Skip to main content

Fall/Winter 2015 Bulletin

Page 1

Bullet覺n The Kiski School

Leadership for the 21 st Century: A Campaign for Kiski is paving the way for growth and success

2015 A Year in Review


FROM THE HEADMASTER 2015-2016 Board of TrusTees

K

Dear Friends, Kiski enjoyed tremendous advancements in 2015, thanks in a large part to the loyal support and unprecedented generosity of many of the people who are reading this letter. On behalf of all the students and teachers, I offer my sincere thanks for all you do for Kiski. Just 12 months ago, we were in the middle of the largest building project we have ever undertaken – the renovation of and addition to our athletic complex. In late October, hundreds of patrons gathered on campus for the opening and dedication of the Ross Athletic Center. This 75,000 square foot facility has had a transformational impact on our campus. We have also completed a number of smaller capital improvement projects with campaign funding, all of which have greatly enhanced the functionality and aesthetic value of our physical plant, including a handsome new entryway and guardhouse. Kiski is now entering the final phase of our five-year, $27 million capital campaign, Leadership for the 21 st Century, which was formally launched in 2012. To date, we are 85 percent to our goal. The final funding phase will allow us to complete the remaining components of our campaign, including the renovation and addition to Vlahos dormitory and the conversion of Kalnow Hall into a new Science and Engineering Center. Several other high-impact campus improvement projects will be funded by the campaign, including the construction of new faculty housing units, the renovation of the Dining Hall facility, upgrades to Sheesley Hall dormitory, and the replacement of lights and rigging in Rogers Fine Arts Center. To be sure, all of these improvements to Kiski’s physical plant only provide an attractive setting for our most important work: educating the young men in our care. Over the past decade, Kiski has energetically established itself as a leader in boys’ education, with a renewed emphasis on this objective following a comprehensive audit of our academic program last year. New courses like our Entrepreneurship Elective and our Freshmen Science-Technology-Engineering-Arts-Mathematics (STEAM) class, together with other recent initiatives such as our Leadership and Character Development Program, have helped to shape a dynamic educational experience, thoughtfully conceived around “best teaching practices” for boys. The key to our success is that we have never lost sight of our priority: to know each boy as an individual and to guide all of our students towards lives as successful men. Past planning activities, including four strategic plans and two campus master plans, have enabled Kiski to take giant strides forward. Titled, Kiski Then Forever, and published last summer, our new strategic plan was developed through months of collaborations with key stakeholders. As our plan was being created, a coherent theme emerged, one focused on helping our boys develop the global credentials and skills needed for success and leadership in the 21st Century. It’s an ambitious vision for Kiski’s bright future, and we look forward to partnering with you as we work to achieve the goals and initiatives outlined. This is my 20th year as a member of the Kiski faculty and my 14th as headmaster. These years have been the most rewarding of my life because they have afforded me the opportunity to work with so many remarkable people – students, parents, faculty, and staff. The level of engagement and sense of shared purpose we have witnessed from our constituents is at an all-time high. Without question, this remarkable commitment will propel Kiski forward as we continue on a positive trajectory into the future. With all good wishes,

Chris Brueningsen Headmaster

John W. Jacob ‘89 Chairman M. Dean Mosites ’72 Vice Chairman T. Robert Boulware ‘82 Christopher A. Brueningsen, Headmaster David C. Conrad II ‘85 David S. DeSimone ‘93 Robert A. Gleason Jr. ‘57 Dr. Elizabeth W. Hazel Amy Hepler Michael W. Hoag ‘80 Harry L. Holmes ‘64 Robert S. Jamison Jr. ‘64 Carl Kalnow ‘68 Gregory L. Lignelli ‘95 James P. Moore Jr. ‘71 David D. Osikowicz Scott E. Phillips ‘70 Marc B. Robertshaw ‘72 Kristofer Rockwell ‘ 90 Paul W. Siker ’79 Thomas B. Sturges III ‘63 Christine J. Toretti Isaac Tripp IV ‘70 Alexis Tsaggaris Thomas Usher

Trustee emeriti Russell C. Swank III ’67 Michael Yukevich Jr. ‘60 Published by The Kiski School Saltsburg, Pennsylvania Phone: 724.639.3586 fax: 724.639.8467 email: communications@kiski.org Website: www.kiski.org

ediTor Denise Bender Klavon

ediTorial Board Sandra Acquard William W. Ellis Jr. Megan Neumeister Mark Novom Craig Olear Darcie Spahn Steven T. Szilagyi ’88 Mark Rhodehamel Michael Yukevich Jr. ‘60

ConTriBuTors Sandra Acquard Jalon Cooper ’16 Tracy Haswell Robinson Howard Tim Johnston Timothy Lewis ’72 Mark Rhodehamel Thomas Rubino ‘17 Chris Spahn Darcie Spahn

PhoTograPhers Rob Bygrave ’70 Craig Olear Viglione Photography Additional photos provided by The Kiski School faculty, staff, coaches, students, and parents. Class note photos submitted by alumni.


INSIDE

The Kiski School Bulletin I A Year in Review

On the Cover New Entrance To The Kiski School

Features

Departments

2 Ross Athletic Center

26 Academic News

8 Expanding Academics

31 Campus News

12 Strategic Plan

32 Faculty and Staff News

14 Graduation

34 Athletic News

24 Luminary

38 Advancement and Fundraising News

Robert Johnston ’51

52 Class Notes 55 Memorials

The Kiski School, a non-profit educational institution in Saltsburg, Pennsylvania, owns The Kiski School Bulletin. The number of copies per issue mailed from Pennsylvania and distributed by carriers is 6,000.

The Kiski School admits students of any race, color, sexual orientation, nationality, or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at The Kiski School. The administration does not discriminate on the basis of color, sexual orientation, nationality, or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarships and loan programs, athletics, and other school-administered programs.

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

1


Kiski unveils its new $8.3 Million

Ross Athletic Center Phase II of The Kiski School’s Leadership for the 21 st Century: A Campaign for Kiski will be culminating in 2016 with a total of $27 million raised. The capstone of the campaign was building the $8.3 million Ross Athletic Center. The grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony was held October 24, 2015, during Homecoming Weekend. The new indoor Ross Athletic Center is the final major capital renovation project in what has become a tenyear campus renovation plan and capital raising program. The 75,000 square foot athletic center includes a multi-use indoor training area, known to the boys and faculty as the multiuse gym or MUG. This gym is used for training on those days of unfortunate Western Pennsylvania weather for soccer, lacrosse, tennis, and baseball. The new weight and cardio training rooms are complete with new weights and equipment. In addition, there has been a total renovation of the existing basketball, wrestling, and swimming areas. The Ross Athletic Center

2

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

houses athletic department offices and meeting rooms and features major upgrades to locker and equipment rooms, storage areas, as well as a satellite bookstore and concession stand. The Ross Athletic Center’s façade keeps with the traditional Kiski campus-wide appearance, but the inside is floor-to-ceiling windows, giving a modern, bright environment conducive to exercising. In 2013, Kiski constructed the Carroll “Beano” Cook Memorial Outdoor Athletic Complex, the Donald H. Jones Stadium, and the Orr Track and Field. The cost of the entire athletic project has totaled $10 million. Chairman of Kiski’s Board of Trustees and 1989 Kiski alumnus John W. Jacob stated, “The remaking of our indoor athletic center is truly our capstone renovation project. It is the crowning achievement of the current campus master plan. The Ross Athletic Center allows Kiski to complete what has been a decade of campuswide renewal and an exciting time of revival for the School. We all look forward to using the center for our students, faculty, and staff.”

Headmaster Christopher A. Brueningsen said, “The Ross Athletic Center reflects our dedication to the high standards at Kiski. We believe the concepts of team work, sportsmanship, perseverance, and hard work toward a common goal, as learned through athletic competition, are invaluable lessons Kiski graduates carry with them for the rest of their lives. The Ross Athletic Center is needed to further strengthen the educational experience at the School as all Kiski boys are required to participate in a sport during each season of the year. The expanded and renovated year-round indoor Ross Athletic Center will enhance the opportunities for all of our students to become even more involved at the School and with our strong athletic programs.” Director of Athletics Christopher Spahn said, “This is a new chapter in an already wellstoried athletic history. The students are enjoying the new space.” Head Prefect, Zachary Muster ’16 said, “This building is unbelievable. I see guys using the facility all the time.”


Kiski’s last major campaign concluded in 2009 and raised money to support the initial phase of the School’s campus improvement plan which featured the renovation and expansion of two major dormitories, the renovation of the main classroom building, Heath S. Clark Hall, and upgrades made to the Rogers Fine Arts Center. These improvements were followed by the construction of the $3.8 million Swank Student Center.

Associate Headmaster for Institutional Advancement, Steven T. Szilagyi ’88, stated, “Our current capital campaign, Leadership for the 21 st Century being co-chaired by Russell C. Swank III ’67 and Sandy Mellon, has a total goal of $27 million which we expect to reach and exceed in 2016. The Ross Athletic Center is the School’s capstone building project. We remain thankful to our generous trustees, alumni, parents, and friends of the School because their

strategic investments in these projects have allowed our students and faculty to directly benefit from this exciting time of rejuvenation and growth at Kiski.” Kiski recently added safety features to campus including a new entrance and a manned security guardhouse. Several other additional projects have been completed including expansion and renovation of MacColl Hall, now a modern and energy-efficient dormitory incorporating a “living laboratory” for the study of energy consumption. Kiski also renovated the outdoor swimming pool, basketball court, and tennis courts and added new kitchen and dining hall equipment. New funding to support the arts, the technology program, the sciences, the leadership and entrepreneurial studies programs, the financial aid program, and the School’s endowment have also been the focus of our recent campaign.

A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held during Homecoming festivities on October 24, 2015

3


?

What the students are saying about the new Ross Athletic Center WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ROOM IN THE NEW ROSS ATHLETIC CENTER? “The weight room because there is more room and it opens up a lot of possibilities for every athlete to train.” – Quinn Commandant ’17

“The Jacob Gymnasium because I get to play basketball with my friends in a place that is so nice. We can be playing basketball while groups are playing different sports on the other side because it is such a large space.” – Prefect, Xavier Jemison ’17

“The weight room is a huge upgrade from what I am used to because of the amount of equipment and possibilities within.” –Jason Strange ’17

“The Varsity Locker Rooms because they look like professional locker rooms. It puts me in a great mindset as I get ready to take the field.” – Connor Dent ’18

“The multi-use gym (MUG) because there was not a place to play indoor soccer, and the surface is great because you don’t slide everywhere.” – Alex Arceo ’17

4

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review


?

What the students are saying about the new Ross Athletic Center WHY ARE YOU EXCITED?

THANK YOU To Everyone Who Made the Building a Reality! The following are Ross Athletic Center named spaces: n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Samuel B. Ross II ’62 and Susan Storck Ross – Indoor Athletic Center Robert B. Brown ’46 and Sarah Squire Brown – Fieldhouse The Robert & Mary Ann Jacob Foundation and John Jacob ’89 – Multi-Use Gym The McCutcheon Family – Natatorium Kevin Kutz ’73 and members of the Class of 1970 – Fitness Center The Rockwell Family – Plaza The Hoag Family – Gymnasium David and Deborah Osikowicz – Athletic Hall of Fame Thomas Sturges ’63 and Family – Team Meeting Room Robert ’64 and Lynda Jamison – Coaches’ Meeting Room Clyde “Terry” Slease ’62 – Varsity Locker Room #1 Friends of Robert Johnston ’51 – Coaches’ Locker Room Greg Lignelli ’95 and Family – School Store Greg Lignelli ’95 and Family – Snack Bar Kyle ’86 and Allison Webb – Auxiliary Locker Room

In addition to the Ross Athletic Center, the following donors contributed to the Outdoor Athletic Complex. n n n

“The new Ross Athletic Center is a great addition to our campus. Not only is it going to be a hub for student activity, but it will generate better student participation in our community. I believe the best asset of the facility is the new film room. It has allowed Kiski teams to have meetings and review for games and practices right outside of their locker room with no transition period between information sessions and games or practices. The students are providing outstanding feedback about the new athletic facility space. Not only are they raving about the new weight room area, but also the space provided by the new MUG. Athletes can play basketball, lacrosse, and soccer all at the same time. I always see plenty of guys in it. I think the space will draw prospective students and athletes to our School. There is an amazing view of it from the road that catches your eye when you drive past campus. Having a space like this available for high school students is truly amazing. The new Ross Athletic Center provides many things that the old fieldhouse didn't, including a much larger weight room, an indoor track for runners, and locker rooms that allow for better team chemistry as well as isolation and safety for the gear that we all spend so much money on.” – Head Prefect, Zachary Muster ’16

“The new Athletic Center is exciting because it helps us to be the best athletes possible. We train better and if we get injured we can get better medical attention in the training room.” – Manuel Palma-Diaz ’18

Carroll H. Cook ’49 – Outdoor Athletic Center Donald H. Jones – Athletic Stadium Joseph Orr ’75 and Family – Track and Field The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

5


Class of 2015 Third Class of Kiski Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees On Friday, October 23, 2015, Kiski held an Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony for its third class of inductees. There are many distinguished athletes and teams that have been a part of Kiski’s strong athletic tradition, which has made selecting the first three classes of inductees a difficult task. The individuals, teams, and coaches honored, represented Kiski with class, dignity, and a spirit of athletic excellence.

James reich • Class of 1982 James Reich, class of 1982, graduated from Kiski as one of the most accomplished wrestlers in the School’s storied wrestling program. Mr. Reich served as the team’s co-captain his senior year. He finished his Kiski career with a record of 65-0, 55 of those victories coming by pin. Mr. Reich won National Prep Championships in ’81 and ’82, while also being named an All-American his senior year. He continued his successful wrestling career at The United States Naval Academy where he graduated in 1986.

robert d. Johnston • Class of 1951 Robert “Bob” Johnston graduated from Kiski in 1951. He was an incredible baseball player for Kiski. After a stellar career at Allegheny College, he returned to coach and teach at Kiski. He excelled in both realms and is fondly remembered by all of the Kiski boys that he taught and coached. He was a beloved faculty member from 19591969. He served the School with tremendous loyalty and dedication, and his work as a coach and mentor was a significant part of his contribution at Kiski. “Big Otis,” as he was fondly referred to by his students, coached the Varsity Baseball Team as an assistant coach (’60-’65) and as head coach (’66-’69). “He inspired athletes with the same disciplined passion he applied to his history students, and we all benefited from his powerful influence on our lives,” declared two of his former students in a letter commemorating Coach Johnston.

harry stuhldreher • Class of 1921 Harry Stuhldreher graduated from Kiski in 1921. He enjoyed great success at Kiski before moving onto college at the University of Notre Dame where he was a member of the legendary “Four Horsemen” backfield and the starting quarterback from 1922-1924. He led Notre Dame to an undefeated season in 1924 and the National Championship. Mr. Stuhldreher went on to become the head football coach at Villanova University, 1925-1935, and then the University of Wisconsin, 1936-1948. In 1958, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

T. robert Boulware • Class of 1982 T. Robert Boulware, class of 1982, was a member of the Varsity Cross Country and Track and Field Teams for four years. In 1982 he was elected co-captain of the Track and Field Team and broke Bob Mathias’ long jump record with a jump of 22’ 6.5.’’ In addition to his holding the long jump record, he has the sixth fastest time in the 300 meter hurdles and the tenth fastest time in the 110-meter high hurdles. Mr. Boulware continued his track career at Pennsylvania State University where he continued to excel in Track and Field.

6

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

1969 Varsity soccer Team head Coach: Tamas Szilagyi assistant Coaches: Clifford Brett and Saloman Murciano The 1969 Soccer Team was outstanding defensively which was evident by its six shutouts. This team recorded the first two victories in the programs history in Interstate Prep School League play. The first win came against league rival Western Reserve Academy in a stunning 2-0 victory on Parents’ Day, and the second against Cranbrook School, 2-0 in the season finale. The 1969 team will always be remembered as the team that laid the foundation for Kiski Soccer’s future successes. Team members: Wally Al-Gharabally, Fahed Al-Zayed, Ed Becker, Robert Blake, David Boesel, Bill Borden, Duncan Bowman, Bill Brown, Woody Danforth, Rich Duda, Len Eisenbeis, Gregg Fowles, Pete Friesell, Timothy Gazda, Bill Gephardt, Penn Graham, Jack Hamill, Abdul Ibrahim, Coltart King, Kevin Knee, Mark Knee, Lou Lommasson, Pino Marinelli, Wally Mehdi, Rich Miller, Bruce Posner, Dave Saalfield, Joe Siciliano, John Timmermann, and James Trice.

The 1989 Varsity Baseball Team head Coach: Lee Crawford assistant Coach: Charles Shepard The 1989 Baseball Team won the Interstate Prep School League I.P.S.L. Championship. Through their exceptional leadership, head coach, Lee Crawford, and assistant coach, Charles Shepard inspired and guided them to an overall record of 16-2 including a perfect 6-0 record in the league. Led by tri-captains Thad Kresho, Sean Fuellhart and Bill Hess, the team excelled in all phases of the game: excellent starting pitching, quality relievers, an explosive offense, and sound defensive play. Team members: Bill Carrera, Chris Chada, John Chen, Allen Cook, Sean Dewey, Dan Frieburger, Sean Fuellhart, Bill Hess, Greg Hammerton, Curtis Hill, Steve Horn, Charles Kresho, Thad Kresho, Lee Potter, Bryan Repko, Matt Repko, David Schattauer and Chad Snyder.


Class of 2014 Second Class of Kiski Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees James lafayette Marks • Class of 1903 James Lafayette Marks graduated from Kiski in 1903. He became the head football coach in 1914 and over the next 24 years established a legacy unrivaled by any high school football coach of that era. Many National Press sports writers considered Coach Marks the most successful high school coach in the United States during those two decades. In 1917, his team was voted the United States Prep School Champion.

James lafayette Marks Jr. • Class of 1933 James Lafayette Marks Jr. graduated from Kiski in 1933 and took over the reins as head football coach from his father, James Marks in 1939 and coached until 1956. Coach Marks continued the excellence Kiski football had come to represent since the early 1900s. Like his father, he coached many Kiski graduates who went on to play college football.

The 1981 Varsity soccer Team Coaches: John Meehl, Mark Orsatti, and Tamas Szilagyi

John a. Pidgeon John A. Pidgeon was appointed Headmaster of The Kiski School in 1957 and retired in 2002. During his 45-year tenure, Mr. Pidgeon served Kiski boys in many different capacities. He was well-known as the head coach of Kiski’s powerhouse swim teams, but he also coached football, tennis, track, and cross country. Mr. Frank Boyden, Mr. Pidgeon’s friend and mentor wrote, “Jack Pidgeon is a far-looking, ambitious person, and if hard work can produce the results you want, he will gladly supply that.”

Charles l. Klausing Charles L. Klausing was the Head Football Coach at Kiski from 19871993. During his tenure, Coach Klausing rejuvenated the football program and led his teams to three I.P.S.L. Championships in 1987, 1990, and 1993. Coach Klausing is also one of the winningest coaches in the history of college football and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

The 1969 Varsity Cross Country Team Coaches: John A. Pidgeon, Robert Gastel, and Peter Ream This team led by Head Coach John A. Pidgeon will long be remembered as the first team to capture the I.P.S.L. Championship. The team completed an undefeated season and also captured the School’s first Westmoreland County Championship. The team’s talented runners broke several course records that season. This was attributed to the team’s steadfast mental and physical preparation. Team members: Buddy Barron, Joe Blake, Woody Coffman, David Jackson, James Lewis, Tim Lewis, Bill Pioli, Jeff Sugden, Dirk Tacke, and Jeff Wieser.

The 1981 Varsity Soccer Team through fine coaching and immense team effort, compiled an overall record of 13-4. The team’s success brought new attention to the soccer program and strengthened Kiski’s unyielding athletic tradition. The team set School records for victories in a season with 13 and goals in a season with 59. Head Coach, Mr. John Meehl, had high aspirations before the season began and was not disappointed by this group of hard working young men. Team members: John Bezich, Bruce Brown, George Davison, Bill Gardner, Carl Harbert, Jim Harsh, Ken Kimball, Steve Levin, Scott Levy, Bill Lewis, Chris Lingafelter, Bryan Madden, Scott Mancabelli, Terry Remaley, Shawn Rodgers, Scott Segesdy, Bob Sheesley, Craig Spitzer, John Stroup, Tim Waite, Marc Weaver, and Chris Young.

The 1983 Varsity Wrestling Team Coaches: Michael Brown and Bruce Hilt The 1982-83 Varsity Wrestling Team will be remembered as the first Kiski team to capture the I.P.S.L. Championship. The team was undefeated in league competition and finished the season with an overall record of 15-2-2. Head Coach Michael Brown credited the team’s success to their hard work and diligence in practice and in the weight room, allowing this group of fine young men to reach heights no Kiski Wrestling Team had ever accomplished. Team members: Steve Capuano, Chris Corradini, Marc Eisen, Mike Eisen, Joe Garcia, Adam Gardner, Andrew Higgs, Chris Lingafelter, Jon Lockhart, Thomas Ramoino, Thomas Reich, James Steptock, Craig Spitzer, Chris Stein, Dave Troy, Peter Volas, Lex Winans, and Scott Yocca.

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

7


Kiski Expands Academic Classes Featuring

T

Kiski opened its Innovation Lab in Heath Hall in fall of 2015. This 1,000 square foot makerspace provides tools for real-world, experiential learning. Teachers from all disciplines may take students to the makerspace to work on projects as part of their curriculum. Led by Assistant Headmaster for Academics, Tracy Haswell, teachers from across disciplines. Craig Olear, Brian Chappie, Andy Scott ’85, and Kim Conover-Loar, collaborated during the summer preparing the space for students.

8

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

A faculty “maker” team is working together through the school year bringing the Innovation Lab training and programming to faculty, staff, and students. The Innovation Lab is rich with technology and tools including: a 3D printer, laser cutter, CNC router, Sprout HP computers, green screen, a large format poster printer, band saw, drill press, and a full complement of tools, benches, and workspaces. The space allows students to prototype, make models, solve problems, and create original inventions. Students utilize the space to make air-powered cars, laser cut originally designed rockets and planes, create luminaries, construct mouse trap cars and other hands-on projects. Adobe Illustrator, Autodesk Inventor, and Corel Draw are several graphic design and CAD programs students learn to use in the makerspace. The Innovation Lab is where the new freshmen course, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) is conducted. Ms. Haswell designed the

course bringing innovation to life. Tools such as the laser cutter and 3D printer are integrated into the traditional study of science explaining Newton’s Laws of Motion. Students use Adobe Illustrator and the laser cutter to make emblems for their soap box cars that they race measuring velocity and acceleration. Students are so excited about the projects they come in at night and on the weekends to work on them. “They forget that they are learning while they are working on projects or performing labs they have designed themselves,” said Ms. Haswell. The Innovation Lab is also home to Kiski’s entrepreneurial course, Inventionland Institute. In this course students produce original inventions and learn to market, package, and sell their products. The semester-long course meets in the makerspace where students use the tools to make unique products that are presented to Inventionland’s “Shark Tank” panel at the end of the semester.


T

STEAM

A Blend of Traditional and Project-Based Learning

The STEAM course teaches students foundational science to pass exams while also providing them experience in critical thinking and real-world applications. The tools available in the makerspace help students learn to use modern technology. “The idea for this course is to set a firm foundation for all the courses that will follow. We offer a great blend of traditional and project-based instruction grounded in the principles which are integrated in such a way that the students can’t help but remember,” said Ms. Haswell. In addition to important foundational science and presentation skills, STEAM teaches technological literacy, creativity, and prototyping. Students are introduced to graphic design and CAD applications and use these tools along with the laser cutter, 3D printer, and CNC router for projects. Students learn these skills in ninth grade, but are able to apply them to real-word situations throughout their entire Kiski education. Kiski STEAM is designed for our boys with their learning needs in mind. We believe this will promote success and give students a solid background in science and problem solving as they make their way through high school and prepare for college. The benefits of project and solution-based learning are endless.

Science, Technology, and Innovation

9


I

inventionland institute Partnership enhances Project-based learning

In other curriculum development, The Kiski School and George M. Davison III ’82, Founder and CEO of Inventionland, have partnered and created an entrepreneurial class called Inventionland Institute. Students work through the Davison method of inventing – from brainstorming to patent research, to product development and marketing. Each student or student team creates an invention/product and, then in a “Shark Tank” environment, presents their product to a panel of business leaders.

10

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

Experiential and project-based learning with an emphasis on 21st century skills are woven into the fabric of Kiski. Inventionland Institute curriculum designed by CEO, George M. Davison III ’82, executive Nathan Field, and their colleagues, allows Kiski students to bring their entrepreneurial ideas together to create an innovative, hands-on learning experience. The students tour Inventionland and witness the process from start to finish. After they complete the work at Kiski, they return to Inventionland at the end of the course to pitch their newly designed products. Students work in the Kiski Mac Computer Lab for the entire semester. They use Adobe Creative Suite as well as AutoDesk Fusion 360 – a software program allowing them to actually create 3D model designs of their inventions and print on the 3D printers. Students produce promotional materials from package design to a 30-second television commercial showing their product. The Inventionland Institute experience culminates with a “Shark Tank” presentation at Inventionland. This past spring, five groups of students pitched their inventions to the panel, answered questions, and premiered their infomercials. Panelists included George M. Davison III ’82, CEO of Inventionland, and Class Captain for The Kiski School; D. Thompson Jones ’79, Managing Director of Draper Triangle Ventures, and Board of Trustee member for The Kiski School; Kristofer Rockwell ’90 CEO of Impact Games, and Board of Trustee member for The Kiski School; and Nathan Field, Inventionland Executive. Students were challenged to make a simple, practical invention that solved a problem or made a task easier. Ideation, research, prototyping, engineering, patent research, and marketing are skills that Kiski’s 2015 Inventionland Institute senior students worked to master. Using innovative tools like CAD software to aid with 3D printing, as well as graphics and video software, students took their ideas and collaborated individually or in teams to make their concepts a reality. The “Shark Tank” winning team was comprised of James Burke ’15, Alena Henderson ’15, and Isaiah Cofield ’15. Their invention was called the EZraser. This team recognized the everyday problem that exists in their classrooms – the erasers for whiteboards are inadequate and inefficient and they often get lost or misplaced. They researched ways to clean the board more effectively. During their research they found existing products were complicated and expensive. The team knew that even though technology advances daily with digital white boards and tablets that project, the whiteboard is still the standard throughout the education and business worlds. Their newly designed product can be implemented instantly, no training, and no installation required. Their dry erase marker contains industrial strength magnets that attach their extralong erasers to the board, allowing them to be there when you need them. The extra-length in the eraser also saves time on cleaning the board. All of the teams gave excellent presentations and it was hard for the panel to decide on the best project, but in the end, the EZraser captured the judges’ decision as the most investible product.


K The

Bigger Picture for science, Technology, and innovation

Kiski is proposing a Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation which is an important “next step” as Kiski continues to develop its role as a national leader in secondary school boys’ education. As experts in teaching boys, Kiski knows that it is important for all of our students to develop their 21st century, real world skills: collaboration, critical thinking, and an ability to create prototypes and test innovative solutions. This Center along with classrooms in Heath Hall, will provide state-of-the-art science laboratories and technology space. Our new science laboratories will be complete with all of the latest technology in each core discipline (Biology, Physics, Chemistry, STEAM, and Robotics) and provide space for students to perform indepth experiments as well as room for students to collaborate on projects. This Center is an essential element in Kiski’s goal to send our students into college and work environments that don’t just require them to succeed on a standardized test, but need for them to be able to ask questions and develop creative solutions. The new Center will include, along with the traditional science facilities, larger innovation spaces that can be used by the entire School. Interdisciplinary projects that involve two or more classes will be able to use the larger spaces in our Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation to explore a project with a multidimensional lens. The exploration of sound in physics can become a cross-disciplinary project in which students work with their physics

teacher, art teacher, and music teacher to design functional instruments such as a guitar. History students can examine and recreate early villages in Mesopotamia, while the science class makes models of the water system and delves into the importance of water starting at the molecular level. The possibilities are endless, but the construction of a Center for Science Technology and Innovation at Kiski will make these possibilities a reality. n

11


Kiski Then Forever – The 2015 strategic Plan

T

The School created a new strategic plan after completing ones in 2003, 2007 and 2011. The evolution of this document began in 2013 when Kiski engaged in a comprehensive review of all sectors of school life during a year-long-self-study process in preparation for our review for our ten-year accreditation. During our formal accreditation review in 2014, a group of visiting educators set forth commendations and recommendations for the School. The self-study report along with the group’s recommendations laid the groundwork for our new strategic plan. Subsequent surveys, interviews, and focus groups with key constituents – faculty, staff, administration, parents, students, alumni, and trustees – led to the significant set of initiatives that formed the basis for our plan. This plan will help ensure Kiski’s growth and success. Over several months committees worked on initiatives addressing various

elements of school operations, such as academic, athletic, and residential life programs and establishing objectives around Enrollment and Marketing, Facilities and Campus Planning, Fundraising, and Finance. The 2015 Strategic Plan, Kiski Then Forever was mailed this past summer to everyone in Kiski’s database. If for some reason, you did not receive a 2015 Strategic Plan and would like one, please request one by calling Denise Bender Klavon, Communications Director, at 724-6398019 or emailing, denise.klavon@kiski.org. Below is the Implementation Schedule for our new strategic plan initiatives. This gives a timeframe of when we would like to complete the initiatives, the department(s) in charge of overseeing the initiative, and the relative cost of each initiative.

DATE

COST OPERATIONS CAMPAIGN

RESPONSIBILITY

aCadeMiC eXCellenCe Comprehensively evaluate and refine Kiski’s academic program through internal review and peer school benchmarking with a focus on the curricular expectations of competitive colleges and universities.

Winter 2017

Supplement and enhance our academic offerings to allow students to practice design and creation, project-based learning, specialization, collaborative activities, and entrepreneurial ventures.

Fall 2017

Revise the daily schedule and school calendar to better accommodate innovative new teaching methods and to support a wider variety of academic and co-curricular programming.

Spring 2016

Secure additional funding to expand professional development opportunities so that our faculty and staff can regularly engage in training on cutting-edge educational technology, best practices for teaching boys, experiential learning, diversity, and differentiated instruction.

Winter 2018

Continue to promote the Fine Arts as a valuable course of study and supply the financial resources needed to ensure that art facilities are appropriately furnished and equipped.

Spring 2018

Assoc HM & Asst HM for Academics $

Asst HM for Academics Assoc HM

$

$$

Dean of Faculty & Headmaster

$$

Asst HM for Academics & Headmaster

BeYond The ClassrooM Continue to develop a comprehensive student orientation program that introduces students to residential and academic life at Kiski with a focus on intellectual, creative, cultural, and social growth. Develop additional mechanisms for supporting students during times of academic and personal challenges through improved referral protocols and additional training programs for faculty and staff. Implement new programs aimed at improving student well-being by promoting the value of healthy living and providing access to fitness experts who are experienced in developing young athletes.

Summer 2016

Assoc HM & Dean of Students

Fall 2016

Assoc HM & Dean of Students

Winter 2017

Create a team of faculty and staff dedicated to providing academic and social support for our international students.

Spring 2016

Maintain Kiski’s position as a leader in educational technology through research, funding, and ongoing training to ensure that related programs and infrastructure remain strong and robust.

Spring 2018

12

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

$

Assoc HM & Athletic Director Asst HM for Academics

$

$$

Dir of Technology & Headmaster


Implementation Schedule COST KEY $ = under $100,000

$$ = $100,000– $1,000,000

$$$ = over $1,000,000

DATE

COST OPERATIONS CAMPAIGN

RESPONSIBILITY

learning To lead Expand Kiski’s Leadership and Character Development Program through connections to academic programs and additional opportunities for class trips, community service, and thematic school assemblies. Add new elements to our Residential Life Curriculum that emphasize personal responsibility, self-awareness, and respect for differences. Create a team of faculty, students, and staff charged with raising visibility for sustainability initiatives on campus, promoting best practices, encouraging curricular connections, and pursing partnerships with regional and national associations. Further incorporate diversity programming, opportunities to celebrate multiculturalism, and the virtues of global citizenship into our academic and residential life curricula in order to foster a school community that is fully inclusive, supportive, and welcoming to all.

Fall 2016

$

Associate HM

Spring 2017

Dean of Students & Dir of Res Life

Fall 2016

$

Asst HM for Academics

Summer 2017

$

Associate HM & Asst HM for Academics

faCiliTies and finanCe Create a multi-year budget model that incorporates the goals defined in Kiski’s new strategic plan and focuses on the critical issues of financial sustainability, new sources of auxiliary income, responsible management of debt, and endowment growth. Explore the benefits of renovating classroom space, particularly science lab facilities, to allow for flexible room configurations and more transparent integration of science, technology, and engineering. Update the Campus Master Plan in order to prioritize and execute a new set of highimpact capital projects that will stimulate Kiski’s ongoing growth. Implement a facilities management system that identifies replacement time frames and costs for the upkeep of campus property to ensure that school resources are efficiently administered and controlled.

Winter 2016

Business Manager & Headmaster

Spring 2018

$$$

Headmaster & Asst HM for Academics

Spring 2016

$$$

Headmaster

Summer 2016

$

Associate HM & Dir of Plant Ops

ouTreaCh and groWTh Reach a steady state enrollment of 210 with an appropriate balance of highly-talented domestic and international students, an ongoing commitment to need-based financial aid, and continued strong retention statistics.

Fall 2017

Dir of Admissions & Headmaster

Develop a multi-year plan that defines the goals, milestones, and mechanisms for advancing Kiski’s annual, capital, and planned giving programs, and identify an appropriate benchmarking cohort against which fundraising success can be measured.

Summer 2016

Assoc HM for Advancement & Headmaster

Allocate resources to further develop a data-driven marketing initiative that showcases Kiski as an exceptional choice for regional and national families and reinforces our brand as a leader in boys’ education. Provide time and support for Kiski coaches to participate in professional development programs and pursue networking channels that will enhance outreach to highly qualified student-athletes.

Fall 2016

$

Winter 2018

$

$

Dir of Communications & Headmaster Athletic Dir

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

13


GRADUATION May 24, 2015

Honors Convocation

K

Kiski’s Honors Convocation was held in Rogers Fine Arts Center where many family and friends gathered to honor and recognize the outstanding accomplishments of underclassmen and those who have held leadership positions. A school is only as good as its students and we are especially grateful to all of you for your scholarly dedication and everything you do to make Kiski a strong academic institution. The guest speaker for the event was Kiski’s Assistant Headmaster for Academics, Tracy Haswell. Ms. Haswell joined Kiski in 2014 bringing her experience in curriculum development. Prior to Kiski, she served as the Science Department Chair at Green Farms Academy in Connecticut and as the Director of the Summer Institute for the Gifted at Princeton University. At Kiski, she teaches A.P. Biology, Inventionland Institute and STEAM, and in her role as Assistant Headmaster for Academics. Guest Speaker she has worked closely with faculty on curriculum design, professional Tracy Haswell development, and implementation of project-based learning methods. Ms. Haswell has a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Neuroscience and a master’s degree in Anatomy, Physiology, and Neuroscience from Boston University. The names of students who earned positions of leadership for the upcoming school year were announced. These included prefects, headwaiters, head tour guides, Colonel Daub Society members, Junior and Senior Big Brother leaders, and Student Disciplinary Council members. n Cum laude society: Chris Cushman ’15, Kyle DePasquale ’15, Immanuel Joy ’15, Clayton Hepler ’15, Quinn Glabicki ’15, and Yunze Li ’16. n 2015-2016 head Prefect: Zachary Muster.

n senior and Junior Prefects: Pierre Addo, Elijah Brown, Divine Buckrham, Jalon Cooper, Abraham Duncan, Barto Ferrara, Ben Gardner, Noah Giovannelli, Mark Goetz, Connor Goodwin, Jiahao Gu, Xavier Jemison, Jereme Johnson, Quintin Little, Dylan McDonough, Sterling Myers, Tanner Perry, Tim Price, Harry Range, Thomas Rubino, Ben Slack-Foust, Jimmy Tomson, Nick Ugoletti, Johnson Wang, Omar Ward, James Williams, and George Zimmerman. n 2015-2016 headwaiters: Lead Head Waiter: Tanner Perry. Headwaiters: Min Su Kim, Jiazheng Lu, Juan San Roman Bueno, Jacob Rowan, Noah Sabo, Cameron Spencer, and Wei Zhang. n 2015-2016 K-Club head Tour guides: President of K-Club: Jalon Cooper. Head Tour Guides: Sam Carsky, Jiahao Gu, Charlie Schonberger, Cameron Spencer, and Grant Thompson. n The Colonel daub society: Michael Garcia, Ben Gardner, Richard Gremillion, Jiahao Li, Michael Murawski, Zachary Muster, Sterling Myers, Thomas Rubino, Edward Rudick, Noah Sabo, Walter Shaffer, Jimmy Tomson, DeJuan Webb, Zili Zhang, and Chi Zhang. n Big Brother senior leaders: Jalon Cooper and Zachary Muster. n Big Brother Junior leaders: Thomas Rubino and Elijah Brown.

n student disciplinary Council: Bartolomeo Ferrara, Zachary Muster, Harry Range, Charlie Schonberger – Class of 2016; Joseph Lehman and Sterling Myers – Class of 2017; and, Thomas Spahn and Michael Garcia – Class of 2018.

14


May 28, 2015

Senior Awards Ceremony

E

Each year the seniors, faculty, and families gather together for a night to recognize Kiski seniors one last time before graduation. This year the evening began with a reception at the Swank Student Center followed by dinner. After dinner, the Senior Awards Ceremony was held at Rogers Fine Arts Center. Students were recognized for their many accomplishments. Academic awards as well as various named special awards were presented to seniors. Guest speaker, William Ellis, Director of Admission, was appointed to Kiski’s staff in 2007. During his time at Kiski, he has distinguished himself as an outstanding advisor, mentor, and friend to so many Kiski boys and their families. Without question, his high expectations and exacting standards have had a transformational impact on our School. For that, we are all very grateful. Senior Wade Hoag introduced his father Michael Hoag who is a 1980 Kiski graduate and a member of Kiski’s Board of Trustees. Mike enjoyed his days and memories at Kiski and reflected on how much Kiski had meant to him and now his son, Wade. He is a proud father who cherishes his time with his family and Kiski friends. Michael Bradley ’97, former Navy Lieutenant and submarine officer, presented the United States Naval appointments. After graduating from Kiski in 1997, Michael enrolled in the U.S. Naval Academy, where he majored in electrical engineering. He entered the Navy’s Nuclear Power School after graduation, which is considered to be the most demanding academic program in the U.S. military. Michael left the Navy after seven years and started his own consulting firm. He lives in Ebensburg, PA, with his wife, Sarah, and their three sons. The six U.S. Naval Academy Appointments are: Brenden Ferrer Green, Nick Frankfort, Michael Gomez, Richard Gremillion, Cameron Kirkpatrick, and Peter Mindling. Matthew Kokoszka won the Clyde Slease Teaching Prize. The prize was conceived by Clyde H. Slease III, member of the Class of 1962, in appreciation for the dedicated teachers who touched his life while he was a Kiski student. This award is given to a faculty member who, in the opinion of his colleagues, has made a significant impact on the boys he teaches through creative and innovative pedagogical practices, solid knowledge of subject matter and sincere interest in his students.

Mr. Kokoszka is a biology teacher who engages his students in experiments, campus revitalization, pond restoration, frog-catching, and just about any other activity that boys like to engage in. He is also the varsity soccer coach who emphasizes teamwork and sportsmanship. He and his wife, Darlenia, have two boys, and are dorm parents in Fosnaugh Dormitory. Headmaster Chris Brueningsen concluded the evening with closing remarks wishing the students the best of luck.

Top left: 2015 Head Prefect Clayton Hepler and Headmaster Chris Brueningsen. Top right: Matthew Kokoszka and Headmaster Chris Brueningsen. Middle: Wade Hoag ’15 with parents Michael ’80 and Susan. Bottom: U.S. Naval Academy Appointments from left to right are Peter Mindling, Michael Gomez, Richard Gremillion, Brenden Ferrer Green, Nick Frankfort, and Cameron Kirkpatrick with Navy Lieutenant (retired) Michael Bradley ’97 and Headmaster Chris Brueningsen.

15


Senior Awards Ceremony

Remarks by Bill Ellis, Director of Admission

T

Thank you so much for the invitation to speak at Kiski’s Senior Awards Ceremony. Once the boys pass through the Admission Office gate, the reality is the friendly folks in the admission office are replaced by the super star favorite teacher, the influential and charismatic coach, or the kind hearted understanding residential advisor. It is good symmetry, therefore, I think, that I address you now, on this night. I did it once before. Remember? Do you remember the boy who entered my office with sweaty hands and ill-fitting jacket? Do you remember what you told me about yourself? I remember. I remember your middle school accomplishments, your touchdowns, your free throws. I remember the Star Wars character imitations you performed for me to prove your chops as an actor. I remember who lacked confidence, who had a 4.0, who just needed an opportunity. Yes, I remember what you said. And I can still see those boys in my office, trying so hard to make a good impression; desperately glossing over their negatives and working frantically to accentuate positives. But that was a long time ago wasn’t it? And you have changed. You have become what I always refer to as the “after picture.” I love it when a family touring the campus gets a couple of seniors and a couple of freshmen to take them around. When they get back from their tour I can assure them that the little one with the untucked shirt and the tussled hair and gravy on his jacket lapel is just like their son. And the buttoned down one who fills out his clothes like an Abercrombie model; who talks of Middlebury and the U.S. Naval Academy, lists leadership and serving others as skills he developed here. The one that sticks his hand out and gives a warm firm handshake and introduces himself with ease and who can converse with adults with such poise and confidence, I tell them, that is what your son will become. I also call that the Kiski swagger. Boys, there is a lot of Kiski swagger in this room tonight. I will tell you that I take some measure of pride when I say I predicted this a long time ago.

16

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

When people ask me what I do for a living, I say I am in the butterfly business. My job is to evaluate all the caterpillars that crawl in my office and then predict the future. Who is a good fit? Who will make an impossible three point shot to win the game and advance us in the tournament? Who will deflect a pass in the end zone to secure a win over the despised rival? Who will stun us with his vocal interpretation of an old Irish folk song? Who will benefit from the small classes and personal attention and make the honor roll and be accepted to Denison, Kenyon, Pitzer, Miami of Ohio, Richmond, Wooster, Dickinson, Bates, Haverford, Tulane, RIT, Franklin and Marshall, Rice and other fine institutions.

Now, I do not want to negate anything said by your brilliant teachers but I think that what was learned outside the classroom here is at least as important as what was learned inside. And that is the beauty of boarding school. Think about all the time you spent with your teachers on the field, in the theatre, in your dorm room, in a van after a win or a loss, at the lunch table. You have seen the best and worst of your friends, classmates, and the faculty. And they have seen you, too. And we all know what that means. We have a good perspective of what living in a community is like. You are independent. You know how to deal with unreasonable, inconsiderate people. You know how to be a good friend. You have the courage and

“

“We have worked for your parents up to now. after tomorrow, we work for you. for now you take your place in the long blue and gray line of Kiski graduates. You have a responsibility to care for your alma mater instead of her taking care of you. Keep her strong and safe and cutting-edge. and most importantly, make sure she is sustainable in the future for the Kiski boys to come.” – Bill Ellis, Director of Admission

Your class was the largest freshman class to enroll at Kiski since before the 1990s. Your class has witnessed retention statistics, at boarding school mind you, in excess of 90 percent for the entire time you were here. I have never seen that. There are more four year freaks in this class than at any time during my tenure here. Your class has been a part of more victories in athletic events than any four year group in Kiski history. The math team is unbeaten and unchallenged. Your academic accomplishments are numerous and your college list is strong. Well done boys. We are delighted by what you have done and so proud of who you have become. Albert Einstein once said “Education is what remains after one has forgotten everything he learned in school.”

”

experience to support the underdog. You can stand up for yourself and you know how to be a part of the team. Just wait until you see how much all of that will be an advantage for you. On a night like this, I am reminded of our School’s mission: To prepare young men for college and life. There is powerful symbolism in tomorrow’s ceremonies. Don’t forget, there are two of them. I think the diploma, the Kiski diploma, is our highest honor awarded only to those who could and did persevere. Who could and did meet the rigorous academic expectations. Who compared to their peers at less demanding schools, wrote more papers, read more books, sat for more exams, studied more hours, and took everything the faculty could dish out. This award signifies you are prepared for the next academic challenge.


But there is symbolism in the graduation tie presentation as well. Just as we welcomed you into the brotherhood of Kiski on your first day with your new school tie, tomorrow we will welcome you into the more elite society of Kiski graduates. Kiski is not for everyone. The fact is most people don’t have the courage to do what you have done let alone the talent to do it as well you have. You have completed tasks way beyond the scope of the classroom work. Kiski requires haircuts, dark socks, belts, shaving whether you need to or not, weekend commitments, Monday assemblies, seated meals, lights out, required athletics, high standards of conduct, it’s not easy. Delaying the pleasures of life by doing that which is necessary for significant achievement later is a sign of maturity. You have successfully passed this test too. We have worked for your parents up to now. After tomorrow, we work for you. For now you take your place in the long blue and gray line of Kiski graduates. You have a responsibility to care for your alma mater instead of her taking care of you. Keep her strong and safe and cutting-edge. And most importantly, make sure she is sustainable in the future for the Kiski boys to come. This is the part where I am supposed to give you advice about your future; some clever, insightful nugget that you will remember. Alas, I have none for you. The fact is now we will consult with you about what to do next. Our job as teachers is done. You leave tomorrow as our students, but we know that when you return, you return as a man; hardened by your new experiences, wise in the ways of the world. From among this group we will choose future Board of Visitor members. Some of you will be asked to serve on our Board of Trustees. Your School will be looking to you for advice. At the end, it is time to say goodbye. One observation I have about saying goodbye is that many people are not very good at it. I have studied this and put those people in several categories. One of those is Head in the

Sand: this is someone who simply says the end is not near. “It is not going to happen. I will wake up tomorrow and all will be the same. I do not have to say goodbye.” And the day comes and goes and then it’s too late. I used to be “the Head in the Sand guy;” but no more. I am ready to embrace the difficulty of tomorrow’s emotional events. Bring it on boys. I have prepared myself to say thank you and goodbye — to you and to your parents and this magnificent year that can never be replicated. I am ready for the gauntlet where you pass by us with your new diploma and we embrace for the final time as student and teacher. And, when that time comes, I am ready to see you get in your fully packed cars, glance back at us one more time and wave. And, I am prepared to see the car drive off. Are you ready? If you have been influenced by, inspired by, motivated by, helped by, challenged by, comforted by… If someone has been overly generous to you, kind to you beyond what was reasonably expected, helpful to you in an extraordinary way, been patient with you when even you didn’t think you deserved it. If someone has made sacrifices for you, spent time after practice helping you get better, tutored you until you mastered it, disciplined you when you strayed from the path. If someone has fed you, nursed you when you were sick, baked you a birthday cake, kicked

your butt when you were not giving your best, put an arm around you when you had done your best but fell short, said something to you that made you so happy that you cried. Then from now until you leave the campus tomorrow, I challenge you to say thank you to him or her. Say it explicitly and with concrete examples. Don’t be embarrassed by your tears. Recognize them for what they are. An outpouring of emotion that you realize a phase of your life is complete. You are ready for what tomorrow brings but you are profoundly grateful for all that has prepared you for the new course ahead. Make a special effort tomorrow to hug your parents tightly. Don’t let go. And in that embrace tell them that you are well aware of the sacrifices they have made to provide you with this kind of opportunity and experience. Offer your diploma as your gift to them. They won’t take it but offer it anyway. Tomorrow is the last day we will all be together. It will never, never happen again. Tomorrow is that day. It will come and it will go. And there is nothing we can do to stop it. It is not too late yet. Make sure you tell all of us goodbye. Because when you leave tomorrow, you leave as a boy and we will never get to see that boy again. As much pain as that causes us, we have to let you go. We know and you know, you are ready. As you drive off the campus tomorrow, just before you pass the front gate, roll down the window. Stick your head out and take in one last deep breath of Kiski air. Remember all the good that happened to you here. Contemplate all the good that will come to you as a result. Close your eyes and soak in that moment, that final second of your Kiski experience. Congratulations class of 2015. Good luck in all your new adventures. Come back and see us soon. n

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

17


The Kiski School’s th

127 COMMENCEMENT

A

A fantastic school year ended in fine fashion on Friday, May 29, 2015, as we bid farewell to 76 seniors – Kiski’s largest graduating class since the 1990s. There were more than 500 people in attendance including several Board of Trustee members, faculty, staff, students, families, and friends. The occasion also provided the opportunity to present Trustee Tom Jones ’79 with the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Head Prefect, Clayton Hepler, was the class speaker and Christopher Cushman was the valedictorian. After the ceremony, the seniors walked through the now famed receiving line of faculty members. It is Kiski’s time-honored tradition saying goodbye to our Kiski boys. After the ceremony, families and guests gathered in the Swank Student Center for a reception. We wish the best to our graduates and we are confident they will do well in their future endeavors.

18 15 A Year in Review


“Class of 2015, I know you’ve dreamed of this day, sitting right where you are now, grasping that important piece of paper, and very soon being able to loosen your tie without having anyone fault you for it. That dream may have gotten you through your last assignments and final exams, but now it’s time to grab hold of bigger dreams. As you leave campus, each of you will take a small piece of Kiski with you – and leave a small part of yourself behind. Make your way into the world with confidence, as a Kiski graduate – a person of character, integrity, and determination. I know you’ll make us very, very proud. Good luck, and God bless all of you.” – Chris Brueningsen, Headmaster

19


CLASS SPEECH by Head Prefect Clayton Hepler ’15

I want to talk about running. No, not the kind of running that you do to keep in shape, the kind of running that I’m talking about is “Yoder running.” Mr. Yoder is a guy who constantly reminds us that Newton stole his notes about calculus, that he was good friends with Benjamin Franklin (or Ben, as he calls him), and that he was around, back in 1888 when Kiski was founded. He knows that he is old, but he doesn’t act like it. Now, Mr. Yoder’s cross country philosophy is a little unorthodox. He preaches that if you aren’t bleeding or gasping for air, you aren’t running cross country. He took us on hundreds of excursions off the path, through the river, and up hills that we could barely even walk up. I wasn’t prepared for this style of running when I showed up to preseason three years ago. The last day of preseason my sophomore year, Mr. Yoder decided to go on a “fun-run.” As soon as he said this, the faces of upperclassman lit up. They told me that I was in for a treat. We began our run normally, running past the dining hall, down the metal steps into Saltsburg to the gravel of the Loyalhanna bike trail. After about a mile and a half, we veered off the path. We ran into a ravine with steep sides. We ran over rocks, through a stream, under old rotting trees, and up a hill, slipping as we climbed. Shortly after we reached the top of the hill, we came to a clearing where there

20

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

were train tracks as far as our eyes could see. To the left was an enormous train tunnel, two tracks wide. At this point, I was accustomed to Mr. Yoder’s style, of always taking the hard route. So when we trotted over to the entrance of the tunnel, I wasn’t surprised. Mr. Yoder told us about the danger of going through the tunnel and if a train were to come, that there were safe man holes in the side of the tunnel where we could wait until the train passed. He said it so casually, so it really didn’t seem like a big deal. He also assured us that the probability of a train coming through was very low (I learned to never ask Mr. Yoder about probability again). Then he entered the tunnel, not giving us any chance to hesitate. We ran one at a time, blindly following each other through the darkness. The only thing that kept us grounded was the sound of our feet against

staying up and studying for a test, doing homework, or finishing a project; Kiski has had a profound effect on our growth. The memorable times that we have cherished and the adversity we have faced, has molded us into who we are today. Like the soot from the train, Kiski has left a mark on our lives, and we will carry that with us everywhere we go. The bonds we have created and the experiences that we have shared will live with us forever. We have made it. A great teacher and mentor once asked me: “What else you got?” We were discussing the importance of academics in our lives, and he told me that without other characteristics, skills, and attributes, you are just normal. In our world you have to be special to stand out. You can’t just be normal or you will be a face in the crowd. He told me that in order to be special

“We came in naive, inexperienced, and hesitant, but after the countless hours staying up and studying for a test, doing homework, or finishing a project; Kiski has had a profound effect on our growth.” the wooden planks and gravel of the tracks. Our sight was no use, so we focused on our rhythmic, monotonous pace. The only thing that kept us from losing our way was the light at the end of the tunnel, and we had to trust in each other to maintain the pace. Suddenly, we heard the whistle of a train and felt the tracks shaking beneath our feet. We all began to panic – as any normal person would – and heard Mr. Yoder hollering to get off the tracks. We quickly searched for the man holes. When we found them, we pressed our bodies against the wall. The train roared past us. All we could hear was the deafening whistle and click clack, click clack, and screech of the wheels against the track. The wind from the train kicked up soot from the ground and covered us with it. After the train passed, we regrouped and Mr. Yoder led us out of the tunnel. When the light washed over us, we were all covered in soot. Don’t tell Mr. Yoder this, but if I would have ran every race as fast as I ran out of that tunnel, I might have been a state champion. Thinking about it now, that tunnel is like our Kiski experience. We came in naive, inexperienced, and hesitant, but after the countless hours

you had to prove that you were by delving into new things, acquiring new interests and mastering them, and building yourself up holistically as an individual. “What else you got?” is not a way to measure your merit, it is a way to keep pushing yourself to be better. Now I ask you all to consider this as you receive your diplomas today and move on to your next chapter in life. We have shown what else we got at Kiski. We have shown our greatness. The Class of 2015 has left an impressive and lasting impact on Kiski, and I am very proud to be a part of such a great group of guys and two girls. Now, I challenge us all to show the world what else we got. I am anxious to see what we do and where we will end up. We have made it through the tunnel at Kiski, and the rest of our lives await. Now, I leave you with these words: greatness is a conviction to apply yourself with a great effort. We have been blessed with this conviction. Greatness has been and will always be ours. Now my friends, let’s show the world what else we got. n Clayton Hepler ’15 attends Middlebury College in Vermont.


VALEDICTORY ADDRESS by Christopher Cushman ’15 I would first like to thank my mother and little brother for attending my graduation, and standing by my side through my life. I would also like to thank the other parents here, who have given so much to their boys by providing them the opportunity to study at a college preparatory school. Now, around the same time I found out I would be delivering this speech I came to a somewhat funny realization. Even though I’ve attended this School for two years, I hadn’t seen all of the Kiski campus. Because it is 350-acres, I could not have walked more than half of it. Determined to look at all of it, I went on a hike around the back of Kiski, and bushwhacked through the woods near summer camp hill. What I found there fell short of exciting. There were a few old, worn-out cabins at the end of a hiking trail, the remnants of a once vibrant but now abandoned campsite. The real discovery I made, however, occurred within my own mind. I found that had I not been at Kiski, that excursion of mine wouldn’t have occurred at all. I never would have had the curiosity to discover the environment around me. The teachers at Kiski are certainly quality educators. The academic rigor at Kiski is more noteworthy than that of my old school, and the mandatory study hall helped me form a better work ethic and study skills that I can use through the rest of my academic life. None of this, though, can explain why Kiski is such an invaluable experience for a student. Some may say that the bonding within the community makes the School. I am not sure if that is correct. Bonds can be made in many different situations and places. Friendships made at public high school can be just as strong as those made at Kiski.

I return to the trek I made up summer camp hill, to the willingness I had to explore, and affirm that the exploration, not simply of the external environment but also of one’s self, is what makes Kiski special. A student spends one to four years at Kiski, essentially isolated from the outside world, and after fulfilling his daily duties is left to himself. It is then that the mind may wander. During my time here, I dabbled in creative writing, something I hadn’t thought of ever

“i return to the trek i made up summer camp hill, to the willingness i had to explore, and affirm that the exploration, not simply of the external environment but also of one’s self, is what makes Kiski special… When you finally leave the comfort of your home, and enter the great unknown, you will be a step ahead of everybody, because you have already found yourself and know what you want.” doing, and found that taking hold of my imagination in the form of creativity was something I highly enjoyed. Would I have done this at my home, in an environment filled with constant distractions? I don’t think so. In the past couple of months, I spent all of my time working on a software app, and upon finishing, I realized that I made something I could be proud of by implementing both my artistic creativity I developed and the work ethic Kiski has given me. Would I have achieved all of this without Kiski? No, I do not believe I would. All my classmates will be headed to college soon. I know that you have grown during your time here, in one way or another. I also know that most of you have had a positive experience during this tenure. Even if you haven’t, though, you’ve figured out who you really are, and this is

more valuable than anything a day school could give you. What is undeniably true, however, is that you have tasted the independence that college brings, and have had the time and circumstance to develop your own interests. You understand the feeling of independence, and have half your mind already immersed in the adult world. When you finally leave the comfort of your home, and enter the great unknown, you will be a step ahead of everybody, because you have already found yourself and know what you want. With this being said, I thank everybody for this time, and wish all my fellow graduates, now Kiski alumni, the best of luck. n Christopher Cushman’15 attends The University of Richmond.

21


Distinguished Service Award

Distinguished Alumnus Award

Jim McWilliams

D. Thompson ‘Tom’ Jones ’79

On May 24, at the Convocation Award Ceremony Mr. Jim McWilliams was awarded Kiski’s highest honor, the Kiski Distinguished Service Award. Chris Brueningsen stated, “It is time to say goodbye to a legend, Mr. Jim McWilliams. It would be nearly impossible to count the number of times Mr. McWilliams began his day before sunrise, overseeing all of Kiski’s maintenance and housekeeping needs. He has provided exceptional leadership during his tenure and his presence on campus will be sorely missed.” The Headmaster said, “Jim, for four decades you have shared your life with Kiski. At every turn, you have demonstrated a deep and abiding love for this School, for your colleagues, and especially for the boys in our care. And now it is a grateful School’s turn to share our appreciation and affection for you. After graduating from Homestead High School in 1962, you served our country honorably as a Special Forces Officer in the United States Navy. At the conclusion of your military service, you enrolled at the University of Hartford where you earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. You began your work at Kiski in 1974 and, years later you were appointed Director of Plant Operations, a position you have held ever since. During your tenure, you have overseen thousands of improvements to our campus, from small repairs to major capital building projects. At all times, you managed your responsibilities with great care, as if our physical plant were your own home. Throughout your 40 years of service, you have distinguished yourself as one of the most indispensable members of the Kiski family. For all you have accomplished, for your unmatched professional standards, and for your steadfast dedication to our School, we are very proud to honor you with The Kiski Distinguished Service Award.”

22

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

M

Mr. John Jacob ’89, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, presented the 2015 Distinguished Alumnus Award to Tom Jones, Class of 1979. The citation for Mr. Jones read, “Tom Jones, your strong personal convictions and commitment to the pursuit of excellence have led you to accomplish many great things in your lifetime. As a loyal alumnus and supporter of Kiski, you have repeatedly shown how much you cherish this School and its educational mission. Today, it is our turn to let you know how much we value you. You arrived at Kiski in 1975 as an eager and energetic young man, and your intellectual curiosity quickly took hold and grew. You are remembered fondly and with respect by your classmates and teachers as an inquisitive student, a talented athlete, a faithful friend, and a gentleman with a healthy sense of humor. After Kiski, you attended and graduated from the College of Wooster. Now, as the co-founder and Managing Director at Draper Triangle, your enthusiasm, strategic thinking, and personal drive have allowed you to become a highly successful venture capitalist who has helped dozens of early-stage technology companies grow and succeed. And, over the years, you have steadfastly remained a devoted and caring son, husband, and father. As you continue to serve as a valuable member of Kiski’s Board of Trustees, your dedication to our School is sincerely treasured by our Board, our administration, our faculty, and our students. Tom Jones, for all you have accomplished, for your uncompromising standards, and for your service to and unwavering love for Kiski, we are proud to honor you today with this Distinguished Alumnus Award.”


The Kiski School’s Class of 2015 Award Winners andrew arndt Pennsylvania Good Citizenship Award Tapshak augustine The Kiski International Award Michael Borsch The Jacob E. Zeigler Award and The Anthony F. Stokes Forensic Award James Burke The Harry A. Stuhldreher Award fernando Berny Correa The Kiski International Award Christopher Cushman The William V. Grier Award and Excellence in Psychology Award Kyle dePasquale The Jacob E. Zeigler Award and The Music Award William gardner The Kiski Award, The Creative Writing Award, and The Joseph H. Millar Award in English Quinn glabicki The Zachary J. Vlahos Award in History alena henderson The Kiski Community Spirit Award Clayton hepler The John A. Pidgeon Headmaster’s Award and Excellence in World Languages immanuel Joy The Carl L. Arnold Award in Mathematics Keith Kamons The E. William Turley Memorial Award The Eugene L. Biddle Award for Excellence in Science Kevin Kcehowski The Andrew Wilson Award Cameron Kirkpatrick The Bates Award arthur luptak William H. McKillop Award William Molyneaux Pennsylvania Good Citizenship Award samantha Ponzetti The Kiski Community Spirit Award seth rouse The Bortz Improvement Award levente Tarr The Drama Award Chukwuma udezeh The Fine Arts Award

College Choices St. Lawrence University (NY) Indiana University of Pennsylvania (PA) Universid del Mayab, Mexico Pennsylvania State University Altoona (PA) Dickinson College (PA) Pennsylvania State University Harrisburg (PA) Rochester Institute of Technology (NY) Western Connecticut State University (CT) Duquesne University (PA) University of Richmond (VA) Transylvania University (KY) Hope College (MI) United States Naval Academy (MD) Kenyon College (OH) Haverford College (PA) University of Connecticut (CT) Allegheny College (PA) Bates College (ME) Lake Forest College (IL) Middlebury College (VT) Western New England University (MA) Sophia University, Japan University of Pittsburgh (PA)

Rice University (TX) Franklin and Marshall College (PA) Indiana State University (IN) Denison University (OH) Duquesne University (PA) St. Vincent College (PA) Purdue University (IN) Ithaca College (NY) University at Buffalo–SUNY (NY) Pennsylvania State University (PA) College of Wooster (OH) Robert Morris University (PA) LaRoche College (PA) Drexel University (PA) Carelton University, Ontario, Canada Miami University (OH) Texas Agricultural and Mechanical University Corpus Christi (TX) Hampden Sydney College (VA) Emerson College (MA) American University (DC) Tulane University (LA) Boston University (MA) Pitzer College (CA)

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

23


KISKI LUMINARY

Robert D. Johnston ’51 An impactful career built from his early years at The Kiski School January 18, 1932 to January 26, 2015

Article was submitted by Tim Johnston in memory of his father.

W

When we consider our favorite subject in high school or our best academic experience, no one remembers their favorite textbook. It is the teacher we remember. It is the teacher that makes the difference. The knowledge the teacher brings of his or her subject along with the driving desire to share this information can shape the life of a student forever. Excellent teaching is an art. It takes years of dedicated practice, fine-tuning, and more than a few mistakes by the practitioner to achieve excellence. Hours of planning and preparation mixed with some boldness, craziness, pedagogical talent, knowledge, and dedication come together to produce an outstanding teacher. At Kiski we have enjoyed the blessings of many superb teachers over the years. This section of the Bulletin is dedicated to honoring excellent Kiski teachers, our Luminaries. In this space, we remember teachers who shared their brilliance and enlightened generations of Kiski students.

24

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

T

The foundation for my father’s impactful career in independent education was unquestionably built from his Kiski years, which he first experienced as a student, and then later for ten unforgettable years, spanning the sixties as teacher, coach, dorm master, summer school director, and ultimately as Assistant Headmaster directly under his friend, Jack Pidgeon. These years included the first eight years of my childhood, in which I grew up watching my dad’s love for his students, his baseball players, and his faculty colleagues, and more importantly watching them all love him back. We lived for my first six years in Clark Hall, which at the time was also known to many as “New Dorm.” Dad ran Clark Hall the way he ran his classroom, his baseball team, and our household, which was a tiny dorm apartment that didn’t seem so tiny to this little boy. He commanded respect by giving it first. He earned affection by giving it first. He engaged in conversation by inviting it first. Long before I knew what the word “inclusive” meant, I watched my father include every individual, paying attention to their dreams, addressing their weaknesses or “areas in need of improvement” with a combination of toughness and patience, and always

challenging every individual to do his best, often with a direct look in the eye which said, “I know how good you can be. It’s time you know too. Now get moving.” Not every teacher can make that work. Students know when a teacher is unprepared, or not in possession of conviction in teaching truth and how to be and the concept that success, in the words of John Wooden, “Is the peace of mind that comes from knowing in your soul that you have done the very best you can.” This was my father’s approach to loving his students, as it was to loving his children. Teaching is teaching, anywhere it happens, and we all know, if we are paying attention, when we have been in the presence of greatness. My dad’s greatness was established in our Kiski years, and because of those years there were thousands, not hundreds, of young people whose lives were made better by Bob Johnston’s 27 years as a headmaster in Durham, Milwaukee, Charlotte and at Rabun Gap in the Georgia mountains. Those who knew my dad well, at Kiski or anywhere else, will remember that to be with Bob Johnston was to be engaged in conversation. Not chit-chat. Conversation. Regardless of the topic, which often was the Civil War (he was one of the country’s top


scholars on the conflict, its battlefields and strategies, and Abraham Lincoln) or his beloved Pirates or Steelers, or history or politics or philosophy, to talk with this man was to learn something, often about yourself or how the conversation might make you better. Dad gave this kind of individual attention to anyone who was willing to engage, and often this embracing of others actually taught us how to engage in the first place. By the time our family moved into the brand-new brick house next door to Cliff Brett and his family, which for this Clark Hall kid was like moving into the Biltmore Estate, I was old enough to see how much all the students and fellow faculty and their families loved my father. As a little boy growing up on a boarding-school campus far from “the real world,” it was really something to see the affection and respect an educator can earn over the years. I probably set the record for PBJ’s consumed in other people’s homes at Kiski; I wandered everywhere on that campus: from Clark Hall to the Bretts’ house to the Vlahoses’ to the Bakers’ to the Wrights’ to the Curtisses’ to the Pidgeons’ to the Zeiglers’ (including rides on Jake’s motorcycle), to Mr. Gilman’s house, to the dining hall, and to the old field house to shoot baskets

underhanded beneath those curved wooden walls and wave hello to a maintenance man named Lyle, who was always working with a smile on his face and who always had something very nice to say about my dad. In all of my extensive travels as a little boy on what is now known as Brett Lane, even when just visiting the pond to watch the tadpoles or slide around on the ice, I never once heard or overheard anyone, even the most impulsive or immature student, express anything but respect and love for Bob Johnston (“Big Otis” to some, and “Diz” and “Mister J” to others). Much to the contrary, the students on campus loved him so much that several of them went out of their way to teach me how to ride a bike. I will never forget that. These students went out of their way to help a kid who was struggling with the transition to two wheels, and talked about my dad while they did so. That is a rare thing, when teenagers recognize the impact of a teacher or coach while still under that educator’s tutelage. Such was the case with my dad. In our last year at Kiski, when I was seven, I remember attending Dad’s varsity baseball games as I always had. By then we knew we were moving to North Carolina. My life was about to change in a very big way, as

Dad was going to be the new head of Durham Academy, and I was no longer going to be a “faculty brat,” exchanging that title for “headmaster’s kid” and having to learn quickly never to remind any of my peers of that relationship. Even at that young age, I knew I was witnessing the end of something special. It was those last baseball games I remember most: watching the catcher, Pete Martorelli, or the infielder, Jim McCracken, take direction from their head coach, my dad, as if they were totally confident that by being his players and his team, they would be successful by being as much like him as they could. And boy, were they successful. Man, those teams were good. I’ll bet it would be hard to find someone on that team who doesn’t look back and say it was an honor to play for that man. It was and remains an honor, earned only by my birth, to be Bob Johnston’s son. Thank you, Dad. And thank you, Kiski, for being such an indispensable part of his life and that of our whole family. n Photos, left to right: Robert D. Johnston. Bob, wife Ruth of 46 years, Tim, Jennifer and Dan. Tim Johnston with his father, Bob.

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

25


ACADEMIC NEWS The leadership and Character development Program at Kiski By Rob Howard

some highlights for 2015-16 include: n

School-wide screening of The Mask You Live In, which explores healthy forms of masculinity, followed by advisory group meetings to discuss author Christina Hoff Sommers’ opposing viewpoint. n

Holocaust educator Dr. Rachel Korazim will speak to the senior class about the importance of remembrance and commemoration in preparation for the class trip to the National Holocaust Museum in April. Dr. Korazim’s talk focuses on the idea of genocide education as an imperative form of character growth. The trip to DC serves as the seniors’ “paramount” experience in the program. n

Co-authors Murray Dubin and Dan Biddle spoke to the junior class about the long history of civil rights struggles in the United States. Their book, Tasting Freedom, examines the role of Octavius Catto in 19th century civil rights activism, and the focus of the talk emphasizes civil rights education as an important aspect to character growth. In April, the junior class will visit Gettysburg.

L

n

In January, the entire student body participated in several different building projects. These projects included: graphic design, art, wood-working, and boat building. n

eaders in many different fields agree that leadership is a process, not a position. At Kiski we believe that it can be achieved through meaningful experiences. The emphasis of our Leadership and Character Development Program is on developing a strong sense of character in our boys by offering specific experiences to supplement our academic and residential curricula. In its third year, I am proud to say that this important co-curricular program continues to grow and expand on the success of previous years, as we always look for new opportunities to engage our students.

In the spring, freshman and sophomore classes will have community service projects geared toward community outreach and environmental appreciation. The sophomore class will hike the Laurel Highland trails, and canoe locally in May. n

The junior class will close a year of civil rights education by screening and discussing the film Selma. This experience ties together a long history of Civil Rights in the United States. n

Throughout the school year, individual classes will use the Low Ropes Course for team-building and self-challenge exercises during Community Weekends. n

In addition, one morning meeting per month is dedicated to introducing Character Development and Leadership talking points to individual grade levels. n

After each experience, the boys are asked to write a short reflection in their journals.

Kiski supports light The night Walk for the leukemia and lymphoma society For the past 13 years, the Kiski Boys have made a commitment to support The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Light The Night Walk. The walk took place on October 8, 2015, at Heinz Field. Light The Night Walk is LLS’s annual walk and fundraising event and the nation’s night to pay tribute and bring hope to people battling cancer. Teams of friends, family, and co-workers raise funds for cancer research and provide services for patients and their families. Fundraising walkers carry illuminated lanterns—white for survivors, red for supporters, and gold for those who have lost a loved one to blood cancer. As many of you know, one of our alumnus, Jason Tsaggaris ’90, lost his brave battle with Leukemia. Jason was a Prefect, a good student and a member of the soccer and tennis teams. He is truly missed by his family, classmates, and his School. LLS is the world’s largest voluntary health agency dedicated to finding cures for blood cancers. Thank you to everyone who supports us by making a donation or walking. We are saving lives not someday, but today.

26

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review


THE GLOBAL GENDER GAP IN EDUCATION By Christopher Brueningsen, Headmaster of The Kiski School, Published in the Tribune-Review

T

There’s been much written in recent years about the scholastic “gender gap” between boys and girls. Alarms have been sounded, calling for a solution to the challenges boys are facing in American schools. A recent study suggests that this phenomenon is a global one. The report, published by The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), examines performance differences for boys and girls based on testing data from a half-million 15-year-old students from 65 developed countries. One major conclusion is that “young men are significantly more likely than young women to be less engaged with school and have low skills and poor academic achievement.” The test measures achievement in three areas — reading, math, and science. The most dramatic difference is in reading where girls outperformed boys in all 65 countries. Additional data collected for the study revealed that around 75% of girls reported that they read for enjoyment versus 50% of boys. Taking all three subject areas together, boys were dramatically more likely than girls to be classified as low achievers, meaning that they aren't proficient in reading, math, and science. In fact, 60% of the lowest-achievers were boys and 40% were girls. The OECD examined an associated survey taken by the students who were tested in order to uncover some of the reasons why boys are struggling. In almost every country, more boys than girls classified school as a waste of time. Boys were also more inclined to cut classes and skip school, and they were more likely than girls to be made to repeat a grade. Given this lower level of engagement, it's no surprise that another finding is that boys do less homework than girls. For the countries in the OECD study, boys did an average of 4.5 hours of homework each week compared to girls who did 5.5 hours. The report suggested how boys are spending all the extra time they're saving by doing less homework. Approximately 20% of

boys in the countries studied play online games every day, compared to just 2% of girls. These factors don't account for the entire boygirl achievement gap, but they do point to real gender differences in terms of how students feel about school and what they do with their free time. For all 65 test-taking countries, the average percentage of low-achievers is 23%, composed of 14% boys and 9% girls — a 5% gap. That's in line with the results for U.S. students where 15% of the low-achievers were boys and 9% were girls. The question is, what factors are positively impacting outcomes for countries where the male-female achievement gap is much lower? In the United Kingdom, where the boygirl testing gap for low-achievers is close to zero, single-sex schooling remains popular. On a percentage basis, there are 10 times as many single-gender schools in the U.K. compared to the United States. A 2012 study by the National Foundation for Educational Research of 370,000 students at 3,000 public high schools in England concluded that the academic performance of girls and boys from single-sex schools was significantly better than the ones from coeducational schools. As well, a ranking of U.K. public and private schools based on nationally administered tests indicated that seven of the top ten schools were singlesex and among the top 50 schools, 35 were single-sex. In Australia, where the proportion of single-sex schools is slightly higher than in the U.K., the OECD gap is less than half what it is in the U.S. A decade ago, The Australian Council for Educational Research conducted a six-year study of more than 270,000 students. The report showed that boys and girls from single-sex classrooms scored on average 15 to 22 percentile ranks higher than did boys and girls from co-ed schools. The study also documented that boys in single-sex schools were more likely to be better behaved and to be more engaged in learning.

Japan is another country where singlesex schooling is as prevalent as in the U.K. and Australia. For Japanese students taking the OECD test, the gender gap for low-achieving boys and girls was only 2%. Recently, The Japan Times reported on secondary school rankings based on university entrance exam results. The top seven high schools in the number of graduates entering the University of Tokyo were all boys’ schools. An all-girls’ school ranked eighth. In South Korea, roughly half of the high schools are single-sex and half are co-ed. Students are randomly assigned by the government to one school type or another. The OECD gap is only 2%. A 2012 study from the University of Pennsylvania examined academic achievement scores for nearly 200,000 Korean students at 120 co-ed schools and 120 single-sex schools. The study concluded that attending all-boys or all-girls schools rather than co-ed schools is significantly associated with higher average test scores. Single-sex schools also had a higher percentage of graduates who went on to four-year colleges. In other countries like Sweden where all upper-secondary schools are co-ed, the gap is significantly higher. While the correlation between a higher availability of single-gender schooling and a smaller boy-girl low-achiever gap isn't universal, general trends support that a link exists. The OECD study makes clear that young men all over the world are experiencing scholastic challenges that can't be ignored. The key is finding ways to help boys become more actively engaged in school. To achieve this, we need to supply teachers at all levels with the training and tools that will allow them to address the unique learning needs of boys. As we explore solutions to this global problem, single-sex education, the benefits of which have been demonstrated in many countries, is a schooling model that deserves thoughtful consideration. n

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

27


immanuel Joy ’15 Meets dr. Tour at rice university immanuel Joy ’15 a member of the Rice University class of 2019, traveled to Houston for an orientation at Rice. There he met with his advisor and professor, Dr. James Tour, a synthetic organic chemist, specializing in nanotechnology. Dr. Tour is the T. T. and W. F. Chao Professor of Chemistry, Professor of Materials Science and Nano Engineering, and Professor of Computer Science at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Dr. Tour was named one of the 50 most influential scientists in the world in 2014 and scientist of the year by R & D magazine in 2013. Immanuel was hand selected to participate in Dr. Tour’s program at Rice. He attends Rice University on a full academic scholarship and plans to study computer science and nanotechnology. Immanuel is pictured with Dr. Tour and his father.

internship with freddie fu, M.d. By Jalon Cooper ’16

I

I began my internship with Freddie Fu, M.D. at UPMC Sports Medicine in June of 2015. In order to qualify for the internship I had to complete a rigorous application process and compete with a large group of ambitious students like myself, who were interested in medicine, specifically sports medicine. We were competing to be the fortunate student to shadow the world-renowned, Dr. Freddie Fu, and other highly recognized professionals in sports medicine. The application process was a mixture of college and real-world applications. I was required to submit my transcript, resume, five essay questions, and recommendations. The top three applicants were later interviewed and I was one of them. The interview was comprised of approximately eight sports medicine professionals, and each of them fired a variety of questions at me. Apparently, I must have done well, because the next day, I received a call from UPMC stating that I had earned the Dr. Freddie Fu internship. I confirmed that I was very interested and I assuredly accepted it. The internship itself was an inexpressibly great experience for me. The requirements were that I work, more like watch, for 30 hours a week, for six weeks. The typical day consisted of shadowing a sports medicine professional (surgeon, physician, athletic trainer, physical therapist, neuropsychologist, and so forth). As I did so, most of the professionals would guide me along with what they were doing and did so in great detail. I really enjoyed surgery observation for the first time. As Dr. Fu worked on the ACL reconstruction surgery, I initially felt uneasy as I watched a human being’s knee being cut completely open as the surgeon operated with a camera constantly inside of the patient’s knee. However, there was a medical student there, who had explained every single, solitary detail of the procedure as it happened. In the midst of that, I fostered a lot of respect and appreciation for the work of Dr. Fu, and all the surgeons for the procedures they perform.

28

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

What made the experience so great was not just the knowledge of medicine that I had gained, but more importantly, the outstanding people I had met and worked with during the process. If I had the choice, I would definitely do it again. I would like to thank my parents, Kiski faculty member and college counseling advisor, Megan Neumeister, and everyone who helped me in the process of earning the internship. My mother had found this internship, knowing that I was interested in medicine, and brought it to my attention. I truly want to thank her for helping me every step of the way. I also want to thank, Ms. Neumeister, because every time I became dismayed at the extensive application process and wanted to give up on the application, she encouraged and pushed me to provide my best effort, and on top of that, also wrote me a recommendation letter. In addition, I want to thank every faculty member that helped me in the process, whether it be a recommendation letter or the teachers who inspired me to pursue the interest in the field of medicine.


My Cambridge summer experience By Thomas Rubino ’17

L

Loads of support and seven hours later, I had finally touched down. London was bustling and in my jet lagged state, it all seemed unreal. I had always heard that going to another country could be a huge culture shock, and albeit a similar culture to the United States, I felt firsthand the effects of this phenomenon. Barely able to keep my eyes open through the customs line, I shuffled my way over to the officer and pulled out my sheet declaring that I was indeed part of a program associated with Cambridge University. After saying a short prayer that my bags had arrived with me, I headed over to baggage claim and was delighted to confirm that they surely had. I was then promptly greeted by the lead director of the program, who was holding up a large sign with “THOMAS RUBINO, THE KISKI SCHOOL” emblazoned on it along with the Cambridge logo. That was when it hit me. I was finally here! After a short bus ride, we had arrived at the small city of Cambridge. It was absolutely stunning. The architecture was phenomenal and like nothing I had ever seen before. Then I began to remember all of the famous individuals we had discussed in British Literature and Chemistry who had gone to this prestigious institute, influential people such as John Milton, Edmund Spenser, Ernest Rutherford, Stephen Hawking, and Charles Darwin. I realized quickly that I was treading where the best of the best had been educated and had become such great contributors to mankind. At that moment, I made the conscious decision not to allow myself to pass up or take for granted the amazing opportunity that had

been generously given to me, and to try my absolute hardest to take as much away from this experience as I could while representing both myself and my School with pride. The three week program reminded me a lot of Kiski, class time from 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. during the week, lectures every afternoon that resembled Monday assemblies, and trips on the weekend. I stayed in Downing College, a prestigious college that, along with 30 others, makes up the university. Many people were homesick and didn’t adapt to the dorm life as easily as others. Luckily, I was able to help them, because having gone to Kiski, I was used to this lifestyle. This fact led me to meet many new people from around the world and become liked by counselors since I was so willing to help my peers with the transition. Academically, I had chosen to pursue my longtime interest and passion, health sciences and medicine. The curriculum focused quite a bit on anatomy and physiology, with other subjects such as emergency medicine, infectious diseases, and bio-engineering to compliment it. I had approximately seven teachers, and all but one was a Cambridge graduate. It was intriguing to hear their stories and their roads to becoming doctors themselves. Something that I had immediately noticed was how well Kiski had prepared me in the classroom. I had always been taught to take good notes and to ask questions, and that is precisely what I did. I arrived to each lesson well dressed and ready to learn, just as any Kiski boy would. Because of my excellent note taking skills, I retained a large amount of the information taught in the

program, and I feel much better prepared for this year’s AP Biology, Anatomy, and Physiology classes that I am taking. Weekends consisted of going into town to eat, visiting the other colleges, and taking a tour bus along with the other students in the program to tourist attractions. While I was staying in Cambridge, we visited London twice, Brighton Pier, Oxford, Stratford Upon Avon, and several parks and museums. Perhaps my favorite excursions were when we went to see the theatrical shows. We watched two Shakespeare performances, Measure For Measure and The Merchant of Venice, the former in the Globe in London and the latter in The Royal Shakespeare Company theater in Stratford. Both were incredible experiences, and I made sure to thank Mrs. Kapustik, my freshman and sophomore English teacher, for instilling a true love for his work in my heart. Never had three weeks gone so fast in my life, but the memories that I created over there will always be close to my heart. Thank you Kiski for all that you have done for me and will continue to do for me and countless other young men.

Math Team Wins for sixth Consecutive Year Kiski’s math team returned triumphant once again, winning the renamed Westmoreland Economic and Development Initiative for Growth (WEDIG) math competition for the sixth consecutive year. The WEDIG annual competition brings together students from Burrell, Ford City, Freeport, Kiski Area, The Kiski School, Kittanning, Leechburg, and Valley High Schools and provides the opportunity to compete in an academic competition. Competing against seven other schools, for a total of 24 participating teams from Westmoreland County, Kiski swept the top three spots. Congratulations goes to the math team on its mathematic acumen and to faculty member, Mr. Patrick Link, for his help preparing the students every year and returning victorious for six years straight.

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

29


National Speech and Debate Association The Kiski Speech and Debate team, a tradition since 1976, is back with a new name. The National Forensic League has changed its name to the National Speech and Debate Association, but the competitions are the same. Team members meet during the week to research and rehearse arguments, read through scripts, and critique their teammates. Chengye Xiang ’17, Johnson Wang ’17, Zhengze Xu ’16, and James Williams ’17 represented Kiski in Student Congress while Tommy Rubino ’17 and Tim Price ’17 performed a reading from Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead in the Duo Drama event. Students compete throughout the year to earn a place at the state or national tournament where they can bring home both trophies and scholarships.

Levente Tarr ’15 Captures First Place The Kiski Players sent several actors to participate in the regional semifinals of the English-Speaking Union’s Shakespeare Competition at the Penn State New Kensington campus. Each competitor recited a sonnet and a monologue before a panel of judges. Senior Levente Tarr '15 captured first place and advanced to the state finals at Lockhaven University. The English-Speaking Union National Shakespeare Competition provides teachers across the nation serving students in grades 9 through 12, with a performance-based program of the study of English Language Arts and Shakespeare. Through the competition, students develop communication skills and an appreciation of the power of language and literature. Since its inception in 1983, the competition has engaged more than 250,000 students.

Career Day at Kiski Speakers and their respective fields included:

We would like to thank all of our alumni who returned to campus for Kiski’s 11 th Annual Career Day to offer valuable insight into various career fields. Over the course of three, 50-minute sessions, the boys had the opportunity to discuss career fields and passions with current, real-world professionals. Our speakers also had the chance to sit with the boys during formal lunch so that they could continue their conversations and explore additional topics. We are truly grateful for the time and talent that was provided to our students. Thank you!

30

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

Eric Abes ’95 ........................................................................ Attorney Dr. Bill Bush ...................................................... Psychology/Medicine Joseph Caballe ’02................................................................ Attorney Dan Calig ’95 .................................................................. Editor/Sales Max Davis ’02 & Harry Davis ’05 .................................... Auctioneers Maj. Brian Ellis ’94 .................................................................. Military Scott Frank ’67 ...................................................... College Professor Chad McCutcheon ’00 ........................ Communications & Marketing Tysen Miller ’99 .............................................................. Engineering Dr. Terence Moore ’72 ................................ Family Practice Physician Kelly Pidgeon ’85 .................................. Radio/Voiceover Production Dana Rizzo........................................................ Voiceover Production Zach Schwartz ’09 .................................................................. Politics Stephen Sengstacke .................... Operations Manager - Google Inc. Laura Tsaggaris .................................................................... Musician Dr. Jeremy Walker ’97 ............ Biotechnology and Defense Research Kyle Webb ’86 ...................................................................... Architect


CAMPUS NEWS WE INVITE all members of the Kiski community to expand our network by joining all of the KISKI SOCIAL MEDIA platforms that you may find useful. KisKi soCial Media

Where?

WhaT Will i find?

facebook

Facebook.com/TheKiskiSchool

Stories, photos, and links covering the activities of our current boys – on and off campus, and in and out of the classrooms. Upcoming event details, including performances, athletic contests, and events for parents, alumni, and friends of Kiski.

instagram

@KiskiSchool

Photos, photos, and more photos covering the same topics.

LinkedIn.com/groups/Kiski-School-4239164

Alumni are encouraged to build a network within the Kiski community to foster business-to-business opportunities and professional development.

@TheKiskiSchool @KiskiAthletics

Kiski updates (in 140 characters or less) with photos, short videos, or links to the full story.

YouTube.com/TheKiskiSchool

Kiski related video content.

linkedin

Twitter YouTube

T

The expansion of Kiski’s social media network has been incredibly helpful. Like many schools, we lose contact with individuals as they move, and change email addresses or phone numbers. These online communities allow us to maintain a connection even if you forget to pass along your new contact information. With the invaluable assistance of volunteer groups, such as Class Captains or reunion committees, we have been able to reconnect with individuals that we have not been able to reach for years. Once you are connected, these forums fill the gaps between Kiski Bulletins with constant content meant to keep everyone informed and invited to remain a part of Kiski. We are thrilled to share every success story, invitation, memory, laugh, and more. Your involvement also enables positive news from Kiski to reach others in your personal network when you share, like, hashtag, and retweet. Parents with no connection to Kiski have seen those shared stories and considered sending their boys to our School for the first time. Others in your network have decided to reconnect with Kiski through these social avenues or at an event advertised online. We are grateful for those simple “clicks” that expand our reach far beyond that of more traditional – and costly – mailings and other advertisements. Please continue to spread our excitement and enthusiasm across the internet, and if you have not done so yet, join us today. We also enjoy passing along success stories when you are able to reunite with classmates or make new Kiski friends through the power of the World Wide Web. Photo, top right: This past July, Mr. Young Su Ryoo ’11 connected with close to 50 Kiski alumni in South Korea and established a gathering for alumni spanning the graduation years of 2001 to 2013. Photo, bottom right: Mr. Robert Carr ’84 utilized social media to meet fellow NYCarea Kiski alumni Randy Faust ’85, Louis Kim ’84, and Bill Parker ’83 at Honshu-Ichi to share a good meal and many Kiski stories.

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

31


FACULTY AND STAFF NEWS n neW hires

Kevin Wells

David Knapp

Jeff Fennell

Robinson Howard

Kevin Wells joined Kiski as a Physics teacher. Kevin serves as a dorm parent in Clark Hall. He oversees the Robotics Club. Kevin comes to Kiski from North Cross School in Roanoke, Virginia, where he taught Physics, AP Physics B, AP Physics 1, and other classes. He holds a B.S. in Physics from Ohio Northern University and a M.S. in Physics from the University of Kentucky. david Knapp joined Kiski as the instrumental and vocal teacher. He was employed with the Pittsburgh High School for the Creative Arts (CAPA) for 32 years. He was the Conductor of the CAPA symphony orchestra, supervised and coordinated arts instruction and curriculum for all instrumental music teachers, and produced and directed all major events at CAPA. He was also a member of the River City Brass Band, Orchestra Conductor for Pittsburgh Opera Theater, and Pittsburgh Youth Ballet Theater. He currently is orchestra conductor for the Pittsburgh Musical Theater in addition to teaching at Kiski.

David Lane

Jeff fennell is Kiski’s new Ross Athletic Center manager. Jeff brings increased organization skills and new processes to the new facility.

n faCulTY neWs Marcus Muster

Craig Olear

Mark Orsatti

robinson howard had an eventful summer. He married Jessica Weeden in August 2015, completed an M.S.Ed. from the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education, School Leadership Program and attended the AP World History Institute at William and Mary. dr. david lane attended the American Psychological Association annual convention in Toronto, Ontario, in August. Dr. Lane said there were many outstanding sessions, but the most memorable was one moderated by Peter Franzen, Ph.D., ’90. The session was on the effects of sleep deprivation on mental health and activity.

Chris Spahn

32

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

Chris Brueningsen and Marcus Muster spoke at the Online Education Symposium for Independent Schools in London Eton College. The title of the presentation was “Lesson’s Learned in Starting an Online Program.” Marcus Muster and Craig olear presented at the Online Education Symposium for Independent Schools (OESIS) Conference on the same topic in Cambridge, MA. Mark orsatti read AP Spanish Language Exams in Cincinnati for the sixth consecutive year. This experience

provides the opportunity to exchange ideas with faculty, teachers, and AP Development Committee members. In addition, it allows him to become familiar on scoring standards, providing valuable knowledge for scoring his Kiski students' essays. Chris spahn oversaw two weeks of lacrosse camps at Kiski. He will be the Head Coach of the 2018 3d Michigan Lacrosse team. He is Head Coach of the Central Westmoreland U19 Lacrosse team and coached the Rivers Lacrosse team.

WelCoMe new Board of Trustee Members Kris rockwell ’90 resides in Pittsburgh, PA. Kris is an active and loyal member of Kiski’s Board of Visitors and a valued supporter of Kiski and Phase I of the Capital Campaign. Together with his father, Kent Rockwell, they are setting up a new family foundation. His uncle, Peter Rockwell, who is deceased, was also a 1965 Kiski graduate. Kris is currently involved with his father’s business, ExOne, a 3D printer manufacturing company.

Paul siker ’79 resides in Northern Virginia. He is a personable, loyal, and active Kiski Board of Visitor member, a Class Captain, and regularly attends reunion and Washington, DC alumni events. He has supported recent Kiski Capital Campaigns and has been helpful in strategic outreach. Paul is a recruiter and founder and CEO of Advanced Recruiting Trends. He is a noted trainer and speaker and his company delivers professional training programs that enable companies to build and realize a competitive recruiting advantage. Paul is married, has a daughter in high school and two sons in college.

amy hepler resides in Ligonier, PA. Amy spent the early part of her professional career in the textile industry in New York City. She worked for Liberty of London, Wamsutta, and was the Vice President of Public Relations for Cannon Mills. Amy and her husband Robert moved to Rector, PA, in the 1990s. In 2011, Amy and a business partner started a company called Scamps Toffee which sells designer confections from a retail location in Ligonier. Amy and Robert have two sons, Miller, who graduated in 2013, and Clayton, who graduated in 2015 and was Kiski’s Head Prefect for the 2014–15 school year.

Christine Jack Toretti is the daughter of Sam Jack ’45 and mother of Joe Toretti ’04, Max and Matt. She resides in Indiana, PA. She was a former Kiski Board of Trustee member and is a leadership donor for Kiski’s current Capital Campaign.


J

Four Decades of Dedication

Jim McWilliams began his 40-year career at Kiski as the assistant director of maintenance, but quickly became Kiski’s director of plant operations. Jim had a vision for the campus and that was to make it more efficient, useful, modern, and attractive, providing the best for the students. Jim said, “I went through a lot of Kiski Campus Master Plans during my tenure at the School. When I retired, I was proud of what we had accomplished as a team. Both Jack Pidgeon and Chris Brueningsen had the same vision as I did, and that was to make the campus the best it could be for the students, faculty, and staff.” Jim has witnessed many changes over the years. He remembers the lawn equipment he worked with when he first came to Kiski. “We had to spend a lot of time repairing equipment and trying to find parts. That consumed a lot of time that could have been used in a more productive way. Over the years, better equipment was purchased and that saved both time and money. In addition to state-of-the-art equipment, the technology has improved tremendously since the mid-70s when I began. Emails and text messages enabled us to work more efficiently and communicate more effectively. We implemented building checks every day to ward off any surprises and developed a work-order system prioritizing projects.” For 40 years Jim had overseen literally thousands of improvements to the campus, from small repairs to major capital building projects. He managed his responsibilities with great care, as if Kiski’s physical plant was his own home. Headmaster Chris Brueningsen said, “Over and over, Jim had distinguished himself as one of the most indispensable members of the Kiski family and his daily oversight of our buildings will be sorely missed.” Jim made himself available 24/7. Jim said, “If a problem arose in the evening or middle of the night, I wanted to get to it as soon as possible so that it wouldn’t become a bigger or more costly issue.” Jim drove around the campus and his feet combed it as well. He knew where nearly every cable wire, water pipe, and gas line was located. Jim said, “I would study the old maps of campus, making sure that when we were building or renovating that we didn’t hit a line.” He was always busy and happy to help others. “What I miss most about Kiski, is the people. It really is a community. Everyone works hard and cares very much for the boys and the campus. I really appreciated how positive people were at Kiski. I was very thankful also, when my son, James, attended Kiski and how well the faculty cared for and taught him. I am grateful for his education. He is a 1996 Kiski graduate who currently is an accountant for GNC in Pittsburgh.” Newly appointed Director of Plant Operations, Jim Good, worked with Jim McWilliams for 27 years and as his assistant for 26 of those years. He said, “Jim was my boss for many years but he became much more than that. He became a mentor, a friend, and someone I could count on no matter the situation. He was a man of few words, but always remained positive and upbeat; he really loved what he did. He worked tirelessly to improve the campus, and he never asked any of his employees to do something he would not do himself.” In retirement, Jim plans on hiking the Appalachian Trail, tinkering around the house and his grounds, and spending more time with his wife, Lucille. Top to bottom: Jim with one of the many Master Plans. Jim McWilliams and Chris Brueningsen. Jim Good with Jim McWilliams. Lucille and Jim McWilliams.

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

33


COUGARS

ATHLETIC NEWS

n VARSITY BASEBALL 2015 Season Kiski’s Varsity Baseball team finished the season at a respectable 12 and 10 and enjoyed some firsts along the way. To start off the year, the team enjoyed favorable weather and were able to play 22 of the 24 games that were scheduled. It was a refreshing change from the previous year when they only got to play 14 games total, three of those in Florida. The team spent spring break in Florida and were able to meet with Kiski friends, Tim Geddis and Frank Mantua from US Golf Camps. They also enjoyed the company of Kiski alumnus, Colonel Ken Hinkle ’65, who came to watch the game against Seminole Ridge. That was an exciting game. The team lost 4-3 and 5-3 to the Hawks, who were ranked number four in the state of Florida in the largest category of 8A. For the first time in School history, the team made the PAISAA State playoffs. Additional highlights of the year include playing all five doubleheader games that were scheduled and sweeping two of those and splitting the other three. The Cougars also successfully swept Linsly in a double header, defeated Greensburg Central Catholic, and beat longtime rivals WRA, and University School. The team’s batting average was .295 and the team earned run average was 3.01. Omar Ward ’17 led the team in both batting average and earned run average hitting .417 with an ERA of 2.85. Seniors Greg Bearer .405, Dante Lombardi .325, Artie Luptak 14 RBI’s, Justin Patrick .312, George Sorbara .393 and ERA of 3.61, Riley Fagan .275, and Peter Mindling .492 on base

34

percentage all contributed this past season and will be sorely missed. Austin Gaston ’18 returns with a 2.94 ERA along with Niejel Henderson who hit .339 last season and had an ERA of 3.00. Zachary Muster ’16, Abe Duncan ’16, Mathieu Rafter ’16, along with Joey Chappie ’18, and Ryota Mogi ’18 are all returning Letter Winners. The baseball team looks to build on positive momentum created over the past four seasons where the team has averaged playing 18 games and has averaged 10.5 wins each season over that same time frame. n VARSITY BASKETBALL 2014-2015 Season The Kiski Cougars finished the season 169 in Coach Steve Scorpion's first year as head coach. The team had a very

successful year and won The Hill School Tournament for the first time ever. Seniors Dante Lombardi and Kareem South, and sophomore Shawndale Jones, averaged double figures in points and led the team in scoring. The Cougars had an exciting run in the Pennsylvania State Tournament and lost a hard fought semifinal game against Westtown by three points. Kiski is looking forward to continuing their success on the court. Shawndale Jones ’17 and Harry Range ’16 return to lead the Cougars this year. There will be several new faces on the team and they are very excited to represent Kiski on the court this year. As always, the team’s goal this year is to win the State Championship.


nd

Highlights of the year included a 2 place finish at the Indiana County Championships. The Kiski harriers entered as the defending champions, but came up just short of a repeat. The Cougars did bring home the runner up trophy by finishing only five points behind Indiana Area. Scoring for Kiski were Ben Slack-Foust ’17 (3), Steven Caldwell ’16 (10), Will Roeshot ’16 (18), Charles Winston ’16 (19) and Finn McSorley ’19 (21). Kiski also finished 3rd at the PCC Invitational and won the Mountain Lion Invitational hosted by Altoona Area High School. Medal winners included Ben Slack-Foust ’17 (13), Steven Caldwell ’16

(24) and Charles Winston ’16 (30). Coaches Yoder and Forsythe look forward to a competitive 2016 season with all of the returning young talent on the team.

n VARSITY FOOTBALL 2015 Season The Varsity Football team finished the 2015 season with an outstanding 6-2 record. The 2015 season had many highlights, beginning with the Friday night home opener against rival, Linsly School. The Cougars won a high scoring contest 43-38, with an exceptional defensive stop at the end of the game to preserve the victory. Omar Ward ’17 led Kiski’s passing attack and receivers Shawndale Jones ’17 and TJ Kimble ’17 had big catches throughout the game. Niejel Henderson ’16 led the ground attack for Kiski and also played very well

KISki

n VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY 2015 Season Kiski’s Varsity Cross Country team ended with a strong showing this season, culminating in an 11th place finish in the State Championships.

in the defensive secondary. The 35-30 Parents’ Night victory over Wyoming Seminary saw the Cougars come back twice from a double-digit deficit. The defense was led by Junior, Isaiah Frei, who led the team with 20 tackles. Jacob Rowan ’16 contributed with ten tackles and the game clinching interception with less than 20 seconds left of play. Senior Niejel Henderson had a 16-yard touchdown run and a two-point conversion to pace the offense, while also making five tackles in his part-time play in the secondary. This year, the Cougars dominated Mercersburg on both sides of the ball in a convincing 52-14 victory. This is the fourth consecutive year the Cougars have defeated Mercersburg. Coaches Perry, Kwiatek, Iorio, and Griffin had a great season with the boys and are looking forward to the 2016 season.

n VARSITY GOLF 2015 Season The Golf team had a 4-3-1 record overall. Kiski placed first in county, second in IPSL, and third in PAISAA, and also placed second in the Keystone Cup. It was a very successful season and we traveled lots of miles giving us plenty of time for good discussions about school, classmates, girls, politics, Billy Joel, and lots of golf. This team had opportunities to play amazing golf courses all of which are different layouts and yardages. Some of the courses included Totteridge and The Links at Spring Church, Latrobe Elks, Wheeling Country Club, Whitetail Golf Club and Resort, Scotch Valley Country

 35


Club, The Club at Blackthorne, Chambersburg Country Club, Stonewall North Old Course, Trump National Golf Club Riverview Course, Bedford Springs Old Course and Oakmont Country Club which is hosting the 2016 U.S. Open. Charles Schonberger ’16 joined us late and was injured, Will Mosey ’16 hadn’t played recently, but we are counting on him for 2016. This year’s award winners include: Noah Sabo ’16 for being a key player, Edward Rudick ’17, who took a big step up from Junior Varsity. Most Valuable Players for the year included Ben Gardner ’17 and Mark Goetz ’17. The coach’s award recipient this season was Zachary Muster ’16. These young men served as great examples to the team for their character and level of dedication to improving their scores.

Independent School Hockey League and finished third during the regular season. The icemen travelled to tournaments in Canada, Philadelphia, Ohio, and New England and played a defensive, gritty style of hockey that allowed them to be competitive in all of their games. Captains Ben Simpson ’15 and Riley Fagan ’15 did a nice job leading a young and inexperienced team throughout the season. The coaching staff was very thankful for their guidance on and off the ice. The 2015-2016 version has ten newcomers added to our strong core of returning players Conner Dent ’18, Quinn Commandant ’17, TJ Spahn ’18, Max Farcot ’16, Luke Farcot ’18, Gannon Murphy ’18 and Brody Brock ’17. The Cougars will skate with only two seniors this year, so the future is very bright for Kiski hockey.

n VARSITY HOCKEY 2014-2015 Season The Varsity Hockey team finished the season 9-14. The Cougars lost in the semi-finals of the

n VARSITY LACROSSE 2015 Season The Varsity Lacrosse team finished the season with a record of 14-12. The 2015 season

36

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

brought many new challenges, but also the opportunity to avenge some losses. The Cougars won the Cape Fear Tournament for the first time in nine tries. The team went 3-0 and played strong throughout the tournament. The Midwest Scholastic Lacrosse Coaches Association invited the Cougars to join the league and the school accepted. The MSLCA is one of the premiere lacrosse leagues in the country comprised of the 18 strongest lacrosse programs in the Midwest. The new league intensified an already demanding schedule and the team enjoyed the challenges. Highlights of the season were victories over Western Reserve Academy, Mercersburg Academy, and Sewickley Academy. The coaching staff thanks the graduating seniors for all of their hard work and dedication, with a special thanks to four-year Letter Winners, Clayton Hepler ’15 and William Gardner ’15. n SOCCER 2015 Season Kiski’s Varsity Soccer team reached new heights in 2015. The Cougars finished the season with an impressive 16-5-1 record. Kiski advanced to the state semifinals for the second year in a row, losing a tough 2-1 decision to Malvern. There were many highlights to this exciting season: playing in Baltimore against nationally ranked opponents, defeating Mercersburg and University School, and participating in high profile tournaments at South Kent School and The Hill School. The Cougars were a No. 3 seed in the state playoffs and hosted two playoff games, winning both. It was the first time in School history that our soccer team hosted a playoff game.


Coaches Kokoszka and Ford look forward to another successful 2016 season and another run at a State Championship. With most of this very talented team returning, there is an extremely good chance the Cougars will be in the mix again next year. n VARSITY SWIMMING 2014-2015 Season The Varsity Swim team competed against some of the best teams in the region and once again the Cougars continued to demonstrate improvement from the first day in the water until the last. The highlight of the season was their victory against Ringgold High School which demonstrated the excellent work ethic and fortitude this team epitomized. The coaching staff and returning swimmers are excited for the season. n VARSITY TENNIS 2015 Season Kiski’s Varsity Tennis team enjoyed the beautiful new renovations done to the tennis courts and made it through a competitive season with a 2-7 record. Highlights included a 7-0 victory over The Linsly School and a 3-2 victory over McDowell High School. The team also participated in the prestigious Hawken School Tennis Tournament where Senior, Cameron Kirkpatrick, won the singles competition. Coach Schapiro is looking forward to the new season and mentoring a young team with lots of talent.

n VARSITY TRACK AND FIELD 2015 Season Kiski’s Varsity Track team enjoyed an exciting season of competition. They successfully finished in the top 50 percent in six invitationals, culminating in a fifth place finish in the PAISAA State Cross Country Championships. The Cougars started off the year with a victory at Kiski’s Inaugural Track Meet on the new Orr Track and Field. Other highlights included a 7th place finish in a large field of schools at the United Invitational where Malachi Mellema ’17 won the 300 intermediate hurdles and placed 2nd in the 110 high hurdles. At the Red Bank Invitational, Kiski had several medal winners including Malachi Mellema '17, who won both his 110 and 300 meter hurdle events. Second places were awarded to Terence Kimble '17 at the 200 meters and Seth Rouse '15 at the 400 meters. Jumper Dylan McDonough '17 finished 2nd in the triple jump and 3rd in the long jump. Ben Slack-Foust '16 finished 3rd in the 3200 meters. At the Chartiers Houston Invitational, Kiski brought home the 2nd place team trophy with many outstanding individual performances. Malachi Mellema ’17 won both his hurdle events and broke the meet record in the 110 hurdles. Dylan McDonough ’17 won the triple jump event and broke the meet record. Shawndale Jones ’17 won the high jump event. Ben SlackFoust ’16 finished 2nd in the 3200 meters. Also finishing 2nd were the 4x200 and 4x400 meter relay teams.

The Cougars finished off their year with a 5th place finish at the PAISAA meet. Heading into the last two events, Kiski was in 3rd place at the Pennsylvania State meet, but ended up 5th overall. Two standout performances were run by Terence Kimble '17 and Malachi Mellema ’17. Kimble placed 3rd in the 200 meters and 4th in the 100 meters while Malachi Mellema was the State Champion in the 110 high hurdles and Runner Up in the 300 meter intermediate hurdles. One other bronze medalist was Kareem South '15 at the triple jump. Coach Yoder looks forward to another strong performance by Kiski’s Varsity Track team. n VARSITY WRESTLING 2014-2015 Season The Varsity Wrestling team improved tremendously from the first practice in November, until the last match in February. The team demonstrated that hard work and dedication are the true signs of a Kiski wrestler. This was one of the youngest teams in recent memory and they were up to the grueling schedule. Highlights of the year included winning the Ziegler Quad, Justin Patrick ’15 won the State Championship at 132 pounds, was named Most Outstanding Wrestler at States and finished third at the Prep Nationals, Isaiah Cofield ’15 finished 5th at States and Wade Hoag ’15 finished 6th at States.

Visit www.kiski.org to view schedules. Follow Kiski Athletics on Twitter @kiskiathletics. Kiski Lacrosse Players Gaining National Attention BRYCE TOLMIE ’17 (top left) has made the final cut of 63 for the Canadian World Junior Field Lacrosse team. More than 1,000 young men from Canada tried out for the team, and to make it to the final 63 is an unbelievable accomplishment. Everyone at Kiski is very proud of Bryce and his accomplishment. BEN GARDNER ’17 (top right) and PEYTON MANKO ’17 (bottom left) are invited to participate in Jake Reed’s 2016 Summer Showcase. This showcase is considered to be the best summer recruiting showcase in the country and only 30 attackman from the class of 2017 were invited to participate. Ben and Peyton are the first Kiski lacrosse players to be invited to this showcase. Congratulations, Ben and Peyton on this great accomplishment. TJ SPAHN ’18 (bottom right) was invited to participate in Jake Reed’s Fall Showcase in 2015. This Showcase is considered to be the best fall recruiting showcase in the country and only 10 goalies from the class of 2018 were invited to participate. TJ is the first Kiski lacrosse player to be invited to the Jake Reed Fall Showcase. Congratulations, TJ. The TheKiski KiskiSchool SchoolI Iwww.kiski.org www.kiski.org

3737


ADVANCEMENT AND FUNDRAISING NEWS

Kiski’s Board of Visitors

T

The Kiski Board of Visitors (BoV), formed in 2009, are active promoters of the Kiski mission to prepare young men to succeed in college and in life. In an effort to keep this group well informed concerning all Kiski matters, BoV members are welcomed to an annual meeting the morning of Homecoming Day. Since our last Bulletin, the BoV met twice to hear strategic plans and updates from various members of the Kiski administration. Feedback is solicited from the group and that advice provides us with perspective that influences the trajectory of our School. Those key connectors within our Alumni community are then tasked with circulating that Kiski news to classmates and other alumni. During the brief existence of this leadership group, they have been credited with reuniting countless graduates with Kiski. That often leads to a renewed interest in giving back to our current boys, which allows them to enjoy the same special experiences that our alumni had during their time at Kiski. We have plenty to celebrate, and we are thankful for the efforts the BoV makes to invite our entire alumni community to join in that excitement.

38

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

Current members of Kiski’s Board of Visitors: Mr. L. Colvin McCrady Jr. ’64, Chairman Mr. Alan J. Andreini ’64 Mr. Glenn A. Ballard ’51 Mr. John P. Boyle II ’95 Mr. Samuel H. Breene ’01 Dr. Joseph J. Ciocca ’80 Mr. Esteban J. Correa ’88 Mr. Sebastian Correa ’98 Mr. David R. DeSimone ’76 Mr. Michael C. Eisen, Esq. ’84 Mr. Stevan B. Ferguson ’90 Mr. Hudson D. Fowler IV ’94 Mr. Stephen M. Friedberg ’74 Mr. Jack W. Fuellhart Jr. ’90 Mr. Sean C. Fuellhart ’89 Mr. Joseph A. Garcia ’85 Mr. Marshall M. Goldberg ’64 Rabbi Samuel N. Gordon ’68 Mr. David K. Harouse, Esq. ’82 Mr. Neil J. Hart Jr. ’91 Dr. Arthur C. Hayes ’67 Mr. David W. Hitchcock ’79 Mr. Leif E. Honda ’90 Mrs. Regan P. Houser ’81 Mr. Roger H. Kishman ’62 Dr. A. Richard Kneedler ’61 Mr. Terence L. Kothe ’63 Judge Timothy K. Lewis ’72 Mr. W. Duff McCrady ’61 Mr. Chad A. McCutcheon ’00*

Mr. Nathan A. McCutcheon ’03* Mr. Mark E. McSorley ’89 Mr. Gordon G. Meehl ’85* Dr. Terence E. Moore ’72 Mr. Brendan J. Moriarty ’86 Mr. Hal G. Ostrow ’92 Mr. G. Michael Peccon ’99 Mr. Neil H. Pettes ’88 LCDR John A. Pidgeon Jr. ’78 Mr. Kelly C. Pidgeon ’85 Mr. Aaron H. Ravenscroft ’96 Mr. T. Terrance Reese ’69 Mr. Daniel D. Regan, Esq. ’94 Mr. Patrick O. Regan, Esq. ’90 Mr. Thomas B. Reiling ’85 Mr. Michael A. Rock ’79 Mr. Robert D. Sands ’76 Mr. Zachary A. Schwartz ’09 Mr. James M. Scott III ’02 Mr. Anthony E. Sheesley ’86 Mr. Laurence E. Shiff ’66 Mr. Roger B. Sippey ’60 Mr. Clyde H. Slease III ’62* Mr. Peter F. Smith ’72 Mr. Francis S. Urbany ’51 Mr. Kyle H. Webb ’86 Mr. Richard J. Whitlock III ’02 Mr. Jeffrey N. Wieser ’70 *New Board of Visitors Member


The Kiski fund Parent Committee rallies support

T

The Kiski Fund Parent Committee has been building on our positive fundraising momentum by encouraging their peers to join The Kiski Fund. Most notably, in Fiscal Year 2015, current parent giving resulted in a 52 percent increase for a total of $97,720, or 17 percent of the total Kiski Fund dollars raised. Thank you to the committee and all current parent donors for your support! These donations, regardless of the amount, show current parent confidence in the Kiski non-profit mission to foundations and other large donors. The committee’s purpose is to strategize, plan, and organize efforts on behalf of The Kiski Fund. These key current parent volunteers educate their peers about the critical importance of annual giving. The committee is dedicated to making sure that current parents understand that The Kiski Fund is already factored into this year’s budget and is relied upon to fulfill current operating expenses. The Kiski Fund contribution fills the gap between what tuition covers and the actual cost of educating each and every boy at Kiski, which is approximately $11,700 per student above the cost of tuition and fees. Each parent is responsible for signing and sending letters to respective classes, e-mailing campaigns, and following-up with other means of contact.

THANK YOU to Parent Committee Members for 2014–2015: n Chair: Dr. Stacy Gillespie Skoloda

n Senior Class Representatives: Mr. Larry Kamons, father of Keith Kamons

’15 and Mrs. Susan Hoag, mother of Wade Hoag ’15

n Junior Class Representatives: Ms. Kym Stout, mother of Ben Phillips ’16 and

Mrs. Simin Curtis

n Sophomore Class Representatives: Mr. and Mrs. Brian Goetz, parents of

Andrew ’14 and Mark ’17 Goetz; Mrs. Jeanne Rudick, mother of Edward Rudick ’17; and Mrs. Aimee Usher, mother of TJ Usher ’17 n Freshmen Class Representatives: Mr. Mark McSorley ’89, father of Finn McSorley ’18; Dr. Stacy Gillespie Skoloda, mother of Gunnar ’14, Wyatt ’18 and Aidan ’19 Gillespie; and Mrs. Lisa Frederick

Current Kiski fund Committee Members for 2015–2016:

n Chair and Senior Class Representative: Ms. Kym Stout, mother of Ben

Phillips ’16

n Junior Class Representatives: Mr. and Mrs. Brian Goetz, parents of

Andrew ’14 and Mark ’17 Goetz; Mrs. Jeanne Rudick, mother of Edward Rudick ’17; Mrs. Aimee Usher, mother of TJ Usher ’17; and Mrs. Lisa Hegedus, mother of Zach Hegedus ’18 n Sophomore Class Representative: Mr. Mark McSorley ’89, father of Finn McSorley ’18 n Freshman Class Representative: Dr. Stacy Gillespie Skoloda, mother of Gunnar ’14, Wyatt ’18, and Aidan ’19 Gillespie; and Mrs. Amanda McAnulty, mother of Dylan McNulty ’19

Photo above: Sisters and Legacy moms, Stacy Gillespie Skoloda (Chair for Fiscal Year 2015) and Kym Stout (Chair for Fiscal Year 2016).

The educational improvement Tax Credit Program finanCial aid for KisKi and TaX relief for You Kiski has been an eligible scholarship organization with the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program since its inception in 2001 – resulting in over $2.3 million in financial aid for our School during that time. Each year Kiski supporters that own a PA business, or possess influence over the charitable giving of that company, compete with scholarship organizations throughout PA for the $60mil in tax credits made available through the Commonwealth’s EITC program. The funds are typically exhausted on the same day applications go live on the EITC web site July 1 (www.newpa.com/eitc). Those that have applied after July 1 have been denied for the past several years.

Which taxes make you eligible to receive credit on your scholarship donation to Kiski: n Personal Income Tax

n Corporate Net Income Tax n Bank Shares Tax

n Title Insurance & Trust Companies Shares Tax n Insurance Premiums Tax n Mutual Thrift Tax

n Malt Beverage Tax

n Retaliatory Fees under Section 212 of the Insurance Company Law of 1921

To learn more about the EITC program, please contact Steven T. Szilagyi ’88 at 724-639-8028 or steven.szilagyi@kiski.org.

ThanK You to the companies who gave to Kiski through the EITC program during the 2014-15 fiscal year: Bell Clippers, LLC. Brock & Company DrinkWorks Corporation Green Valley Packing, Inc. Inventionland, LLC J.C. Orr & Son, Inc. Luther Development, LP McCutcheon Enterprises, Inc. Mosites Construction Company Philadelphia Insurance S&T Bank Simpson & McCrady, LLC Snyder Brothers, Inc. Supinka & Supinka, PC. Swank Associated Companies, Inc. Swank Construction Company, LLC The Orr Group, Inc. UPMC Health Plan Unity Printing Whirley Industries, Inc.

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

39


Kiski legacy Program is stronger than ever

P

Parents give our School a strong vote of confidence when they enroll their boys at Kiski. They entrust the faculty and staff to prepare their sons to succeed in college and in life after weighing all the factors, features, and options in choosing a boarding school. For Kiski’s 45 legacy boys, or nearly 25% of the current student body, the selection of Kiski was influenced by the additional opinion of a family member that attended the School. Those alumni speak volumes of their belief in Kiski when encouraging their own relatives to follow along their educational path to the small boys’ boarding school resting above the Kiskiminetas River. Several legacy alumni were asked to share their thoughts regarding their rewarding family ties to Kiski. Colvin McCrady ’64 (grandson – Will Mosey ’17): I have always wanted a family member to attend Kiski. I was thrilled when my grandson indicated his desire to go to a boarding school. I appreciated my four

years at Kiski and I am so pleased that my grandson is enjoying his time there as well. Other Kiski boys in the family: Duff McCrady ’61. David Brett ’81 (son – Ryan Brett ’19): Ryan has always been an above average student but really needed our help with homework and preparing for tests. With the smaller class sizes and the hands on learning experience, it only made sense to give him the opportunity to become more independent and he has excelled at Kiski. I'm thrilled to see another Brett on campus. We couldn't be more proud of him as he has surpassed all expectations that his mother and I even dreamed. I knew from my time spent at Kiski that Ryan would be a perfect fit for the all boy learning experience that Kiski offers. I am so thankful for all that Kiski has done to welcome him into the Kiski family that will stay with him for life. Kiski has always held a special place in my heart. Other Kiski boys in the family: Clifford Brett Jr. ’73. George M. Davison III ’82 (son – George M. Davison IV ’17): As a Freshman, we were just happy wanderers in a land called Kiski. As time ticked on however, we became believers in the Kiski way. As I watch my son, George, now a Junior return home from time to time, he is starting to exhibit character, a sense of direction, a sense of responsibility for self and others. We Kiski boys know we have been given a gift. It is a gift of seeing a world of possibilities. Kiski helped create the confidence to believe that we can make a difference in the world so we can make a great life chasing it. Other Kiski boys in the family: Gordon Davison ’84

SENIORS • Top Row: Damon Flenniken (Uncle: Marc Short ’10) Ben Phillips (Father: Thomas Phillips ’66; Uncle: Scott Phillips ’70; Uncle: Mark Stout ’78; Cousins: Gunnar ’14, Wyatt ’18, and Aidan ’19 Gillespie) Christian Miller (Father: William Miller ’74) Edward Han (Brother: Lawrence Han ’15) Max Farcot (Brother: Luc Farcot ’18)

Seniors

Bottom Row: Tanner Perry (Father: Christian Perry ’85, Mother: Amy Perry ’87; Uncle: Christian Crawford ’90; Grandfather: Lee Crawford ’66; Great Grandfather: Raymond Crawford ’31) Quintin Little (Father: Bradley Little ’84); Zachary Muster (Aunt: Stephanie Vlahos ’84; Aunt: Annie Zachara ’82; Grandfather: Zachary Vlahos – Honorary Diploma; Grandmother: Mary Vlahos – Honorary Diploma) SOPHOMORES • Top Row: Nolan Reiter (Father: Dan Reiter ’84), Carlos Correa Solis (Father: Carlos Correa Negrete ’92, Uncle: Sebastian Correa’98, Cousins: Esteban Correa ’88 and Fernando Berny Correa ’15) Ben Caron (Brother: Nate Caron ’17) Jason Kcehowski (Brother: Kevin Kcehowski ’15) Finn McSorley (Father: Mark McSorley ’89; Uncle: John McSorley ’86) Austin Gaston (Brother: Robert Gaston ’14) Wyatt Gillespie (Brothers: Gunnar ’14 and Aidan ’19 Gillespie; Cousin: Ben Phillips ’16; Uncle: Mark Stout ’78; Uncle: Tom Phillips ’65; Uncle: Scott Phillips ’70) Bottom Row: Max Wolfson (Father: Matt Wolfson ’89) Luc Farcot (Brother: Max Farcot ’16) Ryota Mogi (Father: Muneto Mogi ’91; Uncle: Tomoto Mogi ’93) John Jacob Jr. (Father: John Jacob, ’89) Gannon Murphy (Father: Michael Murphy ’84)

Sophomores 40

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review


2015 –2016 Legacies Ryan Brett ’19 (Father: David Brett ’81; Uncle Clifford Brett Jr. ’73) Aidan Barefoot ’19 (Father: Michael Barefoot ’85) Nate Caron ’17 (Brother: Ben Caron ’17) Cully (John J.) Colantino IV ’17 (Grandfather: James Philip Cayford ’64) Jaylen Cooper ’19 (Brother: Jalon Cooper ’16) Carlos Correa Solis ’18 (Father: Carlos Correa Negrete ’92; Uncle: Sebastian Correa ’98; Cousin: Esteban J. Correa ’88 and Fernando Berny Correa ’15) Brennen Crawford ’19 (Brother: C.J. Crawford ’15) George Davison IV ’17 (Father: George M. Davison III ’82; Uncle: Gordon Davison ’84) Grady Fagan ’19 (Brother: Riley Fagan ’15) Luc Farcot ’18 (Brother: Max Farcot ’16) Ben Slack-Foust ’16 (Cousin: Phil Godin) Damon Flenniken ’16 (Uncle: Marc Short ’10) Ben Gardner ’17 (Father: William Gardner Jr. ’82; Brother: Billy Gardner ’15; Uncle: Adam Gardner ’85) Austin Gaston ’18 (Brother: Robert Gaston ’14) Aidan Gillespie ’19 and Wyatt Gillespie ’18 (Brother: Gunnar Gillespie ’14; Cousin: Ben Phillips ’16; Uncle: Mark Stout, ’78; Uncle: Tom Phillips ’65; Uncle: Scott Phillips ’70; Cousin: Nicholas Phillips ’98) Noah Giovannelli ’17 (Cousin: Connor Goodwin ’17, Cousin: Eric Acre ’13) Mark Goetz ’17 (Brother: Andrew Goetz ’14) Edward Han ’16 (Brother: Lawrence Han ’15) John W. Jacob Jr. ’18 (Father: John W. Jacob ’89) Savion Jemison ’19 (Brother: Xavier Jemison ’17) Jason Kcehowski ’18 (Brother: Kevin Kcehowski ’15) Yoshiki Kishi ’17 (Father: Yoshitake Kishi ’82) Quintin Little ’16 (Father: Bradley Little ’84) Peyton Manko ’17 (Brother: Nathan Manko ’18) Dylan McAnulty ’19 (Uncle: Ryan O’Dell ’10)

Michael McCaffrey ’17 (Father: Michael McCaffrey ’79; Uncle: Patrick McCaffrey ’78; Uncle: Kevin McCaffrey ’83; Cousin: Ben McCaffrey ’14; Brother: Will McCaffrey ’10) Jack McNamara ’19 (Cousin: Shane Meisner ’10) Finn McSorley ’18 (Father: Mark E. McSorley ’89; Uncle: John W. McSorley ’86) Christian Miller ’16 (Father: William Miller ’74 and Cousin: Will Roeshot ’17) Ryota Mogi ’18 (Father: Dr. Muneto Mogi ’91; Uncle: Tomoto Mogi ’93) Moses Moran ’19 (Brother: Sebastian Moran ’14) Will Mosey ’17 (Grandfather: L. Colvin McCrady ’64; Great Uncle: W. Duff McCrady ’61) Gannon Murphy ’18 (Father: Michael T. Murphy ’84) Zach Muster ’16 (Aunt: Stephanie Vlahos ’84, Aunt: Annie Zachara ’82; Grandmother: Mary Vlahos, Honorary Diploma; Grandfather: Zachary Vlahos, Honorary Diploma) Tanner Perry ’16 (Father: Christian Perry ’85; Mother: Amy Perry ’87; Uncle: Christian Crawford ’90; Uncle: Kirk Perry ’86; Grandfather: Lee C. Crawford ’66; Great Grandfather: Raymond C. Crawford ’31) Ben Phillips ’16 (Father: Thomas Phillips ’65; Uncle: Scott Phillips ’70; Uncle: Mark Stout ’78; Cousins: Gunnar ’14, Wyatt ’18, and Aidan ’19 Gillespie; Half-brother, Nicholas Phillips ’98) Will Roeshot ’17 (Uncle: Mark McSorley ’89; Uncle: John McSorley ’86; Cousin: Finn McSorley) Tommy Rubino ’17 (Great Uncle: Grant Thompson ’50’s) Edward Rudick ’17 (Uncle: Dean Mosites ’72; Cousin: Alex Mosites ’10; Great Uncle: George Beakmore ’50s) Hunter Skena ’19 (Father: Chad Skena ’95; Brother: David Skena ’13) Cameron Webb ’17 (Father: Kyle Webb ’86) Max Wolfson ’18 (Father: Matt M. Wolfson ’89) Reed Ziemianski ’17 (Cousin: Mike McCaffrey ’17; Cousin: Ben McCaffrey ’14; Cousin: Will McCaffrey ’10)

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

41


Christian Perry ’85 and Amy Crawford Perry ’87 (son – Tanner Perry ’16): Christian and I are both pleased and proud that Tanner will be a fourth generation Kiski boy when he graduates in May. To know that Kiski has had such a positive influence in the lives of so many members of our family helps us connect our past with our future. We hope our family legacy will continue through future generations. Other Kiski boys in the family: Kirk Perry ’86, Christian Crawford ’90, Lee C. Crawford ’66, and Raymond C. Crawford ’31.

Kiski is proud to welcome the sons, grandsons, great-grandsons, nephews, cousins, and brothers of our alumni. The large current group of Kiski legacies is a strong and positive indication of the health of the School. For those that are considering making such a deeply meaningful recommendation to one of their own family members, the Kiski Admission Office would be honored to aid that conversation. n

Kyle Webb ’86 (son – Cameron Webb ’17): The experiences and friendships made at Kiski are ones that my son will remember for the rest of his life. Just the fact of Kiski being an all-boys school where you live together 24/7 and experience the tremendous internal growth and enlightenment of your high school years with many different personas is unmatched in today’s world. Clearly, the chance for my son to experience Kiski and all that it entails is one that means a great deal to me as well as the ability to share those memories for the rest of our lives.

Kiski Admission Office hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; and Saturday by appointment. The staff can be reached via: Email: admissions@kiski.org Phone: 1-877-547-5448 Fax: 724-639-8596

2014–2015 GRADUATES • Top Row: Lawrence Han (Brother: Edward Han ’16) Michael Borsch (Brother: Nicholas Borsch’15) Billy Gardner (Father: William Gardner ’82; Uncle: Adam Gardner’85; Brother: Benjamin Gardner’17) Ian Mori (Brother: Evan Mori ’13), George Sorbara (Father: James Sorbaraattended Kiski), Kevin Kcehowski (Brother: Jason Kcehowski ’18), Nicholas Borsch (Brother: Michael Borsch ’15), Clayton Hepler (Brother: Miller Hepler ’13); Sean Westwood (Brother: Andrew Westwood ’14)

2014–2015 Graduates

Bottom Row: Wade Hoag (Father: Michael Hoag ’80; Uncle: Richard Hoag ’74; Uncle: Thomas Hoag ’72); Fernando BernyCorrea (Uncle: Carlos Correa Negrete ’92; Uncle: Sebastian Correa ’98; Cousin: Esteban Correa ’88); Arthur Luptak (Brother: Augie Luptak ’13), Chukwuma Udezeh (Brother: Obinnaya Udezeh ’14) Kyle DePasquale (Cousin: Thomas Caruso ’07) Not pictured: Alena Henderson (Uncle Ralph Resnick ’70) JUNIORS • Top Row: Noah Giovannelli (Cousin: Eric Acre ’13; Cousin: Connor Goodwin ’17) Michael McCaffrey (Father: Michael McCaffrey ’79; Uncle: Patrick McCaffrey ’78; Uncle: Kevin McCaffrey ’83; Cousin: Ben McCaffrey ’14) Mark Goetz (Brother: Andrew Goetz ’14); Nate Caron (Brother: Ben Caron’18); Elijah Brown (Brother: Noah Brown ’16); Edward Rudick (Uncle: Dean Mosites ’72; Cousin: Alex Mosites ’10; Great Uncle: George Beakmore ’50s) Thomas Rubino (Great Uncle: Grant Thompson ‘50s); Ben Gardner (Father: William Gardner ’82; Uncle: Adam Gardner ’85: Brother: Billy Gardner ’15).

Juniors 42

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

Bottom Row: Yoshiki Kishi (Father: Yoshitake Kishi ’82), Cully Colantino (Grandfather: James Philip Cayford’64); George Davison IV (Father: George Davison III ’82; Uncle: Gordon Davison ’84); Cameron Webb (Father: Kyle Webb ’86) Connor Goodwin (Cousin: Eric Acre ’13).


O

The Class of 2015 is inducted as Kiski alumni

On Monday, May 18, the Class of 2015 met in the Swank Student Center. Several days away from graduation with the smell of freedom in the air, there were only a few assignments and pesky finals between them and their summers. However, on this night, the graduating senior class was treated like the alumni that they would soon become. Over the past few years, the Office of Advancement has created an informal and welcoming event for the graduating seniors, known as Alumni Induction. It is a gathering that celebrates their transition from students into the brotherhood of Kiski alumni, stresses to them the importance of staying

in contact with our School, and reassures them that they always have a home at Kiski. Headmaster Brueningsen gave a presentation that highlighted the campus upgrades that will be taking place over the next few years. They were also encouraged to return for future Alumni Reunion Weekends to see how the campus will evolve in their absence. Steven T. Szilagyi ’88 and T.J. Stock ’04 gave inspirational speeches about what it means to graduate from Kiski, and how the Class of 2015 is an integral part of the Kiski community. Emphasis was placed on the strength of the Kiski alumni network, and the priceless value

of the connections that each of these students now have with every Kiski alumnus. These young men moved forward in their lives looking back on their time at Kiski with great fondness and affection. Although the Kiski faculty felt a void, after saying goodbye to such a great senior class, we will receive great joy when we hear that these students are thriving in their new environments. Good luck to the Class of 2015 on all of your future endeavors! We look forward to helping you to succeed with the utilization of the Kiski alumni and network, and seeing you at your first reunion in June of 2020!

Will’s Gift An Artist Award from The Kiski School The Kiski school Bestows the seventh annual Will’s gift award to Mia Tarducci henry Will’s Gift is named in honor of E. William Turley, one of the finest educators in Kiski’s history. Although he was not an artist himself in any traditional sense of the word, his 35 years on the campus could be called nothing but a masterpiece. His devotion to his students knew no bounds and he inspired many of them to be, if not artists, then whole and true versions of themselves. His gift was his passion for inquiry, for truth, and for the guts to accept the price of such a pursuit – attributes without which no fine artist can succeed. His gift was this kind of bravery and he gave of it every day. On behalf of The Kiski School, Will’s Gift is given annually to an artist working in Western Pennsylvania. It is our goal to assist in a small way the continued health of Pittsburgh’s creative community and to increase and develop Kiski’s strong collection in the visual arts. We hope the campus itself will become an archive and teaching center, a living and virtual gallery of the region’s finest work: “If enough small fires can light an entire community, let Will’s Gift be the fuel for one of them,” said David Conrad ’85, co-underwriter of Will’s Gift along with Kristofer Rockwell ’90.

The recipient of the 2015 Will’s Gift Award is Mia Tarducci Henry. Mrs. Henry is a spectacularly ambitious painter. Her work, both figurative and abstract, both commercially approachable and challenging, is never less than powerful. Joan Mitchell, Gerhard Richter, Andy Warhol: a series of great names come to mind when you stand in front of her paintings, but she holds her own path. Educated in Italy and at Georgetown, she came to Pittsburgh and developed an artist facility, The Mine Factory, which serves as a gallery and studio space for scores of artists in Pittsburgh’s East End. A mother of four and married to a fellow artist, she also proves every day that you can live with the arts and raise a family: paying homage (and a little sweat equity) to both ideals: the dreamlike and the domestic.

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

43


Class Captains and Kiski’s annual Phonathon

I

It has become an annual spring tradition at Kiski to form a relationship between the Office of Advancement and potential Class Captains through a phonathon. These seniors are selected based upon their talent for connecting with classmates throughout their years at Kiski and their potential to maintain that class bond for years to come. The annual phonathon teaches these young men the importance of giving back to Kiski through The Kiski Fund and provides them an opportunity to speak with alumni, share stories, and improve their communication skills.

Their efforts increased participation with The Kiski Fund amongst our alumni and raised thousands for The Kiski Fund. This was the most successful phonathon in recent history – thank you for taking their phone calls! The Class Captains pictured above attended a special luncheon with the Office of Advancement, where Associate Headmaster for Institutional Advancement, Mr. Steven T. Szilagyi ’88, explained the important role of the Class Captain program. The Class of 2015 Class Captains was formally announced to their classmates and

the School during the Senior Banquet, prior to commencement. Class Captains serve as one of the most important roles in Kiski’s Alumni Relations program; liaisons between classmates and the Office of Advancement, and the School, Class Captains connect, inform, and communicate to promote enthusiasm, support, and insight. Pictured l. – r.: Clayton Hepler, Kevin Kcehowski, Keith Kamons, Kyle DePasquale, Mike Borsch, Wade Hoag, Bill Gardner, and James Burke. Please join us in congratulating these fine young men!

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR CLASS CAPTAINS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015! Mr. Robert J. Carson ’49 Mr. Francis S. Urbany ’51 Mr. C. Richard McCauley ’52 Mr. Marquis M. Smith Jr. ’52 Mr. M. David Post ’53 Mr. Robert W. Lamoree II ’55 Mr. M. Scott Campbell ’57 Mr. Robert A. Gleason Jr. ’57 Mr. Lannie B. Mott ’58 Mr. Grier H. Cooper ’59 Mr. Jack A. Baldini ’60 Mr. Harvey B. Goss ’60 Mr. Roger B. Sippey ’60 Dr. A. Richard Kneedler ’61 Mr. W. Duff McCrady ’61 Mr. Roger H. Kishman ’62 Mr. James F. Hilliard ’63 Mr. Edward B. Gaines ’64 Mr. L. Colvin McCrady Jr. ’64 Mr. Joseph W. Handrahan Jr. ’65 Mr. Thomas F. Gallagher ’66 Mr. Victor R. Balest ’67 Mr. Carl F. Kalnow ’68 Mr. Peter L. Schneller ’68 Mr. Edward L. Preston ’69 Mr. Robert C. Shrock ’69 Mr. Robert C. Bygrave ’70 Mr. Scott E. Phillips ’70 Mr. Isaac Tripp IV ’70 Mr. Jeffrey N. Wieser ’70 Mr. James E. D’Itri ’71 Mr. Marc B. Robertshaw ’72 Mr. Gregg M. Hamilton ’73

44

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

Mr. William R. Miller ’74 Mr. Theodore D. Vincent ’75 Mr. David R. DeSimone ’76 Mr. Robert D. Sands ’76 Dr. David A. Currie ’77 Mr. David W. Hitchcock ’79 Mr. Paul W. Siker ’79 Mr. Ronald L. Fricke Jr. ’80 Mr. Michael W. Hoag ’80 Mr. Martin P. Van Fossan ’80 Mr. Paul M. Zanardi ’81 Mr. George M. Davison III ’82 Mr. Timothy D. Waite ’83 Mr. Michael C. Eisen, Esq. ’84 Mr. Kenneth G. Hart ’84 Mr. Joseph D. Null ’84 Mr. Joseph A. Garcia ’85 Mr. Christopher F. O’Neil ’85 Mr. Andrew Scott ’85 Mr. Douglas M. Scott ’85 Mr. David L. Farley ’86 Mr. Kyle H. Webb ’86 Mr. William M. Kendall ’87 Mr. Brian P. Murphy ’87 Mr. Neil H. Pettes ’88 Mr. Steven T. Szilagyi ’88 Mr. Mark E. McSorley ’89 Mr. Bryson G. VanNostrand ’89 Mr. William D. Carrera II ’90 Mr. Stevan B. Ferguson ’90 Mr. Jack W. Fuellhart Jr. ’90 Mr. Patrick O. Regan, Esq. ’90 Mr. Marcus D. Schlegel ’91

2015 A Year in Review

Mr. Hal G. Ostrow ’92 Mr. David S. DeSimone ’93 Mr. Joseph C. Ott ’94 Mr. Richard K. Worth ’94 Mr. Gregory L. Lignelli ’95 Mr. Chad G. Skena ’95 Mr. Darren J. Silvis ’96 Mr. Hugh B. Gallagher ’97 Mr. Austin W. Mann III ’97 Mr. Uthan R. Pillai ’97 Mr. Raymond J. Prushnok ’97 Mr. Andrew R. Swank ’97 Dr. Jeremy P. Walker ’97 Mr. Sebastian Correa ’98 Mr. Benjamin R. Schweikert ’98 Mr. Brett D. Yost ’98 Mr. G. Michael Peccon ’99 Mr. William C. Bower ’00 Mr. Michael A. Rosidivito ’00 Dr. Harry A. Seibel II ’00 Mr. Benjamin J. Beas ’01 Dr. Michael M. Aziz ’02 Mr. James M. Scott III ’02 Mr. Todd C. Beas ’03 Mr. T.J. Stock ’04 Mr. James D. Buchner Jr. ’05 Mr. Harry S. Davis ’05 Mr. John F. Karian ’05 Mr. Christian W. McCague ’06 Mr. Charles A. Yukevich ’06 Mr. Patrick R. Macaluso ’07 Mr. Henry Q. Yukevich ’07 Mr. Guillermo Frutos Miranda ’09

Mr. Franklin W. Kowalewski Jr. ’09 Mr. William S. Ray ’09 Mr. Zachary A. Schwartz ’09 Mr. Austin C. Shide ’09 Mr. John C. Zang ’09 Mr. Andrew C. Bell ’10 Mr. Daniel J. Traficanti Jr. ’10 Mr. Nicholas C. Drohan ’11 Mr. Armand B. Holmes ’11 Mr. Benjamin Kowalewski ’11 Mr. Joseph L. Manderino ’11 Mr. Luke Pajer ’11 Mr. Scott A. Cohen ’12 Mr. Andrew B. Hazel ’12 Mr. Howard J. Keenan ’12 Mr. Alexander S. Lucci ’12 Mr. William T. Owen ’12 Mr. Matthew J. Buczek ’13 Mr. Major A. Canady ’13 Mr. Andrei Ghioca ’13 Mr. Alexander K. Hart ’13 Mr. Miller R. Hepler ’13 Mr. August J. Luptak ’13 Mr. Zachary M. Michel ’13 Mr. Robert Gaston Jr. ’14 Mr. Hannibal W. George ’14 Mr. Gunnar J. Gillespie ’14 Mr. Andrew Goetz ’14 Mr. Aaron R. Magazine ’14 Mr. Charles W. Russell ’14 Mr. Benjamin J. Tackett ’14


The Kiski Fund ThanK You to the Board of Trustees, Board of Visitors, Class Captains, Alumni, Parents, faculty, staff, friends, and other donors who helped us to shatter Fiscal Year 2015’s goal of $500,000 and raise the most unrestricted dollars for The Kiski Fund – ever! Kiski donors were so generous that we had to add another section to our “thermometer” graphic that was being used to track support. Eventually, together we reached a new record for unrestricted annual giving and we “ran out of tie” on the graphic.

$562,299 raised in Fiscal Year 2015!

ThanK You! The generosity of the Kiski community helped us raise the most Kiski Fund dollars – ever!

Kiski’s annual fund: “The Kiski fund” The Kiski Fund is the School’s annual fundraising priority and a vital source of revenue. Every dollar raised is used to support the operating budget for the current year and assures the highest quality educational experience for our boys. The Kiski School relies on the fund to fulfill current budgeted operating expenses. Your support enables Kiski to fulfill its mission of preparing young men to succeed in college and in life.

This Year’s Goal for The Kiski Fund:

For Kiski boys, all of this translates into a traditional college preparatory curriculum enhanced by diverse offerings in the arts and a robust technology program. Small classes allow our teachers, almost all of whom live on campus, to model the habits we expect our students to learn and practice: honesty, civility, tenacity and openmindedness. Our teachers are experts in the education of boys. They understand their unique learning needs and they know how to reach and teach young men. Most importantly, they love what they do. Moreover, our faculty is committed to helping our students develop what many have termed “21st Century Skills” – the proficiencies they will need to survive and thrive in college and beyond.

$520,000

andrew Wilson leadership association and 1888 Young alumni Club Last year, The Kiski Fund revised its giving levels to create a more streamlined approach with names, the addition of new levels, and creation of the distinguished Andrew Wilson Leadership Association, recognizing our valued leadership donors who work to further Kiski’s mission. Kiski The andrew Wilson leadership association also recognizes that it has young alumni Leadership Association ........................ $10,000 + in college and in the beginning of their Benefactor Association .............. $7,500 – $9,999 careers who would like to give back to Sustainer Association ................ $5,000 – $7,499 Kiski in a manner that fits their budget. Kiskiminetas Association .......... $2,500 – $4,999 Therefore, Kiski created the 1888 Young 1888 Founder’s Association ........ $1,888 – $2,499 Alumni Club, where a donation of $18.88 Headmaster’s Club ...................... $1,000 – $1,887 can make you an esteemed member. Ambassador Club ............................ $500 – $999 When making a donation to The Patron Club ...................................... $250 – $499 Kiski Fund, please consider these giving Loyalty Club ...................................... $100 – $249 levels and joining the prestigious Donor Club ............................................ Up to $99 Andrew Wilson Leadership Association 1888 Young Alumni Club ............................ $18.88 with a donation of $1,888 or more.

Why give? Perhaps you are an alumnus and would like to contribute to the education of our current class of Kiski boys, just as Alumni donated to The Kiski Fund when you were a current student. Or, maybe you are a current parent whose gift will support the faculty and programs that make Kiski so special to your family. Maybe you are a “Friend of Kiski” and simply believe in the good work we are doing with boys. Regardless of your motivation to give, your gift will be greatly appreciated by the boys that receive your support. Small class sizes are a cornerstone of a Kiski education. They also lead to smaller alumni and parent groups to reach out to for support. Because our need is large but the number who will give is small, your gift matters. By giving and getting involved this year, and every year, you make a difference in the lives of Kiski boys. Your annual gift goes directly to the programs and activities that define the Kiski experience.

how Can You Make a gift? n

online: www.kiski.org/giveonline Monthly Payments: The 21 st Century Society provides the opportunity to make your gift in monthly, automatic installments from your debit account or credit card. With this convenient method, you may make a “stretch” gift to The Kiski Fund as it allows you to spread your gift payments over a 12-month cycle. Sign up online: www.kiski.org/giveonline. n Mail: You may mail a check payable to The Kiski School using the enclosed envelope. n Matching Gifts: Your employer may effectively double – even triple – the amount of your gift to Kiski. Visit our web site’s “Matching Gift” page under the “Support Kiski” tab to search for your company or consult your human resources office to discover whether or not your employer will match gifts to Kiski – a 501(c)3. Please contact us if you need assistance at advancement@kiski.org or 724-639-8029. n

45


alumni reception held at inventionland in Pittsburgh

alumni reception held in Washington, dC

46

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review


alumni reception held at the duquesne Club in Pittsburgh, Pa

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

47


KISKI 2015 REUNION WEEKEND

P

Top left: Logan Dickerson ’45 accepted the honor of being the “Most Experienced” alumnus to attend Reunion Weekend. Top right: David Charley ’75 traveled in for Reunion Weekend 2015 from Tokyo, Japan. Middle: the Class of 1970 met for golf and dinner in Greensburg on Friday of Reunion Weekend before joining the party on campus the following day. Bottom: Kim Conover-Loar introduced Mac Swinford ’75 and his wife, Jane, Frank McNutt ’65, and Andy Anderson ’55 to metalsmithing. See more Reunion photos on page 50.

48

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

Preparation for the 2015 Reunion Weekend started in the summer of 2014 when dozens of alumni from across the milestone reunion years ending in ’0 and ’5 volunteered to reach out to their classmates in order to welcome them back to Kiski. Months of calls, emails, and visits paid off when Kiski boys returned in outstanding numbers for the reunion festivities on June 6 and 7, 2015. Saturday started with a breakfast buffet before our guests split up to enjoy activities. One group kayaked the Kiskiminetas with Neal Andritz ’86, while others joined Golf Pro Frank Mantua to hone their skills on the Kiski links. An art class was led by Andy Scott ’85 and alumni and their families also joined faculty member Kim Conover-Loar for metalsmithing. The outdoor pool and tennis courts were buzzing with action. Tours were led through the campus so that our visitors could see the improvements made to our dormitories and classrooms. Although the Ross Athletic Center was under construction and closed, everyone could see the structure’s external features nearing completion. Alumni gathered under the big tent to share stories from their days on campus and updates covering their post-Kiski journeys. Laughs and smiles filled a day that seemed to – as with every reunion – evaporate rapidly. Before long, the cocktail hour in the Swank Student Center was underway, featuring updates from Headmaster Chris Brueningsen and the presentation of Reunion Weekend awards led by Steven T. Szilagyi ’88. The Class of 1965 triumphantly celebrated not only winning the Reunion Giving Cup – given to the milestone reunion class that has the highest participation percentage with The Kiski Fund, they also answered the challenge from the Class of 1964 to outdo the $51,150 they raised in 2014 for their 50th reunion. The Class of 1965 finished their fundraising efforts with an amazing $56,384 raised for The Kiski Fund. Logan Dickerson ’45 was called forward to receive recognition as the “Most Experienced” alumnus in attendance, and David Charley ’75 was named the most distant traveler, having made the trip to Saltsburg from Tokyo. Class Captains in attendance were acknowledged and presented with ties before the group dispersed for class photos and the reunion banquet. Following dinner, the Saltsburg Canal Days’ fireworks display illuminated the campus as pockets of guests gathered on the cliff to take in the view. Many of the alumni found the energy of their younger years and stayed up late into the evening surrounding the bonfire and playing games in the Swank Student Center. When the last visitor left campus the next morning, the effort put in by the outreach volunteers and Class Captains to reunite the group was proven well worth the time and energy expended. In the end, it is the people that make that first weekend in June special. The Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations already started constructing reunion outreach committees for the 2016 reunion on June 4 and 5. Years ending in ’1 and ’6 will be celebrated but we sincerely welcome all to join in the fun. If you are interested in contributing to the outreach efforts, any and all assistance would be greatly welcome. Please contact the Advancement Office at advancement@kiski.org or by calling 724-639-8029.


KisKi Reunion GivinG

K

Knowing that it can be difficult for alumni to return to campus for every Reunion Weekend, an emphasis has always been placed on returning for each five-year increment from your graduation. In 2010, Kiski introduced the Reunion Giving Challenge to build on that concept. During five-year increment reunions, those highlighted classes are tasked with encouraging the highest percentage of involvement with The Kiski Fund. The last gifts are tallied before the cocktail hour, and the winning class is announced before dinner when they are awarded the Reunion Giving Cup. Not surprisingly, our competitive alumni answered that challenge with record Kiski Fund involvement. Gifts of any and all sizes count toward participation and have totaled to impressive percentages of the overall Kiski Fund in recent years. Thankfully, many alumni continue giving to The Kiski Fund in between those milestone reunion years. Thanks to our alumni, our current boys always benefit from the Reunion Giving Challenge, regardless of which class wins the cup.

Below: Joe Garcia ’85 accepts the first Reunion Giving Cup from Roger Kishman ’62 at the 2010 Reunion Weekend. Top right: In 2014, the Class of 1964 may have raised the most money for The Kiski Fund, but it was the Class of 1989 that reigned in gifts from an astounding 31 classmates to take the Cup. Middle right: Also in 2014, the Class of 1964 set out to raise over $50,000 for The Kiski Fund to celebrate their 50th Reunion. They finished with a total of $51,150 and then passed the challenge on to the Class of 1965. Bottom right: The Class of 1965 met and exceeded The Kiski Fund dollars raised by the Class of 1964 the year before by totaling $56,384 for their own 50th Reunion and winning the Reunion Giving Cup in 2015.

Reunion GivinG Cup WinneRs: Highest participation percentage with The Kiski Fund for a Class returning during a milestone reunion (increments of five years since graduation). Reunion Weekend 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010

Reunion Cup Winning Class 1965 1989 1988 1962 1986 1985

Milestone YeaR: (5-year increments) Giving Records for the class(es) with the most participants for each milestone reunion since 1990. Milestone Anniversary 65 th 60 th 55 th 50 th 45 th 40 th 35 th 30 th 25 th 20 th 15 th 10 th 5 th

Record Holding Class(es) 1949 1951, 1953 1949 1962 1962 1951 1964 1964 1989 1970 1984 1984 1986

Number of Participants 12 12 16 28 29 25 27 32 31 23 24 26 14

DollaRs RaiseD: The class that raised the most for The Kiski Fund for each milestone reunion since 1990. Milestone Anniversary 65 th 60 th 55 th 50 th 45 th 40 th 35 th 30 th 25 th 20 th 15 th 10 th 5 th

Record Holding Class 1939 1951 1960 1965 1965 1970 1972 1970 1989 1995 1995 1987 2003

Dollars Raised $11,550 $13,675 $14,600 $56,384 $26,500 $19,335 $14,200 $14,160 $19,580 $15,304 $11,950 $3,105 $2,520

I

www.kiski.org

The Kiski School

49


50


Many projects have been completed at Kiski n n n n n n n n n n n

Ross Athletic Center New entry way to the campus Carroll “Beano” Cook ’49 Outdoor Athletic Center Donald H. Jones Athletic Stadium Orr Track and Field MacColl Hall Expansion and Renovation New “makerspace” area and equipment for Heath Hall New appliances for Turley Dining Hall Updated equipment for the Arts New tennis courts and fencing around the courts Resurfacing of the outdoor basketball court and of the outdoor pool

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

51


CLASS NOTES 1960s terry slease ’62 and Associate Headmaster for Advancement, steve szilagyi ’88, enjoyed golfing together in Ligonier, PA in support of The Kiski School and Valley School of Ligonier. Associate Headmaster for Advancement, steve szilagyi ’88, recently enjoyed the pleasure of golfing with long-term supporters of Kiski: Michael Supinka (past parent); terry slease ’62 (Board of Visitors); and Greg lignelli ’95 (Board of Trustees) as part of ‘Team Kiski’ in support of The Kiski School and Valley School

at Princeton, the second ranking officer in the department. Lastly, Jeff Wieser ’70 was in attendance to start a two-year term as Chair of the Alumni Council. Kiski was very well represented at the luncheon and were proud to be in each other’s company!

Kiski: Russ swank ’67, Joe Handrahan ’65, and Colvin McCrady ’64.

Russ swank ’67 with Chase edgar ’15, Kevin Kcehowski ’15, James Burke ’15 and faculty member, Sean Griffin at a Steeler game.

of Ligonier. edward (ned) entwisle ’63 is retired from the USAF. If you would like to contact Ned his email is nedentwisle@gmail.com. Rick Kunkle ’65 randomly met up with terry slease ’62 several years ago; when he saw that Terry’s boat was parked opposite his in Annapolis! Rick’s boat was in the Annapolis to Bermuda Ocean Race.

Ken Hinkle ’65 came to cheer on the Cougars in Florida during Spring Break. He is pictured in the middle of the team photo. Kiski lost 4-3 in the bottom of the 8th inning. Kiski alumni were in attendance at Princeton Alumni Council’s annual meeting luncheon. Pictured are tom Fleming ’65, who received one of four Alumni Service Awards for his leadership of the Graduate InterClub Council. logan powell ’92 represented the Princeton Admissions Office as the Associate Dean of Admissions

52

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

Jack Hanna ’65 held a fundraiser in Pittsburgh for his resort The Wilds. Many alumni were in attendance including in the photo, (left and right of Jack), Colvin McCrady ’64 and Joe Handrahan ’65.

Jeff Mathias ’69 lives in Lewisburg and manages a car repair shop. Who’d thought. I can tell the difference between a contubulator and a framastat! To contact Jeff email: jboy@mapatan.com.

“Kubby” Joe McKinnon ’66: This is not good news, but it may be inspiring. Patricia, my wife of 38 years, has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. There is a web site called Caring Bridge in which she tells about her ongoing battle. Her site has had more than 2,000 hits so far and it is a source of strength for Pat. She is getting world class care from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Our oldest son Darren and his wife Emily live in Ann Arbor with our two grand-children. Our younger son Gavin is living in Pittsburgh. He is in his second year of residency with St. Margarets UPMC.

1970s

Russ swank ’67 and andrew swank ’97 hosted Kiski boys at the Oakmont Country Club. Pictured left to right are: Russ swank ’67, ed Rudick ’17, Zach Muster ’16, noah sabo ’16, Ben Gardner ’17, tJ usher ’17, Mark Goetz ’17, Mark Orsatti, and andrew swank ’97. steve szilagyi ’88, Associate Headmaster for Advancement, recently enjoyed the distinct pleasure of golfing with alumni and long-term supporters of

ed eckstein ’71 and Guy eckstein ’74, visited The Kiski School and they enjoyed their talks with students and teachers. Ed and Guy also met with Headmaster, Chris Brueningsen, and Associate Headmaster for Advancement, steve szilagyi ’88, to learn more about the School’s overall progress as well as Phase II of the Capital Campaign which focused on the new $8.3 million Indoor Athletic Center. Ed and Guy stated that they were thrilled to be back on the campus and energized by the direction and strong growth of the School.

Jim Moore ’71 started an important new role as Managing Director of the new Georgetown University McDonough School of Business’ “Business, Society, and Public Policy Initiative.”


all class notes received after october 5, 2015, will be in next year’s Bulletin.

tony tulisiak ’73 is pictured with his daughter, Claire, and the Kiski Varsity Lacrosse team after the St. Xavier contest. Gus Martin ’73 made the decision to return to California State University’s faculty in Fall 2015 after ten years in academic administration. He will be a full Professor teaching in the Criminal Justice Administration major. Gus is looking forward to returning to the Department. He is also planning to focus on research and writing. To date, he has written five books on terrorism, one on homeland security, and one on juvenile justice process. patrick Kelley ’74 has launched a new publishing company, Stonefly Press, in West Palm Beach, specializing in outdoor life and fly fishing. He has signed the best-selling authors in outdoor publishing and has recently released seven books now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Kobo, and Kindle. Stonefly will soon be producing a reality outdoors TV show hosted by a well-known Hollywood personality. Please check the website www.stoneflypress.com.

JD null ’84 and his wife, Lynn were blessed to have a son, Andrew on March 25, 2015. This photo was taken on July 4 during fireworks. Some classmates may know that JD and Lynn lost their daughter, Jenna on December 13, 2009 to ARPKD. JD started a new position at Homestead America as HR Director. They reside in Dublin, Ohio. Lastly, JD is still playing baseball and participated in the national World Series in Phoenix, AZ for players 25 and older. He played against Jose Canceco and Orel Hershiser.

Kelly pidgeon ’85 and John Guandolo ’85 performing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. The event was Sing it’s America held on Monday, September 14, 2015.

1980s George Davison iii ’82 was featured on the Steve Harvey show. George and Mr. Harvey discussed his wealth of inventing know-how and helped judge the show’s “Pitch to Win” contest. In the “Pitch to Win” contest, a working mom came up with a product sample. The winner received a $10,000 check from Inventionland. George Davison iii ’82 had the pleasure of hosting a great group of boys from Kiski’s Ski Club for lunch and a warm-up from the below zero weather.

Faculty member, Mark Orsatti, met with Marc Weaver ’82 and Joe Garcia ’85 at The Holy Grail for dinner, across the street from the Cincinnati Reds stadium while he was there for 2015 AP Spanish Language Reading/Grading.

David Conrad ’85 offered his talents as the director of Kiski’s fall play production of Goldstar, Ohio. It was an amazing performance by a very talented group of young people. These boys and girls juggled academics, sporting events, musical concerts, and college applications. We want to congratulate them on their truly heartbreaking performances. The cast included Kiski students and female students from nearby schools.

On Tuesday, April 7, the Junior class, in preparation for the annual overnight Gettysburg fieldtrip, got to experience the life of a Civil War soldier. Living historian Jon Baker ’84 and some of his friends and fellow reenactors came to campus and walked the Juniors through a discussion on the basics of Civil War history and the daily life of a soldier in particular. Michael nanney ’85 of Kittanning plunges into the Allegheny River leading the first wave of people taking a dip to raise money for cancer research at the 16th annual Dianna Ashbaugh Memorial Polar Bear Plunge.

Chris Cobetto ’85 and his son, Cooper, met Randy Hoffman ’70 and his wife, Leah, at the Collegiate vs. Kiski Lacrosse game in Richmond. Jon Reiter ’88 has been living in Denver, Colorado since 2001. Jon was married in 2008 to Traci Reiter and has three children. Jon started his own Internet marketing firm in 2010 called Epic Web Results (www.epicwebresults.com) targeting attorneys nationwide. When not working, Jon enjoys spending time with his wife, kids, hunting, and archery. Jon can be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jonathanreiter David Wolf ’88 and his wife Amanda welcomed their second child Elliot Calvin into the world on October 21. Elliot joins his sister Elizabeth who turned 12 in July. In addition, David accepted a new position as Vice President for Federal Civilian Programs with Data Networks Corporation in Reston, VA, where he is overseeing programs for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

53


CLASS NOTES

Mark abyss ’88 is a Senior Index & ETF Manager at ISE ETF Ventures focusing on index design and product development. The most recent launch was based on the ISE Cyber Security Index. He has been living in NJ for almost 10 years and working in Manhattan for the same amount of time. Mark is hiking with family in this photo. Kiski alum paul Minda, ph.D. ’88 had his text book released by the publisher in October. It is called The Psychology of Thinking. He is teaching at the University of Western Ontario. Joseph Bielevicz ’89 and his wife, Chris, on a trip to Patagonia in November 2014. The photo was taken in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. Through the generosity of John Jacob ’89, Mr. Muster, Zach Muster, Mr. Szilagyi ’88 and his son, Zander, and Mr. Orsatti and his son, Lucas, attended the Steelers vs Packers preseason game in August. A great game that the Steelers came back to win in the last few minutes! Through the novelty of social media, the Musters and Orsatti’s were able to meet up with aaron Magazine ’14 and his sister. Aaron was at the game because he had submitted to a photo contest of himself as a Pittsburgh fan – and won! Aaron won two tickets to the Steelers game and two tickets to the Pirates game that followed! It was a fantastic afternoon, a Kiski Reunion in Pittsburgh, made possible for the Musters, Szilagyi’s and Orsattis through John Jacob’s kindness.

Florida High School Athletic Association representing Hillsborough County. Coach Flash as his players know him is also in his second year as a Program Director for the Fishhawk Coyotes Youth Lacrosse Club. He is also Head Coach of the U13 Boys and assistant for the U11 and U9 Boys teams. Two of his sons, Tate and Alec play for the Coyotes as well. Tate, rising 8th grader, leads his team as a joureyman long stick middie, short-stick defensive middie and close defenseman, while younger brother Alec runs close defense and sees time as back-up goalie.

2000s

Brett Wolfson ’91 became Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy. He thanks the Kiski community in providing the values and education to make this happen.

Zach Barbieri ’07 is the taproom manager of the Brew Gentlemen Beer Company in Braddock with classmate tom Garzarelli ’07. The beer company was featured in a 71-minute documentary chronicling the ups and downs of two budding beer companies as they planned and opened their new facilities. www.bloodsweatbeermovie.vhx.tv www.brewgentlemen.com.

allan Molina ’93 and his wife, welcomed a baby girl, Claudina Molina in November 2014. Jeff Kozub ’93 is currently located in Al Jubail, Saudi Arabia, working for the Sadara Chemical Company. Sadara is a joint venture between Dow and Saudi Aramco. This is the largest mega project ever built at one time, and will most likely be the only project like this ever. To put things in perspective, on a daily basis we have over 55,000 contractors on site to assist with the construction effort. When the project is complete, Sadara will have 26 state of the art manufacturing facilities, and it will produce over 3 million tons of product. Total investment on this project is roughly 20 billion dollars, truly an amazing feat. http://sadara.com/en. Brian ellis ’94 and his wife have named their new son Tamas Ellis (named as such in honor of his former teacher and coach at Kiski, Tamas Szilagyi). Tamas was born Sept 8, 2015, at 5 a.m., weighing 5 lbs. 15 oz. Dan Regan, esq. ’94 won the election for Common Pleas Court Judge in Allegheny County. Congratulations. Jeff simmons ’94 coaches at CMU. Malcolm Hill ’12 plays for Geneva College and augie luptak ’13 plays at CMU.

1990s Bradley Gordon ’90 recently completed a successful first season as Head Coach of the Bloomingdale High School Lacrosse Club. The team has received Varsity status and will be one of 13 member schools of the

54

The Kiski School Bulletin

I

2015 A Year in Review

Michael Morelli ’00 ran into brothers from Kiski from being in and out of service. Definitely an involved bunch of Kiski boys. My love to you all. Mmorelli81@gmail.com. Justin Young ’07 was married and he and his wife, Beanie, have a very handsome son, Hao Young.

Kevin Bachovchin ’07 and his wife, Elaine, were married on February 1, 2015. He is completing his Ph.D. in computer science at CMU. Garret poston ’08 and Doug McDonald ’08, Kiski roommates, are now roommates living in Pittsburgh. They traveled through Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and California, taking this selfie somewhere near the continental divide.

Headmaster Brueningsen and Marcus Muster were in London for a conference over Spring Break. While there, they had dinner with Hubert Dagbo ’08, philipp Meindl ’08, and nik ueker ’08.

2010s

We would like to congratulate two-time All-American, evan Henderson ’11, for capturing his national wrestling title as a member of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. Congrats Evan and good luck in 2016!


UPDATe yoUR CoNTACT iNFoRMATioN, especially emails, to receive information from Kiski. Send all updates to advancement@kiski.org or call Kim Matvey at 724-639-8029. Colynn Cook ’11 /USNA ’15 and Dominic Chumich ’11 /USNA ’15 graduated from the United States Naval Academy in May. pattric Davis ’11 graduates from Gustavus College and is now attending Boston College to receive a dual Masters/Ph.D. degree in Mental Health. Dong Hyun Kim ’11 had a great experience working for World Vision International in the country of Vanuatu. He worked in their office most of the time, but he did get to help communities on several islands and as he states “I really loved my time there. I visited many communities.”

Miller Hepler ’13 (fourth from left) singing on stage at Swasey Chapel at Denison University after being inducted into the Denison Hilltoppers.

Prior to returning to Franklin & Marshall College, former varsity golfer and Head Prefect Bobby Gaston ’14 met up with members of this year’s Varsity Golf squad and Mr. Orsatti to play a round of golf at Totteridge Golf Club. It was great for the boys to exchange stories about the 2014-15 school year at Kiski and Bobby’s freshman year at F&M. Bobby and Zach Muster (Head Prefect ’15-’16) were able to discuss the joys and challenges of being Head Prefect. They finished the day off with barbeque from Domenick’s in Greensburg followed by a traditional ice cream stop at DQ. Playing from the blue tees (6659 yards), Mark Goetz was the low score for the day. Ben, TJ and Zach were in the 80s and Noah was close behind in the low 90s. Score results for alumni and coach are being withheld due to proprietary restrictions — but Bobby shot way better than Mr. Orsatti. James schmidt ’14 presented at the 2015 TEDx University of Glasgow Event. https://youtu.be/ G1bgdwC_m-Y

andrew Goetz ’14 Kiski class valedictorian, attends the U.S. Coast Guard Academy treated his parents, Brian and Carla, to a sailing adventure on the Atlantic Ocean. Andrew and his classmates did the technical work, manning the sails and jib. The next day, Andrew and the members of the USCGA Sailing Team competed in and won first place at a local regatta competition.

As a result of the kindness of Kyle Depasquale’s ’15 grandfather, Scott Hines, several Kiski Varsity golfers and an alumnus (dad) shared a great round of golf at the challenging Champion Lakes Golf Club. Mark Goetz ’17, tJ usher ’17, Ben Gardner ’17, Ben’s dad, Bill Gardner ’82 and Mr. Orsatti played this beautiful course from the blue tees (6608 yards). Mark and TJ teamed up against Ben, Bill and Mr. O – and won – with Mark Goetz shooting just one over par for the day! Ben was next with an 84 and TJ followed close behind. Mr. Hines was unable to join us for the day, but TJ’s grandfather, Tom Usher, and Mark’s dad, Brian Goetz, were able to share the 19th hole with us. We all thank Mr. Hines for making this little Kiski Golf Reunion/Outing so much fun at such a great course!

Faculty and Staff We would like to congratulate our Headmaster Chris Brueningsen and his wife, Megan neumeister, as they welcomed a daughter, Meredith Anne, on Friday, June 12, weighing 8lbs, 9 oz. Meredith joins her big brother, Sam. Mark Rhodehamel and his wife Laura, welcomed their fourth child on October 6 at 1:41 a.m. Luca Fonzi Rhodehamel weighed 6 lbs. 5oz.

Former Kiski math teacher and multiple sport coach, larry Kelly, and his wife, Carol, who worked in the library and generously shared her tremendous talents as a Master Gardener, beautifying our campus, visited Kiski on Jan 2 and 3, 2015. In the photo, they met for breakfast with current teachers and old friends, David lane, Marcus Muster, and Mark orsatti. The Kelly’s are actively enjoying a great retirement in southwestern Ohio.

Memorials

The Kiski family extends heartfelt condolences to the families of our community: n

James Domino ’43 passed away December 27, 2014. David Caswell “Cas” Devey ’11 passed away January 5, 2015. n Robert Johnston ’51 passed away January 26, 2015. n William Henry Mead V ’51 passed away January 26, 2015. n Bernard P. McLaughlin passed away January 31, 2015. n Geoffrey Sugden ’72 passed away February 2015. n Harding G. Williams ’48 passed away March 20, 2015. n William F. Repovz ’47 passed away August 10, 2015. n Allan Gunderson ’51 passed away August 31, 2015. n Wilma Busi Rudolph, friend of Kiski passed away September 2, 2015. n John A. Robertshaw Jr., friend of Kiski passed away September 12, 2015. n David Williams ’60 passed away September 15, 2015. n Nondita Mason, wife of Bryant Mason ’62, passed away September 25, 2015. n Past Parent and Kiski friend, Rose Hoffman, mother of Randall Hoffman ’70 passed away October 14, 2015. n Horst Koenig, former Kiski faculty member passed away October 27, 2015. n Beverly Rumbaugh passed away October 28, 2015. n

The Kiski School

I

www.kiski.org

55


elegy for JeFF suGDen ’72 Memorial Service at The Kiski School – By Timothy K. Lewis ’72

Heavenly Father, we assume you have had a lot on your hands ever since Jeff passed away. And we understand. After all, it is no coincidence that we chose June 6, D-Day, to commemorate his passing. Because if by chance he hasn’t arrived yet; if his spirit has been waiting for those who loved him to gather for this final farewell, your realm is about to be invaded by a force whose magnitude we were wholly inadequate to measure here on earth. But for your sake, God, we will do our best to measure it today anyway. In doing so, we believe it is fitting and proper to offer not just an entreaty on his behalf, but some insight into our beloved friend and his idiosyncrasies. This, we hope, might assist you in maintaining the eternal peace we hope we are greeted with when our time comes. In other words, please don’t let him wreck the room before we get there! As I said, he is a force of nature the likes of which even you, The Almighty, will rarely see. Our first piece of advice is to get him some running shoes – immediately. He is, as you must know, a bundle of competitive energy. It is important to properly direct this. You see, from his early teens, he was like an untamed wild stallion who refused to be broken but could run like the wind. He just needed the right guidance, and he still does. If you have any runners up there from Western Reserve or Shady Side, just put them on the track next to him and let them go. And if he’s really gotten on your nerves (since, after all, this is for eternity), just let them run for a couple of centuries or so. He’ll be right at home, smiling, sweating, and swearing the entire time. And he’ll probably take a bow and then a victory lap afterward, arms raised in eternal triumph.

56

You will notice immediately that he gets this very intense look sometimes, as if he is willing to challenge even you, the Almighty! It’s almost a little scary. And it may come with a raised brow and an eyeball-to-eyeball, in your face stare. Don’t worry and don’t be intimidated. He has always been full of attitude. It is what fuels him. But he is quite harmless, really, and actually endearing if you have the patience. Try to understand at all times, God, that you are receiving a Champion. A Thoroughbred. A Winner. I know this because I was next to him as this identity was formed at a School whose primary mission was to allow boys to discover who they are. But as you know, because you teach us, we all must lose, too. And his identity was also formed in adversity. So while humility will rarely be on display, understand that it is there and it is sincere. He will talk incessantly, whether he knows what he’s talking about or not. It will drive you crazy. And his laugh, and some of the things he laughs at, will from time to time get on your nerves. He gets a little out of control sometimes. When this happens, just get him some tickets to a heavenly concert – B.B. King recently arrived, so that is a good start. But really, just about any concert will do. Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Lou Reed – whatever – just find some way to keep him occupied musically until Ian Anderson and Jethro Tull arrive. Music is his real pacifier. And put him on stage with a bass guitar. Even if he doesn’t know the song, he’ll do a great job pretending he does with a sly, ear to ear, mischievous grin. Now, and this is very important, God, if all else fails, there is one person you can always turn to and I promise he will be there to take over anytime. I know the Headmaster is busy, but Jack Pidgeon will drop everything to keep the one he affectionately referred to as “The All-American American” properly contained. And no one knows how to do it better than he because no one knows Jeff better than he. He loved him, he coached him, he taught him, he formed him. And his most important lesson, the one he recited to Jeff over and over again on the track and later in life, was to “Stride it in.” “Stride it in” is not just a running technique on the last turn of the last lap in a race; it is a metaphor for grace under pressure, for finding character when everything else is falling apart. It means “no matter what has happened along the way, and no matter how far ahead or how far behind you may be, finish this race with whatever you have left.” God, we know that Jeff tried to stride it in. We know he did. And we know that he is in your loving arms now. We know he is at peace: running, walking, talking, laughing, resting, loving, inspiring – giving his best. He’s a handful, God, a beautiful, wonderful handful. And we ask that you keep his soul close and bless him, and us, with your awesome and eternal grace, forever and ever. Amen. Top photo: Jeff Sugden ’72. Bottom: Woody Danforth ’72, Eric Hill ’71, and Jeff.


Memorial tribute to aRtHuR R. taYloR Kiski Board of Trustees’ Emeritus July 6, 1935 to December 3, 2015 For many years, Arthur Taylor visited Kiski at least once a year to share his view of the world and to motivate students with his wisdom and sage advice. The Kiski boys looked forward to his visits and enjoyed his honesty, wit, kindness, and his willingness to share his life-long experiences and stories. Taking time from his busy schedule was deeply appreciated by the Kiski community. Everyone on campus knew that when Mr. Taylor came and spoke, we were in for a treat. His knowledge spanned the globe and his stories kept his audience hanging on the edge of their seats. When he was finished with his talk, we could only hope that he would stay around for a while to have some more conversation. Arthur Taylor meant a great deal to our School and its students. In 2009 he was awarded a Kiski Honorary Diploma and along with it, he was given the following citation: Accomplished businessman, distinguished educator, patron of worthy causes: your personal integrity and passionate pursuit of excellence have led you to accomplish great things. Born and raised in Rahway, New Jersey, you earned a scholarship to Brown University, where you graduated Phi Beta Kappa with an undergraduate degree in Renaissance history and a master’s degree in U.S. economic history. You began your business career at The First Boston Corporation where you served as Vice-President. Later, you were the Executive VicePresident and Chief Financial Officer of International Paper Company. In 1972, you were appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of CBS where you were responsible for all company operations including the CBS Television Network, CBS News, and the recorded music and publishing business. You were well-known for your efforts to promote family-oriented viewing, always encouraging broadcasters to take responsibility for the impact of their programming on the public, especially children. True to this commitment, you founded the Entertainment Channel, now called the Arts and Entertainment Network, and offered high-quality television to the American people. For seven years, you served at the Dean of the Graduate School of Business Administration at Fordham University before being appointed President of Muhlenberg College in 1992. Your tremendous vision brought Muhlenberg to new heights. With your beloved wife Kathryn, you were distinguished by your focus on students. During your tenure, the college nearly tripled its endowment, halved its debt, and saw a spectacular rise in student quality. Your relationship with Kiski began when you visited our campus in 2002. It was immediately apparent that Kiski’s core values were perfectly aligned with the principles for which you stood your entire life, and your friendship with our School was born. As a member of our Board of Trustees, you have supported Kiski by means of your counsel, your sponsorship, and your passionate promotion of our ideals. We salute your dignity, your wit, and your strength, and we welcome you as a permanent member of our community. Accordingly, by the authority of the Board of Trustees of the Kiskiminetas Springs School, I hereby declare you the recipient of this honorary degree, entitled to all the rights, honors, and privileges appertaining thereto.

2009: Arthur Taylor, Headmaster Chris Brueningsen, Michael yukevich Jr. ’60 and James Moore ’71.

Mr. Taylor was the guest speaker at Kiski’s 2009 Senior Banquet. The following is an excerpt from his remarks, “I have seen people who have spent their lives treating others as they would want to be treated themselves. They die, generally with a certain peace. I have known others, wealthy beyond anyone’s wildest dreams, so corroded and hollowed out by being so shrewd and focused on grabbing everything on the table, they could not love or be loved. They die hard.” The Kiski community knows that Mr. Taylor’s character, integrity, willingness to share, treatment of others, and most of all the way he loved, leaves him resting in peace. The Kiski community will deeply miss Mr. Taylor. He has made an everlasting imprint on many, many lives. Mr. Taylor is survived by his second wife, the former Kathryn Pelgrift; three daughters from his first marriage, Martha Josephson, Anne Madden, and Sarah Rountree; and four grandchildren. n


Save the Date •

ADMISSION OPEN HOUSE

April 30, 2016 • TH

128 COMMENCEMENT

May 27, 2016 •

REUNION WEEKEND

June 4–5, 2016 •

KISKI GOLF OUTING

October 10, 2016 •

HOMECOMING

September 24, 2016 •

The Kiski School 1888 Brett Lane Saltsburg, PA 15681

Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Greensburg, PA Permit No. 88


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Fall/Winter 2015 Bulletin by The Kiski School - Issuu