Connections 2023

connections

MEET OUR NEW CODIRECTORS OF ATHLETICS

PAGE 16

100TH ANNIVERSARY OF LIVING REPRODUCTIONS

PAGE 26

MR. FORBES HONORED AT ALUMNAE WEEKEND

PAGE 42

THE MAGAZINE OF ROLAND PARK COUNTRY SCHOOL

From The Head Of School

Dear Roland Park Country School Community,

At Roland Park Country School, we cherish our traditions. From the beloved Opening Day Convocation each August to our special Commencement ceremony every June — and so many annual events in between — we strongly believe in building collective, important memories that enrich the lives of our students, alumnae, employees, families and friends.

At the same time, our community intentionally embraces the present and envisions the possibilities of the future. Throughout the school year, we find so many meaningful ways to learn, grow, connect and appreciate every day, and at the same time, make space to dream of what may lie ahead. By continuing to revere the past and keep our traditions alive, we ground and center ourselves and at the same time are reminded that we are part of something bigger. As our School Song lyrics so perfectly state:

“Our school has meant much to us through all these years, and now we will sing in its praise. It has given us courage and strengthened us too. And taught us to live through the days.”

In this issue of Connections, we honor the past, present and future of Roland Park Country School. Be sure to check out our feature of the 100th anniversary of Living Reproductions at the Traditional Upper School Christmas Program last December, on page 26. On page 42, read an exciting update about former Lower School music teacher Mr. Doug Forbes. And throughout this magazine, we share highlights of so many of our treasured traditions, including the senior class’s 100th Night Dinner (page 46), the 14th Annual Alumnae Art Show with Cathy Counselman Kelly, 1974 (page 44), and the Alumnae Legacy Valentine’s Day Luncheon (page 45), among others.

In our cover story about our two new Co-Directors of Athletics (page 16), you’ll read how their history on the basketball court and as colleagues evolved and learn more about the future of what our program holds. We also share several highlights from this past school year, including a new college-level biomedical engineering course (page 32) and our annual Professional Connections program (page 33), in which alumnae returned to campus to provide career advice to Upper School students.

As we look ahead to the exciting future of RPCS, please read about our two new Assistant Heads of School on page 30. We will have more to report about our newly established Office of Culture, Community and Belonging later this year. Our school is also in the midst of a robust strategic planning process, and we look forward to sharing the results of this important work with you in the coming months.

To paraphrase the last verse of the School Song, we love, honor and cherish Roland Park Country School and it has a place in all of our hearts.

Please enjoy this issue and let us reminisce, discover and dream together.

Warmly,

Caroline Blatti Head of School

ON OPPOSITE PAGE: The Class of 1985 in the Backwoods with (bottom, l. to r.) Alex Lee Barlow, Susie Cho, and Valerie Garrett-Turner and (top, l. to r.) Beth Murphy Darrell, Jenny Stuelpnagel Hovermill, and Liza Fitzhugh. Classmate in the middle is unidentified.

CONNECTIONS is published annually for the Roland Park Country School community.

HEAD OF SCHOOL: Caroline Blatti

ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL FOR ADVANCEMENT: Patti Collins

EDITORS: Abbey Pulcinella, Director of Communications; Missie Dix Mack, Director of Alumnae Relations; Melissa Tully, Senior Communications

Associate/Photographer

DESIGN: Josephine Bergin

COVER PHOTO: Tracy Bracken

Calling

Meet

22

26

30

40

42

Birds

100th

Welcoming

Learn more about Elizabeth Elizardi and

REDS in Entertainment

Read

Mr.

The Class of 2023 brought unparalleled joy, energy and spirit to last fall’s RPCS Opening Day Convocation, a beloved tradition that represents hopeful new beginnings for the school year ahead!

Within These Walls

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH MIDDLE SCHOOL PANEL

Organized by the Student Diversity Association, the Middle School welcomed an impressive panel of women for Women’s History Month in March. Comprised of parents and alumnae, the panelists spoke to the girls about how to flourish in male-dominated industries, the best advice they’d ever received, what success means to them, and more. The alumnae spoke fondly of their time at RPCS and how their experiences as REDS impacted their professional and personal careers. One alum referenced her Upper School biology teacher as her biggest supporter for her decision to go into the sciences, while another highlighted a Middle School math teacher who inspired her to become a civil engineer and fostered her love of math. The session ended with a thought-provoking Q&A from the entire Middle School student body. Some pieces of advice the panelists shared with the girls included, “always be yourself,” “surround yourself with people who support you,” “be confident when you come to the table, even if you don’t know all of the answers,” and “do it afraid.” Thank you to Dr. Corina Fratila, Dr. Corrine McBride Hunt, 1999, Sabrina Johnson Turner, 1998 and Danielle Brock, 2002 for inspiring our future leaders!

Phoebe Taylor, 2024 and Katherine Guerrerio, 2023, the incoming and current presidents for the RPCS chapter of the Computer Science Honors Society (CSHS), were selected to present at the inaugural CSHS Leadership Summit this past spring! Katherine and Phoebe presented to computer science teachers and students about their Lockheed Martin-funded activity, CSHS Escape!, which was created for our Middle School students last year. They led participants through their design process and provided resources so other schools could replicate the same activities that engaged our students in a variety of computer science subjects, including cybersecurity, logic puzzles and programming.

This past January, our friends in the Tiger Lily and Poppy classrooms in Little Reds celebrated the Lunar New Year with a dragon parade! The children and teachers from the Tiger Lily room made the dragon, while the Poppy class played the music. Friends from first grade and the Upper School lined the halls to watch and cheer on the parade.

UPPER SCHOOL MUSICAL

Congratulations to the Upper School Performing Arts department on an incredible and memorable Upper School Musical last November! The entire company and crew put on four amazing afternoon and evening performances of “Disney’s Descendants” that transported us all to Auradon. We are so lucky to have such talented students and see them shine on stage and behind the scenes!

Congratulations to everyone involved in the Middle School’s production of “Wonderland: Alice’s Rock and Roll Adventure.” The four shows this past March were spectacular with two all-star casts, a talented production crew and outstanding performing arts faculty!

METEOROLOGISTS IN THE MAKING

In February, Abigail Degler, meteorologist for WJZ CBS Baltimore, visited our kindergarteners with her mobile weather unit! Ms. Degler provided a tour of the vehicle and explained the uses for all of the gadgets on top and screens in the back. She also described how the unit has cameras to obtain footage of the weather, even when it is dangerous to be outside in it. Ms. Degler then visited the classrooms for a Q&A session and to hear all about the girls’ work in meteorology, including their own weather forecast they presented in front of a green screen!

THINK PINK DAY

Our REDS turned PINK for Think Pink Day at RPCS this past April! Started in the Lower School in 2016 by then third grader Lala Blumenfeld, 2026,this year’s fundraiser to raise money for breast cancer research involved the entire school. For a small donation, students from every division could dress down in pink, purchase baked goods, buy stickers and scrunchies, and even get their faces painted. The day culminated in an all-school walk, a tradition that hasn’t happened since 2018. Each of the younger girls were paired with an older student for the walk around the neighborhood and ended the day with a healthy snack donated by Graul’s Market.

Within These Walls

RPCS ROBOTICS TEAM WINS QUALIFIERS

Congratulations to our triumphant Robotics Team, the Bionic Bears, who in their first year as a formal team at RPCS won their qualifiers in January and had the opportunity to advance to the state championship tournament! The team was comprised of Suzannah Figler, 2023 (captain), Susan Niu, 2023, Katherine Guerrerio, 2023, Aylin Metzel, 2023, Mo’Riyah Johnson, 2023, Rebecca Showalter, 2024, and Audrey Pierre, 2026.

In October, the third grade hosted the fifth grade at their annual Fall Harvest Feast

The girls harvested vegetables and herbs from the RPCS gardens and created cherry tomato pizza, ratatouille, pickles, sorrel apple wraps (an annual favorite), and holy basil and mint tea. Everyone enjoyed the feast and had a fun time participating in joint activities after the meal. We are grateful to Ms. Carmona and Ms. Pearson for teaching our girls the value of harvesting a meal right from their own gardens!

After nine contestants and 33 rounds, Eliana Hastings, 2028 was crowned the 2023 champion of The Jean Waller Brune Middle School Spelling Bee this past February! Her winning word was “quibble”: a slight objection or criticism about a trivial matter. A round of applause also goes to the Reserve Champion (secondplace winner) of the Spelling Bee – Morgen Kunhardt, 2027! We are so proud of all of the students who participated.

Starting in September, Little Reds hosted local families for a monthly Music In The Woods gathering. The event included our Little Reds students and friends for a morning of children’s songs performed on an acoustic guitar in our beautiful Backwoods!

AND THE WINNING WORD WAS…

BSU CONFERENCE AT RPCS

This past spring, our Upper School Black Student Union (BSU) hosted a BSU conference with students from local BSU chapters at Boys’ Latin, Bryn Mawr, Gilman and Friends. Head of School Caroline Blatti and Director of Student Belonging and Inclusive Excellence

Courtney Mercado (pictured below right) welcomed 140 students onto our campus. RPCS BSU President Samiyah Norris, 2023 (pictured below left) kicked off the conference with participants attending two student-led sessions on varying topics. The conference’s main goals were to be in community together and to foster deep conversations and friendships with their peers. The conference ended with keynote speaker Brandi Francis, who emphasized the importance of selfcare through affirming oneself, choosing one’s community well and cultivating a daily gratitude practice.

EMPLOYEES AND UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS LEARN SELF-DEFENSE

Director of Safety and Security Mike Brooks led two 8-week courses this school year on self-defense called RAD (Rape Aggression Defense System), which was offered to all female employees and Upper School students at RPCS. He taught the participants how to protect themselves from assailants in multiple scenarios. It was an intense course, with multiple educational components and physical resistance strategies.

Snuggle Up & Read Night has become a beloved tradition among our Little Reds and Lower School families! One evening last March, our families and children — the latter dressed in PJs and toting their favorite blankets and stuffed animals — visited campus to snuggle up and read books provided by the Killebrew Library, after eating a pizza dinner. The students loved being together during off-school hours and becoming absorbed in wonderful books!

These Walls

At Roland Park Country School, the world is our classroom! Here are just a few examples of how our students expanded and enriched their learning beyond campus.

Social Justice Trip to Richmond, VA

and Washington, D.C.

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, this spring the Class of 2027 visited Richmond, VA and Washington, D.C. from a social justice vantage point. At the Sankofa Community Orchard, students met with Duron Chavis, an urban farmer, educator, and changemaker who taught them about the ways in which land in Richmond is being reclaimed for food justice. “Walking the Ward with Gary Flowers” introduced Jackson Ward, also known as Black Wall Street in Richmond. Learning about great Americans such as Maggie L. Walker helped students put Black history into perspective. As a city of monuments, Washington, D.C. provided many iconic and lesser-known monuments for students to reflect upon, including the Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism, Mary McLeod Bethune, and the Emancipation Monument.

Outdoor Learning at Echo Hill Camp

Our sixth grade embarked on the annual four-day trip to Echo Hill Camp this past April. From taking classes — including swamp ecology, survival skills, and bay studies — to conquering adventure courses, learning how to build fires and taking night hikes, the students bravely stepped out of their comfort zones to try new things, challenge themselves and encourage and support their classmates as well.

Middle School Model UN Conference

In January, 15 of our Middle School students participated in the first-ever Middle School Model UN Conference, held in Hershey, PA. With students from all over the country, this was a fantastic experience for our Middle Schoolers, who were assigned cases and represented different countries. These assignments, along with the debate sessions and presenting their findings, seemed to be the favorite activity — other than bonding with friends at the hotel!

Fifth Graders Explore Nature at Irvine Nature Center

Last fall, the fifth grade traveled to Irvine Nature Center for a day of hiking and exploring nature. They scanned for macroinvertebrates in the wetlands and even captured (and released) tadpoles! This is our second year in partnership with Irvine Nature Center, which has become a core part of the fifth grade yearlong science curriculum of Focused Environmental Research of Nature (FERN).

REDS Explore Morocco

Over spring break, a group of Upper School students and faculty chaperones visited Morocco. From visiting the Todgha Gorges, learning Arabic, riding camels, and sleeping in the Sahara, our students loved the incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture.

Lower School STEAM Week Field Trips

Semis Spread Holiday Cheer in the Community

Last December, the Semiquavers, our auditioned singing ensemble, went caroling throughout the community to spread holiday cheer! They visited two retirement communities, Blakehurst and Broadmead, as well as Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital. At the retirement communities, the girls had the opportunity to meet several alumnae, including previous teachers and former Semis! At Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital, they performed for both inpatient and outpatient audiences and dropped off nearly 300 toys that the Upper School donated, an outreach effort led by the Community Service Association and Spirit Committee. The Semis were grateful for the opportunity to make spirits bright once again after a two-year hiatus.

This year’s Lower School STEAM “Week at the Beach” was one to remember! Heather Samet, Lower School STEAM Director, and Ashley Pearson, Lower School Science Teacher, arranged fabulous field trips to Annapolis where the girls in grades K-5 were able to experience hands-on activities on the waterfront. In addition to touring the Annapolis Maritime Museum, they also cruised around the Annapolis Harbor. The rest of the week was jam-packed with exceptional learning experiences, including special STEAMthemed classes, collaborations and challenges every day. Several inspiring alumnae speakers also gave fantastic presentations, including Tanaira Cullens, 2008, Environmental Scientist at Biohabitats; Maddie Kaufman, 2012, Program and Outreach Director of Debris Free Oceans; and Heather Gustafson, former member of the Class of 2008, Emmy Award-winning journalist, filmmaker and producer.

Athletics: Cheering on Our REDS!

It was an exciting year full of competition, growth, fun and comradery for our sports teams and student athletes. Read on for some of the major highlights during the 2022-2023 school year.

Next Level REDS

Nine members of the Class of 2023 committed to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Five student athletes signed National Letters of Intent in the early signing period last fall, and four REDS were celebrated at our spring signing ceremony. We can’t wait to cheer on our REDS as they compete at the next level!

Pat Wong Again Named IAAM Squash Coach of the Year

For the second consecutive season, Head Varsity Squash Coach

Congratulations to:

Shapard Croft

Denison University, lacrosse

Caroline Gaines Catholic University, lacrosse

Ryan Greenlee Colgate University, cross country

Natalie O’Neill United States Naval Academy, lacrosse

Hannah Roth Grinnell College, cross country and track & field

Kate

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, lacrosse

Charlotte Troy William & Mary, lacrosse

Grayson Woodward Bryant University, lacrosse

2022 RPCS Fall Sports Festival

Last September, the RPCS Fall Sports Festival featured competitions for all Upper School fall sports, including the return of the Sally E. Nyborg Field Hockey Game! We were so excited to continue the tradition of commemorating the life of Sally Nyborg, an exceptional young woman and RPCS student and athlete who passed away in 1998.

Pat Wong has been named the Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland (IAAM) Squash Coach of the Year! She was honored by her peers for her dedication to growing the sport at RPCS and in the IAAM. A longtime coach at RPCS, Coach Wong guided the REDS to an 8-2 overall record and a 5-1 mark during league play this year — an overall improvement that can be directly attributed to her handson coaching approach. Coach Wong’s commitment to providing a culture full of learning, competitive opportunity and appreciation for the sport creates the best experience possible for our athletes and for the league.

Julia Ciufo University of Delaware, lacrosse

Schnee

Sally E. Nyborg

New Program Offers Mental Health Game Plan for RPCS Student Athletes

With 80 percent of Upper School students playing at least one sport, Roland Park Country School is committed to supporting the emotional wellness of our student athletes.

Last fall, RPCS teamed up with the MINDset Center, a psychology practice that offers a comprehensive wellness education program specifically designed for student athletes. Through their Person Before Player initiative, psychologist Dr. Shreya Hessler and psychotherapist and Associate Director of Sports Psychology, Casey Giovanazzi Kutner, M.A., provided ongoing seminars and resources throughout the school year to support students, parents and coaches, and equip them with the tools they need to succeed in athletics and in life. “Our goal is to empower student athletes using tangible strategies and action plans to cultivate resilience, both in and out of the game,” said Dr. Hessler, who is also a past RPCS parent.

Payton Cavanaugh, 2023, who participated in the fall and winter sessions, found the program to be beneficial and relatable. “This program gave us tips on how to maintain clarity and perspective,” Payton said. “And it’s so valuable to know that RPCS really cares about their athletes’ mental health and that makes us feel supported.”

RPCS looks forward to a continued collaboration with the MINDset Center to help foster a healthy and positive environment for all student athletes. Learn more at mindsetcenter.com/person-before-player.

Cross Country Team Recognized by Nike

Gaby Davis Named New Varsity Soccer Head Coach

Two REDS Receive IAAM Character Coins

This year, two of our REDS received IAAM character coins, which are given by other schools’ coaches to recognize athletes for their display of fair play, integrity and respect. Congratulations to Natalie O’Neill, 2023, who received a character coin from Head Coach Brad Rees after the varsity basketball team’s game vs. McDonogh in January and to Maya Schreiber, 2024, who was recognized by Bryn Mawr’s coach Kate Brendler for her sportsmanship at the Tennis Championships in October.

New Middle School Track Team

Last November, our REDS toed the line at the Nike Southeast Cross Country Regional Championships in Cary, NC, where they placed second in the Rising Stars race and seventh in the Girls Open Race. Then, in January, they were recognized by Nike as an ALL REGION TEAM, one of the top teams in the entire southeast region. It is an honor to be recognized and extra motivation to return strong this fall!

RPCS is thrilled to welcome Gaby Davis as Varsity Soccer Head Coach, starting the 2023-2024 season! Gaby joins us from Oldfields School, where she has served in several roles, including Head Varsity Soccer Coach and Director of Athletics. In addition to her collegiate playing experience and years coaching club and high school soccer, Gaby also brings a competitive enthusiasm for the sport and unique knowledge of the IAAM. She will also be joining our Upper School Math Department. We look forward to the next chapter of RPCS soccer for our REDS!

History in the making! In April, our Middle School Track team traveled to Archbishop Curley to compete for the first time ever in a track meet, and they won every event, except one! As a new sport in the Middle School this year, we are so proud of these REDS who embraced the opportunity and competed together to make history for RPCS Athletics. The future is bright for REDS Track & Field!

Maya Schreiber, 2024

Natalie O’Neill, 2023

Visual Arts

The visual arts at RPCS enable students to apply critical and creative thinking skills, strengthen their ability to articulate their ideas and demonstrate vulnerability and honesty in sharing their work. Our visual artists also come to profoundly understand who they are and what they are capable of creating. Enjoy this glimpse into a few of the memorable visual art pieces that kept our student artists busy this year!

The kindergarten class visited the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) this past winter. Their unit focused on a painting project that highlighted the water lilies of Monet’s garden in Giverny, France (see this painting by Divya Stojan, 2035), so it was a delight for the students to view two Monets in person at the BMA. Mrs. McAslan also took the third grade students to the BMA, where they visited the Cone Collection as part of their study of Henri Matisse in art class and had a terrific time seeing the art in person!

Third graders created abstract floral watercolors inspired by the work of Georgia O’Keeffe, with an emphasis on drawing the flower big and cropping it to push the creation of abstract composition. This Georgia O’Keefe-inspired painting is by Ayele Blumenfeld, 2032.

and from different times in history, our sixth grade artists designed and created their own ceramic masks depicting an imaginary person or creature that they might meet in a dream. Mask by Evi Vincent, 2029.

In a Day of the Dead art unit, each seventh grader designed a skeleton sculpture, inspired by Mexican calacas, and crafted it out of wire and papier-mâché. The sculpture had to show to the skeleton figure’s personality and an activity in which they are engaged. “Lady Bob” sculpture by Alexis Russell, 2028.

Senior first students learned how to paint using one color and make a value chart. After painting a value scale, the students then used that color for their monochromatic buildings as part of their study of architecture. This monochromatic painting is by Lou Lou Sale, 2034.

In the newly formed Middle School Art Club, students studied artist Wayne Thiebaud, who is famous for painting delicious-looking desserts and then created their own interpretations. Painting by Brie Darby , 2028 (acrylic paint on canvas board).

Three Student-Artists Earn Regional Honors

The Regional Scholastic Art and Writing Awards are the nation’s longest-running, most prestigious recognition program for creative teens. This year, 1,600 teens within the Baltimore region and across the state submitted 4,200 works of visual and literary art to the MD Regional Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. Three of our students were recognized for their outstanding work this year (from

left to right): Rebecca Showalter, 2024 earned an Honorable Mention for her painting Christian, 2024 earned a Gold Key award for her photograph Stalked; and Laila Carroll earned an Honorable Mention for her photograph The Tears of Silence.

Congratulations to Aylin Metzel, 2023, whose ceramic piece, Closed Circuit, was selected for The National K-12 Ceramic Exhibition at the National Council for Education in the Ceramic Arts Conference in February!

The exhibition ran in March in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Aylin’s ceramic piece was selected from among 1,317 entries.

Our Advanced Placement (AP) Art and Design students in the Upper School shared their outstanding work in Studio Art, Photography and Ceramics with the community at an AP Art Show in April. It was a spectacular showcase of our students’ talents as they offered insights into their paintings, drawings, mixed media work, photography, ceramics, fashion design, and digital imaging pieces they have been working on this year.

LEFT: Terra cotta and porcelain hawk skull pot by Percival Koontz, 2023 RIGHT: Sculpture by Lucy Steele, 2023

Mixed, Rebecca Showalter, 2024 Stalked, Bria Christian, 2024

The Tears of Silence, Laila Carroll, 2024

Performing Arts

Through the performing arts at RPCS, students deepen their connection to their own imaginations and the world around them. They also learn lifelong skills to become engaged citizens, such as understanding the value of sustained effort over time. This year, our student artists from Lower to Upper School shared their talents, skills and passions and discovered the joy in bringing our community together, either on stage or behind the scenes.

Left: The Roses Repertory Dance Company was thrilled to host ClancyWorks Dance Company as their residency partner for this year. Matthew Heggem, ClancyWorks Dance Company Associate Artistic Director, first met the girls in September and worked with them for a month to choreograph a new dance for the Roses that debuted at our Upper School Winter Dance Concert in January.

Valle! Fourth graders stepped in a flamenco style to “Rosa de Pitmini” by Rocia Jurado at the Lower School Winter Concert.

Top: The Eighth Grade Singers opened the Middle School Winter Concert in January with the musical hit, “Seize the Day” from Newsies.

Bottom: The sixth grade had a terrific time making their Middle School concert debut by dancing to “Wonder” by Emili Sandé.

Above: This year’s Upper School Spring Dance Concert featured unforgettable performances by our talented dancers.

Right: The Hip Hop Squad made their first appearance since 2019, and the seniors performed breathtaking pieces.

Left: Per tradition, kindergarteners joined the Semiquavers in a beautiful collaboration of singing and choreography to the song “I Got the Music (and the Music’s In Me)” at the Upper School Spring Concert. Above: The senior Semis also graced the audience with their rendition of “Grow as We Grow.”

Above: At the Lower School Spring Concert, students from kindergarten, first grade and second grade collectively sang “Tell Me What You See” — the first time these three groups have performed together!

In a culmination of their Lower School musical career, the fifth grade danced, sang and played instruments in this year’s Spring Concert.

New Co-Directors of Athletics are

Calling the Shots

In their first year as Co-Directors of Athletics at Roland Park Country School, Scott Buckley and Dani Kell Steinbach, 2004 built upon the strong athletics program already in place. From prioritizing mental wellness in student athletes through a new program for players, families and coaches, to expanding the athletics offerings in the Middle School and Lower School, Dani and Scott’s shared love of athletics, deep pride for the REDS, and history on the basketball court and as colleagues, add up to a slam dunk for the Athletics program at RPCS. Both directors also possess a friendly but determined spirit when it comes to winning. “Scott and I could be playing checkers and we would be competitive about it,” Dani joked.

Looking Back: From Coaches to Colleagues

Although these are new roles for Scott and Dani, their connections with the Athletics Department at RPCS date back more than 20 years. Scott has worked at RPCS for 26 years in the Athletics Department and served as the Varsity basketball coach for 22 years, with an overall record of 364 wins and 207 losses. His teams have competed in seven AIS and IAAM championships and Scott was named Baltimore City/County Coach of the Year, Baltimore Metro Coach of the Year, and Associated Press Coach of the Year during his tenure. Throughout his coaching career, six players reached the 1,000-point milestone, 16 players went on to compete at the collegiate level, and one athlete played basketball professionally. In addition to coaching and serving as Associate Director of Athletics, Scott has also supported countless student athletes in various sports in their college recruitment process.

In 1999, Scott recruited Dani to RPCS as an incoming eighth grader after seeing her play at a local basketball game. Once at RPCS, Dani was a multisport athlete, participating in 12 Varsity seasons during her Upper School years. A member of the Varsity basketball and softball teams for all four years of her high school athletic career, Dani served as basketball team captain her junior and senior years and softball captain her senior year. She was the third all-time leading scorer in basketball with 1,236 career points and an IAAM All-Star her senior year.

As a coach, Scott was known for his intensity and competitiveness, Dani recalls. “We went by his energy and were playing the best of the best.” And Scott describes Dani as an outstanding basketball player, playing point guard with remarkable forethought and impressive shooting.

Dani excelled in other sports as well. A member of the Varsity soccer team for three years, she was selected as an IAAM All-Star in 2000 and 2001. She joined the Varsity volleyball team her senior year, and as a first-year player, was selected as an IAAM All-Star and served as team captain. In softball, Dani was recognized as an IAAM All-Star in 2001, 2003 and 2004, helping the team win the C Conference championship in 2003.

In her junior year, Dani received the White Blazer Award, the School’s highest athletic honor, and the Amanda Lee Norris Award for her excellent performance as a team attack player in 2002 and 2003. Dani served as vice president of the Athletic Association as a junior and president as a senior. After graduating from RPCS in 2004, Dani played basketball at the College of William & Mary, serving as a two-time team captain. She was a Colonial Athletic Association All-Conference Rookie Team Selection in 2005-2006 and Colonial Athletic Association Academic First Team in 2008-2009.

Shortly after graduating from college, Dani received a call from Scott with a job offer as assistant Varsity basketball coach. She returned to RPCS to work sideby-side with him for six years and also coached JV basketball for two years before taking over the Varsity basketball head coach position. Scott and Dani also worked together in the Athletics Department for five years, supporting the supervision and management of the Upper School and Middle School athletics teams, coaches and home competitions, as well as assisting with leadership efforts, spirit initiatives, community building and managing the Fitness Center.

From top left clockwise: Dani Kell Steinbach, 2004, two-time team captain at the College of William & Mary; Scott Buckley coaching the RPCS Varsity basketball team; Scott and Dani sharing their career wins and points.

Both Scott and Dani’s separate and shared experiences at Roland Park Country School have impacted their approaches to their new roles as Co-Directors of Athletics. They both recognize the importance of the student athlete journey at RPCS and have immense pride for the school. As colleagues, they also understand and complement each other, and are thrilled to interact more with students in these new roles. For both of them, a favorite part of the job is watching the REDS compete! Read on for more reflections from our new Co-Directors of Athletics.

How was your first year as Co-Athletic Directors?

Dani: We were fortunate that the RPCS athletic program was already well-positioned when we took over last summer. With high school sports changing nationwide, we are working hard to figure out the landscape of our future athletics programs. We’re also very invested in the health and well-being of our student athletes. We’re learning how we can support their whole selves and we are also providing our coaches with programming and resources beyond practices and games to help them, too.

What is your favorite part of the job?

Scott: One of my favorite parts of the job is seeing our students overcome adversity and succeed in different sports. Also, I laugh a lot more now. I’ve been able to work and connect more with the Middle School students recently and they add lightheartedness to my days. We are also in a great place with top-level coaches and I enjoy supporting them in their roles.

Dani: The kids are my favorite part of this job. I have had the opportunity to get to know so many more of our student athletes and I love supporting them. I also really enjoy working with our coaches and seeing how they thrive in their roles.

What are non-negotiables for you in establishing and maintaining a culture in Athletics?

Dani: We recognize that kids have a lot on their plates these days, but in order for athletics to work, there needs to be accountability for our student athletes and their teammates. With so many of our Upper School students playing at least one sport, being part of a team is both an opportunity and a responsibility. We have a student athlete agreement that outlines our expectations, which every player must sign before the season begins.

What does it mean to be a RED?

Dani: To be a RED is to be part of a team. It means having pride for your school and your teammates and working really hard, both in sports and in the classroom.

Scott: To be a RED means to make the most of all of the opportunities here and to maximize these four years of Upper School to help figure out who you want to be. We want our student athletes to be just as hardworking in the classroom as they are on the field. We also encourage them to cultivate their leadership skills and prepare for the next step, whether that’s here or after graduation.

What is your vision for the Athletics program at RPCS?

Scott: This program is bigger than the game! The student athlete experience is unique and special and close to both of our hearts, and we are here to support our students in whatever they are seeking.

Dani: We want to be the best we can be and also meet our students where they are. We are always striving for excellence, while also creating the best student athlete possible. As a department, we are also seeking opportunities to improve. We want to get better every day.

REDS by the Numbers

15 varsity sports

44 REDS currently competing in college

58 individuals and 6 teams in the Athletic Hall of Fame

21 All-Conference REDS in the last year

16 championships in the last 8 years in 9 sports

88% of Middle School students play at least one sport

80% of Upper School students play at least one sport

90 coaching positions each school year

23 Upper School teams

15 Middle School teams

Feather BIRDS OF A

According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, in America there are 45 million birders — the hobbyists who identify and observe wild birds in their natural habitat for recreation. The popularity of this beloved pastime increased a few years ago during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to grow today, including among younger and more diverse communities. At Roland Park Country School, birding has long been an area of interest for our students and alumnae and is now even part of the Lower School curriculum! But for our REDS, birding goes beyond the joys of pursuing a passion. Learning about birds cultivates empathy, leadership, empowerment, collaboration and environmental stewardship.

Birding Through the Years: Josie Kalbfleisch, 2023

When she was in fourth grade more than eight years ago, Josie Kalbfleisch, 2023 picked up a bird guide that belonged to her grandmother, Jane Wilhelm Daniels, 1946, and decided she wanted to learn more. Even though she was involved in other hobbies at the time, including soccer and gymnastics, birding quickly became a passion of Josie’s that continues today.

After about a year of teaching herself about bird watching, Josie’s mother, Ann Daniels, 1983, started researching local birding clubs and learned about a youth division of the Maryland Ornithological Society, a statewide organization of amateur birders of all skill levels, as well as professional ornithologists and scientists in other fields. Josie joined the Youth Maryland Ornithological Society (YMOS) in fifth grade and became actively involved in day trips to national wildlife refuges in Chincoteague, Cape May, NJ, Garrett County, Blackwater, Kent County, and Bombay Hook in Delaware. She also began participating in the World Series of Birding, the country’s largest and most prestigious birding competition, sponsored by New Jersey Audubon.

Throughout the years, Josie has continued to pursue this passion by starting a campaign in Middle School to help with bird window safety on campus and interning and volunteering at Irvine Nature Center, where she assisted with raptor and other animal care and taught students in grades 3-5. She also volunteers with Lights Out Baltimore, a nonprofit project of the Baltimore Bird Club that advocates for bird-safe building design and aims to make Charm City safe for migratory birds.

This past spring, Josie spoke with the first grade students about her work with Lights Out Baltimore and preventing bird strikes (collisions with aircraft or objects). The students were so inspired to learn how Josie positively impacted legislation by persuading government leaders to require building practices that reduce the consumption of resources and create a safer environment for birds. In fact, after her talk, the first graders started a letter-writing campaign attempting to persuade the Maryland Science Center to install bird safety decals on their windows!

First Grade Unit: Birds of a Feather

In the 2021-2022 school year, first grade teachers Casey Briggs, 1991 and Sara Gerrish formally introduced a two-and-a-half-monthlong interdisciplinary unit on birds to encourage learning in nearly every academic subject in unique and exciting ways. “The students absolutely loved it and became truly passionate about birds and were excited to apply what they learned,” Ms. Gerrish said.

What originally began as a social studies unit expanded to include other subjects. In science, the students planted annuals in the herb garden, including sunflowers, zinnias and shrubs. In math, they tallied the number of birds that visit the feeders on campus and the numbers of windows on campus for a service project to prevent bird strikes. In Writing Workshop, the first graders investigated an assigned “backyard bird of Maryland” and sharpened their research and expository writing skills to complete a polished piece of writing about that bird’s physical description, habitat, food and adaptations. In art class, the girls created multimedia collages inspired by the works of Eric Carle and Charley Harper. Each student also practiced public speaking by memorizing a poem about a bird, which they performed at the First Grade Poetry Festival, an annual culminating event of the unit and a celebration of learning. At the festival, the students wore customized headdresses they created in homeroom, which illustrated their poems. The festival also included a song about birds that they learned in music and featured displays of the students’ artwork and research papers.

The interdisciplinary model of this first grade unit encouraged students to think deeply and critically about what they were learning and consider new concepts and issues from multiple perspectives. The integrative instruction also fostered the first graders’ self-confidence, problem-solving skills, sense of empowerment and a passion for knowledge, while supporting their various interests, talents and learning styles. “As with any teaching, students can find their areas where they really shine throughout the unit,” Casey said.

This past spring, with the addition of first grade teacher Lauren DeVries, the senior first students participated in a service learning project to maintain the official bird sanctuary on campus (see details on the next page). They also researched endangered birds not

The Class of 2033 at last year’s inaugural Poetry Festival.

Mr. Brian Rollfinke with the first graders at Irvine Nature Center.

necessarily indigenous to Maryland, such as the snowy owl and puffin, and the Endangered Species Act and then presented their findings to the entire Lower School during a Morning Meeting this past May. “I really love the fact that they’re taking this learning and then applying that knowledge in hands-on ways,” Lauren said.

The girls also met with Mr. Seve Padilla, Roland Park Country School’s Director of Operations, to advocate for placing decals on the Lower School windows to prevent bird strikes and also worked with him to create signage about it throughout the school. “This unit has been empowering for our students, who learn that they can have an impact and change things for the better,” Sara said. “They really take it seriously and are so caring and empathetic — they are stewards of the birds.”

This unit also featured several special guest speakers and a field trip to further connect their learning in the classroom to the real world. Highlights include:

• In May 2022, the work from the inaugural first grade interdisciplinary unit culminated at a Bird Garden Sign Dedication ceremony at RPCS. Erin Reed Miller, Senior Coordinator for Bird-Friendly Communities for Patterson Park Audubon Society, came to present our bird garden with an official healthy bird habitat sign after the first grade made sure that our habitat met all of the requirements. The girls gave detailed descriptions of the changes they made to the habitat to Ms. Reed and performed a song and poem from their Poetry Festival. Ms. Reed returned this spring for another presentation with the first graders.

• In early April, the first grade visited the Irvine Nature Center, where Mr. Brian Rollfinke taught them about bird beak adaptations, helped them observe birds in their natural habitats from a bird blind, took them for a hike, and introduced them to a permanent resident of Irvine — a screech owl. The girls chose various tools and instruments, such as tweezers, chopsticks, small nets, and handheld nutcrackers to use as “beaks” to pick up objects to study beak adaptations. They also learned about different nests and materials the birds use such as sticks, grass and moss. This spring, Lilah Bracken, 2029 met with the first graders to share research she conducted on window strikes in the fifth grade. She shared tips on how to prevent window strikes and what to do if a strike should occur. The students were very engaged and concerned about the safety of the birds and inspired to make a positive change after Lilah’s presentation.

Birding in the Backwoods

The Backwoods, five acres of urban woodland on the RPCS campus, is an important stop for migrating birds. This year, Lower School music teacher Rachel Gahan took the first graders to see warblers and other migrating birds who make a rest stop in the Backwoods on their return to Canada in mid-May. In 2017, students from the Class of 2029 (then kindergartners!) learned about various species of birds native to the region and made binoculars to venture on a bird-watching expedition in our own backyard!

Birding: Fast Facts

45 million birders in America

934,000 birders in Maryland (18% of Maryland residents)2

462 bird species in Maryland3

72 rare, threatened or endangered bird species in Maryland4

5 acres of urban woodland in The Backwoods on the RPCS campus; an important stop for migrating birds

References: 1. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service; 2. Birder’s Guide to Maryland and D.C. 3. Maryland Ornithological Society 4. Department of Natural Resources.

LEFT: Lilah Bracken, 2029, presenting her bird strike research findings to the first graders;

RIGHT: the RPCS bird garden was designated as an official healthy bird habitat by the Patterson Park Audubon Society. The work of Charley Harper and Eric Carle inspired this collage by Rebecca Klatt., 2034.

100th

ANNIVERSARY OF THE LIVING REPRODUCTIONS AT RPCS

On December 15, 2022, alumnae, families, students, employees and friends gathered in person for the first time in three years for Roland Park Country School’s Traditional Upper School Christmas Program and the 100th anniversary of the Living Reproductions, a series of stunning tableaus featuring Middle School students depicting famous Christmas paintings. All 420 seats in the Sinex Theater were filled, with an additional 310 people tuning in from around the country via livestream, to enjoy one of the school’s oldest and most cherished programs.

The Traditional Upper School Christmas Program is supported by an endowment created by Elizabeth Edgar Swope, 1931, whose ongoing generosity has helped to sustain it each year for many decades. In honor of the School’s Centennial, Mrs. Swope established an endowment to ensure the continuation of this treasured RPCS tradition. Even in difficult years, including 1947, when the program was held at St. David’s Church following a fire after Commencement at RPCS in June of that year, and 2020 and 2021, when a virtual program was broadcast via Zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Traditional Upper School Christmas Program has endured.

The annual event includes poetry readings, musical performances, audience carols, an alumnae candle lighting, and of course, the Living Reproductions. These unique recreations, which require meticulous planning and detail in casting, lighting, makeup, staging and costumes, have been featured in local media throughout the years, including The Baltimore Sun, The Sun Magazine, The Washington Post and The Baltimore Messenger. >>

“Tradition is like a golden cord linking the past to the present, connecting the generations through ritual, custom and the comfort of the familiar.

– Baltimore Messenger Feature on Living Reproductions, 2000

2022 Living Reproduction: Adoration of the Shepherds by Pupil of Rembrandt, c. 1646, featured Eden Varghese, 2029 (Mary); Londynn Harper, 2029 (Joseph); Evie Howard, 2029 (first woman), Evi Vincent, 2029 (second woman), Katie Marsh, 2028 (shepherd with lantern); Avery Shaughnessy, 2029 (shepherd with dog); Kennedy Winston, 2029 (first kneeling shepherd); and Scarlett Caffo, 2029, (second kneeling shepherd)

100th ANNIVERSARY OF THE LIVING REPRODUCTIONS AT RPCS

The idea for Living Reproductions came from former English teacher Helen Irvin. During a trip to Oxford, England, she was so inspired by the tableaus she saw, that she introduced the concept to RPCS. Back then, Miss Irvin supervised the production’s staging and costuming. In 1945, under the guidance of then-art teacher Elizabeth Winn, an industrious RPCS eighth grader named Judy Waters volunteered to help paint her first tableau. As a Class of 1950 graduate and then a long-time Upper School art teacher, Judy served as the Director of the Living Reproductions for over 50 years. A former student of Judy Waters, Carol Witz Hunt, 1976, followed in Judy’s footsteps, assisting her in 2008 before becoming the Artistic Designer and Director when Judy retired in 2014.

Carol has since retired, and last year three RPCS employees took over the helm as Co-Directors: Annie Ferebee Short, 2001, Middle and Upper School Dance teacher and Performing Arts Chair, who served on the stage crew for the Living Reproductions as an RPCS student and as Assistant Director of the Program under both Judy and Carol, along with Missie Mack, Director of Alumnae Relations, who previously worked as Associate Director of the Program; and Emily Dierkes Rohrer, 2002, Upper School art teacher, who also served as the Artistic Director for this year’s program.

Other alumnae have been involved in the program through the years, including Janet Bauer Hartman, 1968, who is a current Trustee and former Middle School Art teacher. She was invaluable in assisting in

the design and production for over 30 years. Amy Barrett Frew, 1972, former Middle School Math teacher, also joined the production for many years as Assistant Director.

Throughout its history, parents and RPCS employees have helped to sew costumes, working tirelessly to match the colors, fabrics, and designs portrayed in the original images. Today, Middle School students volunteer to perform in the Living Reproductions and Upper School students continue to assist as the backstage crew. Students practice holding their position and facial expression for several minutes at a time. Regular rehearsals include breathing exercises and lessons in assuming a relaxed, but motionless pose.

For the 100th anniversary production, three traditional tableaus were featured: The Annunciation by Ludovico Pogliaglu, 1949; Adoration of the Shepherds by Pupil of Rembrandt c. 1646; and Mother and Child by Judy Waters c. 1980, as well as one modern painting in honor of the 100th anniversary: Campfire on Winter Lake by Eugene Iverd, 1931. “I think it is amazing to be a part of something that has been going on for so long and I’ve enjoyed connecting with alumnae who were also part of past Living Reproductions,” said Maya Jayachandran, 2029, who was cast as Mary for the Mother and Child tableau.

The memories of Living Reproductions live in the hearts of our alumnae and broader community. We are thankful for the care and love put into this truly unique annual tradition that honors the past, while evolving throughout the years to become more modern and inclusive.

STRIKE A POSE!

As we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Living Reproductions, we asked alumnae to share their poses from years past. Our first graders also demonstrated their posing skills, hopeful to participate themselves one day

OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT: At the 2022 performance, Lilah Bracken, 2029 prepares for her role in The Annunciation; OPPOSITE PAGE, RIGHT: Maya Jayachandran, 2029 behind the curtain before Mother and Child (top) and the final living reproduction (bottom) THIS PAGE: Living Reproductions from top left, clockwise: The Annunciation, 1969; Adoration of the Kings, 1990; Adoration of the Shepherds, 1972; Adoration of the Shepherds, 2012; Ms. Judy Waters, 1950 preparing a student for Living Reproductions in the 1970s.

WELCOMING OUR NEW ASSISTANT HEADS OF SCHOOL

RPCS Assistant Heads of School, from left to right: Elizabeth Elizardi, Ph.D., Elisha James and Patti Collins

This year, two new Assistant Heads of School have been appointed at RPCS to help advance the exciting programs and initiatives that are critically aligned with the school’s strategic priorities. “I am confident that the strong and distinct leadership of these two individuals will greatly benefit our students and our entire community,” said Caroline Blatti, Head of School. “Together with Patti Collins, our Assistant Head of School for Advancement, we are well positioned for the future and I’m incredibly excited for what lies ahead.” Learn a little more about our new Assistant Heads of School!

ELISHA JAMES

Assistant Head of School for Culture, Community and Belonging

This past winter, Head of School Caroline Blatti announced the appointment of Elisha James as Assistant Head of School for Culture, Community and Belonging. This is an exciting new role that shapes and develops approaches, policies and processes that support the school’s commitment to a thriving culture and community at RPCS.

Elisha has excelled in several leadership roles at RPCS, including Middle School Dean of Students and most recently, Director of K-12 Student Life and Engagement. This last school year marked her 17 years of service at RPCS, and as a beloved educator and leader, she has always excelled at cultivating authentic relationships with our students and putting their needs first. This new role will allow Elisha to promote our students’ voices and nurture their dreams even more broadly, while fostering a culture of belonging and inclusivity. Elisha earned a B.S. in Chemistry and a M.S. in Science of Education, both from Morgan State University. She also has a Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) degree from Liberty University.

As Assistant Head of School for Culture, Community and Belonging, Elisha develops practices, procedures and programs that create intersectionality within the areas of diversity, equity and inclusion, student life, leadership and belonging. In this new role, Elisha is instrumental in examining and implementing student life programs that contribute to a healthy, thriving student culture. She also advances strategic priorities of the School that relate to developing and evolving a positive, proactive, and collaborative culture and community.

“I am humbled, honored, and excited to take on this role that allows me to keep the students at the center, as our goal is to see them thrive in every facet of school life,” Elisha said when the appointment was announced in January. “As we strive to build up, nurture and lead current and future students, it is imperative that we allow our core values to guide us and that we look within and beyond ourselves to grapple with the complexities and beauty of school life. I am eager to create an engaging environment for all, so our students can thrive, grow and become the best versions of themselves.”

ELIZABETH ELIZARDI, PH.D.

Assistant Head of School for Academics and Programs

This July, Elizabeth Elizardi, Ph.D. joins Roland Park Country School as the Assistant Head of School for Academics and Programs. Elizabeth has led high-performing teams in independent and charter schools for 10 years. She joins us from The Agnes Irwin School, a pre-K-12 all-girls college preparatory school in the greater Philadelphia area. Prior to that, Elizabeth served as the founding head of the early childhood program at The Isidore Newman School in Louisiana. A seasoned educator, she has worked in the classroom and as an administrator, developed curriculum and curriculum-mapping processes, and was a founding leadership coach for Leading Educators, a professional development agency that trains teacher-leaders nationwide.

Elizabeth earned a B.A. in Elementary Education from American University and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. She also has a Master of Applied Positive Psychology degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Louisiana State University.

As a strong academic leader, Elizabeth believes that students first need to know that they are cared for and valued by teachers through reciprocal relationships that allow them to take risks and make mistakes. She balances the academic rigor of an institution with the need to innovate to prepare students for a world that they will create. Among her top priorities is a continued focus on diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Additionally, Elizabeth is equipped with experience in executing strategic plans and moving schools from aspiration to action.

“I am drawn to RPCS because of its mission and commitment to allgirls teaching and learning,” Elizabeth said. “It is apparent to me that RPCS is dedicated to elevating students’ voice and choice, leading crucial conversations in single-sex education, and reflecting on the intersection of academic programming, well-being, and personal identity. I am eager to be immersed in a place that cultivates creativity and brings forth purpose-driven women leaders into the world.”

As Assistant Head of School for Academics and Programs, Elizabeth will serve an important role in strategic thinking, integrating ideas, collaborating across departments and uniting vision with implementation for all of Roland Park Country School’s academic endeavors. Elizabeth will oversee key strategic decisions regarding the curricula growth and alignment from kindergarten through 12th grade and will also work closely with the department heads and academic division heads to articulate and reflect upon the scope and sequence of their curricula, considering Roland Park Country School’s philosophy and current best practices.

BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING RPCS Students Explore Through New College Course

This past fall, through a new collaborative effort with Johns Hopkins University and the Holliday Heine STEM Institute, RPCS offered juniors and seniors the opportunity to take Biomedical Engineering Innovation, a college-credit course taught virtually by Johns Hopkins University. Composed of 14 seniors and nine juniors, the course transformed the way these students are considering college, the biomedical field and their futures.

For example, Jessie Behrens, 2023 was able to connect the work she was doing in this class with an internship she participated in last summer at Sinai Hospital. She knew she had a passion for medicine and sciences, but had not been previously exposed to biomedical engineering and was excited to learn more about it.

Throughout the class, which was offered in the fall of 2022, RPCS students modeled biological systems and designed experiments to test those models, while also using engineering principles to solve biological, physiological and/or medical design problems. As the first class of its kind offered at RPCS, the format was different from anything these students had previously experienced. “I thought it would be like sitting in Zoom classes like we did during COVID, but the course was very structured,” Abby McDonnell, 2024 said. “All the units incorporated a video, discussion board topic, assignment, a quiz or lab, and then we moved on. The teaching assistants (TAs) helped, but we had to do a lot on our own and learn from the videos.”

Learning a new topic in an unfamiliar format was a daunting experience for the girls at first. However, as the course progressed throughout the semester, they learned how to maintain the balance of working independently from a classroom teacher and how to work together as a group. “There was a lot of group work, especially with labs,” Caroline Gaines, 2023 said. “There were online group sessions where we

answered each other’s questions and learned from the conversation. TAs oversaw these sessions, and participation was part of the grade.”

They also engaged in peer-reviewing lab reports, collaborating on assignments, and managing their time and workloads together, which consisted of a full course schedule at RPCS along with college applications, for the seniors.

Once the students found their rhythm, they reflected that the work they were doing was truly extraordinary. Their labs exposed them to technology and resources that they never thought they would have access to, even once in college. Some of their projects and labs included:

• Working with Arduino, a programmable circuit board, using the C++ language and multiple sensors, including a sound sensor and photoresistor sensor.

• Human Efficiency Lab – The students worked in lab groups to calculate the human efficiency levels of an active person, answering questions about how the human “machine” performs during rest and exercise.

• Circulatory System and Blood Flow Lab – This lab showed how oxygen turns into blood. The students made a diagram of how the circulatory system could be modeled using an electrical circuit.

Mid-semester, the students enjoyed traveling to the Johns Hopkins University campus in East Baltimore to meet their instructor and the TAs, and see firsthand the da Vinci robot, a revolutionary medical robotics system that uses tele-operation and stereo cameras for the research and application of minimally invasive surgery. Each student had an opportunity to test out the da Vinci robot and to hear from graduate students in the lab about their current research and future career paths.

The results? Every student performed incredibly well in the class, and their instructor was impressed

with the work these high schoolers put forth.

“Cultivating the curious minds of young women in engineering has been a remarkable experience,” their instructor, Sarah Neshat, told RPCS. “I was amazed every single day. The talent and caliber of students at Roland Park Country School was just amazing. All the girls were incredibly engaged, curious, and even funny! Witnessing their innovative approaches, successful teamwork, and passion for problem-solving, especially the final project, has reminded me of the endless possibilities of female potential in the field.”

Jessie mentioned how the experience changed her perspective on college and will really help her prepare for her course load this fall at Northeastern University. She added that it was inspiring to work with educators from Johns Hopkins and felt grateful that this unique opportunity was offered at RPCS.

Abby added, “If there was a Biomedical Engineering Innovation Part II, I would definitely take it.”

“I was amazed every single day. The talent and caliber of students at Roland Park Country School was just amazing. All the girls were incredibly engaged, curious, and even funny! Witnessing their innovative approaches, successful teamwork, and passion for problem-solving, especially in the final project, has reminded me of the endless possibilities of female potential in the field.”

- SARAH NESHAT, INSTRUCTOR

Professional Connections:

REDS Return to RPCS to Share Career Advice

Last January, RPCS was thrilled to welcome 10 alumnae ranging from the Classes of 1994 to 2017 back to campus for the school’s annual Professional Connections program. Organized by the Upper School and the Alumnae Office, the RPCS graduates met with small groups of Upper School students, where they discussed how they chose their respective careers, offered sage advice for handling life’s challenges and revealed how being a RED helped prepare them for life after graduation.

Exploring Possibilities

Several alumnae advised the Upper School students to explore career possibilities by paying attention to what interests them now. “What are three things that you are curious about? What did you love to do when you were 10 years old?” asked Shawn Slotke Brown, 2001, a health and wellness coach. She encouraged the students to write down these thoughts in a journal before leading them through a breathing exercise. “If you do not explore, you will not find,” Shawn told them.

Dr. Morgan Dvorkin, 2009, a veterinarian who changed careers after working as a business analyst shared similar sentiments in her sessions. “Listen to yourself and listen to your gut,” she told the students, explaining how remembering how happy she was around animals when she was younger ultimately led to her dream job. “It’s way easier to do something you love!”

“College is your opportunity to explore fields that you enjoyed in high school,” Dr. Tala Al-Talib, 2001, P’34, P’37, a cardiologist and RPCS parent, told the students. She also encouraged them to travel abroad to immerse themselves in different cultures to gain new perspectives. “The more you see what other people do, the more you will see what you like,” she said.

Liz Lenrow, 2006, Executive Director and Banker at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Baltimore, explained to the students how she tried a few internships and classes in college to ultimately find what interested her professionally. “Follow your passion and don’t give up,” she told the Upper Schoolers.

Building Community in a Career

Another recurring theme among the presentations was advice for building connections and community through one’s career. “It’s okay to make mistakes as you learn and move up the chain,” commercial still life photographer Aurélie Graillot, 2002 advised the Upper School students. “What is important is making good connections.”

Corporate attorney Stasia Thomas Nardangeli , 1999 urged the students she spoke with to seek a mentor. “Find someone a little bit further along in the process of doing what you want to do and talk with them, get to know them.” Stasia also noted how she has always been able to connect with a community of women because

Our annual Professional Connections program was held on Friday, January 6, 2023, for Upper School students. The following alumnae returned to campus (in person and virtually) to share the stories of their career paths and their best advice for current REDS: (from left to right): Dr. Morgan Dvorkin, DVM, 2009; Dr. Tala Al-Talib, 2001; Shawn Slotke Brown, 2001; Stasia Thomas Nardangeli, 1999; Aurélie Graillot, 2002; Maya Elizabeth Hairston, 2012; Virginia Hodges Jeffery, 1994; Grace Calhoun, 2017; and Liz Lenrow, 2006. (Not pictured: Madeline Kaufman, 2012, who was remote.)

of her time at RPCS and still considers her classmates as sisters today.

Professional musician Maya Elizabeth Hairston, 2012 also spoke about relationships. “It’s key to have community in life, but also in your career,” the singer-songwriter, recording artist and worship leader encouraged the students in her sessions. “Have people around you who remind you to the have confidence from within, when you feel you do not.”

Continuous Growth and Flexibility

Several speakers also shared how their time at RPCS helped them grow and explained how careers and jobs are ever-changing. For example, marine biologist Maddie Kaufman, 2012 credits her AP Biology teacher, David Brock, with leading her to her career path today. Maddie spoke via Zoom about her path to becoming the Program and Outreach Director of Debris Free Oceans (DFO), a Miamibased nonprofit that empowers local communities to stop plastic pollution. “I can be on the beach picking

up trash one day and sweating, and in a button-up shirt the next talking to elected officials on how we can eliminate ocean waste.”

Virginia Hodges Jeffery, 1994, a project manager for The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, also credits RPCS for giving her the confidence and academic skills to excel at the University of Virginia, where she studied mechanical engineering and was one of three women in her program. She also encouraged the students to consider a degree in engineering to give them the flexibility to pursue a variety of professions.

Grace Calhoun, 2017, a licensed private investigator, also spoke about the variety her work offers. She enjoys her career because no two cases are the same and she constantly has to think on her feet and change plans at a moment’s notice.

We offer a huge thank you to all of the alumnae who took the time to visit RPCS earlier this year and share their career-related experiences, wisdom and insights with our Upper School students!

senior profiles

Kendall Brown

When Kendall Brown first joined Roland Park Country School as a freshman, she pursued clubs and activities to help her acclimate to the school. Four years later, she has discovered passions, confidence and leadership skills in a supportive community. “There are endless opportunities at RPCS and it’s the perfect place to try new things,” Kendall said. “I’ve become so much more outgoing and feel empowered to step out of my comfort zone.” She also credits RPCS with preparing her well for life skills, including public speaking, interviewing, organization and time management.

Kendall was senior class vice president of the Student Government association and a member of Peer Health, the Black Student Union (BSU) and the Hip Hop Squad. She is also a Red Key Guide who serves as an ambassador of the school for prospective parents and students, and she is a teacher in the Lower School’s Extended Day after-school program.

From playing Snow White in the Upper School’s fall musical “Disney’s Descendants” to performing an outstanding senior dance solo to a medley of Michael Jackson songs this past winter, Kendall loves being on stage — another passion she discovered at RPCS. As part of the Roses Repertory Dance Company, the school’s auditioned dance ensemble for juniors and seniors, Kendall has enjoyed the challenge of expanding her creative abilities and collaborative skills.

This spring, in conjunction with her diploma, Kendall graduated with a Roland Park Country School Arts Certificate of Distinction, a pilot program that recognizes RPCS students whose advanced studies in the arts have demonstrated high-quality pre-professional level and a continued passion for performing and/or visual arts. In addition to taking AP Studio Art this year, Kendall also owns her

own business called Art Through Everything, where she sells custom paintings. At Commencement, Kendall was awarded The Margaret E. Smith Prize for her determination, spirit, growth and positive contribution to the RPCS community.

After graduation, Kendall will miss her friends and all of the school traditions, including Opening Day and the Upper School dodgeball tournament. “The support, love and energy from this senior class is amazing,” Kendall said. “Everyone is so proud of and happy for each other. RPCS has the best school spirit!”

This summer, Kendall will travel to California with the Roses and will then return to RPCS to work for summer camps and Before Care. Kendall will attend Howard University in the fall, where she will major in business administration and minor in psychology.

During her 12 years at Roland Park Country School, Katherine Guerrerio always felt supported by her teachers and classmates to help reach her goals. “At RPCS, I was constantly challenged and pushed to be the best that I could be,” Katherine said. “As a girls’ school that also encourages interactions in the STEM fields, I was able to explore my interests in computer science and gain the confidence that I am able to succeed in this maledominated field.”

Katherine is president of multiple STEM-focused clubs and organizations, including the Computer Science Honor Society, which she co-founded her junior year, and CyberPatriots, where she led her team into the semifinals during the 2021-2022 season. She is also a member of the school’s robotics team, which won the championship in the FIRST Tech Challenge in their first qualifying round for the 2022-2023 season. In her junior year, Katherine was awarded the Women in Science Award, the Women in Mathematics Award and the University of Chicago Book Award, which is bestowed to a scholar who is among the strongest in her class and whose coursework is among the most challenging. She is also a Maryland Affiliate Winner for the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Aspiration in Computing Award in 2023 and a Maryland Honorable Mention in 2021 and 2022.

In ninth grade, Katherine started a nonprofit organization called Community Reads that teaches children in grades K-2 about diversity through literature.

From coordinating programs at local schools and libraries, Community Reads has reached more than 1,071 children throughout Baltimore — reading 11 books in 68 individual lessons across seven locations. Katherine has secured three grants and a fiscal sponsor for the program, formed community partnerships and is working to make Community Reads an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that will continue after she graduates.

As a senior member of the Philanthropic Literacy Board and Senior Portfolio Manager of Power Lunch, Katherine defines leadership as trusting and supporting others and seeing a project through to the end. “It also means leading by example and not being afraid of what other people think of your ideas,” Katherine said. She is also co-president of the Sustainability Council and the Dungeons & Dragons Club and is a member of the Gender Sexuality Alliance and the Baltimore Girls’ Schools Leadership Coalition Cohort. An Upper School merit scholar, Katherine was inducted in the National Cum Laude Society as a junior. She was also awarded both the World Languages Certificate and STEM Certificate this spring. This spring, Katherine also received the Community Service Award, the College Scholarship Prize, the Maryland State Merit Scholastic Award, the Eleanor P. Graham Award, and the George M. White Memorial Award.

“All of these experiences at RPCS have allowed me to figure out what I am passionate about and given me the tools to enact change in my community that I can use as the basis to create change on a larger scale,” Katherine said.

Outside of school, Katherine has volunteered at Leaders Across the World as a facilitator for global discussions with other students about social issues and as a peer mentor for the Experiment Digital: Youth Leaders and Community Service, a virtual exchange program centered around creating a service project. She also plays piano and badminton. This fall, Katherine will attend Johns Hopkins University’s Whiting School of Engineering and plans to double major in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics and Statistics.

Katherine Guerrerio

Maggie Waldron

Throughout her five years at Roland Park Country School, Maggie Waldron has excelled academically, while also exploring her creative passions. In the fall of her junior year, she taught herself a design software application and joined the Communications office at RPCS for an independent study to learn more about marketing and graphic design. Maggie continued the independent study throughout her senior year, using her talent and creativity to work on many high-profile projects in branding, marketing and design, and enjoyed it so much that she plans to pursue communications in college.

Another creative outlet for Maggie was the Yearbook Club, which Maggie has been a part of throughout her four years in Upper School. As co-editor this year, she loved learning about and participating in all of the behind-the-scenes work of the yearbook and appreciated how it allowed her to further explore her interest in communications and graphic design.

Maggie is also passionate about health and wellness and has been a member of the Student Wellness Organization (SWO) for the past four years. She particularly enjoyed collaborating with the other members of SWO to coordinate various events for Wellness Week and brainstorming ideas for additional initiatives to encourage students’ health and well-being. “Being able to make a positive impact on the lives of the students in our community is so important to me,” Maggie said.

A graduate of the Holliday Heine STEM Institute, Maggie has proudly maintained her Honor Roll status for all four years of Upper School. Outside of RPCS, she runs a successful small business, Preppy Gifts by Maggie, where she handles all of the finances, marketing and customer service. She recently a fulfilled a 100-piece order for a Wall Street firm.

“RPCS has taught me to advocate for myself, both inside and outside of the classroom,” said Maggie. “The life lessons that I have gained here are going to help me so much beyond high school, which is invaluable.” She is also grateful for her kind and supportive teachers and friends and the strong community spirit at Roland Park Country School.

After graduation, Maggie will spend the summer in Sherwood Forest, Maryland, working full time as a nanny for three children. This fall, she will head to Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, where she will major in marketing and corporate communications and public affairs, with a concentration in entrepreneurship.

Community service has always been an important part of Ella Kate West’s life. When she joined Roland Park Country School four years ago, she quickly saw an opportunity to introduce more hands-on volunteer activities in the Upper School. Through her involvement with the Community Service Association, first as a 10th grade representative and vice president before becoming president this year, Ella Kate planned the Upper School’s firstever Community Service Day last spring. During the day, students participated in a wide variety of activities to support several local nonprofit organizations, including the Maryland Book Bank, the Maryland SPCA, and Manna House, among others. She hopes this will become an annual tradition and has also worked to set up other service opportunities with the students throughout the year. Additionally, last summer, Ella Kate completed an internship at Art with a Heart, a local organization that engages the community in the planning, creation and installation of public art. She invited fellow RPCS students to join her, and together they helped to create a mosaic tree for Israel.

“RPCS has pushed me to become a more independent person and to really think outside of the box,” Ella Kate said. “Throughout my time here, I’ve been able to follow my passions and carve my own unique path.”

For example, last year Ella Kate and classmate Natalie O’Neill started Shark Tank Club, based on the popular TV show, after identifying a need for more opportunities to learn about the principles of business and entrepreneurship. Last summer, Ella Kate completed a capstone fellowship with RPCS alumna Meredith Hauf Hudkins, 2004 to learn about her entrepreneurial journey as a social media influencer and help her expand her target audience.

As a three-season athlete, playing soccer (and serving as team captain) and lacrosse and running indoor track and field, Ella Kate acknowledges how being part of these teams has made a significant and positive impact on her overall student experience. She is also a peer health mentor for the ninth graders and is involved with the Baltimore Girls Leadership Coalition. Last year, she received the Williams College Book Award, which is given to a junior who has demonstrated intellectual leadership and has made a significant contribution to the extracurricular life of the school. This year, she was also the recipient of the White Blazer Award, the School’s highest athletic honor, and the Maryland State Merit Scholastic Award.

“I am most proud of the community service work I’ve done during my time at RPCS,” said Ella Kate. “And I’ve made the best group of friends here, who I will miss seeing in the halls every day after graduation.”

This fall, Ella Kate will attend the University of Virginia as an Echols Scholar, a distinction awarded to approximately 5 percent of the incoming class. She plans to study economics and media studies.

Ella Kate West

Tina Canady, 2013

It was at Roland Park Country School where Tina Canady, 2013 discovered that pursuing a career in the arts was a possibility. Tina, a non-binary multidisciplinary artist who uses they/them pronouns, recalls that their four years at RPCS helped them shape a passion for the arts and cultivate a sense of fearlessness and curiosity of the craft. “I had the opportunity to dip my toes into so many different creative endeavors, and those experiences taught me that I could walk several paths to success.”

Tina joined RPCS in ninth grade and played goalie on the lacrosse team through junior year, in addition to being a member of the Footlights Theatre Ensemble, and part of the Upper School Musical each year. One of Tina’s favorite memories of RPCS was traveling to Italy with the Roses and Semiquavers as a graduating senior. “It was an unforgettable experience to perform abroad,” Tina remembers. On that trip, Tina tried gelato for the first time, and absolutely loved it and ate it every day!

Tina also credits RPCS for shaping their work ethic as they learned how to balance schoolwork and extracurricular activities. “In my profession, I’m very busy, but I have the skills to stay organized and driven amidst all of the projects I juggle,” Tina said.

After graduating from RPCS, Tina earned a B.F.A. in Drama from New York University. A seasoned stage actor, Tina created and directed their first documentary, Breathing Black, in 2020, as a vehicle for healing after the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. In the film, Tina and an all-Black creative team interviewed Black Baltimoreans about their connections to joy, healing and breath. “Joy has played such an important part in my life and how I’ve navigated the world,” Tina said in a Baltimore Magazine interview in 2021. “I feel like there is more space for that ... There’s so much power in joy as a means or strategy to navigate oppression.”

The documentary premiered at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum in December 2021 and was selected for the 2022 Columbia Film Festival. Tina returned to RPCS in April 2022 to share the film with Upper School students. Recently, they also signed a contract for Breathing Black to begin streaming worldwide on the Black-owned streaming service, KweliTV. In the past year, Tina also completed an online screenwriting program through the Film Radio Film Connection and recently finished their first screenplay.

Tina acknowledges that a career in the arts is never an easy one and comes with a lot of highs and lows. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tina could no longer be involved with what brought them the most joy — theater — and wondered what a career in the arts would look like moving forward. It was out of this hard place that they branched out into film, which was very scary and intimidating at the time.

“I’m incredibly grateful to have had so much support throughout my professional life, but I want to emphasize that it has been the lows that have built my character and fueled my determination rather than the highs.”

Catherine Sharkey, 1988

As a professor at NYU School of Law, Catherine Sharkey, 1988 values the unique student-teacher relationship and the lasting impact it can make. Reflecting on her time at Roland Park Country School, Catherine credits the role her teachers played in her intellectual and personal development. Specifically, she remembers Mrs. Judy Pittenger, Mrs. Myra Goldgeier, Mrs. Anne Heuisler, Mrs. Joyce Brown, and Ms. Linda Trapp for planting seeds, offering encouragement, setting expectations, and directing her through six formative years to help her build a sense of selfconfidence and the ability to take initiative.

“I was fortunate to have extraordinary teachers who were not only excellent at their craft, but who also cared so much about their students,” Catherine said. “They met me where I was, identified exactly how I needed to be challenged and guided my intellectual and personal development.”

After graduating from RPCS, Catherine earned a B.A. in Economics from Yale University. A Rhodes Scholar, she went on to earn an M.S. in Economics for Development from Oxford University and a J.D. from Yale Law School, where she was Executive Editor of the Yale Law Journal. Today, as Segal Family Professor of Regulatory Law and Policy at NYU School of Law, Catherine is one of the nation’s leading authorities on artificial intelligence in federal agencies, the economic loss rule, punitive damages, and federal preemption of state tort law. She has published more than 50 law review articles, essays, reviews and book chapters in the fields of torts, products liability, administrative law, remedies and class actions.

Catherine joined RPCS in seventh grade from a co-ed school. “There is something very empowering about an all-girls environment, where we were expected to lead and participate, in addition to juggling our academic and extracurricular pursuits,” Catherine said. “These things matter, especially in today’s world.” As president of student government her senior year, Catherine is grateful for the leadership opportunities offered to her at RPCS, which gave her experience and confidence, while also broadening her thinking about how to achieve something bigger than her personal goals.

An outstanding student athlete, Catherine played lacrosse, field hockey, and soccer. After graduating high school, she was elected captain of Yale’s lacrosse team, selected as a member of the U.S. national women’s lacrosse team, and was named to the All-American Women’s Lacrosse team. Catherine believes in the importance of finding a passion outside of academic pursuits. “I learned so much through lacrosse, including leadership, the importance of connecting with teammates and drawing inspiration from them,” Catherine said. “I also learned that sometimes we can try really hard, push ourselves to the limit and still fail — and the valuable perspective this brings.”

Catherine also has fond memories of her classmates and values the bonds they formed through their shared history and “silly shenanigans,” — a closeness that endures today. When Catherine’s sister Siobhan Sophia Sharkey, 1983 passed away in 2012, many of her classmates reached out individually to offer support, which Catherine deeply appreciated.

Today, Catherine finds inspiration by spending time with her family. She and her wife, Ina Bort, and their children, Caleb and Phoebe, enjoy traveling, the arts and sharing cultural experiences together. She also loves her job, especially the teaching component, which she calls one of her greatest delights. “I am so inspired by my students and think that teaching may be my most lasting contribution.”

Joan Buckler Claybrook, 1955

The Department of Transportation estimates that more than 60,000 lives to date have been saved by airbags in the United States — an impressive statistic and just one of the many traffic-safety legacies of Joan Buckler Claybrook, 1955. As president of the consumer-advocacy organization Public Citizen for 27 years, Joan oversaw many successful advocacy campaigns, including playing a key role in persuading Congress to mandate airbags, as well as pushing measures to improve fuel economy and truck safety. Joan also served as the head of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the Carter administration from 1977 to 1981 — the first female administrator of the organization. Before that, Joan founded and ran Public Citizen’s Congress Watch division and worked for the the Public Interest Research Group, the National Traffic Safety Bureau, the Social Security Administration, and the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.

When she was 28 years old, Joan moved to Washington, D.C. on a yearlong fellowship with the American Political Science Association and the Federal Civil Service Commission. For the first half of her fellowship, she worked in the House of Representatives for Representative James A. Mackay of Atlanta, Georgia. Within five months of her work on auto safety, the auto industry lobbyists nicknamed Joan “the dragon lady,” which she considered a compliment! It drove her to work harder to help pass the first national auto safety law in the U.S., which was enacted in September 1966.

Growing up and watching her father, a city council member, organize legal services for public housing and people experiencing poverty, Joan was educated at an early age to help the needy and volunteer for causes to make the world a better place, a mindset that has been with her all of her life. “I have

derived my inspiration from the work I have done, from wanting to help others, the great people for whom I worked, and from the opportunities I’ve had to make a difference in people’s lives.”

Joan joined RPCS in the third grade and credits the school for providing a foundation of deep learning. “RPCS definitely shaped my understanding of excellence in learning, in researching and producing written documents, in creative thinking, in the search for new ideas, and the discipline needed to accomplish tasks,” she said. She recalls the open-air classrooms on the University Parkway campus and freezing-cold walks between classes. “We were not allowed to wear anything over the blue cotton uniforms with long sleeves and white cuffs, so many of us hid a white sweater underneath our uniforms,” Joan said. She enjoyed playing basketball, field hockey and tennis and appreciated the first-rate teachers, particularly Ms. Margareta Faissler, who taught history and current events. “She was very tough,” Joan recalls. “Everyone was afraid of her, but she was a great teacher and very kind.”

After graduating from RPCS, Joan majored in History at Goucher College and went on to earn several honors, including an honorary doctor of law from Goucher College in 1980; an honorary doctor of public service from the University of Maryland in 1981; the Philip Hart Distinguished Consumer Service Award from the Consumer Federation of America in 1986; the Excellence in Public Service Award from Georgetown Law Center in 1990; and an honorary doctor of law from Georgetown University in 1993.

Since retiring from Public Citizen in 2009, Joan remains active on many boards, including the Board of Visitors at Georgetown University Law Center and the Board of Public Citizen, and continues to work on motor-vehicle safety with a few nonprofits she helped to found or sustain over the years. She is also finishing writing a book called Corporate Sabotage of America’s Future, which will be published by Public Citizen this summer. Joan enjoys spending time with her brothers, nephews, and great nieces and nephews and has dinner with her two young grandnieces every Sunday. “I love to cook and teach them the first stages for a lifetime of fun!”

Within five months of her work on auto safety, the auto industry lobbyists nicknamed Joan “the dragon lady,” which she considered a compliment! It drove her to work harder to help pass the first national auto-safety law in the U.S., which was enacted in September 1966.

Roland Park Country School students participated in It’s Academic, the longest-running TV quiz show, in April 1977. Students pictured seated here from left to right: Martha Fitzpatrick Bishai, 1978; Mimi Davidovski, 1977 and Kristin Ranum Franceschi, 1978. Back row from left to right: Show host Mac McGarry; Giant Food representative; and RPCS faculty advisor Mr. Tom Miller.

Entertainment, Arts and Culture REDS in . . .

ALLISON P. DAVIS, 2004

Allison P. Davis is a features writer for New York Magazine and The Cut. Her 2022 profile on Meghan Markle was New York Magazine’s most read article of the year. Allison’s features, profiles and essays also regularly appear in Esquire, GQ, California Sunday, Elle, and the New York Times. Her profile of Lena Dunham won a 2019 Front Page Award. Allison’s TV credits include FX’s Fleishman is in Trouble, AMC’s Invitation to a Bonfire, the second season of Hulu’s Tell Me Lies and an in-development erotic thriller. Follow her on Twitter @ allisonpdavis and Instagram @babymeatballs.

ASHLEY THOMPSON HOVEY, 2003

Ashley is an entertainment executive with extensive experience working with industryleading companies in sports, media, TV and film. Currently, she is Vice President and Head of Global Business Services at Creative Artists Agency (CAA), the top talent agency in the world. Prior to joining CAA, she held several leadership positions at Viacom, Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros., Disney and ESPN. Ashley earned a B.S. from Quinnipiac University in Business Marketing and International Business and a degree in Advanced Project Management from Stanford University. After spending a decade in Los Angeles, she now lives with her husband and three children in Nashville, TN. Follow Ashley on Instagram @ athovey or LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/ashley-hovey-caa.

NICOLE ARI PARKER KODJOE, 1988

Nicole is an actor, producer, wife, mother, co-founder of the Kodjoe Family Foundation, business owner and creator of the amazing sweatband, the Gymwrap. She is a series regular on the TV show And Just Like That… as Lisa Todd Wexley and a recurring character on Chicago P.D. as Deputy Superintendent Samantha Miller. She has starred in a number of movies, including Blue Streak, Remember the Titans, Brown Sugar, Black Dynamite and Almost Christmas, among others. On TV, Nicole played the leading role of attorney Teri Joseph (later Carter) in the Showtime drama series Soul Food, for which she received five NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series nominations. She is a graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. Follow Nicole on Instagram and Twitter @nicoleariparker.

Graduates of Roland Park Country School have gone on to do incredible things with varied paths taking them all over the globe. In this new feature, we are highlighting REDS with careers in specific industries. Up first: a backstage pass to learn more about RPCS alumnae who work in entertainment, arts and culture!

MELISSA STARK LILLEY, 1991

Melissa is a sportscaster and TV personality, covering the top names in sports, news and entertainment. Currently, she is a sideline reporter for Sunday Night Football on NBC and a host and reporter with the NFL Network, with a principal role on the Sports Emmy Awardwinning NFL 360. Since 2012, Melissa has served as host of the NFL Draft red carpet and interviews the top draft picks on-stage. She previously worked as a sideline reporter for Monday Night Football on ABC, as well as for ESPN and The Today Show on NBC, among other media outlets. A graduate of the University of Virginia, Melissa landed her first media job when she was an Upper School student at RPCS as an extern with Baltimore NBC affiliate WBAL-TV! Follow Melissa on Twitter and Instagram @melissastark.

DENIECE HOLLEY ROAHRIG, 2006

Deniece is a Lead for Deal Implementation and Fulfillment of Video & Podcasts at Spotify, where she directs multiple teams to oversee the production and programming of digital entertainment. Some of her podcast programs include Kim Kardashian, the Obamas, Harry & Meghan and Armchair Expert. Deniece has built her career in integrated media working at companies that include Buzzfeed, Complex and Fullscreen, Inc., after graduating with a B.S. from Syracuse University in Television, Radio, Film/Music Industry and African American Studies and a Master of Studies in Law, Entertainment Law and Industry from the USC Gould School of Law. In 2021, Deneice spoke with RPCS Upper Schoolers about her career and encouraged the students to value their lasting friendships and keep in touch to network. “Coming from a school like RPCS gives you an opportunity,” she told the students. “Someone from RPCS might be your inroad to your next job.”

CHRISTINE WERTHMAN, 2002

As a student at RPCS, Christine enjoyed attending concerts, hunting for new music and writing. She excelled in English class and thought she would major in the subject in college, but quickly narrowed her scope at Syracuse University, taking advantage of the school’s journalism and music industry programs. She graduated in 2006 with a B.S. in magazine journalism and a double minor in music history and music industry, and she moved to New York City shortly thereafter to pursue a career in music journalism. Christine spent her first couple of years in New York editing everything from an alt-weekly newspaper to a parenting magazine, while covering music as a freelance writer. She earned her M.A. in music, media and cultural studies from New York University in 2011, the same year she landed her first full-time job at a music publication. She has worked for CMJ, XXL and the entertainment website Complex., and she is currently the managing editor at Billboard magazine, where she has worked since 2017.

A Place in Our Hearts

Mr. Doug Forbes Honored at Alumnae Weekend

This past April, former Lower School music teacher Mr. Doug Forbes returned to campus for Alumnae Weekend and was officially named an honorary alumnus of Roland Park Country School! For 36 years, Mr. Forbes instilled a love of music in his students and created a culture of singing at RPCS. As a teacher, department chair and father figure to all, he fostered optimism and confidence, touched the hearts, minds and spirits of our community, and helped every student find their voice.

Mr. Forbes joins the Class of 2010 at the end of their Opening Day Convocation celebrations.

Although he retired in the spring of 2017, Mr. Forbes’ legacy remains strong today. During every Opening Day Convocation since 1981, our community collectively belts out the lyrics to “Let’s Go Singing,” an old Boy Scouts song Mr. Forbes learned in 1958. And every fall, the Lower School students perform a rendition of “Hodge Podge Halloween,” with older students who remember the lyrics joining in as well.

Mr. Forbes was known as the man behind the piano, but he is an accomplished organist, conductor and composer as well. He was the first Student Conductor of the United States Air Force Band in 1967 and conducted the premiere performance of the Boston Rock Symphony in Symphony Hall Boston in 1970. For the majority of his life, in addition to teaching, Mr. Forbes has also served as a Church Organist and Choirmaster. His musical talents began as a young boy singing with the Washington Cathedral Choir, and then refined and grew through his undergraduate and graduate degrees at the Boston Conservatory.

“Mr. Forbes has been an anchor at RPCS, proving that no matter what is going on in the world, or in our school community, there is a song for every occasion,” said Middle and Upper School music teacher Lisa Anne Diver, 2006. “He is known for his limitless energy, his wit and wisdom, and his ability to bring the best out of every single person.”

This page, clockwise from top left: Mr. Forbes chose to teach Lower School music because he wanted to provide students with an introduction to and the foundations of the world of music; Donning his clown costume every Halloween, Mr. Forbes delighted the students and reminded them to not take things too seriously; Mr. Forbes hamming it up on the first Day of School in 2016; Mr. Forbes’ joy for music was infectious. He was full of positivity and energy and gave everyone his complete attention; At the Alumnae Champagne Reception on Saturday, April 22, 2023, during Alumnae Weekend, Mr. Forbes (pictured here with Lisa Anne Diver, 2006) was officially named an honorary alumnus of Roland Park Country School!

14th Annual Alumnae Art Show with Cathy Counselman Kelly, 1974

We were honored to welcome photographer Cathy Counselman Kelly, 1974 back to RPCS last fall for our 14th Annual Alumna Art Show! Cathy was selected by the Arts Department and Alumnae Office as our 2022 Alumna Artist for the 2022-2023 school year.

Cathy spent the day with Middle School and Upper School art and photography students sharing her knowledge for capturing her one-of-a kind photographs. Cathy’s photo exhibit titled “Grand Landscapes and Intimate Wildlife” were on display in the Knott Lobby, showcasing close scenes of animals in their habitat and majestic scenes from across the United States. Her month long exhibit culminated with a closing reception enjoyed by alumnae, employees, classmates and her friends and family.

February

14,

Alumnae Valentine Legacy Luncheon

Amanda Behrens Buczynski, 1994, Ellen Crosby, 2027, and Katherine Behrens Crosby, 1990

Maggie Mazzulli, 2024, Kelly Donovan-Mazzulli, 1994, Mary Mazzulli, 2023, Suzannah Figler, 2023, and Jen Banister Figler, 1988

Abbe Creaney, 1994, with her three daughters, Ruby Walsh, 2027, Josiah Powe, 2017, and Violet Walsh, 2025

Tala Al-Talib, 2001 (top right) with her daughters, Aya Hasan, 2034 and Maryam Hasan, 2037, and sister Meena Al-Talib, 2007

Katy Spencer, 1993 and her daughter, Emily Spencer, 2036

Nea Curry, 2006 and her daughter, Madison Colón, 2028 Colette Corbin, 2030, Rosanna Best Corbin, 1994, Emmie Mink Frank, 1995, and Abby Frank, 2030

2004 classmates Cat Crowder, Katherine Fox Castro, Becca Warfield Smith, Sophie Mullens Phelps, and Dani Kell Steinbach with their children, Peter Crowder, 2038, Joan Crowder, 2035, Stella Castro, 2023, Milly Smith, 2034, Hollis Phelps, 2033, and Kaylee Steinbach, 2032

Brooke Grumbine, 1997 with nieces, Grayson Grumbine, 2034 and Parker Grumbine, 2031, Abby Bowers Gerken, 1997, with daughter, Isabel, 2029, Tammy Passano Wiggs, 1997 with daughters, Lizzy Wiggs, 2034, Ellie Wiggs, 2031, and Courtney Wiggs, 2029, Shannell Richardson Cockrell, 1997 and daughter Niya Cockrell, 2026, and Julia Garrett Randolph with her daughter, Anne Garrett Randolph, 2027

Mimi Roeder Vaughan, 1966, Liv Pizza, 2027, and Gina Pizza, 1994

March 8, 2023

100th Night Dinner

Earlier this spring, the Class of 2023 gathered for the annual 100th Night Dinner, a beloved tradition hosted by the Alumnae Board that started in the 1980s. Typically held the night before Senior Day, this special dinner marks 100 days until Commencement!

Ann Daniels, 1983 awarded the McCauley Bowl 2023

Past Recipients

1990: Eleanor Graham, 1916

1991: Helen Metcalfe Duncan, 1921 and Elizabeth Protzman Webb, 1921

1992: Judy Waters, 1950

1993: Marguerite Kelley, Honorary Alumna

1994: Kay Hamilton Cavanaugh, 1937

1995: Anne Healy, Honorary Alumna and former Headmistress (1950–1975)

1997: Peggy Webb Patterson, 1947

2000: Agness Fulton Bond, 1941

2002: Betty Ann Schmick Howard, 1957

2003: Celeste Woodward Applefeld, 1964

Congratulations to Ann Daniels, 1983, the 2023 recipient of the McCauley Bowl!

The McCauley Bowl is awarded periodically to an alumna or other member of the school community who has distinguished herself or himself through long service to the school and its graduates. This award is presented in memory of and in gratitude for the life of Bell Lazenby McCauley, 1931. Mrs. McCauley’s life of service defines the standards and values, which are used by the Board of the Alumnae Association in selecting recipients of this honor.

Ann is a devoted member of our community, serving in many roles from parent and alumna to former Board of Trustees member from 2002-2011. As a parent of recent graduate Josie Kalbfleisch, 2023, Ann has been a member of the Parents’ Association Board since 2015 in multiple roles co-chairing events including the uniform resale, Holiday Fair, RedRaiser and Red Hot Run. As an alumna, Ann has given back to her alma mater in countless ways. She was the reunion chair for her 30th and 35th Reunions and recently took part in serving on the reunion planning committee for her Class of 1983’s 40th Reunion. She also has shared her talents with our students as the 1998 Cum Laude speaker. Ann’s passion for giving back and philanthropy has been evident in her various roles as co-chair of the Centennial Campaign, a planning committee member for the A Place in Our Hearts Campaign in 2005, and most recently, was a part of the National Alumnae Division Committee for the This is Our Moment Campaign in 2020. We are so grateful for her unwavering service and dedication to Roland Park Country School!

Dr. Caroline Boeke, 2004 awarded the 2023 Distinguished Rising REDS Award

Congratulations to Caroline Boeke, 2004, who was selected as the third recipient of this year’s Distinguished Rising REDS Award! Established in 2021, the Distinguished Rising REDS Award celebrates an alumna under the age of 40 who has enhanced the reputation of Roland Park Country School through outstanding professional achievements, personal accomplishments, significant contributions to their community and/or engagement with RPCS.

As an accomplished epidemiologist, Caroline is the Director of Analytics and Implementation Research at the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI). She has worked for the past eight years at CHAI in supporting public sector health programs in low- and middle-income countries, including evaluations of new diagnostic technologies for people living with HIV across eight countries in Africa, hepatitis-C programs in India, Myanmar, Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, Rwanda and Nigeria, and a national sickle cell disease program in Ghana. Caroline’s consequential work supports these global projects by strengthening national health data systems, designing and implementing studies and evaluations of health programs, analyzing national health program data and using evidence to influence global guidance, national policies and programmatic decision making. Caroline’s professional accolades in making a global impact and her outstanding character, leadership and integrity all embody the spirit of our REDS community.

Past Recipients:

2006: Ginny Wood Delauney, 1964 and Janie Susemihl Griffin, 1974

2007: Jane D. J. Daniels, 1982

2008: Courtney Jones McKeldin, 1958 and Pam Miller Loya, 1969

2009: Lil Wise, 1950, posthumously

2010: Ann Wittich Warfield, 1948

2011: Jane Wilhelm Daniels, 1946

2012: Ingrid Boynton Polk, 1982

2013: Laurie McCulloch Fisher, 1963

2014: Mary Ellen Thomsen, Honorary Alumna

2015: Jean Waller Brune, 1960, Former Head of School (1992–2016)

2016: Libby Rutledge Murphy, Honorary Alumna

2017: Kathy Hudson, 1967

2018: Janet Bauer Hartman, 1968

2019: Diane Hutchins, 1972

2020: Judy Mitchell Wright, 1964 (Awarded in 2021 due to the pandemic)

2021: Carol Witz Hunt, 1976

2022: Cathy Huether McClelland, 1968

Ann Daniels, 1983 with her family, including husband, Eric Kalbfleisch and daughter Josie Kalbfleisch, 2023. She follows in the footsteps of her mother, Jane Wilhelm Daniels, 1946 (front) and sister, Jane D.J. Daniels (right), as past recipients of the McCauley Bowl.

ABOVE: A freshman at RPCS during the 20002001 academic year

Ann Daniels, 1983 (left) with Alumnae Association President Kelly Donovan-Mazzulli, 1994

2021: Morgan Katz Peters, 2002

2022: Necole Jackson, 2007

Alumnae Weekend

April 21 - April 23, 2023

Dushane Luncheon

Alumnae Charting a Bold Course

Members of the Class of 1963 enjoyed celebrating their 60th Reunion at the Dushane Luncheon Cathy Huether McClelland, 1968, Rachel Magruder Allen, 1968 and Lyn Stewart Simensen, 1968 are honored for their 55th Reunion

Alumnae enjoyed a performance by the 2022-2023 Semiquavers

Nicole Ari Parker Kodjoe, 1988 and Regina Boone, 1988

Sharing their impressive careers, the following alumnae served on the Bold Course panel (l. to r.) Nicole Ari Parker Kodjoe, 1988, Janet Lewin, 1988, Cary Zink Kassouf, 1995 (moderator), Carter Arnot Polakoff, 1993 and Tina Canady, 2013

Sisters Pam Townshend Neale, 1966, Nancy Townshend Haas, 1969, and Susan Townshend Townsend, 1963

Janet Lewin, 1988 and her niece, Violet Lewin, 2024

Champagne Reception

50th Walking Tour of Roland Park

1963 Classmates Bonnie Blackwood Stafford, Susan Townshend Townsend, Tania Mascarenhas Tavares (who traveled the farthest from Brazil), and Edie Chapman Gillis

Libby Baldwin Vernazza, Martha Fitzpatrick Bishai, and Margot Van Buskirk Hoerner from the Class of 1978

An Alumnae Weekend tradition, members of the Class of 1973 enjoyed a walking tour of the footpaths of Roland Park, led by Judy Dobbs, from the Friends of Maryland’s Olmsted Parks and Landscape.

Receiving the REDS Plate are Reunion Giving Chairs Cathy Huether McClelland, 1968 and Rachel Magruder Allen, 1968 for raising the most money for RPCS in honor of their 55th Reunion!

Celebrating their 20th Reunion are members of the Class of 2003

Members of the 2022-2023 Alumnae Board

Reunion Giving Chairs for the Class of 1983, Nicole Migeon and Aimee Johnson Westbrook with the ROSE Vase, presented to the reunion class with the greatest participation in the Annual Fund!

The Class of 1993 celebrated their 30th Reunion - and Mr. Forbes, who was named Honorary Alum!

50th Tea with 5th Grade Pen Pals

Pickleball

The Class of 1973 returns to RPCS for the start of Alumnae Weekend to meet their 5th Grade Pen Pals

Suzi Keats Cordish, 1973 with Pen Pals, Sienna Rosenberg, 2030 and Emmy Szokoly, 2030

Sarah Savage, 2030, Brooke Smith, 2030 and Bettye Smith Cochrane, 1973

Tatum Jackson, 2030, Ashley Newcomb, 2030, Jessie Roth Frederick Goyne, 1973 and Allyn Dike, 2030

Anne Holly, 2013 shined on the court!

Teammates and 1973 Classmates, Mollie Miller and Josie Dix

Macy Berk-Jones, 2030, Grace Vassil, 2030, and Meg Shepard, 1973

The competition was fierce for Pickleball and Bridget Hollon, 2008 and Cathy Hebert, 2008, second and third from left, were the Champs!

Crab Feast

Sunday Brunch and Mimosas!

TOP: From the Class of 1963 Ginna Naylor, Tania Mascarenhas Tavares, Susan Townshend Townsend, and Frannie Rutherford BOTTOM LEFT: Sisters Deeley Close Middleton, 1979 and Betsy Close, 1977 BOTTOM RIGHT: Classmates Maria Mainolfi, 1999 and Maya Tasher Barron, 1999

Members of the Class of 2003, Morgan Wright, Molly Frew Peterson, Clara Clark, 2025, Hannah Whitman Clark, Ashley Dent Eklund, and Sonya Kline Clark along with Dylan Otterbein Volk, 2012

1963 Classmates Frannie Rutherford and Bonnie Blackwood Stafford, 1963 with Cora Wise, Frannie’s sister-in-law.

Charlotte Jacobson, Laurel Payne, Sarah Mandel, and Martha Isaacs from the Class of 2013

Eva Frankel, 2016, Daniela Frankel, 2014, Valerie Searles, 2014, Abigail Kaiser, Isabella Thomas, 2014, and Vivian Craig, P’07 and mom of Necole Jackson, 2007

Tina Canady, 2013, Marilyn Martin, P’13 who is Tina’s mom, Josh Perry, Lindsay Wilson, 2009, and Kim Wilson, P’04, P’09 and MS and US Library Assistant

Class Reunions

Class of 1958 – 65th Reunion

Class of 1968 – 55th Reunion

Class of 1978 – 45th Reunion

Class of 1983 – 40th Reunion

Class of 1973 – 50th Reunion

Class of 1988 – 35th Reunion

Class of 1993 – 30th Reunion

Class of 1998 – 25th Reunion

Class of 2013 – 10th Reunion

Class of 2018 – 5th Reunion

Class of 2003 – 20th Reunion

Class of 2008 – 15th Reunion

Regional and Class Gatherings

Members of the Class of 1984 gathered in November to celebrate 50 years since they were in first grade!

Last Fall, New York City area alumnae donned their purple and black to cheer on the Baltimore Ravens!

San Francisco area alumnae met with Caroline Blatti, Head of School at the home of Kelsey Twist Schroeder, 2001.

The Boston Regional Gathering was held at the home of Liz Serotte, 1998 and co-hosted by Anna Hitchner, 1998.

Alumnae and past parents toured the Virginia Hall, 1924 exhibit at the International Spy Museum and attended a reception that followed for the Washington, DC area Regional Gathering in early April.

The 2022-2023 Alumnae Board at the September Dinner and Meeting at Caroline Blatti’s house.

Class Notes are included in the hard copy of this publication. Contact communications@rpcs.org if you want a copy!

Our sympathies to the families and friends of:

1947

Lou Dukes Pine, 1947

Mother of Peggy Pine Utermohle, 1977, Grandmother of Claire Utermohle Chilbert, 2013 and Lauren Pine, 2015, Sister-in-law of Harriet Pine Dukehart, 1927 (deceased) and Francis Pine Stevens, 1934 (deceased) 12/10/2022

1948

Nancy Curtis Blaine, 1948 3/15/2023

1950

Susie Passano Macfarlane, 1950

Daughter of Ida Kemp Cockey Passano, 1921, Mother of Margie Macfarlane Long, 1976, Grandmother of Kate Long, 2005, Ellie Macfarlane, 2014, and Irene Macfarlane, 2018, Cousin of Mac Passano, BA 1960, Cousin of Catherine Passano McDonnell, 1994, Tammy Passano Wiggs, 1997, and Sarah Passano Meech, 2001, Cousin of Emma McDonnell, 2022, Abby McDonnell, 2024, Cate McDonnell, 2027, Courtney Wiggs, 2029, Ellie Wiggs, 2031, and Lizzy Wiggs, 2034 8/2/2022

1953

Jeanie Horst Gore, 1953 1/8/2023

Stuart Bodine Moore, 1953

Sister of Jennifer Bodine, 1966 9/14/2023

1955

Barbara Hocker Simmons, 1955

Sister of Carole Hocker McCrory, 1962, StepAunt of Brooke McCrory, 1986, Great Aunt of Francesca Shek, 2020, Caroline Schmidt, 2021, and Georgia Schmidt, 2024 8/28/2022

1958 Margaret Frizzell Powell, 1958

9/13/2022

1961

Cathy Turner Carter, 1961

Sister of Lin Turner Hardy, 1964 and Anne Turner Lawler, 1975, Sister-in-law of Martha Nesbitt Turner, 1971, Cousin of Marietta Koch Nolley, 1967 and Rebecca Koch, 1969

12/6/2022

1963

Susan Russell, 1963

Aunt of C. Neal Russell Yanez, 1991 and Great Aunt of Paige Russell, 2032 and Alexis Russell, 2028

1/1/2023

1968

Susan Strahan, 1968

Sister of Nancy Strahan, 1970 and Sally Strahan Matthews, 1975, Aunt of Becky Blackstone, 2015

12/28/2022

1982

Julia Smith Macdonald, 1982

Sister of Cary Smith Mason, 1979, Aunt of Allie Mason Hoffberg, 2011

4/6/2023

2003

Angela Jean Shingleton, 2003

7/4/2022

Former Faculty

Lorraine T. Green

First Director of Multicultural Affairs

Mother of Cynthia Green, 1975 (deceased) and Lisa Green Hall, 1983

Employee: 1989 - 1998

8/15/2022

Nancy Potter deLaski

Former Middle School Administrative Assistant

Mother of Ellen deLaski Yudt, 1986

Employee: 1980 - 1995

9/14/2022

Claudia Ann Sandberg

Former Assistant to the Head of School, Jean Waller Brune, 1960

Employee : 1980 - 1995

1/26/2022

Rose Hammann

Employee: 1986 - 1997

1/7/2023

We extend our sympathy to the family of Byron “Biff” Perry Fink, III, who passed away last November. Biff was the Upper School music teacher from 1977-1983 and was well known for writing original compositions for the annual Christmas Program, including “Mary, Mary,” “Quiet as Christmas,” and “Feels Like Heaven.” He will be remembered for his patience, kind heart and many musical talents. Described as “a reverent soul with a playful spirit” in his obituary, Biff was also a grand storyteller and remarkable listener. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Mary Daniel Fink; sister Eleanor Kathryn Fink Hughes; daughters Jenny Randolph Merritt (former member of the Class of 1989) and Sarah Williams Fink; and son Daniel “Danny” Minckler Fink and their families.

Alumnae Legacy Relations for the Class of 2023

Front Row, left to right: Katie Currie

Elizabeth Currie, 2020, Sister

Jessie Behrens

Nicole Behrens, 2020, Sister

Amelia Rhea

Barbara Hull Francis, 1960, Grandmother

Heath Foster, 1983, Aunt

Sarah Foster Rhea, 1989, Mother

Hannah Rhea, 2019, Sister

Ellie Rhea, 2021, Sister

Joy Reynolds

Mary McCormick Meyer, 1965, Grandmother

Alice McCormick Meiners, 1967, Great Aunt

Janet Meyer Euwer, 1990, Mother

Caroline Hobelmann

Elizabeth Bennett Downey, 1934, Great Great Aunt*

Louise White, 1955, Great Aunt

Bennett White Swingle, 1962, Grandmother

Marcy Swingle, 1990, Aunt

Betsey Swingle Hobelmann, 1993, Mother

Madison Devine

Monique Pitts, 1991, Cousin

Second row, left to right:

Josie Kalbfleisch

Mary Wilhelm Barton, 1945, Great Aunt

Jane Daniels, 1946, Grandmother

Ann Lord-Brezniak, 1968, Cousin

Charlotte Baker Lord, 1968, Cousin

Jane Daniels, 1982, Aunt

Ann Daniels, 1983, Mother

Annie Calhoun, 2016, Cousin

Grace Calhoun, 2017, Cousin

Alexandra Goodale

Elizabeth Goodale, 2020, Sister

Caroline Gaines

Liz Brune, 1982, Aunt

Martha Brune Gaines, 1985, Mother

Courtney Hicks

Casey Hicks, 2020, Sister

Hannah Zink

Catherine deVilliers, 1968, Great Aunt

Anne Zink, 1993, Cousin

Cary Zink Kassouf, 1995, Cousin

Beth Robinson deVilliers, 1996, Aunt

Laura Zink Haller, 1997, Cousin

Evelyn Zink, HA, Cousin

Angelina Litrenta

Bella Litrenta, 2017, Sister

Sophia Litrenta, 2019, Sister

Third row, left to right: Suzannah Figler

Peggy Coffin Widman, 1962, Grandmother

Jen Banister Figler, 1988, Mother

Susan Hovanec, 1988, Godmother

Annie Drake

Keating Drake, 2020, Sister

Gracen Drake, 2022, Sister

Maggie Waldron

Julie Rider Waldron, 1991, Aunt

Maddie Tannebaum

Jill Tannebaum, 1984, Mother*

Carter Kelly

Tori Fingles, 1995, Aunt

Maggie Kelly, 2021, Sister

Grayson Woodward

Becky Colt-Ferguson, 1976, Aunt

Meg Ferguson, 2003, Cousin

Peyton Woodward, 2020, Sister

Stella Castro

Katharine Fox Castro, 2004, Step-Mother

Alayna Nwadike

Tiana Redfern Oguaman, 1999, Mother

Mary Mazzulli

Debbie Donovan Smith, 1975, Aunt

Christine Donovan, 1976, Aunt

Mary Donovan O’Hern, 1983, Aunt

Kelly Donovan-Mazzulli, 1994, Mother

Katie O’Hern, 2012, Cousin

Kelly O’Hern, 2014, Cousin

Molly O’Hern, 2016, Cousin

Emma Wetzel

Ceci Wetzel, 2022

Shapard Croft

Carol Croft Linde, 1982, Aunt

Kelly Gibson

Alayna Gibson, 2020, Sister

Back row, left to right:

Alumnae babies!

Becky Winter Thompson, 1995 Wesley Thompson Wenger

Gillian Humphrey Kijanka, 1997 Millie Simone Kijanka

Melissa Torres, 1998 Nalah Eva Torres

Sabrina Johnson Turner, 1998 Roman Schechter

Meri Price, 2001 Margaret “Maggie” Price

Dani Kell Steinbach, 2004 Kamdyn Moore Steinbach

Nkenge Wheatland, 2004 Jackson Pethick

Nancy Kwan, 2004 Dawson Henry Eng

Stacy Cooper Kirsch, 2005 Ella Margo Kirsch

Lawrie Peck Givner, 2005 Alice Kathryn Givner

Sarah Pope, 2006 Sarah Anne “Sadie” Dozier Pope

Cate Goytisolo Ilardo, 2006 Chloe Florence Ilardo

Loretta Lee, 2006 Leila Lee Cole

Joanna Taylor Iacobucci, 2006 Marlene “Leni” Iacobucci

Brooke Christofferson Gill, 2006 Avery Marie Gill

Laura Hearn Kameen, 2006 Blair “Beau” Wingfield Kameen

Lauren Sless Wells, 2008 Sarah Jane Wells

Savannah Bass Koplon, 2008 Nell Alice Koplon

Ashley Grebow Jeshiva, 2009 Mason Shane Jeshiva

Courtney Kuhn Callegary, 2009 Grant Kenneth Callegary

Jen Arman Lieberman, 2009 Landon Lieberman

Sarah Saxon Rentfro, 2009 Olivia Rentfro

Alexandra Pace Hill, 2010 Braxton Xavier Hill

Liza Barley Kameen, 2010 Sara Collins Kameen and Cotter Wingfield Kameen

Haley Venick Paglia, 2011 Carter Joseph Paglia

Niki Steel Phillips, 2011 Scotti Lee Phillips

Alyssa Cestello Gilland, 2011 Elle Gilland

Abbie Mitchell MacKinnon, 2006 Alexander “Xander” MacKinnon

Julie Taylor Schultz, 2006 Vivian Catherine Schultz

Meghan Murphy Houghton, 2006 Adelie “Addie” Murphy Houghton

Liza Lacy Connor, 2006 Mary Connor

Elizabeth Robertson Chriss, 2006 Edward “Teddy” James Alevizatos Chriss

Heather Brake, 2006 Briggs Edward Downing

Brittany Kalkstein Kulik, 2006 Coco Rose Kulik

Rebecca Clark Stoyanova, 2007 Denimir “Deni” Simeonov Stoyanov

INDUCTION CEREMONY

SEPTEMBER 8, 2023

Inductees will also be honored during halftime at the Sally E. Nyborg Field Hockey Game on September 9 at 10 a.m. For more information, visit rpcs.org/AHOF.

SAVE THE DATE

RED HOT RUN

ROLAND PARK COUNTRY SCHOOL 5K AND FAMILY FUN WALK

11.05.23

run // walk // volunteer cheer // inspire

SAVE THE DATE

05.06.24

Imagining the possibilities!

Our students of all ages are encouraged to find, explore and celebrate their unlimited potential.

ROLAND PARK COUNTRY SCHOOL

5204 Roland Avenue

Baltimore, MD 21210