Spring 2015 Bridge

THE BRID GE MAGAZINE

SPRING 2015

THE BRIDGE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS FEATURES

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The Last Piece of the Puzzle In the last 17 years Severn School has achieved the majority of the objectives defined in the 1999 Campus Facilities Master Plan with the addition of McCleary Student Center; Creeden Hall Upper School academic building; the Edward St. John Athletic Center, The Stine Environmental Center, and soon, the new Teel Academic Center.

Renaissance Man Part of Inaugural Online Learning Project He's always in the thick of things and, as his faculty advisor puts it, “He's a Renaissance man who does it all.” Zak Rosen '16, along with three other Severn students, is a member of the inaugural flight of students enrolled in the Malone Schools Online Network.

Active Learning in the Middle School Q&A with four Middle School teachers gives a closer look at the thought process behind creating an active learning style lesson plan - from concept to execution.

10 14

DEPARTMENTS SEVERN NEWS THROUGH OUR LENS

2 16

SEVERN ATHLETICS

20

ALUMNI NEWS

22

CLASS NOTES

24

On the cover: 7th graders (front) Maddie Hawkins and Ashley Urban (back) Melissa Wong, Emma Agro, Brooke Arnold, Solana Page, Victoria Stamato, and Delaney Dabrowka on Joe's Field in front of Creeden Hall on a beautiful fall day.

S P R I N G

2 0 1 5

EDITOR/DESIGNER Nicole Parker

HEADMASTER

Douglas Lagarde

BOARD OF TRUSTEES, CHAIR Mike Cauley

ALUMNI DIRECTOR Tyler Larkin '03

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CHAIR Scott MacMullan '00

The Bridge is published for alumni, parents and friends by Severn School’s communications office.

We encourage all of our readers to respond with comments, questions and information.

EDITORIAL OFFICE

The Bridge

116 Maple Avenue

Severna Park, MD 21146

Severn School Website

www.severnschool.com

Editor’s Email

info@severnschool.com © 2015 SEVERN SCHOOL. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Severn School does not discriminate against any person in admission, employment, or otherwise because of race, creed, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or age.

Severn School is accredited by the Association of Independent Schools (AIMS), and is approved by the Maryland State Board of Education.

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A MESSAGE FROM HEADMASTER DOUG LAGARDE

Greetings, Every year at the end of February, I attend the National Association of Independent Schools’ (NAIS) Annual Conference. Preceding the conference is a half-day meeting for heads of Malone Schools. Severn became a Malone School in 2012 when it received a transformative $2M endowment gift from the John Malone Family Foundation. There are 50 Malone Schools throughout the country, and we are very fortunate to be part of this exclusive and dynamic group. The NAIS meeting is one of two during the year. The other is a three day event in June at Stanford University. The opportunity to spend uninterrupted time with likeminded heads of schools and share insights, experiences and visions for the future is an invaluable aspect of being a Malone School. Also, because the Malone Foundation provides significant support to Stanford and, specifically, to the Stanford Online High School, the agenda for the June meeting is chock full of some of the most thought-provoking minds in the field of education who reside at Stanford.

These meetings are incredibly invigorating and have provided the time and space to think about the essential realities and conditions of our schools and to share ideas to pursue and innovative solutions to employ. Most important, however, the conference allows us to ask questions about how we can serve our students better; how we can provide an experience that allows our students to be better prepared for the world in which they will live, work, play and raise families. In his book, A More Beautiful Question, Warren Berger writes, “the ability to ask big, meaningful, beautiful questions, and just as important, to know what to do with those questions once they’ve been raised, can be the first steps in moving beyond old habits and behaviors and embrace the new…a beautiful question is an ambitious yet actionable question that can begin to shift the way we perceive or think about something, and that might serve as a catalyst to bring about change.”

The conference allows us to ask questions about how we can serve our students better; how we can provide an experience that allows our students to be better prepared for the world in which they will live, work, play and raise families.

Three years ago at the Stanford meeting, the following question was posed: is there a way to replicate the content delivery system of the Stanford Online High School to provide courses that would broaden the offerings and provide a unique online experience for Malone School students? This big, beautiful and actionable question was the catalyst for the creation of the Malone School Online Network (MSON). On page 10, you can read more about MSON and the experience of one of the four pioneering Severn students who took courses this year. But, in short, MSON provides upper level students at participating Malone Schools with a variety of superior online courses that enhance each member school’s existing curriculum.

MSON teachers have experience with independent school education and share a commitment to excellence, small class size, and personal relationships.

If you have followed the rise and then steady decline of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC’s) initiated a couple of years ago and offered by the most selective colleges and universities through platforms such as Coursera, Udacity and edX, you might question why Severn would venture into the world of online courses.

First, I do believe that with each successive year content will be increasingly

SEVERN NEWS

UPCOMING

EVENTS

APRIL 16, 17 & 19

THE WATER STREET PLAYERS PRESENT "LORD OF THE FLIES" delivered via technology at colleges and universities, and, therefore, it is important for us to provide opportunities for our students to learn in this mode. Second, and most critical, is that MSON courses are taught synchronously — in real-time using video conferencing — and not asynchronously which provides previously recorded lessons for students to watch on their own time. The synchronous design of MSON courses maintain the student/teacher and student/student relationships that are at the heart of a great independent school.

The origin point of MSON is relationships. MOOC’s are simply about delivering content. This dichotomy was driven home for me last February when at the NAIS conference I witnessed the first non-virtual meeting of a MSON teacher from Washington D.C. and his student from Florida.

The genuine appreciation of and respect for each other was palpable.

There was no question that the MSON teacher knew and valued this student.

We all live in a world where technology is ubiquitous. Yet, we must recognize that technology is a tool. It is a powerful tool, but it is just a tool. It's a means to an end, not an end in itself. Technology can’t help us ask good questions or better questions. It is more suited to respond to questions or to broadcast information. Technology is for answers; people are for questions. As my colleagues and I continue to shape an experience that is relevant for our student’s futures, we will do so keeping relationships at the center of everything we do.

Go Admirals,

TEEL CAMPUS

APRIL 18

"ALL BETS ON SEVERN" APA ANNUAL AUCTION CHESAPEAKE CAMPUS

APRIL 22

LOWER SCHOOL FAMILY MAKER CHALLENGE AND MAKER NIGHT CHESAPEAKE CAMPUS

MAY 6

SEVERN SCHOOL PARTICIPATES IN "THE GREAT GIVE" WWW.THEGREATGIVE.ORG

MAY 15 & 16

ALUMNI WEEKEND "CELEBRATING THE PAST, CONSTRUCTING THE FUTURE" TEEL CAMPUS

MAY 14-16

LOWER SCHOOL PRODUCTION OF "CHITT Y CHITT Y BANG BANG" CHESAPEAKE CAMPUS

MAY 26

SENIOR FELLOWS PRESENTATIONS

MAY 30

Doug Lagarde

SENIOR GRADUATION

SPRING 2015

3

SEVERN NEWS

The Last Piece of the Puzzle From Vision to Reality...Almost

In the last 17 years Severn School has achieved the majority of the objectives defined in the 1999 Campus Facilities Master Plan with the addition of an auditorium, dining hall and art studios in the McCleary Student Center; science and technology classrooms and labs in the Creeden Hall Upper School academic building; the Edward St. John Athletic Center, complete with artificial turf fields; and more recently, The Stine Environmental Center, all of which matches the needs of our vibrant community. In conjunction with the renovation of the Teel Academic Center, the $22 million Severn on Course Campaign focuses on enhancing programs and curriculum while growing both the Severn School endowment and Annual Fund for the current and future health and stability of the School to be ready now and for the next century of educating our youth.

The outdated Teel Academic Center tested our community’s creativity and resourcefulness, and while we proved our ability to improvise and innovate, we needed an up-to-date teaching and learning facility. The Teel Academic Center, constructed in 1967 with an addition in 1984, was originally designed as a student residence hall. Up until June 2014, the facility housed Upper School history and language classrooms, Middle School classrooms, Zimmerman Library, the headmaster’s office and college counseling.

Teel Academic Center was also home to the Hoehn-Saric Learning Resource Center, which provides services to support the academic needs of the school community.

The new Teel Academic Center will help shape the campus for our next century with spaces that encourage collaboration, spur imagination, and foster connections and collegiality. The new Center will also drive program innovation and creativity, support the dedicated work of a world-class faculty and allow students to respond positively to the robust standards of an ever-changing curriculum.

Last spring we launched the public phase of the campaign to secure the final $4.8M of which $3.5M is needed for the Teel Academic Center, the centerpiece of the campaign.

With the assistance of our community - parents, alumni, faculty and staff, grandparents, alumni parents and friends - we are in the final phase of the campaign. However, we must raise an additional $2.5M in order to complete the building. We hope you will join those who have supported the campaign thus far.

ALL OF US CAN KEEP SEVERN ON COURSE. Questions? Contact Danielle DeVeau Crawford, Director, Campaign & Major Gifts at d.crawford@severnschool.com or 410.647.7701 ext 2357

Scan the QR code to view the Severn on Course Leadership Donors list

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SEVERN NEWS

$3M

$2M 1

$1M

To make your gift to the campaign go to www.severnschool.com/severnoncourse

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Keeping Severn on Course 3

Severn will evaluate the impact of the Teel Academic Center project by examining its impact on the four imperatives set forth in our 2014 Strategic Plan: 1. One Future - promoting meaningful connections between students and faculty on both Severn campuses.

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2. Sustainable Future - renewing and growing Severn's human, financial and physical resources.

3. Innovation and Technology - developing innovative and appropriate responses to technological trends.

4. Globalism/Diversity - renewing our commitment to diversity of all kinds.

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1. Walking through the new Zimmerman Library; 2. View from the second story walkway connecting Teel Academic Center with Creeden Hall, looking at the windows of the library; 3. Looking at the rotunda, Centennial Hall, facing McCleary Student Center; 4. Standing in a Middle School classroom in the back of the newly remodeled 1984 addition; 5. Looking at the soon-to-be dance studio in the basement of the Teel Academic Center; 6. Construction of the new Zimmerman Library.

SPRING 2015

5

SEVERN NEWS

Wendy Jones '83 Honored as the 2014 Rolland M. Teel Distinguished Alumna

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1. Doug Lagarde, Wendy Jones '83, Mike Cauley, and Scott MacMullan '00 2. Wendy Jones '83 with her husband Neil Skeggs, brother Kevin Jones, sister Tracy Atcheson, and father Richard Jones.

Rolland M. Teel Distinguished Alumni (in order of induction) RADM Herbert E. Schonland, USN '20

Mr. Frederick D. Hunt '30

RADM Bruce McCandless, USN '28

Mr. Charles F. Lynch '44

Mr. Roger S. Ahlbrandt '30

LTG William H. S. Wright, USA '26

LtGen Henry W. Buse Jr., USMC '30

Mr. Alester G. Furman III '35

Mr. Charles R. Zimmerman '25

Mr. Nicholas Goldsborough '52

Mr. Paul H. Massey '67

The Honorable Richard D. Bennett '65

Mr. John D. Betz '37

Mr. Bruce A. Hawtin FAIA '54

LCDR Lance E. Massey, USN '26

Mr. J. Caleb Deschanel '62

RADM Richard R. Pratt, USN '32

Mr. Gary W. Koch '71

Mr. Thomas J. Peters '60

Ms. Sandy Barbour '77

Mr. Stephens F. Millard '51

MajGen Kenneth W. Weir, USMCR (Ret) '48

Dr. Bruce S. Old '30

RADM Edward K. Walker Jr., USN (Ret) '50

CDR Robert B. Pirie Jr., USN (Ret) '50

MajGen Joseph D. Stewart '60

ADM James R. Hogg, USN (Ret) '52

Mrs. Catherine Merrill Williams '87

CDR Edwin Malloy Jr., USN '36

Mr. Steven R. Schuh '78

Ambassador William H. G. FitzGerald '27 CAPT Slade D. Cutter, USN '31 Mr. John K. Hopkins '63

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All Severn School Veterans Ms. Wendy E. Jones '83

Severn School is pleased to announce that Wendy E. Jones, Severn Class of 1983, was awarded the school's coveted Distinguished Alumni Award for 2014.

Wendy was honored at the Inaugural Distinguished Alumni Award Dinner on Thursday, January 22 on our Severna Park campus. The event also recognized all Rolland M. Teel Distinguished Alumni. This award, named for the founder of Severn School, is the highest honor the school bestows upon an alumnus/a. The award recognizes alumni who have demonstrated either outstanding service to humanity, service to community, professional achievement, or service to Severn School.

Ms. Jones is the vice president of geographic expansion and cross border trade for eBay, the world's largest online marketplace.

Wendy is the 34th individual member of the Severn community to be inducted. Among others who have been so honored are Tom Peters '60, the famous business guru, the Honorable Richard Bennett '65, nominated by President George W. Bush to a seat on the United States District Court for the District of Maryland, and four Rear Admirals, two of whom were Medal of Honor recipients for their actions during World War II. Ms. Jones has considerable international experience, having largely built her career focusing on growth opportunities outside of the United States. Her multiple international assignments cover over a decade of her career.

In her current role, Wendy is a member of eBay's executive staff and leads the team responsible for developing and growing eBay's opportunities and presence in BRIC and emerging markets, including spearheading recent launches into Russia, China, Brazil and Mexico.

She also has global responsibility for cross border trade which accounts for over 20 percent of eBay's total global sales.

Jones is passionate about helping to further others' ambitions through a commitment to personal mentoring and professional affiliations within eBay. She is a co-founder of WIN (eBay's Women's Initiative Network) in Europe, which advances important topics for women within the company, and she continues to be an active leader and member of WIN in North America.

“Wendy Jones is an exemplary representative of Severn School,” said Headmaster Doug Lagarde. “She is an accomplished professional, a community leader, and mentor.”

Wendy entered Severn School in the eighth grade, and spent most of her childhood in Severna Park. Regarded warmly by faculty and students alike, Wendy was known to be high spirited, bright, and an exceptional athlete.

Jones holds a bachelor of science degree in economics from the University of Connecticut and was a member of the 1985 NCAA Division 1 National Championship field hockey team. She also earned an MBA from Loyola College.

SEVERN NEWS

Steel Drums Big Hit at the Lower School Elizabeth Wegner Musician-inResidence Program brings Rockcreek Steel Drums Parents were treated to rousing steel drum performances on February 19 at the Lower School – the culmination of the Elizabeth Wegner Musician-in-Residence program.

At the assembly, students in grades K-5 performed what they learned in their workshops with Kevin Martin of Rockcreek Steel Drums.

Not to be outdone, the faculty got into the spirit and picked up the mallets to perform "Higher and Higher" by Jackie Wilson.

This Musician-in-Residence program continues Mrs. Elizabeth Wegner's legacy of instilling a joy for music by providing unique musical opportunities for the Lower School students of Severn School. Beth Wegner taught music for 14 years before her passing in 2014.

She was always intent on providing a setting in which children are allowed to discover their own talent in the making of music, the composing of it even at an early age, and the performance of it.

During this residency, students participated in small group steel drum workshops with Kevin, and students in preschool through first grade participated in steel drum activities with Mrs. Gaylord in their music classes.

The assembly concluded with the fitting Bob Marley hit, "Three Little Birds," performed by the fifth graders. "Don't worry about a thing, 'Cause every little thing gonna be all right."

See more photos on page 19.

Kevin Martin worked with Lower School students divided by grade level in the Louise Sivy Theatre.

Severn Unites with Oyster Recovery Partnership It's a natural fit considering our location on the Severn River and our commitment to teach students about being responsible stewards of the environment.

Jamie Benoit (Isabelle '21 & Iris '24) facilitated the initial introduction last year and ideas began churning about how Severn and the Oyster Recovery Partnership (ORP) — Maryland’s leading nonprofit restoring oysters in the Bay — can work together.

"The ORP impressed me as an environmental organization that was making a real difference on the health of the Chesapeake Bay," reflected Jamie. "The ORP is consistently awarded the Seal of Excellence for its financial management and, in my view, is worthy of Severn School's support.

[I hope] Severn can capitalize on its waterfront location by offering unique educational opportunities to students through the ORP." Field trips to the Horn Point Lab Oyster Hatchery in Cambridge, MD, are being planned – a direct result of the presentations made to faculty and students before Spring Break by Bryan Gomes, an ORP representative. "I grew up in Severna Park and always admired the quality of education offered at Severn," said Gomes.

"From the moment I got involved in this project I realized that not only will this be a dynamic and insightful experience for students, but that the Severn School and ORP will have a great partnership moving forward.”

Other possible collaborations with ORP include art projects to raise awareness, oyster shell recovery initiatives, and service learning programs.

Freshman Alex Rozner spent his first week of Spring Break at ORP collecting oyster shells from area restaurants, cataloging the shells, and

delivering the shells to the recycling center on the Eastern Shore. Natural oyster shells are the best material on which to raise new oysters and restore oyster reefs. For generations used oyster shells were used to build roads, driveways and housing construction. More recently the shell has ended up in landfills. Today, shells are an extremely limited natural resource and a valuable one for improving waterways.

Alex also testified before the Maryland State General Assembly in support of House Bill 815 for oyster shell recycling income tax credit.

SPRING 2015

7

SEVERN NEWS

Destination Imagination

T

hree Lower School teams of energetic, creative and critical thinking fourth and fifth graders recently demonstrated their team talents at Destination Imagination's regional competition in Towson, Md. Competing in three separate challenges, Team S.W.A.G. (Severn Winners are Golden), the Severn Magnificent Maroonicorns, and

the Severn Maroon Squad, showcased their creativity and collaboration skills in the Creature Feature technical challenge, Feary Tales fine arts challenge, and Service Learning brand aid challenge respectively. All three teams rose to their challenges successfully, with the Magnificent Maroonicorns and Maroon Squad moving on to the state competition this April.

Destination Imagination (DI) is a global program for

ing together to solve problems. It isn't always easy, but

third grade through college-age students that encour-

our participants are learning how to consider many

ages teams of learners to have fun, take risks, and

different perspectives in creative problem solving. The

frame challenges that incorporate science, technology,

whole program is about the process, not necessarily the

engineering, math, art, and service learning. This year

product.”

marks the second year that Severn's Lower School

To solve their team challenge, the Severn S.W.A.G.

competed.

team chose to create “Swagbot,” a technical crea-

Over 200,000 students compete in the program

ture in an underwater world who had to demonstrate

each year, and focus on two components — a central

mechanical hands-free actions such as communicating,

challenge and an instant challenge. The central chal-

consuming, and moving, in a world where the story is

lenge asks teams to use art, technology, performance,

set. Led by kindergarten teacher Vanessa Smith and

and real-world relevance to solve one of five different

supported by parent Debra Smith (no relation), team

team challenges. The second component is the instant

members included Maggie Cahouet '23, Davis Cawlfield

challenge, where team members are asked to solve a

'23, Sage Christiansen '23, Patrick Clifford '23, Beckett

challenge on the spot without any preparation.

Harriman '23, and Konner Smith '23. “I could not be

Catie Thorne '22 works on her team's service learning project

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“DI teaches the creative

more proud of these kids and the hard work they put

process and lets partici-

into creating their creature, sets, costumes and pre-

pants experience it from

sentations,” commented Vanessa Smith. “To see them

imagination to innova-

evolve into true team players who respect each other's

tion,” explains Crystal

ideas, learn about compromising, and being leaders

Erskine, pre-kindergarten

is a wonderful benefit of this program.” Team member

teacher, who first

Maggie agrees. “It was sometimes hard to go along with

introduced the program

some of the ideas when you maybe don't agree, but we

to the school last year

all got a chance to share our opinions and it made me

and managed the fine

learn a lot about how to work together better.”

arts challenge team.

Charged with creating and presenting a fairy tale

“Collaboration is vital to

about a character who faces and deals with a phobia,

the DI process — the kids

the Magnificent Maroonicorns team, made up of Belle

learn a lot about work-

Clement '22, Anna Erskine '23, Genesis Grudger '23,

SEVERN NEWS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22 www.destinationimagination.org

Gavin Schut '22, and Jourdon Willett '23, creatively produced and performed a tale about an animal that fears songs about other animals. “It can be difficult for team managers to step back and let the kids have 100% ownership of their challenges, because you watch them make mistakes. You have to let them get through it on their own to get the most out of the program,” adds Erskine. “The result is so worthwhile though — the kids absolutely own their solutions.”

According to team member Belle, “I loved working

Celebrate Earth Day on April 22 by gathering your clan and participating in the Family Maker Challenge!

together as a team to come up with exciting, clever and creative solutions to our challenges. It made me realize how you can make something that is ordinary become extraordinary.”

Service learning members of the Severn Maroon Squad, led by second grade teacher Kristin Long and supported by parent Mallory Cawlfield, identified,

Embrace the Maker Movement by creating something new out of recyclable items. Think of the fun you and your crew will have together as you construct an Earth Day-themed project.

designed, and carried out a project that addressed the

Here are just a few examples of

community need of saving the Chesapeake Bay through

what you could build!

the reintroduction of oysters into the region. Maroon Squad members included Tom de los Reyes '23, Morgan Dettor '23, Aiden Gilroy '23, Blake Hoyt '23, Catie Thorne '22, and Robert White '22. “I was impressed with how serious the team took this process

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT STUFFED ANIMAL SHELTER BIRD FEEDER EARTH DAY MASCOT SCULPTURE

and the way they weren't willing to settle on a topic,”

INSULATED LUNCH BOX

commented Long. “They wanted to find an issue that

GARMENT OR COSTUME

they really cared about. I am so proud that the project

NEW TOY USING OLDER TOYS

came together. The amount of work these kids did in a short time is remarkable.”

AND ITEMS OR YOUR OWN CREATION!

“I think the greatest achievement is the way these kids developed their creativity,” added Long. “They were given a very broad checklist of requirements, and beyond that, the sky was the limit. The project was all theirs. My hope is that the kids enjoyed themselves and are proud of their project — I am!”

“The best part of this project was that we started out with one idea and it took off from there into a whole bigger and better direction,” said Aiden. “It turned out better than what we started out thinking it would be and we are doing something great for our community.”

Send photos of your creations to info@severnschool.com or join us for Family Maker Night Chesapeake Campus Wednesday, April 22 Come see all the family creations on display and have more fun creating Marble Runs, Flying Sculptures, and LED Sculptures.

The state competition is set for April 18, 2015 at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

SPRING 2015

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STUDENT PROFILE

RENAISSANCE MAN PART OF INAUGURAL ONLINE LEARNING PROJECT When you're talking with Zak Rosen '16 sometimes it's hard to reconcile the on-stage personas he plays with the intellectual he is in real life. It doesn't help that Zak isn't the stereotypical brainiac. He's always in the thick of things and, as his faculty advisor puts it, “He's a Renaissance man who does it all.”

Between productions staged by the Water Street Players — he recently acted five different parts in the musical Big Fish — Zak, along with three other Severn students, is a member of the inaugural flight of students enrolled in the Malone Schools Online Network (MSON). Zak is taking Critical Reading and Argumentation, a philosophy course taught by Dr. Morgan Wallhagen, who is based in Stanford, Calif. Junior Cece Lasley is enrolled in Ancient Greek, and seniors Summer Tysor and Marcel Isper took a fall semester course in Organic Chemistry.

This year, Severn proudly joined MSON, a consortium of 15 schools that have received funding from the Malone Family Foundation in recognition of their interest in and success with educating gifted and talented students. Severn recognizes that online education is becoming an integral part of learning in schools and colleges throughout the world.

In 2012, Severn was selected as a Malone Family Foundation School, making it one of only 50 schools in the country and one of only two schools in Maryland to receive this distinction.

Founded by John Malone of Colorado in 2000, the Malone Family Foundation has established scholarships for students in grades 7-12 who are in the top of their class and have the desire and drive to educate themselves to the very best of their ability, but whose families cannot afford the tuition and expenses required by leading independent schools. The Foundation has sought out excellent partners: independent secondary schools with an intense interest in educating the gifted and talented.

MSON provides upper-level students at registered Malone Schools with a variety of superior online courses offered in an online classroom that would enhance each member school’s existing curriculum.

Zak Rosen '16, sporting the tee he tie-dyed to raise awareness of United Spectrum, Severn's Gay-Straight Alliance.

Each course takes a blended approach, combining synchronous instruction (real-time video conferencing seminars) with asynchronous instruction (recorded lectures and exercises students complete outside of the class).

These courses are taught by teachers from among the schools in the Network. These teaching professionals are experts in their fields, have experience with independent school education, and share a commitment to excellence, small class sizes, and personal relationships. Course offerings target the most talented high school students at member schools. These students demonstrate sufficient independence and commitment to succeed in a virtual discussion seminar setting.

“Because many of the MSON classes are born

out of individual teachers’ expertise and passion at our respective schools, the courses vary widely thus offering a myriad of interesting and enriching opportunities for our students,” commented Lise Charlier, Severn’s Director of Studies and Strategic Initiatives. “The MSON model combines all these wonderful courses under one umbrella, allowing incredible choice and access to these classes for our students.

Therefore our Severn students not only are in classes with like-minded students who are interested in, for example, rhetoric or ancient Greek or organic chemistry, but also they have the opportunity to explore new fields of study and communicate with students and teachers across the USA and the world.”

There are only three other students in Zak’s philosophy class. Through their virtual interaction, they debate, listen, and discuss. “My opinions have been changed, and I appreciate what that’s done for me.” Zak recognizes that the course has forced him to examine his own philosophical beliefs, and appreciates that his notions challenged. “I’ve been forced to really think about what I believe.”

He’s also come to appreciate learning for the sake of learning. “This Malone class motivated me to devote more time to learn new things – even if there’s no credit.” Zak is now auditing the Women in Studies course offered through Severn’s history department – just to learn something new and get more writing experience.

Zak also hopes to take more MSON courses next year, as a senior at Severn. Thinking ahead to college, Zak is planning trips to visit Harvard, Yale, Brown, Duke, and NYU, to name a few.

When asked what he’d like to study in college, he immediately rattled off international affairs and relations, poli sci, economics, “…and, oh, theater, creative writing, and biology, I love biology.” A Renaissance man, indeed.

FO R MO RE IN FO RMATIO N O N TH E MA LO NE SC H O O L S O NL INE NET WO RK VISIT: W W W. M A LO N E FA MILY FO UNDATIO N . O RG/MA LO NES C H O L A RS O NL INE

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Caleigh Plack '17

AJ Gersh '15

Michael Hesford '21

Lizzie Purnell '15 Zak Rosen '16

Chris Nguyen '15

Adam Needle '16 and AJ Gersh '15

Paige Sachwitz '15

Ella Green '17

Jack Maniscalco '15

"Big Fish" the musical, proudly presented by The Water Street Players Februar y 2015.

A belated bravo to the cast and crew of the fall dramatic production, "The Illusion." The production was the f i r s t b y n e w d i r e c t o r o f t h e Wa t e r S t r e e t P l a y e r s , M r . R o n G i d d i n g s ' 9 9 . R e a d m o r e a b o u t R o n o n p a g e 1 2 .

SPRING 2015

11

FACULTY PROFILE

ONCE AN ADMIRAL, ALWAYS AN ADMIRAL

Alumni Return to Teach and Serve Some say they bleed maroon. Others, that this place truly transformed them and will be forever in their heart. Either way, Severn School really is a big family – evidenced most recently by the fact that there are currently nine alums on staff, not to mention the four alumni board members: Tom Carter '85, Robyn Formica '87, Kent Holtgrewe '73, and Wilson Phipps '74.

Ron Giddings '99, Ian Duncan '09 and Becca Steinberg '08 came back to campus to teach just this school year. “It's been great seeing the school from both sides - as a student and a teacher,” commented Becca. “I see many similarities between my time as a student at Severn and my time teaching at the school now. The students are very hard-working and engaged, and the teachers continue to carry out Severn's mission.”

Ron, who teaches Upper School English and took over the drama program from long-time teacher Sharie Valerio, says, “It's been great to come back 'home' to Severn School. It was such a great part of my childhood, and I believe so strongly in the mission of life-long learning, that it was a natural fit. I think Severn is a place where teachers can make a noticeable impact on the lives of their students, and that's what I was looking for when deciding to change

schools."

Ian, a graduate of the University of Vermont, came back to teach math in the Middle School.

Leslie Turner Brannigan '97 started as a part-time teacher in 2008 and is now the Middle School history department chair. Two of her children Merrick '26 and Raina '29 attend the Lower School.

Cathy Hewitt Carper '81 and Molly Moore Green '83 are the reigning alum long-timers. Cathy, whose two children are alumni as well, has been teaching Middle School geography, dance, performing arts, and improv since 1986, while Molly came back to Severn in 1989, 26 years ago. Molly is the director of enrollment management and outreach. Her son Alec is a member of the Class of 2013 and daughter Ella is a junior.

“The school has physically changed so much that there are times when it is hard to believe that I graduated from Severn in 1981,” reflected Cathy. “But there are times when I walk to parts of the campus, like the old gym, and memories come flooding back to me.”

Along with Cathy, Julian Domenech '84 practically grew up on this campus. His father, Julian Domenech Sr., taught Spanish at Severn and then became assistant headmaster and logged a total of 27 years here

(1967-1994). Julian Jr. and his family returned to Severna Park in 2008 to assume the role of athletic director to the School. His son Zach is a member of the Class of 2014 and Kain is now in the 8th grade.

“It has been a tremendous experience following in my dad's footsteps working in the Severn community.

While the physical landscape has changed since I graduated, the internal workings of Severn haven't, which is what makes this a very special place. My family and I have developed numerous relationships over the past seven years which will last us a lifetime,” Julian shared.

Liz Mann Carlin '74, a member of Severn's business office, witnessed both her children graduate from Severn: Tim Staines in 1997 and Carrie Staines Tilley in 1999. Liz has worked at Severn for more than 13 years.

Tyler Larkin '03 returned to School 10 years after graduating. He took up the alumni relations director mantle and feels right at home. “I feel like I never left,” said Tyler. “I was always on campus before I came to work here, watching lacrosse or meeting up with Severn friends.” Tyler also coaches boys' lacrosse and cross country running.

You know what they say…once an Admiral, always an Admiral.

Top row (L-R): Liz Mann Carlin '74 with husband Brian; Julian Domenech '84 (left) with Severn teachers, Chris Kirchenheiter and Mike McCarthy; Tyler Larkin '03 coaching at a cross country meet. Bottom row (L-R): Cathy Hewitt Carper '81, assistant athletic director Cathy Officer, and retired Middle School teacher Phyllis Beardmore; James Maloney, Ian Duncan '09, Andi Whiteford, Leslie Turner Brannigan '97, and Diana Talbott; Ron Giddings '99 with students from the fall production of "The Illusion."

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OK, IT'S...ERIC HUTCHINSON Severn School welcomed singer songwriter Eric Hutchinson as this year's Dillon Moran Musician-in-Residence this past January. A Takoma Park native, Eric's first album, Sounds Like This, was in the top ten on the iTunes Store in 2007, debuting at #1 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart. After several months of writing and recording in Los Angeles, London, New York and Nashville in 2013, Eric spent most of 2014 on the road in the US and Europe promoting his new material, playing over 200 shows to over 100,000 fans all over the world. Eric spent a jam-packed day with Severn students, sharing wisdom from the music biz, critiquing vocal and instrumental student work, and naturally, performed for students throughout the day and rocked to a sold-out Price Auditorium in the evening.

We bet you will recognize one or more of Eric Hutchinson's top 5 songs currently on iTunes: 1. OK, It's Alright With Me 2. Rock & Roll 3. Watching You Watch Him 4. Tell the World 5. Breakdown More

SPRING 2015

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Q&A WITH MIDDLE SCHOOL FACULTY

ACTIVE LEARNING IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL "MURDER MYSTERY" MS. KATHLEEN DONOVAN AND MS. CARRIE BALL

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE UNIT? The Murder Mystery unit is focused on teaching students about primary and secondary research sources and scientific evidence - with a twist! The students become detectives and spend several weeks working to solve a fictional crime.

Ms. Carrie Ball instructs her 7th grade detectives on how to analyze synthetic blood samples.

HOW DID THE MYSTERY HELP STUDENTS LEARN THE MATERIAL? Who doesn't want to solve a mystery? There was a real strategy behind designing this lesson to make sure students learn the skills and material, while balancing the fun and creative format of the activity. We wanted to teach students the important skills of analyzing and drawing conclusions from sources and data, show them how to use research skills across all disciplines, and how to write historical and scientific papers.

We know that learning research and writing skills can be tedious so we thought the students would buy-in if they invested in solving the mystery, even if there is no right answer. We also thought by connecting their classroom experience with exciting real-world experiences they would stay engaged, so we brought in police detectives to share about their experiences.

WHY PLAN A COMPLEX UNIT? We are constantly trying to find new ways to engage and teach students important skills

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and content. In this unit, we are connecting the new skills and content across different subject areas, and show students that these skills matter in all subjects. For example, great writing is crucial in the field of science.

Also, adolescents learn through memorable experiences, so we are always asking, “how can this lesson be more memorable?”

Instead of reading out of a book, they are working hands-on and the content "comes alive." By making evidence boards, taking fingerprints, and analyzing synthetic blood samples, students really connect with the material. Those times when students are excited and have that “aha” moment, that's what makes all of the extra planning worthwhile.

WHAT WAS YOUR PLANNING PROCESS? It all starts with an idea! Years ago there was a Middle School that planned a grade level murder mystery unit and incorporated every teacher and subject. We thought it was a great idea and so our departments decided to team up. Of course, it takes time to develop an elaborate lesson plan like this, so we were fortunate to use our time in the Middle School professional development afternoons and the Summer Institute Programs last year. Additionally, we bounced ideas off of our colleagues to get other ideas and suggestions. We wanted to make sure we kept our ultimate goals in sight, so when planning the unit we continuously adjusted it to keep the balance between the academic skills and engaging activities. While this was our first year completing the unit, we thought it was well received and plan to use feedback from students to improve upon it for next year.

"ENVIRONMENTAL ART" Ms. JoAnna Josey and Ms. Whitney Etchison

WERE THERE ANY PARAMETERS?

Last summer we were fortunate to have been awarded the Stephens Millard ’51 Faculty Travel Grant, which we used to travel to San Diego up to Seattle, and through the desert.

We also visited Sequoia National Park, Monterey, Redwood National Park, and Crater Lake on the way. When we were visiting the Monterey Aquarium we saw these beautiful social statement art pieces that were made from garbage – and we thought, what a great way to combine ecology and art...an idea was born! The recycled art project would be the vessel for students to create awareness of social issues.

In order to spark their creative juices, we showed the students a slide show of ways people make strong statements through imagery, played them songs, and read them poems. We wanted each of them to find an issue they could relate to, using any kind of art form — writing, drawing, building, singing, or really anything — and create something that speaks for itself. Once they completed the project they wrote an artist statement piece to explain it, but the true goal was for a passerby to understand the purpose just by looking at it, with no explanation needed.

WHAT WERE YOUR ULTIMATE GOALS?

WHAT WAS YOUR PLANNING PROCESS?

We wanted students to realize they don’t need to be an adult to make a difference.

There are many young activists their age, working towards brining awareness to various social issues. Their voice and opinions matter and play a role in what our future looks like. By cross collaborating between art and science, this unit encouraged students to use their artistic talents to demonstrate scientific and environmental concepts. It was refreshing to see students pick a subject and become passionate about it. They really invested time into researching and understanding the social issues they presented.

There was definitely extra time spent in developing a presentation plan that would get students to buy-in and become thoughtfully engaged. In this case, it really paid off because they loved the unit and stayed focused for the entire length of the project. Anything that gets a student that focused is worth the extra time and effort.

We also loved that it forced them to rethink and challenge the idea that they “aren’t artistic.” Whether or not they considered themselves artistic at the beginning of the unit, they learned that expressing their voice with art, in any form, can and will make a real impact.

HOW DID THIS UNIT COME TO FRUITION?

"SAVE IT-DON'T TRASH IT" PAPER MACHE BY MADELINE IAZZETTA '19

In her artist statement, Madeline explains, "Protecting the environment is important to me and I wanted to show that throwing stuff away instead of recycling it, lets bad chemicals go into the water and slowly kills the Earth. I hope that observers will think about putting things they would normally throw away, into a recycling bin."

SPRING 2015

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THROUGH OUR LENS Our photographs tell the Severn story in a way that no words ever could. That’s why you can always expect to find someone donned with a camera at school events, athletic games, musicals, awards ceremonies, alumni gatherings, and more. Here we show you all the wonderful things happening every day at Severn.

The Lower School string ensemble at the Instrumental Music Concert, December 17.

(L-R): Paige Weinberg '24, Charlie Friedrich '24, and Scarlett Harris '24 with director Ginger Hildebrand.

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UPPER SCHOOL WINTER ATHLETICS ASSEMBLY

Congratulations Severn athletes!

THROUGH OUR LENS

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1. Amy and Charlie Olmert '17 and Michelle and Max Bailey '15 with Larry Snyder; 2. Stephen Duncan '16; 3. Madeleine '15 with parents Austin and RenĂŠe Farnham; 4. Athletic Director Julian Domenech '84; 5. Caroline Steele '15; 6. Priya Lakhanpal '17, Camryn Rosen '17, and Ashley Owens '17; 7. Barbie and Jack Maniscalco '15

SPRING 2015

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THROUGH OUR LENS

DODGEBALL MADNESS

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1. (L-R) Mrs. Leslie Turner Brannigan '97 and son Merrick '26, Emma Agro '20, Melissa Wong '20, Kennedy Smith '19, Elsa Kraft '20, Lauren Gibbons-Neff '19, Hailey Schendel '19, Sofi Sowden '20, Mallory Gersh '19, Grant Kunowsky '19, Grace Collins '19, Noah Lastner '19, Hunter Hayes '19, Jon Huber '19, DaVaughn Joyner '20; 2. Broc Bozeman '19; 3. Loukas Sotiropolus-Lawerence '19, Mike D’Amore '19, Tyler Davis '20, Andy Thompson '20, Maddie Hawkins '20, Layne Bullock '20, Mr. Eric Cole, Kate Kistler '20, Ashley Urban '20, Brooke Arnold '20, Emilia Stirling '19, Meghan Behr '19; 4. Owen Bradford '20, Jake Leroux '20, Danica Williams '20, James Doss '20, David Kirk '20, Brett Sweeney '19, Henry Stoer '20, Ryan Wahba '20, Cameron Mang '20, and Mr. George Yost; 5. (front row) Jordan Bruce '20, Will Klepper '20, Nicky Bradford '20, Ben Berlin '20, Tate Taczak '19, Kendall Jacobsen '19, Haley Foster '19, Mariah Saunders '19, and Ms. Kathleen Donovan (back row) Aidan Carter '20, Mr. Patrick Morrison, Kevin Haefner '19, Quinn Roes '19; 6. Elsa Kraft '20, Emma Agro '20, and Melissa Wong '20

The annual Middle School dodgeball showdown!

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ROCKCREEK STEEL DRUMS

Elizabeth Wegner Musician-in-Residence Program

THROUGH OUR LENS

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1. Andy Blanck '27, Aiden Anderson '27, and Lila Knoepfle '27; 2.Vanesa Flood '28; 3. Alex Wahba'24; 4. Lauren Pikus and Sydney Jennings practice with the 5th grade class; 5. The inside of the steel drum - the note pattern is then marked onto the surface, and the notes of different sizes are shaped and molded into the surface; 6. Kevin Martin of Rockcreek Steel Drums rehearses with the 3rd grade class; 7. Anna Erskine '23 and Cameron Christie '23 learn the art of playing the steel drums.

SPRING 2015

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SEVERN ATHLETICS

SEVERN ATHLETICS with a 4-4 overall record, and impressive wins against AACS, Pallotti, St. Paul's, and The team had a difficult rebuilding season, Beth T'Filoh. Even though the team only but focused on daily improvement and had ten perseverance. The players improved every swimmers, we earned third place out of day and by the end of the season were the eight teams in the B conference. Imagine playing great basketball against teams in what we could do with more swimmers! the conference. The hope and expectations Record: 4-4 are very high for next year and for years Coaches: Eileen Palmer and Erin Domenech to come.

Assistant Coach: Stacey Kirchenheiter Record: 5-16 VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL

Coach: V.J. Keith Assistant Coaches: Pat Kostkowski and Vaughn Meyers

VARSITY GIRLS SWIMMING

The team had another fantastic season. After winning back to back championships in the VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL B conference, we weathered the storm of the A conference, and ended up with an overall This season was a work in progress record of 2-6. At times, we felt a little out of after graduating five seniors from the our element, particularly swimming against previous year's championship team. powerhouses McDonogh and Notre Dame We struggled through mononucleosis, Prep, but we learned a lot about flu, several sprained ankles and a competition. In all our meets, our top meniscus tear. We were able to put swimmers were competitive with the top together an eight game winning streak swimmers of the other teams. Madeleine in the latter half of the season and lost in Farnham '15, Allison Voorhees '16, Sarah the semi-finals of the IAAM to the evenCumm '17 and Katie Dubinski '18 made tual champions. The team also won the Severn proud with their many first places Jodi Hyde Queen Anne County High throughout the dual meet season. The team School Holiday Tournament. Led by first also participated in the Polar Bear Plunge team All-County and IAAM and raised almost $1,500 for Special All Star Maddie McDaniel '16 and Olympics Maryland. co-captains Caroline Steele '15, and Record: 2-6 Rachel Crawford '15 the team finished Coaches: Eileen Palmer and Erin Domenech with a 16-9 record. Junior Maya Assistant Coach: Stacey Kirchenheiter Harris and freshman Jorryn Avery completed the starting line-up. They VARSITY WRESTLING were supported by Devin Monroe '16 and Audrey CortĂŠs '16, Christen The 2014-2015 season was strong for an Morrell '17 and Tess Bradshaw '17. extremely young team. Freshmen stepped up Record: 16-9 to fill voids in the line up and really helped Coach: Chuck Miller the team be successful. We finished 11-6 on Assistant Coaches: Rob Brown and the year with a second place finish in the Lisa Smith MIAA B conference duals as well as a runner-

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The team had an incredibly successful season, particularly considering a roster of only 10 swimmers. This year's team, led by captains Jack Maniscalco '15 and Zander Feidelberg '15, finished the season

up finish at the MIS tournament. The team looks forward to having a very talented line up next season.

Record: 11-5 Coach: Doug West Assistant Coaches: Josh Klein and Jason West

SEVERN ATHLETICS

ADMIRALS PLAYING A SPRING COLLEGE SPORT IN 2015 BASEBALL

TRACK

Christian Marciano '14 Pfeiffer University

Harmony Roche '12

Sam Wachs '11

Dickinson College

Maddy Berg '11

Harvard

GOLF Sarah Brown '11

LACROSSE Nate Babcock '11

CREW

Mercer University

SAILING

UMBC

St. Mary's College of MD

Cole Bailey '11

Tufts University

Brett Bedard '13

University of North Carolina

Nate Boldyga '14

Oberlin College

Chase Brown '12

University of Michigan

Meredith Brown '14

Harvard University Furman University

Terry Duncan '11

Middlebury College

Mark Cohen '12

Tim Harding '11

Brown University

Graham Davis '14 MIT

Scott Houck '11

Dartmouth College

Zac Davliakos '14

Patrick Floyd '13

Dartmouth College

Andrew DeStefano '14 Skidmore College

Katlyn Flynn '11

Bates College

Bobby DeStefano '12

Washington and Lee

Grace Lucas '14

Stanford University

Allie Foard '12

High Point University

Evan Morgan '14

Fordam University

Meg Gesner '13

St. Mary's College of MD

Mike Saldi '11

Boston University

Hunter Gray '13

Trinity College

Maeve White '13

Stanford University

Hannah Hook '11

University of Denver

Lydia Whiteford '11

Brown University

David Jones '13

United States Naval Academy

Kate Wysocki '11

Boston College

Alexa Kunowsky '12

Vanderbilt University

Loyola University Maryland

Kasie Lilly '14

Furman University

Ryan Lamon '13

Mount St. Mary's

Christian Wheeler '13

Hendrix College

Nick Manis '12

Univ of MD, College Park

Anne McGarvey '13

Hamilton College

Hunter Morris '12

Shepherd University

Devlin Nelligan '13

Williams College

Rachael Nock '11

University of New Hampshire

Kevin O'Malley '13

St. Mary's College of MD

Matt Sindler '14

Colby College

Rachel Steinberg '13

University of Oregon

Kelly Reese '13

University of Virginia

Emily Roth '12

Towson University

Cami Whiteford '13

Loyola University

Beth Willertz '12

University of Florida

Blake Wood '12

Tufts University

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2015 WINTER SEASON MVP AND PLAYERS AWARD RECIPIENTS BOYS BASKETBALL:

David Snyder Players Award Jim Doyle MVP Coaches Award

Max Bailey '15 LJ Owens '18

GIRLS BASKETBALL:

Players Award Jim Doyle MVP Coaches Award

Caroline Steele '15 Maddie McDaniel '16

BOYS SWIMMING:

Daniel B. Robinson Players Award Jack Maniscalco '15 Thomas P. “Doc” Heslin MVP Award Stefan Bay '16 GIRLS SWIMMING:

Daniel B. Robinson Players Award Madeleine Farnham '15 Thomas P. “Doc” Heslin MVP Award Allison Voorhees '16 WRESTLING:

Players Award Coaches MVP Award

Stephen Duncan '16 Michael Doetsch '16

SPRING 2015

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ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI

WEEKEND CELEBRATING THE PAST. CONSTRUCTING THE FUTURE.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FRIDAY, MAY 15 1:30 pm: Athletic Hall of Fame Assembly Price Auditorium Please join us in welcoming these outstanding athletes into Severn's Athletic Hall of Fame.

2015 Recipients: Julie Tice '96, Joseph Salsich '00 and Michael Phipps '03

SATURDAY, MAY 16 11:00 am: Alumni Lax Game Lynch Field Alumni will take on the Varsity Admirals! Don the maroon and white and relive the days of old.

Everyone is welcome to play.

11:30 am to 3:00 pm: Family Picnic Joe's Field near the Athletic Center Live music. Free flowing beverages and picnic fare along with a moon bounce, clown and fun activities for kids of all ages. Bring your parents! Bring the small fry!

It’s all about family!

Pre-registration by Sunday, May 10th: $17 adults, $7 children.

Door: $20 adults, $10 children; Kids under 6 Free.

Pre-register online by Sunday, May 10 at www.severnschool.com 22

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2015

7:00 pm to 10:00 pm: Reunion Class Dinner The Boone House Lawn Come for a delicious Maryland inspired repast, open bar and live music. You won’t believe how beautifully we will transform the Boone House lawn for this spectacular party. We’ll have specially decorated areas for each reunion class. All classes are welcome and encouraged to attend. Bring photos and stories to share.

Pre-registration by Sunday, May 10th: $30 adults, Young Alumni (2005-2014) $20 Door: $35 adults, Young Alumni (2005-2014) $25 *Adults Only

MILESTONE REUNION YEAR If you graduated in a year ending with a 5 or 0, make plans now to return to Severn to celebrate your milestone reunion at Alumni Weekend 2015!

You won’t want to miss this party!

GIVE A CLASS GIFT "Come back, Give back!" Please use the enclosed gift envelope to make your class gift today!

TOURS OF TEEL Plan to take a spin through the under-construction Teel Academic Center when you’re on campus!

Times and details announced soon.

ALUMNI NEWS

NI A NNA POL I S A LUM

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The annual Annapolis Alumni Networking happy hour, sponsored by the Alumni Council was a great success. Over 35 Severn alums gathered at Blackwall Hitch in Annapolis to network with local alumni and business professionals. This event is always a great opportunity to meet other alums living and working in the Annapolis area in order to network professionally and to keep in touch with old friends. Stay tuned for similar events to be held in DC and Baltimore.

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5 1. Drew Burns '88, Mary Salsich, Robyn Formica '87 2. Sean Murphy '02 and Ryan Brassel '04 3. Craig Decker '83, Sarah Wynn '93, Ben Harries '93, and Randy Morse '92 4. Jamal Jones '05 and Darren Smith '05 5. Mack Gilmor '06 and Becky Price Gilmor '06 6. Class of 2003 classmates, Tyler Larkin, Darshan Kharod, Kirby Douglas McAdoo, Amanda Jones Barron, and Will Brogan

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SPRING 2015

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IN MEMORIAM

IN MEMORIAM

alumni 1936 Louis Tracy Girdler Jr. December 16, 2014 (see obituary on page 25) 1939 Jermain Irish July 22, 2014 (see obituary on page 25)

1964 Anthony "Tony" Stewart November 11, 2014 (see obituary on page 27) 1971 Leroy Sparks November 4, 2014 (see obituary on page 28) 1983 Cynthia "Thia" Bohrer Ashonoah

1940 John Kidd, USN (Ret) August 28, 2013 (see obituary on page 25)

friends & family

1942 Howard Bealmear Jr. December 19, 2014 (see obituary on page 25)

Norman H. Finkle Grandfather of Ham Tyler '81, Hamilton Tyler '14, and Hunter Tyler '16

Beatrice Allen Grandmother of Ian Duncan '09, Terry Duncan '11, and Stephen Duncan '16

1946 John Burdan Jr. July 16, 2014

Katherine Guthorn Grandmother of Eliza Guthorn '08, Adam Guthorn '02, Ali Guthorn '05, Lily Guthorn '10, Jayne Guthorn '14, and May Guthorn '17

1947 David Bergesen September 7, 2014

Walter Jacobs Husband of former Severn teacher Claudia McLaughlin and Father of Jean Jacobs Cronan '81

Paul Gallagher, USN November 8, 2014 (see obituary on page 25) Bromfield Nichol Jr. November 8, 2014 (see obituary on page 25) 1948 Charles Walsh January 2, 2015 (see obituary on page 26) 1952 James "Jim" Dougall Jr. August 8, 2014 (see obituary on page 26) 1953 Franklin "Frank" Meredith October 25, 2014 (see obituary on page 26) Paul Gallagher, USN November 8, 2014 1963 Donald "Don" Link September 8, 2014 (see obituary on page 27)

Kay Elizabeth McSteen Jones Mother of Wendy Jones '83 Eleanor Bunny Knipp Mother of Robin Knipp '75, Carter Knipp '77, Howdy Knipp '74, and Peter Knipp '80 Gertrude Lenzer Grandmother of Valarie Lenzer '15 Daisy Lewis Grandmother of Trayshelle Cherry '15 and Travis Cherry '13 Samuel Meyer Father of Alan Meyer '84 William Porter Father of Cindy Porter Schafer '80 and Sonny Porter'78, Grandfather of Zach Schafer '07 Ann Mecleary Pratt Wife of Richard R. Pratt '32 +, Mother of Rocky Pratt '59 and John Pratt '54, Sister of Elmer Mecleary '30 +, Sister-in-law of William Pratt '29 +, Aunt of Read Mecleary '60 Julian Savage Grandfather of Julie Parekh '04 Alessandro Senserini Father of Stefano Senserini 2028 Rosa Whipple Former Severn faculty member M. Chris Wood Father of Caitlin Wood '07 Frances Irene Arndt Wooten and Marvin Rhem Wooten Grandparents of Sam Wooten '09

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ALUMNI WEEKEND • MAY 15 & 16, 2015

CLASS NOTES

1936

I N M E M O R I A M Louis Tracy Girdler Jr.

passed away on December 16, 2014, at a skilled nursing facility in Mobile, Ala. He was 96 years old. Tract was born Louis Tracy Girdler Jr. in Muskegon, Michigan on June 12, 1918. He married the late Ethel Petersen Girdler on August 9, 1940. Tracy attended Muskegon High School, Severn School, Lehigh University, and the U.S. Naval Academy. Near the end of WWII, he commanded a sea-going rescue tug and an oil tanker in the Atlantic theater. After the war, Tracy worked his way up the ranks of the Standard Automotive Parts Company of Muskegon, which was created in 1907 by Edwin Carter.

Tracy would eventually become part owner of the company and served as president of Standard Automotive. In addition to his long career at Standard Automotive, Tracy Girdler had many avocations. He was an accomplished sailor, private aircraft pilot, horseman, bridge player, golfer, and the author of two books An Antebellum Life at Sea and Cape Horn Captain.

1939

I N M E M O R I A M Jermain Savage Irish, of

Warrenton, Va. died on July 22, 2014 at Amerisist Assisted Living. He was born on April 5, 1920 in Washington, DC to the late James M. and Frederica S. Irish. Jermain was career Navy followed by a career as a stockbroker for many years and a member of St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic Church.

1940

I N M E M O R I A M John Dobson Kidd, 90, of

Woodstock, Ga. passed away on August 28, 2013. Born to Elbert S. Kidd and Ethel Dobson Kidd, Captain Kidd was raised in Boston and graduated with the Class of 1945 from the U.S. Naval Academy. Following his class's early graduation in 1944, he served the last year of WWII in the Pacific aboard the heavy cruiser, USS Pittsburgh. Captain Kidd went on to flight school and spent many exciting years as a carrier jet pilot, seeing duty as a Squadron Commander in the Mediteranean during the Cold War. After service with

John Dobson Kidd '40; Howard Reamy Bealmear Jr. '42; Bromfield "Brom" Bradford Nichol '47 senior class photo

the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Captain Kidd retired in 1974 as the director of the office of Naval Research in Boston. His retirement years were spent traveling and enjoying his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. (see photo above)

1942

I N M E M O R I A M Howard Reamy Bealmear Jr.,

90, of Greenwood, S.C., husband of Virginia Middleton Bealmear, died Friday, December 19, 2014 at his residence. Mr. Bealmear was a graduate of the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY. Howard and Virginia were happily married for 64 years. Their life was filled with extensive interests, antiques, railroad collectibles and many other treasurers. (see photo above)

1943

Mase Wells and wife, Les, moved into Oak Hammock, a lovely retirement community at the University of Florida located in Gainesville, Fla.

1947

I N M E M O R I A M Paul A. Gallagher, age 85

passed away peacefully in Albuquerque, N.M. on November 8, 2014. He was born in Malden, Massachusetts, the son of Dr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Gallagher. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1951 as an Ensign USN. While on Washington shore duty at the developing POLARIS missile system he met and married his wife, Leigh in May 1957. Leigh preceded him in death in 1998. Sea service was served in ships

from amphibious to large and small combatants and auxiliary research and development types.

In July 1967 he was transferred to the Sandia Base Field Command Stockpile Reliability and Quality Assurance section. He began a second career in real estate in 1971 and was a GRI and charter member of the New Mexico Chapter of Certified Residential Specialist (CRS). He went on to become a residential appraiser and fully retired in 2004.

I N M E M O R I A M Bromfield "Brom" Bradford

Nichol, 85, passed away in his sleep November 8, 2014. Born in Annapolis, the only child of Bromfield Bradford Nichol (later Rear Admiral, USN) and Catherine Lee Howard, he spent his childhood traveling as his father's duty stations changed. When he was 12 he and his mother were living outside Pearl Harbor, as his father was ADM Halsey's aide at the time. The family joke was that his mother burned up the transmission of their English Ford racing up the mountainside in second gear trying to escape the Japanese bombs on December 7, 1941. In the summer of 1950 while attending ROTC camp at Ft. Knox Brom met Nancy Hope Boone, who later became his beloved wife. In the fall of 1952, Brom received orders to Korea where he served as a tank platoon leader with Co.A, 140th Tank Battalion, 40th Infantry Division under then Capt. George S. Patton III. He served his country with great distinction, being awarded The Distinguished Service Cross and Bronze Star for bravery while fighting in Korea.

A graduate in civil engineering from Virginia Military Institute, Brom's career started with a variety of governmental jobs, such as mosquito control engineer for the Florida State Board of Health; Bay and Escambia Counties engineer; and natural gas distribution engineer for the City of Pensacola. He was awarded the job of surveying the original 1,000 acres that would SPRING 2015

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ALUMNI WEEKEND • MAY 15 & 16, 2015

CLASS NOTES

Charles J. Walsh '48 senior class photo; James Chancellor Dougall '52; Franklin Duncan Meredith '53; Class of 1954 classmates at the Family Picnic during Centennial Weekend (L-R) Bob Hastie, Whit Swain, Larry Borries, Toni Schmidt, Brent Taylor, Jack Kelly and Bruce Hawtin.

become the University of West Florida. In turn, this work led to his becoming the first physical plant director for UWF. Eventually, the time came for Brom to take Nichol Engineering Associates full time. His ensuing 20 year practice produced a wide range of design projects, including airport taxiways, wastewater treatment plants, residential subdivisions, and even the infrastructure for an Arnold Palmer golf course. (see photo on page 25)

1948

I N M E M O R I A M Charles J. Walsh of Harvard,

Ill., passed away on January 2 this year after a long illness. Charles was born to Elmer Michael Walsh, Sr. and Grace Farwell Walsh. In 1947 he came to Severn School to prepare for his appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. Upon graduation from Annapolis in 1952, with a degree in electrical engineering, Charles was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. Upon graduation, he married his childhood sweetheart, the late Mary Kleinman Walsh. They would go on to raise their eight children in Deerfield and Bannockburn, Ill. During the Korean War, Charles served as a nuclear weapons officer and bombardier aboard the Convair B-36 Peacemaker, the largest bomber aircraft in history. In 1962, he launched Nuclear Diodes, which became EDAX in 1972, a company that still exists and is the worldwide leader in energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, electron backscatter diffraction, wavelength dispersive x-ray spectrometry and micro x-ray fluorescence systems. Charles led the development of the world's first x-ray capability for electron microscopes, and received the Presidential "E" from the U.S. Commerce Department for excellence in commerce. Charles sold

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THE BRIDGE

EDAX to Philips of Eindhoven, Netherlands and began another career in the boating industry of South Florida. The company he initially founded designed and built the fly-bridge vessel that would eventually become the world-renowned Blackfin 32' sport fisherman. In 1979, he started Walsh Yachts, Inc. in Ft. Lauderdale, where he and his current wife, Gail Johnson Walsh, sold yachts for over 20 years. During that time, he wrote and published the Yacht Brokerage Bible, the industry's first "how-to" book. It was so highly regarded that the State of Florida used it as an educational resource for income tax training. In 2003, he and his wife traded the boats and beaches of South Florida for the cows and corn of the Midwest, returning to their roots in Illinois. While he had many life adventures, perhaps those pursuits for which he will most be remembered were aviation, fishing and woodworking. (see photo above)

1952

I N M E M O R I A M James Chancellor Dougall

Jr. passed away in Goodyear, Ariz. on August 8 last year, three months shy of his 80th birthday.

Jimmy was born in Libertyville, Ill. in 1934. He attended Colorado University in Boulder,where he met his wife, Janet McFadden Dougall and settled in Libertyville. After a successful and satisfying career working from the floor of the Midwest Stock Exchange in Chicago, Jimmy retired from Chancellor Dougall & Company and split his retirement years between Green Lake, Wisconsin and Goodyear. An avid golfer, sports fan and gentle soul, Jimmy loved nothing more than good company, spirited conversation and a great meal. (see photo above)

1953

I N M E M O R I A M Franklin Duncan Meredith,

formerly of Annapolis, died at his home in Loganville, Ga., on October 25, 2014, after a brief illness. He graduated from Severn School and attended the University of Maryland. As a young man he was most interested in cars, guns, and airplanes, and succeeded in enjoying these activities throughout his life. In 1955 he entered the US Air Force and was commissioned Second Lieutenant in 1957. He served as a pilot in Korea in 1957 and 1958. In 1960 he married the late Mary Louise Kimble of WilkesBarre, Penn. He was then stationed at Charleston AFB in South Carolina, and then served in Vietnam in 1967. He earned numerous medals and awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism in aerial flight over Vietnam, while directing the rescue of troops who were pinned down and taking heavy casualties.

Captain Meredith retired from the Air Force in 1969 and moved to the Atlanta area where he worked as an air traffic controller at Atlanta's Hartsfield Airport. He joined the Air National Guard of Georgia in 1977 where he served 10 years. (see photo above)

1954

Bruce Hawtin writes, “The Class of '54 enjoyed our 60th reunion in the spring. Severn did a great job of providing a memorable weekend.

We were impressed with the campus, the staff, and the general attitude of the excellence that we prevailed. Keep up the good work. Educating our youth is the number one priority in the United States.” (see photo above)

ALUMNI WEEKEND • MAY 15 & 16, 2015

CLASS NOTES

1961

ing in Miami with Dictaphone Corporation and Real Estate Data, Inc. Tony then became a senior vice president of sales and marketing for McGraw Hill Publishers in NYC. He also worked for Moore Data Management in Minneapolis and First American Title in Jacksonville. Tony enjoyed the water and boating, owning both power and sailboats. He was a kind and generous, loved to laugh and had many friends across the country. (see photo below)

Lance Massey reports that his grandson, Jack Massey, entered the ROTC program at the University of Florida in August 2014. He is the fourth generation in the Massey family to enter the U.S. Navy. His great grandfather, LCDR Lance E. Massey '26, his grandfather, CDR Lance B. Massey '54 and his father Captain Lance E. Massey II USN all served in the Navy.

1956

George Benjamin shares, “I have entered the world of retirement. That is following my wood working hobby, saltwater fishing, helping my children and grandchildren with home and equestrian projects, as well as helping with the Save Sweet Briar College initiative, my granddaughter’s college.”

1959

John Leimkuhler writes, "The Class of 1959 decided to get together for pre-Christmas cocktails and dinner at Bridges Restaurant on Kent Island. Attended were Carol and Monty Baker, Pam and Tom Dawson, Julia and Lehr Jackson, Roberta and John Leimkuhler, Joyce and Norm Masterson, MaryAnn and Jack Norris, Kate and Bob Pearson, Joyce and Bill Roesler and Carol and Don Trumpy. After an enjoyable time, most finished up the evening at Dawson's nearby home for coffee, drinks and dessert. It was agreed by all that we will do if again next year and hopefully get more people to join us.

Speaking of get togethers, Monty Baker (capmity@aol.com) says if any non-local '59ers are planning on being in the area, give him some notice and he will organize a lunch with your local classmates."

Andy Mutch has moved to Maine full time and would love to hear from friends and classmates.

1963

I N M E M O R I A M Donald Jennings Link, age

68, of Laurel, Del., passed away at home on September 8, 2014. Donald was born in Baltimore, a son of the late Harry Link, Jr. and Edna V. Link. Donald retired as a heavy equipment salesperson with J.I. Case in Annapolis. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post #19 in Laurel. Don was a six year ‘day-hop’ from Rugby Hall. (see photo below)

1964

I N M E M O R I A M Tony Ross Stewart passed

away November 11, 2014. Tony grew up in Severna Park and played both football and lacrosse at Severn. He graduated from the University of Maryland in 1968, attending on a full athletic scholarship where he played lacrosse.

Tony was a member of Phi Kappa Sigma. Tony enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1969 and was selected to attend Officer's Candidate School in Quantico, Va. He deployed to Vietnam in 1969 as an infantry platoon commander with the 2nd Marine Division and was awarded the Purple Heart and the Combat Action Ribbon for his service. Returning to Camp Lejuene, N.C. in 1970, Tony served as an instructor at the infantry training school and managing officer at the Officer's Club. He was discharged as a Captain in 1977. Tony went on to build a successful career in sales and market-

1965 Reunion Year!

No doubt everyone has received letters from Severn reminding us that this is our 50th reunion year. The big weekend is Friday and Saturday, May 15 and 16. We are looking forward to a large class turnout with about 10 folks already indicating an intention to come.

If you haven’t been to Severn recently, I think you’ll be favorably impressed when you arrive.

The campus has been utterly transformed from the good old days. Severn now boasts a modern, networked campus with impressive facilities, dedicated to high quality academic programs for a broad spectrum of girls and boys from K-12. But, importantly, the school remains balanced, with quality athletics, diverse extracurricular activities, and a strong faculty.

You’ll be very proud to be associated with the school, which maintains its rich traditions amid the impressive trappings of a world-class private education. In addition, the school intends to formally recognize our class for a sizeable class donation we’re making and name the lounge outside the Innovation Lab in the new Teel Academic Center in honor of the Class of 1965.

You’ll want to be part of that celebration. (see photo on next page)

(Right) Donald Jennings Link '63 (Far Right) Photo of Tony Ross Stewart '64 and the Student Council from the 1964 Navigator.

SPRING 2015

27

ALUMNI WEEKEND • MAY 15 & 16, 2015

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1965 classmates Bruce Spinney, Sandy Clark, Steve Claggett, along with Doug Lagarde did a hard hat tour of the new Teel Academic Center; Leroy Maclin Sparks '71 senior class photo

Ralph Stoll reported, "Both daughters are now in the Seattle area, which makes Sharon and me quite happy. Lee is a morning news anchor for KOMO-4, the local ABC affiliate, and Paige returned from several years in NYC to start her own organic baby food business that has morphed into special meals for ill children being treated as outpatients at Seattle’s Children’s Hospital.

Jim Nixdorff summarized his last 50 years, “I had a successful Army career for 23 years stationed in Colorado, Germany, England, DC and Brussels. England was the best - 2 years running a training department at a Brit Army school was something else. My wife and I were the only Americans on the post and got invited to everything! I retired in 1993 and did homeland security for Booz Allen for about 15 years and then hung it up. Do a little volunteering now and then and became a Virginia master gardener. I’ve had a house out near Warrenton, VA since 1984. Life is good!”

1968

Chris Crawford has been found to be alive and well. By all appearances he could compete in any wrestling tournament. He's still playing music and is an inspiration - as always!

1971

I N M E M O R I A M On November 4, 2014,

Leroy Maclin Sparks, 61, devoted husband of Georgeline Sparks and loving father of Lillian Sparks Robinson and Elyse Sparks Jackson, entered into his eternal rest in Baltimore. Leroy enjoyed his profession in counseling and most importantly the love of his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, two daughters, three grandchildren, mother, two brothers, and a host of other relatives and friends. In 1990, Severn School started the "Leroy Sparks Scholarship" for deserving minority students. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to this scholarship program in memory of Roy. (see photo above)

1973

Mike Houser welcomes son, Chad '03, back from New York City to Annapolis. Chad joins his father at his wealth management firm, Morgan Stanley Graystone.

1991

Heather Clark Piskorowski writes, “I was thrilled to head back to Annapolis this past fall 2014 for a girls weekend, hosted by Carrie MacVean Grimes at her beautiful home in Murray Hill. Attending as well were 1991 class-

28

THE BRIDGE

mates, Melissa White Morsberger, Melissa Allen, Nikki Huberfeld, and Cheryl Helman Madden. Carrie planned an amazing weekend of great Annapolitan eats, kayaking out in the Bay, and just good old catching up. Carrie is still loving her job as director of admissions for the Preschool for the Arts at St. Anne's, Melissa M. is a school nurse in the Baltimore area, Melissa A. is running her own design firm in the DC area, Nikki is a law professor at the University of Kentucky College of Law, and Cheryl is a psychologist practicing on her own as well as for the V.A. in Philadelphia. Despite busy schedules and 14 children total between us, we all managed to get away and really enjoy a girls' weekend.”

1992

Jimmy Dodson and his wife Elizabeth are excited to announce the birth of their second child, Charles Francis on July 31, 2014. Charles joins his brother Fitz.

Bart Shaeffer and his wife Beth Ann welcomed their fourth son, Walter Humphrey Shaeffer, on November 1, 2014. Walter was born 7 pounds 9 ounces, 21 inches long and joins proud older brothers Charlie, George and Bart II. Zach Wade and Christine McKagen Wade ’93 are building a new home in their existing neighborhood of 12 years. Their two boys Jack (9) and Haden (7) are enjoying football and lacrosse this fall.

ALUMNI WEEKEND • MAY 15 & 16, 2015

1993

Allison Clark Collins reports that she lives in Arlington, Va. with her husband, son Jake (4), and daughter Libby (2). “I am currently working as the director of training for Tiny Chefs, a company that provides kids cooking programs in the DC area.”

1998

Andrea Ceccarelli Cuniff reports, "Justin and I are living and both working in Annapolis.

Moving to the Annapolis office of Maryland Primary Care has enabled me to reconnect with a lot of Severn friends, parents, and faculty. I am honored that they have entrusted me with their healthcare. Our son Jackson just turned 5, and Bennett turned 3 in March. Time flies!”

Dan Ericson is counsel at the Federal Reserve Board in Washington, DC, and focuses on enforcement matters against financial institutions, their officers, and employees. Dan also holds an appointment as a professorial lecturer in political science at The George Washington University, where he teaches a constitutional law course on the powers of the Federal government each fall. Dan, his wife Ellen, and son Seth (2), live in Chevy Chase, Md.

2000 Reunion Year!

Congratulations to Jane Friend who has a new position as acting coordinator of elementary reading for Anne Arundel County.

Katy Shelor Harvey and husband, Jonathan Goodwin, are currently on a world tour with a

new show called, The Illusionists: 1903, which premiered in Australia in January. Katy shares, “The show is set at the turn of the century and celebrates the golden age of magic but we will be the only non-magic act in the show. I will be assisting Jonathan “The Daredevil” on stage as we perform some really exciting and dangerous stunts on stages all over the world!”

Doug Mayer recently moved back to Maryland and is working for Governor Larry Hogan as his deputy communications director and spokesman.

Congratulations to newlyweds Chris Powell and wife Molly. They were married on August 30 in Door County, Wisc. Tom Baxter Denney and Eric Hadhazy were attendants in the wedding along with many other Severn alumni in attendance. The couple lives in San Diego, Calif.

2001

Helen McCaffrey Birney and sister Lu Birney '16 finished the Miami Half Marathon together on January 25. This was Lu's second half marathon and Helen's second Miami half marathon.

Helen has also finished the full Miami and New York marathons in previous years. Severn girl power! (see photo below)

2002

Courtney Hattan is currently a doctoral student in the department of human development and quantitative methodology at the University of Maryland, College Park. Courtney recently completed her research study, on how teachers instruct reading with meaning and how students respond, at Severn’s Lower School.

CLASS NOTES

2003

Kirby Douglas McAdoo and Scott McAdoo were married in the presence of their families and a few close friends January 2 at Ft. Zachary Taylor in Key West, Fla. They will be holding a celebration this Spring for all their family and friends. Kirby has worked as a senior project manager for Single Point Construction, LLC in the DC and VA area for the last six years. Scott is an Anne Arundel County police officer, and was recently named officer of the month for saving three young lives. Kirby and Scott are living in Annapolis. (see photo below)

2004

Alex Caldwell finished her masters in public health in January and moved to Geneva, Switzerland, to work in global health at the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

She is also newly engaged and planning a 2016 wedding.

2005 Reunion Year!

On September 6, John Eckert married Sophie Thibodeau at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's Phillip Merrill Center in Annapolis. Earlier that year John asked Sophie to marry him on top of a mountain at Alta Ski Resort in Utah.

Lesley Sutherland married Clayton Alexander in May 2014 at the Annapolis Yacht Club. Many fellow Severn alumni were there to celebrate.

Soon after, they both graduated from University of Maryland Medical School. They are enjoying their first year as medical residents. (see photo on next page)

(Right) Lu Birney '15 and Helen McCaffrey Birney '01 after finishing the Miami Half Marathon (Far Right) Kirby Douglas McAdoo '03 and husband Scott SPRING 2015

29

ALUMNI WEEKEND • MAY 15 & 16, 2015

CLASS NOTES

Lesley Sutherland '05 and husband Clayton Alexander; Alex Jackson '06 and wife Janelle; Kelsey Schaible '06 and boyfriend Ben Odell

2006

Congratulations to Lindsay Hall J.D. on her recent graduation from George Washington University Law School.

Keri Houser and Chase Bourdelaise ’04 announced their engagement and plans for a May 2015 wedding. Keri graduated from The Ohio State University with a bachelor of science degree in human ecology and a minor in business. She is an account executive for Catchpoint Systems. Chase received a bachelor of science in business administration from Roanoke College. He is employed as the northeastern director of research at Transwestern RBJ. Alex Jackson and wife Janelle Horsley were married November 1 at the Silver Swan Bayside in Stevensville, Md. Alex graduated from Virginia Tech in 2010 with a BA in communications, and is currently the senior account executive at Maroon PR. The couple lives in Grasonville, Md. with their cat, Gino Capone. (see photo above) Kelsey Schaible is working as the marketing manager of PCM Services and founder of KFS Design, a freelance marketing, communication and design firm. She is now living in Hermosa Beach, Calif., enjoying the sunshine and warm weather and visits from her good friends from Severn. (see photo above)

30

THE BRIDGE

2007

Bob Baker is completing his second year at Yale Law School. He will be working at the law firm Sullivan & Cromwell located in New York and London this summer.

Hayley Bosch moved to New York City in the fall to join a partnership development company called Axcess Worldwide, focusing on creating strategic alliances between brands in luxury, lifestyle, and hospitality sectors. She moved around the corner from both Hanna Watt and Samantha Goldman in Greenwich Village.

Hanna works in marketing at Sotheby's Auction House. Samantha works at a residential interior design firm, Sara Story Design, while finishing a design degree at New York School of Interior Design.

Nick Elsmo recently moved out to San Francisco to accept a job in wealth management at Fisher Investments. He joined Peter Dunigan in the Bay Area, who is working in customer support and sales for LIM Innovations. LIM Innovations is a medical device company that created the Infinite Socket, improving the technology and comfort of amputees using prosthetics.

Nick Foster is currently living on the west coast to further develop his computer hardware company, the "wise ball” a hand held mouse that connects all devices and operating systems.

Chase Loetz is working as a physician liason at The Center for Vascular Medicine, helping to treat people suffering from vascular disease and insufficiency. He is living in Federal Hill with Jaren Brown and Fletch Burdett. Jaren is a systems integration engineer with District

Photo in Beltsville, Md. Sarah Masek is working as a nurse at UMMC in Baltimore while attending nurse practitioner school at George Washington University.

Ryan O'Malley is an english teacher at the Harbour School in Annapolis and living in Federal Hill.

Angie Rawlinson was married September 6 to Jeff Zablocki at St. John the Evangelist Church in Severna Park and celebrated their marriage at Chartwell Golf and Country Club. Angie and Jeff met while attending Salisbury University.

Natalie Crawley was her maid of honor.

Matt Siska moved down to sunny Fort Lauderdale and is receiving a master’s in medical science from Nova Southeastern University to become a physician assistant.

When not studying, he takes advantage of living in the warm weather and on the water.

Alyssa Vain-Callahan was married in May 2013 to John Reynolds at the Duke Chapel in Durham, N.C. Many Severn grads attended, including Sara Saldi, Laura Williams, Eamonn '12, Rohan '14 and Marah VainCallahan '19. The couple currently lives in Montgomery County. Alyssa is very busy teaching high school English at Sandy Spring Friends School, as well as running a new cottage business called Mrs. Reynolds' Bake Shop. (see photo on next page) Laura Williams is now living in Boston and attending graduate school at Harvard University in the prevention science and practice program. She will earn a master’s in education degree in May.

ALUMNI WEEKEND • MAY 15 & 16, 2015

CLASS NOTES

Are you our secret admirer?

If you’ve included Severn School in your estate plans, please tell us about it.

We can shout it from the rooftop or keep it quiet if you prefer to stay anonymous. Either way, knowing about your plans will help us better prepare for the future.

1914

Severn students are the future leaders of our community. They will influence our children and our grandchildren. They will shape our future world.

And when you plan a gift to Severn School, you pave the way for their long-term success and make the future brighter for all of us.

2014

And for that,

We admire you back. No secret about it!

Please get in touch and tell us about your philanthropic plans for Severn School. Your spot in the Severn 1914 Society and a very special thank-you gift are waiting for you.

Mary Salsich - Director of Gift Planning | 410.647.7701 ext. 2261 | m.salsich@severnschool.com

.......................................................................................................................................

www.severnschool.plannedgiving.org

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3/6/15 12:18:07 PM

SPRING 2015

31

ALUMNI WEEKEND • MAY 15 & 16, 2015

CLASS NOTES

Erika Wilson is spending her third year in Chicago working in sales. Erika works with chefs at white tablecloth restaurants providing them with high end seafood and gourmet foods from around the world.

Kelsey McCleary is a talent acquisition manager at Pearson in Baltimore. She lives in Eastport with Caitlin Wood in a perfectly decorated apartment, nautical themed, of course. Caitlin is an account executive at OutMarket.

PLEASE JOIN US FOR

ALUMNI

WEEKEND MAY 15 & 16, 2015 CELEBRATING THE PAST, CONSTRUCTING THE FUTURE!

MILESTONE REUNION YEARS If you graduated in a year ending with a 5 or 0, make plans now to return to Severn to celebrate your milestone reunion at Alumni Weekend 2015!

You won’t want to miss this party!

GIVE A CLASS GIFT "Come back, Give back!"

Please use the enclosed gift envelope to make your class gift today!

Questions?

Contact Alumni Relations Director, Tyler Larkin '03 at t.larkin@severnschool.com

2008

Taylor Burns recently got engaged to Lane Margolin. The wedding is planned for August 5, 2016 in Sayville, NY. Carey Davis and Brian McGarvey will be married June 20 at St. Anne’s Church in Annapolis with the reception at Carey's parents' home.

Alex McQuoid got married, and started working as a professor in the economics department at the U.S. Naval Academy in August 2015.

Alex Plavner graduated from the financial management program at GE and moved to New York City to work in strategy and operations consulting at Deloitte.

Will Smith reports, “In 2012, I graduated from Washington and Lee with an accounting major and played basketball there. After graduation, I worked for two years in Charlotte, N.C., at Bank of America/Merrill Lynch as an investment banking analyst. I just recently took a new job this year working for Harren Equity Partners, a private equity firm in Charlottesville, Va. If anyone else is at UVA or is in central Virginia these days, please let me know! Would be awesome to reconnect if other people have moved here.”

2010 Reunion Year!

Hats off to Drew Foard '10 (USNA '15) on his ship selection of USS Makin Island with a home port in San Diego! (see photo below)

Congratulations to Beau Wood who was drafted by the Rochester Rattlers as the 39th overall pick in the Major League Lacrosse supplemental draft.

2011

Kaylee Schwitzer is working hard to become a UX Designer - designing websites and mobile apps. She is taking frontend coding and UX design courses at General Assembly, an educational institution that transforms thinkers into creators through education in technology, business and design, participating in several all-weekend hackathons, and working for several tech start-ups. In May, she’s Biking Across America for M.S. from Bar Harbor to Seattle. In the fall, she will return to Bowdoin College for her final semester.

2012

2012 graduates are all over the globe studying abroad this semester: Jack Cauley is in Buenos Aires, Max Siegrist is in Alicante, Spain, and Kathryn Wilbur is in Barcelona, Spain.

Caroline Schaffer, Erin Littlepage, and Natalie Peelish are studying in London, England. Lauren Morrell is in Cape Town, South Africa and Kyle Moran is in Rome, Italy.

2014

Congratulations to Emily Gibbons, Gettysburg women’s basketball player who was named Rookie of the Year in the Centennial Conference following a fantastic freshman campaign. (see photo below)

Alyssa Vain-Callahan '07 and husband John Reynolds; Drew Foard '10 (USNA '15); Emily Gibbons '14 32

THE BRIDGE

The Severn community cherishes the memory of Don and Sandy Pyle, Lexi '24 and Katie '26 Boone, and Charlotte '24 and Wes '27 Boone.

A story that several teachers read to students, "The Invisible String" by Patrice Karst, teaches of the tie that connects us to those near and far — the invisible strings — and keep our memories and love present. We have learned that with our invisible strings we are connected forever, and the Severn community holds our invisible strings to the loved ones we have lost. Our invisible strings will continue to grow and will be connected forever in our hearts to Don, Sandy, Lexi '24, Katie '26, Charlotte '24, and Wes '27.

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Our inaugural issue of the severn school education series hit mailboxes in March and highlighted the "Maker Movement."

For more information and resources on the Maker Movement go to: www.severnschool.com/makermovement