The Rectory News | Fall 2019

The Rectory News THE MAGAZINE OF RECTORY SCHOOL, POMFRET, CONNECTICUT | FALL 2019

Woodshop Returns To Rectory

Hands-On Learning Commencement 2019 100 in 2020

2020 Board of Trustees James E. Bell III ’71, P’17 Lisa T. Canter, M.D., P’19 Sheila J. Clancy P’20 Daniel J. De Nuccio 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 Lingyan (Robin) Li P’21 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 Natasha Harvey Swann ’84 Xin Tang P’21 Kevin M. Tubridy ’60 Johnny L. L. Wells ’03 Van H. Wilshire ’86 Elizabeth H. Zimmermann ’84, P’19 Frederick W. Williams, Ex Officio 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 Samuel K. Scott ’90 Alfred Slanetz P’15, P’15 Charles Tannenbaum ’98 RJ Tolson ’08 Bingnan Wang and Ying Shen P’20 Andronica Stanley-Wheelock P’15 John H. White ’73 S. Dunham Rowley ’60 and Louise Witherite Benjamin Williams William Woods GP’08 Zhixin Zou and Yanqin Ding P’21, P’24 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.

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ON THE COVER: James D. ’20 and Justin F. ’20 use a hand planer on the cross-section of a tree trunk in woodshop class. Woodshop was re-introduced to Rectory’s curriculum last year after a 25-year hiatus. Read more about woodshop on page 11.

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

PRINTING: 101 Business Solutions

02 hands-on learning 04

CHILDREN AT RECTORY: MULTI-SENSORY EXPLORATION

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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

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MIDDLE SCHOOL: COLLABORATION, CREATIVITY, AND CRITICAL THINKING

EDITOR: Lisa Walsh ’84 ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Dawn Chmura PROOFREADERS: Megan Bard & Dawn Chmura PHOTOGRAPHY: Megan Bard, Nicole Bushey, Chip Riegel, Jeremy Useted, Lisa Walsh, Rectory School Archives FRONT COVER: Chip Riegel

RECTORY SOCIAL FEED: www.rectoryschool.org/social

linkedin.com/company/ the-rectory-school

12 commencement 2019 16 tom succop’s ’50 tea dance card: my card is full!

18 rectory turns 100 in 2020

facebook.com/RectorySchool

instagram.com/rectory_school_ct

twitter.com/RectorySchoolCT

Departments 20 around Campus

26 Alumni events

23 Athletics

28 Alumni Notes

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

In all three divisions, Rectory teachers weave hands-on learning opportunities into the curriculum. Whether they are measuring, dissecting, or mastering a new instrument, the process of experimenting with trial and error teaches students to learn from their mistakes and work through solutions.

In the classrooms, our teachers broaden students’ experiential learning by encouraging them to engage with each other to find answers. New middle school elective offerings like needlepoint, coding, woodshop, and model plane building open up further opportunities to learn. Students can collaborate and engage in kinesthetic learning that is imperative for continued success in the classroom. This approach has proven to be a far more popular way of learning with students, resulting in more engagement and a greater understanding of the material. >>>

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

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Simply put, children and people learn by doing. With caring teachers to support, guide, and extend a child’s hands-on play, children’s learning is amplified to not just doing but knowing.

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

HANDS-ON LEARNING

early childhood Children at Rectory: Exploration In Multi-Sensory Classrooms

by Erin Hayden, Director of Children at Rectory At the heart of today’s educational trends is the concept of bringing lessons from abstract to concrete. In practice, this means “closing the book” (quite literally) and providing students with practical learning experiences that are inquiry-based and have real-world application.

Experiential or “hands-on” learning requires

cannot academically read or write, hands-on

provide opportunities to cook, use tools, and

students to think critically and engage with

exploration provides foundational knowledge

physically manipulate materials like shells,

the content of study. Through this process,

in all areas of content.

pinecones, counting bears, and pom-poms.

Children may be presented with a mirror

students learn to fail and try again, work collaboratively, apply knowledge to solve

Early childhood teachers are experts in

in which teachers will capture a child’s

challenges, and make emotional attachments

hands-on learning, but this approach is

understanding of feelings or they may be

to experiences. In classrooms where

necessary for all ages and all learning styles.

asked to listen to a “sounds” tape individually

experiential learning takes place, the teacher

The information students gain from hands-

with headphones and find the corresponding

no longer has a “stand and lecture” style but

on exploration cannot be replicated in any

sound on a bingo card and place a chip

rather a “guide by the side” approach, often

other way. While hands-on learning can

on that picture. Outdoor learning provides

allowing discoveries and knowledge to be

be “messy,” it isn’t exclusively reserved for

endless hands-on exploration, as well. Animal

gained by students and the teacher.

sensory exploration. Multi-sensory hands-on

tracking, categorizing leaves by shape and

learning experiences happen throughout the

color, gardening, and building in the sandbox

In the Children at Rectory (CARe) classrooms,

day in literacy, math, science, social/emotional

are a few ways CARe students learn outdoors.

children engage all their senses in each

learning, and kinesthetic experiences. When

experience, gaining knowledge of content

exploring a story, such as the Princess and

Simply put, children and people learn by

as they play. Experiences at CARe have very

the Pea, teachers recreate the narrative with

doing. With caring teachers to support,

few limitations placed on them. Children

dollhouse props so children can physically

guide, and extend a child’s hands-on play,

are allowed to paint their arms and hands

move the pieces and retell the fairy tale.

children’s learning is amplified to not just

to feel the texture of the paint. They can

Children’s favorite songs often have props,

doing but knowing.

taste the playdough we make (although it is

as well, promoting physical movement

extremely salty), and they can taste, touch,

memory to merge with language and

smell, and feel the “guts” of a pumpkin. In

music. Math exploration such as patterning,

a classroom where 99.9% of the students

counting, measuring, and comparison THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

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By creating environments where children are motivated to discover what they naturally do well, we promote challenges to achieve their personal best for learning now and in the future.

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

HANDS-ON LEARNING

elementary elementary school: engagement through experiential learning

by Maria Carpenter, Director of Elementary

At Rectory, we immerse elementary students in authentic experiences that inspire them to question, explore, and seek answers. Each child is unique and may learn differently than his or her peers. We encourage them to embrace their strengths while trying a variety of classroom tools to support experiences that challenge them and support their learning style.

with teachers and peers in environments

of rock & mineral books, while a collection of

that encourage the thought process. We

specimens are close by on a tray. Yet another

acknowledge each child’s uniqueness and

group may be gathered around a sensory

inspire each one to find and share their

table as they use a variety of measuring cups

passion for learning. By creating environments

to sort piles of sand, clay, and humus.

where children are motivated to discover what they naturally do well, we promote challenges

Our oldest elementary students in Grade 4

to achieve their personal best for learning

are learning how to advocate for themselves

now and in the future.

as they gain responsibility for their learning, and have leadership opportunities in the

As you walk into our classrooms, there is a

elementary community. Students may gather

buzz of activity as students interact with one

with a group of peers outside of the classroom

another and explore the thoughtfully planned

as they discuss their understanding of last

From a young age, children are curious about

activities that support learning. Students have

night’s assignment in their chapter book.

their environment and love exploring nature.

a balance of individual, small group, and large

Post-it notes, highlighters, and templates

We celebrate this curiosity by using science

group options to weave through each day.

are available to organize their thoughts and

themes to immerse students in their learning

prepare for a group conversation. Children

through academic and related arts content

In Grade K-1, there may be children using

may gather at a math center to deepen their

areas. Each term, our classroom teachers

noise-reducing headphones as they sit in pairs

understanding of fractions using pattern blocks

use these topics from an earth, physical, or

with a book in a shared reading experience.

or fraction tiles to explore the relationship

natural science perspective to explore with

Another group of children may be sorting

of parts to a whole. While others are using

the children using the scientific method. In

letters into words that were recently introduced

magnifying glasses and tweezers to pull apart

literacy, we choose read-aloud and chapter

by their teacher. A smaller group may be

an owl pellet as they sort and collect bones to

books to create a shared understanding

writing their own story using inventive

classify with print materials.

of conversations. In mathematics, we use

spelling that will accompany the picture that

numbers and measurements to compare size,

they created using colored pencils.

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weight, and length. We teach children that

Children have a wide variety of resources and tools available to them in our elementary

learning happens all around them. We strive

In Grade 2-3, children may be discovering

spaces. They all have access to think about

to give our students experiences with tools

properties of rocks and minerals by doing

the topics that our nurturing, experienced

and materials that are used in real life.

scratch tests to determine the hardness or

teachers present to them. We are a diverse

examining minerals under magnifying glasses

community with many views, creative ideas,

Our classrooms promote a culture of

to identify luster and color. Another group

and an appreciation for strong effort and

questioning and deep thinking, where

of children may be snuggled on bean bag

collaboration—where everyone’s ideas are

students learn from shared discussions

chairs in the library while exploring a variety

accepted and celebrated!

1. Invented spelling (also known as inventive spelling), as explained in Ouellette and Sénéchal’s recent study, published in the journal Developmental Psychology, refers to “children’s spontaneous or self-directed attempts to represent words in print.” Liana Loewus, May 5, 2017, “Invented Spelling Leads to Better Reading, Study Says,” Retrieved from: http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/ curriculum/2017/05/invented_spelling_leads_to_better_reading.html

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By using hands-on-learning activities and experiences that encourage critical thinking and personal connections, students create long-term memories and foster an excitement for history.

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THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

HANDS-ON LEARNING

Digging for Artifacts Encourages Critical Thinking

By Felicia Rodman & Jamie Haines, Middle School Faculty Members

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be an archaeologist and dig for artifacts and fossils? Would you survive as a hunter-and-gatherer or farmer? Students at Rectory engage with and are active participants in history. By using hands-on-learning activities and experiences that encourage critical thinking and personal connections, they create long-term memories and foster an excitement for history.

discovered an appreciation for the time and patience needed to complete digs in real life.

Students reflected on their experience, noting the difficulty of accurately interpreting what occurred at the village. Perhaps even more important, they discovered that the more we uncover, the more our histories change and that our interpretations of events may shift. They learn that perhaps there are still discoveries below our feet waiting to be found. For students to grasp that history is not set in stone but can change and shed light on new truths and understandings— even in modern times—is important in seeing

In the Early Global Studies class, Mrs.

history as not stagnant, but an ever-changing

Rodman tasks students with learning

story of humanity and their place within it.

about the world before the time of writing through the Age of Exploration. Throughout

In Mrs. Haines’ Geography class, students

the years, students have interacted with

learn about the elements of geography,

historical topics through designing their own

both physical and human, and apply their

civilization, taking virtual tours of significant

learning to various regions of the world.

sites such as the Lascaux caves and the Hagia

For 6th graders, regions like sub-Saharan

Sophia, and using primary sources to design

Africa or the Indian sub-continent can seem

a tombstone that reflects the impact of

remote and unimportant to their lives.

leaders like Charlemagne.

By using hands-on-learning activities to “experience” what others have experienced,

This past year, the Haffenreffer Museum

to “walk” in their shoes and “see” from their

of Anthropology Culture CaraVan Program

perspective, creates emotional connections

through Brown University offered Rectory

that help students see our world as a global

students an opportunity to learn the process

community and fosters a sense of ownership

by working in a mock Native American village

and responsibility for it and its people. Over

excavation site in the Hettinger Library. Each

the years, students have created their own

student was able to sit at different parts of

world and map, incorporating map skills and

the site. They learned how the area is broken

knowledge of landforms and water bodies;

down into grids, the care required in keeping

wrote a peace treaty for the Israeli-Palestinian

artifacts intact (or as much as possible),

conflict; and created a traditional meal from

how to use archaeological tools to uncover

a country they’ve never visited and feeding

artifacts, how to record where artifacts are

friends and family in our annual “Feast of

found, and how to piece together artifacts

the World” fair.

library enrichment series brings learning to the students The Library Enrichment Series first began in 2017 as a way for students to experience the hands-on exploration of an educational field trip on Rectory’s campus. Programs take place during enrichment time, thereby not disrupting academic classes. Students voluntarily sign up if they are interested in the topic, ensuring audience engagement.

We have had teachers from Mystic Aquarium present squid dissection and members from the New England Science and Sailing Foundation lead a shark dissection. Mystic Seaport taught students about rope making and how to use a sextant for navigation. We have had a rocket-building and launching class thanks to the Worcester Ecotarium and many programs from The Children’s Museum of West Hartford including live animal demonstrations, chemistry experiments, an electricity demonstration, and experiments involving liquid nitrogen, combustion, and sound. Last spring, we also had an all-school program which was held in the amphitheater and on the soccer field below demonstrating the flight and sound of birds of prey, featuring the exciting flight and hunting capability of a falcon!

Presenters have commented that they love to come to Rectory as our groups are highly engaged. This year, we are working on a program that revolves around an environmental theme.

(like pottery). Within this activity, students

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songwriting @ rectory

By Maria Sangiolo, Middle School Faculty For the past two years, I have had the great pleasure of teaching a songwriting elective to some very smart and creative young people at Rectory School. Some of them had no musical skills and some played guitar, bass guitar, and even created electronic music on their Chromebook.

Rectory’s upcoming Centennial. The kids had

home away from home. 100 years, here in

to dig deep for information and inspiration.

Pomfret.” The hip-hop song was written by

They researched Rectory’s history with the

Karl Maybank Burgdorf ‘19, Ethan G. ‘20,

help of Lisa Levesque. They interviewed

Mimi N. ‘22, Livie C. ‘22, and the musically

Mr. Williams and former teachers, and as

gifted Alvaro A. ‘22. The melancholy ballad

a result, they came up with two different

was penned by Alonso Sanchez ‘19, Ava

songs that tell two different stories and

S. ‘22, Chloe W. ‘22, and Clement W. ‘22,

express different emotions.

with assistance by me and Jessy white.

The elective focuses on writing new lyrics

The “The Headmasters’ Song,” chronicles

summer and they will be used in Rectory’s

and matching original lyrics to an existing

all five headmasters and their unique ways

Centennial celebrations in the coming year!

melody, be it pop, folk, country, hip hop, or

of leading and forming the lives of Rectory

I look forward to teaching another fun

good old rock and roll. It teaches students

students. In a hip-hop-rapping style, a verse

songwriting elective later this year.

about higher-order thinking and using original

goes, “This is the headmaster’s song, five

sources to write a lyrical story in song.

headmasters in 100 years!” In a contrasting

I recorded the songs professionally this

country song set to a John Denver ballad,

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Last year, the class was tasked with writing

the sweet “100 Years” song features these

two different songs to help celebrate

lyrics: “Rectory is a century, Rectory is our

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

HANDS-ON LEARNING

Working with Wood & Building Bridges

By Josiah Fuller, Middle School Faculty Woodshop is an excellent opportunity for students to increase their interest in fine arts into a new medium.

Shop classes used to be a staple of education in most schools until the 1990s when schools cut back on arts funding. With the recent resurgence in interest at the hobby level in woodworking, the industry has seen a significant comeback.

small fix around their house or as complex

a team is incredibly important. Students

as becoming a professional woodworker or

work in small groups (usually 2-4 students)

artist, the skills they learn in this class will set

to collaborate and design and build a

a strong foundation for the trade. The ability

working bridge model. Their models are

to create something with your hands is a

later tested to determine how much weight

cathartic and satisfying experience.

they can bear. Students are graded solely on their participation, work effort, and

Since its reintroduction to Rectory last year

communication skills. This project helps

following a 25-year hiatus, student interest

demonstrate that STEM projects are not just

in the program has been strong. Last year,

about the end result, but more importantly,

more than 40 students participated in the

how they got there. Science and engineering

introductory program. With the addition

is all about learning from mistakes and

The increased interest gave us the opportunity

this year of Woodshop II for 9th graders, we

failures, and turning those into success.

to provide students with the hands-on

anticipate nearly doubling that number.

opportunity to learn how to design, plan, and build projects, building a skill that can

Bridge building gives students the

help them later in life. Whether the interest

opportunity to understand why group work

leads to something as simple as doing a

and developing the ability to work well in

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Class of 2019

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COMMENCEMENT 2019

Don’t wait to be great Excerpted from Fred Williams’ Welcome Speech at Rectory’s 98th graduation ceremony.

The leadership and compassion demonstrated by the 9th-grade class have so much to do with the success of a school year. With their peers following the Class of 2019’s lead, it was a very successful year, for they are an extremely accomplished class. They are also an entertaining one, another draw to working with this age group.

Case in point, at a dinner a few weeks before graduation, I was speaking with Maybank Burgdorf, one of our ninth graders, when, imagine this, a mini-debate arose. Before going any further, let me say that I am a huge fan of this young man; although, he couldn’t be more of a contrarian. You say up, he says down; you say left, he says right; you say hot, he says cold. No matter your point or position, he always responds with the counterpoint or opposing position.

I don’t remember precisely what topic we were sparring over this particular evening, but after another failed attempt to win an argument with this young man, despite my incredibly compelling and convincing points, I told him how much I looked forward to his return to Rectory 20 years from now. It would be well worth that wait, I shared with Maybank, to see him back on campus with his children in tow so that I could see the tables turned. Now he would face the onslaught of empowered youngsters relentlessly attacking with strongly held convictions—and quasi-accurate information. To this, Maybank responded, “Children. I’m not going to have children. They might turn out just like me.” Maybank, I hope you do have children, and I hope they turn out exactly like you for all the best of reasons.

I share this story, graduates, because Maybank’s comment revealed that despite his strongly held convictions, his future—like all of yours— holds more unknowns than knowns. Think about how many firmly entrenched views you have already flipped on: girls (or boys) have cooties; I hate math; I’m never going to boarding school; or in Alex Kang’s case, I’ll never survive a week in the desert without flush toilets and my phone. Your views will surely change as your understanding of yourselves, and the world around you, grows.

As this process unfolds, it is important that you realize you are entering a stage in your life where the stakes surrounding your decisions take on greater and greater significance. Like Maybank, you should all have visions of the future. The choices you make, the effort you apply, the persistence you demonstrate, the resilience you exhibit, and the wisdom you continue to develop will serve to bring this future sharply into focus, or in many cases completely change the life you envision. This process, which has already begun, now proceeds at an even more rapid rate as the next decade will have a huge impact on your futures.

Graduates, as you know, Rectory implements a curriculum that comprises brain-based learning strategies because if the brain is not engaged, learning will not occur. The more areas of the brain involved in the process, the better. So, inspired by Mrs. Billiard, I offer one last lesson to you. To assure this primary point is not lost, please stand and join me as we combine a choral response with an action, thus activating both the occipital and temporal lobes and causing a slew of neurons to fire in the process. So here goes: Don’t wait to be great!

Don’t wait to be great! Don’t wait to be great!

The ensuing years, graduates, will be so important in defining and pursuing the lives you seek, and the speed at which you travel on this journey will only intensify. The poet Edwin Markham said, “Choices are the hinges of our destiny.” I hope that you rely on all you have learned and experienced at Rectory when considering these choices and that you strive for greatness in the decisions you make now and into the future. I am already looking forward to the conversations we will have when we cross paths in the future. I know each of you will have much to share.

Congratulations, class of 2019, on all you have accomplished and all that awaits in your efforts to be great.

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COMMENCEMENT 2019

graduation day awards

The Mabel B. Bigelow Memorial Cup: Isabella Wei

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: Samir MCElroy

Presented to a male member of 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 the truth; to win without pride, to lose without racor; to have courage, and to be kind. This is a goal for the greatest: It is a goal that the least may reach. To teach this is the whole purpose of schools. To know this is the whole meaning of life.”

The Mr. and Mrs. John Character Cup: Misaki Yokoyama

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 RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

The Thomas B. Harrison Cup: Emma Hayden

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: Sasha Becker

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

The John Frazar Austin Cup: Maybank Burgdorf

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: Olivia Chima

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.

(LEFT) Misaki Yokoyama with her family.

(RIGHT) Samir McElroy.

The Adam B. Silver Scholar-Athlete Cup: Gabe Fitzgerald

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: Chris Kim

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 Goodridge-Barber Academic Cup: Albert Dai

Presented to Father Bigelow in 1927 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: Natalie Perkins

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.”

COMMENCEMENT 2019

class of 2019 matriculation Avon Old Farms School Barrington High School Berkshire School Blair Academy Blue Ridge School Brooks School Canterbury School Choate Rosemary Hall Cushing Academy Deerfield Academy Emma Willard School Episcopal High School Gunnery School Hill School Hotchkiss School Kent School Lawrenceville School Loomis Chaffee School Marianapolis Prep School Millbrook School Miss Porter’s School New Hampton School Noble & Greenough School Oldfields School Pomfret School Providence Country Day School St. Andrew’s School St. George’s School St. Mark’s School St. Paul’s School Stevenson School Stuart Country Day School Suffield Academy Tabor Academy Taft School Vermont Academy Westtown School

(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) Ninth-grade members of Recappella; Justin F. ’20 and Samir McElroy; John Seaward ‘02 and Emilia Gutierrez Pinto; Summer Jin and Franco Diaz Araiza; Sasha Becker.

Woodstock Academy

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

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

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FROM THE ARCHIVES

tom succop’s ’50 tea dance card:

My card is full!

By Lisa Levesque, Archivist

In June 1948, Headmaster John Bigelow (Mr. John) announced that ballroom dancing instruction would be offered as an elective in the following winter term (January 1949) and that Mrs. Faith Chapdelaine, a member of the Association of Dancing Masters, had been secured to lead the 12-week session.

“Emphasis will be placed on a thorough mastery of the waltz and foxtrot, but it is also planned that the older boys will learn the currently most popular dance step, while the younger ones will learn the polka.” 1 Amongst those boys who signed up for the lessons was twelve-year-old, Tom Succop ’50. Perhaps his mother signed Tom up for the lessons, or perhaps Tommy was drawn to the excitement that Mrs. Chapdelaine “plans to provide a few girls from her other classes as partners for the Rectory boys.” 2 Indeed, soon after the classes had started, Mr. John remarked, “Mrs. Chapdelaine’s Monday afternoon dancing classes have grown in popularity during the term. The importation of numerous girls from her other classes to act as partners for the Rectory boys has done nothing to diminish our students’ enthusiasm. Apparently the majority of young boys today do not in the least feel toward the opposite sex as did most of my contemporaries and I at a like age. We, if my memory is at all accurate, regarded girls as a race apart…[and] to be avoided whenever possible.” 3 Cocoa and cookies were provided after each class by Mrs. Bond and Miss Jones (see trivia questions on page 18). The series of lessons culminated in a spring Tea Dance hosted

by Mrs. Chapdelaine and Mrs. John Bigelow.

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With special thanks to Mr. Succop, by way of his donation to the Rectory Archives of a dance card with a small attached pencil, we have a glimpse into that Friday evening of May 6, 1949. Miss Sue Nelson was the lucky young lady who engaged three dances with Tommy that evening. During the program, which was scheduled from 7:00-9:00 p.m., the boys and girls tripped the light fantastic across the dance room floor with foxtrots, waltzes, and polka.

Kenneth Rawley’s Orchestra, from Putnam, CT, provided the music.

In addition to describing the music as lively, a Rectory News article 4

by David Hubby ’50 fills out the scene with spring flowers, bright dresses, and a gay atmosphere (see sidebar).

Perhaps you remember Rectory’s tea dances from the 1950s or the Halloween parties in the 1970s; how about Mr. DiPaolo’s Rock Band from the 1990s. We would love to add your memories to the collage of Rectory stories we are building from your experiences and artifacts.

1) The Rectory News, June 5, 1948; 2) The Rectory News, June 5, 1948; 3) The Rectory News, February 25, 1949; 4) The Rectory News, June 4, 1949

THE TEA DANCE

By David Hubby The Rectory News June 6, 1949:

Friday night, May 6, 1949, we had our last dance.

That night the atmosphere was gay with the spring flowers Mrs. Bond gathered, with girls’ bright dresses, and with the lively music played by the orchestra from Putnam. Our hosts and hostesses were Mrs. Chapdelaine, Mr. and Mrs. John, and Mr. Brooks. Mrs. Chapdelaine and Mrs. Bond made out programs, showing with whom we were to have each dance. The whole affair lasted two and one half hours. We had three foxtrots and two waltzes before the intermission. During the intermission, we had punch and candy. After we had punch we started in with a foxtrot. Then we had one other foxtrot and two waltzes and a polka.

During the polka two of the boys tripped and fell down. Even though it was a very hot night, we all had a lot of fun. After the dance, we went to bed late, tired, but happy.

TOP ROW: Thomas Succop (3rd from left); David Hubby (5th from left).

REMINISCE WITH US! We would love to add your memories and artifacts to our archives. contact lisa levesque at archives@rectoryschool.org.

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CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

Rectory School Turns 100 in 2020!

in the words of co-founder and headmistress Mabel Bigelow, written in 1936:

The Rev. Frank H. Bigelow and I for years cherished the ideal of founding a school...for young boys in our home, where we could offer the advantages of home life, religious training, and the best education opportunities and preparation for the good college-preparatory schools...We felt that with our love for children and intense desire to help them, we could start such a school and make it a place where boys would be happy. Our ideals were always to work with the individual boy that he might become better adjusted emotionally and educationally.

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Trivia (Answers on opposite page) 1) What did Mrs. Bond teach?

2) What roles did Miss Jones have at Rectory?

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

WHAT’S IN YOUR ATTIC?

We hope to see you on campus during our Centennial Year, 2020-2021 for a visit or join us at one of the following events:

Don’t throw it out...contribute to the Rectory Archives!

Fall family weekend October 16-17, 2020

photographs

spring family weekend & alumni day april 23-24, 2021

centennial gala celebration april 24, 2021 graduation (centennial year class) june 12, 2021

mementos

scrapbooks copies of The rectory news letters/postcards home sports items lesson books award ribbons & trophies ephemera

plus: World-wide Receptions; Flashback Friday

Assemblies; Centennial Prism Concert; and more! share your memories!

artists & authors Calling all artists and authors! We would like your participation in an Alumni Art Show. In addition to art submissions we are looking for authors to submit their books to display or for donation to the Archives.

Help us put together a Centennial Memory Book of stories, memories, and photographs from across Rectory’s 100 years.

how to contact us: Lisa Levesque,

become a sponsor!

We also are looking for sponsors for the following: Centennial banners; Fireworks; Gala Band; Mother Bigelow portrait; Historic markers; and more.

Archivist at rectory school: P.O. Box 68, Pomfret, CT 06258 860-963-6740 ext. 314 centennial@rectoryschool.org

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Trivia answers: 1) Mrs. Bond taught arithmetic and spelling in the elementary department. 2) Over her many years at Rectory, Miss Gertrude Jones was Assistant to Headmistress (Mabel Bigelow), dietician, and housemother. Her portrait used to hang in the old Dining Hall, now the Wolf Den.

mark your calendars!

www.rectoryschool.org /centennial

be a part of this historic year...

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AROUND CAMPUS

campus recap Rectory’s annual activities and events include the first-day-of-school field day, black and orange days, Halloween festivities, the Heart-y Party, MLK Day of Service, the spring musical, recycled regatta, MELP, and sending chapel. There were many memorable moments this year.

(BELOW) Sending Chapel: Rectory’s Chaplain, True Bryant, and Director of the Arts, Donna Bessette, wove music, 9th-grade and departing faculty speeches into the hour-long service held in the Pomfret School Clark Chapel.

(ABOVE) Spooktacular Day: Halloween at Rectory is always a great day and members of the class of 2022 embrace it with enthusiasm.

(BELOW) Regatta on Rectory Pond: This seafaring group is ready to float across the pond in their recycled masterpiece.

(ABOVE) The Party with Heart: Our Heart-y-Party is an annual December tradition for the middle school. With a theme of giving, the School community collects donations for local children in need. During the party, students pack bags to include for donation, enjoy lots of homemade foods, dress up in our photo booth, and play board games with faculty.

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9th-Grade Tile Project Headmaster Fred Williams launched a new 9th-grade project this year with the help of our art teachers Mrs. Lisa Gould and Miss Judy Blakelock. The first examples have been framed and are hanging on the newly refurbished third floor of the academic building.

AROUND CAMPUS

(LEFT) A group of Rectory Mexican students with Ms. Grande on MLK Day. From left: Emilia Gutierrez Pinto ’19, Ximena P. ’20, Aitana G. ’20, Isabel H. ’20, Reyna Grande, Santiago Olazabal ’19, and Headmaster Fred Williams. (RIGHT) Kellogg Awards: Mario Hurtado, left, with Headmaster Fred Williams, and Catherine Bastow.

10th Annual Mlk Day of Service On Monday, January 21, 2019, Rectory School held its tenth-annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service.

Elementary students worked on three service projects: a piece of art to share with the Rectory community; knot blankets for TEEG (Thompson Ecumenical Empowerment Group); and snack mix that was sold to benefit the Temple Grandin/ Eustacia Cutler Autism Fund and the Pomfret Power Packs Project.

Despite being one of the coldest day of the winter, our middle school students went to more than 30 different locations including the Pomfret Audubon Society and Pomfret Fire Department; the Brookside Rehab and

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Nursing Center, Brookdale; Covenant Soup Kitchen; Hale YMCA; Crossfit Aspinock; Pomfret School; Most Holy Trinity Church; and Christ Church. There were also several on-campus activities including moving archival materials and creating a mural in the Art Barn. Thanks to Rectory Parents’ Association (RPA), students in Grades 5-9 were treated to a talk by Ms. Reyna Grande.

Ms. Grande is the award-winning author of The Distance Between Us, a memoir of her life in Mexico and her illegal immigration into the United States as a child.

Kellogg Awards Established in 1993 to recognize faculty and staff who have demonstrated excellence and commitment to Rectory School, this past spring the Kellogg Award was awarded to two Rectory employees:

The first award winner, Mrs. Catherine Bastow (Related Arts, MELP Coordinator, and Travel Coordinator) is relentless in her efforts to lead the faculty in creating a safe, educational, and incredibly enjoyable experience for our students. She asks a lot of the staff in the process, but expects even more of herself.

Our second award winner, Mr. Mario Hurtado (Director of Buildings and Grounds), arrived at Rectory in 2011 and since that time he has been a part of transforming all aspects of the Rectory campus.

to read the award speeches, visit: www.rectoryschool.org/ FACawards

ATHLETICS

athletics: inspiring a lifelong commitment to fitness and health

By Courtney Callanan, Assistant Athletic Director

At Rectory, athletics is a part of the everyday life of a middle school student. The athletic philosophy is to inspire a lifelong commitment to physical fitness and health. Through the program, coaches promote risk-taking, self-confidence, skill development, teamwork, individual success, and sportsmanship.

With this foundation, Rectory has built a program that offers competitive varsity teams for experienced athletes and developmental levels to encourage beginners. Wherever students may be in their athletic ability, the different levels provided allows students to feel comfortable and confident when they play.

Aside from creating a healthy habit of daily exercise, student-athletes benefit from playing sports at Rectory in several other ways. At a young age, students compete against other schools which helps them learn how to win with humility and lose with dignity. At the very core of it, all students have the opportunity to meet new friends from different cultures all around the world and understand how

to communicate and be respectful teammates to one another. From this powerful dynamic, students will learn valuable social skills in a setting other than the classroom.

Most importantly, students find support and guidance during their athletic experience at Rectory from their coaches. Our coaching staff is committed to teaching the skills of the game so students can translate them into the skills of life.

Our coaches are also teachers, advisors, tutors, or dorm parents, resulting in stronger bonds and the development of trusting relationships.

Rectory’s coaching staff is committed to creating a community where students can be comfortable confiding in them and where they can continue to grow as athletes.

The primary goal of Rectory School athletics is to provide a positive athletic experience that students will remember and develop for the rest of their lives.

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ATHLETICS

A YEAR IN SPORTS

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

Boys Varsity Lacrosse, Equestrian, Fall Adventures, Varsity Hockey, Boys Varsity Basketball, Girls Varsity Soccer

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ATHLETICS

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

Girls Varsity Volleyball, Crossfit, Swim Team, JV Hockey, Cross Country, Squash

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ALUMNI EVENTS

alumni events new york CITY RECEPTION

This past November, alumni, parents of past and current students, and friends joined Headmaster Fred Williams, Marcia Williams, Freddy Nagle P’20, Lesley Gibbs P’15 P’17, and Lisa Walsh ’84 in New York City at Grey Lady. Everyone gathered for a wonderful night of catching up, comparing stories, and sharing memories from their time at Rectory. Thank you again to Gavin McLaughlin, Class of 1993, for the incredible hospitality.

2018 New York Reception southern connecticut RECEPTION

Sheila Clancy, the mother of Conor ’20, kindly hosted an event for Rectory in her home in Southport, Connecticut this past March. We had a great gathering of alumni, current parents, and parents of alumni. The evening was filled with conversation and plenty of delicious treats.

korea RECEPTION

This summer, Water Cho ’91, Sunghye Lee ’09, and Min Jae Yoo ’09 hosted an alumni event for Rectory in Seoul Korea. Fred Williams and Braden Long both attended and were able to catch up with over twenty Korean alumni and current students.

March 2019 Southern Connecticut Reception

Summer 2019 Korea Reception alumni weekend

In April at our Alumni Weekend, we celebrated reunions for the classes of 1944, 1969, 1984, 1994, and 2009. Headmaster Fred Williams presented awards to five alumni at the Annual Alumni Dinner.

Members of Lewis Smith's Family were in attendance to accept his award.

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Members of reunion classes enjoyed reminiscing about their time at Rectory.

ALUMNI EVENTS

alumni awards Distinguished Service Award

This award is to be presented to an alumnus/ae, faculty or staff member (past or present), or friend of Rectory who has demonstrated outstanding characteristics and compassionate qualities in their communities, professions, and philanthropic endeavors. The person to receive this award lives the Rectory School Creed: Responsibility, Respect, Honesty, and Compassion.

Rectory School’s Athletic Wall of Honor

This award is presented to people whose contributions and accomplishments have brought prestige and honor to Rectory School and its athletic program. Recipients are individuals of outstanding quality, high moral character, and fine leadership qualities and are held in high esteem by their colleagues, coaches, and athletes.

ABOVE: Kevin Tang ’82 and his father, Oscar Tang ’53 received the Distinguished Service Award.

Headmaster Williams said of the two, “Oscar and Kevin Tang receive Rectory’s Distinguished Service Award because Rectory is interested in good men who are willing to pay the price for excellence. We recognize them for all they have done for so many, particularly in the area of academia. We are forever grateful for what you have allowed and inspired our school to do and it is with heartfelt appreciation we recognize Oscar and Kevin Tang as Rectory’s Distinguished Service Award recipients.”

BELOW: Min Jae Yoo ’09, recipient of the Emerging Leader Award, serves as a public policy specialist with Merck.

Rectory School Emerging Leader Award

This Award is presented to a Rectory alumnus who is in the first five years of his or her career and has demonstrated inspiring leadership qualities, entrepreneurship, innovation, and community involvement across their academic and professional lives.

ABOVE (left): Lewis Smith ’71 was posthumously inducted onto the Rectory School Athletic Wall of Honor. Here Fred Williams stands with Lewis’ wife, Andrea, and brother, Hank Smith ’76.

ABOVE (right): Genevieve Richardson ‘96, also inducted onto the Rectory School Athletic Wall of Honor, was a standout athlete at Rectory School. Her accomplishments at Rectory are noteworthy, not because she earned them as a girl, but because she earned them as one of Rectory’s greatest athletes ever.

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ALUMNI

alumni notes 1940s class of 1945: 75th reunion 1950s BLAIR BIGELOW ’52 Blair reports, “Meredith and I moved in February 2019 to Wake Robin, a CCRC in Shelburne, VT. Since I’m now eighty-one, I figure I am on third base in the baseball game of life. Wake Robin is a great place; if interested or curious, check its website. The sad news is that my brother Jack (Rectory 1950) died last fall, October 2018.”

1960s CLAUDIA ABBOTT ’60 Claudia reports, “My husband and I are keeping busy in retirement. We recently enjoyed a weekend visit from my former student, Jordan Brandon ‘14, and enjoyed showing him the many changes on Rectory’s campus. In mid-October, my classmate from 1960, Alan Forsyth, flew out to experience New England in the fall and to visit campus and several athletic events.”

Claudia Abbott ’60 and Jordan Brandon ’14.

SANTA CLAUS ’61 Blair Bigelow ’52.

ANTHONY J. WOODWORTH ’52 Anthony reports, “I am living the retired life with my wife of 58 years. We have three children and seven grandchildren who visit on occasion.”

Santa Claus reports, “I am currently a Child Advocate & Clergyman. Formerly, I was a Councilman for the City of North Pole, AK. I am the President of the North Pole Community Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Alaska Public Broadcasting Commission.”

PUNCH SMITH ’56 Punch reports, “My wife of 55 years and I are enjoying our blessed life here in Charleston, SC. We get to see our first great-grandchild, Norah (three months) weekly. I finally retired ten years ago, and it has been 50 years since I left active duty with the Marines after duty in Vietnam and Parris Island. All three daughters live within 2 miles of us, with four grandchildren. I am looking forward to attending Rectory’s 100th next year. I have always appreciated the jump start I received from my Rectory experience. Gratefully, Punch”

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Santa Claus ’61.

ROBERT MORGAN ’69 Robert reports, “I am an Offensive Coordinator at Citrus College.”

KEVIN M. CORRIGAN ’69 Kevin reports, “I am retiring in December 2019 after almost 50 years in various parts of the Food Business. Throughout high school, college (American University), and later, I worked as a chef in Washington, DC, where I met my wife, Peggy (Ferguson), a Rectory ’76 graduate. To our knowledge, we were the first Rectory grads to tie the knot together.

We have been married for 32 years and have a son, Sam (22). We live in Granville, OH and hope to move to MidCoast Maine in the near future. I left the kitchen and got into the sales side of food in 1986 as a Food Broker in the Mid Atlantic. I worked with Sysco in Baltimore, then moved on to sales management positions for three different U.S. food manufacturers. I have been with a subsidiary of Hormel Foods for 23 years, managing our sales in 1/4 of the U.S. Thanks to my two years of Latin at Rectory, I have been successful at crossword puzzles.”

RICK JACKMAN ’69 Rick reports, “I am retired and staying active with my nine grandchildren.”

1970s class of 1970: 50th reunion DONALD HART III ’70 Donald reports that he is currently recovering from knee replacement surgery after suffering from a torn meniscus. His kids are all grown.

His youngest grandchild just graduated from high school. He has two great-grandchildren, a grandson (5 years) and a granddaughter (6 months). His youngest son is getting married soon while his third son is pursuing his second Masters in Business Administration.

He is happily retired and is celebrating 22 years of marriage with his wife.

JEFF BYRON ’70 Jeff reports, “After more than 36 years in Washington, DC, Stephanie and I moved to Asheville, NC in 2012. Stephanie is responsible for promoting Asheville as a tourist

ALUMNI

destination. I’m mostly retired but still work... without pay. I have two children,Virginia, a pediatrician in New Orleans and Jamie, an entrepreneur who recently relocated to Maryland from Cambridge, MA. My step-daughter, Olivia, is a 4th former at The Asheville School. It would be great to connect with classmates if you’re in the area.”

MICHAEL MCADAM ’75 Michael reports, “I married Jody Pelfrey McAdam on February 18, 2017.”

JAMES APRAD ’71 James reports, “I am happy and busy in real estate management and development, and raising my two little boys.” He is married to Elizabeth Woltzen. They have two boys Ethan (9) and Owen (7).

1980s FEDERICO PRINCE ’82 Federico reports, “I have been the CEO of a small Pharma company here in Mexico for almost five years. It has been a great challenge and always a privilege to lead the folks that work at Laboratorios Kener. Family wise, my four kids keep growing, and the joys of parenthood are always present. Except for my wife, they are the best thing that has happened to me in life.”

Michael McAdam ’75.

PEGGY (FERGUSON) CORRIGAN ’76

James Aprad ’71 with his sons.

DOUGLAS COHEN ’72 Douglas reports, “I’ve been a composerlyricist working in NYC for the last 35 years.

My 14th musical, The Evolution of Mann, is now an original cast recording on Amazon, iTunes, and other streaming platforms.

It has also just been published by Samuel French. I’m beginning my 8th year teaching at the Neighborhood Playhouse and fondly remember my teachers at Rectory.”

Peggy is a freelance graphic designer. After Rectory, she went on to St. Paul’s School in Concord, NH, then Connecticut College. Her years of pond skating in CT and NH instilled a life-long love of ice hockey, and she plays on a women’s recreational league. She is also an avid horsewoman. Peggy is married to fellow Rectory alumnus, Kevin M. Corrigan ‘69.

KEELEY CURTIS KRISKEY ’77 Keeley reports, “I am still healthy, still married, and still own Financial Sense LLC, a Daily Money Management company. My daughter joined my company nearly five years ago. If all goes well, I will continue to work into my 70s, though hopefully less.

We are so fortunate to live close to our two children and their families and have Sunday dinners together. We currently have three grandchildren and are expecting three more within the next seven months. Life is good. I hope my old Rectory friends are doing well!”

Frederico Prince ’82 and his family.

MAC BRUTON ’82 Mac reports, “Rectory is a really special place and was instrumental to my development.

It is hard to describe the positive influence the school had on me. Most importantly, however, it instilled a sense of confidence in me that I have to this day.”

DAVID BUCHANNAN ‘83 David reports, “I am doing very well.

Living in Wake County, NC, working as a landscaper for a town. I would love to hear from some classmates.”

MICHAEL DANFORTH ’78

Douglas Cohen ‘72.

Michael reports, “I have been in the media business for some 25-30 years. Currently, I own my own business for financial media and own three Coastal Angler Magazine franchises in Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Long Island. I have three children all through college, except one. He graduates in December from the University of Lynchburg.”

David Buchannan ’83.

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ALUMNI

LISA WALSH ’84 Lisa was proud to celebrate her daughter Sophia’s graduation from The Woodstock Academy in June. Sophia is heading to Drew University and will be a member of their Division III Fencing Team. Lisa and Sophia traveled to Columbus, OH in July for the Summer Nationals (for fencing). In April, Lisa enjoyed catching up with a few of her Rectory classmates at their 35th Reunion over Alumni Weekend.

class of 1985: 35th reunion ROB GERDSEN ’86 Rob reports, “I continue to teach biology and marine biology at Blair Academy in New Jersey and love seeing Rectory graduates come our way!”

1990s HUNTLEY RITTER ’93 Huntley reports, “I have been busy with our marketing agency, Stafford, focused on digital advertising, e-commerce, and our marketing technology platform, USeek. I was on Yahoo Finance and in Forbes recently.

class of 1995: 25th reunion Lisa, far right, with her daughter Sophia and boyfriend, Josh Nelson.

PENRY PRICE ’84 Penry reports “I am happily living in Greenwich, CT and working in NYC at LinkedIn, though I find myself on planes quite often. My wife, Melissa, has put her interior designer career on hold to give as much as possible to the raising of our two kids. Our son is a rising college sophomore, and our daughter will be a senior in high school this fall. It is hard to believe that I graduated from Rectory 35 years ago; it just doesn’t seem possible that that much time has passed. I am still trying to be active in any sport I can find time for and am a passionate fan of the New England sports teams—what a run, huh? Wishing the best to all of my 1984 classmates and good luck as we all hit the 50-year-old milestone!”

Katrina Kucher ’01.

JOHN SEAWARD ’02 John reports, “I spent some time down in GA with the recently retired Mr. and Mrs. Seaward who are enjoying their well-deserved free time.”

NATHAN FORD ’96 Nathan reports, “I am enjoying life. I am married to a wonderful partner, Jenna. I’ve been at UPS for 18+ years and have two great boys, Chase who is four and Hundson who was just born in May.”

John Seaward ’02.

WYATT JEFFERS ’03

Hundson and Chase Ford, sons of Nathan Ford ’96.

2000s

Wyatt reports, “I have been Pro Surfing since 2017. I am surfing two events, one in Virginia Beach and the other a week after in North Carolina on the WSL (World Surf League) WQS (World Qualifying Series) surf tour at the end of August.”

ANDREW ZAWACKI ’00 Andrew reports, “My wife, Diana, and I welcomed our first child on Tuesday, July 2, 2019.

Our son is named Landon Thomas Zawacki.

Mom and Landon are happy and healthy! We currently live in Orange County, CA.”

KATRINA KUCHER ’01

Penry Price ’84.

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Katrina reports, “I got married in 2019 and am currently living in North Carolina working as the North America Environmental Coordinator for Volvo Group Trucks.”

Wyatt Jeffers ’03.

ALUMNI

ANDREW HORVATH ’04

MICHAEL BOGDASARIAN ’04

ALEX BENTON ’07

Andrew reports, “I now live in Bozeman, MT. I work for World Wildlife Fund’s Northern Great Plains Program. The area we work in spans across five states and two Canadian provinces. We are trying to conserve intact grassland habitat that provides habitat to many ungulate species and grassland birds.

It’s a lot of fun, and I get to do it in a beautiful part of the world!”

Michael reports, “I am currently a 2nd Class Petty Officer electrician’s mate in the US Coast Guard. I am stationed in Ketchikan, AK, on the WLM 175 buoy tender Anthony Petit. It’s absolutely gorgeous out here. Perfect for the outdoorsy types. My favorite part is the camaraderie with my ship mates, either in tough times or good times. It’s like having a second family. The thing that drew me to the Coast Guard was a solid career where I could learn skills for the outside world.”

Alex reports, “I just started a new job as a Project Manager at a tech company in the seaport in Boston called SessionM. Rectory is the place where I really started enjoying learning, and the staff is one of the biggest reasons for that.”

VICENTE CAJIGA ’04 Vicente reports, “Life is going well. After becoming a professional skydiver and base jumper for the last 11 years, I’m now working in a fueling infrastructure startup in Mexico City, and recently moved to Denver.”

FRANK WEST ’08 Frank reports, “On June 15, I married the love of my life, Danielle, in Christiansburg, VA. Danielle is a preschool special education teacher, and I work at my alma mater, Radford University, in the alumni relations department. I hope to get back to Rectory soon for a visit!”

Frank West ‘08 with his wife, Danielle, on their wedding day.

Vicente Cajiga ’04.

DANIEL DINOV ’04 Daniel reports, “Recently returned from a successful tour in Spain, promoting my new album, High Life! I co-founded a record label, Greenpoint Records, and in August I will be the resident guest DJ on-board the Norwegian Bliss cruise line, sailing to Alaska.”

HANNAH (SMITH) STEWART ’08 Michael Bogdasarian ‘04 (third from left) with his ship mates aboard the WLM 175 buoy tender Anthony Petit (pictured above).

MILES COLLINS ’04 Miles Collins reports, “I have a new job: president and COO of Pacific Fertility Centers of Los Angeles.”

BEN DREXLER ’05 Ben reports, “I just moved to Atlanta and am loving my job at Zoom Video Communications. Getting married in October to the beautiful, kind, and compassionate Annelise Fry.”

Hannah reports, “I am starting my third full school year working at Rectory School in the technology department. I live on campus with my wonderful husband, Stephen, and our two awesome dogs. On February 19, 2019, we welcomed our beautiful baby girl, Teagan Eleanor, into the world! My year has been full of new adventures. We are so lucky to have our village here at Rectory helping us raise our amazing daughter.”

ANDREW GLEASON ’06

Daniel Dinov ’04.

Andrew reports, “I’m attending graduate school at UT Austin this fall where I’ll be pursuing my masters in computer science.

I’m doing that part-time while I am also about to start a new job as a software engineer at Salesforce.”

Teagan Eleanor Stewart, daughter of Hannah (Smith) Stewart ’09.

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ALUMNI

MIN JAE YOO ’09 Min Jae reports, “I represented and led Team Korea as one of the captains at the 2019 Asia Pacific Lacrosse Championship in July. We finished in 3rd place and won the first ever medal in Korea lacrosse’s history. I marked one full year at Merck & Co (MSD Korea) as a Public Policy Specialist on August 1, 2019.

2010s class of 2010: 10th reunion

MARGARET (MEG) VIRGINIA RITZAU ’16 ZACHARY RICHARD PAIGE ’16

MATTHIAS HEMPHILL ’10 Matthias reports, “I am moving to Chicago in the near future to study improv comedy.”

DAN MURPHY ’10 Dan reports, “I’m entering my second year at Georgetown University Law Center.”

JORGE PORTILLA ’10 Jorge reports, “I graduated last December from a BS International Relations program at the Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México.

Currently working in a local consulting firm that specializes in energy in Mexico City.”

JACKSON LARRABEE ’11 Jackson reports, “As my undergraduate education concluded, I thought back to how far I’ve come and realized the impact Rectory faculty, teachers, coaches, and community had on me. The small and tightknit community, as a whole, helped to give me a grasp of the giant and wonderful world we live in. Rectory honed and influenced my leadership skills, my desire for travel, everlasting drive, and love of education.” He also reports that he is a Superintendent at Federal Marine Terminals, where he manages the union labor, loading operations, and logistics for loading a cargo ship.

Jackson Larrabee ’11.

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rectory alumni take home awards from the woodstock academy

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ALUMNI PROFILES

Electricity filled the air at The Woodstock Academy on June 14 and 15, 2019 for graduation and class night when two Rectory School graduates from the class of 2016 took home copious awards. Margaret (Meg) Virginia Ritzau was Valedictorian for her class, and she and Zachary Richard Paige were both awarded the Yale Honor Cup. Both were summa cum laude, and they both won Donald and Hope Williams Scholarships on class night. The Donald and Hope Williams Scholarships are awarded to students who have exhibited outstanding academic achievement, demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a willingness to accept challenges, and are active participants in The Academy community through service to others, and as leaders.

Meg Ritzau also won the Abraham and Evelyn Rodensky Memorial Award for Excellence in Writing; the Louise P. Jordan Memorial Award for Outstanding Female Vocalist; Outstanding Achievement in History; Tri-M Award; and the Woodstock Academy Music Parents’ Association Scholarship. Meg reports, “I’ll be attending Vassar College; I’m looking forward to pursuing math and music in a liberal arts setting!”

A member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, Zach Paige was also awarded the Louise P. Jordan Memorial Award for Outstanding Male Vocalist and The Woodstock Academy Music Parents’ Association Scholarship. Zach is headed to Gordon College in Wenham, MA, where he will be studying Biology on the pre-med track along with pursuing a minor in music. While he was at Rectory, Zach attended a Camp Mowglis, which is run by Rectory School alumnus Charlie Walbridge ’62. Zach attended Camp Mowglis, an all-boys camp, for five years as a camper. This past summer, he was asked back to the camp as a junior counselor for boys ages 7-9. He loves the people he has met at the camp and

articulate and gifted young adult who I enjoyed spending lots of time talking about books, authors, and various genres. When I think of Zachary, I think back to all of the times he brought in homemade chocolate chip cookies ‘just because!’ He is a kind soul who is a friend to many!”

Mrs. Patty Shattuck spoke highly of both Meg and Zach. “I did not teach Meg, but I was her Advisor for one year when she was in either 5th or 6th grade. She was in my MELP when Claudia Abbott and I led the Flights of Fancy MELP, which included trips to various educational sites in CT. Meg was a model student; she was full of curiosity, eagerly participated in each activity/event, and was so appreciative of the smallest gestures of kindness and caring. In turn, she was always well behaved and enjoyed helping fellow students whenever she could. Though Meg excelled academically and was full of creativity and talent, she was also extremely humble, which was so endearing. At the end of the school year when she had participated in my MELP, she gave me a necklace that she had made herself. I still wear that necklace proudly and always think of her when I do!

I never had the pleasure of teaching Zach either, but when he was at Rectory, I monitored the afternoon Day Room all year. I saw him frequently and got to know him well. He was always very polite and friendly, with a big, genuine smile. He was very unassuming, never boastful, and he was the kind of kid who would drop everything to help someone in need. Just a great allaround young man who always gave 100% effort!

I am not surprised that either of these students achieved the honors they did at their high school graduations! Good for both of them!”

loves the community they have formed. Zach also would like to share that after fully dedicating himself to his faith, he has gone forth with the formal baptism process. He is excited to pursue his faith further at Gordon College come September.

congratulations to these

We spoke to some of Zach and Meg’s teachers here at Rectory to

two high-achieving rectory

comment on their successes. Ms. Meghan Fluckinger said, “I taught

school alumni!

both! What an honor for both of them! Meg always has been an

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ALUMNI

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

MADELEINE HUTCHINS ’11 Madeleine reports, “I graduated from Yale University in May with a B.A. in Philosophy and am heading to Yale Divinity School to do a Master of Arts in Religion (M.A.R.) in Religion & Literature.”

CJ LANNON ’12 CJ reports, “I’ve become a full-time firefighter in the city of Providence, RI, as well as an “advanced-cardiac EMT,” which recently allowed me to purchase my first home at 22 years old. My father became a firefighter in Providence when I was only four years old, so I grew up around it. I loved it too much not to apply and go through the brutal and intense six months of the academy training that goes along with being hired. My father is now an 18-year Captain in our department, as well. Our department has approximately 500 members. Through the job, I have gained brothers and sisters that take care of each other at any given moment (on and off the job). We work 24-hour shifts at a time, so we live together, cook meals together, learn together, etc. I would give Rectory School 110% credit for helping me learn, at a young age, the people skills, leadership qualities, proper ways to address myself in the department emails, the way to carry myself in the public eye, and many more things that come along with being an adult and responsible person in the workplace.”

TYLER SHERIDAN ’12 Tyler reports, “I played junior hockey in Canada for the past three years. Last year was my first year of professional hockey with the Mentor Ice Breakers in Mentor, OH. This off-season, I was offered opportunity to play professional hockey in Sweden, so that is what I will be doing. I am very excited as it will be my first time going over to Europe. I think it will be a good experience personally and hockey wise. I will keep you posted on how my season goes. I hope everything is well with Rectory. I am very fortunate that I went to such a great school.

JIMMY SON ’13 Jimmy reports, “I recently joined the national service.”

JORDAN BRANDON ’14 Jordan reports, “I am studying cinematography and media at Sarah Lawrence College. I will be doing a semester at Syracuse University this coming fall to explore the campus and everything it has to offer, including film and media, prestigious psychology classes, and the collaborative and social networking environment that the students bring. I am currently interning at Hearst Media, working video and photo production shoots for Cosmopolitan, Men’s Esquire, ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, Men’s Health, Woman’s Day, and more. I recently worked as a camera assistant for several Macy’s commercials.”

MEIXIONG “MERRILL” WANG ’14 Merrill reports, “I am beginning my junior year at the University of Kentucky as a business major.”

ANNA MURPHY ’15

CJ Lannon and his dad, Captain Christopher Lannon.

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Anna reports, “I am going into my second year at Elon University in North Carolina, pursuing a degree in business management and economics! Currently, I am working and spending my summer on Nantucket running the front of the house at Island Kitchen! Also, I recently accepted an internship with Fresh Prints Co. as a Campus Apparel Manager for Elon!

Anna Murphy ’15.

STEVEN FERRARO ’15 Steven reports, “I am currently playing Juniors Ice Hockey with the Long Beach Sharks! I just graduated from high school this year (June 2019) and will be taking a gap year to try and get college scholarships for hockey!”

MICHAEL MILLS ’16 Michael graduated Cum Laude from The Winchendon School. His classmates voted him “Most Musical.” Michael sings and plays both the saxophone and guitar and is also a member of the Vocal and Instrumental Ensembles. Michael played lacrosse and hockey for the Wapitis. He was a member of The Winchendon School’s theater group and was cast in numerous roles, including the lead male role, Troy Bolton, in Disney’s High School Musical on Stage!; Perchik in Fiddler on the Roof; Jonathan Brewster in Arsenic and Old Lace; Dr. Frank Gibbs, one of the play’s main characters, in Our Town; the male lead, Jamie Wellerstein, in The Last Five Years; and Juliet’s father, Lord Capulet, in his school’s version of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. Michael’s final high school performance was as Sam Carmichael in the smash hit musical Mamma Mia! His final performance included singing multiple songs, including two solos and a powerful and moving duet of “S.O.S.” with the musical’s female lead. Michael will be continuing his studies at Texas Christian University (TCU) College of Fine Arts Department of Theatre located in Fort

ALUMNI

Worth, TX. Admission to TCU’s Acting Program is extremely competitive and intense. Following a successful pre-screen video audition, Michael traveled to New York City to be interviewed and auditioned live for possible acceptance to TCU’s College of Fine Arts. Michael was one of only 12 students accepted into TCU’s BFA Acting Programs Freshman Class. He was also awarded a TCU Theatre Scholarship as part of his acceptance package.

Michael Mills ’16.

STANLEY SHEN ’16 Stanley reports, “I am officially enlisted in the Singapore Army.”

ANNA MENDENHALL ’16 Anna reports, “I just graduated from Pomfret School, and I’m headed to Occidental College in Los Angeles, CA this fall to study Sociology and Public Health.”

Anna Mendenhall ’16.

IKER GARZA ’17 Iker reports, “I am starting my acting career.

Hopefully, I will migrate to LA to start a new job in Hollywood. Recently, however, I have been traveling the whole world.”

KENNY MILLS ’17 Kenny had a banner junior year at Hebron Academy. He was inducted into the prestigious Cum Laude Society.

Membership in the Cum Laude Society is considered the highest academic recognition a student can receive at Hebron. Kenny was one of only seven students to be bestowed with this honor.

During the school’s Baccalaureate service, Kenny was honored with The Harvard Book Prize for excellence in scholarship and high character, combined with achievement in other fields and the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Medal & Scholarship for excellence in Mathematics and Science.

As part of the award, Kenny was presented with a $125,000 RPI Scholarship. The National Association for Music Education also recognized Kenny for his academic and musical achievements with membership into their Tri-M Music Honor Society.

Kenny is an active member of the school’s Jazz Band, Orchestra, Chorus, Hebegebees A Cappella Group, and The Hebron Academy Drama Players. Kenny also received the school’s Music Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding performance, dedication, and commitment to Excellence in Music. Kenny was selected as the winner of Hebron Academy’s Winter Writing Contest. His essay, “Martianism,” will be published in an upcoming edition of The Hebron Review. Kenny was also selected to serve as a Proctor for the upcoming 2019-2020 academic year. In addition to his academic and artistic accomplishments, Kenny is a 3-sport letterman (hockey, baseball, and mountain biking) and captain of the varsity mountain biking team. He finished the 2018 season ranked 17th out of 97 riders in the Northern New England High School Mountain Bike League East B Division.

Kenny Mills ’17 receives his Cum Laude Society Pin.

JAKE BACKMAN ’19 Jake reports, “We traveled to Norway this summer for a family trip!”

Jake Backman ’19.

we would love to hear from you!

Contact Sheighla Wall, Alumni Relations and Events Manager at 860.963.6740 X370 or email sheighla.wall@ rectoryschool.org.

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

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ALUMNI PROFILE

“when I think of a young man with respect, basketball talent, and care for others, Keyonte is the first person who comes to mind.”

John Seaward, Keyonte’s basketball coach at Rectory

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ALUMNI PROFILE

keyonte beals ’19 Recent graduate, Keyonte Beals, Class of 2019, has been busy since he left Rectory in June. While at Rectory, Keyonte thrived in the classroom, dorm, and especially on the basketball court.

Jamie Haines, History Teacher and a MELP leader on the Florida

well as a captain, which allowed me to become a leader on and off

Everglades trip this past spring spoke highly of this young man who

the court.”

was only at Rectory for a year. “Two things impressed us the most about Keyonte on MELP. First was his self-confidence. There was a

Soccer coach, Matt Vollinger commented on Keyonte’s efforts on

group of young men playing basketball at a park we went to, and he

the field, “Keyonte was a natural leader and always supportive of

confidently walked onto the court and joined right in. He didn’t know

his teammates. His energy on the field was inspiring and contagious.

these men or their abilities. He did know that to improve his game,

Keyonte admirably stepped outside his comfort zone as a goalie and

he needed to challenge himself against the unknown. From what I

assumed the position of a forward in which he excelled throughout

could see, he was one of the best players on the court! The second

the season. Keyonte demonstrated great sportsmanship and respect

thing was his self-assurance. In a group of nine other boys, classmates

for his opponents throughout the season, and he set a great example

and peers, Keyonte was never a follower. He didn’t get caught up in

for others to follow.”

any conversation or action trying to impress the others or fit in. He is a young man who doesn’t need reassurance from his peers. He is a

John Seaward, one of Keyonte’s basketball coaches, said, “Keyonte

leader in his actions and his inactions. Keyonte is someone I expect to

was sensational both on and off the court. His skill, basketball IQ,

hear great things about in the future and someone that Rectory will

and being a team player first made him a joy to work with every day.

look to with pride and say, ‘He went to our school!’”

When I think of a young man with respect, basketball talent, and care for others, Keyonte is the first person who comes to mind.”

The energy he brought to the campus is something he also brought to his basketball team this summer. Keyonte traveled

Robert Roy, also his basketball coach said, “As a basketball player,

around the country with the U15 Big Time Hoops Spartans. He

Keyonte is truly blessed. His talent, competitiveness, and leadership

helped his team reach the national championship game in Las

are well above his age level. Keyonte accepted every challenge head-

Vegas, NV. This fall, he is attending Vermont Academy where he

on and was vital to our success. Throughout the year, Keyonte was a

received a full scholarship.

consistent role model for his younger teammates to help establish a winning culture.”

Keyonte reports, “Everything is good. I’ve been traveling a lot this summer and training every day. I have grown to love basketball more through the process.” He said, “I loved everything about

We can’t wait to follow Keyonte’s success at Vermont Academy and beyond.

Rectory School. It was a very family-oriented school, and the teachers had good relationships with students in and out of the classroom. Rectory dorm parents had a huge impact on me because they were always there if I needed anything. Rectory helped my basketball career because I was one of the oldest on the team as

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019

37

A YUMMY TRADITION

MONKEY BREAD recipe

ingredients 1½ sticks unsalted butter, melt and set aside 1½ tablespoons cinnamon 1½ cups sugar 2 packets Grands Buttermilk refrigerated biscuits

directions 1. Combine cinnamon and sugar in a bowl.

2. Separate each biscuit into 9 pieces and toss in the cinnamon/sugar mixture.

3. Place pieces into a greased 9” x 13” pan.

the tradition of monkey bread at rectory This fall we welcomed Brad and Mary Lou Seaward’s grandson, William, to the class of 2029 at Rectory. For those of you lucky enough to know the Seawards when you attended Rectory as boarders, do you remember the boarding breakfasts they held each year? Mrs. Seaward’s famous monkey bread was undoubtedly on the menu. While both the Seawards retired after the 2018 school year, last year they surprised the Class of 2019 with a huge serving of monkey bread in the Wolf Den (our student center that opened in 2017). Needless to say, it was a great hit and gave our 9th graders another moment to gather together before the rush of the end of the year and graduation was upon them.

4. Combine the remaining cinnamon/sugar mixture with the melted butter. Pour on top of the pieces in the pan and toss to coat evenly.

5. Bake at 375 degrees for 23 minutes or until light brown on top.

Note: Monkey bread continues to cook after you remove it from the oven, so if it looks a little undercooked, still remove it. It goes from done to burned very quickly.

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Perhaps some of you would like to capture that memory that Rectory and the Seawards gave you by making monkey bread for yourself, your families, and friends so we begged Mrs. Seaward for the recipe and we’ve included it to the left. Of course, if you’d like to share any of your memories of the Seaward family during your years at Rectory, we’d love to hear from you. We are gathering memories and stories for our centennial publication—you can email us at centennial@rectoryschool.org.

RETURN TO RECTORY ALUMNI REUNION WEEKEND

April 25–26, 2020

We invite alumni from all class years to come back to campus for Reunion Weekend! This year we celebrate our classes that end in 5s and 0s with special celebrations for the following reunion years:

1945, 1970, 1985, 1995, 2010

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS • 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

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.

REGISTER TODAY AT

www.rectoryschool.org/reunion

rectory creates!

#Rectoryschool

Throughout the year, Rectory students have the opportunity to be creative. In the Collins Art Barn and the re-opened woodshop as well as in the classrooms, students and faculty have an incredible mix of projects in progress all year long.

Here is a sampling of some of them.

collins art barn Even on Halloween, our Elementary Students are in the Collins Art Barn.

watercolor

robotics

Art teacher, Miss Judy Blakelock, was delighted with the results of her watercolor class.

Jocelyn K. ‘22 finds her passion for robotics.

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printmaking model plane Mr. Bastow and TJ P. ‘20 work on building a model plane together.

Bob D. ’20 shows his work to his dorm parent Mr. Pinkney at the printmaking showcase.

woodshop Mr. Josiah Fuller oversees woodshop which was reintroduced last year as part of our elective program. Proud students show off their finished mallets.

join the online conversation! music Mrs. Wiegel shows Kyle C. ’20 how to play the Ocarina during her music elective.

see all our feeds in one spot: www.rectoryschool.org/ social

528 Pomfret Street, P.O. Box 68, Pomfret, CT 06258

Rectory School Turns 100 in 2020! we hope to see you on campus during our centennial year.

See page 19 for a list of upcoming centennial events or visit: rectoryschool.org/centennial 42

THE RECTORY NEWS | FALL 2019