PORTSMOUTH ABBEY
W I N T E R B U L L E TI N 2025
P ORTSM O U T H ABBEY
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about Portsmouth Abbey School, view information on upcoming alumni events, and learn more about Reunion 2025 and our Annual Golf Scholarship Tournament.
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If you want to receive Musings, our monthly electronic newsletter, please make sure we have your email address (send to alumni@ portsmouthabbey.org.)
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Message from the Head of School
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Message from the Board Chair
To submit class notes and photos (photos must be original highresolution jpegs), please email to: alumniportsmouthabbey.org or mail to the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs, Portsmouth
5 Board of Directors
Abbey School, 285 Cory’s Lane, Portsmouth, RI, 02871.
6 New Stations Erected on Cross Hill 10
Abbey News and Notes
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C OV E R F E AT U R E A LU M N I P R O F I L E 26
Portsmouth Abbey School
@abbeyravens
@PortsmouthAbbey
@abbeyravens (twitter)
Leo Villareal ’86 Portrait of a Luminary
Portsmouth Abbey’s Alumni Bulletin is published bi-annually for
36 Back to the Classroom Dean of Academics Nick Micheletti ’04 experiences a day in the life of three students 41 Portsmouth Institute A new documentary on the life and legacy of René Girard
alumni, parents, and friends by Portsmouth Abbey School, a Catholic Benedictine preparatory school for young men and women in Forms III-VI (grades 9–12) in Portsmouth, Rhode Island.
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If you have opinions or comments on the articles in the Bulletin, please email: communications@portsmouthabbey.org or write to the Office of Marketing and Communications, Portsmouth Abbey School, 285 Cory’s Lane, Portsmouth, Rhode Island, 02871. Please include your name and phone number. The editors reserve
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Athletics
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Reunion Highlights More than 200 alumni were welcomed home in September
the right to edit articles for content, length, grammar, magazine style and suitability to the mission of Portsmouth Abbey School. Head of School: Matthew Walter P’18 ’20 Assistant Head of School for Development and Alumni Affairs: Stephanie Dwyer
62 Saving Stead Park Alumni work together to rebuild a park and maintain a trust
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Director of Marketing and Communications/Editor: Kristine Hendrickson Editorial Staff and Contributing Writers:
66 Milestones Births, Weddings, Necrology and In Memoriam
Brother Joseph Byron, O.S.B., Darryl De Marzio, Ph.D. P ’26,
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Photography: Jordan Craig, Peter Clough, George Corrigan,
Chris Dormant ’63, Carla Kenahan P’12 ’12 ’12 ’23, Jamie MacGuire ’70, Nick Micheletti ’04, Nora O’Hara P’21,’22,’24,’26, Lauren Revay, Brother Sixtus Roslevich, O.S.B., Brittany Semco, Gary Sheppard, Ph.D.
Class Notes
James Ewing, Randall Hagadorn, Andrea Hansen, David Hansen, Kristine Hendrickson, Tom Kates, Brittany Semco, Joas Souza, VMDO Architects and Louis Walker III. Some individual photos in
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alumni profiles have been supplied courtesy of the respective alumni. Please Help Us Save Printing and Postage Costs: If the addressee of this publication has moved or if you are the parent
about the cover:
Artist Leo Villareal ’86 is profiled in the shadows of his artwork blending code and light. photo by peter clough. Read more on page 26.
of the addressee and they have a new address, please call the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs at 401- 643-1269 or email alumni@portsmouthabbey.org so our records may be updated.
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025
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FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear Portsmouth Abbey Community, Last October, Portsmouth Abbey School hosted a reception in Dallas. In many respects, it was just like one of the many regional receptions we schedule throughout the country each year. Alumni, current parents, and friends of the School gathered to reminisce, catch up on campus news, and enjoy fellowship with Raven faithful. It also included school placement consultants and prospective students and their families, all eager to learn more about what Portsmouth Abbey School offers. (I am pleased to report that two prospective students in attendance ended up applying for admission next year). But in other respects, there was something extraordinary about this reception. It was held at The Star in Frisco, site of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters, which features the spectacular art installation “Volume” by renowned artist and Abbey alumnus Leo Villareal ’86, whom we profile in this issue. While I had heard and read about the installation, I was not prepared for how magnificent it would be to experience it in person. Like many things in life, one must be there to truly comprehend its magnitude, beauty and impact. Such can be said of Portsmouth Abbey as well. I will attempt to share some of Portsmouth’s magnitude, beauty, and impact here, but I encourage you to visit soon so that you, too, can experience its magnificence in person. There is much to celebrate about Portsmouth Abbey School following robust fall and winter terms. While continuing to provide excellence in our core curriculum grounded in the Western Catholic intellectual tradition with an emphasis on the classics, humanities, sciences and liberal arts, we have continued to expand our offerings to include new courses in Economics, AP Government, Fundamentals of Engineering, American Literature Honors, and 20th Century Humanities. Three members of the Sixth Form have been named National Merit Commended
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Students, bringing the total over the last three years to fifteen. Sixty-two students at Portsmouth Abbey School earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP Exams for 2024. Sixth-Form student Alaina Zhang won the Rhode Island Environmental Educator’s Student Award and was named among the “Who to Watch in 2025” featured in four magazines published by Hey Rhody Media, Co. Two other Sixth-Form students, Gabe Devaney and Kate Verderber, received the prestigious Naval ROTC – Marine Option scholarship, two of only 150 awarded nationally. In athletics, varsity girls volleyball, varsity girls soccer, and varsity boys soccer all qualified for the 2024 New England playoffs. The boy’s team finished as a NEPSAC Class C finalist after capturing the EIL regular season and tournament championship while going undefeated at home and in league play. Early admission to colleges is encouraging, with students having been accepted at Stanford, Cornell, University of Chicago, Notre Dame, Georgetown, and Boston College, to name a few. On the admission front, we saw an increase in applications last year for the fourth year in a row, which allowed us to be more selective and lower the acceptance rate. This year, inquiries, visits and interviews are also up for the fourth year. We continue to compete for students with New England’s most competitive boarding schools, yet our admitted student yield remains over 50%. Attrition this past year was the lowest in 10 years and half the national boarding school average, meaning more and more families are finding a home here at Portsmouth. Please continue to refer great families our way! Lastly, we rejoice in the news that Brother Benedict will graduate from seminary and be ordained to the priesthood in May. He will resume residence in the monastery this summer and work in the School this fall. None of this would be possible without the continued prayers and support of a worldwide community of Portsmouth Abbey School alumni, families, and friends. For this, you have our deepest gratitude. If you are ever in Dallas or Rhode Island, you must stop by to see “Volume” and the School; both will inspire you! In Christ and in St. Benedict,
Matthew P. Walter P’18 ’20 Head of School
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025
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MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR
Every year, Portsmouth Abbey School hosts regional receptions around the world where members of the Abbey community can gather to get an update on the Monastery and the School, meet fellow alumni, parents and students, and generally have a great time. I try to attend as many of these events as possible because they are a highly effective tool for getting the word out about what we are trying to accomplish at the Board level – but also to receive feedback. While every reception is special, my favorite is the Abbot’s Reception held every December at the New York Yacht Club in Manhattan. This year’s event drew more than 250 people, including alumni from the sixties to 2023. Catching up with the “mid/late-1980s” crew that shows up in force every year is always a highlight of my holiday season — and this year was particularly enjoyable. Equally exciting for me was the chance to spend time with very recent graduates who attended Portsmouth Abbey with my children and are now starting their careers in New York City. Witnessing their considerable growth in such a short period is inspiring, especially when they articulate how their experience as a Raven had prepared them so well for what they are doing today. With the Abbot’s Reception as the “hook,” we take the opportunity to host one of the four Board meetings immediately prior to the reception. The Board of Directors continues to faithfully look after the Strategic Plan and execute the governance changes made a few years ago. Reports from our external affairs team show that parent participation in the Annual Fund broke a record this year at 82% (and climbing), interest from prospective students has increased four consecutive years in a row and our students are experiencing substantial success in early decision and early acceptance to many of the nation’s top colleges. Our School has never been stronger and momentum is on our side as we prepare for the 100th anniversary of the School’s founding during the 2026-2027 school year. As I reflect on what we will be celebrating during the Centennial year, I can’t help but be drawn back to the shared Benedictine values that have shaped five generations of Portsmouth students. Inspired by the Rule, our love of learning, our focus on balance and discipline and our integration of faith and reason have been hallmarks of the Portsmouth experience for nearly 100 years. However, when you ask alumni what they cherish most from their time on campus, invariably, the answer is the “community.” Benedictine tradition emphasizes community life and Portsmouth aims to foster a strong sense of belonging, encouraging cooperation, respect, mutual support amongst students and a commitment to service. As we approach the next 100 years, these Benedictine values will be our guide and what sets our school apart. Attending events like the Abbot’s Reception brings these values to life — I hope to see you at one soon! Yours in Christ and in St. Benedict,
Christopher Abbate ’88 P’20 ’23 Chair, Board of Directors 4
PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
M IS S ION S TATEMEN T Portsmouth Abbey School helps young men and women grow in knowledge and grace. As a Benedictine boarding and day school committed to excellence, we embrace the Catholic faith while nurturing reverence for God and the human person, love of learning, and commitment to community life.
Portsmouth Abb e y School Board of Directors 2024-2025
Abbot Michael G. Brunner O.S.B. Portsmouth, RI
Mr. James E. Knight ’87 Greenwich, CT
Mr. John D. Servidea P’27 ’27 New Canaan, CT
Mr. Christopher A. Abbate ’88 P’20 ’23
Mrs. Rhonda Landers P’20 ’24 Portsmouth, RI
Mr. Felipe A. Vicini ’79 P’09 ’12 ’19 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Ms. Linda Li P’25 Cleveland, OH
Mr. William G. Winterer ’87 Boston, MA
Dom Benedict Maria O.S.B. Portsmouth, RI
EMERITUS
board chair
Newport, RI Mr. Bernardo Bichara Assad ’92 Monterrey, Mexico Dom Joseph Byron O.S.B. Portsmouth, RI Mr. Ronald W. Del Sesto, Jr. ’86 Washington, D.C. Dr. Debra F. Falvey P’18 ’20 Plaistow, NH
Father Edward Mazuski O.S.B. Portsmouth, RI Abbot Gregory Mohrman O.S.B. St. Louis, MO Mr. Ward K. Mooney ’67 Westport Point, MA
Dr. Timothy P. Flanigan ’75 P’06 ’09 ’11 ’19 Tiverton, RI
Mr. Philip V. Moyles, Jr. ’82 P’22 Rye, NY
Mr. T. Jeremiah Healey ’91 P’21 ’24 Brooklyn, NY
Mrs. Mary Beth O’Connor-Lohuis P’10 ’10 ’21 Quogue, NY
Mr. Denis H. Hector ’70 Miami, FL Mr. Thomas A. Hopkins ’85 Brooklyn, NY Mrs. Cara Gontarz Hume ’99 Hingham, MA Mr. William M. Keogh ’78 P’13 Jamestown, RI
Mr. Peter M. Flanigan’41 g P’75 ’83 GP’06 ’09 ’09 ’11 ’11 ’19 ’19 Mr. Thomas J. Healey ’60 P’91 GP’19 ‘21 ‘24 New Vernon, NJ Mr. William K. Howenstein ’52 g P’87 GP’10 ’17 ’21 ’22 ’24 Mr. Peter M. Kennedy III ’64 P’07 ’08 ’15 Big Horn, WY Mr. Barnet Phillips, IV ’66 Greenwich, CT
Mrs. Daphne E. Robbins ’04 New York, NY
EX-OFFICIO
Dom Sixtus Roslevich O.S.B. Portsmouth, RI
Adam ’94 and Beth Conway P’24 ’26 Parents’ Association Chairs
Mr. Michael R. Scanlan ’82 South Orange, NJ g Deceased
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025
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Members of the Portsmouth Abbey community are familiar with the Good Friday tradition of holding Stations of the Cross on Cross Hill. This year, the Class of 2028 will experience the hike from the garden behind the monastery and be among the first to fully witness the inspiring new Stations installed during the last days of the fall season.
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“I have wanted to do permanent Stations of the Cross for many years,” said Brother Joseph Byron, O.S.B. “Maybe 20 years ago, during one of the last times I went on the Lourdes pilgrimage, I saw a set of bronze plaques of the Stations in a shop. They were beautiful, made in the Benedictine Abbey of Maria Laach in Germany. Mrs. Hope Carter, who led the pilgrimage for many years, saw me admiring them. She graciously extended her generosity to include their purchase. I had no doubt they would be perfect for outdoor Stations at Portsmouth.”
(l) One of the bronze plaques purchased in Lourdes for the outdoor Stations of the Cross. (r) Brother Joseph Byron, O.S.B. stands near the first Station.
According to Brother Joseph, a few technicalities needed to be resolved at that time. Other building priorities and the great highland cows that inhabited the fields and the hill behind the monastery were among them. Given the breed’s hardiness and the terrain in the desired location, the plaques had to be mounted to stone to be truly permanent. “I was sure the highland cows would push over anything I tried to put up,” Brother Joseph remarked. Antonio Ramos P’12, generous benefactor of Portsmouth and head of Granites of America, a huge stone operation in Smithfield, Rhode Island, donated the stone for the steps and pavement around building entrances, including the stone stairs up to the church from the Holy Lawn. Brother Joseph wondered if he would be interested in supporting the revived aspiration. Sadly, Ramos had passed away unexpectedly. ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025
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After his passing Ramos’ widow, Ann Marie, and his daughter Toni ’12 started attending Mass in the Church of St. Gregory the Great. Brother Joseph shared his ideas with Toni, who had participated in the Lourdes program and had prayed the Stations on Good Fridays. She loved the idea, and she and her mother picked the perfect granite stone for the project. Their company provided fourteen nearly ten-foot 1,800 to 2,000 lb. posts to which the bronze plaques purchased in Lourdes were adhered. Once erected, each stands roughly six feet and is embossed with a cross and the corresponding Roman numeral. They also donated two enormous granite benches from their quarry in Maine and had them all delivered. While excited that his vision was finally being fulfilled, and quite quickly at that, Brother Joseph would be lying if he did not admit that he paused momentarily, thinking, “What have I gotten myself into?” Enter John Ferrell, who has managed the two large fields at the top of Cory’s Lane for the monastery. “John came to our rescue,” said Brother Joseph. Ferrell brought in equipment and a crew, and the pillars were erected in one day. (above) Toni Ramos ’12 stands next to the pillars used in the Stations of the Cross installation. (r) John Ferrell raises one of the granite pillars for installation.
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Brother Joseph and Sixth-Form students, John Paul (JP) and Gabriel (Gabe) Devaney have been cleaning up the landscaping around the pillars, hoping that grass will grow in the spring. He is looking forward to sharing the Stations with community members, knowing they will inspire for generations to come. “This beautiful and long-awaited addition of prayer on the grounds was made manifest only through the generosity of the Carter, Ramos, and Ferrell families,” he remarked. The pillars are spectacular and should be timeless, like Stonehenge. Deo gratias.”
The bronze plaques purchased in Lourdes more than 20 years ago are adhered to granite pillars.
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ABBEY
news and notes
New Faculty Bring a Wealth of Experience Portsmouth Abbey School welcomed a group of remarkable new faculty members for the 2024-2025 school year. True to the long-standing tradition of nurturing both minds and spirits, these educators bring excellence in their respective fields and a shared commitment to fostering student growth. Each arrived ready to enrich the academic, spiritual, and personal journeys of our students, advancing Portsmouth Abbey’s mission of deepening intellectual inquiry and cultivating grace that is central to our community.
Andrei Baumann serves as
Chris Benestad joins
Martha Findley is an
the instrumental music director, leading the Sinfonia Orchestra, Chamber Music, and Modern Band programs. With a Bachelor of Music degree from The Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto and a Master of Music in Piano Performance from the New England Conservatory, Andrei brings a lifelong passion for musical excellence to the Abbey, and students have already blossomed under his leadership.
Portsmouth Abbey after 25 years of teaching at St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. He instructs Geometry, AP Statistics, and economics courses, is an affiliate in St. Aelred’s House, and coached girls varsity volleyball and directed the winter Strength and Conditioning program. Benestad holds a bachelor’s degree in science from the University of Scranton and a master’s in mathematics education from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). In addition to teaching at the secondary level, he has held faculty positions at the College of the Holy Cross, Clark University, and Worcester State College.
assistant director of admissions, assistant coach for girls varsity hockey and is an affiliate in Manor House. She graduated from St. Anselm College where she captained the women’s ice hockey team. Findley joined the Portsmouth community after a career in sales and previously coached at Notre Dame Academy.
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Ann Marie Forbes ’96 P’25 ’26 ’28 returns to her alma mater as the database coordinator in the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs and as an athletic trainer. She holds a BS in athletic training from Northeastern University and has been a per diem athletic trainer at Portsmouth Abbey for the past eight years.
Kristin Harper, Ph.D. ’09
Abby Hillebrecht arrived on
Anna Moran teaches
Gary Sheppard, Ph.D.
returns to Portsmouth Abbey as a humanities and Latin teacher, an affiliate in St. Brigid’s House, and a field hockey and wrestling coach. She holds a BA in Classics and Liberal Studies from St. Anselm College, an MA in Classical Languages, and a Ph.D. in Classical Studies from the University of Missouri. Harper has been an instructor at Missouri State University for the past four years.
campus from Middlebury College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in history. She teaches Introduction to Literature, works in the Office of Admission, is an affiliate in St. Benet’s House, and coaches girls’ lacrosse. She was a member of Middlebury’s three-time NCAA women’s national championship lacrosse team and has pursued further studies at Yale and Columbia Universities.
Spanish, serves as a houseparent in St. Mary’s House, and assists with girls’ JV soccer and sailing. A Fenwick Scholar at the College of the Holy Cross, she double-majored in Spanish and English and served as co-editor of The Fenwick Review and co-chair of The Society of Saints Peter and Paul.
teaches U.S. History while continuing to serve as the communications strategist for the Office of Marketing and Communications. Gary has taught at Florida State University and the University of Mississippi and has an extensive academic background with multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. in English from Florida State University. He also leads faculty training and support for the School’s Veracross learning management system. Before joining the faculty at Portsmouth Abbey, Gary worked as assistant executive director of Humanities Iowa and director of communications at GrantWorks, Inc., Texas’s largest privately-held government services consulting firm.
John Bohan Joins Development Team As a parent and board member, John Bohan P’20 ’22 ’26 has been a friendly and familiar face on campus. In January 2025, he stepped down from a position he has held since 2019 as a member of the Board of Directors (formerly the Board of Regents) to transition to a full-time role as a senior development officer in the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs. Most recently, Bohan served as an independent advisor and consultant to firms in the financial services sector. His career spans more than 25 years in banking, global markets, and technology, specializing in sales, capital raising, operations and leadership. He has held senior roles in New York, Boston, London, and Tokyo, working at global banks and at an emerging growth technology company in the asset management industry. Additionally, Bohan is a Trustee Emeritus and former chair of the board of trustees” (2017-2024) at St. Philomena School of the Sacred Heart in Portsmouth and has worked to support several non-profit organizations. He and his wife, Anne, are the parents of four daughters: Elizabeth, Cecilia ’20, Caroline ’22, and Lily ’26. ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 11
ABBEY NEWS AND NOTES
A Memorable 2024 Parents’ Weekend On a stunning weekend October 10-12, nearly 900 family members energized the Portsmouth Abbey School campus during Parents’ Weekend 2024. The enthusiasm of our teachers, students and parents was as bright as the autumn foliage. The Parents’ Association welcomed parents at the Thursday evening reception where our faculty and parents could gather on the eve of a full day of classes and parent-teacher conferences. The evening will be remembered for its warm, convivial atmosphere and the magical display of the Northern Lights over the Holy Lawn and the Church of St. Gregory the Great. This rare and breathtaking natural phenomenon added a touch of wonder to an already special event. Abbot Michael, students, Parents’ Association Chair Adam Conway ’94 P’24 ’26 and Head of School Matt Walter had the opportunity during Friday’s Assembly to speak to students and parents offering prayers, birthday wishes, club announcements, and ways parents can contribute to the School and Abbey community. (top) The legacy family photo and welcome banner are traditions during Parents’ Weekend. Eva Madden ’26 had a cheering squad during her cross country race. Angela and Michael Maskara P’28 enjoy the reception. Abbot Michael Brunner, O.S.B. is joined by Dr. John Hayes GP’27, Marcel DaQuay and Janessa LeComte-DaQuay P’28. 12
PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
On Saturday after classes, our Korean parents gifted the community with a delicious Korean Feast. Form Chairs did a fantastic job representing their forms by attending the Parent Luncheon, greeting fellow parents at the hospitality tents, and inviting parents to learn more about the opportunities to volunteer throughout the year. The School extends its gratitude to the parent volunteers who helped during the weekend and those who continue to support our community.
The aurora borealis brought added beauty to the night sky during the reception for parents. (top) Parents cheer and help answer questions in the food tent during athletic events. The Korean Food Festival was a big hit for everyone on campus during Parents’ Weekend.
Portsmouth Abbey School Partnered with Pennfield School to Host Author Ellen Galinsky Portsmouth Abbey’s Winter Wellness Week for students ended with the annual Winter Family Day on Saturday, February 1. Portsmouth Abbey’s Winter Wellness Week for students ended with the annual Winter Family Day on Saturday, February 1. This year, the School partnered with the Pennfield School in Portsmouth, Rhode Island to host Ellen Galinsky, the Families and Work Institute president and best-selling author, as a special guest presenter. Galinsky shared tailored insights from her new book, “The Breakthrough Years,” in an event for each school based on their audience. The book explores adolescence through groundbreaking research and shatters common stereotypes about teens and tweens. 1 ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 13
ABBEY NEWS AND NOTES
As the Families and Work Institute co-founder and an internationally recognized expert on work-life balance, children’s development, and parenting, Galinsky has spent decades at the forefront of research and advocacy. Between 2016 and 2022, she served as chief science officer for the Bezos Family Foundation, contributing to initiatives to improve early learning and youth development. Her life’s work has revolved around identifying pressing societal questions, conducting rigorous research, and turning those findings into actionable insights. “The Breakthrough Years,” published in March 2024, is the result of nine years of extensive research, including three original studies. The book has already earned acclaim, with Adam Grant, author of “Hidden Potential,” calling it “a stereotypesmashing masterpiece,” and Dan Siegel, author of “The Whole-Brain Child,” describing it as a “mustread for anyone raising a teenager.” “Ellen’s insights into adolescence are transformative,” said Meghan Fonts, director of parent rela-
tions at the Abbey. “We were thrilled to offer our parents the opportunity to learn from one of the most respected voices in child development and family dynamics.” Galinsky’s impressive career includes serving as the elected president of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, senior science advisor to AASA, and senior advisor to the Assistant Secretary of Youth Mental Health. She has authored over 90 books and 360 articles and received numerous honors, including the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Work and Family Researchers Network. The event is part of Portsmouth Abbey School’s commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue on issues that impact students, families, and educators. The school hopes to continue developing programs that engage today’s leading thinkers. Forty-one families attended the presentation and later enjoyed watching their students perform in rehearsals and with their respective athletic teams.
SPRING FAMILY DAY SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2025
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8:30am-Noon: Grandparents Day Program Noon-5pm: Home Games and BBQ!
Letters Home Veterans Day and “Brief Talk” reflect the timeless perspective of war. On Veterans Day, the School assembled to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The program included thoughtful reflections, family stories, and poignant readings in tribute to the manifold sacrifices made in the name of freedom. Reminding attendees to value these sacrifices, Father Gregory Havill, O.S.B., opened the assembly with a prayer, asking for eternal peace for those who gave their lives while serving our country. Dr. Bryndol Sones, math teacher and retired Army Colonel, spoke about service as a core value of the Portsmouth Abbey community. He highlighted the example of Andrew Damasio ’21, who currently serves in the military. Sones also recognized several veteran staff members in the audience, including coaches Jonathan Harley, Hugh Richardson, and Wayne Turner, Nora O’Hara director of development data and analytics, James Merkel, senior accountant and Amy Stowe, nurse. He then encouraged students to engage veterans by asking about their experiences.
Moment of silence.
of a Vietnam soldier’s harrowing combat experience. Billy Jin, Hayden Bordelon, Evie Meko and Tessa Reid also contributed powerful readings. Director of Library Services Mary Fran Vesey offered a personal perspective by reading a family member’s letter to his father before he was killed in action during World War II. Alumni and former faculty who attended Dom Damian Kearney’s “Brief Talk in the Abbey Church” on November 11, 2001, may recount how he also used letters to reflect thoughtfully on the holiday’s origins, reminding the audience that “the chapel at the rear of our church has been dedicated to the memory of those alumni who
Fifth-Form students Charlotte Bonny and Whitaker Williams read a selection from “Letters Home,” recounting the Bataan Death March.
A series of readings brought history to life, with FifthForm students sharing letters from soldiers across eras, from the Civil War to Vietnam. These letters offered glimpses into the struggles, resilience, and humanity of those who have served. Highlights included Charlotte Bonny and Whitaker Williams’ emotional readings of World War II correspondence related to the Bataan Death March and Brody Cimaglia’s powerful recounting
Mary Fran Vessey tells those gathered during the Veterans Day Ceremony about the pivotal letter her great uncle wrote to his father justifying his reasons for remaining in a dangerous position (B17 waist gunner) rather than accepting a promotion that would have offered him a safer role.
Brody Cimaglia ’26 reads a powerful recounting of a Vietnam soldier’s harrowing combat experience.
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ABBEY NEWS AND NOTES
gave their lives for their country in World War II and the wars in Korea and Vietnam.” A typed version of his address with handwritten notes was recently found during the archiving process. After nearly a quarter-century, it was a reminder that sometimes what seems old is, in fact, timeless. Father Damian mentioned the contributions made by several monks to some of the twentieth-century wars, including Father Hugh Diman, who joined the war effort in 1917 and held the rank of Captain while serving with distinction for the British Red Cross at camps of the Royal Airforce in England. Father Wilfrid Bayne served in the Navy, Father Benedict Lang flew missions in a B-29 from Saipan in the South Pacific, and Father Ambrose Wolverton served as an officer aboard the aircraft carrier USS Leyte during the Vietnam War. Yet it was letters from Father Laurence McGann in 1942 and 1943 on which he chose to dwell. Letters home to Portsmouth, sharing firsthand descriptions of what some are willing to endure to support their country. Father McGann entered Portsmouth Priory in his early twenties after graduating from Fordham University. He was considered unique because he had access to a Piper Cub airplane that he kept at the airstrip in Middletown. In 1941, before the United States entered the War, he was permitted to enlist as a pilot-chaplain in the Naval Air Corps. His tenure in Portsmouth only
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lasted one year due to his acceptance into the military chaplaincy. He would devote most of his remaining years to this service. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery, one of the few Catholic priests to have received this honor. Father Damian knew Father Laurence as a First-Form student in 1940, before the United States entered the War. He presided in the dining room at the table for the youngest boys. These were First-Form and Pre-First-Form boys, primarily international, between nine and eleven years old. They had been evacuated from England during the summer of 1940 to safely spend the earliest years of the war in the United States.
Dom Damian Kearney, O.S.B.
Father Laurence wrote several letters home to the Prior, who then shared them with the boys as they gathered in the chapel. The first was dated October 1942. In it, Father Laurence commented that his flock was scattered over a twelve-hundred-mile area. He could reach most of them every week by plane, making three stops en route to say Mass, hear confessions, visit hospitals, or bury those who died at the hands of the enemy. He wrote of saving 12 nuns who were Marist missionaries but also of
An early photo of boys entering the chapel where Father Laurence McGann’s letters were read.
being too late to save four of their colleagues. It was, as he described, “a stark reality,” but an opportunity he gratefully appreciated. He wrote again in December 1942 and January 1943. Much like those read by students this year, his letters aptly described life for a chaplain on the front lines. He wrote from Guadalcanal, where some of the heaviest fighting occurred. “The average age of those Marines who took Guadalcanal was under 20 years,” he exclaimed. “Warfare, Malaria, and cannibals were the three enemies,” he described. He referred to falling coconuts as a possible fourth, writing that they occasionally made “direct hits.” Father Damian recalled it as both an exciting and dangerous time. “We in the chapel, where the Prior read the letters, were given a personal taste of what
we could only read in heavily censored newspapers or hear on the radio in the common room.” He concluded his talk by recognizing that while times have changed, and we now deal with threats from terrorists and new diseases, inspiration can always be drawn from those who serve and their letters home—a sentiment expressed by Dr. Sones and those participating in the ceremony this academic year. As has been the tradition, the Veterans Day ceremony concluded with the names of the deceased Portsmouth alumni found on the chapel wall being solemnly read. “Taps” was then played, offering a final, haunting tribute to the fallen. The program was a moving reminder of the enduring importance of gratitude and the need for increased devotion to veterans and their families in a community committed to service.
Celebrating Student Success Two Ravens Receive Prestigious NROTC Scholarship Sixth-Form students Gabriel (Gabe) Devaney and Kate Verderber have each been awarded a four-year Marine ROTC scholarship, a recognition that places them among the most exceptional young leaders in the nation. This highly competitive scholarship covers full tuition and can be applied to any pre-approved college or university that hosts a Marine ROTC program. Captain Benjamin Wallace, the regional ROTC coordinator, personally presented the scholarships, underscoring the significance of their accomplishment. “This is a rare and extraordinary honor,” Wallace noted. “Nationwide, only 150 candidates were awarded in this first round, and just 30 from the Northeast region. For Portsmouth Abbey to have two recipients in this cohort speaks volumes about the caliber of these students and this community,” Wallace said.
(L-R) Head of School Matt Walter, Kate Verderber ’25, Gabe Devaney ’25 and Director of College Counseling Diane Soboski.
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ABBEY NEWS AND NOTES
Three Named as Commended Students in National Merit Scholarship Program 2025 Approximately 34,000 students throughout the nation were recognized in the fall for their exceptional academic promise, each receiving a “Letter of Commendation” from Portsmouth Abbey School and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Commended students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2025 competition by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). Sixth-Form students Xingchuan (Ryan) Ma, Ziyu (Jennifer) Rui and Jimin (Jennifer) Shon were recognized by Head of School Matt Walter and Assistant Head of School and Dean of Academics Nick Micheletti ’04 during Assembly on September 23.
Enyu (Alaina) Zhang ’25 Earns Additional Recognition for Kelp Research As noted in earlier School communications, Enyu (Alaina) Zhang ’25 has been working to continue her research transforming kelp to aid in mitigating climate impacts. She recently traveled to Boston at the invitation of the New England Water-Environment Association (NEWEA) to receive official recognition as the Stockholm Junior Water Prize recipient from Rhode Island during their 2025 Annual Conference. Additionally, she was named one of Hey Rhody Media’s 10 honorees in their 2025 “Who to Watch” changemaker feature sponsored by the University of Rhode Island College of Business. Her interview appeared in all four regional publications throughout the state and on social media through @heyrhody. Honorees will be recognized officially at a celebration in Providence in April.
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Raven Community Purchases 260 Winter Coats for Children and Teens in Need The Raven community raised $1,636 to buy 260 winter coats for local children and teens in need during the 2024 holiday season—evidence of the spirit of generosity and service that defines the School. Funds were collected through a series of student-led events, with each house contributing uniquely as part of the quest for the Raven Cup. St. Brigids House and St. Aelred’s House delighted the community with homemade crepes, and St. Martin’s and St. Benet’s spread holiday cheer with candy cane grams. Established in 1990, Clothe-A-Child is the Abbey’s longest-standing community outreach program. St. Hugh’s and St. Mary’s earned special recognition for their efforts in supporting the program through their enthusiasm, collaboration, creativity, and funds raised per house.
Catholic Schools Week, Lunar New Year and Winter Wellness Week Promote Spirituality, Transformation and Peace of Mind January 27 through February 1 offered opportunities for the community to come together in faith, highlight the significance of the Lunar New Year for some of our students and reduce stress through activities and presentations highlighting transformation, spirituality and overall wellness. The week’s events included special snacks and food each day in the dining hall, a celebratory dinner to launch the Year of the Snake, and succulent planting sponsored by the medical services team. Succulents are perfect for student rooms and can filter air, and aid in stress reduction and mindfulness. Among the best purifiers are in fact, snake plants and aloes. On Tuesday, a student-led effort to “pack the Church” for morning Mass began. Each Tuesday morning through the end of the academic year, students are encouraged by their peers to gather for morning
Mass. The effort is voluntary and invites students to come together in spiritual solidarity – reinforcing that they are not alone as they start their day. Alumna Brenna Toland ’98, owner of Next Chapter Wellness, returned to campus to provide tips to students for managing stress during their active lives and nutritionist Jeanne Hendricks spoke to students about how eating patterns impact energy, mood, Briana Toland ’98 focus and stress levels. Faculty members also brought their pets to take part in a pet therapy stress reduction program and Margaret Sheppard ’06, English and humanities faculty member, led a guided meditation session with an emphasis on relaxation and deep breathing techniques. ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 19
ABBEY NEWS AND NOTES
Sharing Their Talent Students and faculty put their creativity on display through performing and visual arts
Olivia Murray ’26
Whether rocking around the tree together during the annual Christmas assembly or filling the McEvoy gallery with works that showcase their imagination, technique, and thematic depth, students and faculty regularly display the joyful results of artistic exploration when sharing their talents with the greater Portsmouth community. Scenes from everyday life brought color and zest to gallery spaces as two visual exhibitions highlighted student and faculty works. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream“ was explored and Cory’s Lane became One Cherry Tree Lane through the magic of stagecraft. Everyday life in England in 1910 was less than ordinary due to a spoonful of sugar and the musical “Mary Poppins.” The following pages offer an inspiring glimpse into the artistic lives of those who enrich our community.
Megan O’Connor ’26
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Odunayo Adelaiye ’25 does more than “Step in Time” during the Winter Musical.
Mary Poppins (Lila Bragan ’25) gives Jane (Callie PattenHarding ’28) a spoonful of sugar.
Oberon (Andrew He ’25) puts a spell on Titania (Alaina Collins ’25).
Lorenzo Munda ’27 as Chimney Sweep Bert. The stage crew shares their talent behind the scenes.
Julius Epke ’25 as Puck in a Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Scenes from everyday life presented through Fundamentals of Art.
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ABBEY NEWS AND NOTES
The annual Faculty Art Show celebrated the creative visions of its artists but also underscored the unique admixture of innovation, talent, and creative expression characteristic of Portsmouth Abbey School’s one-of-a-kind faculty. Through their work, our faculty remind us that art, like the bay that gives us daily inspiration, is both a peaceful meditation and a tumultuous yet beautiful force, the experience of which better positions us to feel and to understand the realities of our world.
[ The following faculty and staff comprised this year’s exhibit: ] Elizabeth Benestad: The Beauty of Familiar Landscapes
Brittany Semco: Personal Histories in Paint
Head of Classics Department Elizabeth Benestad captured the beauty of Portsmouth Abbey’s natural surroundings with chromogenic color prints of campus landscapes and buildings. Her photographs, vibrant and contemplative, reminded viewers of the serene beauty woven into the School’s daily rhythms.
Marketing and Visual Design Specialist Brittany Semco brought a touch of intimacy and storytelling to the gallery with her captivating trio of works. A delicate watercolor scene invited reflection on nature and stillness, while a bold oil painting explored the vibrant intensity of the natural world’s colors. Completing the collection, an evocative acrylic portrait of her grandfather intertwined personal memory with universal emotion. Each piece demonstrates Semco’s talent for blending personal narratives with resonant artistry.
Alessandra Micheletti ’05: Finding Grace in the Everyday Alessandra Micheletti, Art History teacher, elevated the ordinary with her graphite drawings of found and everyday objects. Her pieces transformed the mundane into meditative studies, celebrating the inherent beauty of the domestic and familiar. Micheletti’s work spoke to the power of observation and the artistry in life’s simplest moments.
Mark Nadeau: Explorations in Form and Perspective Director of Fine Arts, Mark Nadeau brought a multifaceted body of work that challenged the viewer to consider the interplay of space, color, and texture. His digitally created images, printed with pigmented inkjet on Hahnemühle Photo Rag Baryta, were a study in abstraction, where every line and hue invited contemplation. Complementing these were his serene wheel-thrown white stoneware bowls, each imbued with quiet precision and elegance. Nadeau’s digital photographs of Paris, Chartres, and Versailles provided a poignant counterpoint, offering glimpses of historical grandeur through a refined lens.
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Diane Soboski: Light Captured in Glass Director of College Counseling, Diane Soboski showcased an exquisite understanding of glasswork. Her untitled series of fused glass trays shimmered with layered complexity, while her stained-glass depiction of a boat on water invoked a sense of tranquility. Soboski’s work invited viewers to consider the fluidity of light and the tactile allure of form.
Ryan Walker: Life at the Abbey, Brought to Life Visual Arts Teacher Ryan Walker’s oil-on-linen works breathed life into Portsmouth Abbey’s landscapes and daily scenes. From the evocative domestic warmth of Nap Sketch and Burping the Baby to the atmospheric sketches of the Bay and Boathouse, Walker’s pieces were representations of an affectionate realism that resonates deeply.
Alessandra Micheletti ’05 Elizabeth Benestad
Diane Soboski Mark Nadeau
Brittany Semco
Ryan Walker
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ALUMNI PROFILE
Portrait of a Luminary Leo Villareal ’86 BY GARY SHEPPARD, PH.D.
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Leo Villareal ’86. PHOTO: PETER CLOUGH ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025
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Leo Villareal’s work is a luminous exploration of transitions— of movement through spaces, disciplines, and the often unseen, shadowed edges of reality itself. His shimmering light sculptures do more than occupy spaces; they surge and thrum with yearning, making moments of abstraction that strike both gut and mind. Villareal’s art lives where the cool precision of code meets the ache of human artistry, where light seems to think, to breathe. To grasp an artist who embraces randomness and wields code like oil paint, begin with the sunbaked environs of El Paso, Texas. Follow him to the Bellusci-
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designed halls of Portsmouth Abbey in the 1980s, where his earliest experiments took shape, and trace his trajectory into a world charged with the hum of light and motion. Villareal isn’t concerned with beautifying spaces so much as he is in bending them, coaxing technology into sensation and abstraction into selfguided discovery. In the fall, Portsmouth Abbey School hosted an alumni reception at The Star,
the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters in Frisco, Texas, where Villareal’s stunning “Volume” adorns the grand entryway. A short time later, we were lucky enough to have the opportunity to sit down with this remarkable artist and speak at length about his life and work within the context of his education at Portsmouth Abbey.
Illuminated River, 2019, The Thames, London, UK PHOTOS: JOAS SOUZA ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025
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The Abbey Years In 1983, at 16, Leo Villareal left the bright expanses of Juarez-El Paso — a city straddling two countries, two worlds —for New England and Portsmouth Abbey School. Enormous and disorienting, the shift to his new home would ultimately prove to be a welcome one. “It was a big change,” he says. “I was looking to expand my world, and suddenly, I was surrounded by people doing theater, drawing, and making art that was so different from back home. That was kind of amazing.” While Villareal grew up in a family that appreciated art from nearby Santa Fe and Mexico, Portsmouth Abbey cracked something open in him. The School paired its academics with room to wander and test ideas. Donald McGuire, the art teacher at the time and namesake of the current Fine Arts Building on campus, quickly became a guide and inspiration. McGuire wasn’t just teaching; he was pulling students into museums, talking about art movements, and supporting his students’ extracurricular experiments, many times supplying the necessary materials himself. Recalling the creation of his final painting while attending Portsmouth, Villareal spoke of this kind of support typical of McGuire. As a student, Villareal had one day taken a flat leftover from the set of one of the student plays and turned it horizontally to create a large abstract painting, a project that never would have been without Donald McGuire supplying all of the paint and the other resources Villareal needed. In addition to paint and supplies, McGuire did what he’d done for 28
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countless students over the years: he stayed excited about what was created, encouraging students to create something that was really outside of the box, and thereby creating so many Portsmouth artists. At the Abbey, the world came into focus for Villareal, also through his classmates. They were interested in all varieties of art, talked about new ideas (or ideas new to them), and listened to and shared experimental music like Laurie Anderson’s “Big Science.” It was through this new lens that Villareal saw the boundary between sound and art blur. He read Russell’s “Meanings of Modern Art” and felt the weight of
what art could do. On trips back home, his father, a collector of early American and Latin American works, would talk long and thoughtfully about contemporary art — new terrain for both of them, made intimate through Villareal’s studies. Portsmouth Abbey has never simply taught the young minds that arrive on campus. The School teaches and encourages the art of collaboration. Theater, music, shared projects — everything comes back to working with others, finding the line between the individual and the group, where magic tends to happen. Like so many Portsmouth students before and after
Volume (Frisco), 2016 LEDs, custom software & electrical hardware, stainless steel, 480 x 360 x 1080 inches Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters, Frisco, Texas PHOTOS: JAMES EWING / JBSA ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025
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Villareal, these moments began shaping his sense of scale and forming his drive to bring people together and immerse them in a shared space, a shared experience of art. Then there were the trips. To Boston. To New York. To Europe with a 35mm film camera. Villareal traveled at every opportunity, framing the world for himself by absorbing all that art and the world had to offer. Back at the Abbey, he would project these images for his classmates and friends, telling stories not fully formed. Influenced by the newly-launched Music Television Network and their unique animations and music videos, he connected to a rented video projector in the auditorium and made his own brand of these kinds of animations. At some of the dances, he would combine sound and light and create new, shared experiences. It was a process of seeing, recording, reframing — a rhythm he never let go of.
For Villareal, his time at Portsmouth was about more than school. It was a time of intellectual and artistic foment when all experiences were about experiencing as much of reality as possible. Nothing was a genre or a discipline. It was all toward growing and developing a personal, individual vision of the world, one that saw light as space, sound as form, and the world as a series of gestures that could be shaped and re-shaped. Not about rules or mastery; it was about stepping into the unknown, again and again, and trusting that something would emerge. For him, it did.
Crossing Borders, Crossing Boundaries Leo Villareal grew up in a world of crossings. Each day, he slipped between two nations, two languages, two ways of life. “Crossing the border several times a day was normal,” he says. The boundary didn’t divide; it merged. The flow between El Paso and Juárez etched itself into him, carving a comfort with movement and transitions, a way of understanding the blending of various elements as natural and even necessary, a quality revealed in his approach to art. “I love blending together a lot of different disciplines: art, programming,
In addition to art classes and culture trips, he developed a love for computer science during his years at the Abbey. This was in the early years of computers with paper rolls and connections to the mainframe; a very different time. Though he brought an Apple II Plus computer with him to Rhode Island, he branched out into learning graphics and sound and voice synthesizers. He studied what he could get his hands on about mainframes and programming, disciplines he went on to pursue in graduate school in the Interactive Telecommunications program, part of the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University. Artist Leo Villareal ‘86 views his work. PHOTO: PETER CLOUGH
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engineering, architecture. So, in making these hybrid forms, it’s not just that we’re doing this one thing or this other, we’re blending in a sense of collaboration and making new hybrid forms that we haven’t really thought about before.” That rhythm — the blend, the shift, the flow — would become the very armature of his work. At Portsmouth Abbey, Villareal dabbled, appreciated and experimented. After graduation, he went on to Yale, where he would come into his own as an artist. In New Haven, he initially pursued set design while inundating himself in art history. Vincent Scully
His work is a crossing, a way to hold light and let it go, a way to move between the visible and the yet-to-be seen. Artist Leo Villareal ’86 collaborates with team members. PHOTO: PETER CLOUGH
lectured on space, on structure, on how to see what holds things together. Although an immense force and figure in the art world, it wasn’t Scully who detonated the idea of what Villareal’s art could become. That honor belongs to Alice Aycock, who taught Villareal’s installation sculpture class. “That’s when I decided I wanted to be an artist,” Villareal says. The revelation wasn’t just about medium; it was about freedom. No scripts, no stages, no limits. “I realized I could do all the things I was trying to do with set design, but in a different way, where I didn’t necessarily need a play or actors or any of it, and I could just make these environments with light and sound.” Europe unraveled him further. After graduation, he interned at the Peggy
Guggenheim Collection in Venice, absorbing the language of modernism and minimalism. Then, in Varese, Italy, the Panza Collection took what was left of his old self and created from it a new vision with new influences and collaborators. Turrell’s “Sky Space.” Dan Flavin’s fluorescent sculptures. Bruce Nauman’s “Corridors.” Light. Space. Movement. “Seeing all these works fundamentally changed how I thought about what art could be,” Villareal says. He’d seen how light could hold meaning, how absence could thrum with presence, how space could both embrace and estrange. The borderlands, Portsmouth, Yale, Europe. More than places, they were stages in an unfolding, each leaving its mark. From Juárez, Villareal took fluidity, the understanding that
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borders are illusions. From Portsmouth, the foundations and the permission to experiment. From Yale, the rigor and boundlessness of the professional artist. From Europe, he took the stripped-down, the essential. Minimalism, not as style, but as necessity. Asking: what’s left when you’ve burned everything else away? The answer can’t be found in any single object that Villareal has made.
The Bay Lights, 2012 LEDs, custom software, electrical hardware San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, San Francisco, California PHOTOS: JAMES EWING / JBSA
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In a sense, he doesn’t even make objects. He doesn’t make art that sits. His installations move and breathe. They pulse. They collapse the space between what you see and what you feel while inviting the expansion of the individual’s awareness most of all. His work is a crossing, a way to hold light and let it go, a way to move between the visible and the yet-tobe-seen.
The Light and the Code Villareal’s practice truly crystallized when he combined his love for light with his deep interest in technology. After completing graduate studies at NYU’s Interactive Telecommunications program, he spent three years in a Palo Alto research lab, searching for how he could use light in a way that connects
to the software. The result was a unique approach: using the principles of computer programming and algorithmic design to create light sequences that evoke both natural phenomena and human emotion. “I’m interested in digital campfires,” Villareal explains. “Light has this elemental power to draw people together the way a campfire would, so the goal, I think, is to bring people
and seen by tens of millions of people, exemplify his ability to create communal experiences through abstraction on a scale that would make most artists dizzy. “Abstraction keeps things open-ended,” he says. “It allows viewers to bring their own interpretations, maintaining a sense of mystery. Typically, you might look at something like this and say, ‘Oh, that’s what this is,’ then move on. But with
immersive journeys. Yet, as he delved deeper, he found these early digital spaces lonely and unsatisfying. Light, he realized, could bridge the gap between the digital and the tangible, creating shared, communal experiences. Villareal’s use of technology is not merely a tool but a medium in its own right. His process of coding is akin to painting, where algorithms serve as
“ Code allows
me to create sequences that mimic the unpredictability of nature.
”
together and to give them this communal aspect.” Unlike traditional static art forms, Villareal’s pieces are dynamic, nonrepeating, and deeply tied to the concept of time. Works like “The Bay Lights” in San Francisco and “Illuminated River” in London, both public art projects of massive scale
these pieces, you can’t really do that.” The interplay between light and technology was not an overnight discovery. Villareal’s early experiments with Apple II Plus computers and video projectors in the 1980s hinted at his future trajectory. By the time he reached NYU, his explorations expanded into virtual reality and
brushstrokes to craft compositions of light. “Code allows me to create sequences that mimic the unpredictability of nature,” he says. His works often draw inspiration from natural phenomena, such as the rippling of water or the flickering of fireflies, translated into mesmerizing visual symphonies. ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025
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A Philosophy of Connectivity At the core of Villareal’s work is a desire to connect people. “I’ve always been drawn to the idea of creating shared experiences,” he says. His works trend toward expression of a universal language, crossing cultural and geographical boundaries. Whether it’s a temporary installation that becomes permanent due to public demand or a project that integrates seamlessly into its environment, Villareal’s art often transcends its original scope. His ethos of connection is deeply rooted in his multi-disciplinary approach. “There’s just something pleasurable about looking at light and then adding the code part. There’s a sequence to it, so there’s information. I’m using all the same tools you would see in an advertising context, LED arrays and other things. But I’m removing the commercial message and leaving the dazzling optical properties that these have. So, repurposing and creating a different kind of experience does elicit a sense of wonder and awe, because it’s related to things we see in nature that we all respond to.” This philosophy is evident in projects like “Infinite Composition” at Brown University, where Villareal recently returned to Rhode Island to install a piece that celebrates interdisciplinarity with a wonder rooted in the natural world and, therefore, natural to mankind. 34
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Infinite Composition, 2023 LEDs, glass, steel, aluminum, custom software & electrical hardware 354 x 1057 x 120 inches The Lindemann Performing Arts Center, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island PHOTOS: JAMES EWING / JBSA
The communal aspect of Villareal’s work is perhaps best illustrated by “The Bay Lights.” Installed on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, the project draws millions of viewers annually. “Anyone can look at it and have a response,” Villareal notes. “Whether you know about the history of art or not, it’s something you can connect with.” This accessibility is a hallmark of his practice, making his art both profound and meaningfully approachable.
was quick to emphasize, “Most people think artists are just kind of there being creative. But I’m running a business with a team of ten people, handling contracts, fundraising, and logistics.” Stressing the need for artists to develop business acumen or surround themselves with people who complement their skills, he added, “As an artist, you have to make the work, but you also have to be ready to talk about your work and seize opportunities that benefit the business, while preserving the integrity of the art. Striking the right balance requires intentionality, but it is possible.,” he advises. “And find your people. Finding mentors and people you work well with is very important.”
The Business of Art
This pragmatic approach extends to long-term planning. Villareal speaks candidly about the need for strategic thinking in a rapidly changing art world. “Disruption is happening everywhere—from generative art to immersive experiences,” he observes. For Villareal, staying nimble and adaptive is as essential as the creative process itself.
While Villareal and his work exudes creativity, he’s also achieved some success in navigating the oftenperplexing business side of the art world. When asked what lessons he would share with aspiring artists, he
Far from a traditional artist’s studio, Villareal and his team’s work at the intersection of art and technology presents unique challenges and opportunities. The studio operates like a hybrid lab, where engineers, designers,
and artists collaborate on projects that often take years to realize. “Patience is crucial,” he says. “Some projects span a decade from concept to completion.” This meticulous process ensures that each piece harmonizes with its environment, whether a bridge, a museum, or a public plaza.
Light and Wonder Villareal’s work captivates audiences worldwide. From large-scale public installations to intimate academic collaborations, his art invites viewers to pause, reflect, and engage. “I think of art as a way to distill something into an object, then trying to transmit that to someone else. There’s also a lot of visual material in my pieces. Many are non-repeating works. So you can look at them again and again and not see the same progression of sequences twice. It’s different from painting or sculpture, in that I’m able to deeply engage with time. Light and code have the power to elicit awe in this way,” he says. As Villareal looks to the future, he remains committed to pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers of abstraction. Whether through his current projects or mentoring the next generation of artists, his journey— rooted in transitions, connections, and the interplay of light and shadow— offers a bright path forward. His work will continue transforming spaces and the way people experience art, creating moments of light and wonder that linger long after the code changes and the lights have dimmed. ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025
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Back to the Classroom Dean of Academics Nick Micheletti ’04 experiences a day in the life of three students.
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P
erhaps I might have been forgiven for thinking, after more than a decade and a half of teaching and at least some gains in maturity and work ethic, that I would, at this point, be a dominant high school student if I once again found myself on that side of the classroom. But, the first thing I did after arranging my attendance at a week or so of classes was brazenly declare to Kate Smith, the AP English teacher that I would join her students in their recitation of the Prologue of Chaucer’s “Canterbury Tales” in the original Middle English. Hubris was not a topic covered in any of the later classes I attended, but I would have had poignant recent experience with that particular human failing. I spent the entire morning with the jitters, and then I found myself sprinting to class after a meeting ran late. Even then, I thought I could pull it off since I had only promised to do the first half of the eighteen lines of verse. After all, how good are teenagers at recitations anyway? They usually zoom through poetry like they’re chanting in binary, right? Wrong. By the time the first girl melodically intoned that “the droghte of March hath perced to the roote,” I knew that I was in for a humbling experience. Each and every student was nearly word-perfect, and I could feel the images take shape as they thoroughly engaged with the language. I asked Ms. Smith, if they had done some kind of intensive Middle English training that I hadn’t heard about. But no, apparently, this was a solo project, and she hadn’t even prepped them much, though she clearly had inspired them to dig into the project. After my third re-start, I made it through my two quatrains, and the students offered me some pity applause. If you can believe it, that was only the first twenty minutes of AP Literature, and we then spent an hour engaging in discussion on the first six chapters of “The Age of Innocence.” That was just the first class of what would be three full days of classes with three separate students. I visit classrooms all the time, but it’s not too common to stay for an entire period nor to do so with the mindset of a student. But I wanted to do this, so I reached out to three students, one each from the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Form, to see if they would mind if I tagged along for a day
of classes. I teach Latin 1 every year and spend enough time with the Third Form! Alli Miller was my Sixth-Form companion, who herself offered flawless Chaucer. Alli is a former Latin 1 all-star who is an all-around academic powerhouse. She also offers crucial responsibility to the school as a member of the Honors Committee. At the end of my day with her, I also saw her win an intense five-set squash battle as our #2 in the ladder. I spent a different day with Fifth-Form student Becca Osei-Assibey, whom I was not fortunate enough to teach Latin, but she is the top high jumper on our track team, an event I coach. She took second place at our league championship last year. Becca is also a tremendous student who maintains a calm demeanor alongside full dedication and enthusiasm. Finally, I spent another day of classes with Daniel Kim, which wasn’t so out of the ordinary for us since he is currently a student in my Latin 2H class. He and I also reside in St. Leonard’s, and we had just finished up a whole season of
Becca Osei-Assibey ’27
Alli Miller ’25
Daniel Kim ’26
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afternoons together on the cross country team. It goes without saying that I hold distance-running students of classical languages in particularly high regard. Each student is also a member of one of three courses new to our curriculum this year. Alli takes 20th Century Humanities, Becca is in Honors American Literature and Daniel is building stuff in Fundamentals of Engineering. As a proud graduate of the Abbey, my general sentiments are that our curriculum is best left unchanged from year to year. However, I firmly maintain that tradition and progress are not mutually exclusive, and furthermore, one of my great teaching mentors adhered to the 10% rule, which states that you should change exactly 10% of your teaching every year. As far as our course list is concerned, I am confident that we stay close to the traditional curriculum that has inspired and educated thousands of students while also being open to new subjects.
On my first day of classes, I attended 20th Century Humanities with Alli. Longtime humanities teacher and Chair Emeritus Kale Zelden has originated this Sixth-Form course as a “sequel” to our wonderful Fourth Form program (please see the previous Bulletin for an informative interview with current Humanities Chair Dr. Katie Zins ’04). Not only is it a sequel to the FourthForm experience, but the title properly indicates that the texts pick up historically where the first course leaves off. In the class I visited, the ten students had just begun the third novel in a C.S. Lewis trilogy. I was able to read the assigned pages ahead of time, and I was ready to dive in with my new classmates. It was immediately apparent that Mr. Zelden had captured the in-depth and collegial nature of the program students had previously experienced. I felt like I knew the text at the beginning of the class, but engaging in conversation with Mr. Zelden and his students drew my attention to things I had not observed, reversed some of my initial readings, and otherwise strengthened my understanding of the book. The students weaved comfortably between tight analysis of the text and the cultural reflections inspired by the story’s characters and plot. The beauty of seminar discussion is that it is simultaneously natural and easy while also being artfully refined; it’s better than a chat over coffee, but it nevertheless captures the genuine nature of participants’ true sentiments. The following day, I joined Becca for American Literature Honors, taught by Chair of the English Department, Mike St. Thomas. While not strictly an entirely new course, it might surprise some to know that we had not previously offered an honors course for our third year of English. There is no definite answer regarding how many levels to provide for a particular subject, but we have long offered at least two levels for math and science courses. Thus, it felt right to do the same for English. Of course, the primary motive for adding such an honors course would be to allow our Alli Miller ’25 listens to a classmate during 20th Century Humanities with Kale Zelden.
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students who love reading and writing to push each other to new depths of appreciation and analysis. I was not disappointed. We had read a short story, “To Everything There is Season”, about a man reflecting on a particularly momentous Christmas season from his childhood. I highly recommend this story, but I should warn that it is very moving, and it slowly wraps you up in a devastating nostalgia, and you don’t necessarily want to get caught off guard by devastating nostalgia. This class began with a quick reading quiz – I’m still pretty steamed with myself for not getting a perfect score, but these English teachers ask for details that fly out of your head the moment the quiz starts! After the quiz, we spent the class picking apart every image and every theme, and pretty much every word was examined. Each literature teacher I visited had their own way of opening up a story for their students. In Mr. Zelden’s class, the discussion started broadly and slowly moved inward, but in Mr. St. Thomas’s class, it was the opposite. After some roundtable discussions about specific themes and imagery, we even broke up into small groups. Becca, another student and I went even deeper into the details of the text. By the end of our class discussion, the story felt even richer and more whole than before. The class itself was so full that after an extensive conversation on the story, Mr. St. Thomas led us in a writing exercise. At this point, I have referenced three classes, and they were all of a literary nature. I fear that the STEM-oriented alums might be worried that there’s a problematic bias going on here. Not at all. I also took AP Biology with Alli, Precalculus with Becca, and two science courses with Daniel. While I intend to focus on the new course, Fundamentals of Engineering, I had a blast with Daniel making chalk in Chemistry Honors taught by Susan McCarthy. For the record, the lab’s point was not to make chalk but rather to work on precise measurements. Daniel, his partner and I actually messed up by combining dry materials when we were very clearly instructed to create two separate solutions before doing so! Daniel had to go back and redo some elements of the lab, but skipping that step meant that we were undoubtedly the
Measuring for the bridge competition in Fundamentals of Engineering.
fastest chalk-makers. It was a Pyrrhic victory for sure, but I’ll take it as a win. In Fundamentals of Engineering, the students were nearing the end of a bridge-building contest. This class was designed to be a hands-on introduction to the different branches of engineering, and it was certainly on display in the Student Project Lab. Teacher David Wilson was simultaneously handsoff (so that the students would be hands-on), while also offering near-constant advice and instruction to individual students as they tried to strengthen their 25-gram bridges. Apparently, the winning bridge would likely withstand up to 50 pounds, but that seemed impossible at first glance of these small constructions. Yet, I saw numerous designs, and with all the configurations of arches and trusses, I started to believe just how sturdy they could be. Each new course was engaging, and I was happy that we had added them to our curriculum. However, the other courses I attended were also rather magnificent. Chair of the Science Department, Dr. Stephen Zins, blew my mind several times with a brief review of evolution and natural
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 39
selection for the AP Biology students as they embarked on a project on Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium. I was more than happy to roll up my sleeves and do some good old math in Precalculus with Dr. Bryndol Sones. That class was simply non-stop exponents and logarithmic functions, and my head was spinning by the end of it. But it’s very satisfying to work with numbers, and I wish I had more time for it in my adult life. Precalculus was immediately followed by Theology with Abbot Michael, which was also a whirlwind. Despite Abbot Michael’s rather slow cadence of speech, in fifty minutes, he somehow navigated all of the following: Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Freud, Jung, Sartre and Nietzsche, and then he took us all the way back to the Garden of Eden with a very fascinating linguistic angle on the original text. Finally, on the day that I followed Daniel to his classes, my Latin 2H class met. So, to maintain the spirit of the exercise, we switched places. Daniel gave a perfectly clear lecture on the comparison of adjectives, and we all aced the quiz. In my three days of classes, I acted as a time traveler. Despite celebrating my twentieth reunion from the Abbey this past
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
fall, my memories of my time here as a student are still quite vivid. I was unsurprised and quite pleased to confirm that the experiences I recall match what continues to happen here daily. The feeling of the classes was as I remembered — the fullness and engagement, the razor’s edge perfect balance of active instruction from the teachers measured equally with student-led discussion and active inquiry. So much was fresh as well. The three classes that debuted this year are by no means the only ones added in the last twenty years. Furthermore, the classes seemed even more active than how I remember them, though perhaps that’s just an indictment of my own intellectual investment as a teenager. If, after reading this article, you feel it comes off as fluffy, I can assure you that the curriculum and classroom experience are indeed vibrant and meaningful at the Abbey. I challenge (and cordially invite) any graduate to come for a class or two. If you write to me ahead of time, I’ll even get you some homework so that you can enjoy the full experience. Nick Micheletti ’04 Assistant Head of School and Dean of Academics
On November 8, 2024, the Portsmouth Institute hosted a screening of the new documentary, “Things Hidden: The Life and Legacy of René Girard.”
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 41
The film is an in-depth and personal portrait of Girard, the French-American Catholic philosopher hailed as “the Darwin of the Human Sciences” for the impact his thought had across a wide range of academic disciplines such as philosophy, theology, literary theory, sociology, psychology, anthropology and more. His ideas have become so consequential to our understanding of the human condition that Bishop Robert Barron has gone on to predict Girard will one day be recognized as a Doctor of the Church. René Girard (1923-2015) was a polymathic thinker more reminiscent of a Leonardo Da Vinci or Thomas Jefferson than any of his specialist contemporaries. He is best known for developing the concept of ‘mimetic desire’, the idea that there is an innate tendency for human beings to desire objects (whether physical or metaphysical) because we observe others desire them first. Upon this mimetic theory of human desire, Girard soon discovered — whether in a 19th-century novel, a Shakespeare tragedy, religious myth or international politics — that as more and more people come to imitate each other in their desire, struggle over the desired objects, which are deemed valuable precisely because others desire them, would inevitably lead Bishop Robert Barron
to conflict and violence among imitators. From time immemorial, Girard argues, societies have developed a distinctive mechanism to resolve such internal conflict and quell the crisis of violence brought on by our mimetic desire: scapegoating. By collectively casting blame, expulsion, or violence upon a single victim, groups once embroiled in the cycle of mimetic conflict are able to again reestablish social harmony. In fact, the scapegoating mechanism is observed to be so ubiquitous, Girard posits that all religions and cultures originate in this overcoming of social disintegration through the sacrificial violence inflicted upon the victimized scapegoat. However, Girard’s most important theoretical contribution is that he saw the Christianity of the Gospels as unlike any other religion, for it reveals the things hidden in the scapegoating process. Whereas all other archaic religious myth is told from the side of the persecutors, who see the violence they inflict on the scapegoat as justified, according to the
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Gospels, the victim of mob persecution, Jesus Christ, is innocent. The Gospels reveal the truth of the scapegoating mechanism, a truth that the persecutors do not see. Jesus accepts his crucifixion in order to put an end to the cycle of collective violence, to put an end to establishing the false bonds of unity through exclusion. “Things Hidden” brilliantly weaves together the journey of Girard’s intellectual
A photo taken on set during the filming of “Things Hidden”
discovery with his life’s journey, which ultimately led him back to the Church. It is a powerful testimony to the intellectual life and to the life of faith and how the two can work in harmony. Portsmouth Abbey students and faculty not only enjoyed the documentary film and learning more about René Girard, but they also got the chance following the screening to discuss the film and Girard’s ideas with a panel of experts, including the film’s director Sam Sorich (Glass Darkly Films), philosophy professor and author of the book, “Philosophy’s Violent Sacred: Heidegger and Nietzsche through Mimetic Theory,” Dr. Duane Armitage of the University of Scranton, as well as Portsmouth Abbey School faculty members Daniel Caplin, who teaches selections of Girard’s work to his Fourth-Form humanities classes and Gersende Chanfrau of the Modern Languages Department, whose father, the renowned
(background) “The scapegoat” as portrayed in the documentary “Things Hidden: The Life and Legacy of René Girard.”
psychiatrist, Guy Lefort, co-authored with Girard the book, “Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World.” The Portsmouth Institute looks forward to hosting more successful events like the screening of “Things Hidden,” where Portsmouth Abbey students can discover more of the rich legacy of the Catholic intellectual tradition and feel more deeply the connection between the life of the mind and the life of faith. Dr. Darryl M. De Marzio P ’26 Executive Director, Portsmouth Institute
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ATHLETICS A Season for Soccer and the EIL Playoffs From weather to wins, the fall 2024 soccer season was one
The boys varsity team won the Eastern Independent League
for the record books this academic year. For the first time
(EIL) Championship with an undefeated EIL record of 8-0-2.
since 2008, the girls team competed in the New England
Ranked third in New England during the regular season, the
Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) tournament,
Ravens outscored their league opponents 33-6 after securing
and the boys were invited back for the first time since 2016.
the league championship. They entered the EIL Tournament,
The brackets were highly competitive, with well-known
determined and ready for action, defeating the Wheeler
athletic programs represented. On the girls varsity soccer
School and Concord Academy to claim their second EIL title
pitch, the Ravens were defeated by the Pomfret Griffins, who
this year. At NEPSAC, they fell to Vermont Academy in the
claimed the championship for the second year.
championships for their division. “I’m incredibly proud of this
1
Photos: 1 2024 Boys Varsity Soccer Team 2 Captains John Paul (JP) Devaney, Tomas Aubut-Lavin, Gabe Devaney and Head Coach Sebastian Gonzalez present the championship trophy to Head of School Matt Walter. 3 EIL All League player Ella Liuzza warms up with drills before a game.
2
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
team’s unwavering dedication and hard work. Their effort and
athletes from Portsmouth Abbey School to make the Eastern
commitment to one another have made us undefeated EIL
Independent League (EIL) playoffs in quite some time.
champions, EIL tournament champions and finalists in the
“I am immensely proud of all Portsmouth Abbey School student-
New England tournament, showing what true teamwork and resilience can achieve,” said Sebastian Gonzalez, head coach of the program. “I cannot wait to see what the future holds.”
athletes for how hard they work and stay true to the idea of sportsmanship,” said Director of Athletics Chris Milmoe. “To have experienced the highest levels of competition in the post-season
In addition to soccer, Portsmouth Abbey School was also
and given it their all is something to be celebrated. I hope these
represented at NEPSAC by the girls’ volleyball team for a third
teams know and appreciate how much they have inspired our
time. The team, along with the Ravens field hockey and cross
community and the student-athletes who will compete in the
country teams, was part of the largest contingent of student-
upcoming seasons and next year.”
4
5
6
8
7
Photos: 4 Head Girl Lila Bragan’25 serves during a home game. 5 Captain-elect Elle Martin ’26 prepares to return the ball. 6 T he varsity volleyball team has qualified for the NEPSAC tournament for the past three years. 7 T he boys varsity golf team finished second in the EIL golf championship. 8 (l-r) Luke Harkins ’26, Charlie Winston ’28 and Harrison Gerrior ’28 all won their individual golf flights.
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 45
ATHLETICS 1
2
Fall 2024 Sports Awards Boys Cross Country Coaches Award: Joey Levreault ’26 MIP: Adelino Vellis ’28 Captains-Elect: Joey Levreault ’26, Billy Jin ’26 Overall Record: 6-3 EIL Record: 5-3 EIL All League: Joey Levreault ’26, Patrick Welch ’28 EIL Honorable Mention: Avery Howell ’28, Max Maskara ’28 3rd Place in EIL League Championship Meet 10thPlace in NEPSTA Championship Meet All NEPSAC Honorable Mention: Joey Levreault’26 and Avery Howell ’28
Girls Cross Country
3
4
Coaches Award: Brooke Marston ’27 MIP: Daisy Jin ’27 Captain-Elect: Tilly Holling ’26 Overall Record: 5-7 EIL Record: 5-5 EIL All League: Brooke Marston ’27 EIL All League HM: Daisy Jin ’27 NEPSTA All League: Brooke Marston ’27 8th Place in EIL League Championship Meet 16th Place in the NEPSTA Championship Meet
Field Hockey
5
Photos: 1 Captain-elect Joey Levreault ’26 also earned EIL All League in cross country. 2 Avery Howell ’28 earned EIL Honorable Mention and was the first to cross the finish line in the Head of School Run. 3 L ayla Grilli ’25 is an All-Scholastic and EIL All League player. 4 Captain-elect Mabel Harlan ’27 also earned EIL Honorable Mention. 5 H ogan Football Trophy recipient Logan McManus ’25.
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
Gontarz Girls Field Hockey Trophy: Layla Grilli ’25 and Kate Verderber ’25 MIP: Anna Hutton ’27 Captains-Elect: Mabel Harlan ’27 and Megan O’Connor ’26 Overall Record: 11-8-1 EIL Record: 7-4 4th place in EIL EIL All League: Layla Grilli ’25, Kate Verderber ’25, and Anna Hutton ’27 EIL All League Honorable Mention: Jayden Elias ’26 and Mabel Harlan ’27 All NEPSAC: Kate Verderber ’25 All NEPSAC Honorable Mention: Layla Grilli ’25
Football John M Hogan Football Trophy: Logan McManus ’25 Coen MIP Award: Wolfe Waters ’28 Captains-Elect: Zach Chatterton ’26, Jack Hamilton ’26, Brycen Wagner-Pont ’26 Evergreen Record 0-8 All NEPSAC: Logan McManus ’25 All NEPSAC Honorable Mention: Kian Murphy ’25
Boys Varsity Soccer
Boys Golf
Williams Franklin Sands Memorial Soccer Trophy: JP Devaney ’25 Captains-Elect: Liam Caldwell ’26 and Keynan Musingo ’26 Overall Record: 16-3-5 EIL Record: 8-0-2 Won EIL Championship, EIL Tournament, and was the NEPSAC Runner Up. Placed 2nd in NEPSAC EIL All League: Gabe Devaney ’25, JP Devaney ’25, Luca Mestrandrea ’25 and Keynan Musingo’26 EIL Honorable Mention: Luca Donadio’26 and Drake Almeida ’26 All NEPSAC: JP Devaney ’25, Gabe Devaney ’25 and Luca Mestrandrea ’25 All NEPSAC Honorable Mention: Keynan Musingo ’26 and Luca Donadio’26
Coaches Award: PJ Forbes ’25 MIP: Luke Harkins ’26 Captain-Elect: Jay Keenan ’26 Overall Record: 12-3 EIL Record: 9-3
Girls Varsity Soccer Hannaford Girls Soccer Trophy: Aralyn Bradshaw ’25 MIP: Dylan Galbreth ’25 Captains-Elect: Jessy Rivera ’26, Jenny Rivera ’26, and Tessa Reid ’26 EIL Record 7-5-1 EIL All League: Ella Liuzza ’25, Jenny Rivera ’26 EIL Honorable Mention: Tessa Reid ’26 Class-C Record 7-3 Qualified for New England Tournament NEPSAC Jr All-Stars: Jessy Rivera ’26, Jenny Rivera ’26, and Tessa Reid ’26 All NEPSAC: Ella Liuzza ’25 and Aralyn Bradshaw ’25 All NEPSAC Honorable Mention: Dylan Galbreth ’25 and Jessy Rivera ’26
6
Volleyball Coaches Award: Gwen Canuel ’25 MIP: Charlotte Spencer ’26 Captains-Elect: Elle Martin ’26 and Charlotte Spencer ’26 Overall Record 11-10 Qualified for NEPSAC EIL Record 7-4 EIL All League Elle Martin ’26 EIL All League Honorable Mention: Gwen Canuel ’25 All-NEPSAC: Elle Martin ’25 All-NEPSAC Honorable Mention: Cammie Cotten ’25
Junior Varsity Awards The Portsmouth Abbey JV Award is given to the athlete who best demonstrates the spirit of Abbey Athletics. The award recognizes hard work, individual improvement, sportsmanship and a willingness to do what is best for the team. Boys JV Cross Country: Jack Zelden ’28 Girls JV Cross Country: Rebeca Sada ’27 JV Field Hockey: Brigid Dowd ’26 JV Football: Michael Biehn ’27 Boys JVA Soccer: CJ Mitchell-Chenoweth ’28 Boys JVB Soccer: Karl Frankovich ’28 Girls JV Soccer: Abby FitzGerald ’27 JV Volleyball: Georgia Johnson ’26
7 Photos: 6 Coen Award recipient number 63, Wolfe Waters ’28, practices at sunset with his teammates. 7 Gabe Devaney was named to the Boston Globe and Boston Herald All-Scholastic Teams for boys varsity soccer. Devaney, a Sixth-Form defender for the Ravens, and his classmates, including his brother JP Devaney and Luca Mestrandrea, earned All-EIL and All-NEPSAC honors.
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ATHLETICS (l-r) Sienna Chin Gerding, Mitch Canuel, Gabe Devaney, PJ Forbes, Summer Magriby, Gwen Canuel, Sawyer Leonard
Winter Signing Day The Department of Athletics hosted its Winter Signing Day in February. The following Ravens and their coaches, families and friends celebrated the next step in their athletic journey. More athletes will celebrate their commitments at an upcoming event in the spring. Gwen Canuel
Gordon College Softball
Mitch Canuel
Assumption College Baseball
Gabe Devaney
Catholic University Track and Field
Sawyer Leonard
UMass Boston Lacrosse
PJ Forbes
Roger Williams Golf
Summer Magriby
Massachusetts Maritime Academy Volleyball
Jillian Muglia
Carlton College Track and Field
Sienna Chin Gerding
St. John Fisher Ice Hockey
Sawyer Leonard ’25 with lacrosse coaches Sam Funnell and Al Brown.
Matthew Burgner ’25 Reaches 100 Games as a Raven Sixth-Form student Matthew Burgner, son of Craig and Kathleen Burgner of Redondo Beach, California, played in his 100th boys varsity hockey game in January. An incredible achievement for a high school athlete, Burgner is also believed to be the first Raven to achieve this milestone for a single sport at Portsmouth Abbey. When reacting to the occasion, the left-winger was ever optimistic and enthusiastic about his playing time thus far. “This is unreal. The past 100 games have been nothing shy of a wild journey— and the crazy thing is, we’re still going; it’s not over yet.”
Matthew Burgner ’25
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
New Football Coach Has Roots in Rhode Island Stanley Dunbar has been named
13-0 record and a Division 1 State Championship during his
head coach of Portsmouth
senior season. He earned First Team All-State honors from the
Abbey School Varsity Football.
Providence Journal and was named Rhode Island Gridiron Player
He is an assistant director of
and Back of the Year by the Providence Gridiron Club.
admissions at Suffield Academy
He continued playing at Dean College, where he was an
and was the Tigers’ defensive
All-Conference defensive back who helped the Bulldogs win
coordinator during previous
back-to-back conference championships. He then earned a
seasons.
scholarship to the University of Rhode Island, where he was a
“When we began the search for our next football head coach, we
two-year starter at cornerback. Coach Stanley Dunbar
were inundated with applications from across the country. Coach Dunbar’s experience and deep ties to Rhode Island made him stand out. Being a man of faith who desires to use football to help young men grow in knowledge and grace, Coach Dunbar will usher in the next era of Portsmouth Abbey football. We are thrilled to have him join our community,” said Director of Athletics Chris Milmoe. A Rhode Island native, Dunbar attended St. Raphael Academy
Dunbar is the founder and director of Breakthrough Elite Football, New England’s largest amateur football organization. In the offseason, Breakthrough Elite Football hosts camps, clinics, leagues, and showcases for football players. His coaching journey began at Portsmouth High School and includes positions at American International College, Dean College, Coventry High School, Westerly High School, and Suffield Academy.
in Pawtucket. As a quarterback, he led the Saints to a perfect
McLarney to Receive Lifetime Service to Wrestling Award and is Named EIL Coach of the Year Not only was he recently named EIL Coach of the year, but
Following a 25-year hiatus,
longtime wrestling coach Mike McLarney will receive the
Portsmouth Abbey School
Lifetime Service to Wrestling Award from the Massachusetts
reinstated its wrestling program
chapter of the Wrestling Hall of Fame in April and will enter the
in 2012. McLarney was first
Hall of Fame as a recipient of this honor. The award recognizes
hired as an assistant coach and
20 years or more of dedicated service to developing leadership
took charge of the program in
and citizenship in youth through wrestling.
2014. That year, he was also
Throughout his extensive career, McLarney has supported the
elected to the Massachusetts
wrestling community, contributing statewide, regionally, and
Coach Mike McLarney
Interscholastic Wrestling
nationally as a competitor, coach, referee, and leader.
Officials Association Executive Board.
Introduced to the sport in 1967, McLarney joined the defending
McLarney has been the commissioner and president of the
Massachusetts state and New England champion wrestling team at Chelmsford High School in 1969. He was the New England champion his senior year. He later competed for
Eastern Independent Wrestling League since 2017. In 2021, he was named Massachusetts USA Wrestling’s director of officials, and in 2024, he was appointed Rhode Island USA Wrestling’s
Massachusetts Maritime Academy, becoming the New England
state vice chairperson.
champion again during his senior year.
“Mike is a legend in New England wrestling circles. He has been
While serving as a United States Merchant Marine Engineer,
leading the Portsmouth Abbey wrestling program since 2014
McLarney began coaching as a volunteer at the University of Lowell. In 1979, he returned to his high school alma mater to coach and started his career as an official, which has continued without interruption for 46 years.
and has helped hundreds of Portsmouth Abbey students learn the sport and become better young men and women,” said Director of Athletics Chris Milmoe. “ We are honored that our coach is headed to the Hall of Fame.”
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 49
ATHLETICS Games Well-Played New Content Series Shares Stories and Connections to Abbey Athletics A tradition of excellence thrives at Portsmouth beyond the playing fields and courts. The School hopes to honor that tradition by sharing memories or anecdotes in a new content series titled “Games Well-Played.” Whether in print Portsmouth Hockey Team, 1973–1974
publications or via digital content, the idea is to connect
with those who want to share their experience as a student-athlete or simply a long-time Raven fan. It may be the recollection of a championship game, a lesson learned from a coach, or notes about the Abbey’s connections to the world of athletics today. We have much to be proud of and welcome the opportunity to pass on stories of grace, gratitude, and gumption displayed at the Abbey across generations. Jim Kenney ’75 recently sent a photograph and note to the School offering the thoughts below. He then had the pleasure of meeting via Zoom with Zach Cappelli, head coach of boys varsity ice hockey, and team captains Logan McManus ’25 and Luca Mestrandrea ’25. witnessed the start of a significant transition and transformation to the Athletic Department during my two years at the “ Ischool from 1973 to 1975. That is due in many ways to John McCauley coming to the school as a faculty member, coach, and, shortly thereafter, athletic director. It is evident that the growth of the Athletic Department continues. While at Portsmouth, I was a varsity football, hockey, and baseball team member. During my Sixth-Form year, I was the captain and M.V.P. of the hockey and baseball teams. I was also named to the Student Athletic Board in 1975. These athletic endeavors continued at Wesleyan University, where I was a member of the varsity hockey team and an assistant captain during my senior year. The captain and I worked closely with our coach to support the development and initial creation of the women’s varsity hockey team. After graduation, I returned to Rhode Island and served as the Abbey’s assistant coach for varsity hockey and head coach of the middler team for the 1979-1980 year. Coming to Portsmouth for my Fifth- and Sixth-Form years was life-changing. The combination of the athletic and overall Portsmouth experiences has proven invaluable. Being a part of a team, coaching, mentoring, perseverance in overcoming adversity, a willingness to accept challenges and so much more have been an everyday part of my professional career as a clinician, program administrator, consultant, mountain rescue team member and member of various advocacy boards and the Washington State Governor’s Committee on Disabilities and Employment Issues. The competitive component of my life continues. Beyond my work with the Mount Rainier Mountain Rescue Team, I have been fortunate to have climbed in the Swiss and Bavarian Alps, K2 in Pakistan, multiple climbs in the Alaskan Range (Denali, Mt. Foraker, Mount Hunter), and most of the U.S. and British Columbia Canada. Athletics was an integral component of the student life experience.
”
Abbey - NFL Connections Two-time Super Bowl champion and former New
of former Abbey wrestling coach Tim Coen and
England Patriots linebacker Tully Banta-Cain was a
the grandson of the late Phil Coen, who coached
guest speaker during the School’s January meeting
at Portsmouth from 1969 to 1973. Members of
for coaches. Drawing from his exceptional career
the Abbey football team from the classes of
in the NFL and his journey as a standout player for
1970-1973 established the “Coen Cup” award,
the University of California, Berkeley, Banta-Cain
given annually to the football team’s most
shared insights on leadership, motivation, and the
improved player. Phil Coen played football
transformative power of coaching.
at Boston College with John McCauley, who
Native Rhode Islander Liam Coen was recently named
followed him as coach at the Abbey from 1974 until the late 1980s
head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Coen is the son Tully Banta-Cain 50
PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 51
As the leaves begin to change color and the air turns crisp, our campus becomes even more dynamic with the vibrant energy of Reunion Weekend. The importance of these gatherings cannot be overstated – they remind us of the strength of our Raven community and the lasting impact of shared education. Reunion Weekend is an incredible opportunity to reconnect with old friends and forge new bonds with fellow alumni. More than 200 alumni were welcomed home to Portsmouth from September 27 to 29, 2024, for a gathering filled with laughter and nostalgia. Classes ending in 4 and 9 celebrated together, and special acknowledgment was given to the Class of 1974 and the Class of 1999 for their milestone 50th and 25th anniversaries, respectively. As our alumni strolled through our beautiful campus, many were struck by the enhancements that have taken place since their graduation. Among them is the newly constructed Student Center, a hub of activity and innovation that stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering a well-rounded learning environment for students. Food trucks provided the perfect casual setting to kick off the weekend with a Welcome Back Party and a chance to reminisce and rekindle friendships. Other highlights from the weekend included a traditional lobster clambake, athletic competitions, an impressive panel with current students, an insightful and informative conversation with Head of School Matt Walter P’18 ’20 and Board of Directors Chair Chris Abbate ’88, P’20 ’23, a requiem Mass and Vespers, class photos and a festive Dinner Dance. The weekend culminated with Mass in the Church of St. Gregory the Great, followed by the popular Jazz Brunch featuring talented faculty and students. Their performances created an atmosphere filled with warmth and camaraderie. We invite you to relive the memories through the candid photos captured throughout the weekend and the class photos taken during the Dinner Dance. Scan the QR code to view the entire photo album or visit www.abbeycommunications.smugmug.com. Our alumni network continues to grow stronger, renewing our excitement for the future. We have enjoyed seeing many of you at our regional or international receptions. Graduating classes ending in 0s and 5s, and members of the Diman Club, please mark your calendar for September 19-21, 2025.
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
3 Cheers from
Dave Mazzella ’84, Guy Farrington ’84, Dave FitzSimons ’84, and Dave Cummings ’84.
1 Timeless style meets
school spirit – Peter Kennedy ’64 P’07 ’08 ’15 and wife Carroll always shine bright.
3 The late Dom Paschal Scotti, O.S.B. sharing in the joy
of 50 years of friendship. 4 Members of the Class of 2014 reunite under the Reunion tent.
1 The new
Student Center is the perfect backdrop for this group photo of our talented Student Panel members. 2 Members of the Class of 1979 sharing and creating new
memories at the Welcome Back Party.
3B andmates
Nick Moran ’81, Jim Coyle ’79, and Joe Tucker ’79 take a break, but the camaraderie from classmates of 1979 never stops.
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 53
2 Felipe Vicini ’79 and daughter Lisa Vicini ’19 share the same
reunion cycle and moment with wife and mom, Eliza Vicini. 1 Ron Lagman ‘99 and family cracking open memories and
lobster – family, fun and feasting at its finest.
2 Class of 2019 members Ginny Hagerty, Francesca Mullaly
and Eve Loftus, take a break from the dance floor at the Saturday evening Dinner Dance. 2 50th reunion classmates Tom Keeley, Brian Dowling and Mike Dasovich
enjoy being back together again.
2 Members of the Class of 1999 gather to share a special moment while
celebrating their 25th reunion. 54
PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
2 Honoring our legacy – Requiem Mass for our beloved
deceased alumni from the major reunion classes with Abbot Michael.
DIMAN CLUB
(L to R) Raul de Brigard ’59, Peter Kennedy ’64
CLASS OF 1974 front row (L to R) James Tietje, Thomas Keeley, Brian Dowling, Anthony Susen, Gregg Dietrich,
Daniel Sturrup, Paul Swann back row (L to R) William Buonanno, Donald Makson, Michael Dasovich, Paul Speer,
John Montalbano, Robert Andre, Robert Ryan, Joseph Robinson, Scott Miller, Philip English, Douglas Grant, Joseph Sullivan, Anthony Caputi
CLASS OF 1979
(L to R) Christopher Sullivan, James Coyle, Peter Mogayzel, Joseph Tucker, Felipe Vicini, Stephen Jaegle
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 55
CLASS OF 1984 front row (L to R)
Charles Matthews, David Cummings, Thomas Sexton, Casey Carter back row (L to R) Andrew Walsh,
David FitzSimons, Edgar Farrington, David Mazzella, Charles Lattanzio, Brian Hetherington, Patrick Neligan
CLASS OF 1989 front row (L to R)
Sean Wilson, Thomas Keenan, David Doyle, Keith Minihane, John Coleman back row (L to R) William Hannaford,
John Doyle, James Koelzer, Michael du Vigneaud, Christopher Meyer, Anthony Del Vicario
CLASS OF 1994 front row (L to R)
Neale Hegarty, Donald Marcogliese, Jeremy Kane, Christopher Snell, Joel Ziggy Aruta, Robert O’Reilly, Matthew Mead back row (L to R) Patrick Kelly,
Brendan Kearney, John Relihan, Melissa Alfred-Wilson, Eero Pikat, William Toth, Nicolas Lombardi
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
CLASS OF 1999 front row (L to R)
Ronald Lagman, Amara Mulder, Francesca Tauber, Justine Button, Brian Kearney back row (L to R) Timothy Conrad,
Greg Williams, Jonathan Marks, Rebecca LaBrode, Sean O’Higgins, Gregory Mataronas
CLASS OF 2004 front row (L to R)
Jeffrey Willis, Kelley McShane ’05, Whitney Connell, Julia Reinalda, Nicholas Micheletti back row (L to R) Katie Zins,
Paul Petronello, Christian Burnett, Michael Queno, Nicholas Trimboli, Jason Bazarsky, Lesly Wood
CLASS OF 2009
Michael Holden
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 57
CLASS OF 2014
(L to R) Matthew Fonts, Brian Fredericks, Nicole Kerno, Elizabeth Magauran, Danielle Banky, Ifunanya Onyiuke, Susana Mariño-Johnson, Connor Rodericks, Arianna Lowney, Keith Edwards, Malik Bernadeau, Christopher Baughan
CLASS OF 2019 front row (L to R) Eve Loftus, Lisa Vicini, Rory O’Neill, Virginia Hagerty, Alexa Kelleher, Kathleen Ritchie,
Francesca Mullaly, Lilias Madden, Tatum Bach-Sorensen back row (L to R) Thomas Murphy, Antony Ramirez, Jonas Echeandia, Harry Skakel, Jonathan Susilo, Tiger Farah,
Christopher Franco, Nicolas Pedrero Setzer, Tony Hooks, Daniel Teravainen
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
Abbot’s Reception This past December, the New York Yacht Club once again provided an enchanting backdrop for the annual Abbot’s Reception, where alumni, parents and friends gathered to kick off the Christmas season together. The iconic Model Room was decorated with twinkling lights and mirrored the joyful spirit of all in attendance. Those who gathered were reminded of the importance of community during this special time of year. Remarks commenced with a warm welcome from co-host Daphne Robbins ’04, who set the tone by expressing gratitude for the strong bonds that unite us as a school. She introduced The Right Reverend Abbot Michael Brunner, O.S.B., who delivered an update on the monastery and shared a Christmas blessing reminding us of the true essence of the holiday. 1
The Right Reverend Abbot Michael Brunner, O.S.B. concludes his remarks with a Christmas blessing ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 59
Head of School Matthew Walter P’18 ’20 followed, highlighting recent School achievements and improvements. It was uplifting to hear about the strides made in academic programs, facilities and community engagement that continue to enrich the educational experience for our students. Remarks concluded with a delightful surprise — a fun Christmas video featuring students and faculty singing “Sleigh Ride.” The infectious joy and enthusiasm radiating from the screen served as a reminder of the vibrant spirit that defines our campus. Laughter and applause filled the room as everyone joined in the festive cheer while celebrating the incredible individuals who make our School such a special place. As we look to 2025, we carry the spirit of togetherness and joy into our daily lives, continuing to support one another as we strive for excellence in all that we do. We extend a sincere thank you to our hosts, the record-breaking number of 90 patrons and the remarkable turnout of more than 200 alumni, parents and friends.
Matt Cunningham ’85, John McCormick ’85, Joe Moore ’85, Tom Hopkins ’85, Brian Curley ’85, Steve Salerno ’85 and Peter Krenicky ’85
Emi Winterer, Bill Winterer ’87, and Andrew Coombs ’05
Scanlan brothers, Michael ’82 and Brian ’80, center, surrounded by Kristen Crowley P’20, Tim Crowley ’82 P’20, Paula Scanlan and Cynthia Chang Scanlan
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
Maddie Knudson ’20, Steven Crabtree ’20, Chris Franco ’19 and Elise Banderob ’19
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 2025 ABBOT’S RECEPTION
Wednesday, December 10
The classes of 2016, 2017, and 2018 are well represented.
Dana Covarrubias and Ronan Babbitt ’05
Shaliza Leahy, Mike Riordan ’87, Ernie Salas ’87 and Kristin Eno
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 61
Saving Stead Park
Stead Pavilion as shown in a rendering by VMDO Architects.
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
Editor’s Note: Mary Force Stead was the granddaughter of Peter Force, the 12th mayor
Chris Dorment ’63
of Washington, D.C. She was the first wife of
shares a story of alumni
Peter Stead ’43, who, after graduation, was
connections that benefit children in Washington, D.C.
architect Robert Stead and grandmother to ordained as Dom Julian Stead, 0.S.B. She died prematurely in 1895, and in his will, Robert Stead left land to be turned into a park and funds entrusted to its upkeep. The original site was deemed unsuitable for a playground due to high automobile traffic. The current site, initially named Jamaica Playground, was re-named the Mary Force Stead Playground following its completion in 1953.
z It all started when he asked if he could see my glasses. The year was 2007; the gentleman was Carroll Carter ’45 outside a local parish in Washington, D.C., on a hot Sunday morning. I knew I was in trouble because my glasses were of no interest to a man who thinks so strategically and aspirationally. As he started polishing my glasses, he asked if I could find the time to drive by and investigate a small ‘pocket’ park located at 16th & P St., NW – four blocks from the White House. 4
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 63
Two years later, I was the Chairman of the Friends of Stead Park (FOSP), an assortment of nine citizens, ages 30–80, from vastly different walks of life. All of them were competent and civic-minded, but none had significant business, political, or financial experience. Our collective goal was to transform a primarily neglected 3/8th of an acre of parkland, which housed a hodgepodge of rusting recreational equipment (swings, seesaws, etc.) and a roughhewn, undersized soccer field best known to the local neighborhood for sheltering a voluminous, underground rat population, into a useable soccer field and a functional playground for children. While the group’s goal was relatively modest, it seemed impossible. FOSP did, however, have one significant asset: a charitable trust created in 1943 through the generous spirit of the prominent Robert and Mary Stead family. The trust’s purpose was to establish a park to serve the children of Washington, D.C. Initially completed in 1953, The park had served the community for many decades and was the site of countless festivals, movie nights, and community
events. This began to change in the early 1980s when the park fell into disrepair. In 2004, worried that Stead Park had become an eyesore, Dom Julian Stead ’43, the grandson of Robert and Mary, had the foresight to contact his former roommate, Carroll Carter ’45 — to paraphrase the New York Yankee slugger Reggie Jackson — “to be the straw that stirs the drink.” Carter thus began his quest to realize the trust’s mission and Friends of Stead Park (FOSP) was born. Unfortunately, the trust instrument was not artfully drafted, and the trust’s liquid assets languished under the bank trustee for almost half a century. Among the new FOSP team was the estimable son of Carroll, Adam Carter ’83, and his brothers, Carroll, Jr. ’77, and Casey ’84. Also on the board was the talented architect Outerbridge Horsey ’71, a cousin of the Carter clan. Having put together a board, we now needed a plan to liberate the money in the trust and achieve its intended purpose. Again, the elder Carter was invaluable. His old friend and neighbor, Whayne Quin, was, by most accounts, the best zoning attorney in Washington. Quin, who was brilliant and an idealist himself, launched a painstakingly methodical campaign to convince the bank that putting this money to work for its intended purpose was right. Implicit in his persuasion was that
Designs by VMDO Architects show Stead Park in the late 1950s/early 1960s, and just prior to renovations in the mid-2000s.
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
The site design shows all of the elements of the park as a community-focused gathering place. (r) The ribbon cutting ceremony in 2016.
intransigence on the part of the bank after all these years was not a good look. It took two years, but he got it done and charged nothing for his valuable time. By 2012, the elder Carter’s health made his life debilitating. In all honesty, his health made his quest on behalf of FOSP all the more compelling because he was so clearly battling on behalf of ‘our’ children. The very act of transporting him from his car to his chair at our bi-monthly meetings was a marvel of grit, heft, and aerodynamics. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in 2016, and today, as a result of Dom Julian’s intervention, Carroll Carter’s clear-eyed tenacity, Whayne Quin’s good work, and the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation’s willingness to climb on a successful bandwagon, Stead Park is still a sight to behold: a gleaming 15-million-dollar structure
transformed from a historic carriage house, 7200 square feet in size, which is serving the children of Washington in after school learning programs, including arts, dance, tutoring, and cultural exchanges. The playground was also renovated with new equipment, and the sports field will soon receive an update as we move into another decade of service. Upon reflection, it is great to write a success story, but I would like to believe that the same values and dreams that drove the principals in this tale are the very same values and dreams that our beloved school has continued to instill today. Flowers remain among the plantings at Stead Park.
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 65
milestones
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births
’10 | Patrick Lohuis’ daughter, Lauren Grace Lohuis. ’10 | Tristan and Grace Popham Hobbes with their son, Griffin Thomas Hobbes.
’04 | Kate Lyons with husband Corey, baby Alexandra and dog Dani. ’10 | Ryan Lohuis’s daughter Rory with her new baby brother, Kieran John Lohuis.
2002 A boy, Conor Francis Fitzgerald, to Nóra and James Fitzgerald August 3, 2024
2010 A boy, Griffin Thomas Hobbes, to Tristan and Grace Popham Hobbes January 16, 2025
2011 A boy, Mack Curtis Behan, to Tina and Garrett C. Behan December 2024
2004 A girl, Alexandra Hope Lyons, to Corey Millard and Katherine E. Lyons December 6, 2024
A boy, Theodore Butler MacGuire, to Alexandra and Pierce P. MacGuire September 25, 2024
A girl, Sadie Savoie Carmilani, to Craig Carmilani and Madeline E. Savoie September 12, 2024
A girl, Lauren Grace Lohuis, to Kara and Patrick W. Lohuis July 25, 2024
2012 A boy, Patrick Francis Fallon, to Elizabeth and James H. Fallon September 5, 2024
A girl, Eleanor Claborn, and a boy, Benjamin Claborn, to Casey Claborn and Susan K. Willis December 2024 2009 A girl, Rae Dawn Trueman Coughlin, to Ryan Coughlin and Riley Grant August 3, 2024
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A boy, Kieran John Lohuis, to Meghan and Ryan D. Lohuis May 26, 2024 A boy, Crue Evan Winfrey, to Ch’Kori and Evan Winfrey January 17, 2025
weddings 2005 Christopher Neimeyer to Fria Garcia November 16, 2024 2007 Kaitlyn E. Soares to Jeremy K. Abbott October 4, 2024 2009 Ally R. Boglioli to Hunter Goddard September 7, 2024 2010 J. Quentin Dickmann III to Monica Stokes July 27, 2024 Juan C. Gautreau to Amalia Prida September 2024 Carlos A. Tavares to Cristina Espinal June 9, 2024
’07 | Kaitlyn Soares’ wedding to Jeremy Abbott.
2011 Catherine L. Shanahan to Wesley L. Bright September 14, 2024 2012 Andrew H. Godfrey, Jr. to Abbie Bergan October 26, 2024 2016 Jocelyn A. Varieur to Nicholas Prendergast September 6, 2024
’10 | J. Quentin Dickmann’s wedding to Monica Stokes.
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necrology
Catherine C. Abbate Wife of Christopher A. Abbate ’88 and mother of Eloise R. Abbate ’20 and Michael E. Abbate ’23 September 17, 2024 Richard L. Ahern Father of Brendan E. Ahern ’93 January 2, 2025 Arthur J. Bell, Jr. Former football coach at Portsmouth Abbey School August 18, 2024 Paula Lawton Bevington Sister of the late Jorge A. Lawton ’63 and step-mother of T. Rickey Bevington ‘71 August 4, 2025 Robert E. Cadogan, Sr. Former faculty and basketball coach at Portsmouth Abbey School April 24, 2024 Luis M. Castillo Father of Carlos E. Castillo ’18 and Rodolfo Castillo ’20 October 25, 2023 James M. Chase ’56 Brother of the late Dom Geoffrey Chase ’48, William W. Chase ’65 and Charles F. Chase ’68 and uncle of Evan W. Chase ‘00 March 5, 2024 Christopher J. Christian ’72 May 4, 2024
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
George E. Cleary, Jr. ’58 March 27, 2023 Dominic F. Corrigan ’59 Father of Dominic P. Corrigan ’95 and brother of the late John C. Corrigan, Jr. ‘55 March 8, 2025 William A. Crimmins ’48 Former faculty and Grandfather of Adam S. Crimmins ’11 January 22, 2025 John B. Cummings, Jr. ‘63 Father of John B. Cummings III ’83 and David C. Cummings ’84 July 20, 2024 James P. Danaher Father of James P. Danaher, Jr. ’66 and Thomas C. Danaher ’70 October 7, 2024 Charles D. Dean III Brother of Matthew B. Dean ’93 September 27, 2024 Richard DeMarco Father-in-law of Christopher A. Winter ’83 October 29, 2024 Jacques A. de Spoelberch ’54 December 26, 2024 Michael D. FitzGerald Grandfather of Julia A. FitzGerald ’22, Liam M. FitzGerald ’26, and Abigail E. FitzGerald ’27 August 16, 2024
R. Augustus Flynn Grandfather of Peter T. Tasca ’09 and James T. Tasca ’11 June 3, 2024 Mary M. Fonts Mother-in-law of faculty member Meghan Fonts and grandmother of Matthew R. Fonts ’14, Andrew L. Fonts ’17, and Luke A. Fonts ’21 November 15, 2024 Alice P. Green Wife of Charles L. Touhey ’64 August 20, 2024 Joan A. Hannon Grandmother of Patrick M. Hannon ‘10 August 17, 2024 Charles D. Hickey ’60 Brother of Conn B. Hickey ‘62 and Martin E. Hickey ‘67 December 4, 2024 James R. Hogg Father of Margaret A. Herr ’97 and William R. Hogg ’01 January 2, 2024 P. Nagle Jackson ’54 July 15, 2024 Charlotte Kelly Grandmother of Liam P. Kelly ’16, Meagan C. Kelly ’17, and Brendan J. Kelly ’19 January 9, 2025 Jeremiah R. Leary Father of Matthew P. Leary ’90 August 30, 2024
G. Garrett Lind ’55 October 1, 2024 Donald G. Magee Father of Kate M. Varela ’00 and uncle of Matthew P. Leary ’90 September 25, 2024 Jonathan R. Mahony ’91 October 28, 2024 Peter P. Mariani, Jr. ’61 Brother of Ralph A. Mariani ’66 and Paul V. Mariani ’69 October 27, 2024 John L. Marshall III Father of John J. Marshall ’90 April 11, 2022 William L. Marshall Grandfather of Shane Roman ’26 October 21, 2024 Nancy C. McKenna Mother of Paul J. McKenna III ’71, Timothy G. McKenna ’76, and Robert D. McKenna ’82 and grandmother of Paul J. McKenna IV ‘01 September 27, 2024 Ellen G. Noble Widow of the late Norman J. Noble ’48 and mother of R. Christopher Noble ’72 and Timothy G. Noble ‘74 January 20, 2025 Anne K. O’Hara Grandmother of William M. Young ’11 and John P. Young ’12 October 19, 2024
William M. O’Neil III ‘53 May 19, 2024 Bernice Parella Grandmother of Peter J. Parella ‘19, Joseph T. Parella ’21, and Matthew J. Parella ‘23 July 12, 2024 Lucille M. Petrucci Great Aunt of Matthew K. Plumb ’17, Joshua M. Plumb ’20, and William H. Plumb ’27 September 29, 2024 Antonio C. Ramos Father of Toni A. Ramos ’12 September 13, 2024 Owen Philip Reid, Jr. ’55 Brother of John T. Reid ’62 January 15, 2025 Donald Roman Grandfather of Shane Roman ‘26 September 22, 2024 Peter N. Rogers ’60 Brother of Mark H. Rogers ’64 and nephew of the late Andre C. Reggio ’32 and the late A. Nicholas Reggio ’43 December 12, 2024
Louis E. Ruckno, Sr. Grandfather of Zachary Bartley ’20 and Zoey Bartley ’23 January 29, 2025 J. Kenneth Saer ’47 November 9, 2024 Dom Paschal Scotti, O.S.B. Teacher and monk of Portsmouth Abbey School January 15, 2025 Richard A. Stratton Father of Charles A. Stratton ’84 January 18, 2025 Eugene R. Sullivan, Jr. ’57 Father of Eugene R. Sullivan III ’88 August 1, 2024 Elizabeth A. Trumpbour Sister of Louis E. Trumpbour ’91 and Mark F. Trumpbour ’93 February 12, 2024 David G. Wight Father of Felicita E. Wight ’04 July 22, 2024
Daniel D. Roten Stepfather of Elizabeth S. Scanlan ’02 October 15, 2024
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R IN MEMORY OF WILLIAM A. CRIMMINS ’48 (1930-2024)
Cherished and admired, William A. (Bill) Crimmins ’48 was a
and Father Hugh Diman, O.S.B. These men also showed great
true Renaissance man whose influence enticed young and old
compassion when he lost his brother Thomas at Okinawa and his
alike to embrace knowledge and personal development.
brother Hugh on D-Day. They aided in his search for meaning.
How he lived during his 95 years will be remembered long
Bill studied briefly at Northeastern University and then graduated
after his death on January 22, 2025, at his home in Newport, Rhode Island.
from the University of Notre Dame in 1955. After pursuing postgraduate studies at St. Louis University, he returned to the
Born in London, England, in April 1929, he was a descendant
Abbey as a teacher in 1957.
of Sir Arthur and Lady Chance of Dublin, Ireland. His mother,
Students loved his style, generous spirit and slightly mad nature. He
Ethel Chance, studied medicine at Oxford University. She married Thomas Crimmins, an American graduate of Harvard
eschewed the necktie, preferring blazers, turtlenecks and ascots.
and Brasenose College, Oxford, who became the European representative for the First National Bank of Boston in London, Paris, and Rome. Thomas Crimmins perished in a tragic accident in Ireland when his youngest son was just two and a half years old. At age eight, Bill Crimmins moved to the United States with his family to escape the onset of war in Europe. In 1942, he enrolled in Portsmouth Priory School as one of seven boys in a new First Form. His brother Hugh had enlisted in the Canadian Air Force, and his brother Thomas joined the ROTC program at Princeton University to become a Marine. Bill fell in love with Portsmouth and, in his words, was influenced by “four exceptional men” who helped him find a sense of belonging: Father Andrew Jenks, O.S.B., Father Hilary Martin, O.S.B., Father Bede Gorman, O.S.B.,
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PORTSMOUTH ABBEY SCHOOL
A young William Crimmins (seated, second from left) in his early years at Portsmouth.
They knew he was a few minutes late for class when they would
He was especially close to Father Hilary Martin, O.S.B., as they shared
see him race his navy blue Camaro down the long School driveway.
a love for art, architecture, and European civilization. Bill sometimes
He taught Ancient and Medieval History and was exuberant in the classroom. His excitement was infectious. His quick wit kept students on their toes, as they suspected he could read their minds. He often knew what they were thinking before they could put it
accompanied Father Hilary and his graduating Sixth-Form students on their Arts and Civilization summer tours to the continent. Father Hilary described him as “the most personally generous man I have ever known.”
into words. They also knew that he would not hesitate to interrupt
Bill Crimmins never took a salary for his work at Portsmouth from
a lecture or sports practice if one of them was caught daydreaming.
the late 1950s through the early 1970s. His most visible contribution
He coached multiple sports; sometimes, “Uncle Billy” even gave bonus points for athletic victories. At one point, this proved difficult for a middler football team with a defeated two-game season. “Just one victory will save the whole season,” he shouted to the team from the sidelines. He then shifted to “just one score,” finally, he pleaded, “just one sustained drive.” It was not to be, but he
to the Abbey community is the double-faced Meinrad Burch crucifix accompanying Trinity, the wire sculpture by Richard Lippold that hangs high above the Church of St. Gregory the Great altar. He commissioned the crucifix to honor his two brothers killed in World War II. In addition to conferring funds for buildings and programs, he provided transformative scholarships for talented students in need.
never gave up hope. A few years later, some of these players were
Beyond his work and philanthropy on behalf of Portsmouth Abbey,
on the championship team in 1969, where they came together to
he had an extraordinary history of contributing to the cultural life of
defeat rival St. George’s 8-7 and to offer prayers for their beloved
Newport and Aquidneck Island, cofounding several institutions that
Coach Coen, who suffered a family tragedy the evening before the
have become part of the fabric of the community: the Newport Music
game. As always, Bill Crimmins was there to guide them through.
Festival, the Norman Bird Sanctuary, the Pennfield School and the Newport Cultural Commission, as well as supporting prominent local institutions such as the Newport Art Museum and the Redwood Library and Athenaeum.
CLOCKWISE: Crimmins with the baseball team in 1961. Teaching Ancient History in 1970. Coaching outside in 1971. Bill Crimmins wearing a jacket and turtleneck – one of his signature styles.
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IN MEMORY OF WILLIAM A. CRIMMINS ’48 He sponsored the groundbreaking “Monumenta” contemporary sculpture exhibition, for which he was recognized last summer at a symposium presented by the Preservation Society of Newport County. He produced a movie titled “Pilgrimage,” filmed in Newport, New York City, and Rome. The movie was included in La Semaine de la Critique at the Cannes Film Festival and is now in the Museum of Modern Art collection. Bill’s generosity extended to the Rhode Island School of Design, where he served on the board of directors. He was also a deeply committed supporter of the NAACP, the Southern Poverty Law Center, the National Organization for Women and the American Civil Liberties Union. Never forgetting his Benedictine education and the support he received, he was also involved with the founding of the Monastery of Christ in the Desert in Abiquiu, New Mexico. In 1974, he married Gael Andrews, the love of his life and best friend. For the next 50 years, they raised their merged family together, traveling extensively throughout the United States and Europe. For nearly 30 years, they spent their winters on Captiva Island, Florida. They also enjoyed a summer home at Lake Megunticook in Camden, Maine, where Bill’s grandfather had first summoned him to the United States. Those who are genuinely noble give all they can. Bill Crimmins gave his community and students a shining example of character, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the beauty within God’s grace. He is survived by his widow, Gael Andrews Crimmins; eight children, Catherine Crimmins of Providence, Rhode Island; Thomas Crimmins and his wife Trina of Kodiak, Alaska; John Crimmins and his wife Denise of Middletown, Rhode Island; Hugh Crimmins of San Diego, California, Paul Crimmins of Honolulu, Hawaii, Eve Crimmins of Camden, Maine, stepdaughter Alyson Baker and her husband Zachary Hadlock of Katonah, New York and step-son Christopher Baker and his wife Defne Tutus of Brooklyn, New York; six grandchildren, Adam Crimmins, Tommi Taylor and her husband Caleb, Samantha Crimmins, Laura Wu, Dorian Wu, and Luke Crimmins; and two great-grandsons, Finnegan and Fletcher Taylor. He was predeceased in 2019 by his sister, Gillian Fenwick of Monkton, Maryland. In honor of his memory, a Mass will be celebrated at Portsmouth Abbey in the Church of St. Gregory the Great on Saturday, May 31, at 11 a.m.
R
Portsmouth Abbey extends its prayers and condolences to the Crimmins family.
J
If you wish to support the William A. Crimmins Scholarship in Arts, Athletics, and Civilization at Portsmouth Abbey School in honor of his memory, please contact Assistant Head of School for Development and Alumni Affairs, Stephanie Dwyer at sdwyer@portsmouthabbey.org
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Bill and Gael Crimmins with grandson Adam Crimmins ‘11, and Bill with his great-grandson.
R PAUL NAGLE JACKSON ’54 (1936-2024)
Class of 1954 member Paul Nagle Jackson, a man who knew the stage
The actor-director-playwright and translator carried a sense of discipline
as intimately as breath, has taken his final bow. He departed this world
and purpose into his career, crafting performances worldwide that bore
on July 15, 2024, in Rhinebeck, New York, at the age of 88. His was a
the mark of his deft hand.
life spent in the service of the theater — directing, but conjuring, shaping, instructing, and always bringing art to life.
From the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, where he made his acting debut in 1959 and first directed in 1965, to the Bolshoi Dramatic Theater,
A son of Portsmouth Priory, Nagle Jackson was described by classmates
where he became the first American invited to direct in the Soviet Union,
as an “old-timer” because of an earlier year-long sojourn in France.
his reach was long and his vision clear. As Artistic Director of Milwaukee
They credited him with being “a main source of entertainment” and
Repertory Theatre and later of the McCarter Theatre Center, he
gifted, both on and off the stage. They knew the Pacific Coast was
transformed these institutions into beacons of regional theater
calling to him and that he was destined for a
excellence. At McCarter, he led the theater to
journey fueled by his creative nature, energetic
a Tony Award and directed countless
spirit and outstanding intellect.
productions that earned critical acclaim.
Being a man of letters and a scholar at heart, he
His career encompassed Broadway, Off-
was shaped by the literary world of Whitman
Broadway, and regional theater, and his
College, where he earned degrees in English
productions graced the stages of Hartford
and French Literature. He later honed his craft
Stage, The Acting Company in New York
as a Fulbright Fellow in Paris, studying mime
City, The Old Globe in San Diego, Seattle
under Etienne Decroux. These experiences
Repertory Theatre, the Utah, Dallas, and
imbued his work with a keen awareness of
Alabama Shakespeare Festivals, and many
movement, language, and nuance, qualities that
more. His directorial accomplishments included
would make his productions stand apart.
staging the final play needed to complete the Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s production of P. Nagle Jackson ‘54
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 73
IN MEMORY OF PAUL NAGLE JACKSON ’54 Shakespeare’s full canon, an achievement he approached with characteristic diligence and reverence. He acted with the New York Shakespeare Festival, performed for President John F. Kennedy in Washington, D.C., and was featured in a Cole Porter revue with Tammy Grimes in Los Angeles. He dabbled in the television industry and is recognized most notably for the “Jack Paar Program” in 1962 and the 1967 “NBC Experiment in Television” series. Nagle Jackson was a playwright of remarkable insight, penning 20 original works and adaptations. His plays, including “The Quick-Change Room,” “Taking Leave,” and “The Elevation of Thieves” (winner of an Onassis Foundation International Playwriting award), demonstrated his wit, humanity and understanding of the theatrical form. His widely performed play “Taking Leave” which tackled the subject of Alzheimer’s Actor shot: Oregon Shakespeare Festival
disease, became part of the repertory of The National
(right) Nagle and future wife Sandy in the Julius Monk Review “Struts and Frets.”
of his work.
Theatre of China. This honor spoke to the universality
His contributions extended far beyond the productions he helmed. He was a key figure in new play development,
(below) Nagle Jackson at McCarter Theatre.
founding Denver Center Theater Company’s “Working
photo by randall hagadorn
Stages,” which became a nationally recognized
Nagle and his wife Sandy in 1964 at Mt. Ashland.
incubator for emerging works. His influence was also felt in academia, as he shared his knowledge through residencies and lectures at institutions such as Yale, Princeton, and the University of Washington. His alma mater awarded him an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters in 1995. His years at Portsmouth had a great impact on him, from taking trains across the country from his rural hometown of Walla Walla, Washington, to meeting students from all over the world and continuing his religious education. A recording of a musical show entitled “Breaking Loose,” written with a fellow student and performed on campus was found after his passing. His was a life richly lived, though not without sorrow. After the passing of his beloved wife Sandy Suter Jackson in 2023, his heart, it seems, began its own slow departure. He is survived by daughters Rebecca and Hillary, his two grandchildren, and an extended family who will carry forth his legacy in ways both seen and unseen. His influence endures in the many stages he graced, the artists he mentored, and the works he leaves behind, the record of a lifetime dedicated to the transformative power of the theater.
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Portsmouth Abbey extends its prayers and condolences to the Jackson family.
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R IN MEMORY OF BENJAMIN TILTON KERNAN ‘60 (1942-2024)
Benjamin Tilton “Ben” Kernan ‘60, a man of deep faith,
passion for travel and global engagement, inspiring him to later
boundless curiosity, and unwavering commitment to service,
spend seven years in Mbale, Uganda, where he taught English
passed away peacefully on July 28 at 82 in his home in Keene
and history and formed lasting bonds with the local community.
Valley, New York. Ben was a devoted father, grandfather,
His travels, deeply rooted in both faith and curiosity, took him
educator, and traveler who led a life marked by adventure,
across the globe — from the villages of India to the historic
generosity and a profound connection to the world
landscapes of Bosnia and Herzegovina — always seeking to
around him.
connect, learn and contribute.
Born and raised in Manhattan, Ben spent his formative
Throughout his varied career, Ben embraced opportunities to
summers between Fishers Island and Keene Valley, developing
work with his hands and heart. He owned and operated a farm
an enduring love for nature and the spirit of exploration.
in Orwell, Vermont, where he found joy in the rhythms of the
His journey in education began at
land. He later pursued real estate ventures
Portsmouth Priory, where he formed
in Panama City Beach, Florida. Ultimately,
lifelong friendships and cultivated the
he returned to the Adirondack Mountains,
intellectual and spiritual foundation
where he found peace in retirement,
that would guide him throughout
surrounded by the beauty of Keene Valley.
his life. He continued his studies at
A devoted animal lover, he was rarely
Georgetown University, earning his
without the steady companionship of
bachelor’s degree before answering
his loyal dogs — Sasha, Cleo, Samba,
the call to serve.
and Tazz were among his cherished,
Ben’s dedication to helping others led
companions over the years.
him to the Peace Corps, where he
Ben’s legacy of warmth, intellectual
spent two transformative years
curiosity, and adventurous spirit continues
in Chile, teaching and immersing
through his daughters, Maud and Sophie,
himself in the culture and community.
his son-in-law, Michael, and his six
This experience ignited a lifelong
beloved grandchildren, Anna, Declan, Ben Kernan ‘60 photo: jordan craig ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 75
IN MEMORY OF BENJAMIN TILTON KERNAN ‘60
Tobin, Luke, Rowan and Jake. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Ann and Francis, but leaves behind an extended family of friends and former students who carry forward his lessons of kindness, service and exploration. A gathering to celebrate Ben’s life was attended by Portsmouth Priory classmates Tom Healey ’60, Cyr Ryan ’60 and Chris Kinney ’60, Cyr Ryan, Jr. ’96, as well as Portsmouth’s Abbey’s Head of School Matthew Walter and his wife Paula. The occasion reflected the lasting bonds of the Portsmouth community and the profound impact Ben had on all who knew him. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Saint Brendan’s Catholic Church in Keene, New York, where friends and family came together to remember a life well lived — a life defined by adventure, faith, and an enduring commitment to the people and places he loved. May he rest in peace.
R Portsmouth Abbey extends its prayers and condolences to the Kernan family.
Head of School Matt Walter P’18 ‘20 and his wife Paula attended Ben Kernan ‘60’s memorial service along with classmates Tom Healey ‘60, Cyr Ryan ‘60 and Chris Kinney ‘60.
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IN MEMORY OF REVEREND DOM PASCHAL SCOTTI, O.S.B. (1961-2025)
On January 15, 2025, the Feast of Saints Maurus and Placid,
His honesty was unwavering, his standards exacting and his
Reverend Dom Paschal Scotti, O.S.B. was called to the Lord
care for his students profound. As Head of School Matt Walter
while praying the Divine Office with his monastic brethren in
recalled, Father Paschal spoke passionately of his love for his
the Church of St. Gregory the Great. There, in the sacred
students and his desire for their happiness, a love rooted in
space where so many times he lifted his voice in prayer, he
his devotion to Jesus Christ, the Catholic Church and
met the God to whom he had devoted his life.
Portsmouth Abbey School.
Born Patrick Scotti on September 22, 1961, in Long Branch,
“We are grateful for the sixty-three years he lived
New Jersey, to Patrick and Rose (Bonanno) Scotti, he
among us. We must be thankful for all that he gave us in that
discerned early the call to faith and intellect, a dual vocation
time and for all that he allowed us to give to him,” said the
that would define his life’s work. A voracious reader and a
Right Reverend Abbot Michael Brunner, O.S.B., during his
daily communicant from his youth, he pursued the life of the
homily for the funeral Mass on January 21.
mind at Columbia University, earning a degree in history in
Students remember Father Paschal’s humor as much as
1983 before answering the monastic summons at Portsmouth
his wisdom. Who can forget his stern yet affectionate
Abbey. Professing his vows in 1985 and receiving priestly
admonition, “Don’t do glass!” to ensure they absorbed
ordination in 1989, Father Paschal lived the Rule of St.
the crux of a lesson? Or his theatrical exclamations —
Benedict with uncompromising fidelity, finding joy in the
“UP SIMBA!” or “Awaken sweet prince,” to wake a sleeping
rhythm of prayer, study, and teaching.
student, or “Satan!” during power outages, a jest that never
At Portsmouth Abbey School, Father Paschal was more than
failed to lighten the mood.
a teacher; he was a guide, a mentor, and, for many, a lifelong
His directness was legendary; when asked if he would be
friend. During his time, he taught in the Departments of
attending an upcoming athletics match, he quipped, “I will
History, Humanities and Christian Doctrine. He also served as
not be there; I don’t believe in sports.” And yet, he believed
assistant houseparent in St. Benet’s and St. Leonard’s.
deeply in the young men and women entrusted to his care,
His students recall his Socratic wit, his boundless enthusiasm
evidenced by the fact that he did indeed attend many of their
for history and theology, and the ever-present book in his
games and matches over the years as a parent might,
hands. He could weave Chesterton, St. Augustine, and Monty
cheering the students on in victory and consoling them in
Python into a single conversation, elevating young minds
defeat. Of course, as in the case shared by a current Third-
while eliciting laughter. If one lesson defined his pedagogy, it
Form student, the consoling could also come in the form of
was the call to think deeply and never settle for half-truths.
tossing a piece of candy at your head while you are looking ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 77
IN MEMORY OF REVEREND DOM PASCHAL SCOTTI, O.S.B.
Father Paschal offering words of wisdom during a School photo shoot with Abbot Michael Brunner O.S.B., Hans Yuan ‘25, Brother Basil Piette, O.S.B., Ainsley Moe ‘27 and Father Edward Mazuski, O.S.B.
An archival photo of Father Paschal with former student and current board member Cara Gontarz Hume ‘99.
A familiar pose when teaching.
There was almost nothing Father Paschal wouldn’t do for his students.
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Taking a selfie with Anne Magauran ’14.
IN MEMORY OF REVEREND DOM PASCHAL SCOTTI, O.S.B.
down in class and then smiling impishly
conviction aflame, ever burning for the
while classmates erupt in laughter — a
eternal. An avowed and self-proclaimed
simple act to extinguish self-doubt after
“conservative,” he was always honest about
a loss and remind you that you are loved.
his beliefs and could be counted on to tell it
Father Paschal was not shy about
as he saw it.
photoshoots or appearing in School
Father Paschal’s homilies always hammered
videos, and he loved collaborating with
home two crucial points that Abbot Michael
student filmmakers. Just before his
said he would want students to remember.
passing, he encouraged Lorenzo Munda
“The first is that your soul and the spiritual
’27 to begin planning his next short film
life are very real, not some myth or fairy tale.
before the spring, reminding him that the
They are the most real realities of existence.
present is always the best time to create.
Our happiness depends upon our care and
He had happily agreed to appear as a
nourishment of this spiritual life. Doing so will
zombie in the pending production.
give us the power to live a good, meaningful
Father Paschal at Mass 2024.
His generosity was quiet but constant. A granola bar for a hungry student would appear from the pocket of his robe that was supposedly full of holes, an impromptu history lecture in the dining hall, a conversation that stretched beyond a workout session, taking a stray kitten found in the
and productive life. The second point is that God created you for greatness and that you must work diligently to attain it. At all costs, avoid mediocrity.” He also reminded them that “Father Paschal was faithful to his vows and did his very best every day to live up to God’s expectations and to live his life as a
bushes safely away from a student so the young woman could
holy monk. He did it for God and for you.”
get to class—these were the ways he gave of himself. He saw his
Preceded in death by his parents, he is survived by his sister
students not just as pupils but as souls in formation.
Angela and her husband Alfred, his four brothers and their wives:
Beyond the classroom, Father Paschal’s scholarly contributions
Robert and Wendy Scotti, Stephen and Joan Scotti, Michael, and
substantively enriched Catholic thought. His 2006 study of the English Catholic man of letters, Wilfrid Ward, was published by Catholic University of America Press and hailed as a deeply erudite inquiry that brings to life the Edwardian and early Georgian eras and their now-forgotten figures. His second book-length study,
Lucy Scotti and Thomas and Karen Scotti, and many nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews. Father Paschal would spend two weeks each summer enjoying his family at the Jersey shore, where he would take long walks along the Asbury Park boardwalk, taking in the sun and the scents of the beach and
2017’s Galileo Revisited: The Galileo Affair in Context, was praised
surf.
for its nuanced, well-researched presentation of the historical,
Now, he has crossed the threshold from faith to sight, from space
scientific and theological complexities of the case while avoiding
and time to boundlessness, from the shadows of this world to
simplistic hero-villain narratives. His works on Catholic social
the fullness of divine truth. We who remain bound to this world
teaching further demonstrated his commitment to intellectual
for the present mourn his passing, yet we find our most profound
rigor and truth.
joy in the hope of the Resurrection. Portsmouth Abbey has lost a
In his own life, Father Paschal embodied the Benedictine call
luminous mind, a steadfast monk and a beloved teacher—but
to “keep death daily before one’s eyes,” often reminding his students that we are made for heaven, meant for transformation by God’s grace. Lukewarm faith was foreign to him; his was a
heaven has gained a devoted servant of Christ. May he rest in the peace of the Lord whom he loved so well and may we honor his memory by striving, as he did, for wisdom, holiness and the joy of the Gospel.
R Portsmouth Abbey extends its prayers and condolences to the Scotti family.
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 79
IN MEMORY OF REVEREND DOM PASCHAL SCOTTI, O.S.B. Editor’s Note: In the days following Father Paschal’s passing, we were deeply moved by the many memories and heartfelt condolences shared by members of our community. We thank those whose words were used in the tribute and offer a small selection of remembrances sent by some of the thousands of lives he touched during his 40 years of teaching. Names have been omitted for privacy.
“I dare say that he must have made more of an impact on more students than almost anyone at Portsmouth Abbey. He always had the students’ and the School ‘s best interests in mind. He was the champion of many of those who did not have a champion. We were all truly blessed to have him in our lives. His passing is a loss to the entire community, but ultimately what he lived for.” — ALUMNUS, CLASS OF 1993
“‘You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned?’ Mt. 5:13. Dom Paschal was a great monk and a legend among the students.
“I am especially grateful that I was able to see him one last time at the reunion this fall. I can’t begin to tell you the impact that he had on me and many of my contemporaries. I lived with him for three years in St. Benet’s, he was my advisor, and he wrote all my college recommendations. In short, he was my biggest advocate. I have always found it comforting that no matter where I was in the world I always knew that Father Paschal was on Cory’s Lane. I will miss him dearly.” — ALUMNUS, CLASS OF 1994
He never lost his saltiness. Requiescat in pace.” — ALUMNUS, CLASS OF 1992
“Junior Year— a classmate asks, ‘Father Paschal, why do I have to study ethics?’ He responds with a chuckle, ‘Because you are scum.’ He was the last of the generation of monks who were active during my years at Portsmouth. I teach literature at a lycée in Paris now, and my instincts were shaped by my years in the classroom with Father Paschal, Father Edmund, Father Damian and Father Ambrose. My students love it when I share stories of these men and Portsmouth in the early to mid-90s.” — ALUMNUS, CLASS OF 1995
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“I speak for many alumni when I say he helped shape our lives in deeply meaningful ways. It may seem strange to some that a Benedictine monk can have that sort of impact on so many people. But that is part of the uniqueness of a Benedictine education. I will share something he said in one of our last pieces of correspondence. Discussing books he had recommended, he said, ’There is no greater happiness than in God and no other end for us.’ As I mourn his unexpected passing, I take comfort that he has reached his end in the eternal happiness of God.” — ALUMNUS, CLASS OF 1998
“I am heartbroken over Father Paschal. I almost missed my parent/teacher meeting with my son’s physics teacher because he and I were contemplating women’s impact on the end of Spartan civilization!” — PORTSMOUTH ABBEY PARENT
“I’m so glad my daughter had him for a teacher this year – even if cut far too short. His empathy, humor and faith made a fast and meaningful impression. She shared that he would talk about his faith and the beauty of heaven during class. This is bringing her some comfort now.” — PORTSMOUTH ABBEY PARENT
“Father Paschal married us and baptized our son. He was the most genuine man, filled with life and conviction, and had the best humor. I’m sad to see him leave us this soon.” — ALUMNUS, CLASS OF 2000
“I had the absolute privilege of having Father Paschal as a teacher, along with my wife (whom I met at the Abbey) and three of my four children. My daughter was in his class this year. She often told me that it was the highlight of her school day. Father Paschal will most certainly be missed. It was an honor to have known him for the past 30 years.” — ALUMNUS, CLASS OF 1997
“Father Paschal would tease me by saying, ’Your dad did it, and you’re smarter than him, so I know you can do it.’” — STUDENT, CLASS OF 2025, SON OF THE GRADUATE WRITING ABOVE
“His favorite K-pop song was ‘T’wice,’ by TT. Father Paschal would often ask for help pronouncing Korean words. When we asked one of our Korean students if he was improving, the student smiled and said, ‘No,’ which got everyone laughing.” — HOUSEPARENT
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 81
cl ass notes
1958 Kirkus Book Review has named Dr. John Tepper Marlin’s new book on the Dutch Resistance “Under Nazi Noses” one of the 100 Best Indie Books of 2024. An Indie Book is one published by a small publisher, unaffiliated with the publishing giants Simon & Schuster, Hachette, or Penguin Random House. The Kirkus sums up Marlin’s book as, “An extraordinary tale, cinematic and historically painstaking.”
1959 The late Dominic F. Corrigan, MD was honored with a distinguished lectureship established by the Department of Medicine and the Division of Endocrinology at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. On October 22, 2024, Susan Mandel, MD, MPH, Chief of the Division of Endocrinology and Professor of Endocrinology and Radiology at the University of Pennsylvania, delivered the inaugural Dominic F. Corrigan, M.D., Lecture in Clinical Endocrinology. The lecture was
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followed by a celebratory reception in honor of Dominic’s retirement after 19 years at Brown. The lecture will be sponsored annually in recognition of his long-dedicated excellence in the training of physicians in the Brown University Health Endocrinology training program.
1960 Peter Dean is looking forward to his 65th Reunion in 2025!
1962 John Newlin is completing a second MFA in non-fiction writing at Converse University in SC. Geza Serenyi gives an update as 1962’s Class Agent, “The Class of 1962 had a participation rate of 73% for the 2023-2024 school year. Some wonderful last-minute donors in our class help us beat out our closest rivals, the Class of 1963, by 8%. The average participation rate for all classes is right around 25%. Perhaps the high participation rate during this academic year, as
well as during many previous academic years, is due to the fact that our class has been conducting monthly mini-reunions via Zoom. Our Zoom sessions started during the Covid lockdown and have continued ever since. These sessions are a wonderful way for our class to get connected and reconnected with each other. We use these Zoom sessions to share our joys and our sorrows. We use these Zoom sessions to share our writings and ideas. Most of all, we use these Zoom sessions to rekindle the friendships that were created during our years at Portsmouth. I hope that the younger generations of Portsmouth students will follow the footsteps of the Class of ‘62 in using technology to maintain and improve the bonds of friendship that you have built during your years at Portsmouth. As I write this note on Giving Tuesday, December 2, 2024, I also hope that the younger generations of Portsmouth students will work hard at growing their spirit of philanthropy towards many great causes, especially Portsmouth.”
’63 | Tony Oppersdorff and Bob Curry got together in Cambridge, Massachusetts in November.
1963 Tony Oppersdorf and Bob Curry, who both finished the Buckley School before joining Portsmouth’s Class of ‘63, got together in Cambridge, Massachusetts in November.
1966 / 1978 / 1964 John Campbell writes in from Oregon, “Earlier this Fall Seamus Flatley ‘78 hosted a dinner in the Mill District of Bend, Oregon for Head of School Matt Walter and his wife, Paula, who were visiting in Portland and Bend.It was a very pleasant evening during which I was glad to meet Matt, Paula and Seamus, and to catch up with Peter Kennedy ‘64 and his wife Carroll. Residing in Central Oregon, as my wife Janet and I do, gives me little opportunity to visit Portsmouth. The dinner and sporadic phone calls with my fellow Hermits, has inspired me to attend our 60th Class reunion in 2026.”
1976 Jeff Calnan shares an update, “Hello Portsmouth Community. I recently retired from the software world after a very very long, rewarding experience. I am now an elementary school substitute teacher and it’s a hoot! My call sign is Mr. C, and I get a chance to teach the curriculum set up by the teacher in math, science, reading, and writing. Along with this, I learned that one is required to ask the children to quiet down about sixty thousand times a day. I am, however, a short relief pitcher because it’s exhausting. But the children are beautiful; and its fun
working with children because I am one. I also have been working with a program for many years called TOPS for Hoops. It’s a program that provides an opportunity for children with physical or intellectual disabilities to play modified soccer or basketball. The picture is from last winter’s TOPS for Hoops. We have the athletes work one-on-one with the coaches who are high school volunteers. It is a wonderful program, and our mission is: We Put Smiles On Faces, which we do very well!
1966 Charlie Lamar was named the 2024 Golden Deeds Award winner by the Inter-Civic Council of Greater Baton Rouge for his volunteer work in service of the Baton Rouge, Louisiana community.
’76 | Jeff Calnan with children participating in the TOPS for Hoops program. ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 83
class notes
1989
Frank Tietje and his wife Margaret travelled to the United Kingdom this October and met up with Chris Cooke and his wife Lesley at their home in the Cotswolds. Plans are underway for a grand 50th year reunion in 2026, as Frank and Chris review the class of 1976 yearbook.
Tom Keenan relocated to France in the summer of 2024 to work in arbitration at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in Paris after more than 25 years in Hong Kong. Tom welcomes any visitors from the Abbey to Paris to catch up.
1997
1978 Bill Keogh and his wife Andrea have moved to Winter Park, Florida and will seasonally return to Jamestown, Rhode Island in the spring. Happy to connect with alumni and current Abbey families in the area.
1981 Michael Allen is still working as an assistant professor of classics at the University of Chicago where he is editing monastic letters from the 800s. He is also studying the writings, library, and circle of Lupus of Ferrières. Michael shares, “Lupus as a personal name, from ‘wolf,’ is a happy epistolary tillage.”
’81 | Michael Allen with mare, Rhea.
1982
Benedict Nivakoff was elected the first Abbot of Abbazia di San Benedetto in Italy. The Priory of San Benedetto in Monte was elevated to the status of an Abbey in May 2024, and Dom Benedict is its first Abbot since 1792.
Philip Moyles was promoted to co-president of EPIC Insurance Brokers & consultants. In this new role, he will focus on enhancing growth, carrier relationships, and placement strategies while continuing to lead EPIC’s Financial Services platform, the division which he helped establish.
’97 | Benedict Nivakoff was elected the first Abbot of Abbazia di San Benedetto in Italy.
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2001 Paul Suk-Hyun Yoon was named Vermont State University’s new Chief Diversity Officer in October. Paul reflected on his new position,“We are at a really important, pivotal moment in our nation’s history, and I believe how communities like ours approach this work will help shape the future.”
’10 / ’13 | Pierce MacGuire with baby Teddy and brother Rhoads ‘13.
2010 Pierce MacGuire and his wife Alex welcomed Theodore (Teddy) Butler MacGuire in September to their Georgetown, Texas home, joining P.J., Walker and Little Lanie. ’01 | Paul Suk Hyun Yoon was named Chief Diversity Officer at Vermont State University.
2007 Kaitlyn Soares married Jeremy Keen Abbott on October 4, 2024 in Newport, Rhode Island. Cedric Craig and Maximilian Klietmann were in attendance. The newlyweds honeymooned on Fogo Island and in Nova Scotia, enjoying the local cuisine, art, and fall foliage. The Abbotts reside in Los Angeles, where Kaitlyn leads public communications for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Jeremy, a lawyer and librarian, is teaching and earning a Ph.D. in Information Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles.
Sara Munda and her husband Robert Stone welcomed Henry Lorenzo into their family on July 6, in Newport, Rhode Island. They are grateful to the Abbey community for their support and welcome of Hal. The family is now living in Gainesville, Florida, where Robert is an assistant professor at the University of Florida and Sara is working on her next book.
’10 | Sara Munda with husband Robert and baby Hal.
2011 Tara Tischio finished her veterinary residency in neurology and neurosurgery and started a new job in Philadelphia. “If there are any other Abbey grads in the area, please reach out!” ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025 85
class notes
2012
2013
David Maldonado shares his first update since 2018, “Since leaving the Abbey, graduating in petroleum engineering from LSU, and starting a job in Midland, Texas (the last class note I sent in 2018), a lot has changed. I have since moved to Houston, Texas where I continue to work as a petroleum engineer. In exciting news, I got married in Guatemala! It was a beautiful ceremony, and I was thrilled to have several Abbey alumni in attendance, including Catherine Fairhurst ’11, Isa Minondo ’11, and Antonio Minondo ’13, and a few others. The School was well represented. Currently, I am in my first year of the MBA program at Rice University. Post-MBA, I plan to pursue a career in energy, specifically in oil and gas-related mergers and acquisitions. The Abbey, without a doubt, provided the foundation I needed to be where I am in my life and career today. The strong bond to the Catholic Church, the drive and Benedictine values instilled in me, and the support from Mrs. McCarthy, who spent countless
Hannah Niles shares her good news, “My fiancée proposed to me at the Abbey on March 30, 2024. I first brought him to the Abbey in March of 2023 for Easter mass — on the 10th anniversary of my first communion and conversion into the Catholic Church. We’ll be married at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral in Raleigh, North Carolina on March 1, 2025.
’12 | David Maldonado and his wife, Annie were married in Guatemala.
nights helping me with Algebra 2, made me fall in love with mathematics and excel in engineering. Additionally, the discipline forged through work squad and tough love from Br. Francis, Mr. Micheletti, and Mr. C. has been particularly influential. I sincerely thank them all for shaping who I am today.”
’13 | Hannah Niles with fiancée were engaged at the Abbey.
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2019
2020
Abbey Jackson is proud to announce,“My news is that in April [2025] I’ll be getting married! My fiancée is Zach Hatter who I met in college at Baylor University.”
Isabella Zangari graduated this past May from Colgate University, Magna Cum Laude, with a bachelor’s degree in international relations and minors in German and global public health. She has begun pursuit of her Master of Public Health degree in healthcare policy and management at Columbia University and is expected to graduate in May 2026.
2024
’13 / ‘18 | Sarah ‘13 and Alex ‘18 Sienkiewicz were honored with Faith in Action Awards.
Luca Sanders made the U20 Italian lacrosse national team and competed in the lacrosse European championships.
2013 / 2018 Siblings Sarah ’13 and Alex Sienkiewicz ’18 were honored as recipients of the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church’s (Bristol, Rhode Island) Faith in Action Award this summer. This is the second Abbey brother and sister duo to receive this honor. Dorothy ’13 and Quent Dickmann ’10 received this honor in 2014.
’19 | Abbey Jackson and fiancée Zach.
2016 Members of the Class of 2016 Jimmy Murphy, Rory O’Connor and Maddie O’Shea attended the Young Alumni Networking reception in New York. For photos of alumni events in Dallas, Bend, Portland, Chicago and New York, visit www.abbeycommunications. smugmug.com or scan the QR code.
’16 | Jimmy Murphy, Rory O’Connor and Maddie O’Shea attended the Young Alumni Networking reception in New York.
ALUMNI BULLETIN • WINTER 2025
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The Power of Planning Through a Planned Gift to Portsmouth Abbey School, you may be able to make a more substantial gift than previously imagined. The term “planned giving” describes the union of philanthropy and financial planning. Explore the many ways in which you can make a meaningful impact at the School while making the most advantageous financial decisions for you and your family.
Giving through Bequests
Beneficiary Designations
Real Estate & Personal Property
Designate a particular asset or a percentage of your estate to Portsmouth Abbey School by including a bequest provision in your will or revocable trust.
Name Portsmouth Abbey School as a beneficiary of a retirement plan, life insurance policy or donoradvised fund.
Transferring ownership of real estate or tangible personal property may be a meaningful way to support Portsmouth Abbey School.
Manor House Society The Manor House Society recognizes the generous forwardthinking individuals who partner with Portsmouth Abbey School to make a lasting impact beyond their lifetimes. It honors all individuals who have included the School in their estate plans, made a planned gift or established an endowed fund.
To learn more, visit portsmouthabbey.org/support/planned-giving Office of Development & Alumni Affairs • alumni@portsmouthabbey.org • 401-643-1281
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