Melanie Chia-Yu Sze ’65: Finding Joy in Learning & Adventure
Leigh Green
From teacher to librarian, paralegal to artist, Melanie “Mel” Chia-Yu Sze ’65, has lived many lives. Now a contributing photographer for National Geographic, Sze spends much of her time documenting her travels across the globe. This spring, Sze and her lens will journey through the Galapagos Islands, Munich, Kiev, and Odessa. Her photography reveals a joy found in learning and adventure that’s characteristic of her exceptional career.
Sze’s family emigrated from Shanghai in 1948 when she was just one year old. Her father parlayed a distinguished banking career in China into high-level economic consulting and a professorship in the U.S. He impressed upon his daughter the merit of quality education. “My dad emphasized to me that everything can be taken away from you except your education,” she says. “Shipley started me on a road to see its real value.”
It was a coincidence that brought Sze to Shipley. At a dinner party one night her parents had a chance encounter with two women who had taught them in China. Margaret Bailey Speer and Augusta Wagner were now Heads of The Shipley School and invited Sze to enroll.
While attending Shipley, Sze immersed herself in just about everything. She fondly recalls pottery, dance, theater, and a particular class trip to Washington, D.C., where she photographed cherry blossom trees. Unbeknownst to her, she’d unearthed a passion she would return to many lives later.
As one of Shipley’s most loyal donors, Sze supports the quality education that laid the groundwork for her remarkable career. As a lifelong learner and ceaseless adventurer, she exemplifies the power of such a foundation.
Alumni from the Classes of 1960, 1975, 1990, 2005, and 2020 share their Shipley stories—highlighting the traditions, teachers, and experiences that shaped who they are today.
Shipley’s Middle School history classrooms are alive with creativity, immersive projects, and hands-on learning. From muckraking magazines to trench art, students don’t just study history—they experience it, making meaningful connections to the past and present.
When the Flannellys relocated to Philadelphia, they sought a school where all four of their sons could thrive. Shipley stood out—not just for academics and activities, but for the deep, personal support that would shape their confidence and growth.
Kristina "Tammy" Rosqueta Kelly ’90 reflects on the Shipley teachers, friendships, and experiences that gave her confidence and shaped her worldview. Now a Shipley parent, she celebrates the traditions that connect her family across generations and the values that continue to endure.
Dan Blank ’05 reflects on his Shipley experience—immersive classes, unforgettable Shakespeare performances, and a deep commitment to service. From “Dan the Fan” to educator, he carries forward the values and passions sparked during his time at Shipley.
Declan Buckley ’20 reflects on the rigorous academics, supportive teachers, and wide-ranging opportunities that shaped his Shipley experience. From student government to the school musical, he embraced it all—building the confidence and curiosity he carries with him today.
In Gator Congregation Storytellers and Middle School’s 5 Minutes of Wisdom, students and faculty share personal, heartfelt stories—moments of growth, courage, and connection. These programs foster empathy, trust, and belonging, strengthening the relationships that make Shipley’s community so special.
The Shipley School Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Ian L. Craig as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2025. Mr. Craig brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in independent schools and a strong commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and program innovation.
Over the past five years, Shipley’s Cross Country program has surged forward, blending competitive success with a vibrant culture of personal growth and team spirit. This rise has been powered by an engaged community of runners, dedicated coaches, and a program spanning Lower, Middle, and Upper School.
Lower School students brought democracy to life through a spirited election, where Black Panther won the presidency of Alphagator Island after weeks of campaigning and civic engagement.
Geoff Flint ’90 reflects on Shipley’s lasting impact—from standout teachers and spirited traditions to global experiences and lifelong friendships. As he returns for his 35th Reunion, he recalls how Shipley prepared him for college, career, and a meaningful life.
From West Virginia to Shipley, Nancy Herkness Theodorou ’75 found joy in learning, lifelong friendships, and the freedom to explore her passions. She reflects on inspiring teachers, life as a boarder, and how Shipley shaped her path to Princeton and beyond.
From her earliest days in Shipley’s four-year-old nursery class to celebrating her 65th Reunion, Nancy Johnson Campbell ’60 reflects on inspiring teachers, lifelong lessons, and the School’s evolution—while cherishing the enduring Shipley spirit that has thrived through the decades.
For over 20 years, Shipley’s partnership with alumna Paige West ’86 and the West Collection has brought world-class contemporary art to the Speer Gallery, inspiring students to think boldly and engage with real-world ideas.
Shipley’s Speer Gallery, led by art teacher Julia Staples, is a vibrant hub for learning and connection, showcasing thought-provoking exhibits that spark conversation and inspire collaboration across subjects like History, Science, and English.
Read about the life and legacy of Nancy Lauber, Shipley’s Head of School from 1972 to 1979, who led the school through its transition to coeducation and made lasting contributions to academic innovation and campus expansion.
Read about how Shipley changed life for Sissy ffolliott ’70 and why she supports the Centennial Society—ensuring future generations receive the same transformative education and encouragement she experienced over 55 years ago.
Shipley’s dynamic history curriculum challenges students to think critically, engage deeply with diverse perspectives, and connect the past to today’s world. Explore how innovative electives and passionate educators bring history to life in 11th and 12th grade classrooms.
The Shipley School is a private, coeducational day school for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, located in Bryn Mawr, PA. Through our commitment to educational excellence, we develop within each student a love of learning and a desire for compassionate participation in the world.