The Norwich Free Academy Foundation, Inc.321 BroadwayNorwich, CT 06360

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Trad

ition&

Inno

vatio

n NON-PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDNORWICH, CT 06360

PERMIT NO. 85

holde

rs of

the pr

iceles

s pea

rlthe

AED

ILE

Volume X11, No. 1

Winter 2010

Published by

The Norwich Free Academy

Foundation, Inc.

Miss Smith was the daughter ofLeonard O. Smith, a prominentNorwich industrialist. Born intoluxury in 1909, Miss Smith was anextremely talented and intelligentyoung woman who attended SmithCollege and went on to medicalschool at Cornell University, whereshe studied to be a psychiatrist. Whileat Cornell, she began to exhibit signs of schizophrenia, a disease thatwreaked havoc upon her life.Numerous surgical treatmentsresulted in her eventual loss ofcognitive skills, and Eva requiredcaretakers until her death.

In the late 1970s, a trust wasestablished for Miss Smith, and a portion of her substantial assets was used to support many local non-profit organizations, including TheNorwich Free Academy.

Although Miss Smith did not attendNFA and has no known ties to theschool, her generous gift to theAcademy provided $1 million to the Sesquicentennial Campaign insupport of the school’s unrestrictedendowment and $1.3 million forscholarships. A gifted pianist, Miss

Smith’s generosity to the Sesqui-centennial Campaign is recognized inthe Music and Art Wing of the FrankCenter with a plaque proclaiming herlove of music.

The Eva Virginia Smith Scholarshipmakes it possible for socially andeconomically disadvantaged studentsattend college. Leo Butler, NFA’sDirector of Diversity, has worked

closely with many of the EvaVirginia Smith Scholarship re-cipients. “I can attest to the factthat these young people havehad an opportunity to fulfilltheir dream of attending thecollege of their choice,” Leo says.

“This scholarship affirms the notionthat all students, regardless of theirbackground, have the right to live out the American dream. The EvaVirginia Smith Scholarship has al-lowed numerous bright and capablestudents from diverse backgrounds tofurther their education.”

Although Miss Smith passed away in2001, her legacy lives on to positivelyimpact NFA students – now and in the future.

D O N O r I m p A c T

Donors are key partners who share NFA’s belief in the power

of education. The following page describes just one of the many

private gifts that have benefited The Norwich Free Academy.

EvaVirginia Smith

Foundation BoardPresident Passes Gavel

After twelve years as the guiding force ofthe Norwich Free Academy FoundationBoard, Attorney Theodore Phillips haspassed the gavel to fellow alumnusAttorney Glenn Carberry ’72. Phillips,who will remain as a member of theFoundation Board until November 2011,served as President since 1997 and leaves behind a legacy of unparalleledservice to the Academy and the NFAFoundation during times of tremendousgrowth, including the highly successfulSesquicentennial Campaign that resultedin the construction of the Sidney E. FrankCenter of Visual and Performing Arts.

Attorney Phillips is actively involved withcountless civic and charitable organizationsand, as NFA Foundation Board President,has served with enthusiasm, energy anddevotion. “Ted’s dedication to NFA goesabove and beyond and his energy isunsurpassed. I often asked, ‘When do yousleep?!?,’” says Deborah Lee, the NFAFoundation’s Director of Development. “It is a privilege to work with such adedicated volunteer and I thank him forhis leadership, dedication and support.”

Throughout his tenure as President, Tedremained committed to supporting NFAand its independent status, noting early inpresidency, “It is the private contributionsthat allow the Norwich Free Academy tobe set apart from purely publicly financedschools.” He was instrumental in helpingto formulate a comprehensive Develop-ment Department, which has since grownand maintained strong Annual Fund,Scholarship and Planned Giving programs.Ted also served as a key part of the solici-tation team that worked to secure a trans-formative gift from Sidney Frank ’38 – thelargest donation in Academy history.

Thank you, Ted, for your exceptionaldedication and distinguished years ofservice and leadership!

What does Aedile mean?

This year, The Norwich Free Academy is pleased to welcometwo new Class Agents – alumni who work to help theirclasses increase philanthropic participation in the NFAFoundation’s yearly fundraising efforts:

Judy Payne Paro ’79

Jackie Mendez ’99

They join a group of motivated and generous individuals whosupport NFA in so many ways. Welcome aboard!

Nearly 70 individuals, representing 45 class years, currently serveas Class Agents. If you would like further information on NFA’sClass Agent Program or are interested in becoming a Class Agent,please contact Ellen Bremner, Director of Annual Fund at860.425.5545 or at bremnere@norwichfreeacademy.com.

Welcome New Class AgentsAedile (pronounced e-dial) is aLatin word given to Roman leaderswho reinvested their own funds tocarry out projects for the publicgood, pro bono publico. Aedilesbuilt and maintained roads, aque-ducts and public buildings. Theyalso funded public celebrations,plays, and festivals. Nina Barclay’sLatin II class suggested the namefor the newsletter in 1999.

Julius Caesar (100-44 B.C.),one of Rome’s mostprominent aediles.

A N N U A L

G I V I N G

On the Cover: (counter clockwise from the top)View of entrance hall with stairway leading to the Converse Art Galleryfrom the 1944 Mirror; Students on snowy afternoon in 1974; Recentlyretired NFA Foundation Board President Theodore N. Phillips II, Esq. '74gives a speech; Two students traverse NFA's snow covered campus in the"war winter" of 1943; The NFA Wildcat tips his hat to a crowd.

D E A r A L U m N I

& F r I E N D S

NFA never closes! Forty years ago, when I arrived at the Academy as

a freshman, that was the policy of the school. NFA opened its doors

every day for 3,200 students from 14 towns, regardless of whether

a blizzard was expected or the Yantic River had flooded its banks.

As I look outside at the fourth snowstormof the winter of 2009-2010, I can still re-member piling into a Chevy Impala withother students from our Norwichtownneighborhood and pushing it through thesnow to NFA.

Today, the realities of modern life and thetechnological improvements of the 21stcentury mean that NFA occasionallycancels school or opens late due to in-clement weather. Even when classes arecancelled, however, the vision of NFA asa special institution that never closes itsdoors to the needs of students, faculty,parents, alumni and friends is at the coreof our mission to the community.

This message is especially important to remember during these uncertaineconomic times. The NFA Foundationhas been fortunate to complete severalsuccessful campaigns over the past 15years, and to build an Annual Fund withmore than 2,000 donors. This generoussupport from alumni and friends here inEastern Connecticut and throughout thenation and the world has made it possiblefor the Academy to expand and mod-ernize its facilities, and continue the

scholarship programs and curricula thatallow our students to pursue their dreams.

Both the public budgets and privatebenefactors who fund our school are underfinancial pressure today. Many people areuncertain how the inclement economy willaffect their own resources and quality oflife. We all wonder how to allocate thefunds and time we have available to themany needs within our communities.These are not easy decisions.

As the new President of the NFAFoundation’s Board of Directors, I havebeen asked to continue the good workdone by many leaders and volunteers onthe Academy’s Boards. In the comingyears, NFA must make improvements tothe Slater Museum, our athletic facilitiesand our technology resources in order tofulfill our mission. I am confident that wewill succeed with your steady andgenerous support. That is because NFAnever closes.

Sincerely,

Attorney Glenn T. Carberry ’72President, Board of DirectorsThe NFA Foundation, Inc.

Foundation News

Donor Impact

Board President Passes Gavel

INSIDE

ThIS ISSUE

Winter 2010Vol. XI1, No. 1

The Aedile is published up to four times annually for donors and volunteers.

The Norwich Free Academy Foundation, Inc.321 BroadwayNorwich, CT 06360Tel: 860.887.2507Fax: 860.889.4363E-mail:foundation@norwichfreeacademy.comWebsite: www.nfafoundation.org

Editor: Ellen Bremner

Contributing Writers:Ellen BremnerKristen FossumAtty. Glenn T. Carberry ’72

Photography:Alumni/Development StaffContributed

Design:Lavender Design

Printing:AM Lithography Corporation

NFA Foundation, Inc.2009-2010 Board of DirectorsAtty. Glenn T. Carberry ’72, PresidentJeremy D. Booty ’74, Vice PresidentLee-Ann Gomes ’82, SecretaryCarol Cieslukowski ’58, TreasurerDr. Matthew D. Amaro ’91Jeffrey I. Blinderman ’82Steven L. Bokoff ’72Thomas W. Hammond ’75 Lesley Mitchell Jones ’66 Theodore N. Phillips II, Esq. ’74Gail J. Piotrkowski

The Norwich Free Academy does not discriminatein its educational programs, services or employmenton the basis of race, religion, gender, national origin,color, handicapping condition, age, marital status or sexual orientation. This is in accordance withTitle VI, Title VII, Title IX and other civil rights or discrimination issues; Section 504 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended and theAmericans with Disabilities Act of 1991.

Dr. Matthew D.Amaro, D.M.DClass of 1991

NFA Corporator: Elected as a Norwich Free AcademyCorporator in November 2005

NFA Foundation, Inc.: Elected to the Foundation’s Board ofDirectors in November 2009

Education: Norwich Free AcademyProvidence CollegeTemple University School of Dental Medicine

Business: Norwich Family Dental Associates

F O U N D A T I O N N E W S

A N N U A L G I V I N G

Help Us Reach our GoalAs 2010 begins, we hope that you will make one of your New Year’s resolutions to support The Norwich Free Academy’s AnnualFund. Annual Fund dollars support the journey of our students as they aspire to define their individual talents and strengths.

This year’s goal is $220,000.To those of you who have already supported the 2009/2010 Annual Fund – THANK YOU! If youhave not yet responded to this year’s appeal – please make a gift today by completing the form on the following page, make asecure donation online at www.nfafoundation.org, or speak with one of our friendly student or alumni callers during our AnnualPhonathon, which begins on March 8.

Jeffrey I. BlindermanClass of 1982

NFA Corporator: Elected as a Norwich Free AcademyCorporator in November 2002

NFA Alumni Association Board ofDirectors: Elected in February 2009

NFA Foundation, Inc.: Elected to the Foundation’s Board ofDirectors in November 2009

Education: Norwich Free AcademyFranklin & Marshall CollegeNortheastern University

Business: AM Lithography Corporation

Community Affiliations: Norwich Little LeagueP.A.L.Norwich Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament Committee

Gail J. Piotrkowski

Norwich Free Academy Parent: Nicole-2001; Susan-2006; Stephen-2011

NFA Corporator: Elected as a Norwich Free AcademyCorporator in November 2008

NFA Foundation, Inc.: Elected to the Foundation’s Board ofDirectors in November 2009

Education: Lyman Memorial High SchoolCatherine Gibbs Business School

Business: Petrowsky Auctioneers, Inc.

Community Affiliations:Franklin Board of EducationHospice of Southeastern CTFriends of Kilambe

New Foundation Board Members

Name: NFA Class:

Spouse: NFA Class:

Address: E-Mail:

Phone: ( )

Birthdate:

Last First Maiden

Last First Maiden

I would like to make a tax-deductible gift of:

____ $25 _____ $50 _____ $100 _____ $250 _____ $500 $ ________ Other

to (please check one):

qThe Norwich Free Academy Annual Fund.

qThe Class of 2000 10th Reunion Gift in support of NFA’s Reid Fund.

qThe Class of 1985 25th Reunion Gift in support of NFA’s Reid Fund.

qThe Class of 1960 50th Reunion Gift in support of NFA’s Slater Museum Universal Access Project.

Payment Method:

q Enclosed is my check payable to The Norwich Free Academy Foundation, Inc.

q Please charge my VISA/MasterCard/Discover: Card # _______________________________________ Exp. Date ____________

Signature __________________________________________________________ qThis is an anonymous gift.

To make a gift of stock, please call the Foundation Office at 860.887.2507 ext. 5540.

Remit completed form, with payment to:

THE NORWICH FREE ACADEMY FOUNDATION, INC.321 Broadway • Norwich, Connecticut 06360 • 860.887.2507 • www.nfafoundation.org

Gifts from married alumni will be split unless otherwise indicated. • Thank you for your generosity!

YES! I want to support tradition and innovation!

2010 Reunion GiftsThis year, NFA’s 10th, 25th and 50th reunion classes have designated their annual gifts in support of special "class giftprojects" to commemorate their milestone reunions. To make a gift to your Reunion Class Project, please complete the form

below, and return it with your contribution to the address indicated, or give online at www.nfafoundation.org.

Class of 1960The Class of 1960 has chosen to desig-nate its 50th Reunion Gift Project insupport of the Slater Museum UniversalAccess Project, a planned renovationthat includes the installation of an eleva-tor and ramping system in the Museum.

The Class of 1960 is striving to raise$12,000 in support of this vitally impor-tant project. To commemorate the gift, a plaque acknowledging the class will be mounted in the 50th Reunion GiftGallery wall in NFA’s Latham Science &

Information Center; donors contributing$1,000 or more will be identified by nameon the plaque.

Class of 1985The Class of 1985 has designated its 25thReunion Gift Project in support of NFA'sReid Fund.The Reid Fund is a unique en-dowment whose purpose is to lend moneyto students in need. Students may applyto receive funds for a specific purposesuch as the purchase of a gym uniform,special book, pre-college test fees, etc.

The Class of 1985 is striving to reach agoal of $2,500, which will help provideaid to NFA students – so very importantin this time of economic uncertainty.

Class of 2000The Class of 2000 has also chosen todesignate its 10th Reunion Gift Projectin support of NFA's Reid Fund. Agenerous contribution from the classwill help provide aid to NFA studentsin need – now and in the future.

A N N U A L G I V I N G

The Norwich Free Academy Foundation, Inc.321 BroadwayNorwich, CT 06360

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Trad

ition&

Inno

vatio

n NON-PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDNORWICH, CT 06360

PERMIT NO. 85

holde

rs of

the pr

iceles

s pea

rlthe

AED

ILE

Volume X11, No. 1

Winter 2010

Published by

The Norwich Free Academy

Foundation, Inc.

Miss Smith was the daughter ofLeonard O. Smith, a prominentNorwich industrialist. Born intoluxury in 1909, Miss Smith was anextremely talented and intelligentyoung woman who attended SmithCollege and went on to medicalschool at Cornell University, whereshe studied to be a psychiatrist. Whileat Cornell, she began to exhibit signs of schizophrenia, a disease thatwreaked havoc upon her life.Numerous surgical treatmentsresulted in her eventual loss ofcognitive skills, and Eva requiredcaretakers until her death.

In the late 1970s, a trust wasestablished for Miss Smith, and a portion of her substantial assets was used to support many local non-profit organizations, including TheNorwich Free Academy.

Although Miss Smith did not attendNFA and has no known ties to theschool, her generous gift to theAcademy provided $1 million to the Sesquicentennial Campaign insupport of the school’s unrestrictedendowment and $1.3 million forscholarships. A gifted pianist, Miss

Smith’s generosity to the Sesqui-centennial Campaign is recognized inthe Music and Art Wing of the FrankCenter with a plaque proclaiming herlove of music.

The Eva Virginia Smith Scholarshipmakes it possible for socially andeconomically disadvantaged studentsattend college. Leo Butler, NFA’sDirector of Diversity, has worked

closely with many of the EvaVirginia Smith Scholarship re-cipients. “I can attest to the factthat these young people havehad an opportunity to fulfilltheir dream of attending thecollege of their choice,” Leo says.

“This scholarship affirms the notionthat all students, regardless of theirbackground, have the right to live out the American dream. The EvaVirginia Smith Scholarship has al-lowed numerous bright and capablestudents from diverse backgrounds tofurther their education.”

Although Miss Smith passed away in2001, her legacy lives on to positivelyimpact NFA students – now and in the future.

D O N O r I m p A c T

Donors are key partners who share NFA’s belief in the power

of education. The following page describes just one of the many

private gifts that have benefited The Norwich Free Academy.

EvaVirginia Smith

Foundation BoardPresident Passes Gavel

After twelve years as the guiding force ofthe Norwich Free Academy FoundationBoard, Attorney Theodore Phillips haspassed the gavel to fellow alumnusAttorney Glenn Carberry ’72. Phillips,who will remain as a member of theFoundation Board until November 2011,served as President since 1997 and leaves behind a legacy of unparalleledservice to the Academy and the NFAFoundation during times of tremendousgrowth, including the highly successfulSesquicentennial Campaign that resultedin the construction of the Sidney E. FrankCenter of Visual and Performing Arts.

Attorney Phillips is actively involved withcountless civic and charitable organizationsand, as NFA Foundation Board President,has served with enthusiasm, energy anddevotion. “Ted’s dedication to NFA goesabove and beyond and his energy isunsurpassed. I often asked, ‘When do yousleep?!?,’” says Deborah Lee, the NFAFoundation’s Director of Development. “It is a privilege to work with such adedicated volunteer and I thank him forhis leadership, dedication and support.”

Throughout his tenure as President, Tedremained committed to supporting NFAand its independent status, noting early inpresidency, “It is the private contributionsthat allow the Norwich Free Academy tobe set apart from purely publicly financedschools.” He was instrumental in helpingto formulate a comprehensive Develop-ment Department, which has since grownand maintained strong Annual Fund,Scholarship and Planned Giving programs.Ted also served as a key part of the solici-tation team that worked to secure a trans-formative gift from Sidney Frank ’38 – thelargest donation in Academy history.

Thank you, Ted, for your exceptionaldedication and distinguished years ofservice and leadership!

What does Aedile mean?

This year, The Norwich Free Academy is pleased to welcometwo new Class Agents – alumni who work to help theirclasses increase philanthropic participation in the NFAFoundation’s yearly fundraising efforts:

Judy Payne Paro ’79

Jackie Mendez ’99

They join a group of motivated and generous individuals whosupport NFA in so many ways. Welcome aboard!

Nearly 70 individuals, representing 45 class years, currently serveas Class Agents. If you would like further information on NFA’sClass Agent Program or are interested in becoming a Class Agent,please contact Ellen Bremner, Director of Annual Fund at860.425.5545 or at bremnere@norwichfreeacademy.com.

Welcome New Class AgentsAedile (pronounced e-dial) is aLatin word given to Roman leaderswho reinvested their own funds tocarry out projects for the publicgood, pro bono publico. Aedilesbuilt and maintained roads, aque-ducts and public buildings. Theyalso funded public celebrations,plays, and festivals. Nina Barclay’sLatin II class suggested the namefor the newsletter in 1999.

Julius Caesar (100-44 B.C.),one of Rome’s mostprominent aediles.

A N N U A L

G I V I N G

On the Cover: (counter clockwise from the top)View of entrance hall with stairway leading to the Converse Art Galleryfrom the 1944 Mirror; Students on snowy afternoon in 1974; Recentlyretired NFA Foundation Board President Theodore N. Phillips II, Esq. '74gives a speech; Two students traverse NFA's snow covered campus in the"war winter" of 1943; The NFA Wildcat tips his hat to a crowd.

D E A r A L U m N I

& F r I E N D S

NFA never closes! Forty years ago, when I arrived at the Academy as

a freshman, that was the policy of the school. NFA opened its doors

every day for 3,200 students from 14 towns, regardless of whether

a blizzard was expected or the Yantic River had flooded its banks.

As I look outside at the fourth snowstormof the winter of 2009-2010, I can still re-member piling into a Chevy Impala withother students from our Norwichtownneighborhood and pushing it through thesnow to NFA.

Today, the realities of modern life and thetechnological improvements of the 21stcentury mean that NFA occasionallycancels school or opens late due to in-clement weather. Even when classes arecancelled, however, the vision of NFA asa special institution that never closes itsdoors to the needs of students, faculty,parents, alumni and friends is at the coreof our mission to the community.

This message is especially important to remember during these uncertaineconomic times. The NFA Foundationhas been fortunate to complete severalsuccessful campaigns over the past 15years, and to build an Annual Fund withmore than 2,000 donors. This generoussupport from alumni and friends here inEastern Connecticut and throughout thenation and the world has made it possiblefor the Academy to expand and mod-ernize its facilities, and continue the

scholarship programs and curricula thatallow our students to pursue their dreams.

Both the public budgets and privatebenefactors who fund our school are underfinancial pressure today. Many people areuncertain how the inclement economy willaffect their own resources and quality oflife. We all wonder how to allocate thefunds and time we have available to themany needs within our communities.These are not easy decisions.

As the new President of the NFAFoundation’s Board of Directors, I havebeen asked to continue the good workdone by many leaders and volunteers onthe Academy’s Boards. In the comingyears, NFA must make improvements tothe Slater Museum, our athletic facilitiesand our technology resources in order tofulfill our mission. I am confident that wewill succeed with your steady andgenerous support. That is because NFAnever closes.

Sincerely,

Attorney Glenn T. Carberry ’72President, Board of DirectorsThe NFA Foundation, Inc.

Foundation News

Donor Impact

Board President Passes Gavel

INSIDE

ThIS ISSUE

Winter 2010Vol. XI1, No. 1

The Aedile is published up to four times annually for donors and volunteers.

The Norwich Free Academy Foundation, Inc.321 BroadwayNorwich, CT 06360Tel: 860.887.2507Fax: 860.889.4363E-mail:foundation@norwichfreeacademy.comWebsite: www.nfafoundation.org

Editor: Ellen Bremner

Contributing Writers:Ellen BremnerKristen FossumAtty. Glenn T. Carberry ’72

Photography:Alumni/Development StaffContributed

Design:Lavender Design

Printing:AM Lithography Corporation

NFA Foundation, Inc.2009-2010 Board of DirectorsAtty. Glenn T. Carberry ’72, PresidentJeremy D. Booty ’74, Vice PresidentLee-Ann Gomes ’82, SecretaryCarol Cieslukowski ’58, TreasurerDr. Matthew D. Amaro ’91Jeffrey I. Blinderman ’82Steven L. Bokoff ’72Thomas W. Hammond ’75 Lesley Mitchell Jones ’66 Theodore N. Phillips II, Esq. ’74Gail J. Piotrkowski

The Norwich Free Academy does not discriminatein its educational programs, services or employmenton the basis of race, religion, gender, national origin,color, handicapping condition, age, marital status or sexual orientation. This is in accordance withTitle VI, Title VII, Title IX and other civil rights or discrimination issues; Section 504 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended and theAmericans with Disabilities Act of 1991.

Dr. Matthew D.Amaro, D.M.DClass of 1991

NFA Corporator: Elected as a Norwich Free AcademyCorporator in November 2005

NFA Foundation, Inc.: Elected to the Foundation’s Board ofDirectors in November 2009

Education: Norwich Free AcademyProvidence CollegeTemple University School of Dental Medicine

Business: Norwich Family Dental Associates

F O U N D A T I O N N E W S

A N N U A L G I V I N G

Help Us Reach our GoalAs 2010 begins, we hope that you will make one of your New Year’s resolutions to support The Norwich Free Academy’s AnnualFund. Annual Fund dollars support the journey of our students as they aspire to define their individual talents and strengths.

This year’s goal is $220,000.To those of you who have already supported the 2009/2010 Annual Fund – THANK YOU! If youhave not yet responded to this year’s appeal – please make a gift today by completing the form on the following page, make asecure donation online at www.nfafoundation.org, or speak with one of our friendly student or alumni callers during our AnnualPhonathon, which begins on March 8.

Jeffrey I. BlindermanClass of 1982

NFA Corporator: Elected as a Norwich Free AcademyCorporator in November 2002

NFA Alumni Association Board ofDirectors: Elected in February 2009

NFA Foundation, Inc.: Elected to the Foundation’s Board ofDirectors in November 2009

Education: Norwich Free AcademyFranklin & Marshall CollegeNortheastern University

Business: AM Lithography Corporation

Community Affiliations: Norwich Little LeagueP.A.L.Norwich Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament Committee

Gail J. Piotrkowski

Norwich Free Academy Parent: Nicole-2001; Susan-2006; Stephen-2011

NFA Corporator: Elected as a Norwich Free AcademyCorporator in November 2008

NFA Foundation, Inc.: Elected to the Foundation’s Board ofDirectors in November 2009

Education: Lyman Memorial High SchoolCatherine Gibbs Business School

Business: Petrowsky Auctioneers, Inc.

Community Affiliations:Franklin Board of EducationHospice of Southeastern CTFriends of Kilambe

New Foundation Board Members

Name: NFA Class:

Spouse: NFA Class:

Address: E-Mail:

Phone: ( )

Birthdate:

Last First Maiden

Last First Maiden

I would like to make a tax-deductible gift of:

____ $25 _____ $50 _____ $100 _____ $250 _____ $500 $ ________ Other

to (please check one):

qThe Norwich Free Academy Annual Fund.

qThe Class of 2000 10th Reunion Gift in support of NFA’s Reid Fund.

qThe Class of 1985 25th Reunion Gift in support of NFA’s Reid Fund.

qThe Class of 1960 50th Reunion Gift in support of NFA’s Slater Museum Universal Access Project.

Payment Method:

q Enclosed is my check payable to The Norwich Free Academy Foundation, Inc.

q Please charge my VISA/MasterCard/Discover: Card # _______________________________________ Exp. Date ____________

Signature __________________________________________________________ qThis is an anonymous gift.

To make a gift of stock, please call the Foundation Office at 860.887.2507 ext. 5540.

Remit completed form, with payment to:

THE NORWICH FREE ACADEMY FOUNDATION, INC.321 Broadway • Norwich, Connecticut 06360 • 860.887.2507 • www.nfafoundation.org

Gifts from married alumni will be split unless otherwise indicated. • Thank you for your generosity!

YES! I want to support tradition and innovation!

2010 Reunion GiftsThis year, NFA’s 10th, 25th and 50th reunion classes have designated their annual gifts in support of special "class giftprojects" to commemorate their milestone reunions. To make a gift to your Reunion Class Project, please complete the form

below, and return it with your contribution to the address indicated, or give online at www.nfafoundation.org.

Class of 1960The Class of 1960 has chosen to desig-nate its 50th Reunion Gift Project insupport of the Slater Museum UniversalAccess Project, a planned renovationthat includes the installation of an eleva-tor and ramping system in the Museum.

The Class of 1960 is striving to raise$12,000 in support of this vitally impor-tant project. To commemorate the gift, a plaque acknowledging the class will be mounted in the 50th Reunion GiftGallery wall in NFA’s Latham Science &

Information Center; donors contributing$1,000 or more will be identified by nameon the plaque.

Class of 1985The Class of 1985 has designated its 25thReunion Gift Project in support of NFA'sReid Fund.The Reid Fund is a unique en-dowment whose purpose is to lend moneyto students in need. Students may applyto receive funds for a specific purposesuch as the purchase of a gym uniform,special book, pre-college test fees, etc.

The Class of 1985 is striving to reach agoal of $2,500, which will help provideaid to NFA students – so very importantin this time of economic uncertainty.

Class of 2000The Class of 2000 has also chosen todesignate its 10th Reunion Gift Projectin support of NFA's Reid Fund. Agenerous contribution from the classwill help provide aid to NFA studentsin need – now and in the future.

A N N U A L G I V I N G

D E A r A L U m N I

& F r I E N D S

NFA never closes! Forty years ago, when I arrived at the Academy as

a freshman, that was the policy of the school. NFA opened its doors

every day for 3,200 students from 14 towns, regardless of whether

a blizzard was expected or the Yantic River had flooded its banks.

As I look outside at the fourth snowstormof the winter of 2009-2010, I can still re-member piling into a Chevy Impala withother students from our Norwichtownneighborhood and pushing it through thesnow to NFA.

Today, the realities of modern life and thetechnological improvements of the 21stcentury mean that NFA occasionallycancels school or opens late due to in-clement weather. Even when classes arecancelled, however, the vision of NFA asa special institution that never closes itsdoors to the needs of students, faculty,parents, alumni and friends is at the coreof our mission to the community.

This message is especially important to remember during these uncertaineconomic times. The NFA Foundationhas been fortunate to complete severalsuccessful campaigns over the past 15years, and to build an Annual Fund withmore than 2,000 donors. This generoussupport from alumni and friends here inEastern Connecticut and throughout thenation and the world has made it possiblefor the Academy to expand and mod-ernize its facilities, and continue the

scholarship programs and curricula thatallow our students to pursue their dreams.

Both the public budgets and privatebenefactors who fund our school are underfinancial pressure today. Many people areuncertain how the inclement economy willaffect their own resources and quality oflife. We all wonder how to allocate thefunds and time we have available to themany needs within our communities.These are not easy decisions.

As the new President of the NFAFoundation’s Board of Directors, I havebeen asked to continue the good workdone by many leaders and volunteers onthe Academy’s Boards. In the comingyears, NFA must make improvements tothe Slater Museum, our athletic facilitiesand our technology resources in order tofulfill our mission. I am confident that wewill succeed with your steady andgenerous support. That is because NFAnever closes.

Sincerely,

Attorney Glenn T. Carberry ’72President, Board of DirectorsThe NFA Foundation, Inc.

Foundation News

Donor Impact

Board President Passes Gavel

INSIDE

ThIS ISSUE

Winter 2010Vol. XI1, No. 1

The Aedile is published up to four times annually for donors and volunteers.

The Norwich Free Academy Foundation, Inc.321 BroadwayNorwich, CT 06360Tel: 860.887.2507Fax: 860.889.4363E-mail:foundation@norwichfreeacademy.comWebsite: www.nfafoundation.org

Editor: Ellen Bremner

Contributing Writers:Ellen BremnerKristen FossumAtty. Glenn T. Carberry ’72

Photography:Alumni/Development StaffContributed

Design:Lavender Design

Printing:AM Lithography Corporation

NFA Foundation, Inc.2009-2010 Board of DirectorsAtty. Glenn T. Carberry ’72, PresidentJeremy D. Booty ’74, Vice PresidentLee-Ann Gomes ’82, SecretaryCarol Cieslukowski ’58, TreasurerDr. Matthew D. Amaro ’91Jeffrey I. Blinderman ’82Steven L. Bokoff ’72Thomas W. Hammond ’75 Lesley Mitchell Jones ’66 Theodore N. Phillips II, Esq. ’74Gail J. Piotrkowski

The Norwich Free Academy does not discriminatein its educational programs, services or employmenton the basis of race, religion, gender, national origin,color, handicapping condition, age, marital status or sexual orientation. This is in accordance withTitle VI, Title VII, Title IX and other civil rights or discrimination issues; Section 504 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended and theAmericans with Disabilities Act of 1991.

Dr. Matthew D.Amaro, D.M.DClass of 1991

NFA Corporator: Elected as a Norwich Free AcademyCorporator in November 2005

NFA Foundation, Inc.: Elected to the Foundation’s Board ofDirectors in November 2009

Education: Norwich Free AcademyProvidence CollegeTemple University School of Dental Medicine

Business: Norwich Family Dental Associates

F O U N D A T I O N N E W S

A N N U A L G I V I N G

Help Us Reach our GoalAs 2010 begins, we hope that you will make one of your New Year’s resolutions to support The Norwich Free Academy’s AnnualFund. Annual Fund dollars support the journey of our students as they aspire to define their individual talents and strengths.

This year’s goal is $220,000.To those of you who have already supported the 2009/2010 Annual Fund – THANK YOU! If youhave not yet responded to this year’s appeal – please make a gift today by completing the form on the following page, make asecure donation online at www.nfafoundation.org, or speak with one of our friendly student or alumni callers during our AnnualPhonathon, which begins on March 8.

Jeffrey I. BlindermanClass of 1982

NFA Corporator: Elected as a Norwich Free AcademyCorporator in November 2002

NFA Alumni Association Board ofDirectors: Elected in February 2009

NFA Foundation, Inc.: Elected to the Foundation’s Board ofDirectors in November 2009

Education: Norwich Free AcademyFranklin & Marshall CollegeNortheastern University

Business: AM Lithography Corporation

Community Affiliations: Norwich Little LeagueP.A.L.Norwich Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament Committee

Gail J. Piotrkowski

Norwich Free Academy Parent: Nicole-2001; Susan-2006; Stephen-2011

NFA Corporator: Elected as a Norwich Free AcademyCorporator in November 2008

NFA Foundation, Inc.: Elected to the Foundation’s Board ofDirectors in November 2009

Education: Lyman Memorial High SchoolCatherine Gibbs Business School

Business: Petrowsky Auctioneers, Inc.

Community Affiliations:Franklin Board of EducationHospice of Southeastern CTFriends of Kilambe

New Foundation Board Members

Name: NFA Class:

Spouse: NFA Class:

Address: E-Mail:

Phone: ( )

Birthdate:

Last First Maiden

Last First Maiden

I would like to make a tax-deductible gift of:

____ $25 _____ $50 _____ $100 _____ $250 _____ $500 $ ________ Other

to (please check one):

qThe Norwich Free Academy Annual Fund.

qThe Class of 2000 10th Reunion Gift in support of NFA’s Reid Fund.

qThe Class of 1985 25th Reunion Gift in support of NFA’s Reid Fund.

qThe Class of 1960 50th Reunion Gift in support of NFA’s Slater Museum Universal Access Project.

Payment Method:

q Enclosed is my check payable to The Norwich Free Academy Foundation, Inc.

q Please charge my VISA/MasterCard/Discover: Card # _______________________________________ Exp. Date ____________

Signature __________________________________________________________ qThis is an anonymous gift.

To make a gift of stock, please call the Foundation Office at 860.887.2507 ext. 5540.

Remit completed form, with payment to:

THE NORWICH FREE ACADEMY FOUNDATION, INC.321 Broadway • Norwich, Connecticut 06360 • 860.887.2507 • www.nfafoundation.org

Gifts from married alumni will be split unless otherwise indicated. • Thank you for your generosity!

YES! I want to support tradition and innovation!

2010 Reunion GiftsThis year, NFA’s 10th, 25th and 50th reunion classes have designated their annual gifts in support of special "class giftprojects" to commemorate their milestone reunions. To make a gift to your Reunion Class Project, please complete the form

below, and return it with your contribution to the address indicated, or give online at www.nfafoundation.org.

Class of 1960The Class of 1960 has chosen to desig-nate its 50th Reunion Gift Project insupport of the Slater Museum UniversalAccess Project, a planned renovationthat includes the installation of an eleva-tor and ramping system in the Museum.

The Class of 1960 is striving to raise$12,000 in support of this vitally impor-tant project. To commemorate the gift, a plaque acknowledging the class will be mounted in the 50th Reunion GiftGallery wall in NFA’s Latham Science &

Information Center; donors contributing$1,000 or more will be identified by nameon the plaque.

Class of 1985The Class of 1985 has designated its 25thReunion Gift Project in support of NFA'sReid Fund.The Reid Fund is a unique en-dowment whose purpose is to lend moneyto students in need. Students may applyto receive funds for a specific purposesuch as the purchase of a gym uniform,special book, pre-college test fees, etc.

The Class of 1985 is striving to reach agoal of $2,500, which will help provideaid to NFA students – so very importantin this time of economic uncertainty.

Class of 2000The Class of 2000 has also chosen todesignate its 10th Reunion Gift Projectin support of NFA's Reid Fund. Agenerous contribution from the classwill help provide aid to NFA studentsin need – now and in the future.

A N N U A L G I V I N G

The Norwich Free Academy Foundation, Inc.321 BroadwayNorwich, CT 06360

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PAIDNORWICH, CT 06360

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AED

ILE

Volume X11, No. 1

Winter 2010

Published by

The Norwich Free Academy

Foundation, Inc.

Miss Smith was the daughter ofLeonard O. Smith, a prominentNorwich industrialist. Born intoluxury in 1909, Miss Smith was anextremely talented and intelligentyoung woman who attended SmithCollege and went on to medicalschool at Cornell University, whereshe studied to be a psychiatrist. Whileat Cornell, she began to exhibit signs of schizophrenia, a disease thatwreaked havoc upon her life.Numerous surgical treatmentsresulted in her eventual loss ofcognitive skills, and Eva requiredcaretakers until her death.

In the late 1970s, a trust wasestablished for Miss Smith, and a portion of her substantial assets was used to support many local non-profit organizations, including TheNorwich Free Academy.

Although Miss Smith did not attendNFA and has no known ties to theschool, her generous gift to theAcademy provided $1 million to the Sesquicentennial Campaign insupport of the school’s unrestrictedendowment and $1.3 million forscholarships. A gifted pianist, Miss

Smith’s generosity to the Sesqui-centennial Campaign is recognized inthe Music and Art Wing of the FrankCenter with a plaque proclaiming herlove of music.

The Eva Virginia Smith Scholarshipmakes it possible for socially andeconomically disadvantaged studentsattend college. Leo Butler, NFA’sDirector of Diversity, has worked

closely with many of the EvaVirginia Smith Scholarship re-cipients. “I can attest to the factthat these young people havehad an opportunity to fulfilltheir dream of attending thecollege of their choice,” Leo says.

“This scholarship affirms the notionthat all students, regardless of theirbackground, have the right to live out the American dream. The EvaVirginia Smith Scholarship has al-lowed numerous bright and capablestudents from diverse backgrounds tofurther their education.”

Although Miss Smith passed away in2001, her legacy lives on to positivelyimpact NFA students – now and in the future.

D O N O r I m p A c T

Donors are key partners who share NFA’s belief in the power

of education. The following page describes just one of the many

private gifts that have benefited The Norwich Free Academy.

EvaVirginia Smith

Foundation BoardPresident Passes Gavel

After twelve years as the guiding force ofthe Norwich Free Academy FoundationBoard, Attorney Theodore Phillips haspassed the gavel to fellow alumnusAttorney Glenn Carberry ’72. Phillips,who will remain as a member of theFoundation Board until November 2011,served as President since 1997 and leaves behind a legacy of unparalleledservice to the Academy and the NFAFoundation during times of tremendousgrowth, including the highly successfulSesquicentennial Campaign that resultedin the construction of the Sidney E. FrankCenter of Visual and Performing Arts.

Attorney Phillips is actively involved withcountless civic and charitable organizationsand, as NFA Foundation Board President,has served with enthusiasm, energy anddevotion. “Ted’s dedication to NFA goesabove and beyond and his energy isunsurpassed. I often asked, ‘When do yousleep?!?,’” says Deborah Lee, the NFAFoundation’s Director of Development. “It is a privilege to work with such adedicated volunteer and I thank him forhis leadership, dedication and support.”

Throughout his tenure as President, Tedremained committed to supporting NFAand its independent status, noting early inpresidency, “It is the private contributionsthat allow the Norwich Free Academy tobe set apart from purely publicly financedschools.” He was instrumental in helpingto formulate a comprehensive Develop-ment Department, which has since grownand maintained strong Annual Fund,Scholarship and Planned Giving programs.Ted also served as a key part of the solici-tation team that worked to secure a trans-formative gift from Sidney Frank ’38 – thelargest donation in Academy history.

Thank you, Ted, for your exceptionaldedication and distinguished years ofservice and leadership!

What does Aedile mean?

This year, The Norwich Free Academy is pleased to welcometwo new Class Agents – alumni who work to help theirclasses increase philanthropic participation in the NFAFoundation’s yearly fundraising efforts:

Judy Payne Paro ’79

Jackie Mendez ’99

They join a group of motivated and generous individuals whosupport NFA in so many ways. Welcome aboard!

Nearly 70 individuals, representing 45 class years, currently serveas Class Agents. If you would like further information on NFA’sClass Agent Program or are interested in becoming a Class Agent,please contact Ellen Bremner, Director of Annual Fund at860.425.5545 or at bremnere@norwichfreeacademy.com.

Welcome New Class AgentsAedile (pronounced e-dial) is aLatin word given to Roman leaderswho reinvested their own funds tocarry out projects for the publicgood, pro bono publico. Aedilesbuilt and maintained roads, aque-ducts and public buildings. Theyalso funded public celebrations,plays, and festivals. Nina Barclay’sLatin II class suggested the namefor the newsletter in 1999.

Julius Caesar (100-44 B.C.),one of Rome’s mostprominent aediles.

A N N U A L

G I V I N G

On the Cover: (counter clockwise from the top)View of entrance hall with stairway leading to the Converse Art Galleryfrom the 1944 Mirror; Students on snowy afternoon in 1974; Recentlyretired NFA Foundation Board President Theodore N. Phillips II, Esq. '74gives a speech; Two students traverse NFA's snow covered campus in the"war winter" of 1943; The NFA Wildcat tips his hat to a crowd.