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.

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].

The post Ep. 8 | Pathway Series: SKS Serves & Sean McFate ’88 appeared first on South Kent School.

South Kent School is thrilled to announce the next installment in our Pathways Series, featuring an extraordinary alumnus, Professor Sukehiro Hasegawa ’62. This highly anticipated talk is a unique opportunity to hear from a global leader whose life’s work has been deeply influenced by his time on the Hillside.

A Life of Global Impact

Professor Hasegawa has led a remarkable career as a diplomat, academic, and humanitarian. After graduating from South Kent School in 1962, he earned advanced degrees from institutions such as Stanford University and Yale University, building a foundation for an impactful career in international service. Among his many achievements, Professor Hasegawa served as the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Timor-Leste, playing a pivotal role in fostering peace and nation-building efforts in the region. His work exemplifies the values of resilience, leadership, and service instilled at South Kent.

Memories from the Hillside

During the Pathways talk, Professor Hasegawa will share reflections on how his South Kent experience shaped his worldview. From the rigorous academics to the close-knit community, he attributes much of his success to the foundational skills and mindset cultivated on the Hillside. This is a unique chance for current students, faculty, and alumni to connect with a true embodiment of South Kent’s mission to develop global citizens.

Preparing for Brian Sullivan’s Asia Visit

This Pathways talk also sets the stage for an exciting chapter for South Kent School’s international community. In March, Head of School Brian Sullivan will travel to Asia, accompanied by The Reverend Stephen Klots, Rich Brande ’88, and Dillon Duncan ’04. Their visit underscores the school’s commitment to fostering relationships with our alumni and families abroad, strengthening the bonds that tie our global community together.

Join Us

Don’t miss this inspiring Pathways event with Professor Sukehiro Hasegawa. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a proud alumnus, this talk is sure to leave you with a renewed sense of purpose and pride in South Kent School’s legacy of producing world leaders.

Stay tuned for details on how to attend the event, and be sure to follow our updates as we prepare for Head of School Brian Sullivan’s Asia visit in March.

The post Ep. 7 | Pathway Series: Global Peacekeeper Prof. Hasegawa ’62 appeared first on South Kent School.

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

The post Ep. 6 | Pathway Series: Music Innovation appeared first on South Kent School.

SKSPA Pathway Series: Insights from South Kent’s Renowned Hockey Program

South Kent School has a 100-year history as a nationally renowned hockey program, and this event is an opportunity to celebrate that legacy while learning from distinguished alumni, coaches, and experts.

Panelists Include:

Andrey Uryadov ’04
– Began his journey at South Kent as a student in 2000 and now serves as a Faculty member and Coach.
– Former captain of SKA St. Petersburg, leading his team to the Russian National Championships and earning a silver medal in the 1998-1999 season.
– Captain of South Kent’s hockey team, leading them to their first New England Prep School Ice Hockey Championship in 2004.
– Played Division I hockey at RPI and professionally in Europe.
– As a coach, he has led South Kent’s teams to multiple USPHL and National Championships, including the 18U National Title in 2017-2018.

Dillon Duncan ’04
– South Kent alum and Director of Constituent Engagement.
– Played USHL hockey for the Lincoln Stars, Division I hockey at Mercyhurst College, and professionally in Europe for two years.
– Recruited and Coached the inaugural U18AAA team at South Kent, ‘23 – ‘24

Rich Brande ’88, P’24
– A proud South Kent graduate who played at UConn and in the minor professional leagues.
– Former Director of Admissions at South Kent and leader in launching the South Kent Selects Hockey Academy, Currently Director of Engagement & Stewardship at SKS
– Recruited and Coached the inaugural U18AAA team at South Kent, ‘23 – ‘24

Todd Dougherty ‘90
– Current New England Scout for the Langley Rivermen (BCHL)
– Alumni scout for USA Hockey and former assistant coach.
– Played at Lake Forest College and Rochester Institute of Technology.
– Played 8 Professional sessions in the ECHL, CHL, CoHL, & WCHL

Paul Pechmann ‘87
– Captain and MVP of three sports (soccer , hockey, lacrosse) at SKS during his time on the Hillside.
– Was South Kent’s first ever New England Player of the Month, sponsored by the Hartford Whalers
– 16 years coaching Junior Hockey
– Head Coach and General Manager of the Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings
– Played for the UConn Huskies

This discussion promises to be insightful for parents, students, and alumni alike, with firsthand stories and expert advice on excelling in hockey while balancing academic and personal growth.

We hope you’ll join us for this engaging event and learn more about the pathways available through South Kent’s hockey program and its remarkable network. Let’s celebrate South Kent’s proud hockey tradition together.

See the below QA Panel – please note the opening was not recorded but the majority of the QA portion is available online below.

Contact Lara Barrett to be added to the dial in.

SEE ALL SOUTH KENT SCHOOL MASTERCLASS TALKS

The post Ep. 5 | Pathway Series: Hockey appeared first on South Kent School.

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

The post “The Pathway Series” Formally Launches appeared first on South Kent School.

See his video on SKS Alumni Connection.

Founders’ Day at South Kent School is a celebration of the values, mission, and history that have shaped the institution since its founding in 1923. It is a day when the school community comes together to honor the vision of the founders, who established the school with a commitment to fostering simplicity of life, self-reliance, and directness of purpose.

South Kent School has always been a place where boys are empowered to make a difference in their community while developing their potential as students, leaders, athletes, and citizens. From the start, the school has placed the student at the center of its life, supporting their growth through close partnerships with faculty and staff. This environment nurtures confidence and challenges each student to prepare for a life of accomplishment and service.

Core Values

– Simplicity of Life: The founders believed in the importance of responsibility and honesty. Simple actions, such as picking up a piece of litter, represent stewardship and appreciation for the gifts of the world. Simplicity serves as a reminder that there are no shortcuts to integrity and self-discipline.

– Self-Reliance: Through daily responsibilities and tasks, students learn to rely on their own abilities, fostering self-esteem and competence. South Kent places value on individual contributions, encouraging volunteers to take ownership of their roles, often before being asked.  

– Directness of Purpose: Built on trust and openness, the South Kent community thrives on honest communication. Each boy is encouraged to embrace his potential, with the school offering a family-like environment that celebrates the differences in culture, background, and talents among its members.

A Rich Tradition of Growth

Founders’ Day also reflects on the early history of the school, as recounted by Foster White, a member of the class of 1955. In the fall of 1923, twenty-four boys gathered in what was still a construction zone, with incomplete buildings and makeshift facilities. Despite the initial challenges of a new system, unfamiliar faces, and limited resources, the school quickly took shape.

White’s recollections highlight the sense of camaraderie and perseverance that defined the early days of South Kent. From learning to clean the dormitories to building sports traditions and overcoming practical obstacles like dishwashing and water shortages, the students and faculty worked together to build the foundation of the school.

In its first year, South Kent School celebrated holidays together, held spirited hockey games on the lake, and developed the structures and routines that would carry it forward. Founders’ Day allows the current South Kent community to look back with pride on these humble beginnings, reflecting on how far the school has come while staying true to its founding principles.

Celebrating Founder’s Day 

Today, Founders’ Day is a time to celebrate the school’s continued commitment to simplicity, self-reliance, and purpose. It’s a day when students, faculty, and alumni gather to honor the legacy of those who came before them and to reaffirm their dedication to the ideals that define South Kent.

Each year, Founders’ Day reminds us of the strength of the South Kent community and the ongoing importance of fostering a sense of family, honor, and service in the lives of its students. As we reflect on the journey from those early days to the present, we celebrate the traditions that have shaped generations of South Kent boys and look forward to the future with gratitude and purpose.

The post Founders’ Day Legacy 101 Years appeared first on South Kent School.

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.

The post Ep. 4 | NBA Legend & Alum Talks Fatherhood appeared first on South Kent School.

South Kent School is proud to announce Colin Hodge, new Director of Soccer on the Hillside to this Master Class Series where he shares his international playing career, coaching, and his first year on the HIllside.

Join Raphael Chillious to learn more about Colin Hodge and his first full year at the helm of South Kent School Soccer.

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.

The post Ep. 3 | A Talk with SKS Soccer Coach: Colin Hodge appeared first on South Kent School.

South Kent School proudly announces Alfie Jefferis, a 2024 graduate and hockey stand out to the Master Class Series.

Join Raphael Chillious and  Alfie Jefferis in this MasterClass as they explore the uniqueness of South Kent School. As a graduating student and dedicated hockey player, Alfie shares insights from his time at South Kent, highlighting the lessons learned both on and off the ice. Discover the secrets that make South Kent School a special place of character and achievement.

Alfie Jefferis is a standout student and hockey player from South Kent School. Additionally, he earned the prestigious opportunity to compete for his country Great Britain in the Hockey World Championship Games in Poland.

He is known for his exceptional skill, tenacity, and leadership on and off the ice.  Learn more about Alfie representing his school and country in the talk about this article about the competition in the World Championship game.

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.

The post Ep. 2 | 2024 Graduate Talks About SKS Experience appeared first on South Kent School.