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THE GILL ST. BERNARD’S SCHOOL MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2026

A Sense of this Place Discoveries from my first year Page 4

The Magazine of Gill St. Bernard’s School

FEATURE A Sense of this Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 FEATURE Reading Buddies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 ON THE STAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 HISTORY MADE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 2025-2026 CHAMPIONSHIPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 CHAIRS OF EXCELLENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 RETIREES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 NEW TRUSTEES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

COMMUNITY

CONTENTS

FROM OUR

TABLE OF

gsbschool

Students gathered for “Mr. Armstrong Day“ to celebrate Lower and Middle School Director Kyle Armstrong. After 12 years with GSB, he's bound for Virginia to serve as the Head of School for Green Hedges School. How lucky they are to have him next! Thank you for everything, and please come visit soon.

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View all comments As you begin a new chapter, we would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for everything you have done. We wish you and your family happiness, good health, and continued success in all your future endeavors. May the future bring you many new opportunities, wonderful experiences, and much joy. ❤ - Shirley Shen P'29 via Instagram The whole family is incredible! we will miss you all but your new school is lucky to have you! 💙

Congratulations to Lower School Science Teacher Lynn Prosen for being selected for the STEM Pioneers Teacher Corps! The Penn State College of Education’s Center for Science and the Schools (CSATS) has announced the 27 members selected for the STEM Pioneers Teacher Corps, a program made possible by a $5 million grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). A rigorous, multi-step process selected educators who have demonstrated excellence in STEM teaching, a commitment to professional growth, and the potential to serve as leaders in elementary STEM education within their schools, districts, and communities.

View all comments Congratulations Ms. Prosen! How lucky are we to have such brilliant minds teaching our babies! - Tyneisha Gibbs P'34 via Instagram

- Sacha Marcucci P'26 '29 '32 via Instagram

REUNION & ALUMNI WEEKEND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 GSB PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Anabel Hercules ’30 volunteering in the Home Winds Farm garden during GSB’s third annual Day of Gratitude and Service Gill St. Bernard’s School P.O. Box 604, St. Bernards Road Gladstone, NJ 07934-0604 908-234-1611 • gsbschool.org Produced by Gill St. Bernard’s School Design by Vision Creative Group

After 36 years and a record-setting 610 wins, Gill St. Bernard’s Boys’ Soccer Head Coach Tony Bednarsky has announced his retirement from coaching. Bednarsky concludes his legendary career as the 8th winningest coach in NJ history, and he'll continue to teach middle school history.

ON THE FARM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 WEDDINGS & BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

View all comments

IN MEMORIUM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Honestly, Tony Bednarsky had no quit in him. I'm confident he could do another 15 years. - Rob Warren ’97 via Facebook

FROM THE ALUMNI DIRECTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

One of the most important and influential coaches of my lifetime. Congratulations on an amazing coaching career. - Pete Walsh ’97 via Facebook Congratulations Tony. Mary and I are so proud to call you our friend. So glad both of our children played for you.

Board of Trustees 2025-2026 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Keisha Audain-Pressley P’25 Dr. Roshni Bhakta P’27 Susan Brooks P’31 ’35 ’38 Laura Brucker P’22 ’23 John Coates P’26 ’27 Rajiv De Silva P’21 ’25 Dr. Delvin Dinkins, ex officio Tom Fischer P’16 Dr. Andrea Freeman ’95 Liz Fucci P’17 Michael Golden P’99 ’02 GP’37 Elizabeth Gustafson P’20 ’22 Matthew Harding ’81 Dr. Haresh Kane P’29 ’34 Jeff Lager ’86

BOARD OF VISITORS Brenda Liberti P’24 ’26 Gia Dunn P’12 ’14 ’16 Edmond Moriarty III P’11 ’14 ’16 ’22 Brandon Clark P’02 ’06 Sam Corliss Emily Maillet Kellogg P’29 Richard Emmit P’02 Elizabeth Nametz P’03 ’09 Michael Golden P’99 ’02 GP’37 Erin Mayo Nelson Ferreira P’12 ’14 Ellen Nardoni The Hon. Thomas H. Kean Chris Miller P’28 ’31 Donald Fuentes P’14 ’16 James O’Connor P’21 ’21 Edward E. Matthews Sandi Niccolai P’16 Judy Fulton Higby ’65 Robert O’Leary P’11 Marianne Saladino P’14 ’16 John Howard P’17 ’21 Steven Polachi P’08 ’11 ’14 Antoinette Segreto P’32 ’32 Caroline Jones ’78 John Raymonds P’21 Tim Starkey P’32 Adrienne Kirby P’09 ’13 Robert Sameth, Jr. ’89 Rose Kirk P’18 Vlad Torgovnik P’16 ’21 ’26 HONORARY TRUSTEES Michael Mandelbaum Janine Udoff P’16 ’17 ’21 ’23 Lee Amoroso P’11 ’13 ’19 Richard Markham P’11 ’12 Michael Weinstein ’87 Brandon Clark P’02 ’06 Douglas L. Matthews P’16 ’18 ’24 Karen Young P’21 ’21 ’25 Bill Conger P’03 Mark Mazzatta P’21 ’23 Sam Corliss Mary McNamara Marcella Criscola P’25 ‘26 ‘29 Linda Moore Ann Drzik P’17

- Michael Golden P'99 GP'37 via Facebook Great coach, better dad! Congrats pops - Steve Bednarsky '17 via Instagram As one of your first GSB middle school students (and Prep B players), I still remember your marbles as commodities class — very relevant today! - Court Clayton '95 via Instagram

Questions? Comments? Favorite memories?

Send an email (magazine@gsbschool.org) or write a letter (Attn: GSB Magazine, P.O. Box 604, St. Bernards Rd, Gladstone, NJ 07934), and follow us on social media (@gsbschool).

We want to hear from you!

Who are you most proud of? Think about a classmate or community member that inspires you or makes you proud to be a GSB alumni and tell us about them.

The Magazine of Gill St. Bernard’s School

COMMUNITY

CONTENTS

FROM OUR

TABLE OF

gsbschool

💙⚔

View all comments Congratulations Ms. Prosen! How lucky are we to have such brilliant minds teaching our babies! - Tyneisha Gibbs P'34 via Instagram

- Sacha Marcucci P'26 '29 '32 via Instagram

REUNION & ALUMNI WEEKEND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 GSB PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

ON THE FARM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 WEDDINGS & BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

View all comments

IN MEMORIUM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Honestly, Tony Bednarsky had no quit in him. I'm confident he could do another 15 years. - Rob Warren ’97 via Facebook

FROM THE ALUMNI DIRECTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Questions? Comments? Favorite memories?

Send an email (magazine@gsbschool.org) or write a letter (Attn: GSB Magazine, P.O. Box 604, St. Bernards Rd, Gladstone, NJ 07934), and follow us on social media (@gsbschool).

We want to hear from you!

Who are you most proud of? Think about a classmate or community member that inspires you or makes you proud to be a GSB alumni and tell us about them.

COMMENCEMENT and CLOSING EXERCISES

For more photos, the full list of awards, and the video recordings, scan the QR code or visit gsbschool.org/commencement-2026 28

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COMMENCEMENT and CLOSING EXERCISES

For more photos, the full list of awards, and the video recordings, scan the QR code or visit gsbschool.org/commencement-2026 28

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Sense Place

of this

Discoveries from my first year By Head of School Dr. Delvin Dinkins

hen I arrived at Gill St. Bernard's last summer, I came eager to learn. Every school has a mission. Every school has traditions. Every school has a story it tells about itself. But what I have learned over the course of my first year is that the most important things about a school are rarely found in websites, viewbooks, strategic plans, or speeches. They are discovered through experience. As I reflect on my first year as Head of School, four discoveries stand out. Together, they have helped me better understand what makes this place so remarkable.

Relationships Here Drive Growth Before arriving at GSB, I knew the school was warm and welcoming. What I did not fully appreciate was how deeply relationships here are connected to challenge, growth, and learning. Throughout the fall, I met regularly with groups of seniors during advisory and break periods. We gathered in the Head of School residence and talked about favorite classes, influential teachers, friendships, challenges, and moments that shaped them. When students reflected on the experiences that mattered most, they often spoke about teachers who pushed them to think more deeply, revise their work, take intellectual risks, or pursue a higher standard than they thought possible. What struck me most was that they rarely separated the people from the learning. The relationships mattered because they fueled growth. Throughout the year, I encountered adults who knew students deeply, not only how they were performing academically, but how they were developing as people. I watched teachers challenge students while simultaneously creating the trust necessary for students to take risks, make mistakes, persevere, and grow. I heard the same theme echoed by alumni, years after they had graduated. Many spoke fondly of experiences shaped by former Head of School Jack Wright´s vision of learning beyond the classroom, from interdisciplinary projects and field studies to The Unit Plan itself. But what they remembered most vividly were the adults who believed in them, pushed them, and helped them discover what they were capable of becoming. I arrived expecting strong relationships. What I discovered was something more powerful: relationships that drive growth.

Left: Making pancakes for seventh grade students in the Kitchen Discovery Lab (May 2026). Right: A signature scooter ride into the Annual Auction Gala (November 2025).

Sense Place

of this

Discoveries from my first year By Head of School Dr. Delvin Dinkins

Left: Making pancakes for seventh grade students in the Kitchen Discovery Lab (May 2026). Right: A signature scooter ride into the Annual Auction Gala (November 2025).

Students Here Want to Be Challenged One of the most persistent myths in education is that students want things to be easier. GSB proves otherwise. Over and over again, I encountered students eager for challenge, deeper understanding, and meaningful work. I walked into a Middle School English classroom and found students eager to tell me about books they were reading that had not been assigned. They were recommendations from teachers and friends, books students chose because their curiosity had been sparked and they wanted to keep reading. I watched Lower School students enthusiastically engage in a mathematics activity that transformed problem-solving into a spirited competition. One of my favorite examples of their ambitious curiosity came from a first grade student studying the American Goldfinch. After hearing more from his teacher, he decided to initiate additional research on the Northern Cardinal simply because birds had become so interesting. That kind of intellectual curiosity cannot be mandated. It must be cultivated. It emerges when students encounter

teachers who know them well, expect much of them, and make learning worth pursuing. When challenge is paired with encouragement and learning feels meaningful, students often seek more of it, not less. The same spirit appears beyond the classroom. I have seen it on our stages, athletic fields, in service initiatives, leadership efforts, entrepreneurial projects, and countless moments where students willingly stretched themselves in pursuit of something meaningful. Students here are ambitious. They work hard. They care deeply about doing things well.

GSB Refuses Artificial Trade-offs Many conversations about education are framed as trade-offs. Schools are often described as academically rigorous or nurturing. Challenging or supportive. Ambitious or balanced. Yet the more time I spent within our community the more convinced I became that these are artificial trade-offs. The school´s greatest strength is not that it excels in one of these areas. It is that it refuses to separate them.

Dr. Dinkins’ wife (Davirah Dinkins), mother (Wanda Stanback), and son (DJ Dinkins), cheer him on during his investiture (September 2025).

Here, challenge sits alongside balance. When people ask me what makes GSB different, I often find myself returning to the same answer: It is a place where students are ambitious and well-adjusted, where they pursue excellence without becoming one-dimensional, and where they care about one another as much as they care about achievement. In a culture that often presents achievement and well-being as competing priorities, Gill St. Bernard´s demonstrates that both are possible.

Culture Reveals I tself in Unscripted Moments A few months ago, a sprinkler head unexpectedly broke in Hockenbury Hall, home to much of our Upper School. Water flowed through multiple floors of the building. Alarms sounded. Classrooms and common spaces across three floors were flooded. What could have become a chaotic and frustrating day became something else entirely.

Dr. Dinkins welcomes Patrick ’32 from the car line on the first day of school (September 2025). Left to right: Halloween Parade, October 2025; Bingo Night, January 2026; Day of Gratitude and Service, April 2026; Basketball State Finals, March 2026. 6

Dr. Dinkins’ wife (Davirah Dinkins), mother (Wanda Stanback), and son (DJ Dinkins), cheer him on during his investiture (September 2025).

Facilities responded immediately. Faculty helped clear classrooms and redirect students. Staff coordinated logistics and communication. Wet vacs appeared alongside helping hands. Even students rolled up their sleeves and pitched in wherever they were needed, moving furniture, carrying materials, and helping restore spaces. No one waited to be asked. There was no panic. No blame. Just steady hands and shared purpose. By the next day, classrooms had been relocated, damaged spaces had been cleaned, and learning continued. Moments like these remind us that a school is not simply buildings or programs. It is people. It is relationships. It is culture revealed in unscripted moments. The strongest aspects of a school´s culture often appear when no one is performing for an audience, following a script, or responding to a formal expectation. They emerge in ordinary acts of generosity, responsibility, resilience, and care.

As I look back on my first year, I find myself returning to a simple conviction. The strength of GSB is not found in any single program, tradition, building, or accomplishment. It is found in the experience we create for young people every day. Students here are known. Learning here is purposeful. Relationships here drive growth. After a year of listening and learning, I am more convinced than ever that the future of education does not belong to schools that choose between ambition and humanity. It belongs to schools that understand they need one another. At its best, that is what Gill St. Bernard´s demonstrates every day.

Dr. Delvin Dinkins joined Gill St. Bernard’s on July 1, 2025, as the sixth Head of School post-merger. His career spans roles in both public and private education. Dinkins earned both a BA in English and a Secondary Teacher Certification from Swarthmore College where he was the co-captain of the track and field team. He has an MA in Educational Studies from the University of Michigan and an EdD in Educational & Organizational Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania.

Again and again this year, I have seen evidence of those qualities throughout our community. When Hockenbury was suddenly disrupted, people throughout the community simply stepped forward. They saw what needed to be done and did it. That response told me as much about Gill St. Bernard´s as any strategic plan, campus tour, or formal presentation ever could. What makes GSB distinctive is not any single one of these qualities. It is the combination: high aspirations and deep relationships, intellectual challenge and genuine belonging, purposeful learning and joyful engagement, achievement and well-being. That combination is increasingly rare. And it is something more people should know about.

“I was raised to believe that success is never solitary, that it is built on the labor, care, and belief of those who surround you. My mother, my wife, my family, family friends, neighbors, and teachers observed something in me and chose to nurture it. They celebrated every milestone, no matter how small, and cheered me on.” Watch Dr. Dinkins’ full Investiture speech, where he reflects on his journey from a working-class upbringing to educational leadership.

“What kind of community do we want to build together? I envision a place where every student has the courage to explore their full potential, the integrity to live truthfully, and the respect to honor one another’s journey. A place where you thrive as curious, committed thinkers who lead with compassion, striving for excellence not just for yourselves but for the good of the world. A place where you feel a deep sense of belonging and emerge as leaders determined to leave the world better than you found it.” Read Dr. Dinkins’ full 2025 Convocation remarks about balancing risk, choosing human curiosity, and boldly taking the leap into a new school year.

“A good education should not harden you into certainty. It should make you more curious, more thoughtful, and more capable of listening, learning, and reconsidering. As you encounter new people and new ideas, remain open enough to change your mind when wisdom requires it.”

Watch Dr. Dinkins address our newest alumni, the Class of 2026. Above: Dr. Dinkins joins the Lower School for Field Day 2025, one month before officially starting as Head of School (June 2025). Left: Sixth grade student Violet ’32 was named “Head of School for the Day” and walks with Dr. Dinkins as they leave Nardelli (May 2025).

READING BUDDIES

In Mo Willems’ Elephant & Piggie, the main characters couldn’t be more different. Gerald, the elephant, towers over Piggie. They have opposite personalities, yet these two anthropomorphic animals are the best of friends – navigating life’s problems together while sharing the range of emotions that come with each challenge. “Looking back now, that could have been a cute representation of me and Olivia,” said Ariana Isusi ’27.

As the original first grade "Little Buddies" graduate, a 12-year legacy of cross-divisional friendship comes full circle

Eleven years ago, a pint-sized version of Isusi partnered with then-Upper School student Olivia “Liv” Wilson ’17 as part of a new cross-divisional program. It aimed to pair first graders with high school students to promote increased literacy and relationship building across age groups.

By Tim O’Bryhim

Reading Buddies is a program inspired by the PBS animated TV show Martha Speaks. Kristen Armstrong, then an English teacher for international students, first heard about it a year earlier when a colleague returned from a professional conference with information about the program. The spark was lit, and Armstrong was all-in. “It was a way to have our students who were learning English practice their speaking skills in a low-pressure environment. We did it two different times that year, and it was a big success,” Armstrong said. “So that following year when I took on the role of librarian, we decided to expand it to a larger club.” The Martha Speaks series provided a curriculum to go along with the program. It had 10 sessions, each with a structured introduction. The buddies would read the book together, participate in a coloring activity, and complete a Reading Buddies journal. Two first-grade classes participated in the inaugural cohort, spring of 2015.

Mason ’37

Armstrong closely followed the formal framework provided at first, but it evolved over time. What didn’t change was the Little Buddies’ enthusiasm for the program. Near the beginning of that first year, Armstrong remembers one Little Buddy going to her mother and insisting she needed a cell phone. Mom: “You’re in first grade, you aren’t getting a cell phone.” First Grader: “Well, how else am I going to stay in touch with my buddy?” “So, in just two sessions they were able to form real connections,” Armstrong said. Isusi, now in the 11th grade and one of the Upper School Reading Buddies leaders, remembers her entire first grade class looked forward to the program. She loved every book

Left Page: Big Buddy Ariana Isusi ’27 with Little Buddy Jackie ’36 in February 2025. Left: Big Buddy Taahir Jones ’26 with Little Buddy Brennyn ’36 in February 2025.

READING BUDDIES

As the original first grade "Little Buddies" graduate, a 12-year legacy of cross-divisional friendship comes full circle

By Tim O’Bryhim

Mason ’37

Left Page: Big Buddy Ariana Isusi ’27 with Little Buddy Jackie ’36 in February 2025. Left: Big Buddy Taahir Jones ’26 with Little Buddy Brennyn ’36 in February 2025.

In the fall of 2015, her junior year, she took the plunge and joined as a Big Buddy. “I remember thinking that it was so cute seeing all the little first graders.” Wilson was not a “lifer” like some of the other Upper School students – she had not experienced the GSB Lower or Middle Schools as a student. Now she had her chance. “It was a nice opportunity to immerse myself,” she said. On their first day as Reading Buddies, Isusi and Wilson’s bond was immediate.

Ariana Isusi ’27 (left) and Olivia “Liv” Wilson ’17 (right) in April 2016.

and every activity. But the best part was having an older girl like Olivia Wilson to connect with. “‘I can’t wait to be big. I can’t wait to be just like her,’” she remembers thinking at the time. Armstrong knew that she needed to build social capital to get buy-in from the high schoolers. Teaching the ninth grade seminar class and the English class for international students helped her build rapport, but forming connections outside of class would fully tap into the spirit of GSB. Coaching girls’ soccer and moving to the library position did just that. “I loved Kristen [Armstrong], and I was a library kid. I spent all my free time in the library with my friends,” Wilson said.

“I am a very bubbly, outgoing personality myself… I remember her being very excited… Ariana was just a ball of energy and excited to get going. I remember clicking with her off the bat,” Wilson said.

The program endured, instilling Reading Buddy experiences for Lower and Upper School students over a 12-year period. Around 24 to 30 Little Buddies participate annually. Earlier this year, roughly 100 upper schoolers signed up at the activities fair. Although the final list settled to something more manageable. “Some sign up because there is candy on the table, some because their friends do it and some don’t realize what their schedule is like,” Armstrong said.

“Seeing high school students connect in a genuine way with first graders made me think ‘we are onto something here,’” Armstrong said.

But every year, a core group of Upper School students dedicate themselves to participating regularly and building a bond with a Little Buddy. Armstrong finds the program serves not just as a break from classes during a school day – which has value in and of itself – but also allows students to reconnect with their younger selves. They get to revisit picture books they once loved. They may even run into teachers from their Lower School days.

Today, Wilson is working towards a master’s degree in teaching at the University of Toronto – Reading Buddies pushed her in that direction.

Armstrong makes sure to prepare the Upper School students for their duties by providing a 30-minute training session about how to interact with and draw out their Little Buddies.

That first year, when Armstrong witnessed the interactions between the Little and Big Buddies, she knew the program needed to become a permanent fixture at GSB.

The training session covers the basics: don’t read too quickly or in a monotone voice; make sure you show your Little Buddy the pictures; and don’t race through the book. “Some Little Buddies will talk your ear off, and some will be more reticent. How do you engage them? What kind of questions can you ask them?” Armstrong said. The 25-minute-long meetings are once a month on Wednesday during the mid-morning break. The Upper School students meet in the library, where Armstrong hands out sticky notes so everyone knows who their Little Buddy will be that day. This year, the majority of Little Buddies stayed with the same Big Buddy, building their relationship all year long. But there are always temporary buddies available so that no one is left solo. Many people can imagine, or maybe have experienced, knucklehead behavior from a 16- or 17-year-old. Armstrong said that some of the most challenging high school students are the most amazing Big Buddies. “It gives them a place to show their human side, which is always helpful for me as a teacher… someone is being kind of a challenge, but oh my gosh, he’s being such a great Reading Buddy. It helps me to think about that when they are asking to hacky sack in the library,” Armstrong said, laughing.

Kristen Armstrong P’21 ’29 ’36 with GSB Lifers who were in the original Reading Buddies cohort as first graders, now ready to graduate as seniors: Annabelle Beekman ’26, Lucian Corrado ’26, Cecilia Criscola ’26, Davis Herr ’26, John “Graedy” Jacobson ’26, Oliver Litchfield ’26, Gurnoor Pakka ’26, Neil Procaccino ’26, Caitlin Vollrath ’26, Aryanna Wasser ’26.

Ariana Isusi ’27 (left) and Olivia “Liv” Wilson ’17 (right) in April 2016.

“Seeing high school students connect in a genuine way with first graders made me think ‘we are onto something here,’” Armstrong said.

Today, Wilson is working towards a master’s degree in teaching at the University of Toronto – Reading Buddies pushed her in that direction.

Armstrong makes sure to prepare the Upper School students for their duties by providing a 30-minute training session about how to interact with and draw out their Little Buddies.

That first year, when Armstrong witnessed the interactions between the Little and Big Buddies, she knew the program needed to become a permanent fixture at GSB.

Left: Big Buddy Syd Armstrong ’29 with Little Buddy Emmet ’38 in December 2025. Below: Jackson Collins ’27 with Theodore ’36.

Reading Buddies attracts volunteers with a wide range of backgrounds and interests. Armstrong’s daughter Syd Armstrong ’29, a ninth grader at GSB, experienced Reading Buddies as a Little. But she hesitated when her mom asked whether she wanted to be a Big Buddy this year. Having dyslexia sometimes made Syd hesitant to read aloud in class. But when a Big Buddy canceled at the last minute during the first session, Armstrong implored her to help out. “She did and got partnered up with this little boy named Emmett ’38, and they had such a great time. Now, when I send the email, she’s literally the first person to respond every time. They’ve created a nice relationship, and it has improved her confidence,” Armstrong said. Jackson Collins ’27, a soccer player and deeply engaged student on campus, has made a significant impact on the reading confidence of first grader Mason ’37. Despite his very busy schedule with activities, clubs, and soccer, Collins makes time for Mason. “I’ll say, ‘Hey Jackson, Reading Buddies is this week.’ Sometimes he’ll hesitate and say, ‘Ooh, I have a test.’ But literally every time, he says, ‘but you know what, I’m going to be there,’” Armstrong said. Armstrong believes the program serves an important purpose for kids who no longer like to read. “For the kids in high school who say, ‘I hate reading,’ it reminds them they used to enjoy reading. Whether it was a picture book or the Diary of a Wimpy Kid, I hope it is something that reminds high school students of a love of reading that has been buried over the years,” Armstrong said. 14

Left: Graedy Jacobson as a senior in 2026, reading fingerprints in Upper School Forensics. Above: Jacobson ’26 (left) as a first grader, reading with his Big Buddy Julius Stoma ’16 (right) in 2015 in the first cohort of Reading Buddies. Stoma recently pursued a career change and was teaching in Mongolia last fall.

Graedy Jacobson ’26, one of the original first grade Little Buddies, cherishes those moments now that he’s preparing to graduate. “Everybody was really excited about it. It was a fun thing to be in first grade and hang out with high schoolers,” he said. Isusi echoed that excitement. “At Gill, excellence is celebrated. I think everyone loves the program. Every single type of student does it, and they all build meaningful connections,” she said. When she had the opportunity to become a Big Buddy in ninth grade, she enthusiastically made that leap. Little Buddies eventually transforming into a Big Buddy is a testament to the strength and joy of the program. For two years Isusi had the same Little Buddy: Jackie ’36. But this year she wanted to do more. So, she asked Armstrong if she could take on more of a leadership role. Armstrong’s answer was an unqualified “yes.” The enthusiasm of a young Isusi has transformed from the excitement of a little girl to connect with a mentor, to the excitement of a young woman seeking to pass on that experience to a new generation of little girls. Though the development of reading skills is an important component, for Isusi, 90% of Reading Buddies is about the relationship. “We do read the books, but a lot of time we’re just laughing about what’s happening in the books… I think the book is a great way to have something to talk about. It’s about building the connection,” Isusi said. The program is 12 years strong, continuing to evolve with no sign of slowing down. Little Buddies and Big Buddies will continue to learn about friendship and life together… just like a certain elephant and piggie. 

Left: Big Buddy Syd Armstrong ’29 with Little Buddy Emmet ’38 in December 2025. Below: Jackson Collins ’27 with Theodore ’36.

Founders’ Day 2026 1,900

minutes of giving: April 23-24

More than

560 gifts

More than

230K raised

So grateful to GSB and the wonderful memories over the past 20 years! - Sharon Macak P’20 ’22 ’25 ’27

ime or my t f l u f e t Gra d to nd prou a B S at G e. s futur it t r o p p su 4 Wang ’2 - Calvin

April 25, 2026 Dear GSB Community,

erienced and reflection on what we exp want to express my gratitude I y, g in a Da atin rs’ min nde cul Fou and ing on low Fol ing Wednesday afterno inn beg ng, givi of s ute min together over 1,900 munity. remarkable expression of com 0, linking our history honor our founding year, 190 to sen cho ly rate ibe del e Those 1,900 minutes wer life. this moment in our school’s to the energy and purpose of o we are at ng but a day that reflected wh was not simply a day of givi provided pus eers cam ss unt vol acro ent ed Par old . unf care at Wh ilies with pride and fam ed com wel s ent . stud day g, the ard throughout our best. In the mornin ping carry the experience forw hel , pus cam on t por sup us steady, genero individual our donors. More than 560 extraordinary generosity of re than $230,000 mo ed rais — nds frie At the center of it all was the stees, past parents, and tru , staff lty, facu i, signals belief in mn It alu nt. s, donors — parent collective commitme nt reflects the community’s me ieve ach sible. s pos Thi d. kes ma Fun B B for the GS tion to what GS n, and a deep sense of connec ctio dire its in st tru , ool sch this pace matching challenge set the of Trustees, whose $50,000 rd Boa the to own l ir tefu the t gra me lly We are especia hours, faculty and staff ocked. Within the first few community. We for the day and was fully unl m that carried through the ntu me mo y earl h , blis esta g pin hel challenges throughout the day participation challenge, munity who issued additional com and our y of ntr ers cou mb the me ss ny also thank the ma momentum. Alumni acro and strengthening collective each expanding participation aningful and generous ways. me in B uring connection to GS end ir the ed ress exp ond bey for SpringFest on a lty, staff, and trustees gather facu s, ent er ice, par s, ent stud ng And then, seei celebrating together over wat — cheering on our teams and on ool alive rno sch a afte is ny this sun t ee, tha egr er s-d ind 70-plu ng close. It was a rem fitti a was — s dog hot and cotton candy, burgers, nection. with purpose, pride, and con out our community: was a shared energy through re The . felt day the how ing is not incidental. It is What stood out most was sense of belonging. That feel e uin gen a in ed und gro joyful, generous, and together. something we are building With gratitude and pride,

Delvin Dinkins Head of School

Supporting G SB because o f all the wonderf ul memories and especially th is year to ho nor our new Head of School, Dr. D inkins! -Lee (Emilie ) Amoroso P ’11 ’13 ’19

In honor of all the teach ers that make GSB a spec ial place, Go Knights! - Morgan Opalenski P

’37 ’39 ’40

Proud to have been sh many amazing facu aped by so lty experiences at GSB. and - Jaime Messina G oodrich ’01

nd , faculty a ace s r e h c a e t to the ecial pl Thank you made Gill such a sp thlete. ho nt a coaches w o grow as a stude t n for our so arpati P'24

Sc - Angelo

Proud to su pport GSB! I am a teach er b of my GSB te ecause achers! Thank you! - Jennison L ee ’94

hmidt. Thanks to In honor of Peter Sc many amazing Peter Schmidt and so me into a educators for building better person! - Timothy Erday ’90

Founders’ Day 2026 1,900

minutes of giving: April 23-24

More than

560 gifts

More than

230K raised

So grateful to GSB and the wonderful memories over the past 20 years! - Sharon Macak P’20 ’22 ’25 ’27

ime or my t f l u f e t Gra d to nd prou a B S at G e. s futur it t r o p p su 4 Wang ’2 - Calvin

April 25, 2026 Dear GSB Community,

Delvin Dinkins Head of School

Supporting G SB because o f all the wonderf ul memories and especially th is year to ho nor our new Head of School, Dr. D inkins! -Lee (Emilie ) Amoroso P ’11 ’13 ’19

In honor of all the teach ers that make GSB a spec ial place, Go Knights! - Morgan Opalenski P

’37 ’39 ’40

Proud to have been sh many amazing facu aped by so lty experiences at GSB. and - Jaime Messina G oodrich ’01

nd , faculty a ace s r e h c a e t to the ecial pl Thank you made Gill such a sp thlete. ho nt a coaches w o grow as a stude t n for our so arpati P'24

Sc - Angelo

Proud to su pport GSB! I am a teach er b of my GSB te ecause achers! Thank you! - Jennison L ee ’94

hmidt. Thanks to In honor of Peter Sc many amazing Peter Schmidt and so me into a educators for building better person! - Timothy Erday ’90

ON THE

STAGE

Upper School

Noises Off The 18th Annual Foxy Theater Awards, sponsored by Montclair State University

Nominations:

Outstanding Achievement in Contemporary Costume Design for a Play

Paul H. Canada Outstanding Achievement in Scenic Design for a Play

Paul H. Canada Outstanding Performance by a Featured Ensemble Actor

John Besjak ’26 as Fredrick Fellow Outstanding Achievement by an Acting Ensemble in a Comprehensive Play

Entire Cast Outstanding Production of a Comprehensive Play

Gill St. Bernard’s Noises Off

Dracula, the Musical Paper Mill Playhouse 31st Annual Rising Star Awards

Winners:

Outstanding Achievement in Costume Design

Paul H. Canada Outstanding Achievement in Hair & Makeup Design

Paul H. Canada

Nomination:

Outstanding Performance in a Female-Identified Supporting Role

ulianne Witte ’26 as J “Madam Renfield” 18

ON THE

STAGE

Upper School

Noises Off The 18th Annual Foxy Theater Awards, sponsored by Montclair State University

Nominations:

Outstanding Achievement in Contemporary Costume Design for a Play

Paul H. Canada Outstanding Achievement in Scenic Design for a Play

Paul H. Canada Outstanding Performance by a Featured Ensemble Actor

John Besjak ’26 as Fredrick Fellow Outstanding Achievement by an Acting Ensemble in a Comprehensive Play

Entire Cast Outstanding Production of a Comprehensive Play

Gill St. Bernard’s Noises Off

Dracula, the Musical Paper Mill Playhouse 31st Annual Rising Star Awards

Winners:

Outstanding Achievement in Costume Design

Paul H. Canada Outstanding Achievement in Hair & Makeup Design

Paul H. Canada

Nomination:

Outstanding Performance in a Female-Identified Supporting Role

ulianne Witte ’26 as J “Madam Renfield” 18

ON THE

STAGE

Lower School

Middle School

From The Nutcracker to Mean Girls, and every concert in between, visit gsbschool.org/news for performance details and photo galleries.

ON THE

STAGE

Lower School

Middle School

From The Nutcracker to Mean Girls, and every concert in between, visit gsbschool.org/news for performance details and photo galleries.

HISTORY

MADE

Dorsett Mulcahy ’26 delivered a historic season of his own, earning Skyland Conference Player of the Year honors and First Team All-State recognition. But when the final seconds ticked away at Rutgers, it was the unified school spirit that left the lasting memory. “When the student section started chanting ‘thank you seniors,’ that’s when it really hit me,” Mulcahy said. “To go out with a win at Rutgers, surrounded by all my guys, was just something special.” Addison “Addy” Platt ’26 closed out one of the most decorated careers in program history. With 1,649 career points and recognition across the state, her legacy is undeniable — but her leadership defined the team’s run. “I’m most proud of how we stayed together no matter what,” Platt said. “There were definitely tough moments, but no one ever quit. I think what makes this program special is the community. It’s something you’re a part of even after you leave.”

Gill St. Bernard’s made history when the girls’ and boys’ basketball teams both competed in the state finals. It was the first time both teams from the same school made the NJSIAA Non-Public B finals since 1985 (St. Anthony’s, Jersey City), and it was only the 8th occurrence out of 252 state finals since 1983 when NJSIAA realigned into 6 groups.

The GSB basketball program earned more than 35 achievements, honors, and accolades during their historic season. Read more at gsbschool.org/history-made

Thanks to the generous support of the Athletics’ Boosters, a spirit bus brought the student section out in full force to cheer on the Knights in Jersey Mike’s Arena at Rutgers University for the historic double-header. The girls’ team entered the finals with a 22–5 record and their first sectional title since 2012 — reestablishing itself among the state’s elite. They battled relentlessly against No. 3 Gloucester Catholic, and despite a disappointing loss they held their heads high and set a new standard for the future. The boys’ team had delivered one of the most dominant seasons in program history, finishing 28–2 and ranking No. 3 in the state. They capped off the night with a victory, bringing home a State Championship title.

HISTORY

MADE

The GSB basketball program earned more than 35 achievements, honors, and accolades during their historic season. Read more at gsbschool.org/history-made

2025-2026

CHAMPIONSHIPS

Boys’ Lacrosse

COACHING HONORS

Somerset County Champions

Girls’ Soccer

Skyland Conference Valley Division Champions Gavin Bucceri ’27

Baseball

Skyland Conference Valley Division Champions

Coach Mark Gnapp (Girls’ Basketball): Courier News Coach of the Year

Girls’ Softball

Golf

NJISAA Prep B Champions

Coach Mergin Sina (Boys’ Basketball): Skyland Conference Coach of the Year; NJBCA Somerset County Coach of the Year

NJISAA Prep B Champions

NJISAA Prep Golf Tournament Low individual score (72): Brendan Binder ’26

Boys’ Basketball

SCHOOL RECORDS

NJSIAA Non-Public B State Champions JSIAA Non-Public B North N Sectional Champions Somerset County Champions kyland Conference Delaware S Division Champions

Gavin Bucceri ’27, Baseball Single Game Strikeouts - 15

Swimming

Brendan Binder ’26

3rd Place Skyland Conference Championships 500 Freestyle: Olivia Laureano ’29

JBCA All-Star Game Selections: N Prosper Sonkoua ’26, Dorsett Mulcahy ’26

5th Place Somerset County Championships 500 Freestyle: Olivia Laureano ’29

Girls’ Basketball

JSIAA Non-Public B North N Sectional Champions

Girls’ Cross Country Skyland Conference Mountain Division Champions

1 0th Place NJSIAA Non-Public B: Sofia Lima ’29 Sofia Lima ’29

eet of Champions M Qualifier: Sofia Lima ’29

Indoor Track and Field

Luc Jansson ’26, Ice Hockey Career Saves - 2001

Outdoor Track and Field

Olivia Laureano ’29, Girls’ Swimming: 100 Breaststroke - 1:15.55 500 Freestyle - 5:25.97

th Place NJSIAA Non-Public B 6 1600m: Sofia Lima ’29

NJBCA All-Star Game Selection: Addy Platt ’26

JISAA Prep B High Jump N Champion: Logan Domsic ’27

Girls’ Fencing

JSIAA State Qualifiers: N Anastasia Chatikhine ’26 (Epee) and Adrina Ziaee ’29 (Foil) Somerset County Championships 2nd Place, Women’s Epee: Anastasia Chatikhine ’26 Anastasia Chatikhine ’26

Logan Domsic ’27, Boys’ Track and Field Indoor High Jump - 6'0

5th Place NJSIAA Non-Public B 100m Hurdles: Annalise DeBiase ’29

Coach Tony Bednarsky P’08 ‘10 ‘14 ‘17, Boys’ Soccer Career Wins - 610

6th Place NJSIAA Non-Public B 400m Hurdles: Annalise DeBiase ’29 5th Place NJSIAA Non-Public B 4x100m: Annalise DeBiase ’29, Brooke Jasinkiewicz ’29, Mashari Perry ’28, and Kerissa Woods ’29

Logan Domsic ’27

Girls’ Lacrosse Season Wins - 10 59

2025-2026

CHAMPIONSHIPS

Boys’ Lacrosse

COACHING HONORS

Somerset County Champions

Girls’ Soccer

Skyland Conference Valley Division Champions Gavin Bucceri ’27

Baseball

Skyland Conference Valley Division Champions

Coach Mark Gnapp (Girls’ Basketball): Courier News Coach of the Year

Girls’ Softball

Golf

NJISAA Prep B Champions

Coach Mergin Sina (Boys’ Basketball): Skyland Conference Coach of the Year; NJBCA Somerset County Coach of the Year

NJISAA Prep B Champions

NJISAA Prep Golf Tournament Low individual score (72): Brendan Binder ’26

Boys’ Basketball

SCHOOL RECORDS

NJSIAA Non-Public B State Champions JSIAA Non-Public B North N Sectional Champions Somerset County Champions kyland Conference Delaware S Division Champions

Gavin Bucceri ’27, Baseball Single Game Strikeouts - 15

Swimming

Brendan Binder ’26

3rd Place Skyland Conference Championships 500 Freestyle: Olivia Laureano ’29

JBCA All-Star Game Selections: N Prosper Sonkoua ’26, Dorsett Mulcahy ’26

5th Place Somerset County Championships 500 Freestyle: Olivia Laureano ’29

Girls’ Basketball

JSIAA Non-Public B North N Sectional Champions

Girls’ Cross Country Skyland Conference Mountain Division Champions

1 0th Place NJSIAA Non-Public B: Sofia Lima ’29 Sofia Lima ’29

eet of Champions M Qualifier: Sofia Lima ’29

Indoor Track and Field

Luc Jansson ’26, Ice Hockey Career Saves - 2001

Outdoor Track and Field

Olivia Laureano ’29, Girls’ Swimming: 100 Breaststroke - 1:15.55 500 Freestyle - 5:25.97

th Place NJSIAA Non-Public B 6 1600m: Sofia Lima ’29

NJBCA All-Star Game Selection: Addy Platt ’26

JISAA Prep B High Jump N Champion: Logan Domsic ’27

Girls’ Fencing

Logan Domsic ’27, Boys’ Track and Field Indoor High Jump - 6'0

5th Place NJSIAA Non-Public B 100m Hurdles: Annalise DeBiase ’29

Coach Tony Bednarsky P’08 ‘10 ‘14 ‘17, Boys’ Soccer Career Wins - 610

6th Place NJSIAA Non-Public B 400m Hurdles: Annalise DeBiase ’29 5th Place NJSIAA Non-Public B 4x100m: Annalise DeBiase ’29, Brooke Jasinkiewicz ’29, Mashari Perry ’28, and Kerissa Woods ’29

Logan Domsic ’27

Girls’ Lacrosse Season Wins - 10 59

He initially joined his parents at Dickens, before taking over the nearly 130-year-old Corbo store in Clifton, operated for generations by his sister-in-law’s family. Brito is careful to differentiate jewelry stores that serve as merchandisers selling branded products from what he does. Corbo Jewelers carries only its name brand and offers in‑house bench skills and manufacturing, allowing Brito and his team to perform repairs, stone setting, and original work on site, which builds trust and relationships through immediate service. The shop focuses heavily on custom rings, pendants, and diamond necklaces, with a process prioritizing speed and personalization. Brito takes pride in educating potential buyers before delivering custom engagement rings in weeks — a fraction of the industry’s typical four-month turnaround. He also creates 3D renders, which serve as “proofs” for clients to review before purchasing original creations.

From Finance to Fine Jewelry Kevin V. Brito ’17 is in the business of celebration By: Jana Brown Kevin V. Brito ’17 values the personal connections he builds with his clients. “I don’t consider myself a retailer or salesman,” explains Brito, a skilled tradesman and gemologist who owns Corbo Jewelers in Clifton, New Jersey. “I’m in the business of celebration. Everything we make is in celebration of a moment.” As a fifth-generation jeweler, Brito pours his heart into his work. His shop serves clients at key life moments, from engagements and weddings to births, graduations, and other milestones. “I get to be part of something more,” Brito adds. “People have been coming to us for decades because their

In addition to the celebratory work, Brito also loves helping customers “revive or relive” memories by restoring inherited pieces, often with deeply emotional results. A recent customer walked into the store with a request to modify a sentimental ring that belonged to her late mother. She presented to Brito the rose‑gold band featuring an intricate pattern and asked that it be tapered and resized for comfort. After promising a seven-business-day turnaround, Brito delivered the finished ring in 24 hours. “She actually shed tears in front of us, and that’s something we experience a lot,” Brito says. “It’s amazing because we get to celebrate with people in those moments, and that’s beautiful.” 

grandparents and parents got their rings from us and [so on].” While Brito grew up in a family of jewelers (his greatgrandparents were jewelry manufacturers in New York’s Diamond District, and his parents opened New Jersey-based Dickens Jewelers in 1986), he veered from the path, studying finance at the Stevens Institute of Technology. After two years as a wealth management analyst at BNY Mellon, he realized the long hours were unfulfilling and thought he could put similar effort into his family business with greater satisfaction. That led to a master’s from the Gemological Institute of America and continued education at trade school, where Brito learned jewelry fabrication, design, and repair techniques.

CHAIRS OF

EXCELLENCE

Gill St. Bernard’s School is defined not only by the excellence of its programs, but by the people who bring those programs to life each day. Our faculty and staff shape the student experience through their teaching, their care for one another, and their commitment to the broader life of the school community. It is in recognition of these contributions that we are pleased to affirm the Chairs of Excellence Recognition Program, a schoolwide tradition that honors outstanding members of our faculty and staff. This program includes two distinct annual awards: the Chair of Excellence in Teaching, which has been awarded annually since 1992, and the inaugural Chair of Excellence in Community. Together, these honors reflect a core belief of Gill St. Bernard’s School — that excellence in education is both instructional and communal, and that both are essential to a thriving school. Each recipient is recognized with a captain’s chair, a modest stipend, and public acknowledgment at Commencement.

Chair of Excellence in Community Kristen Armstrong P’21 ’29 ’36

The criteria for the Chair of Excellence in Community are grounded in GSB’s five core values: Courage: Builds internal strength to persevere, take appropriate risks, and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Integrity: Demonstrates honesty, trustworthiness, and consistency in all community interactions. Respect: Practices fairness, courtesy, and empathy, contributing to a diverse and inclusive community. Excellence: Upholds high standards in community life and models responsibility and professionalism. In addition, nominees for the Chair of Excellence in Community should demonstrate GSB’s commitment to a diverse and collaborative community that values both individual and collective talents. Central to this award is a spirit of service to the GSB community, rooted in a generosity of spirit that strengthens the school through personal investment and care for others.

Chair of Excellence in Teaching Lynn Prosen

The Chair of Excellence in Teaching is a longstanding tradition at Gill St. Bernard’s School and remains one of our most meaningful recognitions of instructional excellence. A faculty member may receive the Chair of Excellence in Teaching only once. The criteria for the Chair of Excellence in Teaching include, but are not limited to: Leadership: Demonstrates leadership in working with students and colleagues. Creativity: Brings imagination and innovation to instruction, lesson design, and assessment. Enthusiasm: Inspires students through genuine energy, presence, and love of teaching. Sensitivity: Recognizes and responds thoughtfully to student needs for support and encouragement. Professionalism: Supports student growth, independence, and confidence with high expectations and care.

As Head Librarian and Community Service and Engagement Coordinator, Kristen has created spaces and opportunities where students feel known, valued, and connected. Through initiatives such as the Grateful 4 Club and Reading Buddies, she has helped cultivate empathy, service, friendship, and joy. Her work reflects not only what we do at GSB, but who we aspire to be. - Head of School Dr. Delvin Dinkins, Commencement 2026

Role Model: Serves as a respected example for students and colleagues.

Lynn possesses a rare gift: she helps students experience science not simply as a subject to be studied, but as a way of seeing and engaging with the world. Whether in the classroom, on our trails, at the pond, on the farm, or anywhere else across this remarkable campus, she transforms curiosity into discovery and learning into wonder. - Head of School Dr. Delvin Dinkins, Commencement 2026 28

To hear the full remarks given during commencement, or to see the complete history of recipients, visit gsbschool.org/about/chairs-of-excellence

CHAIRS OF

EXCELLENCE

Chair of Excellence in Community Kristen Armstrong P’21 ’29 ’36

Chair of Excellence in Teaching Lynn Prosen

Role Model: Serves as a respected example for students and colleagues.

To hear the full remarks given during commencement, or to see the complete history of recipients, visit gsbschool.org/about/chairs-of-excellence

2026

Celebrating

Assistant Groundskeeper Jose Antunes and Custodial Assistant Maria Santos retire together following 11 years at GSB and 42 years of marriage.

OUR RETIREES

Anne Wilson has many favorite memories throughout her 33 years with GSB, “but it’s the people I share these experiences with. They are my favorite memory,” she said. “I loved coming to school each day because of the people — the students, families, and especially, and most dearly, the teachers. Our Lower School is a magical place that I have loved teaching in.”

Antunes says, “My favorite memory at GSB was working with the animals from time to time, helping keep the grounds for the families, and being around my grandchildren.”

Jose Antunes GP’29 ’34 & Maria Santos GP’29 ’34

Some of her most cherished memories came during Spring Unit travel experiences to the Pacific Northwest, Northern California’s redwoods, Yellowstone, and Algonquin Provincial Park in Canada. “When an activity we did or a place we hiked or paddled sparked something inside my students that changed how they viewed themselves, what they could do, and their place in the world,” she said.

Among the many traditions she helped foster, one stands out above the rest: the first-grade bluebird unit. Through building bluebird boxes and monitoring the school’s bluebird trail, students learned not only about birds, but about observation, inquiry, and discovery.

Anne Wilson P’16

She looks forward to spending more time bicycling and hiking with family and friends, beginning with a cross-country journey to Seattle that will include visits to national and state parks along the way.

For 24 years, Middle School Language Arts Instructor Denise Konner has guided students through challenges, helping them discover that they are capable of more than they imagined.

Anita Kurisko After seven years in the Admission Office, Donna Orr’s most cherished memory is one of her earliest. “My very first memorable moment was Stone Soup, which occurred just a few days after starting my position in the Admission Office,” she recalled. “It so touched my heart to see this tradition take place, and the joy with which the students carried it out. I knew I was in the right place.”

“Being at GSB since 2002, it’s hard to pick one favorite memory,” she said. “There are many ‘small’ moments, such as when students get excited because they finally understand something they thought was really difficult.”

Denise Konner P’08 ’14

In retirement, Maria and Jose look forward to returning to Portugal to spend time with family, travel, relax, and reconnect with lifelong friends.

Over her seven years at GSB, Upper School Math Faculty member Anita Kurisko created meaningful learning experiences both in and beyond the classroom, helping students build confidence, curiosity, and a sense of adventure.

For 14 of those years, Wilson also experienced GSB as a parent, creating cherished memories alongside her daughter.

“Spring afternoons walking the campus with my class checking on the bluebird boxes and all other birds we see,” Anne recalled. “They learn how to learn by noticing, questioning, and wondering about nature. It’s a lifelong learning experience.”

Santos says she found joy in the everyday moments that make a school community special. “My favorite daily memory of GSB was spending time with the students during lunch time and being around my grandson and granddaughter,” she shared.

Those moments of growth and achievement have defined her career and exemplify the impact teachers have far beyond the classroom.

In retirement, Donna looks forward to spending more time with her grandchildren and family, traveling, and continuing her volunteer work with the Morristown Rotary Club and Healing Gardens of Morris Veterans Valor.

Her advice to the GSB community reflects the kindness and thoughtfulness she has modeled throughout her years at the school: “Don’t forget that the things you say and do, no matter how small, have an impact on others, even if you don’t realize it.”

“I will always hold GSB in the highest esteem,” she said. “I am honored to have worked with the best co-workers to welcome new students and families into the community. Remember to appreciate the beautiful surroundings and the beautiful moments that surround you each day.”

Donna Orr

2026

Celebrating

Assistant Groundskeeper Jose Antunes and Custodial Assistant Maria Santos retire together following 11 years at GSB and 42 years of marriage.

OUR RETIREES

Antunes says, “My favorite memory at GSB was working with the animals from time to time, helping keep the grounds for the families, and being around my grandchildren.”

Jose Antunes GP’29 ’34 & Maria Santos GP’29 ’34

Anne Wilson P’16

For 24 years, Middle School Language Arts Instructor Denise Konner has guided students through challenges, helping them discover that they are capable of more than they imagined.

Denise Konner P’08 ’14

In retirement, Maria and Jose look forward to returning to Portugal to spend time with family, travel, relax, and reconnect with lifelong friends.

For 14 of those years, Wilson also experienced GSB as a parent, creating cherished memories alongside her daughter.

Those moments of growth and achievement have defined her career and exemplify the impact teachers have far beyond the classroom.

Donna Orr

Retiring

Trustees Terms ending June 2025

Retiring

Trustees Terms ending June 2026

Dr. Haresh Kane P’29 ’34 joined the Board in 2023

Sara Ash Kenefick ’08

Rev. Dr. Paul Saddler ’69

joined the Board in 2022, following in the footsteps of her mother, former trustee Fredi Ash ’79. She served the school as a member of the Board’s Finance and Advancement Committees. Sara has been a consistent supporter of the GSB Fund and other school priority needs.

joined the Board in 2022, building on a legacy of leadership that began when he and his older brother, John Saddler ’68, were the first students of color at GSB. As a trustee, he continued to lead through his service on the DEIC Committee.

Reema Puri P’19 ’21

joined the Board in 2020 amid the challenges of the pandemic. She has served on the DEIC Committee, the Strategic Planning Committee, and the Committee on Trustees. Reema has provided a quiet voice of advice and reason, and her leadership has extended through her volunteerism, philanthropy, and dedication to GSB, even after her children graduated.

Ray Conger ’03 and his family

have been a longtime presence at GSB. Ray followed in his father’s footsteps and has been a trustee since 2019. As a board member, he has served as a member of the Advancement Committee and the DEIC Committee. Since his graduation, Ray has remained involved in the school, serving as a member of our Alumni Council. 32

Ashok Vemuri P’19 ’22

joined the Board in 2022, serving as a member of the Board’s Finance Committee. Ashok and his wife, Tenaz, are longtime volunteers for GSB and parents to Iyanah ’19 and Isha ’22.

and quickly made an impact as Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee. His thoughtful leadership helped shape GSB’s strategic framework, with a particular focus on expanding partnerships, fostering a culture of philanthropy rooted in purpose, and elevating the school’s visibility and impact. He brought a spirit of curiosity, strategic thinking, and deep commitment to the school’s long-term success. With his wife, Pavala — a GSB parent volunteer — he has two children, Ishaan ’29 and Leela ’34.

Elizabeth Fucci P’17 joined GSB as a

parent 22 years ago and quickly became involved in the school’s community as a volunteer. Her service to the school has included serving as a class parent and in various roles on the Parents’ Association, ultimately as its president. She was a dedicated member of the Parents’ Admission Network (PAN) and its president for over 10 years. She became a trustee of the school in 2012 and served in multiple capacities, including serving on the Advancement and Search Committees, and as Chair of the Committee on Trustees and Secretary of the Board. Her contributions were many, given the breadth of her involvement. However, two contributions stand out in particular. Always a fierce and passionate advocate for the school, she embraced her role on PAN with passion. Her school tours were a great hit; her contagious school spirit was always evident. I would not be exaggerating to say that Liz was responsible for making an impact on the enrollment decisions of hundreds of students currently at GSB or its recent graduates. As the Chair of the Committee on Trustees, she oversaw the vetting of many classes of trustees,

including myself. All current trustees had to survive her eagle-eyed scrutiny. Her efforts have shaped the Board for years to come. She was a trusted confidant to many, a voice of steady guidance, and a source of inspiration. Liz is a shining example of what we cherish most in the GSB community — someone who always puts the school first, always says yes when asked for help, always has a great idea, and never misses an opportunity to step up. Our school benefited from her wisdom in countless ways. I am one of the many people who are here at GSB because of Liz. It was her admissions tour that convinced our boys that this was the right school for them. I feel deeply honored to have served alongside her as a fellow trustee. She was the one trustee whom I would call for advice on difficult matters. Her point of view was always thoughtful, honest, fair, balanced, and empathetic. I am lucky to have benefited from her advice. More than anything else, I am lucky to have benefited from her warm friendship. - Board of Trustees Chair Rajiv De Silva P’21 ’25, upon presenting Liz Fucci the GSB Medal during Commencement 2026 33

Retiring

Trustees Terms ending June 2025

Retiring

Trustees Terms ending June 2026

Dr. Haresh Kane P’29 ’34 joined the Board in 2023

Sara Ash Kenefick ’08

Rev. Dr. Paul Saddler ’69

Reema Puri P’19 ’21

Ray Conger ’03 and his family

Ashok Vemuri P’19 ’22

joined the Board in 2022, serving as a member of the Board’s Finance Committee. Ashok and his wife, Tenaz, are longtime volunteers for GSB and parents to Iyanah ’19 and Isha ’22.

Elizabeth Fucci P’17 joined GSB as a

New Trustees

Erin Mayo

2025-2026

Erin Mayo is the Head of School at Doane Academy, a PK-12 independent day school. She earned her B.A. in English from Georgetown University and her M.A. in English from Middlebury College’s Bread Loaf School of English. Erin has two children, Maive and Gunnar. She lives in Burlington, NJ, with her husband, Peter, a retired teacher, and she enjoys reading, walking, and crocheting.

Chris Miller P’28 ’31

Chris Miller is Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Verizon Global Services. He earned his B.A. in Journalism from Iowa State University and his J.D. from the University of Michigan. Chris is a current GSB parent to daughters Anya ’28 and Evie ’31. He enjoys marathon running and legal pro bono representation. Chris, his wife, Lisa, and their daughters live in Mendham, NJ.

Left to right: Susan Brooks P’31 ’35 ’38, Chris Miller P’28 ’31, Marianne Walsh Saladino P’14 ’16, Tim Starkey P’32, Dr. Roshni Bhakta P’27 Not pictured: Erin Mayo

Marianne Walsh Saladino P’14 ’16

Marianne Walsh Saladino earned her B.A. in Political Science from Fairfield University and is an active member of the Lake Club, Essex Hunt Club, Roxiticus Golf Club, and the Women’s NJ Golf Association. Marianne is a past GSB parent to daughters Casey ’14 and Kara ’16. She enjoys spending time with her family and her dogs and playing golf. Marianne and her husband, Jake, live in Gladstone, NJ.

Dr. Roshni Bhakta P’27

Dr. Bhakta is Head of Business Development for Neurology, Rare Disease, and Technology Platforms at Sanofi. She earned a B.S. in Biological Sciences from Carnegie Mellon University and a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from Cornell University’s Weill Cornell Medicine Graduate School of Medical Sciences, where she has also served as an Innovation Venture Advisor. Roshni’s daughter Mira ’27 is a current GSB student. Roshni, her husband, Phillip, and Mira reside in Morristown, NJ.

Susan Brooks P’31 ’35 ’38

Susan Brooks serves as Chair of the Sarah P. Duke Gardens Board of Advisors. She earned a B.A. in English and a B.A. in Public Policy Studies from Duke University, and she is a current GSB parent (Judith ’31, Fourth ’35, and Cora ’38). Susan enjoys reading, sewing, cooking, baking, cake decorating, and tackling the New York Times crossword puzzle, while sharing family life with her husband, Paschal, a Managing Director at Aon Securities. Susan and her family live in Bernardsville, NJ. 34

Tim Starkey P’32

Tim Starkey is Managing Partner and Family Wealth Advisor at LiftPoint Family Wealth Advisors. He earned his degree from Lehigh University and is a CPA and Chartered Financial Consultant, while also serving as a Trustee at Peddie School. Tim is a current parent to daughter, Hadley ’32. He enjoys paddle tennis, spending time with his daughter and relaxing on the beach with his wife, Amanda. Tim and his family live in Bedminster, NJ.

46 35

New Trustees

Erin Mayo

2025-2026

Chris Miller P’28 ’31

Left to right: Susan Brooks P’31 ’35 ’38, Chris Miller P’28 ’31, Marianne Walsh Saladino P’14 ’16, Tim Starkey P’32, Dr. Roshni Bhakta P’27 Not pictured: Erin Mayo

Marianne Walsh Saladino P’14 ’16

Dr. Roshni Bhakta P’27

Susan Brooks P’31 ’35 ’38

Tim Starkey P’32

46 35

Reunion & Alumni

Weekend 2026

Flipping through GSB yearbooks during the Saturday morning Alumni Breakfast, Jud Spencer ’76 was suddenly pulled out of the past by an unexpected question: “Did you know my dad?!” Charlie Kasman ’16 had spotted Jud’s class year — the very same as Charlie’s father, the late Lee Kasman ’76. Instantly, two generations of GSB alumni were deep in conversation as if they were old friends effortlessly catching up. The Alumni Breakfast — an opportunity to look through yearbooks and memorabilia and hear directly from the Head of School and current student leaders — was one of many opportunities for unique moments during Alumni Weekend. More than 80 alumni traveled from all over the country to participate in two days of events. “Pathways: An Alumni Art Exhibition,” the first ever Alumni Art Exhibition, featured works of art in a variety of mediums by 8 alumni: Cecilia Crowe ’22, Emma Dean ’17, Keith Edwards ’75, Marci Shrewsbury Lopez ’69, Michael Morris ’77, Bob Ort ’89, Sara Rodriguez ’23, and Kelly Schiesswohl ’17.

“Arts and Draughts” was hosted in the Chapel and sponsored by the Alfaro Family, who provided beverages from their family-owned brewery, Conclave Brewing. Alumni Voices joined the Upper School Choir in singing the Alma Mater which marked its 30th anniversary. Former teacher Ann Turner wrote the lyrics, and it premiered in 1996. Several members of the Alumni Community joined the choir on stage during the performance, connecting voices across generations. GSB student band Blue in the Face joined Saturday’s picnic to entertain the crowd and provide a fabulous and lively atmosphere while alumni reminisced, visited with friends and former teachers, and experienced the joy of the campus. Athletic Hall of Fame inductee Mike Morris ’77, who set a record by pitching 3 no-hitters during the 1976 season, delivered the Alumni First Pitch to former teammate Willy Feingold ’77 to kick off a varsity baseball game. The finale of the weekend was the evening’s 50th Reunion Dinner celebrating the Class of 1976 and honoring our former Head of School Jack Wright, which reminded everyone of the power of Jack’s words, “the world is our classroom.” No matter how near or far, everyone’s journey since graduation continues to reflect those inspiring words.

To receive updates about future reunion events, provide your email address at gsbschool.org/contact-update 36

Reunion & Alumni

Weekend 2026

To receive updates about future reunion events, provide your email address at gsbschool.org/contact-update 36

GSB PARENTS’

ASSOCIATION Whether dressed in formalwear or face paint, snow boots or neon legwarmers, the GSB community always knows how to show up. Parents’ Association events span every season, connecting families in joyous events on and off campus. Every GSB parent and guardian is a member of the PA, and their vital volunteer support bolsters the entire community.

See more from each event and learn how to participate: gsbschool.org/parents 38

GSB PARENTS’

See more from each event and learn how to participate: gsbschool.org/parents 38

ON H

THE FARM

ome Winds Farm completed a new addition in the summer of 2025. This thoughtfully designed pole barn was constructed with two essential needs in mind — hay storage and farming equipment housing

In contrast to other visible structures on the farm, such as the ram shed and the sheep and poultry barn, the pole barn is designed to support farming infrastructure. It features a high-clearance roof, a heated workshop, running water, an indoor sink, and outdoor spigots, all making regular maintenance tasks more efficient. “What many may not realize is that farming is highly infrastructure-dependent,” Farm Manager Ned Lincoln explained. “While agricultural buildings might appear similar from the outside, each serves a distinct function critical to the farm’s operation.” 40

A pole barn, also known as a post-frame building, is a type of structure supported by large vertical posts set directly into the ground or mounted on a minimal foundation. With horizontal girts and roof trusses forming the frame, this style of building gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s as a cost-effective solution for agricultural needs. The new pole barn helps extend the lifespan of essential equipment — including two tractors, a brush hog, a tiller, and a manure spreader — by keeping them out of the elements. The storage of hay also requires special consideration. Leaving dry hay outside exposes it to rain, which leaches vital nutrients. Wrapping hay for outdoor storage risks damage from animals, which can tear the plastic and cause the bales to oxygenate and grow mold. By moving hay storage indoors, GSB can preserve its nutritional quality and ensure our animals are well-fed throughout the winter months. 41

ON H

THE FARM

ome Winds Farm completed a new addition in the summer of 2025. This thoughtfully designed pole barn was constructed with two essential needs in mind — hay storage and farming equipment housing

Weddings Shannon Ludlum ’03 married Mark Zebro Jr., November 2025 Jessica White ’12 married Cole Crisco, October 2025 Samantha Casternovia ’13 married Shawn Dahl, September 2025 Sarah Cramer ’13 married Kevin Kirschner, October 2025 Iman Jebara ’13 married Khalil Suradi, May 2025 Hannah Layden ’13 married Brian Haggerty, May 2025 Samantha Merton ’14 married Melissa Calle Vasquez, February 2026 Cara Napolitano ’14 married Tristan Hollenbaugh, October 2025

Zeel Patel ‘15 and Nimay Barman

Kiliaen O’Connor ’14 and Becca Richardson ’14 married April 2025

Luke Beveridge ’15 married Sydney Price, October 2025 Mike Tafaro ’15 married Grace Neilson, November 2025 Sophie Connell ’16 married Austin Shackelton, August 2025 Josh Layden ’16 married Leah Kramer, September 2025 Caty Matthews ’16 married Dillon Kuehn, August 2025 Adam Mitola ’16 married Jenna Pizza, August 2025 Emily Wainen ’16 married Colby Gilbert, April 2026 Erica Phiansunthon ’17 married Sahil Singh, November 2025 Sarah Caminito ’18 married Sean, October 2025 Zeel Patel ’15 married Nimay Barman, June 2025

Left to right: Stark Kirby ’13, Zoey Roth ’18, Sienna Roth ’13, Ryan LaPre ’13, Emily Fischer ’13, Margaret LaPre ’13, Yale Zirpolo ’13, CJ Blasi ’13, Ben Brown ’13, Kerri Mandelbaum, Hannah Layden Haggerty ’13, Svet Brankov ’13

& Birth Announcements

Ellie Jo Posner born 7/28/25 to Veronica Maoli Posner ’16 and Zach Posner Taylor Lucas Crandall born 3/18/2026 to Jessica Kundla Crandall ’13 and Michael Crandall Amelia Shelly Ball born 3/9/2026 to Jacob and Miquel Ball ’12 *Weddings and birth announcements reported to GSB from June 2, 2025 through May 31, 2026 42

Baby Ellie Jo Posner, born July 28, 2025 to Veronica Maoli Posner ’16 and Zach Posner

In Memoriam Alumni

Faculty and Staff

Carol Creasey ’58 John “Vinnie” Bowlus ’63 David Emmerrich ’69 Ken Yanow ’76 Brenda Kelly Higgins ’76 Vickie Obermeyer Russell ’77

Sheri Ann Alexander George Flynn

*Deaths reported to GSB from June 2, 2025 through May 31, 2026

Zeel Patel ‘15 and Nimay Barman

Kiliaen O’Connor ’14 and Becca Richardson ’14 married April 2025

& Birth Announcements

Baby Ellie Jo Posner, born July 28, 2025 to Veronica Maoli Posner ’16 and Zach Posner

In Memoriam Alumni

Faculty and Staff

Carol Creasey ’58 John “Vinnie” Bowlus ’63 David Emmerrich ’69 Ken Yanow ’76 Brenda Kelly Higgins ’76 Vickie Obermeyer Russell ’77

Sheri Ann Alexander George Flynn

*Deaths reported to GSB from June 2, 2025 through May 31, 2026

Dear Class of 2026, The commencement ceremony is over, the flowers are dried and pressed, the cards are in a memory box, the dress or jacket is hanging in the closet, and you are now officially Gill St. Bernard’s School Alumni. Whether you were here for two years, four years, ten years, or any number of years, you became part of a legacy. Your time spent at GSB allows you to have a shared experience with over 3000 other members of this amazing organization.

From the