Director of Communications and Marketing llipsky@pennington.org
Communications Team
Michael Russo, digital media marketing associate
Jennifer Taverney, publications manager
Monica Vagnozzi Vogel, senior graphic designer
Robert E. Martini Associate Head of School
Chad Bridges
Assistant Head of School for Advancement and Strategic Initiatives
Charles D. Brown
Director of Admission and Financial Aid
Sharon Jarboe
Head of Middle School
Maria Capelle-Burny
Head of Upper School
Scott Peeler
Contributing Writers
Peter Chase, Maria Capelle-Burny, Lida Castro, Jane Bott Childrey ’89, Ken Coakley, Alison Dauer P’30, Marty Dauer P’30, Don Dolan, Dolores Eaton, William S. Hawkey, Suzanne Houston, Anna Intartaglia, Tracy Kuser, Lori Lipsky, Amy Sullivan P’31, Jennifer Taverney
Contributing Photographers/Artists
Dolores Eaton, Anna Intartaglia, Isabel Berko, Maria CapelleBurny, Sean Chandrasaputra ’25, Jacqui Coppola, Jennifer DeLorenzo, Susy Kim, Alex Lyttle, Patrick Murphy ’80, Michael Russo, Mike Schwartz, Peter Secrest ’13, Jennifer Taverney, Monica Vagnozzi Vogel, Becket Washburn ’26, Nate Van Yperen, Shengkai (Tim) Wang ’28
Printing: RoyerComm Prism
The Pennington School 112 West Delaware Avenue, Pennington, NJ 08534 609.737.1838 | www.pennington.org
The Pennington School admits students of any race, religion, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression or identity, physical disability, national and ethnic origin, or sexual orientation in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and financial aid programs, employment policies, and athletic and other School-administered programs.
The Pennington School is committed to developing individual excellence in all of its students.
FEATURES
WHAT'S YOUR IMPACT?
Dr. Hawkey invites the community to consider how we each contribute and make a difference in the world.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT:
Dario Quiros ’57 honors his mother and her belief in the power of education with a special gift to The Pennington School.
PEER LEADERSHIP:
Led this year by two faculty members who are Pennington alumni, this program is stronger than ever.
SMARTER LEARNING:
Discover how AI is shaping the student experience at Pennington.
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Every day at The Pennington School our students grow, explore, and discover their potential. Your support helps make these moments possible.
Driven by our community, The Pennington Fund is our most essential source of annual support. It provides our students and teachers with the tools they need to reach for individual excellence.
YOUR GIFT MATTERS. YOUR PARTICIPATION COUNTS. YOUR IMPACT IS IMMEDIATE.
Visit us online at www.pennington.org/givingday or scan the QR code to learn more.
For more information, please contact Director of the Pennington Fund Traci Scott Karro at traci.scottkarro@pennington.org or 609.559.5554
A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear Pennington Friends,
The opening of a new school year is always a magical time for me. Faculty and staff meetings, new students joining in preseason activities, returning students reuniting with old friends and teachers, and the first day of classes all begin again after another summer break. Convocation (see pages 12-13) officially signaled the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year. The student speakers, one from Upper School and one from Middle School, are selected randomly, and this year, Saniya Bhanote ’26 and Grady Meader ’30 were on stage. Student speakers at the opening ceremony of a new school year bring out the best in what is truly a Pennington family experience. In the unlucky position of batting clean-up after some amazing speeches, I introduced my theme (shout-out to Mr. Lyle Rigg) for the year: “What’s Your Impact?” I asked our community to consider the smaller, everyday gestures that can brighten a person’s day. Mr. Rigg did this with handwritten notes that became treasured keepsakes. Dean Liwosz had the uncanny ability to find a student who needed someone to believe in them when others hadn’t—a true champion of the “underdog.” I’m a big believer in the small actions that affirm dignity, a sense of belonging, and the value of each individual.
One action we took this year to give students a greater sense of connection to the Pennington community was adding a new period to our daily schedule, the Morning Advisory Period, or MAP. It has proven to be a great success, and you can read more about it on pages 22-23.
And something we did for the staff at Pennington was to offer some important professional training. As part of our ongoing exploration of artificial intelligence in education, all staff members participated in a professional development program led by an expert on AI initiatives in independent schools. This full-day session, on October 29, introduced practical, high-impact AI tools designed to save time, streamline workflows, and reduce repetitive tasks across departments. The training also addressed critical topics such as AI safety, data privacy, and the responsible use of AI-generated content, ensuring that our faculty and staff are equipped to use these tools thoughtfully and effectively. For more about our AI initiatives to support our students, see the article on pages 62-65.
I hope you enjoy reading these articles, as well as many more, in this fall/winter issue.
Yours in Pennington,
William S. Hawkey, PhD | Head of School
WELCOME TO THE NEWEST MEMBERS OF THE PENNINGTON COMMUNITY
Dominic Brunell is the newest addition to the School’s Operations department, where he assumed the role of electrician. Brunell has been in the electrical trade for over forty years and came to Pennington from Educational Testing Service, also known as ETS, where he worked for over three decades.
Gabbi Chwae joined the math department. Chwae earned her BA from Vassar College and most recently taught mathematics and history in Virginia before relocating to New Jersey.
Amanda D’Angelo joined Pennington in November 2024 as a teacher of Compensatory Skills in the Cervone Center for Learning. She received her BA from Stony Brook University and earned a master's degree in special education K-12 and elementary education K-6 from Chestnut Hill. She is currently finishing her post-master's degree at Rowan University. D'Angelo has been a special education educator and interventionist for the past thirteen years and a manager of special education teams for over four years; she oversaw legal
compliance, case management, and intervention programming.
Alumna Michelle Hart ‘07 brings a wealth of experience to her new role as teacher of English. She received her undergraduate degree from Hofstra University and her graduate degree from Rutgers University. Previously, she worked as a full-time editor at O, The Oprah Magazine, and is a professional writer. Hart has published a novel along with articles for The New York Times, The Boston Globe, and The New Yorker
Tyler Kline serves as a new teacher of English within the Upper School. Kline has over seven years of teaching experience in the Central Bucks School District and at local colleges and universities. He earned his BA in secondary English education from the University of Delaware and his MFA in creative writing from New York University.
Adisa Phillips is a teacher of technology, digital citizenship, and media literacy. He earned a BA from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, with a degree in IT and a minor in digital communication and information media. Before
joining Pennington, he worked at Icode Bridgewater, a smaller learning facility for children in grades K-8, where he introduced technology through students' interests, using platforms such as video games and drones. Phillips is also assistant coach for JV girls' soccer and spring track.
Luke Sferra is a teacher of Compensatory Skills in the Cervone Center for Learning. He graduated from Temple University as an English and philosophy double major. He previously worked at The Titusville Academy as a sixth-grade teacher. Sferra teaches LC Algebra 1 and works with students in AST. He also coaches Middle School basketball and is an advisor for the ski club.
Jane Wilson joined the Middle School as the new sixth-grade English and history teacher. Previously, she taught middle school English at Chapin for twenty years. She earned her BFA in acting from Boston University and an MA in educational theatre and secondary English from NYU. Additionally, Wilson studied for two years at the University of Maryland in Munich, Germany.
Faculty members (left to right): Michelle Hart '07, Jane Wilson, Luke Sferra, Amanda D'Angelo, Adisa Phillips, Gabbi Chwae, Tyler Kline Missing from photo: Dominic Brunell
Scott Peeler was appointed to the new role of head of Upper School at The Pennington School to better align with institutional goals. Peeler brings more than two decades of experience as an educator and academic leader, most recently serving as Pennington’s dean of academic affairs. His career includes leadership roles as upper school director at Mounds Park Academy and academic dean at Stoneleigh-Burnham School, as well as department chair and teacher at both Mercersburg Academy and the Collegiate School. With a background in history education and a deep commitment to student growth, faculty development, and program innovation, Peeler is a dedicated leader who will guide the Upper School community with vision and integrity.
Daniel Baverstock joined The Pennington School as chief financial and operating officer in September. Baverstock brings to Pennington more than twentyfive years of leadership experience with Deutsche Asset Management, where he served as chief operating officer and chief finance officer, as well as in other key roles across three continents. He received his bachelor’s degree in financial services from Bournemouth University in England. He most recently served as CFO of infrastructure for Deutsche Bank's Investment Company. This new CFOO position reflects Pennington's belief that the financial and operational well-being of a school is closely tied together, and Baverstock is well-equipped to lead both with skill and care.
Middle School students departed on a transformative journey to Utah, where they were able to explore and connect with the iconic landscapes of Arches, Canyonlands, and Zion National Parks—while engaging in a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rafting, swimming, and rock climbing. Thanks to the evening circle ritual, which closed each day with mindful reflections, along with the many shared experiences throughout the program, students were able to grow in selfawareness, resilience, and confidence.
UTAH
Throughout the month of June, dozens of students expanded the boundaries of the classroom with dynamic trips that enriched understanding and bolstered independence.
YELLOWSTONE
Upper School students and their faculty chaperones touched down in Bozeman, Montana, for a week-long excursion in Yellowstone. Activities such as rock-climbing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting on the Yellowstone River strengthened friendships and reinforced the importance of teamwork. Students were able to witness Old Faithful erupting and watch bison and elk grazing nearby, forging a deeper connection to the natural world.
Both National Parks adventure trips were made possible by a gift from the parent of
Ten Upper School students headed south to the Carolinas for the “Tar Heel and Palmetto College Tour” with Pennington’s College Counseling team, traveling hundreds of miles and visiting nearly a dozen different schools, including College of Charleston, University of South Carolina, Clemson University, Furman University, Davidson College, High Point University, Wake Forest University, Elon University, Duke University, and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
COLLEGE TOUR
Nearly two dozen Upper School students (all of whom had worked on STEM-based projects throughout the prior year, including a simple water filtration system, low-cost school desks, solar-powered cell phone chargers, and better menstrual products) recently journeyed to Malawi in southeastern Africa. Applied Science Certificate Program Director Susan Wirsig marveled at how much the group was able to accomplish during this visit, and she was particularly proud of her students' curiosity and compassion. “They have learned how different cultures live in a low-resource community, how organizations mobilize to support those communities, and how decisions are made to evoke community-based change.”
Pennington reimagined the concept of a summer class with a brand new offering last year: Art I: Drawing Foundations. The four-week course, which began on Pennington’s campus, featured a thrilling international travel component that truly set the program apart. The group split its time between the picturesque town of Loches, its surrounding regions, and Paris. Saint-Denis International
Students of Spanish in Grades 9 and 10 traveled to Valencia, Spain, for four weeks of language immersion while living with host families. They attended Spanish classes in the morning at a local language school and participated in cultural activities in the afternoon. Although a faculty member traveled with the group, students enjoyed an independent experience and returned with greater language proficiency as well as many stories to tell.
School in Loches served as the initial home base for the group. With so much beauty to explore in the region, the “classroom” was an ever-shifting space amid breathtaking pastoral hills, architectural marvels, and quaint village wonders. The group enjoyed exploring the dungeon of a small medieval castle, the workshop of an 85-year old printmaker, and endless fields of sunflowers.
SPAIN FRANCE
THE PENNINGTON SCHOOL formally opened its 188th academic year with its annual Convocation ceremony on Friday, September 5. The Class of 2026 led the student procession in descending grade order, concluding with Middle School’s Class of 2032.
After welcoming remarks from Peter Tucci, chair of the Pennington School Board of Trustees, there were greetings from various School constituencies, beginning with Head of Upper School and Teacher of History Scott Peeler, who reflected on his lifelong love of learning.
In his Convocation address, Head of School William S. Hawkey, PhD, spoke about his love for the fall season and the community’s return to campus. “One of the many beautiful things about a new school year is the opportunity it presents to have a fresh start. It’s a chance to unlock potential, to try something new, grow in wisdom and in friendship, and to create the connections that will carry us well into the future.” He also presented his theme for the year, “WHAT'S YOUR IMPACT?” Hawkey challenged every member of the Pennington community to reflect on the influence they have on others and on the world and to consider the legacy they hope to leave behind.
CONVOCATION
“I urge you to be deliberate about the impact you make, choose to speak up for what’s right, use your voice to advocate for fairness and kindness, share your talents to inspire and uplift others, and seek opportunities to build bridges.”
—Dr. William S. Hawkey, Head of School
What's Your
IMPACT?
By Jennifer Taverney
FROM CRISPLY LINED ATHLETIC FIELDS TO THE MIDDLE SCHOOL POLO SALE, SUREFIRE SIGNS OF FALL HERALD ANOTHER SCHOOL YEAR, UNDERSCORED ANNUALLY AT CONVOCATION WITH A SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL. On a warm Friday evening, under the tent on O’Hanlon Green, Dr. William Hawkey introduced his theme for the 2025-26 academic year: “What’s Your Impact?" Hawkey’s inspiration came from former Head of School Lyle Rigg and former Dean of Students and longtime teacher Tom Liwosz.
“What strikes me most,” mused Hawkey, “is that their influence didn’t usually come from big, dramatic moments. Instead, it came from the small, everyday gestures that spoke volumes. That’s the kind of impact I love.“ Hawkey added, “...the power of small actions that affirm dignity, belonging, and value.”
In the days that followed, Hawkey’s words echoed across campus as faculty, students, and staff alike discussed what those words might
Influence didn’t usually come from big, dramatic moments. Instead, it came from the small, everyday gestures that spoke volumes. That’s the kind of impact I love—the power of small actions that affirm dignity, belonging, and value.
DR. WILLIAM HAWKEY
mean to them. Teacher of Latin William Dingee noted that while the word “impact” has its origins in the physical—the clashing of two bodies—it later came to encompass a more spiritual or emotional meaning. “Compared to synonyms like ‘impression’ or ‘influence,’" Dingee said "‘impact’ often retains an idea of boldness and directness. I know that many of the things I tell students day in and day out in my classes will not stay with them through the next five, ten, or fifty years. But I also know that a well-aimed, original, engaging lesson stands the best chance of lodging in the long-term memory. I do hope my best lessons manage to do just that.”
Middle School students took the theme to heart, reflecting back pure messages of hope. “People who have made an impact in my life are my family,” said Baxter Sandoval ’31, “and I would like to
Most of the impacts we have are ones we’ll never know. The little things we do really can matter.
LEN LEIB
make an impact in the same way—by spreading acts of kindness to others.” Nate Hall ’30 shared his excitement to serve at the summer camp he has attended for three years. Now 14, Nate can take on new responsibilities. “I’m looking forward to making an impact by serving in the kitchen and, later, as a counselor-in-training, being a leader and a mentor to the younger children.”
For faculty member Len Leib, the measure of impact is time itself. Years of teaching have given him a long view—one where influence is often invisible until, suddenly, it isn’t. “Most of the impacts we have are ones we’ll never know,” he said. “The little things we do really can matter.” His reflections—peppered with stories of students returning to visit, calling, or writing to say thank you—are a testament to a teacher’s enduring legacy: “The aggregation of all the big, small, visible, and hidden positive impacts that I have contributed to the lives of my students.”
In the Upper School, Muhan Tian ’27 believes impact comes from consistency and care. “I learned that making an impact doesn’t necessarily mean accomplishing something big,” she reflected. “It can be the small things we encounter daily.” As a Junior Proctor, she meets with Middle Schoolers every Friday morning, checking in on their week and listening to their concerns. Muhan’s impact is strong evidence that leadership first begins in presence; showing up truly matters. “I hope to make an impact that brings joy to others, helps them succeed, and contributes to positive change in the community.”
“Communities like Pennington are only as strong as the people who represent them,” said Jackie Rivera, director of diversity, equity, and inclusion. “We all play a role in shaping the culture, traditions, and connections that make Pennington what it is.” Rivera expressed her hope that cultivating strong relationships and good personal character can have a positive impact in the community. She believes that kindness and respect, practiced daily, “go further than any single program or initiative.”
Having recently co-championed a community-wide fundraising event, Ami “Malachai” Ly ’26, believes in the power of collaboration when it comes to making an impact. “Trying to have an impact is even more meaningful and effective when you don’t go at it alone,” she
said. The success of her initiative, she discovered, was the result of trusting her community to care just as deeply as she did. The collective effort was incredibly successful, yielding a substantial financial impact in support of the Relay for Life charity.
Beyond the classrooms and dorms, other members of the Pennington community explored the theme. Tracy Rodriguez, who serves as the assistant to both the chief financial and operating officer and the director of human resources, finds joy and reward in connection: “I make it a point to remember names, check in with people, and share a smile whenever I see them. These small gestures reflect the supportive and welcoming culture our community embodies.”
Down in the dining hall, server Dolores Wade Phillips has her own quiet way of demonstrating care. “When a student who comes in is new or shy or having a bad day, I try to put on a new look that is extra
friendly and welcoming,” she said.
“You might think these little things aren’t noticeable, but they can have a major impact.” Her philosophy is simple: kindness first, cleanup later.
“If they spill something or break a plate, my first instinct is to make them feel okay about it. The priority is to diffuse their embarrassment— then we can clean up the mess,” shared Phillips.
Woven within these diverse Pennington voices is a shared understanding that impact is not defined by scale, but by sincerity and intentionality. “Every choice we make shapes the kind of impact we leave behind. When we act with intention, we can guide that impact in a positive direction. Don’t be a passive passenger on the Pennington train—it’s far more rewarding to be a leader and explorer,” urged Hawkey. With his theme as a guiding compass for the year, Pennington’s story is one that will continue to be written through its people.
Trying to have an impact is even more meaningful and effective when you don’t go at it alone.
EXCHANGE STUDENTS VISIT PENNINGTON
In September, we welcomed the arrival of the first visiting exchange group of the academic year. Eighteen students from the Salésian School in Sherbrooke, Quebec, representing Grades 9 through 11, visited as part of a soccer and French language exchange. During their stay, nine of these students were matched with members of Pennington’s boarding community and lived in our dormitories, while the other half of the group was placed with host families.
Additionally, the Pennington community welcomed eleven students and two chaperones from Iceland’s Verzló School from September 27 to October 4, as part of the return exchange from our trip to that region last spring. The students stayed with host families, shadowed Pennington classes, and visited the Statue of Liberty, Philadelphia, and New York City during their trip. Pennington also welcomed an exchange student from Colegio Anglo Colombiano in Bogotá, Colombia. Gabriel joined Pennington students in Grade 10 from October 10 to November 21, living in town with the Medina family; recent Pennington graduate Lucas Medina ’25 traveled to Colombia last year as part of his Horizon internship, and Gabriel’s visit this fall was part of a reciprocal exchange. Pennington also hosted three students from St. Paul's School in Barcelona for a semester exchange; Emma Schmidt '27 traveled to Colombia for an exchange with the English school in Bogotá.
BETTER KITCHEN SINK STUDENTS PRESENT WATER FILTER
On September 11, students from The Better Kitchen Sink project presented their patent-pending water filter solution at the Eastern Water Quality Association convention. They engaged with industry professionals and pitched for funding to support a 2026 pilot that will bring clean water to 50 families in a Malawian village. Representing the team were alumnus Avery Sichel ’22, along with Ella Chen ’28, Shubh Gangrade ’26, and Ishaan Khetarpal ’26. Congratulations to the team on this incredible achievement!
PINE BARRENS FIELD TRIP
On Thursday, October 9, all students taking Environmental Science and Ecology this year participated in a day-long environmental field trip to the New Jersey Pine Barrens. This trip was designed as part of Dr. Margo Andrews’s yearlong course. The group was led by experienced guides from Pinelands Adventures, and they spent the day on and around the water at the Rancocas Cranberry Preserve. Guides and faculty chaperones provided students with a basic paddling lesson before they got on the water in either kayaks or canoes; no prior experience was required. Students also spent some time exploring the preserve on foot as they learned about the ecological restoration underway. It was a spectacular October day to explore the unique ecosystems of the Pine Barrens.
CUM LAUDE
On Tuesday, October 14, twelve seniors were inducted into the Cum Laude Society. Lisa Houston inducted the students and Dr. Lida Castro awarded their certificates. Founded in 1906, the Cum Laude Society is dedicated to honoring scholastic achievement in secondary schools. Membership is determined by grade-point average and comprises the top ten percent of the graduating class. Another set of inductees will be inducted in the spring. Fall inductees are: Katherine Dwyer, Ishaan Khetarpal, Sofia Kulp, Angelyn Li, Ami Ly, Kerri Moran, Kian Phillips, Sanjana Ramalingam, Zara Meehan-Ritter, Brett Sirolly, Nishka Vyas, and Yanxin (Minnie) Wu.
STUDENT RESEARCH SHOWCASED AT MARYLAND CONFERENCE
Yanxin (Minnie) Wu ’26 presented her original research at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the Classical Association of the Atlantic States in Maryland in early October. Wu’s paper, entitled “From Enslaved to Empowered: How Roman Freedwomen Transformed Their Lives During the Augustan Age,” was developed during her Honor’s Research Seminar with Gretchen Overhiser. Most papers at the conference are given by academics and graduate students.
PENNINGTON SENIORS NAMED AS COMMENDED STUDENTS IN THE 2026 NATIONAL MERIT® SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The seniors listed below all received letters of commendation for demonstrating exceptional academic promise through their outstanding performance on the preliminary SAT qualifying test last fall. According to a spokesperson for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, “These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation. We hope that this recognition will help broaden their educational opportunities and encourage them as they continue their pursuit of academic success.” Congratulations to our students on this achievement! Aiyan Doshi, Cecelia Embleton, Angelyn Li, Ami Ly, Zara Meehan-Ritter, Samik Mookherjee, Sanjana Ramalingam, Rishabh Ramaswamy, Brett Sirolly, Nishka Vyas, and Yanxin (Minnie) Wu
PRESS CONFERENCE
A group of students from Rachel Burke’s Journalism class and the Penntonian club attended the Columbia Scholastic Press Association Fall Conference on Monday, November 3, at Columbia University. Students were able to choose from more than 60 in-person sessions that offered important training, useful strategies, and meaningful networking opportunities. Shengkai (Tim) Wang ’28 wrote, ”Student journalists from The Penntonian attended the 85th CSPA and participated in conference sessions with other students and experts in the field, covering topics ranging from writing to photojournalism, podcasting, media law, and visual design. The trip provided students with the opportunity to explore a range of pressrelated passions, connect with one another while exploring the vibrant surrounding area, and develop creative ideas for the publication and club in the future.”
PENN MUSEUM FIELD TRIP
Twenty-one students from the Pennington Latin program traveled to Philadelphia on November 11 to visit the Penn Museum's world-class collection, which focuses on archaeology and anthropology. Students completed a scavenger-hunt activity to find different kinds of artifacts around the museum, participated in a workshop with an archaeologist about Minoan Crete, and were guided through a tour of the Roman, Greek, and Etruscan collections. Students were able to form connections with these artifacts that supported both what they have been learning in Latin classes and in the broader Pennington curriculum. Reflecting on the trip, Ana Latronica ’29 wrote: "My favorite artifact was the piece of ceramic stone with a portion from the Epic of Gilgames h because we have been learning about ancient Mesopotamia in my history class, and we are also covering the Epic of Gilgamesh. This was an interesting find for me!"
GLOBAL SEAL OF BILITERACY RECOGNITION
On November 17, during Community Meeting, the World Languages department was proud to recognize students who have demonstrated proficiency in two languages by earning the Global Seal of Biliteracy. This is an internationally recognized credential that showcases a student’s dedication, intercultural competence, and ability to communicate across cultures. Last spring, the department administered the STAMP4s language proficiency test to level III classes in French, German, and Spanish. Congratulations! Grade 12: Henry Armstrong, Allison Howe, Caiden O’Connell, and Logan Oster; Grade 11: Adriana Cano, Haokai (Harry) Cao, Maia Davis, Ainsley Hardt, Logan Hyndman, Mara Killeen, Katharina Koppenhofer, Leonardo Lennox, Honghe (King) Liu, Bella Murray, Sara Surtz, and Laila Wingfield; Grade 10: Christopher Freeland, George Guillermo, Eerah Murumkar, Harry Mysliwiec, and Sagan Tighe.
MODEL UN COMPETITION
Twenty students represented Pennington at the Rutgers University Model United Nations fall competition on November 20. Model UN is a global organization that provides high school and university students opportunities to debate global issues, learn more about international affairs, practice diplomacy, and seek answers to the world's most pressing problems in a simulation of a United Nations General Assembly meeting. Rutgers's Model UN competition draws nearly a thousand students from around the country. Pennington represented Ukraine, after preparing for weeks, which brought real-world urgency to their participation. The central theme of the conference was "Navigating Security and Stability in the Digital Age."
Academic News
Lisa Houston hosts her morning advisory meeting from her office in the MMAC building. Pennington
MAPPING OUT SUCCESS
Pennington’s Morning Advisory Brings Structure and Connection to Each Day
STARTING THIS ACADEMIC YEAR, every day of classes now begins with a Morning Advisory Period (MAP), during which students meet with their advisors to prepare for the day ahead. This dedicated time includes placing phones in lockers, ensuring dress code compliance, and reviewing important campus updates from the Voice
During MAP, advisory groups gather together with all members to get settled for the day ahead. These morning meetings are brief but productive. Directory of Advisory and Student Activities Lisa Houston says, ”One of my hopes for MAP was to provide a more structured place to review student activity opportunities in the Voice; I credit an increase in student engagement in clubs and community events such as Coffeehouses and Homecoming to the fact that advisors can talk about and remind students of the wealth of opportunities for them at Pennington. Academically, I think advisors are better able to confer with their advisees about progress in classes or Veracross points when they see each other every day, versus once a week. As an advisor, I notice my group has become more supportive and empathetic toward one another; if someone comes in frazzled or tired, the group builds them up and helps them get on track for the day.”
During the longer Advisory period each week, held during the scheduled “special” block on Thursdays, groups engage in a
variety of discussions and activities, including setting and monitoring academic and personal goals, discussing relevant issues, playing games, and planning community service activities. Advisory groups foster a sense of comfort, trust, and camaraderie among their members, contributing to the personal growth of each student. We believe that starting the day with connection and structure sets a positive tone, and MAP offers an ideal moment to build community, ask questions, or check in with an advisor. It’s also a time to share positive energy and encouragement before the school day gets underway.
An informal survey of the Pennington community reveals that, overall, MAP has added a focused structure to the beginning of the day that benefits students. Upper School Dean of Students Samantha SternLeaphart affirms, “I'd say that MAP has been a great success; while I know change can be challenging at first, this change has led to clear positives — consistent and timely attendance at morning classes, stronger messaging, and better understanding of schedules, expectations, dress code, etc. Essentially, everyone is on the same page each day, and students are able to have a consistent touch point with their advisors and peers about what's going on during Special, reminders about events during the week, and, most importantly, an opportunity to build community with their advisory group.”
MS LAUNCH
On Tuesday, September 2, and Wednesday, September 3, a new group of Junior Proctors welcomed all Middle School students back to campus to kick off the 2025-26 school year in style. After a warm welcome as each person arrived, the day began with a large meeting before breaking up into smaller JP groups with about ten Middle Schoolers in each. They played active icebreaker games, enjoyed the sunshine, and formed teams to participate in a scavenger hunt, which helped everyone get to know the campus and each other. Tuesday ended with popsicles provided by PfP (Parents for Pennington), and Wednesday’s big finale included a variety of water activities.
MS RETREAT
On October 8, the entire Middle School traveled to the Princeton-Blairstown Center for their annual retreat. This time together, off campus and in nature, was an awesome opportunity for the MS community to get to know each other better, and have some technology-free fun. The eighth-graders stayed on at PBC for two nights and an additional two days. These days together were exciting and fun, even among the challenging moments, and the group returned to Pennington as a stronger and more united community.
JUNIOR PROCTORS
LEAD ACTIVITIES
EVERY FRIDAY
Friday mornings have been full of energy and creativity for our Middle Schoolers! This fall, they’ve acted out values, built fall-themed creations in team challenges, and joined their JPs for a Homecoming scavenger hunt, solving riddles to track down the Pennington Red Hawk across campus.
THE FALL ACTIVITIES FAIR
Middle School held its first Activities Fair on September 5, while Upper School held one over several days during the second week of school.
MIDDLE SCHOOL SPIRIT WEEK!
Middle Schoolers demonstrated their Pennington Pride during Spirit Week, the week leading up to Homecoming, which fell this year on October 17 and 18 (see pages 32-37).
A TRIP TO SEE THE OUTSIDERS
On October 23, lessons from MS English classes came to life when students took a field trip to New York City to see Broadway’s The Outsiders
HALLOWEEN BOO BASH!
On Friday evening, October 24, PfP sponsored a Boo Bash for all Middle Schoolers. With fun activities, great food, and even a DJ, students celebrated Halloween in style.
LEADERSHIP
The Middle School community voted in October for this year’s student leadership team. The new leaders are Wyatt Ackerman ‘32, Noah Murray ‘32, Logan Gregov ‘31, Eva Rossy ‘31, Ally Moreno ‘31, Emily Zoll ‘30, Grady Meader ‘30, and Levi Upton ‘30.
DAY OF THE DEAD PRESENTATION
On October 28, Mrs. Berko's Spanish class presented their Day of the Dead dioramas to Ms. Wilson’s sixth-grade social studies class. It was a great tie-in with their study of religion, symbols, customs, traditions, and history, and how all of those relate to the cultivation of a strong civilization.
CULTURAL
ASSEMBLY
CALPULLI DANCE
On October 30, the Calpulli Mexican Dance Company stopped by campus for a special performance in celebration of Día de los Muertos. Their visit provided students with an opportunity to experience an inspiring display of traditional Mexican dance and cultural expression.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
COMMUNITY SERVICE
INITIATIVES!
In mid-November, MS families participated in a snack bag challenge to benefit the Princeton Mobile Food Pantry. The goal was to collect enough snacks to make 500 snack bags, which were delivered alongside Thanksgiving meals for local families in need. Students donated snacks throughout the week, and then both students and parents gathered on Saturday, November 15, to decorate and pack the bags. The MS community rose to the challenge, and 500 snack bags were delivered to PMFP!
PRINTMAKING CLASS
FIELD TRIP!
Jamie Moore led his Printmaking class on a field trip to the Princeton Arts Council on December 10. The group enjoyed a personal tour from the print studio manager, Dave Dimarchi, for its current exhibit, The Pull: The Past, Present and Future of Printmaking. Our students were able to apply content knowledge from the course as well as ask interesting questions about the process and the pieces. This field trip happened after students had just cut and printed their first linocut. It was great to have them see how other artists use the elements of design (specifically line and value) to create compositions. The sketches and notes they made during their visit will inspire them to create their next piece, a landscape.
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
COMMUNITY MEETING
On Tuesday, December 16, the Middle School learned about various winter festivals of light during Community Meeting. Students presented about specific French holidays as well as Hanukkah. Students celebrated Hanukkah by lighting the menorah and enjoying homemade latkes with sour cream and applesauce.
MIDDLE SCHOOL Athletics
CROSS COUNTRY
Coach: Alexander Gibbons
Assistant Coach: Isabel Berko
• A massive team of 30 Middle Schoolers came together this season!
• The girls' team took third place in the 1st Annual PDS Invitational
• All runners showed amazing grit; standout runners included: Boys: Leo Guzman ’31, Kellen Cerutti ’32, Grady Meader ’30, Tom McGinnis ’30, Girls: Sophie Naumann ’32, Julia Lawrence ’30, Giuliana Mavellia ’30, Caralina Puleo ’32, Ellie Snyder ’30
SOCCER
Coach: Chauncey Farrington
Assistant Coaches: Peter Puleo and Adisa Phillips
• It was great to see new leaders emerge on the A Team—players who set the tone in practice, encouraged teammates, and led by example all season.
• Players on the B Team made significant strides in skill and selfconfidence, translating effort and persistence into genuine on-field confidence.
• Consistency paid off: players responded well to the coaches’ guidance, and their steady approach all season paid dividends in both individual and team play.
• The A team battled through close matches with grit and composure, while the B team learned to rise to challenges and celebrate small victories, as well as one another.
• The season was defined by energy, sportsmanship, and players who learned to play as a team.
FIELD HOCKEY
Coaches: Jen DeLorenzo and Carleigh Alpert
• Finished the season undefeated at 9–0
• Dominated opponents 41–1 in total goals
• Five players took turns in goal; eight players contributed to scoring
• Twelve of the twenty players were new to the sport—an incredible testament to their teamwork and growth.
A Legacy of Learning: DARIO QUIROS ’57 HONORS HIS MOTHER AND THE PENNINGTON SCHOOL
When Dario Quiros ’57
reflects on his time at The Pennington School, he sees a place that remains much the same today as it was nearly seven decades ago: a community where teachers know their students, character matters as much as intellect, and education changes lives. His journey from Bogotá, Colombia, to a successful career in American finance is a testament to those enduring principles and to the courage of his mother, whose belief in education transformed his future.
Though Quiros’s mother, Cecilia, never received a formal education, she rose to become the director of the largest radio station in Bogotá and instilled in her son an unshakable belief in the power of learning. Motivated by that conviction, she brought young Dario to the United States in 1947 in search of opportunity. “She was fearless,” Quiros recalls. “She believed that education could change everything.”
After challenging experiences in Chicago and New York public schools, Quiros found a true home at Pennington. Supported by a full scholarship, he became a boarding student and flourished under the guidance of caring teachers and mentors. Academically advanced, he was moved up several grade levels until his mother finally insisted that he slow down so he could enjoy a more balanced social life.
Pennington wasn’t just a school; it was a community.” That sense of belonging and mentorship, Quiros believes, continues to define Pennington today. The same values of compassion, personal attention, and high standards that shaped his experience in the 1950s still guide the School’s mission today.
Quiros graduated from Pennington at just fifteen years old and went on to earn degrees from Middlebury College and Columbia University, while also completing military service. Transitioning to a career in finance, he then worked for major firms before founding Hartford Financial Management, a company that now oversees nearly one billion dollars in assets. His business model, a flat-fee structure designed to eliminate conflicts of interest, reflects his lifelong commitment to fairness and service.
Among those who shaped his Pennington experience was faculty member Harold Cragin, who became like family to him. “Hal was the father figure I didn’t have,” Quiros said. “He helped me with sports, college applications, and life.
Today, Quiros’s dedication to giving back echoes the generosity once extended to him. A lifelong donor to Pennington and member of the Francis Harvey Green Society, he and his family established the Cecilia Quiros P’57 Endowed Scholarship Fund at Pennington in his mother’s name in 2024, ensuring that future students—especially those who simply need someone to believe in them—will have the same opportunity to thrive.
“Pennington gave me the foundation for everything,” he says. “It was a wonderful place, and I still have friends from my time there. I want other students to have that same chance, to discover who they are, and to know that hard work can take them anywhere.”
“Pennington gave me the foundation for everything,” he says. “It was a wonderful place, and I still have friends from my time there. I want other students to have that same chance, to discover who they are, and to know that hard work can take them anywhere.”
While visiting campus for Homecoming and Reunion Weekend in 2023, Quiros spoke to the Public History class in Meckler Library's Archives and Special Collections Room.
Homecoming and Reunion Weekend 2025 was one to remember. Take a look back at the celebrations…
PENNINGTON ALUMNI FROM ACROSS GENERATIONS gathered to celebrate milestones, reconnect with friends, and honor traditions. The Class of 1975 marked their 50th Reunion with dinner at Emily’s Café, while the Class of 2020 celebrated their 5th Reunion at the First National Bank on Main Street. Alumni from class years ending in 0s and 5s enjoyed Brews and
Barbecue, with the Class of 1990 winning the Battle for the Bus, and Gold Guard members (classes of 1975 and earlier) came together for their annual luncheon and tour of the Meckler Library Archives and Special Collections Room. The weekend concluded with the All-Alumni Party at Corson House, where alumni of every era celebrated side by side.
Friday night’s Pep Rally set the tone for the weekend as faculty and students came together for an evening of energized student performances. During Homecoming Row on Saturday, student groups and clubs kept the energy high with plenty of refreshments, while fans packed the stands to cheer on the Red Hawks through a full lineup of Homecoming games. Parents for Pennington (PfP) added to the festivities by hosting its annual tailgate celebration.
CONGRATULATIONS!
to this year’s remarkable Alumni Award recipients and Athletic Hall of Fame inductees, who were honored at the Head of School Breakfast during Homecoming and Reunion Weekend.
Three distinguished alumni won awards for their accomplishments and service: Dr. Ashley Disbrow Hood ’10 received the Outstanding Young Alumni Award; Chief Stephen Pegram ’90 was awarded the Alumni Achievement Award; and Dr. Monique Richards Smith ’95 earned the Community Service Award. Blair Thompson was surprised with the Tower Award in addition to his induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame for his 45 years of service to The Pennington School.
CONGRATULATIONS!
This year’s Athletic Hall of Fame inductees included George Goodell, Jr. ’65 (baseball), Kaitlyn Kerr ’10 (basketball and soccer), Renee Washington ’10 (basketball and soccer), and Coach Blair Thompson (football).
Scan this QR code to view more photos from the weekend.
FALL HAPPENINGS
SEPTEMBER 4 Senior Sunrise, now an annual event, took place on Friday, September 5, the first Friday of the new academic year.
SEPTEMBER 22 The residential community held its first formal dinner on Monday night, September 22.
SEPTEMBER 24 A group of fifteen students, accompanied by faculty members Stephanie Cohen and David Hallgren, visited the Trenton Cure Arena to participate in the “Trenton Plates, The World Takes” food service event
SEPTEMBER 25 The Pennington Entrepreneurial Speaker Series (PESS) kicked off with a lively discussion with Nick Bunn ’14, who started his own men’s skincare business while still an undergraduate at Harvard University.
SEPTEMBER 27 The first Coffeehouse of the year was hosted by the Dramatic Society. The theme was Wicked
OCTOBER 7 Hispanic Heritage Month was celebrated by Upper School students in Chapel on October 7.
OCTOBER 8 was Class Connect Day for Grade 9
While Grades 10 and 11 took the PSATs, ninth-graders covered topics including DEI resources, mental health resources, and Pennington’s Honor Code. They participated in an art activity in the morning and discussed Pennington’s AI ethical use guidelines in the afternoon. They topped off the day with Kona Ice and free time at the volleyball court!
OCTOBER 9 We welcomed Mums of Alums to socialize on Old Main’s new front porch!
OCTOBER 21 The Pennington community celebrated the festival of Diwali at Chapel with student speakers, who described their family’s traditions for the holiday. "Diwali is a beautiful reminder to each of us of the importance of light, hope, and community,” said Rev. Hallgren.
OCTOBER 21 Upper School students in the Community Service Club helped out at the Hopewell Valley Mobile Food Pantry.
NOVEMBER 17 The residential community enjoyed a delicious Thanksgiving meal together as part of their monthly formal dinner program.
DECEMBER 6 A group of students had an unforgettable adventure in NYC, attending George Balanchine's The Nutcracker®! Before the show, they enjoyed an engaging talk from our director of admission, Sharon Jarboe, who shared insights into the production’s history, music, and legacy, along with a fun trivia contest for our most attentive participants. We are incredibly grateful to the anonymous donor who made this magical experience possible for our students.
Get
The Pennington School community was treated to presentations by a number of speakers this fall.
OCTOBER 1
Dr. Nina Kaufmans P’23 ’26 spoke to students as part of the Applied Science speaker series She is a mental health counselor, researcher, and educator who shared how science and technology intersect with psychology to promote healing and resilience. Students explored how data, research, and innovation contribute to supporting mental health and emotional well-being.
OCTOBER 9
As part of the Applied Science Speaker Series, Fred Leeds P’26 discussed how his career transitioned from biology/medical technology to his current position, where he leads the North American procurement division for a $11 billion global wine and spirits company.
OCTOBER 15
Nicole Cody P’27, a seasoned nonprofit leader with more than twenty-five years of experience, spoke to Global Studies students about her work as a grant writer and communications coordinator at Anchor House. Cody is deeply committed to raising funds and awareness for nonprofits that benefit young people in the community.
OCTOBER 21
Nicole Mysliwiec P’27 ‘28, a global commercial leader at Merck Pharmaceuticals, spoke to students in the Global Studies certificate program. She has spent her professional career focused on ensuring innovative treatments are available, accessible, and affordable to people around the world.
OCTOBER 23
Pennington's Entrepreneurship Speaker Series welcomed Sarrah Khan P'26 '28 for a talk entitled "Pushing the Boundaries of Design and Engineering." Khan is the principal engineer and co-founder of Agencie, a women- and minorityowned architecture and engineering firm in NYC with over two decades of experience.
OCTOBER 24
Jonathan Embleton P'26 gave a talk entitled: "What does it take to develop a drug?” Embleton is a seasoned pharmaceutical executive with over thirty years of global industry experience. He spoke to Applied Science students about drug discovery, development, and approval processes; the time, costs, and risks involved; the role of pharmaceutical technology; the importance of patents; and the role of generics.
OCTOBER 29
Mike Pietras , a member of Pennington’s Operations department, visited Susan Wirsig’s Design Engineering class to give a lesson on how to safely use a drill and power saw.
NOVEMBER 11
Christy Sommers, is the training and curriculum director for the travel company Where There Be Dragons. Sommers’ talked to GS students about “Colonization, Globalization, and African Wax Fabric.” In her talk, Sommers explored the complex stories behind these fabrics, demonstrating how interconnected our world is and helping us understand the ways in which colonial legacies continue to be felt today.
NOVEMBER
12
Seema Katiyar P’25 '26 spoke to Applied Science students; her talk, entitled “Beyond the Blueprint: Unconventional Paths in STEM,” challenged traditional career assumptions and revealed how analytical thinking and problemsolving can redefine industries. Katiyar is associate director of strategic execution and executive support, rare disease at Novo Nordisk.
DECEMBER
5
Lee Maschler P'26 spoke to Applied Science students about how STEM shapes the future of finance and technology. He revealed how a love for math, problem-solving, and technology led him from his days at Cornell to building several companies at the center of modern markets. Maschler is the founder of Trillium Trading, Trillium Surveyor, as well as the CEO and co-founder of Lion Cave Capital.
DECEMBER
8
Wongchang (Terry) Choi ’13 spoke to Global Studies students about his work as a partner at Amadeo Global, a New York-based investment firm. Choi grew up in South Korea, before coming to Pennington, and then studied hedge fund and private equity strategies at Fordham University's Gabelli School of Business.
DECEMBER
10
Dipal Doshi P’26 spoke to Global Studies students about his work developing intracellular therapies at Entrada Therapeutics, where he serves as CEO. Entrada is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company whose goal is to change the way incurable diseases are treated, transforming the lives of patients and their families.
Join Head of School William S. Hawkey, PhD, in Shanghai, China, for our fourth Asia Alumni Festival. June 19-20,
You’ll explore the magnificent city of Shanghai with your fellow alumni in between networking sessions, presentations by special speakers, and award celebrations. For additional information, please contact Jane Bott Childrey ’89, director of alumni relations, at jane.childrey@pennington.org or 704-517-7324.
2025 UPPER SCHOOL FOOTBALL
FALL ATHLETICS
Head Coach: Mike Watkins
Assistant Coaches: Blair Thompson, Adam Cooley, David Hallgren, David Harrison, Tom Bock, Gary Postell, Mike Sands
• 2025 MAPL Champions/First MAPL Championship in Football!
• Four seniors are signing football scholarships: AJ Cartusciello (Wagner), Nisaiah Maldonado (Bryant), Bryce Werner (Lehigh), and Bryce Williams (Buffalo).
• 7-2 record
• All four seniors listed above (Cartusciello, Maldonado, Werner, and Williams) were named All MAPL First Team and were joined by teammates Braydon Bonfig ’27, Tahmere Brown ’27, Peterson Claude ’28, Xander (Bam) Pelzer ’29, and Ian Walker ’27. Additionally, the following players were named All MAPL Second Team: Noah Johnson ’27, Luca Saurman ’27, Tenesie Taylor ’28.
CHEER
Head Coach: Cathy Greco Whalen
• This season was once again a great success with a huge team of 25, including nine amazing seniors!!
• Led by our three awesome senior captains—Sofia Kulp, Hayden Malmros, and Emery Miller—pre-season was full of camaraderie, hard work, dedication, and support! The group learned over 42 cheers, participated in bonding exercises, and became a true team!
• The highlight of our season was Senior Day/Homecoming, which recognized the outstanding seniors who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, guidance, support, and, most importantly, Pennington School spirit to others.
• These amazing seniors are: Louise Bourgoin, Amelia Buck, Mandy Cordone, Karys Elmore, Sofia Kulp, Hayden Malmros, Emery Miller, Janelle Owusu, and Julia Sperry-Fernandez! A special shout-out to our own Janelle Owusu, who was named to Pennington’s Homecoming Court!
BOYS' SOCCER
Head Coach: Chad Bridges Assistant Coaches: Sean Davies, Ryan Stokes, Lukas Palker, Tim Summiel, Joey Jingoli
• 13-3-1 record; captured third consecutive NJISAA Prep A and Mid-Atlantic Prep League Championships, going undefeated in both competitions!
• Team concluded the season ranked #5 in the top 15 nationally in Sports Illustrated ’s Prep Soccer rankings
• Seniors Tait Brown, Colin Harkleroad, Kyle Harvey, Seamus Manning, and Dimitri Espinoza provided outstanding leadership throughout the season, while juniors Matthew Addai, Joey Riley, Gus Shapiro, Taejun (Daniel) Youn, and Alex Ben Amou earned several postseason honors along with Harkleroad and Harvey.
• Junior Matthew Addai was named a First-team Sports Illustrated Prep All-American, while seniors Gus Shapiro, Kyle Harvey, and Colin Harkleroad earned honorable mention.
GIRLS' SOCCER
Head Coaches: Bill Hawkey and Patrick Murphy
Assistant Coach: Tim Summiel
• Preseason and the Baltimore, MD, trip early in the season set the perfect tone for a very special team this year.
• An exciting 3-1 win over previously undefeated Westtown School wrapped up a fun Homecoming Weekend that included a "lights-out" team dance at the Pep Rally on Friday.
• Defeated two previously undefeated opponents
• Championships in the MAPL and NJISAA Prep A division, and a 15-2-1 record
• Pennington Girls’ Soccer has won an incredible 24 NJ Prep Championships (19 Prep A titles and 5 Prep B titles), and its third consecutive MAPL championship since joining MAPL three years ago.
• We bid farewell to our incredible seniors Ava Brochon, Sara Chrnelich, Nora Close, Lina Cortes, Katie Dwyer, Lizzie Holstein, Mariah Lynch, Bri Turner, and Alex Van Arsdale.
• Senior Sara Chrnelich was named The Trentonian Player of the Year.
CROSS COUNTRY
Head Coach: Rick Ritter
Assistant Coach: Elizabeth Roehm
• Overall records: Boys’ 6-2, Girls’ 6-2 (4th at States)
• We ran at the Invitationals at KU, Peddie, Shore Coaches, Manhattan, and Mercersburg; Medalists were: Monte Huffman ’26, Andrew Hofacker ’26, Emma Normand ’26, Christopher Freeland ’28, and Hank Van Yperen ’29.
• Huffman took sixth at the MAPL Championship, thereby named to the All-MAPL team
• Pennington successfully hosted the first "Mercer County Prep Non-CVC XC Championship."
• Prep B State Champions—with a thrilling win over Montclair Kimberley Academy!
• Achieved the winningest season in School history and finished second in the MAPL—the highest placement ever for Pennington field hockey
• Senior standout Geneviève Vallières reached her 200-point career achievement, an extraordinary accomplishment in program history.
• Goalie Lillian Chiaravalloti ’27 delivered a phenomenal performance against nationally ranked Hill School, recording 30 saves and anchoring the defense with poise and grit.
• Four players earned All-Prep recognition: Geneviève Vallières, Clara Meccage ’29, Lillian Chiaravalloti ’27, and Brooke Flannery ’28; Shona Karp ’27 received Honorable Mention for her outstanding play.
• United by shared values and purpose, the team embodied determination, respect, and accountability as they pursued—and achieved—their ultimate goal: bring home the championship.
The Trentonian named seniors Geneviève Vallières and Lillian Chiaravalloti as Player of the Year and Goalie of the Year, respectively. Kristin McCarthy was named Coach of the Year.
GIRLS' TENNIS
Head Coach: Adrienne Tosti
• Xinlin (Cheryl) Lyu ’28 and Yiqian (Phoebe) Fei ’29 came in third at the MAPL doubles tournament, securing wins over every team except Lawrenceville.
• The Mercersburg match was easily won with victories on every single court.
• Our senior-run round robin doubles tournament was a season highlight.
• Team won against Hun in their final senior day match and celebrated senior captains Grace and Olivia Craig.
• The team bonded over ice cream at Uncle Ed’s!
• Senior Olivia Craig was named All MAPL First Team.
EDMUND V. CERVONE CENTER FOR LEARNING: YOUNG ALUMNI SUCCESS STORIES
From classrooms to careers, recent Cervone Center for Learning alumni are making their mark in meaningful ways. Their stories highlight how the confidence, skills, and support they gained at Pennington continue to shape their journeys. Here’s a look at some of the exciting paths they’re pursuing.
Jacob Essig ’18
MASTER OF PUBLIC POLICY STUDENT, HARVARD UNIVERSITY
Essig ’18 began his master’s degree in public policy at Harvard University last fall, where he is studying the intersection of economics and policy, exploring how it can be applied to build more equitable communities. Prior to attending Harvard, he held several roles at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, gaining hands-on experience at the heart of public service and policymaking.
Essig is a proud Pennington “lifer” and graduated from Princeton University in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in public and international affairs.
"At Pennington, I was an active member of the Eye to Eye near-peer mentoring program for students with learning differences, where I was given the space, community support, and agency necessary to advocate for myself and others and to create a more accepting world for students who learn differently. I now serve on the board of directors for Eye to Eye’s legacy organization, The Neurodiversity Alliance, where I hope to emulate for our students the world-class support I received from the passionate and compassionate staff at the Cervone Center, like my fantastic CS teacher Vicki Picone."
Tara McCracken ’18
EDUCATION COORDINATOR, REEF RELIEF
As Education Coordinator for Reef Relief in Key West, Florida, McCracken teaches free marine science lessons to students across Monroe County and to thousands more worldwide through monthly virtual programs. Last year, more than 16,300 students in 17 countries and 48 states participated. McCracken credits the Cervone Center, especially mentors Adrienne Papa and Karen Balerna, for building the confidence and skills that shaped her path. Today, she carries that same spirit into her teaching, inspiring the next generation to care for the planet’s coral reefs.
McCracken attended Eckerd College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies with a double minor in film studies and animal studies.
"Mrs. Papa and Mrs. Balerna were always my biggest cheerleaders and strongest supporters, and I’ll forever be grateful for the way they believed in me! They didn’t just teach me content—they showed me what it means to care for students, how to make learning fun, and to believe in people even when they don’t believe in themselves."
Julia Wakin ’19
STRATEGIST, THE INTANGIBLES
Wakin’s journey highlights how the School supports students to embrace their differences and use them as a foundation for reaching greater heights. As a consultant at a boutique firm in New York City, Wakin brings together her analytical skills, creativity, and empathy—qualities shaped during her time at Pennington.
Guided by the Cervone Center and its faculty, Wakin came to understand that being dyslexic is an important part of her identity, but not a limitation on what she can achieve. That understanding inspired her involvement with Eye to Eye, a national mentoring program that supports young individuals who are neurodivergent. The experience sparked a lasting commitment to helping others embrace their unique strengths. Wakin carried that passion into college, tutoring students and continuing with Eye to Eye. She graduated from Syracuse University with degrees in communications and rhetorical studies and business and design studies, achieving summa cum laude honors.
Wakin credits The Pennington School and the Cervone Center for her personal and intellectual growth, which opened up new horizons and possibilities.
"Once a girl who never imagined sharing my story, I am now a woman with even bigger dreams and career aspirations."
Drayton Kolaras ’23
STUDENT, MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
Currently a student at Morehouse College, Kolaras was one of the top 15 students selected into the cinema, television, and emerging media studies program. A Michael L. Lomax Scholar and honor student, Kolaras credits the Cervone Center for Learning with laying the foundation for his success.
Through the Center, he learned to take advantage of extra help and office hours, ask thoughtful questions, manage his time effectively, and stay focused and productive—skills that continue to strengthen his coursework and daily life. He will further develop his craft as a filmmaker at New York University this summer.
"The Cervone Center for Learning has made me who I am today. It helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses and discover how I learn best. I wouldn’t be where I am today without it."
IMPACT! AP STUDIO ART
The Silva Gallery of Art kicked off this year’s exhibitions with IMPACT! This show highlighted the summer work of Pennington’s AP Studio Art students. The exhibition was also curated and hung by the students. Throughout September, students sought feedback on their work from the community, considered that feedback, then edited and further developed their pieces. This created a continually evolving show as students removed, reworked, and returned their work to the walls.
THE SILVA GALLERY OF ART hosted Eye-Hand Coordination: Works by James Fiorentino from October 13 through December 10, 2025. A reception for the artist was held on Friday, November 14.
Fiorentino is an American artist who specializes in watercolor and the artistic convergence of sports and nature. At fifteen, Fiorentino became the youngest artist ever to be featured in the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum for his likeness of Reggie Jackson. In 1998, Fiorentino became the youngest artist to be inducted into the prestigious New York Society of Illustrators, along with such artists as Norman Rockwell and Andrew Wyeth.
A graduate of Drew University, Fiorentino has painted many legendary ball players and other athletes of the past and present, as well as some of the most recognized faces in the world, from presidents to Nobel Peace Prize winners, CEOs, and political icons. His works have been showcased in museums, galleries, and private collections across the globe, and his career has been featured on national television and in the pages of magazines, books, newspapers, and trading cards. He is the recipient of numerous awards and his work has been used by national brands, including trading cards for Topps, Upper Deck, and Kellogg's. Fiorentino is a member of the New Jersey Watercolor Society, Garden State Watercolor Society, American Watercolor Society, National Watercolor Society, Society of Animal Artists, and Artists for Conservation. Fiorentino hosted two watercolor workshops as part of his Pennington residency–one with visual art students and another with members of the baseball team.
2025 MUSICIANS-IN-RESIDENCE
AKROPOLIS REED QUINTET
The Akropolis Reed Quintet members were Pennington’s 2025 Musicians-in-Residence. Comprised of Tim Gocklin, oboe; Ryan Reynolds, bassoon; Matt Landry, saxophone; Kari Landry, clarinet; and Andrew Koeppe, bass clarinet, they presented a free concert that was open to the public on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in the Meckler Library Reading Room. This visit marked the second residency for the group, during which they collaborated with Pennington’s student musicians through a series of master classes, workshops, and demonstrations. Both the concert and residency were made possible by a parent of an alumna.
Akropolis has graced the classical Billboard charts with each of their last three albums, reaching #2 in April of 2024. The group has also won seven national chamber music prizes, including the 2014 Fischoff Gold Medal. The group delivers 120 concerts and educational events worldwide each year. Akropolis became the first-ever GRAMMY®winning reed quintet when the group took home the Best Instrumental Composition award for the track “Strands” at the 67th Grammy Awards in February 2025.
MUSIC AT PENNINGTON
On November 17, Upper and Middle School students performed a variety of pieces at the Fall Instrumental Concert. The Orchestra, String Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Rock Ensemble, and Jazz Band played music from the William Tell Overture to "Under the Sea" and "Don't Stop Believin." On December 10, music students participated in the festive "Sounds of the Season" gathering, the annual winter vocal concert. Pennington Singers, The Treble Tones, and SoundProof sang familiar holiday songs as well as original compositions and a medley of seasonal classics.
METAMORPHOSES
DIRECTOR'S NOTE by Suzanne Houston
Theatre at Pennington presented Metamorphoses by Mary Zimmerman as the 2025 fall play, performed in the Diane T. McLarty Black Box Theater from November 6 to 9. The play was the 2002 winner of the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Play (Mary Zimmerman), and was nominated that year for three Tonys, including Best Play.
Suzanne Houston, Pennington’s theatre director, writes, “The vignettes the students performed on stage were drawn from Ovid’s epic poem, "Metamorphoses," written in 8 A.D., adaptations of the poem, and poetry by Rainer Maria Rilke. Playwright Mary Zimmerman wove these myths together to reveal transformations: some miraculous, some tragic, all deeply human, as gods such as Zeus, Aphrodite, and Poseidon intersect with mortals such
as Midas, Ceyx, and Myrrha. Zimmerman’s choice of myths also exposes how love, loss, imagination, nature, and memory contribute to transformation.
I chose this play after years of seeing its impact on students in Mr. Secrest’s Latin IV class and witnessing a Drama II project by senior Brett Sirolly that reignited interest in its stories. With a strong group of senior leaders ready to embrace the challenge, it felt like the perfect time to undertake this epic work. In fact, the tech crew was inspired by senior Nishka Vyas’s scenic vision from Latin IV!
This was one of the largest sets seen at Pennington in many years, complete with an 8-foot-by-8-foot pool, inventive lighting, and imaginative costumes for gods, mortals, and everything in between. The actors explored movement
through the four elements, tackled rich language, and discovered the power of transformation. Echoing Pennington’s 2007 production of the same play, water again played a central role both as a design challenge and as a living, transformative force within the play.
Theatre itself is transformative for actors, creators, and the audience alike. Performances are repeated, but each is utterly unique and ephemeral. Audience members never leave unchanged. In ancient Greece, theatre originated as a ritual; this was reflected by the cast beginning in chaos before creation, a ritual that marks the beginning of the world and our story. The Theatre at Pennington Class of 2026 was our guiding star; their artistry, leadership, and legacy shone through every moment of this production, transforming us all in the process.”
PEER LEADERSHIP PROGRAM FORGES IMPORTANT BONDS
PENNINGTON’S PEER LEADERSHIP PROGRAM is designed for seniors to develop leadership skills and put them into practice while striving to make positive changes individually, in their School, in their community, and beyond. With a focus on the Grade 9 experience, Peer Leaders work diligently to build caring, safe, and engaging learning communities where each individual is respected and celebrated, and every new Upper School student is recognized and known.
Our Peer Leadership program has been matching small groups of Grade 9 students with two seniors for more than forty years and is currently under the leadership of Julianne De Lorenzo ’07, Chandler Fraser-Pauls ’11, and Director of Counseling Susie Paige. This is the first time in the program's
history that it is being led by two alumni, both former Peer Leaders themselves, which makes De Lorenzo and Fraser-Pauls uniquely qualified for this endeavor. Both are thrilled to participate. Fraser-Pauls says, “I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to give back to a program that helped to shape me during my transformative years. We have a great team in place, and we want to uphold the incredible standard that Erin O’Connell established during her time with Peer Leaders. In my opinion, our most important job in education is to help young people become the best version of themselves, and I enjoy continuing that work on a daily basis through Peer Leaders.”
De Lorenzo added, “It has been unbelievable for me to have this full circle moment coming back to the Peer Leadership program. Being part of the Peer Leader
program as a senior at Pennington was incredibly meaningful to me, which is evident in the fact that I’m now a co-director. When I think of Peer Leadership, the word that stands out most is 'connectedness.' Through this program, I’ve learned the value of building authentic, genuine relationships with others. It’s a lesson I carry with me through every part of my life, and it has been truly transformative. The opportunity to return as a leader, helping to shape the next generation of Peer Leaders, has been deeply fulfilling.”
Employing activity-based programming first developed at the Princeton Center for Leadership Training, Pennington’s program uses an evidence-based model of peer mentoring to guide and support ninth-graders during their entire first year of high school. A group of seniors
is selected each year through a competitive application process. Training for the new Peer Leaders includes a retreat in August, before the start of classes. Peer Leaders are also enrolled in a daily class where they plan and practice for their weekly meetings with the ninth-graders, which take place every Friday morning before academic classes begin.
Each Peer Leader works with a partner and leads a small group of ninth-graders to support them in their new environment. These seniors are trained to lead discussions, facilitate activities, plan events, coordinate service projects, and develop programming. As mentors and role models, seniors learn to display sensitivity, empathy, and caring for their younger peers. Reflection and self-assessment are practiced regularly in the program. Seniors build their confidence, study and learn about group dynamics, and develop their
leadership skills throughout the year. Simultaneously, ninth-graders develop new friends, enhance coping skills, and experience a support system of caring upperclassmen.
Peer Leaders lead discussions with the ninth-graders about topics that may include social and academic pressures; relationships with peers, parents, and faculty; issues involving social media use, drugs, sex, and alcohol; and, most importantly, an understanding of the decision-making process. Peer Leaders also host Grade 9 Fun Nights, after-school game nights, and a Parents Night, when
"WHEN I THINK OF PEER LEADERSHIP, THE WORD THAT STANDS OUT MOST IS 'CONNECTEDNESS'.”
ninth-graders and their parents meet with the Peer Leaders to learn more about the program and participate in activities around a
particular topic. Topics in the past have included social media, drugs and alcohol, and best practices for parent-teen communication. They may also cover topics in the news or in the life of the School.
In addition to regular programming, Peer Leaders are responsible for special projects throughout the year, which begin with the Camp9 overnight orientation, continue with the HomeFront holiday party (see page 67 for details about this year’s event), and Community Days.
Pennington’s Peer Leadership program has a long and proud history, and our School was one of the first in the country to implement the curriculum created by The Princeton Center for Leadership Training. Our leaders stay current with programming by attending professional development workshops and seminars. By design, the program allows for flexibility as needs present themselves. The Peer Leadership program benefits both the ninth-graders and senior leaders, and for many, this program is an integral part of the Pennington experience.
PARENTS
for PENNINGTON
PARENTS FOR PENNINGTON (PfP) KICKED OFF THE FALL SEMESTER WITH A FULL CALENDAR OF EVENTS DESIGNED TO ENGAGE FAMILIES AND STRENGTHEN THEIR CONNECTION TO OUR VIBRANT SCHOOL COMMUNITY. During Back-to-School Week, the PfP leadership team was on campus welcoming new and returning families, distributing snack bags, and hosting its annual Middle School polo sale. Later in September, PfP hosted grade-specific welcome parties to celebrate the start of the academic year, in partnership with six Pennington families who graciously opened their homes to guests. Parents also had the opportunity to meet PfP's new president and board, learn about upcoming activities, and explore volunteer opportunities at the fall General Meeting.
In October, PfP launched its popular Parent Coffee series, featuring informative monthly talks by School leaders, including Dr. Lida Castro, Susie Paige, Dr. Julianne De Lorenzo, and Kenneth Coakley. Morning and evening Book Clubs also returned, offering parents relaxed opportunities to reconnect with friends and meet new ones. Homecoming and Reunion Weekend brought out PfP volunteers in full force, handing out Red Hawks spirit gear and welcoming Pennington families to the annual potluck tailgate. Just a week later, PfP hosted a not-sospooky "Boo Bash" Halloween dance for Middle School students on campus.
PfP wrapped up its fall calendar with a Parents Night Out at Mercer Bucks Pickleball Club, where firsttime players as well as seasoned pros all enjoyed an evening of fun and friendly competition. The board plans to keep the momentum going with a full slate of winter and spring programming.
Amy Sullivan is the current President of Parents for Pennington. She earned her bachelor’s degree in communications and a master’s degree in speech and interpersonal communications from New York University. Sullivan is an independent fundraising consultant. She has more than two decades of experience in non-profit fundraising, including in-house positions at The Society of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and The New York Landmarks Conservancy. She has been a member of the Pennington Public Library's board since 2022 and serves as the liaison to the Friends of Pennington Public Library. Amy and her husband, James Meader, are the parents of eighth-grader Grady Meader ’30.
STAY CONNECTED! To stay in the loop about upcoming programs, social events, club gatherings, and volunteer opportunities, parents are encouraged to read PfP's weekly news section in Pennington Postings or follow @parentsforpennington on Instagram and Facebook.
SMARTER LEARNING: HOW AI IS SHAPING THE PENNINGTON EXPERIENCE
GENERATIVE AI IS HERE TO STAY, AND IT IS ESSENTIAL TO TEACH STUDENTS HOW TO LEVERAGE ITS EFFECTIVENESS WHILE BEING AWARE OF ITS LIMITATIONS. At Pennington, teachers and administrators have been collaborating for some time to explore various AI tools and their potential benefits for students in both the Middle and Upper Schools. In an era when generative AI is reshaping how information is created, shared, and evaluated, equipping students with AI literacy skills has become essential to ensure success in their academic and professional futures. Teachers play a crucial role in helping students
critically assess AI-generated content, use AI ethically, and leverage its capabilities for deeper learning and enhanced creativity. By integrating AI literacy into their teaching, they empower students to navigate an evolving digital landscape with discernment, responsibility, and adaptability—skills that will define their success in higher education, the workforce, and life.
Generative AI refers to platforms and tools that can create text, images, code, audio, or video in response to human prompts, and, in some cases, interact with the prompter in engaging ways that mimic conversation. These include, but are not limited to, platforms such as ChatGPT,
DALL-E, Grammarly GO, AI-based video editors, and tutoring bots. A helpful analogy is to think of AI as a personal assistant to help with organizational tasks. For a teacher, this could mean tailoring assignments to the learning styles of the students, using data to gauge the effectiveness of a particular lesson or track a student’s progress, and harnessing a vast number of educational resources that already exist. For students, AI can be used in many ways, including as a tutor that designs practice assignments based on an individual’s skill level, or as an editor to provide early feedback on written assignments.
In the summer of 2025, The Pennington School created an
official policy to govern the use of AI in the School, and came up with a guide to communicate to Upper School students the amount of AI they are permitted to use for any work they are assigned, ranging from “no AI” to “AI as collaborator.” Within that framework, the other levels for AI use are for assistance with editing, idea generation, and analysis. In all cases, the use of AI to complete work must be cited. The main goal is for all Pennington students to achieve AI literacy. The guidelines for students, as stated in the latest version of the Student/ Parent Handbook, are:
GUIDELINES FOR ACCEPTABLE USE:
BE TRANSPARENT
At Pennington, AI literacy isn’t about replacing human thinking — it’s about sharpening it. “
–KENNETH COAKLEY, DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
At a minimum, all instances of the use of AI, when permitted, must be acknowledged, including (but not limited to) when used for proofreading, brainstorming, researching, and idea-generating. When AI significantly shapes a student’s work, (for example, by generating a paragraph, solving a problem, or suggesting an image), that contribution must be cited, and students should be prepared to share the prompt history. Teachers will provide guidance on how and when such attribution is expected.
HONOR THE LEARNING PROCESS
Assignments are designed to help students build essential skills in reading, writing, problem-solving, and collaboration. Overreliance on AI can hinder growth and is inconsistent with the goals of a meaningful education. Students should expect assignments that prohibit the use of AI.
FOLLOW COURSE-SPECIFIC EXPECTATIONS
Each teacher will communicate whether and how AI tools may be used for a given assignment. If students are unsure, they are expected to seek clarification from their teacher. Unauthorized AI use or misrepresenting AIgenerated work as one’s own constitutes academic dishonesty and will be addressed in accordance with the School’s Honor Code.
By fostering these generative AI literacy skills, students can become informed, ethical, and innovative users of AI, navigating an increasingly AI-integrated world with confidence and integrity.
AI is especially useful for students and faculty in the Cervone Center for Learning. It can help students with executive functioning difficulties by breaking down long-term assignments into smaller tasks and providing reminders, or by assisting with language processing for students with dyslexia. Director of the Cervone Center for Learning Jo Prockop says, “Essentially, generative AI can change everything for students who learn differently. For example, discipline-specific teachers can easily differentiate instruction for each individual student; CS and AST teachers can create materials and supports (e.g., study bots) that help neurodiverse
students to access and understand content, master skills, and learn and apply compensatory strategies; and students can ultimately individualize their own learning experiences in ways that best suit them. We aren't fully there yet, but I firmly believe we will be there soon.”
All Pennington School faculty members learned how to use Flint AI this academic year. Flint is a chatbot that is designed to act as an individual tutor for students. Students can use the resource independently or in conjunction with pre-designed activities provided by their teachers. When teachers design activities, they control the content and level of assistance students receive from the chatbot. More significantly, teachers then receive feedback about the
progress of each individual student, as well as a summary of how the class is progressing.
Students can interact with AI tutors for personalized academic support, receiving instant feedback on their work, individualized explanations, and even simulated conversations in world languages. The platform adapts content difficulty and language level to each student's needs, fostering AI literacy and enhancing their learning experience. Flint describes the software’s benefits to students on its website: “The AI will adjust to each student’s level and help when they get stuck, without giving away the answer.”
Concerns about AI are wellfounded, however. Students must be taught how to use AI
FROM THE PENNTONIAN:
wisely, how to guard against bias or false information, and how to ensure that the information they feed into a particular AI remains safe and private. AI can assist and collaborate with students, but all of this should be done in ways that keep the student in the driver’s seat in terms of critical thinking, discernment, and problem-solving. At The Pennington School, we firmly believe that the heart of meaningful education is based on human connections and independent thought, both within and outside of the classroom.
AI will not replace the important engagement that happens between teachers and students or between students working collaboratively.
IS AI IN THE CLASSROOM REVOLUTIONIZING EDUCATION OR RUINING IT?
BY GEORGE WARD JR. 26
CAN AI HELP STUDENTS LEARN BETTER, OR IS IT STRIPPING THEM OF LEARNING SKILLS THAT SCHOOLS ARE MEANT TO BUILD?
As AI tools like ChatGPT are being integrated more into classrooms around the nation, teachers at Pennington are considering how this technology should be used and incorporated. Science teacher Ms. Aneka Bell said, “It’s a game changer for good or for bad.” She explained, “In the right hands, it’s a wonderful tool. But students need to understand that AI is not thinking for them, it’s only gathering information.”
Ms. Bell believes AI can help refine students’ work if used responsibly. But her biggest concern is the overreliance students have on it and the false sense of security they have with the information it spits out to them. She fears that the use of AI in the real world is where the real danger is presented.
Ms. Stephanie Cohen, interim head of the English department, shared that while she finds that there are some cool tools available through AI, like turning a chapter of a book into a podcast for a student, she also wonders if that muscle of critical thinking, whether it’s reading, writing, or brainstorming, starts to go away with
AI use. She used the example of how Google Maps has limited the work we used to have to do to read a map.
When asked about how ChatGPT is being used in her classroom, Ms. Cohen mentioned, “I’m sure it’s being used by kids who feel insecure about work that they’re doing… they’re asking Chat to tell them the answers. It’s not being used in my classroom in front of me because we don’t use laptops, except for when we’re writing something on exam.net or when we’re writing. But kids are using it because they feel like they need to know something about a short story we read….I wish they would trust themselves; it might give them a quote, but it doesn’t mean they’ve learned anything. That’s pretty much what [students] have said to me, that it gets a job done, but it’s not learning.”
Mr. Len Leib, who teaches Computer Science and Statistics, keyed in on how AI’s rapid growth is already impacting the job market: “My biggest concern is AI just giving young people fewer options in the world. The
adoption of this technology is one of the fastest, most powerful things I’ve ever seen. It’s replacing humans, especially college-educated ones; that’s the scary part.”
Mr. Peter Walsh, head of the History Department, sees the potential of AI to help with tasks like text-leveling complicated historical passages or acting as a tutor to help master basic content so a student can then go do deep opinion-based thinking on their own. However, he also sees that the overuse of it is taking away the skill of critical thinking from students. “AI presents what looks like higher-order thinking,” Mr. Walsh said, “So the problem is, when it offers us thinking in areas where we don’t have prior understanding, or we have only limited understanding, we don’t know how to determine if it’s accurate and don’t have the chance to form our own opinions. So my concern is, will the teachers and the learners of the future be less equipped to see the limitations of AI because they’re immersed in it and its ability to think independently, instantly?”
PENNINGTON TRADITIONS
Shine BRIGHT!
In just its second year, Pennington's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony filled the plaza with festive spirit as over one hundred community members braved freezing temperatures to watch Head of School William Hawkey officially welcome in the holiday season!
Drawing inspiration from seasonal traditions of light, Pennington's Winter Holiday Candlelight Celebration featured carols, candle lighting, and stories shared by students who recounted their own international holiday traditions from countries such as Germany, Portugal, Italy, Mexico, and China.
The Middle School also enjoyed a celebratory sendoff in the days leading up to winter break. The Secret Snowflake Gift Exchange—a longstanding tradition for Grades 6 through 8—was accompanied by special snacks chosen by the student leaders for each grade. Middle Schoolers provided their own entertainment with holiday performances and seasonal vignettes that reflect the work they have been doing in their Arts elective classes.
ANNUAL
Holiday PARTY
ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13, The Pennington School welcomed over one hundred local families to its annual holiday party for clients of HomeFront, a Mercer County not-for-profit organization dedicated to ending homelessness and poverty in central New Jersey. Over 150 Pennington School students, parents, staff, and faculty members volunteered their time to serve as hosts, food servers, playmates, readers, crafters, gift wrappers, and more for their guests.
Pennington’s special relationship with HomeFront began thirty-one years ago. In December 1994, Pennington received an urgent call from HomeFront founder Connie Mercer. HomeFront’s corporate holiday sponsor that year unexpectedly backed out at the last minute, leaving the organization scrambling for a venue to host their annual holiday party. Upon hearing the news, Pennington’s administration stepped forward without hesitation, hosting the celebration that year and every year since.
The School’s senior Peer Leaders work hard in advance of the
annual party to organize a toy drive in the weeks leading up to the festivities. Juniors Proctors host a book fair to ensure that every child in attendance can choose a book to take home. In addition to the books and hundreds of warm hats and gloves, the School community collected over 350 gifts with which to fill Santa's Toy Shop. During the party, while their children were entertained with games, crafts, and dancing led by Pennington’s student “elves,” parents could go “shopping” and have gifts wrapped to take with them. Families also enjoyed a delicious turkey dinner with all the trimmings, courtesy of Flik, the School’s dining service, and a visit from Santa helped round out the afternoon fun. According to Associate Head of School Chad Bridges, the true magic of this day comes from creating “a space for families to momentarily escape their daily struggles, to experience joy, and to build relationships. The event gives families the power of choice, fosters dignity, and strengthens the bonds of community.” It is a fitting tradition for The Pennington School, which is committed to compassion, teamwork, and service, and aptly reflects the spirit of the holiday season.
ALUMNI CELEBRATIONS AND CLASS NOTES
1950S
NORMAN STANLEY
LITOWITZ ’52 is now fully retired. He divides his time between Chicago, IL, and Palm Beach, FL. He and his wife, Bonnie, recently celebrated 64 years of marriage. (see photo 1)
1960S
ABRAHAM ABADI ’62 is a golf lover still waiting to get a hole-in-one, but in the meantime, he is focusing on a more realistic goal: writing a reflection on his four decades of work in public school teaching and administration, as well as his time as a university professor. (see photo 2)
LLEWELLYN L. BERRY ’63 continues his work as a photographic artist and teaches a Zoom photographic arts class on Saturday mornings. He is also an active art curator. His group, the Kindalew Collective, has a new exhibit at the U.S. District Courthouse in Greenbelt, MD, which opened on November 5, 2025. (see photo 3)
FRANCIS HALLIGAN, JR.
’64, a lifelong resident of Ocean County, NJ, currently practices law and serves as a New Jersey Superior Court arbitrator, mediator, and presiding condemnation hearing commissioner. He previously held the position of regional presiding judge for two counties. (see photo 4)
ELEVEN MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 1965
returned to campus to celebrate their sixtieth reunion and proudly watched the induction of George Goodell ’65 into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Everyone is already looking forward to the sixty-fifth reunion. (see photo 5)
1970S
KIM MCDONALD ’73 recently enjoyed a visit from his friend and classmate JIM MENTIS ’73. He stays in touch with BOB CRYSTAL ’75 as well as DAN SEYLER ’73, who often calls from Texas to share stories from his life as a homesteader. Kim is living in Bath, PA, and always enjoys hearing from classmates.
BOB MARUT ’75 retired from the New Jersey Department of Education in 2020. In 2023, he and his wife relocated from New Jersey to Florida to be closer to their oldest son. Bob now spends his days playing golf and enjoying the salt life.
MAIDA BROOKS ’76 and her spouse are enjoying retirement in southwest France, where they moved in 2022. (see photo 6)
NATALIE PEACE BAXTER STRANGE ’78 and her husband moved back to the United Kingdom after nine years in Belgium. They are enjoying their new home in northeast England, just outside the beautiful city of Durham. The move has placed them closer to family, and allowed her husband Alan to pursue his long-held dream of earning a PhD in theology at Durham University. Natalie continues her work in spiritual accompaniment, meeting with people online and training other spiritual directors.
KAREN MARTINDELL BUXTON ’79 was inducted into the Guilford County Sports Hall of Fame. Coach Buxton was the founding coach of the Greensboro
Day School field hockey program, serving as head coach from 1996 to 2012 and earning North Carolina Independent Schools Athletic Association Coach of the Year honors. She is currently the head women’s triathlon coach at Greensboro College and is a fourtime Team USA Triathlon and sixtime USA Duathlon member.
FRED FALCHI ’79 returned home to Pennington as the School’s head coach of the Varsity Boys’ Basketball team.
1980S
TOM CHIODI ’81 became a grandfather in August and is very excited about the new addition to the family. His daughter, Maya, and grandson, Jax, are doing wonderfully. In July, Tom joined GERARD LIEGGI ’81, MICHAEL EHNOT ’81, ANDREA COLENDER
KAWECKI ’82, and RON RICK ’81 for a weekend full of fun and laughter. He is looking forward to the Class of 1981’s 45th reunion in the fall.
BILL THOMPSON ’84 began a new career at Marsh McLennan Agency in November, assuming the role of national retirement and wealth sales officer. (see photo 7)
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ALUMNI CLASS NOTES, CONT.
JUAN ARRIVILLAGA ’84 retired from his 33-year career as a special agent with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. He now works for the U.S. Department of State as a law enforcement program manager at the U.S. Embassy in Panama.
BRIAN ALDERSON ’87 resides in Blacksburg, VA, with his wife and works as a design engineer. Both of his sons are married with one child each, and a third grandchild is on the way. While in Massachusetts for a business trade show, Brian enjoyed catching up with GEOFF MERSFELDER ’87 over dinner.
TONY GLAZER ’87, a writer, director, and producer, is currently producing the TV series Best Medicine, starring Josh Charles, for the Fox network. (see photo 8)
PROFESSOR MICHAEL
KILFOYLE ’87 hosted Director of Alumni Relations
JANE BOTT CHILDREY ’89 at Plymouth State for his classes on strategy and emotional intelligence. (see photo 9)
1990S
JOSEPH MUELLER ’90
embarked on an exciting trip to Berlin, Germany, with his partner. While he regretted missing his 25th reunion
celebration, he enjoyed seeing all the photos of his classmates and was with the class in spirit.
KENNETH FREY ’91 has been busy since COVID, discovering a new passion for writing. What started as filling notebooks with memories led to a surprising book contract, and the publisher is already asking for more. He continues to enjoy the creative process and looks forward to developing additional projects.
NOPAWAN TARMALLPARK BUTLER ’92 and ERI HOKURA ’94 caught up with JANE BOTT CHILDREY ’89 in Sandy Springs, Georgia. (see photo 10)
2000S
ANDREA PICARIELLO ’05
had a wonderful time catching up with JAE WON DO ’05 in beautiful Seoul during a May getaway to Korea. They shared life updates and reminisced about their Pennington days; it was a true joy to reconnect. (see photo 11)
BRENDAN QUINN ’07
recently stopped by the Shore Coaches Invitational cross country meet to watch Pennington compete. He enjoyed catching up with his former coach, Rick Ritter. (see photo 12)
MATTHEW BIEDRON ’08
married his best friend, Ashley, in New Hope, PA, in July 2025. (see photo 13)
NOEL CARR ’09 has been living in Edinburgh, Scotland, for the past seven years. In September, he married his partner, Jenny Bowman, in St. Andrews, Scotland. They celebrated the day with their son, Charlie, surrounded by friends and family. (see photo 14)
2010S
ERICA DEKRANES ’10
married her best friend and former neighbor, William Le, over the summer in a beautiful VietnameseAmerican ceremony. MAGGIE FELDMAN-PILTCH ’10 was in attendance. After the wedding, Erica and William traveled to Japan, where they successfully summited Mt. Fuji. (see photo 15)
DANE KUNKEL ’13 married Kristen Beck in August 2025, and they celebrated their honeymoon with a trip to Greece. (see photo 16)
ANNIE (HORSLEY)
BOSSIDY ’14 and her husband, Teddy, are the proud parents of identical twin boys, James and Graham, born on August 26. Their arrival has made Tom and Suzanne Horsley proud grandparents!
ALUMNI CLASS NOTES, CONT.
LAUREN (LU) BROWN ’15
took the stage in A Reason to Dance on Peaks Island, ME, directed by Pennington faculty Lisa Houston. Lu portrayed prodigy playwright Sada Cowan, who once summered on the island. It was so special for the director and the actor to reconnect after ten years. (see photo 17)
NICK BUNN ’15 returned to campus to kick off the year’s Pennington Entrepreneurship Speaker Series. As cofounder of 98Strong and founder of Frontman, he shared lessons from his startup journey and encouraged students to embrace failure, think creatively, and take bold steps toward their ideas. (see photo 18)
TOM REILLY ’17 earned his Wings of Gold as a United States Marine Corps aviator. (see photo 19)
ANNABELLE LI ’18, a member of the inaugural Horizon business group, celebrated her and her husband’s company going public on Nasdaq. Annabelle recalls watching the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange with the Horizon business group in 2018; standing on Nasdaq’s stage marked a thrilling moment. (see photo 20)
DANIEL PONTORIERO ’18 graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder with a degree in environmental design and a minor in art, then moved to Milan to pursue a master’s at Domus Academy. An internship with contemporary artist Matteo Mauro quickly grew into a
long-term collaboration, and Daniel has now spent two years as part of Mauro’s executive team. (see photo 21)
2020S
JON-HENRI MARLOW ’20 opened his new business, Soda House Charleston, this fall, and was featured on a Palmetto Life news segment promoting his company. (see photo 22)
LEXI CHILDREY ’21
was warmly hosted by RIE FURUUCHI ’93 and her niece during a summer trip to Japan. The visit offered a meaningful glimpse into Japanese culture and created lasting memories (and friendships) that span generations and continents. (see photo 23)
TRINITY PRYOR ’21 graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Dartmouth College in June 2025 with dual degrees in linguistics and classical languages and literature, along with a minor in education. She will be pursuing an MSc in education, public policy, and equity at the University of Glasgow this fall. Trinity has been awarded a St. Andrew’s Society of New York Scholarship to fund her studies. She is extremely excited to continue her education and grateful for the strong foundation Pennington provided.
EVAN A. ROSA ’21 was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army following his graduation from the University of
Scranton. A distinguished military graduate, he ranked in the top 10% of Army ROTC cadets nationwide and earned his BS in operations management. (see photo 24)
ZOE EATON ’23 ran into former faculty members Robbi Uzupis and Liz Clancy-Healy at their favorite vacation spot, Echo Lake, ME. (see photo 25)
JOSH FINKLE ’23 helped the Kenyon College Owls reach the quarterfinals of the NCAA Division III Men’s Tennis Championship Tournament for the first time since 1999. The team finished with an overall dual match record of 18–5 and a year-end national ranking of No. 13. Josh posted a 3–1 dual match record in singles and a 17–9 record in doubles. He is majoring in economics at Kenyon. (see photo 26)
WILLIAM HIRSH ’23, EVAN LEVY ’23, and CHRISTOPHER SIROLLY ’23 spent time together in Portugal and traveled to six different countries together throughout the fall.
Christopher is studying in Madrid, Evan is in Milan, and Will is in Prague. (see photo 27)
ADAM FISHER ’24 coauthored The Genius Zone: A Career Guide to Tech Sales, a book inspired by conversations with top performers in the industry. Drawing on interviews with leading professionals, the guide offers practical insights on how to succeed and stand out in the tech sales field.
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Celebrating the Pennington Community! REGIONAL AND AFFINITY ALUMNI EVENTS
Over the past several months, we’ve had the joy of reconnecting with alumni both across the country and right here on campus. Our graduates continue to strengthen their ties to Pennington across generations and within shared communities. HERE’S A LOOK AT THE MEMORABLE GATHERINGS THAT RECENTLY BROUGHT OUR ALUMNI FAMILY TOGETHER.
AUGUST 29 | Pennington vs. Hun Football Game: Honoring Coach Bill Long
Alumni gathered with former Coach Bill Long for a special football reunion filled with Pennington pride and camaraderie before heading to the field to cheer on the Red Hawks against Hun.
SEPTEMBER 30 and OCTOBER 1 | California Regional Events
Pennington headed out west, where alumni, families, and friends came together for vibrant gatherings in both Palo Alto and San Francisco. The events offered a wonderful chance to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the enduring Pennington spirit on the West Coast.
NOVEMBER 29 | Swimming Alumni Meet
Pennington alumni, students, and parents gathered for a special swim meet to celebrate decades of Pennington swimmers.
DECEMBER 4 | New York City Holiday Reception
Alumni and friends met in New York City to celebrate the season at a festive holiday reception. The evening was filled with plenty of Pennington cheer, making it a wonderful way to close out the year and connect with our vibrant New York–area community.
With heartfelt remembrance, we recognize members of the Pennington community whose passing we have learned of since the last issue of our magazine.
