Cathedral Magazine (Spring 2026)

Cathedral T H E M AG A Z I N E O F T H E C AT H E D R A L S C H O O L O F ST. J O H N T H E D I V I N E

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125 Years of Academic Excellence, Character and Joy T H E M AG A Z I N E O F T H E C AT H E D R A L S C H O O L O F ST. J O H N T H E D I V I N E

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The Last Word

Cathedral T H E M AG A Z I N E O F T H E C AT H E D R A L S C H O O L O F ST. J O H N T H E D I V I N E S P R I N G 2026

Head of School Erica Corbin Senior Leadership Team Director of High School Counseling & Assistant Director of Admissions Jaclyn Berney Director of Advancement Laura Gutiérrez Campbell Head of Lower School Laura Higgins Head of Upper School Delilah Lora-Arez Director of Equity & Engagement Chiarna Morton Chief Financial Officer Neeraj Nagpal Chief of Staff Devoynne Prophet Director of Technology Perla Rodriguez Director of Admissions & Enrollment Management Delvida Sène Writers & Editors Laura Gutiérrez Campbell Marketing-Communications Coordinator Jamie Mathurin ’12 Advancement Associate Acsa Welker Design CZ Design Photography Marjorie Becker Jamie Mathurin ’12 Printing Lane Press

@cathedralnyc #CathedralNYC #TheCathedralSchool

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

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Letter from Head of School

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From First Brushstroke to Final Masterpiece

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The Words Between Us

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Little Scientists, Big Questions

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Where Tinkering Meets High Tech

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Beyond the Classroom

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Together We Gather

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Heart and Hustle

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Audition to Encore

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Alumni Voices

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Decades on the Close

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Ready for What’s Next: The Class of 2026

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Generosity in Action

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125 Years in the Making

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The Close Through Time

T H E M AG A Z I N E O F T H E C AT H E D R A L S C H O O L O F ST. J O H N T H E D I V I N E

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Letter from the Head of School ERICA CORBIN

Letter from Head of School Dear Friends, Cathedral’s Mission calls us to develop confident and responsible citizens of the world, and you can hear that mission at work whenever you are on the Close. Our Mission rings out in a kindergartner’s earnest question, in an excited murmur in our library, and in the confidence of a chorister’s solo. It is in the hum of an activated classroom and in the brief pause before leaning toward the microphone at Assembly. The work of this school is and always has been cultivating the minds, hearts, and voices of the Cathedral students entrusted to our care.

In our 125th anniversary year, it is especially fitting to honor the gift of voice. We began in 1901 as the Cathedral Choir School, a community gathered around the discipline and joy of making something beautiful together. More than a century later, that founding spirit endures. We firmly believe that every child has something worth saying, and one of our highest callings as educators is to help our students find the courage and craft to speak out.

Finding your voice is never a solitary act. It is deeply learned in community, often drawn out by patient teachers who know when to offer a word of encouragement and when to simply make room. You will see evidence of this throughout the life of the School this past year and within these pages. We are so proud of the Evensongs that filled the nave with sound; the celebrations that sent our senior students into the wider world with determination and spirit; the quieter classroom moments where a hesitant reader grew into a strong writer and storyteller. Whether at Symphony Space or on the Pulpit Green, our students learn that sharing honestly and listening generously are two halves of the same grace.

This speaks to what we mean when we discuss belonging at Cathedral. To belong here is not to blend in, but to be known: to bring your history, your questions, and your hopes into a community shaped by equity, justice, and inclusion. Our students learn to view the world through that lens, and to then use their voices for themselves and with others. That partnership of self-expression and shared responsibility is at the heart of a Cathedral education.

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This is also at the foundation of Shining Our Light: Strategic Plan 2030. Built upon four enduring pillars and guided by three horizons (Foundational, Celebrational, and Generational), the plan asks us to honor 125 years of history even as we prepare for the next 125 years.

We do not celebrate this milestone by languidly resting in it. We celebrate it the way this School always has: by tending carefully to what we have inherited and by moving with great faith toward what is still becoming.

When I walk the Close on these recent mornings, past the stonework warmed by sun and the blooming gardens come back to green, I am reminded of the partnership between constancy and growth. These walls hold steady; these gardens keep rising. Inside our classrooms, yet another generation is learning to add its fresh voice to a chorus 125 years in the making.

Thank you for being part of our song. It is my joy and privilege to share this publication with you.

With thanks,

Erica Corbin, P’31, P’34 Head of School

From First Brushstroke to Final Masterpiece

Walk through the halls of The Cathedral School at any given moment, and you are immediately greeted by a vibrant gallery of student-created art. While this artistic journey begins with foundational skills in Lower School, it reaches a sophisticated peak in the Upper School, where the arts program beautifully balances technical mastery with the freedom to take bold, creative risks.

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From First Brushstroke to Final Masterpiece

Acts of Kindness Quilt by First Grade Each November, our school community focuses on the Core Value of Kindness and gathers for a special Evensong celebration in the Cathedral. As part of this tradition, 1st Grade students create quilt squares inspired by acts of kindness from their own lives.

Before beginning, students reflect on a moment when they showed kindness or received it, thinking about where it took place, who was involved, and how it felt. Using these memories as inspiration, they create sketches telling the story of their chosen moment, then recreate them on canvas, carefully painting the people, places, and details.

Finished squares are mounted onto colorful fabric and decorated with ribbons and embellishments before being tied together to form a giant Acts of Kindness Quilt.

S E A M L E S S I N T E G R AT I O N W I T H AC A D E M I C S Projects are frequently designed to intersect with the social studies and art history curricula. As students study historical eras, they explore Greek, Egyptian, and medieval art through hands-on projects. This interdisciplinary approach gives students a novel means of communication, allowing them to internalize academic subjects through self-expression. The Upper School also introduces an exciting array of new materials and methods.

Students find their artistic voice through diverse mediums including oil painting, reduction printmaking, calligraphy, and pen-and-ink drawing. They also explore design-focused work such as silk painting, textile design, set design, T-shirt design, and embossing.

E L E VAT I N G T E C H N I C A L M A ST E RY A N D FO ST E R I N G C O N F I D E N C E Building on concepts from Lower School, the Upper School curriculum elevates familiar skills to meet the growing sophistication of older students. In form and dimension, students engage in advanced clay building, sculpting, and drawing from life and imagination. Through spatial concepts, they pursue deep explorations of color theory, proportion, shading, and perspective. While technical skills are rigorously taught, the heart of the program lies in its invitation to innovate. Many projects are intentionally open-ended, welcoming interpretation and risk-taking from every student. By nourishing each child’s individuality in a supportive studio environment, The Cathedral School ensures graduates emerge with both artistic accomplishment and the confidence to express themselves boldly in the world.

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The Words Between Us

Notes from Amsterdam Avenue

Language is at the heart of a Cathedral education. From the earliest grades, students are immersed in a rich, multilingual environment designed to build confidence, cultural curiosity, and a genuine love of communication.

In the Lower School, all students study Spanish. In 4th grade, they spend the first half of the year exploring both Spanish and French before selecting one language to carry with them through 8th grade. In the Upper School, Latin joins the curriculum in 6th grade, deepening students’ understanding of language structure, history, and the ancient world that continues to shape our own.

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The Words Between Us

Bonjour!

Dr. Maria Anagnostopoulou, French Teacher Over the past twentyseven years, I have built the French language sequence from the ground up with a clear purpose: to provide every child with a strong grammatical and vocabulary foundation while preparing them for the transition to high school French. Beyond linguistic preparation, I have always aimed to cultivate confidence, discipline, curiosity, independence, and a genuine appreciation for the Francophone world.

My teaching philosophy rests on a simple conviction: every child can succeed in a language classroom when effort, consistency, and perseverance are present.

I encourage students to embrace challenges, remain resilient, and understand that meaningful progress often emerges gradually through practice and persistence.

My goal has been to help young people think critically, communicate thoughtfully, and engage meaningfully with another culture and language. One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching has been witnessing learners who once doubted themselves begin to express increasingly sophisticated ideas in French with clarity, confidence, and authenticity.

That growth becomes especially visible through the Middle School final assessments. Fifth graders speak and write about themselves, their families, friends, preferences, and interests. Sixth graders describe adventurous weekends while incorporating newly acquired vocabulary and structures. Seventh graders write original stories using multiple past tenses, and 8th graders design and present discovery trips to French-speaking countries, bringing together language, culture, geography, history, and personal reflection.

As I reflect on nearly three decades at Cathedral, I hope the legacy I leave behind is one of rigor balanced with kindness, high expectations paired with encouragement, and a lasting belief that every child can grow when given both guidance and support. Above all, I wish for French to continue flourishing at Cathedral for many years to come, inspiring future generations to approach language learning with enthusiasm, determination, and wonder.

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Hola!

Adrian Lopez, Upper School Spanish Teacher & 5th Grade Dean At Cathedral, language acquisition is a living, creative journey that intersects with art, history, and technology.

This year, the K–4 Spanish department showcased this interdisciplinary philosophy through an innovative collaboration between Spanish Teacher Lynn Zimmerman and Educational Technology Integrator Jamie Solis.

Tasked with exploring the eccentric world of Salvador Dalí, students in 4T embarked on a multi-layered project.

They began by analyzing Dalí’s life using authentic Spanish-language media, then researched and translated key facts about the artist, building the linguistic confidence to present their findings to peers. To bring Dalí’s dream-like style into the 21st century, students used Canva to distort and reinvent everyday digital images, discovering how technology can become a canvas for avant-garde self-expression. The resulting digital masterpieces, proudly displayed on the second-floor bulletin board, represent a brilliant intersection of cultural appreciation, linguistic courage, and digital fluency.

The Words Between Us

Salve!

Theodore Follini-Press, Upper School Latin Teacher & 7th Grade Dean Question: How do you keep the Latin language engaging for our students?

Latin can open many doors depending on what students are interested in. If they like languages, they gain power in seeing how different ones relate. If they’re into history, Latin becomes a window into how the ancient world shaped our modern one. If they enjoy literature, they can see how ancient authors inspired, or were rebelled against, modern ones. I try to give students opportunities to engage in all these ways over their three years.

Question: How does studying Latin support our students’ broader analytical and critical thinking skills?

What I like about studying Latin is that it can open a lot of doors, depending on what students are interested in. If they like languages, it is obviously very beneficial to see how different ones can relate, and there’s a lot of power in that. If they are into history, they can go down that route and use Latin as a window into thinking about the past and how the ancient world shaped our modern one. If they like English and literature, they can see how ancient authors inspired modern ones (or indeed how modern authors rebelled against the dominant forces of the past). I try to give students opportunities to engage in the language in these different ways over the course of their 3 years in Latin, so that they can take something away that matters to their own intellectual journey.

Question: How does the department make Latin accessible, supportive, and fun?

I don’t believe any language is inherently difficult.

We all learned our first language without studying in the traditional sense. Most of our class is built around reading stories, and students are often surprised by how much they absorb through context clues and intuition. The goal is acquiring the language through comprehensible input rather than memorizing and reproducing it. I truly believe every student can experience the joy of reading Latin fluently at their level.

Question: What inspired you to become a Latin teacher?

I owe a great deal to my own 7th grade Latin teacher, Mr. Landau, who inspired us to be creative and helped me see that each new generation interprets the past in its own way. As I got older, so many books I read pointed back to antiquity that it felt natural to pursue that study further. I earned my BA in Classics from Brown University, along with my MAT in Secondary English Education, and was delighted when the opportunity arose to return to Latin here at Cathedral.

Question: Could you tell us a bit about Lunch in Latin?

In the summer of 2025, I attended my first week-long retreat where participants spoke only Latin throughout. The experience revealed the power of seeing the language in a more practical, active light. This past year, I wanted to give interested students more speaking opportunities, and weekly lunches seemed like a fun way to do that. Five dedicated 8th graders joined me: George, Ellie, Ryusei, Leila, and Hudson. By year’s end, students were speaking comfortably and even cracking jokes in Latin. Next year, I plan to expand the spoken side of the curriculum, including writing and performing plays in Latin.

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Little Scientists Big Questions

The Last Word

From our youngest learners to our 4th grade innovators, Lower School science is rooted in curiosity, discovery, and hands-on exploration. Across all grades, students are not only learning scientific concepts; they are actively thinking and working like scientists by asking questions, testing ideas, and making sense of the world around them.

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Little Scientists Big Questions

K I N D E R G A RT E N T H R O U G H 2 N D G R A D E : B U I L D I N G A FO U N DAT I O N In kindergarten through 2nd grade, students build a strong foundation in scientific thinking by engaging directly with the natural world. Our youngest scientists begin by exploring their five senses, using observation and experimentation to understand everything from weather patterns to the properties of matter. These early experiences grow into deeper investigations of plants, animals, and life cycles, brought to life through hands-on projects such as planting a hydroponic garden, raising butterflies, incubating chicken eggs, and caring for brown trout from egg to release.

As students move into 1st and 2nd grade, their scientific lens expands to include space, Earth’s systems, and living organisms. First graders explore the solar system through creative, interdisciplinary projects such as coding robots to model planetary orbits. Second graders deepen their understanding of ecosystems through long-term investigations like the Trout in the Classroom program, fostering both scientific knowledge and a sense of responsibility for the environment.

T H I R D G R A D E : F R O M T H E C LO S E TO T H E C L A S S R O O M In 3rd grade, students ground their scientific thinking in the natural environment around them. Through fieldwork on the Cathedral Close, they identify and classify trees using observable characteristics, dichotomous keys, and measurement tools, ultimately contributing to a digital map of campus biodiversity. Their study of living systems expands through observing the life cycle of silkworms and understanding the role of plants within ecosystems.

Building on this foundation, students examine human impact on the environment through a unit on waste and pollution, conducting a school trash audit and designing sustainability solutions. In the spring, they investigate forces and motion through experiments exploring gravity, friction, and Newton’s Laws, as well as engineering challenges like the egg drop project. Their study of simple machines further connects scientific principles to everyday tools and systems.

FO U RT H G R A D E : E C O SY ST E M S , E N E R GY, A N D E N G I N E E R I N G

A C U LT U R E O F J OY F U L D I S C OV E RY Across all grade levels, Lower School science is characterized by joyful discovery, meaningful experimentation, and purposeful design. Whether releasing trout into a stream, coding robots to simulate planetary motion, or engineering solutions to real-world challenges, our students are developing not only scientific knowledge, but the curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom.

Fourth graders begin the year exploring ecosystems and the relationships between living and nonliving components of the natural world. Through research, modeling, and design, students investigate how organisms depend on one another and what happens when environmental conditions change. Their learning culminates in an interdisciplinary project in which they build ecosystem dioramas, design 3D-modeled animals with special adaptations, and write research papers explaining these dynamic systems.

In the spring, 4th graders turn their attention to energy and engineering. They explore electricity by building and testing circuits, investigate electromagnetism, and apply their learning through coding and robotics projects using LEGO Spike kits. Their work culminates in a study of sustainable cities, where students design communities that incorporate renewable energy and environmentally conscious planning.

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Where Tinkering Meets High Tech

The Last Word

Technology at The Cathedral School is far more than screens and devices. It is a core component of our students’ academic, social, and everyday lives. In an increasingly interconnected landscape, we believe that true technology literacy is a fundamental part of becoming an articulate, confident, and responsible citizen of the world. Through a thoughtful partnership between parents and educators, Cathedral promotes a healthy balance, ensuring that our students evolve from passive media consumers into innovative, conscientious creators.

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When Tinkering Meets High Tech

The Five Core Competencies Our holistic technology curriculum is anchored by five distinct pillars, explicitly taught to prepare students for the complexities of a global digital world.

• Digital Literacy develops the skillful, knowledgeable, and creative use of technology to solve complex problems.

• D igital Citizenship fosters responsible, conscientious, and ethical internet use rooted in mutual respect.

• Digital Wellness cultivates safe, healthy, and balanced relationships with digital media.

• Digital Integrity emphasizes kind, empathetic, and thoughtful communication across all digital platforms.

• Digital Awareness builds an understanding of the complex nature of online information, including evaluating the trustworthiness of sources, recognizing digital footprints, and understanding how consumerism shapes online experiences.

I N S I D E T H E I N N OVAT I O N L A B A centerpiece of Cathedral’s experiential learning is the Innovation Lab, a vibrant hub designed to spark hands-on creativity and real-world problem-solving. In this dynamic space, traditional craftsmanship bridges the gap between traditional and state-of-the-art engineering. Students have daily access to an array of industry-standard tools: Fabrication and design, Makerbot Sketch 3D Printers, an FSL Muse 3D CO2 Laser Cutter, and Cricut Cutting Machines allow students to bring digital CAD models into physical reality. For textiles and making, Brother Sewing Machines and kid-safe cardboard cutters encourage physical prototyping and wearable tech exploration. A fleet of programmable robots, including Sphero Indi, Sphero Bolt, Ozobot Evo, and LEGO Spike, turns abstract coding logic into tangible, physical execution.

A L I F E LO N G TO O L K I T FO R I N N OVAT I O N In the Lower School, young learners drop by during Open Lab hours. These free-choice periods encourage early tinkering, collaboration, and foundational problem-solving through rotating crafting and introductory tech stations. In the Upper School, older students leverage the lab’s full ecosystem for academic milestones. Whether 3D printing original satellite models for science, coding custom animations, or filming historical reenactments in front of a green screen, our students have the agency to bring their biggest ideas to life.

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Beyond the Classroom The Last Word

Some of the most meaningful moments in a Cathedral education happen outside of academic instruction. Through cultural celebrations, affinity group showcases, and field trips, students discover who they are, where they come from, and how they connect to the wider world. This year, our community gathered to honor heritage, explore new places, and celebrate one another with creativity and joy. These are the moments that bring our Core Values to life and remind us that school is not just a place to learn. It is a place to belong.

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Beyond the Classroom

Kindergarten Visits the American Museum of Natural History On May 20, 2026, our kindergarten classes embarked on an interdisciplinary field trip to the American Museum of Natural History, bridging their art and science curricula. Ready with sketchbooks and boundless curiosity, students explored the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation, diving into the wonders of the natural world. The highlight of the experience was a visit to the Insectarium, where students became active researchers, participating in a scavenger hunt that had them identifying pollinators, studying the social structures of bees and ants, spotting camouflaged insects, and sketching their observations in real time.

The exploration did not stop there. From the Invisible Worlds exhibit to the Butterfly Vivarium, where hundreds of creatures flew freely overhead, to the geological wonders of the Hall of Gems, there was no shortage of discovery. The day concluded with a wonderfully personal touch: parent Amy Sonnenborn P’32, P’34 generously welcomed the entire class into her office for a community lunch, celebrating the successful expedition with homemade Rice Krispie treats for everyone.

APIDA Affinity Group Highlights: The Annual Showcase and Fashion Show

Tradition, Storytelling, and Joy: Our Inaugural Lunar New Year Celebration On February 24, 2026, The Cathedral School community gathered for a historic milestone: our first all-school Lunar New Year Celebration. Held inside the magnificent Cathedral of St. John the Divine, the event brought together students, faculty, staff, and families to embrace cultural heritage, celebrate diversity, and welcome the new year with warmth and collective joy. Guided by the welcome and spiritual hospitality of the Reverend Canon Steven Lee, the program beautifully blended timeless traditions with student-led leadership and creative expression.

The Cathedral School community came together to celebrate culture, identity, and talent at the annual Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Showcase and Fashion Show. Spearheaded by the students of the APIDA Affinity Group and their faculty moderator, Upper School English Teacher Ms. Goco, the celebration stood out as a vibrant testament to the school’s commitment to cultural awareness and community spirit. Filling the Dining and Common Rooms with high-energy performances, the Fashion Show offered a powerful platform for students to step into the spotlight and share their cultural pride with peers, faculty, and guests.

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Together We Gather At The Cathedral School, community is not built in classrooms alone. It is built in the moments we share together: on the Close at the start of a new school year, around a table with returning alumni, and in the gatherings that mark the milestones of our collective life.

This year brought a full calendar of events that reminded us why this place feels so special, from welcoming families back in September to honoring a beloved colleague whose 27 years of dedication leave a legacy that will be felt for generations to come.

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Together We Gather

C E L E B R AT I N G C O M M U N I T Y, C O N N E C T I O N , AND THE YEAR AHEAD On September 11, 2025, the vibrant spirit of the Cathedral community was on full display as faculty, staff, and current families gathered on the Close to celebrate the launch of the new academic year. Back to School Night offered a wonderful opportunity for parents and educators to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new teachers, and toast to the exciting journey ahead.

N AV I G AT I N G T H E F U T U R E TO G E T H E R : T H E 2026 C O M M U N I T Y C O M PA S S PA S S I N G T H E TO R C H : YO U N G A LU M N I H O M E C O M I N G On November 24, 2025, the Close welcomed back some of its most familiar faces for the annual Young Alumni Homecoming. High school-aged alumni and their parents returned to campus to reconnect with former teachers, catch up with one another, and enjoy a beloved tradition: Chef Whittle’s famous mac and cheese. Members of the graduating classes of 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 shared invaluable advice about navigating the high school transition and reminisced about their favorite Cathedral memories.

On January 20, 2026, administrators, trustees, and current parents gathered on our historic 11-acre campus for the annual Community Compass event. Serving as the official State of the School, the evening provided a vital opportunity for community members to engage directly with school leadership and celebrate the collective progress of our institution. A central highlight was an update from Head of School Erica Corbin on Shining Our Light: Strategic Plan 2030, a mission-driven roadmap developed by a dedicated Steering Committee of trustees, administrators, and parents. The evening reaffirmed that while societal and technological landscapes shift rapidly, Cathedral’s core remains constant: educating articulate, confident, and kind individuals who are ready to change the world.

A H E A RT F E LT B O N VOYAG E TO M A DA M E A .: T H E 2026 A LU M N I PA R E N T SPRING RECEPTION On May 21, 2026, alumni, current and former faculty and staff, and community members returned to the Close for the annual Alumni Parent Spring Reception, which this year featured a special tribute honoring Dr. Maria Anagnostopoulou, known affectionately to generations of students as “Madame A.” After twenty-seven years as the heartbeat of the French department, Madame A. is preparing to embark on a new chapter on the West Coast, and the evening was a beautiful opportunity for the community to toast her extraordinary legacy.

THE SAMUELS SEMINAR In recognition of retired Lower School teacher and former journalist Patrice Samuels, Cathedral established the Samuels Seminar this year. An annual workshop designed to support potential career changers interested in the field of education, the inaugural February 2026 workshop focused on exploring pathways into school roles, learning networking strategies, and understanding interview expectations. Featured panelists included Cathedral’s Head of School and former advertiser Erica Corbin, Head of School and former civil rights attorney Doug Brophy of The Town School, and Head of School and former journalist Felicia Wilks of The Spence School.

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Heart and Hustle The Last Word

A Year of Growth, Grit, and Team Spirit The Cathedral Cougars had another remarkable year in sports, proving that success is about much more than the final score. Every team was competitive and put together a strong season, but the real highlight was the incredible team spirit that filled every practice and game.

With full rosters and strong participation across the board, our athletes showed up for each other all year long. Players worked hard to develop their skills while putting Cathedral’s Core Values into practice every day, building great character both on and off the court.

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Heart and Hustle

Seven Straight: The Cougars’ Dynasty Continues

VO L L E Y B A L L : A S E A S O N D E F I N E D BY D E P T H A N D D E T E R M I N AT I O N

On February 26, 2026, the Cathedral Varsity Girls’ Basketball team claimed their seventh consecutive AIPSL championship, defeating Geneva 29-18 in a game that was anything but easy, and that is exactly what made it special.

Seven years. Seven banners. And this group of 7th and 8th graders was not about to let that streak end on their watch.

The Cathedral Cougars Girls’ Volleyball team put together a remarkably strong season, proving that true success is built from the ground up. Backed by a large and talented roster, the Cougars demonstrated incredible consistency week after week, showing up for one another and putting Cathedral’s Core Values into practice every day.

It was this unified chemistry and relentless work ethic that propelled the team through a competitive regular season and earned them a spot in the league finals.

Down But Never Out The championship game against Geneva did not start the way anyone had hoped. After the first quarter, Cathedral found themselves trailing 3-10. It did not stay that way for long.

Quinn O. ‘26 described the turning point: “The championship game was very exciting and competitive. The other team was good, however we were able to work together to pull through for the win.”

Quinn and Sophie fueled a second-quarter comeback with key baskets, while Zae B. ‘26 and Nahaira G. ‘26 dominated the boards, bringing the Cougars to within two points at halftime, 10-12. The momentum shifted for good in the fourth quarter, when Nabilah Y.G. ‘26 became a defensive force, racking up steals that ignited a series of breakaway layups. Cathedral closed the game on an emphatic 7-0 run, turning a deficit into a dominant 29-18 final.

The Championship Clash The league championship match pitted the Cougars against a highly talented team from Avenues. What followed was a thrilling, high-stakes contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last point. While the Cougars ultimately came up short in a narrow and hard-fought loss, the final scoreboard told only a fraction of the story. The real triumph was in their resilience; our athletes played with heart, executing at the highest level and giving everything until the final whistle.

T H E H A R D R OA D TO T H E T R O P H Y Cathedral did not coast into the championship. Entering the playoffs as the four seed with a 4-2 league record, the Cougars had to earn every step. First came a semifinal thriller against top-seeded St. Ignatius Loyola School, a game that went down to the wire before Cathedral escaped with a 21-20 victory. “It was a close game,” said Sophie M. ‘27. “Some of us felt nervous before the game, but we came together and worked as a team.”

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Audition to Encore

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Center Stage: Middle School Arts Shine at Cathedral At The Cathedral School, the performing arts are far more than an extracurricular activity. They are a cherished milestone, a collaborative journey, and a powerful showcase of student leadership. This year, our 6th, 7th, and 8th graders took on diverse and challenging works, bringing stories of ancient history, Shakespearean magic, and fractured fairy tales to vibrant life.

Audition to Encore

S I X T H G R A D E : A N C I E N T H I STO RY M E E T S MODERN RESILIENCE The theatrical season kicked off with a long-standing Cathedral tradition as the 6th grade class took center stage to perform their Ancient Civilizations plays. This year’s production focused on the Neo-Babylonians, exploring King Hammurabi’s Code of Laws and the cyclical historical pitfalls of reviving ancient cultures.

What made this performance truly memorable was not just the students’ sharp acting, detailed costuming, and historical dedication, but their incredible adaptability. In the final weeks of preparation, the class overcame a wave of student sick days and two separate snow days. Turning obstacles into a masterclass in teamwork, the 6th grade rallied together to deliver one of the most passionate and memorable productions in recent memory.

S E V E N T H G R A D E : W E AV I N G M AG I C I N S H A K E S P E A R E ’ S T H E T E M P E ST Our 7th grade ensemble invited audiences into a world of illusion and wonder with a swift, magical 30-minute adaptation of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest. Students masterfully navigated the complex emotional arcs of the powerful sorcerer Prospero, his daughter Miranda, the airy spirit Ariel, and a chaotic crew of shipwrecked noblemen, drunken butlers, and vengeful monsters.

Through their performance, the 7th graders explored timeless themes, asking whether to follow the dark path of revenge or find the strength to forgive. The production was a brilliant display of artistic growth, showcasing our students’ expanding comfort with classical text and dramatic staging.

E I G H T H G R A D E : A C O L L A B O R AT I V E J O U R N E Y I N TO T H E WO O D S Culminating their journey as the oldest students in the school, the Class of 2026 brought Stephen Sondheim’s complex musical Into the Woods to life on the Synod Hall stage. A true testament to artistry and tireless dedication, the 8th graders managed every facet of the production, shining in the spotlight while working diligently behind the scenes.

The energy, care, and collaborative spirit they brought to this sophisticated musical set a profound example for the entire school community. This production was made possible by an extraordinary wave of faculty support: music teacher and musical director Mary Kate McGetrick guided the challenging vocals; Upper School art teacher Brian Delacey spearheaded set construction; Educational Technology Integrator Jamie Solis managed the sound equipment; and numerous Upper School teachers supervised the rigorous rehearsal schedule.

From Babylon to Prospero’s island and deep into the fairy-tale woods, our middle schoolers proved that the stage is a place where Cathedral scholars truly learn to soar.

We are enormously proud of the creativity, dedication, and community spirit that defined this unforgettable theatrical season.

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Alumni Voices

The Last Word

Cathedral alumni are doctors. Lawyers. Artists. Educators. Political scientists. Physicists. Whether they graduated in 1965 or 2025, they’re doing incredible things in all different fields, all across the world. Our alumni are vital partners in sharing how a Cathedral education creates a lasting impact, both personally and professionally. As we prepare to celebrate 125 years of Academic Excellence, Character, and Joy, Alumni Voices is a new initiative that highlights how our graduates are making a difference in their local and global communities through their personal and professional achievements.

T H O M A S FO O ’ 77

AVA G I L D E R ’ 16

C A R L E . L E W I S ’65

A current member of our Board of Trustees, Thomas is an excellent example of the lifelong impact of a Cathedral education. After graduating in 1977, he went on to Stuyvesant High School, then earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from MIT and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from UC Berkeley.

A recent graduate of George Washington University, Ava had an impressive 2025 both professionally and personally. Currently based in Washington, D.C., she works as a Fellow at the New Lines Institute, a non-partisan think tank focused on international affairs, where two of her policy reports have been published. Ava also ran the New York City Marathon this past November, raising more than $4,000 for the Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center, and is exploring graduate programs in global affairs.

Carl E. Lewis joined the then all-male Cathedral Choir School in 1961 as a chorister, an experience that instilled a deep appreciation for the arts that has defined his life’s work. His photographs were recently on view at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts Center for Black Visual Culture in “Reflections in Black: A Reframing,” and his work is held in the permanent collections of four major museums. He is the only photographer documented as having captured live, dynamic 20x40 laser illusions in concert in 1980 using an analogue camera and slow film.

Beyond photography, Carl has had a prolific career in business and remains deeply committed to the arts through volunteer service.

“ Even though I am not personally religious, I have appreciated the life lessons that the school and church exposed me to since I was a student.

When I finally reached the working world, my appreciation of Cathedral’s influence inspired me to make my first gift to the School. It was a full-circle moment when I was later invited to join the Board.”

“ Cathedral shaped me into who I am today: passionate, tenacious, and loving.”

“ [Cathedral’s] impact on me has so many refractions, from the intellectual to the spiritual. The environment that was the Cathedral Choir School was a haven for a style and quality of education that had few peers. For me, it was about access to knowledge, not just information. I believe it was the music training that fostered my ability to think abstractly, or not in any box at all.”

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Alumni Voices

This year, The Cathedral School’s Advancement Team launched our new Alumni Spotlight Initiative. As we prepare to celebrate 125 years of Academic Excellence, Character, and Joy, take a look at these seven alumni who demonstrate in their personal and professional lives the lasting impact of a Cathedral education.

M AT H I L DA M C G E E-T U B B ’99

J E F F R E Y N U S B AU M ’00

A N N A PAU L S E N ’ 16

After graduating from Cathedral, Mathilda attended Trinity School, then earned her BA from Oberlin College, her MA from Teachers College at Columbia University, and her JD from Boston College Law School.

Today she is a Litigation Partner at Mintz, where she counsels clients through commercial litigation, consumer class actions, and trust and estate disputes. Recognized by Chambers and Benchmark Litigation, Mathilda also maintains a pro bono practice focused on immigration and education equity, and has been honored with the Lawyers for Civil Rights Pro Bono Award, among others.

Son of beloved retired teacher Howard Nusbaum and brother of Eric Nusbaum ‘02, Jeffrey attended Riverdale Country School after Cathedral before earning his BS in Chemistry from Haverford College, his MD from Georgetown University, and his MBA from the University of Pittsburgh. He currently serves as Medical Director for both the Baltimore County and Baltimore City Fire Departments, overseeing care for nearly 250,000 patients a year. His dedication has been recognized with several honors, including the 2025 EMS Physician of the Year from Maryland ACEP.

After Cathedral, Anna attended The Convent of the Sacred Heart before earning her BA in MathematicsEconomics and Physics, Magna Cum Laude, from Lafayette College. She is currently completing her MSc in Physics at Brown University, where she recently published her first academic paper. Anna is also the Co-Founder of Axia Tutoring (axiatutoring.com), a tutoring company rooted in the belief that every young person deserves a supportive learning environment, and will be joining Citi this summer as a Quantitative Analyst.

“ Cathedral taught me to embrace all perspectives, acknowledge all values, and lead with an open heart and an open mind. It solidified my love of the arts and belief that art in any form can be a powerful educational tool.”

“ Cathedral offered me a well-rounded education that set the standard of academic excellence for the rest of my academic career. More importantly, Cathedral taught me to be a good person. This has carried me further in my career than anything else.”

“ Cathedral had a profound impact on me both personally and professionally.

Being part of a deeply diverse community during such formative years shaped how I understand the world, build relationships, and think about opportunity. That experience was a major inspiration for co-founding Axia Tutoring.”

Calling all Cathedral alumni! We want to hear about how your time at The Cathedral School has impacted you. If you would like to be featured as an Alumni Spotlight, scan the QR code and fill out the form. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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Decades on the Close

At The Cathedral School, great teaching is rarely measured in a single year.

It is built over time, through the small daily choices to show up fully for every student, every class, every day. This section celebrates that legacy of dedication, both through the milestones our longtime faculty have reached and the excellence recognized at this year’s awards ceremony.

Pictured on this page are three of our most recent honorees. Cynthia Diaz, First Grade Teacher and Lower School Dean, and Dr. Maria Anagnostopoulou, French Teacher, Grades 4-8, were each awarded the Lockett Prize, given for excellence in teaching in the Lower School and Upper School, respectively. Alongside them is Mario Flores, Food Services Team Member and recipient of the Core Award, presented to the staff member whose character best exemplifies our three pillars of Community, Carriage, and Core Values.

Their achievements set the tone for the stories that follow: a celebration of faculty and staff whose decades at Cathedral have shaped generations of students and helped build the community we know today.

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Decades in the Classroom

Faculty Spotlight: 27 Years of Music, Joy, and Community with Kobi Mannarino For nearly three decades, the hallways of The Cathedral School have been filled with melody, laughter, and a profound sense of belonging, much of it thanks to Lower School Music Teacher Kobi Mannarino. Celebrating 27 years at Cathedral, Kobi remains as passionate today as she was on her very first day.

“I cannot imagine that there would ever be another school that I would choose to stay at this long,” Kobi shares.

“This school and its community are both a very special place to be a part of.”

A W I T N E S S TO E VO LU T I O N , A N A N C H O R FO R T R A D I T I O N Over her 27-year tenure, Kobi has witnessed the school evolve in countless ways, yet one thing remains constant: Cathedral’s upward trajectory. “I can honestly say that Cathedral School keeps getting better and better,” she notes with a smile. What keeps her anchored here is the daily dedication of her colleagues and their collective mission to look at the whole child, finding intentional ways to build confidence, self-esteem, and resilience through hard work and perseverance.

“We all do our best to nurture, educate, and make sure each child here thrives and grows by being seen and heard for who they are.”

up and tell a joke at a school assembly, Kobi ensures they have the support to do so. “What I love about our school is that every child here feels safe and supported when they get up on that stage to perform.”

L I V I N G T H E C O R E VA LU E S It was Cathedral’s deep-rooted Core Values that truly captured Kobi’s heart 27 years ago. She strongly believes in the school’s mission to raise children who are kind, considerate, and responsible, principles that actively shape the daily curriculum. Kobi also treasures the spiritual and inclusive environment fostered at Cathedral, highlighting how the school’s songs and chapel services honor students’ diverse faiths, traditions, and cultures.

Reflecting on her remarkable journey, Kobi’s gratitude is unmistakable: “Honestly, I could not have asked for a better place to devote my life’s work to.”

Thank you, Kobi, for 27 years of dedication, inspiration, and beautiful music.

Faculty Spotlight: The Power of a K–8 Journey with Alan Donaldson Few people understand the magic of a K–8 education quite like Alan Donaldson. Having dedicated over two decades to The Cathedral School as a kindergarten teacher, an 8th grade teacher, and as a proud Cathedral parent, Alan has experienced this community from nearly every angle.

For Alan, the K–8 model is not just a structure. It is a transformative journey that shapes children into confident, self-aware leaders.

I N S P I R I N G A L I F E LO N G LOV E FO R M U S I C Kobi is constantly inspired by the joy and enthusiasm her students bring through her door every day. For her, music education goes far beyond teaching notes on a page.

“I feel it is my job not only to give them a solid foundation in music, but also to inspire them to love singing and love music,” she explains.

This philosophy translates into empowering students to find their voices on a larger stage. Whether a student wants to play a complex piano piece, sing a solo, or simply stand

SEEING THE BIG PICTURE: FROM K I N D E R G A RT E N TO 8 T H G R A D E As a longtime kindergarten teacher, Alan witnessed firsthand how vital a close-knit environment is for early development. In a smaller community, children feel like an integral part of the school from day one, while being inspired by the older students around them.

“They have these 8th graders to look up to and aspire to,” Alan shares. “They see them as artists when they see

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Decades in the Classroom

the school play or their artwork displayed, as athletes in sports, and as students going throughout their day.”

When Alan later transitioned to teaching 8th grade, he had the rare privilege of seeing that growth come full circle.

“It was one of the most transformative things for me to see students I had in kindergarten blossom into impressive young adults, speaking about their experience at Cathedral and what they were looking forward to in high school.”

T H E PA R E N T P E R S P E C T I V E : A FO U N DAT I O N FO R L I F E Alan’s belief in Cathedral’s mission was only reinforced when his own son went through the Cathedral experience.

During his son’s very first high school admissions interview, Alan and his wife were struck by his maturity and poise.

“We were blown away. He had such clear ideas. He was so able to articulate what was important to him.”

Alan attributes this directly to the leadership opportunities naturally afforded to 8th graders in a K–8 environment. Whether serving as team captains, student leaders, or mentors to younger students, they are given real responsibilities that foster genuine maturity. That foundation carried his son confidently through the college admissions process as well, something he led from day one.

Whether guiding a five-year-old taking their first steps into a classroom or helping a graduate prepare for the future, Alan Donaldson remains a cornerstone of the Cathedral experience.

Faculty Spotlight: The Art of Growing Up with Dr. Mark Thomas To understand the profound transformation that happens within the walls of The Cathedral School, one only needs to sit down with Dr. Mark Thomas, Upper School Psychologist and Yearbook Faculty Advisor. With years of experience guiding students through the pivotal transition from childhood to early adolescence, Dr. Thomas views the school’s K–8 structure as an unmatched advantage.

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BUILDING RESILIENCE IN THE HIGH SCHOOL PROCESS In a city where many families opt for a K–12 institution, Cathedral intentionally operates as a K–8 school. While Dr. Thomas acknowledges that staying in one place can sometimes feel like the easier decision, he firmly believes it is rarely the best one for long-term growth.

“By the time they are in 8th grade from kindergarten, these are completely different students,” he explains.

“What they need and what they prioritize is likely to be very different. It will absolutely influence their high school decisions in a good way.”

Navigating the admissions process forces 8th graders to look inward and articulate who they are. It also introduces a more profound lesson: dealing with rejection. “Our 8th graders have the valuable experience of understanding that you may not get accepted everywhere,” says Dr. Thomas.

“There is a life lesson in understanding that sometimes we get rejected. The resilience involved in learning that that is not the end of the world in 8th grade is an important life lesson.”

L E A D E R S O F T H E PAC K The payoff of this journey is visible the moment a student steps into their final year at Cathedral. With no high school tier above them, 8th graders naturally inherit the mantle of the school’s top leaders. “When they come into 8th grade, it is really astounding. We see them flourish. They are leaders.

They feel like leaders.”

This leadership is cultivated in an intentionally diverse and inclusive environment. Though the school’s majestic physical backdrop often leads outsiders to assume it is an Episcopal institution, Dr. Thomas is quick to clarify: “We are a school that celebrates all religions. Just looking at our calendar will demonstrate the richness of the diversity that we celebrate here at Cathedral.”

A M I L E STO N E L I K E N O OT H E R All of these threads converge each June. Graduation at Cathedral is not a standard middle school ceremony; it is a momentous rite of passage. As 8th graders process down the breathtaking aisle of the Cathedral, they are walking toward their future.

“They will have a graduation that will be unlike any other graduation event they have in their lives,” Dr. Thomas says. “It is a meaningful milestone to them as 8th graders before they move on to the next chapter of their lives.”

When Cathedral graduates step out into the world of high school, they do so with something far more valuable than a diploma: a deep sense of self, an inclusive worldview, and the resilience to handle whatever comes next.

Ready for What’s Next: The Class of 2026

Bold Minds, Thoughtful Scholars: Celebrating the Class of 2026 As the gates of the 11-acre Close swing open to welcome the summer, The Cathedral School community pauses to celebrate our newest group of graduates: the remarkable Class of 2026. Known for their intellectual curiosity, vibrant creativity, and grounded strength of character, these 24 exceptional individuals have left an indelible mark on our school.

Being part of a K–8 community gives our oldest students a unique advantage. Instead of waiting until high school to find their voices, our 8th graders spend their final year serving as the ultimate student leaders on campus. From leading sports teams and spearheading Student Council initiatives to walking hand-in-hand down the Cathedral Church’s long aisle with their kindergarten buddies, the Class of 2026 has beautifully modeled what it means to be articulate, confident, and kind global citizens.

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The Class of 2026

Navigating the Next Step with Confidence The high school placement process is an intentional journey of self-reflection at Cathedral. Guided by Jaclyn Berney, Director of High School Counseling, our 7th and 8th graders look closely at who they are as learners to find the secondary school environments where they will truly thrive. Through our Upper School EXCEL program, High School Prep courses, and dedicated interview coaching, Cathedral students learn the invaluable skill of self-advocacy long before they step foot on a high school campus.

The fruits of this preparation and the unwavering support of our faculty are clearly reflected in this year’s admissions outcomes. Our 24 graduates earned an impressive array of acceptances across elite independent day schools, prestigious boarding schools, and highly selective public schools.

W H E R E T H E C L A S S O F 2026 I S H E A D I N G True to the diverse talents of this remarkable group, the Class of 2026 is spreading its wings across a wide range of outstanding secondary schools.

Below is a look at the institutions our graduates are attending this fall, alongside the total number of acceptances earned at each school.

I N D E P E N D E N T A N D DAY S C H O O L S Trinity School (3 acceptances) Friends Seminary (2 acceptances) Ethical Culture Fieldston School (2 acceptances) Grace Church School (2 acceptances) Collegiate School (1 acceptance) The Dalton School (1 acceptance) The Packer Collegiate Institute (1 acceptance) Avenues The World School (1 acceptance)

SPECIALIZED AND SELECTIVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS The Bronx High School of Science (2 acceptances) Stuyvesant High School (1 acceptance) Benjamin N. Cardozo High School (1 acceptance)

B OA R D I N G S C H O O L S Canterbury School (1 acceptance) Dwight-Englewood School (1 acceptance) Kent School (1 acceptance) The Frederick Gunn School (1 acceptance) The Lawrenceville School (1 acceptance) The Masters School (1 acceptance) Saint Andrew’s School (1 acceptance)

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Graduation

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Generosity in Action The Last Word

The Cathedral School is sustained not only by the dedication of its faculty and the curiosity of its students, but by the extraordinary generosity of its community. Through the Annual Fund, the Absalom Jones Benefit, and meaningful endowments, families, alumni, trustees, and staff come together year after year to ensure that a Cathedral education remains excellent, equitable, and accessible.

Pictured on this page is a moment from this year’s Hoops From The Heart, a beloved Cathedral tradition in which students secure pledges from friends and family, then shoot free throws, jump rope, or hula hoop to raise money for the school. Founded by two Cathedral students who are now proud alumni, it is a wonderful example of how generosity at Cathedral is not just something adults model, but something our students actively practice and lead.

This year, that spirit of giving reached new heights across our community, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who played a part. The stories that follow celebrate just some of the many ways Cathedral families, alumni, and friends came together to support our mission.

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Generosity in Action

A N N UA L F U N D The Annual Fund is a vital source of funding for Cathedral that helps close the gap between tuition and the actual cost of a Cathedral education. As is the case for most nonprofit independent schools, tuition does not cover the full cost of educating each student.

Unrestricted gifts support our greatest areas of need, enabling Cathedral to attract and retain experienced and highly regarded faculty and staff by offering competitive salaries in a high-cost market; support and expand our existing academic and enrichment programs; provide financial aid at a significantly higher rate than our peer New York City independent schools, creating a more inclusive, equitable, and dynamic learning environment for all students and families; offer professional development opportunities for faculty that are reinvested into students through enhanced classroom instruction; and manage rising operational costs.

A heartfelt thank you to all current and past parents, trustees, alumni, faculty, and staff who made this year’s Annual Fund successful. With more than 90% participation from our current families, it is clear that our community is deeply invested in Cathedral’s mission, and we are grateful for your support and partnership.

Thanks to all donors who responded to the Board Challenge. As a result, we exceeded our goal of receiving 100 gifts between May and June and unlocked a gift of $100,000 from our dedicated and generous Board of Trustees.

To support Cathedral’s Annual Fund, please use the enclosed envelope or scan the following QR code:

A B S A LO M J O N E S B E N E F I T Named in honor of Absalom Jones, each year the School hosts an annual benefit to raise funds exclusively for financial aid. Absalom Jones was an abolitionist, community organizer, and clergyman who became the first Black priest ordained in the Episcopal Church. His lifelong work denouncing slavery and oppression serves as an inspiration for The Cathedral School’s ongoing commitment to equity, justice, and inclusion.

This year’s Absalom Jones Benefit was held at City Winery, with beautiful views overlooking the Hudson River.

AJB Committee Co-Chairs Brandon Baer P’29, Amy Brandt P’24, P’28, P’29, Russell Jackson P’33, and Amanda Meier P’31 worked hand-in-hand with the Advancement Office to plan a festive evening for the community. The event featured a Silent Auction with an array of remarkable items, including meaningful Cathedral Treasures, experiences created and donated by faculty members, as well as a high-energy Live Auction and Call From the Heart paddle raise hosted by auctioneer Jacqueline Towers-Perkins.

Special thanks to Kara Berlin P’27, P’28 for her behindthe-scenes planning support, and to Maura and Joel Rotroff P’28 for their generous donation making the Wine Pull possible. Heartfelt gratitude also goes to our event volunteers, including parents Golda Matthews P’12 and Unique Brathwaite P’28, P’29, and faculty and staff members Heather Johnston, Chiarna Morton, Leslie Moreaux, and Delvida Sène.

TTHHEEMMAG AGAAZZI N I NEEOOFFTTHHEECCAT ATHHEEDDRRAALLSSCCHHOOOOLLOOFFST. ST.JJOOHHNNTTHHEEDDI V I VI N I NEE

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Generosity in Action The Last Word

EIGHTH GRADE CLASS GIFT An annual tradition invites 8th grade families to participate in a meaningful opportunity to come together as a class community to express their gratitude for the teachers who guided their children, the school that nurtured them, and the friendships that have defined these years.

A heartfelt thank you to the Class of 2025 for funding a new sign at the Amsterdam Avenue entrance. This bright signage, bearing our 125th Anniversary logo, increases Cathedral’s visibility within our community and beyond.

The Dr. Maria Anagnostopoulou “Madame A.” Endowed Fund for Faculty Resources Established in spring 2026, The Madame A. Endowed Fund will serve as a tribute to Dr. Anagnostopoulou’s transformative contributions to world language instruction and literature education. The fund will ensure that her legacy of high expectations, compassion, and cultural appreciation continues to inspire future generations of students and support the faculty members that make this impact possible.

FUND PRIORITIES • Provide faculty resources, including professional development • Support student participation in world language competitions, exchanges, and immersive programs • Acquire world language books, resources, and materials for the classroom library To ensure Madame A.’s legacy endures, please use the enclosed envelope to make a gift, or scan the QR code:

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The Cathedral School is proud and excited to celebrate 125 years of educating the hearts, minds, and voices of New York City’s next generation of thoughtful, confident, and compassionate leaders.

What began in 1901 as the Cathedral Choir School has grown into a vibrant K–8 community united by a shared commitment to academic excellence, artistic expression, equity, and joy. Over the course of this milestone year, we have honored that legacy through meaningful celebrations, community gatherings, and a renewed dedication to the mission that has guided us from the very beginning.

The best, however, is still to come. Please mark your calendars for our 125th Anniversary Gala on March 5, 2027.

We look forward to celebrating this extraordinary milestone together with the students, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends who make Cathedral the truly special place it is. A formal community-wide invitation will be shared soon!

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The Close Through Time

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T H E C AT H E D R A L S C H O O L M I S S I O N STAT E M E N T The Cathedral School of St. John the Divine—an independent K–8 school rooted in the Episcopal tradition—educates students to become articulate, confident, and responsible citizens of the world through rigorous academics, innovative approaches to learning, and the nurturing of their aspirations in a diverse community of all faiths.

T H E M I S S I O N E N AC T E D : T H E S C H O O L’ S C O R E VA LU E S The Cathedral School is committed to academic excellence in a curriculum that integrates critical thinking, the arts, athletics, and leadership development.

The School believes that the recognition and appreciation of differences in race, socioeconomic status, cultural or religious tradition, age, gender, ability, or sexual orientation enhance the individual’s sense of identity and broaden respect for others.

Through curriculum and informal school experiences, students at The Cathedral School come to understand the inherent value of all people and the importance of working towards equity in all that they do.

The School’s mission is brought to life on the idyllic 11-acre campus of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Morningside Heights on Manhattan’s Upper West Side through seven Core Values: Cooperation, Courage, Integrity, Kindness, Passion for Learning, Respect, and Responsibility.

202 5–2026 B OA R D O F T R U ST E E S Leadership The Very Reverend Winnie Varghese, Chair and Dean of the Cathedral Lucy Culver P’17, P’21 President Aziz El-Tahch P’27, P’30, P’32 Vice President Jennifer Helies P’24, P’27 Secretary Nick Bazos P’26, P’28 Treasurer Erica Corbin P’31, P’34 Head of School Sean Brennan P’27, P’29 Christopher Brown ‘75, P’22 Ann Bryant P’09, P’12 Putney Cloos Aléwa Cooper Rebecca Culley P’26, P’27 Thomas Foo ‘77 Felicia Grant P’27 Jill Hecker P’28 Brigham Keehner P’26, P’31 James Killinger P’22, P’26 Claudie Mabry ‘04 Damaris Maclean P’26, P’28 Kristy Milkov P’24, P’26 Jennifer Mota ‘94, P’30 Adjowah Scott P’33 Andrew Scott P’32 Amy Sonnenborn P’32, P’34 Leon Stiel P’29 Violet Stiel P’29 Ryan Vaz P’29 The Reverend Patrick Williams P’30 Trustee Emerita Martha Escobar P’15, P’17, P’20, P’24

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Kindergarten through 8th Grade Independent | All Genders | All Faiths

1047 Amsterdam Avenue New York, NY 10025 212.316.7500 www.cathedralnyc.org

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