On Friday, May 13th students, parents and alumni enjoyed an inspiring day celebrating the value of Waldorf Education. The day began with a panel of twelve alumni from diverse professional backgrounds (read alumni bios here), moderated by MSNBC National Reporter, Irin Carmon ’01. Alumni shared the many different ways their Waldorf education helped them to become the successful people they are today. Recurring themes around leadership development, innovation, and a sense of accountability emerged throughout the discussion. Following the general panel discussion, high school students had the opportunity to ask in depth questions in smaller break-out sessions. The symposium concluded with a lively luncheon where students continued to network with alumni, forging new connections and exploring career possibilities.
ALUMNI PANEL
(L-R) Faith Rose ’86, Ulrich Brechbuhl ’82, Ayanna Carney Wayner ’94, Christine Gotz Shakespeare ’84, Jesse Kane ’05, Ann Murray ’85, Lauren E. Murray ’01, Richard Pisano ’78, Helen (Resnick) Shaw ’82, Michael Tammero ’89, Jean-Rene Zetrenne ’88, Irin Carmon ’01. (Click for additional Symposium photos.)
The day concluded with the School’s Gala Celebration at the Garden City Hotel. The night included silent auction bidding, a formal dinner and Award Ceremony (read honoree bios here). Honorary Chair, Richard Pisano, Jr ’78, President, Citrus and Allied, graciously welcomed guests. He said, “As a graduate of the School I am grateful for the experiences I had as a student. The Waldorf School provided me a complete educational experience that included academics, music and athletics. Attending the Waldorf School has been one of the great blessings of my life.”
Serving as MC, Michael Tammero ’89, host of In the FOXlight, was charming and entertaining throughout the evening. He also presented the Spirit of Waldorf Award to former Athletic Director, Gordon Purdie, and the Distinguished Faculty Award to former Early Childhood Educator, Stevie Ross. In addition, Ken Chenault ’69, Chairman and CEO of American Express, presented the Outstanding Alumni Awards to his former classmates, Doug Hamshaw ‘68, Marianne (Hoover) Hamshaw ‘69 and his friend Scott Mills ‘86. And finally, T. Ulrich Brechbühl ’82, President, Appenseller Point, LLC, presented, The Hans R. Brechbühl Service Award to two very deserving and dedicated alumni parents, Kate O’Connell and Daryl Smalls. The evening was capped off with joyful dancing and socializing until after midnight.
Director of the Office of Development & Alumni Relations, Marjorie Jean-Paul said, “Tonight was a success in every way! Continuing to advance the mission of the School requires the full engagement of our entire community. We are fortunate to have the dedication of so many in ensuring the necessary resources are available for our faculty in their important work with our students each day.” All proceeds from the Gala Celebration will go towards improving The Waldorf School of Garden City and Camp Glen Brook grounds and facilities.
GALA HONOREES
(L-R) Daryl Smalls, Kate O’Connell, Gordon Purdie, Ken Chenault ’69, Stevie Ross, Doug Hamshaw ’68, Michael Tammero ’89, Marianne Hamshaw ’69, Scott Mills ’86. (Click for additional Gala photos.)
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