Thayer Magazine - Winter/Spring 2018

Thayer

MAGAZINE WINTER / SPRING 2018

for the common

THE THAYER COMMUNITY LIVING OUT THE ACADEMY’S MISSION

JACK COUTURE ’52

LONNI TANNER ’76

BRENDAN McDONOUGH ’87 P ’18, ’22

TANISHA SULLVIAN ’92

ALEGRIA DE LA CRUZ ’93

MARILYN LEGG P ’88

STEVEN BRANFMAN P ’00, ’02

ALLISON GARNSEY

CURRENT STUDENTS

THE MISSION OF THAYER ACADEMY IS TO INSPIRE A DIVERSE COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS TO MORAL, INTELLECTUAL, AESTHETIC, AND PHYSICAL EXCELLENCE SO THAT EACH MAY RISE TO HONORABLE ACHIEVEMENT AND CONTRIBUTE TO THE COMMON GOOD.

Thayer

MAGAZINE

P U B L I S H E D B I A N N UA L LY - E V E R Y D E C / JA N & AU G / S E P

HEADMASTER Ted Koskores ’70 P ’10, ’13 DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Joanna Skoler Gilman ’86 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, LAYOUT & DESIGN

Paul W. Kahn DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS & CREATIVE MEDIA

pkahn@thayer.org PRINCIPAL EDITORS

Rebecca Delaney EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Joanna Skoler Gilman ’86 DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Melissa Tuthill Forger ’92 DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

PRINCIPAL WRITERS

Rebecca Delaney Paul W. Kahn CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Craig Salters ’86 Andy Goffin ’18 PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Grant, Chris Bernstein SUPPLEMENTAL PHOTOGRAPHY & IMAGES

Paul W. Kahn, Nadine Steffan P ’18, ’21, Depositphotos.com, Adobe Stock CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Brad Peterson ’11, Christine Dahlheimer, Kevin Steuer, Tina Lim, Rachael Rouvales Vassalotti ’79 P ’07, ’11, ’12, Nicki Pardo, Kelly Hines P ’07, ’11, Tara Corcoran ’88 P ’07, ’11, Donna Richardson P ’09, ’11

Thayer Homecoming 2017 from above.

SPRING 2018 HIGHLIGHTS

For a complete listing of events, go to www.thayer.org/calendar

Student Dance Performance January 9

US Winter Musical February 23-24

US Music Concerts (III & IV) April 17/19

Reunion 2018 May 4-5

US Music Concerts (I & II) January 23/25

Thayer Auction March 2

Cum Laude Dinner April 23

Thayer Prom June 6

Valicenti Cup January 26

MS Drama March 8

Student Dance Performance May 1

Last Chapel June 8

Winter Wars February 12-16

Spring Recess March 10-25

Last Hurrah!

May 3

Commencement June 9

THAYER ACADEMY 2017-2018 BOARD OF TRUSTEES BOARD OFFICERS Melissa Bayer Tearney P ’14, Chair

Danya Abrams Sr. P ’20, ’22

Thomas M. Kent P ’00, ’03, ’09, Vice Chair

Donavan Brown ’01

Linda Hooley P ’06, ’08, ’13, ’16, Secretary

James Cashman ’73

Daniel Budde P ’10, ’12, Treasurer

Julian H. Cherubini ’53

Bill Stephenson Assistant Treasurer

Robert F. Daylor P ’02, ’13

Thayer Academy Business Manager

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BOARD MEMBERS

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

P ’19, ’21

Elaine DeLuca P ’20, ’21

Sean Doherty P ’19, ’20

Mike McNally P ’22, ’24

Darren Donovan P ’17, ’20

John Morey P ’11, ’13

James J. Ferrera ’81

Maureen Pace P ’19, ’21

P ’09, ’12, ’15, ’16

Kevin Gill P ’11, ’13

Fergus Shiel P ’13, ’15, ’18

Kathy Horgan P ’20 Michael Joe P ’17, ’20

Ted Koskores ’70

Brenda Lyons P ’12, ’14, ’18

Tom Shanley ’97 Ex officio as

Brendan McDonough ’87

P ’18, ’22

P ’10, ’13, Headmaster

President of the Alumni Board

LETTER FROM THE HEADMASTER /// TED KOSKORES ’70, P ’10, ’13 Dear Thayer Community, This edition of the Thayer Magazine pays particular homage to the important ways that our students, teachers, staff, and alumni contribute to the common good, one of the most important facets of our mission.

Profiles of several students – Sam Hisenberg ’23, Brian Cui ’19, Johany Madrid ’19, Hanna Stern ’18, Ellie Raymond ’18 and Emma Steffan ’18 – underscore the many ways our students act locally and globally to make the lives of others richer. In addition, a photo gallery documents the efforts of several other Middle and Upper School students involved in community service.

The story of Thayer’s Holiday Toy Project – led so inspirationally by my cherished assistant Marilyn Legg P ’88 – recounts how our students’ charitable impulses are touchingly awakened each year. We learn, as well, about Science teacher Allison Garnsey’s call to serve our country through enlisting in the National Guard and the leadership of art teacher Steven Branfman P ’00, ’02 in raising money for cancer research through the Pan Mass Challenge.

Similarly impressive are stories of alumni engagement in the common good. Alegria De La Cruz ’93, Chief Deputy Counsel for Sonoma County, is helping residents rebuild after the wildfires in Northern California; Tanisha Sullivan ’92, leads the Boston branch of the NAACP; Lonni Tanner ’76, works in NYC as Chief of the Office of Social Innovation; Brendan McDonough ’87 P ’18, ’22, founded and leads neighborhood youth development programs such as Dorchester’s Project DEEP; and veteran Jack Couture ’52, had a long military career with the US Navy in a unit that was the antecedent of the Navy SEALS. Additionally, I invite you to follow the dynamic changes taking place on campus in areas as diverse as new programs, athletic and artistic achievements. There is news, too, about alumni — reunions, wedding, babies...and much more.

Thayer is a very special place. Our rich tradition of contributing to the common good speaks volumes about what we value.

Sincerely,

Ted Koskores ’70 P ’10, ’13 HEADMASTER, THAYER ACADEMY

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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Thayer

MAGAZINE WINTER / SPRING 2018

Johany Madrid ’19 teaching kids in Nicaragua with Students Shoulder-to-Shoulder. Read about her experience in her own words on p. 15

FOR THE COMMON GOOD: FEATURES & STORIES 12-28 Students Giving Back 13-16

A Call to Serve

Good Design

Madame President 22-23

In Their Own Words

18-19

A Profile of Lonni Tanner ’76

Leaving a Lasting Impact 20

Decades of Giving - The Holiday Toy Project

ERRATA

FROM THE SUMMER/FALL 2017 ISSUE

A Legacy of Service

21

Faculty Member Allison Garnsey

Cycling for a Cure

A Profile of Tanisha Sullivan ’92

Looking Back with Pride A Profile of Jack Couture ’52

25

A Profile of Alegria De La Cruz ’93

26-27

Faculty Member Steven Branfman P ’00, ’02

24

Founding Father

28

Brendan McDonough ’87 P ’18, ’22

Faculty & Staff

ERRATA from the 2016-17 Annual Report of Giving

Erroneously left off this list Diane Haigh Jennifer Kuhn John Reid

Current Parents

Last name was misspelled Sandra Colman ’73 P ’18 c c

On page 42 of the Summer/Fall issue, we erroneously ran the wrong picture of Rhyland Keller ’17.

Parents of Alumni

Should have had two paws Bev & Art Cherry P ’98, ’99, ’01, ’03 c c Maura & Jack Leddy P ’12 c c

Alumni Giving

Erroneously left off this list

Here’s the picture of Rhyland that should have run:

Class of 1973

Sandra Colman ’73 P ’18 c c NOTE: All corrections have been made on the online version of the report found at:

www.thayer.org/annualreport

Should have had one paw

Class of 2012

Patrick J. Leddy c

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Table of Contents Letter from the Headmaster

Ted Koskores ’70 P ’10, ’13

Photo Highlights

6-7

Campus News & Highlights

"

We are people focused.

And so far, I believe that we are moving in the right direction.

"

Tanisha Sullivan ’92 President of the NAACP Boston Branch

Should have had two paws

Class of 1978

J. Gary Hebert c c

Class of 1982

Karen Andreassi Falcone ’82 c c

Class of 1988

3

- A New Middle School CDL - A New Role at Thayer - Flag Football at the Middle School

8-10 8 8

9

Story by Andy Goffin ’18, TASN

- A “Wonder”-ful Surprise Guest - Global Scholars Film Series - The Start of Something New in 2018-19

10 10 11

FOR THE COMMON GOOD: FEATURES & STORIES 12-28 Thayer Arts

- Thayer Upper School Art Gallery - Thayer Photography Students Gallery - Pippin Photo Gallery - Annie Photo Gallery - Greek Myths Gallery - The Art of Friendship (Thayer Gallery)

29-37

29 30-31 32-33 34 35 36-37

Gallery Exhibit of Bill Searle P ’85, ’87 and Ted Polomis ’80

Thayer Athletics

38-40

- Two Teams: Two Championships

39

- Thayer Athletics Photo Gallery

40

Thayer Varsity Girls Soccer and Cross Country

Alumni News & Notes

- Alumni Basketball Game 2017 - Upcoming Alumni Events - General’s Council Dinner Recap - Thayer Sports Hall of Fame Inductees Honoring Slattery ’74, Mullin Harney ’96, Lally ’87

41-45 41 41 42-44 45

Class Notes

46-57

Thayer Weddings

52-53

Thayer Babies 55

Scott Legg c c

Class of 1998

John S. Cherry c c

Class of 1999

Alison L. Cherry c c

Class of 2001

Carolyn N. Cherry c c

Class of 2003

Christopher R. Cherry c c

Alumni Giving

59

In Memoriam

60-65

The Final Word

66

Chuck Wade ’49 on why he gives

Reflections on a Painting (Bill Searle P ’85, ’87 & Anni Zukauskas ’94)

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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Thayer PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

Thayer Varsity Girls Soccer players storm the field celebrating the team’s first ever New England Championship.

Photo by Nadine Steffan P ’18, ’21. See more on Thayer’s fall athletics success stories on p. 38.

Jack Snyder ’23, Beau Chouinard ’23, and Axel Foss ’23 help out with food prep at Community Servings in Jamaica Plain. To learn more about students involved with community service on pp. 13-16.

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Thayer PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

FALL 2017

TA HIGHLIGHTS

SEP

THAYER 8TH GRADER ALLY SENTNOR ’22 SCORES TWO GOALS FOR THE U16 U.S. GIRLS NATIONAL TEAM IN GERMANY

THE THAYER YEAR BEGINS FOR 700 MIDDLE & UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS AT CONVOCATION 2017

OCT

THAYER’S FOOTBALL & GIRLS SOCCER TEAMS SCORE IMPRESSIVE VICTORIES AT

Thayer’s most generous donors enjoy a night at the Boston Public Library during the 2017 General’s Council Dinner. Read more about the wonderful event on p. 42.

HOMECOMING

THREE THAYER ALUMNI ARE INDUCTED TO THE HALL OF FAME (See p. 45)

NOV

Executing a pick and roll with Jude David ’06, Brandon Odom ’04 looks to drive the lane as Nate Richman ’07 moves in to defend. See all the alumni who participated at the annual Homecoming Alumni Basketball game on p. 41.

BOTH GIRLS SOCCER AND GIRLS X-C WIN THE NEW ENGLAND CHAMPIONSHIP (See p. 38-39)

THAYER QUALIFIES FOR THE WGBH QUIZ SHOW FOR THE THIRD STRAIGHT YEAR

THAYER PRODUCTIONS OF ANNIE (IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL) AND PIPPIN (IN THE UPPER SCHOOL) ARE SMASHING SUCCESSES! (See pp. 32-35)

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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Thayer NEWS & HIGHLIGHTS

A NEW ROLE AT THAYER

THE NEW MIDDLE SCHOOL CDL

Associate Director of Admissions Jenn Welch was recently appointed to the newly formed role of Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity.

Welch has worked at Thayer for seven years as the Associate Director of Admissions and Director of International Programs. She works closely with Thayer students as a faculty advisor for the OMEGA diversity club and leads the Senior Project trip to China.

Middle School students have been hard at work this year in the new Collaborative Design Lab. The space includes tools such as a video cyc wall, a laser engraver and cutter, a vinyl printer, heat press, 3D printers, and Raspberry Pi computers for programming. Students and faculty from all subject

areas are experiencing inter-disciplinary exploration and investigation in a variety of hands-on projects. Thank you to the families of the Class of 2021 for supporting this project as their Middle School Legacy.

Prior to Thayer, Welch was an admissions associate at The Steppingstone Foundation, worked as a national diversity trainer at Northeastern University’s Center for the Study of Sport in Society, and has taught in the Boston Public Schools.

“I am thrilled to take on this new role, as it is an exciting time at Thayer Academy,” says Welch. “I have felt an overwhelming amount of support from my colleagues and friends which is what makes Thayer a special place to be a part of. I am inspired to celebrate all the unique and diverse talents that make up our community, and grateful for being given this opportunity.”

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

Thayer NEWS & HIGHLIGHTS

FLAG FOOTBALL AT THE MIDDLE SCHOOL Story by Andy Goffin ’18, TA Sports Network (TASN)

After years of offering a Middle School tackle football program for grades 6-8, Thayer added a flag football team exclusively for its 6th graders this year.

“We just want to have fun. We play hard, work hard, and try our best. If we lose, we are good sports about it. If we win, we do not show off,” says 6th grader Calin OcneanSanchez ’24.

The team developed as an alternative to the Middle School tackle football team. Many of the teams that the Middle School tackle football team plays have only 7th and 8th graders, so in the past, 6th graders were forced to go up against older, bigger kids. This created a difficult situation for the coaches and players in that the coaches needed to pick the moments in the game when the 6th graders could safely compete.

With Thayer adding 5th grade next fall, there now exists a program for the incoming 5th grade class to actively participate on a football team, without parents and kids having to worry about competing against older and bigger middle school students.

fundamentals of the game and to just have fun. “The 6th graders currently playing flag football will continue to learn the game and move through the program next year. This will also help to sustain the number of players in the high school program for the future,” he says. “The kids enjoy learning play calls and different game situations while maintaining a supportive environment.”

Coach Steuer says that the team has competed well in its first couple games and collectively has a few skills to work on in practice. “This team never quits and plays harder as the game progresses,” he says.

The team carries this mentality into practice and games.

“My favorite part about flag football is just the people.

One person can do things, but as a team, we can do more.

I feel like this team is really in sync. It is really a bonding experience,” says Martin Nyagilo ’24.

The flag football program allows a small group of 6th graders to safely learn the game of football, have more of an opportunity to participate, and build camaraderie during these student athletes’ first semester at Thayer Academy.

Assistant Athletic Director Kevin Steuer coaches the young squad, and says his goal is to teach his team the

TASN thayer academy sports network

TA Sports Network (TASN) works with the Athletics Office to cover Thayer’s athletic teams by announcing at games, interviewing players and coaches after games, and writing post-game recaps for the website.

To see an example of TASN coverage, read the Homecoming recap (with video) by Andy Goffin ’18

www.thayer.org/news/homecoming2017

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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Building on Thayer’s vibrant Global Scholars Program, this year-long film

A “WONDER”-FUL SURPRISE VISITOR

Thayer Middle School students were treated to a surprise in November when Jacob Tremblay, who plays Auggie in the hit movie Wonder, visited the campus to chat with students (after joining the sixth grade for a screening of the movie). The novel (by R.J. Palacio) and movie are about a boy with facial deformities and his struggle to fit in.

Tremblay spoke about what it was like filming the movie, which also stars Owen Wilson and Julia Roberts, and his life as an actor. He also answered several questions from students (all of whom read the book during their time at Thayer), signed autographs, and (of course) posed for selfies.

Here are a couple of responses from the Q&A he had with the giddy, starstruck Thayer Middle School students: What did you have to do to get ready for filming Wonder each day?

I had to wake up really early before any other cast or crew members got on the set and we had to put on the prosthetics and that took two hours in the morning to put on, and just half an hour to take off. But it was really interesting because they had a bunch of different pieces for it. They had a neck piece. They had a main face piece; a helmet connected to a mechanism, which pulls down my lower eyelids; a wig, contact lenses, and dentures.

What would you want most people to take away from Wonder?

Mainly the message to choose kind, but also be brave and be true to yourself.

series accents current issues of global import. We welcome members of our community and the public to join us to view and discuss movies that reflect the program’s mission.

Movies are screened free-of-charge at Thayer Academy’s Southworth Library on four Tuesdays throughout the winter months. Show starts at 7pm sharp. A panel discussion (led by Thayer Academy Global Scholars, with audience participation) follows the screenings. Conversation continues at the infusion social until 9:30pm.

JANUARY 30, 2018 7pm - Southworth Library Sold (2016) dir. by Jeffrey D. Brown

FEBRUARY 27, 2018 7pm - Southworth Library Ten Billion (2015) dir. by Peter Webber

Past Screenings in 2017: Poverty, Inc. (2014) dir. by Michael Matheson Miller

Bending the Arc (2017) See more of Jacob’s responses at thayer.org/news, and view more pictures on our social media channels

 @thayeracademy

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@thayeracademy

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

dir. by Kief Davidson & Pedro Kos

The start of

something

new

th

5 Grade at Thayer Middle School

Thayer Academy is excited to announce a new 5th grade class in the Middle School, starting this fall!

Fifth graders at Thayer will dive into an exciting program that includes Latin, Roman history, a hands-on science curriculum, a rigorous math program, as well as writing-intensive assignments throughout the year.

Students will also:  Work on creative, interdisciplinary projects in the new Collaborative Design Lab.  Participate in Declamation, a Thayer tradition in which all Middle School students learn a poem, speech, or piece of literature and dramatically perform the piece in front of their classmates.  Receive a solid foundation in study skills and executive function—laying the groundwork for a successful academic experience throughout their years at Thayer.  Have the opportunity to compete in interscholastic sports and participate in Middle School clubs, and arts such as drama, music, and chorus.

We are currently accepting applications for the 2018-19 school year!

For more details on the curriculum visit www.thayer.org/middleschool Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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for the common

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

The alumni, students, and faculty profiled in the following pages have taken an important tenet of Thayer’s mission of contributing “to the common good” to heart.

They live these words each day in their jobs, service, and fundraising activities.

From hosting a carnival for children with special needs on campus, to teaching English in Nicaraugua, to raising funds to fight childhood cancer by cycling across the state— the Thayer community is impacting the lives of those less fortunate throughout the world.

The profiles that follow are just a sampling of the inspiration we find throughout our entire community.

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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STUDENTS GIVING BACK

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

SAM HISENBERG ’23 - Boston I worked with the 7th grade at the Heading Homes Homeless Shelter. We cleaned up the house and made it nice for all of the families that live there. I liked it a lot. I thought it was cool that we got help other people. and I felt really lucky for all I have. I’ve done some volunteering before with my Cub Scout troop before cleaning up parks. It was nice to get out of the classroom and do something to help people in the real world.

Note: Sam was part of the 7th grade service day in November, during which students volunteered at various organizations such as the Heading Homes Homeless Shelter, Cradles to Crayons, Community Servings, and the Greater Boston Food Bank.

Sam’s group, which was chaperoned by his father, Greg, and other parents and faculty, cleaned two kitchens, raked the yards and decorated the home for Thanksgiving.

A YEAR OF GIVING BACK AT THAYER:

BRIAN CUI ’19 - China I started a program called “Dream Library” that donates educational resources (such as books, magazines, computers) to ZhenXing, Liaoning, China in 2014. I have gone back there every summer to help.

I chose ZhenXing because that’s my father's hometown, and he inspired me to start this program. He told me how much of an impact reading books had on his life, but those books and other resources weren’t available for him in ZhenXing. Knowing the same problem exists today, I decided to do whatever I could to help, which led to the creation of this project.

Last summer, I raised around $4,000 selling my photographs. We used part of the money to buy subscriptions to educational newspapers, scientific magazines, and other periodicals for the four schools that we support.

This is definitely something that I plan to continue to do in the future - it’s always part of my summer plan, no matter how busy I am. It is the connection with my father and my passion for photography that make it special.

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

11th Grade Community Service Outings

Environmental Club Clean-Up Treats for Troops

7th Grade Community Service Outings Thayer Coat Drive

SERVING: ARC of the South Shore, Cardinal Cushing Centers, Christmas in the City, Community Servings, Cradles to Crayons, 13

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

JOHANY MADRID ’19 - Boston and Nicaragua I volunteer every Saturday at Steppingstone where I’m a tutor for kids in 5th and 6th grade. I volunteer for Steppingstone because they really helped me out when I was in 5th/6th grade with applications and extra help outside of school. I went through the process that the kids I tutor are going through so I know exactly what’s up.

I also went to Nicaragua this summer for 20 days. I went with Students Shoulder-to-Shoulder and taught English classes to pre-K through 4th grade students. I also helped lay the foundation for a new 5th grade classroom at the Ometepe Bilingual School.

ELLIE RAYMOND ’18 - Boston Since sophomore year, I have been volunteering in the kitchen at a women’s shelter, Rosie's Place. I have volunteered over 100 hours, preparing food, serving food, and forming strong relationships with the guests who look to Rosie's for help. This past summer I also did an internship at Rosie's Place that was focused on social justice issues. I attended multiple seminars regarding social justice issues in our world and how they affect the people that attend Rosie's Place. After the seminars, I volunteered over 40 hours in the kitchen to interact with the guests about social justice in their lives.

I also held a back-to-school drive that donated over $2000 worth of school supplies to inner city Boston kids. It was a truly eye-opening experience and made me less ignorant of the world around me. I have really loved volunteering with Rosie's Place as it has helped me expand my perspective past our little "bubble." I have been able to push out of my comfort zone and interact with people of other backgrounds. Rosie's Place has allowed me to find a love for community service, and actually inspired me to pursue a job in the non-profit field as my career in the future.

NOVEMBER (Cont’d)

DECEMBER

FEBRUARY

M5 Regatta (on hiatus for 2017) Thanksgiving Food Drive 11th Grade Letters to Veterans

Holiday Toy Drive Girls for a Cause Jimmy Fund outing

Winter Wars - Charity Drive Thayer Blood Drive

Dedham Community House, Dedham Food Pantry, Father Bill’s, Franklin Park Zoo, Friends of the Blue Hills, 14

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

EMMA STEFFAN ’18 Pine Ridge Indian Reservation - South Dakota This summer I was part of a group that travelled to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.

I did this through Students Shoulder-to-Shoulder.

While we were there we worked in a children’s healing camp in the Black Hills. The Black Hills of South Dakota are considered extremely sacred to the Lakota people (the Native American tribe we worked with).

For this reason the Lakota elders and leaders try to schedule camps for young people to learn about traditional culture and recover from any violence or trauma they may have suffered on the reservation through use of traditional cleansing ceremonies. Overall it was an amazing experience to be able to work with the Lakota kids and it was very hard to leave them when our week there was over.

HANNA STERN ’18 - Boston I’ve been volunteering since I was 13 years old and preparing for my Bat Mitzvah. A value that’s very important to me is Tikkun Olam (repairing the world), the idea that if we have an opportunity, then we have an obligation to help others. Community service is not just an obligation for me though; I do it because I want to - I’m happy to make a difference.

There are several community service projects that have had special meaning to me. I started volunteering by participating in a dance workshop for Parkinson’s patients to help them with balance and mobility. I’m a dancer and at the time my grandfather had recently died from Parkinson’s disease, so it was a way for me to honor him. I was also a part of two community-building projects through the Brandeis Design Lab Teen Fellowship. I participated in two semester-long designs.

One project was redesigning a playground at the JCC Early Learning Center in Brighton to make it more creative and useful. The other project was redesigning the prayer space at NewBridge on the Charles Assisted Living Residence in Dedham.

Last year I was selected as a Fellow for the Diller Teen Fellowship, which is an international 15-month program focusing on leadership and civic engagement for Jewish teens. Currently I’m working on my group Impact Project through Diller with New England Yachad, an organization which helps kids and adults with disabilities and brings awareness about special needs in the Jewish community.

Perfect Pals brings students from Thayer and students with special needs from St. Coletta’s School together once a month to play games and do some crafts. Last year I received the Community Service Award from Thayer. It’s special to me because when I volunteer I feel like I’m the one who benefits and it never feels like ‘service.’ I’ve learned new skills (like how to use power tools); made new friendships with many different people; and get to sing and dance, play games, and have fun.

MARCH

MAY

YEAR-ROUND

Pennies for Patients (MS)

St. Coletta Day (8th Graders) Special Olympics track event Senior Service Trips

All 9th Grade advisee groups participate in off-campus community service activities

Greater Boston Food Bank, Grove Manor Estate, Heading Home Homeless Shelter, Interfaith Social Services, Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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ARC OF THE SOUTH SHORE

1

2

COMMUNITY SERVINGS

3

4

CRADLES TO CRAYONS

ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB CLEANUP

5

1

2

3

6

Heading Homes Homeless Shelter - Roxbury (L-R) Devin Kaslauskas ’23, Austin Ngo ’23, Katherine Drozdick ’23 Community Servings - Jamaica Plain (L-R): Emily Johnson ’23, Sophia Pevarnek ’23, Ella Lantigua ’23 Great Esker Park - Weymouth Leading by example, Thayer Science Faculty & Environmental Club Advisor Fari Khalili P ’99, ’07, ’11 assists in the cleanup of Great Esker Park in Weymouth, along with students (L-R): Danny Joca ’19, Caleb Farwell ’18, and Steve Mao ’18

4

5

6

Greater Boston Food Bank - Boston (L-R): Tess Meyers ’23, Anya Zupkofska ’23, Isabella Pappas ’23

GREATER BOSTON FOOD CLUB

Heading Home Homeless Shelter - Roxbury (L-R): Olivia Walker ’23, Peter Fleck ’23, Joseph Bennett ’23 Cradles to Crayons - Brighton A “service selfie” after Izabella Amonte ’23 and her classmates volunteered at Cradles to Crayons

HEADING HOME HOMELESS SHELTER

The Jimmy Fund, NewBridge on the Charles, School on Wheels, Special Olympics, St. Coletta Day School, Westwood Food Pantry / Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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GOOD

DESIGN

Lonni Tanner ’76 and the challenges of designing spaces in NYC Story by Rebecca Delaney

Brooklyn Public Library Stone Ave branch space

Lonni Tanner ’76, who works to

centers is but one avenue. And it can’t

reinvent New York City’s social service

stop there. It has to extend into the

centers, isn’t so much a designer as she

community. There are many moving

is a sleuth and an anthropologist. As

parts and each one affects another,”

Chief of the Office of Social Innovation

says Lonni.

at the New York City Department of Probation, Lonni embeds herself in

Her work isn’t always initially em-

environments to learn how people use

braced, she says. “Some people say,

space and how she can transform them

‘why in God’s name would you want

to improve their lives. “When people

to rethink probation when it’s for

come to these centers for services,

people that have done wrong?’ And the

there’s a window of opportunity while

answer is very simple actually, which is

they wait to add immense value to that

those are the people that actually need

time,” she says.

it the most.” Says Lonni, “Wouldn’t you rather have probation clients here

Lonni has redesigned everything from

writing poems with their families,

probation office waiting rooms and

reading them on the open mic, learning

the city’s largest nursery for children

to play guitar, and working towards

waiting for foster care to 31 elemen-

their high school equivalency exams?

tary school libraries — all with the

Here lies possibility.”

purpose of creating a richer experience for society’s most vulnerable citizens.

As part of her work with probation centers in the city, Lonni introduced a

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

“I’m constantly looking for gaps and

Poet-in-Residence in waiting rooms.

voids that exist and trying to find

The program then evolved into a

places where I can affect change. The

100-page magazine, which led to jobs

example of the city's social service

for clients. One client even published

Designer/Architect Credits: Probation centers: Biber Architects, Office of Paul Sahre; Library: Weiss/Manfredi, Pentagram; Nursery: 2x4, Christoph Niemann

Æ BEFORE AFTER

Before and after of juvenile probation center for the NYC Department of Probation (DOP)

a book of poetry. The goal, Lonni says, is

a child can learn from it their alphabet,

at Camp Thayer’s drama program were

to constantly reinvent experiences. “People

numbers, words, and colors.”

formative.

The children love the nursery, but Lonni still

After Thayer, Lonni studied English at

now come to probation centers when they don’t have to report.”

gets pushback from city government staff.

UMass-Amherst and later went on to help

Before redesigning the nursery for the city’s

“When people have it in their heads that an

launch City Year, working as their Vice

Administration for Children’s Services, Lon-

overhaul means changing the wall colors,

President of Development. She spent 11

ni spent hundreds of hours interacting with

I admit, I cringe at the shortsightedness of

years at the Robin Hood Foundation before

the staff and playing with the children. “The

the opportunity to dig deeper,” she says.

attending Harvard University’s Graduate

staff need to better engage with the children

“Every overhaul is an opportunity to solve a

School of Design as a Loeb Fellow.

and the children need to up their academic,

problem – or many. These projects are more

social, and behavioral skills” she says.

about changing mindsets than changing

Thayer awarded Lonni with the Alumni

colors.”

Humanitarian Award in 1996 for her work launching City Year for which she also

To help spark these children’s imaginations,

earned a Lyndhurst Prize.

engage them in learning, and “elevate the

Lonni credits Thayer Drama teacher Mr.

joy quotient,” Lonni raised money and

Butler with helping inspire some of that

in-kind gifts for the model project and then

confidence (and acting ability) she uses now

“Changing lives is what moves me,” she

enlisted the design firm 2 x 4 and illustrator

in her job.

says. “Design plays a lead role in my work.

It sets the stage from which other things

Christoph Niemann to create a wraparound 5,000-square-foot black and white mural,

“There were people that had a great impact

art gallery, and coloring book. She also

on me because they believed in me, and

developed a Mural Activation Guide for the

Mr. Butler was one of those people,” she

staff. “To get the kids talking, thinking, and

says. “He’s always in my head. I take him

having fun we gave them a playground that

wherever I go.”

just happens to be on a wall,” she said. “I’ve used it for everything from fake campfires

Lonni’s mother worked as a teacher, and

– where we tell stories to the animals – to

was also a big inspiration. Looking back

donning ourselves in capes and masks and

she says her time working in the theater

going on secret missions. At the same time,

with Mr. Butler and working with children

Revamped nursery for the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS)

Overhauled public elementary school library for the NYC Department of Education (DOE)

can grow.”

FROM THE 1976 BLACK & ORANGE Glee Club, Latin Club, Drama, Fall Tennis, Prologue, Girls’ Athletic Association (GAA), Tennis

New cafeteria of juvenile probation center for the NYC Department of Probation (DOP)

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

19

30 YEARS OF IMPACTFUL

GENEROSITY

Marilyn Legg P ’88 and a three decade long Holiday Toy Drive tradition Story by Paul W. Kahn

The over 550 wrapped gifts piled high in the

At a late-November Monday Morning Meet-

At the end of the meeting, Marilyn walked up to

Brickyard each December is indeed a sight to

ing, members from three organizations directly

the podium to address the student body and kick

behold. Thayer’s Holiday Toy Drive provides gifts

helped by the Holiday Drive addressed the

off the 30th Thayer Holiday Toy Drive. “You are

to children and adolescents from a number of

Upper School in the CFA. Angela Goosen and

special people, very special. We all know that we

local organizations. This annual tradition had its

Janet Widdop from Head Start shared how

have much to be thankful for as we approach

genesis with Marilyn Legg P ’88.

they wished students could see the faces of the

Thanksgiving day, and we have many blessings.

children when they received their gifts. “We’ve

The bottom of that blessing now is you, and

had parents that say ‘I never had a child receive a

what you give so graciously, not just to yourself,

book before.’”

to your family, your loved ones, but to people

“Back in 1987, I received a phone call from a Thayer alum, a minister here in Braintree, who needed a helping hand with a social worker who

Kathy Lafferty, the Executive Director of the

she recalls. “He asked me if I thought Thayer

South Boston Neighborhood House spoke how

Academy could lend a hand. I said, ‘Absolutely.

44% of children living in South Boston are living

She concluded her remarks by asking everyone

Bring it on.’”

in deep poverty, and the impact that the holiday

to follow her lead. “I’m gonna ask that you raise

presents have on the families she serves.

your right hand and put it on your left shoulder

Indeed, those 50 names were quickly taken up by students. “I knew then that we were going

Andrea Brodeau, from the Department of Chil-

to have a program on our hands that would be

dren & Families, spoke about the impact on ado-

successful,” said Legg. Thirty years later, the

lescents in particular, then introduced a Braintree

program has had tremendous local impact. “As of

resident name Krysta, now a senior at a local

last year,” she beams, “we have brought smiles to

university, who spoke eloquently and emotional-

over 14,000 young people on the South Shore!”

ly about the how the holiday gifts made her feel loved when she was a young teenager in need.

20

you don’t even know, as was shared so beautifully

was working with 50 children that needed gifts,”

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

by these ladies sitting up here on stage.”

and then your left on your right shoulder. You’re gonna squeeze once, squeeze twice. The first is a hug from that child that you are going to bring magic and joy to. The second one is from me, Mrs. Legg, because you are such terrific young kids.”

A CALL TO SERVE

Faculty Member Allison Garnsey on serving with the National Guard Story by Rebecca Delaney Allison, with her wife, Mallory

When Upper School Science teacher Allison Garnsey moved north

“It was great exposure, I learned a lot and I got through it,” she

five years ago from her hometown of Boca Raton to start her career

says. After her training in OCS is complete she’s interested in

teaching science, she was happy with her new life, but she couldn’t

serving as an officer in the field of engineering, military police or

shake the feeling that there was something more. “I moved here,

field artillery. “Something with a little more action,” she says.

and I have a great job, a great partner, we just bought a house, but I still felt like something was missing,” she says. “I had always had

Her weekend trainings at Camp Edwards can vary. “Sometimes it’s

an interest in serving in the military,” she says. “And I thought, ‘it’s

looking at PowerPoints, and sometimes it’s dragging your friend

now or never.’”

through the mud,” says Allison, describing a drill called “planting corn” which involves crawling through the mud with someone

So at age 27 Allison joined the National Guard, attending trainings

lying on the ground, holding onto your neck. “They try to destroy

at Fort Edwards in Bourne, and ultimately joining the Officer

you and make you quit. It’s worse than bootcamp.”

Candidate School (OCS) — an 18-month, intense leadership training program to become a commissioned officer in the National

But despite the grueling training, she says the decision to join the

Guard. She went to boot camp in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri

National Guard was the right one. “You’re always training to be

for 11 weeks over the summer her first year and now goes to OCS

ready — we are ready to serve whenever the Governor needs us

training one weekend a month.

and we can be deployed internationally,” she says. “I’ve always been service oriented.”

Allison (front row, far right) at Officer Candidate School

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

21

MADAME PRESIDENT President of the Boston Branch of the NAACP Tanisha Sullivan ’92 Story by Rebecca Delaney

President of the Boston branch of the NAACP, Tanisha Sullivan ’92, has a long history with the civil rights organization. As a child Sullivan was an annual speaker at the Brockton NAACP branch’s Martin Luther King breakfast.

“The president of the Brockton Branch of the NAACP knew me and took an interest in me. She was one of a few women in the state to serve as president of a branch. She tried to expose me to the NAACP by inviting me to have a speaking role at branch activities,” recalls Tanisha.

Tanisha at the Women’s March in Boston

As she got older she remained involved in the NAACP as a vo-

experience that really helped deepen my understanding of the

calist in the group’s Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and

complex issues that exist in education today.”

Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO)--a program designed to encourage high academic and cultural achievement among African-American

Tanisha is focusing the Branch on three key areas: education, eco-

high school students.

nomic development, and criminal justice and policing. “I was very fortunate to attend Thayer, but the reality is I attended Thayer be-

Later, as an adult, a colleague was running to become the pres-

cause the public schools in my city at the time could not offer the

ident of the Boston branch and he asked for Tanisha’s help. “I

resources I had access to at Thayer,” she explains. “I believe every

helped him run, and he won, so for the duration of his tenure I

child should have access to a high quality education, so working

served as an advisor to him,” she says.

on educational equity issues to help improve public education is a personal passion.”

Today, that experience is paying off as Tanisha is leading the Boston branch of the NAACP. The position is volunteer— she works

She also plans to tackle the racial wealth gap by promoting and

as an attorney for a pharmaceutical company in the Boston area.

supporting minority and women-owned businesses in Boston.

Both positions require a demanding schedule, but the NAACP

“The data shows that people of color have less wealth in the

role is one Tanisha believes in. “I agreed to serve in this position

city of Boston than white people,” she says. “Supporting poli-

because I’ve always been deeply passionate about issues of social

cies seeking to address the racial wealth gap, by helping people

justice and civil rights, and specifically interested in racial justice

grow their businesses or gain access to meaningful work and the

work,” she says. “Working with the NAACP provides me with an

training they need, is an important priority for the neighborhoods

opportunity to tackle those issues.”

we serve.”

Before taking on the role of president, Tanisha took a break from

During her tenure the Branch has continued to call on the city to

corporate law in 2013 and for two years worked as chief equity

implement a body-camera program in its police force. “I believe

officer for the Boston Public Schools. “In my role, I was responsi-

that healthy and safe communities are vital and enable people

ble for helping the district address issues of racial discrimination

to fully benefit from all that a city has to offer. So regardless of

and for the development of strategies to ensure that the policies

whether we’re talking about education, or we’re talking about

and practices of the district were aligned with its racial equity

business, if the community doesn’t feel safe, then it presents all

goals. This represented a shift in the focus of the office, to be

other types of issues. Body cameras help support safe communi-

more focused on identifying systemic barriers to achievement for

ties.”

black and Latino students specifically,” she says. “Working with and on behalf of students and families was a great honor and an

22

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

January 31, 2018

Diversity Day

Thayer’s Upper School has a special day scheduled for Wednesday, January 31, 2018, which will be devoted to a multi-faceted exploration of and sharing about the factors that shape identity, plus the challenges and benefits that emerge from embracing diversity.

After Thayer Tanisha attended the University

“When I agreed to take on this role I never

of Virginia for undergrad, and Boston Col-

imagined that we would be at the point we

lege for law school and her MBA. At Thayer

are as a country, talking about the racial

she was active in OMEGA (Organization for

justice issues that we’re talking about,” she

Minority Enrichment, Growth & Awareness),

says. “The social climate in this country

the arts, and Community Council. She credits

is impacting what we are experiencing in

Thayer for encouraging her in the arts and

Greater Boston—from the positive work that

developing her leadership skills. “I was able

emerged as a result of the Women’s March

to develop and sharpen my leadership skills

to the challenges we faced in response to the

at Thayer, and when I went to UVA, I ran for

marches in Charlottesville. This has been a

and was elected to a university-wide student

year of awakening for many, and has sparked

council position. The first woman of color to

even greater interest in issues of racial jus-

hold the position. The support and encour-

tice,” she says.

agement I received at Thayer as it relates to my leadership abilities helped provide me

“The decisions we make in the NAACP

with the belief that I could not only run for

impact people’s lives, so every decision that

the position but win.”

we make, every program that we support, every policy proposal we issue, we do not

Her experience at Thayer now shapes her

take those actions lightly,” she adds. “We are

work with the NAACP. “At Thayer, I had

people focused. And so far, I believe that we

access to the resources that a young person

are moving in the right direction.”

The day is being planned by Jenn Welch, TA’s newly appointed Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity, along with other faculty members on the Diversity/Inclusion Committee, as well as student Board members of OMEGA. Upper School students will choose two workshops from a palette of 30-35 faculty-led options, each session examining a facet of how and why we might forge unity in diversity.

Thayer is hosting two guests, both of whom will address our Upper School community and participate in some of the workshop sessions.

Thayer alumna Tanisha Sullivan ’92, the newly appointed President of Boston’s office of the NAACP, will speak about her journey from Thayer student to activist / administrator, and some of the issues and challenges she tackles in her work.

Vishavjit Singh is a New Yorker, a cartoonist and a teacher, a brave man who—bearded, turbaned, and fully-costumed—makes a practice of engaging with strangers in the streets as the expectation-busting “Sikh Captain America,” inviting impromptu reactions, questions, dialogue, and... some opening of the brain. And heart.

And so the work that I do now in the educa-

We have high hopes and expectations for this day. An Upper School-wide “closer look” at the proverbial “American Bouillabaisse” — all the flavors we bring, and add, and encounter — and what we might learn better to appreciate.

tion front is really about trying to make sure

- Jim King P ’01, ’04, ’06

should have access to in an academic setting.

THAYER ENGLISH FACULTY

that other children have those same opportunities.”

Tanisha started her two-year term as president in December of 2016 and admits that it’s an important time to hold the role.

FROM THE 1992 BLACK & ORANGE Black & Orange, Class Officer, OMEGA, Drama, TA Singers, Tour Guide, Big Sister

As part of the Middle School Diversity Day, Middle School students will be celebrating Jackie Robinson’s birthday and his impact on sports and society on Jan. 31. The program is part of a Boston Red Sox’s initiative that aims to promote inclusion.

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

23

LOOKING BACK WITH PRIDE

Jack Couture ’52 remembers life in the Navy Story by Craig Salters ’86

(Retired) USN Commander Jack Couture ’52 has two homes that he loves: Coronado, California, and the United States Navy.

“Coronado is across the bridge from San Diego,” says Couture. “When I got here, it was a ferry ride from San Diego.”

That would be 1957, the year the Randolph native, Tufts University graduate, and NROTC student received his orders for Underwater Demolition Training (UDT).

He married his Thayer Academy sweetheart, Braintree native Donna Howland ’53, the same year.

Underwater Demolition Training units, sometimes referred to colloquially as “frogmen,” were elite special forces trained in “hydrographic reconnaissance,” meaning they were responsible for any waterway where amphibious forces might land. While not perfectly synonymous, UDTs are seen as the forerunners of today’s Navy SEALS (Sea, Air, and Land), a group created by President John F. Kennedy in 1962.

“Their (The Seals’) mission is more comprehensive,” explains Couture, who was given the career advice to “keep one toe in the water,” meaning to always stay true to the UDTs’ reconnaissance roots.

24

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Couture remembers the dreaded “log PT” where he and fellow recruits would have to handle a massive and unwieldy log. He also remembers how hard it was to navigate a seven-man raft out past the pounding Coronado surf without capsizing.

Jack Couture ’52 and his (now-deceased) first wife, Donna (Howland) Couture ’53, were sweethearts at Thayer. They raised two boys together. Couture said being away from his family for deployments was the hardest part of military life.

“It was about working together as a team,” says Couture, who retired in 1982. “That’s what it’s always about.”

Couture has so many feathers in his cap that he should consider buying an extra cap. His 26-year career in the Navy included five years on the US European Joint Task Force staff.

He served as chief staff officer to Navy Special Warfare Group One. He commanded UDT12 in 1969 during the Vietnam War. He served as director of SEAL training in 1978 and 1979.

His most memorable mission? Blowing up a canal 10 kilometers long somewhere north of Saigon in what was called the III Corps section of Vietnam.

His proudest achievement? Commanding UDT-12.

The toughest part? “Being away from Donna and the kids,” says Couture without hesitation.

Couture is proud of his service and offers this message to young men and women: “When I started in the Navy, there wasn’t a career program for what I wanted. But I loved what I was doing, especially the operational aspects. I had a great team and enjoyed working with great people.”

“So, my advice in that regard is to follow your gut.”

While Coronado is Couture’s adopted hometown, the Boston sense of humor is never far from the surface, especially when he’s asked his age.

“I’m older than Methuselah,” he offers.

That answer was later clarified to 82.

FROM THE 1952 BLACK & ORANGE Boys’ Glee Club, Ski Trip, Baseball, Football

A LEGACY OF SERVICE

Inspired by her family, Alegria De La Cruz ’93 fights for others Story by Rebecca Delaney

While three uncontrolled wildfires encroached closer to her home in Santa Rosa, CA, Alegria De La Cruz ’93 and her husband stayed up through the night, sleeping in shifts. “With all the windows drawn I was so afraid that if I fell asleep I wouldn’t hear sirens or evacuation orders, because we were so tired,” she says.

Brown to lead up a state agency dedicated to protecting farm workers labor rights, before being named Chief Deputy County Counsel two years ago.

From Thayer Alegria attended Yale for undergrad and returned to California for law school at the University of CaliforniaBerkeley.

Eventually Alegria’s family was evacuated— but she remained behind. As Chief Deputy County Counsel for Sonoma County, she needed to stay in the region and work in the emergency operations center.

Now that the fires have abated, she’s working long hours helping to share information with Spanish-speaking community members and to develop policy so residents can start to rebuild in the area. Adding a layer of complexity to the situation, she says, many families she helps are immigrant families who are not eligible for federal assistance or who are in danger of being deported if they disclose their information when they apply for assistance for their eligible family members or children.

It’s a daunting task, but Alegria hasn’t backed down from a challenge over the course of her legal career, which she began as a legal services attorney for farm workers in rural California. There she tackled various issues for her clients such as sexual harassment, pesticide exposure, and environmental justice. She then moved to the Center for Race, Poverty & the Environment and was later appointed by California Governor Jerry

She says she found comfort in her teachers at Thayer. “We had amazing educators who understood and knew where I was coming from. I really loved Thayer for its attention to details for kids who were underrepresented.”

Alegria grew up surrounded by activism. Her parents were farm worker organizers and moved from California to Boston in 1986 as part of the United Farm Workers’ of America campaign.

Her children are back in school after missing close to three weeks because of the wildfires, and she says she’s getting back to her regular duties as Chief Deputy County Counsel after working around the clock in the county’s emergency operations center. “The whole community has been through a trauma,” she says. “There will be stories to come for years.”

“I was raised in the civil rights movement, and I think you don’t walk away from an experience like that as a child not inspired by what you’ve seen around you,” she says. “It was definitely the culture of my family to be actively engaged in service of our community and organizing, and making sure that people knew the stories of the people that we were fighting for and whom we represented.”

Alegria started Thayer in the 8th grade, which she said was a “total culture shock.”

“I don’t think a lot of people understood where I came from or what my community was like,” she says. “I was one of the only Latina students.”

FROM THE 1993 BLACK & ORANGE High Honor Roll, Tiger’s Eye, Class Officer (President), Drama, Girls’ Athletic Association (GAA), Amnesty, Environmental Club, Soccer, Basketball, Lacrosse (captain)

PHOTO CAPTIONS TOP: Alegria speaking at one of many public venues TOP INSET: Alegria with California Governor Jerry Brown MIDDLE INSET: Alegria and children with Cesar Chavez

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

25

CYCLING FOR A CURE

Honoring a Son’s Legacy One Mile at a Time

Steven Branfman P ’00, ’02 and his Team Kermit raise millions to find a cure Story by Rebecca Delaney In that first weekend of August, while the rest of us are staking out the best spot on the beach, cyclists whiz across the state in packs or individually. Some start their journey in Sturbridge, some in Wellesley, and some in Bourne–but all of the cyclists started their Pan Mass Challenge (PMC) journey with a connection to someone with cancer, whether it’s a friend, parent or, in the case of Steven Branfman P ’00, ’02 – a beloved son.

To honor his son Jared Branfman ’00, who passed away in 2005 from brain and spinal cancer, Steven has participated in the PMC for 14 years and, with the help of his teammates, has raised $3.5 million for the Jared Branfman Sunflowers for Life Fund for Pediatric Brain and Spinal Cancer Research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. “That money goes to research the family of brain cancers that Jared had,” says Steven. “The money we have raised has funded research that has resulted in treatment that if Jared were alive today he would benefit from.”

Jared ’00 first became sick in the spring of 2003, after his junior year at the New York State College Of Ceramics at Alfred University. Emergency surgery removed an extremely complicated benign spinal tumor that left Jared paralyzed from the waist down. After extensive rehab over the summer, fall and early winter he was back on his feet. Then, in January of 2004, cancer was diagnosed with the discovery of multiple spinal tumors.

Jared’s treatment then began at the Jimmy Fund of the DFCI. The following summer, Steven’s friend and Thayer colleague Jim King P ’01, 04, 06, suggested he ride in the Pan Mass Challenge. Cycling has always been a passion for Steven and his family, Steven says.

“As soon as the kids were old enough to ride in children’s bicycle seats, we would spend the month of August doing family cyclotouring trips.”

Steven and his younger son, Adam ’02, along with Jim and other Thayer faculty, staff, and students rode the PMC as Team Thayer. Jared

26

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

and Steven’s wife Ellen volunteered on the course with Jared doing bicycle maintenance and repairs from his wheelchair.

In 2005 for their second PMC, Steven, Ellen, Jared and Adam formed Team Kermit. Steven explains; “Kermit was Jared’s favorite childhood character and Kermit’s mantra It’s not easy being green, became Jared’s to help him through the difficult cancer treatments.” Tragically, Jared lost his battle with cancer in 2005 after their second PMC and the ride became a way to honor his memory and legacy.

We’re all brought together by the common bond of having been affected by cancer and wanting to do good and being kind and generous and putting good deeds ahead of ourselves

Team Kermit 2017, which has grown to 68 riders, included Thayer faculty and staff Upper School Spanish teacher Allynn Lodge, Director of Health Services Kathy Cunningham, alumni Paul Monahan ’10, David Rudnick ’93, Craig Blaustein ’83, Michael Berger, husband of Debbie Rubin ’67, Erik Nelson, husband of Wendy Gordon ’86, former faculty member Steve Savage, and family and friends. Team Kermit also participates in the Livestrong Challenge-Austin, and the Boston Brain Tumor Ride, of which Steven is the CoChair, and the Ride for Angels.

Allynn says she was inspired to ride on Team Kermit after watching other Thayer faculty participate, and after volunteering one year she asked Steven if she could join. “I was inspired by how Steven and his family had chosen to honor Jared and continue his legacy by leading the team each year,” she says.

Though the full PMC is a 192 mile two-day event, some teams make it three days by doing a “Day Zero” ride on Friday. Team Kermit rides 74 miles from Steven’s house in Newton to Sturbridge. The morning of that ride, as she rode in their support car setting up rest stops for their ride, Allynn witnessed Steven’s passion for cycling and the PMC. “Steven is a complete beast,” she says.

Steven says Thayer has been a tremendous source of support over the years. “The support from the Thayer community goes beyond supporting our PMC, it goes beyond the Community Council making a substantial donation each year, it goes beyond individual faculty and staff making donations,” he says.

“The Thayer community has been a family all the time, and not just when Jared got sick.

Thayer has been, and continues to be such an important part of my life and my family’s life.”

In 2007, two years after Jared passed away, the Jared Branfman Sculpture Garden, located on the lawn outside Southworth Library, was dedicated. The sculpture was a gift from alumni, parents, friends, and the Class of 2007 Senior Legacy.

Team Kermit also plays an important role in Steven’s life--he personally meets with each person interested in joining the team, explaining the team’s origin and message, to ensure they have a connection. “We’re all brought together by the common bond of having been affected by cancer and wanting to do good and being kind and generous and putting good deeds ahead of ourselves,” he says.

Ultimately, Team Kermit reflects Jared’s legacy of helping people. “When Jared went to the Jimmy Fund for his treatments the first thing he wanted to do was to visit with the little kids who were there and play with them and make them feel better,” says Steven. “That’s all he wanted to do -- to help people and that’s his legacy. Our team is carrying on that legacy.

It’s rewarding and joyful knowing our money is making a huge difference in the fight against cancer.”

Branfman leading the group with their distinctive Kermit helmets

The 2017 PMC team

Branfman with Jared in 2005.

Featuring 68 riders, including Thayer faculty and staff Upper School Spanish teacher Allynn Lodge, Director of Health Services Kathy Cunningham P ’07, ’10, alumni Paul Monahan ’10, David Rudnick ’93, Craig Blaustein ’83, Michael Berger (husband of Debbie Rubin ’67), Erik Nelson (husband of Wendy Gordon ’86), former faculty member Steve Savage, and family and friends Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

27

No one doubts that Brendan McDonough ’87 P ’18, ’22 is a can-do guy. But those who knew the always bold, sometimes brash McDonough back in the day might be gobsmacked to find out what he’s actually been doing.

And that’s just fine, says McDonough, who admits to being a little surprised himself at the wonderfully winding roads life has taken him down.

“I was given the gift of a child with special needs,” explains McDonough, referring to his daughter, Sophia Rose, who was born with Down syndrome. “When Sophie Ro was born, I was given a new set of eyes.”

FOUNDING FATHER For Dorchester’s Brendan McDonough ’87 P ’18, ’22 it’s not about credit but community Story by Craig Salters ’86

McDonough, whose day job is partner at Golden Tree Asset Management, began volunteering with Dorchester Pop Warner youth football shortly after graduating from the University of Rochester.

In 1996, he founded Project DEEP (Dorchester Educational Enrichment Program) to help neighborhood kids reach their academic potential. Now in its third decade, the program has seen great success.

However, in the late 2000s McDonough also founded Project BIND (Boston Inclusion Network for Disabilities), a program of the Boys and Girls Club of Dorchester.

Then he founded the Challenger Division of Savin Hill Little League, an outreach effort that is now proudly partnered with the Martin Richard Foundation.

And those programs, he admits, are far more close-to-home.

McDonough volunteering with the Challenger Division of the Savin Hill Little League

28

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

“Project DEEP was done with no personal motivation,” he says. “I just wanted to help local kids and it sort of evolved.”

“But Project BIND and Challenger Baseball came about because of Sophie Ro.”

Both initiatives are thriving. In fact, Brendan's son Michael, a Thayer senior, has done such yeoman's work recruiting classmates as volunteer buddies that the Challenger program has expanded to sports like soccer, swimming, and basketball.

Its focus, though, is still baseball, where buddies help those with Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other conditions play a two-inning game.

“Every kid has a position and every kid gets to bat,” says McDonough.

McDonough and his wife, Luisa, have four children. In addition to Michael and Sophia, there is Declan and Dylan, an eighth grader at Thayer Middle School.

And, in addition to being both a Thayer parent and alumnus, McDonough is a former teacher at Thayer Middle School and current member of the school's Board of Trustees.

When asked about his accomplishments, McDonough is quick to place the credit elsewhere (again, a sea change from the 1980s when the ball seemed to be glued to McDonough’s hand during pick-up basketball games with classmates). He credits Thayer Director of Admissions Jon White P ’09, ’11, ’15 for believing in Project DEEP when it needed it most. He credits the Boys and Girls Club of Dorchester and the Martin Richard Foundation for their unwavering support. He credits his family, friends, and the tight-knit neighborhood of Dorchester for “having my back from Day One.” And, most of all, he credits his daughter for giving his worldview a Randy “Macho Man” Savage Top Rope Elbow Drop and letting him see all the many ways there are to become a community.

“It's all because of Sophie Ro,” he says.

Thayer ARTS

Madeleine Castanon ’18 - Acrylic

Cheryl Xue ’19 - Conté Crayon

A fall semester sampling of work from Thayer student artists under the guidance of Karen Koskores P ’10, ’13, showing off a range of artistry and creativity in acrylic, charcoal, ink doodling, Conté crayon, and watercolor.

Julia Guidone ’20 - Pen & Ink

Maria Theodore ’19 - Watercolor Christina Nwokeji ’20 - Charcoal

Cheryl Xe ’18 Comte Crayon Michael Nessralla ’20 - Charcoal

Caitlyn Marat ’18 - Charcoal

Erika Plante ’20 - Charcoal Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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George Rowe ’20

Maggie Skillman ’18

Teaching photography for me is not about camera skills and technical abilities. Instead, it is about teaching students how to see. In this day and age of visual bombardment, images are more important than ever. Students are taught rules of composition and how to communicate ideas and feelings without using words.

Not only do their Instagram feeds become more interesting, they finish class with a clear understanding of their personal vision, which is a skill they will use for the rest of their lives.

- Thayer Photography Teacher Nicki Pardo Emily Smith ’18 30

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Thayer ARTS

Michael Nessralla ’20 Michaela Markwart ’18

Will Fitzpatrick ’18

Cameron Bridge ’18

Izzy Nash ’20

Sabrina Zeghibe ’19 Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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DIRECTOR’S NOTE FROM PIPPIN

BY KELLY HINES P ’19, ’21

Our fall musicals are always chosen to feature our large ensemble composed of field hockey players, theatre kids, varsity football and soccer athletes, track stars, scenic artists, scientists, hockey players, mathletes, student leaders…a full representative of our Thayer community, and a team built from all teams. It is astounding to watch kids dash in from the soccer field and the football field and the track and pour their hearts into rehearsals day after day while balancing homework and friendships and family life. They do it with so much joy and enthusiasm, and we could not be more proud of their dedication and support of one another.

Loosely based on the story of King Charlemagne’s son, Pippin is the story of a young man’s search for identity and his place in the world. A troupe of theatrical players leads Pippin through many life experiences in order to manipulate him into creating their “Grand Finale.” On the surface a traditional musical with spectacular ensemble dance numbers in the Fosse style, Pippin has, at its heart, a thoughtful commentary on what it means to be extraordinary and the lengths to which people will go to reach their own potential. While our steampunk, timeless, stage-world is fanciful, the truth of this tale is not - we are all subject to outside forces that attempt to pull us into a story not of our own making. Pippin learns that we must tie ourselves to one another, and follow our own true north, to be free. We all hope our children will do the same.

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

Thayer ARTS

Jake Comeau ’18, as Pippin sings, “With You” - with (L-R) Effie You ’19, Aimee Matos ’20, Kendall Bryant ’20, Korina Farwell ’19, Madeleine Castanon ’18

Felisha Cabral ’18, Jack Manning ’18, & Amelia Browne ’18 at the Chapel at Arles

“Average, Ordinary Kind of Woman:” Lauren Bennett ’18 as Catherine, with (L-R) Crea Dow ’18, Abby Browne ’19, Caitlin Caulfield ’20, and Kelsey Sullivan ’18

Hanna Stern ’18 as Berthe with the ensemble in “Just No Time At All”

/ Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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Annie THAYER ACADEMY MIDDLE SCHOOL PERFORMING ARTS PROUDLY PRESENTS....

y

Directed By: Tara Corcoran ’88, P ’19

1 November 20, 2017 @ 7pm Thompson Hall, Thayer Middle School

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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Thayer MIDDLE SCHOOL ARTS

Thayer Middle School was thrilled to present the musical, “ANNIE, JR.”, for parents and students alike before the recent Thanksgiving break. Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Awardwinning Best Musical, “Annie

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Jr.” features everyone’s favorite little redhead in her very first adventure. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City.

Tara Corcoran ’88 Middle School Theater Director

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Marguerite Greene ’23 as Annie

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The full cast of Annie

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Brynn Cozier ’24 as Tessie

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Ryker Gibson ’22 as Oliver Warbucks

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Tess Meyers ’23 as Miss Hannigan

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Ella Lantigua ’23 as one of the orphans

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Julia Pickel ’22 as Molly

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Alena Mulhern ’23 as one of the orphans

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Gabby Guerrero ’24

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Clare Hayes ’24

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Ben Baker ’24

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Katelyn Sentnor ’24

Brynn Crozier ’24

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Jake Crowley ’24

greek myt h o lo gy skits N OVEMBER 16, 2017 MS. COREY’S CLASS

LETO

Narrator: Andrew Garelick Narrator: Jack Shepherd Narrator: Courtney Tucker Narrator: Niamh Mannion Hera: Clare Hayes Ilithyia: Ella Barry Iris: Katie Finnegan Leto: Merritt Grillo Poseidon: Ryan Noreke Zeus: Chase Lukowski

Dionysus Narrator: Katie Finnegan Narrator: Chloe Pevarnek Narrator: Niamh Mannion Narrator: Arianna Williams Ariadne: Merritt Grillo Dionysus: Mark Brewster Dodona: Ella Barry Zeus: Chase Lukowski Hermes: Ryan Noreke Semele: Courtney Tucker Hera: Clare Hayes Pirate: Jack Shepherd Pirate: Andrew Garelick

CO RE Y

T H AY E R A C A D E M Y M I D D L E S C H O O L

MR. GHIDEN’S CLASS

MR. TOUSSAINT’S CLASS

ARIAD NE

HERMES

Narrator: Callum Dasco Narrator: Jonathan Lan Narrator: Eli Lukens Narrator: Katelyn Sentnor Daedalus: Martin Nyagilo Theseus: Jake Crowley King Minos: Gabby Guerrero Ariadne: Jenny Ayles Dionysus: Sebastian Keleher Athenian: Elise Reinhard

Narrator: Maggie Doyle Narrator: Omar Naanaa Narrator: Belle Loschiavo Narrator: Sen Wallace Maia: Aly Mantville Zeus: Colin Kenney Apollo: Matthew McDonough Hera: Kelly Costello Hermes: Ben Baker

ATHENA

prometheus & Pandora

Narrator: Sen Wallace Narrator: Matthew McDonough Narrator: Aly Mantville Narrator: Colin Kenney Zeus: Omar Naanaa Metis: Lauren Grattan Hephaestus: Annie Shactman Arachne: Jane Richard Athena: Kelly Costello Poseidon: Zach Dixon

Narrator: Maxie Baker Narrator: Grace Coughlin Narrator: Elise Reinhard Narrator: Abigail Greenough Zeus: Callum Dasco Epimetheus: Sebastian Keleher Prometheus: Eli Lukens Pandora: Katelyn Sentnor Hephaestus: Jonathan Lan Hercules: Gabby Guerrero

G HI D E N

TO U S S A I N T

TAR A CO RCO R AN

MS. SOULE’S CLASS

DEMETER & PERSEPH ONE

Narrator: Liam Beagan Narrator: Bella Marinilli Narrator Calin Ocnean-Sanchez Narrator: Erin Fleming Hades: Ollie Seed Triptolemus: Adam Plante Persephone: Hannah Gondelman Metaneirus: Jordy McNally Zeus: Dionysios Lefas Demeter: Brynn Crozier Iris: Sadie Smith

Artemis & Niobe Narrator: Brynn Crozier Narrator: Aysa Haggerty Narrator: Jordy McNally Narrator: Hannah Gondelman Artemis: Sadie Smith Zeus: Liam Beagan Leto: Bella Marinilli Actaeon: Ollie Seed Apollo: Dionysios Lefas Niobe: Erin Fleming

SO ULE

’88 P’19

DIRECTOR

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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THE ART OF FRIENDSHIP William Ross Searle P ’85, ’87 & Ted Polomis ’80 Gallery exhibit highlights painters with deep TA roots Story by Craig Salters ’86

William Ross Searle P ’85, ’87 taught thousands of students in his 36 years as an art teacher at Thayer Academy, and he remembers fondly those who possessed real artistic talent. All of them.

“It was a very democratic philosophy,” Searle says of his teaching style.

“I did not separate the ’gifted’ or ’prize’ students from the average students. Everybody has talent, so everybody can be an artist.”

One student, Ted Polomis ’80, found his artistic spark in Searle’s classroom. He also found a mentor and friend. Today, Bill and Ted’s excellent adventure comprises an artistic conversation that began in the days of designer jeans and continues in these days of designer genes.

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

This past fall, the two showcased their work in a September-October exhibit at Thayer Gallery.

“I call him Obi-Wan,” says Polomis in a soft-spoken voice reminiscent of his former teacher. “I love him. He’s always been there for me. He’s always encouraged me.”

Like most great friendships, this one started with a Federation vessel.

“Ted is a Star Trek fan, and he loved drawing all things Star Trek,” Searle recalls. “He did this very large painting of the Starship Enterprise. He would go up to it and point to a part of the ship and say, ’This is where the swimming pool is.’ He was so into it. He did a beautiful job.”

Polomis laughs at the memory. “Oh, I was there (in Searle’s art room) all the time. I’d keep changing it, keep changing the background.”

Thayer GALLERY HIGHLIGHT teachers,” recalls Searle. “His name was Ted Meinelt.”

Polomis credits Searle for introducing the young artist to acrylics and oils. Searle also encouraged Polomis to attend Rhode Island School of Design, where he earned his B.F.A. degree.

Searle offers two memories of his former teacher: Meinelt used to paint camouflage on tanks for the war effort, and he gave prizes to the young Searle for his drawings.

“He was definitely a role model,” says Searle.

“He loved what he was doing. He lived well into his 90s in a house in West Tisbury, but he died a few years ago. We remained friends all our lives.”

As a boy, Searle spent most of his time -- alone or with friends -- exploring the ponds, open spaces, and shores of the island he loves. Decades later, it still informs his work.

Most importantly, Polomis says, Searle never tried to steer his students in one particular direction.

“He never pushed me, but he was always there if I needed something,” Polomis explains. “A lot of teachers only want to teach how they do it, but he wants the students to find their own voices.”

And that, Searle says, is the point.

“It’s a joyful experience to see a youngster achieve and discover their own talents suddenly,” says Searle.

“They look at themselves differently.”

Searle remembers one student who sort of “woke up” after being told that he did, indeed, have special drawing ability. Later, the student’s family informed Searle that the young man had turned away from a rough crowd, one which included gang members, because he could express himself artistically.

“That’s an extreme situation, but I remember it quite well,” the veteran teacher says. “We have one of his pieces, the one he did for his senior project, hanging in the walls of the Main Building to this day.”

A 10th-generation native of Martha’s Vineyard, Searle knows exactly when he “woke up” to the idea of being an artist: Grade 4 at The Edgartown School.

“A male teacher walked in, and this was during World War II when we only had female

“I feel it’s necessary to paint my experience as a young child and it’s all things Vineyard,” he says. “What I paint is the New England coastline, primarily the Vineyard and Cape Cod, occasionally Maine.”

Like his mentor, Polomis calls himself a realist painter. “I would say it’s classical realism, stilllife,” he says. “I really like doing object studies, especially beautiful shapes, the light...”

Polomis’s work at the gallery exhibit included still-life paintings of colored bottles, gourds, Native American pots, and even a white Vespa scooter. He’s also earned quite a reputation for his paintings of cartoon characters and antique toys.

“One night, I just grabbed two onions and a garlic, and I said, ’I’m painting this!’” says Polomis. “I put it in front of me and painted until 2 a.m. In the morning, (my wife) Dorothy said, ’I love it.’”

Searle is proud of his former student but not shocked by his success. He says that, years ago, he and his wife bought one of Polomis’s paintings at a show in the North End of Boston.

That painting still hangs in Searle’s Mashpee studio.

“That (earlier) painting is very different from what Ted does now, but Ted’s capacity is to search and reach out in any direction he wants.

He’s chosen this direction, and it doesn’t surprise me.”

“I see Ted’s heart and soul in his paintings.

When I look at them, I see excellent work done by a mature artist who, demonstrably, has something to say. It’s right there in front of you.”

Searle, whose paintings dot the Thayer campus from the library to the gym to practically everywhere else, is then asked if he can see his heart and soul in his own work. He stares off for a moment. He pauses one, two, three beats before returning his gaze to the interviewer. He nods.

“There's an honesty to an artist’s effort that reveals itself in the work.”

Polomis acknowledges frustration during his early years as a painter — “I wanted to paint like John Singer Sargent, but I can’t do it,” he admits — and says he even hated still-life painting.

He was never interested in the subject matter and felt even further removed working from photographs. Then he had his “Eureka” moment.

EDITOR’S NOTE: SADLY, BILL SEARLE PASSED AWAY ON NOVEMBER 25, AFTER THIS PIECE WAS WRITTEN. PLEASE SEE HIS OBITUARY ON PAGE 60 AND A REMEMBRANCE BY A FORMER STUDENT ON PAGE 66.

UPCOMING EXHIBITS

Thayer Gallery

201 7 201 8

Thayer

Art Faculty MIXED MEDIA

JAN 8 - FEB 2

Lisa Floryshak CERAMICS

FEB 6 - MAR 8

Braintree Art Association

Thayer

Student Art

MIXED MEDIA

MIXED MEDIA

MAR 31 - APR 26

MAY 7 - MAY 23

For more information on all Gallery exhibits, visit www.thayer.org/gallery

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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TWO TEAMS:

GIRLS VARSITY SOCCER

The Varsity Girls Soccer team poses with the trophy following their dramatic championship game victory in overtime

Thayer girls soccer beat Pomfret School in dramatic fashion to win the Class B New England Championship—a first for girls soccer. Eighth grader Ally Sentnor ’22 scored Thayer’s first goal off of a corner kick in the first half, and Pomfret answered back, tying the game 1-1. The teams played two 10-minute overtime periods, and Brittany Raphino ’19 scored the winning goal.

“The championship match against Pomfret was an incredible game,” said Coach Nick Rugnetta ’07. “Marlie Dennett ’18 had a great game in goal.

She made a couple great saves and did very well coming off her line when needed,”said Rugnetta. “Gabby Grattan ’20 and Kristyn Moran ’20 had great games in the center back, making big tackles and clearances when

Coach Nick Rugnetta ’07 proudly receives the NEPSAC Trophy.

needed. Payton Bridge ’20, Mackenzie Brewster ’19 and Maddie DeLuca ’20 all stepped up and had big games and contributions for us in the back line.

Ally Deegan and Ciara Sage were the engines in our midfield and worked so hard to win tackles, make passes and get our attack started when we won the ball. They were tough as nails. Eden Donnellan ’21, Mikaila Kitchen ’21, and Maddie Broderick ’20 all played big roles in the game. They all had big games in our attack, and were dangerous taking players on and creating chances for us to score.”

ALL SOCCER PHOTOS TAKEN BY: Nadine Steffan P ’18, mother of team co-captain Emma Steffan ’18.

To see the TASN video interview with three members of the Varsity Girls Soccer Team, please visit: www.thayer.org/news/soccerchamps 38

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Eighth grader Ally Sentnor ’22 passes the ball during the match; Sentnor would score the first goal of the championship game.

TWO CHAMPIONSHIPS

The 2017 Girls Varsity Cross Country Team

Thayer ATHLETICS

GIRLS VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY At the New England Championship Cross Country meet held at Berkshire School, Thayer’s girls cross-country team won its fourth straight New England Championship (Thayer’s boys team finished 4th).

Cassie Kearney ’18 led the way, winning the girls race. She also won the ISL meet for the third time. A 3-time Boston Globe All Scholastic, she has been the ISL cross-country MVP for 3 years. She led an impressive team that included Katherine Stanwood ’18 (2-time New England

Cross Country coaches Jeff Browne P ’04, ’05 and Nellie Brennan Hall with the three senior captains, (L-R) Annie Huycke ’18, Cassie Kearney ’18, and Katherine Stanwood ’18. All three were New England champions all four years at Thayer!

All Star invitational winner, 3-time Patriot ledger All Scholastic), Annie Huycke ’18, and Lilly Bradley ’21, all who were also named All League for 2017, and new-comer Meg Dugan ’22 (8th Grade) who was named All League Honorable Mention. Cassie, Katherine, Annie, and Meg were also named All New England.

“This team was such a pleasure to work with,” said girls Head Coach Jeff Browne P ’04, ’05. “They are such an awesome combination of talent, hard work and great personalities that really supported each other all season. We will really miss the three seniors—Cassie, Katherine, and Annie—next year.”

Cassie Kearney ’18 crosses the finish line in first placea at the ISLs.

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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Thayer ATHLETICS

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Co-captain Izzy Gomes ’19 prepares to set the volleyball as Cassie Davidson ’21 approaches the net during a Homecoming game match.

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Max Storch ’18 runs towards an opening provided by a block by Drew Callahan ’18 during Homecoming (a 22-12 victory over Roxbury Latin).

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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Ilona Perry ’18 battles for the ball in a Varsity Field Hockey match.

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Nick Dawson ’18 races towards the finish line during a cross country meet.

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ISL All-League player Eoin O’Sullivan ’18 during a home game.

ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES

5TH ANNUAL ALUMNI BASKETBALL GAME FRONT ROW (L-R): Michael Tesauro ’17, Tom Logue ’12, Joeanna King McPherson ’03, Matthew Gilbert ’17, Ibrahim Durrani ’09 BACK ROW (L-R): Jose Edwards ’92, Rob Dixon ’79, Quilninious Randall ’98, Jude David ’06, Ayanna Hines ’90, Brandon Odom ’04, Kevin Kerr ’05, Mike Jones ’03, Billy O’Dwyer ’02, Richmond Pittman ’01, Nate Richman ’07

U P C O M I N G T H AY E R A LU M N I E V E N T S January February March April May June

- Thayer Art Faculty Show (Jan 8 - Feb 2 - Thayer Gallery; Reception Jan 25) - Valicenti Cup (Jan 26 - Warrior Arena - 6pm; Girls Varsity Hockey Game - 4:15pm) - Founders Day: A Day of Giving (Feb 5) - Red Sox Spring Training Game in Florida (Feb 23, JetBlue Park, Ft. Lauderdale, FL)

- Thayer Auction (Mar 2, Granite Links Golf Club)

- Professional Women’s Networking Event (April 5, State Street - 5:30pm)

- Reunion 2018 (3s and 8s - May 4-5) - General’s Open Golf Tournament & Tennis Event (May 14 - Black Rock Country Club)

- Commencement (Jun 9 @ 9am - note time change from previous years!)

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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The 19th annual General’s Council Reception was held in November at the Boston Public Library to recognize leadership donors to Thayer Academy.

The venue provided a magnificent backdrop to celebrate the importance of literature in a Thayer education.

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Kate Hayman (English Department Head) delivered heartfelt remarks about the importance of literature and writing in a Thayer education.

Jim King​P ’01, ’04, ’06 (English Faculty)​with​Deanna P ’20, ’22 (TAPA Executive Board) and Danya Abrams (Trustee) P ’20, ’22

Former Trustee Chair Paula Becker P ’12, ’14, Cassie Mahar ’12, and James Mahar​P ’12, ’14 Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Thayer’s honored guests were offered Art & Architecture tours of the beautiful Boston Public Library space.

Thayer GENERAL’S COUNCIL DINNER

Karen Koskores P ’10, ’13 (Gallery Director), Martha McNally P ’22, ’24, Paula Becker P ’12, ’14, Deb Budde P ’10, ’12, and Holly Joe P ’17, ’20

N ​ orman B. Leventhal Map Center - ​Jay Hanflig P ’16

Maureen Pace P ’19, ’21 (Trustee), Krista DiRico P ’18, ’18, ’23, Shannon Cashman P ’19, ’21, Jack DiRico​’76, P ’18, ’18, ’23, Christine Karnolt P ’21, ’23​, and Stephen Karnolt P ’21, ’23 Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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Sue Daylor P ’02, ’13, Bob Daylor P ’02, ’13 (Trustee), and Betty Bailey ’63 (former English Department Head)

Kenny Carberry ’08 (Alumni Board member), Kate Carberry, Allison Kent Trumbull ’00 (Alumni Board Member) and Rob Trumbull

The General’s Council

THAYER ACADEMY

ANNUAL FUND

GI V I NG L E V E L S the general’s council: Leadership Circle Sarah White Glover Society Anna Boynton Thompson Society Headmaster’s Circle Trustees’ Circle Founder’s Circle

$1,877–$2,999 $3,000–$4,999 $5,000–$9,999 $10,000–$24,999 $25,000–$49,999 $50,000+

young alumni leader: Up to 5th Reunion: 6-10th Reunion: 11-15th Reunion: 16-20th Reunion:

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

$50+ $100+ $250+ $750+

Donors who make annual gifts of $1,877 or more are recognized as members of Thayer’s General’s Council. Donors at this level are critically important to the success of Thayer’s fundraising efforts, providing philanthropic leadership that inspires donors at all levels to invest in Thayer. General’s Council donors are recognized in donor listings, receive specialized communications throughout the year, and are invited to exclusive events.

Young Alumni Leadership Donors

Consistent annual giving from our alumni not only helps to create a baseline for Thayer to set its philanthropic goals, but also demonstrates to others in our community the value our alumni place on their Thayer education. By making a donation alumni send a message that they remain part of the Thayer community and feel invested in the Academy’s future. With giving levels scaled according to the number of years since graduation, Thayer recognizes leadership gifts from alumni of all ages and offers alumni leadership donors all the benefits of membership in the General’s Council.

Thayer ALUMNI HIGHLIGHTS

At Homecoming 2017 this past October, Thayer honored three alumni who balanced both academics and high athletic achievement at the Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

DOUGLAS B. LALLY ’87

LT. COL.

MEGHAN MULLIN HARNEY ’96

FOOTBALL, HOCKEY, BASEBALL

SOCCER, BASKETBALL, LACROSSE

SOCCER, WRESTLING, LACROSSE

Meg was a star three-sport athlete during her time at Thayer. She was a soccer standout, playing varsity all four years and was named captain her senior season. She led her team in scoring her freshman year and was named All-League her freshman and junior seasons. Meghan was a three-year starter for the women’s basketball team where she was named All-League and team captain her junior and senior years. Senior year, Meg led her team to an ISL and New England Championship with an 18-0 record and was named ISL tournament MVP.

Doug was a three-sport standout athlete while at Thayer Academy.

Doug participated in soccer, wrestling, and was a member of the first boys lacrosse team at Thayer. Doug is among the few athletes who hold the honor of three-sport captains and three-sport MVPs. As a three-year center midfielder on Thayer’s varsity soccer team, Doug received Honorable Mention in the ISL All-League as a junior and ISL First Team AllLeague as a senior while serving as captain of the team. Doug completed his Thayer soccer career as the team’s MVP.

TERRENCE M. SLATTERY ’74 (RET.) Terry was a standout three-sport athlete during his time at Thayer Academy. He was a 4-time letterman in hockey and a 3-timer in football and baseball. Terry’s talent and teamwork helped his teams realize enormous successes, including the 1973 hockey team that won the Independent School League Championship, and was rated one of the top high school hockey teams in Massachusetts.

Terry captained the 1974 football team that achieved an undefeated and un-tied season and also won the Independent School League Football Championship.

To read the full news story on the 2017 Hall of Fame inductees, along with full bios of each, visit: www.thayer.org/HoF2017 Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

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CLASS NOTES: 1950s

CLASS NOTES A L L T H E L AT E S T N E W S F R O M T H E T H AY E R C O M M U N I T Y

Stacie Robarts ’01 with her father, Thayer Middle School science faculty member and Upper School coach Peter Robarts P ’01, ’04, ’06

CLASS OF

1950

CLASS OF

1952

Robert Mower ’50

Jack Couture ’52

Bob fondly remembers classmate Don Westman: “He was a low handicap golfer and an officer at the Pocasset Golf Club near his summer home on the water on Patuisset Island. We played a number of rounds of golf together there and in the West, particularly in and around Phoenix. I have a picture of us leaning on a fence, golf clubs in hand, at the course overlooking Death Valley in California.”

See the “For the Common Good” covering Jack’s service in the US Navy on p. 24.

Joanne Sacco Pugh ’50 Joanne is loving life in her beautiful apartment on Park Avenue in New York City and enjoys being a walk away from “everything.”

She loves seeing her children and grandchildren when she can. Her favorite hobby is painting. Joanne hopes to reconnect with some of her classmates who might live in the area as well.

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

CLASS OF

1954 Gleora Davis ’54 Gleora writes,“Trying to stay healthy in body and mind- I lost my daughter Jill to brain surgery two years ago - still trying to overcome the loss. Be well all - life is short and precious.”

CLASS OF

1959 Joyce DiBona ’59

Classmates Linda Claff Bailit ’59, Judy Grossman Molinksky ’59, Joyce DiBona ’59, Sally Donner Briers ’59, and Roz Ossen Loiter ’59 enjoy a summer outing on Cape Cod.

Joyce DiBona ’59 Joyce writes, “Congratulations to Class of ’59 for making the top 5 list of alumni classes having the highest level of participation of alumni giving (again). It’s a real tribute to the school that continues to excel and will be starting classes for the fifth grade once again in fall of 2018.”

Now that I’m totally revived (new word for retired), I am volunteering for a pedestrian advocacy group WalkBoston, participating on my condo board, and taking art classes at the Museum of Fine Arts. I was also asked to join the Alumni Board representing our class which is enjoyable and stimulating to be around Thayer’s bright young alums.

Please send news you’d like to share with our classmates! (See picture on other page)

CLASS OF

1962 Geoffrey Goodale ’62 Geoff has returned to Thayer to teach a Shakespeare class during the fall and an AP English class during the spring.

CLASS OF

1965 Cynthia Ciani Anderson ’65 Cynthia writes, “I have looked up Grace Bernan Hinrichs and visited her at her home, close by in Rockport. (On the first visit, last November, I was with Gail Williams Herson ’65.) I did not know Grace at Thayer, but wish I had! Last winter we ended up together in a poetry-writing group at Belfast Free Library. We have shared life stories, books, poems, and Thayer stories, over visits back and forth, and lunch outings.

I have celebrated my 70th birthday, which included a dinner for 19 at which there were six Thayerites in attendance (Eric Anderson ’62, Ruth Ciani Brower ’74, and ’65ers Gail Williams Herson, Liz Anderson, and Tommy Likos, plus me.) I have been a presenter at The Power of Words Conference, an annual event put on by the Transformative Language Arts Network. I have sailed on Eggamoggin Reach with Tommy Likos, on his boat, “Kolea.”

Ana Luisa.) I have discovered the poet/ philosopher David Whyte; and the teacher Parker Palmer--both of them by listening to the Krista Tippet NPR program, “On Being.” I have thought about Mike Ahearn ’65 countless times, and planned a couple of visits that ended up falling through. I am glad to hear from Peter Reynolds ’65 that he is a regular visitor.”

Jeffrey Burnett ’65 As Ken Dillon ’65 asked me, “Have you crossed the bar?" Indeed, I have joined many of you, and others to come, at the “70" milestone. Really? Aren't we Class of 1965? How is this happening? It's been fun keeping up on Facebook, email, and even telephone with classmate doings this year. Lois Hirshberg ’65 and Gail Herson ’65 stirring the sands of time on the Cape; David Saccone ’65 - ask him about being a 1st time grandad - he is clearly enjoying his new role; Bob & Barbara Alexander ’65 ever between Marshfield and Florida; Robert Mykle ’65 and his adventures in Spain, Amsterdam and more; renewed contact with Fred Lundfeldt ’65 and discovering we are both tin-can sailors, John Bacon ’65 joining us at TA ’65 Facebook site, and the annual saga of the turkey hunting adventures of Bruce Thayer ’65, Bob Wagner ’65, and Rick Aldrich ’65. (see photo below)

Bob Wagner ’65 and Bruce Thayer ’65 -see Jeffrey Burnett ’65

Good to know we're holding our own! See you all at our 55th, if not sooner.

Robert Mykle ’65 Robert was recently interviewed by PBS at his home in Florida for an upcoming series about the Everglades. Stayed tuned to PBS!

CLASS OF

1967 Reva Korim Castaline ’67 Tina McGuirk Lambroschino ’67, Betsy Foote Gersley ’67, and Reva Korim Castaline ’67 have spoken to a few classmates after their 50th Reunion, and they are planning to attend the Spring Training Red Sox game in Fort Myers, FL on Friday, February 23, 2018! Hope others will join us!

CLASS NOTES: 1950s-1960s

Ken Commoss ’59 and his wife Patty arrived stateside safely and are back in Marblehead. We had a fun lunch in Westport hearing about their adventure living abroad.

CLASS OF

1968 It’s your 50th Reunion Year!

MAY 4-5, 2018

Roger Sakolove ’68 Roger and Scotti Sakolove seem to be busier than ever in semi-retirement. Both have embarked on acting careers, including background work with Kelsey Grammer and Kristen Bell in an upcoming Netflix movie. (see photo below) Roger Sakolove ’68

Both are playing on community tennis teams. Roger is still a freelance copywriter, while Scotti claims to spend “four hours a month” in ad sales. See you at the 50th!

Christopher Tingus ’68

Chris writes, “Looking forward to our 50th!

Miss you guys! We all shared such wonderful years at Thayer!”

I have become a grandmother for the fourth time, with the birth of Beatriz Amapola Lang (who joins siblings Juanito, Xavi, and Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

47

CLASS NOTES: 1970s-1980s

CLASS OF

1974 Terrence Slattery ’74 Congratulations to Terry on his induction into Thayer’s Athletic Hall of Fame on October 21, 2017! (See photo and story on p. 45) At the Inductee Luncheon, Terry was joined by his wife, Cheryl, and two children, Tara and Terrence, his brother, Brian Slattery ’82, and other family. Terry lives in Hawaii.

CLASS OF

1976

Douglas Lally ’87

CLASS OF

1983 It’s your 35th Reunion Year!

MAY 4-5, 2018

Leif Tilden ’83 On July 22, 2017, Leif celebrated a loving union with Tatiana Roza in Irvine, CA. (See photo on p. 52)

CLASS OF

Brendan McDonough ’87 Sarah Collins ’85

See the “For the Common Good” profile covering Lonni’s design work in NYC on pp. 18-19.

Sarah is now working as a Country Sales Specialist: Morocco for Audley Travel. She spent a month traveling in Morocco earlier this year testing out recommendations she will make to clients for their personalized travel packages.

Whitney Tuthill Presutti ’85

1979 Johanna Gallivan Levy ’79 Johanna moved from Massachusetts to the DC area. She is now living in Alexandria, VA. CLASS OF

1981 Rick Vazza ’81 Rick’s son, Rick Vazza ’07, married Whitney Washousky on June 17, 2017 at the Hall of Springs in Saratoga, NY. (See photo on p.

53)

Doug is living in Marion, MA with his wife, Martha, and five children. Doug and Martha are also co-owners of Bay State Gymnastics in North Dartmouth, MA.

1985

Lonni Tanner ’76

CLASS OF

Congratulations to Doug on his induction into Thayer's Hall of Fame on October 21, 2017! Doug’s parents Judy and Bob Lally P ’85, ’86, ’86, ’87, ’92, sister Michelle Lally O’Grady ’85, and brother Greg Lally ’92 were in attendance at the Hall of Fame Inductee Luncheon. (See photo and story on p. 45)

Whitney started a new job as a Veterinary Technician Assistant at the VCA in Weymouth. She works in both Internal Medicine as well as the Emergency Room. Her son, Grayson, also graduated from Hingham High this past spring and is now playing soccer at Denison University.

See the “For the Common Good” profile covering Brendan’s work with Project DEEP and other organizations on p. 28.

CLASS OF

1988 It’s your 30th Reunion Year!

MAY 4-5, 2018

Robert Hayes III ’88 CLASS OF

1986 Craig Salters ’86 Craig has a new position as the Editor of The Barnstable Patriot, a weekly newspaper covering Barnstable, Cape Cod. He has written several pieces in this issue (see pp. 24, 28, and 36-37)

Rob's daughter, Clare ’24, is a 6th grader in the Middle School joining her older sister Caitlin ’21, who is a 9th grader in the Upper School.

William Higgins ’88 Bill and his wife, Lauren’s, son Frank Higgins signed a National Letter of Intent to play lacrosse at Bucknell University. Frank will graduate from Hingham High School this spring (see photo below).

CLASS OF

1987 Paulette (Bruneau) Brooks ’87 Paulette has a new position as Assistant to Associate Vice Chancellor for Research Administration & Institutional Compliance at UMass Lowell.

William Higgins ’88 48

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Jeremy hit the ice for the NHL Hall of Fame Legends game on Sunday, November 12, 2017 at the Air Canada Centre. JR scored 1 goal and had 3 assists for team Kurri, representing the world. Unfortunately, they lost 10-9 against Team Messier, representing Canada.

Kelley Tuthill ’88 Kelley received The Jimmy Fund Award from Dana-Farber in September. “This award was established in 1983 to honor celebrities who have, over the years, committed themselves to the mission of Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund. These extraordinary honorees have demonstrated their dedication to cancer research and beyond through their endless support, encouragement, guidance and friendship.” (see photo below)

CLASS OF

1989 Laurie Pfeffer Amonte ’89 & Tony Amonte ’89 Laurie and Tony’s son, Ty, is following in his father’s footsteps and playing hockey at Boston

University. Ty scored his first collegiate goal as a member of Boston University's men’s hockey team on October 27, 2017 against the top ranked University of Denver at Agganis Arena.

CLASS OF

1990 Ayanna Hines ’90 Ayanna was on campus for Homecoming and played in the 5th Annual Alumni Basketball Game! (See photo on p. 41)

Dorinda Nagle Malcolm ’90 Dorinda remarried 2 years ago to David Malcolm. On September 1, 2017, she launched a private practice in Speech Language Pathology in Maryland.

Dianne Mallett ’90 Dianne shares: “As many of you know I've had a very difficult 2015-2016. My daughter, Margo, had Ulcerative Colitis and she was at Children's Hospital for three major surgeries to remove her colon. I lost my job and we were evicted twice. I returned to school, Quincy College, and got 2 certificates, one in Human Services and the other in Substance Abuse

Counseling. I graduated with a 4.0 Summa Cum Laude. Margo was accepted and graduated the HPREP program, recruitment and exposure program at Harvard Medical School.

She received her Certified Nursing Assistant licence and is looking at colleges for nursing.

We have a wonderful home near the beach. I was reemployed in my field of Telecom, and I work from home supporting a sales team in New York at Advantage Communications Group. I am volunteering at St. Agatha church as the Director of their “I am Special" program. Margo is cured and healthy. Life is getting better.”

CLASS NOTES: 1980s-1990s

Jeremy Roenick ’88

Sutee Pearce ’90 Sutee recently hiked Mt. Washington and rode his Harley to Acadia National Park.

CLASS OF

1991 Kimberly Curtis ’91 Kim is living in Boulder, CO and preparing for the launch of her new business. She and her partner, Chad Chatfield, are the founders of FoodFlip. Kim is currently a Chef after starting her career in software. Stay tuned!

Matthew McDonough ’91 Matt's son, Matthew ’24, is a 6th grader at the Middle School this year.

CLASS OF

1992 José Edwards III ’92 José was on campus for Homecoming and played in the 5th Annual Alumni Basketball Game! (See photo on p. 41)

Christopher Johnson ’92 Chris married Michelle Rodriguez over Memorial Day weekend 2017 in the Santa Cruz, CA redwoods.

Keith Keeler ’92 Keith took on a new role as the Director of Control States - West for Beam Suntory. He and his family relocated back to the Midwest after a short stint in Austin, TX. Keith, his wife Wendy, their two kids Karys (11) and Daniel (8) now reside in Dublin, OH. Beam Kelley Tuthill ’88

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

49

CLASS NOTES: 1990s

Suntory is the world's third largest premium spirits company, Crafting the Spirits Brands that Stir the World.

Owned by Suntory Holdings Limited, Beam Suntory has a dynamic portfolio with unparalleled expertise in whisky, including world leadership in bourbon and Japanese whisky, and strength across many key categories including tequila, vodka, cognac, rum and cordials.

Tanisha Sullivan ’92 See the “For the Common Good” profile covering Tanisha’s work as NAACP President (Boston chapter) on pp. 22-23.

“Happy Anjajavy (Madagascar) Village Kids” - See Jessie Anderson Wixon ’94

Brian Higgins ’93 Brian is a Senior Partner at Jordan Company and continues to live in Rye, NY with his wife, Kimberly, and three children.

Rachel Bello Skladany ’94

CLASS OF

William Mudd ’93

1993 It’s your 25th Reunion Year!

MAY 4-5, 2018

Kenneth Berman ’93 Ken is the Senior Director of Marketing at Drizly, a service that allows consumers in over 70 markets to order a variety of beer, wine, and spirits directly to their location through a mobile app.

Alegria De La Cruz ’93 See the “For the Common Good” profile covering Alegria’s work as Chief Deputy County Counsel in Sonoma County, CA on p. 25.

William and his wife, Valentina, welcomed their first child, a girl named Iavinia Bonnie Mudd, on September 25, 2017.

Amanda opened Krigsman Yoga, a yoga studio located at 25 Central Street in Hingham, MA. Information about upcoming classes and events can be found online at krigsmanyoga.com

Lesley Leibowitz Snyder ’93 Thayer's Alumni House was thrilled to welcome Lesley to their team this fall. She is working part-time as an administrative assistant.

CLASS OF

1994 Jessica came in first place in her age group, 5th out of 95 women and 27th overall, in the Massachusetts State Olympic Triathlon on July 9, 2017. Her performance qualified her for the USA Triathlon Nationals on August 12, 2017 in Nebraska where

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Rachel has a new position as Director of Learning Strategy at Bank Street College of Education in New York City.

Jessie Anderson Wixon ’94 Amanda Goulston Shields ’93

Jessica Scheller Holmes ’94

50

she qualified to race with Team USA at the World Championships in Australia in September 2018.

Jessie, an accomplished New York City photographer, was the “Joyfulness" best in category winner for the 2017 VOICE Collection photography competition hosted by Click & Co. The purpose of VOICE is to recognize and celebrate images that encapsulate powerful vision, originality, inspiration, creativity, and overall excellence. Jessie's image was one of only 14 Best in Category winners out of more than 45,000 submissions and was featured in November's issue of Click Magazine and can be seen in the VOICE online gallery collection (www.clickinmoms.com/ voice) and as part of a print showcase at their photography conference Click Away.

Her photo entitled “Happy Anjajavy (Madagascar) Village Kids" (see photo above) was taken on a summer trip to Madagascar last year. She and her family travel quite a bit and Africa is one of their favorite continents to visit (her young daughters have been 7 times!). Jessie said “Madagascar was a fantastic trip where we spent the first week in the rain forest trekking for lemurs

Jessie's photography business focuses on families, newborns, weddings and travel.

See: jessiewixonphotography.com.

CLASS OF

Richmond Pittman ’01

1997 Sara Conahan ’97 Sara accepted a new and exciting role at New Profit, which is a national non-profit venture philanthropy fund.

1995

Stacie Robarts ’01 Stacie married Kyle Thomas on August 12, 2017 in New Orleans. (See photos on pp. 46 and 52)

CLASS OF

1998 It’s your 20th Reunion Year!

MAY 4-5, 2018

Quilninious Randall ’98 Q was on campus for Homecoming and played in the 5th Annual Alumni Basketball Game! (See photo on p. 41)

Meredith O'Brien Tierney ’01 Meredith, her husband Ryan, and big sister Harper welcomed a second daughter Riley June on July 6th. (See photo on p. 55) CLASS OF

2002 Meghan Haggerty ’02

Dale Taylor ’98 CLASS OF

Richmond was on campus for Homecoming and played in the 5th Annual Alumni Basketball Game! (See photo on p. 41)

CLASS NOTES: 1990s-2000s

in the trees. We even got to feed one out of our hands which is a memory I'll never forget. The second week was spent on the beach where a different species of lemur called Sifikas actually come to you and they bounce across the ground like a mini kangaroo! Whenever we travel to Africa we always make a point to visit the local villages and meet the children and make a donation. This photo was taken in the village of Anjajavy which is on the beach.

The children love meeting tourists and especially love their photos being taken as is evident from this photo. They literally surrounded me as I took their photos and showed them on the back of my camera.

The happiest children!"

Dale is the Assistant Director of Admissions at Siena College in New York.

Meghan started a new job as the Chief of Staff at MassHighway, Boston.

William O'Dwyer ’02 Jeffrey Gulko ’95 Jeff married Dr. Stefanie Seixas-Mikelus at the historic Cotton Dock at Boone Hall Plantation in Charleston, SC. Jeff is CEO of The Gulko Group which specializes in media strategy, public relations and artist management and his bride is Medical Director of Robotic Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, NJ. (See photo on p. 52) The couple lives in Spring Lake, NJ with their two pups Leo and Sabrina and proudly wear their Patriots jerseys every Sunday even though they live in Jets country.

CLASS OF

1996 Meghan Mullin Harney ’96 Congratulations to Meg on her induction into Thayer's Hall of Fame on October 21, 2017! Meg currently lives in Wellesley with her husband Justin and her three boys. (See photo and story on p. 45)

CLASS OF

2000

Billy played in the 5th Annual Alumni Basketball Game! (See photo on p. 41)

CLASS OF

Paul Archibald, Jr. ’00 Paul and his wife, Lucy, welcomed baby Georgia Iselin Archibald into the world on November 2, 2017. Born at 6 lbs 11 oz.

Both mom and baby are doing great!

Allison Kent Trumbull ’00 Allison and her husband, Robert, welcomed their second child, Henry Thomas, on August 30, 2017. (See photo on p. 55) CLASS OF

2001 Michael Booras ’01 In July of 2017, Mike started a new position as the Director of Development at Northeastern University.

2003 It’s your 15th Reunion Year!

MAY 4-5, 2018

Michael Jones ’03 Mike was on campus for Homecoming and played in the 5th Annual Alumni Basketball Game! (See photo on p. 39)

Joeanna (King) McPherson ’03 Joeanna has been teaching sixth grade students in the Brookline school system for the past eight years. She currently lives in Boston with her husband, Mike, and their two children.

Michael Montani ’01 Michael is now a Senior Analyst at MoffettNathanson LLC in New York City.

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

51

Thayer Weddings ’83 - ’06 1 Leif Tilden ’83 On July 22, 2017, Leif celebrated a loving union with Tatiana Roza with a very small ceremony in Irvine, CA.

Jeffrey Gulko ’95 Jeff got married on October 17, 2017 in Charleston, SC. 2

1

Leif Tilden ’83

4

Tom Humplik ’04

2

Jeffrey Gulko ’95

5

Nicole Desjarlais Paulick ’06

3

Stacie Robarts ’01

6

Jane King ’06

3 Stacie Robarts ’01 Stacie married Kyle Thomas on August 12, 2017 in New Orleans.

1 Tom Humplik ’04 4 Tom and Martha Miller were married on August 20, 2017 at the de Seversky Mansion in Glen Head, New York.

5 Nicole Desjarlais Paulick ’06 Nicole married Spencer Paulick on October 21, 2017 at Mount Hope Farm in Bristol, RI.

6 Jane King ’06 Jane King ’06 married Christopher Flynn on September 9, 2017 at Ted Williams Park in Lakeville, MA.

52

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Thayer Weddings ’07 - ’09 7 Patrick Beauregard ’07 Pat married Amanda Flood on Friday, August 18, 2017 in Chatham, MA.

7

Patrick Beauregard ’07

10

Thomas Darling ’09

8 Richard Vazza ’07 Ricky married Whitney Washousky on June 17, 2017 at the Hall of Springs in Saratoga, NY.

9 Zach Clayton ’08 Zach married Emma Obernesser on October 22, 2017 at Spencer Pierce Little Farm in Newbury MA.

10 Thomas Darling ’09 Tommy married Ashley Braun in Napa Valley, CA on August 25, 2017.

8

Richard Vazza ’07

11

Danielle DeMarco ’09

11 Danielle DeMarco ’09 Danielle married Nick Resor on September 2, 2017 in Jackson, WY.

Kassy Sullivan ’09 & Michael Desmond ’09 Kassy married Michael Desmond ’09 on September 9, 2017 in Milton, MA. 12

9

Zach Clayton ’08

12

Michael Desmond ’09 & Kassy Sullivan ’09

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

53

CLASS NOTES: 2000s

CLASS OF

CLASS OF

2004

2006

Thomas Humplik ’04

Catherine Ernst Brignolo ’06

Tom and Martha Miller were married on August 20, 2017 at the de Seversky Mansion in Glen Head, NY. (See photo on p. 52)

Callie and her husband Timothy welcomed Camilla (Millie) Claire Brignolo, born August 5, 2017. (See photo on p. 55)

Patrick Mathews ’04

Shane Caffrey ’06

Congratulations to Pat and his wife, Sara, on the birth of their son Ryan Patrick Mathews born on Wednesday, August 30, 2017. (See photo on p. 55)

Shane Caffrey is a Captain and a pilot in the United States Marine Corps. He is stationed at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, CA.

Brandon Odom ’04 Brandon played in the 5th Annual Alumni Basketball Game! (See photo on p. 41) CLASS OF

2005 Anthony Aiello ’05 Anthony is now the Business Development Director at Suffolk Construction in Boston, MA.

Tyrece Gibbs ’05 Tyrece started as the Berwick Academy Head Coach of the Boys Varsity Basketball team in October 2017. He is excited to develop his student-athletes and prepare them for life on and off the basketball court. Prior to accepting this position, he was serving as an Assistant Coach at Marshwood High school in South Berwick, ME. His wife, Brittany, and daughter, Joey (JoJo), are excited to be part of the Berwick Academy community as well.

Yusef Khan ’05 Yusef is living in Milwaukee, WI and proposed to Michelle Oligny in August 2017.

They are planning a May 2018 wedding in Canton, MA.

Logan King ’05 Logan is engaged to Liz Pfeffer and planning a September 2018 wedding.

Mark Mangurian ’05 Mark married Alexandra Lee on July 1, 2017 at Keystone Ranch in the Colorado Rockies.

David Carson, Jr. ’06 Dave is now a Business Development Manager at Kennedy Capital Management, Inc. in St. Louis, MO.

Jude David ’06 Jude was on campus for Homecoming and played in the 5th Annual Alumni Basketball Game! (See photo on p. 41)

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Pat married Amanda Flood on Friday, August 18, 2017 in Chatham, MA. (See photo on p. 53)

Andrew Olsen ’07 Andrew has been living in New York City for the past four years. He enjoys working at UBS in Equity Product Management.

Nathan Richman ’07 Check out Nate in the recent film Stronger.

He plays “Big D,” the real-life cousin of Boston Marathon bombing survivor, Jeff Bauman (played by Jake Gyllenhaal). The film has already earned Oscar buzz.

Kristen Vassalotti ’07 In October 2017, Kristen said “yes!” She is engaged to Greg Slusarz of Canton.

The couple is plannina a September 2018 wedding on Cape Cod.

Richard Vazza ’07

Jane King ’06 Jane married Christopher Flynn on September 9, 2017 at Ted Williams Park in Lakeville, MA. Alumni in attendance included: Michael King ’01, Jeffrey King ’04 with his band The VanBurens (which also includes Emmett Knox ’04 and Matthew Spitz ’04), Jacqui Hennessey ’06, and Tarah O’Brien ’06. (See photo on p. 52)

Courtney Oliver Lewis ’06 Courtney has started a new job as the Associate Director for Academic Advising at Northeastern University.

James Marcellino ’06 James continues to live in New York City and is enjoying his successes in the commercial real estate business. He is currently the Assistant Vice President of Leasing at The Moinian Group.

Nicole Desjarlais Paulick ’06 Nicole married Spencer Paulick on October 21, 2017 at Mount Hope Farm in Bristol, RI. (See photo on p. 52) CLASS OF

2007 Alexandra Anderson ’07 In August, Alexandra announced her engagement to Emilio Tangerini. She is planning an October 2018 wedding in Boston.

54

Patrick Beauregard ’07

Ricky married Whitney Washousky on June 17, 2017 at the Hall of Springs in Saratoga, NY. Alumni in attendance were his father, Rick Vazza ’81, siblings Ryan Vazza ’09, Mike Vazza ’11, and Danielle Vazza ’13; uncle Stephen Vazza ’83; cousin Daintry Calnan ’14; as well as alumni Ryan Murphy ’07, Pat Beauregard ’07, and Happy Wilkinson Jacobs ’82.

(See photo on p. 53)

CLASS OF

2008 It’s your 10th Reunion Year!

MAY 4-5, 2018

Zachary Clayton ’08 Zach married Emma Obernesser on October 22, 2017 at Spencer Pierce Little Farm in Newbury MA. (See photo on p. 53)

Kiley Horne ’08

In September, Kiley started teaching science at Thayer.

Ryan Urso ’08 Congratulations to Ryan on his engagement to Jessica Luisi on August 11, 2017.

Thayer Babies Welcoming the newest members of the Thayer community!

CAMILLA (MILLIE) CLAIRE BRIGNolo

Ryan patrick mathews

BORN: August 5, 2017 Catherine Ernst Brignolo ’06 & Timothy Brignolo

BORN: August 30, 2017 Sara & Pat Mathews ’04

Henry Thomas Trumbull

RILEY Tierney

New Parent?

Share the good news with your fellow Thayer alums!

Email us your newborn’s full name and date of birth - and be sure to include a high-res (300 dpi or higher) photo to Brad Peterson ’11

bpeterson@thayer.org

BORN: August 30, 2017 Allison Kent Trumbull ’06 & Robert Trumbull

They are planning a September 2018 wedding.

In other exciting news, Ryan joined the Boston Police Academy, along with Tim Sprague ’10.

CLASS OF

2009 Rebecca Aliber ’09 Becca is living in Vail, CO and working in Development as a Program Coordinator for the Vail Veterans Program.

Through rehabilitative sports and recreation activities, the Vail Veterans Program helps to rebuild confidence and provide a sense of freedom from catastrophic injuries including: loss of

multiple limbs, severe burns, spinal cord injuries, post-traumatic stress syndrome, and traumatic brain injuries.

BORN: July 6, 2017 Meredith (O’Brien) Tierney ’01 & Ryan Tierney

Daniel Kent ’09

Thomas Darling ’09

Dan accepted an Inside Sales role at Infinio Systems in Cambridge. It is a tech startup that makes data center software. He is also enjoying living in the North End.

Tom and Ashley Braun were married in Napa Valley, CA on August 25, 2017.

(See photo on p. 53)

Kassy Sullivan ’09 & Michael Desmond ’09

Danielle DeMarco ’09 Danielle married Nick Resor on September 2, 2017 in Jackson, WY. (See photo on p. 53)

Ibrahim Durrani ’09 I.B. was on campus for Homecoming and played in the 5th Annual Alumni Basketball Game! (See photo on p. 41)

Kassy married Michael Desmond ’09 on September 9, 2017 in Milton, MA. Alumni in attendance included (from the Desmond Family): Karl Desmond ’06, Cian Desmond ’07, Ciara Desmond ’08, Alison Desmond ’11, Colm Desmond ’13; (from the Sullivan Family): Abby Sullivan ’11 and Brenden Sullivan ’13; Friends: Grace Curley ’10, Megan Flaherty ’09 (both bridesmaids), Chris Lerner ’09, James Ferrera ’15, Joe Ferrera ’12, Tom Darling ’09, AJ Ferrera ’09, Hannah Mulvey

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

55

CLASS NOTES: 2010s

’10, Tom Finneran ’09, Sam Friedman ’09, Andrew Marsano ’09, Kyle McKenzie ’09, Evan Metzold ’09, Dan Costello ’13, and Ryan Peterson ’14. (See photo on p. 53) CLASS OF

2010

Elizabeth Lyons ’11 Liz graduated from New York University in the spring of 2017 with her masters degree in Art History. In September, she accepted a job at Deutsche Bank in their Art Curatorial Department and made the move down to New York City. She currently lives on the Upper East Side.

Kate was promoted to Development Officer, Stewardship and Events at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

Mary McAlister ’10 & Jack Turgeon ’10 Mary married Jack Turgeon ’10 on September 2, 2017 at Wollaston Golf Club.

Timothy Sprague ’10 Tim joined the Boston Police Academy along with fellow alum Ryan Urso ’08.

CLASS OF

2011 Michael Clougher ’11 Mike came in first in the men’s single sculls at the U.S. Senior Championships Trials in Princeton Junction, NJ in August 2017. He then represented the U.S. in the world championship event in September 2017, finishing 19th overall in the men’s single sculls.

Vanessa Kelly ’11 Vanessa is Ms. Massachusetts U.S. Continental 2018. She will be competing in the National Pageant in August 2018. For now, she will have the honor to represent Massachusetts and focus on her platform to raise awareness for childhood cancer.

Safia Khan ’11 Safia started her new job at XCM Solutions as a Project Manager after working at PricewaterhouseCoopers post graduation.

She is also excited to be a bridesmaid in her brother’s upcoming wedding (Yusef Khan ’05).

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Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

Emma has taken on a full time role at Thayer. In addition to her job as Program Director for the Thayer Crew Program, she started as the Donor Systems Coordinator in the Thayer Alumni House in October.

CLASS OF

Katherine MacVarish ’11 Kathryn Hannigan ’10

Emma Taylor ’12

Katie graduated from Cambridge University, London in May with a double masters in International Affairs and Anthropology.

She is now at The Basic School at Quantico in Virginia preparing for her deployment as an officer in the US Marine Corps.

2013 It’s your 5th Reunion Year!

MAY 4-5, 2018

Mickey Alperin ’13 Alexandra Morey ’11 Allie is a Pre-K Assistant Teacher and Head High School Field Hockey Coach at Brimmer and May.

CLASS OF

2012

Mickey is now a Technology Associate at Wellington Management in Boston.

CLASS OF

2014

Julia Budde ’12

Jonathan Barry ’14

Julia moved to St. Louis, MO and is working as the Assistant Director of Development for the Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center at Washington University's School of Medicine. Julia shared, “St. Louis is a big change from Boston (I'm still adjusting to the climate!), but I am very happy with my new position, new home, and new life out here in the Midwest.”

Jon is now playing Division I Lacrosse at Providence College.

Adrian Dunne ’12 Adrian has started a new position as a Loan Analyst at Walker & Dunlop in Boston.

Derek Keough ’12 Derek is now teaching geometry, algebra, and calculus at Weymouth High School.

Thomas Logue ’12 Tom was on campus for Homecoming and played in the 5th Annual Alumni Basketball Game! (See photo on p. 41)

Giovanna Pickering ’12 Giovanna has a new position as a Client Associate at Merrill Lynch in Boston.

CLASS OF

2015 Ryan Pfeffer ’15 Ryan is currently a junior at Trinity College and is playing both hockey and lacrosse.

CLASS OF

2016 Ty Amonte ’16 Ty scored his first collegiate goal as a member of Boston University's men’s hockey team on October 27, 2017 against the top ranked University of Denver at Agganis Arena.

CLASS NOTES: 2010s

Christopher Broderick ’16 Chris had a great freshman season playing lacrosse at Denison University.

His team won the NCAC regular season as well as the tournament championship and they made it to the NCAA semifinals. Chris, a long stick midfielder, was named on the ALL-NCAC squad. He had 33 ground balls and seven caused turnovers in 16 games played.

Nicholas Hanflig ’16 Nick transferred from WPI to the highly competitive Computer Engineering program at Northeastern where he was recently named a Husky Ambassador.

CLASS OF

2017

Patrick Kennedy ’17 “PK" had a great fall at Trinity College playing on the men's soccer team. His highlight of the season was the game against Tufts University when he had his biggest fan section: his family including siblings Sean ’18 and Annie ’19, his former TA teammate Owen Drometer ’19 and family; Beth and Bob P ’05, ’09, ’17 - the parents of his close TA friend Jack Healey ’17; and Mr. Jake Diamond P ’06, ’09. Patrick is already looking forward to next season.

Paulina Vo ’17 Paulina sent a picture from a recent Thayer reunion at a track meet when her school, UMass Boston, competed against Bridgewater State, where Tai Miller ’17 runs track. (See picture on the right)

Matthew Gilbert ’17 Matt is enjoying his freshman year at Harvard University and has joined the Robotics Club and the Club Tennis Team. Matt returned to Thayer on Homecoming weekend and had a great time catching up with friends and former teachers. (See photo on p. 41)

Tai Miller ’17 and Paulina Vo ’17

Attention Alums!

Know fellow Thayer alumni who are doing something interesting or amazing? Do you know of someone who continues to live out our motto by inspiring others to excellence or their many contributions to the common good?

Let us know so that we can feature them in these pages!

CONTACT US!

✉ magazine@thayer.org

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

57

fv

THE

SOUTHWORTH SOCIETY P L A N N E D

GI V I NG

AT

T H AY E R

AC A D E M Y

We invite you to consider planned giving as a means to supporting Thayer while creating a personal and meaningful legacy.

3 s & 8 s!

IT'S YOUR REUNION!

MAY

4-5

2018

Planned gifts can often provide valuable tax benefits and, in some cases, income for life to the donor. Whether you use cash or other assets, such as real estate, artwork, or stock, the benefits of funding a planned gift can be significant. By including Thayer in your estate plans, you can help strengthen Thayer while preserving your existing assets. Individuals who make a planned gift to Thayer are welcomed as members of The Southworth Society. Planned gifts can be tailored to the unique circumstances of each donor, and some typical options include bequests, charitable trust, annuities, or a life insurance policy with Thayer as the beneficiary.

For more information please visit:

www.thayer.org/reunion

58

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

To find out more about how you can benefit from including a planned gift to Thayer in your financial planning, contact Melissa Tuthill Forger ’92, Director of Development at 781.664.2501 or mforger@ thayer.org or Rachael Rouvales Vassalotti ’79 P ’07, ’11, ’12, Associate Director of Development at 781.664.2504 or rvassalotti@thayer.org.

CHUCK ON GIVING WADE ’49 BACK

STORY BY PAUL W. KAHN

When Chuck Wade ’49 begins to share about Thayer Academy, he can’t help but be effusive when recalling experiences and memories and stories from his time here with his ever-present smile.

There’s the one from 1945, his first year at Thayer, when he befriended one of a number of returning soldiers from WWII that the Academy brought in as part of a returning veterans program, helping them get the credits they needed to go to college. “He was wonderful and handled it beautifully, as a 23 or 24 year old with all of us 14year olds!” Then there’s his recollection of Grace Osgood, a history teacher who would always stand facing the students in a certain way while writing on the blackboard - and when asked about why she never turned around to write (which would have been easier), she matter-of-factly explained, “I want to look in the students’ eyes to make sure they’re getting it.” And finally, he shares about playing on Thayer’s undefeated baseball team as a catcher - and how he broke his hand on a force out at home during the final game of the season, yet still managed to catch the next three innings.

“Thayer has been ahead of things right from the start - they were co-ed from the start, whereas other ISL schools were male-only for a long time. They had that veterans program following the war.

They’re leaders in the field of reading - I’ve been impressed at how well prepared they are to help students like my grandson who has dyslexia. And they’re a leader in financial aid, I think there’s a good record of that here.”

His personal experiences and Thayer’s rich history have helped to shape Chuck both as a student and as a philanthropist - someone motivated to continually give back, and then give back some more.

It’s why he signed up to be a class agent for Thayer when the program began some 30 years ago. He remains active in this capacity to this day, with his class of ’49 always at the top of the alumni giving percentage list each year. “The thing that’s great is when I call people during the year, they’d ask, ‘are we still tops?’ It is a matter of pride among my classmates, and is never a chore to give.”

Giving back is also why he served for seven years as a valued member of the Board of Trustees. And it’s why in addition to giving generously each year to the Annual Fund, Chuck set up a planned gift, via a Charitable Remainder Trust through his “other” alma mater, Harvard University, where he

attended after graduating cum laude from Thayer. But even still, he’s found a way to give back to Thayer even more.

Upon learning about Project RISE (Respect, Integrity, and Success through Education) the academic program serving students from Boston’s underserved neighborhoods started and led by Thayer history teacher, alum, and parent Rob Dixon ’79 P ’03, ’16, Chuck was inspired and decided to do two things. First, he visited Thayer during the summer of 2017 to see the program first hand and learn about the good work that Dixon and Project RISE were doing on campus; and second, he decided to give a substantial donation in support of the program.

“My motto in life is ‘it takes courage not to be discouraged,’” Chuck notes. This remarkable attitude towards life, seeing

opportunity and the potential to celebrate others in the midst of discouraging situations is perfectly encapsulated in how he ends his story about breaking his hand during that baseball game.

In typical Chuck fashion, he doesn’t dwell at all on his grit in playing with a broken throwing hand. Rather, he chooses to highlight the fact that once someone got on base, the student that ended up replacing him as catcher was a young man who had quit the team earlier. “He was there just as a fan, and I gave him my uniform to put on, and he came in and caught the rest of the game,” he recalls. The boy ended up later scoring the winning run in that final game of that undefeated season. Chuck smiles at the end of yet another story about celebrating someone else who got to achieve something wonderful because of Thayer.

And then it’s on to the next story.

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018

59

IN MEMORIAM

Thayer Faculty

William “Bill” Searle P ’85, ’87

Art Department, founder of the Academy’s

He leaves his surviving wife Diane, his son,

architecture program, and an acclaimed and

Gregory ’85, his daughter, Jennifer ’87,

accomplished painter in his own right, Bill

and many other extended family members.

inspired and encouraged Thayer’s students over a career that spanned four decades.

Indeed, more than any other, Mr. Searle

William Ross Searle, of

defined and put into place an arts program

Mashpee, artist and educator,

that remains to this day a showcase for our

was born in 1936 and raised

students’ passions and talents and a source

on Martha’s Vineyard Island.

of such great community joy and pride.

He grew up in Edgartown, attending Edgartown schools into high

His paintings span over five decades and

school, eventually graduating from Plainville

are included in over five hundred private,

High School in 1954. He served three years

corporate, institutional and museum

in the U. S. Army Signal Corps, as Sp3,

collections across the United States, and

and was a non-combatant Korean veteran,

Europe, including; West Point Museum;

and an atomic veteran, participating in

Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Museum,

the Redwing hydrogen bomb test series on

Atlanta; New England Museum of Sports;

Eniwetok, 1956-1957.

Cape Cod Museum Of Art; Cahoon Museum Of American Art; Heritage Museums

After his military service years, he pursued

And Gardens; Martha’s Vineyard Historical

his interest in art, earning his B.F.A. degree

Society Museum and Braintree Historical

in painting and drawing from Massachusetts

Society Museum, among others. He is listed

College of Art in 1961 and received his

in “Who’s Who In America,” “Who’s Who

M.F.A. degree from Rhode Island School of

In American Art,” and “Who’s Who In

Design in 1963. He taught art for 47 years,

American Education.”

the last 33 years at Thayer Academy. An esteemed art teacher, former Chair of the

60

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

Rodney Baker Rodney M. Barker, former City of Newton Alderman, member of the School Committee, and long-time civic activist, died on Tuesday, October 2, 2017. He was 84.

Rodney was born in London, England in 1933, but was then moved to the suburb of Gerrards Cross to escape the bombing of London during WWII. He attained a Master of Arts in History and Law at Trinity Hall College, Cambridge University, and became a solicitor in his father’s firm. While in London, he met Elizabeth (Betsy) Hines, an American student; they married in London in 1958.

In 1968, Rodney and Betsy moved the family to Newton Highlands, finding a lifelong community. Rodney taught at the Beaver Country Day School prior to starting at Thayer in September 1969. At Thayer, he was hired as

retiring Leighton Tower. Rodney taught

1941

courses in Asian history and World History.

In 1977, he went part-time and taught a law course until he returned to a career as an attorney specializing in immigration law. However, he continued as a teacher and mentor, helping to found the Mt. Ida College Paralegal program and teaching at Suffolk Law School. He served as the Chapter Chair of the New England American Immigration Lawyers Association and worked with the Tibetan U.S. Resettlement Project, where he was instrumental in the drafting and passage of legislation which allowed the immigration of thousands of Tibetan Refugees to the United States. Rodney was naturalized as a United States Citizen in 1973, when he began a lifetime of public service in his adopted country. He was one of the founders of the Newton Highlands Neighborhood Area Council, and served for many years on Board of Alderman and School Committee. Rodney Barker Square in the Highlands was named in his honor. Rodney was an active member of the community, helping found the Newton-San Juan del Sur Sister City Project, serving as moderator for the Newton Highlands Congregational Church, and leading the Highland Marmalade Makers.

Rodney was an avid gardener, cultivating rare and unusual plants from seed in his beloved greenhouse, and serving as Chair of the New England Primula Society. He greatly enjoyed walking the hills of Wales and in Maine, where he and Betsy owned a summer cabin. Rodney also had a great love of books, and was a prolific reader, especially of British history.

He is survived by his wife, his daughter, his

community service. She volunteered on the Health Center Board in New Jersey,

IN MEMORIAM: Faculty-1940s

the History Department Chair, replacing

on the Wolcott Planning Commission

Mary Jane (MacCleave) Dexter ’41 Mary Jane (MacCleave) Dexter of Wolcott, VT, died peacefully at her home on September 9, 2017 in Wolcott where she had lived most of her years since 1950. She was born in Brockton, MA, in November, 1923, the daughter of Marguary Cochran MacCleave and Howard Maxwell MacCleave and sister of Howard Maxwell MacCleave ’39, all who predeceased her. She is survived by loving nephews and nieces and cousins, many friends and a number of godchildren.

She was the captain of the field hockey team while also playing tennis, volleyball, badminton, and archery. On top of that, she was involved with the orchestra and Glee Club. After high school, she went on to Skidmore and then graduated from the University of New Hampshire, cum laude, in 1945. She was a social worker and camp director at the North Bennett Street Industrial School in Boston. During WW II, she was a welder at the Foreriver Shipyard in Quincy, MA. From 1953-1968, she taught in the English Department at Eaglebrook School in Deerfield, MA, then at Hackley School in Tarrytown, NY. Her last full-time teaching job was at Rumson Country Day School in New Jersey.

Mary Jane married William Gregory Dexter

of Civil Authority, on the Board of the Glee Merritt Kelly Community Library, serving as president of the Board, and served with Out and About in her area.

She was a Girl Scout leader and a coach for the Special Olympics. Faithful to her favorite West Hill area, she held various offices in town and was active in the Historical Society for years. Her sincere effort in education was quite evident.

She and Bill traveled a great deal and enjoyed exploring, hiking, skiing and gardening. M.J. took her first trek in Nepal at age 70 with her dear friend, Bailey. Bill was a bicycle man and crossed the U.S. twice with students, camping along the way.

Ever fun-loving, she adopted her husband’s passion in the local Vermont Automobile Club for antique cars. They were keen members of the National Woodie Club and the Early Ford V-8 Club. Locally, they were members of the Northern Rivers Land Trust. St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church was important to M.J. She served as Senior Warden and on the altar guild and was also a vestry member. After Bill died in 1991, M.J. continued to live at West Hill with her golden retriever, Molly.

Bill and M.J. will be on their favorite sweet slopes of West Hill.

on August 2, 1961 and their busy life together began. They shared great enthusiasm for education and loved children and learning. M.J. was also committed to

two sons, and three grandchildren.

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

61

IN MEMORIAM: 1940s

Kenneth Gordon ’41

PT 508 during World War II. Married for

mother and good friend, beloved by so

Kenneth Gordon, 94, of

72 years and together for 75 years, they

many, and who will be dearly missed.

Boca Raton, FL, formerly of Newton, died peacefully on Saturday, October 7, 2017, 8 days after the death of his wife, Nancy E. (Bennett)

successful marriage. They both agreed that

Charlotte Queeny leaves her five children;

having a great sense of humor and showing

eight grandchildren, including Warner

others kindness would solve many problems.

Queeny ’01; and 3 great-grandchildren.

Duxbury residents will recall seeing them

Gordon, of 69 years.

on their daily walks across the Powder Point

Born in Boston, Ken graduated from Thayer

early-90's.

Academy in 1941 where he was part of the orchestra. After serving in the U.S. Army, he went on to Boston University. Ken's work included many years as a Certified Public Accountant and as a financial advisor. Ken was instrumental in the growth and success of many small businesses in the New England region. He created and led The Route 128 Practitioners Forum for 15 years.

He was the devoted father of two daughters and a late son and the loving grandfather of 3 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

1942

1946

Bridge, hand-in-hand, right up until their

After spending several years in Europe where

Charlotte Crandall Graves ’46

Mr. Queeny attended Trinity College in

Charlotte "Stubby" (Cran-

Dublin, they settled in Duxbury in 1952.

dall) Graves, 88, passed away

It was there that Mrs. Queeny opened the

quietly at home in Ware, MA

Meeting House Nursery School where, for

with her family on October

more than 30 years, Duxbury children were

24, 2017.

taught the basic fundamentals of social graces and etiquette. Former students recall

She was born in Hartford, CT, the daughter

the daily firm handshakes and looking

of Albert and Dorothy (Brown) Crandall.

their teacher in the eye as they arrived each

Charlotte grew up in Braintree, MA, and

morning. They recall that she was always

graduated from Thayer Academy and Colby

fun, loving, and caring, and many of her

College.

students remained in touch with her right up until the time of her passing.

In 1951, she married Harold O. "Jim" Graves, who remained her first love and best

Charlotte Fitzpatrick Queeny ’42

Mrs. Queeny was a visible and active mem-

friend for 64 years. During their early years

ber of the community. She was a member of

of marriage, they lived in Wilbraham, Am-

Charlotte F. Queeny died

the Duxbury Rural and Historical Society,

herst and Easthampton, MA, while Jim was

the Ladies Lunch Bunch and an honorary

a teacher and coach at Wilbraham Academy

member of the Duxbury Yacht Club. Last

and Williston Academy, and then moved

year, at the Club's Annual Prize Day, she

to Ware, MA in 1958 when Jim joined the

was recognized as the oldest living female

Ware Savings Bank.

peacefully at her home in Duxbury, MA on Monday, October 16, 2017 surrounded by her loving family. She was 94 years old. Born in Rockland, MA, Charlotte was the youngest child of Charles H. and Mary A. Fitzpatrick. She grew up in Abington and spent her summers in Falmouth Heights. Mrs. Queeny attended Villa Maria in Montreal, Canada until she entered Thayer Academy in her freshman year. It was

member. For many years, Mrs. Queeny was a volunteer at Jordan Hospital in Plym-

Charlotte was a member of the United

outh, now known as Beth Israel Deacon-

Church of Ware and in 1968, at the sug-

ess-Plymouth. She served on their Board

gestion of Rev. Warren Jensen, established

of Directors, and spent several years as the

a local chapter of Operation Friendship in

Club's President.

Ware, a youth exchange program for young people to learn about cultures of other

Mrs. Queeny will be remembered as a

countries and to develop friendships around

remarkable woman, filled with warmth,

the world. She was a member of the Ware

were inseparable.

unstoppable energy, and an intuitive

Camera Club, Ware Social Science Club,

understanding of others. She was a great sto-

and Mary Lane Hospital Auxiliary, as well

They were married on May 15, 1943 in

ryteller, and her love of anything chocolate

as a dedicated volunteer at the hospital for

was legendary. She was cherished as a loving

more than 40 years.

there that she met her future husband, James F. Queeny ’38 and from that point on, they

Jacksonville, FL shortly before Mr. Queeny returned to service as Executive Officer of

62

were often asked what their secret was to a

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

wife, mother, grandmother, great-grand-

family will always remember David as a true

children at the Young Men's Library Asso-

gentleman who taught his children what

ciation, which has continued since then,

it means to respect others and a man who

and she was the first female member of

truly adored being a Papa to his grandchil-

the library's Board of Directors, serving as

dren. He was often seen playing with them

treasurer for more than three decades.

as if he were a kid too. David had a smile for

Charlotte is survived by four daughters,

everyone he met.

her brother, James L. Crandall ’55, and a granddaughter.

In addition to his wife Connie, David leaves behind a daughter and son, his brother, and

1948 R. David Patch ’48

seven grandchildren.

1951

proud Korean War veteran,

Jeremiah “Jerry” J. Sheehy ’51

passed away peacefully on

Jeremiah John Sheehy, Jerry,

September 13, 2017, with his

of Braintree, passed away on

beloved family by his side; he

October 6, 2017 at the age of

was 87 years old. He was the dedicated hus-

for various charity organizations. Jerry was known throughout Braintree as the Hershey kiss man bringing smiles and love with his compliments and playful personality. Jerry was a true Irish fighter and will be remembered as a generous soul who was fiercely protective of his family and friends.

Jerry was the husband of the late Carol Ann (Sullivan) Sheehy, and father to the late Jeremiah Sheehy Jr. ’82. He is survived by two brothers, Richard Sheehy ’57 of Plymouth, MA and John Sheehy ’54 of Wells, ME,

David Patch, a longtime resident of Northborough and

Braintree as a youth coach and volunteer

IN MEMORIAM: 1940s-1950s

In 1963, she initiated Story Hour for

three children, and five grandchildren.

1953

84. Jerry was born in Boston

band of nearly 61 years to Cornelia (Allen)

on February 24, 1933, raised in Randolph,

Patch; their anniversary was to be celebrated

MA and has been a resident of Braintree,

on September 15th. David was born in

MA for over 50 years. Jerry spent summers

North Quincy, MA on April 2, 1930 to the

with his family throughout his life in Wells,

late Russell C. and Mabel J. (Schillhammer)

Maine where he enjoyed fishing and spend-

Patch.

ing time at the beach. He was a graduate of Thayer Academy Class of 1951 where he

David attended Thayer Academy, graduating

starred in football, baseball, and track. With

in 1948. He then continued his education

a recommendation from former president

at Wentworth, earning his Associates prior

John F. Kennedy, he attended Harvard

to entering the Air Force. Having a lifelong

University on a football scholarship.

love affair of flying, David excelled as a flight engineer and earned rank of Staff Ser-

After his time at Harvard Jerry entered the

geant prior to being honorably discharged.

Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne

He was proud to be a Green Hornet. After

Division and was stationed at Ft. Bragg,

proudly serving his country, David worked

NC during the Korean War. Jerry was a

as an electrical engineer for Honeywell

member of the Randolph Oilers semi-pro

for over 40 years. He and Connie enjoyed

football team and entered into a career as

exploring Cape Cod, spending time at their

a hoisting engineer and member of IUOE

home in West Yarmouth, square dancing

Local 4. He worked on many buildings and

with friends, and the time spent with their

projects throughout the greater Boston area.

family on Sandy Island at Lake Winnipe-

Jerry was an active member of the Disabled

saukee. David was a longtime member of

American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 29 in

Siloam Masonic Lodge and took pride in

Braintree where he served in many capacities

maintaining his properties. He was most

including manager of the club and Chair-

proud of the stonewalls he erected. His

man for many years. He was active through

Nancy Hunter Miles ’53 Nancy (Hunter) Miles, 80, of Camarillo died on September 28, 2016 at home after a lengthy illness. Nancy was born on February 6, 1936 in Quincy, MA. She graduated cum laude from Thayer Academy in 1953 where she played softball and tennis. Nancy went on to gain a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry from Radcliffe College. In 1967, while teaching school in Massachusetts, she met and married Wyman O. Miles. They remained happily married for 49 years.

In 1968, they moved to Camarillo, CA so Wyman could continue his job working for the US Navy at Point Mugu. Nancy taught biology and chemistry at Channel Islands High School and, after earning a Master's Degree, she moved on to work as an academic counselor for the University of La Verne at Point Mugu. She later became director of the university's center at Point Mugu. A strong believer in the value

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

63

IN MEMORIAM: 1950s-1960s

of education, there she helped countless

one of the most important decisions of

but in the end, she was an expert. As the

people earn college degrees and advance

her life. A romance blossomed and they

wife of a Mason, she also worked at all their

their careers. Fitting, her senior quote from

were married in 1960. They shared 57

events and activities. She loved spending

her Thayer yearbook reads, “Let knowledge

wonderful years of marriage together.

the summers in Baldwin, Maine with all her

grow from more to more.” She will be dearly

They settled in Burlington, MA in 1964

family. The cottage was always bulging at

missed.

when they were expecting their second

the seams, filled with family, sleeping bags,

child. Judy and Bruce both became very

fun and laughter. She was always ready for a

Nancy is survived by her loving husband,

active in the community. Bruce became

road trip, whether it was to Indiana, Upstate

Wyman O. Miles, two sons, and a grandson.

a member of the Masons. Judy became a

New York, Canada, or any other destina-

Nancy was preceded in death by her mother

member of the Eastern Star in Billerica.

tion. She enjoyed numerous trips to Bermu-

and father, Hugh Hunter ’32, and her son,

She was very active in all the charity

da and Key West, Florida. Judy didn't need

Hugh.

work, socials, and the events of the East-

an extravagant lifestyle or material goods to

ern Star. She took on leadership positions

be happy. As long as she was surrounded by

until reaching highest position in the

her family and friends, she was the richest

chapter, Worthy Matron. Judy, once a

person in the world.

1956

Rainbow Girl in Braintree Assembly #30,

Judith (Benson) Judson ’56

renewed her involvement in the organiza-

Judy was the beloved wife of M. Bruce

tion when her girls were at an age to join.

Judson. She leaves three daughters, her

Judith B. Judson, a woman

She held the position of Pledge Mother

brother, Joseph P. Benson ’61, six grand-

devoted to her community,

and worked with Billerica Assembly #61

children, and many cousins. She also leaves

faith, and family, passed

Rainbow for Girls to instill the values

some longtime, treasured friends whom she

away peacefully with her family at her bed-

of faith, having hope in all you do, and

cherished dearly.

side on Wednesday, September 13, 2017.

charity toward others. Judy was also a

She was 79 years old.

Brownie and Girl Scout Leader for her three daughters.

1960

Judy was born in Quincy, the daughter of the late Joseph Benson and Barbara Shaw

Judy had worked at Digital as a reception-

Benson who both graduated from Thayer

ist for a number of years. She had worked

in 1928. She grew up in Braintree and was

at Jordan Marsh and Filene's in a variety

a graduate of Thayer Academy herself in

of positions including retail clerk, credit

Valerie Pappas Sapounakis ’60

1956. She was heavily involved with the

counter, and her favorite, gift wrap. She

Valerie (Pappas) Sapounakis

yearbook and newspaper while also playing

enjoyed those jobs, the customers, and

died in the company of loved

field hockey, basketball, and softball. Her

coworkers, but more so enjoyed her role

ones on September 25, 2017.

childhood summers were spent on the

as homemaker, wife, mother, and Nana.

Valerie was born in Boston,

beaches of Duxbury, where her family had

She was a longtime member of St. Mark's

a summer home. She never lost touch with

Episcopal Church. Judy's life revolved

was a graduate of Thayer Academy. While at

her childhood friends in Duxbury and often

around her family. Simply, if something

Thayer, she was on the newspaper staff and

returned with her children and grandchil-

was important for one of her family

sang in the Glee Club and Chapel Choir.

dren so that they could appreciate why

members, it was important that Judy

Valerie also played field hockey, basketball,

Duxbury was so special to her.

be there to support them. She was an

and softball during her two years. She then

raised in Milton, MA, and

avid supporter of the Boston Ballet. She

went on to graduate from Briarcliff College.

Judy went off to Cazenovia College in

attended countless dance recitals, football,

She led an exuberant and peripatetic life

Cazenovia, NY. Judy, ignoring the advice

soccer, baseball games, track meets,

with her husband, and raised their daughter

of her parents about staying away from the

cheerleading, equestrian events, and even

among family in Beverly Hills, CA, Green-

local boys, met Bruce Judson. Her decision

concerts. In the beginning, she might

wich, CT, and New York, NY. Valerie will

to overlook the guidance of her parents was

not have understood the rules or scoring,

be remembered for her humor, style, and love of life.

64

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

passionate about his family, doting on his

father of Boston and her husband Paul.

three nephews and their accomplishments.

Surviving Val are her daughter, son-in-law,

David made a positive impact on many lives

and grandson.

and will be dearly missed.

Thayer Academy where she was a key

David is survived by his mother, brother

ation and was on the tennis and track

1973

and sister-in-law, nephews, and long-time partner, Joan Shuman.

was one of five children born to James and Phyllis Slattery. She attended member of the Girls Athletic Associteams. After Thayer, she graduated from Stonehill College. Sue went on to serve as the Vice President of J.H. Slat-

David C. Grossack ’73

tery Insurance Inc. As an accomplished

David Charles Grossack, of

insurance broker and subject matter

Hull, MA, died on September

1978

20, 2017. David succumbed

expert, she held a number of advanced designations including Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter.

to a hard fought battle with heart and kidney failure

Theresa McIntosh ’78

despite the superhuman

Theresa K. "Terri" McIn-

efforts of the amazingly compassionate and

tosh, 56, of Onset, MA died

dedicated staff of the Brigham and Women's

September 3, 2017. She was

Hospital, Boston, MA.

born in Shelbyville, IN on October 19, 1960 and was

Sue was incredibly bright with a quick wit. She was an accomplished equestrian and loved to fish, camp and spend time outdoors. Sue was proud of her Irish heritage and loved traveling to the Emerald Isle. Susie had a huge

David was, first and foremost, a passionate

raised in Duxbury. She attended Duxbury

man. Several locales held special signifi-

Elementary Schools before graduating from

cance to him. He loved walking the beach

Thayer Academy in 1978. She then attended

in his hometown of Hull; he loved visiting

the University of Rhode Island.

less fortunate.

frequently to vacation; he was especially

Terri had a successful career in the real

A loyal friend, Sue was always there for

passionate about Israel, its people, history,

estate and home mortgage business. While

customs, and even geography, and he loved

living in Kingston, she was a member of the

spending as much time as possible floating

Recreation Committee.

his birthplace of Hawaii, returning there

in the Dead Sea. David graduated from Thayer Academy in 1973 and ended up

She is survived by two sons, her parents,

getting his J.D. from New England School

three sisters including Lisa McIntosh

of Law. Career-wise, David was passionate

Sampson ’77 and Jane McIntosh Hyland

about the law and serving his clients. There

’81, and eight nieces and nephews.

was no topic or client too controversial for David to vigorously defend. One notable legal issue for which he passionately worked were fathers in marital disputes who were

IN MEMORIAM: 1960s-1980s

She was born December 17, 1965. Sue

She was predeceased by her mother and

heart, often rooting for the underdog, and had a passion for supporting those

someone in need and was a wonderful mom to her many pets. Cheering for her beloved Red Sox, Patriots and Bruins was one of her favorite pastimes.

Sue is preceded in death by her father and her brother. She is survived by her beautiful and strong mother, her sisters Catherine M. Slattery ’84 and Sarah Slattery Sullivan ’91, and her brother

1983

Sean J. Slattery ’89. Sue is also survived by her nieces, nephew, cousins, aunts and uncles; extended family and

summarily denied child custody and visitation rights in ex parte proceedings (with-

Susan M. Slattery ’83

many loving friends whom will all miss

out the right to present their sides of the

Susan M. Slattery, CPCU

her dearly.

issue). David represented this group despite

of Abington, passed away

public biases against them. David's hobbies

on October 26, 2017 at the

included creating artwork and researching

age of 51.

(and discussing) history, current events, and geopolitical issues. Lastly, David was most

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

65

The Final

WORD

THE GIFT OF A PAINTING

“Bill Searle was my teacher, mentor, and dear friend. For our wedding Bill gave us this painting, All Transient Things. A few years ago Bill shared on his website the inspiration behind this beautiful acrylic landscape (see below). It is our honor to hold this magnificent treasure in our home. Thank you, Bill. You were so loved and will be sorely missed. Rest in peace.”

ANNI ZUKAUSKAS ’94 ANNI IS CURRENTLY THE ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS AND HEAD VARSITY GIRLS LACROSSE COACH AT THAYER

BILL SEARLE P ’85, ’87

“

ON HIS PAINTING, ALL TRANSIENT THINGS

This painting is a reminder how the here and now possesses much that is priceless, but, here and now is around for only a short time. I (try) to focus on the positive nature of people, places, and things, with an emphasis on enjoying what I experience and not to take anything, or, anyone, for granted. he scene in this painting, located on the Oak Bluffs side of Sengekontacket T Pond has been vastly disturbed and is impossible find, now. Therefore, the title, All Transient Things. Here today, gone tomorrow. But what we do retain, forever, are our memories of good times, good people, good places. Priceless.

66

Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 /

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look for this icon inside the magazine for related content online Thayer Magazine /// Winter/Spring 2018 68

THE MISSION OF THAYER ACADEMY IS TO INSPIRE A DIVERSE COMMUNITY OF STUDENTS TO MORAL, INTELLECTUAL, AESTHETIC, AND PHYSICAL EXCELLENCE SO THAT EACH MAY RISE TO HONORABLE ACHIEVEMENT AND CONTRIBUTE TO THE COMMON GOOD.