Issuu

S P R I N G / S U M M E R

2 0 2 6

SEVEN HILLS B U I LD S I T S F UTU R E SEE INSIDE - PAGE 26

20 26

Contents 6 12 14 16 26 30 32 34 38 42 44 50 52 53 60 82 87

Congratulations, Class of 2026 Column By Head of School Matthew Bolton School News From Observation to Discovery and Science Spectacular Seven Hills Builds its Future Seven Hills On the Go! “The LaramieProject” Created by an Alumnus, Directed by Students Miriam Titcomb Memorial Fund Challenge Experiences: Three Stories of Discovery Empowering Student Agency through Service and Experiential Learning Winter & Spring Sports Retirements In Memoriam: Remembering John “Grampy” Schaefer Alumni News Reunion 2026 Class Notes Calendar of Upcoming Alumni Events Special thanks to Keith Neu for his sports photography. Seven Hills Magazine is a publication of The Seven Hills School.

Matthew Bolton, Ph.D. Head of School Margo Kirstein Director of Development

Auriel Buchanan Director of Communications and Marketing

Rachel Cheatham Digital Marketing Manager

Carol Brueggemeyer Art Director

THANK YOU! The Seven Hills Development Office extends its heartfelt appreciation to the more than 260 dedicated volunteers who generously give their time, energy, and talents to support The Seven Hills School. Your commitment ensures that we continue to provide the exceptional learning experiences and close-knit community that define a Seven Hills education. Your contributions make a lasting impact, and we are truly grateful!

•

2 0 2 5 - 2 6

Karin Anderson Abrell ’88 Jason Ackerman Will Adams ’87 Janet Allen-Reid ’76 Nupur Anand Libby Andrews Dulany Anning Angie Apple Helen Asbury H’72 John Atkinson Nancy Pechstein Aubke H’67 Wajiha Azhar Steve Baggott Spencer Bain ’20 Marianne & Gregory Ball Abby Barlow Fran Barrett Nolan Bean Bryan Bibler ’04 Natalie Bird Steve Black L’60 Ann Bartlett Blemker C’65 John Bloch ’03 Randy & Peter Bloch L’60 Tori Frazer Bonebrake ’77 Catherine Shelby Bowie-Hightower Spencer Boyd ’20 Lauren Boymel-Krekeler Muzette Britt Nyomi Lyttle Brooks ’05 Bruce Brown Sumbol Budhani Sarah Mitchell Buller ’81 Dottie Callard ’19 Lee Carter Lindsay Cassady Amy Chan Rob Chavez ’06 Sophia Choi Lalitha Chunduri Eliza Clark ’17 Terry Clayton Monica Coffey-Faison ’90 India Cole Mary Ida Sloneker Compton ’77 Tucker Jones Coombe ’79 Dorothy Kim Corbett ’84 Margaret Cox ’16 Polly Adair Culp H’65 Wynne McCarthy Curry H’71 Gabe Davis ’03 Monica Dealy ’99

D E V E L O P M E N T

Kim Dedeker Ron DeLyons Rosie DeWitt ’18 Tiffany Domet Tim Drew Peter Dumbadze ’06 Clare Dupree ’76 Fay Dupuis Scott Dust Ellen Levine Ebert L’55 Norman Ellard Molly Ellis ’14 Christie Evans ’76 Merry Ewing ’76 Ellie Fabe ’78 Lissy Fabe H’71 Molly Fender Elaine Fluent Fening ’81 Andi Ferguson Barbara & Tom Ferrell Meredith Edwards Ficks ’98 Richard Fink ’07 Alicia Fitscher Barbara Frey Jennifer Frey ’99 Meg Ganulin ’06 Thomas Charles Garber ’96 Kathryne Gardette ’79 Jane Garvey C’74 Lukas Geiger ’17 Raji Ghosh Ben Glassman ’93 Vickie Buyniski Gluckman Jan Fullgraf Golann H’67 Debbie Good Sarah McDonough Goodacre ’04 Lanie Pauly Grever H’69 Cathy & Chris Gross Brooke Guigui Joy Hall Abby Hanlon ’01 Isabelle Kalubi Harper ’00 Jenna Harris ’04 Mandy Hayes ’91 Tom Hayes Louise Atkins Head H’56 Michael Heldman ’16 Patti Heldman Stephanie Rabourn Helmer ’06 Sarah Henry Mary Herberth Karlene Herman Grace Allen Hill ’80

V O L U N T E E R S

Nicki Hirsh Dan Hoffheimer David Hoguet Brenda Holloway Laurent Huguenin Laura Humphrey Eric Hunter ’86 Brandon Hydrick ’92 Pamela Hysinger Shirelyn Iyoha Judy Jackson Clay Jamison ’06 Jie Jiang Kay Johnson Sarah Raup Johnson Evan Joiner ’03 Patricia Bigham Journeay H’65 Bill Junkin Kathy & Tom Kahle Cal Kalnow Caroline Kalnow ’06 Jacky Kalubi Tshiunza Kalubi ’02 Soni Kori Kastner Lair Kennedy Steve Kent Sarajane & Richard King Andrea Knarr Ashley Ackerman Kohn ’05 Ashley Kohnen Kalpana Kotagal ’95 Justin Kreindler ’98 Alex Kreines ’18 Matt Kreines ’18 Libby Landen Krone ’77 Samir Kulkarni Cathy Bramlage Kunz ’89 John Larkin ’13 James Lee Laura Hoguet Leonard ’06 Sally Leyman Shannon Li Jun Lu Kathi Makoroff Zola Makrauer Susan Makris Anne Mapes Younker ’11 Bill Markovits Michael A. Marrero Fayre Schweitzer Martin ’96 Josh Martin David Maxwell Jill McBride

Dani McClain Nancy McCormick ’83 Rebecca McDonough ’10 John McIlwraith Diana & Henley McIntosh Leslie Bennett McNeill C’61 Abby McNerney Tim Meckel ’77 Lane Sikes Merten H’71 Linda Miltner Chuck Mingo David Monroe ’91 Tracy Lynn Monroe ’82 Mike Morger Sybil Behrens Mullin ’83 Cheryl Murrer Kelly Myers ’91 Devi Namboodiri ’17 Asia Reid Narayan ’05 Theo Nelson Meg Niederhelman Jenny Oestreicher Libby Warrington Ott ’78 Myung Park Tory Woodhull Parlin H’63 Nirvana Patel Pretty Patel Carol Pearce Alana Pepper Alex Phillips ’02 Sarah Pearce Phipps ’96 Rita Lillard Picton H’66 Rita & Tom Pohl Jerry Porter Toni Sciarra Poynter ’77 Cathy Schwab Prichard ’78 Dick Quimby Andrew Quinn Glenna Rabourn Sravanthi Ramineni Amaranta Ramirez-Almaraz Matthew Randazzo Karen Recht Melody Sawyer Richardson C’61 David Robinson ’84 Elizabeth Rogers Judy Lane Rogers C’72 Jennie Rosenthal L’75 Rachael Rowe Sunny Rowe Catherine Ruby Regina Russo Sunny Bowman Saelinger C’61

•

Laura Lindner Sankey ’82 Matt Saporito ’15 Daniel Sauers ’15 Beth Schiff Jim Schiff Walker Schiff ’10 Max Schimberg ’09 Karla Baker Schweer ’96 Samir Shah Priya Shahani Jim Shanahan Sadikchya Sharma Emma Sheer ’09 John Silverman P.G. Sittenfeld ’03 Stephanie M. Smith Erin Snelting Jane Hamill Sommer L’55 Molly Stark Michael Stein ’20 Jen Stein Sarah Steinman Elizabeth Stock Melanie Finn Sureau ’01 Lani Swinford Dudley Taft Sr. L’52 Mary Taliaferro ’09 Anne Drackett Thomas H’66 Stephanie Wood Toomey ’85 Anna Topalidis Ceci Twachtman C’68 Elizabeth Urban ’81 Avanti Vadivelu Ellen van der Horst Heather Zaring Vecellio ’92 Stephanie Waugh Paula White Wharton ’83 Joy Whinery Katherine Oechler Whitbeck H’67 Judy Wiesemann Alissa Ireland Wikert ’06 Susan Elliott Wilkening C’60 Brandon Williams Robin Wilson Lisa Collins Winick ’85 Cassie Iseman Wissel ’02 Joan Wolfram Nancy Wolterman Peg Hogan Wyant H’60 Laney Yaninek Echo Zhang Lori Zimmerman

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: Q & A W I T H A L U M K AT H Y W H I T B E C K

A: My biggest message is that participation truly makes a difference.

People sometimes think their gift is too small to matter, but participation is incredibly important. When schools apply for grants or

The Development Office is grateful

outside funding, one of the first things

for the support we get from our

organizations look at is how many alumni

volunteers. If you’d like to join our

give back.

We chatted with Hillsdale ’67 graduate, Kathy Whitbeck, an active Seven Hills Development volunteer for more than 25 years, to learn about what inspired her to get involved, what keeps her coming back, and why she believes so strongly in the Annual Fund.

Q: You’ve been volunteering for the

school for many years. Why do you continue to stay involved?

A: When I look back, I spent more years at

Hillsdale than at any other school in my life. It was a formative time for me. My graduating class was small, about 30 students, and many of those friendships have lasted far longer than friendships from later in life. I also had teachers who made a tremendous impact on me. One of the best English teachers I ever had was there, and I stayed in touch with her for years. Experiences like that create a deep connection to the place. Volunteering is another meaningful way to give back to a school that meant so much to me.

Q: When you talk with classmates about supporting the school, what message

WE’RE THANKFUL FOR VOLUNTEER SUPPORT

I’ve seen firsthand that sometimes all it takes

team of volunteers, we’d be very happy to have you!

is a conversation. Many people have simply

HELPING HANDS

never been asked before. When you explain

Join fellow parents, alumni, former

that even a small gift helps demonstrate alumni support, people often feel excited to be part of that. It becomes a win-win … you feel good for asking, and they feel good for contributing.

Q: Looking back, what are some of

the biggest takeaways from your education at Seven Hills?

A: One of the most important things was

feeling taken seriously as a student. There was a real respect for learning and for different kinds of intelligence. It wasn’t just about who got the highest grade; it was about recognizing curiosity, creativity,

parents, and grandparents of Seven Hills who assist with Development Office mailings. ANNUAL GIVING COMMIT TEES Help support the Annual Fund by writing notes or making calls to encourage Seven Hills families and friends to make a gift. CLASS & REUNION R E P R E S E N TAT I V E S Help keep your classmates connected to each other and to the school with information about upcoming events, sharing classmates’ news, and encouraging Annual Fund support.

and original thinking. That kind of environment encourages students to believe they’re capable of more than they might realize. I also deeply value the strong academic foundation the school provided. The

To volunteer, please contact the Development Office at 513.728.2430 or development@7hills.org.

emphasis on reading, writing, and clear thinking may not sound flashy, but those fundamentals stay with you for life.

do you share with them?

CONGRATULATIONS S E V E N

H I L L S

C L A S S of 2 0 2 6

This year's commencement speaker, David Pepper, emphasizes that “character drives everything.”

Student Government representatives Malcom Faison '26 and Alisha Chaudhary '26 express their excitement and hope for the Class of 2026's future.*

Lemuel Zyyon ’26 sings a solo during the Upper School Chamber Ensemble’s performance.

Nina Head ’26, the student tribute speaker, encourages her fellow graduates during her speech.

During Upper School English teacher Mark Beyreis’s tribute speech, graduates pass batons to one another and thank each other for being on this journey together.

Amara Kulkarni ’26 and Gitu Iyer ’26 help one another with their graduation caps.

Maxwell Faison ’26 and Cam Castillo ’26 spot fellow graduates arriving to Music Hall.

Laikyn Burton ’26 heads inside for the ceremony to begin.

Grace Kennedy ’26 walks through flowery arches held up by underclassmen.

“

hen the tribulations of holding up a world feel too heavy, and hopes and dreams feel just too ambitious, remember the commitment, support, love, and countless hours of hard work that got you to this stage, and that will carry you into your next chapter,” tribute speaker Nina Head '26 told her fellow graduates. The Seven Hills School's 52nd commencement ceremony took place on May 29 at Cincinnati's Music Hall. Ninety-one graduates gathered in one of the city's most iconic landmarks to celebrate this milestone achievement, reflect on their Upper School years, and look ahead to the opportunities that await them. Throughout the ceremony, speakers shared reflections and advice with the Class of 2026. Student government representatives Alisha Chaudhary '26 and Malcolm Faison '26 delivered the welcome, followed by remarks from Board Chair Lair Kennedy and an introduction by Head of School Matthew Bolton. Tribute speakers included parent Brian Wiles, Upper School English teacher Mark Beyreis, and Class of 2026 graduate Nina Head. This year's commencement speaker was lawyer, writer, political activist, former elected official, and adjunct professor David Pepper.

10 Ethan Avera ’26 and Rhys Ceron ’26 get ready for the Class

of 2026 photo on the iconic Music Hall steps.

Hannah Olowokure ’26 pauses to smile after receiving her diploma.

12 Class of 2026 graduates Laikyn Burton, Jasper Burroughs,

Charlotte Buchholz, and Vivian Brown await their proud moment on stage.

13 Graduates look to the crowd of family and friends during

the ceremony.

*Graduates Ethan Avera and Mikael Choi were the actual recipients of the highest-GPA distinction. We apologize for the error that is reflected in the print version of this publication.

“Plot versus character. It's the character that drives everything," Pepper said. "That's not just true of books. That's true of politics, that's true of life. It's your character. It's not the career you pick or whatever path. It's the heart of you who you are, that is the most important part of your story and the stories of those you love.”

The Upper School Chamber Ensemble performed the ballad “Sometimes,” featuring a solo by graduate Lemuel Zyyon '26. Head of Upper School Rick Tate closed the ceremony with a farewell to the graduates. Congratulations to the Class of 2026!

CONGRATULATIONS S E V E N

H I L L S

C L A S S of 2 0 2 6 Samantha Allison

Mikael Choi

Grace Guminey

Graham Maeder

Estelle Rose

Daniela Alper

Siddhant Chunduri

Halsey Ha-Martinez

Nicolas Mayoral

Martha Rubenstein

Calvin Armstrong

Evelyn Cooper

Nina Head

Nora McAndrew

Luke Samaha

Nathan Asfaw

Maya Dant

Evelyn Horner

Brendan McLaughlin

Adam Schaefer

Ethan Avera

Tom DeBlasio

Tyler Imrie

Faith McLennan

Amelia Schnirring

Claire Bachelder

Valarie Deyer

Gitanjali Iyer

Colin McNerney

Avani Shah

Sai Basava

Elliot Domet

Vaughn Iyoha

Siena Motch

Lauren Smith

Jiya Bikhchandani

Sabrina Lee-Donovan

Madeline Jordan

George Mullin

Nell Tlozek

Jon Boehm

Charlie Dubay

Caleb Katz

Aditya Nayak

Felipe Valdivia Chavez

Kennedy Brewer

Amara Duke de

Grace Kennedy

Hannah Olowokure

Rose Vecellio

Thibaut Briquet

Lanerolle

Elizabeth Klocek

Griffin Osher

Maria Voronov

Vivian Brown

Thurmund Ellison

Neal Kohli

Madhav Pabreja

Ila Wall

Charlotte Buchholz

Malcolm Faison

Nikhil Kohli

Audrie Palmer

Isabella Wang

Jasper Burroughs

Maxwell Faison

Eleanor Kohnen

Greg Richardson

Davion Washington

Laikyn Burton

Colin Froehle

Elizabeth Krause

Aiden Riley

Matthew Wiles

Cam Castillo

Lily Plum Gartenlaub

Amara Kulkarni

Noah Ring

Gordon Yu

Rhys Ceron

Miranda Green

Rohan Kulkarni

Miles Rizor

Harrison Zhang

Abhinav Chandra

Paul Gubanich

Margaret Kunkel

Victoria Rodriguez

Lemuel Zyyon

Alisha Chaudhary

Lamari Lewis

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA

CONGRATULATIONS

S E V E N

H I L L S

C LAS S

2026

Continuity and Change: Reflections on the Alumni Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

B Y M AT T H E W B O LT O N, P H.D., H E A D O F S C H O O L

“ TH E C A M P U S I S T R A N S F O R M E D, BUT IT'S STILL MY SCHOOL.”

That's a sentiment I heard again and again at this spring's Reunion Weekend. For alumni returning to celebrate their 10year reunion, buildings such as The Schiff Center, the Field House, and the Middle School are new additions to the campus. The Upper School building, the Taft Early School, and Doherty's Haile Hall are new to those celebrating their 25th or 30th. If we go back 50 years or more, the changes are even more dramatic. Attendees at our Classics Luncheon shared memories of their time at Miss Doherty's College Preparatory School (CPS), Mrs. Lotspeich's School, or The Hillsdale School. The names, the buildings, and the people themselves have changed over time, but Seven Hills retains a culture and identity that resonate with alums of all eras.

as the double helix of continuity and

Perhaps the clearest example of

change. Unifying our campus, culture,

continuity and change lies in the profound

and community and enacting our new

and lasting effect that the classroom

strategic plan each involve a great deal of

experience has on alums of all ages. At

change. Yet these changes are rooted in

the Classics Luncheon, alums from the

our school's "cultural DNA" — in values

Class of 1976 and earlier connected with

and practices that have always been

members of the Class of 2026. Although

central to our mission. In changing, we

they had different teachers, peers, and

are becoming more fully ourselves. I

classes, our alums and seniors seem to

think of how Mrs. Lotspeich's passion for

have learned so many of the same lessons

learning in nature and the bucolic setting

during their time at Seven Hills: how to

of the Doherty Campus came together

collaborate and connect with others, how

to inspire our design of the new Doherty

to become independent learners, how to

Lotspeich Lower School as a green and welcoming "campus within a campus." Learning in nature is not a trend that we are chasing, but an aspect of our heritage that we are celebrating. I saw another example of this dynamic at the art show that the school hosted on the evening of Reunion Weekend. Works by distinguished alumni were hung alongside artwork created by our current students. Seeing these works in dialogue with each other was a

So many of my conversations with alumni

testament to the central role that the arts

connect to what I've come to think of

have always played at Seven Hills.

During Reunion Weekend, alumni enjoyed both alumni and current student artwork during the Art Show.

develop their passions, and how to apply their gifts and talents to the needs of their community and world. I loved seeing these Stingers bridge the generations by reflecting on how their time at the school has transformed them as learners and as people.

The Class of 2006, which celebrated its 20th reunion this year, posed for a photo in the courtyard during a Doherty Campus tour. . . . . . . . .

Making these connections with the

some of my former Upper Schoolers who

tells me that one of these young alums

alumni community is one of the great

are now in college or in the workforce,

is their favorite teacher. I love seeing our

gifts of working in a school. I've met so

launching their careers and exploring

alums thriving in the world, living up to

many interesting and inspiring people at

new cities. When I traveled to China this

the potential and promise that we saw in

spring with a group of current Upper

them during their time at Seven Hills.

Schoolers, some young alums who had been international students at Seven Hills went out of their way to connect with Junior Jason Zhou and Jane Haas Friedman L’46 shared stories during the annual Classics Luncheon.

our group in Beijing and Shanghai. Stinger Pride knows no borders!

As we move into our final year of unification, I'm grateful for the support of the alumni community. I remember an encouraging call I received last year, soon after announcing our unification plans, from an alum who had been a student at the time of the 1974 merger

I also have the great

that produced Seven Hills. "We've done

pleasure this year of

this before," she told me, "And we can

working alongside

do it again." I think this was the spirit

several of my former

of Reunion Weekend: a celebration

students who have

of the past, present, and future of our

joined the teaching

remarkable school.

faculty. It's a fullcircle moment when a current student During Reunion Weekend, a group of alums enjoyed lunch in the Red Barn on the Hillsdale Campus.

events like Reunion Weekend and away from school. And as an educator, it's particularly gratifying to reconnect with

Matt Bolton pictured with former students turned faculty Piper Spooner '17, DJ Ross '19, and Riyah Vaughn '21.

alums whom I first knew as students. On our Seven Hills Road Shows in Boston and New York this fall, I spent time with 13

SCHOOL NEWS

KERRYN HINDS IS THE NEW HEAD OF LOWER SCHOOL In February 2026, Head of School Matt Bolton announced Kerryn Hinds as the new Head of Lower School.

Kerryn Hinds

“

inds comes from The Chestnut Hill School in Massachusetts, where she was most recently the Lower School Division Head. She also works as an instructor for Initiatives for Developing Equity & Achievement for Students and was previously the director of diversity, equity, and inclusion for Chestnut Hill. “I am deeply honored and excited to be joining Seven Hills, especially at such a pivotal time,” Hinds said. Hinds will start as the Head of Lotspeich Lower School at the beginning of the 2026-27 school year and will lead the combined Doherty Lotspeich Lower School in 2027-28 and beyond.

“The committee and I were so impressed by Kerryn’s joyful approach to teaching and learning, her commitment to building a sense of community for all members of her school, and her deep knowledge of the developmental needs of Lower School students.” - Matthew Bolton, Ph.D. Head of School

Starting July 2026, Tracy Murch will step into the role of Head of Early School, while she continues to serve as Head of Doherty Lower School through June 2027. She will continue to serve as Head of Early School in 2027-28 and beyond. “The committee and I were so impressed by Kerryn’s joyful approach to teaching and learning, her commitment to building

a sense of community for all members of her school, and her deep knowledge of the developmental needs of Lower School students,” Bolton said. “We are thrilled to welcome Kerryn to Seven Hills.” Hinds has a B.A. in early childhood education with a minor in human resources management from Ashford University and an M.Ed. in early childhood education from Gordon College. Before joining Chestnut Hill, Hinds was a pre-kindergarten and kindergarten teacher and the director of equity and belonging at the Fayerweather Street School in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and was the founder, owner, and director of a daycare center. “I look forward to the exciting new chapter for Lotspeich and Doherty, and I am eager to listen, learn, and build strong relationships with students, families, faculty, and alumni. I continue to think about the stories and shared experiences that make Seven Hills so special and the privilege to be a part of such an incredible community,” Hinds said.

SCHOOL NEWS

SEVEN HILLS HONORS LIFERS WITH LUNCH The annual Lifers Lunch honored the 36 members of the Class of 2026, who have spent their entire education at Seven Hills. To be a Lifer, a graduating senior must have started at Seven Hills in at least the first grade. S O M E S T A R T E D A S E A R LY A S PRE-KINDERGARTEN FOR

This year, three Lifers — Rose Vecellio, Thibaut Briquet, and Grace Kennedy — were

2 -Y E A R - O L D S A N D H A V E S P E N T

second-generation Lifers, with one of their

15 Y E A R S AT S E V E N H I L L S.

parents also being a Seven Hills Lifer.

“

“ Seven Hills will always be home, the halls will be home, the people will be home, no matter how long it has been since you were enrolled as a student.” -Jennifer Frey ’99, Alumni Board chair

Director of Development Margo Kirstein thanked the seniors’ parents for entrusting Seven Hills with their children for so long. Each Lifer was gifted a “Seven Hills is special because of parents, families, and students just like you,” Frey said. “I still remember what that last year at Seven Hills felt like and the journey toward

plaque with their school

photo from their first year at Seven Hills and a photo from their senior year.

graduation. One of the most important

things to take away when you graduate is that you don’t really leave Seven Hills. Seven

Jennifer Frey ’99, chair of the Alumni Board

Hills will always be home, the halls will be

and fellow Lifer, encouraged the Lifers to

home, the people will be home, no matter

cherish the sense of community and value of

how long it has been since you were enrolled

what they experienced during their time at

as a student.”

Seven Hills. 4

1. Lifers and their parents admire the plaque with their school photo from their first year at Seven Hills and a photo from their senior year. 2. Jennifer Frey ’99, chair of the Alumni Board and fellow Lifer, addresses students. 3. Lifers Grace Kennedy, Thibaut Briquet, and Rose Vecellio take a photo with their parents, who are also Seven Hills Lifers. 4. The 36 Seven Hills Lifers in the Class of 2026 gather for a group photo with their parents during the annual Lifers Lunch.

: y r e v o c s di E

ng Ho w a g e L e a r n i Mu l t i nce Fu e l s n f o r S c i e o Pa s s i e n H i l l s v e at S

A R LY I N M AY, T H E S E V E N H I L L S

COMMUNITY CAME TOGETHER FOR THE INAUGURAL S C I E N C E S P E C T A C U L A R , A C E L E B R AT I O N O F C U R I O S I T Y, D I S C O V E R Y, A N D C O L L A B O R AT I O N

SCIENCE

ACROSS EVERY DIVISION.

Throughout the Hillsdale Campus, Middle and Upper School students guided Early and Lower School students through hands-on scientific experiences that transformed hallways, classrooms, and outdoor spaces into living laboratories. Eighth graders helped Lower Schoolers study the DNA of strawberries. Upper Schoolers guided younger students and their families through a nature walk. Lower School students created nature play activities for Seven Hills’ youngest students. What students may not have realized was that they were practicing a learning

philosophy championed by renowned physicist and educator Richard Feynman — “teach it to a child” — something the Middle School uses daily. The idea is that to learn something new, a person should try and explain the topic with simple, jargon-free language in a way a child could understand. The person then turns their explanation into a narrative that connects to familiar concepts. That approach makes multiage learning a natural fit for science education at Seven Hills. When older students teach younger ones, both groups benefit: younger students experience science through excitement and accessibility, while older students deepen their own understanding by translating complex concepts into clear, meaningful explanations. Across all divisions, science education at Seven Hills centers on a phenomena-

based curriculum that encourages students to investigate the world around them in age-appropriate ways. Often, the most meaningful scientific discoveries begin with simple moments of curiosity. Opportunities for science learning can often form organically for the youngest students. A question about an animal in a book or picking up a leaf while on a walk can be an enriching learning opportunity. For Doherty kindergartners in Robin Taylor-Fabe’s science class, it was an animal stealing their pumpkin seeds. During their lesson on plant needs, the students planted pumpkin seeds on campus. But an animal kept eating the seedlings.

“So, we set up a trail camera to capture the theft, and that turned into its own lesson about our local ecosystem,” Taylor-Fabe said. The students themselves used Feynman’s idea of making connections to familiar concepts on the bus ride during a non-sciencerelated field trip. The second graders began excitedly shouting for Taylor-Fabe because they had seen a retention wall. She had just taught them about man-made and natural solutions to erosion. “It would sound boring to an outside observer, but for them it was exciting to be able to make reallife connections to what they were learning in class,” she said.

Seventh-grade students researched and designed their own solar system books and then read them to Lower School students.

As our students grow, so do the vast opportunities for independent exploration. For Doherty’s Green Team, the environmental club for Unit III students, an opportunity came about through the Ohio River Foundation’s Mussels in the Classroom program. The Green Team hosted and cared for five freshwater mussels in the Doherty library for a two-week stay. Evan Banzhof, from the Ohio River Foundation, taught the Green Team about the freshwater mussels and how they help local waterways, like the Ohio River. Green Team members learned how to safely handle and feed the mussels,

The Doherty Green Team hosted and cared for five fresh-water mussels from the Ohio River Foundation’s Mussels in the Classroom program.

“

“. . . for [the students] it was exciting to be able to make real-life connections to what they were learning in class. ” - Science teacher Robin Taylor-Fabe ’03

tracked their daily movements, and made independent observations. They later created informational videos to teach pre-kindergarten students what they had learned. By Middle School, scientific inquiry becomes increasingly sophisticated. Students learn to conduct complex investigations while managing risk responsibly in laboratory settings. Science tables transition from wood to chemical-resistant matter, and rooms have fume hoods and ventilation systems to manage flames. And the ideas become more complex. Students deepen their understanding of electricity and learn how the organization of elements on the Periodic Table can help them understand the universe. The opportunities for multiage learning continue. Each year, the seventh-grade students research and design their own books about the solar system, focusing on a planet of their choice. They could choose to

A seventh grader reads the solar system book that she authored to two Lower School students.

“

center the book on the planet itself or use it as a backdrop for their story. After they present their books to their classmates, the seventh graders travel to Doherty and Lotspeich to read their books to kindergartners and first graders. The experience requires more than simply reading aloud. Students must explain scientific concepts clearly, answer unexpected questions, and adapt their communication to younger audiences. Eighth-grade students put their understanding of how molecules interact to the test by studying dry ice and observing how it differs from water. The Upper School program builds on the foundations created by the Lower and Middle programs, guiding students into more rigorous and nuanced exploration. “We are committed to cultivating independent learners who are genuinely curious about the world around them,” Chair of the science

Even in advanced science classrooms, however, moments of awe remain central to the experience. “With sophomores, one of the most rewarding moments comes early watching students encounter their first unexpected chemical reaction and hearing them audibly gasp, ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh,’ marking the beginning of genuine scientific curiosity,” Torline said. “By the second semester, that wonder evolves into precision.” For Taylor-Fabe, teaching science is about creating a sense of awe and insight for the students. “I hope [the students] can feel a sense of wonder, excitement, and an understanding that they have

Students in Robin Taylor-Fabe’s science class observed and sketched clouds outdoors before conducting a cloud demonstration in the classroom.

“I hope [the students] can feel a sense of wonder, excitement, and an understanding that they have the capacity to understand the world around them, no matter how daunting it may seem at first glance.” - Robin Taylor-Fabe ’03

department and Upper School chemistry teacher Jen Torline said. “We want to help students to think critically and creatively, apply diverse scientific methods to complex problems, and use mathematics as both a tool for reasoning and a language for communication.”

“

e are committed to cultivating independent learners who are genuinely curious about the world around them. - Jen Torline

the capacity to understand the world around them, no matter how daunting it may seem at first glance,” Taylor-Fabe said.

As Torline put it, science is collaborative and multiage learning reflects that and benefits both the younger and older students.

Multiage learning activities provide the students with a sense of what is to come and how they will get to explore the topic in more depth.

“We want younger students to gain a sense of what's possible if they keep learning science, while the older student deepens their own understanding by explaining their knowledge and gets a chance to share their excitement for science,” Torline said.

“They’re seeing how what they learn now will be relevant and useful in the future,” Taylor-Fabe said.

Torline added multiage learning activities show exactly what the Seven Hills science program is designed to build: curiosity, empathy, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility to the broader world. “Events like Science Spectacular make the full arc of a student's scientific growth visible in one room,” Torline said.

“ “Events like Science Spectacular

make the full arc of a student's scientific growth visible in one room.” - Chair of the science department and Upper School chemistry teacher Jen Torline

r a l e c u c n a e t i c c s spe

SCHOOL NEWS

SEVEN HILLS CONGRATULATES NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS Seven Hills continues its tradition of excellence with several students receiving recognition from the National Merit Scholarship program. One student has been named as a recipient, eight were named finalists, and six were named commended scholars.

N A T I O N A L

M E R I T

Congratulations to our scholars!

SCHOL ARSH I P RECI PI ENT

Senior Tyler Imrie received a National Merit college-sponsored award from Vanderbilt University. National Merit Scholarship winners are among a select group of students with high PSAT scores and strong academic records. More than one million high school juniors take the test each year and compete for the scholarships. National Merit announces additional college-sponsored winners in mid-July.

N A T I O N A L

M E R I T

FI NALI STS

N A T I O N A L

The National Merit finalists were seniors Ethan Avera, Jasper Burroughs, Mikael Choi, Tyler Imrie, Madeline Jordan, Rohan Kulkarni, Victoria Rodriguez, and Isabella Wang. This year, all of Seven Hills’ National Merit semifinalists were National Merit finalists.

M E R I T

COM MENDED SCHOL A RS

National Merit Commended Scholars were seniors Rhys Ceron, Sabrina Lee-Donovan, Lily Plum Gartenlaub, Caleb Katz, Meggie Kunkel, and Adam Schaefer.

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual academic competition that honors academically talented U.S. high school students. Students qualify for recognition in the National Merit program with their scores on the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

2 0 2 6 HAUCK SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS The Seven Hills School awarded the 2026 Frederick Hauck Scholarship to eighth grader Henry Liu, sophomores Rushil Jain and Mia Wang, and juniors Sakshum Vij and Avery Wang.

SCHOOL NEWS

30 SENIORS INDUCTED INTO

THE SEVEN HILLS

SCHOLARS SOCIETY

I N N O V E M B E R, 30 M E M B E R S O F T H E C L A S S O F 2026 W E R E I N D U C T E D I N T O

Hauck Scholarship

HENRY LIU

MIA WANG

The Hauck Scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding commitment and achievement in math or science. Recipients are chosen based on their academic achievement in math and science and a demonstrated special interest in math and science outside of the classroom. The award is named after Dr. Frederick A. Hauck, a world-renowned nuclear RUSHIL JAIN scientist and philanthropist. He served on the Atomic Energy Commission and worked closely with Albert Einstein. In addition to his scientific achievements, he was a businessman, explorer, historian, industrialist, metallurgist, nature lover, and humanitarian. Winning students entering grades nine through 12 receive a one-year scholarship applied to next school year’s tuition at Seven Hills’ Upper School.

T H E S E V E N H I L L S S C H O L A R S S O C I E T Y.

The Seven Hills Scholars Society is closely tied to the Seven Hills values and honors students for meeting requirements in GPA, community service hours, class participation, and Challenge Experiences. “We are tremendously proud of you,” Head of School Matt Bolton said at the induction ceremony. “Each of you has accomplished great things during your time at Seven Hills, both inside the classroom and beyond. You are being recognized tonight, not just for your individual achievements, but for the ways you helped build community here at Seven Hills.”

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S to the following members of the Class of 2026 for their induction into the Seven Hills Scholars Society: Samantha Allison, Daniela Alper, Ethan Avera, Claire Bachelder, Jasper Burroughs, Rhys Ceron, Alisha Chaudhary, Mikael Choi, Maya Dant, Valarie Deyer, Elliot Domet, Sabrina LeeDonovan, Malcolm Faison, Colin Froehle, Lily Plum Gartenlaub, Grace Guminey, Nina Head, Tyler Imrie, Gitu Iyer, Caleb Katz, Grace Kennedy, Elizabeth Klocek, Ellie Krause, Meggie Kunkel, Colin McNerney, Hannah Olowokure,

SAKSHUM VIJ

Victoria Rodriguez, Adam Schaefer, Avani Shah, and Harrison Zhang.

Congratulations AVERY WANG

SCHOOL NEWS

TEACHERS ARE THE DIFFERENCE At Seven Hills, our teachers are experts at their craft. They create a welcoming environment for students to test their limits, try new things, and achieve more than they ever thought possible. Together, we are

DOHERT Y PE TEACHER MART Y GERHARDT ’85 Marty Gerhardt ’85 has inspired generations of Doherty students through her enthusiasm and passion for physical fitness. To Gerhardt, PE is an opportunity to introduce a wide variety of activities and games to kids from pre-kindergarten to fifth grade.

THINGS I LEARNED FROM MY STUDENTS . . . Doherty PE Teacher Marty Gerhardt ’85

1. Adapting to changes and circumstances is important

“I want all students to feel

2. Get excited about the little things

comfortable in PE and to want to

3. The importance of laughter

come to class. It is important to

create an inclusive environment,” Gerhardt said. “I try to connect

for her students to find joy in learning. “We often don’t keep score, and I try to focus on fun and effort,” Gerhardt said. “I want all of my students to know that I value their effort and their positive attitudes, that those things matter far more than the outcome of the game.” Gerhardt shared her hope for each student to find an activity they’re passionate about and continue as they grow up and build a healthy lifestyle.

THAN PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES. IT TRANSFORMS SPORTS AND G A M E S I N T O T H E F O U N D AT I O N

“PE class is so much more than physical

F O R L I F E L O N G A C T I V I T Y,

activities,” Gerhardt said. “It transforms

E X E R C I S E , A N D H E A LT H. I T

sports and games into the foundation for

CONNECTS PHYSICAL ACTIVIT Y

with the kids through asking about their

lifelong activity, exercise, and health.

T O D A I LY L I F E A N D E V E N

other interests and activities and build

It connects physical activity to daily life

M E N TA L H E A LT H. ”

relationships with them. And, I want

and even mental health. It teaches

everyone’s voice to be heard and for the

teamwork, goal setting, and stress

students to have choices.”

management. It fosters resilience,

Gerhardt’s love for teaching Lower School students also creates a strong foundation 24

”

“P E C L A S S I S S O M U C H M O R E

fairness, and honesty. And, it creates community through sports.”

~ Doherty PE teacher Marty Gerhardt ’85

SCHOOL NEWS

celebrating our excellent teachers in this magazine installment, which features Doherty PE teacher Marty Gerhardt ’85 and Lotspeich fourth-grade teacher Shane Marsan. LOTSPEICH FOURTH-GRADE TEACHER SHANE MARSAN As a fourth-grade teacher, Shane Marsan frequently assesses the longevity of the skills he teaches his students. “I’ve thought about how quickly the world

THINGS I LEARNED FROM MY STUDENTS . . . Lotspeich Fourth-Grade Teacher Shane Marsan

changes, and how I can instill skills that are time-adaptive,” Marsan said. “For example, instead of teaching grammar, we might focus on understanding what a subject and predicate are. When we’re working on persuasive essays, they’re honing their

1. How important it is to listen 2. Younger kids are capable of accomplishing really difficult things 3. Don’t immediately reject something

executive function skills. Content is the lens for teaching bigger skills.” Marsan also prioritizes agency in education when possible. During Genius Hour,

”

students pick a topic to research and present. Recent topics have included the Great Barrier Reef, the National Hockey League, and “Zootopia.” Because students are able to select their research topic, it also becomes a source of passion and enables them to share a focused well of knowledge with their classmates. “Lower School students have a love of

“I’VE THOUGHT ABOUT HOW Q U I C K LY T H E W O R L D CHANGES, AND HOW I CAN I N S T I L L S K I L L S T H AT A R E T I M E-A D A P T I V E . W H E N W E ’ R E WORKING ON PERSUASIVE E S S AY S , T H E Y ’ R E H O N I N G THEIR EXECUTIVE FUNCTION

learning, and I think there’s an innate joy,”

SKILLS. CONTENT IS

Marsan said. “They love coming to school.”

THE LENS FOR TEACHING BIGGER SKILLS.”

Marsan also shared his appreciation for the support he receives from Seven Hills

~ Lotspeich fourth-grade teacher Shane Marsan

to try different things in the curriculum, especially with Jill Romerill, director of the Enrichment and Summer Programs, and Christina " Teeny" O’Donnell, assistant director of the Enrichment and Summer Programs. “It feels like an enthusiastic ‘yes,’ whenever you have an idea or opportunity to try something new,” Marsan said. “It’s one of the reasons I help with the Summer

Program, because Jill and Teeny always encourage ideas. The administration’s support really comes from the belief in the faculty’s ability to accomplish large goals and that support directly benefits the students.” 25

S E V E N H I L L S B U I LDS ITS F U T U R E . . . . . . OVER THE COURSE OF THE 2025-26 SCHOOL YEAR, THE FUTURE OF A UNIFIED SEVEN HILLS BEGAN TO TAKE VISIBLE SHAPE. THE ADDITION TO THE NELLIE LEAMAN TAFT EARLY SCHOOL WAS COMPLETED WITH A RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY IN MAY. IN APRIL, THE COMMUNIT Y GATHERED TO BREAK GROUND ON THE NEW DOHERT Y LOTSPEICH LOWER SCHOOL. AND DESIGNING THE FUTURE OF THE NEW LOWER SCHOOL PROGRAM IS ALREADY UNDERWAY.

WONDER & CONNECTION: A GLIMPSE AHEAD That vision came into focus during Wonder & Connection, a community event that brought Early and Lower School families together to explore what lies ahead for 2026 and beyond. As HGC construction crews worked on the Early School addition and SHP architects refined plans for the new Lower School, faculty and school leaders shared how the academic program will evolve alongside the physical space. Teachers and specialists from Doherty and Lotspeich highlighted play-based, outdoor, and project-based learning — key pillars of the Strategic Plan 2025–2030: Mind, Heart, Community. Leaders from the Middle and Upper Schools offered a look at the student journey ahead, while fourth- and fifthgrade students closed the program with a toast celebrating what’s to come. In the lobby of The Schiff Center, the conversation continued. Families connected with Upper School seniors, explored curriculum in math and literacy,

1 Renderings of the future Lower School 26 4

including the main entry, the science wing, and the learning stair.

“AT SEVEN HILLS, WE HAVE AN OPPORTUNIT Y TO SHAPE BUILDINGS THAT WILL L ATER SHAPE US. THIS IS PARTICUL ARLY TRUE AS WE DESIGN A NEW CAMPUS WITHIN A CAMPUS FOR OUR YOUNGEST LEARNERS.” ~ Matt Bolton, Head of School

and reflected on the strength of the Seven Hills community. “We are building a physical manifestation of our school’s values and culture,” Bolton said. “One that will serve generations of Stingers and power a world-class Lower School program.”

DESIGNING A SCHOOL WITH STUDENTS AT THE CENTER Set into the wooded north end of the Hillsdale Campus, the new Lower School will create a “campus within a campus,”

2 Head of Doherty Lower School and future Head

of the Early School Tracy Murch leads parents in a teamwork exercise during the January Wonder & Connection event.

designed specifically for Seven Hills’ youngest learners. The building will feature bright, flexible classrooms; dedicated spaces for science, Spanish, and the arts; a library with an outdoor patio; a dining hall with outdoor seating; and expansive outdoor learning environments. It will also be the school’s first LEEDcertified building — and one shaped in part by its future students. Doherty and Lotspeich students worked alongside Upper School architecture interns to collaborate with SHP designers, building models and sharing ideas for what their school could become. “With extreme enthusiasm and creativity, the kids generated ideas ranging from indoor reading tree houses to vegetated rooftops and flexible seating,” said senior Nina Head, one of the interns. Her group imagined a nature trail — complete with a stream and bridge — leading directly to their classroom.

3 Lower School students Luca Weber, Claire

Cassady, and Isobel McClain Pipkins were the emcees for Wonder & Connection.

. . . . B R E A KS G R O U N D O N N E W LOW E R S C H O O L and a Hollywood-style arrival experience.

“The students’ ideas reflected the collaboration and imagination required to design a new space from scratch,” she said.

“This event combines two of my favorite things: school and the movies,” Bolton told the crowd.

Across groups, common themes emerged: spaces for community, environments designed for children, and a strong connection to the outdoors.

Students decorated their own Walk of Fame stars, shared their excitement on camera, and watched the rendering video while enjoying popcorn — celebrating not just a building, but a shared vision.

“Lower Schoolers were some of the first and most important designers of this building,” Bolton said. “What we learned from them is evident throughout the final design.”

For the Upper School interns, the experience embodied the school’s experiential learning program. Using insights gathered from workshops and focus groups, they developed and presented 2D, 3D, and digital classroom concepts to the architects. 3

“The creation of a new space reflects an institution’s values,” Head said, “and the collaboration of an entire community — students, educators, donors, designers, and builders.”

A RED-CARPET REVEAL

Before the first beams are raised, students have already stepped inside their future school — virtually. Kindergarten through fifth-grade students were treated to a red-carpet premiere of the Lower School fly-through rendering video, complete with interviews, photographers,

“T H E C R E AT I O N O F A N E W S PA C E R E F L E C T S A N I N S T I T U T I O N’S VA LU E S A N D T H E C O L L A B O R AT I O N O F A N ENTIRE COMMUNIT Y — S T U D E N T S , E D U C AT O R S , DONORS, DESIGNERS,

A N D B U I L D E R S .” ~ Nina Head, senior and

4 Seniors Sabrina Lee-Donovan, Rose Vecellio, and

Grace Guminey shared their experiences at Seven Hills with Early and Lower School families at the Wonder & Connection event.

intern Freshmen takearchitecture part in their first Day of Service.

5 Upper School senior Nina Head (far left) leads

Doherty and Lotspeich Lower School students as they work on a model of their dream class in a session with the SHP architects.

2733

S E V E N H I L L S B U I LDS ITS F U T U R E , B R E A K S G R O U N D O N N E W LOWER SCHOOL, c o n t i n u e d

“FOR MANY YEARS, LOTSPEICH AND D O H E R T Y H AV E E A C H BEEN PLACES OF DEEP L E A R N I N G , F R I E N D S H I P, A N D T R A D I T I O N . T O D AY, WE BRING THOSE COMMUNITIES TOGETHER INTO ONE NEW HOME.” ~ Lair Kennedy, chair of the Board of Trustees

BREAKING GROUND, BUILDING COMMUNITY

of the Taft Early School to cut a navy blue ribbon that stretched across the entire building.

That vision became tangible on April 2, when Seven Hills officially broke ground on the new Lower School. “Breaking ground is a critical step in unifying our campus, culture, and community,” Bolton said. Board of Trustees Chair Lair Kennedy reflected on the journey that made the moment possible, thanking 6 former Head of School Chris Garten for his early vision, Bolton for his leadership, and the many donors who helped bring the project to life. “For many years, Lotspeich and Doherty have each been places of deep learning, friendship, and tradition,” Kennedy said. “Today, we bring those communities together into one new home.” Students are already imagining what that home will mean. Lotspeich third grader 6

A Lotspeich student member of the press interviews her classmates during the red-carpet premiere.

12 Lotspeich third grader Piper Gilligan

tells the crowd at the groundbreaking about her excitement for the new Lower School.

Piper Gilligan looks forward to meeting new classmates and strengthening connections formed through sports and shared experiences. “I’m excited to create a larger community,” she said. Doherty third grader Grant Cassady is eager for both the friendships and the learning opportunities ahead. “With so many students, everyone will have a friend, and nobody will feel left out,” he said. “And I’m excited to learn about the solar panels in science class.”

GIANT RIBBON, TINY SCISSORS On the second Saturday in May, our littlest learners and their families lined the front

7 Students cheer at the groundbreaking

ceremony for the new Lower School building, as their classmates shoveled the dirt high into the air.

13 Doherty Unit II students walk in on

the red carpet along with teacher Sherri Linville for the premiere.

Tracy Murch, Head of the Doherty Lower School and future Head of the Early School, invited two student volunteers to lead the countdown as pre-kindergartners and their families stood ready with kid-sized scissors in hand. After the ceremony, families toured the new addition, participated in activities led by Early School teachers, and wrote their hopes and dreams for the future on ribbons. In many ways, the event itself captured exactly that — a community’s hopes and dreams for the future — in a morning filled with laughter, joy, and an endless supply of bubbles.

LOOKING AHEAD Construction will continue throughout the 2026-27 school year, but the foundation of the new Lower School is already in place — built on collaboration, imagination, and a shared commitment to the future. At Seven Hills, the work of shaping a building is, in many ways, the work of shaping a community.

Early School students use kid-sized scissors to cut the ribbon for the Taft Early School addition.

9 Lower school students pose at the

red-carpet premiere.

10 Pre-k student Evie blows bubbles at the

ribbon-cutting ceremony.

14 Head of School Matt Bolton (center),

administrators, and trustees break ground on the Doherty Lotspeich Lower School.

15 Student reporters and photographers

interviewed their classmates at the premiere of the Doherty Lotspeich Lower School flythrough rendering video.

16 11

Head of Doherty and Head of Early School Tracy Murch leads students in a countdown for the ribbon-cutting.

Students from each grade from Doherty and Lotspeich break ground on the new Lower School building.

SCHOOL NEWS

SEVEN HILLS ON THE GO!

Three International Trips in the World Language Department The Upper School world language department’s abroad trips are a way to teach Seven Hills students about the world so they can truly become global citizens. During the 2025-26 school year, students studying Chinese traveled to China, Latin students visited Italy, and Spanish students explored Spain during May Term.

After saying goodbye to their host families and new friends, the Upper Schoolers traveled to Madrid and Segovia, where they explored castles, museums, markets, and religious sites. The students also attended various local restaurants, took an introductory flamenco class, and went on a tour of the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas — the largest bullfighting ring in Spain.

TOURING CHINA Upper School Chinese teachers Mia Wu and Nanyue Zhu, and Head of School Matt Bolton accompanied the 22 Upper Schoolers as they spent 11 days in China.

VISITING SPAIN

The students visited monuments, national museums, and various villages, while also touring temples and enjoying local cuisine.

Fifteen Upper School students traveled to Spain for an abroad trip, which included a week-long exchange at Askartza Claret, a school in Bilbao.

“Students had a blast enjoying the delicious food, beautiful scenery, and talking to locals. They definitely used the Chinese skills they have learned in class,” Wu said.

Students stayed with host families, attended classes at the high school, and went on tours of the city.

“It’s so rewarding to see the students interact in a different country and thrive by using their language skills,” said Teresa Bardon, Spanish teacher and world language department chair.

SCHOOL NEWS

“All their hard work in the classroom, studying language and culture, comes to fruition outside the classroom when students experience interacting with Spainards, visiting different places, and acclimating to the cultures. That’s what it means to succeed as a global citizen.”

EXPLORING ITALY While in Italy, 27 Upper School students received a private tour of Naples and the Amalfi Coast, visited Mount Vesuvius, toured a local cheese factory and the Parco Archeologico di Paestum, and ate all kinds of incredible food. “Seeing the ruins of Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvius, the Greek colony of Paestum, as well as the sites and

monuments of Rome, brings the ancient world to life for our Latin students,” Upper School Latin teacher Katie Swinford said. “We've planned a deeply immersive trip to engage our students' language abilities and historical knowledge, and it's always so much fun.”

BY D E T

A N A LU

DI R ECTED BY STUDENTS:

“ TH E LARAM I E PROJECT” • • • • • •

T W E N T Y-S I X Y E A R S A F T E R I T S C OC R E AT I O N B Y S E V E N H I L L S L I F E R A N D Y PA R I S ’89, “ T H E L A R A M I E P R O J E C T ” — A P L AY C H R O N I C L I N G T H E M U R D E R O F 22-Y E A R-O L D

Paris was an original member of the Tectonic Theater Project and co-creator of “The Laramie Project.”

M AT T H E W S H E PA R D I N L A R A M I E ,

Paris explained that the theater

W Y O M I N G — WA S C H O S E N B Y T H E

company had at the time just recently

UPPER SCHOOL MASTERCLASS

finished their wildly successful original

I N T H E AT E R S T U D E N T S

production, “Gross Indecency: The

FOR THEIR WINTER

Three Trials of Oscar Wilde,” and used

P R O D U C T I O N.

the profits from the show to travel to

In the late 1990s,

Laramie.

“

“Co-directing is a challenge, for sure, but it is also a great opportunity to learn about real collaboration.” ~ Marc Raia, Upper School theater teacher

the Tectonic

“[What happened in Laramie,] it hit

Theater Project

home very hard,” Paris said. “The

in New York

conversation around the country was

City traveled to

unsatisfactory. It was at the beginning

Laramie, Wyoming,

of news competing for viewers. We saw

utilizes inside and outside the theater.

to interview

[Laramie] as a microcosm of the country

“Patty had a very strong set of values,”

residents about Shepard’s 1998 murder and how the tragedy affected the town. The interview transcripts were then transformed into “The Laramie Project,” which presents a layered and deeply emotional portrait of a community’s reaction to the hate crime/murder of a young gay man in Laramie, Wyoming.

The play premiered in 2000.

at the time.” When Paris heard current Seven Hills students were producing the play almost 30 years later, he was grateful. “Whenever someone performs this play, I feel a sense of gratitude,” Paris shared. “For me, it brought back a lot of memories and what it means to be part of that community.”

Learning from the famous Seven Hills theater teacher Patty Flannigan gave Paris incredible transferable skills he still

Paris said. “Whether you were going into professional theater or something else, Patty set the bar high. You were expected to be thoughtful, collaborative, considerate, and supportive of others. She was an incredible artist, and helped me not to pigeon-hole myself as I navigated my career. The skills I learned from Patty fed my future.”

SCHOOL NEWS - ARTS

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Inside The Schiff Center’s theater

“

classroom, juniors Javier Beatty and Rory Bauman, and senior Vivian Brown, led the Masterclass in Theater students as the production’s three student directors to bring this documentary-style play to life. The trio created an effective rehearsal

“The skills I learned from Patty [Flannigan] fed my future.” ~ Andy Paris ’89

calendar, prepared for each rehearsal,

blocked the complete script (setting the movement and staging), ran each rehearsal, and ensured the production was ready on time. “Co-directing is a challenge, for sure, but it is also a great opportunity to learn about real collaboration — and communication — and learning that the heart or spine of a great play is far more important than any one person’s ‘vision,’ ” Marc Raia, Upper School theater teacher, said. “Rory, Javier, and Vivian did a really powerful job as co-directors; they really tapped into the heart of ‘The Laramie Project’ and communicated that heart to each audience who experienced it.” Putting on a show involves a lot of thinking in reverse, Raia explained. “You start with the end product, meaning when the performances are. From there

you create the schedules, blocking,

Ultimately, the Masterclass in Theater

rehearsals, anything you need. While I’m

production of “The Laramie Project” served

here to guide or assist if they need me,

as a powerful testament to the timeless

that rarely happens. The goal is for the

nature of the play and the enduring legacy

student directors to run everything and

of Seven Hills theater instruction —

gain as much experience as possible,”

connecting an alum’s professional success

Raia said.

with the potent, student-led artistry of the current generation.

SCHOOL NEWS

MIRIAM TITCOMB MEMORIAL FUND

Grants for Enrichment

ince 1978, the Miriam Titcomb Fund, an endowed enrichment

fund established by alumni, has made it possible for more than 100 Seven Hills faculty and staff to have meaningful travel and study experiences. These adventures are personally and professionally

inspiring for our faculty and staff. Their increased scholarship and enthusiasm enrich the entire school community. We are pleased to share the stories of grant recipients John Rising, Amaris White, and Robin Wilson. MIDDLE & UPPER SCHOOL I N S T R U M E N TA L M U S I C TEACHER JOHN RISING, 2025 R E C I P I E N T

Rising and his wife traveled through

Rising said. “I based a good chunk of

Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee

my itinerary on stories from the book,

John Rising received a Titcomb grant

to visit major blues and rock & roll

‘Sam Phillips: The Man Who Invented

historical sites.

Rock and Roll,’ which was given to

“I am a huge 20th-century American

me by Brett Miller ’18 when he was in

for his experience, "Roots of Blues and Rock & Roll Road Trip: Nashville, Muscle Shoals, Clarksdale, and Memphis!” 34

music history nerd, and this trip was

Middle School.”

about visiting some of the hot spots,”

Rising shared that throughout his trip, he was able to visit about two museums

SCHOOL NEWS

UPPER SCHOOL HISTORY

plant usage in Immokalee, Florida,”

TEACHER AND LEARNING

White said. “Learning from everyday

SPECIALIST AMARIS

Black people with no official titles as

WHITE, 2025 RECIPIENT

‘herbalists’ but people who are using

Amaris White received a Titcomb grant for her experience, "Reclaiming the Roots: Exploring Black Healing

ancestral knowledge to use ocean saltwater, grow crops, and harvest them to make food for consumption, medicines, and tinctures was one of the best points of my time in Florida.” The final part of White’s Titcomb trip occurred over Spring Break 2026, when she traveled to Houston, Texas, and Savannah, Georgia, to explore Black healing and herbalist culture in those two cities. continued on page 36

and/or two recording studios a day.

Traditions in New Orleans, the

“The biggest takeaways from this

Everglades, Houston, and Savannah.”

adventure were that we had tons of fun, had lots of cool live musical experiences, and I was personally able to confirm that although much of our nation’s history is tragic, the music that grew from it tells a powerful story — one of resilience, cultural blending, and creative expression born from hardship,” Rising said.

White’s research journey took her into the heart of Black healing traditions, exploring the historical and cultural practices of herbalism and wellness that have sustained Black communities in the United States. “l spent time planting gardens and learning about herbalism and 35

SCHOOL NEWS

MIRIAM TITCOMB MEMORIAL FUND

Grants for Enrichment, continued . . . LOTSPEICH LOWER SCHOOL MUSIC TEACHER R O B I N W I L S O N , 2 02 5 RECIPIENT Robin Wilson received a Titcomb grant for her experience, “An Alaskan Adventure: A Trip of a Lifetime.” In July 2025, Wilson spent two weeks exploring Alaska. One week, she sailed on a Norwegian cruise; the other, she participated in a land tour. Wilson was able to visit many spots during her trip including Whittier, Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, Glacier Bay National Park, Fairbanks, and more. “My Alaskan adventure had many highlights, such as hiking through the breathtaking Tongass National Forest from several small towns;

seeing towering, beautiful trees and untouched wilderness; spotting wildlife, including bald eagles and bears; and falling in love with the vibrant purple fireweed blooming everywhere,” Wilson said. Seeing Alaska’s natural wonders left Wilson in awe of its beauty.

“This truly was a trip of a lifetime — one that brought healing, perspective, and renewed energy,” Wilson said.

S . .

EVE

N HILL

S .

3 9 th A N N U A L

. .

FOR

LUNCH

BOOKS FOR LUNCH AUTHOR ARIEL LAWHON ENGAGED UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS, PARENTS, ALUMNI, AND FRIENDS OF SEVEN HILLS WITH HER PERSONAL REFLECTIONS, CREATIVE PROCESS, AND WITTY DISCOURSE. ARIEL LAWHON

On Feb. 6, the New York Times bestselling author met with Upper School students at the Hillsdale Campus in the morning to discuss her writing process and inspiration for her works. After her keynote speech, Lawhon invited students to ask questions. The Upper Schoolers asked about how she develops stories from ideas and why she loves writing. Later in the day, Lawhon met with parents, alumni, and friends of Seven Hills at the annual Books for Lunch, held at The Lightwell at North by Hotel Covington. The mid-day snowfall added to the day’s festivities, as attendees drove across the frozen Ohio River to arrive at the venue. During the gathering, Lawhon discussed how she used her personal experiences to better understand the characters she was writing, and iterated how anyone can become a writer given they spend time researching and honing their skills. Her anecdotes were reflected in her latest and award-winning novel, “The Frozen River,” inspired by the life and diary of Martha Ballard, a renowned 18th-century

midwife who investigates a shocking murder that unhinges her small community. Through Lawhon’s deft portrayal of Ballard, she brought to life a brave and compassionate unsung heroine who refused to accept anything less than justice on behalf of those no one else would protect. A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated Books for Lunch co-chairs, Elizabeth Stock and Ann Thompson, along with the entire planning committee whose hard work and commitment made this event a success.

Lawhon with BFL planning committee and English teacher Nate Gleiner.

Lawhon with Upper School students in the Young Family Library.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 BFL SPONSORS! Presenting Sponsor Elizabeth Warner & Laurent Huguenin Bestseller Anonymous Table Host Nancy & Jay Clark Amanda van Rooyen

First Draft Anonymous Sue & Steve Baggott Michelle Gardner Christa & Mark McAndrew Liz & Chris Stock Ann & Andy Thompson

Friends Kristin & Matt Bramlage ’95 Lindsay & Colin Cassady Amber Hassan Susan Marrs Elizabeth Sittenfeld

SCHOOL NEWS

CHALLENGE EXPERIENCES

Three Stories of Discovery Each Upper School student designs an original Challenge Experience that helps define their interest, explore their passions, and stretches them beyond their comfort zones. Challenge Experiences embody the spirit of Seven Hills’ dedication to experiential learning.

Restoring a Vintage Car Junior FREDDIE MURRER Experience Description: Freddie restored a 1950 Crosley Super Sport. Experience Process: Crosley cars were designed and built in Cincinnati and the Cincinnati Museum Center has two of them on display. Freddie remembered seeing them as a kid and thinking they were cool.

information on how to restore them to

best-in-class award. He is also considering

factory condition. Freddie had to find

the automotive restoration program at

and search through old photos to look for

McPherson College in Kansas, the only

tiny details. Once he did, he and his dad

bachelor’s degree program in restoration

restored the engine, got new tires, painted

technology in the country.

the exterior, and sewed the interior.

fix an old car, but I would love to do another

“The way I wanted to do the project was

one. It is definitely a lot of work, but if you

to restore the car exactly how it came

do the hard work, it pays off.”

from the factory, which is how a lot of classic cars are restored,” Freddie said.

Concentration in Event Planning Senior JIYA BIKHCHANDANI

“But Crosleys are so cheap, almost no one does that.” When released

Experience Description: Jiya earned

in the 1950s,

a Concentration in event planning.

Crosleys

Seven Hills students can graduate with a

were seen as

Concentration for a topic they study on a

affordable, mass market sports cars. So unlike other classic

“Pretty much everything on the car

cars, it was

we redid,” he said.

not easy

Since finishing the car,

to find

Freddie has taken it to multiple car shows in the area and earned a

Freddie Murrer

Freddie: “I learned that it is a lot of work to

CHALLENGE EXPERIENCES ARE A REQUIREMENT FOR ALL UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS. EACH STUDENT DESIGNS AN ORIGINAL PROJECT THAT HELPS DEFINE THEIR INTERESTS AND

SCHOOL NEWS

deeper level. For Jiya’s in event planning, she

by a Seven Hills family. While there,

took the Upper School’s entrepreneurship

she worked on two weddings from

class, did independent research, and worked

start to finish, learning about

with event coordinators at two local venues.

every part of the planning

Experience Process: Jiya’s Concentration

phase and being there on the day.

in event planning specifically focused on weddings. She grew up watching Bollywood

Throughout the

movies and traveling to India for family

process, Jiya said she

weddings.

learned to advocate

Vikasni Bandinani

for herself while

“It is deeply ingrained in my culture. Weddings

working with a

in general are a huge part of India and Indian

team of all adults So, she began turning to social media,

and gained

like Pinterest, scrolling through content

insight to how

about weddings, making boards, and

important every

brainstorming things she would do if she

member of a

were to plan a wedding.

venue’s staff

When she heard about the Challenge

Jiya Bikhchandani

can be.

Experience freshmen year, the first idea that popped into her head was to plan a wedding. “Then I thought more practically because what couple is going to let a 14-year-old culture,” Jiya said. “Our weddings are actually week-long festivities, not just one day.” Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jiya was not able to travel to India for almost five years and felt deprived of going to Indian weddings.

plan their wedding?” Jiya said. “I had to get a little creative and figure out what I could do and what steps I could take.” Jiya first started working with the Delta

“I definitely gained a much bigger

Hotels in Sharonville that specialize in

appreciation for the detailed aspects of

hosting Indian weddings and events.

what goes into the behind the scenes

STRETCHES THEM BEYOND THEIR COMFORT ZONES. PERSONAL CHALLENGE EMBODIES THE SPIRIT OF SEVEN HILLS’ DEDICATION TO EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING.

She learned about

of an event,” Jiya said. “Even if it is a

working with vendors

one-day event, there is so much planning

and clients and giving

that goes into making sure everything is

venue tours. She

smooth.”

then began working with The Palamar, an event space owned

Jiya: “Anyone in the future who is trying to do something with a Challenge Experience that is a little more out of continued on page 40 39

SCHOOL NEWS

CHALLENGE EXPERIENCES , Continued . . .

Three Stories of Discovery the box or something that people haven’t done, definitely reach out to Seven Hills families. Network within the Seven Hills community first, because they know the community and they are going to be more likely to help you out.”

Learning to Solo in an Airplane Senior L A U R E N S M I T H

Annalise Wabler

Experience Description: Lauren learned how to fly a single engine airplane. Experience Process: After learning from her dad the summer before her sophomore year that he once wanted to join the Air Force, Lauren began to consider it for herself. “I have always wanted to go into the military in some regard so I thought this might be an interesting way to get to the Air Force,” Lauren said. Lauren signed up for lessons at Lunken Airport to learn to fly a DA-20, a standard single engine airplane. After passing a medical examination, she began ground lessons with an instructor, learning aerodynamics and how to plot a flight path.

Lauren Smith Freddie Murrer

In flight lessons, she learned how

put my mind to it. I have always struggled

to control the plane, how to do

with confidence problems, and I think

certain maneuvers, and how to

this really helped me get over that. I can

handle emergency situations. She

fly a plane. I can just about do anything if

said answering air traffic control calls

I put the time, effort, and concentration

was one of the biggest challenges as

into it.”

she had to juggle listening to fasttalking controllers through a static radio while knowing how to respond in situations she never experienced before all while flying a plane. Once she began learning to fly, Lauren realized she really liked it and is planning to join the Air Force ROTC when she starts at The Ohio State University in the fall of 2026. Lauren: “The biggest thing I learned is that I can in a way do anything if I

SCHOOL NEWS

MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS WIN 325 SCHOLASTIC AWARDS, THREE MEDALS

how to submit pieces to the competition. As

THE REGIONAL SCHOL ASTIC

a thank you to the students who submitted,

ART AND WRITING AWARDS

the Upper School English department hosted

RECOGNIZED 167 SEVEN HILLS

a pizza party in the Hillsdale Commons.

MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL

“I am so proud to teach such creative

STUDENTS WITH 325 AWARDS

students who push themselves and their

FOR WRITING AND ARTWORK.

ideas within the thesis-bound essay, but also

The Scholastic Arts and Writing

beyond the traditional structures of academia

Competition is one of the oldest and largest In the writing competition, Seven Hills students won 66 Gold Keys and 105 Silver Keys across various writing categories, including poetry, critical essay, flash fiction,

“

student competitions in the nation.

out-of-the-box ideas students

Silver and Gold Keys enter them into

compose here, which have been

all categories. Seven Hills earned three medals this year. Junior Katie Hendricks won a Gold Medal and senior Grace Guminey and sophomore Mia Wang won Silver Medals.

teacher Laura Clemens said she was not surprised by their achievement. “Our students are extremely talented writers who have lots of opportunities within our curriculum to build their skills and express

articles for the student newspaper,” said 2

nurtured throughout their education by countless educators.”

- Shauna Whelan, Upper School English and journalism and design teacher

Shauna Whelan, Upper School English and

Fourteen of the awards were earned by eighth graders, and eighth grade English

through personal essays, poems, novels, and

“I am continually impressed by the

short story, and personal essay. consideration for the national awards, across

journalism and design teacher. won three Gold Keys for essays. Junior Jackie Katuska and senior Miles Rizor both earned Gold Keys for essays in consecutive years. Junior Jason Zhou earned seven essay recognitions and Avery Wang earned eight,

their creativity,” Clemens said.

setting a new school record.

Seven Hills won the most awards of the

Over the last five years, Seven Hills has

In the arts competition, 13 Middle and Upper School students won seven Gold Keys and five Silver Keys. Nine students earned keys in both the writing and arts competitions. “I am continually impressed by the outof-the-box ideas students compose here, which have been nurtured throughout their education by countless educators. The

schools that compete in the southern Ohio,

earned more than 1,000 awards.

eastern Indiana, and Northern Kentucky

Upper School’s The Palette and The Pen club

program has never been more apparent,”

region. Mia Wang earned six Gold Keys. Junior

hosted multiple informational meetings about

Whelan said.

1. Students attend a pizza party in the Hillsdale Commons as a thank you from the English department for submitting their work to the competition.

2. Upper Schoolers attend an informational meeting hosted by The Palette and The Pen club about how to submit pieces to the competition.

strength of Seven Hills’ students and writing

Avery Wang and sophomore Aiden Yang both

SCHOOL NEWS

EMPOWERING STUDENT AGENCY THROUGH SERVICE AND EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

HOLDING A TASTE TEST BETWEEN CL ASSES TO HELP A LOCAL COFFEE

selected a nonprofit after months of careful research and gave persuasive

S H O P P I C K N E W F L AV O R S .

presentations to a panel with the goal of

LEARNING THE INS AND OUTS

getting a $1,500 grant from Magnified

O F C R E AT I N G A S TA R T-U P.

Giving awarded to their nonprofit.

U N D E R S TA N D I N G T H E NE E D S O F T H O S E W I T H I N T H E G R E AT E R

The students conducted site visits and

C INCINNATI AREA. IN T HE U PPE R

interviewed members of each organization

S C H O O L’S E X P E R I E N T I A L A N D

to learn about their funding structure. They

SERVICE LEARNING CL ASSES,

were asked to consider how the funds

STUDENTS ENGAGE WITH REAL

would be used, if the organization’s goal is

BUSINESSES AND REAL CHALLENGES

charity or justice, and explain why they

IN OUR OWN COM M U N IT Y.

chose their organization over similar ones

“Experiential learning courses help students become more interesting people with stories that add richness and texture to transcripts,” Director of Experiential Learning Karen Glum said. The number of courses has grown recently and varies year-by-year, but as Glum said, the courses all share the core elements of developing widely transferable skills, focusing on real-world problems, reflecting on experiences, and having evaluation through authentic assessments. “Students who engage in experiential learning further develop self- and community-awareness and begin to envision an identity in the community beyond that of a ‘student,’” Glum said.

In teams of two or three, the students

in the area. As she explained it to the students at an all-school meeting in February, experiential and service learning classes are about learning by doing, working on real-world issues, and engaging with real partners. The courses’ core elements were on display during that meeting as seniors Evie Cooper and Laikyn Burton presented a $1,500 grant check on behalf of Magnified Giving to the Life Learning Center, a Covingtonbased organization that helps at-risk adults through education, care, and life skills. During the fall semester, Cooper and Burton were among the students who took the new philanthropy class called $1,000 and Change, taught by Glum.

“

“Students who engage in experiential learning further develop selfand community-awareness, and begin to envision an identity in the community beyond that of a ‘student.’” ~Director of Experiential Learning Karen Glum

SCHOOL NEWS

“These courses empower students to have agency and develop highly transferable skills that are applicable throughout one’s professional and personal lives,” Glum said. Creating transferable skills was a main focus for the Leadership in Action class, taught by history teacher and Dean of Students Dan Polifka.

“One of the big ideas in our class is that we have a very stereotypical idea of what leadership is, and it involves a charismatic person talking in front of others,” he said. Through unpacking and challenging that idea, Polifka’s class attended an improv workshop at

2 4

Improv Cincinnati and explored how the

During the 2026-27 school year, students

“Each experiential learning course

will have the opportunity to develop a guide

offers something unique,” Glum said.

for how Seven Hills should use Al in a new

“In general, I hope students will come

AI course, redesign shared spaces in the

away with an affinity for exploration,

Upper School through a human-centered

engagement, and reflection; confidence

design course, and work alongside therapists

in their abilities; and a deeper

and teachers helping neurodivergent

connection to the sense of place in their

learners through an off-campus immersion

communities.”

program with the Linden Grove School.

“yes … and” concept of improv can be applied to leadership. “The best leaders need to listen to others to understand their needs and how they can support,” Polifka said. As the experiential learning course offerings continue to grow, students will have more opportunities to learn life-long transferable

skills in unique and new ways. 1. The entrepreneurship class visited Clovernook Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired as they prepared to help them develop marketing strategies and promotional campaigns. 2. Seniors Laikyn Burton and Evie Cooper earned a $1,500 grant check for Life Learning Center, a

nonprofit they advocated for in the new philanthropy class. 3. Upper entrepreneurship students worked with Lotspeich third graders to create logos and slogans for the products they sold at their market day.

4. The Leadership in Action class attended an improv class at Improv Cincinnati and learned how improv skills can transfer to leadership. 5. Students filled out surveys for the entrepreneurship class while taking part in their taste test held for a local coffee shop. 43

SCHOOL NEWS - SPORTS

WINTER

WINTER SPORTS HONORS Talented teams, competitive players, and great matchups There were several highlights of the Seven Hills winter sports season. Some Stingers traveled to state and national tournaments, went deep into the postseason, and set new school records. Congratulations to our athletes and coaches who made the winter 2025-26 sports season successful! The co-ed varsity swim team had a fantastic season, qualifying for the state tournament with junior Danny Beyerbach and sophomore Marissa McNerney being state runners-up. The boys team finished 17th overall at the state tournament. Beyerbach took second in the 200 freestyle and third in the 50 freestyle. Senior Colin McNerney finished sixth in the 500 freestyle. For the girls, Marissa McNerney finished second in the 200 individual medley and fourth in the 500 freestyle. The 200 medley relay team of Marissa McNerney, freshman Mary Sellinger, sophomore Ada Doepke, and junior Avery Clayton finished ninth overall. Earlier in the season, Beyerbach became the district champion for the 200 freestyle and runner-up for the 50 freestyle, setting a new school record. The girls placed second in the Miami Valley Conference and fifth at the district championships. The co-ed varsity indoor track team had numerous stand-out performances and personal bests this season. Senior Amelia Schnirring and junior Campbell Coyne qualified for the state tournament, competing in the 60 meter and 1600 meter, respectively. Both finished ninth in

their races. Earlier in the season, senior Claire Bachelder won the 200 meter at the meet on Jan. 16, Schnirring won the 60 meter at the meet on Jan. 30, and Coyne won the 1600 meter at the meet on Feb. 13. The boys varsity bowling team had an excellent season, with sophomore William Liu placing first at sectionals and senior Caleb Katz becoming the first Stinger to qualify for state for boys bowling.

S E N IOR

CALEB KATZ B E C A M E THE

FIRST STINGER TO Q U A L I F Y F O R

STATE

FOR BOYS BOWLING

After going 9-4 in the regular season and finishing second in the MVC, the Stingers had a strong showing at the sectional tournament with Liu's performance and placed ninth overall at districts. Katz’s fifth-place finish earned him an individual spot at the state tournament, where he placed 52nd overall. The boys varsity basketball team had a wonderful season, making it to the district semifinals after defeating Clermont Northeastern 42-28. The Stingers were named MVC Gray Division champs, after ending the regular season with a six-game win streak, earning an in-conference record of 7-1 and an overall record of 15-6. The co-ed varsity squash team had another great season and competed at the 2026 U.S. High School Team Championships in Philadelphia. The Stingers finished 1-2 overall at nationals with senior Siena Motch and sophomore Kenzie Motch winning all their matches. For the girls varsity bowling team, sophomore Charlotte Ahn placed 19th overall at the sectional tournament, qualifying individually for districts.

Senior Caleb Katz

The girls varsity basketball team had a strong season earning big wins over North College Hill and St. Bernard on senior night. Junior Anika Kakar was fourth in the MVC in points averaging 15.9 per game. She was also top five in the league for blocks along with freshman Skylar Tyus. The Stingers reached the first round of the district tournament. The hard work, enthusiasm, and Stinger spirit of the cheer squad kept the atmosphere high in Kalnow Gym and on the road during the boys and girls basketball games.

SCHOOL NEWS - SPORTS

Seven Hills Cheerleading

Senior Amelia Schnirring

Sophomore Charlotte Ahn

Boys Varsity Basketball Team

Girls Varsity Basketball Team

Seven Hills Squash Team

Boys Varsity Basketball

Junior Danny Beyerbach

Sophomore Marissa McNerney

SCHOOL NEWS - SPORTS

SPRING

SPRING SPORTS HONORS Athletic success continued into the spring with state tournament appearances, new school records, and notable career milestones. The boys varsity tennis team had a stellar season with standout performances. The Stingers were named the Miami Valley Conference (MVC) champions, with a record of 10-0 in the league. They finished their entire season with a record of 15-4. Freshman doubles team Bryan Zhang and Leo Cai were district finalists — the duo competed at the Lindner Family Tennis Center. Senior Adi Nayak made it to the first round of the state tournament. The boys varsity baseball team also had an exceptional season, capturing this year’s MVC Championship. The boys clinched the title after two decisive victories over Miami Valley Christian Academy. Junior Ben Leisring was recognized for his phenomenal performance on the mound and named MVC Pitcher of the Year. The co-ed track and field team enjoyed a strong season, highlighted by several outstanding performances at the OHSAA District and Regional Championships. Junior Campbell Coyne captured a regional championship after also earning a district title. Fellow junior Madison Zortman was also crowned a district champion. Both Coyne and Zortman qualified for the state championship, with Coyne placing 7th in the 3200-meter event. She again lowered her school record, set multiple times this season. Zortman placed 14th overall in the 800-meter event.

Seniors Amelia Schnirring and Claire Bachelder also delivered impressive performances at the district meet. Schnirring qualified for regional competition in both the 100- and 200-meter events, while Bachelder advanced in the 400-meter run. For both the girls and boys varsity lacrosse teams, two seniors hit career milestones. Siena Motch scored her 200th career goal this season in a match against Seton High School, and Miles Rizor scored his 100th career goal against Edgewood High School, securing a 10-8 win for the Stingers. In addition to their success in competition, several student athletes were recognized at the Upper School Awards Ceremony for their achievements in athletics, academics, and sportsmanship. Seniors Grace Guminey and Colin McNerney received the OHSAA Scholar Athlete Award, while sophomore Eli Kampel earned the Elinor Scherr Mosher Award for his outstanding sportsmanship, resilience, and school spirit. Seniors Claire Bachelder and Caleb Katz were

Varsity Boys Baseball

honored with the OHSAA Archie Griffin Sportsmanship Award. The Seven Hills Female Athlete of the Year Awards were presented to Sabrina Lee-Donovan and Amelia Schnirring, both 12-season athletes whose leadership and accomplishments left a lasting impact on their programs. Miles Rizor, a three-sport varsity athlete, was named Male Athlete of the Year. Together, these award winners exemplify the excellence, leadership, and dedication that define Seven Hills Athletics.

Junior Ben Leisring

SCHOOL NEWS - SPORTS

Senior Siena Motch

STINGERS SIGN TO P L AY I N

COLLEGE

C O N G R AT S T O T H E T H R E E M E M B E R S O F T H E C L A S S O F 2026 W H O W I L L B E C O N T I N U I N G T H E I R AT H L E T I C C A R E E R S AT T H E C O L L E G I AT E L E V E L .

DANIELA ALPER — TENNIS O C C I D E N TA L C O L L E G E

Junior Campbell Coyne

D AV I O N W A S H I N G T O N — S O C C E R BALDWIN WALL ACE UNIVERSIT Y

CLAIRE BACHELDER — TRACK VA S S A R C O L L E G E

Junior Madison

The three student-athletes were honored with a Signing Day in Kalnow Gym in April.

Zortman

“It is amazing to see Daniela, Davion, and Claire's hard work and dedication receive this level of recognition," said Athletic Director Brandon Williams. "The momentum and skills they've built on the court, field, and track at Seven Hills will only continue to grow at the collegiate level.”

Senior Miles Rizor

F I L L T H E H I L L S : S E V E N H I L L S D AY O F G I V I N G A LITTLE RAIN COULDN’T STOP THE BUZZ AROUND THIS YEAR’S FILL THE HILLS. ON MARCH 3, THE SEVEN HILLS COMMUNIT Y CAME TOGETHER FOR OUR ANNUAL D AY O F G I V I N G I N S U P P O R T O F T H E 2 0 2 5 -2 6 A N N U A L F U N D .

. . . . . . . . .

hroughout the day, the hills of both the Hillsdale and Doherty campuses filled with personalized Stinger bees, each representing a gift from a member of the community.

By the end of the day, that support added up to 250 donations and us surpassing our $25,000 matching gift challenge!

SCHOOL NEWS

T H A N K

Y O U !

D O N AT I O N S

. . . . . . .

250

Parents, alumni, faculty and staff, grandparents, and parents of alumni all played a part in the day’s success. Each gift to the Annual Fund is put to work immediately, helping bridge the 20% gap between tuition and the full cost of a Seven Hills education and supporting the teachers, programs, and opportunities that shape the student experience.

SCHOOL NEWS

retirements

NANCY CLARK

Director of admission, grades 6-12 14 YEARS OF SERVICE

“

“Every school has a few people who quietly leave a lasting imprint on the community, and Nancy Clark has long been one of those people at Seven Hills. Nancy has been so much more than a colleague — she has been a

trusted friend, an incredible teammate, and someone who has given so much to this school community over the years. Her intelligence, dedication, humor, and calm presence have made a lasting impact on so many

people, and Seven Hills is a better place because of her. I feel incredibly lucky to have worked alongside Nancy all these years, and I know I am not alone in saying she will be deeply missed.”

YEARS

~ Janet Hill, director of enrollment management and director of admission, grades 1-5

ANDY MCGARVEY

Middle School dean of academics; history teacher 38 Y E A R S O F S E R V I C E

“

“It’s hard to imagine Seven Hills without Andy here each day. His friendship, support, dedication, and willingness to help the students, his colleagues, and Seven Hills have made a lasting impact on everyone. I’m so lucky and blessed to have worked beside him and call him my best friend. He has given me many things over the past 20+ years, but the greatest gift he has given is his friendship. Retirement is so well deserved, and Andy will truly be missed more than words can say. Everyone here at the Middle School adores, respects, admires, and truly appreciates Andy McGarvey. We wish him endless happiness, relaxation, and exciting new adventures in his next chapter — he has earned it.” ~ Carri Haskins, Middle School mathematics teacher

YEARS

ANN SEBASTIAN

9 YEARS OF SERVICE

“

“Ann is a blessing to work with because she is enduringly caring to the students, highly organized, and has the

patience of a saint. In emergency situations, she remains calm and controlled even though she may feel that the situation isn’t going the way we hope it to go. Nurse Ann will be greatly missed by the students, families, and staff, as she has been a consistent member of the school community and has helped so many during her years at Seven Hills.”

YEARS

~ Joy Copfer, Hillsdale Campus school nurse

MARC RAIA

Upper School drama teacher 8 Y E A R S O F S E R V I C E

“

“Marc has brought so much to the school and the students. He has modeled empathy

and taught perseverance, encouraged creativity and demanded disciplined practice. Marc values the students and guides them with steady determination and a warm heart. We have been fortunate to work with him, to learn from him, and to know him.” ~ Tina Kuhlman, Middle & Upper School vocal music & public speaking teacher

NICK FRANCIS

retirements

Hillsdale Campus school nurse

YEARS

Upper School health teacher 2 6 Y E A R S O F S E R V I C E

“

“ Nick was the first person I met when we began our first year at Seven Hills in August 2000.

I was so nervous, and Nick's affability and sense of humor put me immediately at ease. We quickly became friends and have been for 26+ years. As a colleague, Nick has been a cheerleader, a trusted listener, and a helpful problem solver. And though he doesn't like poetry (his only character flaw), he will do his best to appreciate what I (and others) see in it. He's that kind of person. His career at Seven Hills has been a gift to the community that he helped to shape in important ways. We're lucky to have had him.”

YEARS

~ Tricia Hoar, Upper School English teacher

49 51

SCHOOL NEWS

REMEMBERING JOHN “GRAMPY” SCHAEFER

JOHN “GRAMPY” SCHAEFER T H E S E V E N H I L L S CO M M U N I T Y M O U R N S T H E PA S S I N G O F G R A N D PA R E N T, F R I E N D O F T H E S C H O O L , A N D C O A C H J O H N S C H A E F E R , W H O PA S S E D AWAY J AN. 29, 2026, AT TH E AGE O F 78.

“IN LIFE AS IN BASEBALL, YOU CAN’T BE AFRAID TO PITCH INSIDE.”

Known affectionately as “Grampy” by his family and players alike, John became a familiar face on Seven Hills’ fields and courts after his grandchildren Adam, Maria, Allison, Drew, and Clay began playing sports at the school.

Sports had always been a fixture in John’s life; he grew up playing hockey ~ John Schaefer and baseball in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Nearly 45 years ago, he began coaching his own children while balancing a career at P&G. It was P&G that brought John and his family to Cincinnati from Green Bay. In retirement, John filled his time with gardening and volunteering, but coaching remained an important way to stay involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren. He coached five sports at Seven Hills — baseball, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and softball. And while he may not have been an expert in all of those sports, he studied and became well-versed when one of his grandchildren picked up a new sport. “Coaching just brought him joy,” remembers John’s son Jared Schaefer. John’s thoughtful approach extended beyond learning the sport. He took that same care in measuring and tracking the progress of all of his players. He kept meticulous records in excel spreadsheets that he would then share with their parents. Stories of players and teams became vehicles for morals and connection. He had favorite stories to tell, like of granddaughter Maria’s sixth grade basketball team who had an amazing season after losing out on playing their fifth-grade year to COVID. And he had pearls of wisdom for his players to use on and off the field, like “let’s play two” and “in life as in baseball, you can’t be afraid to pitch inside.” Sixth-grader Will Faber, whom John coached from first grade on, remembers both his consistency and encouragement. “I’m going to miss him being at first or third base coaching us,” Will said. “He was always there. During our first practice, it was weird not having him there, because usually he's always telling us to focus on the ball and was always really helpful.”

Though John was greatly missed this season, this same sixth-grade team rallied around John’s grandson, Drew, and his son, Coach Jared, to help deliver an epic undefeated 12-0 season this past spring. The year was capped off by a miraculous comeback win over Hyde Park School in the tournament final, where the boys scored six runs in the final two innings after being down 2-0 most of the game. His grandson Adam’s varsity team also won the league title, and grandson Clay brought the heat on the third and fourth grade team as well. John’s dedication to his family and Seven Hills involved more than coaching. When his grandson Adam began showing an interest in robotics, John donated to help build the Seven Hills robotics’ capacity and ability to compete on a higher level. When Doherty kindergarten teacher Lindsay Pietroski was teaching a unit on butterflies, John planted a butterfly bush outside of her classroom. He even dressed up as Leonardo Da Vinci for the kids’ classroom when they were learning about Da Vinci. And every spring, the Doherty Carnival had prizes galore thanks to John’s time spent bargain shopping leading up to the May event. Whether he was coaching from the baseline, dressing as Da Vinci, or cheering on his grandchildren, John brought wholehearted dedication to the Seven Hills community. For many students and families, “Grampy” was simply always there. John is survived by his wife Sandi; daughter Lesley (Ben) Koth; son Jared (Susan) Schaefer; grandchildren Sean, Adam ’26, Allison ’27, Maria ’28, Drew ’32, and Clay ’36; and his sisters Joan and Mary. He is preceded in death by his parents Margaret and Clayton Schaefer, brothers Jim and Mark, and sister Mickey.

ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI NEXT CHAPTER EVENT: Discussion with Author Curtis Sittenfeld ’93

New York Times bestselling author and alum Curtis Sittenfeld returned to Seven Hills to discuss her novel “Romantic Comedy” and reflect on her journey from student to accomplished author. She was joined by her brother, P.G. Sittenfeld ’03, who moderated the event, as Curtis shared insights into her writing process and inspirations. Their chemistry made the conversation feel warm, personal, and more like catching up with an old friend.

THE SEVEN HILLS ROADSHOW: Naples, Florida, Edition!

The Development Office traveled

Hills community, welcoming new faces

construction of a brand-new

to Naples, Florida, for the annual

while longtime friends reunited.

building for a unified lower

Roadshow on Feb. 12, 2026, at the Wilderness Country Club.

Head of School Matt Bolton shared

school.

updates on the school, highlighting

Guests also shared personal anecdotes

The luncheon was graciously hosted by

campus unification efforts, construction

and memories from their time at Seven

Kathy Oechler Whitbeck H’67, Rita

of the new Doherty Lotspeich Lower

Hills, making for a memorable afternoon

Lillard Picton H’66, and Lanie Pauly

School, and progress on the strategic

of connection and camaraderie. The

Grever H’69. Many generations of

plan. This was followed by great

school looks forward to returning next

alumni, grandparents, and former parents

discussions and excitement about the

year for another celebration of the

gathered to reconnect with the Seven

Seven Hills community in Naples.

ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI PROFILE: ANDREW LIGERALDE ’14 “The coursework at Seven Hills prepared me a lot, but also it helped me explore a lot of different things. It guided me.”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

a neuroscience company before joining

MARGO KIRSTEIN CAUGHT

Phare Bio.

UP RECENTLY WITH ANDREW

“I stumbled into my current field. The

LIGERALDE ’14.

coursework at Seven Hills prepared me a

The freedom Ligeralde found at Seven

lot, but also it helped me explore a lot of

Hills to explore different areas of study

different things. It guided me and was

helped him develop interdisciplinary

hugely impactful.”

interests and propelled him through his

Ligeralde had many fond memories of his

post-graduate studies and into his

time at Seven Hills, both academically

current career.

and socially, from history with Mr. Bob

“Seven Hills broadly encourages you to

Turansky, math and physics with Dr.

try a lot of different classes,” Ligeralde

Lenore Horner, jazz band with Mr. [John]

said. “You get to know your teachers

Rising, and English with Mr. Erich

pretty well and being in a small

Schweikher to hanging out with his

classroom setting lets you explore

friends in the library and senior lounge.

interests more deeply than you otherwise would have.” He currently works as a computational scientist for Phare Bio, a Boston-based nonprofit that does AI-assisted antibiotic drug discovery. AI is being

Andrew Ligeralde ’14 that inspired me to major in chemistry. But I sort of pivoted in grad school,” he said.

andr e Lige w used to explore new chemistry to try and find non-antibiotic resistant bacteria. “It is kinda funny how it comes full circle. I was really interested in

chemistry coming out of Seven Hills. I

took it for two years with Mrs. Ford and

After Seven Hills, Ligeralde earned a B.S. in chemical physics from Rice University and a Ph.D. in biophysics from UC Berkeley. Using his interest for studying new fields he developed at Seven Hills, Ligeralde learned to code, learned more about modern AI methods, and worked for

rald

“There are so many different phases of my life at Seven Hills,” he said. “I basically grew up there. I was there from pre-k at Lotspeich all the way to senior year. I have core memories from every part of my childhood from Seven Hills.” His advice to students was to cherish the time with friends and to not be afraid to follow their interests and take advantage of the freedom Seven Hills provides to let them do so.

ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI PROFILE: WENDY WOFFINGTON ’22 “Seven Hills gave me the confidence and the independence to lean into who I am creatively and personally.”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

to lean into who I am creatively and personally.”

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT MARGO KIRSTEIN CAUGHT UP RECENTLY WITH WENDY

When asked when her work in fashion began, Woffington said it started with her Challenge Experience while she was a Seven Hills Upper Schooler. She created a high fashion magazine called “Flip,” which reworked thrifted clothing into high-fashion streetwear.

WOFFINGTON ’22.

Seven Hills’ supportive, creative environment has stayed with Woffington as she has launched her career in fashion. Woffington graduated with a degree in fashion industry and merchandising from Drexel University in Philadelphia in March 2026. Woffington called it the business side of fashion, and while at Drexel, she started her own company WW Studios, a strategic partner and creative director for musical artists and celebrities. “We do everything from strategic development to branding, creating an artist's identity. All of that really goes hand in hand with styling and fashion as well,” Woffington said. While following her passion for styling, creative directing, and costuming, Woffington has worked as a freelance fashion assistant for The Wall Street Journal Magazine, as a costume assistant on a movie set in Los Angeles, on James Free Jeweler’s holiday catalog, and on a national BP commercial. In spring 2026, she led a CSTA New York Fashion Week Show for a recent “Project Runway” winner, which was featured in Vogue Magazine.

“I realized I didn’t want to go into fashion design, but it did help me realize that I was really good at business production and creative direction. That is ultimately why I went the fashion business route.” Her advice to current Seven Hills students is to always say yes.

We n d y Wo f f i n g t o n ’ 2 2 Rewinding from New York Fashion Week and the pages of Vogue, an early bold fashion choice of Woffington’s was wearing two different shoes to her first day at the Seven Hills Middle School. “I said, ‘I have two different feet, why can’t I wear two different shoes?’” Woffington told her classmates. “That moment mirrored my career in fashion, it was embracing individuality. Seven Hills gave me the confidence and the independence

“Especially if you are in a creative industry,” she said. “So much of it is built on connections and networking.” As she continues to grow WW Studios and expand her work across fashion and entertainment, Woffington carries with her the individuality and confidence she first embraced at Seven Hills, shaping both her own path and the identities of the artists she helps bring to life while building a career defined by strong storytelling, collaboration, and a distinct creative perspective.

y n o t d g n in f f o

ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI BOARD UPDATES By Jennifer Frey ’99, Seven Hills Alumni Association Board Chair

THIS YEAR HAS BROUGHT A

Luncheon, tours of the Doherty and

WONDERFUL SERIES OF

Hillsdale campuses, and the Alumni Art

M O M E N T S T H AT R E M I N D M E ,

Show. The creative work our alumni

A G A I N A N D A G A I N, W H Y

produce across so many mediums is a vivid

E X T R A O R D I N A R Y. In January, I had the privilege of speaking at the annual Lifers Lunch, which honored the 36 members of the Class of 2026 who have spent their entire education, from their very first days at Lotspeich or Doherty all the way through their final year of Upper School, at Seven Hills. Each Lifer

reminder that the curiosity and creativity Seven Hills cultivates in students does not stop at graduation. Also, this April we were thrilled to welcome back Curtis Sittenfeld ’93 for the Next Chapter event discussing Curtis’ recent novel, “Romantic Comedy.” There is something uniquely meaningful about hearing a Seven Hills alumna reflect on her craft and her career in the very place where her love of storytelling first took root. It was a wonderful conversation and a perfect cap

graduate degrees from Vanderbilt University,

deepening lifelong connections between alumni and the school; expanding alumni opportunities for mentoring, volunteering, received a picture frame with a photo from

and career networking; and strengthening

their first year alongside a photo from this

the channels that keep our community close

year. Seeing the images of bright-eyed

no matter where life has taken us. We are

early learners next to poised seniors was a

energized by the engagement we have seen

moving testament to what this school

this year and look forward to sharing more

nurtures over time. It was a genuine honor

about what is ahead for 2026-27 in the

to be in the room, and I left with an even

coming months.

Seven Hills is what it is because of the community that surrounds it, and alumni make our community whole. I hope you have

April has been a particularly full and joyful

a wonderful summer, and I look forward to

month for our alumni community. Reunion

seeing many of you over the summer or next

Weekend brought together alumni from

school year.

milestone classes for the Classics

president and CEO of Every Child Succeeds as well

Through it all, the Alumni Board has

at the heart of Seven Hills’ strategic plan:

of their children’s lives.

our Alumni Association Board chair. Jennifer is as faculty at Cincinnati Children's and UC College

school leadership to advance the priorities

have trusted Seven Hills with so many years

We are honored to have Jennifer Frey ’99 serve as

to a memorable spring. continued its work in close partnership with

deeper appreciation for the families who

Jennifer Frey ’99

THIS COMMUNIT Y IS SO

of Medicine. After earning her undergraduate and Jennifer directed large-scale curriculum implementation projects in Head Start in Birmingham, Alabama, and served as faculty of the Graduate School of Education and Human Development at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

S TAY C O N N E C T E D ! Like … Seven Hills School Alumni page on Facebook

Follow … Seven Hills Alumni on Instagram

Join … Seven Hills School Alumni group on LinkedIn

ALUMNI NEWS

WELCOME NEW ALUMNI BOARD MEMBERS Seven Hills welcomes four new members to the Alumni Association Board: Bryan Bibler ’06, Spencer Boyd II ’20, Molly J. Ellis ’14, and Karla Schweer ’96.

B RYA N B IB LE R ’06: Bryan Bibler is a Seven Hills Lifer. He co-founded and owns Thirty-Six Education, a one-onone tutoring company focused on teaching the SAT and ACT based out of Cincinnati. His daughters, Amelia and Lucy, attend Doherty. In his spare time, Bryan plays the guitar and loves Bengals football.

S PE N CE R B OY D II ’ 20: As a student at Seven Hills, Spencer was a member of the swim and dive and baseball teams. He is a founding member of the non-profit organization called Sole Bros Inc, alongside his classmate, Curtis Harrison IV. At DePauw University, he studied communications and was an active member and leader of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Spencer graduated from DePauw in 2024 as a team captain of the swim program, as a member of the dean's list, and with a B.A. in communications. Professionally,

Spencer has been working in the world of sports since 2022. He has worked with the New York Jets, Chicago Bears, and New York Giants as a football and team operations staff member. Most recently, he has begun working in the Seven Hills athletic department, assisting with their home games and matches, and as the assistant coach for the swimming team. He also has continued his work in football as a scouting and personnel assistant for The Athlete Factory, an agency representing athletes from high school to the professional level, and with The Dream Bowl, an all-star bowl game for collegiate football players who are eligible for that year's NFL Draft. Spencer loves the Seven Hills community. He is excited to continue giving back to it and supporting its unique community.

MO LLY J . E LLI S ’ 14: Molly is a Seven Hills Lifer and extremely dedicated to giving back to the school that provided such a strong foundation for her academic journey. After her time at Seven Hills, she went on to graduate from Miami University with a major in international business and a minor in French. She now works at UBS as a

financial adviser, helping clients achieve their financial goals and navigate their financial futures with confidence. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Molly is deeply passionate about travel which allows her to explore different cultures and keep her inspired. She volunteers weekly as a way to give back to her community and is an avid tennis player.

K ARL A S C H W E E R ’ 96 : As a proud Seven Hills alum and second-generation graduate, Karla wants the stories, traditions, and values not only to be preserved, but actively shared and celebrated by this special school community. She lives in Bellevue, Kentucky, with her husband, works as a graphic designer in publishing, and has three children at Seven Hills. Over the years, she has been an active member of the Parent Association leading big projects and events while always valuing the small, meaningful connections that happen in the hallways. She hopes to help build a more connected, engaged alumni community as someone who has shared experience of the lifelong impact of this school and is excited to be a part of this board's vision.

ALUMNI NEWS

Lukas Geiger

’ 17

AS PART OF THE ALUMNI SPEAKER SERIES, THE UPPER SCHOOL WELCOMED BACK LUKAS GEIGER ’17 AND GABE DAVIS ’03, WHO SHARED THEIR ADVICE WITH CURRENT STUDENTS.

“What might look like a very clear path on a LinkedIn profile, probably wasn’t,” Geiger said. “You have to figure out what the path means for you, and you have to listen to yourself while you do that.” Geiger shared his journey and experience from growing up in numerous countries and becoming a Seven Hills student. After graduation, he earned a B.S. in computer science from Columbia University, where he was also a student athlete on the lightweight rowing team. He completed a co-op as a solution engineer at Salesforce before he began working for Google. Geiger is now an AI/ML customer engineer for Google Cloud and works with customers to build AI agents using Gemini 3. He encouraged students to find their niche and do what others aren’t doing, while keeping in mind there is not one path for everyone.

just give me an ’t n id d ls il H en “Sev t me how to ask gh u ta It . on ti ca edu y curious, and a st to s, on ti es qu .” ings that matter th t ou b a re ca to 58

~ Gabe Davis ’03

Gabe Davis

’ 03

Davis stressed the importance of what Seven Hills taught him beyond the academics that led him to a career as a civil rights attorney. “Seven Hills didn’t just give me an education,” Davis said. “It taught me how to ask questions, it taught me to stay curious, and it taught me to care about things that matter. What I recall most is not one big moment, it is the culmination of small ones. The teachers that pushed a little further. The classmates who challenged me. A culture that made me want to engage with the world, not just observe it.” Davis attended Yale University for undergraduate school and earned his law degree from Harvard Law School in 2011. He is currently the CEO of the Ohio Justice & Policy Center, a nonprofit civil rights law firm dedicated to advancing justice reform. He was previously the executive director of the Citizen Complaint Authority, a policing oversight agency in Cincinnati, and a federal prosecutor for the civil rights division of the U.S. Department of Justice. He credited Seven Hills with preparing him for leadership and encouraged the students to take advantage of the opportunities they have. “I encourage you to have the conviction to care and to act when something isn’t right. Have the ability to know that you don’t have all the answers,” Davis said. “The world doesn’t need more people who are sure they are right about everything. It needs people who are thoughtful enough to try and get it right.”

Photo by Oussmane Fall, Noir Media

FINDING A PATH AND EMBRACING LEADERSHIP on the Alumni Speaker Series

ALUMNI NEWS

GABE DAVIS ’03 WAS THE RECIPIENT OF THE 2025 SEVEN HILLS YOUNG ALUMNUS AWARD. Established in 2018, the Young Alumnus Award honors alums under the age of 40, who have achieved excellence in their chosen pursuits since graduation.

Davis completed his undergraduate

“

studies at Yale University, and earned his law degree from Harvard Law School in 2011. Davis is currently the CEO of the Ohio Justice & Policy Center, OJPC, a nonprofit civil rights law firm dedicated to advancing justice reform. During his keynote address to the Upper School students, he shared his time at Seven Hills was about more Gabe Davis ’03

than just education. “Seven Hills didn’t just give me an education,” Davis said. “It taught me

“What I recall most about my time at

how to ask questions, it taught me to

Seven Hills is not one big moment, it

stay curious, and it taught me to care

is the culmination of small ones. The

about things that matter.”

teachers that pushed a little further.

Before his time at OJPC, Davis was the executive director of the Citizen Complaint Authority, a policing oversight agency in Cincinnati and

The classmates who challenged me. A culture that made me want to engage Davis said. He asssured the students that Seven

D.C., working for the civil rights

Hills is preparing them for leadership.

of Justice (DOJ). At the DOJ, he investigated and prosecuted hate crimes and cases involving abuse of incarcerated and detained individuals.

~ Gabe Davis ’03

with the world, not just observe it,”

a federal prosecutor in Washington, division of the U.S. Department

“ What I recall most about my time at Seven Hills is not one big moment, it is the culmination of small ones. The teachers that pushed a little further. The classmates who challenged me. A culture that made me want to engage with the world, not just observe it.”

“So, I will leave you with this, you do not have to have everything figured out right now, but you do have to decide how you are going to show up.

Leadership doesn’t start later; it starts right now with small choices,” he said. Davis served as the president of the Seven Hills Alumni Association from 2022-25 and is currently on the Alumni Board as a past president. Congratulations, Gabe!

ALUMNI NEWS

REUNION 2026

Classics Luncheon at Cincinnati Country Club

LUMNI GATHERED FOR THE ANNUAL CL ASSICS LUNCHEON AND PRESENTATION OF THE GOODALL AWARD ON FRIDAY, APRIL 10, AT THE CINCINNATI COUNTRY CLUB.

This luncheon is a longstanding tradition honoring those who graduated 50 or more years ago. We welcomed the Seven Hills Class of 1976 into the Classics Society. Junior class agents Tess Nelson, Ramsey Russo, and Jason Zhou greeted alumni as they arrived. Director of Development Margo Kirstein opened the afternoon with a welcoming message, sharing, “Today isn’t just about looking back; it’s about

celebrating everything that’s brought you to this moment. Sharing laughter, friendships, adventures, and challenges — everyone has their own story of the years that followed. Reconnecting and remembering where all the stories began is priceless.” Her words hit on a deep sense of connection, pride, and appreciation for the lasting impact of a Seven Hills education. At the heart of the luncheon was a presentation of the Goodall Award to co-honorees and sisters, Peg Hogan Wyant H’60 and Nancy Hogan Dutton H’56. During the presentation, each sister spoke about each other's successes, ranging from new innovations at Procter & Gamble to the White House.

The mic was then passed to senior class agents Rhys Ceron, Malcolm Faison, Avani Shah, and Rose Vecellio, who eloquently shared personal anecdotes of the impact Seven Hills has had on their lives and the opportunities they’ve experienced. Head of School Matt Bolton rounded out the speeches with thankful remarks that connected the past and present, and shared unification and construction updates. Eighth grader Lara Jacobs and seventh grader Laly Tate brought the event to a memorable close with performances of “I’m Not Afraid of Anything” from “Songs for a New World” and “Watch What Happens” from “Newsies.”

L to R

Standing: Malcolm Faison ’26, Matt Bolton, Rose Vecellio ’26, Melody Sawyer Richardson C’61 Seated: Charlene Simons Pfingstag C’50, Barbara White Gibson C’61, Les Bennett McNeill C’61, Sunny Bowman Saelinger C’61, Penny Ferguson Griffith C’61, Sarah Adair Kuhn C’61

L to R

Standing: Melanie Peters Morrison C’63, Jane Maddox Dumbadze C’65, Ann Bartlett Blemker C’65, Marge Davis C’65, Carol Smith Hesser C’65, Roxann Dieffenbach C’64 Seated: Annie Ratliff Naberhaus C’66, Evie Rusk Foulkes C’66, Cynthia Kuhn Beischel C’66

ALUMNI NEWS

L to R

Standing: Nancy Osher Uflan C’69, Hildy Cohen Clayton C’69, Ina Zimpelman Loftspring C’69, Connie Goldman C’70 Seated: Valerie Vornheder Allendorf C’69, Gretchen Holzman Kauscher C’69, Barbara Busener Miller C’69, Deborah Meyer Chamberlain C’69, Bron Park C’70, Anni Macht C’70

L to R

Standing: Stacy Dutton, Peg Hogan Wyant H’60, Christina Dutton Seated: Nancy Hogan Dutton H’56, Jack Wyant, Louise Atkins Head H’56, Ann McDowell Santen H’56, Patty Hogan, Carolyn Huwe Ludwig H’56

ALUMNI NEWS

REUNION 2026

Classics Luncheon at Cincinnati Country Club

L to R

Standing: Barbara Simpson Garner H’61, Janet Keys Simpkinson H’58, Gay Seybolt Bain H’51 Seated: Ramsey Russo ’27, Jason Zhou ’27, Jane Haas Friedman L’46, Peter Breidenbach L’59

Standing: Martha Goldsmith H’66, Anne Drackett Thomas H’66, Monnie Gores Peters H’66, Polly Adair Culp H’65 Seated: Susan Hawley Kelly H’66, Nancy Pechstein Aubke H’67, Rhys Ceron ’26, Avani Shah ’26, Tess Nelson ’27

ALUMNI NEWS

Alumni Art Show

L to R

Standing: Ridgely Trufant H’71, Sharon Twachtman McGraw C’71, Lissy Fabe H’71, Emily Lenherr Karr ’79 Seated: Ruth Sproull H’7, Terri Rhoades H’71, Wendy Gradison H’71, Donna Lenherr Pearce L’65

L to R

Standing: Sydney Anning Lamb L’55 H’61, Sandy Sommer, John Pogue L’55 Seated: Buck Smith L’55, Jane Hamill Sommer L’55, Ellen Levine Ebert L’55, Mike Ebert, Tucky Pogue

ALUMNI NEWS

REUNION 2026

Classics Luncheon at Cincinnati Country Club

L to R

Standing: Janet Allen-Reid ’76, Lynne Wommack Espy ’76, Mary Warrington Cassidy ’76, Melissa Mechem Congdon ’76 Seated: Susan Scoville Deye ’76, Christie Evans ’76, Marcie Allen ’76

L to R

Standing: Allison Lett Essinger ’76, Carol Andress ’76 Seated: Bizzy Matthews Goldman ’76, Christine Lowther Sayre ’76, Amanda Coleman Voss ’76

ALUMNI NEWS

Alumni Art Show L to R

Standing: Sachin Wyant, Julie Kersjes Seated: Reva Wyant, Tim Wyant ’96, Allen Zaring, John Wyant V

THE GOODALL DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD Peg Hogan Wyant H’60 and Nancy Hogan Dutton H’56

During the Annual Classics Luncheon on Friday, April 10, Head of School Matt Bolton presented the Goodall Alumni Award to co-honorees Peg Hogan Wyant H’60 and Nancy Hogan Dutton H’56.

Peg and Nancy pictured with family at the Classics Luncheon

ALUMNI NEWS

THE GOODALL DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD

Peg Hogan Wyant H’60 and Nancy Hogan Dutton H’56, cont.

Properties in 1989 and still serves as its CEO. The real estate management and development company focuses on urban neighborhoods and oversees several hundred residential and

“Rather than holding her back,

commercial units throughout Cincinnati.

Nancy’s nature allowed her to

Wyant graduated magna cum laude from Smith College. Her renovation work has received awards

push past barriers, open doors for

from Cincinnati Preservation and the National

others, and make a lasting impact

Trust for Historic Preservation, and she is a

through her work and activism.”

YWCA Career Woman of Achievement recipient.

~ Peg Hogan Wyant H’60

Wyant has also served on the boards of

Established in 1977, the award is presented annually to alumni of CPS, Hillsdale, Lotspeich, or The Seven Hills School who have achieved distinction in a public or private career or through service that betters the lives of others. We were delighted to celebrate this “Peg is a woman ahead of year’s dual her time, achieving a life recipients at the of success and fulfillment start of Reunion Weekend. without regret.” ~ Nancy Hogan Dutton H’56

A highlight of the luncheon was hearing each sister describe the

community development, and civic engagement. She founded the Cincinnati Squash Academy and, while serving for a decade as the Board Chair, repurposed the Emanuel Community Center from a daycare to a squash center and created an academic program proven successful in 15 other cities. During the luncheon, Dutton reflected on the qualities that have defined her sister's life and career. “Peg is a woman ahead of her time, achieving a life of success and fulfillment without regret,” Dutton said. Dutton built a distinguished life and career

Dutton, P.C., a Washington-based law firm that represented major international clients, like the Royal Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, and TWA airlines. She was a founding publisher and editor of the “Women’s Rights Law Reporter,” the first and oldest legal periodical in the United States focusing exclusively on the field of women’s rights law. As executive producer of the National Town Meeting at the John F. Kennedy Center, she brought together leading voices on topics of national and international affairs in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

her professional life to public affairs, law, and

Dutton has devoted decades to community and

international relations.

lifetime of admiration, shared values, and

Dutton earned a bachelor’s degree in political

Wyant has built a career defined by innovation,

In 1975, Dutton became a partner at Dutton &

marked by leadership and service, dedicating

other's impact. Their tributes reflected a service to others.

science and philosophy from the University of Michigan and Manhattanville College and a law

educational leadership, helping to found the Ellington School of the Arts, serving on the Board of Trustees for the Corcoran School of Art, and supporting fundraising efforts at the

leadership, and a commitment to strengthening

degree from Georgetown University Law Center.

National Cathedral School in Washington.

the Cincinnati community. During her 18-year

Her career began in the 1960s at the White

Wyant described Dutton as a fearless trailblazer

career at Procter & Gamble, Wyant became the company's highest-ranking woman executive and established its strategic planning and acquisitions group. Her leadership helped guide the company into new business areas while advancing acquisitions, divestitures, line extensions, and global planning. In 1999, she founded Isabella Capital, a venture firm that successfully targeted women-led 66

numerous organizations dedicated to education,

companies. Wyant also founded Grandin

House under President John F. Kennedy, where

who challenges expectations and breaks rules

she helped coordinate interdepartmental and

with purpose.

intergovernmental affairs as an assistant to the

“Rather than holding her back, Nancy’s nature

special assistant to the President. She was an executive assistant for the Office of Congressional Relations at the U.S. Department of State, where she coordinated and advised the assistant secretary, deputies, and liaison officers, and facilitated programs to sustain close collaboration with Congress on foreign policy and legislation.

allowed her to push past barriers, open doors for others, and make a lasting impact through her work and activism,” Wyant said. Congratulations, Nancy and Peg! Thank you for the work you have done to better the lives of others.

ALUMNI NEWS

REUNION 2026

CPS and Doherty Tour F r i d a y — CPS and Doherty Tour Following the Classics Luncheon, alumni gathered at the Doherty Campus for a tour led by Head of Doherty Tracy Murch. Alumni spanning from the Classes of 1951 to 2011 traveled from Virginia, North Carolina, Indiana, and Florida for Reunion Weekend. As they walked

through their old stomping grounds, they reflected on memories. Along the way, Tracy shared updates on the exciting ways current Doherty students are staying engaged and learning. Moving through Brooks Hall, Haile Hall, Jones Hall, and Faran Hall, stories and laughter filled the air as alumni reminisced about their days as students. The afternoon served as a heartfelt

reminder of the lasting connections and cherished memories formed during their time at Seven Hills.

F r i d a y e v e n i n g — Hillsdale Tour Before the Alumni Art Show and cocktail reception on Friday, April 10, alumni enjoyed strolling the Hillsdale Campus, guided by CFO/COO Lynn Kroeger, Upper

CPS & DOHERTY CAMPUS TOUR

ALUMNI NEWS

REUNION 2026

Hillsdale and Doherty Campus Tours, cont.

School science teacher Brian Berning, and Upper School English teacher Nate Gleiner. Alumni explored both familiar and newly updated spaces — sharing memories and reconnecting with teachers across generations.

current members of the Seven Hills community) gathered for a tour of the Doherty Campus. The morning started in the library, where alumni enjoyed breakfast, reconnected with former teachers, and flipped through their beloved birthday books.

S a t u r d a y — Doherty Tour The Saturday of Reunion Weekend kicked off on a high note as over 40 people (both alumni and

As they walked across the campus, conversations flowed easily and memories were shared, and

HILLSDALE CAMPUS TOUR

alumni remarked how Seven Hills continues to be a special place in their hearts. S a t u r d a y — Lotspeich and Hillsdale Tours Guided tours of Lotspeich and the greater Hillsdale Campus also took place on the Saturday morning of Reunion Weekend. First meeting in the Lotspeich library, alumni and former teachers were greeted

ALUMNI NEWS

with an assortment of classic books from their time at Seven Hills, archival photos of campus, and a few familiar artifacts. From there, the group set out on a tour led by Director of Development Margo Kirstein. Alumni enjoyed first-hand views of new innovations, while revisiting spaces that still felt familiar. “I’m enjoying piecing together where everything was from my time here, decades ago!” one alum shared as she strolled from Lotspeich library towards Founders Hall.

DOHERTY CAMPUS TOUR

ALUMNI NEWS

REUNION 2026

Hillsdale and Doherty Campus Tours, cont.

The tour concluded with a glimpse into the new addition of the Early School. Alumni loved seeing how the campus continues to evolve, while still holding onto the places and memories that shaped their time here.

LOTSPEICH AND HILLSDALE TOURS

F r i d a y — Alumni Art Show and Cocktail Reception On Friday, April 10, Founders Hall was transformed into an evening art gallery for the Alumni Art Show and cocktail reception. Nearly 200 alumni, family members, friends, and former teachers attended to view the artwork and reconnect with one another.

Alumni artists representing the Classes of 1966 through 2005 and current Upper School students displayed their work. A range of styles and mediums were showcased, such as hand-blown glass pieces inspired by the Island of Murano in the Venetian Lagoon by Craig Willis ’87, oil paintings of Les Cheneaux by Nancy Heuck Johanson H’66, and

ALUMNI NEWS

Alumni Art Show and Reception American Western-inspired photography by Karen Schulman-Bear C’74, to name just a few. Guests enjoyed a ramen bar, Asian-inspired salads, and passed hors d'oeuvres while viewing a slideshow of photos featuring reunion years. Senior Rhys Ceron played piano while alumni mingled throughout the evening. From the artwork on display to the conversations throughout Founders Hall, the evening reflected the breadth of talent and enduring connections that continue to define the Seven Hills community.

RECEPTION ART SHOW

ALUMNI NEWS

REUNION 2026: Individual Class Events

Throughout the weekend, alumni gathered for individual class events to celebrate their reunions and reconnect with classmates.

The Hillsdale Class of 1956

HILLSDALE

1956

alumni enjoyed reminiscing about their school years and catching up with one another during their 70th Reunion luncheon at Louise Head’s house. Thank you to Louise for opening your home for this special get-together!

CPS

1961 The CPS Class of 1961 enjoyed celebrating their reunion weekend by attending events through the school, going to the zoo, and having drinks and appetizers from Oriental Wok. Thank you to Melody Sawyer Richardson and Sunny Bowman Saelinger for volunteering as Reunion Reps!

ALUMNI NEWS

HILLSDALE

1966

Alumni from the Hillsdale Class of 1966 celebrated their 60th Reunion by attending the Classics Luncheon and dinner on Saturday night. Thank you to Anne Drackett Thomas for organizing your class celebration!

HILLSDALE

1971

The Hillsdale Class of 1971 gathered to celebrate its 55th Reunion on Saturday, April 11, at Lane Sikes Mertens’ home. Classmates brought salads and hors d’oeuvres to share while enjoying a beautiful afternoon reconnecting in her yard. Special thanks to Wynne McCarthy Curry, Lissy Fabe, and Lane Sikes Merten for helping make the weekend so memorable for their class.

ALUMNI NEWS

REUNION 2026: Individual Class Events, cont.

Throughout the weekend, alumni gathered for individual class events to celebrate their reunions and reconnect with classmates.

SHS

1976

The Class of 1976 celebrated a milestone reunion of 50 years in April. Twenty-four classmates returned to Cincinnati to reunite with one another. The weekend began at the annual Classics Luncheon, where the class was welcomed into the Classics Society. On Saturday afternoon, classmates gathered at Unwind Wine Bar & Light Fare in Hyde Park to reconnect and reminisce. Special thanks to Janet AllenReid, Clare Dupree, Christie Evans, and Merry Ewing for planning such a memorable reunion weekend.

SHS

1981 The Class of 1981 celebrated its 45th Reunion on Saturday, April 11, with brunch at Elaine Fenings' house. Classmates and their spouses reconnected while recalling their memories from their time as students at Seven Hills. Thank you to Sarah Mitchell Buller, Elaine Fluent Fenning, and Betsy Urband for volunteering as Reunion Reps!

ALUMNI NEWS

The Class of 1986 celebrated its 40th Reunion at Sean Donovan’s house with alumni flying in from Colorado, Florida, Massachusetts, and Michigan. A highlight of the event was having former Lotspeich fourth grade teacher Brocky Brown, former Upper School administrative assistant Rachel Foster, former Athletic Director Dick Snyder, and former Lotspeich librarian Marsha Snyder all in attendance. A big thank you to Sean Donovan and Julie Foster for making your 40th Reunion happen!

SHS

1986

SHS

1991 The Class of 1991 had their biggest reunion yet with nearly half their class returning to Cincinnati to celebrate their 35th Reunion at the Roosevelt Room in Oakley. Many classmates joined the Alumni Art Show & Cocktail Reception, as well as tours on campus — a special thank you to Mandy Hayes, David Monroe, and Kelly Myers for planning your reunion.

The Class of 1996 gathered at Hotel Covington for light bites and beverages to celebrate their 30th Reunion. Classmates reconnected over beverages and appetizers as they reflected on the past 30 years. Thank you to Fayre Schweitzer Martin, Sarah Pearce-Phipps, and Karla Baker Schweer for organizing the event.

SHS

1996 75

ALUMNI NEWS

REUNION 2026: Individual Class Events, cont.

Throughout the weekend, alumni gathered for individual class events to celebrate their reunions and reconnect with classmates.

SHS

2001

Abby Hanlon planned a fabulous gathering for the Class of 2001 at 50 West to celebrate their 25th Reunion. Classmates caught up and met each other's children and spouses while reflecting on memories of their time as Seven Hills students. Thank you, Abby Hanlon, for being a Reunion Rep!

Alumni from the Class of 2006 gathered for their 20th Reunion at Laura and Jeff Leonard's house on Saturday evening of Reunion Weekend! This celebration was a perfect reminder of how special a place Seven Hills is. One of the many highlights of the evening was a video from former Head of Upper Todd Bland. Thank you to Jillian Jones Adams, Leah Hoffheimer Broder, Peter Dumbadze, Meg Ganulin, Clay Jamison, Caroline Kalnow, and Alissa Ireland Wikert for planning your reunion!

SHS

2006

CL ASS OF

2010 R E U N I O N

CL ASS OF

2015 R E U N I O N

CL ASS OF

2020 R E U N I O N

ALUMNI CELEBRATE 5, 10, and 15 YEAR REUNIONS

2010

1 5 th R E U N I O N

“It was a joy to reconnect and catch up on all the amazing things happening in my classmates’ lives — babies, career changes, and moves to new cities,” shared Rebecca McDonough ’10. This past November, the Class of 2010 traveled from across the country to gather at Fifty West Brewing Company for their 15-year reunion. The venue was especially fitting, as Fifty West is inspired by the iconic U.S. Route 50, the first highway stretching coast to coast. Former classmates swapped stories, taking a trip down their own road of Seven Hills memories. Thank you to Rebecca for organizing.

2015

10th R E U N I O N

Ten years after graduation, the Class of 2015 showed up in force for their reunion at Queen City Exchange on Saturday, Nov. 29. More than 30 classmates gathered for cocktails, plenty of catching up, and the kind of conversation that only happens when old friends find themselves back in the same room again. All agreeing that while they may follow one another’s lives on social media, there’s no substitute for reconnecting in person. Thank you to Matt Saporito and Dan Sauers for organizing a great night for the class.

2020

5 th R E U N I O N

Rewind to March 2020, when the pandemic unexpectedly changed everything. The Class of 2020 had to navigate through unprecedented times of change, social distancing, and a virtual graduation. Now, fast forward to November 2025, when the Class of 2020 reunited for their extra meaningful five-year reunion. Alumni traveled from all corners of the country (Boston, New York City, Chicago, California, and more) to spend time together in person. Mad Tree Taproom in Oakley echoed happily with familiar voices and shared stories. Thank you to Spencer Bain and Michael Stein for planning this special reunion for your class. 77

SEVEN HILLS

Reunion

2027

April 9 &10 Every spring, alumni from near and far return to Seven Hills to celebrate milestone reunions and reconnect with classmates. This special weekend is a tribute to where our alumni began — and all the places they have gone since. It offers everyone the opportunity to strengthen lasting bonds and create new connections within the Seven Hills community.

We look forward to welcoming back alumni celebrating their reunion! Are you interested in helping to make this a special weekend for your class? Please contact McKenzie McKinney, director of alumni engagement, at mckenzie.mckinney@7hills.org or 513.728.2432 if you are interested. We are always looking for Reunion Representatives to help make your reunion special for your class.

REUNION CLASSES

CPS & HILLSDALE

Classes of 1952, 1957, 1962, 1967, and 1972 LOTSPEICH

Classes of 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961, 1966, and 1971 SEVEN HILLS

Classes of 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, and 2007

All events are provided at no cost, thanks to the generosity of your Alumni Association and the Development Office.

Information can be found on our website this coming fall at 7hills.org/reunion

CONGRATUL ATIONS TO THE SEVEN HILLS CL ASS OF 2002 ON YOUR 25th REUNION!

SHS

2002

ALUMNI NEWS

REUNION

CONGRATUL ATIONS TO THE SEVEN HILLS CL ASS OF 1977 ON YOUR 50th REUNION!

SHS

1977

ALUMNI NEWS

DOES THE SCHOOL STILL . . . HAVE THE GOOD APPLES PROGRAM? Alumni often ask whether Seven Hills still upholds the beloved traditions, events, and activities they cherished as students. And we’re delighted to answer, “Yes! We still do that!”

would like additional help. From that point, the Lotspeich and Doherty programs differ slightly.

F O R 37 Y E A R S , F I F T H G R A D E R S AT L O T S P E I C H A N D D O H E R T Y H AV E G I V E N

At Lotspeich, students list their preference for the classrooms they would like to volunteer in, and Schomber matches them.

BACK TO THE SEVEN HILLS SCHOOL COMMUNIT Y AND SERVED AS ROLE MODELS FOR THEIR YOUNGER PEERS THROUGH THE GOOD

At Doherty, there is a “job board” with the available openings, and students must fill out a job application that explains why they would be a good fit for the role. Additionally, if a student is in a position

APPLES PROGRAM. G O O D A P P L E S, A T R A D I T I O N S TA R T E D B Y R E T I R E D D O H E R T Y A N D LOT S P E I C H S C H O O L C O U N S E LO R J U DY A R N O L D, I S A VO LU N TA R Y P R O G R A M T H AT I N V I T E S LOT S P E I C H FIFTH GRADERS AND DOHERT Y U N I T I I I S T U D E N T S TO A S S I S T T H E I R S C H O O L’S T E A C H E R S.

Lotspeich students volunteer during recess once a week or occasionally help with After the Bell, and Doherty students may volunteer in the morning or during recess depending on the task. There are many tasks available for Good Apples, including reading to pre-kindergarten students at Doherty, assembling worksheet packets, designing coloring sheets, and more. “The purpose of the program is to foster responsibility in the [students], as leaders of their division and provide help to classroom teachers to do tasks — like organizing, filing, cleaning, and pet care — that take time and aren’t directly serving kids,” Arnold said during a 2020 interview. “It is also a way to reunite students with previous teachers and nurture those connections.” During Arnold’s tenure at Seven Hills, 100%, or nearly 100%, of eligible students

became a Good Apple. Today, Lotspeich counselor Seraphine Schomber and Doherty counselor Angie Bielecki shared that participation in the program has remained the same. The process to becoming a Good Apple begins with Schomber and Bielecki reaching out to teachers and seeing who

1985

they wish to quit, they must write and submit a short resignation letter. “The program helps build mentorship in our oldest students and benefits all grade levels,” Bielecki said. “Students understand there are different ways to be a leader, and everyone has different passions and strengths that allow them to help others in various ways.” Doherty Unit III teacher Allison Hills ’13 said participating in the Good Apples program helped her quickly feel a sense of community during her first year at Seven Hills. “I loved it because it made me feel more connected to the school; I came in fifth grade,” Hills said. “I also liked being given free reign of the campus, too. And

id Leigh F Did you know that when you get into fifth you can do something called Good Apples? Well, I am going to tell you a little bit about it. Mrs. Arnold runs this program and you are assigned a teacher to

ler

“The program helps build mentorship in our oldest students and benefits all grade levels. Students understand there are different ways to be a leader, and everyone has different passions and strengths that allow them to help others in various ways.” ~ Angie Bielecki, Doherty counselor

it helped me meet other teachers. I can't remember what specific job I did, but it's interesting to go from participating as a kid to helping run it with Bill Schmidt and Angie Bielecki as a Unit III teacher now. Things really do come full circle!”

Good Ap

help out around the classroom. For instance, Shea and I are helping Mrs. Cohen in the computer lab. We do things like put the headphones back where they belong, clean the key-boards,

ples

and much, much more. One of the great things about Good Apples is not only is it fun, the teachers really appreciate the help. I definitely recommend doing Good Apples. It is a blast!

Riyah Vaughn ’21, a Lotspeich prekindergarten for 2-year-olds assistant teacher, said she fondly remembers her time as a Good Apple and knows the impact it can have. “I remember being in fifth grade going down to the first-grade classrooms and organizing and stapling the paper book copies for the class,” Vaughn said. “I loved doing it, it gave me a chance to help the teacher out. A little goes a long way in this profession.” Schomber said students have a true sense of ownership of their jobs, and they learn how to best utilize their individual skills to help teachers. “Kids love participating in Good Apples,” Schomber said. “It gives our oldest students a chance to be leaders and an opportunity to give back to their school community. It’s something younger students look forward to being a part of and continuing the tradition.”

ALUMNI NEWS

CLASS NOTES News from our Alumni 1976: Janet Allen-Reid (Washington, D.C.) and Margaret Stewart (Arlington, VA) attended “Life of the Potomac” by Nova Plein Air Artists, where Stewart’s artwork was on display. After reconnecting during Reunion Weekend and seeing in the latest Class Notes that Allen-Reid had recently moved to D.C., Stewart invited AllenReid to the reception. 1

2005 - 2016:

2007:

Alumni spanning from the classes of 2005 to 2016 met for dinner to establish and enhance networking in Cincinnati. Gil Richards ’11, Jared Fisher ’16, Adimu Mondrian, Jared Nelson ’15, Jonathan Coleman ’07, Kit Brunner ’07, Kenji Takahashi ’08, and Jordan Harris ’05 gathered for a group photo. 2

Kit Brunner (Cincinnati) founded Queen City Impact in 2023 to help families decide 4 what they want to do and how to make the biggest philanthropic impact. In April 2026, Queen City Impact was nominated for the 27th Annual Family & Private Business Awards. Congratulations, Kit! 4

2006: Laura Houston (Cincinnati) opened Dovetale Bakery in Hyde Park at 3441 Edwards Road; she co-owns the bakery along with her business partner. Dovetale offers artisanal pastries, fresh breads, and coffee. Katie Donovan Waltham (Boston) and her husband Chris Waltham moved back to Cincinnati. This fall, their two children Lachlan (4) and Matilda (3) will start at Seven Hills. They can’t wait! 82

Liza Zimmerman Krasner (Mariemont, OH) and her husband Bill Krasner welcomed their third child, Audrey Wells Krasner, to the family in May. Congratulations, Liza, Bill, and Audrey’s older siblings! 3

2010: Gilbert Pasquale (Chicago) married Julia Sarne on Aug. 8, 2025, at the Chicago History Museum. Alumni Adam Jatho ’10, Jacob Johnson ’10, Ellie Pasquale ’15, Sara Johnson ’14, and Bizzie Shanahan ’10 were all in attendance. Congratulations, Gilbert and Julia! 6

2011: Andre Hunter-Woodward (Cincinnati) recently started a new role as an account executive at ShipBob. He was introduced to the opportunity through his classmate and good friend, Max Davis ’11, whose wife works on ShipBob’s talent acquisition team.

2015: Nicole Malofsky (Nashville, TN) graduated with her Ph.D. in biomedical

2009: Chelsea Zesch Jones (Cincinnati) and her husband Joshua Jones welcomed their second daughter, June Margaret Jones, on March 10. Big sister, Edith, adores her new playmate and reading buddy. 5

I N MALUMNI E M O R NEWS IAM Our condolences to the families and friends who have lost loved ones. 1938 Ann Lackman Miller (C) (Maine) passed away on Feb. 24, 2026

2017: Jacob Berning (Cincinnati) started a new position as an associate trade planning and execution manager at Smithfield Foods.

2018: Charlie Dwight (Houston) proposed to his girlfriend, Olivia Garcia, in Vail, Colorado. The couple met in Houston, where they both attended college. Congratulations, Charlie and Olivia! 8 6

1946 Emmy Gest Todd (C) (Cincinnati) passed away on Dec. 1, 2025 1949 Susie Armstrong Beutler (H) (Michigan) passed away on Jan. 26, 2026 1953 Clarinda Schmidlapp (C) (Cincinnati) passed away on June 18, 2026 1956 Mimi Plattenburg Gilbert (C) (Cincinnati) passed away on Feb. 25, 2026 1958 Ellen Blemker Thomas (C) (Ohio) passed away on May 29, 2026. 1960 Rudy Knoop (L) (Tennessee) passed away on Feb. 13, 2026 1961

engineering from Vanderbilt University on May 8. Her dissertation research developed low-cost diagnostics for screening tuberculosis drug resistance. Upon graduation, she is pursuing a career in consulting.

Claudia Gilmore Cummings (H) (Cincinnati) passed away on April 24, 2026 1987

Craig Collier (Cincinnati) passed away on Jan. 26, 2026 7

Arjun Dheenan (Cincinnati) started a new position as scientist, advanced military materials at GE Aerospace.

Shane DiGiovanna (Cincinnati) passed away March 30, 2026

Friends of Seven Hills

2016:

Mike Stough (Cincinnati), former parent & grandparent, passed away on Oct. 9, 2025

Catherine Bain (Norman, OK) successfully defended her dissertation and graduated in May with her doctorate in quantitative psychology from the University of Oklahoma. Bain is an incoming assistant professor of quantitative psychology at California State University, Northridge. 7 Mekhala Rao (Chicago) was promoted to senior strategy associate at Uber. In this role, she helps with global support operations.

2017

Lynn Deckter (Cincinnati), former parent & grandparent, passed away Nov. 15, 2025 John Schaefer (Cincinnati), grandparent & coach, passed away Jan. 29, 2026 Carlos Martinez (Cincinnati), parent, passed away March 3, 2026 8

Elizabeth Coley (Cincinnati), former parent, passed away June 25, 2026

ALUMNI NEWS

CLASS NOTES, Continued . . .

News from our Alumni Ally Jandes (Cincinnati) was promoted from communication specialist to account executive at B2 Communications. B2 Communications is a client-focused PR agency that works as an extension of corporate marketing and PE departments to create and execute a PR strategy that fuels consumers' success.

Jake Schimberg (Chicago) started a new role as portfolio operations manager at Seres Capital Partners.

Matt Kreines (Cincinnati) proposed to Dana Hubscher in Punta Cana on March 18, 2026. Congratulations, Matt and Dana! 9

Ella Yi (Arlington, VA) was recently promoted to senior specialist, analyst at Gartner. In this new role, she supports chief audit executives in making

2019: Amy Bushman (Atlanta) started a new position as dailies operator at Company 3. Company 3 is a comprehensive postproduction facility. They are home to one of the largest, most talented pools of

This past spring, Spencer Boyd, Joshua Nelson (Cincinnati), and Curtis Harrison (Cincinnati) went out to dinner and ran into Doherty teacher Mrs. Kulhavik and librarian Mrs. Schnirring and Middle School PE teacher Mr. Schnirring! 11

colorists and visual effects artists working in post-production today. Emma Shuppert (San Antonio, TX) earned a master of professional science in marine conservation from the University of Miami and a bachelor of science in marine science and conservation from Duke University. In May, Shuppert joined Teach for America as a corps member in San Antonio. She will focus on expanding educational access and fostering student engagement, particularly in STEM. 10 11

WH AT ’S NE W WI TH

YO U?

sional Share personal and profes r milestones with the Stinge ed in Class community. To be includ accomNotes, send your recent esolution plishments with a high-r ney, photo to McKenzie McKin ment, at director of alumni engage s.org. mckenzie.mckinney@7hill 84

2020: Spencer Boyd (Cincinnati) a DePauw graduate, was recently promoted to athlete development and partnerships associate at the Athlete Factory Agency, an NFL and NIL full-service agency. Boyd is also back at Seven Hills assisting the athletic department, coaching the swim team, and serving on the Alumni Board!

informed, best-practices business decisions through research deliverables and client engagement.

2021: Audrey Howard (New York City) started a new role as sales assistant at Andrew Edlin Gallery. The gallery focuses on

ALUMNI NEWS

2025:

self-taught artists and represents the estates of Beverly Buchanan and Henry Darger, among others.

Tony Wang (Beijing, China) joined Head of School Matt Bolton and Seven Hills students for dinner in Beijing while Upper School students were traveling throughout China in May. 12

Elyse Stieby (Cincinnati) started a new role at Stord as a continuous improvement engineer. Stord is a third-party logistics company. Stieby is facilitating the infrastructure and capacity planning for a new 500,000square-foot warehouse in Hebron, KY, as well as optimizing and reassessing the efficiency of the other 500,000square-foot building across the street.

S TAY E N G A G E D W I T H T H E A LU M N I A S S O C I AT I O N !

2022:

Follow . . .

Aanya Anand (Middletown, CT) graduated from Wesleyan University in May and will be moving to New York City to work for Accenture. Jenny Hu (Providence, RI) graduated from Brown University and moved to New York City. She is joining Citadel Securities as a junior paralegal. Julia Moser (Oxford, OH) graduated from Miami University with the Senior Service Leadership Award, University Honors, and Summa Cum Laude. She will start graduate school in August at the University of Cincinnati for her M.Ed. and an Ed.S. in School Psychology. Jenna Villar (Dallas) started a new role as a freelance graphic designer for Lucchese Bootmaker. In this new role, Villar will design both digital and print assets, support product photo shoots, and contribute to seasonal campaigns. She is excited to gain more hands-on experience and learn more skills in visual storytelling.

Seven Hills Alumni on Instagram

Join . . . Seven Hills School Alumni group on LinkedIn 12

Like . . . Christian Pedoto and Harper Gable (Mason, OH) got engaged in Kapalua, Hawaii. These high school sweethearts are excited to start their next chapter together and grateful for where it all began at Seven Hills! Congratulations!

Seven Hills School Alumni page on Facebook

2023:

mckenzie.mckinney@7hills.org to learn

Jade Morse (Columbus, OH) will begin her senior year at The Ohio State University, where she is majoring in industrial and systems engineering. This summer, she is excited for hands-on experience as the operations intern at The J.M. Smucker Company at their Hostess plant in Arkadelphia, AR. Morse will learn about large-scale food production and operations.

have questions answered.

Volunteer . . . as a Reunion Rep or Class Representative. Please reach out to McKenzie McKinney, director of alumni engagement, at how you can get involved, share updates or

ALUMNI NEWS

SEVEN HILLS WELCOMES BACK YOUNG ALUMNI Seven Hills graduates who have been away from campus for 10 years or less were welcomed back for the Young Alumni Luncheon.

Members of the Classes of 2015-25 reconnected with their teachers and former classmates while enjoying a lunch together in the Young Family Library in early January. Upper School physics teacher Tim Drew emceed the event and expressed his pride in everything the alums have achieved since graduating from Seven Hills. Above: Alums pose with their former teachers during the Young Alumn luncheon.

Below top: Director of Instructional Technology Kristina O’Connor greets a former student at the Young Alumni Luncheon. Below bottom: Upper School physics teacher Tim Drew catches up with former students.

“As you become leaders out there, your leadership at Seven Hills does not end and we want you to come back. We want you to share your life experiences, your business experiences. We love seeing and talking to you guys.” ~Upper School physics teacher Tim Drew

“As you become leaders out there, your leadership at Seven Hills does not end and we want you to come back,” Drew said. “We want you to share your life experiences, your business experiences. We love seeing and talking to you guys.”

Drew led the alums in a special trivia Kahoot, testing how well they know some of their former Upper School teachers, like English teachers Tricia Hoar and Nate Gleiner and science teachers Brian Berning and Lenore Horner.

ALUMNI NEWS

Save the dates! Connect and reminisce with fellow alumni and friends at upcoming Seven Hills Alumni events. For all the details and new additions to the calendar, make sure to visit www.7hills.org/alumni. Follow us on Instagram @sevenhillsalumni and join “The Seven Hills School Alumni Group” on LinkedIn.

Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026

Friday, Nov. 27-Sunday, Nov. 29

Alumni Soccer Games Women's Soccer: 5 p.m. Men's Soccer: 7 p.m. Lower Field 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, OH 45227

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 FC Cincinnati Game: Help us cheer on FC Cincinnati as they take on the New England Revolution. Join us at 6:30 p.m. at The Porch in Washington Park before kickoff at 7:30 p.m. Fifty tickets are available in the Seven Hills section; tickets cost $39 each. Reserve your seats before it sells out by calling 513.728.2430 or emailing development@7hills.org. 7:30 p.m. TQL Stadium 1501 Central Pkwy. Cincinnati, OH 45214

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 Seven Hills Roadshow — New York City 6-8 p.m. The Players Hosted in the Library 16 Gramercy Park South, New York, NY 10003 More details to follow.

Roadshow events are in the works for San Francisco and Naples — more information to follow. Additional locations will be announced at a later date.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

R OA D S H OW

E V E N T S I N T H E WO R K S

2026 Fall Alumni Reunion For the classes of 2011, 2016, and 2021! More information to follow.

Saturday, Nov. 28, 2026 Annual Alumni Basketball Games and Campus Tours Both men’s and women’s games will begin at 10 a.m. Tours will be offered following the games. Field House, Hillsdale Campus 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati

Friday, Jan. 8, 2027 Young Alumni Return to Campus Once a Stinger, always a Stinger! Alumni from the classes of 2016-2026, stroll down memory lane while you catch up with former classmates and hear what your favorite teachers are up to. Lunch will be provided. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

save the date

2026-27 Alumni Calendar

Upper School Library, Hillsdale Campus 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati

Tuesday, March 2, 2027 Fill the Hills: Seven Hills’ Day of Giving Mark your calendars for our annual day of giving and see how each donation, no matter the size, will help us fill the hills!

Friday & Saturday, April 9 & 10, 2027 REUNION WEEKEND: It is time to celebrate! Classics Luncheon, campus tours, cocktail reception, and more. Mark your calendars now.

Don’t get left off the invite list! Stay connected with the Alumni Association by sharing your updated contact information with McKenzie McKinney, director of alumni engagement, at mckenzie.mckinney@7hills.org. 87

The Seven Hills School Hillsdale Campus 5400 Red Bank Road Cincinnati, Ohio 45227

2 Class of 2026 0 26 C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S !