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Dear Portledge Community, Welcome to the 2025 Portledge Gala Digital Journal! Tonight, we come together to celebrate a landmark moment—60 years of Portledge School—and to honor the enduring purpose that has shaped generations of students, families, and educators. Our gala–this year a Black & White Ball–is more than a gala; it is a reflection of the values that define us: honor for our traditions, respect for one another, kindness in all that we do, and a shared purpose to inspire the future. In keeping with our theme, Honoring Tradition. Inspiring Tomorrow., this evening strikes a harmonious balance between elegance and innovation. We’ve reimagined the event with warmth and intention, foregoing the formality of a traditional dinner and live auction in favor of a more vibrant, free-flowing celebration. Whether indoors or under the stars, may you find joy in the connections you make, the stories you share, and the generosity you extend in support of our students. I would like to offer a profound and heartfelt thank you to our Gala Chair, Mona Sanveren, whose service to Portledge is nothing short of extraordinary. With unmatched dedication, grace, and vision, she has chaired this event more times than any other parent in the school’s history. Her tireless work and unwavering commitment reflect the very spirit of Portledge—a spirit rooted in kindness, fueled by purpose, and carried with honor. We are deeply grateful for her leadership. To all our families, alumni, faculty, and friends—thank you. Your support brings our mission to life and ensures that the values we hold dear continue to guide us for the next 60 years and beyond. Every bid, every ad, and every moment you share with us this evening is an act of generosity that strengthens our community and uplifts our students. Here’s to a night filled with joy, gratitude, and a deep sense of belonging. With heartfelt appreciation, Simon Owen-Williams
Portledge School Board of Trustees 2024-2025 Don Wilson, President David Schamis, Vice-President Shawnée Warfield, Vice-President Joel Friedman, Treasurer Donna Burke, Secretary
Trustees Claude Bahnik '90
Teddy Lynn Lindsey Barnett Dr. Luis Marcos Peter Guo Dr. Kevin Mercier Yong Lee Ari Sass Amy Littman Harry Taylor '92
Thank you to our devoted committee for their steadfast support of Portledge School. Your dedication makes a difference! Vera Jain Mona Sanveren - Chair Christine Kasper Marie Bahnik Kim Leonard Michèle Bahnik-Mercier Amy Littman Lindsey Barnett Tiffany Palagonia Daniella Calonita Katherine Schidlovsky Jessica Chitty Emily Wachtel Franki Doshi Michelle Wilson Denise Faltischek Despina Yarian Wendy Fentress Akina Zhong Jami Friedman Lucy Zhou Kim Guo Maria Zografos
Dear Portledge Community, It has been a true privilege to chair this year’s Portledge Gala as we come together to celebrate 60 wonderful years of our beloved school. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible support from every corner of our community — through your involvement, generosity, and sponsorships. The success of this evening is a beautiful reflection of the spirit and heart that make Portledge so special. I am especially thankful to our Head of School, Simon Owen-Williams, for his leadership and for believing in the vision I brought to this year’s Gala. This evening marks a meaningful departure from past events, and I am deeply appreciative of his encouragement and trust. A heartfelt thank you as well to Tara Askeland and Rachel Chanenchuk in the Development Office, whose tireless efforts and unwavering dedication made tonight possible. I am truly in awe of everything they have done behind the scenes. And to my incredible Gala Committee — I am endlessly grateful. It truly takes a village, and I feel so lucky to have had such passionate and committed friends working alongside me to reach our shared goals. A special thank you also to my husband Jim and daughter Cole, whose love, patience, and support have meant the world to me throughout this journey. Thank you for being part of this extraordinary celebration. Together, we have honored the past, embraced the present, and set the stage for an even brighter future. With gratitude, Mona Sanveren
Special Thanks to Our Generous Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors as of May 1, 2025
Portledge Board of Trustees Jennifer and Brian Cohen Maria and Andre Cole Franki and Nishat Doshi FLIK Independent School Dining The Kelly/Lynaugh Family Priority One Productions Mona and Jim Sanveren Kati-Ann and Michael Sklar Sound Up! Video Angela and Artem Vaynman
Silver Sponsors Donna and Billy Burke ConnectOne Bank Lora and Gary Giampetruzzi Julia and Christopher Lee Amy and Alan Littman Melissa and William Peterson Caryl and Leonard Shapiro The Strauss Family Harry Taylor '92 and Motoko Sakurai Xiao Tong
Bronze Sponsors Patricia and Michael Espinal Denise and Kenneth Faltischek Kimberly Moglia-Hare and Robert Hare Marina and Nicholas Malafis Dana and Michael Plunkett
Copper Sponsors Kara and Alan Brodsky Eve Shapiro '13 Whitney and Brian Sigler
as of May 1, 2025
Faculty Sponsors Anonymous Delores and Hugh Mannering Marie and Claude Bahnik '90 Claudia Quiroz-Marcos and Luis Marcos Dan Beyer Margot McGinness Lauren and Robert Bier Michèle Bahnik Mercier '93 and Kevin Mercier Halley and Adam Bodian Maryellen and William Mooney '87 Kara and Alan Brodsky Tiffany and Al Palagonia Ron-Alyse and Richard Cammerer Leslie and Eric Palatnik Liyuan Wang and Feng Chen Meri and Michael Pasztor Jessica and James Chitty Christine and Michael Pata Marissa and Christopher Coyne Marielle Pietronigro Beth and Corbin Day Angela and Michael Pistilli Kristin and Morgan Dennehy Dana and Michael Plunkett Geraldine and Kevin Desmond Christina and Cary Potter Cassandra and Richard DiPietro Dena and Mark Prybutok Kristin and James Dolan Rachel and David Rahr Franki and Nishat Doshi Samantha and Joshua Ratner Denise and Kenneth Faltischek Kelly and Marko Rosa Wendy and Andrew Fentress Kerry and Henry Rosen Meghan and Micah Finkel Linli Yan-Rosenberg and Steven Rosenberg Jana and Scott Fishkind Sarane Ross Eliza and Bjorn Franson Jaime and Louis Ruggiero Jami and Joel Friedman Mona and Jim Sanveren Nehal Farouky and James Gohar Caroline Hayday and Richard Scarpa Dan Guglielmone Becky and David Schamis Kim and Peter Guo Kerry Weatherhead-Shenoy and Nithin Shenoy Kimberly Moglia-Hare and Robert Hare Meryl and Andy Todd Andrea Rizzo-Ivezi and Jet Ivezi Victoria and Stephen Tomasheski Vera and Sam Jain Emily and Jason Wachtel Christine and Michael Kasper Shawnée and Johnny Warfield Patricia and Marek Kiyashka Michelle and Donald Wilson Bari and Ronald Klein Despina and Michael Yarian Chris and Alex Koundourakis Maritsa Valerio and Khaled Zahran Chloe Yang and Yong Lee Ellen and David Zimmerman Melissa Long '98 and Christopher Long Maria and Nicholas Zografos Jenni and Teddy Lynn Beth and Ross Mallor
as of May 1, 2025
A heartfelt thank you to the Portledge Faculty and Staff for an outstanding year! The ninth-grade students and their families deeply appreciate your dedication to inspiring, educating, and guiding our children.
Twelfth Grade Class of 2025
Tenth Grade Class of 2027
The 10th Grade wish Portledge a
Tenth Grade Class of 2027
and their families very successful evening!
Seventh Grade Class of 2030
Sixth Grade Class of 2031
The 6th-grade class and their families thank the Portledge faculty, staff, and administration for their dedication to our students.
All our love and support to Ryder Alstodt and the wonderful Class of 2026!
The Alstodt Family
Here's to 60 Years! We are proud to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of Portledge School.
Thank you to the faculty and staff for making Portledge a first-class environment to mature and flourish. The Bahnik Family Marie, Claude '90, Reid '22, Oliver '24, Nate '26
Thank you to the faculty and administration for another incredible year. Your support and guidance means so much to this family. Cheers to a spectacular Gala celebration!
Love from all the Barnetts
Happy 60th Birthday, Portledge! We’re so thankful for all the care and hard work that make this community so special. It’s a place where students grow, learn, and feel valued. Here’s to many more years of success and inspiration!
The Benjamin Family Kirsten, Jay and Isobel ’30
Thank you, Portledge School, for empowering our children with the tools to succeed and the support to grow. We appreciate everything you do to shape their futures!
The Chen Family Lidong, Xiaoyun, Helen, & Johnny
Thank you, Portledge, for your kindness and unwavering support. We’re so grateful to be part of a community that truly cares, uplifts, and inspires every day!
The Chen Family William, Diana, Christopher ’26 and Nikki ’29
A heartfelt thank you to the Portledge Tennis Program and the exceptional coaches who continue to guide, inspire, and support the team.
The Coyne Family
A heartfelt thank you to the faculty and staff for another amazing year!
With gratitude, Nish, Franki, and Escher Doshi.
We’re honored to support the 2025 Portledge Gala. A heartfelt thank you to the incredible Faculty and Staff of Portledge School for your dedication to creating a community where students grow, thrive, and feel supported every day!
The Faltischek Family Denise, Kenneth, Ava ’24 and Lily ’26
CELEBRATING 111 YEARS 1914 - 2025
The Fishkind Family & Standard Tinsmith Supply proudly celebrate 111 years of success throughout four generations. We wish all of the faculty, staff, and students at Portledge continued success in the future!
Congratulations to Simon Owen-Williams and Portledge on the new Athletic and Wellness Center.
The Friedberg Family
Best wishes for a Successful Auction! Congratulations on the 60th Anniversary Celebration! The Guo Family, Peter, Kim, Dylan, Kayla and Kelsey
Thank you to our amazing teachers and faculty for your constant support and commitment. Your care, passion, and hard work make a lasting impact on our students and community every day!
The Heaphy Family
Thank you to the incredible faculty, staff, administrators, and community members who make Portledge such a wonderful place to grow, learn, and thrive. With Gratitude, The Jones Family
We are proud to support Portledge on its 60th Anniversary! Thank you to the faculty and staff for your dedication to our children. Best wishes for a memorable and successful celebration!
The Kasper Family
Thank you so much for your dedication and hard work. Our children are growing and thriving because of your support and care. We truly appreciate the love and encouragement you show every day. We are so grateful to be part of this wonderful school community.
The Lee Family Yong, Chloe, Joshua '27, Logan'29, and Mervin '30
Thank you, Portledge, for your dedication to excellence and for creating a supportive, nurturing environment. We’re grateful for the lasting impact you’ve had on our children’s lives.
The Marcos Family Luis, Claudia, and Chantal ’29
Thank you to the faculty for being such a kind, steady, and supportive presence throughout our family’s time at Portledge!
With Love, Michelle, Justin ‘90, Nolan ‘20, Tucker ‘23, and Brody ‘25
We are so grateful to our Faculty, Administration, Staff, and Board of Trustees for your tireless commitment and dedication to Portledge! A special thank you to Mona Sanveren for chairing this year’s Gala. Candace and Simon OwenWilliams
The Plunkett family extends a heartfelt thank you to the faculty and staff of Portledge School!
Thank you, Portledge, for your unwavering support and dedication. We're proud to be part of such a caring and inspiring community!
With Love, The Rotolo Family
Happy 60th Birthday, Portledge! A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated faculty and staff for another incredible year. Your unwavering support, passion, and commitment to learning enrich our Portledge family beyond measure.
The Sass Family Ari, Jamie, Mazzy, Micah ‘28, Xander ’29 and Vienna ‘32
The Schamis Family Supports Portledge School
The Schamis Family
Thank you, Portledge School, for providing a foundation built on knowledge, compassion, and growth. We are grateful for the lasting impact you make on our children every day.
The Song Family Celina, Andy ’29 and Amber ’29
Thank you to the faculty for a great year!
The Tu Family Akina, David, and Kennedy
Celebrating 60 Years of Excellence In Honor of Portledge School For six decades, Portledge School has been more than a place of learning — it has been a home, a foundation, and a beacon for generations of students supported by outstanding faculty and staff. Kindness has filled its hallways, creating a community that nurtures empathy and connection. Purpose has driven its mission, inspiring young minds to dream boldly and achieve meaningfully. Honor has shaped its traditions, guiding students to act with integrity and pride. Respect has defined its spirit, fostering a culture of inclusivity and mutual appreciation. As Portledge School marks its 60th year, we celebrate the past, embrace the present, and look ahead with hope and gratitude — knowing that these pillars will continue to shape the leaders of tomorrow. Congratulations on 60 remarkable years! With Love,
The Wilson Family
Thank you to Portledge for your continued commitment to shaping our children’s futures. We’re grateful for the care and guidance you provide every step of the way.
Sarah Hou, Jun Yan, Owen ’31 and Thea ’35
A heartfelt thank you to the wonderful Portledge faculty and staff for your kindness, dedication, and support.
Love, William Yarian & Family
We’re truly grateful for Portledge’s dedication to nurturing our children’s growth, both academically and personally. Thank you for creating an environment where they can thrive!
Lucy Zhou, Jianmin Xu Patrick ’28 and Eric ’30
to
Thank you to the incredibly dedicated Portledge Faculty & Staff for their unwavering support throughout the years.
With love and appreciation, The Zografos Family
A P O L L O J E T S & T H E PA L A G O N I A F A M I LY
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JW Michaels & Co. and the Wachtel Family want to thank the Portledge Faculty and Staff.
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Located in the heart of Manhattan, the Law Offices of Clifford A. Meirowitz, PLLC, has been providing top quality legal advice and representation regarding estate planning, wills, trusts, planning for people with disabilities, guardianship, probate, estate administration and related litigation for more than thirty years. At the Law Offices of Clifford A. Meirowitz, we recognize the profound significance of personalized attention, particularly in matters as intricate and emotionally charged as elder law and estate planning. We strive to maintain the dignity, independence, and wellbeing of our clients and respond to them quickly with the consideration and respect they deserve. Since its founding by Clifford A. Meirowitz in 1993, the firm has become a leader in the field due to Mr. Meirowitz’s seasoned insight and our staff’s diligent attention to our clients and their details. What sets our firm apart is our ability to craft creative strategies and solutions for individuals from all walks of life – whether our clients are seeking to safeguard their assets for loved ones or preserve their life savings to ensure their own care. Don't leave your family's future to chance. Contact the Law Offices of Clifford A. Meirowitz to schedule a consultation and take proactive steps toward securing the legacy you've worked so hard to build: Law Offices of Clifford A. Meirowitz, PLLC 450 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1908 New York, New York 10123 (212) 764-1261 www.meirowitzlaw.com
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CELEBRATING
60 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
We are honored to support Portledge’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation and leadership, and look forward to many more years of success.
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97 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE...
Mack Security is proud to support Portledge School! Wishing everyone a successful auction!
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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE PORTLEDGE SCHOOL
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NORTH BAY CADILLAC GMC & THE WEIDINGER FAMILY SUPPORT PORTLEDGE SCHOOL
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LAND ROVER FREEPORT & THE WEIDINGER FAMILY SUPPORT PORTLEDGE SCHOOL
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