We are launching the event in February with a special talk by South Kent alumnus Professor Sukehiro Hasegawa ’62, who will share stories of his time on the Hillside and insights from his esteemed career in international diplomacy. Reflecting on the upcoming event, Professor Hasegawa said, “South Kent instilled in me a deep sense of curiosity and resilience. I am honored to share my journey and discuss how the lessons I learned on the Hillside have shaped my work in international diplomacy.”

Joining us from the Hillside will be Head of School Brian Sullivan, The Reverend Steve Klots, and South Kent alumni leaders Dillon Duncan ’04 and Rich Brande ’88. Reflecting on this milestone event, Brian Sullivan shared, “South Kent’s influence extends far beyond the Hillside, and it’s truly special to bring our global community together to celebrate a century of excellence. This reunion is a testament to the lasting impact of a South Kent education.”

The Shanghai event will feature a variety of exciting activities, including a scenic boat cruise and an evening of karaoke. The highlight of the weekend will be a dinner hosted by Ron Xin Wang ’11 at his renowned restaurant, the Shanghai Yichun Garden Seafood Restaurant. Attendees will have the chance to reconnect with fellow alumni, share memories, and celebrate South Kent’s enduring spirit.

Following the gathering in China, the team will travel to Seoul and Tokyo for additional alumni events, further strengthening the bonds within our international community.

The Reverend Klots emphasized the significance of this reunion, stating, “The spirit of South Kent is one of lifelong brotherhood, and it’s incredible to see that bond transcending borders. This journey will not only reconnect alumni but also inspire future generations of South Kent students.”

We are excited to bring the South Kent family together in Asia for the first time. Stay tuned for more details, and we look forward to seeing you there!

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South Kent School presented Elissa Potts, owner of Kent’s beloved Fife N’Drum restaurant, with a framed watercolor by local artist Diane Meier and a certificate of gratitude and recognition from the School. The formal presentation, held at the Fife N’Drum, highlighted the restaurant’s decades-long partnership with the School and its vital role in fostering a sense of connection with students, families, alumni, and employees.

The watercolor, titled The Northern Lights Grace St. Michael’s Chapel, captures a rare and stunning moment on the Hillside when the Northern Lights illuminated the skies above South Kent this past October. The artwork, along with the certificate, symbolizes the deep appreciation South Kent School holds for the Fife N’Drum’s exceptional hospitality and unwavering support.

Head of School Brian D. Sullivan remarked on the enduring relationship, “Visiting the Fife is like coming home to friends—a place where cherished memories are made and shared. It’s more than a restaurant; it’s a gathering spot that fosters camaraderie, connection, and a sense of belonging. At South Kent, we believe

deeply in the power of people and place, and the Fife exemplifies this spirit. It bridges the School and the town, bringing together individuals whose passion and dedication profoundly shape the lives of our students and strengthen our entire community.”

The Fife N’Drum has been a steadfast supporter of all the area schools for years, welcoming students, families, and faculty alike with warmth and generosity. The certificate presented to Elissa Potts reads, in part:

“In heartfelt recognition of your exceptional hospitality and unwavering support of South Kent School and the South Kent community. Your years of generosity and dedicated service have fostered a sense of belonging and inspiration within us all.”

The relationship between South Kent School and the town of Kent has long been one of mutual respect and collaboration, with establishments like the Fife N’Drum playing a pivotal role in enriching the lives of the School’s students and broader community.

As South Kent School looks to the future, it remains committed to nurturing these vital bonds, ensuring that the spirit of partnership and gratitude continues to illuminate the Hillside and the town it calls home.

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South Kent School mourns the loss of Robert “Bob” John MacLean, a devoted educator, leader, and advocate for young men’s education, who passed away peacefully at his home in Wilson, Wyoming, on December 14, 2024, at the age of 87.

Born on February 18, 1937, in Coronado, California, Bob’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to education, athletics, and service. A graduate of Bronxville High School and Colby College (Class of 1960), Bob began his distinguished career as an educator, excelling in teaching, coaching, and mentoring. His time at Rye Country Day School is remembered for his impact as an English teacher, head coach of Varsity Hockey and Lacrosse, and architect of the Gerald LaGrange Field House—a lasting tribute to his dedication to athletics.

Bob’s love of hockey was a hallmark of his life. From founding the Wildcat Hockey Camp to his influential roles in coaching associations and clinics, his passion for the sport left an indelible legacy. His leadership extended beyond education and athletics; as co-owner of World Championship Motorsports, Bob brought the same drive and vision to international motorsports.

At South Kent School, Bob’s profound legacy is etched into the fabric of the Hillside. Serving on the Board of Trustees from 1990 to 1999 and as Board President from 1995 to 1999, Bob’s leadership helped shape the School’s path forward. His dedication, vision, and generosity left an indelible mark on the School’s community and mission.

The School’s most distinguished honor, The Robert J. and Mary Anna MacLean Distinguished Service Award, was established in 1999 in recognition of the extraordinary effort, achievement, and service exemplified by Bob and his wife, Mary Anna. The inscription on the award reads:

“The Robert and Mary Anna MacLean Distinguished Service Award was established in 1999 by the Board of Trustees of South Kent School to recognize the extraordinary effort, achievement, and service of a person or persons on behalf of South Kent School. The award is named after its first recipients, two individuals who set the standard for service in the modern history of the School.”

Bob’s unwavering commitment to South Kent School was matched only by his passion for education and his belief in the transformative power of the School. His leadership and generosity during his tenure as Board President helped strengthen the foundation of the School and pave the way for a brighter future.

Beyond South Kent, Bob served his community in myriad ways, including his work on the boards of the Teton County Sheriff’s Auxiliary and the New York Shakespeare Globe. In Wilson, Wyoming, he found joy in fly fishing, time spent on his ranch, and supporting local causes such as the Jackson Hole Land Trust and the National Museum of Wildlife Art.
Bob’s contributions to South Kent were monumental, and his belief in the mission of the School continues to inspire us. We are deeply grateful for all Bob did to ensure South Kent’s enduring legacy. He will always be a part of our Hillside story.
Servant, well done.

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Pathways: Jonathan Wilson ’84 – Crafting a New Instrument and Legacy

South Kent School alumnus Jonathan Wilson ’84 has charted an extraordinary journey from the Hillside to the forefront of musical innovation. Renowned for inventing the GuitarViol, a modern hybrid of the guitar and viola da gamba, Jonathan’s work bridges centuries of musical tradition with cutting-edge artistry. He will share his story and insights on the upcoming Pathways Alumni Panel alongside Dillon Duncan ’04 and Rich Brande ’88.

Watch Below

A Passion for Music and Innovation

Jonathan’s relationship with music spans more than four decades, with 30 years dedicated to realizing his vision for a modern Arpeggione—a bowed guitar first conceived by Johan Staufer in 1823. In 1993, he collaborated to create an early version of the instrument but found it lacking the versatility he desired. By 2002, out of personal frustration, Jonathan built the first “TogaMan” prototype to meet his performance needs.

The response was immediate and overwhelming. Without even a dedicated website, Jonathan’s MP3 artist page drew inquiries, and by the end of that year, the first official TogaMan GuitarViol was commissioned. Demand grew so quickly that GuitarViols Inc. developed a lengthy waitlist, primarily comprised of Film and TV composers.

A Soundtrack to Modern Media

The GuitarViol has since become a go-to instrument for some of the world’s most notable composers. Its evocative tones, combining the resonance of a bowed instrument with the familiarity of a guitar, lend themselves beautifully to cinematic soundscapes. In 2006, Tyler Bates used the GuitarViol in his score for the movie 300, catapulting the instrument into the spotlight. Today, GuitarViols are a staple in film, TV, and video game soundtracks, with their distinctive sound heard daily across global media.

The TogaMan Identity

The name TogaMan was inspired by Paolo Veronese’s 1563 painting The Wedding at Cana, which features a toga-clad viol player holding the instrument like a guitar. Jonathan embraced this imagery to define his brand, opting for a name that set him apart from other builders while reflecting the instrument’s historical roots and innovative design.

Beyond the Music

Jonathan’s inventive spirit and entrepreneurial journey have turned his vision into an enduring legacy. His Valencia, California-based company, GuitarViols Inc., continues to refine the GuitarViol, pushing its design to new levels of artistry and craftsmanship.

Pathways Alumni Panel

Jonathan’s story reflects the South Kent ethos of embracing challenges, pursuing passions, and innovating boldly. We are thrilled to welcome him to the next Pathways Alumni Panel, where he will discuss his journey, the creative process behind his invention, and the impact of his work on the world of music and beyond.

Join us in celebrating Jonathan’s inspiring path from South Kent to a global stage of artistic achievement.

READ the Music on LA Times Article

Hear more from his musicians and creators on YouTube (WATCH)

SEE ALL SOUTH KENT SCHOOL MASTERCLASS TALKS

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South Kent School is pleased to announce the launch of The Pathway Series alongside Masterclasses. Pathways is a dynamic program aimed at connecting our students with accomplished alumni, career experts, and notable figures across various fields. This series will offer our community an enriching platform to explore the diverse paths of success that South Kent alumni and other professionals have taken, demonstrating the enduring value of a Hillside education.

Designed to engage, educate, and inspire, The Pathway Series includes four unique components, each focusing on different aspects of career, academic, and personal growth. These events will provide real-world insights and mentorship opportunities that highlight the resilience and leadership qualities our students can aspire to emulate.

Pillars of the Series:

1. Alumni Stories
   Objective: Inspire students by sharing the unique journeys of South Kent alumni as they discuss career achievements, challenges, and lessons learned along the way.
   Format: One-on-one interviews or panel discussions, followed by Q&A sessions, allowing current students to ask questions and engage directly with alumni.
   Purpose: To bring to life the many possible futures available to our students by showing how fellow alumni have leveraged their South Kent education to make a positive impact in their chosen fields.
2. Hillside Masterclasses with the Head of School
   Objective: Hosted by Head of School Brian Sullivan, these masterclasses will invite alumni and special guests to speak on high-impact topics like leadership, innovation, and ethical decision-making.
   Format: Masterclasses and interactive workshops that encourage student participation and active discussion.
   Purpose: To foster intellectual curiosity and provide valuable life and career insights that can inspire students’ personal and professional growth.
3. Professional Pathways
   Objective: Offer students insights into a variety of professional fields, from finance and technology to public service and the arts, with real-world advice and career-building strategies from experts.
   Format: Career panels, breakout workshops, and networking sessions that provide practical guidance and actionable steps for career success.
   Purpose: To equip students with industry knowledge and mentorship that can help guide their future career decisions.
4. Performance Journeys
   Objective: Support student-athletes by featuring discussions with coaches, athletes, and sports industry professionals on achieving excellence both on and off the field.
   Format: Roundtable discussions, athlete spotlights, and skill-building workshops.
   Purpose: To inspire young athletes with firsthand accounts of perseverance and dedication, providing a roadmap for athletic and personal growth.

Get Involved: Calling Alumni and Guest Speakers

We invite our alumni to join The Pathway Series as guest speakers, mentors, and panelists, sharing insights and experiences that can shape the next generation of South Kent students. By participating, you have the unique opportunity to give back to the School and make a meaningful impact. Whether it is discussing career milestones, sharing valuable lessons, or mentoring students, your involvement will help reinforce the School’s Trinity of Values and mission.

Stewarding the Future

As we launch The Pathway Series, we look forward to welcoming alumni and guest speakers eager to share their expertise, motivate students, and strengthen the South Kent community. Together, we can guide and inspire the journeys of our current students and future generations.

For more information on how to get involved or attend, please contact Lara Hanson Barrett: barrettl@southkentschool.org

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South Kent School is thrilled to announce the appointment of two outstanding individuals as Co-Chairs of the South Kent School Parent Association (SKSPA): Angélique DeSanto, mother of fifth-former and hockey standout Nathan DeSanto, and Steven Quinones, father of sixth-form soccer star Preston Quinones and South Kent alumnus Alex Quinones ’19. Angélique and Steven bring enthusiasm, dedication, and unique perspectives to their leadership roles within the South Kent parent community.

Angélique, an active and passionate supporter of South Kent, shared her excitement: “I’m thrilled to be part of the SKSPA leadership and have the chance to give back to this incredible community. The energy and spirit among South Kent parents are inspiring, and I look forward to working together to support our sons, celebrate their achievements, and build lasting connections.”

Joining her, Steven brings a deep commitment to the South Kent community, having been involved as both a current and former parent. “Being part of the SKSPA is an opportunity to enhance the experience of all South Kent families, just as South Kent has profoundly shaped my sons’ lives,” Steven said. “I’m honored by this trust and look forward to working alongside Angélique to make this a memorable year for South Kent parents.”

Carol-Ann Bruen, Director of SKSPA, expressed her enthusiasm for the new co-chairs: “I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Angélique and Steven. Their positivity and dedication to fostering a connected community will inspire all of us to engage, connect, and celebrate our sons’ journeys.”

Head of School Brian Sullivan also emphasized the importance of parent involvement at South Kent: “The Parent Association plays a vital role in connecting families and supporting our mission to nurture strong, independent young men. I am grateful for our parent leaders and look forward to the initiatives and engagement Angélique and Steven will bring to SKSPA.”

With Angélique and Steven leading the way, SKSPA looks forward to a year filled with meaningful events, community-building opportunities, and a vibrant, supportive environment that embodies South Kent’s spirit.

A special thank you to our Form and Team leads: Alex Scott, Beth Kruger, Bonnie Wang, Barbara Kenney, Alle Hill, Leslie Birden, Tamera Luzon, Nicole DiMartino, and Danielle Dunster.

If you would like more information or have any questions, please contact Carol-Ann Bruen in the Advancement Office
Office: 860.927.3539 x 205

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On Saturday, November 2nd at 10:00 a.m., South Kent School students gathered to clean and restore the gravestones at St. Michael’s Chapel Cemetery in honor of All Saints’ Day. This annual tradition holds special meaning for the South Kent community, connecting students with the school’s past and commemorating the lives of former students, faculty, and staff who have shaped the South Kent legacy.

The Reverend Stephen Klots shared the significance of this tradition: “At South Kent, during what might be called the octave of All Saints’ Day, we still pray in St. Michael’s Chapel by name for all former students, faculty, and staff members who have passed on to their eternal reward. Each year, we also honor and remember those buried in the chapel cemetery by cleaning up the cemetery and their gravestones. In part, this is a mark of our gratitude for the school they have passed on to us.”

This act of remembrance resonates deeply with the entire South Kent community, who appreciate the commitment to honoring the school’s heritage and those who helped build it. The cemetery clean-up is a meaningful reminder of South Kent’s dedication to tradition and stewardship. The School instills gratitude through both words and deeds, linking past and present generations to the Hillside.

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Sarge is known for delighting audiences of all ages with humor that comes straight from the heart. He’s not just a comedian – he’s a self-taught piano savant, an engaging motivational speaker, and the author of Black Boychick, a memoir that chronicles his life’s ups and downs with both laughter and wisdom. His comedic style, often compared to that of Don Rickles, blends rapid-fire observations with a spontaneous, uproarious energy, leaving audiences enthralled and entertained.

Born in Miami Beach, Florida, during the Civil Rights Movement to a Jewish mother and a Black father, Sarge’s journey was marked by its challenges from the start. Adopted by a loving family in Great Neck, Long Island, he was raised in an upper-middle-class Jewish household. It was here, at the age of six, that his musical gift first appeared. After attending a Broadway performance of The Sound of Music,Sarge sat down at the piano and began playing songs from the show entirely by ear, a talent he would develop over the years.

South Kent School Alumni shares his story on the Hillside.

As he grew up, Sarge’s comedic talents were just as evident as his musical skills. By age seven, he was cracking jokes and doing impressions at his grandfather’s card games. His exposure to live entertainment in the Catskill Mountains ignited a passion for performing that would shape his future.

Sarge’s path, however, was not without its difficulties. As an adult, he wrestled with feelings of confusion and identity, having been raised with little connection to his Black heritage. These internal conflicts led him down a dangerous road of addiction and homelessness. Yet, on December 26, 1990, Sarge experienced a life-changing epiphany. He committed himself to sobriety, and from that day on, has been dedicated to helping others overcome addiction, even pioneering a groundbreaking “Comedy Therapy” in recovery centers.

After attending South Kent School, where he was honored for his musical talent and lettered in football, Sarge went on to study at Boston University’s School of Public Communication, where he was dubbed “Sarge” by the football guys on his floor. His career in entertainment took him from working as a talent representative to performing on some of the most famous stages in the world. He’s shared the spotlight with legends like Aretha Franklin, Paul Anka, and Natalie Cole and has performed for our troops in Iraq.

Today, Sarge is a highly sought-after motivational speaker, bringing humor and healing to audiences across the country. His work has even extended to prison recovery programs, with his documentary Sarge Behind Bars receiving critical acclaim.

In his return to South Kent School, Sarge is set to inspire and entertain, giving students a firsthand look at how humor, perseverance, and talent can overcome even the greatest obstacles. We are thrilled to welcome him back to the Hillside for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.

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From 2014-2016, Joel Farabee lit up the score sheet, totaling 82 points in 55 games for South Kent.

Farabee also has a plethora of experience on the global stage, playing for the U17, U18, the National Team Development Program, and U20 national teams. During the 2018-2019 campaign, Farabee recorded three goals and two assists in seven games for the IIHF’s World Juniors Roster.

Most notably, he just finished a breakout season for the Flyers, scoring a career-high in goals (22) and assists (28). Farabee’s offensive ascension has raised a lot of eyebrows, making him a coveted free agent once the Stanley Cup Playoffs conclude.

Shane Pinto, a rising star, has also donned the red, white, and blue, representing the USA in the 2020 World Junior Championships. Despite being just 3 years out of the University of North Dakota, Pinto has been making a name for himself with the Ottawa Senators.

Even with only half a season under his belt, Pinto managed to rack up a career-high of 27 points over a 41-game span. His explosive style of play and knack for scoring in creative ways make him a key player in the USA’s quest for global supremacy.

Alongside other NHL superstars such as Johnny Gaudreau and Trevor Zegras, these South Kent alumni begin their chase for gold on May 10 against Sweden. For more hockey updates and information on South Kent Hockey alumni, visit our hockey page and click on the NHL Player Bios.

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Dorell Wright ’04 shares his experience of moving from Los Angeles to South Kent School and his transition from the Hillside to the NBA in Episode 4 of South Kent School’s Masterclass Series.

South Kent School is proud to invite SKS Alumnus Dorell Wright ’04 back to the Hillside for this special Father’s Day episode in our Masterclass Series. In this episode, Wright discusses how South Kent helped him develop on and off the court, leading to his success in the NBA.

Join Raphael Chillious to learn more about Dorell Wright’s journey from South Kent School to the pros, and the importance of family support, good mentors, and hard work along the way.

Topics & Highlights

• Raphael Chillious and Dorell Wright discuss Wright’s South Kent experience.

• Wright shares what he learned on and off the court: getting out of your comfort zone, developing lifelong skills like public speaking, and learning how to be a good leader.

• Chillious and Wright discuss South Kent’s focus on culture and accountability, along with Dorell’s parents’ positive influence on his values and mindset during his teenage years, which contributed to Dorell’s readiness for the pros.

• The conversation shifts to fatherhood, with Wright emphasizing the need to be a good role model.

• Wright shares his parenting and coaching philosophy, highlighting the impact of his AAU coach’s advice to attend prep school for a direct path to the NBA. His parents emphasized the importance of education and college before pursuing a professional basketball career.

• Wright and Chillious share moments of realization of their NBA potential, including standout performances in games and recognition from coaches about their talent and future in professional basketball.

• Wright talks about his experience as a rookie in the NBA, playing with veterans and mentors like Shaquille O’Neal, Eddie Jones, Dwyane Wade, and Pat Riley, who emphasized the importance of hard work, player development, and adopting the ‘Mamba Mentality’ to succeed in the league.

• Wright highlights the importance of having options beyond the sport, such as college, and he and Chillious discuss the value of education and hard work.

• Wright reflects on his time at South Kent, highlighting the importance of navigating obstacles and staying focused on goals, despite challenges.

• Wright pays tribute to his inspirations, including his dad, coaches, and D-Wade, emphasizing the impact they had on his personal growth and development.

• Chillious and Wright end their talk with a nod to the South Kent “brotherhood” and lasting relationships formed at the School, highlighting the support and camaraderie shared among South Kent peers.

Want to Join The Chillzone?
Whether you’re an alum or a member of the extended South Kent community, we welcome you to our Masterclasses. Connect to learn more about upcoming sessions and how you can participate in this engaging series.

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