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Term THE ALUMNI MAGAZINE OF THE P OTOMAC S CHO OL

F I N A N C I E R-T U R N E D R E S TA U R AT E U R M I C H A E L FA R A H ’ 9 9 B R I N G S A TA S T E O F B E I R U T T O B R O O K LY N

SAVE THE DATE October 2026

Celebrating Classes Ending in 1 and 6

1946

Honoring all classes that have celebrated their 50th Reunion and beyond!

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1951 1966 1956 1961

Love Potomac? Love a good party? Be the reason your classmates come back! Become a Class Reunion Chair! Help plan, connect, and celebrate with your class. Email: lmiller@potomacschool.org

Let’s make Reunion unforgettable!

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LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL J O H N

K O W A L I K

THE ALUMNI MAGAZINE OF THE POTOMAC SCHOOL FA LL 2 0 2 5 HEA D OF S C HO OL John Kowalik DI R EC TOR OF A DVA NC EMENT Heather Pearce DI R EC TOR OF ALU M NI R ELATI ONS Laura Miller DI R EC TOR OF COMM U NI C ATI ON S Megan Corey

A S S I STA NT DI R EC TOR O F C R EATI V E S ERV ICE S Martha Madrid E DI TOR I A L STR ATEGY Dan Morell www.dogearcreative.com DES I G N PA RTNER Lilly Pereira www.aldeia.design WR I TER S Elizabeth Ahn ’26 Laura J. Cole Marisa Demers Rita Deurdulian Alexander Gelfand Sasha Isenberg Sarah-Nell Walsh ’97 PHOTOGRAPHERS AND ILLUSTRATORS Carmen Yasmine Abd Ali Becky Cullinan Rita Deurdulian Michael Edwards Fried Cactus Studio Chris Gash Robby Klein Peter Oumanski Valerie Plesch ’98 Kathryn Rathke Loretta Sevier The Term is published twice a year. We welcome class notes, comments, and story ideas at term@potomacschool.org. Please submit changes of address or missing or duplicate copies to alumni@potomacschool.org.

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B E YO N D AC A D E M I C S

Building Skills for Life It is a privilege to welcome you to the fall edition of The Term. Within these pages, you will discover more about our graduates, their accomplishments, and the vibrancy of campus life. These stories reflect something central to our mission: that a Potomac education is not simply about what students learn, but also, importantly, about the people they become. Education must always be more than a rigorous academic program. Intellectual growth matters enormously, but so too does the shaping of character and the cultivation of life skills. As Aristotle observed, “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” At Potomac, we are committed to developing skills that are the foundation for life. Our Life Skills program emphasizes four core competencies—public speaking, financial literacy, information literacy, and cultural competence—woven into every division. Students learn to speak clearly, plan responsibly, discern fact from opinion, and embrace diverse perspectives. These are not extras but essentials, equipping young people to thrive in a complex world. This year, we are giving renewed focus to a meaningful practice: civil discourse. In a time of deep division, the ability to listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions, and respond with respect is more important than ever. This discipline is grounded in our core values—courage, humility, integrity, respect, and perseverance—and we are integrating it more intentionally into classrooms, clubs, and assemblies. Last spring, we welcomed author David Brooks, who spoke about the importance of education, discourse, and character. This fall, we are partnering with the Close Up Foundation, a civic education nonprofit, to strengthen students’ capacity for respectful dialogue and civility. Efforts like these shape our community’s culture and prepare students to lead lives of purpose. With that in mind, I hope this magazine gives you an insider’s perspective on life at Potomac, along with inspiring stories of alumni who carry these ideals forward.

A Potomac education is not simply about what students learn, but also, importantly, about the people they become.”

/ThePotomacSchool

@potomacschool

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Contents F E A T U R E S

Moving Pictures Iconic documentary film producer Davis Guggenheim ’79 on what it takes to craft films that shape our culture

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Leading Roll Venture capitalists Damien Petty ’93 and Stefanie Thomas Martin ’03 reveal the traits in a founder that can make or break a venture

Family Style Michael Farah ’99 left Wall Street to build a Brooklyn restaurant around the flavors of his mother’s table

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FALL 2025

WA LK OF LIFE

Girls lacrosse is cradling the crown 06 Traditions Potomac Assemblies 07 Agenda The daily life of Liezel Phillips ’30 08 Syllabus Joy Webster—Acts of service and connection 10 Pulse How do you unplug from screens? 11 Game Day Santiago Cangahuala ’27 shares his pre-tournament routine 12 In Motion Experience the latest campus happenings

16 Currents Murals of connection with Ash Samuels ’17

BE YO N D

Chasing the story with Rachel Chason ’13 36 Echoes A look back through the Potomac lens 37 Class Notes Catch up on the latest news 72 Crossroads Navigating lifequakes with Sarah-Nell Walsh ’97

THE ALUMNI MAGAZINE OF THE POTOMAC SCHOOL

D E P A R T M E N T S

The

Term The Term cultivates community and connection through impactful storytelling and informative news and is published twice a year for alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff, and friends of The Potomac School.

On the cover: Nabila’s in Brooklyn, NY I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y P E T E R O U M A N S K I

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Cradle the Crown

In May, girls lacrosse won the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association (VISAA) Division I championship for the first time in school history! Facing St. Anne’s Belfield in Charlottesville, the Panthers battled back from a late four-goal deficit to win the title in double overtime.

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TRADITIONS POTOMAC ASSEMBLIES

Building Community, Confidence, and Tradition B Y

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Assemblies have been at the heart of Potomac since the school’s inception. Initially conceived as a Friday general gathering, assemblies have always been a time to share, perform, listen, learn, and celebrate. When the school moved to its current McLean campus in 1951, assemblies became an important bridge that strengthened community and continuity. To this day, they build school spirit and identity while offering students an incomparable opportunity to speak and perform in front of a supportive audience. Assemblies give students an opportunity to apply Potomac’s core values of courage, humility, integrity, respect, and perseverance while also keeping alive John Dewey’s vision of a progressive education steeped in active learning, mutual dialogue, and community building. In the Lower School, Potomac’s youngest members often share what they’ve learned in class, from the value of friendships to how to write a sentence. In doing so, they take their first steps toward becoming confident public speakers. As they grow and mature in the Middle and Intermediate Schools, students act in plays they create themselves and engage in conversations with classmates, as well as with visiting authors and politicians. By the time they reach the Upper School, students

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assume more responsibility in planning and managing their assemblies, from organizing peer-to-peer discussions on world issues to supporting each other’s health and wellness. Some traditions are so enduring they feel more like rites of passage than annual events. Many alumni recall their first year on campus through experiences like the Kindergarten Circus or the Lower School Carols. Later, they mark their Middle School years with the maypole dance and athletic competitions at the Greek Olympics. Seniors know their time at Potomac is drawing to a close when they hold the hand of a five-year-old and introduce the young learner to the community at the Opening Assembly. Months later, those same kindergartners hand them a flower and says goodbye at the Closing Assembly.

“Assemblies are memory-makers,” says Michelle O’Hara Levin ’93, The Potomac School’s Lower School dean and librarian, whose two children attend Potomac. “They not only create community in the moment but across generations.” While assemblies connect the past to the present, they are not frozen in time. Many traditions, such as Winter Lights, have adapted to reflect the diversity of Potomac families. Newer events, including Around the World and club assemblies, provide opportunities for students to share their heritage and religion through dance, poetry, and food. “We are trying to embrace as many traditions as are in our buildings,” Michelle says. “We want everyone to feel seen and heard.”

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AGENDA

Liezel Phillips

I N T E R M E D I A T E S C H O O L S T U D E N T, G R A D E 8

5:45 AM Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go! “Before I catch my 6:40 am bus, I go through my morning routine set to a seasonal playlist. Thanks to my dad’s influence, I have ’80s [music] on repeat. I love Tears for Fears’s ‘Everybody Wants to Rule the World.’” 6:40 AM Refresher Time. “My go-to drink is the Starbucks Strawberry Acai Refresher— hold the strawberry add-ins, please— with a dash of peach juice. But I am working to cut that down!”

Lower School assembly with Mr. Langstaff

She recalls one moment in particular that captures the power of assemblies. A third grader once looked out at an audience of more than 1,000 people, tears streaming down her face as she prepared to speak. As her teacher, Michelle wondered if she had pushed the student too far out of her comfort zone. Then, after watching her take a deep breath and deliver her lines, she saw the crowd erupt into applause and cheers. “There were many life lessons in those few seconds,” Michelle says. “For the student, it was knowing you can be nervous and still succeed on stage. And the other students practiced what it meant to be a kind listener and how to show up for someone who’s having a hard time. I still tear up thinking about it.”

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7:00 AM Morning Ride. “My bus ride is my favorite part of the day. There are a lot of Upper Schoolers, and I love talking to them and my IS classmates. It’s my time to catch up with everyone. We talk about what’s going on in the world, study, and sometimes play games together.” 8:30 AM Didactica Iocunda Est (Learning Is Fun). “I love Day 2 because I have Latin with Ms. Matey, and she makes it fun. We play games and Quizlets in teams, which takes the pressure off [more than] if you were to compete as individuals. It helps me focus on learning.” 11:40 AM Voice of the People. “I’m one of the nine elected Student Council representatives, and I am on the special projects committee with my friend Ella. During our clubs block, we gather feedback on IS community needs, and we try to take action or advocate for its needs with other committees. I also love getting to meet with my faith-based affinity alliance group FOCUS.”

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2:00 PM Well Conditioned. “I look forward to my IS field hockey practice. My favorite part is conditioning! Also, eighth graders get to lead the stretches, and I am excited to lead today with my friend Dara. I really like my teammates, and Coach Mays has taught me so much. The team is super supportive of one another.” 4:15 PM Routine. “After school I run, do homework, take singing lessons, and sometimes I get off at a different bus stop with friends, and we hang out!” 7:00 PM All About Family. “We always eat dinner as a family. I love spaghetti nights! We always have a vegetable and fruit at the table. Because my father is British, there are always peas! Sometimes my mom and I will make chocolate chip cookies together as a treat. Afterwards, I will try to FaceTime with my sister, who is at boarding school. She is super busy, so it’s nice when we get to connect!”

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OUT IN THE FIELD: IS students engaged in Service Learning projects with community partners and around campus

SYLLABUS JOY WEBSTER

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“You are a part of it now.” That statement of inclusion, made by a Calfee Community and Cultural Center board member and alumnus to Potomac Service Learning Director Joy Webster, captured a profound shift that happens through service. It isn’t just about a team of volunteers helping out; it’s also about becoming part of a connected community. Joy, a former Potomac Lower School teacher, is entering her third year as director. She reflects on the “why” that drives this work, the moments that keep her going, and the profound impact service learning experiences have on our students. IT STA RT ED W IT H A SA N DW I C H During Joy’s first year teaching at Potomac, a small, seemingly simple act of service revealed a deeper truth: Service is about more than just action; it’s also about connection and purpose. Joy recalls, “During one of Potomac’s Sandwich Days, a fifth-grade student asked me, ‘Do you think we could ever go there and see?’” The student was asking about Martha’s Table, a local partner that Potomac has made sandwiches for for more than 35 years. This question, born from a desire to understand the where and who behind the student’s actions, led to a new initiative. The class took a field trip to Martha’s Table, where they met the staff, played with preschoolers, and saw the operation firsthand. “That experience was kind of a foundational experience of what

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Sandwich Day is and the needs that this act of service meets,” Joy shares. This simple trip shifted the focus from a race to see who could make a sandwich the fastest to a meaningful connection with the community, setting a new standard of dignity donations for our program. P U R P O S E A N D PLAC E For Joy and her team, the core purpose of service learning is to help students understand their place in a community. “Your well-being is my well-being, and my well-being is your well-being, and we’re all connected in that way,” she states. This philosophy is deeply aligned with Potomac’s mission of leading lives of purpose and generosity of spirit. Joy’s greatest source of inspiration comes not only from the students but also from the community partners themselves. She speaks with admiration about people like Minnie Orozco from Cornerstones, who personally delivers emergency supplies to those in need, using her own resources. “She just cares for her neighbors in a very real way. That’s what keeps me going,” Joy says. A S H I FT IN PE R SPEC TIV E Joy shares a powerful example of an Upper School history class reading Elie Wiesel’s Night. To deepen their understanding of what it means to witness history, students were connected with residents at Vinson Hall, a retirement community. The students sat for an hour, listening to the residents share their firsthand experiences of

“ Your well-being is my wellbeing, and my well-being is your well-being, and we’re all connected in that way.”

J OY W E B ST E R

historical events. “It was such a beautiful connection—for our students to be an audience for them and their stories,” she says. Another example involves a Spanish class studying nutrition. The students collaborated with Cornerstones to create a bilingual recipe book with healthy recipes. “It gave a real-world, meaningful, purposeful use of what they were learning that met a specific need in our community,” Joy says. MOME N TS OF TR A N SFORMATION For Joy, a successful outcome is less about a project’s completion and more about the connections and personal growth it sparks. “For me, it is about connection, and it is about reflection,” she says. “These moments of transformation can be found everywhere.”

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10 Ways to Incorporate Service Learning into Your Life 1.

Make trail mix as a family to donate to Martha’s Table or Cornerstones.

Donate gently used clothing to Women Giving Back, The Clothesline, or A Wider Circle.

Donate used bikes to Bikes for the World.

Donate gently used sports equipment to Leveling the Playing Field.

Consider buying sweets from our partners at Cameron’s Chocolates or Together We Bake.

Consider more sustainable habits of consumption. Reuse and recycle when possible.

Buy produce from local farmers markets.

Consider visiting residents at a local assisted living facility. Volunteer to play games, listen to stories, and lift spirits.

Follow our community partners on social media to support them with your engagement and learn about community needs and opportunities.

10. Look for everyday ways to do your “little bit of good” where you can! * The organizations listed are based in the DC region; please consider supporting community organizations in your own area.

She recalled a second grader who developed a special bond with a Chesterbrook Residences assisted living facility resident, writing her letters and visiting every time the student returned. “For the second graders, [it was important] to see how much just that little act of going, their very presence there, made all the difference,” she says. A recent Summer Break trip to Appalachia with Potomac’s Upper School students provided a powerful example of this transformative power. The program, built on the principle of reciprocity,

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immersed students in the geography and culture of the region. In addition to several partner initiatives students participated in, they also helped build a sandbox for the Calfee Community and Cultural Center and played with the children. “It just meant everything to them to be able to see the changes that they were making and see the impact that they were having,” Joy reflects. The experience was equally impactful for the adults, including her, who worked with the students. It reinforced her belief in the power of a “little bit of good.”

“Desmond Tutu said, ‘Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.’ And that’s what motivates me,” says Joy. As the program grows, her goal is to continue to enhance the curriculum and learning outcomes for students, ensuring that service learning remains a foundational part of a Potomac education and a powerful tool for inspiring a lifetime of purpose and connection.

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PULSE

How Do You Unplug From Screens?

S E ME DR A T. F IE LD S Director of Extended Day and the Education That Continues Program (ETC) When I need to unplug, I find immense joy in crafting wellness essentials, such as homemade room sprays, candles, and soaps, that bring calm and comfort to everyday life. It’s my way of caring for myself and others through natural, feel-good remedies. I also love baking sweet treats and mixing up fun mocktails. There’s something so warm and inviting about sharing what I create with the people I cherish.

With so much of daily life spent in front of screens, taking time to disconnect has become more important than ever. We asked members of our community how they unplug and recharge.

CO REY SPIN O SI Grade 5 Teacher To unplug and step away from screen time, I prioritize spending quality time with friends and family in person. Whether it’s sharing a meal at a new restaurant, spending time together outside, or simply catching up face-to- face, these moments help me recharge and stay grounded. Being present with loved ones offers a meaningful break from technology and reminds me of the value of real-world connection.

CATH E R IN E KA H L LIN SKE Y ’09 President, Alumni Governing Council There are two ways that I unplug from screens. The first is that I love to get outside on the tennis court—my favorite way to get fresh air and keep active. My second and favorite way to unplug is just spending time with my daughter. At almost 18 months, she is the best companion to head to the park or just out for a long walk.

TA L I N G AJ E N D R AG A D K A R Student, Grade 10 I went to camp for two weeks this summer, and no one had their phones. The camp allowed me to form deeper relationships and make real friends without all of the artificiality of devices and social media. I think going into an environment where there are no devices at all is the best way to take a break from screens. Everyone should try to find a community where they can unplug and form genuine relationships.

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I L L U S T R AT I O N S B Y K AT H RY N R AT H K E

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G A M E D AY ROBOTICS

Santiago Cangahuala ’27 Santiago (Santi) Cangahuala, a robotics enthusiast and member of nationally ranked Upper School Robotics Team 12C Caffeine, where coding is his role, shares his pre-tournament routine, which is all about finding calm before the chaos. The day before a competition, he completely disconnects from robotics, opting to go to the gym, read, or spend time with his family—the biggest part of his life. The junior believes this separation is crucial for reducing stress and building the confidence needed to perform at his best. VIBE CHECK: “I came to Potomac in ninth grade from Norwood, where I was already active in LEGO robotics. I knew that Potomac had a great robotics program. When I finally joined, I immediately noticed that the community was awesome and supportive. Everyone wants us to succeed, and it’s so much more close-knit.”

experiment with new ideas for our robots. This is the type of inventive thinking that remains vital throughout the season. Creativity can give a team a crucial advantage at a competition.” CIRCUIT HUDDLE: Santi, who plays for the Potomac boys varsity soccer team, also has pre-match huddles with his robotics teammates. “We confirm the robot is powered up and ready, then rally around our driver, offering words of encouragement,” he says. “The goal is to instill confidence and lighten the driver’s mental load, emphasizing that we are a team and not just one person under the spotlight.” THE HUMAN SIDE: Robotics isn’t just about machines. Santi’s ritual includes spending time with his family, especially his younger sister. This grounding connection is his good luck charm, reminding him of his support system outside of the competition.

THE LONG GAME: Santi and his team do their most crucial competition preparation months in advance, properly managing their time to ensure the robot and code are ready. Staying on top of things helps him stay calm and confident on tournament day, and prevents last-minute frantic scrambling.

BEYOND THE CODE: Santi’s role extends beyond just coding and building. He’s also in charge of the team’s engineering notebook, which provides detailed documentation of their design process. This creative, behind-the-scenes work is an essential part of their success. “It’s all about time management. I want us to be properly prepared,” he says.

SYSTEMS CHECK: Before a match, Santi’s team runs through a meticulous mental checklist. They ensure every part is accounted for, multiple team members have access to the code, and the robot is packed securely for travel. It’s a team effort focused on being prepared for any scenario, from a broken part to a teammate’s computer crashing. S OLO VS. SYNERGY: While coding requires intense focus, Santi avoids getting lost in his own thoughts. He finds it helpful to work with his teammates, as their different perspectives prevent tunnel vision. It’s a mix of collaborative problemsolving and focused individual work.

A TEAM OF ALL- STARS: Santi praises his team for its strength, which is due in part to team members’ diverse skill sets. “Everyone can build and has a basic understanding of coding, so they can fill in for each other when needed,” he says. “This versatility ensures that a setback for one member doesn’t stop the entire team.”

BYTE OF CREATIVITY: “Creativity is the heart of robotics. It’s especially crucial at the start of a season when there’s no optimal design. This lets us

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P H O T O B Y L O R E T TA S E V I E R

— By Rita Deurdulian

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IN MOTION

Potomac’s campus was alive with tradition and celebration throughout the spring and fall seasons. The 2024–25 school year closed with time-honored events, including our cherished May Day festivities and a beautiful Commencement ceremony honoring the Class of 2025. As the 2025–26 school year began, we proudly recognized excellence in teaching by celebrating the recipients of the 2025 Bill Cook Excellent Teaching Award, Upper School teacher Giorgio Secondi and Lower School grade 3 teacher Jenni Hoffmann (pictured below).

1. Sixth graders performing the Call to Morris dance at May Day 2. Taking class outdoors to study Pimmit Run 3. Senior-directed Upper School One-Act Play Festival

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4. Celebrating cultural heritage at Around the World 5. Creativity on display for annual Fifty Nifty assembly 6. Welcoming family for Grandparents and Special Friends Day

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7. Clowning around at Kindergarten Circus 8. Teaching faculty pottery for a Senior Project 9. Performing at the Intermediate School Spring Concert 10. Grade 8 students during Chesapeake Bay trip

11. Lower Schoolers taking on robotics

13. The jubilation of Commencement

12. Upper Schoolers showing school spirit for the first day of classes

14. Middle Schooler jumping into the Greek Olympics

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CURRENTS

Murals of Connection Ash Samuels ’17 partnered with students to create artwork that reflects creativity, resilience, and belonging. B Y

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Last spring, Potomac alum Ash Samuels ’17 returned to campus to collaborate with Langston Chambliss ’25 and Karrington Hayes ’25 to create a stunning new mural in the Hub for Connected Community (formerly the Center for Community, Equity, and Racial Justice). Located within the Upper School, the Hub serves as “a place for students to gather to share ideas, explore issues, and build coalitions for positive change.” Over the course of several months, the team carefully planned, designed, and painted the mural, transforming the space with a work of art that reflects both creativity and community spirit. Throughout their time at Potomac, Ash, a passionate member of the Visual and Performing Arts Concentration program, described themselves as “one of those students who was always in the art room.” Within this community, they were able to engage and connect with fellow talented students, forming the bonds that characterized their Upper School experience. They also were involved in the Gender and Sexuality Alliance. After graduating in 2017, they proceeded to earn a BFA in illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design. Their pieces, which highlight themes of generational memory, Black girlhood, neurodivergence, and emotional legacies, have been featured in numerous exhibitions across the Northeast, as well as several publications. They explained, “I aim

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to merge my variety of experiences with illustration into something that feels like a reflection of me and the communities that I’m a part of.” Thus, when then-seniors Langston and Karrington reached out, Ash was thrilled to help enhance Potomac’s Hub for Connected Community. The project included two murals. The first, more complex piece involved working directly on various parts of the room, customizing the design to those dimensions. For the second mural, the team worked on panels in the art room and later installed them onto the Hub’s walls. The monthlong process proved to be a deeply meaningful opportunity for artistic expression, personal growth, and overcoming challenges. The team dedicated the first two weeks to designing the murals. They began with simplified sketches, which Ash described as “almost like little thumbnails,” before refining them through a series of drafts and revisions. During this period, they were also choosing color palettes, ordering paint colors, and deciding how much of the colors were needed. It was important to the team to make sure not to overwhelm the space, as

the Hub for Connected Community is a deeply intentional outlet that fosters authentic connections and potential vulnerability. Thus, they wanted the design to facilitate that as much as possible, creating a comfortable environment for all. Ash, Langston, and Karrington all contributed a multitude of ideas, and with a bit of trial and error, they consolidated the design into one coherent vision. “We all wanted so much for this mural because it meant so much,” Ash said.

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THE TEAM: Ash Samuels ’17, Karrington Hayes ’25, and Langston Chambliss ’25

With the design solidified, there was much painting and implementation to be done to complete the murals. After many late nights at Potomac, the team members achieved a design that they are proud of and accurately reflects the space. Since the team revealed the finished product to the Upper School, students have stopped by to admire the new addition, many of them inspired by the murals and the interconnectedness they represent.

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This project crystallized Ash’s passion for merging art and community, inspiring them to launch NeuroNest, a multidisciplinary creative outlet centered on neurodiverse artists— “anybody who has felt excluded or overwhelmed in traditional artmaking,” they said. NeuroNest includes tutoring, workshops, mural residencies, and other forms of mentorship and community. “A lot of my creative experience led me up to

this point,” Ash said, referring to the Potomac murals. As an aspiring clinical psychologist focusing on art therapy, they are eager to do more projects like this in the future.

Elizabeth Ahn, a senior at Potomac, serves as a co-editor-in-chief for The Current, the school’s student newspaper.

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oducer r p m l fi y r a t n e Iconic docum ’ 79 M I E H N E G G DAV I S G U ft films a r c o t s e k a t on what it ulture c r u o e p a h s that

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o the 62-year-old Davis, who runs the production company Concordia Studio and directed the biographical films shown at party nominating conventions for Barack Obama and Joe Biden, the sudden ubiquity of nonfiction visual storytelling is a mixed bag. Davis first broke through with his 2006 film An Inconvenient Truth, which won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and he has since directed acclaimed works such as Waiting for Superman, the Emmy-winning Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie, and Deaf President Now! about the historic protest at Gallaudet University. Here he reflects on what has changed since his early success and how he looks for subjects that will appeal to an audience with many other options to choose from. Would you mind telling me whatever version of your life story explains how you got from Potomac to documentary films? You just cut right to the chase. How do you start an interview? Do you have a softening-up technique? Usually I have more time—I usually have hours. It’s so different, person to person. I’m ready. I’m an open book and raw nerve. I’m ready to get into my childhood trauma. OK, then. Tell me about your father. My father made documentaries and political commercials. For someone who was so accomplished, he was so modest and so personable. By the time he died, he had won four Academy Awards and had been nominated 12 times. He was a modest man. He rode his bike to work, and he just made one great film after the other. I thought that was the coolest life you could ever live. I remember taking the city bus down Wisconsin Avenue to his office and just watching his studio make films. It was, to a young kid, really exciting—editing machines whirring, people having deep discussions, and my father being the boss of it all. But you didn’t immediately follow him. By the time I graduated from college, I had this feeling that the best days of documentary were over. I turned out to be wrong.

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documentaries, that changed—the storytelling and the vision were mine, very much my expression rather than me being in service of someone else’s.

How did you make the shift? I was working toward directing this film What changed? I think audiences that ended up being called Training really like nonfiction right now. I Day with Denzel Washington, and think they find the world to be a I was fired. I’d sold the script to scary place, and nonfiction explains Warner Brothers, but they didn’t care the world to them. In the last 10 that I had been the one that brought to 15 years, documentaries have it to them. They had no loyalty had this amazing rise in people’s to me. It was heartbreaking and consciousness. People expect to disillusioning. watch great documentaries on Then I started to get inspired Netflix. They are, on the whole, by these friends of mine who were much better and much more gripping, in Teach for America. I thought, with great storytelling. “Maybe I should make a movie about a handful of first-year teachers Is that due to technology? When going into L.A.’s toughest schools.” I’d crew for my father, back then, you I bought a really small, inexpensive needed film cameras, which meant camera and started following five that every 11 minutes or so, you teachers. That became my first had to stop shooting and change documentary. the film. It was all very expensive and technically very difficult. Now, You’ve done about a dozen more people make good documentaries on since. How do you choose your their iPhones. subjects? I’ve always been drawn to people that inspire me. The You’re not doing that, movies that I’ve worked on that are though. No, but we can especially moving are portraits of make a documentary people—it could be a public-school now, and millions of teacher or Michael J. Fox or Al Gore people can see it on or a musician like Jimmy Page. I the first night. That’s don’t like being pigeonholed as this pretty great. But at the guy who makes issue films, because I same time, there’s so think that misses the point. My films much competition for are always about a human being. your attention that you have to make something Why is that? In the simplest way, I really extraordinary for see myself almost like a midwife who people to see it. helps people tell their own story. You know, a midwife doesn’t conceive But you started in more the baby, or carry the baby, or nurse conventional Hollywood stuff. the baby. A midwife helps the person I tried that for a long time. I made who does all that to deliver the baby. a couple films but became more successful as a TV director on You’re following people addressing different shows; however, they were a social issue more than exploring never my creations. When I went into the problem itself. Of course, I

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cared about climate change. When I saw Al Gore’s slideshow, I was like, “This is so important. We have to do this.” But my approach to that movie was, how do you get to know this man in a different way? How do you understand this man who I admire, and get the audience to feel that? People didn’t know him for who he really was, because he’s always seen through a political lens. Same with Malala. I assume one of the challenges with these iconic figures—Bill Gates and U2, or Barack Obama and Joe Biden—is that viewers come in thinking they already know them. All the elements need to come together to tell a good story so that, by the end, the audience feels a sense of connection, this sense of inspiration. It doesn’t have to be a feel-good movie. Some of them aren’t. Some of them are quite scary, like the end of An Inconvenient Truth. You feel kind of shaken after that, but you think, “Wow, I’m so glad this person is out there in the world working on this.” But your films don’t seem to have a consistent visual identity. I think that’s because every story is unique. The last film I directed was about Gallaudet University. It features four

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characters who are deaf, and their deafness and means of expression were so unique that I couldn’t just make the film the same way that I had made films before. It has to be different. Each one has to be sort of handmade. What does that actually entail? Every movie takes about two-and-ahalf years. There’s a lot of research. Sometimes I’ll do 10 or 12 interviews with a person—30 to 40 hours that become the core of the film. You don’t use all of it, but it gives you the core ideas and themes in the movie. There’s a lot of work shooting vérité—that’s a pretentious word that just means you’re following a person in their natural environment. Then editing can take six months to a year, assembling all that footage that you’ve gathered and finding some cohesion so that you can create a film in which the audience can find the story. At the same time, you’re running a production company that is developing and financing projects you don’t direct. We’re trying to find documentaries that the people will watch. There’s nothing more heartbreaking than making a wellmade documentary that no one sees, and that happens. It’s lots of money, and it’s two-and-a-half years of work.

“ I was an insecure kid who wasn’t good at school. Potomac didn’t let me fall through the cracks. There was a lot of love and attention and care for a kid who was very, very lost.”

It sounds like there are projects you want to do but haven’t. I would love to do another climate change movie. I find it to be maddening that this many years after An Inconvenient Truth, we haven’t done enough to really address the issue. So that’s urgent to me, but I have to find a good story to tell. I’ve come close here, but it would be irresponsible of me to spend a lot of money and a lot of time making something that I don’t think will be a good movie. We got away from my first question. How’d you get here from Potomac? I was an insecure kid who wasn’t good at school. Potomac didn’t let me fall through the cracks. There was a lot of love, attention, and acceptance for a kid who was very, very lost. That made a huge difference in my life.

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The Term

R TO

A UR IL

O .C

R ST

S ON

IT R E NG U R K I YO T U RI N EN ST G O V B I XT NE

g l n l i o d R a e ne le o es whi wo k a m soar ls? T s t a p al or ha W r tu r s t e s t s i n r a e nv rait the st oth i n t ra an era the o— s t ’ d h ve eal r w tup , an ke v re nde star ofit ma r u . fo n a t , p can ure a c t— ent th du fi t v o pr rke k a a a m bre or

nowing whether or not

to invest in the next big thing takes a heap of savviness, a pinch of nerve, and a dash of luck. You need to see not just the market, but also how a product could redefine it. You need to see the demand that drives revenue today and the potential to scale tomorrow. And you need to trust your instincts on whether the moment is right for a given solution. It’s a formula venture capitalists Damien Petty ’93 and Stefanie Thomas Martin ’03 know well. For more than two decades, Damien has assessed startup technology companies, cutting his teeth investing in Skype, where he represented the founders from their first investment through the company’s $8.5 billion sale to Microsoft. Today, as a partner for LA-based Morpheus Ventures, he focuses on quantum and highperformance computing companies, such as Ten63, which combines generative AI and physics-based models to develop first- and best-inclass therapeutics. “For us, it’s critical to know who’s creating something truly new versus what’s come before,” says Damien, who parlayed a love of science, a physics degree from the University of Virginia, and an MBA from UCLA into a knack for investing in deep tech. Similarly, Stefanie turned an entrepreneurial upbringing, a Wharton marketing degree, and an MBA from the University of Michigan into a passion for impact investing. As an early-stage investor for Impact America Fund, she gained recognition from Fast Company as part of a

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rising cadre of Black women venture capitalists challenging industry norms by tapping into the $3.4 trillion buying power of multiethnic consumers and investing in minority- and women-led businesses. Now a partner at the DC-based Zeal Capital Partners, Stefanie continues to support equity-minded companies making an impact in financial services, health care, and the future of work. “We focus on entrepreneurs who are really mission-oriented and building big businesses with massive impact,” says Stefanie. For both Damien and Stefanie, business models, market size, and scalability matter. But the single most important factor in knowing when to invest? The character of the people at the helm. “We focus on founders first because a company’s success—its ability to handle challenges and solve problems—all comes down to the grit and determination of the founding team,” Damien says. Here, these two veteran investors share the traits they’ve learned to look for in a game-changing founder.

Knows Their Limits

Entrepreneurs need to understand their product, why it’s necessary, and how it fits into the market. But they also must recognize their shortcomings and blind spots, and know how to address them. “In the early stages, we look for founders who really know the nuances of the problem,” says Stefanie. “Typically, they have lived through it themselves and gained insight from

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that experience. But they also need the self-awareness to know where they lack skills or knowledge, and have the ability to bring in the right people to fill those gaps.” Stefanie saw both in Helen Adeosun, CEO and cofounder of CareAcademy, an online platform that helps train the growing number of caregivers for the elderly in the United States. “Helen knew the problem intimately but didn’t have the technical expertise to build the platform,” says Stefanie. “She was able to effectively recruit people from competing companies, which was a strong signal of her leadership and ability to attract the right talent.” For Stefanie, this kind of selfawareness isn’t a soft skill—it’s a critical business skill that shows founders can build strong teams and successfully scale over time.

WANT A FOUNDER WHO’S “ WE GOT THIS DISTORTION FIELD

Invents the Impossible

AROUND WHAT THEY ’RE TRYING TO BUILD. IT ’S NOT JUST, ‘I’LL FIGURE OUT HOW MY PRODUCT FITS IN THE MARKET.’ IT ’S,

‘I’m going to create the market.’”

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Steve Jobs, cofounder of Apple, is often remembered for his genius in design and marketing but even more, perhaps, for his ability to convince others to see possibilities they couldn’t otherwise. Bud Tribble, one of the top software developers for the company, called it Jobs’s “reality distortion field,” or his talent for creating his “own new world through sheer mental force.” “That’s what we’re looking for,” says Damien. “We want a founder who’s got this distortion field around what they’re trying to build. It’s not just, ‘I’ll figure out how my product fits into the market.’ It’s, ‘I’m going to create the market.’”

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company would be in three, five, or more years.” In emerging sectors like quantum computing, where uncertainty runs high and the stakes can be even higher, a polished pitch will pique interest. But Damien says he must probe deeper, searching for leaders with conviction, a clear technology road map, and the kind of vision powerful enough to bend reality. That combination is critical in turning a good idea into a successful, paradigm-shifting company.

Adapts and Excels

Damien found that quality in Chad Rigetti. Considered a pioneer in the field of quantum computing, Chad created Rigetti Computing, now valued at $4.4 billion. In 2021, the company unveiled the world’s first scalable multichip quantum processor. But when Rigetti launched the company in 2013, commercial quantum computers were still in their infancy, and IBM was years away from offering one on the cloud. “The sector was still emerging,” says Damien. “We invested in him in 2020 because Chad could explain complex science in very basic terms, show exactly how it delivered value, and lay out a clear vision of where the

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In every industry, markets shift. Technologies change. Ideas flounder or fail. Founders need to navigate all the turbulence and ensure the company keeps moving forward. For Stefanie, that means finding leaders who are able to pivot and persevere. She’s seen that quality in Wemimo Abbey and Samir Goel, cofounders of Esusu, a $1 billion company that today helps renters build credit and property owners find reliable tenants. When their original idea, a peer-topeer lending platform, wasn’t gaining the traction they hoped, they didn’t fold. Instead, they dug into market research, uncovered an urgent need, and reshaped their model. “That’s when it became a national brand,” says Stefanie. “They stuck with it long enough to find the right opportunity, and that persistence turned Esusu into a billion-dollar business.” For Stefanie, Wemimo and Samir’s story illustrates a universal truth about entrepreneurship: Setbacks are inevitable, but failure is optional.

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NEED TO NAVIGATE ALL “ FOUNDERS THE TURBULENCE AND ENSURE THE COMPANY KEEPS MOVING FORWARD. FOR ME, THAT MEANS FINDING LEADERS WHO ARE ABLE TO

“

pivot and persevere. S T E F A N I E

Every company will face obstacles and naysayers, she says. What distinguishes successful founders isn’t avoiding them, but pushing past them with creativity, grit, and persistence.

Inspires Greatness

Passion. Clarity of vision. The ability to bring people along. These are not just vital qualities for a founder to possess in the boardroom or when trying to sell potential investors on a company. They also are necessary in all areas of running a business, especially in defining a corporate culture that inspires future and current employees. As an example of someone who does this well, Damien cites Henry Ludlam, founder of Goodstack, a fintech platform that helps corporations by vetting and managing charitable donations while also supporting nonprofits by providing access to technology, resources, and fundraising opportunities. Damien recalls listening to Ludlam during a panel: When asked how he attracts high-quality talent who share his commitment to his mission, Ludlam responded simply,

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“I don’t.” Instead, he said, his job is to find talented, capable employees and then begin the hard work of making them care about the mission. “Ludlam sees himself as the primary evangelist for what he’s building,” says Damien. “When we see that in a founder, we really get excited and want to work with them.” Whether backing an early-stage company that’s still unproven or a breakthrough technology still searching for its market, Damien and Stefanie find these types of qualities in prospective founders energizing. But even with all of these unique core traits, they still expect entrepreneurs to have an appetite for improvement. “The business model and the market are important factors that we look at, but it’s not just about the company evolving and growing,” says Stefanie. “Investing is about finding people and teams that can evolve and grow as well. That’s why when I meet a founder, the first question I ask myself is always, ‘Can this person go from scrappy startup founder to executive and CEO?’”

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y S l i t y m l e a F

bila

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ALEXANDER GELFAND

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Michael Farah ’99 left Wall Street to build a Brooklyn restaurant around the flavors of his mother’s table

)

arah F a l i b a (N

PHOTOS C

OURTESY

(Michael

Farah)

Nabila’s, which is named after Michael’s mother and pays homage to her cooking, has earned rave reviews and a devoted clientele.

HAVING SUCCESSFULLY MADE THE LEAP from financial analyst to restaurateur, Michael Farah ’99 occasionally gets asked for advice by people who harbor similar dreams of leaving their desk jobs and opening an eatery. “I always tell them, ‘You really shouldn’t do it,’” says Michael, who left Wall Street in 2017 and now runs a Lebanese restaurant in the same Brooklyn neighborhood where he lives with his wife and their two sons. “‘But you should definitely do it!’”

Those conflicting impulses stem directly from personal experience. Since opening in 2022, Nabila’s, which is named after Michael’s mother and pays homage to her cooking, has earned rave reviews and a devoted clientele. It has also given Michael the satisfaction of

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building something tangible in his own community, a place where he can share the food he loves with others. “There is something deeply satisfying when you have a busy night and you hear laughter in the dining room and you see a lot of smiling faces,” he says. But getting to that point—let alone opening Nabila’s doors—required dealing with many hurdles and a lot of stress, neither of which have entirely evaporated. “It’s a fantasy when you run a restaurant to think that it’s ever going to hit cruise control. It doesn’t. Every week, you have new challenges and new problems,” says Michael, who describes his new equilibrium as “a sort of managed anxiety.” Michael’s previous occupation wasn’t exactly stress-free either. After Potomac, Michael attended the University of Virginia and stepped straight into a 15-year career in finance, much of it spent as an energy company analyst at hedge funds. “It was some of the most intellectually fascinating and challenging and dynamic work I’ve ever done,” he says. After a while, though, the pressure and intensity of Wall Street began to wear on him. “Even if you love it, you will run out of steam,” he says. “I think a lot of people in the industry struggle with the question of, ‘Can I have a second career, and what do I do?’” In Michael’s case, the answer lay in his mother’s kitchen. Nabila Farah was born and raised in Beirut, where she met Michael’s father and gave birth to his older brother George ’96. In 1978, several years into Lebanon’s civil war, the Farah family took flight, first to Egypt and Cyprus, then to the Bay Area, where Michael was born, then to Saudi Arabia, where he spent his early childhood, and

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Nabila’s in Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill neighborhood, 248 Court Street

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ultimately to Washington, DC, where Nabila established herself as the doyenne of the Arab expat dinner party scene, serving guests the dishes she had learned to cook at her own mother’s side. This was not the standard fare offered at most Lebanese restaurants: a handful of dips, a couple of salads, and a bevy of grilled meats. Instead, it leaned heavily toward the complex, multilayered dishes lovingly produced in home kitchens by Lebanese mothers and grandmothers. Many of these can now be found on the menu at Nabila’s, such as sheesh barak (baked beef dumplings spiked with mint-yogurt sauce), kousa (baby zucchini stuffed with seasoned beef and rice), and the fragrant okra stew known as bamieh.

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The Term

Those same dishes anchored the catering business that Nabila launched out of a tiny storefront in McLean, Virginia. In time, it attracted clients such as the IMF, the World Bank, and various Arab embassies. Michael knew that this sort of homestyle Lebanese cooking was largely unknown to New York diners. And having watched his mother build a successful business serving customers in the nation’s capital, he figured he could do the same by delivering Lebanese dishes to curious foodies in Brooklyn. “For many years, I didn’t have a clear plan of how I was going to make it happen, whether I was going make it happen, or what it would even look like,” he says. “But I had great passion for

the food world. My whole family does; we’re all kind of obsessed with food. And in my dream, I would bring what I thought was a compelling idea to the neighborhood where I live in New York.” The risks were high. Michael’s children were toddlers, he had no food-industry experience whatsoever, and while he had saved enough to self-finance the attempt, his pockets were not infinitely deep. “If it failed, it would’ve been pretty punishing on us as a family,” says Michael, who adds that there were “a million reasons to think this was a bad idea.” By 2017, however, he had burned out on the Wall Street lifestyle. And more than anything, he feared waking up one day and realizing that he’d missed his

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Michael re-creates the spirit of his mother’s dinner parties and shares her beautiful cooking—the kind of food rarely found outside of Lebanese homes.

chance to make a go of the restaurant business. So he took the same disciplined approach to launching Nabila’s that he had applied to his work as a financial analyst. Beginning in 2018, Michael spent more than a year commuting between Brooklyn and DC, shadowing his mother several days a week to learn about her operation. His chef de cuisine, Luis Ahuet, eventually made a similar pilgrimage, following Nabila around her kitchen and painstakingly quantifying the unwritten recipes she held in her head and hands. The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily derailed the process of renovating the space Michael had found in Cobble Hill, and once the work began, it proved to

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Michael farah on being stuck:

Every now and then, we’ll reach out to her if we’re struggling to figure out a new dish. We’ll call her, and she’ll have some secret sauce that only a Lebanese grandmother knows.

be a nightmare. “I thought, ‘Hey, I’m a finance guy; if there’s one thing I’ll be able to do, it’s project the costs right,’” Michael says. “I was way off.” Even after Nabila’s opened to instant acclaim, challenges remained. The classic Lebanese dishes that Ahuet had translated and refined required an inordinate amount of time and effort to produce at scale without compromising on quality, particularly given New York City’s high labor costs and the limits of what most diners are willing to pay for even the most refined Middle Eastern cuisine. “People don’t want to spend what they spend when they go to a French restaurant,” Michael says. “There’s this assumption it should be cheap.” As a result,

pricing the food in a way that would make Nabila’s profitable posed what Michael calls “a unique mathematical problem”—one that took nearly a year and a half to solve. In addition, while Michael had originally intended to offer counter service only, it quickly became clear that customers wanted a full-service experience, lingering at their tables amid the restaurant’s Lebaneseinflected décor, which includes tealand-cream tile flooring and wallpaper bearing floral and geometric patterns. So he redesigned the setup, allowing diners to peruse the restaurant’s dishes on a countertop much as they might have at one of his mother’s dinner parties before being served their selections back at their tables. “The whole restaurant has been a problem-solving challenge,” he says. Michael has solved at least some of those problems. Nabila’s is now in the green, and he no longer has to spend every waking moment on the job. He has hired a restaurant manager to help smooth out the day-to-day issues, and when things get really tricky, he still has his mom to lean on. “Every now and then, we’ll reach out to her if we’re struggling to figure out a new dish,” Michael says. “We’ll call her, and she’ll have some secret sauce that only a Lebanese grandmother knows.”

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Beyond

Beyond Chasing the Story Rachel Chason ’13 started as an intern on The Washington Post’s local desk after graduating from Duke University. After nearly five years of covering politics and government in DC and Maryland, she headed to Dakar, Senegal, to fulfill a dream of being a foreign correspondent. For the past three years, Rachel has traveled widely in West Africa and beyond, covering an area that includes more than 20 countries. She’s reported on everything from increasing extremism and Russia’s rise in the Sahel to pollution by oil companies in the Niger Delta and the impact of climate change on Lake Chad. Dakar is her base, but the job means being in the field, trying to take readers to places they might not know much about. She says one of the highlights has been putting the French she learned at Potomac—thanks to Madame Swope and Madame Searchinger—to use in francophone West Africa. You can follow more of Rachel’s work on her Instagram, @rchasonwp.

Rachel covering a dance festival in Burkina Faso in 2024. The West African country has, in recent years, seen a surge in violence driven by an al-Qaeda affiliate but still celebrates cultural festivals regularly.

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P H O T O B Y C A R M E N YA S M I N E A B D A L I

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Class Notes ECHOES

Inspiring Young Artists In the 1950s, the Intermediate School art classroom was alive with creativity. Professor Peppino Mangravite, who first taught at Potomac in 1925, returned regularly between 1952 and 1969 to lead art classes. A renowned professor, painter, writer, and critic, Mangravite brought distinction and vision to Potomac’s art program, inspiring generations of students and reinforcing the school’s dedication to artistic growth.

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Class Notes 1946

80TH REUNION Nancy Hamilton Shepherd nhshepherd31@gmail.com Calling All Revelers: All classes who have celebrated their 50th Reunion Plus! Mark your calendars for your 80th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

Betsy Silver Alexander reports, “My wonderful granddaughter, who has been living with me in Menlo Park for the past six years, took a new job in San Francisco and has had to move closer to work. At 92, I don’t feel comfortable living alone, so I have moved to an assisted living center, Oakmont of Redwood City. Things are going well: I’m still on the Vestry at my church and will be renting my condo, not selling it, so I can still attend our board meetings via Zoom.” Jerrie Kohlmeier Bartlett shares, “I live within the confines of Parkinson’s disease and the twists and turns of its muscular misbehavior, as well as macular degeneration. I enjoy regular visits from Chris, my photographer son in New York; my sculptor son, Steve, in Bath, ME; and my daughter Catherine, in San Anselmo, CA, with (sometimes) her daughter, Caroline, who has just graduated from UC Davis. I also delight in reciting/singing folk songs such as we sang at Potomac. But ‘old age is not for sissies’ is a reality here at Cathedral Village on the edge of Philadelphia, so I’m grateful for the presence of Allen; we will have been married for 68 years this December.”

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D ON’ T SEE YOUR CLAS S YEAR?

If your year doesn’t appear in Class Notes, it means we didn’t receive any notes from your class. We really (really!) want to hear from you. Please send your notes and photos to term@potomacschool.org.

Audrey Hadow Michie says, “I had a wonderful surprise this year. My two daughters went to Italy and found the villa just above Florence that I had stayed in with two friends from college in 1951. Back then, it was just a pension. Now it’s a four-star hotel. My daughters, Forsyth and Lindsay, brought a copy of the journal that I kept during my 1951 trip and shared it with the concierge, who was delighted to receive it and to hear the story of my trip from all those years ago when we came to the villa, arriving in a car we called ‘Hannibal’ because it had crossed the Alps. The concierge let them tour the villa and the grounds, complete with the swimming pool I remember from when I stayed there. They took lots of pictures, and it was wonderful to see it and relive those memories. Another exciting thing that happened this year is that Lindsay took me and an old family friend to Clemmons, NC, to see the house I raised my children in. We lived there 25 years. The wife of the same family that bought it from us was still living there 39 years later. It was so nice to see that house looking just as happy as when we lived there, and even more so with all the changes the family had made. It was beautiful inside and out, with the yard full of trees and a nice garden. I’m still living in Lynchburg, VA, with Lindsay, writing every day in my journal, which is full of memories of the past, including my two years at Potomac School and living in Washington, DC, just down the street from the school. I realize from all this writing that I’ve lived

Class Notes come from many sources. We do our best to edit for accuracy and clarity.

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Class Notes a very full and interesting life in several countries, having had lots of adventures.” Nancy Hamilton Shepherd writes, “Dear Friends—Our time of life definitely has its challenges but also its joys! Jerrie Kohlmeier Bartlett and Betsy Silver Alexander both mention the enjoyment of grandchildren. Now I do too. I went to VT for a week this summer. A number of my family members live in Lincoln, Vermont, which is about a half-hour drive north of Middlebury. Others, from CO and DC, gathered there as well. My daughters, Katie and Ruth, live about a mile from each other in Lincoln, and I bounced from one house to the other. I now have five great-grandchildren who were also there. I shared a photograph of Katie (my eldest daughter) and me, and my two eldest great-grandchildren, Lida and Uma, both from CO. One night we gathered for a family birthday, and there were 17 of us! With all the discouraging things in the world, it is great to have new lives getting underway. They even gave us some entertainment. I live by myself with my wonderful black and white cat, Oreo. I also have a number of communities in my life, both at my church and in Stow, MA, where I have lived since 1964! I hope you have children, grandchildren, even greatgrandchildren, and various communities in your lives. Blessings!”

1948

Betsy Boyd writes, “I will take an idea from Nancy Hamilton Shepherd ’46. I am so often struck by what a wonderful school Potomac was and seems to continue to be today. I’m sure scouting helped, from learning how to bathe a baby (a lovely mother allowed me to do that) to taking children out for a walk from St. Anna’s orphanage on Saturdays to camping adventures—a very wellrounded experience. I was terrified of Miss Preston as a student but greatly admired her advice as a new teacher. We received a good education in a sunny building where we ran up and down the fire escapes to go to recess; California Street was quite wonderful. Many of us are now in retirement communities. I occasionally hear from Ann Wigglesworth Clemmitt in NH;

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’46

’48

Audrey Hadow Michie ’46’s daughters at the Villa Bellosguardo in Florence, Italy

’46

Anne Clark Diller ’48 with her husband in Osaka, Japan, in April, 2025

1952

Sue Hawes shares, “I am enjoying dancing at Arthur Murray Dance Studio.”

Nancy Hamilton Shepherd ’46 having tea on the porch with her daughter, Katie, and her granddaughters, Lida and Uma

Anne Clark Diller in OR, who still travels to HI; Pauline Smith Willis in CT; Peggy Wilson Morton in VA; and Alison Norton Montgomery in ME. I moved from Manhattan to PA. Anne Clark Diller writes, “Fortunately, I am still in great health at the age of 92. I live in a retirement community in OR and manage to stay active and busy. My husband and I travel as much as possible and will be joining my son for Christmas in Morocco this year. I have three greatgrandchildren. How time flies! I would love to hear from my classmates!”

1951

75TH REUNION Calling All Revelers: All classes who have celebrated their 50th Reunion Plus! Mark your calendars for your 75th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

1954

Tina Knox Radigan elizabethradigan3@gmail.com

Class of 1954: If you’d like to help gather notes, Tina Knox Radigan would love a hand. Drop her a line or reach out to alumni@potomacschool.org, and let’s keep the stories flowing! Tina Knox Radigan shares, “I had a bad reaction to some medication and fainted in my bedroom and was unable to get up. I laid there for four days before I was found. Consequently, I was severely dehydrated and ended up spending two weeks in the hospital. That was last March, and I am doing much better, but getting around with a walker and lots of PT. Strangely, since this happened, my back pain has gone away! I hope you all are doing well. I only heard from two of you, and I worry about the ones that I didn’t hear from.” Sandy Robinson Righter shares, “My husband, Jim, and I are now living in a retirement community in Lexington, MA, while still maintaining our Boston life and good health. I’ve recently seen

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1956

70TH REUNION Calling All Revelers: All classes who have celebrated their 50th Reunion Plus! Mark your calendars for your 70th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

1958

Sue Hawes ’52 and her dance partner at Arthur Murray Dance Studio

Ann Bradley Vehslage shares, “I took my little immediate family–we were seven in all–on a one-week Lindblad cruise to Alaska recently, and we had a ball: my son Ramsay, my son, Ramsay; my daughter, Murray, and her husband, Trent; and their three fine teenage children. One highlight was the Polar Plunge, wherein five of our seven (not I) jumped ever so briefly into glacial water and then got ever so quickly out again. Chilling, to say the least, and fun to watch. I have been a widow since 2015 and am living just outside Princeton, NJ, in an over-55 community, which works very well for me. I send my fondest wishes to our class.”

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I loved this book and couldn’t put it down. History and the complexity of human relationships unfold with uncommon grace. —Barbara Lazear Ascher, winner, most recently, of Pushcart’s Editors Book Award for Ghosting: A Widow’s Voyage Out.

A beautifully researched story... The author views historic events through this very personal lens in a way that brings Barbara’s and Kent’s compelling stories vividly to life for the reader... —Elizabeth Winthrop Alsop, author of Daughter of Spies: Wartime Secrets, Family Lies.

What a wonderful book! The description of the humiliating retreat through Dunkirk is the best I have ever read... —Roy V. Martin, Master Mariner and author of Ebb and Flow: evacuations and landings by merchant ships in World War Two, Suffolk Golding Mission: A Considerable Service, and other books.

“...an intimate, harrowing, and vivid portrait of two young people engulfed by a world war...” —Evan Thomas, author of two New York Times best-selling books, including Road to Surrender.

barbara kent lawrence

: 1933–1946

Barbara Kent Lawrence

1955

In January of 1939 when Barbara Greene, a beautiful young British actress, met Joe Kennedy, Jr., son of the American Ambassador, she could not have expected that their relationship would lead to her emigrating to the United States and learning to pilot a plane. Neither could her brother, Kent, have foreseen his bitter retreat from Dunkirk when he left England in January 1940 to fight in France, or his subsequent service on the frontlines in Cornwall, North Africa, Sicily, and Burma. In this intensively researched story of their war, we also hear the stories of other ordinary people who survived extraordinary circumstances. Richly illustrated with photographs and documents, Both Sides of the Pond, My Family’s War is a captivating book.

Both Sides of the Pond

Didette Van Slyck, and I send my best to all my classmates.” Lalitte Carusi Smith reports, “I am now living in a retirement community on the north fork of Long Island called Peconic Landing. It is an hour’s drive to my house in East Hampton, where I spend a good amount of time in the summer. My children and grandchildren are mostly in New York City, which is only two hours away, and they come out to Long Island to visit often. Sadly, my sister, Ceci Carusi Pose ’49, who was a good friend and classmate of Janet Knox Sturtevant ’49 (Tina Knox Radigan’s sister), died a few months ago at her home in France.”

Barbara Kent Lawrence writes, “Finally, my ninth book has been published. I began the research for Both Sides of the Pond, My Family’s War: 1933-1946 in 2007 when I found the photograph of my mother and uncle that now graces the cover. I wondered who they were before I was born, but both died young and well before I cared about the mysteries hidden in family stories. Now I know my family much better than I did, and I am astounded by what I learned. Both Sides of the both sides Pond, My Family’s War: of the pond my family’s war 1933–1946 was released in September and is available on Amazon and through bookstores, particularly if you ask for it! Thank you.”

1960

Stephanie deSibour stephaniedesibour@gmail.com Connie Casey notes, “A great pleasure this past summer: celebrating Rebekah McCandlish Burckmyer’s birthday with Adelaide (Lolly) MacMurrayCooper. I note that both Becky and Lolly were born a bit before me (but who’s counting?). And yet, despite my comparative youth, when I enter a crowded New York City subway car, a dozen or so people get up to offer me a seat. It’s the white hair (or perhaps they all somehow have access to my bone density tests). Looking back at Potomac from this advanced age, I am hugely grateful for what stays with me from the teaching of Mr. Langstaff and of Mrs. Rose, though

I wish we’d had more science. A year of physics, followed by a year of chemistry. Then a year of biology as we entered adolescence. God bless Mr. Morton for what science we did have. He taught by direct observation of weather, animals, insects, and plants. That stays with us.” Laura Fisher Chandler shares, “Remembering Potomac kindergarten in DC and first grade at the new school, way, WAY out in the beautiful countryside! We wore sturdy brown oxfords and skirts. Learned to duck and cover, plus the drill where we got on the buses was scary. Survived the primitive jungle gym. Had room to run and to play horses, while a real horse grazed in the next field over. We were privileged to learn about ecology before it was cool. And ah, the music–the songs I remember and sometimes sing. Don’t you? I’m still in Saco, ME, with the man I’ve loved since 1976. We ramble in ME and NH and especially enjoy driving the Kancamagus and Maine State Route 113 (when it’s open). I’m doing my best to appreciate what each new day brings to my life. I’m also wondering when a storm will make new beachfront property in Saco as it demolishes another house or two! Take good care of yourselves, classmates!” Stephanie deSibour thanks all those who sent in news, writing, “I am still in Washington, DC, soldiering through the chaos, with a number of restorative stays in Dorset, VT. In September 2025, I went on yet another hiking trip, this time to Finland. There have been a good number, but never enough, visits with grandchildren, ages 7–14, and their parents, in DC, VT, CT, and upstate NY.” Adelaide (Lolly) MacMurray-Cooper writes, “David and I continue to be spoiled rotten by our continuing care retirement community, in Lexington, MA, with good meals, good care, good concerts and lectures, and most importantly, an amazing array of interesting people. Whenever we feel the need to recover from all the activity, we drive two hours and collapse in our house in NH. It is there, of course, that our kids and grandkids gather for holidays and summer weeks. The combination of the two settings is a great plus, and we feel very lucky. I continue to write poetry with one group, and memoirs with another. We

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Class Notes ’60

Adelaide (Lolly) MacMurray-Cooper ’60 and her husband, Dave

don’t travel quite as much or carry around heavy cameras, but we did hang a joint show of our photographs last fall that was very rewarding. And I gave a lecture in the winter on a remarkable early photographer, Julia Margaret Cameron, who, in the 1860s in England, turned her hen house into a studio, her coal cellar into a darkroom, and then proceeded to invent the art of portrait photography. Such a fun story! If anyone’s interested, I’m happy to send a link. Great photos! I’m trying to be active politically and out there in the community, but it’s not as easy as it used to be. I loved hospice work and then prison visiting, but it’s hard to drive too far for volunteering, especially at night. It’s too easy at this stage to curl up on the sofa and read. Anyway, I think we should prepare to paint the town red at our next reunion. We need each other!” Deborah Shapley Cortesi reports, “I am in good health and engaged in several projects. Though unpaid, in effect, they continue my full-time working career and require new skills. My husband, Roger, died in July 2020, due to decline, not illness. As such, we were spared the agony of sickness and death that hits many people. My heart goes out to those who are widows and survivors among my school friends. In our case, the seven grandchildren seem fine. Three are in their first jobs! One is in college, and the three youngest are in high school.

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I continue to work with the nonprofit Restore Mass Ave, which I started with neighbors and embassies in 2006. Our mission is to regrow the canopy of mature trees along two miles of Embassy Row. A special moment came in 2019 when the ambassador of Colombia hosted a benefit for RMA at his official residence at 1520 Twentieth Street NW. We invited Stephanie deSibour and her husband, Mark Miller, especially because Stephy’s grandfather, Jules Henri deSibour, designed this magnificent 1906 mansion. My other occupation, since 2020, has been to explain the legacy of my grandfather, Harlow Shapley. When I realized nearly everyone who knew him was gone and no biography had yet been written about this giant of 20th-century science, I started the Harlow Shapley Project (https://harlowshapley.org). This online hub contains, among other interesting information, my grandfather’s complete bibliography. I’ve participated in classical music for years, including piano lessons. You may remember I played the cello in the five-member Potomac School Orchestra. Do you recall the production of Noye’s Fludde in ninth grade? I will never forget being one of two cellos in the orchestra (the other cellist was Lisa Karrick Lauria’s mother). The cellos were seated right by the kettledrums, and boy, we played up a storm! Benjamin Britten’s opera debuted in England in 1958. The Potomac School production may have been its first in the U.S.!” Eve Auchincloss Lilley shares, “All is fine here in DC. I had that significant birthday, with all of my rather large family gathering. It was a blast—full of hats, horns, balloons, and plenty of good cheer. It’s hard to believe so much time has slid by so quickly. Fortunately, I stay connected to Potomac, as I see Stephanie deSibour quite a lot. I have so much to be grateful for, four great kids/spouses, 10 grandchildren, and plenty of birthdays! Look forward to our next reunion!” Annie Rickert Shields reports, “Not much news other than a fractured hip after being run over by a small herd of horses, and two surgeries for the repair. Staying in bed for now.” Editor’s note from Stephanie deSibour: “I expect she will be up and riding again before too long. Meanwhile, she is a fierce competitor playing online Scrabble against me.”

Jay Whitehead shares, “I ventured from St. Albans School to Yale to George Washington University to UNC at Chapel Hill with a PhD in biology and research on South American primates. A second marriage to Dr. Jean Cook resulted in a wonderful family. We have a son working in family counseling and a daughter now in residency in OB-GYN in St. Petersburg. Travels all over South America, Europe, Kenya, and Sri Lanka have provided a broad perspective on the human condition. And now we sing in church, work with Planned Parenthood, and direct the Florida Free Speech Forum in attempts to right the course of recent events.” Belinda Winslow passed away recently at her primary residence in Chile, surrounded by her children and grandchildren, as well as her very close friend, our classmate Caroline Winslow Von Schrader. Belinda spent a good amount of time in Washington, DC, over the past number of years and kept up with her nearby Potomac School friends, including Daphne vom Baur. Louisa Parker Young writes, “This summer in NY was pretty much defined by heat and humidity. Finally, hints of fall and relief. I had a special week in St. Bart’s in early June and found it has more of a European vibe than other Caribbean islands. A lovely interlude. No other travel. Instead, I’ve enjoyed time with my four-year-old grandson and new granddaughter born in April. Another granddaughter, now 12, was at camp. I loved writing to her there, as she was a captive audience for my musings. I’m glad to be regularly in touch with Stephanie deSibour. I can only imagine life in her beloved city right now. These days, I’ve been known to shamelessly tune in to a Hallmark movie to escape the reality of current events. Hi to all our friends!”

1961

65TH REUNION Calling All Revelers: All classes who have celebrated their 50th Reunion Plus! Mark your calendars for your 65th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

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Emma Bragdon shares, “Integrative Mental Health University, which I founded in 2013, has had 12 successful years offering mostly online education. I’m excited about creating a new course on helping 16- to 24-year-olds manage extreme states, psychological as well as those arising from expanded consciousness. I love my work, and I love my grandchildren. Sam will turn 21 soon, and Rowan is almost 18.” Alexandra Villard de Borchgrave writes, “I’m happy to share that the Arnaud and Alexandra de Borchgrave Papers are now catalogued at Georgetown University’s Lauinger Library’s Booth Family Center for Special Collections (https://findingaids.library.georgetown. edu/repositories/15/resources/12447). They comprise our personal and professional papers, including my photographs of world leaders and notes by my late husband, Arnaud, from his reporting around the world (especially his work in the Middle East).”

1962

Deborah Johansen Harris debjohansenharris@gmail.com

Elizabeth Davison had her wall art/ quilts in two exhibitions this fall: one at The Mansion at Strathmore in Rockville, MD, and another at Glen Echo Park in Glen Echo, MD. Deborah (Deb) Johansen Harris had a great reunion in London with Antonia Caccia and Lexi Roper Douglas and visited her six English cousins in and around London. A high point was attending a John Singer Sargent exhibit, Heiress: American Portraits, which featured Deb’s great-aunt, Dame Jessie Phipps, painted by her cousin, J.S. Sargent. Before that, Deb attended her 60th Emma Willard School reunion. In September, she spent a week in her beloved Truro on Cape Cod and finished her trip with an overnight visit with Eldie Acheson and her spouse, Emily Hewitt. Additionally, late last August, Deb hosted five other classmates in a mini Zoom reunion. It was the first time in ages that Rachel Kitzinger was able to join. Mariana (Mimi) Russell, Carol Mattusch, Elizabeth Davison, and Antonia Caccia also Zoomed in.

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’61 ’62

Alexandra de Borchgrave ’61 and her late husband, Arnaud, covering the 1973 October Yom Kippur War

Elizabeth Burke Dale ’62 with her Siamese Ragdoll

’62

Lexi Roper Douglas ’62, Deborah (Deb) Johansen Harris ’62, and Antonia Caccia ’62 in London last June

Antonia was in the far northern reaches of Scotland, not far from the Orkney Islands, where she was touring with friends, and she showed us Zoomers the landscape. Talk about a windswept hinterland! Elizabeth Burke Dale cuddled a Siamese Ragdoll kitten, a victim of last year’s Florida hurricane, that her granddaughter persuaded her to adopt. She advised, “At our age, don’t adopt a kitten. It takes way too much energy, but we enjoy him. Looking forward to seeing family at Thanksgiving.” Rachel joined from the west coast of Ireland, where she and her partner, who is Irish, have a house in beautiful Connemara. They spend three months a year there and are otherwise at home in Poughkeepsie, NY, where she’s active in local politics. Rachel also volunteers in a program to assist immigrants in her town. In addition, she loves reading, playing the piano, and visiting with her children and grandchildren. Eleanor (Bobbie) Lanahan was sorry she missed the Zoom, sharing, “I was in Los Angeles with my daughter, her husband, and their newborn baby. I assume I missed a lot of news, and I do hope to join the next one. I’d forgotten how little sleep new parents get and how demanding it is to feed an infant eight times a day.

Also, my little granddaughter, Frankie, was too vulnerable to go into crowded public places. One day, we drove around the burned-out parts of Altadena, close to my daughter’s home, and witnessed empty lots and random surviving gateways and bungalows. My hope is on the youth to rebuild everything.” Louise McVickar Marx sadly reports, “We said goodbye to my daughter, Lizzie, who passed away last August after a courageous battle with colon cancer. Lizzie would want us to know she had her colonoscopy at age 50, which was recommended at the time. Age 45 is now recommended, but we are still not sure if that is soon enough.” Carol Mattusch presented a paper at the Friends of Herculaneum Society conference this fall. Carol, who is chair of the American Friends of Herculaneum Society, said that the focus was on the rolls of papyrus that have been dug up and are now being read using a thermoluminescence technique pioneered at the University of Kentucky. Rosemary Merriam reported that she enjoys her new home in Santa Fe, NM, especially the cultural scene. Nina Nitze Moriarty shares, “Marshall and I had a lovely time in Burgundy this past summer. We met some of our children and

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Class Notes ’63

’62

Dede Fryer Hacking ’63’s family, July 2025, in Niagara-on-the-Lake (left to right): Jack, JB, Drilona, Naseem, Leila, Dede, Alia John Wathen ’62’s (fifth from the right) “clan,” or most of it, assembled, including his sister, Vee Wathen Sheehan ’59, next to him

grandchildren in Dijon for a few days and then [took] a barge trip for a week on the Burgundian Canal with five of our children and the youngest grandchild in each of those families.” Marianna (Mimi) Russell taught a course on the Bloomsbury Group as well as classes on Shakespeare’s six history plays at an assisted living residence. When asked how her garden, which is huge, was doing this past summer, she quipped, “I keep beating it back, but the garden keeps winning.” John Wathen retired last August from the Environmental Protection Agency after more than 20 years of service there. At that time, his paper ‘Patterns of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance occurrence in fish in the 2018–2019 U.S. EPA National Rivers and Streams Assessment,’ which he had worked on for two years, was published in the Science of the Total Environment Journal. He said, “I also continue to have professional interest in my field of study, but not in federal employment.” In the course of his retirement, he has moved to Newtown, PA. John also reported that he enjoys visiting his five children and his grandchildren.

1963

Marisa Knowlton Domeyko mdomeyko@comcast.net Anne Williams annegw200@yahoo.com

Marisa Knowlton Domeyko shares, “Andres and I have moved temporarily to

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Santiago, Chile! We sold our house in Alexandria, VA, in July and arrived in Santiago on August 16. We plan to be here until our names come up on the waitlist for an apartment at Goodwin House, a retirement community in Alexandria. We figure it’ll be about six months or so. I’m hoping the U.S. will be all straightened out by then!” Dede Fryer Hacking reports, “In November, my eldest son, Jack, married (for the first time) Drilona Brecani. They are happily settled in a co-op on the Upper East Side. When they are not working, they manage wonderful trips, most recently, to Belgium for the Grand Prix. Also, last fall, I bought and renovated a condominium bungalow in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada. In the spring, Jack came up from NYC to help with the move, and at Easter, JB, my younger son, came over from Rabat to move me to the house. I am now happily settled in charming Old Town. I also traded in the practical Subaru Crosstrek for a John Cooper Works Mini, which is totally impractical but lots of fun and uber fuel efficient. Life is good: volunteer work, bridge, and mahjongg. If you are planning a trip north of the 49th, I’d love to see you on the shore of Lake Ontario.” Diane Kefauver writes, “2025 has been a difficult year, first with the death of my husband of 45 years, and then with the clearing out and repairing of our home of 45 years. I’ve been lucky to have had the help of my sister, Gail Kefauver ’65, and sons, Ben and Davey, as well as the support of many close friends. Also lucky to have seen Leni Chapman Preston,

’63

Amanda Kreglow ’63 had a sweet visit with Marisa Knowlton Domeyko ’63 and Diane Kefauver ’63 (from left to right)

Maria Franco Grandquist, Marisa Knowlton Domeyko, Wiley Jarman Grosvenor, Wendy Millar Phillips, and Amanda Kreglow during the year. The yin and yang of life. Leni Chapman Preston reports, “This year has seen us move back to Washington, DC. My husband, Edmund Preston ’56, and I are now very happily settled in the new senior residence in The Fitzgerald of Palisades. As some know, downsizing is not for wimps, but well worth the effort. We would love to welcome Potomac friends at any time. Unfortunately, our grandsons, who are thankfully both employed, could not join us on a recent vacation. We did have our daughters Erica and Caroline Preston ’98 and Caroline’s daughter, Sophie, along. They live in Brooklyn, and Caroline is now the managing editor of The Hechinger Report and writes an excellent newsletter on the intersection of education and climate change.” Chris Ripman reports, “At 78, I am still very active running my small business in architectural lighting. This year, a project we have been working on for nine years, the Groton Hill Music Center, won five awards from the

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Illuminating Engineering Society, of which I am a long-standing member. That’s a company record! On the personal front, my sons, Seth and Ben, continue to evolve. Seth is in Portland, OR, and is finishing his bachelor’s degree in computer science after a long hiatus, on his own initiative. He and his wife, Kendall, joined us in Belize last year. My longtime sweetheart, Elizabeth Locke, whom I met in Revels in Boston, traveled with us as well. Ben is now a senior machine operator for the Stanford Linear Accelerator. Their presence in our lives is a real blessing, even though

’63

Leni Chapman Preston ’63 (far right) with her husband, Edmund Preston ’56, and their family

’63

their choice of coast to live on is a bit challenging! Best wishes to all. If you (or your company) find yourselves contemplating a project in which excellent lighting design would really make a difference, please be in touch. You won’t regret it! Zan Smith Thomas notes, “We have twin granddaughters who have just started college. One is at Lehigh in PA, and the other at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. A long way from their childhood home of San Francisco. We still have a 13-year-old grandson in San Francisco. Last fall, we enjoyed a prolonged trip to South Africa, Turkey, southern Spain, Gibraltar, and Portugal. I almost bought property in Portugal, but Frank wasn’t on board. He is still practicing law. Fortunately, long vacations are doable, so this fall, we went to Jordan and Egypt. I’m still yearning for Portugal. We still have horses, chickens, cats, and one lone 16-year-old dog. I don’t ride much, but my daughter and the twins do when they are here for the summer. I still sing and am looking forward to Mozart’s Requiem in the spring. I might also be looking forward to either a knee or hip replacement. Our heated pool stays open well into the fall and is a wonderful respite. I plan to be at The Garden Club of America NAL meeting in the spring, where you regain hope for our Earth and planet, if the Capitol is still standing! Life goes on at our beautiful farm, and we’d be glad to have visitors any time. Our labyrinth is a peaceful walk, and I’m always glad to have company.

’64

Sending deep condolences and love to Wendy Neel Ellsworth on the loss of her extremely talented husband.” Anne Williams shares, “The usual summer fun of visits from siblings, cousins, and my grandchildren, ages 2, 4, and 11—plus tough negotiations with the bunnies about who gets first pick in my garden. I am still active in my church, play mahjongg, have stepped down from the board of a family land company, and have signed up for some adult education classes in the fall.”

1964 Alison Peake alidee1@aol.com

Guru Sangat Kaur Truffy Angleton Khalsa reports, “I’ve been really enjoying our class Zoom get-togethers the first Thursday of each month, although I sometimes forget to attend. If you’re interested, please contact Jennifer Owen Murphy. Since 1992, I’ve been dealing with ‘health opportunities.’ I’m learning to accept limitations while working to get healthier. I spend time practicing and teaching yoga and meditation, and making art. I’m part of the Great Falls Studios, and we offered our 22nd annual studio tour last October 18–19. I’m happily married with two children and four grands, one in college. I am very grateful for life, family, and friends, although it seems that some friends are leaving the planet all too frequently.” Catherine Satterlee’s work in ceramics was recently featured in an article in Home and Design: www. homeanddesign.com/2025/02/27/ return-to-form/.

1965

Sallie Ayers Barker s2barkers@yahoo.com

Chris Ripman ’63’s nine-year-long project, the Groton Hill Music Center, recently won five Illuminating Engineering Society awards

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Catherine Satterlee ’64’s work in ceramics was recently featured in an article in Home and Design

Thank you to Emily Train Rowan and Lindsey Holdsworth Aquino for bringing your classmates together for Reunion 2025!

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Class Notes Betty Lindsten Mulrey sends greetings from NH. She continues to work with students in early childhood, elementary, middle, and high school at a local school that connects students with nature and outdoor experiences. She also continues to serve as a board member of a local farm school with programs and after-school opportunities that connect children, families, and community to the earth and to one another through farm-and-forest programs. Her daughter Katie is an astrophysics professor, her daughter Clare is a science teacher, and her son, Jack, is a software engineer. Betty says, “I continue to be a member of the Boston Revels, which carries on the great legacy of Jack Langstaff! And I look forward to our next class reunion. Our Potomac days were/are so special! Best wishes to everyone!” Emily Train Rowan writes, “I have a new, three-month-old grandson, bringing the total number of grandchildren up to four. They are a big part of my life. My oldest granddaughter is now in first grade at Potomac, giving me a new connection to the school, which I greatly enjoy.” Christopher Janney shares, “Sixty years and counting! In all my experiences with learning and teaching, Potomac remains in the top three. Here’s a good anecdote to prove it. In the fall of 1977, I was a grad student at MIT in art and design. Walking down Mass. Ave. one day, I recognized a voice from the past. I said, ‘Hey, Jack Langstaff!’ After a big smile, a hug, and some catching up, Jack asked me to create something for his upcoming production of the Christmas Revels. Needless to say, it was a joy to work with him. I remembered then, as I had many times before, how much he was a reason I chose a career in music and design. Also, at that time, my wife, Terrell, was expecting our first child. On the evening of the seventh performance, I was in the theater preparing for the show when I received THE notice from my wife. I went to Jack and said I had a higher calling for that evening, so my assistants would handle my parts. The next evening, when I went into the theater, one of the performers congratulated me on my new son. He then told me that before the prior night’s show, Jack had come out on

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’65

’66 Christopher Janney ’65: “Soundstair: ROMEInstallation, Light/Sound/Interactive”

stage and told the audience that I couldn’t be there due to a ‘very special condition.’ Jack then said, ‘So when we get to the part where everyone sings ‘Dona Nobis Pacem,’ sing it out strong for Christopher’s newborn son!’ As if that wasn’t enough, here’s the kicker. One afternoon in 1985, Jack called and said he had some friends in town he wanted me to meet. About an hour later, Jack pulled up with the record producer Sir George Martin and his wife, Lady Judy! In a flash, I remembered that when we were at Potomac in 1964, Jack had to go to London for two weeks to record an album of Celtic music with his producer. All these years later, Sir George was still his producer, and Jack was still just being Jack, spreading his love and influence to all that he could!”

1966

60TH REUNION Calling All Revelers: All classes who have celebrated their 50th Reunion Plus! Mark your calendars for your 60th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

Ann Dickerson Pillion writes, “Unfortunately, I have sad news to report. On July 26, my sister, Jane Dickerson ’68, suffered a cardiac infarction from which she did not survive. I have found some comfort in the fact that it happened quickly and that she had just spent some wonderful, happy time with several of her family members. I hope that those of you who were fortunate enough to have

Tilly Koehler Rothwell ’66 and her husband, John, and Susie Armstrong Hamberger ’66 and her husband, Ed, visiting Prout’s Point, ME, in July 2025

known and loved her will be comforted by many happy memories.” Tilly Koehler Rothwell shares, “My husband, John, [and I] and Susie Armstrong Hamberger ’66 and her husband, Ed, visited Prout’s Point, ME, in July 2025. They’ve been friends since the first day of fourth grade in Mrs. MacDonald’s class in 1960!”

1967

Tom Macy potomac67@gmail.com

Caroline Casey writes, “I completed a rewarding summer of teaching several courses, including Trickster Saves Democracy: In Times of Danger, Liberating Trickster Comes Alive in Us and Nature, and AnarchoEntheoAstroAnimism. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of my radio program, The Visionary Activist Show, which you can find wherever you get your podcasts.” John Wolf shares, “Greetings from the outer reaches of Cape Cod! The end of summer 2025 finds me about halfway through my second three-year term on the Wellfleet, MA, Selectboard and in my second year as chair, dealing with the challenges of affordable housing, serious environmental concerns regarding wastewater issues at our sandspit home, and the unique drama seemingly found only in our ‘drinking town with a fishing problem.’

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This summer has proven to be my most productive yet for my sailing excursion business, Postcard Harbor Tours, and has seen a welcome increase in musical activity. In the spring, I was hired by our school district to be one of several professional performers in Nauset High School’s annual spring musical, Cole Porter’s Anything Goes. Since then, gigs have been relatively plentiful. Closer to home and to my heart, my grandson, Jacob Leo Wolf, now almost three years old, was joined on March 31 by a brother, Cameron Avery Wolf. Please get in touch if you visit the Cape!”

1968

Kim Holdsworth kimsworth4@gmail.com

Ceci Addison Clark writes, “Hello classmates! It was a great disappointment to miss the 50th and have a chance to see and hear all about your interesting lives over the past decades. I did, this year, make it to my 50th college reunion at Brown—another landmark. My life has been mostly in education: teaching, alumni work for schools, and finally, international teacher recruitment. I have three great children and four grandchildren, ranging in age from nine months to four years old. My husband, Hamilton, and I have been married 48 years. The longevity and love constantly amaze me. We live between MA and SC these days to enjoy the weather and friends in both places and to stay active. Recently, we were in France, biking and hiking, and feeling lucky that we have the health and energy to do so. We are (mostly) retired and enjoying the days together, whether we are busy or not. Ham is an ideal companion for adventure and embracing the wide world. We lived out of the U.S. during the last decade in international schools in Beirut, São Paulo, and Dubai, and relish the education about the world that it provided us. Finally, let me say that a very great joy these days is reconnecting with Laura Wainwright and Kim Holdsworth on Martha’s Vineyard and having the time to savor the connection and share our thoughts and stories. We could still be walking to the old Gum Tree Field together as chatty

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’67

’67 John Wolf ’67 and his three-year-old grandson, Jacob, at Jacob’s first trombone lesson!

’68

Angus McIvor ’67 with Johnny Devlin and his carved “Angus Bull” in Alice Springs, Australia

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Jeremy Gordon ’68 with his wife, Susan, in December 2024

Lucy Jewett Lowenthal ’68 sailing off Deer Isle, ME, with Kate Holmes Caldwell ’68 at the helm

Middle Schoolers—it’s a remarkably easy friendship that I cherish. Wishing each of you all good things, and perhaps the next reunion will bring us together again.” Jeremy Gordon reports, “My wife, Susan, and I returned home in May after evacuating our home during the terrible wildfire that ravaged the Pacific Palisades on my birthday (!), January 7. We stayed with a friend in nearby Mar Vista, CA, who was a godsend, giving us the moral support that we needed. I continue to be a caregiver for Susan, who has primary progressive aphasia, which has been a challenge to bear. But there is also good news! We are expecting our first grandchild this December, by our younger son, Benjamin, and his wife, Alexandra! So life goes on! Lovely to be in touch with many of my classmates from Potomac!” Gail Killefer, who, as a Superior Court judge in Los Angeles County, CA, has the title of Honorable, writes, “Jeff and I are still in Los Angeles, still pretty healthy (knock on wood!), still working hard, and looking forward to a new chapter (without a work schedule!) in 2026. My best to you all!”

Lucy Jewett Lowenthal shares, “My husband, Peter Lowenthal, and I had a wonderful time in Stonington, ME, in August. We went sailing off Deer Isle with Kate Holmes Caldwell and her husband, Harry. Later in the week, they saw Sarah Holmes ’74 and Brock Holmes ’67, among other family members, for a tour of Nervous Nellie’s Jams and Jellies’ outdoor sculpture museum.”

1969

Peter Bross writes, “I am retiring from the FDA after 26 years as a physician regulating cancer therapies, specifically cell and gene therapies. I plan to split time between Cape Cod, MA, Washington, DC, and Delray Beach, FL.” Christopher King shares, “On October 19, 2024, while on campus for the alumni weekend, I learned that the old Middle School building was soon to be razed. Upon request, I was ushered in for a farewell visit. Soon after, I entered the room where Miss Burns once taught us, and a vivid memory flashed

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Class Notes through my mind. One morning in 1964, all four walls were newly covered with thousands of black dots arrayed in rows on white sheets of paper. She informed us we were surrounded by a visual representation of the number one million. Next, I entered the room where Mr. Olds kept us fifth graders on our toes. I remembered the following: all of us seated in clusters with abundant scissors, colored paper, cardboard, and string on the desks, assembling our Oldsmobiles for the Potomac School Bazaar. Finally, I entered the room where the soft-spoken Mr. Leith once guided us sixth graders. I recalled us sitting quietly at our desks, carefully wielding ink pens while mastering our cursive letter shapes. Labor Omnia Vincet!”

’70 ’69

Dana Strong ’70, Garrett Jewett ’70, and Sarah Bucknell Treco ’70 catching up over lunch

’70

Peter Bross ’69 boating of Wellfleet, MA

’69

1970

Jane McAllister mcallister.jane@outlook.com

Krikky Rose Jaffe shares, “I recently traveled to Cape May with my two daughters and their two daughters, Isabel (15 months) and Stella (five). Both of them loved the water, especially the little one, who had no fear at all. I’m going part time for the first time in 49 years— seems like a good first step to retirement, which has me a little freaked out. I hope to see my former classmates soon.” Jane McAllister reports, “In September, I traveled from Vienna to Dublin. In May, Steve and I had the great pleasure of having dinner at the home of Don and Nimmie Addison Huber, together with Winkie Hamilton Bierbower and her husband, Bill. What a fabulous meal, topped off with Kvæfjordkake, also known as the world’s best cake. That lady can cook! Our spouses were patient while Nimmie, Winkie, and I had a million laughs traveling deep down memory lane. Looking forward to a repeat!” In August, Garrett Jewett traveled in Italy with his family. Sarah Bucknell Treco writes, “Last April, Dana Strong, Garrett Jewett, and I enjoyed lunch together at the dedication of the new Alice Dodge Wallace Performing Arts Center at Emma Willard. Fun to have some time together to catch up!”

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Krikky Rose Jaffe ’70’s two granddaughters, Isabel (15 months) and Stella (5)

Chris King ’69 visiting Loch Coruisk on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, July 1, 2025

1971

55TH REUNION Calling All Revelers: All classes who have celebrated their 50th Reunion Plus! Mark your calendars for your 55th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

1972

Charles Sprunt shares, “Potomac has grown in just the right way, with a truly holistic approach, nurturing the whole student through academics, social development, athletics, and more. The school is doing a fabulous job.”

1973

John Chester jchestervt@gmail.com

Keith Ausbrook noticed, in emails from the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, that Ellen McLaughlin was featured this summer. Ellen writes, “I had the great pleasure of returning to the Festival, where I played Lear in 2023, to perform as Prospera in The Tempest (I wore a dress this time) and John of Gaunt in Richard II (definitely not in a dress). Between those two roles, I spoke some of the most sublime language ever written for the stage, and I will always be grateful. It was a dream summer. Now, feeling like I was shot from a cannon, I’m home preparing for my 31st year of teaching playwriting at Barnard College in New York. I was also in an ‘original practices’ production of Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus, with minimal rehearsal, limited props, and, in my case, a fabulous set of black wings.” Ellen also shared a lovely Potomac connection: Wing Sommers Keith (known as Anne in school) came to see her in a two-person play, Pen Pals, about two girls whose correspondence begins at 14 and continues through their lives. It was especially meaningful because Wing and Ellen had also been longtime pen pals when Wing’s family moved to Switzerland—a sweet mini-reunion.

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Bill Calfee shares, “Will I ever retire? Not on the horizon. I started writing code in 1968 with Mr. Johnson, and I am still. Of course, now I use some of the amazing tools that allow me to do so much more, and my thinking started with the terminal in the basement of the science building. My focus has been on keeping money in local communities everywhere. My company, Myti, has been looking at e-commerce and delivery through the lens of empowering independent businesses. Our work is more important now than ever. On the home front, we moved to Hinesburg, VT, where we have dark skies and more birds. I can mountain bike out of the door, which I try to do three times per week. Isobel continues to expand her cello and aerial skills and somehow gets her other work done, mostly. Lara continues to study health through the lens of homeopathy. We are all excited for winter and the various snow sports. Our new house is 15 minutes from lots of Nordic skiing. Finally, we traveled to France, where I was a School Year Abroad student 50 years ago.” Chrissie Albert Carnes had a knee replaced recently and spent recovery time waiting for the final pieces to come together for the expansion of her veterinary clinic. John Chester shares, “It’s been an exciting summer, with my son David’s wedding in Portugal. I’ll be taking a break from mountain biking, hockey, and pickleball, as I’m scheduled for two new hips to go along with my two new (well, seven-year-old) knees. As of this writing, Michael Tucker is planning to be in Burlington, VT, with his mom and siblings soon. We have a tentative gettogether planned, and the full report will have to wait until the next issue.” Dorsey Davidge retired from her career job and started a new position at her local nursery school, teaching half days to the 2½- to 3½-year-olds. She’s very excited, finding that being around young children is just the antidote for these tough times. Both of her daughters are in Chicago; Cate is graduating from physician assistant school, and Daisy is the events manager at Hyatt McCormick Center. David Epstein shares, “My mom and the mother of five Potomac graduates, Sally Epstein, died on August 17. She led a vivid, adventurous century-long

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’73 ’73 Bill Calfee ’73 and his granddaughter, Lara, in Rennes, France

Ellen McLaughlin ’73 in a production of Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus

life. Beneath her gracious demeanor and generous spirit churned a fierce and determined energy that drove her ever forward. Sally had an extensive network of family, friends, and compatriots in her numerous and varied interests, all of which had a common denominator: to make the world a better place for all. She was ardent in her belief that women should have control of their own bodies and reproductive schedule in a manner that improved maternal health, the health of children, and the health of families. Sally and her former husband, Lionel Epstein, assembled a world-renowned collection of prints by the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch. She became a scholar of Munch’s life and times and contributed to the public’s understanding that art could be more than decoration, historical record, or religious instruction. It also had value as a vehicle for better self-understanding and empathy.” Carrie Gibson just finished shooting the lead in an independent feature film coming out in 2026, a pickleball caper where the sport nearly destroys a community but ultimately brings it together. She says if anyone comes near Beacon, NY, please say hi and bring your paddle! (Carrie is making the assumption that you are obeying the federal law requiring anyone over 65 to play pickleball.) She was also thrilled to be part of the newly released movie Weapons, which she suggests you check out if you dare. She had a fun, quirky part and worked with Amy Madigan and Benedict Wong. Liza Gookin Hodskins has been busy on stage at Rehoboth Beach, DE’s Clear Space Theatre Company, playing Aunt Eller in its professional production of Oklahoma! to much acclaim. She also won the Arlington Karaoke Idol contest and performed in her Gilbert and Sullivan troupe’s 50th anniversary revue. She and her husband, Steve, have been traveling frequently—to ME, PA,

NY, NJ, VT, and Canada—after the loss of their 15-year-old dog last spring. They went to Madrid in November for the first NFL game in Spain, and Liza continues to exercise her constitutional right to protest in both DC and Rehoboth Beach. Cathie Davis Kaplan has had a tough year. She lost her mother last winter and then was diagnosed with Parkinson’s last spring. On a happier note, she has stayed in touch with Tina Adler. Cathie is a huge football fan of the Washington Commanders and is excited about the season. Nancy White Lippe is a philanthropy advisor, working with individuals and families to develop and implement strategic giving plans and involving the next generations. She works across fields from community gardens to Indigenous women’s programs. Her husband, Paul, is CEO of xMentium, which develops legal/AI tools. Their children live on both coasts and in CO, with one grandchild in MA. Nancy’s brother, Barney White ’68, passed away, and she spends much time with his children and grandchildren, which brings joy. She still loves outdoor adventures including biking, hiking, skiing, and fishing. It sounds like Paolo Petrignani has it all figured out, dividing time between Lausanne, Switzerland, and Tuscany, Italy, with children and grandchildren, and seasonally picking olives. Paolo is working on his second book, on the Story of Beauty, and hopes to publish it next year. Louise Putnam shares, “Having retired last October, I now have the pleasure of not knowing (or caring) what day of the week it is! Along with my longtime partner, Bob, I’m in the midst of moving to Exeter, NH, which will be yet another downsizing opportunity. We also have the happy option to spend half the year in the U.S. Virgin Islands. My three children are thriving, one in Charlottesville, one in Richmond, and one with her Foreign Service husband

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Class Notes ’74

’74

’73 Liza Gookin Hodskin ’73 as Aunt Eller in Oklahoma!

in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. That means a spring 2026 trip to Tajikistan. It’ll certainly be an interesting venture. If you have any friends in Dushanbe, do drop me a line!” Charles Spalding says that everything in Costa Rica is working–the traffic jams, the politics, and even the lazy sloths crossing the roads! He also had a surprise visit from Charlie Chester ’81.

1974

Ann Brown annanna.brown@gmail.com

Andrew Hyde shares, “I have just started as an adjunct, part-time professor of political science at George Washington University, teaching an undergraduate course on U.S. foreign policy. It is great to be back in a learning environment.” Sarah Lejeune says, “I loved our 50th Reunion. The strength and laughter of getting together with our extraordinary classmates sustained me through the flames—real and metaphoric—that followed. Ending my time in DC with a fall-splendor bike ride along the canal with Jamie Engert and Andy Hyde was a fabulous send-off. I finally felt like a female member of the ‘Bike Gang’! Although my house survived the LA fires, it changed our lives. I can see the burn scar from every window. Many friends and colleagues lost their homes, and two of our small Topanga community members lost their lives. We do not have fully repaired roads and manage odd electricity and water issues as the infrastructure is repaired. I no longer feel as though I have a front-row seat to climate change but am in the hot-mess middle of it. I say with gratitude that it has been a wonderful gift of resilience to

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Blake Gardner Cook ’74 enjoying the day hiking in Castine, ME, with Polly Pittman ’74 and Nina Chapin de Rochefort ’74

Jane Day Rich ’74; her daughter, Isabel; and her aunt at Somers Randolph ’71’s studio in Santa Fe, NM

walk daily in the burn scar and see the wilderness revive. I am still working part time, consulting on sea-level rise and alternative transportation, and able to spend most of my time on truly creative work. My adult child has launched, and I am so proud of her advocacy for the unhoused!” Jennifer Moses reports, “We have a new grandson, Shammai Berrechai Green. He arrived in late July and is very handsome. All three of our children are married to very lovely people, so for this, we are eternally grateful. My father, at 96, lives in Georgetown and continues to be a force of nature. Just ask Chris Van Hollen, whom I believe he schmoozes with on a fairly regular basis. I had a new book come out in late September: You’ve Told Me Before. I did an event at Politics and Prose on October 5 and loved seeing classmates who came and greeted me with the ‘Hurrah for Potomac’ song.” Garrett Randolph writes, “Sweet memories of Reunion 2024, especially seeing classmates I hadn’t seen in a long time. Enjoyed singing once the host, John Nassikas, quieted the room and tossed me the imaginary microphone. I could have sung with you guys all night; we still sound good. My life partner, Dara, was awed by us. Her comment was something like, ‘I can’t remember when I’ve been in a group of people as welcoming, engaged, intelligent, and kind.’ I concur. My son, Owen (14), just entered 9th grade and was awarded the scholar-athlete award (again) last year. My daughter, Orianna (20), is crushing life at Wheaton College in MA. Me? I’m counseling, mowing fields at the farm, playing the guitar, and being a dad.” Jane Day Rich writes, “This summer was pretty uneventful for the Rich

family except for two trips. The first was a road trip in June from Boulder, CO, to Taos, NM, with my daughter, Isabel, to visit family and a side trip to Santa Fe, NM, where Isabel, my aunt, and I visited Somers Randolph ’71 in his studio. It was great to see how the raw stone transforms into beautiful, sculpted shapes. The second highlight was dinner with Nina Chapin de Rochefort and her husband, Pierre, in Portland, ME, on our way to Islesboro for a week–we had lots of fun catching up! Nina Bohlen, Sarah Holmes, and I tried to coordinate our schedules to get together, but it wasn’t meant to be. Maybe next summer.” Laura Roosevelt says, “I’m delighted to report that I’ve been seeing, and have plans to see, many of our classmates. I had a wonderful dinner with Stephen Warnke and his wife, Susan, a couple of weeks ago, and I enjoyed a weekend visit with Jonathan Willens and his wife, Julia. I had dinner with Jamie Engert and his wife, Lise, in Montreal, where I traveled with my son, Oliver. In early November, I traveled to LA to see Josephine Kalmus Miller and Sarah Lejeune. I love our class so much!” Errol Train says, “My husband, JC, still works full time, and I have been a Reiki master for about seven years. I work out of my house in a volunteer capacity, providing support for people battling cancer, mostly. All three of our children live and work in NYC. Our twins, Skye and Jake (32), are both married, and we are thrilled to be expecting our first grandchild this winter! Our youngest, Nick (25), is slowly going broke from paying NYC rents but seems to love being there anyway. I am so sad to hear about Barbara Harper, mother of Debbie ’69,

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’75

TRAILS

An Alumna’s Connection to Chicago’s Gilded Age Margaret Evans Cosgrove ’75 and her husband, Jim, boating in Maine

Jeff ’72, and Betsy ’74—she was such a kind and beautiful person.” Patrick Willmott writes, “This is the first time I’ve shared any news, so there’s a bit to cover. After sixth grade at Potomac, I was sent to boarding school in the UK. Think Hogwarts. Then Cambridge (more Hogwarts), then a career first as an electrical engineer, then in IT. On the way, marriage, three kids, emigration to Canada (Never 51!), divorce, relocation to Calgary, then back to the West Coast. I now live with two partners and three dogs in Esquimalt (look it up), and am retired, though I’m being dragged into some free IT work by a local nonprofit yoga studio. I’m now a granddad. I spend a lot of time playing the piano and have forgotten how I ever found the time to work. I’d come over and see you all, but I’m afraid of those nasty men at the border.”

1975

Peggy Griffin Begor pbegor@gmail.com

What an amazing group of Reunion co-chairs. Thank you for your leadership, Lizzie Edgeworth Cantacuzène, Peggy Begor, Elizabeth Leigh, Liza Phillips, Katya Chavchavadze Redpath, Alice McKillop Semler, and Alison Macdonald von Klemperer. Laura Blakeslee shares, “News? I’m a federal employee and still have a job!” Margaret Evans Cosgrove writes that she and husband Jim really enjoy their time on the lake in Maine. She also enjoys driving her ATV and exclaimed, “I LOVE it here in the country in Connecticut!”

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Writer Jennifer Just ’74 has had unique access to some of the country’s major political events. She has served as a delegate at a Democratic National Convention, attended former President Barack Obama’s farewell address, and learned about the tumultuous 1968 convention from her journalist father, the late Ward Just. Yet, the political event that has most captivated her imagination occurred 132 years ago. In 1893, malcontent Patrick Prendergast entered Chicago Mayor Carter Harrison’s home and shot the Democratic leader at point-blank range three times. Forty minutes later, Harrison died. Chicago’s first assassination not only rattled the city but also uncovered a glaring oversight: “There were no rules for replacing a politician who died in office,” Jennifer says. “With no laws on the books, newspaper publishers and politicians tried to get an advantage,” she says. “The following 10 or so days, the future of Chicago hung in the balance. It was one of the wildest elections in Chicago political history, and that is saying a lot.” On November 6, the Chicago City Council elected Jennifer’s greatgreat-grandfather, Republican George Swift, as mayor pro tem. He won by just one vote. The contentious days leading up to Swift’s election are the subject of Jennifer’s manuscript and an online newsletter, Politics and the Press in Gilded Age Chicago, on Substack. Working on the book allows her to explore a family story that has faded with each subsequent generation and also gives her an opportunity to explore a tumultuous era in U.S. history known as the Gilded Age. In the aftermath of the Civil War, up to the turn of the century, the country experienced strong economic growth but stark income inequality, high voter turnout but corrupt politicians, and a thriving newspaper industry tainted by yellow journalism. Many of these forces were at play for Chicago’s election, and Jennifer combs through the Windy City’s five newspapers to learn more. “It’s a really interesting slice of American history,” she says. “The special election shows people in power abusing their power, and newspapers, which should be exposing the abuse of power, engaging in it, too.” While Jennifer does not know when the book will be published, she says working on it feels like a triumph. Her father’s reputation and accomplishments cast a long shadow, and Jennifer was hesitant to write about history because she did not want to be compared to him. Now, she is ready. “To have found writing at this stage of my life and to find it so fulfilling is a dream come true,” Jennifer says. —Marisa Demers

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Class Notes ’75

The cover of Katya Chavchavadze Redpath ’75’s debut album, Time Changes Everything, based on a self-portrait she drew when she was 16

’75

Greg Scott ’75 crossing “helicopter skiing in the Andes in July” off his bucket list

Katya Chavchavadze Redpath writes, “As you know, I’ve been playing music all my life, in all sorts of languages and styles. But it wasn’t until recently that I began writing my own. After spending about six months holed up in the studio, I have just finished recording my first album of original songs! Many thanks go out to my husband, John Redpath, who put up with my absence, and to my producer, Matt Smith, of Six String Ranch in Austin, TX, who put up with my presence. The music is as eclectic as I am. I will be releasing new songs one by one, with my debut album and acoustic EP to follow, later this year. If you’d like to check out my progress and listen to the music, I’ve joined a number of social media platforms, and you can keep up with me there (katyaredpath. com). But my favorite so far is Substack, where I will be posting short essays on my process, on music, and on creativity in general, as well as new music. So I invite you to subscribe to my Substack page! It’s free, and it’s called New Music Chronicles: katyaredpath.substack.com.

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You can also go straight to my welcome story, ‘Foraging for Music.’ With warmest and happiest wishes to all!” Greg Scott has a bunch going on in his life. He reports, “I am semiretired, sold my house outside Orlean, VA, and am trying to decide on my next steps. I visited family in Australia in the spring, where I climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge and visited New Zealand while I was in the neighborhood. I escaped the worst of DC’s summer in Santiago, Chile, where I fulfilled a bucket-list item by helicopter skiing in the Andes in July.” Baron Tymas shares, “I’m thrilled to announce the launch of Guitar Montréal, a podcast series I created to spotlight the incredible guitarists working in and around the city of Montreal. Season one features eight conversations with amazing guitarists—Gary Schwartz, Greg Amirault, Sam Kirmayer, Patrick Kearney, Carlos Jiménez, Mathieu Soucy, Michael Bruzzese, and Mike Rud— complete with their original recordings, stories, and live playing. The series was recorded, edited, and mixed by two brilliant Concordia student research assistants (recording engineer Jamison Odling and editor/ mixer Ryan Nadin) and was generously supported by the Faculty of Fine Arts at Concordia University. Whether you’re a guitarist, a fan of Montreal’s music scene, or just into great conversation, this podcast is for you. Check it out on Spotify. Enjoy!”

1976

50TH REUNION Lanier Frank lfrank@stalbansschool.org Bill Kirk williamtkirk2@gmail.com Mark your calendars for your 50th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

John Brooks and his sister, Mittie Brooks Rooney ’78, went trekking ‘refugio-in-refugio’ (aka hut-to-hut) across the Dolomites in September: “A spectacular and challenging experience!” Marque Chambliss writes, “My son Langston ’25 graduated from Potomac

in June, where he’d been since 10th grade. In August, he matriculated at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA. He plans to pursue a dual degree in art and behavioral economics through an intercollege program between the College of Fine Arts and the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences. While at Potomac, Langston received strong encouragement from his teacher, Cort Morgan, and other instructors in the Visual and Performing Arts Concentration. Langston was also encouraged to apply to Carnegie Mellon by my Potomac classmate Andrew McElwaine, who lives in Pittsburgh and holds two master’s degrees from the institution. We saw Andrew and his wife, Margaret, several times when we visited Carnegie Mellon. During one visit to Pittsburgh, Langston, Andrew, Margaret, and I were delighted to see another Potomac classmate, Stephen Hill, whose singer-songwriter wife, Chanté Moore, performed at a venue there. We enjoyed a spectacular performance and met Chanté backstage after the show. My wife, Sheryll, saw Stephen again on September 6 when Chanté performed in Bethesda. I encourage you to see her. Langston’s fraternal twin brother, Logan, who attended the Edmund Burke School in DC, matriculated at the College of Arts & Sciences, Cornell University. He plans to major in China and Asia Pacific studies with a minor in applied economics. With both boys off to college, Sheryll and I are now empty nesters. I’ve been retired for three years, but during

’76

John Brooks ’76 and his sister, Mittie Brooks Rooney ’78, trekking across the Dolomites

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’76

Katherine Childs ’76’s family in Connecticut last winter with her brother John Childs ’78 and family

Anne Coleman ’76, Sue McAllister ’76, Alaine Peaslee-Hinshaw ’76, and Madeleine Carter ’76 at Mt. Desert Island, ME, in 2019, 43 years after going there the summer after eighth grade, where their lobster dinner order number was 43!

that time, I volunteered as a full-time cook, chauffeur, and housekeeper for my family. So now I can finally relax! However, Sheryll can’t. She continues teaching as a law professor at Georgetown University Law Center and, during her spare time, paints and writes books and articles. She’s working on her sixth book on the Black American freedom struggle, particularly the abolition of slavery and how it was central to perfecting democracy. We reside in my childhood home in Northwest Washington, where we moved nearly six years ago. Sheryll and I entertained classmate Tony Poole and his wife, Elizabeth, here last year, and we hope to host him and others from Potomac again in the near future. I’ll even cook!” Katherine Childs reports, “I’ve been living in Toronto for the last 25 years. This year marks 49 years since I graduated from Potomac and 35 years married to my spouse, Paul Hess. I’m an artist and have moved from photography into screen printing images onto silk. Though Paul is still full time at the University of Toronto, we manage to travel every year, most recently to Spain, where we had a return honeymoon to the Alhambra in Granada. I think Paul Thomas was in eastern Spain doing a bike tour at the same time that we were in the south. Upcoming trips include Guatemala and Morocco. Also, we traveled out to Berkeley this fall to visit son #2, who’s doing a postdoctoral fellowship in math. I hope you’ll reach

Adam Randolph. I live in CT and have a place in ME, too. I’m not looking to retire anytime soon.” Alaine Peaslee-Hinshaw writes, “Can’t believe we are 49 years beyond our graduation from Potomac! The silver lining to our now silvering age is that seeing Potomac friends reawakens the former younger sense of self! It is a long story, and I apologize if it sounds like a cliché reunion reflection. It is really about the bond of shared Potomac history. Several of us ended up getting together in ME at Anne Coleman’s family place after 43 years of separation (for some of us), and then, tragically, Anne died, and we gathered in Maine again for her memorial service, and then again last September at Leyla Day’s on Cutty Hunk Island, MA. It is so fun to know people, then not know them for decades, and then get reacquainted. Even those of us who weren’t very connected during our time at Potomac now appreciate people beyond the Potomac social subsets. We have the bond of our shared history. That’s what it is all about here—the Potomac bond of shared history—and I am sure I would enjoy a reunion with each and every one of you! I retired early from teaching art in Friends’ boarding schools and at an independent school in St. Louis. My family built a cabin, literally, on a lake in ME in 1965. Now, at almost 65, my husband and I live in remote ME, in a town of 90 people on the Canadian border. I have a large vegetable garden and curate the historical society museum.”

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out via my webpage (hesschilds.com) or on Instagram (@khchilds)!” Jay Kauffmann writes, “I live in Charlottesville now and am currently the English Department chair at the Miller School of Albemarle. Latest big news: I just finished up an ESU Scholarship at Oxford (Exeter College), and my new book, The Mexican Messiah: A Novella & Stories, just came out from Cornerstone Press (available wherever books are sold). Hope to catch up with everyone soon.” Bill Kirk notes, “I am nearing the end of a career as an editor and writer, having worked for newspapers, magazines, and corporate PR. But the big news is that I will soon be a grandfather, as my daughter is scheduled to have a baby in the spring. Very exciting! I live on the North Shore of Boston, where I spend as much time as possible in or on the water, mostly in OPBs—other people’s boats! Having taken over the job of class correspondent from Brad MacKenzie, I realize I have big shoes to fill. I hope to keep the news of this class, which celebrates number 50 in 2026, on the front page (so to speak) of future editions of Class Notes and The Term. Have a great fall, everyone!” David Moses shares, “I play a great deal of music these days. Professionally, I am a social worker therapist. I love the work. My four children, all Potomac grads, are adulting extremely well. Two are married. No grands yet! I see and am in constant contact with Baron Tymas ’75 and Katya Chavchavadze Redpath ’75. I am also still close with

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Class Notes Sandra Blinoff Sassow reports, “Hi everyone! It’s been a busy and exciting year–still running my green tech company (seabenergy.com) and even had the chance to speak at a few big climate events. On the home front, I’ve officially joined the empty-nester club, with children (and now a grandchild!) spread across the U.S., UK, and France– which makes for some excellent excuses to travel. I’m still based in the UK, near Winchester, so if any of you are passing through London or the South Coast, do get in touch. I’d love to reconnect over a coffee (or a pint!).”

’78

Tim Gould ’78 and Brian Homet ’78 at their UVA reunion in June

1977

’78

Four Hewes four@fourhewesdesign.com

1978

Julie Twiname Warder batwarder@cox.net

Angus Kerr writes, “Greetings to my classmates from ’78! I am retired, living between the family house in RI and our place in Brooklyn Heights. I spent this summer racing our J-22 sailboat, Namaste, and growing vegetables. This fall, I will be teaching fourth graders to sail at the local elementary school. Then it is off to France to visit my uncle and cousin. My wife, Tomoko, is now designing for Philip Limm. I had the pleasure of fellow classmate and close friend Alice MacKenzie visiting me at the beginning of June in RI. We had a blast! If you are in the RI area, please email me at hagikerr@yahoo.com. Peace & Love.” Alice MacKenzie and her brother, Brad MacKenzie ’76, share the sad news that their younger brother, Doug MacKenzie, whom many of their classmates knew from vacations, birthday parties, graduations, and other gatherings and celebrations, passed away during the summer of 2024. Wendell Miles shares, “We find ourselves adjusting to the empty nest again. I had the good fortune of catching up with our classmate Timothy Gould this summer. Great fun!” Carolina Kuczynski Reid reports, “My beloved mom, Jane Dudley Casey

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Carolina Kuczynski Reid ’78 with Susannah Humpstone Michalson ’78 and Carolina’s mother, Jane Dudley Casey Hughes ’52, at her muchbeloved Chevy Chase Club

’78 Byron Hope ’78 and Charlie Baldwin ’79 reunited in DC in June at the memorial for Wendell Miles ’78’s sister, Cecily Miles

’78

Alice MacKenzie ’78 and Angus Kerr ’78 together in Newport, RI, at the beginning of June

Mittie Brooks Rooney ’78 with her daughter, Cate Rooney Schrimsher ’08’s baby boy, Brooks, born in March

’78 Billy Hoffmann ’79, Alice MacKenzie ’78, Lola Singletary ’78, Julie Twiname Warder ’78, and Sally Anne Epstein ’78 in Connecticut in April at the memorial service for Julie’s mom

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Hughes ’52, passed away February 1, 2025, at 87 years of age. In her era, the school was in Dupont Circle in a rented building, and her parents, Joseph E. Casey (then a congressman) and Constance Dudley Casey (then head of the women’s National Democratic Club) were part of the fundraising effort in the 1940s that enabled the school to purchase all of the land in McLean that is now the permanent campus. My mom was very fond of Potomac and was eager for me to go there; I was the only one of her children to attend, and it was a perfect fit. I regret that we moved so much that I could not stay the whole time! I had wonderful teachers, in particular Ms. Wendy Paulson, who was my second-grade teacher and inspired and encouraged a lifelong love of writing in me. Ms. Paulson was kind enough to find me and send me the very poems I had written for her all those years ago, poems she believed good enough to be posted on the wall, a fact my eight-year-old self was very proud of (although I bet she did that for almost everyone!). They were about nature, of course: geese! I also remember my science teachers fondly, as well as Ivan the Terrible (the boa constrictor). Science, nature, and writing remain my greatest private joys. When my mom lost her husband, I spent a lot of time visiting her, which led to many lovely visits with friends who were a great comfort and joy to us both. In addition to Susannah Humpstone Michalson, I also especially want to thank Libby Jewett, Amalie Moses Reichblum, and Wendell Miles for their kindness, friendship, and support in that difficult time. They were great sounding boards for elder care matters, all kinds of wisdom, and just good fun. There are no words for the comfort it yields to ‘tend and befriend’ during times of crisis and stress. I am writing a book on caregiving and have found studies that show that it’s a really healthy thing to do when you are feeling overwhelmed. The more we lean in, the better off we are, as it turns out! Thank you, Potomac Tribe. With gratitude.” Nina Howard Regan shares, “Our big news is that we left our beloved VT and moved to Seattle this summer. Our kids and grandkids are the big draw. Would love to see any classmates in the area.”

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“It’s a new level of joy!” Mittie Brooks Rooney shares that her daughter, Cate Rooney Schrimsher ’08, gave birth to baby boy, Brooks, this past March

1979

Anita Winsor anwinsor@gmail.com

Kathy Cox is still singing and recently performed at Carnegie Hall as part of an international choir of about 150 voices, singing Fauré’s Requiem. In the audience were Barbara Greenewalt and Elizabeth Cox Mound ’77. She writes, “Thank you to Potomac, from the Grasshoppers through Gilbert and Sullivan and the Christmas play, for introducing me to singing!” Bill Hoffmann shares, “Hoping all is well for everyone! This summer was wonderful, and we had a wonderful road trip branded as ‘The Great Freeloading Adventure of 2025’! The route included NM, MN, and much of New England. It was a blast! This fall, I started my eighth school year back at Potomac, teaching eighth-grade science! I remain grateful for all my Potomac teachers from long ago! Give a shout if you are in the DC/ McLean area, and let’s get together!” Jeannette Matheson Lussi writes, “I’m just getting home from a quick trip down to NC to visit with my daughter, Tyler, who plays professional soccer for the NC Courage. I keep up with Irene Howard Higginson, so I called her up, and we met for coffee. I loved catching up with her and hearing about her grown kids. Our daughters briefly went to Norwood School together when they were little, so it had been a while since we last saw each other. Life is still very busy with our business at Assisted Living Well. I still enjoy competing with my horse and fox hunting in the winter. I have also enjoyed keeping in

touch with Marijke Mars, and we often meet for dinner when she is in town. My prayers go out daily to our fellow classmate, Ralph Savarese, who is going through some health issues and is one of the strongest guys I know.”

1980

Rylan Harris rylan.r.harris@gmail.com

1981

45TH REUNION Mark your calendars for your 45th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org. David Fairman writes, “This April saw me move from Boulder, CO, where I had lived for 35 years, down to Canon City, CO, to start life together with my girlfriend, Bex. Giving it all up for love, as they say. I’m in the process of closing down my neuromuscular therapy practice of 29 years in Boulder and will be working to build my practice anew here in Canon City. No small feat at 59, but here goes! Wish me luck! You can see what I’m up to in that regard here: https://david-fairman.abmp.com/.”

’79

Jeannette Matheson Lussi ’79 with Irene Howard Higginson ’79

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Class Notes ’83

’83

’84

Teddy Damgard ’83 with his sons, Teddy and John, at last season’s playoff win in Detroit

’83

Karen Stephenson ’83 and a friend hiking

1983

Eric McGuire emcg.dcfd@gmail.com

Renee Lettow Lerner ’83’s daughter, Maria ’26 (in the pink dress), who has just begun her senior year at Potomac, at “Senior Sunrise” on the first day of school

’83

Alison Kirk Long ’83 visiting Louise Shaw Coffelt ’83 in Charlotte, NC

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The Term

Teddy Damgard shares, “My wife and I are making the bittersweet adjustment to being empty nesters.” Renee Lettow Lerner writes, “Craig’s and my youngest child, Maria Lerner ’26, started her senior year at Potomac. Her siblings are Anna Lerner ’20 and Elias Lerner ’22. In a newish tradition called ‘Senior Sunrise,’ on the first day of school, she and her classmates met on the Potomac football field at dawn. Fortunately, there were coffee and bagels! Maria is on the Potomac tennis team with LuLu Black ’27, daughter of Adria DeLeonibus Black. I’m looking forward to seeing Adria at the matches this fall!” Karen Stephenson offers this quick update: “We are living in a small farming town in central MA, attempting to grow flowers and garlic. I’ve got two seniors—one in college and one in high school who is dual-enrolled—and a munchkin in first grade. After years of working in the therapeutic nonprofit field and in education policy, I’ve pivoted to practicing as a sound therapist. I’m currently launching a course for women, in collaboration with my sister, focusing on brain and nervous system health. It’s been a heavy lift to get it together, but

Emily Eden Trotman ’84, May 2025, at her recent graduation from Columbia School of Social Work

I’m super excited about the work. The rest of the time, I try to fit in as much traveling, reading, and felting as possible. Oh, and I caught up with Valerie de Liedekerke in a video chat and hope to follow Jennifer Webber’s lead in actually seeing her in person soon.”

1984

Mary Day Fitzgibbon mdfitz13@gmail.com James Quigley jspquigley@gmail.com Jennifer Maddox Sergent jensergent630@gmail.com Mary Day Fitzgibbon reports, “I recently had a nice visit with Pilar Frank O’Leary, who was preparing to drop off her youngest, Nico, at Taft for his freshman year. Additionally, she has a daughter in her second year at Georgetown University, and an eldest daughter who is working for the Four Seasons in Miami. I am still happily living in DC, where I see Potomac grads from all classes. I especially love seeing Cathy Farrell, former Potomac parent and school librarian, and a second mom to me! This spring, our second daughter, Kate, graduated from the American University of Rome. We celebrated her graduation with a family trip to Sardinia, which was

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’85

weirder than normal these days, so I’m glad to reconnect with Potomac friends and dream of gathering around a maypole soon.”

1986 ’85 Alden Hall ’85 in Chile to celebrate James Newbold ’85’s wedding

wonderful. Kate will stay in Rome to work and pursue a master’s. Eliza, our oldest, is working for Singulart in Paris, Lizzie Peet ’85 and Carrie Gibson ’73 on the and our youngest, John, is in his third PICKLEBALLERS set year at MSU.” Matt McGuire writes, “My brother, Eric McGuire ’83, and I drove my Lizzie Peet writes, “Hello! I just daughter, Charlotte, to San Francisco, wrapped the feature, PICKLEBALLERS, where she’s living postgraduation from in San Diego, playing a villainous Karen Amherst University. Stops along the way who really just wants to be loved…one included, but were not limited to, the smash at a time! I hope everyone is Bonneville Salt Flats in UT.” surviving the roller-coaster world we Kenrick Skerritt and his new bride, seem to be living in. I loved bringing Heather, were married this past spring the band together for Reunion 2025 this in DC. Chris Coxson made the trip from past October!” Philadelphia to attend the beautiful event. Almus Thorp reports, “Writing this Emily Eden Trotman shares, “I have as I gasp for air, having moved my eldest recently graduated from Columbia daughter into a five-story walk-up in School of Social Work, where I obtained a ‘up and coming’ (a little scary) South master’s degree. I even survived statistics, Slope of Brooklyn, NY. I’ve become which is proof that it’s never too late to countryfied, having moved to Boothbay take on something new! I am practicing Harbor, ME, a year ago. The world is therapy for a community mental health agency called Westchester Jewish Community Services in Hartsdale, NY. We enjoyed a wonderful Fourth of July with Dodi Wexler in Manchester-by-theSea, MA. Looking forward to seeing my classmates again at our next reunion!”

40TH REUNION It’s your 40th Reunion, so mark your calendars for October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

Kass Savarese Lazerow writes, “I have spent most of the summer upstate in the Hudson Valley after my husband, Mike, and I published Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story About the Entrepreneur’s Messy Path to Success. We were also excited to become empty nesters last fall when our third child left for college.”

1990

Ricky Stokes shares, “We are thriving. My daughter took a summer session at LSE in London and has started her sophomore year at USC’s (Carolina) Darla

1985

A big thank-you to our Reunion 2025 Class Chairs, Chris Arndt, Robert Creamer, Eliza Graham, Randy Myers, Lizzie Peet, Connie Pendleton, and Christy Halvorson Ross, for their outstanding leadership. We are so grateful for all they did to ensure the class showed up in full force! Alden Hall shares, “My wife, Marcy Chong, and I went down to Chile in March for a far-too-brief visit to help celebrate James Newbold’s wedding!”

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’90 Da Boys in Colorado: David Strazan ’90, Jay Demas ’90, David Sherman ’90, Ricky Stokes ’90, and Adam Sherman ’93

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Class Notes ’93

Moore School of Business. My son, Logan, has started his junior year in high school. He and I will be heading to Colorado to spend time skiing and snowboarding with David Strazan and his children, Liam and Simone. Hope all is well.”

Pascal Cooper shares, “I live in Houston, TX, and work in residential income real estate in Southern California, Houston, and The Woodlands, TX. I was inducted into an exclusive club of USC Cinema alumni that includes the creators of Star Wars, Back to the Future, and Boys in the Hood. My third feature film is currently in postproduction, and my fourth is in development. I’m always interested in meeting people who are interested in investing in movies or simply learning about movie production.”

1991

35TH REUNION Charisse Mortenson McElroy jcharissem@yahoo.com Jamie Stump jfstump@yahoo.com Mark your calendars for your 35th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

Ryan Campbell Garrett shares, “I recently expanded my work as an art advisor through my firm, RCG Art Advisory, where I help private and corporate clients build thoughtful art collections. In addition, I’ve begun curating exhibitions in unique venues across Southern California, which has been an exciting way to share contemporary art with new audiences and connect more closely with the community.” Dr. Lynne Lightfoote has launched her next chapter with the opening of her new OB-GYN practice, The Washington Wellness Group, in Chevy Chase, MD. Lynne continues to advance women’s health care by offering patient-focused, premium services that reflect her vision of empowering women at every stage of life. Tim Wisecarver had a wonderful time reconnecting with Ally Bloom ’92 and John Cecchi ’92 this summer. Many fond Potomac memories were shared.

’91

Queen Camilla of England, photographed by Jonathan Brady ’93, during her visit to Dulwich Picture Gallery in South East London

’93

Michelle O’Hara Levin ’93, Erin Cleary Murtagh ’93, and Tara Barrett Ciongoli ’93 on Nantucket to celebrate Erin’s birthday

1993

When news photographer Jonathan Brady went to work one morning recently, he did not imagine he would be snapping a picture of Queen Camilla! The queen joined eight students from Dulwich Village Infants’ School inside the original telephone box during a visit to Dulwich Picture Gallery in South East London to open the new ArtPlay Pavilion and Sculpture Garden. Michelle O’Hara Levin, Erin Cleary Murtagh, and Tara Barrett Ciongoli went to Nantucket to celebrate Erin’s birthday in July with their husbands and 10 kids! Adam Tully writes, “Hello from Buenos Aires! I’ve been living here for nine years pursuing a career as a composer and guitarist in contemporary tango music. Last August, I had the honor of playing to a sold-out hall at the Centro Cultural Recoleta in the Buenos Aires Tango Festival. The Adam Tully Trio features all-original tango music.”

’93

Tim Wisecarver ’91, Ally Bloom ’92, and John Cecchi ’92

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1992

The Term

The Adam Tully Trio performing a sold-out show in Buenos Aires in August: Adam Tully ’93 (guitar), Shino Ohnaga (piano), and Patricio Cotella (bass)

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’94

1994

’96

Will Lamb wlamb76@gmail.com Ashley Walde agwalde@gmail.com

Sandy Gentles ’94 and his wife, Kate, with their son, James, and daughter, Laura, and Poppy the Frenchie, at home in Baltimore

’94

Sandy Gentles shares, “Baltimore continues to be an incredible place, and I loved having dinner with Walter Cheatle when he was in town for an event.” Perry Aldige Shure notes, “I love spending time with one of my oldest friends from Potomac, Tiffany Tuttle, in Sun Valley, ID, every summer.” Ashley Walde writes, “Banff National Park in Canada was an amazing and beautiful place to spend our spring break. We got in lots of skiing in the Canadian Rockies and did some sightseeing.”

1995 Perry Aldige Shure ’94, left, and Tiffany Tuttle ’94 in Sun Valley, Idaho, in August

’94 Ashley Walde ’94 with her son, Beckam, and her daughter, Finley, on their spring break trip to Banff National Park in Canada

Heartfelt thanks to our Reunion 2025 Class Chairs—Nish Herat, Reed Kuhn, Matt McBay, and Keith Weinstein. Because of their efforts, the weekend was filled with joy, reconnection, and lasting memories. Erin Vagley writes, “I’m excited to share that my role with the Seattle Sounders now includes supporting the Seattle Reign of the National Women’s Soccer League. Contributing to the growth of women’s soccer in the U.S. is deeply meaningful and full circle to my Potomac soccer days. We also recently welcomed fellow Potomac alum Sasha DiGiulian ’11, a world champion climber and entrepreneur, to visit the team. She spoke about her remarkable career, recovering from injuries, and building her company, SEND Bars (which really are amazing). I’m grateful to Sasha for her openness, for her generosity, and for connecting so authentically with the team.”

1996 ’95 Erin Vagley ’95, left, and Sasha DiGiulian ’11 in Seattle

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30TH REUNION Mike Herren jmherr22@gmail.com Mark your calendars for your 30th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

Ken Milton ’96 and Peter Young ’96 reconnecting on the golf course, where stories, swings, and laughs picked up right where they left off

Andrew Davis is beginning his 10th year as head of school at Mount Tamalpais School in Mill Valley, CA, just north of San Francisco. He notes that the school’s architecture and outstanding performing arts program often remind him of Potomac. He’s also sent math teachers to professional development workshops led by Tom Harding. If you’re curious about what a West Coast version of Potomac looks like, or just want mountain biking or trail running tips in Marin, Andrew welcomes you to reach out.” Mike Herren reports, “I am doing well and getting back out on the tennis court more often now that we seem to be through the worst of the heat, and I’ve recently had to cut way back on the running. I’ve been at a UN health organization for the last eight years in DC, so if anyone is around and would like to get a coffee or lunch sometime, let me know—it would be fun to catch up in person!” Erin Tadie Johnson writes, “I am so grateful to those who sent in remembrances of our classmate, Michael Anthony, and to those of you who have thought of him and his family with kindness. I am especially indebted to Mike Herren for his help coordinating the effort to preserve memories of Michael. I hope to get the chance to thank all of you in person at the next reunion.” Ellery Walde Schauer shares, “For the past 25 years, I have been living in Charleston, SC, with my husband of 17 years and our two children, Sophia (12) and Jameson (8). Being a Realtor and investor in Charleston’s residential market for the past 18 years has kept me very busy. I decided to resume

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Class Notes ’98 ’96

Ellery Walde Schauer ’96 and her family

Elizabeth Stewart ’98, in Sweden with her daughter, Paloma, and her mother Alice Fales Stewart ’57, visiting her aunt, Willia Fales Eckerberg ’54

my childhood passion for horseback riding about seven years ago. Locally, I enjoy riding at Rardin Equestrian on Wadmalaw Island and compete from time to time. Every two or three months, I return to Northern VA to visit family and set aside time to ride in Middleburg. My niece and nephew, Finley and Beckam Martin, are in seventh grade and fifth grade, respectively, at Potomac! They are very happy there, have flourished academically, and enjoy all the fantastic athletic options. Campus looks so different today from when we went there—very, very fancy! But last I checked, they still had the Llamas, which I love!”

serving as the chief design and product officer, every chapter has been full of challenges, growth, and unforgettable memories. I’m proud to have played a part in building something more than just beautiful workspaces. It’s the people and members who fill them, the communities that grow inside them, and the technology that ties it all together. That combination is why I’ve stayed for a decade, and why I still believe so strongly in our future. I’m endlessly grateful for the colleagues who’ve inspired me, supported me, and taught me along the way. Here’s to the next chapter–and the people who make it worth staying.”

1997

1998

Ulka Anjaria shares, “I’m very happy to announce that The Oxford Handbook of Modern Indian Literatures, which I co-edited with Anjali Nerlekar, has just been awarded the 2025 René Wellek prize for Best Edited Collection by the American Comparative Literature Association! Thanks to the team at Oxford University Press, as well as to our wonderful contributors!” Ebbie Wisecarver notes, “This past August marked my 10th year at WeWork, and what an incredible adventure it has been. From launching five new markets and relocating to Shanghai and Japan, to returning to New York City to assume a global role, and currently

Ann Bosiack shares, “I’m excited to share that this year, I opened my own specialty veterinary ophthalmology practice, Veterinary Vision Specialists, in Richmond, VA. As a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, I provide advanced eye care for pets.” Jessica Ohly writes, “My year has been busy. My father passed away in March, which he was ready for. I was able to host my first annual ‘Camp Aunt Jessica’ with Jack Ohly (fourth grade) and Charlotte Ohly (second grade), the son and daughter of my brother, John Ohly ’01. We had a great time playing in CO, where we hiked, rafted, and read together. After that, I spent time in Morocco before starting

Elizabeth Race Terborgh elizabethrace@gmail.com

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The Term

my 12th year of teaching at Colorado Academy in Denver.” Elizabeth Stewart traveled in June to Falsterbo, Sweden, with her mom, Alice Fales Stewart ’57, and her daughter, Paloma, to visit her aunt, Willia Fales Eckerberg ’54, and lots of cousins. One highlight was picking raspberries and making raspberry syrup drinks.”

1999

Sahar Batmanghelidj saharbatman@gmail.com Christian Gomez christian.gomez@gmail.com

’99

Jessica Ohly jessicaohly@gmail.com

Reed Landry ’99’s sons, Payton, Walker, and Brooks, on their first day of school—all three are Potomac Panthers!

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2000

’01

Maura Myers Bisogni maura.bisogni@gmail.com Jonathan Haworth haworth.jonathan@gmail.com

The dynamic duo of Brady Millar Doty and Dan Doty deserve a big thank-you for their leadership as 25th Reunion Chairs. Their dedication and enthusiasm made this milestone celebration one to remember! Chris Ayer reports, “My first song in six years, ‘The Water and the Wave,’ dropped on July 3. I’m excited to be sharing something as an artist again! I’ve spent most of the last years focused on collaborating and supporting other artists’ voices, and it’s been a really gratifying experience, so much so that I almost never put out music again. But I like this one a lot and thought maybe it shouldn’t die on my hard drive! Brady Millar Doty and Dan Doty write, “We were excited to serve as Reunion Chairs for the Class of 2000’s 25th high school reunion this fall! Over the summer, we took our three kiddos, all of whom attend Potomac (!), on a rafting trip down the Salmon River in Idaho and camped, fished, and kayaked for five days along with their grandparents, Jim and Tracy Millar. It was a fun journey full of adventure!”

’00

Dan Doty ’00 and Brady Millar Doty ’00 with their kids, Beckett, Etta, and Lawson, on the Salmon River in Idaho

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’01 Shannon Gopaul Balser ’01’s daughter, Cameron, on her first day of third grade at Potomac

Louisa Thomas shares, “My husband and I live outside Boston with our two kids (three and seven), who are endless sources of mischief and fascination. I write a weekly column for the New Yorker, ‘The Sporting Scene,’ and intermittently teach creative nonfiction writing at Harvard. I would love to catch up with Potomac folks. Let me know if you’re ever around Boston!”

John Ohly ’01’s children, Jack and Charlotte, on their first day of fourth and second grades at Potomac

’01

2001

25TH REUNION Stirling Kelso Neff stirlingkelso@gmail.com Mark your calendars for your 25th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

Skip Calvert shares, “In June, Potomac rising seniors Lena Hester ’26 and Nasir Yankey ’26 completed Five Guys’ first-ever high school summer internship program! Supported by Potomac parent Sam Chamberlain and me, Lena and Nasir accomplished several impactful projects during their time working at Five Guys headquarters.” John Ohly notes, “2025 has been a year of change for the Ohly family. In

Skip Calvert ’01 with Potomac seniors Lena Hester ’26 and Nasir Yankey ’26 after completing Five Guys’ first high school summer internship program

March, Fred Ohly, a member of the Potomac community for over 40 years, passed away after a long battle with dementia. Shortly after his passing, the family welcomed a new four-legged member to our home, Birdie. Following a summer filled with travel, including their first solo flights to visit family in NE and CO, this fall, Jack (10) enters Middle School, and Charlotte (8) starts second grade.”

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Class Notes ’03

’02

2002

Victoria Sylos-Labini victoriavsl@gmail.com Sartaj Ajrawat writes, “I recently had surgery on my right foot and got to live out a lifelong dream of being a onelegged pirate for six weeks.”

2003

Aleem Ahmed aleemhahmed@gmail.com Maya Jaafar Lena maya.j.lena@gmail.com

Sartaj Ajrawat ’02 living out his lifelong dream of being a one-legged pirate after surgery on his foot

’03

Pamela Barris Rosenthal ’03 with daughters Olivia (left) and Lyla at the Llamas on the first day of school

Cal Nannes ’03 (far right) out west with his daughter, Zoey; his son, Jack; and his wife, Lilly

’03

Sahar Batmanghelidj ’99 (second from left) with her sister, Leila Batmanghelidj ’03 (far right), Sahar’s husband, Sam Miotke (far left), and all but one of their kids (from left to right), Dariush Zlatkovsky (4), Bibi Miotke (13), Naz Zlatkovsky (6), and Aryo Miotke (3), in Minneapolis, January 2025

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The Term

Leila Batmanghelidj shares, “I am enjoying life and plenty of adventure with my family, including my two kiddos, Naz (6) and Dariush (4), in Seattle. I took my kids to Minneapolis in the dead of winter to visit my sister, Sahar Batmanghelidj ’99, and her family. We had a blast playing in the snow and on frozen lakes, eating yummy meals, and visiting the Mall of America. I also enjoyed a visit to Seattle from my other sister, Nahal Batmanghelidj ’98, and her daughter, Arden (10). We had a classic Pacific Northwest time, including lots of seafood, beach frolicking, and snowball fights. I’m looking forward to future family gatherings, but hopefully next time during the summer months!” Anne Benveniste reports, “I recently launched a new podcast called Character with Anne Benveniste. It’s honest conversations with New Yorkers who create the vibe that makes this city great, conversations about the journey to figuring out who they are, what they want to say, and the role the city played in the process. It’s available wherever you get your podcasts, or you can subscribe to Substack for the full project, where I share my deeper analysis as a coach on why each guest is thriving, photos of each guest in their creative space, and the guest’s favorite spots in New York. Learn more at annebenveniste. com/character.” Ben Gillespie is currently working in Paris. He invited Mr. Rich to a world premiere concert of his original compositions on October 11, 2025, at the Conservatoire Rachmaninoff; Mr. Rich

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attended! A few of the pieces he presented were written while he was at Potomac! Rostam Batmanglij and Danny Gavula were at the concert as well. Cal Nannes works as a primary care physician on Martha’s Vineyard, MA. He writes, “In addition to the occasional summer sightings of Eric Rosenthal, Pamela Barris Rosenthal, and Mary Thomas, I’ve seen a few Potomac bumper stickers, in particular over the summer when vacationers flock to the island. I have rekindled my love of running and have started applying for major marathon lotteries, without success yet. My wife, Lilly; my kids, Jack (9) and Zoey (7); and I were lucky enough to travel to Ireland, Jamaica, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon this past year. If you ever find yourself in Boston or on Cape Cod and fancy a trip to Martha’s Vineyard, please let me know!”

2004

Regina Lee Fechter reginablairlee@gmail.com Claire Robertson robertsonaclaire@gmail.com

JJ Reibel graduated with his fourth master’s degree, a master of science in computer science, from Western Governors University, adding to his MS in data analytics, MS in cybersecurity

’04

’05 Marcus Ginyard ’05 earlier this year in Finland

Michael Murphy ’04 and his wife, Casey, with their children Dylan (5), Quinn (2), Conor (1), and Gunner, at Red Rocks near their Denver home

and information assurance, and MBA. He also wrote more books, including the zombie-infected story Red Square: Exodus, the horror story FRED, and computer science titles C Programming and C++ Programming. Some of JJ’s computer science titles have been collected in libraries of academic institutions such as the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he studied computer science at both the bachelor’s and master’s levels. He’s planning to write more books.

2005 ’04 JJ Reibel ’04 at graduation in Seattle with Sage the Night Owl

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Thank you to our Class of 2005 Reunion Chairs, Caroline Kettler Crosby, Lolly Cunningham Rivas, and Justin Stilwell. Your leadership and enthusiasm made the 20th Reunion a true celebration of friendship and community! After three and a half years in commercial real estate finance as a mortgage broker with Medalist Capital,

’06 Ainsley Morris Cohen ’06’s daughter, Brynnie (kindergarten), and son, Rhys (second grade), on the first day of school

Marcus Ginyard has embarked on a new chapter at his alma mater, the UNC at Chapel Hill. He recently joined the Office of the Secretary as director of special projects, a role that will span finance & operations, UNC real estate, government affairs, athletics, and other strategic initiatives.

2006

20TH REUNION Virginia O’Connell Fowler oconnell.virginia@gmail.com Mark your calendars for your 20th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

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Class Notes ’06

’06

Michelle Michaels ’06 on Cape Cod with her twoyear-old and her husband, Nikhil

Griffith Roth Roberts ’06’s son, Porter, heading off to his first day of first grade at Potomac

Michelle Michaels writes, “I got my doctorate in 2020 and have been working as a psychologist since, and loving it! My husband, Nikhil, is a professor of American literature, and our son turned two this summer. He’s an adorable handful and already chatting in two languages (my love of languages was fostered by the wonderful Potomac teachers!).” Willie Morrison shares, “I co-wrote several songs that came out recently. ‘Giddy Up,’ performed by Brooke Eden, was the theme song for the NCAA softball championship week on ESPN and ABC. It’s a queer line dancing anthem that Brooke promoted with a tour of gay bars across the country, where she performed. ‘I Don’t Wanna Know’ is performed by Chase Matthew. Tigirlily Gold sings ‘Thinkin’ Bout That’; they have performed the song several times at The Grand Ole Opry. And Ashland Craft released ‘Mama Don’t Pray Like She Used To.’ Finally, my wife, Lindsey, and I welcomed a baby girl at the end of September (our first!).”

Patrick Foust writes, “Most days, I sit behind a desk, headphones on, staring at my computer screen for hours. But Stephanie Croghan ’07 living her best life in every now and then, I get to ride an ATV London, England while our director of photography sits behind me on the rack, filming an epic tracking shot of our subject. And that’s Katherine Blackwood Blair and her why I love what I do! This past week, we husband, John Blair, welcomed their had an incredible time shooting a short first child, baby boy Fraser Blackwood film for the Kraft Heinz Made by Us series. Blair, on August 14, 2025. We got to play farmer for the day in the Robin Nichols Bradley, Emma gorgeous landscape of the foothills of Rocks Goodman, Katherine the Adirondacks, which, honestly, was Blackwood Blair, and Kiely Webster like living out a childhood fantasy. Even Barnard celebrated the Fourth of July better, this particular farm helps supply together in Washington, DC. Robin’s the high-quality cow’s milk that goes son, Benny (10 months), and Emma’s into the epically delicious Philadelphia son, Murphy (20 months), loved Cream Cheese. We learned all about this the pool! essential ingredient in our Kraft Heinz Cate Rooney Schrimsher and her supply chain, and soon we get to share husband, Austin, welcomed their that with the world!” son, Brooks, to the family in March. Andrew Johnson shares, “This was Everyone is happy and healthy and a big summer for my family and me. I enjoying this new chapter! graduated with my MBA from Michigan Ross in May, and in June, my wife, Jillian, and I welcomed our third daughter, Viviana. I’ve enjoyed spending the summer in family mode and readjusting Brian Freeman writes, to the newborn phase before getting “The Prison in Glass, ready for my next, post-MBA chapter!” my first memoir and published book, is currently available on all digital platforms, including Amazon, Rosalind Fennell Apple, Google Play, rfennell12@gmail.com and Barnes and Noble. Anne Lenrow Kobylarczyk To the class of 2009, all the aklenrow@gmail.com best from B-Free!”

2007

Malcolm Dilley malcolmdilley@gmail.com

Stephanie Croghan notes, “I am still living in London with my dog and traveling as often as I can. I will have been to 13 countries by year’s end!”

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’07

2009

2008

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2010

’08 ’07

Tori McCaffrey tori.mccaffrey@gmail.com Maggie Nelsen carrington.nelsen@gmail.com

Gabriel Pinchev ’08 and his eight-month-old daughter, Juliette Andrew Johnson ’07 and his wife, Jillian, welcomed their third daughter, Viviana, this summer

’08

A huge thank-you to our Class of 2010 Reunion Chairs, Jenna Meza, Maggie Nelsen, and Paul Taylor. Your enthusiasm and hard work brought classmates together and made the 15th milestone reunion one to remember! Drew Morrison writes, “In August, I launched my campaign for Montgomery County Council. I am running to represent District 1, which includes Bethesda, Chevy Chase, and parts of Potomac. The election is in June 2026, so there is a lot of door-knocking and fundraising ahead!”

2011

15TH REUNION Marie Henneberg marie.henneburg@gmail.com Charlotte Morris charlottelaurie93@gmail.com Mark your calendars for your 15th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

’08 Robin Nichols Bradley ’08’s son, Benny (10 mos), and Emma Rocks Goodman ’08’s son, Murphy (20 mos), enjoying some pool time on the Fourth of July Cate Rooney Schrimsher ’08 and her husband, Austin, with their son, Brooks

’11

’11 Kathleen Smith Barnard ’11 with her husband, Rob, on their wedding day in Middleburg, VA

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Ellen Overstreet Helvey ’11 and her husband, Walker, welcomed their son, Case, this fall

Summer Delaney was named to the 2025 Most Inclusive HR Influencer List. She shared, “I started CollabWORK with a mission: to make hiring more inclusive by amplifying jobs within trusted communities. I am grateful to be listed among so many leaders and friends whom I admire for advancing inclusion and belonging in HR.” Sasha DiGiulian shares, “I completed the first female free ascent in Madagascar. This climb was a special one. Exhausting, exhilarating, intimidating, rewarding—all in the name of teamwork and making the right decisions along the way.” Ellen Overstreet Helvey and her husband, Walker, welcomed their first baby, Case, last August. They look forward to raising him in Arlington, VA, where they currently reside. Kathleen Smith Barnard married her husband, Rob Barnard, in May in Middleburg, VA. Campbell Millar

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Class Notes ’12

Schmidt and Ellen Overstreet Helvey were bridesmaids, and Russell Schmidt ’12 officiated! Kathleen and her husband recently moved to Arlington, VA, and she is excited to be a new member of the Alumni Governing Council and reconnect with more Potomac alumni.

2012

Jamie Lovegrove lovegrovejs@gmail.com Matt Carney ’12 shares, “In September 2024, I married Abigail McManus, in Washington, DC, surrounded by a number of classmates from Potomac. I work in wealth management at Merrill Lynch in DC and live in Adams Morgan, where my wife and I bought a townhouse this past March.”

Matt Carney ’12 and his wife, Abigail McManus, on their wedding day in September 2024

’14

2013

Soraya Batmanghelidj sorayabatman94@gmail.com Shing-Wai Koo Chan writes, “We welcomed our sweet baby girl, Aurora Hope Chan, on August 5, 2025! Our hearts are full of gratitude for a healthy and happy little one.”

Bride Sarah Chiang Lauzie ’14 and her bridesmaids (from left to right) Tammy Vo ’14, Amy Zhang ’14, Serena Thoma ’14, and Sidney Levingston ’14

Johannes Löhner composed the first act of a new opera based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. He is currently teaching music at the Nürnberg Hochschule für Musik during the school year and conducting opera in San Jose, CA, during the summer.

’13 Aurora Hope Chan, Shing-Wai Koo Chan ’13’s daughter, joined the family last August

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2014

Vanessa Luehrs Hwang vanessahwang28@gmail.com

Sidney Levingston writes, “Sarah Chiang Lauzier and her husband, David, were married in a beautiful ceremony in Montreal, Quebec, in May. They currently live in Los Angeles, California, where Sarah is completing her medical residency in plastic surgery.” Sidney continues, “Serena Thoma lives in Rochester, NY, where she works as a mechanical engineer. She and her wife, Skyler, were married in an intimate ceremony in April. They are the proud parents of three adorable cats.”

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’15

’14

Alp Demiroglu writes, “I’m excited to share that I’ve started my master of environmental design (MED) at Yale University’s School of Architecture! I am also delighted to be transitioning from my role as a Designer III at Robert A.M. Stern Architects to being a part-time research specialist.”

2017

Louisa Miller ’15 on a rainy day in Delft, Netherlands, next to a local Dutch-themed statue

Serena Thoma ’14 and her wife, Skyler, at Serena’s graduation from graduate school in May 2023

2015

Tabitha Huff Taylor tabihuff9@gmail.com

We had a Dream Team for Reunion 2025! Brendan Dwyer, Gillian Price, and JP Young, thank you for your leadership and for making your 10th milestone celebration such a success! Taaj Davis reports, “All is well, and I am currently writing this note from Woodberry Forest School, where I am now heading into my seventh year as a boarding school educator. In addition to teaching history and coaching football, I spend most of my time leading administrative work related to diversity and student life. Career aside, I have enjoyed leaning into my creativity. I just passed the 50-episode mark of The NuBlack Podcast, which I co-host, I released a new song called ‘Link Me at Southwark’ back in June, and I have also started to do some writing on Substack! Potomac memories recently

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came rushing back to me last spring when I reunited with Evan Becker, Bennett Caplin, and Brendan Dwyer at an alumni event in DC. I was also fortunate to catch up with Fitz Reese during a trip up to Boston. There is a lot to be grateful for.” Louisa Miller writes, “After graduating from high school, I went to college at Northeastern University, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. I worked in RI for five years at a company called Bowman, and I’m currently working towards a master’s degree in civil engineering at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands.”

Nick Abushacra shares, “This past summer, I wrapped up three amazing years at the Congressional Budget Office. It was an honor and a pleasure to work alongside so many dedicated folks in the Macroeconomic Analysis Division. Thank you to everyone at the CBO for the amazing experience and for all the work you do for the country! I’ll be living and studying in Philadelphia for the next two years for my MBA at The Wharton School. Please reach out if you’re in the area!”

’17

2016

10TH REUNION Arjun Fischer arjunmfischer@gmail.com Danielle Grae daniellegrae2022@gmail.com Gabriel Miller gabriel@millerwalker.com Mark your calendars for your 10th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

Nick Abushacra ’17 with his parents, Frieda and Pierre, on Capitol Hill

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Class Notes ’17

’19

2019

Margot Labrecque margot.m.labrecque@gmail.com

Nathan Evans writes, “I work as an art contractor at the Torpedo Factory. I recently served as assistant project manager for a mural completed with Washington Tennis & Education Foundation and Mubadala Investment Group, and I have three upcoming solo shows as I continue advancing my artistic career.”

2020

Samantha Stacey Wood ’17 and her husband welcomed their son, Peter, last June

Samantha Stacey Wood writes, “My husband and I moved to London on an assignment for his job in January, and we welcomed our son, Peter, in June!” Liv Wilson is currently completing their master’s in social work at Columbia University and interning at Golden Psychology, a private practice dedicated to gender-affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community. When not in school, Liv works in professional theater and does a bit of writing as well.

2018

Connor Havermann cwhavermann1016@gmail.com Sara Kowalik sarakowalik2018@gmail.com Ryan Lovallo ryanlovallo@gmail.com Gabriela Williams gabrielaewilliams@gmail.com

Sophia Li writes, “In May, I graduated from Georgetown Law, and I will be starting work as an associate at Jones Day in their Washington, DC, office. I’m taking some time to unwind after the bar exam, traveling through a few different European cities before heading out on a boat trip along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. It’s been a great way to relax and recharge.” Nadia Scharpf has lived in Manhattan for two years now, where she works in audit at PwC in the Asset & Wealth Management sector. She

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Kristen Fairbank ’19, Megan Sharkey ’19, and Christine Sharkey ’83 celebrate the opening of Desert 5 Spot in DC

recently obtained her official Certified Public Accountant license from the New York State Education Department after passing all four sections of the exam on the first try. She is involved in the Armenian and Tulane alumni communities in NYC and has also enjoyed attending the Potomac alumni events there.

Caroline Lay carolinekellogglay@gmail.com Caroline Otteni ottenicaroline@gmail.com

Thank you to Declan Cleaver and Caroline Lay for their leadership as the Class of 2025 Reunion Chairs–you did a great job! We’re so grateful for your time and energy, and we look forward to celebrating your 10th Reunion together. Class of 2020, good news! You now have your own LinkedIn group: Potomac School—Class of 2020 Alumni. Join today to connect, share updates, and stay in touch with your classmates.

’19

Scott Grayson, Saggaf Alhashmi, Jim Handley and Eun Yang from NBC, Shawn Perkins, and Nathan Evans ’19 celebrating Nathan’s mural project with WTEF and Mubadala Investment Group

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2021

5TH REUNION Will Fearey wcfearey@gmail.com Rachael Fields rmfields19@gmail.com Lucy Goldberg lucyemail03@gmail.com Maya Sardar mayasardar1515@gmail.com Mark your calendars for your 5th Reunion in October 2026. If you’re interested in volunteering to help get your classmates together, email alumni@potomacschool.org.

Blake Arrendell shares, “This past spring, I graduated from the University of Virginia with a bachelor of science in architecture. While spending the summer at home, I had the opportunity to intern at Quinn Evans Architects, working with Charles Sparkman ’05. In August, I began my master of architecture at the University of Southern California.” UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd brings her championship swag to iHeart Women’s Sports with Fudd Around and Find Out, a weekly podcast that takes fans along for the ride as Azzi spends her final year of college trying to reclaim the national championship and prepare to be a first-round WNBA draft pick. Ever wonder what it’s like to be a worldclass athlete in the public spotlight while still managing schoolwork, friendships, and family time? It’s time to Fudd Around and Find Out!

’21

TRAILS

A Passion for Politics and Play Nathan Arundel ’23 is captivated by the beauty and utility of buildings, streets, and parks, and how they shape our lives. A junior architecture major at Washington University in St. Louis, Nathan spent the past summer pursuing both passions. After classes ended in May, Nathan helped construct a dollhouse for Exhibit Columbus, an event that celebrates the outsized influence Columbus, Indiana, had on the modernist architecture movement. The three-story structure pays homage to Alexander Girard, one of the most important fabric and textile artists of the 20th century, who contributed to Columbus’s visual landscape. The dollhouse, named Inside/Out, takes Girard’s interior designs and brings them outdoors for public viewing. Then, in June, Nathan left his artistic endeavors for public policy as an intern for Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia. Nathan researched the hurdles Virginians face in buying a home and receiving rental assistance. The Washington, DC, resident also designed infographics and drafted a letter to constituents that outlined Warner’s initiatives to make housing more affordable. As he nears graduation, Nathan says he has no plans to focus on just one pursuit. “It may seem like an unusual combination of interests, but there is a sphere where architecture, urban design, and housing policy coalesce,” Nathan says. “Potomac did a great job of encouraging us to try new things, follow our curiosity, and be OK with ourselves if it didn’t work out. Without Potomac, I don’t know if I would have explored so many different things.” Cort Morgan, chair of The Potomac School’s K-12 Art Department, played a pivotal role in fostering Nathan’s nuanced understanding of the built environment. The college student recalls one assignment in which he built a house on a tree branch, forcing him to design around the branch’s natural curves. Nathan also remembers Morgan’s more practical challenge of converting a shipping container into a livable space. “I went into architecture thinking about how fun it would be to build whatever I wanted,” says Nathan, who took an architecture class with Morgan all four years at the Upper School. “Mr. Morgan showed me that architects need critical thinking skills to help solve real problems.” The two continue to keep in touch. Nathan gives his former teacher updates on his projects, and Morgan visited St. Louis over the summer to meet up with Nathan and learn more about Washington University’s architecture program. “Mr. Morgan opened up a whole new world for me,” Nathan says. “It’s been nice now to share my architecture endeavors with him.”

—Marisa Demers

Azzi Fudd ’21 co-hosts the podcast Fudd Around and Find Out

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I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y K AT H RY N R AT H K E

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Class Notes Alex Joel writes, “I’m happy to share that I recently started as a James C. Gaither Junior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, working with the Russia and Eurasia Program.”

’22

2022

Bunny Cameron fcameron@colgate.edu Clay Socas robert.d.socas.26@dartmouth.edu

Celia Barabanov reports, “I am excited to share my recent essay, ‘Victimización y rebeldía de la figura femenina en El otro cielo y Rayuela,’ (https://bit.ly/48fZUOo) on the role of women in the work of one of Latin America’s greatest writers, Julio Cortázar, published in the literary magazine Boca ’e loba in June. A big thank-you to Professor Irina Feldman at Middlebury College and everyone who supported me in this work!” Charlotte Krilla writes, “I’m excited to share that I’ve recently completed my spring and summer internships with the Government Affairs Team at the Council on Foreign Relations and the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies, respectively. It was fascinating to support CFR’s engagement on Capitol Hill and contribute to the development of the Economic Security Task Force. At the Perry Center, I was able to deepen my understanding of international security and defense through transnational and bilingual coursework and collaborative research. To conclude my internship, I completed on Latin American narcotrafficking using West Africa as a transit point, a subject in which I was able to combine my regional interests in the Global South. I am grateful for the opportunity to have completed this research in such a supportive environment and look forward to continuing my research as I advance my French comparative thesis on Morocco and Mauritania during my last year at the University of Virginia.”

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Charlotte Krilla ’22 at the conclusion of her William J. Perry Center research project

2023

’24

Mika Dewar msdewar23@gmail.com Shelby Willcox shelbswillcox16@gmail.com

2024

Paige Ramsey paige_r@icloud.com

Natalia Vilela shares, “Recently, I got the opportunity to go to Japan during spring break with my Engineering in Society study abroad class. It was such an amazing experience, and I’m so glad I’ve been able to travel so much in my first year at USC.”

2025

Kate Choi kathrynjchoi@gmail.com Meredith Vorndran mvorndran@potomacschool.org

Hey Class of 2025! Kate and Meredith, your Class Correspondents, will be reaching out in early 2026 for the spring issue. Let’s pack your section with updates and make it the biggest, boldest one yet!

Natalia Vilela ’24 (right) in Tokyo, Japan, last March

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D ON’ T SEE YOUR CLAS S YEAR?

Class Notes is the most popular and widely read section of The Term. It provides a forum for alumni to share their news, from professional accomplishments and accolades to marriages, births, and anything else that fellow alums might find interesting. Thank you for sharing your updates! This section would not be possible without the leadership of our class correspondents, who play a vital role in helping their classmates maintain a lifelong connection with Potomac. Throughout the year, they gather news and photos for the fall and spring issues of The Term. So when you get an email calling for news, please make it a priority! You can send your notes directly to your class correspondent, whose contact information is listed at the top of your class year. If no class correspondent is listed, please send your information to term@potomacschool.org. If your class does not have a class correspondent and you would like to fill that role, please contact Laura Miller, director of alumni relations, at (703) 749-6356 or lmiller@potomacschool.org.

IN MEMORIAM

Michael Anthony ’96

Louise “Beebe” Graham ’52

Brother of Peter Anthony ’01

Daughter of Trustee Emeritus Elizabeth Graham; sister of Polly Graham Coreth ’54, Katherine “Terry” Graham ’61, and Susan “Susie” Graham ’68; and mother of Charles Hayes ’77 and Louise “Breckie” Hayes-Snow ’79

Sally Bedell ’24 Daughter of Rachel and Jeff Bedell and sister of Maisy Bedell ’27

Alison “Ally” Bean Birney ’44

Jane Casey Hughes ’52

Sister-in-law of Agnes “Bitsy” Birney Hood ’35

Sister of John Casey ’54, Joseph “Joe” Casey ’56, Constance “Connie” Casey ’60, and Caroline Casey ’67

Karen “Misa” Bretschneider ’03

Eliza Kellogg Klose ’55

Sister of Emi Bretschneider ’99

Sister of Roger Kellogg ’59 and Celina Kellogg Moore ’57

Sally “Ruby” Briggs ’63

Sheila O’Marah

Daughter of former faculty member Eleanor Briggs and sister of Charles Briggs ’58 and Christopher “Kit” Briggs ’62

Former Faculty Member

Anne Palms Chalmers ’57 Aunt of Margot Kabalkin ’04, Nicole Kabalkin ’07, and Emily Kabalkin ’11

Cynthia “Cindy” Parrott MacNair ’62 Sister of Susan Parrott Crary ’74

Cecil “Ceci” Carusi Pose ’49 Sister of Lalitte Carusi Smith ’54

Juliet “Judy” Gill Davis ’44 Mother of Edward “Ted” Davis ’69, Nina Davis ’69, and Jennifer Davis ’81

Marjorie “Marnie” DeWitt Robertson ’46

Jane Wyatt Dickerson ’68

Elizabeth “Lally” Graham Weymouth ’58

Sister of Elizabeth W. Dickerson ’64 and Ann Dickerson Pillion ’66, and John F. Dickerson ’74

Daughter of Katharine Meyer Graham ’30

Leo Endler Former Staff Member

Sister of Calvin “Sonny” DeWitt ’47

Belinda Winslow ’60 Sister of Terry Winslow ’58 and aunt of Alexandra “Alex” Harvey ’73

Sarah “Sally” Gamble Epstein Trustee Emeritus and mother of David Epstein ’68, James Epstein ’69, Richard “Dickie” Epstein ’73, Miles Epstein ’75, and Sarah “Sally Anne” Epstein ’78

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ALUMNI EVENTS

CHEERS TO THE CLAS S OF 2025 Congratulations to all 122 members of the Class of 2025, who were officially inducted into The Potomac Alumni Association at the annual PreUnion event in May. Director of Alumni Relations Laura Miller welcomed the soon-to-be graduates at a celebratory lunch in the Ramsey Auditorium, encouraging them to remain active and engaged as alumni through leadership roles, class correspondence, and participation in events. “Soon, you’ll all be spread out around the country. I can’t wait to see the various paths you take. I know that everyone will be doing incredibly interesting things, and I hope you will all stay connected, now and beyond,” she said. As the Class of 2025 prepares for its next adventures, we are delighted to welcome Kate Choi and Meredith Vorndran as class correspondents, and we thank them for stepping into this important leadership role.

CAPITAL CONNEC TIONS IN BLO OM May 2025 Alumni and past parents came together atop 1333 New Hampshire Avenue for the DC-area Spring in the City celebration. With panoramic rooftop views and perfect spring weather, the event brought together alumni from across generations, past parents, and favorite faculty for an evening of lively conversation. The event was hosted by the Alumni Governing Council, led by Catherine Kahl Linskey ’09, Lauren Wackerle Hardison ’12, and Stephen Gavula ’01, along with committee members Michael Amann ’04, Shannon Gopaul Balser ’01, Hamilton Brooks ’18, Lele Chappell ’07, Mariah Chappell ’12, Malcolm Dilley ’07, Dan Doty ’00, Brendan Dwyer ’15, Claire Figel ’13, Stephen Garibaldi ’13, Bridgett Hyde ’19, Anna Laws ’14, Gabriel Miller ’16, Ellen Overstreet Helvey ’11, Gillian Price ’15, and JP Young ’15. We are also grateful to the Past Parent Host Committee, Anna and Jim Garibaldi, Yvette and Eric Jackson, Jennifer and Jim Rooney, and Kim and Rex Wackerle, whose leadership and generosity helped make the evening truly memorable.

BIG APPLE , BRIGHT CONNEC TIONS New York City alumni gathered at New York Vintners in mid-May for Spring in the City, a festive evening hosted by Head of School John Kowalik alongside longtime faculty members Tracy Swecker Jaeger and Weezie Parsons Parry. The evening drew a dynamic mix of alumni from the 1980s through the 2020s, who reconnected over cocktails, conversation, and plenty of laughter. Special thanks to our host committee, CeCe Conner ’10, Isabelle Conner ’09, Summer Delaney ’11, Gingy Dixon ’12, Jonique Elligan ’85, Helene Falkoff ’20, Amir Jones ’15, Darien Killebrew ’18, Mark Kington ’12, Michelle Miller ’20, and Eric Rosenthal ’03, for making this night such a success.

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LETTER FROM ALUMNI OFFICE L A U R A M I L L E R Director of Alumni Relations lmiller@potomacschool.org

SP OTLIGHT ON ALYS ON CAMBRID GE ’97 May 2025 The Potomac community turned out at the Kennedy Center to cheer on Alyson Cambridge in her standout performance in Porgy and Bess with the Washington National Opera. With a special ticket block reserved for alumni and friends, the evening offered both a world-class cultural experience and a chance to celebrate one of Potomac’s most accomplished artists. Alyson’s commanding stage presence and critically acclaimed voice made it a night to remember. Following the performance, the Alumni Office hosted a private after-party where attendees had the opportunity to meet Alyson, take photos, and hear more about her remarkable career.

CRACKING THE CAREER CODE IN AN AI WORLD July 2025 College-aged alumni tuned in for Internships, AI, and the Career Clock, a virtual session led by nationally recognized career coach Lesley Mitler. The program pulled back the curtain on how AI is changing recruiting and hiring, from résumé screening to interview prep. Alumni heard candid advice on what employers value most now: digital savvy, strong communication skills, and the right timing. With tailored guidance for both college students and recent college graduates, the event gave participants an edge in navigating today’s fast-moving job market.

Stay Connected! /PotomacPanther

@potomacalumni The Potomac School Alumni Association Professional Networking Group

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Want to know what’s coming up? Scan the QR code to visit the alumni website and check out the full schedule of upcoming events.

The Potomac community is thriving! Reunion 2025 brought incredible energy back to campus, and we are excited to carry that momentum forward. With students settling into a new school year, the Alumni Governing Council (AGC) is preparing a full slate of programs and networking, social, and educational events that will strengthen alumni connections. At the same time, we are reexamining and updating our Strategic Roadmap to ensure it reflects the needs and aspirations of our alumni today. This effort will guide us as we expand opportunities for engagement, deepen connections across generations, and shape the work of the AGC in the years ahead. The AGC’s work is made possible through the commitment of its leaders. Our Executive Committee includes President Catherine Kahl Linskey ’09, Vice President Lauren Wackerle Hardison ’12, and Secretary Stephen Gavula ’01. They are joined by council members Charlotte Gerchick Alton ’12, Michael Amann ’04, Shannon Gopaul Balser ’01, Lele Chappell ’07, India Cutler ’17, Malcolm Dilley ’07, Dan Doty ’00, Claire Figel ’13, Ellen Overstreet Helvey ’11, Bridgett Hyde ’19, Anna Laws ’14, Amelia Mazloom ’18, Gabriel Miller ’16, Gillian Price ’15, Claire Robertson ’04, Griffith Roberts Roth ’06, Kathleen Smith Barnard ’11, and JP Young ’15. We are also fortunate to have Board of Trustees liaisons Stefanie Thomas Martin ’03 and Sarah Murphy Starr ’99, along with student representatives Armaan Sethi ’26, student body president, and Avi Agrawal ’26, senior class president. The Term showcases the impact of Potomac alumni in their fields and communities. If you have news to share or want to highlight a project, accomplishment, or story, we’d love to hear from you. And if you are interested in contributing to the AGC’s work, please reach out. Your involvement helps carry Potomac’s spirit forward.

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CROSSROADS

When the Ground Shifts Navigating Lifequakes with Courage and Clarity B Y

S A R A H - N E L L

W A L S H

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“Lifequakes” are significant and unexpected shifts in the trajectory of your life—moments that initially feel devastating but, in hindsight, become catalysts for transformation. Although when you’re living through one, it rarely feels poetic. In 2018, I was a partner at an AmLaw 100 firm. From the outside, my life looked perfect: a successful career, loving family, and CV I was proud of. But inside, I didn’t feel fulfilled. Something felt missing. Lifequake: I became a foster parent. On a bitter January night, two-year-old twins arrived at my home with nothing but clothes on their backs—and turned my world upside down. They smelled so bad that after three baths, I was still gagging. Still, on the worst night of their lives, they laughed joyfully at our dogs. That sound gave me courage and hope. That first month, I cried myself to sleep, bruised from holding them as they rode the monsters and worked through trauma. My perfectly curated life evaporated, and my imperfections were fully visible. I wasn’t sure if I was enough, could do enough, could love enough. Spoiler: I was. I did. I can. The twins broke me open and showed me what I’m capable of. For that, I am forever grateful. When they were abruptly taken from our home, I was gutted. Returning to my law practice, I was different. A career that once fit perfectly, now felt like a dress two sizes too small. I didn’t know what came next, but I couldn’t spend the next 20 years practicing law. I only knew I still wanted to collaborate with brilliant colleagues, solve hard problems, and serve as a trusted advisor.

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The Term

Lifequake: I quit my job and founded Wayfinders, LLC— an executive coaching firm. To reframe that decision from “crazy” to “brave,” I reminded myself that I already had the hard skills: managing a P&L, marketing, networking, synthesizing information. I also had the soft skills: courage, curiosity, perseverance, presence. Everything I’d learned so far, I’d use as a coach entrepreneur. In February 2020, I completed my training and achieved a full client roster. Lifequake: The pandemic. Suddenly, I was many things at once: mother, teacher, IT, cook, and business owner. Five clients canceled their contracts. I wasn’t sure my business would survive; I contemplated going back to law. Spoiler: I have to pinch myself. I have a thriving business. I love my life. I’ve experienced at least three lifequakes since 2020, because reinvention rarely follows a straight path. These explosive turning points have forged me like iron in the fire. Some were years in the making. Some came without warning. But each one brought me closer to the person I want to be. Here’s what I’ve learned: • Reflective practices anchor you in the storm. Meditation, journaling, gratitude, walking—whatever quiets your mind and increases self-awareness. These tools ground you during volatility. • The middle is always messy. If you are used to being in control, this can feel unbearable. Every moment is preparing you for what comes next. • Change happens slowly, then all at once. The origins of change often reveal themselves only in hindsight, which is why history (and your own story) is worth studying. • Action begets clarity. Intelligent people fall into analysis paralysis. Take the next right step, even if you don’t know where it leads. • There’s no perfect moment to make a bold change. But sometimes, the life you’re craving only reveals itself after a shakeup. • If you’re starting to sense the Sarah-Nell tremors of a lifequake—even if it Walsh ’97 is an feels disruptive or “crazy”—trust executive coach, it. You are braver than you think. former attorney, And the end result may be better and Founder of than your wildest dreams. Wayfinders, LLC

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