PENNINGTON

MAGAZINE
SPRING 2009

Photographer
Dan Marschka ‘74:
From Pennington to
Pakistan and Beyond
In This Issue
A New Space for Exploration
Essays on the Pennington Experience
Walking the Talk
Tuesdays with Mr. Parnos
Witnessing History
03 S T U DEN T/ CAMPUS L I FE

From the Desk of

Penny Townsend
 27 31 34 43

FEATURES 1 Cover Story: Through the Lens of

Dan Marschka ‘74
5 A New Space for Exploration
7 Essays on the Pennington Experience
21 Walking the Talk
25 Tuesdays with Mr. Parnos
31 Witnessing History

DEPARTMENTS 5
40
On Campus
Athletics
51 Alumni

The Pennington School Magazine is published by the Office of Development for alumni, parents, alumni parents, and friends of The
Pennington School. Editor: Deanna K.G. Ferrante. Assistant Editor: Julia Meneghin. Graphic Design: 168 Design. Printing: Prism Color.
Staff Writers: Deanna K.G. Ferrante, Lisa Houston, Maggie Kelly, A. Melissa Kiser, Joanne McGann, Julia Meneghin, Sally Friedman.
Staff Photography: Deanna K.G. Ferrante, Patrick Murphy ’80. Contributors: Mary Ellen Erdie, Matthew Goetting, Patrick Murphy ’80,
Tom Horsley. Subscribers receive one issue of The Pennington School Magazine per household. To request additional copies or to Product group from well-managed
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share comments or suggestions about this issue, please contact Deanna K.G. Ferrante at [email protected] or (609) 737-6121. recycled wood or fiber
www.fsc.org Cert no.SGS-COC-003570
©2009 The Pennington School. © 2009 Forest Stewardship Council
1 A P E N N IN GTON PRO FI L E

Through the lens

of dan marschka ’74
Photographer Dan Marschka’s Pennington first-hand experience through their time at
School experience gave his life focus – TPS that gave me the knowledge I needed
both figuratively and literally. Marschka to request a similar opportunity from my
describes himself as an adolescent who parents at the young age of fifteen.” Not to
was headed for trouble – a young man be left out, Marschka’s sister, Deanna, also
with boundless curiosity and creativity, took classes at The Pennington School.
but without a healthy outlet for personal
When asked what specifically captivated
expression. Marschka recognized he was
him as a student at The Pennington
starting down a difficult path, saying, “To
School, Marschka replies, “The personal
be blunt – I was finding trouble where I was
interaction of the instructors and the
at the time and knew that I was heading
students was the primary element. I
toward a dismal future. I understood
remember that I was full of energy and
there was a better way to advance my
easily distracted by so many influences.
curiosity and social experience in a more
The steady, balanced regimen of classes,
constructive manner. The Pennington
organized meals, and set study times on
School helped me discipline my life
the hall, religious services, activities and
through the close attention I received from
free time structured my life. The discipline
the staff and through the social structure in
that formed, funneling my energy, was the
the boarding school environment.”
main reason I became captivated by TPS,
Marschka came to The Pennington then and now.”
ABOVE: Amish men watch as
School through his brothers David ’67 and
a barn burns to the ground in
East Lampeter Township, PA. Douglas ’69. According to Marschka, “I had
 A P E N N I N G T O N PR O F ILE 2

Marschka also credits his fellow students with the know-it-all young man that I was.
with creating a familial atmosphere of They directed my energy and questioning
mutual support and friendship. The shared attitude toward my studies. The names
comradery and internationally diverse that come to mind are Mr. Burrowes for
student body were particularly influential guiding my philosophical compulsion, Mr.
for young Marschka. He remembers, Scancella for his wisdom relating to life
“Many of the students I met had been and mathematics, Mr. Ahn for his help with
through notable circumstances, such photo club and social activities, Mr. Parnos
as busy families, personal problems… for physics, his grilled kabobs and his
because of this, many of us became part quote that still rings in my ears, ‘Do good
of a wider Pennington family. A certain work now, play later.’” Marschka continues,
strength and appreciation formed from citing “Mrs. Assman for her direction in
this social experience that made me a chemistry, Mr. Burns for helping to bring
stronger, more independent person.” William Faulkner and so many other
authors alive for me, Mr. Roberts for his
While at Pennington, Marschka began
firm guidance, and Mr. Gaslevich for his
to channel his creative energy through
energy. I also remember many friends,
photography. “The seeds for my career
including Bob Alach, Brian Pryor, Chris
as a visual professional were formed
Holliday, George Holmes, Kathy Chan, Dan
while I was a student,” says Marschka,
Seyler and more.”
“not only by the obvious photography
club experience and yearbook work, but After leaving Pennington, Marschka
through my mathematics and physics attended Franklin and Marshall College for
studies which helped me appreciate how two years, also taking exchange courses
structure and design related to nature.” in photography at Millersville University.
He transferred to Rochester Institute of
Of his instructors, Marschka relates, “I BELOW: Maria makes tortillas.
Technology where he earned his B.S.
had many influential teachers. What I Honduras, January 2003,
degree. He worked on his first full-time Mennonite Central Committee
remember most was the patience they had
newspaper job at Pennsylvania’s photo, used with permission
03 S T U DEN T/ CAMPUS L I FE

ABOVE: Silhouetted against the Lewistown Sentinel from 1980 until into Egypt detailing orthodox programs
sky, a flock of gulls wings along 1983, when he left to take a short-term and history in that region.” Also in 2002,
with a farmer on his round of
assignment with United Press International. Marschka traveled for MCC through
plowing. Monterey, PA
central Africa to Kenya, Rwanda, and the
Since 1983, Marschka has worked for
Democratic Republic of Congo. Through
Lancaster Newspapers’ daily Intelligencer
the years since, and for various disaster-
Journal. He began as a staff photographer,
related purposes, he has photographed
and for the past five years has been the
severe drought conditions in Honduras,
visuals editor, managing photographers
the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami in
and the editorial art department.
Indonesia, and the effects of the 2005
In 1999, he advanced his freelance earthquake in the Kashmir region of
career by traveling to Albania during Pakistan.
the Kosovo conflict. Marschka was
These days, Marschka is “looking forward
“inspired by a Greek Orthodox priest
to other projects and helping my wife
who was attempting to bridge a gap
Valerie [who he married in 1989] guide
between Muslims and Christians in that
my two sons, Kyle and Joseph, through
region.” Following that experience, he
school and into their future.” He is in his
was contacted by the Mennonite Central
twenty-seventh year of covering breaking
Committee (MCC), a non-governmental
news, sports, and features at Lancaster
organization promoting peace and
Newspapers. Marschka is grateful for
reconciliation. Being hired to travel and
the experience, especially since he has
shoot photographs for their magazine
“witnessed historic events and met many
and Web site, “started the fulfillment
interesting people.”
of a professional dream of mine,” says
Marschka. Marschka’s photography has earned him
numerous awards, including a 2003 third
In late 2001, following the events of 9/11,
place win in the magazine/sports division
Marschka was asked by MCC to travel to
for the Missouri School of Journalism’s
the Middle East, not a popular destination
Pictures of the Year International
for photographers at the time. However,
(POYi) contest. The POYi is one of the
Marschka “jumped at the chance in
world’s largest and most prestigious
early 2002 and left for Cairo and south
 A P E N N I N G T O N PR O F ILE 4

photojournalism contests, with over 23,000 falling off a roof, running, etc. Four knee
photographs submitted in 2003. A total of surgeries, crushed vertebrae and back
250 awards were in 44 different categories. surgery later, I still consider my physical
fitness a priority. Since my orthopedist
Marschka and his wife have been involved
won’t allow me to run anymore, I get my
with their United Methodist church in
thrills these days by riding my F800 BMW
Lancaster, PA, as well as other charitable
motorcycle on excursions in the region,
efforts including Appalachian service
sometimes with my brother David, who
projects, Habitat for Humanity, MCC, and
owns a similar motorcycle.” Marschka
local shelters. He and his wife are both
continues, “I’ve identified with my brother
physically active. However, Marschka
Doug’s motto over the years: ‘I have never
admits, “My workouts are a bit more tame
been much of a spectator.’”
of late since I have had many injuries over
the years from racing mountain bikes,

ABOVE LEFT: Dan Marschka in

Pakistan, July 2006. Mennonite
Central Committee photo, used
with permission

ABOVE RIGHT: Toxic steam

created by rain falling on cooling
lava from the Nyiragongo Volcano
surrounds residents as they walk
through Goma, Democratic
Republic of Congo in 2002.
Mennonite Central Committee
photo, used with permission

BELOW LEFT: Muslim girls

playing basketball in the Somali
section of Nairobi, Kenya in 2002.
Mennonite Central Committee
photo, used with permission
5 ON CAMPUS
03

A New Space for

Exploration
Stainton Hall Classrooms Transform into Contemporary Science Center
Studying science at the Pennington School providing Pennington’s students with the
is different now, and gloriously so. best possible education in the sciences.
The old facilities did not adequately
When the process of creating a new
promote the development of scientific
science facility was completed in the
analysis and function.
summer of 2008, returning students
found themselves in a new world of five “Planning took over four years, and a great
additional laboratories and five new deal of research into how to best configure
science classrooms, all of this in 12,000 the space,” said Horsley. “In the planning
square feet of sprawling dedicated space. stages, we visited over a dozen schools,
including some colleges and universities,
The project marked the completion of
sometimes learning from their experiences
Phase one of an unprecedented long-
about what worked and what didn’t.”
range master plan that targeted $4.2
million for improvements to the math The improvements will pave the way for
classrooms in Old Main, and the new vastly improved experiences for the here-
science facility in Stainton. and-now of Pennington students, and also
will ease their transition to college science
According to architect Michael Farewell,
programs, thanks to the greater modernity
principal of Farewill Mills Gatsch
and efficiency of the new spaces.
Architects, designers of the new facilities,
“Two of Pennington School’s most The appreciation of the science classrooms
iconic buildings underwent significant and labs has deepened as they have
transformation this past year. Perhaps the been tested through the academic year.
most dramatic was Stainton Hall, which First and foremost, safety issues have
was renovated to accommodate expanded been resolved, with lab spaces which
laboratory and classroom space, as well are planned and designed with that as a
as systems, restroom upgrades and priority.
new lighting and student lockers. This
The large stationary demonstration tables,
modernist building is now current with
which were barriers between students and
science curriculum requirements, and
teachers, have been eliminated, and have
raises the science program facilities to
been replaced with movable ones that
the level of the new arts classrooms in the
can be pushed aside when they are not
Campus Center.”
needed. As a result, experiments run more
“From the very beginning, the goal of this smoothly.
project went far beyond simply updating
“I have been ‘field testing’ the new
the facilities with new furnishings and
science labs…and the difference is
technology,” explained Tom Horsley,
remarkable,” says science teacher, Jeffrey
Department Chair of Science. “The
Hall. “The most important factor, of
department was in dire need of more
course, is the safety of the students. The
and better-organized space that could
new configuration made it much easier for
meet the needs of our growing student
me to monitor the work of each student
population.”
and make sure that each is following the
But there was more than just student appropriate protocol. In addition, the
need involved. There were also the unmet increased space and improved traffic
TOP: New science labs
after renovation logistical needs of a faculty committed to flow means that students can work
 O N CA MPU S 6

more effectively without getting in each

others’ ways. The students are actually
getting better results than in years past,
simply because they can work in a more
systematic way, and the layout of the new
labs makes that possible.”

Classrooms themselves can be

transformed from lecture rooms to
discussion settings to lab spaces.
Teachers match room configurations to
subjects being taught, so that almost
instant transformations can customize the
learning.

Science classrooms are equipped with

projection systems and Smartboards.
Labs for student experiments that
would have been impossible before now
work smoothly and efficiently. There is
room – and opportunity – to make the
study of science far more hands-on and
meaningful.

With increased storage space and new

equipment, like fume hoods and a growth
chamber, young scientists can expect to
broaden their horizons – with elbow room
to spare. Students working on special
projects and/or advanced work now have
secure areas to preserve their projects. Capital Campaign Update
Phase One of the Campaign for Pennington
“Returning students who visit from college
can’t believe their eyes,” said Horsley. In 2006, the Board of Trustees of The Pennington School approved a long-range master
“They lived through the old era, and it plan that represents an unprecedented fundraising initiative. Over the next ten years, the
looked very different around here then. school will expand upon this plan to improve the educational environment and athletic
facilities, and continue to build the endowment to ensure that Pennington is able to
They’re envious that they missed out on
attract and educate a varied student body and a dedicated, distinguished faculty.
this, but really very happy for us, too.”
The summer of 2008 marked the completion of Phase One of the Campaign with
Less tangible elements are equally
$4.2 million dollars raised to renovate the math classrooms in Old Main and build a
important.
new science facility in Stainton. These new spaces allow for the greater utilization of
“The beauty and newness of everything technology and help better prepare Pennington students to excel in science classes
in college. New laboratory spaces also make the school more competitive with peer
translates into a better feeling for everyone
schools and draw to Pennington more applicants and teachers who are interested in
– students and faculty. I can honestly say
science. The addition of five laboratories and five new science classrooms nearly doubles
that we all enjoy science more,” reports
the amount of dedicated science space to 12,000 square feet.
the department chair. “We teachers can
see the faces of our students because Phase Two fundraising has begun and includes plans for a new turf field that will provide
of how the seating in these rooms is all-weather facilities for several varsity sports. This field will also provide the flexibility
arranged, and we can change and adapt necessary to accommodate our growing number of sports teams and their schedules.
In addition, financial resources will be allocated to improve the quality of all of the
our teaching styles more easily.”
School’s grass playing fields. Phase Two also encompasses plans for new parking lots and
As to those students, one senior aptly driveways, along with modified traffic patterns that will improve safety and the overall
expressed what so many at the Pennington campus atmosphere by creating a pedestrian-only quad for students and faculty during
School are feeling: the school day. In addition, the school hopes to raise an additional $1,000,000 for
the endowment.
“Now we can do the same experiments we
According to architect Michael Farewell of Farewell Mills Gatsch Architects, “The Plan’s
used to just talk about. I really feel like I’m
overall goal is to preserve the character of the architecture from the many chapters of the
a true scientist,” says senior Jacob Levy.
School’s history, while building new structures that reinforce the quality of the campus.”
And it’s a fine feeling indeed.
03 S
ONT U DEN
CAMPUS
T/ CAMPUS L I FE

Humilty,Virtue,
Honor
The following is adapted from a recent talk towering oaks, junior boys were inducted
in Chapel by Head of School into the Gateways.
Penny Townsend.
Dr. Green was headmaster from 1920 to
In his welcoming remarks at the National 1943, making his administration the second
Honor Society induction ceremony, longest in Pennington history, following
Head of the English Department Terry that of the Reverend Thomas O’Hanlon,
Burns talked about “the Gateways,” an who was headmaster from 1867 to1872 and
organization begun at Pennington in then again from 1876 to 1902.
1921 by Dr. Francis Harvey Green, the
Dr. Green did much to enhance the
legendary headmaster of Pennington.
academic life at Pennington, and during
Students who would promote the highest
his time here many poets, authors, artists,
ideals of manhood and were resolved to
musicians, political figures, and prominent
be faithful to Pennington were selected
clergymen visited campus. Great athletic
for membership into the society. The eight
teams were also part of the Dr. Green
boys were also chosen for their all-around
years: the 1932 football team, state
ability in school activities and general
champion, was “undefeated, untied and
interest in the welfare of their alma mater.
unscored-upon,” and the basketball team
The motto of the Gateways was “Virtue
won the state championship in 1934 and
crowns those who honor her.”
1935.
In the area of the campus where Meckler
Dr. Green’s idea for the construction of
Library now stands, there stood three
the three Gateways arches was taken from
archways, or “gates.” Each archway stood
Caius College of Cambridge University
on a brick platform, elevated a step or two
in England, one of the oldest universities
from the ground. Atop each brick archway
in the world, which celebrates 800 years
was inscribed a word: HUMILITY, VIRTUE,
of continuous education in 2009. Caius
HONOR. In this serene setting, under
College has three gates that symbolize the
 O N CA MPU S 8

• Do we recognize that

everyone here is an individual
who has his or her own unique
talents and abilities?
• Do we appreciate and
celebrate diversity?
• Do we represent our school
well at athletic contests,
off-campus events, and in
and around the town of
Pennington?
• Is being on a team about
individual accomplishments
or about working together
toward a common goal?
• Do you feel challenged to be
the best that you can be?
• Do we greet each other with
a kind word and an optimistic
attitude?
• Do we treat each other with
respect?
path of academic life. When HUMILITY. That bench at • Is service important to us? Do
a student first comes to Caius Pennington reminds us that we help those around us? Are
he passes under the gateway we are not any better or any we socially responsible?
that bears the word HUMILITY. more important than anyone • Can a teacher leave a room
At the center of the college else. At Caius, students pass during a test without worrying
stands a second gate under through campus under the that answers might be shared
which students must pass daily VIRTUE gate every day. That or papers copied?
to reach the other buildings on bench in front of Meckler
• Do we learn from our
campus. VIRTUE adorns the Library reminds us of the many
mistakes?
top of that gate. The third gate positive character traits, traits
is the gate of HONOR and is that are universally valued • Are older students role models
only used for graduation and as being good: confidence, for younger students, showing
other very special occasions. empathy, diligence, them how to develop as
compassion, trustworthiness, students and leaders?
Now all of you know where to
and on and on—traits that • Do we respect and protect our
find HUMILITY, VIRTUE and
are so necessary for our moral environment?
HONOR on the Pennington
development. And at Caius,
campus today. The benches • Do we listen to each other?
one graduates through the
in front of Meckler Library are Are class meetings a shared
HONOR gate, and that bench
what remain of Dr. Green’s experience, with everyone
reminds us of the respect we
arches, arches that had to participating equally? Or
have for ourselves and for
be moved each time a new at least being given the
others, the respect we receive
building was erected or the opportunity to participate
for our accomplishments here,
landscape of Pennington was equally?
and the respect we will always
altered during the last eighty • Is excellence in all that we do
have for our school. And it
or so years. But those three important to us?
reminds us to honor those who
words have been an integral
came before us. • Is learning—all kinds of
part of The Pennington School
learning—the most important
for almost a century. Are these words part of our
thing we do here?
daily life at Pennington? I say
At Caius College, the first
yes. A resounding yes. Now
gateway the students pass
you take a moment to think
through at matriculation is
about it:
03

“It takes courage School is hard. What you do each day

is not all that easy. Coming to school
momentum in our community. And that
positive momentum will bring us great joy,
to be different, and being expected to participate in and joy has to be an essential aspect of
class and challenge yourself to the best learning.
to stand up for of your abilities can be overwhelming.
Pennington was a much younger school
But Pennington is a safe place; it is an
your beliefs, encouraging place. This is a community
when Dr. Green was here, and he clearly
wanted to build traditions for us, the future
to act rightly that works together.
generations. Traditions that we could look

in the face of It also takes courage to do what you

do every day. Not the kind of courage
to for inspiration and direction. Traditions
of excellence that would come to define
opposition.” that immediately earns you some Pennington. Those traditions have evolved
sort of recognition or glory, but the as times have changed, but they still
kind of courage that can come out of ground us as a community of learners
disappointment; the courage that leads where students of all different kinds of
to resolve and resiliency. Courage that backgrounds and cultures and traditions
enables you to take risks, to try something of their own come together to learn and to
new. Perhaps you won’t be successful grow. That is what Dr. Green wanted for us.
the first time, but you will try again. It
takes courage to be different, to stand
up for your beliefs, to act rightly in the
face of opposition. It is courageous to do
something that might be viewed by your
peers as being uncool. At Pennington, we
will always admire your courage.

An inescapable truth is that so much about

life at Pennington is based on character
and moral and intellectual leadership. And
the world is going to need a lot of that
kind of leadership. Those three benches
in front of Meckler Library, those benches
that were originally part of Dr. Green’s
Gateways arches, will always be a part of
Pennington. They make us better. They
stimulate our thinking. They unite us. They
remind us of why we are here. And if we
consistently repeat those three easy-to-
remember words—Humility, Virtue, and
Honor—that repetition will build positive
 O N CA MPU S 03

Maximize your Pennington Pride...

By Investing in our Students Who are Involved

ON THE FIEL DS IN THE CL A SSRO O MS

in the st u dios on the stages

Like nearly all independent schools, Pennington relies on donations to the Annual Fund to ensure the quality of the school’s
programs year after year. Your gift to the Annual Fund helps to support; buildings and grounds; competitive teacher and
staff salaries; financial aid; and the day-to-day operating costs not otherwise covered by tuition.

These gifts are put to use in the year they are given, making an immediate and important difference in the lives of students,
faculty, and others whose lives are enriched by The Pennington School.

Please help us meet this year’s goal of $835,000 by making an investment in the future of Pennington.

To make a donation today, you may do any of the following

• Please phone our Development Office at 609-737-6144

• Visit our online giving page at www.pennington.org/alumdev/giving_back.asp

• Mail your Annual Fund envelope which is located in your magazine. Please also include news of yourself and your family,
which we might share with others in future issues of Pennington Magazine.

On behalf of Pennington students, who benefit from your gifts to the Annual Fund, thank you for your support!
03 S T U DEN T/ CAMPUS L I FE

A 21 Century st

Education Begins in
the Middle
The following is adapted from a recent appreciation, and a commitment to
essay in The Pennington Postings by Head service.
of Middle School Todd Paige.
When I was in school and had to write a
Last year, the Middle School faculty research paper, my research was limited
and I spent an afternoon and evening based on the resources available in the
considering what a twenty-first-century library, and there was never any question
education looks like or should look like. as to the credibility of the source materials.
It is a question we have been discussing Today, our children make a few keystrokes,
ever since. Pat Bassett, the president of and hundreds of thousands of resources
the National Association of Independent present themselves within seconds. Given
Schools (NAIS), says, “We are currently this plethora of information and sources,
preparing students for jobs that don’t it is critical that we teach our students
yet exist, using technologies that haven’t how to differentiate between reliable
been invented to solve problems that and unreliable resources. Just recently,
we don’t yet know are problems.” She’s health class students participated in a web
right, but there are actions we are taking search to learn how to identify credible
here at Pennington to help prepare our health sites. While the content is different
students for this unpredictable future, from course to course, the research skills
ABOVE: Todd Paige working with focusing specifically on research skills, we are teaching our students spans the
middle school students collaboration, mathematics, cultural curriculum.
 O N CA MPU S 12

while also providing more moment they enter the sixth

challenging course work grade. Students in the Middle
for those students who are School collected “Pennies for
capable. Specifically, our two- Peace,” participated in food
year algebra program allows drives for the Mount Carmel
students the opportunity to Guild and Crisis Ministry,
reach a higher level of comfort and participated in a 3-on-
with algebraic thought and 3 basketball event to raise
applications while developing money for the V Foundation.
a deep understanding, The Pennington School is
rather than racing to cover a committed to forming “habits
smattering of concepts. of mind” – service is something
we do naturally.
One aspect of the Pennington
environment that provides Pat Bassett says, “Authentic
our students with a particular education addresses the
advantage is that students ‘whole child,’ the ‘whole
have opportunities to interact person,’ and does not limit
with people from all over our professional development
the world and with a variety and curriculum design to
of cultural backgrounds workplace readiness.” Our
and learning styles. As a task as educators and as
result, Pennington students parents of this generation of
not only are expected to future citizens and decision-
collaborate and tap into makers is to prepare them to
each others’ uniqueness, be innovative and creative; to
Knowing how to conduct but they better understand think outside the box; to seek
formal research is important. and appreciate it. As a way new solutions to old problems
Equally valuable for our to extend our students’ and be prepared to be flexible
children’s future is the ability cultural understanding, our and adapt to new ones; to
to tap into the most accessible sixth-graders will begin use technology today that will
resource available: each other. communications with students allow them to adapt to the
Middle School classrooms from TASIS, The American technology yet to be created;
require students not only to School in Switzerland. to value, include, and learn
work cooperatively, but to Understanding global from people of all walks of life;
work together to produce or perspectives are critical in the and to serve others. Regardless
discover something better twenty-first century, and we are of what century we live in,
than they would if they worked doing what we can to provide the task of drawing out the
in isolation. In math classes, meaningful experiences for our best of each child’s academic,
students check each others’ students. personal, and developmental
algorithms and computation potential can never be wrong.
for accuracy and relevant use. With the gap between
The process is often messy,
English classes are engaged in the wealthy and the poor
but the reward is what keeps
peer editing, and in language widening and the state of the
us motivated to do it all over
classrooms, students learn the economy being what it is,
again.
language together and from there is a significant need to
each other. prepare the next generation
to accept civic and global
Pennington students must also responsibilities. Service has
acquire the mathematics skills been a part of Pennington’s
they will need in a twenty-first- mission throughout its history.
century environment. Over the Weekly chapel services keep
past two years in the Middle our spiritual selves alive
School, we have designed and well while also keeping
programs that support those us grounded and humble.
students whose mathematical Pennington students know
capacities have yet to mature what it means to give from the
13 ON CAMPUS

Honoring
Individuality
Jo Prockop, Director of the Center for Learning, Describes Holistic
Approach to Student Success

“In every way When Dr. Edmund Cervone established The

Center for Learning at The Pennington School
beyond than was the case ten, or even
five, years ago. As Todd Paige discussed
we should focus in 1975, he articulated a mission for the in his piece for the Postings earlier this
program that still stands today. This year, “A Twenty-First-Century Pennington
on what students mission includes the tenet that students Education Begins in the Middle,” the
who learn differently than their more skills, knowledge, and habits of mind
can do well, not typical peers—students who have been that students need to develop have
on what they labeled as learning disabled—should changed dramatically in recent years.
have full access to a college preparatory Students now need “21st-century skills.”
cannot do well.” program. Dr. Cervone envisioned an Described variously, some have referred
academic environment that honored the to these skills as the 5Cs: critical thinking,
individuality of all learners—those with creative problem solving, communications,
learning disabilities and those without— collaboration, and cross-cultural
and approached teaching in such a way relationship building. Pat Basset, President
that all students had the opportunity not of the National Association of Independent
only to achieve but to attain individual Schools (NAIS), has described these skills
excellence. At the time that it was as including cross-disciplinary knowledge,
articulated, this vision may have seemed communication skills, teamwork, analytical
somewhat radical. Even today, there are reasoning, and real-world problem-solving
still those who may think that addressing skills. In his book The Global Achievement
the needs of students with learning Gap, Tony Wagner of Harvard University
disabilities within a college preparatory asserts that there are seven “survival
setting runs the risk of compromising the skills” that students need in today’s
“rigor” of the academic program. Over information age. These are: problem-
thirty years of experience serving students solving and critical thinking; collaboration
with learning disabilities at The Pennington across networks and leading by influence;
School has shown us otherwise. In agility and adaptability; initiative and
articulating his philosophy of learning, Dr. entrepreneurship; effective written and
Cervone asserted “that understanding oral communication; accessing and
transcends memorization, verbalization, analyzing information; and curiosity and
and coverage, … that processes bear imagination.
equal value to content, that there are
So, what does a curriculum that addresses
multiple intelligences, … and that the
these 21st-century skills look like? We
best principles of learning for students
see it emerging every day across The
with differences or disabilities are the best
Pennington School as Mr. Paige so well
principles for all students.”
described in his Postings piece about the
Today, that philosophy of learning seems Middle School. We see it in our initiatives
almost prescient. As we move forward to implement our Accreditation for Growth
into the 21st century, we are challenged to (AFG) goal on information literacy. We see
prepare students to meet a very different it reflected in the activities of our students
set of demands at the college level and as they work together on the Green Cup
 03

Challenge, in the new state- amounts of instructional those with reading difficulties.
of-the-art science classrooms, time addressing spelling Technologies designed
and through the host of problems–a common difficulty to enhance learning for all
leadership and community for students with dyslexia–has students, such as electronic
service opportunities that faded in importance with whiteboards, mini notebook
they participate in every day. the rise of simple technology computers, portable note-
Finally we see it reflected in the tools such as spell check, we taking devices, portable
beliefs about learning that Dr. see a move to curricular goals wireless electronic books, and
Cervone so eloquently stated that are accessible by their Web 2.0 learning environments
over thirty years ago. With very nature. A curriculum that are transforming the way
the world of information at keenly focuses on higher-order that all students interact with
their fingertips, we know now thinking skills, cross-curricular the curriculum, but they are
more than ever that for today’s understandings, collaboration, also breaking down potential
students “understanding creativity, and real-world obstacles for students
transcends memorization.” By problem-solving abilities with learning disabilities.
collaborating and utilizing all appropriately challenges Dr. Cervone believed that
manner of technology, we can all students. And for those “learning should be a nurturing
see our students learning that who learn “differently,” that of success rather than a
“processes bear equal value to difference can be a strength cataloguing of errors.” In every
content.” that they can bring to bear to way we should focus on what
meet these curricular goals. students can do well, not on
Working to continually develop
what they cannot do well. We
and refine a curriculum that The concurrent development
are continually finding ways to
will help students to meet the and further refinement of
help students to work to their
changing demands of college educational and assistive
strengths, and technology
and life in the 21st century technologies adds to the
innovations and a focus on
provides exciting opportunities excitement. While not a
21st-century skills are working
for educators. From the panacea, we can make
hand-in-hand in ways that allow
perspective of the Center for available assistive technologies
us to serve all of our students–
Learning, the opportunity that can provide ways to get
those with learning disabilities
goes beyond reasserting over, under, and around a host
and those without–better and
our founding beliefs about of potential obstacles. Voice
better all the time. Now more
learning, however. For students recognition software allows
than ever we can see “that
with learning disabilities, this students to use their strong
the best principles of learning
reframing of educational goals verbal abilities without being
for students with differences
represents a move even further hampered by problems with
or disabilities are the best
away from a focus on some written expression. Text-to-
principles for all students.”
of the basic skills that may speech software programs
have represented stumbling make the world of electronic
blocks in the past. Just as the text, including the Internet,
need to spend tremendous accessible to all students, even
15 ON CAMPUS

Diversity at
Pennington
Faculty Member Barrington Fulton Jr. Outlines an Intercultural Approach
central principles. The listing of our
core values certainly makes mention
of acknowledging and valuing various
aspects of diversity in all of our everyday
exchanges. The fact that central ideas
like “Every individual has inherent value,”
“Each individual has unique potential
that can be developed,” “Diversity
enriches a community,” “All people are
responsible for and to one another,”
“Character development is integral to
responsible citizenship,” and “All people
should treat each other and each other’s
religious traditions with respect” are in our
Mission Statement indicate that diversity
is supposed to be regarded highly in this
community.

The challenge is making sure that, as

“The Pennington There is no doubt that we live in a time

and place where differences are supposed
we move forward as a community and
teach these values to our students and
School is a place to be valued and accepted. What is great each other, we strive towards creating
about Pennington is that, while events like and maintaining an inclusive community.
where open- celebrating the federal holiday in honor of Valuing and celebrating diversity is
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and changing ineffective when we celebrate and value
mindedness and our exam schedule to honor the historical the various differences separately. To
diversity are inauguration of President Obama might strengthen our bonds as a community,
seem out of the ordinary and even radical we need to practice the concept
valued.” or “too much” to some people in other of “interculturality.” According to
communities, it seems natural or less out- Jean-Michel Leclercq’s text Facets of
of-the-ordinary for us here at Pennington. Interculturality in Education, interculturality
The concept of celebrating diversity and is a set of processes through which
difference is not something that comes relations between different cultures are
naturally; it is learned. It is learned through constructed on a basis of equality and
life experiences, parenting, classroom mutual respect. It is a concept that is
teaching, and supportive environments. more robust than the ones that have
It is not a very hard concept to grasp, as it come before it, such as “multiculturalism,”
merely takes an open mind and heart to because, as Miquel Rodrigo Alsina
celebrate and value people and cultures suggests in his work, La Comunicación
different from one’s own. Luckily, here at Intercultural, it supposes the existence of a
Pennington, it is those parts of the human relationship between people who belong
being that we hope to help cultivate and to various cultural groups. The word in and
grow in each of our students. of itself implies interaction and explicitly
asks for a working across cultures to
It is a pleasure to work at an institution
achieve equality and understanding of
where diversity is at the core. Anyone
all. This word also allows for the concept
who doubts Pennington’s dedication to
of plural identities, the idea that a
diversity need only look at the School’s
person can identify with more than one
 O N CA MPU S 16

underrepresented community, a concept they are important to people both in

with which many of us can identify because and out of our community.
we are not simply classified by just our 3. The expansion of the Diversity
race. Advisory Committee to include all
As dean of intercultural affairs and the interested students, faculty and staff.
head of the Diversity Office and Diversity 4. The creation of the Diversity Resource
Advisory Committee at Pennington, I hope Board, a bulletin board where the
to spread the concept of interculturality community can find information on
with the help of other members of the diversity-related issues and a calendar
Pennington School community who are of events and diversity club meetings.
dedicated to diversity and equality. There 5. The Gay-Straight Alliance’s first annual
are four major goals of the Diversity Office: Ally Week, a time for members of the
1. Recognizing differences community to pledge to stand up and
speak out about anti-LGBT behavior
2. U
 nderstanding and relating to each
and name-calling anywhere, reminding
other’s differences
the community of the strength of
3. U
 ncovering and utilizing learning skills the underrepresented and their
for intercultural connectivity supporters.
4. M
 aking people aware of their own 6. The creation of ASiAN (Asian Students
feelings (both positive and/or negative) in Action Now), an umbrella group of
towards difference various cultural clubs that works toward
As the Diversity Advisory Committee educating the Pennington community
and I work towards these goals, it is our about all things, such as customs,
hope that the office can become more of holidays, food, etc., relating to all
a visible resource center for all students, Asian cultures that are represented in
faculty, staff, and families to come to the student body. This group alone has
search for information about difference put together four School-wide events
and to come to talk openly about those celebrating cultural holidays like Diwali,
differences. Through our focus on Dong Ji, and the Lunar New Year.
interculturality, we hope to continue to 7. The continued search for a diversity
educate our students about cultures, training program for all students,
lifestyles, and races other than their own faculty, and staff. The closest we have
while also attempting to remove words so far is the work of the talented
like “tolerance” (which has negative Tiffany Taylor-Smith, president of TR
implications) and “minority” from our Taylor Consulting Group.
community’s lexicon and replacing them
The Pennington School is a place where
with words like “acceptance” and “equals,”
open-mindedness and diversity are valued.
respectively.
We still have ways that we can improve,
In order to reach our goals, many active but with the continued support of all of
steps have been taken to make TPS an us—students, staff, faculty, administration,
even more open-minded and inclusive parents, alumni, friends and family—we
place. Such steps include: can be even more successful in achieving
our goals.
1. T
 he beginning of our Thoughts on
Diversity initiative, a weekly quotation
placed in The Voice regarding the
importance of diversity in our everyday
lives.
2. T
 he beginning of our Wait, So Why Do
We Get The Day Off? initiative, a brief
announcement and flier reminding our
students, faculty, and staff why we get
days off during the school year. The
hope is to keep informed of various
cultural holidays and reminded of why
17 ON CAMPUS

ART-O-RAMA
Combining the Study of Art with Hands-on Experience

Class of 2009
The Three Wishes by The Brothers Grimm
Created Fall 2002
The quilt depicts the classic story of a woodcutter and his wife who are granted three
wishes by a spry imp. In the end, the couple find all the happiness they really need in a
sizzling pan of sausage.

For the past nine years, Pennington Middle attending Pennington as juniors and
Schoolers have taken part in a three-year seniors, and even more have their art on
journey of creativity known as Art-o-rama. display in the form of story quilts.
In the summer of 2000, for the upcoming
The story quilt assignment has been
school year 2000-2001, then-art teacher
a staple of the sixth grade year of the
Dolores Eaton and drama teacher Lisa
course. Based on the art of painter and
Houston designed a course that would
author Faith Ringgold, the story quilt
combine the elements of art and drama
provides young artists the opportunity
in a hands-on learning experience. Each
to practice the art of storytelling using
grade level focuses on a theme and a
skills such as color scheme, shape, form,
set of skills, all culminating in the eighth
and perspective, and using the media
grade “Art Alive” productions. Since its
of fabric, paint, paper, ink, and found
inception, hundreds of Pennington Middle
objects. Students learn to collaborate on
Schoolers have passed through the three-
the design, and work cooperatively on the
year course, now taught by art teacher
construction of the quilt. They also learn
Caroline Hall and Lisa Houston. Many of
basic sewing skills as they embroider their
those students have gone on to pursue
initials. The class of 2014 took creativity to
art or theatre as a life-long career. Others
a new level by designing a living quilt.
are upper level art and drama students
 O N CA MPU S 18

Class of 2010
Stellaluna by Janell Cannon
Created Fall 2003
Separated from her mother before she is old enough to fly, Stellaluna finds
out, when she is taken in by a family of birds, that not all winged creatures
eat fruit. As Stellaluna adapts to the habits of her new family, she learns the
essence of friendship in humorous and touching ways.

Class of 2011
The Magic Amber by James M. Reasoner
Created Fall 2004
In this Korean legend, an old rice farmer and his wife are repaid for their
kindness and generosity.

Class of 2012
Habibi by Naomi Shihab Nye
Created Fall 2005

Liyana and her family move from St. Louis to Palestine. Though her father
grew up there, Liyana knows very little about her family’s Arab heritage. It isn’t
until she meets Omer that her homesickness fades. But Omer is Jewish, and
their friendship is silently forbidden in this land. The title of the book refers to
an Arabic term of endearment.

Class of 2013
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Created Fall 2006
The story is a short moral tale about a relationship
between a young boy and a tree in a forest. The tree loves
the boy very much and gives him anything he asks for.
After many years, in the ultimate act of self-sacrifice, the
tree lets the boy cut her down so the boy can build a boat
in which he can sail. The boy leaves the tree, now a stump.
Many years later, the boy, now an old man, returns and
the tree says, “I have nothing left to give you.” The boy
replies that all he needs is a quiet place to sit and rest.
The tree happily obliges.
03

Class of 2014
The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
Created Fall 2007
The class of 2014 thought “outside the box” when they designed their story quilt. Instead of sewing
or collaging, the class made a living garden “quilt.” They chose the story, The Lorax, by Dr. Seuss,
and their garden featured year-round blooms such as mums, winter pansies, tulips, paper whites,
alium, and herbs. The large buckets feature drawings from the story. The smaller clay vases were
designed and crafted by each student in the class. See photo, above

Class of 2015
A House for Hermit Crab by Eric Carle
Created Fall 2008
This year’s sixth grade class presents their quilt,
depicting the story of a hermit crab who has outgrown
his snug little shell, so he must find himself a larger
one (and many new friends to decorate and protect his
new house). But what will happen when he outgrows
this shell, and has to say good-bye to all the sea
creatures who have made Hermit Crab’s house a
home?
GET INVOLVED!

CAREER DAY SPEAKERS CAREER NETWORK COLLEGE MENTORS

Pennington sponsors a Career Day for the The Career Network is an online Young alumni return to campus
junior and senior classes biannually. Our next community of alumni and parents and meet with seniors for informal
career day will be next school year, 2009 – who serve as networking contacts for exchanges to give guidance
2010. We need alumni and parents to serve fellow alumni and parents. They may relative to making college decisions
as speakers or facilitators in presenting career provide career advice, mentoring, and dealing with the myriad of
information and advice. current information on industry opportunities and challenges facing
trends and individual companies, college students. This is our newest
and may also provide contacts within program and we need your help to
their industry and assist Pennington make this a success.
college alumni in finding summer
internships. If you are interested in getting
involved in any of these programs
or need more information please
contact Joanne McGann at
[email protected] or 609-
737-6149.

Join us on Facebook! Search for “The Pennington School - Alumni Group” to connect with classmates and keep up with School events.
21 ON CAMPUS

WALKING THE TALK

TPS Faculty Go Extra Mile for Charity
Community service has become an Ritter has participated in the Anchor
integral part of the curriculum at House Ride for Runaways for several
many American high schools, and The years. On this year’s ride from Rutland,
Pennington School is no exception. Vt., to the finale at Quakerbridge Mall in
Faculty and students alike take seriously Lawrence, he raised approximately $1,500
the School’s goal of helping others, but a for the cause. “During the week-long,
number of faculty members have recently 500-mile ride you tend to get into the daily
gone the extra mile (pun fully intended) as challenge of it all and possibly lose sight
role models for students—and if increased of the big picture,” he says, “but then you
physical fitness is a side benefit, so much are reminded of the good you are doing
the better! By undertaking physical and (especially entering the Quakerbridge
fundraising challenges, they are inspiring Mall), and there is a connection with all
students to do so, as well. of the riders who have worked toward a
common goal.”
Health teacher Richard Ritter led the way
in the summer by cycling in the one-week The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day
Anchor House Ride for Runaways. October walk in the Philadelphia area was a first for
brought a spate of faculty activity: sixth- Kessel, who joined the Pennington faculty
grade teacher Lisa Kessel participated in this fall, and she gained spirited support
the Breast Cancer Three-Day from Oct. from her students and colleagues. On
17 to 19; Jerry Russo, teacher of Spanish, the 60-mile walk, she wore a Pennington
participated in the two-mile Walk Now T-shirt signed by her sixth-graders, and
for Autism on Oct. 19; and middle school middle schoolers gave her a rousing send-
science teacher Melissa Headly ran the off the day before the event, complete
Marine Corps Marathon on Oct. 26 to raise with pink balloons. She raised $2,200 for
money for leukemia research. In addition the cause. “As we entered the campus
to supporting these efforts both financially at Villanova University, we were greeted
TOP : The Pennington and in spirit, students joined faculty in two by a procession of supporters,” Kessel
community joins together for the Pennington School–sponsored efforts: a says. “It wasn’t much different than my
CROP Hunger Walk. heartwarming send off at Pennington—
Run for the Cure on Oct. 26 and the CROP
ABOVE: TPS Run for the Cure. Walk on Nov. 2. just about a few thousand more folks. An
 S T U D E N T /CA M PU S LIF E 03

emotional woman in her 60s stepped in Leaders sponsored a “Run for the Cure,”
front of me, thanked me and hugged me. benefiting the Susan G. Komen Foundation
She was wearing a pin that said ‘survivor.’” for breast cancer research. The statewide
Race for the Cure came early in the school
Russo’s participation in the Walk Now
year this year, and the students were afraid
for Autism was a family endeavor: he was
that Homecoming and other commitments
joined by his wife, Sue; their daughter,
would limit their time to spread the word
Julia; and his mother, Eva. The two-mile
and get commitments, explains advisor
walk at Mercer County Community College
Erin O’Connell. As a consequence, they
raised funds for the organization Autism
organized their own run later, on Oct. 26,
Speaks, which promotes autism research
through the streets of Pennington. “There
and assists and advocates for families of
were 70 runners or walkers (students,
children who have some form of autism.
faculty, parents, and friends)—more than
“Julia has been diagnosed with PDD
we had had participate in a run before,”
(Pervasive Developmental Disorder), which
she says. “We raised over $2,000, and . . .
puts her on what is called the ‘spectrum’
we hope to make this an annual event.”
of autism,” Russo explains. “She has made
terrific progress with the help of therapists, The CROP Hunger Walk is not a new event
and so we decided to do something to for Pennington students and faculty; they
help the families in this situation who are have participated in it for many years, and
not as fortunate as ours.” The family raised the School has hosted the local event
over $2,400 for the cause. for the past five. CROP (which stands for
Communities Responding to Overcome
Headly, a first-year teacher at Pennington,
Poverty) Walks are administered through
ran the 26.2 miles that started at the
the international humanitarian agency
Pentagon; went through Arlington, Va.;
Church World Service. This year, despite
passed through Washington, D.C.’s
the competition presented by the
Georgetown section, the monuments, and
School’s boys’ and girls’ soccer teams’
the National Mall; and culminated at the
playing in the state finals the same day, 49
Iwo Jima memorial near Arlington National
students and three faculty members were
Cemetery. She raised $2,800 for the TOP: Librarian Mary Fraser-
numbered among the 73 walkers, raising
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society through Pauls and faculty member Erin
over $4,500.
its Team In Training program. O’Connell don their favorite pink
Pennington School students are learning gear which has became a nation-
Not to be outdone, the same day that wide Race for the Cure tradition.
how to help others and how to stay healthy
Headly was running through the nation’s
in the process—and their teachers are BOTTOM: Faculty member
capital, The Pennington School’s Peer
leading the way! Lisa Kessel
23 ON CAMPUS

Students
where the whole process repeats itself.
This concept of the balance of light and
darkness can be attributed to the ancient
philosophy of yin and yang. As darkness

Celebrate reaches its extreme, it is said to return to

its opposite – in this case light. Another
way that many view Dong Ji is as a day

Dong Ji
of evil spirits. The concept of darkness is
often connected to evil and on the darkest
day of the year many cultures believe
that evil spirits roam the earth at great
When we think of the holidays during numbers.
December, what normally comes to mind
are the traditions of Christmas, Hanukah, Dong Ji is a holiday that is very family-
and Kwanza. What all these holidays have oriented in which family members take
in common is a history, tradition, and a off from work and many travel miles, in
culture behind them. some cases, to spend quality time with
their family. One of the most important
There are many traditions in Dong Ji is the food. The type
other holidays of food eaten by each culture during this
celebrated in other time is different, but it is all the same in the
countries that way it brings family together.
go unnoticed or
unrecognized by One signature food of Dong Ji is the red
many in our society bean soup known as patjuk in Korea. Red
today. One such bean soup is classified by its rather sweet
example is the taste and a unique texture. The reason for
holiday of Dong eating red bean soup is as a way to drive
Ji (also spelled away the evil spirits said to be roaming
Dong Zhi). Dong around during this day.
Ji is celebrated Many cultures in Asia believe that bright
during the winter colors such as red in particular are a bane
solstice of each of evil. Not only is this soup eaten but
year by many also, it is sometimes placed around the
different countries household to ward away the evil spirits and
in Eastern Asia. Like the misfortune and illness said to come
any holiday, Dong from them. Another popular food eaten
Ji holds great importance to the people during this time is Tangyuan, which is a
who celebrate it. According to South sweet and gluttonous flour. The name tang
Korean boarding student Yosup Keum `10, is Chinese for the word soup but is closely
“Dong Ji is a day that resembles a western related to the word tuan which means
Thanksgiving in which family members reunion. Yuan on the other hand means
congregate to spend quality time and perfect or happy. In a sense the food
enjoy food.” For centuries, many cultures Tangyuan stands for family reunion and is
such as that of the Chinese have shown thus eaten during this time to signify family
great admiration for the celestial objects. and prosperity. There are many other
The winter solstice is the darkest day of popular foods eaten during this time such
the year for those living on the northern as mutton, long noodles, and dumplings.
hemisphere. This is due to the combination
of the earth’s tilt on its axis, rotation, and Holidays are an essential part of human
revolution across the sun. Even though the life. They are times in which we can all
winter solstice is a day of darkness, those relax, enjoy great food, and spend time
who celebrate Dong Ji often see it as a day with loved ones. Holidays are also an
of optimism. important time where we can celebrate
our culture, remember our loved ones, and
After the winter solstice the days begin even learn about the traditions of others.
to grow longer until the summer solstice
—Vaclav Barina `11
 03

Purple Tuesday
Have you ever looked around on chapel faculty that year ran out in a panic and was
days? Have you seen all the different trying to buy purple-colored clothing.”
colors people are wearing...but wait! You Moreover, the responses to Purple
see three people wearing purple, no four, Tuesday were only good ones. “It’s one of
wait ten. Is it a mere coincidence? Not those things that just caught on,” says Ms.
at all; it’s Purple Tuesday! “Purple makes Tucker, and it soon became an unofficial
people happy; it’s an uplifting color,” says tradition.
drama teacher Ms. Lisa Houston, one of
But how did this tradition spread like wild
the founders of Purple Tuesday. Purple
fire? Mr. Jeffery O’Neil, biology teacher,
Tuesday was started in 1999 during a new
answers: “I think Ms. Houston advertises
fashion era. Men had started wearing
it amongst the faculty, but I sell it to the
matching metallic ties with the same
students.” Mr. O’Neil has been known to
colored shirt in a darker shade. Among
advertise Purple Tuesday, and he adds,
these people was Dean Liwosz, complete
“It’s something fun at this school, and I try
with a purple metallic tie complementing a
to inspire the students to wear purple.”
purple shirt. Ms. Houston and Ms. Beverly
Speaking of the Tuesdays he forgets, he
Tucker, Executive Assistant to Head of
states, “I have forgotten to wear purple
School, happened to be wearing purple
on occasion, and the students yell at me
on the same Tuesday that Dean Liwosz was
profusely for it.”
wearing this combination. After realizing
that they were matching in their purple Purple Tuesday is one of those traditions
attire every Tuesday, they decided to tell that makes the Pennington Community
everyone to participate. “Its one of those tighter. Many students and faculty try to
weird things that developed,” says Dean keep this tradition alive at our school and
Liwosz. The purple craze began, but they continue to persuade others to join in. Ms.
decided to take it a step further. Around Houston adds, “It’s a silly accomplishment,
2001, Ms. Houston and Ms. Tucker decided but it’s something that is unique to
to play a joke on the new faculty. They Pennington…and it adds to the fabric of
added on to the dress code section of the our school.”
new faculty’s handbook to wear purple
—Anita Dam ‘11
on Tuesdays, and what a laugh it was.
Ms. Houston comments: “The entire new
25 ON CAMPUS

TUESDAYS WITH
MR. PARNOS
Former Student and Current TPS Faculty Member, Ida Malloy ‘82,
Pays Tribute to an Inspirational Teacher
In 1976, I came to The Pennington School
as a seventh-grader. I was the only girl in
my class and quickly became withdrawn
and depressed. I tried to become invisible,
and sometimes it worked. Somehow I
managed to crawl my way to ninth grade,
and finally other girls entered my grade,
as well as a new advisor who helped to
shape my life and give me direction. That
year George Parnos became my advisor
and teacher. At first I did not know what
to make of this high energy, fast-talking,
intense man, but in a very short time
he made an impression on me that still
inspires and motivates me today.

Last year I read Tuesdays With Morrie,

and after having a good cry, I searched
my mind for a college professor that
influenced me, but sadly I came up empty.
It did not take long for me to determine
who “my Morrie” was. Mr. Parnos was
an amazing mathematician and physics
teacher. Although I enjoyed math and
found great success in lower levels
of math and science, physics was the
academic tsunami that made me question
my abilities. As a senior, I was placed in
Honors Physics, a huge mistake. Mr. Parnos
suggested that I try regular physics, but
that did not help. I was in way over my
head and decided to talk to Mr. Parnos
about dropping the class.

I remember my conversation with Mr.

Parnos as he moved around the physics
room and set up a lab for the next day.
He said to me, “My sweet, you must try
harder.” As I stood there looking at him in
great confusion he went into his office and
 O N CA MPU S

dug out some photocopied papers. He My trip to Greece this past summer
came back and gave them to me and said, allowed me to spend two marvelous weeks
“Do you know who this man is?” I replied with Mr. Parnos and his family. He woke
“No.” Mr. Parnos told me that the man was me up at six o’clock every morning, and
Memnon the Ethiopian. He explained to sometimes we talked until one o’clock at
me that he was a great African who was night. He shared many wonderful stories,
respected by the Greeks. It was in that and his wealth of knowledge compares to
moment that two things happened: one, I no other teacher or professor I have ever
realized that I was not going to be able to encountered. I wanted to tell him what an
drop physics; and two, for the first time in inspiration he has been to me, and I know
my six years at Pennington someone said that his prodding and pushing me, even as
something inspiring and positive about an adult, has made me stronger.
Africa and her people.
When I became a teacher I wanted to
I decided to stay in physics and came inspire lives and push my students into
faithfully every day for extra help, and even places that made them uncomfortable and
sometimes on weekends. Occasionally in made them eke out their own greatness.
class I surprised Mr. Parnos by answering I do not know if I have inspired or ever
a question correctly and displaying a mild will inspire someone the way Mr. Parnos
understanding. At the end of the year I inspired me, but whenever I question
managed to produce a solid D, the only my purpose as a teacher, a quotation
one I ever received. Mr. Parnos told me by [Greek philosopher and novelist]
that he had never seen any student work as Nikos Kazantzakis reminds me of why
hard as I did. I teach: “Teachers are those who use
themselves as bridges, over which they
When I went off to college I encountered
invite their students to cross; then having
teachers who tried to tell me that I was
facilitated their crossing, joyfully collapse,
not smart enough or that maybe I needed
encouraging them to create bridges of
to change my major to something that
their own.”
was “more doable” for me, and I always
responded, “No I can do whatever I set On a final note I would be remiss if I
my mind to do.” I recalled those days did not mention other teachers at The
with Mr. Parnos and that even when he Pennington School whom I will forever
knew how horribly I was doing in his class, cherish: Marjorie Fass, Ruth Reilly,
he did not let me quit. The D I received Margaret Kersey, Art Campbell, Brad
has no bearing on the most significant Henderson, B.J. Garry, Kee Ahn, Bill
educational experience I had ever had. Long, Terry Burns, Hugo Rossi, Paul and FACING PAGE: Ida Malloy ‘82
The lesson I learned is that I am greater Janice Hoffreiter, Ted Naffzinger and Emil (center) and George Parnos
(right) with a member of the
than I had allowed myself to believe, and Bretzger.
elite Evzones guard at the Greek
that I needed to learn to discipline myself Parliament building in Athens.
—Ida Malloy
and not be discouraged by a challenge.
ABOVE: Malloy and Parnos at the
Parthenon
27 ON CAMPUS

Great
Performances
At Pennington
Director Lisa Houston Reflects on the Year’s Performances
Fall Play 2008: Macbeth Nowadays those visions come a country, the world? I think
I have been asked, “Why did to us across digital TV screens, that Shakespeare’s greatest
you choose this play?” more in video games, or on the big gift was recognizing human
times for this show than for screen – in a way, this puts truths that I’m sure he never
any other show. I am guessing distance between the viewer imagined would stand the test
that some may think that and the actual act. Technology of time. So, here we are today,
witchery, blood, and gore are makes violence more tolerable at The Pennington School.
questionable material for a and, in some ways, acceptable. What will fate bring us? How
high school show. I chose this I think it is important to think will we act to set our future
play for many reasons. about violence in our world course as students, parents,
and I see the theatre as the faculty, a school? Where do
First, I knew it would be a safest place to explore that our loyalties lie? Will we treat
challenge, and Pennington issue. How much is too much people with respect and see
Drama is always up for a bloodshed? As our own the world through hopeful
challenge. In addition, since country faces struggles on eyes, or will we succumb to the
our trip last summer to the many levels and a change “black and deep desires” that
Edinburgh Fringe, I continue to in regime, this play gives us the Scottish King did? I believe
be entranced by Scotland and something to ponder about in this School, this country,
all of its history, legends, and ambition, fate, destiny, and and most of all, I believe that
national pride – it is an amazing taking personal action to forge theatre is capable of providing
country and a fascinating your own path in life. What us with magic. Not the magic
setting for a play. Violence, is right and what is wrong? of the Weird Sisters, but magic,
blood, and destruction are as Can one person change the nonetheless.
much a part of our culture as course of their own life, the
they were in Shakespeare’s lives of others, a kingdom,
time, to be sure.
 O N CA MPU S 28
03

Winter Play 2009: The Wizard of Oz lacking the quality that we think we
Many people who know me well were really need—whether it is beauty, brains,
surprised when I chose a classic and strength, wisdom, determination, creativity
beloved tale such as The Wizard of Oz to —or merely the brain, the heart, and the
tell on our stage this winter. (I’m usually nerve to do what we need to do. We look
attracted to darker musicals). After the in the mirror and we search for that other
bloodshed of “The Scottish Play,” it was self—the one with all the power. It can be
apparent that something lighter was in discouraging and even frustrating. But,
order. I thought that because Oz was all if you dig deep, with a little hard work,
rainbow-colored goodness, and a familiar soul-searching, trust, and patience, you
story, that somehow, it would be easier can usually find it—right there inside you
to mount this production—that it would all along. It just takes a short journey inside
involve less thinking and brain power. Boy, your heart and mind to realize it was there.
was I wrong. So for me, that one image led to all the
other images of this show. It got me back
First of all, I have to commend my students on the path with my friends a few of the
and colleagues. Without them, this would times when I was wandering through the
be a shell of a story. They came through forest thinking I was lost.
for me again and again with amazing ideas
and solutions to issues. When you direct If you are a purist, you might not agree
something as intense as the fall play was, with my vision. Our approach is not exactly
traditional. But, if you came expecting TOP: Danielle Gabai ’09, Don
it takes some time to recover. So, as we
something colorful, familiar and warm – Nuzzio ’10, and Sathya Andavolu ’09
started on this journey, I was not fully on as members of the Lollipop Guild.
the road with everyone else. I found my you should be very satisfied.
BOTTOM: Cast members
thoughts wandering. Decisions seemed
celebrate Dorothy’s return to Oz.
impossible. I only had one very clear idea
—and that was a mirror image of the main TOP LEFT: Ali Crivelli ’10 as
characters of this play standing in the the Scarecrow and Hannah
Schindewolf ’09 as Dorothy.
poppy field. And so, I went with it. That
image, to me, is what this story is really FACING PAGE: Tom Provine
about—that sometimes, when we look in ’10, Claire Reinganum ’11, in an
the mirror, we don’t recognize the person emotional scene from Macbeth
we are looking at. We see ourselves PHOTO: Jim Inverso
03 S
ONT U DEN
CAMPUS
T/ CAMPUS L I FE

SIP-N-BID
Pennington School Fundraiser

Congratulations to The Pennington School Parents Association on a very

successful Sip-N-Bid fundraiser this past fall at the Trenton Country Club.
More than 50 volunteers made this outstanding event possible and 250
members of the Pennington community attended. This one event raised over
$115,000 for The Pennington School.
TOP : Faculty member Lisa McManus
P ‘09, and fellow senior parents Jay
and Susan Allen P‘09.

BOTTOM: Members of the Sip-N-Bid

volunteer committee.
 O N CA MPU S 30

Green Cup
Challenge
During the month of February, The our previous three Februaries by a terrific
Pennington School participated in the 14 percent.
annual Green Cup Challenge (GCC).
Those results placed Pennington fifth in
Launched in 2006 by Phillips Exeter
the nation after week one. By week two,
Academy, Northfield Mount Hermon, and
the School ranked fourth.
the Lawrenceville School to raise students’
energy conservation awareness, the Aggregate energy reduction in the final
GCC has developed into an international two weeks measured an impressive 23
competition involving more than 200 percent—leading to a final aggregate
schools. Currently, the Challenge focuses reduction of 19 percent over the entire
on reducing electricity consumption on
campus, but the organizers expect to
broaden the competition in future years to
other areas of environmental impact such
as waste and water use.

TPS’s effort involved all students and

faculty in planning for, and participating in,
the challenge. The primary purpose of the
GCC is to bring the whole school together
to better understand the difficulties
facing our environment, to work as a
TPS ENERGY REDUCTION
team to overcome those difficulties, and
to share and implement innovative ideas
throughout the year. Although the GCC
month. When the final numbers came in,
only lasts a month, the School hopes that
Pennington ranked second in the nation in
the lessons learned will encourage all of
energy reduction in the boarding school
us to be mindful of our environment at all
category—an accomplishment of which
times.
the entire Pennington community can be
TPS has made sustainability a school-wide proud.
theme for this academic year and this
According to faculty member Ken Gaissert,
past summer’s reading list had a focus
chair of the Green Cup Challenge student-
on sustainability. Since the start of the
faculty committee, the fact that energy
school year, the Student Sustainability
reduction jumped from 14 percent in the
Committee, individual academic
first half of the month to 23 percent in the
departments, and the Middle School have
second half of the month only goes to
initiated more recycling on campus for
show that there is room for improvement
cans, paper and print cartridges. GCC
during next year’s challenge. And the
takes these efforts to a new level.
news gets better: the School measured
During the Challenge period, the energy consumption for the week after the
Pennington community received weekly Green Cup Challenge ended, and energy
email updates on the level of energy reduction remained at approximately
reduction accomplished. At the end of 19 percent below the same week last
the first week, as a campus we reduced year, which bodes well for the long-term
aggregate energy (electricity) consumption benefits of participation in this worthwhile
campus-wide compared to the average of event.
31 ON CAMPUS

WITNESSING HISTORY
Students Participate in Inaugural Events in Nation’s Capital and on Campus.
Pennington students, faculty, and staff for the event (see photo). Aside from the
commemorated the inauguration of natural drama of the day, Kelsey’s mom
Barack Obama as the nation’s 44th added to the excitement by dropping and
president on Tuesday, January 19, 2009. losing her ticket. According to Kelsey, “She
The inauguration fell during exam week, couldn’t get in, so my aunt and I went in
an inconvenient time for Upper School without her and she said she was going
students. However, this did not thwart to go watch it somewhere. On her walk
those determined to take part in the back, she randomly asked one guy if he
festivities in whatever way they were able. happened to have an extra ticket, and he
Some students arranged their schedules did! Some of his friends didn’t show up, so
so they could attend the inauguration in my mom got a ticket and somehow found
Washington, DC. Ten Pennington students us in the 2 million people there. It was
made their way individually down Route meant to be—we were supposed to be
95 to be in attendance. Their experiences there!”
ranged from attending the Congressional
Eleventh grader Hannah Knudsen also
Youth Leadership Council’s Presidential
made the trek to D.C. to attend the
Youth Inaugural Conference (PYIC) to
Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference.
taking part in some of the Inaugural Balls,
Knudsen had mixed feelings about
to simply experiencing the day as one of
the conference—the large number of
TOP : Kelsey Greener ‘09 joined the millions of others who wanted to be a
the crowds on Inauguration Day attendees led to some disorganization and
part of history.
miscommunications regarding the way in
ABOVE : Faculty member Chad Kelsey Greener ’09 attended the which attendees would experience the
Bridges ‘96 quizzes Middle
inauguration with her mother and aunt, inauguration itself. On the whole, Knudsen
School students on presidential
history. and was fortunate to have great seats found the experience a positive one: she
 O N CA MPU S 32

attended speeches by General Colin

Powell, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, former
Vice President Al Gore, and celebrated at
a formal event for conference participants
at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum.
As she puts it, “Overall I am so happy
to have attended this once-in-a-lifetime
event.”

Closer to home, Pennington students

who remained on campus also found
ways to make the day memorable. The
exam schedule was altered so that Upper
School students could watch the inaugural
address in small groups in the homes of
faculty members. The faculty and staff of
the Middle School organized a full day
of activities, beginning with an inaugural
continental breakfast. In actuality, the Middle
School students had been preparing for
helping to plan this day. As a committee
inauguration day for the entire fall semester.
and true team, they decided that students
According to history teacher and alumnus
could wear red, white and blue to get into
Chad Bridges ‘96, “This year’s election
the spirit of the day. Students could also
was unlike any other and our plan as a
dress black tie formal, but most stuck with
faculty was to take full advantage of the
the red, white and blue. Student Council
opportunity.” Semester activities included
members, including Logan Campbell ’14,
mock voter registration, studying political
and siblings Hayden (’14) and Casey (’15)
videos, and participating in the National
McGovern also helped with decorating
Student/Parent Mock Election which
the Black Box Theatre for the big day.
garnered a nationwide total of over 5.1
It was a great atmosphere. Our Parents
million votes. Bridges states, “To be part
Association put together a great lunch for
of this was special and more importantly
all the students and faculty complete with
our students felt like they were part of the
an inauguration cake.”
process. The inauguration celebration was
really the culminating activity in what was Students watched Barack Obama’s
an historic and memorable semester in the inaugural address live, and interacted
Middle School.” with Pennington students who reported
live on-site at the festivities in DC. The
On inauguration day, while the eighth-
day concluded with a Middle School “Yes
graders took exams, sixth- and seventh-
We Can” Inaugural Ball. Organized by
graders learned about past and current
drama teacher Lisa Houston (who wore her
poets who have been honored to speak
inaugural gown for the event), students
at presidential inaugurations in an activity
and faculty danced to a playlist culled from
designed by Lisa Kessel and Gayle Bruno,
music—from Bob Dylan to Usher—that
both of whom teach poetry in the Middle
President Obama had indicated were
School. Latin teacher Beth Yarnall, asked
favorites of his. The inaugural parade
students to come up with Latin words that
provided a live video background for the
related to all aspects of government. In the
day’s culmination, an event that likely will
Black Box Theatre, which was decorated by
stay in the memories of Middle Schoolers
the Middle School student council in red,
for years to come.
white, and blue for the occasion, students
TOP : Middle School students
competed in a presidential trivia “hot met in the Black Box Theatre,
seat” competition, and heard and saw past specially decorated for the
inaugural speeches. occasion.

The day’s events were a genuine team BOTTOM: Hannah Knudsen ’10
(center) with some new friends in
effort, says Bridges, “Our middle school
Washington, DC on Inauguration
student council did a phenomenal job Day.
33 ON CAMPUS

PENNINGTON’s
The sixth grade class World Cultures
curriculum is broad in geographic scope
and, Kessel says, “tries to break away

PACHYDERM
from the traditional plaster molds of
continents and country capital drills as
a means of educating the students.”
Kessel has designed a project called
TPS Sixth Graders Adopt Kenyan Elephant “Passport to...” which includes researching
countries, geographical elements and
cultures. All of the research performed
for Africa, Europe, Asia and Oceania will
be included in a paginated passport
booklet. Another major facet of the World
Cultures curriculum is art. “Art connects
us to culture, history and humanity,” states
Kessel.

“Students are reproducing works of art

by famous European artists while getting
a heavy dose of art history. The written
reports that accompany their projects
strengthen their writing ability and
research skills.”

The elephant adoption is tied to a research

project that explored the plight of the
African elephant. “Ivory Wars” was a
National Geographic documentary that
focused on the ivory trade and elephant
The Pennington School’s sixth poaching. The students studied and
grade class have been studying researched this heart-tugging issue, then
Africa, and recently the class wrote an essay revealing their findings.
pulled together to adopt an Students created African Adinkra textiles
elephant through the African and paper beaded necklaces were created
Wildlife Foundation. Each while being serenaded by African drum
member of the class, including music and songs sung in Swahili. Kessel
their teacher, Lisa Kessel, says that adopting Oltupai brought the
brought in one dollar to make reality of wildlife conservation in Africa
up the full $25 cost of adopting home to her Pennington students, “I think
an elephant. Their donation the best way to teach a culture is to be
will go towards helping an elephant immersed in it.”
named Oltupai, one of the dominant
Kessel hopes to continue to follow
bull elephants in the Amboseli Elephant
that philosophy by forming an “E-PAL”
Research Project in Kenya. According to
relationship between her sixth grade class
Head of Middle School Todd Paige, “The
and young students at The American
kids are proud of the little part they played
School in Switzerland (TASIS). Her class
in helping protect this imperiled species.”
read Sharon Creech’s “Bloomability,”
Once presumed killed, remarkably, Oltupai about a young girl’s adventure as a student
showed up (with many families that had at TASIS, and Kessel is working with a
not been seen in Amboseli for four years) teacher at TASIS to foster this connection.
in Tanzania’s West Kilimanjaro Area.
According to his biography on the African
Wildlife Foundation’s Web site, he tends to
TOP : Students created a herd of seek shade in an oltupai thicket during the
elephants in clay. heat of the day, which is the inspiration for
BOTTOM: The sixth graders his name.
show some pachyderm pride.
 O N CA MPU S 34

TPS FIGHTS
The Pennington School community
continued a seven-year tradition by
creating handmade ceramic bowls to

HUNGER WITH
support the Empty Bowls Project to
fight hunger. Bowls made by talented
Pennington School students, faculty, and

Empty bowls
staff were exhibited and available for sale
at the School’s Silva Gallery of Art during a
two-week span in December. All proceeds
from bowl sales are donated to the Trenton
Area Soup Kitchen. Project Benefits Trenton Area Soup Kitchen
The School has taken part in the Empty
Bowls Project since 2001. Michigan
potters John Hartom and Lisa Blackburn
established the project as a tool to work
toward the eradication of world hunger;
its name is a symbolic reminder that many
people’s bowls are empty of food. In
the original project model, after potters
volunteer their time, talent, and materials
to make the bowls, guests are invited
for a simple meal of soup and bread in
exchange for a minimum $10 donation.
The guests select a bowl to use that day
and to keep as a reminder of the world’s
many empty bowls. All proceeds are
given to a hunger-prevention organization
either within the local community or at the
national or international level.

Although Pennington students do not

include a meal as part of their observance,
they honor the project’s principles by
sending all money from sale of the bowls
to the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (T.A.S.K.)
and often present a program that educates TOP : A collection of Empty
the School community about hunger at the Bowls.
world, national, and local levels.
BOTTOM: Students working
together for a worthy cause.
03 S T U DEN T/ CAMPUS L I FE

VOLUNTEER HARVEST
FEEDS HUNGRY
TPS International Students Pick Produce for Farmers Against Hunger
In October, Pennington School Chaplain Chuck Coblenz accompanied ten TPS international students to a farm in Florence
Township to pick peppers, eggplants, and tomatoes for Farmers Against Hunger. Farmers Against Hunger (FAH) is a unique
food rescue program that collects fresh fruits and vegetables from New Jersey farms and distributes it, free of charge, to
organizations that help feed people. Started in 1996 by a few area farmers, the program now includes nearly 50 farmers,
three grocery store chains, and two produce wholesalers who support the program year-round. According to Coblenz, “Judy
Grignon, the director of FAH, told us that the crops we harvested that day would be eaten by needy families that night! The
kids were great and filled dozens of baskets.”
 O N CA MPU S 36

DISCUSSION SERIES
TACKLES FINANCIAL
CHALLENGES

On Tuesday, February 10, members production), and explained the reasons

of the Pennington community were for the continuing troubles in the financial
treated to an informative and engaging sector.
panel discussion on the state of the U.S.
McCarthy is co-founder of Stone &
and world economy. “Setting National
McCarthy Research Associates (SMRA),
Priorities: Financial Challenges Facing
based in Princeton, with offices around
the New Administration” was the topic
the world. The firm provides independent
addressed by F. Ward McCarthy, Jr., Ph.D.
financial market and economic research;
P'03 '09, and Marc R. Reinganum, Ph.D.
McCarthy supervises and directs fixed
P'08 '11, both experts in the field. The
income research. He is also responsible for
event was the first in the School’s new
the SMRA analysis of the Treasury market,
InPerson Discussion Series, designed to
the federal budget, and Treasury debt
address issues of topical importance to the
financing, among other areas.
Pennington community.
Reinganum is senior portfolio manager
The discussion was deftly moderated by
for the Main Street Fund and the Main
Katherine H. Littlefield P'06 '09, member of
Street Small Cap and Opportunity
The Pennington School Board of Trustees.
Funds at OppenheimerFunds. Prior to
Topics ranged from the history of the
joining OppenheimerFunds in 2003, he
economic crisis, including the exploration
was the Mary Jo Vaughn Rauscher Chair
of several key events and trends that led
in Financial Investments at Southern
to the mortgage crisis and credit crunch,
Methodist University, where he also served
to the prospects for the future five to ten
as director of the Finance Institute and
years. The speakers compared the current
chairman of the Finance Department. His TOP LEFT: Ward McCarthy, Ph.D.
economic situation to a "heart attack,"
research interests include investments in
a "forest fire," and The Wizard of Oz (the TOP RIGHT: Marc Reinganum, Ph.D.
general and stock market anomalies in
lecture took place on the same stage
particular.
that would soon hold the winter musical
37 ON CAMPUS

A SPIRITED
MLK CELEBRATION
Pennington Students Join Renowned Performers to Honor
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
On Tuesday, January 13, the Diversity Office, along with the Arts
and History departments, brought King Alive!: The Dream Lives to
campus for a Chapel service celebrating the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr. The performance featured Dr. King’s final speeches as
interpreted by Craig Alan Edwards, the star and writer of the
upcoming off-Broadway production, The Man in Room 306, about
the last night of Dr. King’s life. In addition to the speeches, the
Pennington Upper School Chorus, under the direction of William
Alford, sang three accompanying pieces after three rehearsals
with a special soloist, the multitalented Fredi Walker Browne,
best known for her work in the original production of Broadway’s
hit musical, Rent. The students and faculty alike were spellbound
for the full hour of motivating words and music. It was a Chapel
service that will remain in memory for years to come.
—Faculty member, Barrington Fulton

Photo: Jennifer Osolinski ’10

 O N CA MPU S 03

homefront
TPS Community Brings Holiday Cheer To Area’s Less Fortunate
On Saturday, December 20, The basketball in the gym with the Varsity Boys’
Pennington School hosted its eighteenth Basketball team; or do arts and crafts in
annual HomeFront Holiday Party. Over 100 the student center.
student, faculty, and family volunteers gave
As a special bonus, due to the generosity
their time to serve as hosts, guides, clean-
of The Pennington School community, The
up crews, dance partners, and playmates
Pennington School was able to donate to
to the record 450-plus guests from
HomeFront over $1,000, which is enough
HomeFront. HomeFront is a Lawrenceville,
money to help a family get started in
New Jersey-based organization that seeks
their own apartment. Students, faculty,
to end homelessness in Central New
staff, and families also contributed new
Jersey by harnessing the caring, resources
or gently used warm coats in a drive over
and expertise of the community.
the past weeks, and since returning from
All families in attendance were treated Thanksgiving break had festooned the
to a turkey dinner provided by Sodexo “Giving Tree” in the Stainton Hall lobby
and Pennington’s dining hall staff. Over with hats, scarves, and gloves to be
300 gifts were distributed to parents to distributed at the party.
present to their children on Christmas
In these uncertain economic times,
morning. The gifts were either donated
organizations such as HomeFront are
by Pennington students and faculty or
more needed—and needy—than
purchased with money raised through
ever as their client population steadily
a dress-down day the week before the
increases. Happily, the members of the
holiday break. Pennington School Peer
Pennington community were able to
Leaders spearhead the gift drive and take
give of themselves through monetary
overall responsibility for volunteering.
donations, contributions of presents, and
Children had the opportunity to visit volunteering their time. This considerable
with Santa Claus or Frosty the Snowman effort is a continuing reminder of the strength
ABOVE LEFT: A jolly group of
(portrayed by alumna Celeste Murphy of the Pennington Spirit.
TPS volunteers.
’01, who returned for the occasion); play
ABOVE RIGHT: Celeste Murphy ‘01
as Frosty the Snowman with faculty
member and co-director of peer
leadership at the 2008 Homefront
holiday party.
03 S T U DEN T/ CAMPUS L I FE

Donors interested in supporting Pennington through a transfer of funds from an IRA can now
take advantage of a two-year extension of the IRA Rollover provision included in the $700 billion
economic bailout bill signed in October, 2008.
The provision will be made retroactive to Jan. 1, 2008, and will apply to gifts made from that date
through Dec. 31, 2009. The provision had expired at the end of 2007.
The provision exempts from taxable income any funds transferred (“rolled over”) from an Individual
Retirement Account (IRA) to a charitable organization. The following limitations apply:
• The donor must be age 70½ or older.
• The cap on annual IRA rollovers is $100,000.
• The contribution must be a direct gift to a charity (no planned gifts).

For more information on supporting

The Pennington School, contact
Matthew Goetting at (609) 737-6103.
RED RAIDER ROUNDUP
41 S
03 ATTU
HDEN
LE TICS
T/ CAMPUS L I FE

TPS VARSITY GIRLS SOCCER REACHES NEW HEIGHTS

of the season with a knee injury, and then

traveled to New Zealand to play with the
U-17 Women’s National Team at the first
Under 17 World Cup. The team won both
the Prep A championship and the Mercer
County Tournament. At the annual NSCAA
convention in St. Louis, Missouri, three of
the lady Red Raiders received first team
All-America recognition with Amber
Brooks named the female 2008 National
High School Scholar Athlete of the Year.
Both she and senior Heidi Sabatura were
selected for the Scholar All-America
team. Junior Kailtyn Kerr was selected
by both ESPN and NSCAA as a first team
All-America selection. Pennington was
the only high school this year to have
fielded three students in the All-America
categories. Coach Bill Hawkey was named
The Pennington School Varsity Girls the 2008 National Coach of the Year (see
Soccer Team once again set the bar at a story at right). Co-Coach Patrick Murphy
new height after their 2008 Fall season. has been on the sideline with Hawkey for
The Red Raiders registered their best the past 12 years in which time the team
season in history with a 17-0-1 record and has had a record of 199-33-12. Hawkey and
a National Soccer Coaches Association of Murphy’s teams in the past six years have
America/Adidas (NSCAA) ranking as the #1 been in the top 20 national rankings as well
team in the country. This accomplishment as earning six consecutive Team Academic
TOP : The 2009 Varsity Girls is even more impressive since Amber Awards from the NSCAA for having a team
Soccer Team celebrates their
Brooks, member of Parade Magazine’s GPA of 3.6 or higher.
victory as 4-time Mercer County
Champs. All-America team, was sidelined for much

BOYS TEAM CAPTUREs HEARTS & TITLE

The 2008 Boys Soccer Team registered

significant team accomplishments this past
fall as they set a boys’ team record with
21 wins along the way to capturing the
NJ Prep State Championship. The boys
were also the Mercer County Tournament
runner-up this year, which represents the
best finish for the boys at this competitive
county-wide tournament.
 AT HLET ICS 42

Varsity Swimming Teams post dual championships

For the first time, the varsity boys and girls swim teams both won the NJISAA State Championships! The girls finished with
a record of 7-3 while the boys record was 8-2. The teams also won the Patriot Championships as well as placed 4th at the
MCT’s against 14 other group III and IV public schools. Two new school records were written this season by Freshman Carly
Deeter in the Girls 100 Breaststroke and the Girls 200 Medley relay, with teammates Carly Gurick ‘11, Alyssa Hullings ‘11 and
Galen Sylk ‘10.

The Boys’ Varsity Basketball team celebrates their first

Mercer County Tournament win by defeating the number-
one seed West Windsor-Plainsboro South

After struggling to a 7-17 record last

season, the boys’ varsity basketball team
added some impact newcomers while
returning players improved their games
and got a year older, wiser, and more
experienced. The Red Raiders jumped
out to a 5-0 start this season that included
a double-digit win over archrival, PDS.
Another rival, Hopewell Valley, was the
next victim, which came just a day after the
team’s first loss of the season. Three more
wins followed the win over Hopewell, and
then came a rough patch, as the squad
lost back-to-back games and four out of
six, dropping their record to 11-5. Head
Coach Bernie Gurick and Assistant Coach
Chad Bridges then re-directed the team,
and reeled off a nine-game winning streak
that included wins over PDS and Gill St.
Bernard’s in the Prep B state tournament,
Photo: Mike Dill
and MCT victories over Hopewell,
defending champion Trenton Central, and second-seeded Princeton, which came at MCCC. After falling by seven points
in the Prep B state title to Rutgers Prep, the team rebounded for its third game in three days by knocking off 20-win West
Windsor-Plainsboro South, the number one seed in the MCT and in the Central Jersey Group IV sectional tournament, by
a whopping 16 points to win the Mercer County Tournament, ending the year at 21-6, and completing a fantastic turnaround.
43 AT H LE TICS

Pennington Varsity Ice Hockey Captures the Regular

Season Independent Hockey League title!

The Pennington School Varsity Ice Hockey team led by captain Sean McCarthy ‘09, and assistant captains Hank Littlefield
‘09, Charlie Meneghin ‘09, and James Osterstock ‘09 as well as seniors Mike Allen, Spencer Bonapace, and Liam McManus
battled with five other teams to win the inaugural (regular) season of the Independent Hockey League (IHL). The team
overcame numerous injuries to key players in a season filled with excitement; the team played hard every game and fought
until the final buzzer sounded.

Hawkey NAMED National Coach of the Year

A Banner Year for Beloved TPS Coach

ABOVE: Coach Hawkey and

Amber Brooks—named female
2008 NSCAA/adidas High School
Scholar Athlete of the year at
the national convention’s
awards banquet.

Pennington School Girls’ Soccer Coach Bill Hawkey, (above,center) has been named National Coach of the Year in the High
School Girls Private/Parochial category by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA). After his selection
as NSCAA East Regional Coach of the Year in the private/parochial high school category earlier in the postseason, the
national award was announced at the national convention’s awards banquet in St. Louis in January.

The NSCAA announcement praised Hawkey for leading the team to its ranking and titles this year and noted, “In addition
to claiming its 14th conference championship, [The] Pennington School has also earned the NSCAA Team Academic Award
and was the New Jersey Prep Team of the Year each of the past six years.”

Hawkey, who passed the 300-win mark this fall, has been head coach of girls’ soccer at Pennington for 24 years; his career
record as coach to date is 311–93–26. Hawkey is The Pennington School’s assistant head of school and head of upper school.
 AT HLET ICS 44

Highlights from the Pennington Athletics Program

Middle School

MS Football
The Middle School Football program had
MS Cross Country another successful year. The team was
Pennington’s Middle School Cross Country small in numbers but large in heart and
team had a successful season. Each runner determination. The coaches are proud of
on this team has a reason to be proud of what this team accomplished this year.
his/her season: meeting a goal, winning a
race, battling to the finish, pushing through MS Girls’ Basketball
pain, running a personal best time.
The 2008-09 season was one for
developing a team and enjoying the
process. We had four well-fought victories
that showcased the girls’ newfound
abilities. Coach Van Beveren trusts that
other members of the team will progress
into starting positions and continue our
success in basketball.

MS Field Hockey
Last year, the Middle School girls field
hockey team practiced for an entire
season, in preparation for competing as
a recognized school sport in fall 2008.
Fundamentals were the main focus, but
rules of play, strategy and field work were
an additional emphasis as the team got
ready to play nine games in their first official
season. They opened the season with a close
2-1 loss to Moorestown Friends Academy.
Upper School

Boys’ Basketball, JV
The boys JV basketball team had three
thrilling come-from-behind last minute
45 S
03 ATTU
HDEN
LE TICS
T/ CAMPUS L I FE

victories. The boys on the team were great Girls’ Tennis, Varsity
teammates who supported and cheered
It was a building year for varsity tennis this
wildly for each other. We celebrated our
year. With a record of 4–8–1, this relatively
Chinese teammates with a wonderful
young team worked hard to improve their
dinner at a Chinese restaurant and our
skills.
American teammates with a dinner at
White Castle. Everybody had a wonderful
time this year.

Boys’ Soccer, JV
JV Boys’ Soccer had an exciting and
successful season. Their record was 7 wins,
3 losses, and 1 tie. The team defeated
Lawrenceville, Hun, PDS (twice), Rutgers
Prep (twice) and Gill. For the first time in
many years, Boys JV Soccer defeated or
tied all of the Mercer County prep school
teams.
Football, JV and Varsity
The 2008 Pennington Red Raiders
displayed tremendous dedication and
enthusiasm throughout the season.
According to Coach Eure, “Despite the
fact that we won only four games this
season, we had some of the most exciting
home wins in many years, capping off our
first win in seven years over a tough Bristol
ON THE RUN team on Homecoming day.”

In what could be called the Girls’ Soccer, JV

most successful Cross Country
According to Coach Egan, “The JV Girls’
season for an individual at The
Soccer Team is a young team with a bright
Pennington School, senior Phil
Wood set course records (5K future. The team faced some very tough
or 3.1 miles) at Princeton Day competition this year, but the girls rose
School, Peddie, and at the to the occasion and gave 100 percent in
Newark Invitational. He won every game.”
first place at the Paul Short
Invitational at Lehigh University,
and second place at the Patriot
Conference Championships,
Boys’ Cross Country, Varsity
leading the varsity boys team
to a championship. He placed Highlights included a Patriot Conference
second at State Championships, championship, and a very close second at
as well as at the Mercer County States. Times at States dropped from 21:10
Championships. His fourth place per runner to 18:20 per runner – a great
finish at the Footlocker Northeast accomplishment.
Regional Championships
qualified him for the National
Championships. He placed
30th at the Footlocker National
Championships in San Diego Girls’ Tennis, JV
running 16:04 in the 5,000 meter
Coach McManus reports, “This year the JV
race. Phil was selected for the
Tennis Team memorized the 10 point and
First Team All State Prep team
and he is a scholarship winner for 12 point tie-breaker set due to all our close
track at the University of Texas. matches! Thanks to all the girls, we had a
wonderful season!”
 AT HLET ICS 46

Girls’ Cross Country, Varsity

The team placed third at the Patriot Field Hockey, Varsity
Conference meet and third at States. Cheerleading, Varsity
Coach Malloy reports, “The challenges
Average times on the same course The girls worked hard to incorporate of the season are behind us; each
went from 24:49 to 22:55 – eight new skills into their routines. They game helped to make us stronger. I am
percent faster than last year added many new cheers and surprised looking forward to next year; fortitude
the crowd with their new stunts. For is our greatest gift.”
the first time, the cheerleaders also
brought music and dances to football
games.

THE

FRANCIS
HARVEY
GREEN
SOCIE T Y
Dr. Green’s legacy to Pennington encompassed far
more than the letters, manuscripts, and books he
presented to the School on his retirement. His legacy
lives on in the School’s commitment to academic
excellence and respect for each individual that was
the hallmark as a teacher and administrator. In order to
perpetuate his good work, the Francis Harvey Green
Society was formed to provide for The Pennington
School’s future through planned giving. The Society
recognizes those who have made a provision for the
School in their estate plans and encourages others
to make such plans. Provisions include bequests,
charitable remainder trusts and lead trusts, life
insurance policies, and IRA’s. If you are interested
in making a planned gift to Pennington, please
contact Matt Goetting, Director of Development, at
[email protected] or (609) 737-6103.
47 AT H LE TICS

A Cinderella Story
Gutsy Performance Propels Young Team to Victory
As I walked into the building with my four-year-old daughter, Daisy, the familiar scent of
chlorine guided us to the pool that, just an hour later, would prove to be the location
“We have a great of one of the great rallies in sports history. I may exaggerate (but only a little). “I smell
pool!” Daisy shouted happily, running down the hall, with a princess purse full of play
team, but we are jewelry. (We carry it everywhere.)

still working on Decked out in our black and red for Pennington’s Homecoming, we didn’t know
quite what to expect from the Red Raider water polo team, who were set to battle
some things. If Friends Central. My husband (a.k.a. Coach Bill Hutnik) was honest about chances for
we can pull it all a Homecoming victory when we spoke before the game. “We have a great team,”
he said. “But we are still working on some things. If we can pull it all together, we can
together, we can win.” His tempered optimism was understandable. This season fields the School’s first
all-Pennington squad; last year featured a shared TPS/Hun team. So there are lots of
win.” new players on board, who Hutnik describes as “fantastic in terms of team energy and
—Coach Bill Hutnik potential, but challenging when we’re playing well-established programs that have been
in place for years. But,” he adds after a moment, “we’re gonna get there.” I’ve heard this
steel in his voice before. Coach Hutnik was a competitive swimmer and water polo player
in high school and college. So don’t be fooled by his quiet demeanor: This guy wants to
win.

Playing in front of a great crowd at the Michael T. Martin Aquatic Center, the Raiders
started all four senior players for their final Homecoming: Matt Angelo, Hank Littlefield,
captain and returning player John Tarchis in the field, and Mike Allen in goal. The
match was 0–0 at the end of the first quarter, but Friends Central took the lead 1–0 in
the second. A second goal followed quickly, as Friends capitalized on a TPS kickout.
 AT HLET ICS 48

Though the team trailed 2–0, the crowd shots. But we played great defense the
stayed with the underdog Raiders, cheering whole game, and in the fourth quarter,
several breakaways by returning player when our shooting finally came around,
Jimmy Hrabchak ‘11 and powerful passing by our defense continued to hold tight.” They
returning player Bank Phromratanapongse ‘10. were right. And the entire team should get
“Go, Pennington!” screamed Daisy, who credit for that defense: Alyssa Hullings,
put on her Cinderella necklace and rings Chris Gianoni, and returning player
in the middle of the second quarter “for Laura Podsiadlo put in great defensive
luck,” she explained. performances.

She might have been on to something, I could see Coach Hutnik mulling over
because TPS turned on their offense. the game the whole rest of the day,
Shooting accuracy improved, and the considering drills, thinking about plays,
crowd really had something to celebrate planning the next game. But even the ever-
when Tarchis scored Pennington’s first goal measured Coach Hutnik would stop ever
two minutes into the third quarter. After we so often throughout Saturday afternoon
were finished screaming, I told Daisy not and turn to Daisy and me with a big smile.
to touch the jewelry. Friends capitalized “Did you see the team today? That was
on another Pennington kickout to take the totally awesome!”
lead 3–1 at 5:25 in the third quarter, but for
All I can say is, I’m hooked. It was inspiring
the remainder of the quarter Pennington
to watch the team turn itself around and
stayed ferocious and denied Friends any
power through to win that game. Just as
more scoring opportunities.
inspiring was the post-game match, where
Pennington’s momentum continued, and Coaches Keogh and Hutnik watched with
in the fourth and final quarter Wes Lincoln pride as all their rookies held their own
scored the Red Raiders’ second goal 1:24 and played smart, determined water polo.
in, bringing the score to 3–2. Minutes later, Every player brought something valuable
Phromratanapongse tied the game 3–3. to that pool on Saturday, and that’s great
And then Hrabchak put Pennington ahead to see. I will certainly be back, cheering
for good, scoring the team’s fourth goal. If this crew on in future matches. And if you
you did not see the fourth quarter of this see Coach Hutnik wearing Cinderella’s
match, you missed a thrilling turnaround, tiara or rings, just go with it.
and a hard-fought win by the Raiders. As —Amy Hutnick
the players climbed out of the pool, all
smiles, Daisy turned to me. “Mama, can I
take off this jewelry?”

The team celebrated the first all-

Pennington squad victory in the School’s Water Polo JV
history, and the excitement in the air was
This season, Pennington Water Polo fielded 18 players, 13 of them new to
palpable. Coach Hutnik was typically
the sport. The collaboration between new and returning players produced
measured: “That was great, you guys. You
excellent results, highlighted by a come-from-behind win over Friends Central
just won the first all-Pennington squad
at Homecoming, two victories over local rival The Lawrenceville School, and a
victory in water polo!” The team cheered
second place finish at the Garden State Championship.
wildly. “But,” the coach continued, “get
ready for shooting drills on Monday,
because your shooting in the first two
quarters was terrible.” OK, so the guy
needs some finesse in his post-game pep
talks.

Later, Coaches Keogh and Hutnik analyzed

the win. “We won that game because of
our defense. We had some great chances,
and we did not do well capitalizing on
03 A LUMN I

homecoming
W eekend 2 0 0 8

S eptem b e r 2 6 - 2 7
A LU MNI 03
51 S
03 ATLUMN
U DENI T/ CAMPUS L I FE

Class notes
Class of 1942
Class Agent needed. Please call Joanne
McGann at (609) 737 6149 if you would like
Class of 1932 to volunteer.

Class Agent and Decade Chair:

Class of 1943
Herb Sloane 2919 Jamestown Drive
Montgomery, AL 36111–1210 Class Agent: Stanley Holmes, Jr.
(334) 832–2413 2832 Spring Haven Place
[email protected] Macungie, PA 18062
(610) 965–3657
Class of 1933 [email protected]

Class Agent: Ellsworth Rosenberg

Class of 1944
8500 W. Sunrise Blvd. Apt. 308
Plantation, FL 33322 65th Reunion – October 16–17, 2009
[email protected] Class Agent: Bruce Poynter
Cottage 7, 7351 Willow Rd.
Class of 1935 Frederick, MD 21702
Class Agent needed. Please call Joanne (240) 629–1956
McGann at (609) 737 6149 if you would like [email protected]
to volunteer.
Class of 1945
Class Agent: Bob Schenkel
28 Northampton B
West Palm Beach, FL 33417
(561) 683–5759
[email protected]

Class of 1946
Class Agent: Dick Sharrett
961 Raritan Road
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
(908) 757–5526
[email protected]
Dr. Stanley Apple stopped by for a
Dick Sharrett presented a paper on
surprise visit in September, along with his
Resiliency Health Care Systems at the
wife, Virginia, and daughter, Carolyn. Dr. Apple
annual meeting of the Gerontological
was unable to attend the Athletic Hall
Society of America in Maryland in
of fame ceremony in 2006, the year he
November 2008.
was inducted, so in addition to seeing
a bit of the campus, he visited the Hall
Class of 1947
in the gymnasium lobby. Dr. Apple is
doing very well and wishes to say hello Class Agent: John Vaccaro
to all classmates and schoolmates who 38 Wiltshire Drive
remember him. Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
(609) 530-0331
Class of 1936 [email protected]

Class Agent: C. Kenneth Snyder Donald Maxwell resides in Ann Arbor, MI.
5617 Namakagan Rd. Don was born in Paris, lived in England,
Bethesda, MD 20816–1924 and attended Pennington for five years
during World War II. He holds two Ph.D.
Class of 1940 degrees from the University of Cambridge
(Faculty of Medicine) and from the
Class Agent: Tim Osborne
University of Michigan (French). He spent
522 Kingfisher Road
= Reunion Year many years in biomedical research and is
Sugar Land, TX 77478–4705
(281) 494–7406
 A LU MNI 52

the author of numerous publications on having some serious illnesses, he remains

physiology and pharmacology. Before upbeat and active in community work. He
retiring, he was executive vice president has been a supporter of Pennington and
for scientific affairs of a U.S. corporation. hopes to visit the School in the near future.
He has published two autobiographies
Don Brown resides in La Cañada
and is presently writing a novel. He enjoys
Flintridge, CA, and is a retired engineer.
reflecting on his wonderfully special days
He was at Pennington for four years and
at Pennington.
was active in sports, especially soccer.
Jack Russell resides in West Palm Beach, He has been a supporter of the School,
FL, with his wife, Debby. Over the years coming to reunions all the way from
Jack has dabbled in the fine art of painting. California. Don says he appreciates
He now owns a picture-framing business, the good education he received at
which includes photo restorations. Pennington, saying it helped him when he
Last year he underwent an angioplasty attended Colorado State.
procedure, but since then he has fully
Arthur Georgaklis and his wife, Connie,
recovered and is back to playing golf. [He
reside in Brookline, MA, and spend their
would enjoy hearing from his Florida winter
winters in West Palm Beach, FL. Art
neighbors, Art Georgaklis and Dwight
attended Pennington for two years. He was
Duryea, at (561) 793–7360.] Jack has been
the senior class president and a member of
a faithful supporter of the School and his
the Tri-Steps Honor Society. He has been a
class for over sixty years, saying the five
loyal supporter of the School for over sixty
years he spent at Pennington were the
years, attending reunions and contributing
best thing that ever happened to him.
to the Annual Fund.
Tommy Haje resides in Wilmington, DE,
John Vaccaro is retired from owning and
with his wife of 57 years, Midge. They have
operating a sod farm and lives with his wife
three children and five grandchildren.
of over 50 years, Robbie, in Lawrenceville,
Last summer he underwent major open-
NJ. Today he spends time with his
heart surgery, but he has fully recovered
family and is active with his church. John
and looks forward to playing golf again
attended Pennington for two years, when
and spending time at the shore. He
he starred as an all-state football player
treasures his memories of his five years
and an undefeated wrestler and also was
at Pennington and is very proud of the
a member of the Tri-Steps Honor Society.
Class of 1947, which has been described in
After Pennington he attended Milligan
Pennington Magazine as “outstanding.”
College in Tennessee. He has been an
He wants again to thank his classmates
active supporter of The Pennington
for their support during the class’s 60th
School for over sixty years, attending and
reunion, which the School honored by
coordinating class reunions and helping
presenting 1947 the Cupola Award.
with fundraising.
Elliot Halio resides in Charleston, SC,
Dwight Duryea grew up in Ramsey, NJ.
where he is actively involved in his own
He and his wife, Kathleen, divide their time
law firm. He has experienced some health
between their homes in Jupiter, FL, and
problems over the last few years but is
Rutland, VT. For several years Dwight has
doing better and has resumed his golfing.
successfully operated his own business,
He attended Pennington for five years, and
“capping” trucks. Dwight attended
his brother Jay was graduated in 1946. He
Pennington for two years and was active
says at Pennington there were many great
in sports, playing varsity football and
times. He has fond memories of Dr. Green
basketball. He enjoyed his two years at
and Dean Jeffries. He describes his many
the School and made many friends there.
friends at Pennington as a “great bunch.”
He and Kathleen have attended School
Peter Pollock resides in Boca Raton, receptions held in Florida and class
FL. He graduated as number one in his reunions on campus. Dwight has been
Pennington class and went on to Williams generous in his support to the School over
College. He retired from the investment the years and was a leader during his 60th
business several years ago. Although class reunion project, helping the class win
53 A LUMN I

the Cupola Award as the outstanding class like that. Alice and I have two children,
that year. three grandchildren and five great-
grandchildren. All of them are wonderful
Class of 1948 people. We have been blessed, and it all
started with the wonderful start I received
Class Agent: James McKee
at The Pennington School. Teachers like
101 E St.
Mr. and Mrs. Manifold, Mr. Cressman, Mr.
Seaside Park, NJ 08752-1512
Marcus, and Dr. Crompton are especially
(732) 830-1307
memorable people.”
[email protected]

Al Navas and his wife, Barbara, have had Class of 1949

a busy couple of months visiting with
60th Reunion – October 16–17, 2009
children and grandchildren in Florida and
Virginia. Class Agent needed. Please call Joanne
McGann at (609) 737 6149 if you would like
Jim McKee writes, “We had a to volunteer.
successful reunion and a wonderful
groundbreaking ceremony for the Class of 1950
Veterans Monument during Alumni
Class Agent needed. Please call Joanne
Reunion weekend in September. Joining
McGann at (609) 737 6149 if you would like
us for the groundbreaking ceremony
to volunteer.
were Pennington students who sang and
a student who played Taps. We have
now raised over $20,000 dollars for the Class of 1951
Monument, but keep those donations Class Agent: Allan M. Blauth
coming. We hope to have this project PO Box 279
completed by Graduation in late May. I Solebury, PA 18963
want to thank Al Navas for spearheading (215) 297–8476 (215) 297–8934
the event as well as Henry Bernat, Paul [email protected]
Shoemacher, Herb Stiefel, and Elsie &
Tommy Todd for calling our classmates Class of 1952
and writing them. A member of the Class Class Agent: Vince Rockel
of 2005, West Point Cadet Spencer 1636 Caribean Drive
Garrison, is on the Planning Committee. Sarasota, FL 34231
Many, many thanks for your support for this (941) 924–8092
endeavor and I look forward to seeing you [email protected]
at the dedication.”
I am missing the addresses for a number of
Clifford Oakley recently passed away. our classmates. I will include two missing
Nick Pratt writes, “I was actually a veteran persons names in each publication of the
of World War II and decided to go back Pennington Magazine. Contact me with
to school after discharge (at 23 years your updates, new address, new email,
old, married, and with a sweet little baby and if you know the locations of Jerome
named Bonnie Linda that Alice and I just “Jerry” Weil and James “Jim” Hallo.
adored). After Pennington, I attended Thanks, “Turk” Rockel.
the School of Electrical Engineering at Chief Warrant Officer Erasmo “Tony”
Georgia Tech, graduated, and was recalled Chacon, Jr., retired to El Paso, TX, after
into the Navy for a tour of duty in Korea for 34 years with the U.S. Army. Tony is the
the Korean War. I became a test engineer father of five children. He would love to get
for Lockheed Aircraft Company and retired together and reminisce about the good
after a wonderful 34 years. I have had many old days at Pennington and would also like
hobbies that kept me busy, and most were to know the whereabouts of other Latin
family-associated. Examples are boating, American students. You can contact him at
camping, traveling, flying, and Boy Scouts. [email protected]
Those that were more associated with my
career were public speaking, management Robert “Bob” Morris writes that he
association, Society of Engineers, and stuff could be called a country boy because he
 A LU MNI 54

lives “where the Black Angus outnumber happened to him. Fred attended TPS from
humans!” After Pennington, Bob attended 1949 to 1954 and was the valedictorian of
the General Motors Institute for two years, the class of 1954. If anyone has information
spent four years with U.S. Air Force, and about Fred, please be in touch with
then returned to the Buick division of Associate Director of Alumni Relations
General Motors. After countless years he Joanne McGann, Director of Alumni
retired in 1988 to beautiful Allisonia, VA. Relations Patrick Murphy ’80, and/or Morris
Fabian; thanks!
James “Rabbit” Thomas, our point guard
from Willow Grove, is still in the guess- Art Smith and Connie spent the summer and
your-weight-and-age business. He did this much of the fall in Maine. Conrad Yungbliut
at Willow Grove Amusement Park before and Theresa had a great year but cut down
attending Pennington. Rabbit attended on traveling. They “have not seen the
Rider College before and after a tour of NJ shore in twenty years or more. There
military duty. After reenrolling at Rider he are few quiet beaches (as when several
realized that his satisfaction in life was his of us as classmates visited for fishing,
old amusement-park job. Although his swimming, etc.)—the changes in a lifetime
health does not allow him to be on the are huge.” In a telephone conversation,
midway, he now partners with his son and Barry Coleman (FL) reported that he and
can be found seasonally at the Florida and his wife, Faith, a few months ago greatly
North Carolina state fairs and during the enjoyed spending time with their four
tourist season in Myrtle Beach, SC. daughters: one in Taneytown, MD, another
in Montgomery County, PA, and two
Dale Hollady P’74 was sorry he had to miss
others at State College, PA.
Homecoming/Reunion Weekend due to
the fact he was in Atlanta. He has cleared An email message from Tom Blair,
his calendar for reunion weekend of 2012 PGA instructor in Oregon, extended
for our 60th Reunion. this invitation: “If any of you get to the
Pacific Northwest, I would be glad to tee it
Class of 1954 up with you.” Over the last year, several nice
notes have been received from Don Souder;
55th Reunion – October 16–17, 2009
a New Year’s card concluded, “My
Class Agent: George Gordon time at Pennington was great. Had an
577 Sierra Vista Lane excellent education. Life is a never-ending
Valley Cottage, NY 10989 education; I guess you know that.”
[email protected]

Class of 1955
Class Agent: Morris S. Fabian
PO Box 267
Pennington, NJ 08534-0267
(609) 737–1901
[email protected]

Over the winter holiday season, it was

enjoyable to receive greetings from
John Bronner (FL), Jerry Callaghan and Former NBC News and Voice of America
Joanne (NC), Bob Edwards and Jeanne correspondent Andrew Guthrie, (above,
(VA), Lee Hibbert (TPS 1953–54) and Judy right), chats with another member of his
(VA), Lyman O’Neill and Joanne (FL), Don extended family, Arlo Guthrie, after an
Robbins and Betty (NC), Vince Rockel end-of-year performance by the famed folk
’52 (FL), Art Smith and Connie (NJ), Don singer and composer at the Music Center
Souder ’54 (AL), and Conrad Yungbliut at Strathmore near Washington, DC.
and Theresa (OH).
This past fall Andrew traveled from Reston,
Lyman O’Neill noted that Fred Hyman’s VA, to join with numerous other alumni
name does not appear in past alumni for Homecoming/Reunion weekend. He
directories and is wondering what writes, “I am currently working from my
03 A LUMN I

home on sea turtle conservation. While Class of 1958

I was at Voice of America in Washington, Class Agents: Thomas S. Turner
I did several stories on this subject and 232 Kellogg Mill Road
have been involved in the effort to save all Marshfield, VT 05873-9999
seven species of sea turtles from extinction (802) 684–1152
for more than 30 years. My principal [email protected]
achievement was getting Donna Shaver of and Craig Jurgensen
the National Park Service at Padre Island [email protected]
John Biddiscombe ’63
National Seashore on ABC World News
John Biddiscombe has enjoyed a Tonight with Peter Jennings three years Craig Jurgensen writes, “Our 50th
fantastic career in athletics at the ago. Ms. Shaver is the chief of the Kemp’s reunion was great. We enjoyed a fantastic
college level. In 1974, he was named Ridley restoration project at Padre Island. reunion dinner at Head of School Penny
head coach of wrestling at Wesleyan Townsend’s residence. In attendance
This turtle nests only in large numbers at a
University while also assisting in were Fielding Tabb, Gary Stabile, Pete
single Mexican beach, and for 27 years the
both football and track. In 1988,
U.S. and Mexican governments have been White, Pete Stoll, Charlie Jurgensen, and
he was named to his current post
involved in restoring a secondary nesting myself. At the alumni meeting we learned
as Wesleyan’s director of athletics.
population at Padre Island National that our class was the second best class
Biddiscombe was twice selected as
Seashore and the rest of the Texas coast. in percentage for Annual Fund giving.
New England wrestling coach of the
year. In 1991 he was named Man of I retired from the VOA Newsroom in June Thank you all who participated. Let’s try
the Year in NECCWA wrestling. In of 2004 and continue to live in Reston to increase that number for this year! We
2004, he was inducted into the New with my dog, Lou. He is a rescue from
England College Wrestling Hall of Fame. Hurricane Katrina, and I met him at the
no-kill animal shelter in my area, Friends of
Biddiscombe also has been active
in the governance of the National Homeless Animals, for which I volunteer.
Collegiate Athletic Association where I also work at Dulles International Airport
he served as the chair of the Division as a volunteer for Travelers Aid, so if any
III Management Council and was Penningtonians pass through, check out
a member of the NCAA Executive the TA desks and if I am on duty, we can
Committee. In 2000, the National say hello.”
Association of Collegiate Athletic
Directors named him Division III Several classmates and/or spouses are in
Athletic Director of the Year. various stages of illness. Best wishes and
hope to all for better days this year! As
At Pennington, Biddiscombe was a
alumni, please know that our support for
post-grad football player, wrestled,
TPS is of much importance and greatly
and ran track. Biddiscombe says
appreciated. In 2010 the Class of 1955 will
Pennington gave him an opportunity
to see himself very differently than celebrate its 55th year since graduation.
he had in public high school, gaining It is hoped each of us will be able to
academic confidence as the result of demonstrate continuing appreciation and re-enacted the ’58 football squad right on
the caring attitude of the faculty. support for our alma mater. the 50-yard line at Homecoming/Reunion
John is married to Abigail “Gail” Weekend (couldn’t tell if the kids on the
Gorton. They have two children: Kate
Class of 1956 sidelines were cheering or laughing!). We
and Molly. John also has two older Class Agent needed. Please call Joanne had a student-guided tour of the School
children, John and Sara. McGann at (609) 737 6149 if you would like and saw the new-age library, classrooms
to volunteer. with electronic “blackboards,” the water
polo team practicing in the pool, the arts
Class of 1957 building with rehearsal rooms, the art
gallery, new science wing, communication
Class Agent: Spencer George
skills department for students with
18 Laurel Avenue
learning differences, lots of happy staff,
Summit, NJ 07901
TOP: On June 12, 2008, coaches, student boys AND GIRLS,
(908) 277–6127
Biddiscombe (left) visited the student center, and magnificent dining
[email protected]
School and spoke with faculty room (no chapel on campus!). Heard
members about various topics Penny Townsend say enrollment, diversity,
associated with the recruiting endowment, and esprit de corps have
process for student-athletes on never been better.”
the college level.
 A LU MNI 03

Evan Tibbott writes, “I was very pleased Class of 1959

to receive your Class of ’58 Reunion 50th Reunion – October 16–17, 2009
publication. It was wonderfully done. I
Class Agent: Wesley Camp
remember most of those whose write-ups
4785 Farndon Court
and photos were featured. When it came
Fairfax, VA 22032
to mention of former Headmaster Ira Pimm
[email protected]
in Dennis Lowden’s writeup, I recall that
I was one of those he took over to the
Class of 1960 Robert Carroll ’79
Metropolitan Opera. It was raining that
night, and somewhere across Jersey, an Class Agent: Marcos Policar Carroll graduated from Pennington
oncoming car spun into our lane and hit 4806 153rd Avenue SE in June 1979 and attended the
us. It was not a serious accident, and no Bellevue, WA 98006-3618 Pennsylvania State University
(425) 747–0703 at University Park, PA. After
one was hurt. He was a real gentleman and
graduating in 1983 with a B.A. in
cared very much about the students. [email protected]
economics, he began employment
with his family business, R.E.
Class of 1961 Carroll, Inc. He is now Vice
Class Agent: Sam Mather President of this 82-year-old
155 Woosamonsa Rd. wholesale distributor of industrial
Pennington, NJ 08534–4001 chemicals and petroleum products.
(609) 737–3588 Over the last 25 years he had the
pleasure of meeting Joe Theisman,
[email protected]
Mike Ditka, and NASCAR drivers
Terry LaBonte and Sterling Marlin
Class of 1962 through his business contacts.
Class Agent: Robert G. Carroll
Carroll remains actively involved
10841 Olympia Fields Loop
with the School; he is president of
Fielding Tabb ’58 Austin, TX 78747 the Alumni Association and also a
[email protected] member of the Board of Trustees.
Fielding wrote the following update for the
Class of 1958 Reunion booklet: His most memorable class was
Class of 1963 Honors Physics with Mr. Parnos and
“Pennington gave me the confidence most memorable teacher was Mr.
Class Agent: Richard Lipman
and social skills to accomplish decades of Winkler.
266 Westervelt Lane
successful industrial sales in the electrical
Mahwah, NJ 07430 Robert has been married for 23
market. I left Pennington after 1957 and
(201) 934–8191 years to Grace Casey and they are
graduated from public high school in the proud parents of two boys –
[email protected]
Maryland, where my father was transferred. James and Michael.
I spent four years in the Navy as air crew Donald Smith retired from the real estate
principally flying foreign dignitaries on business in 2001. After living in Ho Ho
tours of the United States while attending Kus, NJ, for 34 years, he now lives in
the University of Maryland. Then, after Connecticut and Amelia Island, FL. He
five years with the Xerox Corporation and writes, “My wife and I have a wonderful
graduation from Maryland, I entered 35 adventure, having spent two years living
years of electrical industrial sales. on our boat and cruising from the great
lakes to Key West and the east coast
I have been married for 43 years to my 1953
to the Cape, 8000 miles, lots of great
next door neighbor in Pennington, Judy.
memories, a fun and rewarding life after
We are in our 13th different house and now
Pennington.” They have two children and
live in Bedford, New Hampshire, close to
two grandchildren.
our two children and five grandchildren.

Pennington provided the role models; Class of 1964

Hal Cragin, William “Doc” Rarich, Huber 45th Reunion – October 16–17, 2009
Manafold, and Coach Harold Poore to
Class Agent: Robert L. Casper
emulate. Now I am enjoying friends made
34 Melville Avenue
throughout the years beginning with my
Dorchester, MA 02124
Pennington experience.”
(617) 265–7460
[email protected]
03 A LUMN I

Class of 1965 Class of 1969

Class Agent: Peter Brown 40th Reunion – October 16–17, 2009
121 Seaview Road Class Agent needed. Please call Joanne
Brewster, MA 02631 McGann at (609) 737 6149 if you would like
(508) 240–7074 to volunteer.
[email protected]

Carla and Dean Paul Hausmann extend Class of 1970

Parrish Kennington ’84 their appreciation to those members of Class Agent: Tom McGann
Parrish Kennington ’84 is a well- the Class of 1965 who donated to last P’03’05’13 5 Eaton Place
known costume designer and year’s Annual Fund in their honor. The Hopewell, NJ 08525
stylist with several Hollywood Hausmanns are enjoying their retirement (609) 466–3351
blockbusters to her credit. They in Greenville, PA, after many years at the [email protected]
include: 21, Gone Baby Gone, Dan Perkiomen School.
in Real Life, The Departed, Mystic
Classmates are encouraged to forward Class of 1971
River, Fever Pitch, and What Lies
Beneath. She is also an Emmy- their email addresses to Joanne McGann Class Agent: Bobby Prichard
nominated costumer for her work in the Alumni and Development office at 5587 Jollie Dr.
on the PBS series Zoom, currently [email protected]. Nineteen class Frederick, MD 21702
works on the PBS series Design members are keeping in touch via email (301) 473–4636
Squad, and has just finished her [email protected]
and sharing adventures with each other.
work on the 2009 release of The
Let’s include you. Our 45th is nearly one
Maiden Heist with Christopher Bobby Prichard writes, “Unbelievable
year away. Time to make a resolution to
Walken. Super Bowl. Was glad to see Jeff Reed
return to Pennington in 2010 to see your
and the Steelers get the win. He’s been
When Kennington left TPS in 1984, fellow alumni!
she studied business management
with us at NKS since his freshman year in
at the University of Nevada/Las high school and is one of our Senior Staff
Class of 1966
Vegas. After college, she returned Members. He’s a great guy and is always a
to the Northeast as a student at Class Agent: Roger Feldenheimer hoot at the camps he is able to attend.”
the New England School of Art and 477 King of Prussia Road
Design in Boston, where her focus Radnor, PA 19087-4518 Class of 1972
was on design illustration. It was (610) 688–3118
Class Agent: John Zuccarelli
during this time that Kennington [email protected]
got her start as a costumer by
104 Lighthouse Drive
sewing sequins and buttons on Jupiter Inlet Colony, FL 33469
Class of 1967
costumes for the annual Nutcracker [email protected]
performances at the Boston Ballet. Class Agent: Bruce Wood
6362 Brampton Court We have received the sad news that
Kennington has fond memories of
Alexandria, VA 22304 John Grywalski passed away in
Pennington, especially teachers
[email protected] September 2008.
like Bill Hawkey and Darren Ford.
“Both of these teachers added Scott Magner writes, “All is fine in
integrity, acceptance and comfort Class of 1968 Tennessee, and hi to everyone. I hope to
to my time at TPS.” Class Agent needed. Please call Joanne come up to Pennington for a visit soon.”
McGann at (609) 737 6149 if you would like
Kennington, her husband Mark,
to volunteer. Class of 1973
and dog Boon live in New York
and Boston, when she is not on
Thomas Lee writes, “I live in Cookham, a Class Agents: Emery Ungrady, Esq.
location.
small village to the west of London. I am 31 Jane Street Apt. 12C
married (Susan) and have a 12-year-old New York, NY 10014
daughter (Rebecca). For my day job, I’m (609) 247–1029
chief architect at the global training firm [email protected]
Global Knowledge, where I have fulfilled and Kim McDonald
one of my boyhood dreams of working 1890 Little Gap Rd.
and living in Europe. Doc Rarich would be Palmerton, PA 18071
proud.” [email protected]
(610) 349–2010

TOP: Parish, Mark, and Boon

out on the town.
 A LU MNI 58

Class of 1974 Class of 1979

35th Reunion – October 16–17, 2009 30th Reunion – October 16–17, 2009
Class Agents: Dan B. Frankel, Class Agent: Emilie McCardell
5329 Fair Oaks Street 1514 Riverside Dr.
Pittsburgh, PA 15217 Trenton, NJ 08618–5835
(412) 681–6761 [email protected]
[email protected]
Dennis Keating says, “I bet we win the
and Dr. Robert Riesenberger
award for most participation next year!”
122 Pebble Valley Drive
Doylestown, PA 18901 Andrew Martton writes, “My home is
(215) 230–4497 in southeast Florida in the city of Delray
[email protected] Beach. I am in poor health due to a bad
back.”
Christpher Dale Holladay (son of Dale
‘Doc’ Holladay ’52) is a retired Army
lieutenant colonel and is the deputy Class of 1980
director of the UNISYS Project Office in Class Agents: Denise McGee Buchanan
Harrisburg, PA. The office provides IT 7409 Beaverwood Dr.
support to 18 Pennsylvania state agencies. Raleigh, NC 27616
[email protected]
Class of 1975 and Ray Buck
160 Lawrenceville-Pennington Rd. #16–146
Class Agent: Frank Entwisle
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
408 Federal Ln.
[email protected]
Morrisville, PA 19067-4919
(732) 794–1546
[email protected]
and Lisa Austin-Brouse
2224 Hoffnagle St. # 2F, Philadelphia, PA
Class of 1976
19152–2512, [email protected] (215)
Class Agent needed. Please call Joanne 941–7690
McGann at (609) 737 6149 if you would like
to volunteer. The Class of 1980 sends best wishes and
congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Winkler
on their retirement after 30 years of
Class of 1977
teaching. We were very lucky to have
Class Agent: Jane Sortor Keene, Esq.
known such inspirational teachers. We all
3434 West End Avenue
remember Senior American Studies; Mr.
Trevose, PA 19053
Winkler’s passion for teaching history was
(215) 354–0967
unbelievable. He was one of the greatest
[email protected]
teachers ever. Mrs. Winkler’s voice, if you
Jane Sortor Keene says, “I finally got still remember, was that of an angel. I
married to Bob Keene ’75. I waited thirty remember getting chills whenever we were
years for this.” lucky enough to listen to such an angelic
voice. You both will be remembered by the
Class of 1978 class of 1980.

Class Agent: Scott R. Gansl

Class of 1981
102 Buckingham Ave
Trenton, NJ 08618-3314 Class Agent: Thomas Chiodi
609–396–1972 1510 Worthington Heights Parkway
[email protected] Hunt Valley, MD 21030
(410) 527–3433
Linda Britton-Fitz writes, “All is well in [email protected]
Texas. I have a lovely family and would love
to hear from friends and classmates from Great news: Ed Gomez married Amy K.
Pennington. Please email me at Thurness on November 15.
[email protected].”
03 A LUMN I

In August a few couples met for a “Big Chill” Tom Rhoads could not make it to the
weekend at the house of Ron Rick and his reunion but sent an update saying all is
wife, Kathy. Among those in attendance well with him in Chicago, where he is a
were Andrea Colender Kawecki ’82 mechanical engineer.
and her husband, Matt, and Tom Chiodi
Doug Roberts is an artist and has been
and Lisa. (P.S Andrea is some cook. Her
working at the Johnson Atelier for many
eggplant parmesan was out of this world.)
years now. His daughter is in second grade
Chad A. Bridges ’96 at Our Lady of Sorrows School in Hamilton.
Class of 1982
Chad Bridges has come full circle Mike Leabman is a lawyer and practices
Class Agents: Cathilyn Spampinato
after graduation from Pennington law at the family law firm. He has a five-
to become a teacher at the
Pappano
153 Rugby Drive year-old son.
school he once attended. Bridges
graduated with honors from Langhorne, PA 19047 Jim Felzenberg is married and has a two-
Drew University in 2000 with a (215) 757–0519 year-old daughter.
degree in political science. Upon [email protected]
graduation from Drew, he worked and Ida Malloy John Couch works in real estate
at Bloomberg LP for five years 166 Brunswick Avenue management and has two children.
in the legal department. During Trenton, NJ 08618
Ken Hansen lives in Pennington and
his tenure with the company, he (609) 695–7154
was a team leader and active in is a member of the School’s Alumni
[email protected]
the college recruiting process. In Association board. His son Tim is a sixth-
addition to his work at Bloomberg, Patrick Hagerty writes, “Well, where do grader at Pennington!
he began coaching soccer for boys I start? I am currently an IT Team lead at
Lynn Drury Morano’s daughter, Allison
and girls. He has been coaching Morgan, Lewis and Bockius, a law firm
soccer for the last five years and
’11, attends Pennington.
in Center City Philadelphia. I am vice
recently began his own soccer Heidi Winzinger works for the State
president of production, and sing for the
academy, Next Level Soccer.
Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus, of New Jersey in the area of greenland
His love for Pennington brought www.pgmc.org. If that weren’t enough preservation and is an activist in her area
him back to the School in 2005 to to do, I also volunteer for ActionAids for many worthy causes.
teach social studies in the Middle Gay Bingo every month and am a
School. He is entering his fourth
Fritz Kurtz keeps busy with triplets.
photographer for an online magazine
year as teacher, middle school called edgephiladelphia.com. I live in Larry Wong lives in Voorhees, NJ; he and
soccer coach, and assistant varsity
South Philadelphia near Ikea. Not a bad his wife, Theresa, have two daughters.
basketball coach. He and his wife,
place to live, but I’m looking to move in Larry owns and runs a scooter shop.
Erica, live on campus with their
Center City, so I can enjoy myself more
three-year-old son, Drew. Brian Feuer got married recently.
and spend more time with friends and
When asked about his favorite class my boyfriend. You did read it right, my Ingrid Miller attended the reunion; she
while a student at Pennington, boyfriend. As you can see I have a VERY lives and works in Flemington.
Bridges says that he was reluctant busy life, but I am having fun! You can
at first to join the Upper School
reach me at my email address Kurt Scherler was unable to attend
Chorus (under the direction then, but called in from San Diego and had a
([email protected]) or look for Patrick
as now, of William Alford), but that chance to talk to just about everyone in
Hagerty on Facebook.
it turned out to be one of the best attendance. He lives in San Diego with his
decisions he made during his high
wife and two children.
school years. His greatest memory Class of 1983
is graduation in 1996: “All my hard Class Agent: Carrie Vinch Mark Morin is a professional
work over the years led to a great 80 Phillips Avenue photographer and works for the Bill and
moment for my classmates and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Lawrenceville NJ 08648
me.” And a close second, he adds,
(609) 512–1236
was beating Hopewell Valley in any
[email protected]
sport at any time!
Carrie Vinch did a wonderful job of
getting the word out to the class about our
25th Reunion and on the day had a strong
turnout. In the end over 20 classmates
attended the on-campus festivities and a
party at Carrie’s on Saturday or phoned
in to pass the phone around and catch up
that way. Updates on classmates include:
 03

there are any plans to gather this summer,

Class of 1984 we would love to be included. I hope this
25th Reunion - October 16–17, 2009 message finds all of our former classmates
Class Agents: Franklin D. Sanders well—please keep in touch. Heidelberg
147 Tennyson Drive American High School CMR 419, Box 771,
Short Hills, NJ 07078 APO, AE 09102.
(973) 921–0952 Mary Auer Houser writes, “I have been
[email protected] married for fifteen years to Army Colonel Spencer Garrison ’05
and Elizabeth Hall Hidalgo Matthew Houser. We have three kids: Jake Spencer Garrison is currently
203 Hopewell-Amwell Rd. (10), Alex (7), and Lauren (4). We currently in his senior year at The United
Hopewell, NJ 08525–3114 live in North Carolina. I received my States Military Academy at West
(609) 466–0056 doctorate in educational leadership last Point, majoring in leadership, as
[email protected] spring and am on the faculty of Campbell well as following a track in civil
University (NC). We are doing great and engineering. He is the public
Class of 1985 would love to hear from classmates, affairs officer for, and a member
Class Agents: Georgia Manukas [email protected]. of, the Army Marathon Team and
has run in the Boston Marathon
566 North Edgemore Dr.
Gwen Wilson Torrens writes: My three times. He serves as the men’s
W. Allenhurst, NJ 07711
husband of 16 years, Raul, and I live on the ministry leader for the Officers’
(732) 663–1816
Pennington campus with our family. Our Christian Fellowship (West Point
[email protected] chapter).
twins, Anya Marie and Clara Gwenevere,
and Jessica Frank Sanders
are now 2½ years old and just adorable. Pennington’s Cross Country and
147 Tennyson Dr.
My other children are Zak, 5 ½, and Alyssa, Track program, led by Coach Rick
Short Hills, NJ 07078 (973) 921–0952
who will be 15 in March and has been at Ritter, had a significant impact on
[email protected]
The Pennington School since sixth grade Garrison. He says, “Coach Ritter
Keith VanArsdale moved to South and is now a freshman. I am still a school made me an athlete, made me love
Carolina this past year. “Despite the fact nurse at Pennington, glad that I don’t have running, and helped me discover
that we cannot get a good bagel and slice to take the upcoming exams, but boy, my physical potential. I still keep
of pizza, the move south was still worth it. does it bring back memories! in close touch with him and the
present-day team, along with many
The family is well; my wife, Yvette, and I are
of my old teammates.”
blessed with four children: Kyle (11), Jacob Class of 1986
(8), Joshua (5) and Rebekah (3). Jake played Class Agents: Jacqueline Jefferson Lilly Spencer maintains close ties to
his first organized team football this year 4282 Whisperwood Circle Pennington. He recently told us
and wore the same number as his proud that, “at some point down the
Valdosta, GA 31602
dad, #50. If anyone is in the “upstate” area road, after many precious years in
(229) 244–0104
in South Carolina, you are welcome to visit. the active Army, I hope to follow
[email protected]
in the steps of the many faculty
My email is [email protected].” and Heather Smith-Carter and staff who have found their way
Christopher Harbach writes, “Heather 24 3rd Ave back to their alma mater, entering
(Wyckoff) and I have been married for 15 Roebling, NJ 08554-1004 a career in education and coming
years, and we have two children, Madeline (609) 499–0163 back to Pennington for many
(9) and Benjamin (6). We are living in more years of professional service
Jacqueline Jefferson Lilly writes, and personal growth. That’s very
Heidelberg, Germany, where I have been “Christopher, Kennedy, and I are adjusting long-term at this point, but I look
teaching on the U.S. military base for the to life here in Valdosta, GA. While this forward to it, all the same.”
past five years. I teach theatre, journalism area is a great place to raise a child, I
and English. I direct all of the school plays, really am missing Nordstrom!! Kennedy
and I am the school newspaper advisor. turned 3 earlier this year (see photo below)
Heather is a stay-at-home mom. Our
children both attend a German school
in the town of Walldorf (about 10 miles
outside of Heidelberg) where we live. They
are, needless to say, both fluent in German,
while we do our best! We enjoy frequent
visits from our families, and we make it
back to New Jersey every other year. We
will be home this summer again, but we TOP: Spencer and his parents
will unfortunately miss the big reunion. If at West Point
03 A LUMN I

and is quite the mini-me, so I sincerely Class of 1989

apologize to my parents and all of my 20th Reunion - October 16–19, 2009
former teachers! I would like to invite all
Class Agent: Jane Bott Childrey
my classmates to send me their contact
133 Sardis Lane
info, especially an email address, to my
Charlotte, NC 28270
email listed above. I love keeping in touch.
(704) 365–9832
Also I have set up a page for our class on
[email protected]
Facebook, so sign up and share the love!!”
Christopher Doorley ’99
Our 20-year reunion is coming up in
Christopher Doorley graduated
Dave DeMartin and his wife, Pam,
October so I am trying to get everyone’s
in 2003 from Boston University’s recently returned from a cruise to Alaska.
email. Please send your email address to
College of Communications, where Dave is still with Booz Allen Hamilton in
me at [email protected].
he earned a Bachelor of Science Washington, DC, where he works with
degree in communications, also government clients on a range of strategic
focusing on American history planning and operational issues. Dave,
and the influence of political Pam, son Ryan (4), and daughter Lily
communications. He is a partner (2) live in Ashburn, VA, just outside of
with Bullseye Interactive Media Washington, DC.
(part of Struble Eichenbaum
Communications) in Washington,
Class of 1987
DC. Bullseye is a political
communications consultancy that Class Agent: Alex Wolf
focuses on online and new media 7 Clark Road
technologies. Doorley’s primary Goshen, NY 10924
responsibility is to oversee their (845) 651–0102
design process. [email protected]
While at Pennington, Doorley
Jeff Rothstein and wife, Rachel welcomed
wanted to be a writer. He was Class of 1988
the editor of the Middle School son, Ryder Cole Rothstein on June 11,
Class Agent: George Ward
newspaper and the editor of The 2008. (Photo above).
112 West Delaware Ave.
Penntonian, and he served on
Pennington, NJ 08534 If anyone has any ideas of something we
the editorial staff of the literary
[email protected] all might want to do, we can start throwing
magazine. However, as he started
around ideas. I know a lot of us have kids
to get more exposed to the world, Jon Wallhauser writes, “Everything is
he became more drawn into and didn’t know if we wanted to try and
going well here. My family (three incredible
politics. In 1998 he volunteered plan an event with our kids as well. We also
kids and wife) are great and the focus of
for Rep. Rush Holt’s reelection might want to find out how many are going
my life. We continue to spend our free
campaign. That was a turning to need sitters for the Saturday evening
time as a family and in the water (still
point in his career path, and he and maybe Friday night if everyone wants
has volunteered or worked in surfing almost every day with my kids).
to go out, too.
every major election cycle since This is a great time of year in Satellite
1998. His firm has consulted on Beach, FL. The water is in the 80s, the
Class of 1990
recent campaigns including that air is in the 80s, and the waves almost
of freshman Senator Kay Hagan of never go flat. I couldn’t be happier with Class Agent: Michael Keogh
North Carolina. the place I live; it is a tropical paradise 112 W. Delaware Avenue
and we take full advantage of it (Atlantic Pennington NJ 08534
Doorley’s best memories while
Ocean, Indian River Lagoon, etc.). I also (717) 645-6889
at Pennington are in the drama
love to garden and have a lot of fruit trees [email protected]
and fine art areas. “Ms. Houston
and Ms. Evangelista [now Eaton] (mango, coconut, papaya, banana, citrus, Jennifer Messick Zimmermann writes,
were as much friends as they were etc.), giant clumping bamboos, and sugar “My husband, Andrew, and I are proud to
teachers.” Doorley enjoys traveling cane in my yard, which means year-round announce the birth of our son, Matson. He
and has been to Japan, Costa Rica, fun in the yard. Professionally speaking, was born April 21, 2008—a very healthy 10
Mexico, Australia, and Puerto Rico. I was recently promoted to HR manager lbs., 4 oz., and 21½ inches long!”
of my contract (Space Lift Range Systems
Contract, about 900 people). That has Everyone, be sure to check out Matt
been going well and I am enjoying the Gosser’s website: http://www.gosser.info/
challenge.”
Sandy Durst is excited to announce
that he has joined the law firm of Lynch,
 A LU MNI 62

Osborne, Theivakumar & Gilmore, where firm in Colorado Springs. “My wife is
his practice remains devote to family law due April 1 with our second child, a girl,
matters. Located in downtown Princeton, and our son, Cooper, is learning to play
Sandy and his firm can handle a wide ice hockey at age 3. My wife, Dr. Kristine
range of legal needs. For more information Lang, teaches physics at Colorado College
go to www.lotglaw.com and recently received a $450,000 grant
from the National Science Foundation
Heather Aitken writes “I just got back
for research into nano-materials research
from India on a wonderful trip with a group
related to quantum computing and
called Warrior Sage. This was my third
superconducting electronics.”
spiritual adventure tour with Warrior Sage:
Peru was first, then England/Ireland, and
Class of 1992
now India! All three trips were amazing.
Over the past few years I have done many Class Agent: Kim Borden Perri
personal development workshops; I have 8 Wellington Road
grown a lot, had many adventures, and Newtown, PA 18940
met lots of beautiful people along the way. (215) 736–3133
I am a founding member of “The Divine [email protected]
Goddess Network” and have another
business opportunity with a shaman friend
of mine in Los Angeles, both of which I will
send information about in a future update
when there is more to tell. Could I sound
more Californian? If people had told me
I would be doing the types of things I
have been doing over the past few years
I would have told them they were crazy;
it even seems a little strange to me at
times, but I love my friends and I love my
life! Oh and I love Facebook; being able
Meaghan McLaughlin Dagner ‘92 was
to reconnect and see current pictures of
married on September 20, 2008. Guests
all of my old friends has been a lot of fun,
included, left to right - Antoinette
so if you’re looking for me, just search
Borromeo (‘92), Lori Lake-Height -
for me on Facebook! I wish you all love,
(‘93), Meaghan McLaughlin (‘92), Anisa
health, wealth, happiness, and fun in 2009!
Talwani (‘92) and Kimberly Borden-Perri
Namaste, my friends, Namaste!”
(‘92). “We all had a blast together, and
I then followed that up with two weeks
Class of 1991 in Hawaii. My husband and I bought a
Class Agent: Jon Bowden house in Summit, NJ, over the summer,
39 Eglantine Avenue and I currently work at UBS Financial in
Pennington, NJ 08534 Manhattan, working with a team on high
(609) 730–9754 net worth money managers. Other than
[email protected] the obvious economic issues, all is well
and I’m enjoying it. I’ve been thrilled to
Chris Long writes, “I would love to let all
touch base with so many of my Pennington
my friends from Pennington know that I am
friends over the last year and want to know
living in Pennington, with my wife, Merrill,
when we are all going to get together for a
and my three children (16, 9, and 7). We
little fun!”
have one dog and one cat. I would love to
have the opportunity to sell all of my old Scott Simmins is currently working
Pennington School friends a new or pre- in Woodbridge as a software trainer/
owned car in 2009. You can contact me at developer. Scott got married on August
[email protected].” 28, 2008. He and his wife, Karen, are living
in Hamilton, NJ.
Ted Vaida was recently promoted to vice
president of embedded computing and
storage products for a small engineering
63 A LUMN I

Class of 1993 Class of 1999

Class Agent: Meghan Burns 10th Reunion - October 16–19, 2009
417 East 90th Street. Apt. 7J Class Agent: Alexander Magliaro
New York, NY 10128 57 W. 10th St. 7B
(212) 828–6597 New York, NY 10011
[email protected] (212) 260–5148
Isabel Sanudo Gancedo-Rodriguez [email protected]
writes, “How is everyone? I hope everyone
is doing well. I am fine; I have been married
for five years and have two kids, Jaime (3)
and Lola (1). I am still working at the Royal
Spanish Golf Federation, and I am the
secretary of the managing director.”

Class of 1994
15th Reunion - October 16–17, 2009
Class Agent needed. Please call Joanne
McGann at (609) 737 6149 if you would like
Pierette Wesley Hulme ’99 and husband,
to volunteer.
Jason welcomed daughter, Pierette Brielle
Hulme on November 10, 2008. (above) She
Class of 1995
joins brother, Jayce Wesley Hulme, who
Class Agent: Sonya Schefer celebrated his first birthday in October.
319 Whitman Drive
Brooklyn, NY 11234
[email protected]

Michelle Boudreau is still working for

Rutgers University and having fun. She
is living in Sayreville now, but will be
moving again this spring. “I would love
to write something exciting to put in the
magazine, but it’s life as usual for me. I will
have something exciting for the next one,
though!”
Rachel Lenhardt Mahan ‘01 married
Class of 1996 Jason Mahan May 5, 2008 in Stanhope, NJ.
Class Agent: Chad Bridges (above)
112 West Delaware Avenue
Pennington, NJ 08534 Class of 2000
(609) 240–6622 Class Agents: Chris Burns
[email protected] 112 West Delaware Avenue
Pennington, NJ 08534
Class of 1997 (609) 737–0717
Class Agent: Laura Desai [email protected]
475 Federal City Road and Joy Gendzel
Pennington, NJ 08534 32 Bernard Drive
(609) 737–3877 Trenton, NJ 08628
[email protected] [email protected].

Marta Di Vincenzo is an architect and

Class of 1998 lives in Brussels.
Class Agent: Courtney Urfer
Willow Brook Farm, Blue Mill Road
Morristown, NJ 07960
(201) 538–1966
[email protected]
 A LU MNI 64

Class of 2001
Class Agents: David Mesrobian
2001 N. Adams Street, #336
Arlington, VA 22201–3752
[email protected]
and Stephen Bogden
8 Cross Creek Drive
Flemington, NJ 08822
[email protected]

Joe Vitella lives in Philadelphia and works

for Sunoco Corporation. Greg Vallete ’03 with wife, Hazel Flack and
son, Grayson. (above)
Class of 2002
Class Agent: Christina McKitish
47 Windswept Drive
Trenton, NJ 08690
[email protected]

Megan Harcar is attending graduate

school at the Courtauld Institute of Art in
London, England.

Christian Henderson is now in Nashville,

TN, and working for Creative Artists
Agency.
Jackie Immordino with fellow Brunel Grad
Doug Whittlesey was hired by TAG
Students in London.
Associates, a multi-family wealth
management office in Manhattan, as a Gregory Vallete was married on July
research analyst focusing on absolute 6, 2006, to Hazel Flack and they had a
return hedge funds and the absolute son, Grayson, born July 17, 2008. Greg is
return/relative value fund of hedge funds. currently in his junior year at Penn State
He is currently living in the Kips Bay University, Harrisburg campus, studying
neighborhood and is just trying to survive mathematical science.
the current turmoil in the hedge fund
Scarlett McNally writes, “I am working
industry.
at a gourmet market on Beacon Hill in
Christina McKitish is currently in her Boston as head cashier and dairy manager.
second year of teaching eighth grade at It is going well. I spend my time between
Hudson High School and living in Boston. Boston and regular visits to NYC to see my
boyfriend.
Class of 2003
Class Agents: Tim Johnson
5 Hoffman Place
Belle Mead, NJ 08502-5529
(908) 359–6458
[email protected]
and Jen Mackin
294 Lindsay Lane
Souderton, PA 18964
(215) 723–3478
[email protected]
65 A LUMN I

Class of 2004
5th Reunion - October 16–19, 2009
Class Agent: Priya Pandit
270 Babcock St. Apt 20H
Boston, MA, 02215–1028
(908) 400–1990
[email protected]

Renata Grzeczkowicz stopped in the

alumni office for a visit. She graduated
from UNH with a degree in hospitality and
is working for Starwood Resorts, in San
Michael Robertson Jones (above) died Diego, CA.
unexpectedly on February 14, 2009 at
Lindsay Vitella is a chemist, working in
the age of 23. Mike, a recent graduate
Philadelphia.
of Loyola University of New Orleans was
proud of his degree in Music Industry Timothy Arbeiter writes, “All is great
Studies. He was an excellent guitarist, here in Florida. I am working full-time
composer and sound engineer and the as an assistant manager for a computer
long time lead guitarist for Energy Field lab support team of about 40 people.
Band. He was also a charismatic marketer I graduated in May 2008 with a B.S. in
having worked for both Hyena and Big aviation management, and now I am
Deal records as a label representative. going for my master’s in aviation human
In the summer of 2007, Mike and his factors. Other than that, life is quiet and
long time friend started a music industry comfortable, living on my own after four
e-commerce business, Lucid Arts years of living in campus housing and
Entertainment, LLC for which he was having to fight for a washing machine.”
the CEO and Chief Marketer. He was
Tristan Sylk graduated from Franklin and
charismatic, kind and generous; and made
Marshall in May 2008. He is currently living
and kept a wonderful group of friends
in New York City and attending Columbia
throughout his life. Mike considered
Business School, earning his M.B.A. in
himself a traveling man. One of his favorite
real estate finance. He will be going to
endeavors was going to festivals and
South Africa in March for a real estate
concerts throughout the United States.
development program.
He also enjoyed boating, snowboarding,
jet skiing and was a licensed aircraft
Class of 2005
pilot, certified scuba diver and certified
bartender. In his youth, he played football, Class Agents: Whitney Sandford
lacrosse and rugby. He was a Katrina 19 Steepleview Court
survivor and raised over $3500 for Katrina Lambertville, NJ 08530
victims by organizing and performing at (609) 397–7274
concerts. He also volunteered for Habitat [email protected]
for Humanity, Humidity Project, Make It and Max Owen
Right NOLA, American Cancer Society, 4 Lori Ct.
Eric Potts Lacrosse-athon, the Kent Family Hamilton, NJ 08619–3639
Center, The Dolphin Research Center (609) 890–0381
and as a coach for the Suddlersville [email protected]
Lacrosse Team. Mike hoped to attend the
Adem Bunkedekko stopped in the alumni
McCoombs School of Business at The
office for a visit recently. He is back home
University of Texas in the fall to begin
after spending a year at The London
earning his MBA. He is survived by his
School of Economics while studying
mother Dusti Jones and his father Dr.
abroad from Haverford College. Adem is
Robert Jones. In lieu of flowers, donations
pursuing a double major in philosophy and
can be made to the Michael Jones
political science. He spent time this year
Memorial Fund at The Pennington School,
working on Barack Obama’s campaign
112 West Delaware Ave, Pennington, New
and will begin to work on the process of
Jersey 08534.
 A LU MNI 66

taking LSATs and applying to law schools. Class of 2006

His plan is to attend law school in a year Class Agents: Amy Seymour
or two. In the time between graduating [email protected],
from Haverford and attending law school, Celeste Jackson
Adem plans to spend a year or two in the [email protected]
Teach for America program or working for and Liz Thurber
The McKinsey Group. Adem was pleased [email protected]
to see the progress Pennington is making;
he was able to take a full tour of the new Corina Kwami will be doing a study
science labs in Stainton and the new math abroad in Morocco this semester!
classrooms in Old Main. He also caught up
with Mr. Doughty and Dean Liwosz. Class of 2007
Class Agent: Dana Ashburn
[email protected],
and Toni Nicole Catelli
14 Old Cabin Rd.
Newtown, PA 18940–2532
(215) 860–8323

Kylee Rossi (above, left) and the

Tennessee soccer team were in College
Station this past fall for an early season Varsity Tennis Coach Heather Bailey
tournament game vs. NCAA Division I dropped in on Adrienne Markison at
champ North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Kylee Quinnipiac University recently to watch
and her team played extremely well, her play in a tennis match. Pictured above
losing a tight 1–0 battle to the perennial left to right, Heather, Adrienne, and Marcello
D-I power. Ky has completed her college Tosti
playing eligibility and is considering taking
a shot at the new women’s professional Class of 2008
soccer league. Unfortunately Kylee had
Class Agents: Brittany Kunkel
to defer an invitation to try out for the
[email protected],
league due to hip surgery. Kylee will also
Rachel Haag
explore a career in sports management.
[email protected],
While at Tennessee Kylee was a two-time
and Marly Faherty
Southeastern Conference (SEC) Player of
[email protected]
the Year and was named to the All SEC
First Team three times. Rachel Dell is at Asbury College in
Wilmore, KY. She loves her psych class and
Spencer Garrison recently ran the
professor and is also doing lots of writing
Philadelphia Marathon and ran a personal
in her English class.
best of 2:51:34. He was one of 18,000
runners! Bailey Veghte is a freshman at the
University of Hartford in the college of
Conor Madison, who will soon graduate
Education, Nursing, and Health Professions
from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy at the
(ENHP), studying to be a physical therapist.
top of his class, received a “Tomorrow’s
“My major is a seven-year course, and I
Leaders” award from AVIATION WEEK
would graduate with a D.P.T.”
(one of four in the entire U.S.) at the 52nd
Annual Laureate Awards recently.
67 A LUMN I

Jae Heo ‘08 enjoyed an outstanding

freshman soccer season at Amherst
College this past fall. Photo by Amherst
freshman Kate Berry.
ALUMNI SWIM TEAM
On Saturday, November 29, 2008, 10 Alumni
returned to the Michael T. Martin Aquatic Center
to challenge our current TPS Students. Even
with Coach Ward’s 7 plus minutes in the 500 yard
freestyle, earning his team a crucial point for the
Alumni, they couldn’t overcome the depth of the
TPS Student’s team. Senior Captain Marie Kane’s
strategic line-up was engineered in such a way,
that even though the Alumni took the majority
of the first place finishes, performances by those
in the outside lanes saved the day for the TPS
Student team.

Meet Result
TPS Students: 90
TPS Alumni: 78

It was a great meet!

ALUMNI HOCKEY GAME

Members of the Alumni Hockey team celebrate
their 3-1 victory over the Varsity Hockey team
during the Alumni vs. Varsity ice hockey game in
December.
 A LU MNI 68

IN MEMORIUM
Dr. Nelson M. Hoffman, Jr.
Former Pennington School headmaster Dr. Nelson M. Hoffman, Jr. passed away in August
2008 after a long and distinguished career in education. Dr. Hoffman was headmaster at
Pennington during a time of transition, from 1970 until 1978.

Hoffman earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Asbury College in 1942 and
married Marjorie Mendenhall in December of that year. After service as an officer in the
United States Navy during World War II, he taught school in Ozawkie, Kansas; earned
his master’s degree in history from the University of Kansas; and then attended the
Kennedy School of Missions in Hartford, Connecticut. From 1949 through 1957 he was an
educational missionary of the Methodist Church in South India; upon his return, he served
as pastor of the Methodist Church in Williamsburg, Kansas.

After teaching in the history departments of the University of Kansas;

Emory at Oxford, Georgia; and Florida Southern College, Dr. Hoffman
earned his Ph.D. degree in history from the University of Kansas in 1964.
He went on to serve as dean of academic affairs at Florida Southern In Memoriam
College (1965–68) and vice president of academic affairs at West Virginia
Wesleyan College (1968–70) before becoming Pennington’s headmaster. It is with deep sadness that we list members
Dr. Hoffman left Pennington to become president of Midway (Kentucky) of the Pennington family who recently died.
College (1978–85). He later served as interim headmaster of the Robinson Gregory Morris ’41
School in San Juan, Puerto Rico (1986) and interim assistant general William W. Poynter ’43
secretary of the United Methodist Division of Higher Education in Robert A. Keating ’47
Nashville (1987). For the remaining twenty years of his life he was vice Clifford H. Oakley ’48
president of Capital Formation Counselors, Inc., Belleair Bluffs, Florida. John Grywalski ’72
Notes of sympathy may be sent to: Marjorie M. Hoffman at 119 Crosskey Michael Robertson Jones ’03
Dr., Versailles, KY40383; Joseph Hoffman ’75 at 2398 Lillards Ferry Rd., Dr. Nelson M. Hoffman, Jr.,
Versailles, KY40383; or George M. Hoffman ’72 at 110 Scarlett Court, Headmaster 1970-78
Westerville, OH 43081. Edgar B. Roesch
Former president, Board of Trustees

Edgar B. Roesch
Edgar Burling Roesch died surrounded by family on March 1, 2009. He was
ninety years old. Roesch was the president of the Board of Trustees from
1980 through 1989, and served on the Board for over ten years in total.
Roesch was president when O’Hanlon Hall, site of the campus chapel,
burned down on January 17, 1980, and played a significant leadership role
in guiding the School during that difficult time.

Roesch had a long and varied career. After graduating with a degree in
mechanical engineering from Syracuse University, he served as president
of a union; worked in the Empire State Building with a consulting company;
held a job with the Department of Defense in the Pentagon; and was
owner and president of Stephen Laurie Manufacturing Co.

Roesch was married to Lesley Brady, a former English teacher at The Pennington School, for 62 years before she passed in
2005. Their son, Sheldon, graduated from Pennington in 1972, and Roesch’s brother, George, was a 1929 graduate of the
School. He is survived by his four children, 16 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be sent to Avow Hospice of Naples at 1095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples, FL 34105.
03 A LUMN I

The 14th Annual Golf Classic will be held at the

Trenton Country Club on Monday, June 8, 2009.
Proceeds from the Classic will once again support
the Jerry H. Eure, Sr., Endowment Fund.

As it establishes the Jerry H. Eure, Sr.,

Endowment Fund, The Pennington School is
seeking to raise at least $50,000. The School is
close to reaching that amount, but more help
and support is needed to achieve or exceed
this goal. The Fund will assist students on
financial aid with the hidden costs associated
with attending an independent school (books,
extracurricular activities, and cultural excursions,
among others).

In addition to raising funds, the Golf Classic

gives the entire Pennington community an
opportunity to share in a great day on the
links! The Classic will feature exciting contests,
including putting, “Closest to the Pin,”
“Straightest Drive,” “Longest Drive,” and “Hit
the Green.” Placement prizes will be awarded to
the two top teams from three separate flights.
The Golf Classic committee will determine
criteria for flighting.

Greens fees, cart rental, dinner, and a chance to

win great prizes and awards are included in the
registration fee.

Interested members and friends of the

Pennington School family may support the
Endowment by playing in, sponsoring, and/or
making a contribution to the Classic. For further
information please contact Joanne McGann
at [email protected] or 609-737-6149.
To download a registration form, visit www.
pennington.org, click on Alumni & Development,
and scroll down to Upcoming Events.
 S T U D E N T /CA M PU S LIF E 03

ALUMNI DAY 2009 SATURDAY, MAY 2

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.

Alumni Association, Class Agent, and Class Family Swim
Fund Director Thank You Brunch Michael T. Martin Aquatic Center
Campus Center Plaza
2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Campus Tours, guided by TPS students
Registration Gather on O’Hanlon Green
Campus Center Plaza
2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
11:00 a.m. Affinity Groups Reunions
State of School Address, Head of School Location TBA
Stephanie (Penny) Townsend Peer Leaders hosted by Erin O’Connell, Location TBA
Stainton Hall Center United People of Many Colors hosted by Barry Fulton
Alumni of Color, Location TBA, LGBT Alumni, Location
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. TBA; International Alumni hosted by Judy Rossi,
Location TBA
Supervised Children’s Activities – drop your
Questions or to RSVP contact Joanne McGann at
child off for a half hour of fun while you
[email protected] or 609-737-6149 by April 22
enjoy the State of the School address
Location TBA 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Classes without Quizzes
Location TBA
Lunch/Picnic Join TPS English Department Chair Terry Burns for a
Campus Center Plaza; very informative and insightful session.
Kids welcome!
2:00 p.m.
12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Boys Varsity Baseball vs. Princeton High
16th Annual Pennington Student Art Exhibit School
Silva Gallery of Art Heritage Field

12:00 – 5:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m.

Relaxation Lounge Girls Varsity Lacrosse vs. Blair Academy
Meckler Library Coach Harold Poore Track and Field
A great place to take a break between events or just
put your feet up for a while. The Penntonian, The 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and TPS
yearbooks will all be available.
Reception
Campus Center Plaza
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Soccer Clinic for alumni children (This list is subject to change and will be updated regularly)
Stainton Field
Directed by varsity soccer coaches Patrick Murphy ’80
and Chad Bridges ’96
03 S T U DEN T/ CAMPUS L I FE

ALUMNI CELEBRATE IN THE BIG APPLE

The Yale Club of New York provided the setting for our annual holiday reception of alumni,
parents, and friends on December 3, 2008. The highlight of the evening was the outstanding
performance by the Pennington Singers, who were able to bring the holiday spirit to all who
were fortunate enough to attend.
 UPCOMING EVENTS

Sunday, April 19 Wednesday, May 20 &

Parents Association Fashion Show Thursday, May 21
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. H2X Hip Hop Show – The Ride
Sparks Gymnasium 7:00 p.m.
Lecture Center, Stainton Hall
Friday, April 24 & Saturday, April 25 Reservations are strongly encouraged to
Spring Play X: Ten Plays in Two Days (Senior [email protected], tickets are $5.00 each
Play)
7:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 30
Black Box Theatre Upper School Graduation
Reservations are strongly encouraged to tickets@ 10:30 a.m.
pennington.org Front Lawn, Old Main

Saturday, May 2 Thursday, June 4

Alumni Day (see inside back cover for Middle School Graduation
details) 7:00 p.m.
Pennington Presbyterian Church
Thursday, May 7 – Saturday, May 9 Monday, June 8
Middle School Play: “The Phantom 14th Annual Golf Classic
Tollbooth” Trenton Country Club
Time TBA
Lecture Center, Stainton Hall Friday, October 16 &
Saturday, October 17
Friday, May 8
Homecoming/Reunion Weekend
Grandparents’ Day (Middle School and
Upper School)
12:30 p.m. to 3:30 pm.
The Pennington School Campus
attention alumni
Stay Connected - Keep in Touch

Win one of five prizes*

More and more, we are communicating with our alumni via email
and other electronic communication – don't be left out of the
loop! Send us your current email address and you will be eligible Please email:
to win one of five prizes* – and we will be sure how to keep you
1. Joanne McGann at
informed about campus/alumni events and other news. [email protected]

2. Put email update and your name

in the subject line (e.g., "email
update Patty Pennington").
*Drawing to be held on

2
Alumni Day, May 2, 2009.
We will notify winners
*All updated emails will be entered
via email (of course!). in a drawing for one of five (your
choice) Pennington sweatshirts or
baseball caps.