Class Notes
’43 REUNION
Ben Brewster benbbrew@comcast.net
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages. ’48 REUNION
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
by Lieutenant Governor William Dummer at South Byfield in the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
George McGregor classnotes@govsacademy.org
On June 2, 1951, Volume XXXVIII Number 5 of the Archon magazine was issued. There were 11 pages published by the students, no colors, and 9 pictures of individual students. The magazine cover was a drawing of the Little Red Schoolhouse. Five of the 11 pages consisted of advertisements from local merchants. As the saying goes, “you’ve come a long way baby!” The Fall 2022 issue of the Archon magazine is in bold, brilliant color. The magazine cover is a photo of Erika Mitkus, the inaugural Director of the Bass Institute at the Alfond Coastal Research Center. There are 70 pages, full of color pictures too numerous to count. As a side note of no consequence, there seems now to pretty much be a page for every one of our years since commencement. The Archon alumni magazine will now be renamed the Governor’s alumni magazine. Webster’s Dictionary 1946, 5th edition defines archon as a ruler or presiding officer—which seems an odd choice years ago for the name of the Academy’s magazine. Time for this change, to say nothing of other changes that have taken place over the last 70 years at the boys’ school founded 260 years ago
Bob Hopkins: Not having responded for 71 years I thought I would catch G(D)A up on my activities. Graduated from UVA with a bachelors and master degrees in Geology and a PhD from Cornell. Hired to work in geologic research by Humble/Exxon/ Esso in Houston. My specialty was image interpretation using satellite imagery, radar and side scan sonar, and ground geophysics. I worked at mainly problem solving in Texas, California, Canada, England, Norway, Australia and Saudi Arabia. I was active in petroleum geology organizations and a member of the NASA Space Applications Advisory Committee. I retired after 30 years and then did volunteer charity work with Interfaith Ministries Food for Seniors, Houston Museum of Natural Science science boxes for Title three schools, Rebuilding Together Houston, and an active member in civic affairs in Bellaire, Texas. I have now retired again and help around my daughter’s small ranch in the Texas Hill Country. Thanks George, always nice to read your comments.
’53 REUNION
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
’55
George Gardner george.gardner3@gmail.com
Phil Angell wrote that his wife Rosalie (Rosie) passed away 3/17/22. Sold his NH condo in early July and is now full-time in Venice, FL. Alan Keith reported that he is still in good health and keeping active on his little farm here on Martha’s Vineyard. Made a 3-week
trip to South Africa in October to look for wildlife which was very successful. My only future travel will be to Senegal to visit my oldest daughter and son-in-law who run an NGO based on the study of manatees and turtles (African Aquatic Conservation Fund); my son-in-law recently won the Tusk Award, an honor bestowed by Prince William for which he and my daughter went to London for the presentation and to spend a day at Kensington Palace with William and Kate. Lots of fun. Peter Scott wrote that he developed a back problem last spring. Successful surgery in September, but bad news, only two rounds of golf in 2022. Still busy with volunteer work (Residents’ Council, county veterans board, Continuum of Care Committee). Scheduled trip in May 23—cruise around the British Isles with Smithsonian and week’s hike on Amalfi Coast of Italy. Looking forward to our next in-person reunion. Fred Young’s grandson, Nate Young, received his Master’s Degree in civil engineering (with high honors) from the University of Delaware, and secured the job of his choice. Granddaughter Anna Young is really enjoying her 2nd year at Savannah School of Arts and Design (already receiving a design competition award). Judy and I are actively pursuing our boating, gardening, music and other interests here on Eastern Point. I do have concerns about WOKE ideology that, from the School’s publications, seems to have found its way into the Administration’s agenda. We all did just fine without such formalized indoctrination!
’57 Lyman Cousens
Nice response to my plea for news from my classmates, most of whom are still alive and well. Doris and I spent a delightful evening last fall hosting Jeff and Sandy Fitts for a dutch treat dinner at a gourmet Concord restaurant. Jeff continues to insist he finished #53 academically out of 52 in our class. Bucky Starbuck made the same claim and I suspect at least 10 more of us were “in the running.” Mr. Eames was not available for comment.
Congratulations to John Bissell of the famous Dubuque Bissells
on his well-attended personal art show in December. John donates the proceeds from his show to the Dubuque Art Museum every year. AND, his work is now on display at Governor’s Academy! I believe Gene and Kay Bouley share the “1957 Most Prolific Family Award” with 18 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and 4 grandchildren marriages in 2023. They have moved to Altoona, Florida for the winter months, returning in the spring to Woodstock, NH Not being one to slow down (much), Gene is the chair of the Florida Trails Highland Chapter, which maintains 56 miles of hiking trails. In the competition for grandchildren, Skip and Lynda Dickerson have nine between them with three gainfully, and successfully, employed and a marriage on the horizon. The two youngest are in high school so the next step appears to becoming great grandparents. No rush Skip, not that you will be involved in the decision anyway. Speaking (or writing) about great grandchildren, Grant Lyman Cousens visited New Hampshire for a month over the holidays. Maybe it’s just me, but this was a VERY special experience for his great grand dad! President of our esteemed class is Peter Cadigan of Eugene, Oregon fly fishing fame. Well, Peter works in a fly-fishing shop two days a week so that qualifies him for fame in my book. Peter and Debbie are in good health and enjoying their six grandkids. Finally, all respondents said they are looking forward to our 70th Reunion coming up shortly in June, 2027. Certified optimists!
CLASS NOTES 47 Spring 2023
’51
Grant Lyman Cousens with his great-grandpa Lyman Cousens ’57
’58 REUNION
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
’59 Randy Light crlight23@gmail.com
Brian Marsh reported in from England and said hello.
Ferg Jansen, after confronting some medical issues, has been “working to get [his] strength back to outpace [Fred] Huntress!”
Steve Volpone sent in “A Little Poem for Seniors.” It is a tad long for these class notes. I did forward it to our classmates who are on the class email list. The bottom line of the poem, as I view it since we are now members of the Old Guard: Live it up! Steve also wrote in: “Elizabeth and I are enjoying the rural life of southern New Hampshire. We are fortunate to live in an area [Hampton Falls] surrounded by several protected conservation lands. We manage to get in daily walks even in cold weather which can be challenging at times. It doesn’t seem to bother Elizabeth as much as me. When the weather is bad, I substitute the stationary bike and burn my calories that way.
“Whenever the subject of downsizing arises, we have resisted any change. We are both blessed with good health and can’t conceive of a better alternative. To keep sharp and exercise the brain, there is both Spelling Bee and the crossword puzzle in the New York Times to present a daily challenge. My oldest grandson [Stephen] recently became employed by the National Weather Service after earning his Master’s Degree in Meteorology. He is working out of Gray, Maine and keeps me abreast of weather happenings in seacoast NH. Oldest granddaughter [Delaney] just blessed me with my first great-grandson. My two teenage granddaughters [Katie and Allie] live only 20 minutes away. They surprise me every time they visit at how fast they are maturing into beautiful young women. They start high school this fall. They are
tops in their class scholastically and have shown an aptitude for the sciences. Molly is going for her Master’s degree in Education and is scheduled to graduate sometime this summer.” Steve also expressed his hope for a good turnout at our 65th reunion in 2024.
Bob Pouch commented on the loss of our classmate Roy Nash and the fact that Bob and I and our wives had a number of enjoyable visits over the years with Roy and his wife, Erna, before Roy’s passing. Bob further mentioned that unfortunately his “property on Little Hickory Island in Bonita Springs, Florida was overrun by hurricane ‘IAN.’ The damage was extensive. . . . [His] building survived. But the property damage was very extensive . . . [and] will be under renovation for about a year.”
Peter Sherin wrote in: “After living at 122 Beacon Street since 1976, I downsized and moved up one block (ironically, the company said the shortest but most challenging move for them). Covid and supply chain challenges made it take two years for me to move myself in. Another major event in my life was . . . serendipitously connecting on the internet with a woman I had met on a ship in 1962 going to Europe with my college roommate whom I hadn’t seen or spoken to since. Long story short, an 80-year-old pivot has very happily happened the past year with a new home and a special relationship.”
Walt Cannon continues restoring airplanes. He recently finished “the restoration of another 1946 Piper Cub airplane.” In addition, he did “some beautiful hikes in the Alps” during a visit to his wife’s family in Switzerland and looks forward to skiing during the winter of 2023 in the Sierras. Walt voiced his alarm, though, that his “grand kids are beginning to go to college.” Need I mention that there are a number of us whose grandchildren are now out of college?
restored car. Sure better than my ’65 Mustang! Kudos to Chris! And Chris 82 is young!! Just finished total restoration. At 82, I think that may be the last one, but one never knows. We had the whole family here in Vero Beach for Thanksgiving. Son Chris and wife Hanna from Australia and daughter Liz with husband Mike and their daughter Lauren. First time in 5 years. Jill is busy with her watercolor painting and selling a few. Hard to believe GDA was that many years ago!!! Happy New Year to all.
John Elwell johnelwell@verizon.net
Chris Prewitt is an expert in antique car restoration. Beautifully
Once again, our Don Alexander keeps us up to date with his many activities and accomplishments. You are an inspiration, Don! Near the end of November Barbara and I moved into our new downsized home in Hallowell, Maine—2 bedrooms, 2 baths, excellent diningliving area, full basement to store stuff, and a deck overlooking the Kennebec River Valley. The development is on the site of the former girls’ reform school, which operated until 1970 as a boarding school for teenage girls who got in trouble. Sort of brings back memories of boarding school in the ’50s and ’60s. Part of the site was later a prerelease facility for men from the Maine State Prison, and now some residential buildings are dorms for the University of Maine at Augusta. Haven’t yet been invited to any weekend dorm parties, don’t know if they still have them. For professional activity, this past year I completed updates to my books Maine Appellate Practice and the Maine Jury Instruction Manual. I have also been involved in a couple of mediations, and I continue as a member of the commission that oversees legal assistance to indigent criminal defendants and parents in state-initiated child protective cases. In 2022, Barbara was
appointed to the Board of Trustees of the University of Maine System. She also continues her consulting work assisting consumer groups advocating for low income and fixed income ratepayers in utility rate-setting proceedings. A particular focus of her work is opposing efforts by corporate alternative energy speculators to force low income and fixed income ratepayers to guarantee their profits and subsidize their work. We continue to visit and be visited by our son in Maine and our daughter in Montana and their spouses and children, and we continue in relatively good health. Thanks for your work keeping our class connected and informed. Much appreciated.
Great to hear from Nate Greene. Glad to hear that his medical issue seems to be improving. Go Nate! Hospital adventures. Joined the A-Fib club and enjoyed a small stroke. All viruses driven. Wonderful children and grandchildren all around. My oldest grandchild is 30, youngest is one. My brother Tim ’50, is still ok. Heard from Nichols’ oldest who is now 61! My wife Kate is still the Awesomest. Our immigrant family is doing well, expecting asylum finally this month. A special thanks to Nate and Kate for their efforts with the immigrant family
Peter Stonebraker always shares important and interesting news. And congratulations to Peter and Denise. If you've ever met Denise, you will know that Peter is a lucky man again! Denise and I wish you and family members a very happy Holiday Season and the best for the New Year. This time of year is a very good opportunity to count our blessings—including food, shelter, and warmth. And, of course, the ability to communicate freely with
CLASS NOTES 48 Governor’s
’60
Left: Chris Prewitt ’60 and his restored antique car · Right: Peter Stonebraker ’60 and his fiancée, Denise, in front of the Daniel Popper statue at Morton Arboretum
family, colleagues, associates, and friends. And—we have exciting news. Denise and I have decided to become engaged. No further details yet (e.g., no marriage date or plans,) but we have agreed to a committed relationship. Realistically, that means that we plan to spend some five days per week together—as we currently do—with some of that in Lisle and some in Lake Forest, depending on the events on our calendars. Of course, our together time will include “vacations” and travels, such as our upcoming trip to Florida for some 2 months. We have spoken of this for some time but formalized the engagement during a trip to Morton Arboretum (one of our favorite parks in the area—note photo with the Daniel Popper statue in the background) on Friday, 12-23, a brutally cold day here in Chicago. Again, our best to all.
I was excited to receive a wonderful update and remembrances from John Scruby THANKS MUCH John for sharing your special memories and an update on current conditions in Britain. Dear John, Thank you for your messages—it’s good to keep in touch over the miles and years. I have many happy winter memories of my time at GDA during 1959/1960 as an ESU senior year student; riding snow bowls out of the top floor windows of Ingraham House on ramps built out of snow (poor Mr. Mercer was horrified!); skating on the frozen pond (now gone!) in front of the house; a rather disastrous school ski trip to New Hampshire (I didn’t admit to never having been on skis before!). But one winter experience stands out. Just before Christmas ’59, I was the guest of a fellow student’s family over the holiday near Boston. One evening we joined a group of people singing carols in a snow-covered square in the old part of Boston while local residents brought us mince pies and hot drinks. An “old world” experience in the New World.
This year, as well as enjoying Christmas with some children and grandchildren living nearby, thanks to modern technology, my wife Jackie and I have been able, by video links, to join with other family members spread worldwide—Middle East, Bangladesh,
Australia. The Aussies were on the beach on Christmas day! No chance here! In the UK this past year, we have lost our Queen; a new King has acceded to the throne; we have had three Prime Ministers; we have had a financial crisis and 11% inflation; our health system is nearly overwhelmed by Covid plus flu; we have strikes on our railways, postal system, nursing service, ambulance service, parts of the civil service...no, nothing much has happened and we all jog merrily along. Stiff upper lip and all that!
(Please don’t mention H & M. Ugh!)
A few years ago, Jackie and I visited GDA (sorry, GA. Old habits die hard.) and we were welcomed with great kindness and generosity. One strange thing.... having taken the sadly truncated train service from Boston to Newburyport (Parker River bridge gone!), we hired a cab to take us to GDA. It was a London Black Cab! I wish all my old classmates and GDA a happy and prosperous 2023. And we wish the same to you John!
Greetings John Silver. Glad to hear that Ian did not significantly impact your homes. Sure can be challenging times! The day before Ian landed, Lee and I picked up daughter Heather, our granddaughter and the “grandpuppy” and evacuated first to a hotel near the airport and from there to Tampa when that lost power. We were in Tampa for over two weeks. We are still in hurricane recovery mode, but the day-to-day activities are mostly back to normal. The condo came within 2” of being flooded and our daughter’s house stayed dry, so we were doubly blessed. Our condo’s carports have mostly disappeared; storage units, roofs and soffits suffered some damage. Heather’s lanai disappeared by way of going over the roof and leaving a bit of damage, and the garage door wound up partly outside. Some fixes have been made, with more work waiting for overworked contractors. But there have been instances of amazing recovery and cleanup all over the region. A group of some 20 church volunteers from the east coast cleaned up Heather’s yard, cut trees, and removed lanai remnants, then moved on to other help at other houses. There are still blue roofs all over and the sound of installing new roofs is
nearly constant. Heather has been approved for a new approach to treating her CRPS which we hope will lead to significant lifestyle improvements for her. Granddaughter Robin has been invited to join the Honors Society at Florida Gulf Coast University where she is majoring in English. Lee stays involved with leading a study group at Church and with PEO. I am enjoying retirement from my architectural practice. Hope all y’all are weathering the winter ok—the weather news has been extreme lately.
Rick Benner sent me the following, and then he called me, and we had a good conversation. I haven’t received his “news clips” yet, but when I do, I will send them to you all. One week ago, I moved into a new home -Morningside of Charlottesville (Virginia) and I have several personal “news clips.” Well…my phone just rang, I answered and all of a sudden (in a good way) I’m busy until late in the day. But The Governors Academy will not slip by! Tell me your phone number again pls. And for all…my phone number is 508 641-5955.
The Elwells are still active with the Farm. The drought this summer was not good at all! I lost 80% or more of the 1000 Christmas tree seedlings I planted in the spring and my 3000 strawberry plants are not doing well at all. May not have any strawberries to sell in June. BUT that is farming. Carol and I went on another MVPA convoy this summer with 30 other military rigs touring the National Parks of the NW through Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. Went a total of 7400 miles round trip in 3 weeks. Almost had a heart attack when I got my $3000 diesel fuel bill. Our CYO Christmas tree season sold out in just two days. Wish I had planted hundreds more 10 years ago. Will plant 3000 strawberry plants and 900 Christmas tree seedlings this coming spring. It takes 8 to 12 years to grow Christmas trees which proves I am an optimist at my age! Family is well and we are going to be grandparents again in May… will be number 10. We are active in several organizations (Wheelwright Science School and ACES) in the Newburyport area. Hope we can get some snowmobiling this winter. Also, hope you all will come some-
time soon for a visit. The porch light is always on for you! In the meantime, keep safe! John Elwell
’63 REUNION
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
’64
Larry Henchey lhenchey@verizon.net
We caught up with a few classmates during Reunion 2022 in Byfield. Fittingly, our biggest turnout of the weekend was for the induction of our late classmate, Jay Cooke, into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Jay played an instrumental role in transforming the Academy’s girls’ athletic programs with his generosity. John Heald, John Mercer, Charlie Parker, Don Balser, Terry Golden, Larry Henchey, Paul Freedberg, and Jeff Karelis were among the attendees. The weekend also afforded a chance to reconnect with other Alumni from our era, including the reunion classes of 1962 and 1967.
It’s a good time to be looking forward to our own 60th reunion in early June 2024! I have already heard that Tom Maier is hoping to take a break from his Peninsula Sports Camps and be able to entice Bryan Hamric to make the trip east. In addition to his successful years as a basketball coach (730 wins, 4 titles), Tom has been running camps throughout Southern California for over 45 years. Dick Tuxbury, our PGA professional, reports that after a year away from golf due to a ruptured quad, he got back on the course in the spring. It is not much of a stretch to think that golf might be part of our 60th activities. Rob Sherman is now splitting his time seasonally, the warm months in south coast Massachusetts and the winter in Charleston, South Carolina. We now have a number of classmates who are doing the split-residence thing.
Finally, some notes about another posthumous award for a classmate. John Everett was recognized by his Dartmouth Class of 1968 with a Give A Rouse Award for
CLASS NOTES 49 Spring 2023
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Beers, Buddies, & Breakout Stars
“I’m going to Vietnam, and I’m bringing them beer!” shouts actor Zac Efron in the 2022 American biographical war comedy-drama The Greatest Beer Run Ever
The movie follows the true story of John “Chickie” Donahue, a former Marine who sneaks into the Vietnam War to deliver beer to his active-duty friends—including Sergeant Rick Duggan, a role played by Jake Picking ’10.
In the movie, Chickie (played by Efron) seeks out Duggan, who allows Chickie to join his squad on the battlefield. The film also stars Russell Crowe as photographer Arthur Coates, and Bill Murray as the cynical bar owner dubbed “The Colonel.”
Called “an impossible journey, all in the name of friendship,” The Greatest Beer Run Ever was directed and co-written by Peter Farrelly. It premiered September 30, 2022, and is currently streaming on Apple TV+.
Picking’s other recent roles include Lt. Brigham “Harvard”
Lennox in Top Gun: Maverick, and young Gerald Ford in The First Lady.
distinguished service to one or more communities, professions or organizations. As noted in his citation, John went from perhaps “the first recipient of ‘double secret probation’ at Dartmouth” to service as a Navy officer in Vietnam, and as an attorney with the State of Maine and Federal Social Security Administration. After retirement, he went on to become a workhorse of service to the Upper Valley in New Hampshire, his college class and Dartmouth, and volunteer at the information booth at the Green in Hanover. He provided an oral history of his Vietnam service and its impact to the Dartmouth Vietnam Project, where he candidly discussed aspects of his life, including early PTSD and alcoholism, which led to his lifelong passion for the outdoors. John attempted the Appalachian Trail twice before conceding to balky knees. He passed away on October 4, 2016 while hiking the Camino de Santiago in Spain.
’67
Ben Beach benhbeach@gmail.com
Last September, Bob Bass became the first member of our class to have a grandchild attend our alma mater. Why did she make that choice? “It was pretty simple: school size and academic rigor and support,” Bob said. “Elliot really likes the school!” A resident of Woodside, California, she entered as a freshman.
In September 1970, the late soccer legend Pelé traveled to Washington, D.C., with his team, Santos, to play an exhibition game against the Washington Darts. Pelé’s squad practiced at American University, where Wil Poon and Jeff Wood were seniors. Jeff, captain of AU’s team, recalled, “Pelé and team were nice enough to scrimmage with us mere mortals. I will never forget Pelé juggling the ball on his knees and thighs for half the field, not once allowing the ball to touch the ground. Then, he flipped the ball into mid-air and took a side-winding rocket shot from midfield, hitting the goal’s crossbar. We all went to the Santos game with complimentary seats. A lifetime memory of some of the Glory Days.
RIP, Pelé. One of the nicest people I have ever met. Every time I hear thunder from now on, I’ll think of your foot connecting to the ball.’”
Last October, after decades in Austin, Ted Dix and his wife Mary Ellen moved to Wilmette, Illinois, the area where they met. “We never really felt like Texans and have always loved this area,” the retired professor explained. The move boosted the class’s Midwestern population by 50 percent. (Others are Don Gay in Michigan and Ray Huard in Illinois.)
Speaking of professors, Alan Rothfeld emailed from southern California: “Tried to retire twice but finally gave up. Since I converted from practice to teaching, it’s just too hard to quit… Our seven grandchildren, ages 1 to 12 years, take up lots of time, but our goal for this year is to complete the next phase of traveling around the U.S. on Blue Highways (local roads—no freeways allowed). You have to get used to ‘Trump’ on barns and billboards and to not-so-great motels, but it is a fascinating country. The biggest gap left on the highway map I got in 1966 (and which hung on my GDA wall junior and senior years) is Dallas-Tulsa-MemphisVicksburg, which we will close this summer, the Lord and flights from LAX willing.”
“Still happily in harness,” Fred Burchsted reported from the North Shore. “Love my work and my colleagues. Retirement travel plans: Plum Island from time to time. Pygmy goats for the backyard?”
Bill Barnes wrote that 2022 “was a fairly quiet year for me, but I hope to change that with some activities in ’23. I’ll be going to California for a time or two to visit with my daughter and family, and I’m planning some short sailing trips for the year. Other than that, I’m just disappointed in the Patriots.”
Another valuable member of our Pony football team, Mick Doolittle, has some Upstate New York roots, pulling for the Buffalo Bills to make the Superbowl. He wrote: “I have finished my service as chairman of the board of three Presbyterian continuing care retirement communities in the DC Metro Area.”
CLASS NOTES
50 Governor’s
The Fibrolamellar Cancer Foundation, created a number of years ago by Marna and Chuck Davis, continues to make progress. In 2022, for the first time, FCF invited patients to one of its research conferences. “It was an amazing experience for all,” Chuck said, “and we plan to continue to include them. Plus, we received a surprise $4 million donation from a friend, which will allow us to give out more research grants.” In September, Chuck will be in Stowe, Vermont, for the ninth annual FLC family gathering.
Melanie and Joe Schwarzer are moving from Chapel Hill to Greenville, NC. “We will be nearer to each of our museums and close enough to Raleigh. Less traffic and more room. Saw it one day and bought it the next. It will be our 50th move and yes, each one has been and is a pain, although the moves overseas, which account for almost half of them, were a lot easier. We continue to be busy with the museums. Our Hatteras museum will be closed to the public while we do a complete exhibition renovation, thanks to $5.2 million in grants. We hope that construction will be completed by mid-summer.”
From the Granite State, Andy Creed noted: “Three years ago I broke my right fibula. Last August I broke the left in exactly the same place. Symmetry is all.”
Last fall, Gene Romero visited Phil Congdon in Colorado. “Phil is mighty tough, getting around AND MOUNTAIN CLIMBING on his crutches,” Gene reported. Here’s Phil’s account of Gene’s trip: “Gene came for a visit and to see some
of Colorado, so I got him high: the highest incorporated city in the U.S., the highest continuous road in the U.S., and the highest road in the U.S. He also got to stand on the Continental Divide and on the summit of a 14’er (not the highest). When not with Gene, I was climbing peaklets (under 10,000 feet).”
Bill Alfond celebrated the holiday season with his family at Sugarloaf Maine, where he skied with one of his sons and a grandson. In January, Bill was in Paris to celebrate his oldest granddaughter Yael’s Bat Mitzvah.
From Windsor, Connecticut, recently retired Harper Follansbee wrote: “Since I have defined myself as a teacher and a tutor for over 40 years, retiring has not been easy. Getting rid of all of those books I brought with me to our condominium is certainly more easily remedied than varying my repertoire at age 73. I’ll just have to persevere.”
In March, after bouncing back from Covid, Mary and Sid Bird participated in a five-day bicycle tour in Florida. In July they will be in Pittsburgh for the National Senior Games, which they qualified for last summer. Mary will be competing in biking, Sid in racquetball.
As he made his way through another New Jersey winter, Mac Barnes had something to look forward to: “Anne and I are planning a trip to Tahiti and Bora Bora to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary March 3. It’s the one place that we have been to that we want to go back to. Bora Bora is really beautiful.”
Christie and David Marsh “continue to have a blast, traveling to gorgeous spots to hike/fish (her) and paint (him).” The next challenge is for Christie to hike the Great Western Trail from Mexico to Utah. David will provide logistical support every few days through Arizona’s thousands of miles of mining and forest roads. “Cartels shouldn’t bother us,” said David, “since ‘the border is secure.’”
Our sole Canadian, Anne-Marie Laverty, reported in January that she’s still alive. “Just about the only thing I’ve done since April 2022 has been resting and recuperating from surgery to remove a bladder carcinoma; the subsequent chemotherapy; two open-heart surgeries to deal with really massive heart attacks; an aortic-valve replacement; an antibiotic-resistant blood infection that kept me in hospital on an IV drip for four months; a bout of pneumonia; and a blood clot in one lung. But I’m recovering miraculously well, considering everything. I’ve got one more round of chemotherapy coming up in March and April, but I’m feeling great, and itching to do a lot of things my doctors tell me I mustn’t attempt yet. In early December my urologist could find no trace of cancer even at the microscopic level. And after a very thorough echocardiogram session the cardiologist reported that my heart was pumping as strongly, and putting out as much volume, as he’d expect from a healthy 50-year-old. For several months my weight has been holding steady at 160 + 3 lb.—only about 15 lb. more than I weighed at GDA! I’m told I shouldn’t count on getting back to all my accustomed activities before fall, and it will take
another year beyond that before the doctors will officially declare me cancer-free.
“Of course, I can’t resist gloating to all my American friends about the bill for almost a year of surgery, hospitalization, medical treatment, ambulance transfers, home care, prescription drugs, and all the rest: a grand total of $0.00. (And that’s in Canadian dollars!) I didn’t even have to fill out a form; just ran my B.C. driver’s license through the hospital’s scanner.”
Gardner Sisk began the new year by retiring. “Now I’ve got to find some productive things to do,” he said. “I’m starting to get used to being a Florida resident.”
Reid Pugh continues to split his time between St. Augustine and Charleston, West Virginia, with frequent stops in Charlottesville, where his daughter and family live. “My three grandchildren are the biggest focus of my life, and they are fantastic,” Reid emailed. “I’m looking forward to June. ‘Me, I’m going back to Massachusetts.’”
“The urge to hibernate has been strong the past year,” Cap Purinton wrote. “We still treasure visits with our granddaughter (now almost eight) when she has time for us. The ‘Wasp’ [ship] model progresses after a long holiday hiatus. Regarding other activities: I find by the time I am all warmed up, I am all worn out. Many moons ago I read Jean-Paul Sartre’s The Age of Reason, the essence of which can be condensed to one line in the second volume: ‘It is neither fair nor unfair, that is just the way it is.’ So I try to bear that in mind while entering the season of decline.”
From his Oklahoma perch, Rick Jensen sized up the baseball season in early January and predicted that the Braves would win the World Series. “But the Dodgers scare me!” The American League?
“The SOX are the SOX. I am surprised (to this day) that they did not trade Ted Williams, as the bottom line has always been more important than winning for the fans. Just ask Mookie!”
Another long-time Red Sox fan, Jeff Harris, reported, “The big
CLASS NOTES 51 Spring 2023
Left: Ward Westhafer ’67 and Wayne Noel ’67 enjoying the Christmas season · Right: Ray Huard ’67 and his sons Jon and Spencer sipping coconut drinks in the Bahamas
news is welcoming an oh-so-cute new granddaughter, Joss, to the family in November. I hope she is an academic ace, as high school graduation in 2040 might be pushing it a tad for Grampa. Hoping to get some skiing in with the grands this winter.”
“With the lessening of the pandemic threat,” Edwin Beatty wrote from Albuquerque in January, “last fall brought more opportunities for visits with out-of-state friends and shared outings in New Mexico. Visited Carlsbad Caverns in SE NM for the first time. Amazing! I’m not long on caves, but Carlsbad is one of the largest public networks of caves. In addition to being beautiful, and having the opportunity to hang out with long time friends from Washington, I learned a lot about the unique microbiology of caves.
“Earlier in the fall, I had another good friend visit from San Francisco, and we went off on an extended tour of Chaco Canyon, another site I’d long wanted to see. We went with a trained anthropologist from a nearby museum. Next up is my annual visit to the beach in Mexico in late February. Salt water and beaches are the only things I miss, living in the desert.”
Dan Morgan has logged some western miles, too. “Mayo and I just returned from a destination Christmas in La Jolla, California, where our son, Robb ’02, organized an Airbnb house big enough to fit the entire family. While our children and their families endured flight cancellations by Southwest Airlines on their returns, Mayo and I had planned a drive to Palm Springs for a few days there and, consequently, missed all the travel turmoil. Having never previously been to either location, it was all of interest and the family time was really nice.”
As he rushed off to Florida, in January, Stanley Greenberg emailed: “My message to the Class of ’67 is brief: ‘I am Groot.’”
Rich Brayton has been fortunate to spend time with his sons and two grandchildren lately even though they live in LA and Louisville. He has connected with a local Sausalito Village group, which sponsors outings, movie nights, and bird
watching walks. The rains this winter have kept him indoors, “but since the roof doesn’t leak and no trees have fallen, why worry?!” After a whirlwind 2022 that took them to Patagonia, Alaska, and the Natchez Trace Parkway, Paul Hemmerich and his wife Bart traveled to a ski-in ski-out lodge near Lake Louise, BC, in February and are planning a month of bike travel in Germany and Switzerland in July.
Speaking of Patagonia, Mike Rogers worked with Patagonia (i.e., the outdoor clothing and gear company) for 30 years and designed, among other things, the Badger Shirt. To see some of Mike’s creations, visit the Patagonia Archives in Ventura, California. “I will be writing stories about the creative processes, the art directors, Yvon Chouinard, whom I drank beer with while in their headquarters, and other nefarious activities,” Mike said. “Looks like the GDA Art Club, The Milestone, and The Governor had an effect on me after all.”
“We lost one of our German Shepherds due to cancer,” Web Pearce reported from Hollister, California, during the state’s stormy January. “Otherwise, nothing new other than the rain, which we need.”
Last fall Scott Cameron spent time in New Zealand, Australia, the Philippines, and Thailand. In January he was back in Asia, visiting Vietnam before heading to Thailand for some minor foot surgery.
Also visiting an operating room during the winter was Lew Rumford, for “two small surgeries for little skin cancer events. I plan to survive and await the next threat with increased appreciation for early detection.”
On January 5, Doug Curtis joined the Grandfather Club. The boy’s mother, Lindsay ’97, and her husband are in the process of moving stateside from London. Doug’s other daughter, Virginia, is getting married in Charleston, S.C., in September. She is the director of business development for Guidewire Technologies, Doug’s company. “Supply chain issues created by hoarding of certain raw materials have made a mess of our industry,” Doug said in January.
Another of our Newbury guys, former Selectman Joe Story, emailed early in the year: “Arthritis has slowed me down considerably. Looking forward to spring and better weather. Things are a lot better at the Cask and Flagon.”
“For 2023,” Anthony Gerard said, “I want to spend as much time as I can with the people who really matter to me: family and friends. Makes me so happy to be with them.”
Don Gay continues to sing, referee volleyball, and travel to see his grandchildren. “In January my wife Emily’s brother passed, and it took us two weeks to handle his transition from South Carolina to Detroit. This year, more traveling is in order, but Emily is keeping everything a secret until the last minute. I hope to attend the Super Bowl and see Buffalo win.”
’68 REUNION
Ted Nahil tednahil@gmail.com
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
Chris Page starts us off this time, reporting that, “Captain Rick Kaye-Schiess took four of us ’68ers on a very pleasant cruise in his Boston Whaler on August 26th. We launched in Eliot, Maine (near Portsmouth) and cruised up the Piscataqua and Cocheco Rivers to Dover, NH where we had lunch.” Chris included some great pictures of Rick, CF Spang, John Sowles, and Rob Lord. Art Veasey continued work on their new house on Squirrel Island: “Best to you and Terry. Hope you will get back this way someday soon. Our new cottage at Squirrel Island will be welcoming guests!”
Birthday wishes abound on a regular basis as you know, but Charles Johnson checked in for Chris’s birthday towards the end of September with this update: “Happy Birthday to Chris, and as another brother successfully adds a year, I offer a raised glass of very fine 10 year-old Russell’s bourbon in your honor. Now that I have all y’all’s (southern speak
for everybody) attention, I would like to explain my digital absence recently. We lost Laura’s dad to bladder cancer in May. And last year, in September, her mom had a below the knee amputation of her left leg, and she was soon up walking, but over the last 3 months she took a turn for the worse and she’s been confined to her bed and a wheelchair. She and her docs are trying to get her back on her feet but it’s looking less likely that she will.
I’d appreciated prayers for us, especially Laura and her mom.” After a good number of replies to Charles, he continued: “Thank you all for the condolences and prayers, they really do help. I’ve known them for 30+ years and, even though they’re well past their life expectancy, you’re still not prepared for life without them. You can never really prepare yourself against the loss of family and friends/classmates but you can keep them alive by holding them in your heart. Thank you all, you have made a difference for Laura and me, from my heart.” Amen to that, Charles.
I apparently didn’t know when Bubba’s birthday is and was summarily called out: “Hey…How ’bout me!!!!! September 3rd. Another September baby. I know, I know, I’m just a Johnny come lately, ‘a newcomer to or late starter at a particular place or sphere of activity,’ but I may be oldest? As I’m 73 already!!! Ted doesn’t love me anymore! Do I have to send a check? Or more class notes? For all you guys who feel sorry for me being forgotten, just send a good Scotch, or down one for me!” I’ve made it right and he’s in the calendar going forward. The exchanges gave us both a chance to remember his 1963 Bel Aire and trips to Canobie Lake, great memories without a doubt.
Many of you, including Rob Lord, Jon Williams, and Roger Smith were thinking of all of us who live in Florida towards the end of September as hurricane Ian approached the state. Elliott O’Reilly sent a nice note to me as the storm bore down on the west coast of Florida: “I know you’re on the other side but keep your feet dry! I’m worried about Porky Bennett who I show living in St. James City. Seems he may be riding
CLASS NOTES 52 Governor’s
the storm out there! My grandmother had a house in Naples until 1958. I vaguely remember visiting her there in the winter months. In those days downtown Naples was like a big strip mall with a gravel road and a huge fishing pier! I haven’t been to Florida since then.” Once the storm passed, I pinged Simon McCulloch who lives south of me to see how they were faring, and he wrote back: “Thank you for your message and I hope that you and your family are all staying healthy and safe! We had 40 mph winds and non-stop rain from Ian but no real damage. Tornadoes struck Delray Beach but not Boca Raton fortunately and flooding in many places. Stay well and safe.”
During the storm as we worried about Ned, one of his sons got a phone call from him. The connection was so bad that he couldn’t understand anything he said but verified that it was Ned by the phone number, so good news finally on that front! Ned sent me a picture looking out his kitchen window. For comparison, days later Ned posted a picture of his mailbox on FB and proved he hadn’t lost his sense of humor. Roger Smith reported as well: “Power is going
to be out for a week-plus in Punta Gorda. The storm surge and wind apparently left snow-bird condo there OK — Hope no injuries to you and yours.”
On October 6th, Marc Tucker shared some upsetting news about Billy Degen with us all: “A couple days ago Billy D. was taken by ambulance to our local AJH and then promptly transferred to Beth Israel in Boston. Bill had surgery to remove an AVM in his brain. He had a second surgery a few days later.” True to form, you folks stepped up to wish him a speedy recovery. The list was long and included John Emmerson, Winsor White, Steve Robinson, Jon Schaefer, Jon Williams, Chris Page, Peter Barkin, Don Hayes, Dave Mitchell, Elliott, Rob, Dan Look, Art Veasey, CF, Harold Levine, Roger, and Bubba. And Ross Raymond had some words typical of how we all were feeling: “Thank you all for exemplifying what the world needs more of. Even in the face of Bill’s current struggles reading these messages I find myself nodding my head up and down and smiling instead of shaking it and with a furrowed brow when I read most of what
shows up on my phone each morning. Praying for Bill, with warm regards, Ross.” Well said and yes, thank you Tuck for all the updates you provided and messages you took back to Bill from us. Grande added, “Thank you so much for the updates! You have been such a friend for Bill and source for us.”
Bubba wrote a “thank you, Tuck” message, and also let us all know, “I have a little granddaughter on the way, end of December. No, I will not call her Bill, no matter how much you beg me!”
The holidays came and went with our usual banter back and forth, and well-wishes for a happy new year, including a quick message from Evan Leviss! Great to hear from you, Evan! Elliott O’Reilly provided a detailed holiday update on his champion dogs: “Our one-year-old, DEOR Red Hot Jazz Attraction (Silky), recently became the 4th Papillon bred by us to become an AKC Champion in Conformation. Our Grand Champion Bronze, DEOR Debonaire Mickey You’re So Fine (Mickey), has ranked as high as the 9th place Papillon in the Country but not quite high enough to get
an invite to the Westminster Dog Show. While it is strictly a hobby, my wife has met the qualifications to apply as an AKC Breeder of Merit. After 2 years off due to Covid, I am back to Christmas caroling to raise money for children’s charities in St. Louis. Here is a picture of a group of us getting a picture with Cardinal Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith! I am definitely planning to attend our 55th reunion this coming summer!” And Jon Williams wrote: “I actually took a NEW job as purchasing manager for a luxury level homebuilder in Denver. My career has been primarily as a solo entrepreneur in construction, so it is refreshing to be part of a team. Mary’s gallery continues to thrive in Boulder. We love life near our grandchildren, whom we see often. Mary and I visited Connecticut this past summer, introducing them to the area. We stopped on the shore for a few days in Old Lyme, Essex and Old Saybrook, picture attached. (I am sorry to say the 160’ Chasseur in the background is not ours.) I appreciate you and Tuck and all of the class of ’68 for staying in touch. I hope to see some of you in June!”
Chris Page sent in a short teaser: “I have lots of travel and skiing plans lined up for this winter but don’t want to jinx them so will update all of you when they’re actually done. Joanne and I are well. Looking forward to seeing the boyz of ’68 at the reunion.” So if you want to know what Chris and Joanne did this winter, you’ll have to come to the reunion and hear it firsthand! Rick Kaye-Schiess has been working on a project about Wentworth Cheswell, working with Ola Russell: “Thank you for keeping me up to speed on the status of my essay. And, yes, I can wait until The Academy decides how and when to publish it. His story is worth the wait and it is time to share his contributions to our communities.”
Stay tuned for a publish date from Ola and Rick! And we got some very good news about Bill Degen around the holidays, too. Tuck reported: “There’s great holiday news regarding Bill. His doctors have approved his transfer into an advanced rehab facility. Once an opening is available, he’ll be moved to continue his rehab.” Peter Barkin says, “I am still practicing
CLASS NOTES 53 Spring 2023
Clockwise from top left: Elliot O’Reilly ’68 caroling for charity · Mickey, one of the champion Papillons, who belongs to Elliott O’Reilly ’68 · Harry Kangis ’68 and Julia atop Vogel Mountain in Slovenia · Anne and Dan Look ’68 on a canal tour in Amsterdam · Chris Page ’68 and CF Spang ’68
pulmonary and critical care medicine in Concord, MA—still full time, but no weekend call. Joyce and I moved to Cambridge a few years ago. Our son Rob is living with us, along with two golden retrievers, one aging and one a pup. A third family golden lives with our daughter Claire and her husband Josh in nearby Somerville. Claire works as a pastry chef at Formagio’s, a short, tasty, walk away. Ann, our oldest, is a stage manager in Manhattan. I look forward to the Red Dog reunion in June and plan to attend. I look at photos of us now as old men and see lads from Byfield days. Thanks to Ted for keeping us together and to Marc for keeping us informed about Bill especially.”
Wil Sullivan wrote in after his birthday, “Thanks for the greetings. If any of you venture out to Wellfleet I can give you a jar of cannabis. I have 5 strains this year and give it out to friends. I also find that I get return calls from repair people if I pay their invoice together with a tip.” Wil sent a photo as well, included here. How times have changed! Chuck Johnson sent me his Christmas letter and this quick update amid all the rain in the Sacramento area: “I don’t miss shoveling the liquid sunshine that the Northeast has been experiencing but we are experiencing heavy rains and flooding in northern
California as I type. The rains have not broken the back of our severe drought situation, but it has pushed back the threshold to catastrophe. Soggy with downed trees and flooding in some parts of town but other than a couple hours without power on a Saturday night in January, I’ve been OK. I leave for Seattle in the morning for a deferred Christmas with the kids as we are supposed to have a couple days of calm weather while I’m on the road. Traveling again, and made it to New England this past fall as well. Wishing you and your family a safe and Gott Nytt År.” And Roger Smith has moved: “Made the downsize move to smaller digs over the holidays, just a couple zip codes away in Connecticut. Planning to head to Florida soon in late January.” Ross Raymond says, “Still in RTP, NC working 8-10 hour days for ICON as a Principal Publisher submitting electronic submissions to US and global regulatory authorities. And grateful for the opportunity to still have a job at this age and stage. Riding my bike 10-12 miles every day helps keep it all in balance. Had a great holiday with my boys. Saw Avatar with my youngest son Adam. Regardless of what critics might opine, I sat spellbound for 3+ hours and never looked at my watch or (as my son later remarked) made a trip to the men’ room! The willing suspension of disbelief in action. I
will not make it back to New England until August for a family wedding in Ipswich. Will be in Alaska for 10 days in June with 10 of original 21 classmates from Yale PA Program celebrating a 45th reunion. Here’s hoping for a more peaceful and healthy 2023 for all.”
Don Hayes wrote in from afar: “I write this in January from Albuquerque as grandparent day-care duties get a short relief from parental paternity leave. We shall soon go back to L.A. and, by the time you read this, will have visited various doctors and dentists to arm us for further day-care chores in New Mexico. If anyone needs advice on the best rest-areas on Route 40 between L.A. and Albuquerque, feel free to inquire within. We hope to make it to New England in June to visit classmates, family, and friends, depending on child-care, virus, and travel exigencies. The possibility is currently looking good and I look forward to seeing familiar faces then.” I need to own up to the fact that I missed Don’s birthday on January 8, so I am now wishing him a very belated happy birthday! It won’t happen again, Don, promise! Harry Kangis wrote, “For us, 2022 was like emerging from a multi-year hibernation necessitated by Covid. We renewed our annual winter golf trips to visit old friends in Florida, we got back out on the trail again by visiting the U.S.’s newest scenic National Park (New River Gorge in WV), getting us to 60 in total now. A 2-year long focus on my 50th Williams College reunion ended on a perfect Berkshire County weekend in June. I chaired the team that assessed the class on the right target for our reunion capital gift, now dubbed The Fund for Engaged Scholarship. These year-long fellowships will encourage students to test ideas from the classroom in the real world, helping them to develop as leaders who can address some of the world’s most difficult problems. Much as our own GDA 50th reunion, the entire weekend was a special reminder that ‘you can’t make new 50-year friends.’ The other highlight of the year was finally taking our 3-year Covid delayed, small group tour of Croatia and Slovenia in October. We’ve been hearing wonderful things about this region for years, and it
did not disappoint. The history, people, accommodations, food and wine, and spectacular scenery were definitely a top 5 of all the places we’ve visited. And thanks to marinating our bodies in 5 Pfizer doses, we managed to come home Covidfree. I’m happy to share info on the guide who curated this experience for us. I hope to be there for our 55th, as long as the HS graduation schedule for our twin granddaughters does not get in the way.” Ned Bennett wrote in about the hurricane and more: “Jan 10 eating lunch under the 5th wheel awning next to my neighbor’s boarded up house. Steady flow of locals contracted to get debris & smaller boats out of the canals. Beautiful weather. The hurricane was and is very interesting. Brings out the good & bad in everything. Much more good than bad. So my wife & I and two cats rode it out. Lost some roof, had a tidal surge a foot over the mailbox, clear view of the sky from the kitchen during most of the storm. Fortunately, we live in a stilt so the surge was 5 feet below us. It’s funny because after there was a couple of inches of rain on the floor, coconuts and 2x4’s flying, a 50 foot boat lying on its side across the cul de sac, we agreed it was not that scary. More like exciting. So where we are in St James City everything that wasn’t 5 feet above ground level has severe water damage. We have no real problems compared to many. This was a reset for all of us. It’s likely a 2 to 5 year project at 72 years old. There’s no other place we want to be, but God might have other ideas. Feeling blessed.”
Finally, Dan Look’s update was exceptional as always! “I must first start by thanking you for being the communications gravitational center for our class. I find the opportunity to look back at the past six months to be a wonderful process of reflection. Since June of 2022 I have had a lot going on. In June, Anne and I celebrated our 50th anniversary. I married above my pay grade and am so grateful for the time with my best friend. In July we spent most of the month in Connecticut with family and friends. I had the opportunity to sail Windshadow on Long Island Sound. August found us between our home in North Carolina and our family in Connecticut. In
CLASS NOTES 54 Governor’s
Left to right: Rick Kaye-Schiess ‘68 and CF Spang ‘68 aboard Rick’s boat · Rob Lord ’68 and John Sowles ’68 aboard Rick’s boat · Mary and Jon Williams ‘68 in Old Saybrook · Wil Sullivan ’68 during the holidays
September we went to France for our anniversary trip. We flew into Paris, a car service to Amsterdam for four days in Amsterdam, went to Reims for four days, then Bayeux/ Normandy for five days and then back to Paris. October found us again back in Connecticut. November and December we were home for the holidays. One of the highlights of the past year has been the growth and evolution of our project in DC. We developed and are managing a building on the old Walter Reed campus to serve homeless from the district. One wing of the building is for homeless veterans (84), another for homeless seniors (72) and we have recently been filling a wing for homeless seniors requiring assisted living. An incredibly rewarding experience and an amazing and wonderful group of people. I am also continuing my work with the American Association for Caregiving Youth and the continued mission of my not-for-profit for veteran caregivers. As I look back over the year, I find our trip to France incredibly powerful and moving. The Anne Frank house, the countryside of France, the beaches of Normandy and the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in France at Collevillesur-Mer are poignant and powerful. As I stood on Omaha Beach I could look to where my uncle’s destroyer was stationed during D-Day. The residents of the Normandy region are still grateful for the sacrifices of strangers. Again, these reflections have filled me with gratitude for the opportunities and gifts I have been afforded. It has also reinforced for me I am able to do what I do because I stand on the shoulders of others. Not the least of which are the masters, experiences and classmates from Gov. Dummer. To all my classmates and GDA family, I extend my gratitude. The memories and friendships from those three years are foundational. Thank you.
I look forward to seeing everyone in June at our 55th. CF and I are planning to sail to the Reunion.
Terry and I [Ted Nahill] continue to enjoy life in Florida, Covid and hurricanes not withstanding! All the shots and three boosters and I’ve still had the darn thing twice since last spring. We dodged Ian for the most part and just had a lot of rain and wind as it went up the coast on
the other side of the state. We’re fortunate to have our daughter and her family twenty minutes away from us. It’s a joy to watch our grandsons grow up. Jack is a freshman in high school and will get his learner’s permit in March. It’s amazing how quickly the time passes! Our son and our granddaughters in Denver are also an integral part of our lives. Thank God for FaceTime! Without that, I can’t imagine how we would stay in touch. We get to see them grow as well and are involved in their lives thanks to our iPhones. We visited in December and got to see Kylie in her play and Brooklyn at her cheer competition, so it was a well-timed visit! We enjoy the fall because we’re avid football fans –NFL mostly, some college, but not a lot. As I write this from our cabin on the Odyssey of the Seas, we’re in the middle of wild card weekend, and there’s lots going on. We’re at Labadee today, sailing from here to Aruba, then Curacao, and back to Fort Lauderdale. It’s a favorite pastime of ours again. It’s great to be able to just drive to a ship. Speaking of driving, we will most likely drive to New England in the spring and be there for the reunion, at least that’s the plan right now. In the meantime, take care and stay safe. Keep those updates coming and I look forward to seeing a lot of you in June!
The Cardinal & White Club recognizes graduates of the last decade who have given for two or more consecutive years, or who contribute $100 or more in a single fiscal year to any fund. Over 150 young alumni are a part of this special recognition and we welcome our graduates of classes from 2013 to the present to join your classmates and show your love for Govs!
Billy Clyde coachbclyde@gmail.com
Here we are. Short notes...but good ones!
Great update from Wil Durham
A growing family keeps him and his wife, Vikki, busy. They have welcomed several grandchildren into their lives. The warm weather of Arizona beckons. This is a good chance to escape the winter of Wyoming...and an opportunity to improve the golf game! A family reunion in the Wisconsin Dells with brother Geoff ’72 was a highlight this fall. Good to hear from you, Wil.
Greg Wellman checks in and is very grateful to have good health and an appreciation for work and family during these otherwise trying times. (Love that perspective!)
Greg had an adult family reunion
CLASS NOTES 55 Spring 2023
’69
OUR YOUNGEST ALUMNI INSPIRE US NOT ONLY WITH THEIR BURGEONING PHILANTHROPY, BUT ALSO WITH THEIR LOYALTY. Join the Club!
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Love without Restraint
When doctors recommended physical restraints, heavy medication, and group home placement as a response to his son Ryan’s intense emotional outbursts, Rob DeLena ’87 decided to go in a different direction–specifically, down a ski slope.
“I hadn’t skied in 25 years, but during one challenging outburst, I put Ryan in the car and drove to a beginner hill,” DeLena said. By his second day of skiing, Ryan was executing advanced runs.
The father and son began skiing together every weekend, first in New England and then around the world. “On each trip, I saw a different kid than everyone else, and my wife Mary Beth and I began to challenge the doctors and educators who were so certain about Ryan’s limited future,” said DeLena.
On a trip to Antarctica in 2018, DeLena and his son began writing what would eventually become their co-authored book Without Restraint: How Skiing Saved My Son’s Life, published in March 2023.
Today, Ryan is a well-known outdoorsman who is training to be a professional ski and rock-climbing guide. He’s also a college student at Northern Vermont University and has interned for Ice Axe Expeditions in the Svalbard Islands and in Antarctica.
“This book is truly a labor of adventure and heart,” said DeLena. “It’s a story for anyone who has felt misunderstood or constrained, and I hope it brings optimism to others.”
in Maine and Massachusetts and got to spend some time in S. Byfield for the first time in many years. He recalled past glories and noted many positive changes on campus. “I refuse to retire! I enjoy my work as a business software consultant!” However, he does admit that he may slow down some...just a bit. Thanks for sharing, Greg. Do not be a stranger!
Jeff Gordon relates that Newport is a great place to live for many reasons. Foremost is the fact that the grandchildren and their parents love to come for visits! Sounds like a win-win to me! With five grandchildren, many afternoons are spent tossing a baseball or learning lacrosse skills. Heb would be happy watching the young ones fling the ball around! Jeff hosted Dave Forbes and his family as they celebrated fifty years of marriage. Wow! Have they been married the longest in our class? Jeff and Jan are closing in on forty-eight. Congrats! Visits to campus include poignant memories of Heb, Buster, Val, and quiet time in the Chapel. Jeff has no plans to retire. “Work is still too much fun!” He sends his best wishes to the great class of 1969.
Tim Tenney, John O’Leary, and Pete Borneman are getting together in Colorado in late January for a ski holiday. I used to ski. Now, I like to watch skiing...from my living room...in front of a warm fire. Have fun, you three.
I am in touch with Doug Macdonald, Jack Connelly, and Peter Dorsey. They are all healthy and happy and send their best wishes to the class. Doug and Cheryl Macdonald will be traveling to England this June and will meet up with Billy and Kathie Clyde in the Normandy area of France. We will tour a couple of cathedrals, sample some wines, eat oysters, and most importantly, tour the Normandy Beaches made famous on the sixth of June 1944. Bon voyage! My wife and I have downsized to a smaller home in town (Wooster) and delight in having more time with the grandchildren, taking five-day bike trips, and fitting in a little golf. Remember to keep June of ’24 in your plans...55 years! Stay in touch, you all. We all want to hear your news.
CLASS NOTES
’71
James Fleming jamesfleming817@gmail.com
Ted Northrup says, “It was great seeing all of you classmates who showed up for our Reunion (50th and 51st) last June. I thought everyone looked great and it was fun talking to many of you whom I haven’t seen for 51 years. Way too long. Additionally, our efforts to establish sufficient funds for the Peter G. Alfond Memorial Scholarship Fund were successful and the $1,000,000 check from the Harold Alfond Foundation was delivered to the Academy in December. What a pleasure working with Mike Mulligan, Mike Hoover, Sam Tamposi, Tom McMeekin, James Fleming, John Clayman, Mike Fish, and Barry Burlingham for the last 3+ years to establish this 50th Reunion gift to the Academy, The Class of 1971, Peter Alfond Scholarship. A special thanks to Tom Trafton (and Bill Deptula) for keeping our leadership committee on track and focused on the goal line. Undoubtedly, Peter would be pleased and proud of our class efforts to honor him in this way. And for a family update—Mary-Pat and I live in Cazenovia, NY in the Summer and North Palm Beach,
FL in the winters. Lots of golf. Still skiing. 3 daughters and spouses and 8 grandkids keep us busy. And Mike Fish is still my favorite “cousin-in-law,” as he married my cousin Marion after I introduced them in 1970. I sincerely hope that our paths will cross in future years —certainly back at GDA for our 60th—God willing.
Michael Reid reports from Thailand. Unfortunately like many of us, he has caught Covid, twice, once being long Covid. Seems this virus will not leave us alone. The good news from Michael is: “A truly wonderful event is that I shall be a grandfather to my son Nicholas’ daughter in January.”
Gig Barton advises he is spending most of his time living and remodeling his house in Nahant, on the North Shore of Massachusetts.
Will Phippen advises all is well and he is “living the dream” in Wenham, MA.
Ellis Withington’s son, Henry, is in the United States Army. He is in the 84th Chemical Battalion CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear). This is the part of the Army branch that specifically defends against the threat of
biological and chemical weapons, “dirty bombs” and weapons of mass destruction. Way to go, Ellis. We know you are proud of him.
Jack Cutler ’70 is my neighbor in Redding, CT. Our sons, James and Jeremy, are friends and have been classmates since kindergarten. We recently got together as both sons were home for the holidays.
Jon Roof has written in from Hawaii: “I am retired and living on the coast in Kona, Hawaii. Had a successful forty-year career in banking and securities. I lived in Tucson, Arizona for 45 years. 48th anniversary coming up to a girl I met at age 16. Went to India more than a dozen times and wrote three books on Indian Vedanta. In good health. Life has been good to me. Best regards, Jon.”
John Capron reports from California: “After 14 years of ‘semi-retirement’ in Hawaii, followed by a divorce, it saddens me to report that full retirement is not in my foreseeable future—unlike many of my happy classmates who leave me green with envy. I’m still working as general counsel for Purple Brands, a wine and spirits company based in Sonoma County. We have a few national brands
that you may have run across:
Raeburn (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and a recently launched Cabernet), Scattered Peaks (Napa Cab), and Redwood Empire whiskey (great stuff, for those of you who still imbibe). Attached is a photo from a recent executive retreat in San Diego. That’s me on the left. To the right of me are our V.P. of marketing, CEO, V.P. of sales and director of HR. Not a bad gig for a lawyer, although I’d far prefer retirement.”
From the Motor City, Russ Ethridge sends news and photos: “I missed the reunion because I was just back from a crazy trip to Iceland. I regret not seeing everyone. I’m just judging now part time, working on golf, playing a ton of guitar, and also trying to stay active by skiing, boating/sailing, and biking. My brilliant wife Dr. Deb Wright went part time, so we are traveling and enjoying our interesting children, all of whom are off our payroll. Detroit has become a fun town, so there is plenty for us to do around here. Attached is a picture of me and Deb at a Detroit Red Wings game last November. I’m also attaching a photo of the family last October when our middle child Meryl, a budding trauma surgeon, married her high school sweetheart at our house at Seagrove, FL,
CLASS NOTES 57 Spring 2023
Clockwise from top left: Russ Ethridge ’71 and family at the wedding of daughter Meryl · John Capron ’71 and colleagues on an executive retreat in San Diego · Henry, United States Army, son of Ellis Withington ’71 · James Fleming ’71, Jack Cutler ’70 and their sons during the holidays · Russ Ethridge ’71 and his wife Deb Wright at a Detroit Red Wings game · Jon Roof ’71, pictured with Sai Baba about 10 years ago
just down the beach from Mike Hoover’s place. Son Will is on the left, and youngest Madison is in the red dress. (The old man on the right is me!!) Shot clock is on for all of us, so would love another reason to meet up. Maybe an NYC venue !”
’72
George Freimarck gfreimarck@gmail.com
Dear Classmates of 1972, nearly nine months on from our 50th reunion as I write this in mid-January. Still reliving moments from that glorious get together. So much so that I’ve included a few of the candids I took during Tunk Hosmer’s fantastic wine sipping, ’neath the ancient elms.
News, news, news! I gratefully reproduce here your updates, including retirements, and new forms of engagement.
Kevin Kearney writes: “…After 45 years in sales and product management in the chemical raw material industry, I retired June 1, 2022. On June 1st the 100 or so work emails I received each day came to an end cold turkey. An amazing realization of instant freedom. A great way to begin my retirement and
it continues to be most enjoyable every day.” Thank you Kevin, for that update. Congratulations on the retirement. Maybe a little more time to spend to tickling the ivories, eh?
Our own Grand Poobah of the Reunion, Peter Conway, has found suitable employment in his retirement, as he advises in his latest note: “Howdy, Choppah,…I am now a substitute Principal’s Aide at an elementary school in Westford. What’s a Principal’s Aide (PA for short) do? A PA monitors grades Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grades recess and lunch. There’s about 100 kids in each class and there are 4 PA’s keeping an eye on things. The day starts at 11:20am w/ the 1st graders; then kindergarten and ends at 1:40pm w/ the 2nd graders.. It’s keeping me a patient man, that’s for sure. I’m getting very good at opening milk cartons!
I am also very pleased that the 72ers are keeping in touch via email and you’re a huge reason for that, George. Thank you. Best, Peter.” A wonderful image, Peter, for sure, keep up the good work!
I also asked for remembrances of our long ago, and received a cryptic note from Rob Yaffe, about a group of unclad students emerging from
the woods, with clothes in hand. This mysterious note was accompanied by a naked (see what I did?) threat that I would not publish. But by gum, damn the torpedoes. Who knows which buoys (and gulls?) were involved in this escapade. If we learn more, maybe we can couple with the story of the Halloween ’71 moveable bash in Marblehead. Time, folks, will tell.
The indefatigable Geoff Durham reports: “I am doing what I have done for many of these past years to prepare and get through the Chicago winter, look forward to Spring and warmer weather. Plus, I still attend the Northwestern basketball games regularly which helps the winter pass. They have been playing better than expected. The Chicago sports teams continue to disappoint especially as of late with the Bears, the Black Hawks and the Bulls all playing poorly.
“Spending as much time as we can with our one year old grandson, Logan. Having them live close by is a treat allowing for frequent visits.
“With the change of the seasons, I no longer have golf tournaments occurring nearby at which to volunteer, but I continue to volunteer in the ER on Friday and Sunday
mornings. Lots of different things go on seemingly every time I am there making it interesting and new each time. The flu, RSV and COVID are certainly ever-present.” Geoff thank you and here’s hoping your Northwestern Wildcats bring some cheer in the coming months.
PR man extraordinaire, and native of the now frosted Berkshires, but living in the Pac N’west, Gus Selke, responded in part to a Christmas message. He acknowledges Jim Irving’s detective novels, and comments on the small acts of continuing engagement from all of us that sustain the Academy. “ Yo-Ho-Ho Choppah. Another great one, thank you, from the off-season image of Marblehead (not Swampscott), to your incredibly apt description of Jim V’s terrific series. I too am actively anticipating the release of his latest with the stellar title within the series which evokes that great song from ‘our year’ of 1972. Jim is probably too modest to promote his work in The Archon (or I missed it), so I never would have known about the books without your emails. I’ve purchased a dozen copies for friends and submitted praise on Amazon, so Jim really should cut you in, lol!
“It’s interesting that several of us
CLASS NOTES 58 Governor’s
Top row, L to R: Peter Phippen ’72 and Michael Wellman ’71 · Karen and Mark Woodbury ’72 · Photography by Michael Kaplan ’72
· Bottom row, L to R: Linda and Rob Martin ’72 and Tim Traver ’72 · Bill Watts ’72, Abby Halperin and Chris Swenson ’72, Jim Pierce ’72, Joth Davis ’72, and Bill’s daughter, Kate meet-up in Seattle · Ellis Withington ’71 and Mark Hoffman ’73
developed a taste for good writing at our alma mater. Writing doesn’t come easily to me (I can slowly edit my way to passable), so I am all the more impressed by those who can string words beautifully. Like you and Jim...
“In the bullets from your valuable role on the Alumni Council, I learned there are multiple benefits to increasing participation. Which of course is a different goal requiring different tactics than amount. To address participation it’s vitally important to be able to reach every member of a class, since it ain’t easy hitting 25% when starting with only 50…
“You also hinted that TGA is close to the ‘Top 20’ in applications and acceptance, which would be a huge win! Reaching Top 20 could be a powerful goal for fundraising.”
Thanks Gus. You will all have noted how artfully I include each and every laudatory reference to self. Shameless, I know, but it keeps me going in my dotage.
As to writers, we would be woefully remiss not to mention either outdoor writer Tim Traver or Pete Follansbee, poet laureate of this and a number of other places!
Michael Kaplan continues to run his successful photography studio in Portsmouth, NH and says “Please let all know I am alive and well, still enjoying my camera. I attached something I was working on this afternoon. Sorry I missed the reunion, looked like a great time. Enjoy the rest of your winter and hope to see you down the road.”
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Remodelista in Maine
Maine just might be the birthplace of the original do-it-yourselfers … or at least so says Annie Quigley ’10, whose first book, Remodelista in Maine, is a celebration of life in Maine and a guide to creating a home “the Maine way.”
“Beyond its rocky coast, rugged landscape, and quaint summer towns, Maine life is about rolling up your sleeves and doing things by hand, whether that’s mending a hem or renovating a kitchen,” writes Quigley. “Maine style is thrifty, unfussy, inherently eco-friendly, and wholly inspired, and there are endless handeddown bits of know-how to borrow (like keeping a pair of pruners in the glovebox for collecting roadside flowers), whether you love Maine or have never been.”
The book, which was released in May of 2022 from Artisan Books, gives readers Maine-inspired design lessons, room-by-room tours of standout houses throughout the state, tips and how-tos from creative Maine professionals, design-minded trip itineraries, and more.
Quigley, who lives in Portland, Maine, is the editor in chief at Remodelista, an online publication dedicated to guiding readers through the remodeling and design process. Remodelista in Maine is the first of the brand’s five books that have been dedicated to a particular place.
“Maine is a place whose style exemplifies what Remodelista has always been about,” writes Quigley. “Now, more than ever, the state is filled with design-forward places to go and singular homes that are timeless and personal, shaped by generations of summers and winters.”
REUNION
I close with best wishes to all, and a brief call to remember your alma mater, and stay in touch! ’73
Glen Winkel drwink@me.com
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
Greetings to the Class of 1973! This is our last class notes prior to our 50th, yes, our 50th high school
CLASS NOTES
Photo: Greta Rybus
reunion! The calendar doesn’t lie and yes indeed 50 years have passed since we left the safety of our small high school nestled in the Byfield valley. And while so much time has passed since we moved on to the rest of our lives, I know that our experience at GDA changed our lives and set us all on a path to where we are today. Perhaps it was something one of your teachers mentioned in class, or an experience on the playing field, or interactions with your fellow classmates and friends. The experiences at this time in our lives made a difference and sometimes you may not be aware until you return to the Academy and those memories come back as a flood and complete the time and space loop into a full circle. This is what gives our lives perspective. June 9th is coming up rapidly and your fellow classmates are awaiting your return to the Academy for a weekend to remember. This is the BIG one! Whether your first reunion or one of many, make plans to attend and share in the circle of life that began at Governor Dummer 50 years ago!
My request for class notes came back with everything from simple
responses to longer essays. Larry Coles dropped me a brief note, “Class of 1973 Rocks. Look forward to seeing everyone at the 50th Reunion!” Indeed, I agree and I also get the pleasure of working with Larry on the 50th Reunion planning committee! Remember to thank those on the committee who are currently planning to make our reunion memorable. Jim Fox (who missed the last class notes deadline) re-sent his notes well ahead of schedule along with some fabulous photos! “Will be married 40 years this year to my wife Donna and live in her hometown Melrose MA. Retired 3 years this last July from Eastern Bank. Have my first granddaughter Kenzie, 21 months old from my daughter Hayley who lives In Rowley minutes from Governors. (Future student?) My son Mac has a very successful business in health care patient advocacy. Golfing a lot. Still play chess occasionally. Looking forward to seeing old friends.”
Walter Rivera, our esteemed New York State Judge, writes in, “This past summer I received a surprise visit from Don Ricardo (“Rick”) Wynn, who I had not seen in 50 years. Rick did not graduate with
us, but expressed an interest in attending our 50th reunion to see his former classmates. I have attached a photo.
“As I approach my 68th birthday, I am still serving as a state judge in New York and have been very engaged with mentoring students, attorneys and new judges with a view to promoting and expanding diversity in the legal profession and the judiciary. I am supported in these efforts by the Latino Judges Association, and have the honor of serving as President. My wife Isabel and my three children, Julian, Aiyana and Marcelo, continue to make me proud, and I am blessed every day by their love and support. I look forward to seeing everyone at our 50th. Has it really been that long?”
Walter, thank you for the photo!! I remember Rick Wynn and I hope he will attend reunion. I still recognized him after 50 years and I still remember his upbeat and humorous spirit. It’s memories like this that I look forward to at our 50th as well.
We had a special reunion within
the reunion at the 50th reunion of the class of 1972. Guy and the Greasers had a tremendous comeback moment at reunion and Mark Hoffman send in a report with the 50th in mind. “Guy & the Greasers played at Reunion 2022 to well-attended performances on campus. It was the first time in 50 years that the band had played shows. Although this was the Class of ’72’s 50th Reunion, members of the Class of ’73 were there in force showing their enthusiastic support: Dorcie Barry, Carol Salloway, Ginny George, and Sally Brown ’74. The Greasers Band was formed in 1970, before the Academy went co-ed, and played that school year to an all-men’s audience, except at gigs at women’s school mixers (Dana Hall, Concord Academy, Pingree and Walnut Hill). In 1971 the Academy went co-ed and the first women appeared on campus. There were only about 15 of them (5% of the student body) and many were commuting up to two hours each day. Breaking into the social life on campus was a real challenge as classes were co-ed, but sports teams were not. These courageous pioneers faced so many challenges and overcame them all. But social
CLASS NOTES 60 Governor’s
Left: Walter Rivera ’73 and Don Ricardo (“Rick”) Wynn ’73 · Center top: Glen Winkel ’73 at the top of Namsan Mountain overlooking downtown Seoul · Center middle: Jim Fox ’73 with his adorable granddaughter, Kenzie · Center bottom: A toast to Geoff Peters ’73, who will not be able to attend our 50th, but will definitely be there in spirit. We’ll miss you, Geoff · Right: A great family photo of Jim Fox ’73, his wife Donna, and their kids, Hayley and Mac
activities were another story: At that time the students would be shipped, by bus, to a local women’s prep school for mixers or a bus from a women’s prep school would arrive on campus for a mixer in the Frost Library. Many members of the Greasers Band had attended mixers and saw how difficult it was for the Academy women to attend these mixers with women from other schools outnumbering them 20 to 1.
The GDA women were very loyal and enthusiastic fans of the band, right from the start, and always attended our concerts and dances. The band was grateful for their support and played on-campus dances with no outside women’s schools included. This raised the morale for all the students and made for a more natural atmosphere on campus. The Headmaster Val Wilkie noticed this improvement in morale and encouraged the band to play more shows.
By the time 1972 rolled around, there were 30 women on campus (10% of the student body) and things were changing fast. There was a new Headmaster on campus and he and the Dean of Students decided that Guy & the Greasers were essential for improving school morale. The newly constructed Dining Room Wing was provided to the Greasers as a practice and recording studio. The recordings on our website, guyandthegreasers. com were all recorded in that studio 50 years ago by the bands’ technical crew, Mark Manuelian and Doug Wilson. Just about every weekend, the band had a gig at a high school in Massachusetts (Lexington, Andover, Swampscott, Triton, BC High and many more). Permission was granted for the band members and GDA student fans to leave campus for these gigs. Morale did improve and the band played many a show on campus including a final show dedicated to the Class of ’73 in the Gym. Pictures of this show are visible on the band’s website: guyandthegreasers.com.
The Greasers Roadie Hall of Fame includes: Scott Arthur, Jeff Haaren, Adam Sandler, Chris and Robin Baker, and Tony Hall
Current Roadie Extraordinaire is Mark Manuelian’s wife Debbie
and the two of them are an amazing technical team.
Greaser Band members Geoff White, Mark Manuelian, and Mark Hoffman are looking forward to seeing their fellow classmates in June for Reunion 2023 (our 50th class reunion).”
Can you feel the excitement building? Are you feeling the urge to pick up your mouse and book that trip back to Byfield?
I also included a photo from one of our classmates, who I have been in touch with over the past few years. When I sent out a request for class notes, I received a reply from Geoff Peters, who was very excited about returning for reunion, however he wasn’t sure he would make it as he had been diagnosed with cancer. He had asked me not to share this with the class and we stayed in touch monthly, with me encouraging him through his chemotherapy. Unfortunately, Geoff lost his battle with cancer and passed away last spring. I know he will be with us at reunion and I hope we can all lift a glass to all of our classmates who cannot attend, but will be there with us in spirit.
I also received a brief note from Tom Bell! who writes, “Not one to respond to class note solicitations but I’ll be in South Korea for a couple of weeks arriving March 13th. My daughter, Alison, son-inlaw, Damon and grandson, Nolan are there for about 6 more months as Damon is stationed at Osan Air Base. Alison is taking time off from IBM while in Korea and is training for the Seoul Marathon with a group of fellow runners on the base. This will be her first marathon (and she says her last) and I’m excited to be able to ‘hold the sweats!’ I’ve been working a retirement gig at New Balance and I’ve been supplying my daughter with running gear. Needless to say, she went out and bought a pair of Saucony’s!”
I saved Tom’s note for the end, cause you might ask, what’s with the South Korea connection? So I might add my own insight to these international plans. I have been accepted into the Foreign language Institute of Kangwon National
University in Chuncheon City, Gangwon Province in South Korea!
At the ripe old age of 68, I will be a student once again, taking 6 intensive semesters (1.5 years) of Korean language courses. I will be arriving in South Korea on Valentine’s Day, 120 years since my grandfather and great-grandfather left Korea in 1903 and also on the 120 year anniversary of my great grandparents on my grandmother’s side as well. It’s quite a journey, which I hope to share with many of my classmates as this is a return to my homeland, South Korea.
I am making plans to return to Byfield for reunion, despite the complications of international travel and Korean language classes, so if I can make it to reunion from South Korea, you too can travel domestically or internationally to celebrate 50 years since we left the Academy in 1973! I look forward to seeing everyone in Byfield. Till then, stay healthy, keep your chin up and finalize your plans for our 50th reunion.
Your humble (international) class secretary, Glen Winkel
Lisa Johnson: All is well in the Johnson household. We have almost everyone now on the same continent. First time in six years! Hopefully the last player will be coming soon. Busy times as I think about next steps. How do I simplify? What is most important? How do I help save the world? How do I keep healthy? So many big questions. I’m happy when I get through the day in one piece and everyone is healthy! Be well my friends!
Michael Sapuppo: Here are a couple of pictures from my latest adventure. I’ve always wanted to do the trek to Everest Base Camp.
Pam Pandapas pamrobfine@msn.com
Pam Pandapas; Well, here we are again. Rob and I enjoyed a relatively quiet summer and fall attending some concerts and soccer games and other warmweather recreating. My vegetable garden was a great success this year…for the deer and other hungry critters! I had a bountiful garden one day with fruits and vegetables almost ready to harvest only to find most everything gone the next. I definitely have my work cut out for next summer.
Meantime, I am tackling various projects during these winter months while Rob continues to work hard. I may even get up north to do some skiing this winter. We also hope to get in some travel along with more concerts, sporting events, and even some sailing next summer. I look forward to seeing everyone in 2025 for our 50th. Until then, stay safe and healthy and have fun!
Dave Bohman: I just signed a three-year contract to continue working as the Investigative Reporter and part-time anchor for WPTV, the NBC station in West Palm Beach. Hey, someone has to keep our public officials and institutions honest! One daughter graduated from Emerson College this spring and works in New York City in marketing, the other will be graduating from Pace University in New York City in May. I am spending my free time running in 5k road races, much slower than I did on Mike True’s GDA Cross Country team, but occasionally winning my age group. If anyone is vacationing in the Palm Beaches, please look me up.
Rich O’Leary: Not much new to report here. I had a quick visit with Jamie White who was visiting friends on the Cape this summer. Spencer Purinton and I missed our annual summer golf outing there but will fix that this summer. And Sam Gilliland and I still wander the grave yard here at home on cold winter days. COVID really short-changed our class on Reunion time. When can we see each other again?
Peter Richardson: I just passed the one-year mark since retiring and have no regrets. My wife Beth and I are dedicated pickleball players and you’ll find us on the courts 3-4 days a week (or more). It’s addictive! In addition to pickle, I have been serving as a volunteer mediator for the Consumer Protection Division of the Maine Attorney General’s office, refereeing consumer/business disputes. I am also
CLASS NOTES 61 Spring 2023
’75
volunteering in the AARP Tax-Aide program, which is a free tax prep service offered nationwide.
Beth and I will be spending February in Florida, a trial for us, as we seek ways to avoid the Maine winters. And, of course, we spend as much time as we can with our grandchildren: Andon, 5 and Parker, 20 months. They live in Maryland, so we are frequent DC flyers. My best to everyone.
Sam Gilliland: Since my last report, the Gilliland clan continues to survive the storm unscathed. We were fortunate enough to spend a few weeks both this summer and fall visiting Beth’s family at the beach in Southern California. Our middle daughter, Leigh started work on her MBA at NYU in September while her two sisters, Anne and Charlotte continued traveling the globe at the behest at their employers in NYC. Following several years’ work, Beth’s Paul Newman memoir project was finally published last October and it enjoyed several weeks on the best seller list through the holidays. Just before Christmas, I had great fun walking the hood, and later dining with our classmate and good neighbor, Richard O’Leary. I’m pleased to report that Rich still maintains the same strong stride he did while captaining the GDA cross-country team 47 years ago. My best to the 1975 crew!
Craig McConnell: There’s nothing much to talk about from northeast Ohio. We spent Christmas and New Year’s in the Florida Keys. We continue to foster Golden Retrievers and recently sent our 25th foster to a new home. We also picked
up a new puppy of our own and he’s been a real trip. I don’t know if anyone remembers Heb Evans’s dog, Wendy, but our Roscoe is the same breed. He is constantly moving except when recharging which doesn’t seem to be very often. We remain pretty quiet until May when we can finally get back outside to work in the gardens.
Mike Ponce: Annie made the Dean’s list at SCAD for the fall semester again. Lindsay is taking glassblowing next semester. I am expanding my bees from six to eight hives. Jen continues to downsize the greatest generation from their homes to their retirement communities. Here in PA we have not suffered the results of global warming as has the rest of the country. I’d like to hear from Andy Woodcock if any of you know his whereabouts. Cheers from The Ponces!
Starr Gilmartin: I don’t have much to report from Down East Maine. Our winters have established themselves as having a significant snow deficit over the years that is really putting a crimp in my outdoor recreating, which was a draw for us when we moved here from the invariably stale and monotonous Florida. We have gone downhill and cross-country only once so far and we can absolutely forget about snowshoeing. Last year I challenged myself to do more group climbing using spikes or crampons. This year we don’t even have much ice. So I’m just walking the carriage roads. Maybe Brit Babcock can bring some fun adventures this way in the Spring. I haven’t been doing much volunteer work for the American Red Cross Disaster
Services due to COVID, but decided it was about time so I spent 10 days in Florida volunteering during Hurricane Ian. As for travel for fun, there isn’t too much to report, but we are planning a trip to Puerto Rico for 9 days. It just so happens that where we are going is adjacent to where there was a musical festival, Mar Y Sol, in April of 1972, initially billed as the International Woodstock. There was great musical entertainment but that is where the similarities to Woodstock ended. There were lots of thefts, a murder, accidental deaths, but I managed to have an amazingly memorable time for 3 days, despite being robbed of everything immediately upon arrival. Here’s to one’s ability to see the glass as half full!
Keith Esthimer: We’re in the middle of completing a second class of Stephen Ministers in our church, The First Congregational Church of Norwood MA, basically lay Christian ministers to help those in need, which is very gratifying.
Pam Post: I have been volunteering as a weekend puppy raiser for VetDogs America. They breed Labradors as service dogs for veterans at their headquarters in New York. The puppies are raised by inmates in prisons throughout New England. The prisoners earn a salary for training the pups during the week, and on the weekends the puppy raisers socialize them. I was matched with a black lab pup named Eva Jean. The pups are named in honor of veterans. I got to bring her home for the first time in September and every weekend since then we have been going out into the world to introduce her to
situations she may encounter as a service dog and that she wouldn’t get to experience in the prison.
So far, the most fun was going to L.L.Bean. She checked out the dog bed section, but points were deducted when she barked at the moose!
’78 REUNION
M
Phil Graham chanter53@gmail.com
Tom
Driscoll drisclaw@yahoo.com
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
M Phil Graham here. For myself, my sister, Elizabeth, and I are planning to visit our aunt in Oregon this September. We will also drop down for 2 days to the small town of Etna in Northern California to visit a community that is very active in Christian education, traditional living, etc. This trip was put off since 2020 for various reasons, and now we look forward to visiting everyone, enjoying some higher end single malt with my adopted uncle Greg and taking in the area!
Andrew Bendetson: Good to hear from you M and thanks for your work as our Class Secretary. After living and working in real estate in the Boston area my whole life, I moved to Palm Beach, FL a couple years ago. I’m single, don’t know many people here yet, but I’m enjoying the warm ocean, yearround sunshine and still surfing too. My 2 oldest children (Sonni
CLASS NOTES 62 Governor’s
Left and center: Michael Sapuppo ’75 at Everest Base Camp · Right: Pam Post ’75 and future service dog, Eva Jean
and Sara) live in LA and my son (James) is in DC.
Sonni is married with a beautiful 1 ½ year old daughter named Layla—my granddaughter (still can’t believe that)! Both pics in Governor’s are from about a month go when they visited. The picture with 2 pics side by side is kind of cool—shot in the same location 33 years apart, on the left is me with my daughter Sonni about 33 years ago; I guess I was about 29 then. On the right side is me with Sonni’s daughter, my granddaughter, a month ago.
I would love to hear from GDA ’78s down here!
Alexandra Mackay-Smith
Keirstead here, working in Fairfax, VA and living “over the mountain” in Stephens City, VA, with my husband, James, and our
remaining cat, Kix. Close to my aging parents, now almost 94 and 93 and still hanging in there. Lots of family around: two brothers and two sisters nearby, and the other GDA alums (sisters Anne ’75, Helen ’80, and Barbara ’82) visiting as frequently as possible. I’ve been enjoying my work as a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in trauma recovery, especially since moving to this practice, The Pragmatic Therapist(s), a combination of in-person and telehealth, with colleagues in the office. Love the on-the-fly consultation and support.
My husband, James, is still working IT for a federal government contractor, while battling Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer (not the easy one). We are grateful for health insurance to pay for the expensive targeted gene therapy. He is tired, but still with us, and that is a blessing.
Our son, Nicholas, is working for FEMA, and our daughter, Cecilia, is getting paid work in film production, mostly with sound, some with acting. Her husband, Cesar, is preparing for the Maryland real estate licensure exam, so we hope to have them settling near us after they finish rehabbing my in-laws’ former home in Brevard, NC. Love getting the updates from classmates. Visitors are welcome—we have guest rooms!
Alan Leahey: I retired from ophthalmology at end of 2019 and now reside in Vero Beach, FL and spend summer months in Saucon Valley, PA. My wife Kathy and I are having a blast with 3 grandchildren and 2 more on the way. Our three daughters and families live in Orlando, FL, Larchmont, NY and Arlington, VA so it is easy to visit them often. We both enjoy the warmer weather and being able to golf or ride a bike
every day. If any classmates make it to Vero Beach or Saucon Valley, please look me up.
Tom Mathews: I had the great pleasure of working at Amici cellars during the fall harvest. We didn’t pick the grapes but we did everything else at the winery. We put grapes in tanks, we pressed grapes. We put wine from tanks into barrels and did lots of brix and temps to see how the fermentation was progressing. A bucket list adventure for me! But make no mistake, it’s very hard work in the winery! The Amici folks were the best and their wines are fantastic—check them out!!!
Brad Clark: Hard to say sometimes what takes front seat: time away traveling with my wife, Erica Fuller (Gaspé Peninsula), time with friends on motorcycles (with David Drukker and riding friend), time walking fairways, oh, and time serving the good people of Ipswich as a parish clergyman. I do enjoy the proximity of the Govs campus and do enjoy visiting to watch various athletic contests. Classmates in the neighborhood are due for a rendezvous-vous at the Grog or Michael’s. Did someone say “retirement”? That remains an open question, but a fun one to ponder. Grateful for being among the Class of ’78.
’80
Helen Mazarakis
hmazarakis@yahoo.com
Hello class of 1980—amazing to think that we all start hitting the big 60 this year. The years are flying by! Antonio Thomas, sent a note saying, “Hey Helen I hope everything is well with you and your family. I am enjoying retirement after 32 years with the Monmouth County Sheriffs dept. My wife and I are also loving our grandbabies Antonio, Roman, and Remy." The attached photo is of Ant and his beautiful family.
Scott Mason writes “life is good in Raleigh. I am known as North Carolina’s Tar Heel Traveler and wander the state doing feature stories (for WRAL-TV) on people and places—the best job in television! I have worked in television news for almost 40 years. My wife and I have three grown children and usually return to Massachusetts every July.
CLASS NOTES 63 Spring 2023
Top left: Andrew Bendetson ’78 and his granddaughter, Layla · Top right: Alan Leahey ’78 with his wife, Kathy, and grandchildren ·
Bottom left: 2 pictures in same location 33 years apart: Andrew Bendetson ’78 and his daughter and then with his granddaughter ·
Bottom right: Alexandra Mackay-Smith Keirstead ’78 and her husband James at a friend’s wedding in NC mountains
Always glad to keep up with news from the Academy!”
Jim Gardner and his wife Diane have moved back from Ohio to New England. He says, “We now live in Portland, ME. It’s great to be back. And Sally Lee reports that she is living in Danvers, MA “with my three cats, Dominic, Vinney, and Negri. My latest book, Sally O. Lee’s Salon des Refusés (Illustrations) just won first prize in the Art/Photography category in New England and Southern California Book Festivals, and Runner-up in London and LA book festivals in same Art/photography category.
“I’m still at MIT and planning to retire pretty soon and planning to travel a lot with my sister, my travelling buddy. Hope all is well. Cheers.” Congrats, Sally. I have a copy of her book on my coffee table!
And finally, John Fain is feeling those 60 years. He says, “My life is spent waiting. At age 60 I am awaiting the completion of what will probably be my last pair of custom-made cowboy boots. It takes
about a year and a half. Covid is still a thing. Tennis and Pickleball are the only activities I have participated in other than working on my old truck. I am keeping very much to myself and avoiding any indoor activities that involve people. In Texas that is not easy when it is beginning to get hot outside! We are in ‘pre-heat’ mode for July, August and September. So therefore, I am tucked away and dodging the variants. As the youngest of eight children, I must be vigilant, for Nonie Fain, one of my five sisters, has a rare form of leukemia and has been facing it valiantly for years. She has received chemotherapy at MD Anderson Cancer Center here in Houston. Currently she is without an immune system and is awaiting my stem cells. By the time this ‘goes to print’ I will have donated bone marrow from my hips to give her my stem cells. I expect to be sore and bruised but that is the least of the worry. Nonie has been fighting for her life. She has been steadfast and disciplined. She is showered in love by all of us. She has her Australian Cattle Dog, Tuohy, (pronounced 2E) to nip at
everyone’s ankles when they get too close to her. We are praying for a chance to have her healthy again. Prayers are welcomed. As one of my other sisters commented: ‘We are all waiting for our diagnosis.’ So true. Good health to everyone. God is good.”
Doug Leatham was at the reunion —reimagined in 2021—and hopes to make it in 2025. For now he is an empty-nester and is trying to pack up his house in FL to move out west closer to his kids. His big love right now is flight simulation. Doug chairs Team SoCal and will go out to California November 5-12 to join the rest of his team in flying a Boeing 737-800 simulator around the world to raise money for charity. He says, “I was traveling so I didn’t know about it, but I went to the gathering on the lawn. Not only was I the only one there from 1980, but *ANY* year ending in ‘0’ (or ‘5’ for that matter). I guess the off-year thing didn’t go over well.
“In any case, I usually do the “0”s (2000, 2010) so I was disappointed 2020 was canceled, but I’ll break
tradition and come in 2025, I think.”
’81
Kathryn Shilale kathryn@shilale.net
Dave “Brownie” Brown shares: In January I met with Rob Breed and Mike Reilly at the historic Parker House for drinks and lots of laughs.
’83 REUNION
Cat Eveleth catmando_ent@msn.com
Danielle Jacobs dljacobs@aol.com
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
’88 REUNION
Deana Boyages dboyages@msn.com
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
’93 REUNION
Shawn Markey stmarkey58@yahoo.com
Ingrid Cunney icunney@gmail.com
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
Michael Holbrook ’92, Todd Spain ’92, David Costa ’94, John Shea (organizer of event), Bill Batchelder ’91, Archie Seale, Dana Pascucci, John Marcos ’94, Mike Nannis ’94, Shawn Markey, Coach Paul Sullivan, Mark Ferrara and Peter Mooney ’92 gathered this past August at Apple Hill Golf Club. Unfortunately, others were scheduled to attend and called away at the last minute. A great time was had by all remembering the glory days and how formidable those four years on campus were for the lot of us. Hoping to make it an annual tradition so if interested please reach out to Shawn Markey or John Shea for more information about the 2023 outing!
CLASS NOTES 64 Governor’s
Top, L to R: Tom Mathews ’78 enjoying the work at Amici Cellars during the fall harvest · Brad Clark ’78, David Drukker ’78 and riding buddy · Antonio Thomas ’80 and his gorgeous family · Bottom, L to R: Erica Fuller, wife of Brad Clark ’78 at Gaspé Peninsula · Keller Laros ’81 and Steve Perry ’79 meet up to watch Hawaii Prep Water Polo in Kailua-Kona
’96
Scotty Coulon scotty.coulon@gmail.com
Jeff LaBelle labejef@gmail.com
Janna De Risi jannaderisi@hotmail.com
It was great seeing everyone at the combined Reunions for the classes of ’95, ’96, and ’97 last summer! It was really nice to be back in Byfield sharing laughter and smiles with some of my favorite people. The Class of ’96 also had a solid showing in the Pie Race, as Jeff LaBelle and I came in 4th and 5th place! And speaking of Swot, I got to spend some time with him when he recently came to San Diego for a convention. We reminisced about our days back in Eames, and the fun we had playing baseball at GDA.
I also got to hang out with Mat Perry, Chris Coleman, and Scott Grenier. We have created a tradition of heading to Wisconsin every 8 years to watch the Patriots and Packers play at Lambeau. This year’s trip was awesome, even though the Pats lost a heartbreaker in OT. We spent most of our time at Grenier’s lake house, hanging out on his pontoon boat. We also spent some time in the world’s largest grocery store, known as Woodman’s. We were honestly dumbfounded
by the size of this place, and quickly realized that we prefer the Woodman’s on the North Shore, which serves delicious fried clams.
I am also in contact with Carla Gottschall, Janna Panall, and Kate Manzella. Carla is currently living in Switzerland, and wants some people to come visit her. I have been to Switzerland, and it is absolutely amazing. So, she might see me in the near future. Janna and I hung out at Reunion, and have sent some texts back and forth, and we both want the same thing...more get-togethers with GDA friends. Manz is still quite the athlete, and is still crushing marathons. I’m trying to get her out here to SD to take on an Ultra with me. Hopefully that will happen this summer!
And I always enjoy my chats with Aaron Sells, Dan DiPietro, and Bradley Walker. Brad has recently taken over as head chef at a wine bar that is based out of New York City, and hopes to receive a prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand Award this year! Sells is always busy with his consulting in and around Boston, and Danny is currently representing his law firm in a very important case: Gee v. Gonth. So, it’s great to see these guys making a difference in the Northeast. I hope that all of my GDA friends and everyone back in Byfield continues to stay happy and healthy, and I look forward to more correspondence with all of you!
’98 REUNION
Elle Erikson erickson@amsllp.com
Please save the dates of June 9-11, 2023 for the Class of 1998’s 25th Reunion. Our goal is maximum participation, so if you only make one reunion, let it be this one! You can register now and see who else is coming. You can also join our Class of 1998 Facebook Group to start catching up with people now. If you have suggestions for the weekend, please send them our way. The planning group meets monthly and you are also welcome to join those meetings.
Something uniquely special will be taking place at the reunion. Several classmates chipped in to honor Dr. Bradley by naming a new science classroom after him. The classroom is located inside the new Alfond Coastal Research Center, located alongside the Parker River. (Here's a link to learn more about
the Alfond Center https://www. thegovernorsacademy.org/wtccampaign/priorities.) We will host a special dedication on Saturday afternoon before our class dinner. This will be a special opportunity to visit with Dr. Bradley and tour the new center. We are asking all of our classmates to consider contributing toward our class’s reunion class gift of the classroom. Again, our goal is maximum class participation and gifts of all sizes are meaningful. We’ve raised $200,000 toward our $250,000 goal and hope to raise the remaining funds by the reunion.
Daryl Robicsek from the Academy will be following up with everyone in our class about this exciting giving opportunity, so please be on the lookout for that email and consider making a gift. Thank you!
Last but not least, who are you still in touch with? Please pass the reunion info along. Your reunion committee really hopes to see you in Byfield this June.
Jackie Downing
Evan Trent
Missy Walny
Ellie Brown
Eric Blair
David DiCicco
Elle Erickson ’00
Catherine Correia
catherine.correia@gmail.com
2022 has brought many changes for Tania “T” Hamboyan Harrison: “The happiest one is I started a new business, A Cat’s Purrspective, LLC, and started a new profession as a Cat Behavior Consultant. I received associate certification from the
CLASS NOTES 65 Spring 2023
Left: ’96ers at Lambeau Field for Pats game: Scott Grenier, Mat Perry, Chris Coleman, and Scotty Coulon · Right: Scotty Coulon ’96 and Jeff LaBelle ‘96
A gathering of Govs men of the gridiron from the early ’90s this past August at Apple Hill Golf Club. Top row L to R: Michael Holbrook, Todd Spain, David Costa, John Shea (organizer of event), Bill Batchelder, Archie Seale, Dana Pascucci, John Marcos Bottom row L to R: Mike Nannis, Shawn Markey, Coach Paul Sullivan, Mark Ferrara, and Peter Mooney
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and Fear Free. I offer virtual consults and have helped clients from Hawaii all the way to Bulgaria!
“What does a cat behavior consultant do? I help clients work with their cats to resolve or change behaviors that are having a negative effect on the cat’s or people’s lives, such as litter box issues, aggression, etc.
“I’m also on the Board of Directors at Diabetic Cats in Need, which is a national non-profit organization that serves diabetic cats and their low-income owners or shelter/rescue caregivers.
“In personal news, my husband Rob and I celebrated our 18th anniversary this June. We are enjoying our life in Maryland with our cats. Sadly, we did lose two cats this year.”
’03 REUNION
Taso Kapernekas tkap07@gmail.com
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
’04
Lesley Clunie lesley.clunie@gmail.com
Jessica Long writes: Since 2021, I have been living in Washington, DC going to a fellowship at the NIH for pediatric & adolescent gynecology.
I’ll be finishing this year and heading to the University of Chicago as an attending.
Emily (Moore) Maganzini recently had her 4th baby, Griffin Brock Maganzini, on September 14th. Big siblings Jackson, Madison and Tucker are all obsessed with their baby brother. Emily and her husband, Kyle, just completed construction on their forever home, making room for their now complete family of 6.
Hoping the rest of the Class of ’04 is doing well!
’08 REUNION
Abby Shaffo abigail.shaffo@gmail.com
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
Happy 2019! I mean 2023! I always smile a bit while writing these notes because it is such a joy to catch up with my classmates.
Paige (Valchuis) Mroz reports,
“our family celebrated our first Christmas with Baby Robert James Mroz. Born 8/4/22 at Newton Wellesley hospital. The first 5 months have flown by, and I’m most thankful for new mom advice and support from my girl Abby!! It’s been so nice reconnecting.” Congrats Paige and Jamey! I’ve loved navigating motherhood with you!
Hunter Archibald shares, “life is good in Minneapolis, MN. My wife, Laura, is finishing her dermatology residency and I have one more year of otolaryngology residency at the University of Minnesota. We love the lakes and city here, and also our insane cat Willard.”
Jordyne (Dodier) Castonguay shares, “Chelsea just moved back after 11 years in Seattle! She’s living in our neighborhood, we bought a house in the Sloans Lake neighborhood in the fall. Our daughter Dylan is almost 20 months. I’ve been working in tech for the last 3 years and it’s been a blast helping a startup scale. We are enjoying life in Colorado hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and skiing. We’d love to reconnect with anyone passing through town.” Chelsea Dodier reports that she
is “excited to be back in Colorado and spend more time with family & friends from college.”
I was able to have dinner with Coby Newton ’09 in Seattle right before I moved while he was there for a work trip. It was great to catch up with him.” We’re happy to see our favorite twins back together!
Speaking of Colorado adventures, Matt Kotzen shared a fun photo of “Kaya and I floating the river with gov’s alum Kevin Sullivan ’09 in Steamboat this summer.”
2022 was a year of family, travel and keeping up with Baby George for me (Abby Shaffo) and my husband John. We enjoyed our year in Newport, Rhode Island and caught up with a few Govs friends, including Emily Doggett, who moved back to the Boston area from London, and Charlotte DiMaggio, who continues to travel the world working as a nurse and chasing adventure. The Navy is sending us back to beautiful O’ahu in early 2023, where John will serve his next active duty tour and I will continue serving in the Navy Reserve, offering Pilates lessons and finishing my
CLASS NOTES 66 Governor’s
Tania “T” Hamboyan Harrison ’00 with a special friend
Clockwise from left: Emily (Moore) Maganzini ’04 and her family of six · Jamey Mroz, Robert Valchuis P’08, Lauren Valchuis, Paige (Valchuis) Mroz ’08 and baby Robert Mroz, son of Page (Valchuis) Mroz · Matt Kotzen ’08 and fur baby Kaya · Jordyne (Dodier) Castonguay ’08 and her family
masters in Defense and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College. Most of all, we are looking forward to teaching George to surf (maybe we’ll focus on walking first)! Also, I plan to continue to live vicariously through Anna Smith’s instagram stories as she continues her travel nursing adventure in Alaska. Cheers, ’08 crew and greater GOVs community!
’09
Hannah Hines hannah.f.hines@gmail.com
Jimmy King jamesmking41@gmail.com
Will Kavanaugh shares: Nearly 17 years to the day since John BanisterMarx said I needed to “play fewer video games and focus on studies because games will never pay the bills,” I’ve earned my first credit as a professional game developer with
the release of Shankstars, a fantasy golf role-playing game from Topgolf Media. I’m now in my 7th year in the gaming industry, including stints with Amazon-owned Curse Media and Fandom, and the bills get paid in full. ’11
Nora Kline nora.k.kline52@gmail.com
Katie Reilly katiemacreilly@gmail.com
Michelle Gallipeau and Mike DiFrancesco ’10 got married at Turner Hill in Ipswich, MA on August 20, 2022. They were surrounded by many Govs alumni! Haley Gould started a new job as an account executive at Ironclad this past summer. Hannah Rochman passed her boards and is officially a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)! Skylar Kline
(formerly Skylar Frisch) moved to Marblehead, MA with her husband, Josh, and their dog, Moose.
As for us, Nora got married at Boston Public Library on September 2, 2022. She is currently a doctoral student in clinical psychology. Katie is working as a staff writer at Time magazine.
’12
John Damianos john.damianos94@gmail.com
Audrey Rey audreypcheney@gmail.com
After six years of working in Admission/Visitor Services at Merrimack College, Sara Bird started a new job in September at the Brooks School! Sara is the Assistant Director of Alumni Programs and coaching JV volleyball at Brooks (her team enjoyed
the fact that they played on the same court Sara played on “soooo long ago” when they had a recent away game at Govs). Sara is loving being back in the ISL world...but admits it took a couple weeks to adjust to wearing green on the sidelines instead of red!
’13 REUNION
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
’18 REUNION
Eni Owoeye waterstos@gmail.com
Reunite with classmates, faculty, and friends during a weekend filled with activities for alumni and families of all ages.
WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!
CLASS NOTES DEADLINE
Please send your news and updates for each issue before the deadlines below to either your class secretary or classnotes@govsacademy.org.
Fall issue: June 15
Spring issue: January 15
CLASS NOTES GUIDELINES
Governor’s, The Archon magazine, may edit class notes for clarity and brevity, and to match the magazine’s editorial style. Class secretaries may also choose to edit submissions. To respect the privacy of our alumni, we do not publish engagement or pregnancy announcements. Wedding and birth announcements will continue to be featured in class notes and photos. These notes are intended for The Governor’s Academy and are not to be used elsewhere.
CLASS NOTES 67 Spring 2023
Top left: Jordyne Castonguay ’08 and her daughter Dylan · Top right: Abby Shaffo ’08 and her family in the Dolomites · Bottom left: Michelle (Gallipeau) DiFrancesco ’11 and Mike DiFrancesco ’10 in front of the Little Red Schoolhouse · Bottom right, back row, L to R: Victoria Caruso ’11, Claire Lilly ’11, Hannah Rochman ’11, Skylar (Frisch) Kline ’11, Haley Gould ’11; Front row, L to R: Chrissy Toomey ’11, Tyler Epstein (Nora’s husband), Nora Kline ’11, Michelle (Gallipeau) DiFrancesco ’11, Mike DiFrancesco ’10
Dr. Quimby cheers on the Girls Varsity Hockey team at practice.
Photographer Tom Kates used strobe lighting to suspend the skaters in time as they sped by Dr. Quimby.
Letter from Dr. Quimby
Peter H. Quimby, PhD ’85, P’14 Head of School
Illustration: Zofia Chamienia for ArtistsForClimate.org
A look back to Reunion 2018 (L to R): Greg Rose ’78, Leslie Lafond ’78, P’05, Tom Driscoll ’78, P’13,’16
