Summer 2025 Journal

PRINCETON DAY SCHOOL SUMMER 2025 FINDING OUR THREAD

Summer 2025

Volume 62, No. 2

EDITOR

Deanna Harkel P’38

DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS

Ashley Stenger

ART DIRECTOR

Kelly Koching

ILLUSTRATOR

Natalie Nguyen

DESIGNERS

Sarah Oskay

Eunice Woo

CONTRIBUTOR

Jana F. Brown

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Thatcher Cook P’35

Cameron Dunbar ’09

Kelly Koching

Andrew Lee P’37

Matt Pilsner

Daniel Torres Jr. P’38

Eunice Woo

ABOUT THE COVER

Academic Dean Caroline Lee is helping create classrooms where deep learning thrives

extraordinary journey of Christopher Reeve ’70: actor, athlete, advocate, and hero

This cover illustration by designer Natalie Nguyen draws inspiration from our feature story, “Finding Our Thread.” The artwork brings Princeton Day School’s five core values to life as woven emblems, symbolizing the threads that connect our past, present, and future. Humanity sits at the top, flanked by Creativity and Intellect on the left, with Joy and Stewardship on the right. These values, together with our revised mission and vision, were shaped by a team of community members during the 2024–2025 school year as part of the first phase of our strategic planning process. This initiative also reintroduced the Miss Fine’s School motto, Semper Luceat (Always Shine). Learn more on page 12.

pds.org/journal

The Journal is published twice annually by the PDS Office of Marketing and Communications. Email editor@pds.org with comments, questions, or ideas for future stories. Comments are subject to editing for clarity and length.

DEAR PRINCETON DAY SCHOOL COMMUNITY,

As this milestone year draws to a close, I find myself filled with gratitude and wonder at the journey we have shared together. What began as a celebration of our rich heritage — 125 years of Miss Fine’s School and a century of Princeton Country Day — has transformed into a profound opportunity to shape our future with intention and purpose.

Throughout this year, we have honored our past while actively engaging in the important work of redefining who we are and who we aspire to become. The strategic planning process has been truly inspiring, bringing together voices from across our community and across decades to refine our mission, vision, and values. As you’ll read in the pages ahead, this collaborative effort has yielded a framework that will guide our school for years to come.

Now, as we transition from this first phase to imagining what comes next, I am tremendously energized by what lies ahead. In the coming months, we will move from aspiration to action, translating these guiding principles into bold initiatives that enhance learning, deepen belonging, and support every student’s growth. This is where our vision becomes reality — in classrooms, studios, labs,

and fields, in the connections between people, and in the systems we design to help our school thrive.

With the new academic year on the horizon, I am filled with optimism and determination. The work ahead will ask us to be courageous and creative, to think expansively and act decisively, all qualities that have long defined the PDS community. I have every confidence that, together, we will rise to meet the moment and build something extraordinary.

Thank you for your trust, your ideas, and your partnership in this important work. It is a privilege to lead this vibrant and forward-looking school, and I look forward to all we will continue to build together.

With deep appreciation,

Head of School

REFLECTIONS FROM THE COMMUNITY

When we created the anniversary edition of the Journal, we hoped to meaningfully honor the legacy of our founding institutions. What we didn’t expect was the outpouring of responses — letters, emails, and phone calls filled with personal memories, thoughtful corrections, and kind words. You reminded us that our history lives not just in archives, but in the stories carried forward by this community.

Many of you helped identify missing names, added valuable context, and brought deeper meaning to moments we could only begin to capture. In this issue, we share a few of these reflections that enrich our understanding and help keep these legacies alive.

Thank you for helping us tell our story.

Director of Publications

INTERGENERATIONAL APPEAL

Amazing work with the Journal. Even my 11-year-old son was impressed: ‘Dad, what’s this? It’s really cool and old looking!’

– Scott Bertoli, Director of Middle School Athletics

HISTORY

COMES ALIVE

This issue made me feel like I was in a different time. I have never seen something like that in the 18 years I’ve worked at PDS.

– Liseth Rodas, Flik Food Service

A MISSED SPOTLIGHT

I am sure you are getting many, many emails raving about the special anniversary edition of the PDS Journal. I wanted to add my accolades. It is truly well done. My only comment is that when mentioning As You Like It at the 1925 spot in the timeline, I was definitely disappointed that the PAP’s Fall 2000 production of AYLI was omitted.

– Aviva Perlman Fintz ’02

Editor’s Note: Thank you for helping us maintain the completeness of our theatrical history. We’ll be sure the 2000 production is added to our digital archives.

A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

The Journal landed in my mailbox yesterday and even after having had a sneak preview, I was unprepared for the impact of the piece — it’s fabulous! You all deserve to take a bow for a truly imaginative and captivating publication. You managed to bring 125 years of history to life in such a wonderfully caring and comprehensive way, I’m sure alumni from all three schools will feel honored and celebrated. It’s visually exciting and chock full of fascinating information that should provide an education for all constituencies.

– Linda Maxwell Stefanelli MFS’62

Editor’s Note: Linda is being modest. What she didn’t mention is that we called her nonstop during production — and she kept picking up. Thank you, Linda, for being the true chronicler of PDS, and for your heart of gold.

FROM THESE ROOTS

Having been an employee, an alum, and in the development office when we put out the book “From These Roots,” it was quite something to see this jump to life with even more photos than we were able to unearth in the early ’90s. Really fun to check out.

– Pete Buck ’77 P’04 ’08 ’09

THE COMMONS

SNIPPETS AND STORIES FROM THE GREAT ROAD AND BEYOND

STAGE PRESENCE

Princeton Day School’s “Alice by Heart” shined at the Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards, which recognize outstanding achievement in high school theater across more than 125 schools in over 20 New Jersey counties. The production earned honors for Emma Salas ’27 and Jonas Hinsdale ’25 (Leading Performances), Stan Cahill (Direction), plus Honorable Mentions for Overall Production and Vocal Direction. Sahana Karthik ’30 and Michael Berry ’27 received Student Achievement Awards for their exceptional contributions. Bravo to the entire cast and crew on this extraordinary achievement!

Emma Salas ’27 performing in “Alice by Heart”

LISTEN UP

PDS launches a podcast with purpose and personality

Princeton Day School’s new podcast series, “PDS Perspectives,” offers an organic glimpse into school life beyond what prospective families might experience during a campus visit. Julie Cucchi P’21 ’23, director of admission and financial aid and host of the podcast, shared insights about this innovative approach to showcasing the PDS experience.

“We wanted to reach a broader audience and give people a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the PDS experience from a variety of voices,” Cucchi explains. For prospective families unable to visit or seeking deeper insights, the podcast provides an invaluable window into the school’s programs and culture. “The best way to get to know PDS is to come for a visit, but that’s not always possible,” Cucchi notes. “The podcast helps listeners envision themselves as part of our community, and it’s also a fun way for alumni to reconnect with their school and for current families to gain deeper insights into campus life.”

Cucchi admits her role came with a touch of good-natured coercion. “I think the term is ‘voluntold,’” she laughs. “Our communications team made it seem like they were asking me to be the host. Meanwhile, the die was cast.”

For first-time listeners, Cucchi recommends “Navigating the Application Process” and “Heart of a Panther.” She smiles recalling an unexpected reference to the Pre-K class pet in the latter episode. “What makes this podcast special is the authenticity that comes through in every episode,” Cucchi reflects. “Our dedication to students, the passion of our faculty, the vibrant community we’ve built. Those are things you can’t fully capture in a brochure.”

LIVING HISTORY

An

immersive gallery exhibition brings PDS history to life

The Anne Reid ’72 Gallery came alive this spring with a special exhibition honoring Princeton Country Day School’s centennial and Miss Fine’s School’s quasquicentennial anniversaries. Curated by communications and advancement colleagues Ashley Stenger and Amy Gallo ’03 P’32 ’35, alongside gallery director Gwen Shockey ’06, “Roots of Excellence” featured artifacts that chronicled the evolution of the two institutions that merged to form Princeton Day School in 1965.

“We wanted to make the exhibit as immersive as possible,” explains Stenger. Visitors engaged directly with history by flipping through student publications, perusing documents atop Miss Fine’s actual desk, and viewing footage from a 1932 May Day celebration.

“Supporting Ashley and Amy in the curation and installation of this important exhibition was such an honor,” said Shockey. “I learned so much history about my alma mater. It’s exciting for our student body to have access to our archive and to know how ahead of their time Miss Fine’s and Princeton Country Day were.”

“This exhibit gives our community a glimpse into Princeton Day School’s roots and the lasting influence of Miss Fine’s and Princeton Country Day,” notes Gallo. “Whether it’s studying in Shepherd Commons, playing on Smoyer Field, or cheering on Blue and White Day, students experience that legacy daily. These moments remind us that we’re part of a story that began long before us.”

The Roots of Excellence exhibition in the Anne Reid ’72 Gallery

RESPECTFULLY SPEAKING

PDS leads educators in a day of dialogue, insight, and civil discourse

Princeton Day School, in partnership with the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools, welcomed over 60 educators from 22 independent schools across the state for the first annual symposium on civil discourse in late April, establishing the school as a center for advancing respectful dialogue in educational settings. The event featured expert presentations and workshops focused on cultivating intellectual humility and curiosity. Breakout sessions were organized around three central themes: “Belonging,” “Instructional Strategies,” and “SocialEmotional Learning.” One such session included “Emotional Regulation: Essentials in Civil Discourse,” led by members of the PDS student services team, and a presentation by Middle School

faculty member Jonathan Martin. Educator and expert Emily Sclafani delivered the keynote address, “Why Civil Discourse Matters: The Power of Moral Humility in Dangerously Polarized Times,” drawing on her experience in independent schools.

“Learning to speak — and truly listen — to one another across ideological differences feels risky. But we are wellpositioned as mission-driven, intentional communities of care to build the kind of learning environments where empathetic dialogue and constructive discourse can flourish,” says Sclafani. “Listening with curiosity is essential to this process.”

“The challenges of teaching civil discourse transcend individual schools and require collective wisdom,” notes Matt Trowbridge ’98, director of civil discourse

at PDS. “By bringing together educators who are navigating similar challenges, we create opportunities for meaningful professional development.” Trowbridge, along with faculty colleagues Stefanie Santangelo, Allison Silverman, and Lauren Ledley, orchestrated the program after receiving the prestigious David C. Bogle Award for the Pursuit of Teaching Excellence in 2024 for their work developing PDS’ institution-wide civil discourse initiative.

Looking ahead, PDS is committed to making this symposium an annual event with plans already underway for next year’s gathering of educators dedicated to fostering civil discourse in educational communities.

Keynote speaker Emily Sclafani presents to educators

TWICE THE GLORY

Panthers sprint and skate to historic state championships

Princeton Day School etched its name in the record books twice this year as Panther athletes dominated both the cross country course and the ice rink, bringing home unprecedented state titles in two distinctly different arenas.

The varsity boys cross country team, under Coach Mike Mazzei’s guidance, made history in the fall by capturing the school’s first NJSIAA Non-Public B state championship, following their first Prep B title in 15 years. Meanwhile, the girls varsity ice hockey team, led by Jamie Davis and Jade Meier, who were recently named NJ.com’s 2024-25 Girls Ice Hockey Coaches of the Year, claimed their own state championship for the first time in program history with a commanding performance at the Prudential Center in early March.

For the cross-country team, redemption fueled their historic run. “Losing the Prep Championships by just one point the year prior fueled our determination,” reflects sophomore Edward Letko ’27. Their preparation was methodical and relentless. “We built the necessary

mileage base and conducted multiple weekly workouts targeting both speed and endurance,” he explains.

The hockey program’s triumph followed a similar narrative of perseverance.

“The biggest factors were effort and determination,” noted Coach Meier. “Our small but mighty team stepped up in ways they likely didn’t anticipate.”

Both championship squads credited their success to disciplined approaches. While cross-country athletes logged countless training miles, hockey goaltender Kelly Stevens ’26 emphasized the importance of team culture. “Consistently being punctual, mentally prepared, and ready to work transformed our team’s attitude,” she said.

The emotional rewards proved immense for both teams. “It was absolutely euphoric,” recalled Letko.

Stevens shared parallel sentiments from the ice. “Winning at the Prudential Center felt incredible. I’ve dreamed of playing in that arena since I was a child.”

“Winning state championships in cross country and ice hockey this year, along with girls soccer in 2023 and girls lacrosse in 2022, is a remarkable accomplishment,” says Director of Athletics Katie Fay. “To see our teams succeed across such a wide range of sports speaks to the strength of our program and the dedication of our student-athletes and coaches. These championships are a testament to their hard work, resilience, and commitment to shared goals.”

The 2025 girls varsity ice hockey team celebrates their historic win at the Prudential Center (photo courtesty of NJ.com)

EXPOSURE

Thatcher Cook’s photography earns global recognition in Tokyo

Photography teacher Thatcher Cook P’35 recently celebrated a career milestone with his exhibition “Pairings” at Tokyo’s prestigious Gallery Kaido, a venue known for showcasing Japan’s photographic luminaries.

The exhibition featured 22 photographs thoughtfully curated for an international audience while preserving Cook’s distinctive artistic vision. “The photos are paired based on the mood they evoke,” Cook explains. One striking juxtaposition: a bird taking flight from a rooftop in Darjeeling, alongside tea pluckers from the same region.

Cook’s connection to Japan began six years ago through a PDS grant. During this visit, he formed a friendship with renowned photographer Koji Onaka, whose ties to the Kaido gallery collective ultimately led to this exhibition opportunity.

For Cook, the reception was profoundly affirming. “It was one of the most wonderful experiences of my professional career,” he shares. “The Japanese audience totally got it. It was so validating.”

Adding special significance to the event was the presence of Jerry Hirniak, former Upper School visual arts teacher and a

beloved member of the PDS community. Cook credited Hirniak with being “instrumental in sequencing and pairing the images,” describing his participation as “a huge honor” and acknowledging his role as a close friend and a mentor.

Cook’s international recognition represents not just a personal artistic achievement but also exemplifies the caliber of working artists who comprise PDS’ faculty. “Being an active photographer shapes how I teach,” he notes. “I’m eager to share these experiences with my students.”

Photographs from Cook’s exhibition at Gallery Kaido

FINDING EVEREST

Cason Crane ’11 returns to challenge students to climb their own summits

After scaling the highest peaks on all seven continents, mountaineer Cason Crane ’11 returned to where it all began. “It was amazing to be at PDS again,” Crane reflects. “This was such a formative place for me. It was very moving.”

As an Imagine the Possibilities speaker, Crane transformed his journey from PDS student to global mountaineer into a powerful message of self-discovery. He tailored his presentations, sharing mountaineering adventures with Lower and Middle School students while engaging Upper School students in conversations about growing up at PDS as a gay student.

In 2013, Crane became the first openly gay mountaineer to complete the Seven Summits challenge, carrying the Pride flag to the highest peak on each continent while raising funds and awareness for The Trevor Project.

His central message encouraged students to identify “What’s your Everest?” — a metaphor to help young people discover meaningful personal challenges. “Sometimes speaking to just a few kids who may not feel like anyone understands them is just as important as resonating with everyone,” Crane observes.

“When I look back at my PDS experience, those ITP presentations were where some of the seeds of my own dreams were planted. I hope students know they can be anything they want to be, too.”

WORLDWISE

Students immerse themselves in global learning from the Bahamas to Paris

Last March, Princeton Day School students stepped beyond sightseeing and into immersive experiences that brought environmental and cultural lessons to life. Two transformative journeys — one to the Bahamas and one to France — offered firsthand insights into how history, sustainability and daily life shape communities around the world.

On Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, students partnered with local conservationists at The Island School, exploring how ecological challenges are addressed through innovation and collaboration. Classroom concepts came to life as they harvested sustainable food, studied off-grid systems and examined water conservation in action.

“The recycled water system made the biggest impression on me,” said Amelia Nemeth ’26. “Water is a precious resource, and not everyone has access to it.”

Across the Atlantic, students explored the country’s cultural heritage under the guidance of French teacher Marjorie Bartlet. The trip began in Normandy with visits to D-Day memorials and continued through Mont-Saint-Michel and Paris. Highlights included the Musée d’Orsay, a baguette-making class and visits to iconic landmarks.

“Standing in front of Degas’ ‘Little Dancer of Fourteen Years’ was unbelievable,” said Jiayi Li, Class of 2027. A favorite memory came unexpectedly: an impromptu street dance party with a choreographer from the Opéra Garnier.

Above: Students prepare for their diving test at The Island School

Left: Students visit Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy

Cason Crane ’11 presents to Lower School students during Imagine the Possibilities

5 QUESTIONS WITH LAUREN LEDLEY

As director of academic technology and institutional research at PDS, Lauren Ledley has spent the past few years helping lead one of education’s biggest questions: how to navigate artificial intelligence in ways that are thoughtful, ethical, and joyful. We caught up with Lauren to talk AI myths, student curiosity, and what it means to guide a school through a fast-moving shift.

Let’s start with the question you hear all the time: “Can I use ChatGPT for this?” Absolutely. It’s a great starting point because it sparks conversations about learning, intention, process, and integrity. My answer is usually, “Maybe! Let’s figure out if it’s the right tool for your goal.” That’s what we’re teaching: discernment. We want students to see AI not as a shortcut, but as part of a thoughtful learning process.

So, you’re not trying to ban AI from classrooms?

Not at all. We help students understand when to use AI safely, ethically, and effectively. We design experiences that invite them into a productive struggle that builds lasting insight. They need to know when effort is essential so they don’t short-circuit their learning. Sometimes AI helps shape an argument; other times, growth comes from wrestling with an idea solo. What matters is that students reflect on how learning happens and whether AI helps or hinders that process. That reflection is where the magic happens.

What does this look like across different divisions?

It’s so fun to see. In the Lower School, students explore how machines “think” through storytelling and play, learning to navigate technology safely. In the Middle School, they program AI-powered robots, improve writing with both teacher and chatbot feedback, or study AI bias in the news. In Upper School, students analyze classical texts, co-create arguments, or critique algorithm-generated data. Across all grades, the message is the same: Humans lead, machines assist.

What excites you most about AI in education right now?

The chance to rethink what it means to learn. This isn’t just about tech, it’s about renewing our commitment to intellectual vitality and questioning what it means to be human in the age of intelligent machines. Our teachers design human-centered assignments not because they exclude tools, but because they require meaning-making, ethical reasoning, and creativity. That’s thrilling. We’re preparing students for a future that doesn’t yet exist, and doing it with integrity.

Final thoughts for families and alumni wondering, “What can I do?”

Stay curious. Ask your student how they’re using AI and what they’re learning. Keep an eye out for family workshops. And if you work in tech or AI, reach out — we’d love for you to speak with our students. This is a whole-community moment. We’re figuring it out together, which is just how we like it at PDS.

Visit pds.org/ai to explore how our approach to AI is shaping teaching and learning at PDS.

CAMPUS

CLOSE-UPS

THINK YOU KNOW EVERY NOOK AND CRANNY OF OUR CAMPUS?

Put your powers of observation to the test with these mysterious macro shots! Each photo features a close-up of places and spaces across campus. Flip the page to see if your guesses were right!

Chicken Coop

Middle School Boulevard

Lower School Hallway

G. Head of School’s Office H. Miss Fine’s Portrait in Colross I. Upper School Gym

A SHARED JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY, PURPOSE, AND THE STORY WE’RE STILL WRITING

“I’M THE ARTIFACT!” declared Sandy Bing H’87 P’81 ’84, former interim head of school, during an October 2024 listening salon in the historic Colross building at the entrance to campus. While most others shared physical objects representing their connections to PDS, Bing simply gestured to himself, his decades of experience and deep ties embodying the school’s living history. His statement, delivered with characteristic humility and met with warm laughter, revealed something profound — at PDS, the connections forged between people have always been the school’s most enduring legacy. This gathering of the 14-member mission, vision, and values (MVV) design team, joined by longtime leaders and community pillars, marked the beginning of a six-month journey of listening, reflection, and discovery. The goal: to refresh the school’s guiding principles while laying the groundwork for broader strategic planning.

A PATTERN EMERGES

When Head of School Kelley NicholsonFlynn P’26 assembled the MVV design team, she knew it wouldn’t be a simple exercise in wordsmithing. The aim was to distill the essence of an institution with a rich history and identify the threads that connect generations of students, faculty, and families.

“This process wasn’t about creating something new,” Nicholson-Flynn explains. “It was about listening deeply to our community. We examined our history carefully. We sought language that captures what has always made PDS so extraordinary. These statements affirm who we are and have always been.”

To guide the process, the school partnered with Leadership + Design, a nonprofit specializing in helping schools articulate identity and navigate change. The team began by looking back, anchoring their work in community memory.

At the listening salon, while Sandy Bing offered himself as a living artifact, others shared diverse representations of their PDS experience. Trustee Cindy Linville P’06 ’09 ’14 selected a sports jersey to illustrate the teamwork her daughters experienced through PDS athletics. Sterick Ivy ’87 spoke of his mother’s sacrifices and their lasting impact on his education. Former faculty member Susan Ferguson P’07 chose Colross itself, recalling her wedding on its historic grounds.

The stories shared revealed a remarkable consistency across generations. “Whether from the 1960s or the 2000s,” notes Teddy Brown ’08, director of Lower School admission, “alumni and longtime community members described the same powerful experiences: deep relationships with teachers who knew them as individuals, intellectual engagement that went far beyond textbooks, and a community where they felt both challenged and supported.”

This immersion in history grounded the team’s next steps. Rather than reinventing the school, they sought to articulate the enduring qualities that have defined it for decades.

OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES

MISSION

Princeton Day School cultivates intellectual vitality and strength of character within a community of compassion, shared responsibility, and play.

VISION

Empowering each student to act with wisdom and purpose.

WEAVING MEANING INTO LANGUAGE

With the past as a guide, the team turned to the present, observing campus life and conducting empathy interviews with students and employees to see PDS values in action.

“What makes PDS special are the small moments that often go unnoticed,” says Angharad Rebholz, Middle School dean and humanities teacher. “A thoughtful question, a shared laugh, the way students care for one another. Paying attention to those moments helped us see how they’re quietly woven into the fabric of our community.”

As the process progressed, the team incorporated “futurist thinking,” drawing on methodologies from the Institute for the Future and the World Economic Forum to consider how emerging trends, especially advances in technology and artificial intelligence, might reshape education. These conversations prompted

VALUES

Humanity, Creativity, Intellect, Joy, Stewardship

HUMANITY

We nurture the qualities that connect us and foster a sense of belonging: openness, empathy, respect, and kindness. Affirming each individual’s inherent dignity, we lead with integrity and a deep sense of what it means to be human.

CREATIVITY

We discover possibilities where others see limitations, finding insight in setbacks and approaching challenges with bold curiosity and resourcefulness. Through imagination, we inspire innovation.

INTELLECT

We practice inquiry, critical reasoning, and the essential art of learning how to learn. As teachers and students, we evolve our understanding through meaningful dialogue, building the habits of mind that sustain academic growth and an enduring love of discovery.

big questions: How might new tools transform teaching and learning? What human capacities should remain central in a digital age?

In these forward-looking dialogues, the team reaffirmed a core belief: education must balance intellectual vitality with strength of character, equipping students not only with knowledge but with the wisdom to use it ethically and purposefully.

From there, small groups began shaping early drafts of mission, vision, and values language. In their final working session, the team came together to refine the language further. Feedback from trustees, faculty, alumni, and families informed final revisions over the following weeks.

“We debated every word, filled walls with sticky notes, and kept asking ourselves: Does this feel true? Will it guide us?” recalls Deanna Harkel P’38, director of communications.

The five core values — Humanity, Creativity, Intellect, Joy, and Stewardship

“

We begin with HUMANITY , because everything starts with how we treat one another. CREATIVITY and INTELLECT capture how we think and learn. JOY speaks to the energy that fuels discovery. And STEWARDSHIP reminds us that knowledge carries responsibility to ourselves, to each other, and to the world.

— emerged naturally. “The sequence itself tells a story,” explains Renée Price, head of the Middle School. “We begin with Humanity, because everything starts with how we treat one another. Creativity and Intellect capture how we think and learn. Joy speaks to the energy that fuels discovery. And Stewardship reminds us that knowledge carries responsibility to ourselves, to each other, and to the world.”

For Head of Lower School Sandy Wang, one word in the mission stood out. “The inclusion of play was especially vital,” she notes. “Play isn’t just a break from learning,

it’s fundamental to it. When students approach challenges with curiosity and creativity, their engagement deepens. That’s true from Pre-K through grade 12 and beyond.”

The final touch was reviving the motto Semper Luceat, or ‘Always Shine.’

“Bringing back this historic phrase from Miss Fine’s School was a powerful choice,” says Nicholson-Flynn. “It bridges over a century of tradition and speaks to the continuous cycle of teaching and learning, leading and supporting.”

JOY

We embrace the energy of purposeful connection and exploration. In moments of growth, wonder, and delight, learning becomes a source of lasting inspiration and fulfillment.

STEWARDSHIP

We thrive on the shared knowledge that we are all connected to each other, across communities, and throughout the natural world. By learning from history, making intentional choices, and taking deliberate action, we shape both today and tomorrow.

MOTTO

Semper Luceat, or Always Shine, speaks to the shared power of our community. Some days, we guide the way forward; other times, we draw strength from the light around us. This cycle of giving and receiving, of teaching and learning, leading and supporting, sustains our collective spirit.

“The

mission, vision, and values give us our WHY. Strategic planning will help us determine the WHAT and HOW, the specific pathways we’ll take to BRING THESE PRINCIPLES

TO LIFE in everything we do.

LIVING OUR COLLECTIVE STORY

These principles express what has quietly shaped Princeton Day School over generations, revealed daily in classrooms, conversations, and the rhythms of school life.

In the Lower School, Sarah Thompson ’84 sees Humanity come alive through the Responsive Classroom approach, where students learn to express themselves authentically while respecting the voices of others. In Middle School, Dean Nicole Mangino witnesses Joy during the eighth-grade trip to Echo Hill, where students step outside their comfort zones and build lasting friendships. In the Upper School, English Department

Chair Karen Latham teaches Stewardship through her (Hi)story in Film and Literature elective, where students honor Vietnam War veterans by researching and preserving their stories.

As PDS continues to evolve, the mission, vision, and values will remain a touchstone, guiding decisions and strengthening the community’s shared purpose.

“This isn’t an endpoint but a beginning,” says Nicholson-Flynn. “An invitation for each of us to help write the next chapter of Princeton Day School’s story.”

That next chapter is already taking shape. With the MVV framework firmly in place, the school is now focused on the second half of its comprehensive strategic planning process, set to run through

January 2026. This collaborative effort will translate guiding principles into concrete initiatives and measurable goals that will shape PDS for years to come.

“The mission, vision, and values give us our why,” explains Nicholson-Flynn. “Strategic planning will help us determine the what and how, the specific pathways we’ll take to bring these principles to life in everything we do.”

Or, as Chief Information Officer Jon Ostendorf P’17 put it at the start of the process: “You can add without subtracting.” In those five words lies the essence of Princeton Day School’s approach — honoring its past while embracing its future, and inviting the entire community to join in the journey. Semper Luceat.

MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES DESIGN TEAM

Kelley Nicholson-Flynn P’26, Head of School

Beth Geter-Douglass ’82 P’20, Trustee

Amanda Maher P’28 ’30 ’34, Trustee

Teddy Brown ’08, Director of Lower School Admission

Deanna Harkel P’38, Director of Communications

Jon Ostendorf P’17, Chief Information Officer

Renée C. Price P’27 ’29, Head of Middle School, Assistant Head of School

Tara Quigley P’12 ’14, MS Technology Coordinator and Humanities Faculty

Angharad Rebholz, MS Dean and Humanities Faculty

Stefanie Santangelo, Chair of Upper School History

Ashley Stenger, Director of Publications

Lisa Surace P’22 ’24, Associate Head of School

Sandy Wang, Head of Lower School

A Community of Practice

Reimagining teaching and learning at PDS

In a fourth-grade classroom, students huddle in small groups, debating how to approach a complex math problem.

Caroline Lee, Princeton Day School’s new academic dean, watches intently — not the teacher, but the students themselves.

“When I’m in a classroom, I’m looking for evidence of learning in the students’ interactions, in their questions, in their faces,” Lee explains. “That moment when confusion transforms into understanding, that’s what I’m searching for.”

This focus on how students learn, not just what they learn, defines Lee’s role at PDS and her influence on the school’s evolving educational approach. Her work is deeply connected to the school’s mission — to cultivate intellectual vitality and strength of character within a community of compassion, shared responsibility, and play — and embodying it in daily classroom practice.

“Our mission and guiding principles articulate what we’ve always valued at PDS,” she notes. “My role is to now help translate that into meaningful learning experiences.”

BRIDGING THEORY, PRACTICE, AND ACTIVE LEARNING

Lee brings substantial academic credentials to her position, holding bachelor’s degrees in English and art history from Rutgers University and master’s degrees from Penn State and the University of Pennsylvania in English and creative writing. Despite her administrative duties, she advises and teaches ninth-grade English. “I love being an educator. Being in the classroom keeps me grounded,” she says. “I can’t effectively support teachers if I’m not experiencing the joys and challenges of teaching myself.”

At PDS, Lee has also played a pivotal role in the Penn Fellows program, an innovative partnership with the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education that supports aspiring educators in independent day schools. The two-year fellowship develops skills in curriculum development and pedagogy, allowing early career teachers to develop their authentic voices while learning alongside experienced mentors.

Beyond PDS, Lee co-directs FORGE, a professional development initiative through the Klingenstein Center at Columbia University that supports school leaders worldwide in enacting institutional change. “FORGE is a space to grapple with the work of school transformation, collaborate deeply, and engage in selfreflection,” she explains.

These experiences directly inform her work at PDS, where she bridges research and classroom practice. “The real laboratory is right here in our classrooms,” she says. “The challenges and innovations I see in global school leadership often mirror the work we’re doing at PDS, helping us stay at the forefront of educational research.”

In particular, Lee is especially interested in helping teachers incorporate the science of learning into their practice. “Being in conversation with cognitive science and educational psychology helps us better understand how we might design our lessons, given what we now know about learning, memory and retrieval, and cognitive load,” she says.

Through regular classroom visits and

ongoing collaboration with department chairs, grade levels, and subject teams, Lee has developed insights into how learning unfolds over time.

“When you spend a lot of time in classrooms, especially with older students, you almost take for granted that they know how to read or even how to sit in a chair,” she says. “In doing this work, I’ve really come to appreciate that at PDS, educators have the opportunity to watch a Pre-K student grow all the way through their senior year. That’s 14 years to see a student cultivate their learning identity. The mindsets, mental models, and skills they develop early on provide a foundation for how they approach learning later.”

“As a Lower School teacher, I see our youngest learners developing not just skills, but a sense of themselves as thinkers,” says Daniel Cohen, a fourth-grade classroom teacher. “We focus on wonder, questions, and persistence, and those early habits often echo years later. It’s a privilege to be part of that long arc of growth.”

Rather than focusing solely on gradelevel benchmarks, Lee looks at overarching elements of strong pedagogy — prior

knowledge, inquiry, curiosity, and learning how to learn.

In a recent Lower School computer science class, for example, Lee observed students acting as creators and storytellers.

“The teacher wasn’t simply talking ‘at them,’” Lee explains. “She was guiding students through a problemsolving process and prototyping. She encouraged experimentation, feedback, and collaboration. That same approach might look different in the Middle School STEAM lab, but the underlying commitment to curiosity and discovery remains consistent.”

Lee particularly emphasizes metacognitive skills, which she describes as “thinking about your thinking.” She explains, “Do I know why I know what I know? Do I know what to do when I don’t know what to do? What might I need to unlearn? How might I relate this to other things I’ve learned?”

This approach helps students reflect on their process and think critically about what it means to learn deeply and with intention.

Central to Lee’s philosophy is a

Caroline Lee visits with a Lower School student

“community of practice,” where teachers collaborate, learn from one another, and continuously refine their methods. She encourages instructional approaches that support active learning, from student-led discussions and collaborative projects to experiments, creative processes, and peer feedback.

“What matters is that students engage directly with the material and think deeply about it,” Lee says. “The most effective environments challenge students while providing the right support to help them stretch beyond their comfort zones. With productive struggle comes learning and discovery, and sometimes that learning is uncomfortable. But we’re cultivating cognitive patience and resilience.”

“There’s a spirit of shared learning here,” says Jonah Edwards, a Middle School humanities teacher. “We are always

flourish in the world and become selfactualized as people. We want them to be good community members who have selflove and compassion and use education to cultivate these values.”

Lee also encourages the community to rethink traditional assessments. “Do we believe that learning only happens in a classroom during a specific 50-minute period? Some of the deeper learning experiences are happening outside the classroom in places like theater productions, clubs, and co-curriculars.”

She looks for moments when students make connections, ask “beautiful questions,” and take ownership of their learning. “Those are the moments that signal real, lasting understanding and transformation. Students become intrinsically motivated and see relevance and purpose in the work they’re doing.

While acknowledging that educational change takes time, Lee sees significant potential in helping students develop transferable skills and knowledge for future success.

“Our educators are facilitators of learning; they are designers, engineers, coaches,” Lee says. “When the focus is on student-centered, active learning, our educators have the opportunity to choose the method that best fits their classroom. We are learning how to engage feedback from both colleagues and students and rely on data to better understand our practice. I’m in constant amazement at the work happening here.”

As PDS moves forward with strategic planning, Lee’s methodical approach continues to yield insights. Her classroom observations, combined with her commitment to teacher collaboration,

The most powerful learning happens when students are active participants — asking questions, making connections, and taking ownership. That’s when school becomes more than a place. It becomes a practice of becoming.

reflecting on how to engage students more deeply, trying new strategies, learning from one another, and creating space for students to take ownership of their thinking.”

REDEFINING SUCCESS AND EVOLVING TOGETHER

Lee’s work spans both big-picture vision and curricular details. By mapping learning experiences across divisions, she identifies opportunities to deepen learning, address gaps, and support student growth. Her leadership centers on essential educational questions: What constitutes deep, enduring learning? What should graduates know and be able to do? How does our academic program align with our mission, vision, and values?

“There’s a purposefulness to learning that goes beyond ‘I got straight A’s,’” she explains. “We want to help students

Their learning becomes transcendent.”

Changes to PDS’ teaching approach under Lee’s leadership are intentionally gradual and thoughtful. Classroom observations now foster professional dialogue as well as evaluation. Faculty inquiry groups explore specific pedagogical questions, and expert workshops support continuous growth. Lee models this feedback approach herself, inviting colleagues to observe her own classes and offer insights.

“I recently asked our Middle School Penn Fellow Jared Leveson ’18 to observe one of my Upper School classes,” she says. “His observations helped me refine my practice and develop practical strategies, and that’s the kind of professional learning culture we want to nurture at PDS. We are all learning from one another, regardless of division or years of teaching. Everyone has insight to offer.”

are creating a foundation for educational excellence that transcends traditional metrics.

“What excites me most is seeing the ripple effects of this work,” Lee reflects. “Something remarkable happens when teachers feel empowered to be learners. They are more inclined to innovate, and students are more motivated to take ownership of their learning. The classroom becomes a place of co-construction, discovery, and growth.”

Through her blend of academic leadership and hands-on teaching, Lee is helping to build an educational community where students don’t just accumulate knowledge — they develop the curiosity, creativity, resilience, and critical thinking to use and construct that knowledge meaningfully in an ever-changing world. And that, perhaps, is the most important lesson of all.

TEACHING THE CRAFT

Mentoring the next generation of independent school educators

In 2016, Princeton Day School was honored to be among the first schools invited by the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education to join a pioneering teacher preparation initiative. As a founding partner in the Independent School Teaching Residency program for day schools, PDS helped launch a model that combines rigorous academic study with immersive classroom experience.

Eight years later, the program remains a cornerstone of the school’s commitment to nurturing great teaching. Through this two-year residency, early-career educators known as Penn Fellows pursue a master’s degree from Penn GSE while teaching full time, receiving close mentorship, and engaging fully in school life.

This year, two fellows have made PDS their home: Middle School humanities teacher Jared Leveson ’18 and Upper School science teacher Benjamin Share. Both are supported by experienced faculty mentors who offer guidance and perspective as they grow in their teaching practice. They follow in the footsteps of Sophia Scanlan and Elena Schomburg ’18, who completed their two-year fellowships at PDS in 2024.

For Leveson, returning to his alma mater has been both meaningful and full circle.

“The teachers I had at PDS inspired me to pursue this path, and it’s awesome to work and learn alongside them,” he says. “I often draw on my own experiences here

to connect with students. Hopefully, I can instill that same curiosity that PDS gave me into the students I teach.”

Share brings a passion for science and student-centered learning. “My favorite part of the program is that I get to bring the educational theories I’m learning at UPenn to my teaching here at PDS with the excellent support and guidance of my colleagues,” he says.

While the fellows program is currently co-directed by faculty members Caroline Lee and Charlie Alt, Upper School history teacher Andy Housiaux will join Lee in leading the program as Alt steps into the role of chair of the Science Department next fall.

“Our goal is to help these fellows become exceptional educators,” says Lee. “At the same time, we’re learning alongside and from them. That spirit of collaboration is essential.”

This summer, Leveson and Share will begin their inquiry projects, culminating in presentations at a spring symposium that brings together fellows and mentors to share insights and celebrate growth.

“The experience is designed to be collaborative and mutually enriching,” says Kim Collura, longtime chemistry teacher and faculty mentor. “While we offer support, the fellows bring fresh ideas and current research into our classrooms. That exchange benefits the entire faculty.”

Penn Fellows Jared Leveson ’18 (top) and Benjamin Share

BIOETHICS

New course challenges students to tackle science’s hardest questions

PDS students are confronting complex moral dilemmas of modern science from AI in healthcare to the ethics of animal research, grappling with questions that even leading scientists and philosophers continue to debate.

The innovative bioethics course, launched this year, emerged from a partnership between two veteran educators whose paths have crossed repeatedly over the past two decades: Head of School Dr. Kelley Nicholson-Flynn P’26 and newly appointed history teacher Andy Housiaux P’37. Nicholson-Flynn, who holds a doctorate in cell and developmental biology, joined PDS in 2023 after numerous leadership roles at The Lawrenceville School and Riverdale Country School (RCS). Housiaux brings 20 years of experience teaching at independent schools, including Trinity School and Phillips Academy (Andover),

where he chaired the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies and directed an interdisciplinary center for teaching and learning.

Nicholson-Flynn and Housiaux first met in 2010 when she was a teacher at the Klingenstein Summer Institute, and he was an early career fellow. Their paths crossed again later at RCS, and by 2021, they had teamed up with current PDS Academic Dean Caroline Lee to launch FORGE, a Klingenstein leadership program focused on institutional change. Their complementary backgrounds — Nicholson-Flynn’s scientific expertise and Housiaux’s philosophical training — create an ideal foundation for teaching bioethics, where moral questions intersect with cutting-edge science.

“Teaching bioethics is inherently collaborative,” noted Nicholson-Flynn.

“Our shared classroom models the kind of dialogue we hope to foster.”

The course creates space for challenging conversations through carefully structured discussions. Students are encouraged to first examine their own initial reactions to an ethical dilemma and then gradually consider philosophical frameworks, scientific evidence and real-world cases.

“We place an emphasis on building trust and establishing norms early in the semester,” explained Nicholson-Flynn. “Students learn to disagree respectfully and see that examining an issue from multiple angles actually strengthens their understanding.”

In practice, students dive into contemporary debates ranging from abortion to end-of-life decisions, examining each through multiple lenses. A class session spent exploring abortion, for instance, paired philosophical arguments with personal testimony when author and disability advocate Amy Julia Becker shared her journey as a mother of a child with Down syndrome. Her perspective complemented readings from philosopher Don Marquis’ “Why Abortion is Immoral,” Judith Jarvis Thomson’s “A Defense of Abortion,” and Dr. Willie Parker’s memoir about the balance of his religious beliefs with his work providing abortion services in the Deep South.

“Dr. Parker’s initial ethical reasoning was shaped by religious teachings,” observed Ariyah Lamin ’26 during class discussion. “But actually, there are many ways to interpret the Bible.”

“Religions are internally diverse,” Housiaux affirmed. “What’s the Christian belief on abortion? That’s not such a clearcut question.”

Just as religious perspectives illuminate ethical debates around abortion, practical applications reveal new layers of complexity. To help students understand

Dr. Kelley Nicholson-Flynn leads a discussion during a bioethics class

how ethical frameworks play out in the real world, Nicholson-Flynn invited Dr. Amrit Ray P’21 ’24 ’30, a current PDS parent whose career in pharmaceutical leadership put him at the forefront of critical medical ethics decisions. As a former executive at Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson, Ray challenged students to consider two pressing bioethical dilemmas that highlight how scientific progress often raises unexpected ethical questions that cross cultural and technological boundaries. “These are real situations I’ve dealt with, with real people, with life or death on the line,” he said.

The first centered on a fundamental question: What constitutes ethical consent for participation in medical research, particularly for experimental medicines?

“We live in a society based on consent,” offered Elizabeth Wang ’27, when Ray posed his first scenario about medical research ethics. But that Western framework, Ray explained, met unexpected hurdles during the 2014 West Africa Ebola epidemic, where village chiefs traditionally made medical decisions for entire communities, illustrating how scientific advancement must navigate diverse cultural values.

The discussion then turned to artificial intelligence, using healthcare as a lens to examine broader questions about AI ethics. While population-level data analysis showed promise, Ray cautioned that using AI for individual predictions raised fundamental questions about human judgment versus machine learning that apply across scientific fields.

“You’re facing questions that never existed in my generation,” he told the class.

“The challenge won’t just be whether we can use these technologies, but whether we should.”

Looking back on the semester, Nicholson-Flynn and Housiaux have seen remarkable growth in their students’ abilities to navigate complex ethical terrain. Nicholson-Flynn recalled a particular discussion about prenatal testing during which she watched students move from black-and-white positions to wrestling with layers of nuance. This evolution in thinking is particularly evident in their writing assignments, where students craft carefully reasoned position papers that draw from multiple disciplinary perspectives.

“We designed the writing assignments to mirror the progression of their analytical skills,” Housiaux explained. “Students begin with personal reflection essays, then

move to analysis papers that integrate scientific research with ethical frameworks, and culminate in a final paper where they must defend a position while thoughtfully addressing counterarguments. These assignments help students discover their own voice while learning to engage with different viewpoints.”

Nicholson-Flynn agreed. “It can be hard to share your opinion with peers and even harder to be challenged in your thinking,” she reflected. “But seeing your own views become more sophisticated as you engage with these issues — that’s what makes this course so powerful.”

“They’re learning that many questions in life don’t have simple answers,” Housiaux added. “And that’s precisely why we’re teaching it.”

Meet Real-Life Bioethicist Abby Cohen ’17

Abby Cohen ’17, M.A., HEC-C, is a clinical ethicist for the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System where she’s currently completing a two-year Health Professions Education Evaluation and Research (HPEER) advanced fellowship. Her expertise spans life-sustaining treatments, goals of care discussions as preventative care, translational ethics, and ethical conduct in quality improvement. Before her current role, Cohen built a diverse career path, serving as a research specialist for Phase I oncology clinical trials and as director of nutrition research for a marketing agency. She holds degrees in human nutrition and bioethics from Case Western Reserve University, along with a graduate certificate in public health. Cohen brought her academic journey full circle over the winter when she shared her professional insights with current PDS bioethics students.

Andrew Housiaux listens to dialogue during a bioethics class

Beyond Superman

Before he became Superman, Christopher Reeve ’70 was finding his voice on the Princeton Country Day School stage. His greatest role, however, came later — as a fierce advocate who transformed spinal cord research and championed disability rights. Now, over five decades after his graduation from Princeton Day School, a new documentary, “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story,” honors a life that redefined what it means to be a hero.

THE EARLY YEARS

At Princeton Country Day School (PCD), Reeve followed in the footsteps of his stepfather, Tristam Johnson PCD ’34, excelling academically while discovering his passion for the stage. Under the guidance of theater director Herbert McAneny, young Reeve found both mentor and champion.

“To a nine-year-old starting PCD, some teachers seemed a little formal and intimidating. But the acting headmaster was this soft-spoken older gentleman with a dry sense of humor,” Reeve recalled in a 1993 Journal tribute to McAneny.

With McAneny’s direction, Reeve’s early performances revealed versatility. In 1963, he earned particular praise for playing an elderly woman in “Witness for the Prosecution.” A student reviewer noted in a 1964 Junior Journal, “Chris Reeve was the most convincing...his heated argument brought applause from the audience.”

When Miss Fine’s School and PCD

merged in 1965 to form Princeton Day School, Reeve’s star continued to rise. He played Wally in PDS’ inaugural production of “Our Town,” later starring in productions including “Little Mary Sunshine” and “Watch on the Rhine.”

Even when illness prevented him from performing in “The Diary of Anne Frank,” he found purpose behind the scenes.

“When mononucleosis made me drop out of ‘The Diary of Anne Frank,’ Mr. Mac helped me through the disappointment of not being in one of the best school productions ever. Thanks to him, I ended up reasonably content, running sound effects,” said Reeve.

Beyond theater, Reeve immersed himself in school life. He served on student council in both Middle and Upper School, wrote for Cymbals, sang in the choir and Madrigals, led community service through Key Club, and presided over the Drama Club. He also made athletic history as one

of

family,

photographs

in this article offer a glimpse into the life and legacy

thanks to

for sharing these intimate family memories that help illustrate the remarkable journey of a Princeton Day School alumnus who transformed from stage performer to global icon to tireless advocate, leaving an enduring impact on both the arts and medical research. Above, Reeve is photographed in 1985 with his sailboat visible in the distance.

Courtesy

the Johnson

the personal

featured

of Christopher Reeve ’70. Special

Kevin Johnson ’81

of two goalies for the very first Princeton Day School varsity ice hockey team, helping lead the 1970 team to what many consider one of the school’s most successful seasons.

The team, which included Reeve and Tommy O’Connor ’71 in goal and standout Donald “Deebs” Young ’70, won the Milton-Nobles Tournament and defeated rival Lawrenceville twice. They finished with a 14-4-0 record and outscored opponents 80 to 27.

“Most of the guys at PDS, especially the ones who came from PCD, we were playing three sports a year,” Deebs says. “But not Chris. He only played hockey.”

“Chris was an important part of the team not because he was the world’s greatest athlete but because he loved the sport. At that point, we had been playing together since we were eight years old at Baker Rink every Saturday during their peewee hockey hours,” Deebs explains. “But he

loved being a goalie. He had amazing time management skills that made it possible for him to practice with us from four to six p.m., and then five minutes later, he was off to rehearsal. He made time for hockey because he loved it — it was one of his passions.”

Although Reeve would become known worldwide for his acting, he maintained a lifelong interest in sports. His eldest son, Matthew, notes in “Super/Man” that physical activity was central to their relationship. “Doing things with my dad, it was all about activity and action.”

While athletics played an important role, his performances on the PDS stage hinted at his future success. “Chris had this incredible presence even then,” recalls his half-brother and fellow PDS alumnus Kevin Johnson ’81. “When you watch him as Superman, you see that same authenticity he showed on the PDS stage. He wanted to fully step into every role.”

TAKING FLIGHT

After PDS, Reeve attended Cornell University, studying English and music theory. There, he became one of two freshmen selected for the Advanced Program at The Juilliard School under director John Houseman. His classmate was another future star, the venerable Robin Williams, who would become one of Reeve’s lifelong friends and greatest supporters.

Reeve made his Broadway debut in 1976 opposite Katharine Hepburn in the play, “A Matter of Gravity.” The 1976 Journal noted the achievement, stating, “It’s a long way from ‘Little Mary Sunshine’ in the Herbert McAneny Theater at Princeton Day School to a major role opposite Katherine Hepburn in her new play — a long way indeed, but Chris Reeve managed the leap in just five years.”

Two years later, Reeve landed the role that would define his career: Superman.

Reeve (bottom left) with his brothers Benjamin Reeve ’71, Jeffrey Johnson ’79, and Kevin Johnson ’81 with their mother, Barbara L. Johnson

“He played that role straight up. When he said, ‘I’m here to defend truth, justice, and the American way,’ there wasn’t an iota of irony on his face. He meant every word.”

Director Richard Donner cast him over established actors, including Charles Bronson, Sylvester Stallone, and Arnold Schwarzenegger, believing an unknown face would better serve the character. The decision proved effective.

Reeve’s portrayal of Superman and his secret alter-ego, Clark Kent, brought depth and humanity to what could have been a one-dimensional character. He was also the first actor to create the illusion of flight as Superman on screen.

Reeve shares in the documentary, “The idea [of flying on screen] was new in 1977. ‘Superman’ was the first film to try and make this comic book real.”

Donner recalls the impact of seeing Reeve in flight. “The first time I saw Chris fly, he came at [the] camera, and for some reason, he actually banked his body, and he flew past us. The camera stopped rolling. There was dead silence. And then 50 people all of a sudden started to just cheer.”

Reeve’s earnest approach to Superman connected with both his colleagues and viewers globally. The film achieved classic status through both its innovative special

effects and Reeve’s genuine portrayal.

“I rewatched ‘Superman’ recently,” Reeve’s brother, Kevin Johnson, shares. “He played that role straight up. When he said, ‘I’m here to defend truth, justice, and the American way,’ there wasn’t an iota of irony on his face. He meant every word.”

TRUTH AND JUSTICE IN ACTION

Before the tragic 1995 equestrian accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down, Reeve had already used his celebrity status for meaningful causes. He co-founded the Creative Coalition with fellow actors Glenn Close and

Susan Sarandon, advocating for freedom of expression in Congress. Following an unexpected call, his most notable preaccident advocacy occurred in November 1987 when Chilean novelist and playwright Ariel Dorfman contacted Reeve with an urgent request: Would Superman fly to Santiago to support 77 of Chile’s leading actors?

General Augusto Pinochet’s oppressive government had targeted outspoken political theater artists, particularly those criticizing the regime’s human rights violations. Chilean actors faced death threats if they refused to leave the country

Reeve on the McAneny stage (above) | Johnson and Reeve in 1978 outside the studio where “Superman” was filmed

Reeve and Herbert McAneny

or continued their public dissent. Dorfman contacted Reeve because he knew of his commitment to justice.

“How do you answer when someone says, ‘We really think you could directly save the lives of 77 people?’” Reeve later told the Los Angeles Times. “It didn’t require much soul-searching,” he said about his decision to make the trip. “I couldn’t think of anything coming up for me more important than that.”

Eight days later, Reeve attended a rally in Santiago called “Vida y Arte” (Life and Art). When authorities closed the planned venue, thousands gathered instead at a midtown garage. There, speaking Spanish for the first time publicly, Reeve read a letter of support signed by prominent American artists.

“This was not Superman to the rescue,” he insisted afterward. “It was me as a private citizen and as an actor in a country where we take the freedom to perform for granted, helping fellow professionals in a country where they do not.”

The effort succeeded — Pinochet’s regime withdrew the threats against the actors, though Reeve minimized his own role. “For them, life and art go together,” he reflected.

“Chris directed public attention to help

his fellow artists stand up for the truth that comes from art,” Johnson recalls.

ADVOCACY AFTER INJURY

Following his paralysis, Reeve became a leading advocate for people with spinal cord injuries and a driving force behind expanded medical research. He established The Christopher Reeve Foundation (later renamed The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation), which developed into a key organization funding spinal cord research and improving the quality of life for people with paralysis.

Ten months after his injury, Reeve appeared at the 68th Academy Awards and received extended applause from the audience. He used this moment to encourage Hollywood to address more social issues in films. He strategically used his public platform to drive progress, appearing on TIME magazine’s cover in August 1996 following his hosting of the Paralympic Games and his address at the Democratic National Convention.

Reeve became an influential voice in stem cell research, testifying before Congress and questioning restrictions on federal funding. By 2003, a medical expert observed, “There was essentially no substantial funding of spinal cord research

before Reeve’s injury, and now it is one of the hottest areas in neurobiology.”

Through his foundation, Reeve directed more than $140 million to research and over $44 million in quality-of-life grants. He served as chairman of The American Paralysis Association and vice chairman of the National Organization on Disability. He co-founded the Reeve-Irvine Research Center, now a leading facility for spinal cord research.

“I’m struck by his determination when he had to rely primarily on his voice,” Johnson reflects. “He used his public profile to advance research in a critical medical field. He found purpose by helping others.”

Despite physical limitations, Reeve refused to abandon his creative pursuits. He began by narrating HBO’s Emmywinning documentary “Without Pity” in 1996, with his directorial debut following shortly after with “In the Gloaming” (1997), earning five Emmy nominations. As Johnson notes, the film’s nuanced exploration of how families navigate tragedy reflected Reeve’s own depth of understanding. “There’s no easy Hollywood answer in that movie,” he says. “It’s really reflective of someone who didn’t have an easy life but continued to make meaningful art.”

His performance in the 1998 remake of “Rear Window” earned him a Screen Actors Guild Award and a Golden Globe nomination. That same year, his memoir “Still Me” became a New York Times bestseller for 11 weeks and won a Grammy for its audiobook version. He followed with a second book, “Nothing Is Impossible: Reflections on a New Life.”

Reeve continued his creative work into the 2000s. He appeared on “Sesame Street” and joined the Superman franchise again in “Smallville,” playing Dr. Virgil Swann alongside a young Clark Kent, setting viewership records for the WB Network. His last directing project was “The Brooke Ellison Story” for A&E, about the first quadriplegic Harvard graduate. At the time of his death in 2004, he was directing the animated film “Everyone’s Hero,” which his wife Dana and youngest son Will completed, continuing his creative legacy.

When Reeve returned to Princeton Day School in 1990 to receive the Alumni Achievement Award, he told students and faculty, “Whatever it is that I am

Reeve with his two eldest children, Matthew and Alexandra Reeve

doing, whatever it is I’m interested in, my hunger and appetite to learn about things, wherever that comes from, I owe a tremendous amount to Princeton Day School.”

That curiosity, growth mindset, and service orientation characterized his life. From writing stories for the PCD Junior Journal to transforming as an actor and advocate, Reeve consistently challenged boundaries. But, his most profound legacy may be how he changed the conversation around disability, proving that a single determined voice — even when it was all he had left — could spark a movement that continues to improve lives long after his passing.

CHANGEMAKING ON A DIFFERENT STAGE

Kevin Johnson ’81 speaks with conviction about the influence of his half-brother on his career. “Chris used his platform to stand up for what was right,” Johnson says of Christopher Reeve ’70. “That definitely influenced the path I chose.”

After graduating from PDS in 1981, Johnson built a career bridging international democracy development and domestic election reform, with his brother’s example serving as a guiding principle.

Sometimes working alongside President Jimmy Carter, he assisted emerging democracies on three continents, from supporting Nelson Mandela’s election in South Africa to helping new democratic governments in Central and Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia. “The way to be useful in that work as an outsider was to show people the menu. What are the options? How do

different successful democracies around the world do this?”

This international perspective illuminated weaknesses in American democratic systems. In 2017, Johnson founded the Election Reformers Network (ERN) to address structural issues in U.S. electoral processes that many other democracies have already resolved.

“No other democracy has parties controlling the things they are controlling here,” Johnson explains. “No other democracy elects judges with a party label on their name or gives their legislative bodies control over the details of election administration. Yes, we have many good people in these positions who work to prevent conflict of interest and who put country before party. But we can’t always rely on that ethic, particularly in this new polarized era.”

ERN’s Election Overtime program equips journalists in swing states to understand contested election procedures while addressing systemic challenges like gerrymandering and advocating for independent election oversight — work critical to maintaining democratic legitimacy.

“Trust is vulnerable,” he emphasizes. “You don’t want people to think ‘the system is rigged’ and give up. That’s why we need a new approach to the management of elections, one that doesn’t put political parties in charge.”

With support from organizations including The Carter Center and The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, ERN works to strengthen American democracy through targeted reforms. It’s an approach that mirrors Reeve’s advocacy, identifying fundamental problems and working with personal conviction toward effective solutions.

“Chris played Superman without irony, his commitment to ‘the American Way’ completely sincere,” Johnson reflects. “I feel the same way about the work we are doing at ERN. American democracy really matters, and right now it needs defending and improving.”

Reeve with his family

Reeve attends Johnson’s graduation from Yale University

ON THE

By Jana F. Brown

Standingshoulder to shoulder in February, members of the Princeton Day School boys and girls squash teams squeezed into a limited viewing area to support Clara Shin ’25.

Cheers erupted as Shin, battling against an opponent from Berkshire School at the High School Squash Nationals, earned a 3-1 victory to break a 3-3 tie between the two teams.

Shin’s dramatic victory at Nationals, hosted by the University of Pennsylvania, helped the PDS girls varsity come all the way back from 0-3 down in individual matches, capping consecutive wins by Angela Du ’26, Ishika Bhagavathula ’28, and Christina Sarvis ’28. As it turns out, the crammed space at Penn Squash Center was also a visual representation of what the squash program’s coaches are building at PDS.

While the sport has a long history at the school, dating back to the 1980s, over the past five years, squash has rapidly expanded, producing notable results in the win/ loss column and in the program’s promotion of positive team culture. The last several years have featured significant growth, with more than 70 PDS Middle and Upper School students participating across the boys and girls teams. In the Middle School alone, up to 60 students signed up for squash this winter (32 were rostered), and the 16-player roster for the varsity girls team is the program’s largest in its six years of existence.

Much of the credit goes to the dedicated leadership of Squash Director Matt Trowbridge ’98, Head Squash Coach Asad Khan, and Assistant Coach Ron Koenig, who focus on developing not just strong players but also good teammates and leaders who exhibit sportsmanship and humility.

Khan, who hails from a renowned squash family in Pakistan and played collegiately at Denison University, has been coaching squash full-time since 2010. Prior to arriving at PDS in 2020, he coached at Nardin Academy in Buffalo, New York, and

the Haverford School in Pennsylvania, where he led the program to three national championships. As head coach for both the boys and girls varsity teams at PDS, Khan was hired as a resident squash professional as part of the school’s commitment to boosting the program. He has since worked to instill in his players a culture of camaraderie and relentless work ethic.

Under Khan’s guidance, the PDS squash teams have achieved impressive results at Nationals. This winter, the boys finished seventh in Division III, while the girls placed 12th.

“My passion is to focus on the fundamentals and make the game look beautiful,” Khan says. “Squash requires much more than just physical ability; it’s a game of angles, geometry, and physics that the players have to master.”

Trowbridge, who began playing at age nine with Princeton Junior Squash, returned to PDS in 2018, shortly before the opening of the new Athletic Center — which includes four international squash courts (the program was previously housed off-campus). As director of squash and Middle School head coach, Trowbridge has played a crucial role in elevating the program by overseeing the big picture. As the newest member of the coaching team, Koenig joined the program in 2023 after a prior stint as assistant coach for men’s and women’s squash at Franklin and Marshall College.

While longtime coach Dede Webster shepherded the program in its infancy (Court 1 in the new facility is named in her honor), prior to 2018, PDS squash fielded a co-ed program that competed exclusively in the boys division at Nationals. In 2019, the school had enough interest to launch a dedicated girls varsity team.

“Having the squash center here has been a game-changer,” says Trowbridge, who also teaches English at PDS. “It’s allowed us to grow the program and introduce the sport to so many more students.”

That growth has come through increased visibility in the local community via PDS summer camps and through greater squash exposure to the PDS student body. Khan introduces squash to Lower School students through PE classes, while the program offers after-school clinics to generate interest and feed into the Middle and Upper School teams and maintains

strong Middle School and JV programs to develop players. Khan is also available for extra help sessions to help tutor players on the mechanics of swing fundamentals, from grip control to racquet speed to footwork, including efficient movement to get to the “T” position (center) of the court after each shot.

Trowbridge and Khan are also proud of the mentorship they’re fostering within the program, as evidenced by the support of Shin at the Nationals and daily, as the top players on the ladder volunteer to teach younger athletes the fundamentals. That includes siblings Colten ’26 and Reghan McLaughlin ’28, U.S.-ranked squash players who were named high school AllAmericans in 2024, and Will Maschler ’24, who now plays at Bowdoin College.

“These players can be found just as easily training with other top players,” Trowbridge says, “as they can be introducing the game to a potential JV player and doing so with grace, kindness, and enthusiasm.”

As the PDS squash program continues to grow, Khan says the ultimate goal is to win a national championship. But beyond the pursuit of titles, the coaches are committed to cultivating well-rounded student-athletes who embody the school’s mission, vision, and values of character, compassion, purpose, humanity, and joy.

“The squash program has exploded in both popularity and success over the last 4 years under the leadership of Coach Khan,” says Director of Athletics and Physical Education Katie Fay. “It is clear that there is an appetite for this sport in our area. What I love about the PDS program is that we expose students to the game in many different ways — through Lower and Middle School PE, after-school clinics and lessons, and, of course, interscholastic competition. We are able to meet students at their individual skill levels while fostering personal growth and team unity in a nationally ranked program.”

This philosophy is evident in the program’s approach to player development. Khan and Trowbridge point out that squash is distinct in that the players referee each other’s matches, forging an

atmosphere of honesty, respect for the opponent, and accountability.

“It’s not just about making them great players,” Khan says. “It’s about making them great teammates and leaders, on and off the court.”

Clara Shin ’25 and Colten McLaughlin ’26

STANDING OVATION

We celebrate this year’s retiring colleagues with deep appreciation. Through their care, commitment, and steady presence, they’ve shaped our school in ways both seen and felt. As they begin a new chapter, we thank them for all they’ve shared and offer a heartfelt standing ovation for the legacy they leave behind.

BEVERLY GALLAGHER P’04 ’06

Imagine the Possibilities Coordinator; Former Lower School Teacher

33 YEARS

“Bev is the ultimate educator — innovative, responsive to students, and forward-thinking. Her devotion to teaching third grade leaves a legacy of inspired students who never forget how she sparked their love of reading and writing. One only needs ten minutes with Bev to sense her warmth, intelligence, and passion for teaching. Her literacy expertise and vision for a better world created one of her greatest legacies for PDS. Through the Imagine the Possibilities program, she has brought authors, poets, and illustrators at the height of their craft to PDS for almost 30 years. Bev truly helps everyone imagine possibilities, both teachers and students alike.”

– Emily Gallagher P’22, First Grade Teacher

DAVID BURKETT

Visual Arts & Design Faculty

22 YEARS

DAVID FREEDHOLM P’04 ’06 ’19 ’24

Upper School History and Religion Faculty

31 YEARS

“Dave has been a steady presence in the History Department, known for his care of students and colleagues, and his dependable ‘uniform’ of blue plaid shirts and khakis, with rotating ball caps from the Boston Red Sox, Texas Longhorns, or Tottenham Spurs. Never rushing to conclusions, Dave approaches historical content and relationships with even-keeled wisdom, offering perspectives rich in experience. Through three decades at PDS, Dave has taught, coached, or advised nearly 2,000 students. Each of these students, and all his colleagues, have felt like the most important person in his presence, becoming better for having known him.”

– Amanda Briski, Upper School History Faculty

“David’s tenure at PDS has been marked by his extraordinary ability to combine deep architectural knowledge with a genuine passion for teaching. His emphasis on preparation, research, and craftsmanship set a standard of excellence, inspiring students to consistently produce work beyond their years, many advancing to the nation’s top architecture programs. A true visionary and problem solver, David leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shape creative minds for years to come. He’s a colleague I deeply admire and a mentor whose impact will be felt long after his wellearned retirement. Truly, David has been the blueprint for what a great teacher looks like. Carpe Diem, indeed!”

– Chris Maher P’26 ’27, Upper School Visual Arts and Design Faculty

“ What makes PDS extraordinary is the people who bring it to life each day. These colleagues, whether in classrooms, offices, or on our grounds team, have contributed their talents with unwavering dedication. Each has shaped our community in meaningful ways, often through countless unseen moments of care and commitment. Their collective impact reminds us that a school thrives when every role is filled with heart and purpose.”

– Kelley Nicholson-Flynn

SUZANNE

PROCACCINO Accounts Payable Coordinator

20 YEARS

“Suzanne’s career is distinguished by her reliability, unwavering integrity, and meticulous attention to detail. As the accounts payable coordinator, her behind-the-scenes expertise has been instrumental to the school’s daily operations. She leaves behind a legacy of excellence (and highly organized records!). Beyond her technical expertise, Suzanne has always gone the extra mile to lend a helping hand, offering patient guidance and thoughtful assistance to colleagues with professionalism and warmth. As Suzanne embarks on this well-deserved retirement, I am deeply grateful for her steadfast dedication and the kind, caring support she has provided over the years!”

– Krysta Woll, Associate Director of Finance

MARGOT CHALEK Assistant to the Associate Head of School

17 YEARS

“For nearly two decades, Margot has been a steady and compassionate presence behind so much of what makes PDS run smoothly. Her extraordinary organizational skills, calm professionalism, and deep love of the community have made her indispensable. What stands out most about Margot is her warmth, kindness, and grace. She has supported and cared for so many of us through countless events and celebrations, ensuring everything runs flawlessly while making everyone feel valued. While we will miss her daily presence, her lasting influence on PDS will continue for years to come.”

– Lisa Surace P’22 ’24, Associate Head of School

CAROLINE HARE ’75 P’10 ’14 Second Grade Classroom Teacher 17 YEARS

“Caroline is a passionate educator whose dedication shines through in everything she does. She has mastered the art of creating a warm classroom environment where her students feel genuinely cared for, deeply valued, and continually inspired to grow. Her intuitive understanding of each person’s needs allows her to connect meaningfully with every student. Beyond her classroom, Caroline is a supportive colleague who approaches collaboration with enthusiasm and generosity. Her kindness and meaningful contributions to the Lower School community as a teacher, colleague, and friend will be missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside her.”

–

Heather Maione P’28 ’32, First Grade Teacher

JAMES SWEENEY Athletic Center Attendant 14

YEARS

“Jim was the foundation of the grounds department for many years. He never wavered from what he knew was essential to the students, especially the athletes. Jim is consistent, reliable, and knowledgeable about sports field maintenance. He brought his love of the New York Yankees to the PDS baseball fields, though he made sure to treat all sports equally! Jim attended continuing education classes to improve the grounds and fields and to keep his pesticide license current. Little did anyone know, but for the past five years, Jim was our pool man. We never had a cloudy pool under his watch. He will undoubtedly be missed.”

– William Greene, Grounds Manager

WENTING CHEN P’23

Upper School Classical & Modern Languages Faculty

7 YEARS

“It has been an incredible privilege to be mentored by Wenting, whose guidance, generosity, and dedication have not only shaped my own growth as an educator but also strengthened our Chinese language program. Over the past few years, Wenting thoughtfully expanded and streamlined the curriculum across all levels, laying a strong and cohesive foundation for students’ language learning journey. Her warmth and genuine care for both colleagues and students have left a lasting impact on everyone lucky enough to work with her — she is truly beloved! We will miss her presence dearly, but her legacy will continue to enrich our community for years to come.”

– Vicky Chang, Upper School Classical & Modern Languages Faculty

THE PANTHER DEN IS OPEN THIS SUMMER!

JUNE AND JULY HOURS

Monday – Thursday: 9 AM – 4 PM Friday: 9 AM – 12 PM

As the daffodils planted by Lower School students and parents over the years begin to bloom near Colross, I am reminded that spring is here and its promise of warmer weather. Though it was very cold on the Great Road this winter, there was a group of trustees, employees, alumni, and parents that was diligently planting the bulbs for Princeton Day School’s continued success by reexamining our mission, vision, and values.

From our fiduciary responsibilities to imagining the possibilities of where we might be in 10 years, the Board of Trustees is guided by the school’s mission, vision, and values. More than just words on the website, they help inform my decisions as chair of the Board. At my last meeting of 2024 with our head of school, Kelley shared with me a draft of the updated statements. After reading it, I shared with her that though the words were new, they felt so familiar and right for PDS. Much like a beloved poem, I could feel the care of word choice to powerfully convey the desired meanings and connotations. The team wisely chose to reengage with our 125-year-old motto from Miss Fine’s School, Semper Luceat, or “Always Shine.”

Over the next few months, the team took feedback from hundreds of community members to ensure that the words clearly reflected who we are and wish to be at this moment. At our February meeting, the Board unanimously approved the updated text after a presentation by the team and a robust conversation among Board members. We now move into a year-long exploration of what our strategic plans should be for the future.

On many occasions, I have shared with Kelley and others my desire to plainly state who we are and what we stand for as a school. This first step helps me focus my experiences of PDS through the lens of our shared values of Humanity, Creativity, Intellect, Joy, and S tewardship. As a parent who has been part of this community for 16 years, this truly feels like PDS to me — authentic, purposeful, and consistently striving for excellence. It is my wish that as you read our mission, vision, and values, you also see yourself or your student’s journey embodied in those words.

–

Christopher B. Bobbitt P’22 ’26, Chair of the Board of Trustees

Over the last three years, serving as the Princeton Day School Alumni Council President has been a privilege, honor, and joy. Having a unique lens within the school, I have connected with alumni from around the country, current students, families, the Board of Trustees, and our dynamic and dedicated faculty and staff. Through these various touchpoints, I quickly and consistently experienced that PDS is a place that many reflect fondly upon, and that the school is in sound health through the many elements of school life.

PDS welcomed in our exceptional new Head of School Dr. Kelley Nicholson-Flynn, and under her wise and thoughtful leadership has launched a visionary strategic planning process, reimagined the school’s mission, vision, and values for a modern PDS, integrated new leadership roles within the faculty and staff, and fostered an even stronger sense of community and purpose. With all of these enhancements, it is inspiring for me and all alumni to witness how the school is evolving while honoring its cherished traditions. As alumni, PDS may look and feel different, and it should; this is all part of a growing and evolving school community. Our challenge and opportunity as alumni is to explore the PDS of today and rediscover what has brought you joy and what unified us as Panthers. Our incredible school continues to nurture deep connections between students and faculty, fostering an environment where intellectual curiosity thrives alongside personal growth. At PDS, I’ve seen firsthand how students develop not just as scholars but as thoughtful individuals who approach the world with both creativity and compassion. Through its thoughtful leadership and rich community offerings, PDS remains a preeminent independent school. While embracing necessary changes in education, it honors the traditions that have always made our school special, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to a world that needs their unique perspectives and talents.

As this chapter of my PDS experience draws to a close, I thank you for your love, support, and engagement with our school. Together and by association, we are the PDS alumni community and the reflection of the mission in action.

– Paris L. McLean

’00, Alumni Council Executive

Board President

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Ashley Aitken-Davies P’27 ’28 ’30, Vice Chair

Sanford B. Bing H’87 P’81 ’84

Christopher B. Bobbitt P’22 ’26, Chair

Jixin Dai P’26 ’33

Beth Geter-Douglass ’82 P’20

Georgia B. Gosnell P’03 ’08 ’09 ’14

Anna Horner P’27 ’30, Secretary/Parliamentarian

Dylan J. Leith ’04

Cynthia O. Linville P’06 ’09 ’14

Amanda Maher P’28 ’30 ’34

Wesley D. Markham

Lee S. Maschler P’23 ’24

Paris McLean ’00

Kavita Morris P’28 ’31

Kelley Nicholson-Flynn P’26

Howard Powers ’80 P’11 ’12 ’12

Stephanie Richman ’87

Shefali Shah P’30

Jacob L. Silverman ’89, Treasurer

John C. Wellemeyer ’52 P’18 ’18

TRUSTEES EMERITI

Marc C. Brahaney P’11 ’15

William P. Burks P’75 ’77 ’81 ’86*

Rebecca W. Bushnell ’70

Barbara (Barbie) Griffin Cole ’78 P’08 ’13 ’17

Marilyn W. Grounds P’88 ’92

John P. Hall P’79 ’85

Thomas B. Harvey P’89

Samuel W. Lambert III P’83 ’86 ’89

Edward E. Matthews P’76 ’80 ’83 ’86

Andrew Okun P’14 ’16

David R. Scott

John D. Wallace PCD’48 P’78 ’80 ’84* C. Treby McLaughlin Williams ’80 P’12 ’15

ALUMNI COUNCIL EXECUTIVE BOARD

Zaneta Chambers ’95, Vice President

Marc Collins ’88, Secretary

Neal Bakshi ’10

Jay Bavishi ’05

Kaylah Bland ’18

Joanna L. Bowen ’03

Jill Cacciola ’13

Sara Chopra ’18

Brooks Herr ’10

Lynch W. Hunt ’85

Taylor K. Hwong ’88

Paris McLean ’00, President

Peter Powers ’12

Anu Shah ’05

Jacob Shavel ’15

*Deceased

Thank you for celebrating with us!

ALUMNI AWARD WINNERS

LYLAH ALPHONSE ’90

ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

When Lylah M. Alphonse ’90 began her journalism career as a reporter at the Princeton Packet during her senior project at Princeton Day School, she felt a thrill seeing her first byline. That excitement persists. “Thirty-five years later, I still feel the same thrill when I see my name on a published story,” she said.

Alphonse discovered her calling in Colross, editing stories and laying out issues of the Spokesman. A turning point came when then-Head of School Duncan Alling funded her attendance at a Minnesota summer journalism program with the agreement she would return to lead a journalism seminar.

That experience cemented her path to Syracuse University and confirmed journalism was her calling.

Now a newsroom leader at the Boston Globe, Alphonse advocates for local journalism against misinformation. “Local journalists are the public’s eyes and ears in places where the public can’t necessarily go,” she explained. “They shine light into dark places and cut through the noise of social media to get to what’s actually happening.”

Her interest in data journalism led her to create rankings projects at U.S. News & World Report. At Yahoo.com, she interviewed members of Congress, Obama administration officials, and former First Lady Michelle Obama.

These experiences strengthened Alphonse’s commitment to diversifying newsroom perspectives. “Having a newsroom that includes a wide range of perspectives better allows us to avoid bias and offer information that truly matters to readers,” she said.

SAPNA THOTTATHIL ’00

JOHN D. WALLACE PCD’48 ALUMNI SERVICE AWARD

In the early 2000s, Sapna Thottathil was already laying the groundwork for institutional change. With a major in environmental studies at the University of Chicago, she spearheaded the creation of the campus’ first sustainability office, foreshadowing a career dedicated to environmental transformation.

Those environmental seeds were planted earlier. “My passion for the environment started when I was very young,” Thottathil said. At PDS, while co-editing the Spokesman, she connected leadership with environmental interests. “The Spokesman became my life! I realized I wasn’t spending much time focusing on the environment, which is why I chose that topic for my senior project.”

Her senior project at The Watershed Institute proved transformative. “The project was a crash course in environmental topics — reading field guides, using compasses, and calibrating monitoring instruments,” she said. “I spent hours outside, learning about New Jersey’s landscapes and documenting pollution harming our water and land.”

During her doctoral program at UC Berkeley, Thottathil received a Fulbright to study organic farming in India. “I met a young farmer using panchagavya in his soil who showed me how his plants were healthier,” she said. Now leading sustainable pest management at the California Environmental Protection Agency, Thottathil combines innovation with traditional wisdom. “The writing, thinking and leadership skills I learned at PDS are crucial to my everyday work leading a division spearheading sustainability in California,” Thottathil said. “Many folks, from India to California, are looking for change. We don’t have to be stuck growing food in ways that are not working.”

JAY MACK ’15

OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD

When Jay Mack ’15 first stepped onto the McAneny stage as a freshman to audition for “The Laramie Project,” he couldn’t have known that moment would set the foundation for his Broadway future. The transition from Middle School productions to Director of Performing and Fine Arts Stan Cahill’s intense directing style marked the beginning of his theatrical journey.

“It was a little jarring going from the levity of the Middle School plays to Stan’s intensity during the auditions and rehearsals of Laramie, but I liked his process,” Mack reflects. “His attention to small details made me fall in love with word and character variation so much more.”

Beyond the spotlight, Mack’s role as a Peer Group leader taught him teamwork and compromise. “These activities force you to remember you are one of three or more, and you can’t always have your way.”

Today, Mack performs in “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” on Broadway. “We get people ranging from little kids to retirees coming in with the same level of excitement to watch the magic,” he says. “I’ve never experienced anything like the Harry Potter fans I see daily.”

One lesson from PDS still guides him. After apologizing for a forgotten line during rehearsal, Cahill commanded: “NEVER say sorry on stage.” Mack took this to heart. “And I never did again,” he reflects. That lesson helped transform a freshman with Broadway dreams into a professional who now lives them.

1985 BOYS VARSITY LACROSSE TEAM

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME AWARD

2025 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

In 1985, under Head Coach Bob Krueger’s guidance, the boys varsity lacrosse team forged a remarkable 17-1 record. Their defining moment unfolded against undefeated Lawrenceville, when a spectacular behind-the-back shot by Jack Cook ’85 became the catalyst for victory. Now, nearly four decades later, the team’s induction into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame honors not only athletic excellence, but a brotherhood. “The 1985 team was just that... a team,” reflects Co-Captain Thomas Foster ’85. “We embodied that rare alchemy where individuals elevated everyone around them.”

Elias Abud ’87, Brint Bromley ’86, Eric Bylin ’85, Jonathan Bylin ’87, Karl Chiang ’86, Jack Cook ’85, Jon DeRochi ’86, Sean Fisher ’85 (Co-Captain), Thomas Foster ’85 (Co-Captain), Chris Gallup ’88, David Haynes ’85, Greg Heins ’86, Erik Hovanec ’85, Charlie Jaques ’85, Col Krueger ’86, Chris McCabe ’86, Scott Miller ’87, Bill Noonan ’85, Cary Paik ’86, John Roach ’85, Jamison Suter ’85, John Totaro ’86, Rob Tuttle ’85, and Paul Van Horn ’85. Coaching Staff: Bob Krueger*, Phil Clippinger ’83, and Jim Ringer.

*Awarded posthumously

CLASS NOTES

MISS FINE’S SCHOOL

1940

We were so sorry to learn that Phyllis Vandewater Clement passed away on March 15, 2025, just short of her 102nd birthday. She attended Miss Fine’s School from kindergarten through 12th grade and she served as the class correspondent faithfully for many years. Her son, Tom, wrote, “She always held Miss Fine’s close to her heart and felt you formed her into the person she became.” We send our condolences to Phyllis’ three children, seven grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

1950

Many thanks to Doe Coletti Mechem for serving as class correspondent for about 15 years. Please send your news to classnotes@pds.org.

1953

Please send your news to classnotes@pds.org.

Anne Carples Denny wrote: “Now most of us are turning 90. Fortunately, I am in good health, but not very active. Some sad news is that my husband of 67 years, Collins Denny, passed away in July 2024. We started dating when I was a senior at Miss Fine’s but didn’t marry until I graduated from Wheaton College. My mother would not let us!!! I’m looking forward to hearing news of my classmates. Come on, guys — write.”

Hope Thompson Kerr wrote: “I am still way across the USA, living in Bend, Oregon, with my twin sister, Hilary. Sadly, both our husbands have passed.

“Oregon is very different from Princeton and all. But lots of mountains, pickleball, hikes, friends, and weather. My two girls, Linda and Karen, are now living in Dallas with their husbands and children. I hope my classmates are fine and are having fun with their families.”

1954

Joan Kennan joankennan@gmail.com

1955

L. Chloe King

lchloek@comcast.net

Alice Marie Nelson wrote: “Not a lot of news from Sullivan Street. My Goddaughter, Katherine, came over from Berlin and spent a week with us in November. Ann and I did take a trip last May. A dear friend and teaching colleague of Ann’s had died (at 100!), and the memorial service was held in Norwich, England. So, we flew there, via Amsterdam, and spent some time revisiting old haunts and old friends of ours as well as attending the service. We lucked out with the weather, which was gorgeous. We then spent a few days in London seeing friends. Our only ‘touristy’ thing to do was to visit Handel’s house. My Swedish cousins flew over and we joined them for several excellent meals and a general catch-up.

“Other than that, now that we have had to sell our cabin, we made a couple of short excursions in the summer, spending a week at Beach Haven on the Jersey shore at the invitation of a friend. Since then, we have hunkered down here in the city, waiting for the return of spring in the Northeast!

“So that’s pretty much it — although we have seen some wonderful theater, heard some opera, and seen some wonderful exhibitions since I last wrote. The advantages of living in The Big Apple.”

Jo Cornforth Coke had a “lovely cruise to the Canary Islands over Christmas and New Year with my sister, Julia MFS’61. Beautiful Spanish and Portuguese volcanic islands off the coast of Africa with not a speck of trash anywhere... what a nice thing. Of course, I had to spoil it by getting the flu and being isolated for two days on the ship, but it was still a grand trip.”

“Have been working with the League of Women Voters and AARP, in addition to the boards of WCTI (our local PBS station) and the symphony, as well as the usual Rotary requirements. I manage to keep a little busier

than I like, so I will be cutting down soon. Julia is returning from four years in London, and her legal address is mine. We plan some adventures!”

Laura Travers Pardee sent: “Laura and Fred are both very busy working on committees at Bay Village in Sarasota and at church. They keep up walking in spite of some discomfort associated with the usual aging process. Hugs to everyone.”

L. Chloe King had a good, long telephone conversation in March with Barb Kohlstaat von Oehsen; no news, but it was fun to catch up.

My life has slowed to a crawl. Age is catching up with me, and I do not like it! Having very limited activity is distressing. The disastrous fall in January 2024 is still plaguing my right shoulder and right hip. Fingers crossed that life will improve soon! Best of health to all.

1956

Charlotte Cook ccook@csus.edu

1957

Rosalind Webster Perry rosperry@impulse.net

We’ve had some sad news from Anne Gildar Kaufman: “My dear husband, Larry, died in September after a long struggle with Parkinson’s. It was so fast, I don’t think he realized he was dying. I have to say that one of the best decisions we made was moving to Lantern Hill, an independent living community. I have such a wonderful support system here.” On behalf of our class, we send Anne our deepest sympathy.

Nancy Miller also appreciates her senior community: “I’m still enjoying my life at Pennswood Village. I love the pool, and I’m on several committees. One can never be bored here! I’ve been having back problems, but the good thing about being here is that transportation is provided to hospital tests and appointments.”

Susie Smith Baldwin phoned me and shared this update: “Post-stroke and myriad health issues, I am gratefully enjoying an assisted living home in Montpelier, Vermont. I’m delighted that my daughter-in-law’s father is also living here. What good fortune to share family gatherings with our kids and grandkids right here! I would love to talk with anyone who is doing the daily lessons in ‘A Course in Miracles’ (ACIM).”

Bonnie Campbell emailed that she had made several trips back to Cape Cod during the past year, “although distant homeownership is becoming more difficult. My last trip to my

Alice Marie Nelson MFS’55 and Ellen Jamieson Frank MFS’55 met at the Starlight Diner in NYC. “Only the second time they have met since college in the ’50s!”

timeshare in Mexico was in December, and now I’m into my seasonal tax prep work for the AARP program. Regrettably, I haven’t done any skiing to speak of this year. I keep hoping to get in a few last runs before time and body wear out! Otherwise, all is well here, and I look forward to reading news of other classmates.”

Helen Wilmerding phoned and emailed about her family: “I live with my daughter, Jane Heap ’89, and her family in Rye, NY. I hope for happiness for all my grandchildren: two here in Rye, four in London, and two sisters in Chicago and Texas. Living on Long Island Sound, Jane’s children have been rowing since they were 12. Her son is at Tufts, after a semester in Milan, where I was able to see him when I was in Italy last year. And Jane’s daughter is still rowing for Princeton! My son, Alan, is a chef in Hawaii; his wife runs a big hotel. They are empty-nesters, which gives us room to stay with them. Their older daughter has produced two adorable little ones — my great-grandchildren! Their younger daughter, Brooke Heap ’15, is now a lawyer. My London daughter has produced four beautiful, smart, sporty children. Her daughter is at UCL and a leader in soccer and academics. The oldest boy is off to university next year. And the middle boy is a soccer star.”

Alissa Kramer Sutphin wrote: “Bill and I are still at our home on Jefferson Road, enjoying it, and have no plans to move. Ann is studying Italian in Rome before going on a fellowship to the Civita Institute in the Italian hill town of Civita Bagnoregio. Our granddaughter, Lyla, will be joining Ann during Lyla’s spring break from Bryn Mawr College. Ann will be married in Seattle in June.”

Update from your class scribe, Rosalind Webster Perry: Dick and I are also still living in our longtime home, which we bought in 1977. After additions, it also housed two of our grandchildren during their college years at UC Santa Barbara. And now, our older daughter lives here with us, a wonderful arrangement! We see our family a lot, and last summer we celebrated the wedding of a grandson — the first in that generation.

Please keep sending news and photos, dear classmates. It’s wonderful to hear from you!

1958

Nancy Hudler Keuffel acornnhk@aol.com

1959

Ann Kinczel Clapp AnnClapp@hotmail.com

Susie Stevenson Badder returned to her beloved Florence, revisiting old favorites and the Tuscan countryside with more wine in Sienna.

Lucy James had a wonderful voyage on the Queen Mary 2 with her daughters and granddaughter. She spent a month as a solo traveler in Madrid. She and her family rented a barge on the Thames and had Thanksgiving dinner catered on board by Yotam Ottolenghi!

Dana Conroy Aymond is moving to Shell Point Retirement Community in Fort Myers, FL.

Jennifer Dunning finished the third book in the Raj Quartet and planted her sixth windowsill with crocus and freesia.

Tinka Grondahl is cutting back to teaching half-time in Berkeley so will have more time to write.

We were so sorry to learn that Wendy Yeaton Smith passed away on October 12, 2024, in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA.

I just finished reading “Moby Dick” for the first time and am waiting for my Zoom class to explain why it is the greatest novel ever written.

1960

Penelope Hart Bragonier Pbragon@gmail.com

Despite our advancing years — or maybe to spite them — at least a couple of us have ventured to faraway lands since I last wrote.

Louie takes the cake. In November, she and her “newish” partner, Scott, went to New Zealand on a small boat cruise; in February, another sailing cruise to the Caribbean; and in June, it will be another, this time through the Norwegian fjords and on to the Shetland and Faroe Islands. As if that weren’t enough, it’s the Galapagos in November. She added (as if we

Helen Wilmerding MFS’57 with her sister, Jan Wilmerding Binger MFS’51

Helen Wilmerding MFS’57 (second from left) with her daughter, Jane Heap ’89 (l), and her two children

couldn’t guess) that, “Life is extremely good, as is my health. Much gratitude for this new boost in life with my new love.”

As for me and mine, I’ve just returned from a wonderful visit to my son, Dean, and family in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where they now have “permanent resident status,” for which they’re very grateful. Last Christmas held exotic travel for all of us, thanks to Frank’s wish to “create family memories” by taking our kids and grandchildren on a two-week safari in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana. Perfect, every moment of it, and memories to last forever.

We’re unlikely to keep going at anything resembling Louie’s pace since Frank is 88, while Louie’s Scott is light years younger. In any event, I’m mindful that most of you have settled in closer to home, whether by necessity or choice. I share Louie’s gratitude for our good luck to date and am keenly aware that things could change at any moment. Meanwhile, dear friends, here’s to as much health and happiness as we all can muster.

1961

Mahala “Polly” Busselle Bishop mahalabishop4@gmail.com

Julia Cornforth Holofcener holofcenerltd@comcast.net

Sheila Long: “Here in rural New York, we are enjoying a ‘real’ winter for the first time in years. Last September, my French abbess came to visit: a first in the 16 years since I returned to the U.S. It was a wonderful, warm reunion, and I hope to go back to France for a visit sometime in 2025. In October, another gift fell from Heaven in the form of Sister Klara, a Polish nun who is having a sabbatical year after being Prioress of the monastery in Italy to which we are affiliated. She is 45, full of energy, and a huge help. Our best common language is French, but we have conversation practice in English and Italian.”

Fiona Morgan Fein: “The most dramatic thing in my life since the last news was the April 1, 2024, announcement of the closing of my alma mater, Wells College. It allowed us time for one final reunion in June when well over a thousand alums showed up to celebrate all that Wells meant to each of us. The dorms were full and there were small, colorful tents pitched all over the athletic field up the hill from beautiful Lake Cayuga. Food trucks supplemented the offerings of the dining hall, and the college staff members, who were accustomed to managing reunions of about 400 alums, did a stunningly good job of organizing well over twice that number! There was laughter mixed with the

tears and those who were just plain angry contained their feelings in the interest of the incredibly touching feeling of community that prevailed. All the students who wanted to continue their education were helped to transfer to other institutions, which accepted them with the same financial arrangements they had at Wells, and a skeleton crew in Aurora, under the leadership of the College President, continues the painful tasks necessary to fulfill all the requirements for closure.

“On a much happier note, I got to have lunch with Cynthia, Elise and Tibby some months ago, don’t ask me when (brain fog!), and am thinking about the fun we all had together a year ago at our 80th birthday bash. It’s time to start thinking about how, when, and where we can see each other again!!!”

Lucia Norton Woodruff: “A fractured ankle, not painful and needing no surgery, has led to my staying in the Austin retirement home I am signed up for until I can go up steps and live alone. It’s been a surprisingly fascinating adventure to stay here. I’ve zipped to events on a knee scooter, have seen old friends here, made new ones and at times it feels like a retreat. Healing now and will be able to return to my nearby home in a few weeks, but feel part of this community as well.”

Nancy Smoyer: “I’ve just gotten back from my winter trip — this time to Algeria and Tunisia. Both have very interesting recent (past 50 years) histories, which are unknown for the most part, at least by me. In March, I’ll be teaching a movie/history adult education short course on Vietnam. I’m starting with The Quiet American and exercising my history research ‘skills.’ I think my interest in history was reinforced by classes with Mrs. Boutelle.”

Kasa Lounds Cotugno: “I wasn’t going to add to this, but since my life has radically changed over the past year, I decided that I would add my update. Last May, I moved into an independent living facility in Oakland. It has proven to be very lucky for me, since the floor I’m on, and the people that I deal with on a daily basis, have given me a totally different perspective on life. We are all politically on the same blue page, and many are academics who have had life experiences in places such as Japan, Poland, and the Middle East. Many come from Cal, Berkeley, and some from Stanford. My best friend, Flossie Lewis, was a teacher of honors English in the San Francisco premier school and is quite a force to be reckoned with. She just turned 100, and we bonded over The Sopranos. She’d wheel herself down every day, and we’d watch an episode. Her PBS interviews, three of them, are on YouTube. I look forward to meeting with Fiona every time I go to New York. We usually have a lovely lunch and get caught up.”

Elise Chase (Tibby) Dennis: “My days are pretty full with meetings and deacon visits for church, plus commiserating with many friends over the state of the nation and the world. It has been so lovely to see Cherry for periodic deep and stimulating conversations over soup! And of course, Cynnie and I had great visits up in New Hampshire toward the end of last summer. (Don’t THINK I reported these before!!) Also, I THINK it was last spring that Elise, Gary, Cynnie, Fiona, and I had the treat of meeting in NYC for an elegant lunch. As you can see from the above, my main news is that more and more memories are now falling through the expanding cracks in my mind! But oh, well!!”

Jane Smith: “Weather in Vermont has been particularly awful for those who no longer ski, snowboard, etc. So, I hibernate but make sure I get out at least four days each week. Just came back from a lovely lunch at one of my favorite restaurants in Springfield, VT. Peace and happiness to all.”

Ramsay (Cherry) Raymond: “Like some others, I feel I don’t have much of interest to report. I am coping with survival-level issues caused by age, illness, and body politic. It takes time just to maintain daily life and address important matters like the approaching end of life. I am using Claude AI to help with decisions, brochure designs, and information. ‘He’ is courteous and eloquent, like a courtly gentleman, wise and gentle. I balance exposure to world insanity by watching Andre Rieu’s joyous concerts, a good-natured homesteading channel on YT where ducks, chicks, and two geese reign, and listening to sweet tales (like ‘The Princess and the Goblins,’ from my eighth year).

“I’ve just signed up for chair yoga. Tibby and I have interesting conversations that run into glitches, which turn out to be amusing and marvelously fruitful to unwind. She is spirited, earnest, bright, and kind as ever. I am about to get a hearing aid. In February. I conducted my first dream group in a decade, at the Cancer Connection in Northampton, and will donate another three sessions. Fundraising efforts with the Jungian society fell flat. I must return to work and am slowly composing back-up plans in case there is a true emergency collapse of our economy. Thank heavens for my time camping out. I am much less frightened, perhaps, than many, but the frailties of an aged body sure do add another dimension. So that’s it: Growing frail, but trying to turn it around to continue, eager to see this nation make a comeback as soon as possible.”

Joan Yeaton Seamon: “My news is a tribute to my beautiful sister, Wendy Yeaton Smith MFS’59, who passed October 12 in Manchester-by-the-Sea, Mass., after a difficult

pulmonary disease. I was blessed to be able to spend her last days with her and her lovely family at a wonderful hospice house near her home. Wendy and I entered MFS together in 1955 and, through the years, spent time reminiscing, with MUCH humor, about our experience at MFS! A wonderful place for classical study with myriad outstanding teachers. We both agreed our favorite was Mrs. Raubischek. I loved Latin, and Wendy was delighted when Mrs. R told her she had ‘a Roman nose.’

“Wendy sort of broke the mold in choosing U of Colorado (not an Eastern school) where she excelled, serving as president of the University sorority council and graduating cum laude from the Education School. This began a lifelong career in teaching and administration in elementary education, from Boston to Chicago to the International School in La Paz, Bolivia, as she followed her husband, Ralph, through his career postings. Their final stop was Manchester-by-the-Sea, where Wendy served as Head of the Brookwood Lower School for many years.

“A ceremony of remembrance was celebrated on a beautiful autumn day at the Manchester Yacht Club, where Wendy and her family spent so much time fishing and sailing, between her gardening expertise and creative knitting talents. Wonderful friends from the school and community gathered to share their thoughts. As Wendy’s husband of 60 years, Ralph Smith, said… ‘It was a fiesta!’ In addition to Ralph, she is survived by her exceptional children, Tim Smith and Carrie Woodruff, both of Ipswich, Mass., and grandchildren, Jack and Addie Woodruff. All of us miss her and her special life.”

Julie Fulper Hardt: “Another hip replacement several weeks ago has me, at this moment, grateful for the skills of today’s orthopedic surgeons as I remain ever thankful for the ongoing support of family and friends. Despite rapid healing, I know that it would be impossible for me to be aggressively and immediately on the front lines of protest, where everyone should be at this precarious moment in our nation’s history. Any suggestions from engaged classmates on how to effectively raise voices? I do hope to attend the anniversary celebrations of MFS and PCD this spring on the Great Road. I promise to report back before the next copy of the Journal is printed. Best wishes to all, and special thanks to Julia.”

Cynthia Weinrich: “Unfortunately, I’ve spent recent months dealing with various ills — a double dose of flu in October, the threeweek respiratory bug going around NYC at Christmas, and more tears to my rotator cuffs caused by some unwise decisions on my part and, more importantly, bad PT from

my hospital... Luckily, now seem to be doing better — saw a good osteopath for treatment and just was able to start up again with my good PT person (she had been on her honeymoon when I first tried to re-see her) and am hopeful will solidify returning progress. Have also been working on reminding myself that things could be worse, given what various friends are dealing with, and returning to counting gratitudes rather than grumps. After all, we are over 80, impossible to believe though that is. I’m also working on staying sane given the current parlous state of our country and the world. My usual winter hibernation menu of more escapist TV, tackling postponed ‘stuff’ organizing, enjoying contact with friends and family, and returning to working on writing are all helping.”

Elise Bruml: “I’m finding the DC area a surreal place in which to live these days, but on a personal level my life continues as normal. I’m still volunteering in our local school system, taking long walks with my energetic dog and two walking partners, participating in a Zoom book group composed of friends from across the country, procrastinating about doing things that seem onerous, and otherwise going about the routines of daily life. Gary and I remain in good health. We consider ourselves to be extremely fortunate but are increasingly aware of the inexorable movement of ‘time’s winged chariot.’”

Polly Busselle Bishop: “All I have to add from this chilly place is my tremendous love and admiration for our wonderful class.”

Julia Cornforth Holofcener: Lastly, I report that I have returned to the States until I hear from my General Manager that we have secured a well-known actor for the role of Churchill and a theater for my play, “Alliance” (alliance-theplay.com). Also, before I left London, we had a wonderful workshop performance of Larry’s musical, “I Don’t Live There Anymore” (idlta.com), which first opened at the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, S.C., in 1993! If anything, I’m persistent! I’ve had great fun investing in other productions and have actually made some money. One never makes a profit in the theater world, but I’m an associate producer through Jenny King Productions, and she picks well.

I’ve just bought a new Honda and will drive to Virginia from NJ to meet the newest member of our family, my great-grandson, Griffin. Then on to Chattanooga to my sister’s (Jo Cornforth Coke MFS’55), who generously allows me to stay for long periods of time, and my official US address.

Jo and I are flying to California in April for the wedding of my amazing grandson, Bradley, who is receiving his doctorate. While

there, I will visit Nicole and Suzanne, Larry’s daughters, and their kids in LA. On my return from CA, I will drive to Drums, PA where I will enjoy the summer months in my renovated garage apartment next to my daughter and son-in-law’s home on a beautiful lake where the swans live. I feel very lucky to have such a patient family, who actually requested I return home after so many years in the UK. Bless them! Both countries seem to be in such turmoil, but both have lived through worse, and I have faith that democracy will prevail.

1962

Linda Maxwell Stefanelli linda.stefanelli@gmail.com

It’s so great to have a forum to keep in touch. Some of us are starting new adventures, and others are sharing the ones we enjoyed together many years ago.

Cindy Brown has always been a few steps ahead of the rest of us with her December birthday and inspired a lot of envy when she turned 17 and could get her driver’s license months before anyone else. At this stage of life, being older isn’t quite as appealing, but Cindy refuses to give in to her chronological age and is plotting new ways to experience the world around her. She wrote, “As the first of ’62 to turn 81, I wonder if others have more age awareness lately. My longtime neighbor, whom I followed in age by just two years, has just died suddenly. I planned a recent solo trip to Merida, Mexico, this January for fun but also as a test of my capabilities. (Bravo, Cindy!) I rented a car but mostly stayed in the city for nine days and drove back and forth four hours to the Cancun airport. I suffered the challenge of a handicapped GPS the whole time, and getting totally lost the last day into darkest night. I am good in cities and loved Merida and its Arts Fest, super restaurants, kind and friendly Mexicans, two solo side trips that went well and were interesting, but that return drive was a horror. I did recover, but decided I will travel internationally, satisfied with the amount of independence provided by my tours! I realized that many of the activities lost to the Covid years have not returned and aches and pains have come in to fill the gap. I do depend on my new funny and talented chiropractor and a pain pill now and then. This week I will go back to ‘gentle yoga.’ Politics are tough but I have a small cohort to groan with and consider relocating. Sarasota is growing exponentially, and that is hard. I do count my blessings!”

A wonderful and welcome update came from Dede Shipway Webster: “I always enjoy reading the class notes and I realize the effort that goes into gathering them, so I am going to redeem myself by responding! I have found

my groove at Pennswood and am committed to the Quaker values, which is the basis of the community. It’s easy to make friends here and I enjoy the lectures, movies, projects, as well as certain areas of interest such as flower arranging (who knew!!), pool, and Bocce. Of course, my deep roots are in Princeton, and I return regularly for tennis, meetings with old friends, and athletics at the University. So lucky me to be thriving in this beautiful community, which is dedicated to ensuring our health and happiness. My Siamese cat, Echo, is a dedicated companion and is not shy about voicing her opinions.” Dede reminded me how she first became aware of that opinionated breed. “My first Siamese cat was a surprise birthday present. I was blindfolded and driven to your house on Edgerstoune only to be mesmerized by Siaba and her litter. I have had a parade of Siamese ever since! My brother (Morgan Shipway PCD’57) calls Echo ‘Dede’s personal assistant.’ She never leaves my side and talks nonstop — when I’m on the phone, she howls! The good news is that she sleeps a lot!” Dede ended with a memory that shows just how powerful those early friendships could be. “I just remembered that we were wading in Stony Brook in early spring and decided that we should marry each other!” Obviously, it didn’t work out, but it was a lovely, if naïve, thought. Dede ended, “I look forward to reconnecting with my MFS past this spring!”

Kate Sayen Kirkland regrets she can’t return for the MFS anniversary in May but said, “The celebration sounds like a great event, and I would like to be there, but I learned a few days ago that my page proofs will be arriving for my third book at the end of April, and I will basically have May to proof and index them. Even more important, my grandson is one of four leads in his eighth-grade musical, which I think is the same weekend. But I will visit Connie Sayen Ban ’68 in June, so you can tell me all about it then. Have a great time and send my greetings. I look forward to visiting a blue state in June.”

I’m afraid I won’t be able to see Kate (or the rest of you) this spring: I’ll be absent from Alumni Weekend celebrations for the first time in — yikes — could it be 42 years? That’s because Tony and I are heading off on an adventure of our own. In January, looking ahead to another grey, dreary, raw, cold NJ winter, we decided to put our house on the market. We got a fabulous offer in five days and signed the contract without having any idea about what to do next. Typical Stefanelli make-it-up-as-you-go-along scenario! It was a hard decision for two people born and raised in Princeton, but in the last few years, our children, once comfortably clustered within 40 minutes of us, have moved out of state. So, we decided to shake things up, get out of our comfortable rut, and made plans to move to North Carolina!

We’ll be within 20 minutes of our son, Trip ’90, his wife, and two teenage girls — and the beach! We’ve signed a year’s lease on a three-bedroom cottage in a development just north of Wilmington. It’s a big transition, scary and exciting at the same time, but we wanted to open ourselves up to new opportunities while we were able to enjoy them. Taking a page from the grandkids, I’m looking at this as a Gap Year to see what works best for us and how we want to spend the future. Watching our kids grow and blaze new trails of their own, we’re excited to see what’s around the corner for us. You’ve all got my email, so please keep in touch!

1963

Virginia Elmer Stafford vesalb@aol.com

In response to these changing and often turbulent times Polly Miller wrote: “Hello all. At the risk of offending some of you, I have been involved in helping immigrants here on the island who are living in fear of being let go by nervous employers and are staying home, afraid to let their children go to school, etc. A group of us here have reinvigorated the Immigration Resource Center, which was created under the previous Trump administration, answering calls and giving out money to those in need during Covid days. That money is gone, and going forward, we are unable to give money, but we are providing education, materials, and a phone number to call and an email to take questions so we can do our best to connect folks with resources both on and off island. Indivisible is a group nationwide that you can look up and join if you are looking to be active.

“Nick and I are upright and taking nourishment and trying not to drink too much in light of the chaos around us. Our children and grandchildren are all thriving, and we take pleasure every day in caring for our two miniNubian goats who are sweet, loving, gorgeous, and have no political agenda. We are trying to stay hopeful for the safety of our country.”

Kathy Sittig Dunlop wrote, “I am still here although a doctor said to me, ‘Aren’t you dead yet?’ Not acceptable. What is this world coming to? I applaud people like Polly who stand up for what they believe. I try to stay involved. I do a weekly Bible study on Zoom. That helps keep me sane. I am also continuing to study Spanish. I do Duolingo every day — have done so for over three years — now I need more opportunities to speak Spanish. For years, I mentored a young man who recently became a father, and he wanted me to know. I continue to improve after my openheart surgery. I am playing some golf. I am walking with Richard and the dogs. I recently

became co-chair of our Club’s Environmental Committee. We are involved with efforts to save our lagoon, among other things. I am learning a lot.”

Bonnie Grad Levy reported that she is having fun playing in a jazz quintet — flute, sax, keyboard, bass and drums.

Sally Campbell Hass wrote that she had a delightful dinner with Polly and Nick in Denver in January. They were there to attend a Stack Show, but tabled those plans. After their visit Polly and Nick were off to meet up with son, Scott ’87, and granddaughter, Maggie, before her freshman year at Colorado College.

Turid Helland reflected that she came to MFS in the fall of 1962 from one of the best high schools in Norway and found that MFS exceeded those standards. She continues to be grateful to Sally and her family, and all at MFS, for an experience that she continues to talk about. She went on to say, “My life has been good. I have two grown-up children and four grandchildren. Professionally, I have gone from high school teaching, special education, speech and language therapist, PhD, and for the last twenty years, professor (now emeritus) at the University of Bergen, focusing on research and teaching especially within different aspects of dyslexia and other language impairments. I have been around the world, working in a kibbutz in Israel, traveling in India, Nepal, Tibet, China, Myanmar, Syria, Iran, Egypt, some African countries, many European countries, and back to the US a couple of times. Most of this together with my husband, Kaare. We are both in good health, exercising, reading good and bad books, seeing good and bad movies, and still doing some work.”

Laurie Rogers wrote that she and Bob are trying to do as much as they can while they still can, which means they have been traveling a lot. Last March, they took a lovely road trip to Florida and the Keys. During the summer they raced Bob’s “venerable sailboat,” and joined a friend on his power boat for a week-long cruise. In September, they took a Viking cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest and found Viking to be as good as advertised. This September, they are planning a trip to England to see a cousin and some friends from the Viking cruise. They are excited to become great-grandparents soon, as Bob’s grandson and wife are expecting.

I, Virginia Elmer Stafford, was going to start to retire this year, but have decided that the best thing I can do to make a difference in this “new world” is to stay in practice to support my many patients who are suffering greatly either because they work for the federal government, are in the US on DACA status, are gay or

trans or of another minority group that lives in fear. I also find that the narcissism and uncertainty of the current administration are triggering many with severe childhood PTSD, leaving them feeling overwhelmed and often unbalanced. I am finding peace living on a small farm with plenty of nature around me and am looking forward to meeting my first great-grandchild!!

1964

Barbara Rose barbarabrose@me.com

The spring equinox is almost upon us as I write, and I hope it finds you all in good health, eager to say farewell to winter.

I was pleased to hear from a few of you in time for this spring’s submission. Cary Smith Hart has been exercising her right as a citizen of this country by joining a demonstration in Sacramento. Cary wrote: “Just returned from the demonstration at the State Capitol against the anti-democratic turn our central government has taken. I pray it can right itself soon. I fear for our nation.” It’s nice to know some things haven’t changed since 1964, despite current broad-based turmoil and uncertainty. Here’s to you, Cary!

Fran Wolff recently relocated to Austin, TX, having lived in Atlanta for many years. Here’s Fran’s new contact information: Frances Lylan Wolff, 2500 Barton Creek Blvd #2405, Austin, TX 78735; 404 843-1995. She wrote the following regarding her recent move: “I thought this would be a prudent move, but I am really thrilled with how it has worked out. I’m very happy here. I love the place I chose (Querencia), and I am delighted to be able to spend more time with my sister and nephews!” I also learned from Fran that she received an email from Susan Schildkraut letting her know she and her husband would be traveling to Atlanta, but, alas, Fran had already moved. What’s new, Sue?

I was delighted to hear from Susan Jamieson, who shared the following: “I am living in Tacoma Park, Maryland, with my daughter, her family, and Dory, my dog. Funny that I mentioned the dog’s name.” I confess, I miss having a dog, Sue.

A surprise phone call from Linda Conroy Vaughn was a lovely treat!! We had a great time catching up. Linda continues to pursue her love of travel, and when I asked if she had any plans for 2025, she responded, “I am still trying to see as much of the world as I can. I had a tremendous trip to Amritsar, India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives in January, and my daughter and I just returned from the BNP Indian Wells Tennis Tournament. It’s a beautifully run, annual event with all the top

players in a spectacular part of CA.” I continue to be impressed not only by Linda’s unending curiosity but by her physical stamina as well. You go, girl!

The same can be said of Dora Lange Gilstrap and her husband, George, who get the 2024 award for most sustained 12-month travel. The following note from Dora laid it all out. “In 2024, we had a marathon travel year, starting with a leisurely and beautiful month-long California circuit drive. In July, we flew via Qatar to Kuala Lumpur for a few days, then on to Borneo to see much exotic and surprising wildlife, from monitor lizards to proboscis monkeys and orangutans to huge sea turtles laying their eggs on the beach. Every moment was an adventure. In September we visited friends in Frankfurt, Germany, then on to Kenya on a safari (more amazing animals!). We continued to London for four days, then by train to SE England, where we hired a canal boat (66 feet long!) and navigated the canals for a week. George was the intrepid captain, navigating us through flood waters, rainstorms, and I was the novice ‘mate.’ Our travels were wonderful and breathtaking — definitely ‘bucket list’ experiences. To recover, we spent a few weeks in Hawaii, reenergizing ourselves for family gatherings in November and December. Whew…truly unforgettable travels. We returned with new friends, lots of stories, thousands of memories, and beautiful photos. This summer’s travels will be centered around our California and Washington, DC, grandkids. We can’t wait! Hope all our classmates are well and working on their bucket lists.” Kudos, Dora!! What a wonderful experience.

Below you will find a new address for me as I will be moving from Charleston to Wakefield, MA (just outside Boston), to be closer to family. I’ve retired from actively selling real estate but remain licensed in NJ and SC in order to facilitate referrals. I’m excited to be living closer to my son, Hobie Hare ’93, and his family (wife, Lucy; children, Henry, eight; Piper, five), as well as my sister Hope Rose Angier ’66, and a stepbrother, William Remsen ’71. My grandson, Jasper Drake, son of Elizabeth Hare ’88 and Todd Drake, is finishing his second year at the Cornell School of Architecture and plans to remain in New England. Those are a few of the reasons it makes sense for me to relocate. I’ll have two bedrooms in my new condo and encourage visitors. My new address is 62 Foundry Street, #401, Wakefield, MA 01880, barbarabrose@me.com, 609 937-1700.

When Susan Moulton learned I was moving to Wakefield, she reminded me that she lives in nearby Salem, Mass., along with Annie Clay Harris. Sounds like the makings of a good lunch in Salem once I’m settled in May.

1965

Margaret “Peggy” Woodbridge Dennis hotyakker@gmail.com

Kay (Karen) Fraser and I, Peggy Dennis, had a lovely dinner and catch-up session together in Venice, Fla., near Kay’s home. I was there to see first-hand the damage done to Manasota Key where my grandparents had a home for some seventy years. I am still trying to find a publisher for my novel, “The Bride’s Tears: The Rochesters of Spanish Town.” It is proving difficult to market it as it is neither a prologue nor an epilogue to the modern classic, “Wide Sargasso Sea.” It is a historical novel filling in the missing four years between “Wide Sargasso Sea’s” Part 2 and Part 3 when Mr. Rochester of “Jane Eyre” lived with his wife in the thencapital of Jamaica. Perhaps Peshe’s literary press would consider branching out into fiction.

Peshe Cantor Kuriloff wrote: “Ron and I have been fine in spite of all that has been going on in our area. We live in Pasadena, well south of the fires, but it has been a horrific time for a lot of people, including a friend who lost her beautiful home. We lost a large Chinese elm tree in the windstorm that preceded the fire. We were very lucky in that it did not land on our house or our garage. We are working on repairing the damage to our yard. The insurance company came through pretty well, thank heavens.

“I am figuring out how to deal with our current administration — like many of us, I imagine. I am going to meetings and marches, making phone calls and doing what I can. I am appalled by how much damage our President has done in such a short period of time, and hoping that our republic will hold up.

“The grands are moving along — one planning to go to Bennington next year. They live in San Francisco, and my other son is in the Amherst area. It is hard to believe I have sons who are over 50! I run a small literary press — Cahuenga Press — with three other poets and we just published our 29th book. We are very happy about that! So, life goes on — with a new knee as of September 30 and a new hip from last year. Thank heavens for modern medicine!!”

Martha Gorman Nielsen wrote: “Bob and I will be celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary on May 10, which is also his birthday! I can’t believe it; the years went by so fast.”

PRINCETON COUNTRY DAY

1949

Please send your news to classnotes@pds.org

Bevis Longstreth: “Of course, we don’t have a correspondent. We are all dead or too old to know whether we are still alive. I’m happy to give some news. I’m still upright at 90 but use a bright red walker to avoid falling, because I have serious neuropathy in my ankles and feet, making balance challenging. Falling is bad news, and I am trying to avoid it.

“When I was at PCD, we skated on Lake Carnegie and the canal that ran up to Trenton. In the mid to late 40s (that’s twentieth-century 40s), it was cold in the winter and water froze, often without snow, yielding smooth, hard black ice. I have wonderful memories of skating in afternoons after school classes finished, and then going to the Balt for hot chocolate with marshmallows on top. Glorious! Less glorious is my memory of Headmaster Murch, especially when I was required to appear before him for some rule violation, of which I had many. After graduating from Harvard Law School, I practiced law at Debevoise & Plimpton in NYC for most of my working career, then taught law at Columbia School of Law for five years, and then turned to writing novels, mostly historical, which are available on Amazon, while I await discovery by a wider readership, which is highly unlikely to happen in my brief remaining lifespan.

“My wife, Clara St. John, and I have been married for 61 years. She is the founder and conductor of the New Amsterdam Singers, an avocational group with a long and distinguished reputation. Clara has announced her retirement after this season ends with concerts in March and May. We have three adult offspring who, in turn, have given us nine grandchildren. So, there you have it, in a nutshell.”

George Hackl wrote to Bevis: “Hi Bevis, So good to hear from you. Your message back to PDS (PCD) triggered many memories: Carey, Harrop, you and I playing hockey on the Mathey pond, or on the Clark Ponds, the old Palmer Estate, beyond my house on Bayard Lane. Self-announced while we played: “Down ice fast! ……This could be the one! ……SCORE!” (then you and I did just that for Princeton University, tied for second with Brown, I think, in the pentagonal league, early Ivy League) or hunting crows and red squirrels at six am with Carey and his father in Tenants Harbor, sailing the Swan, Crow and Tanager, tennis, clam bakes. And all that reminds me of your wonderful eulogy at George’s service. I

could go on, but all to say you struck a chord of youthful memories, a welcome event at 92. Too old for golf now.

Sorry to hear about your neuropathy. A painful business. Better to hear about Clara giving it one more year for New Amsterdam Singers, even though her last.

“Ann and I are doing pretty well at our old farm and 360-acre parkland and trails now open to the public (not Landmark status but old and beautiful). It beats being in a CCRC by infinity. I mow and clear trails with my 1979 John Deere tractor.

“She is much better than I, sharp of mind while I lose mine (except for our youth). Her Castle in the Clouds (called Lucknow by Tom Plant, the original owner/builder) just received Landmark status by the Department of the Interior. There are only 2,600 in that category in the US. It’s an original Arts and Crafts masterpiece standing on 5,600 acres in the Ossipee mountains, which she, as chair of The Castle Preservation Society, bought for six million dollars and has now completed preservation (almost) for another six million. It has all been done to the highest standards of restoration by her renowned team, which caught national attention. Michelin would give it stars. Google it.

“Take good care of yourself. Stay in touch. Give Clara our best. Keep writing your amazing books.”

1950

Michael Erdman mperdman57@gmail.com

1951

Please send your news to classnotes@pds.org

Hugh Fairman wrote: “Classmates Bob Kales and I, when not otherwise engaged, try to attend Princeton football home games together.

“Any other classmates or friends who might be in town, desiring to join us, contact any of us. We usually have extra tickets at our disposal.”

Doug Levick wrote: “I have been living in the Bay Area in California for over 40 years, experiencing the dynamic life and extraordinary diversity of Silicon Valley. For the last decade, I have been in a wonderful retirement community on the edge of the Stanford campus in Palo Alto, after having retired 25 years ago from a career in the technology world.

“My life here is very active, attending lectures, consulting for nonprofit organizations, taking

courses at Stanford, interviewing applicants to Princeton, playing bridge, and having meals with friends. I spend two to three months each year at a much slower pace at my house on the Oregon coast, reading a lot and enjoying the wonderful coast nature opportunities.

“So, life is good. I miss my many old friends in the East, however, but usually get back there each year.”

1952

Philip Kopper PhilipKopper23@gmail.com

We may be few in number, but we soldier on. Don’t count us out!

John Wellemeyer wrote: “I am still doing what I have been doing, serving on the PDS Board of Trustees and interviewing applicants to Yale. PDS is prospering under the leadership of the head of school, Kelley Nicholson-Flynn. The applicants to Yale are truly amazing, which gives me hope for the future of our country despite the efforts of our politicians to wreck it.” To keep his brain limber in late winter, he prepped for a short course on postWWI Europe, “Grand Strategies and Grand Statesmanship,” to be taught in June in Oxford and London, where he and Louise have kept their house. They spend summers there, to very good purpose, it appears. Last year, they saw a dozen plays and John read fifteen books. Tim Cain reported (per Judy, his typist/ amanuensis since college days): “Life has slowed down a bit. We no longer go to Florida for part of the winter. And this has been an old-fashioned winter in upstate New York.”

Continuing to paint, if producing less than before, Tim plans to show a few new oils at an exhibition in Cortland this spring. That’s where they have lived for many years, and whence he reveals his vintage as he sent “warm greetings to the rest of the PCD Class of ’52!” The other three of us!

Bob Hillier chortles that he cut his daily commute from one hour to seven minutes, ten if by bike. All it took was a move from New Hope, PA, to his new zero-carbon house on Lake Carnegie. Publisher of both Town Topics and Princeton Magazine and threetime president of Princeton University’s Class of 1959, he continues to chair StudioHillier with twenty architects on staff. They manage private school, college, and university projects, corporate work, and multifamily projects involving some 3000 units, along with several multi-million-dollar private residences. “And, of much greater complexity, we are doing the ‘Renaissance’ of Witherspoon Street with the creation of seventy-six new apartments, half of which are to be within seventeen historic houses. . . I have another ten people working

on the development side of the business, which includes repair and maintenance, financial management, leasing, and some marketing, though many of our structures have waiting lists. That is a blessing that may soon disappear given what [President] Trump is doing to our economy.” Another client “is none other than PDS. The director of development is a terrific young man, and the new head of school is truly amazing!” Apropos, Bob recalled, several years ago “we were hired to build a new second gymnasium” at PDS and now the girls basketball team prefers playing there because its floor’s “wonderful ‘bounce’ gives the girls an amazing home court advantage.” The reason: the gym’s traditional floor structure is more forgiving than today’s floorboards laid on concrete. In other news, StudioHillier won a “Platinum Medal for the Best Renovation Project in the World for an ocean-front house in Nantucket, and a Bronze Medal for a dramatically cantilevered steel house in the Delaware River flood plain. To have a house ranked as the fourth best house in the world in 2024 ain’t so bad for this old man!”

As for me, Phil Kopper, like John’s pro bono work and Tim’s artful brush and Bob’s busy business, my publishing enterprise, Posterity Press, Inc., carries on — slower but still producing resonant personal memoirs and engaging family histories in handsome small editions. Next up: an American mystic’s account of her encounters and communications with imperiled African animals. With less work, I am finding time to write a book of my own in a hybrid genre: “the memoir as novel.” Why is that? Because the world hardly needs another autobiography by an old White guy sporting patched-elbow tweeds. But how ’bout a thriller set in your Nation’s Capital narrated by a long-time bystander who uncovers two history-bending murders? Or maybe three? Watch this space!

1953

Please send your news to classnotes@pds.org

Carl Akerlof wrote: “I haven’t interacted very much with PDS since my graduation in 1953. In that intervening 70-some years, I have enjoyed some rather unique opportunities to explore the world of physics and astronomy that included research activities in many locations around the world. Besides the United States, which included the USSR, Australia, Turkey and Namibia. As a faculty member of the Physics Department at the University of Michigan since 1969, I have very much enjoyed the opportunity to investigate all sorts of interesting topics in high-energy particle physics before moving to high-energy astrophysics, where we were able to capture the first optical images of gamma-

ray bursts. These activities came to an end for me in June 2024 with my retirement to the status of professor emeritus.

“I have also been blessed by a wonderful family that my wife, Carol, and I raised over these years, Karen Louise Akerlof and William Gustav Akerlof. They now live on opposite sides of the United States, but we usually manage to get together as a complete family every summer. Sadly, my wife of 56 years, Carol Irene Akerlof, passed away in September 2021. It has been wonderful for me to renew my life by marrying a long-time family friend, Carole Mae Mooney, who, coincidentally, lived in Princeton for a year or so before her first husband was hired to the faculty of the Economics Department here at the University of Michigan.

“I hope this gives you a brief image of what my life has been like. Many aspects were enriched by my early education at Princeton Country Day School.”

Peter Cook wrote: “Sixty-four years ago, I was a 22-year-old graduate of PCD, Exeter, and Princeton University who had spent a year ‘using his education’ to deliver for a local liquor store, play some hockey and drive the Zamboni for a skating rink in Newark, and work on house construction jobs as I had the previous five summers.

“I had tried to enroll in the US Navy Officers Training Corps (rejected for a history of asthma), I had almost joined the US Army in the hopes of learning Mandarin Chinese at their school in Monterey; and I had, in spite of no apparent ‘prospects,’ become engaged to be married.

The marriage was to take place in September, but as of early June, I had no plans. The first Saturday in June, already 80 degrees in Princeton, and there was a swimming party at the home of PCD classmate John Vollbrecht, and there was Henry Bates Ross, comfortable in coat and tie.

“At some point, Mr. Ross asked me what I was doing, and I had to say not much. ‘Have you thought about teaching?’ ‘Not really.’ ‘You should.’ He then went on to tell me about new programs offering a Master of Arts in Teaching at Johns Hopkins, Yale, Columbia, and Harvard.

“I thanked him and promised I’d think about it; and in fact, I actually followed through and made a phone call to the Harvard School of Education on Monday (I had ruled out Yale and Columbia, mainly on the basis of school colors, and Johns Hopkins because there wasn’t much hockey around Baltimore).

“The voice at the other end of the line confirmed that Harvard’s MAT program was

up and running — and that their deadline for applications had been in February. I said thanks and assumed I was off the hook, but then the voice said there was a one-year version of the MAT — a summer session and a school year of courses and student teaching — and that they had just had a drop-out and there was a potential opening.

“The next week, I was off to Harvard and on my way to eight years of teaching and coaching, a long career in Public Television, and a marriage lasting six decades.

“I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say I owe my career path — and my family, for that matter, substantially to that encounter with the Headmaster of Princeton Country Day School, a remarkable and resourceful man who cared enough about an apparently feckless former student to point the way to something positive and productive.”

1954

Fred “Fritz” Blaicher fritzblaicher@yahoo.com

I see Lance Odden and his wife, Patsy Kerney Odden MFS’59, in Manchester, VT, mainly on the golf course. Gay and I built a new house in Vero Beach, one house and no boats, life is good. Eight grandchildren (17 to 31), all but one were here for Christmas with their parents.

1955

Patrick Rulon-Miller prmiller322@gmail.com

Clark “Chuck” Travers cgt1781@gmail.com

Roger Hoit sent: “After PCD, I went to Deerfield Academy and then Princeton, well prepared for the academic rigor and personalized classes at both schools. I was also prepared by the six-man PCD games for Deerfield’s and then Princeton’s single-wing football. The architecture department at Princeton prepared me for an accelerated master’s program at the University of Pennsylvania.

“I married my high school sweetheart, Nancy Rosenberry, two weeks after graduation in 1962. We moved to Hingham, Mass., after Penn with our infant son. We bought our first and only house, a farmhouse built in 1675 and 1719. Our daughter, Sarah, was born in 1966, and she and her family now live next door. We are still here 61 years later.

“At first, I worked for a firm in Boston, but in 1978, I co-founded an architectural firm and was President for 32 years. We completed over 400 schools, municipal buildings, and

commercial office spaces. Meanwhile, Nancy had a career in child and family policy ending in the White House with Al Gore. In 2001, we decided to focus on our first love, residential (especially historical) architecture, and at 83 and 84 we still have a very active practice from our office on the farm, with five horses and a goat! Despite some medical adventures, I’ve played a lot of golf and I’m still playing tennis every week. We have four spectacular grandchildren and look forward to the next generation, praying that the world will be kind to them and their children. We are so lucky to have each other and this exciting life, and we are trying to preserve it for the future.

“I am certainly appreciative of the educational foundation that I received from PCD and wish that every child could have that kind of caring classroom and individual attention that I received from PCD, Deerfield, Princeton and Penn.”

1956

Robert “Bob” Dorf bdorf@slifer.net

After the deadline for the past Journal, I received a note from Peter Moock. “I am sad to report the passing yesterday of our long-time dear friend and PCD classmate, David Smoyer I spoke today with Mary, who asked that I let you know. I’ll leave it to you as our class secretary to notify the rest of the class as well as the PDS Alumni Office.

“Next weekend will be the 65th reunion of David’s and my graduation from Phillips Academy Andover, where he and I went after PCD and where we roomed together in our junior year. I twisted David’s (and especially Mary’s!) arm five years ago, and they agreed to go with Joyce and me to our 60th Andover reunion. David had begun to show signs, but his dementia was not yet that far along. He clearly enjoyed the time spent with classmates, who all remembered his quick wit and remarked on his proficiency both in the classroom and on the playing fields.

“I’m happy to have spent a few hours with David just over a month ago, visiting him at the Sunrise Senior Living facility in Newton, Mass. Alastair (my son) was with me, and Mark (David’s son, up from NY) and Mary were there, too. We had a grand time reminiscing about good (and funny) times spent together over the years — at PCD, at Andover, in France between David’s and my junior and senior years at Dartmouth and Williams (with David on the back of my motorcycle as we made trips from Paris to Switzerland and Denmark), and in the many years since. David’s eyes would light up as we talked about this or that, but he

wasn’t speaking a lot by then. In earlier visits, Alastair had brought his guitar, and we would sing together. David, whose French was always better than mine, remembered all the words of La Marseillaise.

“David’s passing comes way too soon, but he was ready to go. He was good-natured about it, but he hated that his short-term memory was so bad. He was better at remembering events and people at PCD, where we all met over 70 years ago, than about what he had done or been told earlier that morning.”

How great it was to have had such a longlasting friendship. Our class gets smaller.

1957

James “Tim” Carey tim_carey@nobles.edu

Hello out there! I decided a month ago that I would make a more concerted effort to contact some of our former classmates, those we have not heard about for a long time. I emailed and sent letters to the addresses the school gave me. The results have been overwhelmingly positive. The one exception is that Dick Rotnem died on the first of March. I had looked for him over a number of years and happened to see his obituary in the Boston Globe last week. After graduating from Lawrenceville, Dick attended Cornell where he played both football and hockey. He lived in New Canaan, CT, Weston, Mass., and retired to Harpswell, Maine. He worked at First National City Bank in New York and then Harris-Upham Investments. After working through a series of mergers, Dick retired from Morgan Stanley. Dick continued to play hockey in Boston and even coached at Fessenden School. In retirement, he became a registered Maine Guide and taught kayaking for L.L. Bean. He also served as a volunteer at the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath, ME. Dick leaves his wife, Mary Ellen Keller, and four children.

On a happier note, I got a note from Howard Bushnell, who is, like most of us, “hobbling around,” but boasts that he has been “free (unemployed)” for over half of his life. His adventures have been agricultural, literary, musical, artistic, financial, and social. “Suffice it to say, I went for this ‘life’ condition thing and squeezed it dry.” No regrets. He ended with this note: “I feel that our generation hit the apogee of civilization where everything was possible for those who went for it.” Howard published a book in 1979, “Maria Malibran, A Biography of the Singer,” one of the greatest singers of the 19th century.

I received a long and wonderful letter from Fritz Mock, with whom “Pony,” Hugh Wise and I rode bikes to PCD each day. He

mentioned the glorious memory of skating on black ice on Carnegie Lake. Talk about a man who has lived his life on his own terms, Fritz is that person. After two years as a city planner, he “dropped out.” Over his lifetime, he has worked as a hunting guide, a Checker Cab driver in Denver, a shrimper in Texas, a construction worker, a bricklayer, a mason, and a truck farmer. Many of these jobs were in Colorado, where he lives with his wife, Debbie, but he ventured to Arizona, California and Wyoming as well. Fritz recalled his long and close friendship with Steve Crawford, and as veterans, they showed their opposition to the Vietnam War in the massive march in Washington in 1971. He later visited the Vietnam Memorial with Steve and saw Billy Smoyer ’60’s name etched there. There is much else to add, but time and space keep me from doing so. I will add that one of the things I loved about the letter was that Fritz wrote it in perfect handwriting and with that upbeat, humble, and creative quality he possessed as a kid and still does. Six pages! Not sure everyone in the class would be able to do that!

I also received a long note from Darien Gardner, who graduated from Princeton High School and eventually Haverford College. He took time off from college to learn Spanish and travel through Texas, Mexico, Central and South America. Following graduation, he taught English in India on a Fulbright. Upon his return, he earned a master’s at Lehigh in Information Retrieval and a second master’s at Michigan in Computer and Communication Sciences. Moving to Cambridge, Mass., Darien “had a religious experience,” read the Bible from “cover to cover,” and started attending Protestant churches. He worked as a software engineer and contract programmer. He has been a follower of the historian, Carroll Quigley and has written extensively on Quigley’s theories. Darien now lives in Northampton, Mass.

Last evening, I had a long conversation with Morgan Shipway, who still lives in Avon, Conn. He retired in 2016 from teaching English and Art History at The Westminster School. Morgan has three children, two by a

A photo by Tim Carey PCD’57 taken on his visit to Rwanda.

first marriage and a third with his present wife, Louise. Charlie, his oldest, is a former Olympic sailor who teaches sailing and does carpentry on Martha’s Vineyard. His daughter, Aubrey, lives in New York and creates films to launch new drugs for pharmaceutical companies. Emmet, his youngest, is a filmmaker as well and also is known for being a professional ultimate frisbee player in Seattle. Morgan is an avid walker who had a hip replaced after running 28 marathons and a vast number of road races. He has kept track of his running/walking life mileage and indicates that he has traveled 78,000 miles to date. In addition to all that travel, he and Louise have journeyed extensively in Europe and South America.

Word from Bill Smith is that he and his wife’s “last trip was to Lisbon — on a cruise. These days, our focus is on the grandchildren. Zack is now working for Google in New York in the AI Department, and granddaughter Alessandra is attending film school at New York University.”

Harrison Fraker and his wife, Molly, recently traveled to England, Scotland and Sweden. With his new knee in place, he can walk, take hikes, and play tennis. 82 is the new 60! “Also, I have reconnected with Stafford Keegin, and I saw Joe Wright during our family wedding weekend on Nantucket at the end of our trip in October. All I can say is there is no comparison to childhood and growing up with friends who knew you in such formative years. It is wonderful to see how they have matured and yet stayed true to their youthful beginnings.”

Andy Harris reported that “Sue and I are healthy, active, and engaged in Oregon politics. We enjoy foreign travel several times a year, including Cancun in February, Sicily in April, and Banff in July. Seven grandchildren otherwise keep us busy and exhausted.”

Adam Hochschild indicated that he has no new books out, but he continues to teach at the Berkeley School of Journalism. Adam’s webpage has links to articles that he publishes from time to time.

Staff Keegin noted that, like many of us, he has “come of an age where my balance isn’t worth a damn. So, the only smart thing I could do was sell my wonderful yawl. It was a sad day indeed. It had taken me far and wide…. I have nephews in South Africa. My wife and I, with my oldest daughter, Hillary, who lives in France, and lads (my only two grandsons), met in Cape Town and then went north to the bush. No gorillas like the one you took a picture of, but just about everything else. We are all planning to be in France this summer.” He also noted that he had lunch with Harrison, who has an architecture book coming out at some point.

Joe Wright is living full-time on Nantucket, but

he is making a foray to Brooklyn to celebrate Grandparents’ Day at his grandson’s school. I am planning to have lunch with Joe in May. Rob Kuser noted that “Mary Kay and I took our daughter, Katherine, and her family to Alaska in August. Fantastic trip! We hiked and kayaked every day.”

I, Tim, remain active, volunteering at a number of places. The highlight of the past few months was a trip to Rwanda where we spent time visiting the Genocide Museum, an NBA supported basketball program for girls, Shooting Touch, that exists only in Rwanda and Boston, and a school, Agahozo Shalom Youth Village, founded ten years after the genocide in 1994 and modeled after a similar school in Israel following the Holocaust. Inspiring in every way. We also had the good fortune to visit the Mountain Gorillas and spend an hour with them. Extraordinary creatures who remind us in so many ways where we came from.

I want to close with thanks to all of you who contributed to this note. I love getting the news and hearing from our childhood friends from nearly sixty and seventy years ago. Their words take us back to what I hope was a happy time for us all. Stay safe and well until next time when I bug you for information.

1958

Gordon “Toby” Knox toby@tobyknox.com

The latest from Sandy Kirkpatrick: “My oldest son, David, just celebrated his 30th anniversary with Collegiate Licensing Corporation in Atlanta. He was producer of “Jimmy Carter: Rock and Roll President,” and also involved in the production of (the unfortunately named, as it has turned out) “Carville: Winning is Everything, Stupid,” both streaming on Max. He also co-founded and is chairman of a group that has, so far, built or rebuilt four schools in Kenya. Second son, Taylor, heads a family office with midwestern farming interests and is a trustee of the University of Denver. Third son, Tim, a rancher in Yampa, Colorado, is owner of the 100+ year-old Antlers Cafe and Bar in Yampa, as well as a restaurant to be opened this summer in neighboring Phippsburg, Colorado.”

David Stewart reported: “Finally retiring from my post-retirement job — 16 years full-time on the Georgetown University Law Center faculty teaching international law — joined after retiring from the Department of State, actually, counting 25+ years before that on the Law Center adjunct faculty, it’s a total of 41+ at Georgetown. Will miss the students, but not the commute, the faculty meetings, or the grading of papers and exams. Now, to sit back and yell at the TV...”

And from Toby Knox: For us, last year ended and 2025 began in Southern California. Christmas week was spent in Palm Springs with our daughters and son’s families. The three granddaughters loved swimming on Christmas Day. For the month of January, Kathryn and I rented a condo in Indian Wells. It became a refuge when our son, Andrew, his wife, Catherine, and their four-year-old daughter, Charlie, had to evacuate from West Hollywood due to the threat of a nearby fire. In October, my left knee was replaced, joining the right one, so now I have two bionic knees. I find it hard to believe that the PCD class of 1958 graduated sixty-seven years ago, but I also can’t believe that many of us are eighty-two. It seems like yesterday that Jobe and other speedy “Whites” were outpacing slower “Blues” like me in the annual White vs. Blue races at Hobey Baker Rink. Best wishes to all classmates, no matter which color your PCD blood ran.

1959

Stephen “Steve” Cook stevecook566@gmail.com

1960

Karl “Pepper” Pettit pettitk@wpunj.edu

I’d like to begin these notes with an appeal to my fellow classmates. Of our thirteen original ninth-grade classmates, I know we’ve sadly lost Billy Smoyer, Peter Hart, and Johnny Brinkerhoff over the years. That suggests that there should be ten of us who are still alive and kicking. Of these ten, I’ve been in somewhat recent contact with Brock Putnam, Jonny Howland and Murad (Fred) Sayen

I’ve also been in very recent contact with Davy David, Alex Patton, and Pete Wood, who left our tight-knit group at the end of their eighthgrade year. Others who left before the ninthgrade year include Bloxy Baker (deceased), Roger Fagan, Ray Goodrich, Tommy and Teddy Goodridge, David Green, Jay Kerr, Doug Mackie, Roger Marcus, Brad Mount, and Tommy Reynolds (deceased).

So, all this being said, I’m making an appeal to Jimmy Aul, Walter Edwards, Burtie Jackson, Larry Kuser, Johnny Odden, Peter Wright, Roger Fagan, Ray Goodrich, Tommy & Teddy Goodridge, David Green, Jay Kerr, Doug Mackie, Roger Marcus, and Brad Mount to get in touch with me In other words…where are you and what’s going on??

I do know:

Davy Davis lives in Cambridge, Mass., with his dear wife, Tink. They also have a beautiful

farm in Essex, Mass. Jonny and Liz Howland are living in Marion, Mass. Alex Patton and his wife, Pog, live in NYC. Murad and Abby Sayen live in South Paris, Maine. Brock Putnam and his wife are living in Connecticut.

As for me, I’ve been living in New Hope, Pa., for twenty-seven years where my wife, Kay, passed away in 2019. I’m still gainfully employed as the director of capital planning, design, and construction at William Paterson University in Wayne, N.J.; however, I plan to finally retire in September.

1961

Peter Raymond peterh.raymond@protonmail.com

1962

John Gaston jmgaston3@gmail.com

Members of the Princeton Country Day School Class of 1962 gathered in Washington, D.C. over the summer to commemorate the establishment of the The John Gaston PCD’62 and Rod Myers PCD’62 Scholarship Fund in honor of John Gaston PCD’62 and Rod Meyers PCD’62, made possible through the generosity of classmates: John F. McCarthy PCD’62, Paul S. Vogel PCD’62 and Richard H. Eckels PCD’62.

The PCD experience included students, staff, and faculty, each group as important as the other. Remembering those days, our friends and fellow students made up much of our PCD experience, but without a great staff and faculty, the PCD culture couldn’t have existed. Clearly, it was the faculty that made it all work. So, here’s to the masters who gave us the ability to face an ever-changing world.

Anyone who attended First Form in those days experienced Mr. Gorman. He taught us to say, “May I” rather than “Can I.” I think it was Alan Wood who kept saying, “Can I go to the bathroom?” Wood sat there until he finally said, “May I,” and then bolted for the washroom. Some of the guys weren’t used to saying “Sir.” Mr. Gorman made sure no one moved on to Second Form until everyone in the First Form began each reply with “Sir.”

Mr. McCaughan taught mainly Second Formers in English, a challenging time for 10-year-olds, but he was the most patient, understanding instructor for struggling young guys. He even gracefully took us through penmanship. Imagine how difficult that was.

Mr. and Mrs. Griggs both taught at PCD. Mrs. Griggs taught Third Form math, and as I remember, she was the only woman Master we had. She was always calm and respectful and was responsible for heightening my interest in numbers.

Mr. McAneny was a seriously respected Master for good reason. He taught Upper Formers with an extraordinary, steady delivery that held our attention and made every challenge interesting and understandable. When I have been with other classmates over the years, we always seem to come around to talking about Mr. McAneny.

Mr. Lea had the difficult task of teaching Latin to Fifth and Sixth Formers. Latin is one of those courses that everyone was apprehensive about, but Mr. Lee made every effort to make it fun, and he had the presence and physical stature to keep our attention.

Mr. Robson was known as the “Mad Scientist.” His experiments in the lab often went awry, but we all loved that class. We never knew what to expect, especially when one day a piece of exposed phosphorus emptied the entire school onto Broadmead.

The Right Reverend Smythe. What can we say about this Master who taught French? Rev Smythe had the difficult chore of trying to teach French without a language lab, plus we were Fourth Formers, the worst of the worst. Rev Smythe survived by giving many of us multiple French numbers to write out hundreds of times, but we learned enough French to make future language courses much easier.

Mr. Whitehead dealt mainly with the remaining guys left in the Sixth Form. I don’t know how he managed with the likes of Vogel, Myers, and McCarthy. The stories from that year prove that only Mr. Whitehead could have survived the test of Sixth Formers.

So, here’s to the PCD faculty. They gave us their knowledge, wit, understanding, and so much more. They changed our lives and helped produce a more perfect future for all of us.

Thank you!

1963

John Ritchie jhnritchie@yahoo.com

An advertisement for Miss Gildner’s Preparatory School, which operated at 89 Rosedale Road from 1922-1929.

Jack McCarthy PCD’62, Rod Myers PCD’62, John Gaston PCD’62, and Rick Eckels PCD’62 in Washington, D.C.

1964

William Ring mwmaverick@gmail.com

Donald Woodbridge maderacito@yahoo.com

PRINCETON DAY SCHOOL

1966

Deborah Hobler dvhobler@cox.net

I was surprised to learn that in the 1920s, in addition to Miss Fine’s, there was another private girls’ school in Princeton, Miss Gildner’s Princeton School for Girls, originally called The School of Four Seasons. The school was housed in what is now known as the “Rosedale House,”

at 89 Rosedale Road. Built by Barker Gummere in 1914 across the street from what is now Constitution Hill West, the school existed from approximately 1922-1929.

Unlike Miss Fine’s School, Miss Laura M. Gildner, who was the school principal, and despite her Juilliard training, offered domestic science classes. Miss Fine would never have done that to her students!

Galey Bissell Sergio-Castelvetere wrote that she and Max moved from Marin to San Clemente in 2016 to be closer to their son, Alexander, daughter-in-law Kristin, a nd their two children, who live about ten minutes away. Galey and Max used to winter in Baja California Sur in Mexico. Galey enjoys painting, reading, cooking and exercising. This sounds like a good lifestyle for any of us. And we offer congratulations on her and Max’s 50th wedding anniversary, which they celebrated in May of 2024.

Sally Harries Gauldie reported that CanadianAmerican relations have been heating up beyond her comfort levels. And she had no wish to become an American citizen, no matter how many times someone says it will be our 51st state. During the holidays all ten of the Gauldies went to son, Steve’s, and his wife, Sam’s, home for Christmas, and then on Boxing day, Jack’s cousins came to the Gauldie’s home for chili and Christmas goodies — after playing a crazy golf game with one club and a tennis ball. Go figure!

Patience Morgan-Irigoyen reported that she and Mario now have a grandson named Theo, born in 2023.

Dale Marzoni Kellogg wrote: “Here is my 2024 by the numbers.” I was exhausted after reading everything Dale did last year! 220 virtual skating tests judged, and two local competitions judged; 20 quilts finished, half for community service; 15 chamber music concerts ushered; one week wearing a Holter monitor (completely normal result on reading heart); she went to Denver two times and San Diego once; two quilting classes and one retreat; 365 days of family, friends and loving life in Santa Fe! And Dale mentioned that she “loved, loved the special edition of the Journal with all the ephemera!!”

I believe that all of us were knocked out by the 2024 summer PDS Journal. Its design and collection of historical documents and photos were terrific. I particularly liked the envelope enclosure with copies of letters, postcards, and the wonderful letter to Molly Dorf from Robert Oppenheimer. This PDS Journal is a keeper.

Margery Cuyler Perkins published yet another book last year, “Addy McBean: Numbers Queen.” She wrote that it was fun to write about a second-grade math whiz who runs into more problems to solve than just math ones. And now there is a sequel, “Addy McBean, Time Out.” Margery was inspired to create Addy after visiting a second-grade classroom and seeing how creatively math is taught today. (I would never be able to keep up now!) She and Jan celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on August 23, 2024. Congratulations on your long-term partnership!

Galey Bissell Sergio-Castelvetere ’66 and her husband, Max, with their grandchildren

Patience Morgan-Irigoyen ’66’s grandson. What a doll!

New books published by Margery Cuyler Perkins ’66

Margery Cuyler Perkins ’66 and her husband, John, at their wedding in 1979.

Katherine Becker wrote: “On September 25 and 26 of 2024, I lived through a perfect storm of an intense tropical depression that dropped 13 inches of rain in Asheville, NC, a few hours followed immediately by Hurricane Helene (another 20 inches of rain), which blew across seven states as a category four storm with sustained winds of 140 MPH. I live in a forested area and every one of our small roads had enormous trees down. We were blocked in for a couple of days, but the city of Asheville was devastated. I was lucky to have power restored after a week, but no water at all for three weeks, and portable water did not return to the city for 74 days. I was out of food and water for the first four days. Kind friends in NJ put me on a search and rescue list that led to six police officers pounding on my front door, asking about my welfare. They provided me with water and MREs. Houses, livestock, property, and people were swept away during these storms — there are approximately 400 people still missing. Ashville’s economy dropped to 30%, but business is slowly returning. The term ‘hurricane grief’ was coined, and we get flashbacks when a rainstorm occurs. I have lived here for ten years and despite the hurricane hardship and tragedy, I’ve become more committed than ever to living here with this culture. We are mountain strong!!!” Several of our classmates, including me, were in touch with Katherine soon after the storm, we couldn’t get through to her at first, and despite everything she had been through, she clearly is a trooper!

Christine Clark Kerr wrote that she had a great summer. “One of the highlights was being

within 10 feet of Roger Federer, who visited Dartmouth for an honorary degree. He is as charming and handsome as EVER. He also visited Storrs Pond in Hanover where I coached this past summer, which is how I came to be so close to him. I went back to coaching for a fee this past summer. I coached two different women’s teams in Hanover who compete against other teams in the area. Both of the teams were successful against the other teams, and we all had lots of fun and much improvement.

“I had trigger finger surgery on my right hand in September. Cramped my style...tennis and paddle tennis on hold for five weeks.

“In November, my emergency brake failed and began to roll down a friend’s driveway. I tried to jump in and stop it, but I was too late. I was dragged by the car when, thankfully, a man saw what was happening and jumped into my car and stopped it. He saved my life. After five weeks of visiting nurses and wound care,

I am now recovered and back to biking and paddle tennis.

“Sadly, on December 21, I experienced the death of my younger sister, Jennifer Clark, who had attended Miss Fine’s School, received a BA from the University of Delaware, and an MS from Northwestern. She had a career in TV broadcasting news in Chicago and Ft. Lauderdale and then worked in real estate in Charleston, S.C., a city she dearly loved. It was a total heartbreak for me. Losing both of my younger sisters (Abigail Clark Ford in 2021) over the past few years has been so sad.”

The Class of ’66 offers our deepest condolences to you and your family, Chris, at this sad loss of Jenny, we hold you in our hearts at this sad time.

Sally Lane continues to work at the Crossroads of the American Revolution Association. It is with sadness that I report that Sally’s husband, Sam Graff, passed away on October 25, 2024. Sam was a noted journalist, and over the years worked at the New York Daily News, Chief Executive Magazine, and was a teacher of journalism at Columbia. He and Sally celebrated their 49th anniversary in May 2024. In addition to Sally, he is survived by his children, Len and Charley, and five

Sally Lane ’66 and her husband, Sam, in 2017

Kirsty Pollard Lieberman ’66 and her husband, Allen, with son Ian, and his bride, Ashley, in 2018

The Class of 1966 Graduates

Pam Erickson MacConnell ’67 and her son, John, in front of his four-seat Cessna plane before a flight to Georgia.

grandchildren. Our class offers our deepest condolences to Sally and her family.

I am sad to announce that Kirsty Pollard Lieberman’s husband, Allen Lieberman, passed away on November 16, 2024. They had been married for 45 years. Allen had an artistic commercial photography business in Princeton for an extended period, Allen Lieberman Studio. She and Allen had been living in Colorado for many years. In addition to Kirsty, Allen is survived by their children, Ian, William and Mackenzie. Our class sends its deepest sympathies to Kirsty and her family.

I answered Mr. Musk’s question of what I had accomplished in the past week. 1. Researched and wrote 1966 class notes. 2. Took my Maine Coon cat, Ruthie, for eye surgery. (She’s fine) 3. Baked carrot pineapple cake for all the plumbers, postmen, generator, and

soft water conditioner techs who came to my house. (Maintenance issues for ME and my house have become more time-consuming) 4. Walked 35 miles — in training for walking to the Canadian border. 5. Spent at least three hours every night swearing at the TV while watching national news. (Have definitely increased my lung power.) Obviously, I did much more, but I thought my answers were sufficient not to lose my job.

I don’t mean to alarm anyone, but next year we will be celebrating our 60th year reunion. This means that PDS is also celebrating its 60th year, as we were the first graduating class. I find this number quite remarkable and know that all of us look quite the same as we did in June 1966. Shall we find out in May 2026?

1967

Susan Fritsch Hunter ares543@comcast.net

News from Julia Lockwood: “We just returned from a month in Malaga, Spain, where we had lots of opportunities to practice our Spanish! We enjoyed the city with its ancient Moorish castle overlooking the busy harbor and its multiple churches and museums, principally the one dedicated to Picasso, as this is his birthplace. We took several trips to the towns of Antequera, Merida, Caceres and Trujillo, and Gibraltar. At the top of the rock, we visited the troop of 200 macaques, originally brought to the area by the Moors as pets, that are now a major tourist draw. We talked with Max and Mary Young Bragado, who were in their home in Alicante, where Max was conducting the local symphony. Unfortunately, it was too far a journey for us to get together.

Hopefully next time.

“Our oldest daughter, Rachel, is still in Boise, Idaho, where she teaches American history at the College of Idaho and is mom to little Sidney, age 18 months. Our middle daughter continues to work in food safety in the fishing industry here in Maine. Our youngest is enrolled in a master’s program in social work at the University of Maine and is planning a wedding this summer at our house!”

Pam Erickson MacConnell wrote: “I visit my daughter in Macon, Georgia, as frequently as possible, but this past year has been a challenge due to back problems. My son, John, flew me up in his plane for a visit and saved me hours of traveling in the car. He came back five days later to take me back home to Florida. Looks like I have a pilot now! Best wishes for a wonderful year to our class of 1967!”

Francoise Foassier wrote: “I spent a fabulous vacation in New England this past September and early October. I stayed at Jo Schlossberg McConaghy’s in Weston, Mass., and Cape Cod (with Bill, of course). I stayed at Sue Fritsch Hunter’s in Plymouth (with ‘her’ Bill, of course), and I also stayed with David Blair ’63 in New Hampshire. It was exceptional, staying with such great friends…since 1967!

“Apart from that, I have six grandchildren, ranging in age from 12 to 25, and I’m very busy walking, travelling, and learning Spanish. If you travel to Bordeaux, France, give me a c all at +33 671 032660 or email me at ffoassier@gmail.com.”

Jo Schlossberg McConaghy ’67 (l) and Susan Fritsch Hunter ’67 (r) hosted Francoise Foassier ’67 this past fall in Massachusetts.

Susan Fritsch Hunter ’67 and Francoise Foassier ’67 strolling last September in a nature preserve in Plymouth, Mass.

Julia Lockwood ’67 posed with “Picasso” in Spain.

Julia Lockwood ’67’s grandson, Sid, is all smiles.

As for me (Susan Fritsch Hunter), it was great to host Francoise this past fall. She’s an intrepid traveler! We gave her the Plymouth, Mass., tour and went walking at nearby nature preserves and along the Cape Cod Canal. It was also great to see Jo and Bill McConaghy and to re-connect Francoise with my daughter, Lauren, and to introduce her to my grandchildren.

1968

Sophia “Sia” Godfrey Bauer sbauer2086@gmail.com

Mary Hobler Hyson bassett7750@cox.net

Hello PDS Class of ’68, Sia Godfrey Bauer called me in the fall with the sad news that her husband, Charles, passed away. Charles, an honorary member of our class, was often involved with our reunions. Sia said: “It is with a heavy heart that I write that my husband, Charles, passed away on August 14 after a brief illness. The family had all been together in July for a belated 80th birthday celebration — how fortunate we are to have had that time.”

I heard from Rick Ross: “A belated Happy New Year! Judy and I were at home for Christmas and New Year’s. Then off to Pebble Beach — glorious weather and better golf. We finished in Sausalito, near brother Mark and family. Coastal Sonoma County is another world, where cattle

ranches and Trump signs abound. We are off to Barbados for the second half of February. Then to Naples to extend the warmer weather.”

Lisa Lawrence and I text one another often. We like to share our ideas, one artist to another. She submitted her painting, “Sunset over Taos,” for the Master Works Expo in Albuquerque this spring. Lisa remarked that it would be good to win some dinero! Good luck, Lisa!

John Claghorn went fishing in Patagonia. He is working with the Rockefeller Global Family Office, and he is “still trying to sell my kids — no takers.”

Beth Schlossberg wrote: “After 40 years in Manhattan, I’m packing my bags and moving to Plymouth, Mass. A lifestyle change to be closer to friends, family, and nature has been brewing for a couple of years now, and I found a wonderful community at Rowen at The Pinehills. Walking trails and beaches, and all the while continuing my work via telehealth… Yep, Charlie and I are definitely psyched for our next adventure. Cheers!”

Annie Fulper wrote: “I recently published a story in the Journal of the American Art Pottery Association. I’ve performed this one aloud a couple of times, so some of you may know it, so search for annefulper.com and enjoy.”

Gillian Gordon’s news: “I am just recovering

from a total knee replacement, which is going well. We are living in East Hampton but have been spending lots of time between LA and London where the grandkids live. I am an Adjunct Professor of Screenwriting and Producing at Brooklyn College Film School, which I really enjoy. I am writing a memoir and working on a screenplay. I recently produced a play about a woman whaling captain and continue to executive produce various projects. I had a very nice lunch with Andy Fishman and his lovely wife in Los Angeles last summer. Great to catch up with him!”

From John Taylor: “Greetings from the lower Hudson Valley. We are still working on several interesting projects: another book on our old friend, the Parisian jeweler Frédéric Zaavy, a book on a family homestead here on the river, and several books for a new client with a collection of seven homes. We were recently asked to give a talk on our career of 50+ years, which caused us to finally reflect on so many stories and adventures that we have been privileged to experience. Maybe our own book is in the future?”

Punky Brewster Rutledge wrote: “Kerry and I are both happily retired. (How would we ever be able to make it to our medical appointments otherwise, or be able to remain on hold as we try to schedule them?) Our two rescues, Tux

Punky Brewster Rutledge ’68 with her husband, Kerry, and their rescue pups

Rick Ross ’68 and his wife at Bodega Bay, where Hitchcock’s “The Birds” was filmed

“Sunset over Taos” by Lisa Lawrence ’68

The fish that John Claghorn ’68 caught in Patagonia.

Faron Daub Fahy ’68’s grandchildren with her son, Sawyer and his wife, Stephanie

and Cay, enjoy the majority of our attention and get frequent walks — great for all of us. Kerry continues to referee high school football and softball, which he has done for many years and loves. I am secretary of the Democratic Town Committee in Bolton (CT) and have been a poll worker for the past four years. In 2023, I became a Certified Zentangle teacher and spend as much time as I can in my converted home-office-studio with pens, pencils, paper tiles, and watercolor. Erin, our oldest, graduated from the local community college (my alma mater and also her brother’s) last spring and is now working for the college in the guidance office. Luke is in his thirteenth year as a respiratory therapist at Hospital for Special Care in New Britain. And Brendan, our grandson, turned 17 in September, has his driver’s license, and sings in four chorus groups at his high school. We are lucky and grateful to have all three of them close enough to go out for pizza together, along with their significant others, every Sunday. At this moment, I’m glad to be a Connecticut resident and voter — even the small, purple town I live in favored the capable and sane candidate last November. Sending best wishes all around.”

In the last year, I, your Class Secretary, have also

had the pleasure of speaking/texting/e-mailing with Faron Daub Fahy, Connie Sayen Ban, Leigh Keyser Phillips, Lynnie Behr Sanford, Joe Chandler, Susan Koch LaTulippe, and Joan Wadelton.

For myself, the highlight of the year was time spent together in Maine in August with the entire Hyson clan, Eric and me, our three children and spouses, and all six grandkids. One week was with the family, and one week for just the two of us to recover!

Most of us in our Class of ’68 are now about 75 years old! Glad to hear that most of us are doing pretty well, still making life memories.

1969

Beverly Bevis Jones beverly@bbjonespr.com

We were so sorry to learn the news that our classmate, Candy Boyajian DeSantes, passed away this past December.

After PDS, Candy studied European History at Vassar College, graduating in 1973. Upon completion of college, Candy began her career in reinsurance in New York City. In 2014, Candy retired as senior vice president with Willis Re.

Candy and Bob DeSantes married in 1987, and after two years in California, settled in Westport, Conn., before moving to Greensboro, N.C., in 2006. Candy and Bob have two daughters, Jessica and Candace “Robbie.”

We send our heartfelt condolences to Bob, Jessica, Robbie, other family members, and her friends.

Mary Hobler Hyson ’68 and family in Maine this past summer

Robert Rathauser ’69’s son, Jonathan (r) with Stan Harris and Susan Denise Harris ’69

Jonathan Rathauser and his bride, Sapir, at their wedding in Tel Aviv on March 31, 2024, with his parents Bob Rathauser ’69 and Debra Rathauser

Susan Denise Harris ’69 and Cintra Huber McGauley ’70 with Cintra’s grandson, Anton Sedalik, at a Sunday Social at the home of Mac Langley in Old Village, Charleston, SC. Mac was the roommate of Betsy Bristol Sayen ’69 post-college in Charlottesville, VA

Margaret Meigs ’70 with her son and his new wife, and Margaret’s daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren

Henry Huleatt, grandson of Meg Brinster Michael ’70

Ann Wiley awileyemail@gmail.com

Margaret Meigs sent: “I did some great travel in 2024 — three weeks in Vietnam, a trip/ cruise to Turkey and Greece this fall, a week in London at Thanksgiving. Plus, lots of fun at the beach with family.

“My son, Nick, was married on January 11. His bride, Hence Musika, emigrated here from Indonesia. The wedding itself was in a tiny South Philly church deep in the heart of the Indonesian community here. Reception was at a nearby venue catered by an Indonesian restaurant. It was very fun. My granddaughters were flower girls and grandsons ring bearers.

“Cheers to the class of ’70!”

Meg Brinster Michael wrote: “I finally joined the ranks of grandparenthood last June! Meet Henry Huleatt. His mom, Alexis, is a managing director at Hines in NYC so I get to see baby Henry often.

“Meanwhile, Spencer, who is a landscape architect, lives and works in Oslo, Norway; Caroline lives in Seattle while studying to get a degree in audio production. Sadly, I don’t get as much time with either of them.

“Among other things, I continue to ‘curate’ the art space at the Nassau Club and recently showed many beautiful watercolors by former PDS Middle School teacher Hank Bristol ’72.

Allison Gilbert Kozicharow sent memories of those early days of Princeton Day School when we were eighth graders: “Other than the Mrs.

Roberts’ poster event, the highlight of that year in my memory was the eighth-grade girls’ trip to Washington, DC. Every time I drive near the Key Bridge Marriott, I think of the mayhem we caused there. Ours was the last year the eighth-grade girls took that trip, ending a Miss Fine’s School tradition. I always wondered how our bus driver survived the constant volume of Cousin Brucie radio and our much-repeated renditions of ‘A Hundred Bottles of Beer on the Wall!’

“Other than being saddened by the state of our country, my family and I are doing well. Time racing by — my older granddaughter is turning 12! I continue to see Hilary Martin regularly, and we often reminisce about Miss Fine’s and PDS.”

Rett Campbell wrote: “Kids, grandkids, pets, yard, house, community service, Facebook, TV, travel, reading, riding, dining out, beach, movies, friends, hobbies, investments, genealogy, coffee…did I miss anything?

“One detail: I went to Scotland last year, to visit Inverary Castle, which is the home of the Duke of Argyll, the Chief of Clan Campbell. At the entry, I was greeted with, ‘Welcome home, Sire.’ One could become accustomed to such things.

“I went all around the Highlands, down to the Mull of Kintyre (Paul was not home), Campbeltown, Skye, Inverary, Oban, Inverness,

Stirling, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. When I returned the rental car, the man looked at the miles and gasped, ‘Where have you been?”’

Pam Orr Marck sent news: “Although we usually spend half the year on the west coast of Florida, Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused us to stay a bit longer at our Cape Cod home this fall. Once power was restored, we flew down to find that, except for damage to the landscaping and some exterior wind damage, our home was spared. Anna Maria Island, however, looked like a war zone, and I don’t think it will ever be the same again.

“This year was a big travel year for us. After spending a week in Central America with friends, Jack and I celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary with a trip to Portugal, Spain and Morocco and a cruise around Nova Scotia. After Christmas, we spent a week exploring Kauai, and then our youngest daughter, Hilary, and her husband joined us for a week in Maui. They are expecting their second daughter in late April, so a trip to Maui, which is so special to our family, made the perfect ‘babymoon!’ (Where were ‘babymoons’ when we all had our children?!) This grandbaby will be #six, and since everyone lives within one to two hours of our Cape house, family gatherings, kids’ sporting events, and a good bit of babysitting here and there keep us busy the six months we are up there.

Bob Peck ’70 with his family

Rett Campbell ’70 in Scotland

Diane Erickson ’70 with her “saved” painting

“When we’re not traveling or tied up with family events, I keep engaged by teaching water classes, playing tennis, and promoting my book with school visits, book signings, library presentations and occasional vendor events. The book, “Jamani’s Lucky Day: Searching for Endangered Gorillas,” is available on Amazon, or you can get signed paperback or deluxe hardcover copies inscribed with a personal message by contacting me through jamanisluckyday.com. We are donating the profits to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

“Except for too many doctors’ appointments (for minor issues, fortunately) that’s about all the news from here!”

Diane Erickson reported: “It has been quite an intense past year. It was joyful to celebrate TWO 50-year university reunions (Hollins University for the first two years and Stetson University for the last two). Both reunions had the most students return.

“After that, disaster struck. I had just ordered all of the prints and cards that I needed for the Fall Festival of the Arts and the Stetson reunion when Uncle Milton dropped 18 inches of rain, and two large retention ponds burst. We awakened to the sound of water going down the drain in the roll-in shower. We got up and packed a very few things, and by the time we got out the door, the water was at my knees. We hiked up to a neighbor who was dry. The toxic liquid rose to 39 inches inside the house.

“I begged my nephew to rescue an oil painting commission that I had completed and tossed on

the dining room table. He called from the house and said, “The good news, Aunt Diane, is that your dining table floats.” $6,000 SAVE. The painting now hangs in the Wine Bar.

“Although we live in a non-flood area, Don did get flood insurance. So, after four months and four days, a check arrived to rebuild the house from the studs out.

“It had been a difficult journey, but we have been blessed with friends and family (particularly my nephew, who found us a house to rent next door to him.”

Lindsey Hicks sent an update: “Hello all, I hope you all are well. Here’s some news from the early childhood education field. I retired from my elementary special education position of many years and began research at Project Zero, a research center at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. I recently concluded a study, Envisioning Innovation in Education, working with secondary teachers in Hong Kong

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around innovation in practice. I am currently involved in a new initiative, Reimagining Early Childhood Education (RECEPZ). Funded by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, the initiative is a six-year research study that includes a global field study of early childhood education and four years of collaborative inquiry with a cohort of early childhood teachers in Abu Dhabi, with the goal of co-creating of a new framework and training program for early childhood education in Abu Dhabi and beyond. My time is split between New York and Boston, where my son, Nick, and family live.

The struggle for equity, social justice, and peace continues.”

Lisa Warren and her husband with their daughter, Rachel ’13, and her new husband

Rebecca Ramsey ’71 with her brothers, Bob ’68 (l) and Rick ’80 (r).

By the time you read this, I (Ann Wiley) will have returned from a 10-day trip to Scotland. And there is a PDS connection. Who remembers when we were seniors when a group of Scottish students visited PDS and stayed in some of our homes??? My Scottish student, Moira, and I are still very good friends. Although she now lives in North Carolina, she lived in Yardley, Pa., when she first moved to the US. This year her family is participating in the Selkirk (Moira’s hometown) Common Riding, so another friend and I are going and including the Selkirk Common Riding, we are scheduled to take a four-day trip to the Highlands and the Isle of Skye, and a day trip to St. Andrews.

1971

Blythe Kropf blythekropf5@gmail.com

Thomas Worthington worthington_tom@yahoo.com

Lisa Warren reported: “I have been mostly consumed with wedding planning and now with the PDS mock trial team. Our daughter, Rachel ’13, got married in Atlanta in September. The PDS team, which I co-coach, won the Central Jersey regional competition; we head into the State semi-finals. I am very excited about an upcoming trip, long in the planning, to Kenya on a photo safari.”

David Claghorn sent his best wishes to everyone: “How GREAT is this retired thing, right?? Update:

• About 95% retired — still doing some consulting.

• LOTS of games and hobbies to keep me busy — golf, tennis, paddle tennis, padel, fly fishing, and softball leagues.

• Six grandchildren. My wife and I are on call for babysitting, somehow almost every week.

• I fell dead on a tennis court in August 2021.

My life was saved by two cardiologists/angels who just happened to be playing on the court next to me. Quadruple bypass followed, and I feel fine today. I got a second chance…

• My wife and I travel regularly — to name a few: Italy, Croatia, Palm Springs, NYC regularly for Broadway shows, Phillies spring training, and numerous National Parks.

• Some old Princeton friends (including Tony Dale) gather annually in Florida for our ‘Senior Spring Break’

• My PDS memories are all sports-related, so I’m sure no one is interested. I do wonder occasionally what ever happened to John Ivors.”

Jane Cross added: “I am well, living in Northampton, Mass., with my husband of 40 years. One daughter and two grandsons (ages two and six) live in town, so, yes, lots of babysitting. One daughter and granddaughter (age five) live in Maine. Not too far. Still loving the outdoors, hiking, gardening, as well as lots of friends and community. Looking for the right volunteer task, as traveling to provide pediatric care overseas feels like too much now.”

Rebecca Ramsey wrote: “We live in Vermont now, and it’s been very snowy, which doesn’t bother me. It’s so beautiful. Presently, we are in Fort Collins, Colo., until May, visiting with Leigh and her family and doing as much babysitting as we possibly can. She has a fouryear-old boy and a two-year-old girl. You know the joy of grandchildren, which is nature’s way of compensating you for the trials of aging. Really, the word joy is overused, but it is how I feel when they smile at me. Sam has two boys, ages four and six, in Somerville, Mass., so we get to see them a lot, and Robin’s daughter, Liz, has two great little boys who now live in Charlotte, N.C. So, I am a traveling grandmother.

“I have seen Paula Zaitz Mostoller and Vicki Willock in last year which was, of course, fun. I’m doing a lot of oil painting, trying to get back into music and doing a little psychiatry, too. The friendships and teachers we had at PDS gave me a sense of myself that has carried me through ‘til today.”

Lastly, from me (Tom Worthington), I visit with Tim Smith, Jeremy Bonner, and Bill Flemer regularly (via Zoom) and can pass along that they are doing great. Bill has moved from Hopewell, deeper into the woods of central Jersey. He continues to play music whenever he can! Jeremy is fully retired and living in Asheville; their home was high enough to escape the devastating floods. Tim remains busy with his various movie and audio productions. Most recently, his documentary “The Calling: A Medical School Journey” about the Albert Einstein College of Medicine aired on Public Television to wonderful reviews.

I caught up with Allyn Love ’70 this past winter on a visit to Raleigh. Allyn consults with the North Carolina Symphony and plays a wide range of bluegrass and Americana music in the Triangle area.

Melissa and I are busy with our four granddaughters and our various volunteer projects. Please let us know if you are ever visiting Minnesota!

1972

John Moore

johnlmoore3@gmail.com

Hello fellow ’72 rock ’n rollers and assorted other classmates. Hoping this finds you feeling good and healthy! I enjoy learning what folks are up to, and feeling a 50+ year connection, but it’s getting depressing when a mere three people

Tom Worthington ’71 (second from r) and his wife, Maggie, visited Allyn Love ’70 (second from l) and his wife, Melissa, in Raleigh this past winter. “Catboats Racing — Barnegat Bay” by Hank Bristol ’72

respond out of a class of 90 or so. Perhaps for whatever reason, classmates are tapped out from sharing a few lines once or twice a year. I do appreciate the prior thanks and acknowledgement for keeping the news flowing and keeping us all connected. I may try one more seasonal outreach, but otherwise, I will be reluctantly signing off from coaxing a brief note or two from you dear readers.

With that said, a HEARTFELT thank you to the three classmates who made an effort to share some news.

Hank Bristol wrote: ‘This year, I had a successful watercolor show at the Nassau Club of 28 works. Got a chance to catch up with many locals at the opening. I continue to split my ‘retirement’ between painting and caring for grandchildren here in Princeton and Portland, Maine.”

Brigid Moynihan is definitely living a full and interesting life! Here’s what she shared…

“John Moore or Trump? Wow, what a lead-in, John! I’ll start my note with that! Thank you for being the one connecting us all these years. It’s through connection I find comfort during these anxious days, watching the radical changes going on with this new government. We’re having supper with Beth Johnson and Turner Price at our place on the Upper West Side in NYC Friday, reaching out to Jody Erdman to see if she might come up from Princeton although it’s short notice. We’ll take comfort in shared company and comfort food (pot roast maybe?). We’re also celebrating my husband, Ray Clarke’s, “Field Work,” his book about life as a field biologist, now out on Amazon. (Sorry, but where else can one go?)

In semi-retirement, I’ve been doing a few things with local theaters here and on the Cape — acting at LaMama and just had one of my

10-minute plays produced at the Provincetown Theater over the weekend. I’m no longer an executive coach, but still helping people with something commonly called ‘life coaching.’ Who am I to coach people about LIFE? Turns out I find it extremely helpful during this time of transition in my own life to be helping people in theirs! I am also now an Irish citizen — I started the process after becoming terrified by “Prophet Song,” a beautiful novel by Paul Lynch, which I read a year ago. Lynch imagines everything that is now happening here in the US, but sets the action in Dublin, where our reign of terror isn’t happening. I have no plans to relocate — too hard to leave family and friends — (of course, that was what the woman in “Prophet Song” said — until the very end).

Despite our disgraceful Mayor and wellpublicized rat problem (they’re not so bad, it’s just the way they scuttle across the sidewalk late at night when you aren’t expecting them), I still love living here just south of Harlem on 106th, around the corner from Central Park. There’s a vital mix of people/classes/nationalities living together and connecting over the dogs they walk and the pickleball they play all year round outdoors in the old handball courts in Central Park. They play all day and in all kinds of weather. It’s a drop-in in so if any classmates are in town and curious or longing for a game, stop by. I loved being a member of our class for my last years of high school. Drop a line if you are in the area of NYC or vacationing up on the Cape this summer.

Anne Robinson: “I am waiting for more tariff toughness to wreak chaos on my business. I import food and gifts from Scotland and some from England.

“My husband of 25 years passed away last November, so I am in the process of cleaning out the house and downsizing into a light-filled

apartment, which I love. I found some essays from PDS days — some I remember writing; others were a complete surprise. Didn’t find the biology notebook with the dissection notes — I remember the progression from the earthworm to the frog and then the fetal pig. Giaff was my lab partner — he did the drawings; I did the cutting. But he was the one who became the surgeon!

“Wondering what other classmates have found as they clear out their home and downsize to a smaller new home. It is certainly one of the phases we are all facing!”

Anne, our condolences to you for the loss of your husband and all that you are going through.

John Moore and his wife are settling into the ebbs and flows of life in coastal Maine, having now lived here for more than a full year. It turns out we landed in the sixth-oldest town in Maine, and demographically, the oldest population in Maine! We also live in one of the oldest houses in the town. A dubious distinction at best! We have three volunteer fire and rescue departments for our little town of Harpswell, due to the geographical layout of the interconnected islands/peninsulas that make up the four main islands (out of 200). Last summer I volunteered to help out in my local, Cundy’s Harbor Fire & Rescue. I now drive a rescue truck/ambulance and do back up assistance at the few fires we have. It feels really good to give back to our little community and to help out those less fortunate who need assistance from literally “lift and assist” after a fall, to taking people to the local hospital, or in grave situations to the hospital in Portland, which is a 50-minute drive down I-95. I enjoy watching (and reliving my past) the local Bowdoin College hockey and lacrosse teams pursue DIIIlevel play. Of course, the natural and rugged beauty of this area are my first love, and there’s something to do and enjoy in every season. Life has slowed and simplified greatly, which allows us to really appreciate what’s genuinely important in our world.

Molly Moynahan ’75 with her husband, Timo Goodric

Molly Moynahan ’75 with family at her son, Luke’s, wedding

1973

Cassandra Oxley cassandra.oxley@gmail.com

1974

Mary “Polly” Hunter White pwhite2224@gmail.com

Walter Poole wrote: “Greetings from Cambodia. My family (my wife, Suni, one son and one daughter) has lived here since 2003. We gave birth to a church in 2006. Our main activities center around maintaining and growing Straight Road Baptist Church. The members are mainly Khmer (the name for the Cambodian people). We often have individuals from various countries join us as well. Other than that, we enjoy all that this wonderful country and the capital city of Phnom Penh have to offer. Our children are about to leave the nest, so that will be a new dynamic in our lives.

“I very much wanted to attend the reunion. I got a special invitation from David Straut (Reunion Committee). But it was hard to justify coming from Cambodia just for the weekend. I tried to think of what else I could accomplish in a two-week visit to combine with the reunion, but the timing did not work out. Though I did not graduate from PDS, my ‘roots’ are there. I will be in New Jersey this summer, and who knows whom I might connect with. I would love to hear from classmates, my email is: wpoole03@yahoo.com.”

1975

Yuki Moore Laurenti ymlaurenti@gmail.com

Mary Sword McDonough mollyswordmcdonough@yahoo.com

By the time this spring Journal is printed and sent, our class will have celebrated our Fiftieth Reunion. In advance of the reunion weekend in May, several classmates shared reflections on their PDS experience, on faculty and staff who made a difference, and on how PDS influenced their life’s trajectory.

Molly Moynahan reported that her son was married two years ago “to a wonderful person.” Molly now lives in northern Michigan, buying a house just before the pandemic, on the gorgeous Leelanau Peninsula. “We live in Leland, about 27 miles north of Traverse City. I am still writing, teaching creative writing and coaching the college personal essay. I have a Substack under The Teachers Way and hope to publish a memoir soon. Peter Sears was the first teacher who encouraged this public-school transplant. He told me I wrote with ‘passion and verve,’ which meant everything.”

Jeff Streed sent a note from Turin, with regrets that he will be overseas in May and unable to join the reunion festivities. “I had so many wonderful teachers in my nine years at PDS. My first teacher, Mrs. Jansen, Mrs. Rothrock, Mr. Cool, Mr. Lott, Mr. McCord, Mr. Jones, who pulled me aside in the hall during the 10th grade to tell me that the faculty was concerned I was drifting off track — and I’d never even met him before! Mrs. Shepherd, Mr. Franz, and, of course, Mrs. Fine. Memories of her brilliance, her humility, her quiet passion for the Classics, and her patience kept with me throughout forty years as a Greek and Latin teacher. I owe her and the rest of them so much.”

While John Brinster wrote he did not have news to speak of, he did mention keeping busy with our Class of ’75 reunion plans. Many thanks to John and the other Reunion Committee members for their efforts.

Kip Herrick and Ruth Barach Cox got together to celebrate a baby shower for Kip’s daughter. “It will be my first grandchild… so another chapter begins!” She added, “When I think of PDS, I think of our field hockey and lacrosse teams, the art classes with Arlene Smith, and the many school plays and musicals we did! Mrs. Conroy’s ‘Where in God’s green earth did you get THAT answer?’ Parry Jones’ bushy eyebrows and getting ‘happiness pills’ from Mrs. William’s office! Most of all, I remember the many friendships that I made with both faculty and students…some of which I still have 50 years later! PDS was special that way.”

“Fifty years is a long time,” wrote Bill McClellan. “PDS was a great place for me. I was free to be me in very tumultuous times. I have been retired from teaching for a couple of years, but continue to work as a Maine Guide and Zamboni driver at our local rink. I have been involved in ice hockey for over 60 years and continue to support the game by coaching beginners under the age of six. At PDS, I helped coach the first girls’ team; Lisa Mittnacht was one of the first players out there in her figure skates and knit gloves. Look at women’s hockey now. There are D1 teams and professional women’s teams! (Ed. Note: The 2024-2025 girls’ ice hockey team won the 2025 NJSIAA Girls Ice Hockey Championships at The Prudential Center in Newark, NJ on 3/10/25.) Speaking of which, my daughter, Kate, has played since she was six, and continues to play hockey. The game has brought me a lot of joy and a sense of purpose. PDS was a large part of that where I played with fellow classmates Ralph Brown and many others. If it had not been for ice hockey and Andy Franz, I might not have made it through high school!”

For me (Yuki), if not for Mrs. Jansen and the third-grade tutor, whose name I have forgotten but spoke with a British accent, I might not have made it to fourth grade. Other teachers and staff who made a difference in my PDS experience include Mrs. Barclay, Mrs. Gilbert,

Ruth Barach Cox ’75 and Kip Herrick ’75 celebrated at Kip’s daughter’s baby shower

Bill McClellan ’75 is still on the ice!

Billy Erdman ’76 and Tom Moore ’76 at the Pan-Mass Challenge Unpaved ride supporting Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Mrs. Vogt, Mrs. Rothrock, Dan Skvir, Mr. van Dusen, Mr. Jacobson, Ginny Stein, Mrs. Brophy, Mr. Denby, Eileen Hohmuth, and Jan Baker. The list goes on, but the text limit doesn’t.

1976

Katharine Kehoe kgkath@verizon.net

Tommy Moore wrote: “As last reported, Bill von Oehsen was renovating a 1700s house in Ipswich, MA. I finally saw him in residence during one of my bike rides and met his great wife, Helen Moore (no relation). Bill looks great, smiling and energetic. Great to reconnect.

“Billy Erdman and I participated in the DanaFarber Cancer Research Pan-Mass Challenge Unpaved ride in October in Lenox, MA. This was my second year, Billy’s third.

“Jeb and Leslie Ring Burns also live nearby, but with Jeb’s passion for wing and kite foiling, along with being grandparents, we don’t see enough of them.”

Amos Harris reported that he is “still living with my family in Granada, Spain. Come visit!! I should add that my family and I stopped in Watch Hill, RI, last summer to visit with my kissing cousin, Cintra (Eglin Willcox), and her family! The Eglins were wonderful, and it was great to reconnect. In October, Linda Eglin Mayer ’79 hosted us all (my wife and I and our three young kids) at her very cool home in Paris.”

Phil Thompson wrote: “Still working but having fun at work every day with new technologies! (CTO for online school). Each month, I look forward to a trip to our house

in Vermont, also visiting with my sister, ‘Scout’ (Melanie Thompson Fauchet ’78). Been the chief of EMS squad now for 10 years and just joined the local volunteer fire department as well. BUSY! Summer is coming soon, isn’t it?”

Gwyneth Iredale wrote from Eugene, Oregon: “As my career in software winds down, I spent much of this past year attending to my mother, Eleanor Phyllis Hamel, who lived independently and passed on January seventh. So many of our classmates have experienced the death of their parents, and my heart goes out to them. Phyllis had an active and fulfilling 17 years here as grandmother to my kids, now 22 and 25; a son who lives in NYC after attending Pace U., and a daughter in Eugene, building a business in horticulture and gardening.

“During travel to the San Juan Islands this past summer, my partner, Andy, and I visited Julie Stabler Hull and her husband. It was great to catch up again and remember our dear friend, Eleanor Kuser, who sadly passed away from cancer in June of 2024. I also keep in touch with Sandy Shaw, who is reveling in retirement, skiing and hiking in Ketchum, Idaho.

“We plan retirement trips hiking through the West Coast’s ruggedly beautiful mountains, valleys, and deserts. On our itinerary for the spring is a meal at Jay Trubee’s successful restaurant, Jillian’s, in Palm Desert. We’ll also visit Princeton this year to bury Phyllis’s remains in the family plot at Trinity Church. Contact me to join us for drinks at the Alchemist and Barrister. In the meantime, view, download, and/or add photos to this online album: https://bit.ly/pds76

“Thanks so much, again, for taking on this tedious job. It’s very much appreciated. I will be busy as an executor for the next several months, balanced by helping my boyfriend retire in his nervous first year, but perhaps next year I could help you.”

Murray Wilmerding wrote: “We are starting the RV life. Cyndi retired in June of 2024. Our goal is to enjoy this vast country. All the highways and

byways that exist between State and National Parks need exploring! Of course, there will be bicycles involved and a desire to skip winters in New England. Our new/old house is a 2000LX Wanderlodge made by the school bus company Bluebird. It is our ADU on wheels. Look for it at our 49th and 50th reunions in May — we will be parked by the hockey rink. Look for our travels on Facebook.

“I feel the need to honor some great teachers that we lost in 2024. Mr. Andy Franz would grab my ear and bring me down to his level and with those piercing eyes and words would say ‘no inky...’ well, you know the rest. Doc Ross was next and now, 49 years later, I can say that I blew the breaker by inserting tweezers in the plug. The quick thinking of the backrow — Lee Martin and Scott Macdonald — said, ‘Did you see that lighting?’ I sat there dumbstruck in the darkened room as the tweezers shot out somewhere across the floor. I am sure the good Doc never knew.

“The kids and grandkids get older and taller. I still have an inch on my 14-year-old grandson, Carter. Lucia works in the school system, and she has faced the challenges of the Covid years and the damage it did to our youths’ education process.”

Murray Wilmerding ’76 with his partner, Cyndi, in front of their RV

Murray Wilmerding ’76 family: Andrew and Lucia Thorness (his son-in-law and his eldest daughter), his two grandchildren, Carter and Cara Thorness, and his partner, Cyndi

Alyssa Oxley ’76, when FaceTiming with daughters, Madeleine and Eliza, managed to use their dogs as stand-ins

Alyssa Oxley reported: “There always seems to be much discussion/pix of grandchildren here. I have none to offer yet, so I am including a shot from a recent FaceTime with daughters, Madeleine and Eliza, when we all managed to use our dogs as stand-ins. With Eliza out in the Bay Area and Mad in NYC, this is what works.

“In my sort of recent life, after Covid and retiring from teaching glass fusing techniques, locally and travel teaching, I’ve settled into a combination of running my short-term rental, here in Vermont, which is loaded with my favorite artwork, mostly from friends, a bit my own, and art books collected over many years.

“Of course, I work on my own art practice in kilns in my studio out back, and sporadically fabricate glass forms for lighting, as well. So, not that retired. Sadie, my dog, makes me meet neighbors as we walk. I am constantly surprised by how much I like Tai-Chi at my local library, I can walk to it. And each month, past glass students in the Burlington area and I get together for coffee, endless roubleshooting, and discussion of our latest work in our shared obsession with glassmaking. Especially with all the craziness in the world now, this is our refuge.

“Otherwise, heading down to catch MCC (Mary Chapin Carpenter) at McCarter Theater in late September. That’ll help too.”

Ann McClure: “I’m going to be a grandma!” Rock on!

1977

Sandra Benson Cress sbcress@aol.com

Another half-year has passed so quickly. Thank you all for your updates. It’s always great to hear from you as we look to extend our “third third” with health, humor and gratitude! It seems there is much “retiring” and “downsizing/ relocating to be nearer grandkids” going on.

Clooie Sherman shared a brief update from Seattle: “Hey Everyone! I’m retiring. Family is well. Scared for our country.”

Lisa Yokana wrote: “This summer we sold our house in Bronxville, NY, and downsized to a two-bedroom apartment down the hill — still close to our grandson, who will be two next weekend! We also moved into our house in Vermont, which my husband designed, and hosted my kids and grandson for a month starting the next day! I have been consulting —

innovation and entrepreneurial education — and have been travelling to Saudi Arabia to work with a cohort of teachers and schools in Jeddah. At the end of my latest trip there, I met my husband in Cairo, and we traveled to Alexandria and Luxor. My father grew up in Alexandria, and we were able to figure out where he lived and visit the school he attended before he came to the US to go to Princeton in 1946. It was a trip I have always dreamed of doing.”

Ibby Carothers recently relocated back to Manhattan from northern Virginia but has also spent some time exploring Antarctica!

Stephanie Cohen Sampson contributed: “My youngest daughter just had our third grandchild and lives in Pennington with her husband and son. We’ve relocated back north to the Lehigh Valley, after three years in South Carolina, where my oldest lives with her family. I’m retired but considering options. Would love to hear from old PDS friends.”

Claire Treves Brezel added: “The kids have grown and flown — daughter, Emma, graduated from medical school last year and

Lisa Yokana ’77 at the pyramids

Ibby Carothers ’77 touring Antarctica

Claire Treves Brezel ’77 with her daughter, Emma, son, Aaron, and husband, Ted

Steve Farr ’77 enjoying the view

Julia Penick Garry ’77 hit the slopes

Penelope, granddaughter of Julia Penick Garry ’77

is currently in her first year of residency at NYU. Our son, Aaron, is a software engineer and computational journalist. My husband, Dr. Ted Brezel, is weighing plans of retirement while I’m busy advocating on environment and climate issues and selling our own awardwinning Casale Sonnino extra virgin olive oil from our ancestral home near Rome. My brother, George Treves ’71, is still hosting travelers at our place, Casale Sonnino, so if your vacation destination is Italy — check out our page on VRBO: vrbo.com/237093ha

Steve Farr shared that he is retiring at the end of March! Plans include shedding stress, buying an RV, and travelling to festivals, family in Colorado and Maine among other bucket list locales, taking up golf, and taking care of nonpaying business (i.e., honey-do-list). Yahoo!

Julia Penick Garry wrote: “I was skiing in Pennsylvania in March. I usually ski out West, but didn’t get that far this year. It was super fun and the whole time I kept thinking

about our class ski trips to Vernon Valley/ Great Gorge that were so great. I think Livia organized them!

I was happy to see John Haroldson, but sad about why — Holly Burks Becker’s dad died, and we were both at the funeral. I heard reports that Pete and his wife were there, but I missed seeing them to my disappointment. WE WILL ALL MISS DR. BILL BURKS SO MUCH.

I solved the mystery of who posts the truly astonishing bird photos — the peregrine website is John’s. I suspected as much but was never sure (duh - hawk). Thanks for those great photos!

Thanks, as well, to Christina Black, who also posts amazing pictures from her seemingly constant bird watching trips.”

Indeed, Christy Black (Christy, are you going by Christina now, or is Christy, ok?) has been posting some beautiful bird and butterfly photos from her travels to Mexico and Puerto Rico! Christy, John Haroldson and Leigh Fadden have really taken some beautiful wildlife photos lately!

Meanwhile, Mathieu Roberts and Simeon Hutner continue their careers as prolific documentary filmmakers. This January, the short film, “The Boy in the Cabinet Beneath the Sink,” which Mathieu produced and shot, will be shown in his beloved hometown of Norwalk, Conn., at this year’s Norwalk Film Festival.

Meanwhile, Simeon produced and edited the film, “Walk with Me,” which is garnering kudos on the film circuit.

Harold Tanner shared: “Greetings from Denton, Texas. Not much happening. Writing, teaching, enjoying performances by local and visiting punk and metal bands, hoping that the USA and China don’t go to war before my forthcoming book entitled, “War in Modern China” comes out the end of this year or early next year, waiting to see when a family member who works for a federal government agency will get fired by some random white South African dude — you know — the usual things in life as we approach retirement.

George Zoukee added: “In 2024, I finally moved back to New Hampshire after almost 15 years away. I now live in scenic Portsmouth, NH, on New Hampshire’s small seacoast. It’s nice to be back in northern New England. Portsmouth is right on the border with coastal Maine and about an hour from Boston and two hours from the beautiful White Mountains. I’m enjoying it very much. No other news for now. I hope you’re well.”

Christy Black ’77 in Puerto Rico

Harold Tanner ’77 in Texas

Sandra Benson Cress ’77 in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Jovan, son of Nora Cuesta Wimberg ’78, with his fiancée, Morgan

As for me, Sandra Benson Cress, your trusty class scribe, has had another busy year — as I hit “send” on these class notes in late March, I am dancing in an intensive Flamenco program in Jerez, Spain. Other joyous pursuits: continuing to sing in the Trinity Cathedral Choir, and am hoping I can maintain my voice and commitment through our 2026 summer choir “in residence” at the Durham (UK) Cathedral. I also spend most Wednesdays serving a lovely community “hot lunch” to our disadvantaged/homeless Cathedral neighbors. I’m pretty sure I’m the youngest volunteer by a decade or two! This June/July, we will head back to Paris and then drive down to San Sebastian (Spain) to see Springsteen. Life and health are still good, and I am trying to live by the motto, “If not now, WHEN?” Wishing you all a healthy and happy rest of your year, and counting the months until our 50th reunion(!)

1978

Nora

Cuesta Wimberg

nlazz@mac.com

As your correspondent, I was ecstatic with this Journal’s entries. We surpassed previous years and heard from individuals who had not written in before! If there is one thing I know about PDS, there is a “connection” that students and faculty have that cannot be explained to those who were not as fortunate as we are to be part of.

My parents were a part of PDS as well. They would be so proud of the connection we have all kept. Mom passed away in April, 25 years ago, and my dad in February, 15 years ago. I know that they are watching from above and smiling. On a lighter note, my 25-year-old son, Jovan, got engaged! The wedding will be in October 2025 in Michigan, the state where her parents are from and where they were married. Jovan and his fiancée, Morgan, received their master’s degrees, and both are working with children on the spectrum for a company in Philadelphia, Pa. We are blessed.

Tom Gates wrote: “We lost Mr. Franz recently, what a great man. News from the Gates: Our daughter, Sheridan ’10, and husband, Colin, welcomed Enzo Everett Montemarano on December 1 in Nashville!

“Hudson (six) and Maverick (almost four) in Bend, Ore., are thriving, as are their parents. We get there a couple of times a year. Life in Pennington is terrific with wonderful friends, meaningful work, paddle tennis, canasta (!), and time with my 94-year-young mom. How did we get to be 65!? Peace and love to all!”

Robyn Ultan wrote: “I am doing okay. Although my mom, thankfully, is overall in good shape, she does have some health issues, so I am helping her out. I still enjoy singing with my Jewish choir and with a local karaoke group that meets monthly. Although I’ve always had an interest in politics and current events, I’m trying not to watch too much news because it is very upsetting. I can only hope and pray that the checks and balances in our Constitution hold because, as Ben Franklin said, ‘it’s a republic if you can keep it.’ On a happier note, my California girl, my niece Sophie, decided to attend college on the East Coast! She is now a freshman at Brandeis and visited us in February. I send good wishes to all of my classmates from the great class of ’78!”

Ann Hunter Lepkowski wrote: “I became an empty-nester this past year and created an art studio in my son’s former room. It’s been really fun having a designated space vs. a corner.

I’ve gotten connected with a gallery, which is located in a wonderful old Victorian house and features the work of local artists. The gallery is called Honeycomb Gallery and features the work of 50 local artists at different stages in their creative journey. For me, I am returning and pretty rusty but super grateful to be with this wonderful group who inspire, support, and teach me every day. It is part of Skep Space. Skep is another word for hive, and the owner wants it to be a place of community, and offers studio space, writing groups, classes and other things to promote this. Beyond that, I continue to enjoy being outdoors, and I work part-time. I’m looking forward to coming east at some point this year to see my daughter, who now lives in Philadelphia. Hope all are well, and I know some will be celebrating their 65th birthday as well this year!”

Jeffrey Ritter wrote: “A trip to New Jersey with the sole purpose of attending Larry Kuser’s Fernwood Farm’s 150th anniversary in Bordentown. First time I’ve ever seen Kuser in a tux! Hobnobbing with local farmers was a lot of fun! And the next day he gave us a tour of the farm and bags filled with organic vegetables to take home. The Christmas trees that we planted in 1975 are all long gone by now, but the memory of those hard days of work remains. You guys know who you are!”

Alice Lee Groton wrote: “Allison Ijams and I just met for lunch last week between Wellesley and Stonington — we swore we wouldn’t forget to take a selfie for the Journal and guess what?! In April, John and I made it to Spain to see the Barcelona Tennis Open, Madrid Open and visited Seville in between. By chance last summer, I ran into Linda Eglin Mayer ’79 in Watch Hill, recognizing her immediately after 50 years! She has lived in Paris with husband,

Tom Gates ’78 with new grandson, Enzo

Jeff Swisher ’78 and Tom Gates ’78 in February at the Presidio in San Francisco

Ann Hunter Lepkowski ’78 outside the Honeycomb Gallery

Alice Lee Groton ’78 with grandson, Ozzy

Pierre, and their three children for 30-plus years, and in October, John and I visited her there before taking a riverboat trip from Paris to Normandy. This past December, we welcomed our second grandson, Ozzy, who joins his twoyear-old cousin, Briggs, and in April, our third grandson will be born. We’re grateful our family is nearby and love this time with our growing brood. I’ve been ocean dipping for the last three winters. It’s totally insane and exhilarating and a definite reset button, when needed.”

Sue Fineman Keitelman wrote: “In December, my son, Paul, got engaged and is getting married in June to his fiancée, Amber! I hope your new year started off better than mine. On January fifth, I tripped in my driveway (over my shoelace!), fell headfirst into the brick wall outside the garage, and then slammed into the driveway onto my right arm. I’d already had my right shoulder totally replaced in 2020. I ended up fracturing my humerus (but it was not funny!), fairly close to the shoulder prosthesis. In the ambulance they had to cut my nice winter jacket off of me and my shirt. Funny what you’ll let people do when you’re in pain. At least I beat the weather and was in the hospital before our first big snowstorm started that evening! I had to have surgery so they could attach a periprosthetic plate to the humerus and the shoulder prosthetic. Added to my two total hip replacements and my total knee replacement, I am SO totally bionic now! Got two months of short-term disability out of it (after having just finished two weeks of winter break from my very stressful job as instructional assistant in a first-grade autism classroom.) Let’s just say, ‘it was a muchneeded break.’”

Barbara Vaughn wrote: “In 2023, Telly and I settled into a new home in Woodbury, Conn., after our 20+ years in CA; we love it! A gallery

that’s represented me for years is nearby in Washington Depot, and I had my first show as ‘a local artist’ in November. We’re so happy experiencing fall foliage and snow again, and look forward to spring blooms when winter has run its course.

Keith Baicker wrote: “As per usual, my news is in the photography front. I am pleased to have my photos in a local park’s fundraising annual calendar. Four photos this year. Additionally, over the next few months, I will have my photos in the Lawrence Library and in two restaurants in Lawrence (Leonardo’s II and Chambers Walk Cafe and Catering).”

Greg Morea wrote: “Right now, I am looking out my dining room window at the beautiful sight of freshly fallen snow! The holiday season was quiet, but as 2025 dawns, big changes are in store for Barbara and me! First, in just two days (February fifth), I turn the dreaded and blessed sixty-five. Dreaded because I am officially old; blessed because I now get all those great ‘senior citizen’ discounts as well as Social Security and Medicare. Then, in mid-March, I bid farewell to Electric Boat after almost forty-two years of service there. To celebrate, Barbara and I are going on a Panama Canal cruise shortly

thereafter. And, best of all, later this summer, we will become grandparents for the first time! Quite a lot to look forward to.”

Allison Ijams Sargent wrote: “My news is that all is well in Wellesley. The family is chugging along; a new granddaughter has popped in to say hello, which brightens things up. This past month, I have had the pleasure of seeing Tom Gates (and Tracey) and Alice Lee Groton at different junctures. My time with them only reinforces the idea that friendships made at PDS are deep and abiding. What a relief to sit down with someone and pick up right where you left off, whether five days ago or five years ago. I hope everyone is well!”

Brian Trubee wrote: “Hello from the far Northwest corner of the US. I am settled out In Sequim, Washington, volunteer at the local fire department, have been flying my plane, building a Ford GT-40, and have been clearing trees and brush on my ten acres. I’ve installed a heated tile floor, shower stall, walnut cabinets and quartz sinks in the bathroom. The old bathroom was a disaster. Sorry to hear about Mr. Franz’s passing. I did not know that he had worked at George Nakashima’s shop in Bucks County. I am working on some chairs that were designed by George Nakashima. I have completed one and have six or seven in production. I wish Mr. Franz could see it. It’s amazing what impact he had on all of our lives. Also working on some parachute buoys for space hardware recovery, went down to Patrick Space Base to see if there is any interest in having them purchase them. Other than that, not busy at all!”

Lisa (Annie) Roberts ’78 with her family in Spain in 2024 Telly Hoimes and Barbara Vaughn Hoimes ’78

Keith Baicker ’78 at one of his art shows Chair made by Brian Trubee ’78

Sheila Mehta ’78 on the Camino de Santiago

Sheila Mehta wrote: “I had the experience of a lifetime (dare I say, transformative), walking the Camino de Santiago (Francés), an ancient Christian pilgrimage in Spain this past spring. I did it by myself, ‘winging it’ for the 500 miles. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity and ability to walk this amazing way. I am still so happy and fulfilled by the experience.”

Gayle Reeder Pyke wrote: “After weathering Debbie, Helene, and Milton this latest hurricane season, my family and I have earned the status of seasoned Floridians. We have learned that evacuations are spiritual-growth opportunities, and seeing the morning paper on the driveway is a welcome sign of normalcy. Hurricanes and all, we still enjoy most of our time in our primary residence on Longboat Key, FL. My husband, Mark, continues to embrace a heavy schedule of golf, running on the beach, working out, bicycling, and everything fun.

I remain busy serving on our neighborhood Homeowners’ Association Board, entertaining, and life at large. Our son, Jack, is enjoying life in the sun nearby in St. Pete.”

Lise (Annie) Roberts wrote: “All is well in seaside Connecticut. While I have been retired for a while, I work a few hours a week as a consultant for a younger architect and get to do all the fun stuff (designing and construction overseeing) and none of the hassles.

“I continue to work in my ceramic studio and recently had a show of my raku-fired masks.

My boys are doing well. One lives in London and the other is ten minutes from my husband and me. I love retired life filled with lots of travel and family time. We are grateful for our good health. Greetings to all!”

Sabrina Barton wrote: “As I cast about for worthy news from last fall — sinus surgery? Cooking an entire Thanksgiving dinner? — I find myself reaching back to summer 2024 in California, where I attended my son’s graduation from Stanford Law and lived in lovely Berkeley for six weeks. While there, I had so much fun visiting my brother, Adam ’80. Later that summer, I traveled to my sister, Jessica ’77’s, house in Truro (Cape) for wonderful multigenerational family time. I also met up with Ann Warner Anderson ’79 in Boston, and we had a grand old time, including a memorable feast at a Mexican restaurant (Day of the Dead theme) that concluded with free green cotton candy. It matched our margaritas.”

Robert Cottone wrote: “’78 Classmates, I am not retired yet like many of you, but have started my pre-retirement training regimen. I took my daughters, Emma and Elizabeth, and my wife, Lauren, on a two-week trip to Munich, Salzburg, Vienna, and Berlin over the holidays to visit the Christmas markets in Germany and Austria. And yes, our entire trip was every bit as storybook as it looks. We also enjoyed amazing classical chamber music concerts, including Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at Karlskirche in Vienna, and a Mozart program at Mirabell Palace in

Salzburg. It took all these years since high school at PDS for my wife and daughter to convert me into a classical music enthusiast, and this was a great way to appreciate it.

“To recover from that trip, Lauren and I went to St John in the USVI in January with four couples to celebrate a friend’s milestone birthday. Did some sailing, sport fishing, hiking, snorkeling, and island beverage sampling. I could get used to this.

“I always enjoy the updates and class notes; it keeps me young at heart and appreciative of our time at PDS. I look forward to seeing everyone at our next milestone reunion.”

Susan Packard wrote: “I have lived on the outer Cape in Truro for the past 25 years. I have two children: Ben and Becca. I went back to school at 56 and am now a social worker. Has it really been nearly 50 years???

Peter Morgan wrote: “It was great to see Tom Gates and so many others at the PDS Alumni Games this January. We realized we’ve known each other for an incredible 62 years! Only Will Stackpole surpasses that, with a 65-year friendship. Our mothers met at Princeton Hospital, as we were born just two days apart. Tom introduced me to his cousin, Rob Dwelley, who lives in Camden, Maine — especially meaningful since I now call Brunswick home. I met Rob for tea and discovered that he was good friends with Mike Greir, who had been dating my sister, Lisa Morgan. Lisa attended Stuart Country Day School when it first opened in 1963 before transferring to Northfield Mount Hermon for her sophomore year.

“Last February, I joined BNI to network for my architecture business, Morgan Atelier. This made me reflect on how PDS remains one of the most enduring networks in my life.

Flyer for Lisa (Annie) Roberts ’78’s raku-fired masks

Sabrina Barton ’78 enjoying a memorable Mexican feast

Robert Cottone ’78 and his family visited Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany

Robert Cottone ’78 on a sailing trip to Jost Van Dyke in the BVI

The joy of connecting with others is what truly matters. A lesson I’ve taken to heart from BNI: ‘How can I help you?’ On a more somber note, I want to remember Andrew Franz, who passed away on December 27th. I have fond memories of him and still cherish an exquisite table from his Father-Son Evening Woodworking class. I also recall an embarrassing yet humorous moment when Franz was my seventh-grade homeroom teacher. Will Stackpole had cracked a joke — something about a short-sleeve tie — that made me laugh so hard I accidentally farted. Franz, in classic form, exclaimed, ‘Mr. Morgan, you really are a pig!’ before clocking me in the head with a chalk eraser. A tear rolled down my cheek as my face lit up in laughter. Good fodder — thank you, Andy.”

1979

Catherine White Mertz cathywhitemertz@gmail.com

Evan Press

EvanRPress@gmail.com

It was lovely to receive this news from Anne Merrick Kellstrom: “This morning (March 17), I am slowly sipping my coffee on my first day of retirement! I officially retired on March 14 from a long and wonderful career as Manager (paralegal), Legal Services at the USGA. To get my retirement started right, we came up on Sunday for a St. Patrick’s Day party at my niece, Courtney, and her husband Padraig’s home in Yardley. Looking ahead, I know I’ll be playing some golf. I have had a lot of fun playing with our classmate Susan Wiener Berson — Susan and Katina Lee have a home in Chestertown, MD, too, and we belong to the same club. This year, we plan to play together again as a team in the Ladies’ 18-Hole Invitational, which we won last year! Susan and I both looked for a picture but couldn’t find one. Will take one this year!

I’m grateful for my career at the USGA, but am now looking forward to new adventures!”

Phil Maltese has big news: “On October 19, my first grandchild was born to my eldest son, Trey, and his lovely wife, Arielle, at Cooper Medical Center in Camden, N.J. His name is Dalton Michael Maltese. All concerned are doing well.”

Not to be outdone, Chris Horan reported equally big news. “My son got married last year and, this summer, I’ll be a grandfather for the first time! I don’t think I’m old enough — I still play hockey!”

Karen Polcer Bdera sent in a couple of photos from her “Redemption Tour” 2024 NYC Marathon. “When I broke my ankle in 2023 at the start of the marathon, I was determined to get back to it in 2024. NYC Marathon finish #24. (And yes, I am signed up for this year’s race as well...)” That’s quite a comeback, Kipi!

In February, I, Cathy White Mertz, traveled to Princeton for the memorial service of Dr. Bill Burks, our beloved family friend and longtime partner of my father. Trinity Church was duly packed, as was the Nassau Club afterward, where I saw many familiar faces, including, but by no means limited to, David Blaxill, Tommy Gates ’78, Jenny Chandler ’78, John Haroldson ’77, Sam Woodworth ’82, and, of course, Kathy Burks Hackett ’75, Holly Burks Becker ’77, Debby Burks Southwick ’81 and her husband Mike Southwick ’81, and Whip

Burks ’86. On the way home to Boston, I had the great pleasure of spending an afternoon with Teresa Lane at a diner on the Somerville Circle. The hours flew by as we caught up, reminisced, and shared decades of our lives with each other. A shiny silver lining of the trip!

1980

Suzanne Albahary D’Amato suzannemndamato@yahoo.com

Karen Kelly k2pk@comcast.net

Sally Robinson updated us from Bozeman, Montana, where she’s called home for the past 30 years: “How can it be that we are 45 years post-PDS? I am sorry that I will not be able to attend the reunion, yet I’ll try my best to be there for the big 50th reunion!

“2023 and 2024 were challenging years. I sold my business in 2023 and had a major tuneup on my heart. My first artificial heart valve failed after 24 years, and other issues followed, so now a new heart valve and a defibrillator are on board. Bravo to medical advances! The new valve went in through a catheter, and it was placed right inside the failing, old artificial valve. In and out in 24 hours — and no fullon surgery like 24 years ago. Thank you, Mayo Clinic, and medical advances! After two difficult years caring for my ex-husband with cancer, he passed away in June 2024.

“I am looking forward to calmer seas in 2025, and I’ll miss saying ‘hello’ to everyone at the 45th reunion!”

Karen Polcer Bdera ’79 running the 2024 NYC Marathon

Susan Packard ’78 with her son, Ben

Anne Merrick Kellstrom ’79 and her husband, Todd, at her celebratory retirement dinner on March 14

Anne Merrick Kellstrom ’79 and her sister, Laurie Merrick Winegar ’72

1981

Camie Carrington Levy camie@palousetravel.com

Kirsten Elmore Meister kmeister5@yahoo.com

Scott Egner sent news: “Daughter, Josie, is a freshman at Thayer Academy, which is hard to believe. All is good in Boston! Going to see Dead and Company in April at the Sphere! Looking forward to seeing everyone for our 45th!”

Shawn Tobin wrote: “I’m in Vegas raising my son, Duke, who dwarfs me. He is 6’10”, 250 pounds and wildly athletic though he never played before I got custody. I mostly work with masters of the universe like Laird Landmann ’80.

“Personally, I am aiming to heal things to where I can be the oldest man to ever dunk a basketball; the shortest between me, Dominique Wilkins, and Dr. J, of doing it in our 60s. And the only one to ever do it with two hands, which is most difficult. Hope you are well.”

1982

Lorraine Herr LHerr@herr-design.com

1983

Noelle Damico revdamico@gmail.com

Sylvia Wills Millar sylvialmillar@gmail.com

Rena Whitehouse renawhitehouse@hotmail.com

1984

Edward “Ted” Willard tcwillard@mac.com

On September 28th, the day after hurricane Helene hit NC, my daughter, Caroline, married her high school boyfriend, Michael Myers! The rehearsal dinner was held the night before in nearby Mount Airy. The restaurant had lost power, and rather than refund the deposit, it opened only for our dinner, which was held by candlelight! The food, which was wonderful, was heated with what I believe were Sterno candles or propane. The wedding ceremony and reception went flawlessly, and Courtney and I could not be prouder of Caroline and couldn’t be happier to add Michael, who is a chemical engineer at BASF in Raleigh, to the family.

1985

Lynch Hunt lynchhunt@alumni.upenn.edu

Marisa Petrella sales4metoo@msn.com

1986

Mollie Roth mollie.roth@pgxconsulting.com

1987

Sterick Ivey sterickivey@gmail.com

Sofia Xethalis sxethalis@yahoo.com.au

Stephen Thomas ’81 with Scott Egner’s daughter, Josie, and Kyle Foster, in the Florida Keys last Thanksgiving

Karen Polcer Bdera ’79 post-marathon

Left to right: Hazard Zenzie ’79 and his wife, Kathleen Wetherby, Laila Partridge, Oscar Mertz, Cathy White Mertz ’79, and John Partridge ’79 at the Partridge home.

1988

Mike Lingle mlingletonic@yahoo.com

Dawn Feldman Fukuda sent news: “I am celebrating just over one year in my new position as assistant commissioner and director of the Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. I have the privilege to oversee a team of nearly 500 brilliant and dedicated staff, and the public health response for over 90 infectious diseases. It’s been a steep learning curve, lots of challenges, and a deeply rewarding experience. When I selected public health as my undergraduate major, I never anticipated the wild ride that was ahead.

“On the family front, our younger daughter, Mia, is completing her senior year at American University, and recently returned from spending her fall semester studying at Seoul National University in Korea. Our older daughter, Naomi, just got engaged, so now we are planning a spring 2026 wedding! Jim and I continue to travel as much as our work schedules will allow and find ourselves dreaming about retirement a lot more often lately. Hope to see everyone soon.”

1989

Doria Roberts Donati doriadonati@gmail.com

Jane Heap sent news to the Alumni office: “Lovely to see many of you last summer at our reunion. Special thanks to Doria for hosting and to Angie for coming to cheer for my daughter, who was rowing in the Ivy League Championships the next day. After 25 years on Wall Street, I’m now working for a nonprofit — Emerging Markets Investor Alliance — with the aim of making the world a better and more sustainable place. My mom, Helen

Wilmerding MFS’57, moved to Rye to live with us six years ago and is now the queen of the town with the most active social life in the family. Our son is a junior at Tufts and our daughter a sophomore at Princeton, majoring in quantitative economics and electrical computer engineering, respectively. Our boy spent the fall in Milan and had the time of his life.”

1990

Deborah Bushell Gans gansdebby@gmail.com

1991

Aly Cohen alycohen@yahoo.com

Starting with some very sad news, our class recently lost two fellow classmates, Lemington Ridley and David Suomi. Both Lem and David were talented, creative, and incredibly funny people who touched many of us during their time at PDS. They were deeply loved by their family and friends and will be greatly missed. If you would like to make a donation to PDS in their name/s, please reach out to the Alumni Office.

I want to mention that PDS industrial arts legend, Mr. Franz, passed away recently. He was a beloved teacher, mentor, and great friend to many of our ’91 classmates as well as the PDS community at large. Wishing our classmate, Robert Franz, and his family peace and comfort during this sad time.

Chris Varone shared, “Nothing new or exciting on my end...I’m designing some houses, eating pancakes, and coaching soccer.” On further prodding, he also shared that his team, the U10 All-Star Team, won the San Diego

Championship! “In between pancakes, I have been a volunteer coach with AYSO since 1996.” Congrats to Chris and his adorable and fierce players!

Tony Mack shared some wonderful news about his three boys: “Son, Ryan ’22, and the Temple University News sports journalism team were recently recognized by the Hearst Journalism Awards Program as one of the best college and university sports writing departments in the country. Ryan’s article entitled ‘A Love Letter to Danny: Rumph Classic Transcends the Hardwood,’ placed ninth out of 135 entries from 73 schools. Son, Jay ’15, is currently in the Broadway cast of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child!” Son, Ethan ’26, was just featured in the Princeton Day School musical of “Alice by Heart.” Kudos to PDS for showcasing these talented students.”

And as an endnote, my son, Asher ’25 is finishing up his senior year and is off to Tufts University in the fall (go Jumbos!), and my son, Landon ’27 is involved with the amazing photography program at PDS and was accepted into a summer business of art

Scott Egner ’81 and family on a family trip to Steamboat with his wife, Katie, daughter, Josie, and Josie’s “bestie” Ted Willard ’84 with his family at his daughter Caroline’s wedding in September 2024

Jane Heap ’89 with her children and mother, Helen Wilmerding MFS’57

program in NYC this summer. Both boys will be playing PDS varsity boys lacrosse with Ethan Mack ’26 this spring.

I’m also super excited to share that my new book, “DETOXIFY: The Everyday Toxins Harming Your Immune System and How to Defend Against Them”, published by Simon & Schuster, was published on May 6th and is available on Amazon. “Detoxify” connects the dots between everyday synthetic chemicals and the epidemic of immune and autoimmune disorders, and what we can all do about it! I continue to share practical info, recommendations, and fun hacks for staying healthy, managing conditions, and preventing illness on my social media platform and podcast, as well as on TheSmartHuman.com!

1992

Sharon Thomas Haber ziggythomas@hotmail.com

Judson Henderson jhenderson@callawayhenderson.com

1993

Darcey Carlson Leonard darceyva@gmail.com

1994

Cynthia Shafto Cynthia.678@icloud.com

1995

Melissa Woodruff Mccormick mwoodruf99@yahoo.com

1996

Dana DeCore Falconi dana.falconi5@gmail.com

1997

Ellyn Rajfer Herkins ellynrajfer@gmail.com

L. Amanda Rabinowitz Plonsky mandyplonsky@gmail.com

1998

Giovanna Torchio Lockhart gray.giovanna@gmail.com

1999

Joanna Woodruff Rominger jbw1980@gmail.com

2000

Natasha Jacques Nolan nkjphoto@hotmail.com

Sapna Thottathil sapna.thottathil@gmail.com

2001

Carolyn Yarian Morgan carolyn.morgan2012@gmail.com

Wilson Weed wweed1@gmail.com

2002

Aviva Perlman Fintz aperlman26@gmail.com

2003

Elizabeth Sayen elizabethsayen@gmail.com

Chris Varone ’91 with his U10 All-Star soccer team

Tony Mack ’91 with his wife, Kim Ritter Mack, and their son, Ethan Mack ’26

Aly Cohen ’91 with Katie Couric at SheMedia Co-Lab event at SXSW

Many thanks to Allison Marshall for many years of service as class correspondent. And much gratitude to Elizabeth Sayen for taking over as correspondent.

Hello everyone! I am happy to take on the role of class correspondent to reconnect and hear about the lives of my illustrious 2003 classmates, twenty-two (!) years after graduation. It has been a while since I sent an update, so after seven and a half years of working in tech in San Francisco, I pulled off a mid-pandemic global move to Barcelona (2021-2022) and completed a master’s in User Experience Design. Back in the U.S. in 2023, I spent much-needed family time and explored multiple cities, but ultimately found my way back to my beloved Bay Area. I am a freelance UX designer and provide various personal organizational services, so reach out if you or friends need help.

One perk of being semi-local/semi-nomadic in 2023 was the chance to spend time with classmates and their families at our 20th reunion in May of 2023! Amy Gallo, Joe Joiner, Peter Hugick, Bernard Ozarowski, Bianca Gersten, Julia Kay Thompson, Nick Perold, Kristin Apple, Katie Fanok Tucker, Joanna Bowen, Michael Highland, Jason Sigal, Al Alsup, and more were there to celebrate our big day! My bi-annual trips to New York would not be complete without some quality time with Laura Spritzer. Alumni (of any class) who are living or visiting San Francisco, please feel free to reach out. I would love to meet up!

Ken Miller wrote that he is still living in Yardley with his wife and two amazing kids (ages five and three). He has been with FS Investments in Philadelphia for over 16 years! Ken was looking forward to connecting with fellow alumni at a Philadelphia meetup, which was unfortunately canceled due to inclement weather, but looks forward to the next one.

He mentioned being an avid cyclist, with around 8500 miles annually, so if anyone is ever looking to ride around in NJ or PA, he would love to connect and ride! Also, Ken is doing a heli-boarding trip to Revelstoke, Canada, for his 40th — through recommendations from fellow PDSer Scott Rosenberg ’04, who has done it twice.

Nick Travers wrote from Austin, Texas, and would love to grab lunch with fellow alumni in (or passing through) Austin. Feel free to reach out!

Kristin Apple wrote that she is working as a small business owner and is a mother to Simona, who will turn two this year. Her first ‘baby,’ Applepuncture (her acupuncture business in New Hope, Pa.), is turning 10 this August. Kristin mentioned spending time with fellow 2003 classmates — Jan Trumbauer, Priya Palit, Noel Fales, Mike Highland, Annie Bodel over the last year.

Rohit Jenveja wrote to announce that he and his partner, Caroline, welcomed Chloe Jenveja in October 2024.

Christopher Campbell wrote, “Greetings from DC, again! My family and I are fortunate to remain in our nation’s capital for a little while longer. I now work for the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff as the Russia desk officer. My role is to draft independent apolitical military advice on Russian affairs, including matters related to the Russia-Ukraine War, so that the chairman can brief the president, secretary of defense, and National Security Council. This has been an exceptionally busy and difficult assignment. I hope my next assignment brings me back to the cockpit of a fighter jet. I had a wonderful escape from the Pentagon a few weeks ago to meet up with Joe Joiner and Amy Gallo at a local PDS

gathering. It was so much fun! I would love to reconnect with other Panthers in the area, too. This seems like a perfect moment to retell our hilarious stories from high school and reminisce about simpler times.

“My wife, Melissa, is still working downtown six days a week. Our daughter, Charlotte, is a busy fourth grader who spends almost all her time at school or the dance studio. She’s becoming quite accomplished in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and hip-hop styles. We have tickets to the Kennedy Center tonight to reinforce her love for the performing arts; perhaps we will see her on stage there someday! Please reach out via text/call/email whenever!”

Michael Highland wrote, “My family and I continue to settle into NJ life after relocating to Pennington from Los Angeles in 2020. I’m working (from home) in game development, now as a creative director for BUCK Games. We just wrapped up our second title, ‘The Electric State: Kid Cosmo,’ a prequel for a recently released Netflix blockbuster, ‘The Electric State.’ Check the game out on your phone if you have a Netflix subscription!

Class of 2003 and loved ones at their 20th Reunion in May 2023

Ken Miller ’03 and family

Kristin Apple ’03, Noel Fales ’03, Priya Palit ’03, and Jan Trumbauer ’03

“My wife, Chrissy, has grown her psychotherapy practice this year, and now has a physical office in Princeton. Our daughter, Zoe, is a joyful first grader and has recently gotten into Taekwondo and ukulele. With any luck, she’ll be ready to multiclass as a Monk Bard in a few years (where my D&D-ers at?). We enjoy seeing fellow PDSers in the area like Nick Perold, Kristin Apple, Jan Trumbauer, Priya Palit, Mike KT ’02, and seeing all the play kiddos together.”

Julia Tamulis wrote, “We moved back to Princeton recently! It’s been really fun taking the kids skating at the PDS rink.”

2004

Katherine Chimacoff Dickens Mrskatedickens@gmail.com

Scott Rosenberg rosenbergse@gmail.com

2005

Hilary Richards Conger hilary.conger@gmail.com

Rajiv Mallipudi won third place in the 2025 USA Powerlifting CT State Championships on March 15, 2025, in the open class for his bodyweight. At a bodyweight of 160 lbs — and 38 years old — he also successfully set a NEW personal record on the deadlift pulling 225 kg (496.04 lbs)! He keeps pushing his body further with no plans to slow down. His next challenge will be to beat his time in the Spartan Race ultramarathon on the mountains of Vernon, NJ, in April 2025. Outside of practicing medicine, he’s still enjoying time with his family and their

dog, playing ice hockey weekly, and coaching youth ice hockey. “We got one life and one body — keep it healthy and strong! (And remember to stretch!)”

2006

Jacob “Mendy” Fisch mendyman@gmail.com

Hannah Tamminen wrote: “I’m thrilled to be joining the cast of ‘Legacy of Light’ by Karen Zacarías at McCarter Theatre in Princeton, directed by Sarah Rasmussen. I’ll be understudying the two leading roles in this play, which runs March 19th – April 6th. Being part of this production feels especially meaningful

as it brings me back to Princeton at a time when I’ve been reflecting on my early theater experiences at PDS with the late Ross Hindley, who was instrumental in fostering my love for theater and performance.”

2007

Nina Crouse ninacrouse@gmail.com Vishal Gupta vishgupta2@gmail.com

Alexandra Hiller Rorick ali.rorick@gmail.com

Joe Joiner ’03, Amy Gallo ’03, Christopher Campbell ’03, and Shanique Streete ’02 reunited at the PDS event in DC

Christopher Campbell ’03 flying with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. Check out the other jets in the reflection of his visor!

Joe Joiner ’03 and Michael Reed ’03 met up at the DNC 2024 in Chicago

2008

Tessica Glancey Crampton tessicaglancey@gmail.com

2009

Ashley Smoots asmoots@gmail.com

Vinay Trivedi vt1090@gmail.com

Spenser Gabin lives in San Diego, CA, with his wife, Hanna, whom he married in November 2024. He is a psychotherapist (LMFT) and specializes in treating OCD and anxiety disorders. Spenser completed an IRONMAN in August of 2023 and continues to enjoy triathlon and endurance sports.

Ashley Smoots lives in Atlanta, Ga., where she works as an epidemiologist. She is also a doctoral candidate in the University of Georgia’s Doctor of Public Health program.

2010

Anna Otis annaotis92@gmail.com

Alexandra Feuer Portale awfeuer@gmail.com

2011

Evan Seto eseto17@gmail.com

Caylin Brahaney sent: “On July 29, 2024, my husband, Steve, and I welcomed our first baby girl, Olive May. She is a little bundle of joy, and we are settling into new-parent life.

I’ll be finishing up medical school at USC in Los Angeles in May and have applied into OBGYN for residency. We’re hopeful that residency training will bring us back East this summer so that Olive and her bestie, Briggs, Carly O’Brien’s baby boy, can have all the playdates they want.”

2012

Rachel Maddox rachelhmaddox@gmail.com

Peter Powers peterfpowers@gmail.com

Annie Nyce Questell annienyce@gmail.com

2013

Leah Falcon lgfalcon04917@gmail.com

Robert Madani robert.s.madani@gmail.com

2014

Rory Finnegan ref8af@virginia.edu

Mary Travers marygrtravers@gmail.com

2015

Grace Lee gracelee6666@gmail.com

Caroline Lippman crlippman@gmail.com

2016

Helen Healey helen.healey97@gmail.com

Peter Klein pwklein3@gmail.com

2017

Abigail Atkeson abigail.atkeson@gmail.com

Tyler Birch tbflyers@gmail.com

2018

Hallie Hoffman halliebryn@gmail.com

2019

Amon DeVane amond1234567@gmail.com

Raina Kasera raina.kasera@gmail.com

2020

Brynna V. Fisher brynnavansantfisher@gmail.com

Derrick Walker ’05 was married last September

Anna Otis ’10 and Elena Bowen ’09 met up this winter in Miami, where Elena lives.

2021

Needs Correspondent

2022

Milan Shah milanushah1@gmail.com

2023

Jai Kasera jai.kasera@gmail.com

This past summer, David Cohen went on multiple road trips with friends. One was to meet up with his friend in North Carolina, and another was to Shenandoah National Park. The country music and Mt. Joy were definitely a highlight and made the time fly.

Farhan Mohammed has been hitting his new personal records in the gym. He has also been trying new foods and loving them.

2024

Arun Patel arunpatel100905@gmail.com

Caylin Brahaney ’11 with Olive, and Carly O’Brien ’11 holding Briggs

Evan Quinn ’10 and his wife, Krista, welcomed beautiful twin girls, Ava Elizabeth and Ella Hazel, in February

Ava Elizabeth and Ella Hazel, twin daughters of Evan Quinn ’10

Spencer Gabin ’09 and his bride, Hanna

Allison Anderson wrote: “I was a PDS college counselor until this past year, when I left education to open a bookstore. I’m excited to report that Bookish Notions opened in January in Media, Pa. It’s been a lifelong dream of mine to be a local bookstore owner and help my neighbors connect with new favorite books and each other. I would love to welcome former students and colleagues into the store!”

Kay Haartz Cortelyou wrote: “I am still showing my horses. We are now doing carriage driving, which is fun and exacting. I have an antique gig, and in the show ring, I dress appropriately for the period and the occasion. We travel as far as Wisconsin to be in carriage shows. We win enough to keep me happy and motivated.

“Kip and I also continue to be on-call grandparents for my son’s three girls, ages 11, 10, and two.

I stay connected to and occasionally visit Sally Holben, who is doing well in Skaneateles, NY.

I had a wonderful time at the 50th reunion of the class of 1974. So many of the class returned. I was thrilled to see them all.”

Laurie Curtis attended the wedding of Corinne Urisko ’13 in March, where she reconnected with two of her former second-grade students Isha Rahman ’13 and Mary Atkeson ’13. “It was so great to catch up with them and hear what they are up to now. We had a good laugh over their marriage advice written at age seven.”

Corinne is the daughter of Karen Calloway Urisko ’85.

Liz Cutler wrote: “This year, I’m living in sunny California because I am a fellow in Stanford’s Distinguished Careers Institute. It’s a terrific

program; I’m learning a lot and loving the Cali life. I bike everywhere. I’m still working on my pressed flower art, which brings me much joy. I’m so busy in retirement that I wonder how I ever found time to work!”

Liz also reported that her boys, Sam ’08 and David ’10, were nominated for an Oscar this year for their film “A Lien”!

Betsy Davis has “been enjoying traveling around the world. Meanwhile, in my kids’ lives, Grahame ’13 graduated from UVM in August with an MBA, with a concentration in sustainability. Meg ’10 will be getting married in June. Lots going on.”

Bryce Hayes: “I was recently promoted to full professor at James Madison University; I have been on faculty since 2011. I held a sabbatical in fall 2024, where I worked on completing my first album, “Love, to me” available on streaming platforms. The album includes a track by former PDS composer-in-residence and faculty member, Laurie Altman!”

Allison Anderson in her bookstore in Media, Pa.

Former LS teacher Laurie Curtis with two of her former students: Isha Rahman ’13 (l) and Mary Atkeson ’13

Liz Cutler at the Oscars with her sons, Sam ’08 (l) and David ’10

Cindy Stadulis (l) and Judy Fox in NYC this past winter

Jenny Mischner’s Year in Review

Jenny Mischner wrote: “I continue to play handbells and pickleball as well as volunteering at the zoo. My creative endeavors include knitting, woodworking, and creating stained glass windows and flowers. We are focused on traveling as much as possible. In September 2024, we went to Puglia, Sicily, and Calabria. We’ll travel to South Korea and Japan in about a month and will visit Morocco in the fall. We spent Christmas and New Year’s in London with our oldest daughter, her partner, and dear friends. We are looking forward to celebrating our middle daughter’s marriage in June. Our third grandchild was born in February; I got to bring his sister and brother to the hospital to meet him. I can’t believe it’s been five years since I retired and moved to the Midwest. Time goes by so fast!”

George Sanderson reported: “After leaving PDS in 2015, I spent eight wonderfully eventful years serving as head of school at Doane Academy, a PK-12 day school in Burlington, N.J., founded in 1837 as St. Mary’s Hall. I was fortunate to arrive at Doane at a time when the school had significantly more financial resources than before my time there, and as a result we were able to achieve a lot together — the completion of a new building (Rowan Hall), the design of a new black box theater, the creation of a middle school, the acquisition of property contiguous to the campus, and (perhaps not coincidentally) an increase in enrollment.

Since completing my time at Doane in 2023, I have become a partner with Educators Collaborative, a consulting firm that works with independent schools on leadership searches, strategic planning, governance, coaching, and a variety of other consulting services. My work has primarily been in assisting schools with searches, and I have been fortunate to have thus far worked with schools in New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Oregon, Florida, and California. Carolyn and I continue to live in Pennington, and all three of our children (James ’12, Peter ’16, and Katie ’16) live and work in New York City. We feel so fortunate to have them close by.

I have enjoyed reconnecting with PDS and loved seeing former students and colleagues at the alumni event in New York in December. In January, Carolyn and I were in Southeast Asia, and one of the highlights of the trip was spending an afternoon in Singapore with my former student, Tom Bohnett ’02. I also have reconnected with Robert Franz ’91, and we had a long call in December, sharing our memories of his father. Andy (Franz) was a remarkable educator, and his legacy lives on in all of the students who were so fortunate to have him as a teacher.”

Cindy Stadulis wrote: “I can’t believe it has been 17 years since I left PDS. Tom and I are doing well, living on the campus of St. Stephen’s

Episcopal School in Austin, Texas. I am in my 39th year as a CFO/COO of independent schools and thinking ahead to retirement. Tom and I are looking forward to traveling in our new fifth wheel as full-timers. We recently celebrated the wedding of our son, Ben ’09, to Sierra Crowe in Zion National Park. We are loving our expanding family. Wishing all of our friends good health and happiness!

Maria Shepard sent an update: “Last spring, I started a new position as executive director of the PEP Program, a college-access program based in Summit, N.J., that offers academic support, social-emotional support, and college tuition assistance to admitted students beginning in seventh grade through college graduation.

“Last fall, Dave Freedholm and I welcomed our third grandson! Eli Karttunen Freedholm was born on September 25, 2024. His parents, Josh Freedholm ’04 and Kirsten Karttunen, are doing great. Eli joins Leo and Finn Rosenbaum as the third musketeer in our expanding clan!”

Linda Maxwell Stefanelli MFS’62 sent news: “In February, Tony and I put our Pennington house on the market and found terrific buyers five days later! Inspired by a younger generation, we plan to take a Gap Year near Wilmington, N.C., while we figure out the next chapter. We’ll be close to our son, Trip, and his family — and the beach. It’s sad to be moving away from the place where we’ve lived all our lives, but we’re excited to be opening ourselves up to new adventures and opportunities. Our closing is scheduled for May 1, so I’ll be absent from Alumni Weekend celebrations for the first time in — yikes — could it be 42 years? Princeton will always be home to us, and we plan to come back often to catch up with great friends and family.”

The Stadulis/Shapiro family celebrated the wedding of Ben Stadulis ’09. From l to r: Leslie Shapiro Davenport ’06 (third from left) with her husband and daughter; Philip Stadulis ’08, Meghan Shapiro Kapilevich ’08 (sixth from left) with her husband and son; Ben Stadulis ’09 and his new bride Sierra, and Sara Stadulis ’12 with her partner Tom Stadulis (’90-’95) (right) and Cindy Stadulis (’86-’08) (second from right)

Keith Geisel, Cindy Stadulis, and Steve Storey had fun connecting at their combined high school reunion

A LEGACY OF INSPIRATION

Remembering four faculty who shaped Princeton Day School

Princeton Day School mourns the loss of four extraordinary educators, John “Doc” Ross P’79 ’82 (1969-1996); Andy Franz P’83 ’86 ’91 (1969-1998), Ross Hindley (1993-2007); and Daniel J. Skvir H’73 P’90 ’94 (1969-2010), whose impact on PDS endures. Though their contributions were distinct, their influence collectively shaped the school’s culture of learning, mentorship, and community.

In 1969, Ross, Franz, and Skvir all began their tenures at PDS. Nearly 25 years later, Hindley completed this distinguished quartet, with their combined service ultimately extending more than a century.

In Ross’ chemistry lab, science was not just studied but experienced. His MIT training and doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania informed his animated teaching style, and beyond formulas and experiments, he shared his love of opera and Princeton basketball, modeling lifelong intellectual curiosity. His strong-willed and spirited personality made an indelible impression on colleagues and students alike.

“Doc Ross instilled a love of chemistry in me, which led to me majoring in biochemistry in college and my eventual transition to medical school. I work as a pharmaceutical scientist today, bringing new medicines for patients in need. It all started with Doc at PDS,” said David Muccino ’93.

Ross passed away on December 26, 2024, at his Morrisville, Pa., home, leaving behind two children, ten grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, along with generations of students who discovered their passion for learning during his 27 years in the classroom.

Andy Franz approached teaching with the same dedication as Ross, though his materials were wood rather than chemicals. Born in Austria-Hungary, Franz’s journey in woodworking led him through the renowned George Nakashima studio before finding his home at PDS. For nearly three decades, he guided students through woodworking, printmaking, and metalworking with extraordinary patience.

“Andy’s classroom was more than a workshop,” notes current woodworking teacher Chris Maher. “It was a space where creativity flourished, where ideas took shape, and where students discovered their own potential under his patient guidance.”

Franz passed away peacefully on December 27, 2024, just one day after Ross. He is survived by his children, Susi ’86 and Robert ’91; his son Christopher ’83 preceded him in death in 2013.

While Ross and Franz cultivated scientific inquiry and craftsmanship, Fr. Dan Skvir expanded students’ horizons both intellectually and literally. As a

Russian teacher, he inspired students during the height of the Cold War, later serving as director of admission and associate director of college counseling. With his wife, Tassie Skvir MFS’62, he led pioneering student trips to the Soviet Union. In 1989, under his guidance, Princeton Day School was selected as one of the first American schools to participate in the groundbreaking US-USSR Exchange program.

“Fr. Dan was an amazing educator who taught me about a lot more than academics. He was a man of great faith and great humor. I will always fondly remember our trip to Russia in 1997 for the 850th anniversary of Moscow,” said Dan Shapiro ’98.

Beyond education, Fr. Dan served the Orthodox Church of America with distinction. Ordained to the priesthood in 1989, he ministered as the priest chaplain at Princeton University’s Orthodox Chapel of the Transfiguration for 35 years. Perhaps most enduringly, he built community through meaningful traditions — faculty gatherings, March Madness pools, and “Gnome Week” celebrations before winter break. Fr. Dan passed away on March 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his wife Tassie, a former PDS faculty member and Upper School dean, along with their children, Nika Skvir-Maliakal ’90 and Kyra Frankel ’94. When Ross Hindley arrived in 1993, he brought an impressive background as artistic director for several independent theater companies, including the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. As artistin-residence until 2007, he immediately elevated the performing arts program. Under his direction, PDS productions earned 11 Rising Star Awards and 37 nominations, but Hindley’s approach transcended accolades. “I want to inspire them. I want to challenge them,” he once

John “Doc” Ross P’79 ’82

Andy Franz P’83 ’86 ’91

Ross Hindley

IN MEMORIAM

reflected. “I want them to learn about themselves as people while they explore their creative potential as artists.” He firmly believed theater taught “creative problem-solving, time management, selfdiscipline and self-confidence.”

“Ross had a profound impact on his students, setting high expectations with absolute confidence in their ability to meet them.

That belief, that unwavering support, shaped how so many of us saw ourselves and what we were capable of achieving. His influence extended far beyond the stage and into the way his students moved through the world,” said Director of Alumni Engagement and Strategy Amy Gallo ’03 P’32 ’35.

Hindley passed away on February 2, 2025, leaving behind a transformed performing arts program that continues to nurture student creativity.

John “Doc” Ross, Andy Franz, Daniel J. Skvir, and Ross Hindley — the scientist whose lab sparked intellectual wonder, the craftsman whose hands guided patient creation, the bridge-builder whose journeys expanded worldviews, and the director whose stage fostered self-discovery — each embodied a distinctive facet of educational excellence. Though their methods differed, their shared understanding that meaningful education transforms not just what students know but who they become endures as a living legacy at PDS.

Princeton Day School mourns the passing of the following members of our community. We honor the memories of those we have lost and extend our deepest condolences to their families and loved ones.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

William P. Burks P’75 ’77 ’81 ’86

Sally Pitcher Sword P’75 ’81

Charles L. Taggart P’76 ’79 ’82

George A. Vaughn P’78 ’80 ’84

John D. Wallace PCD’48 P’78 ’80 ’84

ALUMNI

Phyllis Vandewater Clement MFS’40

Eleanor Vandewater Leonard MFS’44

David Erdman PCD’46 P’81 ’83 ’85

Dorothy Fleming French MFS’48 P’69 ’72

G. DeWitt Boice PCD’49 P’77

Denis R. Dignan PCD’52

Ellen Jamieson Franck MFS’55

Lucy Busselle Myers MFS’55

Richard L. Rotnem PCD’57

Elizabeth Carter Bannerman MFS’58

Eberhard M. Rosenblad PCD’58 P’86 ’86

Wendy Yeaton Smith MFS’59

Peter B. Brinkerhoff PCD’65

Ann I. McClellan ’68

Candace Boyajian DeSantes ’69

Catherine Morgan-Standard ’70

Eleanor C. Kuser ’76

Glenn Bevensee ’77

Sandra Y. Kimbrough ’81

Alejandro Ossandon ’91

Lemington T. Ridley ’91

David J. Suomi ’91

Hunter S. L. Hecker ’12

FORMER EMPLOYEES

Darlene M. Byrne

Andrew Franz P’83 ’86 ’91

Thomas Griffith P’97

HONORING JACK WALLACE PCD’48

Ross A. Hindley

John Ross P’79 ’82

Daniel J. Skvir H’73 P’90 ’94

PARENTS

Irene M. Amarel P’79

Paul Benacerraf P’04 ’07

George C. Denzer P’91

Marie N. Dursin P’02

William F. Haynes P’80 ’82 ’85

David P. Jacobus P’75 ’78 ’79 ’81 ’82

Barbara L. Johnson P’70 ’71 ’79 ’81

Barrie J. Kale P’86

Doris Mapes P’79

Arthur L. Shearer P’96 ’01

Gerald P. Sternberg P’85 ’87 ’95

William A. Sweeney P’79 ’81 ’83

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we remember Jack Wallace PCD’48, whose extraordinary eight-decade relationship with Princeton Day School helped shape not only its history but its character. As our longest-serving trustee, a devoted alumnus, and a steady presence in the life of the school, Wallace brought thoughtfulness, integrity, and care to all he did. A tribute honoring the full impact of his legacy will appear in our winter issue. In the meantime, we invite those who knew him to share their memories at editor@pds.org, so that the story of his life and influence may be carried forward through the voices of our community.

Daniel J. Skvir H’73 P’90 ’94

Congratulations to the Class of 2025 as they carry their PDS experience forward into bold new beginnings!

WHERE THEY’RE HEADED Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

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