the Mac Gym, full of dancing, music and holiday cheer. Although it’s gone by several names through the years, the Winter Celebration is one of NSCD’s oldest traditions, dating back to its founding in 1919. The program began with a festive sing-along of “Frosty the Snowman,” led by the music teachers. Then lifers Aram Dombalagian ’24 (Mrs. Claus), Geoff Flickinger ’24 (Snowman), Mariel Flickinger ’24 (Elf), Smith Flickinger ’24 (Gingerbread Man), Carissa Schultz ’24 (Elf), Leif Steele ’24 (Santa Claus), Bo Stevenson ’24 (Grinch) and Tessa Adamson-Tate ’24 ushered the various buddy pairs through all the traditional dances, highlighting Jewish, German, Mexican, South African and Irish traditions. The faculty and staff joined in the fun with a choreographed dance to Meghan Trainor's “Holidays,” featuring Earth, Wind and Fire. After the final few dances, the program closed with the traditional alumni, faculty and staff singalong of “Winter Wonderland.”

North Shore Country Day’s John Almquist Art Gallery featured two shows this fall, both highlighting the talent that lies right here within the NSCD community. The first, entitled “The World Around Us,” featured photographs taken by faculty, staff and students and opened just in time for Homecoming Reunion Weekend. In the modern age of smartphones, everyone is a photographer. In conjunction with this year’s Franke Fund theme “Our AWEsome Earth,” the photos showcased the world we live in—from tiny, beautiful moments to breathtaking landscapes, from remote countryside to cityscapes and nearly everything in between. The second was a student show featuring artworks from all three divisions, showcasing some of the amazing work students have done in class over the course of the first part of the school year, from silhouette self-portraits inspired by Bahamian artist Gio Swaby in the lower school, to skyline collages and animal paintings in the middle school, to altered, upcycled and embellished garments in the upper school. The show runs through mid-February. (See Visual Arts, page 34.)

facult y Professional Development Middle and Upper School Spanish Teacher Athletic Trainer Kristen Allen attended Schools Summer Institute at Syracuse Ana Baez, Middle School French Teacher the Far West Athletic Trainers Association University, followed by a Post-Institute tour of several nearby colleges and univerAnne-Marie Dall’Agata, Upper School Clinical Symposium in Kona, Hawaii. sities. She also attended the Michigan French Teacher Jeff Hutter, Upper School Upper School Math Teacher Brittany State University Counselor Conference Chinese Teacher Di Li, Upper School Cousins participated in the Loyola in November. Spanish Teacher Catalina Rincón-Bisbey, University Chicago Advanced Placement Upper School World Languages Upper School French Teacher Lynsey Summer Institute in July. Teacher and Penn Fellow Kristina Wollin-Casey and Middle School Chinese Development Operations Coordinator Lazdauskas took a French language teachTeacher Dorothy Wu attended the 2023 Karen Cunningham attended the Midwest ing course at Edu-Inter in Québec City ACTFL Convention and World Languages Meeting of the Minds Annual Giving and over the summer. Expo in Chicago in November. Advancement Services Conference. Di Li attended the Midwest Chinese Upper School Visual Arts Teacher Gerald Daye attended the Cullen J. Teachers Alliance fall meeting at Niles Francis Allende, Director of Equity, Davis Young Men of Color Symposium North High School. Inclusion and Community Engagement as both a participant and chaperone to a Lower School Reading and Learning Lauren Collins, Middle and Upper School group of students. Specialist Sharon Lieberman recently Spanish Teacher Ana Baez, Middle and Director of Admissions and Financial completed a course for word study called Upper School Music Teacher Timothy Mah, Aid Mullery Doar attended the Enrollment “Making it Fun: Games for Repetition and Upper School English Teacher Kim Diorio, Management Association Annual Review.” She also attended a number of and Digital Media & Design Teacher and Conference and New Directors’ Institute webinars through Everybody Reading Admissions Associate Gerald Daye in Las Vegas in September. Illinois. attended the National Association of Senior Associate Director of Jenna Loise attended the 9th Annual Independent Schools People of Color Development Tracie Frederick attended the CAST UDL Symposium in Denver. Conference in St. Louis. INDEX Advancement Conference. Lower School Counselor Montse Lower School Learning Specialists Amy Upper School Science Teacher Gina Lusaretta attended a training on Youth Luckey and Vimla Patel, and Lower School Gnoffo attended the Stanley King Institute Screen Dependence and Digital Health Math Specialist Amy Shuldiner attended a at Fountain Valley School in Colorado through Compass Health Center in three-day multisensory math workshop at Springs, Colorado, over the summer. September. Hyde Park Day School. Middle School History Teacher Lower School Music Teacher Molly Admissions Associates Kelsey Andersen Kirk Greer took a course entitled “The Phelan participated in the Smithsonian and Gerald Daye participated in a webinar Literary Capital of the West: Chicago Folkways World Music Pedagogy program, for new support staff by the Association of Writing before 1890” through the attending three days of virtual workshops Independent School Admission Newberry Library. with musicians, culture bearers and Professionals and another entitled Upper School English Teacher and educators from around the world. “Admissions Advantage: Mastering Tours English Department Head David Grossman Additionally, Molly attended a two-week & Open Houses with PeerPal.” in June attended the Belfer National course in Chicago through Vandercook Middle and Upper School Information Conference for Educators, a three-day University to get a Level 1 certification Literacy Librarian Jared Branahl and virtual conference for secondary school in Orff Schulwerk music pedagogy. Director of Library and Information teachers by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Over the summer, Middle School Literacy Jenna Loise in November attended Museum in Washington, D.C. He also Learning Specialist and EDI Coordinator “Artificial Intelligence and Discrimination: is serving on the Facing History and Christine Ritchey attended “Understanding A Talk on Algorithmic Justice.” Ourselves Teacher Leadership Team for and Managing Resistance to Racial Equity,” Lower School Science Teacher Annie the 2023-24 school year and participated a virtual workshop from the Equity Collins and Upper School English Teacher in a number of their webinars. Literacy Institute. Kim Diorio attended the Independent Lower School Spanish Teacher and HelpDesk Manager and Science Schools Association of the Central States EDI Coordinator Winder Holeman particiOlympiad Coach Christina Sirianni (ISACS) Annual Conference in Columbus, pated in a virtual workshop entitled participated in a Science Olympiad Build Ohio, and represented NSCD as “Lead “Conf lict Resolution Strategies for Brave Clinic over the summer. She also attended Learners,” a new initiative where faculty Classrooms” with Britt Hawthorne. JNUC 2023, the Jamf Nation User serve as liaisons between individual Upper School Science Teacher Natasha Conference, in Austin, Texas. schools and the larger ISACS network. Itkin participated in an AP Environmental Development Associate Maureen Wilde Lower School Visual Arts Teacher Science Summer Institute. attended the 2023 CASE Annual Giving Emily Culbert and Third Grade Teacher Physical Education Department Head Workshop in Chicago in October. Stephanie Mangum attended a four-day and PE Teacher Kyle Jones, along with PE Lynsey Wollin-Casey attended the Responsive Classroom training in Teachers Katia Adams, Sean Dermody and Student Diversity Leadership Conference Chicago over the summer. Sarena Marwah-Blanke, attended the as a White Awareness and Advocacy Group Middle School Humanities Teacher IAHPERD Illinois Convention. host and as a chaperone to a group of Elizabeth Kindig and Second Grade Teacher Director of Strategic Initiatives & students. Cristina Torres attended the Independent Special Projects and College Counselor Schools Experiential Education Network Kristen Kaczynski attended the Association Summer Institute in Lafayette, Colorado. of College Counselors in Independent a c o r n · Winter 2024 29

facult y Faculty Profile: Catalina Rincón-Bisbey U P P E R S C H O O L S PA N I S H T E A C H E R

and lyrics—with the Colombian composer Iván Meluk and developing a music video. My Spanish 3 class developed a Netf lix drama series about a teen who doesn’t want to do chores, but with support from a parent and therapist, they reach a good outcome. We watch all their episodes in Q. What’s your approach to teaching class, provide feedback and ask questions Spanish? about their creative process. The kids have a lot of fun watching their friends and A. In all my classes I target two things: practicing the language while self-ref lectproficiency and students’ anxiety when ing in Spanish. It is amazing how much they speak in public. Often students students’ proficiency can advance while don’t want to speak in Spanish because they don’t feel comfortable, and the feeling they are having fun, thinking critically Q . Did you always want to become a teacher? and getting ready for their future through can be so overwhelming for some that A. Actually, no. I never thought I was these projects. they become anxious. However, without going to become a high school teacher. speaking, students can’t gain proficiency Q. You’ve also been busy outside the I’ve always been an academic at heart, in the language. I discovered through trial classroom. Tell us a little about your work so I went into a Ph.D. program in Latin and error that exams don’t really foster with the Latinx affinity group. American Literature and Culture, and proficiency, and they don’t help students at the time my goal was to become a overcome their anxiety. So I began giving A. The Latinx affinity group became a college professor. But after teaching at reality during my first year at North students prompts with hypothetical Loyola University for a couple of years, Shore in 2018 with Andrea Gomez ’19, situations closer to their experiences I was ready for something else. Eventually, where they could use the language in ways Evelyn Nava ’19 and Carlo Castellanos ’18, I came to North Shore Country Day, and that are organic and authentic to them. It’s who were looking for a safe space to talk I loved the experience of teaching young important to bring content to a class that’s about their experiences as a minority in adults. I found purpose, connections, connected to the students’ authentic needs, the school. I can’t tell you enough how opportunities to develop my career, and fortunate I’ve been to be part of this wants and identities. I quickly realized truly genuine and caring people. project since the beginning. Through that connecting real-life experiences to this group, I’ve been able to witness how my teaching was not only productive in Q . What do you like most about teaching terms of proficiency, but also very fun for my Latinx students have strengthened high school? their identities and by doing so have the students and anxiety-decreasing. A. Three things: learning, relationships helped the school grow as a more Later on, I started developing projects as and impact. I believe there is a very inclusive community. summative assessments, and I ended up personal drive that motivates us to teach replacing all exams with them. Currently, Q. What is something that people might be and to be good at this art even when the all my classes are project-based. I’m surprised to know about you? profession doesn’t give you material capiconstantly creating new projects or tal. My personal motivation is that through updating old ones to make them more A. I love to draw and paint. I made all teaching I can continue learning. Every the paintings that are hanging in my relevant. These days, most of my projects day I learn how to improve my classes house. In high school, I was either going incorporate technology because it is and how to support my students academi- authentic to my students and helps them to study fine arts or literature in college. cally and emotionally. But teaching can’t I decided to go with literature because I prepare for the future. happen in isolation. Establishing strong found writing to be so powerful. I also Q. What are some examples of recent relationships with students is key, not only have a column in a Colombian cultural projects? because you are constantly interacting magazine called Revista Cronopio. In my with them but also because they help you A. Students in my AP class work on an column, “El cronopio del pueblo,” I mostly grow professionally. For example, I gauge Instagram project where they become analyze intercultural experiences and how my students are feeling in class by cultural products within a sociocultural inf luencers on a topic related to the arts. gathering their feedback at the end of each They post videos and comments, and and political context. My latest column is semester. This allows me to make adjustabout Shakira’s most recent song “El jefe.” create their own hashtags in Spanish. ments. It also sets high expectations for Overall, I think I am a very visual person Their creativity is truly mind-blowing. both the students and myself, and most The kids love this project as much as I do, and I always look for the aesthetic and importantly opens the door for a trusting creative value of whatever I do. The way and I learned that other high schoolers relationship where students are listened to and family members follow their accounts I organize my lessons, how I decorate and I receive meaningful feedback. and use my classroom, how I design my and comment on their posts in Spanish! Finally, I’m grateful for the impact my Canvas pages and even how I present I found this fascinating. My Special handouts respond to an aesthetic impulse. Topics class is creating a song—music 30 classes have on my students. I love seeing how they progress not only in their language skills but also in their critical thinking, global citizenship and communitybuilding skills when we approach current issues in a unique manner.

gi v ing and “To Kill a Mockingbird.” I loved French class and invited my teacher, Ms. Shiner, over to my house for a French dinner prepared with fellow classmates. Vincent Allison was one of the most animated and enthusiastic teachers, and it was obvious he loved teaching chorus and music. These are just a few of the teachers who had a profound influence on me as a student. All three of my children attended NSCD, and their teachers were also outstanding and dedicated to education. Lynda Wood, Lee Block and Patty Washburn were a few who had a lifelong positive influence on my children.

Heritage Society Profile: Pam Rahmann Conant ’75 One of the best experiences about being I included NSCDS in my planned giving because the school is very special to me. I attended three years in the upper school and graduated in 1975. I moved to the North Shore from out of state, had always attended public schools, and North Shore Country Day was the first time I felt supported and known by my teachers. Frank Wallace’s English class challenged and engaged me with Shakespeare and James Joyce, and I read novels like “Siddhartha,” “Native Son,” “A Tale of Two Cities,” “The Catcher in the Rye”

at North Shore is that it gives students a chance to take risks outside of their comfort zone. I never would have taken the chance to try out for a sports team or get up on the stage to sing during my years at public school, but those were requirements for graduation at NSCD, and it turned out I played basketball and volleyball, and performed in Gilbert and Sullivan’s “Iolanthe,” which was so much fun. Work Day, the buddy system and Morning Ex developed a sense of community life at school. Today, I am still

eager to try new things and develop new skills, even if they are out of my comfort zone. Supporting and engaging with my local community is something that brings me great joy. Whether it is volunteering, organizing or fundraising, I participate regularly and enthusiastically. I attribute this life-learning attitude to North Shore. The school has become more diverse in its student body, faculty and Board since 1975. The facilities have grown and improved immensely in the past 20 years. With my planned gift, I hope the school continues to support and improve the lives of its students through cultivating lifelong curiosity and a whole child approach to learning, hiring the best teachers, keeping a rigorous curriculum, and developing a sense of responsibility to the community. I think my gift is a good way to demonstrate and honor “Live and Serve” to the school that had a powerful influence on my life.

If you are interested in learning more about joining our Heritage Society, please contact Director of Development Molly Ingram McDowell ’80: 847.441.3316; mmcdowell@nscds.org.

Fall Connectathons The Alumni Match is back! For new donors or those who missed giving last fiscal year, gifts of $100 or more ($25 for classes 2008-2023) will be matched. Does your employer match gifts? Check out our website’s Corporate Matching search tool or ask your employer. We appreciate our dedicated Connectathon volunteers and a special thank you to those who joined us on campus!

Jim Meixner and Eric Currence

Parent, alumni, trustee and staff volunteers reached out to the NSCD community during our annual Fall Connectathons in November. They shared school updates, gathered class notes and raised funds for Annual Giving through phone calls, notes and emails. Overall, more than 300 connections were made with the NSCD community. Gifts and pledges ranged from $10 to $15,000, and we are grateful for your participation toward the goal of $1,583,314. You can join in supporting our Raiders by visiting www.nscds.org/give.Thank you!

Jay Bach Alda Benjamen Meera Bhatia Dan Bloedorn ’87 Tony Blumberg ’76 Allison Kaplan Bosco ’03 Rachel Cannon Diana Connolly Eric Currence Jim Davis ’64 Jim Deuble ’76 Lisa Doi ’09 Alison Fitzgerald Grace Flickinger ’12 Tom Flickinger Katie Florig Bridget Foley Jeff Foreman ’80

Leah Gordon Adrianna Grimsley Stephanie Henry Marcia McMillan Hines ’56 Manny Hodzic ’15 Elizabeth Ingram ’82 Katie Laabs Gaby Levi ’95 Jonah Levi-Paesky ’13 Andre Lodree ’96 Jim Meixner Susan Millner Chethra Muthiah Firouz Niazi ’17 Nat Roberts Sarah Geist Rosen ’86 Rebecca Andreou Sabri ’86 Christina Self Jennifer Shreve

Lucy Sievers ’80 Tina Sprague Jennifer Stone ’82 Claire Storino Amanda Sundt Dan Sundt Katie Todd ’96 Julie Ugarte Claire Weingarden Larry Williams ’87 Diane Williams Nichole Wilson Vera Xu Anne Hines Young ’77 Lei Zhou

a c o r n · Winter 2024

c a mpa ign updat e

The Next Phase of North Shore Forevermore THE CAMPAIGN FOR NORTH SHORE COUNTRY DAY

W E L A U N C H E D the North Shore campaign to a successful conclusion. We Forevermore campaign to invest in the people, invite everyone in our community to join program, place and perpetuity that make those who have already shown their support, North Shore Country Day a school that making a difference for current and future changes lives and prepares our students to generations of Raiders. impact the world. We are proud to say that We would like to acknowledge the dedicated we have raised more than 89% of the $40 individuals who have voluntarily led this million goal in gifts and pledges, making it campaign, whose names are listed at the the largest campaign in the school’s 105end of this article. Among them are current year history. The campaign has four areas Board Chair Nichole Wilson; her predecessor, of focus: People (student scholarship and Jeff Foreman ’80, who served as Board faculty professional development), Program chair from 2020-2022; and Molly Shotwell (STEM—science, technology, engineering Oelerich ’87, Board chair from 2017-2020. and math; skills curriculum; equity and inclusion; health and wellness), Place These three leaders of our Board have seen (transformation of the Mac Gym and Hall firsthand the impact of strong financial Library, including the Live+Serve Lab) and support from alumni, parents, faculty and Perpetuity (growing the school’s endowment). staff, and friends. Their voluntary leadership This comprehensive campaign also includes serves as an inspiration to fellow Board Annual Giving, which provides critical funding members, parents and alumni, encouraging for the school’s daily operations in support them to put the school’s “Live and Serve” of students and teachers. motto into practice by actively participating in the school’s fundraising efforts. So far, we’ve transformed the Hall Library and built the Live+Serve Lab, a missionThey share their perspectives on their centered makerspace where students can commitment to leading and bringing this collaborate, learn and create. We’ve directed campaign to a successful close. more than $6 million in gifts and bequests In your role as Board Chair, how has the to the endowment to support student Board’s commitment to this campaign scholarships, programming and to ensure led us to raising the most funds in the the long-term financial strength of the school. school’s history? We’ve increased Annual Giving participation and funds raised, providing immediate Nichole: For the past two years, one of our operating support. And our work is not strategic objectives has been to “increase yet done. the efficiency, effectiveness and engagement of the NSCD Board of Trustees.” A key We recently launched the next exciting element of engagement is the leadership phase of our campaign, Healthy Futures, and support of the school’s fundraising focused on reimagining the Mac Gym and efforts. In partnership with the development enhancing our health and wellness office, our trustees who lead the campaign programming. As we begin construction on committee launched a highly successful the project, we are thrilled to see how this initiative, in which they actively engaged improved athletics and wellness center every Board member and encouraged a will transform major elements of our JK-12 leadership gift to the school. Additionally, our physical fitness, wellness and athletic trustees are eager to share their excitement programs and impact every member of about giving and consistently reach out to our community. families in our NSCD community to inspire The Board of Trustees, in partnership with and motivate them to support our school. school administration, is focused on raising Jeff: Our Board has embraced the vision of the remaining funds needed to bring our the campaign to strengthen multiple aspects of the school’s mission: refining, improving 32

and focusing on the STEM program and development of a robust wellness program; imagining and sharing the excitement with the NSCD community of a remade Mac Gym; and the Board’s strong belief in bolstering the long-term financial stability of the school by recognizing and raising funds to grow our endowment. Molly: The root of any campaign begins with the Board and their belief in the cause. Our Board was committed philosophically and financially to this endeavor from the outset. Taking that message to our donors has been of utmost importance. We have set our sights high and look forward to celebrating our success! What compels you to support, lead and serve our school? Nichole: I wholeheartedly believe in NSCD’s mission to prepare students to “think critically, communicate effectively and engage fully in their intellectual growth and personal development,” and I often find myself in awe of the highly intentional and expert way the faculty and staff deliver against this mission. Every day, I see my children and their peers thriving in their school environment and living rich academic, athletic and artistic lives. I am honored to serve and support NSCD to help ensure that every student has the ability to experience all this community has to offer for many years to come. Jeff: My NSCD experience has helped me in so

many ways. Most importantly, it has provided lifelong benefits that neither my parents nor I could have anticipated when I attended school. The well-rounded, whole-person education/ experience at NSCD has prepared me to recognize and seize opportunities that have positively impacted my life professionally and personally since graduation 43 years ago! In addition, my closest friends in the world are people I met while at NSCD starting in 1969! Molly: I had the benefit of a North Shore education so know its value firsthand. My children, third-generation students, are now benefactors of a North Shore education. I am

Nichole Wilson

Jeff Foreman ’80

Molly Shotwell Oelerich ’87

Lower school physical education in the Mac Gym: George Hulick ’34

Boys basketball: Christian Tao ’29

Girls volleyball: Sophia Medvin ’25, Emi Comeau ’24 and Tessa Adamson-Tate ’24

passionate about our mission and developing well-rounded, thoughtful people. For me, serving the school is the best and easiest way to give back. How will this campaign impact our current students and faculty, as well as future generations? Nichole: The Healthy Futures campaign is an

absolute game changer. NSCD has a long history of meeting the constantly changing and growing needs of our students. The evolution of the Mac Gym is the next phase in our development as an institution and our commitment to health and wellness. I could not be more excited about how the campaign will catalyze people, program and community now and in the future. Jeff: The campaign is foundational in order

for school to continue to develop and evolve the “progressive education” that is woven into the fabric of NSCD while delivering its core mission “to develop self-confident, ethical citizens of the world who embody our motto, ‘Live and Serve.’” The three areas mentioned above are all critical elements to the continuing evolution of NSCD.

This will support operations, scholarships and faculty development. Our campus facilities will provide a visual reminder of the impact—an updated, modern library and a first-class wellness center and Mac Gym renovation. Both of those facilities serve our JK-12 population each and every day. How can everyone in our community support and serve this campaign? Nichole: Engage. Be inspired. Give. Your contribution is important, and your community needs you. Jeff: Recognize the lifelong value of the

NSCD experience and think about how the campaign will sustain the school not only for your child, you as an alumni or parent of alumni, but for those in the future who will benefit from support of this campaign. The benefits of an NSCD experience are largely intangible and difficult to quantify, but the intangibles in life are often the most “valuable.”

Molly: This campaign is meant to be inclusive—no gift is too big or too small! We simply ask that people give in a way that is meaningful. Many alums have Molly: This campaign will have a multitude of graciously donated their time to solicit impacts. The endowment, our backbone, has classmates as their way of “giving back.” increased via the generosity of many donors. It will take our entire community to make this campaign successful.

W E A R E T H A N K F U L for those who have

been overwhelmingly positive in response to our call for support of the campaign, including those who have made provisions to the school in their estate plans, joining other members of our Heritage Society. We are grateful to our dedicated campaign volunteers led by Honorary Chair Tom Flickinger and the Campaign Leadership Team: Sharon Watrous, Christina Self, Molly Shotwell Oelerich ’87, Jennifer Stone ’82 and Susanna Ver Eecke, in partnership with Head of School Tom Flemma; Campaign Cabinet members: Cathy Kleiman Bartholomay ’79, Michael Carter, Jeff Foreman ’80, Stephanie Henry, Duff Stevenson, Nichole Wilson and Hillary Wirtz ’97; Strategic Advisors: Susan Bondurant, Tom Doar and Bert Getz Jr.; and former Campaign Cabinet members: Michael Canmann, Susan Canmann, Meredith Carter, Katie Freiburger, Anne Leonetti, Laura Heinz Peters ’89 and Marc Peters ’82, with administrative support from Director of Development Molly Ingram McDowell ’80, Campaign Assistant Kenleigh Howard and Former Campaign Assistant Troy Chirico.

Scan the QR code to learn more about our plans and to invest in Healthy Futures for our students.

a c o r n · Winter 2024

v isua l a rt

Alexander Herzog ’33

Myles Sanders ’32 Reese Meyers ’26

Sahil Tarsney ’29

Marina Bullock-Puzon ’26

Nora Pearson ’27 Evelyn Smirl ’28

Lexi Shultz ’26

Shirley Ni ’27 Vivian Florig ’30

Anna Dadakis’ 35

Eli Gallaga ’28 Aarav Bedi ’34

a c o r n · Winter 2024

perfor ming a rt s Winter Play: ‘Tater Tots Are Friends Too’ The Duff Players are a troupe of talented upper schoolers tasked with taking stories written by NSCD lower school students and adapting them for the stage. The stories were told through movement, music, costumes, props and much more. The cast worked on the art of storytelling and delved into the imagination and heart of each piece. The upper school crew worked on creating an environment where truly anything could happen and be created in an instant, visually setting the stage for success. During the final performance, held during the school day, lower schoolers were beyond excited to see their stories come to life.

All School Chorus Concert The upper, middle and lower school choruses came together for the annual winter chorus concert, shortly before the break. The lower school chorus, directed by Lower School Music Teacher Molly Phelan, opened with a piece by a Hawaiian composer Herb Mahelona called “E nana kakou” about listening to the local birds. Students began by creating a “rainstorm” with body percussion. Then Middle and Upper School Music Teacher Timothy Mah joined on piano, followed by Aramis Thai-Garcia ’24 on flute, whose part was actually transcribed bird calls. The middle and upper school choruses, under Tim’s leadership, sang a variety of music, ranging from traditional choral pieces to seasonal classics to more contemporary pieces like “Work Song,” by Hozier. All three groups then closed out the concert with a beautiful rendition of “A Candle is a Symbol.”

Fall Play: Take 10! Festival For the second year in a row, the annual upper school Take 10! Play Festival shifted to the fall from the spring—likely a permanent change, according to Performing Arts Department Head Julia Macholl, who teaches middle and upper school theater. Since the festival is born out of the upper school directing class, rehearsals occur during the day, Julia explained, which allows students who participate in fall sports to also participate in the production.

All School Chorus Concert

“We encourage students to both play a sport and be in a production if they want to, but that was a big challenge programmatically,” she said. “Especially since every freshman is required to play a fall sport and with Homecoming. So having time to rehearse during the day is huge.” (See story, page 10.) Students in Julia’s directing studio class spent a great deal of time writing 10-minute plays based on personal experience, observations, media events or just pure creativity. They then assumed the role of producer/director by auditioning their peers, creating a concept, blocking their actors and rehearsing. Auditions are open to any upper school student, not just those in the class. This year, the festival with back-to-back performances on Monday, October 16, involved 44 students and featured seven plays: “Sleepover!!!” directed by Deming Gantz ’26; “Timmy’s Choice,” directed by Cooper Erwin ’26; “Clash of Stands,” directed by Danny Sundt ’26; “Buffalo Wild Wings,” directed by Jack Shreve ’25; “You Ladies Alright?” directed by Reed Metzler ’25; “Vroom Vroom,” directed by Alex Knight ’26; and “The Bank Robbery,” directed by Tarik Awada ’26.

Lower School Holiday Program The theme for this year’s program was “Better Together,” a celebration of the diversity of the lower school population and inspired by conversations about cooperation and teamwork in music class. Lower School Music Teacher Molly Phelan also mentioned students have been discovering connections to this year’s Franke Fund theme, “Our AWEsome Earth.” “All of my classes began their concert preparation with a reflective conversation about things in our school and in the world that work better together and then used that conversation to introduce their holiday program piece and discuss how it connected to our theme,” Molly explained. The program included vocal and instrumental performances, dance and culminated with the entire lower school joining onstage to sing Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World,” a fitting combination of both themes.

Tater Tots Are Friends Too: Teddy Cole ’27 and Ashley Garcia ’24

Josephine O’Brien ’27

Take 10! Margaret Fitzgerald ’26, Ellie Rose Horowitz ’26, Brianna Holmberg ’26 and Raina Khanna ’26

Tater Tots Are Friends Too

Oliver Powell ’26, Nikash Bawa ’27 and Avalon Felty ’26

Valeria Paramo ’27 and Austin Huang ’26

Reese Meyers ’26

Max Flemma ’26 and Christopher Essig ’26

Lower School Holiday Program: Luke George Kelly ’35, Ainsley Frederick ’35,

Nayomi Melton ’31, Finley Todd ’31, Delilah Whiteley ’31,

Janie Xi ’35, Max Ryder ’35 and Lydia Sanchez-Andersen ’35

Caroline Gordon ’31 and Annie Aiston ’31

at hle t ics Season Highlights C R O S S C O U N T R Y : Fall 2023 was a record-setting season for

G I R L S T E N N I S : This group had its strongest season since

the boys team. For the second time in NSCD history, two boys (Owen Keyt ’24 and Aramis Thai-Garcia ’24) earned allconference by finishing in the top 10 at the Independent School League (ISL) conference meet. The team continued on to finish second at the regional meet and seventh at the sectional finals—the highest finishes for an NSCD boys cross country team ever. Owen and Aramis also qualified for state, another first, finishing 91st and 121st respectively out of 258 runners.

2018. In regular season conference play and the ISL conference tournament, the girls defeated every independent school opponent except for one. They even beat the team that eventually went on to win the state tournament. Kate Henry ’24 at singles and our top doubles team, Anna Beth Woolf ’24 and Charlotte Graham ’25, represented NSCD at the state tournament, and our doubles team advanced further at state than any other doubles team in NSCD history.

F I E L D H O C K E Y : This team had one of the youngest rosters in

years, with only one senior, Avery Erwin ’24. That did not stop them from having a successful season, finishing third in the ISL and having a six-game winning streak during the middle of the season. With a solid core of returning players and a strong incoming class, we are looking forward to watching the team build off of this year’s success for years to come.

Fall 2023 Recognition

G O L F : The boys team won its regional and sectional

G O L F : First Team All-Conference Max Greenberg Winnick ’24 and

championships, and finished seventh in the state tournament. This was NSCD’s eighth regional boys golf title, its fifth sectional title and the 10th time the team advanced to the state championship (the fifth year straight). There was also great play on the girls side with Zhilin Chen ’27 finishing in the top five at conference and advancing out of the regional to the sectional tournament. Max Greenberg Winnick ’24 was among the 20 best golfers in the IHSA Class 1A tournament, finishing 17th at state. B OY S S O C C E R : This was the greatest boys soccer season in

NSCD history. The boys swept the postseason, winning the ISL, regional, sectional and super-sectional championship games. And for the first time in school history, the team claimed the title of IHSA Class 1A Boys Soccer State Champions. This incredible achievement was a testament to their skill, teamwork and dedication throughout the season, and the entire school community was incredibly proud of their accomplishment.

C R O S S C O U N T R Y : First Team All-Conference Owen Keyt ’24 and

Aramis Thai-Garcia ’24 F I E L D H O C K E Y : First Team All-Conference Avery Erwin ’24,

Izzy Greenstein ’26, Dixie Oelerich ’26 and Daisy Stone ’25

Zhilin Chen ’27 S O C C E R : First Team All Conference Daniel Becker ’24,

Aram Dombalagian ’24, Henry Gallun ’25 and Leif Steele ’24; Second Team All Conference Smith Flickinger ’24 and Luke Hansen ’25; ISL Player of the Year Leif Steele; ISL Goalkeeper of the Year Aram Dombalagian; All-Sectional All-Academic Leif Steele; All-Sectional Sportsmanship Award Ricardo Gonzalez ’24; All-Sectional Daniel Becker, Aram Dombalagian and Leif Steele T E N N I S : All-Conference First Team Maddie Wilson ’25,

Callie Zhao ’26; All-Conference Honorable Mention Charlotte Graham ’25, Abby Hardy ’27, Izzy Henry ’25 and Annabeth Woolf ’24; All-State Charlotte Graham and Annabeth Woolf V O L L E Y B A L L : All-Conference Honorable Mention

Emi Comeau ’24

G I R L S V O L L E Y B A L L : We had a senior-dominated varsity

lineup who had big wins on their biggest days: Senior Night, Dig Pink and Homecoming. This team is known for its positive and enthusiastic team spirit. Numbers continue to be strong in the middle and upper school programs, indicating a very healthy future.

Cross country team

Coaches Recognition S O C C E R : ISL Coaching Staff of the Year Kyle Jones, Mike Pilger,

Daniel Radeljic and Laith Zaibel; State Boys Soccer Coach of the Year for Private and Parochial Schools Kyle Jones

Owen Keyt ’24

Aramis Thai-Garcia ’24

Field hockey team

Noah Youderian ’24, Nolan Darnieder ’25, Max Greenberg Winnick ’24, Toren Strauss ’24, Tucker Sichol ’26 and Jonathan Wiggins ’25

Girls volleyball team

Avery Erwin ’24

Ashby Semple ’25

Tessa Adamson-Tate ’24

Girls Tennis Senior Night: Kate Henry, Anna Beth Woolf, Ella Cesca, Tommy Kalotis, Mariel Flickinger, Maddy Boneck and Katherine Jeske

Aram Dombalagian ’24

Boys soccer IHSA Class 1A State Championship game

a c o r n · Winter 2024

Tommy Kalotis ’24

pho t os from our pa s t “A picture is worth a thousand words” and tells an important and interesting story. If you can identify any of these photos or tell us a story about them, please contact Archivist Kenleigh Howard, 310 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, IL 60093, khoward@nscds.org or call her at 847.881.8844.

a c o r n · Winter 2024

a lumni connec t ions Homecoming Reunions Alumni, parents of alumni and former faculty returned to reconnect and celebrate during Homecoming Reunion Weekend. Reunion classes ending in 3 and 8 were celebrated this year, both on and off campus, and the class of 1973 celebrated its 50th reunion. Alumni enjoyed on-campus events, school tours, an art exhibition in the John Almquist Gallery, student games, and their special reunion class dinners and gatherings.

New York Regional Gathering Thank you to everyone who joined us at Sardi’s in New York City for our Alumni Regional Gathering and to those who extended their evening to see “The Cottage” on Broadway. It was a wonderful evening of Raider connections, including an update from Head of School Tom Flemma. A special thank you to “The Cottage” cast member Alex Moffat ’00 for organizing a picture with the cast.

W I N T E R C E L E B R AT I O N G AT H E R I N G . Benji Leonetti ’23,

Evan Fortier ’23, Buckley Oelerich ’23 and Tae Won Lillig ’23

Winter Celebration Gathering Young Alumni in the Classes of 2020-2023 as well as former faculty and staff joined us on campus for refreshments and to catch up with students, faculty and other alumni before heading to the Winter Celebration. It’s a valued tradition having our newest young alumni back in the halls of NSCD sharing everything they have been up to since graduating. For the first time this year, we also invited former faculty and staff to join us for this tradition, and it was lovely to see so many familiar faces.

Lynsey Wollin-Casey, Michael Querio and Dale Block

N E W YO R K . Front row Annsley McKinney ’08, Cassandra Hiland, Nancy Jarchow, Bill McDowell, Molly Ingram McDowell ’80, Rob Angert ’89, Tom Flemma, Emily Ingram, Bruce Jarchow ’66, Charlie Ingram ’75, Bert Jarchow ’07 and Danny Lowinger ’08; Back row The cast of “The Cottage,” 42 holding a photo of Alex Moffat ’00.

Lola Adebiyi ’21, Lynsey Wollin-Casey and Charley Bell ’21

Simon Luglio ’25, Thatcher Smith ’25, Smith Flickinger ’24, Ricardo Gonzalez ’24, Kyle Banner ’24, Walter Luglio ’23, Kai Zavala ’25 and Teddy Gallun ’23

Alma Fitzgerald ’22, Patrick Fitzgerald ’21 and Margaret Fitzgerald ’26

Jane Scullion ’21, Lucas Leschynski ’21, Gavin Schneider ’21 and Patrick Fitzgerald ’21

N E W YO R K . Vernon James ’76 and Charlie Ingram ’75

N E W YO R K . Jim, Pat and Connor Murphy

N E W YO R K . Lew Davis and Eileen Donoghue

Benjie de la Fuente ’93, Linda Gibson Kiracibasi and Alexandra Roginsky ’93

N E W YO R K . Bert Jarchow ’07, Ben Kegan ’05,aJen c o Pearce, r n · Danny WinterLowinger 2024 ’08, 43 Annsley McKinney ’08, Leigh Cross ’01 and Brian Johnson

David Plimpton ’88, Ben Armstrong, Louisa Clinch Erickson ’88, Jason Erickson, Courtney Williams Shelton ’88, Eric Jacobson ’88 and Carolyn Kerr Armstrong ’88

C L A S S O F 1 9 8 8 . Carolyn Kerr Armstrong, Annie Aggens,

Eric Jacobson, Courtney Willams Shelton, Brad Savage and Brian Dole Names

C L A S S O F 1 9 6 3 . Anne Coulter Tobey, Heather Ramsey Campbell, Jeannie Lea Scully, George Shultz and Kathy Culbertson Nothnagel

C L A S S O F 2 0 1 8 . Joey Buterbaugh, Quigg Veach, Jack Mangel, Owen Hiland, Thomas McDowell, Trevor Yamada and Carlo Castellanos

CLASS OF 1983: Chris Charnas, John Park, Reed Snyder, David Kozlov, Dave DeWoskin, Alan Blumberg, John Krohn, Jamie Knupp. On the44 stairs. Pam Ferdinand, Seemi Ghazi, Budge Cooper, Jane Dettmers Bakey, Leslie Goldberger, Alison Rosen, Margie Berman Rambusch, Caroline Kullberg Godellas, Carol Janson Bond, Laura Hirschtritt Ben-Simon, Jon Schwarz, Jeremy Goldberger and Peter Karmin.

C L A S S O F 1 9 7 3 . Laura Pettibone Wright, Francis Stanton, C L A S S O F 2 0 0 3 . Danny Shatz, Ross Blumenfeld, Andrew Hill,

Penny Peterson, Jim Montague, Meri-Beth Bird, Steve Cragg, Laura McCormick and Vicki Leslie, with former faculty Lew Davis

Henry Webster, Allison Kaplan Bosco and Elizabeth Brantley Lau

C L A S S O F 1 9 7 3 . David Hubbard, David Webster, Meri-Beth Bird, Bill Hines, Vicki Leslie, Laura Pettibone Wright, Jim Montegue, Laura McCormick, Steve Cragg and Francis Stanton

Joel Parshall ’68, Jay Bach and Denny McPhee ’68

C L A S S O F 2 0 0 3 . Andrew Hill, Carly Gerstman, Michael Halper, Henry Webster,

Emily Denesha, Budge Cooper ’83 and Sharon Dole

Danny Shatz, Ross Blumenfeld, Elizabeth Brantley Lau and Allison Kaplan Bosco

Cindy Hooper with members of the Class of 2018: Trevor Yamada, Owen Hiland, Quigg Veach and Jack Mangel

C L A S S O F 1 9 8 3 . Caroline Kullberg Godellas, Reed Snyder, Seemi Ghazi, Jamie Knupp, Caroline Janson Bond, Jeremy Goldberger, Budge Cooper, Laura Hirschritt Ben-Shimon, Leslie Gordon Goldberger, Jon Schwarz, Alison Rosen, John Khron, Alan Blumberg, a c o r n · Winter 2024 45 Margie Berman Rambusch and Chris Charnas

a lumni connec t ions 2023-2024 Children and Grandchildren of Alumni North Shore Country Day is proud of our alumni connections, especially those current students, pictured here, whose parents and grandparents attended the school.

FIRST ROW: SK Mila Gibson Lusarreta (Nico Gibson ’06), Grade 1 Kayleigh Weathers (Ashleigh Palmer Weathers ’04), Lydia Sanchez-Andersen (Kelsey Andersen ’06), Grade 2 Xander Athas (Chip Herndon ’72), Olivia Gent (Jenny Gonzalez-Gent ’98), Marissa Sanchez-Andersen (Kelsey Andersen ’06), Levi Todd (Katie Todd ’96), Riley Todd (Katie Todd ’96) SECOND ROW: Grade 3 Aidan Gent (Jenny Gonzalez-Gent ’98), Grade 4 Walter Weathers (Ashleigh Palmer Weathers ’04), Grade 5 Greyson Gent (Jenny Gonzalez-Gent ’98), Shahaan Ghazi (Rashid Ghazi ’85), Finley Todd (Katie Todd ’96), Grade 6 Charlotte Cole (Elizabeth Graettinger ’94), William Levi (Gaby Levi ’95), Payne Wood (Andrew Wood ’90) THIRD ROW: Grade 8 Margot Ake (Bill Ake ’88), Abigail Tilton-Kohl ’28 (Stephen Kohl ’75), Nina Tilton-Kohl ’28 (Stephen Kohl ’75), Bronwyn Wood (Andrew Wood ’90), Grade 9 Teddy Cole (Elizabeth Graettinger ’94), Benjamin Levi (Gaby Levi ’95), Elizabeth Tilton-Kohl ’27 (Stephen Kohl ’75), Devin Todd (Katie Todd ’96) FOURTH ROW: Grade 10 Stephanie DeWoskin (Paul DeWoskin ’86), Dixie Oelerich (Cy ’89 and Molly Shotwell Oelerich ’87), Oliver Powell (Kristen Moffat Powell ’86), Zade Schatz (Clare Pinkert ’93), Thomas Scott (Hilary Bishop Scott ’96), FIFTH ROW: Grade 11 Razaan Ghazi (Rashid Ghazi ’85), Daisy Stone (Jennifer Stone ’82), Jonathan Wiggins (Betty Fisher Wiggins ’93), Grade 12 Gabriel Rosen (Sarah Geist Rosen ’86)

SAVE THE DATES Homecoming & Reunion Weekend SEPTEMBER 27-28

Classes celebrating special reunions: 1949, 1954, 1959, 1964, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009, 2014, 2019 If you are interested in joining your reunion planning committee, contact Ashleigh Palmer Weathers ’04 at aweathers@nscds.org or 847.881.8848.

Call for Stanton Recipients The Stanton recognition is given to alumni whose lives exemplify the school’s motto, “Live and Serve.” If you would like to recommend an NSCD alum to receive this distinguished honor, please contact Ashleigh Palmer Weathers ’04 at aweathers@nscds.org or 847.881.8848.

Live and Serve Day MAY 18, 2024

Join us on this special day of community service, where alumni of North Shore Country Day come together to make a positive impact on our community. Refreshments will be provided, and a sense of fulfillment is guaranteed.

Location: Feed My Starving Children 742 E Park Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048 (More information to come) Non-Local alumni, we encourage you to participate too! Engage in various community service projects, from environmental initiatives to supporting local charities and educational programs. It’s a day to reconnect, give back and make a difference! Send photos of your service project to Ashleigh Palmer Weathers ’04 at aweathers@nscds.org

a c o r n · Winter 2024

cl a ss notes

1940s The Bartholomay family and friends gathered in Florida to celebrate the 100th birthday of Judy Adams Bartholomay ’41. Judy is the matriarch of a long line of Raiders! Georgia Elmes Welles ’48 passed away

peacefully at her Bowling Green, Ohio, home on August 3, 2023. Not only was she a very connected alumna, she also had two great-grandchildren attend North Shore Country Day, and her granddaughter Berkley Wellstein worked at NSCD for more than a decade, in college counseling and as a lower school teacher. After graduating from NSCD, Georgia attended Vassar College and always maintained a deep passion for learning, in addition to many other endeavors, such as family, outdoor pursuits, conservation and art. In each of these areas she united leadership with philanthropy to leave a lasting legacy. To family, Georgia was known as Mom, Granny and GG. She served as the focal point for many get-togethers, especially at the central gathering place of her extended family on the North Channel of Lake Huron in Ontario, Canada. Family games, skits and water activities abound there in the beautiful natural setting that gave inspiration to the Cricket Island Foundation, founded by Georgia and her late husband, David. Georgia also established the Granny Fund with the Greater Toledo Community Foundation to allow for individual philanthropic causes that resonated with each child. After graduating from NSCD, Georgia attended Vassar College and knew well the value of high quality education. Her children attended Maumee Valley Country

1980s Day School, where she served as president of board of trustees, interim head of school and endowment board trustee. She was honored as a trustee emerita and with the Georgia Welles Head of School Chair for her continuous leadership. Georgia had an unwavering love for wildlife, nature and conservation. She lived a fully engaged, curious and passionate life, always eager to learn and contribute. She was a “force of nature” and will be dearly missed.

Members of the Class of 1980 got together Thanksgiving weekend, hosted by Jeff Foreman ’80. Their invitation remains open to any classmates traveling to Chicago to let them know and they’ll get a group together!

1950s

news of a recital with the legendary mezzo-soprano Vivica Genaux on January 17, 2024, in Paris, featuring music by Barbara Strozzi, Bernardo Storace, Benedetto Ferrari and Georg Friedrich Händel.

Joyce Glasser ’55 shares, in memory

of the late Jim Glasser ’51: “My dear brother was raised by our parents with a devotion to scholarliness, graciousness and living to serve. Country Day nurtured their dream for him.” Susie Brew Schreiber ’58 shares that

her grandson Duncan J. Hacker, son of her daughter Laura Schreiber Hacker ’84, had his first child, Rosie A. Hacker, properly outfitted with a Raider pennant to celebrate Reunion weekend!

1970s Stephen Geering ’70 shares, “With no

promotion, my cover of the Beatles song, ‘In My Life,’ hit No. 1 in California on the national charts. THANKS to all in Cali and across the nation for listening!” Susan Severson Barbier ’71, Doug Severson ’69 and Kathy Severson Menteer ’67 visited campus for a tour. Nancy Green Whiteman ’71 shared a lovely

dinner with several alumni. Susan Colbert Spofford ’72 writes, “Love

living near the ‘sponge docks.’ Yes, that’s where your sponges come from!”

Mark Friedman ’81 visited with Jory Vinikour ’81 after Jory’s concert at Ravinia

in September. Jory is recognized as one of the world’s outstanding harpsichordists. Jory M. Vinikour ’81 is very proud to share

Dana Burnell ’82 has published a book

called “The Tame Man.” Maxine Lechter Comisky ’84 and her

husband saw Alex Moffat ’00 in The Cottage in New York. She says, “it is hilarious, and Alex steals the show. He is incredibly talented!” Nathalie Ames ’85 had lunch with her

former NSCD field hockey coach Amy Deuble in Evergreen, Colorado, on her way home to Mesa, Colorado. “Great seeing Amy again!” she said. Nathalie played field hockey, basketball and softball in middle school and through her freshman year of high school. Amy says she was lucky to have her on the team when she was coach! Joel de la Fuente ’87 portrayed Losang in

AMC’s The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. The show premiered on September 10, 2023, and consists of six episodes.

1990s Alexandra Roginsky Tsesis ’93 shares,

“I am living in Maryland, working as a trauma and acute care surgeon at John Strauss ’77 shares, “I am now Johns Hopkins. I enjoy being close to the president of the Canton Jewish Washington, DC. I am also in the Army Community Federation. Also, last year Reserve as a surgeon, and I find serving I remarried!” my country very meaningful. With my To honor the life of Susan Kjellenberg ’77, civilian job, military training and traveling her family and classmates are asking that to see my children in college and Chicago family, life is very full. I had the opportudonations can be made to North Shore Country Day in Suzanne’s memory. Those nity to drive by NSCD this summer while funds will be directed toward the school’s visiting Chicago, and it brought back many memories.” health and wellness programs.

Lucy Bartholomay ’69 and Judy Adams Bartholomay ’41

Mark Friedman ’81 and Jory Vinikour ’81

Susie Brew Schreiber ’58 with her great granddaughter, Rosie A. Hacker

Susan Severson Barbier ’71, Doug Severson ’69 and Kathy Severson Menteer ’67

Andy McLeod, Kim Whiteman McLeod ’74, Juli Roberts Blunt, Donald Whiteman ’70, Nancy Green Whiteman ’71; Seated: Joan Whiteman and John Roberts ’49

C L A S S O F 1 9 8 0 . Front Row: Courtney Spore Clift, Liz Miller Leonard, Jeannie Goldblatt,

Howard Goldblatt, Liz Schwarz, Molly Ingram McDowell Back Row: Nick Clift, Miller Bransfield, Stephanie Bransfield, Jeff Foreman and Hugo, Eric Britton, Bill McDowell

Nathalie Ames ’85 and Amy Deuble

cl a ss notes

Alex Moffat ’00 and Maxine Lechter Comisky ’84

Kelly Patton Krier ’06 and Caroline Rooney

Julia Doyle ’18, Margaret Chandler ’18 and Jessica Hourihane ’18

Laura Chadwick ’98 is delighted to share,

Kelly Patton Krier ’06 has worked at the

Lewis Simon ’17 visited campus in

“I’m living in Seattle and in an unexpected turn of events, am working for the Washington State Attorney General’s Office. My section represents the Department of Health, which was pretty mundane until the pandemic started. Our section now is involved in creating new case law to deal with the explosion of misinformation disseminated by doctors and other medical professionals over the past three years. I also volunteer to assist with pro bono immigration and asylum cases our attorneys handle. Live and serve!”

Raleigh-Durham airport for eight years. She works as a Behavior Detection Transportation Security Officer (TSO). During her tenure, she’s run into many people, one of whom was former faculty member Caroline Rooney, who was in town visiting another former faculty member, Shirley Smith-Johnston.

December and spoke to group of Drea Gallaga’s entrepreneurship students in the Live+Serve Lab. (See story, page 22.) Julia Doyle ’18, Margaret Chandler ’18

and Jessica Hourihane ’18 ran the Chicago Marathon this October.

This fall Alex Arenson ’19 spent three weeks volunteering at REGUA, an ecologiNoah Swartz ’06 finished an extreme cal reserve located in the heart of the ultra-distance bike ride in France called Mata Atlântica forest in Brazil. “It was Paris-Brest-Paris which has been running impossible to overlook the importance of since 1891 and requires riders to travel REGUA’s impact while surrounded by the 1,200 km (about 750 miles) in less than 90 physical evidence of it; the lush and fully hours. (See story, page 22.) regenerated landscape of indigenous Xochitl Carmona ’09 is the creator and plants and trees. My work consisted of owner of Werk Mija, an apparel and participating in reforesting initiatives, accessories brand by a Latina for Latinas rewilding of tapirs, engaging with the Emily Herzberg ’04 has been named who unapologetically celebrate their children of Guapiaçu, and so much more. Chief of Neonatology at Salem Hospital culture through empowering and relatable Working alongside passionate individuals in Massachusetts. In this role, she messages. Xochitl has created a and a dedicated organization was both will oversee newborn services in the community through her products and the inspiring and humbling. I witnessed how Special Care Nursery and The Birthplace Werk Mija podcast, a place for motivated the power of collective action can truly at Salem Hospital. Dr. Herzberg will mujeres to cultivate the life they deserve transform an area from devastation to a continue her practice at both Mass General for Children and Salem Hospital and enjoy inspiring stories. Join Werk Mija thriving ecosystem. Returning from this on this journey to build a community that transformative experience, my personal and serve as Neonatology Director of the celebrates Latinx cultura and empowers passion and dedication for pursuing a Fetal Care Program at Massachusetts mujeres to create their own path! career in conservation has only been General Hospital. strengthened. I carry with me not just Caroline McCarthy ’09 joined the board Dan Killian ’05 and Todd Searle ’05 both memories of the breathtaking landscapes, talked to classes of current NSCD students for March of our Lives. but also a sense of responsibility to about their work, Dan virtually and Todd continue advocating for the preservation of in person. (See story, page 22.) our planet.”

2000s

Jessie King Regunberg ’05 recently

announced the release of her new book entitled “Searching for Seashells: An Artist’s Guide to Treasures on the Beach.” It’s available for purchase on Amazon.

2010s

Jonathan Segal ’15 shares news on his

Kamryn Deveny ’19 started a new position

startup Zeno Power: “We’re partnering with NASA to develop a radioisotope power system that will enable multi-year science and exploration missions on the lunar surface!”

Abby Renaud ’19 coached NSCD middle

as associate marketing manager at Medline Industries, LP. school field hockey in the fall of 2023.

Abby Renaud ’19

Wenqian Lu, Danny Lowinger ´08, Stephen Lowinger ´08, Jessie Gotsdiner, Lauren Lowinger ’06

Danny Lowinger ’08 and Wenqian Lu

Nick McCarthy ’11 and Harriet Davies

Lenny Blake Gendell

Older siblings Shana and Eli with Brooke Talia Ostrow

“I look forward to sharing more information about the ‘Haunted’ project I will be working on soon as a production assistant/runner.”

Lorenz William Aggens, 92 of Wilmette,

2020s Izzy Cho ’20 was named a 2024 Rhodes

Scholar. She is one of 32 outstanding students from across the United States who will commence their studies at Oxford in October 2024. Winners were selected from a pool of 862 applicants who had been nominated by their colleges and universities, and they were announced November 2023. Izzy also was welcomed by Harvard Magazine to its editorial staff, as one of the 2023-2024 Berta Greenwald Ledecky Undergraduate Fellows. Starting in the November-December issue, she became one of two authors of the “Undergraduate” column, contributing articles in print and online about aspects of Harvard life. Lola Adebiyi ’21 has been selected as a

2023 Disney Storytellers Fund at Howard University Scholar through the Disney Future Storytellers initiative. “I am so grateful for the opportunity and all the people I will be working with,” she says.

Former Faculty Helen Honey Turley, 97, of Lake Forest,

passed away Tuesday October 24, 2023 at his home. He was born Thursday January 8, 1931 in Evanston, the son of Henry and Johanna Aggens. Beloved husband of the late Joanne Aggens. Father of Wendy Aggens Griffiths ’83, Christy Aggens ’86 and Annie Aggens ’88.

preceded in death by her husband, Richard Hancook Turley, her sister, Joanne Honey Chicago Foundation for Women’s co-founder and Interim President & CEO, Stimson, and her parents, Bonnie and Sunny Fischer, was honored at The Richard Herbert Honey. She is survived by her H. Driehaus Museum’s Gilded Gala daughters Elizabeth Turley, Chicago, November 30. She was recognized for her Cynthia Turley Gentles, Northfield, and career dedicated to the arts, historic presJoanne Turley Elisha (Bob), Fort Mill, ervation, and improving the quality of life South Carolina; grandchildren Sam for those around her. Gentles (Jenna), DePere, Wisconsin, Carolyn E. Stockberger (Scott), Hinsdale, Charlie Gentles (Lauren), Wilmette, Engagements Elizabeth E. Hammes (Andrew), Seattle, Tori Blair ’19 to Ethan Leslie Katherine Andrews (Patrick), Chicago, and Bobby Elisha, Fort Mill; and greatCaroline McCarthy ’09 to grandchildren, James, Connor, Henry, Richard Pompizzi ’07 Brady, Reese, Hailey, Colin and William.

a c o r n · Winter 2024

cl a ss notes

Vyana Devi Gandhi

Marriages Stephen Lowinger ’08 to Jessie Gotsdiner

June 2, 2023 Danny Lowinger ’08 to Wenqian Lu

November 7, 2023 Nick McCarthy ’11 to Harriet Davies

Luca Gibson Lusarreta

nancy epstein

william b. graham, iii

July 5, 2023 Mother of Former Faculty Debbie Youderian Grandmother of Justin Youderian ’20, Marissa Youderian ’22, and Noah Youderian ’24

October 5, 2023 Father of Jackie Graham ’80

September 9, 2023

francis g. burlingham ’45

Births

jim o’connor

vyana devi gandhi July 13, 2023 Priya Patel ’06 and Vikas Gandhi

lenny blake gendell September 23, 2023 Michael Gendall ’10 and Erica Gendell

luca gibson lusarreta June 20, 2023 Nico Gibson ’06 and Montse Lusarreta

brooke talia ostrow November 11, 2023 Tobye Ostrow, Former Faculty

In Memoriam jim risk February 10, 2023 Grandfather of Hannah Bottum ’13 and Sam Bottum ’16

carol larsson stern ’45 June 13, 2023 Wife of the late Russell Stern Jr. ’45 Mother of Russ Stern ’68, Bill Stern ’71 and Patti Stern Ross ’74

July 17, 2023 August 1, 2023 Grandfather of William L. O’Connor ’18 and Bradley J. O’Connor ’18

june allison irvine ’63 August 1, 2023 Sister of Linda Allison Haslach ’64, Blake Allison ’68 and Taber Allison ’70

georgia elmes welles ’48 August 3, 2023 Grandmother of Former Faculty Berkley Wellstein, Great-grandmother of William ’33 and Georgia ’34 Wellstein

lois gehr livezey ’57 August 9, 2023

julia burdick monge ’62 August 20, 2023

robert turpin ’59

Oct. 7, 2023 Mother of Joanne Turley Elisha ’77 Mother-in-law of Bob Elisha ’77 Grandmother of Katie Gentles Andrews ’10

lorenz w. aggens October 24, 2023 Father of Wendy Aggens Griffiths ’83, Christy Aggens ’86 and Annie Aggens ’88

joan whiteman December 6, 2023 Mother of Don Whiteman ’70 and Kimball Whiteman McLeod ’74 Mother-in-law of Nancy Green Whiteman ’71

Grandmother of Molly Whiteman Vreede ’03 and George Whiteman ’06

suzanne kjellenberg ’77 *see class notes

REGIONAL GATHERING We’re coming to Washington, D.C.! SAVE THE DATE: APRIL 25, 2024

Watch your inbox for more details.

September 7, 2023

esther saks September 18, 2023 Mother of Jane Saks ’80

Send in Your News!

gloria flanzer

A C O R N I S M AY 1 5 , 2 0 2 4 .

October 2023 Mother of the late John Flanzer ’66 and Peter Flanzer ’76

helen honey turley

THE DEADLINE FOR THE SUMMER

Email aweathers@ nscds.org or call Ashleigh at 847.881.8848 .

a lumni r efl ec t ion mike wartman ’63

So much of North Shore has always enjoyment. A few years ago, I was riding been about giving students opportunity. my bike when I got hit by a car and thrown We had the opportunity to explore interup into the air. In that split second of ests and talents, to play sports, to sing in being disoriented and airborne, I rememthe chorus, to perform on stage, to assume bered what Mac told me when I was a a leadership position. Academically, we half back and on a few occasions was in were pushed by a diverse group of teachers the air and disoriented after being tackled, who worked hard to bring out the best in “Relax,” he would say. “When you tighten, their students. I had my share of successes you get injured.” I landed on the road with but also some setbacks that challenged me. a lot of bruising, but nothing broken. I remember a pivotal moment in my junior Amazing to me that in that brief moment year when a teacher critiqued one of my I would hear Mac’s words from so many papers and I defended my work—perhaps years ago. the first time I stood up to a teacher, While at North Shore we would finding my voice. occasionally have visits from the school’s Like so many who have ref lected on founding headmaster, Perry Dunlap their time at North Shore, mine was filled Smith, long retired but still active, curious with great friendships. Over the years, I and impressive in his three-piece suit. We have stayed in touch with a number of would gather in a classroom, and he would classmates. We talk regularly, share our talk to us. I still recall a discussion we had life journeys and pull apart our North on cursing. Unless you could curse with I entered North Shore as a shy, hesitant Shore experience. What a gift to have that unique creativity, cursing was a cop out, freshman, convinced I was at the wrong bond. Sadly, I also mourn the loss of a he explained. You were not being articuschool because all my friends were at New number of classmates no longer with us. late and specific in expressing yourself. It Trier. But my parents knew North Shore My career was in education. I taught, was limiting. I have drawn on that when was the school for me, and there was no coached and counseled students at all talking to students about cursing and negotiating. It turned out they were right. levels for 40 years, and I still continue to control. Another topic Mr. Smith talked to Back then, all ninth and 10th grade do some counseling. I always strove to us about was how worms have sex. That is boys had to play football. It took me out of listen to students, to hear and see them, a story for another time. my comfort zone, but soon I was hooked. to encourage and to appreciate their I left North Shore with mixed emotions, Our coach, Mr. Joseph Pynchon was also uniqueness. I knew that within a school excited for future opportunities, but my English teacher. He was creative, community I had an opportunity to make knowing something special was ending. engaging and charismatic. He seemed to a difference in someone’s life every day. I am grateful for the richness of my know what we were going through and I had taken to heart the school’s motto, experience, a richness that has continued kept things in perspective. I looked for“Live and Serve.” and grown through the years. I am grateward to practice every day. We lost all our In my coaching career I would someful for all of the kindness extended to me games that first year, but it did not matter. times ref lect on former NSCD Athletic by teachers, staff and classmates, and the I began to feel I had a place where I Director Mac McCarty. He made our close friendships I still maintain. I am belonged. By the time senior year rolled practices fun, and he had a balanced extremely grateful to my parents who around, our luck turned. Led by captains perspective. In the midst of my own made it possible and knew this was the Lance Morgan ’63 and Mitch Sisskind ’63, coaching challenges, I would recall his school for me. Thank you for the opportuwe won every game. work ethic, commitment and sense of nity to share these ref lections.

I knew that within a school community I had an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life every day. I had taken to heart the school’s motto, “Live and Serve.”

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