Oldfields Magazine Summer 2021

Oldfields SUMMER 2021

EMBRACING YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF

M A G A Z I N E

BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2021-2022 Chair Nancy Palmer P'12 Vice-Chair Carol Hubbell Engebretson '72 Secretary Elizabeth "Biddie" Labrot '76 Treasurer Scott S. Menzies P'03

Marney Babbitt-Pierce '04 Jennevee Frias Crespo '01 Peter G. Curran Heidi A. duPont '95 Christine L. Edwards '95 Jamila Hubbard '11 Lulu Laubenstein Good '72, Alumnae Association President Susan Andrews Leschen '87 Elizabeth Turner Love '90 P'20 Dominique Young Mejia '04 Kae Nomura '03 David G. Perfield, Head of School Gay Richardson Smith '68 Rayven Vinson '10 Ramsay M. Whitworth P'19 Carolyn Ewing Woods '87

OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE STAFF Alicia Bowers P'17, Editor Brian Vinyard, Creative Director Photography: Alicia Bowers P'17, Brian Vinyard, Erin Wallace Contributors: Caroline Blaum, Alicia Bowers P'17, Laura Brown, Anne Ragland Finney P'97, Jeremy Jernigan, David Perfield, Pamela Susi P'22, Erin Wallace, Kathleen Wenck, and Shawn Wright ©2021 by Oldfields School. Oldfields Magazine is published twice a year by Oldfields School.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Views expressed herein are those of the author exclusively. Oldfields is a private, nonprofit, educational corporation. Oldfields is an organization described in section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and all contributions to Oldfields are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Correspondence for Oldfields School should be addressed to: Oldfields School, 1500 Glencoe Road, Sparks Glencoe, MD 21152-9321 or Communications@OldfieldsSchool.org.

I N T HIS ISSUE Message from Head of School

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Our Mission

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May Program Turns 50

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Reflections on What Was Lost... and Found

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Virtual Alumni Weekend a Success 26 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

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Mary Katherine Koehler Retires

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Annual Awards

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Class Notes

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The 43-Year Legacy of Dori Reigner P'03

In Memoriam

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Academic Program Updates

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Remembering My May Program to Paris

A MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF SCHOOL DAVID G. PERFIELD Dear Oldfields Community,

As I begin my fourth year as the Head of School, I consider the My goal for the summer has direction in which we are heading been to slow down. My guess and the ways in which we will is that many of us do not know continue to honor the extraordinary what that truly feels like. vision of our courageous founder, Pause. Stop. Look up. Look Anna Austen McCulloch. I also around. Don’t rush on to the think about our students and faculty, next thing. Pay close attention especially after what we experienced, to your senses, taking in what and accomplished, during the 2020you see, hear, smell, taste, and 2021 school year. To say I admire touch. Capture your thoughts their commitment and resilience and follow where they take would be an understatement. This you. Reflect. Repeat often­— past school year was a success, and whenever necessary. not only because we delivered an in-person learning experience for After a year like no one the entire year culminating in a could have ever imagined, I traditional Graduation on June 5, have focused on balance and but also because of the lessons we revisiting the fundamentals learned during a journey that took that are essential to the us into uncharted territory. We’ve Oldfields Core Experience Lisa and David Perfield with daughters, Anna and Lexi, at Graduation gotten better at recognizing when that our students benefit we should listen more closely and from every day. I’ve been less apologize for mistakes.

We’ve been reminded that humility is a focused on my lists, meetings, and deadlines. value that’s at the heart of what we do every day—and I believe As is often the case when an organization is faced with it’s a characteristic that’s permanently embedded in our students challenging times, this past year forced us to examine who and graduates. We will remain a work in progress, and that is a we are and what the “non-negotiables” are when it comes to good place to be, as long as we continue to learn while staying an Oldfields education. It also raised important questions. true to ourselves and our mission.

How did our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion In April 2021, Oldfields hosted the Association of Independent inform and influence our daily commitment to each and Maryland and DC Schools Ten-Year Accreditation Visiting every one of our community members­—and their experience Committee. Their visit was the capstone of a two-year self-study at Oldfields? Looking through an equity lens, what school process and an opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to policies need to be updated? How will our new Mission demonstrate how Oldfields provides an exceptional educational Statement, the root of our Strategic Plan, help drive our experience for adolescent girls. In the debriefing session their planning in other priority areas and ultimately move the feedback was robust. I was amazed by how well the Chair and School forward? What are the School’s strategic goals? How her team knew Oldfields—they “got us.” As the visit came to do these goals advance the Core Experience? Are there an end, the Chair proceeded to share one last highlight saying, resources available to support these goals? These are just a “As the committee was wrapping up, I asked everyone, ‘If I were few of the questions I reflect on when considering the past to share one takeaway from this experience with David and his academic year and the near and distant future of this historic team, what would it be?’” The answer was worth waiting for. school.

“Tell them we all feel inspired by what’s happening here.”

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My first thought was “I couldn’t agree more! Every day I am inspired by our caring community, the way we are invested in one another’s success and well being, and the way in which we embrace each student’s authentic self and celebrate them for who they are.”

As you peruse the content throughout this magazine, I hope you too feel inspired by what’s happening at Oldfields.

We provide our students with a wide-range of opportunities that are intended to help them grow and explore—and we look for ways to build confidence and develop leadership skills, regardless of previous experiences and future goals.

That’s how they find themselves!

Wherever you have “paused” to read this letter (and the following pages), I wish you peace of mind, strength, and future days full of kindness and good health. We’ve all learned valuable lessons since the COVID-19 pandemic struck in early 2020, and I believe Oldfields School is

stronger today because of our creativity and commitment to the fundamentals that shape the Oldfields Experience for our students.

As we enjoy the remainder of the summer and begin a new school year, I will ask for your continued help in serving as an ambassador for Oldfields. Sharing your Oldfields story with a neighbor, a colleague, or a friend might open a door for a student who needs a place to live, learn, and grow in a school that feels like home.

With a slightly “Larger Heart,”

David G. Perfield P'29, '31 Head of School

“Everyday I am inspired by our caring community, the way we are invested in each other’s success and well being, and the way in which we embrace each student’s authentic self, and celebrate them for who they are.”

David Perfield presents a beaming Diana Santos with her diploma.

David and Isabella "Izzy" Griffith celebrate the finish at Green and White 5K.

SUMMER 2021

Barbara Latrobe and David are excited to add her name to the list of winners of the McCulloch Family Award.

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Embracing Authentic Self

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A Closer Look into Oldfields Mission Why are we here? Difficult times like the past year and a half often cause us to ponder the big, existential questions as individuals and as organizations. When 2020 came pounding on the door, Oldfields School was already in the middle of the strategic planning process. The dual crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic and the social unrest surrounding racial injustice made the answer to the above question all the more crucial. Why does Oldfields exist? Who are we here to serve? How do we best serve them? What is our mission? Has it changed?

Boiling down 150+ years of rich history, the experience of thousands of students, and the life's work of hundreds of dedicated educators, into one concise, meaningful, statement is no easy task.

Oldfields has meant so many things to so many people. How do we capture the words that appropriately honor our past, remain relevant to the present, and guide our future?

Throughout the school year we made progress with several key initiatives, including our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan and our Association of Independent Maryland and DC Schools (AIMS) ten-year accreditation, both of which laid the groundwork for the pending Oldfields Strategic Plan. A revised mission statement was the first priority and a critical cornerstone as we mapped the strategic direction of the School.

TRUE TO OUR HISTORY In October of 2020, the Oldfields Mission and Vision Task Force was formed and included as many voices as possible, including key administrators, new and experienced teachers, past and present board members, and, of course, alumni. After many passionate and meaningful discussions, certain core values emerged­—common threads that wound through each of our varied experiences. One principle ever present since Anna Austen McCulloch first opened her doors to a "few local children," was the profound commitment to embrace each student for who they are, celebrating their uniqueness even when it might not be the popular or easy path. At that point in time, it might have meant encouraging a girl's interest in science or educating a young woman to prepare for "work outside the home." Other times, it was expressed as the acceptance of female students as athletes, needing and benefiting from physical activity, a practice that caused some families to withdraw their young girls from Oldfields in the1800s. Most importantly, it meant consistently knowing each student and supporting their challenges while developing their strengths.

AUTHENTIC SELF IN THE PRESENT The underlying principles may have not changed in our 150+ years, but the outward manifestations of authentic self certainly have.

Yesterday’s unpopular, even shocking, decision for a young woman

“We knew her (Anna Austen McCulloch) to be a rare soul, one who gave a large interpretation to life...She saw; she was not blind to our deficiencies, but she looked beyond them with hope; and we, loving and reverencing her for that hope, strove to overtake it.”

UNNAMED STUDENT CIRCA 1876

“I judge for them (students) and with them what is best.

I am governed by their health, mental ability, previous studies, and their own preferences. I deal with them as though they were my own children.”

FOUNDER OF OLDFIELDS SCHOOL, ANNA AUSTEN MCCULLOCH

These sentiments ring truer than ever, and still guide us as we strive to live our mission by letting each student know, We see you. We will meet you where you are.

We value your uniqueness. We welcome your voice.

We embrace the real you.

Continued....

SUMMER 2021

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Embracing Authentic Self, continued to pursue a career in the sciences, exercise her mental and physical faculties through atheltics, or strongly share her opinions around the dinner table have been replaced by our current students' quest to speak out boldy on women's rights and racial injustice, to express their non-binary identity, and advocate for a new academic course on global justice. We are proud of the fact that our students make their opinions heard on everything—the classes we offer, the School's social media posts, the speakers we invite to assemblies, dress code change—they are empowered to take ownership of their experience.

Regardless of the issues at hand, the heart of embracing a student's authentic self remains creating a safe space to be vulnerable; a kind, caring, and accepting community where everyone can celebrate all facets of themselves; a place to understand your own and each other's intersectional identities; a space that aspires to be the best of what a home should be. This reflects what we believe in, and have always believed in—the goal is to live it fully each and every day with each and every student.

This is the first step in building confident, purpose-driven individuals.

We hear from our alumni, time and time again, that this was indeed the case during their time at Oldfields. The numerous and constant

opportunities to connect with trusted adults, from teachers and coaches, to dorm parents and advisors, is the foundation for this process. Actually, every employee at Oldfields plays a significant role, from MK Koehler in the business office who distributes students’ allowance to Webmaster Brian Vinyard who takes and edits our videos and photos—all play multiple roles and build relationships with our students. The circle of trust expands through programs such as May Program, Big Sister/Little Sister ("Bigs and Littles" for short), and dorm competitions that are intentionally designed to foster meaningful friendships. Everything we do is centered around creating the optimal environment for the authentic self to be expressed and evolve.

We openly acknowledge that at times, we have failed to live up to this ideal and fallen short of providing an accepting environment and caring support for all, especially for our BIPOC (Black, Indigenious, People of Color) students and other marginalized communities. If you have been following our communications, you know we are working diligently to right those wrongs and to live up to our mission.

On the following pages you will find profiles of four Oldfields students who have found their authentic selves through a variety of pathways.

Authentic Self through Leadership: Jadisha Proano '22 Jadisha shares that she, like many, was a shy ninth grader.

“ I started out at Oldfields not really knowing anyone…everyone told me the message that “you are enough.” It should be a given; but it takes a long time to come to the understanding for yourself. I experienced a lot of personal growth this year and would not have been able to do it without friends, teachers, and my advisor. I started looking at myself from other points of view and stopped judging myself so harshly. I’m really happy with who I am and the people around me.”

Meet rising senior and newly elected All-School President Jadisha Proaño. Jadisha's family is from Ecuador, but she was born here in the United States. Living on the border of East Orange and Newark, New Jersey, Jadisha comes from a close family with both sets of grandparents at the center. "I live in a small house where you never feel alone." Jadisha's grandmother passed away this past spring due to COVID-19.

Since then, Jadisha has found herself in the kitchen with her mother, learning to cook her grandmother's recipes. She knows her grandmother would be proud of her leadership at Oldfields as she serves not only as the head of the student body, but also as a proud representative for Hispanic students.

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Jadisha was always a strong voice in support of BIPOC and Latinx communities, but during her junior year, Jadisha took her efforts to a new level and quickly jumped in to help lead the school's efforts to grow in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

As a leader of the Student DEI Committee, Jadisha attended this year's National Association of Independent School's virtual Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC) in early December. During a presentation to the Oldfields community, Jadisha shared her deep appreciation for the affinity group spaces and the tools that SDLC gave her to navigate a pandemic as a young woman within a Latinx family. Her knowledge, compassion, and confidence allowed her to

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lead a variety of DEI workshops, most recently presenting on BIPOC contributions to film and theatre in an engaging and educational workshop delivered to the entire student body.

When asked about the concept of authentic self and her advice to younger students on how to find it, Jadisha shares, "Be genuine. Be honest with people. Don't try to deceive others or hide your true intentions. It's not always easy. It may take a long time to find it (your authentic self), but when you do, it's really nice to have people just accept you for you."

Authentic Self Through Exploration: Jooyeon "Juniper" Moon '22 Juniper also experienced a common misconception early on with members of the community assuming she was Chinese and/or the sister of an existing student. Fortunately, she felt comfortable telling two older students with whom she had become friends, and they made sure to correct everyone. After that, Juniper said she knew had found her place at Oldfields.

Her group of trusted friends steadily grew, and a strong friendship formed with day student, Ella Herring '22. Juniper often stays at the Herring's home during breaks when she can not travel back to Korea.

Juniper came to Oldfields as a ninth grader from Busan, South Korea. As a little girl growing up in South Korea, Juniper knew education was highly valued in her culture. Her family selected an academically strong elementary school, but her middle school experience did not live up to expectations and actually deterred Juniper from even attending school. Her parents decided Oldfields was the answer. Juniper's confidence was shaken, she was nervous about the language barrier, and she was less than thrilled when she found out there was a requirement to play competitive sports at Oldfields. Everything was brand new and intimidating, but Juniper had a positive attitude and was determined to embrace everything Oldfields had to offer from day one.

“ When I first started, everyone was talking to me, which was overwhelming at times, but made me feel welcome. My English steadily improved.”

SUMMER 2021

Juniper continued to lean into each and every activity. Despite her trepidation over sports, Juniper tried tennis, basketball, lacrosse, and track and field. She is involved in the Student DEI Committee, Asian Culture Club, Model United Nations, National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI), Student Council, and is an Admission Ambassador. After doing a stellar job as White Team Spirit (at times, from thousands of miles away) she was chosen as the White Team Captain for the 2021-2022 school year.

"I am most proud of being selected as a member of the National Honor Society. When I first came to Oldfields, I needed help with academics and the NHS tutors gave me great support. So, since my freshman year, I made it a goal to become a member and help others in the same way!"

Her family is also happy with the experience Juniper is having.

Her mother shares, "오래된 역사만큼 선생님들의 사랑이 깊고, 넓고 뜻하지 않은 위치 같이 여학생들은 풍부한 감성과 다양한 매력이 있다”

English translation: "The teacher's love is as deep as the old history and as wide and unforeseen as the place, with girls who have a rich sensibility and various fascinations."

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Authentic Self through Social Change: DJ Jones '21

“ You do not have to be a senior in order to step up and lead. Honestly, your voice can be heard as soon as you arrive. Speaking up may be intimidating at first, but your voice is very important within our community. Your voice matters, and our faculty and staff really help you to find it during your time here. Your voice can contribute to the community in a lot of ways, such as bringing awareness to issues, engaging in a club you feel passionate about, or even just brainstorming ideas surrounding events and topics that would benefit the community.”

DJ Jones, a recent graduate who is heading to Howard University this fall, came to Oldfields as a legacy student. Their sisters, Daejarie Jones '20 and Trustee Dominique Mejia '04, were both very involved in the Oldfields community leaving DJ with big shoes to fill. However, DJ had no intention of following a predetermined course, and it was obvious from day one that this brilliant and energetic student would blaze their own trail.

DJ got involved early in their Oldfields career and encouraged other underclass students to do the same.

DJ certainly followed their own advice. A gifted athlete from the start, DJ participated in three competitive sports every year. They consistently demonstrated exceptional work ethic, sportsmanship, and team spirit which earned them the 2021 Nimick Athletic Award. DJ was co-leader of Black Alliance Club (BAC), member of the Student DEI Committee, a talented student-athlete, a member of Gay Straight Alliance, and an Admission Ambassador. Through BAC, DJ worked to spread awareness and encourage action within the student body, faculty, and staff, recognizing that allyship and alliance are not enough when our country is faced with so many injustices within the Black community. "I want all students here to have a trusted adult for support and encouragement."

Authentic Self Through Relationships: Madeline "Maddy" Krupp '21 her cousin, Dean of Students Claire Guidera, presented a potential solution—come to Oldfields. In the middle of her junior year, Maddy enrolled as an Oldfields student.

In Maddy's Senior Presentation, she shared her 18-month journey from a reluctant, rebellious, and lost teenager to the confident, grounded, and respected All-School President that stood before us bravely sharing her authentic self.

Maddy's Oldfields journey began one might say begrudgingly.

Struggling to find her footing at her large public high school in Vermont, having difficulty getting along with her family, and on the precipice of making mistakes that could be life-altering— 8

The speech began, "My name is Madeline Rose Krupp. This label pertains specifically to myself; no one else can claim it as their own. A name entails self-discovery. How will my identity be defined? At times, the only thing that seems to make sense to me is the fact that my name is attached to my body and my body is attached to my soul. How will I be unique beyond the naked eye of physical characteristics? I seem to be in a constant cycle of losing sight of what is in front of me. Rhetorical questions scramble through my mind, trying to find a place to rest. But there seems to be a continual struggle to be content. These questions arise often, bringing me into a state of confusion: Who am I? Who have I been? Who do I want to be in the future?"

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The vulnerability present in Maddy's speech left us breathless as she described her early days.

encompassed my being. A thank you to her is an understatement, but it's a start that I will hold onto forever."

“ Embraced with tears. I was disgusted with who I was. Someone help me. Someone listen to me.

Oldfields, close your arms. I don’t want your grasp. Okay, fine. This school… knocked me down and swept me off my feet...but I think I was okay with it. This kick saved me, and what scares me the most is that I don’t know what state of pandemonium I would be in today if I wasn’t here. Oldfields, I still hold a grudge against you for knowing what I needed better than I did.”

Maddy's closing words from her Senior Presentation perfectly demonstrate what we hope, dream, and work towards for every student, "Courage, Humility, and Largeness of Heart.

Values I will hold onto for the rest of my life. Joining them is integrity, respect, confidence, kindness, and self-appreciation.

These values were taught to me over the past 18 months in this community. Never in my life did I anticipate leaving a school with over 1,000 students in the middle of my junior year to finish my high school experience in the middle of rolling hills in Maryland at an all-girls school with 100 students. I don't think anything in life is ever expected, but that's what makes it interesting. My path is not the same as yours, and that's the way it should be.

Maddy's name and her smiling, confident image adorn the pages of the Awards section of this magazine; First Honors for her grades and winner of the Elizabeth Leeds Memorial Award, just to name a few. She became a dedicated leader in and out of the classroom. Her strong connection with underclass students helped guide and lead them through one of the most difficult school years anyone could imagine. While Maddy developed exceptional relationships with many trusted adults at Oldfields, her advisor Dr. Jeremy Jernigan, Assistant Head of School Caroline Blaum, and the entire Perfield family, she credits her first friend at Oldfields, Claire Chao '20, with setting her on the right path of self-discovery. "I think she was the first person I ever truly let see beyond the fence that

At a time when so many outside influences attempt to define who a teenager should be, Oldfields will continue to provide a space as free as possible from that pressure—where students can focus on discovering and pursuing their passions, not burdened by who they are "supposed" to be. The power of embracing the authentic self is timeless. The result is a deep-rooted sense of belonging that makes our community a family, our campus a home, and our students prepared for a life of profound and rewarding purpose.

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"To all of you here, thank you for repairing my heart. You gave me this purpose: to thrive every single day, no matter the pain I feel inside, and confront challenges head on. You mean the world to me.

"So here lies the final question: Where will I go from here?

The answer: anywhere but nowhere, taking everything one day at a time and never forgetting where I came from. Mentally, physically, and emotionally, moving forward with everything I can.

“My name is Madeline. Madeline Rose Krupp. I am graduating tomorrow from Oldfields, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

May Program Turns 50!

Celebrating half a century of life-changing, experiential learning

By Director of Marketing and Communications Alicia Bowers

May Program, a hallmark of an Oldfields education, began in 1971 with special two-week programs called capsule courses.

In 1972, abroad trips to Paris and Madrid were introduced for foreign language students. The other students, who remained on campus, were offered a wide variety of experiential learning experiences that included everything from Stock Market Practices to Beginning Shorthand. Just like today, the programs were designed to provide real-world experiences that complement the academic curriculum. This hands-on experience provides a rich opportunity for students to learn more about themselves, their peers, and the world at large.

May Program has come along way since the 1970s, growing into an integral part of the Oldfields Experience, with 20+ programs offered in a typical year. Everyone looks forward to the two-week culmination of the academic year as faculty program leaders share 10

a personal passion or area of expertise outside the traditional curriculum, and students enjoy the freedom to focus on an area which they want to explore. Students often discover interests that eventually become careers and/or life-long passions.

A constant, year after year and decade after decade, is the use of the phrase "life-changing" when the students describe their experiences. The new perspectives they gain and strong friendships that form stay with them long after they graduate. May Program provides an opportunity for self-discovery, leadership, and confidence-building. Galloping across the plains of Iceland, soul searching on the beaches of Normandy, nailing drywall for local Habitat for Humanity homes, watching the sunrise from a mountain top in Maine even, learning how to change a tire—it's incredible to think of all the powerful lessons learned, near and far, over the past fifty years.

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After the disappointment of canceling the May Program in 2020, a determined and creative faculty and staff put together eight truly amazing learning experiences for 2021. COVID-19 travel restrictions did limit the options, but three programs were able to offer overnight stays in Maine, Virginia, and Maryland which fell within the guidelines of our health and safety protocols. In addition, on-campus programs were filled with day trips that took advantage of the numerous cultural and natural attractions within driving distance of the School.

MARYLAND: FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO THE SANDY SHORES

This year, on the 50th anniversary of May Program, we can honestly say that the unique, life-expanding, and profound experiences which took place were cherished more than ever!

MAINE STAGE

HIGHLIGHTS: Acting skills workshops, an exploration of Acadia National Park including a sunrise hike on Cadillac Mountain, a lighthouse boat tour, kayaking on Sebago Lake, a Portland Sea Dogs game, performance of the hysterically funny and fast-paced performance of the play, Game of Tiaras, to the Oldfields community

HIGHLIGHTS: Exploring Maryland's waterways and marine life via white water rafting, kayaking at Assateague Island, crabbing and fishing on the Eastern Shore, and water sports at Deep Creek Lake, MD

Register at www.OldfieldsSchool.org SUMMER 2021

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OUTDOOR SERVICE AND ADVENTURE

COLONIAL AND EARLY REPUBLIC HISTORY THROUGH THE EYES OF BLACK/AFRICAN AMERICAN PEOPLE AND WOMEN

HIGHLIGHTS: Visits to Hampton Mansion, Delaware History Museum, Harriet Tubman Museum, Colonial Williamsburg, VA, and Jamestown, VA

DESIGN-BUILD-PLAY

Creation of an urban garden (including mixing cement!); volunteering at The Maryland Zoo; assisting at local animal shelters; and lots of outdoor fun, such as hiking to waterfalls, kayaking, and zip lining

HIGHLIGHTS: STEM competitions involving catapults, blow torches, and 3-D printers; team building via an escape room; house design and construction; and a high ropes course across a lake

“I wanted to become one with nature and get out of my comfort zone. I am proud and glad to say that I did just that. This was one of the best experiences of my life.” - MICHAELA A. '22

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FOOD SCIENCE

HIGHLIGHTS: Cultural food experiences (from Guangdong soups and Japanese shirataki noodles to French cassava crepes and plant-based smoothies); visits to Asian markets, Bonjour French Bakery, and Roseda Farm; learning the chemistry of flavor creation from a McCormick expert; and several days of hands-on cooking in our test kitchen

SPORT HORSES

HEALTHY INSIDE AND OUT

HIGHLIGHTS: Yoga at local studios as well as in nature, a presentation from alumni nutritionist Ashley Grimmel '06, hiking at Oregon Ridge, DIY skincare, and community service at First Fruits Farm

ne INTRODUCING

Winter Program

Created by Landan Lloyd from the Noun Project

HIGHLIGHTS: Clinics on how to model and jog horses, hunting and jumping, and how to care for your horse; a trip to the Devon Horse Show; visit to Fox Hall Rehabilitation; a presentation on steeple chase from alumni Casey Pinkard Savin ‘07; pony racing; and polo at Elkridge Harford Hunt Club with Director of Alumni Programs Laura Brown

Register at www.OldfieldsSchool.org SUMMER 2021

w!

Lloyd Landanject d by Pro Createthe Noun from

On this milestone anniversary, we are thrilled to announce the expansion of our experiential learning program to include a Winter Program which will take place in January when the students return after their winter break.

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Remembering My May Program to Paris

By Hilary Gardner Swain '72

In 1972, I participated in Oldfields' first May Program to Paris! I remember it like yesterday. There were about a dozen of us who went with Miss Hassett, the French teacher. We stayed on the Left Bank in a semi-hotel/dorm arrangement, with at least three or four students per room, but it was fun. And, we always had dinner at the same restaurant around the corner.

On our first full day in Paris, Miss Hassett took us to the French école (school) where we were supposed to have classes every day. I am pretty sure all with the exception of my best friend, Candy Brooks Widmer '72, snuck out the back door after Miss Hassett left, and then for much of the next three weeks we shopped, ate, and walked all over Paris having a blast. Even though we did cut a few classes, we all learned so much! We met many Parisians and literally walked miles every day getting to know Paris. To this day I feel at home in Paris because of the incredible opportunity we all had.

During one of our shopping excursions, Mary Glascock McCanless '74 and I were waiting to cross a street when a bus came barreling down the bus lane incredibly fast.

Though I was on the sidewalk next to the curb, I was somehow was swept up and hit my head on the bus, and then fell back and hit my head again on the sidewalk. After being unconscious for a good five minutes, I woke up to the bus driver screaming at me as if it were my fault! Of course, I had no idea what he was saying given I had missed all the French classes we were meant to be attending.

While we were there, somehow Miss Hassett found out I had been hit by a bus...most likely Mary had called her. All she knew is that we were at the hospital and that I had been hurt. In those days, before cell phones, Mr. Nevens (Headmaster George Nevens) called my parents to tell them I had been hit by the bus. You can imagine how they received that call!

Hilary Gardner Swain 1972 Rarebit

My parents then called my grandmother who happened to be in Paris at the time visiting the Duke and Duchess of Windsor (Wallis Warfield, Class of 1914). My grandmother got hold of someone who found me. In the meantime, Mary and I were released from the hospital, and we took a cab to where the rest of the group was having dinner. When we walked into the restaurant Marcia Belehas Downes '73 literally fainted, her head went into her soup...she figured I must be a ghost!

Hilary Gardner Swain '72 (far end of table, left) and Candy Brooks Widmer '72 (far end of table, right) enjoy dinner in Paris with students during the 2017 May Program

A crowd of French people were yelling back at him, and they gave me a paper listing their contact information and told me it had been the bus's fault. A large black ambulance, sirens blaring, came and whisked me and Mary to the hospital, where they checked us out and gave me a tetanus shot in the thigh. (I also 14

remember the doctors were very cute!)

The next day my grandmother called and said the Duchess would like to ask us all for tea at their house in the Bois de Boulogne. Of course we were thrilled to be invited to tea with a duchess! My grandmother sent cars for us, and we all had a wonderful time having tea with my grandmother and the Duchess. Quite amazing really...the memory is just as vivid today as it was 50 years ago.

Forty-five years later in 2017, Candy Brooks Widmer '72 and I took a trip to Europe to reprise that May Program. We had an amazing time and luckily were in Paris when that year's May Program group was also there. One of the highlights of our trip was having dinner together at a lovely Parisian restaurant with that group of current Oldfields students and to know it was as much of a life-changing experience for them as it was for us!

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OLDF IEL D S ANNU A L AWA RDS C E R E MONY 20 2 0-20 2 1 Even after 98 years of the Oldfields Annual Awards Ceremony, the excitement of this year may have topped them all. As the students, faculty, and staff filed into the gymnasium, Green and White Teams sitting on opposing sides, all were united in the joy of celebrating a successful year together. With the proud parents (many of whom had never been to campus except to drop off and pick up their student!) looking on, the following awards were bestowed:

Green and White This award goes to the team winning the most points for intramural games, academics, discipline, attendance, spirit, community service, and the ever-popular hunt for the Thing-A-Ma-Bob! WINNER OF THE GREEN AND WHITE CUP 2020-2021

The Green Team

Mikayla Alvarez '24, Chiya Gibson '23, Jooyeon "Juniper" Moon '22, Athletic Director Gaby Davis, Katherine "Kit" Fisher '22, Kameron "Kami" Borden '23, and Ashling O'Callaghan '24

Academic Awards ACADEMIC HONORS

Class of 2021 students with a grade point average of 93% or above for their senior year: Madeline "Maddy" Krupp '21 and Katelyn "Katie" Mather '21

Green Team jumping for joy as they win the Green and White Cup for the first time in five years!

TEAM CAPTAINS 2021-2022

Green Team Captain: Katherine "Kit" Fisher '22 White Team Captain: Jooyeon "Juniper" Moon '22 TEAM SPIRITS 2021-2022

Green Team Spirit: Kameron "Kami" Borden '23 White Team Spirit: Chiya Gibson '23 TEAM CHEER

Team Cheer is a brand new addition for the 2021-2022 school year.

The positions are voted on by the underclass students (grades 8-10) with the winners having the responsibility to assist the Captains and Spirits in leading their teams in school spirit throughout the school year.

Green Team Cheer: Ashling O'Callaghan '24 White Team Cheer: Mikayla Alvarez '24

Director of Academics Dr. Jeremy Jernigan is proud of scholars Katelyn "Katie" Mather '21 and Madeline "Maddy" Krupp '21.

TAYLOR SMITH PRIZE FOR FIRST HONORS

Student with the highest senior GPA in a challenging program of study: Katelyn "Katie" Mather '21 AWARD FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

The senior who graduates with the highest cumulative GPA in a challenging program: Siyue "Laura" Ren '21

Faculty Awards NANCY I. O'CONNOR '75 EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING PRIZE

Given on the basis of votes solicited from select alumni class years and current students: Priscilla DiGalbo McCOLL TEACHING AWARD

Made possible by a generous endowment gift from Mr. and Mrs. Hugh McColl, parents of Jane McColl Lockwood ‘86, to recognize outstanding teaching: Dori Reigner P'03

Register at www.OldfieldsSchool.org SUMMER 2021

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NIMICK ATHLETIC AWARD

The student with all around athletic proficiency, good sportsmanship, and team spirit: DJ Jones '21

Dori Reigner P'03, a dedicated and exceptional teacher for 43 years, got a well-deserved standing ovation as she received her award.

THE ANSLEY D. SMITHWICK FACULTY PRIZE FOR OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP IN ACADEMIC AND STUDENT LIFE

This prize is to be presented annually to the faculty member who best exemplifies the Oldfields motto, "Courage, Humility, and Largeness of Heart," by fully and willingly engaging in as many aspects of the academic and student life of the School as possible: Frederick Bielaszka-Duvernay

DJ Jones '21, a player with passion on and off the field, is congratulated by Athletic Director Gaby Davis.

WITHERBEE SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD

This award was established in honor of Jill Macrae Witherbee '49, an outstanding athlete at the School, and is awarded by a vote of all the team coaches to the "student exhibiting outstanding sportsmanship in both interscholastic and intramural play": Katelyn "Katie" Mather '21 COACH OF THE YEAR

The recipient of the Coach's Award was chosen by the entire student body for their expertise, dedication, and love of the art of teaching and coaching: Frederick Bielaszka-Duvernay

Riding Awards HORSEMANSHIP-SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD

French teacher Frederick Bielaszka- Duvernay, known for always encouraging students to perform their best and is congratulated by Assistant Head of School Caroline Blaum.

The student who best demonstrates an understanding of horses, celebrates her own successes with humility, and takes joy in the achievements of her peers: Bryce McNichol '23

Athletic Awards CHRISTINE HEARTFIELD MEMORIAL PRIZE

The student who demonstrates outstanding interest and participation in athletics: Constance "Stancey" Smith '21

Director of Riding Amy Phillips awards Bryce McNichol '23, with her constant smile and passion for horses, this year's Horsemanship Award.

Constance "Stancey" Smith '21 with teammate Katelyn "Katie" Mather '21

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OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

THE HORSEMASTER AWARD

The student who is dedicated to improving her riding skills and acquiring additional horse knowledge while possessing a genuine love for the horse: Tara Hu-Henderson '23

Tara Hu-Henderson '23 understands that practice makes perfect.

MOST IMPROVED RIDER AWARD

The student who has made the most significant progress in her development as a rider and horsewoman: Charlotte Soiefer '21

May Court prepares to walk down Graduation Hill.

COMMUNITY SERVICE SENIOR AWARD

Service and philanthropy are two areas that require an individual to look beyond oneself in order to see the needs of others. This award goes to the senior who has been a consistent model of largeness of heart through her attention to community, both at Oldfields and in her local area: Anna Altman '21

All-School Awards THE GOLD KEY AWARD

Charlotte Soiefer '21 always wants to improve.

The Student Ambassador whose outstanding support and cooperation with the Admission Office has done the most to convey the Oldfields spirit to visiting families: Michaela Athey '22 and N'Deye M'Baye '24

May Court Chosen by the entire Oldfields community, the May Court is composed of the four seniors who most closely represent what it means to be an "Oldfields Girl."

Flora: Constance "Stancey" Smith '21 Crown Bearer: DJ Jones '21 Maid of Honor: Diana Santos '21 May Queen: Madeline "Maddy" Krupp '21

N'Deye M'Baye '24 worked closely over the past year with Assistant Dean of Admission Mason Rooney to spread her passion and love for the Oldfields Community with prospective families.

DIVERSITY COMMITTEE AWARD

Given to the student who celebrate diversity and promote inclusion throughout the School: Jadisha Proaño '22

Register at www.OldfieldsSchool.org SUMMER 2021

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AWAR DS TRUSTEE PRIZES

MARIAN CULBERTSON '63 AWARD

Eighth Grade: Casey Dowling '25 Freshman: Sophia "Sophie" Hyre '24 Sophomore: Chiya Gibson '23 Junior: Haoran "Lucy" Zhang '22 Senior: Charlotte Soiefer '21

The underclass student making the most positive effort for its own sake: Isabella "Izzy" Griffith '24

Isabella "Izzy" Griffith '24 strives for excellence in every aspect of her life and does it all with a smile that shines through the mask.

Chiya Gibson '23 exudes confidence, integrity, and her own brand of wisdom.

Trustee Dicky Darrell P'06 had the honor of presenting her with the Sophomore Trustee Prize.

MARY K. MCPHERSON AWARD

The underclass girl with the highest academic average in a challenging program: Sophia Mather '23 JOSEPH T. BRENNAN II AWARD

The girl, who by her own efforts, has made the most significant progress during the current year: Mya KezarMalzahn '22

Trustee Dominique Mejia '04 awards Sophia "Sophie" Hyre '24 with the Freshman Trustee Prize.

KATHERINE CULBERTSON '65 AWARD

The first-year student making the greatest contribution to the School: Maizah "Maizi" Johnson '22

Mya KezarMalzahn '22 pushed herself every day to be the best student she could be.

LEROY M. POLVOGT AWARD

The girl who, by example and by deed, has been the most constructive influence on underclass girls: Madeline "Maddy" Krupp '21 EDITH LIDDELL TWISS '28 MEMORIAL PRIZE

The student who has exhibited the highest standards of good citizenship: Jadisha Proaño '22 MARION H. " CHIP " ALLEN MEMORIAL AWARD

It is no surprise that Maizah "Maizi" Johnson '22 was presented with the 2020-2021 Katherine Culbertson ‘65 Award. She is always there to offer a helping hand.

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The student who best exemplifies past Board Chair Marion H. "Chip" Allen's personal qualities of thoughtfulness and warmth through demonstrated concern for the overall well-being of the Oldfields community and the individuals who comprise it: Madeline "Maddy" Krupp '21 THE HEAD OF SCHOOL AWARD

Given each year by the head of school to recognize an outstanding senior: Madeline "Maddy" Krupp '21 OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

LORNA M. KELLY AWARD

HELEN E. TRAVERS AWARD

The underclass girl who, in the opinion of the teaching faculty, possesses the greatest love of learning for its own sake: Jadisha Proaño '22

The senior who, in the opinion of the faculty, has made the greatest overall contribution to the School: Constance "Stancey" Smith '21

Jadisha Proaño '22 is a role model to her peers as she brightens every day and challenges herself to learn beyond the classroom.

ELIZABETH LEEDS MEMORIAL AWARD

The senior girl who, in the opinion of the faculty, best exemplifies the spirit and ideals of the School, which are expressed in the Oldfields motto Courage, Humility, and Largeness of Heart: Madeline "Maddy" Krupp '21

Constance "Stancey" Smith '21 is a quiet leader, a determined student, and a kind friend to all.

ALL-SCHOOL PRESIDENT 2021-2022:

Jadisha Proaño '22 JUNIOR CLASS OFFICERS

President: Chiya Gibson '23 Vice President: Kameron "Kami" Borden '23 Secretary/Treasurer: Kikiloluwa "Kiki" Bejide '23 SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS

President: Ella Herring '22 Vice President: Maizah "Maizi" Johnson '22 Secretary/Treasurer: Jooyeon "Juniper" Moon '22

Madeline "Maddy" Krupp '21 has been a shining example of the Oldfields motto throughout her time here at Oldfields School.

Register at www.OldfieldsSchool.org SUMMER 2021

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Creativity and Connection

The 43-Year Oldfields Legacy of Dori Reigner P’03

By Director of Stewardship Anne Ragland Finney P'97

The year was 1978 and the time was 10:30 p.m. when Director of Studies Taylor Smith telephoned Dori, a young teaching candidate, to ask if she'd like to come to Oldfields for an interview the next day. The first thing Dori thought was, "What is the Director of Studies doing at his office at 10:30 at night?", which piqued her curiosity.

Dori was looking for "an environment where I could have an impact on my students," where she would be able to "make a difference." She immediately fell in love with Oldfields. "It felt like home—the environment, the rolling hills, the horses… It felt like the perfect place for me." Of course she was hired, and in her letter thanking Taylor for the opportunity, she told him she "felt I'd be here for a long time." She was right.

Dori began her life at Oldfields teaching both theatre and English, in addition to studio art, working with the Head of the Art Department Wendy Rogers P'82 GP'12, 17, wife of Headmaster Hawley Rogers P'82 GP'12, 17. She jumped right in as a dorm parent in Sturgis. And what a dorm parent she was! She lived on campus for 26 years, sharing "It was a great place to raise a family."

Throughout her 43 years at Oldfields, Dori wore many hats, from advisor and assistant librarian, to Director of Studies, May Program Coordinator, and Visual Arts Chair. As a drama teacher, she produced the first musical at Oldfields in many years (Alice in Wonderland, with Diana Chaplin '81 in the leading role).

She developed and taught a study skills course. She brought the art curriculum to life, growing it and adding courses to suit the interests of her students.

Dori (along with Wendy) introduced the Ceramics class in a studio in what is now the Old House copy room and the Head's Office.

Inspired by Emily Acle Cardwell '09's passion for fashion design, Dori utilized one of the multiple summer McColl Grants she was awarded (The McColl Teaching Award was established in 1984 by the parents of Jane McColl Lockwood '86 to recognize outstanding teaching) to develop an Applied Design curriculum. Student enthusiasm for a May Program called Laptop Drawing was so strong that Dori introduced a Digital Design class. Another McColl Grant resulted in Art and Culture, a more globalized version of the traditional Western-oriented Art History course, highlighting the art of different cultures from around the world. "There was so much autonomy at Oldfields, so I could build my program around the students."

A prolific practicing artist herself, one of her most memorable ideas was the 365 Day Challenge she did with her students. For an entire year, Dori produced a piece of art every single day—a drawing, a small painting, a collage. The goal was to prove to her students that "work ethic is important. Everyone is creative, and creativity takes lots of forms. Art-making is a basic human behavior, and creative expression is an important part of your life."

Dori feels the dominant theme at Oldfields throughout her years here is connection. "There is an indescribable feeling of acceptance and connection at Oldfields. It's the people here that

OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

make the magic, and people can sense it. I wanted a vocation, not a job. This wasn't a job to me. There were tough times, but the connection with the students and community kept me here."

Dori feels strongly that Oldfields' future will rest on its sense of community. "It's what keeps the kids here. It's what keep the adults here. It's what keeps the alums coming back. And the relationships continue beyond one's time at Oldfields. You can't ever really leave this place because you have all these connections, lifelong connections. This place touches people. It has contributed to my character and has made me believe in myself."

Three Oldfields legends, Maribeth Littlefield P'07, Betsy Isaacs P'05, '08 and Dori Reigner P'03. 125 years of combined experience!

In Dori's Own Words

" Oldfields is a living, breathing thing. Strong teachers change with the times. The best teachers are learners themselves."

- Dori Reigner P'03 Dori built visual arts at Oldfields into such a strong program that The Tammis Day Foundation was moved to donate $5 million in its support, and additionally, Oldfields has been inspired to offer a new Arts Concentration Program in 2021-2022, designed to allow students who are passionate about the arts a more focused opportunity to develop in their discipline.

My students have often asked me why I have stayed at Oldfields for as long as I have. I tell them that there are two reasons— creativity and connection. Every new school year presents new challenges for me as an artist—new students, new classes, and the ability and autonomy to tailor the visual art program to meet the needs of this new population. As a result, no two years at Oldfields have been alike. Because I firmly believe the best teachers are students themselves, my students have expanded my own creative growth as an artist. An example of this is the Instagram challenge I did with my students two years ago—365 days of art—one piece a day for 365 days. I did this to prove to my students that work ethic is important to one's growth as a creative person.

Above all, it is Dori's unwavering support for her students and her genuine joy in sharing their successes that is most memorable about her. Four decades of Oldfields girls warmly recall Dori's encouragement, quiet warmth, calmness, wisdom, and gentle, steadfast presence. Not everyone is a gifted artist, but Dori encouraged anyone who loved art to continue with it, no matter their skill level, believing that every artist is unique in their own way and celebrating each person's differences.

For 43 years, Dori has also embraced, embodied, and modeled the culture and essential traditions of the School, allowing succeeding generations of faculty and staff to understand and learn the essence of what it means to be an Oldfields teacher, advisor, and mentor.

The Oldfields community owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to Dori Reigner. She has left her mark on Oldfields, and she will be greatly missed.

SUMMER 2021

My mind is filled with stories—stories of connection. These stories are important to me, and I am truly grateful for every connection I have made during my tenure at Oldfields. As I look forward to the next chapter of my life, I know that I will always keep these memories in my heart. Thanks to all of you—success, after all, is the quality of the journey.

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Academic Program Update

By Director of Academics Dr. Jeremy Jernigan

" Nothing can beat the individual approach to teaching that a small class affords.”

- Anonymous 2021 Parent Survey Response Reading student and parent surveys is not only the most valuable activity I do each year, but also an annual highlight of my school year. The results across these surveys are consistently and remarkably strong, a testament to our faculty and the unique learning environment at Oldfields. We know our students at Oldfields, which is what allows us to focus on each girl's success.

When I think of our academic program, I think of excellence, with support. We hold each student to high standards that will prepare them for college and beyond, and we provide the support each student needs to achieve those high standards. What that means for each student can vary­­­—that's what personalized learning is all about. We constantly push our students to challenge themselves to grow and improve, and we push ourselves to do the same. We always strive to be better.

Within this spirit of continuous improvement, we are excited to share news of enhancements to our Academic Program for the 2021-2022 school year. These changes have been informed by extensive and inclusive internal and external reviews of our programs, our recently completed ten-year Association of Independent Maryland Schools (AIMS) re-accreditation self-study, and recent student, faculty, staff, and parent surveys. We have been intentional in identifying areas where we could provide an even better experience for our students while being careful to maintain the essence of what makes our academic program unique—a personalized experience. These enhancements have been designed to expand the breadth, depth, and diversity of opportunities and the support available to every student at Oldfields.

NEW COURSE OFFERINGS • AP Statistics

• Painting I

• Biology Honors

• Shakespeare in Film

• Women in Literature: Women of Justice

• Drawing I

• Strategies for Academic Success

• Women and Gender Studies

• Genetics

• Theatre: Comedy and Improv

• Global Conflict and Justice

• Theatre: Television and Film

• World Building: Science Fiction and Creative Writing

• Open Eyes, Open Minds: New Perspectives on Understanding

• Travels, Journeys, and Voyages in Literature

• Young Adult Literature: A Journey Through Adolescence

EXPANDED ACADEMIC COURSE OFFERINGS

experiences, and grow from them. Students will have access to significantly more of these experiential learning opportunities.

These opportunities are present throughout our co-curriculum, but will be especially evident in our expanded weekend experiential learning activities, our new one-week experiential Winter Program offered the first week of January, and our signature two-week May Program, entering its 51st year in 2021-2022. These opportunities are part of our "100-mile classroom" approach to learning, taking learning out of the classroom and into the culturally rich environment that surrounds the Oldfields campus (and well beyond, with our international May Programs).

NEW ACADEMIC CONCENTRATIONS

Students have more courses to choose from this year, including the new option of semester courses. This, along with our slightly redesigned schedule, will allow students more choice and flexibility in designing their personalized academic path. Students also have increased access to both Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors courses. Advanced Placement courses will prepare students for the College Board's AP exams, which can award college-level credit to high school students. Honors courses will offer equally challenging course designs and expectations. All of our courses will remain college preparatory, and we will continue to provide a diverse set of support structures including highly accessible faculty and advisors, regularly scheduled extra-help blocks, 1:1 academic support sessions, professional and peer tutors, and structured study halls.

EXPANDED EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

Academic concentrations allow students to pursue more focused study in certain areas. Oldfields has always been known for strong visual and performing arts programs. Beginning in 2021-2022, we will offer a new Arts Concentration Program designed to allow students who are passionate about the arts to be recognized for their deep engagement. The Arts Concentration will integrate academic courses, experiential learning, community service, and capstone performances into a flexible, college-like major. Not all students will pursue an arts concentration, but all students will benefit from an even stronger arts program at Oldfields. Looking forward, we will offer additional concentration programs in the coming years, including a potential Global Justice Concentration Program beginning with the 2022-2023 school year.

These are just some of the changes our students and families will notice when they return to campus for the 2021-2022 school year. We hope they result in an even more personalized learning experience for each student as they pursue their individual definition of excellence, with support.

Learning takes place beyond the classroom. Experiential learning provides students structured opportunities in which to challenge themselves through new experiences, to reflect on those SUMMER 2021

" My daughter has grown so confident in her academics thanks to her teachers and advisors.

She is always ready to take on a new challenge now.” - Anonymous 2021 Parent Survey Response

WE D ID IT! REFLECTIONS ON WHAT WAS LOST...

AND FOUND

By Assistant Head of School Caroline Blaum As summer shifted my professional attention to the 2021-2022 school year, I found myself reflecting on the unfathomable accomplishments that not only made this past school year a possibility, but a life-changing experience for all. Our students have now spent more than a year living and learning in a world of uncertainty, fear, and change. For the first time, there is no adult on our campus (or any other!) who can relate to the high school experience of today's young people. With limited in-person connection with peers and health and safety protocols prioritized over nearly every aspect of their teenage lives, our Oldfields students managed to find a way. Every day.

Through face coverings and plexiglass, I saw first impressions flourish into best friendships. Amidst a worldwide reckoning with systemic racism and injustice, I watched students lead the actions for change, creating our Community Norms of Engagement that are now threaded throughout our daily interactions. I witnessed new students find their voices to shed light on the ways in which too many voices have been silenced within historically white institutions. In the midst of a global pandemic, our students found a way to fill the David Niven Theatre with music, passion, and laughter. More of us sought out the "open-air" lifestyle at the barn where "the new normal" genuinely felt like "our normal." It was clear that the Oldfields magic could be found throughout even the most unfamiliar moments.

As an administrator, these last few months have presented moments of challenge, the need for endless problem-solving and genuine pause. However, for our students, these moments make up some of the most valuable years of their lives. The past year has taught me how our decisions, our intentions, and our impact mean little to nothing without the ability to listen, apologize, and collaborate alongside the vibrant young minds which fill our hallways and classrooms every day.

I am forever thankful for the dedication and resilience of the Oldfields community. From our veteran faculty rising to the challenge of a hybrid learning landscape, to our students' ability to adapt to frustrating and unfamiliar expectations, Oldfields did its best to protect the feeling of home and remain a source of comfort even while humbly navigating its own institutional growth.

As we embark on a new school year, new sets of challenges await each of us. Our commitment to the health, safety, and progress of Oldfields School will remain continuous in order to live our mission every day, keeping our love for our students at the center of everything we do.

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TO G E TH E R !

Virtual Alumni Weekend a Success!

By Director of Alumni Programs Laura Brown

We were overjoyed (and humbled) by the many smiling faces from across the generations and around the globe which popped up on the screen as each event unfolded during our Virtual Alumni Weekend on April 22-24, 2021. Alumni and past faculty spanning eight decades, hailing from Nova Scotia to California, from Texas to Hong Kong, joined us to celebrate their time shared at Oldfields School. It quickly became evident that the Oldfields magic could indeed be felt via Zoom and transcend a pandemic!

Beloved art teacher Dori Reigner P'03 retired at the end of the 2020-2021 school year.

Kae Nomura '03 is one of Oldfields' newest trustees.

Katherine Potter Randall '47 joined the Riding Reunion.

As always, Alumni Weekend offered a variety of opportunities for alumni, past and present faculty, and special friends (including the school horses) to reconnect. Attendees also heard from Head of School David Perfield as well as current students, about Oldfields' life on campus, current priorities, and plans for the future. It was heartwarming to see how much current students had in common with alumni as they swapped stories like they were old friends.

The most well-attended session was a toast to Dori Reigner P'03, our beloved art teacher, who has retired after dedicating 43 years to Oldfields. The accolades and tears flowed in equal measure.

The schedule also included opportunities to grow as a community by learning more about the School's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work and the Inaugural Black Alumni Town Hall— both critical steps in fulfilling our commitment to be an anti-racist and anti-discriminatory organization.

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Trustee Marney Babbitt-Pierce '04 led a workshop on empathy based on the research of Dr. Brené Brown. In times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic, empathy can be the magic that changes our relationships. During this interactive session, participants learned four steps that can be used to help those around you feel truly heard and loved.

A special-shout out to the class years who organized their own virtual happy hours surrounding the Alumni Weekend dates. The love, reminiscences, and stories shared were inspiring and a testament to the magic that is Oldfields. The energy was palpable across the miles. Can you imagine what fun it is going to be when we can all gather in person together in 2022!

OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

Virtual Alumni Weekend Art Show

Heidi duPont '95

Victoria Ohanna '01

W ow! We were blown away by the amazing work submitted by our very talented alumni for the Virtual Alumni Weekend Art Show. If you haven't seen it, you can view the full gallery at www.oldfieldsschool.org/ alumni/art-show

STAY CONNECTED n S hare your news regarding your careers, weddings, births, travel, grandchildren, etc. by submitting a Class Note on the Alumni pages of the website or by emailing Alumni@OldfieldsSchool.org.

Daisy Biddle Eiman '45

n M ake sure we have your correct email address so we can invite you to Oldfields events in your area. n L et us know your ideas for alumni programs and meaningful ways you would like to engage with Oldfields. n A nd most importantly, start making your plans to attend in-person Alumni Weekend on April 29 through May 1, 2022!

Kate Fleming Pistor '72

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategy

By Executive Strategist Shawn Rowley Wright The Oldfields 2020-2021 school year was memorable for many reasons. Not only were we navigating a pandemic and determined to provide an in-person experience for our students, but we also charged ourselves with driving meaningful Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) progress and programming throughout our community. Our DEI Board Committee developed a series of priorities aiming to ensure that each student is treated with respect and can live as their authentic selves. With the full support of our administration and Board of Trustees behind us, we were able to examine each area of our campus and our culture to see how we can better serve our students. We have taken important steps, learned many lessons, and are committed to continuing this work as a priority on our campus. Here are a few of the exciting initiatives pursued as part of our DEI Action Plan.

DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION We are thrilled to announce that after an extensive global search, we have welcomed Dawn Anderson to campus as our new Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Dawn comes to us from the Trevor Day School in New York City with an extensive background in DEI programming and curriculum. She is not only jumping into the Oldfields experience as our Director of DEI, but as a dorm parent as well.

"I am excited, along with my dog, Pinot Blanca, to be at Oldfields. I am energized 28

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to get to work with all the parents, alumni, faculty, and staff. All are welcome to reach out to me anytime." All members of our community will benefit from her expertise in the development and implementation of programs and services that will promote an environment of diversity, equity, and inclusivity.

STUDENT PROGRAMMING We have continued to prioritize monthly DEI Days in our student programming. Work for and by students took on many forms in an effort to reach and inspire as many as possible. Oldfields isn't just checking off boxes in this work; we know we need to build trust and enthusiasm with our students. We held monthly student-planned events corresponding with our Community Norms of Engagement. One of the studentled sessions focused on BIPOC contributions to the Arts. Another day, the community watched and discussed two powerful documentaries, Girl Rising and Knock Down the House. We hosted cultural events around food, music, and games throughout the year to help keep everyone engaged in this important work.

OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

In addition, several speakers interacted with the community via Zoom including Mrs. Antoinette Dempsey-Waters, creator of the African American History Curriculum for Arlington Public Schools and one of the co-authors of the African American Curriculum for the state of Virginia, who spoke to our community on the importance of African American studies, the role of economics, and how the Black experience shapes American history. The information she provided was helpful in our efforts to further diversify our curriculum.

In order to understand what our current BIPOC students are experiencing on campus, we held two different forms of listening sessions. One was hosted by Dr. Tracey Durant and Dr. Lisa Williams, and another was hosted by Trustee Jennevee Crespo '01. The information gleaned from these two sessions was invaluable in furthering the action plan most beneficial for our students. We also held open forum discussions to address current events in the world and on our campus. A few of these were scheduled events with specific topics while others were more impromptu as the students took initiative to express themselves and support their community. This outreach led to many powerful and memorable moments. It was inspiring to see students standing up and speaking out on such a variety of subjects.

BLACK ALUMNI TOWN HALL We held an inaugural Black Alumni Town Hall to kick off Oldfields Alumni Weekend this past April. The goal was to listen to the lived experiences and truths of our Black Alumni, as a critical component in ensuring Oldfields is an inclusive space for all.

Renowned, nationally recognized DEI practitioner, Dr. Rodney Glasgow, facilitated this event with nearly forty alumni of classes ranging from the 1960s to 2019, who spent several hours sharing stories and memories of their time here at Oldfields. The stories were poignant, powerful, and sometimes painful. The connection between the participants was immediately apparent and led to a call for a continuous series of conversations to share experiences.

This town hall was one step in building trust and inviting all of our alumni home to Oldfields.

STRATEGIC PLAN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work is now an ongoing component of our Strategic Plan. We are improving in our hiring practices, student programing, employee training, and an intentional decolonization of our curriculum. One of our next goals is to develop a method of assessing our efficacy and growth in this work. We are committed to continuing in this work to ensuring a vibrant, inclusive, equitable experience for every student who steps onto the beautiful Oldfields campus.

FACULTY AND STAFF DEVELOPMENT Our faculty and staff continued their DEI training and work in several different areas. We continued to host small discussion groups on White Fragility as we moved through a series of training and sharing experiences.

The smaller sessions encouraged more transparency and honesty in our discussions surrounding three key questions—Where have we come from? Where are we now? Where do we need to go? Faculty felt the discussions were more open and meaningful in the small group format, so we decided to follow the same model in the fall when we continue training with our summer reads, How to be an Antiracist and The Person You Mean to Be. Feel free to read along, and let us know what you think.

We also continued our work with The Wells Collective, a leading group of diversity practitioners that has led us in our DEI work this past year. They guided us through informational sessions on topics from defining DEI terms and language to creating an anti-racist classroom. After students left campus, we were excited to hold our last session in June, in-person. It was wonderful to have Akailah Jenkins McIntyre and Kalea Selmon on campus. We will be continuing our partnership with these amazing women during the 2021-2022 school year.

SUMMER 2021

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OLDFIELDS COMMUNITY NORMS OF ENGAGEMENT

O L D F I E L D S

Open minds and hearts Listen as if you might be wrong Distribute what you learn (with permission) Full attention to the speaker It is okay to stumble Everyone will remain respectful and curious Lead and learn with love Demonstrate compassion Speak for yourself

Mary Katherine Koehler Retires

By Director of Stewardship Anne Ragland Finney P'97 Need your weekly allowance? Want to know how much is in your debit account? Want to suggest something to you'd like to see in Herky's School Store? The go-to gal is student favorite Mary Katherine "MK" Koehler.

details" that are necessary for a smooth functioning office. This role is performed in the background—"We're the guts of the operation"—and is essential to the efficient running of Oldfields' financial processes.

Since the early 90s, when the Business Office took over responsibility for Herky's and MK was put in charge, generations of Oldfields students have turned to MK for their spending money, their snacks, and a smiling face and friendly ear. The most popular phrase she hears is "Miss MK, can I have my allowance, please?" It hasn't changed over the years.

Thirty-five years is a long time to stay in one place. MK "found Oldfields a really nice place to work. Everyone worked well together, and everybody would just have fun." And, of course, her relationships with the students; "Oldfields just does a wonderful job with our students," MK says. "We are truly invested in them, which is why we are all here."

MK has been at Oldfields since 1986—that's 35 years! She shares the reason, "I enjoyed getting to know the students. They'd come into Herky's and chat with me. It was like a safe haven for them there."

K's role at Oldfields will be a hard act M to follow, but the time is right for her to move on to the next chapter in her life.

"I am looking forward to not having my alarm go off at 5:30 every morning, to no external responsibilities. I like to putter with a wide variety of projects, and I am going to spend time in my craft room, baking, and at our beach house."

Libby Pace P'99, Tiffany Harison, MK Koehler, and Caroline Blaum

Although the School Store was closed in 2020 due to COVID-19, she still runs the student bank, and her "real" job is in the Business Office in Old House. As the Business Office Administrator, she plays a major role in the functions of the Business Office from the beginning of the year to the end. MK does all the bookkeeping, pays the bills, administers all financial transactions including tuition, debit account management, and "all the

It's the end of an era, but MK will long be remembered by all the students and colleagues whose lives she touched, who could always rely on her, and whose friendship they valued. Thank you, MK, for all you have done for all of us at Oldfields for so very long!

Alicia Bowers P'17 and MK Koehler, dressed as the Chesapeake Bay on Global Awareness Day 2018

MK in Herky's in the 1990s 30

OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

Class Notes

1945

1950

Class Agent: Suzanne "Susi” Greene Van Ells svanells@gmail.com

lass Agent: Martha "Billy” Isdale Beach C mibeach180@gmail.com

1947 Class Agent: Joan "Hebe” Stuart-Wortley Bishop grandy0720@gmail.com Joan "Hebe” Stuart-Wortley Bishop - I just won a landscaping award from

the city of Bath. My house got hit by a van last March. I had to replace trees so it looks quite different.

Lowrey Hardin Jones - Still relish my Oldfields memories! Will be 89 in July

and consider my Oldfields years the very best for character building and preparation for a cherished and hopefully contributing life! Forever grateful for my years of growth at Oldfields!

1951 Patricia "Pat” Wright Hume - I enjoyed being with my daughter and son-inlaw over the winter of 2020-2021. Still doing well.

1949 lass Agent: Ellen Virden White C rksudler@aol.com

Register at www.OldfieldsSchool.org SUMMER 2021

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1952

1960

Class Agent: Miriam "Mimi” Griffith Jones Happycanyon2002@yahoo.com

Class Agent: Helen "Ducie” Morris Minich ducie915@comcast.net

Class Agent: Jane Isdale Schaefer Janeschaefer3@mac.com

Daphne "Daphe” Dodge Walker - Lost my husband, Bill (age 96), having been married 31 years, in 2019, but my oldest daughter, Christina, has moved to Sarasota to be with me, her aged mother! Lucky me!

1953 Jeanne Colket Connell - I'm up!

1954 Class Agent: Marie-Louise "Wawa” Graham Ingersoll wawa1000@verizon.net

1955 Class Agent: Elizabeth "Wendy” Woodhull Bersing 2wendon4us@gmail.com Daphne Preece Hellmuth - Jim died in January 2020. It was a true sad blessing as he was not able to get around by himself and was very frustrated. He lived a long productive 96 1/2 years of life. I try to spend summers on Long Island and for seven months live in a retirement community in Fort Myers, Florida.

Betsy Cumming Dartt - Betsy's daughter, Amy Dartt Ashton '88, reached out to let us know of Betsy's passing on February 13, 2021, in Sarasota, Florida. Amy shared that Betsy loved Oldfields, remaining close friends with several of her classmates until her death. As a student, Betsy was a proud member of the White Team, an enthusiastic athlete, and a member of student government. Betsy is remembered for her incredible love of family and friends, her honesty and kindness, her integrity and intelligence.

While she worked as a successful real estate agent for over two decades on Long Island, it was her love of dogs that brought her much joy. She also enjoyed gardening and was an avid tennis player. She will be missed by her classmates and all who knew her.

1956 Class Agent: Cecile "Airey” Dinkins Ellis aireyellis@bellsouth.net Class Agent: Crista Grauer cgrauer@att.net

1957 Class Agent: Jane Hallenborg Peters Jhpeters136@gmail.com Nina Carter Rosselli Del Turco - We look forward to 2021 since this year has been difficult! We have avoided the virus by being very careful and staying safe. We miss our families!

Marty Merrow Wilson - I love that flexibility, resilience, and creativity are important parts of Oldfields. They certainly are in my life.

1959 Class Agent: Elfrida "Frida” Barrow Sinkler - fridamoore@aol.com 32

1961 Susan "Sue” Lloyd Scannell -- For our 60th reunion, it would be wonderful to get together.

1962 Class Agent: Katharine "Kandi” duPont Sanger KduPSanger@aol.com Class Agent: Patricia "Patty” Reese Vanderwarker prvanderwarker@gmail.com

1963 Blair Bartol MacInnes - We are all well and incredibly lucky through this terrible pandemic year. I do feel I have been living in a bubble compared to the pain and suffering of so many. I joke that I am running, reading, cooking, writing, and doing needlework, which is what I did BEFORE the pandemic. See some great Oldfields friends by Zoom every so often and always tell each other that we look just the same, which says more about Zoom than us. Hope all are faring well.

1964 Class Agent: Jacqueline "Jackie” Thomas Carey jackiecarey47.jc@gmail.com Class Agent: Lucinda "Cinda” Train Longstreth 202-328-3965 Eleanor "Dee” Allen - Lost one of my brothers, Arthur, last August (2020) which broke my heart. Sadly, aging brings more and more of this painful reality. Now in his absence, all I can do is carry him in my heart and try to emulate some of his good traits: generosity, decency, and respect for others. I am buying a new condo in Concord, Massachusetts, after renting in the same complex for five years awaiting the right place to pop up, which finally happened. In itself, my building is quiet, yet just around the corner from the animation of the center of town. One can see visitors here from all over the world who've come to see where it all began. The old trees, the trails, the wildlife, and historic sites give one the feeling of living in a postcard. So I am, as my mother would say, "a lucky girl."

Susan West Ross - My mother always said "Getting old ain't for sissies,"

and now I know how right she was! Do any of you feel that way? We moved out of our house of 35 years into a temporary spot. I had four stupid surgeries since September 2020, broke my wrist, and had a minor stroke as well as moving out of our house. To hell with 2021.

1965 Class Agent: Mary "Polly” Hyde Crawford pollycrawford20@gmail.com OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

CL A S S N O TE S 1966

1969

Class Agent: Carolyn Gibbons Abernethy cgabernethy710@optonline.net

Would you like to volunteer be the 1969 Class Agent?

Susalee Norris Sasser - I sometimes talk to Dede Perkins Gilbert '69, Nancy Adler '69, Bootsie Riegel Parker '69 and Marion Smith '69. They all are doing well. Bill and I have survived COVID without getting sick, and we now have had our vaccines. Our daughter from New York came to stay with us for seven months, so we stayed at our house at Edisto in the country. It has been a very interesting year. We have not been able to do any mission trips. That has been difficult for my husband. We are looking forward to a better

Class Agent: Antoinette "Toni” Carter Vreeland Toni.Vreeland@gmail.com Carolyn Gibbons Abernethy - The Class of '66 had a few Zoom calls this spring, and we promised to do a few more because we missed a few classmates. Stories told, and teachers, classes, and dorm rooms remembered, and then we got onto grandchildren. Spring got busy what with boats and gardens and a wedding of our youngest son in July, but I promise to organize another Zoom. Stay tuned, all.

Toni Carter Vreeland - All the Vreelands are healthy and fine! Walker and his partner, Evan, moved from NYC to Philadelphia in December and are loving it there. Walker is busy doing many different things like editing people's podcasts, doing voice-over work, and coaching, and Evan is gaining more clients for his hair-coloring business. Elizabeth, Taylor, Senna (4), and Mack (2) are happily residing in Austin, and the kids keep them very busy! Corbin and his girlfriend, Katie Bozeman, who have been living in Portland, Maine, recently bought 13 acres of property in Freeport,

2021.

Susalee Norris Sasser '69 and husband Bill

Maine, and will eventually build a house there. Corbin continues with his wood-working business, and Katie is an Assistant District Attorney in Portland. Everybody is coming to Bridgehampton for a week in midJuly, so we're very excited about that! Gerrit and I have spent a lovely winter in Ocean Reef (Key Largo) and are getting ready to head back to Bridgehampton shortly. We had a wonderful Zoom call with about ten of our classmates recently, and it was wonderful to see everybody again!

Carolyn Gibbons Abernethy put it all together and coached anybody who was having trouble with audio issues, etc. We hope to do it again soon!

Much love to you all!

1968 Class Agent: Anne Crimmins acrimmin@comcast.net Class Agent: Gay Richardson Smith gaybesmith@gmail.com Gay Richardson Smith - Wendy (our youngest) has three children, and we also have five other grandchildren aged three to nine. Here's to a great summer for everyone. Yay, Greens.

Susalee Norris Sasser '69's family, Jonny, Carrie, and Sylvie

1970 Class Agent: Gail Southard Canzano gcanzanophd@comcast.net Ann Watson Lineberger - After buying, selling, boarding, and showing show hunters in North and South Carolina, I moved to Los Angeles County. I still ride, do yoga on the beach where I live in Palos Verdes, and play a little tennis. My son Clayton is a music producer/DJ in the Los Angeles area. Got a guest unit in my house. Come visit!

Awlineberger@hotmail.com.

Ann Watson Lineberger '70 doing yoga on the beach

Gay Richardson Smith '68 with Wendy (her youngest) and her three children.

Register at www.OldfieldsSchool.org SUMMER 2021

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Natalie "Nats” Morgan Macy - So happy to be able to get together again with friends and family after a very long year! Cherishing every moment. Lots of hugs and laughter. Priceless!

Feeling blessed. All the family is safe and well!

Wishing everyone a happy spring and summer and hoping to see you all for our 50th next spring!

Natalie Morgan Macy '72's granddaughter Hannah, 3, and her big brother Jack, 8.

Ann Watson Lineberger '70 with her son, Clayton

1971 Class Agent: Kathleen "Kathy” Smith Guill ksg510@icloud.com Class Agent: Seashols Starks sstarks2@bellsouth.net Seashols Starks - Cheers for our 50th! So loved seeing the faces and hearing the stories from the sixteen of you who participated in our virtual Class of 1971 50th reunion gathering in April. I am back to swimming laps outside while admiring the blue skies, puffy clouds, and various birdsongs. Now it is time to plan some trips again.

1972 Class Agent: Carol Hubbell Engebretson carolengebretson@gmail.com Class Agent: Lulu Laubenstein Good lulu.laubenstein@gmail.com

Natalie Morgan Macy '72's son Alex and daughter Louisa

1973 Pauline Combe-Clark - On a rainy Sunday, Susan came to Vermont to visit family and Pauline Combe-Clark '73, Susan Straley Darcy '82, and Anne Swayze got together to catch up and just enjoy each other's company.

Swayze, Head of School at the Greenwood School in Vermont, and "Straley" who runs her own innovative independent elementary school with her husband in Austin, Texas, and Pauline who with her husband, runs her own 501-C-3 Jack Russell terrier rescue in western Massachusetts. It was a most wonderful celebration of friendship and to be repeated more often!!!!

Who said we aged????

Class Agent: Denise "Dede” Alexandre LeComte dealeco@gmail.com Class Agent: Susan "Silly” Sillcox Repko repkofamAZ@gmail.com Verlinde Hill Doubleday - Expecting my second grandson the last week in September!

Lulu Laubenstein Good - With both vaccinations under my belt, I am trying to be brave and dip my toe back into the pool of life! Wags, the two year old, 100+ pound puppy, is so good at getting me out of the house and back into the real world. Our son Anderson's squash coaching job at George Washington University has come to an end as GW, along with a number of colleges, has dropped a number of sports, including squash.

Happy to say he has earned his masters degree and has landed on his feet and will be working in DC for the foreseeable future. Bill and I are doing well and are hoping to get to spend some time at our family house in the Poconos.

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Left to right, Pauline Combe-Clark '73, Susan Straley Darcy '82, and Anne Swayze, Past Faculty

OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

CL A S S N O TE S Lynda Wellman Dobson - Well, I did it! I retired from a job of 27 years on December 31, 2020, and immediately my husband and fur babies jumped in the car that afternoon to drive to our new life in Portland, Maine.

Amazingly, I have not regretted one moment of retirement or moving. I just enjoyed a fabulous weekend with my daughter, Chotsie, and her family in Indiana. Avery and Jack are growing so fast and are my heart. I was in contact with Carol Counas '75 earlier this month. She, too, is doing well.

Diana Kaiser Bulger - It was wonderful to be included in the Oldfields

Alumni Art Show. I received the loveliest thank you note from Lulu. I had another art exhibit at the University Club of DC on June 24th. Missing all of my friends from Oldfields.

Diana Kaiser Bulger '74 artwork, Blue Sailboat on the Bay and Pink Manolo

Lynda Wellman Dobson '73's granddaughter Avery is very excited at her 4th birthday party, and grandson Jack has found a new way to play t-ball!

1975 Class Agent: Megan North hopewelltoo@gmail.com Megan North - Our cocktail party reunion held over Zoom was very fun

1974

and informative. It was a big success. We had friends from multiples classes join in, including Clevel Harris '81 and Peggy McKee Elwood '75.

Class Agent: Carol Atterbury zebracrazy@mac.com

1976

Carol Atterbury - Wow, what a year! I

survived and am happy and excited to be able to travel and move around again!!!! Had a wonderful little fire pit get-together with Lulu Laubenstein Good '72, Taylor and Judy Smith, and Jill Romanowicz Unruh '87 in the fall!

And forgive me if I've forgotten someone!!! Spent the winter recharging some riding skills and am hopefully becoming a new mother of the perfect Thoroughbred (at least that's what I've been told by some of the elite! Jumped out on a limb and acquired a new addition to the pack. Her name is Eloise, Carol Atterbury '74 and her new and how I've forgotten what having a puppy Eloise puppy is like!! Will be spending the summer with the new horse and back and forth to the shore!! Reach out and come for a visit!!! Be well and safe!!!!

Class Agent: Hilary Cooper hilcoop@gmail.com Class Agent: Mollie Johnson Williams loggcabin@cox.net Titi Hiers Conley - I retired in April after 38 years of working. Although I

loved my job and was extremely thankful to be working during the entire pandemic, I must admit I cannot wipe the smile off my face.

I plan on getting back to daily exercise, seeing friends, gardening, and adventures. My husband and I also look forward to more time at our Nantucket cottage and visiting our boys. So sorry I missed the reunion weekend.

Daphne Fullerton Churbuck - I am a

grandmother now and absolutely loving every moment...living on Cape Cod. Shout out to all the girls from my days at Oldfields...what a special place!

Daphne Fullerton Churbuck '76's daughter and grandson Thomas

Register at www.OldfieldsSchool.org SUMMER 2021

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Perri Wight Green - We have just remodeled our home in McLean, Virginia,

to have all our living on the first floor. We have an apartment for rent on the second floor. Here is a photo of my grandsons and our daughter, BG Tucker, who live in Minneapolis. BG is a college counselor at a charter school in Minneapolis. Our youngest daughter, Lucy Green, lives in Los Angeles. She is a video editor. I still work for the American Foreign Service Association, and my husband, Terry, still consults for low-income housing.

Lydia Crow Agullo '78's husband, JP, and dog

1979 Laura Carr - I have gone back to school to learn

how to edit video, and I am thoroughly loving it.

Perri Wight Green '76's grandsons and daughter, BG Tucker

1977

Laura Carr '79

Class Agent: Robin Brown arbrown19@att.net Class Agent: Barbara Trotter Collins btc1959@mac.com

1978 Class Agent: Dawn Danagher Peters contact4dawn@gmail.com Alisa Gold-Garvey - I was saddened to hear about Alice (Alice Wailes Steiner '78). It won't be the same going back to Oldfields and not seeing her smiling face and rosy cheeks.

Lydia Crow Agullo - Life has been filled with adventure...coming up on my seven-year anniversary with JP....and life in Texas! We sure have had ups and downs... now we've found our groove. JP has been working on the local highway project, seems to be good at it, just switched companies...I'm still dealing with medical issues, but feel stronger daily, thanks to our Lydiareed Crow Agullo '78, ESA DOG ONYX...my saving grace...

My HEART IS FULL & HAPPY Future looks good, COVID-19 FREE, we are planning to begin our house hunt soon....LOL, TOOK ME YEARS TO GET HERE, BUT TEXAS IS HOME.... SHOUT OUT, BARBARA, HALLY, KATIE...YA'LL WERE RIGHT....I DO LOVE IT HERE.

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1980 Class Agent: Andrea Anderson Gagnon tilt1985@yahoo.com

1981 Class Agent: Heather Wistar LaBudde hwlabudde@gmail.com Class Agent: Mary Ellen Power Rogers mepower2@gmail.com Heather Wistar LaBudde - Hello, gals! Hope everyone is getting geared up

for summer! I can't wait to hit the pool! My younger son Timothy "finishes" high school next month and "graduates" on June 5, exactly 40 years to the day after Oldfields Class of '81 graduated!! Goodness! Has it been that long since we all walked down the hill barefoot (well, some of us), carrying our roses and giving hugs to Taylor Smith? Krikie! My older son will be working in a lab (bio research) this summer, and graduating from Tufts in the spring! He will start medical school at Tufts after that.

It's anyone's bet on what kind of doctor he will be! It's rather exciting to speculate! I continue occupational therapy in an acute-care rehab. I am very much looking forward to taking a break though and getting away on my VERY first trip to Disney World with my younger son, Timothy! He has never been there either. I am hoping I get the privilege of seeing Laura Rogers Towne '82 while down there as well. She and I have been keeping in touch, which has been special. Think that's all the news fit to print!

Happy summer, everyone! Wis :)

OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

CL A S S N O TE S Penn State for his second year. Michael, my husband, is still working but is talking of slowing down. And I still manage our horse farm. I started raising labradors and have a couple of litters a year which keeps me very busy. Please keep safe.

Laura Rogers Towne - I will be retiring from the practice of medicine at the end of July and starting as a full-time art student at Flagler College here in Saint Augustine. My goal is to receive a BFA in a couple of years and then to somehow use that to find a job. I would love to teach art, work in a gallery or museum, or have my own small business. A huge change, but I am so excited!

1983 Heather Wistar LaBudde '81 and her grown children, Timothy (18) and Christopher (21)

Class Agent: Barbara Lynn Dulin barbaralynndulin@gmail.com

1984 Class Agent: Asifa Hassam abhpasha@gmail.com

1985 Class Agent: Alexandra "Alex” Stegemann Christianson alexandraschristianson@gmail.com Class Agent: Pam Crowder-Thompson pamcrowder2015@gmail.com

1986 Seated from left to right: Mary Ellen Power Rogers ‘81, Katie Trautlein '81, Joan Carter '81, P'15, Frannie Pope Hohman '82, Lisa Hewitt Cassara '83, Lou Pierce Bradner '81, Megan Mardiney '82, and Heather Woods Keller '82 at Viansa Sonoma Winery.

1982 Class Agent: Adrienne Russo Mach adriennerusso1@gmail.com Susan Straley Darcey - Been teaching in Austin, Texas, for about 30 years.

Now we run our own elementary micro-school on eight acres, and, boy, it is SO much fun! I am so happy. (www.schoolontherise.com)

Class Agent: Bhawna "Teenu” Agarwal-Hebbar teenu@mac.com Class Agent: Anne McIntyre Colclough colcloughanne@hotmail.com Class Agent: Virginia "Gigi” Abel Long gigilong68@yahoo.com Jennifer "Nifer” Hoff Floyd - Hello, Oldfields friends, I think of you all often

and hope you are doing well! I started a small business selling baby clothes, women's accessories, jewelry, and more. Learning to sew, knit, and make silver jewelry at Oldfields during May Program has truly come in handy! Please check out Cartwheel Studio: www.cartwheelstudioco. com. P.S. Go Greens!

David and I and our kids built our own strawbale house 25 years ago and have added solar power, gardens, and an art studio (for me), and recently an orchard (only 18 young trees, but it feels so good). Our three children (in their 30s) are off in the world making it a better place. We love visitors, so if any Oldfields folks are down here, let me know. We have guest rooms.

Eleanor "Pickett” Floyd Fulton '82 - Hi all, I hope everybody is doin' well.

I lost my father in February. It has been a lot to get used to. He was a very big part of my day. But it gets better every day. My boys are getting big. Alexander is 23, still riding his horses. Patrick is 20 and is going to SUMMER 2021

Nifer Hoff Floyd '86's small business, Cartwheel Studio 37

CL A S S N O TE S 1991 Class Agent: Elise "Lelei” Jennings Coyle leleicoyle@gmail.com Class Agent: Allison Goodman Fleitas agfleitas@comcast.net Leslie Falini Young - Leslie was recently profiled in the Temple Gwathmey

Steeplechase Foundation online newsletter for her success as a steeplechase trainer. Leslie launched her training career in 2007, the same year in which she married five-time National Steeplechase Association Champion Paddy Young, with whom she has two children, ages 11 and 12, who are both in the saddle. Leslie trained Andi'amu, 2019's timber champion, and is a familiar figure at all the race meets. Oldfields connections run deep, and one of the owners for whom she currently trains is Carol Atterbury '74. Best of racing luck to you, Leslie!

Pamela "Pam” Irvin Jordan - It's hard to believe I'm old enough to have a daughter in college. My daughter, Sloan, is a freshman at Vanderbilt University. I am now working at Tidelands Orthopedics. We are preparing to have an Airbnb so keep us in mind if you are traveling to Myrtle Beach. I enjoy keeping up on Facebook and Instagram.

1993 Class Agent: Cynthia "Cindy” van der Nat Criscuolo cynthiavandernat@hotmail.com Class Agent: Alice Fendley alicepfendley@gmail.com Class Agent: Jennifer "Jen” Biondi Navarro Jnav13322@gmail.com Class Agent: Ngina Simpson Shulman nginas@yahoo.com Jennifer "Jenni” Carey Baer - Hello, friends! I have my own business selling

over 270,000 promotional products. The products can be imprinted or blank. My company is called Creations Unlimited, Inc. The website is http://creationsunlimited.espwebsite.com/. Email: creationsun@aol.com. I hope everyone is doing well.

Leslie Young and 2019 timber champ Andi'Amu. Photo by Douglas Lees

Jennifer Carey Baer '93

Helen Pitts-Blasi '93 on Rushwin (L) and Leslie Falini Young '91 on Posh By Gosh (R) in the Grand National junior race. Photo by Douglas Lees

1992 Class Agent: Mary Simmons Evans mevans@raypoynor.com Class Agent: Alyssa Boyle Starzyk absmvy2@gmail.com 38

Jennifer Carey Baer '93 OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

1987

1990

Class Agent: Valerie Theberge valerie@theberge.com

Wanda Cole-Frieman - Excited to share that our twins, Isaac and Taylor, graduate high school in June and are off to start their next chapter in the fall (Boston University for Isaac and Berkeley City for Taylor). We will be empty nesters as we head into our 25th year of marriage late August.

Hard to imagine that 25 years ago we tied the knot at Oldfields. Still in Northern California enjoying our adopted city of Oakland and leading the talent acquisition function for a national health system. Pop in if travel brings you this way. Excited to get back on the road and travel in the coming year.

Class Agent: Jill Romanowicz Unruh jillunruh@comcast.net Class Agent: Carolyn Ewing Woods woodsymc@verizon.net Dina DiPalo - Dina helped her niece, Nina Weaver '24, move into Jane House as she started at Oldfields for second semester in January 2021.

Wanda Cole-Frieman '90 and family, October 2020

Dina DiPalo '87 (far left) with niece Nina '24 and her family

1988 Class Agent: Barbara "Babs” Baisley x00bab@hotmail.com Class Agent: Charelle James charelledjames@hotmail.com Class Agent: Kelly Sanders-Karpulk Hollyhillbeagles@yahoo.com

Throwback to Wanda Cole-Frieman '90's wedding day August 17, 1996 at Oldfields Laura Powell - Still working at the Junior League Thrift Shop. Running has

kept me sane during this CRAZY YEAR! SUMMER 2021

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CL A S S N O TE S 1994 Class Agent: Kelly Garrels Goulart kellyggoulart@gmail.com

Jessica Faris Clark - Hello, all my Oldfields Sisters! Love and miss you all!

My husband, Brian and I just bought a house. Our oldest daughter Taylor will be a junior at App State and our youngest Isabella will be in 8th grade. We have four dogs who are spoiled rotten.

1995 Class Agent: Georgia Crawford Nettles georgianettles@gmail.com Class Agent: Brynne Hartley Peck ackdesigns@icloud.com Heidi duPont - I had such fun with my fellow classmates of '95 on our hysterical two-plus hour Zoom call during Alumni Weekend. We had some star candid appearances with Maria calling in from Columbia, Emily joining us from the middle of her family vacation, and Corbett mastered the Zoom app and kept us rolling with laughter. We had a great crew tuned into the call but we missed so many others! We are saving the date for Oldfields Alumni Weekend 2022 in person—let's make it happen, everyone!! If you are a 95-er and would like to add yourself to our email thread, please send me an email at hadupont325@gmail.com, and I will add you into the list! Sending Green and White hugs to everyone as we all forge onward, upward, and out of this apocalyptic mess of time!

Jessica Faris Clark '97, Disney 2021

1996 Class Agent: Meredith Barto Filippini mlfilippini@comcast.net Class Agent: Elizabeth "Blair” Sowers-Seal sowerseb@gmail.com Class Agent: Adrienne Seligman adrienneseligman@gmail.com

1997 Class Agent: Shelley Short Matthews shelleysmatthews@gmail.com Class Agent: Nena Adams Meurlin nenaadams@hotmail.com Class Agent: Holly Perzynski hollyperzynski@hotmail.com Class Agent: Jill Kusner Rowlett jillkusner@gmail.com

Jessica Faris Clark '97, Christmas 2020 Meredith Goldstein Marx - During the spring semester at Oldfields, the

Effective Speaking class has been working with Meredith Marx, mom of current students Casey '25 and Parker '25, to take a look at what it takes to be a radio host! Meredith, a local radio personality here in Baltimore, spent three days working with the students to give them insight on producing various types of radio reports. Our virtual time concluded with a presentation from each student who had the chance to create and produce their own radio spot. Meredith complimented the girls for their enthusiasm, creativity, and hard work.

Class Agent: Wendy Stewart navy2001@mac.com

Meredith Goldstein Marx '97 (upper left) joins The Effective Speaking class via Zoom.

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OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

My twins Casey '25 and Parker '25 have had the best year at Oldfields!

They have loved every moment in this community. We got a pandemic puppy named Louie Bear. He is a 2nd generation puggle and quite active with his big sister, Georgie (also a puggle). They are both big on the social media scene! Lots of fans. It's been a pawsome addition to our family.

Erin Janoff Brooks - I have started a yarn art business. I crochet cat and

dog plushies for families who may have wanted a friend for their furry child or a token of a beloved pet they have lost. I also have crocheted Pokemon, anime characters, and some other basic teddy bears, foxes and/or kids plushies. I love that my passion is able to give back to others.

And know that each crochet plush is made with love!

Meredith Goldstein Marx '97 pandemic puppies, Louie and Georgie, living their best life.

1998 Class Agent: Anna "Anni” Canseco Drinkwine anni@drinkwine.us

1999 Class Agent: Ashley Vizzi Akridge trekfrog@aol.com

2000 Class Agent: Erin Stevens Henrie simplyunutrition@gmail.com Erin Stevens Henrie '00 - Erin Henrie is currently a Clinical Specialist -

Spinal Stimulation at Boston Scientific in Richmond, Virginia.

2001

(left) A Siamese cat made by Erin Janoff Brooks '01 for a friend's sister. She had lost her furry baby and missed her dearly. (right) A spaniel named Chloe made by Erin Janoff Brooks '01. Chloe had to be put down a few months ago. The husband hated seeing his wife heartbroken every night, so he commissioned me to make her a plush of Chloe to help give her a bit of her furry love back.

2002 Class Agent: Rachael Keller Mead rakeller312@yahoo.com Class Agent: Ellen "E.J.” Ruchman eruchman@gmail.com Rachael Keller Mead - Hello, everyone! I am currently working as a

veterinarian and live in Virginia with my husband and beautiful daughter.

We welcomed Claire in July 2020 and could not be more in love. We are so grateful for our good health and wish the same for everyone in the Oldfields community. Go White Team!

Class Agent: Tiffany Blake-Anttonen Blakeanttonen@gmail.com Class Agent: Rosa "Gunter” Davis rgd95_us@yahoo.com Class Agent: Paige Rabalais paige.rabalais@gmail.com Tiffany Blake-Anttonen - Dear Oldfields, I hope everyone is safe. I am

currently living in Atlanta, Georgia, with my husband Ilmo Anttonen. I recently just got my real estate license, and I am doing commercial and residential real rstate. I am in the process of getting my MBA in commercial real estate. If anyone is looking to invest in real estate in Atlanta, do not hesitate to call me. I hope all is well with everyone!

SUMMER 2021

Rachael Keller Mead '02 with her daughter Claire, who she welcomed in July 2020.

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CL A S S N O TE S 2003

2004

Class Agent: Catherine "Cat” Ford cath.ford.341@gmail.com

Class Agent: Marney Babbitt-Pierce marney.babbitt@gmail.com

Class Agent: Brant MacDuff alastair.brant@gmail.com

Class Agent: Courtney Brown Kibblewhite courtneykibbs@gmail.com

Cassandra Fields La Bella - Hey Oldfields! I'm living in Towson with my

Class Agent: Katherine "Kady” McBrearty Paradise kadyparadise@gmail.com

husband, Joe, and daughters Evelyn, eight, and Tilda, four. I'm currently finishing up my ninth year teaching in Baltimore City Schools, and when I'm not generally overthinking everything in life, I'm going on cicada walks with my family to witness the seventeen-year magic unfold.

Marney Babbitt-Pierce celebrated the virtual Alumni Weekend with a couple

classmates over a happy hour Zoom call. Kady McBrearty Paradise '04 keeps busy with her two kids, Riley (six) and Walker (four), and she and her husband enjoy ultra-long running events! Annie Dickerson Eliopoulos '04 joined, sharing she has a little girl who is five, and has stayed quite busy during the pandemic. Amy Campbell '04 and Brant MacDuff '03 were also very happy to reconnect with their classmates on the call. Brant recently moved the jeep out to New York and has really enjoyed adventuring!

Cassandra Fields La Bella '03 and her daughters, Evelyn, 8, and Tilda, 4.

Brant MacDuff '03 - Hey, gang! I'm still slogging away on my little book.

It's about the conservation economy, sustainable eating, and hunting in America. Hopefully it'll be out next year. Whenever I get a release date I'll be sure to beg everyone to buy a copy. I was lucky to have such an engrossing project during the pandemic. When I'm not writing, I'm up in the Catskill Mountains getting some fresh air. I give history tours of the dioramas at the American Museum of Natural History in NYC, too, so if you're ever in the area, let me know!

Marney Babbitt-Pierce '04 (upper right) hosted the class of 2004 happy hour.

In other exciting news, in August I was elected to the Clarkdale, Arizona, Town Council and I am really enjoying serving my community. I am learning all about municipal government and especially issues that affect us all like sewer contracts and zoning issues!! The wine business has been busy during the pandemic, and my husband's winery, Bodega Pierce, was honored with a "hot brand" recognition by Wine Business Monthly. Please come visit if you are in Arizona!

2005 Class Agent: Katelyn "Katie” Hall katelyn.anna.hall@gmail.com Class Agent: Anna Maria Jensen a.maria.jensen@gmail.com Class Agent: Shavonne Ward sreneeward@gmail.com Brant MacDuff '03, Research is fun when you like the books!

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OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

2006

Kate Maddox - I am living in Chicago and am navigating a career change

after managing an Art Gallery for four years. Looking forward to seeing what the next chapter holds and experiencing another Chicago summer!

Class Agent: Phoebe Larner phoebe.larner@gmail.com Class Agent: Madeline "Maddy” Darrell Pahr madelinedarrell@gmail.com Class Agent: Krislyn Payne krislyn.payne@gmail.com

Casey Pinkard Savin - Casey joined the Sport Horse May Program this

spring, showing a group of Oldfields riders the Maryland Hunt Cup Steeplechase course and talking about her experience as a rider after Oldfields. Thank you for sharing, Casey!

Maddy Darrell Pahr - Greetings!! We just hosted our Zoom reunion! It was great to see familiar faces and catch up with everyone. As for me, all is well! I still live in Washington, DC, with my husband (Ryan) and this past year we got a "COVID puppy." His name is Hank, and he is the world's cutest. Hope everyone else is staying well! Xoxoxo

Casey Pinkard Savin '07 joins the 2021 Sport Horse May Program Lauren Simmons - Throughout my riding career I have ridden all,

different breeds but really fell in love and connected with off the track Thoroughbreds the most. I recently launched an equestrian apparel brand called OTTB MAFIA. OTTB is an acronym for off the track Thoroughbred.

Every year thousands of Thoroughbreds who don't make the cut as racehorses are in need of new homes. Luckily there are many rescues across the country that are dedicated to rehoming ex-racehorses and helping them start second careers.

Class of 2006 Zoom Reunion

2007 Class Agent: Catherine "Kate” Maddox catherinemaddox522@gmail.com Clara Bowe - Former faculty Anne Weeks reports that Clara Bowe is doing

"absolutely amazing work in crewel." Her beautiful crewel work for her Baltimore-based company Crewel And Kind "is informed by a Master's degree in Environmental Conservation Education; it is driven by a need to understand and to communicate the beauty of nature and the built environment."

Clara Bowe '07's crewel work

SUMMER 2021

I wanted to create a community based brand for other OTTB enthusiasts like me. OTTB MAFIA has apparel and accessories for riders of all disciplines and backgrounds. As OTTB MAFIA continues to grow I plan on giving back to OTTB rescues and other organizations that support giving ex-racehorses a second chance. Keep an eye out for an article being published soon on Stream Horse TV's website about how my experience at Oldfields molded me into the woman I am today. www.ottbmafia.com IG: ottb_mafia

Lauren Simmons '07

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CL A S S N O TE S 2008 Class Agent: Caitlin "Caitie” Cunningham caitiecunningham@gmail.com Class Agent: Derica Mayfield Jackson Derica08@gmail.com Class Agent: Jennie "Jen” Taylor JennieWestWind@gmail.com

2009 Class Agent: Emily Acle Cardwell emilyaclecardwell@gmail.com Class Agent: Charlotte "Char” Shapiro Enoch CharlotteEnoch18@gmail.com Class Agent: Angelica Jackson angelicaljackson@gmail.com

2010 Class Agent: Elizabeth "Liz” Poston ejposton@outlook.com Class Agent: Maddie Cole Reese mem.reese1010@gmail.com Liz Poston - My bright moment of 2020 is that I'm excited to announce my engagement to Thomas Apperson. I look forward to seeing you all at our 10-year celebration (11 years later).

Ariel Taxdal '10 giving a tour of her family dairy farm, Broom's Bloom to Oldfields students on May Program.

2011 Class Agent: Elizabeth "Liz” Santangelo santange1719@gmail.com Class Agent: Caroline Parks Trout Cpparks18@gmail.com Lauren Engle Bowers - Lauren and her husband Jordan welcomed their son,

Greyson Lee, on May 4, 2021.

2012 Class Agent: Young Louise Goodyear ygoodyear123@gmail.com Class Agent: Alexandra "Ali” Towne towne.ali@comcast.net

2013 Class Agent: Louise Chapman lchapman@gwmail.gwu.edu Class Agent: Danielle Miller daniannie27@yahoo.com Class Agent: Jordan Spivak softballchik1062@aol.com Ashley Carroll - Ashley Carroll came back to Oldfields via Zoom to

Liz Poston '10 and fiancé Thomas Apperson

Ariel Taxdal - Ariel Taxdal showed a group of Oldfields students on this spring's May Program, Outdoor Service and Adventure, through her family-run active dairy farm, Broom's Bloom. Ariel is also a nursing student while working on the farm. The Oldfields students were so impressed with Ariel and the hard work she does every day. Thank you for sharing, Ariel!

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speak with the Class of 2021 at 100 Nights to Graduation. She fondly remembers At-Home Nights, her advisor Mrs. Karen Miller, and wearing the tiger costume as the White Team Spirit. Eight years post-graduation she states, "More than anything, Oldfields taught me resiliency, which only strengthened through college and serves me well in my professional career now. I have learned that it's really okay to make mistakes, because those mistakes will guide you to learn more." Her message resonated deeply with our seniors in this unprecedented year.

2014 Class Agent: Charlotte Mayer cbmayer20@gmail.com Class Agent: Emma Preston egp@emmagracepreston.com OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

2015

Mara Golding-Powers - I graduated from Chapman University in 2019 with

a BS in business management and am currently studying at the University of San Diego's Masters of Education teaching program.

Class Agent: Remy Branscum remy.branscum@gmail.com

Shin Hae Lee - Hi, this is Korean alumna from 2015, Shin Hae Lee and

Class Agent: Cameron "Cam” Brooks-Miller brooksmillerc@gmail.com

it's very nice to send you my class note. So far, I have been taking online Shoreline Community College (which is in Seattle) classes at my home in Korea. Before COVID-19 spread, I took in-person class at my school. After the pandemic, I came back to Korea and feel safer here.

Class Agent: Vana Jovic vjovic55@gmail.com Class Agent: Barrett Pitcher bpitcher2950@gmail.com Class Agent: Carl Weinstein wcarly123@yahoo.com Bianca Garzozi Puig - Driving, smelling, and seeing Oldfields one more

time was amazing. I was feeling young again, so many memories and stories came back to me! I will always call Oldfields my second home, the place that made me the woman I am today, loyal, faithful, smart and honest! Thank you, Oldfields Class of 2015!

Bianca Garzozi Puig '15 visiting campus in January 2021 Dalvida Palmer - Dalvida

Palmer '15 came back virtually via Zoom to speak to the Class of 2021 at 100 Nights to Graduation. The former All-School President traveled to West Africa as a community health educator for the Peace Corps after getting her degree in political science. Her leadership qualities were evident as she shared valuable insights with her Oldfields family. "Six identity questions I ask myself every week: Who do you care for? Show it. What Dalvida Palmer '15 betters you? Do it. What bothers you? Address it. What do you fear? Challenge it. What do you believe in? Know it. What do you value? Embody it. As long as I know the answers to those, then I know who I am."

SUMMER 2021

For online spring quarter class at SCC this year, I'm taking English 101, which is a college-level language class. I took and passed level 8 of ESL for winter quarter 2021. For me, English 101 is half easy, half hard. Because I wasn't born and raised in the States, I think that English is still my 2nd language. Therefore, sometimes it's tricky.

Although sometimes it's not quite easy, I have always done my best. My plan for the near future is Shin Hae Lee '15 keeps a close connection I'm going to take online to Oldfields SCC class in Korea until this year, and then when 2022 comes, I'm going to transfer to a community college in the east coast. Even though Seattle is a wonderful place as well, I think that east coast has a deep connection with me, so it feels more like family to me. My family and I lived in Boston when I was a little girl (I mentioned this on my senior presentation paper when I was a senior at Oldfields) and my high school, Oldfields, is in the east as well.

Those are why I'm not planning to live in Washington State anymore.

When I will be eligible to do my major study in the near future, I'm considering choosing my career as a fairy tale author. The reason is I think it's fit for my aptitude. I love fictional characters, such as Hello Kitty, Moomin, Miffy. I like searching and collecting the images of any of those characters. Also, I think that language is extremely important in our lives because we always interact with each other. When I become a fairy tale author, I have no idea if my status will be able to have a high income, but I think it's one of the stable jobs.

Because COVID-19 is still not yet completely gone, I don't think it's available to visit Oldfields for a while. For the pandemic to be completely gone, it seems that it would take 2 or 3 years. Gladly, I got both 1st and 2nd dose of COVID-19 vaccine (in the States when I was there recently.

My sister and I recently went and stayed in the country for some reason).

Really hope other alumni from and everyone who is currently at Oldfields are safe.

I don't know if my English writing for Class Notes for school magazine looks very good, but hope everyone like it. Always appreciate your kindness.

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2016

2020

Class Agent: Katharine "Kate” Driscoll katehdriscoll@gmail.com

Class Agent: Ashley Glezer peaceash30@gmail.com

Class Agent: Samantha "Sam” Frazier camsosa16@gmail.com

Class Agent: Daejarie Jones Daejarie.j@gmail.com

Class Agent: Margaret "Ali” Hickman mhickman@wightfoundation.com

Class Agent: Patricia "Fern” Peva pfpeva@gmail.com

Class Agent: Elisabeth "Lissie” Obrecht Obrechtlis@gmail.com

Class Agent: Rebekah Turner rebekahcturner@icloud.com

Class Agent: Kathleen "Katie” Walsh Kewalsh@eckerd.edu

Class Agent: Claire Webne clairewbn@gmail.com Katie Walsh - Hey, guys! Just wanted

Katie Walsh '16, her grandmother,

and her mother

to update people. Like most of my class I got the great joy of graduating from Eckerd online! I am also proud to announce that in September I moved to York, England, to pursue my masters at University of York and adopted a little kitten, my August! Sorry I'm going to be missing the reunion!

Also, mom and grandma are doing great! Hope everyone is doing okay during these tough times!

Vivian Love - It is crazy to think that I am about to wrap up my freshman year of college, I feel like I was just sitting in Morning Meeting! I am super grateful to have spent my entire year on the High Point University campus with no remote classes. My family is planning to spend the summer in North Carolina, which is totally okay. I loveeee this state! I also have an internship and job lined up this summer with Speedway Motorsports in their corporate sales department at Charlotte Motor Speedway and am on track to be studying abroad next year in Seville, Spain!

Past Faculty and Staff Edith Hustvedt - Not much to report due to COVID-19! Still here and in

pretty good shape for 89! I can't believe it has been 52 years since we left Chicken Hill! Where does the time go? Best to all there!

Jane Spencer - Joe and I are loving

2017 Class Agent: Elyse Bruzdzinski elysebruz@gmail.com Class Agent: Kayla Lewis Kaylalewis4567@gmail.com Class Agent: Megan May Rivera mer2220@barnard.edu

2018 Class Agent: Ineza Louise 443-591-1548 Class Agent: Kayla Sherwin sherwinkayla@gmail.com Class Agent: Yushan "Wendy” Wu Wuyushan1999@gmail.com

2019 Class Agent: Kennedy Green green.kennedy19@gmail.com Class Agent: Daphne Liu daphne.liu@me.com

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retirement, and the dogs love having us home. Our big excitement was that our Grand Champion Old English Sheepdog, Philomena (we call her Phillie), whelped six puppies on December 20th.

Anne and Jim Weeks - Jim and I are

living in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. We have been fortunate to have some Jane Spencer and her puppies Oldfields people visit - Sven Jensen P'05, Taylor Smith, Grace Smythe '05, the Rabinowitzes P'05, and Katherine Richardson '04. We would love to have others stop by. Jim continues to write, having recently completed a screenplay about Wyatt Earp, in retirement. He meets with a group of men at the pub weekly, where they solve the world's problems (pre-COVID, of course). I am still doing college counseling part-time with a company in Shanghai. I have developed a love for photography and often look to both Bob Creamer and Katya Chilingiri for inspiration. We have a darling Jack Russell terrier named Murphie, who hikes with me on trails and on the beaches, whom we adopted from Pauline Combe-Clark '73, an Oldfields alumna and Green Team member. Our son, Jed, is married and has a little one on the way, still living in Baltimore and engrossed in social justice issues. A few years ago, we visited with Nancy Maslack Wolf and Aina Herbert Hunter '91. We do miss our Oldfields family.

Former faculty Jim and Anne Weeks OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

IN MEM O R I A M SANDY GAMBER DECEMBER 5, 1947 – MAY 5, 2021

“She was a once-in-a-lifetime woman.”

By Director of Stewardship Anne Ragland Finney P'97 People of all ages, and especially children, were strongly drawn to Sandy by her endearing and warm personality. Her reputation as one of the kindest people who has ever lived remains strong at Oldfields.

In 2007, Sandy transitioned to the position of school receptionist, welcoming guests and visitors with her signature graciousness and kindliness. Throughout the day, both students and adults would make their way to the front parlor of Old House to visit with her; sometimes to share their news; sometimes to ask her advice; and almost always to seek the warm support that only Sandy could give. She was beloved by all and remained devoted to Oldfields until health issues caused her to retire in 2016.

Sandy came to Oldfields in 1980 to start an afternoon program for the three-yearolds at the Oldfields Country Day Nursery (later to be called the Oldfields Children's Center). Her program was so successful that, at the request of the parents, Sandy began a similar program for four-yearolds, followed the next year by a Kindergarten Program.

No one who met Sandy Gamber came away untouched by her gentle, approachable, good-natured warmth. She was a once-in-alifetime woman, and she will be remembered by all who knew her at Oldfields with the greatest of affection and admiration.

Sandy remained in her role as Assistant Director and kindergarten teacher until the Oldfields Children's Center opened as a full-time child care center in 1985.

In 1986, Sandy became the Administrative Director, a role in which she excelled for over two decades.

IN MEMORIAM Joan Benkard Jackson '51 February 14, 2021

Sarah Trattner Lazer '00 February 19, 2021

Sanford "Sandy" Nevens June 14, 2021

Ruth Sizer Marshall '54 November 24, 2020

Past Faculty and Friends

Harriet Austen Stokes Iglehart July 1, 2021

Elizabeth Cumming Dartt '55 February 13, 2021 Marion Hauck Robbins '56 October 23, 2020

SUMMER 2021

Margaret Nevens Pulliam March 14, 2021 Sandra E. Gamber May 5, 2021

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SARAH TRATTNER LAZER ‘00 JULY 21, 1981 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

“Simply put. Oldfields was the world to Sarah.”

By Grant Lazer Sarah proudly told everyone about Oldfields and how much the school meant to her. She fondly reminisced about starring in musicals, her World War II May Program trip to Europe, and snuggling up with her roommates for movie nights. She would also try, but could never find the right words, to describe what it felt like to walk down the hill barefoot for Graduation.

She would often remind me she played both field hockey and basketball and warned me when we played 1- on -1 that she was going to kick my butt thanks to her Oldfields skills. There was always a funny story to tell about what it was like living at an all-girls boarding school. My personal favorite to hear was the one time her whole class was sent back to their rooms for self-study because they were all too testy from their hormones, and the teacher could not handle it.

Oldfields also gave Sarah one of the greatest gifts she would ever receive. Two sisters, Águeda "Aggie” Ramirez ‘00 and Claire Gershon Trapp '00 (both members of the Green Team). They were her rock. Anytime the three of them were in a room together there was this indescribable energy. You could feel it, along with the love and devotion they had, and still have, for each other. It is truly one-of-a-kind. These women are godmothers to our children and are now my sisters too.

Sarah was fortunate to have a place where she felt safe and loved while developing into the amazing woman that she became. She

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gained a sisterhood and a family from Oldfields, but it was the strength, courage, confidence, and self-worth that she learned that truly shaped who she was as a friend, a daughter, a wife, and a mother.

When Sarah was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer in the fall of 2019, she used that strength and courage to help her fight and stay positive. Her Oldfields family immediately reached out and gave her so much love and support. She was truly touched by all the messages and letters of encouragement she received.

Finally, to say Sarah was an inspiration to all is an understatement. Her positive attitude and radiant smile through her journey left everyone she encountered in awe. She loved her friends and family immensely, but it was her children, Henry and Charlotte, into whom she poured every ounce of her soul. She was, and always will be, their Mama Bear. She protected them, loved them, and ensured they would have whatever they needed to succeed in life. The life she lived was truly amazing, with the two of them as her absolute crowning achievement. It is with certainty I can say her Oldfields loyalty and legacy will live on through the two of them forever.

Claire and Aggie created an email account for people to share memories/ storiesanecdotes of Sarah for Henry and Charlotte to read when they're older.

Feel free to send something to sarahslovetrust@gmail.com.

OLDFIELDS MAGAZINE

It’s a tie for the Green and White Teams.

The final numbers for the fiscal year ended June 30 show the Green Team has the most donors, but the White Team had the most dollars!

A huge "thank you" to all who contributed.

Every dollar raised has a direct impact on today’s students. The Oldfields Fund supports financial aid; academic programming; diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives; student activities; faculty professional development, and much more.

Show your support of Oldfields and give your team a head start by making your 2021-2022 gift today! www.OldfieldsSchool.org/give The 2021-2022 Oldfields Fund runs from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022.

Register at www.OldfieldsSchool.org

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