Atrium 4 - Gulliver Schools

SU M M E R 2 00 5
a magazine for friends and alumni
the atrium
Director
Marian Krutulis
Associate Director
John Krutulis
Director of Alumni Relations
Laura Sochet Keepax ‘85
Director of Communications
and Public Relations
Jennifer Vaida
Director of Institutional Advancement
Rory Manaro
Director of School Relations
Linda Fitzgerald
Communications Specialist
Marcy Connor
Contributing Writers
Marcy Connor
Jason Gutman ‘92
Jennifer Vaida
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From the Communications Desk
4
Message from the Director
6
2005 College Acceptances
7
Faculty Profile - Christine Lush-Rodriguez
Alumni Perspective - Jason Gutman ‘92
8, 9, & 10
11
contents
Q & A with Eduardo Saverin ‘01
12 & 13
51 Years of Excellence
14 & 15
Administrative Profile - John McClosky
News Around Campus
the atrium is published twice a year by the Gulliver
Schools’ Office of Communications and Public
Relations and is distributed free of charge to all
Gulliver alumni, parents, friends, and staff.
16, 17, & 18
19 to 28
Message from the Alumni Director
28
Alumni News
29
Alumni Spotlight - Stephanie Gilewicz ‘02
29
Alumni Profile - Blake Ross ‘03
Photo Gallery of 2005 Alumni Events
30, 31. & 32
33
Contributions of photographs and articles are
encouraged; items submitted, however, will not
be returned. Readers are encouraged to submit
comments, questions, and suggestions.
Alumni Career Workshops
Gulliver Schools is a private, non-profit, 501 (c) 3
independent, coeducational, nonsectarian day school.
Upcoming Alumni Events
39
the atrium Art Gallery
40
ID SC13012
Alumni Roll Call
34 & 35
36, 37, & 38
From the
Communications Desk
It’s finally summer! This doesn’t mean, however, that Gulliver is a quiet place. In fact, Camp
Gulliver is in full swing, with over 250 kids from the South Florida area enjoying swimming, arts
and crafts, sports, drama, and even the occasional pony ride at our Academy Campus. Several
students are attending our Summer Studies program for general reinforcement and advancement,
and administrators are hard at work already preparing for the 2005-2006 school year.
Before we get ahead of ourselves though, let’s take a look at 2004-2005 at Gulliver. Upon
Jennifer Vaida with Marcy Connor, communications
specialist, and Laura Keepax, alumni director
arriving back from winter break, students and faculty members immediately rallied the troops to
start major fundraising drives for the devastating tsunami in Southeast Asia. This kicked off what
was to become a tremendous outpouring on the part of the Gulliver family to give to those in need. When Gulliver lost two of its
dearest family members, Carol Paul and Sharon Schosberg, to cancer, students and teachers organized drives and jeans days
to raise money for cancer research and awareness. Educating responsible world citizens is our highest priority, and it makes us
proud to see the truly compassionate and capable nature of our students.
In this summer issue of the atrium, you’ll get to know some of our most beloved teachers, administrators, and students, the
amazing accomplishments of our alumni, and where many of our most recent grads will be attending college. This year, our
students were awarded over eight million dollars in scholarships! Their success is the combined efforts of parents, teachers,
administrators, counselors, and the students themselves.
You’ll also help us bid farewell to some of our longtime employees, whom we will miss but will not be forgotten. Their
contributions to Gulliver will become part of its legacy, and the future generation of students also will benefit from the part of
them that they leave behind.
Here’s to a happy and healthy end of summer. Don’t forget to visit us at Ocean Reef on July 22-24. You won’t want to
miss it!
Jennifer Vaida
Director of Communications and Public Relations
4
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Gulliver Alumni Get-Away Weekend
Ocean Reef Club - July 22-24, 2005
Connect with Gulliver friends,
both old and new, surrounded by nature’s splendor on the edge of the Atlantic, amidst 4,000 lush tropical acres.
Come join us just for the day, or enjoy the weekend at one of Florida’s most exclusive private resorts,
where we will be honoring the classes of ‘75, ‘80, ‘85, ‘90, ‘95, & ‘00.
Come sail away with Gulliver’s exclusive Construct-A-Craft Regatta Competition. Teams are given a kit of materials
to build a seaworthy vessel, then race against each other across the lagoon. Adults and children welcome.
Schedule of Events
Children's Activities
Friday, July 22, 2005
Saturday, July 23, 2005 (cont.)
Saturday, July 23, 2005
2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Registration and Check-In,
Main Lobby
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Gulliver Construct-A-Craft Regatta,
Lagoon Beach
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Welcome Reception,
Golf Clubhouse
(Children are welcome.)
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Cocktail Reception,
Town Hall by the Tennis Courts
Adults only - please no children.*
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Ocean Reef Club Kids Camp,
ages 3 - 12. Register at ext. 5931.
Half Day, $55 per child
Full Day, $75 per child
Saturday, July 23, 2005
7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Reunion Dinner,
Town Hall Reception Room
Adults only - please no children.*
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Registration and Check-In,
Main Lobby
12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
BBQ Lunch,
Lagoon Marlin Side
For those celebrating 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and
30 year reunions only
(Children are welcome.)
10:00 a.m. - Feed the Fish,
Buccaneer Island Lagoon (All Ages)
11:00 a.m. - Face Painting,
Buccaneer Island (All Ages)
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Gulliver Construct-A-Craft Regatta,
Lagoon Beach
Sunday, July 24, 2005
11:00 a.m.
Departure
5:45 p.m. - 10:15 p.m.
Ocean Reef Club Kid's Camp
(See details below.)
Gulliver Reduced Fee, $45 per child
ALL EVENTS ARE OPTIONAL
*We have arranged a 4 1/2-hour Kids Camp that includes dinner, theme games, crafts, theme souvenirs, and great memories ($45 per child).
Additional baby-sitting and Kids Camp services are available through Ocean Reef. Please call 305-367-2611.
For further information, contact Laura Keepax at 305-666-7937, ext. 479, or by e-mail at keel@gulliverschools.org.
The
Director’s Report
Mrs. K at “K Square” Dedication in February with Gulliver moms
Nereida DiPauli, Marina Klein, Karen Escalona, and, Bunny Hamer
Gulliver has enjoyed an excellent year with many outstanding student successes in
academics, arts, and athletics. One special highlight was the invitation received by the Prep
music department and our superb Performing Arts Chairman Ron Castonguay to appear at
Carnegie Hall in New York City. Our Prep musicians realized an experience they and their
parents will never forget. Their performance was absolutely incredible!
While the Prep musicians were in New York for their appearance at Carnegie Hall, Gulliver alumni gathered in John and
Amy Phelan’s company boardroom, which they graciously made available. It was wonderful to see the many alumni who had
taken the opportunity to join fellow graduates. I plan to hold alumni gatherings in other areas of the country where former
Gulliver students have made their homes. It is rewarding and most pleasurable to catch up with old friends and to hear of their
many and varied accomplishments and the impact a Gulliver education has had on their lives.
We continue to reach for our goal of building the new pool and gymnasium, both of which will offer so many advantages to
students on all of our campuses. Some of you may have a particular person for whom you would like to have a building or
activity named, and our upcoming fundraising campaign will make that opportunity available to you in the near future.
I send my thanks to our parents, who have supported us so unselfishly, ensuring that Gulliver students receive the very best
from their school experiences. I also want to congratulate the class of 2005 for their many academic and extracurricular
achievements, all of which made demands on their busy schedules. I am inordinately proud of each one of them, and I wish
them the best of luck.
Sincerely,
Marian Krutulis
Director
6
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Class of 2005
College Acceptances
Indiana University
University of Florida
Johns Hopkins University
University of Maryland
Lehigh University
University of Miami
Loyola University/Chicago
University of Miami/School of Music
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
University of Michigan
New York University
University of Monaco
New York University/School of Music
University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill
Amherst College
Northeastern University
University of Notre Dame
Barry University
Northwestern University
University of Pennsylvania
Boston College
Princeton University
University of Richmond
Boston University
Providence College
University of Rochester/Eastman School of
Boston University/School of Music
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Brown University
Rhode Island School Design
University of South Florida/New College
Carnegie Mellon University
School of the Museum of Fine Arts
University of Texas/Austin
Case Western Reserve University
Skidmore College
University of the Arts/London
College of William and Mary
Southern Methodist University
University of Vermont
Colorado College
Stanford University
University of Virginia
Columbia University
Stetson University
University of Warwick
Cornell University
Swarthmore College
University of Washington
Dartmouth College
Tufts University
University of Wisconsin/Madison
Duke University
Tulane University
Vanderbilt University
Elon University
UCLA/San Diego
Washington and Lee University
Emory University
Union College
Washington University
Fairfield University
United States Military Academy
Wesleyan University
Florida International University
United States Naval Academy
Yale University
George Washington University
University of California/San Diego
Georgetown University
University of California/Berkeley
Georgia Institute of Technology
University of Central Florida/Honors College
Harvard University
University of Colorado/Boulder
Below is a comprehensive list of colleges
and universities to which the top 30
percent of Gulliver Schools’ Class of
2005 were accepted. We send all of our
graduates best wishes for a successful
and enjoyable freshman year.
Music
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7
{Faculty Profile}
O
n a trip out west last summer,
Pennsylvania upbringing, the move to St. Croix
Christine Lush-Rodriguez, ceramics
marked a revelation in her artistic development.
teacher at Gulliver Prep for the past
bright colors and bold flowers of the tropics
cactus. This rough form of vegetation, that
influenced and molded Lush-Rodriguez’s style.
thrives in arid weather and often is harmful to
Further inspiration from artists such as Georgia
the touch, may seem to deny inspiration, but
O’Keefe, who is best known for her magnified
not for Lush-Rodriguez. It is this innate longing
floral paintings, shaped her progress as an artist.
and ability to see the beauty in the unusual that
Today, Lush-Rodriguez recombines parts of plant
empowered her to begin her career in a foreign
and oceanic life forms to create unique “Fruitoid”
world, far away from familiar surroundings and
ceramic sculptures.
After graduating with a teaching degree from
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As a budding young artist in the Islands, the
12 years, was completely taken with the
common influences.
8
Christine
Working late nights and weekends in her
home-based studio, Lush-Rodriguez begins her
Kutztown University in 1984, Lush-Rodriguez
creations on a pottery wheel. From there, she
landed her first job in St. Croix, Virgin Islands.
manipulates and enhances them by adding
With a one-way ticket and three suitcases in
moldings and other carvings to create the final
hand, she left the States to teach seventh grade
piece. While her influence comes from nature,
art at a public middle school. A far cry from her
she allows the clay to direct her sculptures by
Lush-Rodriguez
“
I want my students to be able to turn
inspiration into something of their own, thus
“
developing a high level of craftsmanship,
originality, and uniqueness.
combining various elements into something
place for ceramics at the Miami Beach Festival of
entirely original, essentially forming clay
the Arts and first place for sculpture at the Beaux
manifestations of her imagination. “I am driven by
Arts Festival.
a desire to elicit new life forms,” she says.
These impressive honors and awards set
the past two years.
Aside from the example she sets for her
students, Lush-Rodriguez provides opportunities for
them to use art to reach out to the community.
These distinctive “Fruitoids” not only have
Lush-Rodriguez apart as an accomplished artist.
That’s why she established the Gulliver Mud Club, a
defined Lush-Rodriguez as an artist, but also have
Such recognition allows her students to see that
campus organization that sells handmade pots and
earned her recognition at art festivals across the
she actually applies what she teaches in class.
other artwork to raise money for the Southwest
nation. One of her pieces recently was chosen to
“I want my students to be able to turn inspiration
Indian Foundation. This past December, the club
appear in the 2005 International Small Works
into something of their own, thus developing a
raised more than $1,100 through their holiday
Show in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Another piece
high level of craftsmanship, originality, and
pottery sale, which provided three wooden heaters
entitled “Purple Cactus” won the Bonnie Waugh
uniqueness,” says Lush-Rodriguez.
and five food baskets to poor Indian families in the
Memorial Award at the Ceramic League of Miami’s
Annual Members Show this past February.
In addition to these recent accolades,
This visualization also helps them to
appreciate the artwork of others when they see
southwestern United States.
In addition to the Mud Club, Lush-Rodriguez
the time and effort their teacher puts into her
also helped to start the teacher-organized Gulliver
Lush-Rodriguez’s handmade tile designs, located
creations. “She’s a really great inspiration because
Archaeological Trust. For the past eight years,
on the exterior of her home, will be published in
she actually gets involved with our projects, and
this group of teachers has researched a
a “Handmade Tiles” book to be released this
her artwork is amazing,” says sophomore Nicole
summer. Over the last year, she also won first
Chin, a student in Lush-Rodriguez’s class for
{continued on next page}
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9
{Faculty Profile}
As both a superior educator and an
award-winning artist, Lush-Rodriguez not only
sets an unprecedented example for her
students to follow, but also has made a name
for herself in the artistic arena.
particular culture and coordinated a mock
archaeological dig to encourage student
discovery. Lush-Rodriguez is responsible for
creating clay reproductions of actual pottery
artifacts and human remains to tell the story of the
culture being studied.
Her involvement with these projects, in
addition to her time spent in the classroom and on
her own artwork, deems her an incredible asset to
the stellar visual arts department at Gulliver Prep.
According to Department Chair Laurie Deane,
“Christine is the kind of person who can really
multi-task. She’s a full-time teacher and mother,
as well as an artist. I think she does it all with a
lot of grace.”
As both a superior educator and an
award-winning artist, Lush-Rodriguez not only sets
10
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an unprecedented example for her students to
career and her personal artistic accomplishments
follow, but also has made a name for herself in
has made her a success and an inspiration to her
the artistic arena. This dedication to both her
a
students and fellow colleagues. ■
Alumni
Perspective
Jason Gutman ‘92
of Southern California
includes helping Michael Chiklis to land the star
(USC), where I studied
role in the television series “The Shield,” for
film and theater. I
which he won Emmy and Golden Globe
remember Ms. Kravetz
Awards. Another client, Brian F. O’Byrne, was
(retired Prep director of
cast in the Broadway play Frozen, for which he
guidance and college counseling) telling me
In 1979, at the age of five, I began my
USC would be the perfect fit, and of course,
After all this, Gulliver has remained a
she was exactly right. During my sophomore
significant part of my life. I still keep in touch
year, I was cast in the film Dangerous Minds
education at Gulliver Academy as a student in
starring Michelle Pfeiffer. Eight months later,
Mrs. Blandz’s kindergarten class. That year, I
however, I learned that my scenes had been cut
remember making an important decision: one
from the movie. Unfortunately, my big break
day, I would go to Hollywood to become a
wasn’t going to come so easy.
movie star. Twenty-six years later, I am not a
My focus soon turned towards an aspect
movie star, but I did make it to Hollywood and
of the entertainment industry where I would
eventually to New York City, where I currently
be able to exhibit greater control over my
work as a talent agent.
future. Within a week of graduating from
Without the education I received during my
won a Tony Award.
college, I began the Agent Trainee Program at
“In all sincerity, Gulliver enriched my life
in so many aspects. Not only was I
taught the fundamentals of acting, music,
and art, but I also was encouraged to
chase my ambition and given the
resources to realize my aspirations with
confidence and maturity.”
thirteen memorable years at Gulliver, I would not
International Creative Management (ICM) in
have found my place in the entertainment
Beverly Hills, where I worked for some of the
with many old friends and often cross paths
industry and been equipped to handle the
most powerful agents in show business and
with other alumni who have shared the Gulliver
challenges I face every day. In all sincerity,
learned the fundamentals of guiding an actor’s
experience. When I look back, I am thankful for
Gulliver enriched my life in so many aspects.
career. In 1999, I became an agent at Writers
the inspirational instruction and discipline of
Not only was I taught the fundamentals of
and Artists Agency, which eventually led me
educators like Mrs. Krutulis, Mrs. Graham, Mr.
acting, music, and art, but I also was
to The Gersh Agency in New York City in
Woodbury, Ms. Fitzgerald, and Mrs. Schmidt, all
encouraged to chase my ambition and given the
2002, Hollywood’s second-oldest talent and
of whom made a contribution to my life that
resources to realize my aspirations with
literary organization.
remains with me today. ■
a
confidence and maturity.
Upon graduating from Gulliver in 1992, I
moved to Los Angeles to attend the University
Over the years, I have worked with many
talented actors, writers, producers, and
directors. One of my proudest moments
If you’d like to contribute an alumni perspective to the atrium, please send your idea and
contact information to vaidaj@gulliverschools.org.
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11
QA
&
with
EduardoMastermind
Saverin
’01,
Behind Thefacebook.com
Eduardo Saverin in 2001,
as a Gulliver senior
IN FEBRUARY OF 2004, TWO HARVARD STUDENTS,
GULLIVER ALUMNUS EDUARDO SAVERIN AND HIS
FRIEND MARK ZUCKERBERG, CREATED AN ONLINE
DIRECTORY FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS THAT HAS
SPREAD TO MORE THAN 2.7 MILLION USERS AT
Q- Unless you’re a college student or recent college
graduate, many people don’t really know what the
Thefacebook is all about. Can you give me a condensed
version of the site’s purpose and function?
A- Thefacebook is a large college network aggregated for student access. The basic
concept is that students create online accounts using their university e-mail addresses,
then they develop a profile of who they are, which includes a picture, their status in
school, where they’re from, their interests, current courses, groups they belong to – just
enough information to give an overall sense of themselves. In addition to being a useful
directory, there are more interactive features like adding virtual “friends,” joining groups
that mock real associations, publicizing parties and events, and forming study groups.
800 CAMPUSES ACROSS THE COUNTRY.
Q- What made you decide to try something like this?
A- We recognized that Harvard didn’t have a universal database, so at first we
developed a listing of names and pictures on a very simplistic level. We clearly
understood what was missing: a way for students to outlook their daily lives that brought
a sense of cohesion to their academic and social interactions. We figured, “Why not
make sociability more efficient?” So that’s what we were thinking at that point.
Q- How did it move beyond Harvard to other colleges and
universities all over the country?
A- Within less than one month, more than 80 percent of Harvard students had signed
up to use Thefacebook. So, we decided to expand as an isolated unit to other schools,
meaning that students could only access the profiles of other students at their same
school. We eventually expanded the site to include remote search access of other
colleges and universities.
Eduardo Saverin in 2005
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Q- Why do you think Thefacebook has grown so
dramatically in such a short time?
A- Thefacebook came out of dire need to make interactions more efficient and
available, which is what this network does. It enriches the college experience by
enabling students to connect with people and build wider friendship circles. Essentially,
it allows students to do exactly what they want to do in college and it takes care of
some geographical separation issues too.
Q- Can you give us some idea of how
big you’re talking here?
A- Now that we’ve really started developing the network,
we have close to three billion page views per month,
which is the most remarkable factor. We also have an
extremely high retention rate, with 65 percent of network
users visiting the site daily and 95 percent coming back
on a monthly basis.
Q- What has been your role in getting
Thefacebook off the ground?
A- Basically, Mark is the tech guy, and I’m the business
guy. As one of the original founders, I headed business
development from day one, including securing investors,
hiring employees, and inducing product innovation to
make Thefacebook a more interactive portal.
Q- So what are your goals for
TheFacebook from here?
A- I really hope the site will become a powerful, constant
utility for its users. The short term goal is to get all the
colleges and universities in the U.S. on board and then
eventually expand abroad. We hope to evolve our user
base as well as the utility of the site to continuously make
it as functional as possible. It’s all just grown extremely
fast, so we’ll see what the future holds.
Q- Now, let’s get more personal. What
are your goals?
A- Since I took this semester off from school to
concentrate on Thefacebook, I’ll be graduating in January
with a degree in Economics with Honors. I am
completely intrigued with business and the process of
taking ideas to execution. I know I’ll always want to be
involved in the business sphere, particularly with
Thefacebook, for as long as is imaginable. It’s still early
on in my life, and there’s a lot to see and do. I just know
I want to keep understanding business.
Q- What is the biggest challenge you
face in being a young entrepreneur?
A- I think the challenge lies in keeping a distinct sense of
direction in terms of who I want to be and what I want to
do in life. I know I need to maintain a forward-looking
sense all the time.
Q- How do you define success? Would
you consider yourself successful?
A- Success is a strong word because the element of
success isn’t a static concept. I am on the road to being
successful by making the effort to achieve my goals. I
wouldn’t claim that I am statically successful, in the
present value sense of the word anyway. I am moving
forward, and therefore, am becoming successful.
Q- What did you take away from
Gulliver that helped you get where you
are today?
A- During my Gulliver years, I really grew a very strong
sense of focus and dedication to whatever I do. I also had
the opportunity to expand my skill set among a lot of
different subject areas and ways of thinking, which is
important developmentally. All of these experiences
helped bring me to this point at Harvard.
Q- What does it mean to you to be, as
Gulliver tries to make all its students, a
responsible world citizen?
A- Being a responsible world citizen means understanding
society and taking the needs of others into consideration
when trying to find your own success and happiness.
Being a business leader incites positive change in society,
and Thefacebook fulfills that need by positively impacting
students’ lives. ■
a
Thefacebook]
“BEING A RESPONSIBLE WORLD CITIZEN MEANS
UNDERSTANDING SOCIETY AND TAKING THE NEEDS OF
OTHERS INTO CONSIDERATION WHEN TRYING TO FIND
YOUR OWN SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS.”
Thefacebook
is an online
directory
that
connects
people
through
social
networks at
colleges and
universities.
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13
51 Years of Excellence
How Much do You Remember?
Senior Pep Rally (1990)
Homecoming (1985)
Student Council (1980)
Cheerleaders (1980)
Soccer Champs (1990)
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Z Club Officers (1985)
Homecoming King, Queen, and Princess (1995)
Basketball team (1975)
For a gift of $100, the school will
place a personalized brick at the Prep,
Academy, Pinecrest Prep, or South
Miami Campuses. Your tax-deductible
contribution will build a better future for
our students at all grade levels and on all
campuses. Our diverse future building
Seniors (2000)
projects will benefit our students while
allowing our campuses to utilize
resources more effectively. If you haven’t
already received a Bricks for the Future
packet, you may pick one up from the
Main Office on any campus or download
an order form from our website at
Senior Court (2000)
Patriot Staff (1975)
www.gulliverschools.org.
{Administrative Profile}
M r.
E
ducation is a calling for many people, a destiny which beckons and entices those of all ages and
backgrounds. Fortunately, it is a profession that often attracts the best of the best, individuals who truly
understand and appreciate the need to instill knowledge into the minds and hearts of a future generation
of presidents, doctors, artists, researchers, and teachers.
Academy Middle School Assistant Principal
in the middle of the fall semester. In 1998, he
from ‘92-‘95, and Mr. Mac himself has served
and Assistant Varsity Football Coach John
became the Middle School assistant principal,
as an assistant varsity football coach at Gulliver
McCloskly fits the mold of an educator perfectly.
where his current responsibilities include supporting for nearly 11 years.
Mr. Mac (or Coach Mac, depending on
whether you catch him in the office or on the
the management and administration of the school,
scheduling, and helping develop curriculum.
Among the plethora of responsibilities Mr. Mac
assumes, the most important of these is
football field), a Miami native, came to Gulliver in
Mr. Mac’s history with Gulliver, however,
1997, when he replaced a social studies teacher
goes farther back than ‘97. His father Jack
teaching the infamous LifeSkills® that clearly
was the head varsity football coach at the Prep
define qualities such as patience, integrity, and
16
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character education, which he does in part by
perseverance, and stresses the importance of
worried about popularity,” he says. “You just have
implementing them into our daily lives.
to be who you are.”
“Through the LifeSkills®, we promote
Most people would agree that Mr. Mac
personal responsibility for one’s life, one’s
himself is the embodiment of several of the
actions,” he says. “We remind them (our
LifeSkills® he advocates, with his sense of
students) that they control their own destiny,
humor topping the chart.
academically and emotionally.”
Mr. Mac’s personal philosophy in working with
“If you get to know Mac, he’s one of the
funniest guys. He’s hysterical. That’s his inner
middle school students mirrors Gulliver’s approach
secret, an unbelievable sense of humor,” says
to creating responsible world citizens. His
Academy Student Activities Director Les
philosophy, to treat each student with
Cooperman, who has spent a great deal of time
consideration and compassion, certainly has
with Mr. Mac on school field trips.
garnered him admiration from his colleagues, who
often look to him for guidance and support.
“Our teachers are really fantastic people who
help our students with their development as
people,” Mr. Mac says. “It is my goal to talk to our
So just how does one keep his sense of
humor despite the confusion and frustration that
sometimes accompanies a day in the life of an
assistant principal?
Maintain a positive outlook and constantly
important. It teaches you about teamwork, dealing
teachers on a one-to-one basis and understand
remind yourself of the importance of your work,
with adversity and success, and how to have a
their take and the challenges they face everyday
says Mr. Mac.
goal and work hard to reach that goal,” he says.
in the classroom. That way, I can be a resource
for them,” he says.
When asked about whether or not he is a
popular guy on campus, Mr. Mac says, half
In addition to his administrative
Mr. Mac believes the challenges of being a
responsibilities, coaching allows Mr. Mac to
middle school assistant principal and a varsity
interact with the students in a different setting and
football coach are very similar, and that the key to
nurture his love of athletics.
{continued on next page}
jokingly, that he has no clue. “You can’t be
“Involvement (in athletics) is extremely
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17
Interesting Facts
About Mr. Mac In His Own Words
being successful at both is to be consistent and fair.
entertainer, a stand-up comedienne,” he says.
“You need to get their respect,” he says. If
This funny stuff must run in the family.
• He is actually an attorney who no longer
practices law.
“Education and coaching is where my
heart is.”
• He worked at a funeral home for two
summers while in college at the
University of Florida.
“You meet some of the nicest people at
funeral homes!”
• He played football at Coral Gables Senior
High School.
“I’m a proud alumnus”
• He’s not really the disciplinarian at home
with daughters Shannon and Jacqueline.
“My wife Peg, she does that mostly. She
steers the ship.”
18
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you do that, they’ll follow.”
Watching Mr. Mac in action, it is clear that he
For now, Mr. Mac says he will continue to
focus on his family and his work at Gulliver.
is highly respected indeed. In the hallways,
Currently he is working towards a masters in
teachers often stop to say good morning and
educational leadership and says he hopes to
students wave and smile.
always be learning and discovering new things.
Mr. Mac, the AP and coach, also is a family
“Middle school, and even high school, is
man. He has been married to his wife Peg for
about beginning to find one’s self, to identify
seven years, and they have two children,
personal strengths and weaknesses. It’s about
Shannon, 5, and Jacqueline, 3. He already
figuring out who you are and what you’re good
knows what his daughters’ professions will be.
at. In many ways, it’s like what some of us go
“Shannon, she’ll be a teacher, definitely. And
through every day – questioning ourselves and
Jacqueline, well, I see a fullback for the Miami
re-evaluating. I feel like we all can relate to
Dolphins. (laughs) No, I’m kidding. Probably an
that,” he says. ■
a
News Around CAMPUS
Class of 2004 Donates
Concession Stand to Prep
T
he class of 2004, under the sponsorship of Learning Center Clinician
Inelu Ballesteros, has donated a concession stand to the Prep. Members of
Gulliver’s own maintenance team recently completed construction of the
permanent structure, which is adjacent to the athletic fields behind the
Physics Room.
All the monies for the project, which cost an estimated $10,000, were
raised over a three-year period by members of the class of 2004, who
hosted various sales and are credited with planning one of the most
successful senior proms to date.
The new concession stand is the brainchild of the class of 2004’s
officers: President Aaron Black, Vice-President Jetson Swayze, Secretary
Stephanie Mazer, and Treasurer Courtney Engelke. Former Gulliver
Pre-Engineering student Mimi Abe, also c/o 2004, originally designed the
stand. The structure went through several evolutions to ensure that it
matched the construction and façade of the building to which it is attached.
Coaches, parents, and staff are excited about the recent addition to the
Prep’s athletic facilities. “[The concession stand] has really been great for
big soccer and lacrosse events,” says Athletic Director Chuck Tobey. “Since
it is a permanent structure, it’s so much more convenient than the truck we
used in the past. We’re looking forward to being able to utilize it for football
games next year.”
In addition to the concession stand, the class of 2004 also was able to
donate $1,800 to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami. Ballesteros, who
calls the class of 2004 an “incredible group of young men and women,” is
thrilled to see the project reach its fruition and encourages all members of
a
last year’s senior class to come by and see their gift to Gulliver. ■
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19
News Around CAMPUS
Gulliver Bids Farewell to
Two Long-Time Administrators and Friends
UPON THE CLOSE OF THE 2004-2005 SCHOOL YEAR, GULLIVER SCHOOLS
PARTED WITH TWO OF ITS MOST VALUED EMPLOYEES, MERLE KRAVETZ
AND DONNA TOBEY.
Merle Kravetz
After nearly 30 years at Gulliver, Merle
Campus as chairman of the English department.
Soon after the opening of the Preparatory
Campus, she assumed the position in which she
was to remain for almost 25 years. During that
time, Kravetz was instrumental in developing and
Kravetz announced that she would retire as
implementing Gulliver’s innovative college
director of guidance and college counseling. On
placement services. Her position, and thus her
May 24, 2005, a farewell cocktail party was held
vision for the guidance program, will be assumed
in her honor at the home of Jim and Debbie
by Arlene Leslie for the upcoming school year.
Nolan, where she received a number of special
Kravetz leaves behind many friends and loyal
gifts and listened to kind words of appreciation
admirers who wish her much happiness in her
from many doting parents and colleagues.
retirement from Gulliver. She will be greatly
Kravetz originally came to the Academy
missed, but her legacy always will be remembered.
Faculty and friends celebrating Merle Kravetz’s retirement from Gulliver Schools
20
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Donna Tobey
Gulliver also said an unfortunate
but fond farewell to Donna Tobey,
principal of the South Miami Campus
(SMC). Tobey, who came to the SMC when it
opened in 1994, taught junior kindergarten and
first grade at the Academy for eight years prior
to her appointment as principal.
During her 11-year tenure at SMC, she was
instrumental in making the South Miami Campus
an innovative and unique school for children in
senior kindergarten through grade four. She
pioneered a dynamic program that emphasizes
integrated, thematic teaching as well as a
multiple intelligences approach to learning.
Tobey has accepted a position as the
assistant head of school for The Academy of
the Palm Beaches, an institution for students
two years of age through the eighth grade.
Her contributions to Gulliver, as well as her
kind heart and novel ideas, will not be
forgotten in her absence. Gulliver wishes her
a
the best of luck in her future endeavors. ■
Principal Tobey through the years
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21
News Around CAMPUS
Yoga Gains Popularity at Gulliver
Y
oga, an ancient Hindu practice whose aim is to bring the mind and body
Believe it or not, this is relaxing!
together to create a harmonious experience, has gained popularity in the
past decade. Proven benefits of Yoga include increased flexibility and
allows them to get the most out of what they are doing. Also, the health
concentration as well as stress relief. Gulliver Prep’s own Yoga program was
benefits are tremendous,” she says.
established four years ago by English and Yoga Teacher Melinda Atkins,
Given the range of activities in which Gulliver’s Yoga students
RYT500, as a part of the P.E. curriculum. Since then it has become a
participate, it’s clear the program is about more than just spending an hour
favorite elective with the students. Beginning with an enrollment of just
contorting one’s body in ways that don’t seem possible. Atkins also
10 in its first year, the program has grown to over 200 and now includes
sponsors the 60+ member Yoga Club, whose main activity is a community
a campus Yoga Club.
outreach program where students assist with children’s Yoga classes at a
Atkins, a registered
downtown Miami YWCA. The club also oversees Yoga workshops and
member of the National
lectures that reinforce healthy lifestyle habits to the Gulliver community.
Yoga Alliance and
Yoga students enjoying the benefits of a good breakfast
with Ms. Atkins
In addition, the Yoga Program sponsors a quarterly “Breakfast with Ms.
certified Yoga instructor,
Atkins,” in which students, alumni, and even parents meet before school at
became devoted to the
6:45 a.m. to enjoy a heart-healthy meal and discuss the benefits of good
practice after an
nutrition. Yoga Day, a nationally recognized day to promote the physical and
anesthesiologist, during
mental benefits of Yoga, also has become a tradition at the Prep. A yearly
a surgical consult,
trip to Glaser Organic Farms is something Yoga students have come to
advised her to consider
eagerly anticipate. During this pilgrimage, students take a walking tour of a
Yoga as an alternative to
working organic farm and are able to sample nutritious raw organic fare made
surgery for a herniated disk and scoliosis. Practicing yoga six days a week
without sugar, dairy, or other
has enabled her to live virtually pain free for almost eight years now.
animal products.
A strong belief in the benefits of Yoga also has led Atkins to actively
“The students have really
work at expanding Gulliver’s Yoga Program as well as opening her own Yoga
responded positively to the
studio, AUM Home, in Coconut Grove. Atkins says she witnesses daily the
program and have learned to
positive effects of Yoga on students.
make healthy choices and
“The benefits are so clear. Increase in focus and attention is a major one.
To teach students to focus on the task at hand cuts study time in half and
take care of their minds and
bodies. It makes it all worth
Pedro Machado and Mara Wine demonstrating “shoulder stand”
partner-Yoga style
22
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Gulliver Chosen to Host
Lacrosse Championship
Playoffs
Gulliver Loses Two
Beloved Staff Members
T
his spring, Gulliver Schools lost two of its dearest staff members:
Carol Paul, the nurse at the Academy Campus for over 18 years,
G
and Lower School Math Coordinator and Teacher Sharon
chosen as the host of this year’s lacrosse
Schosberg, both of whom passed away from cancer.
championship games on April 26 and 30 at
On January 11, a memorial service was held to honor Nurse
Nurse Carol Paul
ulliver Schools was honored to have been
Tropical Park. As determined by regular season
Paul’s life. Students, parents, faculty, and staff, along with Nurse
play and subsequent district playoffs, the top four
Paul’s family, joined together to reminisce about her profound
boys and girls teams from around South Florida
impact at Gulliver Schools. Several people spoke at the service,
participated in a single-elimination tournament to
including Academy Principal Marian Link, Activities Director Les
determine the South Florida championship teams.
Cooperman, and Drama Teacher Chris Vaida, who all said Nurse Paul would be remembered
Each winning team then advanced to the State
for her friendly presence, radiant smile, and caring attitude. In addition to a performance
High School Championships the weekend of
by the Academy orchestra, several students delivered comical poems that reminded them
May 7 at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex
of Nurse Paul.
in Orlando.
Gulliver Schools has established a memorial fund in
Recently, lacrosse was recognized as an
Nurse Paul’s name. The money collected will be used to
official high school sport by the Florida High
improve the school clinic and send students with financial
School Athletic Association (FHSAA), which has
need on class trips.
caused explosive growth in the amount of lacrosse
Mrs. Sharon Schosberg, parent of alumnae Samantha
teams in the area. In fact, approximately 40
‘94, was best known for her kind and caring manner and the
schools in and around Miami-Dade County now
pride she took in her students’ accomplishments. When the
have lacrosse teams. Gulliver’s sponsorship of
Gulliver community learned of her illness, they joined together
to try to help by donating blood and holding “Jeans Day”
Mrs. Schosberg with daughter Samantha ‘94 and
husband Peter
drives in an effort to raise money for cancer research. Mrs. Schosberg passed away in March
this event provided the school with the opportunity
to generate an increased interest in this
challenging and often overlooked sport. ■
a
over spring break, and several members of the Gulliver family attended her memorial service.
Both Nurse Paul and Mrs. Schosberg are truly missed, and the school extends its deepest
a
sympathy to their families and loved ones. ■
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23
News Around CAMPUS
Gulliver Students
Unite in Tsunami
Relief Efforts
SMC Gets a New
“In A Fix” Library
S
tudents and teachers at the South Miami Campus (SMC) were
F
television show “In a Fix.” Filmed at SMC on January 3, 4, and 5,
subsequent tsunami that tore through
the show aired during primetime on March 30.
the recipients of a brand new library courtesy of the TLC network
ollowing the devastating earthquakes and
Southeast Asia in December, students at
Conceptualized by interior designer Deborah Dimare, the
Artists working on the walls in the
new SMC library
Gulliver Preparatory School helped to raise
new library features a tropical theme complete with a beautiful
$5,703.60 that was contributed to the U.S.
botanical mural. Dimare was a guest speaker at the SMC during “Spatial Intelligence Day” in
Fund for UNICEF (United Nations Children’s
December 2004, and the television show was a result of her visit. Students had the unique
Fund). Such gifts enable UNICEF to deliver
opportunity to watch a design concept come to life before their eyes. They gave suggestions and
shared ideas about what they most wanted to
emergency assistance to the 12 countries
see in their new library.
affected by this natural disaster.
On January 5, students and staff were
Each of Gulliver’s five campuses
treated to the official “unveiling” of the renovated
implemented its own unique tsunami relief
SMC Library, which was taped for the show. The
fundraising programs. In addition to the
excitement and energy of the students as they
viewed their new literary space for the first time
UNICEF donation, the Gulliver Academy
Campus raised $7,800 for the Save the
Children organization, and the Gulliver South
Miami Campus collected a total of $2,600
that was donated to the American Red Cross.
In total, Gulliver Schools collected over
“In A Fix” crew filming the official unveiling
was all the producer, host, and artists needed to
be sure that they indeed provided an invaluable service. Among the renovations to the new SMC
library are unique shelves, which allow for additional book storage, wall paintings, and even a
book-publishing station.
Gulliver thanks TLC and the cast and crew of
“In A Fix” for its new library and for an experience
$16,000 and continues to encourage
that, according to SMC Principal Donna Tobey,
students, parents, and staff to aid in the relief
allowed the students to witness how an idea
a
efforts for this terrible tragedy. ■
translates from concept to reality. “It was an
authentic learning adventure with a great reward,”
24
she says. ■
a
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Principal Tobey and excited SMC students preparing to
enter their new library
Fairchild Challenge Raises Students’
Environmental Awareness
T
his past April, Gulliver Prep students
F
and faculty members participated in The
or the second year in a row, Gulliver
Fairchild Challenge, an annual series of
Academy sixth graders donated a classroom
competitions involving a wide range of
library of 150 books and teacher materials
multidisciplinary challenges designed to
to a fourth grade class at Florida City
increase students’ knowledge of and
Elementary School this past March. Under
interest in the environment. Held at
the direction of English teacher Nikki
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral
DeLuca Maier, each student was asked to
Gables, this dynamic outreach program
bring three new fourth-grade-level books to
is composed of a series of 14
categories, 12 of which were entered by
Gulliver Academy
Students Establish
Library Project Tradition
donate to the children at this underprivileged
Winning watercolor entry by senior Marlowe Rosenbaum
Gulliver students.
Of the nearly 50 Gulliver students that took part in the competition, 20 students won awards for
their entries in the following categories: Art of a Tropical Fruit, Foreign Exchange, Research Essays,
and Research Projects. In addition to the students’ individual awards, Gulliver received an honorable
mention as one of the top 10 schools that participated in the Challenge.
“The amazing thing about it (the competition) is that it’s not just geared towards science, but all
disciplines, which appeals to a broad range of student interests,” says Peter Steedman, dean of
students at Gulliver Prep. The Fairchild Challenge also provides a classroom focus for teachers
coupled with potential award incentives for students.
a
Congratulations to all the students and faculty members on a job well-done! ■
school. During their visit, each Gulliver
student formed a group with four Florida
City fourth graders to read a selection from
one of the donated novels.
According to Maier, sharing the love of
reading and literature with others is an
essential component to becoming a truly
well-rounded English student. She hopes to
continue this library project tradition with her
students in the future. ■
a
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25
News Around CAMPUS
Gulliver Students Achieve
Eagle Scout Rank
T
recently progressed to this highly regarded
Boy Scouts is among the world’s most respected
position, one that only four percent of all Boy
youth memberships. As such, the Boy Scouts of
Scouts ever achieve.
he time-honored tradition of participation in
America prepares young people to make ethical
After completing various requirements in
Brandon and his helpers at the Arboretum at Bill Sadowski Park.
and moral choices over their lifetimes through
the areas of leadership, service, and outdoor
character development and values-based
skills, Prep students Brandon Robbins, Weston
merit badges (41) in Troop 457, freshman
leadership training.
Ehrman, Jose Calderon, and Jonathan Kerr
Brandon Robbins has followed in the footsteps of
recently were granted Eagle rank. To qualify for
his grandfather who became an Eagle Scout in
this advancement, the boys had to earn at least
1935. He completed his community service
The highest advancement is that of Eagle
Scout, a rank that holds special significance not
Weston Ehrman ‘05
Jose Calderon ‘05
Freshman Brandon Robbins
only in Scouting, but also in higher education,
21 merit badges, undergo an extensive review
project by clearing 8,000 square feet of dead
business, and community service. Four Gulliver
process, and organize and carry out a community
and exotic trees from the Arboretum at Bill
Prep students have
service project in their community.
Sadowski Park in Miami. The $3,500 that he
As the youngest Eagle Scout with the most
26
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raised for picnic tables, mulch, and other
Mrs. K Selected
as a 2005
Woman of Impact
Audubon Society at Bill Baggs State Park in
Cape Florida to collect used fishing line. He
arranged for the park recreation and maintenance
crew to gather the contents of the bins and
Jose at Bill Bagg’s State Park during his community service project
materials was used to enhance the nature area.
transport them to a local recycling facility.
Jonathan Kerr ‘05 also made an effort to
“The community really backed him up and came
improve the facilities at a public park. After
out to support the cause,” says Brandon’s father
conducting research on potential project ideas, he
Steve Robbins, one of the leaders of Brandon’s
decided to build dress stalls at the Crandon Park
troop.
Nature Center on Key Biscayne where children
Weston Ehrman ‘05 initiated a similar nature
could change their clothes when they visited
conservation effort in which he built 10
during field trips. “I presented my plan with
bird-nesting boxes to be placed in the Everglades
diagrams to the Nature Center, and once it was
by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation
approved, my dad and some friends helped me to
Commission (FWC). He believes that “being an
build it in about three days,” Jonathan says.
Eagle Scout means you have lifelong commitment
As the final step to becoming an Eagle
to an organization and that you can feel proud
Scout, a ceremony is held to honor the
about being part of such a small group of people
advancing Scouts and present them with their
that receive this award.”
badges. Jose was recognized at a special Eagle
Jose Calderon ‘05 agrees that achieving
Court of Honor on December 5, 2004.
Eagle rank sets him apart from others. “It shows
Jonathan’s Eagle ceremony was held at Crandon
you have the ability to be a leader, and you have
Park on May 14, 2005, and Brandon and
developed certain skills that will help you later in
Weston were awarded their Eagle medals at the
life,” he says. For his service project, Jose
Eagle Court of Honor on May 16, 2005, at
placed recycling bins provided by the Tropical
a
Kendall United Methodist Church. ■
O
ver the years, Mrs. Krutulis has been
honored time and again for her relentless
dedication to Gulliver, her influence as a
female educator, and her efforts to
continuously better the community. Most
recently, she was selected by the Women’s
History Coalition of Miami-Dade County as
a 2005 Woman of Impact. This award is
presented annually to a small group of
women who have made a significant
impact through their professional and
community service activities.
Mrs. K officially received her award
at a reception at the University of Miami
on Wednesday, March 2, 2005. At that
time, she was added to a prestigious
group of more than 100 other Women of
Impact. We extend our sincere
congratulations to Mrs. K for yet another
impressive accomplishment! ■
a
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27
News Around CAMPUS
“K Square”
Dedication
"K Square," a popular meeting place for Prep students
G
ulliver Schools wishes to thank several
individuals for their support in the construction of
“K Square” at the Prep Campus. Since its
dedication in February 2005, the area has
become a popular spot for students to gather
before and after school and during breaks. If you
haven’t been by to see it, be sure to check it out!
“K Square” is a visible reminder of the impact
that philanthropy can have on the daily lives of our
students, and we thank all of our families and
a
friends for their ongoing dedication to Gulliver. ■
Message from the
Alumni Director
Supporters at the "K Square" dedication in February
"K Square" Supporters
Mark & Bonnie Blank
Tony & Cathy Blank
Robert & Rhonda Burstein
William & Tere Canida
Dr. Allan & Esther Feingold
Michael & Carolyn Friedman
Samuel & Jennifer Getz
Steven & Tamra Gordon
Graduation Celebration 2004
Edward & Susan Henkin
Richard & Ilisa Hoffman
Kenneth & Mindy Karl
Murray & Ilene Kossman
Robert & Mimi Levine
Clifford & Diana Mermell
Drs. Bernard & Lynn Nusbaum
Alan & Claudia Potamkin
Raymond & Suzy Robinson
ER SCHOOLS
GULLIV
IVER ALUMNI
GULL
W
-AWAY EEKEND
T
E
G
Hello everyone!
Weather is great,
the beach is fabulous,
hope to see you here.
‘85
28
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summer 2005
David & Becky Rosenbaum
Gary & Lisa Saul
Louis & Ellen Wolfson
Howard & Pam Wolofsky
Dr. Joseph & Robin Zagorski
Gulliver Schools
Alumni House
6575 North Kendall Drive
Pinecrest, Florida 33156
FIRST CLASS
US Postage
PAID
Miami, FL
Permit No. 2013
Gulliver Alumni
Everywhere
Other
Alumni News
UPDATE ON ALEX ACOSTA ‘86
On Friday, June 10, 2005, Alex Acosta, who served as the assistant
attorney general for the Civil Rights Division of the United States
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Stephanie Gilewicz,
Class of 2002
Department of Justice, became the interim U.S. attorney for the Southern
District of Florida. Acosta was chosen as the temporary replacement until
President Bush nominates a permanent U.S. attorney within the next six
months to a year. He is expected to be a candidate for the permanent
position because of his impressive resume at only 36 years of age.
ALUMNUS HOSTS INSIDE MIAMI
Alex Fernandez ‘04 was recently the debut host of the new WDNA
Public Radio talk show Inside MIAMI, the premier local English radio talk
show covering issues affecting the communities of South Florida. Inside
MIAMI with Alex Fernandez is broadcast exclusively on WDNA Public Radio
88.9 FM each Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and streamed
simultaneously on the Internet at www.wdna.org.
Fernandez is a freshman communications student at Florida
International University. He also is the host of Unidos Sin Fronteras (United
without Borders) on WACC Radio Paz 830 AM, the Spanish-language radio
station of the Archdiocese of Miami.
In addition to his media work, Fernandez is the youngest board member
ever appointed to the District 11 Affordable Housing Board, nominated at
age 18 by Commissioner Joe Martinez, chairman of the Miami-Dade County
Board of Commissioners. In this capacity, Fernandez makes
recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners on affordable
housing incentives as required by funding regulations and guidelines
established by state statutes.
Fernandez’s community work began at the age of 14, when he founded
Holiday Charity for Camillus House, an organization composed of business,
religious, and public-elected leaders to bring the spirit of the holidays to the
residents of Camillus House. During the past four years, the organization
has raised approximately $40,000 in pledges and organized a 12-hour
radio marathon that raised over $610,000 in pledge donations.
Years at Gulliver: Stephanie is a Gulliver lifer!
Gulliver Activities: Key Club, Varsity Soccer, Track & Field
Favorite Gulliver Class: Senior English with Mr. Shapiro - “I never considered
myself a good writer, but Mr. Shapiro is very encouraging. I became a
better writer because of him,” she says.
College: Currently entering her senior year at Southern Methodist University
in Dallas, Texas, where she is majoring in Corporate and Community
Affairs and minoring in Spanish and Psychology
Last Time She Visited Gulliver: In June, for her brother Alexander’s graduation
First Job: Counselor in Training for the St. Richard’s Summer Camp
Career: Aspires to work for a non-profit organization, or maybe go to culinary
arts school to become a chef; she also likes communications, and this
summer she has an internship working for the PR director of a medical
research facility - “There is just so much I’d like to do,” she says.
Family: Little brother Alexander ‘05, will attend UNC-Chapel Hill in the fall;
older sister Samantha ’00, is a Fordham University alumnae
For Relaxation, She: Goes to the gym and loves to cook; she says she doesn’t
have much time for relaxation, so when she has a few minutes she just
likes to “veg out in front of the television or read. I’ve become a big
reader lately.”
Role Model: Her parents - “My mom is one of the strongest people I know.
She raised three kids and did a great job,” she says. “Plus, she has
supported herself since she was a young woman. And my dad (who
passed away eight months ago) was a wonderful father and
businessman and always had his family’s best interest at heart. I
respect and admire their character so much.”
How She Wishes to be Remembered: “As someone who never judged a book by
its cover and gave everyone a fair chance; as someone who was open
and giving. Also, as someone who had enough faith in herself to try
and accomplish all her dreams.”
Favorite Gulliver Memory: “My entire soccer experience; being on the varsity
team when you’re a freshman teaches you a lot. I also remember our
road trips, when teamwork and friendship really became evident. It
was so great and made me a better person.”
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29
A
s “the first formidable challenge to
[Microsoft’s] Internet Explorer that the
world has seen in years,” according to
Business 2.0 magazine, Firefox has taken the
software world by storm, boasting more than
10 million downloads within the first month of
its release. Since then, Firefox has made a
major dent in Internet Explorer’s dominating
market share and has the consumer backing to
continue gaining ground.
What makes Firefox so unique is its intuitive
interface, quick page-loading, and ease of use,
as described by WIRED magazine, on which
Ross was featured on the February 2005 cover.
Blake Ross - Not Your Typical Computer Whiz
WHILE STANFORD SOPHOMORE BLAKE ROSS ‘03 SITS AT HIS COMPUTER UNTIL
THE WEE HOURS OF THE MORNING, HE ISN’T COMPLETING LAST-MINUTE
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS LIKE MOST COLLEGE STUDENTS. INSTEAD, HE’S
CODING COMPUTER PROGRAMS, A HOBBY HE PICKED UP AS A KID THAT LED
TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF FIREFOX, THE NEW OPEN-SOURCE WEB BROWSER
THAT OFFICIALLY DEBUTED THIS PAST NOVEMBER.
“Firefox was developed for mom and dad,” says
Ross. “Our motivations were to make it so
everyone could enjoy the web.”
Perhaps most importantly, Firefox is more
secure than Internet Explorer in that it is less
prone to viruses, pop-ups, and spyware that can
invade PCs through the web. The new browser
also offers tabbed browsing, a feature which
groups web pages into a single window to reduce
desktop clutter and enable comparison shopping.
Such advancements from a 20-year-old may
seem hard to believe, but considering Ross
began programming at the age of 10, it’s not
surprising that Firefox has come so far.
30
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“My parents got me interested
{Alumni Profile}
in computers early on, but I wasn’t
content just using things - I had to
know how they worked,” Ross
recalls. “When AOL got big, I
started my own website and
began hard coding –
honestly, it just kinda
happened.”
By 14, Ross was
interning for Netscape,
and even after the
browser battle was lost
to Internet Explorer, he
and other volunteer
programmers around the
world continued tinkering
with the code as part of the
non-profit Mozilla project.
Eventually, in 2003, Mozilla
broke free from Netscape and
became a separate entity under
which Firefox was developed.
“My driving force is the computer
users out there, the people. I wanted to
work on something that I would be proud of and
that they would love. It always has been about
them. That is still the intent behind what we do
today,” says Ross.
Contrary to popular belief, Firefox hasn’t
{continued on next page}
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31
{Alumni Profile}
made Ross a
It has nothing to do with money or fame – just
millionaire.
happiness,” he says.
Even so, he still
Although he runs with the big dogs now,
with all this “computer stuff.”
For now, though, he’s content maintaining
a somewhat abnormal college schedule, eating
considers
Ross still has managed to keep things in
one meal a day, and staying up coding until
himself
perspective. Currently, he’s working on a
6:00 in the morning. As he moves forward
successful for
traditional start-up company, which should be
with his life, Ross recalls fond memories of
offering
made public by the end of this year. He also
Gulliver and his high school experiences. “The
people a
plans to graduate from college, even though
teachers that I met there really helped shape
better way to
he’s taken some time off from school to focus
my work ethic and the way I live,” he says.
on Firefox and his other projects. Ultimately,
“Looking back on high school now, I feel like it
Ross plans to write novels when he’s finished
was such a simple time.” ■
a
browse the Internet. “Success means you
wake up every day and do what you love to do.
To download Firefox version 1.0, go to www.getfirefox.com.
To help spread the word about Firefox,
register at www.spreadfirefox.com.
Photo by Michael Elins and Kenn Brown courtesy
of Wired ©2005 Condé Nast Publications, Inc.
For more information about Blake Ross,
visit www.blakeross.com.
COMPUTER JARGON FOR DUMMIES*
Firefox – a free, open-source, graphical web browser
developed by the Mozilla Foundation and hundreds of
volunteers, including Blake Ross
Web browser – the program that serves as the front end to
the Internet
Program – a series of instructions that performs a particular
task
Software – instructions for the computer
Open-source software – software with freely available
source code
Source code – programming statements and instructions
that are written by a programmer
32
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summer 2005
Programming – creating a computer program
Mozilla project– the open source project originally founded
to create the next-generation internal suite for Netscape that
now maintains the Mozilla Firefox browser, among other
products
Netscape – the series of near-obsolete web browsers
originated by Netscape Communications Corporation
Internet Explorer – a proprietary web browser made by
Microsoft Corporation
Proprietary software – software in which the user does not
control what it does or cannot study or edit the code
Coding – writing program logic in a specific programming
language
Program logic – the instructions in a program arranged in a
prescribed order to solve a problem
Hard coding – writing a fixed solution rather than a
generalized one to a programming problem
Interface – the connection and interaction between
hardware, software, and the user
Spyware – unwanted software that installs automatically
when you visit a particular website and records information
about your web surfing habits
Tabbed browsing – a web browser feature that hides the
current web page behind a tab and presents a new blank
window for continued browsing
*Information gathered from techweb.com and wikipedia.org
2005 Gulliver Alumni Events Gallery
New York Alumni Reunion, April 22, 2005
Rory Manaro, David Sochet ’79, Ms. Fitzgerald,
and Joe Morgan ’80
Coral Rodriguez ’94, Jason Gutman ’99, Mrs. K,
and Carolina Buia ’94
Alan Ripps ’83, Omar Jabado ’96, Jessica Atrio ’97, Megan Perrin, Mrs. and Mr. Eric Sidor ’94
Tanya Hayes ’91, Ms. Fitzgerald, Justin Hayes ’99,
and Alfred Fredel ’85
John Phelan ’82, Laura Keepax ’85,
and Amy Phelan
Jay Horowitz ’82 and Laura Keepax ’85
Mrs. K, Lisa Sochet ’85, and Pat Snay
Alumni Bahamas Cruise, April 29, 2005
Royal Caribbean’s ship Majesty of the Seas®
John Krutulis ’75, Laura Keepax ’85, Michelle
Krietsch ’87, and Badin Van Hees
Gulliver alumni at the Hotel Atlantis in Nassau
Ms. Fitzgerald relaxing
on the beach
Gulliver alumni dining on the cruise ship
Gulliver alumni setting sail for the Bahamas
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33
Gulliver Reinstitutes
Career Workshop
OVER THE LAST SEVERAL MONTHS, THE GULLIVER ALUMNI
ASSOCIATION HOSTED A SERIES OF CAREER WORKSHOPS TO
educate current students about different career options. With the help
of Gulliver alumnus Jeff Kaplan ’86, “Career Day” was reinstituted in a
new, seminar-style format where Gulliver alumni came to speak about
their careers to small groups of students during two class periods.
Kaplan, “Life Coach” at Shin Wellness, a business that helps
corporations increase employee productivity by conducting workshops,
seminars, and one-on-one counseling sessions, launched the first
workshop on Business and Entrepreneurship. Next, Sarah Nesbitt
Jeff Kaplan ‘86
Michelle Weinberg ‘85
34
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Artecona ’83, assistant vice president of media relations and community
Sarah Nesbitt Artecona ‘83
Attention Gulliver
Series
Alumni
affairs for the University of Miami, spoke to
The Gulliver Alumni Office wishes to thank the
students about careers in communications and
alumni that have so generously volunteered
public relations. Michelle Weinberg ‘85,
their time to speak to students. We hope to
national sales manager for Perry Ellis, Inc,
sponsor more career workshops in the
hosted the third workshop on “The Corporate
upcoming school year, and we encourage all
Side of the Fashion World.”
alumni to come share their experiences and
Thus far, the workshops have been
insight. If you would be interested in
hugely successful at reducing students’
presenting a workshop, please contact Laura
anxieties about what to study in college and
Keepax ‘85 at 305-666-7937, ext. 479, or
helping them gather more information about
via e-mail at keel@gulliverschools.org. ■
a
the fields they may be interested in pursuing.
Website Updates
We want to help you promote your
business! To this end, we have enhanced
our website to include the Gulliver Career
Networking Resource. You can register
your business online and/or search for
services offered by fellow alumni.
To connect with other alumni and help
increase your business, log on to our
website at www.gulliverschools.org and
follow the alumni link to the Career
Networking Page.
In addition to checking out this exciting
service, make sure to bookmark our
Alumni Bulletin Board, which is updated
monthly with all the latest Gulliver alumni
news and events.
Internship Opportunities
Many of our college-age alumni are
interested in working for you. If you or
your company offer internship or externship
programs, please contact Laura Keepax
at keel@gulliverschools.org or at
Students and guests during a workshop
305-666-7937, ext. 479.
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35
Alumni Roll Call
1970s
Mrs. Sandra Busto Aguado ‘79
Sandra has three childern, the oldest of which will be graduating
from high school in 2005 with high honors. Her middle child is a
freshman, and her youngest is in the sixth grade.
Mr. James Evans ‘79
James recently was elected chairman of the American International Auto
Dealers Association, a lobby group of over 10,000 dealers nationwide.
1980s
Mr. Christopher Chase ‘80
Christopher buys and sells real estate and recently restored a 1963
Rolls Royce Silver Cloud III. He is married to Donna Holman.
Mr. and Ms. Peter Ferris ‘80
Peter and Petra are expecting their first baby, Jake Thomas Ferris,
on September 1, 2005. Peter also has been promoted to executive
vice president of sales for Jillson & Roberts.
Mr. and Mrs. Vincent and Jodie Casanova ‘81
Jodie and her husband have five children, who all are involved in
athletics.
Mr. and Ms. Christian Cobb ‘81
Chris and Kollen have four children, ages 9, 7, 5, and 2.
Mr. Juvenal Pina ‘81
Juvenal is the vice-chairman of the City of Miami Zoning Board.
Mrs. Laura Pina Pequignot ‘82
Laura recently was promoted to vice president of marketing and
communications to oversee corporate partnership initiatives.
Ms. Maria Vendi Streeter ‘82
Maria and her husband Mark have a daughter, Skylar Marie, born
August 29, 2004.
Ms. Kelly Willner ‘83
Kelly’s work was on display at the Etra Gallery in the Miami Design
District throughout the month of March.
Mrs. Sarah Nesbitt Artecona ‘83
Sarah serves on the boards of the Komen Foundation, Goodwill of
Miami, and the United Way.
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Fechter ‘83
Richard and Stephanie Langer celebrated their wedding on April 3,
2005.
Mrs. Denise Burgess Miller ‘83
Denise and her husband will be adopting two children from Russia,
which will give them a total of six children.
Fabricio Altamirano ‘83
Fabricio is the CEO of “El Diario de Hoy,” president of Monica
Herrera University, director of InterAmerican Press Association, and
the father of three children: Santiago, Rodrigo, and Paulina.
36
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Mr. Paul Creighton ‘84
Paul has three children: William Paul born January 16, 2003;
Spencer Grace born Febraury 10, 2004; and Lucy Willa May born
March 8, 2005.
Mr. Chris Dupre ‘84
Chris recently moved to San Diego, California, and has a
14-month-old daughter.
Mr. Joseph Shostak ‘84
Joe recently resigned from Hyatt Hotels after 18 years to start a
home building business with his wife Judy.
Mr. Robert Skaggs ‘84
Robert was a Hawaii Ironman Finisher and All-American Triathlete.
Mr. and Mrs. Marco Rojas ‘84
Marco and his wife Ana Maria welcomed their first child in
April 2005.
Ms. Lainie Hansen Kaslick ‘84
Lainie’s daughter Nina Rose just celebrated her second birthday.
Ms. Karen Davis ‘85
Karen works for the Reed Group, a disability management company.
Mr. Richard Dorfman ‘85
Ricky was married to Jeanette Arango on March 13, 2005.
Jeanette teaches JrK at the Academy and Ricky owns a
washer/dryer business.
Ms. Jennifer Gidersleeve Paulk ‘85
Jennifer is the director of the Phoenix outsources processing
services divison for Harland Financial Solutions. She has been
married for five years and has two cats and a dog.
Mrs. Anita Strawn Worth ‘85
Anita has been married for 11 years and has two children, Ashley, 6,
and Eric, 4.
Mr. Alfred Fredel ‘85
Alfred is a member of the National Hispanic MBA Association New
York Chapter, where he is on the Educational and Professional
Develpoment Committee.
Mr. David Warshofsky ‘85
David volunteers with the Department of Elder Affairs Long-Term
Care Ombudsman Program.
Ms. Michelle Weinberg ‘85
Michelle is the national sales manager for Perry Ellis International in
Miami.
Mrs. Elyse Krieger Hurtado ‘86
Elyse and Cesar are the proud parents of two boys, Matthew and
Mitchell.
Mr. and Mrs. David Leiphart ‘86
David is married with a son named William and is working for
Deutsche Bank in New York City.
Doug Brown ‘89 at his wedding
Linda Golkar ‘84 and family
Chris Haddad ‘86 in Monaco
Mrs. Tamara Sisler Strang ‘86
Tamara has two children, Emmie Ellisa, born March 18, 2003, and
Ian Sisler, born February 20, 2005.
Mr. and Mrs. Paul and Lynn Mallas ‘86
Paul and Lynn had their first baby in April 2005.
Mr. Douglas Bartel ‘87
Doug and his wife are the proud parents of four-year-old Brett and
two-year-old twins Jordan and Brooke.
Mr. and Mrs. Brian Glatzer ‘87
Brian and his wife Alicia have two daughters, Bianca, 5, and Olivia,
2. Brian is a personal injury trial attorney in Miami.
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Leiphart ‘87
Chris was married to Angela Duignon in March 2005.
Mr. and Mrs. Stephan Keller ‘87
Stephan has moved back from California with his wife Heather and
his two-year-old daughter Mia.
Dave Leiphart ‘86 with his family
Coral Rodriguez ’94
Lauren, daughter of Cathy and Jeff Bartel ‘84
Alfred Fredel ’85
Matt Steckley ‘85 with wife Suzanna and son Noah
Scott Davidson ‘87 with his family
Badin Van Hees and Michelle Krietsch ’87
Jason Gutman ‘92 and Carolina Buia ‘94
Sophia, daughter of Giovanna Silva Schmidt ‘85
Jeff Baxter ‘84 with his family
Mrs. and Mr. Eric Sidor ’96
Joe Morgan ‘80
Ms. Rebecca Madden Kollaras ‘87
Becca owns Kollaras Communications, which provides
comprehensive, solution-based public relations, marketing, and
promotional counsel to lifestyle and hospitality clientele.
Mr. Jason Smith ‘87
Jason will be appearing on an episode of “House Hunters,” a
television show on Home & Garden TV.
Mr. Jonathan Colan ‘88
Jonathan and wife Lori welcomed the birth of their first child,
Maxwell Abraham, on November 1, 2004.
Mr. and Mrs. Howard and Sydney Katz ‘88
Sydney and Howard celebrated the birth of their first child, Jonah
Katz, on August 23, 2004.
Mr. and Mrs. Luis and Marie Leon ‘88
Marie and Luis welcomed the birth of their son Rocco, brother to
twins Marcos and Lucas.
Mr. Jason Dimond ‘88
Jason recently moved to Coral Gables with his girlfriend and dog.
Jason Warshofsky ‘88
Jason has his own law practice in Coconut Grove and is engaged to
be married in June 2005.
Mr. Scott Wilson ‘89
Scott and Lyn recently had a baby girl named Kelly Anne Wilson.
Mr. Doug Brown ’89
Doug married Julie Rowland, daughter of Gulliver’s Lower School
Administrative Secretary Marsha Rowland, on April 23, 2005.
Mrs. Lisa Reisman Lips ‘89
Lisa has been married for 10 years and has two children, Jordan and
Andrew.
Andres Restrepo ‘89
Andres and Rosemary recently celebrated their 10-year wedding
anniversary. They have a four year-old-son Carlos Andres.
Mr. and Mrs. Craig Schmidt ‘89
Craig has a one year-old-son named Cole Andrew.
Mrs. Kimberly Buttafuoco Wasserman ‘89
Kim is the director for revenue planning at ABC-Disney Television
Network in New York City.
1990s
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Murad ‘90
Mark and Susannah have been married for two years.
Mrs. Zahra Rahman ‘90
Zahra has two boys, three-year-old Karim and five-month-old Yannik.
Ms. Melissa Mazzotta ‘90
Melissa is the owner of Downtown Learning Center and Metropolitan
Brokers, Inc.
Mrs. Lani Kahn Drody ‘90
Lani has a new addition to her family, Samuel Lawrence, born
March 28, 2005. She also has a son, Will, 2 1/2.
Dr. David Rakofsky ‘90
David is a clinical psychologist practicing in Chicago. He and his
wife Jessica have a son, Eli Jacob, born July 2004.
{continued on next page}
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37
Mrs. Gina Derks Gardner ‘90
Gina is the proud mother of Jared, born May 29, 2003, and
Christian, born November 17, 2004.
Mrs. Andrea Lipman Mayhew ‘90
Andrea and Jason are the proud parents of a three-year-old boy.
Andrea also is a member of the Delta Epsilon Iota Honor Society
and Who’s Who Chancellors List.
Ms. Debbie Sootin Foley ‘90
Debbie is a stay-at-home mom to Ryan, 4 and Julia, 2.
Ms. Alia Azzam ‘91
Alia has a 17-month-old son named Henry.
Ms. Mary Rocha ‘91
Mary is finishing her pediatric residency at Baylor University and
will begin as a faculty member in July 2005.
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Green ‘92
Chris and Jennifer have a baby girl, Caroline, born September 6,
2004.
Ms. Christine Wassall Brennan ‘92
Christine and her husband are the proud parents of two toddlers.
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Larco ‘92
Patrick has been promoted to corporate sales manager for
Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
Mr. Philippe Diener ‘92
Philippe works for Avent Realty Group, LLC.
Mr. John Livingston ‘92
John has a daughter Ella born August 2004. He also is building a
solar-powered strawhole house.
Mr. Charles Jaquet ‘92
Charles owns and operates night clubs and bars in northern Florida.
Mr. and Mrs. Jason Hersh ‘92
Jason and Lisa welcomed the birth of their daughter Riley Madison
on September 19, 2004.
Ms. Patricia Pradere ‘93
Patty and her husband Joseph have a five-month-old baby girl
named Valentina.
Ms. Sandra Medel ‘93
Sandy works in medical genetics at the Mailman Center in Miami.
Ms. Karen Macaluso ‘93
Karen has a baby girl, Isabella, who is two months old.
Mr. Patrick Ilabaca ‘93
Patrick was promoted to director of marketing and communications
for Fox Sports en Español in January 2005.
Ms. Dawn Medina ‘94
Dawn starred in a new stage comedy called Love or Best Offer,
which ran throughout April 2005.
Ms. Beatriz Llorente ‘94
Betty recently opened her own law firm.
Ms. Catherine Sullivan Noyes ‘94
Courtney has a son, Ryan, 1 and is a part-time substitute teacher at
Vanguard School.
Mrs. Elizabeth Hector Coyle ‘94
Elizabeth’s son just celebrated his first birthday, and she is looking
forward to the birth of her daughter in August 2005.
38
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Mr. Tyler Master ‘94
Tyler recently was promoted to area manager at Enterprise
Rent-A-Car. He married Carmen on March 20, 2004.
Mr. Roger Oprandi ‘94
Roger and his wife are expecting their second child, Garvin James,
brother to 20-month-old Sophia Alexandra.
Ms. Annemarie Valdes ‘94
Annie just moved to the Bay Area to work for IDEO, a
world-renowned design consultancy firm.
Mr. William Vesely ‘94
William and his wife are expecting thier first child in October 2005.
Ms. Andrea Rubin ‘94
Andrea is finishing her PhD in Health Policy and Gerontology at the
University of Maryland.
Mr. Erick Ciocca ‘95
Erick is engaged to be married on November 4, 2005.
Mr. Alexander Flipse ‘95
Alex produced and acted in his own film Batman Beyond: Ultimate
Vengance, which will premier in Ft. Lauderdale.
Mrs. JaNelle Smith Kyle ‘95
JaNelle was married on April 22, 2005, and is living in Virginia. She has
been able to reopen her restaurant after a six-month flood recovery.
Mrs. Rebecca Rothman Einzig ‘95
Rebecca and her husband welcomed the birth of their son on
February 10, 2005.
Ms. Carolina Pedroletti ‘96
Carolina is graduating from Optometry School at Nova Southeastern
University in May 2005.
Mr. Justin Ziegler ‘96
Justin has his own law practice that handles family law, divorce,
commercial litigation, and personal injury cases.
Ms. Jessica Atrio ‘97
Jessica participated in the New Jersey marathon in April 2005 and
is raising funds for the Leukemia and Lymphona Society.
Ms. Deepa Sharma ‘97
Deepa graduated from Medical School at Nova Southeastern
University in May 2005, and will begin her residency in internal
medicine in Massachussetts.
Mr. and Mrs. Lonny Schnur ‘97
Lonny married Miami-native Melissa Medinain, whom he met at the
University of Florida, in November 2004.
Mr. Michael Winkleman ‘97
Mike is attending St. Thomas Law School and has published a book
entitled T.R.I.U.M.P.H.
Lori Morgenstern ‘97
Lori is the regional sales manager for Ocean Reef Resort in Key Largo.
Ms. Monica Pardo ‘97
Monica won All-Dade County Rookie Teacher of the Year.
Mr. Federico Pedroletti ‘97
Fred is attending dental school at the University of Florida.
Mr. John Zabalo ‘98
John recently was promoted to regional vice president at Invacare
Corporation, and is the youngest person to ever reach this position at
the company.
Mr. Tyler Schwartz ‘99
Tyler has been accepted to the University of Virginia’s graduate
program in Urban and Environmental Planning.
Mr. Andre Cardim ‘99
Andre just returned from a month-long trip to Brazil for training.
Mr. Javier Cuenca ‘99
Javier will be taking his CPA exam in August 2005.
Mrs. Megan Simmons Sapp ‘99
Megan has been married for two years and is expecting a baby in
August 2005.
2000s
Mr. Matthew Sitkowski ‘00
Matthew is a meteorologist working at the National Weather Service
in Honolulu, Hawaii. He also is attending graduate school at the
University of Hawaii, where he is researching hurricanes.
Mr. Brian Dosal ‘00
Brian won the 2003 NCAA National Championship in fencing and
was captain of his team.
Mr. Allan Medina ‘00
Allan is finishing his first year of law school at American University’s
Washington College of Law in Washington D.C.
Ms. Maria Garrido ‘00
Maria will be finishing her master’s degree in August 2005, and will
be returning to Florida to work as a teacher.
Mr. Henry Hane ‘00
Henry is working as a chef at Le Manoir aux quat Saisons, a
three-star Michelin Guide Restaurant in Oxford.
Ms. Jessica Schenck ‘00
Jessica graduated from the University of Miami in 2004 and now is
working as a new product development engineer at Cordis.
Mr. Javier Herrera ‘00
Javier is an AA Minor Catcher with the Cleveland Indians baseball
team.
Ms. Christine Norton ‘00
Christine is a corporate interior designer and Heartwalk chairwoman
for the American Heart Association in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Mr. Casey R. Dunn ‘01
Casey graduated from the University of Notre Dame on May 15, 2005,
with a Bachelor of Science in Pre-professional Studies. He will begin
his studies at Tulane University School of Medicine in September.
Ms. Kati McCain ‘01
Kati will be graduating from Wagner College in May 2005. She
works for Elizabeth Arden product design in Manhattan, New York.
Mr. Thomas Myers ‘01
Thomas was named to American University’s Academic Honor Roll
and received the Brine Patriot League Goalkeeper of the Year Award
for having the fifth-best single season in AU history. He also was
named to the First Team All-Patriot League squad.
Mr. Edmundo Kronfle ‘01
Edmundo is graduating from Tulane University and moving to
Ecuador.
Mrs. Brittany Krutulis Suarez ‘01
Brittany married her high school sweetheart Toti Suarez ‘99 in June
2005. She recently graduated from Southern Methodist University.
Ms. Tina Rivers ‘01
Tina will be starting the PhD program in Visual Arts at the University
of California at Irvine in fall 2005.
Mr. Jason Ross ‘01
Jason will be attending law school at Washington University
in fall 2005.
Mr. Calvin Koch ‘02
Calvin is the managing editor of his school newspaper, The Pioneer.
Ms. Christina Derhagopian ‘02
Christina started an intership at the Miami Herald in May 2005.
Mr. Brian Halpern ‘02
Brian is working as a radio announcer at a rock station while
finishing his degree in Broadcast Journalism at the University of
Florida.
Mr. Erik Ruiz ‘02
Erik returned in September from a seven-month deployment in Iraq
and is now assigned to Camp Pendleton in California.
Ms. Marion Schur ‘03
Marion is studying photography at Miami Dade College. She had her
first art exhibition in January. She will be traveling around Israel
and joining a kibbutz.
Mr. John Voith ‘03
John is a sophmore at Harvard University where he is a member of
the Harvard men’s swim team, Harvard men’s water polo team, and
was selected to the University Council Executive Committee.
Mr. Jonathan Anderson ‘03
Jonathan is playing baseball at Duke University.
Ms. Sylvia Cardim ‘03
Sylvia will be spending her first semester of her junior year in Milan,
Italy, at the Buconi Business School.
Mr. Mitchell Halpern ‘03
Mitchell will be doing a summer intership with Fidelity in New York.
He is majoring in Economics at Emory University.
Ms. Ashley Buchsbaum ‘03
Ashley just completed and internship at Gainesville’s top radio
station.
Mr. Reny Diaz ‘04
Reny will be on tour with Shades of Yale, Yale University’s first
acappella group, celebrating the music of African-American and
Caribbean tradition.
Mr. Matthew Escovar ‘04
Matthew is on Cornell’s Dean’s List and is part of the Outdoor
Education Leadership Group.
Mr. Brett Pencar ‘04
Brett was an NJCAA Qualifier who placed ninth (21.8) in the 50
Freestyle, seventh (48.0) in the 100 Freestyle, and ninth (1:50.1) in
the 200 Freestyle.
Ms. Rebecca Bennett ‘04
Rebecca has been accepted to the University of Miami beginning in
fall 2005.
Upcoming
Alumni Events
Ocean Reef
Get-Away Weekend
July 22-24, 2005
Our annual get-away weekend at Ocean Reef will begin on the evening of July 22, 2005.
Come down for the day or the whole weekend for lots of fun and games. Meet old friends
or make new ones. Last year we had over 200 alumni at this great event!
Speed Networking
August 2005
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Come and join us for an evening of socializing and networking with your friends and classmates.
Bring your business cards and any other materials to share. Exact date will be announced soon.
Homecoming 2005
October 28, 2005
Kick-off at 3:45 p.m.
Gulliver Raiders vs. Doral Academy
Social event to follow at the Alumni House from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Come and join us as we anticipate another Raider victory!
For more information, contact Laura Keepax at keel@gulliverschools.org
or 305-666-7937 ext. 479.
Don’t Forget!!
Design
John Keepax
The Gulliver Alumni Association is developing a business network online.
Check our website for more information.
Also, if you are interested in offering internships to our current students or
alumni in college, please contact us with details at keel@gulliverschools.org.
Printing
Jes Graphic Resources
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39
a selection of
student art
Self-portrait by eigth grader
Tate Colson
Gulliver Schools
Office of Communications and Public Relations
6575 N. Kendall Drive
Pinecrest, Florida 33156
Artwork by senior Marty Zdon
created for her AP Studio
concentration
PRSTD STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
MIAMI FL
PERMIT NO.