Thayer Magazine - Fall 2021 Issue

Thayer MAGAZINE Fall 2021

Beginnings

THE

B E G I N N I N G S I S S U E

Thayer's 9th Head of School Chris M. Fortunato on the start of a new year and his aspirations for the Academy.

P. 12

A BURGEONING PARTNERSHIP P. 8

AN OLD PROBLEM TACKLED ANEW P. 18

LOOKING THROUGH A NEW LENS P. 22

TELLING NEW STORIES P. 16

AN OFF-BROADWAY SHOW BEGINS! P. 21

A CHERISHED FAMILY ADDITION P. 52

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 Fall 2021

A NEW CHAPTER Following a June 16 groundbreaking ceremony (inset) that included outgoing Head of School Ted Koskores '70 P '10, '13, Board Chair Michael Joe P '17, '20, Middle School Director Galen Hamann, CFOO Julaine McInnis, and representatives from Bowdoin Construction Corp., work on the Middle School Transformation Project began in earnest this fall, with the demolition of the old L-wing and courtyard of the old Middle School.

READ THAYER MAGAZINE ONLINE: Scan this QR code to view this issue of Thayer Magazine online at ISSUU. To view all past magazine issues, visit: ON THE COVER Thayer Academy's 9th Head of School, Chris M. Fortunato P '26, '28, in front of Main Building.

T H AYE R

ACADEMY

2021-2022 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

BOARD OFFICERS Michael Joe P ’17, ’20, Chair Brenda Lyons P ’12, ’14, ’18, Vice Chair

www.thayer.org/magazine Using QR Codes with your mobile device

BOARD MEMBERS Danya Abrams Sr. P '20 Donavan Brown '01 James Cashman '73 P '19, '21

Open your mobile phone camera

Kevin Gill P '11, '13, '22 Jennifer Havlicek P '18, '21, '21 Kathy Horgan P '20 Greg Lally '92 P '22, '25, '26, '28

Leigh King Schwartz P ’21, Secretary

James Coughlin P '24, '26

Michael McNally P ’22, ’24, ’27 Treasurer

Guy Daniello P '22, '26

Julaine McInnis, Assistant Treasurer

Elaine DeLuca P '20, '21

Kenny Carberry ’08

Rob DeMarco '86 P '19, '21, '26

Chris M. Fortunato JD, MSW

Thayer Academy CFOO

Joseph L. Farmer P '23

Thayer Academy | 745 Washington Street | Braintree, MA 02184

Tap the banner that pops up

Aim your phone at QR Code

Brendan McDonough '87 P ’18, '22 Ex officio as President of the Alumni Board Head of School

P ’26, ’28

Send correspondence to: magazine@thayer.org

HEAD OF SCHOOL Chris M. Fortunato JD, MSW P ’26, ’28 CHIEF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Joanna Skoler Gilman ’86 P ’25, ’27

PRINCIPAL EDITORS Craig Salters ’86 P ’24

PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHERS Chris Bernstein, John F. Grant

Joanna Skoler Gilman ’86 P ’25, ’27

SUPPLEMENTAL WRITERS, PHOTOGRAPHERS & IMAGES

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

CHIEF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

Melissa Tuthill Forger ’92 P ’25, ’28, ’29

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, LAYOUT & DESIGN

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

Paul Kahn P ’27 CREATIVE DIRECTOR

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS PRINCIPAL WRITER Craig Salters ’86 P ’24 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

THE START OF SOMETHING BIG Incoming Upper School students from the Class of 2025 Bella Mazzocco, Eva Donnellan, Ava Palma, Rowan Mottau, Reilly Fraga, Kenzie Murphy, and Grace Wainwright are all smiles on the first day of school.

Rebecca Delaney, Paul Kahn P ’27, Jamie Fitzpatrick, Adobe Stock, Depositphotos.com, Martha Stewart

Irvin Bailey, Julie Burke-Blanchard ’93, Deb Budde P ’10, ’12, Tara Corcoran ’88 P ’19, Kelly Hines P ’18, ’19, Karen Koskores P ’10, ’13, Tina Lim, Tiffany Macauley, John Murphy, Billy O'Dwyer ’02, Brad Peterson ’11, Lesley Leibowitz Snyder ’93 P ’23, ’25, ’28, Rachael Rouvales Vassalotti ’79 P ’07, ’11, ’12

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

3

AN AUSPICIOUS START TO THE YEAR After leaving Thayer following all-day photographic coverage of Homecoming 2021, Chris Bernstein, one of Thayer's photographers, felt he needed to return to campus for some inexplicable reason. He was glad he did, capturing a brilliant full rainbow arching over the Academy.

4

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

AN EMOTIONAL FIRST SCREENING Thayer's Hale Theater in the Center for the Arts (CFA) hosted the first live, in-person screening of A Father’s Kaddish: A Story of Love, Loss, Art & Ritual.

The 31-minute documentary film chronicles longtime Thayer Pottery Instructor Steven Branfman P ‘00, ‘02 in the year following the passing of his son, Jared Branfman ‘00, who died of brain cancer in 2005 at the age of 23. Chawans that Branfman created daily for a year were on display in the CFA lobby.

Read the full news story on the screening at thayer.org/fatherskaddish and visit the film's website at: www.afatherskaddish.com.

Ellen & Steven Branfman P ‘00, ‘02

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

5

Thayer P U B L I S H E D B I A N N U A L LY

MAGAZINE

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

Thayer Snapshots

2-5

- A New Chapter

2

Table of Contents

6

Letter from the Head of School

Chris M. Fortunato P ’26, ’28

Around Campus

8-11

- A Burgeoning Partnership

- New Faculty & Staff

- New Last Chapel Memorial Award - 9/11 Anniversary Reflection & Remembrance - Academy News & Highlights Timeline - Faculty Notes

Beginnings

7 8 9 9 10 11 11

Head of School Profile: Chris Fortunato P ’26, ’28 12-15

THE

B E G I N N I N G S

Excerpt from Convocation Remarks

13

Scholar-in-Residence: Tim McCarthy

15

Leadership Profile: Connie Yepez 16-17

I S S U E

Alumni Profile: Thomas Healy ’10 18-20 Alumni Profile: John Ambrosino ’97

Though the responsibility belongs to all of us to live, lead,

21

Alumni Profile: Ashley Oguadimma ’06 22-23

and learn with courage and caring, I want you to know

Alumni Profile: Michaela Robbins ’05

that I as your head of school will not only do all that is in

52

my power to model and encourage our commitment to treating each other well, I will also hold us accountable for doing so. You should expect that. I owe it to all of you and to Thayer to do that. And so please be clear, treating each other well in this community is not a suggestion.

Being good to one another is not optional...

- Head of School Chris M. Fortunato P ’26, ’28 from his 2021 Convocation address

Student Profile

24

End of the Year

25-35

- Ryan Chiari '22

-

Recognition Day 2021 Last Chapel 2021 Thayer's 144th Commencement Class of 2021 College Matriculation Senior Profiles from the Class of 2021

Thayer Athletics

- Class of 2021 NCAA Student-Athletes - Thayer Athletics Spring Highlights

36-39

36-37 38-39

Thayer Arts

40-43

Alumni House News & Notes

44-45

-

Upper School Fine Arts Virtual Middle School Art Exhibit

Showstoppers in the Middle School

Rocky Horror Show Live! Upper School Musical

- Grateful for the Journey - on Rosemary Crotty Lavelle ’45 - Thayer Alumni Legacy Photo

Class Notes

www.thayer.org/annualreport

44

45

50-51 55

57

Southworth Society Giving - Brad White ’77

In Memoriam

58-64

The Final Word

66

- Beam Signing by Thayer Middle Schoolers

6

40 41 42 43

46-56

- Thayer Weddings - Thayer Babies

The 2020-21 Thayer Academy Annual Report of Giving is affixed to the inside back cover of this issue. You can also access the Annual Report online at:

26 27 28-31 32-33 34-35

F RO M T H E H E A D O F SC H O O L

C H R I S F O R T U N ATO

JD, MSW P ’26, ’28

Dear Thayer Community, The start of a new school year is replete with possibilities. It presents an opportunity to honor and even aggressively own the best parts of our history while courageously committing ourselves to becoming better in the ways the world demands of us.

It was in that spirit that I assumed my role as Thayer’s ninth head of school — with pride, optimism, and gratitude for all who have made Thayer the exceptional institution it is and for all who will continue Thayer’s studentfocused mission of excellence, honorable achievement, and dedication to the common good. Across the Thayer community, I have witnessed a reverence for the core of what Thayer has always stood for — meaningful and trusting relationships among teachers and students — and also a brave yet humble willingness to continually improve, striving for both greatness and goodness.

We’ve begun this new school year in earnest with the ninth grade Camp Bournedale retreat, the spectacular production of Newsies, a spirited Homecoming, a moving Diversity Day celebration at the Middle School, the excitement over visiting researchers from Beneath the Waves, and an OMEGA Fall Family Fest brimming with warmth and community under the big tent on a beautiful fall evening. That this energy, camaraderie, and achievement are so strong during what is a third school year impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic is a testament to our community’s resilience, courage, and love of school. This is the Thayer spirit.

The future includes even more robustly bringing the world to Thayer by welcoming scholars, researchers, and artists-in-residence such as Harvard professor Timothy McCarthy, who has already begun to develop new leadership and communication curricular offerings for our students and faculty. It includes launching a roundtable series in which our Upper School students expand their worldviews by connecting with experts in a variety

of fields. It includes bringing great talent to our adult community, including Connie Yepez, our new Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, who supports our work to build a more connected community where each member feels a deep sense of belonging. It includes enhancing resources, curricula, plans, and culture to support the social/emotional well-being of our students and colleagues in ways that amplify learning. It includes transforming our Middle School into a state-of-the-art facility to allow our students, teachers, and programs to thrive. And it continues to include celebrating the achievements of our alumni after they leave Thayer, as can be seen by the profiles featured in these pages.

Yes, every school year offers the chance to both reaffirm the best parts of ourselves and our school and to explore what it means to be a great school now and in the future. With a proud history built by all who came before us and an exceptional group of people committed to making this school even better, I look forward to leading Thayer Academy to even greater heights and am grateful for your trust and partnership in this endeavor.

I invite you to be a part of the important work that lies ahead. This is only the beginning.

Warm regards,

Chris M. Fortunato JD, MSW

P ’26, ’28

HEAD OF SCHOOL, THAYER ACADEMY

7

AROUND CAMPUS

Thayer students working with Beneath the Waves to collect sawgrass samples from the ocean

A B U R G E O N I N G PA R T N E R S H I P

Thayer's Partnership with

THAYER JOINS WITH CONSERVATION NONPROFIT BENEATH THE WAVES

by Jamie Fitzgerald MANAGING DIRECTOR, BENEATH THE WAVES

This summer, Thayer welcomed ocean conservation nonprofit Beneath the Waves (BTW) onto campus.

Thanks to a generous donation from last year’s graduating class, BTW now has a full research lab on Thayer’s campus — equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for storing, processing, and analyzing their samples — as well as a full media suite. This collaborative program not only exponentially increases BTW's scientific capacity but also supports a team of high school and college-level interns during their summer research out of New England, providing opportunities for Thayer students and alums alike.

BTW has a strong history with Thayer Academy. Dr. Austin Gallagher '04, founded BTW in 2013. First introduced to sharks and the marine world in a 6th-grade biology class taught by Steve Sirrico P '98, '03, Gallagher’s education at Thayer went beyond the coursework.

“We were encouraged to find and explore our passions, something that we at BTW hope to provide to a new generation of Thayer students today,” said Gallagher. “At Thayer, I learned that I have a responsibility as a world citizen to help conserve and protect this vast, yet finite resource.

“Our Thayer partnership demonstrates a commitment to inspire and motivate a new generation of marine biologists. My years at Thayer were so formative for the career path I chose, and we want to be able to instill that passion, love of learning, and deep sense of connection to as many interested students as possible.”

This summer, Thayer students joined BTW on the open North Atlantic tagging highly migratory sharks and conducted some of BTW’s first-ever Blue Carbon research alongside scientists from the EPA and MIT. These students assisted with eDNA sampling and lab assays, helped deploy and analyze shallow and deep-sea BRUVs, tagged sharks, conducted aerial drone surveys, collected sediment cores, and carried out biodiversity sampling in the field.

8

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Learn more by visiting beneaththewaves.org

BY THE NUMBERS 8 interns worked this summer 3 current Thayer students 1 recent Thayer graduate 4 other interns from around the country

14

charters out tagging sharks

23 sharks tagged, measured and sampled 7 sharks satellite-tagged 2 species tagged (porbeagle and blue) samples collected for 40 water environmental DNA research

15

core samples taken and measured for Blue Carbon Project (joint venture with MIT and the EPA)

classes visited by a 5 Thayer research scientist in the fall

AROUND CAMPUS

N E W F A C U LT Y & S T A F F (L-R): Jeff King '04, Claire Gordon '13, Teresa Tenney, Tim Bernazzani, Sarah Miller, Adam Kuhlmann, Amy Perry, Mysha Kuhlmann, Carolyn Lucey, Brandy Fisher-Bailey P '28, '29, Irvin Bailey, Sarah Dubeau-Farley, Mary Rankin, Katie Riley, Connie Yepez, Justin Maloney Not Pictured: Jane McCarthy, Renee Forsythe

NEW LAST CHAPEL MEMORIAL AWA R D H O N O R S K I S H A WAT T S Thayer Academy has created a new Last Chapel award to celebrate the life and legacy of Kisha Watts, whose recent death shocked and saddened the community where she made such a lasting impact.

Watts, who was Thayer Academy Middle School’s first Black faculty member and served a variety of roles at the Academy from 2002 until 2010, died suddenly April 28 in Pasadena, California, where she had been working as Director of Admissions at Oak Knoll Montessori School. She was 40 years old.

A 2002 graduate of Williams College, Watts taught both English and science at the Middle School and was also Dean of Middle School girls. She served as an admissions officer and a diversity coordinator before further pursuing a career dedicated to the recruitment and admission of BIPOC students at private schools. Before Oak Knoll Mon-

tessori School, Watts served as Director of Multicultural Recruitment at the Taft School, Dean of Admissions at Cushing Academy, and Director of Admissions & Diversity at St. Francis School (Louisville, Kentucky).

Colleagues at Thayer remembered Watts as “a warm and thoughtful person” and “a top-notch professional” who advanced greatly the Academy’s efforts to promote a diverse and inclusive culture.

Beginning in the spring of 2022, the Kisha Watts Memorial Award will be given at Last Chapel, the Academy’s annual recognition ceremony, to that senior “whose own efforts have advanced the diversity, equity, and inclusion of Thayer Academy’s school culture.”

The award has already been fully funded by the Academy, but those wishing to make a donation in memory of Watts may do so by visiting thayer.org/give and specifying “The Kisha Watts Memorial Award” in the appropriate area.

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

9

AROUND CAMPUS

ABOVE: Matt Kane ‘95 and Tim Kane ‘02 spoke to Middle School students about their sister, Jennifer Kane ‘93, who was killed on 9/11.

ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11 BRINGS REFLECTION AND REMEMBRANCE

by Craig Salters ’86 P ’24

As did the nation and the world, Thayer Academy marked the twentieth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks by remembering those lost and seeking, even two decades later, to find some perspective on one of the worst days in United States history.

Both the Upper School and Middle School held events to mark the grim anniversary. The Middle School welcomed (via Zoom) Matt Kane ’95 and Tim Kane ’02, brothers of Jennifer Kane ’93, a Plymouth native, Villanova graduate, and certified professional accountant who worked for Marsh and McLellan on the 100th floor of the World Trade Center in New York City. She died as a result of that day’s first attack when hijacked Flight 11 crashed into the WTC’s north tower at 8:46 a.m. The Upper School welcomed Christie Coombs P ’12, widow of Jeff Coombs P ’12 and mother of their three children: Matthew, Meaghan, and Julia Coombs ’12. A Dedham native and Abington resident described as “a funny guy with a contagious smile and a goofy laugh,” Jeff Coombs died that day as a passenger on hijacked Flight 11.

“It doesn’t get any easier,” said Matt about the loss of his sister, “but we love to share and remember memories of Jen along the way.”

Those stories included how Jen, a camp counselor and lifeguard, saved a boy from drowning one summer. They included how she once was leading a cross-pond swim in Plymouth only to double back to make sure that her struggling cousin finished the race. And they described a person eager to get involved, to make a difference, and to laugh, especially at herself.

ABOVE: Christie Coombs P ‘12 urged Upper School students to honor the legacy of 9/11 through acts of kindness and service.

LEFT: A plaque outside Frothingham Hall honors the memory and legacy of Jennifer Kane ‘93.

“Sometimes it feels like Jeff has been gone a lifetime,” she told Upper School students who had not been born on the day she described so vividly. “Other times, it feels like he was just here.”

Coombs described for her audience details of the day etched in many memories forever: how the hijackers used box cutters to take over the planes that day, how the hijackers had never bothered to learn how to land a plane, and how they targeted cross-country flights to maximize the amount of jet fuel and, therefore, the amount of damage inflicted.

But she also spoke of how the Jeffrey Coombs Memorial Foundation has raised more than $1 million dollars over the years and helped numerous local families. And she mentioned how daughter Julia had first met her husband years earlier when they had both attended a camp for children who had lost parents to terrorism.

Coombs urged listeners to honor those lost on 9/11 not just on the day’s anniversary but always, and she urged them to do so through acts of kindness, service, and community.

“What better way to honor them than by being kind to someone?”

Coombs asked.

Both the Upper School and Middle School held moments of silence for all the victims of 9/11, including those lives lost or affected by the subsequent War on Terror and those lives lost or damaged due to the environmental hazards of cleaning up crash sites in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, DC, or Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

“She was a person you wanted to be around,” Matt said.

At the Upper School, Coombs offered a detailed description of the Sept.

11 attacks, the subsequent War on Terror, and Coombs family efforts to honor Jeff’s legacy by helping others in the community.

10

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Learn more about the Jennifer Kane Scholarship and Charitable Trust at: jenniferlynnkane.com Learn more about the Jeffrey Coombs Memorial Foundation at: jeffcoombsfund.org

SUMMER / FALL 2021

TA TIMELINE

F A C U LT Y N O T E S

AROUND CAMPUS

By Brooks Donnelly, Upper School History Faculty

MAY

Upper School Faculty Aidan Rooney P '07, '15 produces "Translating Haiti" event for the Massachusetts Poetry Festival

Five or six years ago, I became fascinated with Tiny Houses on Wheels (THOW) while watching Tiny House Nation on HGTV. I then started to sketch lots of different designs just for my own amusement with a vague idea that maybe I would build one as a retirement “cabin” that I could move around to visit different national parks and lakes around the country.

Thayer Academy Cum Laude Society welcomes 26 members

Then March 13, 2020, left us all at home. All day. Every day.

Ted '70 & Karen Koskores P '10, '13 are celebrated for their many years of service; the gallery is renamed "The Karen & Ted Koskores Gallery" in their honor

JUN

Thayer Academy hires Connie Yepez as its next Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

(See profile on p. 16)

Recognition Day and Last Chapel ceremonies are held on campus once again (see pp. 26-27) Thayer Academy's 144th Commencement celebrates the Class of 2021; retiring Head of School Ted Koskores '70 P '10, '13 gives the Commencement address (See pp. 28-31)

I decided that since I had so much free time with nowhere to go and no sets to build, maybe now would be a great time to actually build a THOW. I could build it and then move it up to my folks’ place in Vermont so that I could visit them but still have my own separate, fully functional living space.

So, that’s how my project began. I refinanced the house at a low mortgage rate and took out the money I had budgeted to build my THOW. It all seemed so simple at the time: get the money; buy a trailer; order lumber, windows, and appliances, etc.; and put it all together. I figured it was going to be a great pandemic-era summer project. I got all of the lumber, windows, and appliances without a problem, but the trailer itself did not arrive. It was expected in June, but it arrived in September … after the next school year had already started! Teachers were at Thayer every day, so that only left weekends for me to actually build the project.

As the year progressed, more and more supplies got delayed by COVID-19, so when June of 2021 rolled around and the Tiny House needed to be moved to Vermont, it was still not done. Currently, it has power (solar) and the composting toilet works, so I was able to stay in it for part of the summer. As the new school year begins, though, there remains some final detail work to be done, and the water and gas lines still need to be connected. So, almost a year later, I am still working on finishing it!

Editor's Note: In addition to his role as History teacher, Brooks Donnelly is known for his innovative set and lighting design on the Thayer stage.

On June 16, the official groundbreaking of the Middle School Transformation Project was held (See p. 2)

SEP

New Head of School Chris M. Fortunato P '26, '28 kicks off the year with Convocation remarks (See p. 13) Homecoming 2021 is held on campus - a brilliant return to some sense of normalcy

OCT

The first in-person screening of A Father's Kaddish is held in the CFA's Hale Theater (See p. 5)

NOV

Students, faculty, staff, and trustees sign a steel beam that will be part of the new Middle School Transformation Project (See p. 66)

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

11

Beginnings

THE

B E G I N N I N G S I S S U E

HEAD OF SCHOOL PROFILE

E V E RYO N E H A S T H E I R OW N S TO RY New head of school commits to an Academy where students are known, connected, and prepared

N

| by Craig Salters ’86 P ’24

New Head of School Chris Fortunato P ‘26, ‘28 is justifiably proud of his bachelor’s degree from Harvard College … and his law degree from Harvard Law School … and his master’s degree in social work from Boston University. They play a big part in who he is.

(including my wife) who were truly called to help young people create

But if you really want to get him talking on a brisk fall day, ask him

In his role working with and reaching out to teenagers in Newton,

about the nearly 10 years he spent working at a Newton-based nonprofit

Fortunato spent many nights in teen centers and in local parks and many

dedicated to assisting underserved youth. It was there, he insists, that

days at area schools and in local courthouses. He worked with hundreds

he more fully discovered, experienced, and dedicated himself to a

of families, many of whom were struggling with substance use and

guiding principle that has shaped his life’s work in serving and educating

mental health issues, domestic violence, food and housing insecurity, and

young people — namely, that trusting relationships between adults and

a variety of other difficult realities. On paper, some of these individuals

students, the kind that allow students to courageously be and share their

and families had access to considerable help and resources, but they

authentic selves, matter most.

largely shared one thing in common: a profound feeling of being unseen

meaningful connections that empowered them to take advantage of great opportunities and also work through some very challenging times.”

Fortunato’s wife, Erin, is a Needham native and public health professional and educator currently earning her doctorate in that field. They have two children, Matt ‘26 and Katie ‘28, who both attend the Middle School.

and disconnected. That was something Fortunato in particular set out to “It was the most important professional experience of my life,” says Fortunato of his days working with at-risk youth in and around Newton.

“It was a living manifestation of my values, working with colleagues

12

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

address as both a professional and personal mission.

OPENING WORDS

EXCERPT FROM CHRIS'S 2021 CONVOCATION REMARKS

W E A R E T H AY E R ! A L L O F U S .

We are all a part of this community, with obligations to our own individual and honorable

“Life at its core is truly about trusting relationships and about feeling

achievements, yes, but also with a duty to the

seen and loved,” says Fortunato. “That’s the foundation of all of the

common good, to your classmates in your history

many great things young people can achieve. Everyone has their

course, to your teammates on the volleyball or

own story to write and share, but without trust and connection,

soccer team, to the teacher who goes the extra

young people especially can feel a profound sense of loneliness and

mile to make sure you understand differential

isolation even when there are a wealth of resources seemingly at their

equations, to your best friend performing

disposal. That gets in the way of everything — from their learning

alongside you in the fall musical, to the student

and developing a strong sense of self. We are called as educators and

you’ve never met before who hasn’t yet made

as a society to build and nurture communities, in and beyond schools,

his/her or their first Thayer friend and doesn’t

where young people feel a true sense of belonging and engagement.”

know who to sit with at lunch. And by the way, we all know we’ve been that person at some point, so when you see someone looking like they don’t

Life at its core is truly about trusting relationships and about feeling seen and loved.

Thats the foundation of all the great many things young people can achieve.

know where to sit at lunch and you have an open seat – please invite them to sit with you. Makes an unbelievable difference in someone’s life.

The best schools, and I’ve had the privilege of working at a number of them, they’re the ones in which people are focused on the common good, taking care of one another, having each other’s backs, treating each other exceptionally well, striving and even struggling to demonstrate respect and dignity. The best schools are places

Fortunato’s story continued in higher education at Providence

where in those moments when we fail, mess

College, where he served from 2008 until 2010 as the college’s dean

up, and disappoint one another, people help

of students and acting vice president for student affairs. From 2010

us to rise, find ways to build each other back

until 2013, he was dean of students at Harvard Kennedy School,

up and not tear each other down, hold people

leading the academic administration of the school’s Masters and Ph.D.

accountable for what they say and do but also

degree programs, admissions, student life, and career advancement.

extend forgiveness and grace. The best schools

(CONT'D P. 14)

are where people stand up, stand by, and stand behind each other. That’s what excellence looks like. That’s why I came here. It’s what I saw in

CHRIS'S ANSWERS TO THE PROUST QUESTIONNAIRE Listen to some of Head of School Chris Fortunato's answers to the Proust Questionnaire in a short video.

Scan QR code or visit

Thayer and what I plan for Thayer’s future. That’s what being the best looks like. And that’s what I believe it means when we say, 'We are Thayer.'

thayer.org/fortunato-proust

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

13

Immediately prior to coming to Thayer, he was the head of school at

To achieve that goal, Fortunato says that he will stand behind students,

Blair Academy, a boarding school in his native New Jersey. During his

staff, and faculty to more fully realize a school where trust and

seven-plus years at the helm, he led the school to new heights, including

relationships can grow in furtherance of excellence in all realms of a

six consecutive years of record application numbers. Curricular

school community — academics, athletics, the arts, service, and beyond.

innovations in technology, human rights, and leadership development were implemented, and he led academic collaborations with such

“The best schools have people who feel and demonstrate care for one

institutions as Harvard Kennedy School, Boston University, and Lehigh

another, who lift people up rather than tear them down,” he told

University.

students at Convocation. “That’s what excellence looks like.”

At Blair, Fortunato also saw success partnering with his development

It’s also what leadership looks like, a skill the Academy will bring into

team to increase the school’s endowment, especially with regard to

even sharper focus in the coming months. Fortunato will soon launch

financial aid, to support a diverse student body. The boarding school

a master class on leadership for students and adults in the community

also opened the Chiang Center for Innovation and Collaboration that

in partnership with Harvard professor Tim McCarthy, who has begun

Fortunato conceived and spearheaded along with a variety of other

his tenure as Thayer’s new Scholar-in-Residence on leadership and

major building projects under his watch.

communication (see next page).

Impressive bullet points all, but Fortunato sees them as in service to the

Fortunato is grateful for the opportunity to lead the Academy and

larger goal of connection and meaningful experience for students.

excited about educating students to become caring, connected leaders themselves.

“The goal,” he says, “is to help students discover and become their

14

best, most authentic selves. That’s the key to building lives of purpose,

Or, said another way, as Fortunato did when addressing students at

meaning, and fulfillment. And it’s the key to fostering educational

Convocation: “When we blend courage and caring, there’s nothing that

excellence.”

can stop us.”

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Beginnings

THE

B E G I N N I N G S I S S U E

A NOTE OF O P T I M I S M

SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE

FOR HEAD OF SCHOOL CHRIS FORTUNATO P '26, '28, courage is

Harvard Faculty Member Tim McCarthy takes on a role at Thayer

the strength to reveal one’s true self to the world, and Fortunato’s true self is

Tim McCarthy, a faculty member at

musical theater in particular.

Harvard Graduate School of Education and Harvard Kennedy School, will be a Scholar-inResidence for Leadership and Communication at Thayer Academy starting this school year.

“I’ve been a musician since I was four,” says Fortunato, who plays both the piano and the saxophone.

In fact, the New Jersey native cherishes a time during his undergraduate years at Harvard College when he wrote the story, music, and lyrics of an original play that he was able to produce before he graduated college. “Music composition is

PHOTO CREDIT: MARTHA STEWART

passionate about music in general and

“We are so fortunate that Tim McCarthy is bringing to Thayer his decades of experience as an award-winning faculty member, historian, and thought leader at Harvard University on topics including leadership, communication, human rights, and other public policy issues,” said Head of School Chris Fortunato P ’26, ’28. “Tim is a tireless advocate for and renowned teacher of a diverse array of the most talented graduate, college, and secondary students from across the globe.

something deeply special to me that taps into my creativity and love of storytelling,” he says.

While still a little busy scaling the learning curve of a new job in the time of a pandemic, Fortunato hopes to find time soon to connect with those in the Thayer community who share his love of music.

“As we endeavor to more fulsomely bring the world to Thayer to enrich our students’ learning, our partnership with Tim represents an important step forward in developing curricula and training for our entire community around the critical leadership skills our students need to navigate a changing global landscape.”

McCarthy was part of late August’s senior leadership retreat as well as full faculty and staff professional development sessions, leading “Engaging in Courageous Conversations and Learning.” And Fortunato has already asked McCarthy’s help to develop a master class on leadership for both faculty and students this year; he also wants to bring elements of McCarthy’s “Arts of Communication” course at Harvard to Thayer. McCarthy has already been a featured speaker at two roundtables this school year — the first on the topic of media bias and the second on LGBTQ+ history. He is also available to consult with faculty and staff who may be interested in tapping in to his expertise and experience.

McCarthy expressed gratitude for the invitation to become a part of Thayer’s mission.

CHRIS ON THE PIANO Watch Head of School Chris Fortunato playing "Bright Side," a composition he wrote as an undergraduate.

Scan QR code or visit thayer.org/fortunato-piano

“I’ve worked closely with Chris on a variety of rewarding initiatives and have great respect for his thoughtful and intentional approach to building community at diverse educational institutions,” McCarthy said. “Having guest lectured in Kristan Gately’s history class many years ago and having taught several of your alumni over the years, I have long admired the faculty, students, and staff at Thayer Academy.

“I am thrilled to begin this new role and excited about the work we can do together.”

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

15

Beginnings

THE

B E G I N N I N G S I S S U E

LEADERSHIP

PROFILE

NEW STORIES TO TELL

Q

...and new Director of DEI Connie Yepez wants to hear all of them

Question: If you want to join new Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Connie Yepez in the work of making everyone truly feel a part of the Thayer community, should you call her, text her, email her, or stop by her office?

Answer: yes.

| by Craig Salters ’86 P ’24

Our identities have many layers, says Yepez, with some aspects being visible and some invisible. Telling our individual stories can offer insight into who we are, and this is essential to building community and understanding.

“The first step in establishing a connection is learning and pronouncing each other’s names correctly. Names are so important,” she says. “It’s about calling someone what they want to be called.”

“I know it can feel risky to reach out,” says Yepez, who started at Thayer this summer after holding a similar position at The Park

Yepez, who identifies as Latina and multiracial, is proud of her racial

School in Brookline. “You are welcome to attend an event, email

and cultural heritage. “I want people to see that,” Yepez says. She says

me, or simply stop by. I hope you’ll engage with me in the way that

that when people profess to “not see” race, they may inadvertently

fits your style. I love when people show up at my door and say, ‘I

cause harm to people who feel that their race and ethnicity are a central

want to learn. I know I’ll make mistakes, but I want to learn.’”

part of their identity. “I don’t want that aspect of who I am to be denied or erased,” she says. “My Latinidad has so much to do with how

Yepez is clear about what the work is — “I want everyone to feel

I show up in the world.”

a sense of belonging, a sense that all of us are full members of our community and that there are no guests here,” she says — and clear

Yepez also believes it is important to acknowledge the great diversity

about how to get there: show up for one another, acknowledge our

that exists among BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color)

differences, and celebrate those differences.

individuals. “We (the BIPOC community) are not monolithic,” she says. “We don’t all think the same. We don’t all look the same.”

“We are not all the same,” Yepez says. “Each of us has a unique lived experience, and that’s kind of cool. What’s your story? What makes

Yepez adds: “Leading with curiosity, rather than making assumptions

you who you are?” she asks.

or promoting stereotypes, is how we can get to the core of diversity, equity, and inclusion, which is to honor the dignity and common humanity of all members of the Thayer family.”

16

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Beginnings

THE

B E G I N N I N G S I S S U E

Yepez’s story begins with her parents, Rodrigo and Lidia,

organized community celebrations and reflections, and

Ecuadorian immigrants who came to the United States in

helped to shape the school’s strategic DEI plan.

the late 1960s when Rodrigo joined the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. As a result of that military upbringing,

Looking ahead, Yepez wants to continue to implement the

Connie grew up moving several times to bases in Germany,

SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) Program

Panama, Alaska, Maryland, and Massachusetts. Yepez

at Thayer — a program whose entire goal, she says, is “social

credits that peripatetic childhood for exposing her to many

justice through storytelling.” She is also focusing time

different people, places, and cultures and teaching her to

and energy on moving Thayer’s Strategic Plan for Racial

adapt to different situations.

Equity and Justice forward, with particular emphasis on the representation and school culture buckets. She’s working with OMEGA (Organization for Minority Enrichment,

I'm moved by the enthusiasm that people have, and I feel the great love that people have for this institution. It's that love which is the basis for wanting Thayer to do better and be better.

Growth, and Awareness) at both the Upper School and Middle School levels while pursuing the goal of creating affinity groups for faculty and staff and adding to existing student groups. Yepez is also partnering with TAPA DEI Coordinator Sharisse Cail Perry P ’24, ’24 as the two work to facilitate SEED for both parents/guardians and faculty/staff.

On a more ongoing basis, Yepez says, she is supporting individuals as they build their DEI skillset and working to become a strong voice for inclusion in important Thayer discussions. Her goal, she adds, is to build bridges of trust in a community she’s still learning about.

And that experience has proven useful in her professional career, which includes work at Roxbury Preparatory

“I’ve been really excited since the day I was hired,” says

Charter School, Noble and Greenough School, Concord

Yepez. “I’m moved by the enthusiasm that people have, and

Academy, A Better Chance, and Groton School, from

I feel the great love that people have for this institution.

which she also graduated. At the Park School, where she worked for five years, Yepez strove to further cultural

“It’s that love which is the basis for wanting Thayer to do

competency through professional development and

better and be better.”

curriculum, advised student and parent affinity groups,

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

17

Beginnings

THE

B E G I N N I N G S I S S U E

A L U M N I

P R O F I L E

WHY WAIT?

For entrepreneurial alum, today is the best day to create tomorrow

| by Craig Salters ’86 P ’24

I

In 2017, Forbes Magazine named Hyliion Founder and CEO Thomas Healy ’10 to its prestigious “30-Under-30” list of those making significant worldly achievements before their 30th birthdays.

And just 24 at the time, Healy still had a

2010

Thomas Healy

Six years after its founding, Hyliion —

Fortunate? Perhaps. But forward-

a high-tech portmanteau of “Hybrid

thinking? Definitely. Led by Healy, Hyliion

Lithium Ion” — is transforming the

developed a full electric drive powertrain

commercial trucking industry with

that recharges with an onboard generator.

electrified powertrains for Class 8 semis

Unlike its competitors, Hyliion’s

(those with a Gross Vehicle Weight

powertrain system uses natural gas, which

Rating above 33,001 pounds; think “big

is stored on the trucks themselves and is

rig”) that reduce both fuel costs and

converted directly into electricity.

few years to spare before missing the cut.

greenhouse gas emissions. It currently has several hundred employees and hires

The use of natural gas to create electricity

Translation: Healy, the Easton native

approximately 50 new people per quarter.

for heavy-duty trucks solves a problem

Its trucks have logged millions of miles

that most people don’t know exists:

even as the company adds fleets both

namely, that while passenger cars can

nationally and internationally.

“go electric” by having their batteries tap

who in 2020 was named the youngest self-made billionaire (yes, with a “b”), doesn’t like to wait when a good idea strikes. He founded a few start-ups while still an undergrad at Carnegie Mellon University, where he earned dual degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Public Policy, and he founded Hyliion in 2015 while working on his master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at CMU.

18

CLASS OF

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

into the grid, doing so with a heavy-duty “When you start it, you really have no idea

commercial truck is wildly impractical.

how big it’s going to become,” says Healy of Hyliion, which is based in Austin,

“It would take a massive amount of

Texas, and went public in 2020. “We’ve

energy,” explains Healy before adding: “So,

been fortunate.”

let’s build a better mousetrap.”

Healy says Hyliion’s mission is

’09 began her freshman year in the

multifaceted, and one obvious goal is

Upper School. He remembers the

helping to solve the problem of climate

Toussaints — Middle School World

change. “Transportation is one of the

Languages Faculty Angela Toussaint,

largest producers of greenhouse gas

his advisor, and Middle School Grade

emissions,” he says, “so if we can have

6 Faculty Jeff Toussaint ’82, his varsity

an impact on that, then that’s a big

football coach — fondly, especially

step.”

during a school-sponsored trip to

Beginnings

THE

B E G I N N I N G S I S S U E

Quebec.

But another goal is an eminently practical one: lower trucking costs lead to lower prices of the goods they carry, which is good for the economy.

“We have an amazing opportunity to dramatically reduce greenhouse emissions and make trucking more efficient,” he says.

While the electricity obtained from natural gas is cleaner than average grid electricity, it’s still a fossil fuel with greenhouse gas emissions. Healy is a proponent of eventually using

We have an amazing opportunity to dramatically reduce greenhouse emissions and make trucking more efficient.

hydrogen as a fuel source — a holy grail of sorts because it’s clean and its only byproduct is water — but he

At Thayer, he was already what

points out that, unlike natural gas,

one might call “science-driven” but

hydrogen does not have an extensive

was also heavily involved in sports,

infrastructure for refueling. Hydrogen

playing both lacrosse and football. He

is also roughly four times the cost

continued his football career in college,

of traditional diesel fuel, has issues

punting for CMU, and even created

related to transport, and is currently

yet another start-up seeking to develop

produced using an extremely polluted

safer helmets to address the sport’s

process (Roughly 90% is made

concussion issue.

Learn more by visiting hyliion.com

this way; the other 10% is “green hydrogen,” i.e., produced using

“I was trying to get a broad range

renewable resources).

of experience at Thayer,” says Healy, who may be the first billionaire in

“Hydrogen is a ‘when’ technology and

the school’s history to open and close

not an ‘if ’ technology; I truly believe

curtains for a drama production.

that,” says Healy. “But it’s a really, really big question of ‘when.’ Our

Healy praised the ability of Upper

business model is: Why not start with

School Science Faculty Don Donovan

natural gas?”

P ’10, ’13 to develop student interest

in a topic and recalls literally trying Healy entered Thayer as an eighth

to build a better mousetrap — or,

grader when his older sister Christine

rather, a better mousetrap car, and a (CONT'D P. 20)

THOMAS HEALY FROM THAYER'S 2010 BLACK & ORANGE YEARBOOK. Football (Varsity): Lacrosse (JV captain, Varsity); Physics Olympics (captain); Robotics Club; Basketball (JV); Basketball manager; High Honor Roll

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

19

Beginnings

THE

B E G I N N I N G S I S S U E

P R O F I L E

STOCK PHOTO: F1 BRAINTREE

A L U M N I

FA S T & C U R I O U S It’s fair to say Thomas Healy ‘10 is driven to succeed, but it’s also accurate to say he succeeds at driving.

Healy loves to race cars, the faster the better, and he’s been doing so since the age of 8. That’s when Healy’s dad, who himself was into racing, brought the boy to what was then called F1 in Braintree and let

better rubber band airplane, etc. — as part

or college degree). You have that built-in

of Physics Olympics, an informal physics

support for risk-taking, so you can step

competition then held among area schools

back, recalibrate, and try something else.”

(its motto: Physics Fun for Everyone).

“I was hooked,” says Healy. “During my Thayer years, I pretty much

Healy also appreciates how Thayer

spent every weekend at a racetrack

“I see Thayer as a place that gets you ready

students can build relationships with

for the real world,” he says. “It gives you the

teachers in and out of the classroom.

driving something. It’s a passion.”

foundation, the work ethic, the creativity,

As an example, he points out that he

the strong relationships. In high school, it’s

knew Upper School History Faculty

about setting that foundation, and for me, it

Brooks Donnelly both as a teacher and a

was transformative.”

lacrosse coach, adding dimension to the experience.

However calculated those risks may be,

20

him drive his first go-kart.

And he’s still hooked, meaning that if there’s an engine involved, Healy wants to take a peek under the hood.

“Fortunately, trucks and cars are not

Healy is undoubtedly a risk-taker, but what

“At Thayer and at CMU, getting to

he loves about both his collegiate experience

interact with teachers, running ideas by

all that different — I mean, they’re

and his time at Thayer is that he had the

them, getting instant feedback, hearing

both vehicles,” says Healy. “I spend

support to take those risks.

a different or more creative approach to

my weeks working on the big

something, it’s just invaluable,” he says.

ones (at Hyliion) and my weekends

“While in college and at Thayer, there was

“You actually get to grow a relationship

driving the fun ones.”

this safety net,” says Healy. “It’s a time in

between you and a teacher. In a number

your life when if you fail, you’re still on the

of high schools and colleges, you don’t get

path to something good (i.e., a high school

that level of attention.”

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Beginnings

THE

B E G I N N I N G S I S S U E

THE SHOW MUST GO ON

A L U M N I

P R O F I L E

Trevor the Musical debuts Off-Broadway after COVID-19 Delay

W

| by Rebecca Delaney

When Trevor the Musical went curtain-up November 10 at Stage 42 in New York City, it marked a sign of hope and hard work for producer John Ambrosino ’97.

The cast was in rehearsals in the spring of 2020 for its off-Broadway run, but like the rest of the world, the show was shut down due to the pandemic.

“We got the call that the pandemic was happening, and at first we were going to have to limit the number of seats,” Ambrosino said, “but then we realized we were going to have to shutter all of Broadway and off-Broadway. We always had the intention of relaunching once the pandemic subsided.”

Ambrosino works as a creative producer with two other business partners in New York City. Together they develop musicals by finding works to produce, acquiring the rights to the intellectual property, finding writers and directors, and securing financial backing.

His path to producing Trevor the Musical began at a fundraiser for The Trevor Project, a national nonprofit that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and/or questioning (LGBTQ+) people under 25.

The Trevor Project was itself inspired by the short film Trevor, which won the 1994 Academy Award for best live action short film. When the producers and director of that film realized there were little to no resources for young people facing challenges similar to those the main character deals with in the film, they created The Trevor Project in response.

Ambrosino met the film’s producers and director at the fundraiser, learned about the film, went home, and watched Trevor. He said he knew immediately after watching Trevor that this film would be his next musical. The show takes place in 1981 and follows Trevor Nelson, a teen in suburbia dreaming of his future in show business and dealing with an embarrassing situation at school.

CLASS OF

1997

John Ambrosino

fine and performing arts at Thayer from 1988 to 1996, and Ann James, a former theater teacher at the Academy, as influences in his life.

“I remember talking with Ms. Luther in her office and asking if a producer can win a Tony Award,” John recalled. When she told him that, yes, producers can win for Best Play or Best Musical, Ambrosino said, “I think I want to do that.”

James, who took over the theater department during Ambrosino’s senior year, attended a developmental workshop for Trevor the Musical in Chicago.

As stages come alive across the globe with live performances after such a long hiatus, Ambrosino said he feels “extraordinarily hopeful” about the future of the theater.

“It’s very clear that what we’re all dying for is a return to live performances,” he said. “I think we now face an interesting consumer climate, and it will be exciting to rise to that challenge.”

Ambrosino’s love of the theater started early and flourished once he arrived at Thayer.

“At Thayer, I realized that there was this huge world out there for people like me,” he said. He remembered Donna Luther, director of

Learn more about the musical: Visit trevorthemusical.com

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

21

Beginnings

THE

B E G I N N I N G S I S S U E

A L U M N I

P R O F I L E

CLASS OF

2006

A NEW LENS

A

BIPOC alumna seeks to use her experience and expertise to give back to Thayer | by Craig Salters ’86 P ’24

Ashley Oguadimma ’06 has devoted her professional life to expanding educational access, and she credits her senior project at Thayer for steering her in that direction.

basketball team where her father, Cyril

Schools and Thayer) in opportunities

Jaundoo P ’06, served as the assistant coach

offered. Living in Mattapan and seeing the

to then head coach Rob Dixon ’79 P ’03,

disenfranchisement while experiencing

’16. Her cousin — Associate Director of

METCO and Thayer — there’s a personal

Admissions, Upper School Assistant Dean of

accountability to close that gap.”

Brandon Odom ’04 — was a talented player

After Thayer, Oguadimma graduated from

As a young girl, Oguadimma, then a

and leader on several of those teams. In

Spelman College, a women’s-only HBCU

addition to his other responsibilities, Odom

(Historically Black College or University)

now serves as head coach for the boys varsity

in Atlanta, before obtaining her Master’s

basketball team.

in Education from Boston College. She

Mattapan resident, attended middle school in the town of Lincoln, a wealthy suburb northwest of Boston. She was there as a student in the METCO program, a voluntary

Students, and Project Rise Executive Director

currently serves as the vice president of “In many ways, Thayer felt more like a family

Academic Services at Jewish Vocational

than a school to me,” says Oguadimma, who

Service in Boston (JVS). Founded in 1938

now lives in Milton with her husband and

to assist Jewish immigrants struggling to

Educational Opportunity.”).

their four daughters.

enter the American workforce, according to

She then attended Thayer for high school

A senior project volunteering in a public

and largest providers of adult education and

school in Boston proved a powerful,

workforce development services in Greater

if somewhat bittersweet, lesson for

Boston.” It has since expanded its scope, and

Oguadimma.

its current clientele hails from more than 90

program which places Boston residents in participating public schools (METCO stands for “The Metropolitan Council for

and recalls (now retired) English Faculty Jim King P ’01, ’04, ’06 and Sue Witt P ’01 as two of her favorite teachers. Oguadimma was a dancer, a singer in the chorus, and an active member of OMEGA (Organization for Minority Enrichment, Growth, and Advancement). She also managed the boys

22

Ashley Oguadimma

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

its website, JVS Boston “is among the oldest

countries and speaks roughly 50 languages.

“It was exciting to see Black students and Black teachers,” recalls Oguadimma, “but

“Education should be an opportunity that

there was a stark contrast (to Lincoln Public

everyone has access to,” says Oguadimma. “It

is literally the most basic benchmark. It’s the

“We lack a level of cultural competency

access card to almost all other opportunities.”

(to discuss the issue),” says Oguadimma.

“The question, as I see it, is: ‘How do we

At JVS Boston, Oguadimma runs the Adult

diversify our lens? How do we have the

Diploma Pathway program and the Bridges to

tough conversation despite how ready we

College and Career program. The first program

may feel, as a community?’”

is in collaboration with the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Obviously, she says, her role on the alumni

(DESE) and helps adults, many of whom are

board allows her to engage with BIPOC

immigrants or choosing a new life path, receive

alumni, but she also wants to connect more

their high school diploma (not a GED) via

with current BIPOC students, perhaps in a

nontraditional means or courses. The second

mentoring capacity. In fact, she emphasizes

program partners with Quincy College and

wanting to connect with all students

Bunker Hill Community College to pursue

because the work of diversity, equity, and

secondary education in areas such as biotech,

inclusion is for all students. Widening that

business tech, and general studies.

lens further, she adds, the work of creating racial equity and justice speaks to the heart

Education should be an opportunity that everyone has access to. It is literally the most basic benchmark.

It’s the access card to other opportunities.

REUNION W I L L F I N A L LY BE BACK ON CAMPUS!

of Thayer’s mission.

“We’re not preparing students for the world if we’re just preparing them for white spaces,” she says.

“As you become an adult, it becomes more and

WELCOMING BACK THE

more important to reach that milestone of a high school diploma,” explains Oguadimma,

0s, 1s, 2s, 5s, 6s & 7s

“but it also becomes more difficult due to competing priorities such as work schedule, the need for child (family) care and other general demands on your time.”

Oguadimma is, like Odom, a proud graduate of Project RISE, an academic enrichment program at Thayer for students in Boston neighborhoods and the Greater Boston area.

She is also a member of the Thayer Alumni Association Board. She describes her own time at the Academy as “a good overall experience with some notable challenges.” She became even more engaged with Thayer following the nationwide summer of racial discord, prompted by the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and, more locally, by the Black@ Thayer Instagram page that highlighted inequity within the Thayer community. She believes she is uniquely qualified to contribute positively to this important conversation.

ASHLEY FROM THAYER'S 2006 BLACK & ORANGE YEARBOOK. SENIOR YEARBOOK QUOTE:

"A heart that has no warmth holds no comfort, but a heart that's bound with love makes life worth living."

Honor Roll; Drama and Music; OMEGA; Environmental Club; ALLIES; Tour Guide; Choreography; Basketball (intramural); Soccer (manager)

SEE FULL LIST OF REUNION CLASSES O N PA G E 6 5 !

Check out

www.thayer.org/reunion for all the latest news & updates!

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

23

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Ryan at work in his garage. To date, he has scrapped almost a quarter of a million pounds of metal!

(238,128 lbs, to be exact!)

PUT THE PEDDLE TO THE METAL...

Where others see junk, this scrappy senior sees opportunity

| by Paul Kahn P ’27

One of the last remaining days of summer finds Ryan Chiari ’22 hard at work, stripping and separating different types of metals in his garage.

Buckets labeled copper, aluminum, brass, and steel sit on a nearby shelf. When the Thayer senior with the trademark long hair and backwards blue trucker’s cap needs to remove a particular section from a condenser unit, he grabs a reciprocating saw and grinds away. Parked in his driveway is a Ford F-250 with a “Rusty Ryan’s Scrap Metal” sign affixed to the door; today its bed is chock-full with an old furnace and random large and small objects that to the untrained eye look like a pile of junk.

Welcome to a typical day in the fascinatingly atypical life of a Thayer student whose day-to-day is the embodiment of “marching to the beat of one’s own drum.”

The process became a strangely wonderful admixture of science, economics, community service, and physical education. First, there was a deep dive into identifying the various types (and subtypes) of metals; then, there was a deciphering of the daily price variances for each type (scrap metal prices fluctuate daily, with clean copper being the most valuable and tin the least valuable); that was followed by a figuring out of the most efficient way to extract different metals from, say, a broken-down lawn mower or an air conditioner; and finally, there was the welcoming of the largesse of neighbors and friends to slowly A couple of Ryan's buckets of different metals collect enough scrap metal to warrant a trip to the local metal salvage yard (His two most frequented are in Brockton and Braintree.).

One of Ryan’s earliest memories is of unearthing old metal discards and trinkets on the remote Vermont island where his family spends most summers. Indeed, A trip to the scrapyard is itself it was there that the idea for his quite the experience. Here, At the scrap yard: In days, this massive pile salvage side hustle was sparked; buckets of specific, more will be completely melted down for repurposing as a ten-year-old, Ryan yearned nonferrous (and more valuable) for a golf cart to drive around the island, but without metals are weighed first. Then, the bulk items are the funds to buy anything, he brainstormed with his weighed using a large vehicle scale before being father, Upper School Math Faculty Tom Chiari dumped into massive piles. Amazingly, these piles P ’22, ’22, on possible ways to raise money. Mr. Chiari are completely melted down every few days, the recalled seeing random trucks that would drive around metals recycled into new things. the neighborhood on trash day, picking up discarded metal from people’s outgoing trash; there must, he Over the years, Ryan has collected some curious figured, be something behind that. And so began what items — the most memorable being a (defused) is now year eight of a lucrative learning experience Vietnam-War-era mortar shell. The biggest project involving the world of scrap metals — a lesson that has was an above-ground pool disassembly. evolved into quite the entrepreneurial enterprise.

24

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

“It took about four days and around five trips to the scrapyard to get everything over there,” he recalls. For that job, he had to enlist the help of not only his father but also his twin sister, Stella ’22.

Reflecting on his son’s endeavors, Mr. Chiari — who went from “chief fleet manager” (before Ryan started to drive) to just an occasional helping hand in the garage — notes: “It’s really a win-win-win. Tons of metal is saved from the landfill, materials are recycled and repurposed into new objects, and Ryan’s able to earn some money.”

Moreover, Ryan has learned to fix and repurpose other donated items to sell — or more often than not, give away. Giving back is indeed a big part of Ryan’s life, as he’s currently wrapping up his Eagle Scout project: designing and building a 192 sq. ft. pavilion structure in a neighborhood park in Randolph.

At Thayer, Ryan has been active on the track and field team (having broken the longstanding Thayer pole vaulting record — see pg. 39), has served as a captain of the cross country team the past two years, has used his skills to help with stage crew all four years at the Upper School, and has been a peer advisor. He has applied to a couple of (no surprise) non-traditional college options for next year.

As Ryan puts it, “It’s like the saying goes, ‘One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.’”

And as he wraps up his Thayer career, the future indeed gleams as brightly as a shiny new piece of copper. It’s a future that promises an ever-interesting mix of service and entrepreneurship ... and Ryan being Ryan.

End of the Year

E N D - O F - T H E -Y E A R E V E N T S

▲

Recognition Day

▲

Last Chapel

▲

Commencement

▲

College Matriculation

▲

Senior Profiles

P. 26

P. 27

PP. 28-31

PP. 32-33

PP. 34-35

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

25

3

4

1 5

2

6

7

8

Recognition Day 2021 1

Gabriella Monteiro '25 with Jeff Toussaint '82 after receiving a Recognition Day award.

2

Recognition Day Speaker Andy Gibson P '21, '22, '25, math faculty member, exhorts his students while providing quite a few laughs.

3

Top Scholar Emily Bunn '25 gives the farewell address to her classmates.

4

Middle School Director Galen Hamann welcomes the assembled throng.

5 6

26

Outgoing Head of School Ted Koskores '70 P '10, fondly congratulates retiring faculty members Peter Robarts P '01, '04, '06 and Carter Harrison.

'13

7

Catherine Woods '25 smiles after receiving her Recognition Day certificate.

8

Dylan Butler '25 offers the benediction at the end of Recognition Day.

9

The new graduates recess at the conclusion of the ceremony.

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

9

Recognition Day took place on June 10 in person on the Teardrop of Main Campus for the very first time for Middle School graduates and family members. Other classes were able to view the ceremonies via a livestream feed on a windy but glorious summer day.

1 4

2

3

5

6 9

7

8

Last Chapel 2021

The Upper School awards assembly tradition of Last Chapel, held via taped video last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, returned to Alumni Gym on June 11 for all seniors and those underclassmen due to receive awards.

10

1

Stella Chiari '22 and Abby Golden '22 smile behind their masks prior to the start of Last Chapel.

2

Myles Wilson '21 fist-bumps a classmate while walking out with fellow seniors following the ceremony.

3

Quinn Havlicek '21 listens to the Last Chapel addresses.

4

Samson Okunlola '23 receives one of his two prizes at Last Chapel.

5

Upper School History Faculty Larry Carlson P '02, '05, '10 closes the ceremony as he always does with a rendition of "Thayer, Thayer, Forever."

6

Thayer Science Faculty Jamison Smith delivers the Last Chapel speech.

7

Aly Mantville '24, Rebecca Rudolph '24, Abigail Greenough '24, Sebastian Keleher '24, Katelyn Sentnor '24, Teri Homicile '23, and Matt Miller '23.

8

Drew Bennett '21 addresses the crowd.

9

Zac Gondelman '22 shakes the hand of Head of School Ted Koskores '70 P '10, '13 after receiving a prize.

10

Alena Mulhern '22, Maddie Stearns '23, Katie Wipf '23, and Journey-Ade King '21.

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

27

End of the Year

Commencement T H AY E R ' S 1 4 4 T H C O M M E N C E M E N T | J U N E 1 2 , 2 0 2 1

H A V E FA I T H I N Y O U R S E L F G O I N G F O R W A R D Outgoing Head of School Ted Koskores delivers a memorable Commencement speech to the community

Thayer Academy held its 144th Commencement exercises June 12 and made a little history in the process with 139 graduates, its largest class ever.

The ceremony was held in person on the Teardrop, and while the weather was far from picture-perfect, graduates and guests were happy to have avoided the rain earlier in the day. More to the point, they were grateful to be together.

“Class of 2021, we are a community and family always,” said Jefferson Driscoll ’21, who offered the invocation. “Thayer, Thayer forever.”

Senior Speaker Anna Bagley ’21 offered a mix of humor and hope in her remarks. She urged her classmates to “be relentlessly kind” and told them: “I can’t wait to brag that I know you.”

Valedictorian Vinh Tran ’21, who started at Yale this fall and boasted a 4.5 GPA at Thayer, told the story of hearing “grheumatism” instead of “rheumatism” during a freshman spelling bee … to predictable results.

“You will fail because failure is a part of life,” said Tran, who added that finding those moments of joy and laughter is what makes life truly meaningful.

Head of School Ted Koskores ’70 P ’10, ’13, who retired over the summer after 18 years at the helm of his alma mater, served as this year’s Commencement speaker. He spoke of his own time at the Academy before calling the school a place of support and affirmation, singling out faculty and staff as the primary reason. He told the graduates to hold on to the discipline and confidence that they’d acquired over their time at Thayer.

“Don’t allow anyone to shake that faith in yourself,” he said.

Koskores also warned that the polarization our society faces is dangerous because it stops people from truly seeing one another and working together.

“It can all come undone,” said Koskores, whose tenure as a teacher included time in Tehran during the Iranian Revolution. “It takes an act

28

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

| by Craig Salters ’86 P ’24

of will to hold on to those things that are dear to us.”

Thayer Academy Board of Trustees Chair Michael Joe P ’17, ’20 conferred diplomas to the graduates. He told the class that the resilience it displayed during the COVID-19 pandemic “is a testament to you, your parents, and Thayer Academy.”

One additional highlight of Commencement was Arts Faculty and Gallery Director Karen Koskores P ’10, ’13 receiving the last diploma on behalf of her art student Amanda Zhang ’21, who was watching remotely from her home in China.

Earlier in his remarks, Koskores noted how fitting it was that he would be handing the last diploma to his wife and fellow retiree to mark “a career we have traversed together.”

The benediction was offered by Layla Claybourne ’21, who reflected upon the years of love, challenges, and support that have shaped the Class of 2021.

“We are blessed and truly grateful,” Claybourne said.

COMMENCEMENT PRIZES 2021 NANCY DINATALE TAYLOR AWARD MIKAILA KITCHEN

SENIOR SPEAKER ANNA BAGLEY '21

VALEDICTORIAN VINH TRAN '21

CHARLES R. MANGAT-RAI PRIZE FOR COMPUTER PROGRAMMING OLIVIA NOREKE GIOVANNI MARINILLI

THAYER ACADEMY OUTSTANDING MALE ATHLETE AWARD MYLES WILSON THE MAUREEN E. BUCKEN GIRLS ATHLETIC AWARD CASSANDRA DAVIDSON THE THOMAS J. BERRY III AWARD VINH TRAN GILBERT A. BOOTH AWARD LILLY BRADLEY CHRISTIAN MONTURIO WARD S. DONNER AWARD JOHN CARBONE MIKAILA KITCHEN

HEAD OF SCHOOL TED KOSKORES AWARDS THE FINAL DIPLOMA FOR THE CLASS OF 2021 TO KAREN KOSKORES (STANDING IN FOR GRADUATE AMANDA ZHANG '21, WATCHING FROM CHINA)

There are going to be bumps in the road. There'll be times when you will discover that your skills, your capacities did not quite meet the task in front of you; when you're going to have to get up and figure a different way of doing it. And there'll be times when you're going to enjoy tremendous successes.

The most important thing, however, is to maintain confidence in yourself, have faith in yourself going forward. And don't allow anything or anyone to shake that faith in you.

OUTGOING HEAD OF SCHOOL & COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER TED KOSKORES '70 P '10, '13

LAYLA CLAYBOURNE '21

JEFFERSON DRISCOLL '21

PHOEBE LEE HOSMER FOREIGN LANGUAGE PRIZES KATE PULGINI SEAN WALLACE JOHN CARBONE LEIGHTON S. TOWER HISTORY PRIZE MEGAN BOWEN LOUISE E. SAUL AWARD FOR ENGLISH OLIVER VONNEGUT SIDRA ESCHUAZIER

HELEN ALDEN BREEN DRAMATICS AWARD AVA CLANCY LAYLA CLAYBOURNE E. IONE LOCKWOOD MUSIC AWARD CHRISTOPHER CARRABES SIDRA ESCHAUZIER

THE JOHN M. RODOCANACHI ART PRIZE SARAH NAANAA NATHANIEL AUGUSTINE THAYER SCHOLARSHIP VINH TRAN JOTHAM B. SEWALL PRIZE VINH TRAN THE WALTER AND PRUDENCE ABELL DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD JEFFERSON DRISCOLL JOURNEY-ADE KING HEAD OF SCHOOL AWARD ANDREW BENNETT II JOVANNA WALKER

MAURICE R. SEYMOUR PRIZE FOR MATHEMATICS SAMANTHA HUGHES

SENIORS MICHAEL KERR, JOURNEY-ADE KING, AND REY YU Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

29

CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2021 (L-TO-R): ANDREW BENNETT, ALLIE WETTERBERG, MATTHEW WEBER, JAKE OLSEN, CASSANDRA DAVIDSON, PATRICK BORGMAN, AND SEAN WALLACE

SENIOR SOPHIE BUTNER

Indeed, our journey at Thayer has come to a close, but at every end, there is a new beginning, through our unity and strength. We have studied, trained, and even lived through a pandemic, Class of 2021.

We are community and family. Thayer, Thayer forever.

- JEFFERSON DRISCOLL '21 - INVOCATION

Always try to find the moments that make you laugh, the moments that bring you happiness, the moments of openness and unexpected joy.

I don't care if I fail over and over again, as long as I'm enjoying the journey, because if you're not happy during your journey, then you won't be happy when you finally reach the destination.

So as we end our journey here as Thayer students, I urge you to never forget the happy memories you've made here. I know I won't.

- VINH TRAN '21 - VALEDICTION SENIORS PETER KRAMER, MICHAEL KERR, CHRISTIAN MONTURIO, ZACHARY GLASS & JOSEPH KRAMER

30

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

RETROSPECTIVE

SENIORS E.J. FOLEY AND ANDREW SEYMOUR

SENIORS EMILY ENGLISH AND MIKAILA KITCHEN

SENIORS MYLES WILSON, JOVANNA WALKER, JOURNEY-ADE KING, AND LAYLA CLAYBOURNE

It takes a little while for a place to go from a random stop in your journey to a home. For me, it took 139 students showing me relentless kindness every day. But hopefully it takes a little less for you.

Whatever it takes, though, I promise the shift will come, and until it does, know that you have the friends right beside you right now. They want you to succeed and they know you will. You're all off to do great things. I can't wait to brag about knowing you...

- ANNA BAGLEY '21 - SENIOR SPEAKER

CLASS OF 2021 GRADUATES ANGIE LONIGRO, ALLY SENTNOR, AND KAELEN CHANDLER SHARE A LAUGH PRIOR TO THE COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

CLASS OF 2021 GRADUATES SIDRA ESCHAUZIER, GIOVANNI MARINILLI, GRACE QUEALY, OLIVIA NORECKE, KEVIN TRAVIESO, AND ETHAN WILSON

JUDITH WALKER '21 PROUDLY DISPLAYS HER THAYER DIPLOMA

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

31

Seniors 2021 College Matriculation

Thayer Academy's

Class of 2021

College Matriculation

State-by-State 5 37 Massachusetts

7

North Carolina

4

Pennsylvania

2

Alabama

1

Tennesee

22 New York

5

California

3

Indiana

2

Colorado

1

Scotland, UK

11 Florida

5

Washington, D.C.

3

Maiine

2

Maryland

10 Rhode Island

4

Louisiana

3

Texas

1

Georgia

8

4

New Hampshire

3

Virginia

1

Missouri

Connecticut

Michael Anastos Lillian Arends Charlotte Astley Anna Bagley Nicole Barry Ethan Bartletta Andrew Bennett Isabella Bodio Patrick Borgman Barry Bourassa III Megan Bowen Lillian Bradley Alyssa Britko Madison Burke Sophie Butner John Carbone Arianna Carden Christopher Carrabes Casey Cashman Quinn Cashman Kaelen Chandler Leila Chapman Ava Clancy Layla Claybourne Grant Coldren Andrew Collins Caroline Corcoran Cassandra Davidson Justin DeLuca John DeMarco Thomas DeMatteo Eden Donnellan Jefferson Driscoll Emily English Sidra Eschauzier

32

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Stonehill College Trinity College Barnard College University of Maryland The University of Alabama Tulane University of Louisiana Colby College Providence College Southern New Hampshire University Wentworth Institute of Technology University of Virginia Columbia University Boston University New York University Syracuse University Hamilton College University of Miami Boston College The University of Tampa Nichols College University of Richmond Marist College Bates College Clark Atlanta University Fairfield University Wentworth Institute of Technology Boston College Skidmore College Dickinson College Providence College Trinity College Northeastern University Boston College Boston College Wellesley College

Matthew Fallon Peter Farley Shaylin Farley Erin Farmer Ellen Fideli Margaret Fleck Eric Foley Richard Foresteire III Kaitlyn Freeley Kevin Freeley Hobey Galvin Olivia Garelick Victoria Gibson Allison Gilbert Zachary Glass Eileen Gooding Emmett Griffin Vincent Grillo IV Shaye Haggerty Andrew Havens Cass Havlicek Quinn Havlicek Caitlin Hayes Kendall Hayes Sam Hess Emma Hoffman Samantha Hughes Sophia Karnolt Aidan Kealy Lucinda Keller Claire Kennedy Matthew Kenney Michael Kerr Journey-Ade King Elizabeth Kirk

University of Massachusetts (Dartmouth) University of Colorado Boulder Providence College Wake Forest University Purdue University Syracuse University Merrimack College Endicott College College of the Holy Cross University of Maine The University of Tampa Southern Methodist University Catawba College Syracuse University Quinnipiac University Saint Anselm College College of the Holy Cross American University Tulane University of Louisiana Syracuse University Trinity College College of the Holy Cross University of Miami The University of Tampa Allegheny College Elon University Massachusetts Institute of Technology The University of Alabama Tulane University of Louisiana Scripps College Trinity College University of Notre Dame Wentworth Institute of Technology Howard University Boston College

4 37

22

8

4

10

2 3 3 2

5

1 7

THAYER ACADEMICS: COLLEGE MATRICULATION | CLASS OF 2021

3

1 2 2

3

1

4 11

Mikaila Kitchen Andrew Klaff Theodore Kostakos Joseph Kramer Peter Kramer Megan Kream Leonie-Louise Kuehberger Grace Kuropatkin Salvatore LaRosa Angeli LoNigro Lydia Loucas Ryan Manning Giovanni Marinilli Michael Marshall Jr. Quinn McConnaughey Melanie McCue Katherine McDevitt Maximillian McGlowan Matthew McLoy Jr. Luke Milano Christian Monturio Grace Muir Jack Mulroney Sarah Naanaa Olivia Noreke Healy O'Donnell Jacqueline O'Leary Jake Olsen Michaela Pace Christopher Pappas Sonya Penanhoat Chase Perry Kate Pulgini Grace Quealy Taylor Roland

Georgetown University Elon University Jacksonville University Providence College Providence College Boston College Elmira College University of Rochester St. Lawrence University Santa Clara University St. Lawrence University Union College Rice University Bryant University Providence College University of Miami Boston College University of Massachusetts - Boston Gettysburg College Pitzer College U.S. Military Academy Preparatory School Stonehill College University of Miami New York University Georgetown University Santa Clara University College of the Holy Cross Worcester Polytechnic Institute Providence College Trinity College Tulane University of Louisiana Salve Regina University Boston College Dartmouth College St. Lawrence University

David Romaine Bella Roppolo Jane Salon Margaret Schwartz Allyson Sentnor Andrew Seymour Matthew Steffan Abigail Stubelis Matthew Sullivan James Swent IV Brendan Taylor Daniel Teixeira Vinh Tran Kevin Travieso Alyssa Truckenmiller Lindsay Tucker Connor Valois Matthew Vandam Evan Vieira Mark Vonnegut Jovanna Walker Judith Walker Sean Wallace Reedie Warwick Matthew Weber Allie Wetterberg Ann Catherine Wichern Caroline Williams Ethan Wilson Myles Wilson John Wipf Chengrui Yu Bo Zhang Zhiyu Zhang

Boston University University of Maryland - Baltimore County Colgate University Indiana University University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill High Point University Emmanuel College Wake Forest University New Hampton School University of St Andrews Florida State University Bryant University Yale University Northeastern University University of Central Florida Boston College Belmont University Union College Massachusetts Maritime Academy Tufts University George Washington University Saint Joseph's University Colgate University Washington and Lee University Southern Methodist University Boston College University of Colorado Boulder University of Miami Worcester Polytechnic Institute Merrimack College University of Southern California Washington University in St Louis Boston College Syracuse University Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

33

Seniors 2021 Senior Profiles

Vinh Tran ’21 Varsity Swimming & Diving (Captain), Varsity Tennis, Class Officer, Jazz Combo Hometown: Randolph Attending: Yale University

sheer number of opportunities at Thayer allowed me “ The to fully pursue my interests. Through Mr. Donovan and ISR

(Independent Science Research), I had opportunities to research neurodegenerative disease using computer science in labs. Through my positions as a class officer, peer advisor, and teaching assistant for a programming class, I’ve gained important communication and leadership skills. As a result, I’ve learned to balance a heavy workload schedule.

”

Lilly Bradley ’21 Varsity Cross Country (Captain), Varsity Track & Field (Captain), Peer Advisor Hometown: Boston Attending: Columbia University

has taught me how to manage my time and my “ Thayer priorities extremely well. Thayer has also provided me with the chance to pursue my interests at a high level. I believe that all of my experiences at Thayer have prepared me well for my next step in life.

”

34

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

See more senior profiles from the Class of 2021 (as well as past years) at: thayer.org/studentprofiles

Jefferson Driscoll ’21 Perfect Pals (President), Special Olympics (Head Coach), Students Advocating Life Against Substance Abuse (President), Global Scholar, Voice Magazine Hometown: Milton Attending: Boston College

most unique quality of Thayer is the “ The relationship between students and teachers.

I’m proud to say that I’ve built a family here, and I will always carry it with me!

”

Jovanna Walker ’21 OMEGA (President), Global Scholar, Lead TAPAWS Peer Tutor, Peer Advisor, Benelli Writing Center Fellow, Voice Magazine Editor, Jazz Combo Hometown: Hyde Park Attending: George Washington University

is unique because of the genuine sense of community you can “ Thayer find anywhere on campus. Everyone comes from different backgrounds, but you’re destined to find someone who is interested in the same things you are. Also, there are so many opportunities available to students in all areas. Whether you’re passionate about law, the arts, athletics, or even board games, there’s a course or club for you.

”

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

35

Athletics TIGERS IN THE NCAA

NCAA Student-Athletes from the Class of 2021 These 31 Thayer student-athletes are playing NCAA sports around the country this year.

ATHLETICS Lillian Arends

Lilly Bradley

Cassie Davidson

Trinity College

Columbia University

Skidmore College

Field Hockey

Cross Country / Track

Thomas DeMatteo

Emily English

Trinity College

Boston College

Lacrosse

Football

James Foresteire Baseball

Endicott College

36

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Sam Hess

Football

Allegheny College

Justin DeLuca

Basketball

Football

Dickinson College

Matt Fallon

E.J. Foley

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

Merrimack College

Baseball

Soccer

Claire Kennedy

Elizabeth Kirk

Trinity College

Boston College

Hockey

Lacrosse

Mikaila Kitchen

Theodore Kostakos

Joseph Kramer

Peter Kramer

Georgetown University

Jacksonville University

Providence College

Providence College

Lacrosse

Leonie-Louise Kueberger Hockey

Elmira College

Luca Milano Football

Pitzer College

Lacrosse

Grace Kuropatkin Soccer

University of Rochester

C.J. Monturio Lacrosse

U.S. Military Academy West Point

Evan Vieira

Judith Walker

Massachusetts Maritime Academy

St. Joseph's University

Baseball (& Football)

Track & Field

Hockey

Michael Marshall

Basketball

Bryant University

Chase Perry

Lacrosse

Salve Regina University

Reedie Warwick

Lacrosse

Washington and Lee University

Hockey

Quinn McConnaughey

Jake McLoy

Providence College

Gettysburg University

Lacrosse

Lacrosse

Bella Roppolo

Ally Sentnor

Soccer

Soccer

University of Maryland Baltimore County

University of North Carolina

Ethan Wilson

Myles Wilson

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Merrimack College

Wrestling

Football

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

37

Athletics 2021 HIGHLIGHTS

1 2

3

5

4 6

38

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

7

Athletics 2021 HIGHLIGHTS

8

9

10 11

(FROM THE FRONT OF THE BOAT TO THE BACK):

1

Anthony Frank ’22, Liam Carey ’22, Lindley Day ’22, Isabella Richter ’23, and William Kourafas ’23 train on the water.

2

Alena Mulhern '23 takes some swings in the on-deck circle.

3

Henry Fan ’24 surveys the green before putting.

4

Martin Nyagilo ’24 selects a discus to throw during a meet.

5

Matthew Kenny ’21 rockets a shot on goal during a spring game.

6

Mary Costello ’23 serves during a spring match.

7

Taryn Madsen ’24 (FOREGROUND) and Aoibhe Gormley ’23 are off with the starting gun.

12

8

Olivia Walker ’23 begins her approach during the javelin competition.

9

Terri Homicile ’24 puts the shot during a meet.

10 Ryan Hawley ’23 throws a fastball

during a game.

11

Izzy Amonte ’23 readies a pass during a girls lacrosse game.

12 Ethan Wilson ’21 and Lilly Bradley ’21

run on Sawyer Track.

RECORD BREAKER!

13 The girls varsity lacrosse team

celebrates after another dominating victory on their home field.

13

Congratulations to Ryan Chiari '22, who broke Thayer Academy's record in the pole vault on Friday, May 31, 2021, clearing 12 feet, 7 inches! The record was previously held by Brian Donovan '10 (son of Upper School Science Faculty Don Donovan P '10, '13), who set the record in 2009.

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

39

Arts Upper School Visual Arts

2

1

Upper School Visual Arts 3

4 6

7

1

Henry Fan 24

2

Alena Cetkovic ’23

3

Haley Miller ’23

4

Claire Fideli ’23

5

Madison Burke ’21

6

Julia Pickel ’22

7

Josephine Brown ’24 5

40

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Arts Middle School Visual Arts

A V I RT UA L A RT E X H I B I T I N T H E M I D D L E S C H O O L

By Destiny Palmer, Middle School Arts Faculty

The virtual art exhibit was a way for student work to be seen. About eight years ago, I came across a company who had created an online platform that allows you to build a realistic virtual space. I used it previously for a course I was teaching about exhibitions. I have brought this platform with me everywhere as a teacher because it just makes seeing art accessible. During the pandemic, this was an easy solution. I first used this platform as an opportunity to take my students on a field trip to see art in a “gallery.” I could create a space and fill it with the specific works we would be exploring.

Students could think about the themes of the work within a specific space. The art exhibition that we all know and love could still happen AND include almost all of the work that was created throughout the year. This is a great solution to be able to send to relatives that aren’t in the area, to display work that may be extremely small, and to accommodate a large amount of work. The Middle School Art Exhibition has over 200 works of art.

I think, pandemic or not, this was a great way to document all the art made, and am really excited to continue using technology in the art room.

GRADE 7 DRAWINGS OF LETTERS

PHOTOGRAPHY WING

ARTWORK FROM WINTER & SPRING

GRADE 6 POTTERY WORK

(LEARNING ABOUT POINT PERSPECTIVE)

OF THE VIRTUAL GALLERY

ART ELECTIVE CLASS

(AFTER LEARNING ABOUT POTTERY FROM VARIOUS COUNTRIES)

thayer.org/MSArtGallery2020 SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT TO EXPLORE THE VIRTUAL MIDDLE SCHOOL ART GALLERY!

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

41

Arts

SHOWSTOPPERS

TUESDAY, MAY 25, 2021

Middle School Performances

1

1

2

3

4

5

Aashrita Joga ’27 as a member of the Ensemble in "Belle"

Brendan Brosnan ’25 as Aladdin in "One Jump Ahead"

7

Reese McNally ’27, Compton Jones ’27, Katie Cedrone ’27, Seamus Healy ’27, Sidney Schneider ’27, and Ella Wenger ’27

9

7

Catherine Woods ’27 in "Watch What Happens"

Compton Jones ’27 in "Santa Fe''

8

4

Lexi Maraganore ’26 as Ariel and Kaden Taylor ’27 as Sebastian in the Little Mermaid's classic "Under the Sea"

6

2

3

Scarlett McMahon ’25 sings "I Know Things Now"

8

"Seize the Day" sung by the Ensemble (from all grades in the Middle School) Mary Keleher ’26 left, Scarlett McMahon ’25, and the rest of the Ensemble during the Middle School's rendition of "Gospel Truth" from Hercules

10 Meghan Sloan ’25 as Belle sings with the Ensemble during her title song "Belle"

9

5

6

10

42

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Arts Upper School Performances

1

2

1

3

4

5

6

2 7

The Rocky Horror programs doubled as newspapers The full cast and crew of Thayer's 2021 spring production of Rocky Horror Live! in Concert The opening number of the show: "Science Fiction Double Feature" Aerial view of the outdoor venue constructed just for this show

5

(L-to-R) Leo Eschauzier ’23, Charlie Solari ’22, and Jefferson Driscoll ’21 in "Hot Patootie" Jane Richard ’24 singing as part of the Phantom Quartette Marguerite Greene ’23 as Janet in "Over at the Frankenstein Place"

6

Marguerite Greene ’23

8 and Gavin Pevarnek ’22 as Brad and Janet in "Damn it, Janet" Amanda Fogel ’23, Ava

9 Clancy ’21, Summer

Perry ’21, and Sidra Eschauzier ’21 as "The Usherettes"

7 3

4

8

9

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

43

Alumni House NEWS & NOTES

Alumni House News & Notes Grateful for the Journey |

Loyal alum's bequest is the largest in Academy history by Craig Salters '86 P '24

Rosemary (Crotty) Lavelle ’45 and her husband, John Lavelle ’45, may have been the most well-traveled couple in Thayer Academy history, but they never forgot the school they both called home.

After Rosemary’s passing in March of 2021, The Academy learned that she had fulfilled her pledge to name Thayer as the sole beneficiary of her estate. The resulting gift of more than $1.2 million makes hers the largest bequest in Thayer history.

Rosemary became lifelong friends with John in elementary school and became his classmate in the fall of 1941 when they were both freshmen in the Upper School. She graduated Thayer Cum Laude, went to Wellesley College, and became a service representative and manager at New England Telephone. John, also of Quincy, attended Harvard after Thayer and became a longtime employee at Liberty Mutual Insurance Company.

In a 2015 interview, Rosemary made clear that both she and her late husband, who died in 1985, were united in their decision to give back to their alma mater.

“Because we both had such wonderful experiences at Thayer,” she said, “John and I agreed that we would leave everything we had to the Academy. Not only am I more than delighted to live up to that agreement, but I feel that it is the best possible way I can honor the memory of both John and my parents.”

Rosemary and John loved traveling via luxury cruise ships, and itineraries included trips to France, the Azores, Western Canada, New Orleans, Alaska, and Japan. They took multiple cruises aboard the Queen Elizabeth II — in 1977, 1979, 1980, and again in 1984 — and Rosemary’s love of photography ensured that each new port of call was well documented. Whether by land, sea, or air, the Lavelles visited Hong Kong, Stockholm, Helsinki, Leningrad, and Copenhagen, to name just a few cities, and explored the famed Taj Mahal in India. Travels even included hot air ballooning in New Mexico.

In 1986, Rosemary established the John A. Lavelle ’45 Fund in honor of her husband to provide financial assistance to students “who have demonstrated academic achievement, determined resourcefulness, and excellence of character.” In 1997, she established the Elizabeth & James Crotty Fund in memory of her parents to provide financial assistance to “students of promise.” The roughly $1.2 million bequest will now be divided between those two funds.

Rosemary served as class agent for the Class of 1945 and volunteered her time at Thayer, whether that meant as a solicitor for a large capital campaign or simply lending a hand during a fundraising phonathon. A science lab in Glover Building bears her family’s name, and the Academy’s yearbook office is named for her husband. In recognition of these and other acts of service to her alma mater, Rosemary received the Alumni Loyalty Award in 1995 on the occasion of her class’s fiftieth reunion.

“Thayer is a school that discovers and nurtures the best there is in everyone who comes here,” she noted in that 2015 interview before adding: “My husband John always felt that the four years he spent at Thayer were among the happiest years of his life.”

Rosemary’s years at Thayer were more numerous than that. A Quincy native, she came to Thayer in the seventh grade, following in the footsteps of her older brother, Carlton “Carl” Crotty ’41. Carl attended Thayer for one year because his parents thought that, after being doublepromoted repeatedly in school, the 15-year-old was too young to enter Harvard University.

“My parents were so delighted by what Thayer had done for him that it was decided that there was no place for me but Thayer!” Rosemary recalled.

John and Rosemary were wed Oct. 13, 1951, at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Quincy and held their reception at the storied Dreamwold Hall in Scituate. The couple soon settled in Hingham but also began a lifelong passion for world travel, an activity they would share for more than three decades and one that would see Rosemary visit all seven continents in her lifetime.

TOP: Rosemary and John on one of their worldwide adventures - this time, on the QE2.

MIDDLE: High School Sweethearts BOTTOM: An English essay written during Rosemary's time at Thayer

As a result of her bequest, Rosemary becomes a member of The Tower Society, whose names are listed on a plaque just outside the office of the Head of School. The plaque reads: “In recognition of the transformative support of the most generous benefactors to Thayer Academy, the Tower Society honors those whose lifetime philanthropic investment in the mission and students of Thayer Academy exceeds $1 million.”

If you are interested in hosting an alumni event (even a virtual one!), please contact Rachael Rouvales Vassalotti ’79 P ’07, ’11, ’12, Associate Director of Development, at 781.664.2504 or rvassalotti@thayer.org.

44

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

The 2021 Thayer Legacy Group Photo Front Row (L-R): Carmelo Travieso '93, Kevin Travieso '21, David Romaine '21, Mark Romaine '86, Ethan Wilson '21, Greg Wilson '80 Second Row (L-R): Robert Hayes '58, Courtenay Frame Romaine '86, Timothy Burke '89, Madison Burke '21 Third Row (L-R): Rob Hayes '88, Caitlin Hayes '21, Jacqueline O'Leary '21, Jennifer Johnson '84, Eden Donnellan '21, Brennan Burke '20 Fourth Row (L-R): Casey Cashman '21, Jamie Cashman '73, Lori Tregoning Donnellan '90, Drew Bennett '21, Ashly Cashman '19, Andrew Bennett '91 Back Row (L-R): Robert DeMarco '86, John DeMarco '21, Christy Cashman, Quinn Cashman '21, Jay Cashman '71 Not pictured: John Roland '82 and Taylor Roland '21

Join Thayer's own networking community today!

ThayerNetwork allows you to connect with fellow alumni who have similar interests, careers, and locations; promote your business; search for job opportunities; and join a mentoring program.

Sign up today at ThayerNetwork.com

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

45

Class Notes CLASS OF

On August 4, 2021, friends from the Class of 1957 gathered on Cape Cod. Pictured from top left: Perry Collins, Ann Douglass Wood, David Larkin, Richard Sheehy, Bruce Nightingale, Maureen Bosteel Fleming, Faye Davis O'Brien, and Joe Green.

Pictured from bottom left: Susan Wheatley Carr, Debbie Keith Ramsdell, Bob Hunt, and Sandra Poole Bednarik.

1956 Gerald DiBona '56 Gerald writes: “Recently, the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa College of Medicine established The Gerald F. DiBona Award for Academics in Service to veterans/patients at the Iowa City Veterans Administration Medical Center.”

CLASS OF

1958 Robert Hayes '58 Bob’s granddaughter, Caitlin, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at the University of Miami this fall.

expressed the joy of feeling alive and well and appreciative of the Thayer experience.” See photo below.

CLASS OF

1959

CLASS OF

1957 Deborah Pavan Langston '57 Deborah writes: “I am 81 years old and happily retired (mostly). Still doing medical surgical consulting and living in Lincoln, Massachusetts, near my daughter and her family. Small stroke in 2020 made my balance iffy and stopped international travel, but we still go to my house in Martha's Vineyard. Just being alive is a major victory for the Class of '57.”

Ann Douglass Wood '57 See photo (and caption) above.

46

ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE THAYER COMMUNITY

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Joyce DiBona '59 Joyce writes: “To honor the milestone of most of us reaching our 80th year, several classmates joined a Zoom meeting in July. Sally Donner Briers was our host and led a lively discussion amongst the following classmates: Judy Grossman Molinsky, Marilyn Dixon Jackson, Linda Claff Bailit, Mary Burke Terpak, Barbara Cicchese Goldson, Kathy Dwan Delano, Bill Delahunt, Ken Commoss, Frank Newman, Pete (Winslow) Robbins, Mike Tenore, and Art Rochelle. One added note is that Marilyn Jackson reminded

me that her two sons are Thayer alums and she now has six grandchildren. She's catching up to my status. My husband, Bob Weiss, and I have nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren. I was thrilled with the enthusiastic response from everyone, and we universally

CLASS OF

1962 Frank Tenore '62 Frank had lunch with Susan Abbe Yates ’62 in Seattle, Washington!

THAYER CLASS NOTES

CLASS OF

1966 Warren Pierce '66 The Class of ’66 has been celebrating summer and vaccine freedom, gathering to share life updates, and just enjoying each other's company without masks!

See photos below: The first photo is at Ann Hoffman Scott's family house on the Cape. From left: Polly Lamson Brown, Kevin Tedeschi, Anne McCormick Heller, Bill McGrath, Martha Stone, and Warren Pierce.

The second photo is, clockwise from left front: Joel Bradley, Polly Lamson Brown, Howie Cutler, Bonnie Goldman Denher, Linda Forbes Brookfield and her friend Jim, Penny Schwartz Grossman, Bill McGrath, Warren Pierce, and Cindy Bestoso Retting.

my dear friend of more than 50 years.

We shared an instant connection, as his father owned Stanney’s Ice Cream in Holbrook and my family owned Seymour’s Ice Cream. He also had a Pontiac LeMans Convertible that we enjoyed driving with the top down.

Hope life has gone well for all of my classmates and that everyone is both happy and healthy.”

After Thayer, I would occasionally bump into Gerry and Sue (his wife, Susan Files Stanney) before or after church service — they have always been avid churchgoers — while we were students at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

I was a transfer student, and Gerry was so kind to me — guiding me through what courses I needed to take to major in business. Thanks to his wisdom and counseling, I made it to graduation.

Jay Cashman '71 Jay’s son, Quinn, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at Nichols College this fall.

Gerry was — is — my friend. He showed me how to face adversity with courage, strength, and laughter along the way. If you look up ‘True Friend’ in the dictionary, you will find his picture, and I’m glad that, for eternity, his picture will be right next to mine in our Thayer Academy Class of 1966 yearbook.”

CLASS OF

1970 Jim McKenzie '70 Jim says, “Amazingly, I'm still working in IT management at age 68, but this will be my last year, I suspect. I'm also now a proud grandfather of two! I was planning to attend our 50th reunion, but … COVID-19. A shame, I was looking forward to it. I did kind of have a mini-reunion last year when I went to see classmate Karen La Fleur's art exhibition at the Cotuit Center for the Arts. She showed an amazing collection that was very well-attended.

Paul Samuelian '66 Paul wrote this appreciation of his friend, Gerry Stanney ’66, who passed away in September.

“I met Gerry Stanney the first day of our junior year at Thayer. He became

I'm living on Cape Cod now, though making plans to retire to Vermont or New Hampshire next year. Still playing guitar, but not professionally any more.

Considering going for my doctorate, but we'll see. :)

CLASS NOTES: 1950s-80s

Alumni

CLASS OF

1971

CLASS OF

1973 James Cashman '73 Jamie’s daughter, Casey, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at the University of Tampa this fall.

CLASS OF

1980 D. Gregory Wilson '80 Greg’s son, Ethan, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) this fall. See his photo on the NCAA student athletes spread on page 37.

CLASS OF

1982 Norma Delaney '82 After many years as a marketer at New Balance and later President of Delaney Brand Consulting, Norma has taken an exciting new role as Vice President of Global Brand Marketing at Hoka One One, a rising running shoe brand with exploding sales in 2020.

John Roland '82 John’s daughter, Taylor, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at St. Lawrence University this fall.

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

47

CLASS OF

Vin Sica '82 Vin's son, Vinny, joined Thayer's Upper School this fall as a sophomore.

CLASS OF

1984 Jennifer Johnson '84 Jennifer’s daughter, Jacqui, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at the College of the Holy Cross this fall.

CLASS OF

1985 Jeffrey Adams '85 Jeff opened a new pottery studio in North Scituate! ANJL Ceramics is a full-service pottery studio offering gallery space and classes. ANJL stands for Jeff’s four children: Aiden, Noah, Justin, and Lily.

Maria DiRico Tempel '85 Maria has three children who joined the Thayer community this fall: Simone (9th), Von (7th), and Dresden (6th).

John Troupe '85 John’s stepson, Archer, joined Thayer’s Upper School this fall as a 9th grader.

CLASS OF

1986 Robert DeMarco '86 Rob’s son, John, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at Providence College this fall.

Courtenay Frame Romaine '86 & Mark Romaine '86 Courtney and Mark’s son, David, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at Boston University this fall.

48

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

1988 Robert Hayes '88 Rob’s daughter, Caitlin, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at the University of Miami this fall.

CLASS OF

1989

from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at Northeastern University this fall.

John Gallagher '90 John is a freelance writer and author of crime and legal stories. He has a debut novel out, and it is available on Amazon in paperback and on Kindle! His pen name is John Cader, and the novel is Crime Fraud - a legal thriller with great story lines and wonderful, entertaining characters.

Timothy Burke '89 Tim’s daughter, Madison, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at Boston University this fall.

Amie Tedeschi '89 In celebration of her 25 years as a dedicated teacher at the Lower School, the Triangle Day School in Durham, North Carolina, honored Amie by establishing The Amie Tedeschi Fund for Literacy.

The fund honors her commitment and her legacy by supporting initiatives that will engender a love of reading in her students for years to come.

"We at TDS are grateful to Tedeschi for her passion and dedication to the school, and most of all to her students, their parents, and her colleagues,” said Head of School Doug Norry. "When someone eventually writes a history of TDS, no one will be featured more prominently than Amie Tedeschi, and with good reason. She is an absolute treasure!”

CLASS OF

1990 Paul Currie '90 Paul’s daughters, Hannah and Taylor, joined Thayer’s Middle School this fall as 6th and 5th graders, respectively.

Lori Tregoning Donnellan '90 Congratulations to Lori, who joined the Thayer Academy Alumni Board this fall!

Also, Lori’s daughter, Eden, graduated

Colleen Burns Hernandez '90 Colleen’s son, Andrew, joined Thayer’s Middle School this fall as a 6th grader.

CLASS OF

1991 Andrew Bennett '91 Drew’s son, Drew Jr., graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at Colby College this fall. Also, his daughter, Charlotte, joined Thayer’s Middle School this fall as a 5th grader.

Joshua Cohen '91 Josh’s son, Henry, joined Thayer’s Middle School this fall as a 7th grader.

Mark Wainwright '91 Mark’s son, Ben, joined Thayer’s Middle School this fall as a 5th grader.

1992 Melissa Tuthill Forger '92 Melissa’s sons, Finn and Cameron, joined Thayer’s Middle School this fall as 6th and 5th graders, respectively.

Todd Guilfoyle '92 Todd’s son and daughter, Andrew and Emily, joined Thayer’s Upper School this fall as 11th and 9th graders, respectively.

Kelly Amonte Hiller '92 Northwestern and U.S. U19 women’s lacrosse coach Kelly Amonte Hiller recently took the mound at historic Wrigley Field to throw out the first pitch at a Chicago Cubs game. Amonte Hiller fired a perfect strike!

Greg Lally '92 Greg’s son, Tommy, joined Thayer’s Middle School this fall as a 6th grader.

CLASS OF

1994

1996

Louis Bello '94 Congratulations to Louie and his wife Laura on the arrival of a baby girl, Payton Elizabeth Bello, on May 14th!

See photo on page 55.

Courtney '96 & Michael Mottau '96 Courtney & Mike’s son and daughter, Ryan and Rowan, joined Thayer’s Upper School as 10th and 9th graders, respectively.

Jessica Scheller Holmes '94 Jessica competed in the 2021 Massachusetts State Triathlon on July 11, 2021, and finished as the 2nd female overall!

Daniel Najarian '94 Dan’s daughter and son, Rose and Hank, joined Thayer’s Middle School this fall as 7th and 5th graders, respectively.

Anni McDonough Zukauskas '94 Anni’s son, T.J., joined Thayer’s Middle School this fall as a 5th grader.

CLASS OF

1993 Julie Burke-Blanchard '93 Julie recently joined the board of the Cohasset Education Foundation. She writes: "After such a difficult school year for all of us, I looked for opportunities where I could hopefully use some of my skills for the better. I'm incredibly proud to be a part of the CEF and remain committed to the belief excellence in public education is essential to the social and economic fabric of our community. I hope to drive more financial support to the CEF to ensure our educators have the best tools and platforms to be successful."

Michael Foley '93 Michael’s son, Charlie, joined Thayer’s Upper School this fall as a 9th grader.

Carmelo Travieso '93 Carmelo’s son, Kevin, graduated from Thayer as part of the Class of 2021 and started at Northeastern University this fall.

CLASS OF

CLASS OF

1995 Joshua Jensen '95 Congratulations to Josh as he shares the exciting news that he has accepted a new job as Vice President for Communications at Oberlin College and Conservatory. "I could not be more excited to lead communications for this great school,” he said.

Matt Kane '95 Matt joined his brother Tim '02 in sharing the life and legacy of their sister, Jennifer '93, during a Middle School morning meeting honoring her and the victims and survivors of 9/11.

See story on page 10.

Geoffrey Wilkinson Jr. '95 Geoff’s son, Tommy, joined Thayer’s Middle School this fall as a 7th grader.

CLASS NOTES: 1980s -2000s

CLASS OF

CLASS OF

1997 Stephen Allison II '97 Stephen married Michelle Galemba on May 15, 2021.

Jon Ambrosino '97 See story on page 21.

CLASS OF

2001 Jessica Courtney '01 Congratulations to Jessica on the birth of Casey James Reilly on Jan. 6, 2021.

See photo on page 55.

CLASS OF

2002 Tim Kane '02 See Matt Kane '95.

Meghan Haggerty '02 Meghan is currently the Acting Chief Administrative Officer with the Highway Division at MassDOT (Massachusetts Department of Transportation).

Kendra King '02 Congratulations to Kendra as she started as Vice President of the Thayer Academy Alumni Board this fall!

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

49

Alumni WEDDINGS & BABIES

50

Thayer Weddings

3

Rachel Johnston ’09 & Craig Richardson (7.17.21)

4

Sophie Bresnahan ’10 & Jackson MacDonald (7.18.21)

5

Michael Carter ’10 & Kate Berner (6.19.21)

7

Emmy Giarrusso ’10 & Ishaan Chaudhary (8.28.21)

8

Joseph Herbert ’10 & Mary Farrell (9.26.20)

9

Samantha Sears ’10 & Jeffrey Agnew (6.20.20)

10

Taylor Windwer ’10 & Glen Miles (7.3.21)

11

Brad Peterson ’11 & Carolyn Bothwell (7.17.21)

13

Christopher Tasiopoulos ’11 & Carly Domos (8.13.21)

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

CLASS NOTES: WEDDINGS & 2000s

14

Julia Budde Hilton ’12 & Spencer Hilton (5.22.21)

15

Katherine McManus ’12 & Michael Shipp (5.29.21)

16

Alexandra Smith ’12 & Jonathan Mleczko (3.19.21)

Newlywed?

Share the good news with your fellow Thayer alums!

Please email your high-resolution photo to: magazine@thayer.org

18

Daniel Flatley ’14 & Jasmine Blais (7.25.21)

CLASS OF

CLASS OF

2005 Michaela Robbins '05 See story on page 52.

CLASS OF

2006 Tyler Ferrari '06 Tyler married Lauren Gallagher on June 5, 2021, in Milton.

2007 Tyler also qualified for and competed in the 113th Massachusetts Amateur Golf Championship on July 13, 2021, at Brae Burn Country Club in West Newton. Fellow Thayer alumnus Billy Argus '14 also qualified and competed.

Ryan Leonard '06 Congratulations to Ryan and his wife on the arrival of Lily Caroline Leonard on April 14! See photo on page 55.

Nicole Carter '07 On July 21, Nicole became engaged to Chad Cremer. Congratulations, Nicole!

Taylor Hamilton-Trudeau '07 Congratulations to Taylor on her recent engagement to Kevin Koch.

Emily Humphrey '07 Congratulations to Emily on her recent engagement to Pat Noble this April in South Boston.

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

51

Melissa Dell Lamey '07 Congratulations to Mel on opening her new restaurant, Mello Vibez, a Caribbean fusion restaurant that focuses on amazing food, awesome drinks, and chill vibes with a special attention to detail. Mello Vibez is located at 473 River St. in Mattapan. Check it out: @mellovibezboston John Lerner '07 Congratulations to John, who started on the Thayer Academy Alumni Board this fall!

Matthew Evans '08 The New England Patriots hired former UNH standout Matt Evans as an area scout. Matt previously served as a scout for eight seasons with the Washington football team.

Jordan Kelly '08 Jordan and Nicky welcomed baby Harper on June 14, 2021! See photo on page 55.

CLASS OF

2009

CLASS OF

2008 Kenny Carberry '08 Congratulations to Kenny and his wife Kate on the birth of Nora Lorraine Carberry on August 22, 2021 (See photo on page 55).

Additional congratulations to Kenny, who started as President of the Thayer Academy Alumni Board this fall!

Thomas Darling '09 Tommy and Ashley welcomed baby Desmond on June 29, 2021. See photo on page 55.

Rachel Johnston Richardson '09 ​​ Rachel Johnston married Craig Richardson on July 17, 2021, in Warwick, Rhode

CLASS OF

2005

Michaela Robbins

Island. In attendance were Rachael Chase '09, Addie Hauber '09, and McKenzie Sumner '09. See photo on page 50.

Hillary Sussek '09 Hillary writes: "I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from Simmons University in May of 2019. I am a preschool social worker providing therapy to children ages 3-5 in Harlem, New York, who have severe emotional and behavioral challenges. During the pandemic, the need for mental health services was at an all-time high, and, additionally, I began doing per diem therapy sessions with teenagers to support them during this difficult time.

I am a proud mental health worker and strongly believe there shouldn't be any barriers for individuals to receive mental health treatment.”

Everything is a Celebration Special needs adoption brings joy, laughter, and hope to young family STORY BY REBECCA DELANEY

For Michaela Robbins ‘05 and her husband David, the path to parenthood was not a straight or an easy one, but if you met their family today, you would see it ended exactly where it was meant to.

After unsuccessfully working with three different adoption agencies over the course of four years, Michaela and David started to think adoption wasn’t going to happen for them.

“It was fraught — we encountered innumerable challenges,” said Michaela of the adoption process. “However, we wouldn’t have crossed paths so serendipitously with Noah if this had all unfolded differently.”

Michaela and David first met their son Noah at The Children’s Home & Lemieux Family Center in Pittsburgh, where Michaela and David were volunteering. Noah has Escobar syndrome, which results in respiratory issues and causes his limbs to be permanently bent. He requires a wheelchair, an artificial airway, and a feeding tube at night.

52

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

2010 Samantha Sears Agnew '10 Sammy married Jeffrey Agnew on June 20, 2020. See photo on page 50.

Michael Carter '10 Michael married Kate Berner on June 19, 2021. Wedding party included Joe Herbert '10 and Josh Falkson '10. See photo on page 50.

Julia Daly '10 Congratulations to Julia, who started as Secretary of the Thayer Academy Alumni Board this fall!

Joseph Herbert '10 Joe married Mary Farrell on September 26, 2020. Alumni in attendance included: Mike Carter '10, Bob MacCune ’10,

Noah lived with Michaela and David for a year in foster care before officially becoming part of the family during a Zoom adoption hearing last December; several family members and friends attended virtually due to COVID-19 protocols. Michaela, David, and Noah dressed up in their best red-and-green outfits since Christmas is Noah’s favorite holiday.

A local church pitched in to help build Noah a wheelchair ramp for his new home, and after the adoption, Noah and his parents became celebrities with a profile in People magazine as well as stories on a local CBS news affiliate and in the local newspaper.

In the past 18 months, Noah has required 13 surgeries, yet he perseveres and keeps his new parents laughing.

“Despite all that he’s been through in his short life, Noah’s joy is insurmountable; his ability to adapt and thrive is positively unmatched,” said Michaela. “Noah is an

Rio Sacchetti '10, Alex Osterman '10, Rob Costello '10, and Mary Herbert '13.

See photo on page 50.

Maximilian Hoffman '10 Max is currently serving as Chief Resident during his final year of Anesthesiology residency at NYU Langone.

He will move to North Carolina in July 2022 to begin fellowship training in critical care medicine at Duke University.

Sophie Bresnahan MacDonald '10 ​​Sophie married Jackson MacDonald on July 18, 2021, at the Popponesset Inn. Thayer alumni in attendance included her siblings, Hope '08 and Gabe '15, along with Taylor Windwer Miles '10, Isabella DiRado Sprague '10, Tim Sprague '10, Mike Carter '10, Emmy Giarrusso '10, Shauna Teevens '10, Elise Sullivan '10, and Lizzie Periera '10. See photo on page 50.

incredibly vivacious and bright 6-yearold. He wakes up laughing and goes to bed laughing. He has brilliant comedic timing and loves to tell jokes.”

At Thayer, Michaela was involved in theater as co-director of Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit and was a member of the ski team. She says she was greatly influenced by her teachers, especially Upper School English Faculty and Department Head Kate Hayman; Upper School English Faculty Denise King P ’08, ‘10; and Upper School Math Faculty Deborah Siegel P ’22.

“All of those women taught me to stay curious and helped me to see the endless possibilities that lay ahead for my future,” she said before adding: “The Thayer community was also very supportive and offered great solace to my family after the passing of my brother, Matt Healey ‘09. The generosity of spirit that has been shown here at preserving his legacy is quite humbling.”

Taylor Windwer Miles '10 Taylor married Glen Miles on July 3, 2021, in Newport, Rhode Island. The wedding party included many Thayer Tigers including Lexi Windwer '13 (MOH), Nick Windwer '15, Isabella DiRado Sprague '10, Caroline Casper '10, Hannah Mulvey Ferrera '10, and Sophie Bresnahan '10. Others in attendance included Tim Sprague '10, Brian Murphy '10, A.J. Ferrera '09, Caroline Morton '10, Andrea Costello '10, Anna Costello '18, Molly Gallagher Lewis '98, and Jess Nelson Pereiera. See photo on page 50.

CLASS NOTES: 1990s-2000s

CLASS OF

Jacquelyn Cox Pash '10 Jackie married Brian Pash on June 5, 2021, in Sharon, Connecticut. Bridesmaids included Kara Cronin '10 and Kayla Florence '10.

Michaela encourages other parents looking to adopt to consider a special needs or medically complex adoption.

“When you are the parent of a medically fragile or disabled child, you are given a tremendous blessing: your priorities and values are straightened out beyond the shadow of a doubt,” she said. “When we brought Noah home, we understood there were no guarantees about time or milestones or the million other things we used to take for granted, which is a blessed way to live — everything is a celebration and a cause for immense hope.”

(Editor’s Note: Matt Healey ‘09 died in 2009 of the H1N1 flu virus while a college freshman; The Matthew Callahan Healey ‘09 Memorial Prize is awarded at Last Chapel to that senior who exemplifies Healey’s “inclusive and unparalleled spirit, true exuberance for life, ability to find happiness and humor in the simplest of things, and great love for family and the Thayer community.”)

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

53

CLASS OF

2011 Danielle Sears Donahue '11 Danny married Tyler Donahue on June 26, 2021, in Cohasset. Danny’s MOH was her sister, Samantha Sears Agnew '10.

Julia Budde Hilton '12 Julia was married to Spencer Hilton on May 22, 2021, at Round Hill in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts. Her brother, Griffin Budde '10, officiated the ceremony. See photo on page 51.

William Argus '14 Billy qualified for and competed in the 113th Massachusetts Amateur Golf Championship on July 13, 2021, at Brae Burn Country Club in West Newton.

Fellow alumnus Tyler Ferrari '06 also qualified and competed.

McKenzie Hunt '12 Good luck to McKenzie as she begins her journey as an MBA candidate at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College!

Julia Barron '14 Julia got engaged to Tom Lyons on June 26, 2021, in Miami, Florida. Congratulations!

Allie Morey '11 Allie got engaged to William Tyler Weihs in June 2021. Congratulations!

Brad Peterson '11 Brad married Carolyn Bothwell on July 17, 2021, in Centerville. See photo on page 50.

Michael Vazza '11 Mike and his wife Emma welcomed their son Jackson Michael on Saturday, April 10, weighing in at 6 pounds, 10 ounces. See photo on page 55.

Shweta Kumar '12 Shweta has started a new position as Marketing Manager at Life Cycle at Solv CRM in New York City.

Katherine McManus '12 Katherine married Michael Shipp on May 29, 2021, in Boston. See photo on page 51.

CLASS OF

2012 Kunal Agrawal '12 Kunal moved to New York City and started a new job as a Software Engineer at a healthcare start-up, Thirty Madison.

Alexandra Smith '12 Lexi married Jonathan Mleczko on March 19, 2021, in Milton. A celebration was held Aug. 7, 2021, in Boston.

See photo on page 51.

CLASS OF

Julia Coombs '12 Julia and Edward Seaman were married in Newport, Rhode Island, on Oct. 9, 2021.

As told in a recent feature in the Wall Street Journal, Julia met Edward Seaman for the first time at a one-week camp in Belfast, Maine, run by Tuesday’s Children, a nonprofit offering services to help families who lost relatives to terrorism, violent extremism, or war. Then they met again at orientation at Loyola University Maryland, and a year later they had fallen in love! Having both lost their fathers on September 11, they feel their fathers both had a role in their love story. Their wedding ceremony included tributes to their fathers. Julia's

54

CLASS OF

mother Christie spoke at the Upper School during an assembly remembering September 11. See story on page 10.

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

2013 Claire Gordon '13 Claire, who joined the Thayer Middle School staff last year, has officially been hired as the new teacher for the additional 5th grade section!

2014

Neil Conway '14 Neil married Julia Carpenter on May 30, 2021, in Boothbay Harbor, Maine.

Daniel Flatley Jr. '14 Daniel married Jasmine Blais on July 25, 2021, in Milton. The wedding party included Maggie Flatley '08 and T.J. Flatley '11. See photo on page 51.

Julianne Landry '14 Julianne has started a new position as Law Clerk at Drohan Tocchio & Morgan, P.C. Nolan Murray '14 Nolan has begun a new job as Senior Customer Success Manager, Corporate at HubSpot in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Conor O'Brien '14 Conor recently graduated from the Woods School of Advancing Studies at Boston College with a Master of Science in Sports Administration. He is currently working as a Ticket Operations Associate at Yale University Athletics.

Hailee Miller Steinke '14 Hailee married Chris Steinke on April 3, 2021, in Gilford, New Hampshire.

CLASS NOTES: 2010s & THAYER BABIES

Thayer Babies

Welcoming the newest members of the Thayer community!

Payton Elizabeth Bello

Alistair "Ace" Roo Silberman

Lily Caroline Leonard

BORN: May 14, 2021 Laura McGoodwin & Louie Bello ’94

BORN: August 23, 2021 Amanda Kelly Silberman ’04 & Alex Silberman

BORN: April 14, 2020 Hailey & Ryan Leonard ’06

Nora Lorraine Carberry

Desmond Darling

BORN: August 22, 2021 Kate Rennie & Kenny Carberry ’08

BORN: June 29, 2021 Ashley & Thomas Darling ’09

Harper Gisele Kelly BORN: June 14, 2021 Nicky Del Negro-Jozefiak & Jordan Kelly ’08

New Parent?

Share the good news with your fellow Thayer alums!

Emilia Joan Lerner

Jackson Michael Vazza

BORN: July 30, 2021 Megan Flaherty ’09 & Chris Lerner ’09

BORN: April 10, 2021 Emma & Michael Vazza ’11

Email your newborn’s full name and date of birth — and be sure to include a high-res (300 dpi or higher) photo — to Thayer Magazine at: magazine@thayer.org

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

55

CLASS OF

2015 Sydney Packard '15 Sydney has started a new position as Investment Banking Associate at Wells Fargo Securities, New York City.

CLASS OF

2017

Anna Costello '18 Congratulations to Trinity College Junior Anna Costello as she was named to the Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) 2021 Division III All-American Third Team.

Sam Rando '18 Midshipman Second Class Sam Rando signed her “2 for 7.” After two years of Naval Academy training, she has chosen to devote her next seven years to the Navy! See photo below.

Molly Greenough '17 Molly started a new position as Welfare Officer at UCD (University College Dublin) Students' Union (UCDSU).

2019 Dylan Amonte '19 Congratulations to Dylan and the Northwestern University women's lacrosse team who clinched a share of the 2021 Big Ten Conference title following its 20-10 win vs. Maryland on March 29, 2021. This marks the Wildcats' first Big Ten championship in program history.

CLASS OF

2020 Aimee Matos '20 Welcome to the Thayer Academy Alumni Board, Aimee!

Ryan St. Clair '20 Ryan was named to the Dean's List for both fall and spring semesters his first year at Salve Regina University.

CLASS OF

2018 Lauren Bennett '18 Lauren and her rowing team at George Washington University finished in second place at the A-10 Conference Championships for Women's Rowing V1 8. Lauren followed that up by earning an All-Conference First Team Award!

Lauren is the daughter of Andrew Bennett '91.

CLASS OF

Oscar Wahlberg '20 In the fall of 2021, Oscar plays Zach, the captain of a high school wrestling team, in season four of the Showtime miniseries Dexter: New Blood.

Margaret Skillman '18 Congratulations to Maggie and her UNC lacrosse team for their 2021 ACC Championship!

Oscar counts Manchester by the Sea, NOS4A2, Daddy’s Home, and Slender Man among his credits.

Attention, Alums!

Know of fellow Thayer alumni who are doing something great? Do you know of someone who continues to live out our motto by inspiring others to excellence or by their many contributions to the common good? If so, let us know so that we can feature them in these pages!

CONTACT US!

✉ magazine@thayer.org

56

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

“SHE PROBABLY SAVED MY LIFE...”

GRATEFUL ALUM REMEMBERS THE TEACHER AND THE SCHOOL THAT WENT THE EXTRA MILE FOR HIM

By Anton Wishik (staff writer for Pentera)

Brad White ’77 says that his 11 years at Thayer Academy are the reason

“She probably saved my life,” Brad says. “I enrolled in Thayer after first

he was able to progress from a poor student with undiagnosed attention

grade, back when nobody knew what ADD was. My issue was compre-

deficit disorder (ADD) to a successful businessman who helped take

hension; I could read, but I couldn’t remember. Now I remember and

the Sharper Image company public, founded a high-end pet products

read everything. It was Mrs. Tilden and others at Thayer who molded

company and now pursues his love of boating as the founder and

me. They took that ADD and turned it into creative useful energy.”

operator of New England Burial At Sea that uses 88 boats departing He also lauds Marshall Litchfield P '78, the longtime teacher, coach and

from 73 ports on both coasts of the United States.

assistant headmaster who coached Brad in football.

In gratitude, he participates in Career Day at Thayer and has recently added a bequest to his estate plan and has become a member of the

“Litch is a well-respected guy, a razor-sharp coach and an oceanography

Southworth Society for those making legacy gifts.

biologist who encouraged me to think and produce better work - and to run faster,” says Brad, who described himself as the classic “class clown”

“My wife Julie-Anne and I were reviewing our estate plan and doing

until Thayer changed him. “Thayer taught me what was important,

some work on our future legacy trust, and I just had to include Thayer,”

taught me to care, taught me how to learn and taught me that nonsense

says Brad. “It was time to recognize who and what got me off the lazy

was not what I was there for.”

launch pad of life in grade school, and I am forever grateful for that.

Everybody else who learned, trained and became a stronger student at

Brad still struggled academically in the Upper School. He then went

the Academy should also be grateful.”

on to earn a bachelor’s degree in management from Ithaca College and became an assistant sales manager at Sharper Image. Over the next 15

In particular, Brad acknowledges the late Doris Tilden, who tutored

years, he advanced to become the worldwide director of business devel-

him for eight years, taught at Thayer for 20 years and also served as a

opment and helped bring the company public on the stock market. He

foster parent for 36 babies.

then founded a pet products company that over a decade developed the pet stroller, the pet Murphy bed, the pet bicycle basket carrier and other unique high-end products.

“In 2005 I bought a nice boat, got my captain’s license and took someone out for a tuna charter,” recalls Brad, who is an avid boater, competitive sailor and big-game fisherman. “The client asked me to spread the ashes of a relative. I realized that this could be a new business

THE

SOUTHWORTH SOCIETY

PL A N N ED

G I VI N G

AT

T H AY E R

ACA D E M Y

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

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 trusts, annuities, or a life insurance policy with Thayer as the beneficiary.

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 P ’25, ’28, ’29, 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.

that would keep me on the water. One scattering became 2,000 and now we work with more than 2,300 funeral homes including the military, the FBI, CIA and Secret Service. We do it properly. We don’t cut corners.”

Brad and Julie-Anne live in Marshfield Hills, less than 20 miles from Thayer, and he visits often when he's not out on the water.

“Passing the Thayer tower on the highway for over 50 years constantly grounds me to my years there,” Brad says. “I made lifelong friends with fellow students and with teachers, and I will be networking with them forever. I encourage my fellow classmates to reflect on their Thayer experience and to pay it forward. We all need to make sure this institution remains financially healthy to enable it to offer the same incredible ‘stem-to-stern’ education to future generations.”

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

57

In Memoriam Former Faculty, Staff & Trustees Bruce Steven Tuthilll P ’85, ’88, ’90, ’92 GP ’25, ’28, ’29 FORMER THAYER BOARD CHAIR

Bruce Steven Tuthill, age 79 of Plymouth and formerly of Hingham, passed away surrounded by his wife and daughters on August 30, 2021, missing a 10:40 a.m. tee time but not much else. He lived a great life--blessed with a phenomenal wife, devoted children and grandchildren, a big extended family, and many loyal friends.

Bruce was born lucky on 7-11, 1942, to Gordon and Madeline (Jackson) Tuthill in Bayside Queens, NY. He was one of four children including Gordon and Richard Tuthill (who both predeceased him), and his sister Madge DeSales whom he loved dearly.

After graduating from New London (CT) High School in 1960, he went on to receive his Bachelor of Business Administration at the University of Notre Dame in 1964 where he served as student body president.

Bruce participated in the ROTC program and was commissioned upon graduation, serving on active duty as a lieutenant in the Army Air Defense Command.

Bruce received his Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School and became a highly successful stockbroker at several firms including E.F. Hutton - when Bruce talked, people listened. He was a Senior Vice President and served on the Board of Directors at E.F. Hutton and was widely respected as one of the top brokers at the firm.

Bruce reconnected with Sandra (Kalil), who also grew up in New London, and they married in 1968. Their love story would span the decades as they raised their four daughters - Whitney Tuthill Presutti '85, Tracey Tuthill Buckeridge '90, and

58

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

Melissa Tuthill Forger '92 P '25, '28, '29

(all of Hingham) and Kelley Tuthill '88 (of Wellesley). The girls all attended Thayer Academy where Bruce served as chair of the Board of Trustees and led what was then the largest capital campaign in the school's history. Bruce generously funded scholarships for students in need at Notre Dame. He volunteered at and supported many other organizations over the years, including the South Shore Music Circus, Old Colony Montessori School, and Resurrection Parish.

Bruce always carried a little black leather book filled with the names, addresses, and phone numbers of family and friends who dated back to elementary school. He loved to talk on the phone and would spend hours catching up with friends from high school, college, B-school, and more. Bruce loved long dinners enjoying swordfish and bottomless glasses of Chardonnay, epic stories, boating and the beach, watching New England and Notre Dame sports, and golfing with friends at Cohasset Golf Club, Willowbend Country Club, and Pinehills Golf Club.

The quintessential family man, he dedicated as much time as he could to his girls as they grew up, coaching teams, attending sporting events and plays, and traveling around the world as a family. He welcomed Guy Presutti, Brendan Ward, Tim Buckeridge, and Glenn Forger into the family and loved them like sons. He was a devoted grandfather who enjoyed golfing with his grandchildren, attending their sporting events and shows, and eating ice cream on a hot summer night. Grandpa Bruce lives on in his 14 grandchildren whom he adored including Samantha, Jacqueline, Max, Grayson, and Alexandra Presutti; Madeline, Cecilia, and Scarlett Ward; Tyler, Ashley,

and Trevor Buckeridge; and Taylor '25, Finn '28, and Cameron Forger '29.

Kisha Mann Watts ADMISSIONS OFFICER & DIVERSITY COORDINATOR

Kisha Mann Watts was born June 3, 1980, in Pensacola, Florida, and passed away at the age of 40 on April 28, 2021, in Pasadena, California. She is survived by her mother, Karen Watts; her father, Robert Watts; her brother, Ajene Watts, and his wife, Najmah Watts; her niece, Liya; nephew, Laith; grandmother, Ruth Mann; grand aunts Ondina Jeffers and Thelma Diamond; aunts Cheryl Mann, Patricia Watts, Mary Watts, and Thelma Watts; uncles James Watts and Michael Watts; and too many other relatives and dear friends to list.

Kisha graduated from School Without Walls High School inWashington, DC, and from Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English, Women and Gender Studies, and Pre-Medical. Upon graduation, she immediately entered the world of education at Thayer Academy in Braintree as a Middle School English and Science Teacher, Dean of Middle School Girls, Admissions Officer, and Diversity Coordinator. Although Kisha enjoyed teaching, she felt compelled to transition to the recruitment and admission of students of color for entry into private schools, and she served as the Director of Multicultural Recruitment at the The Taft School, Watertown, Connecticut.

Aspiring to advance, Kisha served as Dean Of Admissions, Cushing Academy, Ashburnham; Director of Admissions & Diversity, St. Francis School, Louisville,

Thayer Academy has established The Kisha Watts Memorial Award in acknowledgment of her work as an Admissions Officer and the Academy's Diversity Coordinator. The award will be given each year at Last Chapel in memory of Watts, who was also Thayer Academy's first Black middle school faculty member. It will be awarded to a member of the senior class whose own efforts have advanced the diversity, equity, and inclusion of Thayer Academy’s school culture. In lieu of flowers, Kisha's family requests that donations be made to The Kisha Watts Memorial Award by sending donations to: Thayer Academy Attn: Director of Development, 745 Washington St., Braintree, MA 02184 or online at thayer.org/give.

1942 Elizabeth Moreton ’42 Elizabeth "Betsey" Priscilla Moreton, age 94, of Black Mountain, passed away on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Mission Hospital. She was the daughter of the late Walter H. and Elizabeth Laffan Moreton and born on February 18, 1925. She leaves her cousins; her sister, Mary Laffan of Ronkonkoma, New York, and Joyce Mulholland. Betsey was a graduate of Thayer Academy where she was an honor roll student and a member of the drama and glee club. She went on to graduate from Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, Massachusetts, with a major in American Studies. She

was fortunate enough to travel widely in Europe, Canada, and the United States.

After a year of teaching, Betsey spent many years working at the Boston Museum of Science as an executive secretary. Her work involved a year working for a New York fundraising company for the museum and planning trustee financial meetings, luncheons, etc. Upon retiring to the South, she volunteered at the Swannanoa Correctional Center for Women, Warren Wilson College, and Montreat College.

At Givens Highland Farms, her volunteer work was in the library. She was also a member of Swannanoa Valley Friends Meeting (Quaker). She was predeceased by her brother Walter H. Moreton Jr. ’36.

1945 Alan Gullicksen ’45 Alan Roberts Gullicksen, who spent his summers in Falmouth and also lived in Bonita Springs, Florida, died May 29, 2021. He was 93. He was the husband of Sandra Castle Gullicksen, to whom he was married for 64 years. Mr. Gullicksen was born and raised in Quincy, and grew up sailing and racing in Quincy Bay, Marblehead, and the New York Finger Lakes. His first boat was a 12-foot Snipe #309 named Jeanie.

Alan was educated at Thayer Academy, where he played hockey and football, and later studied at Bowdoin College in Maine.

At Bowdoin, he was a member of the sailing club and played hockey; he earned a bachelor of arts degree in 1953. In later years he continued his studies at Boston State College and received a Master’s in Education from there in 1972. Mr. Gullicksen served in the US Army from 1946 to 1948, including a tour in Japan.

A former 40-year resident of Weymouth, while living there he worked as the New England sales representative for the George F. Cram Company. His love for sailing continued throughout his life. He spent many New England summers aboard his Whitby 42-foot ketch, The Ragtime Dancer. Mr. Gullicksen was a member of the Merrymount Yacht Club, the Town River Yacht Club, the Squantum Yacht Club, and the Red Brook Harbor Yacht Club where he served as commodore.

His travels took him around the world, including to the Mediterranean, South America, Antarctica, the Baltic, Scandinavia, Africa, Pacific Islands, and Australia. Mr. Gullicksen continued his love of hockey, playing with the Quincy Old Timers team until his late 70s; he played tennis until his late 80s. For the past 25 years, he divided his time between Florida and Falmouth, and he enjoyed bridge and tennis in both places.

IN MEMORIAM: 1940s

Kentucky; and Director of Admissions, Oak Knoll Montessori School, Pasadena, California. During her off hours, Kisha served with the following organizations in an effort to educate and guide students of color toward an education in private schools: Diversity Commissioner, Connecticut Association of Independent Schools; National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) People of Color Conference Co-Chair; NAIS Leadership Institute Faculty member; Association of Independent Schools in New England High School Students of Color Conference Chair; Enrollment Management Association Admissions Leadership Council member; Co-Vice President of Williams College Alumni Class of 2002; and Consultant for Aristotle Circle Ivy League Admissions.

In addition to his wife, he leaves his daughter, Gull Gullicksen of Middleborough; his son and daughter-inlaw, Kenneth and Victoria Gullicksen of Nantucket; four grandchildren, Tara Reidy and Sonja Reidy, both of Middleborough, and Lydia Gullicksen and Emmet Gullicksen, both of Nantucket; four greatgrandchildren; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his two older brothers, Theodore Gullicksen ’41 and Harold Gullicksen ’42.

Dorothy Papani Palmer ’45

Dorothy Rose Papani Palmer, of Hingham, 93, internationally acclaimed artist known for her vibrant paintings, notably her colorful floral compositions, passed away after a short illness on July 22, 2021. Everyone admired Dorothy's intuitive spirituality, her love of entertaining, and boundless energy.

Dorothy was compassionate, empathetic, and loved her community.

Palmer, daughter of Nicholas and Rose Puopolo Papani, was born and raised in Quincy and was a graduate of Thayer Academy, where she was a member of the glee club and orchestra while also playing tennis and softball. She went on to graduate from Lasell College. Dorothy later studied at the Art Institute of Boston with noted artist MacIvor Reddie and also attended Harvard Divinity School.

In 1952 she married Robert Louis Palmer, a graduate of the US Coast Guard Academy, and later a lieutenant in active service for the Coast Guard. At that time Dorothy was a fashion model and accomplished fashion designer in both Toledo and Cleveland, while Bob was stationed on Lake Erie. In the late ’50s Dorothy and Bob moved back to Massachusetts where Dorothy continued to pursue her creative talents. She was a founding member of the South

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

59

IN MEMORIAM: 1940s-1950s

Shore Art Center in Cohasset and the South Shore Conservatory of Music in Hingham. Dorothy established galleries in the Hingham Granary Marketplace and Sugarbush Village, Vermont, which showcased her original artwork. Mrs. Palmer loved golf and was a lifetime member of Cohasset Golf Club and Sankaty Head Golf Club on Nantucket. She was also a member of the Neighborhood Club of Quincy and Hingham Yacht Club and a board member of the Salvation Army. Her art has appeared internationally including at the American Painters in Paris Exhibition, the Smithsonian, and the White House.

She is survived by her two sons Nicholas (wife Dorothy) of Charleston, South Carolina, and Robert (wife Nancy) of Boston; sisters Phyllis Papani Godwin ’44 of Hingham and Virginia Papani Roth ’50 of Warren, Vermont; and six grandchildren: Nicholas, Daniel, Alexander, Oliver, Lilianna, and Juliette.

1946 Neil Scholl ’46 Neil D. Scholl, of Barnstable and formerly of Randolph, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2021, at the age of 93.

Born in Chillicothe, Ohio, Neil moved at a young age to the family's Claff Estate in Randolph. He attended Thayer Academy in Braintree and later Ohio State University, where he earned his degree in Business and Accounting. Neil proudly served his country in the US Army's 519th Military Police Battalion in Okinawa and received the Army of Occupation Medal Japan World War II Victory Medal.

Neil worked as an executive in the family business at MB Claff and Sons box company in Brockton. He later owned and operated Lyons Stationery and Office Supply in Randolph Center for many years.

Active in the community, Neil was a board member for Brockton Federal Savings and Loan. He was a Rotarian, recognized for 50 years of perfect attendance, in Brockton and on Cape Cod. In his free time, he enjoyed tending to his fish in his koi pond, growing his beautiful orchids, and his love for all animals.

Neil was a champion pigeon breeder and racer, and he earned many trophies and recognition from around the world. He was also an active member of the Rhododendron Club on Cape Cod. Neil had a great sense of humor and will be remembered for a

60

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

well-lived and accomplished life. He will be sorely missed by all who were blessed to have known him.

Neil was the husband of the late Evelyn (Eagles) Scholl. Loving father of Sandra Scholl Brammer ’71 and her husband James of Norton; Karen Scholl Anzuoni ’80 and her husband Kevin Anzuoni ’80 of Norton; and Gary Scholl ’74 and his wife Vickiann of Putney, Vermont. Brother of Barbara "Bobbi" Albre of Florida. Also survived by nine grandchildren and 11 greatgrandchildren.

1948 J. Nelson Beveridge ’48 John Nelson Beveridge, of Scituate, died peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, June 6, 2021, surrounded by loved ones.

He was born April 2, 1931, to Madeline and Malcom Beveridge of Quincy. He also had a younger brother, Malcom Jr., who died at an early age. Nelson lived a long, happy life and even at 90 never stopped moving. He always worked hard and gave to others.

Whether mowing lawns or pumping gas, Nelson worked his way through Thayer Academy where he spent four years participating in numerous activities, including theater, glee club, and skiing; he also served as both the football and baseball manager. At Colby College, he enrolled in ROTC. Upon graduation, Nelson enlisted in the Navy, cementing a lifelong passion for the sea as a gunnery officer at the end of the Korean War. In civilian life, he had a long, successful career in regional sales for Owens Corning Fiberglass. He married early and had two daughters; then in 1977 he found his soulmate in Evelyn J. Crowley of Scituate and welcomed her four children into an extended family with a bond of marriage that lasted 43 years. Later in his career, Nelson joined a growing construction supply company, Kamco, and helped lead its rapid success for the next 20 years.

Work colleagues will remember him for his strong business sense. But others will simply remember him for his kindness, generosity, and impish smile. He gave back in so many ways through nonprofit programs that delivered food and provided clothing, and also as a board member of Etrusco, supplying free medical equipment to local people in need. He gave back through the First Trinitarian Congregational Church for 46 years and was a good neighbor for 90

years, one who would show up to do yard work or shovel snow for those who couldn't.

He loved his family, his golf, his sailing, and his convertible ’69 Beetle! He was always building, whether projects in the basement or treehouses for the kids. He enjoyed traveling, skiing and, when the opportunity arrived, dancing. Nelson could tear up a mean Jitterbug! A proud Scotsman, Nelson golfed right until the end at his second home, The Hatherly Country Club.

Nelson is survived by his loving wife Evie; his three daughters Karen, Janice, and Kacey; and his three sons Ned, Chris and Peter. He also left behind 12 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and a very full life.

And although Nelson loved the rough and stormy seas, he will always be remembered as a gentle, kind soul, and the world will miss him greatly.

Howard Gaskill ’48

Howard H. Gaskill, 91 of Hooksett, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Saturday, June 26, 2021. Born May 16, 1930, in Cambridge, he was the son of the late Howard and Alice (Hardcastle) Gaskill.

Howard was raised in Weymouth and graduated from Thayer Academy. At Thayer, he was known for his athletic ability on the football and baseball field as well as for his fun personality and his helpfulness around campus. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Colby College and Boston University. He attained the rank of Captain in the United States Marine Corps and also served 12 years in the Reserves. Baseball was a big part of Howie's younger years, having pitched in prep school, college, the Marine Corps, and the Canadian Professional League.

After retiring from New England Telephone Company, he worked for the Governor ’s office of Emergency Management for the State of New Hampshire. Howie enjoyed being an “MC” at many events, captivating his audience with his humorous wit. He loved skiing and golfing and was a member of The Concord Country Club for 50 years.

An avid New England sports fan, Howie will be remembered by his family for his gift of time by never missing a game or an event for his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed volunteering for The United Way and Toys for Tots.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Elaine Howe. He is survived by his wife, Ruth (Swan) Gaskill

Joan Balmayne Giles ’48 Joan Balmayne Giles, 90, of Winthrop, Maine, died Saturday, August 7, 2021, at the Captain Lewis Residence in Farmingdale, Maine, after a brief hospitalization. Joan was the daughter of the late Doris and Colin Balmayne of Milton. The family later moved to Braintree.

At Thayer Academy, Joan played field hockey, basketball, and softball and is remembered as both fun and dependable.

Joan was a legal and executive secretary with the law firm of Goodwin and Procter until 1960. She also worked with the Arlington Trust Company as an executive assistant.

She was married to her husband, Norman D. Giles, in 1957 and shared 49 years together before his passing. They settled in Boxford, where she raised her family and was a member of the New Meadows Garden Club. Together with her family, she spent many summers on Nantucket enjoying the natural beauty and history of the island. She also looked forward to traveling with her husband and close friends to various islands in the Caribbean as a winter break for many years.

Joan was an avid reader and especially enjoyed biographies. She had an encyclopedic knowledge of people, places, and history that captivated and amazed listeners. Joan and her husband also shared a passion for antiques, and over the years they collected many items to furnish their homes in Boxford and Nantucket.

Joan was predeceased by her husband, Norman, and her daughter, Susan GilesGagne. She is survived by her sister, Mary Jane Skidmore ’52 of Cummings, Georgia; her son, Steven D. Giles and his wife, Patricia Giles, of York, Maine; and her sonin-law, Richard Gagne of Winthrop, Maine.

Additionally, she leaves four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

John Wilson ’48 John W. Wilson, age 91, of Scituate, born and raised in Quincy, passed away on May 31, 2021, of natural causes at his home in Scituate.

Beloved husband of Mary Perkins Wilson. Loving father of Emmy and her husband John Daniels of Woodbridge, Virginia; John Jr. and his wife Teresa Wilson of Hanover. Brother of the late Audrey Britton of Weymouth. Son of the late Claude and Helen Wilson of UK and Quincy. Cherished grandfather of seven and will be remembered by his many nieces and nephews. His family is giving thanks to the many nurses and aides who kept John comfortable in his final years.

John first attended Quincy High School and then went on to graduate from Thayer Academy and Northeastern University.

From college he went on to a 40-year career in accounting and sales, retiring at age 65.

In his retirement years, he kept busy by working part-time up until 82 years of age at Belsan Bait & Tackle shop in Scituate.

This is where he made many new friends and shared his love for fishing with anyone and everyone who would listen.

1950

Deacon Sr.

Charles Deacon Jr. ’50 The Rev. Charles A. Deacon Jr. died Sunday May 30, 2021, at Beechwood Homes after a long illness. Born in Quincy on May 12, 1932, he was the son of the late Charles A. and Winnifred (nee McQuinn)

Father Deacon graduated from Thayer in 1950 where he was known as a skilled drummer and valued member of the school’s band and orchestra. Later, he was ordained in the Diocese of Rochester in 1963 after graduating from Philadelphia Divinity School in 1962. He served as an Episcopal Priest for 58 years, mainly for the Diocese of Western New York and Western Pennsylvania. He also worked for Niagara County Social Services for 20 years. Fr. Deacon is survived by his wife Deborah (nee Dickinson) Deacon.

He was predeceased by his wife Ann (nee Dobbs) Deacon, who passed away May 28, 2005. Fr. Deacon was the father of Dr. Martha (Ron) Kershaw, Andrew (Barbie) Deacon, and the late Amy (Jack) Ives. He was a proud grandfather of Elizabeth Kershaw, Valdeva (Matt) Crema,

Stephan Deacon, and Henry Deacon.

Fr. Deacon was the brother of the late Virginia (Charles) Carter, Winnifred (Carl) Jackson, and Claire (Edward) Durgin. He is survived by many nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren. Fr. Deacon was a Mason for 66 years and a member of the Niagara Lodge #375. He also volunteered at LCTV and was a benefactor for the Dale Association of Lockport. He was involved in several Toastmasters groups locally including the AM Lockport Toastmasters.

He has been published locally through his work with the Northtown Writers.

IN MEMORIAM: 1950s-1960s

of Hooksett with whom he shared 67 years of marriage; daughter Julianne Manchester and her husband Rick of Hooksett; and son David Gaskill of Florida. He also leaves his grandchildren, Lisa Linehan and her husband Brian, Kevin Manchester, Matthew Manchester, and Elizabeth Windhauser; six great-grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.

1952 Robert Joyce ’52 Robert B. Joyce, 86, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away Wednesday, August 4, 2021.

Born December 5, 1934, in Quincy, he was the son of the late Harry J. and Ruth B. Joyce. He graduated from Thayer Academy in 1952 where he was an honor roll student and a member of the glee club and band.

After Thayer, he went on to graduate from Boston University. Robert served from 1952 through 1961 in the Air and Army National Guard. He worked as an aircraft mechanic, corporate pilot, and FAA air traffic controller at the Chicago O'Hare tower and Fort Wayne tower, from which he retired. Bob enjoyed traveling, sailing, snow skiing, and flying and maintaining his own ex-military airplanes. He was a member of "QB" (Quiet Birdmen), The American Legion, and former member of the Air Force Association.

Surviving are his son, Kenneth (Beverly) Joyce of Brownsburg, Indiana; brother, Donald Joyce of Pembroke; grandchildren, Nicole (Danno) Wilkerson of Snohomish, Washington, and Dylan Schultz of Carmel, Indiana; and numerous nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Cynthia A. Joyce; and two sisters, Janice Joyce DalPra and Carol Joyce.

1953 Ralph Cahill ’53 Ralph F. Cahill, age 86, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, died Friday, July 23, 2021, at Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis. He was the beloved husband of 50 years to Judy (Shadrawy)

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

61

IN MEMORIAM: 1950s-1960s

Cahill. Born in Boston on June 16, 1935, he was the son of the late Francis and Alice (Kane) Cahill. Ralph was a resident of Ft. Lauderdale, spending his summers in West Yarmouth. He had previously resided in Franklin for 10 years and, prior to that, in Medfield for 30 years.

Ralph grew up in Milton and graduated from Thayer Academy in 1953. At Thayer, Ralph was class president and played baseball and basketball, serving as a captain during his senior year. He went on to earn his law degree from Boston University School of Law. Ralph served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War for three years as a Judge Advocate General. Before his retirement, he was the General Counsel for the Boston Redevelopment Authority for 30 years.

Ralph was an avid baseball fan and memorabilia collector. He coached for the Milton Babe Ruth League and the Medfield Little League for many years.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Mark Cahill and his wife Kathleen of Long Island, New York, and David Cahill and his wife Nichole of Franklin; and six granddaughters, Miranda, Isabella, Olivia, Victoria, Clementine, and Zelda. He is also survived by his sister Claudia Wheaton and her husband Al of Sarasota, Florida; along with his niece and three nephews, Jennifer, Gregory, Fran, and Andrew.

1957 Robert Paine ’57

Robert "Bob" Paine, age 81, of Sagamore Beach, passed away comfortably and peacefully on March 29, 2021, at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth, surrounded by his loving family. Bob was born in the Forest Hills neighborhood of Boston, was raised in Quincy, and was a graduate of Thayer Academy and Northeastern University.

He was the former owner of General Auto Supply in Quincy, a company started in 1951 by his parents, where he continued to work full-time until his passing. Bob loved coaching youth hockey and served as the president of the Hanover Youth Hockey Association for a number of years during the 1960s and 1970s. As a grandfather, Bob

62

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

enjoyed nothing more than watching his grandchildren participate in various activities. Bob and Bonnie were often recognized as the Team Grandparents on their grandchildren's numerous teams, as they loved watching all of the players.

To continue his love of hockey, Bob began attending Bourne High School hockey games at Gallo Arena. He also loved working with his hands; he spent decades working on his extensive model train collection and train table, and was a skilled wood craftsman.

Bob was a devoted, loving husband of 60 years to Bonnie Paine. Together they built a beautiful family. In addition to his wife, Bob is survived by his son Donald "Scott" Paine ’80 and his wife Deborah Paine of Scituate; daughter Cindy Paine Ciessau ’82 and her husband Bob Ciessau of Scituate; and his much-loved grandchildren, Ryan Paine and his wife Kaci, Rachel Paine and her boyfriend Collin, Alex Ciessau and his fiancée Ilayda, Tucker Ciessau and his fiancée Jennifer, and Trevor Ciessau and his girlfriend Shannon. Bob was the son of the late Marion and Ellsworth "Al" Paine.

1963 Ronald H. Shone ’63 ​​ Ronald "Ronnie" Shone, of Scituate, passed away August 28, 2021, after a long, brave battle with cancer. Ronnie is predeceased by his parents, H. Ronald Shone and M. Beverly Shone.

He and his brother, Robert "Bob" Shone ’64, were raised from a very young age in the family business - Ronnie Shone General Store - but still had time for countless adventures and pickup games.

Ronnie graduated from Thayer Academy in 1963 where he was president of his class and a three-sport athlete. He went on to Bowdoin College, Class of 1967, for whom he played football. He was a proud Marine. Ronnie's first job was setting up library systems for colleges in the US/Canada in a pre-computer age.

The death of his father in 1973 brought him back to the store which became his legacy.

Survived by his wife, Karen Nechtem Shone, his son, Brad Shone ’94 (wife, Jennifer, daughter, Sophie), his daughter, Robin Shone Hutton ’98 (husband, Jeff

and children, Marisa, Molly, Alex), brother, Robert Shone (wife, Jennifer, children, Brint and Tristan and their families); close-knit Nechtem inlaws, Judge Amy Nechtem, Todd and Lynne Nechtem, and their children/ grandchildren.

Ron loved life. His passions included golf, fishing, crossword puzzles, and most of all his grandchildren who called him “Ronnie.” Find peace, Ronnie, and hit ’em straight.

1965 Kenneth Dillon ’65

After a short battle with metastatic cancer, Kenneth Robert Dillon died July 19, 2021, in the company of friends in the Care Dimensions Hospice House in Lincoln. He was the only child born to Dorothy “Dot” Browne Dillon and George Albert Dillon.

Ken was born August 9, 1947, and grew up in South Weymouth. He graduated cum laude from Thayer Academy in 1965 where he was the Debate Club president and a member of the Latin Club. Subsequently, he attended the Georgetown School of Foreign Service from which he received a Bachelor of Science in 1969. Returning to Boston and Cambridge, he began a long and distinguished career in banking and finance, culminating in 20 years at the Cambridge Savings Bank, retiring in December 2019 as a Senior Vice President and Team Leader.

Ken was from a musical family, and he demonstrated his love for classical music throughout his life. His grandmother was a concert classical pianist and his mother an accomplished cellist. An excellent pianist himself, Ken would regale any social occasion when there was a piano available with some of his favorite pieces: Schubert’s Trout, Strauss’s The Voices of Spring, and anything by Beethoven, whose birthday he celebrated religiously each year. Nothing could be better for Ken than an afternoon or evening performance of the Boston Symphony Orchestra followed by some fine dining in one of his favorite restaurants in Boston or Cambridge.

He is survived and will be missed by his goddaughters Maria Coleman English and Abigail Burns Patterson; by his dear friends Penny Dincauze, Keith Beardsley, Brian Kelly, Elizabeth and George Burns and family, and Janice and Jack Coleman ’65 and family; and by the many whose lives he made better.

1966 Gerald Hurst Stanney ’66 Gerald Hurst Stanney Jr., "Gerry,” of Mashpee, formerly of Plymouth, passed away peacefully at his home on September 13, 2021. He was the beloved husband of Susan (Files) Stanney with whom he shared 51 wonderful years of marriage.

Gerry was born October 2, 1948, in Boston to the late Gerald H. Stanney Sr. and Barbara (Titus) Stanney. Gerry graduated from Thayer Academy and went on to receive his bachelor's degree from UMass.

He worked as the Chief Compliance Officer for a mutual fund company.

Always a compassionate man, Gerry was a longtime supporter of the Housing Assistance Corporation (HAC). He was

also a man of faith and was a committed parishioner of St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Osterville. Gerry was sociable and enjoyed friendship and camaraderie as a member of the Osterville Men's Club. He was an avid reader, appreciated architecture, and enjoyed cooking. More than anything, Gerry enjoyed spending time with his friends and family and will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

Gerry is survived by his wife Susan Stanney, of Mashpee; his son Jonathan Stanney and his wife Jessica, of Osterville; his son Scott and his wife Lori, of Ashland; his son Geoff Stanney and his fiancé Oshetisi, of Bourne; his grandchildren Lydia, Vivian, Weston, Lillian, and Benjamin; his sister Sherrill Burkard, of Mashpee; as well as many dear friends and extended family members.

1968 Brian Reardon ’68 Brian Andrew Reardon, age 71, of Provincetown and Boston, beloved partner of Drew Kawasaki, died suddenly at Cape Cod Hospital of a heart attack after exercising on May 18.

Brian was the son of the late George Daniel Reardon ’35 and Ruth Salter Reardon.

Educated at Thayer Academy, Brian was a member of the football and track teams.

He was also on the yearbook staff and was a weightlifter. Brian went on to Georgetown University and Babson College, where he received an MBA. Brian grew up in Quincy and Hingham; he lived most of his life in Boston before retiring to Provincetown with his partner.

Brian worked for President Chevrolet in Quincy, General Dynamics at the Fore River Shipyard, and Fidelity Investments in Boston. He was volunteer treasurer and a member of the Prudential Committee of the Arlington Street Church, and he worked as church administrator and building manager for Church of the Covenant in Boston. After his retirement, he became active with the Unitarian Universalist Meeting House in Provincetown and worked at Seashore Point, a senior residence and care center. He also volunteered at the Provincetown Soup Kitchen and other local nonprofits.

He was predeceased by his sister, Marcia and survived by his siblings and their spouses: Daniel Reardon Reardon Thomas ’62,

and his wife Elizabeth (Morse) of East Greenwich, Rhode Island; William Reardon ’64 and his wife Katharine (Weston) of Hingham; Philippe Thomas of Montreal; Patricia Reardon and Andrew Vorkink of North Hampton, New Hampshire; and George and Susan (Erburu) Reardon of South Pasadena, California; along with 35 nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews and many cousins, including Martha Reardon Bewick ’58, Dave Reardon ’60, Tom Reardon ’64; and friends and former colleagues, all of whom are bereft at his unexpected passing but rejoice that he was part of their lives.

’60

IN MEMORIAM: -1960s-1970

Ken had a profound knowledge of domestic and international politics, economics, and history. He had an encyclopedic understanding of railroads, American and otherwise, including their history, finance, and day-to-day operations. He enjoyed sharing this eclectic knowledge with his friends. Ken was a good friend. Although somewhat shy and retiring in high school, he kept those friendships throughout his life. At Georgetown School of Foreign Service, he was a key member of a set of students who christened themselves the T Street Group. He referred to their postgraduate, periodic social gatherings as Summit Meetings. Ken considered many of his colleagues in banking and even his clients in commercial finance good friends, and he spent many holidays and festive events throughout New England, Georgia, and Indianapolis with these friends and their families. Though the last in his small biological family, Ken Dillon was part of a large and caring community. He was a generous host when entertaining and a grateful guest. He was a valued mentor to his friends' children and his younger colleagues. He was an honest broker who cared deeply about his job and his clients.

1969 Daniel Farnham ’69

Daniel M. Farnham, of Carver, lost his courageous battle to cancer at the age of 70 on May 28, 2021.

Dan was the loving husband of 49 years to Marguerite "Maggie" Robinson and a dedicated father of Linda Farnham Smith and her husband Brian Smith of Carver and Kevin Farnham and his wife Faith of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Dan was an Adoring Papa to Kaylee, Caitlin, Ryan, and Henry Farnham and Kendall, Colin, and Riley Smith. Dan is survived by his brothers Charles and his wife Theresa of East Bridgewater and Robert and his wife Shirley of Alliance, Ohio, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his two parents, his stepfather, and two brothers, Thomas and Gregory Farnham. Born on April 27, 1951, in Melrose, son to the late Harriet and Charles Morrissey, later adopted by his stepfather Richard A. Farnham. Dan grew up in East Bridgewater where he attended East Bridgewater Schools and then Thayer Academy in Braintree.

At Thayer, he was a weightlifter and played baseball. He graduated in 1972 from Mass Maritime Academy with a B.S. degree in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering.

Dan was a retired Senior Engineering Specialist for F.M Global and a licensed U.S Merchant Marine Officer. His passion was his family and grandchildren, and he enjoyed woodworking, fishing, and his ’69 Corvette. Dan will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

63

IN MEMORIAM: 1970s

1970 Thompson Crosby ’70 Thompson Wood Crosby Jr. was born September 11, 1952, and passed away June 23, 2019, at Smilow Cancer Hospital in New Haven, Connecticut. Tom grew up in Milton, later graduating from Thayer Academy in 1970. At Thayer, Tom was an honor roll student, played soccer, and was a member of the yearbook staff and chess club.

Tom is survived by his parents Thompson W. Crosby and Diane P. Crosby of Essex, Connecticut; his sister Barbara Crosby Gerth ’72; his brothers Charles B. Crosby and his wife Ann P. Crosby and Donald P. Crosby and his wife Nancie M. Crosby; seven nieces and nephews; and many other family and friends.

Joseph Gillis ’70 Joseph "Joe" Gillis passed away unexpectedly at his residence in Newton. He was the first son of the six children born to Dr. Joseph L. Gillis and Eileen Fleming Gillis.

school's history. Joe then attended a postgraduate year at The Hotchkiss School in Lakeville, Connecticut, before matriculating at Boston College where he continued his hockey career as well as majoring in finance in the business school.

Upon graduation, Joe embarked on a successful career in sales at John Hancock and then numerous other notable companies before his retirement. After retirement, Joe split his time between Naples, Florida, where he loved to spend winters and fishing, and his residence in Newton.

Throughout his career and retirement, he enjoyed returning to Boston College for the football and hockey games, but most of all, he enjoyed time with his family, particularly his nieces and nephews who brought him the greatest joys in his life. He always was, and remained, an avid Boston sports fan, and particularly a hockey fan.

He is survived by his mother Eileen Fleming Gillis, formerly of Milton and currently of Naples, Florida; and his siblings Kathy Sayre of Farmington, Connecticut, Julie Dutcher of Beverly, Michael Gillis of Westwood, and Brian Gillis of Naples, Florida; along with his beloved nieces and nephews: Tom, Jamie, and Julie Anna Sayre; Kathleen and Stephen Dutcher; Michaela, Erin, and Daniel Gillis; and Brian, Kaitleen, and Liam Gillis. He was predeceased by his father, Dr. Joseph Leo Gillis, and his brother, Daniel E. Gillis ’74.

Joe grew up in West Roxbury and then Milton. He attended Thayer Academy where he was a standout athlete on the football and baseball teams and was a key player on the 1968 undefeated football team being inducted into the Thayer Academy Hall of Fame. He truly excelled, however, as a hockey player, being named captain both his junior and senior year and graduating as the all-time leading scorer in the

64

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

S AV E T H E DAT E !

F R I DAY & S AT U R DAY M AY 6 - 7, 2 0 2 2

T H AY E R R E U N I O N W I L L F I N A L LY B E B A C K O N C A M P U S , WELCOMING BACK ALUMNI FROM THE FOLLOWING CLASSES: 5th: 2015, 2016, 2017

45th: 1975, 1976, 1977

10th: 2010, 2011, 2012

50th: 1970, 1971, 1972

15th: 2005, 2006, 2007

55th: 1965, 1966, 1967

20th: 2000, 2001, 2002

60th: 1960, 1961, 1962

25th: 1995, 1996, 1997

65th: 1955, 1956, 1957

30th: 1990, 1991, 1992

70th: 1950, 1951, 1952

35th: 1985, 1986, 1987

75th: 1945, 1946, 1947

40th: 1980, 1981, 1982

Check out

www.thayer.org/reunion for all the latest news & updates!

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

65

The Final Word

VIDEO SNAPSHOT OF THE BEAM SIGNING Watch a short video of the Middle School beam signing that took place on Friday, November 5, 2021.

Scan QR code or visit

66

Thayer Magazine /// Fall 2021

thayer.org/MSbeamsigning

MIDDLE SCHOOL BEAM SIGNING Using permanent markers of black and orange, Middle School students gathered under the big tent on the athletic fields of Main Campus to sign their names to a steel beam that will be used in the construction of the new Middle School.

GIVING TO THAYER 2020-2021

View the Annual Report online at www.thayer.org/annualreport

General’s Council / Young Alumni Leaders Giving Levels young alumni leaders:

the general’s council: $1,877–$2,999

Head of School’s Circle $10,000–$24,999

Sarah White Glover Society

$3,000–$4,999

Trustee’s Circle

$25,000–$49,999

Anna Boynton Thompson Society

$5,000–$9,999

Founder’s Circle

$50,000–$99,999

Gold Circle

$100,000 +

Leadership Circle

1-4 years out 5-9 years out 10-14 years out 15-19 years out

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

Thayer 745 Washington Street | Braintree, MA 02184

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

PAID BROCKTON, MA PERMIT NO. 653

MAGAZINE

Fall 2021

Would you prefer to read Thayer Magazine only online? Contact us at magazine@thayer.org and we will remove you from the magazine mailing list. You will receive an email when the next issue comes out with a link to the magazine.

READ THAYER MAGAZINE ONLINE: Scan this QR code to view this issue of Thayer Magazine online at ISSUU. To view all past magazine issues, visit:

www.thayer.org/magazine

Follow us online!  www.thayer.org  facebook.com/thayer.academy

How to Use QR Codes with your mobile device or smartphone:

look for this icon

Open your mobile phone camera

Aim your phone at QR Code

Tap the banner that pops up

inside the magazine for related content online

 @thayeracademy

@thayeracademy 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.