Connections, Winter 2024

Connections Winter 2024

MA GAZI NE OF T HE EPIS CO PAL ACADEM Y

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T.J.’S TAKE

After 10 years as head of school, Dr. T.J. Locke, Hon. reflects on his top 10 favorite things about Episcopal.

EA’s new zip lines are a hit.

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CONTENTS

Features 2 T.J.’s Takeover: The Top 10 Things I Love About Episcopal Greville Haslam Head of School Dr. T.J. Locke, Hon. celebrates his 10th EA anniversary with a special top 10 list

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Departments 12

Snapshot: Swinging Into a New Year

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Then & Now

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Faculty & Staff News

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Around the Green

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Snapshot: Banner, Secured

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From the Sidelines

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From the Stage & Studio

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Snapshot: In the Red Zone

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Class Notes

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In Memoriam

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From the Archives

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34 ED I TO RI A L T E A M The Episcopal Academy 1785 Bishop White Drive Newtown Square, PA 19073 Office of Communication 484-424-1478 mgodin@episcopalacademy.org Office of Alumni Engagement 484-424-1772 alumni@episcopalacadermy.org

Editorial Team Editor-in-Chief: Michele Godin Contributing Editors: Dr. T.J. Locke, Hon. Courtney Brinkerhoff-Rau P ’16 ‘19 Kate Andris Jessica Siso Angeliqué Israel ’07 Kathryn Ercole

Contributing Photographers: Mark Tassoni Ellen Erikson Gary Colyer Michele Griffin Patty Morgan James Quinn Courtney Brinkerhoff-Rau P ’16 ‘19 Jessica Siso

Design: Open Haus Studio Kate Andris Production: The Chambers Group

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T.J.’S TAKE

The Top 10 Things I Love About Episcopal Our Alumni Society has a wonderful tradition where they present an honorary alumnus/a designation to everyone with a decade of full-time service. As I concluded my 10th year in the spring, I am humbled to share this title with all of our brilliant alumni who once graced the halls of our school. In honor of this milestone, our editors invited me to take over our cover story and share a top 10 list of what I love most about EA.

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1 Values that withstand the test of time Esse Quam Videri and The Stripes constitute the fundamental essence of our organizational ethos, permeating every facet of school life. When students and alumni reflect on the value of their EA education, they consistently point to our values. I am struck by the discernment exhibited by our students, who hold a profound appreciation for these principles.

Typically, such appreciation grows with the passage of time; however, it is remarkable to witness the wisdom of a teenager who can understand why we do what we do.

They know who we are, and why it matters.

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2 Mind, Body, Spirit For us, Mind, Body, Spirit transcends the mere confines of a catchy saying; rather, it serves as the focal point of our organizational mission.

This philosophy fuels our work and informs all of our decisions. We believe that all three pivotal elements of development must be represented and prioritized. This commitment to balance fosters a culture of mutual respect across all of our departments and assurance that our students achieve a well-rounded educational experience.

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Talented, driven, and kind students When people ask me about EA students, I always describe them as smart, hardworking, kids of character. Our students are interesting, and they are kind. I think all of the adults who work here will tell you that this is why we do what we do, and that our students are the most rewarding part of our work. Whether within the confines of the classroom, on the athletic field, or on the stage, our students exhibit an unwavering drive and impassioned dedication. In recent years, we worked to expand opportunities for students to allow them to delve more profoundly into their individual passions and refine their inherent talents. It has been amazing to see the results.

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The most dedicated faculty and staff around Many schools take pride in having dedicated teachers who exhibit expertise in their respective fields. What distinguishes our school is the conviction that our influence extends beyond the classroom, transcending the conventional boundaries of pedagogy. Our faculty and staff know that a transformative impact occurs during various facets of students’ academic and extracurricular experiences— be it within office hours, at plays and concerts, on the sidelines, in Chapel, or simply within our hallways. In class, our teachers challenge and nurture students to not only learn new things but to learn how to learn and think critically, and they model this through their own ongoing professional growth.

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Our dynamic Chapel program Chapel will always be the heart of our campus.

It offers us a place to reflect on the fact that we are a part of something greater than ourselves.

Some of our services are profound and somber, while others are lively and joyful. There is pomp and circumstance during ceremonies like Commencement and Lessons and Carols.

Our Opening Day and Spirit Week Chapels are full of energy and enthusiasm. Witnessing our youngest students celebrate The Stripes and joyfully sing hymns is heartwarming. Day in and day out, Chapel is the place we come together as a community and that we can all count on, in good times and bad. In moments of crisis or uncertainty, Chapel is our refuge to which we gravitate for solace and reflection.

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Our rich history and traditions In 1785, the leaders of the Revolution recognized that our infant nation would require future generations of strong leaders in order to flourish. Thus, The Episcopal Academy was born, and we have focused on that goal since day one. With a rich history comes incredible traditions. Some of my favorites are Spirit Week, EA/Haverford/ Agnes Irwin Weekend, Aurora Vesper Day, ArtsFest, the Can Drive, and all of our holiday traditions like the Christmas Tree Lighting, Gingerbread House event, Lessons and Carols, and when our PreK students visit to help us decorate our offices.

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Pristine, state-of-the art facilities Our incredible Newtown Square campus offers our faculty and students an inspiring place to teach and learn. Our classrooms and labs are designed to promote insightful inquiry and discourse and serve as a catalyst for meaningful academic engagement. The Carrafiell Family Theater, Ridgway Blackbox Theater, and Class of 1944 Chapel provide unparalleled performance settings for our thespians and musicians. We have a multitude of meticulously maintained fields and spaces within Dixon Athletic Center that are the envy of the league. We even have alumni who play professional sports and tell us that our facilities are the nicest they have encountered.

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Generosity from every corner We recently completed the largest comprehensive campaign in our school’s history, raising $123 million in just over a decade. The profound magnitude of generosity exhibited by our esteemed alumni, current and former parents, faculty, staff, students, and friends stands as a poignant display of their deep affection for our school. Their investment in EA underscores their commitment to assuring that the excellence they experienced here endures for centuries to come.

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9 A special community As both an educator and parent, I have witnessed the power of our school’s warm, welcoming community.

Countless employees, parents, students, and alumni have impactful stories of how the EA community was there for them when they needed it. We all have ups and downs in our lives, and one constant is knowing that we are a part of a community that cares, unconditionally, about one another.

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10 Unmatched school pride No school can come close to matching the level of school spirit and pride at EA. Everywhere you turn, you will see people proudly wearing their EA blue and white.

The noise level at our athletic competitions rivals the best college games. We bring this enthusiastic support to our students during concerts, Chapel Talks, gallery exhibits, academic fairs, and musicals. While most teenagers cringe when asked to sing, our students loudly belt out the lyrics of our school song every time we play it.

And loyal be to thy dear name! Episcopal! Episcopal!

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SWINGING INTO A NEW YEAR

Spread across nearly an acre, the new Lower School playground has been an instant hit with PreK – 5th graders and their teachers. Through the generosity of four EA families, the new playground was dedicated and opened in early September. Fourteen swings, two basket swings and zip lines, multiple tube slides, and creatively crafted, wooden dodecahedrons (think 12-sided beehives) have added up to tremendous fun for all. The water pump and sand play areas are popular as students whip up sand pies and cookies for friends. “It’s pretty awesome to see them bring their inside learning outside,” shared Kindergarten Teacher Buffy Brown, Hon.

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THEN & NOW:

If You Build It, They Will Come

By Courtney Brinkerhoff-Rau P ‘16 ‘19

The popular phrase, If you build it, they will come, took on a new and urgent meaning in the late spring of 2008 as EA prepared to open the state-of-the-art Newtown Square campus. The finishing touches were being wrapped up, and one major project remained: building the Lower School playground. “Episcopal is Episcopal. It’s a family and tightknit community,” said then Assistant Director of Operations Steve Muir, Hon. “So, the family came together, got to work, and we built the playground in a week!”

Under stifling heat, crews of volunteer parents, faculty, staff, and students wielded saws, hammers, and drills for the all-school community build. Muir recalled that the project would have never happened without the late George Spellman P ’19, the late Rich Crockett ‘82 P ‘19 ‘21, and Will Buckley P ‘19. “They were business owners and dropped what they were doing.

If not for them, we’d still be digging holes.”

Leathers and Associates, known for community-build playgrounds, custom designed the plan. Cannie Shaffer, Hon., then Assistant Head of School, chaired the project.

“She wanted a farm theme to incorporate the silos that were part of the old farm,” explained retired EA Director of Operations Len Haley, Hon. “The Merion and Devon 14

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campuses had modest playgrounds with swings, slides, and monkey bars. The cushioning was wood chips. But times changed. A bigger, interactive playground was needed.”

“There were some glitches,” chuckled Nancy Reinhard, Hon., who at the time was the Head of Lower School at Devon. “Most of the volunteers had to learn how to use the tools on site. And it was a very hot week.”

“I had never used a circular saw!” said Amy Walling, Hon., who was that year’s incoming EAPA president. “And when Will Buckley’s cement trucks rolled in, we had to scramble to dig to the next level before the cement got too dry.”

Because both the Merion and Devon campuses were coming together in Newtown Square, it was important to then Greville Haslam Head of School Ham Clark, Hon. that there was a common project to help bring everyone together.

“So much of what was happening with the new campus involved a limited group of people,” explained Walling.

“This project was really important to help make the extended community feel included. We had surgeons sharing their talents cutting wood! It was exciting to leave our impression on the campus.”

“There were some days we were up to our knees in mud,” recalled April Crockett P ’19, ’21, who was charged with scheduling the work crews. “We hauled lumber, used post diggers, hammered, and drilled. All the lumber had to be routed to trim off the sharp bits of wood. And we stained everything. There were a lot of trips to the hardware store, and it was a lot of people to schedule to get this done!”

Fast forward 15 years and now Muir drops his young grandsons off at EA each morning, where he gets a daily glimpse at the Lower School’s new playground. “The imagination is what I like. It’s not like any playground that I’ve ever seen,” said Muir. “The shapes [and] the way it’s laid out is really unique. Lots of learning go on.”

Finding a way to extend EA’s classrooms outdoors and empower continual exploration was a big goal for the new playground. In keeping with tradition, school leaders wanted to engage various community members to help develop a vision for the new space.

Parents, administrators, teachers, and students were invited to join the Playground Committee. The group spent a year partnering with architects, assessing campus spaces, conducting research on other playgrounds, and interviewing parents and teachers. As the leaders in the Lower School, 5th grade students played an important role in gathering ideas from their younger peers through hosting focus groups within each classroom.

It was ultimately decided that the new playground would be built along the side of the Lower School building and up the hill that leads to the Clark Campus Green. Traditional playground activities—slides, swings,

zip lines, and a gaga ball pit—would be available, in addition to new natural features, like bogs, rocks, water ways, rock climbing, and more.

After much planning, construction began in the spring, and students enjoyed a bird’s-eye view from their classrooms. Hopes to open the playground before the end of the year were shattered, much like the many boulders that delayed the timeline.

“We knew the campus terrain would be rocky, but I think everyone was surprised by the volume and size of the boulders we were uncovering,” explained Chief Operating Officer Mark Notaro, Hon. “It took our crews a little longer than expected to dig up, break up, and remove the large rocks that were preventing us from creating a level ground for installation.”

Through the generosity of the Zidek, Schmidt, and Nerney families, along with the Clare Foundation, the new playground opened to much fanfare this September. Students of all ages quickly flocked to the swings, slides, rock wall, climbing structures, zip lines, and play areas.

“Play represents creativity, exploration, experimentation, and socialization.

It is critical and essential to a child’s overall development,” explained Head of Lower School Dr. Terrence Malone. “Our early education program is a play-based program, which helps children make sense of their world at early ages through play. Our teachers are already leveraging our new spaces for their lessons, and we are so grateful to everyone who helped make this possible.”

And like their classmates, Muir’s grandchildren give the new playground a big thumbs up. “Their favorite features? Definitely the water pump and sand area,” said Muir.

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Faculty & Staff News

CELEBRATING DECADES OF SERVICE

At the end of last year, we celebrated the retirement of three incredible individuals who positively impacted generations of students.

Debbie Castiglione, Hon. played an essential role as administrative assistant in The Roger Annenberg Memorial Library for 25 years. She was instrumental in supporting four directors, 21 librarians, two audio visual experts, and countless community members. In addition to helping to execute the complex move of materials to the Newtown Square campus, Debbie helped establish an ongoing framework to keep library systems running smoothly.

Ginny Spofford, Hon. inspired hundreds of Lower School students throughout the past 30 years.

A welcoming and beloved teacher, Ginny always celebrated the uniqueness of every student. Over the years, she consistently focused on honing her craft and was willing to try something new if she thought it would benefit her students. In recognition of her efforts to create engaging projects that develop collaboration and problem-solving skills, Ginny was named a 2018-19 D’Ambrosio Fellow.

Bernard “Byrd” Miller, Hon. helped campus operations run flawlessly for 31 years. From overseeing mail and package deliveries, to setting up and breaking down for events, to assisting with grounds work and snow removal, Byrd was involved in so much behind the scenes work that kept EA humming. Byrd was recognized with the Staff Excellence Award in 2022 for his dedication to EA.

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE

In June, seven faculty and staff members were honored with special awards for their outstanding work and dedication to EA.

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Bishop William White Award: Ginny Spofford, Hon., 1st Grade Teacher

Class of 1940 Award: Jim Erwin, Jennifer Maier, Hon., Music Department Chair Middle School English Teacher

OUR NEWEST HONORARY ALUMNI The EA Alumni Society continued its tradition of celebrating employees who have dedicated 10 years to EA by naming them honorary alumni. In June, Alumni Society President Adam Murray '02 congratulated 17 teachers and staff members and thanked them for their continued service to EA.

CHAPLAIN GAVIN PUBLISHES NEW BOOK Head Chaplain Fr. Tim Gavin, Hon. recently published A Radical Beginning: A Journey through the Prayer of St. Francis.

In his new book, Fr. Gavin uses his own experiences to teach the values of love, selflessness, and forgiveness while offering insight into the meaning behind the Prayer of St. Francis. Follow @eachapel on Instagram for more Chapel news.

SHARING OUR EXPERTISE More than a dozen EA faculty and staff members were selected to host regional conference workshops, serve on conference planning committees, and present at national conferences in recent months.

Brian Edward Breskman Memorial Fund for Faculty: Tyler Smith, Michael Whalen ’08, Lower School Music Teacher Upper School History Teacher

Hirtle Innovation Prize: Jennifer Jones, Upper School Science Teacher

Professional Staff Excellence Award: Paul Merchant, Hon., Network Administrator Winter 2024

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AROUND THE GREEN

A CELEBRATION OF STEM To celebrate the robust and ever-growing STEM work happening across all three divisions, the Science, Computer Science & Engineering, and Math Departments hosted the school’s inaugural STEMposium in the spring. In addition to interactive activities and demonstrations of EA’s new state-of-the-art Anatomage Table and the Robotics teams’ competitive robots, more than 60 student presenters showcased their STEM projects and research, including those who won awards at the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) Regional and State Competitions.

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AROUND THE GREEN

FROM THE NFL TO NASA: ENGINEER SHARES LIFE LESSONS As part of the ongoing Clare Foundation STEM Speaker Series, students had the opportunity to hear from engineer, educator, former NFL wide receiver, and retired NASA astronaut Leland Melvin. Through his engaging and entertaining presentation, Mr. Melvin recounted stories from his childhood, the NFL, and what it was like helping to construct the International Space Station, all the while explaining how his perseverance and grit were what ultimately led him to pursue his life’s dreams.

THIRTY-EIGHT STUDENTS EARN NATIONAL ACADEMIC ACCOLADES EA celebrated 38 students who were recognized for their academic accolades this fall. Fifteen students were named National Merit Semifinalists, 22 seniors earned Commended Student recognition by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, and three seniors (two of whom were Commended students) were honored by the College Board National Recognition Program.

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LEARNING SHAKESPEARE THROUGH LIVE THEATER The Shakespeare & Company regional touring cast made a stop at EA for an entertaining production of Romeo and Juliet, where seven actors played multiple roles. After Middle School students enjoyed the performance, 8th graders broke into small groups for workshops with the cast. “Live theater is the best way to teach certain literature,” reflected English Teacher Mark Luff, Hon.

THE SCIENCE OF BUBBLES Lower School students experienced small and big bubbles, bubbles made from rubber bands and oversized sunglasses, and even people in bubbles during “Bubble Trouble,” an interactive STEM presentation by Jeff Boyer, a “Guinness Book of World Records-holding, master bubble wrangler.”

The show, part of the ongoing Clare Foundation STEM Speaker Series, mixed comedy, music, and props to teach students the science behind bubbles—and all the fun things that can be done with them.

FIVE STUDENTS WIN ASPIRATIONS IN COMPUTING AWARDS Last spring, five students were recognized by the National Center for Women and Information Technology (NCWIT) for their accomplishments in computer science. The Aspirations in Computing Awards recipients are selected based on their aptitude and aspirations in technology and computing, as demonstrated by their computing experience, computingrelated activities, leadership experience, tenacity in the face of barriers to access, and future plans.

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SNAP SHOT

BANNER, SECURED

EA’s female student-athletes dominated during EA/Agnes Irwin Day and secured the Banner outright for the seventh consecutive year. An unexpected rain soaked the courts and fields early in the day, leading to a postponed tennis competition. Cross country kicked off the day, with EA’s runners outscoring their opponents, 22-37. Next up, EA’s Inter-Ac championship soccer team earned another victory through an exciting overtime goal (2-1).

The day ended with a fierce field hockey battle, with EA coming out on top (2-1). With the Banner already in hand, the Inter-Ac championship tennis team competed a few days later and won six out of seven matches, resulting in a clean sweep of our rivals.

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FROM THE SIDELINES

Winter 2022-23

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Ice Hockey (8-5-1) Independent Hockey League Champion

Boys’ Basketball (10-15) Under the guidance of new coach Taylor Wright ‘11, the team played hard all season. Highlights included a win over Germantown Academy in the finals of the PAISAA Commonwealth Cup, and Kevin McCarthy ’24 scoring his 1,000th career point during a win against Abington Friends School. Led by captains TJ Lamb ’23 and Eddie Jones ’23, the Churchmen improved with each week and wrapped up the season playing their best ball.

Girls’ Basketball (7-15) After a tough start, the girls won seven of their last 13 games to finish the season strong. Gaeli Keffer-Scharpf ‘23 led the team in scoring and rebounding and received a Second Team All InterAc recognition. EA beat CB West High School at the Scholastic Play-By-Play Classics, where Natalie Magnotta ’23 was named game MVP.

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The season marked one of the most successful in recent years, with six wins in league play. For the second year, the team faced rival Germantown Academy in the league semi-finals. Down 6-2, EA came roaring back to win, 8-7. Next, they took on The Haverford School in the Independent Hockey League finals. With a 2-2 tie in the final minutes, Max Godshall ’26 fired in the winning goal for the team’s first league title. Four players earned All-League honors.

Boys’ Squash (15-5)

Girls’ Squash (6-3)

Boys’ squash finished a remarkable 6th in the country among the best 100+ varsity programs. The squad tallied nine wins in Division I at the high school national tournament against the top 16 ranked teams.

The boys handed The Haverford School its only regular season loss. Captain Albert Chen ’23 won the deciding match on senior night to defeat #8 Conestoga in front of a rapturous crowd.

The team tallied two solid Inter-Ac wins over Penn Charter and Springside Chestnut Hill.

At high school nationals, the team pulled together and won three of four matches for an impressive 5th place finish. The last two matches were won by close scores of 4-3 over Hotchkiss and Winsor Schools. Different players were able to win in each match leading to the team wins.

Boys’ Swimming & Diving (2-3) Leadership from the senior captains and upperclassmen led the way for a successful and fun season for the boys. There were top performances and finishes in 1m Diving, 200 Medley Relay, 200 Freestyle, 50 Free, 200 IM, Backstroke, and 200 Free Relay. Heading into the Inter-Ac Invitational, the team was ready to compete and ended up just behind Malvern Prep in the standings.

Girls’ Swimming & Diving (5-2) A combination of young and experienced swimmers and divers helped drive the team to a successful season. While the team had a hard-fought battle against Germantown Academy, the girls regained focus and finished the dual-meet season strong with wins against The Baldwin School and Academy of Notre Dame. These wins catapulted the team into the Cap Championship and Invitational , where the team ended the season in 2nd place overall.

Boys’ Indoor Track & Field

State Champions 800m State Champion: Michael Woolery ’24 4x800 Relay State Champions: Aidan McHugh ’23, Eli Engelman ’25, Dakin Ebmeyer ’23, Michael Woolery ’24 It was a historic season, with the team earning the indoor state championship title for the first time in school history. Eight school records were achieved in the 60m, 200m, 800m, 3000m, 4x400 Relay, Distance Medley Relay, 4x800 Relay, and High Jump. The squad qualified in several events for the PTFCA State Championship Meet, where 200+ schools competed. EA is the first Inter-Ac school to win the state championship.

Girls’ Indoor Track & Field Personal bests, heat and event wins, medals, and school records made for an exciting season for the girls. Nine school records were set during meets at Alvernia, Lehigh, and Ursinus. The team continued its success at the Ocean Breeze Invitational and wrapped up the season running and jumping to more medals at the PTFCA State Championship. The girls competed in the finals of the 60m, 60m Hurdles, 3000m, 4 x 200 Relay, and Long Jump.

Wrestling (12-13) The young team notched some big league wins over Springside Chestnut Hill and Germantown Academy, and had a dramatic come-from-behind win against The Lawrenceville School. At the prestigious Prep Slam at Holy Innocents Episcopal School in Atlanta, Jack Signor ’26 took 3rd and Vern Holley ’23 took 4th.

The team also traveled to CT for the Brunswick Invitational, where they took 4th as a team.

Top finishers included a 4th place finish for Dorian Dabney ’26, 3rd for Jack Bonner ’23 and Danny Hopkins ’25, 2nd place for Vern Holley and Will Hohn ’23, along with championship medals for Jack Signor, Fernando Loor ’24, and Victor Coleman ’23.

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FROM THE SIDELINES

Spring 2023

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Baseball (14-10-1) The team battled throughout the season behind strong pitching and defense. For the second consecutive season, the team broke the school record for stolen bases, as they swiped 104 bags at a 93 percent clip. As the season concluded, four players were recognized with All-League honors.

Girls’ Golf (8-0) Inter-Ac Champions Girls’ golf won its second consecutive league championship after putting past The Baldwin School (228-298) in the last match of the regular season. Clarissa Leung ‘25 tallied the low score of the season with a 36. The team also set a new EA team match record by one stroke in a 200-236 win over rival The Agnes Irwin School.

Boys’ Lacrosse (12-9) The team logged some big wins including against Radnor High School (8-7) and MIAA schools St. Paul’s School/Baltimore (11-10) and Gilman School (11-10). The strong start helped fuel the momentum for the season. Leading scorers included Lucas Slate ‘23, TJ Lamb ‘23, Eddie Jones ‘23, Dylan Jaszcz ’24, and Nick Wolff ’23.

Girls’ Lacrosse (16-3) Inter-Ac Champions Inter-Ac MVP: Alexis Ventresca ’23 With an impressive 16-3 record and 10-0 in the Inter-Ac, girls’ lacrosse finished the season with a top 20 national ranking.

It was a true team effort, as players strategically moved the ball, created space for each other on offense, attacked together, and communicated on defense, all while playing strategically between the 30s.

Girls’ & Boys’ Rowing EA rowing had a smaller team than usual, but the young team showed great grit and determination. The varsity girls’ quad earned a bronze medal in the Philadelphia City Championships, 4th place in the Stotesbury Cup Regatta, and 5th place at Scholastic Nationals. The boys’ four 4+, with two juniors, two sophomore rowers, and senior coxswain, had a strong season with 4th place at the City Championships, 14th at the Stotesbury Cup Regatta, and 10th at the Scholastic Nationals.

Softball (16-1) Inter-Ac Champions Inter-Ac MVP: Maddie Masiko ’25 The team clinched its second consecutive Inter-Ac championship with an impressive 16-1 record. The squad had 160 runs scored to the 32 scored against them. Pitcher Maddie Masiko ’25 had 150 strikeouts in 79 innings. The team had an overall batting average of .379, an on-base percentage (OBP) of .440, and a team slugging percentage of .581. Sofia Santinelli ‘26 notched 12 home runs, 47 of the team’s total 120, and ended the season with a .633 batting average, an OBP of .657, and a 1.450 slugging percentage.

Boys’ Tennis (8-8) The team finished up league play, 5-5, to end the season in 3rd place. Injuries and other unforeseen circumstances led to the squad gaining valuable match experience by needing to play in various positions throughout the lineup. The team was known for its high level of sportsmanship throughout the season and look forward to next season.

Boys’ Track & Field

Girls’ Track & Field

Delco Champions Inter-Ac Champions PAISAA Champions Inter-Ac MVP: Dakin Ebmeyer ’23

Inter-Ac MVP/Judy Krause Award: Avery Elliott ’24

Starting at the Penn Relays, the 4x400m relay won the Inter-Ac Championship race, an event they have won every year since 2018. The team then turned its attention to the track “triple crown,” winning all three Delaware County, Inter-Ac, and PAISAA Championships for the first time in the school’s history. The award-winning season also included four school records. Abaas Hunter ’26 set school records in the 100m and 200m. Michael Woolery ’24 set a record in the 800m, and Dakin Ebmeyer ’23 set a school record in the 3200m.

The team notched eight school records, won multiple medals, and achieved personal bests. Seven girls qualified for New Balance National Outdoor Nationals, where they competed in eight events. The team was runner-up in the Inter-Ac and PAISAA championship meets. The 4x100 relay ran to 34th place, out of 540 schools, at the Penn Relays.

Avery Elliott ’24 set school records in the 100m HH, 300m IH, and the High Jump. Saige Forbes ’24 set records in the 100m, 200m, and Long Jump. Alexandra Gobran ’23 set records in the 2000m Steeplechase and 3200m.

Follow @EA1785_Athletics on Instagram for all the latest athletics news and updates.

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FR O M TH E

Stage Studio STUDENT CREATIVITY CELEBRATED WITH SCHOLASTIC ART & WRITING AWARDS EA students took home prestigious Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for works produced during the 2022-2023 school year.

Presented by the Philadelphia Arts in Education Partnership and the Philadelphia Writing Project in March, the awards program recognizes and celebrates creative teens.

All entries are considered for regional awards, including Gold Key, Silver Key, Honorable Mention, American Voices Nominee, and American Visions Nominee. The awards are then presented to students at a celebratory ceremony and exhibition.

The following students were named Scholastic Writing Award Winners in our region this year: • Isabella Brunetti ‘24: Silver Key – Poetry • Isabel Ding ‘27: Gold Key – Science Fiction • Elle du Pont ‘25: Gold Key and 3 Silver Keys – Poetry • Xinxin Fang ‘24: American Voices-Gold Key, Gold Key, and Silver Key – Poetry and Science Fiction • Sophia Hu ‘24: Honorable Mention – Critical Essay • Katie Lee ‘24: Honorable Mention – Short Story • Clarissa Leung ‘25: Silver Key – Critical Essay • Gracie O’Neill ‘24: Honorable Mention – Personal Essay • Nayan Shankaran ‘24: 2 Silver Keys and 2 Honorable Mentions – Critical Essay and Dramatic Script • Julia Zhang ‘23: Silver Key – Short Story

Riley Thibodeau ‘23: Staring Contest (Gold Key) Additionally, the following students were named Scholastic Art Award Winners for our region: • I’jaaz Abdul-Malik ‘24: 2 Silver Keys and Honorable Mention – Photography • Celina Cai ‘27: 2 Gold Keys – Drawing and Painting • Jack Crowley ‘24: Honorable Mention – Photography • Velina Feuzeu ‘24: Gold Key – Fashion • Jack Gallagher ‘25: Silver Key – Photography • Sophia Hu ‘24: Honorable Mention – Architecture & Industrial Design • Isabel Rozes ‘24: 2 Honorable Mentions – Photography • Riley Thibodeau ‘23: Gold Key and Honorable Mention – Photography • Hanna Tian ‘23: Silver Key – Animation • Aru Venugopalan ‘24: Honorable Mention – Photography • Genevieve Wylonis ‘25: 4 Honorable Mentions – Drawing, Digital, Sculpture, Photography • Aaron Zhu ‘25: Silver Key – Sculpture “The chance to be recognized regionally and nationally is an important step for our students to be celebrated beyond the familiar praise they receive from their teachers,” said Visual Arts Chair David Sigel, Hon. “We could not be prouder of all of those brave enough to submit their work on such a big stage!”

Since 1923, these awards have recognized many world-known artists and writers when they were teenagers themselves. Stephen King, Amanda Gorman, and Andy Warhol were also Gold Key recipients when they were young.

Genevieve Wylonis ‘25: Joyride (Honorable Mention) 28

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Celina Cai ’27: Windows (Gold Key)

Jack Gallagher ‘25: Ave Na Terra (Silver Key)

Velina Feuzeu ‘24 (Gold Key)

Xinxin Fang ‘24: To My Dearest Daughter (Gold Key)

Isabel Rozes ‘24: Amour (Honorable Mention)

Aru Venugopalan ’24: Dad’s Departure (Honorable Mention)

I’jaaz Abdul-Malik ‘24: The Umbrella Man (Silver Key)

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FROM BARNYARD TO GRAVEYARD Last spring, our student-artists lit up the stage with incredible performances that made audiences laugh, cry, and get a little ghastly.

More than 50 Middle Schoolers participated in the Harlequin Club’s endearing production of Charlotte’s Web. Based on E.B. White’s classic story, Charlotte’s Web follows a barnyard pig, Wilbur, as he tries to avoid the butcher.

Luckily, his spider friend, Charlotte, devises a plan that will not only fool the farmer, but will ensure Wilbur’s place on the farm forever.

The Domino Club made the Carrafiell Theater a bit creepier and kookier with their spooktacular production of The Addams Family. The musical adaptation of the classic story follows beloved characters Gomez and Morticia Addams as they cope with their children growing up. Despite generations of Addamses living in their own unique way for hundreds of years, 18-year-old Wednesday bucks the trend by falling in love with a “normal” boy and even inviting his parents over for dinner. During the course of the evening, secrets are revealed, relationships are strained, and the Addams family faces their own biggest nightmare: adapting to change.

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Connections

ASHLEY KIM ’23 PRESENTS THREADS GALLERY SHOW As the concluding piece of her Lilley Fellowship, senior Ashley Kim brought the findings from her months-long research on sustainable fashion to life in her pop-up Crawford Campus Center Gallery show, Threads.

In addition to select sustainable fashion pieces, Ashley’s show featured a variety of photographs and mementos from her Fellowship research of environmental and humanitarian crises behind fast fashion. “The mirrors throughout the gallery are symbolic of my hope for visitors to reflect on how, where, and by whom their clothing is made,” she explained.

At the pop-up exhibit’s artist’s reception, Ashley expressed gratitude for the faculty who empowered her sustainable fashion journey.

“Seeing the show come together has been extremely rewarding, and I’m so grateful for the rare opportunity EA has given me to create a gallery exhibit as a high school student,” she said. “I’ve been touched by the support of my teachers and peers and the genuine curiosity they’ve had for my research, and I feel lucky to have the continued support of the Lilley Committee and Mr. Sigel and Ms. Hutchison in carrying out this project.”

Katie Colyer, Upper School science teacher and Ashley’s Lilley Fellowship advisor, said that she was so impressed with Ashley’s exhibit and her work throughout the entire Lilley Fellowship. “I love that she was able to have this physical component to her project because sustainable practices in the fashion industry is such a visual topic,” Dr. Colyer said. “By adding the exhibit, I think she was able to engage the community in a really impactful way.”

Visual Arts Chair David Sigel, Hon. agreed that the exhibit was an important final piece of Ashley’s Fellowship. “The passion for Ashley’s research was clearly heard during her Lilley Fellowship presentation, but the development of a gallery exhibition further clarified the importance of her research and call to action,” he said. “Through this curation, Ashley shared her vision and desire to be more than a curator of a single show, but an educated participant in making our world a better place.”

STUDENT MUSICIANS SELECTED FOR PMEA FESTIVALS Last year, 20 EA students were selected for participation in Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) music festivals.

Joining hundreds of students from across the region, these 5th through 11th grade EA musicians showcased their talent across choral music, strings, and band.

PMEA is a statewide nonprofit organization of over 3,700 members dedicated to promoting the musical development of all Pennsylvanians. Students are selected for participation in district music festivals through a rigorous audition process. Through their experiences, students gain exposure to playing in large ensembles, learn from other advanced musicians, and collaborate with students from many backgrounds.

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SNA P S H OT

BLUE & WHITE IN THE RED ZONE

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Connections

This year’s EA/Haverford Day was extremely close and highly spirited. The golf team had an incredible outing and fell just one stroke short. The Inter-Ac and PAISAA championship cross country team crushed the competition (18-43), and EA’s water polo team fell after a tough battle (24-7). The soccer team scored the first goal in front of a raucous crowd, but ultimately fell to the Fords (2-1). Looking for retribution after last year’s loss, the football team put their foot on the gas and did not let up the entire game. With the scoreboard reading 28-9 as the final buzzer blared, EA fans rushed the field to celebrate a hard-fought day by the Churchmen.

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Class Notes

SEN D US YO UR N EWS We love to hear from you! Submit your latest milestones, news, and updates to be included in a future issue of Connections. Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.

A WEEKEND TO REMEMBER Last spring, 400 alumni joined together for one of the school’s largest-ever Alumni Weekends. Festivities kicked off with a successful golf tournament, which benefits the Alumni Society Endowed Scholarship Fund. Members of the Class of 1973 commemorated their 50th reunion by spending a full day on campus and enjoying dinner together. The following day, the Alumni Society honored the 2023 Alumni Award winners and Athletic Hall of Fame inductees during a special ceremony. That evening, alumni gathered for a fun party on the Clark Campus Green, where classes ending in a 3 and 8 celebrated their milestone reunions. Save the date to join us on May 3-4, 2024!

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Connections

Class Notes Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.

2023 ALUMNI AWARD WINNERS Distinguished Alumni Award Roger Colley ‘56

Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees Gene Tinari ‘81

Distinguished Service Award Steven E. Copit ‘80 P ’18 ‘19

Emily Clark ‘03

Young Alumni Award Jackie Bailey-Ross Moriniere ‘08 Todd Harrity ‘09

Margaux Viola ‘03

Lydia Williams Sorensen ‘03 Wayne Ellington ‘06

Alumni Community Service Award Caryn Rivers ‘90

2006 Boys’ Basketball Team

Alumni Achievement in the Arts Award Jennifer Lame ‘00

John Smith, Hon.

2013 Girls’ Basketball Team

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Welcome, Class of 2023 EA’s newest alumni were celebrated on June 8, 2023, as 132 seniors graduated during Episcopal’s 238th Commencement in the Class of 1944 Chapel. Greville Haslam Head of School Dr. T.J. Locke, Hon. recognized students for their accomplishments, along with Head Chaplain Father Tim Gavin, Hon., The Rt. Reverend Daniel G.P. Gutiérrez, Head of Upper School Mr. Mike Letts, Hon., and Class of 2023 Form Dean Mrs. Alyson Kurz, Hon. “Over the years, we grew up together and became the people we are today by engaging with everything that Episcopal Academy has to offer,” reflected Maggie Lo, the class valedictorian. “Sometimes we succeeded, and sometimes we failed, but most importantly, we did it together as one class, as one team, and I am so proud to have been a part of it.”

“The Class of 2023 has taken full advantage of the endless opportunities presented to us,” shared Salutatorian Clare Collins. “We have been courageous in the face of adversity. We have found faith within this beautiful place.

We have displayed sportsmanship in the midst of intense competitions. We have respected one another despite our differences.”

The week of graduation, the class was welcomed into the Alumni Society during a special event on the Clark Campus Green hosted by the Alumni Society Board of Managers.

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Connections

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Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.

Class Notes

1950s

1966

1950 Bil Aulenbach shared that he is still writing books and blogs. He just published his fifth book, How to Make Love (the Agape kind) with Jesus, which was released in August 2023. Rev. Bil and his wife of 62 years, Anne, reside in Irvine, CA, where he continues to teach classes, lead workshops, and preach whenever possible.

1954

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Dave Wetherill, Vaughn Pratt, and Fred Jones recently got together for lunch at The Hillsboro Club in Florida.

Jim McVey shared that he finally retired at 80 and now has about a year of “not working” under his belt.

He hopes to see some classmates on the slopes of Aspen soon!

Maurice Heckscher reports that he is living mostly in southern Delaware now. He recently won the 80+ Delaware Singles State Pickleball Championship, qualifying him for the Nationals in Pittsburgh.

1963 Dick Lowry stopped by Lowry House on EA’s campus for lunch with Lauren & Dr. T.J. Locke, Hon., Greville Haslam Head of School.

1959

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1960s 1960

George David has given up ocean yacht racing in favor of rehabbing an old mansion in Newport, RI. His grandson, Georgie (pictured), and the rehab will keep him busier than when he was racing at sea.

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Norm Cocke married Deb Danberry on August 14, 2022.

1964

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Reunion Year 1965

Bob Hallett and his wife, Nancy, moved to Cleveland, OH, to be closer to their son and three grandchildren, ages 10, 12, and 13.

Ralph Pittman and his wife, Janie, moved to Cypress, TX, to be closer to their daughter and five grandchildren.

Ralph published a collection of poetry, A Family Scrapbook, available on Amazon. He is currently working on a second collection, Dream You, with former classmate Kip Shaw, expected to be out this fall.

Jim Rhodes reports that he and Curt Tredennick just had their 7th annual golf outing at each other’s golf clubs this summer. Jim said it has become an annual tradition as well as dinners with wives/significant others through the year, and includes Bill Garver and John Packer.

Phil Gleason and his wife, Mary, planned a Class of 1966 gathering, which included 11 alums and six spouses in Gouldsboro, ME, in July.

This special EA and 75th birthdaysthemed getaway at the family farm of Louise & Pell Osborn included conversations on the porch, singing, and several toasts, including one for their recently-passed classmate, Reeves Calloway. They reminisced about both the EA Lower and Upper School memories on the Merion campus.

Rick Hole shared the following about his late classmate, Chip Poole: “We knew that Chip had been very vulnerable and on the threshold multiple times over the last few years and would have crossed over that threshold if not for the meticulous care of his dear wife, Barb, but still the news of his death was a blow. Chip was a remarkable person. He was gifted with a sunny temperament, a quick wit, and a keen eye for the absurdities of our existence. Among the many memories I have of him, I will especially hold dear Chip the storyteller. Words were the tools he used to hold a group’s attention as he built a story by stages with him, at the climax, laughing as loudly as the rest of us. He used words wisely. He used them to create a kinder world and invited us all to live in that world with him. Where others would have hidden their injuries in a secret silence, Chip spun those injuries like an alchemist into stories of absurd hilarity.

In his humble way he had the power to lift the mood of any group. He is irreplaceable.”

Bob Taylor launched a new business working with business owners generating strategic introductions and qualified leads from his network of influential leaders in the tri-state area.

1973

1975

1969

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Celebrating 50 years since their remarkable season, members of the football team from the Class of 1973, including Jerry Holleran, Craig Renfrow, John Segal, Peter Beller, Rex Gary, JJ Broderick, Chris Le Vine ‘75, and Bill Luff, enjoyed a quick halftime photo during the 2022 EA/Haverford Day! Classmates Bill Clark, Peter Beller, and Graham Harkins had their own mini Class of 1973 reunion in Keene, NH, on December 18, 2022.

1974 Criswell Davis passed away peacefully on October 3, 2022. While attending EA, he developed an early and ultimately lifelong affinity for wearing a suit and tie, and fostered many deep friendships that continued to flourish through the time of his passing.

Criswell was a consultant and one of the foremost experts in the world on the topic of sustainable hardwoods, spending the last decade of his life promoting the physical, psychological, and environmental benefits of biophilic design to architects and designers across the globe.

One of his proudest professional accomplishments was the delivery of a TEDx talk in Dayton, Ohio, in October 2019. Throughout his life, Criswell was an avid sportsman, running marathons and various other long-distance events for decades.

He was a music lover and amateur percussionist, a theatrical storyteller, a generous, optimistic extrovert, and a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

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George Bell reports that his oldest son, G3 (pictured), is engaged to be married next April in Miami. He’s a FL state attorney chasing “bad guys” for the Miami-Dade office, as is his fiancée. His middle son, Henry, attends graduate school at the USC School of Architecture, while his youngest son, Jimmy, starts a graduate program in the Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver.

George shares, “I still have too many boards, Carrie and I are staying healthy, knock on wood, and I’m getting back to writing some more.” George recently published a piece in Global Golf Post on the 2022 U.S. Open.

Class Notes

1970s

Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.

1968

1979

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Reunion Year

F. Russell Mechem II continues to manage a portfolio of complex Superfund environmental cleanup projects in the San Francisco Bay area. Work focuses on developing innovative solutions to environmental challenges with difficult technical hurdles and active stakeholder engagement. Other projects address environmental and infrastructure management in the insular Pacific Rim. His wife, Kristine, has become highly skilled in biotechnology, focusing on cancer diagnostics.

Meanwhile, twins Rhea and Ariana are working as science camp counselors and enjoying some time off after busy first years at Northeastern University, studying marine biology and neuroscience respectively. Sean has been living in New York, engaged in finance and technology.

Alexander Wade Stick achieved a #1 world ranking and the World Top Ten award in four different categories as a black belt martial arts competitor in NASKA. He was also inducted into the US Martial Arts Hall of Fame as an instructor. “Sandy” played football and lacrosse at EA. Winter 2024

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Mark Hoplamazian ’81 currently serves as president and CEO of Hyatt Hotels and was featured on an EA Unlocked podcast episode. In the interview, he shares how he arrived at EA as a freshman in what he describes as “a pretty discombobulated state.” He calls the “warmth and engagement” he received from the community “remarkable.” Search for EA Unlocked wherever you access your favorite podcasts or scan the QR code to listen to Mark’s interview.

1980s 1981

After many years living in Europe, Canada, Latin America, and East Asia, Benjamin B. Olshin finds himself in exotic...Wynnewood! Yes, it’s a long story, but he’s living on the Main Line.

Semi-retired, he recently worked on a grant in Iceland and has been traveling a bit for research to Europe and to Canada for fun. He is pictured with his wife, Charlotte, and his daughter, Astrid, atop Parc du Mont-Royal while in Montréal. He sees Ted Coxe, Jr. often these days, and met up with Clint O’Brien some months ago.

Benjamin is happy to hear from fellow EA folks, so drop him a line!

Donna, in Charleston, SC, on February 28, 2023. Bill also caught up with Chris McGinley ’06 last fall in Charleston.

1984

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Reunion Year 1986

Bill Bagnell and wife, Liz, visited Maurice Heckscher ’60 and wife, 40

Connections

1989

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1990s

Brad Wilson is enjoying his new powered wheelchair and getting around much better. Earlier this year, Brad won first place in the Best Sports Column in the New Jersey Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest.

1982

Eric Seestedt, Jimmy Prusky, Nick Christos, David Dugery, Chris Tinari, Jamie Richter, Steve Chiles, Bill Ross, Bob Mascioli, Greg Johnson, Paul Ladner, J.D. Cassidy, Greg Buzan, and Mike Vadner gathered for their annual get-together over dinner, where they shared memories, laughs, and a good time.

1990

John C. McMeekin II, chairman of Rawle & Henderson LLP, has joined the board of directors of the Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC), one of the largest and most comprehensive public health organizations in the nation, serving the Greater Philadelphia region since 1972.

Jon Stinnett, Steve Kurtz, Dan Parish, Tim Jannetta, Bruce Walsh, Greg Bolton, John McMeekin,

Betsy Godshalk Richard and her husband, Glenn, recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. Lots of EA friends were in attendance at the celebration, including Dave Gordon ’89 and his wife, Giselle, Steve Long and his wife, Meredith, Kristin McIlhenney (who received the award for furthest distance traveled coming in all the way from Vancouver, Canada!), and Ryan and Grace Cornelius Limaye.

1991 Matt Michael was named vice president and deputy general counsel at Crane NXT, a premier industrial technology company.

He also attended a bell-ringing at the NYSE to mark the company’s separation and new stock listing.

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Reunion Year 1995

Stephanos Tsirakoglou made an impromptu visit to campus while visiting from Germany, where he is currently a professional bassbaritone opera singer. He toured the chemistry labs and then met the current Music Department Chair, Jim Erwin, who shared some sheet music from decades past and uncovered old recordings of the Blues Boys acapella group from the early 70s under the direction of John Powell ’70.

1997 Erik Louis Soliván, chief of staff for the Tulsa Housing Authority, recently gave a TEDx UTulsa Talk entitled “Give Credit Where It’s Due: Financing Housing to End Homelessness.”

1999

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Class Notes

After graduating from EA in 1992, Alanna Wren Shanahan attended the University of Pennsylvania where she played lacrosse, worked as an intern, coached, and served in several positions in the athletic department. She went on to serve as the first female director of athletics and recreation, and vice provost, at Johns Hopkins University before returning to UPenn for her “dream job” as director of athletics and recreation. Hear more about Alanna’s career journey and her Episcopal memories by scanning the QR code or searching for EA Unlocked where you access your favorite podcasts.

Caryn Rivers recently became a School Committee (Board) Member of Friends School Haverford.

Reunion Year

In spring 2023, Christa (Clarke) Bialka received the Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Award for Outstanding Teaching at Villanova University. This award is presented to a faculty member who excels in undergraduate teaching, and the recipient is determined by University students, faculty, and subcommittee observation. Dr. Bialka is an associate professor in Villanova’s Department of Education and Counseling, where she directs the Undergraduate Teacher Education Program and the Disability & Deaf Studies Program.

Dr. Bialka’s research has been published in The Journal of Education for Teaching, Teacher Education and Special Education, the Journal of Diversity in Higher Education, Disability & Society, Issues in Teacher Education, the Journal of Experiential Education, and the International Journal of Inclusive Education.

Kimberly (Lowe) McCalla was inducted into the Ohio Lacrosse Hall of Fame on June 11, 2022, for her contributions to the growth and recognition of the sport of lacrosse in the state of Ohio.

2000s 2002

Paul Creedon and Jennifer LynchCreedon were married on June 4, 2022, at Saint Thomas of Villanova Church, followed by a reception at The Union League of Philadelphia.

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After graduating in 2007, Meghan McCormick attended Georgetown University and launched her career in the Peace Corps in Guinea. Following graduate school, Meghan founded a mobile platform that helps small business owners in Africa make data-driven decisions to promote growth and increase capital. She shared more with Dr. T.J. Locke, Hon. from her office in Ghana. Hear more by scanning the QR code or searching for EA Unlocked where you access your favorite podcasts.

in attendance. The couple resides in Manhattan, where Paul is a managing director at Centerview Partners and Jennifer is an attorney at Cipriani & Werner.

2004

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Reunion Year 2006

2007 On October 15, 2022, Nell FortuneGreeley married Clevie Selengbe in a small ceremony at Nell’s parents’ house in Durham, NC.

Michelle Thomas, director of studentathlete development at St. Joseph’s University, was recently recognized for her efforts in bringing former student-athletes back to complete their undergraduate degrees at SJU. In May, Michelle was instrumental in getting two former Hawk basketball players, Naim Crenshaw and Rashid Bey, to return and graduate. SJU Head Coach Billy Lange praised her saying, “Michelle Thomas is to be applauded for her efforts in executing and aiding both Naim and Rashid.

She worked tirelessly to provide them with the support and infrastructure that was required. Michelle lives out our program’s values of Respect, Elevate, Serve.”

Wayne Ellington, Jr. and his wife, Safie, welcomed their third child, Ziya, in late 2022, joining big brothers Wayne III and Ahmad.

On August 30, 2023, Cara Dayton and her husband, Anand, welcomed their son, Roy, into the world.

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Christopher “Kiff’’ Le Vine married Hande Okutucu on July 29, 2023, in Park City, Utah. It was very much an EA family affair, with members of the Classes of 2007, 1973, and 1975 attending.

Julia (Clark) Martin shared a photo of her son, Chase, in his brand-new EA threads.

The Maines in Maine! Annie Madeira wed the love of her life, Jack Maine, in Northeast Harbor, ME, on September 9, 2023.

Wendy (Brown) Marcotte and her husband, Mike, shared news of the birth of their son, Banks, on March 17, 2023.

Britt (Steidle) Kehoe and her husband, Tommy, welcomed their third son, Mack, on May 15, 2023, joining big brothers Bode and Tate.

2008 Congratulations are in order for the Rev. Dr. Lawrence Claiborne, photographed with his wife DaeNelle and sons Logan and Linden, who received his Doctor of Ministry degree from United Lutheran Seminary in May 2022. He currently serves as an Associate Pastor at St. Paul’s Baptist Church in West Chester.

Verity Johnson and her husband, Ryan, welcomed their first child, Chase, on July 23, 2023.

Jackie (Bailey-Ross) Moriniere was recently promoted to Senior Associate Director of Employer Relations at the University of Pennsylvania.

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Bob Wassell was named one of SDRLeader.com’s Top 25 Sales Development Rep Leaders in the World for 2023. This award was given to 25 SDR leaders who are influencing SaaS pipeline generation and acceleration habits for sales leaders and sales development representatives.

Anna (Strong) Safford and her husband, Brian, welcomed son Robert “Bo” Safford to their family on August 14, 2023.

2010s 2010

Maddi (Moore) DeMund and her husband, Pat, welcomed Stevie Mae DeMund into their family on October 9, 2022.

Kristen Petrocelli married Brian Perkins on June 3, 2023, in a lovely wedding in Paoli, surrounded by family.

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2019

5

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Chris McNeal and Silicia “Lo-Lo” Lomax tied the knot at Arts Ballroom in Philadelphia on July 15, 2023.

This alumni-rich wedding featured a bridal party that included Nicole McNeal ’07, Shabri Worthey, Gianna Pilleggi, Brendan DeVoue, Ayodele Maja, Aquil Ali, and Terrell Smith.

Other alumni attendees were Richard Palazzese, Matthias “Moose” Recktenwald, Kayla Coleman, Tenaya Bailey ’15, Connor Martin, Brianna Belo, Brittany Belo, and Nantale Nsibirwa ’07.

Noah Reape married Laoise Keane at Waynesborough Country Club on April 15, 2023. Present were Jacques Tompkins ’81, Jack Keffer, Sean Doyle, John Flynn, Neil Dua, John McDermott, Terrell Smith, Alexis Reape ’16, Andrew Torre ’98, Reeva Dua ’11, Ian Reape ’20, and proud dad, David Reape ’80.

Brendan Devou married Shané Winner on July 22, 2023, in Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies.

Reunion Year

Harrison Malone will be playing his fifth and final season on the men’s soccer team at Washington College this fall. He was a part of the 2021 team that won the Centennial Conference Championship, the program’s first outright title in 57 years (1964 Mason-Dixon Conference Champions) and qualified for the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 48 seasons (1973), reaching the Round of 16. Malone will be serving as the team’s captain this season.

2020s 2022

Correction from Spring 2023 Connections: Tristan Whitaker (son of Brandon ’92 and Rory Schusler Whitaker ’92), Andrew McMeekin (son of Andrew ’92 and Heather Flick McMeekin ’92), Charlie Maier (son of Rob, Hon. and Jen Maier, Hon.), and Jake Shaud (son of Carolyn Graham Shaud ’89) celebrated together following Commencement in the spring of 2023.

Honorary

2015

Jake Gavin and his wife, Blair, welcomed their first child, Murphy, on June 17, 2023.

Gianna Smith and her husband, Nick Scott, welcomed little Cleodora “Cleo” to their family on July 16, 2022.

2013

2016

Tara (O’Prey) Toner and her husband, Topher, welcomed their son, Rory, on May 30, 2023.

of Women’s Soccer Head Coach at Eastern University. She looks forward to coaching goalkeeper Faith Leake ’23, who joined the Eagles in fall 2023.

Class Notes

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2014

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2009

After playing professional soccer for S.S. Lazio in Rome, Jess Shanahan returned to the area to take on the role

Josephine Konopka ’18, Bruce Konopka, James Konopka ’14, Molly Konopka, Brian Young ’08, Will Purtill ’17, and Rob Maier had fun celebrating the reopening of the University of Pennsylvania Boathouse.

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In Memoriam James M. Auch, Jr., Hon. Jim Auch, 85, an icon of EA’s athletic legacy, passed away on May 26, 2023. His 21-season tenure as head football coach marked a triumphant era, securing 109 victories and three consecutive Inter-Ac championships (1981-83), resurrecting a decades-old tradition of excellence. Beyond his gridiron success, Jim’s influence extended into the classroom, where he was a devoted math teacher and advisor, shaping both talent and character. Jim’s own athletic journey began at Malvern Prep and West Chester University, where he earned Hall of Fame honors. He remained a beacon of sportsmanship and mentorship for players and coaches alike. In a lifelong partnership with Penelope M. Auch, another esteemed EA educator, their union spanned more than 60 years.

Jim is survived by sons James M. Auch III, ‘82 (Christina) and Jeffrey W. Auch ‘84 (George Russell), two granddaughters, Casey V. Auch and Emma C. Auch, as well as sister Margaret Watson, and sisters-in-law Kim Auch and Anna Auch.

Marjorie Clarke Coxe Marjorie “Jerry” Clarke Cox, 93, passed away on April 16, 2023. She graduated from Lancaster Country Day School in 1947 and earned her B.A. from Smith College in 1951. Her career began in New York City, with four years in fashion and publishing before her 1955 marriage. Jerry dedicated herself to Episcopal, serving on the Board of Trustees from 1976 to 1982 while her sons, Hugh ’77 and Ted ’81, attended and then spent 16 years at Bryn Mawr College, retiring in 1995. She was an active docent at the Barnes Foundation for 24 years, taking “emerita” status in 2019, and a devoted member of St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church. Jerry was also part of various clubs and societies. She is survived by children Julie C. Freund (Daniel), Hugh M. Coxe ’77 (Colleen), and Theodore S. (“Ted”) Coxe, Jr. ’81 (Polly), along with seven grandchildren and one great-grandson. She was preceded in death by her daughter Louise C. “Lucy” Ballantyne and sister Julianne “Julie” Clarke.

Christopher W. Davenport Christopher Davenport, 84, passed away on May 5, 2023. Fondly remembered as a teacher in Episcopal’s Middle School from 1960-1965 when he was just out of college, he was the inaugural swimming instructor when the pool was built at the Merion campus. Educated at the old Ballard School on Lime Kiln Lane in Louisville, he went to The Taft School in Watertown, Connecticut, for Upper School and graduated from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1960. In 1966, he earned an M.A. from Yale. In a career that spanned 35 years, Chris taught at The Episcopal Academy, the New Canaan Country School in Connecticut, and St. Edward’s School in Vero Beach, Florida. In 1994, Chris moved back to Louisville. He is survived by his brother John (Batya Miller) of New York, his sister Juliet of Louisville, and two nieces, Emily Gilbert and Sarah Miller-Davenport.

Anthony P. Jannetta Surrounded by family and loved ones, Anthony Peter “Tony” Jannetta passed peacefully on Saturday, July 15, 2023. He was a trusted mentor to numerous entrepreneurs and business leaders, embodying unwavering respect for everyone he encountered. Engaged in the community, Tony was a Board member of the Academy of Vocal Arts, an active member of Merion Cricket Club and Merion Golf Club, and a 1996 Alumni Award of Merit recipient from the University of Pennsylvania. Tony served as an Episcopal Academy Trustee from 1981-1987. Tony and his beloved wife, Sally, deeply valued education, ensuring their children’s exceptional education at EA and helped establish the Jannetta Family Scholarship Fund. In addition to his beloved wife, Sally, of nearly 60 years, Tony is survived by his children Stephen ’82 (Nadia), Gregory ’84 (Leslie), and Timothy ’86, along with his adored grandchildren, including Andrew ’14 and Casey ’26.

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Class Notes

Roberta “Bobbie” Morrison, 92, passed away on January 24, 2023. After graduating from West Chester University and earning a master’s degree from Temple University, she taught at Episcopal from 1977 to 1994 and in the local community for nearly four decades. A “master teacher,” she embodied the spirit of Episcopal, nurturing young minds with self-confidence and esteem for academic and personal success. Beyond the classroom, she contributed as a Girl Scout leader, volunteered at St. Margaret’s Church of Narberth, and tutored children. Bobbie was a gentle, accessible, and caring figure who touched the lives of many. Her legacy as a “teacher’s teacher” and a friend to all endures. She was the cherished wife of the late Roderick A. Morrison, with whom she shared 58 years of marriage. Surviving her are son Paul Morrison (Veronica), former daughterin-law Robin, and her beloved grandchildren: Amber, Taylor, Anthony, Christian, and Paul.

Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.

Roberta H. Morrison, Hon.

Jo-Ann Mary Stigliano, Hon. Jo-Ann Mary Stigliano, 71, passed away on August 16, 2023. A Hartford, Connecticut, native, she attended Our Lady of Sorrows School and later The Hartt School of Music.

She graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Music Education, earning accolades such as “Music Educator of the Year Award” and the “Presser Award of Excellence in Musicianship.” Specializing in violin, music theory, and education, she became a beloved music teacher. Jo-Ann’s innovative teaching approach and infectious joy inspired countless students. For more than 15 years, she served as Director of Lower School Music at Episcopal Academy and transformed the program, impacting more than 1,500 students with her unique blend of solfège and fun. Jo-Ann is survived by her son, Gregory, daughter-in-law Hadley, granddaughters Emma and Lucy Stigliano, and siblings Tom Stigliano, Jim Stigliano, John Stigliano, and Marybeth Negri. She is predeceased by her parents, Daniel and Emma Stigliano.

James L. Stinnett, M.D. James Stinnett, 84, passed away on April 6, 2023. An Episcopal Academy Trustee from 1981-1999 and an Emeritus Trustee until his recent passing, Dr. Stinnett was an esteemed figure. Graduating from Princeton University in 1960 and earning his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, he served in the U.S. Army, attaining the rank of Captain and the Distinguished Service Award. In 1972, he joined the University of Pennsylvania faculty as a psychiatry professor, later becoming director of consultation and liaison psychiatry. Highly respected for his wisdom and compassion, Dr. Stinnett held various leadership roles, leaving an indelible mark on Penn Medicine and a lasting impact on countless colleagues and generations of medical professionals. He is survived by his wife, Carol Anderson Stinnett, sons Jonathan Stinnett ’86 (Kelly), David Stinnett ’87 (Teresa), Nathaniel Stinnett ’93 (Melanie), stepdaughter Rachel Forrest (James), grandchildren Avalon, James, Skye, Aaron, Olivia, and sisters Karen Gelband and Savannah Lewis.

Suzanne W. Zeleznik, Hon. Suzanne Zeleznik, 76, passed away on January 22, 2023. A New York native, she ventured to Michigan for college at Oakland University. Her path took her even further when she studied abroad in France, profoundly shaping her career. She met her future husband, David, at Oakland, and they wed in 1969. Suzanne embarked on a teaching journey, specializing in French and later Spanish. She earned master’s degrees in both languages from Villanova University and Middlebury College. For 31 years, Suzanne shared her passion for languages at Episcopal Academy, retiring in 2012. Devoted to her family, she’ll be remembered for her zest, resilience against lupus and COVID, her love for extended family, joy in her children and grandchildren, and her infectious smile. She leaves behind her cherished husband, Dr. David Smith; loving daughters, Katherine Smith ’98 (Robert Kaufman) and Lisa Smith ’01 (Alan Levy); and beloved grandchildren: Samuel and Eliza Kaufman, and Brandon and Helena Levy.

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In Memoriam Robert Ridgway Bishop ’58 Bob Bishop, 82, passed away on May 4, 2023. A beloved figure at The Episcopal Academy, he dedicated his life to education, leaving an indelible mark on the school community. For an impressive 35 years, he served as a teacher of English, administrator, coach, advisor, head of Upper School, and academic dean. His journey with EA began in the second grade, and he credits his 3rd grade teacher, Mr. Trout, for setting him on a path to academic success.

Throughout his Upper School years, Bob actively participated in Junto, the Scholium, and the Glee Club, showcasing his well-rounded nature. He was also an athlete, engaging in soccer, squash, and tennis. His Tabula page encapsulates his character: “Bob has always been a model of quiet efficiency…His sincere dedication to school and class earned him respect and admiration. He always had a friendly smile and a pleasant greeting to make anyone feel at ease with him.”

After graduating from EA in 1958, Bob pursued his passion for English at Princeton, fostering lifelong friendships while excelling in squash and soccer. Later, he earned a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Summers were dedicated to Camp Kieve in Nobleboro, Maine, where he was a camper, counselor, assistant director, and trustee.

Bob’s transformative moment occurred during his time as a resident advisor at the University of Pennsylvania, where he engaged in a life-changing conversation with Professor Paul Mishkin. This led him to join the Peace Corps in Tanzania, where he met his future wife, Sally, from Belfast, Northern Ireland.

In 1971, the family returned to the U.S. for graduate work at the Harvard School of Education. Armed with a master’s degree in teaching, Bob received an invitation from Jim Quinn, then head of school at Episcopal, to join the faculty in 1972. His journey at EA included teaching in the Middle School, spearheading the Devon Campus for its first six years, serving as head of Upper School, acting head of school, and academic dean. He then became a dedicated member of the Upper School English Department until his retirement in 2010.

Bob will always be remembered by his students, colleagues, faculty, and staff for his unwavering passion for teaching literature, his steadfast leadership, and his unfailingly kind and thoughtful demeanor. He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife of 55 years, Sally, his sons Stephen ’89 (Jeannine), Sean ’92, and Benjamin ’94 (Linden), his cherished four grandchildren (John ‘22, Margot, Alice, and Violet), and three siblings, Bailey Bishop ’60, Marjorie Brown, and Elaine Politis.

Bob’s legacy at The Episcopal Academy will forever resonate in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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Connections

1961 Mark T. Longley-Cook June 27, 2023

James M. Auch, Jr. May 26, 2023

1948 Henry Chapman July 1, 2023

1962 Harrison B. Wetherill, Jr. October 17, 2023

Celia W. Creskoff November 10, 2023

1948 Frederick L. Jones Jr. April 23, 2023

1963 Thomas P. Bispham July 29, 2023

Christopher W. Davenport May 5, 2023

1950 Harold P. Starr August 23, 2023

1963 Christopher W. Raker July 5, 2023

Andrew C. Holmes July 1, 2023

1953 E. C. Kirk Hall September 13, 2023

1966 E. Reeves Callaway, III July 11, 2023

Carol M. Pendergrass November 8, 2023

1953 Ralph H. Hood August 11, 2023

1966 Maynard W. Poole, IV September 2, 2023

Joan T. Robinette March 29, 2023

1955 Walter W. Buckley, Jr. October 30, 2023

1968 Medford J. Brown, III September 16, 2023

Edith H. Rowland September 6, 2023

1957 Joseph E. Colen, Jr. July 16, 2023

1969 J. Criswell Davis October 3, 2022

Jo-Ann M. Stigliano August 16, 2023

1957 John D. Perry, Jr. May 15, 2020

1971 Winfield A. Foreman July 6, 2023

1958 Robert R. Bishop May 3, 2023

1972 Thomas C. Mascioli October 27, 2023

1958 Howard B. Chadwick, Jr. January 13, 2022

1974 Tim C. Gardner February 13, 2023

1958 Joseph J. Klumpp, Jr. May 10, 2023

1974 Peter E. Kane October 23, 2023

1958 Hunter B. McMullin November 9, 2023

1978 William L. Van Alen, III January 29, 2023

1958 Heatly D. Sebring August 20, 2023

2021 Hugh T. Douglas September 4, 2023

Class Notes

1947 Richard A. Henderson October 2, 2023

Send us your news! Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.

Honorary Alumni & Former Faculty

Alumni

This list represents notifications that The Episcopal Academy received through mid-November 2023.

Winter 2024

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From the

Archives Favorite Subject? RECESS!

Whether your favorite activity was hopscotch, gliding across monkey bars, or swinging as high as the sky, our time outdoors helped to shape who we are today. Research shows that recess can help not only students’ physical health, but also improve their social skills and ability to learn.

Generations of EA students bruised knees and forged friendships across our many campus locations. In honor of our new playground opening, we visited the archives to search for some of EA’s best recess memories.

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Connections

The Episcopal Academy 1785 Bishop White Drive Newtown Square, PA 19073-1300 www.episcopalacademy.org ADDRESS SERVICE R EQUES T ED

SAVE THE DATE

Alumni Weekend: May 3-4, 2024 We invite all alumni to join us this spring.

We can’t wait to celebrate special reunions for classes ending in 4 and 9!