The Rectory News | Summer 2017

The Rectory News the magazine of rectory school, pomfret, connecticut | summer 2017

An Exciting New Look for Rectory Commencement 2017 Legendary Faculty

2017–2018 Board of Trustees Blair F. Bigelow ’52 Lisa T. Canter, MD, FACC Daniel J. De Nuccio Nathan Follansbee George Groom Laurence N. Hale II Nathaniel P. Hamilton, Jr. ’98 William P. Loftus III William Loos ’76 Jeffrey Lupient ’94 John F. Maybank, Jr ’94 Pam Mulcahy Kathleen R. Naumann Jo Ann Morelli Suriano Kate R. Salop Kevin M. Tubridy ’60 Michael Wang Johnny L. L. Wells ’03 Van H. Wilshire ’86 Elizabeth H. Zimmermann ’84 Rectory School’s mission is to provide students, from early childhood through middle school, with an enriched and supportive academic, social and ethical community that addresses individual learning styles, aptitudes, and needs while promoting personal self-worth and accountability.

The school community lives the Rectory School Creed: Responsibility, Respect, Honesty, and Compassion.

The Rectory News Published for the students, alumni, family, and friends of Rectory School, Pomfret, Connecticut.

Layout/Design: Bottlerocket Design Group

www.bottlerocketdesign.com Printing: 101 Business Solutions, LLC

www.101bs.com Editor: Dawn Chmura Proofreaders: Margery Mosher and Lisa Walsh ’84 Photography: Nicole Bushey, Maria Carpenter,

Dawn Chmura, Lesley Gibbs, Erin Hayden, Charleen Larkin, Mary Lou Seaward, Lisa Walsh ’84, Rectory Archives Front Cover: Lisa Walsh ’84 Back Cover: Mary Lou Seaward NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY: It is the policy of Rectory School, Incorporated, to admit students regardless of race, sex, color, or religion to the programs, activities, benefits, and privileges that it makes available to its students generally, provided that they meet the standards for admission.

Ninth graders work together on their final outing before graduation at an outdoor ropes course. While some were trepidatious, with encouragement from their peers, all rose to the challenge.

Features 18 An exciting New Look for rectory The modernized bell tower logo for Rectory School speaks directly to our history and our community. With the launch of the new logo and branding, we knew it was the perfect time to give The Rectory News a makeover, as well. Our goal was to portray in print the feeling of excitement on campus and the amazing achievements of our students and alumni. We are thrilled with the results and hope you are, as well.

2 Commencement 2017 Congratulations to the members of Rectory School’s Class of 2017!

8 always remember rectory Student Council President, Susan Shin ’17, nominated by her classmates to represent them at graduation, speaks from the heart.

12 Rectory’s Legendary Faculty We spoke to alumni from different decades and asked them to tell us about the “legendary” faculty member whose influence stuck with them years after they graduated.

Departments 2

From the Headmaster

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The Green Legacy continues

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around Campus

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Athletic Notes

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Alumni events

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Alumni Notes

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countdown to centennial!

linkedin.com/company/the-rectory-school facebook.com/RectorySchool and /RectoryAlumniPage instagram.com/rectory_school_ct @RectorySchoolCT @FredWilliams64 Rectory Social Feed: www.rectoryschool.org/social

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“Rectory is so proud of you graduates, and so interested and invested in knowing how your lives will unfold.” Rectory is a place where alumni are always encouraged to come home. Tom Fogarty ‘73 gained such value from his Rectory education that he encouraged his children to attend, as well: Tom with his children Margaret ’11, Patrick ’15, and Kathleen ’17 at the 2017 9th-Grade Awards Ceremony.

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Graduation Welcome 2017

By Frederick W. Williams, Headmaster In fact, as a group we identified our list of go-to topics if conversation was lagging, or, in the case of our breakfast meal, folks were still a bit sleepy. This list included politics, sports, the weather, and, if you are sitting with Aeden Connolly, whether you like it or not, the merits of long hair.

The actor Michael J. Fox referred to meal time as “the oldest form of theater….[with]…a new show every night,” and I have greatly enjoyed the many performances we engaged in this year. These performances have surely been entertaining, but they have also been meaningful.

Good morning, and welcome to this most celebratory day. It seems the snow was just melting days ago,

yet now, as spring always passes by in a blur, we gather to graduate another class of students from our beloved school. Like our school, this is a beloved group of young people. Exactly one year ago, these students ceremoniously moved from their eighth-grade seats in the Tang Center to the front and center ninth-grade ones, thus assuming a most important leadership role on our campus. They were told then that they would play a significant part in determining the successes of this school year. What a great job they have done as they have demonstrated accomplishments in so many arenas and served as inspirational role models for our community.

To list a few of their achievements, the Class of 2017 is credited with the best overall quality of Ninth-Grade Capstone Projects yet; they are the first cohort to have an entire class of students complete a precalculus course; and, while still coming in second place, they took the ninth grade versus faculty volleyball game down to the wire, while tying the two faculty versus ninth grade soccer games. Additionally, members of the Class of 2017 launched our robotics program a year ago that resulted in an award-winning effort by this year’s team; contributed numerous literary and artistic works to RECStory; and achieved undefeated seasons while helping to establish new sports on campus. All the while this class has embraced the powerful words that comprise our school creed: respect, responsibility, honesty, and compassion. But don’t take my word for it, simply look at the data: the Class of 2017 collectively received the fewest detentions for any ninthgrade group since we started tracking this information. That’s even with a few gum-chewing regulars in the crowd.

Because this is such an impressive class, I am confident you all remember my comments at middle school assembly several weeks ago about the value of dialogue that can occur around the dining hall table.

“All the great change in America begins at the dinner table,” former President Ronald Reagan stated. These words ring prophetically true as we convene one last time, and I reflect back on a particularly enjoyable—and meaningful—meal Chef Dave served to us several weeks ago.

The entrée was a delicious chicken fried rice, and the culminating treat of this Asian-influenced meal was the traditional—at least by American standards—fortune cookie. While our appetites for food at my table were well satiated, our hunger for convivial conversation was not. So we decided to go around the table sharing the wisdom contained within our crispy treats. As the pearly sayings spilled from my tablemates’ tongues, I immediately thought of you, Class of 2017, as I saw the foundation for change in our world forming with each smartly stated aphorism. So I saved the paper strips for this very moment because, just as your yearbook quote notes, “Every ending is a new beginning,” the words that concluded our meal have relevance to the new beginning each of you will experience in September.

With this hope in mind, we return to the dining room table where the first cookie was opened. It read, Success is to believe in yourself.

Just a few weeks ago, I was speaking with one of your classmates, and I asked how they were feeling about heading to high school for next year. I heard the expected sense of excitement about the opportunities ahead and strong affection for the future school, but this person also expressed some fear at being a younger student on campus. Flashing back to many memorable moments involving this graduate, I shared surprise at this latter notion and listed off numerous examples where this individual had demonstrated impressive confidence, extroverted tendencies, and fun-loving antics that added spiritedly to our school.

Yet her feelings were surely genuine.

Graduates, you have all crafted impressive résumés these past years at Rectory, and these résumés attest to the growth you have demonstrated. Yes, you go from being our “seniors” this year to underclassman next, but you take with you the confidence gained from the many character-developing situations that have defined

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your time on our campus. Your capstone projects required you to identify an area of interest and take a stand; your peer relationships constantly ask you to assess the meaning of friendship and loyalty; and your willingness to try a new sport or activity, regardless of previous experience, attests to the high degree of belief you have in yourself.

While you may be some of the younger students next fall, do not be some of the quieter. Believe in your abilities, your knowledge, your resilience, your strength of character, and make literal or figurative noise in whatever medium suits you best. Doing so will put you on a path to success, a path that becomes more defined as we enjoy— sumptuously and philosophically—another treat.

Back at my table that night, the next diner peeled open his cookie, extracted the rolled piece of paper, and read, Learn to listen, not to hear.

The distinction here is that hearing recognizes the presence of sound, but listening processes the sound into recognizable and understandable messages. Most Wednesday mornings during middle school assembly, we watched a segment of CNN for Students. These segments, which presented real-time issues facing our world and its people, shared the degree of complexity and, regrettably, acrimony that exists globally.

All of you, graduates, have the opportunity and responsibility to understand this complexity and attempt to lessen the acrimony.

Listening will be integral to your progress.

You have had the benefit of attending a school with a very diverse student body, and hopefully, whether through Rectory Voices, First Fridays, sit down meals, or a myriad of other school interactions, you have listened to the voices present, particularly those that offer insight into difference and present a view contrary to yours. Often we are drawn to sameness, and we hear what we like and what fits with our views. Reach beyond that sameness as your world travels and global understandings grow vaster, and keep in mind the oft-repeated saying that, “History repeats itself because no one listens the first time.”

Listen, seek out the perspectives of others, and prove the author of this quote wrong as you help to right a wanting world.

While it took a moment for our table to grasp the message of the third cookie—The person on top of the mountain did not fall there—each of you, graduates, have already demonstrated your understanding. The trek to the summit involves preparation, commitment, and effort; I would argue no meaningful accomplishment exists without these inputs. Your production of Seussical, Jr. is a great example. Like the rest in Tang Center a few weekends ago, I marveled at the 75-minute production. But those 75 minutes of incredibly entertaining dancing, singing, and acting were the result of hours of effort. Memorizing lines, choreographing dances, programming lights and sound, designing sets and costumes—the effort was as prodigious as the results were praiseworthy. Endeavor to approach all you undertake, graduates,

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from the smallest of assignments to the most ambitious initiative, just as our cast of Seussical, Jr. did in the recent performances. Hard work cannot assure success, but its absence will more than likely nullify it, thus landing you far short of that mountain top.

Class of 2017, as your fortunes foretell, you should head out with confidence, a keen ear, and an earnest work ethic towards a future that holds great promise—and, inevitably, uncertainty and disappointment.

The fourth cookie took this into consideration as the next at our table shared: The difficulties of life are intended to make us better, not bitter.

While we wish you success in all you do moving forward, you won’t make every team, ace every test, prevail in every election, or win over all who capture your heart. That is as it should be.

In addition to being wholly unrealistic, achieving all that you could possibly strive for threatens to lessen your accomplishments, diminish your drive to succeed, and rob you of some of life’s most important lessons. In the recent faculty summer reading title Mindset, the author, Carol Dweck, shared that “Success is about being your best self, not about being better than others; failure is an opportunity, not a condemnation.” While we know your future endeavors will meet with far more celebrations than commiserations, you will experience plenty of both. Be sure, when you suffer the latter, you are able to see through the emotion to the opportunity that lies beneath. You, and those around you, will be better for it.

As our tidbits of scrumptious knowledge, consumed casually on a rather ordinary night on the Rectory campus, attested to, it is not that complicated to determine what will bring us success, meaning, and joy in life. The challenge, as is usually the case, lies not in the knowing but in the doing. Rectory is so proud of you graduates, and so interested and invested in knowing how your lives will unfold. We want you to be, in whatever your chosen field, exceptional and extraordinary. In doing so, keep in mind the message of the final cookie of the night: The best are not only the happiest, but the happiest are also the best.

As you receive your diplomas, graduates, go forth from this campus and your Rectory experience to give and get the best, and appreciate and enjoy every bit of life in the process. Across the years you have in front of you, remember that your fortune is intertwined with the fates and efforts of others. In thinking about this truth, I am reminded of the diligence, care, and concern the faculty seated across from you contributed to your growth. They, like your family and friends, all want your futures to be blessed and your fortunes to come true, which is as simple as following our five maxims. Good luck in the effort and congratulations, Class of 2017, on all you achieved and all the successes and happiness that await.

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“While you may be some of the younger students next fall, do not be some of the quieter. Believe in your abilities, your knowledge, your resilience, your strength of character, and make literal or figurative noise in whatever medium suits you best.�

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commencement awards

Five-Year Award

Chorus Awards

Effort Honors

Yvonne Michelle Bessette Franklin David Costello Jeffrey Ryan Gibbs William Alexander Greene Caroline Elizabeth Labbe Kevin (Jiawen) Li Minyoung (Stella) Park Mahiro Yamakawa Blake Asher Zahansky

Evelyn Laraine Stewart Myles Cobbina Boivin

Wenhan (Catherine) Li

Drama Awards

Jeffrey Ryan Gibbs Kenneth Patrick Mills Minyoung (Stella) Park Nathaniel Phillip Rice Susan Shin Jin Tanaka Yitong Wu Blake Asher Zahansky

Newspaper Awards

William Alexander Greene Yitong Wu Photography Award

David Stephen Ciancio Art Award

Evelyn Laraine Stewart Media Communications Award

Jin Tanaka Envision Kindness Award

Jeffrey Wang Audio Visual Award

Charles Cooper Bell Guitar Award

Kenneth Patrick Mills

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Yvonne Michelle Bessette Blake Asher Zahansky Music Awards Jazz: Minyoung (Stella) Park Orchestra: Sunjae (Olivia) Lee 9th-Grade Ensemble: Nathaniel Phillip Rice Section Awards

9-3 Iker Garza Vieyra 9-2c Thomas James Rogalski 9-2b Tae Wook (Tyler) Kim 9-2a AnaMaria Antoinette Suriano 9-1b Yitong Wu 9-1a William Alexander Greene Academic Honors

David Stephen Ciancio Soo In (Angela) Han Jiayi (Jessy) Ji Hayoung (Irene) Jung Tae Wook (Tyler) Kim Sunjae (Olivia) Lee Emily Elizabeth McCarthy Evelyn Laraine Stewart Xiaoai (Eileen) Wang Yifei (Max) Yang

Effort and Academic Honors

Leroy Anderson Foreign Language Award for Spanish

Nathaniel Phillip Rice Ninth-Grade English Prize

Minyoung (Stella) Park Townshend Science Award

Tian (David) Yun Roure History Award

Jeffrey Ryan Gibbs Jackman Math Award

Soo In (Angela) Han Best All-Around Athlete Male: David Stephen Ciancio Female: Madeleine Anne Biondi The Ricci Ambassador Prize

Brett Anthony Chapman

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The Mabel Bigelow Memorial Cup | Yitong Wu

Named in honor of the School’s co-founder, this cup is awarded to a female member of the graduating class who displays outstanding excellence in character and who has shown great interest in and contribution toward the welfare of the School.

The Father Bigelow Memorial Cup | David Stephen Ciancio

Presented to that male student in the graduating class who “best exemplifies those human characteristics Father Bigelow sought to cultivate in all students,” best articulated in John Bigelow’s words: “To work well, to play well; to think clearly, to speak truth; to win without pride, to lose without rancor; to have courage, and to be kind.”

The Mr. & Mrs. John Character Cup | Thomas James Rogalski

For great progress in all areas of school life and for displaying the kindness, compassion, and spirit exemplified in the “Rectory child.”

The Thomas B. Harrison Cup | William Alexander Greene

For outstanding sportsmanship and consideration of others, not only on the playing field, but in all areas of school life.

The Alexander C. Vasiloff Memorial Award | Evelyn Laraine Stewart

For exemplifying those eclectic characteristics that include interest in history, science, mathematics, arts, and literature.

The John Frazar Austin Cup | Nathaniel Phillip Rice

For exemplifying the “fighting spirit,” whether in sports, studies, or in striving for general improvement.

The John Bloodworth Mobley Cup | Manuel Cangas Vigne, Jr. Yitong Wu and David Ciancio were awarded the Bigelow Cups for the graduating girl and boy who best exemplify outstanding character.

For the proctor who best represents the characteristics of “tolerance toward, support of, and enthusiasm for his/her peers throughout his/her career in the School.”

The Adam B. Silver Scholar-Athlete Award | Blake Asher Zahansky

For “demonstrating not only spirit, energy, inquisitiveness, and vigor in the classroom, but also determination and commitment on the athletic fields.”

The John and Millie Green Cup | Kathleen Marie Fogarty

For “bringing an uplifting spirit and a sense of joy to the School community.”

The Goodridge-Barber Academic Cup | Susan Shin

For the highest academic average.

The Charles Rockwell Cup | Susan Shin

For the student “who has done the most for Rectory.”

Headmaster’s Awards Emily Elizabeth McCarthy Kenneth Patrick Mills Pomfret School’s Patrick D. Wood ’01 Memorial Prize Blake Asher Zahansky

Awarded to the top student from Windham County matriculating at Pomfret School. (Photo appears on page 1.)

The Class Gift The Class of 2017 will help fund an outside sound system, which will be located at the Seaward Family Student Pavilion. The class gift was presented by Rectory’s 2017 Class Agents:

Brett Chapman, Susan Shin, and Blake Zahansky

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Strive For The Future, But Always Remember Rectory

By Susan Shin

First of all, let’s give a hand to all the ninth graders who have made it to where we are today. You should all be so proud of yourselves that you’ve made

it to graduation. I know that after we received our Secondary School acceptances on March 10, many of us felt as if we had already graduated. But today as I stand here, I know that most of us will not want to leave this campus in a few short moments. For some of us, today will be the end of an eleven-year journey, and for some of us, it will be the end of a shorter journey, yet both mean the same to us all, no matter the years.

I still remember when I first came to Rectory as a seventh grader three years ago. I was scared that I would not make any friends, that I would fail all my classes, and that I would regret my choice. I remember the first night when I was the only girl who was not crying after calling my mom. I remember when I met my first roommate, Yitong. Sitting at the assigned dinner table, I met new people who came from China, Florida, and New York. The seventh-grade girl who was too shy to laugh out loud started to learn how to make friends, how to organize, and how to be a good person. Since then, there was always one person, one person who had my back. When I got stressed out because I had no idea what to prepare for the secondary school application process, my proctor Sherry held my hand and listened to me about all the worries that my mom did not understand. When I was heartbroken from the comments that I heard after working in the dining hall, Ms. O’Neil gave me a hug, and told me that she also went through similar hardships. When I was not sure if I was going the right way as a ninth grader and the leader of the community, Misaki knocked on my door and made me laugh, reminding me that to the younger students, we ninth graders are the big brothers and sisters they rely on. The shy seventh-grade girl became an athlete, assiduous student, and a caring hard worker. The rock that was no different from other rocks learned how to shine in her own way amongst other rocks. The fact that nine out of ten people say that the one thing they will miss the most is the people just shows what Rectory is. Here, we’ve all met at least one friend or faculty member who we share our everything with. The one person who we go up to when we feel down, when we want to cry, when we want to talk, when we failed a math exam, or when we need a hug. The one person who will understand us. For the first time, I was not alone. For the first time, I worked in the dining hall. For the first time, I met people who I can sometimes trust even more than my parents.

Being a ninth grader was a lot different for me than previous years: sitting in the middle during assembly, being the first one to step up and to take the risk, and doing the right thing when you have over a

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hundred students following you. It was overwhelming at times. But, after all those years looking up to the ninth graders, I knew that we were special to them. We were the stars that they cannot reach and we were the ones who they cannot imagine being. The girl who cared so much about what others would think of her now knows how to take care of others who don’t understand that yet.

Still, all of us made it through the secondary school application process, long essays, and capstone. We had happy, sad, stressful, and embarrassing moments. For example, just last week I was in the spelling bee with Wyatt Weekes, the winner, and David Yun—and we all know that David probably knows more English words than the dictionary in the library. When other kids could not spell factitious and clandestine, I got the word after eleventh wrong. Twelfth. Yeah, twelfth. I know it now for sure. T-W-E-L-F-T-H. But, in the end, there was always this one person, friend, proctor, dorm parent, tutor, or advisor, who went through those moments of confusion and hardships with us. Going through middle school, and especially the ninth grade, is hard. Being away from parents at such a young age is hard. Because of the people here who held our hands at night telling us that everything was going to be okay and that they will be there with us no matter what, we at Rectory were able to wake up the next morning ready to tackle all the problems.

I am pretty sure many of you were worried when you first stepped onto this campus, and so were your parents. “Make sure you listen to the teachers. Call me when you need anything. Tell me what’s wrong.”

My mom used to say these words over and over again on the phone.

But Mom, I learned that at Rectory, we don’t always need you. Not that we don’t love you. But we’ve got all these people, people who have my back and yours. For three years, I made another family here in Pomfret. And yes, I will miss the green Pomfret filter, beautiful sunsets you can see from the pavilion, and the orange lockers. But I know that I will always have a place to come back to. Where I can be myself and still be loved. We learned how to do it once, so we will be able to do it again and branch out as aspiring leaders, diligent students, and good people. So fellow graduates, after today, after ten years, I hope you do not forget Rectory. Do not forget where you came from, what Rectory has done for you, and what Rectory means to you. Thank you, teachers and friends, for helping us come this far, and thank you, Rectory, for making a special home in my heart.

Susan Shin will be attending Middlesex School in Concord, MA, next year.

In addition to being Rectory’s Student Council President, she was also a student ambassador, a proctor on Dining Dorm, and the Head Waiter in the Dining Hall. She was the recipient of the Goodrich-Barber Academic Cup and the Charles Rockwell Cup. Susan lives in Korea with her family.

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“because of the people here who held our hands at night telling us that everything was going to be okay, and that they will be there with us no matter what, we at Rectory were able to wake up the next morning ready to tackle all the problems.�

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congratulations class of 2017

Noah Raymond Beaupre

Woodstock, CT Pomfret School, Pomfret, CT Charles Cooper Bell

Chadds Ford, PA Berkshire School, Sheffield, MA Yvonne Michelle Bessette

Donghyun (Jimmy) Choi

Seoul, Korea Northfield Mount Hermon School, Gill, MA

Iker Garza Vieyra

Scituate, RI Millbrook School, Millbrook, NY

Mexico City, Mexico Technologico de Monterrey, Mexico

Skyler Chayton Coard

Andrew Robert Giancarlo

Raleigh, NC Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY

Madeleine Anne Biondi

Aeden Kesey Connelly

Cranston, RI Cushing Academy, Ashburnham, MA

New London, CT Masters School, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Myles Cobbina Boivin

Franklin David Costello

Minghao (Vincent) Cai

Beijing, China Gunnery School, Washington, CT Manuel Cangas Vigne Jr.

Mexico City, Mexico Colegio Grimm, Mexico Brett Anthony Chapman

Mahwah, NJ St. Andrew’s School, Middletown, DE Luyao (Tracy) Chen

Beijing, China Ethel Walker School, Simsbury, CT

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North Scituate, RI Pomfret School, Pomfret, CT

David Stephen Ciancio

Woodstock, CT Woodstock Academy, Woodstock, CT

Vernon, CT St. Paul’s School, Concord, NH

Zachary Thomas Garneau

Simsbury, CT Williston Northampton School, Easthampton, MA Cristian Antonio Fahey

Pomfret Center, CT Pomfret School, Pomfret, CT Lin Fang

Atherton, CA Hun School of Princeton, Princeton, NJ Jeffrey Ryan Gibbs

Pomfret, CT Pomfret School, Pomfret, CT William Alexander Greene

Pomfret, CT Darlington School, Rome, GA Yoo Jung (Rachel) Ha

Seoul, Korea Westminster School, Simsbury, CT

Shanghai, China West Nottingham Academy, Colora, MD

Soo In (Angela) Han

Kathleen Marie Fogarty

Yusuke Hirota

Auburn, ME St. Johnsbury Academy, St. Johnsbury, VT

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Seoul, Korea Taft School, Watertown, CT Tokyo, Japan Cushing Academy, Ashburnham, MA

Jiayi (Jessy) Ji

Wenzhou, China Canterbury School, New Milford, CT Ha Young (Irene) Jung

Seoul, Korea Blair Academy, Blairstown, NJ Yoon Jae (James) Kang

Seoul, Korea St. George’s School, Newport, RI Eugene Kim

Seoul, Korea Avon Old Farms School, Avon, CT Tae Wook (Tyler) Kim

Gyeonggi-do, Korea Kent School, Kent, CT Caroline Elizabeth Labbe

Pomfret Center, CT Pomfret School, Pomfret, CT Jae Hyeong (Jacob) Lee

Seoul, Korea Kent School, Kent, CT Sunjae (Olivia) Lee

Seoul, Korea St. George’s School, Newport, RI

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Each year, 9th graders don sweatshirts from the various schools where they are matriculating. With a diverse group in each graduating class, this photo shows the range of schools our graduates will attend the following year. As emphasized throughout the placement process, the names on the front of the sweatshirt are not as important as making sure that each sweatshirt, and the schools where our students are matriculating, are the right fit for each student.

Kevin (Jiawen) Li

Minyoung (Stella) Park

Jaylen Xzavier Smith

Mian (Steven) Wu

Pomfret, CT Pomfret School, Pomfret, CT

Pomfret Center, CT Northfield Mount Hermon School, Gill, MA

Holbrook, NY Cushing Academy, Ashburnham, MA

Ningbo, China Webb School, Bell Buckle, TN

Evelyn Laraine Stewart

Yitong Wu

Natalie Elizabeth Paul

Irvington, NJ Miss Hall’s School, Pittsfield, MA

Qinhuangdao, China Hotchkiss School, Lakeville, CT

AnaMaria Antoinette Suriano

Mahiro Yamakawa

Wenhan (Catherine) Li

Nanjing, China Pomfret School, Pomfret, CT Yutang (Louis) Liang

Beijing, China New Hampton School, New Hampton, NH Ruiqi Liu

Dalian, China Christchurch School, Christchurch, VA Emily Elizabeth McCarthy

Woodstock, CT Pomfret School, Pomfret, CT Alexander Norris Poulson

Boston, MA Williston Northampton School, Easthampton, MA Nathaniel Phillip Rice

Hampton, CT Pomfret School, Pomfret, CT Thomas James Rogalski

Quincy, MA Hebron Academy, Hebron, ME

Sturbridge, MA Avon Old Farms School, Avon, CT

Hayden Michael McGuinness

Samuel Salomon Perez

Little Compton, RI Deerfield Academy, Deerfield, MA Kenneth Patrick Mills

North Reading, MA Hebron Academy, Hebron, ME Olivia Isabel MyersElkins

New York, NY The American School in Switzerland, Switzerland

Mexico City, Mexico Colegio Merici, Mexico Xiangyu (Leo) Shi

Beijing, China Hill School, Pottstown, PA Susan (Nawon) Shin

Incheon, Korea Middlesex School, Concord, MA

Putnam, CT Cushing Academy, Ashburnham, MA Jin Tanaka

Tokyo, Japan Tabor Academy, Marion, MA Yifei (Max) Yang

Tokyo, Japan St. Mary’s School, Japan

Shanghai, China Mercersburg Academy, Mercersburg, PA

Thomas James Walden

Tian (David) Yun

Pomfret, CT Woodstock Academy, Woodstock, CT Jeffrey Wang

Beijing, China Governor’s Academy, Byfield, MA Xiaoai (Eileen) Wang

Beijing, China St. Paul’s School, Concord, NH Wyatt William Weekes

Shenzhen, China Northwest School, Seattle, WA Blake Asher Zahansky

Pomfret Center, CT Pomfret School, Pomfret, CT Qiyang (Charlie) Zhang

Beijing, China North Raleigh Christian Academy, Raleigh, NC

Loudonville, NY Concord Academy, Concord, MA Jacob Benjamin Weiss

New York, NY Cushing Academy, Ashburnham, MA

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“The best teaching is about caring, and, while I never had him in class, he was the greatest teacher I have ever known.�

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Compiled by Lisa W. Walsh ’84, Assistant Director of Communications

The heart and soul of the Rectory experience are our legendary faculty.

By “legendary” we don’t mean teachers who have been around a long time or who are simply memorable. We mean teachers, administrators, and staff members who have a profound impact on the lives of Rectory students. It’s the kind of impact that lasts a lifetime, which is why alumni return to visit Rectory year after year.

We spoke to alumni from different decades and asked them to tell us about the “legendary” faculty member whose influence stuck with them years after they graduated. Here’s what they had to say: Jack Bigelow ’50 (John B. Bigelow, Jr.)

Jim Whitehead was a World War II veteran returned to civilian life as a day teacher and coach at Rectory. I was a headmaster’s brat who acted out so badly that I was tossed out of my fourth-grade math class and privately tutored. My dad (Mr. John) asked Jim if he would take me the following year. Jim agreed, and Dad was quoted as saying “Thank God! He’s yours.” When class started that fall we were all told that there would be no excuse for missing homework. I, of course, ignored this and came to class unprepared. I spent the rest of the period standing to the side with my arms outstretched. The next few days saw a steady shortening of the “exercise” and more correct answers, as well. I finally realized that I was both good at and enjoyed the work.

This revival carried over to all my courses. After Rectory I visited Jim whenever I could and, surprise, spent most of my adult life as a respected and well-liked high school math teacher!

Claudia Abbott ’60

The Legendary Faculty whom I remember are Skip Jackman and Elsie Vance. Both teachers were experienced and models of class control and structured learning—Mr. Jackman with algebra and Mrs. Vance with Latin syntax and the diagramming of sentences. There wasn’t time within the class period to stray from the subject matter or the purpose of the class. Bob Fisher, who taught woodworking, was always amused by my lack of experience holding a hammer or saw.

His patience was endless. I would be remiss not to mention my mother, Karin (Kay) Saunders, who is legendary because of her 35 years of teaching at Rectory, her love of linguistics, and her success with international students.

Peter Howard ’77

When I think back to the teachers who inspired or influenced me the most, whether at Rectory School or elsewhere throughout my academic career, I always come back to the same person, who was not technically a teacher of mine at all. When I was in the fifth grade, my parents moved us from Woodstock to Putnam, CT in the middle of the school year. My mother, who was an antiques dealer, had found an early home in Putnam that she wanted to restore, and so off we went. Unfortunately for me, the school situation in Putnam was very different from the one I left in Woodstock, and I was bullied and

alone. It was a very rough place, and it was easy to fall in with the wrong crowd. I was in danger of losing my way. I began to skip school, running from the bus into the woods behind our home and hiding all day. I was about as sad and lost as I could be, and it didn’t take long for my parents to understand the gravity of the situation. After the school year ended, my mother took me to meet John Bigelow at Rectory.

From the moment I saw that warm smile and felt that gigantic hand wrap around mine, my life was changed forever. Mr. John sat down with me and made me feel so very welcome. He promised me that not only was Rectory going to be fine, it was going to be everything I wanted. And he was right. All through my first year as a sixth grader, he constantly checked with me to see how I was, how it was going.

He retired after that first year but stayed on and was always available to me. We stayed friends until he passed away, and he and Marga were guests at my wedding. To this day, I credit and thank him for saving me. The best teaching is about caring, and, while I never had him in class, he was the greatest teacher I have ever known.

Lisa W. Walsh ’84

The teacher who gave me great inspiration was Lillie “Swish” White.

Mrs. White was in charge of the drama department, and my fondest memories were participating in memorable shows such as Guys and Dolls and South Pacific. She had great enthusiasm and spirit and those productions are embedded in my memories through the songs, the costumes, and the lasting friendships formed with members of the casts.

Peter Ellsworth ’85

I still remember like it was yesterday being a student at Rectory. That was from 1983 to 1985 and John Green was headmaster. Mr. Green was very dedicated and hardworking. He had a strong passion for Rectory and always took a strong interest in getting to know each student. There was never a day where I did not run into Mr. Green on campus; he always smiled at me, asked how my day was going and how I was doing. Mr. Green was a great headmaster and a very special individual whose legacy is now commemorated at Rectory with the recent dedication of John and Millie Green Hall. There are quite a few “Legendary Rectory Faculty,” and John Green is certainly one that I will never forget.

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Jeff Lupient ’92

Grayce Gibbs ’15

Brad Seaward is the reason I attended Rectory after participating in the summer school program. He made me and my roommate a deal; if we came back to Rectory for eighth grade, he’d get us into Cedars Dormitory—and he did. He always pushed us to get out of the dormitories and do something outdoors. He always knew where students were from and who our baseball team was—he’d always know how those teams had done in their most recent games. He took us to Red Sox games and minor-league games. He’d do everything from hitting balls around on the tennis courts and playing catch to getting a pick-up game organized, and even handing out baseball cards. In the summer before ninth grade, it was Mr. Seaward who called me to tell me he wanted me to come and be a proctor. He is one of the main reasons I agreed to come back and be on Rectory’s Board of Trustees.

My Rectory experience began in kindergarten with Maria Carpenter.

Our large classroom allowed for incredible types of creative learning.

When doing a unit on the jungle, we painted leaves and strung them to pieces of string to create a curtain of vines. During the Antarctica unit, we made a paper-mâché Emperor penguin and were able to take a field trip to Mystic Aquarium. Every day, each student got to choose a word they didn’t know how to spell, and we added it to our classroomwide spelling board. Through these types of projects and so many others, Mrs. Carpenter instilled a love of learning in me that I continue to benefit from. Mrs. Carpenter has remained a good friend—I stop in whenever I’m back at Rectory, and this past year I was able to see her when she visited my high school.

Johnny L. L. Wells ’03

Julia Tatsch was my seventh- and eighth-grade dorm parent, as well as my seventh-grade English teacher during my tenure at Rectory. I will always remember her as one of the teachers who made me feel comfortable and at home, whether in the dorm or in the classroom.

Ms. Tatsch would go out of her way to have pizza parties or bonfires or take us on trips to Six Flags. In the classroom, she displayed a sheer love for educating and mentoring, as well as teaching us accountability and how to be creative through our thought process. Although English and writing were not my strongest subjects coming into Rectory, Ms. Tatsch helped me persevere, and through her class and guidance, I am able to more confidently express myself.

From the moment I sat in Claudia Ricci’s tutoring room in the basement of the main house, I knew she would be a guiding light for me at Rectory. Mrs. Ricci was my tutor in seventh grade. She fully understood what I needed to succeed at Rectory and in the years beyond. When I struggled with English and literature, she never allowed me to view it as struggle, but as an opportunity to get better, which allowed me to always find confidence within myself. Mrs. Ricci remains a mentor and a mother-like figure to me. Words cannot express the gratitude I have for her for always championing my success.

What memories do you have about the people at Rectory? who had a profound impact on your life? We’d love to hear your stories, especially as we prepare for Rectory’s Centennial Celebration! Send your stories to Lisa Walsh ’84 at lisa.walsh@rectoryschool.org.

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Legendary Faculty: Former Headmaster John A. Green with Will Carter at graduation in 1983. Below: Lillie “Swish” White (center) with Chris Wolf ’79 (left) and Kevin Tang ’82 (right) at Alumni Day 1983.

Top left: Mrs. Claudia Ricci working with a student during her popular Media Communications class. Above: The Summer School faculty of 1967: Back row, left to right: Mr. Fausbrother, Mr. Nielson, Mr. Acker, and Mr. Cooper. Front row, left to right: Mr. “Doc” Slater, Headmaster John Bigelow, Mr. “Skip” Jackman, and Mr. Hitchcock. Center left: Student Taylor Carney ’03 with Ms. Julia Tasch, former faculty. Bottom left to right: Mr. Brad Seaward has been making an impact on Rectory students’ lives, as a teacher, coach, dorm parent, and mentor for decades; Mrs. Maria Carpenter, Director of Elementary School with some of her students at last year’s Day Family Orientation; Mr. Bob Fisher and his wife, Pauline, at Mr. George Groom’s retirement party in 2003​.

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Supporting our Faculty the tang challenge for excellence in teaching When you remember your teachers, do you wish you could thank them? Do you wish you could express how much their influence impacted your life and helped you become the person that you are today?

Oscar Tang ’53 and his son, Kevin Tang ’82 wanted to do just that.

At a meeting several years ago, father and son spoke with Headmaster Fred Williams about their desire to thank and honor the teachers who helped them while they were students at Rectory, and ensure that Rectory would be able to continue to attract and retain the highest caliber of faculty. They also wanted to create an avenue to allow others to do so; thus the Tang Challenge for Excellence in Teaching was born.

Their initial outright gift of $2.5 million dollars immediately provided the school with the ability to increase the faculty-salary pool by more than $150,000 annually. Through the challenge, the Tangs created an opportunity for others to help Rectory strengthen its most important asset: its people.

When you think back to your early years in school, which teachers made a lasting impression on you? Maybe you love math and can remember standing at your teacher’s desk reciting multiplication tables, all the while knowing that if you answered them correct, you would see the pride and excitement on your teacher’s face. Perhaps you think back to the teacher who set up the science labs that made you question process and procedures, piquing your interest in chemistry or biology.

Or possibly your love of reading can be directly linked to the teacher who patiently helped you sound out the letters until they formed the words that became beloved stories.

With our Centennial Celebration approaching, we are gathering your stories about the outstanding people at Rectory. If you choose to honor someone who made a difference in your life with a gift to the School, the Tangs will double your gift by providing a one-to-one match. It is a perfect way to both honor and remember the legendary faculty who helped build Rectory into the school it is today while ensuring a strong Rectory experience for tomorrow’s students.

The Challenge Initial Outright Gift

$2,500,000

Challenge Goal

$2,500,000

1:1 Match

$2,500,000

Total

$7,500,000

What that means: Each year Rectory will be able to draw a percentage from The Tang Family Endowment that will help supply the School with the necessary funds to help support our teachers with increased benefits and salaries.

Progress by the numbers: $1,500,000 raised as of June 30, 2017.

167 donors Current and past parents, alumni, current and past trustees, current and past faculty and staff, current and past grandparents.

The immediate impact on our faculty: $50,000 was used to increase teachers’ salaries in 2016.

$100,000 in additional funds were used to increase teachers’ salaries in 2017.

$325,000+ “This challenge allows everyone associated with Rectory to make the difference that can help stimulate the best possible performance in Rectory’s classrooms.”

Kevin Tang ’82

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will be generated annually when our goal is met.

Erin Bradley, Math Teacher At Rectory our faculty help guide students through different stages of their adolescent development, not only in the classroom but also on the sports fields and, if they are boarding students, in the dormitories. Math teacher, coach, and dorm parent, Erin Bradley grew up in a home where both her parents taught math, so it has always been her passion. To her, math is just like a big puzzle and teaching math is about helping her students put the puzzle pieces in the right place.

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An Exciting New Look for Rectory School After many months of planning and developing, it is with great pride that we unveil the new logo for Rectory School. While many of you will have already received an email and/or letter from Headmaster Williams announcing this decision to change our logo, we wanted to give you a more in-depth overview of the thought process and Rectory community involvement that went into this.

The decision to change the Rectory School logo was a thoughtful and thorough process that took months to complete, and this followed years of discussions at the board level. Based on conversations with alumni, current and past parents, students, and employees during focus groups last spring, we knew that while the Schoolboy logo represented the School’s history, it no longer fully represented all that Rectory is today. We also knew that if we were retiring the Schoolboy logo we absolutely had to create something in its place that would resonate as strongly with members of Rectory’s community. Alumni stories and memories around Rectory’s Father Bigelow Memorial Dormitory bell showed us how imperative it was to include our bell tower in the new logo design. Rectory’s bell, the sounding of which has brought Rectory’s community together since 1938, was

determined to be an icon that our community would support and rally around. We’ve found this to be true in the overwhelmingly positive response (and fond memories) we’ve received since we started sharing the new logo this summer.

“When they say it’s a community, it’s true.

As long as there are good teachers and as long as they keep reaching out to people to help them with what they need next (and I haven’t known anyone to fail at that here) that is the defining aspect. You know you will be somewhere where people will care about you.” young alumnus interviewed in a focus group

The Journey to A New Rectory School Logo At the end of the 2015-2016 academic year, Rectory School engaged the services of a marketing consultant to assist the School in our branding and marketing efforts, one of the strategic goals identified by the Board.

Working with a task force comprising School administrators and members of the Board of Trustees, the consultants, Hans Mundahl and Associates, were hired.

When they came to campus, Hans Mundahl and his associate, Lisa Leidy from SquareSpot Design, immediately fell in love with the School and our people. Throughout that summer and fall, they helped us with market and competitive research, conducted an alumni survey, and held focus groups with alumni, parents, students, employees, and community members to get a sense of what “Rectory School” meant to them.

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The conversations within the focus groups also helped us take the first steps on a new visual identity journey. Based on these discussions, it was determined that we should consider a new logo designed to more accurately represent today’s Rectory School. It was also determined that Rectory’s “wolf paw” brand, already in use, would continue to be used for athletics and spirit wear. With a slight modification to the original wolf paw design for unified branding and consistency in usage, the revised athletic brand was approved by the Board at their January 2017 meetings and was introduced in the Winter 2017 issue of The Rectory News.

At the October 2016 board meetings, the task force was charged with beginning the new logo design process. Crucial to the design process of the School’s main logo

was maintaining Rectory’s history and sense of community; It was also important that the School’s name was visible and identifiable, even from a distance. The design process, which began immediately following the board meetings in October, included many discussions and iterations. The final design was unanimously supported by the task force and the Board of Trustees. The new logo received overwhelmingly approval by Rectory’s employees when it was unveiled at the end-of-school meetings. Many faculty members were heard to say, “I was hoping the new logo would include the bell tower!” and “I love it!”

The “Schoolboy” logo served Rectory School well for many years. We now retire it with great respect and honor to our archives as we venture forth towards the next century.

The New Logo Elements The decision to use the bell tower made sense on many levels. Bell towers have historically often been the tallest point in a region or a town. Interestingly enough in Italy there is a powerful word, campanilismo, derived from the word campanile meaning bell tower. Bell towers were a center point for these ancient communities, the concept of campanilismo means to have a love or devotion to one’s city, village, or even a region. The use of the bell tower for Rectory School as we approach our Centennial Celebration and look to the next century, emphasizes the love for our school, the community, and the legendary faculty that have help build it and sustain it.

Our bell tower, which rises above the entire campus on top of the Father Bigelow Memorial Dormitory, has been an icon of Rectory School since the dormitory’s opening on September 20, 1938. Over the years, many new additions to our facilities include cupolas. In addition to the Memorial Dorm, you will find one on Hamilton Dorm, the new apartment between Memorial and Dining, the admissions office, the Seaward Pavilion, and now John and Millie Green Hall, which houses the Hale Elementary School Wing and the Smith Learning Center.

“I will never forget my first day of 7th grade—waking up and seeing my dorm parent, Brian Sullivan, petrified he was going to ring it (the bell) a second late. So he sat in a chair for fifteen minutes under the rope to ring exactly when the clock struck.”

–Zach Haigney ’10 via Instagram

The Memorial Dormitory bell, with its handpull rope snaking down into the second-floor hallway, rings today just as it has for eight decades. It wakes us up in the morning, calls us to class, reminds us of mealtime, and invites us to gather as a community. The weathervane above the tower signifies the direction Rectory provides for our students as they travel the meaningful path towards a life of promise and fulfillment.

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The green legacy continues at Rectory

By Brad & Mary Lou Seaward On a beautiful Saturday afternoon in April, members of the Rectory School community, along with people who traveled to campus, gathered to celebrate the life of John Green, to remember the contributions he and his wife, Millie, made to our community, and to dedicate the School’s new academic center as the John and Millie Green Hall. Millie Green, accompanied by their four sons, John, Peter, Dan, and Matt, shared fond memories of the John Green years with the individuals in the crowd. John Green taught at Rectory School in the 1960s. He returned to the School to serve as Rectory’s third Headmaster for seventeen years, from 1974 to 1990.

Headmaster Fred Williams referred to the Greens’ tenure as “storied years on the Rectory campus as the School enjoyed great success under the incredibly capable and tireless leadership of the Green family.” He stated, “Mr. Green had one purpose in mind, the betterment of Rectory School and the individuals within the community.”

Mr. Williams also quoted people who sent along their thoughts and congratulations. Charlie Walbridge ’62 wrote, “Mr. Green once told me that all I needed to succeed as a football player was desire. It got me working harder and started in football and in life. Thank you, Mr. Green. I never forgot.”

Brad Seaward spoke about John and Millie Green and of the impact they have had on him and so many others. Brad described Mr. Green’s time at Rectory as marked with “unconditional and unmatched love for his family and for this School.” He also noted that “Mrs. Green was the rock. She was there in the background advising, and she was always right!” He concluded his comments with, “There are a lot of good people in this world. This family is GREAT people. Their work and spirit can be found everywhere on this campus.”

Millie said that John felt it was important that he be thought of first and foremost as a teacher. Those of us who worked with him, as well as hundreds of students with whom he came in contact, continue to think of him in the context of the many life lessons he taught us. Even in conversations with Mr. Green after he retired, he always left us with wise words to ponder.

Mr. Williams’ dedication ended with, “Rectory is indebted for all the Greens have done for Rectory and we are pleased the

Green name will welcome students, faculty, and guests into our newest academic center where, just as one alumnus noted, ‘The work that goes on within will change lives.’ I present the John and Millie Green Hall.”

We echo those sentiments and continue to celebrate the lives of John and Millie Green and the impact they have had on Rectory School.

Left: Millie Green and

her sons, Matthew Green ’82, Daniel Green ’79, Peter Green ’76, and John Green, were in attendance, as were a number of former Rectory faculty who worked alongside John Green during his time as headmaster from 19741990 (right).

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CELEBRATING Award Winners The Freeman Graduate School Award | Alex Wiegel

Presented by Fred Williams This award, given by Louis Sr. and Judy Freeman in honor of their grandchildren, McDaniel ’06 and Pierce ’08, is given to that member of the faculty who demonstrates keen scholarly interest, and who is working on an advanced degree or pursuing studies directly related to their teaching and intellectual pursuits.

Once a part of our family, always a part of our Rectory family. So it goes for this employee, who showed up for an alumni reunion and left with a job and, shortly thereafter, a fiancée.

This man continues to take on more and more responsibility as he keeps a very important part of the Rectory ship moving forward. Computers will not take over the world, but they do play a very important role in it and in our educational and business operations here at Rectory.

This recipient has helped to assure we can access our email, our folders, our files, even our social media. More importantly, he helps to do all the things that need to occur behind the scenes so we have a pleasant, error-free experience on our user end. In typical Rectory style, he also dons the coaching sweatshirt most winter afternoons as he dusts off his fencing talents first learned at Rectory to coach the current team, and he puts on his dorm parent attire as he assists with life on Memorial Dorm. Now our ever-inquisitive tech guy seeks to further enhance his understandings of all things digital as he pursues a degree in computer sciences, and we are proud to assist in the effort.

Rosbottom Scholarship | Fran Morano

Presented by Fred Williams The Rosbottom Scholar, who receives the award given by Harold and Leslie Rosbottom and family, is selected by the Headmaster in recognition of excellence in teaching and in the pursuit of professional development. The recipient models and embraces those characteristics of outstanding teaching and learning.

Great teachers succeed because of their passion for the subject and their commitment to their students. This year’s Rosbottom Scholar recipient excels in both areas. A hands-on person, this educator engages students by bringing them into contact with that which they are studying, even if this means a multi-hour flight to Arkansas’ Crater of Diamonds State Park so that kids can prospect for genuine diamonds the real way, or a bus ride to Harvard University so students can play animal detective in the museum of natural history. An avid pursuer of professional development, this teacher studied botany and vertebrate paleontology, all in an effort to provide her students with a great learning experience. And she got to take home some hissing cockroaches as a gift. Now she will turn her attention to articulating and documenting the grade 6 science program, while refining what she does in grade 5. We thank her for her dedication to her subject and her students, in and out of the classroom.

Army Family Award | Caroline Murphy

Presented by Emily McCarthy ’17 and Kathleen Fogarty ’17 This award is presented to the member of the faculty, administration, or staff who, in the mind of the Rectory girls, has done the most to support, guide, nurture, inspire, and encourage young women at Rectory School. By their votes, the female students have recognized and appreciated this person’s dedication and hard work on their behalf.

Even though the recipient of the Army Award today has only been at Rectory for one year, her contributions to the girls have been tremendous. Her strong personality and willingness to help others have been noticed by many. Ms. Murphy has been a wonderful leader and a great role model for the girls. She gives us advice and helps us through all the obstacles life throws at us. Ms. Murphy is a perfect example of what a strong woman is, and she has helped many of the girls take pride in who they are. We all would like to congratulate you in receiving this year’s Army Award.

Thank you for all your help and your dedication to this community, especially the girls!

The John Hazen White Sr. ’28, Cup | Jackson Medeiros ’18

Presented by Fred Williams This cup is presented annually to that Rectory rising ninth-grade student who, in the opinion of the Headmaster and faculty, “best exemplifies those human characteristics Mr. White so greatly admired, including community service, responsibility, selfsufficiency, passion, ethical leadership, and moral courage.”

Do you know the capital of Indonesia? Or the name of the currency in Argentina? And can you spell mitochondria? Or phosphorous? This year’s Hazen White Sr. Award winner can, and in doing so he reveals a worldliness and intelligence that goes a long way in honoring Mr. White’s legacy. When asked what his favorite class was, our geography and spelling bee whiz replied, “History and science.” When asked what his least favorite class was he struggled to come up with an answer, and then he finally gave up and said, “I like all my classes!”

This young man’s outlook on school and life is positive and upbeat.

He wants to do everything, but in doing so he is also very mindful of others. For example, he loves a good discussion, where he values both sharing his perspectives and listening to the views of others.

He is strong on the soccer and baseball fields, not only because of his athleticism, but also because he is always looking out for the good of the team. He loves banging the hi-hats on the drum set and has become the drummer for jazz band and leader in the percussion section of the orchestra. He is a young man with many interests, abundant talent, and impressive personal qualities, and he is well deserving of this recognition.

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CELEBRATING Kellogg Award Winners: LISA GOULD & ERIN HAYDEN Presented to Lisa Gould by Fred Williams For me, a person who has trouble drawing legible stick figures, the notion of creating recognizable art, much less art with a statement, is a foreign and frustrating concept. All that would have been different if I had been a Rectory student guided by this individual. For 16.4 years, she has been instructing and mentoring students in our art classes as they demonstrate skills far beyond anything I was ever able to achieve, yet her contributions, while centered in the art barn, extend far beyond those walls.

chronicle of our Rectory years, and her efforts will tell our Rectory students’ tales for perpetuity.

We are proud of the art our students create at Rectory, and a walk through our academic spaces reveals the depth and breadth of our projects. Self-expressive drawings, black and white photography, reflective paintings, and clay sculptures showcase the creative talents of our students inspired by this individual. I took a photo of one of these pieces recently and sent it to the young artist’s parents. The response was immediate and sincere. Mom sent back an all caps with three exclamation points: “WOW!!!” Dad said his own art skills emerged in middle school, and he was impressed and pleased to see his son’s talents. Creativity will prove to be an invaluable factor in our students’ lives as they enter in to their professional careers, and time with this teacher most certainly develops this trait.

Art is alive and well at Rectory, thanks in large part to this teacher. Our walls, but more importantly, our graduates, reflect her talents, interests, and personal qualities. They are her masterpieces. For these reasons and more, it is with great appreciation I present this Kellogg Award to Mrs. Lisa Gould.

True art, however, is about more than being creative. As Mr. Ames wrote of this person, “Your teaching of art goes much deeper than getting students to produce art; you get them to examine the social and cultural aspects as well.” Our goal is for our students to recognize they have a voice, and it is their responsibility—to themselves and others—to use that voice. This teacher provides encouragement and opportunity for this on a regular basis, and she lets her students know that sometimes the strongest statements are not composed with words.

We all know that at Rectory you may have a primary task, but your responsibilities expand beyond any one area. Were this not the case, we likely would not have an equestrian program. In sharing her passion for horses, this teacher has created a sports offering that allows others—whether novice or experienced—to enjoy the thrill of riding, and to benefit from the responsibility of caring for these wonderful creatures. How exciting to know that some of her equestrians now compete at a national level, and that their talents took huge strides forward while competing for Rectory under this coach.

Additionally, when we look back on our lives at Rectory, it will be this teacher and the words and images compiled in our yearbook, Turning Point, who will refresh our memories to the growth and joy that occurred on this campus. For years, she has guided and born the weighty duty of compiling and publishing this most impressive 22

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When asked to assess her strengths, the same student’s comments, first and foremost, spoke of this teacher’s commitment to the young men and women under her tutelage. This is followed closely by her creativity and her varied approach to instruction. Her students also greatly appreciate the learning environment she creates, which is conducive to taking risks and inspires enjoyment for—and curiosity about—the subject.

Presented to Erin Hayden by Fred Williams Every morning as I walk to breakfast in the dining hall, I pass cars parked outside of our Children at Rectory School early childhood program. As I do so, I am regularly reminded of a comment a former colleague made. She said, “When you take a child by the hand and walk into a school, you are taking a parent by the heart.” Sending a child to school is the ultimate demonstration of trust, and nowhere is this more evident than during a child’s youngest school years. Fortunately, this individual has helped to build a program that is welcoming, collaborative, and educationally sound as our CARe children begin their first years of formal education.

Too many in this room, through no fault of their own, have probably not ventured in to the CARe space. I recommend you change that because when you do, you will see in the children a level of joy, curiosity, and playfulness that rivals anything on our campus. You will also see in the adults working there a commitment to the well-being of the students that assures the children’s progress academically and socially. The success and satisfaction our students and staff enjoy are in large part attributable to this individual.

Professionally, she leads by example with an impressive work ethic. In addition to establishing a high standard of conduct among her staff, she takes on any and all things that come her way. This means she is often with the children either tending to her own work or filling in for anyone absent. While the children and her team benefit from this dedication, this means her administrative tasks get pushed to the end of the day, or more likely the evening or early morning. But they always get done.

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Rectory is proud to be the only NAEYC—National Association of Educators of Young Children—accredited early childhood program in the area. This designation reflects the high standards this individual has for herself and our program. This recipient is also open minded and is constantly pursuing—through her own professional development and the input of her team—ways to make the CARe program even stronger. In recent years one of her focus areas has been communication, so now each week our CARe parents receive photos and text detailing the activities in the classroom. The impact this has on parents is significant, as is the work required to generate this meaningful communication.

If running the CARe program, including heavy support for the after school program, were not enough, this individual sits on the administrative team and contributes to the greater good of the school.

As an administrator, this recipient speaks up for her division, all the while offering counsel and perspective on other aspects of school life. She can also be found on a dorm supporting our residential life coverage.

Rectory thrives because of committed, talented individuals such as this person. Thus it is with great appreciation that I award this Kellogg Vacation Grant to Mrs. Erin Hayden.

The Kellogg Award was established by Peter Kellogg ’57 in honor of his mother, Mrs. James Crane Kellogg III, to recognize Rectory employees for their dedication and commitment to the School.

Each year, two teachers, tutors, office assistants, maintenance workers, or administrators are selected to be recipients of this prestigious award because of their many years of service to the School and/ or their special help to the school or students. This year’s recipients are Lisa Gould and Erin Hayden.

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Rectory Regatta

The eighth Annual Rectory Regatta took place on Saturday, June 3. Students had spent the previous three weekends crafting their vessels out of cardboard and duct tape.

Each team worked very hard creating their boat and making it pond worthy. To start the regatta, students stood by their boats on the banks of the Rectory Pond and answered judges’ questions about their boats. The judges of the regatta this year were Mr. Long, Mr. Smith, Mr. Walden, and Ms. O’Neil.

Then, the teams donned life jackets and set sail as the rest of the community cheered them on. Although some teams did not make it across the pond, each team brought great enthusiasm and energy to the regatta. Prizes were given for best team uniforms, most spirit, best design, quickest to sink, and best overall. The winner of this year’s regatta was Team Rub-a-Dub-Dub.

CELEBRATING OUR FIRST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CLASS!

Graduation season is always a special time of year, but this year had extra special meaning at Rectory. This June, our original five kindergarten students, who attended Rectory during the 2004–05 school year, graduated from high school! Mrs. Carpenter was honored to attend Melissa Browne’s graduation from Pomfret School, and she almost didn’t recognize Toni Ramos, who was also in the audience and came to celebrate graduation with her kindergarten friend. These students, who had families that believed in Rectory when our elementary school was only a dream, will always be connected to us and hold a special place in our hearts. Congratulations to Melissa Browne, Toni Ramos, Sofia Chokshi, Max Paro, and Talia Morison-Allen! We are so proud of each of you!

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above left: “Team Rub-a-Dub-Dub” prepares to launch! Top right: Mr. Seaward and Mr. and Mrs. Williams prepare to hit the pond. Above right: Elementary School Director, Mrs. Carpenter with Melissa Brown, a student from Rectory’s very first kindergarten class. below: Since our first five students in 2004, our Elementary School community continues to grow and celebrate each child’s educational journey. This year, the elementary students have enjoyed connecting their learning through shared conferences in the new Hale Elementary School Wing in John and Millie Green Hall.

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Capstone Project

First implemented during the 2014–2015 academic year, the Capstone provides an opportunity for our ninth graders to explore, and consider solutions to, issues that are present in today’s society. In order to complete this project, ninth graders are paired with a faculty Capstone Leader who provides guidance throughout the process of researching, writing an essay, and crafting a poster. This project culminates with a ninthgrade Capstone Fair, during which faculty, students, and outside visitors are invited to view and discuss these projects with the ninth graders.

On May 5, students, faculty, and friends of Rectory supported our ninth graders during the third Annual Capstone Fair. Every ninth grader was beaming with pride and so happy to share the culminating moment of all their hard work with each and every guest. As a community, we couldn’t be more proud of their success! Above: Anna Suriano with her parents Jo Ann Morelli Suriano and Ed Suriano. Below: On June 6, Rectory students, faculty, and parents gathered for our annual Sending Chapel at the spacious, majestic Pomfret Chapel.

Congratulations to the following students who earned special recognition: Best Overall: Yitong Wu, Fake News: The Pollution that is Sabotaging Our Society Best Poster: Aeden Connelly, Coral Bleaching Most Passionate about Topic:

Alexander Greene, The Adoption Ban: Saving Russian Orphans Best Oral Presentation: Emily McCarthy, Successful Athletes Endorsing “Healthy” Products Sending Chapel

This year’s Sending Chapel presented students’ musical performances, several enlightening readings, and retiring tutor Mrs. Nancy Green’s sage keynote address to our graduating ninth graders. Among the many elements of the service was the lighting of the peace candle, which symbolizes Rectory’s solidarity with those areas of the globe caught up in the chaos of war and confusion of terror. This service ties together our gratitude for our fortune here and the graduating class’s awareness of injustice abroad. We wish Mrs. Green well in her future adventures! And we wholeheartedly thank those who participated to make this gathering a grounding ritual for the transitional, graduation season.

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around campus

campus events Spring Weekend Rectory alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends returned to campus for our annual Spring Weekend April 28–29. On Friday, parents, grandparents, and guests attended classes with their students and enjoyed the spring concerts. The events on Saturday included the Fun Run, athletic games, ninth grade vs. faculty volleyball game, all-school cookout, and lawn games and activities at the Seaward Family Pavilion and Wang Family Amphitheater.

A special highlight of this year’s Spring Weekend was the dedication of John and Millie Green Hall. Named in honor of Rectory’s third headmaster and his wife for their lasting contributions to Rectory School, John and Millie Green Hall houses the Hale Elementary School Wing and the Smith Learning Center, home to Rectory’s signature Individualized Instruction Program (IIP).

At the annual Alumni Dinner on Saturday evening, Headmaster Fred Williams presented Betty Hale, GP ’16, ’19, ’21 with the Distinguished Service Award for her ongoing support of Rectory and the community.

There were alumni from class years 1960-2016 in attendance at the dinner, as well as Betty’s friends and family, and representatives from local organizations that have benefited from Betty and the Hale family’s support. In his remarks while presenting the award, Mr.

Williams shared a quote from Betty’s daughter-in-law, Jane, about Betty’s community involvement: “Betty has a genuine interest in people’s lives and seeing where she can help them live life more fully.”

Mr. Williams closed the award dedication by expressing gratitude for Betty’s significant contributions to Rectory and the broader community: “Rectory School and countless other entities are indebted to Betty Hale for so generously sharing her energy, her passion, and her resources. She is a role model for all generations and so worthy of this distinguished service award.”

Headmaster Fred Williams presented Rectory’s Distinguished Service Award to Mrs. Betty Hale, GP ’16, ’19, ’21, for her significant contributions to Rectory and the broader community.

students, parents, and employees take to the streets of campus for the Annual fun run. Wearing outfits as silly as they could find, participants eagerly tackled the 2-mile trail and were greeted at the finish line by Wolfie!

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around campus

Eighth–Grade Leadership Luncheon

Parents of eighth-grade students were invited to join Headmaster Fred Williams and Rectory faculty and administrators at the annual eighth-grade Leadership Luncheon on Thursday, June 8, at 11:30 AM in the dining hall. At the luncheon, we celebrated the eighth graders becoming the leaders of the school and recognized those eighth-grade students who were departing. The event began with

elementary school students each sharing a favorite memory with their eighth-grade buddy. Then Mr. Williams acknowledged the students who were moving on and shared a little about each one, including where he or she would be attending school next year. Finally, Rectory alumnus Steve Lanzit ’02 spoke about how his time at Rectory influenced the development of his identity as a leader and the effect it has had on his life over the years. He also emphasized the importance of remaining “connected to your school, even after you graduate, because it’s important to remember those who helped you become the person you are today.” In keeping with tradition, each eighth grader received a Rectory School patch, and graduating students will receive a Rectory Alumni Association pin at graduation next year.

Board of Visitors

On Monday, April 17, the Rectory School Board of Visitors (BOV) met for its seventh annual spring meeting. Comprised of alumni, current and past parents, and friends of Rectory, the Board of Visitors exists to serve as ambassadors for Rectory School, to communicate and promote the school’s mission, and to provide input and advice to the Headmaster and administration on relevant school topics. Board of Visitors members began their day by attending the spring citizenship awards and enjoying student performances from the jazz band and RECappella. From there, Headmaster Fred Williams and Chair of the Board of Trustees Laurence Hale welcomed the BOV and gave an update on the state of the school.

Then BOV members had the opportunity to attend classes and engage with a student panel on topics including academics, athletics, residential life, the arts, and the unique sense of community at Rectory. After a delicious lunch prepared by Rectory’s own Chef Dave and team, BOV members attended a presentation by Hans Mundahl and participated in small group discussions about Rectory’s identity and branding. The group ended the day with a campus tour led by Student Ambassadors and a reception in the new Smith Learning Center.

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athletics

Spring Athletics – The Rectory News rectory athletics: More than just winning The spring season was a perfect ending to an outstanding year in Rectory athletics. Although we suffered through some un-

Athletics are so much more than wins and losses, and time spent on a team has value beyond measure. Our seasonably chilly weather, spirits were high and players worked diligently with coaches to develop the skills and fundamentals coaches understand this and communicate it to, and model it for, our athletes every day. By the end of the necessary to play their respective sports. The more veteran varsity teams took to learning and understanding the intricacies of season, teams becomeplaying families more beentougher learned than just how put points on a scoreboard. each game andhave experienced at and higher levelshas against competition.

The to softball team looked sharp in their new

uniforms, and the girls’ lacrosse program had its largest turnout yet. Mr. Gray, once named most valuable player (MVP) of

A recent letter sent to our Athletic Director, from an helm opposing coach a tournament in which seasons the varsity boys’ lacrosse team, returned to the Mr. teamHealy, this year at the and led themafter to one of their most successful years.played The coaches truly have muchepitomizes fun out on our playing fields as thetostudents and possess a sincere passion hisinteam against one of just our as teams, what we are trying accomplish through athletics at for what they do. Each student each team improved a great deal this spring because of their hard work and dedication. They Rectory School and how ourand student athletes present themselves as good human beings first and competitive worked together, played together, and earned victories together both on and off the fields. athletes second.

Hello Director Healy, against your school, and We just took part in a tournament reach out and say thank you!

I feel the need to

ent it nicely. We were clearly at a tournam We are having a down year…to put , or was preparedness, or competitiveness where we did not belong, whether it quite easily all day, and this is where even skill level. We were being defeated your team really stood out.

The purpose of Rectory’s athletics is to inspire a lifelong commitment to physical fitness and health and to promote risk-taking and self-confidence.

Although inter-school competition is a large part of our program, the emphasis is on individual success, enjoyment, skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Varsity teams are extremely competitive and successful, while other levels help students develop basic skills. Participation in the sports program is mandatory for all students during each of the three seasons. Every student has a chance to participate on a team at the level that suits his or her skill level so that each can experience success and growth.

l and talent that I can only dream to Your team was far superior, with skil y many others with their character. The coach, but they were also superior to saying, our shortcomings without blatantly made adjustments to accommodate “Don’t shoot,” or “Five passes.” who are playing the sport for the first As the coach of my team, half of them us and preserve our morale during a time, I appreciate the effort to include extra with skill, competitiveness, and an hard day. The way your team played ks to the quality of your coaches, and dose of self-awareness, I imagine, spea ment. perhaps to your overall school environ r team rly communicating a message to thei I want to thank your coaches for clea game team,” and adjusting their normal that “hey, we don’t need to destroy this ents. you don’t normally find in tournam plans to demonstrate humility that ram, say thank you! You have a great prog So, I wanted to reach out to you and and school reflect the character of this team and I hope all your sports teams and their coaches.

Thank you.

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In its inaugural year, the Rectory swim team consisted of 19 swimmers from sixth through ninth grades.

Competing in eight meets, every swimmer made excellent progress throughout the season.

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athletics

winter sports

Boys Varsity A Basketball

Girls Varsity Basketball

Boys Varsity B Basketball

Girls JV Basketball

Boys JV Basketball

Recreational Basketball

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athletics

Wrestling

Movement

Squash

Fitness

Fencing The Rectory News | summer 2017

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athletics

winter sports Rectory’s winter season exemplified the good sportsmanship and character development that is inherent to Rectory’s athletic philosophy. John Bigelow’s words, “…to win without pride, to lose without rancor…” are certainly goals that Rectory athletes strive to achieve. Some teams experienced building years and students enjoyed participating in a new sport. Highlights include: wrestling did well in the Fessenden Tournament; the varsity hockey team placed third in the Upland Country Day Tournament; the boys’ varsity basketball team won the Hillside Tournament and the New York City Boys’ Club Tournament; the girls’ varsity basketball team was undefeated and won the Greenwich Country Day School Tournament.

Above: Varsity Hockey. Below: JV Hockey

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(continued)

athletics

spring sports The spring season was a perfect ending to an outstanding year in Rectory athletics. Although we suffered through some unseasonably chilly weather, spirits were high and players worked diligently with coaches to develop the skills and fundamentals necessary to play their respective sports. The more veteran varsity teams took to learning and understanding the intricacies of each game and experienced playing at higher levels against tougher competition. The softball team looked sharp in their new uniforms, and the girls’ lacrosse program had its largest turnout yet.

Mr. Gray, once named most valuable player (MVP) of Rectory’s varsity boys’ lacrosse team, returned to the team this year at the helm and led them to one of their most successful seasons in years. The coaches truly have just as much fun out on our playing fields as the students and possess a sincere passion for what they do. Each student and each team improved a great deal this spring because of their hard work and dedication. They worked together, played together, and earned victories together both on and off the fields.

Below: Girls Varsity Lacrosse (left) and Boys Varsity Lacrosse (right).

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athletics

spring sports

(continued)

Boys JV Lacrosse

Softball

Varsity Baseball

JV Baseball

Varsity Golf

JV Golf

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athletics

Varsity Tennis

JV Tennis

Track & Field The Rectory News | summer 2017

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alumni

alumni events Young Alumni Day

Young alumni from the classes of 2014–2016 returned to campus the first weekend in February for our annual Young Alumni Day. During their time on campus, they cheered on their friends on Rectory athletic teams, including hockey, squash, fencing, and basketball. There was a highly competitive alumni vs. ninth grade dodgeball game, and even Mr. Williams jumped into the competition to join the alumni for a few rounds. In addition to catching up with their favorite faculty and friends still at Rectory at athletic games and meals throughout the day, they enjoyed food and games at Brittain House, including giant Jenga, Mario Kart on the Wii, and Apples to Apples. It was great to have so many young alumni back on campus!

Korean Alumni Reunion

While graduation was taking place on the Rectory School campus, a group of Korean alumni were gathering at an alumni reunion thousands of miles away in Seoul, Korea. On Saturday, June 10, a group of Rectory alumni organized a reunion with about twenty Rectory alumni in attendance. This group, Korean Alumni at Rectory (KAR), independently organizes reunions each year that provide Korean alumni a chance to reconnect with one another and to stay connected with Rectory from across the world. This year’s group enjoyed a meal together and held a raffle for items donated by members. We love to see our alumni staying connected to one another!

Boston Reception

On Wednesday, May 17, Rectory alumni, parents, and friends gathered at Harpoon Brewery in Boston for a Rectory reception. Attendees enjoyed Harpoon beer, freshly baked soft pretzels, and a brewery tour led by Harpoon staff. Alumni from class years 1990–2012 were in attendance, as were current and past parents, and friends of Rectory. It was a great opportunity for members of the Rectory family to get to know each other and to learn more about the Rectory community. We enjoyed hosting an event in Boston and hope to do so again soon!

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alumni

Thank you to everyone who made a gift to the Annual Fund for Rectory.

Your support makes a difference.

in 2016-2017 the annual fund for rectory raised

$709,723 thanks to 670 donors.

a gift to the annual fund supports: Professional development for

100% Leaving the Wolf Den

During the first week of May, the Alumni & Development Office hosted “Leaving the Wolf Den” events each night. This was the first round of end-of-year celebration events for graduating students. During these events, ninth-grade students came to the Deal House to enjoy pizza, words of wisdom from Rectory alumni, and a conversation about what it means to become a Rectory alumnus(a). They also wrote themselves letters for a time capsule that will be opened at their tenth reunion, nominated their class agents who will serve as contacts for their class in coordinating future reunion events, and learned about what it means to give back to the school with their ninth-grade class gift. The ninth graders gathered on Friday, June 9, following graduation rehearsal to bury their time capsule.

of our faculty

financial aid to

88

families a 17% increase over

join us at an alumni event!

If you are interested in attending Rectory Alumni events or hosting one in your area, please contact: Amy Lusa at amy.lusa@rectoryschool.org We’d love to see you!

the previous year

our new sport

Swimming The Rectory News | summer 2017

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alumni

alumni notes 1950s John “Jack” Bigelow Jr. ’50 Jack is retired and living in Florida.

Blair Bigelow ’52 Blair is now in the middle of a three-year term on Rectory’s Board of Trustees. As the son of Rectory’s second headmaster, John Bigelow, a graduate, and a trustee, he is pleased and impressed with how well Rectory has changed and how well it has retained its core values. He has been connected in one way or another with five educational institutions and says, “Rectory is, all in all, at the top of the list.”

Norman “Coop” Cooper ’55 Norm is retired and living on Gardner Lake in Oakdale, CT. He and his wife are now hosting on Airbnb and have had a lot of fun meeting people from all over the world.

Norman “Punch” Smith ’56 Punch is retired and turned 75 in May. He volunteers with a number of organizations and initiatives, including SCORE, the Low Country Food Bank, the National Medal of Honor Museum, Marine Corps League, the County RNC as precinct chairman, and Bible study as leader. He also serves as president of the Patriots Point Foundation and is the Director of Next Steps of Mount Pleasant, a mentoring ministry that fosters change, dignity, and self-reliance within neighbors living in poverty, through a structured selfhelp process. In his free time, Punch enjoys playing tennis three mornings a week and works out at the senior center daily.

1960s Claudia Abbott (Saunders) ’60 Even though she is enjoying her recent retirement, Claudia still stays in touch with Rectory students and is back on campus frequently as a judge and helper in the Spelling Bee, or as a kitchen elf during the Heart-y Party in December. Claudia is also involved

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Santa Claus ’61 in front of his distinctive candy cane house number sign.

with Literacy Volunteers with her husband, Bill. This year will be a busy time for her family because her older son is planning to be married at her home next summer. Both of her sons live in Texas, Dallas and Houston respectively, so it’s exciting to have the time to visit them. In the meantime, her two Maine coon cats are important members of the family and always delighted to be center stage.

Claudia enjoys Alumni Weekend and writes, “Alumni Weekend is always a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends who knew you during your middle school years.”

This May, Claudia and her husband were delighted to have a classmate, Alan Forsyth ’60, stay with them for several nights. They enjoyed hearing about members of his family, his brother, John ’60, and especially about his two adorable grandchildren. As alumni read this update and others, Claudia hopes they will also reconnect and share news about themselves.

Thomas Quinn ’60 Tom retired three years ago and is enjoying skiing in the winter time and beaching, kayaking, and playing golf in the summer.

He and his wife have traveled throughout Europe and the United States. He has become a fervent Red Sox and Patriots fan.

Santa Claus ’61 Santa currently resides in the city of North Pole, AK, where he serves as a councilman and a State of Alaska Public Broadcasting

Jason Chapnick’s (’61) son, Aaron and his wife with their two daughters.

commissioner. He is also a bishop in the Apostles’ Anglican Church and a monk in the Order of the Anam Cara. Santa advocates for millions of vulnerable children in dire straits throughout the United States, and promotes state and federal legislators to draft and pass legislation that improves child health, safety, and welfare. In his own words, “the greatest gift one can give is love, not presents.”

Jason Chapnick ’61 After being divorced for 20 years, Jason has remarried. He writes that he and his wife “have a wonderful marriage. Having a professional cook as a wife is quite nice. She is also the sweetest woman, who helped me deal with the death of both of my brothers, Barry ’61 and David ’59.” His older son, Aaron, has married, and now Jason has two wonderful granddaughters, Charlotte Perle and Harper Mae (pictured). Jason’s younger son, Devin, has moved to Colorado. Jason loves visiting him but very much enjoys the Florida sun that has warmed him since he started law school in 1971. He also has co-constructed three crossword puzzles that have been published in the LA Times. Jason hopes all of the Rectory Alumni from his era are well; he did return for the 50th reunion in 2011 and was the sole representative of his class.

alumni

Michael Stowe ’69

Timothy Doering ’73

Michael Dubin ’78

Hugh Whipple ’68

1970s

Daniel Shea ’77

Hugh is “gamefully retired.” He engages in some charity work at his home and winter addresses.

Robert Moran ’69 Bob is the offensive coordinator at Independence Community College in Independence, KS. He has two grandchildren.

Michael Stowe ’69 Mike is very active in amateur radio. He is the president of Martin County Amateur Radio Association, as well as the public information officer (Martin County) for the American Radio Relay League.

Richard “Mac” Jackson ’72 Richard is a ski instructor and ski school staff trainer for Sugarbush Resort and Mad River Glen Ski Area. He is also an examiner for Professional Ski Instructors of AmericaEastern Division. In the summer, Richard is the self-employed owner of Mac’s Mowing, LLC.

Timothy Doering ’73 Timothy has been a captain for Republic Airlines since 2002. His wife, Chris, works for a patent law firm in Charlotte, NC. They live just south over the border in SC near Ft. Mill on Lake Wylie, along with their rescue border collie, Hope, and Lucy, their rescue cat. He would love to hear from any of his old classmates!

Dan moved to Florida in 2016 and is loving the weather!

Michael Dubin ’78 Mike lives on Cape Cod with his wife, Masami. He works from home as a web content manager/developer (contractor) for IBM. He is still doing a lot of illustration, mostly digital these days. His son, Sam, is working for Boeing, and his daughter, Olivia, is finishing her sophomore year at Penn State Erie. Mike is doing a lot of work for the USCG and volunteers with Cape Cod area High School Key Clubs. He thinks of Rectory often and converses with many past classmates online.

alumni update: Andrew “drew” jordan ’84 In Drew’s own words: “It is hard to believe that it has been 30+ years since I graduated!”

After leaving Rectory, he returned home to the Philadelphia area to complete high school. His college years were spent in New Orleans attending the Tulane University Business School with a follow-up Masters in Management from Troy State University in Alabama. Following his studies, Drew became a United States Naval Aviator, flying missions throughout the Middle East and Asia for nine years. After separating from the military, he started flying for Southwest Airlines domestically. Drew has been with Southwest for 18 years and is currently a captain based out of Las Vegas, NV. His wife, Lucy, is a hydro-geologist working for the state of Utah, and they live in Salt Lake City.

They enjoy easy access to the backcountry and a multitude of outdoor activities. They volunteer much of their free time to the younger generations. Drew focuses on providing opportunities for youth to experience the outdoors through mountain biking, and Lucy focuses on promoting opportunities for young women in the field of geosciences.

Drew says, “If you are out in the Salt Lake City or Las Vegas area, please feel free to look us up. We love to showcase the outdoor opportunities which surround us!”

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alumni

in Ireland for the past ten years. Lisa has just started at Rectory as the Assistant Director of Communications.

W. Rod Gerdsen ’86

Peter Berk ’80

1980s Peter Berk ’80 Peter currently lives in New York City with his wife and daughter and works in the real estate finance field with a hospitality focus.

He would be interested in getting together with any alumni who also live in the city.

Nathan Karnes ’80 Nathan is in his second year on the State Central Committee of the Connecticut Democratic Party and recently finished his second year as secretary of his State Employees Union. He still lives in Windsor, and in February, he and his wife, Toni Karnes, welcomed “the beautiful smile of Khloe,” their fourth grandchild.

Lisa Walsh ’84 Lisa and her daughter, Sophia, have recently moved back to Woodstock, CT after living

Rod still teaches biology and marine biology at Blair Academy in New Jersey and has been happy to see all the Rectory alumni that pass through his classes, like Shawn Kang ’12, Taylor Hunt ’12, and Woo Sik Kim ’13. Rod says, “They are always amazed that we shared the same teachers, like Mr. Seaward and Mr. Washburn…just goes to show you the epic longevity of these legends!”

1990s Hunter Spence ’92 For the last 12 years, Hunter has been managing Longleaf Plantation in Baker County, Georgia. It is a 4,000-acre property in southwest Georgia that focuses on quail management. It is privately owned and used to hunt wild quail, dove, deer, and turkey.

They also are very involved in taking old agricultural fields and converting them back into stands of longleaf pine. Over the last 20 years of his career, Hunter has met and become friends with a lot of interesting people. It always takes them by surprise when he tells them about his time at boarding school. In Hunter’s own words, “It is not exactly what they envision when we are quail hunting off of a mule drawn wagon, in what

seems like the middle of nowhere.” Hunter is married and has 3 sons: Hunter (9), Wyatt (7), and Beau (5). He thinks about his time at Rectory often and it is filled with fond memories of great experiences and teachers.

Charles von Stade ’94 Chuck graduated from Montana State University in December with his second bachelor’s degree, this one in Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET). He also has started a new engineering position with SkyTrac in Salt Lake City. His new position involves engineering the final design of chairlift installations for the various resort locations and coordinating the installation of the final lift systems. Chuck also assists the design engineer in implementing new designs by developing computer models used for FEA testing and manufacturing.

David Radway ’99 David has been working for the United States Postal Service for four years. He coaches his children in softball and baseball.

Adam Friedman ’99 Adam is a corrections officer for Otsego County Sheriff in Cooperstown, NY. He enjoys the freedom of owning his own house free and clear, and makes and sells hay on his family farm. Adam plays on two billiards leagues and enjoys trivia when out with

Rectory Alums working on campus. Left to right: Lisa Walsh ‘84, John Seaward ‘02, Alex Wiegel ‘05, Hannah Smith ’08, and Paul Gray ’09

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friends on nights off. He loves shooting guns, having bonfires, and catching and eating fish from his pond.

2000s John Seaward ’02 John returned to Rectory School in 2010 as a math teacher, tutor, coach, and dorm parent.

A year later, John was appointed to the position of Associate Director of Admissions and took over as Director of Enrollment in 2014. During his time at Rectory, John has served as an advisor and has coached soccer, basketball, and tennis.

Alex Wiegel ’05 Alex returned to Rectory School in 2015 as Technology Systems Administrator, a dorm parent in Upper Memorial, and Head Fencing Coach. He attended Rectory from grades 7–9 and was a proctor on Hamilton North during his time as a student.

she was one of the first students ever to attend the CARe program and was among the first female boarders to attend Summer@Rectory.

When Hannah is not busy with work, she loves to dance and hang out with her fiancé and their two puppies.

Paul Gray ’09 Hannah Smith ’08 Hannah returned to Rectory School during the spring of 2017 and has already immersed herself back into the community as a technical specialist for the technology office, a dorm parent, and an assistant coach for track and field. During her time at Rectory,

alumni profile: Meghan Healy ’04

Paul returned to Rectory School last summer as Admissions Associate, dorm parent, and three-season coach. Following his graduation from Rectory, he attended the Millbrook School and Wheaton College, where he graduated with a degree in political science with a minor in European history.

Submitted by Ruth Healy

Mother and Daughter Share a Passion for Literature and Languages I recently returned to the Northeast Corner from a visit to Scotland with my husband Mike to celebrate a milestone. On June 20, our daughter Meghan ’04 graduated from the University of St. Andrews with a PhD in English.

Needless to say, I am proud of her accomplishments. As she walked across the stage to be awarded her degree, I remembered the spunky fifth grader at Rectory who was one of 20 girls at a boys’ junior boarding school; the seventh grader in my English class who demonstrated a passion for literature and a keen eye for editing. In our free time, Meghan and I could be found at Faraway, sitting on the sofa, reading books and choosing ones to add to Rectory’s English curriculum or watching movies by Victorian authors, such as Elizabeth Gaskell’s Wives and Daughters and North and South, while devouring bags of Jelly Belly jelly beans.

ly.

Meghan and Mike Hea pus for cam on nt sta n a con The Healy family has bee Leader; m Tea ent artm lish Dep 22 years. Ruth is the Eng tics c Director and mathema Mike is Rectory’s Athleti ly ‘02 Hea l Pau and ‘00 ly n Hea faculty; and children Joh are also alumni!

Left to right: Ruth,

Mothers and daughters. Who follows in whose footsteps? Thirty-one years after I graduated from Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, MA with a degree in French and Portuguese, Meghan graduated from the same college with a degree in English, French, and Portuguese. My educational endeavors did not stop there; I took courses throughout my career to enhance my teaching and departmental responsibilities at Rectory. However, Meghan’s path was more direct: She earned a full scholarship to attend the University of St. Andrews for a Master’s in Romantic and Victorian Studies and a PhD in Victorian literature. The title of her thesis is “Masculinity and Manliness in the Work of Elizabeth Gaskell.”

While working on her PhD abroad, Meghan encouraged me to return to school to pursue my love of writing; I enrolled in a three-year distance learning program at the University of Edinburgh, from which I will graduate with an MSc in Creative Writing in November. This time, I followed in my daughter’s footsteps.

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alumni

Jillianne Perry Altom ’09 on her wedding day.

Jackson Larrabee ’11, left, and his brother Alexander ’13

Maia Lineberry ’14

Past faculty, Claudia and Vinny Ricci, celebrating their 50th anniversary.

Jillianne Altom (Perry) ’09

Shailyn Lineberry ’13

Past Faculty

Jillianne was married in November 2016 and went back to college to get a family and consumer science degree. She still lives in Arkansas, and instead of baking, she is now working at a behavioral hospital helping children of all ages learn social and coping skills to deal with everyday life. Jillianne works with many troubled girls, and says, “I try to help them see through the dark and realize there are things in life that are worth getting better for.”

A night out at Dodd Stadium with the Summer@Rectory students was made even better after the group ran into Shai Lineberry.

Having just graduated from Deerfield Academy, Shai is now getting ready to attend University of Colorado at Denver, where she plans to major in international business with a minor in Spanish. Shai also shared that Rectory and Deerfield classmate Gia Kim ’13 will be attending Columbia University, where Jason Wang ’13 is also enrolling.

Claudia Ricci, retired teacher and Director of Communications, and Vinny Ricci, retired Director of Admissions, spent a romantic four days from Amelia Island, FL to Charleston, SC for their 50th anniversary in June. In August, their two daughters and their families will spend a week with them at New Smyrna Beach, FL. The Riccis thank God for their lives together and for the 13 years they spent at Rectory!

2010s

Sarah Pasqualetti ’14

Sunghyun (Justin) Kim ’10 Justin graduated from Case Western Reserve University with a Bachelor’s degree in biology, and will be attending their School of Dental Medicine this fall.

Jackson Larrabee ’11 Jackson is currently enrolled at Maine Maritime Academy, finishing his junior year. His brother Alexander ’13 is a freshman at MMA with him.

His summer plans are to board the school ship, State of Maine, and work as an administrative intern preparing ship and foreign port documents. He will be working closely with Janet Acker, sister of former Rectory teacher, coach, and friend Tom Washburn. In his own words Jackson wrote, “Very exciting and fruitful future ahead!”

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Sarah is currently finishing up high school as the FFA chapter treasurer and senior class treasurer with high honors. She is the salutatorian of Killingly (CT) High School’s senior class of 2017. Sarah plans on attending the University of Connecticut and majoring in molecular and cell biology.

In Memoriam Charles H. Wellington ’61 July 18, 1947–Feb. 2, 2017

Ashley Lynn Ryba ’08 April 24, 1992 – March 29, 2017

Minot Allen Frye ’71 1955 – 2017

Maia Lineberry ’14 Following a summer of attending the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, Maia will be completing an internship at the Curie Institute in Paris in June, studying neuronal circuit development. In July, she spent time at Babson College for the National Youth Leadership Forum medicine program. She has also taken advantage of opportunities at St. George’s by 3D printing a prosthetic hand this winter. Maia is very excited about her last year at St. George’s.

Calling all Alumni!

Please contact us if you would like to be included in an upcoming issue of The Rectory News or on social media.

We’d love to hear from you!

Amy Lusa, Alumni Relations & Special Events Coordinator amy.lusa@rectoryschool.org

alumni

0th

1

on reuni

2008

Save the date for Alumni Reunion Weekend saturday, April 28, 2018 Mark your calendars!

Alumni Reunion Weekend will be here before we know it! Join us to reminisce and reconnect with friends and faculty.

h

25ntion

reu

1993

welcome back!

All Rectory alumni are invited back to campus, with special celebrations for the following reunion years:

50th

reunion

1968

50th Reunion: 1968 25th Reunion: 1993 10th Reunion: 2008

The Rectory News | summer 2017

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Rectory School turns 100 in 2020!

Countdown to the Centennial has begun What better time is there than a celebration to connect with friends, to share memories of Rectory, and to show school pride? The journey to the Centennial became official when, at its winter meeting, the Rectory Board of Trustees approved the formation of a steering committee, which is to make recommendations and preliminary plans for Rectory School’s 100th Anniversary Celebration to be held in the 2020–2021 academic year. Headmaster Fred Williams identified 10 people from among trustees, friends, faculty, staff, and alumni to serve on the Centennial Steering Committee and to get the project “off the ground.”

strengthen existing ties, or reengage if you have been out of touch with the school.”

After the committee’s initial meeting, a member mused that Rectory’s Centennial Initiative will be a unique opportunity “to honor the school’s history, showcase its current programs, and envision its future of educational excellence. It will be a time to celebrate relationships,

Let’s celebrate, remember, and be inspired for the next 100 years!

In anticipation of the upcoming Centennial, an Archives Committee was formed last year to collect memories and artifacts that will bring alive Rectory’s story. Its members invite you to go on the Centennial Countdown journey by traveling back in time, finding memorabilia, and donating it to Rectory. However readers want to connect, we are grateful to hear from them.

1924

Don’t throw it out!

Our Centennial will soon be here—send us your stories! We would love it if you would take a moment to connect back to Rectory. Help us revive memories and shed light on aspects of Rectory’s history by donating your memorabilia such as photographs, papers, scrapbooks, books, clothing, ephemera, yearbooks, newsletters, trophies, and other materials to the School’s Archives. We even collect digital files.

Get in touch at archives@rectoryschool.org.

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The Rectory News | summer 2017

from our instgram feed:

On the last day of Summer@Rectory we had a family reunion when Mary Nanna ’13 and Jessica Nanna ’15 arrived with their mum to pick up their younger sister Michelle. Michelle went to our summer program and will be attending Rectory in September. They are seen here with headmaster, Mr. Williams. #RectorySchool #RectoryAlumni #SummerAtRectory #RectoryStudents

instagram.com/rectory_school_ct

from our facebook feed:

facebook.com/RectorySchool facebook.com/RectoryAlumniPage

Hey Rectory School Class of 2008, did you know your 10-year reunion is coming up this year?

Alumni Day will be Saturday, April 28, 2018—how many of you will we see back on campus to celebrate?

Tag your fellow #RectoryAlumni in your class photo!

from our linked in feed:

[Excerpted from our profile article on Erin Bradley] ....By mixing with students in the more relaxed setting of the the dorm, Ms. Bradley feels it gives her another way to develop a relationship with them. She finds that, especially for students who may initially struggle in her classes, this deeper relationship provides her with additional insight into their strengths and weaknesses, which consequently helps her provide more individualized instruction in the classroom.

linkedin.com/company/the-rectory-school

from our twitter feed:

“I remember being

a young child and hanging on that (bell) rope going up and down. Haha! I will miss the old logo but the new one, I think my parents John R. (Skip) Jackman and Alice (Rusty) Jackman would agree, represents the school well.

”

chris Jackman Davis #RectoryAlumni

“We love hearing

from our Alumni– this brought back great memories!

Thank you, Chris.

”

#RectoryAlumni

@RectorySchoolCT @FredWilliams64

See all our feeds in one spot! Rectory’s Social media mash-up: www.rectoryschool.org/social

The Rectory News | summer 2017

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nonprofit

Rectory School P.O. Box 68 528 Pomfret Street Pomfret, Connecticut 06258

us postage

paid permit #130 springfield, ma

“A person’s a person, no matter how small” This was not only the moral of this year’s spring musical, Seussical Jr. but it also sums up the process that brought the Rectory School community such a stellar performance! From the smallest first grader to the large group of graduating ninth graders, there was a part for everyone in this year’s production.

Over 50 students brought Seussical Jr. to life—students were involved not only on the stage, but also managing the lights or the sound, working on the backstage crew, and helping to design the set, costumes, props, and posters. The Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who must protect the tiny people of Whoville from a world of naysayers and dangers. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, and trial,Rectory ultimately, the |powers of2017 friendship, loyalty, family, and community are challenged and emerge triumphant!

News summer 46 a The