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November 28, 2023

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

Education Ed Notes

Gunston Invited to Join Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association

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The Gunston School is pleased to announce they’ll be joining the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. MIAA is the state’s premier boys’ athletic conference and includes 29 private high schools across eight Maryland counties and Baltimore City. Divided into three tiers based on school size (A, B, & C), MIAA schools have a combined enrollment of 17,000, and it is recognized as one of the country’s most prestigious, competitive, and well-run independent school athletic conferences.

“Gunston first applied to the MIAA nearly 25 years ago,” explained Gunston Athletic Director Josh Breto, “and while our initial attempts to join were not fruitful, the recent combination of Gunston’s enrollment growth, expanded offerings, improved athletic performance, and facilities upgrades made our most recent application successful.”

Beginning in fall of 2024, Gunston’s boys’ teams which include soccer, cross country, swimming, basketball, lacrosse, tennis and golf will begin full-time MIAA competition in the “C” conference.

“Let me acknowledge the efforts of our current Athletic Director, Mr. Josh Breto, who coordinated this process, and I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention the impact of former athletic directors Jon Mellinger and Anita Gruss, both of whom helped to nurture the steady enhancement of Heron Athletics over the years. I also want to thank our Board of Trustees, whose continued support of our school’s athletic program and leadership, helped make this possible,” said Head of School John Lewis.

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Gunston Welcomes 39 Students to the National Honor Society

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The Gunston School is pleased to welcome 39 students to the National Honor Society (NHS). Joined by their families, students assembled in Gunston’s Field House for the ceremony.

This year’s newly selected members include Alix Allison, Lily Brantner, Thomas Callahan, Allison Davis, Aiden Dunlap, Lennox Franks, Elena Fraser, Brayden Hamm, Grace Hanlon, Tyler Hanson, Trevor Janssen, Robert (R.P.) Johnson, Samantha (Sam) Keith, Phoebe Kelly, Logan Kille, Allison Lutz, Victoria MacGlashan, V McCluskey, Isla McCollum, Justin McCubbin, Robert (Ethan) McWilliams, Kazys Morris, Louise Mulock, Victoria (Tori) Nessly, Josh Nuessle, Benta Owino, Margaret Porciello, Margaret Randolph, Evelyn Russ, Alivia Runz, Katherine Sadler, Emma Sharp, Grace Shepherd, Jackson Showalter, Zachary Steinberg, Drew Tolley, Mia Walker, Aidan Watson, and Evan Zottarelli.

This year’s speaker was Mr. Jaelon Moaney, Senior Manager of Federal Relations at the American Institute of Architects (AIA). An Easton High School alum, Mr. Moaney earned his B.A. in Political Science, Leadership Studies, African Studies, and Environmental Studies from the prominent Williams College in Massachusetts. In addition to being a superb student, he was a 4-year letter winner as a member of their football team.

He is currently the Manager of Federal Relations at the American Institute of Architects, supporting their lobbying efforts before Congress and the Administration. Before joining them in 2021, he worked for almost three years in the U.S. Senate serving Marylanders both on Capitol Hill and across the state.

Statewide, he is an External Advisory Board member for the Maryland Sea Grant program and was recently appointed by Gov. Wes Moore to represent Talbot County on the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture. Locally and regionally, Mr. Moaney is the co-founder and director of an organization that partners with local schools and nonprofits to provide literacy opportunities. He is also an inaugural member of the Water’s Edge Museum Advisory Board in Oxford and on the board of the Talbot County Public Schools Educational Foundation.

Current NHS officers include the following seniors: President Allie Fitzgerald, Vice President Caitlin Myers, Secretary Bella Taylor, Service Coordinator Anna Szwaja, Parliamentarian Jan Serraviñals, and Communications Officer Ben Cook.

Each fall, membership in NHS is offered to those students who meet the required standards put forth by the national office in four areas of evaluation: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. For the scholarship criterion, a student must have a cumulative grade point average of 88 (B+) or higher.

Students who meet this criterion are invited to submit a comprehensive resume that outlines their activities, achievements, leadership, and service. To evaluate a candidate on the national criterion of character, a student’s school records are reviewed, and each candidate selects four members of the faculty to provide their professional reflections on the candidate’s citizenship, leadership, activities, and personal conduc

(Front Row, l-r) Keynote speaker Jaelon Moaney, Margaret Porciello ’25 (Denton), Logan Kille ’25 (Centreville), Emma Sharp ’25 (Denton), Jackson Showalter ’25 (Easton), Benta Owino ’25 (Grasonville), Allison Davis ’25 (Chestertown), Evelyn Russ ’25 (Cambridge), Elena Fraser ’25 (Annapolis), Grace Hanlon ’25 (Middletown, Del.) and Isla McCollum ’25 (Centreville).

(Second row, l-r) Head of School John Lewis, Trevor Janssen ’25 (Stevensville), Tori  Nessly ’25 (Earleville), Victoria MacGlashan ’25 (Centreville), Drew Tolly ’24 (Cambridge), Mia Walker ’25 (Easton), Alix Allison ’25 (Annapolis), Lennox Franks ’25 (Queenstown), Alivia Runz ’25 (Easton), Grace Shepherd ’25 (Church Hill), Gunston NHS Advisor Mike Kaylor.

(Third Row, l-r) RP Johnson ’25 (Ridgely), Zach Steinberg ’25 (St. Michaels), Kazys Morris ’25 (Centreville), Lily Brantner ’25 (Easton), Louise Mulock ’25 (Church Hill), Phoebe Kelly ’25 (Chestertown), Margaret Randolph ’25 (Millington), V McCluskey ’25 (Centreville), Katherine Sadler ’25 (Easton), Assistant Head of School Christie Grabis.

(Fourth Row, l-r) Ethan McWilliams ’25 (St. Michaels), Tyler Hanson ’24 (Upper Marlboro), Josh Nuessle ’24 (Centreville), Aiden Dunlap ’24 (Chestertown), Justin McCubbin ’25 (Severna Park), and Brayden Hamm ’25 (Smyrna, Del.).

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Bull & Oyster Roast Raises $120,000 for The Gunston School

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Gunston Bull Roast volunteer and parent of 2021 alumni Emily Shifrin, with Gunston Board of Trustees members Jim Shifrin and Jill Caron, P’17. Photo by Derrika Layne Photography.

The Gunston School welcomed nearly 200 parents, alumni and community supporters to their waterfront campus on Saturday, October 21 for their signature fundraising event, the Bull & Oyster Roast, raising a little over $120,000 for Gunston’s annual giving program, smashing their record from last year. Guests enjoyed delicious food provided by Phat Daddy’s BBQ (Chestertown) and Superior Oyster Shuckers (Baltimore) as well as sweet treats from Emily’s Produce.

“We’ve had volunteers working on this event since early August,” said Parent Association President Ildi Watkins, P’26 (Easton). “They’ve been pounding the pavement for auction items, procuring wine donations, and have spent countless hours on campus making name tags, rolling silverware, creating beautiful flower arrangements, and a lot more. The success of this event is truly a testament to our volunteers who came out of the woodwork to help!”

The online silent auction featured 50 items ranging from original artwork, specialty baskets filled with local gift certificates, professional photography session, fishing charters, luxury catered cruises, NFL tickets, spa packages, and a wide variety of experiences such as the opportunity to be a beekeeper for a day, almost all of which were procured by Gunston Parents’ Association volunteers.

The live auction featured six items including a Paul Reed Smith custom guitar, Ravens versus Dolphins tickets for six on New Year’s Eve, vacations to Jamaica and Mexico, a catered cruise for 10 with a private chef, and VIP tickets to the Gunston 2024 Commencement ceremony. The evening’s auctioneer was volunteer Woody Dunstan, P’24, who once served as the Director of Operations at Christie’s Auction House, where he trained as a charity auctioneer.

A very successful “Raise the Paddle” raised $42,100 for Health & Campus Safety initiatives including a comprehensive security audit with a professional security consultant that specializes in school safety, campus-wide upgrades including automated doors and locks, lighting, updated communications system, installation of tempered glass and faculty and student best-practices safety and security training.

Head of School John Lewis shared, “Each year, we gather together as a community to both have fun and raise funds to support our students and teachers. This year was especially inspiring as attendees were extraordinarily generous in their support!” Generous donations such as these allow Gunston to provide experiences above and beyond what tuition pays for as well as provide 60% of Gunston families with financial aid.

The event had 50 sponsors and included:

Founded in 1911, The Gunston School is an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian, coeducational, college preparatory high school located on 75 waterfront acres in Centreville, Maryland. Visit gunston.org for more information.

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Mid-Shore College Fair & Financial Planning Evening set for October 16

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The Gunston School is pleased to announce the Mid-Shore College Fair and Financial Planning Evening on Monday, October 16 from 6-8 p.m. at Chesapeake College’s Room 127 in Wye Mills, Md. This event is free and open to the public with no registration required. Participants are encouraged to browse the college fair at their own pace and have the option to attend one of two sessions on the Financial Aid Process at 6:15 and 7:15 p.m., led by Senior Associate Director of Student Financial Aid at Washington College, Cailean Leith.

Mr. Leith has worked in higher education financial aid at Washington College since 2006, and attended St. Mary’s College of Maryland where he received his Bachelor’s of Art in History.

“We have more than 50 colleges and universities coming,” said Gunston’s Co-Director of College Guidance Emily Coffey. Those attending include Alfred University, Binghamton University, Bucknell University, Chesapeake College, Christopher Newport University, Clarkson University, College of Charleston, Davidson College, Dean College, Dickinson College, Elizabethtown College, Franklin and Marshall College, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, High Point University, Johnson & Wales University-Providence, Lafayette College, Marist College, Miami University, Oxford, Mount St. Mary’s University, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Main Campus, Queens University of Charlotte, Rider University, Roanoke College, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rollins College, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Saint Joseph’s University, Salisbury University, Salve Regina University, Savannah College of Art & Design, Seton Hall University, Shenandoah University, St. Bonaventure University, St. John’s College, Susquehanna University, Syracuse University, The American University of Paris, The George Washington University, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Towson University, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Delaware, University of Maryland-College Park, University of Rhode Island, University of San Francisco, University of Utah, Ursinus College, Villanova University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Warren Wilson College, Washington Adventist University, Washington College, Worcester Polytechnic Institute and York College of Pennsylvania.

The Mid-Shore College Fair was made possible with support from the Mid-Shore Community Foundation. Contact Gunston’s Directors of College Guidance with questions: Emily Coffey, [email protected] or 410-758-0620 ext 3101 and Tony D’Antonio, [email protected] or 410-758-0620 ext 3100.

Founded in 1911, The Gunston School is an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian, coeducational, college preparatory high school located in Centreville, Maryland. Visit gunston.org for more information.

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Gunston Embarkation Welcomes New Students & Faculty

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The Gunston School commenced its 113th year on Tuesday, September 5, with its annual Embarkation tradition, welcoming a total of 83 new students and five new employees to the community by boat. After exchanging a handshake with the Head of School, newcomers signed the school’s Honor Code, and made their way up the hill to greet fellow students and current staff and faculty. Parents and family members were invited to watch from the shoreline as students arrived.

Once all new students and staff arrived by boat, they made their way to the Field House for Convocation. Student Body President Maren Kneeland ’24 welcomed the crowd and addressed new students. “You’ll find that what’s best for yourself is going to change over and over and over again and constantly revise yourself as you grow up. […] Being ready for the next chapter of your life, whether you’re starting high school or finishing it, is not feeling like you know everything, but that you’re ready to learn from whatever is going to come at you. So, as you go through high school, never stop asking yourself the hard questions, making the tough decisions, and setting challenging goals. The moment that you stop doing that, is the moment that you stop allowing yourself to learn at all.”

After ringing an antique bell from Gunston’s days as an all-girls boarding school, Assistant Head of School Christie Grabis declared, “Welcome to the 2023-2024 school year, the bell has sounded, you may now commence the year!”

New students had the opportunity to get to know their peers well before the start of school during Gunston’s orientation and leadership retreats. Ninth grade students went on a two-day retreat at Camp Pecometh, where they spent the day and evening participating in various outdoor challenges and team building activities. They then returned to campus the following day, where they were joined by new upperclass students and current student leaders for informational sessions on central school values, technology, and more.

Running simultaneously, Gunston’s 8th Annual Leadership Institute invited student leaders from various clubs, student government, and athletics to gather and learn about leadership practices, set goals for the year, and to help facilitate activities for new students.

Faculty and staff were also busy preparing for the beginning of school with departmental retreats, new employee orientation, and annual CPR, First Aid/AED, ALICE and various other emergency response trainings. Gunston’s Math Department welcomes Captain Clay Saunders as a part time math teacher. Capt. Saunders possesses more than 35 years of military service and experience in industrial manufacturing. He holds Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; a Master of Arts Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island; and a Master of Science Degree in Operations Research from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California.

Also joining the math department is Gunston alum Ryan Redding ’17, who has served as one of Gunston’s rowing coaches since 2022. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Washington College and a Master of Arts degree in Chemistry from the University of Delaware. With professional experience as a technician in the Research and Development Lab at the Lamotte Company, Mr. Redding gained valuable expertise in lab management and analytical skills.

Joining Gunston as the new Fine Arts Department Chair is Amanda Pesce, who earned a double Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art and Art History, as well as her Master of Arts in art history, authentication, and administration—all from Temple University. Most recently teaching art at St. Anne’s School in Annapolis, Ms. Pesce also taught at the Phelps School, and is a recent graduate of Columbia University’s prestigious Klingenstein Summer Teaching Institute.

Audrey McNeal joined Gunston as the Assistant to the Head of School and Alumni Coordinator. Mrs. McNeal is an accomplished administrative professional with 25 years of experience at a variety of institutions including large corporations as well as pharmaceutical and healthcare companies. Prior experiences also include expertise in tasks such as information analysis, report preparation, database management, and more.

Natalie Reading ’16 joined in January as the new Assistant Athletic Director for Waterfront Athletics and also serves as the Head Crew Coach. She is a familiar face in the Gunston community, as a four-year rower during her time, and she has experience both competing and coaching at the collegiate level for St. Mary’s College and the University of Maryland club team. She earned her Bachelor’s of Art in Sociology at the University of Maryland.

Founded in 1911 and currently enrolling 243 students, The Gunston School is an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian, coeducational, college preparatory high school located in Centreville, Maryland. Visit gunston.org for more information. 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

112th Gunston School Commencement: Class of 2023 Earns $10M in College Scholarships

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The Gunston School celebrated its 112th commencement this past Saturday, June 10, honoring the Class of 2023 with a waterfront ceremony overlooking the Corsica River, as family and friends looked on. The procession began with Bagpiper Robert Wallace, followed by school faculty and staff, and then the graduating seniors. 

Head of School John Lewis introduced the commencement speaker, John A. “Johnny” O’Brien, the President Emeritus of the Milton Hershey School, Trustee Emeritus of Princeton University, and the founder of Renaissance Leadership, Inc. Additionally, he is the author of “Semisweet: An Orphan’s Journey through the School the Hersheys Built.” He has been a keynote speaker, seminar leader, and high performance coach for more than 50,000 managers and executives. He did this for over 25 years, until he was called back to save the orphanage which had saved his life. 

“I discovered that adversity is an advantage when well processed with advocates,” said O’Brien. “You know what they look like, they have surrounded you in this amazing Gunston family for years! Your teachers, your coaches, your advisors and administrators. They won’t leave your heart but they must leave your side and it’ll be your essential job to replicate them.” 

Mr. Lewis and Gunston’s Chair of the Board Patrick Shoemaker ’03 then presented each graduate with their diploma, individually handcrafted by faculty member Michael Kaylor on an antique letterpress. This year’s senior class had a successful college admission season and worked hard to earn $10 million dollars in merit scholarships. 

This year’s valedictorian honor (also called the Samuel A. Middleton Award) was bestowed upon Zacharia (Zach) Mozher of Middletown, Del. “[Zach] has a mathematically perfect final GPA, having taken the most rigorous course load in the class, including 8 honors courses, and 11 AP courses, where he has already earned recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction, [as well as being] named a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. […] In his free time, he anchored our ESIAC championship cross-country team and our State Champion triathlon team, and he’s a stalwart member of our Model UN and Mock Trial teams. In the fall, he’s off to Princeton University, where we know he will represent himself, and Gunston, with distinction,” said Mr. Lewis.

Mr. Mozher had this parting wisdom for classmates, “Work hard for the future, yes, save up money for the future, but never put off your happiness for the future, because I promise you, that sacrifice is not worth it. Chase your dreams but don’t put your life on hold for them. Life starts now. So enjoy the journey, enjoy college. Fill your days with as many experiences and relationships as you can. Make the most of what little time we have on this Earth.”

Presented by Assistant Head of School Christie Grabis, the prestigious Gunston Award, which began in 1969 and is “unique in that it’s chosen by the vote of the entire school community,” was presented to Damian René of Easton, Md. 

“The State of Maryland requires independent school graduates to have a minimum of 21 credits and Gunston requires 24. This student is finishing high school with a total of 30 credits including nine honors, 11 AP’s, three advanced online college programs, two internal year-long independent studies, multiple club memberships, numerous awards and honors for character, leadership and service, all reflect this student’s high level of responsibility and awareness and appreciation of differences,” said Ms. Grabis. 

The graduates are listed here with the honors presented to them the day before on Friday, June 9 during the school’s Green & White Awards ceremony, which featured the valedictorian address. 

Graduating Seniors & Recognitions:
Nicholas “Nick” Abell (Crownsville) Math Award, National Merit Commended Scholar; Zachary “Zack” Adams (Centreville); Madilyn “Maddie” Algier (Easton); Olivia Amygdalos (Wyoming, Del.) Sciences Award; Kelby Booth (Denton) Bobi Kendall Memorial Scholarship; McKinsey Brown (Centreville); Julia Buchanan (Centreville) The Faculty Award; Katelyn “Kate” Campbell (Centreville) 12 Star Award; Nicasio “Nick” Ceruolo (Annapolis); Sadie Cloud (Easton); Thomas “Tom” de los Reyes (Annapolis) History Award; Céline Denat (Switzerland) Immersion Award; Charles Evans (Chester); Grace Evans (Chester); Olivia Faff (Easton); Xuanyao “Henry” Feng (Centreville); Jenna Frederick (Grasonville); Alanna Grace (Centreville); Catherine Hansen (Cambridge); Natalie Henry (Centreville); Cooper Hightower (Stevensville); Sarah “Eli” Ireland (Centreville) Environmental Stewardship Award; Nicolás “Nico” Izquierdo (Spain); Thomas “Cy” Johnston (Severna Park); Paget Kellogg (Oxford); Ian Kissel (Annapolis); Tess Kontarinis (Wittman) Fine Art Award; Katherine “Kate” Kroncke (Grasonville) 12 Star Award; Paige Kroncke (Grasonville) 12 Star Award; Aiden Lafferty (Chestertown); Garrett Lang (Trappe); Jennie LaTorre (Chester); YaXin “Angelina” Lin (Middletown, Del.) Diversity Leadership Award, Literature Award; Virginia “Ella” MacGlashan (Centreville); Julia McClary (Warwick) The Anita Gruss Athletic Award, 12 Star Award; Calla McCluskey (Centreville) Theater Award; Ava Melvin (Ridgely); Zacharia “Zach” Mozher (Middletown, Del.) Valedictorian (Middleton) Award, Spanish Award, 12 Star Award, National Merit Finalist; Christopher “Bates” Nittle (Easton) Music Award; Elizabeth “Lane” Parkhurst (Centreville) Leadership Award; Grace Anne Phillips (Stevensville); Miranda Pope (Port Tobacco); Nathan Porter (Centreville); Julia Reed (Chestertown); Damian René (Easton) The Gunston Award, Engineering Award, National Merit Commended Scholar; Andrew Rich (Annapolis), Mekonnen Sahle-Selassie (Easton) The Anita Gruss Athletic Award, 12 Star Award, NROTC Award; Aaron Sanderson (Annapolis) 12 Star Award, Merchant Marine Academy Award; MacKenzie Smith (Stevensville) English Award, Senior Paradigm Winner; William Stuart (Oxford); Finnegan “Finn” Theeke (Easton) Music Award; Liam Thomas (Arnold); Aidan Trautman (Centreville) Moore Award for Improvement; Brielle Tyler (Denton); Isabelle Wagner (Chestertown) Community Service Award, 12 Star Award; Autumn Watson, (Centreville) Computer Science Award, 12 Star Award; Yining Wei (China); Oliver White (Easton) 12 Star Award, NROTC Award; Jiacheng “Jason” Ye (China); and Linze “Alfred” Zhao (China).

Founded in 1911, The Gunston School is an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian, coeducational, college preparatory high school located on 75 waterfront acres in Centreville, Maryland. Visit gunston.org for more information. 

Pictured standing left (l-r) is commencement speaker Johnny O’Brien, Head of School John Lewis, and pictured standing right (l-r) is Assistant Head of School Christie Grabis and Gunston’s Chair of the Board Patrick Shoemaker ’03. Not pictured is Nicolás “Nico” Izquierdo (Spain).

Students (l-r)
Front Row: MacKenzie Smith (Stevensville), Autumn Watson, (Centreville), Olivia Faff (Easton), Ava Melvin (Ridgely), Julia McClary (Warwick), Virginia “Ella” MacGlashan (Centreville), Alanna Grace (Centreville); Katelyn “Kate” Campbell (Centreville),  Jenna Frederick (Grasonville), Calla McCluskey (Centreville), Katherine “Kate” Kroncke (Grasonville), Jennie LaTorre (Chester), and Olivia Amygdalos (Wyoming, Del.). 

Second Row: Natalie Henry (Centreville), Grace Anne Phillips (Stevensville), YaXin “Angelina” Lin (Middletown, Del.), Sarah “Eli” Ireland (Centreville), Catherine Hansen (Cambridge), Julia Reed (Chestertown), Céline Denat (Switzerland), Sadie Cloud (Easton), Madilyn “Maddie” Algier (Easton), Elizabeth “Lane” Parkhurst (Centreville), Brielle Tyler (Denton), Paige Kroncke (Grasonville), and Miranda Pope (Port Tobacco). 

Third Row: Julia Buchanan (Centreville), Tess Kontarinis (Wittman), Grace Evans (Chester), Xuanyao “Henry” Feng (Centreville), Jiacheng “Jason” Ye (China), Aaron Sanderson (Annapolis), Paget Kellogg (Oxford), Zachary “Zack” Adams (Centreville), Kelby Booth (Denton), McKinsey Brown (Centreville), and Isabelle Wagner (Chestertown).

Fourth Row: Yining Wei (China), Linze “Alfred” Zhao (China), Finnegan “Finn” Theeke (Easton), Aiden Lafferty (Chestertown), William Stuart (Oxford), Ian Kissel (Annapolis), Nathan Porter (Centreville), Thomas “Tom” de los Reyes (Annapolis), Nicasio “Nick” Ceruolo (Annapolis), Aidan Trautman (Centreville), and Thomas “Cy” Johnston (Severna Park). 

Fifth Row: Liam Thomas (Arnold), Nicholas “Nick” Abell (Crownsville), Andrew Rich (Annapolis), Garrett Lang (Trappe), Christopher “Bates” Nittle (Easton), Mekonnen Sahle-Selassie (Easton), Damian René (Easton), Oliver White (Easton), Charles Evans (Chester), Cooper Hightower (Stevensville), and Zacharia “Zach” Mozher (Middletown, Del.).

This year’s valedictorian honor (also called the Samuel A. Middleton Award) was bestowed upon Zacharia (Zach) Mozher of Middletown, Del. (pictured right) with Gunston Head of School John Lewis.

Assistant Head of School Christie Grabis presents the The Gunson Award to Damian René of Easton, Md., pictured left with Mrs. Grabis.

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Joe Cusimano ’12 Inducted Into Gunston Athletic Hall of Fame

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On Tuesday, May 16, The Gunston School inducted Joe Cusimano ’12 to the Athletic Hall of Fame for his exceptional performances in soccer, basketball, and lacrosse during his time at the school. His long list of accomplishments include being the boys lacrosse record-holder for career scoring with 205 goals and 75 assists. In a single season, he holds the number one record with 79 goals and 23 assists during the 2011 season. In 2010, 2011, and 2012 he was named Gunston’s MVP. During his senior season, he was selected as the Varsity Lacrosse Captain and as the winner of the Bob Scott Award, given to a lacrosse player who exemplifies teamwork, sportsmanship and citizenship.

Cusimano, originally from Centreville, Md., is also known for how he stacked up among other athletes on the Eastern Shore. He made the ESIAC Lacrosse All Conference 1st team twice (2011 and 2012). In 2010, he was a part of the ESIAC All Conference 2nd team. He was awarded ESIAC Player of the Year in 2012. Aside from his work in lacrosse, in 2009, Joe was selected to be the Junior Varsity Basketball Captain. He also was a part of the ESIAC All Conference 1st Team for Soccer in 2009 and 2010. Gunston welcomed former teacher, coach and fellow Gunston Hall-of-Famer Ned Southworth to present the award who described Cusimano’s many accomplishments.

After accepting his award, Cusimano thanked his family, his coach, teammates, teachers, and Gunston’s former Athletic Director Anita Gruss. “Earning this award means a lot to me. I can truly say I wouldn’t be where I am today without Gunston and sports and the people that enjoyed them with me during the four years I was here. Lacrosse and Gunston Athletics gave me a time to shine and […] helped me develop some of the most important skills in life. It allowed me to become a teammate, a leader, a problem solver, and taught me how to succeed and make the most of every opportunity, even when we weren’t always winning. Gunston enabled me to develop the attributes that got me through college at Auburn, my first and second job, and now has been a large contributor to a very successful business that I’ve recently created with my partners. […] It’s an honor to be back here.”

Photo: On Tuesday, May 16, The Gunston School inducted Joe Cusimano ’12 to the Athletic Hall of Fame for his exceptional performances in soccer, basketball, and lacrosse. Former Gunston teacher, coach and fellow Hall-of-Famer Ned Southworth presented the award. Pictured (l-r) Head of School John Lewis, Ned Southworth, Bobbie Cusimano, Joe Cusimano, Michael Cusimano III, Michael Cusimano Jr., Vince Cusimano, Patrick Gillespie ’09, Former Director of Athletics Anita Gruss, and pictured in front is Maria (Cusimano) Gillespie ’10 and Caroline Gillespie.

After graduating from Gunston, Cusimano went on to play lacrosse at Auburn University where he was named Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association (MCLA) Honorable Mention All-Conference Attack, SouthEastern Lacrosse Conference (SELC) Player of the Year & SELC Rookie of the Year all in 2013. Joe graduated from Auburn University in 2016 and now is a Certified Public Accountant for a Financial Group in the Washington, DC area.

Gunston’s Athletic Hall of Fame was established to honor and recognize those individuals who, through their accomplishments, have brought pride and distinction to Gunston and the community as either an athlete, coach, administrator, or contributor to the success and development of Gunston’s athletic program.

Founded in 1911, The Gunston School is an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian, coeducational, college preparatory high school located in Centreville, Maryland. Visit gunston.org for more information.

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Gunston Seniors Honored in National Merit Scholarship Program

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The Gunston School is pleased to announce that three members of the graduating class of 2023 have earned recognition from the National Merit Scholarship Program. Nicholas (Nick) Abell of Crownsville, Md., and Damian René of Easton, Md., received commendations, an acknowledgement given to students who participate in the program and demonstrate exceptional academic ability, recognizing their outstanding performance.

Additionally, Zacharia (Zach) Mozher of Middletown, Del., was named a National Merit finalist, a prestigious designation that places him among the top 15,000 students in the country, representing less than one percent of high school seniors.

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual competition that honors academically gifted students across the United States. It recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) and have exhibited remarkable potential for future success.

Pictured (l-r) Assistant Head of School Christie Grabis, Damian René, Zach Mozher, Nick Abell and Head of School John Lewis.

Nick is headed to Furman University to study mathematics, Zach is headed to Princeton University to study medicine, and Damian René is headed to Swarthmore College to study computer science and cognitive science.

Founded in 1911, The Gunston School is an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian, coeducational, college preparatory high school located in Centreville, Maryland. Visit gunston.org for more information.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Golfing Fore Gunston IV Welcomes Golfers, Pickleball & Tennis Players

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The Golfing “fore” Gunston IV fundraiser on Monday, May 1 at the Prospect Bay Country Club in Grasonville welcomed 101 golfers including Gunston alumni, parents, past parents, and community supporters. A 9 a.m. shotgun start began the day, with teams competing for prizes while enjoying food, drinks and fun give-aways.

The day’s winners include: Men’s First Place with a score of -19, Creg Fleetwood, Casey Grieves, Barton Shaw and Brian Bowser, and Women’s First Place/Mixed with a score of -10, Dane and Mary Ways, P’18 and Chuck and Jen Batchelder received prizes of Yeti Carryall totes and gift certificates to Prospect Bay’s pro shop. 

The Fleetwood Insurance Group, (l-r) Brian Bowser, Barton Shaw, Creg Fleetwood, and Casey Grieves earned Men’s First Place. Creg Fleetwood also won Men’s Longest Drive.

The winner of the Men’s Longest Drive was Creg Fleetwood, and for Women’s Longest Drive, the winner was Vicki Dean with a prize of a MV2 Golf bag. Men’s Closest to the Pin winner was George Subioni, with a prize of a Prospect Bay Foursome and Women’s Closest to the Pin winner was Chesley Nonemaker, P’27 with a prize of a brand new Bat-Caddy X3R electric cart. Last Place Winners were Sean Matthews, Tyler King, and Michelle and Chip Compton, with a prize of brand new pickleball racquets and ball and Dick’s Sporting Goods gift certificates.

While golfers enjoyed their day on the links, other guests enjoyed both tennis and a lively pickleball match, “Dinking for Gunston,” organized by the Hallmark Family, P’24. “Not everyone golfs so we wanted to make sure we included other options for people to show their support. Pickleball was very successful this year and we can’t wait to incorporate it into next year’s event as well,” said Gunston’s Director of Events Lynda Scull. 

Additionally, a concurrently running online silent auction, the Gunston Biddersnest, offered items such as golf packages, a weekend getaway, photography sessions and more. Together, the golf tournament and the auction raised close to $30,000 toward Gunston’s annual giving program, which allows the school the ability to offer more than 60% of its students financial aid, provide additional enrichment and hands-on opportunities that extend beyond the classroom for both students and faculty, and more. 

“This is an amazing event,” said Gray Shannahan ’05, one of the event’s tournament sponsors and Gunston Alum. “You know, it wasn’t until I got out of college that I realized how special a place Gunston really is. Who else gets to go to a high school that’s on the water? […] It’s just really an amazing school and community and we’re excited to see the wonderful stuff you have planned for the future.”

“I really want to thank our volunteers who help us put on these wonderful events,” shared Gunston’s Head of School John Lewis. “They offer their time, their support, and it just means the world to both myself and the entire community.”

Mary Ways, P’18, Jen Batchelder, Dane Ways, P’18 and Chuck Batchelder were the Women’s First Place/Mixed winners with a score of -10 pictured here with Head of School John Lewis (center).

Event Sponsors included Tournament Sponsors Atlantic Cruising Yachts (Dawn & Christian Bent, P’25 ’27), Fred Frederick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Easton (Janell & Jeffrey Frederick, P ’23 ’25), Dani & Rick de los Reyes, P’23, Palmieri & Shannahan Financial Planning (Gray Shannahan ’05) and What’s Up? Media Company. The Crush Station was sponsored by Easton Dermatology Associates, LLC (Brigitte & Dr. Donald Stanahan, P’25 ’27) and the Grilling Station was sponsored by “Friends of Gunston.” Ceremony sponsors include Gillespie & Son, Inc. (The Gillespie Family, P’07 ’09 ’20 ’22 ’24) and Molly’s Place Sporting Goods (Nick & Katie Shajwani, P’26). Refreshment sponsors include Mirando Chiropractic Center (Kristy & Dominick Mirando, P’25), Dr. Laurie Lewis and John Lewis, Shore United Bank, Kent School, Callahan’s Gas & Appliance (Dana & Mark Callahan, P’22), Dogwood Acres (Audrey & Kurt Reichardt, P’21), and The Country School.

Contest sponsors include Ms. Alice Ryan ’75, the Shifrin Family, P’21 and the Radcliffe Creek School. 

Hole sponsors include RBC Wealth Management, Hoyas ’94, McCrone Hartwell Engineering, R&D Electric, Queenstown Bank, the Algier Family, P’23 ’26, the Sanderson Family, P’22 ’23, Gunther McClary Real Estate, Moorhouse Electrical Services and Long & Foster Real Estate (Dane Ways, P’18).

A special thanks to Premium Distributors of Maryland, Centreville, for providing drinks and refreshments.

Gunston Biddersnest Auction Donors: Links at Perry Cabin, Prospect Bay Country Club, Serino Orthodontics, New York Vacation (Karen Pupke, P’25), Gunston School Experiences, ReFocus Studios, and Chester River Country Club (Dan Philippon, P’25).

Founded in 1911, The Gunston School is an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian, coeducational, college preparatory high school located in Centreville, Maryland. Visit gunston.org for more information.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Gunston College-Bound Athletes Comprise 15% of Class of 2023

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The Gunston School is pleased to announce that three more members of the class of 2023 have signed their letters of intent to play sports at the college level, for a total of 9 students and 15% of the senior class, beating the national average for the second year in a row. At a recent signing ceremony this past Wednesday, April 26, students and their families along with coaches and faculty gathered in the Alice R. Ryan Family Library to celebrate their accomplishments. Nationwide, a little over 7% of high school athletes (about 1 in 13) go on to play a varsity sport in college and less than 2% of high school athletes (1 in 57) go on to play at NCAA Division I schools.

Miranda Pope of Port Tobacco, Md. will be cheering for High Point University. Pope is an integral member of Cheer Extreme All Stars—Maryland, where she was named both MVP and Captain, winning “The One and The Worlds” competition in 2021. Most recently, she led her team to the Level 6 World Championship in Florida at the ESPN World Wide of Sports Competition in 2022.

Gunston’s College Guidance Co-Director Tony D’Antonio commented, “Miranda has what I call a NEVER GIVE UP approach to THINGS. We all face setbacks and obstacles along the way, but it’s how we respond to these challenges that defines us. Over this past year, I have had many meetings with Miranda as she has remained focused on her academic progress and her college application process. This focus has earned Miranda offers of admission to Auburn, Ole Miss, Palm Beach Atlantic, and of course, where she will be competing as an NCAA Division I Cheerleader—at High Point University.” In addition to cheer, Pope played volleyball and lacrosse at Gunston.

Aaron Sanderson of Annapolis, Md. will be playing soccer for the United States Merchant Marine Academy. Sanderson began playing the sport at age four, joining his first club travel team (Maryland United FC) at age 10, in addition to playing for Gunston. “I was originally interested in USMMA for the education and the opportunities I would have after college,  but being able to play on their soccer team made me want to go there even more,” he said.

“Aaron’s commitment, work ethic, and leadership had a tremendous positive impact on our soccer program and on his teammates,” said Juan Angarita, Gunston’s Head Coach for Boys Varsity Soccer and faculty member. “In his early years at Gunston, Aaron quickly became a pillar of strength for our varsity team.  Not only did he display an exceptional aptitude as a goalie, but he impressed the coaches and teammates with his outstanding foot skills. […] During the fall of 2021, Aaron scored 6 goals and in the fall of 2022 he scored 8 goals. In both seasons he also had more than 10 assists. Undoubtedly,  his leadership and ability on the pitch helped our team reach the championship game two years in a row. As a result, Aaron was selected for the ESIAC all conference team for both seasons and in his last season he received the coach’s award.”

Aidan Trautman of Centreville, Md. will be running cross country for Emory and Henry College. Trautman joined what was then a newly-formed cross country team at Gunston in his ninth grade year. At the time, he was also involved in travel baseball but decided to shift his focus to cross country training. Additionally, Trautman has also participated in the Triathlon program.

Gunston’s Cross Country and Triathlon Coach Bobby Stephenson said, “I once explained a very simple mantra to the cross country team and Aidan is the embodiment of that mantra: If you want to run fast, you have to run fast! Aidan absolutely took this to heart and for him what it really means is that you have to work really hard to achieve your goals. […] The transformation that Aidan has made from his [ninth grade] year to now is astonishing and that transformation is entirely the product of goal-setting. Each year Aidan has shown up with very clear goals, both for himself and for the team, and each year he has achieved those goals, from running a sub-20 minute 5K his sophomore year (check), winning a conference championship (check, twice), earning all-conference honors (check, three times) to a goal that he’s set for himself just three days from now, to run a sub-17 minute 5K. He’s been a role model for his teammates in this way and he’s become a leader that is irreplaceable.”

“I’m most looking forward to the incredible experience that Emory & Henry has to offer. From the entirely new environment, the awesome teachers I’ve already met, to the new cross country team I get to work with, I look forward to spending my college experience and my next few years there,” said Trautman.

Photo: (seated, l-r) Gunston seniors Aaron Sanderson (Annapolis, Md.), Miranda Pope (Port Tobacco, Md.) and Aidan Trautman (Centreville, Md.) Pictured (standing, l-r) Gunston’s Director of Athletics Josh Breto, Gunston Faculty & Coach Juan Angarita, Bob Sanderson, Michelle Montalbano, Gunston’s Co-Director of College Guidance Tony D’Antonio, Naté Pope, Charlie Stinchcomb & Jean Stephens Stinchcomb, Tiffany and Brian Trautman and Gunston Faculty & Coach Bobby Stephenson. 

The Gunston School Athletics Program has 19 interscholastic teams, as well as several recreational athletic offerings. Founded in 1911, The Gunston School is an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian, coeducational, college preparatory high school located in Centreville, Maryland. Visit gunston.org for more information. 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.