Youth From Every Quarter - Winter 2010

Youth From Every Quarter A newsletter for parents and friends

Winter 2010

Tapping each student’s capacity to succeed Dear Parents, A few weeks ago, when this job was feeling heavier than it should, I received an e-mail from a friend containing a slide show. I generally don’t have time to look at forwarded messages, but I opened this one, and I was happy I did. It revived my spirits.

The slides were photographs of gorgeous landscapes, flowers, and exotic animals. The first slide caught my eye right away: a close-up of a gorilla looking straight at me. The caption read, “Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.” Wow! I went back to the beginning and learned that the slides contained quotes from a message the Dalai Lama had written for the 2009 New Year.

Great achievements involve great risk.

This struck a chord in me as I thought about how each Andover student must embrace this idea in order to grow.

Coming to Andover is a risk in itself. Will I make it? Will they like me? Will I have friends? Over time, however, students realize that the biggest risks, but the ones that pay the biggest dividends, are intellectual risks. Taking them is at the heart of a great Andover education.

The next slide came along—a stunningly beautiful, backlit white rose.

“When you lose, don’t lose the lesson,”

Enjoying the All-Community Luncheon in Case Memorial Cage on Parents’ Weekend are, back row from left, Megan Robertson ’11 and her sister, Molly, Jennifer Dwyer ’11, and Angelica Jarvenpaa ’11. Front row from left are uppers Dominick Chang, Demetrius Lalanne, and Scott Shambaugh. After lunch, many parents of uppers attended a panel discussion with college admission officers.

was the message. Earlier this year, we were honored to hear a talk by James McBride, winner of the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award for literary excellence for his book The Color of Water. He pointed out that even though he’d written dozens of books, only one was a best seller and prize winner. He reminded students they can learn from mistakes and failures. Our students do not accept failure or losing easily especially in academics. In the college application process, we often see seniors who feel they failed to achieve the perceived top prize, only to learn later that they landed at exactly the right college.

The next slide was the most arresting: two elephants walking side by side, a parent and a young elephant. It was cap-

tioned, “Follow the three R’s: respect for self, respect for others, and responsibility for all your actions.” I have, for some years, spoken to students about these non-academic R’s but probably needed to put more emphasis on the third. Part of the dean of students’ job is to oversee the disciplinary system. We sometimes struggle with issues of honesty and integrity with students who fail to uphold their commitment to follow school rules. The vast majority takes responsibility when confronted, though some, regrettably, are not as straightforward. My belief is that no one’s place at Andover is worth sacrificing one’s integrity.

“Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck,” the fourth slide said. The backCapacity to Succeed continued on page 2

Parents’ Weekend 2009 They brought reminders from home, a boundless pride and enthusiasm, and even the occasional care package of cookies. More than 1,000 parents and other family members visited campus on Parents’ Weekend (October 23–25) to share in their children’s Andover experience for a few golden days of autumn. In addition to attending classes, concerts, and student recitals, cheering on the girls’ varsity soccer team, and reveling in Grasshopper Night performances, many parents also participated in panel discussions and seminars. It was a very full—and fun—few days.

Above: A popular item on parents’ to-do lists was visiting a rotation of their children’s classes on Saturday morning. These parents seem to enjoy being in the classroom again—and pleased that no homework was assigned.

Left: Checking out the weekend’s schedule of events are, from left, Jasmine Stovall ’10; Enobong Udofia, who traveled all the way from Houston; and Udofia’s daughters, Aniebiet Ekpa ’11 and Unwana Ekpa ’13.

Capacity to Succeed continued from page 1

drop? Three sharp bolts of lightning over a calm harbor of sailboats at midnight. I loved the photo and the message. I am a firm believer in doors opening when others are shut.

Living a successful and fulfilling life at Andover is within the grasp of all students; we accepted them because they have the capacity to succeed. We know parents are there to help, support, and encourage their youngsters and so are the faculty, who with wisdom and dedication make teaching and mentoring their life’s work.

Sincerely, Paul D. Murphy ’84 Dean of Students and Residential Life

PSPA’s invaluable assistance funds student clubs, supports The Campaign for Andover Parents of Students of Phillips Academy (PSPA) kicked off the 2009–2010 school year with its annual Fall Reception featuring Head of School Barbara Chase, who spoke candidly with parents about important issues like the H1N1 flu virus and the new fund-raising campaign, The Campaign for Andover. PSPA gave its vote of support for the campaign with a check in the amount of $5,000 to be set aside for the endowment. We encourage all parents to become involved in this worthy cause.

In October, parents met with Paul Murphy ’84, dean of students and residential life, who with wit and humor,

recounted stories and anecdotes about the “journey” each student takes at Andover.

October is also the month in which PSPA donates money to fund various student clubs. This year we had requests from clubs totaling more than $8,000. We were delighted to be able to fund $7,600 worth of these requests.

Our membership continues to increase as we strive to connect all parents via our live-stream video of monthly events (posted on PAnet for viewing one week after the event). I have seen the benefits of our posted videos, because so many of you have emailed me providing feedback and to let me PSPA continued on page 3

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Left: Supriya Jain ’12 (left) and her sister Saloni ’13 were happy to spend some quality time with dad Myank and mother Manisha.

Below left: Gregory Zhang ’12 (right) gave his parents, Tom and Charlene, a campus tour and accompanied them to various events.

Below: Helpful, smiling Blue Keys were on hand all weekend to give directions, answer questions, and assist lost parents in reuniting with their students. Pictured in front of Paresky Commons are, from left, seniors Alex Farrell, Charlie Walters, and Whitney Ford.

PSPA continued from page 2

know that you appreciate staying connected.

Our new Web site, www.pspaandover.org, is now up and running. Check out the Calendar of Events to see if an event of interest will be taking place during a time you may be visiting campus. This allows distant parents to be more involved and to be part of upcoming events like the Winter Carnival.

We are in our second stage of our Web page update, which will allow parents to purchase PSPA merchandise online using Pay Pal. Remember, 100 percent of the proceeds of sales is used to benefit students in various ways.

On November 19, we hosted a panel of international students whose topic was,

“My Andover Experience: International Students Share Their Stories.” It was an interesting, lively discussion, and the many parents who attended were delighted to learn more about these students, of whom Andover is justly proud.

We also have produced a video of the International Pot Luck Dinners, for which each student contributes a dish that they enjoy at home. We plan to share the DVD so that parents will have a chance to see their student and hear in their native language how he or she is adjusting to their new environment.

Senior parents will soon be e-mailed the online application to pre-order the 2010 Senior DVD as well as the gradua-

tion charm. Check your inbox.

PSPA will again host the College Counseling program on February 5–6, 2010, and the Summer Opportunities Fair on Sunday, February 7. The feedback and suggestions we receive at these events allow us to focus on issues pertinent to all parents. Please keep your comments coming and remember that parental involvement is critical to your student’s success at Phillips Academy. PSPA can definitely help you to keep involved. E-mail us at pspa@pspaandover.org.

—Sandra and Michael Terry PSPA Copresidents

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Above: Following registration in Paresky Commons, Lane Lytle ’11 (second from left) is flanked by her parents, Jeffrey and Meredith, of Lake Forest, Ill., and Kelsey Phinney ’11 (second from right) is joined by her mother, Tammy, of Groveland, Mass.

Above right: Lowers Julia Torabi and Asia Bradlee grab a bite to eat at the All-Community Luncheon on Saturday.

Right: Andrew and Grace Peng, who flew in from Cupertino, Calif., watch their son, Ollie Peng ’12, play JV water polo on Saturday afternoon.

Below: Phillips Academy and Lawrence High School students work together on a joint Non Sibi Day art venture.

Meeting Lawrence friends, changing perceptions This year’s Non Sibi Day engaged 36 students from Phillips Academy and Lawrence High School in a joint art venture called “The American Teenager’s Alphabet.” Envisioned as a communitybuilding project, it was modeled after 1969 alumna photographer Wendy Ewald’s “American Alphabet Series,” whose student subjects depicted language, identity, and stereotypes. Rich Gorham ’86, an Andover coach and Lawrence High School teacher, and Julie Bernson, director of education at the Addison Gallery of American Art, worked with PA’s Community Service Office to develop the project. “Lawrence and Andover students, instead of seeing a ‘type,’ can actually see who the other is,” said Bernson. “Maybe this interaction will change perceptions.”

The following is a summary of the experience by project participant Mollie Lee ’10.

On October 3, early on a rainy Saturday morning, 18 groggy students assembled on the steps of Cochran Chapel to begin our Non Sibi Day project. The project leaders, Annie Rao ’10 and myself, took attendance with half-opened eyes. Despite the early hour and downpour we were determined to make it the best Non Sibi Day ever.

Arriving at the Essex Art Center in Lawrence, Mass., we were greeted by Lawrence High School students, already mingling with each other over breakfast food. Someone’s iPod was 4

Lawrence Friends continued on page 5

Grasshopper Night

Grasshopper Night, a highlight of Parents’ Weekend for many, gave four sold-out performances in Tang Theatre in George Washington Hall. All segments are produced, directed, and performed by students.

Above left: Dancers perform “Yes,” choreographed by seniors Brenna Liponis and Liz Lavin. From left are Sayer Mansfield ’10, Liponis, Carolyn Harmeling ’11, and Haley Scott ’11.

Above right: From left, Dan Krichmar ’12, Dominick Chang ’11, and Emily Adler ’12 rock. Adler and her harp were added to the group after she convinced the boys her glissando, a musical technique, would complement their style.

Left: Mollie Lee ’10 and Aleksander Huzar ’11 act out a scene from the play A Penny for Your Thoughts, written by Rei Konolige ’10.

Right: Mandisa Mjamba ’10 (left), Hector Kilgoe ’11, and Emilie Kannekens ’10 show off their version of “The Cell Block Tango,” from the musical Chicago.

Lawrence Friends continued from page 4

playing, and that started conversations with our LHS neighbors about our favorite bands. After introductions, the brainstorming began, and we came up with a group theme for our project, “The American Teenager’s Alphabet.”

To get to know each other better, we played a name game, which involved learning things we have in common. Juliet, Annie, and Christian like writing for the school newspaper, and Genesis, Alejandro, and I like to sing in the shower. Then we sat, intermingled, and listened as our faculty advisors, Ms. Bernson and Mr. Gorham, explained the project.

Three students were grouped together and each was assigned a letter of the alphabet. Then, using our particular letter, we had to come up with words or phrases that had meaning in our lives as high school students. After deciding on the words, we were to act each one out and document it in a photograph. My group was assigned letters M, N, and O, and after much discussion, we decided to act out and photograph “Mean girls” (bullying), “Naughty and Nice” (those who break rules and those who do not), and “Overly emotional.” Other kids’ choices, ranged from A for Anorexia to Z for Zzzzz (oversleeping!). We took turns

in front of and behind the camera, and we were excited about the finished product.

Despite the downpour, each group stepped outside in order to find the perfect props and backgrounds for the photographs.

After presenting our finished photos, we exchanged e-mail addresses and promised to ‘friend’ each other on Facebook. As many of us hugged goodbye, we realized how close we live to each other and agreed to hang out soon.

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Andover’s international student coordinator, Susanne Torabi, far left, is shown here at an International Club meeting in mid-November where students shared stories of their Andover experiences. Pictured front row from left are Sarah Jacobson ’10 (England), Sophia Jia ’10 (Beijing), and Marta Misiulaityte ’10 (Lithuania). Back row from left: Torabi, Andrew Cho ’12 (South Korea), Pierre-Julien Blouin ’12 (Canada), Elezhan Zhakiya ’12 (Russia), Felicia Jia ’12 (Beijing), Tahir Kapoor ’12 (U.S.), Natthamon “Pew” Wutilertcharoenwong ’10 (Thailand), David Thwaites ’11 (Jamaica), Fatoumata Diarra ’13 (originally from Guinea, now living in U.S.), Lauren Kim ’13 (U.S.), Adeola “Didi” Oyinlola (originally from Nigeria, now living in U.S.), and Pia Aehnlich ’10 (Germany).

Tradition of welcoming international students enriches community Joseph Hardy Neesima, Andover Class of 1867, wanted an education in America so badly that a ship’s captain smuggled him in a sailing vessel from Japan to China. From there he crossed the vast seas to Andover. The first Japanese to attend Phillips Academy, he went on to found Doshisha University, Japan’s first Christian university. Today there are seven students from Japan who have joined Andover’s international community, all with a similar goal to Neesima’s—an American education at Andover.

At the beginning of the school year in September, Andover welcomed 77 new students with international backgrounds from 22 countries. In that tally, the school includes 12 U.S. citizens who live abroad, 9 permanent residents, 31 non-U.S. citizens, and 25 with dual citizenship. The new students joined 116 other international students who returned to Andover from such far-flung countries as Albania, Myanmar, the Netherlands, Portugal, China, and Russia. Overall, international students attending Andover for the school year 2009–2010 represent 34 countries.

An all-important component of the Andover experience for some of these students is the school’s host family program.

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Host families take students on trips or local outings, bring them to their homes for holiday meals and vacation visits, and generally try to make them feel at home.

“Being a host family has been a very rewarding experience,” says Jennie Gaiss of North Andover, mother of Ryan ’11. Jennie, husband Michael, and Ryan host two boys, one from Great Britain and one from Jamaica. “Although the boys live in dorms on campus, it has given us the opportunity to provide them with some ‘typical’ American life experiences. Simply sending exam week treats, inviting them to dinner at our home, or accompanying them to a concert or sporting event lets them know they are cared for in a very special way.”

Andover’s international student coordinator, Susanne Torabi, is now in her fourth year leading the program. Since first taking over the program, the number of local families opting to be a part of the host family program has almost doubled. The number of international students enrolled in the host family program has increased by 69 percent, and the number of host families has grown by 31 percent—bearing out Torabi’s belief in the importance of the program. And she wears many other hats as

well—those of faculty advisor to the International Club and the Andover Philanthropist Society, academic advisor, coach, counselor, and mentor. She says she finds it “very rewarding seeing students thrive in different areas.” Torabi knows first-hand the challenges and rewards of being new to this country. A resident of the United States since 1991, she came to this country from Germany after completing her education as a teacher and earning a master’s degree there.

International students add a rich ingredient to the Andover stew, says Torabi, and many teachers note that their insights into global issues are particularly valued; the diversity and perspective they offer are invaluable learning tools. Torabi and other faculty also want to be sure these students grow to value their own identities and their own cultures. One student, Carolyn Whittingham ’11 of Jamaica, said she at first outfitted herself in Abercrombie & Fitch clothing for fear that if she didn’t, she might be ostracized. “It wasn’t until I arrived that I realized how pointless it was. Why was I trying to become an American? I am a representative of Jamaica,” she says proudly.

—Paula Trespas

The Campaign for Andover Launched in Early November On Thursday, November 5, Phillips Academy marked the public announcement of The Campaign for Andover, Building on the Surest Foundation. The campaign seeks to raise $300 million in endowment and current-use funds to support students, faculty, academic programs, and campus restoration. The Andover Fund, with a fiscal year 2010 goal of $12.2 million, is a part of the campaign. Since July 1, 2005, the campaign has been in a “silent phase,” with all gifts given to one of its priorities counted toward the $300 million goal. “Andover’s future is secured and safeguarded only by the generosity of our alumni, parents, and friends,” said Oscar L. Tang ’56, president of the Board of Trustees and chair of the campaign, and Barbara Landis Chase, head of school, in a joint statement. To date, more than 15,000 donors have made gifts and pledges totaling $187.5 million.

For more information about the campaign, please visit www.andover.edu/campaign.

—Ann Harris Director of Class, Reunion, and Parent Giving

Gifts and Pledges by Campaign Priority (as of December 14, 2009) Raised to Date

“The generosity of so many alumni and parents allows us to experience the extraordinary every day at Andover,” said Faiyad Ahmad ’10, school president, as part of the campaign launch in Cochran Chapel.

Goal

Support for Andover: Current Use

$39,047,358

$52M

Support for Andover: Endowment

$19,366,498

$20.5M

Support for Students

$39,071,540

$68M

Support for Faculty & Academic Programs

$18,946,746

$72M

Support for Campus

$50,589,308

$87.5M

Campaign Gift Fund (to be designated)

$20,512,500

TOTAL

$187,533,950

$300M

Class of 2011 parents invited to College Counseling Kickoff

20th Annual Summer Opportunities Fair on February 7

Parents of uppers are invited to a College Counseling Kickoff event on Friday and Saturday, February 5–6, 2010. Registration, in the Steinbach Lobby of George Washington Hall, will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m., on Friday, February 5, and from 8 to 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 6.

On Friday at 7:30 p.m., child psychologist and author Michael Thompson, PhD, will present, “Parenting and the College Admissions Process,” in Tang Theatre in George Washington Hall.

Events on Saturday morning, February 6, will include a panel of senior students offering reflections and advice on applying to college, mock admission committees in small parent groups led by college admission officers, and group meetings for parents with their child’s college counselor. Following lunch in Paresky Commons, a financial aid representative from a local college will discuss “Financing a College Education.”

More detailed information on the College Counseling Kickoff will be sent to Class of 2011 parents in mid-December.

More than 90 representatives and directors of national and international summer and gap-year programs will be on hand again this year to answer student and parent questions on a wide range of enrichment programs and offer handouts and brochures. For a complete list of last year’s representatives, click www.andover.edu/studentlife/summeropportunities.

Sunday, February 7 11 a.m–2 p.m.

Case Memorial Cage The Summer Opportunities Fair, sponsored by Parents of Students of Phillips Academy (PSPA) and the Summer Opportunities Office, is being held on the same weekend as the College Counseling Kickoff for upper parents. To contact the Summer/Interim Year Opportunities Office, call 978-749-4480 or e-mail rbarry@andover.edu.

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Going to College and Other Excellent Summer Adventures How do you attend an Ivy League college while still a student at Phillips Academy?

Ask Matt Renner ’10, Mollie Lee ’10, and Kerry Lanzo ’11, who last summer attended programs at Harvard (see story at right), Yale, and Georgetown University respectively. They took academic courses, lived in the dorms, ate in the dining facilities, and learned first-hand what life is like on these venerated campuses.

Sophia Jia ’10, Isabel Elson ’12, and Ceylon Auguste-Nelson ’12 participated in three different community service projects in the United States and abroad. Some had major readjustments to make as they left the comforts of home—like Sophia, who traveled with the Amigos de las Américas program (see story lower right). Living in a small isolated village in Nicaragua with no running water, toilets, or showers, and with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees, Sophia helped build a well and played with the local children, all while practicing her Spanish.

Isabel went to Thailand with the company Adventures Cross-Country to help organize an English-speaking camp for children. While there, she took an elephant ride, which was a highlight.

Ceylon stayed closer to home, participating in The Road Less Traveled program in New Orleans, where volunteers rebuilt homes destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. She became skilled at putting up dry wall and got to hear some amazing jazz.

Many students practiced the languages they are learning at PA in China, France, Germany, and Russia, while others took part in internships in film, politics, and business, both in this country and abroad.

Detailed descriptions of these and other summer experiences can be found on the Summer Opportunities Web page at w w w. a n d o v e r . e d u / s t u d e n t l i f e / summeropportunities/testimonials.

—Roxanne Barry Director of the Summer/Interim Year Opportunities Office

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Parking his car near Harvard Yard This past summer I spent seven weeks at one of the world’s greatest schools, Harvard University. Some might think I was insane. Why would I ever want to spend most of my summer at school and miss out on vegetating for three and a half months? Let me share with you my experience at Harvard, and hopefully you will understand.

When I decided to go to the Harvard Secondary School Program, my goal was to take classes that would help me become a better artist, while, at the same time, having the experience of integrating myself into Ivy League life. Most of the summer school students took law and psychology classes. Mine were a bit different.

I took “Works on Paper” and “Drawing Into Painting,” for a total of two classes and eight undergraduate credits.

The professors at Harvard are incredibly gifted. My teachers were innovative and pushed me to my limits in art. I realize now that without this experience, my art would be lacking in

Matthew Renner (second from left) with fellow art students at Harvard University

depth and meaning. My painting teacher taught me to “paint the painting, not the object.” I will forever remember this advice and take it with me wherever my journey in art takes me.

I would recommend this program to anyone who loves the Boston area and to anyone who wants to get the ultimate taste of college classes and experiences. I will always cherish the friendships I made at Harvard; it was truly an unforgettable experience.

—Matthew Renner ’10

Seeing another culture through the eyes of Amigos Last summer, I traveled with the Amigos de las Américas program to Nicaragua, where my assigned partner, Claire, and I stayed at a host family’s home in the small village of Aguas Calientes.

The village had no running water, no toilets, no showers, no air conditioning or fans to cool us during six weeks of 90-degree-plus weather, and no phone or Internet service. My friends and family wondered why I chose to do such a thing. I did it because I’ve lived all over the world, but always in the same environment with the same material comforts I’m used to. I’ve never lived in someone else’s culture, and I wanted that experience—but minus the 97 (yes, 97) mosquito bites!

As volunteers we taught daily twohour workshops at the local elementary school with themes such as theatre, children’s rights, arts and crafts, and conflict resolution.

In the duration of my stay I met only two children who were healthy; the others had serious diseases. When the people of the community expressed their desire to

Sophia Jia, right, preparing a meal with her host mother in Nicaragua

alleviate this problem, we decided to help.

With others in the town, we built a well so that the people would have access to clean water. We held fund-raising fiestas and raised enough money to cover half the cost of the well. The Amigos organization funded the rest.

It was sad for me to leave my host family and the kids who had adopted me and scampered up trees to pick mangoes and coconuts for me. I hope I made a positive impact on their lives.

—Sophia Jia ’10

Parents play vital role in the development mix

2009–2010 Parent Fund Leadership Team and Advisory Board Parent Fund Chairs Connie Wright and David Stoldt P’07,’09,’12

Senior Parent Fund Chairs Pamela Falk and Edward Wallace, P’10 Sonya Smith and Keith Green, P’10 Lisa and Thomas Rauh, P’07, ’10 Grace Oh and John Rhee, P’10 Montatip Chotiyanonta and Jeffrey McDowell ’75, P’10 Brad Johnson, P’10, ’13 Reconnecting at the Non Sibi Reception at the home of Becky and Elwin Sykes are, from left, Sanjay Mithal (Aditya ’10); Dwight Walker and, in red, Carol Martignetti-Walker (Jack ’09 and Will ’11); and Amy Cherry-Abitbol and Pierre Abitbol (Max ’09 and Alec ’11).

The annual Parent Fund Volunteer Training held on Friday, October 23, began with Becky Sykes, associate head of school, and Sandy Butters, director of parent giving, greeting Parent Fund volunteers and expressing appreciation to parents for all they do in support of the Academy. They stressed the vital role parents play in sustaining Andover’s excellence. Training was separated into two sessions, one for new parent volunteers and another for all Parent Fund volunteers. Head of School Barbara Landis Chase welcomed parents and thanked them for their important commitment to their children’s education, their loyalty to Andover, and their non sibi spirit.

Elliot Hacker, past parent and current PA comptroller and assistant treasurer, demonstrated the critical role unrestricted gifts play in the lives of every student.

Specifically, they are used to bridge the gap between the cost of educating each student and the cost of tuition. Many do not realize that tuition covers only about 55 percent of the cost of educating a student. An additional 35 percent comes from endowment, and the Andover Fund provides the remaining 10 percent of the Academy’s annual operating budget. Hacker explained how annual giving also bridges the gap created by the downturn in the economy and sustains the educational program for every student.

Jane Fried, dean of admission and assistant head for enrollment, research, and planning, discussed the Academy’s historic levels of success in admissions. This academic year marks the most intense and competitive admission cycle in the Academy’s 231-year history. The incoming students represent a median class rank in the top one percent and arrived on campus from 34 states and 22 countries.

Jim Ventre, director of financial aid and admission operations, explained how the Parent Fund helps support Andover’s need-blind admission policy, a reflection of Andover’s commitment to access for the most talented youth from every quarter. The collective effort of parents last year helped sustain need-blind admission and increase financial aid support by two percent for this academic year. Now, 44 percent of Andover’s students receive the financial assistance they need.

Attendees also were treated to a moving display of photos from the last three years’ Non Sibi Day volunteer efforts. Non Sibi Day unites Andover community members across the world each year in a day devoted to community service.

Parent Fund cochair Connie Wright was heartened by the enthusiasm of parent attendees and stressed the importance of participation from the entire parent community in order to reach this year’s fund-raising goal of $1.75 million. Last year, 62 percent of our current parents made gifts ranging from $25 to $100,000, contributing a total of $1.55 million to the Parent Fund. Our grandparents and parents of alumni also contributed generously to last year’s total. “Your critical work enables Andover to

Parent Fund Leadership Council Current parents Amy Cherry-Abitbol and Pierre Abitbol P’09, ’11 Sandra and Michael Terry, P’11 Rachel and William Brannan, P’11 Marla and Larry Curtis, P’04, ’07, ’11 Deborah and Vernon Ellinger, P’12 Leslie and Howard Appleby, P’11, ’13 Parents of Alumni Mary Ann and Michael St. Peter, P’02 Jennifer and Robert Grunbeck, P’09 International Parents (Hong Kong) Catherine and Tony Choi, P’12 Theresa Li and Ronald Leung, P’11 Alumni Parent Committee Jaymie and Steven Ho ’74, P’06, ’08, ’11 Susan Peters ’75 and Steven Levene, P’09, ’12 Tia Doggett ’79 and Stewart MacDonald, P’13 Grandparent Society Chairs Barbara and John Robinson, GP’08, ’12 Katharine and Martin Begien ’46, GP’10 Robert Foley, GP’11, ’13 Myung-Sook and Young-Bin Min, GP’06, ’10

Advisory Board Janet and Ray Benvenuti, P’12 Reena and Sanjay Mithal, P’10 Susan and Paul Schott, P’10 Georgia and George Shenk, P’12 Alix Quay and Gregory Meagher, P’11 Emma and Jonathan Becker, P’10 9

Development Mix continued on page 10

Andover–Exeter 2009

Above: Andover girls showed Exeter rivals their winning ways in a 3–0 rout on the field hockey turf, capping an undefeated season. Standout player Katie Riley ’10 (center) drives to score the winning goal.

Right: In the 131st year of the prep schools’ football rivalry, Andover running back Malcolm Mason Rodriguez ’11 maneuvers for extra yardage as Exeter defenders close in for the tackle.

Above: Soggy field conditions frustrated both Andover and Exeter boys’ soccer teams as they slogged to a 0–0 tie. Here, Connor Hickey ’11 takes control of an Exeter kick.

Bottom right: Blue Key head Claire King ’10, leads the Andover charge.

Development Mix continued from page 9

provide our children with an exceptional education and opportunities that literally transform their lives,” summarized Wright.

The weekend included three cocktail receptions in recognition of Andover parents. At the annual Non Sibi Reception hosted by Becky and Elwin Sykes, more than 75 parents gathered in celebration of their collective efforts on behalf of the Academy. Dave Stoldt, Parent Fund cochair, and Becky Sykes thanked parents for their leadership support and all that they make possible at the Academy. (Connie Wright and Dave Stoldt are the parents of Connor ’07, Emerson ’09, and Camerin ’12.)

At a reception in honor of senior parents hosted by Barbara and David Chase and Debby ’86 and Paul Murphy ’84, director of alumni affairs and dean of students and residential life, respectively, more than 100 parents shared their pride and gratitude as their children begin their momentous senior year. Butters introduced Tom and Lisa Rauh (Rachel ’07 and Carly ’10) and Ed Wallace and Pam Falk (William ’10), senior Parent Fund leaders who spoke about the impact of the traditional senior parent gift on the life of the school.

The third reception, hosted by Jane and Stephen Fried at Davis Hall, gave the 125 parents of juniors and lowers who attended an opportunity to get to know each other and share their children’s Andover experiences. Jane Fried explained how Andover’s record admission success enriches the experience of all Andover students by bringing the most talented youth from every quarter together.

If you haven’t already, we hope that you will soon speak with one of our parent volunteers as they ask for your support of the Parent Fund this year. Your collective efforts and generosity strengthen your children’s educational experience, enhance their global awareness, and fuel their non sibi action.

If you would like to join our Parent Fund volunteer team, please e-mail Sandy Butters at sbutters@andover.edu. We welcome your help and appreciate your efforts.

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—Stacy Gillis Development Writer

Despite gridiron loss, Andover posts strong stats overall

Top: Meghan McCafferty ’10 (center) connects for a well-aimed spike, helping her team notch the first win of the day for the Big Blue.

Below: Come rain or shine, boisterous cheering is top priority for Blue Key heads. Seniors Natalie Sun and Michael Scognamiglio shout encouragement to an already psyched football team.

Torrential rains accompanied the traditional Andover–Exeter fall showdown, this year hosted by Exeter. But the spirits of Big Blue fans were not dampened. Fourteen busloads of exuberant PA students joined countless alumni, faculty, parents, and other fans to cheer on their teams against the Big Red. In the day’s only dry venue, the girls’ volleyball team notched PA’s first victory, 3–0 (25–20, 25–19, 25–13), in a gym filled and rocking with red- and blue-clad partisans. With Meghan McCafferty ’10, Viola Rothschild ’10, Jamie Shenk ’12, and Alexi Bell ’13 dominating at the net, the Blue spiked, blocked, and defended well throughout with an excellent team effort, typified by two spectacular diving saves by Rothschild and Chelsea Ward ’12.

The boys’ soccer team battled Exeter and the elements to a 0–0 tie. Up front, Garnet Hathaway ’10 and Tebs Maqubela ’11 worked tirelessly but came away with little to show for it, while the midfield saw many of their best passes stop abruptly in a puddle. Given the muddy conditions, the back line of Sam Percival ’10, Peter Lee-Kramer ’11, Brian Woonton ’11, and Myles O’Neil ’12 had to be strong, and Spencer Macquarrie ’10 was masterful in goal.

As the storm persisted, field conditions deteriorated so badly that the girls’ soccer game was cancelled, disappointing both the Andover girls and their Exeter rivals. However, led by captains Alex Farrell ’10 and Katherine Sherrill ’10, Andover took its marvelously symmetrical 7–1–7 record into post-season play (as the seventh seed) and ripped off three straight 1–0 victories to capture the New England Prep School Class A championship.

On the stadium turf, the field hockey game was scoreless at halftime before Andover shifted gears, knocking in three goals to earn a 3–0 win and finish the regular season undefeated. Katie Riley ’10, who scored the game-winner, and fellow seniors Eliza Flynn, Colleen Flanagan, Emilie Kannekens, and cocaptains Avery Stone and Kyleigh Keating were outstanding throughout the season for this team that outscored its opponents 44–6 on the way to 14 wins with 11 shutouts.

The boys’ water polo team was not in action on the weekend, having been edged by Choate 11–10 the previous Wednesday in the play-in round of their league tournament.

This was nevertheless a strong year for PA water polo, as they posted an 8–6 regular season record. Led by senior cocaptains Conor McAuliffe and Curtis Hon, the Blue made big strides during the season, putting together a four-game win streak.

Cocaptains Bobby Vardaro ’10 and Zach Boyd ’10 had their team charged up for the afternoon’s football showdown at Phelps Stadium. Andover, at 3–1–1, was the decided underdog against the undefeated Big Red (7–0), but after Exeter jumped in front 14–0, the Big Blue battled back to tie on touchdowns by Andrew Vailas ’10 on a 3-yard run and Edward von Kuhn ’10 on an 11-yard pass from Vailas. PEA went back up 21–14 just before halftime, but Andover opened the second half with an impressive drive that reached the Exeter 7-yard line before stalling. A third-quarter PA goal-line stand forced the Red to kick a field goal, leaving the game still up for grabs at 24–14, until a long touchdown run for PEA made the final 31–14.

Meanwhile, the boys’ and girls’ cross-country teams were competing in the NEPSTA championship races at Northfield Mount Hermon, both having defeated Exeter in a dual meet at PA a week earlier. In the boys’ race, a strong PA team placed five runners in the top 15 overall and was just edged by Loomis Chaffee for the team title. Renat Zalov ’11, PA’s frontrunner during most of the season, finished ninth overall, with Nick Kearns ’11 right behind. Matt Appleby ’11 ran a very strong race to earn seventh place.

The Andover girls dominated the field—four Big Blue runners were among the top six finishers—and earned their fifth consecutive New England cross-country championship. Kate Bulger ’11 led the way for Andover, taking first place overall, and was followed closely by Katie Ellinger ’12 (third), Caitlin Kingston ’11 (fifth), and team captain Caroline Gezon ’10 (sixth).

Four Andover teams qualified for post-season tournament play. Joining the girls’ soccer team were boys’ soccer, field hockey, and volleyball. It was truly a great fall for PA teams.

—Andy Cline Sports Information Director 11

GAME DAY SPIRIT Tom Palleschi ’12 and Josh Feng ’10 form a fearsome Blue Man Duo at the Andover-Exeter matchup on November 14.

Save the date

ay D ’ s t n e r a p d Gran Saturday, May 8, 2010

Winter Term Academic Calendar

Learn more about life at Andover!

January 3, Sunday

Winter vacation ends, 8 p.m.

January 4, Monday

Winter trimester classes begin

Click the links below to read and see more about what’s happening at Phillips Academy.

January 18, Monday

Martin Luther King Jr. Day (special schedule)

January 23, Saturday

College Board examinations: SAT I & SAT II

Jan. 28–30, Thursday–Saturday Trustees meetings February 5, Friday

Mid-Term Academic Review

February 5–6, Friday-Saturday

College Counseling Kickoff for Upper Parents

February 6, Saturday

ACT tests

February 7, Sunday

Summer Opportunities Fair

February 8, Monday

Cluster Academic Review Meetings

February 15, Monday

Mid–winter holiday (no classes)

February 27, Saturday

Andover–Exeter athletic contests

March 5, Friday

Classes end (regular schedule)

March 8–11, Monday-Thursday End-of-term (special schedule, extended periods) March 11, Thursday

Spring vacation begins, 2:30 p.m.

Phillips Academy • 180 Main Street • Andover MA 01810-4161

Girls’ Soccer Wins NEPSAC Championship Trustees Celebrate Campaign Launch, Discuss Budget Challenges Tang and Chase Host “State of the Academy” Webcast Football Team’s Loss Offset by Cross-Country Championship Alumni Celebrate Jon Stableford’s Final Home Cross-Country Meet Building Momentum, The Campaign for Andover Goes Public PA Students Launch Teen Social Entrepreneurship Collaborative Andover Mourns Loss of Ted Sizer, Legendary Educator and Headmaster Three Seniors Named Semifinalists in 2010 National Achievement Scholarship Program From Our Non Sibi Community to Yours: Thank You Three Students Studying German Receive Top Honors for Fluency BBC Features Thought-Leaders in Education Chad Green Helps Inspire Fledgling Changemakers Campus Welcomes Exceptional Group of New Students Wenyu Cao ’11 Wins Third Medal in Third Science Olympiad this Summer PA Student Wins Medal at International Physics Olympiad

Photography: Art Durity and John Hurley