Derryfield Today, Winter 2009

> The Breakthrough Connection> Bridges to Community

Winter Carnival

todayNEWS FROM

WINTER TERM 2009

Derryfield

THE DERRYFIELD SCHOOL

Fahrenheit 451The Derryfield Players presented Fahrenheit 451 this winter in the Performing ArtsAuditorium.

contentsTable of

www.derryfield.org 1

Derryfield Today is published by the Advancement Office at The Derryfield School. If you note errors, please notify us at603.669.4524, ext. 2261 or send an email to [email protected]. Correspondence may be addressed to: Director ofCommunications, The Derryfield School, 2108 River Road, Manchester, NH 03104-1396. The Derryfield School welcomes students of any race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin. The School does not discriminate in its hiring, admission policies, or programs on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, or disabilities.

features

departments

WINTER 2009

FEATURES

The Breakthrough Connection 12by Annie Branch

Bridges to Community 18by Scott Morgan ’92 and Laura Reis ’99

Kate Erskine 25by Diane Allen

DEPARTMENTS

Message from the Head 2Around Campus 4Cougar Athletics 8Breakthrough Spotlight 10Update on Alumni 16Life After Derryfield 18Faculty Profile 25

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Steven BurkeChairBedford, NH

Nigel DonovanTreasurerBedford, NH

Craig N. SellersHead of SchoolManchester, NH

Cathryn Vaughn ’91SecretaryManchester, NH

John Allard ’83Manchester, NH

Bradley Benson ’78Derry, NH

Robert ChinWindham, NH

Christine CikaczChester, NH

James DavisNew Boston, NH

Dr. Louis FinkBedford, NH

Preston Hunter ’98Bedford, NH

Laurie LampBedford, NH

Paul LeBlancManchester, NH

Donna K. LenckiCandia, NH

David LockwoodManchester, NH

Thomas MansonNew Boston, NH

Constantinos MokasManchester, NH

Christopher MorganAmherst, NH

Jeffrey PollockManchester, NH

Janice RomanowskyHampstead, NH

Richard Sigel ’81Manchester, NH

William ZornHooksett, NH

DERRYFIELD TODAY

Annie Branch Director of Communications

Diane AllenStaff Writer

Griffin York & KrauseDesign

Puritan Press, Inc.Printing

CONTRIBUTORS

Kate Erskine

Stacy Beaudoin, Catalina Benech ’11, Kevin Finefrock ’03, Noah Goldstein ’13, Kate Hanna, Elizabeth Richey ’03

Marcus Hurlbut

Scott Morgan ’92 and Laura Reis ’99

COMMUNICATIONS BOARD

Diane Allen

Whitney Lockwood Berdy ’00

John Bouton

Annie Branch

Laurie Lamp

Bianca Nicolosi ’09

ADVANCEMENT

Diane Allen Alumni Coordinator

Lori Evans ’00Director of Annual Giving

Gail GordonAdvancement Office Coordinator

Alice Handwerk Director of Donor Relations

Jennifer Melkonian Assistant Head for Advancement

FRONT COVER: Middle school students load up aDerryfield bus with diapers collected for the NewHorizons Food Pantry during Winter Carnival.

INSIDE FRONT COVER: Alex Michaud ’12 and StephHogan ’09 in a scene from Fahrenheit 451.

BACKGROUND: Seventh grader Memphis Dougherty’14 tests her rope climbing skills in the gymnasium.

TOP: Librarian Betty Jipson takes in a book during thewinter term Reading Respite.

A fter a year and a half of meeting a variety ofDerryfield supporters up and down the east coast,Cary and I recently ventured out to Chicago and

hosted an alumni event there. It was terrific to experiencethe same passion and commitment, so present within aneasy drive from Manchester, more than 1,000 miles from ourcampus.

Alumni gatherings are usually exuberant affairs where one question—simple inquiries such as “Tell me aboutyour teachers” or “What did you learnabout yourself?” or “Why do you thinkthe experience still has such meaningfor you?”—has a way of beginning theevening and leading on to freewheelingflights of nostalgia, reflection, and mem‑ories not accessed for years. The gather‑ings are always great fun. When I askedone of the above questions to a youngalumna at our Chicago gathering herresponse surprised me, uplifted me, and—after some furtherquestions—left me feeling enormously proud and grateful.She said, “The Breakthrough program changed my life.”

She did not go on to college to become a teacher, neitherdid she move directly into helping those who, as Break‑through’s mission statement indicates, come from limitedopportunities. Rather, the intense work ethic of the program,combined with the sense of doing such profoundly mean‑ingful service, opened her eyes to a new way of thinkingabout careers, and how one can find meaning while also

making a living. I have found the phrase “the teacher arriveswhen the student is ready” to be true. In this instance, theteacher was the entirety of Breakthrough Manchester at TheDerryfield School—its mission, its vision, and the exception‑al students and teachers who make up the program. Ourschool’s desire and determination to partner with such asplendid program speaks volumes about our mutual

awareness of the role of service in an excellent education.

I hope you enjoy this issue ofDerryfield Today, and that from it youdevelop a deeper sense of howBreakthrough Manchester has come tobe such an essential part of our school.Please let us know how the Break‑through program changed your life—clearly, you will not be the only onewith that sentiment.

But I will close not with a request,but with a statement. I mentioned

above that, upon hearing this young woman’s story, myreaction included a strong sense of gratitude. To clarify—on behalf of The Derryfield school, our heartfelt thanks toMarcus Hurlbut, the fourth Head of School, who had thevision to bring the Breakthrough Manchester program toDerryfield. In this way, you, too, have changed our lives.

headMessage from the

2 Derryfield Today – Winter 2009

“...the intense work ethic of the

program, combined with the

sense of doing such profoundly

meaningful service, opened

her eyes to a new way of

thinking about careers, and

how one can find meaning

while also making a living.”

Craig N. SellersHead of School

Looking to the Future

APRIL

Breakthrough Saturday 18

GMCC Network PM 23

Stardust Diner Benefit Dinner 29

Lyceum Gallery Reception 29

Raising Resilient Children and Adolescents 29

MAY

Founders’ Day 1

Admission Information Night 7

Prom 8

Lyceum Gallery Reception 15

Spring Concert 15

Breakthrough Saturday 16

Awards Day 29

JUNE

All-School Assembly and Picnic 10

Eighth Grade Send Off 10

Commencement 13

W E D N E S D A Y , A P R I L 2 9

campuson

A P R I L – J U N E

calendareventsIMAGES FROM WINTER CARNIVAL WEEKENDFor more photos, visit our online gallery in the ‘Exploring Derryfield’ section of www.derryfield.org.


Clockwise from top right: Laurel Devino participates in a card trick during an assembly. n Chris Hettler dressed

up for pirate vs. ninja day. n Camille Smith ’09 tries her hand at juggling. n Devin Walker ’11 takes a shot in

dodgeball. n Pirate Meghan Johnson ’15 gets ready for some dodgeball. n Curtis Lamp ’09 helps out with a

death-defying juggling trick during an assembly.

VAPA DINNER SHOW

4:30 – 7:00 p.m. n McIninch Room

Stardust Diner: A benefit dinner for the NYC Concert

Choir trip and the Moore Center.

ART RECEPTION

6:00 – 7:00 p.m. n Lyceum Gallery

Advanced Studio Art Presents: AWESOMENESS.

RAISING RESILIENT CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. n Performing Arts Auditorium

A presentation by Dr. Robert Brooks, one of today's

leading speakers on the themes of resilience, self-

esteem, motivation, and family relationships.

campus


STORIES

Growing in Service

First Impressions

On the Stage

Scientific Thought

Annual Fund Update

Growing in Service To be a “lifer” at Derryfield means differentthings to different people. For seniorsEmily Johnson, Aviva Paiste, and SandyStonebraker, it has meant finding a causeto support in middle school and growingwith it until it has literally become part ofwho they are.

When Sandy came to Derryfield as asixth grader, she joined the service organi‑zation known as Builders’ Club. A newcounselor, Jo Davidson, was preparing fora humanitarian trip to a Romanian orphan‑age and asked members of the Builders’Club to help her with contributions ofhand‑made sock dolls and knitted scarves.Builders’ Club advisor Candy Chaplin washappy to organize her group in making the dolls and scarves, and Sandy proudlycontributed one of each. The followingyear, new students Aviva and Emily joinedBuilders’ Club and became energized in the

Romania project. While they were makingtheir first contributions, Sandy was step‑ping up her game.

As the years progressed and the girlsgrew along with their giving spirits, so didthe scope of their contributions. This year,not only have the girls been busy all yearlong making dolls and scarves in prepara‑tion for the March trip, they have also askedtheir families and friends to contribute.Announcements at all‑school assemblieshave spiked interest in the entire studentbody, and these three girls have been morethan happy to teach anyone to knit. A“Tree of Hope” was posted in both themiddle and upper schools, and contribu‑tions continued to crowd the counselor’soffice right up until Mrs. Davidson’s departure for Romania during spring break.

As part of our global education initia‑tive, Sandy and Emily accompanied Mrs.Davidson this year. We caught up with herbefore she left. “Each of these girls is dedi‑

Around

SCHOLASTIC ART CONTESTCongratulations to the following Derryfield

artists whose art was recognized by the

2008 Scholastic Art Awards.

Gold Key:Colette Chretien (2) Painting & Drawing

Shireen Patel (3) Design: Apparel, Drawing,

& Mixed Media

Julia Cowenhoven Photography - Analog

Olivia Donahue Drawing

Silver Key:Aviva Paiste (2) Photography - Digital &

Analog

Everett Baker Photography - Analog

Ali George Drawing

Honorable Mention:Claudia Camerino Photography - Analog

Arthur Krogman Printmaking

Everett Simon Photography - Digital

Shireen Patel Painting

Ali George Drawing

Elise Shattuck Photography - AnalogNow seniors, Sandy, Emily, and Aviva are still involvedwith the Romania service project.

Emily, Sandy, and Aviva when they were in seventhgrade, posing with quilts to go to Romania.

cated to service both in and out of theDerryfield community; it is a part ofwho they are. They are each compas‑sionate beings who, over the past sixyears, have sent their love to peoplethey have never met. I am thrilled to betaking them on this journey of ser‑vice.” Commenting on her excitementover finally being able to meet the chil‑dren, Sandy said, “This will definitelybe a part of my life forever.” Emily hadbeen gathering her art supplies as shewas preparing to spend time teachingarts and crafts at the orphanage. Sheagreed that after actually being there,the project would be impossible to for‑get, even after graduation in June.

Aviva stayed home for the break,and although a part of her wishes thatshe had been with Sandy and Emily inRomania, she was there in spirit. Avivaplans to remain involved in serviceprojects after graduation, but willprobably not limit herself to theRomania project. “There are so manypeople who need help, and I’d like tocontribute wherever I find I can makea difference.” In the meantime, Avivahas spent a good deal of time this yearknitting, teaching knitting, and helpingout in any way she could.

To Emily, Aviva, and Sandy, being a“lifer” at Derryfield means more thanjust being a student here for six orseven years. It means taking the spiritof giving that they have learned andmaking it an integral part of their lives.It means gaining the confidence theyneed to be purposeful members of theircommunities. It means that caring forothers has become a lasting way of life.

First ImpressionsThe stage was set and the podium

was low—very low. Students, faculty,and staff made their way into the audi‑torium and waited to see why thepodium was set this way. Then JohnRobinson ’86 appeared and made hisfirst impression, an impression thatwas to be dispelled within about twominutes.

John has a birth defect that left himwith a normal sized torso but withvery short arms and legs. He realizedlong ago that in order to succeed inlife, he would have to take the obsta‑cles he had been given and turn theminto opportunities. When he wanted toget his driver’s license, he had to huntdown an instructor in Jaffrey who hadspecial equipment for handicappeddrivers. Even everyday events presentchallenges for John. He invited his stu‑dent audience to put their elbowstogether and try to reach the button onthe top of their pants. He then askedthem to imagine having to get helpfrom a teacher every time they hadto use the restroom. Knowing hewould need to be “clothing indepen‑dent” before going to college, Johnset about altering his clothes toinclude Velcro strips. Anotherproblem solved.

John realized he would needto take full responsibility forhimself if he wanted tolive independently andbe a productive memberof society. His dedication toreaching these goals provedfruitful in both his personal

and professional life. John considershimself a good husband and father tothree children. A graduate of SyracuseUniversity, he is the marketing directorfor a PBS affiliate in Albany, NY. Thereis currently a documentary film in production about his life and accom‑plishments.

John Robinson ’86 inspired us allwith his humorous stories, his outlookon life, and his ability to dispel firstimpressions and turn challenges intoopportunities. His final advice to resistcomplaining about what we don’t haveand be grateful for what we do have inour lives led to a spontaneous standingovation from the entire Derryfieldcommunity. There is little doubt thathis visit has added strength andcourage to thefabric of ourown lives.


AROUND CAMPUS

John Robinson ’86 speaksabout his experience atDerryfield.

On the StageThe Derryfield Players had anothersuccessful season on the stage of theNancy Boettiger Theatre this winter.The season started off with a thought‑provoking performance of Fahrenheit451, based on the Cold War‑era bookby Ray Bradbury. The actors handledthe complex dialog with great skill,conveying a disturbing image of whatlife would look like without literatureand free thought. Alex Michaud ’12delivered a powerful performance as afireman who begins to questionauthority when he reads the pages ofthe books he is charged with burning.Despite a shortage of rehearsal time,


AROUND CAMPUS

K E E P I N G U P - T O - D A T E

derryfield newsonlineWant to know more about what’s happening at Derryfield every day? Check out the online news portal by clicking on ‘News& Events’ on www.derryfield.org. Here are the introductions of a sampling of stories from the winter term.

Sixth Graders and The Cultural CaféWrapping up the seventh year of theCultural Café with Manchester’s immi‑grant population, Derryfield’s sixthgraders held their final meetings with

their “buddies” from across the globe on March 10 and 11this year...

Winter Term Athletes HonoredAs is Derryfield tradition, the last Mondaymorning all‑school assembly is dedicatedto presenting athletic awards to deservingwinter athletes. On Monday, March 9, ten

students were so honored...

Rynearson Studies Urban Education Reform“If President Obama were to name youSecretary of Education, what would beyour first initiative in that role?” This was a question posed by librarian Betty Jipson

during a Q&A session after a presentation by Anne Rynearson’09 of her independent study on urban education reform...

The Lyceum Gallery Presents Off the PressThe 2009 early spring show in the LyceumGallery at The Derryfield School featuresmonotypes by two New Hampshire seacoast artists, Annick Bouvron‑Gromek

and Doris Rice...

Dustin Kahn ’10, Andrew Voss ’12, and Adrian McLeod ’10 serve on the guard in Fahrenheit 451.

the show moved seamlessly, and effec‑tively delivered its powerful messageto the audience.

The second show of the season wasa spectacular production of the rockmusical Aida. Based on Verdi’s operaand featuring the music of Elton John,Aida tells the story of a capturedNubian princess (played by StephHogan ’09) who falls in love with thecaptain of the Egyptian army (playedby Marcel Robinson ’09) and mustchoose between her country and hertrue love. The show’s vivid costumesand dazzling choreography were notto be outshined by the vocal talent of

the performers.

Scientific ThoughtDerryfield junior Katherine Grisanziowaited nervously with 114 other stu‑dents for the judging to be complete. In the end, she left the sixth annualNew Hampshire Science andEngineering Exposition with a firstplace trophy.

Held on the Concord campus ofNew Hampshire Technical Institute onMarch 12, the Expo showcased theefforts of students from twelve areahigh schools. According to SeacoastOnline, examples of projects exhibitedranged from a study on milfoil to theanalysis of an ELISA of serum frommice immunized with Crotalus atroxrattlesnake venom to a report on thephotodegradation of computer ink to aproject determining if the human bodyis electrical enough to be a battery.

Katherine began work on her projectin September 2007, studying the relationship between strength offriendship and empathy by designing a survey and collecting data from herpeers to determine if those who hadmore friends also had more empathy.After doing a statistical analysis of thisdata, she concluded that friendlier

students had more empathy. Herinvestigation won first place

in the Behavioral Sciencecategory.

Katherine’s study includ‑ed over 100 students: 45middle school students fromBreakthrough Manchesterand the Ross A. LurgioMiddle School in Bedford;45 high school students

from The Derryfield School; and 27incarcerated students. During the ana‑lytical process, she uncovered severalareas worthy of a follow‑up study,which she just may undertake for nextyear’s competition. In the meantime,Katherine is focusing on her schoolwork and considering colleges anduniversities that will help her achieveher goals in the world of psychologyand psychiatry.


AROUND CAMPUS

S P E C I A L R E Q U E S T

updateannual fund

Due to the incredible generosity of our alumni, parents,

and friends, the 2008–2009 Annual Fund is making great

strides towards achieving its goal of $440,000. As of

March 31, 2009, with gifts and pledges totaling $356,151,

we have reached 81 percent of our goal. We still need your

help!

Derryfield does much more than welcome monetary

contributions from its parents, alumni, and friends: the

School depends on them. Gifts large and small, from each

and every donor, make a tremendous difference in the

education of bright, talented, multi-faceted Derryfield

students. To those who have made your commitment to

Derryfield’s Annual Fund, thank you. If you have not yet

made a gift please know that your support is more critical

than ever to Derryfield’s success. Please join your class-

mates, fellow parents, and friends in making a gift today

by clicking “Giving” at www.derryfield.org. Thank you for

doing your part to ensure Derryfield’s distinctive role in

providing opportunities for students to be their best.Katie Baroff ’10 as Amneris in Aida.

Varsity Nordic SkiingWomen: 4th at State Championships (Div. IV)Men: 5th at State Championships (Div. IV)Patrick Rachel ’09, Captain, 8th at States (Freestyle),

Class of 1970 AwardKaitlin Fink ’11, Captain; All-Conference; States: 3rd

(Classical), 2nd (Freestyle); Meet of Champions: 4th (Classical); Class of 1970 Award; Team NH for New England HS Championships

Matthew Porat ’10, 6th at States (Classical)

Varsity Alpine SkiingWomen: 2nd at State Championships (Div. IV)Men: 2nd at State Championships (Div. IV)Claudia Camerino ’09, All-Conference, Class of 1970 AwardMackenzie Fleming ’09, All-Conference, Class of 1970 AwardCarla Nyquist ’12, Meet of Champions: 4th (GS), Div. IV

State Champion, Team NH for Eastern HS ChampionshipsBrandon Wilson ’10, State Championships: 3rd (GS)

Boys’ Varsity BasketballSeason Record: 12-6NH Championship Quarter-Finalists (Class S)Granite State Conference Sportsmanship AwardMickey Cunliffe ’09, Co-Captain, All-AcademicChris Dupuis ’09, All-AcademicKemal Kadic ’09, All-AcademicJohn Kalliel ’09, All-AcademicMatt McCormick ’09, Co-Captain, All-State (2nd Team),

All-Conference, All-Academic, Class of 1970 Award

Girls’ Varsity BasketballSeason Record: 13-5NH Championship Quarter-Finalists (Class S)Kelsey Durant ’10, All-AcademicAndrea Green ’10, Co-Captain, All-State (2nd Team),

All-AcademicBethany Kalliel ’12, All-State (HM)Camille Smith ’09, Co-Captain, All-State (HM),

All-Academic, Class of 1970 Award

HockeySeason Record: 9-2-2Ryan Clauson ’09, Co-Captain, Class of 1970 AwardCurtis Lamp ’09, Co-Captain, Class of 1970 Award

Varsity SwimmingWomen: 4-18; 8th at State Championships (Div. II)Men: 6-16; 5th at State Championships (Div. II);

2nd at Meet of ChampionsLeah Burke ’09, States: 2nd (200 IM), 5th (500 Freestyle);

Meet of Champions: 4th (200 IM)Garrett Mayo ’11, States: 3rd (1M Diving); Meet of

Champions: 2nd (1M Diving)Adam Spierer ’09, Co-Captain, States: 3rd (100

Breaststroke), Meet of Champions: 4th (100 Yard Breaststroke), Class of 1970 Award

Meg Steer ’09, Co-Captain, Class of 1970 AwardIan Will ’11, States: 2nd (50 Freestyle), 3rd (100 Butterfly);

Meet of Champions: 1st (50 Freestyle), 4th (100 Butterfly)

Winter wrap-upACADEMIC AND ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE

The NHIAA recognized eleven Derryfield

seniors for achieving academic and ath-

letic excellence at the New Hampshire

High School Athletic/Academic Award

Program.

n Leah Burke

n Colette Chretien

n Carsten Christandl

n Ryan Clauson

n Christina de Bruyn Kops

n Katherine DiPastina

n Christopher Dupuis

n Bonnie Frieden

n John Kalliel

n Lydia MacKenzie

n Stephen Reichheld

The requirements for both programs

state that students must have

maintained a B+ average, lettered

in two varsity sports, and been involved

in leadership or service.

CORRECTION: In the fall issue, Kim

Pollock ’11 should have been noted for

earning All-State honors (1st Team) for

the Girls’ Varsity Soccer, rather than All

Conference honors. Tayla Satkwich ’11

was omitted from the list for earning All-

State honors (2nd Team) for Girls’

Varsity Field Hockey.

athletics


Cougar

OPPOSITE (clockwise from top right): Ian Will ’11 swims thebutterfly. n Anna Stuart ’09 tucks in for a sprint to the finish.n Meg Steer ’09 comes up for air during the crawl. n KaitlinFink ’11 pushes off the start in a nordic meet. n Zoe Sobin’11 passes the ball in a game against Hinsdale. n MatthewPorat ’10 sprints for the finish in a nordic meet. n MattMcCormick ’09 squeezes by a defender in a game againstSunapee. n Ryan Clauson ’09 goes for the puck in a face-off. ABOVE: J.D. Donovan ’09 takes a turn in an alpine meet.

COUGAR ATHLETICS


Reflections on the Early YearsIn the summer of 1989, nearly 20 years ago,I happened to come across an article inEducation Week describing a unique programat University High School in San Franciscocalled Summerbridge (now known asBreakthrough). The basic components ofthis program were immediately appealingto me—summer support for “at risk” middle school students, an opportunity for high school and college students toexperience firsthand the joys of teaching,and a collaborative effort between publicand private schools that really worked.Armed with this article, a brief conversationwith Lois Loofbourrow, the founding direc‑

tor in San Francisco, anda passionate belief thatthis program wouldmake an enormous difference in the lives ofall the people it wouldtouch, I returned toschool that fall deter‑mined to bring this program to Derryfield.

As I have reflected on the founding ofBreakthrough Manchester, I am somewhatamazed that we were able to get the pro‑gram off the ground so quickly. The basicconcept behind Breakthrough coincidedwith my desire for Derryfield itself to playa more vital role in the local community,

and I believed that critical to launching asuccessful Breakthrough program wouldbe the support of the Mayor and theManchester public school system, especial‑ly the Superintendent. Truth be told, I wasworried about this, but I was pleasantlysurprised when the idea was greeted witha warm and supportive reception both inthe main office and in some of the local ele‑mentary schools. I recall well that first con‑versation with the principal of Beech StreetSchool who said, at the conclusion of ourtalk, that this was the kind of program shehad waited for her whole life. That prettymuch summed it up for me as well!

The early years of Breakthrough wereboth challenging and exhilarating. TheBoard of Trustees enthusiastically agreed togive it a go, and armed with a $25,000start‑up grant from the Inter‑PacificCorporation, we went looking for the bestdirector in the country and found her inLynn Sorensen, a native Californian whosomewhat reluctantly agreed to come tocold and faraway New Hampshire to directwhat would become the third program in the country. We started small but soonrealized that within the City of Manchesterthere were many students who fit the pro‑file of “Breakthrough kids.” As we spoke tofifth grade students in local elementaryschools about a program that wouldrequire a six‑week commitment for two


HAVE AN EXTRA ROOM?

NEED A HOUSESITTER?

HOST A TEACHER FOR BREAKTHROUGH!

We are seeking approximately eight

families who would be willing to host some

of the responsible and remarkable college

students who will teach at Breakthrough

this summer. They hail from schools like

Dartmouth, Northeastern, UNC Chapel Hill,

UC Berkeley, Stanford, Mount Holyoke, and

Rhodes.

Over the past eighteen years, Derryfield

homestays have provided wonderful ways

for out-of-town teachers to feel at home in

our community while giving area families a

unique and important way to support

Breakthrough

Manchester.

Please consider

hosting a

remarkable

young college

student this

summer.

Contact Kate

Erskine at

603.641.9426 or [email protected].

Our summer session for faculty runs from

June 18 to August 13, 2009.

spotlightBreakthrough

consecutive summers, complete withdemanding academic work and a cou‑ple hours of homework a night (in thesummer!), we marveled at the look inthe eyes of some who moved forwardin their chairs, listened intently, andsaid to us that they were ready andeager to take on this challenge. Ofcourse, there were also those whoheard the expectations and immediate‑ly checked out. They thought we werenuts!

I have often used the term “at risk”to describe the students who come toBreakthrough. They are not suchbecause they lack talent or intellect orbecause they are emotionally unstable,but rather because for these children

summer is a very risky proposition.Too old for baby sitters, too young forjobs, children in low income familieswhere no one has ever gone to collegeare not too young for drugs, alcohol,pregnancy, and in some cases, gangs.Often left alone for long hours duringthe summer, these students are envi‑ronmentally at risk, and for some,Breakthrough is a way out of a down‑ward spiral that has and continues todoom many young people in townsand cities all across the country. Ilearned early on that we can’t reachthem all, but we can and must do ourvery best with those whose lives we

are blessed to touch. It has been one of the great joys of mylife to have been part of the creation ofthree Breakthrough programs. Eachsite is different but the issues are basi‑cally the same, and the impact oneveryone involved is almost alwayslife‑changing. My daughter Kate ’93 isa teacher today largely because of herBreakthrough experience. Better still,she, like so many who have been partof this program, has a deep apprecia‑tion for the powerful difference educa‑tion can make in the lives of thosemany students who start the race oflife far behind the starting line.

Since those early days, I trulybelieved that the power and purpose ofBreakthrough would become a beaconof hope for young people and an effec‑tive and enduring force in the world ofeducation. In my opinion, there is nodoubt that the Manchester programhas been the shining star in theBreakthrough constellation, and I amdeeply proud to be a part of the histo‑ry of this wonderful program. I offermy heartfelt congratulations to allmembers of The Derryfield Schoolcommunity for your resounding success.

With respect, admiration, and appreciation,

Marcus D. HurlbutFourth Head of The Derryfield School

www.breakthroughmanchester.org 11

BREAK THROUGH SPOTLIGHT

ABOVE: Noah Goldstein ’13 enjoys a moment at Breakthrough’s Spirit Day. OPPOSITE: Skyler Mosenthalworks with Brian and Malika in a summer classroom.

"I recall well that first conversation with the principal of Beech

Street School who said, at the conclusion of our talk, that this was

the kind of program she had waited for her whole life."

connectionThe Breakthrough

The Importance of Breakthrough in the Derryfield Communityby Annie Branch

Catalina Benech ’11Breakthrough has been one of the mosthelpful, positive, and fun experiences Ihave ever had. Coming from my ownpublic elementary school, it was unnat‑ural to show enthusiasm in the class‑room. Going to school during the sum‑mer was hardly something any fifthgrader would be willing to do.

When my mom suggested that Iapply to Breakthrough, I was stunnedbut also excited for the change ofatmosphere. I had applied toDerryfield earlier that year and knewthat the academic curriculum would bedifferent than that at my currentschool. I wanted to prepare myself forthe challenges ahead and knew thatBreakthrough was the opportunity todo just this.

My first summer at Breakthroughwas the most productive summer Ihave ever had. My student teachers(including Kevin Finefrock ’03 andHanna Melnick ’03) were able to help

me learn valuable information that wasuseful in the following year. My advi‑sor, Isak, helped with my organizationskills and note‑taking, while my peerstaught me that it is acceptable to excelin academics. This, above all, was themost important lesson that I learned.This lesson has helped me to becomemore passionate about what I learntoday. A motto at Breakthrough is,“Breakthrough never lets you go.” It isonly now that I realize the truth in thismessage, as I am now teaching thesesame lessons to my own Break‑throughstudents at Super Saturdays. I owe mysuccess at Derryfield to theBreakthrough program.

Kevin Finefrock ’03Long before I sat as a calculus studentin Mr. Holland’s classroom, I waslearning addition of fractions in thosevery same seats. My teacher was NateSwift ’98, who had just finished hisjunior year at Derryfield. Through the

mentoring of Nate and other teacherslike Dave Flagg ’98, Emily Newick ’97,Alex Chan ’95, and Ben Russell ’94, Iwas exposed to individuals who were“committed to purposeful involvementin the world,” respected “diverse ideas,beliefs, and cultures” and valued “per‑sonal integrity and fairness.” Theirexample inspired me to return to teachat Breakthrough for six summers, andsome of my students also went on tobecome Derryfield students.

In a way, Mr. Holland and Derry‑field’s other professional teachers wereteaching me, through the work of theirstudents, years before I met them.Through this process, Derryfield’steachers have reached not only thosestudents who attend their classes butalso hundreds of others within thelarger Manchester community. Thisflow of students and teachers is whatgreat teaching is all about. It is theembodiment of Derryfield’s vision andwe should all be proud.


T he Breakthrough program has grown to mean so much more than just a summer program for middle school students.It is a life‑changing experience that guides enthusiastic, but under‑served, learners on the path to college. For manystudents, they will be the first in their families to reach this goal, and the seven‑year commitment they make to the

program is worth every extra hour of work they do. These ambitious young scholars are not the only ones to benefit fromthe program; the student teachers who take on the role of classroom leaders learn invaluable skills, regardless of whetherthey choose teaching as a career. We asked several members of the Derryfield community how their involvement withBreakthrough has influenced them.

At Breakthrough, I learned skillsthat were invaluable during my time atDerryfield. Alyssa Brown ’98’s insis‑tence that I keep my binder organizedled to academic success in Derryfield’srigorous college‑preparatory classes.Former director Natalie Koepp Gray’sadvocacy of positive risk led me to acton Derryfield’s stage and run for stu‑dent body president. I would not havebeen the same Derryfield student hadit not been for BreakthroughManchester.

As I enter a doctoral program in his‑tory this fall, I know that those aca‑demic and social skills that I firstlearned at Breakthrough and laterhoned at Derryfield will continue tosupport me in reaching my personaland professional goals.

Stacy BeaudoinMy Breakthrough experience began inthe summer of 2000. As a sophomorein college, I was eager to try my handat teaching, and so I embarked on myfirst Breakthrough journey as a studentteacher in the Norfolk program. Theenvironment was exactly what I, as anew teacher, had hoped for. The adultfaculty and administrators wereknowledgeable, encouraging and veryhelpful, and the student teachers werepassionate, energetic and supportive ofeach other. Throughout the summer, Ilearned a great deal about teachingand gained valuable teaching experi‑ence. The experience was inspiring andrewarding.

Upon entering the Derryfield com‑munity as a math teacher in 2007, I was

surprised and pleased to learn thatDerryfield was associated withBreakthrough. Summer 2008 presentedme with the opportunity to be part ofBreakthrough again—this time as amentor teacher. Although a differentrole, the job was equally rewardingand continued to support my growthas an educator.

Breakthrough provided me with apositive first experience in teaching,which motivated me to pursue mycareer in education. It gave me thetime and place to try out and experi‑ence the theories and practices I waslearning about at college. More recent‑ly, my work with Breakthrough hasgiven me time to reflect on my work asa teacher. In my new role as a mentorteacher, educational theories and bestpractices were brought back to theforefront as I instructed and supportedBreakthrough’s teachers. Furthermore,the community and experience remind‑ed me of the importance of positiveenergy and passionate enthusiasm foryour subject. Breakthrough has moti‑vated me and continues to motivate meto be an inspiring and effective teacher.

Kate HannaAll of us as parents have our own ritesof passage: dropping off our child forthat first day of school, allowing ourtender young student to getKeinerized, and so on. Those of us whose children taught at Break‑through Manchester share a special setof experiences. We can identifymoments—both for ourselves and ourchildren—that transformed us.

I recall sending our daughter into thewhirlwind of Breakthrough after herjunior year in high school. She waseager to spend a summer teachingmiddle school students from Manch‑ester who did not have the educationalopportunities of some of their peers. Ithought how fortunate I would be tohave the company of our daughter allsummer since she would be workinglocally. Not so. I hardly saw her as sheate, slept, and drank the Breakthroughexperience. Teaching at Breakthroughturned out to be the most all‑consum‑ing, exhausting, productive, and exhil‑arating experience she has ever had. Iam not engaging in hyperbole when Isay it changed her life.

Like so many of her Breakthroughcolleagues, our daughter emergedfrom that summer with a new‑foundpassion for public service and, in particular, for working with underpriv‑ileged youth. While in college, Hannaworked for four years (including twointense summers) at Boston RefugeeYouth Enrichment program, an after‑school and summer program for immi‑grant children in Dorchester. She alsomanaged to eke out one more summerof teaching at Breakthrough. After college, she accepted a public servicefellowship to work in Bolivia for a yearand a half, teaching computer and lifeskills to young women from rural partsof Bolivia. Now she is applying toteach in programs for inner city kids.

Hanna’s story is no different from somany other young people who gottheir start with Breakthrough, whetherteaching in the summer program or (as


BREAK THROUGH CONNECTION

in the case of our son, Hale) teachingin the after‑school program. Break‑through can change lives, not only the lives of those students who are fortunate enough to attend this extra‑ordinary program, but also those whocome to appreciate the joys and fulfill‑ment of teaching and public service.

It is easy for people of my age tolament the failings of the younger gen‑eration. But the truth is that the currentgeneration of high school and collegestudents has been far more willing todevote themselves to public serviceand volunteerism than we baby‑boomers. Despite all of our concernsfor America’s future, this is a source ofhope. I know of no institution thatnourishes this sense of commitmentmore than Breakthrough.

Noah Goldstein ’13Breakthrough has shaped my Derry‑field life in many ways. The main wayis that it has helped me learn to be aleader. I am not afraid to take risks andlet others follow me, whether it is insports or in academics. Breakthroughhas also helped me academically. Inmath, I got a solid foundation for pre‑algebra, and that has helped me a lotin my classes. I also took a Shakespeareclass at Breakthrough, and in myEnglish class we are about to startreading Romeo and Juliet, so I am onestep ahead. Breakthrough has helpedme a lot socially. I learned to not beafraid of meeting new people andbeing myself, and I believe that peoplehave become my friends for that veryreason. Lastly, Breakthrough has

helped me with my confidence. At theprogram I learned that I can do morethings than I thought I could. I learnedthat I was a great English student, andthat I was good at lacrosse and ulti‑mate Frisbee, two sports I had neverplayed before. These are the wonderfulways that Breakthrough has shapedmy life at Derryfield.

Elizabeth Richey ’03Once you are part of the program, itnever lets you go. This is the promisethat greets new students and teacherseach summer. Believe me, it is true. Sixyears after my first summer teaching, Icontinue to feel the influence of theBreakthrough community—the stu‑dents, teachers, and mentors. I still frequently tell stories about Break‑through and the learning that takesplace—mostly my own learning.

I recall trying to answer my stu‑dents’ questions about evolution anddiscussing the usefulness of gradeswith Rob Bradley. I tell friends abouthow excited my first advisees were tobe learning Russian and how two ofthem are now Breakthrough teachers.To enumerate all that I learned fromBreakthrough could fill pages, but it isthe warmth of these anecdotes thatremind me how Breakthrough shapedmy high school and college experience.

I always loved being a student, but,after several years at Derryfield, I hadbecome restless and questioned thesignificance of my own education,which seemed isolated. I wanted toshare my love of learning and of edu‑cation. However, I found my own

inquisitiveness and passion invigorat‑ed by my middle school students.

The Breakthrough community is onewhere everyone has a voice and peoplelisten. Breakthrough demands dedica‑tion and thoughtfulness, always; it isnot a place to be complacent. Theywere tremendously exhausting anddemanding weeks, but I felt the spiritand connectedness that is re‑createdeach summer. In the hybrid role of“students teaching students,” I wasable to share the earnest and joyfulexperience of learning, stumbling, andsucceeding with an entire community. Iwas encouraged to believe and to careabout the school that we createdtogether.

My experiences at Breakthrough areinterwoven with my Derryfield yearsand I am grateful that the relationshipbetween the two schools provided mewith the opportunity to teach and tolearn.



alumniThe news contained in this section coversthe period of November 5, 2008 – April 6,2009. For more recent news, or to post anote, please log on to the Derryfield Portalat www.derryfield.org.

1969In addition to doing clinical nutrition andback‑country rangering at Mt. Rainier,Judith Nelson Minzel and her husband,David, have certified as American HeartAssociation Basic Life Support Instructors.

1973Mark Porter is living in Portland, OR,working as a patent attorney for Nautilus,the fitness equipment company. He writes,

“I’m going to Germany in April to chasecounterfeiters at an industry trade show(yes, Chinese manufacturers make cheapcopies of our products with our brandnames and sell the goods in Europe andNorth America). Best recent experiencewas our bicycle trip in northern Vietnamlast October. Worst recent experience wascrashing my bicycle here in Portland inDecember and breaking my clavicle—it’salmost completely healed and I’m goingriding this weekend to start training for theSeattle to Portland bike ride in July.”

1974After 25 years of working in various NewHampshire school districts, primarily as aschool psychologist, Dave Smith has cutback to working four days a week and

BirthsTo Giana Roberge ’89 and her husband,

Rob Dillion, a son, Sawyer Stanley, on

November 19, 2008.

To Raymond Campanile ’92 and his

wife, Camille, a son, Gustavo, in

June 2008.

To Angela Calvetti Hornor ’92 and

Nye Hornor ’85, a daughter, Hadley

Simpson, on May 24, 2008.

To Amy Harding Hanlon ’94 and

Christian Hanlon ’92, a daughter,

Eleni Grace, on March 9, 2009.

CORRECTION: Rachel Sturke ’92 and

her husband, Joshua, did indeed have a

baby girl. However, the baby’s name is

Ella Rose Stebbins and she was born

on December 27, 2008. We apologize

for this error.

MarriagesKristine Girard ’95 to Jerrod Benson

on August 22, 2008 in Hampton

Beach, NH.

Matthew Whalon ’03 to Rebecca

Meyer on February 20, 2009 in

Mulberry, FL.

Update on

Eleni Grace Hanlon, daughter of Amy’94 and Christian ’92.

Members of the Class of 1998 gather for their 10th Reunion at Jillian’s in November.


seems to have settled in Lebanon,where he is in his tenth year at thehigh school working alongside JeffDaily ’84. He performs individualizedassessments for special education andsees a number of students for counsel‑ing, particularly those with an attentiondeficit or autism spectrum disorder.Dave served as president of the NewHampshire Association of SchoolPsychologists and in 1997 he was namedNew Hampshire’s School Psychologistof the Year. For fun he continues toplay soccer. He and his wife, HeidiFishman, make their home in Norwich,VT, with their four children (grades 4,5, 6, and 9). They spend summers inBelmont, NH, on Lake Winnisquam.Dave would be very pleased to hearfrom any and all classmates.

1975Les Field updates us as Professor ofAnthropology at the University ofNew Mexico. He has lived in NewMexico for 15 years, which is thelongest he has lived anywhere. He andhis wife, Gia Scarpetta, have three chil‑dren: Lukas (19), Simon (16), and Maia(14). He writes, “If any of my formerclassmates are interested in my work,please look at my book aboutNicaragua, entitled The Grimace ofMacho Raton, and my brand new bookabout California Native peoples,Abalone Tales. My new project is inColombia, where Gia is from, andwhere I’ll be spending a good deal oftime in the next few years.”

1976Brigadier General Scott Rice is theAssistant Adjutant General for Air, JointForce Headquarters, Massachusetts AirNational Guard, Milford, MA. As theAssistant Adjutant General for Air, heis “responsible for oversight of all AirNational Guard units in Massachusetts,and is tasked with ensuring their ability to respond to peacetime contin‑gencies while maintaining readiness toaccomplish their wartime missions.”

1984Kevin Johnston writes, “I will be start‑ing in the summer as the senior U.S.Army instructor to the Joint ServiceCommand and Staff College inShrivenham, England. The school ispartnered with King’s College ofLondon and they offer a master’s indefense studies to graduates. In perfor‑mance of duties there I will beinvolved in programs requiring travelto Europe and Africa to visit with theirmilitaries and defense officials. Thisprogram focuses on National StrategicPolicy and Military Affairs. I provide aU.S. Army and American perspectiveon the program of instruction at theJoint Service College. I will promote toLieutenant Colonel in June beforedeparting Fort Riley, KS.”

UPDATE ON ALUMNI

(L to R): Chris Ogden, Megan Crosby Aponte,Andrew Hickok, and Heather Fine.

(L to R): Dana Green, Preston Hunter, GerardMurphy, and Andrew Young.

(L to R): Kate Whalen, Lauren Squeglia, LindseyJones, and Alden Kasiewicz.

(L to R): Derek Gelinas with wife Vanessa, JoshPrunier, and Heather Jenkins.

Members of the Class of 1998 gathered at Jillian’safter Thanksgiving to celebrate their 10th Reunion.

1998 Reunion

continued on page 20...

Many years removed fromDerryfield, we found ourselves in a completely

different world. Two former Derryfieldstudents, now on the brink of finishingmedical school, we were saddled withthe task of seeing as many patients aspossible with the help of our Nicara‑guan medical staff and translators. Bystringing up sheets with twine, ourteam created several makeshift “examrooms” alongside the existing healthpost. With patients varying from adultswith chronic back pain and gastriculcers to children with cleft lip orleschmaniasis, our patients were

gracious and unassuming. Truthfully,as neophyte practitioners, it was oftenarguable whether the patient or care‑giver was providing more education.

We graduated from Derryfield sevenyears apart, and though we didn’tknow one another in high school, ourmeandering paths led us back to NewHampshire to attend DartmouthMedical School, where we becameclose friends. This past December, wewere both fortunate to participate inthe medical arm of a community service trip in the rural northeasternhighlands of Nicaragua. We were part of a team of Dartmouth under‑

graduates and medical faculty whowere welcomed into a small communi‑ty called Hormiguero.

In an otherwise strictly regimentedcurriculum, the fourth year of medicalschool is generally a time in whichmedical students pursue their ownpersonal interests by doing electives.With strong interest in internationalhealth and development, we bothjumped at this opportunity and werechosen to participate as medicalproviders under faculty supervision.

We were quite fortunate to be partic‑ipating in this exchange through aunique organization called Bridges toCommunity. Medical “missions” arequite common in the developing worldbut, sadly, it is often uncertain whetherthey provide a sustainable service tothe communities that host them.Fortunately, Bridges provides animportant link by sustaining manyongoing projects, often carried out bysequential American teams. Bridges islargely made up of Nicaraguan nation‑als, and it emphasizes communitybuilding and cultural exchangebetween both groups. It was truly aprivilege to work with the staff of thiswonderful organization.

Our team was made up of twoDartmouth physicians, a nurse practi‑


LIFE AFTER DERRYFIELD

Bridges to CommunityMedicine, Public Health, and Cultural Exchange in Rural Nicaraguaby Scott Morgan ’92 and Laura Reis ’99

tioner, three medical students, and tenenergetic Dartmouth undergraduateswho helped immensely with patientintake and daily public health work‑shops. We worked at the rural healthoutpost of Hormiguero alongside twotalented and efficient Nicaraguanphysicians. Over the course of a week,our team saw about 50–100 patientseach day, many of whom had walkedseveral hours from neighboring com‑munities to be seen.

In a nutshell, our experience was attimes demoralizing, at other timesrewarding, and always humbling.Daily afternoon public health work‑shops were performed for communityhealth workers from multiple nearbycommunities in an attempt to provideeducation that might outlast the short‑er duration of the medications we weredispensing. We were frequentlyencouraged by the involvement andinterest of our Nicaraguan “students.”After each evening meal, Bridges orga‑nized group discussions among ourAmerican visitors, Nicaraguan staff,and community members. These ses‑sions created a unique framework todelve deeper into the issues affectingthis fascinating country. Such topicsincluded poverty, health disparities,and past and current relationshipsbetween Nicaragua and the UnitedStates.

In addition to this project inHormiguero, Bridges maintains multiple other sites throughoutNicaragua, including Ticuantepe,Masaya, and Nindiri. These sites focuson infrastructure development, along

with health and economic develop‑ment projects. For many of these projects focusing on public health and infrastructure, no formal medicaltraining is required. Rather, a groupneeds only to be resourceful, flexible,hardworking, and interested in culturalexchange. We would certainly encour‑age Derryfield or any of its alumni toconsider organizing their own suchteam. This can be arranged through the Bridges New York office, with pre‑liminary information available atwww.bridgestocommunity.org.

Months later, home in Hanover, weenjoy luxuries that would likely beunfathomable to our Nicaraguan co‑workers and patients. We remainhumbled by our experiences inHormiguero, and we’re hopeful toreturn sooner rather than later. Laurahas chosen a career in obstetrics andgynecology, and Scott will pursueanesthesiology. We are both quite cer‑tain we will incorporate internationalhealth and education into our practicesin the future. We are very thankful to

Bridges to Community andDartmouth’s Tucker Foundation formaking such an experience possible.As we discussed with our Dartmouthstudents many times, the impact wehad on rural Nicaraguans’ health mayhave at times felt fleeting, but the bene‑fits of our cultural exchange will belasting.


Above: The early morning gathering of patients outside the Hormiguero healthpost. Below: Laura with anewborn from the community. Opposite (L to R): We discuss HIV transmission and education with aNicaraguan health educator and Kathleen Moriarty (student leader of our health team); A local youthhelps out in an impromptu first aid and bandaging clinic for the many children of Hormiguero; Scott andDr. Jack Turco facilitate a seminar on common medical complaints with the help of Carmen Rodriguez.

1988Shelley Stout Fajans writes, “One ofthe enterprise‑scale campaigns Idesigned was selected as one of the‘Top 5 Best Global Campaign designs –Hewlett‑Packard Worldwide Creative2008.’ It is quite an honor to be chosenas the best out of an internationalgroup of Tier 1 designers. I can alsosay with creative pride—when visitingDerryfield recently, I discovered thatMs. Steele had hung a drawing I illus‑trated in 1987 of ‘How to Spot an ArtsyPerson’ on the door of her classroomfor many years. I was astounded. Ifanyone wants to contact me, I can bereached at: shelleyfajans.com.”

1989Giana Roberge reports, “Rob Dillionand I had Sawyer Stanley Dillion onNovember 19, 2008. He weighed in at6.4 pounds, 19.5 inches, is superhealthy, and already loves to move. Iam in Northern California now and amretired from my ‘job’ as a professionalcyclist. I am now working as a cyclingcoach and a professional horsebackrider—all of which keep me busy.” n

Brenda Silva Gonzales writes, “Myhusband, Mario, and I are happily liv‑ing a ‘normal’ life in Amherst with ourtwo incredible sons, Nate (10) andNoah (8). Mario and I are rental prop‑erty owner/managers in Milford. I love

catching up with everyone onFacebook and look forward to our 20thcoming up soon!”

1991Christian Avard was at PresidentObama’s Inauguration freelancing forAir America Radio. He was taking pic‑tures and interviewing folks on thestreet about their reactions to theInauguration and also went to thePurple Ball, sponsored by Moët &Chandon. He had the privilege ofinterviewing actors ‘Ricky’ Schroederand Ed Harris, as well as musicianHerbie Hancock. You might find someof these interviews on YouTube. n

Rebecca Decoster Perry writes, “I’mliving in Colorado with my two chil‑dren, Ben and Rachel. I am pursuingmy interests in medieval living history,especially textiles and clothing; mod‑ern spinning, weaving, dyeing, andknitting; and organic, sustainable gar‑dening, among other things. I am pas‑sionate about reducing, reusing, andrecycling and also organizing and

eliminating clutter. I have acted as aconsultant for friends with great suc‑cess, but so far nobody’s paying me for it. I am working from home as aproofreader and I always need moreclients, so if anyone needs professionalproofreading or editing, they shoulddefinitely get in touch with me.”

1992Raymond Campanile reports, “We hadour third child in June! Baby Gustavois now six months old and close tocrawling after big brother Raphael (2)and big sister Francesca (4).” n AngelaCalvetti Hornor and her husband, NyeHornor ’85, welcomed a daughter,Hadley Simpson Hornor, on May 24,2008. Hadley joined big brotherThomas (7) and big sister Carolyn (5).n On March 9, 2009, Amy HardingHanlon ’94 and Christian Hanlongave birth to their first child—a littlebaby girl named Eleni Grace Hanlon.Eleni was 7 pounds, 13 ounces, and 21inches long. She reportedly has mom’swonderful smile and dad’s messy hair.


UPDATE ON ALUMNI

Young alumni gather for lunch following the Alumni Talent Show in January 2009.

...continued from page 17

1994Christopher Swift is serving in theU.S. Department of the Treasury whilefinishing his J.D. at Georgetown LawSchool and his Ph.D. at the Universityof Cambridge. His division administerssanctions targeting rogue states andterrorist syndicates. Christopher calls it an interesting mixture of intelligence,international finance, and law enforcement.”

1995Kris Girard Benson writes, “I havebeen living in Baltimore, MD, since2002. I have survived a record drought,record snow fall (five inches that shutdown the entire city for a wholeweek—ok, you can stop laughing),hurricanes, and the 17‑year plague ofcicadas (be happy if you don’t knowwhat those are). I was married onAugust 22, 2008, to a Baltimore native,Jerrod Benson. It was a very small, butreally fun, wedding at the WatersideYacht Club at Hampton Beach.Currently, I am working at Booz Allen

Hamilton as a technical writer. Mybrother, Matt Girard ’97, and his wifewelcomed a son, Lucien MaverickGirard, into their family on January 14,2009, and I am loving my new role asan aunt. Other than that, I’m just work‑ing on a master’s degree at JohnsHopkins and waiting for softball seasonto start!”

1996Matthew Melkonian writes, “I workfor Alli – the Alliance of Action Sports.We are owned by MTV and NBCSports. We are a ten‑stop action sportstour focusing on skateboarding, BMX,freestyle motorcross, skiing, and snow‑boarding. I am currently living inChicago.” n Mark Ansdell is current‑ly living in Liverpool, UK. He willgraduate from medical school(University of Liverpool) this July. Heis happily married, and still playing asmany sports as possible.

1997Jason Emery writes, “I’m a 2L atChicago‑Kent College of Law, living inthe ‘burbs and working (hopefully stillat press time) at Mayer Brown LLP,doing... stuff. Law school is amusingand Chicago is a good town for thatsort of thing, because from the govern‑ment on down, one’ll never hurt forclients. Hope my fellow classmates aredoing well and if you need a lawyer in


UPDATE ON ALUMNI

Kayla Sirkin, Alex Rolecek, Meredith Milnes, andKristen Moran (all ’06) at the Alumni Talent Showlunch.

Alex Rolecek ’06

Jamie Feinberg ’02

Tyree Robinson ’06

Twenty-six alumni returned to Derryfield on thefirst day back from winter break to watch and per-form in a showcase of alumni stage talent.

Alumni Talent

a couple of years for estate planning orcriminal defense (you know who youare, Rosenthal), give me a call.”

1998Amelie Baudot reports, “I graduatedfrom law school in May and spent sixmonths living in France before return‑ing to New York City to begin work asa lawyer specializing in restructuring.Life is really busy but I am reallyenjoying it.”

2000Rebecca Maglathlin writes, “I am ingraduate school at UCSF working onmy Ph.D. in chemistry/chemical biolo‑gy. I joined a collective art group outhere that makes large‑scale steel fireart. We made a sculpture for BurningMan last year. You can check it out atwww.flaminglotus.com. So, yeah, out

here working hard but playing harder!”n Christine Culver writes, “I justmoved to DC at the beginning of theyear and am working at Walter ReedArmy Medical Center as an occupa‑tional therapist. I joined the U.S. Armyas a direct commission and am now anofficer for the Army, helping woundedwarriors rehab from injury to indepen‑dence. I am at Walter Reed for theremainder of the year and could beassigned anywhere after that.” n TheMarch 8 issue of the Concord Monitorreported that Kate Newick is engagedto Tyler Kipp of Manchester, ME.“Newick earned a bachelor’s degreefrom Middlebury College in 2004. Sheis an admissions counselor at Colby‑Sawyer College in New London. Kippearned a bachelor’s degree from BatesCollege in Lewiston, ME, in 2001. He isin the marketing department atNordica USA in Lebanon. An Augustwedding is planned.”

2001Alex Moerlein married DorothyBandura on October 10, 2008 in WestChester, PA. He tells us that marriedlife is pretty good. Day‑to‑day thingsaren’t that different, but it’s nice thatshe is on his insurance now. Dorothy isworking as a research assistant for aproject involving adolescent obesity atthe Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.He reports, “We’ve started eating a lotof carrots.” n Andrew Weisberg grad‑uated from Fordham Law School lastspring and spent the summer studying

for the New York State Bar Exam,which he passed! Before accepting aposition with White and Case, LLP inmidtown Manhattan, Andrew traveledwith friends to China, Thailand,Cambodia, and Vietnam.

2002Matt Boelig is a third‑year medical student at Johns Hopkins School ofMedicine, currently doing clinical rotations.

2003Sarah Cassidy reports, “I am movingto Schaan, Liechtenstein, on May 15. I have a job offer from Hilti, a manu‑facturing company, where I will beworking in manufacturing/productionmanagement. I have been at GeorgiaTech the past year, working towards adegree in industrial engineering, butwill take a 15‑month ‘break’ to workfor Hilti in Europe. The plan is to comeback and finish my master’s in the fallof 2010, but who knows! In the mean‑time, I am furiously studying German.”


Jaclyn Leeds ’06 met up with Carrie Foster ’00 onthe Great Wall in China last summer.

UPDATE ON ALUMNI

(L to R): Gabe Plourde, Ben Loveless, and NateLavey (all ’03) celebrate their 5th reunion.

2004Julia Spiegelman writes, “I graduatedin May from Bryn Mawr, summa cumlaude, with a music major and minorsin French and English. I shipped off inthe fall to France. I currently live in alittle seaside town in Brittany (on thewestern coast) and teach English to ele‑mentary schoolers. The work is fasci‑nating, strategizing about how to gettheir elastic little minds to use andwant to use language, and the kidslove it. They can’t wait to have English,they ask me loads of questions, andeverywhere I go I hear ‘Ello Julia! Ello!’(the aspirated ‘h’ is a challenge). I amloving it here, thrilled to leave theextreme pressure of the academicworld and to be simply living andteaching.” n Cara Bishop recently got engaged to Adam Lavallee fromGoffstown, NH. She reports, “We are both currently living just outside of Philadelphia. On February 12 hepopped the question—we are planningthe wedding for June 2010.”

2005Derek Boelig is a senior at LehighUniversity and will graduate with adegree in accounting. He interned lastsummer at Ernst & Young in Bostonand has a position there after gradua‑tion. n Wyeth McKinney graduatedfrom Sacred Heart University inFairfield, CT, with a degree in businessand finance, and is the recipient of the

Jack Welch Scholarship. n CooperCunliffe graduated from UNCAsheville in December 2008. He writes,“Next? Thank you Derryfield, for allyou gave me to get me where I am sofar. The story continues...”

2006Jaclyn Leeds is off to Capetown, SouthAfrica, for spring semester to studyethnomusicology, among other things.She will be there until mid‑June, andthen head straight back to Hong Kongto intern with the lawyers at AnimalsAsia Foundation, where she workedlast summer, as she has decided thatshe wants to become an animal welfarelawyer. n Sean Pallatroni reports,“I’m having two major works pre‑miered here at Hartt in April. They arethe culmination of the latter half of thefall semester and the beginning of thisspring semester, and a collaborationbetween myself as a composer and var‑ious instrumental performance groups

at the Hartt School. The first piece is aquartet for flute, guitar, harp, and per‑cussion, titled ‘Chanson for Quartet’which premiered on April 4. The otheris a violin concerto that is titled‘Concerto for Violin and WindOrchestra,’ which will premier onApril 22. I will also have a work or two performed on May 8 at the semi‑annual composer’s concert, also atHartt. n Molly Lyford is a junior atthe University of California at Berkeley.She is working on a double major inanthropology and native Americanstudies.


Members of the Class of 2003 gathered for their 5th Reunion at JW Hill’s in December with Ed Lemire.

UPDATE ON ALUMNI

Matt Whalon ’03 with his wife, Rebecca, and theirwedding party.


UPDATE ON ALUMNI

2007Olivia Cowenhoven had a wonderfulsummer in 2008 at the MiddleburyLanguage School immersion pro‑gram—seven weeks of Spanish. She iscontinuing her Spanish studies, alongwith environmental science, at theUniversity of Connecticut. n DougLindner writes, “As part of Northeast‑ern’s co‑op program, I started interningin Congresswoman Carol Shea‑Porter’s(D‑NH) office on Capitol Hill (Shea‑Porter’s district includes Manchester).I’ll be here in Washington until June.”

2008Arden Barlow is staying very busy atWheaton College, earning a 3.7 GPAand being accepted into an upper‑levelwriting course for the spring semester.As far as extracurriculars, she attainedthe title role in the fall play, becamestaff political cartoonist for the WheatonWire, and also hosts a weekly radioshow. n Audrey Morgan finished herfirst year of school at Culinary Instituteof America. She is currently inNewport, RI working at the MooringRestaurant, a seafood bar. It is part ofher school’s curriculum to work for 4 1/2 months between freshman andsophomore year. Audrey will return toCIA on August 18.

Alumni gather with Dudley Cotton and Coach Natasha Cohen for the Alumni Hockey Game.

Alumnae gather at the Alumnae Basketball Game with Coach Lemire to celebrate his 25th year coaching.

Alumni gather with Coach Bradley for the Alumni Basketball Game.

Alumni gathered the day after Thanksgiving to play with and against current the Derryfield hockey andbasketball teams.

Alumni Games

profileIn 2000 when The Derryfield School

hired Kate Erskine as assistantdirector of what was then known as

Summerbridge Manchester, she gaveherself three years with the program.Never did she imagine that nine yearslater she would still be at Derryfield asdirector of Breakthrough Manchester.But if you ask, she will gladly tell youthat she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Throughout these years, althoughthere have been some changes in theprogram, such as its name, the “stu‑dents teaching students” mission hasremained the same: to help bright,motivated, under‑served middle schoolstudents on the path to college, and toinspire outstanding high school andcollege students to pursue careers ineducation. The staff has grown as theprogram has increased its commitmentto a seven‑year connection with students on the path to college. Break‑through has become more intentionalwith the services it provides, includinga stronger, professionally‑developedsummer program curriculum and care‑fully devised academic support forthose students who need it.

Breakthrough Manchester is a shin‑ing example of the public purpose ofindependent schools. Breakthrough is a

program of both The Derryfield Schooland the Manchester community, inaddition to being a part of the largerNational Breakthrough Collaborative.Kate has seen the relationship betweenDerryfield and Breakthrough strength‑en over the past several years. TheDerryfield community has continued toshow its support for Breakthrough byproviding homestays for its summerteachers, donating teaching suppliesand snacks, and providing outstandingDerryfield faculty to serve as mentorteachers, all in addition to financialgifts to the program.

At the same time, Derryfield studentshave been given a wonderful opportu‑nity to learn teaching skills as Break‑through teachers, mentors, and tutors,and the School has a presence in thesurrounding community. In fact, sum‑mer teaching at Breakthrough is one ofPrinceton Review’s “Top Ten Internships.”Approximately one quarter of allDerryfield students are involved withBreakthrough before they graduate.

Besides running the six‑week sum‑mer program, Super Saturdays, andSchool After School throughout theacademic year, Breakthrough staff keepin touch with their students right upthrough college. With the focus of the

program firmly rooted in college enroll‑ment for its students, Breakthroughstaff are there to help eighth graderschoose and register for their highschool courses. When children enroll inBreakthrough, they have found theguidance they need to see them throughtheir education from fifth grade to college enrollment. They have found alife‑long partner. This is evidenced bythe return of so many Breakthroughstudents who want to give back bybecoming teachers themselves.

While Kate continues to balance therelationship between Breakthrough andDerryfield, she also teaches Spanishand advises students. “I am honored tobe part of the Breakthrough and Derry‑field communities,” says Kate, “and Icontinue to be humbled by the work ofour students and teachers as they striveto reach their own full potential.”

– Diane Allen

Kate Erskine

FacultyCELEBRATING THE DERRYFIELD/BREAK THROUGH CONNECTION


Kate Erskine with a Breakthrough sixth grader.

2108 River Road Manchester, NH 03104-1396

A D D R E S S S E R V I C E R E Q U E S T E D

NON-PROFITORGANIZATIONU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDMANCHESTER, NHPERMIT NO. 290

AidaNick Alberts ’10 takes on the role of the villain Zoser in

the upper school musical, Aida.

Parents of alumni: If your son or daughter no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify theParents of alumni: If your son or daughter no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify theAdvancement Office at 603.669.4524 of the correct mailing address. Thank you.Advancement Office at 603.669.4524 of the correct mailing address. Thank you.

Derryfield Today, Winter 2009

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Transcript of Derryfield Today, Winter 2009