About
Our Community
The Shipley Community is made up of a diverse group of students, colleagues, parents, and alumni. To us, community is more than just a collection of people. It's one of the most important aspects of a Shipley education and defines the Shipley experience. Meet some of the people who make up our community and learn more about what makes it so special.
Steve Piltch
Shipley's Head of School
Shipley's Head of School
Alumni
List of 46 news stories.
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Daniela Elena Franco ’99: Inspiring Children to Read
Read MoreSince 2015, Daniela Elena Franco ’99 has served as Director of Libros Para Todos, a Mexican nonprofit dedicated to inspiring children to read, with a particular focus on children and young adults in rural communities, where access to books is limited. “I love reading and I love spreading that love to children. I get to see children own their first book and discover how fulfilling it is to get lost in a book,” she says about what she excites her most about her work. We recognize Daniela Elena Franco ’99 as a Shipley Changemaker and applaud the work she is doing to make a positive impact in the world. Read a Q & A with Daniela to learn more about her and her work. -
Lura Coleman Wampler ’56, Frances Weston & the Enduring Influence of a Teacher
It was Mrs. Frances Weston, Lura Coleman Wampler ’56’s Shipley chemistry teacher, who inspired her to pursue chemistry as a major in college. As a student and later, Lura performed research on the effects of various factors on the body during space travel, and she was present at the first successful open-heart surgery to use an oxygenator. Later, she returned to Shipley to teach chemistry, the subject she had learned to love while she was a student here. As a teacher for 22 years, Lura influenced an entire generation of students, with many of whom she maintains close ties.Read More -
Melanie Chia-Yu Sze ’65: Finding Joy in Learning & Adventure
Read MoreFrom teacher to librarian, paralegal to artist, Melanie “Mel” Chia-Yu Sze ’65, has lived many lives. As a lifelong learner and ceaseless adventurer, her career exemplifies the power of the excellent, multi-faceted education she received at Shipley. “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 [education’s] real value.” -
Whitney Stengel Kellett '89: Four Generations of A Shipley Education
Read MoreWhitney Stengel Kellett ’89, CIO at Aqua America, is part of a four-generation Shipley family. She values the compassion and broad thinking fostered by a Shipley education, in addition to its rigorous academic preparation – for herself and for her third-grade daughter. -
Elizabeth Ralph ’06: Living a Life of Insatiable Curiosity
When Elizabeth Ralph ’06, was invited to join Politico Magazine in 2013, the Yale graduate leapt at the chance. As Deputy Editor, she oversees web publishing, monitors the article pipeline, and does “a ton of editing and assigning.” Shipley nurtured her drive towards discovery. “Shipley encouraged challenging conventional wisdom. My teachers were always willing to let me explore.”Read More -
June Baldwin ’68: Using the Medium For Meaningful Messages
June Baldwin ’68 has enjoyed a remarkable career in broadcast television. She’s held a driving, steadfast focus on social impact. “Television’s a powerful medium for transforming consciousness, for giving a voice to those who don’t have one,” she says. And Shipley’s motto, Courage for the Deed; Grace for the Doing has been at the heart of her work.Read More -
The Vale Family Shipley Story: Prepared to Succeed
Elizabeth Vale ’72, Managing Director at Morgan Stanley and significant member of the Obama White House, credits Shipley with teaching her everything she needed to know. She valued her Shipley education so much, she sent her daughter Ann ’03 to Shipley, where she, too, received an education that prepared her for a successful future.Read More -
Edie Harding ’71: Making a Difference through Education
Edie Harding ’71 has spent her career ensuring a quality education for others. As Senior Program Officer for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, she focuses primarily on early childhood development, particularly for low-income students and students of color, and is a strong supporter for integrated social-emotional curricula such as Shipley’s own SEED program.Read More -
Prashant Bhuyan ’96: Pioneer in the Field of Artificial Intelligence
Prashant Bhuyan ’96 is a digital entrepreneur and cognitive data scientist who specializes in developing artificial intelligence solutions to help financial enterprises make better informed decisions. Shipley provided him with a “foundation to be introspective,” while also pushing him towards exploration that ultimately fostered his entrepreneurial spirit.Read More -
Dana Veraldi ’02: Drawing Inspiration to Build a Brand
You’ve probably seen Dana Veraldi ‘02’s t-shirts on friends and in magazines. Her brand book is a portfolio both of her products and her art. With fans like Justin Bieber, Orlando Bloom, and Mark Ruffalo, DEERDANA has achieved a cult following. Read about how this artist and Shipley alumna got her start and how her success has grown.Read More -
Roxana Barry Robinson ’64: Defender of the Written Word
“I think writers are writers from the beginning,” says Roxana Barry Robinson ’64, who has enjoyed a decades-long career as a critically acclaimed journalist and author of fiction and biography. In her role as president at the Authors Guild, Robinson looks after the future of the writing profession. Read more about this award-winning author and Shipley alumna.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Prashant Bhuyan ’96: Staying Relevant with Curiosity and Creativity
“I’ve never really had a job,” says Prashant Bhuyan ’96, an investment technology entrepreneur and data scientist whose latest project puts him squarely in the middle of the booming data revolution and budding artificial intelligence space. "Creativity and imagination are what's going to keep us relevant in the age of artificial intelligence,” says Bhuyan, “Places like Shipley foster this kind of thinking.” Learn more about Prashant Bhuyan and how he’s harnessed his curiosity and creative thinking to build revolutionary investment technologies.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Erika Frankel ’96: An Appetite for Documenting Life
Read MoreWhen Philadelphia’s famed French chef Georges Perrier announced he would close his iconic restaurant, Le Bec-Fin, scores of fine-diners sadly took note and quickly made reservations for a final meal at the Center City restaurant. For documentary filmmaker and Shipley alumna Erika Frankel ’96, the news inspired much more than dreams of a decadent dinner. Read more about Frankel's most recent film project and how she is finding success in following her passion for storytelling through film. -
Dr. Raffi Gregorian '81: Keeping the Peace Across the Globe
From the simple act of rescuing a street dog in Bosnia to the intricacies of coordinating international counterterrorism policy, Dr. Raffi Gregorian ’81 continually strives to make the world a better, more peaceful place. Throughout his nearly 30-year career, Dr. Gregorian has played a significant role in high-level foreign and security affairs, as both a civilian and as a Naval officer, at the helm of interagency, complex, and multinational post-conflict operations.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Catherine Stewart '01: In the Business of Working Hard
Read MoreCatherine Stewart ’01 credits her Shipley teachers with teaching her how to work hard and developing in her a respect for process. Now, after graduating from Yale and Cambridge, she has built a successful and exciting career in business, helping companies like Random House, Facebook, and Automattic (the company behind WordPress.com) to grow. -
Helen Thackray '86: Developing Treatments through Biotechnology
Dr. Helen Thackray ’86 has had a successful career in medicine and biotechnology, thanks to the solid academic foundation she received in math and science at Shipley. As the Chief Medical Officer & Vice President of Clinical Development at GlycoMimetics, she is currently working on a treatment for sickle cell disease, while holding a position as Assistant Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the George Washington University School of Medicine. Learn more about Dr. Thackray.Read More -
Why I Give: Betsy Paluck Rath '95
Betsy Paluk Rath ’95 feels fortunate to be able to give back to Shipley, and hopes that her contributions help preserve the School’s resources and the community she benefited from so it will be there for the next generation.Read More
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Alumni Spotlight on Hannah Nicholas ’06: Following a Musical Path
Read MoreShipley alumna Hannah Nicholas ’06 has made a career out of her love of music, most recently joining the New World Symphony Orchestra as a violist. She credits Shipley with encouraging her to follow her own path and develop a strong sense of individuality. That sense informs her varied musical explorations and pursuits, and fuels her drive to continue learning. -
Spotlight on Jay Jennings '91: Middle School Math Teacher and Coach
Jay Jennings ’91 redefines what it means to be a “lifer” at Shipley. As a Middle School math teacher and coach for the last 21 years, he tries to connect on a personal level with the students he teaches and coaches as a way of inspiring them to learn and strive for excellence.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Dammun Pierce ’90: Reaching His Potential
Dr. Dammun Pierce ’90 addressed the Class of 2015 as Shipley’s Commencement speaker. Learn more about his life growing up in North Philadelphia and the opportunities Shipley offered for his future.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Justin Shipley ’00: Success in Filmmaking
From the moment Justin Shipley '00 arrived at the School in eighth grade, he gravitated to the arts, where he made notable contributions to the stage and the visual arts. Bright, clever and tenacious, Justin had a critical eye, a passion for art, and something to say. After graduation, Justin moved to Los Angeles in order to pursue a career in film. Ingenuity and hard work landed him his first job, which has been followed by a series of professional successes, including an Emmy.Read More -
Karen Krok '93: Giving Back, Giving Opportunity
Karen Krok '93, a transplant hepatologist and medical director for the live donor transplant program at the Hershey Medical Center, benefited from the generosity of gifts made to Shipley when she attended the School with the help of financial aid. Now, she gives back to Shipley to give others the same opportunities she had.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Tom Stewart '05: Kickstarting a Career in the Great Outdoors
Young alumnus Tom Stewart '05 was determined to launch a successful business after graduation from college. After a few failed attempts, he and his business partner found success with Sunski, which sells vintage-inspired sunglasses for people who love the outdoors.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Molly Gilbert '02: A Recipe for Success
This young Shipley alumna has turned her passion for cooking and creativity in the kitchen into a successful career and book deal. Read more about her path to success and how Shipley helped blogger Molly Gilbert '02 develop the skills she needed to get there.Read More -
Ali Lambert Voron '96: Expert in the Field of Overcoming Adversity
Ali Lambert Voron '96 knows about overcoming adversity. A voiceover actress, motivational speaker, and blogger, Voron also happens to have alopecia universalis and has suffered from ulcerative colitis. She shares her experience overcoming health challenges to help others struggling with chronic conditions in her work as a coping expert.Read More -
Why I Give: Colin Gardner '88
Though Colin Gardner '88 lives in Brooklyn, New York, his ties to Shipley are as strong as ever. Gardner recognizes with great appreciation the lasting effects of his Shipley education. As such, he makes it clear that Shipley factors large among the institutions that he supports each year.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Jay Huffman '94: Leading from the Front
A seventh grade history trip inspired this West Point graduate's interest in the military. Now an attorney, he represents foreign ships coming in and out of the U.S.'s largest port.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Donna Leavy '73: For the Love of Theater
This alumna's deeply rooted love of acting was planted at Shipley, where she formed the start of her successful career in Hollywood.Read More -
Felicity Barringer Taubman ’68: Exploring the Complexities of World Affairs
For not quite three decades, Shipley alumna Felicity Barringer Taubman ’68 served as a correspondent for The New York Times. From her start writing for The Bergen Record and The Washington Post, to her years of writing for The Times about the dying Soviet Union in the Gorbachev-era, and through her current work as a national environmental correspondent, Barringer has concentrated on explicating complex issues. She wants to show the subtleties of world affairs to the general public. Here, Barringer reflects on her experience at Shipley, the evolution of her career, and why she feels it’s important to remain connected to her alma mater.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Alice Bosley '07: Innovation at the United Nations
This young alumna draws deeply on her Shipley experience in her work to help innovate the office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Gail Harrity '69: Mastering the Fine Art of Museum Management
As President and Chief Operating Officer of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Gail Harrity '69 enjoys the diverse responsibilities of her job and the opportunities to learn. "Shipley instilled a sense of intellectual curiosity to see the world anew," she says.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Akinwole Garrett ’00: Brilliant In Business
A driven business leader with a deep passion for his community, Akinwole (Aki) Garrett ’00 has achieved remarkable success as a business leader, thanks to exceptional determination and a solid foundation from Shipley.Read More -
Todd McDevitt Hopkins '77: Reaping What Shipley Sowed
Fourteen years at Shipley instilled a desire and passion for learning that fuels this alumna's work as both a full-time pediatric physical therapist and owner of her family's 160-acre sustainable, pasture-based farm.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Nate Bronstein '08: Future Social Policy Maker
While he was at Shipley, this All School President made a real impact in the community. Five years later he continues to follow his lifelong pursuit of making a difference in the world.Read More -
Dr. Beverly Vaughn '69: The Confidence to Excel
She was the first African-American student in her class during a time of great cultural change. Now, Shipley's philosophy of excellence continues to be at the core of her distinguished career as a doctor.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Victoria Messerschmidt '12: Engineering a Bright Future
This math and science lover credits Shipley for not only preparing her academically to excel at Purdue, but also initiating her very presence at the campus where she is now thriving.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Thomas Van Dyck '99: Working Towards Perfection with the Boston Symphony Orchestra
This alumnus competed against 200 musicians for a coveted position in one of the world's finest bass sections. Find out how his varied musical interests and dedication to his art helped him land the job.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Bryant Horsley '97: Prepared for Success
This attorney attributes his success in college to Shipley's rigorous program, which prepared him to receive undergraduate, Master's, and two law degrees in just nine years.Read More -
Penny Dyson Foley '63: Investment Pioneer
As a pioneer for women in investment banking, Penny has dedicated her extraordinary career to working in emerging markets around the globe.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Geoff Gross '98: In Pursuit of Excellence
Geoff Gross is only 15 years out of high school, but he's already founded three companies. Find out what's led to his success and how Shipley prepared him to get there.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight: Adam Spector '86
How do you get 30 intelligent and independent-minded people to form a consensus? If you're Adam Spector '86, you use skills learned at Shipley to help you do it.Read More -
Meg Biddle '68: Drawing Inspiration from Everyday Life
Meg Biddle '68 was one of Shipley's very first art majors. Now, she divides her time between crafting new projects and mentoring aspiring artists.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight: Robb Armstrong '81
Robb Armstrong ’81, author of the nationally-syndicated Jump Start comic strip, credits his success to Shipley. The lessons he learned at Shipley, both personal and professional, have guided him throughout his life.Read More -
Robb Armstrong ’81: A Jump on Life
For more than two decades, Robbin “Robb” Armstrong ’81 has enjoyed extraordinary success as a working artist, entertaining and engrossing readers with his nationally syndicated comic strip, Jump Start. Although he graduated from Shipley more than 30 years ago, Armstrong attributes his success directly to his experience in Bryn Mawr. “I wouldn’t be a syndicated cartoonist today if it weren’t for Shipley. No doubt,” he says.Read More -
Fredricka Brecht '68: Helping Leaders Lead
“People are really at their best when they are in service to others…I’m sure I learned this at Shipley,” says Fredricka Brecht, who coaches CEOs to become better leaders. Brecht’s journey from Shipley’s Kindergarten to the highest echelons of the business world was informed by the simple idea that she could do anything as long as she worked hard.Read More -
Alumni Spotlight on Madeline (Emmy) Miller ’96: Rewriting Homer's Iliad
It has to be said: it was a bold move to rewrite Homer’s Iliad—one of literature’s most famous ancient works—as a modern novel. But it has paid off for Shipley alumna and former teacher, Madeline (Emmy) Miller ’96.Read More
Faculty
List of 10 news stories.
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Anne Smith: Following the Siren’s Song with Learning Adventures in Italy
Middle School Latin teacher Anne Smith has inspired Shipley students with her passion for the Classics for 25 years. But perhaps more impactful than anything she’s done within her classroom are the 20+ trips to Italy on which she has led hundreds of Shipley students and parents over the years. Learn more about Anne and her Classical Adventures.Read More -
Teacher Ben Tinsley: Compassion in Action
French teacher Ben Tinsley appreciates Shipley’s focus on inspiring and equipping students to be compassionate participants in the world, as well as the creative and intellectual freedom teachers are given to develop curriculum, like his Upper School interdisciplinary course “Francophone Cultures through Literature and Film,” which focuses exclusively on Africa and the Caribbean. Outside of Shipley, Ben devotes lots of time to his family, his love of music, and his strong desire to make a positive impact in the world by identifying deserving individuals and providing resources to them through small fundraisers. Learn more about Ben and the many ways he is making a difference at Shipley and in the world.Read More -
Dan DelDuca: The Idea of Wonder in Lower School Science
When children step into Mr. Del Duca’s world, it’s all about participation. “I’m totally into the experience of science. I’m totally into the process. I want the kids to be scientists.”Read More -
Josh Berberian: Teaching Students, Not Content
His early teaching career was shaped by educational innovators. He’s been innovating in his classroom ever since. Learn more about this Upper School math teacher.Read More -
Kristin Jaffe: Not What You Think
Upper School English teacher Kristin Jaffe is known for her rigorous classes, where students engage in intense analysis of complex literature. What most people probably don’t know is that this Bryn Mawr College graduate didn’t start out well academically.Read More -
Paul Tierney: The Splendor, the Wonder & the Passing of the Lore
Paul Tierney retired from General Electric after 34 years of service, ready for something new. Teaching, he thought, seemed like a nice way to move toward a life of travel and retirement. Little did he know, he'd work harder than he ever had.Read More -
Why I Teach: Heather Riley
Growing up in a Latino neighborhood exposed Heather to the Spanish language early in life. She later went on to study the language formally at the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.Read More -
Why I Teach: Steve Baris, Chair of Shipley's Art Department
Steve Baris, Chair of Shipley’s Art Department, had an extraordinary and unconventional upbringing. The experiences cultivated in him a spirit of independence and adventure that sent him fighting fires in the West, hitchhiking throughout Africa, and studying art in Rome before dropping him at the door of 814 Yarrow Street.Read More -
Why I Teach: Dr. Emily Pickering Lights Sparks in History
Dr. Pickering, Mrs. Pickering to her students—says she teaches because she has always loved being a student. It allows her to read and to learn.Read More -
Spotlight on Jay Jennings '91: Middle School Math Teacher and Coach
Jay Jennings ’91 redefines what it means to be a “lifer” at Shipley. As a Middle School math teacher and coach for the last 21 years, he tries to connect on a personal level with the students he teaches and coaches as a way of inspiring them to learn and strive for excellence.Read More
Students
List of 58 news stories.
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Gyasi Miller ’24: A Perfect Blend of Love and Basketball
Two years ago, when Gyasi Miller ’24 was in fifth grade, it was no surprise his love of basketball inspired his Think, Care, Act project to clean up a park near his home. He presented a proposal to a local councilman, secured funding, and recently cut the ribbon to officially open the renovated park in October. Read more about Shipley Changemaker Gyasi Miller ’24.Read More -
Meet Jack Doughery '17
Read MoreShipley prepared Jack to understand that stepping out of your comfort zone is how you thrive, and to be compassionate and modest when accomplishing your goals. -
Meet Grace Martin '17
With hopes of working in business or politics in the Middle East, Grace says Shipley prepared her to observe the world with empathy and to seek and explore the nuances in the world, rather than accepting a simple answer.Read More -
Meet Sam Lazarus '17
At Shipley, Sam was able to transfer his passion for bass into the math classroom, exploring all the possible permutations and combinations of notes that can go into a bass line.Read More -
Meet Rayna Mason '17
Rayna Mason '17 plans to pursue a career in digital media and communications. She credits Shipley for teaching her effective and efficient communications skills and allowing her to embrace her uniqueness.Read More -
Meet Cesar Silva '17
Cesar Silva '17 says Shipley prepared him for self-advocacy and to step up and be a leader in his community. "I learned that as a leader in any setting, an official title does not determine the impact one makes in their community, but rather the actions of a person determine the impact one makes on their community."Read More -
Class of 2017 Senior Profile: Katie Balun
Katie Balun ’17 discovered her passion for filmmaking in Shipley’s Middle School, thanks to the influence of a couple of her teachers. Now, she’s ready to attend New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. Learn more about Katie and the role Shipley has played in her life.Read More -
Meet Vincent Fumo ’16
Vincent Fumo ’16 says that the most important part of his growth as a person at Shipley was rooted in the diversity of activities and clubs that were available to him. “These experiences have helped me learn who I am and what I love to do,” he says. In addition to a rich array of extracurricular options, Vincent appreciates the academic depth and breadth of his Shipley experience, and that he was able to tailor it to his specific interests. Learn more about Vincent and how Shipley prepared him for the future.Read More -
Meet Mallory Avnet ’16
Mallory Avnet ’16 was shy and insecure when she first entered Shipley in eighth grade, but her experience in the Middle School musical changed all of that. “I reached higher, dared bigger, and smiled wider with each and every practice. Not only did I make friends for a lifetime, but I also finally became the girl I so longed to be,” she says. Learn more about Mallory, how she gained confidence, and how Shipley has prepared her for a very bright future.Read More -
Meet Leo Duke ’16
Leo Duke ’16 credits Shipley with making him the person he is today. Leo’s teachers engaged his critical thinking skills, pushed him to do his very best work, and made him feel like they were partners in his education. He simultaneously felt like he was part of a supportive community while maintaining his individuality and was pushed to “run to the roar” of life. Learn more about Leo and how Shipley has prepared him for life.Read More -
Meet Lauren Grajewski ’16
Lauren Grajewski ’16 transferred to Shipley in her sophomore year of high school. She chose Shipley because of its strong theatre program and theatre faculty, who were invested in her success. Next year, she will attend NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts for a BFA in Acting in the Stella Adler Studio. Learn more about Lauren Grajewski and how Shipley prepared her for the future.Read More -
Meet Elise Dadourian ’16
Elise Dadourian ’16 had always been cast as the “innocent ingénue” in Shipley’s musical productions, until she was given the role of the provocative, Mae-West-inspired character in Godspell. “I was unquestionably out of my comfort zone. In order to master the character, I had to work hard,” she admits. Her extensive research, practice, dedication to the process, and self-discipline allowed her to successfully depict the character. “I learned to push myself beyond my insecurities, which is a lesson that I will apply to my non-theatrical pursuits in the future.” Read more about Elise and how Shipley has prepared her for the future.Read More -
Meet Sophia Korfmann ’16
Sophia Korfmann ’16 was pleasantly surprised by her fellow students’ motivation and excitement to learn when she first arrived at Shipley as a seventh grader. She found that the relationships she formed with her teachers and peers amplified her own learning. Sophia was particularly engaged by her interdisciplinary courses, which forced her to examine questions from multiple perspectives and gave her a greater understanding of different subjects. Learn more about Sophia and how Shipley helped prepare her for the future.Read More -
Meet Nicholas Ragaglia ’16
Nicholas Ragaglia ’16 feels well prepared for college and life, thanks to Shipley’s focus on academic freedom and support for individuality. “Growing up in the Shipley community, I have always been given room to do what I need to do to succeed. It is this philosophy that I think best prepared me for college,” he says. Learn more about Nicholas and how Shipley prepared him for the future.Read More -
Meet McKinley Lovett ’16
McKinley Lovett ’16 recognizes the fact that while Shipley has prepared her well for academic and professional success in the future, she has more importantly learned how to be a good person in her 11 years as a student here. “I have learned the importance of kindness, friendship, integrity, and giving back to the community,” says the future Harvard graduate. Learn more about McKinley and how Shipley has prepared her for the future.Read More -
Meet Maya Overton ’16
When Maya Overton ’16 came to Shipley as a freshman from her local public school, she never dreamed that she’d one day be Shipley’s All School President. As a STEM-oriented student, she never dreamed that she’d find interests in the humanities. In Shipley’s intimate community, she was challenged to venture outside of her comfort zone, where she felt supported by her teachers and peers and excelled. Read more about Maya and how Shipley has prepared her for the future.Read More -
Meet Ally Schoenberg ’16
Ally Schoenberg ’16 is grateful for the encouragement she received from teachers, advisors, and her peers at Shipley. She also appreciates Shipley’s emphasis on risk-taking, which has allowed her to achieve success in unexpected areas. Learn more about Ally and how Shipley has prepared her for the future.Read More -
Meet Addison Leavy ’16
Addison Leavy ’16 appreciates the fact that Shipley allowed her to have a balanced high school experience – giving her the opportunity to explore her academic and extracurricular interests freely. As the editor of the school newspaper, The Beacon, Addison learned how to be a leader, found her voice, and learned how to help others use their voices to inspire community dialog about important issues. Learn more about Addison and how Shipley helped prepare her for the future.Read More -
Meet Mabel Silva ’16
Mabel Silva ’16 discovered her passion for neuroscience and psychology in her senior honors course Comparative Anatomy and Neuroscience. She appreciates the encouragement and support she received at Shipley to challenge herself academically, as well as the opportunity to discover the importance of her voice. Learn more about Mabel and how Shipley helped prepare her for the future.Read More -
Meet Benjamin Kimmel ’16
Benjamin Kimmel ’16 was heavily involved in the performing arts during his 14 years as a Shipley student. He learned how to play several instruments, performed in vocal ensembles, and participated in the Upper School theatre program. In the classroom, Benjamin discovered his passion for the sciences, which he will continue to study as a student at Princeton. Learn more about Benjamin and how Shipley helped prepare him for the future.Read More -
Meet Shannon Smith ’16
Shannon Smith ’16 found her passion in Shipley’s studio art classes, where her teachers and peers nurtured her talents, inspired her to learn about new mediums and techniques, and encouraged her to explore her creativity. In her role as Stage Manager for each of Shipley’s three theatre productions, Shannon took the greatest risks to learn important life lessons. Learn more about Shannon and how Shipley helped prepare her for the future.Read More -
Meet Owain Thorogood ’16
Owain Thorogood ’16 attributes his preparation for college and the real world to the well-rounded experience he had at Shipley, where he explored and excelled in athletics, music, and academics. After only two years at Shipley, he says that he experienced tremendous growth as an individual. Learn more about Owain and how Shipley helped prepare him for the future.Read More -
Meet Nick Wojtelwicz ’16
Nick Wojtelwicz ’16 says that the most important lesson he learned while at Shipley was that success comes with failure. Nick worked hard as an honors student and varsity baseball player, acknowledging that his hard work has paid off and would not have been possible without the encouragement of his teachers. Learn more about Nick and how Shipley prepared him for the future.Read More -
Meet Jake Trachtenberg ’16
As a Lifer who has attended Shipley since PreK, Jake Trachtenberg ’16 is grateful for the strong academic foundation that he received in Lower School. In addition to the academic preparation he received here, “Shipley has prepared me for college and life by nurturing my passions while also pushing me to do more inside and outside of the classroom.” Learn more about Jake and how Shipley has prepared him for the future.Read More -
Meet Evan Spector ’16
Evan Spector ’16 appreciates Shipley’s supportive environment, in which he felt encouraged to take risks and venture outside of his comfort zone. He appreciates the strong relationships he formed with his teachers, who pushed him to get involved with and become a leader in student groups. Learn more about Evan and how Shipley helped prepare him for the future.Read More -
Meet Eric Yang ’16
Read MoreEric Yang ’16 says that Shipley was a life-changing experience for him as a Chinese student studying abroad. In addition to expanding his academic horizons, Eric learned how to effectively collaborate with others, lead a group, and organize a large scale event, he discovered new passions, and was given opportunities to explore his potential. Learn more about Eric and how Shipley helped prepare him for the future. -
Meet Emily Talluto ’16
Three-sport athlete Emily Talluto ’16 never played lacrosse before coming to Shipley in ninth grade. Next year, she’ll play for Division I LaSalle, an achievement she credits to all of her Shipley coaches. Through sports, says Emily, “I learned how to hold my own, be strong, and be a leader.” Learn more about Emily and how Shipley help prepare her for the future.Read More -
Meet Avery Yecies ’16
Avery Yecies ’16 is a Shipley Lifer who appreciates aspects about each stage of her 14-year Shipley career. In Lower School, she fell in love with learning and learned that she thrived in group settings. In Middle School, she discovered her passion for field hockey. In Upper School, Avery learned the importance of community. Read more about Avery, what else she learned at Shipley, and how Shipley prepared her for the future.Read More -
Meet David Bakali ’15
For athlete, musician, and intellectual David Bakali ’15, Shipley provided many opportunities to work hard while pursuing his varied interests. An open and accepting student body, as well as teachers who challenged him and cared about his success, contributed to his positive Shipley experience, which he says prepared him well for the academic rigor of college.Read More -
Meet Anisa Iqbal ’15
What stands out the most to Anisa Iqbal ’15 about her Shipley experience is the array of choices she had in pursuing activities and interests outside of academics. As a member of the Sprouts horticultural club, Shipley Singers, Glee Club, Yearbook, and Publications Photography staff, she certainly took advantage of the opportunities to participate in what interested her.Read More -
Meet Bailey Pollack ’15
Bailey Pollack ’15 enjoyed the academic challenges that his teachers presented in the classroom. They inspired him to seek learning opportunities outside of the classroom—something that was new to him after joining Shipley. This love of learning, he says, “was essential in making me enjoy coming to school every day.”Read More -
Meet Ben Ynocencio ’15
Ben Ynocencio ’15 is excited for his future, which he hopes to dedicate to his passion for food, the environment, and education by running a self-sufficient farm, restaurant, and education center. “Shipley has instilled in me a drive to achieve my goals and an open mind to adapt and evolve as necessary,” he says of the school which also helped transform him from a shy seventh grader into an outgoing and confident senior.Read More -
Meet Brandon Peltz ’15
Brandon Peltz ’15 was one of the new kids in eighth grade, but he felt accepted immediately by his peers. He made his mark as Shipley’s in-house on-campus DJ, and enjoyed his success in Shipley’s growing STEAM curriculum offerings. And even though he did not play soccer outside of school, he says that coach Thom Schauerman “gave me unexpected chances to prove myself on the soccer field and I did.”Read More -
Meet Cami Bolling ’15
Cami Bolling ’15 is a “Lifer,” or a student who has attended Shipley since first grade or earlier. She recognizes the profound impact that Shipley has had on her life and says, “I will remember the lessons that Shipley has instilled in me and they will be the key to my success.”Read More -
Meet Campbell Taylor ’15
Campbell Taylor ’15 had never excelled athletically until he tried rowing in ninth grade, when he says his musical and theatrical careers also took off at Shipley. Rowing not only provided Campbell with an athletic outlet, but provided him with the tools to excel academically.Read More -
Meet David Wolfson ’15
David Wolfson ’15 recognizes the fact that not all schools have an environment where students feel comfortable participating in Mathletes in the morning and playing varsity basketball in the afternoon, like he did at Shipley. “There is a common feeling between students that allows us to take risks, try new things, and feel comfortable leaving our comfort zones,” David says about Shipley’s warm environment.Read More -
Meet Deondre Jordan ’15
Deondre Jordan ’15 leapt into the hearts of his fellow classmates well before he did a backflip in front of the whole school during his first speech as All School President, a title he earned after only one year at Shipley. This future neuroscientist says Shipley cemented his love of learning, which he feels will guide him to success throughout his life.Read More -
Meet Eddie McCann ’15
Eddie McCann ’15 thrived in Shipley’s atmosphere of learning, exploration, and risk-taking. He was able to pursue and discover his many interests while succeeding academically. “Shipley has prepared me well for my life beyond high school, because I learned how to both succeed and recover from failure in a variety of settings, whether on the stage, court, or in the classroom.”Read More -
Meet Elijah Peake ’15
Elijah Peake ’15 is grateful for Shipley’s focus on the individual, which made it possible for him to pursue his ski racing career by learning remotely for five months each school year. Learning alongside students from other schools, he said, showed him how rigorous Shipley’s curriculum is, without being overwhelming. When he returned to Shipley each year, he says, “I was always surrounded by teachers and peers who shared a passion for learning.”Read More -
Meet Elizabeth Menkowitz ’15
Elizabeth Menkowitz ’15 recognizes the impact that Shipley teachers have had on her life and is thankful to her parents for enrolling her at the School in Pre-Kindergarten. “I have had so many opportunities through Shipley,” she says.Read More -
Meet Emma Scornavacchi ’15
“If Shipley is anything like a microcosm for the rest of my life,” says Emma Scornavacchi ’15, “I’m thrilled to look forward to what’s to come.” This aspiring writer appreciates the many opportunities for getting involved and taking intellectual risks provided to her by Shipley, where she felt challenged and supported by her teachers.Read More -
Meet Ethan Bradlow ’15
Ethan Bradlow '15 is grateful for the growing opportunities for STEAM learning in Shipley’s Upper School, which enabled him to apply some of his Java coding skills during a summer internship. Outside of the classroom, his athletic pursuits while at Shipley led to some of his strongest relationships and most memorable experiences.Read More -
Meet Florence Murabito ’15
Even though Florence Murabito ’15 had never participated in Student Government, her classmates encouraged her to run for Senior Class President at the end of junior year. She was surprised by the request, but ran anyway (and won). “Shipley encourages us to stretch ourselves to explore new interests and passions,” says Florence, “no matter how late in our Shipley career they appear.”Read More -
Meet Hunter Vander Zwaag ’15
Hunter Vander Zwaag ’15 knows that Shipley has prepared him well for life. “I have grown to love learning, to speak my mind, and to always be curious,” he says of what he learned here. In addition falling in love with Latin and the Classics, Hunter appreciates the fact that he was able to discover his affinity for the theater late in his Shipley career.Read More -
Meet Jordan Gottlieb ’15
Jordan Gottlieb ’15 admits that she was a bit “rough around the edges” when she entered Linda Van Horn’s fourth grade class, where she first learned the value of hard work. “This initial push has inspired a lifetime of always putting my best effort forward,” she says. And no matter what she chooses to study or to do with her life, she feels like Shipley has prepared her well to succeed in all arenas.Read More -
Meet Kaela Gundy ’15
Read More“Throughout my time at Shipley,” says Kaela Gundy ’15, “I have realized that hard work is the key to true success.” This is just one of many important life lessons that Kaela has learned in her 14 years as a Shipley student. -
Meet Katie Steiner ’15
Katie Steiner ’15 may not know exactly what she wants to do when she grows up, however “whatever the future holds,” she says, “Shipley has prepared me for it.” One of the many things that Katie has enjoyed about her Shipley experience is the School’s focus on a balanced education and providing opportunities for students to pursue all of their interests.Read More -
Meet Madison Tucker ’15
Madison Tucker ’15 affirms that Shipley has shaped her future ambitions and given her the tools to succeed in college and beyond. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the love and support of Shipley’s community,” she says.Read More -
Meet Martine Fortune ’15
Martine Fortune ’15 knew she wanted to enroll at Shipley when she was invited to attend the annual Community Supper and Basketball Games. “I knew after that night that I wanted to be a part of such a warm and lively community,” she says.Read More -
Meet Nia Holland ’15
Nia Holland ’15 never expected to play Division I basketball after high school or that she’d grow so much academically as a Shipley student. To what does she does she attribute her academic success? The time management skills she learned here.Read More -
Meet Pinky Rowe ’15
Pinky Rowe ’15 never considered herself a “math student,” but was encouraged by her college counselor to take an honors calculus class during her senior year. Though she doubted her ability at first, she succeeded with the support of her teacher. “Risk taking at Shipley is always encouraged,” she says, “because every teacher is dedicated to supporting you and watching you grow.”Read More -
Meet Rachel Shapiro ’15
As a Shipley Lifer (a student here since at least first grade) Rachel Shapiro ’15 thinks of the Shipley community as her extended family. She says, “Shipley’s environment allows students to have a lot of opportunity to take on significant roles they might not find in many other schools – and the environment is safe – so it's okay to take risks, regardless of the outcome.”Read More -
Meet Sophie Pilkington ’15
Sophie Pilkington ’15 played lacrosse until her sophomore year, when she decided that she wanted to try crew. “The team was extremely welcoming and helped me transition into a completely different sport with ease,” she says. By joining the time-intensive crew program, Sophie not only learned how to row, but also how to manage her time more efficiently. Shipley’s art program also had a profound impact on Sophie’s life and the direction of her future.Read More -
Meet Spencer Strauss ’15
Spencer Strauss ’15 attended Shipley for 13 years and claims, “I can honestly say I liked going to school everyday.” From exceptional teachers who knew her as an individual and encouraged her to just be herself, to the early and frequent opportunities to take risks and develop confidence, Spencer is grateful for her many memorable Shipley experiences.Read More -
Meet Sydney Majors ’15
As a freshman, Sydney Majors ’15 had a difficult time balancing her academic obligations with her serious commitment to a competitive volleyball league, while still playing volleyball for Shipley. Thankfully, her understanding teachers made it possible for her to thrive in the classroom while pursuing her passion for volleyball—both inside and outside of Shipley. She was recruited to play for the University of Chicago’s varsity volleyball team and says, “I could not be more excited!”Read More -
Meet Tayanna Bowman ’15
Tayanna Bowman ’15 credits Shipley with sparking unexpected interests in her. “That’s normal at Shipley,” she says. Her future ambition is to be a psychiatrist and do research on Alzheimer’s.Read More -
Meet William McKenna ’15
William McKenna ’15 appreciates the fact that Shipley creates an atmosphere where students from all walks of life can not only learn and work together, but also appreciate and celebrate one another’s diverse ways of thinking and being. He also appreciates the many skills he learned in his seven years here, “from writing a paper or finding the derivative of a function, to creating realistic goals for myself and learning how to push my intellectual and personal boundaries.”Read More -
Meet Zoë Helmers ’15
Zoë Helmers ’15 credits Shipley with developing her confidence as a student, athlete, and young woman. Her Shipley experience also sparked her passion for sustainability and the environment, a passion she plans on exploring as a student at Wake Forest University. Most importantly, “Shipley taught me that you don’t need to become the President or cure cancer to make a difference. Being a good human being is, in the end, the most important thing.”Read More
Families
List of 8 news stories.
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The Vale Family Shipley Story: Prepared to Succeed
Elizabeth Vale ’72, Managing Director at Morgan Stanley and significant member of the Obama White House, credits Shipley with teaching her everything she needed to know. She valued her Shipley education so much, she sent her daughter Ann ’03 to Shipley, where she, too, received an education that prepared her for a successful future.Read More -
16 Years and Counting: The Gundy Family's Shipley Story
Dee and Roy Gundy joined the Shipley community 16 years ago, when their daughter, Kaela ’15, was in kindergarten. A word-of-mouth recommendation put Shipley on their radar, but it was a commitment to each individual child that made them choose the School. Dee and Roy feel blessed that they are all thriving, despite their different interests, strengths, and traits. And even with their busy schedules, the Gundys find ways to give back to the community that has given them so much.Read More -
The Nkala Family Shipley Story: More than Just a Color
Shipley Coach and PE teacher Bruce Nkala and his wife were initially drawn to Shipley because of the baby clue color worn by the School’s sports teams – the color of their home country Botswana’s flag. But the Shipley community, small class sizes, and individual approach to each student have solidified their affinity for the School. Read the Nkala family’s Shipley story.Read More -
The Ilyas Family Shipley Story: An Effortless Sense of Belonging
The Ilyases were looking for something more than just an excellent academic education when they explored independent schools for their children. They wanted a school where their kids were going to be free to define themselves and feel a strong sense of community. Learn more about the Ilyases and how Shipley’s environment supports each child’s sense of identity.Read More -
Private School Meets Public School: The Willner Family's Shipley Story
Ben Willner ’96 never expected to send his children to the school that challenged him so much as a kid. His wife, Erica, a public school advocate, couldn’t have imagined sending her kids to a private school. Now, he can’t think of a better gift to give his daughters than the rigor and support of Shipley’s education, and she’s convincing her friends to send their children to Shipley. Read the Willner family’s Shipley story.Read More -
The Big Move: The Bender Family’s Shipley Story
When the Bender family faced the prospect of a second cross-continental move in as many years, they knew it would be important to find a school that shared their values and provided a rigorous academic program balanced with support for students. The Benders found that school in Shipley and have enjoyed a seamless transition into the community. Read more about the Bender’s Shipley story.Read More -
Choosing a School with Vision: The Benardete Family Story
Niki and Ethan Benardete chose Shipley for their children because of the School’s emphasis on character education. For Niki, an educator and administrator herself, the vision of the Shipley community was quite clear, going above excellent academics to instill confidence and educate children about being the best people possible.Read More -
Not the Obvious Choice: The Palmer Family Shipley Story
When Laura and Dave ’89 Palmer began the process of picking a school for their children, Shipley wasn’t their obvious choice. But, “the more we researched,” says Dave, “the more we realized that the Shipley of today is even better than the Shipley I went to.”Read More
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.
