Kent Place Magazine - Winter/Spring 2026

Lifers from the Class of 2026

2From Mabie House

3In Her View

4Commons Room

26Life at Kent Place

40Michelle Murphy’s Most Important Number

44The Machines That Move Our Markets

50Keeping Pace

57Class Notes

72With Wisdom

“Our hallways enable students to physically manipulate their environment, transforming a blank space into a hub for engineering challenges, artistic patterns, and problem-solving.”

To learn more, see page 7.

Where Every Number Tells a Story

In this very letter, over the years, I’ve frequently written about the power of numbers. Perhaps that’s because numbers, when you look at them closely, often tell stories of purpose and connection. is is my ninth year as Head of School, and every day since the beginning of September I’ve had the joy and privilege of leading 684 students from more than 75 communities — each bringing her own story, strengths, and spark.

Lately, there’s been renewed conversation in the media about the immense value of girls schools. For 131 years, Kent Place has believed in that value — and put that belief into action: Here, girls and young women are empowered to be leaders, on campus, at college, and beyond. ousands of our alumnae are changemakers across the globe, carrying with them the con dence, compassion, and conviction rst nurtured here.

Our mission statement — just 16 words — is, in itself, powerful. And in this issue of Kent Place, you’ll meet 16 students in the Class of 2026 who embody it in a remarkable way. ese “lifers,” who began their time at Kent Place in the earliest grades, demonstrate what it means to grow up in a community of families, faculty, sta , and alumnae who believe that when girls are empowered, the world advances.

In these pages, you’ll nd countless expressions of that same spirit — students asking questions with curiosity, faculty inspiring with purpose, and alumnae making a di erence far beyond our campus. Every story, like every number, holds meaning. Together, they remind us why empowering girls is more important than ever.

Yours for Kent Place,

Dr. Jennifer C. Galambos Head of School

Kent Place

EDITOR

Rachel Naggar P ’25

Director of Communications

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Paige Coviello

Associate Director of Communications

ALUMNAE EDITOR

Aimee Bousquet Singer ’88 P ’25

Advancement Communications Manager

CONTRIBUTORS

Vicky Browne

Casey Caprio

Andrea Dawson, Writer

Julie Gentile

Beth Gottung

Rashied McCreary

Erin Peterson, Writer

Lainey Segear

Julia So er

Sarah Stapperfenne

Edel Thomas

Doris Troy, Copy Editor

CREATIVE DIRECTION AND DESIGN

2communiqué

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

Laura Barisonzi

PHOTOGRAPHY

Laura Barisonzi

Peter Chollick

Rebecca Nowalski

PRINTING

Kirkwood

Kent Place, the o cial magazine of Kent Place School, is published twice a year by the Communications O ce, in partnership with the Advancement O ce, for alumnae, parents, students, faculty, sta , and friends of the school.

Kent Place School

42 Norwood Avenue Summit, NJ 07901 (908) 273-0900 kentplace.org

We welcome your input: communications@kentplace.org

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE FIELD TRIP OR OTHER OFF-CAMPUS EXPERIENCE?

e Bayhead Conference, where student leaders would convene in someone’s lovely home to plan for the following school year. Dr. Cole came upon me reading a Danielle Steele book; I was horri ed, and she said, “As long as you’re reading”!

—SALLY (LEWIS) MEISNER ’91

We had the best time visiting Boston. We even survived a Red Sox game, despite most of us being Yankees fans.

—HILARY SAYIA ’04

The ropes course!

—AMANDA (TARPLIN) KIRILOV ’03

Trip to Washington, D.C., to see Les Misérables and visit the monuments.

—TANAI (SANDERS) WHITE ’92

The Class of 1965 trip to Bermuda, my first plane ride. I remember venturing into town, breaking curfew to see the Temptations perform in a small club.

—DEBORAH KOOPERSTEIN ’65

I remember the Bermuda trip quite di erently from Deborah. I loved visiting the museums, government buildings, and the many splendid churches. My rst scuba-diving adventure and swimming with sharks were things I’ll never forget.

—JANE (KOLARSEY) KUSTERER ’65

Liberty Science Center and the Touch Tunnel

Singing Carmina Burana at Lincoln Center with Chorale my senior year. Not only was the experience of singing at such an iconic place unforgettable, but somehow I also still remember all of the Latin lyrics!

—CHRISTINA PIOCOSTA-LAHUE ’96

Mr. Wrangham took a small group of us to New York City to see War and Peace. Between parts one and two, we left the theater for dinner. I felt so grown-up!

—JAMIE GIFFORD-MODICK ’71

Our junior spring break trip to England. We were supposed to go to Egypt but changed plans at the last minute due to safety concerns. I’d have loved to see the pyramids, but it’s hard to imagine having more fun than we did.

—LAUREN (KARES) HARRISON ’86

Who were the brave sta members (along with Dr. Culver) who led chorus-competition field trips to Busch Gardens, in Williamsburg, Virginia, and New Orleans? Great fun!

—GABRIELLE (COSTANZO) LONG ’93

—ALANNA (BUTERA) GEORGES ’05

When Mr. Pridham took the cast of Hair to a high school drama competition at the Bucks County Playhouse. We were so into that play; we’d learned all about the Vietnam War and thought of ourselves as hippie peaceniks. Our presentation didn’t go well with the judges, who thought our understanding of the era was super cial and also that we looked too clean. We disagreed and started shouting “Peace now, freedom now!” from the auditorium to drown out their comments. Not the best response to criticism, I now see, but we were so caught up in the moment.

—EMILY (BARTON) HOPKINS ’87

Email communications@kentplace.org

COMMONS ROOM

The Leadership Center Takes Shape

From above, the next hub of campus life is emerging. e footprint of the future Leadership Center for Athletics, Wellness, and Performing Arts is no longer just lines on a rendering — it’s becoming real. is fall, the work reached a new height — literally. A towering crane now stands where our basketball court and tness center will one day energize students, faculty, and families. Steel beams are being lifted carefully into place, forming the framework of a space where students will move, grow, and create together.

Every day brings new signs of progress. Whereas the crane and beams are the most visible symbols of momentum, essential work continues just out of sight: Plumbing and electrical systems are being put into place, foundations are being reinforced, and concrete is being poured.

Soon, these beams will support far more than walls and roofs; they’ll hold up moments of teamwork, expression, and joy for generations of Dragons to come.

As winter gives way to spring, the Leadership Center continues to take shape — a tangible reminder of our vision for the future of athletics, wellness, and the arts at Kent Place.

Kayla Peng ’26

When Kayla Peng ’26 talks about school, these are what stick with her: the day Dr. Pantozzi shared his family tree in AP Calculus and the class made pancakes to learn about math concepts; the time, during a math lab, when she considered the ethics of Starlink satellites with Dr. Durbal; and when at the hectic close of a trimester, she chatted about disrupted sleep schedules with Dr. Neacsu and Ms. Joseph.

ese memories are classic Kayla, says her former English teacher and Writing Center mentor Lisa Cohen. “She’s not the kind of student who focuses on assessments and grades. She genuinely wants to grow herself and help others.”

In Kayla’s words, exposure to “new ways of thinking” is what she values most, no matter the class or activity she’s involved in. “I love learning from my peers, but teachers o er a unique perspective,” she says. “It’s vitalizing to speak with an adult and suddenly you’re like, ‘Wow, I didn’t know this point of view existed!’”

Kayla’s mild manner belies the remarkable energy and excitement she derives from engaging with others and, she says, “getting to the bottom of things” — English Department Chair Bridget Cooper calls her “a quiet force to be reckoned with.”

Not surprisingly, journalism is a passion. A four-year writer for the student newspaper, Ballast, she is currently co-editor-in-chief. As a freshman, shortly after arriving at Kent Place, she was among a handful of students nationwide to win a New York Times “one-pager” contest. Artfully re ecting on social isolation in the age of relentless productivity, she displayed a self-awareness beyond her years — and an insightful understanding of the value of community.

It’s a mindset that may derive, in part, from her bicultural upbringing. Born in the United States, Kayla lived near her extended family outside of Shanghai for a few years in elementary school. Experiencing the pollution — “we had to wear masks to go to school because of the smog,” she recalls — she became a committed environmentalist, a eld she hopes to pursue in college. Today, when she’s not volunteering with the Bernards Chamber of Commerce, helping to plan community events, or leading Kent Place’s Environmental Club, she attends climate conferences as an executive board member of the New Jersey Student Sustainability Coalition. Last winter, she conducted independent research on the use of AI to detect microplastics.

As Ms. Cohen notes, Kayla views these many endeavors not as accomplishments, but rather as opportunities: “She’s not at all performative,” Ms. Cohen says. “She identi es places where she’d like to contribute and gures out the skill set she needs. at level of authentic learning and self-re ection is unique.”

Ask Kayla what she feels most proud of having achieved at Kent Place, and her response is unequivocal: “Finding my people,” she says. “I found a community where I belong, where I can be myself. Knowledge I can pick up anytime, but relationships take time to build. It’s very important to me to maintain them.”

REBOOTING REBOOT. This student-led group dedicated to helping peers navigate their digital lives has a new spin on its familiar name. As leaders planned ahead for 2025–2026, they streamlined

the REBOOT acronym, moving from the original “Rethinking Ethical Behavior Online (for) Oneself Together” to “Resetting Ethical Boundaries on Our Technology.” The change reflects the group’s

evolving mission to help students think more intentionally about their tech use — its timing, purpose, and impact. A RECORD-BREAKING ROUND OF RECOGNITION. KPS proudly celebrates 24 seniors — an impressive 30 percent of the Class of 2026 — who earned recognition in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program, marking the highest percentage in school history. The

MORNING MEETING [continued on p. 8]

PHYSICS AT PLAY.

Magnetic gears animate physics concepts through direct, tactile experiences. Students exercise their teamwork and communication skills while building working gear systems and troubleshooting designs.

BRILLIANT BY DESIGN

PATHWAYS TO PLAYFUL LEARNING

The Primary School’s vision for social connection through child-led play comes to life in its intentionally designed hallways, where magnetic gears, weaving walls, and collaborative games turn transitions into moments of joyful learning.

LOGIC IN ACTION. The sudoku wall is a popular destination for students of all ages, especially when it’s been reset to the New York Times puzzle of the day. Students can challenge themselves individually or work with partners during morning arrival, recess on a rainy day, or transitions between classes. As they work to fill the grid, they practice logical reasoning and find the rewards of persistence.

PATTERNS AND PRECISION. Using mini-golf tees, students can create colorful designs as they explore symmetry and patterning. The fine motor coordination, hand strength, and concentration support other precision tasks, such as handwriting and art production.

IMAGINATION UNLEASHED. Building with Legos sparks imagination and innovation among our first- through fifthgraders, providing opportunities for them to design, build, and iterate at any available moment.

WHERE EMPATHY MEETS AGENCY

The Art & Science of Friendship

As two girls approach each other in the hallway from opposite directions, one wonders if she spotted a subtle eye roll from the other. Rather than take it personally, she catches herself: Maybe she just got a math test back and isn’t happy with her score, she thinks.

Assuming you’ve been the target of a dreaded eye roll is what longtime Baltimore-area school counselor and educational consultant Jill Jahries refers to as a “negative automatic thought” (NAT).

Humans are hardwired to experience them, but girls, it turns out, are especially vulnerable. Training them to reframe these thoughts and consider more positive alternatives is a powerful friendship tool — one of many that Ms. Jahries teaches Kent Place sixth- and seventh-graders in her program, Cliques & rones: Navigating the Kingdom of Friendship.

At Kent Place, friendship-related programming exists in all three divisions. Having

a shared understanding and language around healthy friendships — plus coaching when challenges arise — is particularly helpful in the Middle School, says Division Director Neisha Payne, who rst invited Ms. Jahries to campus in 2023. She has visited annually ever since, delivering a full-day workshop to students and faculty, in addition to an evening presentation for parents.

“We talk a lot at Kent Place about being a good community member, so the spotlight

program is a nationwide academic competition entered through the PSAT/NMSQT, which screens more than 1.3 million students annually. FROM SEEDS TO SALSA. Primary School students harvested the fruits of their labor from the World Language garden they planted last

May. After watching their seeds grow, they enjoyed picking cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and more — tasting their harvest in class and even making salsa to share. The PS also held a contest to design the garden’s sign: Evie Ge ’36’s and Avery Zheng ’33’s creative designs

were the winners. INNOVATORS AT WORK. The newly renamed KPS Ethical Entrepreneurs & Young Innovator$ (KEEY$) program gives sixth-graders a hands-on introduction to business, innovation, and ethics. Students explore fundamental economic principles,

develop entrepreneurial thinking, and learn to balance creativity with ethical and environmental responsibility. The yearlong program culminates in a spring showcase, where students apply their learning — from investigating consumer needs to managing resources —

shines a little brighter on friendships,” says Ms. Payne. “If we want girls to uplift one another, knowing how to manage relational aggression is important.”

Unlike overt bullying, more commonly associated with boys, relational aggression is a hallmark of middle school life among girls. “Words and behavior, particularly when they’re explicitly exerted to manipulate, isolate, or reject, can be just as hurtful as physical harm,” says Ms. Jahries, alluding to her program title’s clever take on the old adage “Sticks and stones . . .”

Acknowledging how profoundly girls value friendships — and normalizing their strong emotions around them — is an important starting point for Ms. Jahries. Next, a series of group activities and conversations center on evaluating relationships (di erentiating cliques from friend groups, for example), establishing boundaries, asserting an opinion and disagreeing respectfully, developing agency, and building resilience.

“I recently had trouble saying no to a friend; I was scared our relationship would be a ected,” says Pearl Dawadi ’30. “But we learned about being Captains of Our Own Ships, so I know that choosing to do what I enjoy and value isn’t a bad thing.”

Cliques & rones isn’t only about building good friendships. It also reinforces the school’s ongoing message about empowering girls. “We’re helping girls to develop their voice, to have the con dence and courage to validate their gut feelings, and to have the language to use with friends when they feel them,” says Ms. Payne. “It’s a skill that will help them not just in Middle School relationships, but in life generally, too.”

LODESTAR LEADS THE WAY IN ETHICAL INQUIRY

Launched last year, Lodestar is the Ethics Institute’s student-run academic journal, dedicated to promoting the application of ethics in everyday life. The Lodestar team is charting an ambitious course this year with two planned editions.

Editors-in-Chief Claire Cherill ’26, Kara Asuncion Hoang ’27, and Olivia Peters ’26 lead a dedicated team of sta writers, artists, copy editors, and social media coordinators. They manage a fast-paced editorial process — selecting, refining, and shaping thought-provoking work for a broad community of readers. What emerges is more than a journal: It’s a snapshot of how young people at Kent Place are wrestling with the ethical complexities of the world around them.

Interest since the initial volume has been explosive: Students in the Middle and Upper Schools submitted more than 40 pieces, tackling questions that stretch from the environmental implications of artificial intelligence to the ethics of Pentagon press regulation and from the medicalization of menopause to the question of who, exactly, “owns” outer space.

“This year we have more voices contributing, and it’s been exciting to help lead a bigger Lodestar team,” said Kara. “We don’t shy away from di cult ethical questions but use them to open up real conversation and reflection. I hope readers feel that same curiosity and openness when they move through this year’s first issue.”

issue

and sell products guided by high ethical standards. CREATIVITY WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY. This fall, the Kent Place Gallery shined a light on the remarkable talents of Upper School Visual Arts Chair Carey Gates and Gallery Director Ken Weathersby, both presenting

dedicated exhibitions of their artwork. These shows celebrated the creative leadership that shapes our students’ artistic experiences. A schoolwide faculty and sta exhibit earlier in 2026 further showcased the artistic range and imagination that define our community.

SERVING UP A WELL-DESERVED

HONOR. Congratulations to Head of School Jennifer Galambos, who was inducted into the Franklin & Marshall Athletic Hall of Fame for her exceptional performance as a member of the college’s tennis team from 1984 to 1988. Her legacy

of determination and leadership is apparent in every facet of our school community. TRIPLET TEAMS SPELL TO SUCCESS. The Middle School Spelling Bee concluded in December with an exciting showdown among Kent Place’s top spellers.

[continued on p. 10]

Priyana Manglani ’27

A self-described STEM student, she gushes over a lm art class she took last year and talks with animation about her passion for French — she’s considering an independent study in the language during her senior year and minoring in it in college. ese seemingly disparate interests re ect the indefatigable, ardent love of learning that de nes Priyana Manglani ’27.

She refuses to be pigeonholed.

“I’m not going to not do Mock Trial, for example, just because I don’t have plans to go to law school,” she says. “I love all my classes and activities deeply. I wouldn’t ever

think of stopping anything.”

Indeed, narrowing her interests — or slowing down — is not in Priyana’s plans.

“She gives 100 percent to everything. She doesn’t waste a single moment to learn more,” says Spandita Majumder, her advisor and math teacher, recalling the persuasive case Priyana made for taking AP Calculus this year, as a junior.

In addition to Mock Trial (she’s a star witness and its director of outreach), Priyana is a devoted member of the Ethics Bowl team — “Her enthusiasm for rich, ethical discussion is infectious,” says Karen Rezach, Director of the

Ethics Institute. She writes for the school’s ethics publication, Lodestar, and is vice president of both the Community Service Club and Girls Exploring the Medical Sciences (GEMS). Last year, with her sister, Krisana ’28, she launched the school’s rst Mahjong Club.

A music lover, she also plays ute in the orchestra and taught herself the ukulele and guitar (ri ng in her bedroom is one of her favorite ways to unwind).

Priyana readily admits that the eld of health care holds particular interest. Last year, for the yearlong Bioethics Project, she researched — mentored by a Georgetown University professor — the ethics of maternal and fetal health care among homeless women. e experience indulged Priyana’s hunger for knowledge and sparked an interest in medical school.

“I wrote a 40-page research paper by the end of that course,” she still marvels. “I never thought I could do that. I felt so proud of my work.”

In her paltry free time, she shadows a reproductive endocrinologist, just to learn more. For the past two summers, she has interned with Columbia’s Stem Cell Initiative, working with a renowned scientist to investigate the role of stem cells in cystic brosis–related diabetes.

“Helping people, having an impact, those are my goals,” Priyana says. And as the team lead of a local chapter of Children’s Hope of India, for which she organizes fundraising events for New York City’s homeless, and her community service leadership in school, she’s achieving them.

“My biggest fear,” she says, “is regretting that I didn’t try something. You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take. Why not go for it?”

Participants earned their spots during a Triplet Cup Challenge, in which each team’s quiz tallies determined the top scorer. The event highlighted not only spelling talent but also teamwork, preparation, and school spirit — a winning combination for all

involved! KINDNESS, SPRINKLED EVERYWHERE. A cherished KPS tradition continued this year as Kindergartners marked World Kindness Day by leaving notes for the entire community. From the Primary School and Annex to the Middle and Upper Schools, students

and faculty discovered thoughtful messages tucked away in hallways and classrooms, on doors, and outside. Being a KINDergartner means spreading kindness far and wide! COLLABORATION ABOUNDS. The Community Life and Well-Being O ce welcomed students from

four partner schools for a dynamic meet-and-greet. More than 50 students participated in discussions about school life and exchanged ideas, setting the stage for a year of shared learning and collaboration. ROCK STARS DIG DEEP. Thirdgraders rocked their adventure at

SKETCHING THE WAY TO MEANING

Every fall, the Sketchbook Project becomes one of the most memorable early experiences in English 9. The project invites students to look beyond what they read and focus instead on how they read — a shift from summary to true literary analysis. Over the first eight weeks of school, students transform their summer reading selections into visual journals that blend imagery, annotation, and creative expression.

The process begins with each student choosing a compelling image from her novel and engaging in freewriting and pre-sketchbook activities, such as crafting poems and illustrating key scenes. These early exercises help students explore theme, tone, and per-

spective before translating their insights into a mixed-media sketchbook.

“I learned a lot about the reading process through the Sketchbook Project,” says Charlotte Poole ’29. “It took reading the book to the next level by having us look at how we read it and displaying that visually.”

For many, the creative approach unlocks new understanding. “I actually disliked the book I chose when I first read it,” says Eva Obalde ’29, “but having to sit with it and visualize the themes led me to find much more value in it.”

By analyzing through art — as well as writing and discussion — students discover new avenues for reading comprehension and develop tools they can return to throughout the year.

Ninth-graders give feedback on each other's sketchbooks.

POWERED BY GRATITUDE. Our fifth-grade engineers got creative for Grandparents and Special Friends Day! Students designed and coded their own circuit boards, expressing what they’re most thankful for using such literary devices as alliteration, onomatopoeia, personification, and simile. With Scratch and MaKey MaKey, their messages came to life — reading aloud whenever the board was pressed. Even grandparents and special friends joined in, forming human circuits to power the boards. A joyful blend of STEM, storytelling, and connection!

Sterling Hill Mineral Mine, exploring sparkling gems, fluorescent minerals, and the Rainbow Rock Room. They even collected their own samples and marveled at the famous New Jersey meteorite. This long-running field trip provides a hands-on, unforgettable experience for all.

COURTROOM SKILLS IN ACTION.

The Upper School Mock Trial team visited Princeton University for a training seminar, gaining insights and skills to enhance their performance. The experience enabled students to deepen their understanding of trial procedures, teamwork, and

e ective advocacy. EXPLORING AI, ONE HOUR AT A TIME. KPS students joined learners around the globe for the Hour of AI. In the Primary and Middle Schools, students tackled hands-on AI activities in their CS&E classes, while Upper School REBOOT leaders challenged

peers to complete tutorials and reflections, with the promise of a “sweatpants day” for highly engaged classes! Guest speakers across divisions o ered a glimpse into AI in professional life, inspiring students to think critically about technology’s role in the world.

Engineering a Theme Park in Eighth-Grade Science

is November, our eighth-graders traded pencils for power tools and became engineers, designers, and thrill-seekers all at once. eir mission? To create rides for the fantastical Sir Isaac’s Inertialand, an amusement park straight out of their imaginations — and Newton’s laws of motion.

e Amusement Park project is an extension of the astrophysics unit in eighthgrade science. Guided by the three S’s of engineering — safety, structure, and sustainability — students in Wendy Hall’s class drew up blueprints, built scale models, and wielded power tools . . . what emerged were colorful roller coasters, pendulum swings, and spin rides.

Each ride incorporated physics concepts learned in class, making the connections among space, free fall, and the forces that make amusement parks thrilling but safe.

Says Natalie Janiszewski ’30, “ e most exciting part of my project was witnessing our marble go through the track successfully for the rst time. Our idea came to life!”

Students documented their work in detailed journals, described safety considerations, and created websites to showcase what they were doing, incorporating progress updates and scienti c explanations.

WINNING IN THE PRIMARY SCHOOL

WINN (What I Need Now) time has quickly become one of the most energizing parts of the Primary School schedule, for students and teachers alike. WINN gives teachers a chance to support students in small-group settings and o ers students the chance to follow their curiosity and sharpen their learning skills within a clearly guided framework.

With an average of six WINN periods built into every ten-day cycle, teachers set purposeful parameters, o er just enough choice to pique interest, and then support students as they take learning a step further. Support teachers also join classrooms during WINN to reinforce specific skills — from phonics to math foundations.

In her third-grade classroom this fall, Shona Inggs created prompts centered on a “Spies” theme. The goal, she says, “was to create an exciting and meaningful context for students to think like problem-solvers, collaborate, research, and communicate information they care about.”

Students had opportunities to study spies throughout history and experiment with di erent codes and ciphers. Students were given top-secret dossiers to collect research and code-breaking prompts, then encouraged to design their own ciphers. Soon, the room was buzzing with “agent codes” and research into handmade tools such as a skytale — an ancient decoding device students crafted and used to unlock messages.

“WINN has become a great opportunity for teachers to understand students’ approaches to learning,” says Ms. Inggs.

Whether working independently, in small groups, or one-on-one with a teacher, students use their teacher-guided WINN time to pursue what they need now — and what excites them next — in a thoughtful, interdisciplinary, and structured way.

FIVE THINGS ABOUT . . .

KPS LEIP PROGRAM

Born from an action step in the Strategic Plan, the KPS Leading from Externships to Internships Program (KPS LEIP) helps students take their learning beyond the classroom and into the world. Through externships — one-to-three-day experiences that introduce them to a professional field — and internships — paid three-to-six-week summer placements — students gain insight into potential career paths, develop workplace skills, and build the confidence to lead with purpose. These opportunities encourage students to connect their academic interests with meaningful, hands-on experiences that help shape their next steps.

5

REALIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF REPRESENTATION.

All the externships and internships have one key element in common: the opportunity to meet and interact with women in senior positions in fields the students are exploring.

“Instead of having an experience centered on one person or job description, I gained a broad understanding of possible career paths within business and discovered which ones piqued my interest.”

—QUINN SARTORIUS ’26

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UNDERSTANDING THE VALUE OF PARTNERSHIPS. KPS LEIP partners with parents, alumnae, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and corporations. The opportunities are a combination of KPSfacilitated experiences (e.g., a customized application process) and a clearinghouse of external programs (e.g., a listing of internship programs with their own application process).

“Externships and internships can sharpen a student’s interests or expose her to new ideas. In health care, this exposure is especially valuable: Understanding the many stakeholders — patients, hospitals, pharmaceutical and medical device companies, insurers, physicians, and nurses — and the interactions among them helps students appreciate the complex relationships and shared goals that drive the delivery of superior care.”

—KISHORE BALLAL P ’23 ’27, HEALTHCARE ENTREPRENEUR

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DISCOVERING INTERESTS AND PURSUING PASSIONS. The KPS LEIP Program enables students to explore fields they don’t have much knowledge of and at the same time to gain a deeper understanding of an organization or area they may want to pursue more intentionally.

“I’d thought the main pipeline to the consulting world was an extensive background in economics or nance; however, I see that rms value workers from various academic backgrounds. I felt more reassured in my decision to pursue a liberal arts education, knowing that there are ‘untraditional’ routes to access the nance industry.”

—JULISSA BELTRÁN ’25

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EXPLORING CAREERS IN REAL TIME. In the last year, more than 50 students have participated in the KPS LEIP Program, and in a range of fields. Recent opportunities included shadowing practitioners at Advanced Care Oncology and Hematology Associates, spending time at the New York Stock Exchange, learning what their jobs entail from members of the Boston Consulting Group, and participating in an externship at JP Morgan with sessions on, for example, public speaking.

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FINDING THE INTERPLAY BETWEEN THEORY (EDUCATION) AND PRACTICE (WORK). It’s one thing to have some knowledge of a field, but applying what you know is another story. Through KPS LEIP, students can apply many of the transferable skills learned in their classrooms — from problem-solving to working toward collective goals and from the art of communication to making feedback more actionable — in real boardrooms.

“I liked the Boston Consulting Group’s presentation activity: It enabled me to work on my public speaking skills and directly confront an area I know I need to improve.”

—SASHA

GRINIS ’26

A Dynasty on the Courts

As Athletic Director, I recognize that achieving and sustaining excellence in any sport requires a strong foundation and a shared commitment across the entire program.

us, I’m delighted that our Varsity Tennis Dragons did more than win: is year they earned their 10th-consecutive Union County Tournament championship. is incredible victory was powered by team unity, the depth of talent of our players, and the dedication of their coaches, from Middle School, to JV, through Varsity. Let me elaborate.

Athletic success begins long before players reach the Upper School. For the majority of our tennis players, the path into the program starts in Middle School, when they learn the fundamental skills, a culture of sportsmanship, and the value of self-con dence. is ensures that players develop technically while

absorbing the teamwork and resilience that de ne Kent Place athletics.

In the Upper School, both our junior varsity and varsity programs are top notch. is year, the JV team made history by winning the inaugural Big Blue JV Invitational. Watching these players compete with such strength is testament to the lessons they learned from their coaches, and their success underscores the steady growth of our program and the bright future ahead.

And that brings us back to our Varsity Dragons and their extraordinary feat this year. “For the rst time on record, according to the Union County Interscholastic Athletic Conference, Kent Place swept all ve ights, earning a perfect team score of 100 points — an achievement never before accomplished in Union County Tourna-

ment history,” says Varsity Head Coach Dave Phimsipasom, who has coached the team since 2011.

A perfect sweep requires skill, depth, discipline, and resilience across the roster. Our Varsity Tennis team delivered all four — cementing the program as one of the most dominant in county history.

Our tennis program has cultivated talented, con dent, disciplined young women. e coaches’ mentorship and their commitment to the growth of every player are behind our decade-long record of excellence — what can be considered a tradition of excellence: one player, one practice, one match at a time.

DRAGONS REPRESENT TEAM

USA. Kent Place Dragons Caitlyn Quinn ’26 and Isabella Builione ’28 are representing Kent Place — and the United States — at the highest levels. Caitlyn earned a spot on the 2025 U17 and U19 USA Lacrosse Youth National Teams, competing in the Rivalry Challenge and the Brogden Cup. Bella advanced to the U16 and U18 USA Field Hockey Junior Women’s National Team Selection Camps and was selected for the U16 National Team.

LEADING WITH CONNECTION: AVA BUILIONE ’26

Ava Builione ’26 embodies what it means to be a Kent Place Dragon — dedicated, joyful, and committed to her teams. Playing Varsity Field Hockey and Varsity Ice Hockey since her freshman year, she capped o her senior fall by serving as captain of the 2025 Field Hockey team, leading with a style she describes as “very vocal” and rooted in connection. “A group can achieve success only when everyone shares an overarching goal,” she says. “As a captain, I promoted this culture . . . and always led with positivity when talking to teammates.”

Athletics, she says, has been the highlight of her KPS experience. “It’s always been the part of my day I look forward to most,” she says. The friendships she has formed have shaped her time in the Upper School just as much as structure and discipline have helped her thrive academically.

Says Head Field Hockey Coach Kerrie Burns, “Ava adds to the success of other players. She keeps a good pulse on what the team needs at any moment. She’s coachable and personable — the type of athlete any coach would want on the field.”

Ava credits her coaches as her biggest mentors: “They care about each person as not only an athlete but also a person.” And among her favorite memories? Playing alongside both of her sisters in both sports and celebrating such moments as winning the NJISAA Tournament in 2024.

Hitting the Ground Running

is fall, Varsity Cross Country ran its way through a season to remember. Guided by incoming Head Coach Francesca Petracco and with the leadership of veteran athletes, the Dragons created an environment that encouraged hard work, progress, and focus. Upperclasswomen even recruited their track teammates to try out for the sport, welcoming new runners with open arms.

“From a training standpoint, we gradu-

ally built up to more challenging workouts throughout the season, focusing on patience, adaptation, and trust,” says Coach Petracco. “Incorporating conversations around goal-setting made a noticeable impact on the athletes’ con dence and mindset.”

Pre-race meetings, strategy talks, and attention to fuel and sleep prepared the team for every challenge. Mental downtime, too, was important. “Culturally,” says

Coach Petracco, “we prioritized balance by giving the athletes days to just be students, whether it was playing soccer with Coach Browne and Coach Luna or shooting hoops in the gym. ose moments kept the team connected and energized.”

One of the highlights was the team’s rst meet of the season, the Roxbury Invitational, when the athletes hit the ground running — literally — and placed second overall.

DRAGONS DOMINATE

From undefeated streaks to championship titles and personal milestones, our Dragons dominated the fall season, leaving a lasting mark on every court, field, and track. Here are some of the highlights.

Cross Country: Third place at the Union County Conference meet in the Watchung Division

Varsity Field Hockey: Reached semifinals of the Union County and NJSIAA Tournaments. Reached the finals of the NJISAA Tournament.

Varsity Soccer: Won the Valley Division with a 5-0 record

Varsity Tennis: Watchung Division and Union County Tournament champions and Union County Conference Team of the Year

JV Tennis: Undefeated, 11-0 season and Big Blue Invitational champions

Varsity Volleyball: 16 wins and semifinal appearances in the NJSIAA and NJISAA Tournaments

Keira Kapur ’26, Tennis: Named Union County Conference Player of the Year

Summer Rae Sharma ’29, Cross Country: Clocked a personal best of 19:54 at the Meet of Champions

How Two Cochairs A rm Lifelong Benefits of Language Learning

In a department devoted to communication, it’s tting that its leadership model thrives on dialogue. e World Language program is guided by cochairs whose partnership spans divisions, perspectives, and decades of experience. Dora Gragg, who became cochair for the Primary School through Grade 6 in 2023–24, has spent 28 years helping shape the school’s approach to language education. And Sandra Medina, who joined her as cochair for Grades 7–12 in 2024–25, brings a fresh approach informed by contemporary pedagogy that bene ts a range of learning styles, technological integration, and global trends in language learning.

Together, they have a clear mission: “We both wanted to provide a positive learning experience for all students — that’s been our top priority,” they say. is year, their col-

laboration means consulting with specialists, attending workshops, aligning 12 department members, and gathering data to build a comprehensive action plan that supports all types of learners.

eir co-leadership works because it’s built on mutual respect and their di erent strengths. Sra. Gragg o ers a wealth of institutional knowledge — “information that’s necessary before we propose changes or introduce new ideas,” she says — and Dr. Medina contributes a comfort with innovative methods and emerging tools. ey laugh easily about their dynamic. Sra. Gragg once joked to Dr. Medina’s mother that “Dr. Medina keeps me running,” an a ectionate acknowledgment of their rhythm and pace. What unites them, they say, is simple: “We complement each other.” at synergy is felt throughout the department.

Perhaps what makes their partnership most powerful is that it mirrors what they hope students will experience — curiosity, collaboration, and the joy of communication. “Learning a language gives students a new perspective to see the world,” they say. “You learn how other people think, what they appreciate, what they care about. You learn to empathize.”

Looking ahead, they’re energized by the creative work already happening in Chinese, French, Latin, and Spanish classrooms and by the con dence they see growing in students. eir hope is both straightforward and far-reaching: that students will carry their language skills into college, careers, and travels. Because at Kent Place, learning a language isn’t just academic — it also enriches a connected life.

SNAPSHOTS FROM AFAR: FACULTY TRAVEL ADVENTURES

Every year, Kent Place celebrates its educators with travel grants that open doors to new cultures, fresh ideas, and unforgettable experiences. After their Arthur J. Conley Faculty Travel Grant and the E. J. Grassmann Faculty Award, teachers return with inspiration and insights to share with our students and the broader school community. This year, four members of the faculty selected a favorite photo from their travel — and told the story behind it.

ROBIN VERSH, PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER

SPAIN: A FAMILY ADVENTURE IN SEVILLE

My husband, our two sons, and I enjoyed an unforgettable trip to Spain. Every city had its own unique charm: Among the highlights were a thrilling motorcycle sidecar tour of Barcelona; a soccer match between Atletico Madrid and Barcelona; a five-hour food tour in Madrid; and wandering through the stunning Alhambra in Granada. The photo you see here captures our family just after leaving the Real Alcázar in Seville.

This trip was particularly special because it was the first time my spring break aligned with my children’s. With our oldest about to graduate from college, the timing enabled us to immerse ourselves in a new culture together and create memories that will last a lifetime.

LISA COHEN, UPPER SCHOOL ENGLISH TEACHER

GERMANY: LAYERS OF HISTORY IN THE COURT GARDEN

The Hofgarten is part of the Munich Residence, what was once a royal palace. Like many other places I’ve visited, it’s a site of great beauty but also of tragic history. In one corner of the garden stands a monument to the White Rose Movement, which honors the students who resisted the Nazis. Behind me, in the center of the garden, is the Diana Temple.

My trip was a way to experience the many layers a place can hold — geographically and spiritually. I felt lucky to be there on a beautiful day, but I also carried with me an awareness of the violence, division, and rebuilding this site has witnessed over the past century.

NADINE BERNARD, UPPER SCHOOL

FRENCH AND SPANISH TEACHER

SÉNÉGAL: FIRST DAY BY THE WATER

This photo shows our group on the first day of our trip to Sénégal. We were a mix of French teachers from the United States and Canada, and although we didn’t know exactly what to expect, we were open-minded and ready for anything.

Once there, we explored the area around Dakar, then traveled about 70 km south and east to visit local communities and experience traditional cuisine. What struck me most were the warmth and hospitality of the people we met and the sense of adventure we all shared as we navigated new experiences together.

KRISTEN EMMEL, PRIMARY/MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH COORDINATOR

ITALY: LA BELLA VITA, SHARED ACROSS GENERATIONS

The Conley Travel Grant gave me the opportunity to take my father to Italy and spend a week with him on the Amalfi Coast. My father, a third-generation Italian American — who recently celebrated his 75th birthday — was thrilled to return to Italy and show me around for my first visit.

During our stay, we lived by the phrase la bella vita. We slowed our pace, took in the beautiful coastal views, spoke with many locals, and ate some of the most amazing meals. Having this one-on-one time with my dad was an invaluable gift. Seeing his joy gave me joy, and now that I’m home, I continue to think back on all the wonderful experiences we got to have together.

Down the Rabbit Hole, Center Stage

Our Upper School cast transformed the South Orange Performing Arts Center into a world of wonder with their production of Alice by Heart. ese photos capture the moments of magic, daring, and joy that de ned their leap from our campus theater to a professional stage — and echo the show’s central reminder to hold on to who you are, no matter how strange the world may become.

All That Jazz — Club, That Is

e Upper School Jazz Club is proving that a great idea — and a little improvisation — can spark an exciting new chapter in music at Kent Place. Launched in 2023–24 by Sawyer Pappas ’24, who was eager to explore jazz beyond the pieces occasionally tackled by the Symphony Orchestra, the club began as a trio and has now blossomed into a dazzling ten-member ensemble. With utes, trumpets, guitars, bass, piano, drums, trombone, and clarinet all in the mix, the band o ers a colorful sound palette and an equally dynamic community.

Under the guidance of professional jazz musicians and faculty advisors Allison Philips and Nick Scheuble, with ensemble oversight from Orchestra Director Terrence ornhill, students get to experience one of America’s original art forms. “To learn jazz is to learn the language of creative collaboration within a musical genre that spans more than a century,” says Mr. ornhill. e group meets

weekly to explore a blend of faculty-selected and custom-arranged pieces.

Now in its third year and currently under the leadership of seniors Ella Culligan and Ava Lewis, the ensemble has continued to grow its presence on campus. Fresh o their performance at the Upper School’s Day After STAR event, the musicians have become a staple at Kent Place Gallery openings and will take the stage again at the Arts Festival this spring. “We’re a small but incredibly dedicated group, and that gives everyone the space to really learn, get direct feedback, and be creative,” Ella says. “We tailor our arrangements and rehearsals to whoever walks into the room, regardless of the instrument or experience level, and it’s been amazing to watch everyone gain con dence improvising and taking risks. Seeing the club expand from just a few members to the ensemble we have now has been one of my favorite parts.”

“Performing at KPS has helped me build more confidence, encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone, and led to meaningful connections with peers that share the same passion as me.”

—ANA MONTEIRO ’27 ON WHY PERFORMING IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF HER SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

PLAYING THE PIT

For the first time in Kent Place School history, students played alongside professionals in the pit orchestra. The occasion was this year’s Upper School play: Alice by Heart. Seniors Kate Lee, Lauren Herman, and Skylar Li — close friends and standout musicians — helped bring the show’s whimsical, rock-infused score to life from their seats just beneath the stage.

All three have spent years performing in orchestral settings, but the pit presented a brandnew challenge. Unlike a traditional concert, where the ensemble is the central focus, pit musicians are collaborators, blending seamlessly with actors and adjusting on the fly.

“I found playing in the pit to be so much more fun,” said Kate (violin), explaining that

she loved listening and reacting to the singers just feet away. Lauren (French horn) agreed, noting that the smaller, more intimate ensemble required a new level of awareness: “For the first time,” she said, “I needed to support live actors and remain hyperaware of spontaneous tempo changes and cues.”

Though they spend time together in Orchestra, their combination of violin, horn, and clarinet rarely calls for a joint performance. That made this collaboration — and the handwritten parts arranged for them by Music Director Neil Ginsberg — all the more special. “We’ve wanted to perform together for years,” Lauren said. “Despite rarely accomplishing that, playing in the pit felt natural.”

“The main di erence I found was the importance of adapting and listening,” said Skylar (clarinet). “I felt I had more responsibility to listen to the singers, watch as Mr. Ginsberg cued me, and tweak my playing as needed.”

Playing side by side with professional musicians, among them faculty members Mr. Thornhill (cello), Mr. Ginsberg (piano), and Nick Scheuble (percussion), elevated the experience. The seniors soaked up stories, techniques, and the calm confidence of seasoned performers. And tackling the show’s eclectic musical styles — from rock to jazz — pushed all of them to experiment and expand their sound.

In the end, the trio say the pit was a gift: a chance to grow, to support a vibrant production, and to make music with friends in a way they’ll never forget.

A WINTER TALE TAKES THE STAGE. Our fifth-graders brought Stacey Lane’s Snow Queen to life with a wonderful mix of imagination and enthusiasm. The story carried us through icy landscapes and enchanting adventures as Gerda set out to rescue Kai. Along the way, the cast filled the stage with friendship, courage, and heart, sharing moments of laughter and magic that made this year’s production unforgettable.

Fifth-graders embrace the magic of the Snow Queen.

The Show Goes On

Last year, as we faced the challenge of continuing theater, dance, and music performances without a stage in the Hyde and Watson eater, we knew one thing for certain: e show had to go on. at meant nding new homes for every performance and new teaching spaces for theater and dance classes.

us, our team of great minds got to work — brainstorming, imagining, and embracing the creative possibilities ahead.

We knew our thespians in Primary School would perform best in the spaces they knew best. And what fun it was to

watch Snow Queen unfold in a transformed Hauser Hall — an arctic adventure right in their own backyard. Seeing and hearing our youngest performers acting con dently in a space that felt like home was a testament to their growth as artists.

In Middle School, our theater students took readily to their new teaching and performance space — the Commons Room. e familiarity grounded them, enabling their focus and creativity to shine. We look forward to their performance of Alice in Wonderland in April, in a fairytale transformation of Atwood Hall — another space that’s very

familiar to our Middle School students.

Meanwhile, our Upper School students had the thrill of performing in a professional venue: the South Orange Performing Arts Center. e production of Alice by Heart became our biggest learning experience of the year.

We scouted scene shops across the region to nd a place to build the set. In the end, with a healthy dose of good weather, our set builder worked out of his own front yard and the back entrance to the Music Wing. Visual arts students jumped in as collaborators, turning studios and outdoor spaces into

large-scale set-painting workshops. Looking ahead to February’s winter play — and its decidedly less cooperative weather — we were able to plan more strategically, thanks to the generosity and partnership of the Newark Academy theater community. One key revelation from the Alice by Heart adventure? A furniture-moving company is, in fact, the most e cient way to transport a set.

Traveling to and from KPS to an o -campus venue also brought unexpected joy. Daily train rides became mini– eld trips lled with laughter and bonding. Watching the students look after one another was a beautiful reminder of the cooperative spirit we’ve developed.

Our dancers have also embraced new spaces. Middle and Upper School dancers now rehearse in the upgraded Choral Room in Mabie House — which now boasts a Marley oor and a new sound system, which have elevated both their technique and their con dence. We debuted our Middle School dance performances in Atwood Hall, whose increased capacity made it possible for more families to witness the remarkable sixthgrade Rain Dance and the Dancemakers’ moving presentation of Amelia Earhart’s Flight. In May, An Evening of Dance will take the stage at the Bickford eater at the Morris Museum.

Music performances will continue both on and o campus. On campus, all three divisions will bring great music to the Great Room. And with Middle and Upper School Orchestras each nearing 90 students, we quickly realized that transporting a massive percussion section is not an ideal undertaking. So for now, orchestral concerts will stay right here at KPS. Our Choral Showcase, however, will move to Summit’s St. Teresa of Avila Church, whose stunning acoustics will serve our singers beautifully. rough every transition and every logistical curveball, our students have risen, adapted, and thrived. is year has proved, once again, that spaces may change, but the heart of the arts at KPS remains constant, resilient, and full of life. e show goes on — and it goes on with joy.

Edel omas, Director of Performing Arts, is in her 34th year teaching at KPS.

JOY IN MOTION

Middle School dance at Kent Place pulses with energy — and much of it is sparked by Malcolm McMichael. A former dancer with Graham 2 (a company that comprises many of the advanced students from the Martha Graham School) and now a freelance artist, collaborator, and teacher, he brings a blend of artistry and warmth to the studio. Since joining KPS, in 2023, he has become a dynamic presence, helping students discover how movement can build confidence, ignite creativity, and open doors far beyond the stage.

Here, Mr. McMichael explains the five reasons he loves teaching Middle School dance at Kent Place — and how this age group keeps him on his toes in the best possible way.

1. I love helping Middle School students with their confidence. Whether it’s their first dance experience or their 400th, it’s beautiful to see them get stronger, more coordinated, and more sure of themselves as they explore movement.

2. There’s tremendous diversity within the Kent Place studio. Students of di erent cultures, sizes, and backgrounds come together to experience the joy of dance, and that’s a big part of why I love teaching them.

3. A few years ago, Kent Place began Open Dance Class presentations. It’s been amazing: Some of the shyest students become powerful performers in front of an audience — one made up of parents, faculty, and peers.

4. Our students are remarkably creative. In fact, some of their ideas have turned out to be my favorite moments in choreography. For a recent sixth-grade presentation, for example, a student wondered: “What if this side reaches left, the opposite reaches right, and the center reaches to the middle?” We tried that, and it immediately added more dimension to the piece. I’m always open to collaborating with our students.

5. Our Middle School students have their own points of view and are more than willing to express them, so every class o ers me feedback on my teaching approach. Because no two groups are the same, I’m always gaining new insights on how to keep students joyful, engaged, and also challenged.

Life

at PlaceKent

Sixteen

seniors have spent almost their entire academic lives at Kent Place. Here, they reflect on how the school influenced them.

By Erin PEtErson | PhotograPhy By laura Barisonzi

There are few places that shape a person from childhood to the edge of adulthood. For these 16 seniors, Kent Place is one of them.

Known as “lifers” — students who began their education at Kent Place, in Preschool, Kindergarten, or first grade — they’ve grown up within a community that knows them well. And they know what it means to be challenged and then supported, to take big swings, to speak up, and to lead.

Over time — measured not in trimesters but in stages of childhood and adolescence — they’ve absorbed the school’s 16-word mission not as words on a page, but as lived experience.

What follows are their thoughts on the moments that shaped them, the lessons that Kent Place instilled in them, and the values they will retain. Together, their stories provide a portrait of what it means to grow up at Kent Place.

“I’ve always felt part of a community that embraces both success and struggle, which makes taking risks feel less intimidating. I know there will always be people who want to see me grow.”

—SASHA GRINIS, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE ARCHITECTURE CLUB, A MEMBER OF THE VARSITY VOLLEYBALL TEAM, A GREEN KEY TOUR GUIDE, AND A SENIOR MENTOR

“My favorite place on campus is the Lower Field during the spring, because I can lie in the sun while doing my homework or run around with friends. There’s a really nice view of the rest of campus there.”

—OLIVIA PETERS, CO-PRESIDENT OF GREEN KEY, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF LODESTAR (THE ETHICS JOURNAL), CO-PRESIDENT OF THE KP DEMOCRATS, SENIOR REPRESENTATIVE FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS, AND A MEMBER OF THE CHAMBER DANCERS

They started o with a strong foundation . . .

From the moment they arrived at Kent Place, these 16 students knew they were seen and appreciated: ey were at home. ey recount these early days with all of their sensory joys: soaring to ever-higher heights on the playground swings, slurping “strawberry soup” from the Dining Hall, and singing “Sweet Caroline” to energize themselves after lunch.

For Sasha Grinis, that feeling of home was rooted in a relationship with Primary School teacher Jennison Lee. “Every afternoon, she stood at the door and asked each of us whether we wanted a handshake, a hug, or a high ve. I chose ‘hug’ every time,” Sasha says. “I remember feeling an immediate sense of security.”

and found fast friends who now know them better than almost anyone else.

Olivia Peters marvels at the fact that the girls she met in her rst days of Kindergarten are some of her closest friends today. “I’ve never felt judged, alone, or like I didn’t belong,” she says. “ ere’s nothing like the sisterhood that Kent Place brings out in its students.”

Years of growing up together give these friendships a unique depth, says Claire Cherill; she can reference a story from third grade and know that many of her classmates will nod along. “Having this shared history makes what we learn from one another that much more meaningful,” she says, “and deepens the community we’ve been creating for as long as we can remember.”

“The Ethics Institute has been a huge part of my experience. I’ve learned how to have difficult conversations, I’ve identified values that are important to me, I’ve learned to express and defend my point of view, and I’ve learned to be open to new ideas and perspectives.”

—CLAIRE CHERILL, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF LODESTAR (THE ETHICS JOURNAL) AND A MEMBER OF THE ETHICS BOWL TEAM. SHE PARTICIPATES IN THE BIOETHICS PROJECT AND IS CAPTAIN OF THE UPPER SCHOOL SCIENCE OLYMPIAD TEAM.

With support, they rose to new challenges . . .

such as public speaking . . .

“In sixth grade, I took a public speaking course with Ms. Freiler that changed the way I approached talking in front of people. I used to hate speaking to a crowd and would get very nervous every time I had to stand up and talk.

“But this class pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and face the thing I dreaded the most.

“I remember one class where we had to pick a story and present it without looking at our notes. I was terri ed, but I was surrounded by a teacher and classmates who wanted me to succeed, and that made me feel comfortable enough to try.

“Even though my sixth-grade self was so happy when the class ended, I’m now grateful for everything it taught me.”

—Maya Hardy

and creating . .

.

“In eighth grade, Mr. ornhill gave me an opportunity to have one of my pieces (‘Winter Snowstorm’) performed by the Middle School Orchestra.

“It was an amazing feeling to see a piece I’d worked so hard on performed and acknowledged by so many people. It was exciting when I got to hear it in its full potential.

“When I bowed in front of the audience, I felt a surge of pride. One day, I’ll stand on an even bigger stage and bow after conducting the performance of my own piece.”

— erese Tsang

“Being surrounded by people who show up fully has enabled me to develop an unapologetically me mindset that I carry with me at Kent Place and beyond.”

—SUPRIYA KAMILLA, PRESIDENT OF THE SOCIAL COMMITTEE AND A MEMBER OF THE ETHICS BOWL TEAM, PARTICIPATES IN FIELD HOCKEY, TRACK, THE UPPER SCHOOL V.O.I.C.E. (VALUING OUTREACH IN COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT) COMMITTEE, GREEN KEY, AND THE FILM CLUB

“I’m proud to have been a part of the Kent Place fencing team, to have nurtured its community by mentoring teammates, and to celebrate all that our team has achieved.”

—THERESE TSANG, MEMBER OF THE ORCHESTRA, VARSITY FENCING, AND THE AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE CLUB

and performing.

“My junior year, I sang the opening solo in our annual STAR concert. At rst, I was nervous and doubtful, but as soon as I sang the rst note, I felt empowered.

“From rehearsal to showtime, my peers cheered me on every step of the way. at unwavering support is what enabled me to step up to the microphone.”

—Anne Bugliari

“I’ll definitely miss all of our traditions. Nothing will ever top the lipsync battle. Fun fact: The Class of 2026 has been undefeated in the lip sync battle all four years of high school.”

—ANNE BUGLIARI, CAPTAIN OF THE VARSITY SOCCER, BASKETBALL, AND GOLF TEAMS. SHE’S A MEMBER OF THE CHAMBER SINGERS, THE HONOR COUNCIL, AND GREEN KEY, AND IS A CO-LEADER OF THE KP REPUBLICANS AND INDEPENDENTS CLUB.

“KPS taught me that leadership isn’t loud or hierarchical. It can look like mentoring someone younger, stepping back to make space for someone else, or holding the team together in tough moments. I learned to lead by collaboration rather than competition.”

—MEDHA

SAHAY, ACTIVE IN ROBOTICS, STARBOARD , MODEL UN, AND THE ORCHESTRA, AND HAS DEVELOPED AN INDEPENDENT STUDY

“Ms. Jyotishi and Ms. Nunnink always made my day better. Every time I stopped by the School Store, they greeted me with a smile and a quick conversation that instantly lifted my mood.”

—JENNA CAREY, PRESIDENT OF ECONLIFE, FOUNDER AND CO-PRESIDENT OF THE BIBLE CONNECTIONS CLUB, AND ENGAGEMENT CO-LEADER FOR REBOOT. SHE’S ALSO A MEMBER OF THE ORCHESTRA AND THE MERAKI ORCHESTRA.

As they evolved, so did the school . . .

e students weren’t the only ones growing at Kent Place — the campus itself underwent signi cant transformations along the way. “Growing up at Kent Place was almost like growing up with the school,” says Ava Lewis.

Construction projects, such as the Center for Innovation, COVID-era adaptations in and outside the classroom, and the new Leadership Center, have led to a campus that is more expansive and forward-looking — yet also recognizably itself.

Ava sees plenty of parallels: “ e changes have symbolized how I, too, have not just physically changed but also rebuilt, expanded, and shaped myself into someone who has grown in con dence, curiosity, and passion.”

“I love classical painting and classical artists, and having a class block devoted to studying what I love has been one of my favorite things about my time at KPS. I’ll have a solo show in the KP Gallery at the end of the year, and that will be my proudest accomplishment.”

—WILLA GROSS, HEAD STAGE MANAGER FOR THE MUSICALS INTO THE WOODS AND ALICE BY HEART . SHE IS CO–DEPUTY EDITOR OF STARBOARD AND A MEMBER AND MANAGER OF THE VARSITY SQUASH TEAM.

“I always checked in with my Spanish teacher, Dr. Neacsu, before going home on the bus. I appreciated that two-minute interaction every afternoon. It also helped me get even better at my Spanish-speaking skills!”

—AVA LEWIS, CAPTAIN OF VARSITY SOFTBALL, A GIRLS’ LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE MENTOR, A JAZZ CLUB LEADER, AND A MEMBER OF THE BLACK CULTURAL ASSOCIATION

“Freshman year, Mr. Thornhill, our Orchestra teacher, told me to ‘play loudly, even if it’s a little wrong.’ I don’t think he realized the impact it had on me, but it’s a quote I certainly took to heart.”

—TARA KHURANA, CO-LEADER OF THE REBOOT “TAPPING IN” PODCAST, PRESIDENT OF THE PHILOSOPHY CLUB, AND A MEMBER OF THE ETHICS

BOWL

TEAM, KALEIDOSCOPES MENTORING, AND BUILDING UP INCLUSIVE LEADERS IN DIVERSITY

but they always found and created spaces that felt like home.

If the lifers have a single universally loved space on campus, it may be the grade lounge — “the heart of the Upper School,” says Jenna Carey. “Some of my best memories at school happened there, like cheering when a friend walked in after passing her driver’s test and playing music and dancing on a Friday afternoon.” Says Anne Bugliari, “My friends and I have laughed, celebrated, cried, and even gotten in trouble in the lounge. It’s a space full of memories.”

For Tara Khurana, home is in the Center for Innovation study booths. “ ey’re always alive with students from all grades, both studying and being social,” she says.

And while many of the spaces they love are beautiful — the windows near the Great Room that overlook the courtyard, for example — the most meaningful ones are those that remind them of their most ful lling experiences. “One of my favorite places at KPS is the former Hyde and Watson eater,” says Cecília Hirawat. “A lot of my favorite memories are in the dressing room getting ready, on the ladder to the catwalk, and on the stage on Saturdays painting sets.”

“One thing I’m really proud to have accomplished at Kent Place is being a part of the dance program. I’ve pushed myself artistically, taken on leadership roles in rehearsals, and helped support younger dancers as they gain confidence. Being part of a community that values creativity and hard work is something I’m very grateful for.”

—COOPER GROGAN HAS BEEN SENATE VICE PRESIDENT, SECRETARY, AND GRADE REPRESENTATIVE. SHE IS A GREEN KEY TOUR GUIDE AND SENIOR MENTOR, A PEER ED LEADER, AND A CHAMBER DANCER.

Kent Place was where they learned to lead . . .

Kent Place teaches leadership not as an abstract ideal, but as a daily practice. at idea clicked for Cooper Grogan in a moment that felt ordinary at rst — a Green Key tour with a nervous prospective student. “As I walked her through the school and answered her questions, I realized I was showing con dence, kindness, and leadership in a real way,” she says. “Helping her feel comfortable made me understand how much Kent Place encourages us to grow into thoughtful and supportive leaders.”

Willa Gross, who has taken on top roles in the arts, athletics, and the media, says KPS’s culture helped shape her sense of what was possible. “KPS has made taking on leadership roles feel natural,” she says. “I grew up in an environment where girls were expected to step forward and become leaders.”

“I’ll never forget my senior-year Spanish class with Dr. Medina, AP Spanish Literature. One of my hobbies is reading, and I love feeling capable with my abilities in Spanish.”

—EVELYNE MENDELSOHN, MEMBER OF THE CHAMBER SINGERS, PERFORMED IN LITTLE WOMEN AND INTO THE WOODS , SERVED AS A LEADER FOR GLAM’D AND THE BAGGYWRINKLE POETRY CLUB, AND IS A REPRESENTATIVE ON THE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE.

and to use their voice.

Two years ago, when Supriya Kamilla was at a pitch competition, she joined a team of four boys and one other girl. e boys seemed intent on dominating the conversation, but Kamilla knew that the ideas her female teammate and she had were worth hearing. “Growing up in Kent Place’s environment, where authenticity is cherished, I had the con dence to speak up,” she says. “I understood the value of my voice.”

e girls pushed for their idea — and ultimately used it in the competition.

For Evelyne Mendelsohn, the value of speaking up is something that Kent Place teaches both explicitly and implicitly. “We’ve been in a unique position to know that positions of leadership surrounding us were held by women,” she says. “I never fear standing up in front of a crowd and voicing my opinion because it’s simply normal to me.”

Now, they will go o to pursue their biggest dreams, grounded in the values Kent Place instilled . . .

As Medha Sahay looks ahead, she dreams of a career in engineering — fueled by the ethical mindset she developed at Kent Place. “Technological skill alone isn’t enough,” she says. “ e harder part is deciding why we build something and who it impacts. KPS taught me to question assumptions, consider the consequences of innovation, and speak up when something doesn’t feel right. I’ll take that mindset with me.”

Reilly Dangler says her ambition, guided by a clear sense of what’s right, will propel her. “I’ll carry with me the idea that I should be a kind student and person, but shouldn’t be afraid to go after the things I want.”

and they’ll never forget the place that made them who they are.

With graduation on the horizon, with gratitude they look back on what Kent Place has given them and the paths they’ve taken.

“I’ve gone from learning how to read in the Primary School to nding out what I’m passionate about in the Upper School — all in the same community,” says Jenna Carey. “I’m grateful that I learned my alphabet in the same place I learned who I want to be. Growing up at Kent Place is a huge part of who I am.”

“I’m grateful that I got to participate in the Bioethics Program. I still use the skills I learned in that class when I participate in conversations, and they help me stay open to new perspectives.”

—MAYA HARDY, PRESIDENT OF STUDENT AFFAIRS, CO-PRESIDENT OF THE COMMUNITY LIFE STUDENT TASKFORCE, CO-PRESIDENT OF THE DIVERSITY COUNCIL, CO-PRESIDENT OF THE BLACK CULTURAL ASSOCIATION, AND A CAPTAIN OF THE VARSITY VOLLEYBALL AND SOFTBALL TEAMS.

“Going to a school for girls has taught me to not be afraid to step into leadership positions. I’m not afraid to go after things I’m passionate about, even if I’m nervous.”

—REILLY

DANGLER, CLASS SECRETARY, A CAPTAIN OF THE VARSITY SOCCER TEAM, AND A MEMBER OF THE CHAMBER SINGERS AND GREEN KEY

“I’ll never forget Ms. James, who taught the ‘Rainbows’ section of Kindergarten. She’s always so positive and made every one of her students feel understood.”

—CECÍLIA HIRAWAT, CO-PRESIDENT OF THE COMMUNITY LIFE STUDENT TASKFORCE, CO-LEADER OF THE DISABILITY EDUCATION ALLIANCE, CO-PRESIDENT OF GENDER SEXUALITY ALLIANCE, AND ALSO TAKES PART IN THEATER PRODUCTIONS.

IIMichelle Murphy’s Most Important Number

After 25 years at Kent Place, the Upper School Dean knows the number that captures her life’s work.

BY ERIN PETERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETER CHOLLICK

BEFORE MICHELLE MURPHY was named Dean of the Upper School, she was a math teacher at Kent Place. So of course (of course!) she has a favorite number: 1,922.

It might be considered an unusual choice for a numbers whiz — perhaps pi might be more appropriate? Or the golden ratio?

But to understand the meaning behind that number, it helps to go back to her earliest days on campus.

Mrs. Murphy arrived at Kent Place in 2001. e reason was fairly prosaic: She had been working at an independent school in Brooklyn but was living in New Jersey, and the commute was crushing. As she cast about for options closer to home, Kent Place stood out.

She saw immediately that the school brought exceptional rigor to its teaching — and that students were ready and motivated to learn. e combination energized her.

She realized that no matter where students were in their mathematical preparation when they arrived as ninth-graders, they brought an openness and curiosity to the work. She aimed to bolster that by giving them early, achievable wins that helped them trust their own abilities. “After you build their con dence, they’ll try almost any challenge,” she says.

In addition to teaching math, Mrs. Murphy was charged with launching and growing the Math Lab enrichment and support service. It was a program that bene ted from her talent for putting anxious students at ease, her mastery of complicated scheduling, and her steady leadership. It also gave her a broader view of the school and student needs that made her move to Dean of the Upper School, in 2006, feel like a natural next step.

Soon, she was handling logistics for clubs and organizations, shepherding myriad Kent Place traditions, and managing the complex dance of communication among parents, teachers, advisors, administrators, and students.

Her colleagues see daily just how deftly she handles it all. “Michelle is the essential glue that holds together the Upper School student experience,” says Director of Athletics Vicky Browne. e role’s fast pace and wide scope t Mrs. Murphy’s personality perfectly. In addition to performing her daily tasks (which often start before she arrives on campus: 6:45 each morning), she is a self-described “keeper of information” — the one, for example, who remembers the students who have sisters in college or the Middle School. She’s also the one who whispers calming last-minute tips to

“Michelle is the essential glue that holds together the Upper School student experience.”

—VICKY BROWNE, DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

nervous graduating seniors before they walk down the Daisy Chain to receive their diploma at Commencement.

But it’s not the volume of tasks or details that stand out to colleagues: It’s the humanity she brings to every interaction.

Director of Performing Arts Edel omas says she especially appreciated the skills Mrs. Murphy brought as she supported Ms. omas’s rst year directing STAR, in 2008. “While I focused on the artistic vision, Michelle kept her heart centered on the students,” Ms. omas says. “She always knew what students needed — when to push, when to pause, or when a small treat or a moment of cheer could transform a long rehearsal into a lasting memory. She thought constantly about how to make the experience not only successful, but also nurturing.”

Mrs. Murphy is also someone who raises her hand — perhaps more often than she should, she jokes — to help well beyond her job description. When a previous registrar resigned, she stepped in; when a sophomore sleepover needed a chaperone, she volunteered; when the new catering service was slammed at lunch, she served pizza. “Is there anything I won’t do?” she muses. She thinks for a moment. “Well, yes. Don’t ask me to drive the bus.”

After almost two decades as Dean, it’s obvious that Mrs. Murphy knows how to do her job. But she says that having her own daughters, Erynn ’17 and Keili ’20, at Kent Place gave her a unique level of lived experience. And she’s translated that experience, that empathy, into meaningful changes at the school.

For example, when she was at an away swim meet to cheer for one of her daughters, parent after parent came up to talk with her. “It made me realize that Kent Place teachers and administrators should be at more athletics events, and not just the ones on campus,” she says. “And now we are.”

Mrs. Murphy has even adapted some of Kent Place’s longest-running traditions in ways that feel even more inclusive. For example, Step Sing once involved only Upper School sisters, but she found ways for younger siblings to participate in the spring farewell tradition, such as holding signs and surprising seniors during graduation week. “I’m always asking: How will this work for the community?” she says.

Which gets us back to that number, 1,922.

It’s the number of students who have passed through the Upper School since she arrived on campus.

Because even though her days are lled with hundreds of tiny tasks, every single one of them — every math lesson she’s taught, every slice of pizza she’s served, every bit of grounding wisdom she’s o ered to a jittery graduating senior — is about making a positive di erence for students and for the greater Kent Place community. “I’ll always give my 110 percent here,” she says. “I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”

“The Machines Move

BY LAURA J. COLE

That Our Markets”

Following KPS Students as They Take On the Bloomberg Terminals

Aticker tape spins around an upper wall of a room in the Center for Innovation, overlooking 12 formidable sets of double monitors — arranged in a circle — each one splashing out complex graphs and streams of data. Students huddle over their screens, conjuring up the image of an investment banking o ce. In fact, it’s Kent Place’s cutting-edge Bloomberg Finance Lab, among the state’s first ever in an all-girls school.

The new facility has computers enabled with Bloomberg Terminal software, giving teachers and students access to real-time, high-quality financial data, news, and earnings reports from companies around the world. These Terminals also provide information on government legislation, company research, and a host of analytical tools, all at students’ fingertips.

For those taking an economics or financial literacy course, the Terminals provide extraordinary access to vast and multitudinous market data, bringing complex concepts to life. Equally exciting is how the Terminals add dimension to less obvious disciplines — science and humanities classes, for example, even Kent Place’s ethics programming and independent research — says Economics and Financial Literacy Coordinator Alicia Rodriguez, who helped to bring the Terminals to campus.

“These are the machines that move our markets,” she says. “I want our students to feel empowered — whether or not they’re interested in pursuing finance — to navigate them, to understand the interconnectedness of global markets, and to know how to analyze trusted data to make better, more informed decisions.”

Recently, a fifth-grade math class visited the Lab to learn about the Consumer Price Index. An Upper School English class explored the Bloomberg News function to read its top-tier articles. And sixth-grade science students took advantage of the Terminals’ mapping tool to connect the periodic table to real-world mining locations.

Mrs. Rodriguez’s hope is that the Lab — at turns overwhelming, intimidating, and utterly engrossing — becomes a hub for inquiry of all kinds. “It has opened up this amazing world of learning, for students and teachers,” says Elaine Schwartz, a longtime economics teacher. “We’re learning it together. And we’re not simply learning facts: We’re getting an entire, real-world experience.”

Last summer, 11 faculty, across all three divisions and spanning multiple subject areas, trained to use the Terminals and become Bloomberg Ambassadors. Currently, 12 classes — from Grade 5 to Grade 12 — visit the Lab, with many more planned in the years ahead. Here’s a peek into four of those courses and the unique ways in which the Lab enriches, elevates, and inspires student learning.

MONEY MATTERS

After a classroom brainstorming session in which students consider what factors to weigh before investing in a company, they visit the Lab for real-world research. Digging into key data points — such as corporate mission, earnings per share, overall revenue, suppliers, and competition — students pick a favorite company and argue its strength as an investment. A non-graded, required Grade 8 elective, the class is an ideal low-stakes, toe-dipping Bloomberg experience for all Middle Schoolers.

The teachers: Cheryl Kaplun, Middle School math (and a Bloomberg Ambassador), and Casey Amos, Middle School history

The di erence: “Did students find some of this information before, using Yahoo Finance or by researching a company’s website? Yes. But the Lab opens the door for so much more. We’re exploring this new technology together — it’s experiential learning, it’s a little messy, but it’s exciting to watch students click a button and see where it leads them. They often exclaim, ‘Look what I just found!’” —MS. KAPLUN

The takeaway: “Without access to the Lab, I wouldn't be able to get the most in-depth research on the company I presented on, Tesco. It’s a foreign company, but the platform helped me research its financial history and convert all the information into American metrics. I’m getting exposure to technology that I wouldn’t be able to use otherwise — it makes me feel professional, like I’m actually experiencing the work of a financial analyst.” —IRA SAHAY ’30

BUDGET BITES: FINANCIAL PLANNING FOR REAL-LIFE NUTRITION

Students are given $25 to feed a family of four, anywhere in the country. That’s the premise of this trimester-long, Upper School health and wellness class, which has existed for several years. Students research food costs and visit the grocery store to purchase and fully prepare a budget-friendly meal. Now, investigating real-time consumer data on the Terminals — cost of living, gas prices, and locations of grocery stores versus convenient stores, for example — has introduced a captivating new dimension. Currently rolling out in Grades 9 and 12, eventually every grade will have time in the Lab.

The teacher: Michelle Stevenson, Director of Health and Wellness (and a Bloomberg Ambassador)

The di erence: “The data available to students through the Terminals adds a much deeper financial literacy component to our class. When we go to the grocery store, they’re paying closer attention to the price of that gallon of milk because they know how much it costs in other parts of the country. All these little sparks go o when they start exploring the data.” —MRS. STEVENSON

The takeaway: “It’s been an eye-opening experience to use the Terminals and see how food prices fluctuate over time with the impact of inflation, the pandemic, and other economic events, and how supermarket distribution and food deserts a ect access to a ordable, healthy food. By exploring live retail maps and current news stories on food systems, we’re able to connect real-world data with ethical reasoning and community impact, so we have a deeper understanding of how individual food decisions intersect with global markets.”

—KAREN KISZA ’26

“The Lab provides a much more hands-on learning experience. It’s a great opportunity to gain early access to one of the best industry tools — one that I know will continue to be valuable in college and my career.”

—PHOEBE KROWITZ ’26

DIVING DEEPER

For students craving more, the Terminals will walk them through an eight-module training course called Bloomberg Market Concepts. After mastering core ideas such as economic indicators, currencies, commodities, fixed income, and equities — plus familiarizing themselves with more than 150 Bloomberg Terminal functions — they become “Bloomberg Certified.”

Close to 10 students, mostly seniors, returned to campus last summer to pursue certification, and more are taking up the challenge this school year. Nia McDaniel ’27 is one of them.

Last year, as a sophomore, she took Portraits of Empowerment, reinforcing her growing curiosity about business and economics. When the Lab opened, she seized the opportunity. “I’m a big fan of independent research, so getting certified gives me a chance to advance my learning on my own terms, which I really appreciate,” she says.

Nia is also looking ahead: “I hope my Bloomberg Certification will give me more insight into economic research but also provide me with an advantage in terms of internships and other opportunities.”

Note: Teachers are getting certified, too! Director of Health & Wellness Michelle Stevenson is currently pursuing certification in Bloomberg’s Starting Entrepreneurs program.

PORTRAITS OF EMPOWERMENT

Open to all Upper Schoolers who have taken a foundational ethics class, this cross-disciplinary elective explores ethics and economics through the lens of successful female entrepreneurs, showcasing the power of the Lab to amplify humanities classes, as well as economics courses. For example, tapping into the Terminals’ map function, one student is examining the availability of water sources across the United States to better understand the business tradeo s made by successful farmer-florist Erin Benzakein.

The teachers: Anna Conti, Associate Director of the Ethics Institute, and Alicia Rodriguez, Economics and Financial Literacy Coordinator

The di erence: “The Terminals have been a game-changer for this course, and we’ve just scratched the surface. Before, students could turn blue in the face trying to find economic information on a company using Google. Now much more breadth and depth and nuance is at their disposal. They can listen to the earnings calls of E.L.F. Cosmetics CFO Mandy Fields and access Bloomberg’s ESG (environmental, social, governance) analysis tool to evaluate the company’s performance. They’re gaining a better understanding of the ethics-based decisions companies face.” —MRS. CONTI

The takeaway: “Using the Terminals, I can see the relationship between ethical concepts and economic ideas. I get to see how real companies make choices and how some of the deeper information — like their corporate history, current events, margins, and market changes — can impact their decision-making. The most important thing I’ve learned is that economics really is part of everything.” —EVA OBALDE ’29

“We used to think Google is where information exists. Especially with AI, now we’re challenged to think about where we get our information and how accurate it is. The Terminals enable students to see how much other, well-researched data is out there.”

—ANNA CONTI

ALUMNA SPOTLIGHT: MARCELLA (DE BIASE) FINKEL ’93 FUELS CURIOSITY IN THE BLOOMBERG LAB

When Marcella (De Biase) Finkel ’93 steps into the Bloomberg Lab, she’s returning to the place where her own curiosity first took root. Her senior-year economics class with Mrs. Schwartz, she recalls, “was pivotal,” sparking an early interest in business and markets. Paired with powerful writing instruction from Dr. Cole and Dr. Kidner, Marcella left Kent Place with both analytical confidence and a strong voice — skills that shaped her path from management consulting to healthcare investment banking and ultimately to her current work in investment advisory.

Marcella first encountered Bloomberg Terminals as a young investment banking analyst. Even now, though, she says, “I still use

only a small subset of what’s possible.” Their vast potential is part of what motivates her to mentor students on campus. She sees the Terminals not just as financial tools, but also as gateways into global news, industry research, and real-world trends relevant to disciplines from English to science.

Working with students in economics has rea rmed her belief in their curiosity and drive. Her hope is simple: that students gain both comfort with new technology and the confidence to keep exploring. Her advice reflects the mindset she models in the Lab — “Never stop asking questions, trying new things, and learning every day.”

“The Lab is tremendous exposure for the girls. New technology can feel intimidating, but we want to encourage them to dive in, play around, ask questions, and explore.”

—CHERYL KAPLUN

AP MACRO ECONOMICS

In this yearlong, seniors-only course, every student follows a di erent S&P 500 company, submitting monthly analytic reports that evaluate it based on a variety of economic concepts. Learning about supply and demand, for example, one student is reviewing Nintendo’s earnings calls to better understand the impact of tari s. The Terminals not only o er a springboard to much deeper economic analysis than students were able to achieve before, but also demystify a range of fuzzy economic ideas, such as competition, scarcity, monetary policy, and inflation.

The teachers: Elaine Schwartz, Upper School history and economics teacher, and Iaria Durbal, Upper School math teacher

The di erence: “It’s all too tempting for students to simply repeat the facts. In the Lab, I’m able to insist that students tether facts through analysis. They’re gathering data and they’re required to figure out what it all means. It opens them up to a whole new world of learning.”

—MRS.

SCHWARTZ

The takeaway: “Initially, I was surprised by how much raw data I could find on the company I’m following, Hermès. Figuring out all the di erent Bloomberg functions and keyboard codes is challenging, but I’m able to do more in-depth research with firsthand sources, which is valuable because I can apply the economic concepts I’m learning to the real world.”

—EVELYN MELENDI ’26

KEEPING PACE KEEPING PACE

Dear Alumnae,

When I look out the window of my Mabie House o ce, I can see and hear the construction of the new Leadership Center for Athletics, Wellness, and Performing Arts, which broke ground this past May. When I turn my gaze out the door of my o ce, I see and hear things just as powerful: students dashing through the halls on their way to dance classes in the Choral Room, laughter as others head to theater practice in the Commons Room.

ese spaces, although temporary homes for our programs during construction, are alive with possibility — a vibrant preview of our students’ talent that will soon have homes worthy of their dedication and creativity.

Listening as our artists rehearse and perform and cheering on our athletes as they practice and compete, I’m reminded daily why this project matters. I can envision our students thriving in the Leadership Center’s state-of-the-art facilities: athletic spaces that re ect their determination and ambition;

a cutting-edge theater and spacious dance studio that elevate their artistic expression; dedicated areas that support wellness and balance; and gathering spaces that bring our community together. is is not just a new building: It’s the next chapter in how we prepare girls to lead with con dence, intellect, and ethics.

e Leadership Center will be transformative. It will expand opportunities for student growth, further distinguishing our school as a place where girls develop into leaders of every kind. ink back to your own time on campus — whether in the ’60s or the ’90s — and imagine how these spaces would have shaped your experience.

e possibilities for today’s and tomorrow’s students are extraordinary.

As I approach my one-year anniversary as Chief Advancement O cer, I nd myself re ecting on what an incredible privilege it has been to meet so many of you. At countless events and get-togethers, I’ve been moved by your stories of Kent Place: of the teachers who inspired you, of the friendships that have endured, and of the impact this community continues to have on your lives. Your passion and commitment con rm why this school is indeed remarkable.

I invite you to be part of this exciting moment in our history. Visit kentplace.org/ leadership-center to learn more about the project and see our progress unfold. I hope to chat with you during Alumnae Weekend, at a Green and Gold on the Road gathering, or even for a campus tour to see rsthand the transformation under way.

In this issue of Kent Place, we’re proud to celebrate some remarkable alumnae whose leadership, creativity, and courage are shaping the world — proof that the Kent Place spirit is as strong and inspiring as ever.

Warm regards,

Beth Gottung Chief Advancement O cer

A KENT PLACE BEGINNING TO A MEDICAL FUTURE

In September, Madison Goodwin ’20, who was beginning her postgraduate work at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS), participated in its annual Barbara and Norman Seiden White Coat Ceremony — marking her formal entry into the study of medicine.

For Madison, who aspires to a career in obstetrics and gynecology, the White Coat Ceremony harked back to her days at Kent Place — that’s where her interest in medicine began. “Participating in the Bioethics Project sparked my interest in medicine by introducing me to the unique ethical responsibilities of physicians,” she says. “Learning how doctors use bioethics as a guidepost for cultivating a strong physician–patient relationship inspired my commitment to patient advocacy.”

That mission carries personal significance: “As an underrepresented minority in medicine,” she says, “wearing my white coat symbolizes my role in advocating for underrepresented and minority patients. It motivates me to address health disparities by forming deep connections with the community NJMS serves.”

Alumnae in the Classroom: Leadership Lessons

Every fall for the past ve years, Head of School Jennifer Galambos has led a discussion-based seminar that examines what it means to be a leader, o ering eighthgrade students the opportunity to explore and develop their own leadership skills. A highlight of the class is hearing from alumnae who have gone on to become leaders in their respective elds. We checked in with Olivia O’Sullivan ’19, a senior associate at the Bank of New York, working in alternative strategy, one of the KPS graduates to speak with the class about her career journey.

“ e Leadership Seminar gives students an early toolkit for communicating clearly, thinking independently, and leading with con dence, skills that shape much of what comes after high school,” Olivia says now. “For eighth-graders, it’s a pivotal moment: ey’re about to step into high school, and this class gives them a real head start in nding their voice and learning how to show up as leaders.

“Alumnae conversations make leadership feel tangible,” she says. “ ey show students the ways a Kent Place education carries them forward and gives them a window into real career paths.”

The Rise of Re-Commerce: Why Resale Is Thriving Across Generations

In recent years, something fascinating has been happening in the world of shopping and the way we think about “stu .” What was once niche (reselling, buying secondhand, upcycling, and online marketplaces) has now become mainstream and essential.

Some of this shift re ects our economy; some of it re ects our growing awareness of sustainability. But more than anything else, the rise of re-commerce re ects people and their habits, their values, and their stories. And as two Kent Place School alumnae from the Class of 1993 who have spent our professional lives immersed in various corners of the resale, organizing, and recommerce worlds, we’ve had front-row seats to these changes.

Heather is an appraiser, auctioneer, and downsizing specialist who grew up in a family-owned regional auction house

and has run everything from traditional estate sales to large-scale online auctions. She now leads the business development department for Maxsold.com, an international Canadian online auction company focused on keeping household goods in circulation and out of land lls.

Jane is the co-owner of Other People’s Clothes, a thriving chain of buy-sell-trade fashion stores in New York City that most recently opened its Union Square location. Between the two of us, we’ve seen rsthand how dramatically the resale landscape has evolved and how deeply it connects to generational trends.

What we’ve noticed is that this movement isn’t driven by just one age group: e resale revolution spans the Silent Generation through Gen Z, each with its own relationship to the marketplace.

WHEN EMOTIONAL VALUE MEETS TODAY’S MARKET

Among our Silent Generation and Baby Boomer communities, downsizing has become a universal experience. For many families, the process is emotional. People nd themselves overwhelmed by a lifetime of belongings that hold the memories of holidays and family celebrations. A perfect example is the traditional dining room set: the large, hardwood table with matching chairs, sideboard, and breakfront. is furniture once represented the heart of the home. For many older adults, it’s priceless. But in today’s marketplace, these pieces sell for far less than their original cost, and far less than the emotional value families place on them.

Younger generations simply haven’t been furnishing dining rooms in the same way. For the past 20 years, entertaining in the home has shifted toward casual gatherings, with people clustered around kitchen islands with drinks in hand rather than seated for long, formal dinners. As a result, the market is ooded with dining sets, and supply far outweighs demand.

GEN X: THE ORIGINAL RE-COMMERCE PIONEERS

Gen X’ers have shaped today’s resale culture in signi cant ways. Long before resale became mainstream, this generation embraced it, from Etsy’s beginnings to early eBay hustles. With their appreciation for handmade goods, vintage nds, and an entrepreneurial spirit, Gen X has consistently pushed back against massproduced sameness.

Even today, Gen X is behind many resale and re-commerce businesses, buying and selling with an eye for quality, craftsmanship, and environmental awareness. Jane’s chain of buy-sell-trade stores is an example of Gen X ingenuity and the belief that secondhand fashion can be both stylish and sustainable.

MILLENNIALS: MINIMALISM MEETS TREASURE HUNTING

Millennials are often associated with minimalism and a desire for clean, uncluttered spaces and intentional ownership. But they’re also one of the largest forces behind the mid-century modern resale trends.

It was Millennials who resurrected midcentury modern furniture, transforming it from an overlooked relic to a coveted design staple. And because authentic mid-century modern pieces can’t be bought new, the resale market has ourished.

Despite stereotypes that this generation shops only at IKEA, many Millennials are dedicated secondhand hunters, using platforms such as Etsy, posh resale apps, and online auctions to source unique pieces with character and history.

GEN Z: THE MAXIMALIST COLLECTORS OF THE FUTURE

And then we look at Gen Z. ese are the young adults who are wonderfully rewriting the rulebook again. Where Millennials leaned toward minimalism, Gen Z’ers are embracing maximalism: color, texture, patterns, collections, and personality. ey’ve coined new names for new resale trends, such as Gorpcore, Coquette decor, and Y2K. ey’re rummaging through their grandparents’ homes with genuine excitement, bringing back trends once thought forgotten.

With the rising costs of living, many young adults are choosing to host smaller, home-based get-togethers again (which is sparking faint glimmers of hope for the return of the dining room set). And they’re shopping the resale market not just out of necessity, but with enthusiasm, too. To them, thrifted is cool, unique is better than new, and sustainability is nonnegotiable.

WHY RESALE MATTERS NOW MORE THAN EVER

Across every generation, the common thread is this: Resale shopping is a meaningful, values-driven choice. It’s better for our wallets. It’s better for our world. And it honors the stories behind the things we once loved.

A FEW QUESTIONS TO LEAVE YOU WITH

• What items in your home hold strong emotional value, even if you no longer need them?

• If you’ve shopped in the resale or re-commerce space, which shops, apps, or platforms have you enjoyed?

—Heather Dawson ’93 and Jane Herships ’93

Eleanor Haglund ’12

Eleanor Haglund ’12 is a manager at NVIDIA’s Venture Capital Alliance, where she works with entrepreneurs and investors to foster collaboration in AI. As an entrepreneur herself, she has founded and led multiple startups that drive innovation and connect key stakeholders in technology and health care. She holds an MBA from Columbia Business School and a BA from Carnegie Mellon University, where she volunteered as an emergency medical technician. In her free time, Eleanor volunteers with Community First and writes novels.

Growing up, I was told to nd a passion.

Spoiler: I never found it, but I found something better.

To nd my passion in college, I tried to do everything all at once, including creative writing, psychology, entrepreneurship, a cappella, and emergency medical services. I continued this pattern after college, with a job during the day and a startup on nights and weekends. But after one too many breakdowns, I realized something had to change. I switched into my startup full time, pouring my heart and soul into one thing. But I still couldn’t nd my passion.

A few years later, I encountered Richard Hamming’s 1986 lecture “You and Your Research,” and began to believe I might nd an answer that t me. In it, Hamming suggests asking yourself big questions, starting with

“What are the most important problems in your eld?” and “Are you working on them?”

I began to set aside time to think about these questions. Sitting in silence with myself was uncomfortable and I didn’t enjoy it, but I stuck with it. Initially, the ideas came in dribs and drabs, furious at being ignored all those years, and then in waves, breaking down the oodgates. e waves formed into sentences, and then into paragraphs, culminating in questions. My questions.

Among these questions: “How do you use stories to guide people to be in harmony with each other?” and “How do you empower people to be agentic and free?” ere was a calm that came with the clarity, and, underneath it all, an excitement. I began to hope for more hours in the day so I could continue to think about these questions.

And then, when I thought I had it, old habits kicked in. I thought, “I should try to do something about all of these immediately.” I returned to the lecture and realized I had missed a key part of Hamming’s message. e point of the questions was not to spark immediate action, but instead to orient while you sought out the right solutions and the time to put them together.

It felt right, nally, because I knew what I was looking for. Not a passion, but a purpose.

Now, I spend my time seeking out potential solutions to match them with questions I care about. I’ve structured my life to focus on one job in which I can help people with their entrepreneurial initiatives to impact the world. It enables me to spend my free time volunteering with think tanks to help with homelessness in Austin and to write ction that engages with important human issues.

Every morning, I wake up and identify the most important problems in my eld and ask myself “Are you working on them?” and it always feels good to answer, “Yes.”

1941

Virginia (Reiner) Vanderbilt passed away on December 22, 2025, at her home in London. Our condolences to her family and friends.

1946

Louise Tompkins, of Medford, NJ, died peacefully on October 29, 2025. Our condolences to her sister, Mary (Tompkins) Starkweather ’43, and the rest of her family.

1947

Anne (Campbell) Dowell annedowell@triad.rr.com

Our class is way down in numbers, but we still like to keep in touch. Evelyn (France) Kalagher lives in a retirement home in Bennington, VT. She loves her cottage with the pond out back. She cooks and eats at home but goes to the clubhouse

when they have crab cakes. Her niece, Katie, lives close enough to visit every few weeks. Her nephew, Greg, lives on Friday Harbor, a large island northwest of Seattle, and he calls her every Saturday. She says everything is okay, but she needs to get out more.

Kathy (Harter) Webster lives in a cottage in a retirement home in Dedham, MA. Her daughter Lucy lives near the beach just an hour away, and she’s at Kathy’s often. Kathy cooks some and usually eats at home. She uses a walker when outside. Another daughter, Susan, lives not far away, near their lake. Kathy quite often went to the lake with guests this summer. Her other two daughters still live in Europe.

is a junior at Washington University in St. Louis. Preusy’s daughter Julia and her partner were home for Christmas and then back to California. Her daughter Heide spent the summer there and returned to Houston but was back for the holidays. Her daughter Elizabeth went to Costa Rica for 10 days and then back home. “I’m fortunate to have three children who live mainly in Minnesota,” she says. “We’re hoping Heide will move here after she retires.”

26, 2025. Our condolences to Anne’s family and friends.

1951

Mary-Carey (Bachmann) Churchill mcchurchill@gmail.com

In Memoriam

Anne (Freeman) Giraud ’37 July 14, 2025

Virginia (Reiner) Vanderbilt ’41 December 22, 2025

Louise Tompkins ’46 October 29, 2025

Ellen (McComas) Fisher ’47 May 9, 2025

Louise (Wallace) Hockey ’48 May 30, 2025

Anne (Waterson) Gordon ’50 July 26, 2025

Lindsay (Pyle) Behne ’53 November 13, 2024

Susan Hand ’60 January 7, 2025

Clair (Fahnestock) Cannon ’67 September 29, 2025

Carla (Bauer) Rentrop ’68 November 6, 2025

Leslie Tunstall ’72 November 11, 2025

Laura Nash ’81 July 30, 2025

Sue (Savage) Speers lives in assisted living at Kendall Retirement Home, Hanover, NH. She spends summers at her house in Center Sandwich, near Squam Lake. Her son Will lives nearby and he and his family are often with Sue. Will is retired and has three boys, all married with children. Sue’s family comes and goes all summer. Sue’s granddaughter Ellen will be married on June 30, 2026, in Groton, CT. en she and her husband will live on Long Island. Last year, Sue went to two granddaughters’ weddings, one in California and the other in Chattanooga, TN. Sue sings in her church choir and is a member of the Events Committee.

Giovanna (Mancusi-Ungaro) Breu called, and it was good to hear from her. Dementia, though, makes it hard to understand her, so her husband gave me her information. ey’ve been married for 62 years and still live in Chicago. Giovanna graduated from Smith College in 1951 and has a journalism degree from Columbia. She retired 25 years ago. eir son is a professor at Illinois State University and their daughter lives in a suburb of Houston. She’s a nurse and is married with two daughters.

Helen “Preusy” (Preus) Mairs lives in an Episcopal retirement home in St. Paul, MN. She does her usual walking, singing, and keeping busy and often goes to St. Paul Chamber Orchestra concerts. Her son and his wife built a house in Spooner, WI — just two hours away. ey have two sons: One works in Minneapolis and the other

I, Anne (Campbell) Dowell, or Camby, as many of you call me, live in a nice retirement home in Winston-Salem, NC. I live in a cottage with a deck out back that looks into big woods. e bird feeders on my deck have lots of visitors. I go to exercise class Monday through Friday and classes at our pool twice a week. I eat at home or at our clubhouse with friends. Two daughters live nearby and one lives in Portland, OR, and visits often. My two granddaughters live in Atlanta. Tacy teaches special ed and Meg is a pediatric nurse practitioner and will be married next April.

1948

We heard from Bill Hockey that his mother, Louise (Wallace) Hockey, passed away on May 30, 2025. After graduating from Kent Place, he told us, her family moved to California, where she lived her entire life. She always talked very highly about Kent Place and had wonderful memories of her time there.

1950

Liz (Dun) Colten lizcolten@aol.com

Penny (Burley) Thomas mbtedt@gmail.com

Phyllis (Tilson) Piotrow: A bad early year for me. I lost and sadly miss my daughter Diana, a talented tennis player, artist, and architect, and I had two surgeries for breast cancer. Later, I joined hundreds of “No Kings” protesters here twice, a notable turnout in both good and bad weather for a small town. Now my women friends and I are leading the way to celebrate election results while scrambling to support our very active and needy food bank. What next?

Kent Place learned that Anne (Waterson) Gordon passed away on July

MJ (Cabrera) Shaw was still gol ng last summer/fall and is now getting ready for the Stowe winter, when she gets family and visitors for the ski season. She asked for a correction from last issue. For many years, she was manager of the Mt. Mans eld Ski Club, not the Mt. Mans eld Ski School. Got it. All I know is that every time we went there, she was on the hill.

Yours truly had a busy summer: the Mount Holyoke 70th reunion in May; a great trip to Hawaii in June, visiting friends; then Newport, RI, at my daughter’s home; a New England, New Jersey, and Virginia road trip; and back to Florida on Amtrak’s auto train. e weather was spectacular everywhere — lucky me! Now back in West Palm Beach and staying put. I also have the usual aches and pains. At this age, our bodies are like 2-year-olds nagging every morning: “Pay attention to me, pay attention to me . . .”

1953

We heard from Katie, the daughter of Lindsay (Pyle) Behne, that her mother passed away on November 13, 2024. Our condolences to Lindsay’s family and friends.

1954

Marianna (Ruprecht) Mitchell mariannarmitchell@gmail.com

1957

As life in the aging years tends to ow, Virginia (Tansey) Wilkinson nds herself overwhelmed, not only with her usual multiple busy activities, but also with some health issues at the moment.

So I, Lucy (Gale) Gaven, jumped in (unasked — interfering?) and am sending this bit from Cheryl (Cushing) Campbell, which she sent in response to a request for information. It was the only response I’m aware of from any of our classmates:

“We moved to Lantern Hill, a senior living community in New Providence, in February 2025. We’re happily settled in, and I’m close enough to Short Hills and Summit that I can continue to

enjoy my activities there. We had a wonderful summer in Wolfeboro, NH, where in August we celebrated one of our granddaughters’ wedding. It was an extraordinary day lled with joy and love. Earlier in the summer, we had a luncheon for a few KP classmates in the area. Rich and Lucy (Gale) Gaven, Bee (Newman) Thayer, and Barbara (Biddulph) Preston joined us for lunch and Bee spent two nights, which were lled with good conversation and laughter. In New Jersey, we share great times with Karlan (Sloan) McCarthy and Joe . . . dinner for four and ladies lunch for two. Last spring, I learned that a friend of ours here, a doctor, is also a friend of Joe’s from New York, where they practiced medicine together, and the six of us gathered for dinner. I’m always impressed when I receive a Kent Place magazine. I’m so proud to have attended such an amazing school.”

I myself have nothing of interest to contribute; my husband and I have become possibly the most boring people on the planet, doing pretty much nothing and going nowhere except for Maine (where we hide in the woods during the summer) and eating bland, easy-tochew food.

1958

Ann (Marshall) Searles: Martha (Nettleton) Behr and I went to the National Museum of African American History in Washington, DC, in September. It was more than joyful to be together once again. I live in Evanston, IL, and Martha in Falls Church, VA. We’re both well and enjoying life.

1959

Elizabeth (Budd) Bugliari bugliarie@gmail.com

Liddy (Morrison) Baker: My husband, John, and I are still living in the house we built 17 years ago in Kent, CT. We make frequent trips to see children and grandchildren in Chatham, NJ, Annapolis, and Santa Fe. Life is good. We are blessed.

1960 Kent Place learned that Sue Hand passed away on January 7, 2025. Our condolences to Sue’s family and friends.

1961

Doris (Hodges) Heiser: Ed and I have had a very good year! A highlight was visiting Greece (our rst time there) to attend our great-niece’s wedding. It took place on a small island and was lovely; afterward, we went to Athens. A word of advice: Do NOT climb the Acropolis at age 82! We made the climb without any problem, but a couple of days later I had a lot of back and leg pain. Luckily, with PT, I eventually returned to normal, thank goodness. Hugs to all my classmates, and I hope to see you at our 65th reunion in the spring!

1963

Louise (Hall) Grauer louise.a.grauer@gmail.com

1964

Gail (Giblin) Flynn gailgiblin29@gmail.com

I’m living on the West Coast with my daughter, Kate. e Paci c Northwest is quite beautiful, but I miss living by the sea in New England. A very big birthday year for everyone, and so I relate that those I’ve been in contact with seem to be aging with grace and dignity. Kudos! I received wonderful and educational travel news from Debbie Wiley in the fall: “I’m in Namibia after having been on safari for twoplus weeks, including Botswana. My year has been full of wonderful travel, beginning on the Nile in Egypt, understanding some of our civilization’s roots and seeing that 4,000-year-old pharaohs’ tombs can still be colorfully vibrant. Later in the spring, a wonderful 10-day cruise on the Danube, learning how far north in Europe the Romans got, as well as the magnitude of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. e summer in Little Compton was full of family and friends, namely Sally (Cissel) Greenwood and Jean (Muchmore) McCleary, when we entertained ourselves with KP stories. My trip to Africa started with a week in Tanzania, working with the scholars of the NGO Unite the World with Africa Foundation. e foundation supports the brightest students who come from the most dire circumstances (mud hut homes with pit latrines, abusive families, or parents who died when they were young) for their last two

years of high school at boarding schools. ese young people put a lot of American students to shame with their determination to achieve by becoming doctors, nurses, accountants, civil engineers, pharmacists, and social workers.

ey’re an amazing group of young people. Now on safari seeing many animals: lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, elephants, gira es, Cape bu alo, hyenas, jackals, and so many beautiful birds.”

In closing, sincerest condolences again to Nanie (Walsh) Flaherty and to Susie (Bishop) Rayburn on the loss of their beloved husbands.

1965

Dr. Janet B. W. Williams jbwwny@gmail.com

Anne (Cox) Beko : I had a wonderful visit with Janet in May. Her oating home is fantastic, and we had a blast exploring and taking in the sights in Seattle. As expected, Janet’s energy and her ability to overcome all obstacles are amazing. e trip was a highlight of my year, which also included rafting the Grand Canyon, visits from my grandkids from Alaska and Sweden, and winning a national championship in the biathlon.

Joan Drake: I quit skiing after 50 years, so it was time to head to warmer weather and I moved to Hilton Head. I’m still adjusting to the southern way of living. Quite a slow pace, but I’m playing tennis, golf, and pickleball and dealing with the hot, humid summers. Starting to do some traveling again. Spent two weeks in Mallorca visiting a nephew who recently moved there. Fabulous ex-pat island, beautiful Mediterranean and the mountains as well, delicious food, and amazing art. Hello to everyone — I hope you’re doing well.

1966

Linda “Lindy” (Burns) Jones finallylbj@gmail.com

Pamela (Bradley) Eglo : I’ve permanently relocated to Switzerland after 49 years of commuting. My husband, Remo, and I felt the time was right. I’ll miss the Miami weather in the winter and seeing my friends there, but now I have more time for my friends and family here.

Nia (Eldridge) Eaton: Lucky me living in suburban Philadelphia among an embarrassment of riches,

such as museums, historic sites, and arboretums. I continue to enjoy my post-retirement job as docent at Winterthur, Henry Francis du Pont’s estate, museum, gardens, and library, and the Brandywine River Museum. Constant learning keeps the mind functioning, the beauty of these sites feeds my soul, and interaction with the public is nothing if not interesting! Fall trip to Boston and Cape Cod a orded me a day of catching up and laughing with Lyn (Barr) Hoyt and a girls week in Myrtle Beach.

Pam (Schick) Kelsey: As we eagerly anticipate gathering and celebrating our 60th reunion in April, it seems only tting to acknowledge the classmates who have been and continue to be the “glue” of our amazing Class of ’66 — Lindy (Burns) Jones and Betsy (Busch) Crosby. ank you, ladies, for all you do for us. Seeing so many of you participate in our Zoom calls really means a lot to me. With social media as immediate as it is, the calls enable us to share relevant details about our lives and o er us the chance to support one another in a timely manner. John and I look forward to seeing you face-to-face this spring.

Fran (Gri th) Laserson: I had a number of wonderful adventures in 2025, such as taking the Rocky Mountaineer train trip from Vancouver to Calgary and then attending the nal day of the Calgary Stampede rodeo. e trip included an o er to babysit in San Francisco for grandkids — Ellis (4) and Gri th (1) — so my daughter, Galen, and husband Matt could go to a wedding.

1967

Kent Place received the sad news that Clair (Fahnestock) Cannon passed away on September 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving husband and three children, due to metastatic ovarian cancer. Our condolences to Clair’s family and friends.

1968

Barbara Wiss barbarawiss@gmail.com

Kent Place learned that Carla (Bauer) Rentrop passed away on November 6, 2025. An in uential psychoanalyst and psychotherapist, she was deeply respected for her kindness, spirit, and dedication, and her work brightened the lives of many. Our condolences to Carla’s family and friends.

Ballast and Lodestar leaders at the 2025 Fall Columbia Scholastic Press Association Conference

1969

Gay (Garth) Legg gaylegg@gmail.com

All is well with my family, which has expanded yet again, with my daughter Perrin and her husband, Sam, having their rst baby, my seventh grandchild, this past May. She’s in Westport, CT, and the others are in Concord and Marblehead, both in Massachusetts. at’s seven under 7 — so I’m willing to travel to New England for babysitting jobs. My husband, Chris, and I are still headquartered in Baltimore, but I spent a lot of time this summer in Canada at my cabin in northern Ontario and then also on Cape Cod, in Brewster, at my house there. I’m a lucky girl. Anyone who wants to visit is welcome! I also had the chance through the Garden Club of America to travel up to northern Maine to Lubec, the easternmost town in the United States, to hike and canoe at a beautiful spot called Cobscook Shores, just across the border from Campobello Island. I highly recommend it. It’s a new public/private parkland funded without the state or federal govern-

ment. In the midst of political chaos, it was great to see these beautiful places preserved forever.

It feels like winter is now arriving — put on your knee socks — I hope everyone had the chance to gather with family and friends for the holidays. We have much to be grateful for.

I was excited to hear from our class AFS student, Elisabeth “Libby” (Tainsh) Aloni: “Hello, fellow classmates,” she writes. “My life in Australia is very busy with volunteering commitments. I often wonder how I managed a full-time job as well. Since my husband died (now eight years ago), traveling, a shared passion, is not that much fun without him, so apart from our reunion at KPS a few years back, I haven’t left the country. inking about it, though. Antarctica is on my bucket list. My three children are doing well but no grandchildren for me. My eldest is now 46, which I nd a little scary. I turned 75 in October with the blessing of excellent health and not needing any medications. My busy-

OUR LONGEST-RUNNING ASSIGNMENT: CSPA. In response to this issue’s “In Her View” question about a favorite field trip (page 3), Tansy (Howard) Blumer ’61 wrote, “Mine was a weekend in New York City for budding journalists. Miss Moulding encouraged us to make our publications the best they could be. We worked hard and spent late afternoons and weekends polishing our work and trying to graciously accept her tough critiques. The reward was a trip to attend a conference at which the Columbia University School of Journalism celebrated high school journalists. I remember the feeling of pride when our student publications were cited for excellence.”

KPS students have been attending CSPA events for decades, developing their journalism skills through press writing, editing, photography, and digital media, and learning from other publications. Editors of Ballast — the Kent Place newspaper — and Lodestar — our ethics magazine — attended the 85th Fall Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) Conference in November.

ness includes honorary treasurer for a local not-for-pro t NGO that primarily raises money for local charities; I feel very proud of the work we do. A friend introduced me to a program where you get trained to mentor foster children. Normally, you’re allocated one child, and I have the privilege of working with brothers 9 and 11 years of age. I’m also a PA to a family where some of my duties are doing quotes and contracts related to the building industry. I nd that these activities keep me relevant in my own mind. Has anyone else noticed that as we age, we become a little invisible? I do love that the connection with KPS still endures. I love to hear news from the States. Always an open invitation to come and visit me. May 2026 bring success and joy.”

1970

Harty (Platt) du Pont hartleydupont@aol.com

Lisa Schmucki lisaschmucki@gmail.com

e Class of 1970 had a wonderful 55th reunion this year: Eighteen

classmates returned for a great time, staying at the Debary Inn in Summit, visiting Kent Place, and having a wonderful impromptu dinner at the home of Lynn (Daeschler) Magrane, where we shared memories that went back to nursery school for some of us. A sisterhood that spans decades is one of life’s greatest gifts. Here’s our latest news.

Emmy (Perina) Katz’s son, Ethan, married Chiaki Akiba in Japan this year, and Emmy and Bruce traveled to Japan to meet the parents. Ethan is a lieutenant and JAG with the Navy and Chiaki is a dentist. ey’ll be living in Guam for the next two years. Emmy and Bruce have an enormous garden in northern New Hampshire, but the drought this year was devastating. Emmy met up with Carolyn “Sticky” (Stickney)Gregson for lunch in St. Johnsbury, VT, a town midway between them.

Sticky was really sorry to miss our 55th reunion, but feels very lucky to have spent three days with Patty Kummel at the beach in Maine, with Judy Chamberlain and

Green & Gold on the Road

We always enjoy catching up with our alumnae near and far! Thank you to everyone who joined us at our recent gatherings. You can find details about upcoming events on our website and social media pages. If you’re interested in hosting an event, please contact Lainey Segear, Senior Director of Community Engagement, at (908) 273-0900, ext. 335, or segearl@kentplace.org.

1. Mantoloking, NJ: Hosted by Manie (Ferguson) Fahey ’84 and Steve Lang

2. Spring Lake, NJ: Hosted by Maria (Fekete) ’98 and Jordan Brugg P ’28 ’30

3. Nantucket, MA: Hosted by Elaine and Cary Schwartz

4. Boston, MA: Hosted by Joan Hass ’62

5. Washington, DC: Hosted by Anne Savage ’88

6. Westerly, RI: Hosted by Betsy (Busch) ’66 and John B. Crosby, Jr. P ’93

7. Greenwich, CT: Hosted by Samantha (Bird) Small ’05 and Frances (Bird) Peisch ’11

her wife, Karen, and two nights with Barbara “Henny” (Henwood) Ikalainen. Sticky is still working for UVM Health, helping older folks stay at home rather than go to a nursing home.

Judy and Karen have been busy! eir daughter, Nena, met them at the Sacramento airport for a visit this summer, not feeling well. Judy, a doctor, suspected appendicitis in 15 minutes, but it took six hours for the ER to con rm. Surgery was followed by a long weekend in Yosemite to recuperate. A busy summer was spent with friends and horses in Maine. In October, they went to Barcelona for three days, followed by a Viking cruise down the western Mediterranean. ey’re now settled in South Carolina for the winter and look forward to riding and driving their horses and being outdoors in their gardens and with the dog.

Lis Bensley has a new novel out with agents, and writes that this past summer she had a great visit with Tricia Tunstall, who is also working on a novel. Coincidentally, they’re working with the same independent editor, who gave each of them a thumbs up. ey’re both looking forward to our next gathering.

Tricia continues to write, teach piano, and edit a global newsletter about social change through music education. She was thrilled to become a grandmother this year, and she goes to Brooklyn one day a week to help care for Louis. Sadly, she lost her sister Leslie ’72 on November 11, after Leslie’s decade-long journey with lung cancer.

Amy (Meislin) Pollack is another class author and has just published the third book in her series. It’s called e Adventures of Jelly Bean, and it’s about the world of a fourth-grader facing challenges that resonate with children of her age.

Lisa Schmucki is very thankful that edWeb.net continues to support educators and their students at such a challenging time in education. While happy to keep working full time, she makes time, any time, to be with her daughter, son-in-law, and grandson in Detroit. She and Eleanor took a mother-daughter trip to Paris and Barcelona this summer, which was wonderful!

Betzi (Ulrich) Powers writes that Valerie McEntee joined her and her

husband on a fantastic two-week trip to Glacier National Park, the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise, and Ban . e travel was mostly by train, which was quite leisurely with amazing sights from the observation cars. Our world is breathtakingly beautiful, and every place they saw was unique. Her recommendation is to travel while you can and see the world and its beauty and goodness.

Liv Eltvik still enjoys outdoor activities in Norway, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and sailing. She continues to work on an hourly basis for the engineering company Aas-Jakobsen, where she’s been for 41 years. As a bridge specialist, she’s been working on strengthening several old suspension bridges and has enjoyed sharing her knowledge with younger colleagues. Her year as an AFS exchange student at KPS has given her lifelong friendships. is summer she had visits from Joy’s niece, from Kate Debevoise and husband John, and from Emmy’s daughter, Marilyn, and granddaughter Emma.

Pat Glibert, still a professor with the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, continues her work on water quality and algal blooms. Her textbook on algae was published last year. Also in the past year, she went to China and Punta Arenas, Chile, where she lectured on her recent work. With seven grandchildren, there’s never a dull moment.

Our class was deeply saddened to learn that Harty (Platt) du Pont’s brother, Adrian, passed away in September. She cared for him during his illness, and they shared a love of animals, nature, and art. “ ank you to all who wrote to me expressing your sympathies,” Harty writes. “It’s amazing how your kindness has sustained me. I want to thank Chrys (Mennen) Andrea for her generous contribution to the North Texas Food Bank in Adrian’s memory, as well as the generous donation Lisa made to the Equus Foundation in his memory.” Harty is devoted to the work she does for Columbia University as the chair of the School of the Arts 1754 Society.

Joy Weiner is starting to organize another destination reunion for our class in spring 2026, in the beautiful Hudson River Valley region. We can’t wait!

1971

Jamie Gi ord-Modick jamie.gi ordmodick@gmail.com

Jan (Yeaw) Carhart made the big move south, as some others of our class have already done. She and Tom moved to a 55+ community in Canton, GA, to be near their son, Jason, and his family — three grandkids and one who will have arrived when you read this. It’s also been great fun getting to know our neighbors and enjoying all the various community activities on o er, she writes.

Jeanne (Pettit) Ferris sent her news directly to KPS (see below), but it needs mentioning: participant in 100 protests! ank you for your perseverance! Maybe using skills you learned at KPS, Jeanne?

Pam (Baker) Harding has been stuck with two cataract surgeries and Dan with a back surgery, but that hasn’t slowed her down. She runs oral-design workshops and judges at oral-design shows. Looks like her botany major paid o ! ey often head up to the Hudson Valley to babysit their two grandchildren, and as they do every year, after a summer in Bay Head and autumn in Basking Ridge, they head to the Keys for anksgiving and the winter. She was quite happy that Sherrill gets a try as New Jersey governor, as was I. And I know Michèle Ory would be as well, as she and I, living across the ocean, are very disturbed at what’s happening in the States. Some may say this is not for class notes; others might say we must take a stand.

Michèle has had terri c travels. In Madagascar, she writes, she “discovered beautiful nature and wonderful animals. Alas, the country is very poor and was ruled until very recently by a president who made crazy decisions and didn’t consider the welfare of the country.” She also took a cruise down the Danube from the Black Sea to Vienna. Years ago, I did a bike tour from Passau to Vienna and can heartily agree that there’s not only great wine but beautiful scenery, too.

Rosie Dackerman is still working full time as executive director of the Single Parent Resource Center in New York City. She did nd time, though, to meet up with Pam. Wish I could’ve joined!

Janet (Mauriello) Simon is still working away in interior design and

Marriages

Olivia Pennock ’91 to Bjorn Slate October 11, 2025

Hilary Sayia ’04 to Manuel Checchin September 13, 2025

Isabelle Fabian ’07 to Rowan Brohm November 1, 2025

Claire Marsden ’10 to Matthew Miller September 27, 2025

Births

Marla Napurano ’02 a daughter, Sera na Philomena Maslow October 17, 2025.

Alanna (Butera) Georges ’05 a daughter Spring 2025

Samantha (Cohen) Kaczmarek ’07 a daughter, Jordan Audrey Kaczmarek August 12, 2025

Sophia (Gouraige) McGill ’09 a daughter, Quinn Reed McGill June 29, 2025

Peter in asset management. I do feel lazy: With full bene ts, people in Germany can retire at 65 and with a slight decrease at 63 (which a lot do). We’re all 72+, and some of you can’t stop. at’s impressive! Janet is also helping Morris County get ready for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. “We’re planning a reenactment of George Washington’s Inauguration and we have all the clothes he wore,” she writes. And then, of course, there are the grandchildren: “ is past year we had another grandson. His name is Tanner Charles Simon, and all is well with my son Tim and his wife, Katie, with the new addition to their family. at makes our fth grandchild. Our four children, three in-laws, and ve children are all living within a few minutes of

the Morristown area where Peter and I live.”

Gail (Campbell) McBride and David’s grandkids also live nearby. Between playing with them or “tennis with Medicare recipients,” as she puts it, gardening, and daily walks along the coast, she’ll still nd time for a visit with her brother, Robby, who just moved near San Diego from Durango, CO.

I’d love to play tennis again. I really miss it, but my shoulder says, “Please don’t!” So I’m just beginning with pickleball and trying to convince former teammates how great it is. For brain-jogging, I’ve totally gotten into line dancing and continue to struggle and joggle around French and Greek, and have now added Portuguese in Duolingo. Recently on Corfu, I couldn’t get one word out of my mouth other than “Good morning, hello, yes, and no.” But I could read the menu! Next spring, my

brother, cousins and partners, and I will bike ride down the Portuguese coast from Porto to Lisbon. It’s beginning to turn into an annual event after they were so excited riding in Denmark with me, so when you all are at our 55th class reunion, I’ll be thinking about you on my ebike!

Kent Place heard from a few classmates:

Barbara (Weiger) Lepke-Sims: I’ve been on the board of USA International Harp Competition since 2019 and was recently elected president. is competition was started in 1989 by my teacher from the Juilliard School, Susann McDonald, who recently passed away at the age of 90. My family continues to thrive with six wonderful grandchildren. I occasionally make it from Denver to the Washington, DC, area to visit one of my sons and grandchildren. Mike and I will celebrate our 30th anniversary in March 2026. In

August, we went on a Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona to Istanbul to celebrate early.

Jeanne (Pettit) Ferris: Earlier this week (I’m writing on November 1), I participated in my 100th protest event (rally, march, honk and wave, lea etting) during 2025, and in a few hours I’ll be at the 101st such event (the always wonderful Tesla Take Down and Dance Party in Georgetown, DC, on Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.). A walk in Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria, VA, yesterday with my daughter and son-in-law was a very welcome break. I could feel myself unwinding as we moved along the boardwalk through the wetlands, admiring the fall foliage and the sunlight glinting on the water. May all of us work together to make America kind again!

Deborah Besch: We’ve survived another Texas summer, with reports of our moving premature. We stayed close to home this year except in July for one trip to Iceland and Norway, where we saw whales and pu ns and I swam in the North Sea o Norway. In November, I drove to the San Angelo Museum of Fine Art in San Angelo, Texas, to attend a presentation by our classmate Stacey Miller, of Rochester, NY, about her hat collection.

1972

All alumnae are invited to campus for the weekend’s events and to celebrate the milestone reunion classes ending in 1 and 6. We hope you’ll join us to connect with classmates and other alumnae — and experience what Kent Place life is like today! If you’re a member of a reunion class ending in 1 or 6, please consider joining the Reunion Committee.

For questions about the weekend or to join the Reunion Committee, please contact Lainey Segear, Senior Director of Community Engagement, at segearl@kentplace.org or (908) 273-0900, ext. 335.

To view the schedule of events and register, visit kentplace.org/alumnae-weekend.

With sadness, we must report that Leslie Tunstall passed away at her home in Accokeek, MD, on November 11, 2025, following an 11-year journey with lung cancer. Our condolences to Leslie’s sister, Tricia Tunstall ’70; daughter Shayna Gleason ’13; niece Tory Gilberti ’14; and the rest of her family and friends. Shayna wrote in her mother’s obituary about her time at Kent Place: “A highlight of Leslie’s years in Summit was her attendance at Kent Place, where she made deep friendships, had many cherished teachers and rich classroom experiences, and continued developing her sense of self.”

1973

Suzanne (Schmidt) Schneck: I love living in D.C., except for the politics! So many things to do. Steve and I have been traveling a bit to New York, Dublin, and Turks

and Caicos. After anksgiving, we sailed in the BVI, and in March we’re taking the whole family, including 8-year-old twins, on an adventure to St. Martin. I’ve joined the mahjong craze and love it!

Holly (LiSooey) Mendes: I nally retired, in August 2024, after 47 years as an educator in the Elizabeth School District. I ended my career as a principal for 17 years. My husband, Tony, retired as well, and we celebrated with a family trip (17 of us) to Punta Cana in the summer of 2024. I also nally had the time to meet up with Liz (Rumery) Chiminec this September. It was wonderful to have brunch with her as we remembered our time at KPS and at Cedar Crest, where we were college roomies and experienced college life along with KP classmate Marj Metcalf. Now on to a new chapter, keeping busy with the eight grandchildren.

Francine Lynch: Took a great hiking trip to Sicily in the fall, including climbing Mt. Etna. Earlier in the year, I won the Annual Fitness Challenge at the University Club for my age category!

Betsy (Haas) Anderson: is year has been a busy one. I’m still working as a federal employee at the FDA, awaiting a call back to work on the cosmetics program. My big trip was returning to Vienna for the 50th reunion of our college class at the Institute for European Studies, followed by a 12-day trip seeing the islands of Croatia. Please call if you get to D.C. It was great seeing Francine earlier this year!

Lisa Krieger: After 40 years in daily journalism, I’ve retired — or “rewired”! — to work on longer-form freelance projects and lend a hand to our weekly newspaper in Point Reyes, CA. I was proud to spend two weeks in India, supported by the Pulitzer Center, to write about the growing threat of microbial resistance to antibiotics. For fun, a friend and I traveled to Canada’s far north to the tiny Hudson Bay village of Churchill, where we spotted polar bears and paddleboarded with beluga whales. Although thrilling, it was sobering to see the impact of climate change on the sub-Arctic landscape. With more free time, I hope to soon visit my KPS pals!

In the late 1980s (left), Kent Place students gathered around the now-vintage Apple IIe computers, their green-tinted screens opening a small but fascinating window into the digital world. Those early machines were shared carefully and used with real enthusiasm as students discovered basic programming and experimented with simple software. With just a computer lab and limited programs, the technology may have been modest, but it sparked curiosity and invited students to imagine new possibilities.

Today, technology at Kent Place is integrated across the curriculum and tailored to students at every stage of their learning. Kindergarten through Grade 2 students use school-issued iPads that support early

reading, creativity, and hands-on exploration. In Grades 3–5, students move to school-owned Chromebooks as they gain independence and collaborate more deeply with classmates. Grades 6–8 students purchase a school-selected Chromebook to meet growing academic demands, and in Grades 9–12, students bring their own Apple or Windows laptop, selecting the device that works best for them. From a single row of Apple IIes to a campus where every student has the right tools for her learning, KPS continues to value technology as an essential part of helping students learn, create, and thrive.

What was your favorite memory with technology at Kent Place? We’d love to hear about it; please email communications@kentplace.org.

1974

Cathy Slichter cathy.slichter@gmail.com

1975

Patti Neale-Schulz pattischulz1919@gmail.com

I’m still smiling, thinking of our reunion. My son Michael got married in October, and it was an amazing weekend.

Tricia (Paterson) Graham: Had a great time celebrating our 50th KPS reunion in April 2025. Enjoyed seeing my classmates. In November 2025, my husband, Duane, and I took a cruise down the Rhone. Tasted some wonderful wines. Ended the trip with a nice stay in Paris.

Cathy (Ambrose) Smith: Our 50th reunion was so much fun! Back to traveling — I went on an African

safari in the fall, will return to Cuba in the winter, and, of course, I’ll see my three grandchildren in Colorado frequently. I continue to work in mosaic art, teaching regular classes as well as creating.

Carolyn (Rumery) Betz: It was great to be at our 50th reunion and reunite with so many old friends. Other highlights of 2025 were trips to Glacier National Park and back to my beloved Camp Arcadia in Maine. I also did a fair amount of bicycling — no e-bike for me, just my own pedal power.

Stacy (Rogers) Golding: Rob and I are now retired and split time between Chapel Hill, NC (daughters and I are all Dukies — plus I’m very over cold weather), and Vero Beach, FL, where we originally landed because of my parents, who

needed help. And because we’re both avid golfers at this point. Sadly, I’m still pretty bad, but I haven’t given up hope. Miserable game, but highly addictive — one good shot can keep you going for weeks. Our younger daughter, Catherine, is single but “living in sin” near our place in North Carolina (boyfriend works for Duke), our son, Chris, is in Chatham, NJ (three kids and a Dukie wife . . . sensing a pattern?), and our daughter Alex and her family (two kids) are in the Boston area. Life is currently rounded out by our two female golden retrievers. I told Rob early on that dogs would be nonnegotiable but that I’d do all the work. He’s taken me up on that promise. Trinity, our old lady, is now 16½ and Peanut, 3, keeps her moving.

1978

Patricia (Friedman) Marcus balibliss@yahoo.com

1979

Peg (Houghton) Kennedy maggie9194@gmail.com

Laura (Berkowitz) Lokker: I’m still living in Bethesda, MD, and working as a psychologist in Washington, DC, but starting to take more time for travel and hobbies. I recently hiked the Camino de Santiago in Spain and Portugal with my daughter and 16 other women, which was an amazing experience. We also recently celebrated the marriage of one of our sons in D.C. Our other kids live in Brooklyn and Jersey City, so we’re able to get together regularly for family time.

Alison (Bingel) Walsh: Hello, Class of 1979! Where has all the time

gone? So many years have passed, and there are so many memories. I’m currently living in Buckingham, PA, with my husband and two children (one is headed to graduate school and the other is at Penn State University). I retired a few years ago and am loving it! As soon as my husband retires, we plan to move to Portugal. Wishing everyone a healthy and happy 2026.

Jill (Lawrence) Fish: We welcomed our rst grandchild, Gri n Timothy Fish, in October. Our son, Jeremy, daughter-in-law, and Gri n live in San Diego, about an hour south of us. Our daughter has settled in England with her boyfriend. We’re enjoying retired life and thinking of moving to a 55+ community in the spring, in the same neighborhood we’re currently in. We spend several months a year in our home in Playas del Coco, Costa Rica, and travel frequently to Europe to see our daughter.

1981

Kathryn (McDaniel) Nenning kathryn@nenning.com

Hello, Class of ’81! I must not be nearly as persuasive as I fancied myself, because I’ve been unable to charm anyone into sending in news for several years. However, there’s always Facebook. My relatively quick scrolling turned up signi cant life events, a sprinkling of fun facts, and, as we and our parents age, sad news. is is just a sampling of what I found — please write to me for anything I’ve missed (or inaccurately reported) at kathryn@ nenning.com.

Linda (Halsey) Bonadies’s son was married in September on a beautiful (but not dangerous) cli overlooking the ocean. Jan D’Alessandro’s son got married this summer (also by the ocean, but I think closer to sea level), and Kathy (Doherty) Bassiacos’s daughter got engaged. Kathy (Currey) Mann is going to be a grandmother!

Kristin (O’Brien) Arnold took an extensive tour of Central Europe; I only mention mostly because I suspect she was in Vienna (where I live) and didn’t call me for my expert tips — I’m not o ended, but want to encourage anybody who passes through Vienna to contact me — I’m a great tour guide and need an excuse to get out of my routine.

Amy Holman is a constant and comforting presence on Facebook, posting poetry and artwork along with her travel adventures (which, so far, I don’t think have taken her to Vienna, but maybe someday).

Sarah Dougherty recently attended the “No Kings” rally in Morristown and posted a great picture of some grown-ups dressed as large green frogs. Her feed is one to visit if you need cheering up, as she also posts great cartoons. Barbara (White) Boone’s daughter graduated from medical school; this occurred in 2021, but I thought it was worth mentioning. Also, Jan D’Alessandro is friends with Kamala Harris! And many of our classmates have pets.

Now, the news I’ve been putting o . Laura Nash passed away on July 30, 2025, from complications of lung disease. She was surrounded by family and friends, including many from our class. She is survived by her son and daughter, her longtime partner, and her beloved dog. Our condolences to her sister, Mollie-Martha (Nash) Crocker ’79, and the rest of her family and friends.

Both Jan D’Alessandro’s and Amy (Eld) Read’s fathers passed away. And on a tragic note, Amy’s brother-inlaw, the husband of Kathy (Eld) Hiu ’84, passed away last year at age 62 of pancreatic cancer. Amy, whose Facebook feed is always lled with her work as a tennis coach and involvement with the USTA, ran a tournament in early November to raise money for pancreatic cancer. Our hearts go out to all of our classmates who have lost loved ones this year and in years passed.

Looking to the future, our something-th reunion is coming up, the weekend of April 24–25, and I hope many of us will be able to attend. It was great fun scrolling through everyone’s Facebook feed for news, but also a little haphazard (and possibly a bit stalker-ish). Feel free to contact me if you would like to report something that’s not publicly available. Also, you don’t have to give updates on yourself; send me news on classmates you’re in touch with — everything works!

Kent Place heard directly from a couple of you:

Ellen McAfee: I’ve been in Oxford, OH, for seven years now. Can’t believe it. I’ve nally had both knees replaced, which means I can now

walk and, most important, climb stairs. I’ve been teaching pottery at the Oxford Senior Center and love it; it’s what’s keeping me sane at the moment. My cat family has increased/ decreased over time and currently stands at three. Low for me. Overall, I’m happy and healthy, and this crazy cat lady wishes everyone well.

Ann (Grunewald) Fort: Greetings from Atlanta! After a rough few years, my husband, Bruce, had a double lung transplant in March and is recovering well. We’re extra glad that we live so close to Emory Hospital. Both daughters are in Atlanta now, after Evelyn (Bryn Mawr ’23) had her CDC assignment to Cleveland revoked in February. She’ll start a nursing program in January, with the goal of becoming a nurse-midwife. Catherine (Emory ’23) is working at a nancial planning rm and continues her devotion to the weekly farmer’s market at the Carter Presidential Center, selling vegetables and owers to chefs and home cooks alike.

1982

Lisa (Brown) Langley: Love seeing all the KPS friends come to my shop, KIN, on Martha’s Vineyard. I have exciting news: My business, L.A. Brown Photography, is now an online shop, too (https://labphoto. shop). After years of requests and with the help of my niece Kelsey, you can get a wonderful image or my classic dish towels. I’m so excited! See you in person or online. Katherine (Bailey) Rogg: Enjoying sunny Florida and life in paradise. My father (Holmes Bailey) celebrated his 95th birthday, and we enjoy lap swimming and travel. I’m still teaching early childhood education.

1983

Phyllis (Wood) Breese phwb@yahoo.com

1984

Jennifer Thomas meezertee@gmail.com

Judy (Walsh) Baumhover: I want to inspire my fellow alumnae to try something new. My something new began two years ago when I volunteered to drive our small town’s ambulance. Now, due to the natural progression of things, I spend more time in the back of the ambulance as an EMT. Equal

parts rewarding and terrifying (I still jump when the tone goes o ), it has tested me in ways I hadn’t imagined for myself. Most surprising of all, I love it. Wishing you all good health and joy!

1986

Susan Gibson nibbles.inc@gmail.com

I had the pleasure of seeing Kristen (Potter) Farnham, Alissa (Bayha) Buschegger, and Amy (Wanggaard) Hausmann in Portland in September. We had breakfast together, and then Amy, Alissa, and I went to the Umbrella Cover Museum. I also started a new career this summer, working as a community organizer with Together Colorado. I can’t wait to see everyone in April, at our 40th reunion.

Lauren (Kares) Harrison: is year saw me brie y sidelined from horseback riding by shoulder surgery, so I used the found time to start a new company. is is my rst adventure as an entrepreneur, and I love it. My new “baby,” Signal Peak Partners, is a private equity rm specializing in litigation nance. Meanwhile, my real babies are 23 and 21 years old. Layla lives in New York City and works in PR; Lilly is a junior at CU Boulder. Husband Geo and I are still enjoying Houston, but you can be sure I’ll make the trip east for our 40th reunion!

1987

Ginny (Boyer) Losito glosito@me.com

It’s been a season of transitions for me: My youngest son is newly engaged, my middle son recently married, and my oldest son and his wife welcomed their rst child, daughter Charlotte, making me a grandmother! A few months back, I had the pleasure of catching up with Kelly (Mansfield) Brown and Marcy (Meenan) Dean for lunch, welcoming Kelly back “north” as she and her family have moved to New Rochelle, NY, for her new position as VP for institutional advancement at Lehman College. Over the summer, I spent a day with Erika Amato, cheering her through her nal chemo treatment. As always, interactions with my KPS classmates awe and inspire me.

Emily Barton: I’m still teaching creative writing at Oberlin College,

where I’m nishing up a four-year term as department chair. ey’ve been busy years, as the department has grown. My sons are getting so big! Tobias is 17, a senior, and applying to college. His favorite thing is music, playing tuba and sousaphone in his high school bands (concert and marching) and trombone with the Cleveland Youth Wind Symphony. Emmett, 12, is in seventh grade. He tried cross country this semester and really enjoyed it. He’s also been playing soccer with a local rec team, basically the “bad news bears.” After years and years of slowly getting better at the game, they won the local championship in their age bracket this semester. All of the parents and big and little siblings couldn’t believe it; I’m really proud of them. I never expected to have a child who was good at sports! He’s also getting ready for his bar mitzvah next year. Sending lots of love to my Kent Place classmates and friends.

1988

Melissa (McCarthy) Madden melissamccarthy@me.com

As I write this, we’re in the home stretch of 2025. It’s been quite a year. My oldest turns 17 (watch out, Summit drivers!), and is exploring colleges. By the time she graduates, I’ll be right back in the process with my son. Wish me luck, fellow KPS’ers! I’m still teaching Pilates and recently joined Lois Schneider Realtor as a sales associate. After buying and selling many homes over the years, I thought it was time to help others through the process. Happy New Year to all!

1989

Vanessa E. King squamlake@gmail.com

Kate (Alton) Kaynak: Our youngest started college this fall, so we’re downsizing. By the time you read this, we (we hope) will have closed on our new house in Lebanon, NH. I’m looking forward to living in a walkable community, and our favorite Turkish restaurant north of New York City is less than 10 minutes away!

1990

Maren (Eisenstat) Vitali mevitali@comcast.net

Greetings on a beautiful fall day.

REPRINT — THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES

During our fall 2025 “How We Build to Lead” feature, alumnae were invited to contribute their reflections on the theater. We’re reprinting Erika Amato ’87’s thoughts here, exactly as she expressed them, to give her perspective in full:

Believe it or not, I remember when all our performances were held in what was called “The Small Gym” (what became the dance studio). Then, as a sophomore, I was lucky enough to be in the very first play produced in the brand-new Hyde and Watson Theatre — playing the “Mother Superior” in AGNES OF GOD. (All hail the crazy brave genius of Robert Pridham!) That theatre holds so many indelible memories for me: not only did I get to play “Eva” in EVITA my senior year, but after graduation, I gained invaluable professional experience by working at the Equity theatre Mr. Pridham produced in the space during the summer (Stageworks/Summit). In fact, my very first professional acting credit was on that stage — playing “Cynthia” in TO GILLIAN ON HER 37TH BIRTHDAY when I was seventeen. Ten years later, when my band Velvet Chain was on tour, we actually played a full rock concert for the entire student body on that very same stage! (Followed by an educational Q&A about careers in the performing arts, of course!)

It’s hard to say goodbye to a space that was so fundamental to my development both as a performer and a person, but I’m so excited for the future generations of KPS students who will get the chance to work in what I’m sure will be a beautiful, state-of-the-art performance space! My wish for every student who steps on that stage or works behind the scenes is that they’re inspired even half as much as I was by my time performing at KP — the experience will serve them well throughout their lives, whether or not they have any intention of pursuing the arts. Here’s to the new Leadership Center!

I can’t believe how many of us are entering the next stage of life, when our kids are leaving (or getting ready to leave) the nest and ying on their own. It can be both a scary and an exciting time as we adjust to a new normal — a time to discover new passions, complete old projects, and connect with friends from both the past and the present. I hope to attend STAR this year and look forward to chatting with those of you who are able to be there.

Greg and I are o cially “empty nesters.” As much as I love being able to serve cereal for dinner, I miss the noise, mess, and clutter that come with having a house full of boys and their friends. I’m counting the days until winter break, when Aidan returns home from his rst term of vet school in Grenada and Kelan will be home from Gettysburg College.

Amie (Quivey) Quickstad: My husband, Jim, and I spent a lovely long weekend visiting Kathryn (Hudacek) Harlow and her husband, John, on Long Island in September. e weather was beautiful and we had a wonderful time catching up and exploring the North Shore.

1991 Andrea (Carson) Tanner acarsontanner@gmail.com

Sally (Lewis) Meisner: I reconnected with former KPS history teacher John Delautre when I became head of middle school at Rodeph Sholom School, in New York City, in 2023. He’s been a great mentor to me during these last couple of years, and recently visited and toured my school.

Amy Allen: e town of Shelburne, VT, where I live and serve as the poet laureate, recently asked me to extend my tenure, to which I agreed, so I’ll stay on for another two years. In addition to connecting with a variety of townspeople at regional events, the best part of the role is my mentorship and partnership with the junior poet laureate, an eighth-grade student and a remarkable writer who inspires young people to write creatively. We work in conjunction with local schools and the town’s amazing library to get the word out about the value and power of the written word.

Olivia Pennock: Happy to share the news of my wedding, on October 11, to Bjorn Slate in Lincoln, MA. Last year, we purchased a histor-

ic house in Lincoln, which we’re currently renovating. I continue to do fundraising work at Boston Children’s Hospital and am loving being a canine stepmom to Chloe, a black mouth cur.

Allison (Fitzpatrick) Weir: I saw Katina Houvouras and other alums at the Kent Place event in Spring Lake over the summer. Hoping next year we’ll get more of us from the Class of 1991 there. I’m still working hybrid between New York City and Spring Lake and playing tennis on the weekends at the shore. I spoke at the ANA Advertising Law conference in Chicago about developments in the children’s advertising and privacy industry.

1992

Tanai (Sanders) White: In January 2025, I became pastor of the Antioch Baptist Church of Upper Marlboro, MD. Elected in December from among 30+ of my peers (predominantly men), I’m the rst female pastor of this congregation and the third pastor of the church. A bi-vocational minister, I continue to serve as chief of IT accessibility and Section 508 compliance for the National Security Agency.

1993

Courtney (Mead) Nagle courtney.a.mead@gmail.com

Maria Dizzia: Hi! I’m performing in a new play by Wally Shawn, What We Did Before Our Moth Days, o -Broadway, February 4 through April 26, 2026. I’d love to see everyone at the theater! Visit mothdays .com for tickets.

Susanne (Santola) Mulligan P ’27 ’29: Finley ’29 graduated eighth grade last spring, and her “moving up ceremony” was the last o cial event held in Mr. Pridham’s theater. It was extra special that Finley ’29 was chosen as a speaker, given all the memories I have of performing myself on that stage. And she “killed

it,” if I do say so myself! is fall, both Hayden ’27 and Finley ’29 are playing together on the KPS Varsity Field Hockey team, and it’s quite special to watch them on the eld (mostly!) supporting each other. is winter, they’ll be on the ice competing for the KPS Varsity Ice Hockey team. I’m so blessed to share Kent Place with them!

Gabrielle (Costanzo) Long: It’s been a fantastic 50th year, and I celebrated with a college friend by traveling to Greece in June. I reread e House of Mirth after a “Gilded Age” binge and remembered our senior class mascot, Archer. Should we start an alumnae book club and reread texts from our high school

In December 2024, Alexa Biale ’08 joined Figma as the director of EMEA marketing. “This summer, I had the privilege of standing among my fellow leadership team when the company went public on the New York Stock Exchange. It was an emotional, career-defining moment, encapsulated by this photo of me standing with the Fearless Girl on Wall Street. As a Kent Place lifer, this was the perfect homage to all the life lessons I learned there that got me here!”

classes? Email me: gabs316@yahoo .com if you’re interested.

LaRaye Brown: I’m still working for the Department of Defense in New Jersey and getting used to empty nesting while my only child is in Atlanta and playing football at Morehouse College.

Cherie Alco : I’m keeping busy working, being a mom to my almost-12-year-old son, and having fun in New York City. Gregory inherited my love of tennis and we had a blast at the US Open in Flushing this summer.

1994

Christina (Dughi) Tonzola ctonzola@gmail.com

1996

Rachel Platt racheldplatt@gmail.com

Amy (Zucker) Kohen amykohen@gmail.com

Christina PioCosta-Lahue: After many years living abroad and elsewhere in the United States, I moved back to New Jersey in 2020 with my husband and two children (ages 4 and 7). I’ve been managing my family’s multigenerational commercial real estate business and also developing a food waste composting business. My children have enjoyed attending Kent Place Camp for the past few summers!

1997

Kate (Mattern) McGee katematternmcgee@gmail.com

1998

KC (Anthony) Artemenko kcartemenko@gmail.com

1999

Iris Blasi iris.blasi@gmail.com

Cynthia Keenan cindy.keenan@gmail.com

2000

Christine Ryan ceryan@gmail.com

2001

Kimberly (Frye) Alula kfrye05@gmail.com

Sara Pickett-Tucker saralizpickett@gmail.com

Dana Holland: I’m entering my third year as an o cial court reporter for the Southern District of New

York and nally starting to enjoy the commute. Needless to say, all of those KPS English classes are paying o big time.

2002

Erin Sauchelli e.sauchelli@gmail.com

Marla Napurano: My husband, Stuart, and I welcomed our daughter, Serana Philomena Maslow, on October 17, 2025.

2003

Gina Ferraioli ginaferraioli@gmail.com

Barbara Mellen: We moved from Florida to Connecticut this summer and are so happy to be back in the Northeast. One of our favorite activities is hiking in the mountains, far bigger than in Florida. I changed jobs, now working at Ardelyx, back in nephrology sales, where I started my medical-sales career. anks to my kiddo’s request, we started up a Navigators USA Scouting Chapter, and I was recently appointed to the board of Navigators USA. We love that Navigators USA focuses on inclusive Scouting, so any child can be a Scout!

Katherine Kalaris: I nished my PhD at the University of Oxford in October 2024 and stayed on as a postdoctoral researcher. My work currently centers on maternal and newborn health services in Kenya and Nepal and HIV services in South Africa. I teach a master’s course module on health services evaluation.

Amanda (Tarplin) Kirilov: We’re loving life in Fair eld, CT, with our three boys. Our third son, Henry omas, is turning 1 in November. His brother Nicholas is almost 3 and brother Luca is 5.

Danielle Greenman: I started a new role as a PCP at Greenwich Medical Partners and live in Westchester with my two sons and husband.

2004

Laura Kleinbaum lkkleinbaum@gmail.com

Hilary Sayia: On September 13, 2025, I married Manuel Checchin at the Bay Head Yacht Club. Manny, originally from Italy, and I met in 2023 in New York. My sisters, Stephanie (Sayia) Walsh ’95 P ’25 and Whitney (Sayia) Reid ’93, and my niece, Piper Walsh

’25, were part of the wedding party. We spent our honeymoon exploring Japan and are now happily living in New York City. Also in attendance at our wedding were Nancy Van Duyne ’76 and Lili (White) Durling ’72

2005

Cara Manket cara.manket@gmail.com

Alanna (Butera) Georges: Bill and I welcomed a baby girl this past spring. My mom sold her house in Summit and moved close to me on the Philadelphia Main Line.

2006

Lydia Deutsch lydia.deutsch@gmail.com

2007

Nida Abdulla nida.11.abdulla@gmail.com

Caitlin Black cblack@fandm.edu

Sara Santos sarajosantos@gmail.com

Taylor (Worthington) Williams: I’m working in the development o ce at e Peck School, where my daughter, Emerson, just started kindergarten. In the fall, I coached the girls Peck eld hockey team: We went undefeated and won the GMCJSCA Group 1 Tournament. I’m a busy mom of three: Emerson (5), Palmer (4), and Hudson (1). In my free time, I’ve been writing children’s books, which I hope will be published in 2026.

Molly Molendyke: I’m delighted to say that I received my master’s degree in counseling psychology from NYU in May and am now a psychotherapist at e Soho Center in Manhattan, specializing in relationship, family systems, and trauma work. I’d love to connect with other mental health practitioners from the KPS network, and I also have limited availability for new clients in New York.

Isabelle Brohm-Fabian: My partner, Rowan, and I were married in Vermont on November 1, 2025, surrounded by our closest family and friends and our amazing kiddos, Tijan (9) and Zoe (7). In 2024, we bought a house in Bethlehem, PA, where I continue to practice as an attorney specializing in products liability defense work.

Samantha (Cohen) Kaczmarek: I had my third daughter, Jordan

This year marked the final season

Sabrina Skyers ’22 competed as a Division I collegiate volleyball player. “It’s an experience that has strengthened my leadership, discipline, and passion for excellence on and o the court,” she says.

Audrey Kaczmarek, on August 12. Her big sisters, Hailey (5) and Shaina (3), are so happy to have her home!

2008

Allison Oberlander oberlander.allison@gmail.com

Kesi Irvin: I run Follow the Fro Tours, a company specializing in group trips to major bucket-list destinations. I’ve had the pleasure of hosting more than 100 travelers to the polar regions, both Antarctica and the Arctic. For New Year’s Eve 2026/2027, I’ve chartered a 100-passenger expedition cruise to Antarctica.

2009

Courtney (Alpaugh) Simmons courtney.simmons513@gmail.com

Allison Goldberg afg813@gmail.com

Sophia (Gouraige) McGill: My husband and I joyfully welcomed our baby girl, Quinn Reed McGill, on June 29, 2025.

2010

Carly Uhlman carly.uhlman@gmail.com

Claire Marsden: I married Matthew Miller on September 27, 2025, in Accord, NY. Margot Sirois, Liz O’Connor, and Daniela Quintanilla were bridesmaids. Lisa Kretsge and Callie Deddens were also in attendance, as well as one-time Kent Place 2010 classmate Whitney Lee

2011

Lizzy Miggins lizzymiggins@gmail.com

Malina Welman malinawelman@gmail.com

2012

Victoria Criscione victoriaacriscione@gmail.com

2014

Elana Horowitz earned a PsyD — a doctorate in clinical psychology. She was accepted in a post-doc program at Kennedy Krieger Institute, in Baltimore, and she’ll have Johns Hopkins and Kennedy Krieger credentials.

2015

Catherine Owen: In February 2025, I got engaged to my college sweetheart after 8½ years together. e following month, I began a new job at Merkley+Partners as an associate director.

2020

Janeyce McCray: I graduated from Northeastern University with a master’s in public health.

2022

Sabrina Skyers: I’m so proud to tell you that in May 2025, I completed my bachelor of science degree in legal studies in business at Tulane University in just three years. I’m now nearing completion of my master’s degree while preparing for my law school journey for the fall 2026 cycle.

CLASS NOTES DETAILS

• Notes will be collected via Google Form. You will receive a link to this form from your Class Secretary or, if your class doesn’t have a secretary, directly from the school.

• Digital photos should be a high-resolution JPEG image (1M or larger) with a caption. We request that photos include alumnae (with the exception of newborn photos).

• Editorial sta will edit, format, and select all content based on space constraints and will work to incorporate as many notes and photos as possible.

MOMENTS

1. 1958 classmates Ann (Marshall) Searles and Martha (Nettleton) Behr at the National Museum of African American History in Washington, D.C.

2. Lina and Perrin, granddaughter and daughter of Gay (Garth) Legg ’69

3. A “formal” cruise ship picture of Barbara (Weiger) Lepke-Sims ’71 and husband Mike

4. Jamie Gi ord-Modick ’71 and Klaus on Corfu

5. Rosie Dackerman ’71 (left), Pamela (Baker) Harding ’71 (center), and Dan Harding

6. Deborah Besch ’71 and Tyler Anderson in Djúpivogur, Iceland

7. 1971 classmates Deborah Besch and Stacey Miller at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Art in San Angelo, Texas

8. Francine Lynch ’73 hiking up Mt. Etna, in Sicily

9. Betsy (Haas) Anderson ’73

10. Cathy (Ambrose) Smith ’75 and husband Don on an African safari in fall 2025

11. Grandchildren of Cathy (Ambrose) Smith ’75

12. Carolyn (Rumery) Betz ’75 biking in southern Wisconsin

13. Kathleen (39), Michael (29), and Carly (28), the children of Patti Neale-Schulz ’75, at the rehearsal dinner for Michael’s wedding

14. Laura (Berkowitz) Lokker ’79 hiking the Camino in Spain

15. Alison (Bingel) Walsh ’79 and family on vacation in Ireland

16. 1986 classmates Amy (Wanggaard) Hausmann, Alissa (Bayha) Buschegger, Kristen (Potter) Farnham, and Susan Gibson in Portland, ME

17. 1990 classmates Amie (Quivey) Quickstad and Kathryn (Hudacek) Harlow on Long Island

18. Former KPS history teacher John Delautre and Sally (Lewis) Meisner ’91 in Sally’s o ce (with daisy patch in the background, a daily reminder of KPS sisters!)

19. 1991 classmates Karen (Engler) Bartlett, Amy Allen, and Katina Houvouras enjoying a post-dinner summer sunset in New Haven, VT

20. Olivia Pennock ’91 and Bjorn Slate at their October wedding

21. Rev. Tanai (Sanders) White ’92

22. Susanne (Santola) Mulligan ’93 P ’27 ’29 and husband Greg with daughters Hayden ’27 and Finley ’29 at the Kent Place Varsity Field Hockey State Quarterfinals

23. Cherie Alco ’93 and son Gregory at the US Open

24. Elizabeth Wake, daughter of Lindsay (Weinschenk) Wake ’97, and Ben Sobel, son of Elizabeth (Sudler) Sobel ’97, in July 2013 and 12 years later, in July 2025

25. Serafina Philomena Maslow, daughter of Marla Napurano ’02

26. Katherine Kalaris ’03 at her PhD graduation from the University of Oxford

27. Hilary Sayia ’04 and Manuel Checchin on their wedding day

28. Nancy Van Duyne ’75, Whitney (Sayia) Reid ’93, Stephanie (Sayia) Walsh ’95 P ’25, Hilary Sayia ’04, Lili (White) Durling ’72, and Piper Walsh ’25 at Hilary’s wedding

29. Taylor (Worthington) Williams ’07 and her family at their home in Harding, NJ

30. Isabelle Fabian ’07 and Rowan Brohm married at The Barn at Smugglers’ Notch, in Je ersonville, VT.

31. Samantha (Cohen) Kaczmarek ’07 and husband with daughters Jordan, Hailey, and Shaina

32. Sophia (Gouraige) McGill ’09 and family at the pumpkin patch

33. The engagement of Catherine Owen ’15 in Domino Park

15 MINUTES WITH . . .

SIMA PAREKH ’17

Sima Parekh ’17 is a senior associate at Mastercard and has been with the company for nearly five years. In her first role, she helped lead strategic partnerships for Mastercard Community Pass, a social impact fintech that enables the delivery of critical services to rural communities in emerging markets. Now, Sima is part of Mastercard’s global startup team based in London, supporting fintechs to accelerate their growth and innovation. Sima graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics and global health at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

What’s the most fulfilling part of your career? Every market is di erent, and I love that to excel in my job, I need to understand the world: how other cultures trade and transact, how di erent individuals value money, and how marginalized communities prioritize receiving payment quickly. A global career with localized expertise keeps me excited and keeps me learning.

Why did you choose this career path? I’m convinced that most of the world’s supply-and-demand issues can be fixed with better delivery infrastructure. I was excited by Mastercard’s mission to understand how money moves — and, more important, where it doesn’t move to — and democratize it. Large corporations are built to operate and optimize for billions, and I wanted a career that solved things at scale.

What trait in people do you admire the most? Curiosity. I admire people who ask “why” and confront stereotypes, assumptions, and biases with questions rather than accepting them as presented.

How did KPS prepare you for life after high school? At Kent Place, I was more than just a student. I was a tri-season athlete, participated in clubs, played in the orchestra, and was an active member of our lively sisterhood. I always felt that my cup was “filled” and that I could pursue all my passions. I’m grateful that I got to explore so many versions of who Sima was at an early age, and it has kept me happy and satisfied in my life for many years since graduation.

What advice would you give your 15-year-old self? Surround yourself with women who would mention your name in a room full of opportunities and be that woman to others, and have fun.

What would you still want to accomplish? I’d love to open a high-end Mexican-Indian restaurant. If that catches your attention, please reach out!

What are three items you can’t live without? Live music, good pizza, and my passport.

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