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Creek Story Magazine - Winter 2025-26

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CREEK STORY

The Creek Story magazine was created through contributions of the ICS faculty and staff, including Sarah Allen ’01, Bria Bates, Stephanie Chambers ’00, Josh Hubbell, Jenny Keuleman, Booth Kyle, Bob Laffey, Tyler Larkin, Jen Malachowski, Matt McCormick, Tiffany McCormick, Freddie Newman, Rona Rubin, LindseySeynhaeve,andJoshSprague

LayoutandeditingbyTiffanyMcCormick PrintingbyHighStarrofAnnapolis

Cover photo: Penn ’28 gives Luke ’28 a ride on his shoulders as theJVBoysSoccerteamishonoredattheCREEKfestpeprally; Above:Ellie’40enjoysapuddlewalkonarainyday

Photographyforthispublicationwasdonebyavarietyofartists,including:

HeatherCrowderof HeatherCrowderModernPortraits

JoshuaHubbellof Single-HandedArtsStudio

ICSEnglish&FineArtsTeacherEmilyJudson’14

JoshRottmanof AnimalHouseVisuals

Head of School Message from the

Dear Indian Creek School Community,

The first semester of the 2025-26 school year has been a lot of fun. Whether we’ve celebrated together at the opening PTO tailgate or at CREEKfest, or you have been on campus for a performance or showcase, the Creek value of connection has been a constant We opened this fall with 597 students the highest enrollment we’ve seen in a decade and the campus has buzzed with energy, purpose, and possibility ever since As our student population has grown, we’ve been intentional: adding talented new faculty, creating additional instructional spaces, and reducing Middle and Upper School class sizes to ensure that every student benefits from the Creek’s commitment to the relentless pursuit of educational excellence.

HeadofSchoolBoothKyleenjoysCREEKfest.

This momentum is rooted in the School’s Strategic Plan This fall, we made rapid progress on all four pillars - Advancing Excellence, Campus Footprint, Financial Durability, and Telling the Creek Story. It is gratifying to see this work taking shape so vividly across campus.

The new Machemer Family Creek Lab is an important symbol of the school’s immersive learning focus, hosting Lower School STEM classes, Middle School ACE, STEM, and Outdoor lessons, and Upper School Engineering classes, while also providing open lab time for student exploration The Vos Family Academic Resource Center has evolved to house our Ed Tech faculty and continues to serve as an academic space where students can work quietly, collaboratively, or with faculty for enrichment and support The Admissions, College Counseling, and Community & Well-Being offices are now housed at the main entrance, forming a nucleus of connection and outreach at the heart of the school The addition of field turf in the Dome and the relocated Strength & Conditioning Center have improved the student-athlete experience. The new Alumni House on the hill symbolizes an important focus on alumni and community.

I am thrilled about the arrival of the school’s first greenhouse, adjacent to the Creek Lab This corner of the main building is becoming the heart of immersive, hands-on learning programs Next year we will implement a comprehensive PK–12 Outdoor Education program, including trailhead kiosks, a new Outdoor Classroom, and storage facilities for Outdoor gear and materials The campus footprint is expanding before our eyes

UPTHECREEK!

Through the Up the Creek podcast, Indian Creek Head of School Booth Kyle guides listeners through an inside view of “what’s up” at ICS These informal conversations highlight what makes the school exceptional – its people. “Creekers” young and old cover a range of topics and perspectives via their shared dedication to the Creek Join Mr Kyle - and his line-up of guest hosts - as theytake a deep dive into the Creek SEASON 2...NOW STREAMING!

The School’s financial health has improved impressively over the past decade Enrollment gains and strategic financial planning have produced six successive annual operating surpluses The generosity of the Creek community led to over $1m fundraised in 2024-25 - a record high in a non-campaign year This past summer, the Board of Trustees established the School’s first endowment Due to all of this good work, we have improved faculty compensation and benefits, enhanced instructional spaces, and created new programs like the Evergreen Institute and the Outdoor program

I have long known that you can visit most school campuses, anywhere, and you’ll hear the words academic excellence One of our core Creek values is “educational excellence” This is an important distinction, because the word educational is intentionally more expansive and broader than the word academic.

We have spent considerable time over the last four years identifying our values, via reframing our mission and boldly sharing our vision for the school Through those initiatives, our version of excellence has emerged – an intersection of the core Creek value of Connection, with the spirit of progress that manifests in the relentless pursuit of educational excellence

THROUGH IT ALL, WE ARE PREPARING OUR STUDENTS TO DEVELOP RELATIONSHIPS, UNDERSTAND WHAT IT MEANS TO BE OPEN-MINDED AND CURIOUS IN THE FACE OF PROGRESS, AND ULTIMATELY WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A GOOD AND SUCCESSFUL PERSON.

I see that excellence daily. Traditional success metrics like improved standardized test scores, college placement, and higher student retention all bear that out, as do interpersonal things like being kind and polite, being straightforward and honest, and being considerate I can see it when our students are on stage in an arts performance, at a Project Based Learning Showcase, or in the spotlight at the Poetry Out Loud competition I principally thank our faculty and staff for their work here. None of that would be possible without them, and the progress made in all of these areas is due to their commitment and talent

Our teachers bring important wisdom and curiosity to this moment. This year, our professional development focuses on a guiding question: What does a high-quality immersive learning program look like in the era of AI?

To that end, we have developed a student AI policy and separate and distinct faculty guidelines This February, Peter Nilsson, author of Irreplaceable: How AI Changes Everything (and Nothing) in Teaching and Learning, will spend a day with us as we explore our question on a deeper level. These conversations are strengthening our ability to prepare students for a rapidly changing world and push us to think creatively about how technologies may or may not influence our practices Our guiding question has proven to be both perplexing and inspiring -both good things to feel as we wrestle with understanding what is best for our students

As we continue to advance our Strategic Plan, we are laying out the groundwork for big initiatives ahead including comprehensive campus master planning, possible enrollment growth, and our strong commitment to Outdoor Education This issue of The Creek Story highlights just a sample of the high-engagement, hands-on, real-world learning that defines ICS today

It’s a great time to be at the Creek and an even greater time to imagine what comes next!

Sincerely,

Elliott’36catchesupwith hisdoppelgangerMr.Kyle on“DressLikeaTeacher” dayduringSpiritWeek.

“Let’smakethisayeartobeproudofbecausetruly,the Creekisbeautiful.”-DeanofCommunity&Well-Being

DannyHaley

CreekersfromPre-Kthroughgrade12kickofftheschoolyear togetherattheConvocationceremony.(FrontrowL-R:Elle’37, Mason’38,Taylor’37,Izzy’37;BackrowL-R:Kate’31,Greyson’35, Giselle’26,Ayla’35,Andrew’26,Amir’30;)

andMiddleSchoolstudentsEmily’30,Hadley’32,Noah’31,Lexi’30, “immersiveCarter’30—sharedreflectionsonhowCreek’ssignature learning”focusdistinguishestheirschoolexperience.

“WeareEaglesofgreatmight!”Fourthandfifthgradeskickoffthe yearbyperformingtheSchoolspiritsong.

CREE

StudentGovernmentPresidentNorahYoung’26emceesthe CREEKfestPepRallywithalittlehelpfromEugetheEagle.

“TOGETHER, WE CAN CONTINUE TO MAKE INDIAN CREEK THE KIND OF COMMUNITY WHERE EVEN WHEN LIFE ISN’T KIND, WE ARE.”

Upper School Student Government Association President Norah Young ’26 welcomed the ICS students and faculty members to the new school year at an allschool Convocation Ceremony on September 4 She began her speech by reciting the school’s vision statement, emphasizing that Indian Creek’s niche is community Norah reminded the audience that at ICS, we are all a part of something bigger than ourselves, and invited everyone to work this year to turn challenges into achievement and strangers into friends. She also encouraged the community to turn words into action, saying, “We can talk about being kind and caring for ourselves and others, but to keep that vision statement in reality, we have to follow our conversations with action.”

Traditions & Rites of Passage

Openingof School

The 2025-26 school year opened with the series of traditions and celebrations that Creekers of all ages look forward to each year From Senior Parking Spot painting, to Senior Sunrise, Orientation, Day Zero, Convocation, Class Picnics, Back-to-School Nights, and more, the fall was full of opportunities to connect and get excited about the opportunities available in the year ahead

Above:MembersoftheICSClass of2026posewiththeirnostalgic backpacksonthefirstdayoftheir senioryear.Farleft:David’34, Ceci’37,Madison’40,andLilly ’35,showtheirCreekSpiritatthe LowerSchoolCelebration;Left: Tiger,Braxton,andDomjumpfor joyaboutthestartoffourth grade.

Kick-0ff to the

2025-26SchoolYear

“Tonightisaspecialoccasion forustocometogether, notjustasparentsandteachers, butasacommunitydedicatedtothegrowth andwell-beingofourchildren.Wedon’tall supportthesamesportsteam,butnomatter whatwealwaysremainonecommunityat theCreek.

Aswelookforward,let’sworktogetherto ensurethateverychildfeelsvalued, supported,andencouraged topursuetheirdreams.”

The Indian Creek School PTO kicked off the school year with a fun, tailgate-themed social to help parents and faculty connect The casual sports jersey theme provided topics for some fun banter, and toasts by Head of School Booth Kyle and Dean of Community and Well-Being Danny Haley set the tone for a great year of learning and connection.

A Hole-in-One for ICS!

FormerMiddleSchool Principal(andcurrentICS grandparent)Bruce Crossmanleadshis foursome(BradOlsen, DirectorofAlumni EngagementMatt McCormick,Dawson Olsen’13)tothelinks.

ICSparentShubhangi Thompsonadmiresherlong drivesearlyinthecourse.

With your generous support and participation, this year’s Creek Golf Tournament event raised $49,000 for the Creek! Scan or click on the QR code to the right to view some highlights from the day

IndianCreekVarsitySoccerProgramDirector(andcurrent parent)PatNoel,andSteveCampbell,showcamaraderie withtheirguestsJimandBobDeeganandBarryLawerence.

ICSparentKeithWengercloselywatches hisdriveasteammatesJamieEnglesand EddieEnglescheerhimon.

ICSDirectorofAdvancementJennyKeulemanandRob Pascal’96celebrateasuccessfulmatchingchallengeatthe receptionfollowingthematch.

AfoursomecomprisingICSparents andalumniChrisGrizzell’90,Ian Mitchell,TomSimmons’97,and SteveMargerum’94showtheir supportfortheCreek.

The Creek-iest day of the year!

Jackson’30,Kate’31,Lily’30, andWesley’31addCreek spiritinthePepBand.

Gus’34dominatedthegames andtradedwellatthepost.

Rebekah’28,Peyton’29,Gigi’26, Mackenzie’28,Elyse’26,Ofundem ’27,Norah’26,andKennedy’28enjoy thepeprally.

What fun we had at CREEKfest 2025! From the all-school spirit week, to an Early Childhood Pep Rally hosted by the Middle School SGA, the huge rally on the fields with Mr. Connolly’s famous “Euge” call to arms, the fall festival, homecoming games, alumni pavilion, carnival rides, karaoke, trading post, all culminating in Crownsville’s best fireworks display of the year our Creek Community knows how to celebrate!

Elyse’26flipswithprideastheVarsity FieldHockeyteamiscalledatthepeprally.

MembersoftheVarsityBoysSoccer teamproudlydefendtheirgoal.

Gracie’33showsoff hertradingpost winnings.

SCreekersfromgrades 1-12participateinthe traditional“EUGE!” chant.

TheMiddle SchoolMIAA BoysSoccer teamis celebratedatthe Homecoming peprally.

AlumniStacyKornmeyer’89,CarrieSimmons’97, TomSimmons’97,andErikKornmeyerconnect duringthehillsidecocktailtasting.

Mr.Connollyralliesthetroopsduringhis traditionalEugespiritcry.

TheCreekcommunityenjoys afireworkscelebration.

CollegeCounselorNadineMarksgets intoCreekspiritwithEugetheEagle.

Click or scan the QR code to the left to view a CREEKfest 2025 video recap

TheClassof2030pausesfora

Authenticity, Curiosity, & Connection

Class Trips

Thirdgradeenjoysseining duringtheirtriptothe AnnapolisMaritimemuseum.

Michael,Grayson,andTaylor makeanewfriendonthe Classof2029Falltrip.

CREEKSTORY I Page14

TheClassesof2028&2029 enjoyedaharvestmoonduring theircampingtriptoPecometh.

Each fall, grade level class trips provide important opportunities for students and teachers to work together outside of the regular classroom Collaboration, problem solving, and respect for the environment are the hallmarks of these class trips Combining these themes with an element of safe and healthy intellectual and physical risk-taking, students are expected to challenge themselves to try something new and different with the support of their classmates Additionally, class trips provide traditions for students to look forward to as they progress from gradeto-grade, and always create memories to last a lifetime Class trips play a vital role in creating a better, stronger community at Indian Creek

Fifthgradestudentstackletheclimbing wallontheropescourseatTerrapin Adventures.

TheClassof2031proudlydisplaystheir traditionalsignedbandanasduringtheir ClasstriptoGeneseeValley.

Immersive Learning

Immersive Learning

IMMERSIVE LEARNING EMPHASIZES HANDS-ON, REAL-WORLD, ENGAGING, AND HIGH-INTEREST LEARNING EXPERIENCES, SHOWCASED THROUGH COMMUNITY LEARNING EXHIBITIONS.

At Indian Creek School, immersive learning is more than a teaching method - It’s a mindset that transforms classrooms into launchpads of curiosity, creativity, and real-world problemsolving. Immersive learning invites students to step beyond traditional lessons and into meaningful, authentic challenges Whether students are collecting field data on the trails, building prototypes in the CREEK Lab, or performing original work in the arts, they are constructing understanding through experience rather than memorization

What makes this approach powerful at ICS is a commitment to inquiry Across Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools, learning begins with curiosity: students investigate questions, test ideas, and carry out hands-on explorations that help them learn how to think critically, investigate, and problem-solve. Teachers act as guides modeling thinking, offering tools and scaffolds, and creating space for student autonomy Collaboration and reflection sit at the heart of the process, helping students connect their discoveries to bigger concepts and deepen understanding

Across divisions, ICS’s immersive learning comes to life in signature programs and spaces: the Outdoor Learning Program, community gardens, the Evergreen Institute, a robust STEM pathway, internships, senior passion projects, and arts showcases These experiences culminate in community exhibitions where students present, perform, or demonstrate their learning turning the school into a vibrant hub of curiosity-driven scholarship

Ultimately, immersive learning at Indian Creek School equips students with the durable skills, reflective habits, and real-world readiness they need to thrive in an era shaped by rapid change and limitless possibility.

Isabelle’37 andMillie’37 observeavolcanic chemicalreaction.

The Power of Immersive Learning

A growing body of educational research supports the benefits of immersive or experiential learning compared totraditional,lecture-basedinstruction.

Forexample:

Students in experiential learning environments, characterized by hands-on work, active problemsolving, and collaboration, tend to show higher motivation and engagement They report greater interest in their work and a stronger sense of ownershipovertheirlearning

Experiential learning supports deeper, longer-lasting understanding: Learners often retain knowledge better, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and are more likely to apply what they learn beyondtheclassroom

DJ’31andJeremiah’31explaintheircell modeltoaguestattheOctoberProject BasedLearningShowcase.

In technology-enhanced immersive settings, studies have found improved learning performance and engagement compared to traditional teaching especially when the immersive design is thoughtfully alignedwithlearninggoals.

IMMERSIVE LEARNING IS LIKE HIKING YOU CAN READ ABOUT THE TRAIL, BUT THE REAL LEARNING HAPPENS WHEN YOU’RE ACTUALLY OUT THERE, MOVING THROUGH IT, DEALING WITH THE TERRAIN, THE SOUNDS, EVEN THE WEATHER. THAT’S WHEN IT CLICK
~ Lindsey Seynhaeve, Director of Immersive Le

1 TheRoleofExperientialLearningonStudents’MotivationandClassroomEngagementbyYangtaoKong

2 ExperientialLearninginAction:AnalyzingOutcomesandEducationalImplicationsbySaranneeU-senyang

3 ExploringImmersiveLearningExperiences:ASurveybyAminKuhail,ElSayary,Farooq,andAlghamdi

Left:Melania’29 conductsaBiologylab; Right:Alex’34buildsa strawbridgethatcan withstandalarge amountofweight.

Immersive learning at Indian Creek is a commitment to equipping students for a complex, rapidly changing world one where content knowledge immediately meets skill, creativity, and purpose. Through immersivelearning,ICSisnotjustteachingfacts,butfosteringyoung people who think deeply, learn by doing, collaborate with others, and approachunknownchallengeswithconfidence

By blending the timeless goals of schooling with modern, active pedagogies rooted in research Indian Creek offers a learning

What does Immersive Learning look like

a c r o s s I n d i a n C r e e k ?

Ms Alexandra Vranas Carita

Middle School Camión de Comida

Tocelebratetheendofthefoodunit,studentscreatedamenu andmodelforaninternationalfusionfoodtruckoftheirinvention Thisyear,theMiddleSchoolSpanishteamrevisedtheprojectto culminateinaluncheonwherestudentsmadeandsharedfood Studentsresearchedfoodtraditionsfromtwocountries,oneof whichneededtobeSpanish-speaking Then,studentscreated menusfeaturingfusiondishesfrombothcultures Allproject materialswerecreatedinSpanish

Finally,studentspickedonedishfromtheirmenus,andprepared thedishfortheluncheon Studentsservedeachotherfoodand wereabletotrydishesfromtheirclassmates

Early Childhood Outdoor Education

Pre-Kstudentsfoundabigholeinthewoodsoncampusandwondered whatcreatedit TeacherStephanieChambersdidnotanswerthis question,butinsteadactedasfacilitatortoencouragecuriosityand fosterfurtherinvestigations Theresultwasmultipleongoinglong-term studentinvestigations,including: Makinghypothesesaboutwhatthecausecouldbebasedonprior learning

Building“wormhouses”basedonstudents’understandingof environmentandhabitats

Settingdebrisovertheholeopeningtotestifitisdisturbed SettinguptheTrailCameratogatherdata Observingvideotoformconclusionaboutcauseofhole

Seventh Grade Philanthropic Entrepreneurship

Studentsreadafictionalnovelaboutrefugeechildrenandgainanunderstandingoftherefugee experience,includingmodernandlocaltopicsfromthenews Inspiredtomakeadifference,theclass decidedtoholda“businessfair”toraisemoney AsthestudentsandMs McClaincontinuedtoplanthis event,itmorphedintoacapstoneProjectBasedLearningproject

Throughthisproject,eachstudent:

Writesabusinessplanforaproductorservicethatwouldappealto grades5-8

Createsamini-businessproducingandadvertisingtheirgoodsata Businessfair

Earnrealmoney(donatedbytheMSSGA)

DonatetheirproceedstotherefugeeorganizationHomesNot Borders

Physical Computing in Upper School Engineering

TheFoundation(The"B"Grade): Studentsfollowexpertlydesigned,step-by-stepguidestobuild circuits,writecode,andlearnfundamentalengineeringconcepts Thisprovidesacrucialscaffoldand safetynetforalllearners

TheLeap(The"A"Grade):Toearnahighergrade,studentsmust "extend"thebaseproject Theyaregivenalistofsuggested modificationsbutarestronglyencouragedtoinventtheirown

Thismodelis:

Hands-On:Studentsphysicallybuildcircuitsinclasseveryday Engaging&High-Interest:Studentchoiceandopen-ended projectsprovideasenseofownershipandpersonalexpression

Real-WorldApplication:Studentscandesignsolutionsto tangibleproblems,likecreatingaroomalarmorkeepingapet offthecounter

Real-WorldValidation:StudentscanobtaintheArduinoJunior Certificationattheendofthecoursetocertifytheirknowledge ofanindustrystandardtechnology

Upper School History Through Service

StudentsexploredthehistoryofthenearbyCrownsvilleHospitalCenterthroughreadings,discussions, andguestspeakers,visitedhospitalgrounds,assistedatamemorialeventatthepatientcemetery,and theninterviewedcommunitymemberstohelpgatheroralhistorytestimonies

Throughthisproject,studentsgained: Reallifeskillsbuiltandrevisedthroughpractice Anunderstandingthattheiractionscanhaveanimpact Communicationandoutreachwithin/beyondICS Empathyandperspective-taking Teamworkandservicelearning

Ms Lauren McClain
Ms Stephanie Chambers
Mr. Doug McNally
Ms. Tonya

Geometry Swimming Pool Project

Studentsdesigntheirdreamswimmingpoolusingacombination of3Dsolids Then,theyconductgeometriccalculations,including volumetodeterminethecosttofilltheirpool Theymustalso calculatetheareaofthewater’ssurfacetoestimatethecostof theirpoolcover Finally,eachstudentbuildslabeledmodelto presenttotheirclassmates,showingofftheirfavoritefeaturesof theirpool

Art in Nature: Sixth Grade Explores Bacon Ridge

Sixth-gradestudentsexploredBaconRidgePark,sketching abandonedcarremainshiddeninnature Afterreturningtothe classroom,theytransformedtheirobservationsintomixedmedia artworks,blendingwatercolor,pencil,andSharpie Theexperience sparkedcreativityandshowedhowartcanemergefromunexpected places

Studentswereactivelyengagedwiththeirenvironment exploring, observing,andcreatingartinspiredbyreal-worldexperiences They connectedwithnature,interpretedwhattheysaw,andtransformed thoseobservationsintopersonalartisticexpressions

“LeavingcampustogohikingatBaconRidgewasspecialbecauseit gaveusafirsthandexperienceviewingcars Thisshowedstudents thatbeautifulartcanbeseenindifferentways”-Debra’32

Fifth Grade Water Unit

Studentswereimmersedinalearningexperienceaboutwaterasafiniteresourceneededtosustainlife onearth,aimingtoanswertheDrivingQuestion:Isaccesstowaterarightoraprivilege?Duringthisunit, studentslearnedaboutthehumanimpactonnaturalresourcesthroughavarietyofcross-curricular activitiesincluding:

Readingthenovel,ALongWalktoWaterbyLindaSueParkto illustratethestruggleforsafewateraroundtheworld

Usingthescientificmethodtobuildaworkingwaterfilter

Researchingalocalnon-profitthatworkswithwaterqualityandBay restoration,andpresentingonthisorganizationtoclassmates

Participatinginahands-onfieldtripexperiencewiththeChesapeake BayFoundationtolearnfirst-handabouttheimportanceofahealthy Bayforeveryone,exploringthequestion-Howcanwebestewardsof theBay?

Observingchangesinmatter,learningaboutthemanyregionsnow experiencingdroughtasaresultofclimatechange

Creatingamodelofa“fogcatcher”thatmighttakemoisturefromfog andtransferittousablewaterresources

Fourth Grade Math Thinking Tasks

Basedonthebook,BuildingThinkingClassroomsinMathematics K-12,writtenbyPeterLiljedahl,studentsexperienceproblembasedmathtasksusingalltheyknowtocollaborativelyand creativelysolvechallenges

TheseMaththinkingtasksfosterengaging,high-interestlearning experiencesforstudents,andalignwithinquiry-basedskills involvinginvestigation,collaboration,reflection,andadeep understandingoftheconceptsbeingtaught

ling in Middle School Latin

tellingintheclassroomcanbuildinterestand mconnectionsinthebrain Thinkaboutafavorite ry,orevenaTedTalkspresentation Whatmadeit

tellingasateachingtoolhasbeenprovento: gagement ention athyandunderstanding iticalthinking arningtoreallife/personalexperience

To showcase what high-quality immersive learning can look like from Pre-K– grade 12, 10 Indian Creek faculty members presented successful immersive lessons and projects to the faculty and staff during a recent professional development day

This showcase gave faculty the opportunity to learn, ask questions, and gain inspiration from their peers

E x c e l l e n c e

i n T e a c h i n g

Ms. Tara Murphy
Ms. Allyson Sapherstein
Mr. George Yost
Ms Lisa Teeling
Ms Sierra Waldman

First

First Graders and Upper School Artists Show Cross-Campus Creativity

L-R:Isabella'27,Connor’37,Zoe'27,Lily'26,Isabelle’37, Isabelle '26, Rowan’37,Aya'28,&Lucy’37showoff theircreations.

Graders and Upper Artists Show Cross-Campus Creativity A Monster of a Collaboration

Indian Creek’s Fine Arts Department recently brought creativity, community, and cross-grade collaboration to life through a special art project connecting first graders with Upper School ceramics and painting students. Led by Fine Arts Department Chair Hilary Briles, and Art teachers Rachel Williams ’13 and Allyson Sapherstein, the project showcased the artistic journey students experience as they grow at Creek, from early imagination to refined artistic technique

The project began in the Lower School, where the Class of 2037 brainstormed and sketched whimsical, imaginative monsters These lively drawings then traveled to the Upper School studios, where ceramics students transformed the sketches into threedimensional clay sculptures, carefully interpreting every horn, zigzag, and toothy grin Meanwhile, painting students brought young artists’ ideas to life on canvas

Keyla’37and Charlotte’26admire theircollaborative creations.

The result was a vibrant, multi-media celebration of creativity First graders saw how their simple drawings could inspire professionallevel multi-media works, while Upper School artists were reminded of the playful curiosity that first sparked their own love of art.

From playful sketches to refined ceramic forms and colorful paintings, the collaboration embodied the spirit of the Fine Arts at Creek It reminded students and teachers alike that creativity is a continuum one that begins in the imagination of a child and continues to blossom through each stage of learning The project not only celebrated art but also strengthened the bonds across grade levels, illustrating just how special it is to grow and create together at the Creek

Quinn'27,Bowen’37,Will'27, Bennett’37,Garrett'26,and Johnny’37meettheirmonstermakingpeers.

“Being able to work with the kids and recreate their drawings was such a fun way to revisit projects I did in elementary school. I loved seeing their reactions to our projects and talking about it with them.”

-January Bear ’27

Shane Brown ’28 Creates Working Submarine Turning Inspiration to Reality

In the quiet hum of the Machemer Family Creek Lab’s 3D printers, Indian Creek sophomore Shane Brown is building something extraordinary: a remote-controlled submarine designed entirely from scratch Armed with CAD software, Arduino boards, and a vision for affordable underwater research for students everywhere, Shane has spent the past two years transforming his idea into reality

His first prototype could glide forward, backward, and turn with ease but buoyancy issues kept it from diving Now, with upgraded equipment and a plan to add a functional claw and camera, Shane is determined to create a versatile, low-cost ROV that could change how students and small organizations explore aquatic environments

Sponsored by the Machemer family, the Creek Lab was opened last year and has become a hub of immersive learning for the entire school Containing four 3D printers, a laser cutter, a largescale printer, machining and electronics tools, as well as workspaces, a touch board, and more, the lab is utilized by every grade Lower School classes build and tinker, Middle Schoolers learn design and printing, and Upper School science labs all take turns in the space. Open lab time allows for projects (like Shane’s) to take shape and grow.

Not only is Shane using the Creek Lab equipment to its fullest, but he has also taken initiative to request new equipment for the lab. “I requested the resin printer, and I’ve set it up. Once I have all the kinks worked out in my prototype, I will print my final design That way I have something that is more durable”

Shane credits STEM teacher Mr Glenn Klakring for assigning an inspiring ninth grade project that led him to discover his passion for naval engineering and architecture, Engineering teacher Mr Doug McNally for supplying Arduino boards and other supplies for the electronics portion of the project, and IT Coordinator Ms Jenae Gates for showing him how to use all the printers in the lab

Dreams of a functional, affordable submarine (with a claw!) continue to motivate Shane “You know, some students could easily do research on movements of fish if you mount a camera or take soil samples from the bottom of the lake with a claw attachment” Shane is determined to keep the price point down, with accessibility and affordability key components

Shane knew that building a fully functional submarine from scratch would be an ambitious challenge He sits, holding his original prototype and laughs “Last year was more of a boat than a submarine.ThisyearI’mtrying to give it actual purpose.” His work demonstrates how creativity and accessible technology can transform ideas into real-world solutions withsignificantimpact

Shane’28workstodesigna prototypeforaremotecontrolledsubmarine.

Beyond the Classroom

At Indian Creek School, the outdoors has long been an important extension of the classroom. Now, as part of the School’s broader strategic plan, ICS is deepening that commitment with a comprehensive outdoor and environmental education program for students from Pre-K through Grade 12. Designed to make full use of the School’s remarkable 114-acre campus, the expanded initiative will be fully implemented by the 2026–27 school year Its purpose is simple and ambitious: to ensure that every student engages meaningfully with nature, developing the curiosity, resilience, and real-world skills that flourish when learning moves beyond four walls

In the Lower School, outdoor education begins as a daily practice of exploration for Pre-K students and a weekly class for kindergarten through fifth grade Beginning in 2026–27, each Lower School grade will participate in a structured outdoor learning progression designed to strengthen curiosity, environmental understanding, and independence. Students will engage in developmentally aligned experiences that build skills over time, preparing them for increasingly sophisticated outdoor challenges as they move through the division Time in nature also supports well-being, offering space for movement, mindfulness, and the healthy challenge of managed risk O u t d o o r E d u c a t i o n N a t u r e i s o u r C l a s s r o o m

“So many of our kids’ experiences today resemble an organized soccer league. What they often miss are the skills that come from the pickup soccer game—problem-solving, collaboration, decision-making, and learning how to navigate uncertainty. Time outdoors gives them that experience naturally.”

! Mrs.Kokoskiandherfirstgradestudents releasethebutterfliestheyraisedfrom caterpillarsintheschoolgarden.

Middle School outdoor learning is project-based and sustainability-focused Sixth graders will tend and expand the school garden, seventh graders will lead campus sustainability initiatives that integrate work in the greenhouse, and eighth graders will research, design, and install honeybee hives introducing pollinators to ICS and leaving a legacy for future classes These projects help students develop leadership, collaboration, and authentic problem-solving while directly contributing to the health of the campus ecosystem.

Upper School students already participate in outdoor adventure experiences and environmental science fieldwork, but next year marks an exciting expansion: all sophomores will take part in a new Outdoor Education Seminar, which will invite students to explore the Chesapeake Bay region through lenses of stewardship, well-being, service, and applied academics Plans for additional electives, clubs, and leadership opportunities will further strengthen outdoor learning as a defining part of the Upper School experience.

This vision positions outdoor education as a cornerstone of the ICS education By prioritizing experiences that build resilience, curiosity, collaboration, and environmental stewardship, Indian Creek ensures that students are not only learning about the world they are learning in it, with all the confidence and creativity that comes from time spent in nature

Jordon’26andKingston’26gathersoil samplesfromaroundcampusinAP EnvironmentalScience.

Thomas’29conquersthe challengecourseonthe9 gradeclasstriptoPecometh. th

The kids who are newer to outdoor learning look to adults first. The kids who’ve grown up in it look to their environment—and to each other.”

-Stephanie Chambers ’00 Classof2031studentsconnectwhile ontheirGeneseeValleyClassTrip.

SecondgradersNolan,Janae, andDylanbuildastructurein “PineconePlace.”

“I have had a dream, past the wit of man to say what dream it was. ”

-Bottom

The Upper School’s fall production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream embraced Shakespeare’s wonderfully unruly world, reminding us that his plays were never meant to sit behind glass but to burst with humor, humanity, and delight. Creek’s staging explored the play’s many opposites order and chaos, reality and illusion, love as it is and love as we imagine it set in a world unbound by time, where Victorian rigidity, modern grit, and faerie wildness collide Guided by guest artists Casey Kaleba of Tooth & Claw Combat and alumna Ellie Handel ’14, the cast dug deep into the joyful messiness of young love and the transformative power of a little enchanted interference And while this was an Upper School production, a troupe of talented and adorable Lower School students joined the magic as fairies, charming the audience at every turn The cast mastered Shakespeare’s language so thoroughly that audiences were swept into the story, scarcely noticing its Elizabethan roots It was a vibrant, joyfilled production, shaped by months of collaboration and dedication, and it left the Creek community enchanted long after the final bow.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Upper School Fall Play Upper School Fall Play

Titania(IzzyPardo ’26)napswitha faerie(Kenzie Leasure’36)inActI.

AlexMachemer’29andElleCrowder’29performa deathscenefortheages!

AmisfitbandofMechanicals(MeaganRiley’26, RooneyMcCormick’29,AlexMachemer’29,Saoirse Hosman'27,NirvanaTiwarri’29,ElleCrowder’29) putonashowfortheRoyals.

Helena(GraceMalachowski’26)andHermia (CampbellGoodburn’26)cometoblows.

Demetrius(IanJones’27)andLysander(Sam Herman’26)competefortheloveofHelena (GraceMalachowski’26)

Puck(GraceRobinson’29)reassuresTitania(Izzy Pardo’26)andOberon(EyanWhite’29)thatallwill bewell.

Creek Pride Eagles Athletics Fall Recap Eagles Athletics Fall Recap

The 2025 fall season was a spirited and successful one for the Eagles, as every program delivered standout performances. Cross Country shined with multiple race victories and a strong 3rd-place regular season finish, highlighted by Domenic Craig ’27 earning all-conference honors Field Hockey, powered by a seasoned senior class, secured the 3rd overall seed, notched a statement win over eventual champion Roland Park, and saw Grace Malachowski ’26, Abbie Sadowski ’26, and Alexah Mitchell ’28 named all-conference. Boys Soccer continued its upward climb, with JV reaching the playoffs and Varsity earning a key league win over Park under new head coach Jesus Sonora Standout play from Elijah Gross ’29, Sebastian Coons ’27, and Jose Ceron ’28 anchored the squad Girls Soccer mounted a true comeback year, improving to 5th place and pushing eventual champion Key School to double overtime in the playoffs, with allconference honors for Marina Hemmer ’26 and Katelyn Bowen ’29. Volleyball capped the season with JV’s determined campaign and Varsity’s second straight playoff appearance, fueled by strong leadership from Mariah Smith ’26 and London Faust ’28 Across every field, court, and course, the Eagles competed with heart, grit, and momentum that promises an exciting future

JamesYounger’26dominated playthroughoutthefall.

EliRobinson’26chaseshis PBRduringahomemeet.

JacksonEngles’30 andGus Seynhaevepush towardsthegoal inanMIAAwin overSevern.

VarsityGirlsFieldHockeycelebratesaseasonof high-levelplayandcamaraderie.

Middle School athletes soared under the new tiered structure, giving students the chance to stretch themselves, take positive risks, and excel. The Boys MIAA soccer squad earned big wins over Gilman, McDonogh, and St Mary’s, while our Chesapeake soccer teams topped Sts. Peter & Paul, Key, Severn, and Beth T’Filoh. X-Country posted steady personal bests, and Field Hockey capped strong growth with a big win over St. Anne’s. Our dance program also continued to thrive, with students building confidence and artistry Most importantly, athletes across all programs embraced challenges with enthusiasm and supported one another every step of the way a true celebration of the Middle School experience

SummerRivers’29 displaysher powerfulserve.

Perseverance Pays Off...

Solomon Younger ’26 Offered Select Generation Spot in Bournemouth, England

For most high school athletes, summer soccer means local tournaments and club practices For Indian Creek senior Solomon Younger, it meant something far bigger Last December, while competing at the Disney College Soccer Showcase in Florida, Solomon caught the eye of scouts from Select Generation, a US program that connects young players with opportunities overseas That chance encounter led him to Salamanca, Spain, where he trained and competed for two weeks alongside talented players from across the country. The experience challenged him daily, pushing him to raise his level and prove himself among some of the best.

The hard work paid off. Shortly after returning home, Solomon received an offer to join Select Generation’s team in Bournemouth, England after graduation this May The opportunity includes both high-level training and enrollment at Bournemouth University, blending academics with his passion for the sport While the idea of moving so far from family felt daunting at first, Solomon now looks ahead with excitement “It’s a completely new start,” he reflected, “but the chance to be pushed every day and to grow is what excites me most”

Soccer has been a defining thread in Solomon’s life After trying nearly every sport as a child, the game stuck - thanks in part to encouragement from Maryland United and ICS coaches He credits mentors like Coach Noreiga, who helped him believe in his abilities, and teammates such as Sebastian, whose success inspired him to push further

CREEKSTORY

Even setbacks have fueled his growth. “Losing games has shaped me more than winning,” Solomon explained. “It motivates me to work on weaknesses until I get it right.”

Now in his fourth year at ICS, Solomon sees the school as more than a campus The soccer field feels like a second home - rain, sun, or even snow As he prepares to step onto an international stage, he carries with him both the skills and the resilience shaped here

“If you know what you want, keep working at it every day until you reach it - and then go further.”
– Solomon Younger ’26
Solomonmakesaplayforthe VarsityBoys.

Creek Community

A True Blue(s) Partnership

Indian Creek is proud to serve as the official training home of the Annapolis Blues FC, a partnership that has grown into a signature community connection for our school. The Blues proudly sport the Indian Creek logo on their training jerseys, a visible testament to the strength of our collaboration Our Middle and Upper School soccer players regularly serve as ball crews at home matches, ICS alumni have earned valuable professional experience through internships with the club, and Creek performing artists have even opened game days by performing the national anthem before packed crowds. This partnership provides our students with unparalleled access to high-level athletics and meaningful opportunities, enriching the student experience while strengthening ties across the greater Annapolis community

Farright:Bluesplayerssignjerseys duringa“meetthefans”nightatthe EaglesAthleticsComplex.Right:Sean Murrell’28emergesvictoriousoverBlue Manduringahalftimecompetition.

“The Annapolis Blues are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Indian Creek. Their world-class fields and facilities have been the perfect home for our team’s training and community events. It’s partners like Indian Creek that help make the Blues experience so special for our players and fans alike.”

Leading with Purpose, Empathy, and Heart

Immersive learning comes to life through the relationships Creek students build beyond our campus. Through connections with organizations such as the Blue Ribbon Project, FarmUnity, Sarah’s House, Chrysalis House, and Gigi’s Playhouse, students engage in hands-on, meaningful service They pack Backpacks of Love for foster children, harvest produce from our shared community garden, beautify playgrounds and green spaces, host inclusive events, lead drives for essential supplies, and develop authentic relationships with the people these organizations serve These experiences remind students that service is not just a donation or a one-day activity but a sustained practice of empathy, collaboration, and leadership.

Ongoing partnerships further expand these opportunities Evergreen students volunteer at Second Chance of Baltimore, Providence Center, and MD Therapeutic Riding Center, while schoolwide efforts from Caring Cupboard food drives to Girls on the Run bake sales benefiting the SPCA demonstrate how every division contributes to our culture of care. Whether planting native species, hosting kickball games with Gigi’s Playhouse, or welcoming organizations to our annual volunteer fair, ICS students experience firsthand what it means to make a positive impact Through these partnerships, they discover not just the needs of their community, but their own capacity to meet them with heart, creativity, and purpose

BLUE RIBBON PROJECT
SARAH’S HOUSE CHRYSALIS HOUSE GIGI’S

Amelia Addeo ’28 Spreads Her Care to Guatemala Turning Compassion into Action

For ICS sophomore Amelia Addeo, humanitarian work isn’t just a dream, it’s a call to action that began with a simple idea during her Eagles With A Purpose (now Evergreen Institute) program last year Tasked with creating a spring project, she envisioned something that would make a tangible difference: collecting school supplies for children in Guatemala Through an Amazon wish list and the support of her school community, Amelia gathered backpacks, crayons, flashcards, and more to deliver to a nonprofit called Asociación Nuestros Ahijados, also known as The God’s Child Project Her goal was to help give children the tools they need to learn and thrive

““They’re just kids who want to learn. Education is so important, no matter your background.”
– Amelia Addeo ’28

The inspiration came from a previous summer spent volunteering with the same organization That experience drove her to organize donations and personally deliver them during her trip The response was unforgettable, watching children light up over new supplies and even small gifts like hairbrushes and toy cars “A couple of girls cried when they got a hairbrush,” she recalls. “It’s little things that bring so much joy.”

Amelia’s efforts didn’t stop there. After two trips, she’s already planning the next phase: shifting her focus to baby essentials like bottles, onesies, and toys for the youngest members of the program What started as a school project is growing into an annual family tradition, with her mom, relatives, and friends joining in Each summer, the group spends mornings learning Spanish before heading out to serve, an experience Amelia says makes the work even more meaningful

Back at the Creek, Amelia balances her humanitarian passion with a full slate of academics and extracurriculars. A Dean’s List student, she’s thriving in Spanish III and Algebra II, and she’s discovered a love for math and science Outside the classroom, she’s a dedicated member of the volleyball team and active in Key Club and Green Club

For Amelia, these projects are more than charity, they are inspiration for her dreams of the future “I want to do something with justice,” she says thoughtfully “No matter what your background looks like, you should still get what you need.” With her drive and heart, it’s clear Amelia is just getting started.

Amelia’28takesstockofthe donationsshehascollected forchildreninGuatemala.

How Global Learning Shaped Senior Violet Vannoy’s Path From South Africa to Indian Creek...

When Violet Vannoy returned to campus from her semester abroad in South Africa this December, she brought back more than souvenirs she carried stories of leadership, creativity, and cultural immersion As part of a School for Ethics and Global Leadership partnership, Violet spent several months studying alongside high school students from all over the United States and over 30 African countries, diving into courses that challenged her perspective and expanded her horizons, while exploring Johannesburg and The Wilds Nature Reserve

The program offered a unique blend of academic rigor and experiential learning “I had a lot of specific classes for the program, like ethics and leadership,” Violet explained Her schedule included English and math, but the real excitement came from electives tailored to her interests One standout was African Studies, where Violet explored the continent through her camera “I did Africa Through the Lens, so it was a photography class,” she said The course combined history and art, culminating in a final portfolio that captured the essence of her experience

Beyond academics, Violet embraced entrepreneurial leadership a class that pushed her to think innovatively. “We got to design a board game, a company, and even a game based on values,” she shared. The school’s emphasis on entrepreneurship was deeply ingrained, encouraging students to align projects with core principles like honesty, integrity, and creativity. For Violet, this hands-on approach was both challenging and rewarding, offering a glimpse into how values shape systems and ideas

Violet’s semester in South Africa wasn’t just an academic experience it was a journey of growth, leadership, and discovery

At ICS, Violet has played varsity volleyball and is a member of the swim team, as well as co-President of the EMPOWER club She praises Mr Robinson and Ms Roth for their help academically and making her amazing adventure happen Violet plans to study psychology when she attends Colby-Sawyer College in the fall

“Being

surrounded by students from over 32 African countries

helped me understand how powerful shared values can be in building a community.”
– Violet Vannoy

’26

VioletVannoy’26embraces

INDIAN CREEK SCHOOL INDIAN CREEK SCHOOL

Our Class of 2025 are thriving at the following colleges and universities!

Anne Arundel Community College

Bowie State University

Bucknell University

Brown University

University of California at Berkeley

College of Charleston

Colorado State University

Columbia University

University of Delaware

Drew University

Elon University*

Emerson College

Florida Institute of Technology

Furman University

George Mason University*

Ithaca College

James Madison University*

Long Island University Post

Loyola University Maryland*

University of Maryland Baltimore County

University of Maryland College Park*

McDaniel College

University of Miami

Morgan State University

Northeastern University

University of Oklahoma

Penn State University*

University of Richmond

Robert Morris University

Saint Joseph’s University

Smith College

University of St Andrew’s, Scotland

St Mary’s College of Maryland

University of South Carolina

Towson University

Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland

Tulane University

Universal Technical Institute

University of Utah

University of Tampa*

University of Vermont

Washington College

Wesleyan University

West Virginia University

Wilson College

York College

*denotes multiple students attending

Always a Creeker

Meet Santina Rebechi Forrest ’83

Indian Creek’s First Student

When Indian Creek School opened its doors in 1973, Santina Forrest was the very first student enrolled. She went on to become the first Creek’s “lifer” too, attending from Early Childhood through eighth grade and watching the school grow up alongside her

“Take advantage of everything that’s offered. Don’t rush to the next step. Something that doesn’t seem important now could be meaningful later. And hold onto your friendships if you can—they give you a sense of home, no matter where life takes you.”

Her earliest memory of The Creek is visiting founder Anne Chambers’ home before classes began, where she recalls playing with blocks during what felt like an “interview” Soon after, she was part of a small nursery school class of just 10–15 students. Santina still treasures a photo of beloved staff member “Punky” (Tracy Coleman, Jr) picking her up in a Suburban Creek’s first “bus”

As Creek expanded, so did her experiences Santina vividly remembers school trips that went far beyond the ordinary seeing Annie on Broadway, eating in a famous Italian restaurant in New York, visiting Chinatown and the World Trade Center, skiing, and touring Colonial Williamsburg during the holidays.

“Those kinds of things gave us such a sense of adventure and learning,” she said

The friendships she formed were equally important “It was kind of the four of us Kelly, Christine, Anne, and me we did everything together,” Santina recalled Many of those bonds have been renewed in recent years through reunions and Facebook

Favorite teachers also stand out in her memory, including Mrs Leni Parillo and Ms Linda Parks with their unforgettable classroom banter, and science teacher (and eventual Middle School Principal) Bruce Crossman, whose hands-on projects left a lasting impression. “The small classes and hands-on experiences gave us such a strong foundation,” Santina shared “Even though I didn’t go to high school at Creek, I carried that base with me through life”

Though she now lives out of state, Santina hopes to visit the new campus soon “I know it will feel different,” she said, “but I alsoknowitwillstillfeellikehome”

SantinaForrest’97

Alumni Spotlight

Peyton Frisby ’22 Earns the Elevate Assist Award

Corporate Partnerships Intern, Indiana Pacers & Indiana Fever

When Peyton Frisby ’22 received the Elevate Assist Award from Pacers Sports & Entertainment this June, it marked an extraordinary milestone early in her career

The honor given to team members who go above and beyond recognized

Peyton’s exceptional work as a Corporate Partnerships Intern with both the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever

“I never expected to win an award so early in my career,” Peyton said “It was humbling and encouraging”

For Peyton, a lifelong Indiana Fever fan, the internship itself was a dream come true. From day one, she immersed herself in the fastpaced world of professional sports, supporting everything from documenting corporate partner signage and coordinating community watch parties to helping activate sponsorships for one of the WNBA’s top franchises

She also played a key role during some of the team’s biggest moments welcoming sponsors and donors at postgame receptions during the Fever’s home Finals games, and coordinating brand activations across Indianapolis during WNBA All-Star Weekend, including hosting events at the Fever House

Reflecting on her experience, Peyton shared deep gratitude for her mentors and teammates at Pacers Sports & Entertainment “This internship gave me invaluable skills and showed me that the career I dreamed about as a little girl is possible,” she said

Now a senior at St John’s University, Peyton is an Ozanam Scholar majoring in Sports Management and Social Justice Theory Her drive, humility, and passion for sports leadership continue to shine qualities that make her a standout example of the Creek spirit

The entire Indian Creek community celebrates Peyton’s achievements and looks forward to seeing how she continues to elevate the game, both on and off the court

Calling

Creek Alums...

Share your latest education, career, and family news with the ICS Alumni Office by emailing alumni@indiancreekschoolorg or through the QR code to the right

Class Notes

Class of 2008

Liz Kinder

Liz recently moved to the Atlanta area and works as an Event Manager with a company called Sixthman which partners with Norwegian Cruise Lines to create immersive festivals onboard cruise ships.

In the past year Liz has worked with the band Creed, Lindsey Stirling, and Nate Bargatze as the event manager for their specific events She is the point of contact for their management teams and make sure the internal event team stays true to their brands and vision

James Kriz

Co-Authored with Dr. Elias Zerhouni, James released Disease Knows No Politics in July 2025 It is “a timely, inspiring memoir that champions the American Dream and defends the National Institutes of Health (NIH) while recounting the extraordinary immigrant journey of Dr. Elias Zerhouni: former NIH director under President George W Bush, presidential envoy under President Barack Obama, and treating physician for President Ronald Reagan” (Amazoncom)

Class of 2009

David Grindrod

David was the Associate Choreographer for the 50th Anniversary Celebration of A Chorus Line on Broadway on July 30, 2025 He continues to teach at the Broadway Dance Center and choreographs major musical and dance productions across the United States. David was also recently seen dancing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!

Class of 2010

Haley Beach (Cohen)

In September of 2024, Haley married Chris Beach

Jordan Hayes

Jordan was engaged on September 3, 2025, to Jalyse Thomas

Jordan Pelavin

A Communications Specialist in Washington, DC, Jordan married Zachary Lucius in an Annapolis, MD ceremony.

Hannah Smith

After seven years with the Department of Defense, Hannah switched careers and currently works at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Labor & Delivery and the Emergency Department while going back to school for nursing Hannah’s goal is to become an L&D nurse. Hannah is also looking to get her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license to work as a CNA in the Mother & Baby Unit at AAMC

“Bet

Barclay’s Three Lessons for the Class of 2025:

Find your superpower, the thing that makes you come alive

Surround yourself with believers the mentors, teachers, and friends who see your potential even when you doubt yourself

Don’t be afraid to pivot your dreams can evolve, and that’s part of the journey.

on Yourself”

Distinguished Alumni Devin Barclay ’ 97 Addresses the Class of 2025

When Director of Alumni Engagement Matt McCormick stepped to the podium at the Class of 2025 Green and Gold Dinner, he offered two reminders that ring at the heart of Indian Creek’s mission: “You are always welcome here You are always welcome home”

It was a fitting prelude to the evening’s inaugural Alumni Green & Gold Speaker, Devin Barclay ’97 a proud ICS lifer whose story has traveled from the halls of the Evergreen Campus to the world’s biggest sports stages and back to Crownsville again

“Trying to get Devin to give me information to brag about him was like pulling teeth,” McCormick joked in his introduction “He’s a humble guy, but if anyone deserves to brag a little, it’s him”

For students and teachers who remembered the early days of Indian Creek, Barclay’s name still carried the weight of a legend “Even in 2001, four years after his departure, his name echoed in our hallways,” McCormick said “He’s filled with Creek values, and I’m proud to now know this legend and to call him an alum.”

DevinBarclay’97kicksthegamewinningfieldgoalforTheOhioState University inOTAgainstIowa.
Alum Devin Barclay catches up with ICS Founder Rebecca Randolph and former Middle School Principal Bruce Crossman at the Class of 2025Graduationceremony.

From the Creek to the Global Stage

Taking the stage to warm applause, Barclay began by recalling his earliest Creek memories: floor hockey before class, school dances where he repeatedly requested “Return of the Mack,” and the excitement of performing in Annie and Guys and Dolls He reminded the graduates that those everyday moments of joy and community are what endure

But his story soon widened from recess soccer games to the professional fields of Major League Soccer, where he signed his first contract at just sixteen. For several years, he lived the dream he had chased since childhood, scoring goals in stadiums he had once only seen on television

Yet the road was not without its turns

Injuries and setbacks arrived early, and by twenty-two, his first dream had run its course “Sometimes, reaching your dream isn’t the end of the story,” he said “It might just be the beginning of a new chapter you didn’t see coming”

Barclay credited much of his resilience to his mother, Liz Barclay, who spent more than two decades at Indian Creek as Assistant Principal and Head of Admissions “My mom’s superpower was believing that every kid has a superpower,” he said “Especially the ones who didn’t quite fit the mold”

She saw in her son not just a restless soccer-obsessed boy, but a learner with passion and purpose Her faith guided him when his career shifted, helping him refocus, finish his education, and rediscover his drive.

After leaving MLS, Barclay found himself in an unexpected new arena college football at Ohio State University. There, he walked on as a kicker and quickly rose to earn a scholarship, playing in the Rose Bowl and Sugar Bowl, becoming an Academic All-American, and earning his degree

“In soccer, mistakes are expected,” he said “In football, one mistake can cost your team the game That taught me to fail fast, learn, and move on”

Barclay went on to spend 14 years at Nike, managing professional soccer athletes across North America and helping shape the stories behind some of the sport’s biggest names Recently, he has stepped into a new chapter as a sports agent, guiding professional athletes through their own journeys.

His final charge was simple: “Go bet on yourself Like I did Like my mom taught me to do”

As the audience rose in applause, it was clear that the first Alumni Green & Gold Speaker had done more than inspire a graduating class he had reminded everyone what it means to carry the Creek spirit into the world

“Life is about betting on yourself. I lived my dream as a kid at recess, kicking a ball with my friends and I’ve found even bigger dreams along the way.” ."
-Devin Barclay, Class of 1997
AfamilyphotoofDevin onvacationwithhis family:brotherCollin, fatherDavid,andmother LizBarclay.
AphotoofBarclay whileplayingforthe ColumbiaMLSteam.
“If I’m doing something, I want to give it my all. ”

Danny Swope ’ 22 and Beth Christie ’ 24 Chart Their Course at the U.S. Naval Academy

It’s not every day that a small independent school can say it has not one, but two recent graduates walking the historic grounds of the United States Naval Academy. Yet that’s exactly the case for Indian Creek School, where Danny Swope ’22 and Beth Christie ’24 are currently answering the call to serve, lead, and learn at one of the nation’s most prestigious institutions On a recent fall evening, Director of Alumni Engagement Matt McCormick caught up with Danny and Beth to talk about their journeys from Indian Creek’s classrooms and playing fields to Bancroft Hall and how the lessons learned at The Creek continue to shapetheleadersthey’rebecomingtoday

For Beth, the dream began with flight “I reallywantedtofly,”sheshared

“But more than that, I wanted a job that involved people. I liked the sound of camaraderie.That’swhatdrewmehere.”

Danny’s path was a little less direct. Growing up in Annapolis, his family sponsored Naval Academy midshipmen an experience that planted the seed early “I looked up to them They had such purpose and fulfillment in what they were doing,” he said After a year at Wake Forest, he realized that was the life he wanted and transferred to the Academy “Being surrounded by people who are all working toward something bigger than themselves is one of the coolest parts about being here”

Both alumni found that the Academy challenges them in ways they didn’t anticipate Beth was surprised by the intensity of the transition “I blinked, and everything was full speed academics, sports, clubs The days feel long, but the year flies by” Danny echoed that sentiment “The Naval Academy forces you to fail No matter how prepared you are, you’re going to stumble But you learn that failure isn’t the end; it’s part of growth You figureouthowtogetbackup.”

It’s a lesson both say was seeded at Indian Creek, where they learned to take risks, balance responsibilities, and care for others.

Asked which of the Academy’s core values Honor, Courage, Commitment resonates most, both alumni point to commitment. “For me,” Beth said, “commitment is something I’ve carried all my life. If I’m doing something, I want to give it my all. Here, I’m surrounded by people who inspire me to do that every day”

Danny agreed “This place requires you to be fully committed to your work, your teammates, and the process You see people lose motivation if they’re not Staying committed keeps you grounded andgrowing”

When reflecting on their time at Indian Creek, both alumni quickly connected the dots between their alma mater and the Academy

“BetweenmyupbringingandIndianCreek, Ilearnedtolisten,”Bethsaid “It’seasyhere to get lost in your own schedule, but you have to notice others and check in, to be thereforthem”

“At Indian

Creek,

I learned to see people and call them by name.”
-Beth Christie ’24

Beth fondly recalled the sophomore retreat, when rain canceled the ropes course but brought the class closer together “We played volleyball and manhunt in the rain and just talked That’s when we really bonded as a class”

For younger Eagles considering a service academy, Beth’s advice is simple: “Don’t hesitate to ask for help Especially when you fail that’s how you start to recover”

“Indian

Creek prepared me for the balance of doing a lot of different things. I played soccer and lacrosse, did musicals with my friends, and it’s the same here. You’re expected to lead, study, train, and connect with people from every background. The Creek taught me how to do that.”

-Danny Swope

’22

When asked for favorite memories, Danny immediately thought of CREEKfest, “playing under the lights with everyone there” He also credited Mrs Roth for inspiring him and Ms Marks for helping him navigate college twice “She even helped after I’d graduated That meant a lot”

Both admit that failure has been one of their greatest teachers. “You might think something’s bad in the moment,” Danny said, “but you don’t know what’s best for you until you’ve gone through it. Trust the journey.”

When asked what they’ll carry with them forever, both returned to the same idea people

“I learned how important it is to care for others and stay connected,” Beth said “Some of my closest friends are still from Indian Creek I live by the idea: never burn a bridge if you don’t have to”

Danny agreed “Indian Creek was special because of the relationships with classmates and teachers alike That’s something I’ve carried here The people you connect with, the mentors you find they’re what help you grow”

“Get

involved in a lot of different things. Don’t be afraid to fail. Find what truly fulfills you and keep diving into that.”

-Swope

MARCH 7, 2026

With your generous support and lead gifts from our Board of Trustees, the Spring Gala raised $270,000 for the Creek!

Your support is more than a gift. It is a lasting investment in the Creek community, the next generation of students, and the future we are building together.

Thank you for making an impact!

2024-25 Impact Report

A Legacy of Support

The Shampaine Family Inspires Meaningful Impact

The first time I was asked to make a real gift to a school, I was 26. My former Head of School asked me to contribute $5,000 he might as well have asked for $50,000 It was more than I had ever given to any cause or charity in my life But I did it

I reworked my priorities and made the commitment That gift became the beginning of something much bigger for me. I wasn’t just giving to a school I was helping shape the future. And over time, I came to realize:

"There’snophilanthropiceffort whereyoucanmoreclearlyseethe impactofyourgivingthanaschool. EspeciallyaschoollikeIndianCreek."

-AdamShampaine’93

We’ve all made sacrifices to be here not just financial ones, we have given our time, sweat, and energy That’s why we need to give everything we can, so the return on those sacrifices is exponential and felt for years to come

There is no Indian Creek without giving We don’t give just because we pay tuition. We give because we want this place to be the best it can be for our kids, for their peers, and for the ICS faculty shaping them every day The relationships built here are timeless They live on in the lives our kids will lead and the people they will become We want Indian Creek to be a home for the brightest minds and the biggest hearts

The more we give, the more lives this school can touch and the more we ensure it remains inclusive, accessible, and exceptional, not just for those that can easily afford it Not everyone can write a big check today But most of us finance a car or other big purchases why not a gift that actually matters?

Make a pledge. Pay it monthly. Set up a recurring donation that will outlast any purchase you could make. This community gives us so much it comes with a responsibility to preserve it, protect it, and leaveitevenbetterthanwefoundit

So ask yourself: How can I support my Indian Creek family more this year? What events can I show up for? Where can I volunteer? And how can I stretch just a little more to give so this school can continue being the best place we can possibly send our kids in Anne Arundel County? Thank you Join me, and I promise you’ll gain an even deeper appreciation for how truly special this place is for all of us

With gratitude,

AdamShampaine’93

Alum,Parent(’30,’32,’34),Trustee AdvancementCommitteeCo-Chair

The Shampaine familyhas shownalongstanding dedicationto ICS.L-R:Adam ’93,Courtney, Coco’34, Wyatt’32,and Jacob’30;
Adam Shampaine

While every gift made to Indian Creek School celebrates a spirit of generosity, the members of our Leadership Giving Society exemplify a unique passion and commitment We gratefully acknowledge this very important group of contributors who help preserve and shape the future of our students and our school

The following donors contributed $1,000 or more in restricted and unrestricted gifts for the fiscal year of July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025

1973 Circle:

$100,000 and up

Adam '93 & Courtney Shampaine

Max M. Licht Charitable Foundation

Legacy Circle: $50,000 to $99,999

Anonymous

Machemer Foundation

Philpott Family Foundation

Founders' Circle: $25,000 to $49,999

Edward E. Ford Foundation

Diana Harbison

Drew & Leigh Harbison

LG Electronics

Greg Addeo & Laura Varela-Addeo

Advanced Productions

Gary & Christine Akins

Mary & Gary Anderson

Anonymous (3)

Tim &d Lisa Brown

Chesapeake Bay Trust

Janet & Jim Clauson

Geaton & JoAnn DeCesaris Family Foundation, Inc.

Johnny & Thabata DePaola

Mark Frazier & Shannon Barbee

Greenwave Management LLC

Heather Crowder Modern Portraits

Serena Higdon

Indian Creek School PTO

Brett Johnson

James Lampton & Andrea Holland

Diane & Ralph Leasure

Long Home

Kerry & Charley MacKenzie

Robert '96 & Caroline Pascal

Nate & Kristin Shenck

Mathias Family Foundation Evergreen Society: $10,000 to $24,999

Carrie (Marbury '97) & Tom Simmons '97

Kevin & Angela Thompson

Amy Zimmerman & Leo Menendez

TheMiddleSchoolIAAM GirlsVolleyballteam celebratesduring CREEKfest.

Leadership Giving Donors

Eagle Society: $5,000 to $9,999

Anonymous

Atlantic Union Bank, formerly Sandy Spring Bank

BuilderGuru Contracting, Inc.

Chesapeake Periodontics

Devon & Paul Clouse

John & Jill DePaola

Aly & Chet Goudy

Ben & Sarah Harries

Homefix Remodeling

Aaron & Angela Kuzmeskus

Booth & Colleen Kyle

Nick & Megan Larkin

Liff, Walsh & Simmons

Class Notes

Class of 2011

Chris Kalloo

continued

Graduated from George Washington in Washington, DC, Chris has been in NYC for 10 years postgraduation. He works as a tech recruiter at Bloomberg and was recently married

Class of 2012

Matt Bucci

Matt married fiancé Liv Brocato in October 2025

Eddy Goss

Eddy married his fiancé Katarina Muscedere in February 2025.

Krys Major

Krys, currently the Director of LSAT’s at Kaplan, was engaged in August 2025 to fiancé Luke Guy.

Stephen '94 & Holly Margerum

Maryland Renaissance Festival

Elizabeth & Joseph Mearman

Keith Merchant & Caitlin Darcey

Jacqueline & Greg Merkel

Katherine Porter-Reilly '84 & Daniel Reilly

Helen (Selonick '99) & James Prevas

Julius C. Smith, III '09

Julia & Scott Solomon

Dwight & Lynne Sullivan

Team Travel Source

John Vos Family Foundation

Class of 2013

Samantha Couto

Sam, a Child-Life Specialist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia was engaged to fiancé Shawn Isenegger in May 2025.

Scott Lancaster

Scott married fiancé, and ICS fifth grade teacher, Christina Monteleone in September 2025.

Daniel Pelavin

Danny, a Digital Fundraiser and Managing Strategist based out of Washington DC, married Becca Murdoch in May 2025

Class of 2014

Kate Hamill In September 2025, Kate earned the “Elite Performer Award” at Insight Global and was promoted to Strategic Account Executive.

Mitchell Moravec

Mitchell was engaged to fiancé May Bennett in August 2025

Leadership Giving Donors

114 Acre Club:

$2,500 to $4,999

Alex Almy '10 & Hannah Kleiman '10

John & Christine Becker

John & Whyvette Bonhom

Cassie & John Brennan

Frank & Michelle Chambers

Coleman Family

James G. Corckran Charitable Foundation

Jenny & James G. Corckran, II

Family Orthodontics of Annapolis

Peter & Araya Frank

Michelle & Adam Hack

Jenny & Kevin Keuleman

Jessica & James Lears

Leo's Vacation Center

David & Andrea Mahoney

Mairead O'Reilly

Michael & Jennifer Rapacki

Reinheimer Orthodontics

Rooney Family

Billy & Caroline Ruhl

Brady & Danielle Stanton

Lonni & Chris Summers

Christina & David Taylor

Top Key Construction

Mandy & Justin Watts

Emilie & Jason Yankus

Nicholas Zazulia '03

Jennifer & Brian Bach

Charlie & Donna Bagley

Blackwire Technologies

Michael & Tammy Blades

Craig & Carly Briggs

Brock & Company Inc.

Scott & Lori Bruther

Citsi & Jerry Castro

Terrence & Dawn Chambers

Cindy & Jeffrey Childs

Brett & Jennifer Colvin

Connect Wealth Leadership Club: $1,000 to $2,499

Thank you to our Donors!

Travis Belt

Travis was engaged to Rachel Joy Chase in October of 2025 Class of 2015

Ben Callanan

Currently in Washington, DC, Ben is earning his Masters in Real Estate from Georgetown. Ben continues to be active in the service world as well, volunteering at Safespot of Fairfax and the Urban Land Institute

Gaby van der Westhuizen

Gaby lives in Los Angeles, where she works at UCLA Hospital at their Rape Treatment Center providing therapy to people who were sexually assaulted She also accompanies victims during their forensic examinations. Gaby is now a Licensed Social Worker and enjoys the beach, sun, and the wonderful friends she has made in California

Leadership Giving Donors

Leadership Club:

$1,000 to $2,499

Diane B. Cookson

Stephen Coons

Karen Dale & Russell Manns

Taylor Dalisera

The Delta Air Lines Foundation

Sarah & Mark Dufresne

Dunlap Family Foundation

Angela & Daniel Dunlap

ECEG Foundation - National Philanthropic Trust

Noemí Enchautegui de Jesus & Derrick Cogburn

Leslie & Ozgur Dogan

Michelle & Ed Ervin

FASTSIGNS of Annapolis

John & Erin Favazza

Larry & Debbie Fowler

Lesley & Gary Geisel

Tifani & Michael Gleeson

Goudy Pools

Chris '90 & Kristin Grizzell

Diane Guess-Davis

Happy Tails Pet Resort

Susan & Larry Harris

Su & J.D. Harris

Tracy & Bill Hemmer

Clivette Jones

Tyler & Amanda Larkin

Jenny & Kevin Leasure

Jonathan & Julia Lebowitz

Ashley (Paschall '00) & Ethan Liebermann

Hemma & Shaun Lomax

Mary & Jack Mannix

ManTech

Mary Ann & Tom Marbury

Maryland United FC

Wendy & Kurtis McCall

Maggie & Vollie Melson

Montague Properties with eXp Realty

Melanie & Shad Montague

Heidi Morgan

Achamyelesh Mulugeta & Susenyos Getachew

Patrick & Adrienne Noel

Heike & Jon Pilon

Catherine Porter & Charles Plymale

Charina Reyes-Parungao & Jose Parungao

Leigh & David Rand

Grafton & Nicole Robinson

Siena Roccograndi '10

Mariya & Richard Rogers

Samsung

School Tool Box LLC

David Scott

Martha & Stu Selonick

Nancy & Robert Shoemaker

Barney Smith

Kristen & Christopher Smith

Alison & Suketu Sonecha

Steel Building Specialists Inc.

Gwen Stoeger & Jason Herrman

Barbara Stroud

Shubhangi & Dave Thompson

Sherry L. Tippett & William Cummings

Stephen Vice

Williams Family Fund

Stuart Williams

Heather & Adam Winer

Andrew & Katie Wrobleswki

Carin Young

James & Tia Younger

Thank you to all our Donors!

Indian Creek School's Impact Report is a celebration of the generosity and commitment of our community from the 2024-25 fiscal year This report highlights the impactful contributions that support our mission to prepare students for work and life Your gifts help enhance the opportunities, programs, and educational experiences for all of our students

Thank you for your continued dedication to the Creek!

Gold Club: $250 to $999

Megan & Michael Achatz

Sarah Alexander '15

All Pro Team Sports

Anonymous

John & Stephanie Argilan

Jennifer & Brian Arnold

Charlotte S. Atkinson

Valeriani & Jeanette Bead

Daniel & Carolyn Beck

Cathy & Woods Bennett

Michael & Shannon Berry

Christine & Richie Berwanger

Nikki and Joe Betz

William & Robin Beusse

Blend 360

Katie (Mannix '96) & Nick Borgeson

James & Kaycie Bowen

Cherie Briggs

Lindley Bucci

Timothy Capurso

Angela & Michael Care

Wayne & Nancy Casper

Daniel & Shannon Casteel

Alison & Tor Christensen

Tracy Clarke & Henrique Schmitt

Robert & Janie Constantine

Chris & Donna Crouch

Caroline Duffy & Mike Waits

Anne (Crossman '97) & James Engles

Jennifer Fetcho

Christina & Robert Franetovich

Sarah Franey '88

Joanna & Ira Frankel

Freedom Field Hockey

Marc Freeman

Richard & Junae Giomundo

Alexander & Ellie Glass

Danny & Katie Haley

Harry & Denise Hamill

Stew & Sarah Harris

Ashley (McCarl '05) & Rachid Harrison

Lou Ann & Jim Hummer

Kevin & Susanne Johnson

Jared King & Courtney Hamill

Marcia (La Scola '85) & Richard Kokoski

Stacy (Macary '89) & Erik Kornmeyer

Derek Krein

Gayle & Justin Lemmon

Ludus LLC

Ashley & Ezra Lulandala

Jen & Bill Malachowski

Maryland Fleet Center

Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls

Joseph & Eileen Mattingly

Sean & Erin McNaboe

Gregory & Sarah Meehan

Michael & Carol Mercer

Joni & Ricky Miller

Darin & Deanah Mitchell

Mary & Perry Moutsos

Carrie & Dustin Nicholes

Roger '86 & Jen Porter

Chad Redmer & Sara Stires

Erika & Jonathan Rollins

Kristy Rooney & David Lubowitz

Alex & Lindsey Rouse

RPS Fab

Rona & Mickey Rubin

Ron Santos

Sarah & Andrew Schaufele

John & Katie Schieltz

James & Jennifer Seibert

Guillaume '96 & Lindsey Seynhaeve

Laure &d Denis Seynhaeve

Rachelle & Lewis Shapiro

Katherine J. Simmons

Daniel & Shannon Sonnett

Kevin & Karin Tator

Zoe Thomas

David & Crystal Walker

Lindsey Wareing & Travis Armbuster

Whitaker Willocks

Green Club: $1

to 250

Daniel Ablorh '22

Darlene & Michael Abraham

Ena & Crystal Agbedia

Michael & Maria Ahearn

Grae Albanese '31

Birgit Albrecht & Brian Ray

Christopher & Dara Alewine

Ramsey Alexander

John Allen '99

Sarah Allen '01

Ryan Andrews Anonymous

Kendall Arnold '27

AT&T

Abby Bach '23

Emma Bach '20

Melissa Ball

Melissa Barmash

Peter Barna '04

Arleigh Barr '32

Rachel & Craig Barr

Bria Bates

Abram & Allyson Bear

Jackson Bear '20

January Bear '27

William & Ellen Bell

Travis Belt '15

Brooks & Jillian Bennett

Jaime Benson & Sean Mulhern

Joshua & Carly Bereznay

Lesa & Thomas Bereznay

Tania Berkowitz

Peggy & Richard Berwanger

Christie & James Bogle

Monique Bolton

John & Kathleen Booth

Parker Booth '19

Sara Brenner

Michael & Hilary Briles

Jody Dulin Brooks '97

Candice & Larry Brown

Jennifer & Kevin Brown

Matt Bucci '12

Mary Ellen & Jeff Bunker

William Burson '22

Angela & Scott Campion

Class Notes

Class of 2016

Hannah Talcovitz Bishop

continued

Hannah was married to Stephen Bishop in August 2025

Skylar Van Gorkum

Skylar is currently a photography business owner on the Eastern Shore She documents the intimate and authentic moments of weddings and family life Now married (2021) Skylar welcomed her family’s first baby girl in 2023 (with their second on the way, due in February 2026!)

Class

of 2017

Molly Cahlink

Molly was married in November 2025. She teaches chorus at Annapolis Middle School, is the business manager for Youth Chorus of Annapolis, and is the Music Director for Talent Machines Penguin Project productions. Molly is a strong advocate for special education and the arts!

Phil Katcef

Phillip graduated trade school in 2024 and earned an Associate’s Degree in applied science with a focus in automotive technology He is now a lead technician for Cadillac, and will be getting married in November to his fiancé of nine years

Thank you to our Donors!

Oliver’30,Jake’30,Blake ’31,andJackson’30train aroundcampuswithCross CountrycoachMr.Bear.

Julie & Joseph Casalino

Lexi Casalino '30

John Casey

Nancy Caspe

Candace Cato

Chloe Cato '27

Marnie Cato

Neal & Nancy Chalkley

Stephanie Chambers '00

James & Tracey Chapman

Emily Choporis '16

Rowan Christensen '37

Carey & David Christie

Beth H. Christie '24

Noah Christie '28

Robin & Richard Church

Marika & Zechariah Clark

Melissa & Robert Cochrane

Lorna & Jeff Cockrell

Amy Coleman '93

Ann & Ty Collins

Solomon & Malissa Comissiong

Gerard Connolly

Andrew Constantine

Hazel Copeland

Mary Corkin

Samantha Couto '13

Diana Cox

Caryn and Kevin Craig

Elle Crowder '29

John & Marion Curry

Towanda & Derwood Curtis

Susan E. Darcey

Green Club:

Brennan Davis '14

Heather & Mark DeBuse

Yasmin & Adil Degani

Karen & Rod Dietrich

Brian Ecker & Wendy Colonna

Craig & Katie Eney

Peter & Lesley Eschinger

Troy & Lori Evans

Elizabeth & Ryan Fields

Stephanie & Kevin Flanagan

Roger & Tonya Flynn

Steve & Angela Forte

Lawrence Fowler '22

Ashton Franetovich '34

Grayson Franetovich '30

Dwayne & Stacy Frazier

Gavin Fridley '24

Selah & Russell Fugett

Marsha & Ric Gardner

Jenae Gates

Ben Gehle & Nick Konstantopoulos

David & Abby Geismar

Kristen & John Gilkey

Aristia & Andrew Glinka

Stephen & Hannah Goldstein

Dawn & John Goodburn

Eileen & James Griesser

Malissa Griffin

April & Mark Guevarra

Scott & Jennifer Hall

Carie & Stan Halle

Nicole & Jiovanni Harrison

Charmain & Robert Harvin

Sherry Hawkins

Valeri Haywood

Shannon & Ryan Hedges

Christine & Terry Hickey

Stephen Bloor & Mary Holland

Celia Hooks

Joshua Hubbell

Adriane Ikotun

John & Angie James

Michael & Anne Janac

Maria & Lance Jeffers

Katina & Darelle Joiner

Jabari Jones '20

Sharon & Thomas Judge

Emily Judson '14

Ed Kerner

Todd & Tiffany Kerr

Elizabeth & Scott Kettering

Taylor Keuleman '29

William Keuleman '28

Netsanet Kiffle & Hillu Beyene

Eloisa & Jim King

Paul & Mary Jo King

Jeanne Kinsella

Christopher & Anna Kirby

Sage Kirby '31

Glenn Klakring

Andrew Kokoski '26

Christopher Kokoski '22

Kaitlyn Kokoski '19

Limnyuy Konglim & Bertram Smith

Emma Kornmeyer '21

Sydney Kornmeyer '23

Thank you to our Donors!

Dimi Kosmakos and Zin Mehrabkhani

Dr. & Mrs. Mark Krushat

Corbyn Krywyj '31

Sergei Kuzmenchuk & Amisha Pandya

Aden Kweder '29

Deborah & Albert Kyle

Devin Elizabeth Kyle '22

Bob & Sarah Laffey

Alan & Stacy Lancaster

Jennifer Langone

Julia Leavitt '23

Josh Leedy '22

Lynn & Jazmin Leeks

Carter Licht '35

Michele & Anthony Longo

Anna Lopez

Kennedy Lyon '30

Kim & Ronnie Lyon

Heather & Robert MacCuspie

Renee & Paul Macey

Ryan Macey '32

Alex Machemer '29

Maggie Machemer

Reagan Machemer '26

Elena & Robb Mack

Annabella MacKenzie

Mitch MacKenzie

Thomas MacKenzie '29

Chandler Madison '14

Cate L. Malachowski '23

Annie & Rob Malone

Kevin Marbury '96

Avron Marcus

Green Club: $1

to 250

Marsha Marcus

Brian '93 & Brooke Margerum

Douglas & Patricia Margerum

Jack Margerum '27

Sophia Margerum '29

Nadine & Jesse Marks

Elizabeth & Edgar Mathias

Lauren McClain

Meghan McConville

Campbell McCormick '24

Matthew & Tiffany McCormick

Rooney McCormick '29

Scott & Sylvia McCormick

Stacey & Gordon McCoy

Kimberly McKeithen

Doug McNally

Meghan Mercer '17

Michael Mercer '20

Will Mercer '22

Brian Meyer

Grace Meyer '33

Alexandra Mirarchi '25

Francesca Mirarchi & Matthew Pugh

Liam Mixter '27

Madelyn Mixter '24

Agnes A. Newman

Freddie & Lloyd Newman

Jack Noble '23

Carson Noel '32

Zachary Noel '30

Isaiah Noreiga

Denis & Shannon O'Connell

Edmond O'Connell '22

Sophia O'Connell '25

Anita & Maurice O'Connor

Larissa Oktay '15

Dawson Olsen '13

Ellen & Christian Olsen

Valerie Orr

David & Tedi Osias

Andrew Ostrusky '98

Alexandra Owen '29

Michael Oyugi & Sydnye White-Oyugi

Griselda &d Daniel Padilla

Leeann Passaro

Maryjo Paz y Miño

Seth Perkins & Stephanie St. Claire

Teron & Stephanie Powell

Caroline Prevas '32

Julia Prevas '35

Annalisa Carino-Mixter & Michael Mixter

Christina Monteleone

Thomas & Tonya Montgomery

Eliza Moring '28

Christina M. Mueller

Tara Murphy

Sheida Nakhaei & Kamran Assadi

John & Stacy Neff

Lexi Nelson

Thank you to our Donors!

Susan & William Prevas

Mindy Probst

R&F Metals

Ava Rapacki '35

Charlee Rapacki '32

Marcus Rapacki '33

Brandon Reid '18

Daniel Reilly '17

JP Reilly '20

Dominic & Tracy Riley

Laurie & Mike Roberge

Garth Robinson

Anthony & Christina Roccograndi

Tricia & Steve Roth

Karcher Rouse '32

Wilson Rouse '30

Allyson & Brian Sapherstein

Doria Schauer-Owen & Brian Owen

Victoria Scheffer

Ingrid Schmidt

Debra Sechrest

Brian Seidleck

Stuart Selonick '03

Henry Shapiro

Kaya Shapiro

Preston Shapiro '25

Serena Shapiro '30

Tom & Jennifer Sheppard

Joseph & Ruthie Shrum

Megan Silk

Hadley Simmons '32

Jennifer Simmons '99

Green Club:

$1 to 250

Wills Simmons '35

Larry E. Smith

Michael Smith '29

Patrick Smith '23

Sophia Smith '21

Allan & Sue Solomon

Dan & Cynthia Spell

Ty Spencer '24

Josh & Jill Sprague

Sprouts Learning Hub

Jonathan '93 & Kelly Steele

Anthony & Sharon Stewart

Alonzo Strickland '18

Erika Strickland

Anders Strothman '94

Paula Sweterlitsch

Daniel Swope '22

Natalie Swope '24

Lisa Teeling

Cole Thompson '29

Kate Thompson '31

Will Thompson '36

Stuart Tilman

Taryn & Stephen Toman

Kiana Trent

Chloe Madison Triplett '07

Cole Turner '22

Esti Uribe-Martinez & Mike Gillespie

Lisa & Hayden Van Wormer

Helen & Francis VanSant

Barbara & Waldo Vazquez

Peter Mina & Cynthia Vega

Allison & Jeremiah Venuti

Olivia Vice '25

Alexandra Vranas Carita '97

Isaac Waesche '28

Sierra Waldman

Amanda Walsh

Corey Walsh

James Watts '30

Luke Pascal Watts '31

Millie Watts '37

Emily & Gary Weinfeld

Sara & Oliver White

Thank you to our Donors!

MembersoftheVarsity GirlsSoccerteamsmileas theycomeoffthefield afteravictoryoverAACS.

Green Club:

$1 to 250

Greg Whitesell

Amanda (Grimm '00) & Brett Wiegrefe

Jess Wilkinson

Colby Williams '19

Rachael (Church) Williams '13

Ashley Wilson '09

Meagan Wilson & Michael Pawluk

Jeffrey '88 & Tanya Wilson

Kelcey Wohlgemuth

Brad & Jill Woodward

Jamie Woodward '22

George Yost

Class Notes

Class of 2018

Cayla (Turner) Coleman

Cayla married Jonathan Coleman in October 2024

Niyah Harden

After attending The University of Maryland, Frances Carey School of Law, Niyah passed the bar exam with a high enough score to waive into any UBE jurisdiction

Alonzo Strickland

Alonzo received the Richard S. Actman Memorial Scholarship which is awarded to a student in the entry-level program who demonstrates leadership skill and/or potential and who demonstrates academic success in the program and clinical experiences. Alonzo is two clinical rotations away from earning his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Widener University

Alumni & Current Student Donors

Alumni from the 1980s

Katherine Porter-Reilly '84 & Daniel Reilly

Marcia (La Scola '85) & Richard Kokoski

Roger '86 & Jen Porter

Sarah Franey '88

Jeffrey '88 & Tanya Wilson

Stacy (Macary '89) & Erik Kornmeyer

Alumni from the 1990s

Chris '90 & Kristin Grizzell

Amy Coleman '93

Brian '93 & Brooke Margerum

Adam '93 & Courtney Shampaine

Jonathan '93 & Kelly Steele

Stephen '94 & Holly Margerum

Anders Strothman '94

1990s, continued

Katie (Mannix '96) & Nick Borgeson

Kevin Marbury '96

Robert '96 & Caroline Pascal

Guillaume '96 & Lindsey Seynhaeve

Jody Dulin Brooks '97

Anne (Crossman '97) & James Engles

Carrie (Marbury '97) & Tom Simmons '97

Alexandra Vranas Carita '97

Andrew Ostrusky '98

John Allen '99

Helen (Selonick '99) & James Prevas

Jennifer Simmons '99

Thank you to our Donors!

Alumni & Current Student Donors

Alumni from the 2000s

Stephanie Chambers '00

Ashley (Paschall '00) & Ethan Liebermann

Amanda (Grimm '00) & Brett Wiegrefe

Sarah Allen '01

Stuart Selonick '03

Nicholas Zazulia '03

Peter Barna '04

Ashley (McCarl '05) & Rachid Harrison

Chloe Madison Triplett '07

Julius C. Smith, III '09

Ashley Wilson '09

Alumni from the 2010s

Alex Almy '10 & Hannah Kleiman '10

Siena Roccograndi '10

Matt Bucci '12

Samantha Couto '13

Dawson Olsen '13

Rachael (Church) Williams '13

Brennan Davis '14

Emily Judson '14

Chandler Madison '14

Sarah Alexander '15

Travis Belt '15

Larissa Oktay '15

Emily Choporis '16

Meghan Mercer '17

Daniel Reilly '17

Brandon Reid '18

Alonzo Strickland '18

Parker Booth '19

Kaitlyn Kokoski '19

Colby Williams '19

Alumni from the 2020s

Emma Bach '20

Jabari Jones '20

Michael Mercer '20

JP Reilly '20

Emma Kornmeyer '21

Sophia Smith '21

Daniel Ablorh '22

William Burson '22

Lawrence Fowler '22

Christopher Kokoski '22

Devin Elizabeth Kyle '22

Josh Leedy '22

Will Mercer '22

Edmond O'Connell '22

Daniel Swope '22

Cole Turner '22

Jamie Woodward '22

Abby Bach '23

Sydney Kornmeyer '23

Julia Leavitt '23

Cate L. Malachowski '23

Jack Noble '23

Patrick Smith '23

Jackson Bear '24

Beth H. Christie '24

Gavin Fridley '24

Campbell McCormick '24

Madelyn Mixter '24

Ty Spencer '24

Natalie Swope '24

Alexandra Mirarchi '25

Sophia O'Connell '25

Preston Shapiro '25

Olivia Vice '25

Students & Alumni from the

2020s

Andrew Kokoski '26

Reagan Machemer '26

Kendall Arnold '27

January Bear '27

Chloe Cato '27

Jack Margerum '27

Liam Mixter '27

Noah Christie '28

William Keuleman '28

Eliza Moring '28

Isaac Waesche '28

Elle Crowder '29

Taylor Keuleman '29

Aden Kweder '29

Alex Machemer '29

Thomas MacKenzie '29

Sophia Margerum '29

Rooney McCormick '29

Alexandra Owen '29

Michael Smith '29

Cole Thompson '29

Class Notes

continued

Class of 2019

Samantha Oliver

In 2024, Samantha graduated from Slippery Rock University with my BFA in Dance with two concentrations, Performance and Choreography and Studio Ownership and Dance Entrepreneurship She is currently choreographing for various studios and dance teams as well as teaching dance at various studios Samantha recently accepted a contract to dance professionally with a dance company, Kinetics Dance Theatre Professional Company

Shannon Sullivan

Shannon made her Maryland professional debut as Pauline in Saturday Night Fever at Toby’s Dinner Theater in Columbia, MD from August 22 to November 2, 2025

Students & Alumni from the 2030s

Lexi Casalino '30

Grayson Franetovich '30

Kennedy Lyon '30

Zachary Noel '30

Wilson Rouse '30

Serena Shapiro '30

James Watts '30

Grae Albanese '31

Sage Kirby '31

Corbyn Krywyj '31

Luke Pascal Watts '31

Arleigh Barr '32

Ryan Macey '32

Carson Noel '32

Caroline Prevas '32

Charlee Rapacki '32

Karcher Rouse '32

Hadley Simmons '32

Kate Thompson '31

Grace Meyer '33

Marcus Rapacki '33

Ashton Franetovich '34

Carter Licht '35

Julia Prevas '35

Ava Rapacki '35

Wills Simmons '35

Will Thompson '36

Rowan Christensen '37

Millie Watts '37

Alumni & Current Student Donors

Young Alumni Donors (0-4 Years Out)

Daniel Ablorh '22

Abby Bach '23

William Burson '22

Beth H. Christie '24

Lawrence Fowler '22

Gavin Fridley '24

Christopher Kokoski '22

Sydney Kornmeyer '23

Devin Elizabeth Kyle '22

Julia Leavitt '23

Josh Leedy '22

Cate L. Malachowski '23

Campbell McCormick '24

Will Mercer '22

Alexandra Mirarchi '25

Madelyn Mixter '24

Jack Noble '23

Edmond O'Connell '22

Sophia O'Connell '25

Preston Shapiro '25

Patrick Smith '23

Ty Spencer '24

Daniel Swope '22

Natalie Swope '24

Cole Turner '22

Olivia Vice '25

Jamie Woodward '22

Class Notes

Class of 2020

Emma Bach

Emma graduated from Elon University in May of 2024 with a Bachelors in Public Health and Policy Studies, and worked as an Americorp Lead for North Carolina Fellow with the UNC School Of Government Emma also worked for Lee County Government helping them spend and allocate their Opioid Settlement Funds She is now a full time student at UNC Gillings earning her Masters in Public Health (Health Policy) and working part time as the Opioid Settlement Coordinator in Lee County.

James Moutsos

James released his short animated film Kid Nature which won the award for Best Short Film at the Shorts Shorts Film Festival in New York in September 2025

Class of 2021

Leah Corckran

Leah graduated in May from Smith College with a degree in Biology and a focus in ecology and conservation This past summer Leah worked in Northwestern Montana at the Flathead Lake Biological Station studying animal behavior and the evolutionary context of that behavior

Ellie Sharma

Ellie graduated from Converse University in May 2025, and was offered a full time position with Nestlé USA in their Finance Management Trainee Program Ellie works at the Pizza Factory in Little Chute, Wisconsin where they make DiGiorno and Jacks (and sometimes CPK) The factory is the primary producer of our Pizza Divison!

Class of 2023

Cate Malachowski

Cate made her professional stage debut at the Broadway Theatre of Pitman in Pitman, New Jersey as she performed as Jellylorum from October 24 to November 16, 2025

Thank you to our

CASE FOR SUPPORT

CASE FOR SUPPORT

INVESTING IN PEOPLE (ENDOWMENT)

The Indian Creek faculty is the heart of our school. By investing in their professional development and well-being, we ensure that current students and future generations receive the highest quality education, graduating well-prepared for college and ready to make a positive difference in the world Your support will enable ICS to provide ongoing training, competitive salaries, and wellness programs, attracting and retaining premier educators

UNPARALLELED CAMPUS (MASTER PLAN)

Your capital giving will allow us to confidently plan and accomplish major campus improvements and expansions. This includes new buildings, enhanced learning spaces, and upgraded facilities that adapt to the ever-changing educational landscape. Your contribution will help secure a stable and sustainable future for ICS, ensuring that every student thrives in an optimal learning environment

PREMIER PROGRAMS (CREEK FUND)

With a well-supported faculty and a financially strong foundation, Indian Creek can offer an array of premier academic and extracurricular programs From state-of-the-art technology in classrooms to expansive arts and sports programs, your generosity directly enriches the educational experience of ICS students Your gift will enhance these experiences, and fuel the School’s mission to inspire curiosity, connection, and authenticity, providing students with the tools and opportunities to reach their highest potential

As the premier independent school in the Annapolis area, Indian Creek is dedicated to inspiring authenticity, connection, and curiosity so every student can thrive

To fulfill the School's mission and vision, we have established an endowment and engaged in campus master planning With ongoing support from our annual Creek Fund, these efforts will create a lasting legacy, enabling every student to fully realize their potential in scholarship and life

Your support is not just a gift; it is a commitment to the Creek community, the next generation of students, and the future Indian Creek’s strength has allowed for steady growth throughout the School’s history and our goals have never been more ambitious than they are today Now is the time for the Creek to soar to new heights!

SeniorsLiam,Tristen, Jordon,andMaddy enjoytheirlastpep rallyasICSstudents.
Maggie’39andJack’39explorethe changesthathappenonCreek’s woodedcampuswhentheweather turnscold.

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Creek Story Magazine - Winter 2025-26 by indian_creek_school - Issuu