2026 RCDS Spring Bulletin

RYE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

2025-2026

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Rosa Perkins

President

David Kurd

Vice President

Michael O’Mary

Treasurer

Ben Moss ’93

Secretary

Andrew Adams

Carlo Bertucci ’98

Rebecca Brown

Tyler Dickson

Jackie Emmet

Nicole Jackson Fanjul ’02

Amy Fisch

Eric Geveda

Alison Hinds-Pearl

Blanca Hirani

Jean Joseph

Jennifer Kherani

Eric Lane ’92

Tina Mathias

Elizabeth Shah-Hosseini

David Thomas ’04

Colby Tofel-Grehl ’95

Susheel Torgalkar

Vicki Tung

Jinghua Yan

Andrew Nathanson ’09

Alumni Executive Board President

Lynelle Chang

Parents Association President

TRUSTEES EMERITI

Edward B. Dunn

Frederick A. Klingenstein♦

Michael C. Murr

Carmen Ribera-Thain ’75

Edgar Wachenheim III

Kim Wachenheim Wagman ’84

♦ Deceased

ALUMNI EXECUTIVE BOARD

Andrew S. Nathanson ’09

President

Thomas Alston ’05

Melanie Baevsky Besvinick ’07

Joshua Bennett ’06

Ellen Sluder Cohen ’95

Ryan Davidson ’11

Jeffery Grasso, Jr. ’12

CJ Gray ’09

Kenji Hashimoto ’99

Grant S. Johnson ’10

Cynthia Luo ’14

Daniel Wallance ’00

EX OFFICIO: HONORARY FACULTY

Gil A. Castagna, Jr.

EX OFFICIO: ALUMNI TRUSTEES

Carlo Bertucci ’98

Nicole Jackson Fanjul ’02

Eric Lane ’92

Ben Moss ’93

David Thomas ’04

Colby Tofel-Grehl ’95

EX OFFICIO: MEMBERS

Randall Dunn Head of School

Lynette Gioffre Director of Advancement

Melissa Mahoney Wirth ’97 Director of Alumni Relations

CREDITS

On the Cover: Painting by sixth grader Kimberly Pan. This work is part of a unit in Ms. Machado's class on Van Gogh floral still lifes, drawing, color mixing, and impasto techniques.

Editor: Dania Abu-Shaheen

Alumni Content Editor: Melissa Mahoney Wirth ’97

Photography: RCDS staff photographers, as well as Dana Maxson

Photography, Bruce Gilbert, and Susan Nagib.

Design: Rose Creative Group

FOLLOW US! RYE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

Country Day School

FROM THE

HEAD of SCHOOL

Dear RCDS Community,

Our school-wide theme of COURAGE made the 2025-26 school year memorable. Together, we considered and celebrated the impact of courageous acts—large and small—nurtured our community values with an emphasis on courtesy and politeness, honored those who have led with integrity, and supported our students as they explored new skills and concepts.

In a time that can feel increasingly cautious and disconnected, I am proud that the RCDS community embraced the idea that stepping outside of our comfort zone to learn and grow is always worth it. This mindset allows communities to grow stronger, stay true to their principles, and better serve the greater good.

From interdisciplinary learning experiences and immersive programs to community events, performances, and celebrations that brought us together in shared purpose, we leaned into our mission-level aspiration to think critically and make a positive impact on the world. Whether on the stage, in the classroom, on the field, or in service to others, our students demonstrated that courage is not only discussed at RCDS—it is lived.

This year also marked a milestone for our institution: the release of the Strategy for Excellence, which articulates a bold vision for RCDS and the key choices that will ensure our continued leadership as a premier institution of teaching and learning. In our ever-changing world, naming our direction, and committing to getting there with intention, is itself an act of institutional courage. This fortitude will ensure that RCDS students will remain exceptionally well equipped to seize new—and perhaps as yet undiscovered—opportunities and meet challenges with purpose.

In this issue of the Bulletin, you will find stories of growth, leadership, and impact that simply could not happen without courageous hearts and minds. I hope you enjoy these pages and find them as inspirational as I do!

As I write my final Bulletin greeting as Head of School, I do so with deep gratitude. It has been an honor to serve this extraordinary community. Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and your steadfast commitment to the ideal of excellence with purpose that unites us all.

Yours,

Randall Dunn Head of School

On Earth Day, Lower School students gathered around as Mr. Dunn read On Meadowview Street, a children’s book that celebrates the environment, ecosystems, and individual empowerment. Read more about RCDS’s Earth Day celebrations on page 15.

FACULTY/STAFF CLASS OF 2026

to the newest members of our community who joined RCDS in 2025-26.

PRINCIPAL PERSPECTIVES

■ LOWER SCHOOL

Courage

Lower Schoolers explored the theme of courage through guided conversations and a curated selection of children’s stories that get at the heart of the concept of courage. For our youngest students, the concept of courage often begins with facing a fear and trying something new. In Jabari Jumps, students learned bravery as taking steps toward a fear, while The Koala Who Could and The Thing Lou Couldn’t Do highlighted courage as trying again and persisting through challenges. As children developed their understanding of the theme, the concept of courage became social and moral—being yourself, standing up for others, and choosing kindness. Discussing books like Be Kind and I Walk with Vanessa deepened empathy and showed how courage embodies inclusion and doing what is right, even when it feels uncomfortable. Underpinning all of this is intentional listening, as students practiced hearing their classmates, responding thoughtfully, and using phrases like “I noticed…” and “That makes me think/feel…” All of this work helps children name their emotions, empathize, and build a safe and supportive community.

■ MIDDLE SCHOOL

Middle School takes courage! Foremost this year, we fostered courage in the classroom, as teachers empowered students to speak up in class, to test ideas, and to take full responsibility for their education. Middle School is all about exploration, whether pushing one’s self to try a new sport, art form, or club. Courage was also the throughline to all of our Community Meetings this year, as students and faculty members courageously shared personal accounts of courage in their lives. We enjoyed taking students on new field trips that built on classroom learning and helped students understand the broader societal context of their academics. Relatedly, social impact projects in all grades facilitated by the Public Purpose Office pushed our students to care about their broader communities, embracing our motto of Not for Self, but for Service. In short, our students demonstrated courage this year as they strived towards academic and personal excellence. We are so very proud of them.

■ UPPER SCHOOL

This year, Upper Schoolers celebrated and embodied the theme of courage. Students stepped into new experiences with curiosity and commitment. They dove into challenging courses and grappled with complex ideas. Whether engaging in public purpose programs and projects; taking personal risks in dramatic and dance performances that demanded patience, practice, and persistence; or giving thoughtful talks in Community Forum about what it means to act with bravery, students showed a willingness to stretch themselves. In classrooms, on the athletic fields, in robotics competitions, at science fairs, and on the stage, they demonstrated a willingness to put themselves—and their ideas—out there, knowing that growth often requires vulnerability. There was something symbolic about the Artemis II mission this past spring: the astronauts embodied bravery, resolve, and an inspiring sense of optimism. So too did our students. Throughout the year, they launched into new challenges, both intellectually and personally, approaching each endeavor with curiosity and determination—and with a readiness to support one another along the way.

Mr. Vineyard

Dr. Sotirhos

Ms. Heat h

class of 2026

WE ARE PROUD OF YOUR MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS.

WELCOME TO THE ALUMNI FAMILY!

SENIOR YEAR (2026)

PRE-K (2012-13) KINDERGARTEN (2013-14)

GRADE 4 (2017-18)

GRADE 8 (2021-22)

CONGRATULATIONS ALSO

to the eighth graders, the Class of 2030, on your Middle School graduation. We look forward to following and celebrating your achievements in the Upper School.

to our fourth graders, the Class of 2034, on the occasion of your moving-up. We can’t wait to watch and applaud your Middle School adventures.

THANK YOU THANK YOU

MR. DUNN MR. DUNN

Rye Country Day School thanks Randall Dunn for his caring, visionary leadership! We wish him all the best in his next chapter. ONCE A WILDCAT, ALWAYS A WILDCAT!

Highlights from Rye Country Day

NEW TRUSTEES

In July 2026, RCDS will welcome the following new trustees.

❶ Dr. Colby Tofel-Grehl ’95 is Vice Dean of Teacher Education and Community Partnerships at Columbia Teachers College. Her scholarship interrogates the structures, systems, and practices that foster inequities across STEM. She designs teacher professional development and curricular materials to facilitate historically minoritized rural youth’s success within STEM spaces. Her research has been published in high impact journals such as the Journal of Research in Science Teaching, Journal of Science and Technology, Theory and Practice in Rural Education, Gifted Child Quarterly, and the Journal of Educational Research. Her funded grants exceed $25,000,000 of which she is principal investigator of over $20,000,000, including a prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER grant. Additionally, Dr. Tofel-Grehl has received multiple national honors and awards including the 2019 Award for Significant Contribution to Educational Measurement and Research Methodology from Division D of the American Educational Research Association, the 2020 Early Career Science Teacher Educator of the Year Award from the Association for Science Teacher Educators. After graduating from RCDS in 1995, Dr. Tofel-Grehl received her B.A. from Fordham University and her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Virginia.

❷ Katie Stewart P’36, P’33 currently serves as the Parents Association’s President-Elect. She has been an active and dedicated member of the RCDS PA for many years, chairing a range of committees including STEAMfest, Friends of the Arts, LS Photo Books, and Heard in Rye. She has also contributed as a Lower School liaison and has welcomed students and their families as a host family multiple times. Katie began her career in New York City in advertising and media buying before transitioning to OppenheimerFunds, where she spent most of her career managing corporate events. She holds a B.A. from Fairfield University. Katie lives in Rye, NY, with her husband, Ben, their two children—Charlotte (Class of 2033) and William (Class of 2036)—and their dog, CJ.

A GIFT THAT SAVES LIVES

The annual RCDS Blood Drive is a community effort, bringing together students, families, and faculty/staff in partnership with the New York Blood Center. Upper School volunteers guide donors from registration through recovery, while parent volunteers assist with check-in. In the weeks leading up to the event, the Public Purpose Student Leadership Board builds awareness and encourages participation through Community Meeting announcements and signup initiatives. Since 2007, Rye Country Day School has partnered with NYBC to host 27 blood drives.

The 2026 drive on April 15 marked a major milestone: RCDS surpassed 1,000 total donations as a school community. Senior Cason Dean ’26 made the milestone donation, joined by faculty and local leaders including Rye Mayor Josh Nathan, Rye City Council Member Amy Kesavan P'30, P'32, and Westchester County Legislator Anand Nambiar.

In recognition of this achievement, the Westchester County Board of Legislators issued a proclamation declaring April 23 Rye Country Day School Day in Westchester County.

“We are deeply humbled by this county recognition. Our commitment to service and community partnership drives everything we do. Being able to host a blood drive for two decades with the partnership of New York Blood Center is very special to us. Thank you.”

– Head of School Randall Dunn

RCDS extends heartfelt gratitude to NYBC for this important partnership, to our community members for donating and helping organize the drive, and Mayor Nathan, Council member Kesavan, and Legislator Nambiar for their support.

CLEANIN’ UP!

The Edith Read Beach Clean-Up Program wrapped up its fourth year as part of Rye Country Day’s Sustainability and Public Purpose programs. The program’s goal is to empower students to volunteer in their community by cleaning up the wildlife sanctuary in Rye. Along the way, the students also learn about how they can be leaders in sustainability and make the world a better place.

WILDCATS AROUND THE WORLD TURNS 10

This beloved lunch-and-learn series invites students to reflect on global citizenship and share multicultural experiences. Highlights from 2025-26 included student presentations on Rye Country Day’s Summer Travel Programs in Iceland and Peru, the Civil Rights Summer Program in Georgia and Alabama, juniors’ School Year Abroad experiences in Viterbo, Italy, and Zaragoza, Spain, and 10 days spent in Aix-en-Provence through the School's Language Exchange Program.. Wonderful reflections on the benefits of immersive global learning all around!

Students interested in studying abroad can contact Daniel Murray, RCDS Director of Global Studies, to learn more about available programs.

MS LESSONS IN PUBLIC PURPOSE & LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS

Sixth graders deepened their understanding of public purpose this spring through partnerships with Meals on Main Street (MoMS) and Our New Way Garden (ONWG). Through discussions on food insecurity, students explored how communities can respond with care and action. Students met with MoMS CEO Jon Haseltine to learn about mobile food distribution across Westchester, while others visited ONWG to study sustainable farming and equitable food systems. The groups later swapped experiences, gaining a broader perspective on addressing food access.

EARLY LESSONS IN FOOD INSECURITY, COMPASSION, AND SERVICE

Pre-Kindergartners welcomed Assistant Director of Public Purpose Noelle Morano for a readaloud of Maddi’s Fridge, introducing themes of food insecurity, compassion, and service. Students then learned about the Carver Center’s work supporting the Port Chester community. Later, alongside their Grade 4 buddies, they decorated canvas bags to donate to the Center’s food pantry—an engaging day of learning and giving back.

WIDE-EYED, BIG-HEARTED LITTLE SCIENTISTS

A fan-favorite spring science unit in the Lower School is the study of the life cycle of chickens. Twenty-one fertilized eggs were housed in incubators in the Kindergarten and Science classrooms. Under the light and through the translucent egg shells, wideeyed Kindergarten scientists observed veins and the beginning of chick growth, including the eye. After the long awaited hatching, the Kindergarteners cared for the chicks!

THE PHYSICS OF CARNIVAL GAMES

Eighth graders created carnival games using recycled materials that demonstrated one or more of Newton’s Laws of Motion. Their games were required to exercise contact forces (push, pull, friction, normal force) and transfer of energy. Students worked in pairs to build their games in the Makerspace and then played and reviewed each other’s creations. The project emphasized collaboration, problem-solving, creativity, and applying physics concepts to real-world designs.

INTERDISCIPLINARY STEAMWORK

Fourth graders explored animal adaptations and Native American pourquoi tales, then brought their learning to life through a STEAM project. Working in pairs, they researched and wrote stories, built environments, and programmed robots as characters. Projects ranged from oceans to the Arctic, with robots in animal “costumes.” The unit culminated in a showcase, where students shared their creative, interdisciplinary work with families.

CROSSGENERATIONAL SERVICE AND LEARNING

Kindergarten students explored intergenerational friendships with Assistant Director of Public Purpose Noelle Morano, including a readaloud of Mr. George Baker and an introduction to Project Linus. They then visited The Osborn Senior Living, partnering with residents to create fleece blankets for children in need. The experience highlighted the importance of giving back while fostering meaningful connections between students and seniors.

DEEPENING SHAKESPEAREAN LEARNING

In January, the RCDS English and Drama Departments hosted the ESU National Shakespeare Competition. Thirteen Upper School students performed monologues in the Black Box Theater, judged by Dr. Harding, Ms. Henerey, and Dr. Wayne. Emceed by Mx. Viñas, the competition highlighted students’ public speaking and performance skills, focusing on interpretation, expression, and communication. Congratulations to all of our student monologists, including the three winners: Chaim Sciamma ’27 (first place), Dana DaCosta ’26 (second place), and Lillian Pereira ’27 (third place). As the RCDS winner, Chaim went to Branch Semi-Finals in New York City. He delivered another winning performance that earned him a spot in the branch finals.

Leading up to the competition, Upper School students in Dr. Harding’s Shakespeare Honors Seminar and Mx. Viñas’s Public Speaking class welcomed playwright Jessica Huang for a discussion on Shakespearean adaptation and contemporary playwriting. Ms. Huang shared insights from her work—including her upcoming Broadway adaptation of 10 Things I Hate About You —and led a script reading, offering students a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.

COURAGE THROUGH POETRY

Upper School students in Mr. Cerpa’s and Ms. Tinsley-Beavers’s Honors poetry seminars shared original work at the first “We Speak Together” Poetry Slam. Students studied diverse poetic styles and historical contexts, from African American literary traditions to contemporary voices. Their poems explored identity, friendship, perseverance, and hope, offering a powerful expression of this year’s theme of COURAGE in front of peers and teachers.

LET’S READ, LET’S DISCUSS!

The Parent-Faculty Book Club concluded a second successful year. In the fall, winter, and spring, RCDS parents/guardians and teachers gathered to discuss renowned books about issues that are important for a school community to explore. The spirited discussions are a testament to Rye Country Day’s commitment to home-school partnership and learning in community. Thank you to all who joined us in 2025-26. For the rest of the community, we highly recommend these thought-provoking books. Happy Reading!

• The Science of Motivating Young People by David Yeager • Of Boys and Men by Richard Reeves

• Raising Mentally Strong Kids by Dr. Daniel G. Amen and Dr. Charles Fay

STRONG VISITING ARTISTS PROGRAM: PARSONS DANCE

On January 8, RCDS welcomed Parsons Dance for a performance through the Strong Visiting Artists Program. Students in all divisions enjoyed a world-class performance from the Parsons dancers, who are known for their dynamic blend of precision, musicality, and expressive movement. Upper School dancers in Cedar Street Dance Company also participated in a master class. The visit, supported by the Strong family, enriched the school’s arts program and inspired students through professional dance and education. RCDS is extremely grateful for the Strong Family, Roger and Nancy Strong P’12, and their daughter Sarah Strong ’12, for their continued generosity in bringing exceptional visiting artists to campus and enriching the cultural life of the Rye Country Day community.

ROBOTICS

Rye Country Day School’s robotics program delivered a dynamic and successful 2025-26 season, with both Upper and Middle School teams demonstrating growth, creativity, resilience, technical skill, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

The Upper School teams opened the season in December at the VEX V5RC Push Back Qualifier, where they showcased strong driving and programming skills. At a January competition, Teams B and C earned

EXPLORING POLICY FOR A COLLABORATIVE FUTURE

In the fall, Rye Country Day hosted its second Student Action Summit, centered on “Sustainability and Policy for a Collaborative Future,” with students and faculty from several regional schools. Alum Adam Berenzweig ’93 delivered the keynote, sharing his work in regenerative agroforestry and food systems. Student speakers Eliana Chorost ’26 and Chase Talpins ’27 explored food justice and equity. The day featured breakout sessions and student-led research, highlighting collaboration and sustainability initiatives.

spots at the Southern New York State Championship, with Team B receiving the prestigious Think Award for excellence in coding and engineering design. At the State Championship in March, RCDS competed against 42 teams, with Team B advancing to elimination rounds and Team A earning the Energy Award for outstanding teamwork and sportsmanship.

The Middle School team also had a strong showing, launching their season at a VEX IQ competition in Queens. Competing against 35 teams, students demonstrated

collaboration and innovation while refining their designs and gaining valuable experience for future events.

Even RCDS’s youngest students explored robotics. At December’s RoboFest, students in Grades 3–6 programmed robots for challenges inspired by global landmarks. Bots followed the Great Pyramid of Giza, bowled through Stonehenge, crossed the Great Wall of China, and even escaped the Ruins of Petra! An excellent way to practice early skills in coding, problemsolving, and teamwork.

CONGRATULATIONS!

FOUR-TIME WINNERS!

Rye Country Day School won the 2026 Young Physicists Tournament (YPT), held at Phillips Academy Andover. The victory marks RCDS’s fourth title in the competition’s 19-year history—more than any other school. Known for its “physics fights,” the tournament features student-led debates on research problems. RCDS students spent the year preparing through lab work, data collection, and theoretical analysis.

Full coverage of YPT will be published this fall in the 2026 Excellence Magazine.

In March, RCDS students presented their research at both the Regeneron Westchester Science & Engineering Fair (WESEF) and the New York State Science and Engineering Fair (NYSSEF), the two largest science fairs in New York State. Eleven students earned awards at WESEF, and five earned awards at NYSSEF, with two students advancing to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) Fair in Phoenix, Arizona, this May. The Regeneron Westchester Science & Engineering Fair (WESEF) allows students to conduct and present hands-on research at the regional level, with top projects advancing.

2026 WESEF RECOGNITIONS

1st Place and Grand Award (Advancement to ISEF): Illaria Liedtke '27 , Chase Talpins '27

2nd Place: Ishana Kumar ’26

3rd Place: Marguerite McDonald ’27

4th Place: Alex Gurion ’26, Felix Mao ’27, Chaaranath Badrinath ’26

Innovations in Biological Sciences Research Award: Eliana Chorost ’26 , Illaria Liedtke ’27

Excellence in Medical Research Award: Michael Goneos ’27

Excellence in the Application of AI: Melody Wu ’28

Environmental Inspiration Award: Daphne Panie ’27

2026 NYSSEF RECOGNITIONS

1st Place: Illaria Liedtke ’27

2nd Place: Shawn Wei ’26 , Chaaranath Badrinath ’26

4th Place: Felix Mao ’27 , Chase Talpins ’27

Full coverage of these awards will be published this fall in the 2026 Excellence Magazine.

On April 17, RCDS’s Upper School Envirothon Team won first place in the oral presentation at the 2026 Westchester County Regional Envirothon, marking their fifth straight category win and second consecutive presentation victory. Students developed a plan to reduce residential nonpoint source pollution. The competition focuses on environmental science and problem-solving for students across multiple counties.

ENVIROTHON TEAM: Shawn Wei ’26, Ray Cao ’26, Aarush Dey ’27 , Zara Khemlani ’27 , Parker Maritzen ’27 , Marguerite McDonald ’27 , Juliette Moore ’27, Daphne Panie ’27, Chase Talpins ’27 , Tancrede Weinstein ’27, Peter Valenton ’27, Charlie MacGuffie ’28 , Marin Gokgol-Kline ’28 , Finley Bethea ’28 , and Jack Raczynski ’29

Coaches: Kerry Linderoth, Director of Sustainability; Nicole Zazzarino, Science Lab Technician; and Henry Myers, Director of Forest Education at Rye Nature Center

Upper School poets Sanaa Swain ’28 and Alexandra Steyn ’27 (pictured from left to right) were named finalists in the 10th Annual Storm King Poetry Contest & Festival, a regional competition drawing entries from tri-state and New England schools. Sanaa and Alexandra's poems were selected from 176 submissions.

Sadie Kolodner ’28 and Juliette Moore ’27 were named Borlaug Scholars at the New York Youth Institute at Cornell. They presented research on global food security—iron deficiency in China and malnutrition in Peru— while collaborating with peers and scientists. The experience highlighted their commitment to addressing real-world challenges through science, innovation, and global awareness.

RCDS senior Ishana Kumar ’26 received the 2026 JWV Community Service Scholarship, honoring civic engagement in Stamford. Recognized for work in music education, science research, and leadership, she will be honored on June 2. Ishana will attend Wellesley College, continuing her interests in science, equity, and community impact.

RCDS students Josie Choi ’26, Mei Macintyre ’26, Caroline Pereira ’27, and Chase Tucker ’27 earned Runnerup at the global Biodesign Sprint: Ocean Futures , competing against top university teams. Their project, Oxyfloat , uses biomimicry and algae to combat ocean hypoxia. They later presented at the Maritime Aquarium through the UNendorsed Blue Schools initiative. Developed through coursework in biology and marine ecology, their work highlights innovative, student-led solutions to real-world environmental challenges.

Shawn Wei ’26 was named a 2026 Westchester County EcoAward recipient for PlastiLess , a project reducing microplastic pollution in wastewater. Developed through research in China and at RCDS, his work has earned multiple recognitions. Shawn was honored alongside leaders in sustainability for measurable environmental impact.

Among the top scorers nationwide in the challenging American Mathematics Competition (AMC) 10 and 12 series, Chaaranath Badrinath ’26, Oliver J. ’30, Alex Kochut ’28, Illaria Liedtke ’27,

Melody Wu ’28, Jade Zhao ’29, and William Zhou ’29 advanced to the prestigious American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), a 15-question, 3-hour exam designed for high-performing students who excel in the AMC. Melody Wu ’28 also advanced to the highly selective USA Junior Mathematical Olympiad.

All 14 Rye Country Day students who were named National Merit Semifinalists in the fall have advanced to Finalist standing. As Finalists, each student received a Certificate of Merit attesting to their distinguished performance in the competition. The National Merit Scholarship Program selects just 1% of the 1.5 million high school seniors that enter the program based on their PSAT/NMSQT scores.

Full coverage of these awards will be published this fall in the 2026 Excellence Magazine.

38 students from Rye Country Day School were honored for their outstanding original work in this year’s Scholastic Art & Writing Awards , winning Gold and Silver Key designations as well as Honorable Mention. Known as the nation’s longest-running, most prestigious recognition program for creative teens in Grades 7 through 12, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are judged by luminaries in the visual and literary arts. Full coverage of these awards will be published this fall in the 2026 Excellence Magazine.

Chaaranath Badrinath Melody Wu

Oliver J. Jade Zhao

Alex Kochut William Zhou

Illaria Liedtke

CONGRATULATIONS!

Six RCDS students earned awards in the 2025-26 Chinese Language Association of Secondary-Elementary Schools National Essay Contest , themed AI and Me . With over 700 entries nationwide, their essays stood out for strong Chinese language skills, critical thinking, and thoughtful reflections on artificial intelligence’s impact on daily life and the future.

RCDS Winners - 2025-26 CLASS National Essay Contest (Pictured from top left)

Gloria C. ’30 (8th grade) – Gold Award, Heritage Track, Intermediate Level

Irena M. ’30 (8th grade) – Gold Award, Heritage Track, Intermediate Level

Alana F. ’30 (8th grade) – Gold Award, Regular Track, Beginner Level

Brie W. ’30 (8th grade) – Silver Award, Regular Track, Beginner Level

Isabella H. ’31 (7th grade) – Silver Award, Regular Track, Beginner Level

Lucas L. ’31 (7th grade) – Silver Award, Regular Track, Beginner Level

This winter, the inaugural issue of The RCDS Research Journal (TRRJ) was published. A studentled biannual publication, TRRJ is dedicated to showcasing original research and multi-disciplinary academic inquiry from RCDS Upper Schoolers. Tenth grader Alexandra Lund ’28 founded TRRJ with a mission to provide a platform for students to share rigorous, independent scholarship—just like student-led and peer-reviewed university research journals.

TRRJ Executive Board

Editor-in-chief: Alexandra Lund ’28

Humanities Peer Reviewers: Ella Schwalbe ’27, Sadie Kolodner ’28, Jenny Xu ’27

STEM Peer Reviewers: Leon Zhou ’26 , Marguerite McDonald ’27 , Emily Gu ’28 , Alison Gipstein ’28

Faculty Advisory Board: Tatum Bell (Humanities Faculty Advisor) and Michael Hirsch and Matthew Jandreau (STEM Faculty Advisors)

RCDS Biotech Club members Tyler Hatstadt ’26, Illaria Liedtke ’27, Cooper Wu ’26, and Leon Zhou ’26 reached the USA Biology Bowl semifinals. Competing across the Americas, they excelled on a rigorous 90-question exam covering multiple biology fields and advanced to the buzzer-style semifinal round, highlighting their strong knowledge and collaborative performance.

Nikolas R. ’30 , Léopoldine W. ’30 , Winnie W. ’30 , and Ian Z. ’30 were named finalists based on their outstanding performance in the Consortium for Mathematics and its Applications (COMAP) 2025 Middle Mathematical Contest in Modeling (MidMCM). Recognized for modeling a responsible zoo, they advanced to the International Math Modeling Challenge (IM2C) in 2026.

RCDS junior Jenny Xu ’27 was named one of five finalists in the New York State Association of Towns Builders of America Essay Contest , selected from more than 70 entrants statewide. Her paper, North Castle’s Vital Role in Securing American Independence , explores the town’s role in the Revolutionary War. Her work has been featured in publications, presented locally, adapted and included in a five-part documentary series commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary, and selected for inclusion in the North Castle Time Capsule.

During the weekend of January 22, the Model UN Club traveled to Philadelphia for the Ivy League Model United Nations Conference (ILMUNC), a major conference hosted by the University of Pennsylvania that draws thousands of students worldwide. Rye Country Day sent 20 delegates representing Germany, the Philippines, and Senegal, debating topics from U.S.-China trade and cryptocurrency to nuclear nonproliferation, AI, and human rights.

Following their participation in the ILMUNC, the Model UN club brought the experience home, hosting the School’s first-ever on-campus model UN conference. On April 18, the student-led RCDSMUNC welcomed peers from neighboring schools to partake in a simulation of the real United Nations. Working in committees in roles of diplomats representing different countries or organizations, students debated global issues, drafted resolutions, and negotiated with others to find solutions.

RCDSMUNC began with a plenary session in Memorial Hall, featuring keynote speaker and RCDS alumna Lilli Schindler ’83, Chief of the Group Programmes and Public Inquiries Units in the UN Outreach Division. From there, delegates moved into committee sessions held on the Garden Level of the Pinkham Building, where they debated pressing global and historical issues. Topics included the ethics of artificial intelligence in business, the Equal Pay Act, and Cold War-era tensions.

It was a terrific day of global learning that built students’ skills in public speaking, research, writing, and diplomacy.

Earth Day 2026

On April 22, all three divisions celebrated Earth Day with its annual Earth Day Fair . Led by the Sustainability and Public Purpose Offices, this beloved RCDS tradition brings together students and employees for an afternoon of celebrating our beautiful planet! The day included an activities fair, bird show, whale balloon, interactive visits with members of the Rye Nature Center, Earth-Day-themed P.E. activities, and a performance by Bash the Trash.

Winter

WildcatWeekends

Rye Country Day School celebrated school spirit at its fourth annual Winter Wildcat Weekend on January 30–31. Friday night brought strong Blue & Gold energy as six Varsity teams—Squash, Basketball, and Hockey—competed in the Scott A. Nelson Athletic Center, finishing with an impressive 5–1 record. Fans enjoyed spirit gear, hot chocolate, Chuck-aPuck, and food trucks, courtesy of the Parents Association Athletic Boosters. Festivities continued Saturday with a Family Skating Party featuring treats, raffle prizes, and a group photo on the ice.

On April 24, Spring Wildcat Day highlighted six Varsity teams in Baseball, Lacrosse, Softball, and Tennis. The Parents Association added face painting, games, food, and spirit giveaways. Lower School students also participated in special pre-game ceremonies alongside athletes.

Thank you to all who participated in making our Wildcat celebrations terrific demonstrations of school spirit and athletic excellence!

Connection through Community & Cultural Celebrations

The Middle School hosted a special Women’s History Monththemed Community Meeting. Mr. Coupe and Ms. Nakos led a Q&A with science teacher Dr. Nina Cheigh, who shared her path into science, her experiences as a woman of color, and advice for students pursuing STEM. In Lower School P.E., Pre-K students learned about trailblazing athletes Babe Didrikson Zaharias and Billie Jean King and their impact on sports history.

Throughout February, RCDS marked the 100th anniversary of Black History Month with programming across all divisions. Upper School students shared personal reflections on identity at Community Forum, while advisory groups researched influential Black figures. The Middle School explored “Faces of Courage” through guest speakers and student panels. In the Lower School, storytelling, read-alouds, and spotlights highlighted notable Black leaders. Divisional mentoring programs also hosted a Black History Month Jeopardy, celebrating the achievements and cultural impact of Black Americans.

RCDS celebrated Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse, with a vibrant assembly by the Lina Liu Artist Group featuring lion dance, acrobatics, and Sichuan Opera. Students explored traditions, symbolism, and cultural practices in class. Festivities included music, art, greetings, and shared treats, highlighting themes of luck, family, and cultural appreciation.

On January 16, Rye Country Day honored Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with programming in each division. In the Upper School, poet (and former RCDS English Department Chair) Iain Haley Pollock delivered a reading and reflections on identity, followed by a student-moderated Q&A and courage-themed workshops, including Writing Toward Justice. In the Lower and Middle School divisions, author Aundrea Tabbs-Smith led presentations on Dr. King’s legacy. Lower School students explored confidence through reading and song, while Middle School students discussed finding their voice.

The next day was the annual Day of Social Impact , where students and families assembled winter care packages and cards for Building One Community. The event was followed by a Lunch & Dialogue on courage, exploring its role in families and community. Both days’ programs celebrated Dr. King’s enduring message of justice, courage, and compassion.

At the 2026 Arts Festival & International Fair, students, families, faculty, and staff gathered to honor and celebrate the many cultural heritages that shape and enrich the Wildcat community. The afternoon included performances by students and professional artists, collaborative art-making, and delicious food that reflected traditions from around the world. The event is organized annually by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the Art Department, and the Parents Association. Many thanks to the parent volunteers and RCDS families who contributed dishes, and to Arts Festival & International Fair Co-Chairs Beena Minhaj P’36 and Neha Jain P’32. Special thanks as well to Mr. Minhaj for emceeing this cherished community tradition.

At the State of the School on March 3, 2026, RyeCountryDaySchoolannouncedits nextstrategicplan,StrategyforExcellence. Designedtoensureourstudentsandfaculty areexceptionallywell-equippedtoseize opportunitiesandmeetthechallengesofan ever-changingworld,StrategyforExcellence willpropelRCDSforwardwithpurpose— asaschool,acommunity,andaleaderin independenteducation.

RosaHyunPerkinsP'26,P'28 President, BoardofTrustees

StaceySotirhos

Randall Dunn

Student-Centered Leadership DR. STACEY SOTIRHOS INCOMING INTERIM HEAD OF SCHOOL

By Lori Ferguson

Dr. Stacey Sotirhos P’26, P’27, who joined Rye Country Day School in 2021 as Lower School Principal, will step into the role of Interim Head of School in July 2026. A seasoned educator with a Ph.D. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, she brings deep classroom and leadership experience, along with a strong commitment to student-centered learning. Dr. Sotirhos has long embraced RCDS’s mission of knowing and nurturing each student and looks forward to continuing to serve the community she believes in so deeply.

“The RCDS community possesses a keen sense of identity, is dedicated to strong pedagogy, and hires faculty and staff who are committed to the behaviors of a learner. For me and for Rye Country Day, students are the center of everything and they always come first,” observes Dr. Sotirhos. “From my first day on campus, I knew it was a good fit.”

During her first year under then Head of School Scott Nelson, Dr. Sotirhos experienced the full power of connection and community that delineates RCDS from so many other institutions. “Scott, departing Lower School Principal Barbara Shea, and former Assistant Head of School Dr. Meredith deChabert were all instrumental in my onboarding,” she recalls. “They were supportive, communicative, and deeply committed to my success.”

feel connected to this place.” A big piece of that puzzle is community engagement. “Strong culture and community exist where people are engaged, where they see themselves as participants, not just recipients,” she explains. “Everyone at Rye Country Day is committed to this vibrant, and rigorous, learning community, and I want to maintain that sense of connection.”

Connection is a link that remains long after students depart campus, she asserts, recalling a recent panel discussion of young alumni now in college. “As they reflected on their RCDS experiences, I was significantly impressed by the depth of the examples; they all spoke movingly of people at the School who had given them a chance to try something new or helped them realize qualities they hadn’t recognized in themselves. The discussion underscored my belief that here at RCDS, we’re not only educators but also mentors who support individual growth in ways that drive belonging and education.”

“I am confident that working together, we can continue to foster a community that develops the intellectually curious, life-long learners that define the Rye Country Day experience.”

When Randall Dunn arrived as Head of School in 2022, that spirit of teamwork continued. “Randall allows faculty and administrators autonomy within the framework of the mission, so we forged ahead with the encouragement to do what we do best. It is the people who make this school and shoulder the work with me—I’m confident we’ll continue to collaborate successfully in the coming year.”

Preparing to take over as Interim Head of School, Dr. Sotirhos remains focused on advancing RCDS’s excellence in academics and community alike. “Rye Country Day is in an exciting moment. Randall helped the School fine tune its mission, make meaningful progress on the Master Plan, and launch our Strategy for Excellence. I am committed to maintaining all of that momentum for RCDS,” she shares.

As has been the case throughout her 33 years in education, Dr. Sotirhos will lead from a student-focused perspective. “Student well-being is at the heart of this coming year for me,” she asserts. “I want to collaborate with members of the RCDS community to foster an ecosystem where all constituencies have a strong sense of belonging and a balance between rigor and well-being. I believe these two qualities can coexist, and to that end, I feel it is essential to understand how people

Dr. Sotirhos is also quick to explain her understanding of what it means to be deeply committed to the pursuit of knowledge. “I love high standards, I believe in them,” she says. “ Excellence is not about perfection. It’s about iteration, growth, joy, reflection, improvement, and learning. It’s about stretching yourself and meeting your potential. This generative excellence is at the heart of RCDS.”

First on the docket for Dr. Sotirhos? Listening, listening, and more listening. “I’m starting my term ready to talk to an array of constituents about their vision for the institution,” she notes. “I plan to ask, ‘What does iterating, growing and pursuing high standards look like for you…as a student, as a teacher, as a parent, as a staff member, as a graduate?’”

At its core, Rye Country Day is an intellectual community, confirms Dr. Sotirhos. “If we are cultivating curiosity and wonder in our students, then we’re focused on the right things—the potential is enormous.

“As Interim Head of School, I want to ensure that I’m clear on what’s important to our community,” she continues. “What fundamental work should be preserved and where should innovation be pursued? A strong culture is not static, but we need trust and stability to evolve. I am confident that working together, we can continue to foster a community that develops the intellectually curious, life-long learners that define the RCDS experience.”

RCDS AI Club

By Lori Ferguson

Initial Prompt

“I was delighted when students wanted to provide more data and extend some of the topics we had explored in the AI in Business and Global Challenges and the Innovation and Entrepreneurship courses I teach,” explains Dr. Khairule. Student organizers energetically pursued the concept, and now the Club boasts an active presence in the Upper School.

“The AI Club really sprang from a sense of curiosity and a question,” explains Co-President Felipe Quintero Ochoa ’27. “I started wondering, ‘How does ChatGPT work?’ Once I understood that, I thought, ‘Now what else?’” Felipe joined forces with fellow Co-Presidents Jacob Tucznio ’27 and George Zhan ’27 and Vice-President Christopher Estill ’28 to answer that question—and many others.

While the team admits that the club’s raison d’etre—the study and teaching of artificial intelligence—is complex, they insist its mission is simple: allow RCDS students to meaningfully engage with AI through a deepened understanding of architecture, along with awareness beyond LLMs (large language models such as ChatGPT, Claude, etc.) “We’re focused on teaching other students how AI systems are built and how to use them responsibly,” says George. “We believe that to use AI effectively, you must understand how

Exploring the practical, ethical, and technical aspects of artificial intelligence

Although its inception dates back just 24 months, Rye Country Day’s AI Club is growing rapidly. Conceived by three RCDS Upper School students in the spring of 2024 in collaboration with Director of Academic Technology Dr. Daren Khairule, the Club’s efforts dovetail seamlessly with RCDS’s commitment to developing adaptive thinkers, creative collaborators, and ethical leaders.

it works, not just prompting but the mathematical framework used to build it. It’s synthesizing data, not creating it; it can only spit back what it’s seen before.” Club members also use AI to teach themselves, notes Felipe. “When you’re working with the advanced mathematics behind these models, it’s helpful to be able to ask AI for explanations and examples.”

Local Implications

Dr. Khairule is quick to note that in thinking about projects, partnerships, and pilot programs for the AI Club and other technology initiatives, the focus is always on aligning with the primary goals outlined in Rye Country Day’s Portrait of A Graduate , namely developing students who are adaptive and critical thinkers, creative and reflective collaborators, authentic and effective communicators,

and engaged and compassionate citizens.

To that end, the AI Club is organized around three central tenets: the practical aspects of AI, or how to use it day to day; the ethical aspects, or how to humanize interactions with the platforms; and the technical aspects, or how various AI models function (from LLMs to world models).

“The students have taken the process of establishing the club seriously, setting up governance, inviting other students to join, arranging for guest speakers to visit campus, and identifying real-world problems to tackle,” notes Dr. Khairule. "But how they approach projects and problems is equally important," he says. “Students can go deep and wide in AI projects, but when doing so I want them to understand that they must bring critical thinking to bear when analyzing the

In December, AI Club hosted Arika Madouros Prime ’06, a senior full-stack and AI engineer at Accenture Federal Services.

information these platforms provide,” he observes. “AI is good at data crunching, but the information it yields must be carefully vetted to ensure it’s correct. Students must also learn AI’s strengths and weaknesses; the technology can help us process large amounts of information, but defining the problem to be addressed is a more human-focused exercise. As we educate our students on AI, we must always ensure that they are using this resource with fidelity and approaching its application with a sense of agency, integrity and authenticity.”

Early Results

AI Club members have taken this directive to heart. Over the course of the Club’s first year, members have worked hard to educate their fellow students. They have organized a host of classes, including presentations on an Introduction to AI, Neural Networks from First Principles, the Transformer Architecture (the architecture that powers language models), and Quantitative Finance. The AI Club also hosted guest speakers, including Christopher Kercher P'28, P'28, P'32, P'33, Founder and Head of the AI & Data Analytics Group at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP, and Arika Prime ’06, a senior full-stack and AI engineer at Accenture Federal Services.

Club members have also spearheaded several projects in service of the School, including creation of an email marketing workflow for hockey and nutrition coach Justin Cohn and a collaborative initiative with Flik Dining in which AI Club members developed a system to analyze food waste data and compare it to the daily menu to determine what types of food, and how much, should be served at each meal.

A Global Vision

Felipe, George, and Jacob were instrumental in launching a complementary international organization, AI Youth Global Organization (AIYGO). Founded in October of 2025 by a handful of students from the United States, Mexico, New Zealand, Nepal, and South Korea (many of whom met at the awards ceremony for the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) in Hong Kong), AIYGO's mission is to make AI education accessible to high school students around the world and create an international research network for those interested in the discipline. Less than a year after its founding, the organization now consists of over 600 chapteraffiliated members across 13 countries, including fellow high school researchers and leaders such as IMO medalists,

international Olympiad representatives, and students already conducting research at institutions like MIT and NASA.

AIYGO is governed by a formal charter, written by the students themselves, that addresses everything from voting procedures and judicial governance to intellectual property rights and international jurisdiction. Its active research program, conducted in partnership with the Yee Collins Research Group, is producing work that’s being submitted to NeurIPS and EMNLP, two of the most selective research conferences in machine learning and natural language processing. Eight members are currently interning at partner organizations. Dr. Khairule is not surprised that the students have realized such success

with their undertaking. “What’s most compelling about the growth of the AI Club and the emergence of AIYGO is how it reflects the aspirations of an RCDS education,” he observes. “Felipe, George, and Jacob are exploring advanced ideas in artificial intelligence through hands-on work and collaboration while also engaging in ethical questions and extending their learning into a global network of peers. It’s a powerful example of curiosity, innovation, and service coming together in meaningful ways.”

In March, the AI Club heard from Christopher Kercher P'28, P'28, P'32, P'33, founder of Quinn Emanuel’s AI & Data Analytics Group, and Jennifer Reaves, the firm’s Lead Innovation Counsel.

In November, Head of School Randall Dunn, Director of Academic Technology Dr. Daren Khairule, NVIDIA Executive Communications alum Kevin Acocella, and Felipe Quintero Ochoa ’26 discussed the rapid evolution of AI and its growing influence on education, careers, and daily life.

Farewell to our 2026 Retirees

GINNY BLACK

MS Language Arts Teacher (48 years of service)

After nearly five decades of bringing extraordinary dedication, heart, and soul to RCDS, Ginny Black will retire at the end of the 2025-26 school year. Ms. Black will leave behind a legacy of literary excellence and a deep love of teaching and learning that will be forever present in our school community.

“I really love children. I love books, I love writing, and I love grammar—the only place I could think to combine all of them is the classroom.” —Ginny Black

Ms. Black began her career in education in Pennsylvania, serving as a practice teacher at Northwest High School in 1972 and later as a permanent substitute at Nanticoke High School and St. Hedwig’s School. From 1976 to 1978, she went on to teach Math and English at Wyoming Seminary and then English and Journalism at The Community School in Tehran, Iran. While building her teaching career, she earned her M.A. in English from the Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College, having previously received her B.A. in English from Wilkes University. She also holds an M.F.A. in Writing from Manhattanville College.

In 1978, RCDS was privileged to welcome Ms. Black to campus as an English teacher in Grades 5-8, beginning what would become a deeply imprinting lifelong tenure. From that very moment, she has taught Language Arts with passion, purpose, and aplomb. In 1987, she became Grades 5-8 Language Arts Coordinator. Her early years at RCDS would combine her love of literature with teaching—all fueled by her enthusiasm for the magic of the middle school years! “Every day, Middle Schoolers do something different and new; their joy for life is so exciting … they’re like little sponges, and they love a challenge, and they love to laugh." From 2008 to 2011, she served as MS Language Arts Department Chair, setting the stage for the enriching curriculum the program boasts today.

All of her students know that for Ms. Black, reading and writing are ways to examine the world and ourselves. Each story is an opportunity to explore larger concepts—the big stuff—like the human experience, character, and how we are all connected and called upon to care for one another. Once asked about teaching Middle Schoolers, she effused, “When they write—and they write beautiful sentences that are like music—that’s magic to me.”

Over the past almost half-century at RCDS, Ms. Black’s impact has extended far beyond the classroom. She has served as a mentor, advisor, department chair, accreditation steering committee member, and steady keeper of the School’s spirit,

conscience, and core values. Her classroom—lovingly described by colleagues as museum-like—reflects her deep love of literature and learning and her years of teaching. To name just a few artifacts, her classroom is home to mimeographed worksheets from the 1980s and mountains of reading glasses, which she is happy to lend any colleague in a pinch!

Long celebrated by colleagues and students at RCDS, Ms. Black is among the recipients of the Martin L. Kleinbard Award, which was given to faculty members who make a meaningful impact on the life of the School. She is also among the class of 2018 recipients of the Cohen Awards for Excellence in Teaching.

On a community level, you can always find Ms. Black eagerly supporting the Book Fair or bringing a festive presence with her signature holiday sweaters. “Ginny is someone who exudes joy and warmth in every hallway conversation,” is a refrain shared by longtime colleague Betsy Stedman and echoed harmoniously by colleagues across the School.

Five years into his RCDS tenure, Donald Kyle moved to teaching seventh- and eighth-grade Language Arts, beginning a long and meaningful friendship with Ms. Black. “Like so many of her students over these years, I will always cherish the model of Ginny's combination of deep calm and equally deep passion for the language arts (so rightfully called!). I'll also hold dear her

friendship ... and her musical passions—she values Bonnie Raitt, John Prine, Bruce Springsteen, and the Stones almost as much as she loves Steinbeck and Harper Lee!”

Indeed, all of Ms. Black’s colleagues and former students will tell you that her impact as a teacher is immeasurable. She possesses the ability to meet children exactly where they are to build their confidence, nurture their voices, and help them discover the beauty and power of words. You know the measure of a teacher when you hear sixth graders in the hall expressing how excited they are for her now-legendary Literary Dinner Party Project! Notably, Ms. Black was among the first RCDS faculty members to introduce multicultural literature into the curriculum, broadening perspectives and enriching minds.

From beloved projects like the Literary Dinner Party to the study of classics, including To Kill a Mockingbird, Cannery Row, and Sweet Thursday, Ms. Black has created experiences that made literature come alive in the hearts and minds of five generations of RCDS students. She has also embraced innovation. She was an early and avid supporter of the pioneering RCDS Laptop Program, while remaining rooted in the enduring magic of books and storytelling.

As an advisor, Ms. Black excels at navigating conversations with warmth, humor, and unmistakable care. As a teacher, she is transformative. As a colleague, she is steady, generous, and wise. Always ready to give back, she served as a mentor to new RCDS teachers up until this year.

Ms. Black’s joyful presence has been a gift to the RCDS community. How lucky we are to be in the orbit of someone who truly loves her work, her students, and her community! Her beloved summer getaways to Sylvan Lake, Pennsylvania, are sure to be a little longer, but her influence will remain in every confident young writer, thoughtful reader, and passionate speaker who comes through RCDS. Additionally, Ms. Black is the proud parent of an RCDS graduate, Samantha Black ‘03, so you can expect to see her active in the RCDS community as a beloved former teacher and proud alumni parent.

RCDS is profoundly grateful for Ginny Black’s 48 years of dedication, leadership, laughter, care, and high standards.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

“At a school where there have been many, many extraordinary colleagues, Ginny stands out as one of the most generous, selfless, and supportive of all. I'm fortunate to consider her a peerless mentor who helped me to see the power of helping students discover words: those that they would read and those that they would write with increasing confidence and skill.”

—Donald Kyle, Upper School English Teacher & Dean of Students

JOHN HAGER

MS/US Band Director (26 years of service)

After 26 years of music and dedication, John Hager will conduct his final note and retire from RCDS at the end of the 2025-26 school year. A beloved educator, musician, mentor, and colleague, Mr. Hager’s influence will reverberate for generations—in our hearts, the band room, and beyond.

“There is hardly an instrument John Hager cannot play—or repair,” one colleague shared. Others nod knowingly. This RCDS “instrument whisperer” has tuned, fixed, adjusted, and resurrected countless instruments, always with patience and good humor.

“Best

day of my life!”

Anyone who knows Mr. Hager knows his answer to “How are you?” is always the same. It’s not glib—just a reminder that today could be the best day. And what better way to make that happen than through music? This no-frills optimism has drawn generations of RCDS students to follow his lead—and because of him, they do it well.

Mr. Hager earned his B.A. in Music Education in 1979 from The Catholic University of America and an Educational Technology Certificate from Michigan State University in 1998. He has maintained a private teaching studio for decades, working with students of all ages across piano, winds, percussion, strings, and theory.

An experienced musician, Mr. Hager brought to RCDS a rich international career shaped by two decades in Mexico City, where he performed in shows and television programs and with Latin American recording artists. He has also shared the stage with Nancy Wilson, Tony Bennett, and Sammy Davis Jr.

While in Mexico, he taught at several prestigious institutions, including El Conservatorio Nacional de Bellas Artes and The American School Foundation. Bilingual and culturally fluent, he developed a deep appreciation for community through music—and it was there that he and his wife started their family.

In 2000, Mr. Hager arrived at Rye Country Day eager to enhance the band program. With passion and skill, he has taught Middle and Upper School students across woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. He has conducted the 5th and 6th Grade bands, Grades 7/8 Concert and Jazz Bands, and the Upper School Wind Ensemble and Jazz Band. Watching him conduct is thrilling, as is his dedication to igniting a love of music in every performer.

He leads multiple concerts each year, participates faithfully in the Arts Festival & International Fair, and ensures students are ready for events from Opening Ceremonies to Graduation. He also launched the beloved Middle School Jazz in the Hallways holiday tradition.

One of his most magical contributions is his work with fourth graders each spring, introducing them to instrumental study. His commitment to the full arc of a student’s musical journey—from first squeaky notes to confident performance—is remarkable.

“To teach an entire group of fifth-grade trombone players is, in itself, an act of courage,” shares colleague Betsy Stedman. Department Chair Mary Marcell adds that “John has done it with calm patience, humor, and unwavering belief in his students.” He has also been a caring Middle School advisor.

During COVID, when music education faced enormous challenges, Mr. Hager went above and beyond. He created voiceover storylines about musical eras, kept students engaged in theory and practice, and edited ensemble performances into cohesive recordings—bringing music and joy when it was needed most.

Even with his many accomplishments, Mr. Hager’s most treasured song is the sound of his wife and children, two of whom (Dani ’02 and Robi ’06) are Wildcats. Outside the band room, he paints, plays golf, enjoys a butternut donut with coffee (cream, no sugar), and shares laughter freely—especially with his longtime office partner, Ms. Melissa Liebowitz.

As Mr. Hager prepares to retire, we celebrate a master teacher and musician with a generous spirit, and we thank him for bringing the sound and love of music to our community.

In 2026-27, RCDS will welcome 152 new students. Here are some fun facts about our newest Wildcats.

BY ENROLLMENT

BY HOMETOWN

Armonk, NY (4)

Bedford, NY (3)

Boca Raton, FL (2)

Bronx, NY (1)

Bronxville, NY (3)

Brooklyn, NY (1)

Burlington, MA (1)

Chappaqua, NY (1)

Copake, NY (1)

Cos Cob, CT (1)

Darien, CT (1)

Elmsford (2)

Great Neck, NY (1)

Greenwich, CT (12)

Harrison, NY (1)

Incline Village, NV (1)

Irvington, NY (1)

Jersey City, NJ (1)

Larchmont, NY (9)

Los Angeles, CA (1)

Mamaroneck, NY (3)

Miami, FL (1)

Mount Vernon, NY (3)

New Rochelle, NY (4)

New York, NY (6)

Old Greenwich, CT (3)

Ossining, NY (1)

Paris, FR (2)

Pelham, NY (4)

Port Chester, NY (4)

Providence, RI (2)

Purchase, NY (1)

Riverside, CT (7)

Rye, NY (31)

Rye Brook, NY (3)

Scarsdale, NY (15)

Sleepy Hollow, NY (1)

Stamford, CT (6)

Tarrytown, NY (1)

West Harrison, NY (1)

Westport, CT (1)

White Plains, NY (1)

Yonkers, NY (3)

"I hope my students approach all problems with curiosity and persistence not only in the math classroom but in their adult lives."

Tia Gueye US Math Teacher

n What inspired you to become a Math teacher? I was inspired to become a math teacher because I love math and wanted to be a teacher who believes in all of my students. I enjoy working with students to make meaningful connections and deepen their understanding.

My high school Latin teacher at Cranbrook School, Dr. “Doc” Rosenquist, had a lasting impact on me. I struggled, but he never gave up on me. His belief in me and encouragement continues to shape how I work with my own students today.

n Math is more than problems and formulas. What are some takeaways from the study of mathematics that you hope will remain with your students throughout their adult lives?

I want my students to have perseverance and confidence in tackling challenging problems and to trust their ability to figure things out, especially when it is difficult.

I also hope they take pride in their work, communicate clearly, and have good form. Most importantly, I hope my students will approach all problems with curiosity and persistence not only in the math classroom but in their adult lives.

n You are developing a new Math Lab, a dedicated center where students can receive additional support and practice. Share more about this!

I’m excited! The Math Lab will be a space where students build skills, gain confidence, and grow as independent thinkers. It will offer drop-in help, small group instruction, and enrichment opportunities. Building strong skills is fundamental to success in math, and this lab will give every student the opportunities to strengthen their abilities, explore new challenges, and succeed, no matter their starting point.

n How do you incorporate real-world applications or relevance into your teaching?

I focus on problem solving. I want students to see that the thinking they use in math, such as persistence and trying different strategies, is the same thinking they use in everyday life and will carry with them beyond the math classroom.

n Math anxiety is real for students and adults alike—how do you help build confidence in your classroom?

I build confidence in my classroom by creating a space where students feel encouraged to share their ideas. When faced with a challenging problem or concept, I encourage students to consider different approaches, reflect on their thinking, and refine their ideas. This process builds confidence and deepens their understanding.

Caryn Olson

Grade 4

Teacher

n What or who inspired you to become a teacher?

I was fortunate to grow up attending a school similar to Rye Country Day, where I had many impactful teachers that I still think about more than thirty years later. That experience certainly planted the seed, but it was my father, an educator and school leader himself, who truly inspired me. His stories from school life, shared around the dinner table each night, made the world of education feel meaningful, fun-loving, and important. I looked forward to those conversations, and, in many ways, they quietly shaped my path.

Still, I didn’t take a direct route into teaching. In college, I double majored in Business and Psychology with plans to pursue a career in HR. After graduating, I took an analyst position at a Fortune 500 company, but it never felt right. One day, my (now) husband came to pick me up for lunch, looked around my office, and asked, “What are you doing here?” Without hesitation, I replied, “I have no idea.” In that moment, everything clicked. That summer, I enrolled in a graduate program in Curriculum and Teaching and took a job in admissions at a private school in New York City. I soon transitioned into the classroom, and the rest is history. Afterward, my dad simply said, “I knew you would find your way.”

Looking back, my inspiration came from a combination of things: a meaningful education of my own, supportive parents who gave me space to figure things out, and people in my life who asked the right questions at the right time. I’m grateful for it all.

n What is your favorite part of teaching fourth grade?

There are so many meaningful aspects of the fourth-grade curriculum that never lose their impact. Highlights include our interactive math program with Class Economy and our Language Arts unit on Social Issues, both of which challenge students to think critically and solve problems in authentic ways. That said, my favorite part of teaching fourth grade goes beyond the curriculum. As a Lower School homeroom teacher, the word “home” truly matters. Before any deep learning can happen, it’s essential to create a classroom environment where everyone feels safe, known, and valued. When that sense of belonging is established, the real magic happens. Students feel comfortable taking risks, celebrating successes, and supporting one another through challenges. All of us working together to build a classroom community that is both supportive and joyful is, and always will be, my favorite part of teaching.

n Do you have one standout example of COURAGE from this past year? Courage shows up in many ways each day in the Lower School, but one standout example comes from our Lower School Morning Meeting. As the oldest students, fourth graders take on the responsibility of hosting those meetings. It is an important leadership role that includes preparing during recess and speaking in front of a large audience of students, faculty, and families.

For some students, public speaking comes naturally; for others, it can feel overwhelming. One student in particular was initially very anxious about hosting and asked if he could take more time to observe before taking on the role. That decision alone showed real self-awareness and courage. A few months later, when his turn came, he truly rose to the occasion. He gladly sacrificed recess time to prepare, accepted feedback thoughtfully, practiced at home, and worked through his nerves. In the end, he delivered a presentation he should be proud of. What stood out most was that his courage wasn’t just in standing up to speak—it was in recognizing what he needed, advocating for himself, and then following through with perseverance and hard work. It was a powerful reminder that courage often involves both vulnerability and determination, and that we are all capable of doing difficult things. Well done, Wildcat!!

n Grade 4 is the “senior year” of Lower School, which is a special leadership role early bearing lessons in responsible citizenship. What does that look like in daily school experiences for fourth graders? As the senior members of the Lower School, fourth graders step into a meaningful leadership role that carries both honor and responsibility. Early in the year, we mark this transition with a dedicated Leadership Day in September. On that day, students come together to reflect on what it truly means to be a leader. They explore questions such as: What makes a good leader? What traits do impactful role models possess? And what choices will we make as leaders in our community?

Leadership Day concludes with the creation of a class motto, words that guide the fourth grade throughout the year. This year’s motto, displayed proudly in the hallway, is: “A true leader is not measured by the size of their strength, but by the size of their heart.” This message becomes a touchstone for how students approach their daily interactions and responsibilities.

Throughout the year, students deepen their understanding of leadership in a variety of ways. They meet with Upper School Peer Mentors, who candidly share real-life examples of what it looks like to be a role model in everyday settings - whether in the classroom, the cafeteria, or the hallway. Guided discussions, often facilitated by Dr. Barker, present students with realistic scenarios that encourage thoughtful reflection and conversation. These moments help students consider challenges to “stepping up,” explore different forms of leadership, and recognize that leadership is not always loud or immediately visible.

Most importantly, fourth graders are given daily opportunities to live out these values. Whether working with Pre-K and Kindergarten buddies, engaging in book club discussions, or playing together at recess, students practice empathy, responsibility, and initiative. In these small but meaningful moments, leadership becomes not just a concept, but a habit— one that shapes their experience as the leaders of the Lower School.

"All of us working together to build a classroom community that is both supportive and joyful is, and always will be, my favorite part of teaching."

n Problem solving is a critical skill for success in our ever changing world, and it involves resilience, collaboration, and confidence. How do you help students develop these attributes in your classroom, and how can families support this growth at home?"

At Lower School Curriculum Night each fall, I like to share a piece of advice I first heard early in my teaching career: “Prepare your child for the path; don’t prepare the path for your child.” This idea is at the heart of developing strong problem-solving skills.

In the classroom, there is rarely just one way to solve a problem, especially in math. When students share multiple strategies, they deepen their understanding and learn that what works for one person may not work for another. Through partner work and small group collaboration, students practice explaining their thinking, listening to others, and adjusting their approach. Whether they begin with a visual model or an equation, the process matters just as much as the outcome. If answers differ, even better! This gives us an opportunity to analyze where thinking diverged and learn from it.

Problem solving, at its core, is about asking questions, taking risks, offering ideas, receiving feedback, and being willing to pivot. It requires both confidence and humility, and it thrives in a classroom culture where mistakes are seen as opportunities rather than setbacks. Families can support this growth at home by reinforcing that the goal is not perfection, but perseverance. When children encounter challenges, the most valuable response is not to step in with the answer, but to encourage them to think through what they might try next. Real growth happens when students experience confusion, work through it, and come out the other side with greater understanding. In the end, resilience is built not by avoiding mistakes, but by learning how to respond to them. That’s a skill that extends far beyond the classroom.

Ryan Horton Middle School Language Arts Teacher

n What inspired you to become a Language Arts teacher, and in Middle School specifically?

I have loved writing since early on in elementary school. Creative writing is a longtime passion of mine, and it is rewarding to support students develop their own self-expression skills. I also recognize the wonderful power literature possesses; it can provide a much-appreciated escape, an exploration of humanity, or an education in something we are eager to learn.

n What is your favorite book, story, or unit to teach and why? It largely depends on student engagement. Some years students respond with joy to the wacky world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and in other years it is a historical fictional tale like Night on Fire or Number the Stars that inspires them to learn more about history and to pull back the layers of a character.

n Language Arts Teachers, especially in MS, can have a profound impact and spark a lifelong love of reading in students. How do you do that? Inspiring a love of reading looks different for every student. I focus on helping students uncover the depth and relevance of the texts we study, while also prioritizing independent reading. A key part of my approach is connecting students with books that match their interests. I make personalized recommendations, encourage peer suggestions, and create a classroom culture where it’s okay not to like every book, as long as we keep exploring.

n What book should every Middle Schooler and adult read? I remember being impressed by how good a young adult novel could be when I first read Rebecca Stead’s When You Reach Me?

n You’re traveling to another planet and can only take THREE books. List them and tell us why you chose them! Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury—because he does a fantastic job dealing with heavy topics in absurd, hyperbolic ways. The Farside by Gary Larson—because laughter is critical. An empty journal—so I can write!

"A key part of my approach is connecting students with books that match their interests. I make personalized recommendations, encourage peer suggestions, and create a classroom culture where it’s okay not to like every book, as long as we keep exploring."

UNE EXPÉRIENCE VRAIMENT MAGNIFIQUE!

This past spring, Rye Country Day School hosted its second annual Language Exchange in France, part of a broader program designed to strengthen Upper School students’ language skills and cultural understanding. This year’s destinations—France and Spain—align with the School’s modern language offerings.

Led by French teacher Dr. Maggie Parker, the France exchange took place from March 5th to the 14th in Aix-en-Provence. Fifteen students lived with host families, attended classes at La Nativité K–12 school, joined extracurricular activities, and explored the Provence region. Immersed in daily French life, students shadowed their peers and experienced both the similarities and differences of another academic system.

In the classroom, students participated in subjects ranging from science and economics to philosophy and literature, practicing French while engaging in discussions, debates, and experiments. Beyond school, they explored Southern France’s rich culture and history through visits to sites such as the Calanques of Cassis, the Cosquer cave replica, Arles’ Roman ruins, and Les Baux-deProvence. A highlight was a hands-on cooking class with a local chef.

Equally impactful were the connections formed. Living with host families, students built lasting friendships while sharing meals and activities. They now look forward to welcoming their French partners in the fall—continuing an exchange that is both meaningful and transformative.

2025-26 WINTER SPORTS AWARDS

On Tuesday, March 24, the RCDS Athletic Department hosted the Winter Sports Awards, honoring and celebrating varsity athletes. It was an exciting season for the Wildcats, with seven teams winning championships. Each team’s athletes were celebrated with a variety of awards including All-League Honors, Coaches Award, Wildcat Award, and more.

ATHLETICS SPIRIT AWARD

• Ryan Pauta ’26

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

• Coaches Award: Sahar Harris ’26, Mei Macintyre ’26

• Wildcat Award: Claire Jiang ’26

• 2026-27 Captains: Sierra Harris ’28, Maya Torgalkar ’27

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

• FAA Honorable Mention: William A. ’30

• Coaches Award: Henry Kosann ’27, Lucius Liu ’26

• John Sabia Wildcat Award: William A. ’30

• 2026-27 Captains: Henry Kosann ’27, James Wallach ’27

BOYS’ FENCING

• NYSAIS Tournament: Ray Cao ’26 (3rd, Boys’ Epee)

• ISFL All-League: Ray Cao ’26 (1st, Boys’ Epee), Leon Zhou ’26 (2nd, Boys’ Foil)

• ISFL Individual Tournament: Ray Cao ’26 (1st, Boys’ Epee), Matthew Lee ’26 (3rd, Boys’ Epee), Cooper Wu ’26 (3rd, Boys’ Sabre) Qian Wei (5th, Boys’ Foil)

• Joe Rue Coaches Award: Cooper Wu ’26

• Maureen Hartman Wildcat Award: Leon Zhou ’26

• 2026-27 Captains: Niev Bhandare ’28, Mats Danger ’27, Brandon Testa ’28

GIRLS’ FENCING

• NYSAIS Champion: Girls’ Foil NYSAIS Champions (second consecutive season): Bianca Arencibia ’28, Julie Chen ’28, Grace Feng ’29, Ishana Kumar ’26, and Eliana Thomas ’26

• NYSAIS Champion: Grace Feng ’29 (Girls’ Foil)

• ISFL Individual Tournament: Ishana

Kumar ’26 (6th, Girls’ Foil), Camila Reyna ’27 (8th, Girls Epee)

• Joe Rue Coaches Award: Eliana Thomas ’26

• Maureen Hartman Wildcat Award: Ishana Kumar ’26

• 2026-27 Captains: Elaine Fong ’27, Alison Gipstein ’28, Camila Reyna ’27

BOYS’ ICE HOCKEY

• FAA All-League Second Team: Paul Heintz ’27, Jacob Tucznio ’27

• FAA Honorable Mention: Richie Morrow ’26

• Maria Effinger Coaches Award: Richie Morrow ’26

• Charles Stahlin Wildcat Award: Paul Heintz ’27, Jacob Tucznio ’27

• 2026-27 Captains: Paul Heintz ’27, Andrew Leonard ’27, Jacob Tucznio ’27

GIRLS’ ICE HOCKEY

• FAA All-League First Team: Freya Collins ’26

• FAA All-League Second Team: Olivia Bongiorni ’26, Summer Sisitsky ’27

• FAA Honorable Mention: Madelyn S. ’30

• Gil Castagna Coaches Award: Olivia Bongiorni ’26

• Wildcat Award: Freya Collins ’26

• 2026-27 Captains: Summer Sisitsky ’27, Melody Wu ’28, Caroline Pereira ’27

BOYS’ SQUASH

• 2026 NYSAIS Champions (5th straight)

• FAA All-League: Christopher Estill ’28, Zachary Mathias ’28, Winn Metrailler ’26,

• FAA Honorable Mention: Finnegan Estill ’29

• Coaches Award: Christopher Estill ’28

• Wildcat Award: Winn Metrailler ’26

• 2026-27 Captains: Christopher Estill ’28, Zachary Mathias ’28, Miles Wolf ’27

GIRLS’ SQUASH

• 2026 NYSAIS Champions (first in program history)

• FAA All-League: Maclane A. ’30, AJ Bodenstein ’26, Tian-yi Chen ’29, Audrey Demong ’29

• FAA Honorable Mention: Nina M. ’30

• Coaches Award: Yana Thukral ’26

• Wildcat Award: AJ Bodenstein ’26

• 2026-27 Captains: Sadie Kolodner ’28, Alexandra Lynch ’27, Georgina Murphy ’28

BOYS’ INDOOR TRACK

• NYS Federation Medalist: Marshall Brown ’28 (1000m)

• NYSAIS Champion: Marshall Brown ’28 (1000m)

• NYS Federation Qualifier: Michael Allen ’27 (55m), Marshall Brown ’28 (1000m)

• All-State: Michael Allen ’27 (55m), Marshall Brown ’28 (1000m), 4x800m Relay Team (Marshall Brown ’28, Bruce Jin ’28, David Lusman ’29 and Jack Slovin ’28)

• Coaches Award: Harry Holtman ’26

• Wildcat Award: Marshall Brown ’28

• 2026-27 Captains: Michael Allen ’27, Marshall Brown ’28, Jack Slovin ’28

GIRLS’ INDOOR TRACK

• NYSAIS Champion: Kayla Rosen ’28 (Pole Vault)

• NYS Federation Qualifier: Payton Richardson ’28 (55m)

• All-State: Payton Richardson ’28 (55m), Kayla Rosen ’28 (Pole Vault)

• Coaches Award: C.C. Liu ’28

• Wildcat Award: Payton Richardson ’28

• 2026-27 Captain: Jocelyn Rice ’27

WRESTLING

• NYSAIS Federation Qualifier: Kenji Clark ’29

• NYSAIS Champion: Kenji Clark ’29

• All-PSAA: Kenji Clark ’29, Brayan Escalante ’28, James Greear ’29, Harry Moss ’26

• FAA Honorable Mention: Kenji Clark ’29

• Coaches Award: Harry Moss ’26

• Frank Antonelli Wildcat Award: Kenji Clark ’29

• 2026-27 Captain: Jacob Maldonado ’28

'26 WINTER CHAMPIONS

Boys’ Varsity Squash

Girls’ Varsity Squash

NYSAIS CHAMPIONS

TEAMS

Boys’ Varsity Squash

On February 13, the Boys’ Varsity Squash team captured its fifth consecutive NYSAIS Championship, defeating Hackley 5-2, at Spence 412 Athletic & Ecology Center. This wrapped up a stellar NYSAIS Tournament, as the Wildcats defeated Riverdale Country School, 7-0, in the quarterfinals, The Browning School, 6-1, in the semifinals, and Hackley, 5-2, in the championship match.

Girls’ Varsity Squash

On February 13, the Girls’ Varsity Squash team captured its first-ever NYSAIS Championship, defeating The Spence School 6-1, at Spence 412 Athletic & Ecology Center. This wrapped up a fantastic NYSAIS Tournament with the team dropping just one match throughout the entire tournament. The Wildcats defeated Riverdale Country School, 7-0, in the quarterfinals, Nightingale Bamford, 7-0, in the semifinals, and The Spence School, 6-1, in the championship match.

Girls' Varsity Fencing: Foil

On February 21, Varsity Fencing delivered a strong performance at the second annual NYSAIS Fencing Tournament with the Girls’ Foil team capturing its second-straight championship title. Team members include: Bianca Arencibia ’28, Julie Chen ’28, Grace Feng ’29, Ishana Kumar ’26, and Eliana Thomas ’26

INDIVIDUAL HONORS

Varsity Indoor Track

The Varsity Indoor Track team had an impressive showing at the 2026 NYSAIS Championships on Friday, February 27 at The Armory Track in New York City.

• Marshall Brown ’28 was crowned the NYSAIS Champion in the Boys’ 1000m clocking in at 2:31.24, marking a new personal best and 10th-ranked time in New York State! The fantastic mark also earned Marshall All-State honors.

• Kayla Rosen ’28 was crowned the NYSAIS Champion in the Girls’ pole vault clearing nine feet and also earned All-State honors.

Track All-State Honors

• Michael Allen ’27 placed second in the Boys’ 55m to earn All-State honors after clocking in a personal best of 6.58. Payton Richardson ’28 placed second in the Girls’ 55m to earn All-State honors after a personal best time of 7.19.

• The Boys’ 4x800m Relay Team of Marshall Brown ’28, Bruce Jin ’28, David Lusman ’29 and Jack Slovin ’28 placed second to earn All-State honors with a season best time of 8:29.97.

NYS Federation Qualifiers

• Michael Allen ’27, Marshall Brown ’28, and Payton Richardson ’28 qualified for the NYS Federation Championships in March. Marshall medaled in the Boys’ 1000m, coming in eighth place with a personal record time of 2:29.75 — making him the fastest sophomore in NY and the U.S. this season.

Varsity Wrestling

On February 7, four student-athletes on the RCDS Varsity Wrestling team medaled at the 2026 NYSAIS Wrestling Championship. Kenji Clark ’29 took home the NYSAIS Championship Title in his weight class (118 lbs). Kenji’s strong finish qualified him to compete at the NYS Federation. Three other Wildcats also had impressive showings on the mat, receiving medals for fourth place in their respective weight classes:

Kenji Clark ’29: 1st place at 118 lbs

Brayan Escalante '28: 4th place at 126 lbs

James Greear '29: 4th place at 138 lbs

Jacob Maldonado '28: 4th place at 150 lbs

Varsity Fencing

At the NYSAIS Championship, individual honors were awarded to the top-four fencers in each weapon category with Grace Feng ’29 in first place for Girls' Foil and Ray Cao ’26 in third place for Boys’ Epee.

At the ISFL Individual Championship RCDS fencers also had a great performance with six RCDS student-athletes receiving a medal for placing in the top eight in their respective events.

Boys’ Fencing

Ray Cao ’26: 1st in Boys’ Epee

Matthew Lee ’26: 3rd in Boys’ Epee

Qian Wei ’26: 5th in Boys’ Foil

Cooper Wu ’26: 3rd in Boys’ Sabre

Girls’ Fencing

Ishana Kumar ’26: 6th in Girls’ Foil

Camila Reyna ’27: 8th in Girls’ Epee

In March, Michael Allen ’27, Marshall Brown ’28, Payton Richardson ’28, and Kayla Rosen ’28 all received lohud Indoor Track All-Star honors. This distinction features the top indoor track athletes in Westchester and Putnam counties. Below are each athlete’s honors in their respective events.

• Michael Allen ’27: 55m Second Team

• Marshall Brown ’28: 1,000m Honorable Mention, 1,600m Honorable Mention

• Payton Richardson ’28: 55m Second Team

• Kayla Rosen ’28: Pole Vault Honorable Mention

In December, Marshall Brown ’28 set an Armory Track meet record in the Frosh/ Sophomore Mile at the JAMBAR Coaches Hall of Fame Invite. His record-breaking time of 4:33.81 was more than four seconds ahead of the second-place runner in a field of 87 competitors. The previous record was 4:34.59.

Ten RCDS Varsity Field Hockey players were named to the NFHCA 2025-26 High School Academic Squad. The program recognizes seniors and juniors who have achieved a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or higher through the first semester of the current academic year. Bailey Donovan ’27, Dylan Fenyes ’26, Mia Herz ’26, and Kate Keating ’26 were also recognized as Scholars of Distinction, an honor awarded to students who have achieved a minimum cumulative, unweighted grade-point average of 3.9 out of 4.0 through the semester of the 2025-26 school year.

Pictured from top left:

• Bailey Donovan ’27-Scholar of Distinction

• Maguire Estill ’26

• Dylan Fenyes ’26-Scholar of Distinction

• Sahar Harris ’26

• Mia Herz ’26-Scholar of Distinction

• Clare Keating ’26

• Kate Keating ’26-Scholar of Distinction

• Greta Leslie ’27

• Lillian Pereira ’27

• Meera Spencer ’27

In the first weight-class rankings of the 2025-26 wrestling season, Kenji Clark ’29 was ranked third in the Division II (small schools) 118-pound weight class. The initial weigh-in rankings are based on past performance and future expectations for Section 1, catholic, and private schools in the local area. Additionally, Kenji was named to the 2025-26 Wrestling Mean 15 lohud Watch List, which features more than 100 athletes who are expected to be some of the best wrestlers in Westchester, Rockland, and Putnam counties this season. Kenji also delivered an impressive performance at the FAA League Tournament on Saturday, January 31, and received FAA Honorable Mention. Kenji finished the tournament with a strong 4-1 record, recording three wins by pin and one win by forfeit.

Following an outstanding season to close out his RCDS football career, OL/DL Milin Torgalkar ’26 was named to the Class of 2025 Golden Dozen Scholar-Athlete List. In the fall, Milin will matriculate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he will continue his football and lacrosse career at the collegiate level. Selected by the Westchester Chapter of the National Football Foundation and Hall of Fame, the Golden Dozen ScholarAthletes honors the region's top 12 high school football student-athletes each season. 2025 marks the 52nd class of Golden Dozen Scholar-Athletes, who are recognized for their performance on the field, their achievements in the classroom, and their positive impact at school and in the wider community.

On December 22, Caiden Howard ’27 and Alex Vlasto ’28 were selected to the 2025 lohud Section 1 Westchester/Putnam Football All-Star Second Team. Both were named Second Team Defense AllStars, with Caiden chosen as a defensive back and Alex earning recognition as a linebacker. This honor capped off an outstanding season for both players, who

were also named MIFL All-League recipients. lohud All-Star teams, highlight the top football players in Westchester and Putnam counties. Caiden was also named to the New York State Sportswriter Association (NYSSWA) All-State Second Team Defense in the Class B Division. Alex Vlasto ’28 was also named a Linebacker Honorable mention. Players who receive this recognition are considered the top talent in all of New York State.

IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCES

On February 19, six members of the RCDS Middle School Wrestling team medaled and three members finished in fourth place at the 2026 FAA League Championship at Brunswick.

Colin H. ’30 and Jayan K. ’30 took home first place, while four other Wildcats medaled in their respective weight classes:

• Christian H. ’31: 2nd Place

• James W. ’30: 2nd Place

• John T. ’30: 3rd Place

• Jacob V. ’30: 3rd Place

Additionally, three Wildcats earned at least one victory in the tournament and placed fourth:

• Robert D. ’31

• Daniel W. ’31

• Ethan Z. ’30

Girls’ Varsity Basketball

On December 5, the RCDS Girls’ Varsity Basketball team was named 2025 Columbia Prep Tip-off Tournament Champions. It is the second consecutive year that the team has won the tournament. The team defeated Hunter College High School, 41-27, in the opening round and then beat Columbia Prep, 49-35, in the Championship game. Claire Jiang ’26 was named Tournament MVP, with Maya Torgalkar ’27 earning All-Tournament Team honors.

The Middle School A Squash team competed at the 2026 U.S. Squash Middle School Team Championships. The boys’ team competed in the highly competitive Division I bracket, finishing with a 3–1 record. They won the consolation bracket with two dominant 5–0 victories, earning a top-10 national finish. The girls’ team competed in Division II and recorded two

wins, including a major first-round upset over Episcopal Academy. They finished fourth in their division, securing a top-20 national finish.

On February 22, the Girls’ Varsity Squash team finished in 13th place at the 2026 Division I U.S. High School Squash National Championships. This ranking is the Wildcats’ highest in program history. On the same day, the Boys’ Varsity Squash team finished third at the 2026 Division II U.S. High School Squash National Championships. After advancing to the Division II Semifinals, the team finished the season ranked 19th in the

Wildcats Continue Their Athletic Careers in College

11 RCDS student-athletes will continue their athletic careers at the NCAA level. Congratulations, Wildcats. We can’t wait to cheer on your collegiate athletic achievements.

AJ Bodenstein ’26

Bowdoin College Squash

Nate Dunlop ’26

Middlebury College Soccer

Clare Keating ’26

Amherst College Lacrosse

Ishana Kumar ’26

Wellesley College Fencing

Keira Lauri ’26

Yale University Fencing

Marlena Masucci ’26 Duke University Rowing

Winn Metrailler ’26

Harvard University Squash

Joseph Rafferty ’26

United States Military AcademyWest Point Lacrosse

Devon Smith ’26

Wesleyan University Rowing

Oliver Smith '26

Dartmouth College Baseball

Milin Torgalkar ’26

Massachusetts Institute of Technology Football and Lacrosse

United States. This concludes an exciting season for RCDS Boys’ Varsity Squash, who earlier in February clinched the NYSAIS title for the fifth consecutive year.

Paul Heintz ’27, Richie Morrow ’26, Jacob Tucznio ’27, and Aiden Wu ’27 (Pictured above from top left) were named honorable mentions on the lohud Westchester Hockey All-Star list. The list highlights the top players this season in Westchester and Putnam counties.

OUTSIDE ATHLETIC HONORS

Grace Feng ’29 has been selected for the U.S. Cadet Women’s Foil Team for the 2025–26 season. She has earned five ECC medals, including team gold and individual bronze in Riga, Latvia, and gold in Cabris, France. She also won silver and

bronze in Nuremberg and placed eighth out of 226 in the Junior U20 division at the Junior Olympic Championships.

Luke T. ’30 and the MidFairfield Junior Rangers captured the USA Hockey National Championship, the top Tier 1 (AAA) tournament for 13-year-olds. Luke earned All-Tournament Team honors for his standout goaltending. The championship took place March 24–29, 2026, in Plymouth, Michigan, home of USA Hockey’s National Development Team.

Lilia Schukin ’28, Jenny Xu ’27, and Arianna Yu ’28 (pictured below, left to right) each earned bronze at the 2026 ISU Junior World Synchronized Skating Championships in Gdansk, Poland, representing Team USA’s Skyliners Junior. The team placed second in the short program and secured bronze overall. Skyliners has medaled in all seven events this season and made history with seven consecutive Junior Worlds podium finishes, earning one gold, four silver, and two bronze medals.

Charlie W. ’30 competed in the 2026 USA Water Polo National Championships, as a member of the North East Zone. Charlie was selected by the National Team coaches for the prestigious Nick Johnson Inspiration Award, given to players who best represent the vision and values of the USA Water Polo Olympic Development Program. The honor is reserved for just one athlete from each zone.

Zara Khemlani ’27 had a successful performance at the FAA Swimming & Diving Championships this past February. Earning a score of 376.80 on 11 dives, Zara qualified to compete in the Amateur Athletic Union Championships in Fort Lauderdale, FL, this July.

Otto S. ’31 captured the Boys’ U13 title at the LearnSquash/SquashBusters Junior Bronze Tournament in Boston. He advanced with two 3–0 wins, took the semifinal 3–1, and secured the championship in a thrilling 3–2 final.

Veer B. ’31 had a standout fencing season, competing in five national tournaments, including the Junior Olympics. He earned Division II Epee bronze at the Chamley-Watson Cup and placed 19th at the Capitol Clash. Veer also exceeded his seeding at Junior Olympics and posted strong finishes at the Cobra Challenge.

PHOTO:

Performing Arts

Upper School Musical: Les Misérables

The 2026 Upper School Musical, Les Misérables, was a powerful production, featuring soaring ballads, passionate ensemble numbers, and compelling solos. The Upper School cast and crew worked tirelessly to bring Victor Hugo’s story of redemption to life, and their efforts did not go in vain! Over three remarkable nights, the students captivated the RCDS community with this classic story of hope, love, compassion, justice, and courage.

Upper School Dance

At the Spring Dance Concert in April, Upper School dancers from the Cedar Street Dance Company showcased skill and artistry across a dynamic range of music and choreography. The program featured original works by both RCDS students and faculty.

“I have been so inspired by the talent and work ethic of my students and colleagues. I feel so grateful that our students have such a strong music education and that we were able to tackle a sung-through musical!”

BIG LITTLE VOICES TAKING THE STAGE!

—Noelle Viñas, Upper School Drama Teacher

Grade 5 Black Box Production of A Midsummer Night's Dream

The informal performance of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night's Dream in the Black Box Theater is a beloved part of the fifth-grade Drama curriculum. As students prepare to perform for faculty and friends, they learn the building blocks of theater, including understanding their characters/ roles, best practices for speaking and showing emotion, and how to stage a scene.

Kindergarten Winter Sing

On March 3, Kindergartners brought to life Caralyn Buehner’s Snowmen at Night through a joyful collection of songs. Students worked hard on pitch matching, rhythm, and even began exploring the beginnings of improvisation. Well done and well sung, little Wildcats students!

Middle School Musical:

Shrek The Musical, Jr.

This year’s Middle School Musical, Shrek The Musical, Jr., wowed and delighted the RCDS community! Based on the beloved DreamWorks animated film, Shrek Jr. was a hilarious and heartwarming musical filled with catchy songs, colorful characters, and a powerful message that highlights friendship, acceptance, and being true to yourself.

Middle School Dance

Middle School students performed alongside Upper Schoolers in the Spring Dance Concert, a beautiful culminating performance that demonstrated the learning in 7/8 P.E. Dance classes.

“Our Middle School students outdid themselves this year with their amazing work on Shrek, Jr. Ms. Liebowitz, Mr. Fearon and I could not be more proud of the level of dedication, artistry and joy they bring to the stage!”

Kate Henerey, Drama and Dance Department Chair

Grade 1 Winter Sing

On February 26, first graders brought big smiles to their families! From singing and folk dancing to rhythm and ensemble work, the students showcased the skills they had been building all year in music class with Ms. Franklin. The little Wildcats demonstrated courage, teamwork, and joyful confidence on stage.

Grades 2-4 Concert & Ice Cream Social

On April 9, the PAC Theater resonated with music from second, third, and fourth graders. Students showcased the breadth of their musical learning through performances on xylophones, recorders, and ukuleles, and of course in song. The final number was a joyful, combined rendition of Tom Chapin’s This Pretty Planet. Afterwards, everyone celebrated with an ice cream social, generously hosted by the Parents Association!

31ST ANNUAL FESTIVAL CHORUS

"A Vision Unfolding"

130+ Voices Explore Unity, Kindness, and Compassion

On January 24, the voices of over 130 RCDS singers filled Rye Presbyterian Church for the annual Festival Chorus Concert, performing Kyle Pederson’s A Vision Unfolding—a moving musical exploration of unity, kindness, and compassion—alongside pieces by composer/arranger Matt Podd, who was part of the performance. Directed by Music Department Chair Mary Marcell, the intergenerational chorus brought together students, alumni, parents/guardians, faculty/staff, and community singers for the 31st

consecutive year. Congratulations and many thanks to the 2026 Festival Chorus for a poignant afternoon of music and community. Special thanks to Mary Marcell for founding, leading, and music directing this beloved Rye Country Day tradition; to Rye Presbyterian for hosting; and to the PA for coordinating a special luncheon for the performers and hosting a postshow reception for the audience.

THE UPPER SCHOOL

2D ART SHOW featured student work from AP 2D Art, AP Photography, Architecture, Graphics & Illustration, Drawing and Painting I & II, Honors Drawing and Painting, and Photography I & II.

VisualArts

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR TALENTED STUDENT ARTISTS!

UPPER SCHOOL 3D ART SHOW

Assembled Matter, the Upper School 3D Art Show, brought together student work from Architecture, Ceramics/Sculpture, Wheel and Honors/Drawing and Painting classes with an emphasis on design as an iterative, process-driven practice grounded in material exploration and spatial thinking.

the coursework of students in Grades 5-8, guided by the themes of artistic

LOWER SCHOOL ART SHOW

The annual Lower School Art Show highlighted diverse media and explored the artistic process by asking: what do artists do? Preparing their work, students drew inspiration from observation, imagination, materials, feelings, and memories. Younger students in Pre-K-Grade 1 created titles, while older students in Grades 2-4 wrote thoughtful artist statements to accompany their displayed pieces.

Our Year of COURAGE

This year, our school theme celebrated the power of courage— and our parents and guardians brought that spirit to life through their leadership, generosity, and willingness to step forward for our community. With the dedication of more than 100 parent leaders, we hosted nearly 70 events and activities that strengthened connections and fostered school spirit.

From supporting programming and fundraisers to welcoming new and returning families, our parent leaders and volunteers have meant so much to our community—thank you. Whether coordinating grade-level socials, cheering on our student-athletes, or organizing beloved traditions like the Holiday Boutique & Book Fair, these efforts helped create the warm, inclusive community that defines RCDS. That spirit was especially evident at our biennial A Legacy of Courage Spring Benefit, where we came together to support the School, deepen connections, and celebrate all that makes this community so special.

This spring marks the end of my term as Parents Association President. It has been a true privilege to work alongside such talented and dedicated individuals. I am deeply grateful for the friendships formed and leave with a profound appreciation for the many people who make Rye Country Day School such a remarkable place.

Please join me in warmly welcoming our incoming PA President, Katie Stewart P’33, P’36. Katie brings thoughtfulness, energy, and a deep commitment to our community to this role. Over the past year, she has been such an important part of the PA Executive Board, and we are fortunate to have her leading the Parents Association.

I wish you and your families a joyful and relaxing summer, and I look forward to seeing you on campus in the 2026-27 school year.

Warm regards,

Lynelle Chang P ’30, ’34, ’37

Parents Association President 2025-26 PA Executive Committee

Lynelle Chang P'30, P'34, P'37 President

Katie Stewart P’33, P’36 President-Elect

Giulia Arencibia P'26, P'28, P'33 Vice President - Volunteers

Ashleigh Donovan P'27, P'28, P'31 Vice President - Events

Alex Macleod P'33, P'35

Treasurer

Katelin Berkowitz P’34, P’36

Secretary

Pictured Left to Right: Alex Macleod, Ashleigh Donovan, Katie Stewart, Lynelle Chang, Giulia Arencibia, and Katelin Berkowitz

A Legacy of Courage 2026 BENEFIT

Celebrates the Strength and Continued Impact of Rye Country Day

Courage, and how courage defines the core of an RCDS education. “At RCDS, courage is not just something we celebrate every now and again—it is something we practice every day,” he shared. Mr. Dunn also spoke to the importance of courage to the partnership between families and schools. “It takes courage from families to partner so

played the piano.

Current Lower School Principal, senior parent, and Incoming Interim Head of School Dr. Stacey Sotirhos honored her fellow senior parents with a special toast, celebrating their preparation for one of the proudest moments of parenthood: high school graduation!

grandparent LL Cool J! LL spoke to the power of the RCDS community gathering in support of their children’s education. As a special thank you, a group of courageous RCDS moms performed a special dance to Headsprung by LL Cool J.

“Heartfelt thanks to our Benefit Committee members, our faculty/staff partners, and our 13 outstanding student greeters and performers! The Legacy of Courage Benefit was an inspiring example of community, teamwork, and excellence.”

— Lynelle Chang P'30, P'34, P'37, Jaclyn Shanahan P'34, P'36, P'39, and Jessica Testa P’24, P’28

Three alumni who are also current parents— Matt Humbaugh '96, Blair Metrailler '96, and Robin Ponticelli '94—along with Ginny Black's daughter, Samantha Black ’03, read an original poem they wrote for their legendary Language Arts teacher!

Mr. Hager’s daughter, Dani Hager '02, dedicated her beautiful performance of Unforgettable to her father.

Upper School students, Dominique Alvarez ’26, Vreeland Tuncer ’26, and Chaim Sciamma ’27, delighted the audience with their musical talents.

During cocktail hour, Lucius Liu ’26 played the piano.

After-Party fun!

RCDS's Coolest Grandparent, LL Cool J!

Benefit Co-Chairs

"I was extremely fortunate to attend RCDS, and it’s a huge honor to continue my involvement with the School in this capacity.”

Congratulations

to Andrew and his wife, Courtney, on welcoming baby Isabel Rose born April 30, 2026.

Thank you to these alumni for sharing their Reflections on RCDS with prospective parents and students in February.

Emily Cheigh '25, Georgetown University

Julia Heintz '25, University of Vermont

Rosie Isiyel '25, Barnard College

Davis Clarke '25, Case Western Reserve University

David Colin '24, Duke University

Nick Vlasto '24, Bucknell University

Madi Danquah '23, Lehigh University

Follow @RCDSathletics for Alumni Athlete Spotlights! Thank you to our recent participants: Brendan Mooney '05, Madison Haft-Abromovitch ’24, Tara Berger '15, and Daniel de Leon '18 (pictured from top)

Alumni Winter Games & Family Reception 2025

On Saturday, December 20, alumni from across generations returned to campus for the annual Alumni Winter Games & Family Reception. Led by Coaches Gil Castagna and Frank Effinger, along with Director of Athletics Tom Curran, former student-athletes reunited to connect and compete. Hockey alumni took to the rink while basketball alums faced off on the court, bringing energy, camaraderie, and plenty of friendly competition.

Congratulations to our hockey and basketball MVP's Rick O'Leary '81, Lachlan Bommer '25, Francisco Luz '25, and Shamar Williams '25. A special shout-out to the Cooper family, Billy '83, Maddy '16, Annie '19, and Teddy '25, who joined in the fun while also celebrating a very special milestone birthday for Billy.

Away from the action, younger guests enjoyed hot cocoa, cookies, and various arts and crafts activities that kept them happily entertained between cheering on their parents, making it a truly festive event for the whole family.

Alumni Profile

By Lori Ferguson

TAYLOR WASHINGTON’S EXCELLENCE AND SERVICE ON THE FIELD AND BEYOND

Multiplying the Good

Taylor Washington ’11 possesses a life force that is irrepressible. A quick perusal of his accomplishments is enough to make anyone pause for breath. Meeting him is equally disarming as it is impressive–he is funny, intelligent, and articulate. Yet Taylor takes it all in stride, leading with humility and warmth.

A standout athlete, Taylor racked up scores of MVP, state, collegiate and All-American honors at Rye Country Day, Boston University, and George Mason University. After his successful collegiate career, he went on to play professional soccer with the Nashville Soccer Club for 10 years before retiring in October of 2025. And when not on the pitch, he volunteered untold hours with such organizations as Special Olympics Tennessee, the Nashville Rescue Mission, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, The Bridge Ministry and more. These purposedriven pursuits earned Taylor Nashville SC’s Humanitarian of the Year award five years in a row. Amazingly, he was just getting warmed up.

These days, Taylor serves as brand ambassador for his former team; acts as Director of Community Activation for sports-centric organizations FairWhistle and FairSpaces; and serves as a coach and and mentor for good friend Steve Guppy’s 1V1, a top-tier soccer training program designed to elevate the skills of grassroots players. He does all of this while working on his master’s degree in ministry at Asbury Theological Seminary.

Despite these myriad accomplishments and many related accolades, he is knowingly insistent that service is an act of joy that returns blessings tenfold. Taylor is guided by aletheia—a Greek word meaning uncovered truth or sincerity. “I don’t know how it will manifest—whether aletheia for me will be a church, a movement, a platform—but I feel called to dedicate myself to helping others learn the intimacies of God and live out the gospel.”

Kindness, joy, and service are life affirming for Taylor, and he feels fortunate to be able to share that message with others. “At one point in my life, I dreamed of being a cardiologist, but I failed my college chemistry class, so I had to let that aspiration go,” he confesses with a chuckle. Now he’s certain that he’s found another way to heal: “I sit with people and listen to what’s in their hearts,” he says simply.

Soccer, a passion he nurtured at RCDS, figures largely into Taylor’s active volunteerism. For years, he has energetically cultivated personal connections to soccer with an eye to enriching peoples’ lives physically, socially, and emotionally. A case in point is his development work with FairSpaces, an organization that supports the development of grassroots soccer initiatives in underserved communities. Taylor recruits business partners within the community who want to give back, by building a soccer pitch, for example, or supplying uniforms or equipment for a local youth team. “Soccer brings people together,” he explains. “Some of my happiest memories from Rye Country Day were time spent with my soccer teammates and Coach Pereira. A soccer field is a place where neighborhood kids can come together, gain life skills, and develop a sense of community. They build relationships with fellow team members and coaches and embrace the joy of the game.” And they potentially lay the groundwork for future endeavors, Taylor notes. “For example, one of our goals is to create pipelines and pathways for a Nashville kid to play in Major League Soccer one day.”

Taylor’s philosophy is clearly to cherish every moment, an approach he has cultivated since his years at Rye Country Day. “My time at Rye Country Day taught me to always do more than what’s necessary; do what’s needed and then go a step further,” he continues. “When I think about the school’s motto, Not for Self, but for Service, I immediately think of my amazing classmates and the variety of ways that they are making a difference in the world.

“I believe in multiplying the good. If you see good, you want to do good. I do acts of service to inspire others to act.”

“At RCDS, I learned that how you live matters. Excellence is important and every moment is significant. It’s all about how you show up.”

ALUMNI ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENTS

Once A Wildcat, Always A Wildcat!

Ben Pearce ’21 capped off an outstanding senior season at Emory University, leading the Eagles to their first-ever NCAA Division III National Championship appearance and a runner-up finish. A dominant force all year, Ben averaged 23.6 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, finishing his career as Emory’s all-time leading scorer with 1,586 points. Earlier in the season, Ben earned national and conference recognition, including D3hoops.com National Team of the Week honors and University Athletic Association Athlete of the Week, highlighted by a 35-point, 11-assist doubledouble performance. His exceptional play and leadership garnered numerous top honors, including the Trevor Hudgins Award, the Jostens Trophy, UAA Player of the Year, and D3hoops.com Player of the Year, among others.

Shane Regan ’20, a graduate student at the University of Chicago, earned D3hoops. com National Team of the Week honors and was named to the Bevo Francis Top 100 Watch List, recognizing the top small-

college players in the country. In a key win over No. 13 Washington University, Shane recorded 22 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists—becoming the first Chicago player in more than 15 years to reach those marks in a single game. Shane helped lead the Maroons to a 13–1 record and a No. 2 national ranking.

Wildcats Meet on College Courts and Fields!

RCDS football alumni Cole Denson ’24 and Ryan Wolitzer ’16 united at the ACC Football Championship Game on Saturday, December 6. Cole, a redshirt freshman at Duke, was part of the ACC Championship Duke Blue Devils team that earned the program’s first conference title since 1989. Ryan, a Duke football alumnus, played from 2016 to 2019 and graduated in 2020, was also in attendance. It was a special moment for the two RCDS graduates, who came together to celebrate and support each other as Duke pulled off an upset victory. This basketball season, University of Chicago Guard Shane Regan ’20 and Emory University Guard Ben Pearce ’21 played against each other in two exciting NCAA Division III basketball matchups. Both teams were nationally ranked in the top-six. On February 8, Ben led the Eagles to a 97-94 overtime win, with 24 points and nine assists. Shane finished the game with a season-high 33 points, seven assists, five rebounds and three steals. On February 1, Shane and the Maroons defeated Emory, 74-64, with both RCDS alumni finishing the game as the top scorers.

On April 26, Nicky Smith ’25 helped Williams claim the 2026 Men's Golf NESCAC Championship for the first time since 2017. Nicky also earned medalist honors finishing with the best individual score from the tournament. He shot an even par over the three day tournament and won the individual best score by three strokes. The NESCAC Championship qualifies the team for the 2026 NCAA Division III Men's Golf Championship at the Mission Resort and Club in Orlando, FL on May 10-15.

In early April, Caroline Keating ’22 of the Bates Women’s Lacrosse team achieved two impressive career milestones, surpassing 100 ground balls and 200 draw controls. It has been a fantastic senior season for Caroline, as she has already set new career highs in goals, assists, points, and ground balls.

• Send class notes to alumnirelations@ryecountryday.org

• Join the alumni Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/rcdsalumni

• Visit the alumni website: ryecountryday.org/alumni

Class News & Notes

1946

Daughter, Liane Dorsey ’74, shared that her father, George K. (Bud) Dorsey ’46, passed away on February 23, 2026. He was a graduate of Wesleyan University and retired as Vice-Chairman of Argus Research Corporation. In 1994, he moved from Purchase to St. Simons Island, Georgia. He is survived by his wife, Margie; two daughters, Liane ’74 and Cindy ’77; a son, Alan ’79; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Bud was a very kind and generous man, a dedicated community volunteer, and a strong supporter of RCDS. He was also recognized as the school’s oldest donor. He is remembered fondly by many in the RCDS alumni community.

1969

Richard Perlman '69, Chairman of the Family Law Section of the Sarasota County Bar Association, recently conducted a program entitled: Family Feuds; How the Police Keep the Peace. The program focused on how law enforcement responds to reports of domestic violence and the recent efforts of Gabby Petito's mother to enact the Gabby Petito bill, requiring law enforcement to implement a Lethality Assessment to more effectively screen for domestic violence and take the necessary steps to deal appropriately with the victim and perpetrator.

1973

Will Graves '73 was named in Marquis' Who's Who for his extensive contributions to nonprofit work, community activism, and thought leadership.

1976

50TH REUNION

Robert Herbst ’76 is excited to share that his son Ryan Herbst ’11 and his wife, Michelle, had a baby girl, Ruby Dailen Herbst, born March 25, 2026.

1978

Mark Steven Solomon '78 received the M&A Deal of the Year Award for his team’s great work on behalf of their longtime client Hilltop Opportunity Partners.

1980 & 1981 45TH REUNION

David Mittleman ’80 and his husband, Michael, visited campus in April, where they had the opportunity to connect with several RCDS students and faculty members. During the visit, David also reconnected with Donald Kyle ’81 and was surprised by former faculty member and English Department Chair Cary Fuller H'89 via Zoom.

Jamie Allen '80 has been busy composing and performing music of all kinds recently, from Renaissance dances as part of the Boston Recorder Orchestra to solo recitals of contemporary works that employ lots of extended techniques and improvisation. His original musical, Alexsei's Quest, was showcased at the New Works Festival at the Manhattan Theater Center last May, with a stellar Broadway cast.

1983

RCDS Model UN Club hosted its first-ever conference, RCDSMUNC, in April. A special highlight of the event was keynote speaker and RCDS alumna Lilli Schindler '83, Chief of Global Communications of the UN Outreach Division.

1984

Christopher Winston '84 reports he is involved with a fast-growing leader in cloud-based revenue lifecycle management solutions with funding from a growth equity investor. He and his wife, Sally, are going to this year’s Wimbledon tennis tournament and have long-term plans to attend all four Grand Slams. His daughters are having a busy summer as Caroline, a 2024 graduate of Wake Forest, runs the junior sailing program at the New York Athletic Club, along with her sister Caitlin, who is a rising 4th year at UVA. Shannon, an incoming 1st year at UVA, is a sailing race instructor at Riverside Yacht Club in Greenwich. All three grew up sailing competitively at Larchmont Yacht Club.

1991

35TH REUNION

Tanya Southerland '91 was awarded the 2026 Corporate Counsel Women Influence & Power in Law (WIPL) Award for the InHouse Collaborative LeadershipExternal category!

1992

Michele Lallemond Brazil '92 shares that she started a new position as Board Chair at Fiver Children's Foundation!

1993

At the RCDS Student Action Summit 2025, Adam Berenzweig ’93 gave the keynote presentation on how systems thinking and engineering can reshape food systems. He traced the original problem that led to the creation of his farm, Long Future Farms, explained how regenerative agroforestry addresses deeper structural issues, and connected lessons from food system failures to broader sustainability challenges.

Kareen Zahr '93 shares that she was featured in the November/ December 2025 issue of SUCCESS Magazine, in an article titled “When AI Gives Back Time.” The piece highlights her journey of building Hey Kareen®, my AI-powered business coaching app—a platform designed to help entrepreneurs access on-demand guidance anytime, anywhere.

1996

30TH REUNION

Nicole Granston '96 shared that the start of the school year marked the start of her tenure as President-Elect for the Fox School of Business at Temple University Alumni Association.

1998

Maya Rock '98 shared that she started a new position as Managing Editor at Cloud Wars (Acceleration Economy)!

2000

Rebecca Avrutin Foley '00 was invited to join the Board of My Sisters' Place NY, which works to end domestic violence and human trafficking by providing comprehensive services, advocacy, and community education.

Class News & Notes

2002

Nicole Jackson Fanjul ’02 was honored as a Notable Woman in Law by Crains New York Business for outstanding leadership, commitment to community, and impactful contributions to the legal profession.

2005

Thank you to Joe Raho '05, Tufts University Men's and Women's Squash Head Coach, and Elizabeth Wulf '13, University of Connecticut Women's Ice Hockey Assistant Coach, for serving on Rye Country Day's annual panel about athletics in the college admissions process. The event addressed the nuances of the application process for potential recruited athletes.

Thomas Alston ’05 was selected as the 2025 Prep for Prep Alumni Prize recipient. This selection recognizes Thomas’s continued commitment to the Prep for Prep values of excellence, integrity, commitment, and courage. During his years at RCDS, Thomas brought these values to every endeavor, and he remains committed to the Wildcat community as a member of the Alumni Executive Board.

Thomas is currently a Managing Director on the Asset-Based Finance investment team at Centerbridge Partners, L.P., and founded Winning Strategy Group to support middleto low-income students applying to private schools. He continues to strengthen partnerships, leading a Shark Tank-inspired pitch delivery workshop with rising eighth and ninth graders attending the Prep for Prep Entrepreneurship

Camp. He also helped launch Blackstone’s partnership with Prep for Prep and expanded corporate support through a firmwide pitch competition.

Charlie Razook's '05 newest product, the Bushwhacker Bar Soap, won an Esquire magazine Grooming Award, and Jackfir’s Classic Shave Cream was just named “Best Overall Shave Cream” by Men’s Health!

2006 20TH REUNION

Ross Halperin '06 authored a book called Bear Witness: The Pursuit of Justice in a Violent Land. The book shares a powerful true story of how a small nonprofit brought real justice to one of the world’s most violent communities—by simply asking the right question.

For the 250th anniversary of the US, MIT Professor, renowned poet and author Joshua Bennett '06 published an epic poem set that celebrates unexpected lives forged across the nation. “We the People” depicts inventors, dreamers, and innovators in all 50 states.

Dan Lust '06 was honored to be recognized in the 2026 edition of "Best Lawyers in America" in the Sports Law category.

2010

RCDS Alumni Executive Board member

and film director and producer Grant Johnson '10 recently produced his latest film, 100 Nights of Hero. A historical fantasy romance based on Isabel Greenberg’s graphic novel, which comes from a Middle Eastern folktale.

2011 15TH REUNION

Professional soccer player, Nashville SC defender Taylor Washington '11, the team's longest-tenured player, announced his retirement from soccer on Oct. 15. Read more about Taylor in the Alumni Profile on page 50.

Congratulations to Lauren Schumaker '11 and her husband, Otto Leinsdorf, who were married in April.

Congratulations to Carina Sarda '11 and her husband, Pantelis Calloway, who were married in April in Mexico.

Lowes Moore, III '11 finished his run in September as one of the stars in the musical Ain't too Proud - Life and Times of the Temptations.

Ryan Davidson ’11 and his wife, Sarah, welcomed their second child, Charles Marvin Davidson, on March 17, 2026. Big brother Henry is thrilled with the new addition.

Ryan Herbst ’11, brother of Eric Herbst ‘14, son of Robert Herbst ‘76, and his wife Michelle, have a baby girl, Ruby Dailen Herbst, born March 25, 2026.

Allison Farber Tisch '11 and husband Charles welcomed their first child, a girl. Teddy Banks Tisch was born on April 13, 2026. Grandma Pam Farber '80 couldn't be happier.

Amanda Shulman ’11 earned a Michelin star for Her Place Supper Club in Philadelphia, PA. This prestigious award is given to restaurants for highquality cooking, including the evaluation of products, technique, harmony of flavors, consistency, and the chef's personality in the cuisine.

2013

Congratulations to Ariana Boccanfuso '13 and her husband Adam Friedlander, who were married in April.

As a producer, Eve Wulf '13 won an Emmy for outstanding documentary series for The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox.

Joe Raho '05, Tufts University Men's and Women's Squash Head Coach, and Elizabeth Wulf '13, University of Connecticut Women's Ice Hockey Assistant Coach, were panelists on an informative Zoom about athletics in the college admissions process.

2015

Tara Berger ’15 was featured by Wesleyan Athletics. She is a former Wesleyan University women’s basketball player who demonstrated strong leadership and academic excellence while competing in the demanding NESCAC division. She served as a two-year team captain, studied psychology and data analysis, and balanced academics with athletics. After graduating, she played professional basketball in Israel before transitioning into a career in corporate wellness as an Account Executive at Wellhub. She credits her time in college athletics for building discipline, teamwork, and analytical skills that continue to guide her professional success.

Paige Codrington '15 shared that she has been promoted to Clinical Account Specialist 2 at Johnson & Johnson MedTech!

Sophie Grayer '15 shared that she was promoted and started a new position as Head of Product, Strategy, & Innovation at Revolution Foods!

2016

10TH REUNION

Juliet FitzPatrick '16 shared that she started a new position as Business Development Executive at PitchBook! This fall, she was inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame as a member of the 2015 Undefeated Girls' Varsity Lacrosse Team.

RCDS football alumni Cole Denson ’24 and Ryan Wolitzer ’16 united at the ACC Football Championship Game on Saturday, December 6. Cole, a redshirt freshman at Duke, was part of the ACC Championship Duke Blue Devils team that earned the program’s first conference title since 1989.

2018

Matt Boccanfuso '18 shared that he started a new position as Finance Associate at NorthMark Strategies!

2019

Lily Rosen '19 started a new position as a Management Coordinator (People & Culture, Total Portfolio Strategies) at Bridgewater Associates!

2020

Peggy Helman '20 was awarded a Crystal Pillar at the Chicago/ Midwest Emmy Awards for her work producing the news special “From Chicago to the Vatican: The Making of Pope Leo XIV.”

Shane Regan ’20, a graduate student at the University of Chicago, was named to the D3hoops.com National Team of the Week from January 5–11 and was named to the Bevo Francis Top 100 Watch List in recognition of his standout season. This basketball season, Emory University guard Ben Pearce ’21 and University of Chicago guard Shane Regan ’20 played against each other in two exciting NCAA Division III basketball matchups.

Sabrina Reznick '20 was recently featured in The New Yorker with a witty piece reflecting on life before the internet as understood by

someone born in 2002. After graduating from RCDS, Sabrina attended Harvard University, where she served as president and editorin-chief (2024) of The Harvard Lampoon. She now writes under the name S. M. Reznik, or Rezzy.

2021

5TH REUNION

Ben Pearce ’21, Emory University Senior Guard, was named to the D3hoops.com National Team Player of the Year. The Emory University men's basketball team, led by Ben, had a historic season that took them to the NCAA Division III national championship game, where they lost in a heartbreaking buzzer-beater shot. Read more on page 52.

Former RCDS student Liz Lemley captured a gold medal in the Women’s Individual Moguls and a bronze medal in the Olympic debut of Women’s Dual Moguls at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics. RCDS classmate Raven Montagna '21 and her aunt supported Liz from the stands.

2023

In early April, Caroline Keating ’23 of the Bates Women’s Lacrosse team achieved two impressive career milestones, surpassing 100 ground balls and 200 draw controls. It has been a fantastic senior season for Caroline, as she has already set new career highs in goals, assists, points, and ground balls.

2024

Jack de Haan '24 placed second this summer in a speech contest while studying at Princeton in Beijing. Thanks to EAS's Summer Fellowships for travel, several students represented

Brown University in this past summer's Princeton in Beijing program. Jack de Haan was recognized for his academic achievements, including placement in the speech contest.

RCDS football alumni Barrett Pennington ’24 and Trey Stevens ’24 recently faced off at the

NCAA Division III level. Barrett plays as a defensive back for Middlebury College, while Trey is a defensive lineman for Colby College. Congratulations to Barrett, Trey, and all of our RCDS alumni competing in athletics at the collegiate level and beyond!

A sophomore at Brandeis University, Madison Haft-Abromovitch ’24 earned UAA Volleyball Offensive Player of the Week for the week ending November 2.

Thank you to Piper Migden ’24 (Wellesley College Class of 2028Double major: Chemistry and Physics) for joining the Office of College Counseling and STEAM Director Cathie Bischoff at the annual STEM in College panel to provide valuable insight into the range of STEM opportunities during college and beyond. Piper was a panelist alongside Thomas P. Fanning (Senior Associate Director of Undergraduate Admission at Case Western Reserve University) and Calvin Wise (Dean of Admissions at Johns Hopkins University).

2025

On April 26, Nicky Smith ’25 helped Williams win the 2026 Men's Golf NESCAC Championship for the first time since 2017. Nicky also won medalist honors, finishing with the best individual score from the tournament.

LEAVING A LEGACY

The Susan J. Life Society recognizes and honors the generosity of those who have made provisions for the School in their wills or estate plans.

For more information on ways to combine planning for the future and support of Rye Country Day School, please contact Julie McCrory ’03, Manager of Stewardship and Engagement, at (914) 925-4526 or julie_mccrory@ryecountryday.org

Frank Antonelli

Former RCDS Director of Physical Education & Athletics Frank Antonelli passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, at the age of 80.

Joining RCDS in 1994, Mr. Antonelli contributed greatly to the success of the athletic and physical education program during an outstanding 16-year tenure. Under Mr. Antonelli's steady, wise, and caring leadership, RCDS Athletics became the extensive, competitive, and well-respected program it is today in the Fairfield Athletic Association, Westchester County, and the Western New England Prep School Soccer Association. Mr. Antonelli also lent his expertise to the design and development of the current Scott A. Nelson Athletic Center and fields. Mr. Antonelli and his wife, Upper School Math Teacher Sue Antonelli, were central to the heart of Rye Country Day for their 16 years at the School. In 2000, they decided to retire to their home in Vermont, and RCDS established an endowment fund in their honor to further grow the Retired Employee Health Benefits program. The School also honored Mr. Antonelli by naming its annual excellence in Wrestling award the Frank Antonelli Wildcat Award.

“As Athletic Director, Frank Antonelli led the effort to transform RCDS’s athletic program into the outstanding program it is today. That transformation included hiring quality coaches, adding athletic training staff, planning and building a new athletic center, converting the playing fields to artificial turf, adding sports (squash, wrestling, girls’ fencing), re-establishing varsity football, and restoring an athletic recognition (varsity letters) program,” said Scott A. Nelson, former RCDS Head of School. “Frank was the ultimate professional whose vision and dedicated efforts had a tremendous impact on the experiences of student-athletes, coaches, and colleagues,” Mr. Nelson added.

Rye Country Day will forever remember Mr. Antonelli’s transformational impact on our community. His passion for athletics and his genuine love of mentoring young people will live on in our hearts. With every “Go, Wildcats,” we will honor Mr. Antonelli’s legacy of excellence and his caring dedication.

Charles B. Moss Jr.

Former RCDS Trustee Charles B. Moss Jr. ("Charley"), born August 29, 1944, in New York City, passed away September 1, 2025, in New York City, at age 81. A third-generation entertainment and real estate entrepreneur, Charley was the grandson of vaudeville and movie theater impresario, B.S. Moss, and the son of Charles B. Moss, Sr. He followed his family legacy by producing feature films and Broadway shows in the 1970s and 1980s, operating New York's largest independent movie theater circuit, B.S. Moss Theatres (later Bow Tie Cinemas), owning and operating a western states broadcasting company, and co- founding Bow Tie Partners with his son, Ben Moss '93, in 1998. Known for his modesty, Charley often described his career simply as "the boring part", though his life's work was anything but. Charley earned his bachelor's degree

Frank Antonelli graduated from Roselle Park High School and received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Wagner College in 1967 where he played football. He later earned a Master of Arts in Administration and Supervision from Kean College.

In Metuchen, NJ, he began his celebrated career in education teaching sixth-grade science, health, and P.E. and coaching wrestling and football. Moving to his alma mater Roselle Park High School, Mr. Antonelli taught history, driver’s education, and P.E. As Roselle Park High’s Athletic Director and varsity football, softball, and wrestling coach, he earned numerous state and local honors. His wrestling record of 186-32-1 remains a lauded achievement in Roselle Park High School history. He was selected as New Jersey’s Wrestling Coach of the Year and inducted into both the New Jersey Wrestling Hall of Fame and the Roselle Park Hall of Fame.

Before arriving at RCDS, Mr. Antonelli served as Athletic Director at Pingry School and the McDonogh School in Owings Mills, Maryland. He received the Maryland Governor’s Citation for his commitment to the youth of Maryland.

Greatly respected by his peers in school athletics, Mr. Antonelli was President of the Fairchester Athletic Association, President of NJ Independent Athletic Association, and a member of the Board of Trustees of the Teachers Credit Union. During his retirement years in Vermont, he served on the board of Seymour Lake Association and the Board of Newport Country Club.

Mr. Antonelli is survived by Sue, his loving wife of 58 years, and their sons, Jay (wife Ingrid) and Brian (wife Susie). He was a devoted grandfather to Kate, Frank, Samantha, Nikolas, Christopher, Emma, Michael, and Leo. He also leaves behind his brother, Paul Antonelli, and sister, Donna Kull, and many other family members, friends, and colleagues who loved him dearly.

from the University of Pennsylvania, a J.D. from Boston University School of Law, and completed executive education at Harvard Business School. A dedicated community leader and philanthropist, he served at various times as president of Variety, The Children's Charity (New York chapter), president of the American Friends of the Toronto International Film Festival, trustee of Rye Country Day School, fundraiser and supporter of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, and trustee of the Moss Family Foundation. He was a member of the former New York Friars Club, the former City Athletic Club, Maroon Creek Club in Aspen, the Harvard Club of New York, and the Penn Club of New York. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Cook; son Ben Moss, III '93 and wife Ellen-Jane; daughter Elizabeth H. Moss '95 and husband Keith Ohrberg; grandchildren Harrison '26, Jack '28, and Elias; former wife, Robin Heller Moss; and extended family, Dana and Andy Stone and their children, Jessica and Zach.