At Trinity-Pawling, our traditions are more than ceremonies or events — they are expressions of our shared values and the bonds that unite us. They shape our daily rhythms, define our shared experience, and reinforce the strengths that distinguish our school community. Whether it’s gathering for a student-led Chapel Talk in All Saints’ Chapel, sitting together at family-style meals, or honoring milestones in our Stepping Up ceremony, these moments anchor us in something greater than ourselves and connect generations of students, faculty, and alumni.
What makes these traditions so powerful is not their age, but their ability to reinforce the continuity of the Trinity-Pawling experience. They remind our students that they are part of a legacy — a long line of students who have walked these halls, grappled with the same challenges, and emerged stronger as a result. As our world evolves, we remain committed to honoring our past while preparing boys for the future. Trinity-Pawling’s traditions aren’t stagnant; they grow with us, guided by purpose and reflection. To walk this campus is to walk alongside generations who have come before — men who once stood where our boys now stand, learning the same values that define the Trinity-Pawling experience. It’s a legacy we’re proud to uphold and a future we’re excited to build.
When students speak of “The Brotherhood,” they are describing the powerful, unspoken bond that connects them across classes and generations. It’s seen in small moments of kindness: an older boy teaching a freshman how to stack dishes after a meal, or a senior offering encouragement before a Chapel Talk. One of the distinctive strengths of Trinity-Pawling is that our students value kindness over status — and research affirms that such communities lead to healthier, happier lives. Watching a young student navigate his first days here, supported by his brothers, is a powerful reminder: the depth of the common good in any community is rooted in everyday acts of kindness. It is an honor to lead a School where these traditions continue to flourish and where community is not just spoken — it is lived.
Student Chapel Talks, in particular, continue to inspire me. There is something profoundly moving about seeing young men speak from the heart in front of their peers — with courage, vulnerability, and conviction. These stories become part of the School’s story, year after year. Our traditions create an opportunity for boys to learn by doing, and in doing, to grow with joy and purpose. In this Brotherhood, they find friendships that endure, confidence that is earned, and the lifelong understanding that honor, kindness, and perseverance matter.
Trinity-Pawling compels me as an educator because of the culture of conscientious discipline that permeates our learning environment. Aristotle wrote, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Here, boys learn that excellence lies in the details — that effort reflects character, and character is built through consistent, thoughtful action.
As we guide our students into an ever-changing world, these traditions offer stability, meaning, and connection. They help us form a community built on trust and shared purpose — one that stretches across generations of alumni and friends. It is a privilege to witness these traditions thrive, not as relics of the past, but as vital, evolving parts of the Trinity-Pawling experience.
For his Senior Independent Project (SIP), Hunter Baran ’25 set out to leave a meaningful legacy at Trinity-Pawling — one that future students could enjoy and benefit from. A five-year member of the school community, Hunter drew inspiration from his love of kayaking and the peaceful moments he’s spent at the Trinity-Pawling Pond. His vision? To refurbish an old, broken-down canoe and return it to the water.
The canoe, originally donated by Mr. Mead, became the focus of Hunter’s Wintersession. With the guidance of Mr. Frost and Mr. Moreno in the woodworking shop, he spent two and a half weeks sanding, repairing, and applying epoxy. The process included extra time outside of the given SIP block — a full-time effort made possible because Hunter wasn’t involved in a winter sport. Mistakes were made, but those moments became valuable lessons in problem-solving and resilience.
Pushing the project further, Hunter chose to pursue an SIP with Distinction. This meant crafting a canoe paddle using repurposed wood from old benches removed during the old hockey locker room renovation. He’s now putting the finishing touches on the paddle, aiming to complete it before his mid-May presentation to the faculty.
Reflecting on his experience, Hunter appreciates how the Practicum — from Winter Projects to GCC to SIP — has prepared him for college life. Known for his independence, he learned the value of teamwork, compromise, and trust. “It felt very professional,” he shared, “especially the process of preparing and practicing for presentations.”
Most importantly, Hunter embraced the journey: stepping outside his comfort zone, learning from mistakes, and celebrating the satisfaction of hard-earned accomplishment. “It’s easy to talk about something you’re passionate about,” he said. When presentation day arrives, he hopes to share not just a project, but a lasting contribution to the place he’s called home.
by Judy Redder
For their Senior Independent Projects (SIPs), Nick Brandmeyer ’25 and Beni Maly ’25 traveled to South Africa to learn firsthand about the fight against wildlife poaching — and returned determined to educate others.
Nick’s project focuses on raising awareness about the imbalance between poachers and wildlife rangers. Initially planning a backpacking trip, Nick shifted gears when the opportunity to travel to South Africa arose. “It was a huge step outside my comfort zone, and I took a chance, and I’ve never once regretted it,” he shared. His project draws on what he learned in South Africa — through dog vaccinations, game drives, presentations, tracking exercises, and helicopter patrols — to help educate others about poaching and the urgent need for greater support, funding, and awareness.
Beni’s SIP centers on creating a short documentary about rhino poaching, using footage he captured during the trip. After learning about and making a connection with alumnus Mickey Carroll ’08 and his organization in South Africa, Soldiers for Wildlife — thanks to Director of College Counseling Slade Mead — Beni quickly immersed himself in the issue. His goal is to spread awareness in a “modernized” way to younger audiences who may not typically engage with conservation topics. Through firsthand experiences — working alongside rangers, flying helicopter patrols, helping at rehabilitation centers, and supporting veterinary efforts in local villages — Beni saw the raw realities of wildlife conservation, shaping not just his project but his entire perspective.
Both students credit the experience with not only shaping their projects but also changing their perspectives. “It was life-changing without exaggeration,” Beni reflected. Nick added, “I think every student should have the chance to go on a trip to South Africa and do the work I did — it was life-changing.” Their work stands as a testament to the power of stepping outside one’s comfort zone and making a difference.
by Missy McCluskey
The hydroponic garden at Trinity-Pawling took root this year thanks to Jeff Powell P’18, a past parent and Senior Vice President of CulinArt, who introduced the idea to the School. Powell saw an opportunity to enhance learning and support the dining program through sustainable gardening. Science teacher Emily Tucci P’28 and her 8th-grade class brought the project to life, creating a hands-on, collaborative experience for students.
Mrs. Tucci’s 8th-grade science class led the project, from setting up the system to researching hydroponics. Unlike traditional gardening, hydroponics uses filtered, nutrient-rich water at the correct pH level, instead of soil and fertilizer, dramatically reducing water usage while promoting healthy plant growth. “It’s a win-win for the environment and the water bill,” Tucci explained.
Students chose to grow green leaf lettuce, basil, bok choy, kale, and Sweet William flowers. Once harvested, the produce was given to CulinArt to be used in the family-style meals served at Scully Dining Hall.
Along with setting up and maintaining the hydroponic garden, Mrs. Tucci created a unit on different growing mediums with the help of Ashley Frost, who majored in agriculture in college. Together, they guided students through research and hands-on labs comparing hydroponics to traditional soil gardening, deepening their understanding of plant growth and sustainable practices.
The project has sparked excitement both in and outside the classroom—some students are even planning home gardens this summer. “I love that they have learned to love the process of caring for the plants, through enjoying them on their plate!” Tucci shared.
Looking ahead, Tucci hopes the hydroponic garden will continue to be a lasting part of the curriculum. “This is only the beginning,” she said, emphasizing the garden’s role in experiential learning, sustainability, and community collaboration.
by Missy McCluskey
Over our March Spring Break, five Trinity-Pawling students hit the road with Director of College Counseling Slade Mead for an unforgettable college tour. In just six days, the group logged 1,600 miles, visiting Marist College, Colgate University, Syracuse University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Union College, Trinity College, Skidmore College, UMass Amherst, Northeastern University, Boston University, Boston College, Tufts University, Brandeis University, Babson College, and Bentley University.
The goal of the trip was simple but important: help students discover what type of school feels right for them. “By visiting a mix of large and small, rural and suburban, liberal arts and STEM-focused institutions, students develop an understanding of their preferences — an essential first step in the college search process,” Mead said. “We visited every type of school out there.”.
Highlights included watching a Syracuse basketball game at the Dome, grabbing pizza at the famous Pepe’s, and enjoying personalized campus tours from Trinity-Pawling alumni Sean Wyman ’24 (Bentley) and Michael Dearborn ’24 (Skidmore).
According to Mead, the most rewarding moments were hearing students climb back into the van after a visit and say, “I really liked that school.”
The Spring Break College Tour complements the year-round work of Trinity-Pawling’s College Counseling Office, which is uniquely supported by the entire faculty. Unlike many schools where college counselors alone write what is known as the Secondary School Report (similar to a teacher recommendation, but reflecting on a student outside the classroom), “Trinity-Pawling teachers, who know the boys best, write the official Secondary School Reports (SSR). This personalized approach gives colleges a deeper, more authentic understanding of each student’s character, strengths, and growth. It’s a distinctive part of the Trinity-Pawling experience and a true advantage in the college admission process,” Mead commented. “Colleges love our SSRs!”
This year, Trinity-Pawling seniors submitted over 800 college applications to a wide range of schools, highlighting the diverse paths and bright futures ahead for the Class of 2025. View the Class of 2025 matriculation list on our website.
by Missy McCluskey
When Mickey Carroll was at Trinity-Pawling, most people knew him as a standout hockey player and a popular prefect. But no one really knew his true passion: wildlife and nature. In 2017, he shifted from a career in tech sales to pursue his dream: wildlife conservation, fighting to combat the insidious poaching of rhinos and elephants in South Africa.
“A hockey friend of mine and I started SFW (Soldiers for Wildlife) Conservation, supporting rangers and conservationists in South Africa,” Mickey explains. “Last year, more than 150 rangers were killed globally – the majority in Africa and Asia – trying to protect rhinos and elephants from being poached. It’s a war no one talks about.”
In October 2024, Mickey Carroll reached out to Slade Mead and offered to serve as a mentor in the Senior Independent Project (SIP) program. Slade put Mickey in touch with Nick Brandmeyer ’25 and Beni Maly ’25, and the seniors developed their projects centered on rhino and elephant poaching. Mickey sent documentaries and research papers about the topic, and the boys immersed themselves in this critical issue. They discussed what they learned on video calls and group chats with Mickey throughout the fall and early winter.
The bonus? The young men spent ten days over spring break with Mickey and his team at the SFW Conservation preserve adjacent to Kruger National Park. “It was an intense, exhausting ten days, anything but a vacation,” Mickey and Beni Maly agreed. “And that’s what made it so mind-blowing,” Beni said. “We did some meaningful, hands-on projects that really helped the conservationists. We flew in a helicopter with a ranger to survey a new plot of land. We assisted a group of trainers who work with Dutch Shepherds specifically for tracking and anti-poaching. We went on some game drives and did an overnight camping under the stars in Kruger National Park. We experienced first-hand reality about poaching and the people who put their lives at risk to protect these animals.”
Beni is in the process of completing a 20-minute documentary based on what he learned through his SIP and trip to South Africa, hoping to earn a diploma of distinction at Commencement in May. He also plans to return to South Africa in the summer of 2026 to continue his work with Mickey and SFW Conservation.
As for Mickey, his reward comes from being able to give back to his alma mater and share this conservation opportunity with Trinity-Pawling students. “You see the rawness of life when you’re in South Africa. It gives you appreciation not only for wildlife but for humanity. I always come back from Africa with such a perspective shift, and I try to apply that to my daily life back in the States. I think the boys got a taste of that mindset as well.”
by Maria Buteux Reade
On Saturday, April 26, the Trinity-Pawling community came together to rededicate the Mo Vaughn ’86 Baseball Field. During the ceremony, the Class of 1964 and other community members were honored for their extraordinary generosity, making possible the construction of our state-of-the-art turf field, equipped with covered dugouts, bullpens, and most importantly, good drainage!
Over 100 alumni, parents, students, and community members braved the threatening forecast, wind, and bouts of rain to celebrate Trinity-Pawling baseball, the only school in the Founders League with a turf field. While other games in the league were canceled due to poor field conditions, Trinity-Pawling faced Westminster despite a night and morning of heavy rain.
Head of School Bill Taylor led the ceremony and ribbon cutting. Alumni speaker Tag Demment ’64 was joined by Doug Ebert ’64, Kim Foley ’64, Dave Jollin ’64, and Bill Kervan ’64, who threw out the first pitch. Tag noted that, “In 1964, I hit, I think, my only home run at T-P. The event occurred because the line drive I hit into right center field rolled into a snowbank and could not be found as I rounded the bases. I would hope no such undeserving home run will ever be hit on this beautiful field!”
Though the Pride baseball team was overpowered by Westy’s pitching and hot bats, they celebrated Senior Day following the game. This ceremony recognized the contributions of the graduating members of the team, and Head Coach Cody Doyle wished players success in their future endeavors, which include several members going on to play baseball in college.
Following the game, a reception was held in the Class of 1964 Hall of Fame and Alumni Room in the Smith Field House and included a performance by the Trinity-Pawling Jazz Band. Thanks to everyone who joined in this historic celebration of generosity and brotherhood. View photos of the event here.
by Matt Soper
As we reach the end of April, we will soon be entering the final month of sports at Trinity-Pawling — not only for the Spring Term, but the entire year! Taking a look at the last couple of months, we’ve seen a lot of success from each of our varsity lacrosse, baseball, golf, track, and tennis teams!
Varsity baseball has had a fun year so far on the newly renovated Mo Vaughn ’86 Field! In their efforts, the team has amassed a 4-6 record. Pride baseball’s biggest win of the season came last Wednesday in a monumental 6-4 triumph, which broke their 4-year losing streak to the rival Avon!
The lacrosse team has been the definition of no-quit this year. Last week, they overcame a 10-4 deficit after the half to force overtime with Berkshire! I had a chance to speak with the optimistic Jack Rodman ’25 about his team: “It’s been a season of ups and downs, but we are still very much in the playoff race. We are feeling confident, and everyone is ready to keep fighting down to the last game.”
Varsity tennis is looking to regain its early-season success down the final stretch in May. They earned a 6-3 win in their first match of the season at Millbrook! With six matches still in front of them, they’ll have plenty of opportunity to get back on track.
Track and field earned its only victory in a meet against Canterbury and Millbrook. Senior, Jackson Williams, commented on the coming month: “Weather has proven to be a significant challenge for us in April. With summer on the horizon, we’re excited to get some consistency!”
Last but not least, the varsity golf team has fought hard this year in their two matches against Berkshire and Canterbury. They are hungry for their first victory after losing both matches in tight scores. Luckily, they’ll have lots of chances to prove themselves with 5 matches in May.
There’s much to be proud of so far, and much to look forward to this Spring Term. Let’s finish the year off strong, Pride!
by Ian Arnott ’25
Our Pride Perspectives webinar series continues with another exciting discussion — we hope you’ll tune in for our final presentation of the year!
The Power of Belonging: Helping Boys Thrive in a Diverse World
At Trinity-Pawling, the richness of the school community is enriched by its diverse community. The School’s commitment to excellence and community demands that its dedication to diversity be reflected by inclusion and a commitment to creating a culture with a strong sense of belonging. The learning experience is significantly enhanced by this diversity, as is the personal growth that comes from an environment that is composed of people from different races, religions, nations, genders, and backgrounds.
Join Head of School Bill Taylor and members of the Trinity-Pawling faculty, students, and alumni to learn more about how boys benefit from a Trinity-Pawling education.
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
7:00-8:00 PM (EST)
For a full list of past webinars in our Pride Perspectives series, please visit our website.
This June, we’re bringing the Trinity-Pawling community together across Asia! Join us for special gatherings in Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Tokyo, and Seoul, where alumni, students, and families can connect and hear from Head of School Bill Taylor about the School’s strategic vision.
Attending from Trinity-Pawling School: Head of School Mr. William Taylor and Mrs. Jennifer Taylor, and Director of Advancement Elly Erickson.
Shenzhen Gathering
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
7:00-9:00 PM
Raffles Shenzhen
T7, One Shenzhen Bay, 3008 Zhongxin Road
Nanshan District, Shenzhen, China
A special thank you to Mr. Jinchao Huang and Ms. Xiaowen Zhang P’27 for their support in coordinating this event.
Shanghai Gathering
Friday, June 13, 2025
5:30 PM • 45-Minute Guided Museum Tour
7:00-9:00 PM • Reception
Han Tianheng Art Museum
No. 70 Bole Street, Jiading District, Shanghai, China
A special thank you to Mr. Jing Zhou and Ms. Yinzhi Han P’28 for their support in coordinating this event.
Beijing Gathering
Saturday, June 14, 2025
7:00-9:00 PM
CP Center
CP Platinum Hall, 4th Floor, No. 20 Jin He East Avenue
Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
A special thank you to Mr. Ping Tse and Mrs. Yanxia Zang P’29 for their support in coordinating this event.
Tokyo Reception
Tuesday, June 17, 2025
7:00-9:00 PM
La Provence at InterContinental Tokyo Bay
1-16-2 Kaigan, Minato-Ku
Tokyo, 105-8576, Japan
A special thank you to Mr. Yu Tamura ’10 for his assistance in coordinating this event.
Seoul Reception
Thursday, June 19, 2025
7:00-9:00 PM
Grand Intercontinental Seoul Parnas
Maple Room, Fifth Floor, (06164) 521, Teheran-ro
Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
A special thank you to Mr. Nam Kyu Kang ’97 and Mr. Joon Sung Kim ’04 for their assistance in coordinating this event.
We’re closing in on our goal — and the momentum is building!
Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our community, we’ve already raised $1.15 million this year toward our $1.65 million Trinity-Pawling Fund goal. Every gift helps fuel the brotherhood, mentorship, and transformational experiences that define a Trinity-Pawling education.
When you give to the Trinity-Pawling Fund, you support:
- Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Faculty and Staff Excellence
- Academics
- Arts
- Athletics
- Signature Programs
- And so much more!
This is our moment to rally! Together, we can make an extraordinary difference FOR THE BOYS!
Ways to Contribute:
- Online: www.trinitypawling.org/for-the-boys
- Phone: 845-855-4833
- Venmo: @TrinityPawlingSchool
- Check: Trinity-Pawling School, Office of Advancement, 700 Route 22, Pawling, NY 12564
Join the celebration! Come back to campus, reminisce with friends and faculty, and see what’s new at your alma mater. We can’t wait to see you!
HOMECOMING AND REUNION WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS
Friday, October 3, 2025
All-Class Reunion 18-Hole Golf Outing
The Trinity-Pawling Experience Student Panel Presentation with Head of School Bill Taylor
All-Alumni Welcome Reception
25th Reunion Dinner for the Class of 2000
Saturday, October 4, 2025
Honor Guard Reception for Classes of 1942-1975
Distinguished Alumni Awards Honoring:
- Tom Hess ’70
- Sam Hemingway ’70
Alumni Memorial Service with the Trinitones
Athletic Hall of Fame and Arts Hall of Fame Induction
Homecoming Football Game
All-Alumni Farewell Reception
50th Reunion Dinner for the Class of 1975
CELEBRATING CLASS YEARS ENDING IN 0s AND 5s!
While all alumni are invited back for Homecoming and Reunion Weekend, these classes are celebrating milestone reunions:
MILESTONE REUNIONS IN 2025:
2020 – 5th reunion
2015 – 10th reunion
2010 – 15th reunion
2005 – 20th reunion
2000 – 25th reunion
1995 – 30th reunion
1990 – 35th reunion
1985 – 40th reunion
1980 – 45th reunion
1975 – 50th reunion
1970 – 55th reunion
1965 – 60th reunion
1960 – 65th reunion
On April 8, members of the Trinity-Pawling community — alumni, parents, and friends — gathered once again in Palm Beach, FL for an evening of connection and celebration. Graciously hosted at the home of Dick Bauer ’70, Trustee, the event offered a warm and welcoming space for guests to share stories, reconnect, and reflect on their shared Trinity-Pawling experience.
Together, these moments in Palm Beach weren’t just about catching up — they were a celebration of the School’s lasting impact and bright future. From laughter-filled conversations to shared reflections on tradition and progress, the event captured the heart of what it means to be part of the Trinity-Pawling community. View photos from the event here.
by Rebecca Smith
Trinity-Pawling School is more than just a workplace — it’s a community dedicated to shaping the future of young men. As a leading independent boys’ boarding school, we are committed to providing an educational experience that makes a transformational difference in the lives of our students. We strive to foster excellence, character, community, and curiosity, and we seek individuals who share these values.
If you are passionate about student-centered learning and helping young men discover their potential, we invite you to explore career opportunities at Trinity-Pawling. As part of our team, you will work in a dynamic, supportive environment, collaborate with inspiring colleagues, and contribute to a school with a strong tradition and a bold vision for the future.
Join Trinity-Pawling and be a part of a school that values innovation, tradition, and the power of mentorship. Make a difference in the lives of our students — apply today!