South Kent School recently welcomed back Marge Smith— a school historian, former Director, and current Curator of the Kent Historical Society—for a captivating Pathways Series talk that bridged generations and continents.

A lifelong member of the South Kent community, Marge reflected on her upbringing on the Hillside as one of the large group of “Faculty Brats”—a term affectionately used to describe children of faculty members who grew up immersed in campus life. Her personal stories painted a vivid picture of South Kent’s past, grounded in the values that continue to shape its future.

Marge’s connection to the School runs deep, shaped by the legacy of her parents, Maggie and Art Smith. Her mother, Maggie Smith, was a beloved art teacher whose creative spirit still echoes through the halls of the Maggie Smith Visual Arts Center, named in her honor. Through her teachings in oil painting, watercolors, etching, sculpture, and art history, Maggie empowered generations of students to explore and express themselves. Her frequent trips to New York City exposed students to world-class museums and the transformative power of art.

Marge’s father, Art Smith, served as a dedicated faculty member and crew coach, and a new boy mentor during the 1950s and ’60s. Together, the Smiths left an indelible mark on South Kent, retiring in 1979 after decades of service. Their commitment to education, culture, and character helped define the South Kent experience.

During her talk, Marge spoke about the evolution of boarding schools, with a focus on how South Kent has grown while holding fast to its core values. She shared the story of Suke Hasegawa, the School’s first Asian student, and the early exchange program fostered by her father—a reflection of his deep appreciation for Asian cultures. The Smith family warmly welcomed international students, facilitating a powerful cross-cultural exchange that highlighted shared humanity in the years following World War II.

One of the most moving traditions that grew from this connection was the planting of cherry trees to commemorate each Japanese student’s graduation. These trees remain a living symbol of South Kent’s commitment to global friendship and understanding.

Though South Kent has evolved, Marge reminded listeners that its essence remains unchanged. The School still cultivates curiosity, resilience, and global citizenship—values instilled in her own childhood and carried forward by today’s students.

Her talk was not just a trip down memory lane—it was a testament to the enduring spirit of South Kent, and a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring the past while embracing the future.

Join Marge at Alumni Weekend for book signings, and talks.  For information about preordering visit, South Kent School’s 100 Year History Book.

The post Ep. 9 | Pathway Series: SKS 100 Year History & Cultural Ties appeared first on South Kent School.

What to Expect
Moderated by South Kent School’s Director of Communications, Sarah Chase, this discussion will explore the critical balance between preserving natural habitats and proactively managing fire hazards. With environmental challenges intensifying, the need for collaboration and innovative solutions has never been more urgent. The event will be especially valuable for students in Earth Science, Biology, and Physics, who will gain real-world insights related to their coursework.

Meet the Panelists

We are honored to welcome a distinguished group of experts:
Rebecca Neary – Board of Director for the Connecticut Land Conservation Council and member of the Board of Directors of the Housatonic Valley Association who will discuss conservation efforts and watershed protection for the Warren Land Trust.
Eric Epstein – Longtime Kent resident and Deputy Emergency Management Director, who will share insights on emergency preparedness and environmental safety.
Rich Chavka – SKS faculty member and manager of North Campus programs, who will discuss environmental engineering and sustainability initiatives at South Kent School.
Michael Kronick – Fire Control Officer for the Western District, who will provide expertise on fire safety and risk mitigation strategies.

This panel is a unique opportunity to hear from professionals actively working in land preservation, water resource management, and fire safety. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on how to steward natural resources responsibly and contribute to a more sustainable future. We encourage South Kent School students, faculty, and staff to join us for what promises to be an insightful and thought-provoking discussion.

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📅 Wednesday, April 9 – South Kent vs. Gunn at 4:00 PM
📅 Saturday, May 3 – South Kent vs. Wooster at 4:00 PM

As a proud and collaborative member of the Kent Community, South Kent School is committed to offering Community Days throughout the year, centered around sporting events like Soccer and Basketball (Soccer Community Day). Beyond athletics, South Kent has long hosted Thriller at Halloween for nearly 20 years (watch here), supported Kent Park & Rec activities, participated in the Parade of Lights , and led the annual SKS Feeds the Need initiative to benefit the local food bank. Additionally, South Kent has upheld a 30-year tradition of local community service spearheaded by Father Klots.

If you or your organization are interested in collaborating with South Kent for events or future Community Days, please contact Lara Barrett, barrettl@southkentschool.org

We look forward to celebrating with you—Go Cardinals!

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Reflecting on this special group of seniors, Head Coach Andrey Urayadov shared, “Our seniors have left their mark on South Kent Hockey, embodying dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. Their growth as athletes and individuals has been inspiring, and we couldn’t be more proud of what they’ve accomplished.”

The ceremony, arranged by the parents and coaches, was a heartfelt tribute, featuring banners, balloons, framed photos, and tote gift bags for each senior. It was a day filled with pride and gratitude, celebrating not only their achievements on the ice, but also the lasting impact they have had on the South Kent Hockey program.

18U AAA Seniors

🏒 Francis Dunham (#6) – A true leader on and off the ice, Francis’ work ethic and passion have set the tone for his teammates. His commitment to excellence will take him far in college and beyond.

🏒 Kristian Halbych (#21) – South Kent’s all-time leading scorer in 18U AAA history, Kristian’s playmaking skills and competitive spirit make him an asset to any program.

🏒 James Lu (#11) – James’ growth this year has been incredible, both as a player and a leader. His attention to detail and quiet confidence have made a lasting impression.

🏒 John McNamara (#24) – A relentless competitor, J-Mac pushed himself and his teammates every day, making massive strides both on the ice and in the gym.

🏒 Daniel Ragsdale (#1) – Known for his work ethic and infectious energy, “Rags” has been a driving force in the locker room and on the ice.

🏒 Thomas Puhalla (#30) – A rock in net, Thomas leaves South Kent as the record holder for wins, save percentage, and goals-against average—a testament to his preparation and skill.

18U Prep Seniors

🏒 Ethan Anderson (#6) – Though his path to South Kent was unexpected, Ethan quickly became an integral part of the team, bringing dedication and positivity to every practice and game.

🏒 Matteo Bertrand (#18) – Matteo’s journey from France to South Kent has been one of remarkable growth. His passion for the game and drive for excellence will serve him well as he pursues NCAA hockey.

🏒 Caylor Bullard (#11) – A three-year veteran, Caylor’s quiet determination and strong presence on the ice have been invaluable to the team.

🏒 Daniil Diachkov (#8) – A player with unmatched creativity and skill, Daniil’s unique approach to the game makes him stand out both on and off the ice.

🏒 Nick Kasich (#16) – Though Nick only spent one year at South Kent, his work ethic and coachability have made a lasting impression on his teammates and coaches.

🏒 Max Kogler (#1) – Focused, determined, and competitive, Max made the most of his time at South Kent and is well-prepared for the next step in his hockey career.

🏒 Bennett Law (#29) – A three-year veteran, Bennett excelled in both the classroom and on the ice and will continue his studies and hockey career at RIT.

🏒 Austin Michaud (#17) – Captain and Prefect, Austin’s transformation from young player to mature leader has been remarkable. His academic and athletic success have set him up for a bright future.

🏒 Mark Rosa (#19) – A recognizable leader in the community, Mark’s hard work and positivity have defined his time at South Kent.

🏒 Adam Salon (#23) – Adam’s unwavering positivity and dedication made his return after Christmas a huge boost to the team.

🏒 Jovanni Smeriglio (#15) – Jovanni stepped up when opportunity knocked, proving to be a key contributor in his time on the team.

As these remarkable young men move on to their next challenges in hockey, academics, and beyond, they leave behind a legacy of hard work, resilience, and excellence. The South Kent Hockey program is stronger because of their contributions, and we know they will continue to make South Kent proud wherever they go.

With deep appreciation, we thank our seniors for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to upholding the proud tradition of South Kent Hockey.

The event was also live streamed and can be viewed here:
AAA Hockey Senior Ceremony | South Kent School Senior Day 2025
Prep Hockey Senior Ceremony | South Kent School Senior Day 2025

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This past Sunday at Brown Gymnasium, South Kent School celebrated a special Senior Day for our Prep and Development Basketball teams, recognizing the 19 graduating players who have been instrumental in our program’s success. Senior Day is an annual tradition at South Kent, where we honor our seniors with their families, coaches, and teammates, celebrating their hard work, dedication, and leadership on and off the court.

The gym was packed with students, families, and staff, all coming together to cheer on our graduating players. The celebration included custom posters, framed photo collages, and a special on-court ceremony, where each senior had the opportunity to present flowers to their parents or guardians as a token of appreciation. The event was decorated with balloon bouquets and a team banner, and attendees enjoyed special cupcakes and cookies to mark the occasion.

Our seniors have shown tremendous growth, leadership, and commitment throughout their time at South Kent. Each of them has contributed something special to our basketball program, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.  More photos on Alumni Connection and all photos available for families on SmugMug

Prep Basketball Seniors:

🏀 Jaryn Aguiar – A standout guard with an incredible presence on the court, Jaryn was surrounded by 20+ family members sporting custom shirts in his honor. His infectious energy and skill made him a fan favorite.

🏀 Rashawn Tibby – A versatile post player, Rashawn’s ever improving skill set, made him an essential part of the team. His family celebrated his journey with a beautiful collage of memories from his career.

🏀 Adam Chicacchia – A true leader and one of the most improved players this season, Adam’s growth as both an athlete and teammate has been inspiring to watch.

🏀 Badara Diakte – A skilled player with great potential, Badara battled through injury this season and will continue his basketball journey at Iowa next year.

🏀 Dapo Kruyswijk – A solid post player, Dapo brought strength and intensity to the court every game.

🏀 Alexander Bryant – A hardworking, uber athletic student-athlete, Alexander has been a dedicated learner of the game, always looking to improve and push himself.

🏀 Tim Walker – A versatile skilled scoring guard, Tim brought toughness and a competitive spirit that the team sorely needed the season.

🏀 Shawn Spencer – A dedicated team member,and hard nosed defender, Shawn brought effort and energy to every practice and game.

🏀 Nathan Brazil – A tough competitor, who can also have big scoring nights, never backed down from a challenge.

🏀 Diallo Long – A key presence on the team, always pushing himself and his teammates to be better. Brought that Maryland area toughness every team needs.

🏀 Kaizen Settles – A determined player who worked tirelessly to develop his game.

🏀 Jonas deKrassel – A sharpshooter who consistently drained three-pointers all season. His impact as a long-range threat was undeniable.

🏀 Tres Luzey – A strong, determined guard who always gave maximum effort, even in limited playing time.

Development Basketball Seniors:

🏀 Liam Mail – A calm, composed guard who kept the team steady in crucial moments.

🏀 Nathaniel Horovitz – A high-IQ guard who brought strong leadership and decision-making to the court.

🏀 Lucas Land – A lightning-fast guard from Atlanta, Lucas’ speed and agility made him a tough matchup for any defender.

🏀 Johny Mathiang – A dedicated and hardworking team player who contributed in all aspects of the game.

🏀 Maddox Hughey – A solid post player who battled in the paint and showed great development.

🏀 Isaiah Young – A committed athlete who consistently brought energy and focus to practices and games.

At South Kent, our basketball program is about more than just wins and losses—it is about growth, teamwork, and preparing our athletes for success beyond the court. This year’s seniors have paved the way for future players, and we could not be prouder of their accomplishments.

To our graduating seniors, thank you for your dedication, leadership, and passion for the game. We wish you all the best in your next chapter—whether it be at the collegiate level or beyond. You will always be part of the South Kent brotherhood.

The post South Kent Basketball 2025 Senior Day appeared first on South Kent School.

When asked why he made this unconventional design choice, Thomas simply replied, “Why not?”

This playful yet skillfully executed piece is just one example of the innovative work on display at this year’s show. STEM faculty member Sarah Cassidy, who brings an engineering perspective to South Kent’s arts curriculum, believes pieces like Airplane highlight the deep connection between art and science.

“Leonardo da Vinci didn’t separate the two, and neither do we,” Cassidy said. “Art allows us to see the beauty in science, and science gives us the tools to bring art to life. Thomas’ work is an example of that intersection.”

With a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and mixed media projects from students across the region, the 34th Annual Student Art Show is a must-see event for art lovers, families, and anyone who appreciates the creative spirit. Don’t miss the chance to support young artists and experience the future of art firsthand.

📍 Kent Art Association
📅 February 22, 2025
🎟 Admission is free

For more details, visit www.kentart.org.

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“Almost no one likes grammar,” jokes Francesca Romani, World Languages instructor and part of South Kent’s Humanities Program. “You rarely hear someone say, ‘Let’s have a good hour of grammar!’ But at South Kent, we’ve taken an entirely different path. We equip students with a strong, essential foundation from the start, helping them realize how much they can express in another language with just a few core concepts.”

Instead of overwhelming students with grammar rules from day one, the program focuses on communication and practical application. Students begin by mastering essential structures—such as the present tense of ‘to have’ and ‘to be’—before progressively building their understanding of past participles, continuous tenses, and an expanded vocabulary.

“The words we learn most easily are the ones tied to our passions,” Romani explains. “So we help students build vocabulary in ways that feel personal and engaging. If they love sports, they watch games in the target language and annotate their new words in a journal. If they love travel, they create ‘tourist toolboxes’ with essential phrases for navigating a new country.”

Language courses at South Kent incorporate a variety of engaging real-world projects that go beyond textbooks:

French Sports Journalism: Inspired by their interest in sports, students launched “L’Équipe,” a French-language newsletter covering South Kent’s hockey and soccer teams.

Film & Literature Analysis: Students watch classic and contemporary films in their target language, then write and discuss their reflections entirely in French. “Our students were particularly drawn to François Truffaut’s Antoine Doinel films,” Romani says. “They connect with the mischievous, love-struck character on a personal level.”

Paris on a Budget: In this interactive exercise, students receive an imaginary budget and must plan a weekend trip to Paris,using only French-language travel websites to book hotels, transportation, and dining.

Create Your Own French Company: Students design a business from the ground up, writing an “about” section, mission statement, and contact page, then building a functional website using a French-language template.

Capstone Project—The French Revolution Reenactment: In collaboration with South Kent’s Student Clubs, language students will bring history to life by portraying real figures from the French Revolution, from farmers to noblemen to the king himself. “It’s an exciting way to immerse them in language while deepening their understanding of history,” Romani says.

South Kent’s Humanities Program emphasizes a well-rounded, intellectually rigorous education—one that cultivates engaged, thoughtful, and articulate students.

“Our commitment to the humanities is an essential part of preparing students for an increasingly interconnected world,” says Head of School Brian Sullivan. “Languages, literature, history, and the arts challenge students to think critically, engage with different perspectives, and communicate effectively. Whether they are analyzing historical events, debating philosophical ideas, or learning to express themselves in a new language, these experiences help build well-rounded individuals who will thrive in any field.”

Through interactive projects, global perspectives, and a commitment to experiential learning, South Kent’s World Languages Program is helping students become true global citizens—one conversation at a time.

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Watts, who was in the National Press Building that morning, was on his way to Capitol Hill when news broke of the attacks. He was at his bureau when the Pentagon was struck, and the Capitol was swiftly evacuated. Speaking to students, he described the “fog of uncertainty as people tried to figure out what was going on,” as news reports came in rapidly, and misinformation spread in the chaos of the moment.

While inside the National Press Building—just three blocks from the White House—Watts and others felt the impact of the plane hitting the Pentagon. The force of the explosion shook buildings in the heart of Washington, leaving many to wonder whether the White House or Capitol might be next.

Beyond the immediate devastation and loss of life, Watts also emphasized the stark impact on the financial system, along with the real sense of sadness and danger that lingered in the days and weeks after the attacks. Markets were thrown into disarray, with banks and financial institutions paralyzed by uncertainty. He spoke about the ripple effects of the disruption, as Wall Street ground to a halt and global markets reeled.

To give students a sense of how the media documented this unprecedented event, Watts shared MarketWatch’s front page from September 11, 2001, as well as coverage from the following week—when his Washington bureau office received an anthrax-laced package, part of a second wave of terror that further heightened national fears.

Students engaged in a thoughtful Q&A session, asking Watts about the feeling on the ground in D.C. and how people reacted in the moment. He described a city caught between shock, fear, and resilience, as journalists, government officials, and civilians all struggled to comprehend the scope of the attack.

The visit was organized by Humanities faculty member Ross LeBlond, whose students have spent the trimester exploring themes of change in American lives. As part of their coursework, students have been reading Reluctant Hero by Mike Benfante, a survivor who carried a woman in a wheelchair down 68 flights of stairs in the North Tower. By hearing firsthand from individuals who lived through 9/11—including several members of our South Kent Community, and now a journalist who covered the event—students are gaining a deeper, more personal understanding of the tragedy’s lasting impact.

“Even though this happened before they were born, the impact is still felt by those who lived through it,” LeBlond said. “By bringing in guests who experienced 9/11 in different ways, we’re helping students see that this isn’t just a chapter in a history book—it’s a moment that shaped the world they live in.”

For many students, Watts’ visit was an eye-opening experience, offering a direct link between history and its long-term consequences.

As one student, originally from Korea, reflected, “I knew about 9/11, but hearing about it from someone who was actually there made it feel real in a way I hadn’t understood before.”

South Kent continues to emphasize the importance of understanding history through personal narratives, ensuring that students see events not just as distant moments in time, but as experiences that shaped the world they live in today. Bill Watts’ visit reinforced that 9/11 is not just history—it is a story that still resonates, still teaches, and still matters.

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In recognition of Presidents Day and all of the esteemed service members from South Kent, we are excited to welcome Dr. Sean McFate ’88 for a virtual Pathways talk about his time on the Hillside and his extraordinary career in the military and beyond. McFate’s journey has taken him from the classrooms and athletic fields of South Kent to the front lines of modern warfare, global strategy, and academia.

A Visionary in Future Warfare

Dr. Sean McFate is a strategic maverick. Once in a generation, a uniquely qualified scholar-warrior with rare insight emerges to offer a divergent vision of future war. While many emphasize technology and firepower as the key to military dominance, McFate argues that the real battlefield advantage lies in strategic thinking. He challenges conventional wisdom, advocating for a paradigm shift in how Western powers approach conflict and security.

A Career Unlike Any Other

After graduating from South Kent in 1988, McFate embarked on a military career that saw him serve as a paratrooper in the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division. His path then led him into the world of paramilitary contracting and private intelligence, where he operated in some of the most volatile regions of the world. From negotiating with African warlords and raising armies for U.S. interests to conducting strategic reconnaissance for oil companies and preventing a potential genocide in the Rwanda region, McFate’s experiences are as diverse as they are impactful.

Scholar and Author

Despite his deep involvement in high-stakes global affairs, McFate pursued academic excellence, earning degrees from Brown University, Harvard University, and a PhD from the London School of Economics. Today, he is a leading voice in military strategy, a professor at Georgetown and Syracuse universities, and an acclaimed author. His writing, both non-fiction and fiction, sheds light on modern warfare in ways that traditional analyses cannot. His 2016 novel, Shadow War, originally conceived as a memoir, evolved into a gripping narrative exploring the shadowy world of covert operations in Eastern Ukraine—drawing heavily from his own experiences.

Join Us for This Special Event

South Kent School invites students, faculty, and alumni to join us for this exclusive virtual Pathways talk with Dr. Sean McFate. His insights into military strategy, national security, and global conflict promise to be both enlightening and inspiring. “I’m honored to share my journey with the South Kent community,” McFate said. “My time at South Kent shaped my character and leadership skills in ways I still draw upon today.”

Peter Thompson, a fellow South Kent alumnus and military veteran who works with the Advancement Team to support alumni engagement, emphasized the significance of McFate’s visit: “Sean’s career exemplifies the values we uphold at South Kent—courage, intellect, and service. His perspective on modern warfare and leadership will be invaluable for our students and alumni alike.”

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from one of South Kent’s most distinguished alumni as he shares his remarkable journey and groundbreaking ideas on the future of warfare.

For more about Sean McFate and his work, visit [www.seanmcfate.com].

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Advisory teams, consisting of two advisors and their students, rotated through eight different events, testing their skills, teamwork, and school spirit. The competitions ranged from athletic challenges to winter-themed fun, with one particularly popular stop: a s’mores bonfire by the pond, where students could warm up, enjoy some classic winter treats, and sip on hot cocoa, which was available all day.

Unforgettable Moments from the Games:

The Winter Olympics produced plenty of highlight-worthy moments, proving that this event is not just about competition—it’s about community, laughter, and creating memories. Some of the most talked-about moments of the day included:

🔥 Students Ditching Phones for Sleds – At one point, a group of students eagerly handed over their phones just so they could fully enjoy sledding without distractions. A rare sight and a testament to the fun had on the Hillside!

⚾ Harry Scott ’25 vs. Coach Hodge – In what almost became a legendary moment, Harry Scott ’25 nearly struck out Coach Hodge, but Colin got bailed out thanks to a hit-by-pitch. We’ll count it as a close call!

🚀 Brian’s Home Run to the Stratosphere – With the game on the line, Brian Vega ’28 sent a ball into orbit, tying up the score and sending the crowd into a frenzy.

❄️ Telmo’s Sledding Streak – We lost count of how many times Telmo Reino Perez ‘26 flew down the hill, but it was clear he was determined to set a record for most sled runs in a single day.

🏈 QB Javi to WR Zeek for the Game-Winning TD – In a thrilling football showdown, Javier Landin Madrid ‘25 launched a perfect deep ball to Isaiah ‘Zeek’ Young ‘25, who sealed the win with an epic touchdown catch.

🎿 Vignesh’s High-Speed Descent – In a moment reminiscent of National Lampoon’s sledding scene, Vignesh Reddy Paila ‘25 rocketed down the hill at lightning speed, barely avoiding Lew’s on his sled.

More Than Just Games:

While the Winter Olympics were full of competition, the true spirit of the event shone through in the camaraderie, laughter, and shared experiences. Our South Kent Winter Olympics were a reminder of what makes Hillside special—our strong community, our willingness to step outside and enjoy life together, and our ability to turn a simple winter day into an unforgettable event.

As we continue our Cardinal Games, the next round of outdoor Olympics will be in the Spring. Stay tuned.🏅🔥❄️

View all the PHOTOS HERE

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