YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
COVID-19 AND DISTANCE LEARNING • LESLEY VISSER ’68 BREAKS DOWN BARRIERS • STITCHES & STEAM
THEN // NOW
DERBY ACADEMY is a co-educational, Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8
school that nurtures the development of the child by providing opportunities for the maximum intellectual, emotional, and physical growth of each student. That mission is as important now as it was three centuries ago.
CONTENTS
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// IN THIS ISSUE
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CAMPUS NEWS
Campus is buzzing with performances, guest speakers, and community events.
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STITCHES AND STEAM Students combine sewing and STEAM in fun and creative ways.
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FIRST AND GOAL Hall of fame broadcaster Lesley Visser ’68 visits campus to discuss her accomplished career in sports journalism.
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20 REMOTE TEACHING & LEARNING The Derby community shifts to online learning in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
26 LAST CHAPEL & DERBY DAY
Derby reimagines its end-of-year celebrations and graduation.
34 DEVELOPMENT
Derby recognizes its long-standing traditions of generosity and community.
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36 CLASS NOTES
Our alumni and extended community share updates and celebrations from throughout the year.
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DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS Connor Gleason COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE Colleen D’Alessandro PRINTER Fowler Printing & Graphics
Please send letters to the editor, class notes, obituaries, and changes of address to: DERBY ACADEMY 56 Burditt Avenue Hingham, MA 02043 781-749-0746 (ext. 210) alums@derbyacademy.org Cover: Community Mosaic
FOLLOW DERBY ON SOCIAL /derbyacademy @derbyacademy @derby.academy /derbyacademyorg
IN DERBY’S 200+ YEARS of educating children, it is safe to say that the 2019–2020 academic year was among the most challenging. As a community of engaged students, parents, alumni, parents of alumni, faculty, and friends, we rose together to face the challenges and uncertainties of this year. As a result, our community came out stronger.
Together, we supported each other in our transition to remote teaching and learning. The launch of our distance learning program was a true testament to the strength and dedication of our community members. Our teachers quickly adapted to accommodate the needs of learning online, and our students and parents responded with remarkable support and patience. Despite the restrictions in place to keep us safe, we still found ways to stay connected. We helped each other to become better teachers, parents, and faculty alike, and we could not have done it alone. Together, we found ways to celebrate one another during our important year-end traditions. This year’s Last Chapel and Derby Day looked different, but nevertheless, they still captured the spirit of our community. Witnessing the
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cheers from students and faculty and seeing the smiles of our newest alumni and their families were important reminders of what makes our school so special. Derby Academy is more than a school—we are a community of caring people who are united in instilling in our children the true meaning of “Improve Both Mind and Heart.” And together, we’ll continue Derby’s mission and set the course for future growth and success. This year our Board has spent time reflecting on the history of our school; Sarah Derby’s enduring vision continues to inform our path forward. While Derby has weathered pandemics and wars and economic cycles in the past, the spirit and support of our amazing community has always enabled the school to progress and achieve its goals. As always and certainly now, we are grateful for your support, your generosity, and your unwavering commitment to Derby. Thank you for bringing out the best in us all.
Lori Cashman P’19,’19,’22,’22,’23
President, Derby Academy Board of Trustees
BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2019–2020
PRESIDENT Lori W. Cashman P’19,’19,’22,’22,’23
VICE PRESIDENT Jeff Alexander P‘24
TREASURER Michelle M. Buckley ’94, P’26
SECRETARY Christie O’Connor P’16,’18,’21
TRUSTEES Curtis Cetrulo, MD. ‘85 P‘25 John Drew P’20,’21,’25,’25 Robert R. Fawcett, Jr. P’18,’19,’21 Caroline Curtis Hayes ’99 Andrea Carr Hedrick ‘79 Jake Heller P‘25,‘26 Demi Isenstadt P‘18,’21,’26 Pamela B. Marshman P’15,’20 Kristen Maxwell P’17,’18,’20 Metri R. Metri P’16,’17,’18,’21 Jennifer Lowe Newell ’90 Suzanne Norris P’22,’25,’28 Kristan Pavona (ex-officio; PA Rep) P’20,’22 Ajay Sadhwani, P‘13,’16,’16,’19,’23 Jay K. Sadlon P’92,’96 Rebecca Synnestvedt (ex-officio; PA Rep) P‘19,’19,’20
TRUSTEES EMERITI Jane Cheever Carr ’50, P’75,’77,’79,’82, GP’03,’05 Harry W. Healey, Jr. P’72,’73,’74,’75,’77,’79,’86 Patricia B. Leggat P’85 Elizabeth M. Loring P’97,’99,’01 Bruce H. Minevitz P’00,’04
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DERBY WELCOMES STUDENTS AT FIRST CHAPEL NEW AND RETURNING students
were welcomed to campus with smiles and hugs, as well as a question and a challenge: What makes you comfortable and confident? As classes resumed last fall, students and faculty alike were tasked with exploring the theme of balancing comfort and confidence to create an engaging and supportive environment where the community can grow—academically and socially. With comfort, strong friendships and relationships emerge; with confidence, honest thoughts, ideas, and interests are known and discovered. As classes began, Derby embraced the year with the conviction to grow as people, to grow as learners, and to grow as a community.
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NEW SAILING CLUB LAUNCHES
CONTINUING THE SCHOOL’S partnership with the Hingham Maritime Center, students advanced their sailing skills while cruising the harbor in Derby’s new club last fall.
Club members learned the technical aspects of operating a sailboat, which included instruction in navigation and steering techniques, and proper handling of boat equipment. Led by sailing professionals, the club also reviewed water safety and responsible behavior on the docks.
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FACULTY TRAVEL GRANTS
FACULTY MEMBERS Anne Benjamin and Ashley Fish ’03 returned
from traveling abroad last summer, thanks to generous faculty travel grants. Anne, an Upper School French teacher, visited Senegal, a French-speaking country in West Africa through an organization called Projects Abroad. Anne lived with a family in the town of St. Louis and learned about the home life, the customs, and the culture of the country. She also provided medical care and taught French, English, and math to young children at a center in the poorest part of St. Louis. Ashley, an Upper School English teacher, spent two weeks traveling the west coast of Ireland and numerous areas in Scotland, exploring the history, culture, and spirit of both countries. She studied the landscape, the educational systems, as well as the mythology and folklore that has influenced centuries of literature and music. Both faculty members brought back a wealth of knowledge and meaningful experiences to share with students and colleagues.
FESTIVE FUN
FAMILIES ENJOYED a variety of
fun activities that included thrilling carnival rides and games, arts and crafts, and even a petting zoo at Derby’s annual Fall Fair in early October.
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STITCHES
STEAM
SEWING AND EMBROIDERY can be traced back to the early beginnings of Derby;
included in the School’s deed was a mandate that needlework be taught to all female students. Instructed by the Mistress, students of the late-1700’s learned needlework to produce decorative embroideries, or even to make or repair their own clothing. Some two-hundred years later, classes are integrating the traditional skill of sewing with STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math), and with every stitch, weaving Sarah Derby’s legacy into the curriculum of today.
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Embroidery is truly an ancient art form going as far back as clothing does. —ASHLEY CAULFIELD // Sewing Instructor
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Sewing instructor Ashley Caulfield, who joined the Derby faculty last fall, has teamed up with STEAM teacher Siyi Ye to incorporate tech into Grade 6 students’ sewing designs. Students have been creating hand-embroidered projects that use a special conductive thread to illuminate their designs with LED lights and bring their projects to life. “Embroidery is truly an ancient art form going as far back as clothing does,” said Caulfield. “Our goal with this class project is to show students how sewing is still relevant and how elevated it has become with the use of technology.” The project goes beyond modernizing an antiquated skill, however. Precise embroidery requires advanced hand-eye coordination, detailed planning, and perhaps above all, perseverance—skills Sarah Derby knew would stand the test of time. YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
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DANCING DIGNITARIES MUSICIANS and dancers from
VISITING VOICES
Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos-Mexico (Spanish for “Our Little Brothers and Sisters”) shared dances and songs for students last fall. The group works to improve the lives of vulnerable children throughout Latin America and the Caribbean by supporting their homes, health services, and educational programs. NPH-Mexico has a proud culture, and the dance and music troupe often travels abroad to perform and support their families.
THE RIGHT QUESTIONS
PARALYMPIC ATHLETE Chris
Waddell visited campus to share his story of determination and resilience. As the most decorated male mono skier in history with 12 Paralympic medals, Waddell asked students to think of the questions we ask ourselves when things go wrong. He asked students to examine the limitations we put on ourselves, and define the goals we want to pursue and the people we want to become. “It’s not what happens to you,” Waddell said. “It’s what you do with what happens to you.” 8
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GIFTS OF GRATITUDE
OUR PALS paired up to write and decorate “thank you” cards for veterans in
advance of Veterans Day this November. The completed letters were presented to Senior Chief Petty Officer Keith Jermyn of the United States Navy, who distributed them to local veterans and active members of the U. S. Armed Forces.
MOTOWN MELODIES MEMBERS of the a cappella
group The Dissipated Eight from Middlebury College performed a number of Motown and classic rock hits for students.
IN A GALAXY FAR, FAR AWAY...
KINDERGARTENERS explored the constellations, planets, and stars of our
galaxy with the Boston Museum of Science’s Traveling Starlab presentation.
“WHY’D IT HAVE TO BE SNAKES?” THE BOSTON MUSEUM OF SCIENCE’S Traveling Animal Habitats exhibit visited the Primary School, introducing students to a frog, a rabbit, and even an African Ball Python!
THE ART OF STORYTELLING LAST FALL, children’s book author and illustrator Ruth Chan met with students in the Lower School to discuss the art of storytelling and what it takes to be an author—creativity, inspiration, and a love of reading. Students asked questions, read aloud, and even shared their own drawings and illustrations. YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
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1& GOAL ST
HALL OF FAME broadcaster, sportswriter, and Derby alumna Lesley Visser ’68 has been steadily breaking down barriers as a pioneer in the male-dominated sports world.
“I’ve had the privilege of covering the Home Run Derby, the Kentucky Derby, and roller derby,” said Visser as she spoke to guests in Larson Hall last fall. “But my life was really shaped by being at this Derby. My family got to be here for what was really a central part of my own life.”
WITH A CAREER that spans over four decades, Visser holds a growing list of superlatives and “firsts,” including the first female NFL analyst on television, and the only sportscaster who has covered network broadcasts of the Final Four, the NBA Finals, the World Series, the Triple Crown, Monday Night Football, the Olympics, the Super Bowl, the World Figure Skating Championships, and the U.S. Open.
Visser remembered a defining moment when she turned to her mother and declared she wanted to become a sportswriter. “I had this dream that I wanted to cover sports, but I didn’t know if I could give voice to it,” Visser recalled. In an exclusively male profession, it was a goal that seemed unattainable for the then-ten-year-old Derby student. But her mother, who taught at Derby, simply replied, “That’s great, sometimes you have to cross when it says, ‘don’t walk.’”
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Her mother’s guidance gave her permission, Visser realized, to begin a journey that went against the notion that women were meant to watch from the sidelines. Visser vaulted into sports broadcasting, covering the most highly regarded contests around the world and interviewing some of the most accomplished coaches and athletes.
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Whatever your dream is, don’t be afraid to want to do anything... Derby is going to give you all the tools that you need.
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In 2006, marking her 34th year covering the NFL as both a television reporter and print journalist, Visser received the Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award, and became the first woman to be recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In 2015, Visser was voted the number one female sportscaster of all time by the American Sportscasters Association. She was the third woman to have the honor bestowed since the association began presenting the award in 1962. This spring, Visser added yet another “first” to her accomplishments—she became the first woman to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Sports Emmy Awards.
Alumni and friends joined Lesley Visser ’68 following her presentation. Pictured (l–r): Deb Dougherty ’64, Debbie Zildjian ’64, P’95,’97, Tom Bright ’67, P’91,’95, Marion Brewer ’67, Chris Visser ’67, Lesley Visser ’68, Ron Hobson, Alice Cook P’06, Melissa Browne ’71 “My journey started here at Derby,” Visser said to students. “I was your age and I had a dream, but my dream did not exist. Whatever your dream is, don’t be afraid to want to do anything. I’m the example that you can do it. Derby is going to give you all the tools that you need.”
Pictured Right: Lesley Visser’s 2017 book, Sometimes You Have to Cross When it Says Don’t Walk: A Memoir of Breaking Barriers.
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MODERN SHAKESPEARE UPPER SCHOOL DRAMA students put a twist on Shakespeare’s Much Ado
About Nothing, performing the classic story with modern music and dance.
GRANDFRIENDS DAY
BEFORE THE THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY, Grandparents and Grandfriends visited campus for a day filled with fun. Guests participated in lessons, explored classrooms, and enjoyed musical performances that helped celebrate the special role grandparents, family, and friends play in our students’ lives.
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LOCAL STUDIES, GLOBAL IMPACT DERBY’S ANNUAL WINTER TERM had Middle and Upper School students
thinking globally and acting locally to tackle some of the biggest social and environmental challenges facing our world today. During the two-week term this December, students focused on issues like sustainability, access and consumption of resources, how student activism is changing the dialogue around climate change, and the importance of adopting healthier lifestyles. Students took their research into the field to meet with experts and creatively investigate, engage, and apply hands-on, solution-oriented designs to resolve challenges on both a global and local level.
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CELEBRATING THE SEASON
DERBY CELEBRATED the season with its annual holiday performances the
week before Winter Break. With students, faculty, and staff across divisions participating in the festive songs, dances, skits, and choruses, spirits were lifted and the magic of the season was celebrated.
WINTER FESTIVAL PRIMARY AND LOWER School
students treated guests to a production of winter classics during the Winter Festival holiday concert in Larson Hall. Classes performed a variety of joyful stories and songs like “Jingle Bells,” “I Have a Little Dreidel,” and “Winter Wonderland.”
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LET THERE BE LIGHT THE UPPER SCHOOL students filled Larson Hall with holiday cheer during Let There be Light: A Celebration, a program about children, hope, and light.
This year’s performance shared the spirituality of our different traditions and celebrated our commonalities. Musical numbers like “Let Love Light the Way,” “Hanukkah Hayom!” and “Rockin’ Holidays” accompanied dances and readings from cultures and religions from around the world, uniting the entire school community in holiday spirit. New additions like “The Derby Snow Dance” shared the hope and excitement of a snow day, while the Dragon Dance continued to delight audience members.
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SERVICE BY THE NUMBERS
LEADING INTO the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend, Derby
participated in the second annual all-school Day of Service event. Students packaged 10,000 meals for Rise Against Hunger, provided clothing for 254 children through donations to Cradles to Crayons, collected school supplies for Schools on Wheels, assembled 100 meals for Father Bill’s Place, and decorated bags with creative designs for Meals on Wheels. Upper School students hosted an Oxfam Hunger Banquet, where diners are randomly assigned a meal reflecting the distribution of global resources. Ten percent received a quality upper-class income meal at a set table, forty percent received minimal portions at a chair, while fifty percent received a cup of rice and sat on the floor. Students ate in the same room and discussed the inequality that was represented in relation to the intentions of the Day of Service.
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APPALACHIA ASSISTANCE THIS FALL, Foley Citizenship
Prize recipient Kevin Farmer ’20 introduced his initiative of supporting the developing communities of the Appalachian Mountain region. Through informative presentations and fundraising activities, Farmer educated the student body about the region and created opportunities for all Derby constituencies to support the cause throughout the year.
HOOPS FOR HEART TEAMS ACROSS THE MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOLS went head-to-head
in an exciting double-elimination tournament during the annual Hoops for Heart basketball tournament. With February being American Heart Month, participants helped bring awareness of heart disease and raised $800 for the American Heart Association.
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“I’M GONNA LIVE FOREVER...”
GRADE 7 AND 8 students presented the vision and music of Fame in
March. Based on the 1980 American film, the story chronicles the lives and hardships of students attending a performing arts school in NYC in the ’80s. Derby’s production featured Grade 7 and 8 students contributing in meaningful and memorable ways; either by bringing a character to life on stage, transforming the theatre into a visceral New York City experience with elaborate set design, or performing some of the most iconic ’80s music on stage alongside actors.
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DERBY WELCOMES TOM REID
New Interim Head of School
THIS MARCH, Derby announced the appointment of Thomas
J. Reid as Interim Head of School for Derby Academy. Tom Reid brings to Derby an exceptionally strong and successful career as a leader and teacher. Most recently, he served as Interim Head of School at The Benjamin School in North Palm Beach, FL. In addition to his position at The Benjamin School, he has served as interim head of four other independent schools—Palmer Trinity School (FL), Upland Country Day School (PA), Charleston Day School (SC), and White Mountain School (NH).
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I have a great appreciation for Derby’s extraordinary history, and eagerly embrace the responsibilities and opportunities that come with leading Derby Academy.
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Upon learning of his appointment, Tom commented, “Since I first learned of the interim position at Derby, I hoped I would be writing this statement: I am honored and excited to have been selected to be the Interim Head of Derby Academy. I have a great appreciation for Derby’s extraordinary history, and eagerly embrace the responsibilities and opportunities that come with leading Derby Academy.”
Tom recently arrived in Hingham with his wife, Ann, an accomplished independent school educator in her own right. She began her career as a teacher and spent many years working in development and admissions at the elementary, collegiate, and secondary school levels. Tom and Ann have two children, Kelly and John. Kelly is the 9th and 10th Grade Program Director at Chapel Hill-Chauncy Hall School in Waltham, MA, and John is the Middle School Athletic Director and a history teacher at Thayer Academy in Braintree, MA. Prior to his interim work, Tom served as Headmaster of St. Paul’s School in Lutherville, Maryland for eleven years, and Headmaster of Buckley Country Day School in Roslyn, New York for fourteen years. Tom brings a wealth of independent school experience, along with great wisdom in shepherding schools through leadership transitions. Welcome to the Derby Academy community, Tom and Ann!
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REMOTE TEACHING & LEARNING
LEARNING IN THE AGE OF A PANDEMIC WHEN THE DERBY COMMUNITY returned to campus this winter, no one expected we’d be dealing with a pandemic, let alone parting ways in March for the remainder of the academic year. What began as a distant illness across the world eventually extended into nearly every aspect of our daily routine, and in just a matter of months, COVID-19 claimed more American lives than the Vietnam War. FOLLOWING Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker’s orders to suspend the
remainder of the school year in an effort to help slow the spread of COVID-19, Derby closed its campus, and rightfully so. On March 31, the secretary-general of the United Nations called the pandemic “the most challenging crisis we have faced since the Second World War,” and by the end of May, the country would surpass the grim milestone of 100,000 American deaths. How then, would Derby remain a place of comfort, learning, and personal growth for children?
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The School’s response to distance learning was met with a tenacity and passion that is unique to Derby. Division heads, in collaboration with the Department of Teaching and Learning, and Derby’s dedicated faculty, worked extremely hard during the March break to create a remote learning program that kept connections at the forefront: the connections students make with one another, with their teachers, and with the Derby community. “The ultimate reason we were able to create a successful distance learning program is the strength of the relationships we build with students and families,” said Primary and Lower
School Curriculum Specialist, Mary Beth Murphy, who helped implement the program for the younger students. “The thread of those close connections wove right through the computers and iPads to keep the learning moving forward.” The shift to distance learning happened in overlapping phases: training, launch, differentiation, family partnerships, and revision. Just like in the classroom, there was no “one-size-fits-all” approach to distance learning, and the individualization and enrichment found in-person and on-campus would complement our online community. As our school moved into the cloud, online classrooms and learning platforms allowed the curricula to continue, while the social-emotional health of our students was prioritized by focusing on daily connections and community-building opportunities. It felt different and strange, but students continued their relationships with faculty and peers, friends still “saw” one another, and mentorships progressed.
meaningful one-on-one meetings with students and their teachers helped us apply our differentiation skills as educators, so each student received what they needed, when they needed it.” Implementation of best practices, accessibility considerations, and formalized feedback about Derby’s approach led to a constant evolution of the program. For our older students, these shifts meant providing more live instruction and open office hours for support; for our younger students, it meant more flexibility for families to determine their own child’s engagement with online learning. (Continued...)
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The ultimate reason we were able to create a successful distance learning program is the strength of the relationships we build with students and families. —MARY BETH MURPHY Primary and Lower School Curriculum Specialist
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“Both the strong advisory connections in the Upper School and the one-onone meetings in the Middle School allowed us to focus on what makes the Derby experience so special—making sure that students feel known, heard, and supported,” said Director of Teaching and Learning Mike Bowler, who implemented the distance learning program in the Middle and Upper Schools. “Being able to guarantee Pictured Right Above: Ms. Brooks and members of the US Student Council gather for a Zoom session. Pictured Right Below: Primary School student Kate Norris ’28 cuddles with her dog “Chip Chuck Norris” while learning from home. YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
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Pictured Below: School Counselor Julie Browne conducts a read aloud for students as part of her educational resources available online at the Counselor’s Corner page on the Derby website.
Under stay-at-home orders, families balanced screen time, multiple children in different grade levels, and careers, all while caring for one another. Distance learning with younger students meant that families were now co-teaching partners. A virtual classroom would require as much patience and flexibility from students and faculty as it would from parents, guardians, and siblings. “I never felt like I stopped learning,” said Grade 8 student Zoë Graizzaro, who completed her final year at Derby through the online program. “There will be challenges with online learning...you have to expect that and you have to overcome them and find ways to figure out answers yourself. But I feel it helped me because I found ways to advocate for myself.” As weeks turned into months, it became clear the human connection inherently found in a classroom could not be easily replicated. While coursework continued to challenge, support, and engage students, faculty redefined how to connect with each individual learner. It wasn’t always easy, but innovation is often a response to limitations, and within such boundaries, creativity can flourish in unexpected ways.
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Faculty and students remained connected in ways only made possible by logging on: Zoom morning meetings, virtual field days, and Friday dance parties; French cuisine cooking clubs, online art galleries, and at-home obstacle courses; livestream storytimes, student newspapers, and at-home science labs—all of these activities helped strengthen our bonds, despite never being in the same room. Although physically separated, the Derby community was, in many ways, closer than ever.
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I NEVER FELT LIKE I STOPPED LEARNING —ZOË GRAIZZARO ‘20
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“Screen time gave us that much-needed ability to connect as a community,” said Mike Bowler, adding, “at the same time, we needed to balance options for students that got them away from their screens, and in many cases, outside.” The spring undoubtedly looked and felt different from what anyone was expecting or hoping for. Annual events were canceled, traditions were reformatted, and celebrations were postponed. And while any transition can be challenging in countless ways, what has endured is the School’s mission to provide for its students, and for each other. It’s not yet clear what our path along this “new normal” will look like. In its long history, Derby has survived past atrocities and economic hardships, including the Civil War, two world wars, the Spanish Flu, and the Great Depression. Though each point in history presented its individual challenges, one common thread remains: the Derby community’s genuine dedication to helping our students “Improve Both Mind and Heart” is at every step of the way.
Pictured Above and Below: Lower School students Beatrice Dwyer ’27, Luke Hansen ’25, and Luke deLaar ’25, showcase their schoolwork on the distance learning platform Seesaw.
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Pictured Above: Evelyn Urbano ’26 decorated and delivered over two dozen Kindness Rocks with thoughtful messages to her neighbors. Pictured Right: STEM Curriculum Coordinator Kathleen Malone P’26 created protective masks for healthcare workers using the 3D printers from Derby’s MakerSpace.
DERBY CARES
“HOW CAN WE HELP?” It was a sentiment shared by so many, at a time when the hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic seemed relentless. The response was Derby Cares, a six-week initiative that brought the Derby community together to share stories of hope, empathy, and inspiration. BEGINNING IN APRIL and continuing through May, each week united the School
around themes of partnership, compassion, and generosity to assist and support one another and those in need. Whether by offering material assistance or simply a comforting word or thoughtful gesture, spirits were lifted and stories of kindness helped balance the daunting statistics of the pandemic. RECONNECTION The launch of DerbyConnect, an online directory for Derby alumni 18+, created more opportunities to connect in meaningful ways and re-engage members of our alumni family. The network anchored the former classmates in the midst of turmoil and helped re-establish the relationships that were such an integral part of their Derby experience.
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COMMUNITY Swapping favorite recipes, sending thoughtful hand-written letters, and designing Kindness Rocks with inspirational and supportive messages boosted our spirits. ESSENTIAL WORKERS AND FIRST RESPONDERS Students, alumni, parents of alumni, current parents, and many friends of the School provided much-needed personal protective equipment, as well as emotional support for doctors, nurses, and front-line workers battling the pandemic. SELF-CARE A week of live yoga sessions, social-emotional resources, and a community-wide fitness challenge had us focused on our mental and physical health. The extended Derby community pledged to stay active and ran, walked, and biked a total of 1,945.7 miles, surpassing our goal of accumulating 1,784 miles.
MENTORSHIP We passed along our knowledge, friendship, and support as our Pals wrote to one another, sharing their pandemic stories and asking their partners the important question, “how are you?” GIVING WEEK At the conclusion of the initiative, a Giving Week celebrated our school and its founder, Madam Derby, by honoring her 306th birthday. A heartfelt “thank you” to all who helped surpass our 100-donor goal and raise over $40,000 for the School! ________ As a crucial component of Derby’s mission, the themes of Derby Cares came during a critical time in the School’s history. The community came together to support each other and show that acts of kindness, no matter how small, can help make a difference in the world.
Below: Derby alumni Cameron DiRico ’19 (pictured) and Michael Regan ’18, and their families assisted the COVID-19 relief efforts by applying their sewing skills they learned at Derby to make hundreds of face masks for front-line healthcare workers.
Pictured Left and Above: The McConathy family Sydney, Chad, Declan ’25, and Hayden ’28 and (above) Zoe Rudolph ’23 stayed active and joined the 1,784 Challenge. Pictured Below: The Fawcett family made 200 cloth masks that were generously donated to The Village at Duxbury senior living facility. Special thanks to Derby Trustee Rob Fawcett, his wife Maria, and their children, Victoria ’18, Sophia ’19, and Robbie ’21 for all their effort!
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A FIRST FOR LAST CHAPEL
FOR THE FIRST TIME, this year’s Last Chapel ceremony was held virtually in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, the annual event gathered the school community to reflect on the academic year, the shift to remote teaching and learning, and to recognize and honor our collective and individual accomplishments. “WHILE WE ARE not physically seated
in the room with you today, our nods, our smiles, our cheer, our hearts, and our genuine pride are with you,” said Middle and Upper School Division Head Kate Howell. Ms. Howell reminded guests of the school year’s themes of comfort and confidence, introduced on the first day of school to help guide our community through the academic year. 26
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Pictured Above: Grade 8 student and Derby Lifer Abby Hayes joins Connor Steele and MS/US Division Head Kate Howell in virtually addressing the Last Chapel audience.
“Every day this year, you all stretched yourselves to find new areas of comfort, new ways to take risks, and new moments of confidence,” Ms. Howell said to students. “This spring, we all found our comfort and confidence tested in a way we never would have imagined. Our community became a virtual one, and we had to build new comfort levels, and we had to find new confidence.”
Ms. Howell addressed the Class of 2020 specifically, adding, “You worked hard, you accepted these challenges, and you had fun while you extended your comfort and helped others build confidence. You accomplished a lot, you led with integrity.” “You stayed connected, you stayed together,” she concluded. “And for this, we thank you. For this, we commend you. For this, we congratulate you.”
This year provided opportunities for multiple students to deliver the Grade 8 Address. Morgan Bénard, Max Daniello, Zoë Graizzaro, Abby Hayes, and Connor Steele reflected on their classmates, their time at Derby, as well as the Class of 2020’s shift to remote learning.
LAST CHAPEL AWARDS
Rich Andriole and Lorena Kavande Flores delivered the Faculty Address, reflecting on the personal and academic growth they have witnessed in each of the graduates. This year, the speakers were virtually backed by their colleagues, who added heartwarming anecdotes for each of the Grade 8 students.
Barrett Cosgrove ’20
“When I think about this eighth grade, the first word that comes to mind is ‘caring,’ said Mr. Andriole. “You all have a connection and bond as a class unlike most I’ve seen ...You’ve shown you care in many ways.” “What makes this Class of 2020 unique from others is the strength you each found to remain connected with your friends, to keep learning, to dance in front of the screen, and to take your learning journey with a smile,” said Ms. Kavande. “This was not an easy transition, yet your partnership with your families and your teachers led you to develop an admirable resilience.” “All of us will miss being your teachers,” added Mr. Andriole. “Although it didn’t go as planned, this year was a successful one for all of you.” “As you move forward, take your experiences and turn them into valuable lessons for others,” Ms. Kavande said. “Know that your presence will be missed, yet your mark is present in the lives of those you impacted during your years here. As you enter this new world, become leaders who will improve both the minds and hearts of wherever you go.”
Elvira Butterworth Prize for History Nikhil Rich ’20
Susan Feins ’85 Prize for Excellence in Science Francis Ranieri Mathematics Award Connor Steele ’20
Wheelwright Family Prize in English Victor Matheos ’20
Michael J. Connelly Latin Prize Max Stevens ’20
Martignetti Prizes in Modern Languages Taylor Darby ’20 Kevin Farmer ’20
Coyle-Driscoll Art Prize Elsa Landy ’20
Zildjian Music Award Victor Matheos ’20
E. Brooks Robbins Coaches Award David Kleberg
Edward R. Foley Citizenship Prize Penelope Tregoe ‘21
Susan Feins Spirit Award Brooke Hansen ’20
Trustees Major Banner Awards Sophie Miller ’20 William Synnestvedt ’20
Head of School Pennant Neeyah Erold ‘22 Heyden Hildebrandt ‘22
Parents Association Minor Banner David Greaney ‘21 Bella Mazzocco ‘21
Spirit Team Recognition Brooke Hansen ’20 Sophie Miller ’20 Kate Beaulieu ’20 Elizabeth Farren ’20 Pictured Above: Faculty members Rich Andriole and Lorena Kavande Flores virtually deliver the Faculty Address.
Nicholas Holovacs ’20 Roni Yasmine ’20 Luke Keegan ’20 Myles Olney ’20 YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
27
DERBY DAY d e n i g a m i e R
NEARLY THREE MONTHS to the day since the School separated, the campus gathered to celebrate Derby’s 229th Derby Day. The annual tradition took a noticeably different approach this year by live-streaming its end-of-year celebrations, vocal performances, and special award presentations. THE TRADITIONAL WALK down
Fearing Road was reimagined as a car procession for Grade 8 students and families, a well-deserved moment in the spotlight for the graduates. While the recognition of the Class of 2020 started early with home-delivered graduation signs and celebratory webpages, Derby Day began with an all-school, virtual Choral Concert that featured the musical talent of Derby students across divisions. Special tributes to departing faculty members Linda Henderson, Peter Condrick ’90, and Georganne Browning were accompanied by poignant stories of their profound impact on the Derby community.
28
DERBY ACADEMY
Faculty member Peter Condrick helped share anecdotes from colleagues and students, reflecting on Georganne Browning’s 15 years at Derby: “It’s nothing short of impossible to try to encompass your career at Derby and your influence on our lives,” said Mr. Condrick. “Your smile, your unrestrained laugh, and your eagerness to be fully invested in everyone you meet here, is synonymous with Derby and the community. You have personified investment and compassion in every activity you shared with your students.” English Department Co-Chair Rich Andriole shared his memories, as well as those of current and former colleagues, of Peter Condrick’s 20 years at Derby:
“You, without exception, love and respect everyone you meet,” Mr. Andriole said. “You strive to live up to the idea of ‘love thy neighbor’ as much as anyone. My life has been made immeasurably richer for knowing you and being your friend. Peter, thank you for the laughs, for teaching me about rugby, for being an example of integrity and courage, and for all you’ve given and done for Derby for the past 20 years.” In honor of Linda Henderson’s remarkable career at Derby, faculty members shared the sentiment of her 26 years as a teacher, colleague, and friend. “Mrs. Henderson has been such a huge part of not only my Derby experience, but also my development as a teacher,” said Ms. Peterman. “I shall ever-try to strive to emulate her warmth, compassion, and sense of humor.” “You have been a shining star of smiles, reassurance, and child-centeredness,” Mary Beth Murphy said. “Thank you for
bringing your teaching, joy, and your genuine self to all of us every day.” Mary Ellen Olson added, “I’ve admired her confidence, her kindness to others, her passion for learning, and her genuine love and dedication to the children she teaches.” Following the Choral Concert, Middle and Upper School Division Head Kate Howell addressed the Class of 2020, families, and guests: “Thank you for all you have given to Derby throughout your years here,” said Ms. Howell. “‘Hindsight is 2020’ is a proverb meaning it’s easier to analyze and evaluate situations when we have had time away and are looking back at them. I’d like to do my best to be sure that some things are clear to you today—that you have a sharp vision of how we see you all. I hope you will see that, collectively, you were a class of many personalities, many interests, many talents. I hope you will see that you were scientists, mathematicians, writers, readers, artists, dancers, singers, athletes, environmentalists. You were devoted Pals, engaged students, and supportive peers. You were careful listeners and participants in class and were patient. I hope you will see and acknowledge the way you came together as a class. From those foggy days in Acadia, to the rope courses at Sargent Center, you have learned from each other, supported each other, laughed with each other, and cried with each other. I hope you see that you were concerned citizens and that you were leaders. This is how we have seen you, Class of 2020. You each have made your mark on Derby. You all have so much to offer this world as you move forward. Go forward comfortably, go forward with confidence, go forward with your strength,
YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
29
your values, your sense of humor, your creativity, your loyalty, your conviction, and the knowledge that your voice—quiet or loud—is yours to develop and grow. It is yours to help create the change that you want to see in the world.” This year, faculty member Caitlyn McDonnell was awarded the Thomas J. Waters Prize for excellence in teaching. Primary and Lower School Division Head Scot Chandler recognized “her care and concern for the children through her compassion, by setting high expectations for the students and herself, and by her dedication to improving her craft...she steps in to help children without being asked, modeling for children what it means to be a team player and take initiative.” This year, Taylor Darby received the Madam Sarah Derby Pin and Max Daniello received the Academy Pin; Derby Academy’s two highest awards presented to students who most nearly embody the values of the Derby community. The Reverend Dr. Catherine Cullen of First Parish Duxbury virtually delivered the Derby Day Lecture. Derby was fortunate enough to welcome her as 30
DERBY ACADEMY
the Derby Day Lecturer in 2008, and as the grandmother of a graduating Derby student, the mother of a Derby alumna, and a widow of a Derby alumnus, Rev. Cullen represents three generations of the extended Derby community.
“
This day marks the end of your time at Derby Academy, and the beginning of the next phase of your academic career...this occasion marks a wonderful opportunity to remember all the gifts you have received here at Derby.
EVEN THOUGH FOR THE PAST THREE MONTHS YOU’VE BEEN APART, YOU MAY BE ONE OF THE MOST WELL CONNECTED AND COHESIVE CLASSES THAT DERBY HAS EVER KNOWN. — THE REVEREND DR. CATHERINE CULLEN
“This Derby Day will go down in the history of Derby Academy as one very special Derby Day, and how appropriate, because you are a very special class,” Rev. Cullen said. “I have been to your plays and your musicals and your special events. I’ve watched you over the years blossom into these amazing young women and young men.
You’ve been given a strong foundation in academic excellence, a well-rounded classical education that has provided you not only with academic challenge, but with teachers who’ve known you well and have encouraged you to achieve your personal best. You are all connected deeply to one another. And for the past few months,
Academy has a class had to finish the last trimester online. And that’s been difficult. Difficult for you, your teachers, and your families, but you have persevered. You have stayed strong, you’ve stayed determined, even when it was hard to work from home, even when you missed your friends a whole lot. You have shown your parents and your teachers that you are resilient and determined and strong. And this experience of finishing up your last trimester in this challenging way has changed you forever. From now on, no matter what happens to you in your life, you’ll remember you were not afraid to make the sacrifices. And all through your life, you’re going to get to say, ‘I can do this hard thing.’ You are connected, cohesive, accepting, determined, and strong.
you have found lots of ways to stay connected. The irony is, even though for the past three months you’ve been apart, you may be one of the most well connected and cohesive classes that Derby has ever known. You have not been afraid to make sacrifices. Never in the history of Derby
Your time at Derby Academy has come to end, and not in the way you expected. You have lots of memories of Derby to take with you on your life’s journey. I hope you will always remember how well you’ve taken care of each other, through the good times and bad. I hope you remember how much the world needs you, the special Class of 2020. You have changed us all for the better.” While the Derby community couldn’t walk together this year, the spirit of the School was with each graduate as they drove to New North Church and circled back to campus to receive special gift boxes. Georgia Barrett and Kevin Farmer, the two academically top-ranked Grade 8 students, led the procession as the Derby Day Parade Marshalls, followed by Derby’s Spirit Team Captains. The long lines of friendly smiles, waves, and cheers made this Derby Day just as memorable as its graduating class.
YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
31
FACULTY FAREWELL
We are so thankful for the many contributions and years of service of the following faculty members who will be pursuing new endeavors. Their dedication to students and families has been an integral part of the Derby community and we wish them all continued success.
LINDA HENDERSON
PETER CONDRICK ’90
GEORGANNE BROWNING
MIKE BOWLER
Having watched her Grade 4 students grow and develop into confident young adults over her 26 years in the classroom, Linda Henderson is retiring after a remarkable career at Derby Academy. As a past parent, grandparent, and teacher, she’s brought a unique perspective to the faculty team with her institutional knowledge, informed conversations, and quick wit. Derby will deeply miss her bright smile, caring disposition, and her ability to see her students as individuals.
After 15 years at Derby, Georganne will be retiring. She always provided a safe environment where students could be themselves, whether with her current class or welcoming older students back into her classroom with an infectious smile. Her genuine interest in the well-being of children was made clear by her regular participation in Open Circle and imparting the values of kindness, respect, and good manners. In her many years as a Grade 5 teacher and through her coordination of the School’s annual International Night, she imparted the important lessons of global history and awareness. 32
DERBY ACADEMY
Peter’s roots run much deeper than his 20 years as a teacher at Derby. As an alum, parent, coach, and teacher, Peter will be leaving Derby having contributed in such profound ways through his years of teaching, launching the aquaponics program, and instituting the School’s rugby program. Peter’s intelligence and passion have been a continual asset to the Derby community, and his deep respect for history, honor, and hard work has influenced countless students to live better and stronger.
In his eight years at Derby, Mike has served as a history teacher, department head, coach, and most recently as director of teaching and learning, always providing guidance to students and faculty with his well-stocked pedagogical toolkit. Derby’s globally-focused approach to learning has been due in part to his successful Model UN Club and the Grade 8 Global Nomads program. His eagerness to embrace new teaching resources, academic schedules, and progressive ways of thinking stem from a genuine interest in empowering students to think, question, and discover.
MATRICULATION—CLASS OF 2016 Abbey Road Institute, Miami
Dartmouth University
University of Colorado, Boulder
Boston College
Dickinson College
University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Georgetown University
University of Miami
Boston University
Middlebury College
University of Michigan
Bowdoin College
Northeastern University
University of North Carolina
Brown University
Providence College
University of Vermont
Bucknell University
Siena College
Virginia Tech University
Colorado College
Skidmore College
Cornell University
Union College
MATRICULATION—CLASS OF 2020 Applewild School
Duxbury High School
Noble and Greenough School
Archbishop Williams
Hingham High School
Northfield Mount Hermon School
Belmont Hill School
Holderness School
Phillips Exeter Academy
Berwick Academy
Kent School
Pomfret School
Boston College High School
Lawrence Academy
The Rivers School St. Mark’s School
Boston University Academy
Middlesex School
Cardinal Spellman High School
Milton Academy
Tabor Academy
Dexter Southfield School
Newman School
Thayer Academy
YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
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DERBY COUNCIL MEMBERS AND GUESTS of the
Derby Council met for a reception at Old Derby in October, welcoming new members, recognizing the support and guidance of the group, and celebrating the long-history of the School.
LEADERSHIP RECEPTION
THIS WINTER, the School celebrated the holiday season by acknowledging
the continued and generous support of Leadership donors during an evening reception at Tosca in Hingham.
34
DERBY ACADEMY
TURKEY DAY REUNION
ALUMNI from the classes of
2016–2019 returned to campus for their Turkey Day Reunion, reconnecting with classmates and members of Derby’s faculty.
THANKSGIVING ALUMNI REUNION ALUMNI gathered in Hingham the day after Thanksgiving to reconnect with classmates and share memories of their time at Derby.
YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
35
A LU M N I
CLASS NOTES 1940s
GIFFORD DEAN ’45 writes: “I’m 92
years old, doing well. Still doing volunteer work. I still value my four years at Derby. It might have been more, but we moved because my father went back in the Navy.” MARJORIE DEAN BURGARD ’47 writes: “I enjoy my life at The Village of Duxbury. It is a very active lifestyle. I paint watercolors and enjoy a memoirs writing group. I still row in my single racing shell and in the Alden Ocean Shell in the summer. Derby started me on my life’s journey!” SUSANNAH RICH GOUREVITCH ’48 writes: “We have moved again! This time we are living in Tucson, Arizona. Our move was a bit delayed because of the coronavirus.” ELIZABETH (BETH) CODMAN HIGH ’49 writes: “I am still living in my cottage at CCRC, Westminster at Lake Ridge. My husband, George, died in March 2019. I still drive, travel, volunteer, and I am healthy. I have much to be thankful for. Greetings to my former classmates and others who remember me.”
1950s
HARRIS POOR ’50 writes: “After a life of
singing opera, I am now more silent.” ELIZABETH AGENS DURANT ’52 writes: “I have moved to Linden Ponds in Hingham—come full circle! I see Sally (Parsons) Sayre ’51 and Sue (Sylvester) Kaloustian ’51 a fair amount. Loved teaching art at Derby in the ’60s!” TOM BELKNAP ’54 writes: “I’m retired from practicing law with Ropes & Gray in Boston and now living at OceanView
36
DERBY ACADEMY
Retirement Community in Falmouth,
PETER HUBBARD ’71 writes: “What
Maine. Enjoying sailing the boat that I built
good fortune to be a Derby student! In
last year!”
contact with some of the classmates and usual troublemakers: Lisa Herstad Koed,
FREDERICA PLIMPTON
Juliette Guild Reid, Hopey Swift,
DRINKWATER PERERA ’56 is a
Michael Bleakie, Bill Cooney, Marsom
professor at Columbia University working
Pratt, Thomas Suddath, as well as Jody
on children’s environmental health and
Thaxter ’70. I keep busy managing the
climate change.
American Red Cross Boston Food Pantry for 11 years now. I am a member of the
SARAH HITCHCOCK-DEGREGORI ’58
Apollinaire Theatre Company in Chelsea,
writes: “I have retired from teaching and
MA, where I live.”
doing research at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, moved from
ROSANNA TUFTS ’75 writes: “In
New Jersey to Massachusetts. Alessandro
January 2020, before we all had to go into
and I enjoy being in Massachusetts in the
pandemic isolation, I teamed up with a local
beautiful Berkshires.”
friend for a concert of solos and duets from opera and musical theatre. The program is
1960s
available as a playlist on YouTube.”
writes: “I joined the Derby Council last
1980s
Search: “Recital: McGowan & Tufts”
VIRGINIA KNAPP CARGILL ’67
fall. I’m a grandmother of Eliza Cargill. My oldest son, Bill, and family moved to
RUSSELL BLAKE ’85 married Jamie
Hingham. Very exciting for me to be back in
E. Johnson (Blake) on July 4, 1998, and
town more often (home is CT). My youngest
they have four children—Hunter, Emma,
son, Steve, is working in Boston and is
Kallie, and Makenna. Russell is a production
engaged.”
engineer at Teledyne Benthos in Falmouth, MA and Jamie is a second grade teacher at
1970s
Calvary Chapel Academy in Rockland, MA.
1966 to attend Milton Academy and then
her business partner, Michelle Manware,
Harvard. He traveled south to Washington
opened a self-service wine bar in Plymouth
to attend Georgetown University’s law
Center, MA in July 2019. Uva Wine Bar is
school and is now in his 41st year of
the South Shore’s first self-serve wine bar
practicing law. He spent many years in the
featuring 12 interactive NAPA Technology
government in bank regulation (specializing
WineStations, at which customers can
in the use of derivatives by banks) and then
choose from 48 different wines. The menu
in private practice at a Wall Street firm. He’s
also includes a Build Your Own Board so
now semi-retired and consults and paints.
customers can customize cheese boards
He is married to the former Bernadette
with their favorite cheeses, charcuterie, and
Fowler and has two sons, Cliff and Sam.
other wine-friendly foods, as well as
DONALD LAMSON ’70 left Derby in
KATY THAYER GAENICKE ’87 and
locally-made chocolate truffles and homemade desserts.
3
2 1
6
5 4
Three generations—former Latin teacher Michael Connelly holds Jacob, as new dad Michael Connelly ’97 beams with joy.
It’s all smiles from Field Henry Cramer Fox’s big sister, Willa, and grandmother Gale Willauer P’97,’07. He shares the same birthday as his two uncles—Charlie Willauer and Peter Willauer ’07.
7
9 Derby friends in attendance were (l–r): David Plimpton (son of John Plimpton ’38), Gardner Loring ’99, mother of the bride Kate Sturgis P’99, staff member Squeakie Thompson, Caroline Curtis Hayes ’99, Cameron Burnham ’99, Vikki Dallas ’99, Marion Martignetti P’99,’01,’04, former faculty member Woody Lawson, Ayres and David Thompson GP’22,’24,’27 and lying down is Cameron’s step-father Robert Mustard. (Missing from the photo were Courtney and Gregg Jordan P’99.)
8
1990s
Derby Trustee JEN LOWE NEWELL ’90 and Matt Newell welcomed William Newell in May 2020. STEVE ANDERSON ’91 and Mandy Anderson welcomed their third child, Alexandria Adams Anderson, on April 8, 2019 in Chesterfield, VA. She joins Stevie Jr. (12) and Lydia Clark (9). #1 BOB ORSHAK ’91 and Frances Lewis were married on October 26, 2019 in Del Mar, CA. #2
SARAH CHASE NATAN ’93 and Lev
CORY CRAMER ’97 and Kate Fox
Natan welcomed Emet Kol Natan at the end
welcomed Field Henry Cramer Fox on
of August 2019. #3
October 3, 2019. #6
COLIN WOOD ’93 and Emad Chedid
EMILY ZILDJIAN HILL ’97 and
were married on June 1, 2019 in Las Vegas,
Lawrence Hill welcomed Colton Zildjian
NV.
Hill on July 3, 2019. #7
Allison and GEOFF CHAMBERLAIN ’94
KELSEY NICHOLS LEAHY ’97 and
welcomed Henry Arthur Chamberlain on
Patrick Leahy welcomed Dean Sullivan
April 2, 2019. He joins big sisters, Lily (9)
Leahy on November 26, 2019. #8
and Elena (6). #4
CAMERON BURNHAM ’99 and Jack
MICHAEL CONNELLY ’97 and Kelly
Roosevelt were married on October 19, 2019
Kreinest welcomed Jacob Michael Connelly
in Chatham, MA. #9
on February 8, 2019. #5 YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
37
10
REUNITED AT THE RINK
FRIENDS OF DERBY laced up for the annual Walter Sullivan Family
Hockey Game in March. Alumni, staff, parents, and students met at center ice for a fun evening at the rink.
13
11
12 15
14
18 16 17
19 38
20 DERBY ACADEMY
21
22
KRISTEN DEANE CAMPBELL ’99 and
CALI STEELE ’01 and Jimmy Duggan
Douglas Campbell welcomed Mariko (Mari)
welcomed Oona Burnes Duggan-Steele on
Campbell on April 23, 2020. #10
March 30, 2020.
VIKKI DALLAS ’99 is engaged to John
LIBBY DENNISTON ’02 and Seth
Petruziello.
Palmer welcomed Samuel Warren
TYLER HENRY ’99 and Annelise Whitley
Denniston Palmer on June 16, 2019. #18
were married on August 24, 2019 in
LIZ JACKSON ’02 writes: “I began
Philadelphia.
an accelerated nursing program at Massachusetts General Hospital Institute
ALEX JOHNSTON ’99 and Claire
of Health Professions in January 2020 and
Polcha were married on August 17, 2019 in
plan to graduate in May 2021.”
Tarrytown, NY. #11
23
KELSEY JORDAN PERKINS ’02 and THEO JORDAN ’99 is engaged to Paul
Seth Perkins welcomed Eloise Kathryn
Marollo.
Perkins on March 30, 2020. #19
ANNE THOMAE ’99 is engaged to Thomas
FRANCI RYAN COURAGE ’03 and
Hurwitch.
Marty Courage welcomed Sophie Elizabeth
DOROTHY BILLINGS ZANI ’99 and
24 Matching outfits with big brother Henry.
Courage on June 3, 2019. #20
Alex Zani welcomed Alexander “Pierce”
ALEXIS DEMETRIADES ’03 and Ian
Griffin Zani on October 5, 2019. #12
Spooner were married on August 17, 2019 in Tabernash, CO. #21
2000s
SARAH PICKERING GAGLIARD ’00
and Rob Gagliard welcomed Maris Elle Gagliard on July 2, 2019. #13 CHURCHILL HAMMOND ’00 is
25
26
Josh Gonya welcomed Thomas Matthew Gonya on October 3, 2019. #22 RACHEL LEE ’03 and Matt Vezina were married on October 5, 2019 in Wiscasset,
engaged to Lauren Friel.
ME. #23
JANE MELLORS LEBEL ’00 and Mark
ALLISON BOYNTON CAYZER ’04 and
LeBel welcomed Clementine (Emmie) Jane
Bertie Cayzer welcomed Charles Freeman
on January 3, 2020. #14
Cayzer on September 27, 2019. #24
MIKE O’BRIEN ’00 and Drew O’Brien
THOMAS JORDAN ’04 and Stacy
welcomed Brooke Ashley O’Brien on
Oost-Lievense were married on October 4,
August 19, 2019. #15
2019 in Mashpee, MA. John-Eliot
NACIE CARSON PEREIRA ’00 and
Jordan ’01 officiated the wedding. #25
Charles Pereira welcomed Grace Elizabeth
JAKE MINEVITZ ’04 and Laura
Pereira on September 16, 2019. #16
Minevitz welcomed Georgia Louise
JENNA SAVAGE RYAN ’01 and Evan
27
AMANDA BROPHY GONYA ’03 and
Minevitz on November 12, 2019. #26
Ryan welcomed Crosby Ford Ryan on
MALLORY BAKER ’04 and Al Schupp
August 3, 2019. #17
were married on September 13, 2019 in Bailey, CO. #27
YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
39
JOE COMRAS ’05 and Audrey Comras
was their summer intern. #33
welcomed Lily Mae Comras on July 12, 2019. #28
TOCHI ANUONYEMERE ‘19 is doing well at South Shore Charter Public School.
KARLEE KOSWICK ’12 graduated
He writes: “My brother Ugo ’13, who is
from Villanova University and is going to
now at Northeastern, and I are home
REBECCA NAHILL ’05 and Chris
graduate school for a master’s/PhD program
doing school. I keep in touch with John
Sirianni were married on August 24, 2019 in
in mechanical engineering at Dartmouth
Adams (Northfield Mount Hermon),
Marion, MA. #29
College.
John Bernatavicius (Boston College
JOHN WISBACH ’05 and Abby Smith
ZACH LOWE ’12 finished up his degree
High School), Ty Cashman (Noble and
were married on August 17, 2019 in Duxbury,
in criminal justice at Endicott College and
Greenough School), Henry Synnestvedt
MA. #30
wants to be a policeman.
(Tabor Academy) and Brendan McGovern
HAYDEN FOWNES ’06 is engaged to
Following a freshman year at Rhode
Jenna Laske.
Island School of Design, ELIZABETH
High School), Nick Wanderley (Norwell
MULLANEY ’13 transferred to Columbia MAX HOFFMAN ’06 writes: “I moved
University where she is majoring in art
to New York in the summer of 2018 to start
history and English.
residency training in anesthesiology.” LILY FARDEN ’15 won the Miller Medal MOLLIE SCHEERER ’06 is engaged to
at Nobles’ graduation in June 2019. The
Connor Proctor.
medal is awarded to the most outstanding scholar-athlete of the school’s graduating
JENN SPOFFORD ’06 and James Rutter
class. Lily graduated with Highest Academic
welcomed Lucia Rose Rutford on April 4,
Distinction and was a member of the
2019. #31
Cum Laude Society. She was a three-sport
KENZIE RAYMOND ’06 is engaged to Frankie Marone. CAROLINE WIKLUND ’06 and Chris Laurel were married on June 9, 2018 in Boston. #32 DANNY SEARS ’07 is engaged to Tyler Donahue. GABE SEKSAY ’07 is engaged to Jennifer Blair.
varsity athlete and a two-sport captain. In her four years at Nobles, she amassed six Independent School League titles and two New England championships, along with numerous individual accolades. Last June, Farden was also recognized by The Boston Globe as the 2019 NEPSAC Female Athlete of the Year, recognizing her as the top
(Thayer Academy). All those guys are doing well and still doing sports...Looking forward to when we can all visit Derby.”
FACULTY
Faculty members ANNIE PETERMAN and MIKE BOWLER were married on August 16, 2019 in Somerville, MA. Faculty member MCKENZIE LYNCH and Peter Lynch welcomed Emmaline Marie Lynch on February 2, 2020. #35 Derby Fund Director CHRISTINA KENNY and Pat Kenny welcomed Sawyer Michael Kenny on March 12, 2020. #36 Staff member ANTHONY BLACK and Samantha Black welcomed Sophie Mae Black on May 26, 2020. #37
female scholar-athlete in the NEPSAC. She received the John Carlton Award from the Boston Bruins as the top high school hockey player in MA, and was a 2018 gold medalist for the Team USA U-18 women’s ice hockey
28
team. Lily continues to play ice hockey
2010s
at Harvard.
children in New Hampshire and wrapping
gathered after a Thayer football game last
JESS LOWE ’10 is working with autistic
up her master’s degree in applied behavior analysis. Last summer PJ MCDONALD ’11 and HENRY BUTTERFIELD ’14 played baseball for the Malden Mad Dogs, which is part of a summer collegiate/semi-pro Intercity League. Graham Butterfield ’17 40
DERBY ACADEMY
Derby alumni from the CLASS OF 2017 fall. #34
29
KATE BRABHAM ’18 writes: “Before everything with the coronavirus, I was in my second season of ski instructing at Okemo, VT and now I’m a certified alpine ski instructor. I am loving living in New Jersey. I hope everyone in MA is doing okay!!”
30
NEW WEBSITE WINS AWARD Derby’s website redesign was recently awarded the 2020 Gold Muse Creative
RECONNECT WITH CLASSMATES
Award, which recognizes outstanding website design.
DERBYCONNECT is a free online directory for alumni 18+. Login with your
The School launched its new website
primary email address in Derby’s database. This directory will allow you to easily
in January 2020 featuring a responsive
find classmates, network with alumni/ae in your field, search by location using the
layout and an enhanced user experience.
map feature, and submit class notes. If you have any problems logging in, do not hesitate to contact Derby at:
DERBYACADEMY.ORG
alums@derbyacademy.org We can resend the invitation or update our records to your preferred email address. DERBYACADEMY.ORG/ALUMNI
31 The late great-grandfather Dr. Edward Woods P’71,’73,’75,’78 and Susan Woods Spofford ’75 with Jenn and baby Lucia, named after her late great-grandmother, Lucia Hedge Woods P’71,’73,’75,’78.
33
32
34 (Pictured l–r): PJ Farley, Luca Milano, Henry Keohan (at Milton), Ethan Bartletta, Quinn McConnaughey and Sam Hess kneeling in the front row.
PARENTS & ALUMNI
35
Please visit www.derbyacademy.org/update to send us your correct mailing address and contact information. Engagements, births, marriages, or job news? Send us news and photos of the events in your lives! We want to hear about it and so do your classmates! Email Derby at: alums@derbyacademy.org
37
36 YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
41
1930s
IN MEMORIAM
ARTHUR M. RAYMOND ’36, of Hingham, passed away peacefully at Linden Ponds in September at the age of 101. Arthur was a lifelong Hingham resident. In his early years, he was an avid sailor and raced boats at the Hingham Yacht Club. He was a graduate of Hingham High School and Amherst College. Graduating from Amherst in 1942, he joined the Army and was stationed in India during WWII. After the war, Arthur met his wife, Joy, in Boston and they were married in 1949 in Arlington. Arthur spent his entire career in the printing industry, retiring from Nimrod Press at the age of 80. Arthur loved spending time with his family and took up downhill skiing in his 50s. Around the same time he also started mountain climbing and became a member of the Appalachian Mountain Club. He ultimately qualified as a member of the “4,000 Footer Club,” climbing all of the mountains in New England that were above 4,000 feet. Arthur was dedicated to his fitness regime, working out at the Quincy YMCA well into his 90s. He spent summers in New Hampshire and was an active member of Old South Union Church in Weymouth. He enjoyed traveling with Joy, especially to Jerusalem, Alaska, and Hawaii. Arthur was predeceased by his wife, Joy, in 2017. Beloved father to Richard Raymond and his wife, Jane, Janet Lindley and her husband, Reed, and Nancy Whitney and her husband, Steve. Brother of the late Carter Raymond ’38 and Barbara (Raymond) Plant. Arthur was predeceased by his daughter, Jean H. Raymond. 42
DERBY ACADEMY
EMILY RAND HERMAN ’37 died on
ELEANOR GLEASON BLEAKIE ’37
July 4, 2019 having recently celebrated her
died peacefully at her home on the Gulf
100th birthday. Emily spent her early years
River on July 2, 2019 at the young age
in Hingham and Lincoln, MA and graduated
of 99. She was known for her elegance,
from Smith College in 1941. She taught
strength, and style, but especially for her
at Concord Academy for a year and then
sharp wit. She lived life on her own terms
married William Herman in 1943. Bill and
and in the end wrote her own script. The
Emily lived in Cambridge and then settled in
widow of John Maxwell Bleakie, she
Sturbridge, MA, where they raised their four
leaves her children Howard Bleakie ’63 of
children: Louise, Lucy, Emily, and Geoffrey.
Manchester, Vermont; Maxwell Bleakie ’64
The family moved to Hingham and then to
of Wellesley, MA; Michael Bleakie ’71
Lincoln, MA. Wherever they lived, Emily got
of Scituate, MA and Gail Bleakie
involved in the community; from parent-
Middendorf ’73 of Newtown Square,
teacher organizations to international
PA, their respective spouses, and six
exchange student programs. In 1967, Bill and
grandchildren. Born in 1920, Eleanor was
Emily purchased an old farm property in
the daughter of Hollis and Emily Gleason
Georgetown, Maine and built a house. Emily
and happily spent her entire life in Cohasset.
joined the Georgetown Working League,
She attended Derby and Milton Academy,
volunteering many hours at The Chocolate
and graduated from Smith College in 1941.
Church Arts Center and the Maine Maritime
During World War II, she served in the
Museum. No matter where she lived,
Massachusetts Women’s Defense Corp. In
Emily followed the Red Sox, gardened with
1943, she married Lt. John Maxwell Bleakie,
vigor, and sailed when the tides and winds
USNA. After her husband returned from
were right. She loved photography, taking
the war in the Pacific, they bought Lion’s
pictures of family and friends, beautiful
Head Farm in 1946 and raised their four
scenes, and the work of apprentice boat
children in an orderly household. Following
builders. A fierce competitor, she played
the death of her husband in 1975, Eleanor
every game with all her heart, from tennis
devoted herself to great causes. She was
and badminton, to kitchen floor hockey. She
Vice President of the World Affairs Council
was known as “Ummy” to her grandchildren
and served as Chairman of Diplomats Off
and great-grandchildren and always had a
The Record. She established a world-wide
jar full of cookies for any visitor. Emily was
program designed to meet with government
predeceased by her husband of 72 years,
leaders and prominent citizens to promote
Bill Herman; her brothers, Malcolm “Jack”
peace. During this period, she traveled
Rand ’35 and William “Bill” Rand ’38; and
extensively in Europe and the Middle
her sister, Lucy Rand Everts ’39. Emily is
East. On behalf of the World Affairs, she
survived by her brother, four children, ten
presented the Christian Herter Award to
grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren;
Anwar Sadat of Egypt, Margaret Thatcher of
and many nephews and nieces.
Great Britain, and President George H. W.
Bush. Locally, she held leadership positions
by constant activity as a volunteer in the
as a trustee of Thayer Academy and Dean
Town Election Office for 40 years; with the
College, and served on the boards of The
historical society and garden club; with the
South Shore Arts Center, The South Shore
Manomet Bird Observatory, working in the
Conservatory, The Cohasset Historical
bird banding room; on the team that built
Society, The Gulf River Association and
the Cohasset Captains Walk; as an active
her special love, The Cohasset Garden
member of the Trustees of Reservations;
Club, where she was an active member for
and for 25 years in the gift shop at Beth
73 years and past president from 1953 to
Israel Deaconess. With her friends she
1954. At the age of 79, she built her dream
bowled, golfed, and knitted endlessly—her
house “Lion’s Pride” on the shores of the
Christmas stockings along with her ski hats
Gulf River, where she enjoyed gardening,
and sweaters were very much prized among
entertaining, and especially visits from her
friends and her family. She was also an avid
family and friends. The Gulf River was her
reader and an excellent shot with a shotgun.
happy roommate for more than 20 years.
Grace is survived by her three children, Melissa ’69, Robin ’70, and Russell ’76 and
1940s In Loving Memory
four grandchildren. Grace was predeceased by her parents, her husband, her brother (William Goodwin Russell Jr. ’49) and her son-in-law.
ANGELA BARRY SMITH ’43
1950s
ROBERT ERNEST BELKNAP III ’52,
age 81, died April 10, 2019 in Palm Coast, FL. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Mary Sloan Belknap; his daughters, nine grandchildren; his brothers, including Thomas Belknap ’54, and his sister. Robert was raised in Duxbury and Lloyd Neck, NY, and graduated from Pomfret School, the University of Virginia, and attended NYU Stern School of Business. Robert was an officer in the U.S. Navy and worked as a portfolio manager on Wall Street for most of his life. He served on the boards of the YWCA of New York City, the United Hospital Fund of Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Hospital, and the Children’s Village of Dobbs Ferry. He was a member of the Vestry of Grace Church, Brooklyn Heights, and the Finance Committee of the Stony Creek Congregational Church. Robert loved
ANNE KELLEY SCOTT ’49
sailing in the Thimble Islands and served as Commodore of the Thimble Islands Sailing Club. He loved playing squash at the Heights Casino in Brooklyn, but most of all, he loved spending time with his family BARBARA STONE COOPER ’49
and friends.
passed away on April 14, 2019 in Boscawen, NH. “Barb” was everyone’s mom. She was a gentle, kind-hearted woman. She was GRACE RUSSELL TUCKERMAN ’44 passed away peacefully at Sunrise Assisted Living in Cohasset, MA on February 17, 2020. Grace Russell was born September 28, 1926 in Boston, daughter of the late William Goodwin Russell (former Assistant Headmaster, coach, and teacher at Derby) and Grace Frampton Russell. Apart from a brief period in Michigan during the ’30s, Grace lived her entire life in Cohasset. She graduated from Derby in 1944, and went on to help with the Kindergarten class for several years. On December 11, 1948 she married Edward Morrill Tuckerman ’37, also a lifelong resident of Cohasset. She spent her summers for over 60 years on Lake Temagami, Ontario, home to canoeing, loon calls, and Saturday night square dances. Her Cohasset years were marked
1970s
born in Cambridge, MA in 1934 and grew up in Belmont, Hingham, and Cohasset. She attended Hingham High School and graduated from Cohasset High School, continuing to the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. She has three siblings, Carl Hoss ’50, Joanna Hoss Balcom ’58, and Suzanne Hoss Engle. Barb loved to ride horses as a teenager and worked for Bonwit Teller in Boston in retail. She also modeled for the Bonwit Teller brand. Barb was an avid painter, an accomplished flower designer, a gourmet cook, a connoisseur of white wine, card shark, and longtime employee and manager of the Lake Sunapee Country Club restaurant. She leaves three loving children, nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
MICHAEL CIFRINO ’73, of Hingham, died on April 30, 2020. Born in Boston, he was brought up in Cohasset. He graduated in 1976 from Cohasset High School before receiving his Bachelor’s degree from St. Michael’s College, and concluding his education at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design. Michael adored his family and would be the first to help anyone in need, never looking for anything in return. He loved golf and was a member of the Sankaty Head Golf Club—his favorite
YEAR IN REVIEW 2019–2020
43
place to be. A landscape architect by trade,
community broadcaster, and housing and
was born on November 14, 1919, in Newark,
Michael also had an amazing talent for
tenant organizer. Tom worked for more than
NJ, the son of teachers. He attended public
event planning. He ran his own businesses,
25 years in the nonprofit world, including
schools in Trenton, NJ, before earning a
where his awe inspiring creative ability
the past 20 years in New York City and for
BA at Princeton, a Bachelor of Laws from
shined bright. Michael was a baseball coach
four years prior in Knoxville, Tennessee as
Yale Law School, and a Masters in Taxation
for his son’s team in Hingham, where he
an organizer journalist. He worked at the
from NYU. In 1945, Winthrop married
played an integral role in the lives of many.
Community Service Society of New York
Janet Gerdes, whom he met while they both
He was also involved in kids hockey, though
(an advocacy group for low-income New
attended Yale Law. They shared a love of
he was the first to admit that he couldn’t
Yorkers), a job he took after many years
jazz, musical theatre, and supported causes
skate backwards. Michael was a sincere and
of working as a community organizer for
that promoted women’s and civil rights. He
caring man who will be greatly missed by all
NY State Tenants and Neighbors, where
was predeceased by Janet in 2004. In 2006,
who knew him. Michael is survived by his
he still served as an active board member.
he married Marguerite Turner and moved
beloved wife of 32 years, Frances (Rooney)
As an adjunct faculty member from
to Birmingham, AL where he remained
Cifrino, of Hingham. Cherished father of
2014–2018 in the Barnard-Columbia Urban
happily married until Marguerite’s death in
Charlie Cifrino ’06 and his wife Meghan of
Studies program, Tom was a beloved and
2011. Winthrop generously supported many
Boston, Clare Cifrino ’09 of Clemson, SC,
supportive colleague and a pillar of the
worthwhile institutions and organizations,
and Aidan Cifrino ’14 of Hingham. Loving
Barnard Contingent Faculty Union. He
including Derby (where he served as
brother of Mary Ellen McNamara ’66 and
was also a doctoral candidate in political
a Trustee from 1957–1970), the Island
her husband Marty of Ellicott City, MD,
science at the City University of New York
Institute, the Maine Coast Heritage Trust,
James P. Cifrino, Jr. ’65 and his wife Olivia
Graduate Center. His engaged scholarship
the Jackson Laboratory, and the National
of Okatie, SC, Thomas M. Cifrino ’68 and
and extensive writing on affordable
Humanities Center, among others. A skilled
his late wife Jane of Cohasset, David A.
housing policy contributed to improving
fundraiser, Winthrop was recognized by
Cifrino ’69 and his wife Sheryl of Cohasset,
the lives of many New Yorkers. In Hilary’s
Princeton with several development awards
Anne Cifrino ’71 of Duxbury, Steven
words, “Tom’s brilliant mind and generous
over five decades as he set records for capital
Cifrino ’74 and his wife Patricia of Cohasset,
heart made him one of the most effective
campaigns and class giving, even as recently
and Amy Rooney and her husband William
and respected experts and advocates for
as 2016 (75th reunion class). Upon hearing
of Charlotte, NC. Also survived by many
affordable housing for all New Yorkers,
of his death, the Princeton development
loving nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
and more broadly for justice, peace and the
office wrote that “Win Short ’41 ranks as one
protection of the beautiful yet imperiled
of Princeton’s great alumni leaders” and his
planet, with New York its greatest
service was “characterized by his gracious,
global city.”
patient and low-key manner. People always returned Win’s calls.” Winthrop loved the Maine coast, where he shared his summer home on the Mount Desert Island shore of Blue Hill Bay with family and friends. He particularly liked sailing, gardening, reading, and his daily early-morning
THOMAS J. WATERS III ’79 died April
exercise routine, but most
4, 2020 at age 56 from what was presumed
of all loved to see the joy that loved
to be COVID-19. He leaves his wife of
ones took in the beautiful setting and
34 years, Hilary Callahan, and their son, Daniel. Tom was born in New York City and grew up in Massachusetts where he was a faculty kid of the Derby’s headmaster Tom Waters (deceased in 2014) and art teacher and sculptor Ronny Waters, who resides in Charlottesville, Virginia, a mile away from Tom’s brother, Nick ’81, sister-in-law Jane, and nephew Leo. A graduate of Derby, Milton Academy, then Yale University, Tom spent twenty years as a writer, editor, 44
DERBY ACADEMY
many outdoor activities. Winthrop was FORMER TRUSTEE WINTHROP
predeceased by a son, John Gerdes
ALLEN SHORT, died on February 6, 2020
Short ’63, and his brother. He is survived
at 100 years old. Winthrop was president of
by three sons: Winthrop Jr. ’61 and Jane
the Knapp Shoes from the ’60s through the
Reeb Short, Andrew Short ’65 and
’80s. He was a charter trustee of Princeton
Andrea Vizoso, and David ’67 and Esther
University from 1972–1982 and served on
Yazwinski Short; six grandchildren, seven
the board of directors of Liberty Mutual
great-grandchildren and two godchildren.
Insurance, the McCarter Theatre, and the Princeton Blairstown Centers. Winthrop
MIND // HEART “IMPROVE BOTH MIND AND
HEART” is woven into every fiber
of the Derby experience—from the loving partnerships between Grade 8 and Pre-K during thrilling science experiments, to the friendly wave of math wiz, Zero the Hero.
56 burditt avenue hingham, ma 02043 address service requested
Parents: If this issue is addressed to a son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Alumni Office of the updated mailing address by contacting us at alums@derbyacademy.org