The Magazine of Lexington Christian Academy

Transcription

Winter/Spring 2012
29909.indd 1
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Each year, hundreds of alumni, parents, and friends show their
support for LCA by giving to the Academy Fund. The Academy
Fund provides unrestricted funds for current operating expenses and
gives LCA the flexibility to meet our most pressing priorities. We
are pleased to invite you to carry the torch and light the way for our
students by becoming a member of our leadership giving society.
The Torchbearer Society offers an opportunity for LCA to demonstrate
deep appreciation to those whose commitment of $1,000 or more
provides the Academy with an especially strong financial foundation.
Members of the Torchbearer Society are distinguished by their
generous support of the Academy’s highest funding priorities. Every
gift to LCA is valued and appreciated; however, it is the leadership
giving that propels the continued growth of the Academy Fund.
The generosity of our donors has helped to guide and strengthen the
LCA experience and allow us to remain true to our mission. Be a
torchbearer. Light the way.
29909.indd 2
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Table of Contents
Board of Trustees, 2011–2012
James M. Bolton ’72, Chair
Robert A. Lawrence, Vice-Chair
Gerald Moore, Treasurer
Diane C. Cambourelis ’82, Clerk
Melanie Bilazarian
Mark Boivin
Joseph Dattilo
Steven DesRochers
Stephen H. Haig
Nancy Hill
Eric Mollenhauer ’89
Charles T. Pu
Michael Stevens ’87
Beth Somers Stutzman
Wallace W. Wadman
Frank E. Wheatley III
Trustees Emeriti
Richard Armstrong ’53
Gordon J. VanderBrug
Head of School
Mark R. Davis
Editor, The Academy Lantern
Director of Marketing
Theresa A. Morin
Director of Academy Fund
Cynthia A. Nelson
Graphic Designer
Catherine Stramer
Special Thanks
Joanna Smith and all of the LCA
community members who
contributed to this edition.
Photographers
Thank you to the many faculty,
staff, parents, alumni, students,
and friends who generously
shared their photos for this
publication.
Mission Statement
Lexington Christian Academy is
an independent college preparatory school that exists to educate
young men and women in the
arts and sciences in the context of
a complete commitment to the
historic Christian faith.
Lexington Christian Academy
admits students of any race, color,
religious affiliation, and national
and ethnic origin to all the rights,
privileges, programs, and activities
generally accorded or made available
to students at our school. This school
is authorized under Federal law
to enroll nonimmigrant students.
Questions should be directed to
the Head of School.
The Academy Lantern is published
by Lexington Christian Academy
and distributed by
Cindy (Colby ’72) Miller of
Miller Outpost Mail Service.
The Academy Lantern
Winter/Spring 2012 | Page 1
29909.indd 3
2
From Head of School Mark Davis
3
Trustee News
4–7
Introducing the LCA Boarding Program
4
The Best of Both Worlds
5
Welcome Home to LCA
6
The Miracle Down the Street
7
The Birthplace of the Nation
8–15
Scene Around Campus
8–10 Student Achievements
11
Faculty and Staff News
12–13 Lions Sports News
14–15 Arts at LCA
16–17 Homecoming
16
Distinguished Alumni Awards
17
Athletics Hall of Fame
18–19 Commencement 2011
20–24 Class Notes & Reunions
25–27 In Memoriam
28–29 Alumni in Action
28
Like Father, Like Son: Coaches Patrie
29
Darcy Dwyer, Fulbright Scholar
29
Calendar of Upcoming Events
Boarders
pages 4–7
Athletes
pages 12–13
Artists
pages 14–15
Leaders
pages 18–19
3/6/12 2:28 PM
From the
Head of School
Dear Friends,
The Academy Lantern has reached your
home and we are glad to welcome you
to many wonderful glimpses into life
at Lexington Christian Academy. As
you browse through the pages of this
edition, it is our hope that you will be
reminded of your own experiences as
a Middle and Upper School student, perhaps walking the halls of
LCA not all that long ago.
The pictures you see and the stories you read all reflect the beauty of God’s
people at LCA—teachers whose hearts and skills bend toward students,
mentoring, coaching, and instructing their understudies through their disciplines,
and students who mirror their teachers—the generations caring for each other in
thought, word, and deed.
I am so very proud of our students’ accomplishments. Just recently I was able to
recognize Gretchen Durning ’12 for earning the distinction of National Merit Finalist.
She was but one of our students vying for this coveted honor. I am equally proud of David
Newell ’13, who was recently named the Most Valuable wrestler for the Eastern Independent
League. And I can’t forget the impeccable acting of Sophie Sparrow ’13 in LCA’s most recent
play, The Importance of Being Earnest. And, my memory keeps flashing back to Kevin Lee’s ’13
Boston Globe award-winning self portrait.
Being proud of our students doesn’t begin and end with outstanding performances. As in much
of life under God’s care, it is the silent and quiet acts of instruction, learning, and lovingkindness that influence us the most. The same is true at LCA.
How can I do anything but marvel when I see Nicholas Karinge ’14 praising God with his whole
being in Chapel? How can I be anything but amazed at the outpouring of prayers and love when
a student was injured in a basketball game? (She is now fine.) How can I respond in any other
way than through thanks when I observe Mr. Jake Hoffman ’64, stretched to the limit in a given
day, taking yet another hour to explain a chemistry equation to a student who needs him? How
will I ever be able to thank each student who opens a door with a smile or who expresses a sincere
word of gratitude for an act of kindness?
We all mirror, reflect, and demonstrate God’s image. He is a God of great accomplishment, praise, love,
thanksgiving, service, and infinitely more attributes. The pages you are about to read and pictures you
see reflect the image of God in our community. We learn, give, grow, and love because Christ our Lord
has done such for us. Join me now as we thank God for the stories and pictures of His people at LCA.
And, enjoy The Academy Lantern.
Sincerely,
Mark R. Davis, P ’10
Head of School
Reflective sketch by
Mark Davis (1999).
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 4
3/6/12 2:28 PM
From the Chairman
of the Board
From the Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Dear Friends of Lexington Christian Academy,
Since LCA first opened its doors in 1946, our mission has remained steadfast: to educate young men
and women in the arts and sciences in the context of a complete commitment to the historic Christian
faith. As we reflect on the successes of this academic year already half over, and prepare to honor our
graduating Class of 2012 and welcome new students this fall, we feel a sense of excitement and promise.
The deep joy of learning and living that we feel—and that our visitors to campus see—is what makes
LCA such a unique educational environment.
In the midst of our gratitude for the present and in anticipation of our bright future, we pause to express
our appreciation to our Head of School Mark Davis. Mark has served our students, parents, teachers, staff, administration, trustees,
alumni, and friends for nearly six years now. And although he has announced that he will be leaving LCA at the close of this school
year to be closer to his and his wife’s families, we still have many days ahead to be blessed by Mark’s headship.
You can be assured that the Board of Trustees is prayerfully moving forward with the search process for a new head of school. We are
committed to making the transition as seamless as possible. In the meantime, we remain deeply dedicated to upholding both our Mission
and our Vision. We know that God is sovereign in all matters, and we have every confidence in His provision for the LCA community.
The future leaders of our world, now more than ever, need an excellent college preparatory Christian education. We are excited about
our current student leaders in grades 6–12, and about our new students arriving from as near as Lexington and as far as China. As a
graduate of LCA, I can personally attest to the lifelong impact of our educational programs. I was well prepared for college, law school,
career, and family life. My wife, Paula, and I have been pleased to see our own three children (Rebekah, Joshua, and Hannah) attend
LCA. My LCA story is just one of many since our Academy first opened its doors in downtown Boston. Inside these pages you’ll find
more stories of how teachers, students, coaches, alumni, and friends are shaping each other’s lives and making a world of difference.
Join me in extending a warm welcome
to our new trustees . . .
Very truly yours,
Jim Bolton ’72, P ’06, ’08, ’14
Chairman, LCA Board of Trustees
Please join me in thanking our outgoing trustees
for their faithful service and for making an
eternal difference . . .
Nancy E. Hill, Ph.D.
Nancy Hill is a Professor at Harvard University’s Graduate
School of Education and the Suzanne Young Murray
Professor at Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at
Harvard University. Nancy and her husband, Rendall
Howell, are parents to their son, Theodore, and niece,
Taylor ’16.
Joshua Bennett ’93, M.B.A.
M. Eric Mollenhauer ’89, B.A.
Thom Lachman, M.B.A., P ’x12, ’x15
Michael (Mike) Stevens ’87, B.S.
Andy Mills, M.B.A., P ’04, ’05, ’14
Frank (Ted) Wheatley, B.S.
Joshua Bennett is a Principal of
Investment Research at M.A.
Weatherbie & Company; Served
LCA’s Board of Trustees 2001–2011.
Thom Lachman is President of Proctor
and Gamble, Canada; Served LCA’s
Board of Trustees 2008–2011.
Chairman of the Board, The King’s
College, NYC; Co-Chair, The Theology
of Work Project. Served LCA’s Board of
Trustees 2000–2011.
A Chartered Financial Analyst, Eric Mollenhauer is Portfolio
Manager for Fidelity Investments High Income Group. Eric
and his wife, Beth, have five children, Keli (17), Ben (11),
Joy (9), Luke (7), and Sarah (6).
Mike Stevens is Managing Director of State Street Global
Advisors and Director of National Sales for the Intermediary
Business Group. Mike holds his FINRA Series 7 and 63 licenses.
Mike and his wife, Carolyn ’87, have three children, Madison
’15, James John ’18, and Jillian (9). Mike and Carolyn also serve
at LCA as Parent Representatives for the Class of 2015.
Ted Wheatley is Executive Vice President at Jones Lang LaSalle,
and has been a commercial real estate broker/advisor since
1981. Ted and his wife, Lynda, are parents of Frank ’04,
Carolyn ’06, Sam ’08, Rob ’11, and Peter ’14. Ted and
Lynda served as the Co-Chairs of the Parent Community
for LCA from 2006–2011, and Ted served as a non-voting
member of the Board of Trustees in this capacity.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 5
3/6/12 2:28 PM
The LCA Boarding
Program
Now national and international students can enjoy the best of both worlds—the academic rigors of a
private day school college preparatory program with the benefits of a complete language and life immersion
experience of American culture—all with a Christian worldview.
y
The Boarding Program at LCA was created through an
exclusive arrangement with Lexington Preparatory School,
a luxurious residence large enough to house 90 students.
The dormitories sit on a beautiful, tree-lined hillside within
easy walking distance of LCA’s main campus. The facility
consists of four different interconnected multilevel buildings, all leading to the campus crown jewel—a breathtaking
Victorian mansion.
At LCA’s Residential Life Program, students live in
community with each other in a welcoming environment
that builds positive relationships that last a lifetime. Boarding
students participate in a special 10-month curriculum,
developed exclusively for them. Evening activities and
weekend opportunities around a central theme provide
every student a comprehensive American experience.
Curriculum activities include:
• Field trips to historic parks, museums, and events to
provide international students a greater appreciation for
American culture and history
• Day trips to historic Greater Boston, home of Harvard,
MIT, and many other world-class universities
• Weekend home-stay opportunities (students are invited
to Thanksgiving and Easter with an American family,
for example)
• Systematic goals for peer study periods and expert tutoring
For more information, please visit lca.edu or contact Brook
Berry, Director of Admission, at 781.862.7850 x152 or at
[email protected].
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 6
3/6/12 2:28 PM
The LCA Boarding
Program
Welcome Home to LCA
by Kate Young Caley, P ’08, Director of College Advising & Director of Residential Life
September 2011
It is Saturday morning and I have a small piece
of paper tucked in my pocket that reads: Flight
#1054. China to San Francisco. Ying Xuan Li.
Three nights before I had hauled my belongings
—books, clothes, photographs of home—and
upacked them at Lexington Prep School,
LCA’s new Boarding residence. I have signed
on to be the Director of Residential Life and I
am about to find out what that means.
I am well acquainted with Boston’s Logan
International Airport. I am not one who is
afraid of driving; the city and I have always had
a relaxed relationship. But this morning I am a
nervous driver, checking and re-checking signs
and turns, as if I did not know my way around
central parking and the swans and minutemen
signs intended to guide the uninitiated through
the maze that is parking at Logan.
On the drive to our new life I ask questions and
also try to leave room for quiet. The moment I
remember most clearly was her telling me she
had just returned from hiking in Tibet with
her mother. And I turn toward her and realize
that I do not know all there is to know about
this girl. She is so much more than a seemingly
shy young woman with polite manners and
reticence. She is not weak. Her deep cough that
I was becoming concerned about is actually her
lungs adjusting from the altitude of one of the
highest mountains in the world to the sea-level
streets of Lexington, Massachusetts.
She is small, her two suitcases almost bigger
than she. She is weary and hugs a bright green
elephant pillow to her chest. And though I
do not know her, everything about her says, I
have come far.
nL
And so, I stand at the carousel of people and
luggage and languages. I hold my sign a little
higher. Then, I see her. There is a parting.
The crowds have emptied around her, around
me, and now we face each other across the
expanse of baggage claim.
i)
I have made a large sign in bold black marker
on white posterboard that reads: Emily Li. I
hope she will remember this new American
name she has chosen for her new American life.
in g
y (Y
Emil
Xu
a
She is a strong girl. Very strong. Very brave.
so far but they will teach me others that I will
need to know. And I will teach them. As will the
teachers at LCA, and the students and staff and
coaches and parent community who welcome
them to our richly diverse student body and new
Residential Living Program. There is much we
all have to learn in this new life. For this season, I
am thankful we will do it together.
P.S. January 2012
As LCA’s Christmas vacation came to a close,
my colleague, Ryan Patrie ’03, and I shared
pick-up runs to Logan Airport to gather up
our returning students. The last run was a late
one but I especially wanted to do it. Just as I
pulled up to the curb, Emily texted me, “I’m
here!” I stepped out of the van to greet her.
She (and her green elephant pillow) gave
me a big hug. We were so very glad to see
each other. As we drove back to Lexington,
chatting happily about our vacations, I asked
her if she remembered what she had been
thinking that first time we had made the trip
from Logan to her new home at the LCA
dorm. “I wondered if you could understand
me,” she said, “and if I should talk more.”
I told her that I was wondering if she could
understand me and if I should talk less!
Neither of us had really known what to do but
that never stopped us from trying anyway.
We hug, or, actually, I hugged her—with a
little too much gusto I quickly realize—and I
am reminded of a hen covering her chicks. I
think of God covering both of us in ways we
do not even know.
It’s now a new semester. More students
joined us at the dormitory and LCA’s
A month later, she is sitting with have
Boarding Program is growing successfully.
two of her dorm sisters on my bright green
It’s very motivating to see these international
couch. I heard them playing ping-pong in the
students develop and learn. For me, though,
recreation room next to my apartment as I put
what inspires me most in my work is the dear
away groceries. I heard their laughter. And
memory of that first day back in September
though it is my night off, and though I have
when the crowds emptied around this brave girl,
changed from my “Mrs. Caley clothes” into
Emily, and we saw each other for the first time
sweats, I go out to them and invite them in.
across the expanse of baggage claim. That day
I make us all cups of tea and there is an
we claimed not just her big suitcases but our life
easiness about us in the ways we are different. together at the LCA Residential Program. And
We talk about boys, and history papers, and
we’ve been claiming it ever since.
the new bikes we’ve just bought. They talk
about dancing and music and things all girls
talk about with laughter.
And then, I try to figure out how we will manage
her suitcases. Wow, they are heavy. We haul
her belongings—books, clothes, photographs of
home—and retrace the maze back to my car. It
takes both of us (and we could have used a third)
to lug and push her stuff in. She wants to do it
herself, seems embarrassed to ask for help. But I
insist and we lift the load together.
As the evening comes to a close, I wash up the
dishes and put away the rest of my groceries.
They sit together on the couch, and I turn from
my chores to watch them as they lean in together
and laugh, talking in Chinese, and English, and
Chinese again. It is a language foreign to me but
then again, I am pretty sure what they are saying
is also universal. I have learned only a few words
I put down my sign on a bank of plastic chairs
and walk toward her filled with something
that feels like joy.
“You are Emily!” I say, smiling. “I am Kate! I am
so glad you are here! Welcome to America!”
29909.indd 7
The Academy Lantern
3/6/12 2:28 PM
The LCA Boarding
Program
As a landmark in American history, the Town of Lexington, MA,
has always attracted international visitors. Adding to the diversity
of temporary tourists is a group of high school students who are
coming to stay. These students are arriving to Lexington Christian
Academy because they want a top-quality college preparatory Christian
education close to our nation’s finest colleges and universities.
Across the United States, international students are among the fastest
growing preparatory school population. Director of Admission Brook
Berry cites research from the Department of Homeland Security
indicating that the number of Chinese students attending private
U.S. high schools has increased 100-fold in just five years, from 65 in
2005–06 to 6,725 in 2010–11. Together with South Korea and India,
China accounts for almost half of all international students in America.
Lexington Christian Academy has enrolled students from almost every
corner of the globe, including China, Korea, Germany, Mongolia,
Nigeria, Uganda, Poland, Spain, Brazil, Haiti, Kenya, Hong Kong,
and Taiwan. In the past, however, every international student enrolled
at LCA faced one major hitch: room and board were not provided.
Imagine how difficult it would be as a parent to locate a home for your
child from thousands of miles away. Add a different language, a new
culture, and the fear of handing a teenager over to strangers, and it is
no wonder many parents preferred to send their students to schools
with in-house boarding programs. LCA could do nothing but watch
from the sidelines. Until now.
Lexington Christian Academy is pleased to announce the LCA
Boarding Program, a resident life program to match LCA’s distinctive
education. Adopted as part of the Academy’s long-range Strategic
Plan, this new Boarding initiative grew out of a collective
desire to share the strengths and advantages of LCA with
a more geographically diverse set of students.
“The Boarding program represents a huge leap
forward,” says Head of School Mark Davis.
“Not only does it enable us to open our doors
to welcome God’s people from all over the
world, it provides the opportunity for us to
grow in a new direction. It puts LCA on the
map—the map of the world.”
LCA’s Boarding Program came about through an exclusive arrangement
with Lexington Preparatory School (LPS), co-founded by Sonny Kim,
which is within easy walking distance of LCA’s main campus. Each LCAenrolled student enjoys an elegantly furnished private bedroom with its
own adjacent bathroom. Meals are provided, as are laundry and cleaning
services. Aside from offering three floors of dormitory space, the facility
also boasts an exercise room, a library, a computer room, and a recreation
room with a ping pong table and karaoke machine. Students also have use
of a grand piano and a small concert stage.
Husband-and-wife team Mr. Sonny Kim and Mrs. Emily Kim work
together to manage the buildings, the sprawling nine-acre grounds,
and the school’s test preparation and Academic English Language
courses. The open spaces available during LPS’s non-program
calendar year coincide perfectly with LCA’s school schedule.
“Cindy Torjesen, LCA’s former Director of Admission, had a great
respect for Sonny and Emily, as we all do, and understood the
potential of LPS,” says Mark Davis. “It has allowed us to provide the
benefits of a boarding school without incurring the costs of building a
new facility. We had students. LPS had this amazing space—walking
distance from our main campus,” Mark says. The LCA Boarding
Program was born.
As the end of the first semester of the Boarding Program’s inaugural
year, students are thriving, no small thanks to the nurturing resident
life environment created by Kate Caley, Director of College Advising
and Director of Residential Life, and Ryan Patrie, Admissions
Associate and Resident Assistant.
The 2011–2012 enrollment projections for the Boarding Program
have been met—and more students were enrolled midyear.
Next year, LCA hopes to double the number of
students in its Boarding Program. “This is really the
beginning of a new phase for LCA,” says Brook
Berry. “More than a Mission fulfillment, a
smart financial model, or a global educational
initiative, the LCA Boarding Program is a new
opportunity to make a difference in the lives
of young people from all over the world. It is a
testament to the overwhelming grace of God.”
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 8
3/6/12 2:28 PM
The LCA Boarding
Program
As the sun rose over Lexington Common in the wee hours of April 19, 1775, a new nation was dawning with the new
day. At that moment, about 800 British muskets were gleaming as they marched up what is today called Massachusetts
Avenue (“Mass. Ave.”), into Lexington Centre. When they reached the Common, the King’s troops discovered just over
80 members of Lexington’s militia company drawn up in resistance. The skirmish was over in minutes, claiming the lives
of eight local colonists and sparking the war that established the United States of America.
Our town seal bears the words “What a Glorious Morning for America.” Samuel Adams, one of Massachusetts’ foremost
politicians, supposedly uttered those words from a hill overlooking the Common as he listened to the first shots of the
Revolutionary War. Lexington is regarded as the “birthplace of the nation.”
To be sure, this town has many draws: a first-class library, active community organizations, and musical groups that
amaze (such as the Lexington Symphony). But one of this town’s greatest attributes has always been the preservation of its
history for future generations—including the generation currently attending Lexington Christian Academy.
Additional historic attractions: Three houses that played a vital role in the events of April 19, 1775, are open today as
museums. One of these, the Hancock-Clarke Parsonage, was home to Rev Jonas Clarke—our town’s only minister in
1775. I have worked at the Parsonage as a tour guide for three summers and, after reading a good deal about the Rev.
Clarke, I still wanted to know more. I was then fortunate enough to read several of his unpublished sermons and can now
hear a bit of his booming voice in my ears.
Every April, Lexington Christian Academy students have the day off in honor of Patriots’ Day. Some of our students
always choose to attend the early-morning Reenactment of the battle on Lexington Common, mindful of our
community’s importance in the broader picture of America. Seeing that action at dawn, smelling the gunpowder,
startling at the loud shots, we can appreciate the term “living history.” Besides reading about this crucial moment in our
national history from the pages of a textbook, students at Lexington Christian Academy also have the opportunity to go
around the corner and witness a complete re-creation for themselves. Likewise, with Boston, Cambridge, Concord, and
other important historic locations within easy distance, there is much more to be learned in person. . . .
Students wishing to get a terrific college preparatory Christian education would do well to look no further than the
birthplace of our nation.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 9
3/7/12 2:56 PM
Scene Around
Campus
Spiritual Emphasis
Week 2012
“How do we speak to the deepest longings of this
young generation?” The Rev. Dr. Gregg Meserole,
keynote speaker for LCA’s Spiritual Emphasis
Week in early February, asked this question of
students and their teachers and parents.
As LCA’s former Chaplain and Director of Student
Life, Gregg has a passion for the well-being of
Middle and Upper School students. He challenged
his listeners to be moved by God’s transcendent
truth, to be known by a loving community, and to
be real and walk authentically in the way of Jesus.
Now serving as Senior Pastor of Christ’s Reformed
Church in Hagerstown, MD, Gregg compellingly
shared and showed why our classrooms are “sacred
sanctuaries. The life of the mind is fed by the life
of the heart.”
New 21st Century Opportunities at LCA
The 21st century offers its share of challenges—but also new opportunities for us
to redefine education. “What happens in school is only one piece of the puzzle,”
explains Dr. Kim Winsor, Director of Studies and Director of Middle School.
“What happens outside of the classroom has been augmented by online classes,
Skype, travel, and even collaborations with students overseas to work on solutions to
a common problem. As we strive to take advantage of these opportunities we want to
use them to position our students for success in college and career.”
To this end, LCA is introducing concentrations to enhance the Academy’s excellent
liberal arts program. LCA’s Global Studies Concentration begins early this spring for
Upper School students, and Math/Science/Technology and Arts Concentrations will
be added later this year.
Benefits of a Global Studies Concentration
• Helps students stand out in the college admission process
• Provides experiences that students can use for college essays
• Allows students to take advantage of learning opportunities in the Boston area
• Offers flexible options for learning languages
• Encourages students to follow their passions
• Extends opportunities for students to study abroad
• Enables students to study a topic of interest in depth
Lexington Christian Academy’s graduation requirements are not changing—our
students will still take courses in all subject areas. Concentrations will further enrich
the traditional liberal arts curriculum by exploring an area of interest in greater
depth. Concentrations begin in the 9th grade, and the Global Studies Concentration
kicks off this March during Interim with the “Introduction to Global Studies” class.
“We have received extremely positive feedback from our parents and students about
this innovative opportunity,” Kim Winsor shares, “and we are excited to begin
offering this to our students this spring.”
LCA Students Selected for
All-State Music Festival
Andy Kim ’14 (percussion), Yujin Pyun ’13 (flute), and Sophie Sparrow ’13 (trombone)
were selected to participate in the 2012 Massachusetts All-State Music Festival.
According to Instrumental Music Director Ben Hawkins, students selected to participate
in this prestigious event had to undergo a rigorous audition process. “It’s one of the
highest honors individual high school musicians can receive during their high school
careers,” he states. The Festival took place at the Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center
March 1–3. The final concert was Saturday, March 3, at Symphony Hall.
LCA’s Spiritual Emphasis Week is made possible
through gifts to The Kenneth A. McCowan
Christian Emphasis Endowment Fund.
Congratulations also to the following
Lexington Christian Academy students
who were selected to participate
in the Northeast Senior District
Music Festival—violinist Karl Zimmer
’13; trombonist Sophie Sparrow ’13;
percussionist Andy Kim ’14; vocalists
Ana Bulger ’15, Ezra Warf ’13, and
Julia Conceison ’14; violinist September
Rose ’14; and flutist Yujin Pyun ’13—
and in the Northeast Junior District
Music Festival— vocalists Alex Johnson
’15, Emma Bergstrom ’16, and Jason
Calandra ’17.
Andy Kim ’14, Yujin Pyun ’13, and Sophie Sparrow ’13.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 10
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Scene Around
Campus
For the second year in a row, Lexington
Christian Academy’s Team ZeroBotX qualified
to have their code flown on the International
Space Station. On January 23, 2012, LCA
Team ZeroBotX—MIT/NASA Zero Robotics
Defending Champions—competed in the
Zero Robotics Championship held at The
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
After winning the first Round Robin tournament, LCA Team ZeroBotX advanced to the
USA Final Round Robin. In an extremely close
match, LCA Team ZeroBotX won Third Place
with a score of 30—just three points behind
the First Place winners.
LCA Mentor Jim Feenstra is impressed by Team
ZeroBotX’s strategic creativity and willingness to
work many hours to achieve such success. “Our
students are great at ‘thinking outside the box’ to
find innovative solutions,” he says. “And this year,
since there were many stages to the competition,
the deadline schedule was especially rigorous
and the ‘alliance’ component of collaborating
with two other schools added yet another level of
complexity. But our students handled this well,
and showed great agility in using skills needed to
excel in the 21st century. I’m very proud of them!”
LCA Team ZeroBotX members include: Daniel
Ananth ’13, Ben Bianchi ’13, Matt Biron ’12,
Paul Burrowes ’13, Michael Burrowes ’16,
Yeon Jae Cho ’12, Tarana Chowdhury ’13,
Harris Desrosier ’15, George Iliopoulos ’13,
Jun Bong Jang ’16, Andy Kim ’14, Louis Lee
’16, Ji Yoon Lee ’15, Hailey Park ’13, Sunny
Park ’13, Travis Robinson ’13, Zach Surabian
’13, and Edward Wu ’13.
LCA Team ZeroBotX mentors include local
community professionals Buzz Burrowes, Bruce
Mayer, Kirk Nahabedian, Tony Zhang, as well as
LCA teachers Carol Caravana and Jim Feenstra.
Lexington Christian Academy’s alliance partners
were Falmouth High School (ME) and Mount
Saint Joseph High School (MD).
According to Head of School Mark Davis,
“I am very proud of Mr. Jim Feenstra, our
volunteer mentors, and our Team ZeroBotX
for following up on last year’s MIT/NASA
national robotics victory by advancing to the
Finals in this year’s international competition
and taking third place. All of us at LCA
were rooting for them and their alliance as
our students so diligently and successfully
represented LCA to the world.”
(L–R) Yeon Jae Cho ’12, Tarana Chowdhury ’12, and
Travis Robinson ’13 review strategy.
(L–R) Matt Biron ’12 and Daniel Ananth ’13 discuss code.
LCA Team ZeroBotX mentor Jim Feenstra with teacher and
mentor Carol Caravana surrounded by team members.
National
Merit 2012
Head of School Mark
Davis is proud to
announce that the
National Merit Board
has recognized four LCA Head of School Mark Davis
seniors for their academic with National Merit Finalist
Gretchen Durning ’12.
achievements. “In the
grand tradition of National Merit honorees at
Lexington Christian Academy, it is my pleasure
to congratulate Gretchen Durning ’12 as a
National Merit Finalist, and Victoria Chin,
John Rosa, and Carina Zhang as National
Merit Commended Students,” Mark says. “We
are all very proud of these outstanding scholars.”
Gretchen Durning’s sister, Rachel ’10, was
also a National Merit Finalist. “She’s the main
reason I decided to go to LCA in the first
place,” says Gretchen, who enrolled at LCA
when she was in the 6th grade. “I have been
able to experience many different classes and
extracurricular activities at LCA,” she says with
appreciation. “And, I met most of my closest
friends at LCA as well. I can’t imagine going to
school without them.”
29909.indd 11
The Academy Lantern
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Scene Around
Campus
LCA Students
Win Boston Globe
Art Awards
Nine LCA students entered the 2012
Boston Globe Art Awards Competition
this year, and all nine received awards
in this statewide event open to public
and private schools. The Gold and
Silver award-winning art will be
displayed in Boston.
“We are very proud of our art students,”
praises art teacher Chip VanderBrug.
“These students worked hard throughout the year and these awards are
one confirmation. It’s a pleasure and
privilege to teach and learn with such a
wonderful group of students.”
Congratulations to LCA’s
Boston Globe Art Award Winners:
Gold Key
Kevin Lee ’15
Painting/Self Portrait
Asa Warf ’13
Photography/Reflection
Hannah (Hee Soo) Jeong ’14
Still Life/Tube of Paint (Hannah’s still
life painting of a tube of oil paint was
created with her private art tutor.)
Silver Key
Cecelia Buckley ’12
Drawing/Self Portrait
Marcus Madaus ’14
Photography/Dog
Honorable Mentions
Kate Cebry ’13
Christine Kim ’13
Jenny Krystyniak ’13
Corrie VanderBrug ’13
Photography/Shoes
Asa Warf ’13
Photography/Puddle Reflection
Students Love to Help Our World
“I’m amazed at how a bunch of students from Lexington, MA, can touch the lives of those in third
world countries,” says Kasey Lam ’13, one of the leaders of LCA’s service group Helping Our
World (HOW). “We’re all so focused and determined to help.”
According to HOW Advisor and Spanish Teacher Karen Bengtson, LCA students have exceeded their
service goals this year. For example, Justin McDonald ’12 and Erik Wilson ’12 mobilized the student
body to bring in, and fill, 315 shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child.
So far, the year has seen the return of Andrew May
’01, who shared in Chapel how he and his wife, Anne
(Haig ’01) May, have a heart for prison ministry
in South Africa. Wonah Oh ’13 is involved with
outreach in Lynn, MA, where she and several other
LCA students tutor Cambodian students one night a
week. Other HOW campus initiatives include raising
funds and awareness to supply wells or water pumps
to the world’s most needy places and partnering with
Starlight Ministries to help the homeless in Boston.
“It’s a blessing to see such interest from our students
in serving and loving others,” Karen Bengtson shares.
Interim March 19–23
In keeping with a rigorous academic curriculum, LCA offers a strategic, week-long Interim program
each spring, during which regular classes are suspended and students choose one full-day or two halfday courses. The Upper School courses feature five tracks: Biblical/Leadership; Scholarship; Social
Issues; Cultural/Vocational Issues; and Life Skills. Middle School courses provide Discovery classes in
the morning and Activity-oriented classes in the afternoon. According to Interim Director Mary Bulger,
“Interim’s longer classes and smaller class sizes allow for extended, relaxed interaction between students
and teachers, concentration on one topic, and exploration at depths not allowed in the press of year-long
college prep courses. Interim also allows time for off-campus and hands-on learning, a time where LCA
faculty and guest teachers broaden students’ exposure to real-world experience.”
Upper School Interim Courses
Beauty and Truth
Boston Edibles
Business Industry
Career and College Match
Exploring Fashion Design and
Construction
Faith, Forgiveness, and
Reflection
Introduction to Global Studies
It’s in the Genes: From DNA
to Cells to Organism
Korean Studies
Mock Trial Court
Photoshop/Graphic Design
Picture This!
Real Estate
Sudden Fiction
Toying with Teaching
Who Wants to Be a
Millionaire?
Amateur Radio Building and
Licensing
Competitive Volleyball
Cover Band
Exit, Stage Left: Writing for
the Stage
Fencing
Film and Theology
Heating Up the Dance Floor
Iterations, Chaos, and Fractals
It’s Not Only in Your Genes:
Part Two
Knitting—a Cottage Industry
in a High-Tech Age
Martial Arts
Missions: The Good, the Bad,
and the Ugly
Pen Turning
Photography
Power Yoga
Rock Climbing
Middle School Interim Courses
(L–R): Kevin Lee, Marcus Madaus, Corrie VanderBrug,
Asa Warf, Jenny Krystyniak, Kate Cebry, Christine
Kim, and Cecelia Buckley.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 12
Babysitting
Interim Web Newsletter
Farms and Food
Life Is a Zoo!
Knitting for (K)Novices
Coastal Crafts
Tennis Anyone?
You Knead This Course
3/7/12 2:56 PM
Scene Around
Campus
Faculty Passions and
Pursuits
Chaplain and Bible Instructor Jeremy Alexander was
awarded the Sam and June Schultz Grant to attend the
Calvin Symposium on Worship entitled, “The Psalms:
When Life Is Prayer.” Through this grant, Jeremy and
three student leaders (Ashlee Duttweiler ’12, Kevin Klein
’12, and Allana Matthews ’12) traveled to Calvin College
to attend the symposium. One of the highlights of the
trip was plenary speaker N.T. Wright—the students
were thrilled to hear the author of their Simply Christian
textbook speak in person.
As part of his coursework at Middlebury College’s Bread
Loaf School, English Teacher James Talkington spent a
month last summer studying on their campus in Ripton,
VT. James was able to participate in this exceptional program
through the support of the Lawrence-Swallow Grant, which
funded his travel expenses, and through the Faculty Enrichment Fund, which covered some tuition fees.
The program has inspired James’ teaching as well as his passion for literature and language.
Librarian Leslie Schoenherr was delighted to attend the Oxbridge Teacher Seminar in Oxford,
England, last July. Her program focused on “Literature and the Fantastic,” and included
morning seminars, afternoon plenary sessions, field trips, and getting to know 30 other
participants from the U.S. and around the world. Leslie appreciates the VanderBrug Outside the
Box Grant she received that provided tuition for this stellar program.
Join Us in Welcoming Our
New Faculty and Staff
Jeanne Ahern
B.A., P ’16, ’18
Admissions Assistant
Brook Berry
M.A., P ’13
Director of Admission
Jeannine Cavallaro
B.S., Athletic Director,
Coach
Nate Macchia ’03, B.A.,
Technology Assistant,
Auxiliary Programs
Office Manager
Amy Reinthaler, M.F.A. Penelope Sparrow, M.A.
Art and Spanish Teacher P ’13, Math Teacher
Noah Thomas, M.A.
Bible Teacher
D
Bryan Thomason, M.A.
Bible Teacher
Ne w’ Blogs
rs
irecto
kson
Mr. Jac r.
&
r
o
s
M
n
Dr. Wi f Upper School r of
ro
ecto
Directo
and Dir
n
o
s
k
iddle
c
a
David J d Director of M
e
n
r
a
a
Studies . Kim Winsor
out
r
k
D
wee ab
r
e
h
School
t
o
y
g ever
A.
bloggin
g at LC
in
n
r
a
le
life and lca.edu.
at
Find it
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 13
3/7/12 2:11 PM
Scene Around
Campus
Upper School Fall Sport Recap—2011
Throughout much of the fall, the teams had to battle
not only their opponents but also some challenging
weather. In spite of wet conditions and even a little
snow in October, the Lions proved their mettle and
came away from the season with many successes,
a deepened pride in LCA Athletics, and lasting
memories with great friends.
Some Achievements of Note:
Boys Varsity Soccer was selected as the No. 6 seed in
the 2011 New England Preparatory School Athletic
Council Class D Tournament. They advanced to
the semifinals after a 6-0 win over The MacDuffie
School and eventually bowed out after a 1-0 loss
to Class D runner-up Forman. The team finished
the regular season with a 6-7-2 record, and at 4-0-1
against Class D opponents. Nathan Grimley ’12 and
Peter Desrosier ’12 were selected to the NEPSAC
Senior All-Star Game, and Kevin Taylor ’13 earned
a spot on the NEPSAC Junior All-Star Team.
Girls Varsity Soccer ended their regular season
campaign with a 10-6-1 record and an 8-4-1
record, which was enough for a 4th place finish
in the EIL and therefore an A pool berth for the
EIL Tournament. En route to the title game,
LCA defeated Winsor, the regular-season League
champion. The loss was the third this season at
the hands of the LCA Lady Lions, and the only
blemishes on Winsor’s league record.
Girls Varsity Field Hockey (L–R): Jaclyn Feenstra ’13, Madeline Bahou ’13, Emily Stutzman ’15, Christina Dibrova ’15, Ana Bulger ’15,
Kelsey Tierney ’15, Marirose Brown ’13, and Grace Wang ’15.
Olivia Chen ’15.
The Varsity Golf team ended their season at 7-7,
and a 5th place finish in the EIL. Boys and Girls
Cross Country saw many runners finish with career
best times and head to Maine to compete in the
NEPSTA Championships. Varsity Field Hockey
battled in tough league play and finished their season
with a 2-0 win over Beaver Country Day School.
Among the most successful teams at LCA this fall
were the Boys and Girls Soccer squads, who scored
a combined 77 goals in a total of 19 games. The
Girls ended their season with a 7-2 record and
averaged 4.9 goals per game while only allowing
1.5 per contest. The Boys team only suffered one
loss this season and finished at 7-1-2 overall
while boasting an impressively low one-goal againstaverage, and four shut-outs for the season.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 14
Erik Wilson ’12.
Congratulations to the following student-athletes who were
recognized by the EIL for their outstanding fall seasons:
Middle School Teams Shine in Fall 2011
The LCA Middle School teams are coming off a
successful fall campaign that saw record breaking
performances, plenty of goals scored, and a number
of athletes trying a new sport for the very first
time. At Lexington Christian Academy, where
athletics are integrated into the normal school-day
schedule, Middle School students are encouraged to
participate and learn qualities such as sportsmanship,
commitment, and discipline through athletics. It’s
easy to see how the experience is positive for each
student-athlete. From the beginner to the more
advanced, the beauty of sports at LCA is seeing
players come together and help one another to
improve and enjoy their time playing together.
Kesha Porter ’15.
Name
Class Sport
Recognition
Matt Vardaro
Nathan Grimley
Kevin Taylor
Emily Schuh
Kallan Roys
Annalise Kingston
2013
2012
2013
2012
2013
2013
1st Team All-League
1st Team All-League
1st Team All-League
1st Team All-League
1st Team All-League
1st Team All-League
Golf
Boys Soccer
Boys Soccer
Girls Soccer
Girls Soccer
Girls Soccer
Sam Doran ’12.
Golf Team (L–R): Travis Robinson ’13, Matt Vardaro ’13, John Citrano ’13, Brian Callahan ’12, Anthony Cusanello ’13, Thomas Segreve ’15,
Matt Kiernan ’13, and Peter Cusanello ’15.
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Scene Around
Campus
The Girls Soccer team demonstrated an unselfish
style of play with scoring coming from nine different
players, four with over 6 goals in just nine games on
the season. Additionally, seven players had multiple
assists and goal keepers Kinsey Ehmann ’18 and
Grace Moore ’16 only gave up 14 goals and posted
three shut-outs. Leading scorers for the season were
Katie Braga ’16 (17 points), Fikemi Faleye ’17 (15
points), and Olivia Notini ’17 (12 points).
Leading the Boys Soccer team were Tim Cowen ’17
and Dan Munch ’17, who had 12 and 10 goals
respectively. In net for the Lions were Walter
Sharon ’17 and Jason Calandra ’17 who, along
with the help of their defense, only allowed one
goal per game by their opponents. With only three
8th graders on the starting squad, expectations are
high for future success.
Max Jong ’13 pins his opponent.
In addition to the outstanding soccer season for
the Lions, the Cross Country team put their own
record-breaking performances on display. Prior to
the 2011 season, the Middle School Cross Country
course record was held by Christian Schmidt ’13
with a time of 13:21 for the two mile course. By the
end of the season, that record was broken, not once,
but twice by Connor Meaney ’16, who cemented the
course record with a time of 13:05.
A Note from New Athletic Director
Jeannine Cavallaro:
Nathan Grimley ’12.
Christian Schmidt ’13 out-jumps opponent.
Joey DeFrancesco ’12.
Front Row: Sarah Pitan ’14, Vicky Nguyen ’13, Sophie Damas ’12, Emily Schuh ’12, Sarah
Woods ’13, Kallan Roys ’13. Back Row: Winnie Victor ’14, Hannah Bolton ’14, Jenna
Whitenberg ’13, Katherine Grieb ’14, Elizabeth Gallagher ’13, Emma O’Brien ’14.
Winter Sport Highlights
Wrestlers Rack Up the Awards!
EIL MVP—David Newell ’13
Three EIL Individual Champions—David Newell ’13,
Harry Lee ’12, Eric Donovan ’13
NEPSAC Tournament Qualifiers—David Newell ’13,
Harry Lee ’12, Eric Donovan ’13, Ben Bianchi ’13
Girls Basketball Extends Season:
2nd Place in EIL regular season and EIL Tournament Runner-up
Qualified for NEPSAC—fourth seed in Class D
EIL All-League—Vicky Nguyen ’13, Kallan Roys ’13
NEPSAC All-Star—Vicky Nguyen ’13
29909.indd 15
I have been extremely impressed with Lexington
Christian Academy. The students and faculty are
top-notch, and the culture here is inviting, friendly,
and personal, yet dedicated to giving students
a phenomenal education. It has been a perfect
fit for me because LCA is a place where I am
seeing students flourish academically, athletically,
artistically, and spiritually. It is a blessing for me to
be a part of the bigger picture and contribute to the
mission of LCA—glorifying Christ and pursuing
excellence in all areas.
My experience has led me to many fields and courts
over the years, but what I am excited about here at
LCA is the potential of the Athletic programs. I see
athletes and coaches who are passionate about their
sport and who have a desire to excel as a way to glorify God. I look forward to leading LCA Athletics, to
helping our teams to rise to new heights, and to sharing those experiences with LCA families, alumni,
and friends of the Academy.
Jeannine Cavallaro has worked as both coach and
athletic administrator at the collegiate level, and has
experience directing athletic camps for students at
middle school and high school levels. Jeannine previously
served as the head women’s basketball coach at Gordon
College, as well as the senior woman administrator and
interim athletic director. She holds degrees from Boston
University and Gordon College. Jeannine also has
significant experience at an international level, serving
as athletic clinician, coach, and player in Chile, Brazil,
Guatemala, Mexico, El Salvador, and Egypt.
The Academy Lantern
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Scene Around
Campus
Director’s Notes
November 17–19, 2011
LCA Middle School Theatre Presents
The Outsiders
This past fall we decided try something different—a drama.
The Outsiders is a serious story full of broken families, violence, even death. It’s Middle School
Theatre without the safety net of silliness and novelty. Throughout the rehearsal process, I had moments of doubt about having chosen this piece. Was it too intense and mature for students at this
developmental stage? Was it realistic to expect these students to feel comfortable playing these characters? I tried to imagine myself at their age, and how I might have responded to such a challenge.
Then I remembered a significant difference between my Middle School experience and that of
these students. My youth culture bore a much greater resemblance to the tense, dangerous world
of The Outsiders than LCA does. Bullying was constant, fights broke out in the hallways, and the
fear of ridicule and alienation often kept students’ personalities cloaked in a thick layer of cool
detachment. Lexington Christian Academy is different; while Middle School is rarely a breeze
for anyone, students here don’t need to wear nearly as much of the psychological armor required
to survive the rigid social caste system of a typical Middle School environment. As a result, our
students can take greater creative risks in front of each other and their community. They feel safe
enough to do something dangerous, like get up on a stage and tell a story full of raw emotion
and vulnerable moments. Their courage in performing The Outsiders was an inspiration to me
and a gift to their community.
—Andy Macdonald, Theatre Director and Arts Division Head
Annual Christmas Concert
December 15, 2011
Cary Memorial Hall, Lexington
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 16
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Scene Around
Campus
Director’s Notes
February 2–4, 2012
LCA Upper School Theatre Presents
The Importance of Being Earnest
“I think that God in creating Man somewhat overestimated his ability.”—Oscar Wilde
At one point in The Importance of Being Earnest, Algernon asks Jack whether they might go to
the theatre that evening, to which Jack replies “Oh no! I loathe listening.” While the multisensory aspect of theatre has always been vital, Oscar Wilde wrote for an audience that thought of
theatre-going primarily as a listening activity. This had been the case for centuries, which is why
Shakespeare’s audiences didn’t find it unnatural for their view of the play’s action to be partially
obstructed by two downstage support pillars. It was only with the emergence of the more visually
oriented medium of film that we began to think in terms of going to see rather than hear a play.
In this day and age, the daily barrage of sound bytes and rapid-fire imagery that we experience onscreen can leave our listening “muscles” somewhat under used. But this is what makes theatre such a
uniquely pleasing experience, especially when listening to a play as masterfully and musically written
as The Importance of Being Earnest. The intellectual and emotional engagement required by listening
(also central to the work of the actors onstage) yields a pleasure that is made doubly fun by its rarity
in our daily lives.
And when we dare to listen with our hearts as well as our brains, we run the risk of hearing our
own voices in these outrageous characters. Rather than laugh at them, we find ourselves laughing
with them because we know that in their shameless arrogance, vanity, and self-righteousness, Oscar
Wilde is presenting us with a parody of fundamental human flaws that we all share. Our hope is
that our audience enjoyed a light laugh at these characters, themselves, and each other, and perhaps
left our theatre a little more earnestly for having done so.
—Andy Macdonald, Theatre Director and Arts Division Head
Coming Soon in LCA Theatre
Fiddler on the Roof
On May 3–5, 2012, LCA students in grades 7–12 will present Fiddler on the Roof—the story of Tevye, father of five
daughters in the Jewish village of Anatevka. Deeply held traditions become both blessing and curse as Tevye and his
community struggle against changing times and political oppression. Come experience the power of great stories
creatively told by our passionate student-performers!
To reserve your tickets, email [email protected] or call 781.862.7850 x336 with your name, email address, date, and
time for each performance you would like to attend, and the number of adult and/or student tickets you would like
to reserve per performance. Reserved tickets are $10 for adults and free for students. Tickets sold at the door will be
$15 for adults and $5 for students. Visit lca.edu/theatre for more information!
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 17
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Homecoming
Alumni and Friends
Return Home
(L–R) Wincy Yu ’14 and Vivian Wen ’14.
Jackie Kiernan ’13.
Distinguished Alumni Awards
Homecoming & Reunion Weekend
September 30 & October 1, 2011
Homecoming is a time for old friends to reconnect, for alumni to visit
with their favorite teachers, and all of us to cheer on the LCA Lions.
It’s also a time to celebrate our shared history. At the Homecoming
Banquet on Saturday evening, each of our Distinguished Alumni
Awardees and Athletics Hall of Fame Inductees spoke about the
ways CHS/LCA has influenced their lives. With inductees from the
Class of 1956 to awardees from the Class of 1993, there was a
common thread of thankfulness for the guidance and opportunities
they received while students at CHS/LCA.
As we reflect on Homecoming and Reunion weekend 2011, we are
continually reminded of the strength of the LCA community. Our
alumni came from as far as California, Washington, and Mississippi
to celebrate the history, mission, and vision of LCA. And, celebrate
we did! Despite the rainy weather, our alumni came out to cheer
on the Lions at their games, help the 8th graders surpass their
fundraising goal with their international auction, and encourage us
all in our work here at LCA.
8th grade parents hosted
a successful fundraiser to
support the world of LCA:
(L–R) Jennifer Lockwood,
Jim Bowdring, Margaret
Carlson, Jeanne Ahern,
and Paul McGonagle.
Colonel Jeffrey Neal Plotner ’79
Service to Profession
Colonel Jeffrey Plotner’s strength as a leader earned
him top positions from the beginning of his career.
He served as Platoon Leader at Fort Bragg, Military
Intelligence Detachment Commander in Germany,
Human Intelligence Program Manager at the
Pentagon, and Chief of the Counterintelligence and Human Intelligence
Division in Germany, to name just a few key roles. For Col. Plotner’s
dedicated service to his country, he has received over 30 military awards,
including the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star Medal.
On May 31, 2010, after 27 years of service to our nation, Col. Plotner
retired from the U.S. Army. He and his wife, Elizabeth, reside in
Stuttgart, Germany. They have three children: Sean, Chelsea, and Ian.
Joshua D. Bennett ’93
Service to Alma Mater
Joshua (Josh) Bennett graduated from the Tuck
School of Business at Dartmouth as an Edward
Tuck Scholar with Distinction. He is a Principal
of Investment Research at M.A. Weatherbie &
Company in Boston.
Josh joined the LCA Board of Trustees in 2001, and served as Treasurer
and Chair of the Finance Committee, as a representative of the Finance
Committee in strategic planning efforts, and as a member of the Investment
Committee. Josh’s thoughtful, compassionate, and economically conservative approach to school finances has been a boon to his alma mater.
Josh and his wife, Sarah ’94, have two children, Anne (11) and Brian (8).
Ronald A. Sanderson ’60
Service to Community
Ronald (Ron) Sanderson and his wife, Karen, served
for many years as youth leaders at Arlington Heights
Baptist Church in MA. Several students from this
youth group remain some of the Sandersons’ closest
friends. Ron also served as church treasurer for 23
years and on the board of deacons.
Since 2005, Ron has served as a short-term missionary at Joni and
Friends Family Retreats. He continues to be involved in a variety of
ministries and programs, including overseeing the disability ministry at
Countryside Bible Chapel in Lexington, leading worship, and serving on
the board of elders. Ron also makes time to serve the community on the
baseball diamond, and recently completed his 35th year of coaching.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 18
For full profiles of these Distinguished Alumni and Athletics Hall of Fame
Inductees, please visit lca.edu/alumni. DVD copies of the Banquet are
available by emailing [email protected].
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Homecoming
(L–R) Marisa Edin-Nelson ’13 and (L–R) Jerry Gabrielse, P ’02, ’99, ’96; Chemistry Teacher Jake
Vicky Nguyen ’13.
Hoffman ’64, P ’08, ’11; Former Director of Development Cathy
VanderBrug, P ’86, ’92, ’97.
(L–R): Adam Bahou ’16, Ross Wentworth ’15, Charlie Carlson ’16, Lynne Snook ’x16,
and Meaghan Hayes ’16.
Athletics Hall of Fame New Members
David Leveille ’56
Boys Varsity Basketball
While a student at Christian High School, David Leveille exemplified an
outstanding Christian testimony both on and off the court. A recipient of
the George Durward Memorial Award, David served as Co-Captain with his
close friend Dave Rivers and this “Dynamic Duo” led their Basketball team to
victory many times.
Following his college career (during which he played five different sports),
David earned his doctoral degree from the University of Southern California,
distinguishing himself in the California State University system, and then as
Acting Director and Deputy Director of the California Postsecondary Education Commission. He lives with his wife of 46 years, Marty, in California. They
have two children and five grandchildren.
The 1961 Boys Varsity Basketball Team
The 1961 Boys Varsity Basketball team left an indelible mark on Lexington
Christian Academy, inspiring the community with their storybook rise to
win the Bay State D Championship, their roster of All-Star players, their
record-breaking season, and their dogged determination. Bucky Yardume,
writer for the Boston Traveler, nicknamed the team the “Little Giants.”
Coach Miles Strodel, who also served as Headmaster, declared them
“his best team.” In the final championship game against Provincetown at
Brandeis University, the team got off to a shaky start, trailing 19-11 at the
end of the first quarter, but they pulled together, and in overtime defeated
Provincetown 59-56. The yearbook staff wrote, “This was truly a great season as unbeaten foes were conquered, all-time records fell, and total team
and school spirit reached unprecedented heights.”
Dave Barram ’61
Boys Varsity Basketball
“Dave ‘The Shot’ Barram” was the second CHS/LCA player to achieve over
1,000 points in three years.
While earning his graduate degree, Dave served as Naval Officer and Officer-inCharge of a coastal minesweeper in Pensacola, FL. After the Navy, Dave moved
to Silicon Valley, CA, where his leadership abilities earned him senior positions
at Apple Computer, Hewlett-Packard, and Silicon Graphics. In 1993 he was
appointed by President Clinton and confirmed by the Senate as the Deputy
Secretary and COO of the Department of Commerce. In 1996, the President
appointed him, and the Senate again confirmed him, as the Administrator
(CEO) of the U.S. General Services Administration.
Following his service, Dave returned to California to serve on a number of
boards and as chairman of a start-up company, where he also served as CEO.
Irene Campbell
Coach
Irene Campbell has been an integral member of the LCA community since 1972,
when she began as physical education teacher, science teacher, and Field Hockey
coach. Irene has since coached Girls Varsity and Junior Varsity Field Hockey; Girls
Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Middle School Basketball; Girls Lacrosse; and Girls Softball. She is the kind of coach for whom players want to give their best. In the 1986
yearbook dedication to Irene, her players wrote, “We did our best for you, and
that is all you asked. Thanks for making the Athletic program the best ever.”
Irene’s emphasis on diligence, faithfulness, and hard work produced First and
Second Place finishes in the AISGA and eight championship teams across four
sports. Her Christian testimony and her ability to inspire athletes are exemplary.
Coach Irene Campbell with Award presenter Tim Slighter.
Save the Date:
Homecoming
October 20, 2012
Athletic Director Jeannine Cavallaro and Athletics Hall of Famer Grace Strodel with the 1961 Boys Varsity Basketball
Team representatives. (L–R) Assistant Coach “Whitey” Davis, Dave Barram '61, Ward DeHaro '61, and John Beck '61.
29909.indd 19
The Academy Lantern
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Commencement
2011
Congratulations, Class of 2011
Congratulations to the 61 members of the 62nd graduating class of Lexington Christian Academy
(LCA) for their many accomplishments, including their standing as one of the Academy’s highest
achieving classes in its history.
“It is with gratitude and pride that we recognize these outstanding seniors,” says Head of School
Mark Davis, who warmly welcomed the Class of 2011 and their teachers, families, and friends.
“In addition to their scholarly achievement, they have honored God, their parents, teachers, and
peers during their tenure at LCA. I’ve seen every one of them exhibit selflessness, and their heart’s
desire is to make this world a better place.”
LCA’s graduation highlights included the Commencement Address by William Massaquoi,
Executive Director of Rebuild Africa, Inc., and parent of international student Jong Massaquoi
of Liberia. Other speeches included the Senior Address by Valedictorian Luca Politi, Princeton
University Class of 2015; and the Senior Testimony by Victoria Duttweiler, University of
Pennsylvania Class of 2015.
Dr. Kim Winsor recognized the Class’ outstanding scholarship—including two National Merit
Finalists and five National Merit Commended Students—and parents, faculty, and seniors honored
the character and values of the Class of 2011 and prayed for their futures. The memorable
Commencement program also included music from LCA Chamber Strings and Wind Ensemble
(under the direction of Ben Hawkins), and Chorale (under the direction of Mary Bulger).
“We did it!”
Gathering one more time in the Phillips Memorial Library.
Proud faculty await procession.
Celebrating the Class of 2011.
Junior Class Marshals.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 20
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Commencement
2011
Bentley University
Fitchburg State University
New York University
St. Olaf College
Boston College
Furman University
North Carolina State University
Syracuse University
Boston University
George Washington University
Northeastern University
Tufts University
Brandeis University
Georgetown University
Occidental College
University of Maine
Brown University
Gordon College
Palm Beach Atlantic University
University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Bunker Hill Community College
High Point University
Pennsylvania State University
University of Notre Dame
Calvin College
Illinois Institute of Technology
Pepperdine University
University of Pennsylvania
Carnegie-Mellon University
Ithaca College
Princeton University
University of Waterloo
Clark University
Liberty University
Quinnipiac University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute
Clemson University
Merrimack College
Regent University
Wake Forest University
Columbia University
Messiah College
Rhode Island School of Design
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Drew University
Middlebury College
Roanoke College
Wheaton College (IL)
Duke University
Middlesex Community College
Rochester Institute of Technology
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Elon University
Mount Holyoke College
Salem State University
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 21
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Class Notes &
Reunions
Are you receiving the CHS/LCA monthly alumni
eNotify? You'll hear about contests, prizes to be
won, updates from the CHS/LCA community, and
much more! Email us at [email protected] to start
receiving the CHS/LCA alumni eNotify today!
1950
Betty (Joy ’50) Fagerstrom and her husband,
Ernie, went on the “cross-country trip of a lifetime”
to celebrate their 60th anniversary. Some highlights
included meeting up with two CHS/LCA
classmates, Carol Mathisen Fitzgerald-Simpson
and Doris Strom McClaughlin, and seeing the
Badlands, Mount Rushmore, Yellowstone, and
the Grand Canyon. About her time at CHS/LCA,
Betty writes “lifelong friendships were developed at
Christian High and it’s been such a blessing to keep
in touch throughout the years.”
“It’s been such a blessing to keep
in touch throughout the years.”
—Betty (Joy ’50) Fagerstrom
1951
Bruce Strickland shares with us that his “beloved
wife, Jean, stepped into the presence of the Lord
on January 6, 2012. We had a wonderful 55 years
of marriage, and we are privileged to have a loving
family to help—two daughters, one son, three
grandsons, and one granddaughter.”
1952
Roberta (Nordstrom) Lindquist and her husband,
Ed, had a summer of celebrations, from their
fabulous 50th anniversary party, to Roberta’s 75th
birthday celebration at Mt. Vernon, to a family
vacation on Cape Cod. Roberta writes, “It was
great fun to be together. God has blessed me with
good health, for which I praise Him, through three
cancer surgeries.” Ed had preached at eight interim
churches—two of them on Martha’s Vineyard.
And, they enjoyed traveling to these churches.
Nancy (Westmoreland) Sabean has been on the
mission field in Costa Rica with her husband,
Bob, for over 45 years. Nancy shares that a typical
week includes leading a women’s Bible study,
teaching courses on breastfeeding, and teaching
courses on childbirth preparation.
Dottie Whitney will have completed almost 55 years
of ministry at Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) at
the end of this year. CEF reached almost 11 million
children last year with the Gospel. Dottie shares,
“Little did I know that after starting as a secretary in
the Boston office God would lead me to Michigan
with CEF and then to Missouri, working as Assistant
to the President. I love what I’m doing and continue
to work on a part-time basis. God is so good.”
Dave Wollman and his wife, Jan, have been
busy! They toured Hawaii last March (during the
Tsunami!), Glacier National Park in July, and
Britain in September. Dave’s tenure as Academic
Dean of the Center for Urban Theological Studies
in Philadelphia (an affiliate program of Geneva
College) will be ending this year. He is currently
scheduled to teach a course on “The Changing Roles
of the British Monarchs” for the Osher Lifelong
Learning Institute at Carnegie Mellon University.
Dave and Jan are both still active at St. Stephen’s
Anglican Church where they lead the adult
education class and GriefShare. Dave also serves on
boards for the Pittsburgh Fellows Program and the
Center for Urban Biblical Ministry in Pittsburgh.
Dave writes, “The Lord continues to bless us with
health despite my heart problems.”
“I love what I’m doing.”
—Dottie Whitney ’54
1957
Reunion Reminder: Class of 1957
Your milestone 55th Reunion is this year! If you’d
like to help coordinate a planning committee for
your class, please contact LCA representative
Cynthia Nelson at 781.862.7850 x149, or email
her at [email protected].
Paul Murphy was
featured in the Boston
Herald’s column
“Sallies’ Ringer Is
Happy to Give Back”
by Joe Fitzgerald ’62.
Paul has been ringing
bells for the Salvation
Army for 15 years. As
a soldier, Paul experienced the Salvation Army’s
hospitality at USO clubs, and later as a volunteer
in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Every
Christmas season, with top hat on head and bell
in hand, Paul rings for the Salvation Army in
Weymouth, Braintree, Cohasset, and Quincy.
1961
John Beck generously
donated his 1961 Boys
Varsity Basketball
Championship jacket
to LCA at the 2011
Homecoming Banquet.
The jacket was donated
in memory of his 1961
Varsity Basketball
teammates Richard “Leep” Harpell and Gerry
Smith.
1954
Ginny (Nelson) Curtis
received the Brian Dickinson Courage Award
at the 15th Annual
“Evening of Hope” held
by the ALS Association
Rhode Island Chapter.
The award is given to
“an individual who
shows tremendous faith and courage and serves as an
inspiration for others affected by ALS.” Ginny enjoys cooking, baking, visiting with her children and
seven grandchildren, reading, and doing needlework
and embroidery. She also serves as the Hospitality
Chairwoman of the Little Compton Garden Club.
(L–R) Bob Roney (husband of Alumna Susan Roney), Susan (Peterson) Roney, Naome Fearing, Dick Kirk, Starr (Werenko)
Watson, and Elizabeth (Fleming) Methe. Not pictured but in attendance: Dave Barram, John Beck, Ward DeHaro, Susan
Garvey, and Doug McNeilly.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 22
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Class Notes &
Reunions
Chesapeake, VA-based Andy Wiggin sends
greetings to his friends from LCA. “I only
went to LCA for 8th grade,” he says, “but those
classmates were very special people.” To reconnect
with Andrew, just send an email to him at
[email protected].
1981
(L–R) Raymond Jones, Donna Taylor Matlock, Sharon Worthing Vaino (wife of Alumnus Jaan Vaino), Jaan Vaino, David
Pearson, and Daniel Olinger. Kevin Weeks also attended, but does not appear in this photo.
Shelly Leighton Clark announces the release of
her new CD entitled HIM. The CD is a collection
of hymns arranged by Shelly with a unique
gospel/jazz/classical style. Most arrangements are
“raw a cappella” for solo voice only, offering a
fresh sound to popular hymns. From the spirited
“No, Not One” to the reflective “No One Ever
Cared for Me Like Jesus,” each song creates an
atmosphere of praise and adoration. Available
online at CD Baby, iTunes (through CD Baby),
CDDB, and Allmusic. Shelly’s website is http://
cdbaby.com/cd/shellyleightonclark.
1962
1977
Your milestone Reunion is this year! Classmate
Mary (Groh) Skaggs has begun planning the 50th
Reunion for early fall. Please contact Mary at
[email protected] for more information.
1979
1987
Pamela Cole shared with us that her dear father,
Claude Cole, went home to be with the Lord on
January 2, 2012. Classmates may remember her
parents, Claude and Forestine, as being very involved
in LCA life—attending every event and providing
transportation to basketball games and concerts.
1964
Claudia (Cole) Souther recently stopped by LCA
for a visit. She was in town for the funeral and
memorial services for her father, Claude Cole.
While at LCA, Claudia had the opportunity to
reconnect with former classmate and current LCA
chemistry teacher Jake Hoffman.
1967
After a successful career as a landscape architect,
Scott Andrew Anderson joined the Army following
9/11. He received his training at Fort Knox in
Kentucky. He was then transferred to Fort Sheldon
in Mississippi. Through hard work and his heartfelt
commitment to his country, Scott rose to the rank
of Major in the United States Army. In 2009,
Scott was promoted to Lt. Colonel at a ceremony
with his daughter and parents in attendance, held
at Fort Sheldon. Scott believes that “the education
and religious philosophy” he received while at LCA
“greatly contributed to his accomplishments.”
1982
John Roberts is retiring from Active Duty in the
United States Navy after 20 years of service to our
country. He is ranked as Fire Controlman First Class
(Surface Warfare Specialist/Master Training Specialist).
John is looking forward to retirement, and writes, “I
am sure there is plenty more in store for me.”
1972
1975
Graf Hilgenhurst testified before a Tennessee Senate
Subcommittee this past April, regarding pending
legislation on interventional pain management
in Tennessee. Dr. Hilgenhurst is President of the
Tennessee Society of Interventional Pain Physicians.
Dr. Hilgenhurst’s practice, Precision Pain Care, is
located in Smyrna, TN, outside of Nashville.
Standing from left to right: Jennifer Kinsman, Lisa (Cianciolo) Lekas, Jonathan Lee, Chris Larson, Craig Stafford, Rand
Weyler, Mark Hume, Elizabeth Hall. Kneeling from left to right: Jessica (Jennings) Schaad, Jackie VanderBrug, Patricia
(Dean) O’Connell, Dawn Larson, Rebecca Griecci-Niven, Michelle Maffucci, and Lisa (Hadzekyriakides) Lancellotta.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 23
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Class Notes &
Reunions
1988
1997
1989
Karen (Beers) Augusta and her husband live in
MA and have six children. She sends her greetings
to the Class of ’88. She would love to hear from old
friends: you can email her at [email protected].
Christine A. Kennedy
received the 2011 “Teacher
of the Year” award for
the Hosmer School in
Watertown, MA. The
accompanying photo
shows Christine receiving
this impressive honor
from a former student.
1991
Keri (Claiborne) Boyle is a nationally ranked,
All-American (top 5% in the U.S.A.) triathlete.
She qualified for both the 2011 and 2012 USA
Triathlon National Championship and had a top
finish at Ironman Arizona!
2000
Ryan Flynn and his wife, Kristen, are still happily
living in New Hampshire. Ryan is enjoying his new
job as Marketing Manager at AccuBoost, a company
that is developing a new radiation therapy technique
for breast cancer treatment. Ryan came back to his
alma mater to teach two Interim classes this past
March—Art History and Graphic Design.
2001
1992
1995
Karen (Shaw) Lepine
and Keith Lepine were
married in South Berwick, ME, on April 17,
2010. Erica (Johnson)
McConologue celebrated with them at their
wedding. The Lepines
live in Nashua, NH.
1996
James Bennett is currently serving as a U.S. Army Field
Artillery Officer (1LT) in Kuwait. He is also finishing
his third degree (M.S.) at Michigan State University.
Jennifer (Fitzgerald)
LaFountain and Philip
LaFountain welcomed
their daughter, Isabelle
Lyn LaFountain, into
the world on April 8,
2011!
Andrew May is currently living and working in South
Africa with his wife, Anne (Haig) May. As he blogs
at amayx2.blogspot.com, “After setting off to South
Africa for ‘one year’ of post-graduate study, we are now
volunteering full-time at the Andrew Murray Centre.
We are excited to share the joys and challenges of our
ministry with you.” Andrew is the Director of Prison
Ministry, overseeing a team of over 30 volunteers in 11
correctional centers; Anne is the Operations Manager,
handling everything from accounting systems to
community dinners. In a letter sent earlier this year,
Andrew wrote, “I am continually thrust into crosscultural ministry that confounds my experience and
capability. Good thing Jesus is already there.”
“After setting off to South Africa for ‘one
year’ of post-graduate study, we are now
volunteering full-time.”
—Andrew ’01 and Anne (Haig ’01) May
2002
her at [email protected]..
(L–R ): Areg Esserian and Jason Apicella.
Nicholas and Deborah
(Gabrielse) Cioffi welcomed their son, Josiah
Nicholas Cioffi, into the
world on June 23, 2011.
About their new bundle
of joy, they write “Josiah
is a champion with a full
head of hair, as healthy
and handsome as his dad, and maybe even more
so. Thank you for all of your support and prayers.”
Deborah served this fall as LCA’s Varsity Field
Hockey Coach and has been a member of LCA’s
Meadow Breeze Summer Camp staff.
Avery Griffin is happy
to announce that he and
Shelley Dexter, an aspiring opera singer, were
married in New York
City. They will reside in
New York City where
they will pursue their
personal and professional dreams as musicians and life partners. Avery
continues to thrive as a professional classical vocalist. He spent the summer performing in the Carmel
Bach Festival in California and at the Massachusetts
Museum of Contemporary Art with Room Full
of Teeth, a modern classical group that fuses vocal
forms from all over the world into new classical
music (they are also producing a CD this winter).
In addition to performing with the St. Thomas
Choir of Men and Boys several times a week,
Avery is busy with many projects and performance
groups in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and
Massachusetts. Recent performances include Adrian
Utley and Will Gregory’s new score to the silent
film Joan of Arc in Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully
Hall with the White Light Festival; with Toby
Twining in the Vital Fox Festival; original works
of Ezra Sims with the Boston-based microtonal
ensemble NotaRiotous and Ensemble2e2m in
New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall. Avery’s
work as a composer is also being recognized as the
Hartford Opera Company performs his opera, A
Game of Chess. In 2012, he will perform in Finland,
Sweden, Germany, and Austria.
Molly Joseph was thrilled to be able to participate
in the historic Bruins Rolling Rally Parade on June
18, 2011. “Getting to meet many of the players
and getting to briefly touch the Stanley Cup was
amazing,” she shares.
2003
Laura Halsey was
married to Joey Picard
on May 14, 2011,
at Christ Church
in Cambridge, MA.
Laura’s sister, Sarah
(Halsey ’00) Chatigny,
was matron of honor
and organized a
fantastic reception at The Charles Hotel, were she
is Catering Sales Manager. The Rev. Dr. Stephen
Macchia officiated at the ceremony, joining other
LCA alumni, parents, and friends celebrating
the marriage. In attendance were: Lauren Clark,
Betty and Artie Clark, Cindy Johnson, Nate
Macchia, Ruth Macchia, Rosemarie and James
Manganello ’62, David Schultz, Mary and Shen
Shey, and Carol and Tim Slighter. Laura and
Joey honeymooned in Paris and Spain and are
presently living and working in Boston. The
couple met at Wake Forest University, where they
both received degrees.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 24
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Class Notes &
Reunions
Stephanie (Kon)
Petrides and her
husband, Alexandros,
welcomed Nicholas
“Niko” Petrides into
the world on April
24, 2011. He was 6
pounds, 15 ounces, and
20 inches long.
“It has always been a dream to move to
China.”—Evelyn (McInnes ’04) McCulloch
2004
Scott Martinelli
had the privilege
of speaking at the
IEEE Aerospace
Conference in
Big Sky, MT. At
the conference
he met current LCA students Travis Robinson
’13 and Matt Biron ’12, and reconnected with
math faculty member and academic technology
coordinator Jim Feenstra. (The students and Mr.
Feenstra were also presenting as the 2011 winners
of the MIT/NASA Zero Robotics International
Space Station Competition.) About reuniting with
friends of LCA, Scott writes it was “a blessing for
me. It was also very cool to see the quality of work
and students that are continuing to come from
LCA. The more I meet others, the more I realize
the benefits that I received from the environment
of Lexington Christian Academy and the education
—academically, socially, and spiritually.”
Matthew Steele and Stephanie Chin were married
on January 8, 2011, at Park Street Church in
Boston. The reception was held in Chinatown.
Matthew and Stephanie met as undergraduates
at MIT. Matthew now works for Google in
Cambridge, MA, and Stephanie is a grad student
at MIT in mechanical engineering. They live in
Quincy and worship at Boston Chinese Evangelical
Church in Chinatown.
“It was very cool to see the quality of work
and students that are continuing to come
from LCA.”—Scott Martinelli ’04
2005
Jen (Himottu)
Flanders writes, “Keith
and I met freshman
year in college at WPI
and he proposed shortly
after we both graduated
from graduate school.
We currently live right
outside Washington,
D.C. (in Maryland) working as a structural
engineer (myself) and fire protection engineer
(Keith). We married at the Mansion on Turner
Hill in Ipswich. My maid of honor was my best
friend from LCA, Elizabeth DiRusso. Also in
attendance were Amanda Cayton, Mike Kennedy,
Geoff Matheson, Roberta Giardi-Souloff ’06
and Dave Souloff ’06, and Kristin DiRusso ’09.
Overall it was a great day with some great friends!”
2006
Janae Detwiler just completed a one-year term of
service through the Mennonite Central Committee
in Bethlehem, Palestine. She is preparing for a
second term of service through the Mennonite
Voluntary Service with Partnership for the
Homeless in New York City.
Evelyn (McInnes) McCulloch and her husband
are thrilled to report that they will be moving to
Beijing, China, in July! She will be teaching third
grade at the International School of Beijing and
David will be learning Mandarin. Evelyn shares, “It
has always been a dream to move to China!”
Carolyn ’06 (‘Care Bear’) graduated in 2010 from
the Honor’s College at Messiah College and now
lives in Philadelphia. She is working in sales for
Hydros Bottle, the first everyday filtering water
bottle company. Carolyn is also in the Philadelphia
Dodgeball Championship for the second year.
She proudly wears the first year Champion’s
T-shirt for her brothers to covet.
All in the Family—the Wheatleys and LCA
Editor’s Note: The Wheatley name is a familiar one to
the LCA family. All five of the Wheatley “kids” graduated from or are attending LCA, and both Dad and Mom,
aka Ted and Lynda, have volunteered in numerous roles
over the years. Here, Lynda provides an update on the
whereabouts of the Wheatleys near and far. . . .
Peter ’14 (known affectionately as ‘Pete
Wheat’) recently won the honor of being the
tallest Wheatley—and he’s 16! Peter, now 6'2",
is keeping us (Lynda and Ted) young as we
continue to enjoy watching LCA Soccer and
Lacrosse games from the sidelines. The Boys
Varsity Soccer Team made it to the semifinals of
the EIL playoffs this year. Go LCA Lions!
Robbie ’11 (‘Rob Dog’) joined the Honor’s
College at Messiah College this past September.
Rob’s first-semester highlight was playing against
older brother Sam, who is a senior, in the flag
football championship! Rob thoroughly controlled
his freshman team position as offensive and
defensive lineman, against the formidable senior
team quarterback Sam. The grueling championship ended with one winning the prestigious flag
football champion T-shirt. Come visit us to see
who wears the treasure!
Sam ’08 (‘Saaaaam’) will graduate from Messiah
College in May 2012 with an economics degree.
Last summer Sam participated in the International
Business Institute (IBI) summer semester overseas.
Forty students and five professors traveled through
parts of Europe, India, and China for three months.
Sam said of IBI, “It was an excellent experience to
help prepare me for work in economic development. I hope to be one of the people who impact
the change of global poverty.”
Frank (‘Frankie’) ’04, a Boston University graduate,
was recently promoted to the rank of Army
Captain serving at Fort Stewart, GA. Frank always
finds a way to connect people, costumes, fun,
and work. He was really glad to learn his LCA
friend and classmate Tim Tocci ’04 was attending
graduate school in Savannah at SCAD, so they are
now roommates! We are so grateful Frank remains
stateside with his Army post.
Ted (‘Dad’) is Executive Vice President of Jones
Lang LaSalle Commercial Real Estate Company. He
continues to perfect his winter passion for building
his skating rink in our backyard. He is now in his 12th
year! Ted also serves as an LCA Trustee.
Lynda (‘Mom’) completes the roster as homemaker
and LCA volunteer. Being a member of the LCA
community enables Lynda to serve the needs of
friends and family.
Always, we remain grateful for the Christian
education our family receives from all the members
of the LCA community. The LCA education is
timeless as we know God knits His people together
for eternity and not just for the present.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 25
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Class Notes &
Reunions
“We’re on Our Way to LCA!”
LCA welcomes your new bundle of joy! We
would love to send your newborn an LCA bib as
a welcome from all of us here at LCA! When you
get a spare moment, be sure to update the Alumni
Relations Office with your child’s name and date
of birth. Then we’ll be sure to send you an LCA
bib. We’d also love to post a photo in the Academy
Lantern of your new addition wearing his or her
LCA bib. Send photos to [email protected].
Beckett Macdonald
Son of Andy
(Theatre Director
and Arts Division
Head) and Lori
(English Teacher)
Macdonald
The Class of 2006 Reunion attendees (from left): Natasha Utter, Hannah Nelson, David Gallagher, Jessica Dolan, Nicole
(Lucey) Pearson, Michael Carucci, Courtney (Johnson) Hughes, Fred DiStefano, Shayna (Redfearn) Wilson.
Courtney (Johnson)
Hughes married Jeffrey
Hughes on August 6,
2011, at the Fairmont
Copley Plaza in
Boston. The newlyweds
honeymooned in the
Dominican Republic.
Courtney works for
Hilton Hotels Worldwide and Jeffrey is in his third
year at Suffolk Law School. He currently works in
the Labor Relations Department for the City of
Boston. The couple lives in Boston.
Ben Padilla is currently in his second year of a
two-year master’s of science program in the School
of Environment and Natural Resources at The
Ohio State University. Ben’s thesis focuses on the
movements and population dynamics of birds
living in remnant forest patches in an urbanizing
landscape. In his spare time he competes with The
Ohio State University’s cycling team in both road
and mountain bike events. He anticipates graduating
in June 2012.
2011
Karolline Braga was nominated to attend the
National Youth Leadership Forum on National
Security. While there, Karolline had the opportunity
to visit diplomatic, military, and intelligence
institutions. She also attended various Current
Issue Seminars, headed up by a leader in the field
of national security. The Forum is an “intense and
stimulating exploration of the field of government
service for high school students … introducing
students to challenging careers in defense,
intelligence, the diplomatic corps, and more.”
Lydia Brown was awarded a Certificate of Excellence
by the judges in the 2011 Prudential Spirit of
Community Awards. Recipients of this award
participate in volunteer activities that have been
judged to be in the top 10 percent of the state.
Lydia was also interviewed by PBS for her advocacy
work on behalf of the Autistic community.
Additionally, Lydia wrote “Asperger’s Doesn’t
Create Miscreant,” an op-ed that was published in
the Boston Herald.
Carter DesRochers, a freshman at Wheaton
College (IL), visited LCA’s campus over
2007
Thanksgiving break. He was happily reunited with
friends and faculty and staff, and relived a little of
Your milestone 5th Reunion is this year! If you’d like “the glory days.” A political science major, Carter
says, “LCA strongly prepared me for the demands
to help coordinate a planning committee for your
of reading and writing in a highly competitive
class, please contact LCA representative Cynthia
college environment. . . . It’s good to be back here
Nelson at 781.862.7850 x149, or email her at
for this holiday week.” This year, Carter traded a
[email protected].
daily commute from New Hampshire to LCA for a
walk across campus to his classes. “It was worth it,”
2010
he says with a big smile.
Garrett Dean recently
stopped by LCA for
a visit. Garrett is
Follow us to learn more!
currently a sophomore
English major at the
United States Air Force
Academy.
Evangelyn Proctor
Daughter of Clay
(Former Faculty) and
Larissa Proctor
Josiah Cioffi
Son of Nicholas ’02
and Deborah Cioffi
’02 (Coach); and
Grandson of Ellen
Gabrielse (English
Teacher)
Kaitlyn Donaldson
Daughter of Brian
(Director of Business
and Finance) and
Jean Donaldson
Nicholas Petrides
Son of Stephanie
(Kon ’04) and
Alexandros Petrides
Madeleine Sandra
Nord, Daughter of
Brooke (Meserole)
Nord (Former Staff);
and Granddaughter
of the Rev. Dr. Gregg
Meserole (Former
Chaplain and Director
of Student Life)
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 26
3/6/12 2:28 PM
In Memoriam
In Remembrance of Ken McCowan
by Joe Fitzgerald ’62
Joe Fitzgerald ’62 is a longtime columnist for the Boston Herald and a former sports
writer for the Herald, one of the oldest newspapers in America. Joe remembers with
fondness and gratitude the mentorship and education he received at Christian High
School, as Lexington Christian Academy was formerly named.
Ken McCowan arriving to teach at LCA.
During one of our rollicking conversations,
Ken McCowan, by then long retired from a
19-year career as a teacher at Lexington Christian
Academy, feigned horror when a segment of a
sermon he delivered was quoted to him:
“Elijah was a man of passions, passionate
in his prayer, passionate in his preaching,
passionate in his righteous indignation. . . .”
His daughter Ruth ’72 was bringing her
three children to visit him in Maine when
their plane crashed in Sioux City, Iowa. After
getting the two younger ones moving in the
right direction to safety, she went back to her
son John who was stuck in his seat with the
roof of the plane caved in around him. Ruth
stayed with her son as the smoke and fire
rolled through and overcame them both.
“Oh, my goodness,” he groaned. “Did I say all At an overflowing funeral in Bloomfield, New
that? Well, if you’re going to pay such close
Mexico, Ken made his way to the pulpit and
attention I guess I’d better be careful.”
softly identified himself.
That line came to mind when Ken died last
year, not because of the light it shed on his
humor, but rather because of the certainty he
had nothing at all to worry about. The closer
you looked, the more you realized he didn’t
just preach the Word; he personified it, too.
Raymond Berry, former Coach of the New
England Patriots, often pointed out, “Heat
not only builds character; it reveals character.”
The character of Ken McCowan was never
more clearly revealed than during his passage
through the deepest valleys of his life.
A year after leaving LCA in 1987, he buried his
beloved Louise, to whom he’d been married
41 years. At her funeral, though his voice was
cracking, Ken steadfastly invoked the Apostle
Paul’s admonition to “rejoice in all things,”
including his assurance he would be rejoined
with her in the presence of the Lord.
“I doubt I will ever get over the loss of
Louise,” he wrote six months later in a
Christmas letter. “But God has been good to
me, and for His comforting and healing hand
I am most grateful.”
He would be staggered by two more losses
seven months later.
29909.indd 27
“I am Ruth’s father and John’s grandfather,”
he said. “If you will bear with me, I would like
to say something. I lost my wife 15 months
ago; it was a blessing she did not have to see
this. People have said, ‘You’ve had a lot to
endure,’ with the implication, ‘God hasn’t
been very good to you,’ as if to berate Him.”
“Well, I have some basic philosophies in my
life and one of them is this: Whatever God
does is right and good! He makes no mistakes,
and He made no mistakes this week either.
“Now I want to give you a message from
heaven, from Ruth and John. In the Book of
Hebrews we’re told that Abel, being dead, yet
spoke. Well, Ruth and John still speak to us,
too, and they have something to say to you
this morning: ‘We believed in Jesus Christ
and we are now in His presence; it’s real!’”
Supporting Spiritual Life at LCA
The Kenneth A. McCowan Christian
Emphasis Endowment Fund was established
in honor of Mr. Kenneth McCowan. Ken
faithfully served Christian High School/
Lexington Christian Academy (LCA) for
many years, teaching Bible, world history,
and U.S. history. The Kenneth A. McCowan
Christian Emphasis Endowment Fund was
created to endow LCA’s Spiritual Emphasis
Week and Chapel program. It is also used to
support faculty and staff activities that foster
spiritual renewal and refreshment.
Cultivation of the spiritual life is integral
to Lexington Christian Academy. Chief
among LCA’s list of Core Values is
“Glorifying God.” Ken McCowan lived out
this value, putting his faith into practice by
serving and encouraging others daily. His
legacy of a life devoted to Christ will live
on at Lexington Christian Academy.
If you would like support spiritual growth
in LCA students, faculty, and staff by
contributing to The Kenneth A. McCowan
Christian Emphasis Endowment Fund, please
address your gift to the Development Office,
Lexington Christian Academy, 48 Bartlett
Avenue, Lexington, MA 02420, indicating
“McCowan Fund.”
To those of us who loved this remarkable
man, it was a joy to picture the family reunion
Ken must have had, and to imagine the
conversations he’s probably still having with
those he longed to meet: Stephen, Peter,
Daniel, and of course the Lord Himself.
But though he be dead, there is one last thing he
would want to say to all of us reading this now:
Please be assured, it’s real indeed.
Ken and Louise McCowan
The Academy Lantern
3/6/12 2:28 PM
In Memoriam
Betty Anne (Hewitt '56) Bantz husband, Harold, tenderly cared for her and it
A Tribute by Pat Cole '56
Our 45th Reunion in
2001 was a high water
mark for me because
of getting to renew
friendships made
many years ago. I had
not seen most of my
classmates since we graduated in 1956. Probably the most exciting thing was to see how we
had changed and grown in the Lord. The most
striking example to me was the life of Betty
Anne Bantz. I did not know her well in high
school. She lived in another part of the Boston
area and traveled on a different subway to get
to school. And being a shy, quiet girl, she led a
very unassuming life. Betty Anne’s description
of herself: “I was painfully shy, socially inept,
and backward.” The gal I met in 2001 was entirely different. In 1966, the Lord transformed
her into an energetic, fun-loving, people-person
who knew no bounds when it came to reaching
out to others in genuine love and concern. Her
faith bubbled over and affected all those with
whom she came in contact.
During that reunion and subsequent
correspondences, I learned of her gift as an
artist. She was a singer, composer, and guitar
player whose deep, unwavering Christian faith
in all aspects of her life touched the hearts
of many. She worked as an editor, helping
other authors produce their best work. She
wrote a number of novels, four of which were
published. You will want to find these and read
them, especially if you were a CHS student in
the 1950s. The names and events will strike
a familiar chord even though the story is
fictional. The series is called Secrets of the Heart.
Betty Anne also custom-designed houses, and
specialized in black-and-white renderings of
homes/buildings. We were privileged to have
her designs of Christian High’s Garden Street
(Cambridge) entrance and lantern.
Betty Anne married the love of her life, Harold
Bantz, on June 21, 1961, after attending
Aurora College. They raised five children,
Deanna, Darren, Dean, Dorianne, and Don,
and were blessed with 15 grandchildren.
For the past several years, my dear friend and
prayer partner fought a valiant fight with
cancer. Chemo and radiation soon became
too difficult and the cancer began to have the
upper hand. We were able to visit them for
three days in December 2010, and were blessed
beyond words at the gracious hospitality even
in the midst of pain and suffering. Her faithful
was a privilege to behold. Betty Anne passed
into the presence of Jesus on June 16, 2011.
Thank you, Father, for this precious saint and
for the influence she has had on my life as well
as many others. Her legacy will live on.
Claude Albert Cole
Claude was known for his sense of humor and
for spending quality time with the children
of his family and church. He was especially
interested in the relationship between those of
the Christian and Jewish faiths.
Michel T. Doreau
Beloved LCA Board
Claude Albert Cole, 94, of Lexington, went
of Trustees member,
home to be with the Lord on January 2, 2012.
Michel (Mike) T.
Claude was predeceased by his wife, Forestine
Doreau of BurlingP. Cole. Claude was the father of LCA alumni
ton, MA, formerly
Pamela J. Cole ’62, of New Bedford, MA;
of Carlisle, MA, died
Claudia (Cole ’64) Souther and her husband,
peacefully on SepMarvin, of Chesapeake, VA; and Lois (Cole
tember 11, 2011,
’x68) Bartee of Lexington. Claude is also surfollowing a long illness. He was 67. In his final
vived by five grandchildren, six great-grandchil- 36 hours of life, Mike enjoyed a living memodren, and many nieces and nephews.
rial while engaging with over 50 friends and
family members who visited him from as far
Claude and Forestine were deeply committed to away as Canada, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania.
Christian education throughout their lives. They He is remembered as a sweet, caring husband
were active parents at Christian High School, at- and gracious father.
tending every event and providing transportation
when the school was located on Garden Street
Mike was born in Paris, France, on August 18,
in Cambridge. They continued to be active even 1944, to the late Bernard and Clara (Colford)
after the school moved to Lexington.
Doreau. Mike and his mother moved to the
United States in 1947. Through his father’s
Claude spent two decades working at the
influence, Mike gained his love for French
Boston Branch of Abbott Laboratories. Then,
cuisine, fine wine, and chocolate.
together with Forestine, he operated Anderson
Transfer Co., Inc., a specialty delivery service
Mike grew up in New York City and
for health care products. After reaching
graduated from Milton Academy in Milton,
retirement age, he worked at the University of
MA. He earned his undergraduate degree in
New England in Biddeford, ME.
electrical engineering from Lehigh University
in Bethlehem, PA, and went on to Carnegie
A deep faith characterized his life. Claude and
Mellon University in Pittsburgh, where he
Forestine were one of the five couples who
completed his master’s degree and Ph.D. in
founded Grace Chapel in Lexington, where
electrical engineering in 1976.
they maintained membership throughout their
lives. While living in Biddeford, they were active On October 20, 1973, Mike married Kathleen
participants of the United Baptist Church of
(Limegrover). They moved north for employSaco. Together they volunteered with Pioneer
ment and lived in Maynard before settling in
Clubs and served as host parents for internaCarlisle, MA, in 1980. Mike worked as an electional students of many different faiths studying trical engineer at Digital in Maynard. He made
at Harvard, MIT, and Boston University.
important contributions to advances in computer chip design. After his retirement in 2007,
he and his wife moved to Burlington, MA.
Mike enjoyed summers in Newport, RI, where
he was a longtime member of the Spouting
Rock Beach Association. He also enjoyed puns,
mathematical puzzles, and traveling, especially
on cruises.
Betty Anne (Hewitt ’56) Bantz’ illustration of the entrance of
Christian High School on Garden Street in Cambridge, MA.
He was a member of Redeemer Presbyterian
Church in Concord, MA, and served on the
Board of Trustees at Lexington Christian
Academy starting in 1978. Friends and family
remember Mike for his strong faith in God and
considered him a role model who exemplified
generosity, kindness, and humility.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 28
3/6/12 2:28 PM
In Memoriam
“Mike Doreau was a gem, a sweet and gentle
man of strong faith who will be dearly missed
on our Board,” says Jim Bolton ’72, Chairman
of the LCA Board of Trustees. “Mike loved
Lexington Christian Academy and served
faithfully and well for many years. He made all
Board-related events that he could, with his dear
wife, Kathy, at his side. He always had a smile
and kind word for all who crossed his path.”
Stephen Tavilla
Former Board member
and alumni parent and
grandparent Stephen
(“Steve”) Tavilla, 87,
of Bedford, MA, died
peacefully January 1,
2012, in his home,
surrounded by family.
He is survived by Claire, his wife of 64 years; son
Mike is predeceased by his stepmother, Dixie
Paul Tavilla and his wife, Ann, of San Antonio,
(Reynolds) Doreau, and his cousin Frederic
TX; daughter Stephanie ’68 and her husband,
de Sibert. He is survived by his beloved wife,
Joseph Calareso, of Coral Springs, FL; daughter
Kathleen; devoted sons, Philip ’98 and his wife, Linda (Tavilla ’73), and her husband, Kirk Ware
Heidi (Ray), of Burlington; and Edward ’00
’72, of Westford, MA; and daughter Cynthia
and his wife, Rebekah (Good), of Chattanooga, of Lowell, MA; 11 grandchildren and 8 great
TN; and grandsons, Emmet and Simon
grandchildren—the newest born January 5,
Doreau, of Burlington.
2012 to Steve’s granddaughter, Angelina Calareso Weyler, a Bible teacher at LCA, and named
“Mike had a deep love for LCA that extended
Sydney Tate, in honor of her great grandfather’s
from a time prior to his own two sons
initials “S. T.”
attending our Academy and beyond their
graduation from our Academy,” states Head of
Steve Tavilla was born in 1924, the oldest son
School Mark Davis. “Mike’s active role on our
and second of 10 children in a family founded
Board, which included involvement in building
on the strength and hard work of parents who
projects, admissions, and academics, brought
emigrated from Italy. Self-described as “the lithim great joy as he saw the fruits of his labors
tle kid from Cambridge who didn’t go to high
extend to the students at our school. His joyful
school,” Steve at a young age began getting up
spirit and kindly manner will not be forgotten.”
at 3:00 a.m. to work at his family’s wholesale
produce business. Steve and his six brothers
A memorial service was held on Saturday,
eventually built the P. Tavilla Company into
October 1, 2011, at Grace Chapel in
one of the largest wholesale produce distribuLexington. Memorial contributions may
tors in New England.
be made to Lexington Christian Academy,
Memorial Gifts, 48 Bartlett Avenue, Lexington,
Other related businesses he and his brothers
MA 02420.
owned included produce sales companies in
Janice R. (Mullen ’57) Mallett California, a potato farm in Maine, a trucking
Janice Ruth (Mullen) Mallett, 71, passed away firm, a retail produce business, and a tomato
farm and packing operation in Florida. Given
peacefully at home on January 22, 2011. She
his broad experience in all phases of the prowas the daughter of the late Joseph and Sadie
duce business, Steve was invited by President
Mullen of Quincy, MA.
Reagan to serve on Presidential Task Forces to
several South and Central American nations.
Janice graduated from Christian High School
(now Lexington Christian Academy) in 1957,
Known as the “Pied Piper of Faneuil Hall,”
and attended New England Conservatory of
Steve orchestrated the move of all of the
Music. She dedicated many years as a child
wholesale produce dealers from that historic
advocate for the Federation for Children with
location to the newly constructed New England
Special Needs and retired from Massachusetts
Produce Center in Chelsea to allow its redeGeneral Hospital, where she worked as an administrative assistant. She enjoyed spending time velopment into the vibrant retail center that is
the famous Faneuil Hall Marketplace today.
with friends, music, nature, and reading books.
This experience led Steve to his second career in
She was the loving mother of Joseph Mallett of real estate, including the purchase of wholesale
Plymouth, MA, Thomas Mallett of Plymouth, produce centers for the cities of Miami, FL, and
Houston, TX, the development of a multi-use
MA, Jennifer Banti of Marshfield, MA, and
office park in Acton, MA, and a 1,000-unit golf
George Mallett of Marshfield, MA; sister of
course community in Naples, FL, known as the
the late Erma Fenton of Jacksonville, FL, and
Strand. Steve also served for many years on the
Joseph Mullen of Rotunda West, FL; and
beloved grandmother of Eric, Luke, and Erica. boards of City Bank and U. S. Trust of Boston.
Marthe E. (Gugger ’52)
Thornhill
Marthe Thornhill, 76, of Riverside, RI, died
peacefully on December 28, 2010, at home
surrounded by her loving family. She was
the wife of Ralph Thornhill and the late Dr.
Laurence Doyle. She was born in Boston to the
late Edward L. and Anita L. (Grepin) Gugger.
Following her graduation from Christian High
School (now Lexington Christian Academy)
in 1952, Marthe studied at Barrington College and graduated in 1956. She was an active
volunteer teacher at South Swansea Baptist
Church and was a nursery school teacher at
the Barrington Early Childhood Center for 18
years before retiring in 2004.
Besides her husband, she is survived by a
daughter, Carol J. Siino of Bristol, RI; a son,
Bradford M. Doyle of Barrington, RI; a brother,
Edward Gugger of Wilmington, MA; two
stepsons, Ralph W. Thornhill of Pawtucket, RI,
and Daniel Thornhill of Acushnet, MA; two
stepdaughters, Cindy Blount of Barrington, RI,
and Sheryl Beresford of Haymarket, VA; 15
grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. She
was the mother of the late Stephen E. Doyle and
stepmother of the late Mark S. Thornhill.
Faith (Dodge ’50) Wheeler
Faith D. Wheeler, 78, of Randolph, MA,
passed away at home on January 4, 2011, after
a brief illness. She was born December 27,
1932, in Medford, MA, the daughter of the
late Sherwood O. and Edna M. (Hesse) Dodge.
Faith was a 1950 graduate of Boston Christian High School, (now Lexington Christian
Academy) was originally named, and attended
Taylor University.
Faith was a member of Faith Bible Chapel in
Randolph, where she led the ladies’ Bible study,
mentored many, and was a Sunday school
teacher. She served as past president of the PTA
at the Gail N. Chapman Elementary School in
Randolph for four years.
She is survived by her husband of 57 years,
David A. Wheeler; two sons, David S. Wheeler
and his wife, Ana, of Tallahassee, FL, and John
M. Wheeler and his wife, Cathy, of San Diego,
CA; two daughters, Celeste W. Archer and her
husband, Gary, of Randolph, and Dulcie A.
Marler and her husband, Kish, of Las Vegas,
NV; 13 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren;
a brother, the Rev. Paul S. Dodge of New
Holland, PA; and two sisters, Mildred Lowe of
Bradenton, FL, and Betsey Powell of Farmersville, OH. She was preceded in death by her
parents and an infant sister.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 29
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Alumni in
Action
Like Father, Like Son: Coaches Patrie
The son, Ryan Patrie ’03, started playing
soccer when he was five, and before too long,
his three younger brothers were following
him to the field. The father, Bob Patrie,
started coaching soccer when his son began
elementary school. The father had been a
Malden High School Hall of Famer, League
All-Star, and MVP Goalkeeper. The son
had been LCA Captain for Soccer and
Lacrosse, League All-Star, MVP Defender,
and Class President and Prefect. The father
Early sidelines—Coach
Bob Patrie with his young
is a firefighter and EMT for the Town of
son Ryan.
Wilmington—and was this year’s LCA Girls
Varsity Soccer Assistant Coach. The son is Admissions Associate at
LCA and Resident Assistant for our Boarding Program—and LCA
Girls Varsity Soccer Head Coach for the last three seasons. Great
team, that father and son. . . .
Kick Off
Bob Patrie says, “My wife, Sherri, and I were passionate from the
beginning about finding a great Christ-centered education for our
four boys. I am so happy with the way our boys have been nurtured at
LCA—and they’re all so different. LCA steps back and looks at each
child’s skill and abilities and encourages them in that direction. There is
a lot of grace to grow. Our family without a doubt has been blessed and
challenged here.” (Ryan’s brother Kyle attended Shawsheen Tech and
has served as an LCA Meadow Breeze Camp Counselor; Justin ’07 also
has worked at Meadow Breeze; and Timothy graduated in 2010.)
Bob and Sherri have served many years as Parent Representatives and
appreciate the way LCA parents support each other and work to build
community. But last fall offered a new opportunity. “As soon as there
was an opening on the Varsity coaching staff I knew my dad would be
my first option,” the younger Coach Patrie says with a grin. “I have
such respect for him as my father and as a coach. He understands that
the heat of competition can bring the best and worst out of people.
He doesn’t compartmentalize his faith—God is in everything he does.
He shows such grace. And how many people get to say every day, ‘I’m
going to the soccer field to coach with my Dad’? He would often come
straight to LCA after his shift and he’s used his vacation time to be
here. It shows how much he loves coaching and the game of soccer to
be willing to do that sort of thing.” And how much he loves his son.
“It’s a privilege to be here and coach with Ryan for this first time,”
Bob says. “Needless to say, it’s been great. He’s easy to work with, he
knows what he wants to do, and he’s highly organized. He will turn
and ask us, ‘What do you think?’ Everything flows and harmonizes
well. Coaching is quite a responsibility, and we recognize that. Parents
are entrusting us with their children, their students, their players.
There are lessons learned here that can’t be learned in the classroom,
and that outweighs the athletic aspect of it because they’re going to
take that into their future.”
parents that their kids were around good people. They wanted teachers
and friends who instruct and influence positively—who encourage my
faith and not detract from it. I could look to my teachers and coaches
and say, these are the kind of people I want to be like.”
Ryan says the skills he learned at LCA—to think critically, organize
his thoughts, and write well—especially prepared him for Liberty
University, where he majored in government/pre-law and minored in
business administration. In between classes he captained men’s lacrosse
and enjoyed intramural soccer and basketball. During the fall semester
of his junior year Ryan traveled to Kampala, Uganda, to teach at a
school and coach soccer—experiences he says greatly impacted the
work he does now with LCA’s international students. “Sports have no
boundaries in terms of nation or culture, and humanity is the same
wherever you go. We can celebrate cultural differences amidst shared
interests. Also, the trip gave me greater appreciation for the global
church. For a kid growing up in suburban Boston this was a lifechanging experience for me.”
Full Time
Ryan first heard about the job opening in LCA’s Office of Admission
one summer when he was working at LCA’s Meadow Breeze Day
Camp. Then-Director of Admission Cindy Torjesen asked him to help
out at an Open House as an alumnus. “I got to talk about LCA,” Ryan
says with enthusiasm, “and that was fun.” He promptly applied and
interviewed for the position and joined the Admissions team later that
summer. Like his father, he takes his roles seriously. “It’s a joy to meet
new people, and a privilege to walk with them through the process,”
Ryan says about his work in Admissions. “It’s gratifying to see how
excited the students are once they receive their acceptance letter and feel
like they’ve arrived and are a part of something.”
“Coaching at LCA has been special because we’re working with a
group of student-athletes who have such bright minds and are just
great kids,” Ryan shares. “They care about each other and they care
about the world around them. They want to compete and want to do
well. And, the nice thing in a Christian community is that they see
how what they do on the athletic field is an act of worship to God. If
that’s their mindset going into it, their effort is better and their focus
is better. Our success was directly correlated to the fact that our team
really cared about each other. They improved as players and as people.
We became a family.”
Like a father and a son, and like a world of shared experiences and
lasting connection.
Half Time
“Christian education was of utmost importance to my parents,” Ryan
recalls. “Their goal was to put us in good environments where we’d
grow academically and in our faith. There’s a financial cost that comes
with that but they saw the value of it. They looked at LCA and a
couple of other college preparatory schools, but their dream was for
us to be in the school that was right for us. It was so important to my
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 30
The Patrie Coaches return to the field this spring, with Ryan as Boys
Varsity Lacrosse Coach and Bob as Public Address Announcer: “Ladies
and Gentlemen, welcome to The Ware Field, home of the LCA Lions. . . .”
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Darcy Dwyer ’07
Fulbright Scholar
High electricity demands during hot summers in Kuwait
have resulted in dangerous blackouts. Arriving to the
scalding scene is Darcy Dwyer ’07, a Fulbright Fellowship
recipient, who plans to investigate the country’s residential
building energy conservation codes. She will be evaluating
current building regulations as well as optimizing American
energy conservation codes for the Kuwaiti climate.
Darcy credits her LCA Senior Internship at her hometown’s
conservation commission with getting her started on the
path toward a career in sustainability and energy efficiency. “The opportunities and
academic rigor that I experienced at Lexington Christian Academy could not have
prepared me better for the engineering program at Smith College and subsequent
Fulbright Scholarship,” she says. “My interactions with teachers, coaches, and peers laid
the foundation for my lifelong goals.”
While at LCA, Darcy distinguished herself academically and
received both the Outstanding Mathematics Achievement Award
and the Presidential Academic Excellence Award in 2007. Darcy
also participated in several academic clubs and sports teams; she
was a Captain of the Field Hockey team during her senior year
and was recognized for her superior dedication.
Darcy graduated from Smith College in 2011 as an engineering
major and Middle Eastern studies minor. (Her sister, Emily ’09, is
currently a junior at Smith College.) Darcy was honored with the Ford Motor Company
Prize for Sustainability; induction into Phi Beta Kappa, Sigma Xi (scientific research honor
society), and Tau Beta Kappa (Smith’s engineering honor society); and was named an
American Collegiate Hockey Association Academic All-American.
Proficiency in Arabic has been important to Darcy, and she studied the language in Jordan
during the summer of 2009 and spring semester of her junior year. For her senior capstone
research project, Darcy worked with the Northampton DPW and Northampton Energy
and Sustainability Commission to analyze the feasibility of harnessing renewable energy
resources on the city’s capped landfill.
“The opportunities and academic rigor that I experienced at
Lexington Christian Academy could not have prepared me better for the engineering
program at Smith College and subsequent Fulbright Scholarship.”
While an undergraduate, Darcy also conducted research on integrating human-machineinterfaces into vehicle prototypes for lane change assistance in Germany (funded by
the National Science Foundation and Virginia Tech). She also spent 10 weeks in Italy,
building the prototype for a hybrid vehicle with an international team of students through
MIT’s Vehicle Design Summit.
The commendable depth and breadth of these experiences in someone just out of college
reflect Darcy’s heart, mind, and motivation to make a difference for God’s world and the
people He made in His image. “The Fulbright experience is an unique opportunity to
bridge social, cultural, and religious differences,” Darcy says. “While living in Kuwait can
be extremely frustrating at times, the historymaking persistence of the people in this region
has been a source of encouragement when
faced with hurdles in my work. I’m excited to
return to the classroom next year, as I pursue
my master’s degree in mechanical engineering,
and hope to continue on to a career in Middle
Eastern energy conservation policies.”
Calendar
of Events
2012 Winter/Spring
Calendar of Events
March 19–23
Interim
March 26
Winter Athletic Awards
March 29
LCA “Town Hall Meeting”
March 29–April 2
Chamber Singers Tour
April 6
HOLIDAY: Good Friday
April 12
Conferences and Connections
April 14
All-School Social
April 16
HOLIDAY: Patriots’ Day
April 18
Meadow Breeze Day Camp Open House
April 19
Spring Concert
April 24
National Honor Society Induction
April 26–27
Cultivating Inquiry
May 2–4
Senior Exams
May 3–5
Fiddler on the Roof
May 18
ArtsFest
May 19
Boys Lacrosse Alumni Game
May 24
Middle School Awards Night
May 28
HOLIDAY: Memorial Day
May 29–June 1
Senior Trip
June 3
Senior Tea
June 5
Spring Athletic Awards Night
June 7
Class Day
Prom
June 9
Commencement
June 25
Meadow Breeze Day Camp begins
For more information about these
and other LCA events, visit lca.edu.
The Academy Lantern
29909.indd 31
3/6/12 2:28 PM
Lexington Christian Academy
48 Bartlett Avenue Lexington, MA 02420
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
N. READING, MA
PERMIT NO. 96
Please notify LCA at [email protected] if your phone number or email
address has changed so that we can better keep in touch with you.
29909.indd 32
3/6/12 2:28 PM

The Magazine of Lexington Christian Academy

Transcription

Similar documents

Azimut 360 SCCL

here - United States Fashion Industry Association

Meet Your New Principal - Life Christian Academy

Untitled - Liberty Christian Academy

D`Appolonia SpA Clemente Fuggini [email protected]

Annual Report - Lubeznik Center for the Arts

The David Beckham Academy

Life Cycle Thinking in Latin America

leadership - Ursuline Academy

COLUMBUS ACADEMY DAY AT LYND FRUIT FARM