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The WINTER 2020 IN THIS ISSUE Westonian BEHIND THE NUMBERS: Annual Report for 2018–2019 Magazine COMPETITION, CHARACTER, AND COMMUNITY Athletics at Westtown
The Westonian, a magazine for alumni, parents, and friends, is published by Westtown School. Its mission is “to capture the life of the school, to celebrate the impact that our students, faculty, and alumni have on our world, and to serve as a forum for connection, exploration, and conversation.” We publish issues in Winter and Summer. We welcome letters to the editor. You may send them to our home address or to westonian@westtown.edu. CON N EC T Head of School Victoria H. Jueds facebook.com/westtownschool Board of Trustees twitter.com/westtownschool Davis Henderson ’62, vimeo.com/westtownschool Clerk instagram.com/westtownschool Michelle Caughey ’71, Associate Clerk Amy Taylor Brooks ’88 Martha Bryans ’68 Beah Burger-Lenehan ’02 Editor Luis Castillo ’80 Lynette Assarsson, Jake Dresden ‘62 Director of Diana Evans ’95 Publications Susan Fahey Nneka Nwosu Faison ’01 Contributors Gary Holloway, Jr. Karl Vela ’03, Ann Hutton Director of Alumni Sanjay Jain Engagement Jess Lord ’90 Rob McLear Mary Brooks, Elizabeth Gilbert Archivist Osterman ’73 Brenda Perkins ’75 Anne Burns, Dean of Jim Perkins ’56 Communications Keith Reeves ’84 Anne Roche Design Kevin Roose ’05 Aldeia Daryl Shore ’99 www.aldeia.design Mike Sicoli ’88 Danielle Toaltoan ’03 Principal Charlotte Triefus Photography Kristen Waterfield Ed Cunicelli Max Yeh ’87 Additional Emeritus Photography David Barclay ’52 Tom Gilbert ’76 Tim Barnard Bart Harrison ’47 Arthur Larrabee ’60 Kate McLean ’57
The WINTER 2020 Westonian Magazine FE ATUR E S 18 Competition, Character, and Community Athletics at Westtown 31 Behind the Numbers Westtown’s 2018–2019 Annual Report D E PAR TME NTS 02 D EAR FRIENDS 14 FACULTY PROFILE Letter from Head of Ernie Schoch School Tori Jueds 16 C OMMUNITY 03 N EWS FROM WAA board news AROUND ’TOWN What’s happening 50 A LL IN THE FAMILY on campus? The tradition continues 10 A RTS GALLERY 52 A LUMNI PROFILE Center for the Living Arts Elizabeth Patterson ’04 11 F IELDS & COURTS 54 C LASS NOTES Captain’s legacy Alumni news 12 PAST IS PROLOGUE 65 F ROM THE ARCHIVES The more things change… Girls golf
DEAR F RI EN D S: LET T ER FRO M H EAD OF SCH OOL TORI JUE D S Competition & Kindness In some places and in some schools, there may be tension— Quaker values as they are oriented towards a rapidly- if not outright contradiction—between competition and changing future, provide daily reminders to strive for kindness. Not so at Westtown School. excellence with compassion, and to exercise respect Anyone even casually acquainted with Westtown doesn’t while pursuing victory. Examples abound, but none need to be reminded that kindness is remarkably prevalent more striking than an interaction during a recent at our school. Kindness permeated the conversation at my Westtown cross-country invitational. The day after house recently when I had dinner with a small group of that race, our Co-Directors of Athletics, Mich Canuso- seniors, talented young leaders who Bedesem and Paul Lehmann ’99, brought to the table a panoply of received a letter from the parent diverse identities and a wide variety of a student from another school. of interests. This January, as we The parent recounted how his son engaged in exercises to build on was struggling during the race. But the legacy of Dr. King, discussions then, “a Westtown athlete came up among Middle Schoolers about how from behind and gave him the moti- to respond to cyber-bullying were all vation and strength to complete the about kindness. And kindness ruled course. It was a Westtown athlete the day this fall when a young friend who encouraged my son to finish, in Primary Circle decided to share his saying ‘we will do it together.’” collection of small, vividly-colored To race for Westtown School dinosaurs with another student. means to race with purpose and Maybe there was a bit of an internal determination. But it also means struggle at first (admittedly, they were to race with generosity of spirit, very cool dinosaurs)—but eventually with a sense of perspective about kindness prevailed. what is really important, always At the same time, during their years honoring that of God in one’s oppo- here, Westonians develop the kind of nents. A few days ago, at our winter effective competitive skills that they Pep Rally, the captains of our Boys will need to deepen their confidence Varsity Cross-Country team un- and resilience, to hone their unique furled our latest PAISAA banner in gifts, and to thrive in their chosen pur- Coach Downey Court, commemorat- suits. The results are impressive, as ing their 2019 championship season, when our Metal Moose team brought to thunderous applause. It was a home the coveted Chairman’s Award proud moment. But no prouder from the FIRST Robotics Competition than the moment when a Westtown in 2019, when Girls Varsity Soccer earned their third con- runner helped a struggling athlete from another team. secutive Friends Schools League championship last fall, The parent who wrote about that interaction told us: “At when eight of our students were recognized by the National the finish line, my son was truly overcome, not just by the Merit Scholarship Corporation this past October, and when gesture of your athlete but my son felt there was a divine a Westtown student musician was recently selected to the effort, through your Westtown student, to help him finish Pennsylvania All-State Orchestra. And even when there are the race. He was moved. I am moved. I know my son will no awards at stake, students at Westtown challenge them- never forget this act of compassion and sportsmanship selves in every venue to take risks, to deepen skills or develop for the rest of his life.” new ones, in friendly competition with self and others. That was a great day to be a Moose. But then again, it’s But never at the expense of kindness. Westtown’s academic, always a great day to be a Moose. Friends, enjoy this issue co-curricular, and residential programs, as deeply rooted in of The Westonian, and GO ’TOWN! 02 The Westonian Magazine
N EWS F ROM ARO UND ’ T O WN Making A Difference Claire and Rob McLear saw an opportunity to augment Westtown’s arts program, an area of passion for them. After years of planning, the McLear Artist-in-Residence Program was created in January 2019 to support a year- long artist’s residency in the Upper School visual arts department. Artists- in-residence are chosen by the Upper School arts faculty, and preference is given to artists working in the visual arts, particularly those exploring the intersections between art and science. A Big Win The new program is off to a great start! The first McLear Artist-in-Residence, Rebecca Kamen, gave an inspiring lecture in September about curiosity and MIDDLE SCHOOL the creative process. Rebecca’s work focuses on awakening scientific discovery ROBOTICS AWARD through art. Drawing inspiration from astronomy, neuroscience, philosophy, and physics, she reflects on the scientific and artistic pro- Congratulations to Middle School cesses as unique but complementary catalysts for making Robotics for winning the Robot the invisible visible. Design Award at the Southeast Westtown’s Chair of Visual and Performing Arts, Will Regional Qualifier Event at the Addis, says, “The McLear Artist-in Residence Program is Franklin Institute. Well done! a cornerstone of our new approach to teaching the arts at On Saturday, December 7, the Westtown. By giving our students a year-long exposure to Middle School robotics team, a single professional artist, we are encouraging authentic competed in the First Lego League engagement in understanding that artist’s creative pro- Robotics regional qualifier. The team cess. By focusing on the overlap of art and science, we are spent three months engineering their modeling for our students how art can ask questions, spark curiosity, and serve robot, programming missions, and as a lens for the larger world. We are very grateful for Rob and Claire’s generosi- completing an in-depth research ty in helping us reimagine arts education for the 21st century.” project. Teams presented their Claire and Rob were inspired to create this exciting new program by their projects and robots to multiple experiences with University of Pennsylvania’s Network Visualization sum- panels of judges that score the team mer program and the Center for Curiosity. Tori Jueds’ encouragement to the on a variety of criteria. The team Westtown community to “find your passion” resonates with them. They feel a earned a first-place award for their gift that supports student programming and curriculum has a lasting impact, robot design. It is the first time that and they encourage others to support areas they are personally passionate a Middle School robotics team has about. Westtown is fortunate to have the generous, kind, and thoughtful sup- earned this prestigious award. The port of the McLear family, and we are deeply grateful for all that they do. judges were impressed by the team’s “superior use of sensors” and for “being resourceful and using spare parts to make necessary adjustments on the fly.” The team finished in 4th BRILLIANT! We are thrilled to place overall. share that The Westonian Magazine has won two Brilliance Awards! The Winter 2018 issue earned GOLD in the Printed Magazine category, and the Summer 2018 issue won SILVER in the same category! Congratulations to our fabulous production team and thanks to our community for inspir- ing their stories! 04 The Westonian Magazine
N E W S F ROM A R O U ND ’ T O WN #AroundTown SNAPS FROM INSTAGRAM Three 5th grade heritage Spanish speakers organized a Lower School coat drive before break, and they delivered donations to La Comunidad Hispana in Kennett Square! Thank you for your generous participation in the drive! #givingback Identity & Activism MULTICULTURAL CONFERENCE & COLLEGE FAIR About 100 college representatives and 700 students and family members from schools as far away as Brooklyn Friends and Friends Seminary in New York City attended our eighth biennial Independent School Multicultural College Conference and Fair on October 19, 2019. A new and exciting feature Congratulations to our National Merit this year was student-led workshops focusing on identity and activism, includ- Scholarship Semi-Finalists and Commended ing topics such as “Having Difficult Conversations in Divided Communities,” students: Evelyn McLear (C), Emma Stavis (SF), Julius Enarsson Enestrom (C), Will “Student Leadership and Activism,” and “The Asian Experience of the College Swartzentruber (C), Nick Hanchak (C), Jeshur Application Process.” Other workshops were led by college counselors and Thangaraj (SF), Charlie Shen (C), and Leonardo Liang (SF)! #kudos admissions representatives, including “What’s Great About HBCUs?,” “Selective Colleges: Are They a Good Fit for You?,” and “Anatomy of an Application: Putting the Pieces Together.” After lunch, the keynote speaker and panel of college admissions leaders was well received. Later in the after- noon, students and parents had the opportunity to talk with representatives from 95 colleges at the College Fair. The feedback from participants, both families and college representatives, was very positive. One parent remarked, “The day was an information-filled, low-pressure experience for my 10th grader.” Another said, “My daughter pre- sented at one of the student-led workshops, she received great feedback, and it was a great opportunity for her as well. Great addition for all!” College visitors love coming to Westtown. An admissions representative reported, “The stu- Awesome to see alumni, former faculty, and friends on campus this weekend! Thanks for dents had wonderful questions. I had a great experience at the fair!” Another joining us for the Alumni/Community added, “The intimate setting of the conference was a great opportunity to share Basketball Game! #goalumni #gotown ideas and meet people.” One said, “Per usual, the caliber of student at this event #community is excellent. I left feeling extremely energized.” Finally, “Great, prepared, and instagram.com/ engaging students! One of the best college fairs I have ever been to!” westtownschool We would like to thank the many, many faculty, staff, parent volunteers, and students who helped make this important event a tremendous success! W IN TE R 2 0 2 0 05
N EWS F ROM ARO UND ’ T O WN Who is Telling the Story? REFRAMING AMERICAN HISTORY IN 4TH GRADE Who is telling the story? Who is being left curriculum. They use stories, field trips, curriculum with her for accuracy and out? Who holds the power? Who is being and resources such as Newsela, and they authenticity, and she recently visited the marginalized? These are the questions explore iconic images, artifacts, and class. Michalski has been very support- that drive the fourth grade history primary source documents. “Much of ive of the curriculum and approves curriculum. Over the past four years, history is documented through paintings the activities and books that are used. Teachers Shelagh Wilson ’85 and Hilary or images and we often accept them The study of the Lenape incorporates Simons have been modifying the curric- as they are,” says Simons. “We start by geography, culture, and community with ulum, an evolution designed to deepen showing the kids a painting and don’t tell an intensive focus on the local Lenni students’ understanding of the complex- them what it is. We do an I think/I see/I Lenape. The teachers make use of the ities of history and historical figures, wonder exercise in which they observe campus to impart their lessons. The and to foster an ability to question and an image or painting in silence and write students build wickiups (huts made with discern where there are stories missing down details they notice.” She says the sticks and brush) and canoe on the lake. and why that might be so. observations get increasingly deeper They make wanishi pouches and cook a The redesign of their curriculum was going from “The the carpet is green” and feast of cornbread and stew. And, they go also to align with national and state stan- noting ornamental details to eventually on a vision quest at the lake where they dards while broadening the types of sto- noticing, “Oh, it’s all men,” and “There sit, be still, and observe. They are called ries taught and told. Typically in fourth are only white men,” and “They all seem to notice their surroundings, notice what grade, students study the states, but the rich.” They make the connection, finally, animals they encounter, the qualities of curriculum was not directly focused on that it’s the signing of the Declaration of that animal, and to record their obser- Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia area Independence. vations and reflections. The teachers until four years ago. Study of Indigenous In revising curriculum, Simons and were thrilled with students’ reflections Peoples has been part of the curriculum Wilson enlisted Lower School Librarian noting how “deep” fourth graders can be. for many years, but this more recent Lynn Clements, who has helped them “Going on the vision quest gave me a bet- shift to a concentration on the local create a classroom library and curated ter understanding of why the Lenape do area—and the revelation that Westtown online and print resources for them. this, because afterwards I felt somehow School is on Lenape land—compelled Clements teaches research skills as stronger knowing what my totem spirit Wilson and Simons to expand the scope students learn about historical figures is,” wrote one student. Another said, of the unit and to focus on the Lenape. for the “Living Museum.” She also reads “Knowing that our school is on Lenape [Westtown School has made a commit- aloud biographies, novels, and picture land, I thought how a Lenape boy or girl ment to name the fact that it occupies books to support and enrich the class- might have sat exactly where I was sit- land that was once Lenape.] “Our curric- room content. Students visit Westtown ting and what they might have felt. That ulum is a combination of placed-based archivist Mary Brooks to examine arti- was very special to me.” history and considering these questions facts and primary source documents. Fourth graders also study slavery around who is telling the story,” says Mindful of authentically teaching and the Underground Railroad and, Wilson. “We are not teaching the discov- about the Lenape, Simons and Wilson the teachers say, they use “the lens ery of America from Columbus’s point also sought and relied on the counsel of of movement by choice and by force.” of view but, more importantly, from the Barbara Bluejay Michalski, Storyteller Through maps, trade books, field trips, point of view of those who were here and Public Speaker of Lenape Culture and local historians, the work of both thousands of years prior.” at Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania. She black and white abolitionists is high- The teachers explain that they is also the Co-Chairperson of the Native lighted. A field trip to the Museum of the lead conversations about race, gender, American Alliance of Bucks County, and American Revolution in Philadelphia and privilege in compassionate, age- Secretary and Native Time Presentator showcased the complex stories of appropriate ways. They use a variety of of the New Jersey American Indian important American historical figures methods to teach the American history Alliance, Inc. Wilson and Simons review for the students.“When we went to the 06 The Westonian Magazine
4th graders placed signs around Lower School to honor the Lenape Land on which Westtown was built. the whole story about individuals, but also that they have completely omitted certain voices. Wilson emphasizes, “You will not meet George Washington in our Living Museum because that story has been told. We are looking to lift up the voices of the others whose stories have not been told as often.” The challenge for the teachers is to approach the messy and complicated re- alities in an age-appropriate way, making it relevant to them without disturbing them, and instilling the skill of asking more questions about any story they hear or read. This is a delicate dance, but they have found both students and par- ents were not only ready but also eager for truth telling. On Back-to-School Night, says Wilson, “We told the parents: ‘We’re going to be teaching some hard history and we’re interested in feed- back, but we need to tell you up front that we will be talking about slavery and mistreatment of Indigenous People.’ The parents said, ‘Thank you for telling the truth,’ and they have been excited to learn themselves.” The students were ready, too. “Fourth graders are very justice oriented, and in every way they are naturally concerned with fairness,” says Wilson. “So when they learned that William Penn owned slaves, or how Columbus treated Indigenous People or museum, we visited a tent that was of color. There isn’t just one story of that he never set foot on United States George Washington’s,” says Wilson. “The African American people in this country soil, they were outraged,” adds Simons. kids learned that he was an amazing as the oppressed slaves, like William Still “We are always careful about that line be- general. And then we go across the street and others who accomplished amazing tween telling the truth and developmen- to his house where they tell the story of things in the midst of slavery.” Simons tally appropriate images and content his enslaved people, and how he circum- says, “We emphasize what the Africans because some of the images are horrific vented the laws so he didn’t have to free brought to our culture and how they and the truth is upsetting,” admits them. Thomas Jefferson is another com- maintained their own culture and high- Wilson. “We don’t want to traumatize plex figure. These men had ideas that are light not just the abolitionists, but also them, but being honest about history is worth celebrating AND they did things writers, painters, and scientists from the so important.” that were not to be celebrated. The same time of slavery.” The point is highlighting is true with enslaved people and people that history books have not only not told W IN TE R 2 0 2 0 07
N EWS F ROM ARO UND ’ T O WN Q U I CK N OT E S [3] [1] TOSHIBA GRANT Congratulations to Teacher Mariska Batavia, [1] recipient of a $5,000 STEM grant from Toshiba! Mariska, Chair of the Science Department, has used the funds to purchase a low-range respirometer which can measure metabolic rates in a variety of small animals. Students in the Scientific Research class are eager to start collecting data on our lab species. NLI SIGNERS Congratulations to the senior student athletes who signed their National Letters of Intent [2] in November: Jojo Lacey, Boston College, basketball; Noah Collier, University of Pittsburgh, INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL basketball; TJ Berger, University of Many thanks to all who participated, to all who helped—especially the wonderful kitchen Pennsylvania, basketball; Amaya staff—and to all who were able to attend Westtown’s annual International Festival [3] on Douglas, Lafayette College, basketball; Sunday, November 10th. We had tables hosted by students and families from all three Emily Coe, Lafayette College, soccer; divisions, honoring Japan, Italy, South Korea, China, Germany, Spain, Mexico, Palestine, Bridget Fitzpatrick, William and Mary, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Jewish Student Union, Sweden, Denmark, West and East soccer; and Collin Cunane, University Africa, Bermuda, Jamaica, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Canada. It was a delicious of California, gymnastics. afternoon of celebration! Visit www.westtownschool.smugmug.com [2] 08 The Westonian Magazine
DEI NEWS As part of Westtown’s ongoing and deepening work in diversity, equi- ty, and inclusion (DEI), the former Multicultural Board will now be renamed and refocused as the DEI Advisory Board. This group will meet two to four times per year and will align with Board of Trustee Meetings. The members are: Marissa Colston, co-clerk Jay Farrow ’75, co-clerk Tori Jueds, Head of School Chris Benbow ’90, Associate Head of School PoCC Conference Bekka Schultz, Lower School Diversity Coordinator Ale Navarro-Benbow, Middle School This year, twenty-one Westtown faculty and staff—20 faculty and staff of color plus Diversity Coordinator our Head of School—traveled to Seattle for the 2019 People of Color Conference Celeste Payne, Upper School (PoCC), accompanied by four students who attended the Student Diversity Diversity Coordinator Leadership Conference (SDLC). This was Westtown’s largest cohort ever at this Anne Roche P ’06/’08/’10, Trustee annual National Association of Independent Schools gathering. Keith Reeves ’84, Trustee PoCC began over 30 years ago as a space to nourish, sustain, and affirm the people Emily Temple ’07, Adjunct Member of color who work in historically white schools. As a person of color, I value being in Yiheng Xie ’18, Adjunct Member an affinity space at PoCC, where I do not have to code-switch and I do not encounter Karabi Acharya ’82, Adjunct Member the microaggressions that even the most well-meaning white colleagues can bring Kat Yeh ’84, Adjunct Member into conversation. Historically white schools are inevitably part of systemic racism Marie Ochefu ’14, Adjunct Member in our society. But PoCC is a time where I can fill up from the well, learn and practice tools that advance equity and justice, and be inspired by the speakers and workshops. Additionally, Marissa Colston and I’m glad that Westtown recognizes that this experience provides educators of color Jay Farrow will be publishing DEI with needed professional and personal rejuvenation, and supports our attendance. Newsletters which are posted on the Among the key components of PoCC are racial affinity group sessions. It is here website under “Our Purpose.” that I can explore my own identity, connect and renew relationships, and share the challenges and successes of my racial identity with others. This all happens in a space of trust, safety, overwhelming love, and understanding. The experience is powerfully affirming. The keynote speakers were truly inspiring. Joy DeGruy and Valarie Kaur deliv- Giving Tuesday ered memorable messages; I highly recommend their work. Dr. DeGruy drew on her book, Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome: America’s Legacy of Enduring Injury Because of the outpouring of and Healing, and spoke of the ways in which culture and family relationships are generous gifts from our community, influenced by the institution of slavery to this day. Valarie Kaur, who started the we far surpassed our Giving Tuesday Revolutionary Love Project, used her remarks to bring much-needed optimism to goal of 250 donors with a total of our social justice work. 295 donors, who raised $55,618 Faculty and staff of color at Westtown and other historically white schools work for the Westtown Fund! This import- incredibly hard, shouldering burdens that white colleagues do not. It was wonderful ant achievement represents our to see such a large group of Westtown faculty, staff, and students at PoCC and SDLC. most successful day of giving, and Our school is engaged in deep, good work to build a more diverse, equitable, and we are so very grateful for your inclusive community. After this amazing conference, I felt affirmed and recharged philanthropy in support of this to continue that work.—Marissa Colston, Dean of Diversity and Inclusion generation of Westonians. W IN TE R 2 0 2 0 09
AR TS G ALLERY Learn more about the Arts at www.westtown.edu/arts The Arts Gallery This summer, the Center for the Living Arts underwent welcome renovations. Air conditioning was installed through- out the building (except the theater). Finishes to flooring, walls, and ceilings were upgraded, and lighting, AV, and white boards were added to all classroom spaces. Structural and space changes were made as well, including creating a new dressing room and makeup area; moving the ceramics studio upstairs with easy access to glazing chemical storage; state-of-the-art Wenger practice rooms with sound isolation; adding a gender neutral bathroom; and, adding an instrument storage area to create more space in the band room. Stop by to see the CLA on your next visit to campus! 10 The Westonian Magazine
FI E L D S & C O U R T S See more sports updates online at www.westtown.edu/athletics [3] [6] [4] [1] Fields & Courts Captain’s Legacy. There are multitudes of legacy families in the Westtown community. It is rare, though, for one family not only to have a long legacy in athletics, but also to have six captains in one family, five of them in one sport. Bert Bacon ’60 [1], who will celebrate his 60th class reunion in May, was captain of the ’59/’60 boys soccer team and this year his grandson, Timmy Novak ’20 [2], was captain of the boys soccer ’19/20 team, a lovely bookending of Westtown soccer careers. There are three generations spanning sixty years of the Bacon/Novak family who have been Westtown athletes. Bert Bacon, who was also Most Valuable Athlete in 1959 and 1960, and his wife Dotsy Jacob Bacon ’60, cheered on their daughter, Debbie Bacon Novak ’85 [3], who captained her field hockey team, and they have walked the sidelines cheering on their [2] grandchildren for 15 consecutive soccer seasons. Timmy, who was All League, also follows in the footsteps of his older siblings, all of whom captained their soccer teams: Sean ’11 [4] (All State and All League soccer, All League lacrosse), Jeff ’14 [5] (All League soccer and lacrosse, lacrosse captain), and Kate ’16 [6] (three-sport athlete, 11 varsity letters). [5] W IN TE R 2 0 2 0 11
Cross country was a new varsity sport for boys in PA S T I S PROLO GUE the fall of 1963 when the team competed in six meets under the able leadership of teacher Jan Long who also coached varsity track. The school’s course was 2.36 miles long with “every type of terrain from hills to loose dirt fields.” Long coached the team until his retirement from Westtown in 1985. Front row: John Stratton ’65, Mark Johns ’64, Captain Hale Irwin ’64, Timothy Jacob ’66, Top: Frederick Klemperer ’64, Master Jan Long, Christopher Valentine ’64, Riley Doty ’65 (note: original photo includes George Wolfenden ’67 and David Hastings ’64). 12 Past is Prologue The Westonian Magazine 1963
2019 The Boys Cross Country team edged out Germantown Friends PA S T I S P R O LO G U E School (GFS) in the PAISAA State Championship. This victory was a particularly satisfying culmination of several years of steady improvement. The PAISAA victory follows the team’s second place finish—to GFS—in the Friends Schools League Championship. These runners secured the team’s successes: Front row: Constantin Carls ’22, Aiden Morrison ’20, Kavi Gandhi ’21, Santi Benbow ’23 Top: Nelson Zhang ’21, Coach Elson Blunt, Nick Hanchak ’20, Will Nagy ’22. ARCHIVAL PHOTO COURTESY OF MARY BROOKS, WESTTOWN SCHOOL ARCHIVES, 2019 PHOTO BYED CUNICELLI S PRIN G 2 0 1 4
FACU LT Y PRO FILE Ernie Schoch The Other Giant STO RY BY LYN E T T E A S S A R S S ON • PH OT O BY E D C UNI C ELLI There are some figures who occupy such a large part of do those who taught them how to parse a sentence or do Westtown history and lore that they are giants. Often clad algebra—because he is a teacher. Nathan Bohn ’83, Dean in his red “varsity wash” T-shirt, always jovial, avuncular, of Enrollment Management recalls, “When I was a Work and ready with a lesson, a groaner joke, or a winding story, Program Head, Ernie affirmed high standards and strong Ernie Schoch is one such figure. And like NC Wyeth’s painting accountability and helped us build those in our work teams. The Giant, Ernie is a defining fixture of the Dining Room. He taught me that you honor others by setting high standards. Since arriving in 1975 as Food Services Manager, Ernie He personifies the nobility of work that we strive to instill has been part of the lives of nearly 4,000 students—that’s in our students.” Ernie rightly counts himself a teacher as 44 classes! —and he will “graduate” with the Class of 2020 well. “The dish room is my classroom. A child needs to believe in June. He has witnessed five heads of school, the addition that what they’re doing is necessary, they need acknowledg- of buildings, changes in policies, and has observed it all ment that they’re doing it well, and they need to be thanked.” with his signature bonhomie. His institutional memory is Legions of alumni attest to Ernie’s influence. Perhaps Bob as legendary as is his nearly total recall of those thousands Batley ’81 sums it up best: “Ernie never taught a class, but of alumni, multitudes of whom come to the Dining Room he was one of my best teachers. Ernie was never a dean, to see him during Alumni Weekend each year. but he was the one that kept me grounded. Ernie was never Ernie admits that he had much to learn about this unique my coach, yet he constantly coached me to be better than place when he arrived. He relied on Anne Wood, Al Hay, Sally I thought I could be.” Wheeler, and Pete Lane (legends in their own rights) for their Ernie says “the people!” have been the most rewarding mentorship, and credits them with helping him understand aspect of his career. Being in the kitchen allows him to know Westtown culture. “Westtown was like no other place I’d every Middle and Upper School student. “Not everybody worked. I was oblivious that a place like this could exist!” He takes French 3, but everybody takes lunch!” he often declares. has a particular soft spot for Anne Wood, who took him under “What I appreciate most about Ernie now is how he takes an her wing and “rescued me from myself, since I often needed interest in individual students, especially students who are rescuing,” he says. “I’m so grateful for what she taught me.” struggling, those who are homesick or having a hard time Though a member of the “old guard” in some ways, Ernie has adjusting to Westtown,” says Dean of Students Whitney also been ahead of his time. “My job is food services,” he likes Suttell ’98. “He makes an effort to connect with these students to say, “but my passions are sustainability and gender equal- and let them know that Westtown values them.” ity.” Ernie founded the Earth Service club and introduced recy- “What I try to do is help people go from being children to cling at Westtown. In the early ’80s, he recognized the need for young adults,” he says. “When they’re teenagers they are going a salad bar that contained more than wedges of lettuce, and through changes, making mistakes, figuring out who they he was the first to use produce from Westtown’s farm in the are. Being part of that with them gives me great satisfaction.” kitchen. He served on the Sustainability Committee. He says His eyes twinkle and a smile broadens across his face as he it’s been satisfying to watch more women take leadership roles, says that he has loved all the kids who have come through his and he hired Beth Pellegrino, the current Director of Food kitchen. They clearly love him back. He gets phone calls from Services. He brought Work Program under the purview of the alumni routinely, calling to ask advice or just catch up. Dining Room, and is deeply proud of working with students to After a long and happy career, Ernie is ready to spend time change the culture of Work Program, and of introducing job with his own children and grandchildren. “I’m so proud of descriptions, the crew list, and the infamous clipboard. what I’ve done here. But it’s time to go.” Ernie Schoch is one of Few staff have had the kind of impact on students that Ernie a kind and his legacy unmatched. It is with profound gratitude has. Students and alumni count him as much a teacher as they and love that we wish Godspeed to our beloved giant. 14 The Westonian Magazine
FAC U LT Y P R O FI L E S UM M E R 2 0 1 9 15
COMMU N I T Y Leading the Charge Officers of Westtown Alumni Association Board Share Their Vision for the Future BY K A RL V E L A ’0 3 It was not long ago when the wasn’t when I started,” agrees Dina. Westtown Alumni Association (WAA) “I think that is due to the work of Ted Board meetings were filled with light and Kevin. Each one of them raised the conversations and potlucks. These quality level and the function.” Shayne gatherings were defined by friendly adds, “Each new leadership brings musings of recent vacations and stories new life. There has been a continued of the old days. However, the last few desire from Advisory Committee to years have brought on a tremendous really engage. Over time, the board has cultural shift for this group of volun- changed in terms of having people who teers, now led by a veritable dream team really want to engage and creating those of officers: Dina Schmidt ’84, Clerk; places where they can do that effective- Karabi Acharya ’82, Associate Clerk; and ly. We are really wanting to see things Shayne Mackey ’91, Recording Clerk. continue to drive forward and seeing Under the leadership of these women, this new depth is awesome.” the WAA Board has become a closely Both Karabi and Dina took on their allied group of Westonians, whose roles after reconnecting with the members now work from detailed job school when their daughters were descriptions and track success of board first enrolled. The wonderful, surprising initiatives. Recent projects include: thing about Westtown looking through the Advancement Committee’s special this new lens was, Karabi was quick to matching gift for Giving Tuesday which point out, “how Quaker tenets were helped achieve the most successful infused in the curriculum in classes like single day of giving in Westtown’s Peace and Justice and Holocaust to 9/11. history; the Quaker Life Committee’s I wish those courses had been here when planning of the next Quakerism Day to I was a student because they bring the take place before Alumni Weekend 2020; practice of Quakerism into bold relief.” and the Admissions Committee’s new Dina concurs and also notes, “I was project showcasing the stories of surprised by how much of the essence Westtown’s legacy families. Many other didn’t change. The details changed, the exciting projects are underway as well. enrollment changed, but the thing that This paradigm shift has taken place struck me was that the essence and over several years and much of the credit core values of Westtown didn’t change. goes to the leadership of former clerks I wanted that for my child.” From top: Dina Ted Moon ’73 and Kevin Moore ’79. “The All three officers noted that not (Patukas) Schmidt ’84, Karabi Acharya ’82, and WAA Board has become a functioning only was it a joy to support Westtown, Shayne Mackey ’91. body and part of the school in a way it but also that today’s Westtown seems 16 The Westonian Magazine
C O M M U NI T Y “The alumni have Get to Know: the opportunity WAA Board to be ambassadors Committee Clerks of this way of Admissions K AR ABI ACHARYA , SCD ’82 talking and thinking. Occupation: Director, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation The world needs Fun Fact: My favorite place at Westtown was always the theater. Even today when I sit in the theater, I can still more Westonians... conjure up the songs, the drama (on and off stage!), and the incredible sense of belonging from those days. I think I read that Advancement somewhere.” ALIA RIDLEY ’04 Occupation: Owner, Simply Scrubs & Butters and stay-at-home mom Fun Fact: I challenged myself to find my love of reading welcoming of active and thoughtful again, so for my 33rd year I challenged myself to read support and engagement. So, who 33 books this year. I’m currently on book 15! should consider themselves for member- ship on the WAA Board? Shayne says, Advisory “I think it’s people who are ready to bring DINA (PATUK A S) SCHMIDT ’84 their career, knowledge, and education Occupation: Arts Chair and Faculty, Church Farm School along with their heart, soul, and passion Fun Fact: I have an unfulfilled dream of driving an 18-wheel for Westtown. Being on the WAA Board truck across the country. really does reconnect you.” Our alumni have an important role Communications to play in the life of school, now and RICK SPACKMAN ’ 7 7 always. “It struck me how much the Occupation: Retired Department Head of Institutional world has to learn from Westtown,” says Division, Vanguard Karabi. “Westtown can be a center for Fun Fact: Previous to Vanguard, I worked with a recording that moral compass and those difficult studio that is best known for its work with the O’Jays, Patti decisions we are all stuck in. The alumni LaBelle, David Bowie, and the Talking Heads, to name a few. have the opportunity to be ambassadors I moved through different roles as Studio Manager and of this way of talking and thinking. The eventually became the National Sales Director for an inde- world needs more Westonians...I think pendent record label, Alpha International Records. I read that somewhere.” Quaker Life Interested in nominating yourself TIM JAMES ’63 or someone else for membership on (Co-Clerk) the WAA Board? Go to our website: Occupation: Retired teacher (Westtown 1976-2013) www.westtown.edu/waa. Fun Fact: Terri and I enjoy canoe camping and have camped with other alumni on rivers in Montana, Pennsylvania, Maine, Utah, Florida, and New Jersey. W IN TE R 2 0 2 0 17
18 The Westonian Magazine
COMPETITION CHARACTER COMMUNITY STORY BY LYNETTE ASSARSSON A.3thletics @ WESTTOWN PHOTOS BY ED CUNICELLI W IN TE R 2 0 2 0 19
he lights beaming onto Raiford Field on a cool and clear Friday night illuminate hundreds of fans gathered along the sidelines, many clad in Westtown gear. The buzzing crowd comprises Westonians small and tall, alumni, students, staff, and neighbors, all there to take in an exciting game, to enjoy the burgers sizzling on grills, and to support Westtown athletes. The crowd’s full-throated cheers of Let’s go,’Town! echo across campus. When the soccer team scores the winning goal, the gathered erupt in applause, spring to their feet, and rush onto the field. Spectators and players high-five, slap each other’s backs, and exchange hugs. Moments like these showcase students’ gifts and they are the embodiment of school spirit, an essential expression of community, and a vital aspect of a Westtown education. At Westtown, athletics are as much a part of the student experience as writing an essay, performing a lab experiment, or giving a presentation. Boys varsity soccer. Westtown’s longtime designation of athletics as a required co-curricular Inset: Fans gathered for Friday Night Lights soccer game. underscores the school’s central beliefs about athletics: that they are an Right: Girls softball equal educational endeavor; that they provide opportunities for students to develop their talents and pursue their passions; and, that they nourish the bodies and minds of students. Moreover, the athletic program is a critical component of delivering on our mission and living our values. than oneself—all of these intangible skills “It goes without saying that participation in athletic competition and are built by playing on a team, and all of physical education are integral parts of any well-rounded educational them are necessary life skills. program,” says Head of School Tori Jueds. “Anybody who has ever trained in a sport or engaged in athletic competition knows that practicing OF F A N D RUN N I NG skills, developing endurance, and understanding strategy are relevant Even in the early days, it was understood experiences throughout one’s life, foundational for any successful career that physical activity was necessary for and important to any relationship. Westtown Athletics instills in young children and growing bodies. Over its people an appreciation of the real meaning of ‘that of God’ in self and first century, Westtown School grad- others. Rigorous athletic training and dedicated skill-building are a ually but steadily introduced a variety matter of self-authentication. Our coaches understand that their task of sports and athletic activities for all is to draw out and illuminate any student’s unique gifts. It’s a great joy to students. Although there was attention see a Westonian athlete set goals and pursue excellence, because you’re to exercise and sport in the nineteenth witnessing the growth of something true and essential in that young century, interscholastic competition was person. You’re witnessing the realization of purpose.” officially off and running in the early twen- Myriad studies confirm the multitude of benefits from both physical tieth century. Teams were competing in activity and team sports, and others indicate that they result in better tennis, cricket, golf, field hockey, rugby, academic performance, increased cognitive ability, and enhanced basketball, baseball, and soccer in the emotional development. Valuable skills are developed through team first decade of the 1900s. As more sports competition. Leadership, collaboration, integrity, negotiation, listening, were introduced and as intramural games taking instruction, strategy building, committing to something larger became extramural ones, the school 20 The Westonian Magazine
fitness. This state-of-the-art Athletic Cen- ter reflected the significance of athletics and physical education, energized stu- dents and community alike, and set the tone for what was to come. A N EW ERA After the retirement of Athletic Director Jeannette Cooper, Michele Canuso-Be- desem and Paul Lehmann ’99 took the helm as Co-Athletic Directors (ADs) in July 2014. Canuso-Bedesem manages the Middle School competitive program and the Lower School Physical Education pro- gram. She is also the Upper School Health Department Chair and manages overall scheduling and hiring. Lehmann focuses on communications, Advancement, facil- responded by adding facilities or making Cooper was named the Director of Ath- ities, Admission, and external partner- space to support them, such as the conver- letics of a unified department. Under her ships. They share responsibility of the sion of the Lecture Room (located above leadership, athletics took on broader sig- Upper School athletic program compris- the Dining Room) to a gymnasium 1899, nificance in school and student life. ing 21 varsity sports. and construction of the Physical Educa- This deepening role of athletics led to The ADs had bold ideas, high aspira- tion building—around which the future the school’s desire to study and enhance tions, and specific plans to bolster their Field House and Athletic Center would be the experience of student athletes. Then department. Together they envisioned a built—in 1953. The Field House was com- Head of School Tom Farquhar appointed program that: operated as a three-divi- pleted in 1981, and in 1987, a 25-meter pool a team to conduct an Athletics Self Study. sional one; provided a space for all stu- was installed. Other upgrades and addi- Completed in May 2000, the study eval- dents to better themselves; elevated all tions to the athletic facilities continued uated programs, coaching, and facilities. athletic teams; enabled elite athletes to over the years. It resulted in facility upgrades, revision thrive; and one that built community. As athletics grew, so did the need for of program elements, and, most signifi- They created a plan of action that aimed leadership. The school appointed science cantly, a long-term plan to build a center to accomplish their vision while remain- and physical education teacher Eugene that would support and attract athletes ing grounded in Quaker values and West- Raiford, for whom Raiford Field is named, and support the expansion of athletic town’s mission. They were and are clear as its first Director of Boys Athletics in programming. about their priorities and easily articulate 1921. E. Mae January was named Direc- A renovation and significant expansion what they believe are the most important tor of Girls Athletics in 1922. For the next of the Field House was undertaken and features of successful programming— 75 years there was gender separation in in 2007, the new Athletic Center opened, and they are informed by experience and leadership until 1997, when Jeannette boasting premium spaces for sports and research. W IN TE R 2 0 2 0 21
Before executing any changes, the ADs undertook a thorough pre-K through 12th “OUR COACHES UNDERSTAND THAT THEIR TASK IS grade assessment of every aspect of the ath- letic program. They assessed gender balance TO DRAW OUT AND ILLUMINATE ANY STUDENT’S in offerings and team enrollment numbers. They studied peers schools’ interscholastic UNIQUE GIFTS. IT’S A GREAT JOY TO SEE A athletics and physical education programs. They considered league affiliations. They WESTONIAN ATHLETE SET GOALS AND PURSUE identified where Westtown’s program was meeting the needs of students and where EXCELLENCE, BECAUSE YOU’RE WITNESSING THE there was room for improvement. This GROWTH OF SOMETHING TRUE AND ESSENTIAL IN research, coupled with their aspirations for the department, informed the creation of a THAT YOUNG PERSON. YOU’RE WITNESSING THE vigorous, multi-phase Athletics Strategic Plan. This plan consisted of, among other REALIZATION OF PURPOSE.” things: building community and school T ORI JUEDS spirit through a three-divisions/one school approach; collaborating with Admission and Advancement; coaching excellence; enacting program changes and initiatives; a sport they love or just help them stay fit ADs. In response, they created developmen- and, attention to facilities, equipment, and and healthy. As we move into Middle and tal teams. These co-ed teams are designed uniforms. Upper School, it is more specific. We want for novice students to learn the basic rules “After all the research and our assess- students to understand the intangibles of and skills of a sport. They have a shortened ments, we began making adjustments,” says sport and how to develop as an athlete. We do competition schedule that still gives them Canuso-Bedesem. “We had to make some it with integrity, emphasize sportsmanship, experience playing in games. “They still get tough choices, but they were in service to and in a way I don’t think you’ll find at every to put on a uniform and learn to play for the program.” Among the tough choices school. You find it here because it’s especially teammates, all while they are learning skills,” were dropping the volleyball program and important to us how we operate as a depart- says Lehmann. “It’s crucial that we under- discontinuing membership in the Delaware ment and as a community.” stand where the kids are in relation to the Independent Schools Conference (DISC) of During the research and assessment sport and evaluate what they need compared which Westtown was a founding mem- phase, the ADs paid special attention to to more experienced student athletes.” Nota- ber. “We were also a founding mem- the Middle School program where ble as well is that eighth graders can apply to ber of the Friends Schools League the competitive sports require- “play up” on Upper School teams. This is a (FSL) and we found that it better ment began in seventh grade. solution for players who have specialized in reflected our mission and values There were often not enough a sport from an early age and who demon- as a Quaker institution.” players to field teams and play strate exceptional talent and drive. In the games, so that beginners weren’t past three years, several eighth graders have A P ROGRAM F O R A L L getting experience and kids who played for varsity teams and have had signif- Westtown’s athletic program encom- were passionate about their sport icant impacts on the program. Olivia Bley, an passes every student, offering a progressive weren’t having success. “We were cancelling eighth grader who played for the girls var- curriculum built upon the values of the games and trying to stretch,” says Lehmann. sity soccer team this past season, not only school. “This is a three-divison department The decision was made three years ago to helped the team win the FSL championship and our vision for the program includes extend the interscholastic sports program to and advance to PAISAA State Finals, but also Lower School physical education, Middle the sixth grade. The ADs are pleased by what set a new school record for goals scored in a School interscholastic sports and devel- they’ve seen since the change. “By increas- single season—a whopping 30 goals. opment, and Upper School interscholastic ing the numbers of students who are able to It is clear that coaches are crucial to the sports,” says Canuso-Bedesem. “There is participate in the Middle School program, student experience and team performance. an intentional sequence and scope in the we established healthier teams. Now kids The ADs evaluated coaching staff, provided curriculum. In Lower School, physical who are dedicated to a sport have an avenue support to internal coaches, and hired pro- education is about sport-specific skills and to participate in our program, and those fessional coaches to build successful teams. how they are introduced and developed. We teams are having success. But most impor- Part of their initial and ongoing assessments want to foster lifelong fitness by teaching tantly, students are having a more positive are to ensure that the right people are work- kids the necessity of moving their bodies, experience.” Initially, some were worried ing with the right kids, understanding that understanding muscle groups, and how about sixth graders’ readiness for compet- different skill levels require different kinds that all works to either help them pursue itive sports, and that was understood by the of coaching. “We want to have excellent 22 The Westonian Magazine
Co-Athletic Directors Paul Lehmann ’99 and Michele Canuso-Bedesem observe basketball practice. Right: Wrestling coaches Jay Farrow ’75 and Mauricio Torres ’08. to teach my players that it’s more than just learning the sport. It’s about team- work, discipline, perseverance, respon- sibility, going through challenges, and problem-solving—skills that carry over MEET THE ATHLETICS STAFF to other parts of their lives. Kids often from academics. If we’re searching for an underestimate what they can accomplish Michele Canuso- Jason Brennan English teacher, we want a highly qual- and required sports puts them in a posi- Bedesem Aquatics Director Co-Athletics Director ified English teacher. When we look for tion where they have to do it. Once they Nan Yiljep ’11 tennis coaches, we want highly qualified do, they’re glad.” Oyler says she’s seen the Paul Lehmann ’99 Sports Information Co-Athletics Director Coordinator tennis coaches.” universal lessons of sports are at play in The coaching staff are dedicated to her own life. “There are things I learned Joe Tyler Jennifer Dorfman Assistant Athletics Trainer their athletes and sport and understand as a high school and college athlete that Director / Head Coach the values of the school, the strengths have benefited me in my professional life. Andrew Landes Track & Field Trainer and challenges of required athletics, and So we teach the sport and the lessons we Amanda Oyler the goals of the program. The time and can learn from them.” The lessons are Charlie Dresden Athletics Coordinator energy commitment speak to a collection working. In her first year as Head Coach, Equipment Manager Head Coach Field of adults who are profoundly invested in the team had a stellar season and reached Hockey students’ experiences. “I don’t know if the FSL finals for the first time since 2015. people understand how much work goes The team was 12-2 overall and 7-2 in the coaches who care about kids and have into coaching, how many hours,” says FSL; they were undefeated at home and the knowledge base to be able to develop Kevin Eppler, Co-Head Coach for boys ranked second in regular season play. skills so kids can achieve at the highest varsity soccer and religion teacher. “Every Joe Tyler, Head Coach of Track and Field levels. We also want to make sure that day there’s prep, there’s a lesson plan, a and Indoor Track and Assistant Athletic all coaches are appropriately matched progression of drills, and work towards Director, is in his twentieth year at West- with their teams,” stresses Canuso-Be- an objective that you have to design. And town. He’s seen the program grow and desem. The ADs wanted to shift from it’s such an emotional job! You feel like the change, and while there have been some the days when a teacher was assigned to success of your team and these kids is in growing pains, he has always believed in be a soccer coach simply because they your hands.” the benefits of required athletics and he once played soccer in high school. Still, “When I first came to Westtown, I supports the vision of the ADs as they having a blend of internal and external wondered if it were a great idea to have refine the program. As a coach, he enjoys coaches is critical to their program. “We required sports,” admits Field Hockey seeing athletes improve, achieve some- want to have strong connections to our Head Coach and Athletics Coordina- thing they didn’t think they could, and, community through outstanding internal tor Amanda Oyler. “But once I saw it in especially, watching novices and experi- coaches, because it’s important that there motion, I completely understood it.” Now enced athletes work together. “For me, is a tie to the school. It’s an institutional she firmly believes that it’s important for the biggest joy—and the reason I con- priority that our internal coaches have all students to experience team sports. “It tinue to coach—is seeing the kids who multiple points of contact with kids, like can be hard to coach, but it’s also a great are experienced and naturally talented seeing them during the day or in class or experience for me and the students,” she and the kids who are learning and getting on dorm,” states Lehmann. “And we also enthuses. “Some kids sign up for a sport better working together. To see the nov- are able to provide the highest level of never having played it or maybe they ice and the experienced athlete develop coaching at the same time. It’s no different aren’t athletic. But they learn, and I try and contribute together to a team or at W IN TE R 2 0 2 0 23
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