Cushing Today - Spring 2018

SPRING 2018

Cushing Today C USH I N G AC ADEMY MAG AZINE

MEET DR. RANDY BERTIN Cushing Academy’s Incoming 13th Head of School

DEDICATING LEE HOUSE AND SANBORN HOUSE

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR OLYMPIC ATHLETES!

Cushing Today SPRING 2018

Cushing Academy exists for students and develops curious, creative, and confident learners and leaders. Cushing Today is a publication of Cushing Academy’s Office of Marketing and Communications. Co-Heads of School Margaret Lee Catherine Pollock Incoming Head of School Dr. Randy Bertin Cushing Today Editor Claudia Markey Director of Marketing and Communications Heather Hill ’90 Director of Alumni and Parent Relations Brett Torrey ’85 Contributing Writers Jen Cronin Heather Hill ’90 Karen Lemieux Amy Logan Claudia Markey Photography Heather Hill ’90 Tom Kates Claudia Markey Tim Morse Jeff Porter Sincere Metal Works Lily Tammik ’18 Brett Torrey ’85 Andy Wang ’20 Phil Wexler Gechuan Jack Xu ’20 Design Cheney & Company Printing Allied Printing Services, Inc. Cushing Today welcomes your class notes, photography, story ideas, and comments. Please send them to communications@cushing.org or call 978-827-7000 or mail to: Communications Office Cushing Academy 39 School Street Ashburnham, MA 01430

In This Issue

UP FRONT

2 EMBRACING OUR LEGACY 4 MEET DR. RANDY BERTIN 8 DEDICATING LEE HOUSE AND SANBORN HOUSE

PENGUIN PROFILES 12 Chris Sheehan, Faculty Member 14 Stewart DeLeon ’19 15 Bari Tuka ’21 29 Genie Kang ’18 ON CAMPUS 16 Penguin Globe Sculpture from Start to Finish 18 Updated Athletic Facilities 21 Cushing Rocks! Young Women in Engineering 22 Performing Arts in Review 24 Snapshots from CA 26 Faculty Professional Development

Keep up with Cushing! Curious about Commencement 2018? Seeking the latest updates

27 Dining Commons and Ash House Renovation 28 Cushing Robotics Reaches New Heights 30 People of Color and Student Diversity Leadership Conferences

on tournaments, Performing Arts events, student academic

PENGUIN NATION

achievements, and more?

32 Q&A with Brett Torrey ’85

cushing.org contains a wealth of

34 On the Road

information and updates about

36 Congratulations to our Olympic Athletes

the Academy.

38 Class Notes

Looking for photos? cushing.org/photo-gallery

44 In Memoriam

has hundreds of albums to

JUST FOR FUN

enjoy. All of our photos are

48 Pen to Paper

downloadable so you can easily share your Cushing memories.

New or renewed facility

ON THE COVER: The bronze penguin statue outside Painting by Carina Ye ’18.

of Watkins Field House. Photo by Gechuan Jack Xu ’20.

SPRING 2018

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T

he National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) asserts in its Principles of Good Practice, “The board is the guardian of the school’s mission.” Along with execution of the Board of Trustees’ fiduciary duty on behalf of Cushing, these principles

Embracing Our Legacy and Positioning for Our Future

state that, as a best practice, “The board adopts a clear state-

ment of the school’s mission, vision, and strategic goals and establishes policies and plans consistent with this statement.” In fulfillment of that crucial responsibility, in July 2017 the Board of

2017–2022 STRATEGIC PLAN STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

Trustees approved the Academy’s Strategic Plan for 2017–2022, Embracing

Our Legacy and Positioning for Our Future. The process began in August 2016 with a comprehensive analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing Cushing Academy. The planning process was designed to op­timize input from students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni and the Board. We thank all who participated for their thoughtful input, which resulted in 27 iterations of the Plan leading to the adopted version. Nine Strategic Initiatives were identified (see sidebar). Our plan is ambitious, but it will help us map a sustainable future, steward our resources more effectively, and emerge a stronger institution that is best positioned to achieve its mission for our students. I encourage you to read the Plan, which can be found on our website in both full and summary versions. If you have been on campus during the last two years, you know that we have completed several building and renovation projects, including the construction of the Watkins Field House and of Lee House and Sanborn House dormitories, the replacement of the turf on Quimby Field, and the renovation of the Theodore Iorio Arena. Our work to improve the campus is not yet complete. Currently Ashburnham House and our Dining Commons are undergoing renovation and expansion, including a new state-of-the-art kitchen, and we look forward to celebrating these newest projects at their completion in fall 2018. (A video tour of the future dining hall can be found at cushing.org/dininghallwalkthrough.) The goal of these projects, and of all our buildings and facilities, is to support our students, faculty and staff in fulfillment of our mission, “to exist for students and to develop curious, creative, and confident learners and leaders.” A great privilege and pleasure of serving as a Trustee is the opportunity to talk with students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumni on campus

 Develop a Student-Centered Culture  Develop a Sense of Self-Esteem and Achievement Through the Visual Arts, the Performing Arts, and Athletics  Enable Students with Diverse Learning Styles to Each Excel Developmentally and Academically  Provide Facilities to Support the Academy’s Academic and Student Life Programs  Invest in Human Resources  Establish Authentic Alumni and Parent Networks  Create an Economically Sustainable Business Model  Develop Best Practice Governance Models  Create a Data Based Culture Through the Use of Technology Best Practices

throughout the year. We deeply value your input, and we thank the entire Cushing community for your continued support of this very special school. We invite and welcome your ongoing partnership as we work to further strengthen Cushing for generations to come.

The Strategic Plan is available at cushing.org/strategicplan

Sincerely,

Colette de Labry

Chair, Board of Trustees

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CUSHING TODAY

UP FRONT

A

s the spring semester quickly moves toward the end of another year and Commencement, we watch our students enthusiastically embrace all that Cushing offers them—in academics, residential life and student activities, arts, and athletics. Hard work, epiphanies, challenges, and laughter abound, and

the students’ academic and personal growth is deeply fulfilling to us and to Cushing’s remarkable faculty who teach and mentor—in classrooms, in rehearsals and athletic practices, and in the dorms and the dining hall. The Cushing experience shapes students’ lives forever, and it is a great privilege to share in this formative experience. Along with the implementation of our Strategic Plan, this year has seen completion of another institutional benchmark: the decennial review and granting of continuing accreditation by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). As they describe it, “NEASC accreditation is a system of accountability that is ongoing, voluntary, and comprehensive in scope.” The process, which independent schools and colleges undergo in ten-year cycles, provides a wonderful opportunity for schools to reflect on and review all aspects of their programs. Beginning with an in-depth self-study conducted over a period of 18–24 months, the process also included a peer review of our programs and practices, informed by the self-study. A Visiting Committee composed of faculty and administrators from schools throughout New England spent three days on campus, concluding with an extensive written report, as well as commendations and recommendations. A thorough follow-up process ensures progress on recommended actions. We are proud of the insightful work done by our faculty in this process and, most importantly, of the work done each day by all our faculty and staff in fulfillment of our mission and our commitment to students. Our work as Co-Heads of School during this time of transition has been extremely rewarding. As a community, Cushing very much looks forward to the arrival and official start of incoming Head of School Dr. Randy Bertin in July. We have greatly appreciated your support during our interim leadership, and we look forward to returning to other roles in this vibrant, student-centered community. We hope to see many of you on campus or at an event soon, whether at a game, exhibition, performance, or reception. It is an exciting time to be on campus and an exciting time to be a Penguin! With best wishes,

Margaret Lee

Catherine Pollock

Affairs and Student Life

Outreach, Administrative Services

Co-Head of School for Academic

Co-Head of School for Admissions,

SPRING 2018

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Meet Dr. Randy Bertin CUSHING ACADEMY’S INCOMING THIRTEENTH HEAD OF SCHOOL

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CUSHING TODAY

UP FRONT

”The world can count on seeing great things from Cushing Academy in the years to come.“ — DR. BERTIN

On October 30, 2017, the Board of Trustees announced the unanimous appointment of Dr. Randy R. Bertin as the thirteenth Head of Cushing Academy, effective July 1, 2018.

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s Head of School at Besant Hill School in Ojai, Calif., since 2011, Dr. Bertin leads a vibrant and internationally diverse learning and living community. His commitment to students and his passion for excellence in academic and residential life, the arts, and athletics shone in his interviews and meetings

with the Search Committee, the Board, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and parents. Before his appointment as Head of School at Besant Hill, Dr. Bertin served there as Director of Admissions and Financial Aid, Director of Advancement, and Assistant Head of School for Advancement. Dr. Bertin and family

He previously spent seven years at Stoneleigh-Burnham School in Massachusetts, where he taught science and was an Athletic Trainer, Dorm Parent, Director of Athletics, and Development Officer. Dr. Bertin was awarded his Doctor of Education from Pepperdine University. He received his M.S. in Exercise Science from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and his B.S. in Kinesiology: Athletic Training from the University of New Hampshire. Randy and his wife Karen are proud parents of four children, and the Bertins look forward to making their home in this wonderful community and to returning to their New England roots. In the months leading up to his arrival, Dr. Bertin made several visits to Cushing for special events, including Winter Family Weekend and Revisit Day; he also attended a number of receptions hosted by Cushing alumni, parents, and trustees on both coasts. These events were a wonderful opportunity for members of the Cushing community to meet our incoming Head of School and provided Dr. Bertin with important perspectives of Penguins past, present, and future. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Bertin and his family to Penguin Nation!

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You’ve cited the warmth of the community, the student-centered philosophy, and a shared commitment to a strong future as factors that attracted you to Cushing. Are there specific moments or conversations that have deepened your insight into our community? I would have to say that it is the totality of my experiences with the school community and Board of Trustees. In my first interview, I remember that the conversation was not forced, search committee participants had a sense of humor and were down to earth, and I left the discussion feeling like we could talk even longer than we did (this initial conversation went over our time limit and was constantly engaging and reciprocal). This sentiment continued during additional conversations with the Board; Board Chair, Colette de Labry; and Co-Heads, Peggy Lee and Catherine Pollock. When I visited campus as a finalist, I spoke with a group of students that also felt comfortable and welcoming. Following the meeting, one student stayed behind and was particularly inquisitive about my plans for Cushing. I

An Interview with Dr. Bertin To read the official announcement of Dr. Bertin’s appointment, visit cushing.org/appointment

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told him my plan was to “learn more about the school, and to help Cushing be the best school it can be.” We went on to have a very authentic discussion about this student’s experience over the last four years and his hesitations for welcoming a new Head of School. I walked away from that interaction with a real appreciation for what was important to this particular student, and it resonated with what was important to me: community. This student’s dedication to the Academy was reflective of the greater community as a whole.

UP FRONT

”I have always thought that what makes this career special is that on any given day, you have the opportunity to help students improve, and to encourage them to develop new skills into lifelong habits.“ — DR. BERTIN

As an educator, you’ve chosen boarding schools. Why? I have always thought that what makes this career special is that on

dents at Jewett House for opportunities to engage with the community on a regular basis and to get to know the student body. I am also happy

any given day, you have the opportunity to help students improve, and

to be getting back to New England where I can ski on a more regular

to encourage them to develop new skills into lifelong habits. Boarding

basis and enjoy other winter activities. Growing up in New Hampshire,

schools are particularly special because this can happen in so many

I spent most free weekends and some weekdays at Wildcat Mountain

different ways as curriculum is present in so many aspects of student

and do miss that experience. If I have to choose one in particular, I’d

life—opportunities happen within the classroom, but also in the dorms

pick dusting off my skis to accompany a weekend ski trip.

and art studios, on the stage or athletic fields, and during activities and social interactions. I have always believed that because of this, the curriculum at a boarding school is the sum of everything that the school

What advice might you give to new students preparing to enter Cushing? I would give any new student the same advice that I would give to a

does with intention. Imagine the opportunities that a student has to

new head of school—be yourself. Life at a boarding school demands con-

achieve growth in every aspect of his/her life because knowledgeable

nection in a way that no other environment does. Because of this, we

and professional faculty and staff have the opportunity to structure

are at the mercy of each member of the community. The best way that

experiences so that learning opportunities are constant. I cannot think

you can get the most out of this opportunity is to engage and participate

of a better way to educate students.

wholeheartedly... as you.

As a leader, what accomplishment has made you most proud? I am very proud of my time at Besant Hill School and certainly leave an amazing team and school community behind as I transition to

As you look to transition to your new role, how would you encourage others to support Cushing to promote its continuing success? Schools are more challenged than at any other point in history to

Cushing. While we completely turned around the school over the last

meet enrollment and revenue goals. Students applying to Cushing com-

seven years—by constructing several buildings through the school’s first

monly apply to several other schools, and competition is fierce to have

comprehensive capital campaign, erasing our debt, establishing cash re-

the best group of students attend the Academy. Additionally, annual

serves, enhancing and adding to the curriculum, creating and executing

giving, which is a budgeted revenue line of the budget, each year is

an ambitious strategic plan, and much more—I am most proud of the

more and more difficult to achieve. The school is entering a period of its

culture that we built at the school. This culture is now the foundation

history with these factors in mind, combined with external political fac-

that allows and encourages each employee to attain personal goals and

tors which may bring additional challenges to fundraising, enrollment

continued growth, which benefits the students and school.

of international students, and other areas that boarding schools have

Having embraced the 24/7 nature of boarding school life, you have worn many hats. If you could teach a particular class, coach a sport, or lead an activity at Cushing, what would it be, and why? At this point, I have taught Health, Nutrition, Anatomy and

regularly depended upon as part of their livelihood. As I come into the community, I do so with a focus on the conservative fiscal management of the Academy to be able to not only withstand these times, but to thrive in them. It is my goal to be sure we are not reactive to the changing landscape of education, but instead are proactive and a top choice

Physiology, Sports Medicine, and AP Economics. I have also coached

for the Penguins of tomorrow. I chose Cushing because I believe in its

Boys’ Varsity Basketball and Baseball, and have volunteered in com-

mission, community, and the ability to be an effective and sustainable

munity organizations including AYSO Soccer, Pony Baseball, and AAU

educational institution. The world can count on seeing great things from

Basketball. I have also led several activities such as ski trips and outdoor

Cushing Academy in the years to come. I look forward to getting to know

education trips. For activities, I think that it would be great to have stu-

the Cushing Academy family and hope you will join me in this work.

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UP FRONT

A beautiful autumn day served as the backdrop for the dedication of Cushing’s two newest dormitories in honor of legendary Silver Penguins Margaret “Peggy” Lee and Wayne Sanborn. The ceremony, held on Oct. 21, 2017, on the Lee House and Sanborn House lawn, brought together alumni, parents, students, faculty, trustees, family, and friends to pay tribute to Mrs. Lee and Mr. Sanborn.

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fter a warm welcome to guests, hosts Yashika Thakurani ’18 and Cameron Berube ’18 shared their experiences as residents of Lee and Sanborn Houses. Representing the Board of Trustees, Chair Colette de

Labry then expressed the sentiments of many as she noted, “We are privileged to be celebrating two remarkable educators and individuals who have given so much of themselves to Cushing and to its students.” She also expressed the community’s thanks to the E.G. Watkins Family Foundation and to all who worked to bring the new dormitories to completion, noting the installation of 48 works of student and alumni art throughout the dorms and a new student sculpture created for the site. Retired English faculty member Dr. Norman Carey and Varsity Girls’ Ice Hockey Coach Valerie Bono ’97 shared reflections on the tremendous impact that Mrs. Lee and Mr. Sanborn have had on this community. After expressions of gratitude by Mrs. Lee and Mr. Sanborn, the dedication closed with tours of the dormitories.

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CUSHING TODAY

Lee House and Sanborn House

HONORING PEGGY LEE Excerpts from the Dedication Ceremony

Dr. Norman Carey Retired English Faculty Member Noting her service since 1984 as a dedicated English as a Second Language teacher and department chair, Academic Dean, Director of the Summer Session, and now Co-Head of school, Dr. Carey continued, “The thing you need to know about Peggy, if you don’t already know it (and many of us do) is that she is uncompromising in her pursuit of excellence in everything she has ever done for the school. As a teacher, Peggy puts the rest of us to shame. I remember doing duty in Dumas House one evening when Peggy came into the dorm to go over an essay with one of her students. This was not an exceptional occurrence. Peggy routinely chased down each student she had, day or night, to go over the latest piece of writing he or she had done. Her dedication—her devotion, really—to her students was unlike anything I had ever witnessed in my career. She placed her students’ learning and growth above everything else. She is beloved by those students who were lucky enough to have her as a teacher, and our international alumni continue to offer testimonials to how she changed their lives. As a teacher and as an administrator, Peggy internalized the advice

“Peggy and I worked side by side

of former Head of School Dr. Joseph Curry to

tirelessly for many years to make

place the needs of our students above our own.

Cushing a better place. From today

She is herself a perfect model for what the ideal teacher should be. I would add that Peggy did all this, accomplished all these things, without fanfare or boast or complaint. She is one of the most selfless people I have ever known. Peggy Lee taught many of her colleagues what was important in this profession, and at this school. We all—colleagues, students, parents, and alumni—owe her a debt that cannot ever be properly repaid. Let Lee House serve as a testament to future generations of what Cushing is—and what it can be—for all who know what the name Lee stands for.”

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CUSHING TODAY

forward we will remain side by side, bricks and mortar, forever.” — WAYNE SANBORN

Penguin

UP FRONT PROFILES

HONORING WAYNE SANBORN Excerpts from the Dedication Ceremony

Valerie Bono ’97 Varsity Girls’ Ice Hockey Coach TOP L–R: Peggy Lee; Dr. Norm Carey pays tribute to Peggy Lee BOTTOM, L–R: Wayne Sanborn, Peggy Lee, Trustee Emeritus Edward G. Watkins ’56, Karen Watkins; Gathering outside Lee House; Valerie Bono ’97, Wayne Sanborn

It is so hard to put into words what Mr. Sanborn means to me and this community. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Sanborn 23 years ago when I visited Cushing Academy for the first time as a potential student/athlete. From 1974 to 2011, Mr. Sanborn held countless roles in our community. He was the athletic director, the assistant headmaster, dorm head, head athletic trainer, football coach, director of plant and property, development lead. He was instrumental in nearly every aspect of the current athletic program. We

Interested in how this sculpture came to be? Turn to page 16.

would never be where we are today without his unwavering support and commitment to building something very special. He was passionate and committed to having the best facilities, the best training, and the best opportunities for success for all athletes. He did all this quietly without fanfare. With all the roles he filled over the years, his greatest achievements came in the lives of the kids he impacted. He influenced thousands of student-athletes who ran these fields and courts and skated on that ice. He built a team culture and a tradition of success for all athletes in all sports. He created opportunities for each of us to grow and develop into confident leaders. He treated every athlete with the same respect, girls or boys, freshmen or seniors. He held us all to a high standard both on and off the field of athletics. Everyone wanted to work hard for Mr. Sanborn because he worked hard for all of us. Mr. Sanborn is humble and kind, generous and loving. He perfectly balances those amazing qualities with grit and toughness, strength and passion. It is so fitting that we stand in front of the beautiful Sanborn House, celebrating the life and legacy of Mr. Sanborn, one of the greatest builders of our Cushing community.

SPRING 2018

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Chris Sheehan AN EVERYDAY HERO

EVERYONE TAKES A DIFFERENT PATH

and career development. Through all of this,

to Cushing, but second-year Spanish teacher

however, he never lost sight of his education.

lives with his wife, Juliana Zappi Sheehan, who

Chris Sheehan’s path was more circuitous

“There’s a lot of downtime,” he said. “Some

is currently studying law at Suffolk Law School

than most.

people watched movies or whatever, but I went

in Boston, Mass.), and Head Coach of Varsity

to school online.”

B Boys’ Hockey, Mr. Sheehan leads a radically

Raised in a Massachusetts hockey family, Mr. Sheehan knew about Cushing as a young

He left the Army in 2011, and returned to

Now also a Dorm Head of Price Hall (where he

different life after more than a decade in the

man, and even had a few friends who attended

the States, where he continued his school-

Army. But he keeps a picture on his wall: a group

the Academy. He played hockey for Lynnfield

ing, graduating from the University of

of camouflage-clad young men in the desert,

High School and, after graduating, took his

Massachusetts Lowell in 2015. He received

surrounded by military equipment. The picture

game to University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

his master’s degree from Middlebury College

helps honor his experience while reminding him

for a couple of years before heading to Barcelona,

in August of 2017, all thanks to the GI Bill’s

to be grateful for what he has. “Not all of the men in that picture are still with us.”

where he played in a semi-professional club league for three years. Living in Barcelona was a great way to learn Spanish, of course. Mr. Sheehan soon realized that he had a facility for the language and that he wanted to teach it to others. He returned to the United States and went back to school to pursue this newfound inspiration. By the time two planes flew into the World Trade Center in New York City on September 11, 2001, he had been serving in the Army Reserves for about a year. The best-laid plans of many people were undone on that day. Deeply struck by the horror of the event and its aftermath, he asked to be assigned to active duty. His plans to

“Thanksgiving should be every day. I’m not always

but my students know how much I appreciate my life and having them in my life. I think

good at that, but my

they can understand where I’m coming from.”

students know how much

Sheehan’s passion and leadership skills have

I appreciate my life and

Cushing students. Known for his upbeat and

And they do. In just two short years, Mr. made a noticeable imprint on the lives of

having them in my life. I

lively classes, he has made valuable connec-

think they can understand

grounds. Erin King ’18, one of his students

where I’m coming from.”

tions with Penguins of all ages and backand advisees, spoke to Cushing Today about his ability to bring a smile to her face when she has needed it most. She confessed, “I honestly

finish school and to teach were put on hold.

could write a whole book about the impact Mr.

Duty first brought him to work as a combat medic for the 309th Combat Support Hospital

education benefit. In addition to finishing his

in Bedford, Mass., followed by his position as a

degrees, Mr. Sheehan worked to assist other

heavy equipment construction supervisor with

veterans in pursuing education.

the famed 82nd Airborne Division. In this role,

“Thanksgiving should be every day,” he went on to say. “I’m not always good at that,

He began his teaching career at Cushing in

Sheehan has had on me.” It seems that many others could contribute a chapter. Residents of Price Hall, for example, readily spoke from the heart when asked about

Mr. Sheehan served two tours in Iraq in support

the fall of 2016 and recalls when he first came

their beloved teacher and dorm parent. “Mr.

of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During his time

to campus for an interview: Jill Stone ’19 gave

Sheehan has not only helped maximize my

in Tikrit, he remembers driving past Saddam

him a tour, and he is convinced that he’s at the

Cushing experience, he has been someone who

Hussein’s palace regularly.

Academy because of her. The way she talked

I look up to. He has always been there for me,”

about Cushing—where she grew up as the

said Holden Fry ’19. Matt McGrath ’18 echoed

geant for a combat battalion in Grafenwöehr,

daughter of Dave Stone and Beth Shoulla Stone,

Holden’s assessment of Mr. Sheehan as a role

Germany. There, he was responsible for 70

both longtime members of the Academy’s fac-

model. “He doesn’t take one day for granted,”

enlisted soldiers and their families, oversee-

ulty—struck a chord. “I immediately fell in love

he explained. “Cushing is a great place because

ing squad training, discipline, performance,

with the place,” he said.

we have community members like him.”

Mr. Sheehan then became a platoon ser-

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CUSHING TODAY

Penguin

PROFILES

Chris Sheehan’s extensive recognition in the military includes the Iraq Campaign Medal with three campaign stars, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Global War on Terror Medal.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Coach Sheehan with Captains of Varsity B Boys’ Ice Hockey Gino Bastone ’18, Holden Fry ’19, Evan Fleming ’18 • Mr. Sheehan riding his bike to class • Mr. Sheehan with Spanish class • LE Platoon OIF, 2006–2008

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Stewart DeLeon ’19 RUNNING MAKES STEWART DELEON ’19

Greg O’Connell, a 1966 graduate of Cheshire

feel alive. Stewart is an involved member

Academy, was inspired to make a differ-

of the community, a student leader, and a

ence at Cushing when he learned that after

three-year member of the Cross Country and

many years at Cheshire, Alumni and Parent

Track & Field teams who has been recognized

Relations Director Brett Torrey ’85 would

by Cushing’s Athletic Department for his

return to his own alma mater. O’Connell’s

dedication. With every stride he takes during

love of the sport, his relationship with

a run, Stewart moves past thoughts of self-

Brett, and his previous success elevating the

doubt and opportunities to take the easy road.

running program at Cheshire Academy led

Overcoming the physical and mental strain

to the establishment of the Greg O’Connell

of his runs brings him a sharper focus in the

Endowment for the Cushing Cross Country

classroom and in everyday life. “It motivates

Program. As O’Connell put it, in cross coun-

me, but also it’s a challenge,” Stewart ex-

try, “When the gun goes off, no one sits on

plained. “It pushes me to exceed myself.”

the bench.” Stewart became the first recipient

Princeton University’s Boys’ Cross Country

If you have a passion you want to support, whether it’s robotics, performing arts, or athletics, it’s possible to make a gift that will enrich the lives of Cushing students. Please contact the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations to start the conversation.

of this scholarship fund, which allowed him

Camp gave Stewart the opportunity to hone

to attend Princeton’s camp in his home state

his skills last summer. For five days in August

of New Jersey. The Endowment is fully funded

2017, he trained early in the morning, listened

as of January 2018 and will provide funding in

to speakers share how running impacted their

perpetuity for young runners at Cushing.

lives, and connected with fellow runners. “I

“There’s no limit to what you can do if

think that camp helped me in terms of pacing

you’re willing to work,” was the advice that

myself, having that mentality to never give

O’Connell gave Stewart during his visit to

up,” he said, reflecting on his season as Cross

campus in May 2017. Given Stewart’s track

Country Team Captain.

record (so to speak), it’s safe to say he took

Stewart listened keenly to the advice given by the speakers at Princeton and found the

this sentiment to heart and that his life is enriched because of it.

common ground between himself and his fellow camp-goers affirming. “Running is fun. There’s so much to it,” he said. “Running is not just an action. There’s a history and a background to it for everyone. I learned a lot from them.” His time at Princeton equipped him with a greater understanding of his health, enhanced his approach to his sport, and left him with a more defined sense of what the sport means to him. This experience would not have been possible without the generous gift of one friend of Cushing, Greg O’Connell. “I’ve been blessed with time, talent, and resources,” said O’Connell, “and I’d like to share it.”

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CUSHING TODAY

Director of Alumni and Parent Relations Brett Torrey ’85, Greg O’Connell, Co-Head of School Peggy Lee, Stewart DeLeon ’19, Cross Country Head Coach Stirling Ince

Penguin

PROFILES

The Watkins Scholar Program, established by Trustee Emeritus Edward G. Watkins ’56 and the E.G. Watkins Family Foundation, awards full need-based scholarships to twenty high-achieving students who possess a love of learning, strong leadership skills, and a desire to contribute significantly to Cushing Academy. A recipient of the Watkins scholarship is provided a fouryear scholarship as long as the Scholar is in strong academic and social standing.

Bari (center) as The Gypsy in The Who’s Tommy

Bari Tuka ’21 HAILING FROM DISTRICT HEIGHTS, MD.,

banana breads and endless batches of cookies,

freshman and member of the Watkins Scholar

one of her favorite things to do on campus.

Program Bari Tuka ’21 grew up unaware of

Now a freshman class representative, a role

boarding school until one fateful day in

she was elected to by her peers, Bari is making

church. “My uncle came and made a presenta-

the most of every opportunity that comes her

tion about the pathway to college,” she

way. She finds herself intellectually stimu-

explained. “He spoke about private schools—

lated in her English class with Dr. Carlisle

both boarding and day—and how beneficial it

(about whom she says, “She is an angel. There

could be to one’s high school experience and

tend to be a lot of them on campus!”), and she

life experience overall.” Her interest piqued,

is deepening her involvement with the per-

Bari went on to visit Cushing’s campus.

forming arts. Although she had never acted

Although she had done her research and

before, Bari took her longstanding passion of

picked out 10 schools to look at, the strong

singing and said to herself, “Let’s put yourself

sense of community at Cushing stood out to

out there. Let’s do this.” Becoming a stage

her. Bari could sense the comfort of the

manager and actor in our fall production and

home-away-from-home that Cushing becomes

performing a role in our winter musical,

to many. That indelible experience of the

Bari fell in love with the theatre and looks

Cushing family moved her to apply and,

forward to her involvement throughout her

thus, changed the trajectory of her high

Cushing career.

school career. Empowered by a fierce desire to learn and

For more information, visit cushing.org/watkins-scholar

The first member of her Nigerian family to be born in America, Bari came to Cushing

grow, Bari pushed past her initial anxiety

equipped with the perspective of two cultures

about being away from home and made con-

and a willingness to broaden her worldview

nections with her classmates that blossomed

even more. When asked about the best part of

into friendships. “At first, I just stayed in my

her Cushing experience, Bari responded,

room. I did not leave. Now, it’s different.

“The fact that I’ve opened up. I’ve been pre-

When classes aren’t going on, I’m with my

sented with so many opportunities. When I

friends.” Thanks to the community kitchen

was at home everyone around me was just like

within Lee House (an identical kitchen is also

me, and I can’t say the same about Cushing.

available in Sanborn House), Bari often makes

It’s taught me a lot, and I’m grateful because

the short walk from her residence in Alumni

I would not be where I am today without

Hall to join her friends in baking delicious

this opportunity.”

SPRING 2018

15

PENGUIN GLOBE SCULPTURE

From Start to Finish

NESTLED BETWEEN THE IMPRESSIVE FACADES of Lee and Sanborn Houses and overlooking the campus below, a new work of art stands tall. In the tradition of the School Girl, the penguin sculpture garden outside the Emily Fisher Landau Center for Visual Arts, and the bronze penguin outside the Watkins Field House, the penguin globe statue was brought to life through a collaboration between Cushing students and Bob Johnson, Chair of the Visual Arts department. Keira Abbott ’17, Arkadiy Baltser ’17, Allison Frechette ’18, Breton Lorway ’17, Carina Ye ’18, and Wesley Zeng ’19 were selected by Mr. Johnson to create the latest sculptural addition to Cushing. They began their planning in 2016.

Photos courtesy of Sincere Metal Works

ON CAMPUS

Once given the go-ahead for its construction, Mr. Johnson informed the students of the project’s parameters. From there, they hashed out the concept. The team sought to illustrate the global diversity of our past and current Cushing community. A group of penguins supporting the earth on their shoulders became the symbol of this particular Cushing legacy. Creating these sculptures requires active involvement

ranges and valleys of each continent. Collaboration with the Sincere Metal Works foundry in Chelsea, Mass., and patina applied by Mr. Johnson to tint the continents green were just a couple of the additional elements that brought the entire work together. Mr. Johnson’s facilitation of these projects with student-artists is sure to leave a lasting impression on their lives and with each new piece woven into the fabric of our

on the part of the students. Each of the three penguins

campus, Cushing continues to showcase its artistic

was cast from the maquette mold of the bronze penguin

heritage and strength. He believes that the alumni (and

statue outside the Watkins Field House. Individual parts of

future alumni) who have worked on these sculptures

the globe were cut out of copper and then covered in clay,

should feel proud of their incredible accomplishment.

which created the height and depth for the mountain

“It’s something that they’ll never forget,” he said.

SPRING 2018

17

Updated Athletic Facilities

IORIO ARENA RENOVATIONS As part of the comprehensive facilities renewal

returned as head coach of the Varsity Boys’

in order to transform and raise the Cushing

Hockey team, a position he held from 1985 to

experience to unprecedented levels, Iorio Arena

2007. Known as a powerhouse in prep hockey

underwent a seven-month renovation in ad-

for years, Cushing is well poised to continue the

vance of the 2017–2018 hockey season.

tradition well into the future.

Enhancing our current and future players’ experience, renovations include: • New arena floor, piping, and ice • State-of-the-art Crystaplex dasher board system, which is currently installed in 28 of 30 NHL rinks • Seamless acrylic shielding system to provide the most forgiving playing environment • New protective netting • Energy-efficient LED lighting system • Brightly painted ceiling, which contributes to easier puck tracking for players and fans Varsity Boys’ Head Coach Steve Jacobs (top); Varsity Girls’ Head Coach Val Bono ’97 (bottom)

• Expanded team benches

continued development of both our boys’ and girls’ hockey programs. We are grateful to our Board and to all involved for this incredible venue. The arena is one of the top venues in prep hockey and our players and staff are thankful for the opportunity to practice and play in such a world-class facility.” —Coach Steve Jacobs “Being back on campus is a dream come true. From the moment I graduated, my goal was to be the head coach of the Cushing girls’ hockey program and give back to the community what it has given to me many years ago. Prep school girls’ hockey is growing enormously across the

Among the new features and amenities are two

to develop a world-class program. Coaching alongside

returned to the Penguins’ bench in 2016, this time to coach the Varsity Girls’ Hockey team, and in 2017 after a 10-year absence, Steve Jacobs

CUSHING TODAY

school’s commitment to our student-athletes and the

• Seamless rubber flooring

familiar faces leading the program. Val Bono ’97

18

“The renovations in our facility clearly demonstrate our

country and we are so lucky to have the support to continue Coach Jacobs is absolutely fantastic. We both have a clear vision in mind for our programs and together we are excited for the continued development and opportunities ahead for Cushing hockey.” —Coach Val Bono ’97

ON CAMPUS

NEW TURF AND THE RETURN OF VARSITY FOOTBALL

dedicated student-athletes, and committed

What better timing for the resurfacing of

fans was a welcome start to the revitalized

Quimby Field than right before the fall athlet-

Varsity Football program. “It’s a great environ-

ics season and the return of Varsity Football!

ment and atmosphere out there,” said Mr.

In the summer of 2017, our artificial turf

The combined impact of a renewed facility,

Suchanek. “To see them come together and

field was replaced. That fall, Cushing accepted

compete as a team is special. They should look

an invitation to join the Evergreen League and

back and be proud of their contributions. The

once again compete in the New England Prep

score wasn’t always in our favor, but as I said to

School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) football at the

the community at one point this fall, we were

varsity level.

always confident that Penguins had our back.

Ryan Suchanek, Associate Director of Athletics and Head Coach of Varsity Football,

You supported us right to the end.” Varsity Football will remain in the Evergreen

explained that not only does the updated turf

League, and looks toward the future, and

look more natural but also its sand-based

Quimby Field will continue to host multiple

foundation creates a greater cushion for im-

sports in both fall and spring seasons and to

pact, increasing safety for all who use it.

serve as a gathering place for all Penguins.

Did you know that Cushing offers over 100 live webcasts each year? If you can’t make it to campus, this is a great way to catch a game, performance, or special event such as graduation exercises. Many thanks to the students and faculty members in our Media Productions crew who make it all happen. Watch for scheduling info at cushing.org/live-events

SPRING 2018

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CUSHING ACADEMY

Summer Session JULY 1–AUGUST 3, 2018 5-WEEK PROGRAM DAY AND BOARDING AGES 12–18

NEW FOR 2018! STEM, SCIENTIFIC FOR MORE INFO:

 Credit courses for a competitive edge  SAT Prep/TOEFL Prep  English as a Second Language (ESL)  Robotics and Engineering  Studio Art  Afternoon electives, trips throughout New England, friends for life, and more!

CUSHING.ORG/SUMMER 978-827-7700

RESEARCH, COMPETITIVE ATHLETICS 

 Academic skill-building

SUMMERSESSION@CUSHING.ORG

Endless Opportunities An Unforgettable Experience The Best Summer Ever!

ON CAMPUS

CUSHING ROCKS! Over 200 excited Penguins gathered in Cowell

Chapel last fall to attend Cushing Rocks! This much anticipated and inspiring benefit concert was created to raise funds for victims of 2017’s natural disasters in Houston, Florida, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean islands. The event was an incredible success, and we’re happy to report

that Cushing Rocks! raised $6,073 ($1,073 over goal) for the American Red Cross. There were 13 student and faculty acts. The lineup for the night was quite diverse: some performed rock ballads, others gave us a taste of classical music, and there was even a dance act. Mr. Connors’ son Seamus sang a heartwarming a cappella rendition of “God Bless America.” In the penultimate act, Co-Head of School Peggy Lee sang for the crowd, decked out in blue jeans, dark sunglasses, and a leather jacket. In addition to those who performed, students were involved in numerous aspects of the concert: Milana Yelgeldina ’18 created a t-shirt design that was sold to raise funds, Atlas Wexler ’19 and Jenny Wu ’19 designed posters, Paul Ingersoll ’20

Diana Gao ’20, Joann Ramirez ’21, Kyra Parris ’20, Jenna Viglione ’20, Folake Olorode ’19

worked the lights backstage, and Varsity Girls’

MITRE YOUNG WOMEN IN ENGINEERING

Soccer sold snacks for the cause. Numerous other

Science Department Chair Mary Frances Hanover accompanied five Cushing students to

contributions by students and community mem-

the MITRE Young Women in Engineering conference on Friday, Oct. 27, in Bedford, Mass.

bers helped make this event a big hit, and their hard work was much appreciated.

Diana Gao ’20, Kyra Parris ’20, Joann Ramirez ’21, Folake Olorode ’19, and Jenna Viglione ’20 joined the opening session, in which the keynote speaker discussed the power of networking. The girls then rotated through workshops over the course of the day. Topics included cybersecurity, programming using PYTHON, human/technology interaction, and virtual reality/augmentation. All workshops were interactive and hands-on. During lunch, the students were able to talk with female engineers about how they got their start, what education they received, and their current research projects. It was truly an amazing and empowering day.

SPRING 2018

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Performing Arts in Review CUSHING’S PERFORMING ARTS SERIES CELEBRATED ITS FOURTH SEASON The 2017–2018 Performing Arts Series continued to broaden and deepen our students’ exposure to first-rate performing artists. All events are free and open to the public. The 2017–2018 performers were: • University Dancers, the performing and touring company for the University of Massachusetts Amherst Dance Program • June Ballinger, actor and writer of the one-woman show Once In… Never Out! • Jesse Ruben, singer-songwriter • Visit cushing.org/PASeries to learn more.

THE WORKS OF DAVID IVES ON STAGE During Fall Family Weekend, Cushing Theatre tackled “the maestro of the short form” David Ives

and his three plays: Words, Words, Words; The Universal

Language; and English Made Simple. Running just under an hour, these performances were absurdist comedy at its best and illustrated the beauty and frustration of spoken language. Ives’ beautiful innuendo and language fraught with hidden meanings, coupled with a post-performance audience talkback with the cast, made for an evening rich with communication on many levels.

FROM TOP: Ghunwoo Jang ’18; Mechanics Hall in Worcester, Mass.

NEW ACHIEVEMENTS FOR CUSHING MUSICIANS In an all-time record for our school, six Cushing students were admitted to the Massachusetts Central District honors ensembles: Ray Duan ’20, Alto sax (Band); Ghunwoo Jang ’18, Piccolo (Orchestra); David Kwon ’19, Voice (Chorus); Amanda Lee ’18, Violin (Orchestra); Risa Nishino ’18, Double bass (Band); Catherine Zeng ’18, Cello (Orchestra). Ghunwoo Jang and David Kwon were also admitted to this year’s All-State James Barone ’21, son of Mike Barone ’91, in the fall play

22

CUSHING TODAY

Music Festival, where they performed at Boston’s Symphony Hall in early March.

ON CAMPUS

WINTER MUSICAL: THE WHO’S TOMMY Audiences packed Cowell Chapel for three nights over Winter Family Weekend 2018 to see The Who’s Tommy with music and lyrics by Pete Townshend and book by Des McAnuff and Pete Townshend. This classic rock opera, which debuted as a movie in 1975 and was theatrically staged

in 1993, is based on The Who’s iconic 1969 rock concept album. The Who’s Tommy is an

invigorating story of hope and the human spirit that has astounded audiences for more than four decades.

Cushing’s production of Tommy featured creative sets, dazzling lighting cues, as well

as an energetic pace that took the audience on an exciting and emotional journey. Our student cast featured players both new and familiar to the Cushing stage, including three alumni, five faculty members, and two faculty children.

RESPITE In November, the Cushing Academy Dance Program presented RESPITE. The outstanding program highlighted work from all dance classes, including Dance I/II, Dance II/III, Advanced Dance, and After School/Evening Dance classes. Along with choreography by Director of Dance Rebecca Rice, students proudly showcased their original Chinese contemporary and hip-hop work. Jazz-inspired pieces, Indian classical dance, and modern contemporary work added to the impressive variety of styles exhibited that evening.

JOIN US! The extended Cushing community is always welcome at our Perform­ing Arts events. Our Performing Arts schedule is located at cushing.org/ performing-arts-schedule. Catch select events live via our online streaming service. cushing.org/live-events You can also see some of our past performances on Cushing’s YouTube channel. youtube.com/CushingAcademy

FROM TOP: Fall coffeehouse • Jazz Band performs during Winter Celebration

Lily Tammik ’18 in The Who’s Tommy

SPRING 2018

23

Snapshots from CA

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1. First week of school 2. Varsity B Boys’ Hockey team winning Rust Cup tournament 3. Saxophone lesson 4. Fall Family Weekend 2017 5. Painting in the Emily Fisher Landau Center for the Visual Arts 6. Spirit Week “Dress Like a Teacher Day” with Mr. Kishonis 7. Photo booth at the Valentine’s dance 8. Snowy day before Winter Free Weekend 9. Sunset outside of the Main Building 10. Varsity Girls’ Hockey excited for Olympian Meghan Duggan ’06

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ON CAMPUS

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SPRING 2018

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FACULTY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Renewal, growth, the exploration of new ideas about teaching and learning in the classroom, and thoughtful engagement with career objectives are all concepts in the Professional Goals Outline that David Stone, Dean of Faculty, works to bring to life. As a result, faculty at Cushing engage with professional development opportunities yearround. Professional Development plans for summer 2018 are well underway. Here’s a list of what they’ve taken advantage of since the summer of 2017 alone!

SUMMER 2017 • Landmark College Summer Institute • NAIS Diversity Leadership Institute • Maine Media Workshop writing documentary on dance • NEACAC Annual Conference • Athletic Training Home Study Coursework • Athletic Training Technique

FALL 2017 • Organic World Language 2 Training Workshop, Classical and Modern Languages Department • The Physiology of Addiction, Dr. Ruth Potee • Landmark College Certificate Series: Executive Function and LD: Integrating Strategies, Study Skills, and Technology

Development at Phillips Andover • Independent School Management:

• AP 1-Day Workshop: Biology • AP 1-Day Workshop: Spanish Language

Balancing Your Roles as Dean of

• Ed Technology Specialists Seminar, PD

Students

2.0 • Gardner-Carney Leadership Institute

• Association of College Counselors of Independent Schools Summer Institute • Paideia Institute’s “Living Latin in Rome” Summer Program • APSI Fitchburg State: AP Spanish Language & Culture Workshop • Advanced AP Institute for Chemistry • Equity Exchange, St. Louis • Landmark College Summer Institute on Teaching Math • Maine Media Workshops + College • Organic World Language Summer Boot

Symposium • American Council on Teachers of Foreign Languages Conference • Massachusetts STEM Summit • Treating Insomnia: Evidence-Based Strategies to Help Your Clients Sleep • Fitchburg State College, M.Ed. work • Level I Track and Field Coaching Certification

• The Association of Independent Schools of New England New Teacher Institute • Provincetown Fine Arts Work Center Writing Workshop • Fitchburg State College, M.Ed. work

WINTER 2017–18 • NAIS People of Color Conference • Skillshare and Creative Bug Online Courses in the Arts • The Association of Boarding Schools Annual Conference • American Design Institute graphic

New Year, New Lenses

CUSHING TODAY

in America • The Bridge Training Institute: Anxiety and School Avoidance ≠in Youth • Women in Dance Leadership Conference • Carney Sandoe Diversity Forum • Fessenden School: MakerSpace • Teens, Anxiety and Depression: Active Strategies to Move Teens Forward

SPRING 2018 • NAIS People of Color Conference • Teachers of English as a Second Language International Conference • Wilderness First Aid Training Certification • Classes toward Master of Science in Education, Fitchburg State University • White Privilege Conference • Organic World Language Workshop Advancement of Curriculum Studies

design course • In House Professional Development Day:

26

and Frost on Writing, Virtue and Nature

• American Association for the

Camp with Oral Proficiency Interview Training

• Teachers as Scholars Seminar: Thoreau

Annual Conference • Classes toward MA in History, Southern New Hampshire University • Classes toward Doctorate in Education, Northeastern University

ON CAMPUS

DINING COMMONS AND ASH HOUSE EXPANSION AND RENOVATION Currently, the Fisher-Watkins Dining Commons and Ashburnham House are undergoing renovation and expansion, and are targeted to open in the fall. The dining hall project includes a complete renovation of our existing facility, with a 15,800-square-foot addition that will feature a new kitchen, servery, and dining spaces, as well as a new student center, campus store, and mail room on the lower level. The adjoining dormitory, Ashburnham House, will be completely updated with the reconfiguration of student rooms, the addition of two faculty apartments, new elevators, and new stairways. We look forward to the opening of these outstanding spaces that will enhance and nurture the strong sense of community at Cushing.

A video walkthrough of the future dining hall can be found at cushing.org/ dininghallwalkthrough.

SPRING 2018

27

CUSHING ROBOTICS REACHES NEW HEIGHTS This winter, Varsity Robotics took home a well-earned victory in the VEX Robotics qualifying championship in Hopkinton, Mass., and earned the Academy’s first-ever trip to the regional finals. The Southern New England Championship was held at Quinsigamond Community College on March 3 and 4, 2018. Cushing was one of 80 qualifying teams vying to make it to the VEX World Championship. Every year a different challenge is released by VEX Robotics, and the students have to design and build their robot to score as many points as possible in the game. This year, the game was called “In the Zone.” The 12 members of Cushing Robotics have been designing, build­ing, and programming their robot for this challenge since early September 2017. The seven members of the Varsity Robotics team, five of whom are seniors, have all participated in the program for several terms throughout their Cushing careers. The team dyed their hair purple on the final day of Regionals in a show of Cushing spirit and left the weekend with a sense of accomplishment. They wrote Cushing Robotics history by making it to the competition, and we are sure that it will not be their last trip to Regionals!

VARSITY ROBOTICS Genie Kang ’18 (Captain) Ethan Qiu ’18 Stanley Shen ’19 Jacky Wang ’18 (Captain) Luna Wang ’18 Tom Wu ’18 (Captain) Julian Zhou ’19 JV ROBOTICS Diana Gao ’20 Adam Ju ’19 Daniel Kang ’21 Barbara Wang ’20 Zerui Zheng ’20 FROM TOP: Cushing Robotics celebrates their first trip to the VEX Regional Championship • Captains Jacky Wang ’18, Genie Kang ’18, and Tom Wu ’18 at VEX Robotics Regionals 2018

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CUSHING TODAY

Penguin

PROFILES

Genie Kang ’18 GENIE KANG ’18 IS A FOUR-YEAR

there are 24 hours for everyone, every day. No

senior from Seoul, South Korea. A resident

one has more or less time, and it’s our deci-

and Proctor in Lee House, Co-President of

sion what to do with it.”

the Student Body along with Ethan Yu ’18,

“When I go to college I hope I can arrange

and one of three captains of the Robotics

my schedule so that I can do many differ-

team, Genie Kang strives for excellence. But

ent things. There are so many things to

more than just a high achiever, Genie is an

experience. And it’s not good to be stressed!

empathetic leader and an eager learner. When

[laughs]”

speaking with Genie, it is no surprise that

“I learned more about myself here,” she

she has gained the respect and friendship of

concluded, “and I think that’s a part of con-

her peers. In our conversation, her calm and

necting with people. I first saw differences be-

thoughtful demeanor easily gives way to

tween people. Now I see more similarities.”

Genie preparing robot 4522A for competition

effervescent laughter and smiles. However, at the start of her Cushing career, Genie was not always as outgoing. “The way I approach my life has changed,” she said. “Before I was really shy and didn’t talk a lot.” The kindness of fellow Penguins changed that. “The first thing I heard at Cushing was from Nasir Bly ’17. He said, ‘Genie, you’re so nice! Just like your name.’ That got me. After that, I tried to interact more with people.” How did she feel about running for Student Body President? “Very nervous,” she explained. “But, Mrs. Stone said I should go for it and that made me try!” Genie’s outlook on her presidential responsibility was informed by her own experience and the student leaders she admired when arriving at Cushing four years ago. “My goal wasn’t really big. I just wanted people to feel secure about being in the community. When I was a freshman, I looked to Rachel Zhu ’16. She was so nice and social. I thought, ‘How could she do that?’ Then after four years, I realized you change a lot. Little by little you gain the ability.” The Cushing experience transformed her view of others and herself. “I thought the most important thing in life was to be the best in what you do. As long as you accomplish something, you can be a little bit stressed and sometimes you don’t even have to think for yourself,” she said. “What I realized was that

Emily Wang ’18 and Genie Kang ’18 (seated) greet the first residents of Lee House for the 2017–2018 academic year.

SPRING 2018

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PEOPLE OF COLOR AND STUDENT DIVERSITY LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE Nearly 6,000 adults and students attended the People of Color Conference this year in Anaheim, Calif. This yearly conference organized by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) focuses on diversity and people of color in the independent school setting. Five Cushing faculty members and six students attended. The application process took place in the spring of 2017, and 21 students applied for those six spots. Applicants were asked to reflect on what they hoped to gain from the experience, as well as how they could use their newfound knowledge to make a difference at Cushing. In addition to attending numerous workshops, the students took part in the Student Diversity Leadership Conference all day Thursday, Nov. 30, and Friday, Dec. 1. The conference was an involved, yet engaging affair; Academic Support teacher Jessica Devin dropped the students off at 8:00 am and picked them up as late as 11:00 pm. Each Penguin was placed with a different group made up of students from around the country, where they participated in numerous activities and learning opportunities centered around areas of identity and social justice. Concurrently, Cushing’s five faculty members were involved in a separate series of workshops and listened to a number of illuminating keynote speakers. Our own French teacher Bara Mbengue and Associate Dean of Academics Berkeley Gillentine facilitated groups during this conference. This was the largest Cushing faculty group to have attended the People of Color Conference and, as we have in years past, Cushing brought the maximum number of students that the conference allows. Ms. Devin believes that our school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion has a significant and wide-reaching impact. “The work that we do every single day with all of our students benefits from the work we do at the conference. It will only make our community stronger.” In fact, engagement with this event continues for our alumni long after they have graduated; Jemmel Billingslea ’10 and Sintayehu Taye ’08, who both attended the conference during their Cushing careers, brought students from their respective independent schools to this year’s conference. Myles Bonadie ’17, who now attends college in California, also met up with the current Cushing group at the conclusion of the conference.

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CUSHING TODAY

FROM TOP: Students and faculty enjoying Anaheim, Calif. • Myles Bonadie ’17 visits the group on the beach • Jemmel Billingslea ’10, Jessica Devin, Sintayehu Taye ’08

The Cushing Experience and Penguin Pride: Pass It On!

When it comes to attracting and enrolling future Penguins, word-of-mouth marketing plays a vital role. Your stories, recommendations, referrals, and willingness to spread the word about a Cushing Academy education help build credibility, strengthen our brand, and resonate with prospective families better than any traditional advertising.

Whether you’re a Cushing graduate, parent, or past parent, here are a few ways you can make an extraordinary difference in Cushing’s enrollment growth: SPREAD THE WORD about Cushing’s academic year and Summer Session programs to parents whose children may benefit from a Cushing education. HOST A REGIONAL ADMISSIONS RECEPTION for local families looking for educational opportunities. ATTEND EVENTS in your area. SUPPORT CUSHING ON SOCIAL MEDIA by sharing and promot­ing upcoming events such as Open House days, student achievements, performances, campus improve­ ments, and alumni news.

For more information on how you can be an advocate for Cushing, email admissions@cushing.org. Thank you!

Q&A WITH DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AND PARENT RELATIONS BRETT TORREY ’85

“One thread that I hear consistently is that people’s time at the ‘Cush’ changed their lives, as it did mine.”

Penguin

NATION

Brett Torrey and family (above) • Brett Torrey during his dear old Cushing days (opposite page)

You’ve been back at Cushing for a little over two years. Except when you travel, you are on campus most days; you live on campus and advise students as well. What is the most noticeable change you see in Cushing life from when you were a student? How is a Cushing student of today different? So many more distractions and stresses are placed upon high school students today. With their steady access to technology, the world has gotten closer, but it also weighs on them more. A student can’t tune out the world. Gone are the

I have so many fond memories of my time outside of the classroom, as well. The Henrys cooking breakfast for the students in Cooke

What kind of role can alumni play in the Cushing of today? Be involved! And remember that involve-

Hall on exam days, whipping up french toast

ment can take many shapes. Come home to

on the stove for 30 kids. Speaking of Cooke, I do

Cushing and see the Watkins Field House, the

remember a little “off hours” cooking we did on

renovations underway in the Fisher-Watkins

an electric frying pan in my room!

Dining Commons. Come to a game; join us for

Have you acquired one memory of your time as director that sticks out to you as special? I was fortunate to have had three or four

an event. Let us take you on a tour to see all the changes and what hasn’t changed. Donate to

the Annual Fund (in any amount) because that Fund really touches every aspect of supporting

days when your big distraction was waiting in

meetings with Mary Fern (beloved longtime

life at Cushing. Call us, email us. Let us know

line for the pay phone in the dorm hall, dime in

faculty member) before her passing. Singing

about your good and challenging news and your

hand to make a collect call, or carving out time

Christmas carols at her assisted living facility is

milestones. Connect with other alumni through

to write a letter home. Today’s students must

a great memory.

social media. Mentor a student. And of course,

balance those distractions with academics, with

Our annual Reunions always provide great

come to Reunion! You always have a home here. Once a Penguin, always a Penguin.

the arts, and with athletics. That balancing act

moments! This past year we had a Ferris wheel

requires a set of skills that will serve them well

on campus provided generously by alumni EJ

in their lives beyond Cushing. Of course, the

Dean ’94 and Norma Silsby Dean ’94. Paula

facilities have changed, such as the Watkins

Heslin Nelson ’53 and I rode it together, and

Field House and the Emily Fisher Landau Center

when it stopped at the top Paula commented

for the Visual Arts. I still remember when the

that she had never seen Cushing from that per-

art studios were on the top floor of the former

spective—it was breathtaking. But really, I’ve

Science Building.

had so many great experiences since I’ve been

One thread that I hear consistently is that

back as Alumni Director, swapping stories with

people’s time at the “Cush” changed their lives,

alumni from all eras, having good, long phone

as it did mine.

What hasn’t changed? That our faculty still exists for students

calls, visits on campus and off. Listening and

You travel across the country meeting with alumni, families, really all members of the Cushing family. What do you hear “out there” about folks’ feelings about Cushing? I hear a lot of fond memories, to be sure.

and that Cushing is a truly student-centered

comparing notes. I’m lucky to be able to serve a

How can Penguins reach out to you?

environment.

place I love in this capacity.

By calling the Office of Alumni and Parent

What kind of student were you? You could say I was an average student who

What is your favorite spot on campus? Being up in the clock tower and seeing the

worked very hard to achieve average grades. I

entire campus and all of Ashburnham. It’s

was extremely fortunate for the extra support I

such a special vantage point. When I was a stu-

received. Of course, sometimes you don’t truly

dent I was most at home at Quimby Field and in

understand how fortunate you are until after

Heslin gym. Now, it’s the Main Building.

Relations at 978-827-7400, emailing alumniprograms@cushing.org or joining our Facebook page for alumni, Cushing Academy Penguin Nation.

the experience.

SPRING 2018

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On the Road SUMMER 2017–WINTER 2018

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Members of the Cushing community continue to generously host events across the country and around the world. Thank you to all of our hosts for their time and commitment to Cushing Academy and for welcoming Penguins past, present, and

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future with such warmth and hospitality.

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FROM TOP L–R: 1. NYC • 2. Chicago, IL • 3. Carlsbad, CA • 4. Gloucester, MA • 5. West Hartford, CT • 6. Syracuse, NY • 7. Freeport, ME • 8. Westport, CT • 9. San Francisco, CA • 10. Naples, FL • 11. Newtown, PA • 12. Oakland, CA • 13. Castleton, VT • 14. Pawtucket, RI • 15. Miami, FL

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Penguin

NATION

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FROM TOP L–R: 16. Palm Beach, FL • 17. Los Angeles, CA • 18–19. Ashburnham, MA • 20. Houston, TX • 21. Mexico City, Mexico • 22. Miami, FL • 23. Groton, MA • 24–25. Palm Beach, FL • 26. Dallas, TX • 27. Monterrey, Mexico • 28. Boca Raton, FL • 29. Boulder, CO • 30. Bradenton, FL • 31. Washington, DC

SPRING 2018

35

Congratulations to our Olympic Athletes! PENGUIN PRIDE SOARED to new heights during the 2018 Winter Games as three former hockey players took to the Olympic stage in PyeongChang. The Cushing community is incredibly proud of these athletes for their achievements and for representing Cushing. We send a special message of congratulations to Meghan Duggan ’06, who led the U.S. Women’s Hockey Team to their first gold medal in two decades!

#17 CHRIS BOURQUE ’04

#10 MEGHAN DUGGAN ’06

#14 BROC LITTLE ’07

USA Men’s Olympic Hockey Team

Captain, USA Women’s Olympic Hockey Team

USA Men’s Olympic Hockey Team

2010 Silver Medalist 2014 Silver Medalist 2018 Gold Medalist

“Stick to the process. Stick together. Ultimately, when you stick together, when you stay united, you are able to find success.” Meghan Duggan ’06 in a video message to current Cushing hockey players

36

CUSHING TODAY

SHOW YOUR

N I P U R G IDE N E ! P READY TO UPDATE YOUR CUSHING WARDROBE? NEED A GIFT FOR A CUSHING GRAD OR FUTURE PENGUIN? MISSING THOSE DEAR OLD CUSHING DAYS? WHEN IT COMES TO PURPLE AND WHITE, (AND EVEN THOSE “PURPLE AND GRAYS”), YOU’LL FIND IT ALL IN CUSHING’S CAMPUS STORE.

If you can’t make it to campus, please contact store manager Jody Newton at 978-827-7127 or jnewton@cushing.org and she will be happy to take and ship your order.

Class Notes 1937

resenting the Alumni Association).

(retired in Seattle) and Dean Herman

Congratulations to Virginia

He encourages his classmates to join

(still practicing law and managing

Pshalgowski Shelley who celebrated

him during Reunion Weekend. Tom

his vineyard in Sonoma). Tom fondly

her 100th birthday with family and

and his wife, Diane, continue to be

remembers his four years at Cushing

friends in Havasu Lake, Calif.!

very active in the Seattle community

and is happy to support the school

through Rotary, the USONW Board,

with his volunteer leadership on the

and serving 17 years as Co-Chairs of

Council and through the Annual Fund.

Earlier this year, Al Hixon presented

Seattle Fleet Week. They both are

He asks that all alumni do their best

the 25th annual Jazz Service at the

national leaders with Navy League

to participate with a gift and that

Longboat Island Chapel, in Longboat

of the United States, supporting

donations of all sizes are important

Key, Fla., to the largest attendance

those who serve the sea services

and greatly appreciated.

ever at the Chapel. Every pew and

and their families. They are also still

available chair was filled by over 400

active in tourism and the National

1975

folks who came to hear his group

Tour Association. In addition to his

Curtis Spence was named to the

of eight performers. He was given a

active engagement with Cushing’s

Minority Opportunities Athletic

plaque and a wonderfully decorated

Alumni Council, Tom stays in regular

Association’s Board of Directors. He

cake. He continues to play three to

contact with best friends Blair Hopps

is currently in his third year as the

1948

70th

five gigs a week in the Sunshine State.

1951 Beverly Stevens Prakelt writes, “Hello, fellow Penguins. I regret not

A Legacy of Generosity

having visited Cushing for several

Cushing is deeply honored and grateful to again be a beneficiary

years but enjoy keeping in touch

of the Allied Printing Services Charitable Foundation’s

through Facebook and would be

Annual Golf Tournament, which will take place Thursday, June

interested in hearing from more folks

14, 2018, at Tunxis Country Club in Farmington, Conn. Since the

from the late 1940s and into the ’50s. I

tournament’s founding in 2008, the Foundation has contrib-

have been in my condo in Burlington,

uted more than $162,000 in proceeds to the Academy. The

Vt., for almost 35 years now and hope

tournament also benefits Connecticut Children’s Medical

to stay as long as I can. I am thankful

Center, Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, and the Memorial Sloan

to be in good health. Somehow, I keep

Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.

busy and my big fluffy Maine Coon

cat, Mr. Tigger, keeps me company.

Sommers, founder of Allied Printing Services, enrolled their

This winter I began to work on family

three children at Cushing: Heather (Perry) ’71, John ’74, and

genealogy, which is never ending!

Gerry ’75. John Sr. generously served as a Cushing Trustee, as

Thanks for all that you folks do to keep

did his son John ’74. The next generation continued the Cushing

Cushing strong.”

legacy when John’s children Rachel ’07 and Matt ’11 followed

1966/1967

38

CUSHING TODAY

their father, aunt, and uncle to Ashburnham. The Sommers family’s generosity and spirit of leadership have touched many

Ken Tonis ’66 and Dean Boecher

facets of the Cushing community over decades, and their many

’67 met up for a day of golf in Bonita

Cushing friends and classmates mourned the untimely passing

Springs, Fla., and reminisced

of Gerry in 2007 and of John in 2013. They are fondly remembered

about their days at Cushing as post-

and greatly missed.

graduates, 50 years later.

1970 FROM TOP: Virginia Pshalgowski Shelley ’37 celebrating 100 years! • Al Hixton ’48 • Ken Tonis ’66 and Dean Boecher ’67 • Tom Jaffa ’70

An enduring relationship began when Betina and John F.

Tom Jaffa is enjoying being connected with Cushing through his role as Chair of the CA Alumni Council (rep-

For more information about this year’s tournament,

please contact the Alumni Office at 978-827-7400 or alumniprograms@cushing.org.

Penguin

NATION

Assistant Athletics director at New

1979

York University, where he oversees

Chris Ingram writes, “After five years

the day-to-day operation of NYU’s

in Florida, I’m now living in South

Brooklyn Athletics Facility. He

Jersey, outside Philadelphia. I’m still

previously served as the Director of

plugging away at the keyboard and

Athletics at NYU-Poly. His experience

have had a couple of shorter literary

includes positions coaching women’s

pieces published in the past several

basketball at Brown University, and

months. For kicks, I’ve also self-pub-

men’s basketball at Mitchell College

lished the first book in a fun mystery

and the Community College of Rhode

series called The Redhead Detective.

Island. He has been engaged in work

Book one is titled The Redhead is Dead.

that has involved youth, athletics,

Look for it on Amazon! Two more in

and fundraising throughout his pro-

the series are ready to go. Feel free to

fessional life.

check out my new website at chrisin-

1976

gram.org.”

Leesa-Lee Kemp-Keith writes, “I

1980

arrived at Cushing in 1972 from a small

The Cushing community was honored

dairy farming family. I met [former

to welcome back and honor Shiva

faculty member] Mona Rice, and she

Saboori as the 2017 recipient of

opened my eyes and heart to dance. I

the Cushing Academy Leadership

can still remember her driving the old

Award and as the keynote speaker

Cushing van down Route 2 to Boston

at Cushing’s 2017 commencement. A

that first time, when she took our

family physician and HIV specialist,

class to the Boston Ballet’s production

Shiva has dedicated her career to out-

of The Nutcracker with Arthur Fiedler

reach, education, and the treatment

conducting. It was my very first time

of HIV positive patients, including

seeing a ballet. The required dance

pregnant women and their children.

history books remain on the shelves

Several familiar Penguins joined us

of my library. I had so many wonder-

for the occasion, including Mehran

ful experiences with Mona and she

Saboori ’78 whose weekend visit

taught me not only dance, but so

marked his first time back at Cushing

Parent Relations. His youngest son

much more. I received an education

since his own graduation. Several of

Kyle attends Oakmont Regional

that changed the course of my life. I

Shiva’s former teachers and friends

High School, his oldest son Matt will

had the opportunity to live with stu-

were also in attendance, in tribute to

be graduating from the University

dents from all over the world and had

her, and they enjoyed a mini reunion

of New Hampshire this May, and

the most dedicated, committed, and

following the ceremony.

his wife, Laura, works at the local

astounding teachers.” This winter, she

elementary school in Ashburnham. He

attended a class at Cushing taught

1982

by Mona’s daughter, Rebecca Rice,

Prior to “Thanks Coach” in April 2017,

quality time with his brother-in-law

who carries on her mother’s legacy of

Alexis Xarras Curry, Kimberly

and classmate Bruce Lemieux. He

teaching dance at Cushing.

White Sousa ’75 (former faculty

is enjoying the opportunity to make

’79–82), Sandy Vachon Sullivan ’83,

an impact on the Cushing commu-

Steph Terrien, and Monika Lehman

nity, and asks all alumni to please

Krigbaum met up in Cape Ann.

reengage with Cushing in some way,

1977 David Farnham writes that the Class of 1977 was the Gold Cup Winner at their 40th reunion in June 2017.

1985

loves being back where he can spend

FIRST ROW: Dave Farnham and the Class of 1977 SECOND ROW: Shiva Saboori ’80 and a mini-reunion with her former teachers, friends, and brother Mehran Saboori ’78 THIRD ROW: Shiva Saboori ’80 receiving the 2017 Cushing Academy Leadership Award from Peggy Lee • Alexia Xarras Curry ’82, Kimberly White Sousa ’75, Sandy Vachon Sullivan ’83, Steph Terrien ’82, and Monika Lehman Krigbaum ’82 on Cape Ann

as it’s important to the health of our school to increase alumni engage-

Brett Torrey returned to Cushing

ment. Attend an event, return to cam-

almost three years ago with his

pus for a visit or reunion, or consider

family as the Director of Alumni and

making a donation.

SPRING 2018

39

1987

years. In her free time, Nancy and her

Tracy Saunders writes, “It’s been

husband volunteer as dog handlers for

great getting back in touch with

the Mesilla Valley Search and Rescue

Cushing friends old and new! I love

team, and they enjoy numerous other

the reunions and will always love

outdoor activities with their dogs in

Cushing Academy and mentoring

the beautiful American Southwest.

others! Also, I work on celebrity fundraisers and with nonprofit organiza-

1990

tions like BringHollywodHome.org

Jenn Paxman Bernard now adds CA

Foundation and Kids in the Spotlight

parent to her resume!

(Kitsinc.org). They help underserved kids learn and achieve their dreams of

1998

getting and staying in the enter-

Jill Marks writes, “Hey there, fellow

tainment industry with the proper

Penguins! It has been a long time

resources and tools needed to be

since I last checked in and so much

successful. My Artisfactions.com Ad

has happened! After living on the

Agency and TracySaundersArt.com

West Coast, a six-month stay in

Photos & Gifts websites combine art,

Alaska, and an amazing 1.5 years in

lifestyle, marketing, business, visual

Idaho, I have been back on the East

communications, and events content.

Coast since ’09. I have been working

Overall, I am very happy living in

for some wonderful families as a nan-

California. Come visit!”

ny. I took some time off after my mom

20th

passed in 2014. Since then, I have met We are honored to welcome Nancy

an amazing woman, and we’ve been

Chanover as our guest speaker

together over a year. We live with our

for Cushing’s 143rd graduation on

two cats and our dog in a house full

May 26, 2018. Nancy is a Professor

of fur! I have also been a nanny for a

of Astronomy at New Mexico State

super cute little girl. I cannot believe

University in Las Cruces, and in

that 20 years have gone by since I was

2017 was named the Director of the

at ‘the Cush’! I hope to see some of my

3.5-meter telescope at Apache Point

classmates at the reunion.”

Observatory, which is owned and operated by a consortium of eight

2002

universities. Her research involves the

Congratulations to Derek Evjenth

study of planetary atmospheres, and

and his wife on the birth of their

has supported many NASA missions.

third child!

Her work in the development of new

FIRST ROW: Tracy Saunders ’87 SECOND ROW: Ben Shapiro ’03 • Jenn Bernard ’90 with her son, Max Horgan ’21 THIRD ROW: Andrea Buono ’07 at her wedding with many Cushing friends, including brother Anthony Buono ’07

40

CUSHING TODAY

instrumentation for planetary science

2003

has recently led her into the exciting

Ben Shapiro traveled to PyeongChang

world of astrobiology, and she is cur-

this winter, where he worked for

rently working on the development of

NBC Sports as an audio engineer

in situ instrumentation for the detec-

predominantly for women’s hockey

tion and characterization of biomark-

and the closing ceremonies. As luck

ers on planetary surfaces. Recognized

would have it, his group worked

for her innovative teaching and

closely with the studio team of Paul

dedicated to mentorship of her

Marmaro ’04 and Erika Lawler ’05.

students, she has generously Skyped

This is his second time covering the

with our Astronomy Club over the

Olympics; the first was in Rio in 2016.

15th

Penguin

NATION

2004

2009

2012

Yasuyuki Goto and Kenichiro Kono

Joe Gagne wrote to tell us that he is

Elsie Eastman writes, “After Cushing,

had a mini reunion in Hong Kong in

working as a project administrator

I went to Smith College, with a major

October 2017.

for Haugland Energy and living with

in Geology and a minor in Spanish.

his girlfriend in East Islip, N.Y. At the

At Cushing I was immersed in music,

time of his note, he was training for

and at Smith I continued trying new

When NBC Sports announced its

the Boston Marathon as a charity

music ‘flavors.’ I spent a short time

broadcast teams for the 2018 Winter

runner with Team Journey Forward,

in an a cappella group, took fiddle

Olympics, it wasn’t long before Paul

a spinal cord injury rehab center

lessons, was in the concert choir,

Marmaro ’04 and Erika Lawler ’05

based in Boston. ”Three years ago, I

joined a Celtic music group called the

realized they would be working toge-

was given a second chance at life and

WailiBanshees, took a songwriting

ther in the Stamford, Conn., studios.

made a full recovery after breaking my

class, and collaborated with other

Paul served behind the scenes as an

neck and fracturing the left side of my

students to make videos for my musi-

associate director, while Erika work­

skull. Nine out of every 10 people who

cal YouTube channel. In the summers,

ed on set as a studio analyst for the

suffer my injury are either dead or par-

I waited tables in my hometown and

women’s hockey commentary team.

alyzed from the chest down. Cushing

busked a lot, eventually getting guitar

has always been a major part of my

gigs at different wine bars, coffee

success, and has formed me into the

shops, and resorts. During a year off

Courtney Sheary continues her col-

type person I am today. I owe a lot to

from school, I lived in New Zealand for

legiate hockey coaching career with a

Cushing, and I am very excited to be

a couple months, and then Thailand.

move to Boston College.

back on campus to see my Cushing

When I got back, I decided I would

family very soon.”

take active steps to become more

2004/2005

2006

2007

social and physically active, so I

Andrea Buono wed Philip Cutler.

2010

Several other Cushing alums attended

Mary Cate Farwell is in medical

the best thing I ever could have done,

the wedding.

school at New York Medical College

and within one year I went from never

in Valhalla. She is pictured at right

having rowed before to being in the

Amelia King Randolph writes,

with her mother at her White Coat

best shape of my life and the second

“After Cushing, I went to West

Ceremony.

fastest person on the varsity team,

Virginia University and graduated in

joined the Novice Crew team! It was

rowing in the varsity eight and in the

2011 with a degree in Geology. From

2011

there, I went to graduate school and

Amanda Sarro graduated from the

a bunch of new crew friends, and now

received my master’s in Business

University of New Hampshire and is

I have a job selling software (for the

Administration and Leadership at

currently working toward her mas-

time being), have moved out, self-

the University of Charleston in 2012.

ter’s degree in education from Curry

released an album of original songs

I got married in 2014, and three of my

College.

(Postcards, available on ElsieEastman.

bridesmaids were from Cushing: Boo

Head of the Charles. I graduated with

bandcamp.com), have my own health

Vernon, Mary Hannah O’Brien, and

Robin Yoshida has been serving

insurance, and am loving life (even

Rachel Sommers. Andrea DelBello

in the Peace Corps in Madagascar

with a broken ankle)! I still keep in

was also in attendance. I now work

since February 2016, according to her

touch with my Cushing friends, most

for my family business as a project

mother, Babs Marrone ’70. She is a

notably Jennifer Tonti, who I met on

engineer in the oil and gas industry

community health volunteer, and her

Day 3 at Cushing, and we have been

of West Virginia. I have returned to

main focus is on mother and infant

best friends ever since (almost 10

Cushing for our class’ 5th and 10th

health. After she finishes this spring,

years?!). I hope to go to some more

reunions. It is always great to see the

her plan is to begin another 27-month

alumni events soon, but until then I’m

teachers and the campus. I had a great

tour in Belize.

happy coming back for the musicals!”

FROM TOP: Paul Marmaro ’04 and Erika Lawler ’05 • Mary Cate Farwell ’10 at her graduation • Jennifer Tonti ’12 and Elsie Eastman ’12

time catching up with Boo Vernon and Heather Hill ’90 last year.

SPRING 2018

41

2013

RECEPTION NOTES

5th

Andrew Chrabascz has taken his

Freeport, Me.

basketball talent overseas to play

Stephen Young ’79 hosted a Maine Area Reception in

professionally in Iceland after playing

Freeport in August, which proved to be a “Young” Event.

for the Armenian National Team last

Robert Young ’69, Kimberly White Sousa ’75, and Harvey

summer.

Young ’75 had lots of fond memories to share!

Jocelyn Labombarde married Elliot

FACULTY NOTES

Hunter Young in Memphis on Oct. 14,

At the time of this pub-

on a warm and sunny afternoon in an

lication, the 2018 Boston

historic Victorian garden.

Marathon will have passed. Bill Troy wrote

2015

to us beforehand, “This

George Han had the opportunity

is my 19th year running

to work for the Winter Games

the Boston Marathon for

Organizing Committee in

DFMC—The Dana Farber

PyeongChang. During the Olympics,

Marathon Challenge.

he was assigned to the Kwandong

I began the process to

Hockey Centre where he worked

honor my father, who

closely with the men’s and women’s

passed away from cancer

hockey teams.

in 1977 at the early age of 41. My mother passed

Amanda Wood was back in

away from leukemia in 2013 at the age of 73. I continue to

Ashburnham after an 18-month LDS

think of her every day I run. She was an amazing indi-

mission in Mexico. “Her Spanish

vidual. Both parents were treated at Dana Farber. Eight

is flawless now!” reported Señora

years ago, we began the PINK THE RINK Event to involve

Reinoso.

our Cushing community with this cause. Along with help raising funds for DFMC and cancer research, it has allowed

2016

us as educators to raise the awareness of students. Our

Alejandro Estrelles Hernanz

Athletic Trainer, April Winter, has done an outstanding

celebrated his Big 10 Tournament win

job of helping organize the event. She has been incred-

for Wisconsin, beating 15–0–5 and #2

ibly organized and giving of her time, effort, and energy.

nationally ranked Indiana.

Together, we have made this a Cushing tradition. Two Cushing faculty members are running for DFMC with me

2017

this year: Brad Caswell (second year) and Aaron Santos

Blossom Truel (Norwich University)

’06 (first year). Faculty member Emily Roller has also run

and Emma Kowalka (New England

for DFMC in years past. We will continue to honor all

College) met up on the ice this winter,

members of the Cushing community that we have lost to

when their respective teams faced

cancer. This year I will run for my college teammate, John

off in a collegiate game. Blossom and

Galasso, whom we lost in September 2017 after a seven-

her team went on to win the 2018

year battle with prostate cancer. My total fundraising for

NCAA Division III Women’s Hockey

the past 18 years is $90,647. My goal for 2018 is to raise

Championship, and she was invited

$10,000 and break the $100,000 mark. Since September

by the Red Sox to throw the first pitch

1, 2017, I have run 1,432 training miles for an average of 60

at Fenway in early April.

miles per week. This year I turn 55. The qualifying time FROM TOP: Andrew Chrabascz ’13 • Jocelyn Labombarde ’13 • George Han ’15 • Alejandro Estrelles ’16 • Blossom Truel ’17 and Emma Kowalka ’17

42

CUSHING TODAY

set by the BAA for my age group is three hours and 40 minutes, which I plan to meet but it will be a challenge. I aim to run my 20th Boston Marathon in 2019 and I need to stay healthy in order to do so.”

Penguin

NATION

Parents Council Parent involvement is a crucial and integral component of the successful program at Cushing Academy. All Cushing parents are automatically members of Parents for Cushing, whose primary purpose is to promote a sense of community among parents, students, faculty, and administrators. In addition, Parents for Cushing helps with fundraising efforts, assists with parent-organized events and helps inform parents about programming at Cushing Academy. Parents for Cushing is led by a small group of parent volunteers, the Cushing Academy Parents Council. The goal of the Cushing Academy Parents Council is to better engage and inform our parent community. The Parents Council will provide insight and reflection on key strategic initiatives of the school as well as emerging topics of interest for families and their students. Beyond gatherings to learn about Cushing and education, the Parents Council is building a robust parent community and important bridge between parents and the Cushing community, as well as an increased opportunity to connect with fellow parents, spend more time on campus, and better understand the Cushing experience.

Alumni Council News Cushing Academy’s Alumni Council provides guidance

Alumni Council Members Alumni Council Members •

• Chair: Thomas Chair: Thomas Jaffa ’70, Jaffa Seattle, ’70, WA Seattle, WA

•

• Vice Vice Chair: Valerie ’97,Bono ’97, Chair:Bono Valerie

and support to the Academy’s leadership on issues of importance to the school’s alumni. Meetings take

Burlington, MA Burlington, MA •

place every six weeks. The Council recently provided input as the school engaged in its strategic planning

Fitchburg, MAMA •

process and began the search for its 13th Head of School. Two Council members, Jim Kraskouskas ’65 and Brian

• Cullen Roger Brooks ’69, Concannon ’89, Cape

North Brookfield, Elizabeth,MA ME •

Teixeira ’99, served on the search committee. During Reunion 2017, we thanked outgoing Council

• Roger Secretary: DavidBrooks Nickless ’70, ’69, North Brookfield,

Cullen •Concannon ’89, Hingham, Cape John Frey ’06, MA • Robin Elizabeth, ME Lockwood Hall ’78, North

•

John FreyStonington, ’06, Hingham, CT MA

•

• Michael Ho Robin Lockwood Hall’06, ’78,Hong NorthKong

Chair Roger Brooks ’69 for his efforts on behalf of the

• Chelsea Stonington, CT Cummings Koski ’03,

Academy’s alumni. Taking over the leadership reins

•

Michael Washington, Ho ’06, Hong DC Kong

for the Council is Tom Jaffa ’70. He’ll be joined by new

•

• Cummings Chelsea Koski’65, ’03, Jim Kraskouskas

Vice Chair Val Bono ’97, who in addition to her work on

Washington, DC MA Gardner,

the Council is also the head coach of Cushing’s Varsity

•

• Tony Mallozzi Jim Kraskouskas ’65, Gardner, MA ’01, Shrewsbury, MA

Girls’ Ice Hockey team.

•

• Carolyn Tony Mallozzi ’01,Marr Shrewsbury, MA ’58,

•

Carolyn Marr ’58, Franklin, MA Franklin, MA

If you have questions about the Alumni Council, or

•

• Haley Haley Moore ’04, Woburn, Moore ’04, MA

would like to add a topic to the Council’s agenda,

•

Wayne Scroggs ’75,MA West Point, GA Woburn,

•

• Wayne Matt Siegel ’82, Vestal, ScroggsNY ’75, West Point, GA

alumniprograms@cushing.org or visit the Alumni

•

• Matt Siegel Brian Teixeira ’99, Gloucester, MA ’82, Vestal, NY

Council page of the Cushing website to read more.

•

• Brian Teixeira Elliott Ventura ’78, Southlake, TX ’99, Gloucester, MA

please contact the Alumni Office at 978-827-7400 or

•

Elliott Ventura ’78, Southlake, TX

SPRING 2018

43

Remembering M. Willard Lampe II, Former Headmaster On Jan. 18, 2018, the Cushing community was deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of M. Willard “Wink” Lampe II, Cushing’s tenth headmaster. In 2000, Mr. Lampe joined the Cushing community as headmaster from Kent School (Kent, Conn.), following the retirement of Dr. Joseph Curry. A thoughtful scholar, he received his B.A. in History and Greek from Muskingum College (New Concord, Ohio) and earned his M.A. in Greek from the University of Vermont. His leadership over six academic years encompassed many highlights, including a deep commitment to teaching, a passion for music and the arts, and the construction of a much-needed academic facility, the Joseph R. Curry Academic Center. Mark Aimone, who served as Director of Admission and Financial Aid during Mr. Lampe’s tenure, wrote, “I will always remember the warmth and kindness that Wink showed to everyone. He would often wander down the hall from his office to the Admission Office to greet a prospective family and make them feel welcome. Sometimes he would take a minute to sit on the couch in my office and share stories from his time in admissions or boarding school life in general. He truly loved boarding school life. Wink was the consummate boarding-school gentleman. I was once told early in my career in independent school that being called a ‘school man’ was the highest praise you could give in this business. Wink was certainly a ‘school man’! And one of the kindest and gentlest at that.” Wink and his wife, Jody, a beloved Academic Support teacher, were gracious hosts at Jewett House to the entire Cushing community, and his kindness, good humor, and strong faith are remembered fondly. They were a much-admired presence beyond campus as well, where they contributed greatly to the Town of Ashburnham and the Ashburnham Community Church through their wide involvement. Drawn back to beautiful Litchfield County, Conn., the Lampes joined the faculty at South Kent School (South Kent, Conn.) in 2006, where he served as Director of Development, Dean of Faculty, Foreign Language Department Coordinator, and Teacher of English and Latin. The Lampes embraced Cushing, as their son Joshua and his wife, Sarah Molly Lampe, were members of the faculty and administration, and their son Benjamin and his wife, Jamie, worked in the Summer Session. He is also survived by their son Joseph and daughter-in-law Sophia, and many grandchildren. It was a special tradition through the years for Wink and Jody, upon the birth of each grandchild, to commission a sterling silver penguin baby spoon crafted by dear friend and Director of Visual Arts Bob Johnson.

44

CUSHING TODAY

Penguin

NATION

In Memoriam This list includes those people whose passing we have learned of from January 1, 2017, to April 19, 2018.

Remembering Trustee Emeritus Vernon R. “Rod” Tate ’57

1934

1947

1957

We note with great sadness the

Dorothy Cowles

Philip C. Mann, Sr.

William W. Martin

James B. Shatswell II

Vernon R. Tate

passing of Trustee Emeritus Vernon

1935

1948

1960

Dorothea Edgerton

Norman O. Barres

William E. Mahoney III

Lehnow

Nordstrom

1936 Barbara Quimby Watson Marian Harlow Wheeler

1937 Marjorie Clapp True

1938 John F. Carr

1939 Irja Teittinen Tamminen

1940 Robert E. Nelson

Pamela Phillips Boynton Albert T. Calello, Jr. Nola Ray Delaney

Michael A. Gavitt

1950 Joan Thomas Gilchrist Catherine Schiller Putnam Nancy MacLean Wallace

pact that his year at Cushing had throughout his life. He led with

June Boston Myers

Kenneth S. Green, Jr.

Donald F. Taylor

A graduate of the Class of 1957, Rod spoke movingly about the im-

Kenneth S. Fulton

1963

1949

his home in Charleston, S.C.

1961

Thomas J. Ferguson Joseph N. Lison

R. “Rod” Tate on Jan. 28, 2018, at

1965 John W. Reid

wisdom following his election to the Board of Trustees in 2000, and he was proud to be elected a Trustee Emeritus in 2016. His generous commitment to Cushing was expressed throughout the many facets of his dedicated

1978

leadership. All who had the pleasure of meeting Rod know that

Roland J. Coutu

his love for Cushing was deep, as was his joy in being with fellow

1994

Penguins, whom he graciously hosted through the years at his

Douglas R. Drewry

2001 Laura Shea

1951

Derek L. Skrine

Robert H. Blanchard

homes in Annapolis. Following Cushing, he received a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Maryland. He later received his MBA at George Washington University with a focus on International Marketing.

Robert B. Entwistle

Nancy Baybutt Ruder

Former Faculty and Staff

Anthony L. Petrides

Mildred Patrick Sacks

Victoria Blake

Natalie Chalfin Phillips

Howard L. Bonis, Jr.

matched by his commitment and dedication to many institu-

1941

1942

Rod began his career working at Xerox Corporation. He later founded Nationwide Fulfillment Systems, serving Fortune 500 companies. His passion and success as an entrepreneur was

1952

Peter L. Dudensing

Olive Dunbar Keene

Bruce S. Cuddihy

Camille P. Gallant

tions, including Cushing. Rod also served the United States with

Barbara Haug Ober

Margaret Baker Kent

James B. Kaehlert

James R. Western

Robert D. Klarsch

great distinction, retiring from the U.S. Air Force as a Brigadier

Mary Ann Hendrickson

1943 Madeline Winch

Smith Elaine Bland Whiting

M. Willard Lampe II Christine Lorion

General. Upon retirement from the Air Force, Brigadier General Tate received the Distinguished Service Medal. The Cushing community’s deepest sympathies are with Rod’s

1953

wife, Lynn; his children, Skip, Will, Maggie, and Elizabeth,

1944

John M. Cushing

from his 43-year marriage with the late Missy Tate; and his ten

Robert D. Fletcher

John F. Topham, Jr.

grandchildren. As friend and fellow Trustee Liz Akers (P’10, ’13,

1945

1954

’17) wrote, “It was my privilege to serve on the Board with Rod for

Lucille Agard Bugel

Marcia Reynolds

Robbins

Judith O’Neill Feldman

Abbott

a few years. Rod was a gentleman through and through, and his love for Cushing was abundant. He never failed to bring thoughtful insight as well as kind and good humor to every discussion. I

Bessie Higgins Hanna

1955

Jeanne Murray West

Ingrid Ahola Berger

1946

Charles B. Huntington

the impact of his life will long reverberate, probably in places

Nathan L. Beardsley

Walter N. Londergan, Jr.

and among people she will never even know. He will be missed,

Victoria Grebenstein

Charles F. Russell, Jr.

and he will be remembered.”

George

Herbert E. Solomon

Norman R. Glick

1956

Roy L. Gove

Herman C. Perry, Jr.

am heartbroken. May Lynn take some comfort in knowing that

Angelos H.V. Xarras SPRING 2018

45

1. Hayley Moore ’04, Trustee Stacey Silverman ’04, Chris Tracy ’04

3. Ray Bourque P’04 and ’09, George Sullivan P’11, Bobby Orr

2. 2017 tournament attendees

4. Bobby Orr, Conor Sheary ’10, Ray Bourque P’04 and ’09, Mike Sullivan

1

2

5. Mark Warsofsky P’07 and ’09, Bill Troy 6. Brett Torrey ’85 with 2017 tournament winners Tom Poti ’96, Matt Brown ’97, Keith Emery ’97, and Matt Mattau

3

4

5

6TH ANNUAL CUSHING ACADEMY

GOLF TOURNAMENT Monday, June 25, 2018 The Ridge Club, Sandwich, Mass. The Cushing Academy Golf Tournament brings together our alumni, parents, and friends for an incredible celebration in support of Cushing. It is our largest fundraising event and in 2017, through the generosity of our sponsors, donors, and participants, raised nearly $100,000 to benefit the Annual Fund and our athletics programs. ABOVE: Sam D’Arrigo ’10

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor (or know of a business that might), or would like to join us on the links, please contact the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations at 978-827-7400 or events@cushing.org.

cushing.org/golf

46

CUSHING TODAY

6

1. Passing the torch: New Alumni Council Chair Tom Jaffa ’70 and outgoing Chair Roger Brooks ’69 2. Alumni pick-up game at the Watkins Field House

1

2

3. The opening night reception at Reunion is always a hit.

5. Former faculty member Joyce Ferris speaks at a moving tribute to Mary Fern.

4. Janine Barber ’65 is flanked by Asta and Jim Kraskouskas ’65 at the Gold Key Breakfast.

6. A Ferris wheel donated by E.J. ’94 and Norma Silsby Dean ’94 lights up Ashburnham at night.

3

4

7. Visiting Alumni Artists Abby Hastings ’06 and Trish Hecht ’04 join Visual Arts Chair Bob Johnson at the art show and reception.

5

6

7

CUSHING REUNION Reunion 2017 was a weekend full of rediscovered friendships, sparkling summer days, and celebratory nights. Highlights included a moving tribute to beloved Silver Penguin Mary Fern, an elegant Gold Key breakfast, Berkley’s Backyard BBQ, roaring fires, and a Grand Celebration that spilled out onto Drew Common, where a Ferris wheel lit up the night sky. We hope you will join us for Reunion 2019! Stay tuned ABOVE: Meeting up with good friends is one of the best parts of Reunion!

for details.

cushing.org/reunion

SPRING 2018

47

Just for Fun Pen to Paper Share a picture of your completed puzzle on

#PenToPaper

Ashburnham

L E P A H C L L E W O C G W V

Clock Tower

J N Q F M W N L K L C N Y I T

Cowell Chapel Downtown

E A N U L A A O L Y I F R S E

Drew Common

W U Z H I N H A I D W T D C E

Jewett House

E D H Z Y M H N L N U V L E R

Main Building Mountain Day

T B O I I Y B I R T U O K L T

Penguin

T O L W D P U Y E U C E P P S

Purple

H M H U N B E E F K B E R R L

Quimby Field

O G T S N T T G T I N H Z U O

Reunion School Street

U S B I L N O O A G E X S P O

Study Hall

S I A N U U W W U L W L M A H

Village Pizza

E M E M W E X I N F L X D B C

Virtute et Numine

I Z I U R F N S R I W I A A S U N O M M O C W E R D K V D W E M O U N T A I N D A Y U V R

48

CUSHING TODAY

YOUR GIFT

MATTERS

CUSHING ACADEMY MISSION STATEMENT:

Cushing Academy exists for students and develops curious, creative, and confident learners and leaders.

From the classrooms and dorms to the fields, studios, and stage, the Cushing Academy Annual Fund provides vital support for every aspect of a Cushing education. The generosity of our alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends through the Annual Fund is essential to sustaining and strengthening our programs, building on more than 150 years of excellence. As at other schools, the Annual Fund fills the gap between tuition and the full cost of educating each student. A gift to the Annual Fund is an investment in Cushing’s present and future and an expression of ongoing commitment to our mission. Please join fellow Penguins in making a gift this fiscal year (July 1, 2017–June 30, 2018).

To make your gift: ONLINE:

cushing.org/give BY PHONE:

978-827-7400 BY MAIL:

Cushing Academy, 39 School Street, Ashburnham, MA 01430 (checks payable to Cushing Academy Annual Fund)

Each gift makes a real difference and is deeply appreciated. Thank you for your support!

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Hartford, CT Permit #1382

39 School Street Ashburnham, MA 01430

Stay Connected to Cushing! cushing.org communications@cushing.org 978-827-7000 facebook.com/CushingAcademyFans

facebook.com/groups/CushingAcademyParents facebook.com/groups/CAPenguinNation @CushingAcademy Cushing Academy Alumni Network and Cushing Academy Parent Network @cushingacademy

No matter how you like to stay in touch, Cushing has you covered.