Pallium Spring/Summer 2020

PA L LI U M Canterbury School

H      C     

IN THIS ISSUE 17

CELEBRATING THE GREAT CLASS OF 2020

31

MAKING AN IMPACT FOR YEARS TO COME

36 46

This graduating class has become a part of history.

Several students from the Class of 2020 have taken an active role to build and participate in the School community and the world beyond.

MEETING OUR STUDENTS WHERE THEY ARE This unprecedented spring, Canterbury shifted to distance learning and online experiences for our students—and our sense of community has never been stronger.

OUR ROADMAP TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION Canterbury’s renewed commitment to a transformative and inclusive experience for all.

DEPARTMENTS

COVER PHOTOS Left to right, top to bottom 1.

The Montana Leadership Trip led by trustee John ’59 and Dana Donovan kicked off the 2019-20 school year in August 2019 for select Sixth Formers. The 2019 trip included (left to right) Gabriel Diamond, Abigail Omaña, MaryBridget Horvath, JiWon Lee, Ryan Greguski, Erin Sudbey, Isabella Cotier, Justin Schneider, Nicholas Vial, Joseph Ciotti, Maeve O’Donnell, and Grace LaVigne.

2.

The student-faculty handshake at the annual Sixth Form Dinner in September was especially meaningful for the Class of 2020.

3.

Sixth Form Council members Abigail Omaña, Griffin Duffy, Griffin Fillios, Sabrina Capodicci, Jackson Zavatsky, Jack McCluskey, Venessa Okoroanyanwu, and Brigida Caruso celebrate the groundbreaking of the Steers Center in October.

4.

The annual Pink Out volleyball match to support breast cancer research packed Pigott Arena in October.

5.

Megan LeBlanc ’20, Molly Clancy ’20, Andrew Mancini ’20, and Zachary Riccitelli ’20 attend the annual Gunnery Day Pep Rally and bonfire in November.

6.

Team captains Cecilia Poli ’20 and Isabella Cotier ’20 hold up the Girls’ Varsity Soccer Team’s NEPSAC Class C Championship trophy after their win in November.

7.

Ryan Greguski ’20, Nicholas Vial ’20, Chiara Vaccaro ’20, and Abigail Omaña ’20 brought the characters of Mr. Green, The Butler, Mrs. Black, and Mrs. Peacock to life in December’s winter production of Clue.

8.

Sacristans Jack Cassidy ’20, Kenneth Marici ’20, Abigail Omaña ’20, and Cecilia Poli ’20 enter the Chapel of Our Lady for Lessons & Carols in December.

9.

Griffin Fillios ’20 shows off his dance moves during January’s Canterbury Games in the field house.

10. Venessa Okoroanyanwu ‘20 helped lead seminars and discussions during Canterbury’s second annual Social Justice Week in January.

11.

Boys’ Varsity Basketball MVP and team captain Trayvon Alexander ’20 helped lead his team to the Class B Championship in March.

12.

Qiyuan Wang ‘20 plays guitar at March’s Canterbury Past and Present III Music Fest.

13.

Sixth Formers show off their college t-shirts over Zoom in May.

5 From the Head of School 6 New to the Hilltop 8 Hilltop Happenings 12

Academic Spotlight

50 Advancement 60 Society of Alumni

14. Canterbury celebrates its 103rd—and first virtual— Commencement Exercises in May. 15. Faculty painted the initials of each member of the graduating class on the rock by Sheehy Family Field.

65 Class Notes 70 In Memorium

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

Photo by Grace LaVigne ’20. Grace lives on campus in faculty housing and documented many beautiful evening skies during her last spring as a student on the hilltop. Her photos capture the quiet and stillness of campus during that time. Here, the sun sets over an empty Sheehy Family Field in March.

PAGE 3.

PA L LI U M SPRING/SUMMER 2020

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER Rick Henderson

2020—2021

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Jennifer Loprinzo ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Brittany Carlson

Mr. Robert H. Steers ’71, P ’11 | President Mr. John A. Donovan ’59 | Vice President Mr. Michael R. Carretta ’71 | Secretary Mrs. Rachel E. Stone P ’23, ’24 | Head of School/Treasurer Mr. Peter J. Cotier ’86, P ’19, ’20 | Assistant Secretary

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS STAFF WRITER Kelly Slonaker

Ms. Dorothy L. Alpert ’78

PHOTOGRAPHY Rick Giles

Mrs. Karen B. Casey ’91

CONTRIBUTING WRITER Meredith Berry-Toon

860.210.3800

CBURY.ORG/ALUMNI

Mr. Keith G. Angell ’75 Ms. Carol Lovell Carmody P ’18 Mr. Harold T. Clark III ’86, P ’22 Mr. Matthew P. Dwyer Jr. ’71 Mr. Douglas M. Famigletti ’90 Mr. Kevin Fee P ’18, ’19, ’21, ’23 Mr. Sean F. Flanagan ’91, P ’23 Dr. Anna Flik P ’21

SEND ALUMNI NEWS TO

DEADLINES FOR CLASS NOTES

Mr. Lawrence P. Fisher II ’77

ADVANCEMENT OFFICE Canterbury School 101 Aspetuck Avenue New Milford, CT 06776 advancement@cbury.org

FALL–JANUARY 1 SPRING–JULY 1

Mrs. Mary Coleman Lynn ’90, P ’23

Mr. Theodore C. Hollander ’82 Ms. Nancy B. Mulheren P ’03, ’13, GP ’24 Mr. H. Nicholas Ragland ’88, P ’21 Mrs. Nicole D’Amour Schneider ’93, P ’20, ’22, ’23 Ms. Lauren J. Steers P ’11 Mr. Peter J. Tucker ’78 Mrs. Nell P. Williams ’81

instagram.com/canterbury1915 twitter.com/cburynews facebook.com/canterburyschoolct vimeo.com/canterbury1915 PALLIUM is produced bi-annually by Canterbury’s Marketing & Communications Office, 101 Aspetuck Avenue, New Milford, CT 06776 NON-DISCRIMINATION Canterbury School does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, age, creed, national origin, age, sexual orientation or disability in admission or employment in its programs and activities. ©Copyright 2020 Canterbury School. All rights reserved. No content from this publication may be reproduced or reprinted in any form without the express written consent of Canterbury School.

TRUSTEES EMERITI Mr. Daniel J. Altobello ’59 Mr. James R. Briggs ’56, GP ’12, ’15 Mrs. Hope Carter P ’86, ’87, ’88, ’91,’95, GP ’09, ’10, ’14 Mr. Denis P. Coleman Jr. ’63, P ’97 Mr. Donn C. Dolce ’63, P ’01 Mr. John P. Duffy ’59, P ’87, ’91 Mr. John D. O’Neill ’57, P ’89 Dr. L. Michael Sheehy ’56

Please recycle this PALLIUM or share with a friend.

From the Head of School

T

he final months of the spring semester are always memorable on our hilltop, replete with joyful Sixth

Form traditions, final artistic performances and athletic contests, and moments for seniors to engage in those “last” conversations with friends and faculty in the dining hall and dorm common rooms. They culminate in the tradition of Commencement, the satisfaction and pride of earning a Canterbury diploma, the departing drive down Aspetuck Avenue, and the excitement of college matriculations. And before the quiet summer months take hold, alumni light up the campus in early June as they arrive for long-awaited reunions with old friends and classmates.

As we know, with the arrival of the pandemic in March, this spring took a significant turn—a turn that was felt sharply by our Class of 2020, who were eagerly anticipating the pinnacle moments of their Canterbury journey. Yet, as quickly as their disappointment and frustration came, so did their resilience and strength.

Their character and compassion became highly evident as we moved through the last few months of the school year—amid a global health crisis intertwined with a national call for racial justice—and their leadership and initiative have forever raised the bar for classes to come. Most of all, they pushed our collective gratitude for our community to an entirely new level.

We offer this issue of Pallium in celebration of the extraordinary Class of 2020.

It is a collection of thoughts and images; tributes to award winners and academic, artistic, and athletic achievements; and a reprise of heartfelt and inspirational Commencement messages. It details how their bonds and connections remained strong, even from a distance, as they and their teachers made the remarkable shift to virtual learning. It applauds how they transformed their passions into purpose, strengthening the student experience and sense of belonging on our hilltop.

As we read the stories of our community chronicled in this issue, stories which also herald the work of our alumni battling COVID-19 on the frontlines of healthcare and dedicating their life’s work to racial equity, we are reminded of the profound relevance of Canterbury’s mission—to inspire moral leaders in a complex, secular world. Indeed, the need for well-educated, ethically minded, compassionate, and inclusive leaders has never been greater.

With continuing best wishes for your health and safety … and Godspeed to the great Class of 2020!

Rachel E. Stone P ’23, ’24 Head of School

PAGE 5.

NEW TO THE HILLTOP MARY COLEMAN LYNN ’90, P ’23 JOINS BOARD OF TRUSTEES

M

ary joins the Board following a rich history of involvement with the School. She attended

Canterbury, having graduated in 1990, as did her five brothers and two nephews, and her daughter, Olivia, is currently in her Fourth Form year. Mary earned a B.F.A. from New York School of Interior Design, NY, and started her company, Mary Lynn Coleman Interiors, in 2008. She serves on the Admission and Advancement Board Committees. She also has been appointed to the School’s newly formed Community Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee, which includes broad representation from the extended Canterbury family.

Mary and her husband Robert live with their four children, Connor, Whitney, Owen, and Olivia ’23 in Lloyd Harbor, NY.

“ It truly is an honor and a privilege to be invited to join the Canterbury

Board of Trustees. My three years as a student have had such a profound impact on my life and many of my family members’ lives. I was thrilled

when our daughter, Olivia, decided to apply. My heart is full, knowing that she will benefit from the same transformative experience and will be living and learning in an environment set apart by its Five Values of Compassion, Honesty, Respect, Self-reliance, and Spirituality. The strength of Rachel’s leadership and the unparalleled commitment of the Trustees are charting a very exciting course for the School, and I look forward to contributing to the work of this exceptional team.

PAGE 6.

”

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

— MARY COLEMAN LYNN ’90, P ’23

NEW FACULTY MEMBERS

Canterbury welcomed four new faculty members in 2020 spanning several departments.

We’re thrilled to have their talents and passion at work here.

Charlie Gaetjens

Tom Hamilton

Devon McCormick

Edward Ogundeko

MATHEMATICS

HISTORY AND SOCIAL SCIENCE

THEOLOGY

HISTORY AND SOCIAL SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY

Charlie Gaetjens is a faculty

Tom Hamilton joins the

Devon McCormick is a

Edward Ogundeko joined

member in the Mathematics

History and Social Science

member of the Theology

Canterbury in early 2020 and

Department. Previously, he

Department after an eight-

Department and takes on the

is a member of the History and

worked at Compass in New

year stint at The Winchendon

newly created role of Director

Social Science Department, as

York and represented clients on

School, MA, where he

of Campus Ministry. Devon

well as assistant coach of Boys’

residential and commercial real

taught history and worked

earned a B.S. in Psychology

Varsity Basketball. In addition to

estate transactions. Before that,

as an Associate Director of

from Angelo State University,

teaching and coaching, he works

he worked at American Express

Admission and the Director

TX, and an M.A. in Pastoral

in the Technology Department,

in New York, Phoenix, London,

of International Recruitment.

Ministry from Boston College’s

and is a dorm parent in

and Singapore. After graduating

Tom earned a B.A. in History

School of Theology and

Havemeyer House. Prior to

from college, Charlie taught

from Yale University, CT, and

Ministry, MA. She is working

Canterbury, Edward worked as

math and Spanish for two years

an M.A. from Boston College,

on a Doctoral degree in

a Media Sales Representative at

at The Knox School in St.

MA, where he majored in

Ministry at Fordham University,

HomeAdvisor in New York City.

James, New York. In college,

Diplomatic and Cultural

NY. Devon most recently

A graduate of Proctor Academy,

he ran track and participated

History and minored in Middle

worked as Campus Minister for

NH, he received his B.A. in

in Hamilton’s Academic Year

East Comparative Politics.

Sacred Heart University, CT,

Political Science from Trinity

in Spain program. Charlie

Tom played lacrosse at Yale

and as a Pastoral Associate at

College, CT, where he played

holds a B.A. in Economics and

and will be an assistant lacrosse

St. Gregory the Great Parish

basketball all four years. Edward

Spanish from Hamilton College,

coach here at Canterbury. He

in Danbury, CT. She lives off

then went on to obtain his M.A.

NY, and an M.B.A. from Yale

resides and is a dorm parent in

campus in Danbury, with her

in Technology Management

University, CT. He lives in

Carmody House.

husband Mike and son Logan.

from Central Connecticut State

Sheehan House with his dog

University, CT, where he played

Dexter and coaches Boys’

football for one year. Edward

JV Soccer.

grew up in Brooklyn, NY, and now lives on campus.

PAGE 7.

H ILLTOP HAPP ENINGS

School and League Awards

Sacristans and Sixth Form Council Members Announced

HONOR WINTER VARSITY ATHLETES

A

thletic Awards were presented to students during a virtual School Meeting on Thursday, April 9, 2020, to recognize outstanding varsity athletes over the winter term. Director of Athletics Jim Stone led the announcements, including NEPSAC All-League postseason recognition. Each varsity coach recorded a special video message to their team, expressing their pride in the season’s performance and how much they miss the players, and then presented select members with an MVP Award and Coach’s Award.

FOR 2020-21 ACADEMIC YEAR

H Coach Katie Mandigo presented the Girls’ Hockey MVP Award to Autumn Mish ’21 and the Coach’s Award to Grace LaVigne ’20.

Giselle Bradshaw

Lexah Caraluzzi

Colleena Healy

Torin Kearney

Abigayle King

Maximilian Oeser

Ella Olcese

Margaret Ondrey

SACRISTAN

SACRISTAN

SACRISTAN

SACRISTAN AND SIXTH FORM COUNCIL

SACRISTAN

SACRISTAN AND SIXTH FORM COUNCIL

SACRISTAN

SACRISTAN

H Coach Paddy McCarthy presented the Boys’ Hockey MVP Award to Andrew Mancini ’20 and the Coach’s Award to Andrew Kessing ’20.

H Coach Kevin Conroy presented the Wrestling MVP Award to Sean Quaye ’21 and the Coach’s Award to Natale Frangione ’21. Natale, who placed third in his weight class at Nationals as a first-time wrestler, also earned AllNew England Honorable Mention from the New England Private School Athletic Council (NEPSAC).

H Coach Amy Omaña ’86 presented the Girls’ Squash MVP Award to Sydney Ragland ’21 and the Coach’s Award to Victoria Congdon ’20 and Gillian Marma ’20. The team won the coveted Team Sportsmanship Award at this year’s National competition.

H Coach Raheem Logan ’12 presented the Boys’ Squash MVP Award to Justin Schneider ’20 and the Coach’s Award to Elliot Cantor ’23 and Torin Kearney ’21.

Sydney Ragland

Ju Yeon Cho

Na’Sah Dabbs

Ryan Fee

Lily Greenwood

Sean Quaye

SACRISTAN

SIXTH FORM COUNCIL

SIXTH FORM COUNCIL

SIXTH FORM COUNCIL

SIXTH FORM COUNCIL

Katherine Delamere SIXTH FORM COUNCIL

SIXTH FORM COUNCIL

T

he positions of Sacristan and Sixth Form Council member are two of the most respected and highly regarded student leadership positions at Canterbury, available for students to apply as they enter into their Sixth Form year. Personal character, demonstrated faith, and exemplary leadership qualities define those Sixth Formers who earn these positions, as they help create the student culture at the School.

Rising Sixth Formers who have been named as Sacristans include: Giselle Bradshaw, Lexah Caraluzzi, Colleena Healy, Torin Kearney, Abigayle King, Maximilian Oeser, Ella Olcese, Margaret Ondrey, and Sydney Ragland.

Members of the 2020-21 Sixth Form Council include: Ju Yeon Cho, Na’Sah Dabbs, Katherine Delamere, Ryan Fee, Lily Greenwood, Maximilian Oeser, Ella Olcese, and Sean Quaye.

Congratulations to all our rising Sixth Formers who were selected for leadership positions for the 2020-21 academic year!

H Coach Christine Harding presented awards to the Girls’ and Boys’ Swimming and Diving teams. Anabelle Pernerewski ’21 received the Girls’ Swimming and Diving MVP Award after she broke the School swimming record and earned first place and a NEPSAC All-New England Class C title in the 50m Free and 100m Breaststroke. Anna Imrie ’20 was presented with the Girls’ Swimming and Diving Coach’s Award. The Boys’ Swimming and Diving MVP Award went to Ryan Greguski ’20, who broke the School’s—and his own—diving record several times this season. The Boys’ Swimming and Diving Coach’s Award was given to Logan Sanford ’22. Samuel Tscheppe ’21 earned a NEPSAC All-New England Class C title in the 50m Free.

H Coach E.J. Soifersmith presented the Girls’ Basketball MVP Award to Megan LeBlanc ’20, who also received NEPSAC All-League postseason recognition as a New England Class C All-Star. The Don K. Gowan III Basketball Award—for the players who best embody the integrity, respect, and sportsmanship Don Gowan expected of his Canterbury Basketball team—was awarded to Cecelia Poli ’20 and Emma Gambardella ’20.

The team was also awarded the Team Sportsmanship Award by NEPSAC. H Coach Brian Baudinet, who was named NEPSAC Class B Coach of the Year for the second year in a row, presented the Boys’ Basketball MVP Award to Trayvon Alexander ’20. The Don K. Gowan III Basketball Award was given to Michael Iuzzolino ’20 and Michael Graham ’20.

The team won the New England Class B Championship in March, and several players were recognized for their outstanding achievements on the court. Trayvon Alexander ’20, Sean Durugordon ’21, and Michael Iuzzolino ’20 were named First Team All-New England Class B, and Michael Graham ’20 and Marlon Short ’20 received Honorable Mention. Charles Campbell ’20 was named the NEPSAC Class B Tournament MVP. Go, Saints!

PAGE 8.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

Underform Awards HONOR STUDENTS FOR THE 2019-20 YEAR AND KICK-OFF VIRTUAL COMMENCEMENT WEEK

T

he Underform Awards Assembly took place virtually on the evening of May 18, 2020, to honor Third, Fourth, and Fifth Formers for their academic achievements and extracurricular leadership in the 2019-20 academic year. Held in Maguire Auditorium, the assembly was attended via Zoom by students and was livestreamed for faculty, family members, and friends.

Head of School Rachel Stone addressed the community in her opening remarks and expressed gratitude to the faculty and to students and their families for embracing and excelling despite the unpredictable circumstances this spring. Rachel also referenced several highlights of the year as well as growth exhibited by the entire student body:

“So as we celebrate success and noteworthy performance this evening, please remember that these awards are an acknowledgment of excellent, persistent work…but not a definition of where you stand, or who you are, as students and people.”

H Claire Kessing ’22 and Bryce Stone ’23 were selected for The Nicholas DiTullio Award ’01, presented each year to a girl and boy from the Third or Fourth Form who competes at the sub-varsity level and has demonstrated a love for and dedication to athletics.

H The Dr. Nelson Hume Speech Competition Awards were presented to the winners of the Underform Speech Competition. Lily LaVigne ’23 won for the Third Form, Isabella Carioscia ’22 for the Fourth Form, Fatima Nda-Isaiah ’21 for the Fifth Form, and Maximilian Oeser ’21 was presented the award for Outstanding Speaker of 2020.

H Qixiu Yao ’22 was presented the Gerald A. and Therese J. Vanasse Choral Music Award. Given by the family and friends of Mr. and Mrs. Vanasse, the award is presented to the student who has demonstrated the highest level of leadership. Mr. Vanasse served as school organist, choral club accompanist, glee club director, music director of spring musicals, and shared his love of music with Canterbury students from 1960 to 1990.

H For excellence in the study of vocal performance, the Stephen N. ’43 and Lacey Hume Award was presented to Fatima Nda-Isaiah ’21.

The award was given in memory of Trustee Emeritus and son of Canterbury’s founding Headmaster, Stephen ’43, and his wife, Lacey.

H The George Washington University Book Award was presented to Torin Kearney ’21. The award is presented to a student in the Fifth Form who embodies the George Washington drive and spirit, specific to their academic excellence, leadership outside of the classroom, diversity of thought, and ability to put knowledge into action.

H In recognition of the value that the St. Lawrence community places on service to others, the St. Lawrence University Book Award honors the achievements of a student who has displayed significant commitment to community service.

The award was presented to Katherine Delamere ’21.

H Given to a student in the Fifth Form with significant academic potential and a commitment to making a difference in their school community, the Smith College Award was presented to Jia Yi Ji ’21.

H Awarded to a student in the top ten percent of the Fifth Form whose academic performance in advanced math and science courses has been outstanding, who demonstrates the potential for success in a

challenging academic setting, and exhibits significant involvement in extracurricular activities, the Rensselaer Award was presented to Yurou Li ’21.

H The Dartmouth College Book Award, presented to a student in the Fifth Form who is in the top ten percent of the class, who has demonstrated strong character, has made a positive contribution to the school community and has excelled in at least one non-academic area, was awarded to Lexah Caraluzzi ’21.

H Presented to a student in the Fifth Form who combines excellence in academics with significant achievement in extracurricular endeavor, the Harvard College Book Award was presented to Sandra Xu ’21.

H Lorelai Lee Swanek ’21 was awarded the University of Pennsylvania Book Award. The award is presented to a student in the Fifth Form who is ranked near the top five percent of the class, is enrolled in the most rigorous academic program, demonstrates leadership in athletics and the school community, and is highly respected by peers and faculty for high personal and academic integrity.

H Members of the Fifth Form class who earned a cumulative GPA of highest honors, are enrolled in a rigorous academic program, and challenge the most demanding courses in at least three disciplines were inducted into the Honor Society. Those students included Giselle Bradshaw, Lexah Caraluzzi, Katherine Delamere, Katherine Hawley, Jia Yi Ji, Torin Kearney, Yurou Li, Ella Olcese, Yishan Shi, Lorelai Lee Swanek, Sebastian Tseng, Andrew Xu, Kai Xu, and Sandra Xu. H The final awards of the evening were the Roderick Clarke ’46 Distinguished Academic Achievement Awards, given by the Class of 1956 in memory of former Headmaster Rod Clarke ’46. It is awarded annually to the member of each class with the highest cumulative GPA. Lily LaVigne received the award for the Third Form, Hanyan Cai for the Fourth Form, and Sandra Xu for the Fifth Form.

The ceremony concluded with two musical performances by the Canterbury Chorale, “Imagine” and “Hallelujah.”

Congratulations, Saints!

PAGE 9.

H ILLTOP HAPP ENINGS

Andrew Flood, Ph.D. ’82, Lends His Expertise in Epidemiology

Epidemiology for the Community with Head of School Rachel Stone

T

his spring, Rachel Stone taught a weekly webinar series open to students, faculty, parents, alumni, and trustees titled Epidemiology for the Canterbury Community. Rachel received her B.A. in biology from Yale University, CT, and went on to earn an M.P.H. in the Sociomedical Sciences track with a focus on Health Promotion/Disease Prevention from Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, NY. She completed a course at the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and designed and taught a class on epidemiology for juniors and seniors at her previous school.

Rachel, who started her independent school journey as a teacher, was enthusiastic to get back in the (virtual) classroom. Over the course of four live webinar sessions, Rachel shared her knowledge of the field to offer some foundational elements of epidemiology and public health that could serve as a resource during this unprecedented time. The series was well-attended by over 100 community members and sparked lively discussions. Canterbury’s Director of Health Services Colleen Cook, R.N. ’02 helped lead the seminars and field questions. Originally intending to participate only as an attendee, Andrew Flood, Ph.D. ’82 was often invited by Rachel to share his vast knowledge of the epidemiology field and his understanding of the current pandemic situation.

Andrew is currently Director of Data Science at UnitedHealth Group and former professor of epidemiology at the University of Minnesota, MN.

PAGE 10.

The series covered a range of topics within the realm of epidemiology, starting with the “Father of Epidemiology,” John Snow, and continuing through COVID-19. Topics included the discipline of epidemiology, which covered its origins and laid the foundation for current data and understanding of diseases; the public health framework, which discussed primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention, and an overview of the public health infrastructure and health determinants; an introduction to analytic epidemiology, which covered how studies are designed and the data is collected and measured, association versus causation, and ethics in public health; and the magnitude and points of intersection in regards to disease and additional factors, in particular the impact of September 11, 2001 and COVID-19 on the field of public health.

“I could not have been more grateful for the opportunity to share a piece of my background and ongoing passion with a wonderful cross-section of the Canterbury family,” Rachel averred. “The seminars also served as an important reminder to me that when we face our greatest challenges and uncertainties, drawing from not only our experiences but the steady ground below us—in my case, the infrastructure of public health, data, and research— can provide perspective and reassurance to help us move forward.”

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

Andrew Flood ’82, Ph.D. is currently the Director of Data Science in Human Capital Talent Analytics at UnitedHealth Group, has been a Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Minnesota, and has co-authored over 50 articles on the subject. Andrew attended the Epidemiology seminars led by Rachel Stone and imparted his expertise in the field. He shared, “Rachel Stone’s epidemiology course was terrific. She gave her students an excellent introduction to the basic principles of the discipline—populations, frequencies, rates, study designs, etc. At a time like this, when we are struggling with a global pandemic that is disrupting all our lives profoundly, when our responsibilities as citizens require us to think clearly about the epidemiologic data, offering this course was a great service to the Canterbury community.”

After graduating from Canterbury, Andrew attended Princeton University, NJ, where he ran on the track team and majored in biology.

He then obtained his Ph.D. in the Division of Nutritional Sciences at Cornell University, NY. Following graduate school, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics at the National Cancer Institute, where he studied the nutritional epidemiology of cancer. After his postdoc, Andrew was a professor in the Division of Epidemiology at the University of Minnesota, MN, where he continued his research with a primary focus on insulin resistance and related exposures as risk factors for colorectal cancer.

At the University of Minnesota, Andrew taught the Epidemiology Methods course for graduate students in the School of Public Health. His authored works have appeared in medical journals including the American Journal of Epidemiology, Gastroenterology, the Lancet, and the New England Journal of Medicine.

After leaving academia (because he was “tired of writing grants”), Andrew went on to lead a team of data scientists doing talent analytics for UnitedHealth Group.

Art Awards Presented for Fall and Winter Works Art Awards were presented virtually to students on April 30, 2020, in recognition of outstanding achievements in their respective fields of study during the fall and winter semesters. Visual and Performing Arts Department Chair Kim Tester noted: “These students have worked consistently this year to demonstrate excellence in the study of their particular areas. They each showed a willingness to expand their creativity and technical skills. We are so proud of their accomplishments.”

Twelve Halo Award Nominations and Two Big Wins Earned for Fall Production of Clue

T

he Canterbury Theater production of Clue in November was inarguably a hit.

Based on the cult classic film and the popular board game and its iconic ensemble

known as Scarlett, Plum, White, Green, Peacock, and Mustard, Clue kept the audience in laughter and suspense throughout both performances. This spring, Clue’s cast and crew were nominated for several awards for their performances.

The Halo Awards, sponsored by the Seven Angels Theatre in Waterbury, CT, honor high school students’ achievements in all aspects of theater. Over 60 high schools from across the State of Connecticut participate annually in the Award Ceremony, held each year since 2003. On learning of the award nominations, Clue’s co-director Sarah

Armstrong shared, “The cast and crew were so excited to have their hard work pay off with this incredible recognition of their fall production.”

Awards were announced during a virtual ceremony on June 25 and Canterbury had two major wins, including one for Chiara Vaccaro ’20 for Best Female Standout Performance in an Ensemble Production for her performance as Mrs. White, and one for the entire cast and crew for Best Contemporary Play.

Excitingly, in the 15 categories in which Canterbury was eligible, the School earned 12 total nominations this year: Sebastian Voskericyan ’22 as Professor Plum was nominated for Best Comic Male Performance in a Production; Abigail Omaña ’20 as Mrs. Peacock for Best Comic Female Performance in a Production; Erin Sudbey ’20 and Erik Stedman ’20 for Best Costume Design/Execution; Erin Sudbey ’20 and MaryBridget Horvath ’20 for Best Hair and/or Makeup Design/Execution; Jiwon Lee ’20 for Best Sound Design and/or Execution; Gabriella Cafiero ’22, Rylee Miles ’21, Lexah Caraluzzi ’21, and Nikolai Azan ’22 for Best Scenic Design and/or Execution; Celine Yoo ’21 and Angela Danso-Adjei ’23 for Best Props Design and/or Management; Daniella Suarez ’21, Alana Arnaeva ’22, and

For the study of Intro to Art, the Award of Excellence was presented to Eleni Soupios ’23, and Xinyi Weng ’23 received Honorable Mention.

In the study of Ceramics, the Award of Excellence was presented to Michael Iuzzolino ’20. Cecilia Poli ’20 and Isabella Cotier ’20 received Honorable Mention.

For the study of Painting, the Award of Excellence was presented to Ashley Regina ’22, and Honorable Mention was given to Sean Desantis ’20 and Jade Brinker ’21.

In the study of Drawing, the Award of Excellence was presented to Jiayi Wu ’20. Liza Duffy ’20 and Emma Gambardella ’20 received Honorable Mention.

For the study of Architecture, the Award of Excellence was presented to Reilly Mahan ’20, with an Honorable Mention for Sam Alexanian ’21.

In the study of Sculpture, the Award of Excellence was presented to Victoria Gioiele ’22. Honorable Mention was given to Kiernan Freeman ’20 and Pepper deTuro ’22.

For the study of Printmaking, the Award of Excellence was presented to Justin Schneider ’20, and Isabella Pizzo ’20 received Honorable Mention.

For her works in the Advanced Art Portfolio class, the Award of Excellence was presented to Elizabeth Ondrey ’21. Can Cui ’22 received Honorable Mention.

Congratulations to the award winners and to all our artists for their hard work and inspiring creations from this year!

David Salazar ’22 for Best Running Crew ; Stage Manager Jillian Carleton ’20, and Assistant Stage Managers Giselle Bradshaw ’21 and Kennison Harmon ’21 for Best Stage Management; and, finally, the entire Clue cast for Best Performance by a Cast in an Ensemble Production.

Michael Iuzzilino ’20

Bravo to the entire cast and crew!

PAGE 11.

ACADEMIC SPOTLIGHT

THE STEERS CENTER: ACADEMIC PROGRAMMING

A

s we begin the 2020-21 academic year, the excitement for the opening of the Steers Center is difficult to harness. Classrooms that are structured

and scheduled to allow for interdisciplinary access will become the long-awaited reality along with spaces for unstructured learning opportunities and the crosspollination of academic disciplines. Included here are the courses that will be scheduled into the Innovation and Design Lab, Digital Media Lab, and the D’Amour Center for Faith, Service & Justice. In addition to scheduled courses, these spaces will provide a vital and unique hub for Canterbury students and faculty to inspire learning, weaving elements of design thinking and fabrication/ ideation processes into subject areas spanning the humanities, arts, and science.

PAGE 12

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

INNOVATION & DESIGN LAB COURSES:

NE W !

Design Thinking

This course will provide a student-led, problem-based approach to learning.

Students will navigate the design process— identifying problems, developing prototypes, and evaluate success in order to develop solutions to real-world issues. Students will work throughout the semester to create an innovative solution to enhance the Canterbury community.

NE W !

Entrepreneurship and Emerging Enterprises

This course provides students a solid understanding of the vital role played by entrepreneurs in the 21st century global economy. During this course, students will assess, explore, critique, and celebrate entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneurship is approached as a way of thinking and acting, as well as an attitude and a behavior. The course emphasizes entrepreneurship as a manageable process that can be applied in virtually any organizational setting and its sustainability over the life cycle of a person’s entire career.

Robotics

Our Competitive Robotics Travel Team designs, constructs, and battles their robot against those of peer institutions.

Innovation Lab

This course is a hands-on, experiential class where students will have the opportunity to get their hands “dirty” by deconstructing, constructing, and repurposing materials in the pursuit of developing problem solving skills in an engaging, non-traditional format.

DIGITAL MEDIA LAB COURSES: Syracuse University Project Advance: Introduction to Information Security See the Syracuse University Project Advance section for more information on this course.

Introduction to Computer Programming

In this course, students will learn basic programming skills and concepts using Python.

The course is designed for students with little or no programming skills. Completion of one year of Algebra is required.

Introduction to Digital Media

This course will give students the opportunity to better understand the social media landscape as an avenue toward connecting with an audience, creating engaging content, and utilizing digital analytics in order to make informed and strategic decisions. Students will explore various social media platforms, research business profiles, and analyze case studies. This course will include web conferences with industry experts and off-campus site visits.

D’AMOUR CENTER FOR FAITH, SERVICE & JUSTICE COURSES: Service Learning: Social Justice

Students in this course will explore social justice issues, the foundational principles of Catholic social teaching, and apply their knowledge and faith to their experiential service work by engaging in an ongoing community service project. This course requires students to engage in learning about the organizations and communities they serve, the challenges they face, and issues of social justice on a local, national, and global level. While students engage in their service projects independently, they meet as a group to examine the theological foundations of social justice, discuss readings, current events, and to share reflections on their experiences. The coursework includes assigned readings, a reflection journal, and culminates with a final project presentation or research project.

NE W !

Spiritual Journey

Readings from scripture, literature, modern theologians, and spiritual heroes will be our guides through an exploration of the theme of life as a journey toward reality, universal truth, and ultimately God and spirituality. Students will also specifically explore the concept of pilgrimage. This course will cover topics such as mindfulness, spiritual renewal, intentional travel, and the sacred journey. Inspired by formulating more questions than answers, the value of searching for those answers, and the process of discernment, students will challenge themselves to consider how responses to experiences allow opportunity to draw into deeper understanding and connection with God, self, and others.

PAGE 13.

ACADEMIC SPOTLIGHT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY PROJECT ADVANCE (SUPA)

D

id you know that in addition to our over 50 Advanced Placement (AP) and

Honors classes, we also offer four different Syracuse University Project Advance courses (with more to come in the future)? The SUPA program was launched in 2019 and gives our students the opportunity to earn college-level credits while at Canterbury. Students may opt to take the course for Canterbury credit only

“The opportunity to take a college-level course in high school is terrific … I was extremely impressed … the final projects (both the paper and presentations) represented a high level of academic work!”

or receive Syracuse University credit as well.

Dr. Gina Pauline, Associate Professor and Undergraduate Program Director, Syracuse University

They can then graduate with their Canterbury transcript and an SU transcript! Saints can take SUPA Principals and Contemporary Issues in Sport Management (we’re currently the only school in Connecticut that offers this), SUPA Introduction to Information Security, SUPA Gender and Literary Texts, and SUPA Economics of Personal Finance.

Director of Curriculum Kelli Darrin spoke about the success of the program and the plans to expand it in the future: “We piloted the SUPA program last year running an Informational Security class and a Sport Management class. Based on the success of those two courses, we decided to offer a more robust SUPA load this year. We had plans to add an additional 6-7 SUPA courses, but due to COVID and the shift to online learning for Syracuse University’s Summer Institute (the week-long intensive training to qualify teachers as adjunct professors), we were only able to add two more courses this year. We intend to add the other courses, and more, for the 2021-22 school year.”

The SUPA program gives faculty the opportunity to design curricula that mirror what is happening on the Syracuse University campus and lets Fifth and Sixth Form students take actual college courses without having to leave Canterbury. Canterbury’s site coordinator at Syracuse University, Associate Professor and Undergraduate Program Director Dr. Gina Pauline, shared her positivity and appreciation for our program,

PAGE 14.

saying, “The opportunity to take a collegelevel course in high school is terrific, and the program at Canterbury did an incredible job in its first year. I was extremely impressed by the level of dedication of the students and instructors for the courses. Their final projects (both the paper and presentations) represented a high level of academic work! I am excited

the ways in which literature participates in the social reproduction of gender, as well as the difference that gender makes in the production and reception of literary texts, students will practice extensive close reading, evidencebased analysis and argumentation, and independentinquiry. Raising awareness of how meanings are created through acts of critical reading, students will thus learn to analyze the ways texts construct categories of difference, including differences in gender, race, and social class.

to continue to partner with Canterbury in the

HISTORY AND SOCIAL SCIENCE

future.”

Syracuse University Project Advance: Economics of Personal Finance

Course descriptions for each of the SUPA classes offered at Canterbury are as follows:

DIGITAL COMMUNICATION, DESIGN AND INNOVATION Syracuse University Project Advance: Introduction to Information Security

Students will be introduced to fundamental elements in information security and key areas of security challenges, countermeasures, and real-life examples. Topics include security properties, vulnerabilities, cryptography, security policies, access control, authentication, firewalls, wireless security, Internet security protocols, security management, security evaluation, and case studies. Students will also have hands-on experiences in information security through customized online labs.

ENGLISH Syracuse University Project Advance: Gender and Literary Texts This course will examine various literary texts through the premise that gender is a social construct, rather than a natural “essence” that expresses our true selves. To examine

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

This introduction to personal finance focuses on the foundations of financial planning—such as setting shortterm and long-term financial goals—and then tackles essential aspects of consumer personal finance, including record keeping, budgeting, banking, saving, borrowing, investing, insurance, taxes, and retirement planning.

Syracuse University Project Advance: Principals & Contemporary Issues In Sport Management

Offered through the Syracuse University David Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics, this course introduces the student to sport management concepts and sectors through an examination of problems and issues faced by contemporary sport management. The unique characteristics of sport and resulting social and ethical responsibilities of sport managers will be discussed. In addition to the use of traditional pedagogical teaching methods to deliver basic sport management concepts, students are required to complete a comprehensive, hands-on project that demonstrates their comprehension of the different sectors of the industry covered throughout the semester.

NE W

COUR2S0E-2S1 F OR 20

In addition to the SUPA classes offered and the new courses that will take place in the Steers Center, Canterbury is introducing the following new classes, spanning several departments, for the 2020-21 school year:

ENGLISH Honors Nature In Literature

The relationship between humans and nature has always been complicated. This course will explore this complex relationship through the reading of poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction. In the course, we will examine how writers have attempted to understand the natural world around them, and we will consider how this literature, and many other factors, have affected our feelings towards and our understanding of the more than human world.

Honors Post-Colonial Literature

“The Empire Writes Back”: It is often said that history is written by the victors; however, literature is written by everyone.

The texts of the course are written by authors from former colonies. The course will explore and discuss the challenges and conflicts faced by people who were colonized and how, even though the authors are from a variety of geographical regions, the concerns of these authors share commonalities (identity, history, cultural heritage, nationhood, freedom, etc.).

VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS The Actor’s Approach To Public Speaking

Theater training develops the imagination, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are needed for everyday life. This course uses theater techniques to help students enhance their public speaking in both formal and informal environments. Using the storytelling and character-development techniques of theatrical improvisation, participants will acquire and practice voice and speech techniques to build oral communication skills, confidence, and enjoyment in public speaking, presentation, or performance.

HISTORY AND SOCIAL SCIENCE Honors History of Latin America

The 600-year period from Pre-Columbian Americas to the present day will be analyzed through economic, social, political, philosophical, and cultural lenses to provide a clearer understanding of how historians study history and Latin America in particular. Understanding why Latin America is so connected to the United States while having its own rich and exciting history will be essential themes of this course.

All of this will be done by analysis of primary sources like books, paintings, songs, journals, and cultural items. Excerpts of secondary sources will also be looked at to understand the differing conclusions historians draw from the same information.

Honors Global Capitalism: From the Model T to the iPhone X

Global capitalism aims to introduce students to the real-world workings of global capitalism. This project-based course will introduce students to global markets, strategies, and labor outsourcing of multinational corporations as well as the complex global supply chains employed by such corporations. Students will also examine the relentless pace of innovation and how companies develop better products and production methods to increase profit margins, expand market share, and thrive financially. Readings will come from actual business school case studies and students will be responsible for assessing and analyzing multinational companies such as Disney, Starbucks, Alibaba and Nike as well as the legendary entrepreneurs who founded these companies. Students will follow global markets on a daily basis, read regularly from the Wall Street Journal and Financial Times, and will complete independent projects that will require them to choose topics of interest that they will explore in depth.

Honors Corporate Colonialism

Students will learn about the rise of Multinational Corporations (MNC) and their role in imperialism between the 17th and 20th centuries as well as determining if it is still going on to this day. Three questions will frame this class throughout the semester: How did companies colonize for European empires? If it did, how did imperialism and MNC change by the 19th/20th centuries? Globalism or Imperialism? Students will look at companies as case studies throughout the centuries in question, such as the British East India Company, Belgian Free State, United Fruit Company, and Firestone. At the end of the course, students will research an aspect of MNC or Imperialism (social aspects, economic impacts, or political implications) and delve deeply into the subject to understand the nuances and impact of said aspect.

Honors Global Economy: History and Practice of Investment Management

Topics covered in this course include diversification, asset allocation, portfolio optimization, factor models, the relation between risk and return, active and passive investing, simulation. The course includes case studies of legendary investors such as Peter Lynch, Jack Bogle, and Warren Buffett.

Students will be required to construct and manage their own investment portfolios.

Advanced Placement Government and Politics Students cultivate their understanding of U.S. government and politics through analysis of data and text-based sources as they explore topics like constitutionalism, liberty, and order; civic participation in a representative democracy; competing policy-making interests; and methods of political analysis.

Current Political Issues

This course will serve as an introduction to current debates and issues related to civil and political violence and is divided into three parts: 1) creating an understanding of how conflicts and violence are conceptualized, measured, and the causes and triggers of conflict, 2) the consequence of conflict on people’s lives: focusing on education, health, and labor outcomes, economy, social capital, and political participation, and offer proposed forms of conflict management and 3) student-led presentations based on research conducted in the field as it relates to current events.

US Foreign Policy: Traditions, Theory and Today

Students will examine prominent theories in international relations while taking part in a series of case studies and simulations. Students will then apply their knowledge of diplomatic history and International Relations theory from the course to discuss and debate the factors that contributed to events including the annexation of the Philippines, the Marshall Plan, the 1953 coup in Iran, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the Iraq War.

SCIENCE Science of Conservation

Students will learn about wildlife conservation as a social process encompassing both lay and professional activities that define and seek to attain wise use of wildlife resources including their habitats. In addition to introducing students to the science of wildlife conservation, this course will also identify and discuss the role of government wildlife agencies and private wildlife organizations.

Nutritional Science

Students will explore the role that nutrition, exercise, sleep, and other health behaviors have on human function and performance. Through investigations of scientific literature, students will be able to understand the role that social, psychological, ecological, and political factors have on nutrition in society and our community.

PAGE 15.

LETTER FROM AMANDA MCGREW P ’20 TO THE COMMUNITY Amanda’s son, Zach, graduated with the Class of 2020; she shared her appreciation for the Canterbury experience and the School’s response to COVID-19 during her son’s Sixth Form spring.

Dear Canterbury family, Zach received his graduation box this weekend, filled with bouncy blue paper shreds, a dashing Canterbury tie, a 2020 tee-shirt, and a collection of meaningful remembrances. Ah! Graduation! Celebration! And despite all that we are doing to complete the school year, whether it is kindergarten or the senior stretch of high school, it seems as if we will carry a bit of this COVID life along with us for a while, as a sort of pocket of unfinished business. Perhaps this letter will make it so there is one less unfinished thought in that pocket.

First things first: Jason and I cannot thank all of you enough for the great years Zach has had at Canterbury. I think back to that first June evening of Canterbury 101 when Zach was a freshly minted Rumsey Hall grad, a bit apprehensive about the next step. Now he is a taller, more thoughtful and mature version of that same self; thank goodness. I am filled with gratitude for the person he has become and for the qualities in him that have grown under the very specific watch of the Canterbury community. We are so grateful for the perspective on the world that he has taken on in his years with all of you. Zach will take much from this experience, and I thought I would thank you in writing since we are graduating without our personal connections and closure.

I find myself reflecting on this a lot these last weeks: what is it that Zach will take with him as he leaves the Canterbury embrace? I am sure some of you can relate to the way in which we sometimes spend time as a parent trying to figure out what is going on in our kids’ heads. At Rumsey, as I was teaching there, it was easy to keep tabs on him. I could keep track of who he was becoming, partly due to my presence there, my familial rapport with many of his teachers, and also because of the full immersion parents can have with younger kids—homework connections, car conversations, sporting events, etc. Yes, lots of opportunities to sort through who he was and who he was becoming. As mothers, we do that. We sneak into the metaphorical rooms of our children at night and sort, tidy, shake things out a bit, and do some sweeping up. We listen closely, we peer around corners for clues to the next triumph...or the next disaster, trying to keep in perspective the meaning of both kinds of moments.

But once Zach moved on to Canterbury, I knew that it was time to relinquish some of that. Oh, there was still time for digging around in his mind now and then, but for the most part, this was how it would be for Zach to become himself. So I loosened the grip. I did not ask a million questions when I wanted to. I did not insist on going to every game. I did my best to leave it to all of you, and I have to say, you have done a wonderful job! The thing is, I cannot say a specific thank you because I am sure there are countless moments and people who have contributed to who Zach has become that I have no idea about. Because I did leave him to you. So thank you, all of you, for being there in this pivotal time of high school, when things can and do change in an instant—this is what keeps us all awake at night. I know you understand!

You have a campus full of teenagers!

So here, I share my thoughts for all of you: It is you who have been tending that metaphorical room these past few years, whether you knew it or not. Through the challenging assignments and the ones that came with ease, Zach has learned how to lean in and push himself a little more. He understands better his strengths and his weaknesses. He has been able to figure out what it looks like for him to be organized, to stay happy, to work hard, to feel balanced. He knows how much can be accomplished by taking the time to touch base with a teacher. I cannot even begin to capture the breadth of the experiences: time on the fields, courts, diamond, links; the doozy of a paper for Mr. Johnson for which I am eternally grateful; the activation of the pencil to the page for drawing and architecture; the artfully-curated quest for the meaning of life in theology this year; the well-lit path through the college admissions process; and the COUNTLESS moments he has had with all of you as teachers, coaches, leaders, and role models—humans who happened to be walking the path of life alongside Zach in whatever moments as they arose.

I do not think I could put a value on who you are as a collective. You have created a very thoughtfully supportive environment at Canterbury with the right amounts of structure and warmth, where these kids are able to kick things around a bit and figure themselves out. Zach has grown to be more comfortable in his skin and has formed some very clear ideas of what kind of person and friend he is choosing to be, and I like who that is. Thank you. You probably know as well as I do that he has some fantastic friends—what a cast of characters he has met at Canterbury! I hope that in spite of the distance, you are able to celebrate who these kids have become on your watch.

Please know that although we cannot really sum it up together, many of us are still adding it all up. I know I am. I find myself incredibly grateful for who all of you are and for what you have done for Zach.

So yes—“Our future is bright, but our vision is 2020”—with thanks to Canterbury.

With gratitude,

Amanda McGrew

PAGE 16.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

CELEBRATING THE GREAT CLASS OF 2020

LEAVING THEIR MARK Painting their initials on the rock beside the turf field has become an annual tradition for Sixth Formers. It is an opportunity for the graduating class to leave their literal mark on the School that nurtured them throughout their high school years. Though the rock is repainted to a blank, white canvas at the end of every school year in anticipation of the graduating class, the initials of students from years prior still exist underneath all the layers. Each May, the rock grows a little with its new coats of paint and with the spirit of the names it bears proudly all year.

This spring, our students could not be on campus physically to add their names, so our faculty had the honor of doing it for them. Students elected teachers, coaches, dorm parents, and advisors to paint the rock and help them leave their mark—and each faculty member did so with love, care, and enthusiasm.

The painting was livestreamed for the Class of 2020 so they could experience the event in real-time.

With all of the uncertainty that this spring brought to our hilltop and the world, we do know one thing to be undoubtedly true: the bonds and partnerships that exist between our teachers and students only grew while they were apart. We look forward to having the Class of 2020 back on campus soon and we remind them that they will always be part of this school—and the rock will always be theirs.

PAGE 17.

EN D O F Y EAR ACT IV IT IES

Sixth Form Awards Assembly HONORS GRADUATING CLASS IN THEIR FINAL WEEK AS CANTERBURY STUDENTS

M

embers of the Class of 2020 were honored and

Preceding the first awards, Assistant Head of School

serving as captains on the league champion Girls’ Varsity

presented with awards during a virtual assembly

for Student Life Peter LaVigne recognized all members

Soccer and Boys’ Varsity Basketball teams, respectively.

on the evening of May 19, 2020. As with the Underform

of the class who had held leadership positions over the

Victoria Congdon, Megan LeBlanc, and Jack

Awards Assembly earlier in the week, the ceremony was

course of their final year, including Sacristans, Sixth

McCluskey were presented with the Best All-Around

livestreamed for faculty, family members, and friends,

Form Council members, and proctors. Class of 2020

Athlete Awards for their skills and dedication to multiple

while Sixth Formers were present via Zoom to accept

members of the Canterbury Honor Society—Sabrina

varsity-level sports.

their awards.

Capodicci, Jillian Carleton, Brigida Caruso,

The assembly opened with a prayer from Tracy GarciaLaVigne, Director of the Center for Spirituality, Service & Justice and Theology Teacher, followed by opening remarks from Head of School Rachel Stone. Rachel noted: “Collectively, you have embraced your experiences here and developed self-awareness, discipline, and confidence along the way. That learning curve never ends; you will face it again next fall as a new round of challenges arrives. But you are ready. You know

Isabella Cotier, Gabriel Diamond, Alexa Esposito, Xing Gao, Ryan Greguski, Katherine Grissmer, Yongkyung Jo, Grace LaVigne, Abigail Omaña, Cecilia Poli, Erik Stedman, Yitian Sun, Cadence Trach, Yiqi Wang, Jiayi Wu, Diqing Xu, and Wensi Yang—were also recognized individually for their hard work and academic accomplishments, and were addressed by 2019 J.P. Mandler Teaching Award recipient Cammy Roffe.

Dean of Faculty Wright Danenbarger then presented the Edward F. Mack Awards to members of the class for their contributions to particular areas of school life. For Outstanding Contributions to The Tabard, Nicholas Vial received the award; for Outstanding Contributions to Community Service, Erin Sudbey; for Outstanding Contributions to the Cantuarian, Jillian Lanese; for Outstanding Contributions to the Women of Canterbury, MaryBridget Horvath; for Outstanding Contributions to the Sustainability Club,

yourselves as students; you know that persistence counts

Director of Athletics Jim Stone began the award

Maeve O’Donnell; for Outstanding Contributions

just as much as intelligence—if not more—and you

presentation with athletic awards in several categories.

to Theatre for Performance in a Female Role, Abigail

know that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. The

Emma Gambardella, Grace LaVigne, Gabriel

Omaña and Chiara Vaccaro; for Outstanding

faculty and I thank and congratulate you for your good

Diamond, and Justin Schneider received the Most

Contributions to Theatre for Performance in a Male

work and the impact you have made—and will leave—on

Improved Athlete Awards. Cecilia Poli and Trayvon

Role, Ryan Greguski and Nicholas Vial; for

our community.”

Alexander received the Best Leadership Awards for

Outstanding Contributions to Theatre for Technical

PAGE 18.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

Theatre, Jillian Carleton, MaryBridget Horvath, and Erik Stedman; for Outstanding Service as a Proctor, MaryBridget Horvath, Cecilia Poli, Justin Schneider, Yitian Sun, and Jiayi Wu; for Outstanding Service as an Admission Ambassador, Grace LaVigne and Andrew Mancini; for Outstanding Contributions as a Sacristan, Abigail Omaña; and for Outstanding Contributions in Student Government, the members of the Sixth Form Council: Sabrina Capodicci, Brigida Caruso, Griffin Duffy, Griffin Fillios, Jack McCluskey, Venessa Okoroanyanwu, Abigail Omaña, and Jackson Zavatsky.

The award presentations continued with academic honors given to Sixth Formers for specific areas of study.

The Edward J. Duffy Family Award for excellence in the study of Studio Art, given in memory of Mr. Duffy by his children, was presented to Shannon Gao. The Francis T. Carmody ’25 Award for creative talent in art, given in memory of Trustee Francis Carmody, son of founding Trustee Terence Carmody, was presented to Alexa Esposito and Diqing Xu. The Stephen N. ’43 And Lacey Hume Award, given in memory of Trustee Emeritus and son of the founding Headmaster, Stephen N. ’43 and his wife, Lacey, was presented to Chiara Vaccaro for excellence in the study of vocal performance and to Qiyuan Wang for excellence in the study of contemporary music.

The Frederick L. Gilson ’50 Award for excellence in classical music performance was presented to Katherine Grissmer.

The John Thomas Smith Award for excellence in the study of English, given in memory of John Thomas Smith, benefactor of the School and parent, was presented to Abigail Omaña.

The English Essay Award, presented to the author of the best critical essay written for the annual Sixth Form English essay assignment, was given to Gabriel Diamond and Xing Gao. The Francis T. Carmody ’25 Prize Awards were presented to William McMullan for creative talent in prose and to Charles Dyer and Xing Gao for creative talent in poetry.

The Allan A. Ryan Award for excellence in the study

The Captain Thomas J. Sartor Award for excellence in

of history, given in memory of Mr. Ryan, a founding

the study of science, given in memory of Captain Sartor

Trustee and parent, was presented to Sabrina

from the Class of 1919, benefactor of the School and

Capodicci and Jiayi Wu.

parent, was presented to Erik Stedman.

The Weldon R. Knox Award, established by the

The final honor, the Roderick Clarke ’46 Distinguished

Class of 1971 in memory of Mr. Knox, who taught

Academic Achievement Award, given by the Class of

math from 1960 to 1975, was presented to Kasey

1956 in memory of Mr. Clarke, who served Canterbury

Sarmiento. The award is given to that student who has

from 1954 to 1990 as history teacher, Director of Studies,

demonstrated the greatest improvement in the study of

College Counselor, and as Canterbury’s Headmaster for

mathematics while at Canterbury.

his last twelve years, was awarded to the student with

The James A. Farrell Award for excellence in the study of mathematics, given in memory of Mr. Farrell, a founding Trustee and benefactor of the School, was presented to Jiayi Wu. The Hubert McDonnell Award for excellence in the study of theology, given in memory of Mr. McDonnell, a Trustee from 1938-1950 and parent, was presented to Sabrina Capodicci and Erin Sudbey.

the highest GPA. Rachel Stone presented the award to this year’s recipient and Class of 2020 Valedictorian, Sabrina Capodicci.

Sixth Form Council member Jackson Zavatsky then addressed his classmates via video (read his full remarks on the next page), and Rachel Stone closed the assembly by thanking the Sixth Form Council for their extraordinary leadership throughout the year: “In four quick days, we will celebrate the class of 2020—our 103rd graduating

The Canterbury Art Legacy Award, to recognize

class—and all that you have done to earn a Canterbury

the accomplishments of advanced art students by

diploma. Don’t forget to make time this week to laugh with

including their work into the permanent art collection at

your friends, to thank those who have made this journey

Canterbury, was presented to Alexa Esposito.

both possible and successful, to soak in the breadth and

The Terence F. Carmody Award, given in memory of founding Trustee Terence F. Carmody, was presented to

depth of your accomplishments, and to think back to your first days and weeks on our hilltop.”

Erin Sudbey for excellence in the study of Spanish and

The assembly concluded with a performance of

to Alexa Esposito and Abigail Omaña for excellence

“Stand By Me” by the Contemporary Music Band and

in the study of French.

performances of “You Will Be Found” and the School song “Cantuaria Floreat” by Varsity Voices.

PAGE 19.

EN D O F Y EAR ACT IV IT IES

CLASS ORATOR JACKSON ZAVATSKY’S REMARKS An excerpt from Jackson Zavatsky, who was selected by his fellow Sixth Form Council members to address the class. In addition to being on the Sixth Form Council, Jackson was this year’s recipient of the esteemed Class of 1987 Citizenship Award, given to a student who, in the judgment of classmates, has best fulfilled obligations to school, to fellow students, and to self. Jackson is currently enrolled at Fairfield University, CT.

I

am sure you all recall the feelings of anger and sadness

and the culture we appropriated for Canterbury’s future is

we felt when we found out we could not return this

evident in the people that are in front of me today. We are

spring. Throughout the past few weeks, I have realized that

appreciative, generous, kind, and supportive. We are who we

my own disappointment is a demonstration of one thing

are. That is stronger than anything or anybody that tries to

and one thing only: the bonds we have created with each other are unmatched. The friendships that

define us differently.

…we are not victims of these

were formed here are invaluable

unfortunate circumstances.

and will last a lifetime. The love

We are fighters and survivors.

that radiates on this campus in large part comes from this class. It

We have learned resilience in

Each of you should be proud of yourself for the feats you have accomplished, and the journey that life will soon take you on.

comes from this vibrant group of

the face of defeat, heartache,

There were certain moments

seniors, of which I am so lucky to

and pain. This is the

during my time at Canterbury

be a part.

Canterbury Saint way.

Yes, the situation may have robbed

when I had to pinch myself. A lot, in fact, for one reason or another…

But do you ever get the feeling

us of a ceremony, but know that it was not in vain: we will

when you know you are in the right place, at the right time,

be a part of history. We will help change the course of

for the right reason? That happened a lot up there [on

education, technology, and traditions. Not too many others

campus]. A large part of it was because of you.

can say that. We will know how to stand tall, even when life tries to push us down. And we will continue to extend love

Saints, seniors, friends, it has been a blessing to have been

for one another.

able to share in your laughs, your memories, and warmth this year. Your Canterbury family will forever be your family.

Make no mistake, we are not victims of these unfortunate

This remains true for every single one of you.

circumstances. We are fighters and survivors. We have learned resilience in the face of defeat, heartache, and pain.

In my eyes, the Class of 2020 shall forever be immortal.

This is the Canterbury Saint way. This is what our class, the

Now let’s make some memories.

Class of 2020, is all about. Our class is special; I have heard this once or twice before. The environment we established PAGE 20.

Thank you and God bless.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

Alumni-led Senior Seminars Help Prepare the Sixth Form for Their Next Chapter

A

s part of their “Senior Week,” the Sixth Form was able to connect with recent alumni during “Skills4Life” and “College 101” seminars organized

by English Department Chair Lindsay Mulhern. Twenty-three alumni led conversations and fielded questions for the graduating class to help prepare them both mentally and logistically for their first year of college.

Senior Chapel Service

entitled “The Transition from Canterbury to College: What Do I Need to

T

Know?” Alumni Nick Toth ’18 (Rochester Institute of Technology, NY), Sherley

opportunity to set goals and intentions for their final

The seminars covered a range of topics, and began with a morning session

o start off the school year, the Sixth Form concludes their Leadership Weekend with

a chapel service that offers class members the

Arias-Pimental ’19 (University of Richmond, VA), Coco Booth ’19 (Fairfield

year. The chance to look back on those objectives

University, CT), Stone Huang ’18 (Villanova University, PA), Raif Harris ’19

is presented on the eve before Commencement,

(University of Connecticut, CT), Maddie Milazzo ’19 (St. Lawrence University,

bringing the whole class together one last time to

NY), and Steven Sigillito ’18 (University of Colorado at Boulder, CO) all spoke

reflect on their time at Canterbury before they

about their experiences in their first year(s) of college and how they felt prepared

graduate.

to be able to make the adjustment.

Initiated three years ago, the chapel service is

An afternoon session titled “Outside of Classes, Oh My… What Do I Do with

designed as an open forum that allows students to

All of My Time?” was broken down into several seminars that covered a variety of extra curricular opportunities. Lillian Delehanty ’17 (Duke University, NC), Sherley Arias-Pimental ’19, JP Loughran ’16 (Georgetown University, DC), Eli Taylor ’19 (Fordham University, NY), and Nick Toth ’18 all discussed ways for incoming college students to get involved on campus.

address their class. Many students share what their time at Canterbury has meant to them and what has motivated them to reach the goals they set for themselves. Brigida Caruso ’20 (New York University ’24), a Sacristan, Sixth Form Council member, and Day Student Proctor shared her experience at

Ellen Fritz ’18 (Franklin and Marshall College, PA), Mary Grace Cordtz ’17

the service: “It was touching to hear all the ways

(University of Virginia, VA), Brendan Desmarais ’18 (Quinnipiac University,

Canterbury has impacted the lives of my peers, each

CT), and Tommy Mason ’17 (University of Delaware, DE) talked about their experiences with social and student life at their schools.

“Interscholastic College Athletics: What Does it Mean to be a College Athlete?” was led by Gabby Vitelli ’18 (Quinnipiac University, CT, DI Women’s Ice Hockey), Bryan Powell ’19 (Pace University, NY, DII Men’s Basketball), Jericho Petkovich ’18 (Trinity College, CT, DIII Men’s Ice Hockey), Katherine Hesslink ’19 (Bentley University, MA, DII Women’s Lacrosse), Korbin Pecora ’19 (Yale University, CT, DI Men’s Lacrosse), and Emily Martino ’17 (Hobart and William

unique to the person. There was a common sense of community and gratitude for the experiences shared.

It also made me realize what wonderful and caring people occupy the hilltop and make it so special.”

Though the service couldn’t be held in person, Brigida ’20 noted that the service still felt personal and important as class members opened up about the positive impact of their time at the School: “The time in the chapel was meaningful to me because,

Smith Colleges, NY, DIII Women’s Ice Hockey).

although virtual, it would be one of the last times

Several young alumni recently participated in study abroad programs and shared

together as a class. I was able to hear from many

their application processes and overall experiences with the group; Jed Dowler ’17 (Villanova University, PA) studied in Milan, Italy, Sarah Buckingham ’17 (Franklin and Marshall College, PA) studied in Madrid, Spain, and Connor Dow ’17 (Providence College, RI), studied in Rome, Italy.

The seminars not only offered firsthand, applicable advice to the Class of 2020, they also created—or strengthened—connections to the Canterbury alumni network. The Sixth Form was able to meet (or catch up with) their alumni friends,

different classmates, some of whom I did not expect, which made the event even more special. Despite all our differences, we are connected through our time at Canterbury, and seeing everyone come together and reflect only confirmed this.”

The following morning, before the start of Commencement, about 20 members of the graduating class tuned in virtually for Senior

and some will be able to continue that relationship as they reunite at the same

Sunrise. They watched one last sunrise over Sheehy

college this fall.

Family Field and many of them shared the view of the sunrise wherever they happened to be at that moment.

PAGE 21.

103 rd

COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES

C

anterbury’s 103rd—and first virtual— Commencement Exercises were celebrated on Saturday, May 23, to honor the Class of 2020. The week leading up to Commencement was full of activities and opportunities for the graduating class to be together, albeit virtually: Sixth Formers were presented awards for their contributions in academics, athletics, and service; attended seminars with Canterbury alumni to help prepare them for college and life beyond the hilltop; displayed their collegiate destinations on College T-shirt Day; presented their Sixth Form projects; and held a virtual Sixth Form Retreat to reflect on their time at Canterbury and the goals they’ve achieved while here. The

PAGE 22.

annual Baccalaureate Mass, celebrated by Fr. Mark Connell, occurred in the Chapel of Our Lady the evening prior, and was livestreamed for the class and their family members.

The Commencement Exercises were livestreamed from Maguire Auditorium with the graduating class participating via Zoom to receive their awards and diplomas. The ceremony began with a light-hearted video of faculty getting ready for the big day before Head of School Rachel Stone addressed the graduating class, noting that she had started her Canterbury journey with several of the class members four years ago (read her full remarks on the next page). Following Rachel’s THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

address, a photo slideshow of the class was presented, highlighting special moments from this past year and, for some students, as far back as their Third Form year.

Key speakers at the ceremony included Michele D’Amour P ’93, ’98, GP ’20, ’22, ’23 and the Class of 2020 Valedictorian Sabrina Capodicci, who both captured the challenges and opportunities brought forth by the coronavirus

Clockwise from top left: The great Class of 2020; Dean of Students Jake Dellorco prepares class members to receive awards; diplomas await eager Sixth Formers; (left to right) Dean of Faculty Wright Danenbarger, Director of Curriculum Kelli Darrin, and Associate Head of School for Academics Sue Roberts facilitate the ceremony in their regalia; livestreaming of the virtual ceremony from Maguire Auditorium.

pandemic this spring, and immense gratitude and pride to be part of the Canterbury community.

The 104-member class was awarded their diplomas, with each student virtually joining Rachel Stone on stage, marking the Sixth Formers’ transition from Canterbury students to alumni. Though students accepted their diplomas from their own homes, the energy and excitement was palpable as their smiles radiated through the screen.

The ceremony closed with a benediction from Fr. Mark Connell and with a virtual “handshake” and words of congratulations from each faculty member, ending the year as it began for the class back in September.

Congratulations to all our 2020 graduates; we can’t wait to see you again and celebrate in person!

PAGE 23.

COMMENCEMENT

OPENING ADDRESS FROM HEAD OF SCHOOL RACHEL STONE Good morning, and welcome to Canterbury’s one-hundred-third Commencement Exercises, and first virtual Graduation. Thank you for joining us today—from across campus and around the world. We are grateful to celebrate the Class of 2020 with such an impressive cross-section of the extended Canterbury family: our faculty and staff; trustees, parents, grandparents, relatives, and friends; Fr. Mark, Mrs. D’Amour; and especially, the Class of 2020, 46 of whom are diehards.

I will admit that I struggled to pull my thoughts together for this morning’s remarks. The threads of ideas seemed too varied and too many, and I would get emotional just thinking back to starting this new chapter of our family’s life and work at Canterbury when many of you were Third Formers. This would then turn into unproductive bouts of nostalgia, whether I was remembering Jackson and Zach’s field hockey announcements last fall, the Sixth Form/ Faculty handshake at your opening dinner, and Runtian quietly standing up to speak that evening in the chapel as part of your retreat… or aching for all of you who missed your production of Chicago, one final lunch with your advisor, and your spring athletic season as Saints. I knew I had to snap out of it when I realized I was already feeling sad knowing how much I would miss Andrew and Meg next February on our shared birthday.

So, after going for a walk Wednesday evening, I decided: it’s time to go back to the beginning.

No surprise, it is a big deal to me that the Class of 2020 is my first four-year diehard class. This journey has been ours, and you have played the most significant role in helping a new Head of

PAGE 24.

“Thank you for being my, and Mr. Stone’s, diehard copilot class. For never taking this place for granted. For managing the disappointment and disruption of this spring with grace, humility, and resilience. And for loving this school, and one another, so deeply.”

School fall in love with Canterbury. Thank you.

I don’t think any of us can honestly remember my remarks during the Installation Ceremony in September 2016 (though I’m pretty sure we gave you cookies ahead of time!), so I went back and re-read them. The following paragraph helped me break out of the writing rut I was in: To join the Canterbury family is to become a member of a community united by love for this place, this experience, and the countless people with whom we cross paths along the way. If you take a moment to consider that this shared affection for Canterbury is spread across the country and around the globe, the collective and enduring impact our School has made is breathtaking, isn’t it? Let me weave in a sense of privilege with gratitude and pride; this family is not one to take for granted.

And there it was—the glue to pull all those threads together: This family is not one to take for granted.

This is why. Over the past several months, the coronavirus pandemic and resulting medical crisis have forced the question: what do you now

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

appreciate that you may have taken for granted prior to being isolated from friends, family, and community?

It’s a good and fair question, and certainly all of us have taken stock of what we value most, what we miss most, and how we will prioritize our time, our endeavors, and our choices moving forward. But here’s the thing: I believe that the Class of 2020 already knew not to take this campus, this experience, this family, for granted.

How do I know?

I know, because when I first ran into Erin, standing under that tree near the baseball field during her first days on campus and my first days with students on campus, she trusted a brand-new Head of School enough to let me try to be helpful to her. (Erin—I didn’t know where your soccer practice was either, but it looks like everything has worked out!)

I know, because Abby stood up in a School Meeting this year and said: “We already support each other in everything we do. Now we need to support each other in everything we are.” Several weeks later, Sabrina stood up

in School Meeting, turned to face all of you, and said: Everyone goes through tough times.

If you need someone, I will be that person for you. Gabe said the very same thing in Senior Chapel last night.

I know, because Alex decided to play football as a senior, Nessa brought AHANA to life on our hilltop, and Darren-Neil laced up skates and played hockey for the first time this winter.

I know, because you showed up for Bella and CC during their soccer championship journey, and for Charlie, Gabe, Mike, Tray, Marlon, and Mike for their basketball title. And because the football team stood behind one another all the way to a Bowl game, even when Joey and Trent had to stand from the sidelines.

I know, because the Sixth Form’s deep affection for Mr. Bice, who passed earlier this year, stemmed from your appreciation for his patience, wisdom, and guidance. Mr. Bice was there for you, and you did not take him for granted.

I know, because of Jack’s brave and emotional Saint on the Hill.

I know, because all of you chose a school and community that leans in to those ‘inbetween’ moments of our lives together on this hilltop: dropping by to chat with your advisor, hanging out in the dining hall long after you have finished off a piece of cake or cup of yogurt (with peanut butter and chocolate chips, of course), talking with your coach after practice, taking a deep breath in the CSSJ, and celebrating at the announcement of a Cereal Night. You chose a school, and family, where we do not take our time together for granted.

The week before you left for spring break, we had a power outage on campus. Some of you hunkered down in South House, but most of our Sixth Form boarders were packed into Steele, studying in conference rooms and the Admission Office, chatting in the dining hall,

cheering at the opening of the snack bar. You didn’t whine, and other than wondering where you would sleep that night if the power did not return, you were really good sports. I think we can all agree, though, that what you knew then about not taking this place for granted, you know even more acutely (and a little painfully) now. I’m pretty sure that the Class of 2020 would all show up on campus tonight to be stranded together in Steele Hall for two hours.

Snack bar or no snack bar. And I would be right there with you.

Thank you for being my, and Mr. Stone’s, diehard copilot class. For never taking this place for granted. For managing the disappointment and disruption of this spring with grace, humility, and resilience. And for loving this school, and one another, so deeply.”

J.P. Mandler Teaching Award The J.P. Mandler Teaching Award was created in honor of J.P. Mandler, who retired in 2017 after serving the School for 46 years in the roles of English Department Chair, Dean of Faculty, Director of Technology, Dean of the School, Senior Master, and longest-tenured faculty member. The award is presented each year to that faculty member who reflects the fundamental commitment to excellence in classroom teaching. As with most things, this year was a little different—the award was presented to the entire Canterbury Faculty.

Associate Head of School for Academics Sue Roberts presented the award, saying: “Today I would like to recognize the time and energy put forth by every faculty member at Canterbury who responded rapidly to the demands of distance learning. Our faculty managed to make this shift—to learn new technologies, redesign courses to humanize digital instruction, and connect and collaborate with colleagues, while also managing their own lives, health, and families under COVID-19. The attention, reflection, and care our faculty brought to both their teaching and their students during this time is nothing short of extraordinary.”

Sue went on to say, “I’d like to take this moment to pause—to notice the gravity and coordination of this very pivot. What we all have just accomplished, and are still accomplishing, is a magnificent achievement that should give us all enormous faith and trust in our faculty. As noted in the award description, the J.P. Mandler Teaching Award is presented each year for the fundamental commitment to excellence in classroom teaching. While we will all remember the 2019-20 academic year for the disruptions and chaos to humankind, each time we walk through Steele Hall and pass the J.P. Mandler Teaching Award, it will forever be remembered that we would not be where we are today without our faculty.”

This is the first time since the award was established that it has been presented to multiple faculty members.

Honorary Diploma Awarded to Visual and Performing Arts Chair Kim Tester During the Commencement ceremony, Visual and Performing Arts Department Chair Kim Tester was awarded an honorary diploma for her 30 years of dedicated teaching and service to the School. “Kim’s tenure here is certainly a result of how much the School values her work as an exceptional teacher in the Visual and Performing Arts Department,” Associate Head of School for Academics Sue Roberts noted. “Few are those who graduated in the last three decades who have not been impacted in ways large and small by her influence and dedication to teaching visual art. The School thanks Kim for her commitment to her students and her stewardship of the Visual and Performing Arts Department.”

PAGE 25.

COMMENCEMENT

“The difference between a faith-centered education and public education is that your life together here on this campus, both in the classroom and out, is guided by something larger than yourselves.” human letters from Assumption College, the

and shared her “five keys to success” for living

National Catholic Education Association’s

a good life: Sacrifice, Grace, Humility, Wisdom,

Elizabeth Seton Award, and the Association

and Gratitude. An excerpt of her speech follows:

of Fundraising Professionals Outstanding

“... What is the difference between your

Philanthropist Award.

Commencement Speaker

education at Canterbury School and the

Together with her husband, Donald, Michele

education you may have received elsewhere?

has raised five children—two of whom are

Both would no doubt have provided you with

Canterbury graduates of the classes of 1993

the opportunity to take challenging courses, be

and 1998—and enjoys her 12 grandchildren,

part of your desired sports teams, or be involved

three of whom are Canterbury Saints, with

in the performing arts. The difference between

one earning a diploma with the Class of 2020.

a faith-centered education and public education

Michele D’Amour, M. Ed. P ’93, ’98, GP

Through a historic $1 million gift to Canterbury

is that your life together here on this campus,

’20, ’22, ’23 was the chosen Commencement

in 2019, Michele and Donald named the

both in the classroom and out, is guided by

Speaker for the Class of 2020. Michele’s

D’Amour Center for Faith, Service & Justice,

something larger than yourselves. Here you have

professional accolades include 50 years in the

which will be housed in the new Steers Center

been prepared to become citizens of society and

family business—Big Y Foods, Inc.—where,

and will centralize the School’s community

citizens of the city of God. This means living in

prior to her retirement in 2019, she most

service, social justice, and servant leadership

grace, possessing the wisdom of what is true and

recently held the position of Educational

programming.

what is good, and understanding the strength

During the virtual Commencement ceremony,

in humility and the importance of sacrifice and

Partnership Administrator, a role responsible for community initiatives such as Kids Count with Big Y and Homework Helpline. A graduate of

Michele addressed the graduating class via video

Westfield State College, MA, Michele holds a Master’s Degree in Education from American International College, MA. She has had a variety of teaching experiences and has also worked at the college level supervising student teachers. She has served on many boards and committees over the years and has a long record of philanthropy, primarily focused on education and the arts. She currently serves as chairperson of the board of Pope Francis Preparatory School, MA, and has served many years as chairperson of the Parent Television Council, CA, and as trustee of Assumption College, MA. She has received much recognition for her philanthropic work, including an honorary doctorate of PAGE 26.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

gratitude.

Because of the coronavirus, you have had an opportunity—yes, an opportunity—to look inward and bring forth the skills you have learned to become a successful human being. You have untold strengths, resources, and talents inside you yet to be discovered. Oftentimes they are discovered in the midst of when life seems to be going all wrong. I would suggest that this world health crisis is just one of these moments where you were tested in how to gracefully receive sacrifice and summon the wisdom and humility to not only make it through a difficult situation but rise up in service.

Your plans, on many levels, were dashed.

Disappointment set in when you discovered there would be no prom and no formal graduation, no last hurrah with your Canterbury family.

Perhaps some of you have family members who are or have been ill from the virus or your parent lost their job because of it. Open your mind and heart to the lesson that lies in the disaster, and you will be “taught” what to do next. Open your mind and your heart to life.

As you “commence” a new chapter in your lives, be it on to college or whatever postgraduate experience you have chosen...be open to opportunities to trying something new. You may find that what you think you want to do is not what God wants you to do. Develop an appetite for learning and learn to hear what God is asking of you.

Let your life be a shining symbol for others. Let everything you do be in service to others…. …My prayer is that you did not sleep in when the major lessons of sacrifice, grace, wisdom, humility, and gratitude were taught at Canterbury and modeled at home by your parents and that you move forward to accomplish great things. Congratulations to

COMMENCEMENT AWARDS Several Sixth Formers were presented with special awards during Commencement to honor their contributions to the School.

The Roderick Clarke ’46 Distinguished Academic Achievement Award was presented to the Class of 2020 Valedictorian Sabrina Capodicci.

The Robert M. Steele ’72 Scholar-Athlete Trophy for academic and athletic achievement was presented to Ryan Greguski.

The Charles R. Huntington Scholar-Athlete Trophy for academic and athletic achievement was awarded to Isabella Cotier.

The Elizabeth (Betty) Burke Award, given to a Sixth Former whose time at Canterbury has been marked by a cheerful determination to serve God and others, was presented to Grace LaVigne and Justin Schneider.

The Class of 1987 Citizenship Award, given to a student who, in the judgment of classmates, has best fulfilled obligations to school, to fellow students, and to self, was presented to Jackson Zavatsky.

The Richard L. and Mary Catharine Farrelly Award, presented to the Sixth Former who serves Canterbury quietly, but thoroughly, was given to MaryBridget Horvath.

The Philip H. Brodie Award for exceptional achievement and all-around service to the School was given to eight students: Sabrina Capodicci, Jillian Carleton, Brigida Caruso, Gabriel Diamond, Ryan Greguski, Grace LaVigne, Venessa Okoroanyanwu, and Abigail Omaña.

The Dr. Nelson Hume Award, given to the Sixth Former whose leadership, character, and achievements have been of the highest order, and whose performance embodies the ideals of the founding Headmaster, was presented to Erin Sudbey.

each and every one of you!”

PAGE 27.

COMMENCEMENT

VALEDICTORIAN REMARKS BY SABRINA CAPODICCI ’20 This is an excerpt from a speech that was delivered on video by Valedictorian Sabrina Capodicci and shared live with the Class of 2020 at their Commencement on May 23, 2020. Sabrina was the recipient of the Roderick Clarke ’46 Distinguished Academic Achievement Award for Sixth Form, one of eight recipients of the Philip H. Brodie Award for exceptional achievement and all-around service to the School, recipient of the Allen A. Ryan Award for excellence in the study of history, and recipient of the Hubert McDonnell Award for excellence in the study of theology. She was a member of the Sixth Form Council and the Canterbury Honor Society, an actor in the fall theater production of All I Really Need to Know I Learned by Being in a Bad Murder Mystery, and an actor and co-writer in the winter original production Secrets. She is currently enrolled at the University of Notre Dame, IN. thanks to Canterbury—its teachers, staff, administration, and everyone who lends their time and talents to make our school as wonderful as it is. We know that the adults on campus are not just instructors (or drill sergeants on the athletic field!) but are also our mentors, dorm parents, advisors, and yes, our friends.

N

othing can spoil the three-and-ahalf years of fond memories that came before [our final spring semester]. I know I’ll always remember the cheering and camaraderie of the Pink Out, the powerful moments spent around the bonfire after a rousing pep rally, many emotional moments at the Emmaus retreat, and all the incredible plays, music performances, and art shows.

Us diehards were around for Mr. Kiefer’s eventful Foundations of Civilizations, Ms. Behan’s grueling but rewarding Honors Bio, and Mrs. O’Meara’s endless patience as we repeatedly forgot how to use the databases for our research papers.

Indeed, we are actually Mrs. Stone’s first diehard class. When she was installed as Head of School, we were a little band of freshmen getting restless in our seats, and now look how far we’ve all come.

So let us take a moment to be grateful, as many of us have in advisory these past few months. First and foremost, we owe our

PAGE 28.

Let us thank our families for the sacrifices they’ve made to send us here—and thanks for the late-night pickups, all you day parents out there!

But on this day that is celebrating us and the numerous impacts we have had, let us reserve our deepest gratitude for one another. Our friends help us through our homework and help us through our toughest times. They support us at our highest highs as we step on the stage or the field, and they support us at our lowest lows when we desperately need a shoulder to lean on. Thank you for the lessons and the memories, everyone. I know we have forged bonds here that even a pandemic cannot break.

Finally, I want to leave you with an incredible poem that’s stuck with me ever since I read it in Mr. Bush’s legendary sophomore English class. William Ernest Henley’s “Invictus” has gotten me through everything from AP week slumps to quarantine blues, and I hope these words will inspire you as you consider where your future might take you.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

Out of the night that covers me, Black as the Pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance, I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance My head is bloody but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the Horror of the shade And yet, the menace of the years Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul.

And with that, I want to leave you feeling the true spirit of the Class of 2020. I wish each of you the best as we take another step towards our destinies, and remember—our futures are so, so bright… but our vision is 2020.

Class of 2020 College Matriculation List OUR GRADUATES ARE OFF TO GREAT PLACES! Belmont University

Iona College

Trinity College (3)

Bentley University

Ithaca College (3)

Trinity College Dublin

Boston College

Manhattanville College

Tufts University

Boston University (3)

Marist College

University of Arizona

Brown University (3)

Miami University, Oxford (3)

University of California, Berkeley

California State University, Stanislaus

Middlebury College

University of California, Los Angeles (3)

Carleton College

Nassau Community College

University of California, Santa Barbara

Central Connecticut State University

New York University (4)

University of Connecticut (2)

Clark University

Pomona College

University of Denver

Clarkson University

Providence College

University of Notre Dame

Colby College

Quinnipiac University (2)

University of Ottawa (2)

College of Charleston

Rice University

University of Rhode Island

College of Saint Rose

Roanoke College

University of Richmond

Connecticut College

Rochester Institute of Technology

University of Rochester

Denison University

Roger Williams University

University of San Diego

Elon University (3)

Sacred Heart University

University of Southern California

Emerson College

San Diego State University

University of Tampa

Fairfield University (4)

Santa Clara University

University of Vermont

Fairleigh Dickinson University

Skidmore College

Vanderbilt University

Georgetown University

Southern Methodist University

Western New England University

Gettysburg College

Stetson University

Wheaton College

Hamilton College

Stonehill College

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Hobart William Smith Colleges

Susquehanna University

Yale University

Indiana University, Bloomington (2)

Temple University

PAGE 29.

A Fresh Start

COMMUNITY GARDEN BRINGS NEW LIFE—AND ORGANIC PRODUCE—TO THE HILLTOP

By Meredith Berry-Toon

A

fter weeks of baking copious amounts of banana bread, a group of faculty members decided in mid-April that it

was time to follow the next quarantine trend—to construct a

community garden. With inspiration pouring in from timely online articles and expansive green fields on campus to plot

“Gardening gave me purpose in the quarantine months.

It made me get outside, be physical, and be accountable for taking care of something.”

CHARLES HOLLINGER

out a harvest space, the spring months in quarantine were

the perfect combination of time and weather to successfully complete the project.

and Performing Arts), Mrs. Lord (English), and Mr. Hewston

(History) spearheading the project, Mr. Roberts (Mathematics), Ms. Ruderman (Science), and Mr. Lord (Languages) provided

ample help in weeding and harvesting the plants. Mrs. Omaña

(Theology) and Mr. Roffe (Innovation) aided the project as well— by taste-testing the plants once they were grown and admiring

the quickly-sprouting blooms! The team even used the compost

For those involved, the desire to help with creating the

created from our Dining Hall’s scraps as fertilizer.

spending time in nature, and working towards an attainable

the garden, towering over the garden walls with their faces

community garden was a mixture of practicing sustainability,

As of late July, sunflowers have shot up on either side of

common goal. “I knew I wanted to get involved as soon as

open towards one another as if participating in a continuous

the idea of a community garden was pitched,” noted Ms.

Ruderman, faculty in the Science Department. “Especially

during this quarantine, it was a wonderful way to get out of the house in a safe way and to put physical work into something

with concrete rewards.” Mr. Hollinger, faculty in the Visual and Performing Arts Department, added, “Gardening gave me

purpose in the quarantine months. It made me get outside, be

physical, and be accountable for taking care of something.” The

community garden also provided faculty with an opportunity to share previously honed habits with others. Several on-campus

families compost regularly and most faculty grow herbs or farm small, raised-bed gardens in their own spaces. The community

garden became a place for faculty to be together and learn from one another in these practices.

Not only was the project a group effort from the start—from site planning to construction to sowing the seeds—the garden’s continued cultivation included collaboration from every

PAGE 30.

academic department on campus. With Mr. Hollinger (Visual

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

conversation. The tomato plants have wrapped tentacles of

vines around the homemade fences, and the corn stalks are budding several feet off the ground in time for an early fall

crop. Beans, peppers, potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, melons, and a variety of herbs have all also popped up in the garden and

grown tremendously within just a few months of being planted.

While the sustainable gardening aspect of the project was a pull for many of those who committed their time, the community

aspect was equally important. “It helped us maintain a sense

of togetherness,” remarked Mrs. Lord. “So while we couldn’t all

be physically near each other, we could feel connected through a common goal.” And the delicious and plentiful mid- and latesummer rewards were definitely an incentive!

With the full community back on campus, those involved with creating the community garden plan to map out studentoriented programming to invite student participation.

C L U B S

MAKING AN IMPACT FOR YEARS TO COME One of the main tenets of a Canterbury education is an emphasis on students taking an active role to build and participate in the School community and the world beyond.

Our students are central to our priorities and programming and they have great ideas; if they can envision something, we make it happen. Saints have taken the lead on a diverse assortment of clubs and initiatives, gaining support from their peers and faculty to grow their interests and discover new ones. They have created open and inclusive spaces to teach, learn, and empathize with a wide array of topics, including climate justice and environmental issues, diversity and belonging, and gender and identity. We talked to several members of the Class of 2020 about their student-led initiatives and their hopes for creating a lasting impact on the community.

Venessa Okoroanyanwu ’20 (University of Richmond ’24) helps facilitate discussions in seminars led by AHANA during Social Justice Week.

Ryan Greguski ’20 (Middlebury College ’24) makes his way down the slopes during one of the Outing Club’s ski trips.

Top of page: Sustainability Club president Maeve O’Donnell ’20 (Stetson University ’24), and members Kayla Jendras ’20 (Providence College ’24), MaryBridget Horvath ’20 (Hobart William Smith Colleges ’24), Qixiu Yao ’22, and Benjamin Secor ’21 build a compost system next to the chicken coop.

PAGE 31.

C L U B S

SUSTAINABILITY CLUB Maeve O’Donnell ’20

Originally founded in the 1990s as the Environmental Club, the Sustainability Club was revamped by science teacher Cammy Roffe and several students in 2017. Maeve led the Sustainability Club this past year to help create awareness and action for environmental issues. She was presented with the Edward F. Mack Award this spring for her Outstanding Contributions to the Sustainability Club and was also involved with Women of Canterbury and the Diversity and Inclusion Club. A die-hard (four-year) student, Maeve was on the field hockey and crew teams throughout her time at Canterbury. She is attending Stetson University, FL where she plans to major in aquatic and marine biology.

PAGE 32.

Tell us about this club’s mission and how you got involved.

The club’s mission is to inform and educate people about environmental issues the planet is facing. Everything we do is with the goal of planting a seed—even if it’s just one small thing that sparks interest for someone, maybe one day they’ll think about it a little more and start to see what Sustainability Club was all about.

What (or who) inspired you to take on such an active role in this club?

Mrs. Roffe was my biology teacher and Varsity Field Hockey coach in my Third Form year (the year we won the New England championship!).

Mrs. Roffe decided to change our Environmental Club to a Sustainability Club, and I remember coming back to campus in the fall and wondering, “what does ‘sustainability’ mean?”

When she explained it, I knew that was exactly what I’ve been passionate about for so long, and what I wanted to dedicate my future to. I think

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

growing up on Long Island, living two minutes away from a preserve and ten minutes away from the beach, played a role in my passion for the environment. So did my dad—he loves hiking, camping, and the outdoors, and he shared that love with me.

What do you hope members gain from being involved?

I hope members gain an understanding of the role they all play in the health and status of our planet, and our community as well. A big thing I struggled with was figuring out my impact on the planet and on my community. I would wonder if all the work we did was pointless because a few people making the switch to going plastic-free, vegan, and zero-waste wasn’t going to stop global warming. But Mrs. Roffe taught me that even though our impact may be small as individuals, we have to keep planting those seeds, cutting down our own plastic intake, and reducing our own carbon footprints because it can make an impact on the people around us.

GENDER-SEXUALITY ALLIANCE (GSA) Jilly Carleton ’20

AHANA (AFRICAN, HISPANIC, ASIAN AND NATIVE AMERICAN) CLUB Venessa Okoroanyanwu ’20

The Canterbury chapter of AHANA was started in 2019. This year, Venessa led AHANA and helped foster a space for students of color from every grade. In addition to AHANA, Venessa served on the Sixth Form Council, the Canterbury Diversity and Inclusion Club, the Gender-Sexuality Alliance, and the Special Events Committee, and played on several sports teams. She was a recipient of the Edward F. Mack Award for Outstanding Contributions in Student Government and the Philip H. Brodie Award for exceptional achievement and allaround service to the School. Venessa is enrolled at the University of Richmond, VA, and plans to double major in biology and healthcare studies.

Tell us about this club’s mission and how you got involved.

The overall goal of AHANA is to provide a space where students of color from every grade can meet, interact with, and support one another.

What were some of the most significant things you learned from your leadership role?

The most significant thing that I learned was the importance of having a purpose. There were times that I was overwhelmed. During those moments I really had to remind myself that AHANA isn’t about me, but about future students of color, and ensuring that they have support. I hope that AHANA gives students of color a space to provide familiarity, support, and friendship to one another.

Do you plan to start or join a similar club in college?

I plan on being heavily involved in multicultural affairs at my college by joining student organizations like the Black Student Alliance and the Multicultural Student Solidarity Network, as well as by participating in different conferences and programs offered by the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

The GSA was founded nationally in 1988, and the Canterbury chapter was started in 2019 by Jilly Carleton ’20. Jilly was a member of the Canterbury Honor Society, worked as the stage manager in the theatre, facilitated at the Student Diversity Leadership Conference, was a day proctor, and was on the leadership council for Women of Canterbury.

Jilly was the recipient of the Edward F. Mack Award for Outstanding Contributions to Theatre for Technical Theater and one of eight recipients of the Philip H. Brodie Award for exceptional achievement and all-around service to the School. Jilly is currently enrolled at Clark University, MA, studying biology.

Tell us about the GSA’s mission and how you got involved.

My mission in starting this club was to foster an even broader sense of inclusion and openness in the Canterbury community through creating a safe space to discuss identities, as well as to educate the community in a way that is typically lacking in many school environments.

What were some of the most significant things you learned from your leadership role?

I think that one of the most important things in starting a club centered around inclusion, specifically regarding the LGBTQ+ community, is a base of education. While I have been surrounding myself with resources and other members of the LGBTQ+ community, I realize that many do not have that in their lives. Therefore, I wanted to foster a friendly environment to learn and discuss, which for many students is a first regarding this topic.

What do you hope the club achieves moving forward?

My hope for current and future members is that they have learned, and will continue to learn, more about my community, including different identities and experiences, and that I have inspired them to go on and create inclusive spaces wherever they are. My serious hope is that this club outlasts me for generations and continues to educate and create spaces where people can truly be themselves without fear, as well as advocating for LGBTQ+ students.

PAGE 33.

Tell us about the Outing Club’s mission and how you got involved.

C L U B S

MARYBRIDGET: We are still working on a set mission statement; however, I think the main goal of the club is to get more people involved and excited about the natural world, to explore new activities, and get out in nature or experience a new skill. I got involved with the Outing Club because I love to be outdoors and it was a great little group to challenge myself and do things I had never done before.

OUTING CLUB

MaryBridget Horvath ’20 and Ryan Greguski ’20

The Outing Club was founded at Canterbury in 2019 by MaryBridget Horvath ’20, Ryan Greguski ’20, and science teacher Ms. Bryce Wallis.

This year, MaryBridget was presented with three Edward F. Mack Awards for Outstanding Contributions to the Women of Canterbury, for Outstanding Contributions to Theatre for Technical Theater, and for Outstanding Service as a Proctor. She was also the recipient of the Richard L. and Mary Catharine Farrelly Award, presented to the Sixth Former who serves Canterbury quietly, but thoroughly. MaryBridget is currently enrolled at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, NY where she plans to major in environmental studies.

Ryan was a member of the Canterbury Honor Society, recipient of the Edward F. Mack Awards for Outstanding Contributions to Theatre for Performance in a Male Role, The Robert M. Steele ’72 Scholar-Athlete Trophy for academic and athletic achievement (he broke the School’s—and his own—diving record several times during his four years!), and was one of eight recipients of the Philip H. Brodie Award for exceptional achievement and all-around service to the School. Ryan is currently enrolled at Middlebury College, VT.

What (or who) inspired you to take on such an active role in this club?

RYAN: What really inspired me to get involved with the Outing Club is my love of the outdoors.

It was incredible to see other people sharing the same passion for getting outside and being active.

I also really loved introducing outdoor activities, for example, skiing, to people who had never skied before. I also loved hearing how many ideas everyone came up with for trips that we could plan in the future.

What do you hope members gain from being involved?

MARYBRIDGET: I hope that people feel like the outdoors is for everyone—that you don’t have to be super committed to outdoor activities, or be a pro at anything to join and go on some great trips.

Another hope I have for the club is that members see their peers in different environments. Maybe the quiet kid from your English class is an incredible rock climber and outdoor enthusiast and could talk all day about that skill, and you would have never known that unless you went on an Outing Club trip with them. I hope the club continues to provide a space for different people to be the educator and everyone in the club to practice leadership skills.

What do you hope the club achieves moving forward?

Diana Turner ’20 and Ryan Greguski ’20 share a lift during one of the Outing Club’s ski trips.

PAGE 34.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

RYAN: I really hope that the Outing Club is able to keep growing at Canterbury. I think that there are a lot of opportunities for many different trips that would attract students with a wide variety of interests. We had so many ideas for trips that we didn’t get to do this year. I even hope that someday the Outing Club might be involved in some orientation activities for new students. I think that the outdoors are a great place for new students to get to know each other and bond.

What were some of the most significant things you learned from your leadership role?

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION CLUB Maliyah Perkins ’20

The Canterbury Diversity and Inclusion Club was founded in 2017, and Maliyah helped lead the club during the 2019-20 school year. She also facilitated workshops during Social Justice Week, and was the master of ceremonies during the Fourth Form Retreat Oxfam Hunger Banquet, which highlighted issues surrounding hunger and poverty. Maliyah was a member of the track and field team, and she is enrolled at University of Connecticut, CT, where she is pursuing a major in political science.

Tell us about this club’s mission and how you got involved.

The CDIC seeks to promote diversity on campus, whether it be through discussion, films, presentations, activities, etc. We look for ways

This club allowed me to become more comfortable talking about topics that many find uncomfortable to speak about. I learned to lean into discomfort, and that you can only speak from your own truth and experience, which is important and valued. It made me more passionate about seeking ways to bring more diversity to campus and emphasized how important it is to have a diverse and educated community. to educate Canterbury’s community in areas that make us diverse. I went to the first meeting when the club began in my Third Form year. I went because it is important to recognize and discuss topics like race, and for people to have a space without judgment to speak freely and feel comfortable sharing their own experience.

What do you hope members gain from being involved?

I want people to be able to speak from their own experience and be comfortable doing so. I hope members gain a better understanding of their peers and learn how their experiences may differ from those of their classmates.

CHICKEN KEEPERS CLUB Erin Sudbey ’20

The Chicken Keepers Club was started at Canterbury in 2016, and Erin Sudbey was the club’s President for the 2019-20 school year. Erin was a Sacristan, Proctor, and Lead Ambassador, and was a recipient of several awards, including the Edward F. Mack Award for Outstanding Contributions to Community Service, the Hubert Mcdonnell Award for excellence in the study of theology, the Terence F. Carmody Award for excellence in the study of Spanish, and the esteemed Dr. Nelson Hume Award, given to the Sixth Former whose leadership, character, and achievements have been of the highest order, and whose performance embodies the ideals of the School’s founder. She has also been recognized with a National Community Service Award in consecutive years by the United Nations Association for her commitment to helping others. Erin is currently enrolled at Boston College, MA.

Tell us about this club’s mission.

The Chicken Keepers Club is committed to educating about the importance of agriculture and self-actualization, stewardship, and respecting food sources, and is focused on understanding self-sustaining agriculture, learning how to manage egg-sales and a budget, giving back to the community, and maintaining a successful flock. The club donates a percentage of the money raised from selling eggs to Heifer International, an organization working to end hunger and poverty around the world by providing livestock and training to struggling communities.

What do you hope members gain from being involved?

Through the organization Heifer International, I hoped that members would gain a better understanding of the importance of agriculture and farming in self-sustainability and in women’s empowerment. Heifer International works

with farmers and small business owners across the globe, and in our little campus in New Milford, CT, we have the unique opportunity to explore what it means to utilize agriculture and connect with the environment. Given that attending a boarding school is a privilege, I found it especially important to recognize how the opportunities we have and the education we are provided can be put to a greater purpose, one that is not self-serving, that places emphasis on helping others, and values the land and animals.

Do you plan to start or join a similar club in college?

During my time at Boston College, I plan to continue doing service work and exploring the many different ways in which I can give back to the local community. It’s hard to say whether I’ll find myself in a chicken coop while in college, but I never expected to be in one when I started at Canterbury, so who knows!

PAGE 35.

MEETING OUR STUDENTS WHERE THEY ARE

Students proudly wore t-shirts from their soon-to-be alma mater on College T-Shirt Day.

PAGE 36.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

T

his unprecedented spring, Canterbury shifted to distance learning and online experiences to keep our community members safe. Despite the changes and physical separation, one thing was clear: the distance only made our family of Saints stronger.

Like most schools across the world, Canterbury made the difficult, albeit necessary, decision to close down the campus in the beginning of March due to the outbreak of COVID-19. While during the early stages the School was still cautiously optimistic about a return to campus later in the spring, it quickly became apparent that the 2019-20 school year would conclude quite differently than anticipated.

On March 30th—and for the first time in its 105-year history—Canterbury began the spring semester remotely, following the end of an extended March break. In order to ensure the best experience for its students, Canterbury faculty and staff spent the three-and-a-half weeks between the closure of campus and the start of online distance learning consulting with medical and public health experts (including Director of Health Services Colleen Cook, R.N. ’02, School Physician Ken Marici, M.D. ’87, P ’20, ’22, and Trustee Anna Flik, M.D. P ’21); brainstorming and collaborating with peer schools; mastering new technologies and teaching methodologies; creating engaging and interactive online lessons; building web pages and social media accounts to keep the community healthy and connected; and making themselves available to students who had questions, concerns, or just wanted to talk. The faculty adjusted to these monumental tasks in the only way they knew how: by pouring all of themselves into the new endeavor to make the transition as seamless as possible for students.

The School took a holistic approach to distance learning, focusing not just on providing academic excellence, but physical, and emotional wellness, too. As classes, School Meetings, activities, traditions, and even athletics, pivoted to an online format, it was expected that there would be some bumps and hiccups along the way. However, what this spring proved was that Canterbury prepares its students (and faculty) to meet any challenges that arise head-on and with grace.

“While it was certainly difficult for me to imagine my senior spring online, my teachers and coaches helped me and my classmates navigate the uncertain times through their constant support.”

— ISABELLA COTIER ’20 (BROWN UNIVERSITY ’24)

(CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)

PAGE 37.

MEETING OUR STUDENTS WHERE THEY ARE

ACADEMICS

T

hough moving to

of the schedule also promoted

online classes was

time “away from the screen,”

certainly an adjustment,

so that students could still have

Canterbury’s Distance

opportunities to take breaks,

Learning Plan made

exercise, and socialize to the best

use of tools such as

of their ability.

Veracross (Canterbury’s learning management system) and Google Suite that were already familiar to students and faculty and helped ease the shift. The plan included both “synchronous” (live) and “asynchronous” (on-demand) learning opportunities through Zoom and Google. Synchronous classes occurred in real time, with students attending virtually via Zoom. These classes were recorded so that if a student was absent or living in a time zone that was incompatible with the class schedule, they would be able to watch the recordings in their own time. Asynchronous classes took place via Veracross, allowing students to engage in class materials and complete work at their own pace, typically within a given timeframe, often using discussion boards to drive peer-topeer engagement.

For international students, the timing of classes was the biggest challenge, as many were not able to join in real time. Faculty ensured each student felt included and confident in their coursework and had opportunities to work with their peers. Jiayi Wu ’20 (Vanderbilt University ’24), is from Shanghai, China, and said that though she was not able to attend most live classes, she felt supported and prepared for college after the spring semester.

“As an international student, I was not able to attend classes synchronously due to the time difference. Nonetheless, my teachers posted the recorded classes online for students like me to watch and changed the due dates of assignments and assessments accordingly.” She continued, “Since timed tests were no longer practical, we

Science Teacher Derek Richardson documented one of his first virtual Animal Anatomy classes for Third Formers.

Just as with a typical, in-person

immediate and future dividends

course, faculty were available

throughout their lives. The DCL

daily for scheduled “office

remained a steadfast resource

hours” to offer students time to

this spring, helping students learn

connect about the class material,

how to manage their time within

ask questions, and check-in on

the new schedule, offering one-

projects and assignments. Faculty

on-one tutoring with a faculty

made sure to include virtual one-

member or peer in any subject,

on-one time with each student to

developing study skills and test-

assess their understanding of the

taking methods, and preparing for

lessons and identify any points

standardized tests (though many

where they might need extra help,

were later postponed). The DCL

often in collaboration with the

provided students with invaluable

Donovan Center for Learning

skills and tools to become

(DCL).

successful learners no matter the

The schedule of classes was

were asked to do more group

abridged to five days (Monday-

projects, which also helped us to

Friday), with each class meeting

check our progress and review

synchronously twice per week

what we had learned. Thanks to

Over the past three years, the

course or its format.

(once for 60 minutes and once for

the support of our community, I

DCL has emerged as a hub for

These skills were certainly

45 minutes), allowing students’

was able to finish strong and felt

every Canterbury student to

pertinent for Sixth Formers,

work to be staggered appropriately

very much prepared for college

practice distinct academic and

many of whom will continue with

through the week. The flexibility

academically.”

organizational habits that will pay

distance learning as they embark

PAGE 38.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

on their college careers. Without

offer the chance for students of

the possibility of in-person college

all grades and faculty to enjoy a

visits this spring, the College

meal and get to know one another.

Counseling department went

Sunday Mass in the Chapel of

into overdrive, helping Sixth

Our Lady provides a moment of

Formers complete virtual visits and

collective pause and reflection.

putting them in touch with college

Sports games rally fans and

representatives, current students,

friends on the fields and courts in

and alumni to help them feel

support of team members. It is

confident in their decisions. The

not just a school but a home, and

department held weekly College

the absence of so many of these

Workgroups for Fifth and Sixth

community gatherings throughout

Formers and met individually

the week was challenging to say

via Zoom. They were even able

the least.

to replicate their Spring College

This was especially true for the

day activities by offering a mock application reading exercise for students and parents, and college representatives helped by recording themselves breaking down the applications and highlighting the aspects of each that they found important. For many of our 2020 graduates, the biggest challenge as they start at their respective colleges and universities will be finding their own community within their school while socially distancing or participating remotely—especially after coming from such a closeknit family at Canterbury.

Class of 2020 who saw many

our community, I was able to finish strong and felt very much prepared for college academically.”

— JIAYI WU ’20 (VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY ’24)

alterations to their plans for the culmination of their academic careers. Isabella Cotier ’20 (Brown University ’24) shared, “While it was certainly difficult for me to imagine my senior spring online, my teachers and coaches helped me and my classmates navigate the uncertain times through their constant support.” She continued, “I was able to receive all of the extra help in my classes that I needed by simply stopping by one of the scheduled office hour periods throughout the day. My teachers were always available

Saints know that one of the most

and eager to help me with any

defining qualities of a Canterbury

confusion that I had with my

education is its emphasis on

assignments. Similarly, my lacrosse

community. Several times per

coaches were very supportive,

week, you can expect to see the

and we were all able to connect

entire faculty and student body

as a team over Zoom. We even

together, in one place. All-School

virtually participated in the “Yards

meetings happen three times per

for Yeardley 5K Challenge,”

week, bringing everyone together

which was a great experience that

in Maguire Auditorium to share

made our team feel even more

updates and stories. Sit-down

connected.”

lunches and family-style dinners

“Thanks to the support of

A stormy evening sky in April settles over the Nelson Hume building and Steele Hall. Photo by Grace LaVigne ’20.

(CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)

PAGE 39.

MEETING OUR STUDENTS WHERE THEY ARE

ACADEMICS CONTINUED Many of the traditions and activities, like prom, the Sixth Form Retreat, senior week in sports, college visits, and, of course, Commencement, could not take place in the way the graduating class had envisioned. Without the possibility of a large, in-person Commencement Ceremony and all the deserved fanfare it is preceded by, it became even more important to honor all those individual and collective achievements of a class who have not only persevered but have become a part of history. Canterbury faculty and staff held virtual planning meetings with the graduating class to brainstorm ways to carry on celebrations and traditions safely and remotely.

They performed several dress rehearsals for the ceremony itself, created virtual versions of important traditions like the painting of the rock on Sheehan Family Field and shaking each faculty member’s hand at the end of graduation, and sent care packages to each student prior to Commencement. While the 103rd Commencement Exercises looked very different from past years, they honored the Class of 2020 with enthusiasm, gratitude, and pride.

PAGE 40.

Director of Counseling Cynthia Willmen leads a weekly virtual mindfulness session to help students and faculty start their day.

HEALTH, WELLNESS & SPIRITUALITY

K

eeping the health of the community at

and also included an option to submit questions

the forefront, Canterbury expanded its

anonymously—be they about nutrition, fitness,

services and offerings to accommodate

health, wellness, or spirituality—that would be

students wherever they were. To

answered by corresponding faculty and staff. With

replicate the welcoming, “open door”

the global health landscape changing week-to-

nature of both our Health Center

week, Canterbury also offered a Weekly Q&A

and the Center for Spirituality, Service & Justice,

via Zoom for parents and families with Head of

the School created a webpage for students that

School Rachel Stone, Director of Health Services

includes tips and resources for promoting physical,

Colleen Cook, R.N. ’02, and other members of the

emotional, and spiritual health.

Administrative and Health Services teams.

Through the Health & Wellness website, students

In addition to the opportunity for personalized

were able to connect with faculty in whichever

support, the website included a wealth of

way they felt most comfortable to find support

information and resources for students to explore

or answers. The website allowed students to

on their own, including emotional health and

book virtual one-on-one appointments with the

coping strategies with links to helpful apps; physical

School’s nurses, athletic trainers, and counselors,

fitness ideas and challenges; and nutrition tips and

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

Spirituality remained a vital part of school life with live streams of music playing in the Chapel of Our Lady, virtual meditation and journaling opportunities, and the traditional Baccalaureate Mass celebrated by Fr. Mark Connell (pictured here).

Athletic Trainer Steve Gooler shows students via video how to create their own “rowing machine” at home.

recipes. Four days a week, Director of Counseling Cynthia Willmen invited students to participate in morning reflective meditation and mindfulness exercises, with the intention to teach students and faculty how to practice staying present through challenging times.

Athletic Trainer Steve Gooler

“Throughout such a trying time, it was difficult to stay mentally positive. But the contribution from the SEC [Canterbury Student Events Committee] and the support groups (like the Health Center Wellness Checks and meditation) the School offered helped me greatly.”

— SEAN QUAYE ’21

created weekly workouts and showed students how to make some of their own athletic equipment to help keep them physically active. In fact, students became so dedicated to continuing their athletic pursuits that Steve customized workouts by request and also helped organize weekly fitness challenges.

Collectively, students “planked” over three hours, with students in the Fifth Form planking for two minutes on average! This challenge turned into a Form competition each week with alternating activities for students to test their skills and get active.

Theology teacher and Director of the Center for Spirituality, Service

& Justice (CSSJ) Tracy Garcia-

for meditation, reflection, and prayer. The Health & Wellness webpage

LaVigne posted tips to nourish

As service to others is one of the main served as a way for students to stay connected to each other and to tenets of Canterbury’s education

the body and soul, including several nutritious and easy-tomake recipes for students to try at home. Without weekly Mass to bring the community together, Tracy kept students engaged in spiritual dialogue by posting journal prompts each week to help them reflect and process, and included daily prayer videos from Sacristans. She also shared live streaming music playing in

and a focal point of the CSSJ in particular, Tracy also made sure that students could remain connected to many of the organizations where they volunteer. Students wrote letters to residents at the local Village Crest Nursing home, as they were not allowed visitors, and they responded with a heartfelt video saying how much they missed their Canterbury visits. Several students also took it

the Chapel of Our Lady on Good upon themselves to make or donate Friday so that anyone from the masks and PPE to the Town of New community could virtually join

and say a prayer or use the time

Milford to be distributed to local

faculty outside of classes through the spring semester and has been updated to continue to serve the community through the 2020-21

school year. In addition to its initial features, the site now includes helpful tips and links about how to choose, wear, and care for a mask, protocol for social distancing while on campus, information about COVID symptoms and testing, and how the School will be monitoring the situation on campus.

(CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)

essential workers.

PAGE 41.

MEETING OUR STUDENTS WHERE THEY ARE

STUDENT LIFE

W

hile this spring

day. While part of the meeting

presented unique

was to make sure all students were

challenges for our

awake and ready to log into class

faculty and staff to

(yes, some advisors had to hit the

navigate, it was equally, if not

redial button more than once…), it

more, difficult for our students.

also became a moment to develop

Classes moved to Zoom, many of

relationships with each of the other

their books and course resources

students in advisory along with

available online, and athletic

the assigned faculty member. In

practices were hosted virtually,

distinction to the previous weekly

albeit with some modifications and

or bi-weekly meetings, the advisory

adjusted workouts.

block functioned as a breakfast

Still, the one unequivocally

class, almost as if everyone was

irreplaceable facet of daily Canterbury life—some might say the most essential part of any highschool experience—was missing: friends! But in the same way that our teachers accommodated the unexpected changes of the spring and created the best learning environment possible, our students met this adjustment with deep resolve and energy. Students created new outlets to connect with one another and also used the Canterbury network already

sitting at a round table, sleepily biting on bagels together in the Dining Hall. “I felt so disconnected and lonely before online classes began in early April,” began JiWon

The Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse team meets over Zoom with Coach Lindsay Mulhern. Athletic teams continued to meet virtually throughout the spring and many participated in collective challenges or fundraisers. The Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse Team completed the Yards for Yeardley 5k Challenge along with girls’ and womens’ lacrosse teams across the country to benefit the One Love Foundation, an organization whose mission is to educate young people about healthy and unhealthy relationships, empowering them to identify and avoid abuse and learn how to love better.

Lee ’20 (New York University ’24).

“Thankfully, my Zoom classes— especially advisory—kept me energized and they made sure I still felt connected regardless of the physical distance. It was a daily reminder that I am still part of the community and was an amazing outlet to express how anxious I felt

the same block. Now, instead of

her and talk about science and

rushing into the Dining Hall to

crew!” In many instances, teachers

grab something between Theology

reported that if their classes

and Geometry, students and

ever ran late into the assigned

faculty were able to video each

lunchtime, there would often be an

other into their own kitchens and

uproar from the class—not because

spend a more relaxed 45-minutes.

they were missing sacred free time,

“Lunch became my favorite part

but because they had overlapping

of the day,” wrote Erin Sudbey ’20

lunch meetings that they previously

in place to maintain the type of

as a rising college freshman!”

normalcy associated with our on-

Students used the lunch period,

(Boston College ’24). “Sometimes

promised to attend.

campus community.

too, to replicate their daily break

I ate with teammates, sometimes I ate with friends, and a few days I

Part of Zooming from home, too,

The typical Wednesday afternoon

in the Dining Hall. And unlike during the typical year, all students

conferenced into Ms. Ruderman’s

and faculty overlapped in having

Zoom room to spend time with

advisory block became a thirtyminute period that began each

PAGE 42.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

allowed students to get to know one another in their family spaces. Just

“Thankfully, my Zoom classes—especially advisory—kept me energized and they made sure I still felt connected regardless of the physical distance. It was a daily reminder that I am still part of the community and was an amazing outlet to express how anxious I felt as a rising college freshman!”

JIWON LEE ’20 (NEW YORK UNIVERSITY ’24)

how meeting one’s parents often

stay connected posed additional

events, even during distance

during May, the last few weeks of

illuminates a deeper understanding

challenges for our international

learning, especially during May’s

the spring are typically dedicated

of friends, pieces of home life that

students, many of whom were

Asian American Heritage Month

to the culmination of semester-

students were eager to share better

facing 10-12 hour time differences.

Celebration.” Led by JiWon,

and season-long work. For those

explained parts of their Canterbury

And for those students who

students across Forms took charge

students in the spring musical,

experiences. In Mr. Omaña’s AP

returned to their home country,

of emailing information on their

Director of Theater Sarah

Spanish course, students used their

many had to brave the uncertainty

respective countries, including

Armstrong hosted a virtual cast

changed surroundings to bolster

of long-distance travel as well

recipes, well-known music, and

party with appearances from a

their Spanish vocabulary and

as inter-country relations. “As

popular culture references. The

range of non-cast member guests.

prepare for the auditory portion

an international student, I felt

event mirrored the typical on-

While it was disappointing not to

of the exam by explaining unique

powerless that I was not able to

campus celebrations in May to

be able to perform Chicago for the

objects in their homes. Mrs.

spend my last high school spring

the best of our students’ abilities.

broader community, cast members

Roberts’ and Mrs. Darrin’s Intro to

semester with my friends and

Notwithstanding the difficulties of

definitely enjoyed the ability to

Digital Media course used random

school community because I had to

distance learning and relationship

celebrate their work together in the

objects in their homes to “toss” to

travel back home halfway around

building from abroad, it was

best way given the circumstances.

each other and challenged other

the world,” continued JiWon

our students’ self-reliance and

classes to do the same, mirroring

’20. “But, with the support from

resiliency that enabled them to

Outside of the daily academic

the social media trend that was

teachers, especially Mr. Dellorco

strengthen their connections.

popular this spring.

and Ms. Ritter and lots of creative

Of course, even with the set

thinking from underform students,

In addition to celebrating Asian

Zoom schedule, the ability to

we were able to host some amazing

American Heritage Month

schedule, students found plenty of time to socialize in new ways. In addition to replicating in-person (CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)

PAGE 43.

MEETING OUR STUDENTS WHERE THEY ARE

STUDENT LIFE

faculty—and English teacher Bob

continued to not only sustain itself

Potter shared his hat collection with

but grow stronger, our students

curious fans. Students reflected

used social media to connect and

that “laughing about Student

find levity through self-made videos

student experiences via the online

Life Instagram brought back our

and shared photos and quotes

platforms, the Student Life Office

daily laughs and conversations

about what they missed from the

and Health Center continued to

with friends in the Center for

hilltop and what it means to be a

offer weekend activities for the

Spirituality, Service & Justice.”

Saint.

Of course, students connected with

To be sure, the Canterbury

one another informally, as they do

community remained united and

during the year. Using Facetime,

the School’s Five Values—Honesty,

Snapchat, countless iMessages,

Respect, Compassion, Spirituality,

Instagram—and perhaps the most

and Self-reliance—continued to

important social media network of

be exemplified daily, along with

Generation Z, TikTok—became

a healthy dose of joy and humor.

a part of the norm instead of an

No matter where they were, our

additional aspect of one’s daily

Saints have continued to earn an

interpersonal interactions. As

education for life.

CONTINUED

community. Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Student Activities EJ Soifersmith—who is advisor to the Student Events Committee and de facto “campus mom”—assumed her role of putting together weekend baking classes, movie nights, and video game battles.

From the student side, Sandy Xu ’21 and Andy Xu ’21 began a Cooking Club, advised by science teacher Sally Ruderman, and hosted live cooking demonstrations for their classmates. The group first made simple fried rice with

Dean of Students Jake Dellorco (top) hosts a weekly “game show” on the Student Life Instagram account called Sibling Rivalry. Here, Abigayle ’21 and Alessandra King ’22 (middle) compete against Jonathon ’20 and Ian Fernandes ’22 to see which older sibling knows their younger sibling best.

the attendees following their instructions over Zoom. The crowd

and gave me a sense of normalcy

attempted brownies during the

throughout the pandemic.”

following meeting—homemade, of course, none of that box stuff!

“Throughout such a trying time, it was difficult to stay mentally positive. But the contribution from the SEC [Canterbury Student Events Committee] and the support groups (like the Health Center Wellness Checks and meditation) the School offered helped me greatly,” noted Sean Quaye ’21, current member of the Sixth Form Council. “I will most remember the fun and interactive weekend activities put together by the SEC that reconnected my friends and me outside the digital classroom

PAGE 44.

Spearheaded by Dean of Students Jake Dellorco, English teacher and Third Form Council Advisor Maddie Lord, and Spanish teacher Meredith Berry-Toon also created an Instagram account specifically for Canterbury students. Videos on the account ranged from faculty Q&As to Form Council introductory videos, and from home tours to a weekly “Sibling Rivalry Game Show,” but one

this extraordinary community

As this extraordinary community continued to not only sustain itself but grow stronger, our students used social media to connect… through self-made videos and shared photos and quotes about what they missed… and what it means to be a Saint.

constant was the tremendous laughs that each post brought.

Many throwback photos were shared—both of students and

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

SAINTS IN ACTION

Several Saints volunteered throughout the pandemic to help their local communities Yijie Wang ’23 and Kai Xu ’21 delivered 3,600 masks on behalf of the Canterbury Chinese Association to campus to be donated to the local New Milford Community. Photo taken prior to students leaving campus for March Break. and Fishes Hospitality House, Camella’s

Danbury Food Bank and to Camella’s

Services Food Bank, and their mission is

that ensures no child goes without food.

Cupboard, and the New Milford Social

to continue to make them for charities and other groups such as daycare

centers, farms, non-profits or small Lorelai Lee Swanek ’21 and her family spent their time at home learning how to sew in order to make and donate masks to their community.

O

ur Saints inspire us every day, but the way many

of them stepped up for

their communities during

a particularly challenging time just

underscores what a truly wonderful

group of young people we have here.

This spring, three of our students

medical offices in New Milford. Lorelai and her family were featured in the

New Milford Spectrum for their efforts

personal service with progress toward

where Lorelai shared, “I just wanted to

Connectedness, Compassion, Curiosity,

I have been sewing more, it has been

Ambassador Award is the highest level

to keep my hands busy.”

(Erin also won the Ambassador Award

started “Operation Toothbrush” to

the UNA’s Global Goals and its values of

do something to help people, but as

Integrity, Respect, and Spirituality. The

really fun and good to have something

of award presented by the organization.

Jacob Gee ’22 and his brother Ryder

in 2019 for her hours of service.)

collect and distribute toothbrushes,

received recognition from the United

Lorelai Lee Swanek ’21 and her family

toothpaste, and other personal hygiene

InnerView for their community service

they were isolating at home and have

pandemic. The family collected over

Milford, CT, community. They have

the New Milford and Gaylordsville, CT,

Nations Association of the USA and

contributions. Kayla Jendras ’20 and

Margaret Ondrey ’21 each earned an Ambassador Award for completing

100 hours of service across at least

12 activities this school year, and Erin Sudbey ’20 earned a Merit Award for

completing 20 hours of service across at least four activities this school year.

The platform InnerView is designed

for college and high school students

taught themselves how to sew while

products to those in need during the

been making masks for the New

100 toiletry items from members of

donated the masks to the Danbury

communities and donated them to the

Cupboard, a New Milford organization Several students also combined

efforts to donate masks and personal protective equipment to the Town of

New Milford. Through the Canterbury Chinese Association, Yijie Wang ’23,

Kai Xu ’21, and Zhe Ji ’23 raised funds

and handled all the logistics to donate 3,600 masks, which were accepted

by New Milford’s Mayor Pete Bass.

Paul Hu ’23 and his family, Shannon

Gao ’20, and Jaqueline Yang ’22 also

generously donated over 300 masks to the New Milford community. Because

of these gifts, the Town of New Milford was able to distribute PPE to local first responders, long-term care facilities, and New Milford Hospital.

Well done, Saints!

Federal Correctional Institution, Loaves

Margaret Ondrey ’21 (pictured) and Erin Sudbey ’20 led the Canterbury Blood Drive team in March, prior to Spring Break. Margaret had not yet turned 18 so she could not give blood at the drive, but as soon as she was able to...she showed up and donated!

to highlight their service activities.

The awards process seeks to connect

PAGE 45.

Our Roadmap for

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, and INCLUSION IT

was a tumultuous summer, following a daunting spring.

do. It is our moral responsibility to work toward human rights, to seek

As the COVID-19 pandemic spread throughout the

justice, and to model service to others. That is clear and unequivocal.”

globe, a social and emotional upheaval erupted across the United States, and a surge of activism ensued calling for racial

“But what else,” Rachel expanded. “Core to our work on this hilltop

justice.

is the concept of meeting students where they are. When it comes to being inclusive and anti-racist, our students may need different things

For many, these simultaneous crises served as a powerful catalyst.

and need them for different reasons, and those needs will change as

They generated a growth mindset and a new determination to

they transition from high school, to college, to their lives as productive

create meaningful change in our society. Canterbury alumni,

citizens. Some of our students need us to understand how race has

students, parents, faculty, and staff are no exception to this

affected their lives, their choices, their opportunities, and how it

renewed desire to build a truly diverse, equitable and inclusive

impacts their experience at Canterbury. Some of our students need us

community—both on and off our hilltop.

to help them gain a deeper, more personal understanding of race and racism because they simply have not been challenged to do so. We

“Beyond the medical and public health safety tied to

must meet them where they are so we can move forward together.”

COVID-19, we must also focus on psychological safety, which plays an integral role in our efforts to be an inclusive community,” said Head of School Rachel Stone in her opening remarks to faculty and staff at the start of the 202021 school year. She continued: “As our world—and our School— reacted to news of racism, inequity, anger, and sadness, we

“It will be the work done by every member of our community in a consistent manner and with shared language that will have the greatest impact. While we are proud of all that has already been accomplished, we know

spent the summer beginning

that our work must continue in earnest and must stay

to take a hard look at just how

firmly rooted in ensuring that every student experiences

diverse, inclusive, equitable, and anti-racist Canterbury is…. Why?

an inclusive and transformative Canterbury education.”

To be sure, it is the right thing to

PAGE 46.

– RACHEL STONE

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

Summer 2020 Arriving at a critical inflection point this summer, the Board of Trustees and the School leadership team reaffirmed Canterbury’s priority commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

While many initiatives have been implemented in recent years, the renewed charge is to discover effective ways to learn, teach, and engage in dialogue with every member of our community.

Rachel added: “It will be the work done by every member of our community in a consistent manner and with shared language that will have the greatest impact. While we are proud of all that has already been accomplished, we know that our work must continue in earnest and must stay firmly rooted in ensuring that every student experiences an inclusive and transformative Canterbury education.”

To facilitate discussion this summer during anti-racism

forums, faculty and students read, watched, listened to,

and discussed relevant articles, essays, books, podcasts, studies, movies, and interviews. A small sampling of those include:

White Fragility

BY ROBIN DIANGELO

“Reflections from a Token Black Friend”

BY RAMESH A. NAGARAJA

As a first, small step toward helping our students process the questions and uncertainty magnified by George Floyd’s killing and the unrest that followed, faculty and students engaged in anti-

“Identifying and Responding to Microaggressions”

BY JODY GRAY

provided a virtual meeting place for listening, conversation, and a

Tell Me Who You Are: Sharing Our Stories of Race, Culture, & Identity

greater understanding of race and racism in our country.

BY WINONA GUO AND PRIYA VULCHI

racism forums throughout the summer. The bi-weekly discussions

This summer also brought the creation of a Community DEI Committee that includes trustees, alumni, students, faculty, and staff. Specifically, the group is composed of various intersecting roles of our community to ensure broad representation and to

“Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man”

BY EMMANUEL ACHO

Teaching Community: A Pedagogy of Hope

sustain the work and function of this Committee for many years to

BY BELL HOOKS

come. Most significantly, the call for student volunteers to join the

“How to Be an Antiracist Educator”

group was met with an extraordinary response, with nine students stepping forward with personal stories and motivations, each one more compelling than the next.

BY DENA SIMMONS

“Intersectionality Matters!” podcast HOSTED BY KIMBERLÉ CRENSHAW

“For any committee like this to be effective, everyone involved must feel empowered to speak freely; we must create a safe environment for the free interchange of ideas, and these ideas must be respected, debated and heard,” said Bob Steers ʼ71, President of the Board of Trustees and member of the newly formed Community DEI Committee. He continued: “We will address myriad topics relating

“White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack”

BY PEGGY MCINTOSH

“Seeing White” podcast

BY SCENE ON RADIO

to DEI and will share a great responsibility and accountability to one another and to Canterbury. I know I will learn a lot from my fellow Committee members, and the Board is committed to supporting the key initiatives that will come from our work.”

(CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)

PAGE 47.

COMPOSITION OF COMMUNITY DEI COMMITTEE

Our Roadmap for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion CONTINUED

• AHANA Faculty Advisor • Chief Advancement Officer • Dean of Faculty • Dean of Students • Director of the Center for Spirituality, Service & Justice • Director of Curriculum • Director of Dining Services • Founder of Saints on the Hill and founding member of AHANA

The Committee’s first charge will be to conduct

commitment to ensuring that belonging and

a comprehensive needs assessment, which will

acceptance became fundamental to who we are

inform its work in crafting an action plan and

as a school.

long-term goals reflective of Canterbury’s enduring commitment to social justice and to a

Empowered by an affirming environment,

diverse and inclusive school community. Most

students were inspired to bring greater awareness

of all, the Committee will harness our collective

to and appreciation for the varied backgrounds

desire to do better, be better, and assure that this

and identities of their fellow Saints. Supported

powerful movement does not become a passing

by an administration and faculty that honored

one on our hilltop.

their passions and leadership, students founded affinity groups such as AHANA (students of

In August, Canterbury faculty immersed in

African, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American

• Head of School

five days of in-service meetings, led by DEI

descent), the Gender-Sexuality Alliance (GSA),

• Member of the Board of Trustees

consultant Margenett Moore-Roberts (see page

and Canterbury’s Diversity and Inclusion Club

49) and twelve faculty co-facilitators who were

(CDIC). These student-led groups have since

trained to carry this critical work forward.

become an intrinsic part of campus life and are

Faculty members met daily in small groups

providing a space for our students to own and

during the opening meetings and will continue

speak their truth. (See article on page 33.)

• Member of the Society of Alumni Executive Committee • President of the Board of Trustees

to do so in the year to come. Likewise, nearly 50 student leaders—Sacristans, Sixth Form

Similarly, in 2016 and through the aspirations

Council members, Boarding and Day Student

of Sherley Arias-Pimentel ’19, then a Fourth

Proctors, Lead Ambassadors, International

Form student (and a galvanizing force!), Saints

A PARTIAL LIST OF COURSE OFFERINGS THAT DEMONSTRATE CURRICULUM INCLUSION AT CANTERBURY

Student Ambassadors, and Interfaith Council

on the Hill was born. The program began as a

members—were trained in these very same

way for community members to reveal aspects

principles of diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

of themselves, celebrate their stories, and,

These imperatives are being threaded throughout

in highlighting differences, find similarities

conversations with all of our students during

while adding to the diversity of thought and

• Honors Race Theory

dedicated Saturday programming this year, for it

experience at Canterbury. It has now extended

is our collective responsibility to help our students

into its fourth year as a revered tradition during

develop informed opinions as part of their

Thursday School Meeting.

• American Voices • Syracuse University Project Advance: Gender and Literary Studies • Honors History of Latin American • Modern Middle East • AP Spanish Literature and Culture • Human Relations • Service Learning and Social Justice • World Religions

PAGE 48.

growth in values, character, civil discourse, and service to others. We are committed to doing so.

The Center for Spirituality, Service, and Justice (CSSJ) took form in 2017, centralizing the

Foundational Work When Rachel Stone was appointed Canterbury’s sixth Head of School in 2016, one of her first initiatives was strengthening and sustaining a student-centered culture—a culture that included being mindful of and supporting the myriad perspectives and cultures that exist in the Canterbury community. This intentional effort was aimed at placing the student experience at the center of the School’s work, including a

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

School’s programming that fosters students’ spiritual growth and discovery, social justice and responsibility, and human rights advocacy, all with a keen focus on developing students’ moral and servant leadership. Among many other programs and activities held throughout the year, the CSSJ hosts Canterbury’s annual Social Justice Week, anchored by the School’s observation of Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and legacy and the American civil rights movement.

Since 2019 and with a commitment going forward, faculty and students have attended the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) annual People of Color Conference as well as the Student Diversity and Leadership Conference at both the state and national levels. Additionally, Canterbury has reviewed and updated its curricula in recent years to not only enrich the challenge and rigor of its academic program but to provide a broader range of historical and cultural experiences and to help students learn to appreciate different perspectives and embrace diversity in a socially responsible way. Finally, beginning in 2019, the School has administered climate surveys and Sixth Form exit interviews to measure student perceptions around community, belonging, and inclusion.

The Path Forward As a community, we do an excellent job of weaving our Five Values of Honesty, Respect, Compassion, Self-Reliance, and Spirituality into everything we do. Now, and perhaps more important than ever, we must embrace a true application of how we live these values. In other words, the reason why we must grow even more committed to our diversity, equity, and inclusion work is that helping students to become moral leaders in a complex, secular world starts with an inclusive, anti-racist, self-aware mindset.

While Canterbury’s DEI work has been underway for several years, the experiences of our students—past, present, and future—provide the most compelling catalyst for our path forward. “As educators, we need to dedicate ourselves to creating the type of culture and environment within our school that we hope to see represented outside our campus,” said Rachel. “If we can do that well here and create safe spaces for students to feel welcomed and appreciated for who they are, and provide them with the opportunity to flourish, to take risks and grow as human beings, then they can take those experiences they learn here and go do the same in the communities they enter after their time at Canterbury. If we can establish this ethos in our students now, we can work to have a positive impact on the world, but it has to be front and center, and we have to do it right.”

MARGENETT MOORE-ROBERTS Margenett Moore-Roberts is Chief Inclusion & Diversity Officer at Constituency Management Group or CMG, a division of Interpublic Group. In her role, Margenett collaborates with executive leaders to develop and activate business practices that deliver on the inclusion imperative and enhance business through the adoption of broader perspectives. She joined CMG in 2018 after serving as Global Head of Inclusive Diversity at Yahoo.

Margenett Moore-Roberts pioneered Yahoo’s Office of Inclusive Diversity and served as its first Global Head of Diversity & Inclusion, successfully elevating inclusion and diversity as mission-critical initiatives for the web services giant. She is an accomplished executive with a proven track record for developing business-focused DEI strategies and facilitating transformation through the lens of inclusion, equity, and diversity.

As an Inclusion and Diversity thought-leader, Margenett drove the development of Yahoo’s corporate point-of-view on inclusion. She was the leading voice in shaping corporate communications around challenging topics like the North Carolina “Bathroom Bill” (also known as House Bill 2), the 2017 Travel Ban, police brutality and Black Lives Matters, and pay equity. Representing the company at national events, including the White House Conference on Inclusive STEM Education, the Watermark Conference for Women, Big Omaha, Grace Hopper, the National Diversity Council, AdColor, and more. Her point of view was featured in digital publications, including TechCrunch, the Huffington Post, BBC Worldwide (London), and Tech Diversity Magazine.

Margenett’s honors include being recognized as a Top 50 Multicultural Leader in Tech (California Diversity Council), a 2017 MAKERS@ Award recipient, and winner of Marissa Mayer’s CEO Excellence Award.

Margenett has consistently delivered strong business results throughout her career. At Yahoo, she created and led the growth of the company’s first video advertising network, generating more than $100 Million in revenue over 3.5 years.

PAGE 49.

ADVANCEMENT

Changing the Narrative Duchess Harris, J.D., Ph.D. ’87 writes the untold stories of Black Americans and is making sure their voices are heard

M

iriam “Duchess” Harris, J.D., Ph.D. ’87 is

of the Future” by Ebony Magazine. She did

Duchess is a scholar of Contemporary African

an academic, author, and legal scholar

a Rockefeller postdoctoral fellowship at the

American History and Political Theory. Her

whose books on race and Black feminism

Womanist Studies Consortium at the University

academic books include, Racially Writing the Republic:

have received widespread acclaim. A die-hard

of Georgia, GA. She became the first Chair

Racists, Race Rebels, and Transformations of American

Canterbury student, Duchess was a Sacristan,

of the American Studies Department in 2003

Identity, (2009), Black Feminist Politics from Kennedy

dorm proctor, Editor for the Cantuarian and the

and was granted tenure in 2004. In 2007 she

to Trump (2018), and Black Girl Magic Beyond the

Tabard, Editor-in-Chief of the Carillon, stage

decided that attending law school would allow

Hashtag: Twenty-First Century Acts of Self-Definition

manager in the theater, President of the Debate

her to expand the scope of her scholarship even

(2019). She is also the proud curator of the

Club, and served in student government. At

further.

Duchess Harris Collection, which has 115 books

her graduation, she was presented the Philip H.

In 2008, she was the only law student in the

written for 4-12th graders.

country chosen to be an Associate Editor for

In a conversation with Macalester College,

Brodie Award for exceptional achievements and all-around service to the School.

Litigation News, the American Bar Association

Duchess mentioned that after Michael Brown

Following Canterbury, Duchess went on to

Section’s quarterly flagship publication. The

was killed in Ferguson, Missouri in 2014, she

become a Mellon Mays Fellow at the University

following year, she won a $96,000 fellowship

was struck with a realization when she returned

of Pennsylvania, PA. There, she was mentored

from the Bush Leadership Program, which

to the classroom. “I found out that none of my

by Dr. Mary Frances Berry and graduated with

encourages their recipients to create positive

students had had any experience talking about

a degree in American History. In 1990, she was

change in their communities. In 2010, she

contemporary race relations in high school,” she

elected student body president, which made

became the first Editor-in-Chief of Law Raza

said. “Students sometimes have a unit on slavery,

her the first Black woman to serve in this role

Journal, an interactive on-line race and law

but they don’t get the skill set to talk about race

at an Ivy League institution. She graduated in

journal.

relations—and it’s an important skill set to have.”

1991 with a degree in American History. Six

Duchess earned a Juris Doctorate in January

She wrote the 115 books in her collection in just

years later, she earned a Ph.D. in American

2011 and has an expertise in Civil Rights Law.

five years to remedy that.

In 2015, The Minnesota Association of Black

A keen intellect and desire to help transform the

Lawyers chose her to receive “The Profiles in

world seem to run in her genes—her maternal

Courage Award.” In 2019 she received the

grandmother, Miriam Daniel Mann, was a

Presidential Award from the Association of

mathematician at NASA and one of the “human

Black Women in Higher Education. She is

computers” responsible for solving complex

In 1998, Duchess joined the faculty at

currently a member of Governor Tim Walz’s

equations that landed the United States on the

Macalester College, MN. That same year she

Board of Public Defense.

Moon. Duchess has been a member of Mensa

Studies from the University of Minnesota, MN, where her dissertation was nominated for the Henry Gabriel Prize. While in graduate school, she worked for the late U.S. Senator Paul D. Wellstone.

was named one of “Thirty Young Leaders

since 1983 and has been the recipient of over 25 awards for her professional achievements.

PAGE 50.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

but a civil rights activist who desegregated

You’ve taught 21 different courses spanning American Studies, Political Science, Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies, History, and Legal Studies. What has been your favorite course to teach and why?

NASA, you have a pretty high standard.

I have taught a course called “Black Public

The following is a compilation of responses

next day. New signs went up on the bathroom

from Duchess to questions posed by Canterbury

door, ‘colored girls’.”

for this publication, and by Macalester College’s

Kevin Costner’s character did not tear down

Alumni Club President Justin Brandon during a webinar Q&A in June 2020.

You’ve written over one hundred books on race for children and young adults.

What inspired you to do this work?

Although I received a great education at Canterbury, there weren’t materials in the 1980s that reflected my family’s historical narrative. I wrote the book that I wish I could have read. Now young people can learn about the 1921 Tulsa Oklahoma Race Riot.

How do you have these conversations with kids?

Regardless of a child’s age, a good way to open up a dialogue with a child is to ask: What do you see? What do you know? I had my first experience as a parent with this with George Floyd, because when Philando Castile happened, my kids weren’t old enough for technology. When George Floyd happened, I paused and said, “Okay, how am I going to approach this?”

I’ll admit, I was a day late and a dollar short. When I approached my 13-year old, he said, “I saw the video.” I couldn’t believe that he watched the video and told him how concerned I was, and he said, “Mom, 20 million people have seen it on Instagram—why wouldn’t I watch it?” That’s part of it now: you can run but you can’t hide.

Your grandmother, Miriam Daniel Mann, was a mathematician for NASA in the 1960s—a time when women and people of color were largely excluded from the field. How did her experience and accomplishments impact or influence you?

the sign. My grandmother did. When your grandmother is not only a mathematical genius

Your CV states that you “started the path towards scholarship and educational excellence while attending Canterbury.”

How did Canterbury prepare you for success in higher education and beyond?

I learned discipline at Canterbury. Study hall six nights a week and Saturday classes prepared me for the Ivy League. I’m grateful that Mrs. Mandler introduced me to Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God and Toni

Intellectuals” since 1997. The question that I ask is, “Who decides when a Black person is an intellectual? Is their public actually Black, or is their public mainstream America? What does it mean that Black people are not considered thinkers until White people say they are?

Students are challenged by these questions, but that’s what makes it fun. We also talk about the range of political thought within the African American community—it’s not a monolith.

It’s always had conservatives. There’s room

Morrison’s The Bluest Eye.

for variety in Blackness in the way that there

How would you describe yourself in high school?

should be free thought.

I think this would be a great question to ask Mr.

Duchess resides in Vadnais Heights, MN, with

Kevin Lane Dearinger, who lives in Kentucky

her husband, Dr. Jon. V. Thomas, their three

now. He was my teacher.

children, Austin, Avi, and Zach; a British

“Brava, Duchess, an astonishing person. At

Shorthair cat named Skittles, a stray cat named

should be room for variety in anything. There

Canterbury, Duchess was a dedicated thinker

Tommie, and a Standard Poodle named Mocha.

and learner. She was part of everything

Duchess’ upcoming book, Justice for George

positive, always seeking to give her best effort

Floyd, explores race relations further and will

and to do what was right and what was good.

be released in January 2021. “It’s written for

She was a natural leader and a strong moral

fourth- through eighth-graders, but I believe

force, with an informed and mature voice. As

many adults will benefit from it as well,”

now, she possessed a ferocious integrity. I was

Duchess says. Her books, essays, articles, and

aware of some of the narrowness that tried

interviews can be found at duchessharris.com.

to obstruct her progress. I grew angry and frustrated, but Duchess just stepped up and stepped over the ugliness. I admired her, loved her greatness, and felt grateful to witness such strength of character. And I learned from her.

I still do. The best part of being a teacher was always the opportunity

The Hidden Figures movie was inaccurate. In

of finding greatness in the human

2011 my mother was interviewed by Smithsonian

soul. Thank you, Duchess Harris!”

Magazine. She stated that her mother “would

— Kevin Lane Dearinger

relate stories about the ‘colored’ sign on a table in the back of the cafeteria. She brought the first one home, but there was a replacement the Duchess’ photo from the 1987 Cantuarian.

PAGE 51.

ADVANCEMENT

Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation head Nichol Whiteman ’94 at Darby Park in Inglewood in 2017. (©Los Angeles Dodgers, LLC 2017)

Top of Her Game DODGERS FOUNDATION CEO NICHOL WHITEMAN ’94 IS A LEADER IN IMPROVING THE LIVES OF OTHERS

N

ichol (McKenzie)

organizations and/or a chosen

economics, Nichol is currently

Angeles by administering

person you want leading

characterized by creativity,

of the Los Angeles Dodgers

and communities at large

Whiteman ’94 is the

your team. As the 2019

recipient of the Canterbury School Outstanding Young Alumni Award—an honor which recognizes an

alumnus/a who graduated within the last twenty-five

years, has made significant contributions to civic

PAGE 52.

profession, whose life is

curiosity and community

service, and who reflects the highest ideals of Canterbury School—Nichol exemplifies relentless drive towards

enhancing and enriching the lives of others.

A graduate of Spelman

College, GA, with a degree in

the Chief Executive Officer Foundation (LADF) where

she leads the team’s official charity—an award-winning

leader in sports-based youth development. The LADF

works to significantly impact underserved youth in some of the most challenged neighborhoods of Los

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

direct programs serving youth and providing grants to local nonprofit organizations.

Under Nichol’s leadership,

LADF launched Dodgers RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner

Cities), a youth development

program serving over 10,000 youth today. As part of its commitment to Southern

50th Dodgers Dreamfield,

Nichol was recently featured in an article in the Los Angeles Times, which is excerpted here:

increased fundraising by

Whiteman was hired in September 2013 to

That experience informs her work with

spending time working in investment banking,

the foundation serves. She knows the impact

California communities, the Foundation completed its

created a benefit gala, and 1,000% with Nichol at the helm.

Nichol has been recognized throughout the industry for

her exceptional contributions, having earned awards from organizations such as the

Sports Business Journal, the Anti-Defamation League,

oversee the organization’s charity arm after publishing, education, and for the Jackie

Robinson Foundation. She faced an uphill battle …

… Only two full-time staff members were on

the payroll when Whiteman hopped aboard.

They were starting from scratch.

Ebony Magazine, The

The foundation now employs 10 full-time

and The Wave, to name a

nonprofit organizations with $21 million

the Executive Leadership

built 51 Dodgers Dreamfields, and has

Heart Association’s Go

populations during the coronavirus pandemic.

serves on the Women’s

sports humanitarian team of the year for the

a member of Women in

At the top stands Whiteman, one of the few

communities. She sees herself in the people it can have on them because she’s been on

the receiving end; she won a Jackie Robinson Foundation scholarship, which she used to

attend Spelman College, a historically Black

women’s college in Atlanta. She was the first college graduate in her family.

“I find myself to be an example of the potential possibilities,” Whiteman said, “and outcomes

Pink Tea Rose Foundation,

staff members. It supports more than 100

few. A former member of

in investments over the last five years, has

Team for the American

provided meals and donations to vulnerable

She knows those communities are always

Red Campaign, she also

Last month, the Dodgers were named ESPN’s

exacerbated since the pandemic rocked

Leadership Council and is

foundation’s work.

Sports and Entertainment

and LA Community Leaders.

Nichol holds positions on

the advisory and regional

boards of Covington Capital Management, A Better

Black women holding a prominent role across Major League Baseball.

“She is a workforce, that’s what she is,”

Dodgers President Stan Kasten said. “She is a force. She really does some job.” …

Chance, Inc., New Teacher

… As social unrest spread through the

the Los Angeles County

the mainstream, Whiteman has engaged in

Positive Results Corporation.

for the first time. She has become more than a

board of the Los Angeles

“There’s so much mis-education,” Whiteman

Center, Davinci Schools,

country and racism took center stage in

Office of Education, and the

conversations on race with people around her

Additionally, she sits on the

successful foundation’s director.

chapter of Positive Coaching Alliance.

said. “There are so many folks who I would

say don’t know but haven’t taken the time to

With a firm belief that each

know. And I have found that I have had to use

positively impact a life, Nichol

educate people on my experience.”

person has the power to

my voice immensely throughout my career to

continues to inspire as she

“As a Black woman who has two sons, a

fights for young people to realize their dreams. We

couldn’t be more proud to call her a Saint.

Black husband, a Black father, two Black

of folks that come out of communities of

color who are given a chance and given an opportunity and honestly given access.”

vulnerable and the hardships have only been society. To continue the work, the foundation

has shifted to virtual programming and drivethru events.

And she knows representation matters and

that Black communities in Southern California

were ecstatic to see the Dodgers acquire Betts and David Price in February.

“We have to be realistic that our young people look up to, adore, and fan out when players

look like them, when players sound like them,

when players feel like them, and when players have shared experiences,” Whiteman said.

“And I think it’s just a thrill for the community.”

She knows that because she’s been thrust

into situations where nobody looks like her or shares her experiences. Sometimes, she

acknowledges, it feels like pressure. But the work continues.

“The responsibility is always there,” Whiteman said. “It doesn’t go away.”

brothers, I have shared a lot of stories of their

Castillo, J. (2020). ‘Dodgers Foundation CEO Nichol

couple of weeks,” Whiteman said. “I feel like

Los Angeles Times, July 7, 2020.

experiences, coupled with mine, over the last

Whiteman provides a strong voice for Black women’,

it’s started a lot of conversations in a lot of rooms.”

PAGE 53.

ADVANCEMENT

Frontline Saints Canterbury alumni have been integral forces in the daily battle against COVID-19

M

any Canterbury alumni have been

emergency interventions to patients. “Most

It was exactly what I used to get from Misi, and

drawn to the field of healthcare;

days it feels like we are fighting death itself

Chep (before she was Mrs. Roberts), and Mr.

some were inspired to take on

while standing on slippery ground,” she said.

Richardson.” Olivia continued, “Tough love

their profession by family members, some

“It is hard work, mentally, emotionally, and

is what got me through Canterbury and that is

by Canterbury mentors, others by their own

physically, for both the staff and the patients.”

what I take pride in every day as an Emergency

experiences in a hospital setting. Through

Olivia ’04 wholeheartedly credits Canterbury

nurse: being there on someone’s worst day

all the difficult and dark times they have experienced, particularly during the height of this pandemic, they have remained committed to their work and fueled by a desire to help others in any way they can.

Olivia (Nuzzo) Smoak, B.S.N., R.N., C.E.N. ’04 is a

Assistant Athletic Director and Athletic Trainer Misi Babington and her Intro to Anatomy and Physiology course for the decision to move into healthcare. She originally wanted to become a Physical Therapist but said it was a nurse she met while shadowing a PT that

Lieutenant in the Nurse Corps of the United

made her change her mind. “Everyone in the

States Navy and member of a 44-person Navy

room could feel her presence and deferred to

Acute Care Team which has integrated into

her expertise—she was tough about the love

a civilian facility in the Rio Grande Valley in

she gave and you could tell that she had been

Texas. In conjunction with members of the

giving that tough love for decades. I was sold.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), she works on a code team to provide

“Most days it feels like we are fighting death itself while standing on slippery ground…”

— OLIVIA (NUZZO) SMOAK, B.S.N., R.N., C.E.N. ’04 (PICTURED)

PAGE 54.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

and getting them through it. Four years ago, I decided that I wanted to take my passion and bring it to the military. I joined the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps and am so fortunate to care for and lead this population that takes care of us on so many levels.” Olivia noted that while she might not be working in a combat zone, there are many parallels on the frontlines of fighting COVID-19.

Pictured on this page: Mike Diaz, M.D. ’08 and Alexandra (Hurtado) Dammen ’07

“There were a few weeks where every single patient I admitted to the hospital died. As a physician, this rocked me to my core and at times I felt helpless.” — MIKE DIAZ, M.D. ’08

Mike Diaz, M.D. ’08 echoed that sentiment,

died. As a physician, this rocked me to my

their illness was manageable and they recovered

saying, “a day in the height of the pandemic

core and at times I felt helpless.” Mike isolated

without severe complications. Alexandra was

felt like walking into a warzone.” Mike is a

himself from friends and family for months to

present at the start of the outbreak in Seattle and

fourth-year resident in Emergency Medicine

help ensure that his loved ones would not get

its surrounding areas in March and April when

at NYU Langone Health/Bellevue Hospital

sick. Despite the enormous challenges, Mike

even less was known about the virus. She shared

Center in New York City. He found his passion

still knows he is in the right profession. “All that

that she was thankful for the other healthcare

for healthcare while working on an ambulance

being said, I know deep down that this is my

workers in her unit, as they helped each other

as an EMT during his time at Fordham

calling and I am beyond honored to have been

get through a time of fear and uncertainty.

University, NY, and credits his parents (who are

able to provide service to my community in

“In my short time working in this emergency

both physicians) as well as Canterbury’s own

their time of need.”

department, COVID-19 has made my group

Misi Babington for supporting his passion to

Many healthcare workers have not been lucky

feel more like a family. We care and support one

(Hurtado) Dammen ’07, a Physician Assistant in

my career choice as a Physician Assistant in

help others. He shared that one of his biggest fears throughout the pandemic has been falling ill himself: “I was constantly surrounded by death, and knew that if I were to catch this disease, I could very well meet the same fate of my patients. There were a few weeks where every single patient I admitted to the hospital

enough to evade illness, including Alexandra

another. Before COVID-19, I was excited about

Emergency Medicine at Valley Medical Center

Emergency Medicine; during COVID-19, I feel

of the University of Washington in Seattle, WA. Alexandra and her husband both tested positive for the virus, though fortunately the course of

inspired by the healthcare workers who surround me and proud of the profession I chose.”

(CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)

PAGE 55.

“Even with all the risk of having the virus in our facility, we came to work day after day because we knew lives depended on it.”

— KEESHIA LAUS ’10

Pictured on this page: Keeshia Laus ’10 and Nona (Dennis) Bluestein ’86

Frontline Saints (CONTINUED)

With hospitals inundated with patients,

days, weekends, and with a shortage of staff

were going to pray for her loved one but instead

frontline workers have been putting in extended

after so many contracted the virus while caring

she led a prayer for me and my team. She

hours through the pandemic, bringing them

for our elderly residents.” Keeshia and her

prayed that we would be strong. I knew then, I

even closer to their coworkers as they share

team became the main line of communication

was where I was for a reason.” Nona went on

the high and lows of their profession, and

between patients and their families, striving

to say that the woman’s generous gift of prayer

often spending would-be celebratory moments

to deliver hope while still acknowledging

helped her through the toughest times. “Many,

together. Keeshia Laus ’10 is an Assistant

the uncertainty of the virus. “It has stoked

many times during the darkest days to come, I

Director of Social Work at Upper East Side

my passion for social work and healthcare. I

reflected on her thoughtful prayers. She gave

Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in New

feel very proud of how my colleagues and I

me hope and strength to carry on through a

York, NY. Due to the pandemic, she had to

responded to our patients and families amid the

situation that often seemed impossible and, at

postpone her wedding to fellow Saint, Joseph

pandemic,” Keeshia avered. “We are essential

times, even inhumane.”

Cimaglia ’10, and when her coworkers found

workers along with so many others that we

out, they surprised her with a bridal shower

once considered dispensable. Even with all

Nona ’86 said that her position as a leader in

at work. “For everyone to take the time to

the risk of having the virus in our facility, we

celebrate during a pandemic meant so much to

came to work day after day because we knew

me,” she said.

lives depended on it. The heightened sense of

Keeshia ’10 initially thought she wanted to

humanity helped us get through it.”

become a doctor, but after a short paralegal

Nona (Dennis) Bluestein ’86 was also working

career at a major law firm in New York City,

in a long-term care facility in New York at

and allowing them to shine. Their weaknesses

she realized she was passionate about social

the start of the COVID-19 outbreak. As the

are your weaknesses. Their collective strength is

work and went on to obtain her masters

Consultant Director of Nursing, she had to

your strength. You just have to be brave enough

from Columbia University, NY. She has been

contact the families of residents who had been

to keep getting up when you think you cannot

working at a skilled nursing facility since 2017,

infected and share the difficult news. She said

anymore because you do it for those who

and when the virus made its way to New York

that the first family member she spoke with

continue to stand up for you.”

City, the elder populations Keeshia works with

asked if she could pray with her. “I thought we

were hit especially hard. “Our staff worked long PAGE 56.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

her facility during a time when everyone was looking for answers made her rethink what ‘leadership’ really means. “It is not about being the smartest or the best at anything; it is building a team of like-minded people, gathering them together for a common cause,

Rich Straub ’10 is hoping to lead changes in

tools I needed to enter this profession in the

the healthcare field by expanding services to

first place, “ Mike ’08 said. “Dedication to

patients within their homes. “Although the

community, discipline, and perseverance are all

pandemic created despair, it is clear there is

attributes I started to form on my time on the

a great opportunity to change the current

hill. Without those, I would not be effective in

healthcare delivery system and potentially shift

my career.” Alexandra ’07 said that her time at

care from hospitals to homes. I look forward

Canterbury gave her the confidence to pursue

to being at the forefront of these changes and

her chosen profession: “Canterbury taught

enhancing population health.” After graduating

me that I can handle more than I gave myself

from Fairfield University, CT, with a degree in

credit for. It was one of the first times I believed

political science, Rich completed a two-year

perhaps I could enter a career in medicine.”

paramedic program and joined Empress EMS,

When asked if there was anything Olivia ’10

which covers a large geographic area including

would tell her high school self, she replied, “If I

Westchester County and New York City. He

could go back, I would tell myself three things:

noted that the experience was very humbling

1) Get comfortable being uncomfortable. 2)

as it allowed him to help diverse populations

Do not rely on motivation, rely on discipline.

of patients in underserved communities. As

3) Learn to make friends wherever you go.

his role expanded at Empress, he became an

Canterbury taught me all of those things.

operations supervisor, overseeing approximately

Every time I was challenged or uncomfortable,

110 ambulances per day. He also starred

I grew from it. I learned that motivation fades,

in FOX’s First Responders Live just before

but the habits you create early on will set you

his move into his current role as Program

up for success. And the friends (coaches and

Coordinator of Empress’ Mobile Integrated Health Programs. The program provides inhome, advanced care for acute patients that would normally be in the ICU or admitted to the hospital.

When asked what drew him to his current position, Rich ’10 said that he always knew he wanted to incorporate his political science knowledge into a healthcare career. “With a strong clinical background from years as a paramedic, I made the move to the administrative side, lobbying for change not only in EMS but in healthcare in general. I always knew, starting with my time as a Saint, that I wanted a fulfilling career that I could leave every day knowing I made a difference in someone’s life.”

“My time at Canterbury laid the foundation for who I am and how I treat my patients. … My spirituality was strengthened at Canterbury, which played a huge part in my mental response to this pandemic…”

— RICH STRAUB ’10 (PICTURED)

me through the height of the pandemic.” For some, the pandemic has given them a shift in perspective about what they value. “I have

These healthcare heroes have certainly made

come to appreciate the little things in life a lot

a difference in the lives of many, even on their

more,” Mike ’08 shared. “We take for granted

toughest days. All of the alumni we spoke to

so many things in life and give importance to

mentioned that the support and love from

so many things that in reality, probably do not

their friends and family have gotten them

matter. I will leave this experience hugging my

through those times. Keeshia ’10 said, “For

family a little tighter, and reconnecting with the

me, the ‘Canterbury experience’ goes far

little things that make me happy.”

beyond my four years on the hilltop. So many

All our alumni also attributed many of the

Canterbury friends and faculty were interested in my story and showing gratitude. Some of my closest friendships were formed there and their continued support was really what got

skills needed as healthcare workers to their Canterbury education. “I think my Canterbury

teachers included) are what get you through the tough times.”

Nona ’86 shared that her Canterbury experience has impacted her through all facets of her life: “I think that in my overall life experience, this crisis included, I carry my Canterbury experience with me. For obvious reasons, Honesty, Respect, Compassion, Spirituality, and Self-reliance are key factors in any successful nursing career. I think that a sense of leadership and service to others was also instilled in me during my four years on the hill.” Rich ’10 noted that his Canterbury experience had a big impact on his relationship with the people he helps. “My time at Canterbury laid the foundation for who I am and how I treat my patients. It taught me life skills that were invaluable throughout this entire process. My spirituality was strengthened at Canterbury, which played a huge part in my mental response to this pandemic, and my time there also created lifelong relationships that became a huge part of my support system throughout.”

We thank these alumni for sharing their stories and for the incredible and essential work they are doing to keep others safe.

experience, in general, provided me with the PAGE 57.

ADVANCEMENT

KATIE (CURTIN) GRILL, PH.D. ’10

Revolutionizing How Students and Schools Approach Mental Health It was while Katie (Curtin) Grill,

Ph.D. ’10 was working in a hospital researching adolescent and young adult behavioral health, and also teaching psychology to undergraduates, that she realized her students and patients had something in common: untreated stress was affecting their health.

As a Behavioral Neuroscientist and Integrative & Behavioral Specialist, Katie saw an opportunity to use technology to support students’ mental health and founded the company Neolth in 2018. Neolth de-escalates stress and health crises by using neuroscience to determine the most effective behavioral care for students. The digital platform offers personalized emotional support and continuous mental health monitoring, reducing the burden of high care demands on high school and university counseling centers.

During the COVID-19 crisis, Katie and her team have helped schools provide care and track student mental health remotely. “During the pandemic, there is an increased need for mental healthcare yet decreased access to services,” Katie said.

“Through combining technology with evidence-based behavioral techniques, Neolth helps students get care when and where they need it. Neolth can even be integrated into school health centers, allowing counselors to track student progress and receive alerts when clinical care is needed.”

Katie shared that since the school closures in March, Neolth has seen

PAGE 58.

increased sign-ups and double the weekly engagement rates from students, underscoring the need for accessible and effective mental health options. “The pandemic has demonstrated the importance of providing mental healthcare virtually, prompting schools to adopt digital programs,” she said.

“Additionally,” Katie continued, “Neolth is launching a nationwide Student Advisory Council in response to heightened student anxiety and social isolation. This will give students an opportunity to collaborate virtually to improve mental health resources in schools.”

Katie has a bachelor’s of science in art therapy from Springfield College, MA, and a master’s in psychology and a Ph.D. in behavioral neuroscience specializing in integrative and behavioral health, both from American University, Washington, DC. She worked clinically in psychiatric care, conducting therapeutic art and mind-body sessions, and is a certified Advanced Care Planning facilitator.

Katie has been a part of numerous research studies, including three Research Project Grants (R01s). She co-founded a mindfulness group in DC for adults with chronic illness and is a Neuroscience Professor at the California Institute for Integral Studies.

and friends struggle for years with untreated stress and even had friends die from overdose. I am on a mission to make sure this does not happen to any other young people. It is why I became interested in mental health and ultimately why I founded Neolth.”

Neolth, was one of ten organizations from around the world selected by the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center as a COVID-19 solution this summer.

As Neolth’s CEO and Co-founder, Katie was featured on the NASDAQ Tower in Times Square this August.

Katie’s passion for this work started when she was growing up, and she felt that mental health was not openly discussed. “I watched family

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

Dr. Katie Grill ’10 appeared on the NASDAQ Tower in Times Square in August for her work to provide mental health resources during COVID-19.

Masks with Meaning George-Ann Gowan, mother of the late Don. K Gowan III, has been making masks to benefit his scholarship fund.

“I started like Forrest Gump

George-Ann has been selling

going out for a run and

her masks and donating the

I’m not going to stop!” said

profits to the scholarship

George-Ann Gowan of her

fund, though the project

new mask-making project. To

didn’t begin as a fundraiser.

date, she estimates that she’s

She started making masks in

made close to 500 and keeps

mid-March for her daughter’s

track by the number of yards

restaurant staff (her daughter,

of elastic she goes through.

Anna, is the owner and chef

George-Ann is the mother of

at Kingsley Tavern in Kent,

the late Don K. Gowan III who passed away from sepsis in 2012. A beloved member of the Canterbury community, Don was an Associate Director of Admissions and the Boys’ Head Basketball Coach at Canterbury from 2010-2012. As Dean of Faculty Wright Danenbarger shared at Don’s memorial service in the Chapel of Our

CT, which is named for the late Don K. Gowan II and Don K. Gowan III, both of whom had the middle name

Don K. Gowan III coached the Boys’ Varsity Basketball team for two years, leading them to the Class B New England Tournament.

Kingsley). A celebrated local artist, George-Ann realized

another painting or drawing

“I have had fun doing this, I

she could put her talents

right now, but somehow

really have. It’s exhausting, but

to good use and help the

making masks to stop germs

it keeps me out of trouble and

community at the same time.

seemed like a fitting way

it really has given me something

“I’m an artist really. Not

to contribute to Donny’s

worthwhile. I feel a tremendous

sure the world really needs

scholarship.” She continued,

obligation to Canterbury to try and build the scholarship up to

Lady, “Don took winning

a meaningful level.”

seriously, but he never lost his

Since March, George-Ann’s

famous sense of humor, and

mask project has generated

he loved the players in a way

approximately $6,000 in

that allowed him to put their

contributions to the Donald K.

experience first [...] I have

Gowan III Scholarship Fund.

never seen a man happier than when the team played well.” The Donald K. Gowan III Scholarship Fund was established in 2012 to provide financial aid to a deserving student of high promise.

George-Ann’s friend helped her create humorous tags for her masks that bring awareness to the Donald K. Gowan III Scholarship Fund.

PAGE 59.

Alumni Weekend Hosted Virtually, Outgoing Society of Alumni President Honored Peter J. Tucker ’78 recognized for extraordinary tenure of service.

M

ore than 120 alumni from milestone graduation years (class years ending in

“Peter took the reins as President of the Society of Alumni when the entity was a mere concept in 2013, and his leadership has been inspiring and instrumental to the organization’s success.”

0 and 5) were hosted at a virtual celebration of Alumni Weekend on Friday evening, June 5, 2020. The traditional annual Alumni Weekend event, which typically spans three days of programming and festivities, was canceled due to the pandemic.

The online event commenced with the Society of Alumni (SOA) Annual Meeting, which opened with a prayer read by recent graduate and former Sacristan Abigail Omaña ’20 and

— MACY STEERS ’04

then formalized the transition in leadership from Peter J. Tucker ’78 to his successors,

formed an Executive Committee and identified

Patricia Rasmussen ’92 echoed Macy’s

strategic goals; re-invented Alumni Weekend

sentiments of thanks and admiration and

and hosted many alumni events; launched the

presented Peter with a gift of two Canterbury-

Canterbury Core, an alumni volunteer and

branded Adirondack Chairs. Head of School

During the Meeting. and with thanks from all

mentoring program; built regional alumni

Rachel Stone then shared her gratitude for

corners of the School community, Peter was

clubs including the successful Canterbury Club

Peter’s leadership. “When I began as Head

recognized for his seven years of service as

of New York; and created award programs to

of School in 2016, I was so fortunate to join a

founding President of the SOA and vision for

recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of

community with strong traditions and programs

alumni engagement at Canterbury. Macy Steers

Canterbury alumni. The SOA is lucky to have

in place to sustain alumni connectivity and

remarked: “Peter took the reins as President

had Peter’s leadership for as long as we did, and

involvement with the School. It was not long

of the Society of Alumni when the entity was

I know I can speak for all Executive Committee

before I came to value the role Peter would play

a mere concept in 2013, and his leadership

members when I say that we will miss him as

in helping me to appreciate the extraordinary

has been inspiring and instrumental to the

President. Peter, thank you for your service,

history and legacy of Canterbury graduates.

organization’s success. Over his watch, the SOA

dedication, and friendship to us all.”

Indeed, his generosity of time, talent, and

Co-presidents Patricia Sordoni Rasmussen ’92 and William “Macy” Steers ’04 (see story on page 60).

PAGE 60.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

experiences have allowed me to be a better steward of our School and continue to inspire lifelong alumni engagement that will benefit Canterbury and all members of our Saints community.”

As the SOA Annual Meeting continued, Rachel discussed the challenges brought by the pandemic this spring and Canterbury’s strength and ability to adapt and excel through unpredictable circumstances. She shared her appreciation for the continued support from the School’s alumni and noted that she looks forward to celebrating in person with the Class of 1970 at next year’s Alumni Weekend.

Alumni attendees were then invited to attend virtual mini-classroom sessions featuring “A Peek into Animal Anatomy” with Biology Teacher Derek Richardson, and “Meditation and Mindfulness” with Director of Counseling

1970

and Theology Teacher Cynthia Willmen.

Following the sessions, each milestone class participated in a class reunion via Zoom, with several continuing their virtual festivities until late in the evening. “It speaks to the Canterbury experience that we can Zoom for five hours with a random selection of our classmates and talk, laugh, and tell stories like no time has passed at all,” remarked Livia (Weinstein) Kulczycky ’00.

To recognize the milestone classes, Canterbury’s Advancement Office put together a virtual “care package,” which included yearbook photo collages submitted by class members, Spotify playlists of the top hits

1995

from each milestone graduation year, virtual backgrounds for Zoom featuring campus photos, a virtual campus tour, and an In Memoriam slideshow to remember deceased friends and class members.

Despite not being able to reunite on campus, alumni thoroughly enjoyed the event and relished the opportunity to reconnect with classmates. This was the first Alumni Weekend for Chief Advancement Officer Rick Henderson who marveled at the enduring Canterbury friendships, “It was amazing to see our alumni come together, even if it was virtually. As I reflect on my first Alumni Weekend, I believe it only further proved that one of the true strengths of our School is the relationships among the Society of Alumni.”

2010

Several milestone years celebrated their reunion virtually. Members of the classes of 1970, 1995, and 2010 reminisced until late in the evening!

PAGE 61.

LEADERS Society of Alumni Welcomes New Leadership Patricia Sordoni Rasmussen ’92 and William “Macy” Steers Jr. ’04 begin three-year terms.

D

uring the first-ever virtual Society of Alumni Annual Meeting held

on June 5, the Society of Alumni (SOA)

elected new Co-presidents, Patricia Sordoni Rasmussen ʼ92 and William “Macy” Steers

Jr. ʼ04, and approved four new Executive Committee members. Their terms began on July 1, 2020.

Patricia and Macy have served on the SOA Executive Committee since 2013 and will serve jointly as Co-presidents for three years.

They succeed Peter Tucker ’78, whose term concluded June 30, 2020.

After graduating with a B.A. in history from Lake Forest College, IL, and earning an M.A. in teaching from Simmons College, MA, Patricia spent six months in Ghana in 1998, starting an elementary school and bringing technology to secondary schools.

Since that time, she has remained in close touch with the school, currently serving as an honorary board member and doing what she can to help from a distance. After returning from Ghana, Patricia taught middle and high school history for four years at St. Mark’s School in Boston, MA, and St. Andrew’s Episcopal School in Potomac, MD, and coached soccer, basketball, and lacrosse before beginning her family.

While at Canterbury, Patricia was a

and auctioneer for many years. Patricia

Sacristan, Proctor, and Student Council

returned to work in 2016 as a lifestyle model

member; was a tri-captain for the Girls’

for Reinhard Model and Talent Agency in

Varsity Soccer, Basketball, and Lacrosse

Philadelphia, PA.

teams; and participated in School musicals

Commenting on the goals of her leadership

and Women of Canterbury. She currently resides in the greater Philadelphia area, PA, with her husband, Erik, and her proudest accomplishment is her three sons, all of whom participate at a high level in their chosen interests. Because of the diverse (and busy!) activity level in Patricia’s household, she has been the quintessential volunteer. She has coached her sons’ basketball teams for many years and has volunteered extensively in the arts and education in the Philadelphia region, most notably at the Philadelphia Boys Choir, Lower Merion Public Schools, and Wolf Performing Arts Center—where she served as a board member, event chair

PAGE 62.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

role, Patricia said: “The COVID-19 crisis has reminded us all of the importance of relationships and staying connected, both to Canterbury and each other. I plan to focus on building and improving that connectivity, whether in person or virtually, because we are such a force when we band together. I also want to take advantage of our shared commitment to making a better world.

No matter when you attended the School, values and service become a part of your Canterbury DNA, and working together to improve the world around us is a natural fit for our entire alumni community.”

“Our new Executive Committee members represent a variety of alumni experiences at Canterbury. Their advice and perspectives are invaluable for the School as we work to engage alumni in meaningful ways.

I am grateful for their leadership and commitment to their beloved School.” — RICK HENDERSON, CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER Macy Steers joined Markel Global Insurance

relationship with our school is very personal

in 2013 as a function of the acquisition

and profound. Reflecting on my years at St.

of Alterra Capital and currently serves as

Lawrence, throughout my career, or even as

Senior Director, Financial Institutions for

a dad, I attribute many of my successes to

Markel. Macy joined Alterra in August

my time at Canterbury. I have an immense

2012 with six years of executive liability

desire to give back to the institution that gave

underwriting experience focusing on

me so much. I originally joined the Society

the financial institutions sector. He was

of Alumni Executive Committee in 2013 and

previously the Regional Underwriting

I feel very fortunate to have been involved in

Manager in the Executive Assurance division

building the foundation for the organization.

of Arch Insurance Group, where he oversaw

Canterbury has many assets, but it is the

management liability and related lines

community and its people that are certainly

for its Southeast Region in the Financial

at the top of the list. I am continuously

Institutions segment. Prior to Arch, Macy

humbled and motivated as I learn more

underwrote financial institutions business

about our extraordinary alumni, and I very

for The Hartford in their Financial Products

much look forward to getting to know many

division. Macy received a B.A. in economics

more of them in the future.”

and history from St. Lawrence University,

“Patricia and Macy have been especially

NY, in 2008.

valued members of our SOA Executive

A native of Westchester County, Macy

Committee since its inception,” said Rick

currently resides in Rye, NY, with his

Henderson, Chief Advancement Officer.

wife, Jaime, and two young children. He

“They have been strong servant leaders

is one of many Steers who have attended

among this group of dedicated alumni,

Canterbury School; his brother-in-law,

guiding the strategic direction of our alumni

Richard Straub ʼ10, is also a graduate;

initiatives and offering inspiration, support,

and his sister, Catherine ʼ24, is the newest

and a helping hand whenever they can. They

Saint and member of the Third Form

are truly loyal Saints—with the extraordinary

class. Macy’s hobbies include golf, squash,

passion to match!”

tennis, and paddle. While at Canterbury,

“Our new Executive Committee members

he held numerous leadership positions and was Student Council President, a Sacristan, Proctor, and Admission tour guide. He was also captain of both the Varsity Golf and Squash teams.

represent a variety of alumni experiences at Canterbury,” said Rick Henderson. “Their advice and perspectives are invaluable for the School as we work to engage alumni in meaningful ways. I am grateful for their

Macy remarked on his continuing

leadership and commitment to their beloved

involvement with the School: “While I share

School.”

The newly elected Executive Committee members who joined Patricia and Macy on July 1 include: NEIL BOYLAN ʼ79 Vergennes, VT Director of Business Development Logical Machines University of Miami B.S. in Business Management and Advertising/Marketing DANIELLE ENAGE CONKLING ʼ97 San Carlos, CA Director of Corporate Social Responsibility & ESG Silicon Valley Bank Georgetown University B.S. in Business Administration, Finance and International Business Rice University M.B.A. JACK ELSAS ʼ14 New York, NY Investment Manager Brown Brothers Harriman Connecticut College B.A. in Economic Studies CHRISTINE RUBIN ʼ84 New York, NY Hospice Social Worker Visiting Nurse Service of New York Georgetown University B.A. in English New York University M.S.W. These graduates join existing SOA Executive Committee members: Vice President Victoria Bundonis Rovin ʼ81 Immediate Past President and Trustee Peter Tucker ʼ78 Elizabeth Dooley ʼ10 Thomas Esposito ʼ80 A. Garvin Hammer ʼ85 George Malhame ʼ74 Joanna Martiska Woodworth ʼ77

a bond with many of my family members who graduated from Canterbury, my PAGE 63.

Wow! On May 19th, we called upon the Canterbury community to respond to a truly ambitious challenge—achieve 300 donors in just 24 hours with the hope of unlocking a $100,000 matching gift from our Board of Trustees. The results of our inaugural Saints Giving Day utterly surpassed anything we have ever seen before.

In just one day, 609 proud and loyal donors supported Canterbury and collectively raised a total of $223,631. It bears repeating…WOW! Our warmest thanks go out to you all, and we are honored to ‘Walk Like A Saint’ with you!

$223,631 TOTAL RAISED 609 DONORS DONORS BY

TOP ALUMNI CLASSES

CONSTITUENT GROUP

94

9

70

ALUMNI CLASS WITH THE MOST DONORS

Parents

Students

Faculty and Staff

86

Grandparents, Friends, and Parents of Alumni

2004: 16 Donors ALUMNI CLASS WITH THE MOST DOLLARS

1990: $13,925

350 Alumni

ALUMNI CLASSES WITH

MOST DONORS BY DECADE

DONORS FROM

NINE COUNTRIES USA • UK • Canada Spain • Lithuania • Brazil China • Hong Kong • Panama

50s .....1950, 1953, 1955, 1959 (four-way tie!)

60s......1965 70s .....1971

CURRENT PARENT PARTICIPATION BY CLASS

2020 ...34 Donors 2022....34 Donors 2021.....40 Donors 2023....27 Donors PAGE 64

80s .....1988, 1986 (tie) 90s .....1990 00s .....2004 10s .....2011

REUNION CHALLENGE (0s and 5s)

1990

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

MOST DONORS: 11 MOST DOLLARS: $13,925

class notes

1956

from Canterbury. It reminded her how fragile life can be and how lucky she was to have those friendships. “Growing apart doesn’t change the fact that for a long time we grew side by side; our roots will always be tangled. I’m glad for that.”

After retirement, Rory Mullett moved from New Jersey to Durango, CO. After 15 years, grandkids were growing up too fast, so he moved back to NJ. He downsized to buy a house in a senior community but found that ‘geezerville’ was not for him, so he bought a house in Lawrenceville, NJ, necessitating upsizing. Rory hopes his moving days are done!

Ward O’Neill and his wife, Sue, are very blessed to have four wonderful children and eight terrific grandchildren. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in August 2020.

1961 Kevin O’Shea is still practicing law, 51 years and counting. His brother Brian ’62 is his partner. Kevin enjoys cycling during the warm months and downhill skiing in the winter. He spends time at camp in the Adirondacks in the summer and fall and Florida in the spring. He has two sons and four grandchildren.

1988 1977 Carlos R. Del Valle (pictured above) was promoted to Senior Litigator at TDV Legal Madrid, Spain. He was also bestowed Knighthood of Corpus Christi Chivalry Order, Toledo, Spain.

1981 Upon hearing the sad news about Toby Shea’s passing, Mary (O’Connor) Woolfolk pulled out her old yearbook

Jose Carrion, former Canterbury Trustee, thought it would be of interest to share that on June 1, 2020, the Supreme Court of the United States validated unanimously the appointments of the Federal Oversight Board for Puerto Rico, which he has chaired for the last four years. The Board is the final authority on Puerto Rico’s budget, and tasked with renegotiating Puerto Rico’s $130 billion debt, the largest municipal bankruptcy in the United States.

Jose hopes his classmates are well, and if anyone comes to Puerto Rico, please look him up.

1990 & 1996

Hilary Russell directs the Berkshire Boat Building School/Russell boats from his own home in Sheffield, MA, where he and his wife have lived since 1985.

His articles have appeared in WoodenBoat magazine, and he has taught at the WoodenBoat School in Brooklin, ME. He is the author of several books including Building Skin-on-Frame Double Paddle Canoes and Tugboats and Shipyards: the Russells of New York Harbor, 1844 to 1962. Learn more about his school and these books at www.berkshireboatbuildingschool.org.

PAGE 66.

Sisters Kim (Moffitt) Hehir ’90 and Sue (Moffitt) Delegan ’96 are the Co-founders of Brutus Broth, Inc, an all-natural bone broth company that focuses on providing nutrition to your pet while giving back to the Community.

Kim and Sue partnered with some of the best manufacturers in the country to create high-quality products at affordable prices. Their flagship product, Brutus Bone Broth, was created as a convenient way for dog owners to add the nutritional benefits of bone broth to their dog’s existing diet. They launched in the marketplace in May 2018 in all Wegman Food Markets and Big Y Stores. Since then, they have expanded to other retailers including Target, Petco, Harris Teeter, Shoprite, Roches Bros, Kings Food Markets, and Balduccis, as well as a number of other retailers across the country. A portion of the proceeds is directed back to organizations that are dedicated to helping animals. Their father, Thomas Moffitt, serves as Chairman of the Company. To learn more visit www.brutusbroth.com.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

Left photo: Renata (Gagnon) Kennedy ’00 and Alice McGrail ’00 got together in Maine this summer.

Center photo: Renata ’00 and John’s children Luciana (6), Colin (9 months), and Patrick (3).

2000 Renata (Gagnon) Kennedy and John Kennedy welcomed Colin Michael, on January 4, 2020. Colin joins big sister Luciana, 6, and big brother Patrick, 3.

Alice McGrail visited Renata, John, and family while vacationing in Maine in July.

In January 2020, Eliott Wolfe and his wife Eileen, both professional educators, were invited to the Shan region of central Myanmar, Southeast Asia, to work with a local social enterprise primary school.

Eliott and Eileen recently founded a Hong Kong-based educational consultancy called The Self-Directed Child that is focused on helping parents, teachers, and schools develop practical child-centered educational environments that promote joy and self-learning in young children. In Myanmar, the pair had an amazing time working alongside school leaders, teachers, parents, and children to lay the foundation for an experimental self-directed classroom, which will be the first of its kind in Myanmar.

2001 Jeremy Snyder (pictured above) virtually joined faculty member Misi Babington in the spring as a guest speaker in her SUPA (Syracuse University Project Advance) Sport Management course. After attending Syracuse, Jeremy had internships that paved the way for him to start his own specialized sports and media agency, The Factory Agency. Misi’s course is an educational program that provides Canterbury students with the opportunity to take Syracuse University courses to earn college credit.

Eliott Wolfe ’00 and his wife were invited to work with a primary school in Myanmar earlier this year.

PAGE 67.

2004

2006

Christopher Bolster and Kimberly Finn Bolster welcomed the birth of their child, Branson Ignatius Finn Bolster, on May 31.

David Martin is an Elite Amateur Triathlete. On July 19, 2020, he ran the Connecticut section of the Appalachian Trail. He now holds the new fastest known time for the 51 miles and 13,150 feet of elevation he climbed on the hot July day. The unofficial time was 11 hours and 47 minutes. You can follow him at @endurancedave.

Sarah Powers, owner of A Custom Style, is making an impact! When the coronavirus hit and her clothing business shut down, she quickly shifted gears and was able to source and deliver 38,000 surgical masks to essential businesses throughout CT, including donations to a homeless shelter and to members of her church who are delivering food to the elderly and homebound. Pictured is Sarah sorting her shipment and getting them ready for delivery, along with Daisy, her adorable Goldendoodle!

2010 Paige (Woodhouse) Carlson married Reed Carlson on September 21, 2019, in Newport, RI. They met while attending Villanova University, PA, and currently live in New York City.

2012 Nic Pierog was called up to the Bridgeport Sound Tigers of the American Hockey League during the 19-20 season!

Pictured clockwise on this page: Christopher Bolster ’04 feeding Branson Paige (Woodhouse) Carlson ’10 Nic Pierog ’12 David Martin ’06 Sarah Powers ’04 PAGE 68.

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

2014 Hayley Pettinato left the corporate world to pursue her passion for fitness and help others recognize their full potential.

Having worked in corporate healthcare advertising, Hayley felt as though she wasn’t tapping into her passion and purpose.

She took a risk and decided to make a necessary career switch.

Hayley is now a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Spin Instructor. During the quarantine, she has not only conducted virtual workouts but also launched her own podcast, Philosophy of Fitness.

With a mix of guest interviews and deep dives into topics such as strange sleep phenomena and fitness myths, Hayley seeks to explore all aspects of the mindbody connection from different perspectives. One of her featured guests was James Lord ’13, who started his own wellness business, Jimbo & Jules. The podcast is available for listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. You can also watch every episode on her YouTube channel: youtube.com/hayleynoelle

2015 Shane Sellar moved on following a great hockey career at Dartmouth College, NH! Keep an eye out for Shane during his grad year at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY. Baylor Sundahl signed a professional contract with Sussex County Miners—a professional independent league baseball team based in the Augusta section of Frankford Township, NJ—and was their opening day starter. Baylor threw six solid innings in his professional debut with seven strikeouts!

2016 Cadet John Wilson graduated on June 13, 2020, from the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY. While at West Point, he concentrated his studies in kinesiology. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army within the Armor branch and will report to Fort Benning, Georgia, for his first assignment.

2017 Quinn Greene, a member of the Country Club of Waterbury, put on an impressive showing at the 2020 Connecticut Amateur Championship at Shorehaven Golf Club in Norwalk in June 2020. Ben Day, Chandler Morris, and Quinn combined for a two-day team total of 434 strokes, and that was good enough

to win the team championship at the par71 course. Quinn came in at 6-over 148 (74-74) and tied for 18th. Day, Morris and Greene all took part in the match-play portion of the tournament. Quinn just completed his junior year at Gettysburg College and was named Centennial Conference Men’s Golfer of the Week on March 17, 2020. That turned out to be the final top golfer award of the season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was Quinn’s first time being honored as the conference’s top golfer of the week.

Sean Mesick was diagnosed with testicular cancer this past spring and underwent surgery and chemotherapy at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, NY. He is especially grateful for the support that the Canterbury community showed him and his family during these trying

times. Sean completed his last treatment in late May and is now cancer-free; he is looking forward to returning to Syracuse University this fall for his senior year.

Pictured clockwise on this page: Shane Sellar ’15 Baylor Sundahl ’15 Cadet John Wilson ’16 Quinn Greene ’17 Sean Mesick ’17

PAGE 69.

Lawrence F. Corroon ’42

William A. Morrison ’45

Paul H. Kerin ’51

Edward J. McCabe, Jr. ’52

Arthur G. Hessel, Jr. ’54

James C. Kerney ’54

H. Reed Armstrong ’55

Richard J. Badenhausen ’55

Dr. Alan Davidson, III ’59

Peter W. Holland ’64

Grover J. Cronin, III ’65

William J. Daly, Jr. ’67

Dr. Gregory D. Hume ’72

John H. Schaffeld ’76

Daouda Toure ’01

1924-2020

1936-2020

1927-2020

1937-2020

1949-2020

1947-2020

Vincent J. Fairchild ’01 1983-2020

PAGE 70

1933-2017

1934-2020

1936-2020

1954-2020

John D. Adamo ’02 1984-2020

1936-2020

1942-2020

1945-2020

1957-2020

Chinzu Nwankwo ’10 1992-2020

THE MAGAZINE OF CANTERBURY SCHOOL

1982-2019

Sydney A. Alworth ’14 1995-2020

canterbury

ANNUAL

FUND

Your Annual Fund gift supports

the faculty who prime our students for success, the coaches who demonstrate how to lead, and the mentors who help to establish inspiring opportunities. It is your philanthropy that helps to bring together a global community filled with learning and discovery for our students.

cbury.org/give

@CANTERBURYSCHOOL

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE

PAI D

Canterbury School

HARTFORD, CT PERMIT #1382

cbury.org/familyweekend

VIRTUAL