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An inside Look at Whitfield School
We Expect More and Our
Students Deliver
A
sk anyone from among the hundreds of Whitfield
students, parents or alumni families to describe the
School. The responses will surely vary based on each
individual’s point of view, but they would all be founded in
personal experience and therefore reasonably accurate.
Ask around St. Louis however, especially among people who have
had little or no direct experience with Whitfield, and the responses
might come as a surprise. Mark Anderson and the School’s
leadership team explored this perception gap during much of
2010 with the help of Momentum, a marketing research and
advertising firm.
“As recently as last spring, I had been hearing misperceptions
about Whitfield even from other independent school heads,”
Anderson recalls. “In this tough economy and in our highly
competitive private school scene, I knew we needed to better
define Whitfield’s key differentiators and improve our messaging.”
Working closely with Whitfield’s admission director Cyndy Alverson
and communications director Becky Marsh, Momentum organized
a series of focus groups and in-depth discussions across a wide
demographic range, in addition to performing extensive analysis of
data and trends.
3
This research revealed some
elements that set
perceptions that would sound
very familiar to people who
Whitfield apart:
These three points have driven the School’s
have spent any time at Whitfield,
marketing and outreach efforts during
1. Strong Core Curriculum.
such as the warm welcoming
the current school year, as the three key
feel, the atmosphere of kindness
2.High
Expectations
and
Low
Anxiety.
elements that set Whitfield apart:
and the student-centered
focus. Meanwhile, some
1. Strong Core Curriculum.
3. Learning by Doing.
other perceptions were simply
2. High Expectations and Low Anxiety.
incorrect; for example, the notion
3. Learning by Doing.
that Whitfield did not offer a full complement of extra-curricular
A strong core curriculum is the bedrock foundation of Whitfield’s
activities or that the Warrior athletic program was not successful.
academic experience. Whitfield is the rare secondary school that
The issue of cost came up frequently, showing that the margin of
requires every student to study every subject (math, science, social
difference between tuition at Whitfield and competitor schools is
studies, English, and an additional language) every year from 6th
widely perceived to be greater than it actually is. Far and away,
through 12th grade.
however, the biggest misperception was that Whitfield was
There are no exceptions, nor is there the tendency that exists at
academically weaker than other schools.
some independent schools for students to soften their schedules,
With this understanding of the public-relations challenge facing
especially during junior and senior year. In fact, there are Whitfield
Whitfield, the School’s leadership team and Momentum worked to
students who choose to double-up in a core area in order to
crystallize the reality of Whitfield’s program into clear, definitive
pursue their own passions; for example, adding a second science
talking points.
course, or a third language.
Expect More cont. on p. 4
I n the words of
Dear Whitfield families, friends and alumni,
It’s a pleasure to introduce the Fall/Winter 2010-2011 edition of Insights in
which you will find glimpses of the excellent work our students and teachers are
doing each day at Whitfield. This publication is an important component of our
overall communication efforts, and this edition marks our return to producing
two magazines per year, in addition to the Annual Report each fall.
This edition of Insights also marks a personal milestone, as it will be the last
edition with me as Whitfield’s head of school. The article on page 5 explains more about this leadership transition.
I am excited for the new adventure that my family and I will be taking, and I am absolutely confident that Whitfield will
continue to thrive and reach further heights of excellence.
To this end, Whitfield introduced a new communications tool this year, Whitfield eNews, which is a twice-monthly
electronic newsletter focused on the day-to-day successes occurring in our classrooms, athletic fields and art studios.
Now with three annual print publications and monthly electronic newsletters, our hope is that Whitfield parents, alumni
and friends will feel well-informed and connected with the School’s triumphs, challenges and daily good work.
Ruth Greathouse and I have enjoyed taking turns writing the lead column for eNews, and you can expect to hear more
from Ruth in the coming year. She has graciously stepped in to serve as Interim Head during the 2011-2012 school
year, while the Board conducts the search process for my permanent replacement. I know that Ruth’s experience and
love for Whitfield will provide a smooth and seamless leadership transition, and that Whitfield will continue to offer an
educational experience like no other.
Articulating the essence of this experience has been a major goal of our revitalized marketing and outreach effort,
as described in this edition’s cover story, “We Expect More and Our Students Deliver.” Emerging from considerable
discussion and research, this effort has focused on three qualities that differentiate Whitfield from our colleague schools
in this competitive secondary school market:
1. Strong Core Curriculum.
2. High Expectations and Low Anxiety.
3. Learning by Doing.
The resulting advertising campaign shows Whitfield’s students and teachers engaged in our healthy and challenging
learning environment. The message is that our students work hard and have fun – and they do so in a kind and
supportive community.
I have long said that the hardest thing about describing Whitfield to the uninitiated is choosing which qualities of the
exceptional program on which to focus. On the following pages, we have highlighted just a few specific examples of life
at this exceptional school.
I know I will have the opportunity to speak with many of you personally this spring. In any event, I would like to thank
all members of our community – students, faculty, parents, alumni and friends – for their support of Whitfield and of my
leadership over the past seven years. Leading the Whitfield community has been an honor and privilege for me; I have
loved every minute of my time at Whitfield over the past 13 years and I hope I have served you well.
Best,
WHITFIELD SCHOOL
MISSION STATEMENT
Whitfield School is a small,
college-preparatory learning
community that fosters excellent habits
of mind, productive social skills, and
personal integrity
in an innovative, studentcentered environment.
2
N
ancy Clukies, a beloved teacher and friend
to hundreds of Whitfield students and
colleagues, passed away on February 4, 2011 after
a long, courageous battle with cancer. Our core values are:
Success of every
student in academics, arts,
activities and athletics.
Ethical behavior of the
members of our community.
Nancy joined the Whitfield faculty in 1996 and
during her career, she taught English and social
studies in middle and high school. “Regardless of
the grade level or course she was teaching, Nancy
had the ability to understand and empathize with her students,” said Head
of School Mark Anderson. “Her impact on our school will remain for years to
come, and her passing is a tremendous loss for our community.”
Intellectual, ethnic,
religious and social diversity.
Individual and collaborative
engagement and achievement.
Learning as a lifelong process.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES, 2010-2011
Mary Howe (Chairman),
Paul Diemer (Vice Chairman),
Ray Van de Riet (Treasurer),
Doug Rubenstein (Secretary),
Laura Pollnow Bryan ’97, Gerri Clifton,
Denise Franz, Randy Green, Lee Kaplan,
Mike Hughes, Donald A. Jubel,
Myles Kelly, Scott McCuaig,
Don McLaughlin, Thomas W. Neary,
Guerin Pichon ’98, Jill Ramsey,
Steven C. Roberts, Gail Westerman,
Connie Williams
What is Whitfield eNews ?
W
hitfield eNews, our newest communication tool,
is a newsletter that is delivered via e-mail twice
each month highlighting events and happenings
on Whitfield’s campus. Current families, students,
faculty and staff receive Whitfield eNews via their
Whitfield e-mail accounts. If you are not a current
parent or student and would like to receive Whitfield
eNews, please send your preferred e-mail address to:
[email protected] and we’ll add
you to the distribution list. Archived issues may be
viewed by visiting www.whitfieldschool.org and
clicking on the News tab.
Philip B. Cady Jr. ’70,
Bruno B. Schmitter, Wayne L. Smith II
(Honorary Lifetime Members)
Mark J. Anderson (Ex-officio)
CONTRIBUTORS to INSIGHTS:
Mark J. Anderson, Head of School
Kelly Edwards, Director of Development
Melissa Irvin, Publications Coordinator
Casey Jolley, Alumni Relations and
Special Events Coordinator
Becky Marsh, Director of Communications
and Marketing
Michelle Parsons, Assistant Director
of Development
Ed White, Development and
Communications Associate
Studio Altius provided several photos.
Questions or comments should be
addressed to: Becky Marsh,
Director of Communications
and Marketing,
[email protected]
Whitfield School
175 South Mason Road
St. Louis, Missouri 63141
314-434-5141
Visit Whitfield School’s Web site:
www.whitfieldschool.org
Mark J. Anderson
Head of School
Nancy Clukies, Beloved
Teacher and Friend
Whitfield School is an independent,
coeducational, college-preparatory day
school for grades 6–12. Whitfield seeks
to maintain a student body diverse in
geographic, economic, racial and religious
backgrounds. It does not discriminate
on the basis of race, religion or color
in administering its academic policies,
admissions policies, athletic policies,
financial aid program or other
school activities.
on the cover
We Expect More And Our Students Deliver
2 In the Words
Head of School’s Letter
3-8 In the Life
Cover Story continued
Whitfield Announces Leadership Change
Homecoming Weekend 2010
Whitfield In Action
World Music Resonates in Morning Assembly
9-12 In the Study
11th Grade Rube Goldberg Projects
9th Grade From Crusades to Community
7th Grade How to Read Books and Influence People
12th Grade Points of View Lesson
13 In Recognition
Students Publications Receive National Awards
Mark Anderson Receives St. Louis Business Journal Award
14-15 Inspired
SEEN Show Finalists
Upper School Fall Play
Lower School Fall Play
contents
16-18 In Step
Cross Country
Boys Soccer
Volleyball
Kelly Ashmore ’11 Signing
19-22 In Support
Golf Scramble
Trivia Night
Whitfield 2010
New Baseball Facility
Annual Fund
Gifts with Class
Montage
23-27 In Touch
Alumni Notes
Alumni at Homecoming
Q & A with Peter Greathouse ’05
Evan Milnor’s ’06 Marine Commission
Alumni Hockey Game
Wrestling Mat Dedication
Class of 1970 40th Reunion
Alumni Feature: Sari Rotskoff ’00
Class of 2005 Five-Year Reunion
Alumni Holiday Happy Hour
I n the life of
I n the life of
We expect more.
Expect More cont. from p. 4
one could understandably be a
bit uncomfortable with the
Whitfield experience.
And our students deliver.
Nevertheless, the 20th Century
“sit and receive” model of education
will not help today’s students. How
many future careers are likely to
involve that kind of behavior? Both
during school and throughout
life, active engagement means
better learning, because it is more
interesting and exciting.
Whitfield students will tackle a
strong core curriculum of college
preparatory academics, while
exploring a full spectrum of
additional ways to learn and grow.
Whitfield students are expected to do
their best and achieve great things,
in an environment that is supportive,
kind – and yes, even fun.
Expect More cont. from p. 1
Whitfield graduates will all have
substantial backgrounds in
coursework that requires extremely
complex and high-level thinking,
such as chemistry, physics, and some
level of calculus. At many secondary
schools, students are able to graduate
without taking on challenges of
this sort.
Furthermore, this
core curriculum
in no way
detracts from
Whitfield students’
opportunities to
explore and excel
in athletics, visual
arts, music, theatre,
service learning and innovative uses
of technology. For certain, students
must devote many hours and much
effort in order to pursue all of their
interests, but they will always have
the support needed to do so, which
leads to the next talking point.
environment described as high
expectations and low anxiety. This
means teachers expect much from
students and will do everything in
their power to help them succeed.
By beginning with the premise
that students can and will achieve
mastery, Whitfield teachers essentially
set up a self-fulfilling prophecy, which
with effort and persistence on the
students’ part, invariably comes true.
individual strengths and needs.
Whitfield teachers make this extra
effort because it works better, and
it creates an environment that is
healthier for everyone involved.
As suggested by the third talking
point, the Whitfield classroom is
beautifully alive and active, where
students learn by doing. Whitfield
teachers rarely lecture, because
listening to a
teacher pontificate
is passive learning.
Whitfield students
debate, create,
discuss, research,
collaborate and
perform. Not
surprisingly,
Whitfield students have more fun.
One key element is balance. Whitfield
teachers seek to challenge their students,
not load them down with stress.
For many years, Whitfield has
propounded the value of a learning
4
One key element is balance. Whitfield
teachers seek to challenge their
students, not load them down with
stress. After all, any school can be
“hard” or “rigorous,” since teachers
who are inflexible actually have
it much easier than teachers who
genuinely engage with students,
getting to know the reality of their
Interestingly, parents often have a
harder time than their children in
embracing Whitfield’s approach.
If one was taught in traditional
49-minute classes, with the desks
in perfect rows, the students sitting
subdued, and the teacher as the
front-and-center focal point;
Whitfield students will be at the
center of the action, without a chance
of fading into the woodwork.
At Whitfield School, we
expect more, and our
students deliver.
On The Cover
At Whitfield, our students tackle some of the most rigorous
academic requirements in the country. That’s why we teach
them essential skills that make success possible. So when
they’re challenged by their yearly requirement of English,
social studies, science, mathematics and language,
they can respond with confidence.
Located at the corner of Ladue and Mason roads
Whitfield_LadueNewsAd_2.indd 1
Schedule a tour today,
and experience
314.434.5141
whitfieLdschooL.org
11/17/10 10:52:58 AM
The photo that appears on the cover, as well as the photo on page 4, are both
creative elements used in Whitfield’s current print advertising campaign. The
campaign features three ads, one of which appears above. To view all three ads,
please visit www.whitfieldschool.org/printads.
Whitfield Announces Leadership Change
M
ark Anderson, head of school, is leaving at the end
of the current academic year to become head of
school at Sanford School in Hockessin,
Delaware. Ruth Greathouse, principal,
will be Whitfield’s interim head of school
for the 2011-2012 school year. The
Whitfield Board of Trustees is committed
to engaging in a thorough search
process for a new head of school, and a
permanent head will be in place by the
summer of 2012.
Anderson has served as Whitfield’s
head since 2004 and has been part of
the Whitfield community as a teacher,
coach and administrator since 1998.
During his tenure, Whitfield has experienced increased
diversity, updated facilities, property expansion, and
continued growth of the endowment. Board Chair Mary Howe commented
in a letter to the Whitfield community,
“Mark Anderson has filled some
very big shoes, brilliantly, as head of
Whitfield School over the past seven
years, and I hope you will join with the
Board in acknowledging his successes,
and in wishing Mark and his family our
very best as they move into the next
chapter of their lives.”
“Mark Anderson
has filled some very
big shoes, brilliantly,
as head of Whitfield
School over the past
seven years.”
-Board Chair Mary Howe
Leadership continued on p. 12
5
I n the life of
I n the life of
Homecoming
Weekend 2010
W
hitfield’s annual Homecoming Weekend was held October 1
and 2. There was a spirited crowd of current families, alumni and
friends on hand for the Pep Rally and Lip Syncs on Friday night as
well as for the games and activities on Saturday. The Warrior Sizzle, freshly
grilled fare cooked up by Whitfield parents, fed the hungry crowd. New
this year, the Junior Whitfield Warrior Zone was a special area geared for our
youngest Warriors.
Leading up to the weekend is Spirit Week when each Morning Assembly
is transformed into a rollicking, celebratory and zany event. Dress Up Day
themes, such as Wacky Tacky, Superhero/Villain and Character, set the stage
for a wide-variety of student costumes. Mrs. Greathouse awards the Spirit
Stick to one grade level each day in recognition of their overall spirit shown
that morning.
6
7
I n the life of
I n The study of
Whitfield In Action
O
n Saturday, April 16, 2011, Whitfield students,
parents, faculty, staff and alumni will have the
opportunity to participate in
the School’s inaugural day of service –
Whitfield In Action. The purpose of
Whitfield In Action is to offer our entire
community opportunities to give of
their time and talent at St. Louis area
non-profits on one impactful day.
Participants in Whitfield In Action will
commit to volunteering for a half day
on Saturday, April 16, at one of over 20
area agencies. Areas of interest include organizations
which support children and families, animals and the
environment, homes and communities, and those with
unique needs such as developmental disabilities. All
volunteers will meet at Whitfield where they will divide
into groups designated for each organization and travel
to their respective sites by 9:00 AM.
Organized by a committee of current
parents who are active in the School’s
community service initiatives, Whitfield
In Action is designed for volunteers of
all ages and abilities. “Our goal is to
have as many members of the Whitfield
community as possible participating
in meaningful projects for a significant
number of St. Louis area non-profits,”
said Meg Smith (Molly ’14).
Please visit www.whitfieldschool.org/whitfieldinaction.
You’ll find a complete listing of volunteer opportunities
and registration information.
World Music Resonates in Morning Assembly
Rube Goldberg Projects
W
hitfield juniors in
Mr. A sik ainen’s
physics sections recently
completed and presented their Rube
Goldberg Projects. This assignment
required students, working in teams,
to create Rube Goldberg machines
which used at least four of the six
classical simple machines: lever,
wheel/axle, pulley, inclined plane,
wedge and screw. Eight total steps
were required prior to the machine
accomplishing a simple task, such
as raising a flag, taking a picture,
chopping a carrot or turning on a
light switch.
Rube Goldberg was an American
cartoonist, author, sculptor, engineer
and inventor, best remembered for
his popular series of cartoons which
depicted complex and convoluted
devices that indirectly performed
simple tasks. Creations in this style are
now referred to simply by his name.
For Whitfield physics students,
these projects offered a goldmine of
opportunities to hypothesize, test,
measure, and demonstrate advanced
physics concepts including efficiency,
mechanical advantage, gravitational
potential, elastic potential, force,
work, power, velocity, and both static
and kinetic friction.
Students were able to be highly
creative with their Rube Goldberg’s,
yet they had to exercise their
creativity within strict parameters
of both building materials and
the overall size of their machines.
Each team received a kit of starting
materials with everything from
assorted screws, springs and gorilla
glue to matchbox cars, Dixie cups
and bungee cords. Students
could also include a few materials
unique to their machine; with the
approval of Mr. Asikainen. The total
dimensions could not exceed three
feet tall, by four feet wide, by two
feet deep.
Throughout the creative
process, students took detailed
measurements. Using physics
formulas they had learned in class,
they were able to determine the
exact efficiency of the various simple
machines. Students worked on their
projects for several weeks, both
during and outside of class time.
When the day came to exhibit their
Rube Goldberg’s to their classmates
and a panel of teacher-judges, more
was at stake than a demonstration of
the students’ cleverness.
Each group gave detailed
presentations, explaining the
physics behind every step in their
complicated machines. Then the
true test came: will it work? As
with any scientific experiment,
repeatability is essential. Students
ran and reset their machines up
to six times in front of the panel of
judges. Not every machine worked
every time, but the students learned
a great deal, and everyone had a
lot of fun watching the convoluted
machines perform their tasks.
M
usic playing at the beginning and end of Morning
Assembly has been a Whitfield tradition for a
number of years. Students, and occasionally faculty and
staff members, request specific songs to commemorate
a friend’s birthday, generate excitement for an upcoming
athletic event or simply to share a favorite tune with
the community.
Beginning this year, the music selections played on
Fridays are reflective of a variety of world cultures. Two different student groups and their teachers have
performed songs so far this year. Faculty member Gavin
Kark and students from his AP Chemistry class shared
the song Shosholoza, which has strong ties to Mr. Kark’s
native South Africa. A traditional South African folk song,
“Shosholoza” means “go forward” or “make way for
the next man.” The song gained enormous popularity
in 1995 when South Africa entered and won the Rugby
World Cup for the first time after the apartheid years.
It has since been recorded by a variety of artists and
8
was part of the soundtrack for the movie, “Invictus.”
Mr. Kark shared that as a child growing up in South Africa,
he remembers laborers singing this song to keep their
drive and determination to complete the job at hand. He
told the students that he often sings this song when he
is doing “laborious” chores at home and that his children
have picked up on it too.
World Music cont. on p. 11
9
I n The study of
I n The study of
From Crusades to Community
I
n 9th grade Western Civilization, Joe Torgerson’s
students study the historic Crusades, which took
place from the 11th to 13th centuries. In order to
better understand the people and cultures involved in
the Crusades, students study Judaism, Christianity
and Islam as part of the course. In late October 2010,
Whitfield’s entire 9th grade spent a school day traveling
around St. Louis and visiting places of worship for each of
these three religions.
Students and
their 10 faculty
chaperones
began the day
by visiting the
Central Reformed
Congregation’s
synagogue,
located in
St. Louis City’s
Central West
End. A Rabbi
welcomed the
students and
offered them
juice and challah,
a traditional
bread. The
Rabbi explained
that welcoming
guests with food
and drink is an
important part of
Jewish culture.
1
After leaving the Basilica, the Whitfield group returned to
West St. Louis County for the third stop in their journey
at the Daar Ul Islam mosque. Students were given a
brief tour of the mosque, prior to crossing the street for a
picnic lunch in Queeny Park.
The group later returned to the mosque where students
and teachers were able to observe a Friday afternoon
prayer service, followed by a question and answer
session hosted
by the mosque’s
2
educational
director.
3
In all three
settings, Whitfield
students were
appropriately
respectful in
their words,
actions, dress
and demeanor;
recognizing each
site as holy in
the eyes of its
regular attendees.
Nevertheless,
students were
forthright and
insightful with
their questions
for each religion’s
representative,
with discussion
topics ranging
from the physical
surroundings to
deep matters of
spirituality.
After proceeding
into the
Photos from the field trip: 1) Central Reformed Congregation temple
2) Darr UI Islam mosque 3) St. Louis Cathedral Basilica
sanctuary,
students
In addition
participated in
to writing personal reflections about the fieldtrip,
an interactive tour of the room and its physical features
Torgerson’s students considered the larger context of
with an educational director from the synagogue. Then
how one’s religious beliefs might influence one’s view of
both the Rabbi and director answered students’ questions
history. Students also discussed and debated different
about many cultural and spiritual aspects of Judaism.
points of view regarding the impact of the historic
The second stop on the 9th graders’ tour was the St. Louis
Cathedral Basilica, a famed local landmark and place
of worship for Roman Catholics. The group was met in
the entryway by a tour guide who offered information
about the building’s history, as well as its Byzantine
and Romanesque architectural features and extensive
installation of mosaics. A Priest was also available to
answer students’ additional questions about the physical
building and Catholicism in general.
10
Crusades on contemporary events.
“In addition to complementing our classroom studies,
I know that this tangible experience has promoted
empathy along with genuine and meaningful
conversations about diversity among my students,”
said Torgerson. “From a history teacher’s perspective,
a study of these religions is crucial not only to
understanding the Crusades, but also to understanding
the history of the world.”
How to Read Books
and Influence People
S
tudents in Rob Butler’s 7th grade English classes
received more than they realized when they were
given the simple assignment of choosing a novel for
independent reading. In addition to reading a good
book, they would also engage in persuasive writing,
library development, critical analysis, public speaking,
peer evaluation and the use of high-tech tools.
Mr. Butler added the first twist to the assignment by
asking his students to write persuasive essays aimed
at influencing classmates to read the books they had
chosen. This writing component itself took several steps,
following the multiple-draft process that had been a
theme for the whole first semester.
After Mr. Butler discussed the project with Whitfield’s
new assistant technology director, Kevin Edson; the two
educators created an opportunity for the students’ work
to have a real-life impact. Mr. Edson linked the
7th graders’ efforts at promoting their books to his
own plans for expanding the collection in Whitfield’s
Intellectual Commons (IC).
This led to the assignment’s public-speaking component,
in the form of 30-second commercials. In an attempt
to sway the purchasing decisions of the IC, students
developed their commercials, building the
scripts around the main points from their
written essays. Students were required to
include an outside source, such as a book
review, in order to practice identifying
credible sources of literary review from among
the many viewpoints available online.
After digitally recording their commercials,
students took ownership of the process of
evaluating each other’s work. Three winning commercials
were ultimately chosen from each of Mr. Butler’s three 7th
grade English sections. These nine book titles were then
purchased by the IC to become part of the School’s
collection. A display kiosk in the IC currently
highlights these books.
Mr. Edson added an additional twist of
technology to the final display, having the
students create “quick response” (QR) barcodes
for each of the featured novels. Anyone with
a smart-phone can now simply point their
phone’s camera at the QR barcodes and be
instantly linked to the corresponding 30-second
commercial videos. Patrons of Whitfield’s IC will not only
see the book purchases that were influenced by 7th grade
students, they can see how the students did it.
World Music cont. from p. 8
High school French students performed a song, “Aicha,”
at Morning Assembly. Written by Jean-Jaques Goldman,
this French love song was made famous by Cheb
Khaleb, a raï musician from Algeria who
came to live in France for the freedom of
expression enjoyed by French artists.
Raï music is a blend of Arabic and
western music which is popular
in France.
According to faculty member Carine Terras,
her students came up with the idea to perform
the song during a classroom discussion
regarding diversity. “My students wanted
to demonstrate their appreciation of French
culture and diversity to their fellow students,”
said Dr. Terras. “They chose the song and choreographed
the performance – all with a great deal of enthusiasm.”
11
I n The study of
I n recognition
Points of View
Student Publications
Receive National Awards
I
E
s truth dependent upon place, culture, and time? How
have human choices had a local and global impact?
What is the role of the individual in the world today? Seniors in Fran Knechel’s Advanced Seminar in Modern
World History course consider these Essential Questions
as they study the complex issues related to imperialism,
globalization, immigration, genocide and the concept of
human rights.
arlier this fall, two of Whitfield’s 2009-2010 student
publications, The Iliad and the Secret Voice, received
awards from the National Scholastic Press Association
(NSPA). Since 1927, NSPA’s competition has been widely
considered to be student journalism’s highest honor.
Titled “Departure from the Ordinary,” The Iliad yearbook
memorialized the events of the 2009-2010 school year, while
capturing the many extraordinary facets of the School. In
recognition of an excellent publication, “Departure from the
Ordinary” earned a First Class honor rating from the National
Scholastic Press Association. Jonathan Rothman ’09 and
Drew Skrainka ’09 were co-editors-in-chief of the yearbook.
The book has also won several other awards for design of
individual pages.
During a first semester lesson related to international
policy and human rights, students were asked to
think about their positions on national sovereignty vs.
intervention. When, if ever, is it appropriate for there to be
some form of intervention in the name of human rights?
In the second part of the lesson, students were asked to
evaluate their own opinions about 19 different statements
that are based on one of the 30 articles that are found
in the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human
Rights. Working in small groups, they had to determine if
they believed that ‘killing is wrong’ in every case, in most
cases, or in some cases. Ultimately, those statements that
made it into each small group’s “in every case” category
would be considered rights that they felt could be
universally applied.
The activity concluded with a free-writing reflection
about either a particular statement from the activity
where students noticed that their thinking changed –
and what was said that swayed their thinking - or, how
their understanding of which rights are important is a
reflection of their life experiences and identity.
“We are confident that
Ruth’s years of teaching and
administrative experience, her
dedication and commitment to
our mission, and her thorough
understanding of our school
community will enable her to be
effective leader during this period
of transition.”
Ruth began her career at Whitfield
in 1985 as a full-time mathematics
teacher, with additional responsibilities in physical
education. She then became the mathematics
department chair in addition to her teaching duties. Ruth
inherited the newly created position of dean of students
12
M
ark Anderson, head of school,
has been selected as one of
the St. Louis Business Journal 40 Under
40 award winners. The 40 Under 40
honorees are chosen by a panel of editors
and former winners based on their
career achievements and work in the
community. More than 450 nominations
were submitted for this year’s awards.
The 2011 Class was profiled in the
January 28, 2011 issue of the St. Louis
Business Journal and was honored at an
awards dinner on February 17, 2011 at
the Renaissance Grand Hotel.
Congratulations, Mark!
“I hope that this lesson shows students how complex
and complicated it is to determine what should be a
universally held right, and shows the range of viewpoints
within even one classroom, let alone across the global
community’s range of backgrounds, experiences and
views,” said Knechel.
Leadership continued from p. 5
While she serves as
interim head, Ruth’s
responsibilities as
principal will be handled
by Sara Rodney, assistant
principal, and another
administrator who will
most likely be hired from
outside the School’s
Ruth Greathouse
current faculty and staff
for the one-year interim
period. When a permanent head
an
of school has been hired, Ruth will
return to her role as principal. Mark Anderson
Receives
St. Louis Business
Journal Award
before becoming the
assistant head of school. In
2000 she assumed the role
of principal of Whitfield
School. Prior to Whitfield,
Ruth taught at Rosati Kain
and St. Roch’s Elementary
School. She earned a B.A.
in psychology and a B.S. in
communication disorders
from Saint Louis University.
“We are confident that
Ruth’s years of teaching
-Board Chair Mary Howe
and administrative
experience, her dedication
and commitment to our
mission, and her thorough understanding of our school
community will enable her to be an effective leader
during this period of transition,” said Mary Howe,
board chair.
The Secret Voice,
Whitfield’s annual
student-produced
magazine, displays
examples of
excellent work
in literature and
the arts, and
submissions are
accepted from the
School’s current
community. The
magazine earned
a First Class honor
rating from the
National Scholastic
Press Association
and was also awarded a Mark of Distinction for layout. Isabel
Braadbaart ’11 was editor-in-chief of the 2010 Secret Voice.
Do you have a story idea
for an upcoming
issue of Insights?
We’d like to hear it!
To submit your story ideas,
contact Director of Communications
and Marketing Becky Marsh at
[email protected],
314-415-1218 (phone),
314-434-6193 (fax) or mail to:
Insights
c/o Whitfield School
175 South Mason Road
St. Louis, MO 63141
13
I n Spired
I n Spired
Peter Leach ’11
3
1
2
6
Becca Mitchelson ’11 and Reybren Fitch ’11
4
5
Seen Show
Finalists
S
everal Whitfield photography students
were selected as finalists for the SEEN
2010 Photography Show. Every
December, Studio Altius in Maplewood, Mo.
holds the SEEN photography competition which
is a show that exhibits the best of photography
produced in the last year by local photographers. The competition
spans many genres of photography and there is no distinction made
between amateur and professional.
Flight of Fancy
7
1. “Lily Echo” by Shelly Rauvola ’12
2. “Foiled Star” Allison Skrainka ’12
T
his year’s high school fall play, “The Birds” by Aristophanes, combined slapstick comedy, political satire, music
and dance, fantasy and farce. Whitfield’s Director of Theatre, Amy Allen-Cano, and the fifty-member cast and
crew worked to combine seven different translations of this ancient comedy, which opened in Athens in 414 BCE, to
create their own unique version of the play. The set was designed to be a playground for the “birds” and the costumes
combined the tunics of classical Greece with an occasional pair of red go-go boots.
3. “Exhale” by Olivia Volarich ’11
4. “Music in the Market” by
Sammie Hellauer ’11
5. “Check Mate” by Abby Margulis ’11
6. “Stable” by Ian Scharf ’12
7. “Anchored” by Madeline Franz ’11
This year, six Whitfield students were named finalists for the show: Sammie Hellauer ’11, Abby Margulis ’11,
Pat McLaughlin ’12, Shelly Rauvola ’12, Allison Skrainka ’12, and Olivia Volarich ’11. Additionally, Madeline Franz ’11
and Ian Scharf ’12 each had a photograph selected for inclusion in the show’s coffee table book.
There were 344 submissions for this year’s show and 105 finalists were selected. First, second and third place awards
were given in a number of categories including an overall grand champion. Shelly Rauvola ’12 won third place in the
Film Category and Olivia Volarich ’11 won third place in the Portrait Category.
14
Moogie Brooks ’11
Twain’s Tale
Delights
W
hitfield’s middle school play, “The
Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras
County”, was performed on November 16-18,
2010. Set in a California gold-mining town, this
amusing adaptation of Mark Twain’s famous
short story tells the tale of Jim Smiley, who
decides to win his fortune by entering his frog in
the first annual Calaveras County Frog Jumping
Contest. The townspeople soon grow tired of
being duped by Jim and come up with a scheme
of their own.
15
I n step with
I n step with
Cross Country Runners
Go The Distance
D
epending on
your route, it’s
approximately 20 miles
from Whitfield’s campus
to the Gateway Arch.
Whitfield’s boys and girls
cross country teams ran
the equivalent of that
trip 23 times this season!
Including the distance
covered in their practices and
meets, cross country runners
each logged an average of
475 miles.
“We are on the cusp of
being a perennial first
or second place District
team for both the girls
and the boys teams.”
-Coach Matt Politte ’98
In his second year as Whitfield’s Head Cross
Country Coach, Matt Politte ‘98 intensified the
team’s level of training, adding more miles and
two morning workouts per week. “I felt it was
important to focus on a more rigorous training
program and to create a
sense of investment for the
athletes,” Coach Politte explained.
“Being here ready to run at 7:00 AM
requires a strong commitment to
yourself and to the team.”
Their training paid dividends during
eight regular season races as well
as at the District and State meets.
Julie Candau ‘13 won the District
Championship by winning the first
race of her career. At the State
meet, she finished fourth out of 159
runners with a time of 20:12 and
earned her second State individual
medal (23rd in 2009). Julie is now
the second highest individual place
finisher in the history of Whitfield’s cross
country program.
Three other Warriors qualified for
State and finished strong at the meet.
Elizabeth Lindburg ’12 placed 87th out
of 159 with a time of 23:12. John Henry
Beckmann ’14 placed 102nd out of 163
with a time of 19:12. David Lindburg ’12
placed 111th out of 163 with a time
of 19:23.
Post Season Honors
Missouri High School Soccer Coaches
Association (MSHSSCA)
All State Honors
The success of this year’s team has
created a sense of excitement for Whitfield cross country
according to Coach Politte. “We are on the cusp of being
a perennial first or second place District team for both the
girls and the boys teams,” Politte said. “With a strong
group returning next season, we should be in position to
compete for a District title.”
#1 in final poll
Bill Daues, Class 1 Coach of the Year
(private schools)
Nick Doherty ’11
Class 1 Offensive Player of the Year
First Team: Nick Doherty ’11, Matt Jordan ’11
Second Team: Curran Hammack ’11,
Joe Esrock ’11, David Genovese ’11
Honorable Mention: Nick Tobias ’13
Soccer Team Wins Seventh State Title
W
hitfield’s boys soccer team won the Class 1 State
Championship on Saturday, November 20, 2010
with a 1-0 victory over Springfield Catholic. This is the
second consecutive state title for the Warriors and their
seventh championship in the past nine seasons (2002,
2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010). They finished the
season 17-11-1.
advanced to the title game against John Burroughs
and beat the Bombers 2-0 on their home field. “This
year’s team demonstrated outstanding perseverance
and determination throughout the season,” Daues said.
“Whenever they had a tough stretch of games, they
always bounced back with a positive attitude and a
commitment to improve.”
Senior leadership was integral to this year’s success
according to Head Coach Bill Daues. “We had 14 seniors
on the team, and throughout the season they each
contributed to the accomplishments of the team,” Daues
said. “The commitment that these seniors made to
Whitfield’s soccer program for the past four years will
be remembered and will serve as an inspiration for years
to come.”
After wins over Lutheran North (2-0) and Bayless (3-2),
Whitfield returned to the Final Four for the ninth time.
With a 5-0 semifinal win over John F. Kennedy, Whitfield
advanced to the Championship to play Springfield
Catholic, a team that had beaten them 3-0 earlier in the
year. “We were not considered the favorite in the match
and our boys played their hearts out to defeat a very
good Springfield Catholic team,” said Daues. “This is
a championship that 20 years from now, these players
will look back and be proud of the way they performed
and gave their all to bring the seventh State Soccer
Championship to Whitfield.”
Although they were the defending State champs, the
Warriors were not expected to repeat this season.
Seeded third in the District Tournament, Whitfield
16
17
I n support
I n step with
Volleyball Team Serves Up Best
Season in School History
W
hitfield’s varsity volleyball
team finished the 2010-2011
season with a record of 27-6,
the best in school history. The
Warriors earned their sixth District
championship in the past nine years
and advanced to the quarterfinals
of the State Tournament before losing
to Hermann, the eventual Class 2 State
champs.
have truly inspired other girls to play volleyball and
to work hard to improve year after year.”
Both Kelly and Olivia will continue their
volleyball careers at the collegiate level.
Kelly signed with Providence College and
is Whitfield’s first Division I volleyball player.
Olivia will attend Emory University and plans
to play volleyball.
This year’s team was led by seniors Kelly Ashmore and
Olivia Volarich. “I think in many ways, this season was
the culmination of a ‘project’ that Kelly and Olivia started
when they came to Whitfield in seventh grade,” said Head
Coach Cipriano Casado. “Their commitment to building
our program during their middle and high school years
has been phenomenal. They have led by example and
After his 10th season, Coach Casado believes
the state of Whitfield’s volleyball program is strong.
“Whitfield is known for our volleyball program. We
have the momentum going and even with the loss of
two of our best players, we are going to continue to be
competitive. We are going to be good for a long time –
that’s what building a winning program means.”
Season Highlights
27-6 – best record in school history
MICDS and Pattonville
Tournament Championships
Sheri Diemer and Kathy Brown
Flip Cady ’70, Bill & Barbi Macon
and Bill Cady ’73
Flight A winner: Ron Fox ’73,
Ted Lucas,
John Allen,
Tony Romer
Flight B winner: Colin Smith ’00,
Tyler Shearburn,
Matt Sokolich ’96,
Andrew Budke ’96
Longest Drive: Barbi Macon (female)
Tyler Shearburn (male)
Closest to the Pin: Jerry Ullman
Winners of Flight B: Andrew Budke ’96,
Tyler Shearburn, Matt Sokolich ’96
and Colin Smith ’00
Greta & Bruce Talen, Denise & Drew Franz
Mike Chabot, Ned Williams,
Doug Rubenstein and Paul Diemer
Trivia Times Two
Kelly Ashmore ’11 - 1st team All District, 1st
team MWAA All Conference Blue Division, 1st
team and co-MVP MICDS Tournament
C
Olivia Volarich ’11- 1st team All District, 1st
team MWAA All Conference Blue Division, 1st
team and co-MVP MICDS Tournament
Set, Bump, Spike
K
elly Ashmore ‘11 signed a national letter of intent on
Wednesday, November 10, 2010, to attend Providence College
and play volleyball for the Friars. Kelly is Whitfield’s first studentathlete to play Division I volleyball. She helped lead the Warriors to
a record of 27-6 this season, the best in the program’s history. The
team advanced to the State quarterfinals before losing to Hermann,
the eventual Class 2 State champion.
18
hitfield’s annual
Golf Scramble &
Social was held Thursday,
October 7, 2010 at
Whitmoor Country
Club. Over 65 current
parents, alumni parents, alumni and
friends enjoyed a gorgeous day on
the course while raising $25,000 for
the School’s Annual Fund.
SAVE THE DATE:
Golf Scramble 2011 is September 22.
District Championship - 6th in past 9 seasons
Standing: Mark Anderson, Bill Daues
Seated: Coach Cipriano Casado, Kelly Ashmore ’11
and Assistant Coach Rob Kampen
Great Golf at Annual
Scramble and Social
W
“We are really excited about Kelly being with us in the fall,” said
Providence Head Coach Margot Royer-Johnson. “She can hit from
every position and has the ability to be in our serve receive patterns
as well. I can’t wait to coach her.”
urrent parents, alumni and alumni parents, friends,
faculty and staff gave their brains a workout at one
of two Trivia Nights held on Whitfield’s campus. The
first Whitfield Alumni
Trivia Night took place on
January 21, 2011 and was
a big success bringing 65
alumni, age 21 and over,
together for a night of
facts, fun and fundraising
in support of the School’s
alumni program through
the Annual Fund.
Several faculty members
participated including Mike
McGlew who was the MC,
Cyndy Alverson and Sheila
McCarthy as judges, and
Mischa Wright as the official
scorekeeper. Casey Jolley ’03, alumni relations and event
coordinator, wrote the questions. The winning table was
made up of Class of 2004 graduates and their friends.
Over 275 guests attended Whitfield’s
Third Annual Trivia Night on January 22,
2011. Gil and Shari Gross (Isabella ’14,
Maya ’16) helped plan the event again
this year. Gil crafted the questions and
served as MC, and Shari coordinated the
panel of judges. Nearly $6,000 was raised
for the Annual Fund, which supports the
exceptional people and programs that
make Whitfield such a wonderful school.
19
I n support
I n support
Widespread Support For Whitfield 2010
S
ince its quiet launch in 2006, the
Whitfield 2010 Campaign has raised
nearly $4.7 million for the School’s
endowment and capital needs.
During this campaign, several honorary
Faculty Chairs were established,
including chairs for the Languages
Department, Athletic Department, and
both Performing and Visual Arts. Funds
are currently being sought to establish a
Mathematics Department Chair, as well
as a Middle School Chair in memory of
former Whitfield teacher and parent,
Nancy Clukies.
Award, which highlights student
artwork on the printed cover of each
year’s Student/Parent Directory.
Mathematics Department
Front row: Nina Grote, Mike Quante,
Department Chair Tanya Bergantz
Back row: Nicole Randall,
Julie Linihan ’96, Janet Esrock,
Mischa Wright
In the last month, two current families stepped forward to
help reinstate a retirement matching program for faculty
and staff, beginning at a 2% match. In light of recent
economic circumstances, the School had been unable to
match faculty and staff retirement allocations during the
past two school years. Thanks to the generosity of these
two families, Whitfield is offering this employee benefit
once again.
In addition to the astounding generosity of both current
and alumni families during this campaign, several
organizations in St. Louis and beyond demonstrated
their appreciation of Whitfield’s mission by contributing
further major gifts.
The Visual Arts Faculty Chair mentioned above
was established by the local Arthur and Helen Baer
Foundation. You may also recognize the Baer Foundation
as the longtime sponsor of Whitfield’s annual Cover
The local Mary Ranken Jordan and
Ettie A. Jordan Charitable Foundation,
and the Allen and Josephine Green
Foundation, based in Mexico, Mo.,
both made major contributions in
support of need-based student financial
aid at Whitfield.
The Portland, Maine based Edward
E. Ford Foundation, which had
supported Whitfield’s brick and mortar
efforts in the School’s previous capital campaign; once
again made a major contribution, this time to build
endowed funds for the purpose of student financial aid.
The Foundation also helped motivate other Whitfield
benefactors to give by positioning its grant to the School
as a matching challenge.
Local corporation and longtime Whitfield supporter,
Emerson, has made two major gifts to Whitfield during
this most recent campaign period. In 2007, the company
participated in the matching challenge mentioned above.
Most recently, in December 2010, Emerson pledged a
substantial new gift to provide need-based assistance to
Whitfield student-volunteers who wish to participate in
international service-learning expeditions, such as last
year’s trip to Costa Rica.
Whitfield thanks all of these organizational benefactors
for joining with the School’s current and alumni families
in generously supporting the Whitfield 2010 Campaign.
New Baseball Facility
to Open in Spring of 2011
C
onstruction on Whitfield’s new baseball field is
almost complete! This facility is the only physical
component of the current Whitfield 2010 Campaign.
Over the last five months, construction crews have been
hard at work on building the beautiful new facility to
ensure availability for play this spring.
The new dugouts, bullpens and batting cage are all
a result of generous donations from current Whitfield
families. An anonymous benefactor has secured future
overall naming rights to the baseball facility. A few legacy
naming opportunities still exist for specific features,
including the grandstand.
20
Whitfield students, faculty and staff have enjoyed
watching the construction progress from the large
picture window in the dining room. The renovated field
will be just one more high quality space for the Whitfield
community to enjoy.
Plans are underway for Opening Day festivities on April 2,
2011. More information regarding Opening Day is on the
way soon!
The Gift
that keeps
on giving
S
upport for the Annual Fund this year
is proceeding well with over 62% of
current Whitfield families having already
made their gift or pledge. Alumni and
alumni parents are following suit with
increased participation, which goes a long
way in helping the School achieve its goal
of raising $1 million by June 30. As of
February 7, 2011, Whitfield has received
$653,890 in gifts and pledges.
Some have asked why the Annual Fund
is so essential to the success and daily
operation of the School. The answer
is that Whitfield’s tuition does not fully
cover the cost of a Whitfield education
and the dollars raised through the
Annual Fund help cover this deficit. The
difference, or gap, is approximately
$3,000 per student. While some families
make gifts at or beyond this level, many
families cannot make a gift of this size.
But what everyone can do is make a gift that
is meaningful for them. Every gift helps,
and every Whitfield student directly benefits
from the Annual Fund.
Class Particip
ation Levels
as of 02/07/11
Overall Parent 62%
6th - 84%
9th - 58%
7th - 47%
10th - 51%
8th - 62%
11th - 61%
12th - 71%
Raising an additional $1 million each year
is a challenge, but the School is fortunate
to be surrounded by a community of
benefactors which cares about the success
of its students and wants to support the
needs of the faculty. These individuals
step up each year because they know that the
Annual Fund helps provide the programs that offer some of the best student
experiences, including athletics, performing and visual arts, student leadership programs, and so much more.
This past November, Whitfield’s faculty and staff reached 100% Annual Fund participation along with the
Board of Trustees, showing their strong commitment to Whitfield. Please join with these groups, if you haven’t
already, by making your gift or pledge today. Every gift, regardless of the amount, helps Whitfield provide the
best educational experience.
If you have already made your Annual Fund gift or pledge, thank you! To make your gift or pledge online,
visit Whitfield’s Web site at www.whitfieldschool.org/annualfund.
Please contact Kelly Edwards, director of development, at 314-415-1254, or Michelle Parsons, assistant director
of development, at 314-415-1213, with any questions.
Thank you to all of the benefactors who helped make the
new facility a reality.
21
I n support
I n touch
Gifts with Class
Alumni Notes
D
uring the Whitfield 2010 Campaign, two current
families that made major gifts to the School’s
Endowment Fund were invited to permanently name
academic classrooms as a way for Whitfield to recognize
their generosity.
Susan Shepherd Ittner (Susanne ’11), along with her
parents, Charles and Susanne Shepherd, used the
opportunity to honor Whitfield’s first-rate science
program, specifically by naming a Biology Classroom.
Susan Feigenbaum and Jay Pepose (David ’04, Max ’13,
Morissa ’13, and Sam ’13) chose to honor teacher Sheila
McCarthy and the outstanding Latin program she has
run for Whitfield since the 1980’s by naming her
instructional space.
Certain other Whitfield classrooms were named
as honorary or memorial tributes during previous
fundraising campaigns, but many rooms remain available
for families or alumni interested in making legacy gifts.
1990s
Tony Spielberg ’90 Tony’s wife Lauren
had a baby boy, Brody Spielberg in September.
“Naming opportunities are a wonderful and unique way
to honor a child, parent, teacher, or other beloved person
or program,” notes development director Kelly Edwards.
“In addition to making a meaningful expression today,
these named spaces also become part of the Whitfield
story for future generations.”
Academic classrooms are just one of the types of naming
opportunities available at Whitfield, with options ranging
throughout all giving levels. For more information,
please contact Director of Development Kelly Edwards
at 314-415-1254 or [email protected].
ROCK OUT AND SUPPORT WHITFIELD!
P
lans are underway for a rockin’ Montage auction.
This year’s theme, “Whitfield Will ROCK You!”
promises to be a fun night for all! 2010 Montage
co-chairs, Sheri Diemer (Blake ’10, Griffin ’12) and
Stacy Rubenstein (David ’12, Michael ’15) are back for
another “tour” leading the committee in planning an
auction that is sure to be a great success for Whitfield.
The auction will be held in Cady Athletic Center on
Saturday, April 30, 2011. Doors open at 6:00 PM for
cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and silent auction bidding.
Our silent auction line-up includes something for
everyone from “Dining Out” to “It’s A Guy Thing”
categories to everything in between.
In honor of this year’s theme, attire is casual and cool.
Feel free to come as your favorite rocker or in your most
memorable concert T-shirt and jeans!
The silent auction will conclude at
8:00 PM followed by a three-course sit
down dinner. After dessert, the live
auction will begin. Whitfield is
excited to have Malcolm Ivey,
President and Owner of Ivey
Selkirk Auctioneers & Appraisers,
22
To submit information, please e-mail [email protected], visit www.whitfieldschool.org
or mail to Alumni Notes/Insights Whitfield School • 175 South Mason Road • St. Louis, MO 63141
donating his auctioneer services again this year. Top live
auction items currently include a Napa Valley wine tasting
trip, a Cabo San Lucas vacation, diamond hoop earrings,
and private chef dinners to name a few. More great live
items are in the works so be on the look out for updates!
The party doesn’t end there. Whitfield dad and Trustee,
Myles Kelly, and his band Rockin’ Chair are back for
a second time as the official Montage after-party
entertainment. Rock on!!!!
The committee invites you to join the fun and hopes you
will join us for what is sure to be the best auction to date!
Donations of all kinds are still needed. To donate or
volunteer visit www.whitfieldschool.org/supportus and
click on the Montage tab.
For more information please contact
Whitfield’s Director of Development,
Kelly Edwards at 314-415-1254 or
[email protected]
Laura Lotz ’95
married Harold Barker
this summer.
Alumni @ Homecoming
H
omecoming festivities brought
Whitfield alumni back on campus
on October 2nd. For a full account
of Homecoming Weekend, please see
pages 6 and 7.
2000s
Margot
McMahon ’00
graduated from
the University of
Iowa in 2005
with a degree in
health and
sports studies,
psychology and leisure studies. Margot is
currently a field hockey assistant coach and a
personal trainer in the St. Louis area. She
married Martin George ’97 this past fall.
Katy Ronkoski Crocker ’01 had
twin baby girls in November, Madison
and Morgan.
Terrill Estabrook ’02 started a
new business called Messy Girl Home
Organization. (www.messygirlhomeorganization.com)
Mark ’96 & Chrissy Baden with
their kids in tow.
Kristen Deffaa Rhodes ’99
and husband Scott Rhodes ’98
with their trio of tots.
Matt ’96 & Rachel Sokolich with
their kids.
David
Greathouse ’02
married Megan
this summer in a
beautiful ceremony
held on SLU’s
campus. The
reception was at
Union Station.
Whitney Key ’02 is attending Washington
University pursuing her masters in social
work and public health.
Laura Sienaski Lancia ’02 married
Anthony Lancia this summer.
Kegan Fisher ’03 co-founded
a great company called Design Glut
(www.designglut.com). They have some
amazing contemporary artwork and jewelry.
Kelli Lasky ’03 was recently engaged to
Nick Caldwell.
Katie Bahn ’04 competed in an Ironman
Triathalon this summer and finished
swimming 2.4 miles, biking 112 miles, and
running 26.2 miles in 14 hours and
2 minutes.
ALUMNI SOCCER PLAYERS: Flip Cady ’70, Coach Bill Daues, Brian Rogers ’92,
Henry Cordeal ’06, Ted Jacobi ’06, Evan Milnor ’06, Mark Baden ’96,
Paul Schifano ’05, Randy Birkenmeier ’05.
Renny Esser ’04 is a financial advisor for
Edward Jones Company in Indiana.
Katie Schuster ’04 is training with United
Airlines to join the team as a flight attendant.
Look for her on your next flight.
Aly Thomure ’04 is working at Osh Kosh
B’Gosh as an assistant designer in infant and
toddler sleepwear.
Alice Marie Wolter ’04 recently
graduated from UMSL with her masters
in secondary education.
Alison Barash ’05 is working at
International Creative Management in
Los Angeles with the head of the Motion
Picture Literary Department.
Laura Beth Levy ’05 is currently working
as the marketing coordinator for E-Guide TV
in Dallas, Texas.
23
I n touch
I n touch
Q&A with Peter Greathouse ‘05
F
ans of Whitfield theater are likely to remember
Peter Greathouse ‘05 for his performances in
“Fiddler on the Roof,” “The Matchmaker,” “Pirates
of Penzance,” the Student-Directed One-Acts
and a variety of vocal music concerts. Peter
continued his acting career at Chapman University,
graduating in May 2010 with a BFA in Theater
Performance. As a certified Advanced Theatrical
Combatant, he recently performed with the
San Francisco Opera Company in “Cyrano de
Bergerac” (October 24-November 12, 2010)
alongside Placido Domingo.
Q: Tell us about your role as a fencer
in “Cyrano”.
A: Performing in “Cyrano” was a
fantastic experience. Getting this
job legitimized, for me, the amount
of time and money that I have
spent over the years on my stage
combat training – a passion that I
first discovered during my years at
Whitfield. Youthful vigor was a plus
as I managed to survive my 10 falls
during each performance without
injury. There were several amazing
moments related to working with
Placido Domingo, including hearing
him sing while we were riding in
an elevator.
Q: What are your upcoming jobs/roles?
A: I have been hired for another
job with the San Francisco Opera
Company which begins in August
2011. It is the world premiere
of “Heart of a Soldier,” the true
story of two soldiers who became
friends during the Vietnam War
and remained so even though their
lives took different paths. One man
became a Muslim and moved to
the Middle East and the other, Rick
Rescorla, became a security guard
at the World Trade Center and died
on September 11th. I will play a
soldier and possibly a fireman. In
non-opera related career news, I plan
to continue to do work similar to the
feature in which I was cast earlier in
2010, “The 7 Adventures of Sinbad”
(currently available on Netflix and
streaming on Instant Netflix).
Q: What advice do you have for
young thespians as they consider
a career in theater?
A: Be prepared for your college
professors to do their best to scare
you on day one. Be ready for them
to tell you, “If you can do anything
other than this, if you can be
anything other than an actor and
be completely fulfilled and happy,
leave now and don’t look back.
This process is incredibly hard,
emotionally taxing and you will very
likely be poor.” I certainly heard that
from my professors at the beginning.
And this process is indeed hard and
emotionally taxing, and yes, you
may well find yourself becoming
a connoisseur of peanut butter
and jelly sandwiches while your
business-major friends are buying
cars. But man, do you feel alive!
EVAN MILNOR ’06 RECEIVES
COMMISSION IN MARINE CORPS
E
van Milnor ’06 was commissioned as a second lieutenant
in the United States Marine Corps on Sunday, August 29,
2010. He graduated from Georgetown University in May.
Evan completed the first, six-week session of Officer Candidate
School (OCS) after his freshman year of college and the
second, six-week session after his junior year. He graduated
from OCS in the summer of 2009. Evan will continue his
training at Quantico beginning in March 2011. Joining Evan
and his family in Washington, D.C. for the commissioning
were Whitfield faculty member, Sheila McCarthy and the
entire Tchoukaleff family (Peter ’06, Anna ’10).
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Matt Wright ’05 is working with Echo
Logistics in Chicago.
Alumni Hockey Game
W
hitfield’s annual alumni
hockey game was held
January 2, 2011. Alumni
players took the ice and faced-off
against the current varsity team. It
was a spirited and high-scoring game.
Alexandra Hammack ’06 graduated
from SMU this past May with a degree in
finance and French. She is now working at
Enterprise in Dallas.
Dylan Schmitter ’06 graduated from
Purdue University and is now pursuing a
masters in sustainable manufacturing.
Liz Walters ’06 is a graphic
designer and project manager for
A. Brothers Associates.
Carolyn Cady ’07 is attending SLU where
she is on the dean’s list. Carolyn started her
own cupcake business called CadyCakes.
She donates 10% of each order price to
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Back row: Carter Desloge ’12,
Taylor Carney ’12, Ian Williams ’14,
Zack Parker ’15, Jon Esrock ’14, Trey Mohme ’10, Elliot Williams ’12, Ryan MacInnis ’14, Harry Londoff ’11, Colin Smith ’00, Russ
Bodner ’03, Drew Jolley ’08, Seth Williams ’05, Carson MacInnis ’10, Andrew Freund ’08, David Proudfoot ’02, Johnny Londoff ’08
Front Row: Alan Eidelman ’14, Jake Andrews ’12, Hunt Lucas ’12, Coach Jim Campbell and his son, Mike Williams ’08, John Lucas
’07, Coach John Londoff, Sam Bodner ’07, John Freund ’06
Class of 1970
40th Reunion
Kyle Clawson ’07 is in his senior year of
the five-year MBA program at Rockhurst. He
was the starting goalie again this season for
the men’s soccer team.
W
Kennan Conrad ’07 is a senior at
Georgetown majoring in government. He is
a member of the Georgetown rugby team.
Molly Cravens ’07 is working at TCU’s rec
center where she is the facilities team leader.
Tess DeLean ’07 rejoined the fencing
team at Wellesley after returning from her
semester and summer abroad.
Meryl Koch ’07 is the V.P. of social
standards for the Delta Gamma house
at The University of Miami. She is also a
member of the Alpha Eta Mu Beta Biomedical
Engineering Honor Society.
Wrestling Mat Dedication
A
dedication ceremony for the
Warriors’ individual champion
wrestling mat was held December 22,
2010 during the meet with Alton, Fox
and Kirkwood High Schools.
The mat features the names and
championship seasons for each of
Whitfield’s individual state wrestling
champions.
Leah Krieger ’07 is a member of the Tri
Sigma sorority. She worked as a research
assistant this past summer at Elon in the
chemistry department.
Kierstyn Olliff ’07 graduated with
a degree in medical assisting and is now
attending Maryville University in the
Nursing Program.
Austin Ressler ’07 is attending Maryville
University.
Katy Wadsworth’07 is a member of the
Delta Delta Delta sorority and Panhellenic
Recruitment Chair at Elon.
Kezmen Clifton ’08 is a member of the
Pi Beta Phi sorority at Princeton.
Eric Denson ’08 is a psychology major
at Knox College.
Ted Dozier ’08 is studying abroad in
Florence, Italy this semester.
hitfield’s class of 1970 celebrated
their 40th reunion on October
16, 2010. Alumni and their spouses
gathered in the Barnes & Cole Alumni
House for an evening of reminiscing
about their high school days. A second
gathering was held at Schneithorst’s
on November 20 for those who were
unable to attend. Over half of the
29 members of the class attended
both events.
Grant Hammack ’08 is a member of
the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and is
majoring in civil engineering at Southern
Methodist University.
Chloe Colbert ’09 is an international
affairs major at George Washington
University and this fall she interned with
Homeland Security.
Kate Hefler ’08 is attending Emerson
College where she is working towards a
marketing and communications major. She
is also a tour guide for the admissions office
and Vice President of her sorority, Kappa
Gamma Chi.
Jillian Conrad ’09 is currently a
sophomore at Georgetown where she is
majoring in English.
Andrew Jolley ’08 is a starter for the
Dayton Flyers hockey team.
Back Row: John & Rhonda Bordeaux
(Chris Upchurch ’05), Greg Ott (Jason
Ott ’09), Ryan Jones ’08, Austin
Smith ’08, Ethel & Thomas Tulley
(Dan Tulley ’04), George & Lori Hovis
(Drake Hovis ’04, Conor Hovis ’11).
Front Row: Ryan Mango ’09, Conor
Hovis ’11, Mike Kissell ’11
Sara Freund ’08 is a member of the
Tennis Club and Pi Beta Phi sorority at Drury
University. She recently traveled to Florence,
Italy for school and loved the experience.
Jay Gard ’08 is a member of the Zeta
Psi fraternity at Tulane.
Back row: Flip Cady, Ted Engler,
Gordie Wiegand, Brian Brereton,
John Brunner
Front row: Ann Novak, Lockwood
Hill, Jane Piper Gleason
Catherine Polk ’08 is V.P. of the Black
Student Union as well as a residential
advisor at Colgate University. She also works
as an advisor/counselor for the Office of
Undergraduate Studies.
Jayce Reese ’08 is a member of the
Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority at University
of Missouri – Kansas City.
Jennifer Chao ’09 graduated from the
University of Georgia in 2010 with a B.S. in
family and consumer sciences. She is now
working for the Clayton School District as an
early childhood educator.
Tori Clodfelter ’09 is on the house
projects committee for Kappa Delta
at Vanderbilt.
Bryan Correll ’09 is attending
Rose-Hulman and is an officer in the rock
climbing club.
Molly Edwards ’09 is a member of
the Delta Delta Delta sorority at University
of Kentucky.
Gigi Esser ’09 is attending Wake Forest and
is a double major in English and economics.
She is a member of APO, a service learning
fraternity, and is also a member of the
community service council.
Hadley Graham ’09 is a member of the
SMU equestrian team as well as a Delta
Gamma sister.
David Human ’09 is playing tennis
for Sewanee.
Jessi Kraemer ’09 is the assistant
standards chair of Alpha Omicron Pi and
a member of the National Society for
Collegiate Scholars at University of Evansville.
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I n touch
I n touch
Alumni Feature • Sari Rotskoff ’00
W
hen Sari Rotskoff graduated from Whitfield a
decade ago, she left with wonderful memories of
her teachers, but without specific designs on following
in their footsteps to pursue a teaching career. She
wrote to her Whitfield teachers on her senior page: “I
can only hope that my professors in the years to come
will be as intelligent, supportive,
understanding, talented and
inspiring as you are. I admire the
passion and love you have for
your careers – I will strive to have
this in mine.”
After earning a B.A. in English
literature and creative writing
from Sarah Lawrence College,
Sari returned to St. Louis and
accepted an internship at ALIVE
(Alternatives to Living in Violent
Environments). “I have always
had a passion for community
involvement and a strong interest
in women’s issues,” Rotskoff
explained her transition from
creative writing to social work.
“I wanted to get involved and
make a difference in the St. Louis
community.”
“I have always had a
passion for community
involvement and a strong
interest in women’s issues.
I wanted to get involved and
make a difference in the
St. Louis community.”
During the 12-month internship,
Sari managed crisis hotline calls,
conducted in-take interviews and
arranged emergency shelter for
clients. “Working at ALIVE was
a rewarding experience. I was
inspired by working alongside several women who had
their Master’s in Social Work and I decided to apply to
Washington University’s Brown School of Social Work.”
While completing the three-year masters program (she
graduated with an MSW in May 2009), Sari focused on
the issues of violence against women and reproductive
health. She interned at two agencies, RAVEN (a local
violence-prevention group) and Planned Parenthood,
working with adolescents in both places.
Although the work was rewarding, something was
missing. “I really missed creative writing and studying
literature but I did not want to give up my connection
with teens,” said Rotskoff. “I wanted to combine my
love for working with adolescents and my long-time
interest in the humanities – what better career to do
that with than teaching.”
26
Sari made the decision to return to Washington
University to earn an advanced graduate certificate in
education certifying her to teach high school English.
Now in her second year, Sari had to fulfill a 100 hour
observation requirement, so she contacted Whitfield
faculty member Larry Hays. “I loved my Whitfield
experience and hoped that Larry
would allow me to complete my
observation requirement in his
classroom,” Rotskoff recalled.
Hays agreed and welcomed
back his former student. “Over
the years, I’ve had many folks
observe my classes, but this is
the first time I’ve had a former
student teach in my classroom,”
Hays said. “It is rewarding for
me to see former students who
are interested in a career in the
field of education. I believe
that means that they saw value
in what they experienced
here at Whitfield and that we
participated successfully in their
education.”
Rotskoff completed her
observation hours in December
2010. “All of the great things that
I remember about my Whitfield
experience are still the same - the
student-centered environment,
the talented faculty, the focus on
collaboration and the classroom
seminar discussions,” Rotskoff said after her recent
ten-week teaching experience.
While noting improvements such as the changes in the
facility and the inclusion of technology as a teaching
and learning tool, Sari points to Whitfield’s culture
as the strongest draw. “Mark Anderson’s leadership
has set such a wonderful, positive tone for adults and
students alike. He personifies the Whitfield culture of
‘Be Kind and Do the Right Thing.’ I feel such a strong
sense of respect and community at Morning Assembly,
in the halls, at lunch and certainly in the classroom.”
Rotskoff is on track to complete the Washington
University graduate certification program in December
2011. “Wherever I teach in the future,” said Rotskoff, “I
know that I will draw upon my amazing experiences at
Whitfield, both as a student and as a student-teacher.”
Andy Leach ’09 is a member of the
Zeta Psi fraternity and is working as a
residential advisor at Tulane.
Class of 2005 Celebrates Five-Year Reunion
Allyson Lewis ’09 is studying
early childhood education at University
of Arizona.
Kristen Mash ’09 performed a
solo violin performance of La Folia
at Lake Forest College in December.
She is second violin in the Lake Forest
Orchestra and is busy writing her
first quartet.
Ryan McGrath ’09 joined Phi Kappa
Psi fraternity last spring. He is also
playing Lacrosse on Butler’s club team.
Jessica McLean ’09 is attending
Centre College where she plays field
hockey and is a member of Kappa Alpha
Theta sorority.
Adam Rosen ’09 joined Zeta Beta Tau
this fall at the University of Denver and is
serving as the orientation leader for the
freshmen class.
Joe Sinnott ’09 has been on the
dean’s list both semesters during his
freshman year at Syracuse University.
Kory Clawson ’10 is attending the
University of Southern Indiana. He was a
starter on the men’s varsity soccer team
this season.
T
he Class of 2005 celebrated
their five-year reunion on
November 26, 2010 in Schmitter
Gallery at Whitfield. There was
a great turn-out and everyone
enjoyed catching up with friends
while watching their graduation
video, looking through yearbooks
and remembering all the fun times
enjoyed during their years at
Whitfield. After the event, much
of the crowd joined the other group
of alumni at Sky Music Lounge for
the Annual Alumni Happy Hour
(see below).
Jon Schultz and
Kim Goldstein
Anthony French and
Nicole Williams
Tyler Ituen ’10 is attending Morehead
State University where she is playing on
the women’s basketball team.
Alec Slavin ’10 was recruited to fence
at Lawrence University and will be
competing over the winter season.
Martin Tobias ’10 is a starter on the
Ohio Wesleyan University men’s soccer
team that is ranked in the top 10 of
Division III Schools.
A lumni
H oliday
Happy Hour
Kyle Tisone, Doug Londoff,
Matt Wright and Mike Buffa
Lauren Grossman
and Stephanie Gold
W
hitfield’s Annual Alumni Holiday Happy Hour was on Friday, November 26, 2010 at Sky Music
Lounge in Chesterfield, Mo. Over 70 alumni attended and mingled with fellow graduates while
listening to the band Brothers Grimm play on stage. The band is composed of Austin Smith ’08,
Colin Smith ’00, Ryan Estabrook ’00, Seth Williams ’05 and Jared Fischer. It was a great night for everyone!
Julie Schnidman ’04,
Alice Marie Wolter ’04,
Jennifer Serot ’04, Julie Harber ’04
Katie Conyers ’98 and
Elizabeth Conyers ’02
Jared Fischer, Austin Smith ’08, Ryan Estabrook ’00,
Colin Smith ’00 and Seth Williams ’05
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