KIT
ROEPER COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
FORENSICS STATE CHAMPS
Turning Individual Voices into Team Triumph
2014 SOCCER STATE CHAMPS
Reflections from a Soccer Champ
CITIZENSHIP IN THE CLASSROOM
Developing Connections Early On
KIT
ROEPER COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
Through the latest school news, achievements, and stories, Keeping In Touch connects the Roeper community—current members and alumni—by celebrating the unique spirit that unites us all.
VOLUME 18, ISSUE 1
PUBLISHER
KARI KRESS
EDITOR
JENNY IRVINE
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
CAROLYN BORMAN
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
JACK WILLIAMS
CONTRIBUTORS
DENITA BANKS-SIMS
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
SCOTT CARMONA
ASSISTANT TO THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
CHRISTOPHER FEDERICO
HEAD OF SCHOOL
MEIRA GABLE ’26
ALANA GLASS
BOARD CHAIR
LAURA MOORE
ASSISTANT FORENSICS COACH
HOLLIS PERRY ’25
AMBER WEBB
STAGE I TEACHER
MAX WHIPPLE ’14
SHANI YAPA-KIMPSON
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS & ANNUAL FUND
CONTACT US
EMAIL ADDRESS CHANGES TO paige.wilson@roeper.org
EMAIL ALUMNI NEWS TO shani.yapa-kimpson@roeper.org
Read KIT online at www.roeper.org/ community/roeper-community.
The Roeper School @theroeperschool
members of the 2024 Forensics State
Front Cover features
Championship team.
FALL FUN AT
Roeperfest
From rock climbing and cute therapy dogs to a dunk tank and student musical performances, this year’s fall festival was a blast. And Head of School Christopher Federico was back again with a bagpipe performance. Thankfully, the rain held off for a fantastic day filled with joy, games, and plenty of delicious food on our Bloomfield Hills campus.
PUBLISHER
KARI KRESS
“Keep in touch.” That memorable phrase from Mariann Hoag— one of Roeper’s greatest stewards and long-time manager of the school’s financial aid program—became the inspiration behind Keeping In Touch (KIT), which launched in 1983.
Now known as KIT, the magazine is transitioning from the Development Department to Communications and Marketing, marking an exciting new chapter. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Development team, especially to the recently retired Bonnie Schemm, for their years of dedication and hard work on this publication. As we take the torch, we hope to make them proud.
I’d like to extend a special thank you to Jenny Irvine, who graciously agreed to stay on as editor, and to Jack Williams for his outstanding creative vision. With their leadership and the support of Carolyn Borman and many contributors to this issue, we’ve crafted a community magazine that will continue to connect and inspire our readers.
We sincerely hope you enjoy the fresh design and stories within and look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Cheers, kari.kress@roeper.org
Got a story idea or something you’d like to see in print? Drop me a line at kari.kress@roeper.org
6 7 8
STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS
Alum Alana Glass reflects on her Roeper journey from middle schooler to board chair.
10
BUILDING OUR FUTURE
Denita Banks-Sims shares ways community members collectively work to sustain the school.
FORENSICS STATE CHAMPS
Students Hollis Perry and Meira Gable illuminate the team’s path to success.
FORENSICS COACH OF THE YEAR
Dan Jacobs named MSCI Middle Level Coach of the Year.
12 15
CITIZENSHIP IN THE CLASSROOM
Learn how citizenship looks in the classroom from tots to teens.
GLORY DAYS
On the 10th anniversary of the Soccer State Championship win, alum Max Whipple reflects on what makes a winning team.
17 18
HALL OF FAME
Save the Date: Join us to honor our student athletes.
50TH REUNION WEEKEND
Classes of 1974, 1975, and 1976 reunite for a trip down memory lane.
Educating and inspiring gifted students to think as individuals and to engage as a community with compassion for each other and this world.
STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS
BOARD CHAIR ALANA GLASS
When I first walked through the doors of The Roeper School as an eighth grader, I had no idea how profoundly the experience would shape my future. It wasn’t solely a gifted education—it was a transformative journey that helped me find my voice and empowered me to explore the world with curiosity and confidence.
I clearly remember the car ride home after my first day. My older brother and I exchanged stories about our new classmates. Despite being in different grades and classes, we found ourselves in a shared environment where students spoke freely, asked insightful questions, and embraced a genuine love of learning.
I was in awe.
Eventually, I settled in and found my way. I joined the forensics team and ventured into athletics— picking up a basketball for the first time—and when I graduated with the Class of 1997, it was with a deep sense of pride and accomplishment that I earned a full academic scholarship at the University of Minnesota.
As I reflect on the past thirty years, what I know for sure is that Roeper has and will always be home.
In 2018, I had the privilege of returning to Roeper as an elected alumni constituency trustee, and I am equally proud to now serve as board chair. In this role, I am deeply honored to give back to a school that has given me much and to stand on the shoulders
of giants—those who built this incredible community and led it with vision, compassion, and dedication.
George and Annemarie Roeper’s groundbreaking approach to gifted education laid the foundation for our school’s enduring legacy. The tireless efforts of past board chairs and trustees, whose contributions are woven into the very fabric of our school, have guided us as we build upon their impactful work. Their wisdom and leadership have strengthened our school community, allowing us to carry forward the vision of educating students who, in turn, will be Citizens of the World.
As I step into my new role, I want to acknowledge two remarkable leaders we recently lost: Doug Winkworth, former Board Chair (1994–2005), and Chuck Webster, former Head of School (1990–1998). Doug’s thoughtful stewardship and Chuck’s steadfast leadership left an undeniable imprint on Roeper’s history. Their memories and contributions remain close to our hearts, and we are deeply grateful for their lasting impact.
To stand on the shoulders of giants is to honor the legacy of the leaders who came before us with the same forward-thinking spirit. The Board of Trustees and I remain committed to leading purposefully and ensuring that there will always be a Roeper School to come home to.
DENITA BANKS-SIMS
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
FORMER BOARD CHAIRS BUILDING OUR FUTURE
George Roeper
Thomas Waters
Ben Hamilton & Craig Fairbrother
Thomas Waters
Robert Hague
Maxine Frankel
John Steward
Robert Hague
Leslie Garvie
Lorenzo Freeman
Daniel Braunstein
Lorenzo Freeman
Mary Ellen Gurewitz
Doug Winkworth
Lori Lutz ‘75
Steve Milbeck
Buck Baker
Ashley Lowe
Clay Thomas
1941–1976 1976–1978 Nov 1978 Nov–1979 Mar 1979 Mar–1983
1984–1986 Mar 1986 Mar–1986 Jun 1986 Jun–1987 1987–1988 1988–1989 May 1989 May–1989 Jul 1989 Aug–1990 1990–1994 1994–2005 2005–2008 2008–2014 2014–2018 2018–2021 2021–2024
WELCOME 2024-25 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
For over 80 years, Roeper has partnered with individuals and organizations committed to gifted education. Together, we celebrate and sustain our mission and philosophy.
The Development and Constituent Relations Office is privileged to steward these vital partnerships, advancing Roeper’s priorities—and occasionally bringing a dream or two to life.
Our focus is wide-ranging and ambitious:
Annual Fund Campaign 2024–25
MOSAIC Auction 2025 Alumni Relations
Foundation and Corporate Relations Endowments and Planned Giving
Capital Campaigns for Facilities and Scholarships
Grandparents’ & Special Persons’ Day
Martin Luther King, Jr. Candlelight Walk
Founders’ Day
At the heart of our efforts is a commitment to what makes Roeper unique. As pioneers in gifted education, we offer a curriculum that fosters intellectual curiosity and creativity while emphasizing holistic development and social justice. We strive to create a diverse community by providing financial aid—twice the national average for independent schools—to ensure an equitable environment for all. Roeper continually introduces innovative programs for gifted learners, including support for twice-exceptional students. Our engaged alumni network maintains Roeper’s legacy, while our supportive environment allows students to explore their passions.
Together, we can ensure Roeper thrives for future generations.
For more info or to contribute, contact:
DENITA BANKS-SIMS
Director of Development and Constituent Relations
denita.banks-sims@roeper.org
Thank you for your support!
We invite you to partner with our Development and Constituent Relations team:
SHANI
Director
YAPA-KIMPSON ’08
of Alumni Relations and Annual Fund
JENNY IRVINE Events and Community
Outreach Coordinator
PAIGE WILSON ’08
Stewardship and Gifts Associate
Back row: Cheryl Blau, Amy-Beth Fleischer, Laura Castleman, Roshan Shah, Kevin Carlson, Mykolas Rambus, Andrew Blechman. Front row: Jameel Smith, Kim Adams House, Sujana Gundlapalli, Alana Glass, Elisabeth Stayer, Natasha Webster, Anna Stuntz. Not pictured: Kenny Miller, Joy Lawson Davis, Anna Kohn, Steven Scott, Jeff Stafeil, Beth Vens, Julian Wong.
2024
FORENSICS
STATE CHAMPS
CITIZENSHIP OF SPEECH
BY HOLLIS PERRY ’25
(PICTURED ABOVE)
& MEIRA GABLE ’26
(PICTURED RIGHT)
It’s 6:30 am, and we’re loading everything on the bus for the seventh time this year and heading to Battle Creek with twelve other high school students and our coaches. Even though each of us is performing individual pieces, no one is alone. Camaraderie can be found everywhere—whether it is sharing our latest playlist, eating home-baked snacks, or doing a lastminute practice run. This is because WE are Roeper Forensics. And though we come from different backgrounds, friend groups, and grades, none of that matters here. Here, we are a team.
So, what exactly IS forensics? At its core, forensics is the art of public speaking, but Roeper Forensics is much more than that. The lessons that come from being on the team
mean a lot more than those learned from memorizing and performing a piece. Forensics teaches life lessons that benefit way beyond Roeper, such as improved public speaking ability, gained confidence, and learning how to be resolved in your own voice.
Forensics also encourages students to approach topics that we might be afraid to tackle or not know how to. From personal experience, forensics isn’t just acting but can honestly be looked at as a form of therapy. It provides a positive way to process any emotions and worries you might be dealing with, knowing you have the support of your fellow teammates and coaches to work through those feelings.
The main goal of Roeper Forensics is not trophies, but self-improvement. Team members are focused not only on how to become better speakers, but also how to become good teammates and support others. Throughout the season, we give each other feedback and suggestions on our pieces and attend each other’s rounds when we don’t make semis or finals cuts. Most importantly, we are genuinely excited and proud of each other not just when a trophy is involved, but whenever someone on the team has a breakthrough on their piece or a really good performance. And as a bonus, when everyone collectively works on improving their own material AND helping others, sometimes the result is even a team trophy or state championshp win.
At the Michigan Interscholastic Forensics
Association (MIFA) State Tournament last May, no one on our team was even thinking about winning the 2024 State Championship. This is because we view States as the culmination of all our hard work over the past year. It is a time to celebrate, from final practices the night before at the hotel to cheers and high-fives in the hallways during the event. By the time we were finished and waiting for awards, each one of us had already accomplished our goals—whether that was having the best round of the year, giving the ultimate emotionally connected performance, or making sure the audience understood the importance of our piece. And when the surprising announcement came that Roeper had won the MIFA Class CD State Championship, we could proudly say we did it as a team—one that celebrates each other’s accomplishments as much as we celebrate our own.
After all the cumulative effort put in last season, winning the trophy felt amazing, but what mattered most was both the individual and team growth we achieved along the way. Roeper Forensics has always been focused on lifting each other up and supporting the community.
Moving into this year, we hope to foster even greater community between our teams and campuses. Both of us joined forensics because Upper School team members visited our classes when we were students at the Lower School, and it is our hope to continue to foster this community collaboration for future Roeper students.
Forensics fosters a culture of interdependence connecting students, building life-long skills, and inspiring alumni to give back.
JOHNATHAN DINNEWETH ’24
FORENSICS CONGRATULATIONS
It’s this mutually supportive community Dan has nurtured that makes Roeper Forensics so special.
This past May, Forensics Coach Dan Jacobs was awarded the 2024 Michigan Speech Coaches, Inc. (MSCI) Middle Level Coach of the Year. This honor follows Dan’s 2022 induction into the MSCI Hall of Fame. Both awards are a testament to Dan’s impact on the forensic speech community, both at home and across the state. Dan has been coaching forensics for over thirty years, twenty-seven as the head coach of the Middle School and Upper School Forensics teams. These teams have produced hundreds of Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association (MIFA) state finalists, dozens of state champions, and recently MIFA Class CD State Champions.
These accolades, however, do not fully encompass the true success of Roeper Forensics. In a post-award interview Dan explained, “I am hard-pressed to think of experiences more life-changing than giving young people a series of mutually supportive communities—their own team; friends from other teams; individual attention and
coaching; recognition for their hard work; and a broad community that welcomes them even after they graduate—that all serve as a means to help them find their own voice.”
It’s this mutually supportive community Dan has
Dan Jacobs named MSCI Middle Level Coach of the Year.
nurtured that makes Roeper Forensics so special. It’s a community that encourages everyone to participate, from students to parents to fellow teachers. Dan’s selflessness motivates those involved to give back, as evidenced by the many alums who come back and volunteer long after graduation. Some former students and parents have even joined Dan as forensics coaches, including Jaffar Boumediene, Roeper teacher Ben Fisher ’17, and me, mother of Katarina Moore ’18. They—along with thousands of other students, parents, and fellow speech coaches—all point to one common thread that defines Roeper Forensics: Dan Jacobs, and the love, commitment, and passion he shows for the community he has helped grow.
We want to thank Dan for being the cornerstone of both Roeper Forensics and the greater speech community in Michigan.
Congratulations!
BY LAURA MOORE ASSISTANT FORENSICS COACH & ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
The 2023–24 Upper School Forensics Team won the Class CD Championship at the MIFA State Tournament on May 4, 2024. The cumulative scores of all 13 team members contributed to their first-place finish.
Back row: Liv Mardiros, Meira Gable, Kaitlyn Gruber, Coach Ben Fisher, Neel Grover, Jeannelyn Newsome, Johnathan Dinneweth, Hollis Perry, Cosmo Steffke, Vaughn Roycraft, Justice Broughton, Anna Stuntz, Caleb Hoover, Coach Laura Moore. Front row: Coach Dan Jacobs, Eli Miller.
LOWER SCHOOL
Engaging students with this beautiful environment is crucial.
CITIZENSHIP FOR THE LITTLES
Citizenship is a multifaceted concept that evolves throughout different stages of life.
Ultimately, we are all citizens of various communities, and our participation in these groups is vital. As George Roeper famously stated, “I am a citizen of the world.” Our goal is to make this idea accessible and meaningful for all learners.
So, how can we help our students, from ages two to eighteen, recognize their citizenship within the Roeper community? It’s essential for them to understand that
they can forge meaningful connections during their time on campus and that these connections hold great value. Engaging students with this beautiful environment is crucial for the long-term success of our school.
This year, our Lower School embarked on a citizenship project designed to illustrate how a small action can lead to significant change. After reading The Circles All Around Us by Brad Montague, students collaborated with their Middle and Upper School homeroom buddies to create initiatives focused on caring for specific areas of the school—from Hindstrum to the Hill House to the Trojan Horse. Together, they shared stories,
created artwork, and recorded poems, deepening their connection to these spaces.
From these reflections, we developed service projects aimed at preserving our school environment for current and future generations. As citizens of Roeper, we believe in the importance of this place and recognize our responsibility to care for it. Through these activities, we instill a sense of stewardship and belonging, empowering students to become active participants in their community.
BY AMBER WEBB STAGE I TEACHER
WHAT DOES MEAN TO YOU? CITIZENSHIP
MIDDLE/UPPER SCHOOL
KAVIN 9TH GRADE
“Being a citizen in an educational community means actively participating in the well-being of the community. [It] also means taking responsibility for your actions and creating a good environment . . . [and] working together to create a supportive educational environment.”
6TH GRADE DILARA
“When I think of citizenship at Roeper, I think of a community that feels like home because Roeper is such a welcoming place. The people here are not just classmates and teachers, they are family. Another thing I think about when I think about Roeper is the freedom to be independent and responsible. The staff and teachers here trust you to make the right choice and because they trust me, I trust them. I trust that they know what they are doing, and even if it doesn’t make sense to me at first, it always works out. I am very grateful to be a citizen in this supportive community.”
KRISTY 12TH GRADE
“To be a citizen in an educational community, you must be able to give and take. You must be able to respect those around you while also creating boundaries. While you may not agree with [others], you must listen to the people within your educational community.”
11TH GRADE JAYDEN
“Being a citizen in an educational community means fulfilling your responsibilities. For a community to function there must be an unwritten mutual agreement for citizens to practice mutual respect, commit to learning and personal growth, and have a goal to make the community a better place.”
10TH ANNIVERSARY
GLORY DAYS
My involvement with Roeper Soccer was a significant and rewarding experience that has shaped my personal and professional growth. As an athlete, I witnessed a notable improvement in my skills, but the most valuable lessons I learned were in the areas of leadership and teamwork. The 2014 State Championship victory was a memorable highlight, not only for our team but for the entire school community. Our success inspired younger students to strive for excellence, much like the teams before us did for our generation.
Roeper’s inclusive “no cut” policy in athletics creates a supportive and welcoming environment for all athletes. During our championship season, the team demonstrated a commitment to celebrating each other’s achievements, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation. Most importantly, the team and community celebrated everyone’s accomplishments similarly, regardless of playing time.
The essential skills I learned through Roeper Athletics— teamwork, leadership, collaboration, and perseverance—continue to benefit me throughout my life. The opportunity to work towards a common goal with a diverse group of individuals was both challenging and rewarding, but the friendships and skills I developed along the way continue to stay with me ten years after our championship run. I encourage the next generation of Roughriders to explore opportunities to work as a team, whether it be Roeper Athletics or another discipline.
BY MAX WHIPPLE ’14 CAPTAIN & MIDFIELDER STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SOCCER TEAM
PHOTO BY JULIE FROST
PHOTOS BY JULIE FROST
HALL OF FAME
There are moments in life when athletes reach the pinnacle: when teams come together, and all accept their roles in the process; when teams become like families and bond with the community; when they prepare and dedicate themselves to a lofty goal and work together to achieve it. Join us on DECEMBER 13, 2024, as Roeper Basketball takes on Clawson, and we host our Hall of Fame induction ceremony for the 2014 Roeper Soccer State Championship team to celebrate this perfect moment of athletic accomplishment.
The journey to the 2014 State Championship began in the fall of 2013. The catalyst driving the championship team was the loss experienced in the 2013 semi-finals, one win away from the championship game. Coach Ed Sack shares what that loss meant to this eventual state championship team, “1000% that loss led to the growth and toughness we needed to have the confidence during the championship run. We were reacting to teams in 2013, in 2014. We took control of every single game with a game plan that we stuck to and very few teams found a way to compete against.”
Senior Captain Michael Matthews adds, “It’s a good feeling that finally our hard work and working as a team took us to where we wanted to be. It’s amazing!” Max Whipple, Roeper Hall of Famer, recalls the effect it had on the Roeper Community, “Our team had a large number of seniors that had been at Roeper for over a decade, so for our last game to be a victory was awesome. It was great to see the community come together.”
On Hall of Fame Night, the Roeper community and members of the 2014 team will once again come together to salute this memorable run. The Booster Club will provide refreshments, and a ceremony will take place between the varsity basketball games. We hope you can join us and be a part of this annual community event recognizing the finest athletes and teams in Roeper’s athletics history.
BY SCOTT CARMONA ASSISTANT TO THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
50th REUNION
Roeper hosted a 50-year reunion on Saturday, October 26, for the classes of 1974, 1975, and 1976. The event was the result of dedicated efforts by the planning committee, which helped create a delightful and heartwarming gathering. Alumni reconnected over smiles, laughter, and engaging conversations, reminiscing about school days and rekindling old friendships. For many, this was an especially emotional occasion, as it marked the first time in nearly fifty years that they had seen one another or visited the school.
The reunion brought together over fifty guests, including alumni, their guests, current faculty and staff, and former teachers, for a full day of activities. The celebration kicked off with a Friday evening meet-and-greet at the Duke Lounge in Bloomfield Hills, setting the tone for the weekend.
Saturday’s main event began with a welcome lunch at the iconic Hill House on the Lower School campus. Guests were then given a tour of both campuses. A tribute was held to honor deceased classmates, faculty, and staff, followed by a walk through Roeper’s rich history showcasing the enduring values that connect generations of students, bridging past and present.
The festivities concluded with a dinner at Andiamo, where former teacher Dick Morrow was honored for his contributions and lasting impact on students’ lives.
The reunion was a beautiful celebration of lasting connections and shared memories, and the joy of the occasion is captured in the photos from the event. The magic of this gathering— after half a century—will undoubtedly be cherished by all who attended.
BY SHANI YAPA-KIMPSON DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
Alumni and guests gathered in the Assembly (n/k/a the Motor Skills Room) to reminisce.
Sander Davidson ’75 reconnects with former Athletic Director Sid Fox and his wife, Cynthia, at the alumni dinner.
Howard Lutz ’77, Fin Hunt (husband of Felice), and Felice Rosser ’74.
Led by Hobart Harris ’75, the group pays tribute to alumni who have passed away.
John Luttermoser ’75 and his wife, Ann Randall.
Alumni and guests outside the Hill House.
CLASSNOTES
ANN MARSH-SENIC ’89
competed in the Veteran Fencing World Championships held in Dubai. Her participation highlights her enduring dedication to fencing and represents her continued impact within the global fencing community. Friend and fellow Roeperian Sandra Chang ’89 accompanied Ann on her travels.
DEVAN EDWARDS ’22
Middle & Upper School teacher Patrick Harris connected with Devan Edwards at the Michigan Council of Teachers of English conference. Devan is pursuing a degree in English Language and Literature, with a minor in Gender & Women’s Studies, at Western Michigan University.
JAKE JANOWITZ ’17
recently opened Botany Birmingham, a boutique plant shop catering to indoor gardening enthusiasts of all tastes and styles. Offering a diverse selection of houseplants, the store provides a unique blend of greenery suitable for any space, from homes to offices. Jake’s passion for plants and design comes through in this new venture, making it a must-visit for the community.
PAIGE WILSON ’08
was highlighted in Lawrence Technological University’s Q3 newsletter. This feature showcases her impactful journey during the COVID pandemic, particularly her work with COBIT in finance and how her MBA prepared her for success in navigating this challenging period.
JUDGE QIANA LILLARD ’94 AND SANDRA SMITH-JOHNSON ’24
met at the 2017 State Bar of Michigan Young Lawyers Section mock trial event when Sandra was a sixth grader. Inspired by Qiana, Sandra began shadowing her as a Jr. Judge, fostering a strong mentor-mentee bond. This connection highlights the power of alumni networks. Here Qiana and Sandra are celebrating together this summer. Alumni connections truly make a difference!
JAKE MICKLEY ’08
and his wife Lyz are thrilled to announce the arrival of their baby boy Casey David Mickley born on September 13, 2024. Congratulations to the Mickley family on this joyful addition.
TINA KRYSINKSKI ’09
James Rose Dye was born on July 17, 2024, in Washington, DC to proud parents Tina Krysinski and Nick Dye.
DECEMBER 3
Make Roeper your top philanthropic priority and celebrate what makes our school exceptional. This year’s theme is Citizenship—a core value that shapes every student’s journey.
At Roeper, Citizenship means:
Embracing diversity to build a stronger community. Advocating for equity and justice.
Fostering global awareness and empathy.
Encouraging individual growth and autonomy.
Building connections through service and collaboration. Inspiring ethical leadership with integrity.
Your gift to the Annual Fund sustains these values and nurtures the next generation of engaged citizens— fulfilling George Roeper’s vision:
“I am a citizen of the world.”
Make your impact at www.roeper.org/giving
IN MEMORIAM CHUCK WEBSTER
CHUCK WEBSTER, HEAD OF SCHOOL 1990-1998
Chuck Webster, former Head of The Roeper School, passed away from glioblastoma on October 1, 2024, at age 76. A gifted educator, leader, storyteller, and devoted family man, Chuck’s impact was profound and lasting.
Born June 16, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, Chuck earned degrees in Linguistics from Oakland University. His passion for language, Shakespeare, and storytelling defined much of his life. Known for carrying a New York Times with him everywhere—even to prom—Chuck was a curious reader with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.
Chuck joined Roeper in 1979, serving for nineteen years as a teacher, Upper School Director, and Head of School. In 1998, Chuck left Roeper to found University High School of Indiana, continuing his educational legacy until his retirement in 2020. At Roeper, Chuck’s understanding of education aligned with the Roepers’ belief that learning is the essence of humanity. At George Roeper’s memorial in 1992, Chuck reflected: “For George, education was the theory of everything—psychology, philosophy, and science combined to imagine a fairer, freer, more compassionate world.”
Beyond education, Chuck loved walks with his dog Lizzy, summers on Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula, cheering on the Detroit Tigers and Red Wings, and spending time with family and friends.
The Roeper School extends its deepest condolences to Chuck’s wife of thirty-nine years, Nancy, and children, Rachael ’98 and Cullen ’07.
MICHAEL BILLINGTON ’82
We offer our deepest condolences to the friends and family of Michael Billington. Following a courageous battle of health challenges and chronic pain, Michael passed peacefully on June 13, 2024. His status as a former student and favored faculty member defined his tenure at Roeper.
If you wish to make a monetary donation in honor of Michael, he was a life-long lover of literature and requested donations to the American Library Association.
ELIZABETH PANZER ’76
Elizabeth Panzer passed away in December 2023. The celebrated and gifted harpist was devoted to contemporary and avant-garde music and, following her many years at Roeper, went on to study at the Manhattan School of Music. Her career highlights included collaboration with icons Julia Wolfe and John Cage among others. In 2012, she turned to the study of photography and was prominently featured in shows throughout the United States.
Among loving friends and family, she leaves her beloved sisters and fellow Roeper alumni Mary Panzer ’72 and Katie Panzer ’78.
BRIDGHETTE PARKER
Bridghette Parker, a beloved member of the Roeper community, passed away on November 14, 2024. Bridghette was a beacon of light, whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she encountered. For over two decades, she filled the main office on the Birmingham campus with warmth, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to students and colleagues.
Bridghette’s kindness knew no bounds. She was a steadfast supporter in the College Counseling Department, a chaperone on school trips, and always someone you could count on for a helping hand or a kind word. Her wisdom and calm dependability were pillars of strength for our school, and her absence leaves an irreplaceable void.
Though Bridghette had recently been on leave, her passing was sudden and heartbreaking. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her daughter Erica Parker ’13, son Jonathan Parker ’08, daughter-in-law Britany Hamilton ’10, and all her loved ones.
Bridghette’s memory will forever inspire us to live with the same compassion and generosity she shared so effortlessly with us. May we honor her legacy by carrying forward her spirit of kindness and service in our own lives. She will always be a cherished part of the Roeper family.
ROSANNE THOMPSON
The Roeper community mourns the loss of Rosanne Thompson, a beloved art teacher who dedicated 40 years to inspiring creativity and independent thought in her students. Rosanne, 87, passed away on November 11, 2024, surrounded by her family in Howards Grove, WI.
Born in Chicago, IL, Rosanne studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago before joining Roeper, where her passion for art and education touched hundreds of lives. She retired in 2007, leaving behind a legacy of nurturing artistic expression and a love for learning.
She is survived by her daughters Lisa Vihos ’77 and Illia Mazurek ’84, her beloved grandchildren Kaleb and Ella Mazurek and Owen Vihos-Hoover, and a host of extended family and friends.
DENZEL CANALES ’11
With profound sadness, we remember Denzel Canales ’11 who passed away on November 14, 2024. Denzel began his journey at Roeper in the Lower School, brightening the campus with his joy, laughter, and light. A remarkable student, gifted athlete, and friend, he inspired all who knew him. Despite a courageous battle with sickle cell disease, Denzel lived with resilience, strength, and an infectious spirit that touched countless lives. His legacy of love and compassion will forever be a guiding light for our community.
We extend our deepest condolences to his parents, Darin and Kimberly Canales, and his sister, Kiara Canales ’13. Denzel’s memory will live on in the hearts of countless Roeperians.
TOUCH POINT
This year, against the backdrop of an impending presidential election, we returned to school with a focus on citizenship, inspired by George’s famous words “I am a citizen of the world”.
Although inspiring, those words can also be a bit puzzling. Was George suggesting that he was a citizen of the world while others were not, perhaps because he was well-travelled, or spoke multiple languages, or had migrated from one country to another, or was endowed with some special insight from his life experiences?
Or was his point that we are all citizens of the world? And if so, what might that mean? Without a world government to vote for or world taxes to pay, how can one be a citizen of the world?
According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Citizenship is a unique bond that unites people around civic ideals.” Might there be certain ideals that we all share, irrespective of which passport we hold? Does identifying as a citizen (as it did during the French Revolution) suggest equality and a shared responsibility?
Perhaps to be a citizen of the world is to exhibit global competence, for example by:
• investigating the world beyond our immediate environment by examining issues of local, global, and cultural significance;
• recognizing, understanding, and appreciating the perspectives and world views of others;
• communicating ideas with diverse audiences by engaging in open, appropriate, and effective interactions across cultures; and
• taking action for collective well-being and sustainable development both locally and globally.1
Which actually sounds a lot like what we expect from Roeper graduates.
Perhaps being a citizen of the world is to exhibit global competence.
Taken altogether it seems that citizenship really consists in an agreement by each of us to follow the rules of the community and contribute to its wellbeing. In return, we benefit from being part of that community.
You don’t need to be on campus every day to make those contributions and enjoy those benefits. Let us know what you are up to, how you are contributing to the world as a current or former member of the Roeper community. Attend our community events, or maybe host one in your neck of the woods. (So far, I have met with alumni in New York, DC, and here in Detroit.) Follow us on social media and share our stories within your own community. Visit the school or our website to see how we continue to lead the field in providing a progressive gifted education. Contribute to the school’s development efforts so we can continue to make a Roeper education as accessible—in every sense of that word—as possible.
What we can all do, in the immortal words of Roeper stalwart Mariann Hoag, is take care not only of ourselves, but also take care of each other and this place. If we simply do that, we will be great citizens not only of Roeper and the United States (or whatever country we might be citizens of), but also the world.
Keep in touch!
BY CHRISTOPHER FEDERICO HEAD OF SCHOOL
APRIL 26 THE TREASURY
Save the Date for an unforgettable night. Join us for the MOSAIC Auction, featuring exciting live and silent auction items. Your participation helps fuel financial aid and scholarship for students and professional development for faculty and staff. Let’s come together to celebrate, connect, and support this program.
PERFORMING ARTS EVENTS 2024-25
November 14–17
Acheson Theater
December 11
CCB Gym
December 18
CCB Gym
January 20
CCB Gym
March 12
Acheson Theater
URINETOWN ROEPER THEATER CO. US
WINTER INSTRUMENTAL CONCERT M/US
WINTER DANCE & CHOIR COLLABORATIVE M/US
MLK CELEBRATION COLLABORATIVE
March 20–23
Acheson Theater
SENIOR THESIS DANCE CONCERT THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH ROEPER THEATER CO. MS
April 9
Acheson Theater
April 16
Acheson Theater
April 30–May 1
Acheson Theater
May 14
St. John’s Episcopal Church Royal Oak
May 21
CCB Gym
SPRING INSTRUMENTAL CONCERT ALL-SCHOOL
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Students marched for change at the Get Out the Vote rally in October, reminding us that this isn’t just about increasing voter turnout; it’s about voting for positive change. Stay connected with Roeper on social media to see what else is happening around campus and how you can get involved!
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