The Rectory News | Fall 2018

The Rectory News THE MAGAZINE OF RECTORY SCHOOL, POMFRET, CONNECTICUT | FALL 2018

rectory alumni reaching new heights

A Foundation for Life In Memory of Thelma R. Barker Commencement 2018

2018–2019 Board of Trustees James E. Bell III ’71, P’17 Blair F. Bigelow ’52 Lisa T. Canter, M.D. P’19 Sheila J. Clancy P’20 Daniel J. DeNuccio P’07, P’08, P’10 Henry B. Eaton ’66 Nathan Follansbee George D. Groom P’78 Laurence N. Hale II P’16, P’19, P’21 Nathaniel P. Hamilton, Jr. ’98 James H. Leach ’76 Kevin T. Lewis P’22 William P. Loftus III P’13 William T. Loos ’78, P’09, P’23, P’24 Lloyd W. Montgomery P’19 Jo Ann Morelli Suriano P’14, P’15, P’17 Patricia Mulcahy P’14 Kathleen R. Naumann P’11 Natasha Harvey Swann ’84 Kevin M. Tubridy ’60 Chen-Wei (Michael) Wang P’20, P’20 Johnny L. L. Wells ’03 Van H. Wilshire ’86 Elizabeth H. Zimmermann ’84, P’19 Frederick W. Williams, Ex Officio 2018–2019 Board of visitors Denise Archambault Anthony Bannister P’25 Kimberly Bergendahl P’17, P’20 Paula and James Carafotes P’10, P’12, P’17 Allen Chatterton ’75 and Bintou Chatterton Sylvia and Garfield Danenhower P’90 John Evans P’16 LaRita and Edwin Gordon P’13 Wendy and Earl Gurevitch P’18 Michael Harpe P’18 Ethan Jamron ’95 Emily and Charles Kilvert P’16 Hill Lappen ’93 Victoria Martin Judith Mitchell P’08 Helenka and Robert Nolan P’19 Lindsay Paul P’17 Robert Perkin ’62 S. Dunham Rowley ’60 and Louise Witherite Alfred Slanetz P’15, P’15 Andronica Stanley-Wheelock P’15 Charles Tannenbaum ’98 RJ Tolson ’08 E. John White G’18, G’22 John H. White ’73 Benjamin Williams 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 THE MAGAZINE OF RECTORY SCHOOL, POMFRET, CONNECTICUT | FALL 2018

rectory alumni reaching new heights

A Foundation for Life In Memory of Thelma R. Barker Commencement 2018

ON THE COVER: Alden Mills ‘84 climbed Denali, the tallest mountain in North America at 20,310 feet. Hiking Denali represented a series of firsts for him—from the tallest mountain to the most days spent on a mountain, to the weight carried.

Alden completed the climb on June 8, 2018.

To read about the experience, go to his blog: alden-mills.com/news-and-views

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

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2017

PRINTING: 101 Business Solutions EDITOR: Lisa Walsh ’84 ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Dawn Chmura PHOTOGRAPHY: Holly Hu, Alden Mills, Chip Riegel,

Mary Lou Seaward, Lisa Walsh ’84, STUDIOLOT6 (by AJ Woongsun An) FRONT COVER: Supplied by Alden Mills ’84 BACK COVER: Lisa Walsh ’84

02 a foundation for life 04

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: A CRUCIAL FIRST STEP IN BUILDING THE FOUNDATION

06

RECTORY REMINISCING: ALDEN MILLS ’84 & MIN JAE YOO ’09 TELL THEIR STORIES

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A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE: RECTORY CHANGED MY DAUGHTER’S LIFE

12 commencement 2018 Congratulations to the members of Rectory School’s Class of 2018.

16 thelma r. Barker: in appreciative memory RECTORY SOCIAL FEED: www.rectoryschool.org/social

We pay tribute to the woman who dedicated four decades of her life to Rectory students.

linkedin.com/company/ the-rectory-school

facebook.com/RectorySchool

Departments instagram.com/rectory_school_ct

twitter.com/RectorySchoolCT

18 around Campus

24 Alumni events

20 Athletics

26 Alumni Notes

Academic skills are important to be successful in secondary school. Academic skills combined with confidence prepares our students for life.

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

A FOUNDATION FOR LIFE

A Foundation For Life...

Our approach at Rectory is to ensure that all students are understood, challenged, and encouraged—not just academically and socially, but personally. As a result, we witness incredible outcomes. Academic skills are important to be successful in secondary school. Academic skills combined with confidence prepares our students for life.

This confidence is hard won. It comes from overcoming challenges, from working through tough issues, and from true growth. It comes from feedback from adults who are paying attention and who have the best interest of students in mind.

Our students are also confident because they have been exposed to the world.

Our intentional cultural diversity provides students with an opportunity to experience being a global citizen at a very young age. Our students understand and respect that while we all may have differences, our respect for one another defines us as a community.

Alumni often reflect upon the impact Rectory made on them, often in ways they couldn’t even imagine when they were students. That’s why Rectory alumni so often return to campus whether to say hello to a favorite teacher, to make a gift, or even to become a member of the faculty. The impact of the Rectory experience is profound, so profound, it lasts a lifetime.

We encourage you to read the articles in this issue of The Rectory News to see the many ways how…

At Rectory we change lives.

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Elementary School: A Crucial First Step in building the Foundation

by Maria Carpenter, Director of Elementary

In September of 2004, kindergarteners experienced the joy and wonder of learning on the campus of Rectory School. The completion of our beautiful new dining hall created the opportunity to begin a full-day kindergarten on the first floor of the Dining Dormitory. Thus started the beginning of the elementary division at Rectory School.

With anticipation and excitement, we all gathered together that Sunday

Five families embraced the new venture to educate elementary children,

a few inches taller than the last time they were all together, they quickly

including four families from our early childhood program and one local

fell into pace with one another, just as they did those many years

family from the community who was looking for the option of a full-day

before. Just like then, they are all on unique journeys; four are entering

kindergarten program. The classroom space offered endless possibilities

their junior year of college, at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy,

as children could build intricate block buildings, paint masterpieces with

Franciscan, Yale, and Franklin Pierce, the other is taking time to reflect

tempera paint on an easel, or gather around a standing table to have

and get their health back on track.

afternoon in June to reconnect and share another experience together.

Hugs were passed around along with a healthy dose of smiles and giggles, and the students decided that instead of taking the picture by the front of the new Elementary School building, they wanted to walk out to the same spot where we took the original photo. To see the students walking around campus again was a beautiful thing. Although

conversations and assemble puzzles. I fondly remember each child who has walked through the doors of Rectory’s Elementary School, but that

We reminisced about the magic that we created together as we

first group of five and their families will always hold a special place in

accepted learning challenges and supported each other to seek

my heart. On that very first day of school, we walked through campus

answers about the world around us.

with nets and buckets to frolic in the field alongside the maintenance building, and we took a picture along the entry of the woods. That picture still sits in a sparkly silver frame on my desk.

Melissa said that she remembers the smaller moments, and there were many:

Sitting around the lunch table in the classroom, just the five of us, In June of 2018, just as the Rectory school year was winding down,

waiting for Max to finish his food. Taking pictures of the tree outside

one of those students came by to volunteer her time to sort classroom

the classroom while making silly faces, and setting up our town of

books for us and noticed the photograph. “Someday,” she dreamed,

blocks and boxes after we read our favorite story, Roxaboxen by Alice

“we are going to get together again, and recreate that picture.” What

McLerran…only we called our town Blocksaboxen!

a lovely day that will be, I thought, as we talked about the last time we

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had seen some of the friends in the photograph. Days passed, and one

She remembers celebrating the 100th day of the school year when

afternoon I received the following text: “Hi, Maria! So all five of us are

everyone decided to bring in one hundred pennies and lollipops. But

free next Sunday to take that picture! We got it all figured out today.”

she wanted to bring in one hundred stuffed animals, and so she did!

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

A FOUNDATION FOR LIFE

the first rectory school kindergarten class.

then

now

Memories also included a much-loved word wall that we filled with all

As we document the opportunity to expose them to the content areas

of their favorite words, as well as a trip to the Vanilla Bean Cafe where

of literacy, math, science, social studies, and the arts, it’s important to

they all got lemon sorbet in real lemons. Melissa ended her thoughts by

remember that it is the small moments where students feel valued and

sharing how much she always loved that year and how at the end of

appreciated that build the strongest foundations on their life journey.

each day, she never wanted to go back home.

As our first kindergarten students confirm by their detailed recollections Toni also shared her memories:

from their time at Rectory, when we intentionally and transparently

Most people I talk to about kindergarten can barely remember what it

weave social learning into the academic explorations in our classrooms,

was like or who was in their class. My experience was different. I was in

we create memories that will last a lifetime!

a group of only five kids, four girls and one boy. I remember how close and happy we all were and to this day (now in college) we still keep in touch. I look back and realize how privileged I was to go to a school like Rectory. I have learned in college and by working at a daycare that the first few years of life are critical in the development of a child, physically and mentally. Rectory recognizes this importance and honestly couldn’t have done a better job. I truly hope my future kids have the same fulfilling experience and opportunity that I did. Today, I study nursing at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Boston.

I can’t help but owe a part of my success to the amazing job Maria and Rectory School did in helping me form a basis for my learning. I had a great childhood, and I thank Rectory for everything. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to attend this school and become a part of the Rectory family to do so!

I can’t put into words the joy and peace that I felt as I watched these little children blossom into confident, kind, and honest young adults. As we ended our time together back at the Vanilla Bean Cafe, surrounded by our sweet memories, I knew that each moment we are given to

At Rectory, we continue to focus on weaving current brain-based research into our academic day. It is interesting to note that USC researcher Mary Helen ImmordinoYang discovered that “One of the most intriguing findings from neuroimaging was that the brain networks that control breathing, heart rate and other essential bodily functions are also activated when a person admires or empathizes with someone else.” Additionally, during our 2018 Faculty Orientation, we learned from teacherresearcher Kathleen Kryza, that there is a clear link between emotions and learning.

“Emotions are handled by the brain’s prefrontal cortex and the same area is used for our memories.”

spend with children to educate and challenge them is a valuable gift.

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2017

“My suspicion is you, like me, will come to realize that you learned more than you originally give Rectory credit for; that the seeds of your success were actually planted (and fertilized) in places like study hall or on the sports field. Thank you rectory and all the teachers who gave me the courage to believe in myself!�

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THE RECTORY NEWS | WINTER 2018

A FOUNDATION FOR LIFE

Alden Mills ’84 Reflects on his Years at Rectory and how they shaped his future success Recently I returned to Rectory after a 35-plus year hiatus with the intention of sharing a few life lessons with the older students. As I prepared for the speech during a walk around the Rectory campus, I found myself flooded with memories from my years as a sixth, seventh, and eighth grader...and those memories made me realize that many of the life lessons I intended to share with the students were actually first taught to me at Rectory. Most of my lessons were learned either in study hall or while participating in a sport. Of course, I’m not discounting the lessons I learned in the classroom, they were helpful, too. But learning to deal with the boredom I felt in study hall, or the rejection (and eventual success) I encountered on the playing fields of Rectory seemed to be the most memorable for me.

After all, who can forget a Mr. Urban-monitored study hall where time seemed to stand still under his watchful eye. It was there I learned how to be productive and to focus on doing work versus watching the clock.

I’ll be the first to admit that sitting still and focusing on a single subject for more than a few minutes was a challenge for me. Those study hall days helped me more than I could have ever imagined years later while underway in USS James K. Polk (a ballistic nuclear submarine) conducting Navy SEAL classified combat mini-submersible operations in far-off foreign waters. At one point my team and I were underwater for 33 days, with only a few missions. During those days, dealing with the boredom became our front-sight focus. Thank you, Mr. Urban, Mr. Williamson, Mr. Horvath, Mr. Seaward, and several others who took their dutiful turns teaching us how to focus, how to make the most of our time, and of course, how to deal with boredom! As a side note, it was during those long days and nights aboard the “Mighty Jimmy K” that I started sketching out inventions (to deal with the boredom) and one of those inventions years later would become the “Perfect Pushup.”

Then, there are those lessons learned on the Rectory “battlefields.” Okay, maybe that’s a bit of an extreme description, but for this uncoordinated, two-left-footed kid, trying out for any sport during my Rectory years felt like a battle! Of course, the conflict was first and foremost within my head. I was a big kid for my age but slow and terrible with any sport dealing with a ball or puck. Before arriving at Rectory, my size on the public school playgrounds made up for any athletic skills I lacked, but at Rectory size didn’t matter, performance did. I can still remember my first soccer tryout, watching this kid from Mexico dribble a ball from his feet to his knees to his head. I could barely kick a ball straight and here’s this kid doing things with a ball I didn’t even know were possible!

I became the perennial JV soccer player three years in a row, even scored a goal against my own team. As humiliating as it was at the time, I can still remember the Rectory coaches building me up while I was in the middle of breaking myself down. However, the agonies of my athletic struggles weren’t reserved just for the sport of soccer. There was my season as a

hockey manager. My time as a lacrosse goalie (volunteering because no one else wanted to play goalie—the first sport where I lost a game by 20 goals!). And my stint as a wrestler with my single win (a triumph!) against the American School for the Deaf (my opponent thought the period was over and stopped wrestling long enough for me to score the winning points). Each experience comes with its own story, some of which I shared with the students, and guess what? They could relate! It turns out a handful in the audience had also scored against their own team in soccer or had experienced being a human sieve as a lacrosse goalie too!

But the point of sharing these struggles—and they were serious struggles for me at that age, especially with my asthma—was these were some of the greatest gifts Rectory gave me. Coaches who kept cheering me on when I wasn’t rooting for myself. They believed in me way before I did. And that confidence and courage built up over time to propel me to try another sport called crew (rowing) at Kent School.

I applied the same mindset to rowing that I learned while attempting each new sport at Rectory. I gave it my all; I worked as hard as I possibly could until a coach would come along and say “I think you can give more.” Because that’s what Rectory coaches did for me, they pushed me beyond what I thought was possible; they enabled me to raise the bar of my personal limitations and strive for more—that became the greatest lesson I learned at Rectory. That mindset of going “all in all the time” is what I brought to rowing at Kent and it paid off: my crews won the New England Championships two years in a row and helped me gain admission to the US Naval Academy where I went on to stroke and captain both the freshman and varsity crews. The courage to try led me to try out for the Olympic team and the SEAL Team. Years later I would use that same courage learned and instilled from Rectory at building businesses and a family of my own (we have four boys— courage is definitely a requirement here!).

If any of you (alums) haven’t returned to Rectory in awhile, I encourage you to do so and if you feel so compelled, give a talk to the current students; trust me they’ll relate with your stories! And when you do, walk the campus first, close your eyes and strap on the “way back machine,” and remember your moments at Rectory and what you really learned from your teachers, coaches, and dorm parents. about alden: As an Olympic Festival rower, Alden went on to become a standout at the US Naval Academy, then a Navy SEAL platoon commander (three times), then an entrepreneur. He founded and grew Perfect Fitness from zero to $63m in sales, becoming the fastest growing consumer company in America (per INC. Magazine, 2009). Alden then continued to lead the Perfect Fitness team and grow the company even further after its acquisition by the private equity firm, Implus. Alden has created over 40 patents in the consumer sector. He is the acclaimed author of Be Unstoppable: The Eight Essential Actions to Succeed at Anything and the pending book, Build Unstoppable Teams.

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

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a q&A with: min jae yoo Min Jae Yoo ’09 tried out for Team Korea in 2013 when the Asia Pacific Lacrosse Championship (ASPAC), a biannual international competition, was being held in Beijing, China.

He made the team along with his brother Clint and plays as a long stick midfielder for the team.

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THE RECTORY NEWS | WINTER 2018

PHOTO: STUDIOLOT6 (by AJ Woongsun An)

A FOUNDATION FOR LIFE

Lisa Walsh ’84, Associate Director of Communications, spoke to Min Jae Yoo ’09 about how Rectory helped form his future in lacrosse.

q.

q.

Tell me about your introduction to lacrosse? Who was your coach?

When did you get back into lacrosse after andover?

a.

a.

I chose baseball my first spring term at Rectory (in 6th grade). While I enjoyed it, I realized I am more fit and prefer a more dynamic contact sport. I debated between participating in tennis or lacrosse in the spring of my 7th-grade year. I eventually chose lacrosse for two main reasons.

First, it was a brand new sport for me (an adventure); and second, Mr. <Braden> Long, who taught me geology, was coaching the JV team. I can confidently say that the success I’ve found in my lacrosse career is because I had Mr. Long as my first coach of the sport.

q.

How did your years at Rectory pave the way for your current success? What aspects of the School’s culture helped build the foundation of your success today?

a.

Excelling at a new sport and rising to one of the top talents on the boys’ JV lacrosse team helped build my self-confidence, which plays a critical role in becoming successful as an athlete and in all aspects of life. However, what really paved the way for my current success was the coaching. As one of the top talents on the team, I desperately wanted

I had played on a club team—CLU Lacrosse—in Korea, participating in the summer league games when I would come back to Korea for summer vacation. Though I did stop playing lacrosse concurrently due to shoulder issues, the captain of CLU Lacrosse coincidentally was the captain of the Korea Men’s National Lacrosse team AND was a senior at the University of Pennsylvania when I attended as a freshman. We naturally bonded again, and he had convinced me to come back to lacrosse—with a recommendation to try out for Team Korea.

q.

What would you like to tell current students at Rectory?

a.

I could never have imagined I would one day join a NCAA Division 1 lacrosse program, not to mention having the honor of representing my home country in international competitions by playing and being part of a national team. It all began with finding the courage to try a new sport and picking up a lacrosse stick at Rectory. For current lacrosse players, keep it up regardless of good or bad days. For non-lacrosse players at Rectory, you are missing out!

to be (and could have been) on the first line of midfielders. Mr. Long, though, kept me on the second line to spread and balance out talent throughout the lines. I vividly remember how he explicitly, yet kindly, explained his rationale to me in person. So at the age of 13, I learned the significance of being humble and the importance of sacrifice for the benefit of the entire team, a lesson that has served me in all aspects of my life, including work, family, and community.

q.

Where did you go after Rectory? Did you find success there with lacrosse and other sports?

a.

I went on to Phillips Academy in Andover, MA after Rectory. I participated in soccer, wrestling, and lacrosse. My main sport at Andover was wrestling, but I dislocated my shoulder several times and had to have surgery. Due to my shoulder issues, I didn’t participate in

Braden Long, who taught and coached Min Jae when he was a student at Rectory, reflects on their time together: Min Jae was a student in my seventh-grade earth science class. He was an exemplary student who had no score less than 100 all year long!

Because of the relationship we had developed in class, Min Jae decided to join my JV lacrosse team in the spring term. Our team that year was solid, and Min Jae was our best face-off mid-fielder but was on the second line. He did not complain about his role on the second line but took it in stride, and by the end of the season, he was our leading scorer due to his great athletic ability. By his ninth-grade year, Min Jae was a leader of the school, but more importantly, he was a great friend to me as he would come to Dining Dorm on the weekends when I was on duty, and we would have hour-long conversations about life. I am so proud of Min Jae’s accomplishments. He is a perfect example of what a role model should be. I look forward to seeing his continued success and hope to meet him again one day.

lacrosse in my final seasons at Andover.

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A FOUNDATION FOR LIFE

Rectory changed my daughter’s life

by Elizabeth Herdic P’21 Attending Rectory has been a life-changing experience for our daughter Addisyn and, as a result, our whole family. Her education has been an incredibly positive and growth-stimulating experience. Instead of needing to conform to a specific set of universal standards, she has been encouraged, supported, and nourished through a creative, optimistic, and challenging atmosphere to meet her own potential. Through that mindset, she has overcome the limitations she viewed as constraints to obtaining grade-level success.

Rectory maintains small classes, where students are engaged,

There are many assets that a dyslexic student brings to academics,

celebrated, and genuinely known for who they are. Teachers

including a strong work ethic and creativity. Students at Rectory

understand students’ strengths and weaknesses and help them

are encouraged to explore projects and infuse their own culture,

maximize their potential in each academic subject. Every one

strengths, and abilities into their work. In her previous school,

of Addisyn’s teachers has made themselves available to us as

Addisyn always felt isolated and ashamed because she was

parents, and to our daughter, teaching her that advocating for

constantly pulled from the traditional classroom, flagging her

herself falls on receptive and willing ears. As a participant in

as a student who couldn’t keep up with the rest of the class. By

Rectory’s Individualized Instruction Program (IIP), she was perfectly

allowing her to illuminate her own path, Rectory has shined a

matched with a tutor with extensive knowledge about Dyslexia

light on Addisyn’s potential, which was previously hidden by set

and Dysgraphia. Her tutor has training and certification in the

standards and universal goals.

most researched, evidence-based method of instruction: Orton Gillingham. I think the most important and beneficial aspect

At Rectory each student’s needs are addressed: some are ahead,

of IIP at Rectory is that although there are general goals that

some are behind, some are working on special projects in their

guide her instruction, there is a sense of flexibility. If she finds

area of interest. So, it is normal and expected to see peers

herself struggling with a specific topic within a subject, she can

coming and going, and placed in different sections based on

benefit from individualized instruction from her tutor throughout

various factors. She no longer feels like the student who is below

her academic day. Her Dyslexia is a different way of learning,

everyone else. Addisyn now understands that everyone learns

understanding, and interpreting. It is not just a learning disability

differently, and everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Lifting

that affects reading and writing; it impacts every subject. For

that burden has freed her to explore her own interests in science,

Addisyn, having teachers and tutors who understand that she

creative writing, art, and reading. Her self-esteem has been

needs support throughout her curriculum is invaluable. Her teachers

healed. She now knows that she can meet any goal she sets for

are aware of her needs, and they work with her tutor as a team to

herself. She knows what she needs to do to achieve her goals

engage her and challenge her appropriately in each of her classes.

because she has learned the strategies she needs to succeed.

Addisyn had incredible accomplishments last year, the first being that a story she wrote was selected and published in

“ By allowing her to illuminate her own path, Rectory has

RECstory (Rectory’s annual compilation of artwork, poetry, and short stories). She also received the Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Lewis Prize for Greatest Gains in Language skills. This recognition

shined a light on Addisyn’s

validated her hard work and improvements in an area that she

potential, which was previously

has long-struggled.

hidden by set standards and universal goals.”

Rectory also provides students with an advisor, which is a key component in teaching students like Addisyn organization techniques. An advisory relationship may seem like a small piece

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

A FOUNDATION FOR LIFE

“As parents, one of the most valuable aspects of Rectory is the relationship we have built with every one of her educators. Every teacher has set high standards and expectations for our daughter, but they are willing to put the time into working with her to meet those expectations.”

of a larger puzzle, but a student who can’t keep track of their

socialize, play sports together, watch musical performances,

books, doesn’t have a system to organize homework, and isn’t

and picnic together.

able to break down expectations will not be able to succeed in school or their future career. Addisyn needed a lot of support in

Rectory develops the whole person and stresses character

organizing her day, organizing her belongings and locker, and

development. The importance of honesty, responsibility, respect,

learning how to break down a project into achievable steps. These

and compassion are stressed on a daily basis, and Rectory

techniques and skills taught on a one-to-one scale offer specific

celebrates students who live by these principals. I appreciate the

attention to each student’s needs. Having someone at school help

social standard that students are held to through the Rectory

Addisyn develop her organizational skills took an incredible burden

Creed. Students have many discussions that relate to life and can

off of my husband and me because she became more independent

explore topics that are social struggles at this age through the

in her homework and projects.

guidance of their advisor and small social groups. Addisyn has had opportunities to read to and play with younger students,

As parents, one of the most valuable aspects of Rectory is the

promoting her caring soul, which is noticed and appreciated

relationship we have built with every one of her educators. Every

at Rectory. She has been involved in groups for community

teacher has set high standards and expectations for our daughter,

service and had opportunities to engage in projects that help the

but they are willing to put the time into working with her to

surrounding communities; most of which are student-driven.

meet those expectations. We had become so discouraged at her previous school because we felt the need to lower expectations

Teachers at Rectory also help students define their visions and take

for Addisyn to find success, instead of helping her find the tools

steps to help make them a reality. Addisyn worked as part of a

to achieve greatness. At Rectory, anytime we have an academic

team and explored her engineering side by building a boat out of

concern, we can directly discuss that concern with her teacher and

cardboard and duct tape. That boat was maneuvered across the

her tutor. Together, we develop a plan that can be immediately

Rectory pond and won the Rectory Regatta last spring! She was so

implemented; there is no need to wait weeks for a meeting or

proud of her creation and accomplishment and is already planning

wait for scores to show she is struggling. The faculty listens and

the boat she will engineer next year to defend her team’s title.

works with our family, reinforcing the confidence in our decision to send our child to Rectory.

Aside from the limitless academic success that students can achieve at Rectory, they also are exposed to a fantastic social environment. She has been enveloped by a diverse community with students from around the world, with a variety of customs and traditions. She has friends from all over the world that are teaching her different languages. She has opportunities to participate in different sports like fencing, tennis, and squash.

Students have access to a beautiful campus where they can

Rectory is more than just a school that will teach your child academic subjects. It provides a foundation for life, giving each student the freedom to see and appreciate who they are, and supports them individually to achieve immeasurable success, both academically and personally. For two years she has been a part of Rectory’s community, and we have seen her develop, grow, and build self-esteem to become the strong, caring, independent, educated person that we always knew she was.

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

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COMMENCEMENT 2018

Class of 2018 Poised To Be Extraordinary Excerpted from Fred Williams’ Welcome Speech at Rectory’s 97th graduation ceremony.

Our soon-to-be graduates have individually and collectively in their time on this campus shown remarkable growth, noteworthy talents, and have poised themselves for impressive years ahead. Our gathering today serves a two-fold purpose: to recognize our graduates’ accomplishments to date and as a coming-out party for these young people who are embracing, in the most wonderful of ways, who they are, where they want to go, and what they want to be. The future is sure to be a most interesting and evolving journey for you, Class of 2018, particularly given the times in which we are living.

You are a class filled with kindness as you tended to your younger brothers and sisters on the Rectory campus, and you supported those in need during the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, MELP service activities, and most recently “An Evening for Eric.” This last event rallied our campus and in the process assured a legacy at Rectory for our fallen friend.

You are a class that has talent, which has been on display across the campus. Last night our musicians played for the final time as Rectory students. Athletically, years from now a number in your class will be candidates for Rectory’s new Athletic Wall of Honor. Members of your class have led our teams to many victories, and you have done so with gutsy competitiveness. Our boys’ basketball team was among the best Rectory has seen, while our girls’ team fell one victory short of an undefeated season. Girls volleyball also finished with one loss, that loss against St. Paul’s School two states away—no one closer could beat us. And when they finally got on the field due to horrible early spring weather, the varsity baseball team helped Mr. Seaward celebrate his last season with a perfect record.

In the classroom, your hard work has led to strong academic performances. The Capstone Fair showcased your interests and your activism, and I urge you to keep your topic and charge in mind. As you did with your capstone project, if each of us picks one cause to be a part of and sees this cause through from interest to action, the challenges our world faces will become much more surmountable.

Futurists agree, graduates, that just as you sought out areas of interest in your capstone project, curiosity and initiative will prove vital in your years ahead. So, too, will empathy and the human interaction skills required in face-to-face sessions. While I don’t expect consensus agreement from you,

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graduates, you have all benefited from a Rectory tech policy that prevents you from being the part of your generation that one futurist describes as only able to “interact with a cell phone or laptop.”

Countless visitors to our Rectory campus comment on how polite our student body is. I compliment you, graduates, on engaging in conversation and in building meaningful relationships with peers and adults within our community. And I encourage you to continue being counter-cultural as you prioritize in-person communication and interactions. There is no harm in a dose of Fortnight, but there is no more joyful scene than the Seaward Pavilion during a First Friday celebration. In the classic sci-fi movie The Matrix, Neo can download in seconds the ability to speak a language or pilot an aircraft. You, graduates, will also need to develop your skills and understanding at a rapid rate. As you cannot currently plug-in to an alternate computer world like Neo, your learning will require intense self-motivation.

While a portion of this learning will take place in traditional classroom settings, as you enter your careers, the immediate need to develop a new skill or understanding will require in-the-moment, self-directed learning. Whether through your work with a tutor, your success in an online language class, or in any other academic setting at Rectory, your brains have been primed to perform the most vital task moving forward: learning how to learn. All of you, even the crew of the immediately submerged Pizza Party regatta boat, who are already evaluating a re-design, have demonstrated proficiency in this task.

Graduates, we are sure that the final step in your Rectory education is here, just as we know what schools you will matriculate to in September. Beyond that, the rapidly evolving opportunities that await you and, most importantly, what you do with these opportunities is to be determined. Given your track record at Rectory we are confident in your preparedness—in both a technical and human sense—for the challenges ahead. Embrace these ventures with the energy, intellect, and optimism you have displayed on our campus, and remember, as the author Croft Pentz shared, “One machine can do the work of fifty ordinary people, but no machine can do the work of one extraordinary man or woman.”

Congratulations on this next life step, graduates. Now go be extraordinary.

COMMENCEMENT 2018

Given your track record at Rectory we are confident in your preparedness—in both a technical and human sense—for the challenges ahead. Embrace these ventures with the energy, intellect, and optimism you have displayed on our campus, and remember, as the author Croft Pentz shared, “One machine can do the work of fifty

ordinary people, but no machine can do the work of one extraordinary man or woman.”

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

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COMMENCEMENT 2018

graduation day awards The Adam B. Silver ScholarAthlete Cup: Tess Alexandra Barrett

Established in honor of Adam, class of 1982, by his parents, the Silver Cup is given to that student who has demonstrated not only spirit, energy, inquisitiveness, and vigor in the classroom, but determination and commitment on the athletic fields.

The John and Millie Green Cup: Grace Alanna Bullied

Presented to the student who, in the opinion of the faculty, has brought an uplifting spirit and sense of joy to the school community.

The Mabel B. Bigelow Memorial Cup: Kassidy Ann Walden

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 has contributed toward, the welfare of the school.

The Father Bigelow Memorial Cup: Sutthana (GeorgeBush) Sricharoenlumsam

Presented to that male student in the graduating class who “best exemplifies those human characteristics Father Bigelow sought to cultivate in all students. These characteristics are best articulated in John Bigelow’s “Prayer for Rectory,” which reads: “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. This is a goal for the greatest: It is a goal that the least may reach.”

The Mr. and Mrs. John Character Cup: Keegan Thomas Rybacki

Donated in 1952 in honor of Mr. and Mrs. John Bigelow, this cup is intended for a member of the graduating class who has made great progress in all areas of school life, and who has displayed the kindness, compassion, and spirit which is exemplified in the “Rectory child.”

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The Thomas B. Harrison Cup: Brennan Edwards Holmes

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

The Alexander C. Vasiloff Memorial Award: Cameran Paige Steiger

Presented to that Rectory student who best exemplifies those eclectic characteristics, which Mr. Vasiloff lovingly brought to this community, including interest in history, science and mathematics, arts, and literature.

The John Frazar Austin Cup: Jackson Scott Medeiros

Given by John Frazar Austin, a member of the class of 1949, this cup is awarded annually to a student who best exemplifies the “fighting spirit” which will not permit him/her to quit, whether in sports, studies, or striving for general improvement.

John Bloodworth Mobley, Jr. Class of 1991 Cup: Taehan Kim

Given by his parents, the Mobley Cup is awarded to the proctor who, while wholeheartedly embracing all responsibilities associated with the proctor position, best represents the characteristics by which John is recalled here; specifically, tolerance toward, support of, and enthusiasm for his/her peers throughout his/her career at the School.

The Goodridge-Barber Academic Cup: Seojun (DAVID) Yang

Presented to Father Bigelow over forty years ago by a gentleman who said he was tired of seeing the most handsome cups at graduation exercises everywhere go to the best athletes, rather than the best scholars. He was determined that Rectory would have a truly splendid looking cup to present to its top student.

The Charles Rockwell Cup: Brennan Edward Holmes

Donated by Mr. Charles Rockwell, the father of three Rectory graduates: Charles, Jr., 1929; Henry, 1930; and Paul, 1935, the Rockwell Cup is awarded to “that person in the graduating class who has done the most for Rectory.”

The Headmaster’s Award: Jansher Nur Azmat

Given by the Headmaster to a student deserving of special recognition for service or achievement while at Rectory.

Pomfret School’s Patrick Wood Memorial Prize: Brennan Edward Holmes

The Patrick D. Wood ’01 Memorial Prize was established by Patrick’s family to honor him as a scholar and kind friend of many who died before his time. It is intended to give others a chance to excel not only in their years at Pomfret School but in the many years to follow. The scholarship is awarded to a talented student from Windham County who is matriculating at Pomfret School.

COMMENCEMENT 2018

to view more commencement photos, visit: rectoryschool.org/graduation

where are they going?

Avon Old Farms Blair Academy Brooks School Cate School Choate Rosemary Hall Concord Academy Cushing Academy Emma Willard School Episcopal High School George School Governor’s Academy Gunnery School Hopkins School Hotchkiss School Kent School Kimball Union Academy Madeira School Marianapolis Preparatory School Millbrook School New Hampton School Pomfret School Quincy High School St. George’s School St. Mark’s School Stevenson School Suffield Academy Tabor Academy Taft School Westtown School Williston Northampton School Winchendon School Woodstock Academy

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

THELMA R. BARKER In Appreciative Memory 1935-2018

By Lisa Levesque

Great teachers have little external history to record. Their lives go over into other lives. God deals with them as we with candles do—not light them for ourselves. This woman is a pillar in the intimate structure of this school.

With these words spoken by George Groom, retired chair of the history department (and later a member of Rectory’s Board of Visitors and current member of the Board of Trustees), Ms. Thelma Barker was honored at a faculty gathering in spring 2005 upon the announcement of her retirement after having filled fifty years as an educator. As a teacher, tutor, and editor, for forty-two of those years, she shared her knowledge and patient spirit with countless students and faculty at Rectory School. Here are some snapshots from her memory book of the past half-century with Ms. Barker’s reminiscences in italics.

In 1963 Martin Luther King gave his “I have a dream” speech, President Kennedy was assassinated, the Los Angeles Dodgers swept the New York Yankees in the World Series, Toronto won the Stanley Cup, and Ms. Barker decided on a job change.

Before coming to Rectory I was a boarding faculty at Arke Farm School in Woodstock, Connecticut and taught grades one through four in one room. I interviewed with Rectory Headmaster John Bigelow and was hired because I was teaching cursive handwriting and reading with a phonics approach.

I also had some Montessori knowledge and used sandpaper letters.

Ms. Barker’s use of cursive, phonics, and multisensory techniques was a match with Rectory School’s work with dyslexic children.

The foundation of this work reaches back in the School’s history to the 1930s when Father and Mrs. Bigelow’s eldest child, Elizabeth, worked with the Durrell-Sullivan Clinic in Boston and to the 1940s when John Bigelow began an association with Dr. Samuel T. Orton, a neurologist who pioneered research on specific language disability.

Indeed, when the Orton Society (named for Dr. Orton and eventually renamed the International Dyslexia Association) was founded in 1949, many of Rectory’s faculty were charter members. In the 1960s the Society was headquartered at Rectory, and the School’s headmaster, John Bigelow, was treasurer of the Society for fifteen years.

When I came to Rectory, the emphasis was on language training using the Orton-Gillingham book, Remedial Training for Children with Specific Disability in Reading, Spelling, and Penmanship, by Anna Gillingham

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and Bessie Stillman. In addition to the language training work with students, there was a remedial reading program, and the School recently had started a developmental reading program with reading machines. A turning point came when Margaret Rawson taught a workshop for teachers here at Rectory in the summer of 1967.

Mrs. Margaret Rawson, president of the Orton Society, was known internationally as an authority in the field of language disability. In the summers from 1967 through 1972, she conducted at Rectory a seminar on techniques for teaching students with reading disability. By 1970 the workshop was offered as a three-week graduate-level course in the School of Education of the University of Connecticut. In 1969 Mrs. Laura Sharp became director of the Language Retraining program at Rectory. Mrs. Sharp had received her early training in dyslexia at the New York Neurological Institute where Dr. Orton designed his Language Research Project and collaborated with Anna Gillingham.

Under Laura Sharp’s direction, our job as tutors was to teach students how to handle language—teach them how to read, how to spell. We were not to do homework with them. The thrust was on remediation of language difficulties. During the 1980s, when Carole Gooder directed the department, our focus broadened, and it became O.K. to help students with study skills and homework. We accommodated the needs of the types of children who now were coming to Rectory.

In addition to her work with the Language Retraining Program (eventually renamed the Individualized Instruction Program), over the

course of her long Rectory School career, Ms. Barker taught fifth-grade English, edited The Rectory News, and proofread comments, letters, reports, and papers. She long will be remembered at Rectory School as “ye of gentle pen” because, no matter how heavily edited a piece might be, the writer always received gentle instruction rather than criticism.

I always had the students in my English classes memorize poetry. One year an alumnus returned to School and recited “The Wind” by Robert L. Stevenson. It’s always good to hear “you taught me that.” I have enjoyed most working one-on-one with a student because you get to know the child and can see the progress that is made. You wonder, “How much help did I give my students?” There’s always that.

Faculty and students alike answered Ms. Barker’s question in 2002 with these words when the School’s yearbook was dedicated to her: “Rectory School is fortunate that your life’s voyage has made our community your port of call for nearly forty years. Through rough seas and fair sailing, you mentor, teach, inspire, and touch the lives of Rectory School students, staff, faculty, and administrators with a gentle patience that is never lost. Your ability to speak to the heart of a matter while bearing in mind both the common good and the individual needs of a situation secures our respect and admiration.

With acknowledgment of and with gratitude for your knowledge, experience, and devotion, this yearbook is dedicated to you, Thelma Barker, master editor, compassionate instructor, true advisor, and gentle friend.”

In February 2018 Rectory lost a beloved member of its community, Thelma Barker. For over four decades, Ms. Barker quietly influenced the fabric of this School and, through her gentle teaching, set a solid foundation for lifelong learning for hundreds of students. Perhaps you are one of them.

If you would like to share a memory of Rectory for the School’s upcoming Centennial celebration, please email your story to centennial@rectoryschool.org.

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

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AROUND CAMPUS

spring recap Spring on campus was filled with the usual flurry of activities. We had the fantastic musical production of Aladdin Junior, the 9th-grade Capstone Fair, the Memorial Day parade, the Rectory Parents’ Association ice cream social, the 9th-annual Rectory Regatta, Spring Family and Alumni Weekend and the Secondary School Fair, in addition to the usual day-to-day activities.

ABOVE (from left): Lauren J. ’20, Desiree C. ’20, and Maya B. ’20 backstage before the production of Aladdin Junior in May 2018.

RIGHT: Dwayne Jones ’18 presents his Capstone Project on racial profiling during the Capstone Fair in May 2018.

ABOVE LEFT: This Regatta team chose a “Pizza” themed boat to deliver them across the Rectory Pond.

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In May our K-1 students joined members of the Connecticut Audubon from Pomfret to band birds on Rectory’s lower campus. Reuben, pictured here, exclaimed, “chipping sparrows are awesome” after the banded sparrow flew off. Hands-on education at its finest.

AROUND CAMPUS

Chaplain True Bryant stands outside Pomfret School’s Clark Chapel with the ninth-grade speakers for sending chapel.

Spring Sending Chapel The spring semester culminated in a fantastic, communal gathering at Pomfret School’s Clark Chapel. This historic building, with its reverent spire and serene stain-glass windows depicting saints and sages of times past, set a memorable stage for a handful of heartfelt student speeches and well-crafted musical performances.

Rectory’s Chaplain, True Bryant, asked several students to write some words about a person they are extremely grateful for in their lives. Seven students courageously shared their responses.

Veteran faculty member Mr. Braden Long shared powerful words about the importance of perseverance in our lives.

He then proceeded to light the candles of several 9th-grade students stationed along the aisle to the front door. Mr. Brad Seaward, one of Rectory’s most renowned (but unfortunately retiring) faculty members, received the final candle lighting at the door to the church. The

juxtaposition of the young students and the seasoned faculty learning how to live and love within a community blended together beautifully in this service that conveyed and demonstrated Rectory’s Creed and embodiment of its core values.

CARe gardens, which provide vegetables all summer and early fall for healthy snacks.

CARe celebrated in June with 12 preschool graduates. The twelve graduates head off to eight different schools, including Rectory Elementary School.

CAR e Update

Kellogg Awards

CARe continued with their Forest Friday curriculum, bringing the children into the woods once a week. The children have a special spot called Leaf Island where they can wade in the stream, move rocks and logs, and build and create from loose parts.

The preschool Spring Play was a success as the children recreated the favorite story Creepy Carrots by Aaron Reynolds (illustrated by Peter Brown). Families assisted with costumes and the set-up of our Earth Day Art Show after the production.

The children created two earth-inspired pieces, which they sold to their parents for a donation towards a project and charity of their choosing. This year the children chose to donate to The Ocean Conservancy and to use some of the money to support the

The Kellogg Award was established in 1993 to recognize faculty and staff who have demonstrated excellence and commitment to Rectory School. This year we celebrated three faculty members with this award.

Fran Morano, our first two-time recipient and Brad and Mary Lou Seaward, the first couple to receive the award. Read the entire award speeches on our website: www.rectoryschool.org/FacAwards.

Congratulations to our Kellog Award Winners!

Fran Morano, Brad Seaward & Mary Lou Seaward

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ATHLETICS

welcome ms. courtney callanan! rectory’s new assistant athletic director It is with great excitement the Rectory Athletics Department introduces Ms. Courtney Callanan, our new Assistant Athletic Director. Ms. Callanan, a lifelong lover of all sports, has had opportunities throughout her life to play a variety of sports on a myriad of teams. Soccer, a sport she was able to play throughout her four years at Lasell College, is her favorite. Her highly competitive team at Lasell won three consecutive league championships and was the first team in that school’s history to make it to the second round of the NCAA tournament.

Her enjoyment on the college soccer team, as well as a bachelor’s in Sports Management from Lasell and a master’s in Athletic Administration from Ohio University, led her to seek opportunities to coach after graduation.

Ms. Callanan comes to Rectory from Hampton Roads Academy where she coached both high school boys’ and girls’ teams at the JV and varsity level and worked in the athletic administration office. She is excited about her new opportunity at Rectory and is looking forward to working with the Athletic Director, Mr. Mike Healy, and all of the outstanding coaches on staff.

When asked what made her decide to come to Rectory, she said:

“The atmosphere and the passion the faculty have for creating a memorable experience for the students was captivating during my visits. As an administrator, it is refreshing to see that the faculty goes above and beyond to give the students at Rectory an educational experience like no other. I am excited to become a part of that.”

And we are excited to have her here! She comes to campus with her fiancé, Mr. Rob Roy, who also joins the Rectory faculty as a teacher, coach, and dormitory parent, and their adorable six-month-old son, Levis.

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ATHLETICS

spring sports

Our teams enjoyed another successful spring season.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Track,

Varsity Tennis, and Track.

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ATHLETICS

spring sports

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Boys

Varsity Baseball, Boys JV Baseball, Boys Varsity Baseball, and Softball.

OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Varsity

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Golf, Girls Lacrosse, and Boys JV Lacrosse.

ATHLETICS

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

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ALUMNI EVENTS

alumni events MEXICO CITY RECEPTION

Freddy Nagle P’20, Braden Long, and John Seaward traveled to Mexico City in February for a reception hosted by Tania Pinto-Gutierrez and Alfredo Gutierrez Ortiz Mena P’15, P’19. Alumni, parents of current and past students, grandparents, and friends all gathered for a wonderful night of catching up and reminiscing about times had at Rectory. Over thirty alumni spanning from 1984-2017 were in attendance. Thank you again to Tania and Alfredo for their gracious hospitality.

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BOSTON RECEPTION

In May, many of Rectory’s current faculty and staff had the pleasure of catching up with Rectory alumni, parents, and friends at the Harpoon Brewery in Boston. Alumni spanning from class years 1985-2012 were in attendance.

Guests reminisced with their former teachers, coaches, and mentors, while others shared new stories and memories of their days on campus with Fred Williams, Freddy Nagle P’20, Ashley Goethals, Amy Lusa, Glenn Ames P’18, P’21, Lesley Gibbs P’15, P’17, and Lisa Hart P’19, P’21. Guests enjoyed cold beverages and Harpoon’s famous soft pretzels.

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WASHINGTON D.C. RECEPTION

Alumni representing over fifty years of classes from 1960-2010 joined Headmaster, Fred Williams, along with Freddy Nagle P’20, and John Seaward ’02 in Washington D.C. for a reception generously hosted by Ted Kratovil ’60. The event took place at the POV at W Washington D.C. in June. Guests not only enjoyed the spectacular views of our nation’s capital but also were able to reconnect with classmates and the Rectory Family.

Thank you again to Ted for hosting this amazing event.

4 PHOTOS (Clockwise from top left): 1. Mexico City: (back row, left to right) Ricky Sarraf Aboumrad ’16, Braden Long, Pablo Mijares-Musi ’11, Christopher Said Elia ’12, Felipe de Jesus Fierro ’12, Eduardo Girault Morales ’13, Freddy Nagle P’20, Jose Gamio Suarez ’15, Alonso Gamio Suarez ’14, John Seaward ’02, Juan pablo Zuniga Azcarraga ’06, Augustin Franco Aguilar ’14, Rodrigo Mejia Arechiga ’14 (front row) Maria Abascal ’12, Sofia Lara de Juana ’10, Jaime Leon Avalos ’14, Alfredo Gutierrez-Pinto ’15, Regina Fierro Armendariz ’14, and Ana Sofia Torres Burle ’15. 2. Mexico City: Tania PintoGutierrez and Alfredo Gutierrez Ortiz Mena P’15, P’19. 3. Boston Reception: Wayne and Christine Batson P’12, ’16, Lynne and Kevin McKinnon P’11, P’14, and Jennifer and Christopher Choroszy P’11. 4. Boston Reception: Boston guests taking a tour of Harpoon. 5. D.C. Reception: (left to right) Andrew King ’90, Mark Lappen P’93, John Seaward ’02, and Zachary Hill Lappen ’93.

6. D.C. Reception: Host Ted Kratovil ’60 and guests.

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ALUMNI EVENTS

SUMMER EVENT SERIES CAPE COD MEET UP

The Cape Cod Meet Up was a fantastic launch of the alumni 2018 Summer Event Series! Attendees lucked out with beautiful weather to view an Orleans Firebird baseball game! Alumni, past faculty, past parents, and current students were able to catch up in a relaxing environment with friends and family to enjoy the game.

Bonnie Snow P‘81 took the reins and organized some snacks and beverages for everyone.

NANTUCKET RECEPTION

Freddy Nagle P’20 and Ashley Goethals ventured to Nantucket for a quiet reception with some wonderful parents and alumni. Being able to catch up with our amazing community in a beautiful setting is always a treat.

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FAIRFIELD RECEPTION

Freddy Nagle P’20 and Lisa Walsh ’84 enjoyed a nice dinner at Centro Ristorante and Bar with alumni in Fairfield, CT to end our Summer Event Series. Unfortunately, due to bad weather, the Bob Button Big Band could not perform, yet fun was still had by all.

PHOTOS (Clockwise from top left): 1. Heather and Craig Kelsey P’18 with family. 2. Past employee Victoria Martin, Past faculty Allen and Jennifer Peterson with their beautiful daughter. 3. Past Faculty Stephen DiPaolo, Beverly DiPaolo P’11, and Ashley Goethals. 4. Jeffrey Gibbs ’17, Maya Gibbs ’15, Donald and Lesley Gibbs III P’15, P’17. 5. Freddy Nagle P’20, Sharon Fortenbaugh P’19, Harrison Fortenbaugh ’19, Sam Fortenbaugh P’19, and Ashley Goethals. 6. Bonnie Snow P’81 and Freddy Nagle P’20.

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

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ALUMNI

alumni notes 1940s class of 1944: 75th reunion CLASS OF ’44 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage. Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org or 860-963-6740 ext. 370 for more information. Thank you!

MICHAEL HENDERSON ’45 Michael is an author of thirteen books including No Enemy to Conquer (Foreword by the Dalai Lama), Forgiveness: Breaking the Chain of Hate (Endorsed by Archbishop Tutu), Ice in Every Carriage (Foreword by Rajmohan Gandhi), and See You After the Duration (Foreword by Sir Martin Gilbert).

CLASS OF ’46 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage. Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org or 860-963-6740 ext. 370 for more information. Thank you!

CLASS OF ’47 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage. Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org or 860-963-6740 ext. 370 for more information. Thank you!

PETER BELL ’48 Peter writes, “Rectory class of ’48 (yes, 70 years ago). After Rectory and Brunswick School, I finally ended up getting a PhD at Harvard (in Geophysics). I’m now retired...of course. We live in West Palm Beach, FL [and are] always on vacation. My greatest activity is croquet at the National Croquet Center, not ‘tiddlywinks,’ as some of my sailing friends accuse me of.”

JOHN MOORE ’49 John reports, “I had a 25-year career in the Air Force, first as a pilot and then as a communications-electronics engineer, retiring in 1982 as a Lt. Col. Assignments included three years in Germany, two in Labrador and one (1969-70) in Vietnam. We settled in Aspen, CO where we became deeply involved with non-profit organizations and where I taught skiing at the Aspen Highlands ski area for 34 years. My wife, Caroline, and I have been married 62 years. We have four children and eight grandchildren. We sold our Aspen house last year and moved 35 miles away to Carbondale, CO. I have just finished writing my third book, A History of Aspen Highlands, Where Have All the Characters Gone? (The first book was a history of a small community my great-grandfather established on Martha’s Vineyard, MA, Harthaven, The Best Darned Place to Grow Up.) We travel to Martha’s Vineyard each spring and fall to ready houses for summer rentals and close them for the winter. This allows us to see friends and family and to get our “ocean fix.” We travel a great deal; friends consider us “moving targets,” e.g., Central Asia last October, the Far East this spring and Sri Lanka, the Maldive, Seychelles and Mauritius islands this fall. It has been (and still is) an eclectic and blessed life!”

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ARTHUR PARKS ’52

Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

Arthur Parks shares, “In 1957 I left New England for college in Baltimore, then worked in broadcasting in Baltimore, Washington, New York, and Kansas City. I owned an Ad/ PR firm for 17 years with my wife, Nancy, and now am in my 18th year as a residential Realtor. We visit our daughter, her husband, and seven-year-old grandson in Manhattan and Cutchogue and would venture to Pomfret if we travel through that area on one of our driving trips. Rectory has certainly been transformed in the more than six decades since I last saw it! I marvel at the generosity of Oscar Tang and our colleagues of that era; what an amazing job you all have done!”

CLASS OF ’51

HILL BULLARD ’53

1950s CLASS OF ’50

Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

BLAIR BIGELOW ’52

Peter Bell ‘48: The picture was taken to prove that the freezer on my sailboat was working!

at the University of Vermont. What else? After more than forty-two years of living in the Cambridge/Boston/Brookline area, thirty-nine years teaching English at Suffolk University in Boston, and the death of my beloved first wife that ended our marriage (1960--2001), I moved to Pelham and married Meredith Jones (2007). In Pelham, I belong to the Historical Society and the Democratic Pelham Town Committee, served several terms as Library Trustee, and am one of two Town Fence Viewers (as Viewers, since cattle, sheep, and pigs are no longer part of the town economy, we do little but keep a piece of history from total oblivion). We residents of Pelham, bordering the vast Quabbin Reservoir and its watershed, have more than our share of bears, deer, moose, and coy-wolves. (Eastern coyotes, much larger than western, moving west interbred with Canadian wolves. The record is in their DNA.)”

Blair is serving his third three-year term on the Rectory Board of Trustees. He shares, “One of my four granddaughters graduated in May 2018 from Pratt Institute, her younger sister will be a sophomore this fall at Barnard College, and one of her cousins is a sophomore

Hill and his wife, Andrea, sold their farm in Chaplin, CT and downsized, sharing a property near the University of Connecticut with their daughter, Dr. Sarah Bullard. Hill is keeping busy with his Dixieland Band, the Juniper Hill Jumpers, and volunteer work for Joshua’s Tract, a regional Land Trust.

PETER FLETCHER ’53 Peter writes, “Aileen and I celebrated our 56th wedding anniversary in July. We have two children, both married, and [from them] four grandchildren. We live in a pre-civil-war

ALUMNI

farmhouse complete with barn and a historic smokehouse. I have retired from teaching math at Virginia Tech and in my dotage, I have turned to number theory. So far one joint paper in The Journal of Number Theory and one joint paper, which the referee has been mulling over at the rate of one page a month.”

CLASS OF ’54 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

NORMAN COOPER ’55 Norman reports, “I attended Rectory in 1954 and 1955 in the 8th & 9th grades. It was a great two years. I learned to become a good student and an all-around athlete. I have very fond memories of Rectory, especially of General Norman Smith and his family. I’m looking forward to returning to visit Rectory this coming spring. I would love to hear from any of my Rectory friends and classmates. It would be great to be connected again. I am finally retired. I live with my wife, Betty, on Gardner Lake in Oakdale, CT. We have seven children & 11 grandchildren. I love skiing, fly fishing, hiking, biking, swimming, and truck camping. I will be 80 in October, but feel much younger.”

EDWARD BUCKENHAM JR. ’58 Edward provided a brief snapshot into his life: “[I am] married, with two adult male children, and two grandchildren. My wife, Harriette, and I currently reside in Mt. Pleasant, SC. I retired from Motorola Communications in 1999 after 30 years. My wife and I cruised the East Coast full time by boat for six years after that. I currently hold a 100-ton USCG Masters License and enjoy moving other owners’ boats up and down the East Coast as the need requires. I am also a veteran, having served in the USCG from 1963-1967. I hope to hear about classmates.”

years at Rectory) are both deceased, and I do miss them. I have two wonderful sons. Aaron is married to Elizabeth (nee Casariego) and has three special children, Charlotte Perle (5), Harper Mae (2), and Owen Reid (10 months) (pictured below); they live 25-miles southwest of where I live.

CLASS OF ’59 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool. org or 860-963-6740 ext. 370 for more information. Thank you!

1960s CLAUDIA ABBOTT ’60 Claudia shares, “After retiring from Rectory School two years ago, I returned to campus for Summer@Rectory. The students were wonderful and the opportunity arrived at a time when I needed to refocus on activities other than our son’s wedding.”

Jason Chapnick’s ’61 son, Aaron with his wife, Elizabeth, and their three children.

My younger son, Devin, lives in Denver. I remarried in 2014 to a very sweet and caring woman from Thailand, Thongyao “Oo” (pictured below). After I recovered last year, we traveled to Thailand to meet her 94-yearold mother and the rest of her family.

NORMAN (PUNCH) SMITH ’56 Norman writes, “I graduated in 1956 from 9th grade and went onto Pomfret School and Cornell. [I am a] Retired Marine Corps Colonel (1964-1992) and owned a small business in Charleston, SC for 20 years before selling and retiring here. [I have] three daughters, who all live in Charleston, and six grandchildren. I am an active walker and tennis player. I volunteer at the local food bank and am a bible study group leader. I have had the pleasure of breakfasting with Fred [Williams] a number of times on his visits down here.”

CLASS OF ’57 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

Jason Chapnick ’61 with his wife, Oo.

Claudia Abbott’s ’60 two sons—Bill Jr., the groom, is on the left, and his brother, John, the best man, on the right.

JASON CHAPNICK ’61 Jason reports, “I live in Florida, where I settled after going to law school in Gainesville. My brothers, DAVID CHAPNICK ’59 and BARRY CHAPNICK ’61 (yes Barry and I were in the same classroom for my seven

I no longer practice law, but help out at a real estate law firm part-time. 2017 was a hard year for me with back surgery, pneumonia, kidney failure, heart failure, and urinary retention leaving me on death’s door a couple of times. But, I am still here and will celebrate my threescore and ten in August.

I last stopped by for our 50th reunion and look forward to seeing the school again. I still love reading and solving crossword puzzles. I write a blog about the LA times puzzle every Friday and have had four co-authored puzzles published there. With 57 years to catch up on, this is my life and it is good.”

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Rob is currently working on a Rock and Roll project in Nashville, TN. He would like to extend best wishes to his class and to the Rectory School community.

is married with one daughter. I am still very active in mountain biking in the warmer months and skiing in winter. I am hoping to visit Rectory next alumni weekend as it has been too long since visiting.”

CHARLIE WALBRIDGE ’62

CLASS OF ’65

ROBERT PERKIN ’62

Charlie writes, “I’m living in Bruceton Mills, WV; retired 2 years ago. I ran a mail order business, designing and selling whitewater equipment for 22 years. I closed the shop and worked as an outfitter sales rep for one of my competitors for 20 years.

I’m still paddling wild rivers and teaching swiftwater rescue. I have been active with several nonprofit boards including American Whitewater and Friends of the Cheat River, a local watershed group. I just spent a few days teaching canoeing at camp Mowglis, where I went each summer while I was at Rectory.”

1963 class agent: ANTHONY STIGER ’63

anthonystiger@hotmail.com THOMAS GODFREY ’63

Thomas writes, “OK, I’m not retired, at least I don’t think so. Mostly I’ve been in theatre and sports, though I wouldn’t say I was distinguished in either. I have been on just about every existing soap on the air over the last 30 years, plus Law and Order, SNL, and some others. After college, I went to the American Academy and from there did a lot of plays, but no Broadway, though I was cast in one that was scratched before it got that far. Did some sports on TV and wrote a little for the Orlando Sentinel. Was a puppeteer for six years, and through that wound up talking with John Lennon. I’ve been with Valerie for 38 years, and our daughter has given us two grandsons. Last Spring I spent a few hours with a classmate, TOM SOPER, as we were at Gunnery for our 50th reunion.”

Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

BRIAN DIAZ ’66 Brian reports, “I have been a travel agent since graduating from college. I specialized in TV and Movie Production travel, and various bands when they tour. I lived in Los Angeles for 20 years and moved back to New Orleans in 2013. Semi-retired now, I am a consultant for various travel agents who do the same kind of travel. I also work for a Mardi Gras “krewe” during the Mardi Gras season.”

CHUCK MILLER ’67 Chuck is a third generation Wall Street professional who is a lifelong entrepreneur and has a long history of major business interests ranging from Wall Street to Hollywood. These interests include NYSE exchange-traded funds (ETFs), investment banking, hedge funds, alternative asset management, branding, digital marketing, film finance, and acting in and producing of feature films and television. Miller is and has been a board member and advisory board member of numerous companies and nonprofits. He is a 24-year member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA), Rocky Mountain Division, a member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA), and an active member of his church.

RICHARD SMITH ’64 Richard Smith shares, “I am still an independent manufacturers’ rep living in Royal Oak, MI with my wife, Rita. I have two daughters: Erin is living in Cherry Hill, NJ and is married with three children; Shawna is living in Mechanicsburg, PA and 28

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class of 1969: 50th reunion GARY WOLFF ’69 Gary went on to Westminster Academy, followed by Southern Connecticut State University after leaving Rectory. He has been in the Financial Services Industry for 40 years. Gary reports, “Our office was located in Vernon, CT for much of that time, but is now located in Manchester, CT. I currently live in Woodstock, CT on Witches Woods Lake with my wife, Eileen. We have two children, Jonathan and Kristina, as well as three terrific grandchildren.”

1970s DONALD HART III ’70 Donald writes, “I retired from the USAFR in 2005 after 31 years of service as a Senior Master Sergeant. I retired from the US Civil service in January 2015 with a total of 41 years of combined federal service. My wife still works for the FAA as a Materials Handler. We have 5 grandchildren and one great-grandson who is three-years-old.”

Donald Hart III ’70 with his wife.

CLASS OF ’71 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

CLASS OF ’68 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

THOMAS HARVEY ’72 Thomas is living in Saginaw, MI where he is happily married and happily retired. 1973 was the last time he was on the Rectory campus, but he remembers it as if it were yesterday.

ALUMNI

THOMAS LOUTTIT III ’74

send us your updates and upload your photos: rectoryschool.org/alumni

Thomas writes, “Hard to believe it’s been 45 years since my days at Rectory School.

I am semi-retired, having started my own business about 30 years ago—Barrington Mfg. Incorporated, a promotional products company.”

RICHARD “MAC” JACKSON ’72 Richard “Mac” Jackson reports, “I graduated from Rectory in 1972, Holderness School in 1975, and the University of Maryland in 1979 ( BS Agriculture). I farmed the family farm in Maryland with my mother from 1973 (summers and a little in the fall of 1974) until she passed away in 1997. I continued to farm until 2010 when I decided to retire from the agricultural world and follow my passion for teaching skiing. I started teaching skiing in winter of 1981-1982, first in Pennsylvania, then in Vermont from 1991 to present. I am on the Educational Staff of the Professional Ski Instructors of AmericaEastern Division and the Ski and Ride School staff at Sugarbush Resort in Vermont, where we moved to from Maryland in 2011. In the summer I mow lawns and fields, play golf, bike, and volunteer to drive a Mad River Valley Ambulance. I mostly spend time and vacation with my family of five, plus one dog and two ponies. My family consists of Robin, my wife of 27 years, and three kids (24, 22, 18). All the kids are still at home; the two oldest are working in their career fields. My youngest is off to UVM in two weeks. You can check out my website for my business at www.macsmowingllc.com.”

Scott Marshutz ’72.

GIL CABBLE ’73 Gil writes, “[I’ve] been in Texas now 30+ years, but after my daughter went to the University of Southern California (yes THAT USC) and settled in Long Beach as an engineer, we have decided to retire there. We plan to move in early 2019. We bought a house a few blocks from the beach in Long Beach early this year and are planning some remodeling now. I’ve always enjoyed working on my home and since this one is a Spanish bungalow built in 1924, I’m sure one of my main hobbies will be projects on this new-to-me, old home. I also look forward to being able to ride my bicycle on the ocean path for miles year-round. Of course I also plan to take up surfing, cause that’s what every 62-year-old does in Southern California, right?”

TOP: Thomas Loutit III ’74 sent a photo taken in 1973 next to the tennis court at Rectory (Pictured, top Left to right: David Austin, John Ryan, Mark Beauchemin, George Hawkins, Austin Drucker, Randy Beard. Bottom left to right: Jamie Meyers, Tom Louttit, Scott Benton).

BOTTOM: Thomas Loutit III ’74 with his wife, Pam.

SCOTT MARSHUTZ ’72

BRECK PERKINS ’73

KENT CRAIG ’75

Scott graduated with honors from East Hampton High School located in East Hampton, NY in 1976. He then served six years in the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, studied journalism and film at Chapman University in Orange, CA where he made the Dean’s List, was the editor of their student newspaper, and interned at the National Journal in Washington, D.C. in 1987. He spent the next 25 years working as a researcher, writer, and editor on a variety of trade and consumer publications before launching www.marshootzproductions.com to develop and produce documentary films.

Marshutz is based in Dana Point, CA.

Breck reports that he “was lucky enough to marry my prep school sweetheart, so it pays off going to your reunions! Polly and I are the proud parents of 14-year-old twins Jack and Natalie. Natalie is attending Rectory school and is doing great work in the classroom and on the court and rink! Jack is going to Stonington High School, is an offshore sailor and is joining the crew team. I am a partner at Stuart-Lynn Co., with offices in Albany and Manhattan, servicing architectural design and building owners by providing cost consulting. We have been blessed to have worked on a great deal of cultural work over our 19 years of business.”

Kent sends in that he is, “Enjoying Life!”

Kent Craig ’75.

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JAMES (JIM) LEACH ’76 Jim reports, “I am excited to have been elected in May to the Rectory Board of Trustees. As a student, I never imagined that one day I would be back at Rectory serving on its Board. Over the past five years, I have attended the Board of Visitors day at the School. I hold Rectory close to my heart and truly believe that my successes in life are due in part to Rectory.”

PETER HOWARD ’77 Peter wanted to give a general update: “We moved back to Woodstock, CT, where I grew up, in 2015, and are the very happy owners of a 1760 home that served as a tavern during the American Revolution. It was, and continues to be called the Pigeon Inn. We are on a secluded dirt road and surrounded by our chickens, cats, and twelve-year-old yellow lab, Tuck. Our older son, Nicholas, graduated from Bennington College in 2016. Since then he has been very engaged in creating websites for clients and writing a feature-length screenplay, among other smaller projects. He is currently seeking opportunities in the Boston area.

His younger brother, Peter, is currently a junior at Bennington and is trying his hand in a number of interesting and creative opportunities there. My bride, Heidi, is still very busy with her art. Have a look at www. heidihoward.com! I am in my 20th year at Turley Publications, trying to keep the world of publishing and print alive and vital. Best regards to former classmates.”

THOMAS ILLINGWORTH ’77 Thomas reports, “I retired from the printing business in Pittsburgh, PA in 2009; moved to Lynchburg, VA (the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains) in 2011 and am enjoying life doing many community service projects. I just wrapped up an event for the Alzheimer’s Association that kick-starts the local Alzheimer’s walk season where collectively we will raise over $170,000 towards the cure for this devastating disease.

I’m an active Rotarian and share my life with the love of my life, Karolyn, and our four children, three of whom are triplets.

I’m also involved in the solar industry as an 30

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independent representative for a company that designs and installs systems for the commercial and residential markets with a focus on nonprofits like regional school districts as well as private and state schools and colleges. We are proud to be one of a few companies in the state of Virginia that provide savings to the schools and taxpayers by going solar. I’m honored to be with a company and such an exciting industry at my age. I lost my Dad at age 93 back in March 2017, but am blessed to have my mom still with us. I tell her frequently, as I did with my dad while he was with us, how fortunate I was that they gave me the opportunity to go to Rectory, which truly changed my life to the many great fortunes I’ve experienced throughout my life. It pleases me to see Rectory still holds that passion and mission after all these years.”

KEELY KRISKEY ’77 Keely writes, “I still live in Darien, CT with my husband, Scott. We will be celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary this September. We are very fortunate to have both our children and their families living within a 10-minute drive. We now have three grandchildren ranging from seven months to three and a half years of age. I still own Financial Sense, LLC, a small Daily Money Management company.

Retirement? Nope, no time soon. I’ll be older and grayer before I get to do that. Best to all of my Rectory friends!”

DANIEL SHEA ’77 Daniel and family (wife, Doris, and daughter, Izzy) moved to Jupiter, FL two years ago.

They are adjusting to the easy Florida lifestyle and enjoying the great weather. They see some of the old Rectory gang with MARK MARSHALL ’77, RUFUS WAKEMAN ’77, and others. Dan is still employed at Philadelphia Insurance and coming up to his 30 year anniversary. He is the senior vice president of marketing for Philadelphia Insurance Co.’s 24-state Eastern Territory. He has had a great experience working for the company. Dan says to look him up if you are in his area!

JONATHAN BAKER ’78 Jonathan lives in Beverly Hills, CA and is married with three daughters, ages 3, 6, and

12. He is a writer, director, and producer of films for Paramount Pictures. His last film, Inconceivable, was in theaters in 2017 starring Nicholas Cage and Faye Dunaway. His next movie, Becoming Iconic, will hit the theaters in November of 2018. Jonathan spends his free time snowboarding, playing tennis and high stakes poker, and open-water sailing.

Jonathan Baker ’78 with his three daughters.

GABRIEL TRAVERSARI ’79 Gabriel lives in Nicaragua during this devastating time for their country. He is an optimist and a believer that they are in a crisis that they will ultimately overcome.

The social upheaval has permitted him the opportunity to be creative and hence is currently working on various book projects that detail his experience in his country.

Due to the economy halt, Gabriel is having a difficult time funding his current project and would love any support for his cause.

He asks that you check him out at https:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gabriel_Traversari.

Gabriel Traversari ’79.

1980s 1980 class agent: PETER BERK ’80

berk@pmzcapital.com

ALUMNI

CHRISTOPHER BARRY ’81 Christopher reports, “I served my country in two services for 12 years; six years in the Navy and six years in the Coast Guard. After that, I spent the next 20 years in the oil drilling industry working internationally all over the earth. During that time I was fortunate enough to circle the earth three times. I now reside in Northern California working for Tesla Motors.”

GEORGE SHERRILL III ’81 George is now the Rector of Indian Hill Church in Cincinnati, OH.

George Sherrill III ’81.

class of 1984: 35th reunion JED GORE ’84 Jed reports, “I live in Greenwich, CT with my wife, Vanessa Avery; daughter, Jacqueline Alexandria Gore (3.5); and stepson, Daelen Wall (14). We have a full and vibrant family: Jackie attends Chelsea Piers preschool in Stamford and is an avid swimmer and beginner skater. Daelen is entering his first year at Greenwich High School with great expectations. Vanessa teaches religion and interfaith studies at Yale, and I am a Data Scientist at a tech startup in New York called Sentieo. I am passionate about coding in “R,” a niche statistical language for Data Science which is an emerging field in computer science. My parents, Jane and John Gore, were huge fans of Rectory. I am happy to report they are both doing well and live in Princeton, NJ, where my dad works at Lawrenceville, and my mom runs a wealth advisory business. I can be reached at jedgore1@gmail.com, always happy to hear from old friends.”

CLASS OF ’82 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

EDWARD FULLER III ’83 Edward is living in Darien, CT just outside of New York City. He has been married to his wife, Keiley, for 24 years. They have three teenagers. Their oldest son is a sophomore at the University of Denver, their middle son is a senior at Darien High School, and their youngest daughter is a sophomore at Darien High School. All of the children are very active and keeping Edward and Keiley busy.

Edward is currently with a company called ChannelAdvisor as the Strategic Partner & Automotive Category Manager. He joined CA after eight years of Program Management at eBay Motors. He invites anyone looking to enable e-commerce or expand current operations to, “please look me up!”

Jed Gore ’84 with wife, Vanessa Avery.

ROBERT (BOBBY) HOYT ’84 Bobby writes, “After living and teaching on the Big Island of Hawaii for 14 years, it was time to relocate and continue to expand. I’ve landed in Santa Rosa, CA, just about an hour north of San Francisco, and in the middle of wine country. After exploring some of the local Yoga studios, I found one (Yoga One) that resonated with me, and I guess me with them, as I’m now teaching on a regular basis with even more classes coming real soon. Next up is finding one or two more studios to share my practice with people out here. It’s been

send us your updates and upload your photos: rectoryschool.org/alumni

fun to keep in touch with so many Rectory friends throughout the years, and I am looking forward to coming to the reunion and seeing them in person! If you find yourself in Sonoma County, please let me know.”

ANDREW JORDAN ’84 Andrew is currently an airline Captain and Instructor Pilot at Southwest Airlines, based in Las Vegas, NV. Before this, he was a Naval Aviator flying anti-submarine and patrol aircraft for the United States Navy throughout the Middle East, Asia, and the United States. He received his BSM and Naval commission while attending Tulane University and his MSM from Troy State University. When not flying, Drew enjoys outdoor activities with his wife, Lucy, along the Wasatch Front near their home in Salt Lake City, UT. His passion for bicycling has been with him since he left Rectory and he continues to enjoy mountain biking locally and entering endurance MTB events and stage races. He and his wife met through cycling and they have in the past coached and taught 7th-12th grade students to ride and race on their mountain bikes. They love to show off what their local mountains and deserts have to offer, so if you find yourself in Salt Lake City or Las Vegas, please get in touch with them. Drew and Lucy are looking forward to attending the class of 1984’s 35th class reunion and catching up and seeing many old friends and teachers!

Andrew Jordan ’84 with his wife, Lucy.

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captain of the girls’ soccer team. We usually visit family in Italy for at least a couple weeks in the summer.”

NISHANTHAN MAHENDRAN ’84 Nishanthan lives in southern Florida where he practices immigration law. He is married with three children (ages 9-17). His eldest son is a senior in high school. He’s hoping to be back for alumni weekend.

Corey Olds ’84 (center, back) with students and staff at Stockholm International School (SIS) in Stockholm, Sweden. In September 2017, Corey presented his abecedarian A Is For Afro: Reading Is Power to primary students and conducted a writing workshop for middle school students at SIS. Mishanthan Mahendran ’84 with his family.

ANDREW NORRIS ’84 Andrew writes, “I have fond memories of Rectory School even after 34 years. The facilities were (and are) great but what makes the place special are the people. After graduation, I went to Canterbury School and then joined the Marine Corps straight out of high school. I was married in 2009 and have an eight-year-old son named Jonah. My Email is ATN082268@aol.com if anyone wants to connect.”

TIMOTHY POLISHOOK ’84 Timothy shares, “I have been married to my wife for 22 years. We were married on Martha’s Vineyard in Chilmark. We have lived in San Francisco since 1993.

We work together and have built up a fine art transportation company, Ship Art International (www.shipart.com). We have no children, but we have 50 employees, two cats, and a lovely golden retriever named Max. We spend as much time as we can in the Truckee area of the Sierras; fishing, mountain biking, skiing and practicing yoga. I have also tried to work on my plein air painting, which I truly enjoy. I had my first show last year.”

NICHOLAS TOLIMIERI ’84

Andrew Norris’ ’84 son, Jonah.

COREY OLDS ’84 Corey was recently named one of ten national winners in Blurb Books’ “Share Your Story” Instagram Contest. (His Blurb Books feature on Instagram is forthcoming.)

Corey is a retired professor of history and humanities, who has lately been publishing and promoting children’s books written by him and by his Kid Scribes students.

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Nicholas reports, “I did my undergrad at Colby College in Maine, MSc at UNH, and I earned a PhD in Zoology from the University of Windsor. I did most of my graduate work in the US Virgin Islands on coral reef fish ecology. I then spent four years in New Zealand as a post-doc at the Leigh Marine Lab working sensory biology and orientation in larval fishes. I did field work there and a bit on the GBR in Australia. Since then, I have worked for the National Marine Fisheries Service (Seattle, WA) as a fishery biologist (15+ years). I do a range of things from local scuba work to statistics on big data sets. The water is definitely colder in Seattle than in the Virgin Islands. Recreationally, I play guitar, fence, and cycle. I’ve been married for 20+ years to Francesca. We have a daughter (Emily) who is a high school junior and

Nicholas Tolimieri ’84 conducting field work on diving out in the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. .

LISA WALSH ’84 Lisa has been working at Rectory for a year and a half. She’s looking forward to the Class of 1984’s 35th Reunion. This summer she drove over 3100 miles from Connecticut to Ohio, Chicago, St. Louis, Niagara Falls, and back. Her daughter, Sophia, participated in the Summer Nationals (for fencing) in St. Louis so they drove via The College of Wooster, in Ohio, where Lisa studied Art History. They visited the Gateway Arch, St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, and the City Museum.

Lisa Walsh ’84 with her daughter, Sophia.

ADAM FOULKE ’85 Adam has been living and working in the New York area, but has been spending as much time as possible in Maine and South Carolina. He has three boys; the eldest starts university this year.

ALUMNI

send us your updates and upload your photos: rectoryschool.org/alumni

wife, Kristin, have two children: Hall (13) and Lillemor (9). He enjoys boating, fishing, and golfing.

MALCOLM MCKAY ’85 Malcolm reports, “The company to which I was co-founder and angel investor that was founded in 1999 ‘www.IronPlanet.com’ was bought by Ritchie Brothers Inc. in June 2017.

I have a music/talk show on the subject of music history of The Bahamas from the 1930’s to the present day. The program has been on the air for the last ten years. The show, called ‘Island Classics,’ may be tuned into on the world wide web at www.IslandFMonline.com which starts this season on September 3, 2018, from 10:00 a.m. until noon.”

JAMES PATTEN ’85 James writes, “I am knee-deep in launching a new business in the youth sports space, Aspire and Persevere, a health and wellness App for young athletes!”

PETER REED ’85 Peter is living in Southport, CT with his wife, Lis, and their three kids—Kaitlin (16), Maddie (13), and PJ (11). He leads the Insurance Practice in North America for Spencer Stuart, a global retained executive search firm. Peter keeps up with a few classmates including JAMES PATTEN who has recently launched a new digital app called Aspire and Persevere. The app is dedicated to improving the health and wellness of young athletes today as they work to navigate the demands of high school and club athletics.

Check it out at www.aspireandpersevere.com”

Charles Ashford III ’86 with his family.

FREDERICO JORDI GAXIOLA ’86 Jordi was born in Mexico and has lived abroad in Madrid (Spain) where he earned a master’s degree in e-business from the Instituto de Empresa, he also lived and worked in Dublin (Ireland) and New York.

He currently resides in Mérida, in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, where he owns a small digital agency called AlterNativa Soluciones Creativas. Besides being the CEO and head designer, he works as a visual artist, photographer, and web designer, a passion that has earned him some awards and recognition, working with some of the top luxury brands in Mexico and internationally.

CHARLES ASHFORD III ’86 Charles lives in Charlotte, NC where he works for Atrium Health, focusing on Data Warehousing, Business Intelligence, and Software Development. Charles and his

Rod Gerdsen ’86 with his family.

DAVID HARNER ’87 David reports, “Two years ago, I moved back to my hometown of Greenville, SC with my wife, Angela, and two sons William (12) and Samuel (9). I am continuing my commercial real estate development career with Paramount Development Corporation, focusing on new and redevelopment opportunities throughout the Carolinas and Georgia. We love Greenville, and I still play soccer...although now it’s mostly via coaching my nine-year-old’s team.

Cheers to the class of ’87!”

GARI STROH III ’87

DAVID (TRIPP) SMITH ’85 David has been living and working in San Francisco for the last 18 years. His career focus is on disruptive technology, the latest with LinkedIn. He is married with two girls, Raven (4) and Hazel (2).

great kids (Kate is a junior at Blair and Jack is a 7th grader). I’ve done some work with the Advancement and Admissions Offices and love meeting the younger Rectory alums as they join our Blair community. It blows their minds that we had some of the same teachers like Seaward and Washburn. I returned recently to campus to recruit some students and was amazed by the changes.

It truly is a different and wonderful place!

Congratulations and well done!”

Jordi Gaxiola ’86 with his dog “Weston” at the Yucatan Country Club in 2018.

ROD GERDSEN ’86 Rod writes, “I have been working at Blair Academy for the past 14 years as a biology and marine science teacher, tennis and squash coach, and housemaster to 60 sophomore and junior boys. My 20th wedding anniversary is coming up next year, and I’ve got two

Gari writes, “I run a commercial wheat farm in Central Oregon, farming soft white wheat that goes into the export market with grain getting shipped primarily to the Pacific Rim countries: China, Japan, South Korea, Philippines, and Taiwan with the product getting milled for flour to be made into noodles, cakes, and flatbreads. I practice conservation agriculture with no-till and cover-crop practices.”

ROBERT FOGELMAN ’88 Robert went to St. Andrew’s School in Delaware after Rectory and then on to Middlebury College. Upon graduation, he returned to St. THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

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EZEKIEL ‘ZEKE’ FREEMAN ’89 Compiled by Lindsey Verraneault with information retrieved from www.beeraw.com.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Ezekiel (Zeke) Freeman ‘89 about his experience at Rectory and his passions in life.

Zeke and his company, Bee Raw, will be the sponsor and the inspiration behind our new Beekeeping elective offered in the spring term to Rectory Middle School students.

In 1989, after leaving Rectory, Zeke enrolled in the University of Montana as part of their School of Food Management & Culinary Arts. Once he earned his degree, he traveled to France to continue his education at the Hotel School of Grenoble. Upon graduation, he worked at Louis XV under the supervision of Alain Ducasse, a highly acclaimed chef known for his unique interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine.

After two years, Zeke moved back to the States and began working as a buyer for Dean & DeLuca in New York City. In his pursuit of fine foods for the upscale retailer, Freeman discovered Beehive Bee Products, Inc., a small startup with an idea to sell single-floral varietal honeys. Working as an advisor, Zeke repackaged Beehive’s honeys in clear, retro-inspired glass jars, earning recognition in Metropolitan Home’s Top 100.

In 2005, Zeke acquired majority ownership of Beehive Bee Products, relaunched the company as Bee Raw Honey, and expanded to become an Oprah, New York Times, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Livingcelebrated product line that is sold in some of the finest shops across

“In short, I would say that Rectory was the intervention I needed when I needed it. I’m not sure where or how I would have ended up otherwise.”

the country.

Today, Bee Raw is more than a honey company, it is a way of life. Zeke has created a simple, beautiful line of the highest quality products and experiences, and the recipes and pairings to bring them to life.

Additionally, Zeke actively promotes the importance of American familyowned apiaries and works to educate the public about beekeeping and its vital role in agriculture. Zeke is committed to supporting artisanal

Zeke gained an appreciation for homegrown fruits and vegetables and the rich heritage of artisanal food production while growing up on his family’s farm in Northwestern Pennsylvania. As an adult, he turned his passion for preparing food for family and friends into a full-time pursuit of the culinary arts. Zeke believes that “Beekeeping is an amazing pastime that can be a hobby for life. Not only do you get the benefit of the honey, but the relationship with the hive is incredible.”

Zeke spent two years as a boarding student at Rectory. When asked if it was a good school choice for him, his response was unwavering, “For me, it was either Rectory or military school. No brainer. In short, I would say that Rectory was the intervention I needed when I needed it.

I’m not sure where or how I would have ended up otherwise.” Zeke’s fondest memory of Rectory was, “One rainy day the lacrosse team went for a long run because the fields were closed. At the end [of the run], we went slip n’ sliding down one of the grassy hills below Memorial. I think the coaches got in trouble but we had a blast!”

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beekeepers and farmers by ensuring that they receive a premium price for a premium product.

Finally, and possibly closest to Zeke’s heart, the Bee Raw Foundation was formed in 2013 with a mission to help save endangered bees and promote crucial-to-the-planet sustainability.

We couldn’t be more excited and appreciative that our Rectory Family exhibits an environment where our alumni want to give back and share their passions, providing our current students the access to such diverse learning experiences.

Zeke’s passed along his best advice for current Rectory students, “Confront the things that are hard for you, but really focus on your strengths.”

Rectory will be dedicating the Beekeeping space to Zeke in the spring of 2019, upon opening the elective to students. For updates follow Rectory School on Facebook.

ALUMNI

Andrew’s for three years to teach US History, work in the Admissions Office, and coach football and lacrosse. Robert then returned home to Memphis, TN to work in his family’s real estate business after obtaining his MBA from Vanderbilt. He and his wife, Bradley, have a son and daughter, Foster (9) and Eliza (8).

I met shortly after Rectory in 1994 and we have two boys Henry (10) and Teddy (6). We are currently living in Larchmont, NY.”

CLASS OF ’89 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

Peter Chelala ’91 with his family.

1990s CARA JOHNSON ’90 Cara reports, “When last I wrote in, I was still pursuing a career in archaeology and working at the University of Connecticut. Since then my career has taken a bit of a shift. I started teaching science and running an outdoor expedition program at a Montessori middle school, which was my first introduction to Montessori Education. I was there for three years before I took the job as Head of School at Litchfield Montessori School in Northville, CT. I am going into my fourth year as Head at LMS. I live in Washington Depot with my husband, Daniel, and our two dogs. I just returned from a canoeing and camping expedition throughout the Tobeatic Wilderness in Nova Scotia. My colleague Ed Thorney and I were running the trip as part of an outdoor youth leadership program. It was an epic adventure and a true test of our wilderness skills.”

ELLIOT KRALJ ’90 Elliot lives in Austin, TX working in state politics. He has the joy of working next to the Texas Capitol building every day.

PETER CHELALA ’91 Peter writes, “Greetings from the 90s! I graduated in 1991 and thanks to my Rectorybuilt foundation I have been living a life driven by confidence and passion. I have had a career in the advertising space for the past decade, six of those years have been with Viacom in their digital division, based in NYC. I am lucky enough to like going work and even luckier to love going home. I’m married to Cynthia, who

HUNTER SPENCE ’92 Hunter writes, “My wife, Julia, our 3 sons Hunter, Wyatt, Beau, and I live in Baker County, GA, which is in the far southwest corner of the state, where I manage a privately-owned hunting property. My focus is on quail and land management. I have been in my current position for 13 years. I have been working in the wildlife and land management field for 22 years. Whether it is on horseback or a mule-drawn hunting wagon, guests love hearing the contrast about my time at a Connecticut boarding school.

My time at Rectory holds some of my fondest memories. However, I do not miss the sports coats and ties I had to wear every day!”

LORENZO FORNARI ’91 Lorenzo reports, “I live in Paris and have co-founded the world’s best adventure travel marketplace called outdoorvoyage.com, in conjunction with one of the most respected and authentic international outdoors activities magazine and website called The Outdoor Journal (www.outdoorjournal.com). Always happy to give some exclusive discounts on subscriptions and voyages/trips to fellow Rectory alumni and current faculty and staff etc., and get them informed and traveling to the far reaches of this wonderful planet.”

PABLO LEBRIJA-URREA ’91 Pablo notes, “I’m a Film and TV Series Producer in Guadalajara Mexico. I usually produce films that my brother writes, and I sometimes give producing services to other production companies from Mexico City or around the world. The last three productions that I did were a film called Sundown (a coming-of-age comedy filmed in Puerto Vallarta Mexico), No Manches Frida 2 (a comedy) filmed in Punta de Mita Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta, and The Disconnection Era (a documentary).” Pablo enjoys reading scripts and books, going to the beach, playing tennis, and watching films and TV series in his spare time.

Pablo LebrijaUrrea ’91.

Hunter Spence ’92 with his family. .

RODRIGO TORREBLANCA ’92 Rodrigo reports, “I’m married and have a 5-year-old daughter. I’m a partner in a company based in Mexico City that has five areas: Technology integration for the residential and commercial markets; Rental & Staging for the pharmaceutical, financial, and automotive markets; Planning all the logistics of transportation, hospitality, and activities for a diverse number of companies; IT equipment; and Public Relations for our automotive clients. I’m also partnered in a night show in Cabo regarding the Huichol culture called The Wirikuta.”

Rodrigo Torreblanca ’92.

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ALUMNI

CLAYTON LEBLANC ’93 Clayton notes, “I co-founded Eppig Brewing in San Diego in the fall of 2016. We have two locations, one tasting room on the water overlooking downtown and the brewery in the hipster neighborhood of North Park. I’ve been professionally brewing for six years and am loving every minute of it. I live with my partner, Katie, and my four-year-old son, Briggs, and our dog, Fozzie. I miss the old beautiful aspects of New England (maple trees and Victorian homes) but love the sunny weather here in San Diego. We hike in the mountains when we can and spend a lot of time at the San Diego Zoo.”

JOHN ROTH ’94 John reports some exciting news, “My wife, Lucy, and I had our first child on June 3, 2018. We named him Clinton Holmes Roth.”

difficulty my family had to face. Even after 20 years, I often think about and miss Mr. Seaward, Mr. Washburn, Mr. MacKenzie, Mr. Groom, and Ms. Morrison who was my tutor. Oh, while I was serving the army in Korea with US soldiers, I met SHANE COURNOYER, who is the son of Mrs. Maureen Cournoyer who works in the Education Office. It was so awesome to meet him (but this was 2004 I think, so a long time ago).”

RACHEL (SCHOPPE) ROGERS ’99

Clinton Holmes Roth, son of John Roth ’94.

Rachel reports, “I just started my 5th year at Marianapolis Preparatory School and am very fortunate to get to work alongside my husband there. We live on a beautiful lake in Webster, MA with our two children.”

TREVOR REES ’95

Clayton LeBlanc ’93 with his family. .

class of 1994: 25th reunion MARCELO LOZANO ’94 Marcelo is going to fish in the World Cup of Bass Fishing in 2018. He represented Mexico in the BASS Nation Championship in Louisiana in 2015.

Trevor moved to Williamsburg, VA with his wife, MORGAN REES ’97, two years ago where they recently bought their first home. Trevor is teaching science and coaching soccer at Hampton Roads Academy where their sons, Corbin and Berkley, are entering second grade and kindergarten. Morgan is working as an operations coordinator at United Site Services.

They love the southern life!

CLASS OF ’96 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

Rachel (Schoppe) Rogers ’99 and family.

2000s CHARLES HAMILTON ’00 Charles just had his third baby boy, Oliver Hill Hamilton.

MORGAN REES ’97 Morgan and TREVOR REES ’95 moved to

Williamsburg, VA two years ago where they recently bought their first home. Morgan is working as an operations coordinator at United Site Services. Trevor is teaching science and coaching soccer at Hampton Roads Academy where their sons, Corbin and Berkley, are entering second grade and kindergarten. They love the southern life!

Marcelo Lozano ’94 .

JEFFREY LUPIENT ’94 Jeffrey is the CEO of the Lupient Automotive Group. He lives in Lake Forest, IL and just got married to Bridget Napleton on September 8, 2018! Congrats to you both!

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

Charles Hamilton ’00 with son Oliver Hill Hamilton.

WOO JAE BYUN ’98 Woo writes, “I currently live in Seoul, Korea and work as a freelance illustrator and a principal of a small private after-school art class (www.beinsteins.com). I came right back to Korea after Rectory due to the financial

HENRY BOWDEN III ’01 Henry is in his sixth year of practicing law in Atlanta and he reports that everything is going well. He is looking forward to a trip to the Cayman Islands in October.

ALUMNI

KATRINA KUCHER ’01

JOHN SEAWARD ’02

Katrina shares, “I have been working as an Environmental Coordinator for Volvo Trucks Group Technology North America and gave birth to my daughter in June 2017. I am also engaged to be married next year.”

John has been enjoying traveling the country and globe while educating families about the Rectory experience, as he continues in his role as Rectory’s Director of Enrollment.

He is now in his ninth year of employment at Rectory! This past summer, John spent a week in Shanghai exploring the incredible city and reconnecting with some former Rectory students and families.

Ben Drexler ’05 with Pam and Glenn Ames.

TOM RICE ’03

STEPHANIE BOLDUC ’06

Tom is residing in Clare, Nova Scotia with his wife, Jenny, and their two dogs Finn and Ava. He is currently working as an Able Seaman for Seaward Services and working towards a Third Mate’s license.

Stephanie writes, “My life is currently split into two locations! I am a Zumba instructor in Massachusetts and a photographer at the Magic Kingdom in Florida. I go back and forth.”

Katrina Kucher ’01 with family.

Dylan reports, “I’m currently studying for my real estate license but most of my time is spent at home raising my daughter, Layla. In my spare time, I still enjoy playing ice hockey and have newly discovered that I am quite the chef! Bon appétit!”

PABLO OROZCO ’01 Pablo “ Orozco writes, “I majored in political science and public management and then earned an MBA. I have developed different business and social aid projects in education, arts, and prevention of human trafficking.

I was a candidate for mayor of an area of Mexico City in the 2018 elections. I am now starting a business incubator. I am a travel junkie and a coffee geek.”

DYLAN CARON ’07

JOSEPH KLEPPER ’07

Tom Rice ’03.

Joseph notes, “I’m working as an Independent Sales Representative as I strive towards building my company.”

DANIELLE DERRICO ’07

JOSH HARRIS ’02 Josh writes, “Since Rectory I’ve had the privilege of performing stand-up comedy on NBC’s Stand Up For Diversity, TBN, and have written for Cartoon Network Online. I’ve also been featured prominently on the Christian Radio Station FaithTalk 970. Teachers like Mr. Seaward believed in me before I believed in myself and gave me an unshakeable foundation. When God put Rectory in my life he was certainly showing off. Check out all my latest happenings at www.FunnyJosh.com.”

Josh Harris ’02

CLASS OF ’04 Looking to reconnect with your classmates?

Consider becoming a class agent and encourage your classmates to re-engage.

Contact us at alumni@rectoryschool.org for more information. Thank you!

BEN DREXLER ’05 Ben returned to Rectory for a visit on July 23, 2018. He notes, “Going back to Rectory this summer was more amazing than anything I could have hoped for. Getting to see Ms. Morano, Mr. Long, Mrs. Ames, and Mr. Ames for the first time in 13 years was truly incredible. Walking campus brought back countless memories and made for a very special couple hours. The most significant and important parts of my character were developed at Rectory and I’ll never be able to say thank you enough. But someone please say ‘thank you’ to Mr. Healy for me!”

Danielle shares, “I currently live on the Upper East Side in Manhattan and work in Investor Relations at a private equity firm, Leeds Equity Partners. We focus on investing within the Knowledge Industries which includes education, training, software and information services!”

CHELSEA BRISSON ’08 Chelsea is working on her masters in Biology from California State University Northridge in Los Angeles. Her thesis project is focused on coral.

CORMAC DENNEHY ’08 Cormac writes, “I’m living in New York City. I work in Brand Endorsements and Fan Conventions at a talent agency here. I travel pretty much every weekend “covering” a convention with our clients all around the world. On my own time, I manage a band called Shiffley.”

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ALUMNI PROFILE

Edwin (Win) Warfield ’06 Interviewed by: Lindsey Verraneault, Alumni Relations and Events Manager Edwin “Win” Warfield ‘06 has started a new adventure and is excited to share it with his Rectory Family, but first, he shared his experiences at Rectory and how they helped to get him where he is today.

Q: How long were you at Rectory and what made you choose Rectory?

Q: What is your fondest memory of Rectory?

win: I came to Rectory in 2004 and graduated in 2006. I arrived

and on my drive up to school, I stopped by Andrew Gray’s house for

at Rectory two weeks before my 8th-grade school year started. At

breakfast. It’s moments like these that show that Rectory’s teachers

the time, my parents were in the midst of a difficult divorce and my

are fully committed to their student body. It’s been more than ten

family was in turmoil. I remember my mom and I realizing during our

years since I last saw Andrew, and without skipping a beat, we were

introductory tour that Rectory’s core values were capable of providing

reminiscing about all of the great memories we had shared when he

me a much-needed support system. Rectory was also an excellent fit

was my varsity lacrosse coach. I also have memories of playing hockey

academically and was the perfect place for me to continue my lifelong

on Mike Healy’s team. At the time, I was blessed to be a gifted player

passion for playing ice hockey and lacrosse. From our first introduction

but lacked a killer slapshot. I couldn’t figure out the technique. Every

to the faculty and the campus, I knew Rectory School was and would

single day before practice, I would rush to the gym in order to get a

become my family of choice.

head start on practice, determined to figure it out. I tried to be the first

win: The friendships! I just attended the spring Alumni weekend

player on the ice, where Mike and John [Healy] would offer pointers Q: Was Rectory a good school of choice?

and support. They encouraged me to exceed my limitations and would

win: Yes! Upon arriving at Rectory, I faced many challenges, both

watch me shoot hundreds if not thousands of pucks. One day, a

academic and personal. I was searching for stability after the upheaval

couple of months into the season, it all clicked! I had figured out how

of my own family. Rectory’s environment was the best substitute

to take a slapshot. I give Mike and John full credit. Like so many other

parent. Rectory also offered a structure where I could step away from

experiences at Rectory, I could not have accomplished this alone.

the turbulence existing elsewhere in my life and submerge myself in an environment that is inherent in its design to tap into potential. By the spring of my first year, I developed deep and meaningful relationships

Q: Where did your life take you after Rectory?

with my peers and faculty members on a level I did not believe possible.

win: After Rectory, I matriculated at Brewster Academy in Wolfeboro,

All fostered by the environment at Rectory. These relationships continue

NH where I played varsity hockey and lacrosse all three years. During

to this day and are one of the foundations of my life. Rectory was

my first year at Brewster, I was paired with Mark Lubin, who is now my

my sanctuary, and I loved every minute of it. Rectory has played a

business partner at Homies. We’ve taken our history as roommates and

meaningful role in where I am today and also provided me with life-

turned it into our business. After Brewster, I briefly attended Stevenson

changing experiences I’ll forever hold close to my heart.

University and transferred to the University of Maryland—College Park where I received my Bachelor’s Degree.

Q: Were you a boarder or a day student? win: Boarder. I was from West Palm Beach, Florida.

Q: What keeps you connected to Rectory? win: The people. To this day, I still stay in contact with teachers and past

Q: How did Rectory influence your life?

classmates. These relationships have continued to grow and I make sure to

win: Rectory helped me develop not only a sense of confidence within

hold onto these close friendships because they are hard to come by.

myself but also had a profound impact on my academic performance.

The small class environment, along with supportive teachers allowed me to conquer academic challenges I did not think possible. I was not only

38

Q: What would your advice be to the present students at Rectory?

able to break through my learning disabilities, but also lay the foundation

win: Stay close with your friends. Remember where the magic

to cope with these challenges and learn solutions on how to be a better

began! Attending Rectory was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Seize

student. This, in turn, built my confidence academically and I was no

every opportunity available! Other than that, if there’s one piece of

longer intimidated by school. I fully credit Rectory for this breakthrough

advice I can share, it is to work hard and know that nothing takes the

and the main reason why I was able to attend and be academically

place of “suiting up and showing up.” I didn’t do it perfectly, far from

successful at the University of Maryland. To this day, the most important

it, but I wouldn’t have the opportunities that I do if I did not seize every

decision I made was deciding to attend Rectory.

friendship and opportunity that was placed before me.

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

ALUMNI PROFILE

Where is Win now?

Win and his partner, Mark Lubin, launched the app, Homies in August of 2017 in Baltimore, MD. “Think of an eHarmony for roommates meets airbnb for rooms. The difference is you find a room that fits exactly what you’re looking for.

We’ve taken the approach that finding a place within your budget is only one important component in a shared living situation.”

“

The idea came as a result of his personal experiences trying to find housing. After graduating from the University of Maryland, Win moved back to Baltimore to start his career in Real Estate. During the summer after graduation, Win and Mark Lubin, roommates at Brewster Academy, were discussing how unhappy they were with their roommate situations, and how great it would have been if they had been able to learn more about their roommates before moving in together. Win, in Baltimore, and Mark, in Los Angeles, both encountered the same issue. They quickly recognized that there was a great need for a service that would enable a person looking for a roommate to maximize the likelihood of finding a good fit before getting into the relationship. Just like that, in August of 2015, Homies was born! Homies will fix the problem for like-minded people to find roommates and quality housing.

It took some time for Win to obtain the initial investment needed to launch the company. The investment came from contributions from past customers and friends from Win’s previous entrepreneurial ventures who knew and understood his work ethic. Since the launch, the app has reached over 10,000 downloads with an average of 1,500 active users monthly.

Homies mission is to connect like-minded people as roommates and to also market available rooms for rent in one’s home.

Homies has a compatibility questionnaire, which is based on household and social preferences. Each potential rooming situation is assigned a compatibility score based on the likelihood that the subscriber will get along with the potential housemate. The goal is to be an all-in-one housing platform for millennials.

Homies is helping to solve the over-saturation of empty apartment buildings that Baltimore is realizing. Property management companies are now looking to appeal to a younger demographic and Homies is helping them do so. An apartment building is given an exclusive page on Homies (similar to Zillow but interactive for tenants and potential tenants). Within the exclusive page, the building is assigned a portal. The portal is a way for potential tenants to meet other like-minded people who are interested in the building but require a roommate in order to sign and afford a lease. This is a great way for buildings in the area to attract a younger demographic who, on their own, would be priced out of living there.

Win would love for you all to check out his new app and spread the word!

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

39

ALUMNI

CHARLES “C.J.” FRATES ’08

MATTHEW MITCHELL ’08

C.J. shares, “I got married back in March to my wife, Amanda. For work, I am a regional sales director selling software that supports financial reporting teams. I am living in Hampton, NH and enjoy running with my black lab, Zeke!”

Matthew has been traveling all over the western United States taking pictures and going to festivals looking for a place to land so he can continue college in marine studies. Otherwise, he found a family of friends in Prescott, AZ after his first two years of college, who “I’ve been pumping out art with, large-scale like a 2-circular acre geometric farm in Arcosanti, and small-scale on canvas, and music, yadda yadda.”

DESMOND GRAY ’08 Desmond reports, “I am currently a marketing advisor for Foxwoods Resort & Casino. I have also been married now for five years and have a three-year-old daughter named Chenoa (which means dove in our native American language).”

JESSE MACDONALD ’08 Jesse is currently living in Columbus, OH with her husband, David, and their furry child, Ava. Jesse and David were married in September 2018 after being together for seven years. They had a destination wedding in Walt Disney World in Florida. Jesse works as an employment tax attorney at Ernst & Young LLP. In her spare time, she enjoys fashion, reading, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends.

ELIZABETH FRIEDA SANGREE ’08

HANNAH (SMITH) STEWART ’08

Joseph graduated from the University of New Haven with a degree in management and a minor in the sports industry. He was the school’s most valuable male athlete of the year and the baseball team’s MVP. Joseph was rated in the top 20 in New England for major-league baseball draft prospects and was awarded a full scholarship to get his master’s degree at the University of New Haven.

Joseph is also playing football this fall.

Hannah shares some exciting news, “I am working at Rectory School as a dorm parent, advisor, coach, and in the tech office. I love working where it feels like home and am so grateful for every opportunity here.

I got married in January 2017 and we are expecting our first baby in March!”

class of 2009: 10th reunion

Molly reports, “I’ve graduated from ECSU with a bachelors in psychology and am currently an Inside Project Manager with ARS Restoration Specialists handling mitigation losses: fires, flood, water, and mold. I am excited to see where things go from here.”

RAKEEM “ROCKY” MEANS ’08 Rocky writes, “Hey guys. I just graduated from Boston University with a master’s degree in Criminal Justice (cybercrime). I’ll be working on trying to get into a PhD program for next year!”

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

Liana shares, “I am currently an assistant store manager for Kohl’s Department Stores, where I also recruit students from campus and champion the Kohls’ volunteer program. In my free time, I volunteer in the Dominican Republic teaching impoverished children English.”

2011 class agent: Minseung (Clint) Yoo’ 11

Erin notes, “I’ve gotten into working in technical theater, currently for Royal Caribbean International, behind the scenes on cruise ships.

In my spare time, I make costumes for dancers, skaters, and drag queens!”

MOLLY MACKENZIE ’08

2010s LIANA THERRIEN ’10

Elizabeth now works as a secondary school English teacher. In her spare time, she pursues her interests in botany, environmental education, and hiking.

ERIN WHITE ’08

Jesse MacDonald ’08 with her husband, David.

reunion and hopes to see many other classmates there, too.

2009 class agent: MIN JAE YOO ’09

minjaeyoo92@gmail.com QUADRY ANDERSON ’09

Quadry was nominated by the New York City Department of Education to teach children with disabilities. Quadry has started an amateur athlete union (AAU) basketball program “We Run As 1 NYC” (@wra1nyc) with Rectory classmate Naasir Williams ’09.

MIN JAE YOO ’09 Min Jae Yoo works for Merck as a Public Policy Specialist. He is looking forward to coming back to Rectory for his 10th

minseung.yoo@yale.edu JOSEPH CAICO ’11

JACKSON LARRABEE ’11 Jackson recently graduated from Maine Maritime Academy and accepted a job as the new Superintendent at the Federal Marine Terminal in Eastport, ME. 2012 class agents: Sunggyu (Scott) Bae’ 12 Carlin Testa’ 12

carlintesta@verizon.net

2013 class agents: Ceasar Holcombe’ 13

cj.holcombe@yahoo.com

Shailyn Lineberry’ 13

shailyn.lineberry@du.edu MEGAN CAICO ’13

Megan is going into her junior year at Bridgewater State College in Bridgewater, MA where she is studying social work.

Megan has made the Dean’s list every semester thus far. Rectory prepared her well and her future seems bright.

ALUMNI

JASON WANG ’13 Jason notes, “I am doing well at Cornell University. I just finished my freshman year and am currently on summer vacation. I greatly appreciate Rectory and everyone’s support along the way, and I’ll never forget how much Mr. Seaward supported me throughout my time there.”

2014 class agents: Maia Lineberry ’14

maialineberry@gmail.com

Louisa (Seoyeon) Park ’14

louisapark1998@gmail.com

Elizabeth McKinnon ’14

lizzmckinnon16@gmail.com CALEB BOWEN ’14 Caleb is at Norwich University in the Corp of Cadets. He is majoring in Criminal Justice and enrolled in Army ROTC.

ELIZABETH MCKINNON ’14 Lizz reports, “I am now attending Nichols College in Dudley, MA, about 20 minutes from Rectory, and am going into my sophomore year. I am playing two sports, field hockey and lacrosse, and having a great time! I am still working in the horse industry in my free time, but mainly in the summer.

I also still visit Rectory, since I’m so close, most recently seeing Mr. Seaward! I hope to be back to Rectory now that I have adjusted more to my college schedule!”

permaculture farm or on the construction site was such an eye-opening experience in learning the true difference between simplicity and poverty. I was also able to go on amazing adventures including swimming with local Asian elephants, bamboo rafting down the Mae Tang River, meditating with the local monks, and participating in cultural ceremonies!”

REBECCA ROWLAND ’15

STEVEN FERRARO ’15

MARK SU ’15

Steven notes, “I am currently on to my senior year at my boarding school in Vermont called Lyndon Institute. I play football and hockey.

I am the starting quarterback in football and 1st-line center in hockey. I’m head of dorm council and a member of student council!”

GRAYCE GIBBS ’15 Grayce graduated from Choate Rosemary Hall in June. She worked in Rectory’s Alumni & Development Office over the summer and is looking forward to attending Dartmouth College in the fall.

MAYA GIBBS ’15 Maya just finished up her senior year at Hotchkiss. Over the summer she worked as a camp counselor on Cape Cod. This fall she will be attending Georgetown University.

TONY JI ’15 Tony just graduated from St. Andrew’s School. He will attend the University of San Francisco this fall.

OLIVIA LYNCH ’15 Olivia has been working as a media communications intern for an international boarding school called Wasatch Academy.

Rebecca just graduated from high school.

For college, she will be attending the Institute for Collegiate and Career Studies in Amenia, NY.

MADELINE SHARPLESS ’15 Mae was awarded the Sarah Lawrence Dean’s Scholarship and will be joining the Sarah Lawrence College class of 2022 in September.

Mark spent his summer in Guangzhou, a port city in China. In Guangzhou, he got to spend time with his parents and work at an elementary school called MaxEn, where he taught English.

JT WHEELOCK ’15 JT will be attending the University of Findlay in the fall after spending the summer horseback riding and relaxing.

2016 class agents: Samantha Ciancio ’16

Sam.keeper24@gmail.com Caesar Dai ’16

daixf888@gmail.com Gene Chang ’16

nacl146@gmail.com

JIN TANAKA ’17 Jin is now keen on programming. He is preparing to attend college in the US after he graduates from his secondary school in Tokyo, Japan. Jin is a member of the Varsity Robotics Club at school and also a member of Japan’s Olympic Cup Junior Squash Team in Tokyo. Jin plans to visit colleges next year in the US and hopes to stop by Rectory through his travels.

SOPHIA PARK ’15 Elizabeth McKinnon ’14 with her parents.

SARAH PASQUALETTI ’14 Sarah shares, “I went to Thailand and Laos on an overseas volunteer trip with the organization GIVE Volunteers to work in developing communities and help in their English education programs. Being able to work alongside the locals on the

Sophia just graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy. Over the summer she worked in a biotech lab at MIT. She will be attending Georgetown University in the fall, planning to major in biology and statistics.

JOEY ROGALSKI ’15 Joey Rogalski graduated from The Gunnery in May. He is excited to be attending Elon University in the fall.

Jin Tanaka ’17.

we would love to hear from you!

Contact Lindsey Verraneault, Alumni Relations and Events Manager at 860.963.6740 x370 or email lindsey.verraneault@rectoryschool.org.

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

41

100 IN 2020 UPDATES

Rectory School Turns 100 in 2020! celebrating the centennial

Share Your Memories

The Centennial Committees have been hard at work

We are putting together a Memory Book of stories and

putting together plans to mark Rectory’s Centennial

photographs from across Rectory’s 100 years, and we

Celebrations. The official kickoff will be Fall Family

would love to hear about your time here. Either go to

Weekend in October 2020, and a Gala Celebration is

our website and fill out our online form letting us know

planned for Alumni Weekend in spring 2021.

of your interest to be interviewed, or send your memories directly to:

new centennial logo & website With thanks to Elizabeth Zimmermann ’84 for the design,

centennial@rectoryschool.org

did you notice our new Centennial logo on this page?

Perhaps you want updates or to be a part of the Centennial

Donate

planning. Then, turn to Rectory’s website, and you will find

What’s in your attic, closet, or basement? The Archives

the newly launched Centennial pages. On the website,

actively seeks donations of materials related to the history

you can share your memories, volunteer, contribute to the

and experience of Rectory School. Check it out the next time

Archives, and view the calendar of events:

you are on campus! For questions, email:

www.rectoryschool.org/centennial

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018

archives@rectoryschool.org

your gift. your impact.

The Annual Fund for Rectory

ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT ATHLETICS FACULTY FINANCIAL AID STUDENT LIFE TECHNOLOGY

Give to The Annual Fund for Rectory and make a difference across campus. www.rectoryschool.org/give

• Fun Run • Faculty & Student Panels • Reunion Class & Alumni Luncheon • Athletic Games • Campus Tour • Class Photos

• Cocktail Hour • Alumni Dinner & Awards Ceremony Emerging Leader Award Athletic Wall of Honor Distinguished Service Award • Golf Tournament

All Rectory alumni are invited back to campus, with special celebrations for the following reunion years: 1944 | 1969 | 1984 | 1994 | 2009

Alumni Reunion Weekend is fun for kids too! We invite you to bring your family to join in several kid-friendly activities that make the day memorable for the whole family.

Where Will Rectory Take You?

#Rectoryschool #melp

Every spring, Rectory Middle School students are involved in a week-long March Experiential Learning Program (MELP). In addition to visiting exciting museums, historic locations, and other interesting places, each program has a volunteer component where the students learn more about giving back. In the spring term of 2018, we also introduced MELP Junior to our Elementary School students. Here is an overview of some of the trips. Stay updated by following us on social media:

Kayaking while on the “Jekyll Island” program.

Gabe F. ‘19 was on the “Charter Philly” program and volunteered at West Philadelphia Achievement Elementary School.

Climbing the walls while on “Inside New England Sports.”

The “Fantasy of Flight” MELP headed to Florida and visited the Kennedy Space Center.

From left: Brennan Holmes ’18, Justin M. ’20 and Mr. Ryan Finnegan volunteered in a soup kitchen during their “Discover America’s Music City” MELP in Nashville, Tennessee.

Laura L. ‘24 made her own rod puppet with the help of the Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry during MELP Junior.

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A Whole New World: Tom F. ‘19 and Brooke Z. ‘19 take to the night sky on a magic carpet ride during the spring 2018 production of Aladdin Junior in the P.Y. & Kinmay Tang Performing Arts Center. The production included over fifty students from the middle school and a cameo appearance from fourth graders as a way to introduce them to musicals. As always, the students put on a wonderful performance under the guidance of faculty members Donna Bessette, Ryan Finnegan, and Hannah Stewart ‘08.

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2018