Evan Kanouse ’12 credits a series of independent study classes he took at Trinity-Pawling with helping to shape the direction of his life. “I studied computer science with Van Metcalf and philosophy and ethics with John Gedrick. These teachers were incredibly generous, sharing their time and wisdom with me. We had in-depth conversations over multiple cups of coffee, and while I may not remember everything we discussed, they provided a quiet space for me to learn, to grow and to evolve. The boys at T-P now are so fortunate to have that built-in opportunity for mentoring through the project-based learning program.”
While a senior at Bard College majoring in religion, Kanouse wrote his thesis on the role of the Chapel throughout Trinity-Pawling’s history. “Old-Time Quiet in a Breathless Age: Faith, Virtue, and the Strength of the Social Gospel at Trinity-Pawling School” required interviewing students and faculty and digging into the archives.
“The School is steeped in perseverance. You have to put effort into everything you do – it’s the DNA of any T-P alum! As Mr. Carp used to say, ‘Don’t make excuses for yourself or your work. Just get it done and everything falls into place.’ I hope to instill these same values in my own students today.”
Kanouse now serves as technology director at Mizzentop Day School in Pawling, where he spent four years prior to attending Trinity-Pawling. He also teaches seventh and eighth grade writing. Even as a new teacher, Kanouse understands he can set high standards and still be a caring, compassionate educator. “I’m so conscious of how boys learn and how society pressures them to behave. I’m one of three male educators at Mizzentop so that allows me to serve as a role model, just as I was shaped and guided at T-P.”