{"id":4738,"date":"2022-10-27T16:21:12","date_gmt":"2022-10-27T16:21:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trinitypawlingthequad.org\/?page_id=4738"},"modified":"2022-10-27T16:21:37","modified_gmt":"2022-10-27T16:21:37","slug":"october-2022","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/trinitypawlingthequad.org\/?page_id=4738","title":{"rendered":"October 2022"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\t\t\n\t\t
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\n MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
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As a high school junior, I learned American history from Mr. Hougas, a teacher whose career was defined by a love of history and the depth of relationships he was able to forge with his students. Mr. Hougas had a profound impact on me as a student and as a teacher.<\/p>\n

Mr. Hougas was passionate about history. Often, he would grow emotional about the topic at hand. I remember him chastising the Daughters of the American Revolution for refusing to allow Marion Anderson to sing on the steps of the U.S. Capitol in the early 1930s. I clearly recall his eyes welling up with tears when he taught us about the Armenian Genocide of 1915. I can still hear the disappointment in his voice as he described the failure of Woodrow Wilson\u2019s peace efforts to gain the approval of the U.S. Congress after World War I. For Mr. Hougas, The textbook was a reference, not the foundation of his teaching. This foundation, rather, was his deep knowledge of history that stemmed from his passion for the subject. This foundation, more importantly, was complemented equally by his desire to share this passion with young people.<\/p>\n

As a teacher, Mr. Hougas was effective and successful because he conveyed his passion for history through the relationships he forged with his students. He connected with his students, albeit some more deeply than others. On the whole, however, his classes were ones in which the students were engaged and connected to him and to one another. We were connected because he took the time and cared enough to nurture his relationships with us by getting to know what motivated each of us. We were also connected to him because he was a demanding teacher, one who was challenging because he wanted us to succeed rather than settle for mediocrity or the hollow acceptance of a good grade that was bereft of solid learning. Through the high expectations he had for his students, he made it clear that achievement was a process and that potential was ours to own. As a result, I began to recognize the potential he saw in me.<\/p>\n

Whatever our area of expertise or responsibility, teachers at Trinity-Pawling are called to convey our passion for teaching through the relationships we forge and nurture with our students. In our work with young men, we have the responsibility to teach them that achievement is a process and potential is theirs to own. We are called to help our students cherish success and abhor mediocrity as we model this in our own work. We are called to ensure that we and our students understand that achievement bereft of learning is a weak foundation upon which to build and an unfulfilling way to move forward in life.<\/p>\n

Such a call can be challenging as it takes time, effort, humility, and commitment to nurturing these relationships. This call, however, is a tremendous opportunity for it beckons us to be better teachers and it leads us to advance a school that will be stronger tomorrow than it is today. Finally, this call can be a gift and a reward for it allows us to reach the young men whom we teach \u2014 challenging them to work toward the fullness of their potential and leading them toward a deeper appreciation of their gifts and talents as students and children of God. As our work continues into the academic year, this call remains a bar toward which all educators at Trinity-Pawling must aspire as we help prepare the boys whom we teach to be leaders and young men of honor.<\/p>\n

by William W. Taylor<\/em><\/p>\n <\/div>\n

A PERSPECTIVE ON TEACHING AT TRINITY-PAWLING<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\n SUZANNE NAJMAN HONORED<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
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Chair of the Science Department Suzanne Najman was named the 2022 recipient of the Arditti Award during the course of the Parents’ Weekend celebrations. This endowed fellowship honors a member of our faculty for excellence in teaching. The award was established in 1995 by Edward Arditti \u201951 and his son Ted \u201994 as a way to recognize one faculty member each year for their distinguished work and dedication. Faculty members nominate their peers each October, and Head of School Bill Taylor determines the recipient.<\/p>\n

In presenting the award, Taylor shared an excerpt from comments by fellow faculty members celebrating Najman: “Suzanne is a top-notch educator who exemplifies excellence in teaching. As a colleague, she is a great listener and shows great empathy for the ups and downs of being a teacher. She puts a priority on being “in-tune” with her students’ needs, emotions, and abilities. Suzanne is a valuable asset to Trinity-Pawling in her ability to teach in multiple areas and at all levels, but also her outstanding commitment, enthusiasm, and engagement beyond the classroom.”<\/p>\n

Najman joined Trinity-Pawling in 2019. She graduated from Lafayette College with a degree in chemical engineering. In addition to overseeing the Science Department, Najman coaches soccer and tennis. She also orchestrates social activities for the students throughout the school year. Najman pitches in with the campus farm during the summer, and she plays the organ for occasional services in All Saints’ Chapel. It is no wonder this multi-talented faculty member has earned the deep respect of her peers and students alike.<\/p>\n

\u201cI am very honored to receive this award, especially since I was nominated by my colleagues and administrators,\u201d Najman responds. \u201cGenerally, I try to fly under the radar, but I was taught to just take care of things I saw that needed to be done or fixed.\u201d<\/p>\n

Congratulations on a well-deserved honor, and thank you for all that you do to enrich our community!<\/p>\n

by Maria Buteux Reade<\/em><\/p>\n <\/div>\n

EDWARD A. ARDITTI \u201951 AWARD FOR FACULTY EXCELLLENCE<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\n IGNITE AN INTEREST<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
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With nearly 50 clubs and co-curricular activities offered on campus, there\u2019s something for everyone at Trinity-Pawling. From Jazz Band to the Coffee and Tea Club, Model United Nations to the Woodworking Club, students have the opportunity to challenge themselves, learn new skills, and build lasting connections in the School community.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur wide array of clubs allows students to find something they love outside of the classroom,\u201d began Dutch Keel, Dean of Residential Life. \u201cWhether it\u2019s a hobby they already enjoy and wish to share with others, or a new curiosity or interest, they have the freedom to explore it here on campus.\u201d Better yet, if a student has a passion or interest that is not reflected in the existing selection of clubs, he can start his own \u2014 all he needs is a topic and a faculty advisor. \u201cAbout half of the clubs we offer now were started at some point by a student. It\u2019s a great reflection of our boys\u2019 wide variety of talents and interests, and their leadership and community-building skills.\u201d<\/p>\n

The 30 for 30 Club, for example, emerged from a student\u2019s specific interest in watching and discussing topics covered by 30 for 30 documentaries; the Future Health Professionals Club was created by a student interested in pursuing a career in the medical field; and the Chess Club was recently revived by a student wishing to develop his skills for the game and join in some friendly competition. The same goes for the Pottery Club, Futsal Club, Entrepreneurship Club, and Dog Walking Club. The list goes on!<\/p>\n

\u201cHigh school is a time for students to try new things. Particularly here at Trinity-Pawling, it\u2019s a great time for them to safely explore different interests and hobbies, discover what they love (and don\u2019t love), and meet others who share a common interest,\u201d concluded Keel. \u201cI believe that participating in different clubs and activities helps a student become more well-rounded, learn to manage his time, relate to others, and perhaps most importantly, become a better global citizen.\u201d<\/p>\n

Whatever students wish to explore or create, they\u2019ll find the inspiration to do it here at Trinity-Pawling. Be sure to visit our website<\/a> to learn more about our robust offering of clubs and activities.<\/p>\n

by Emma Quigley<\/em><\/p>\n

Photo: Members of the Coffee and Tea Club with advisor Frank Fritts<\/em><\/p>\n <\/div>\n

CLUBS AT TRINITY-PAWLING<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\n LEADING BY EXAMPLE<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
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Establishing trust. Setting a positive example. Building friendships. Doing the right thing. Helping others. It\u2019s all in a day\u2019s work for a dorm proctor at Trinity-Pawling!<\/p>\n

Proctors are upperclassmen leaders who help to oversee the day-to-day operation of a dorm. Appointed by the dorm parents and the Faculty Senior Leadership Committee each spring, students selected as proctors play an important role in Trinity-Pawling\u2019s residential life program. As leaders both in and out of the dorms, they set the tone for evening study hall and dorm responsibilities, offer extra help to younger students, facilitate weekly dorm clean-ups, and foster a fun and inclusive atmosphere across the nine dorms on campus.<\/p>\n

\u201cProctors also provide important peer-to-peer support,\u201d added Dean of Residential Life Dutch Keel. \u201cFrom homework to homesickness, they are a great resource for all students. Proctors help to plan different activities and outings for the residents, and build strong connections within the dorm. It\u2019s a meaningful and significant role on campus.\u201d<\/p>\n

This year, there are nearly 45 students serving as dorm proctors at Trinity-Pawling \u2014 a role they are honored to have.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe role of proctor is so important to the functionality of campus,\u201d shared Sean Wyman \u201924, a junior proctor in Starr. \u201cThe best part about being a proctor is when other students see me as someone they can trust and turn to when they need help.\u201d<\/p>\n

Luc Buchanan \u201923, a Cluett II proctor, also enjoys the mentorship aspect of the role. \u201cI find the most rewarding part of being a proctor is helping new students, whether it\u2019s a question about certain T-P traditions or how to tie a tie. I enjoy helping others, with the intention and hope that those who I have helped in the School community will pay it forward and help others in the future,\u201d Buchanan explained. \u201cIt\u2019s all about setting a good example and showing the underclassmen what it means to hold a leadership position on campus.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe most rewarding part of being a proctor would have to be the respect you earn when you do the right thing, the right way, right on time,\u201d echoed Max Camaj \u201923, a proctor in East. \u201cMaking sure that the dorm is taken care of and that the boys are all staying motivated to take care of the dorms is so important.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe are the leaders of our dorm and students look up to us. It\u2019s a great feeling to have that trust,\u201d shared Raphael Denis \u201923, a prefect and proctor in Cluett III. His best advice for rising student-leaders? That\u2019s an easy one. \u201cBe an example to your peers, be kind to your brothers, and be an active part of this great community.\u201d<\/p>\n

As proctors, students like Sean, Luc, Max, and Raphael help provide a safe, fun, and supportive home away from home for boarders at Trinity-Pawling. \u201cDorm proctors contribute a great deal to the School community,\u201d concluded Keel. \u201cThey help us provide every opportunity for students to succeed and feel supported during their time in the Pride.\u201d<\/p>\n

To all dorm proctors at Trinity-Pawling this year, we thank you for your continued leadership on campus!<\/p>\n

by Emma Quigley<\/em><\/p>\n <\/div>\n

DORM PROCTORS AT TRINITY-PAWLING<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\n NO ONE FIGHTS ALONE<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
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On the Saturday of Parents\u2019 Weekend, October 15, 2022, the Trinity-Pawling Pride hosted the Kent School Lions in a special charity football game under the lights on Coratti Field. Garrett Backus \u201923 organized the event as part of his Senior Independent Project with a goal to raise money for pediatric brain cancer research. His inspiration? His classmate and close friend, Matt Dooley \u201923.<\/p>\n

The night was a moving display of respect, compassion, and sportsmanship as the teams and fans honored the lives of Matt Dooley and Owen Trivell, both beloved members of our two school communities who recently lost their valiant battles with cancer.<\/p>\n

All proceeds from the event\u2019s t-shirt and concession stand sales \u2014 over $5,000! \u2014 have been donated to pediatric brain cancer research, a cause close to our hearts at Trinity-Pawling.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs a friend of Matt, I was honored to spread awareness and raise money for pediatric brain cancer, while also honoring our dear friends Matt and Owen,\u201d shared Backus. \u201cIn the future, I hope the student bodies at both schools will continue to honor their legacies.\u201d<\/p>\n

Trinity-Pawling is more than a school \u2014 we are a family. Thank you to everyone, near and far, who supported this special event. No one ever fights alone.<\/p>\n

by Emma Quigley<\/em><\/p>\n <\/div>\n

A SENIOR INDEPENDENT PROJECT SPOTLIGHT<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\n PRIDE ATHLETIC ROUNDUP<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
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The varsity football team had a tough start to the season losing their first two games by less than a touchdown. They faced another tough opponent in Taft during Homecoming week while battling through injuries to start the season 0-3. However, the Pride had their first win in a home game against Kent on Parents’ Weekend with Braden Root \u201923 finding the end zone twice. Kyle West \u201923 has taken over at quarterback and has done a wonderful job. More tough competition lies ahead in Loomis Chaffee and Avon Old Farms, but the boys continue to work hard and fight every week.<\/p>\n

Soccer had a hot start to the year jumping out to 2-0 and is having one of its best seasons in recent history. Goal scoring has come from Gabe Auringer \u201924 and Salvatore Zani \u201924, while Maddox Rivera \u201924 continues to be strong in net. After starting 2-0, they faced a run of good teams in Taft, Hotchkiss, and Avon Old Farms. Though the boys played well, they were unable to come out victorious. They took down Kent in their latest battle and look forward to finishing the season strong!<\/p>\n

The mountain biking team is having an impressive season so far. They have medaled in all their races and in most classes as well. Alex Kozin \u201923 continues to shine for the Pride with top finishes in the A class as well as a first-place finish at South Kent. At the Pride’s first home race, the boys had a great showing with Kozin coming in second in the A class and Hayden Desmond \u201923 finishing third in the B class. There were also three podiums in the C class with Sam Head \u201924 placing first, Luke Macanka \u201924 finishing second, and Emilio Paez \u201926 in third.<\/p>\n

Though the season isn\u2019t filled with victories, the Trinity-Pawling cross country team has included some young runners this year with 8th graders Oliver Denaro and Jack Fries running in the top 5 in the most recent race at Loomis Chaffee, a very impressive feat. Veterans Harry Clark \u201924 and Tyler Olsen \u201924 are having impressive seasons as well, finishing in the top 5 in some races. Some highlights for the Pride were at Berkshire, when Clark finished second and Olsen finished third. Fries also came in ninth place at that race, and at the most recent race at Loomis Chaffee, he was the third man while Denaro ran as the fifth.<\/p>\n

Be sure to follow the Trinity-Pawling Sports Nation<\/a> (TPSN) reports each week to keep up with the Pride athletes on campus!<\/p>\n

by Kyle Miller \u201918<\/em><\/p>\n <\/div>\n

ROLL PRIDE!<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\n 2022 HOMECOMING AND REUNION RECAP<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
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Reunion dinners, moments reconnecting with friends and classmates, dedications honoring community members, a panel discussion with notable alumni, the Distinguished Alumni Award Ceremony, the Athletic Hall of Fame Induction, and relaxing time spent around campus \u2013 seeing so many alumni back here together filled us with tremendous PRIDE.<\/p>\n

Thank you to everyone who helped make the 2022 Homecoming and Reunion Weekend so memorable!<\/p>\n

Early in the weekend, in a heartfelt ceremony, on the occasion of their 50th reunion, the Class of 1971 memorialized Pawling firefighter Nicholas Taska with the dedication of a pin oak tree planted on the south side of Cluett Hall. Taska sacrificed his life in the line of duty during the Cluett fire of 1969, protecting the Trinity-Pawling community and ensuring no people were left behind in the burning building. Members of the Taska family, the Pawling Fire Department, Head of School Bill Taylor, and the Trinity-Pawling community gathered with the Class of 1971 as their classmate Gregg Sanik \u201971 spoke of the tremendous impact Nicholas Taska had on their young lives and the importance of honoring Taska\u2019s legacy at the School. Watch the Dedication in Memory of Nicholas Taska here.<\/a><\/p>\n

Saturday kicked off with an Institutes for Active Learning and Career Panel. Alumni and students enjoyed a lively discussion with a panel of notable alumni who have discovered their calling in areas that correlate with our Institute themes \u2014 Citizenship, Entrepreneurship, Environmental Stewardship, and Leadership. Alumni panelists included Vermont House of Representatives member Jay Hooper \u201912, NFL Pittsburgh Steelers eight-year veteran and neurolinguistics master practitioner Chukky Okobi \u201996, a national leader in environmental conservation Allison Whipple Rockefeller \u201976, and business founder and art and history preservationist \u00a0Jim Bellis \u201972. Bellis is also a Trinity-Pawling School Trustee, serving on five trustee committees, among them the Beautification and Preservation Committee and the Building and Grounds Committee. Watch the panel discussion here.<\/a><\/p>\n

Always a highlight of the weekend, our community gathered in All Saints\u2019 Chapel for the Alumni Memorial Service and the Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony. Alton W. \u201cTerry\u2019\u2019 Ray \u201955, P\u201901, W. David Coughlin \u201956, and Joseph L. Rice Ill \u201950 were honored for their significant professional achievement and outstanding lifetime service to Trinity-Pawling School. Watch the Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony here.<\/a><\/p>\n

Honoring the memory of Tyler Mabon Benham \u201990 and his love of the outdoors, the Class of 1990 gathered with Tyler\u2019s family for the Dedication of the Benham Family Pond Terrace and Fire Pit. Located on the shore of the pond, this beautiful outdoor space allows all members of the Trinity-Pawling community to enjoy this special place here on campus. Following the dedication, retired Orvis executive Leigh Oliva \u201982 provided instruction in fly-fishing, sharing one of Tyler Mabon Benham\u2019s passions with those in attendance. View the Dedication of the Benham Family Pond Terrace and Fire Pit photo album here.<\/a><\/p>\n

Moving down to Smith Field House, the weekend continued with the Athletic Hall of Fame Induction, honoring Kevin McClatchy \u201981, Dan Rooney \u201981, and Chukky Okobi \u201996 for their outstanding athletic performances and exemplary contributions to their alma mater, career, and community.<\/p>\n

Following the exciting football and soccer competitions on Saturday afternoon, the weekend culminated with cocktails on the Smith Field House Terrace and special reunion dinners. The 50th Reunion Classes, 1971 and 1972, dined with the Head of School in Gamage House, while the 25th Reunion Classes, 1995, 1996, and 1997 enjoyed a meal in the Barone Dining Room in Scully Dining Hall along with many faculty who have been with Trinity-Pawling since their time as students.<\/p>\n

Thank you to everyone who came from near or far! For those of you who could not attend, we missed you and hope to see you soon. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for our 2023 Homecoming and Reunion Weekend on September 22-23, 2023!<\/p>\n

Check out the full 2022 Reunion and Homecoming Weekend photo gallery<\/a>!<\/p>\n <\/div>\n

THANK YOU!<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\n DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI HONORED<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
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Three alumni were honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award during the Alumni Memorial Service in the All Saints’ Chapel on Saturday, October 1. This award was developed to recognize an alumnus\u2019 outstanding lifetime service to Trinity-Pawling School. The recipient must be a member of the alumni community, have an established record of service to the School, and have demonstrated significant achievement in his or her chosen profession.<\/p>\n

Past recipients have included Miles Hubbard \u201957, Milnor \u201cDoc\u201d Morrison \u201937, John Ferguson \u201935, John Daniels \u201948, Peyton Pinkerton \u201949, Stretch Gardiner \u201940, David Crystal \u201957, Phil Haughey \u201953, Bill Scully \u201957, Tom Linacre \u201962, Joe Callo \u201948, Paul Miller \u201963, Al Rock \u201959, and Ken Weeman \u201959, among others. This year\u2019s recipients are Joe Rice III \u201950, Terry Ray \u201955, and David Coughlin \u201956. Unfortunately, Joe Rice was unable to attend the service.<\/p>\n

In his two years at Trinity-Pawling, Joe Rice was an avid athlete playing football, hockey, basketball, and track. He wrote for the T-P Times and was sports editor for the yearbook. Joe served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps for three years following his graduation from Williams College in 1954. He then earned his law degree from Harvard and spent six years as a lawyer before turning to investment banking and management for the duration of his career. He founded Clayton, Dubilier, and Rice, one of the oldest private equity firms in the world. Rice retired in 2013.<\/p>\n

Terry Ray acknowledges that he arrived as a freshman from Framingham, Massachusetts in need of direction. He found his path by embracing the myriad opportunities the School offered, from athletics to numerous clubs. \u201cTrinity-Pawling gave me focus, taught me how to use \u2018sir\u2019 and \u2018ma\u2019am,\u2019 and showed me it was okay to succeed and to make mistakes.\u201d After earning his degree in civil engineering from the University of Michigan in 1968, Ray launched into a career in offshore engineering projects in Brazil, Dubai, and Angola. Despite living and traveling internationally, Ray found time to participate in alumni events and to serve as a trustee from 1998 to 2022. Ray\u2019s son, Sean, graduated from Trinity-Pawling in 2001. Ray hopes Sean\u2019s son Tucker will be a member of the Class of 2030.<\/p>\n

\u201cI feel blessed to have jobs I love, a strong family, and the ability to give back to the School however I can,\u201d Ray shared from the pulpit. \u201cI was a scholarship student, and I want to provide that same opportunity for other boys.\u201d<\/p>\n

David Coughlin\u2019s love for and service to the School runs deep, serving as Head Prefect and Class Agent and subsequently as a trustee from 1988 to the present. \u201cMy family has a long legacy with the School, dating back to my uncles and father who graduated respectively in 1917, 1921, and 1923. My brother Terry graduated five years ahead of me in 1952.\u201d After graduating from Williams, Coughlin dedicated 42 years as a mathematics teacher and legendary coach at Hotchkiss, from 1961 until 2003.<\/p>\n

Balancing academics with athletics requires self-discipline and character, a skill Coughlin not only mastered but bestowed upon his students. He described his belief as this: \u201cThe duration of an athletic contest is only a few minutes while the training for it may take many weeks of arduous work and continuous exercise of self-effort. The real value of sport is not the actual game played in the limelight of applause, but the hours of dogged determination and self-discipline carried out alone, imposed and supervised by an exacting conscience. The applause soon dies away, the prize is left behind. But the character you build up is yours forever.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTrinity-Pawling helped me build my own character,\u201d the wise school master reflected, \u201cand the School continues to provide opportunities that promote growth and challenges that build character in the students today.\u201d<\/p>\n

We thank all three men for their commitment to the School and service to their own careers.<\/p>\n

by Maria Buteux Reade<\/em><\/p>\n <\/div>\n

DAVID COUGHLIN \u201956, TERRY RAY \u201955, JOE RICE III \u201950<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\n DEDICATION IN MEMORY OF NICHOLAS TASKA<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
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Good evening to Nicholas Taska’s daughter Francine Burden, the rest of the Taska family in attendance today, members of the Pawling Fire Department, Pawling community members, Trinity-Pawling family, classmates of 1971, and friends.<\/p>\n

The evolution of Nicholas Taska for a 15-year-old boy.<\/p>\n

February 5, 1969.<\/p>\n

My name is Gregg Sanik and, on that day, I was that 15-year-old, first-year student at Trinity-Pawling School \u2014 unsure of why I was away from home for the first time in my life, and far less mature than my age might lead one to believe. Our coach of the third hockey team paused practice to inform us that there were reports of smoke in Cluett Hall and that the fire department was on the scene, but nobody would be allowed into the building, so we continued with our practice. Walking up the driveway afterward, it became abundantly clear that it was much more than \u201creports of smoke\u201d \u2014 there were flames storming from numerous windows of the south wing of Cluett (including my room on the second floor), huge flumes of thick white smoke billowed from the roof, and a wall of hundreds of flashing red lights covered the foreground, adding an eerie hue to the orange flames against the black outline of the building. This was serious.<\/p>\n

After being escorted to relative safety, I was later informed that I had lost everything I own. My father arrived after making the three-hour drive from Oneonta, New York to pick me up and take me home. Looking up from Route 22 as we drove away, it was still a very active fire scene \u2014 I was naively fixated upon the fact that all that I owned were the clothes that I was wearing. It was not until three days later, when I returned to campus, that I began to understand that \u201clost things can be replaced,\u201d when I learned that a firefighter had heroically perished trying to quell the blaze and save the rest of Cluett Hall. After all, there was no such thing as \u201cinstant information,\u201d CNN, or cell phones in 1969. I can clearly remember losing my breath, stunned when hearing the news that a man had died.<\/p>\n

My classmates of Cluett South were all relocated to various locations. Some tripled up with other students throughout campus, one fellow second-floor resident and lifelong friend Richard Henderson, who has served as our Class Agent with distinction for 35 years and has been the driving force for this dedication today, moved into the Headmaster’s home. I was truly fortunate to be the recipient of the generosity of Mrs. Virginia Scott on Circle Drive in town, the mother of my good friend at T-P, Billy Scott, who I would grow to consider my brother. Much like losing all of our possessions, the inconvenience of relocation paled in comparison to the fact that a man had lost his life.<\/p>\n

Trying to come to grips with a death for the first time, I inquired as to his name hoping to make some sense of it all \u2014 Nicholas Taska. It seemed that the best that I could do was to compartmentalize it in some way and recognize the fact that tragedy is a risk that heroes face whether they are firefighters, police officers, or members of the armed forces. The ability to compartmentalize ultimately helped me later in life, during each of my son\u2019s five deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan as a combat helicopter pilot. The growth of the immature 15-year-old boy had begun as the passing of a human being, Mr. Taska, far outweighed the loss of all of my belongings \u2014\u201cthings\u201d can be replaced, a human life cannot be \u2014 especially to the family of Nicholas Taska.<\/p>\n

Thus began the incremental evolution of Nicholas Taska in my life, and today is, quite simply, just the latest of a long chain of events \u2014 full circle, if you will \u2014 to the location of where it all began. When my father passed, I found myself grieving through the lens of the Taska family, affording me yet another layer of understanding as to the magnitude of the loss of Mr. Taska, through the eyes of one who looked up to a great man.<\/p>\n

From then on, with classmates at reunions and casual get-togethers off campus, whenever the topic of \u201cthe fire\u201d came up, it was no longer \u201ca firefighter\u201d or \u201ca fireman\u201d \u2014 it was \u201cMr. Taska.\u201d<\/p>\n

Since then, I have lost others; given many eulogies at funerals; and counseled numerous people through grieving during their time of loss. Almost always, I utilized skills and the understanding, which I gleaned through the passing of Nicholas Taska, and my subsequent growth and wisdom, which evolved.<\/p>\n

Throughout my professional career as a teacher, athletic coach, guidance counselor, principal, and school superintendent, I found myself both reflecting upon and sharing the lessons that I both learned and evolved to understand about the events of February 5, 1969. Most often, taking time to share Mr. Taska’s commitment, loyalty, sense of \u201cgiving to others,\u201d and the ultimate sacrifice which he gave \u2014 all teachable moments \u2014 sometimes sharing the lesson I learned about \u201cthings can be replaced,\u201d other times challenging young adults to emulate the values of \u201cthe man.\u201d<\/p>\n

In closing, I stand here before you today, along with close to twenty fellow members of the Class of 1971, as the latest version of that immature 15-year-old boy, having learned, grown, and most of all \u201cpassed forward\u201d for 50 years, the lessons learned from the loss of Nicholas Taska on February 5, 1969. By enlightening the next generation, I am confident that they will, in turn, pass those lessons on to generations to come, thereby insuring that the loss, and life, of Mr. Taska will have purpose forever and ever.<\/p>\n

Thank you, and from the Class of 1971 of Trinity-Pawling School, thank you:<\/p>\n

Daughter Francine Burden<\/p>\n

Grandchildren and their spouses Nicole Burden White, Ricardo White, Heather Burden Covell, and Michael Covell<\/p>\n

Great grandchildren Zachary Boone, Isabella Covell, Francesca Covell, Michael Covell Jr., and Gianna Covell<\/p>\n

Thank you all \u2014 for Nicholas Taska.<\/p>\n

by Gregg Sanik \u201971<\/em><\/p>\n <\/div>\n

GREGG SANICK \u201971 ADDRESS<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\n UPCOMING EVENTS<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
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Trinity-Pawling events create wonderful opportunities to stay connected with old friends, favorite teachers and coaches, and the extended Trinity-Pawling family. We look forward to seeing you throughout the country and here on campus as we gather together once again. Mark your calendar for these upcoming celebrations \u2014 you won’t want to miss the fun!<\/p>\n

Boston Holiday Reception
\n<\/strong>December 5, 2022
\n<\/strong>6:00-8:00 PM
\nHarvard Club of Boston \u2022 374 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston MA<\/p>\n

Hosted by Peggy and Phil Haughey \u201953<\/em><\/p>\n

RSVP: www.trinitypawling.org\/holidayreceptions<\/a><\/p>\n

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Candlelight Service for Parents and Community
\n<\/strong>December 11, 2022
\n<\/strong>5:00 PM
\nService at All Saints\u2019 Chapel followed by Reception at Gamage House<\/p>\n

Hosted by Head of School Bill Taylor and Jennifer Taylor<\/em><\/p>\n

RSVP: www.trinitypawling.org\/holidayreceptions<\/a><\/p>\n

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New York City Holiday Reception
\n<\/strong>December 12, 2022
\n<\/strong>6:30-8:30 PM
\nUnion Club of New York City \u2022 101 East 69th Street, New York, NY<\/p>\n

Hosted by Jean Doyen de Montaillou and Michael Kovner \u201958<\/em><\/p>\n

RSVP: www.trinitypawling.org\/holidayreceptions<\/a><\/p>\n

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Delray Beach, FL Reception and Golf Outing
\n<\/strong>March 21, 2023
\n<\/strong>10:45 AM Golf Outing: The Seagate Country Club \u2022 3600 Hamlet Drive, Delray Beach, FL
\n5:30-8:00 PM Reception: 1202 Southways Street, Delray Beach, FL<\/p>\n

Hosted by Andy and Paul Miller \u201963, P\u201992<\/em><\/p>\n

RSVP: www.trinitypawling.org\/springreceptions<\/a><\/p>\n

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Washington, D.C. Reception
\n<\/strong>April 25, 2023
\n<\/strong>6:00-8:00 PM
\nThe Metropolitan Club, 1700 H Street NW, Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n

Hosted by Kathryn and Ken Weeman \u201959, P\u201991<\/em><\/p>\n

RSVP: www.trinitypawling.org\/springreceptions<\/a><\/p>\n

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To receive details about forthcoming events, make sure you are on our mailing list. Please visit trinitypawling.org\/alumni\/update<\/a> to submit your updated contact information. Questions? Reach out to Advancement Coordinator Jenna Jonke at 845-855-4886 or jjonke@trinitypawling.org<\/a><\/p>\n

All events are subject to change.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/div>\n

SAVE THE DATES!<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\n \"Pride <\/div>\n \n
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\n JOIN THE CONVERSATION<\/a>\n <\/h2>\n\n
\n Read More<\/a> »<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
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Pride Perspectives<\/strong> is a series of interactive webinars featuring members of the Trinity-Pawling community. The series keeps the School community connected and informed and highlights the many advantages of a Trinity-Pawling education.<\/p>\n

Join Head of School Bill Taylor along with Trinity-Pawling faculty and students, as the Pride Perspectives series continues throughout this year.<\/p>\n

As alumni and parents, you understand the value of a Trinity-Pawling education best. If you know a boy who would benefit from this experience, please spread the word and share these links so others will discover all that Trinity-Pawling has to offer!<\/p>\n

Upcoming webinars:<\/p>\n

November 8, 2022 \u2014\u00a0 <\/b>7:00 PM (EST)<\/b>\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n

Educating Boys \u2014 The Institutes for Active Learning<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

During Saturday Programming each week, instead of classes, all students participate in dynamic, hands-on learning experiences that are focused on one of the four Institutes for Active Learning: Leadership, Citizenship, Entrepreneurship, and Environmental Stewardship. The activities based on these four cornerstones propel the development of other critical skills for 21st-century learners, including communication, collaboration, creativity, character building, critical thinking, service, and self-awareness. Together, they hold the key to the future of boys\u2019 education. Register on Zoom.<\/a><\/p>\n

November 29, 2022 \u2014 <\/b>7:00 PM (EST)<\/b><\/p>\n

Educating Boys \u2014 The Center for Learning Achievement (CLA)<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Everyone learns differently \u2014 we are experts at leading the way. Every year, students with learning differences graduate from Trinity-Pawling prepared for college. A national model for teaching and learning, the Center for Learning Achievement (CLA) at Trinity-Pawling School gives students strategic support and proven skills that lead to academic independence and intellectual empowerment. We recognize the potential in each one of our students and help them achieve their academic goals, renew their confidence, and plan for their futures. In this webinar, you’ll learn more about the dedicated team of teachers and the nurturing, yet challenging <\/span>learning environment that provides students with the tools they need to process <\/span>and retain information, unlocking their innate intelligence and curiosity. Register on Zoom.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

We look forward to connecting with you!<\/p>\n

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Watch the full recordings of recent Pride Perspectives webinars here:<\/p>\n

The Importance of Educating Boys – October 18, 2022<\/a><\/p>\n

Educating Boys: The Practicum for Civic Leadership – October 27, 2022<\/a><\/p>\n <\/div>\n

SPREAD THE WORD<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-full.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4738","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"wps_subtitle":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/trinitypawlingthequad.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4738","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/trinitypawlingthequad.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/trinitypawlingthequad.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trinitypawlingthequad.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trinitypawlingthequad.org\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=4738"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/trinitypawlingthequad.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4738\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4742,"href":"https:\/\/trinitypawlingthequad.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4738\/revisions\/4742"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/trinitypawlingthequad.org\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=4738"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}