usm today fall 2014

86725 USMTodayFall2014.indd 1 86725 USMTodayFall2014.indd 1 11/4/14 3:26 PM11/4/14 3:26 PM

At University School of Milwaukee, members of the USM community adhere to the At University School of Milwaukee, members of the USM community adhere to the Common Trust and agree to relate to one another and the School with trust, honesty, Common Trust and agree to relate to one another and the School with trust, honesty, fairness, kindness, and the 2014-2015 tenet,fairness, kindness, and the 2014-2015 tenet,

respect.Our senior prefects shared what respect means to them in a series of speeches during Our senior prefects shared what respect means to them in a series of speeches during USM’s Opening Day Ceremony on August 27, and the tenet of respect will resonate USM’s Opening Day Ceremony on August 27, and the tenet of respect will resonate throughout the school year in assemblies and gatherings across all divisions.throughout the school year in assemblies and gatherings across all divisions.

But most importantly, the tenet will be reflected in how we treat one another throughout But most importantly, the tenet will be reflected in how we treat one another throughout the school year, as we display the core values and unity that make USM special.the school year, as we display the core values and unity that make USM special.


22Alumna Finds Success in Silicon Valley

39Announcing the Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame

16Music to Our Ears

0850 Years of USM

06Homecoming 2014

02 Head of School Message

04 Events Around Campus

14 Wright Distinguished Faculty Award Winners

18 Meet Eric Peters

20 Annual Giving: 50 Reasons to Give

28 In Memoriam

31 Class Notes

33 Academic Achievement

34 Preprimary Teachers Refi ne Approach Through Italy Trip

36 Bringing Ideas to the Table: Upper School Roundtables

38 Athletic Program Looks to Build Upon Success

40 A Look Back

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

03 Board of Trustees

24 Reunion Weekend

32 Parents’ Association

in this issue

USM TODAYUSM Today is published by University School of Milwaukeethree times per year. USM is an independent, coeducational,college preparatory day school for students from prekindergartenthrough grade 12. Our editorial staff has made every attempt to ensure the accuracy of information reported, and we apologize for any inadvertent errors that may have occurred.

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Tim EilbesDirector of Marketing and Communications

MANAGING EDITOR

Ryan CardarellaAssistant Director of Marketing and Communications

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Julie PiwowarczykAssociate Director of Marketing and Communications

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Maria StoneDirector of Development

Jennifer FlierlAssistant Director of Marketing and Communications

ART DIRECTION AND DESIGN

McDill Design

PHOTOGRAPHY

James Schnepf

Visual Image Photography

2014–2015 LEADERSHIP

HEAD OF SCHOOL

Laura Fuller

ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL

Gregg Bach

HEAD OF UPPER SCHOOL

Stuart Cushman

HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL

Pamela Nosbusch

HEAD OF LOWER SCHOOL

Kathy Choren

PRESIDENT, BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Richard Seesel

PRESIDENT, ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD

Tom Parker ’79

PRESIDENT, PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

Niven Kingwill

To change your address or unsubscribe from the USM Todaymailing list, please contact the USM Advancement Department at 414.540.3339 or [email protected].

At University School of Milwaukee, members of the USM community adhere to the Common Trust and agree to relate to one another and the School with trust, honesty, , fairness, kindness, and the 2014-2015 tenet,

Our senior prefects shared what respect means to them in a series of speeches during ng USM’s Opening Day Ceremony on August 27, and the tenet of respect will resonate throughout the school year in assemblies and gatherings across all divisions.

But most importantly, the tenet will be reflected in how we treat one another throughout hout the school year, as we display the core values and unity that make USM special.


HEAD OF SCHOOL LAURA FULLER

A YEAR OF CELEBRATION This school year is a

special one for University School of Milwaukee as we

come together to celebrate our 50th year as a school. As

we do so, we also honor the legacies of our predecessor

schools, Milwaukee Country Day School, Milwaukee

Downer Seminary, and Milwaukee University School.

As of Opening Day, we had 1,133 students enrolled—yet

another year of record enrollment—and we owe much of

our excellence as a school to the foundation provided

by our predecessor schools’ histories and successes.

We work hard to make sure our alumni continue to have

a special place in their hearts for their alma mater—

especially during this milestone anniversary year—and

also strive to ensure that alumni of our predecessor

schools feel a special connection to USM as well.

Throughout this year’s “50 Years of USM” celebration,

we will share the story of the coming together of our

predecessor schools in 1964, as well as the stories of

USM’s accomplishments over the past fi ve decades.

We will also look forward and dream, as we envision

the next 50 years and beyond, and think about ways to

continue to build on our well-established traditions of

academic excellence and community.

The feature story in this issue is about USM’s

predecessor schools and our fi rst 50 years as a school,

and this issue includes several inserts, including our

revised Mission Statement and Guiding Principles and a

12-month update on the implementation of our Strategic

Plan. These documents, and all of the work that went into

these processes, remind me of how we are continuing to

evolve as a school, and of just how important that is to

fulfi lling our mission of graduating young adults who are

prepared not only for college, but also for a life of purpose.

Also included in this issue is our 2013-2014 Annual

Advancement Report, which recognizes the support

of our many volunteers and donors who give so

generously of themselves. The work that we do would

not be possible without their gifts of time, talents, and

resources, so I encourage you to join me in offering

a heartfelt thank you to the many people who provide

support in so many ways to USM. We are fortunate to be

able to continually invest in our students and their futures.

We look forward to seeing you on campus and in

your communities this year, as we celebrate the past,

present, and future of this amazing school. Happy 50th

anniversary to all of us!

USM TODAY | FALL 20142


2014-2015 Board of Trustees

Board of TrusteesFront from left Sangeeta Khanna,

Tamora Martin, Frederick P. Stratton III ’92,

Edie Turnbull, Board of Trustees President

Richard J. Seesel, Head of School Laura J.

Fuller, Andrew A. Petzold, Marina Rosenberg,

and Jon Hopkins. Back from left Karen

Huffman, Patricia Juranitch, Dr. Patricia

Hoben, Sarah Zimmerman ’92, Erskine

Tucker Jr. ’79, R. David Fritz ’81, Stephen F.

Geimer ’78, Linda Mutschler, Gregory

Smith, and Parents’ Association President

Niven Kingwill. Not pictured Deanna Doerr,

Michael Grebe ’85, Stephen Guy, Charles

A. Mellowes ’87, Dr. William Pennington,

and Karin Werner.

USM Welcomes New Trustees

Gregory SmithOCCUPATION

Executive-in-Residence/

Lecturer, University of

Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Lubar School of Business;

Associate Curriculum

Director, American

Bankers Association;

Managing Partner,

Barnett Management

Advisors, LLC

BOARD COMMITTEES

Advancement and

Community Relations,

Finance, and Strategic

Innovation

Tamora MartinOCCUPATION

Partner, ASSAP

BOARD COMMITTEES

Auxiliary Revenue,

Facilities, and

Strategic Innovation

Karin WernerOCCUPATION

Director, Marquette

Legal Initiative for

Nonprofi t Corporations;

Adjunct Law Professor,

Marquette University

BOARD COMMITTEES

Advancement and

Community Relations,

Auxiliary Revenue,

and Facilities

Stephen GuyOCCUPATION

Managing Director,

Robert W. Baird and Co.

BOARD COMMITTEES

Athletics and Finance

Dr. Patricia HobenOCCUPATION

Founder and Head of

School, Carmen High

School of Science

and Technology

BOARD COMMITTEES

Advancement and

Community Relations

3


events around campus

OPENING DAY 2014In August, our seniors kicked off Opening Day festivities as they entered the Middle School Circle hand-in-hand with senior kindergarten students. The ceremony featured speeches from the 2015 class prefects on the Common Trust tenet of respect; Head of Middle School Pamela Nosbusch rang the ceremonial fi rst bell of the 2014-2015 school year (top left); and a ribbon-cutting ceremony to begin the year was held for our Middle School students at the 8th-grade stairs (top right).

The day was also marked by a series of proclamations (middle right) in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the formation of USM. In honor of the anniversary, August 27 was proclaimed University School of Milwaukee Day by the City of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County. Additionally, the State of Wisconsin issued a certifi cate of commendation recognizing the 50th anniversary of USM.

4 USM TODAY | FALL 2014


PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION BACK-TO-SCHOOL COFFEEThe USM Parents’ Association welcomed families to campus with a Back-to-School coffee following the Opening Day Ceremony. The coffee gave parents an opportunity to connect with one another and to learn more about how to get involved as volunteers with key Parents’ Association initiatives.

JUNIOR WILDCAT JAMBOREEUSM community members joined together in support of our Middle School during September’s Junior Wildcat Jamboree. This event showcased several of USM’s Middle School interscholastic sports teams, and attendees were treated to a series of snacks and festive activities near Willie’s Corner. They also took aim at several Middle School faculty members who braved the chilly morning to participate in the dunk tank.

5


SFollowing a week of Homecoming spirit dress days and

the traditional senior pep rally on Wednesday, Friday’s

All-School Pep Rally kicked off the weekend’s activities.

The All-School Pep Rally featured a rousing a cappella

performance by the Upper School Blazers; an ice bucket

challenge answered by Head of Lower School Kathy

Choren, Head of Middle School Pamela Nosbusch, and

Head of Upper School Stuart Cushman; an incredible fi re

twirling demonstration by Margaret BodalskiMargaret Bodalski ’15; and an

appearance by FOX6 sports anchor Tom Pipines, who

later covered the Homecoming football game. The Rally

was capped off by an impromptu dance competition

that pitted USM’s Willie the Wildcat against his mascot

friends Bango the Buck, Bernie Brewer, Roscoe from

the Milwaukee Admirals, and Gill from the Lakeshore

Chinooks. Willie fended off his fi erce competition and was

declared the dance-off champion by the students!

The Pep Rally was followed by the Homecoming BBQ,

held on a beautiful evening behind the Don Forti Stadium

bleachers, where several hundred Wildcat fans gathered

for food and fun prior to the Homecoming football game.

While the Wildcats fell to Brookfi eld Academy 34-13, the

atmosphere was electric.

The festivities continued on Saturday morning with the

Blue and Gold 3K Fun Run/Walk. Entrants of all ages took

part in the run/walk around USM’s scenic cross-country

trail. Our own Willie even joined in for the run! Our younger

Wildcats enjoyed carnival games and bounce houses at

Willie’s Fall Fun Fest in the Middle School Gymnasium.

Von Mansfi eldVon Mansfi eld ’78 spoke at

the Varsity Club Luncheon.

The University School of Milwaukee community gathered in celebration during Homecoming 2014 festivities.

Willie the Wildcat took on

other local mascots in a

dance-off competition at the

All-School Pep Rally.



gSEPTEMBER

18-20

USM went undefeated in three Upper School athletic

events on Saturday, as boys’ soccer defeated Living Word

Lutheran 4-0, volleyball swept Milwaukee Vincent 3-0, and

fi eld hockey routed Divine Savior Holy Angels 13-0 in the

Tessa NowakowskiTessa Nowakowski ’10 Memorial Field Hockey Game.

Former Badgers and Packers standout Von Mansfi eldVon Mansfi eld ’78

closed the Saturday morning festivities with a presentation

at the Varsity Club Luncheon in Mellowes Hall. The

weekend festivities concluded with the Upper School

Homecoming Dance on Saturday evening.

Head of Upper School Head of Upper School

Stuart Cushman conquers Stuart Cushman conquers

the ice bucket challenge.the ice bucket challenge.

7


In the fall of 1964, University School of Milwaukee

opened its doors, on two separate campuses, for

the fi rst time. The founding of USM was a result of

a merger of three highly respected independent

schools in Milwaukee: Milwaukee Country Day

School, Milwaukee Downer Seminary, and

Milwaukee University School. This represented

the fi rst successful merger of three independent

schools in the United States.

Five decades after that historic merger, the USM

community is excited to celebrate “50 Years of

USM.” Join us for a series of School highlights,

from the merger of three historic Milwaukee

independent schools through USM’s current

standing as the fi nest preprimary through

secondary school in the Milwaukee area and the

state of Wisconsin, and one of the top college

preparatory schools in the country.

8


9


University School of Milwaukee: Three Merge Into One

“It seems ridiculous to support three independent schools within

fi ve miles of each other.” - William C. Messinger, former USM

Board of Trustees’ President.

The merger of Milwaukee’s three prominent independent

schools had been discussed since the 1920s, but talks had

failed to gain any traction until the early 1960s, when economic

constraints and the academic and athletic potential of a unifi ed

school helped bring USM to fruition. In a letter from USM’s new

Board of Trustees, it was stated that the merger would “provide

a larger enrollment, greater breadth and depth of curriculum,

a strengthened faculty, and overall excellence as a result of

common leadership.”

While many people only know

USM as the unifi ed school that it

is today, the merger of 1964 was

not a smooth transition. All three

predecessor schools believed in

the superiority of their teachers,

students, and academic offerings,

and that competitive spirit was

identifi ed as the most serious

obstacle to the merger of the

schools. Athletic rivalries also

carried over following the merger,

as MUS and MCDS were fi erce

competitors. During the mid-1930s

the animosity was so strong that

the schools considered severing

their athletic relationship. However,

after some initial misgivings, the

leadership of School luminaries such as Ken Laird, Howard

Boese, and new headmaster F. Gardiner F. Bridge helped to

unify the School. John “J.S.” Stephens even referred to Bridge as

“USM’s Eisenhower who, like the former U.S. president, brought

together disparate factions of the School and gave it a unifi ed,

competent image for the Milwaukee community.” Athletic success

and a familiarity with discipline and tradition also helped to

smooth the transition.

Extracurricular Programs Emerge

Following the assimilation of the predecessor schools, USM

began to carve out its own unique identity. Extracurricular

activities thrived during the 1970s as the most popular of those

extracurricular offerings, USM’s arts and drama programs, both

took shape. The arrivals of Ernie Brusubardis in 1970 and Dale

Gutzman in 1972 helped bolster the programs and launched

several successful careers in the performing arts, including the

career of three-time Tony Award winning actor Mark Rylance

(Mark WatersMark Waters ’78). “There was always a lot of talent here (at USM),”

said Brusubardis. “You just needed to fi nd it and get the students

involved. There was a lot of positive energy within the program

at that time.” Together, Gutzman and Brusubardis collaborated

to produce a series of musicals and took students on the road

to places like Minneapolis, St. Louis, and Nashville, Tenn. to

perform at other independent schools throughout the Midwest.

“Our group grew from 32 students and only four boys when I

fi rst started, to nearly 100 participants,” Brusubardis added. “We

needed two buses to get to Nashville!”

Organizations such as Student

Affairs, Model United Nations,

and the food committee gave

students more control over their

academic environment, while

others refl ected specifi c student

interests. This control refl ected

the popular culture of the 1960s

and 1970s, as students began to

challenge tradition and push for

more freedom and independence

within their educational experience.

Athletic Program Thrives

The USM athletic program

excelled during the 1970s and

1980s, with the merger having strengthened what were already

rich traditions of success on the playing fi elds. USM won

conference championships in football and baseball, and earned

state championships in track and fi eld, boys soccer, cross

country, boys and girls tennis, and boys hockey.

The era also produced some decorated athletes. Von Mansfi eldVon Mansfi eld ’78

excelled as a three-sport athlete at USM before going on to play

for the Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers in the 1980s.

Lane MacDonaldLane MacDonald ’84 starred for USM’s football and hockey teams

before serving as captain of Harvard’s hockey team. MacDonald

also went on to play for the 1988 U.S. Olympic hockey team.

However, few programs in the state reached the level of Jim

Laing’s boys’ and girls’ tennis teams. After being named boys’

tennis head coach in 1964, Laing’s teams won 36 Midwest Classic

conference titles, 10 Wisconsin Independent School Athletic

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10


Association (WISAA) team titles and 24 WISAA state individual

titles. Laing also coached girls tennis, beginning in 1971, and won

41 WISAA state individual titles and 12 WISAA state team titles—an

all-time record.

“Coach Laing was an incredible role model who kept things in

perspective for us as players,” said Liz CyganiakLiz Cyganiak ’91 in USM Today

following Laing’s retirement in 2000. “He helped us on and off the

courts. He had energy, spirit, and a great sense of humor that he

shared with us during matches, practices, and on the team bus.”

That excellence still carries on at USM today, as the School was

named the 2013 Interscholastic Sports Program of Excellence,

won the Wisconsin Sports Network Cup, and earned distinction

as Boys’ Athletic Program of the Year, awarded by the Milwaukee

Journal Sentinel. USM is a perennial state power in boys hockey,

girls and boys tennis, and fi eld hockey.

“June Jog” completes campus consolidation as USM unites at River Hills campus

The consolidation of USM at its current River Hills campus had

been a goal for the USM Board of Trustees since the merger, but

plans to unify did not come together until the late 1970s. In 1978,

the Board approved a $6 million fund drive to support unifi cation,

but concerns over leaving the Whitefi sh Bay market and a desire

to increase the Endowment stalled progress on the plan. In

1983, a comprehensive plan to raise money for unifi cation and to

increase the Endowment was announced, and the North Campus

Development Fund raised nearly $11 million, the largest amount

of money ever raised in an independent day school building

campaign at that time.

After years of careful planning and consideration, the USM

campus fi nally united as one on June 8, 1985, as the South

Campus formally moved to the North Campus in River Hills

during an Olympic-style “June Jog” ceremony. The USM fl ag

was lowered for the last time at

the Whitefi sh Bay campus and passed to

prefects Michael GrebeMichael Grebe ’85 and Maria AcevedoMaria Acevedo ’85,

who led the four-and-one-half mile jog to River Hills, where the fl ag

was raised again. A day of festivities to mark the occasion followed,

as USM celebrated its standing as a singular, unifi ed school.

A Formula for Success

Lengthy streaks of success were not limited to the playing fi elds.

An unprecedented run of success in the Academic Decathlon

began in 1986, as USM won eight straight state championships

and emerged as a national power in the event. Following an

eighth-place fi nish in 1985 that represented USM’s fi rst foray into

the Academic Decathlon, USM came back with a vengeance in

1986. Fueled by their initial struggles, USM roared back with its

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fi rst championship,

and a streak

of consecutive

championships

lasted through

1994, when USM

was fi nally knocked off by

Rufus King High School. USM

fi nished as high as third overall nationally in

1988, and won back-to-back small school

national championships in 1992 and 1993.

The success of the program was attributed

to a strong work ethic on the part of USM

students, who balanced their academic and

athletic workloads with the demands of the

Decathlon, as well as exemplary coaching from

former faculty members John Horlivy, Carol

Drummond, Conrad Van Voorst, Brian Pack,

and Steve Bruemmer, among others.

“(Coaches) Brian Pack and Steve Bruemmer

were tremendous educators and even better

people. Their enthusiasm for the material, and

more importantly, the process of independent

learning, was contagious,” said Donald BaeDonald Bae ’88,

a member of the 1987 and 1988 state championship

teams. “This combination of rigor, enthusiasm,

generosity, and friendship was the foundation

for any success we may have had.”

USM Embraces Technology Behind AAT Campaign, New Website

In what was its fi rst capital campaign in more than ten years, USM

broke ground on a series of facility upgrades to enhance the arts,

athletics, and technology (AAT) in the spring of 1995. The old

Middle School gymnasium was converted into a new two-story

Arts center, featuring studios for visual arts, music, drama, dance,

band, and a new atrium. A new Middle School gymnasium was

built adjacent to the Upper School gym.

The fi rst computer network to provide school-wide Internet

access was introduced in 1996, beginning with 40 computers in

the Middle School and Upper School. Classrooms, libraries, and

other School computer labs were phased in later in that school

year. Shortly thereafter, USM also introduced its fi rst website,

which was launched in May of 1997 and included information on

admissions, curriculum, alumni/development, and items available

at the School Store, as USM stayed on the cutting edge of

emerging technology.

150 Years in Milwaukee

USM celebrated a historic milestone in 2002, as former

headmasters F. Gardiner F. Bridge, Robert Johnston, and

Harvey Sperling, along with then-Head of School Ward Ghory

joined students, parents, alumni, and current and former

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12

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faculty members in celebration of USM’s sesquicentennial,

marking 150 years since the opening of Milwaukee’s German-

English Academy.

The occasion was celebrated at the “Evening to Remember,”

sesquicentennial reception held at the Midwest Express

Center (now the Wisconsin Center). The reception featured a

performance by the USM String Orchestra, “150 Years” videos

produced by USM students, and the opportunity to dance

to the Ernie Brusubardis Band. Ahead of the celebration,

USM’s administrative hallway was transformed into “Heritage

Hall,” featuring a photo display that refl ected the School’s rich

history. Alumni volunteers organized and identifi ed photos

from the archives and selected and hung them throughout the

administrative wing.

USM Ushers In “Next Generation”

By the mid-2000s, USM had several identifi able facility needs.

After years of careful study and planning, the School launched

the Next Generation Campaign in March of 2005. The main

components of this dynamic campaign resulted in the Upper

School addition that now houses the multi-functional Mellowes

Hall and six state-of-the-art science laboratories, the USM Fitness

Center, and upgrades to the Polly and Henry Uihlein Ice Arena.

As construction began, School-wide curricular enhancements

were made to ensure an education in the sciences that was

second-to-none.

A second phase of the campaign began in 2009 and helped to

revitalize the Lower School and Middle School. The three-story

addition to the Lower School included additional classrooms to

house grades 2-4, a computer lab, world language classrooms,

offi ces for the Lower School guidance counselor and the Parents’

Association, additional tutoring and Learning Center space, and

the Marion and Verne Read Gymnasium. Phase II also included

a series of robust new additions for the Middle School, including

the Middle School Commons, a fl exible, multi-functional work

space for groups of students to congregate, work, and socialize.

A large study hall fully equipped with computers was also built

adjacent to the Commons for a private work area. The fi nal

Middle School component was the creation of a new Digital

Media Studio, where students were able to utilize the most

current Macintosh technology for an expanding array of fi ne arts

curriculum that included fi lmmaking, Web 2.0 tools, and digital art.

Addressing the outlined objectives to recruit, retain, and develop

the best faculty in the region; to update aging and dated facilities

and support program initiatives; and to increase the endowment

for School programs, scholarships, and fi nancial aid, USM’s Next

Generation Campaign was a great success that positioned the

School well for years to come.

USM Students Excel at International Science Fair

Perhaps not coincidentally, during this same time period several

USM students made their mark in the fi eld of science at the very

highest international level. The Intel International Science and

Engineering Fair (ISEF) is the world’s largest pre-college science

competition. Millions of students worldwide enter the competition

each year in local and school-sponsored science fairs, with the

winners advancing to regional and state fairs at which the best

earn the opportunity to attend the Intel ISEF.

USM is in the midst of an incredible run of success on the

international level, as the following 10 students have received

awards at the competition since 2003:

Laura JonesLaura Jones ’05, Joseph CrivelloJoseph Crivello ’06, Michael PizerMichael Pizer ’06, Cristina Cristina

CostantiniCostantini ’07, Spencer GreavesSpencer Greaves ’07, Anna ShimshakAnna Shimshak ’09, Meredith Meredith

MarksMarks ’11, Ashton WackymAshton Wackym ’12, Kern KhannaKern Khanna ’13, and Dominique Dominique

TlomakTlomak ’14.

Pizer earned an ISEF award during all four of his years in Upper

School, and took home the fi rst place prize in Physics in 2005. He

was also awarded the Intel Achievement Award, given to only 12 of

1,434 entered projects, at the fair. Thanks to the fi rst class facilities

and top-notch faculty guidance, USM scientists fi gure to continue

to perform well at the Intel ISEF for many future years.

A Strategic Plan for the Future

Today, USM continues to provide an excellent educational

experience to a diverse student body, preparing them for a

lifetime of success. Through its new Strategic Plan, USM aspires

to enhance existing academic programs for current and future

students, ensure its long-term fi nancial stability, strengthen

relationships both internally and externally, and earn the

reputation as a thought leader and resource for primary and

secondary education in the greater Milwaukee and national and

international communities.

This Strategic Plan represents a bold step forward for the School

and, combined with USM and its predecessor schools’ legacies

of excellence, will ensure vibrant success for the School that will

extend for another 50 years and beyond.

13


JANE KEILY

Preprimary Program and Lower School Physical Education

Teacher Jane Keily is a faculty member and department chair

who “quietly and expertly leads with a positive, collaborative spirit.”

Her departmental focus is on helping students “pursue a lifetime

of healthful physical activity.”

Working alongside longtime colleague, Preprimary Teacher

Margie Voss, Keily believes that physical education works in

tandem with academics and plays a critical role in the education

of the whole child. “The benefi ts of physical education can

affect both academic learning and physical activity patterns of

students. The healthy, physically active student is more likely to

be academically motivated, alert, and successful,” Keily said. “In

the preschool and primary years, active play may be positively

related to motor abilities and cognitive development.”

Keily is a model for the high standards of independent school

teaching—a hard-working, collaborative, creative expert whose

constant smile lets all of us know that she loves what she does

year after year.

KEVIN LINZMEIER

Lower School Learning Center Teacher Kevin Linzmeier is

recognized for his dedication to improving student outcomes and

providing crucial academic support to ensure the success of all

Lower School students.

Linzemeier’s collaborative work with his colleagues has been

instrumental in several important changes to the Lower School

curriculum. Presently, every teacher in senior kindergarten

through 4th grade has been trained in the Daily 5/CAFÉ

framework for reading.

“This framework gives students ample opportunity to practice

what they are learning and to build their reading and writing

stamina,” Linzmeier said. “The CAFÉ component of the reading

block consists of mini-lessons that reinforce strategies needed for

developing comprehension, accuracy, fl uency, and vocabulary.”

Linzmeier models leadership through the extension of self and

his dedication to his own learning that exemplifi es the highest

standards of independent school teaching.

Wright Award WinnersFrom left Lower School Learning

Center Teacher Kevin Linzmeier,

Upper School Math Teacher and

Department Chair Steve Bertucci,

Preprimary Program and Lower

School Physical Education Teacher

Jane Keily, Upper School English

Teacher and Department Chair

Elaine Griffi n, 7th-grade English

Teacher Hannah Reimer, and

Middle School Science Teacher

Kip Jacobs ’74.

USM’s Wright Family Distinguished Faculty Awards honor excellent teachers, who by virtue of expertise, dedication,

and extension of self, exemplify the highest standards of independent school teaching. These teachers serve as

mentors, as inspirations to colleagues and students, and as role models in the community. Since 1992, the Wright

Family Distinguished Faculty Award Fund has existed within USM’s Endowment, providing professional development

support to faculty thanks to the thoughtful generosity of the Wright family. The following faculty members (two per

division) are honored for their exemplary work as 2014 Wright Family Distinguished Faculty Award Recipients.

Six Earn Wright Family Distinguished Faculty Award Honors



KIP JACOBS ’74

Whether you need a garden planted, a workbench made for the

maker space, or a recycling program implemented throughout

the School, Middle School Science Teacher Kip JacobsKip Jacobs ’74 is

your man.

A lifelong learner, Jacobs is ready to jump in wherever he is

needed, and is never afraid to adapt and change.

“As a teacher you have to be willing to take risks and have your

fi nger on the pulse of what you teach,” Jacobs said. “Science is

always changing, and I feel that I need to be willing to change with

it. Not everything will work, but that’s OK. That is the basis of the

scientifi c method.”

Jacobs has also been eager to embrace new technology.

Using an array of new tools and devices, Jacobs has generated

electronic labs, utilized Google Docs for collaboration, and

sought new ways to incorporate the latest technology into

his curriculum.

Jacobs is a consummate professional who is respected by his

colleagues as well as his students and their parents. He is a high-

energy teacher who infl uences colleagues to grow professionally

and to uphold USM standards.

HANNAH REIMER

Transitioning from the corporate world to the realm of education,

Hannah Reimer has brought a tireless work ethic, creativity, talent,

and high expectations to her role as 7th-grade English teacher.

Reimer has always been inspired to move forward in her

profession, and her professional development record speaks

to that quest of continual improvement in order to best serve

her students.

“One of the things that drew me to USM was the emphasis on

professional development,” Reimer said. “There are a lot of

networks around the city, and I was able to build relationships

and connections that have benefi tted my curriculum. Those

connections are all thanks to professional development and

the wonderful support that we receive here.”

Reimer’s network of experts and artists has been instrumental

in building her unit on genocide, culminating in the memorial

project that her students work on during much of the second

semester each year. Students work closely with architects, artists,

and professors from the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design to

hone their projects, and then present their fi nal memorials to a

professional panel.

STEVE BERTUCCI

Upper School Math Teacher and Department Chair Steve Bertucci

is known as a passionate and fi ery supporter of his students and

the math department.

What is not as widely known is how often Bertucci gives of himself

freely, compassionately, and selfl essly. He is the ideal colleague.

He gives good and constructive feedback, fi ghts hard for his

department as a Chair, maintains an objective perspective in

regard to institutional prerogatives, and volunteers quickly to

take on extra work or manage diffi cult situations.

However, the most important reason that Bertucci is deserving of

this award is for his work with students. He is known for his ability

to help students make connections between the math concepts

he teaches and their real-world application.

“I try to mix in a little humor with the math to break up the lesson,

and fi nd a common chord that might resonate with them,”

Bertucci said.

In addition to those connections, Bertucci is always willing to

provide his students with extra help, working with many students

before and after school. It is an honor to recognize an educator

as dedicated to his students, and teaching, as Bertucci is.

ELAINE GRIFFIN

Upper School English Teacher and Department Chair Elaine

Griffi n is marked by her calm, quick wit, and devotion to her

students. She is a highly respected teacher whose students

look forward to class because of her special mastery at guiding

collaborative round-table discussions. In addition, Griffi n works

tirelessly to help students improve their writing skills.

“Students need to be shown what good writing looks like and how

effective arguments are structured,” Griffi n said. “In class, we

use a technique called ‘workshopping a paper’ in which student

drafts are examined and critiqued by the whole class.”

Griffi n is also willing to consider all perspectives and put herself

in her students’ shoes. She elected to take several Spanish

courses at USM in order to better understand the workload and

perspective of her students.

“Being a student means being vulnerable, and teachers often

forget that,” Griffi n said. “I’m much more empathetic having

been a student so recently.”

To learn more about the Charles F. Wright Technology

and Innovation in Teaching Awards, also given by USM,

visit www.usmk12.org/news.

15


Steve Johnson brings passion, experience to USM orchestra program



First-year orchestra teacher Steve Johnson believes

that music education nourishes a child’s growth and

development, and in his thirty years of experience

working with students across musical disciplines, he

has seen that impact fi rsthand. Research shows that

experiences in music education enhance student

learning by strengthening important cognitive functions,

including the ability to pay close attention and think

critically, and have also been linked to improving a child’s

physical and intellectual development. But he describes

an additional outcome of a quality music education.

“The sense of accomplishment that a student feels

after mastering a challenging passage is very rewarding

for the student,” Johnson said. “The pride that develops

is so important to a student’s sense of self.”

Johnson works with USM students in all three

divisions. He teaches Upper School and Middle School

Orchestra, and works in an after-school setting with two

orchestras in the Lower School—one for beginners, and

one for those with some experience.

“A great thing about leading an orchestra program

that works with students across grade-leveIs is that I

get to see the students develop and grow over time,

both as individuals and as musicians,” Johnson said.

Johnson’s own interest in music stems from growing

up in a musical family. As a child he played piano,

tuba, and later, violin. Another instrument of choice

is his voice. He is currently a member of Midwest

Vocal Express, an international award-winning male

a cappella chorus. His diverse interests and

experiences also include a marching band performance

in the Tournament of Roses’ Rose Parade—a career

highlight. Johnson served as assistant director for

the band.

“Music is my passion,” Johnson said. “I love sharing

that passion, both as a performer, as well as with

my students.”

A little inspiration is sometimes required. The

complexity involved in learning a musical instrument

and the time commitment required to master it can

be challenging.

Johnson encourages his students, telling them,

“You’ve got to learn to budget your time. That’s an

important life skill. But you’ve also got to give yourself

permission to fail. I always tell the students that

permission to fail leads to success. When you fi rst

start working on a piece, I’m giving you permission

to not do it correctly, so give yourself permission to

not do it correctly. But as you practice, you’ll work out

the bugs and you will be successful. That applies to

lots of things outside of music, too. So you see, music

builds skills that transfer to academics, athletics, and

life in general—whether you know it or not. I’m sneaky

like that!”

“Music is my passion,” Johnson said. “I love sharing that passion, both as a performer, as well as with my students.”

17


USM Welcomes New Director of Enrollment Management

When Eric Peters accepted his position as director of enrollment

and fi nancial aid at The Tatnall School, he told his head of

school he would only leave for one of two reasons: if he

was offered a head of school position at another school,

or if University School of Milwaukee came calling.

Peters answered that call this past summer when he was hired

as USM’s director of enrollment management. He comes to

USM with work experience that varies geographically, but has

always been focused on enrollment. He began his career

working in college admissions at three universities, but missed

the close daily contact with students. It was then that he made

the transition to independent schools by taking a position

as dean of admission and college counseling at Wayland

Academy in Wisconsin—his home state. He then transitioned

to a similar position at Tatnall in 2010, prior to joining USM.

When asked why he pursued a role with USM, Peters

responded that he came here for a few main reasons.

“First, I believe strongly in independent school education.

Second, being able to come back home to Wisconsin was a

major draw. Third, I get to work for one of the top independent

schools in the country.”

Working at USM is a real boon for Peters, both professionally

as well as personally. He enjoys the fact that his job is to

promote the best school in the state. Refl ecting on his new

position at USM, he recalls one of his favorite quotes from

the former head of the National Association of Independent

Schools, Pat Bassett: “Leadership: Why does the tyranny of

immediate demands overwhelm the imperative of addressing

the larger challenges the future demands?” Peters believes

that having a position that allows him to focus on sustainability

in enrollment—and ultimately the sustainability of quality

enrollment for future years—is what will lead USM to

continued success.

USM is also a place he feels he can plant roots. Peters’

wife, Shannon, was hired as a senior kindergarten assistant

teacher at the School, and their twin daughters, BellaBella ’28 and

MonicaMonica ’28, are in junior kindergarten. He and his family are

already feeling part of this welcoming community. They look

forward to the drive to campus each morning and are excited

to become even more involved in the School community and

its traditions for years to come.

“I see USM as a lifestyle, not just a job. I love this school and

relocated from Delaware to be here because I see this as a

‘forever school.’ I can’t say enough about how happy I am to

be here.”

Leadership: Why does the tyranny of immediate demands overwhelm the imperative of addressing the larger challenges the future demands?



Margy Stratton Norman ’84

Greg Smith

How has USM impacted our lives?This year, in celebration of “50 Years of USM,” and in preparation for the next 50 years

and beyond, University School of Milwaukee is focused on increasing contributions

through the Annual Giving Program to support USM’s mission. As the members of the

USM community consider their ongoing support of the School, we ask everyone to

consider: How has USM impacted your life?

Starting here with the co-chairs of the Annual Giving Program, Margy Stratton NormanMargy Stratton Norman ’84

and Greg Smith, we are learning that every person has his or her own reasons for

giving. What are your reasons for supporting our School?

2014-2015 Annual Giving CabinetMembers of the Annual Giving Cabinet are ambassadors of the School’s Annual Giving Program. These volunteer leaders work together to solicit support for the School from alumni, faculty, parents, grandparents, staff , parents of alumni, and friends. We are so grateful for their tremendous eff orts!

Co-ChairsGreg SmithMargy Stratton Norman ’84

Grandparent Division Co-ChairsCarol and Bob Puetz

Alumni Division Co-ChairsF.R. Dengel III ’83Natasha Misra ’04

Parent of Alumni Co-ChairsFred Geilfuss ’71 and Anne Hamilton

Faculty and Staff Division

Lower SchoolPatti Ptak

Middle SchoolAdam Moreno

Upper SchoolRebecca Schwartz

Administrative Staff Julie Piwowarczyk

“Since joining the USM community fi ve years ago, my wife and I have felt strongly about the Annual Giving Program, as it ensures that the exceptional educational experiences that our children have received so far will be available for them in the years to come, as well as for others.

“One of the most important aspects of the Annual Giving Program is the support it provides our dedicated faculty, whether through support for salaries or by providing the most innovative instructional tools. The Annual Giving Program also contributes

to our ability to maintain and upgrade our world-class facilities and build reserves for future maintenance and improvement needs.

“Margy and I want the USM community to recognize that any gift they can give is truly appreciated and makes a positive and immediate difference to the education

of our children.”

Greg Smith and his wife, Nancy, are the parents of CharlieCharlie ’17, LaurenLauren ’19, and HarrisonHarrison ’22.

Additionally, Smith is a new member of the USM Board of Trustees.

“After celebrating my 30th USM reunion this fall, I realized that still quite fresh in my mind are many academic and athletic memories from my years at USM. It is because of memories such as Mrs. Read reading “The Yearling,” to us on the rug in Lower School, visiting authors signing books to me at the Book Fair each year, and memorizing sonnets for Mrs. Hill—along with lessons learned from motivating coaches such as Mr. Bruemmer—that I cannot imagine my children learning anywhere else at this time in their lives.

“These fond memories are why my husband and I send our children to USM. Annual Giving supports the very types of experiences that inspired me and that foster lifelong intellectual curiosity. By serving in this role, I hope to help ensure that the students at USM come away from this great place with fond memories

and a deep love of learning.”

Margy Stratton NormanMargy Stratton Norman ’84 and her husband Greg Norman are the parents of EllieEllie ’19, MimiMimi ’21

and AnnieAnnie ’25. Active in the Parents’ Association for many years, Stratton Norman is currently

co-chairing the author visits for the PA.

19


www.usmk12.org/annualgiving | 414.540.3336

1. Exceptional education changes lives2. USM is your community 3. Develop tomorrow’s

leaders 4. To honor someone special 5. Pride in your alma mater 6. Passionate and inspiring teachers 7. Outstanding curriculum

8. Designate your gift 9. Gifts are vital to USM’s revenue 10. It feels good11. Celebrate students’ academic excellence 12. Fuel intellectual curiosity

13. Gifts are immediate and impactful 14. Empower our students 15. Spark curiosity16. Create vibrant student life 17. Rich fine arts experiences in all grades

18. It’s your way to give back 19. USM is a top college-preparatory school 20. Preparestudents for the future 21. Help fund a future Nobel Prize winner 22. Your employermatches your gifts 23. Innovative educational practices 24. Inspire School spirit 25. Incredible fi eld trips 26. Championship athletic achievements 27. Create a welcoming,inclusive environment 28. Children are our future 29. Enable alumni to live purposeful lives 30. Supplies for our little Picassos 31. Help set an Annual Giving Program record 32. USM science labs drive innovation 33. Exceptional extracurricular activities 34. Help write USM’s story for the next 50 years 35. Impactful student retreats36. Encourage a lifelong love of learning 37. Foster critical thinking in students38. Cause spontaneous smiles 39. Support hands-on experiential learning

40. Impact every student, teacher, and classroom 41. The Common Trust philosophy42. Changing the world begins here 43. Athletic opportunities for all students

44. Tuition alone doesn’t cover the cost of a USM education45. Make a difference 46. Make a worthwhile investment

47. Giving is contagious (and deductible) 48. Innovative technology 49. Help shape global citizens

50. USM has impacted your life



How has USM impacted your life?As members of our community—parents, alumni, grandparents, parents of alumni, faculty or staff members, or supportive friends—you understand and value USM’s tradition of academic excellence. During this milestone anniversary year, in honor of “50 Years of USM,” consider what you cherish the most about our School, and fi nd your own meaningful reason to join our community of donors.

While in the past we’ve asked for Annual Giving Program support throughout the year, our “50 Years of USM” effort will be featured from November 3 through December 31, 2014. Please consider making your gift today. Together, we can ensure USM’s continued success, both this year and for the next 50 years and beyond.

21


From delivering singing telegrams in college to delivering

marketing plans for Apple’s Steve Jobs, life has always been

about enthusiasm, hard work, and most importantly, a clear

vision for Liz AllenLiz Allen ’84.

“I’ve been lucky enough to work with some world-class

companies and brands,” Allen said. “I’ve noticed that I gravitate

towards creative opportunities and challenges that appreciate a

strong work ethic.”

Allen currently serves as the chief marketing offi cer for At

Home Group Inc., leading a rebranding effort for a series of home

décor superstores, and has an extensive background directing

marketing efforts for several high-profi le organizations.

After graduating from Butler University, Allen worked for ad

agencies in San Francisco and New York, servicing accounts for

Levi’s and Sprint, among other clients. She was then recruited for

the position of director of marketing at Boston Market, where she

managed fi ve agencies as the brand steward.

But it was upon her return to San Francisco in 1997 that Allen

received an opportunity of a lifetime, as she was hired to work

alongside Silicon Valley luminary Steve Jobs to help rebuild

Apple Computers worldwide.

“In my four years at Apple, we resurrected a company and

created ideas that I was really passionate about,” Allen said.

“During that time, I built an incredible 160-person team that

developed all facets of the worldwide marketing for Apple,

including the Apple stores, Apple.com, e-commerce, product

names, and packaging. It was all-consuming and amazing.”

After Apple, Allen ran marketing for LucasArts, the video game

arm of the George Lucas/Star Wars empire, and then moved to

executive roles with The Gap and Cost Plus World Market before

settling in with At Home.

The origin of much of Allen’s marketing savvy can be traced

back to the balance and scope of her educational experiences

at USM.

“I think USM was really great at providing a liberal arts

foundation and nurtured my creative and analytical abilities in

tandem,” Allen said. “There were so many opportunities available,

in and out of the classroom, to try new things and stretch my

interests and talents.”

Allen credits former Drama Director Dale Gutzman and former

Upper School Music Teacher Ernie Brusubardis for her ability

to create and execute a marketing campaign, much like a fi ne

arts performance.

“Being a lead marketer is much like directing a performance—

setting a vision, inspiring others, and bringing all the details

together to create something fabulous for your audience.”

In retrospect, Allen felt as though she could try and excel at

anything at USM, and credits the breadth of her academic and

extracurricular offerings as foundational to her future success.

“Overall, my School experience instilled a great work ethic

in me and encouraged me to always be curious and open to

learning. I don’t think you can ask for much more than that.”

To read an extended Q and A with Liz AllenLiz Allen ’84,

visit www.usmk12.org/alumniprofi les.

Creativity, Vision Spur SuccessLiz Allen ’84Liz Allen ’84

Liz Allen ’84



Charlie Wright Jr.Charlie Wright Jr. ’04 has taken an unusual path back home to

the Milwaukee area, transitioning from an English major living on

the east coast to his current role as sales and marketing manager

at Rheocast Co., a die casting facility.

The greater Milwaukee community, and University School of

Milwaukee, are glad that he did.

While studying English at Boston College, where he graduated

Cum Laude in 2008, Wright spent summers shoveling sand in

the brass foundry of his family’s business, the Fall River Group.

Wright was instantly hooked on the heat of the furnace and the

glowing molten brass, leading to his path from studying literature

to sales at Rheocast.

“An English degree might not seem like a natural fi t for

manufacturing, but it enables me to think critically when

analyzing business issues, and to think about how to tackle

production challenges in a logical way,” Wright said.

Wright has stayed connected with USM since graduation,

serving on the Alumni Association Board, making annual

giving calls, and attending local alumni events. He is active in

the greater Milwaukee community, as he serves on the Board

of Directors of Goodwill Industries and on the Development

Committee of the Milwaukee Public Museum. He also manages a

charity fund at the Greater Milwaukee Foundation.

“After graduating from college and moving back to Wisconsin, I

wanted to reconnect with the School,” Wright said. “I have great

memories growing up at USM, and I wanted to get involved to

help support the organization in its educational mission because

my experience was so positive.”

One of those local alumni events he attended was Reunion

Weekend 2014, where Wright reunited with his classmates from

the Class of 2004 to learn more about each individual’s journey

since they parted ways as seniors.

“One of USM’s greatest assets is the high quality of your

classmates,” Wright said prior to the Weekend’s events. “I’m really

looking forward to learning about the interesting and diverse

paths that my classmates have taken over the past 10 years. I’m

eager to hear about their accomplishments in life after School.”

Refl ecting on his time at USM, Wright most misses his

engagement with faculty members on a daily basis.

“I truly get nostalgic when I think about everything I learned

from my teachers, and how well-rounded their instruction was,”

Wright said. “Their passion and dedication stimulates excellence

not only in academics, but also in extracurricular activities.”

As the School celebrates “50 Years of USM,” Wright is excited

for the future here.

“The School looks very different today from when I graduated

in 2004. There are additions and renovations happening all over

the place,” Wright said. “It’s a very exciting time and I would like to

see the School continue to invest in its facilities, especially in its

creative spaces like the art studios and theater.”

Liz Allen ’84

Charlie Wright Jr. ’04

Charlie Wright Jr. ’04Charlie Wright Jr. ’04

Committed to Community, School, and Family Business

23


Reunion WeekendSeptember 18-20, 2014

For the fi rst time in over two decades, University School

of Milwaukee celebrated Reunion Weekend in September,

uniting with Homecoming to bring the entire USM

community together in honor of “50 Years of USM.”

Alumni enjoyed touring the School and taking Alumni enjoyed touring the School and taking

in several classes, including this one led by in several classes, including this one led by

former faculty member John “J.S.” Stephens former faculty member John “J.S.” Stephens

during Friday’s Back-to-School Day.during Friday’s Back-to-School Day.

MDS Class of 1964

MCD Class of 1964



Thursday and Friday EventsFestivities kicked off on Thursday with the annual Welcome Reception

at the Milwaukee Country Club, where USM and predecessor school

alumni enjoyed reconnecting and reminiscing with fellow classmates

and former teachers. Several milestone reunion classes held their

class parties to coincide with the reception, a lovely start to their

multi-day gatherings.

On Friday, USM welcomed alumni to campus to experience a day in

the life of a student. Alumni from the Class of 1964 and earlier enjoyed

the Classics Breakfast, at which Head of School Laura Fuller provided

an update about the School. The Breakfast was followed by campus

tours led by current students and faculty members. Alumni relished

the opportunity to engage in the classrooms and enjoyed connecting

with students and faculty. USM also welcomed retired faculty members

Mary “Peetie” Basson and John “J.S.” Stephens, who both led

engaging lessons in their areas of expertise with many of their

former students. Alumni then cheered alongside current students

during the All-School Homecoming Pep Rally.

To cap off the day’s events, alumni joined current USM families for

food, fun, and fellowship during the All-School BBQ prior to the

Homecoming football game.

Members of the MCD, MDS, and MUS Classes of 1959

Several milestone reunion classes gathered Several milestone reunion classes gathered

at Thursday evening’s Welcome Reception at Thursday evening’s Welcome Reception

at the Milwaukee Country Club. at the Milwaukee Country Club.

25


Alumni took in a series of USM Alumni took in a series of USM

Homecoming athletic events Homecoming athletic events

on Saturday morning, followed on Saturday morning, followed

by the Varsity Club Luncheon by the Varsity Club Luncheon

featuring Von Mansfi eld ’78 featuring Von Mansfi eld ’78

(third from left below).(third from left below).

The Class of 2004 and the Class of 1979 enjoyed

their individual class parties on Saturday evening.



Saturday EventsContinuing the festivities on Saturday morning, alumni had the

rare opportunity to enjoy a guided bus tour of Milwaukee Country

Day School, Milwaukee Downer Seminary, Milwaukee University

School, and the German English Academy. Led by Lower School

Art Teacher Bob Geniusz and Carolyn and John “J.S.” Stephens, the

tour included a trip through several downtown Milwaukee landmarks

and visits at the predecessor schools’ former locations.

On-campus events concluded on Saturday afternoon with former

Badgers and Packers standout Von Mansfi eldVon Mansfi eld ’78, who delivered an

engaging presentation at the Varsity Club Luncheon. The luncheon

also featured the announcement of the Varsity Club Athletic Hall

of Fame, with the fi rst class to be inducted at a special banquet on

June 6, 2015.

A special thanks goes out to the milestone reunion coordinators for

their efforts in planning and hosting their various class-organized

parties at homes and local venues throughout the remainder of the

weekend, where the celebrations continued.

USM appreciates all of the alumni who participated in the festivities.

Be sure to mark your calendar and plan to join us from September

24-27 for Reunion Weekend 2015!

Alumni enjoyed a guided bus tour of the former Alumni enjoyed a guided bus tour of the former

Milwaukee Country Day School, Milwaukee Milwaukee Country Day School, Milwaukee

Downer Seminary, and Milwaukee University Downer Seminary, and Milwaukee University

School campuses on Saturday morning School campuses on Saturday morning

(three photos at right).(three photos at right).

27


William L. Randall MUS’48

passed away peacefully on June 23,

2014 at the age of 83. Randall excelled

at tennis during his tenure at Milwaukee

University School and was awarded

“greatest contributor of the year” award

upon graduation. He later received

his bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth

College and a law degree from the

University of Michigan Law School before

serving as an attorney and banker for 37

years, retiring as president and chairman at U.S. Bank.

A lifelong advocate for public service, Randall was a founder and

fi rst president of the United Performing Arts Fund; chairman of the

Performing Arts Center and Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee;

a trustee of the Medical College of Wisconsin; a trustee and board

chairman of the Faye McBeath Foundation; and director of numerous

organizations, including Alverno College and Milwaukee Academy

of Science. At 35, Randall was the youngest president in the history

of the Rotary Club of Milwaukee, and was recognized with honorary

degrees from the Milwaukee School Of Engineering and the Medical

College of Wisconsin. Randall also founded USM’s Alumni Association

Board in 1964 and served as its fi rst president in 1964 and 1965. He

was recognized as the Alumnus of the Year in 1968, an annual award

that preceded the current Alumni Service Award.

Randall is survived by his wife of 59 years, Wendy Shea Randall Wendy Shea Randall

MDS’50; daughters Rebecca Randall (Paul Gigot) and Cynthia

Randall (Paul Albrecht); sons Kip (Karen) and Kevin (Lynn); a sister,

Judy Randall ThompsonJudy Randall Thompson MUS’51; and fi ve grandchildren.

Cindy Zautckespent a peaceful afternoon and evening

with the family she loved, and drew her last,

gentle breath on June 4, 2014.

Zautcke received her bachelor’s degree in

German and English from Luther College,

and earned her master’s in education

at Vanderbilt University. She displayed

an unwavering passion for education

that included work as a teacher, school

founder, classroom volunteer, and charter school advocate. Returning

to Milwaukee in 1990, she taught at-risk students at Grand Alternative

High School, and helped found El Puente High School. Zautcke

later lobbied for the state’s fi rst charter school law, and served as

a policy expert, resource, advocate, and leader for charter schools

in Milwaukee. Over the past 10 years, Zautcke became a parent,

committed volunteer, and leader at University School of Milwaukee,

where she recognized and helped support a community of gifted and

passionate teachers who shaped the lives of her children.

To honor her legacy and commitment to education, the Zautcke-

Ostermeyer family has established the Cindy Zautcke Memorial

Scholarship Fund at USM with the goal of supporting students from

the city of Milwaukee wishing to attend the School. The scholarship

will be awarded to a student from a low- to middle-income family that

demonstrates outstanding achievement in academics, character,

leadership, and community service.

Zautcke is survived by her husband of 29 years, Michael Ostermeyer;

children BillyBilly ’11, JohnJohn ’16, and LizLiz ’17; sister Katy Zautcke Thomas;

mother Ranae Zautcke Stavish, nieces, nephews, cousins, colleagues,

and countless friends.

Charles Spraguepassed away on June 22, 2014, at the age

of 64, at home surrounded by his loving

family and friends, after a brief but valiant

battle with esophageal cancer. As part

of his lifelong dedication to education,

Sprague served as a University School

of Milwaukee Trustee from 2002-2007,

holding positions on the Finance and

Development Committees of the Board.

He was also a member of both the School’s

Next Generation Campaign and Annual Giving Cabinets. Some of

his favorite memories included joining students at Lower School and

Middle School lunch tables, watching USM theater productions, and

following the USM boys’ hockey team to state. He believed in “History

Rules” and the benefi ts of a Harkness roundtable discussion.

Sprague was raised in Short Hills, N.J. and graduated from The Pingry

School in 1967 and Yale University in 1971. After a year of service in the

New Jersey National Guard, he matriculated to New York University,

where he earned joint JD-MBA degrees in 1976. He moved to the

Milwaukee area in 1994 to serve as general counsel and executive

vice president at Fiserv. He retired in February 2014. Sprague was

passionate about reading and learning and served on the Milwaukee

In Memoriam

USM wishes to acknowledge and celebrate the lives of our dearly departed

alumni and friends. We thank them for enriching our lives throughout their friendship.



Public Library’s Foundation Board since 2007. He was also a founding

member of the General Counsel Forum of Milwaukee.

He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Mary Hamilton Sprague,

beloved daughter Martha H. Sprague HeitmanMartha H. Sprague Heitman ’06, son-in-law Timothy Timothy

HeitmanHeitman ’06, and brother John Arthur Sprague.

Polly Haebler Van Dyke MDS’51

passed away on August 17, 2014 at the age

of 80.

Van Dyke was born in New Rochelle, N.Y.

in 1933, attended Milwaukee Downer

Seminary through 11th grade, and

graduated from the Masters School in

Dobbs Ferry, N.Y. in 1951. She attended

Connecticut College and later graduated

from Stanford University in 1955.

Van Dyke was a member of the University School of Milwaukee Board

of Trustees from 1968-1978 and served as president from 1973-1976.

She also served as a trustee on the Endowment Board and received

the Alumni Service Award in 1997.

Through their generosity over the years, Polly and her husband William William

MCD’49 established the William and Polly Van Dyke Scholarship Fund

and the William and Polly Van Dyke Endowment Fund, and were

members of the USM Heritage Society as a result of their deferred

gift commitment. Thanks to their thoughtful generosity, their Funds will

continue to support USM students and faculty in perpetuity.

Van Dyke was very active in the Milwaukee community, and served

on the Board of the Milwaukee Foundation; the Board of Directors

at Columbia Hospital and the Planned Parenthood Association of

Wisconsin; and the Board of Trustees at Carroll College. She was

also actively involved with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and

the Green Tree Garden Club.

Van Dyke was preceeded in death by her husband William and her

sister Ann Haebler FrantzAnn Haebler Frantz MDS’48. She is survived by her sister Ellen Ellen

Haebler SkoveHaebler Skove MDS’45; daughters Kathryn Van DykeKathryn Van Dyke ’75, Helen Van Helen Van

Dyke KingDyke King ’79, and Ellen Van Dyke HoltgersEllen Van Dyke Holtgers ’81; and many nieces,

nephews, grandchildren, and other relatives.

John Marshall “Jack” Olson ’67

passed away in Anchorage, Alaska on July

10, 2014 at the age of 65 after suffering a

stroke while traveling with his family. Olson

had a passion for English literature, which

he studied at Princeton University and later

at Oxford University. After earning his J.D.

at Yale Law School, Olson practiced in the

areas of Trusts & Estates and Securities

law at Whyte Hirschboeck and later at

Foley & Lardner, where he spent the bulk

of his career before retiring in 2011. He was known as a trusted and

respected advisor to clients, friends, and family.

Olson loved hunting, fi shing, and spending time with his grandchildren.

He served on the University School of Milwaukee Board of Trustees

from 1980-1985.

Olson is survived by his daughter Sarah Olson ZimmermanSarah Olson Zimmerman ’92 and

son JohnJohn ’95; brother MarkMark ’65; sister DoryDory ’70; and grandchildren Joe Joe

ZimmermanZimmerman ’22, Nate ZimmermanNate Zimmerman ’25, Hedda, Maya, and Sarah Olson.

Constance Pember Godfreydied peacefully at home on August 4, 2014

at the age of 84.

Born in Janesville, Wis., Godfrey was a

dedicated mother to her three sons. She

also was very active in the community and

served as a board member or volunteer

for the Old Indian Agency House, Henry

Francis duPont Winterthur Museum, the

Layton Art Collection, Kilbourn Town

House, the Milwaukee Art Museum, Gunston Hall, the Colonial Dames

of Wisconsin, the Junior League of Wisconsin, and the Woman’s Club

of Wisconsin, among other charitable causes.

Godfrey was preceded in death by her son PieterPieter ’77 and her husband

Dudley Godfrey, Jr. She is survived by her sons Dudley IIIDudley III ’74 and

Adam Adam ’80, and by her fi ve grandchildren Ella Ella ’18 (attended through

8th grade in 2014), Mercy Mercy ’20, Connor, Alyssa, and Ryan.

29


Updated as of October 20, 2014.

1930s

Florence Bruemmer MahnkeMUS’33August 11, 2014Milwaukee

Walter A. CarlsonMUS’35September 4, 2014Mequon, Wis.

Robert C. BrumderMCD’36October 3, 2014Hartland, Wis.

1940s

William F. Pabst Jr.MCD’42May 28, 2014Port Ludlow, Wash.

Margaret Gregory ReiterMDS’42August 15, 2014Mequon, Wis.

Betty Heinemann BurnsMUS’43May 15, 2014Milwaukee

Donald SimonsMUS’43May 10, 2014Stevens Point, Wis.

John H. SprouleMCD’45August 20, 2014Oconomowoc, Wis.

William L. GuerinMUS’47September 12, 2014Baraboo, Wis.

Thomas R. HendeeMUS’47August 12, 2014New York

Francis D. MurphyMCD’49November 23, 2013San Anselmo, Calif.

1950s

Arthur M. HewittMUS’51July 11, 2014Nashotah, Wis.

Kathyrn Dineen WristonMDS’56September 28, 2014New York

1960s

Jane Innes McGibbonMUS’63July 18, 2014New York

Stephen N. Inbusch’67July 5, 2014Spring, Texas

William K. McKibbage’69March 11, 2013Oakfi eld, Wis.

Van A. Smith’69July 14, 2014Shorewood, Wis.

1980s

Claire J. Ritchie’85August 31, 2014Chicago

FRIENDS

Peggie Hunkel BaumannMother of Tom BaumannTom Baumann ’72, Barbara BaumannBarbara Baumann ’73, and Tracey MooreTracey Moore ’71; Grandmother of Geordy BaumannGeordy Baumann ’04 and Teddy BaumannTeddy Baumann ’09September 19, 2014River Hills, Wis.

In Memoriam

USM wishes to acknowledge and celebrate the lives of our dearly departed

alumni and friends. We thank them for enriching our lives throughout their friendship.

Marion Chester Read MDS’37 passed away and joined her

beloved husband of 63 years Verne R. Read on October 21, 2014.

Additional coverage of her life and contributions to University School

of Milwaukee will appear in the Winter 2015 issue of USM Today.



40sALEXANDER L. ALEXANDER L. PATERNOTTEPATERNOTTEMCD’40enjoys playing bridge and reading, and

wants you to keep the USM news coming!

50sMARY POLLOCK MARY POLLOCK MUELLERMUELLER’59is newly remarried. She is sorry to be

unable to attend her 55th reunion in

Milwaukee. Her husband, Mike Boughton,

is a Caltech physicist who retired from

TRW. “Knowing what I didn’t learn from

Downer in the sciences, this will give ‘the

girls’ a laugh; I continue with art but now

read SCIENCE magazine! My new last

name is Mary Pollock Mueller Boughton.”

90sCURT THOMPSONCURT THOMPSON’94is living in Seattle and has recently changed

jobs. He was previously managing the

fi eld marketing of vitaminwater for many

years, but is now leading marketing

efforts for fi rst aid shot therapy. It’s a

small brand, but the company has big

ambitions of changing the way people

take their over-the-counter medication.

KATHRYNE MARTIN KATHRYNE MARTIN NELSONNELSON’99shared that “Last September, my

husband and I became owners and

directors of Camp Kamaji, a 100-year-old

residential summer camp for girls located

in Northern Minnesota. Kamaji is a home-

away-from-home for girls ages 7-15, and

even for many USM alums such as Julia Julia

Housiaux CaldwellHousiaux Caldwell ’99, Kathy Jacobs Kathy Jacobs

HousiauxHousiaux ’68, KK McGregor NeimannKK McGregor Neimann

’93, Jessica NashJessica Nash ’06 and me! Jason

and I are so excited to be the current

caretakers of such a special place with

so much wonderful history.”

00sJONATHAN R. LHOSTJONATHAN R. LHOST’00received his Ph.D. from the University

of Texas, and has accepted a teaching

position at Lawrence University beginning

in September. He covered the world, from

Abu Dhabi to Oregon, with applications and

will end up working 90 miles from home.

KATIE HINKLE AND KATIE HINKLE AND TOM BURKETOM BURKE’03were married in Milwaukee on Saturday,

August 16. Tom is a Ph.D candidate

in Cell and Molecular Biology at the

University of Chicago, and Katie will

be joining the Chicago offi ce of Sidley

Austin LLP as an associate attorney in

September. Many of their friends from the

Class of 2003 joined in their celebration!

STEPHANIE BLACKSTEPHANIE BLACK’08moved back to Milwaukee to pursue a

Master of Science in Human Nutrition

degree and become a registered dietitian.

The program is online through Eastern

Michigan University, and the internship

component is here in Milwaukee with

Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare.

IAN TONNERIAN TONNER’09

married Sarah Breunig on August 9 in

Southwestern Wisconsin. From left 2009

USM classmates Brianna BeckBrianna Beck, Andy ReadAndy Read,

John Luckey Jr.John Luckey Jr. (front), Syed MedhiSyed Medhi (behind),

Ian TonnerIan Tonner, Arjun SawhneyArjun Sawhney (front), Michael Michael

LuckeyLuckey (behind), Lauren FredrickLauren Fredrick, and

Lauren SeeselLauren Seesel. Ian is a process engineer

with Babcock and Wilcox-Megtec Systems,

and Sarah is an E-Commerce Digital

Media Specialist with ShopKo. Ian and

Sarah are both 2013 graduates of the

University of Wisconsin-Madison and

reside in DePere, Wis.

10sHALEY FLAGSTADHALEY FLAGSTAD’14

is a freshman at St. Norbert College and

is a cheerleader for the Green Knights.

She will also cheerlead for the Green Bay

Packers during their 2014 season. Look for

her at Lambeau Field when you’re there!

class notesTHE FOLLOWING PAGE INCLUDES NEWS AND NOTES SUBMITTED PRIOR TO SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Save the date

for two USM events in Longboat Key and for two USM events in Longboat Key and Naples, Fla. on Thursday, February 12, 2015. Naples, Fla. on Thursday, February 12, 2015. Contact Contact [email protected]@usmk12.org for more for more event information.event information.

To submit a class note: Email your news to [email protected] your news to [email protected]

31


In 2007, I was a new parent at University School of Milwaukee, having just moved from the Chicago

area. My three boys were entering prekindergarten, senior kindergarten, and 2nd grade, my head

was still spinning from adapting to a new city, house, and school, and yet even at that time, I felt

strongly that USM was the right place for us. I felt that even more after I discovered the incredibly

engaged parent community and the seemingly endless ways to get involved through the Parents’

Association (PA).

Seven years later, I fi nd myself serving as the President of the PA, the umbrella organization

through which parents collaborate and share their time and talents to help provide their children

with the best educational experiences possible. The PA contributes approximately 18,000 volunteer

hours to the life of the School each year, with two-thirds of these hours directly supporting teachers,

administrators, students, and fellow parents, including activities such as assisting with the Preprimary

and Lower School car circles, volunteering for Middle School lunch tables, and organizing Upper

School dances, just to name a few.

The remaining third of our volunteer hours is devoted to fundraising, through a couple of large

traditional events, such as Holiday Shops and Rummage at the Rink, as well as some smaller ones.

Parents’ Association contributes the net proceeds of our fundraisers, which is currently around

$225,000 per year, to the School for capital improvements. We spend an additional $40,000

annually sponsoring School programs and events on a class-wide, division-wide, or School-wide

basis, including assemblies, author visits, Grandparents and Special Friends Day, and Arts Live.

My involvement in the PA is a rewarding one, and I am humbled to serve in my role as President

this year. I am proud of all the ways that our parents fi nd to give back to their children’s school,

since their involvement is critical to the success of USM.

Parents’ Association Board Front from left Megan Wallskog, Jane Lacy, Lisa Wright,

Parents’ Association President Niven Kingwill, Jennifer Reese, and Colleen Polston.

Back from left Nancy Smith, Patricia Fritz Kauffman, Marie Tucker, Melissa Sheppard,

Stacey Radke, Molly Fritz, Jennifer Schoon, and Kristin Sheehan.

Parents’ AssociationBoard 2014-2015

PresidentNiven Kingwill

President-ElectMolly Fritz

TreasurerNancy Smith

SecretaryLisa Wright

Preprimary CoordinatorColleen Polston

Lower School CoordinatorJane Lacy

Middle School CoordinatorMegan Wallskog

Upper School CoordinatorMarie Tucker

Nominations CoordinatorJennifer Reese

Volunteer CoordinatorJen Schoon

Communications CoordinatorMelissa Sheppard

Special Events CoordinatorSara LeBrun-Blashka

Past-PresidentStacey Radke

President Niven Kingwill

Parents’ Association: Our Parents Give Back



Inspiration can come from a variety of places. For Megan DograMegan Dogra ’17,

it was an assembly speaker that inspired a fi erce call to action during

her freshman year. Dr. Lalita du Perron, associate director of the

Center for South Asia at the University of Wisconsin-Madison,

gave a lecture addressing modern-day issues in India that struck

a chord within Dogra, who had just recently joined USM’s Global

Scholars Program.

“Her passion and the issues she was involved with really inspired

me,” Dogra said.

Following the assembly, Dogra conducted her own research

and discovered the tragedy and aftermath of the Bhopal gas

leak disaster on December 3, 1984. More than 40 tons of methyl

isocyante leaked from a carbide plant in Bhopal, India, forming a

gas cloud over the city of 500,000 people. Gas inhalation killed

more than 8,000 individuals, and that number grew to more than

20,000 over the weeks and months that followed. Waste from the

leak still impacts families today, with an estimated 200,000 people,

mostly children, suffering from chronic illnesses related to the leak.

“I wanted to be the voice of these poor, unfortunate, and illiterate

people who have been suffering for more than three decades,”

Dogra said.

Dr. Henry Wend, director of USM’s Global Scholars Program,

connected Dogra with du Perron, and those two got to work raising

funds and awareness for the people of Bhopal. Dogra created a

Facebook page to raise money for second- and third-generation

victims of the leak, with proceeds benefi tting a nutrition program

that provides free meals at the Chingari Rehabilitation Center

in Bhopal.

Dogra also visited Bhopal this past March and met with survivors

and their families. During her visit, she shot footage to be used for

her documentary entitled “Assist Bhopal.” The fi lm was shown at

the Milwaukee Film Festival in September, as part of the Milwaukee

Youth Show.

“What really struck me from speaking with these families is the hope

that they still have,” Dogra said. “Their spirit and resilience has truly

stuck with me.”

Dogra is also planning a benefi t dinner with Ben York, USM’s

service leaning coordinator, at the Bollywood Grill in downtown

Milwaukee this December.

“I witnessed so many powerful, moving experiences during my time

at the clinics,” Dogra said. “I wanted to use the footage to provide a

window for my audience to see what I saw and make a connection

to those people.”

Megan DograMegan Dogra ’17 spends time with a small group in Bhopal, India.

Global Scholar Answers Call to “Assist Bhopal”

33


preprimary teachers “Think Big” during trip to Italy BY MARGARET MACKEDON BROWNE, SUE JEFFERS & JEN KEPPLER

Think Big Fund

Thanks to the generosity of a USM family during the Next Generation Capital

Campaign, the Think Big Fund was established as a named fund in USM’s

Endowment. Since 2002, the Think Big Fund has provided substantial

professional development opportunities for our faculty on an annual basis,

distinguishing USM from our peer schools. This generous funding helps to

attract and retain talented educational professionals and maintains USM’s

position as an educational leader in the Milwaukee community.

From left:From left: USM Preprimary Teachers USM Preprimary Teachers

Margaret MacKedon Browne, Sue Jeffers, Margaret MacKedon Browne, Sue Jeffers,

and Jen Keppler traveled to Italy to learn and Jen Keppler traveled to Italy to learn

more about the Reggio Emilia Approach more about the Reggio Emilia Approach

to early childhood education.to early childhood education.



During last year’s frigid Milwaukee winter, as University School

of Milwaukee was forced to declare several “cold days” due

to the extreme weather, we decided to act upon our dream

to travel to Italy and learn more about the Reggio Emilia

Approach to early childhood education. This Approach is an

inspiring educational model in which children are viewed as

strong, capable, and competent. It puts into practice many

of the fundamental aspects of the work of John Dewey, Jean

Piaget, Lev Vygotsky, and connects to the more recent work of

Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligence theory. The curriculum

emerges from the interests of the children. The teachers act

as researchers by providing opportunities, materials, and a

framework for children to explore, problem-solve, and make

conclusions, weaving skills and outcomes into the project work.

The environment acts as the “third

teacher” and enhances the

learning experience.

As USM continues to implement

its Strategic Plan, based around

learning in new and more creative

ways, we were eager to observe,

discuss, and learn fi rst-hand

in order to make authentic,

experiential learning the hallmark of

our Preprimary Program practice. A

cold day away from School gave us the time needed to begin

a grant proposal that would soon take us to a quaint little

municipality in northern Italy where the youngest of children

learn in some of the best early childhood programs in

the world.

In Reggio Emilia, children are thought to have many ways

of learning, showing understanding, and expressing their

interests and creativity. These ways are referred to as “The

Hundred Languages of Children,” and describe one hundred

ways of thinking, creating, dancing, singing, acting, exploring,

and learning. Teachers provide simple materials and guide

learning based on student interests, while children work

collaboratively and gain knowledge through their explorations

and investigations. Children and teachers work together to fi nd

answers to questions. Teachers observe and guide students, and

document and revisit topics of interest to deepen understanding

and represent learning.

Our study tour in Italy was simply amazing. Each morning after

a long walk from our hotel, we gathered in the conference

center—a space dedicated to the teaching of educators from

around the world—to discuss the approach. We met teachers

from near and far, and collaborated and built relationships with

early childhood educators from similar independent schools

in Illinois, Massachusetts, and Missouri. In the afternoon, we

explored project-based learning exhibitions and visited area

preschools. We found small schools with simple classrooms

where very purposeful learning

was taking place. The culture of

the city surrounding the schools

was inspirational. We were struck

by the lack of technology in the

public setting, but amazed at the

use of technology as a learning tool

within the classrooms. Seeing the

children engaged in learning within

their environment was extremely

valuable. Evenings were spent

exploring the city, networking with

many educators, and, most importantly, discussing, refl ecting,

and digesting what we had learned during the day.

Three months later, we continue to marvel at the experience we

had in Italy. We look forward to sharing what we’ve learned with

fellow USM educators and our students and their families, and

integrating much of what we learned into our teaching practice.

Our time together was wonderful and we bonded as colleagues,

happy to have shared this experience together. We are forever

grateful to teach at a school that values professional development.

We were encouraged to “Think Big” and explore the world to

fi nd inspiration that will lead us to continue being the best we

can be, and we did just that.

E,

Teaching is a Teaching is a profession for not profession for not

thinking small.thinking small.LORIS MALAGUZZI

,

From left: USM Preprimary Teachers

Margaret MacKedon Browne, Sue Jeffers,

and Jen Keppler traveled to Italy to learn

more about the Reggio Emilia Approach

to early childhood education.

35


Bringing Ideas to the Table:Inquiry, Exploration Thrive in Upper School Roundtable Discussions

The presentation and exploration of ideas, a staple of

University School of Milwaukee’s Upper School curriculum,

is perhaps best personifi ed in the School’s roundtable-style

English and Humanities courses.

Originated from the oval “Harkness” table popularized by

the Phillips Exeter Academy beginning in the 1930s, the

roundtable format allows for the exchange of ideas in an

environment in which each student is an active participant.

“Each class really becomes its own community, with its own

fl avor and personality,” said 9th-Grade English Teacher Kate

Gay. “As opposed to just responding to a question, students

must actively prepare and engage with one another in class.

In this way, everyone brings something to the conversation.”

Instead of setting up tables in rows facing a Smartboard and

a lecturing teacher, the format brings all students face-to-face

as they develop key verbal and non-verbal communication

skills. It also encourages students—in an increasingly

technology-centric educational era—to hone essential

interpersonal skills and be present in the moment with

their classmates.

“Looking someone in the eye and explaining an idea in a

clear, concise way will never go out of style,” said Upper

School English Teacher and English Department Chair

Elaine Griffi n. “That skill will always be essential. The format

encourages students to be present in this era of technology

and to develop confi dence in their ability to present contextual

evidence and ask interpretive questions.”

Students work through a Students work through a

text in Kate Gay’s 9th-grade text in Kate Gay’s 9th-grade

English class.English class.



This shared-inquiry model allows daily discussion to be driven

by student interests, since students are able to take the lead

in presenting concrete evidence to support their thoughts,

develop critical thinking skills to articulate their points, and

utilize the freedom to fi nd their own voice.

However, the teacher still plays an essential role—as

facilitator—to keep the group on task and discussion

focused on the text.

“My role is to ask provocative questions and bring the

discussion back to the text,” Griffi n said. “Our students

always fi nd fresh new ways to interpret the text, often

unearthing ideas I hadn’t considered previously. I learn so

much from them, and try to expose them to new ways of

thinking as well. It’s about the process.”

The method also has practical long-term value in preparing

students to talk through and resolve problems in a group

setting, a valuable skill in today’s job market.

“It is great training in terms of developing public speaking

and critical thinking skills, really some of those ‘board room

skills,’ and learning how to debate and defend their ideas in

a civil manner,” Griffi n said. “At its core, the method teaches

students how to think critically through literature.”

37


After a season of honors, championships,

and accolades, the University School of

Milwaukee athletic program is hungry to

build upon the success of the 2013-2014 season.

“We were fortunate enough to be honored, in one year, for our overall institutional

program as well as the success of our individual teams,” USM Athletic Director

Rick Johns said. “It’s rare to be recognized for both.”

That recognition included being named one of two recipients of the Interscholastic

Sports Program of Excellence award by Coach and Athletic Director magazine, which

honors the nation’s best programs for their overall commitment to promoting a positive

experience for student-athletes. USM also earned two performance-based awards, as

the program was honored by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as a Program of the Year,

and took home the Wisconsin Sports Network Cup in the small school division. Both

awards were based on a points-system that rewarded competitive success in boys’ and

girls’ sports.

But 2014-2015 is a new year, and Johns is intent on fi nding ways to continue to grow the

depth and richness of the program.

“It’s great to have highs like this but we can’t rest on our laurels,” Johns said. “We need

to challenge ourselves to get better, to identify areas that need improvement, and to

work hard on those areas.”

Johns identifi ed building the USM lacrosse program as a focal point, especially at the

Lower School and Middle School levels. A summer LaxCats lacrosse camp was held

on campus last spring, as the program continues to pursue opportunities for growth.

In addition to the development of the lacrosse program, the program is also working

on additional ways to create more connections between athletes across divisions. A

new “Wildcat Fan” initiative, introduced this year by Lower School Athletic Coordinator

Michael Sweet, will pair Upper School mentors with Mighty Cat athletes to help teach

them the fundamentals during their after-school practices. The Mighty Cats then

become designated “fans” of their mentors and engage with

them in a variety of ways, including decorating their lockers

before big games.

“We want to build a strong foundation here and give our

students the opportunity to see what is ahead for them,”

Johns said.

The USM boys’ tennis team capped USM’s 2013-2014 athletic season by winning the WIAA Division 2 state team championship for the eighth time in nine years in June.

Djdade Denson ’14 won the WIAA Division 2 state championship in the triple jump

and placed second in the long jump.

Students from grades 1-8 participated in the LaxCats instructional camp held at USM from April through June.

“It’s all about building those positive connections through athletics and encouraging our young athletes to grow.”



The Varsity Club is pleased to recognize generations of outstanding athletic

tradition at University School of Milwaukee and its predecessor schools through the

establishment of the Athletic Hall of Fame. The Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame will

forever commemorate a long legacy of exceptional performances and contributions by

former athletes, coaches, teams, and distinguished contributors, while recognizing the

important role of athletics within the culture of the School.

“I am excited about the opportunity the Hall will afford the many coaches and student-

athletes whose signifi cant accomplishments during their time at our schools will be

appropriately recognized,” said Maurie Daigneau, director of special giving at USM.

“The world of sport is an arena that brings forth exceptional qualities and skills in people, and this Hall of Fame will be created to recognize the most exceptional of those accomplishments,” Daigneau said.The intention is that the Hall of Fame will also serve to add historical signifi cance to

participation in USM athletics and inspire current and future athletes by honoring the

many standouts from each of the school’s storied histories.

“The Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame will connect different generations of athletes

and unite them in the alumni community,” said Holly PalinHolly Palin ’02, a four-sport USM

athlete who served on the initial Hall of Fame creation committee. “That is what

makes this so special.”

All community members from USM and its predecessor schools will have the

opportunity to nominate a student-athlete, coach, team, or distinguished contributor

through December 1 of each induction year. Classes will be inducted every two years.

The inaugural Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame Induction

Banquet will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2015Saturday, June 6, 2015.

For more information or to submit a nomination for

the Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame, please visit

www.usmk12.org/athletichalloffame or email

Maurie Daigneau at [email protected].

39


This article appeared in the Sunday, September 8, 1963 edition of the Milwaukee Journal.

Merger to Go Into Effect in Fall of 1964New Institution to Be Called the University School; It Will Have

Two Campuses.Consolidation of Mil-

waukee Downer seminary, Milwaukee University School, and Milwaukee Country Day School into a single, private institution was announced Saturday.

The merger, approved by the three schools’ boards of trustees and separate meetings, will take effect in September, 1964.

Financial factors and the potential for achiev-ing extremely high quality education by pooling resources led to

the decision.“Everyone concerned

is convinced that the children of this commu-nity will profit by the consolidation, and that it will prove an outstanding contribution to educa-tion at large,” said a letter mailed Saturday to par-ents, alumni, and friends of the three institutions.

1,100 Enrollment Forecast

The merged institution will be named University School, Milwaukee. It is expected to have an ini-tial enrollment of 1,100 boys and girls in nurs-

ery school through high school.

It will operate on two campuses—the present Downer Seminary, 2100 W. Fairy Chasm rd, River Hills, to be called North campus, and the Country Day School, 6401 N. Santa Monica blvd., in Fox Point and Whitefish Bay, as South campus. They are about fi ve miles apart.

Trustees said the consol-idation would provide an endowment of more than two million dollars.

Votes UnanimousDecades of tradition,

school spirit, and family

feeling faced the board members as they held separate meetings Friday noon. Collectively, the three schools have 273 years of history behind them. Downer Seminary dates back to 1848, MUS to 1851, and Country Day to 1917.

The votes of all three boards, however, were unanimous, the chairman said.

The 6.3 acre MUS cam-pus at 2033 E. Hartford av. is to be sold for $2,300,000 to the University of Wis-consin for expansion of the University of Wis-consin – Milwaukee’s

Kenwood campus under an agreement announced July 30. The new merger is expected to make the property available to UWM one year earlier.

On June 30, MUS said it planned to build a new campus on a 40 acre tract it owns in River Hills, across the road from Downer seminary.

But offi cials of all three schools decided that the MUS decision to leave its present campus and get a substantial sum of money for its sale brought about the right conditions for negotiating the consoli-dation.

a look back

To read the article in its entirety,

visit www.usmk12.org/50yearsofUSM.



nov18Parent Education – USM’s Strategic Plan with Head of Middle School Pamela Nosbusch

19Upper School Band, Orchestra, and Choir Concert

21Upper School Parent Coffee

dec3Middle School Parent Coffee

5-6Middle School Fall Play

10All-School Holiday Concert

17Middle School Band and Orchestra Concert

18Preprimary Holiday Sing

jan14Grades 5-6 Choral Concert

21Grades 7-8 Choral and World Drumming Concert

23Upper School Parent Coffee

20Celebrate our Seniors Parent Event

25USM Community Book Club Event

26Grandparents and Special Friends Day

Young Alumni Brunch

13USM Community Book Club Event

27-30Lower School Book Fair

29Lower School Show and Share Night

a look aheadUPCOMING EVENTS THROUGH FEBRUARY 01, 2015

September 24-27, 2015

Homecoming & Reunion WeekendSeptember 24-27, 2015

save the date!41


2100 West Fairy Chasm RoadMilwaukee, WI 53217

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

On June 8, 1985, University School of Milwaukee celebrated the move from the South Campus to the unifi ed Fairy Chasm Road campus with a day of festivities and fun.


usm today fall 2014

Documents

school year

tenet of respect

college preparatory

usm community

usm special

common trust

usm todaymailing li

day ceremony