Connections 2022

BEGINNINGS

From The Head Of School

As we share this year’s issue of Connections with you, I am filled with a deep sense of poignancy and appreciation for our entire community. Given the extraordinary challenges we have all faced over the last few years, what we have achieved together reflects abiding characteristics that define RPCS at our core: a strong sense of purpose and a passion for excellence in teaching and learning.

Over the past 12 months, we have continued to strengthen our offerings in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) and STEM, with more exciting changes on the horizon (see page 16 to learn more). We welcomed back several of our graduates to speak with our Upper School students about their remarkable careers for our annual Professional Connections event (page 30) and we celebrated our outstanding Class of 2022! Read more about our newest alumnae and see where they are headed to college on page 12. Throughout these pages, we share highlights of the year from our Athletics teams, Performing and Visual Arts departments and rich academic programs. I also loved reading this year’s Class Notes, with so many wonderful updates from our alumnae who are making up for lost time after the last two years with weddings, travel, fresh starts … and of course, pickleball!

In this issue, we also look forward and celebrate new beginnings. We are thrilled to welcome a new Middle School Head, Margaret Lofgren, who you can learn more about on page 20. Several of our current school leaders are evolving into brand-new roles, which will position us well as we head into the 20222023 school year (see page 22). As I plan and dream for what lies ahead, I am confident that our past experiences will help guide our future. You can read more of my reflections about this topic on page 14.

As a school community, we galvanize around a shared purpose every day: to support, encourage, challenge and enrich the lives of our students. Joy, hard work, training, expertise, relationships, support, and deep emotions are wrapped up in this every step along the way.

So, here is to new beginnings for all of us. No matter where we are in our lives, there is something so hopeful about a fresh start, which we are lucky to experience with the dawn of every day. Thank you for being on this journey with us and for your continued support as we begin, again.

Warmly, Caroline Blatti Head of School

Dear Roland Park Country School Community,

Within These Walls

REOPENING OF THE HARRIS CENTER

Last fall, the Board of Trustees and campaign committee and chairs, along with distinguished chairs of the This Is Our Moment Campaign, joined all students, teachers and employees to celebrate the reopening of the Harris Center at a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony! “Today, we are celebrating a renovation that imbues fresh energy, vitality, light and vibrancy into our central means of accessing our campus,”

Caroline Blatti, Head of School, told the audience. “It is a space that connects and upholds, opens and bridges together all who enter and exit through these doors.” We are so grateful to everyone who has contributed to the overwhelming success of this campaign and helped us surpass our goal!

CYBERPATRIOTS NATIONAL COMPETITION

Last fall, our Little Reds friends in the 2s, 3s and 4s classes walked, jogged and even sprinted through our Backwoods as parents, teachers, kindergarteners and Upper School students cheered them on along the route in the first annual Little Reds Turkey Trot! It was a fun new holiday tradition to kick off the Thanksgiving weekend.

Congratulations to our CyberPatriot team who competed last winter in CyberPatriot XIV, a national competition where students completed challenges and skills assessments regarding computer security risks, forensic problems and networking issues. This year’s team advanced to the semifinals, the furthest an RPCS team has ever gone! They ranked in the top 25 percent of over 3,100 teams! Congratulations to Charlotte Corcoran, 2022, Ellie Dassoulas, 2022 Oye Fadiora, 2024, Katherine Guerrerio, 2023, Mo’Riyah Johnson, 2023 and Rebecca Showalter, 2024

This year, our students in grades 1-3 loved planting and harvesting vegetables in our school gardens and then preparing meals from their bounty. We are so thankful that parents and guardians were allowed back on campus for the Fall and Spring Harvest Feasts – a beloved Lower School event!

BROADWAY MEETS ROLAND AVENUE

The entire seventh grade, along with the Semiquavers, met virtually in the spring with Broadway actress Brittney Johnson, who currently plays Glinda in “Wicked!” Brittney is the first Black woman to play this iconic role and the students could not have been more excited to chat with her over Zoom and ask all of their questions! Brittney, who has also held roles in “Les Misérables,” “Mamma Mia,” “Motown,” and more, spoke to the students about her career and enjoyed answering questions about her professional and personal challenges.

PEPPER!

The Upper School Student Athletic Association, in partnership with the Athletics Department, organized a yearlong naming contest for our bear mascot. The name was announced at our first annual Feel the Joy Convocation … meet Pepper!

ATHLETICS X GLI SPEAKER SERIES

Last fall, RPCS announced a unique collaborative effort between our Athletics Department and the Gore Leadership Institute (GLI) to launch Athletics x GLI, a monthly speaker series for our Middle School and Upper School students. The series showcased individuals whose athletic endeavors have led to inspirational leadership experiences. Guests included Olympic rower Claire Collins, Virginia Tech lacrosse player and podcast host Mary Griffin, 2019, and Assistant Lacrosse Coach and Offensive Coordinator at Johns Hopkins University, Kristen Carr.

Mary Griffin, 2019 was one of this year's Athletics x GLI speakers

Within These Walls

Celebrating. Singing. Dancing. Smiling. The inaugural all-school Feel the Joy Convocation in the spring was the epitome of our beloved RPCS culture! The entire school came together to honor those employees who have exemplified a passion and love for RPCS, as well as those who celebrated milestone years of service and who retired at the end of the 2021-2022 school year. We were awed by singing and dancing performances, including two numbers that combined the talents of both Upper School and Lower School student artists.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSICAL REVUE

REDS PLAY DAY

In honor of International Day of the Girl, RPCS hosted our first REDS Play Day last October. Current students and children from the community spent the day with Upper School athletes and our coaches learning all about what our athletics program offers. From rowing in the crew tank to chipping advice from Varsity golfers, all of our 15 sports were highlighted! REDS Play Day was the perfect way to celebrate girls in sports achieving greatness together.

In March, our Middle School students, teachers and production team delivered three incredible performances of the Middle School Musical Revue! Acts included singing, dancing and monologues, and every number was a hit. We are so proud of the cast, crew and everyone else involved behind the scenes for making this possible!

In the spring, RPCS was thrilled to welcome awardwinning author Edwidge Danticat as the featured speaker for our annual Anne Healy Lecture. After meeting with the seventh and eighth graders for informal Q&As, Ms. Danticat shared a visual presentation of her life and career with the Upper Schoolers and read from one of her short stories, “Legends,” before answering questions from the students. During the evening presentation, she read excerpts from Everything Inside, her book of short stories, and spoke with the audience about her writing process, her favorite form of writing, her approach to writing about death, and the power of storytelling.

Photo credit: Lynn Savarese Photography

INAUGURAL GORE LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE SHOWCASE

In the spring, the Gore Leadership Institute hosted an inaugural showcase featuring the work of our Upper School students over the past year. Students in grades 9-11 shared presentations their work in Leadership Seminars, Advanced Leadership Seminars and Independent Studies. Guests also enjoyed cooking demonstrations, an improv show, social justice installation art, and more.

From podcasts highlighting women in business and teenage mental health to TikTok accounts on parenting, the students shared their leadership passions and skills with friends and family.

In April, the Upper School met with RPCS alumna Tina Canady, 2013, director of a movie called Breathing Black, in which she, along with an all-Black creative team, interviewed Black Baltimoreans about their connection to joy, healing and breath. Tina, who holds a BFA in drama from NYU, spoke to the Upper School and provided them with a viewing of the movie, which premiered at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum last December and was recently selected for the 2022 Columbia Film Festival.

DODGEBALL UPSET!

The annual Upper School Dodgeball Tournament was back in the gym this year, and the entire school could hear the excitement! The seniors made a powerful showing, but didn’t make it to the final game this year – the honor of which went to the freshman and junior classes. With only one girl left standing on the freshman lines, the Class of 2023 won! Congratulations to all of our players.

This year’s Second Grade Marketplace was a huge success. Students from all divisions, as well as faculty and staff, perused the market to purchase one of the many unique products that were handmade by the students. Customers walked out of the door with glitter globes, stress balls, critter keychains/magnets, glitter notebooks, slime, bracelets, hair ties, sugar scrubs and pencil toppers. The creativity of the products, paired with the business knowledge the girls developed over the past few months, led to a successful event where customers and business owners left happy.

Beyond These Walls

This year, our REDS were more grateful than ever to expand their learning outside of the classroom by venturing out into our greater communities. Here are just a few examples of how our students explored the world around them to further engage in their own education.

A Social Justice and Civil Rights Trip to Remember

In the spring, our eighth graders spent an incredible weeklong social justice journey to Atlanta, Georgia, and Birmingham, Montgomery, and Selma, Alabama. This muchanticipated trip was the culmination of a human rights and social justice unit, which gave the Class of 2026 the opportunity to see the places that were integral in the Civil Rights Movement and meet people who were impacted by this time in history. Through visits to museums, national monuments, memorials, and other historic sites, the students considered themes including how a person’s social identity shapes their experiences in the United States and the world and how historical context helps us better understand current events.

The Smith Philanthropic Literacy Board Provides $5,000 to Baltimore Safe Haven

Congratulations to Baltimore Safe Haven, the 2021-2022 nonprofit grant recipient from The Smith Philanthropic Literacy Board at RPCS! The Smith Philanthropic Literacy Board (PLB) is a student-run group in The Gore Leadership Institute that is endowed by Cheryl BernardSmith and Chip Smith, P'24. Uniting students’ growing understanding of the critical issues facing the Baltimore community with the opportunity to effect positive change, juniors and seniors select a mission for the year, oversee the grant proposal process, evaluate applications from local organizations, and select an organization they feel should be awarded the funds. This spring, they presented the $5,000 check to Baltimore Safe Haven, an organization that provides transgender, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer people living in Baltimore with opportunities to thrive.

REDS in NYC

Last May, the eighth grade Art of the Musical class went to New York City to see “Beetlejuice” on Broadway! It was such a treat to see a live performance in the Big Apple!

Service Learning in Baltimore

Last December, our Middle School students participated in an annual Immersion Day of service learning. Groups of students went offsite to volunteer their time and efforts at the Maryland Food Bank, Manna House, Lake Roland, Cylburn Arboretum, Great Kids Farm, Art with a Heart or the Stadium Place retirement facilities. The students handled the service learning trips incredibly well and represented themselves and RPCS with integrity and pride.

Semis Sing at Camden Yards

Last May, the Semiquavers, Roland Park Country School’s auditioned music ensemble, sang the National Anthem at an Orioles game at Camden Yards. This is the fourth time Middle and Upper School Music Teacher Ms. Lisa Diver, 2006 has led the Semis in singing the National Anthem for an O’s game and everyone had an amazing time!

Model UN Summit in Philadelphia

Upper School students traveled to Philadelphia last winter to participate in the Model UN (United Nations) Summit. Our students worked hard in seven-plus hour sessions, discussing world problems such as trade disputes, hunger and poverty, resource disagreements, human rights violations, global warming, nuclear disarmament, international security, public health, and many more. We were excited and proud to see multiple REDS stepping up to the committee session microphones and pushing their ideas and items for resolution papers.

The Class of 2029 Field Trip to Annapolis

In March, our fifth graders visited Annapolis, our state's capital, for an incredible learning experience as the class participated in a tour to see where and how legislation is created. Some of the students were even able to meet their congressional representatives, to whom they had written letters earlier in the school year.

Athletics: Cheering on

REDS!

The REDS are back! Following an unusual year of reimagined sports seasons, last fall we returned to a more normal athletic experience for all of our student athletes and sports teams. Check out some of this year’s highlights and a sneak peek into what this next year will bring!

Next Level REDS

Six members of the Class of 2022 committed to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Two student athletes signed National Letters of Intent in the early signing period last fall, and four REDS were celebrated at our spring signing ceremony.

Congratulations to:

Maddie Current Bowdoin College, softball

Ellie Dassoulas University of Delaware, lacrosse

Madison Goldstein Denison University, lacrosse

Garrison Morrill Vanderbilt University, lacrosse Becky Mulcahy Macalester College, soccer

Laura Sacktor Mount Holyoke College, rowing

Badminton Champion

Congratulations to Kendall Keehner, 2022, who won the IAAM Badminton A Conference singles individual championship this past spring! Kendall entered the postseason tournament as the #5 seed and defeated four straight opponents in bracket play to claim the 1st place medal.

pictured: Laura Sacktor

Looking Ahead to the 2022-2023 Season

We are excited to welcome Elizabeth Blaum and Patrick Donohue in their new roles within our Athletics department! Go REDS!

Elizabeth Blaum has been appointed as the school’s Varsity Field Hockey Head Coach. Elizabeth joined the RPCS community in the fall of 2021 as Associate Director of College Counseling and Assistant Field Hockey Coach. She previously served as the Head Field Hockey Coach at Virginia Episcopal School from 2012-2020, leading their program to seven state quarterfinals, one state semifinal and one Blue Ridge Conference Championship.

As for our running REDS, Patrick Donohue has been appointed Director of Track & Field at RPCS, a newly established role at the school. Patrick will provide comprehensive leadership across divisions for all three of the school’s running programs – cross country, indoor track and track & field. In addition to this new role, Patrick has also worked diligently to create the REDS Track Club, a program launching this fall on campus that will provide year-round club running opportunities for boys and girls in the Baltimore community.

Welcome Back, Crew!

Following a long hiatus due to COVID limitations, the rowing team was back on the water in the spring in several regattas, including the Mid-Atlantic Junior Regional Championship in Princeton, New Jersey. Regularly dealing with poor weather conditions, the team really took advantage of the indoor tank for workouts throughout the season. From our Varsity rowers who raced well in the regattas, to the novice rowers who learned very quickly – and even broke several school records on the rowing machines – it was a season full of hard work and gratitude for the opportunity to compete in the sport again.

“RPCS athletes are spirited, exciting, competitive and fun! I am beyond thrilled to build upon our strongly knit sports community as the Athletic Association President. I look forward to working with my fellow peers to brainstorm new ideas and activities as well as continue the awesome RPCS traditions that bring so much joy and school pride to everyone.”

AMELIA RHEA, 2023 Upper School Athletic Association President

Celebrating the Arts

The student artists at RPCS were thrilled to share their talents and passions with the community this year. From in-person performances in the Sinex Theater, including winter and spring concerts for all divisions, visual art shows throughout campus, and creative projects in the art studios and classroom at every grade level, here is a glimpse into the beautiful art and memorable performances from the 2021-2022 school year.

PERFORMING ARTS: TOP: Our fourth graders were in sync with bucket drumming to “Yuck“ by Skye Kooyman at the Lower School Spring Concert. SECOND ROW, L TO R: All the “Stars“ were on our eighth grade dancers with a performance to this hit song by Kendrick Lamar and SZA at the Middle School Spring Concert. | Senior Semiquavers with Nysa Gandhi, 2022, on the guitar, performed “Landslide“ by Stevie Nicks in their last concert as students. | For the third year in a row, the Roses collaborated with RPCS and Roses alumna Sydnie L. Mosley, 2003, in a dance residency program spanning several months. Last fall, the Roses worked with Sydnie and members of her dance company to create a piece that was performed in the Upper School Winter Concert THIRD ROW, L TO R: Samiyah Norris, Makenzie Pridgen and Blessing Darden, all from the Class of 2023, wowed the audience at the Upper School Spring Dance Concert with their incredible performance to the song “I’m Tired” by Labrinth and Zendaya. | Our Middle School students performed a beautiful rendition of “Get on Board, Little Children“ with handbells at their Winter Concert. | For the first time in two years, our Lower School students performed their Winter Concert in front of a live audience! BOTTOM ROW: The kindergarten class and Semiquavers shared a tender moment while singing “Rainbow Connection” together at the Upper School Spring Choral Concert. Kenna Mitchell, 2022, sang and performed sign language with kindergartners Gigi C. and Charlotte W.

VISUAL ARTS: TOP, L TO R: Forty-four Upper School students participated in the Memory Project last winter, with direction from Upper School Art Teacher, Emily Rohrer, 2002. Each RPCS student was given an image by a Nigerian child to then paint a portrait of that child to be shared back in Nigeria. We are so proud of our students who were a part of this global project with the mission of creating a kinder world through art. | The Eighth Grade Art Show last winter featured two works of art by each first-semester art student from the Class of 2026, including expressive self-portraits that were inspired by pop artist Andy Warhol’s bright, vibrant self-portraits, which convey a particular mood or emotion. | In the spring, our fifth graders created amazing split-portraits in pencil and watercolor. Through drawing with contour lines and implied lines and value, students created work that displayed their artistic growth throughout Lower School. Fifth grader Eloise F.’s self-portrait (pictured above) was selected for this year’s permanent art collection.

SECOND ROW: Our Upper School Ceramics Exhibit was on full display in the Knott Lobby earlier this past winter, featuring pieces from our first semester Upper School students. The ceramic pieces ranged from wheel-thrown, slab-rolled, extruded, coiled, figurative, press-molded, stamped, component-assembled and mixedmedia combinations of clay plus other materials to create phenomenal artistic pieces. THIRD ROW: As a response to a former piece on the wall getting knocked down and damaged, an incredible mosaic mural designed by Stella Castro, 2023 and lovingly facilitated by Upper School ceramics teacher Ms. Rivkin was created and installed in the Upper School center stairway. Many other students, teachers and staff were also involved in the project. BOTTOM: Last fall, our first and fourth graders spent time in art class creating amazing multimedia works of art that were then showcased in our Winter Concert program and holiday cards.

Congratulations

TO OUR NEWEST ALUMNAE!

Arizona State University

Auburn University Barnard College Boston College Boston University

Bowdoin College (2) Bowie State University Bucknell University Clemson University Connecticut College

Denison University Elon University (2) Fordham University

Goucher College

Hobart William Smith Colleges Howard University Lafayette College Lehigh University (2)

Louisiana State University Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Maryland

Macalester College

Morgan State University Mount Holyoke College

Mount Saint Mary’s University New York University (7)

Ohio State University

Pennsylvania State University Saint Louis University Skidmore College (2)

Southern Methodist University Stevenson University Syracuse University

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of Tampa (2)

The University of Tennessee (2) Tulane University (2) UCLA

University of Arizona University of California, Berkeley University of Delaware (2)

University of Maryland, College Park (4) University of Massachusetts University of Miami University of Michigan University of Pennsylvania University of Richmond (2) University of San Diego University of South Carolina (4) University of Virginia Vanderbilt University Villanova University Virginia Tech Wake Forest University Washington and Lee University Washington University in St. Louis

Wellesley College

Wheaton College Xavier University of Louisiana

“I hope we are remembered for what we have done, how we have persevered, and the ways in which we have learned. We deserve to be seen not for what we have lost, but for what we have to offer.”

– ELLEN SALOVAARA, 2022 COMMENCEMENT SENIOR SPEAKER

Class

Class of 2022 By the Numbers

3 of our seniors attended RPCS for 12 years

15 of our seniors attended RPCS for 13 years

3 of our seniors attended RPCS for 14 years

41% of seniors participated in a summer internship, capstone fellowship or STEM fellowship

Our seniors completed over 8,000 total hours of community service

The Class of 2022 will attend 58 colleges in 21 states and Washington, D.C.

20 students will attend attend a state's flagship university in 13 different states

80 seniors received 338 college acceptances

4 students are attending HBCUs (historically Black colleges and universities)

3 students are attending women’s colleges

14 seniors are attending Liberal Arts colleges

17 seniors chose colleges where RPCS students have not enrolled for the past five years

6 seniors will go on to compete in intercollegiate athletics

1 students is choosing a gap year experience

11 seniors earned the World Languages Certificate

10 seniors earned the Holliday Heine STEM Certificate

To Begin

To begin again, and again. To take a step back. To move forward. Each of these actions has taken on incredibly weighted significance over the last few years. The public health and social justice challenges that shaped our last two and a half years of school life tested our ability to renew, reset, and move forward. Some days, putting one foot in front of the other to move forward was all that we could muster personally and professionally. But our community did just that: we showed up. Teachers gave their all. Students remained nimble and pushed forward against a backdrop of increasing and wide-ranging national and global complexities. Parents and guardians remained understanding and offered grace — time and again. Even as we longed for normalcy, we remained a community united around a common purpose: our love for Roland Park Country School.

Reflections from Caroline Blatti, Head of School

During the last few years, we have continuously been in a state of disequilibrium, seeking safety, structure, the known, the familiar. Falling short at times, we persisted day by day. We improvised. We adjusted. We adapted. In the leadership writing of Ron Heifetz, he shares a few important and relevant points to help us process where we are today. In times of disequilibrium, we will seek to adapt and adjust to achieve the feeling and/ or reality of equilibrium. Heifitz reminds us: “Living systems seek equilibrium… Adapting to human challenges requires that we go beyond the requirements of simply surviving.”

In our valiant efforts to seek equilibrium during challenging times, we were creating any approximation we could for a path back towards the things we once knew to be true and certain.

If necessity forced us into a state of continual adaption, where do we go from here? Because loss, stress and a lack of control defined many of our days over the last few years, how do we define the period we are in now? And perhaps the larger question is, what does all of what we have learned mean for the path forward for RPCS?

Here is what this means for us: We found out that we are stronger than we ever expected. We recognized a need to draw upon our expertise in student wellness. Always a priority for RPCS, now more than ever the resilience of our students is directly correlated to the people, programs and spaces supporting all our students. We also learned that our faculty need to be cared for and supported in new and unique ways coming out of teaching under a continual state of duress. We know from national trends and from the voices of our own employees that we need to work harder to prioritize their wellness and come together to support the adults in the community.

We have also learned a great deal about what our students want and need in their learning environment. Our students are ready to take on the world. This generation of students is actively engaged in the issues that we all face as a global community. I see our students expressing their passions and interests in connecting classroom learning to community change. I see our school continuing to evolve and develop new and innovative programs that give our students direct access and experiences to live out our core values: seek and embrace diversity; live healthy and be well; take a seat at the table; and lead for the greater good. Despite the challenges we faced, I am so proud of where we are headed as a school. Our newly endowed Holliday Heine STEM and Gore Leadership Institutes, the launch of our new Certificate of Arts Distinction program and the creation of Stronger Together, our first ever Diversity, Equity and Inclusion action plan, are just a few of many examples that define where we are headed in the next phase of our journey.

In short, we need to begin, again. We take all that we have been through and give ourselves space and grace to process and move forward. We will take greater care with one another. We will see and feel our voices and times together with greater appreciation. We will laugh more deeply and see things with renewed joy and energy.

When I was writing remarks for our Commencement ceremony for the Class of 2022, our Centennial Song reverberated in my heart and mind. I shared with our seniors that they will be remembered both for what they have accomplished and what they have endured. They will not be the first and they will not be the last to dance through these halls. They are the “notes of a song that goes on and on and on. Some are melody. Some are harmony. Their class is a ‘symphony of song.’”

RPCS is a symphony of song. It is a song that began before any of us arrived at this moment; and it will go on, and on and on. We are part of this song. We take our next steps together. We join together in the creation of this song. As Brendan Kennelly shared in his poem “Begin”: Though we live in a world/that dreams of ending/that always seems about to give in/something that will not acknowledge conclusion/ insists that we forever begin.

I look forward to continuing this journey with you. I look forward to beginning, again, with you.

Begin

By Brendan Kennelly

Begin again to the summoning birds to the sight of the light at the window, begin to the roar of morning traffic all along Pembroke Road. Every beginning is a promise born in light and dying in dark determination and exaltation of springtime flowering the way to work. Begin to the pageant of queuing girls the arrogant loneliness of swans in the canal bridges linking the past and future old friends passing though with us still. Begin to the loneliness that cannot end since it perhaps is what makes us begin, begin to wonder at unknown faces at crying birds in the sudden rain at branches stark in the willing sunlight at seagulls foraging for bread at couples sharing a sunny secret alone together while making good.

Though we live in a world that dreams of ending that always seems about to give in something that will not acknowledge conclusion insists that we forever begin.

We will take greater care with one another. We will see and feel our voices and times together with greater appreciation. We will laugh more deeply and see things with renewed joy and energy.

GROWING STEM AND STEAM PROGRAMS AT

At Roland Park Country School, we empower our students to gain the academic foundation and cognitive and creative reasoning skills to investigate intellectually rigorous problems in the growing fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM). Through a generous gift to the school, Holliday “Holly” Cross Heine, 1962* and her husband John “Jack” Heine of Santa Barbara, California, recently endowed The Holliday Heine STEM Institute and two director positions to provide leadership within it. We strive to honor Holly’s passion for science by offering our students the skills and motivation in STEM and STEAM fields that they can build upon through their years at RPCS and beyond. Read more for the latest updates of our STEM and STEAM programming by division. >>

Lower School: New STEAM Teacher Position

To help expose our youngest students to fields where women have historically been underrepresented, Lower Schoolers are encouraged to be curious investigators who engage in the joys of hands-on learning and exploring. Recently, a new Lower School STEAM teacher role was established to partner closely with the School’s K-8 STEAM Director and provide instruction for basic technology, coding, and engineering skills to all students in grades K-5. This fall, Heather Samet, a teacher in the RPCS Lower School for 14 years, will take on the role as Lower School STEAM teacher, where in addition to planning, developing and evaluating lessons that align with the RPCS STEAM curriculum, she will also work closely with classroom teachers to integrate developmentally appropriate engineering and design thinking practices into their own grade-level curricula. Heather will also teach the students internet safety and digital citizenship, including personal responsibility for technology use.

“I’m most excited about working with homeroom teachers to create projects that will add to and enhance their curriculum and also to utilize a variety of materials in the Junior Innovation Lab to create a handson makerspace,” Heather said. “I’m looking forward to the creative freedom.” Heather graduated from Syracuse University with a B.S. in Information Technology. She has taught second, fourth and fifth grades at RPCS.

Middle School: Enhanced STEAM Curriculum

Starting this fall, Roland Park Country School offers new STEM classes in the Middle School that focus on teaching design thinking and programming skills to enhance the current STEAM program. By learning design thinking, our students will learn to tap into their creative potential and think more deeply about complex problems. Each unit targets a specific end user and highlights the importance of designing based on the needs of others.

In the sixth grade, the curriculum will focus on “design for play,” where students will learn the art of world building and design their own video games. In the seventh grade, students will build on their skills learned in sixth grade to begin using User Experience Design (also known as UX Design) to develop a new and original application that meets the needs of the greater community. After learning UX Design, eighth graders will dive into Human Centered Design. In the STEM 8 class, students will learn how to engineer and design from an empathetic lens.

The new Middle School courses are also designed to help increase diversity in STEM fields. “By incorporating artistic design, and empathy-based pedagogical approaches to STEAM, our Design Thinking classes allow learners to better understand how STEAM is connected to empathy and how they can improve the world they live in,” said Keya Robinson, the Holliday Heine K-8 STEAM Director. “The intersection with social-emotional learning, coupled with the infusion of art, makes STEAM more accessible to students who may not visualize themselves as ‘STEM kids.’”

Upper School: Spotlight on New Graduate of the Holliday Heine STEM Institute

In The Holliday Heine STEM Institute, Upper School students at RPCS have the opportunities to explore the empirical world to cultivate their curiosity and passions and develop confidence, persistence and innovative habits of mind. There is a growing interest in the Institute, with 65 students enrolled in the previous school year (2021-2022), including 22 ninth graders – the largest number of students in one grade.

“Every experience I had was valuable,” said Sydney Sauls, 2022, a recent graduate of The Holliday Heine STEM Institute. The summer after her freshman year, Sydney participated in the Environmental Science Summer Research Experience (E.S.S.R.E.) at RPCS, a threeweek paid internship in environmental field studies. Through exploring the soil chemistry and biota of the RPCS campus, Sydney engaged in authentic, self-directed primary research, which shaped her passion for environmental science.

Sydney also had the chance to explore other STEM subjects through Advanced Placement (AP) classes in computer science, biology and statistics and was the first student at RPCS to pilot a college-credit course offered through Johns Hopkins University’s pre-collegiate Biomedical Engineering Innovation program, which will be offered to RPCS juniors and seniors this fall. In that course, Sydney used coding, physics and robotics knowledge gained throughout her STEM courses to build prototypes for a biomedical device, model the cardiovascular system through an electric circuit, and design a lab measuring and

analyzing human efficiency in different male physiques. While conducting her course work, Sydney felt very prepared writing lab reports and even helping other students from her experience in the STEM Institute.

Last summer, Sydney completed a weeklong internship at Bliss Meadows, a local Black-owned urban farm with a mission to re-introduce BIPOC communities to nature while working to solve food insecurity in Baltimore. Sydney specifically credits this internship, along with taking honors biology as a freshman, working in the campus gardens and completing the E.S.S.R.E. internship for identifying her career path.

“When I grow up, I want to be an environmental scientist, with a focus on urban food sustainability,” said Sydney. “My time at RPCS made me realize that this is the direction I want to pursue.” This fall, Sydney is studying environmental science and biology at Howard University on a full academic scholarship as a Karsh STEM Scholar.

“The intersection with social-emotional learning, coupled with the infusion of art, makes STEAM more accessible to students who may not visualize themselves as ‘STEM kids.’”

Sydney Sauls, 2022

meet

Margaret Lofgren

Our New Middle School Head

Roland Park Country School is thrilled to welcome Margaret Lofgren as the new Head of the Middle School. Margaret joins us from Foothill Country Day School, a co-ed independent K-8 school in Claremont, California, where she has served as an academic leader and teacher for 26 years.

Before her most recent role as the Upper School Director (grades 6-8) at Foothill Country Day School, Margaret taught Middle School history and Latin there for many years. She started her career teaching Upper School history at Vivian Webb School, an all-girls school in Claremont, California. Margaret earned her undergraduate degree in History from Georgetown University, where she was also a scholar-athlete in cross country and track, and her M.A. in Secondary Social Studies Education from Teachers College at Columbia University.

Margaret is honored to join the RPCS family and looks forward to being a “newbie” again. Please give her a warm welcome when you see her on campus!

What drew you to a career in education?

I have always loved school and children. My mother was a Middle School social studies teacher and my grandmother was an English and Latin teacher. Knowing that I wanted to follow in their footsteps, as a young girl, I would often make believe that I was a teacher. I became a history major because I love stories and knowing about the past. Although I always attended public school, my brother went to Deerfield Academy, which opened up my world to independent schools – where I have been my entire career.

What are you most proud of in your career?

I am most proud of pursuing my passion – working in a school – while balancing the needs of taking care of my two daughters as well.

What interested you about Roland Park Country School?

As a mom of two daughters, I understand the value of providing girls with a strong education. The School’s core values and emphasis on empowering girls to become lifelong learners, who will serve and improve their communities as people of empathy, integrity and character, align with my educational vision and personal values.

I look forward to becoming part of a school where students are encouraged to take their seat at the table, be healthy and well, and embrace diversity. I also love Roland Park Country School’s positive vibe and strong sense of community.

What is your top priority as an educator?

I want every student to explore their passions and know what they are capable of, so that they can be the best of who they are, whether it is as a student, friend, artist, athlete, or something else. As Middle School Head, I want to be that cheerleader and support system to help students explore and thrive.

How do you get teachers excited about teaching and the students excited about learning?

What is most important for me is building relationships. I can’t wait to get to know all of the teachers and learn what makes them tick, what excites them, and what makes them who they are.

For the students, it’s so important that they are truly known. I am eager to meet and really get to know the girls – both inside and outside of class, on stage or the athletic fields. When people are known and cared for, there is less of a worry when taking academic leaps. I want our Middle School students to be challenged to think and try new things through hands-on experiences and build resilience from making mistakes.

What do you love most about Middle School students?

I love their energy, honesty, sense of humor, and seeing how much they grow in just three years. Middle School is a time of change and transition; the girls learn to become independent learners and thinkers and begin to question who they want to become as a person, while at the same time navigating the social dynamics of being an adolescent.

What is your greatest hope for the Middle School at RPCS? My greatest hope is for the Middle School students to be happy and proud to be at RPCS! I want teachers to thrive, feel supported, and be excited to be here. I want the girls to feel confident, be able to voice their opinions, and feel empowered to be who they are. I am hopeful that the Middle School at RPCS can really stand on its own with a strong sense of both community and identity, while fitting into the entire school culture.

What is one book you would recommend to all of your students and why?

Wonder by R.J. Palacio is an important read for people of all ages. The book explores critical themes of identity, bullying, challenges and acceptance and how to deal with differences in others; it reminds us of how it feels to be middle schoolers. As a Hufflepuff, I am also a big fan of the Harry Potter book series.

Tell us one thing about yourself that may surprise people. I can ride a unicycle! When I was in the third grade, I wrote a letter to Santa Claus – which was later printed in the local newspaper – asking for one from the Sears catalog. After learning how to ride one as a child, I picked the hobby back up at the start of the pandemic, with a new unicycle. I like it because I really have to concentrate when I’m riding it and enjoy the challenge.

She

excited

When people are known and cared for, there is less of a worry when taking academic leaps. I want our Middle School students to be challenged to think and try new things through hands-on experiences and build resilience from making mistakes.

ROLES FOR RPCS LEADERS

In the spirit of new beginnings, Roland Park Country School is excited to announce several role changes for our current faculty for the 2022-2023 school year. Read more about these new leadership roles and how each of these individuals will strengthen the rich learning and teaching across RPCS.

Elisha James

Director of K-12 Student Life and Engagement

This last school year marked Elisha James’ 16 years of service at RPCS, which she calls the “sweet sixteen” because each day provides another chance to do what she loves – engaging with students. As an educator and leader and former Middle School Dean of Students, Elisha is most proud of cultivating authentic relationships with students in the classroom, through clubs and the arts, and re-shaping student organizations and modeling for student leaders and the community how to lead with grace, compassion and determination.

As Director of K–12 Student Life and Engagement, Elisha will be responsible for shaping and developing policies, approaches and processes that support Roland Park Country School’s commitment to the health and wellness of every student at RPCS. In this role, Elisha will be instrumental in examining and implementing student life experiences that contribute to a healthy, thriving student culture. She will oversee the All-School Student Life and Engagement team and will work closely with the Head of School and the Strategic Planning Committee on all areas related to student life. This role also intersects with the academic lives of all students in grades K–12, especially in partnering with the Head of School, division heads, department chairs and learning specialists, as RPCS continues to assess and develop optimal learning experiences and environments for our students in these three divisions.

Elisha is excited to take on this new role, where she will serve as an agent who leads and partners with multiple constituencies to develop a healthy, thriving school culture for our youngest to oldest students. “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, ‘we cannot walk alone.’ I am excited and honored to walk, dance, sing, and connect with and guide our students during their RPCS experience,” Elisha said. “My hope is through our work together; every individual recognizes ‘we are many; we are one.’”

Robert Anderson Director of Academic Technology and Innovation

Robert Anderson joined RPCS in November 2020 as an academic technology specialist to integrate technology into the classrooms, evaluate and present new educational tools and apps, and design and deliver technology-related professional development to our faculty.

An advocate of using technology to create rather than consume, Robert quickly became an indispensable member of the RPCS community by helping teachers find creative technological solutions in their classrooms and inspiring the next generation of innovators, developers and leaders. Prior to RPCS, Robert worked as an integration technology specialist and technology teacher in Los Angeles, California, for five years.

In his new role as the Director of Academic Technology and Innovation, Robert will develop and implement a strategic vision for instructional technology at RPCS. He will be responsible for planning, implementing, directing and maintaining the school’s use of educational technology, and evaluating and providing recommendations to complement classroom instruction with software applications and technology. Robert will also oversee best practices involving digital tools and integration of technology into daily practical classroom use and will support staff and professional development opportunities as it relates to integrating technology into academic programming.

“Growing up in the days of dialup internet, Windows XP, and America Online, technology has always been a huge part of my life,” Robert said. “In the eighth grade, I built my first computer with hardware purchased from a local CompUSA store. In this new role, I’m excited to help develop and implement a strategic vision for academic technology at RPCS. I look forward to bringing innovative ideas and tools to our community while collaborating with leadership, faculty and staff.”

Tiana Redfern Oguaman, 1999 Middle School Dean of Students

A proud graduate of RPCS, Tiana Redfern Oguaman, 1999 has been a faculty member at the school for nine years. Throughout her tenure, she has excelled in many roles, including K-12 English Department Head, K-8 English Department Head, Upper School and Middle School Advisor, and most recently, English Department Chair and Middle and Upper School English Teacher. Tiana has also served as a faculty sponsor for numerous Upper School and Middle School clubs and organizations, including the Student Diversity Association and Black Student Union. Tiana has led and collaborated on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) task forces and has served as a member on the Admissions committee.

As Middle School Dean of Students, Tiana will support and shape the student culture within the Middle School and will work closely with Margaret Lofgren, Middle School Head, Elisha James, Director of K-12 Student Life and Engagement, counselors, learning specialists and the faculty and advising teams in the Middle School. In collaboration with Margaret, Tiana will enforce, interpret, and revise rules and codes of conduct, ensuring that they are developmentally appropriate, consistent with the school’s philosophy, clearly articulated and clearly understood by students and adults.

As a member of the All-School Student Wellness and Engagement team, Tiana will work closely with advisors, counselors and teams to address issues of the student body and/or individual students. She will also support the entire Middle School faculty to ensure a safe and secure environment, including coaching them when needed with classroom management or handling of sensitive student issues. Additionally, Tiana will support the Middle School Head in her day-to-day operations. Tiana will also continue teaching two sections of Middle School English. “I’m excited to take on this new leadership role and hope to continue the tradition of creating powerful, compassionate, and authentic future leaders,” Tiana said. “It has always been my goal to make every child feel not only seen and heard, but also accepted and embraced. I look forward to helping RPCS students discover the best versions of themselves.”

Sara Rollfinke Upper School Head

Now in her 19th year at RPCS, Sara Rollfinke has served in many roles, including a French and Spanish teacher, World Language Department Chair, Grade Level Dean, and most recently, Director of Teaching and Learning. She also served as Dean of Faculty, where she managed and revised the faculty hiring procedures to bring consistency and equity to the process, oversaw faculty reviews and evaluations, coached and guided new teachers and supported all faculty in their teaching and professional development. In her role as Director of Teaching and Learning, Sara worked closely with the department chairs on coordinating the K–12 curriculum, collaborated with faculty on pedagogy and best teaching practices, and last year, focused on helping faculty to improve their culturally responsive teaching. One of Sara’s most important contributions at RPCS has been establishing the Incoming Teacher/Administrator Institute, a two-day professional development summer workshop for newly hired teachers and administrators. This has provided a meaningful opportunity for team building, an introduction to the RPCS community, and in-depth discussions about teaching and learning before the new hires begin working with students in late August.

Throughout her tenure here, Sara has learned to enjoy new challenges, build relationships to foster open and honest communication, and confront difficult situations directly and transparently. Her educational philosophy is reflected through this quote by William Butler Yeats: “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire,” and as an educator, Sara strives every day to “light a fire” in the students she teaches and the faculty she mentors to engage, nurture and motivate them.

“I am looking forward to taking on the role of Upper School Head at RPCS and leading our students and faculty forward,” Sara said. “I love teenagers and enjoy their energy, unpredictability and idealism and am particularly committed to the unique and transformational nature of girls’ education and take very seriously the responsibility of preparing our students to enter the world with intellectual curiosity and confident spirit. As an administrator, I have learned that most people work best in a setting in which they are respected, supported and held accountable for their tasks, and this is the tone I strive to set in the 2022-23 school year.”

Melissa Carter-Bey, 1992 Assistant Upper School Head

A proud graduate of RPCS, Melissa Carter-Bey has been part of the school faculty for nine years. She taught both first and second grades and was appointed the Upper School Dean of Students in 2016. Throughout her tenure here, Melissa has been invaluable to our community and helping her students thrive. Five years ago, Melissa started our summer internship program to provide our Upper School students with real-world learning experiences. She has led this program and connected more than 150 rising seniors with professional internships in a wide range of career fields, including medicine, social work and finance. Melissa also excels at facilitating relationships with students and alumnae, parents and guardians, and faculty and staff and is beloved by our entire community.

Melissa is prepared and thrilled to take on the role of Assistant Upper School Head, which is a new position at RPCS. “Helping our students to learn and lead has been my greatest joy,” Melissa said. “When our students walk out our doors to go to college and pursue meaningful careers, knowing that I might have played a small part in their journey makes me proud. I am looking forward to continuing to support our faculty and students and to work alongside Sara Rollfinke in my new role.”

senior profiles

CHARLOTTE CORCORAN

Throughout her 13 years at Roland Park Country School, Charlotte Corcoran has always been up for a challenge. A self-proclaimed “STEM kid,” she became intrigued by the scientific exploration process at an early age and quickly found a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math.

Charlotte began taking STEM electives in the eighth grade and joined The Holliday Heine STEM Institute in the ninth grade, where she was able to explore a broad range of topics, including robotics, statistics, sustainability and her favorite subject –computer science.

“RPCS has given me an academic love of learning and the willingness to put myself out there and try new things,” Charlotte said. This year, Charlotte was recognized by the National Center for Women and Information Technology (NCWIT) with a Maryland Affiliate Award for her computingrelated achievements and interests. She also won a Maryland Affiliate Honorable Mention for the Aspirations in Computing Award during her junior year. The summer after her junior year, Charlotte completed an internship at zyBooks, a leading online textbook company, where she had the opportunity to practice and learn new coding languages.

During her senior year, Charlotte juggled four Advanced Placement (AP) classes: Physics, Calculus BC, Statistics and Computer Science and worked behind-the-scenes on the tech crew at dance concerts and Upper School meetings and assemblies. She also served as president of the CyberPatriot Club and the Computer Science Honor Society, both of which she was a founding member. Additionally, Charlotte was elected editor-in-chief of the student-run school newspaper, The Reds Report, and volunteered in the Lower School library.

Charlotte credits her teachers for making a major impact on her education and personal growth. “There is something so appealing about being under one roof together,” Charlotte told us. “You can’t get that anywhere else!”

In her spare time, Charlotte loves to bake, a hobby she has enjoyed for most of her life. Lately, she has been challenging herself with difficult recipes, including meringues, French pastries, treats for RPCS events and even edible university seals for a few of her college applications! This fall, Charlotte will attend Washington University in St. Louis and major in computer science.

ELLIE DASSOULAS

During her four years at Roland Park Country School, Ellie Dassoulas has excelled both in the classroom and on the field. A member of the Holliday Heine STEM Institute, Ellie earned her STEM (science, technology engineering and math) Certificate this past June. She was honored twice with a National Center for Women and Information Technology (NCWIT) Award and was one of 34 girls to receive the Maryland NCWIT Award in 2021. Ellie also received a Scholastic Gold Key Award and a National Scholastic Silver Medal for her photography piece “Growth.”

Ellie was a four-year honor roll student and graduated with a 4.0 GPA. She is also Vice President and Founding Member of the National Computer Science Honor Society and a member of the National Math Honor Society (Mu Alpha Theta). Ellie was awarded the Margaret E. Smith Prize at Commencement this year, for her personal growth, determination and spirit, and positive contribution to the school community.

“RPCS has helped shape my passion for STEM, especially computer science,” said Ellie. “Dr. Blackburn has been such an amazing and encouraging mentor for me during these past two years and has pushed me to pursue my interest for cybersecurity.”

In addition to her teachers, Ellie credits the student organizations she was involved with at RPCS for helping her define and pursue her interests. As president of FOCUS (Fellowship of Christians in Universities and Schools), Ellie loved being an active member in an organization that has quadrupled in size over the past two years at RPCS and has a presence throughout the greater Baltimore community, including the Tri-School. Ellie also served as president of the RPCS chapter of the CyberPatriot Club, a national organization created by the Air Force where members participate in computational hacking competitions. “CyberPatriot has played a huge role in my academic interests,” Ellie said. “After joining the team sophomore year, I have pursued many things computer science-related.”

With her strong academic achievements, Ellie is also a dedicated Varsity athlete and teammate in soccer, indoor track, and lacrosse. In addition to being captain of the lacrosse team, her Upper School athletic accolades include the 2022 Connie

Williams Excellence in Athletics Award, the Indoor Track Excellence Award in 2019 and a 12 Season Athlete Award. She was an IAAM Championship Silver Medalist in the 4x200m in 2020 and an IAAM Championship Bronze Medalist in the 4x800m in 2020. Ellie also holds school records in the following races: 4x400m, 4x200m and 400m.

Ellie spent the summer traveling with friends, attending an internship program through FOCUS and training for her first college lacrosse season. This fall, Ellie will attend the University of Delaware to play Division 1 lacrosse on athletic, merit and cyber scholarships, where she will major in computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity.

KENNA MITCHELL

As a leader, athlete and performing artist, Kenna Mitchell loves to be busy at all times. Since joining Roland Park Country School in the fourth grade, she has found both a strong sense of community and a safe space where she could build her confidence and learn to trust her abilities in everything she pursued. “RPCS pushes you out of your comfort zone in the best way possible,” Kenna said.

Being a part of the Student Diversity Association (SDA) and the Semiquavers, Roland Park Country School’s auditioned vocal ensemble for juniors and seniors, had the greatest impact on Kenna during her time at RPCS. Kenna first joined SDA as a freshman and was elected to serve in several leadership roles throughout Upper School, including vice president her junior year and president her senior year. “I loved being part of something that was bigger than just my class and getting to know students in different grades and working with faculty advisors,” Kenna said.

She also remembers looking up to the Semis as a Lower Schooler and was thrilled to join the group after being a member of both the Chorus and the Somettos, an auditioned vocal ensemble for ninth and 10th graders. Kenna loved working with Ms. Lisa Diver, 2006, the Upper School music teacher, and this year she pushed herself outside of her comfort zone once again by auditioning for a solo for the first time ever, which she performed during the Valentine’s Day serenades.

Kenna also served as co-president of Model UN during her senior year, a club she joined as a freshman, and was involved in the planning of this year’s conference in Philadelphia. She was also in the Black Student Union, a member of the Varsity Track and Field team and a team captain for the Varsity Tennis and Varsity Swim teams – earning her a 12 Season Athlete Award. Kenna’s Advanced Placement (AP) classes include U.S. History and English Literature and she has made the honor roll every semester in high school. She was also appointed to the Spanish Honors Society.

GARRISON MORRILL

Ever since Garrison Morrill joined RPCS as a prefirst student 13 years ago, she looked up to the senior class and the important role they play in the community. This year, Garrison was excited to finally be part of the graduating class that helped lead the school to spread joy, solidify favorite traditions and create new ones for future classes and generations.

As an accomplished athlete who played on the Varsity lacrosse, soccer and squash teams, Garrison was also president of the Athletic Association this year, and was thrilled to bring back many beloved traditions that were paused during COVID-19, including the Upper School dodgeball tournament, Field Day, Athlete of the Month and a fundraising game called “YDEAR.” Spelled READY backwards, YDEAR started in 2020 and involves both Upper School students and faculty. In this game, participants are given a spoon and a name assignment, and they try to tag their name assignments when they are not holding their spoon, until there is one player standing. Eventually, the game becomes more difficult and players have to skip and hold their spoon above their head in order to be safe, creating funny scenes in the hallways. This year’s fundraiser was a big success, thanks to Garrison’s organization, resulting in 134 participants and $726 raised for two non-profit organizations, Harlem Lacrosse and Baltimore SquashWise.

“RPCS has given me confidence to unapologetically advocate for myself,” said Garrison. “Whether I need support from a teacher, want to try or start something new, or have to speak in front of a large audience, RPCS has given me the tools to be able to speak up.”

Throughout her senior year, Kenna encouraged her underclassmen peers to try new things, fostering the supportive culture of RPCS. Kenna recalls her first visit to RPCS as a third grader and remembers how warm and welcoming the school felt even then, which has carried throughout all of her years here. She genuinely loves walking into the school building every day and will miss that feeling, although she will hopefully be back for many alumnae events!

Outside of school, Kenna enjoys spending time with her friends and family, being outside and trying new restaurants. This summer, she worked as a counselor at Echo Hill Summer Camp and as a lifeguard at her neighborhood pool, where she is also on the swim team. Kenna is attending Tulane University this fall and majoring in political science.

Garrison also credits being a part of the Roses Repertory Dance Company for increasing her confidence, pushing herself outside of her comfort zone and leaning into things that bring her joy. “I truly love the other dancers and Ms. Short,” said Garrison. “Even when we were dancing in our living rooms over Zoom my junior year, I could always count on Roses to be an uplifting part of my day throughout a difficult time.”

Garrison has been a merit scholar all four years in Upper School. In her junior year, she was inducted into the RPCS chapter of the Cum Laude Society and received the Dartmouth Book Award, which is given to one junior in the top 10 percent of her class who has demonstrated intellectual leadership and has made a positive contribution to the extracurricular life of the School.

Garrison was also awarded the Upper School Spirit Award in 2020, the Meledin Athletic Award and a 12 Season Athlete Award.

“After being here for 13 years, I have undoubtedly found a community that I love in my friends, advisors, and teachers,” Garrison said. “Throughout my time here, I knew that I had the support from the community around me, which often gave me the extra push I needed to take risks and challenge myself.”

This summer, Garrison was excited to spend time with friends and family before heading to Vanderbilt this fall, where she will play Division 1 lacrosse on an athletic scholarship.

Bottom photo: Garrison Morrill on her first day at RPCS as a student in pre-first

alumnae profiles

Diagnosed at birth with pulmonary hypertension of a newborn and meconium aspiration, Ariel Egbunine, 2017, was rushed to the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. A pediatric intensivist named Dr. Ivor Berkowitz treated her with a then-relatively new lifesaving therapy called extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). With the odds of survival stacked against her, she eventually made a full recovery. The early life experience was so transformative for Ariel, that she knew from a young age she would pursue a career in medicine and help families in need.

When Ariel joined RPCS in the eighth grade, she shared her incredible story in a speech to the entire Middle School. Throughout her five years at Roland Park Country School, she demonstrated a remarkable aptitude for math and an obsession with natural science. Ariel recalls her time at RPCS as a remarkable chapter in her life. As a scholar in what is now named The Holliday Heine STEM Institute, Ariel reunited with Dr. Berkowitz for a yearlong research internship to investigate if ECMO treatment was a true benefit for respiratory failure. “The most pivotal moment of my STEM training was, and still is, my high school internship with Dr. Berkowitz,” Ariel said. “The doctor who gave me a chance at life became my mentor, embraced my passion and listened attentively to my needs, goals and dreams.”

After graduating from RPCS, Ariel attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and graduated in May 2021 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. In July 2021, she joined the Pediatric Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine Department of Johns Hopkins Hospital as a research coordinator. It was another extraordinary turn of events that Ariel could both give back and pay forward at the same children’s hospital that cared for her two decades earlier. This fall, Ariel will attend St. George’s University School of Medicine to earn her medical degree in Pediatric Anesthesiology.

“Operating under the ethos ‘Any person who provides intensive care must care intensely with passion, integrity, and trust’ has sustained my growth, created balance, and fortified my desire to have a profound and positive impact on every life I’m fortunate to touch,” Ariel said. “The satisfaction I receive from helping others is self-fulfilling and rejuvenating. I am innately laser-focused on creating my future and confident it will be bigger than my past.”

ARIEL EGBUNINE, 2017

The most pivotal moment of my STEM training was, and still is, my high school internship.

Dr. Berkowitz with Ariel at her RPCS graduation in 2017

As President and CEO of Port Discovery Children’s Museum in Baltimore, Carter Arnot Polakoff, 1993 truly has her dream job – and one that’s been in the making since shortly after she graduated from Roland Park Country School. After six years at RPCS, Carter attended Denison University in Ohio until she heard about the museum, which was then in the planning stages. She was so inspired by the mission, vision and potential that Port Discovery held for the families in her hometown that she transferred to Goucher College in Baltimore, just so she could pursue an internship at the museum and become a part of the team that helped open its doors.

Carter then spent more than 20 years at Baltimore School for the Arts growing from a Development Associate to becoming the Foundation Director and earning a reputation as one of Baltimore’s top fundraisers, leaders and mentors. After rejoining the Port Discovery team in 2020, Carter’s passion for play, learning and families continues to shine through as she works to lead the museum’s team of educators, dreamers, planners, and play experts to create powerful, memorable experiences that bring communities together.

A strong believer in the power of childhood memories, Carter fondly recalls her time at RPCS, especially her teachers, who she adored and credits for helping her navigate the challenges of school. “I am confident that the village of teachers who helped me get to the finish line know exactly who they are, and I hope they take a lot of credit for my success,” she said.

Carter is also grateful for her involvement in clubs and activities at RPCS that helped her find enjoyment and a sense of accomplishment during her Upper School years and beyond. “When I was at RPCS, I was celebrated for my role outside the classroom,” she said. “That meant a lot to me and gave me the confidence to push forward as a leader.”

As she leads Port Discovery through the years ahead, Carter hopes to inspire people near and far to benefit from the magic that play can bring to people’s lives and build community relationships and initiatives to support the museum’s diversity equity and inclusion work. Carter has two kids in high school and works nonstop during the week, but has a lot of fun doing it. “I love what I do, and I always find ways to add some silliness and fun to even my longest days!”

Throughout her 12 years at Roland Park Country School, Dorsey Waxter, 1970 learned how to be true to herself. As an art dealer and gallery owner, Dorsey credits RPCS with helping her pursue her career path and stay focused in her work life after embracing the discipline her schoolwork required. “I really cared about pursuing art as a life interest, and along the way there were times when I turned down other opportunities in order to find my niche in the art world,” Dorsey said. She was also inspired by a sense of competitive camaraderie in her class and recalls being encouraged to speak up and participate constructively, which as she points out, is a useful tool in today’s world.

Art has been the touchstone for Dorsey’s entire professional life, beginning with two teachers at RPCS: Mrs. Stonesifer and Mrs. Cavanaugh. “I loved looking at ancient sculptures and Greek temples when we pasted pictures into a book in Mrs. Stonesifer's class,” Dorsey said. “Mrs. Cavanaugh took art history to another level of interest by connecting the dots between culture, history and art.” After graduating from RPCS, Dorsey majored in Art History at Denison University and completed several independent studies before going to New York City in January 1974 to work in a new gallery in SoHo.

Throughout her career, Dorsey has always worked in either a gallery setting or as a private art advisor. In addition to working with world-famous artists, including David Hockney, Anthony Caro, Helen Frankenthaler, Anne Truitt, and Kenneth Noland, Dorsey also worked for eight years as a private art advisor specializing in post-World War II American art, and served as president of The Art Dealers Association of America for three years.

Currently, Dorsey is a partner of an art gallery, Van Doren Waxter, located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, showing historical work from artists' estates and foundations, as well as living artists from the 20th and 21st centuries from the United States, Europe, Africa and South America.

Some of Dorsey’s favorite memories of RPCS include morning carpools with girls from all different classes, getting food from vending machines in the cafeteria that she didn't eat at home, brown oxfords and pettipants, sunbathing in the Cherry Tree courtyard, modern dance, the junior/senior banquet, readings in the Christmas pageant, and the play “Li'l Abner” she performed in the fourth grade where she played the role of Wolf Girl. Dorsey also fondly remembers her classmates. “The friendships that I made at RPCS remain among the most important happy memories of growing up.”

CARTER ARNOT POLAKOFF, 1993

DORSEY WAXTER, 1970

Dorsey Waxter, 1970 with her husband, Richard Armstrong, on top of the Peggy Guggenheim Museum at a dinner for the Venice

2022

Professional Connections:

RPCS Alumnae Share Career Advice with Upper Schoolers

Our annual Professional Connections program was held on December 6, 2021 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. Pictured here, from left to right: Tiffani Jefferson Reidy, 2000, Carla Johnston Driscoll, 2004, Elizabeth Duke, 2004, Kelly Donovan-Mazzulli, 1994, and Tanaira Cullens, 2008 – along with our three remote participants, Annette Fleishman, 2008, Deniece Holley Roahrig, 2006, and Emily Sunderland, 2009.

to the students. “Make sure to make good use of the space you are in now and use your network while you have one.” Dr. Duke shared her email address with students to help them take the first step to build their own professional connections. She also urged the students to pursue work they are passionate about to ensure a fulfilling career.

“To know the road ahead, ask those coming back,” goes the famous Chinese proverb. Roland Park Country School Upper Schoolers did just that when eight alumnae returned to campus in person and virtually for the School’s annual Professional Connections program last December. Organized by the Alumnae Office, the RPCS graduates met with small groups of Upper School students, where they discussed how they chose their respective careers, offered wise advice for handling life’s challenges, and revealed how being a RED helped prepare them for life after graduation.

Annette Fleishman, 2008, a senior product manager at Autodesk, spoke about how the critical thinking and study skills she learned at RPCS prepared her well when she attended Vanderbilt University to study civil engineering. Attending an all-girls school also instilled in her a sense of confidence that helped her in college and beyond as she was never afraid to speak up and ask questions. She encouraged our current students to notice and appreciate the sense of empowerment that is reinforced at RPCS because it will be valuable for years to come.

Emily Sunderland, 2009, a principal at Boston Consulting Group, advised her group of Upper School students to explore various career options and focus more on the process of learning, growing and gaining new experiences rather than the destination. “There is no single path for what to do, no matter what your end goal is,” she told them.

“There is no single path for what to do, no matter what your end goal is.”

Several alumnae also spoke about the importance of connecting with other students to create ties that may last a lifetime. “Coming from a school like RPCS gives you an opportunity,” Deniece Holley Roahrig, 2006, who works in digital entertainment at Spotify in Los Angeles, shared with her group of students. Deniece has built her career in integrated media working at companies that include Buzzfeed, Complex and Fullscreen, Inc. and encouraged the students to value their lasting friendships with classmates and keep in touch with fellow graduates to network. “Someone from RPCS might be your inroad to your next job.”

The alumnae speakers also imparted wise advice that can be applied to both careers and life. Tiffani Jefferson Reidy, 2000, whose work at Reidy Creative encompasses interior architecture, creative direction, graphic and publication design, and photography, talked about the importance of adaptability and flexibility, especially during unpredictable times, such as COVID-19.

Kelly Donovan-Mazzulli, 1994, a child advocate lawyer, advised the RPCS students: “A good life lesson is being able to immerse yourself in others’ perspectives and opinions, in order to form your arguments. … It’s essential.”

Tanaira Cullens, 2008, an environmental scientist at Biohabitats, Inc., an environmental consulting firm, and Elizabeth Duke, 2004, a pediatric neurologist and medical officer in the Office of Oncologic Diseases at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), shared similarly wise advice. “Making real connections is very important,” Tanaira emphasized

Carla Johnston Driscoll, 2004, a registered nurse in the Neurobehavioral Unit at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, summed it up well when she spoke about pursuing a career: “Just go for it and don’t be scared!” Carla also noted that her classes at RPCS were harder than any of her university courses and said, “That’s why they call it college prep!”

The theme of finding happiness and meaning beyond their careers resonated with many of the alumnae.

“You can and will do amazing things, but always remember how important it is to have a good worklife balance.” Kelly Donovan-Mazzulli said. “With balance and mental health stability, all good things flow. It is of primary importance. Fulfillment in life is not all about how much money you earn.”

“Someone from RPCS might be your inroad to your next job.”

“Make sure to make good use of the space you are in now and use your network while you have one.”

“Immerse yourself in others’ perspectives and opinions, in order to form your arguments … it’s essential.”

Cathy Huether McClelland, 1968 awarded the McCauley Bowl 2022

Congratulations to Cathy Huether McClelland, 1968, the 2022 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 that are used by the Board of the Alumnae Association in selecting recipients of this honor.

Giving back to her community has always been a way of life for Cathy. She has been active and involved at RPCS throughout the years by serving on the Alumnae Board, the Board of Trustees and as a parent representative. A member of the Red & White Legacy, Cathy has also supported Annual Giving and Class Reunion committees and has served as Giving and Planning Chairs for her 50th and 45th reunions, respectively. Her role as a campaign volunteer was instrumental in the success of the This Is Our Moment Campaign, and she has also volunteered for previous School campaigns and served on the Centennial Weekend Committee. We are so grateful to Cathy and the time and efforts she has dedicated, and continues to dedicate, to RPCS!

Necole Jackson, 2007 awarded the 2022 Distinguished Rising REDS Award

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

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

Congratulations to Necole Jackson, 2007, who was selected as the second recipient of the 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 founder of Be More Baddies, a local nonprofit organization founded in 2017, Necole is a dedicated philanthropist and leader. Be More Baddies’ mission is to inspire women and girls to “be more” through empowerment, events, education, etiquette and exposure. Additionally, Necole created a mentoring group for teen girls in Baltimore called Be More Belles, which ultimately became the impetus for her organization to provide mentorship and education for young women. Recently her organization conducted a Back-to-School drive by collecting donations for uniforms for the girls at Edmonson-Westside High School in Southwest Baltimore. During her time at RPCS, Necole was part of what was then called the Black Awareness Club and as an alumna, she continues to be an active part of our community with her involvement in the Black Student Union and recently, as a cochair for her 15th Reunion this past spring. Necole shows distinction as a leader in our community and actively embodies the spirit, leadership, and integrity of our REDS community.

Recipient:

Morgan Katz Peters, 2002

Alumnae Association President Kelly Donovan-Mazzulli, 1994 presents the Alumnae McCauley Bowl to the 2022 recipient, Cathy Huether McClelland, 1968, for volunteering and supporting RPCS through the years

ABOVE: Alumnae Association President, Kelly Donovan-Mazzulli, 1994 awarded Necole Jackson, 2007 with the 2022 Distinguished Rising REDS Award

Photo credit: bemorebaddies.com

13th Annual Alumna Art Show with Liz Vayda, 2005

We were honored to welcome Liz Vayda, 2005 back to campus last October for our 13th Annual Artist Alumna Reception! A young entrepreneur who started her business, B. Willow, in Baltimore at the age of 25, Liz was selected by the Art Department and Alumnae Office as our 13th Annual Alumna Artist in Residence for the 2021-2022 school year. The reception included graduates, employees and friends of RPCS and capped off a campus exhibit of several weeks featuring botanicals, succulents and terrariums in our Knott Lobby. Check out B. Willow to see Liz’s artistic creations!

2021 Alumna Artist Liz Vayda, 2005, with Joan Smith, HA, Former Upper School Head

Red Hot Run

100th Night Dinner

We were happy to return to the beloved tradition of the 100th Night Dinner for the Class of 2022. The 100th Night Dinner, a tradition started in the 1980s, is hosted by the Alumnae Board annually the night before Senior Day for the senior class and marks 100 days until Commencement!

Golf Classic

The 13th Annual Golf Classic was held at Green Spring Valley Hunt Club. All those who played had a great time and we are grateful to our sponsors and participants who made the event a success. Many thanks to Mark Newcomb, P ’30 for his incredible leadership as event chair!

Night Under the Stars

Night Under the Stars was back in person this year and guests donned their best RED and jeans for this fun evening hosted by the RPCS Parents’ Association and Alumnae Association! Parents and guardians, alumnae and friends of RPCS enjoyed live music from the Natty Brohs Band, food by Patrick Morrow Catering, a raffle drawing for a night at the Sagamore Pendry, and a fantastic silent auction curated by our RPCS community.

Alumnae Weekend

Dushane Luncheon

Family Fun Fest

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

Brooke Carter Taliaferro, 1962 and Bennett White Swingle, 1962

Judy Mitchell Wright, 1964 receives a rose from a fifth grader

Members of the Class of 1967: (L to R) Susan Hume Artes, Beth Bishop, Chesley Schultheis, Marietta Koch Nolley and Sue Berwager Law

Fifth graders serenade RPCS alumnae with a medley of songs

Helen Williams Sale, 2002 with her daughter, Ellee S., 2031

Lauren Burd Wakeland, 2002 and her daughter, Kit

Head of School Caroline Blatti’s State of the School presentation to alumnae covered exciting highlights and updates from academics and performing and visual arts to athletics, at RPCS

State of the School with Caroline Blatti

50th Tea with 5th Grade Pen Pals

50th Walking Tour of Roland Park

Anne Hughes DeCamps, 1972 with her Class of 2029 pen pals, Eden V. and Sophie M.

Roses 25th Anniversary Celebration

Janet Stewart Hoffberger, 1972 and Mary Dierdorff, 1972 join fifth graders, Bryndi P., Avery P., and Zoey M.

Alumnae and current students celebrated our Roses’ dance ensemble 25th anniversary by dancing together in honor of the ensemble and its significant role in the arts at RPCS

Neetu Dhawan-Gray, 1972 with pen pal, SomMai H.P.

Diane Hutchins, 1972 with Class of 2029 pen pals, Mycah W. and Gabby I.

In honor of their 50th reunions, the Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972 enjoyed a walking tour of Roland Park lead by Kathy Hudson, 1967 and Judy Dobbs from the Friends of Maryland’s Olmsted Parks & Landscapes

Champagne Reception

Members of the Class of 1997 Hillary Zouck Shaffer, Brooke Grumbine, and Nikki Sheridan Alworth celebrate their 25th Reunion

Melissa Carter-Bey, Amy Winkelstein, Kim Bogue Barbaro, Alice Chung Cootauco, Ann Torres, and Courtney Pippen celebrate winning the social media Spirit Week giveaway to celebrate their 30th reunion

Erin Murphy, 1982, Beth Murphy Darrell, 1985 and Libby Rutledge Murphy, Honorary Alumna (HA)

Courtney Wolf, 2017 celebrating her 5th Reunion with her mother, Melissa Jones Wolf, 1986

Members of the Class of 1971 (L to R) Holly Buttner, Leslie Phelps Perlik, Meg Hudson Rice, Lee Kelly, Hathaway Clark Ferebee and Kim Hupfeldt

Toddy Atkins Haciski, 1970 wore her RPCS uniform and won the most spirited (unplanned) prize

The Class of 1982 is the inaugural class to be awarded the Rose Vase for the highest percentage of participation during their reunion year

The Class of 1967 is the inaugural class to be awarded the REDS Plate for raising the highest dollar amount for the annual fund during their reunion year

Alumnae Crab Feast

Belated Celebration in September 2021 – Class of 1976 Reunion Weekend

The Class of 1976 traveled near and far for a belated 45th reunion weekend last fall. The alumnae loved the tour of RPCS and meeting with Head of School Caroline Blatti.

Head of School Caroline Blatti with Jen Banister Figler, 1988, Kelly Donovan-Mazzulli, 1994, Haley Venick Paglia, 2011 and Emily Turner Horton, 2009

Members of the Class of 2012, Rachel Taylor, Christina Reese, Serene Mirza and Natalie Polk Ebel celebrate their 10th reunion

Enjoying the start of crab season and their 40th reunion are Kira Sekulow, 1982, Yvette Morris Tilghman, 1982, Sarah Mello, 1982 and A.J. Johnston, 1982

Sue Berwager Law, 1967, Suzy Ross McDowell, 1967 and Kathy Hudson, 1967 celebrate their 55th reunion

Class Reunions

ROLAND

of

of

Class Reunions

Class of 1977

of 1982

of 1992

Class of 1976

of

Class Reunions

Regional Reunions

The Alumnae Office hosted three regional reunions – New York City, Denver and Boulder – in the 2021-2022 school year. Thank you to all who attended these events and we hope to see you at a regional reunion in your city soon.

of

of 2012

Our sympathies to the families and friends of:

1938

Bettie Harper Porth, 1938

Mother of Anne Porth, 1977; Sister of Carolyn Harper Proom, 1946* 10/14/2021

1945

Pat Waters Barrett, 1945

Mother of Gin Barrett Shanley, 1970, Amy Barrett Frew, 1972 and Barbara Barrett Neale, 1973; Grandmother of Lucy Barrett Crannick, 2003, Molly Frew Peterson, 2003, Barrett Neale Scott, 2006, Carroll Neale, 2010, and Hooper Neale, 2013; Sister of Judy Waters, 1950; Cousin of Betsy Waters Roughen, 1950 and Janet Waters Flagle, 1945* 1/21/2022

1947

Joyce Kellam Dougherty, 1947 7/1/2021

1950

Gail Painter Mathews, 1950

Sister of Ann Painter, 1953*, Julie Painter, 1955*, and Prudence Painter Wendel, 1960* 7/7/2021

Betty Jenkins Crane, 1950 3/19/2022

1952

Diane Hamilton Boynton, 1952

Sister of Welby Hamilton Loane, 1954 and Linda Hamilton, 1958; Aunt of Ingrid Boynton Polk, 1982; Great Aunt of Natalie Polk Ebel, 2012, Kristin Polk, 2014, and Elena Loane, 2017 10/13/2021

Ann Tucker Gundry, 1952

Sister of Parker Gundry Trostel, 1953 3/27/2022

1958

Beatrix “Trixie” Tyson Rumford, 1958

Sister of Ellen Rumford Barrett, 1959 and Betsy Rumford Thwaite, 1964 10/27/2021

1960

Florrie Roy Brassier, 1960

Sister of Mollie Roy Bucy, 1957 7/29/2021

Prudence Painter Wendel, 1960

Sister of Gail Painter Mathews, 1950*, Ann Painter, 1953* and Julie Painter, 1955* 5/11/2022

1961

Clover “Kitty” Purvis Roulette, 1961

Daughter of Clover Duval Purvis, 1931* 10/21/2021

1962

Betty Baukhages Harfst, 1962 12/12/2021

1963

Suzi Wenger O’Brien, 1963

Step Sister of Anne Roeder Kern, 1963 and Mimi Roeder Vaughan, 1966; Step Aunt of Gina Pizza, 1994; Step Great Aunt of Livia Pizza, 2027 12/8/2021

1968

Sally Morton, 1968

Sister of Virginia L. Morton, 1965* and Marianne Morton, 1970; Cousin of Linda H. Morton, 1972; Niece of Frances Morton Froelicherm, 1930* 10/13/2021

1971

Christine Banach Dorn, 1971 1/17/2022

1974

Muzzy Folsom Cleveland, 1974

Sister of Frances Cleveland, 1963; half-sister of Ann Cleveland Robertson, 1943* and Charlotte Cleveland Look, 1947*; daughter of Jesse Black Cleveland, 1937* 8/3/2021

RPCS – Employees

Stephanie Verhage

Former RPCS Employee - Middle School

Administrative Assistant 1997-2009 6/1/2021

Ann McNamee

Former RPCS Employee - Upper School

Administrative Assistant from 1968-1987 5/10/2022

Helen “Candy” Byrnes

Former RPCS Employee - Bookstore Manager 1984-2004; Mother of Pierse Byrnes, 1990, D’Arcy Byrnes Talley, 1992 and Liz Byrnes Hamm, 1997; Aunt of Anna Connors, 2017 5/11/2022

RPCS – Trustees

Mary Ellen Thomsen, HA

Honorary Alumna, Former President of the RPCS Board of Trustees, and Lifetime Trustee, 1989-2000; Mother of Roszel Thomsen, HA; Grandmother of Meghan Thomsen, 2007 and Caroline Thomsen, 2010; Sister-in-Law of Margaret Thomsen Moler, 1955*

4/18/2022

We extend our sympathy to the family of Helen “Candy” McCausland Byrnes, who passed away in May. Candy worked in the RPCS bookstore for 20 years from 1984-2004, where she shared her love of reading and made it a place of joy for both students and employees. Candy will be remembered for her quiet and generous spirit, humor and hospitality. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, the Honorable John Carroll Byrnes and three daughters who are also RPCS graduates, Pierse Byrnes, 1990, D’Arcy Byrnes Talley, 1992 and Liz Byrnes Hamm, 1997, as well as four grandchildren, three siblings and extended family and friends. She will be missed by many friends and colleagues.

We also offer our condolences to the family of Mary Ellen Thomsen, HA, first woman President of the RPCS Board of Trustees from 1996 to 1998. Formerly, she was headmistress of St. Paul’s School for Girls from 1978 to 1986. In 2014, Mary Ellen was awarded the Alumnae McCauley Bowl for her distinguished service to RPCS. Her granddaughters Meghan and Caroline are members of the Classes of 2007 and 2010 respectively. In the spring of 1998, Mary Ellen was named an honorary alumna of RPCS. She and her son, Roszel Thomsen, are the only moth er-son pair ever to have served on the Board of Trustees. Mary Ellen will be remembered for her genuine warmth and kindness and her lighthearted sense of humor. As Commencement speaker in 2007, she told the graduates: “Live through the days, dear seniors, making sure to know when to follow directions, when to take risks, and how to make tough decisions.” We are grateful for her service and dedication to RPCS through the years.

Alumnae Legacy Relations for the Class of 2022

Front Row – left to right:

Garrison Morrill

Suzanne Michel Twells, 1954, Great Aunt

Greer Michel Jackson, 1963, Great Aunt*

Beverly Pierce Michel, 1965, Great Aunt

Suzanne Hylbom, 1982, Cousin Bailey Hylbom, 2009, Cousin Emory Knott, 2016, Cousin

Olamide Oyenusi

Oyinade Oyenusi, 2019, Sister

Lily Milstone

Beth Winkelstein, 1989, Aunt

Amy Winkelstein, 1992, Mother

Annie Obrecht

Betty Obrecht Ghezzie, 1936, Great Aunt*

Jane Obrecht Emich, 1937, Great Aunt*

Doris Obrecht Voneiff, 1937, Great Aunt*

Nancy Obrecht Victor, 1939, Great Aunt*

Charlie Obrecht, Boy Alum, Grandfather

Patty Voneiff Finney, 1964, Aunt

Liz Voneiff Paternotte, 1991, Cousin

Emma McDonnell

Ida Kemp Cockey Passano, 1921, Great Great Aunt*

Susie Passano Macfarlane, 1950, Cousin*

E. Magruder “Mac” Passano, Boy Alum, Grandfather

Margie Macfarlane Long, 1976, Cousin

Catherine Passano McDonnell, 1994, Mother

Tammy Passano Wiggs, 1997, Aunt

Sarah Passano Meech, 2001, Aunt

Kate Long, 2005, Cousin

Ellie Macfarlane, 2014, Cousin

Irene Macfarlane, 2018, Cousin

Emma Blumenthal

Abby Minkin, 2021, Cousin

Sydney Sauls

Maya Sauls, 2021, Sister

Middle Row:

Ellen Salovaara

Julie Buchanan Salovaara, 1983, Mother

Coco Cameron

Kate Tubman Cameron, 1984, Mother

Linda Schaefer Cameron, 1984, Aunt

Kat Cameron Jacobs, 2000, Sister

Kerry Cameron, 2020, Sister

Charlotte Corcoran

Maeve Corcoran, 2020, Sister

Hannah Carroll

Darcy Christhilf Carroll, 1988, Mother

Molly Christhilf Finnegan, 1995, Aunt

Chelsea Shumate

Carolynne Card Shumate, 1961, Grandmother

Marianne Card Warmer, 1963, Great Aunt

Brigit Shumate Taylor, 1988, Aunt

Angel Faulkner

Arielle Faulkner, 2012, Sister

Kayla Norris

Lauryn Norris, 2019, Sister

Back Row:

Kenna Mitchell

Micah Mitchell Hines, 1995, Cousin

Juanita Mitchell, 2001, Cousin

Meghan Green

Julia Green, 2019, Sister

Elizabeth Johnson

Caroline Noah Johnson, 1988, Mother

Gracen Drake

Keating Drake, 2020, Sister

Alden Harchick

Lynn Brewington Havard, 1954, Grandmother

Gail Brewington O’Donovan, 1957, Great Aunt*

Sue Brewington Schier, 1961, Great Aunt

Mary Lynn Havard Schnader, 1982, Aunt

Helen Havard Harchick, 1984, Mother

Morgan Harchick, 2011, Sister

Kate O’Donovan, 2012, Cousin

Hewit Harchick, 2013, Sister

Eliza O’Donovan, 2015, Cousin

Kendall Keehner

Kimberly Keehner Mattison, 1985, Aunt

Maddie Current

Emelia Current, 2020, Sister

Not Pictured:

Amani Green

Alexis Green, 2014, Sister

Antania Green, 2020, Sister

Quinn Yarbrough

Jenny Jensen, 1980, Aunt Zoe Yarbrough, 2020, Sister

Alumnae babies!

Lacey Baradel, 2000   Alden Bell

Ellie Hindsley Clendenin, 2001 Charles Austin Clendenin

Courtney Brent Kaufman, 2001 Franklin Kaufman

Kelsey Twist Schroeder, 2001 Isaac James Schroeder

Sarah Harrison Lenahan, 2001 William “Will” Grayson Lenahan

Aurélie Graillot, 2002 Siena Elle Bernstein

Parissa “PJ” Jahromi Ballard, 2002 Leila Ballard

Charlotte Hindsley McLaren, 2003 Hutton “Hattie” McLaren

Molly Frew Peterson, 2003 Gavin Peterson

Carla Johnston Driscoll, 2004 Niall Joseph Driscoll

Jennifer Wright Song, 2004 Ryan Alexis Song

Melissa Paterakis Lundberg, 2004 (and godson of Kristin Paterakis, 2006!) Charlie Lundberg

Ana Agelopas Murphy, 2004 Emerson “Emmie” Jane Murphy

Tara Lewis Bisciotti, 2005 Brooks Alexander Bisciotti

Molly Ricely FitzGerald, 2006 George Francis Fitzgerald

Stefanie Warns Carter, 1998 Bastian Carter

Barrett Neale Scott, 2006 Holly Scott Kendall Polling Gomber, 2006 Michael Gomber

Emily Black Soref, 2007 Mabel Claire Soref

Rachel Meyer Jenkins, 2007 Nora Jenkins

Jessica Berman DeMarino, 2007 Liam DeMarino

Sally Tucker Zimmerman, 2011 Tucker Zimmerman

Meggie Ramzy Southerland, 2011 Graham Southerland

Allie Mason Hoffberg, 2011 Miles Yale Hoffberg

Hanna Frank Fountain, 2010 Robert “Bo” Bryant Fountain Courtney Hodge Gladstone, 2010 John-Mark “Eli” Gladstone