A colleague once came back from a conference and announced that he had learned from a presentation that you were either a “do-er” or a “be-er” and that it was important to figure out which one you were. Our society places great value in “doing,” and it can be tempting to juxtapose the image and goal of productivity against a sedentary image of “being.” This is not only a mistake, but it is an unhealthy message to send, particularly to young people. Self-awareness and appreciation for life itself are the essence of “being” and give meaning, direction, and fulfillment to anything that one does. And, what one does can positively or negatively impact one’s being. A person’s journey must include an awareness of the healthy dynamic of both “doing” and “being.” A thoughtful, caring school can be instrumental in this process for a young person on such a journey.
Clearly, there is a great deal of “doing” that goes on at Trinity-Pawling School. Teaching young people to value hard work and achievement is an important aspect of preparing them for college and for life. Helping our students learn how to define success in their achievement, though, is an inherent aspect of this process. The legendary basketball coach, John Wooden, challenged his players by saying, “Try your hardest in all ways and you are a success. Period. Do less than that and you have failed to one degree or another.” Praising and recognizing the importance of effort is integral to any focus on achievement. A work ethic that places focus on effort enhances resiliency and engages the role of “being” in the “doing.” By contrast, a work ethic that is focused entirely on outcome does little to prepare students for life’s inevitable setbacks. Effort, therefore, is integral to both “doing” and “being.”
I have been blessed to spend my career in two independent schools that dedicate a portion of the school day to worship. Spirituality is a key component of my “being.” As an educator, spirituality is also a key component to my understanding of enriched and effective teaching. While Trinity-Pawling School is dedicated to high academic achievement for each student, this dedication emanates from a commitment to each student’s growth in mind, body, and spirit. Its community is one dedicated toward mutual growth for students and faculty, imbued by a philosophy that affirms that each of its members is given dignity and self-worth by a loving God.
At Trinity-Pawling, a student’s “being” is an integral component of his “doing.” As educators, our goal is to ensure that the former gives meaning, direction, and fulfillment to the latter. The order of this relationship, moreover, is critically important. Too often, our society emphasizes that one’s “doing” should define one’s “being.” This message is particularly toxic for our children. Defining one’s self-worth based on grades, test scores, athletic prowess, or college acceptance letters places “doing” at the center of one’s “being.” It is essential that schools recognize that “doing” and “being” are different and that time is dedicated so that each student can work to strengthen their understanding of their “being.” Under the guidance of caring teachers, students have the opportunity to discover who they are as learners, citizens, friends, and human beings. In so doing, they can begin to explore the depths of the greatness that exists in each of them. Finding this greatness exists at the nexus between being and doing.
by William W. Taylor
Brayden Lahey ’24 is the embodiment of commitment at Trinity-Pawling, having dedicated himself to the School for four years of his education. Engaging in a plethora of activities, Lahey’s presence is felt across various spheres. Whether it’s his involvement in the Key Club, student life initiatives, or his prowess on the lacrosse, squash, and JV soccer teams, Lahey’s energy and enthusiasm are infectious.
However, his influence extends beyond the playing fields and clubs. As the Head Prefect, Lahey has the responsibility of overseeing all of the Prefects, guiding them whenever needed in their duties. With his leadership and dedication, Lahey is an integral part of the Trinity-Pawling community, leaving a lasting impact on both his peers and the School itself.
We had the opportunity to sit down with Lahey to discuss his experience at Trinity-Pawling and explore his aspirations for the remainder of his senior year.
How did you feel about being elected Head Prefect?
I never really thought about it that much, but later in my junior year it started to come up as a possibility and I realized that it was something that I could challenge myself with.
How has being a Prefect and role model changed you?
It has given me more leadership skills and experiences that I can take with me after I leave Trinity-Pawling. It has been a lot of fun to see all the different sides of the School — it has been challenging, but fun. Being a leader and a role model at Trinity-Pawling feels really good. Coming here as a young freshman, I had the same role models — for me, it was Peter Claro ’21 and Stuart Phillips ’21. So, being able to return that feels really good.
What is your favorite Trinity-Pawling tradition?
Definitely, Candlelight Service and the dinner afterward. It’s the happiest time of the year and it’s fun to see everyone together enjoying the time.
What do you hope always stays the same at Trinity-Pawling?
Chapel, because I think having a place to meet in the morning is important; and family-style lunches, because it’s a great way to meet new people and unite the whole student body with faculty, especially those who you don’t get to see all the time.
What’s on your senior year bucket list?
To win the Founders League Championship for lacrosse, and to build relationships with more faculty members.
What is your favorite memory from your time at Trinity-Pawling?
My freshman year, the bus ride back from Avon after my first high school lacrosse win.
What are your future plans?
I will be going to Deerfield for a PG year and then to UVA. I am still undecided about what I will be studying.
How do you feel Trinity-Pawling prepared you for your next steps?
Trinity-Pawling has helped my social skills. I was able to meet new people and learn how to connect with them. I have also really developed my leadership skills this year — I have learned so much, especially being a prefect, that I can carry with me through life.
by Missy McCluskey
At Trinity-Pawling, we are dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging. With this vision in mind, we have created a dynamic series of Pride Perspective webinars where alumni can connect, share, and engage in meaningful storytelling. These conversations promise to broaden perspectives and reveal the common threads that bind us together as a community. At Trinity-Pawling, every story is valued. Whether it’s tales of triumph, moments of reflection, or lessons learned, our experiences serve as bridges, connecting us across time and distance.
If you missed our most recent Pride Perspectives webinar, Stories of Transformation: Alumni Showcase, watch here as Head of School Bill Taylor, Director of Advancement Engagement and Operations Tom Densford, and our esteemed alumni panel: Richard Bolding ’20, Jordi Jefferson ’17, Trustee Daniel Parker ’07, and Paul Rasimowicz ’16 share stories of transformation. Thank you gentlemen, for sharing your time and stories with us!
Parents, alumni, and friends recently gathered for Trinity-Pawling receptions at the elegant homes of Dick Bauer ’70 in Palm Beach, FL on March 19, 2024 and Polly and Michael Brandmeyer P’25 in New York City on April 11, 2024. These events not only provided a delightful opportunity to reconnect but also served as a platform for sharing cherished stories about Trinity-Pawling and celebrating the vibrancy of our community — the evenings epitomized the essence of community and excellence.
Polly Brandmeyer P’25, parent and trustee, delivered a poignant speech highlighting the superior and indispensable role of boys’ education at Trinity-Pawling in today’s society. Drawing from her own family’s experience, she eloquently underscored the transformative impact that Trinity-Pawling has had on her son’s life and their family as a whole. Here are some highlights from her captivating comments:
“We chose Trinity-Pawling because we wanted our son to learn how to be a confident man with moral grounding and the ability to discover and define himself before others had the chance and under the stewardship of both men and women. In elementary and middle school, my son’s teachers were predominantly women. In fact, 75% of teachers nationwide are women. Don’t get me wrong, I think all teachers are amazing, but I wanted a better gender balance for my son.
At Trinity-Pawling, my son has so many great examples of men as role models — as teachers, leaders, coaches, dads, and community members. I couldn’t be more proud of the young man my son has developed into thanks to Trinity-Pawling.
I joined the board because I care about boys’ education and I also care about the state of education more broadly. In January, the WSJ reported on why Americans have lost faith in college. One of the overarching themes in the article was how schools were failing to move nimbly and adjust to a rapidly changing labor market — that there is a misalignment between what schools are teaching and the actual skills kids need in today’s world.
I tip my hat to Bill Taylor and the leadership team at Trinity-Pawling for not only recognizing that the world has changed, but for getting ahead of it and redeveloping a curriculum for this modern era. To emphasize critical thinking, project-based learning, collaborative problem-solving and by setting up institutes to give boys a preview and sense for where their passions reside and where they might have impact in their calling — whether in leadership, environmental stewardship, entrepreneurship, or citizenship, Trinity-Pawling has done the hard work to figure out how best to prepare its students for this rapidly changing world.
The School has been a gift to my son. It has given him a place of belonging, encouraged him to be his best self in the classroom, on the field, and in the community. Thank you all for staying connected and for your support of this wonderful school.”
Further adding to the meaningful conversation, Head of School Bill Taylor gave a captivating update on the School’s ongoing progress, emphasizing the essential role that boys’ schools play in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. His insights resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the significance of Trinity-Pawling’s mission in providing a holistic and empowering education to young men.
Moreover, the reception in Palm Beach was complemented by an enjoyable golf outing at the esteemed Old Palm Golf Club, where friendly competition and camaraderie flourished.
In essence, these alumni gatherings were more than just social events — they were a testament to the rich history, enduring values, and promising future of Trinity-Pawling. They encapsulated the spirit of unity, excellence, and lifelong connections that define our School, leaving all who attended with cherished memories and a renewed sense of pride in being part of such a remarkable institution.
View photos of the Palm Beach Reception and Golf Outing and the New York City Reception via these links.
by Rebecca Smith
SAVE THE DATE!
SEPTEMBER 27-28, 2024
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!
REUNION EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Friday, September 27, 2024
• All-Class Reunion 18-Hole Golf Outing
• Alumni Hockey Game
• Honor Guard Reception for Classes of 1942-1974
• The Trinity-Pawling Experience Student Panel Presentation with Head of School Bill Taylor
• All-Alumni Welcome Reception
• 25th Reunion Dinner for the Class of 1999
Saturday, September 28, 2024
• The Center for Learning Achievement Celebrates 50 Years
• Distinguished Alumni Awards Honoring:
– Douglas E. Ebert ’64
– Brian Foster ’79
– Jean F. Webb IV ’54
• Alumni Memorial Service with the Trinitones
• Historical Retrospective Honoring the Classes of 1974 and 1999
• Arts Hall of Fame Ceremony Inducting:
– Stephen Hannock ’69
– William C. Shattuck, Jr. ’69
• Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony Inducting:
– David N. Coratti P’08
– Kevin W. Foster ’81
• Celebrate the Distinguished Careers of Amy and Brian Foster ’79 and Other Retirees
• Homecoming Football Game
• All-Alumni Farewell Reception
• 50th Reunion Dinner for the Class of 1974
• 60th Reunion Dinner for the Class of 1964
CELEBRATING CLASS YEARS ENDING IN 4s AND 9s!
While all alumni are invited back for Homecoming and Reunion Weekend, these classes are celebrating milestone reunions:
MILESTONE REUNIONS IN 2024:
2019 – 5th reunion
2014 – 10th reunion
2009 – 15th reunion
2004 – 20th reunion
1999 – 25th reunion
1994 – 30th reunion
1989 – 35th reunion
1984 – 40th reunion
1979 – 45th reunion
1974 – 50th reunion
1969 – 55th reunion
1964 – 60th reunion
1959 – 65th reunion
1954 – 70th reunion
1949 – 75th reunion
For more information and to register:
Visit: www.trinitypawling.org/reunion
Email: alumni@trinitypawling.org
Call: 845-855-4886
If you would like to serve on a reunion committee, please email alumni@trinitypawling.org.
Mother Nature has not been favorable for spring sports this year. With snowfall continuing into April and large amounts of rain, it has been challenging for the teams. With that said, the boys have kept up their spirits and the beginning of the season has certainly brought some excitement to campus and the spring athletes.
The baseball team has had some close games so far. While battling the elements, the team has been working hard indoors. The boys have been taking a lot of cuts in the cage and working on fundamentals. They dropped two 5-4 games against Avon and Taft, two formidable opponents. Their most recent games against Kent and Kingswood Oxford were postponed due to weather, but they were able to play Hotchkiss on Monday, April 15, and won 8-7. Gianni Fidanza ’25 has pitched well for the Pride in his outings this season. The bats continued to stay hot, including that of Brendan Devenney ’25, who had a double in the victory. On Wednesday, April 17, the Pride beat a talented Westminster team by a score of 3-1. Parker Levin ’24, Jack Konrad ’24, and Braydon Sturino ’25 all threw well on the mound for Trinity-Pawling. The Pride also made some great plays defensively, including a diving catch by Kurt Mauser ’24 and a great play in the 7th inning by shortstop Manny Carreras ’25.
The golf team’s first match was against South Kent School. The six boys competing in the match were Alex Villanuava ’26, Jack Hedges ’24, Kai Wilson ’26, Ethan Fehrenbaker ’24, Jackson Fahrbach ’24, and Liam Lefebvre ’25. Jack Hedges had the low score of the day with a 45, as the team came up just short, falling 220-236. Their next match is Saturday, April 20, at Berkshire.
The lacrosse team got off to a slow start but was able to bounce back with a home game against Kent. The team had some tough games against top opponents in Taft and Loomis Chaffee, but played well in both. The game against Taft was a one-goal game all the way to the end with the lead switching sides throughout the game. Their most recent game against Kent proved to be a bounce-back game as the team won handedly, 20-3, with Kean Pare ’24 and Brayden Lahey ’24 scoring multiple goals each. On Wednesday, the team traveled to Deerfield to take on the big green. Though the boys played well, they came up short, losing 14-9.
The track and field team opened up the season with a home meet against Canterbury and Millbrook. The team had many successful athletes across multiple events. In the 4×100 relay, Gabe Aringer ’23, Emeka Nwogugu ’23, Cameron George ’23, and Sam Bronfman ’23 won while Jackson Williams ’24 won both the 300 and 400 hurdle races. Aaron Muhikwa ’23 won the javelin and was second in the shot put. Some other noteworthy finishes were Dom Zani ’25 finishing 3rd in the 800 and Jack Fries ’26 finishing 3rd in the 1500. Jeremiah Caldwell ’25 was 3rd in both the shot put and discus. On Wednesday, April 17, the team traveled to Taft for a quad meet vs. Taft, Kingswood Oxford, and Brunswick. Nick Peragine ’25 was 3rd in the long jump, won the triple jump, and won the 110 hurdles. Emeka Nwogugu ’24 won the 100 and was second in the 200. The 4×400 relay team of Jaret Borsage ’24, Mikey Malachi ’26, Calvin Gong ’25, and Jackson Williams ’25 was second.
The tennis team’s first match of the year was played against Wooster Academy and the Pride came away with a 5-4 win. Later in the week, the team took on a tough Millbrook team and lost 6-3. Their most recent match was against Avon Old Farms this past weekend. Andy Matousek ’25 came back from the first set deficit to push his match to a third set. In doubles, Andy and AJ Halpy ’26 came back from 4-1 down to push it to 5-5. The next match for the squad will be held at Hotchkiss on Saturday, April 20.
by Kyle Miller ’18
Join your fellow alumni, parents, and friends to see Trinity-Pawling’s
GIFTS IN ACTION
April 25, 2024
At Trinity-Pawling School, your generosity is a catalyst for change, energizing our active learning environment and propelling our students toward success.
Your gift to the Trinity-Pawling Fund will:
● provide modern educational resources to prepare students for college and beyond.
● enhance our indoor and outdoor classrooms, creating hands-on learning experiences.
● fund professional development, ensuring our faculty are at the forefront of their expertise.
● buy the pucks, paintbrushes, guitars, golf clubs, and more our boys need to train, practice, and perform up to their potential.
● support mentors as they unleash the boys’ boundless energy in competition and collaboration.
● invest in financial aid to help our distinctive educational experience remain accessible to a diverse brotherhood of young men from varying socioeconomic backgrounds.
● And so much more!
Just announced: $175,000 MATCH!
To amplify your impact, for every dollar you donate now through the Giving Day, current and former members of our Board of Trustees will match your support dollar-for-dollar up to $175,000 with a gift to the School.
Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen our beloved School for future generations!
● Online: GIFTS IN ACTION
● Venmo: @TrinityPawlingSchool
● Phone: 845-855-4836
Can’t wait to join in? Give today! We will still count your gift towards the Giving Day.
Reconnect with the Trinity-Pawling community at these upcoming events!
Washington, D.C. Reception
May 16, 2024 | 6:00-8:00 PM
Metropolitan Club • 1700 H St. NW, Washington, D.C.
Hosted by Kathryn and Ken Weeman ’59, P’91
Register here!
Parents’ Weekend
October 11-12, 2024
Trinity-Pawling School
Boston Holiday Reception
December 2, 2024 | 6:00-8:00 PM
Harvard Club of Boston
Hosted by Peggy and Phil Haughey ’53
New York City Holiday Reception
December 9, 2024 | 6:00-8:00 PM
Union Club of New York City
Hosted by Jean Doyen de Montaillou and Michael Kovner ’58
Candlelight Service
December 15, 2024 | 5:00 PM
All Saints’ Chapel followed by Reception at Gamage House
Hosted by Head of School Bill Taylor and Jennifer Taylor
For event details and registration please visit trinitypawling.org/events. To receive details about upcoming events, please submit your updated contact information at trinitypawling.org/alumni/update.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Rebecca Smith, Manager of Community Relations and Events, at rsmith@trinitypawling.org or 845-855-4886.
Becoming a faculty member at Trinity-Pawling provides educators with the opportunity to deliver student-centered, innovative, and ambitious programs to a student body of 275 boys in grades 7-12/PG. The School offers a holistic educational experience to our students, in a close-knit community that fosters collaboration and camaraderie. Our educators serve as role models and mentors for our students and each other, in the classrooms, on the playing fields, and in all areas of student life at Trinity-Pawling.
We are currently looking for a dynamic teacher to join our Mathematics Department. The goal of the Mathematics Department at Trinity-Pawling is to educate students in the fundamental skills necessary for the study of mathematics, the physical and social sciences, and any subject that requires the use of logic, sequential reasoning, abstract thought, and problem solving.
To learn more about teaching at Trinity-Pawling, please visit our Career Page.