Francis Stanton

Jonathan W. Strong Jr. ’62 (2022)

Author

Jonathan W. Strong Jr. has made a tremendous impact as a well respected fiction writer and published author of novels and short stories over the past 50 years. Coming from a long line of North Shore Country Day graduates, the Strong legacy began with Jonathan’s parents, Jonathan W. Strong Sr. and Anne Malinda Burnham, who met as members of the Class of 1934. Jonathan was raised in Winnetka, Illinois, where he attended North Shore Country Day, as did his aunts, uncles and cousins.  He graduated in 1962 and enrolled at Harvard University where his writing career began. After graduating from Harvard, he began his career teaching fiction-writing at Tufts University, where he remains a longtime lecturer. Jonathan also taught at Harvard College, Wellesley College and University of Massachusetts. 

By the time Jonathan was 25, he had graduated from Harvard, won a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, had twice won O. Henry Awards for his short fiction stories, “Supperburger” and “Patients,” and won the Rosenthal Award from the National Institute of Arts and Letters for his first novel, “Tike and Five Stories.” Jonathan’s first short story, "Supperburger," has since been anthologized and according to literary critic James Morrison, it has become a "classic in gay fiction." Jonathan then went on to write and publish over the next four decades and is the author of 17 novels. 

In addition to writing, Jonathan has an abiding interest in 19th century opera and has written four adaptations of Gilbert and Sullivan works performed in New England. Most notably, Jonathan conducted several alumni in the summer of 1963 in a production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s last opera, “The Grand Duke.”  The performance filled 300 seats at the Winnetka Women’s Club, and Mac McCarty said, “it was the best opera ever!”

In 1998, Jonathan was Writer in Residence at Northwestern University, another distinct honor. For the occasion he wrote an essay entitled, “Home Turf, Where a Writer Feels Familiar.” The essay was written on his manual typewriter and beautifully describes how unexpected events in life can bring us together.

His impressive career, deep commitment to the literary community, and his dedication and advocacy in his writing with equity and inclusion exemplifies the school motto of “Live and Serve.” North Shore Country Day proudly presents the 2022 Francis R. Stanton ’27 Alumni Recognition to Jonathan W. Strong Jr. ’62. 

Presented October 1, 2022 by Thomas F. Geraghty III ’62
Fellow alumnus and classmate, North Shore Country Day
 

Rocky Wirtz '70 (2021)

W. Rockwell “Rocky” Wirtz President, Wirtz Corporation 
Chairman, Chicago Blackhawks Co-Chairman, Breakthru Beverage Group 

W. Rockwell “Rocky” Wirtz has served as Chairman of the Chicago Blackhawks and President of Wirtz Corporation since 2007, where his role extends to a vast array of businesses from sports and beverage distribution to entertainment, real estate, agriculture and banking. Above all else, Rocky is most proud to lead his family's commitment to numerous civic and charitable organizations. His dedication to the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation and its mission to create a healthier, smarter, more secure world for families in and around Chicago is unwavering. The foundation has donated millions of dollars to dozens of organizations focused on youth programs, education, housing, and health and wellness.

Karen Spencer Kelly '58 (2020)

Karen has had a very accomplished and well recognized career as a lawyer and dedicated volunteer. She formed her own firm in 1993, specializing in civil litigation for approximately 20 years. She then developed a municipal finance practice, serving the City of Philadelphia and its agencies. In 2009, she was appointed Chief Counsel by the Pennsylvania Treasurer. In 2017, she formed KESK Consulting, providing diversity assessment services, training, continuing legal education and crisis management/conflict resolution. Karen’s life has been one of committed service to others and a proponent of education.
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Centennial Stanton Recognition (2019)

This year, in honor of our Centennial, we did not award the Stanton Recognition to an individual but rather honored all those who have been previous recipients of this special honor. By recognizing their service to others, across dozens of occupations and reflecting innumerable personal passions, we also recognized the work that each person contributes to make our world slightly better. In addition, we were honored to have family members of Francis Stanton'27 present—son Francis Stanton'73 and daughter-in-law Barbara Schilling Stanton '63.

Susie Brew Schreiber '58 (2018)

Susie was recognized for her very active and civic-minded activities in Winnetka. She has also served in roles for the restoration and preservation of land and water. Susie has been a very active and civic-minded citizen in Winnetka and has served in roles for the restoration and preservation of land and water. Since 1993, she joined in the efforts to tackle the heavily polluted Waukegan Harbor, which at the time was one of the most polluted sites on the Great Lakes, and has been chair of the Waukegan Harbor Citizens Advisory Group.

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Joel de la Fuente '87 (2017)

Following his graduation from North Shore in 1987, Joel went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts from Brown University in 1991 and a Master of Fine Arts degree in 1994 from NYU's graduate acting program at the Tisch School of the Arts. Currently, Joel stars as Inspector Kido in the Emmy-winning drama, "The Man in the High Castle," and in Netflix's "Hemlock Grove." He also appeared on "Law & Order: SVU," for 10 seasons. 

Liam Davis '86 (2016)

After graduation from North Shore in 1986, Liam attended Kenyon College, graduating in 1990 with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. He first moved to Boston, where he worked as a musician/puppeteer for The Underground Railway Theatre, helping to bring educational theater to young audiences. Liam’s impressive career and passion for music, education, entertaining and teaching in the lives of children and adults, exemplifies the school's motto “Live and Serve.” 

Betsy Perkins Hill '70 (2015)

Betsy began her career in education as a teacher at North Shore Country Day and her passion for education has continued throughout her distinguished career in various businesses and educational settings. Her impressive career and passion for education, which enhance learning abilities in the lives of children and adults, exemplifies the school motto of “Live and Serve.”
She is part of a three-generation family who attended North Shore. 

John R. (Rick) MacArthur '74 (2014)

The president and publisher of Harper’s Magazine, Rick’s impressive career in journalism and service to defend the liberties of others exemplifies the school motto "Live and Serve." He began his career as a reporter and continues to be a writer advocating for press freedom and human rights.

David Misch '68 (2013)

David began his career in Boston where he wrote political satire, hosted a live music radio show and performed as a comic folksinger and stand-up comedian at colleges, coffeehouses and nightclubs in New England and the Midwest. His song Somerville was released nationally by Fretless Records and he was named "Best Comedian in Boston" by Boston Magazine. He returned to California to write for the Mork and Mindy TV show, which received two Emmy-award nominations. In addition, David co-wrote Leave It To Dave, the pilot for David Letterman's first talk show.

Peyton Young '62 (2012)

Peyton went to Harvard University, graduating in 1966 with a bachelor’s degree cum laude in general studies and from the University of Michigan in 1970 with a Ph.D. in mathematics where he was awarded the Sumner B. Myers thesis prize for his work in combinatorial mathematics. Thus began his very distinctive, distinguished and accomplished career in the field of education.

Dick Meyer '76 (2011)

Dick graduated from Columbia University in 1980 with a bachelor’s degree in religion, and from the University of Oxford in 1982 with a master’s degree in politics with a specialty in the history of political philosophy. From his work with CBS News, NPR, the BBC and Scripps Washington Bureau, Dick Meyer has dedicated his life to helping others understand their world through journalistic excellence. 

Willian "Biff" Steel '60 (2010)

William “Biff” Steel’s family roots run deep at North Shore. His mother Miriam Fetcher Steel is a 1933 graduate, his father Bill Steel taught here 20 years (and remains highly respected; the impact on his students has been life-long), and sister Polly Steel is a 1965 graduate. Biff was recognized for his dedicated work in micro finance at the World Bank and with the International Fund for Agricultural Development, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.  

Patricia Blunt Koldyke '54 (2009)

A North Shore "lifer," Pat’s dedication and advocacy in education, global affairs and public service serves as an example to all and exemplifies the school’s motto “Live and Serve.” She continued her education at Vassar College, and her first job was with Harper’s Bazaar as a gal Friday to the shoe editor. Pat has made a remarkable and significant impact individually and in partnership with her husband Mike, in meaningful and influential ways in the greater Chicago-area and global communities.

Ellen Rockwell Galland '63 (2008)

Ellen Rockwell Galland is an architect who has long been committed to the design and construction of energy-efficient buildings that contribute to the long-term conservation of the environment. She received her B.A. from Vassar College and a bachelor in architecture from the University of Illinois. She is a registered architect in the states of Illinois and Colorado and a member of the American Institute of Architects.

Richard Marx '81 (2007)

Richard Marx is a musician who has left a powerful mark on the music industry. With a career spanning more than 20 years, he has sold over 30 million records; performed 19 top 20 singles as a solo artist; written 13 number one songs; and received the 2004 Grammy Song of the Year, along with Luther Vandross, for Dance With My Father. As an alumnus, he has generously provided his time, talent and knowledge at Morning Ex performances and meeting with students.

George Elmes Welles '48 (2006)

Georgia Elmes Welles has led a life of service to her community through volunteerism and with a strong philanthropic spirit that has significantly impacted educational, social service and artistic arenas. Her contributions of time, talent and resources have and will continue to make a remarkable difference for years to come. Georgia attended Vassar College.

Linda S. Breuer '69 (2005) 

Linda is a "lifer" and attended Bennington and Goddard colleges where she studied art and preschool education. She pursued her artistic abilities as a painter, and then moved into the field of preschool education using art to work with abused children. In 1977, she took on a new role in her family's industrial vacuum-cleaner business working her way up to become president of the company. Ultimately, Linda purchased the business and turned it around despite the skepticism of those who felt she lacked a business background.

Suzanne Folds McCullagh '69 (2004)

From the day Suzanne graduated and took her first steps off the NSCD campus, Suzanne has dedicated herself to the lifelong study, appreciation, exhibition, publication, teaching and acquisition of Old Master prints and drawings, culminating in a career which has had a significant impact on the world of art in Chicago.

Hamilton "Chip" Moses, III '68 (2003) 

Chip has had a long and distinguished medical career. Before entering medicine, he studied music and English at Oberlin College and the University of Pennsylvania, where in 1972 he received a degree in physiological psychology. In 1975, he received his medical degree from the Rush Medical College in Chicago. He completed his residency training in psychiatry, internal medicine and neurology at RushPresbyterian-St. Luke's Hospital in Chicago, and was on staff at The National Hospital London and Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore Maryland.

Jessica Harper '67 (2002) 

Jessica's contributions as an artist have reached people of all ages and through several art forms: as an actress, as a writer and performer of award-winning children's music, and as author of a number of award-winning children's books. Jessica attended Sarah Lawrence College.

Thomas F. Geraghty '62 (2001)

Tom's commitment to serving those in need of advocacy and justice has been pervasive in his legal career, teaching, professional activities and published material. He received an AB degree in 1966 from Harvard University. In 1970, he earned his Juris Doctorate degree from Northwestern University School of Law.

Deborah Vainder Edidin '67 (2000) 

Deborah is an accomplished physician noted in the field of pediatric endocrinology and diabetes. She attended Vassar College, and received her B.A. at the University of Chicago and her M.D. from the Abraham Lincoln School of Medicine, University of Illinois. She completed her residency at the Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center in the Department of Pediatrics. 

Merle C. Chambers '64 (1999)

Merle is a successful business-woman and a true philanthropist. She received her B.A. in political science from the University of California at Berkeley, a J.D. from the University of California's Hastings College of Law, and a tax law degree from the University of Denver. She owned and managed a successful transportation business and a large, independent oil and gas company. Through her philanthropic endeavors and various foundation board positions, she directs millions of dollars each year to non-profit organizations assisting women and children. 

Herman H. Lackner '30 (1998) 

In the spirit of his 1930 Mirror quotation "They are lost who have not speech" (applied to Herman by an anonymous classmate)—he says what he thinks. When not designing buildings as an architect or delivering himself of strong opinions, he has been active in the Chicago Literary Club, traveling, reading and, on occasion, entertaining members of the North Shore Alumni Senior Class (alumni who have passed their 5Oth Reunion). He is, in short, a dynamo.

Judge James L. Oakes '41 (1997) 

Dedicated to the study of law since graduating from Harvard College in 1945 followed by Harvard Law School in 1947, Judge Oakes' distinguished legal career began as a trial lawyer. Having served in public office as Vermont State Senator from 1961-1965 and Vermont Attorney General from 1967 -1968, his legal experience led him to the District Court of Vermont in 1970 where he served until he was named to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit in 1971, where he was Chief Judge from 1989 to 1992.

Robert A. Jones '55 (1996) 

Bob's professional reputation developed first at Bank of America in 1969 where he authored a weekly financial newsletter. He was appointed Vice President and Director of Financial Forecasting for Chase Econometrics, a division of Chase Manhattan Bank. He authored numerous articles for trade journals and magazines as well as authoring Power of Coinage, a book on the U.S. financial structure and related monetary theory. He is the founder and chairman of Market News Service, Market Broadcasting Corporation, Jones International, and the founder and chairman emeritus of MMS International.

Dr. Anne Young' 56 (1995)

A world-class neurologist who “loves science” and has contributed to important progress in several key areas of research, Anne was recognized for making such meaningful work fun for herself and her students. 

Lawrence Howe '38 (1994) 

A Life Trustee of the school, Larry was recognized for his approach to life and his willingness to serve as a leader in many civic and community organizations. His many contributions to North Shore include service on the Board of Trustees and parenting four graduates. 
 

Robert A. Aldrich '35 (1993)

Robert was honored for his work as a distinguished pediatrician and long-time advocate for children, especially in Seatlle where he piloted the Kidspace program to create a more kid-friendly city. He practiced medicine, conducted important scientific research, wrote numerous articles and books, lectured around the world and served as a national leader on children's issues. 

John Nash Ott '27 (1992)

While working by day at the First National Bank of Chicago, John spent his evenings and weekends in experiments that lead to the development of time-lapse photography. As he and others refined this process, the applications turned out to be enormous, ranging from the laboratories of plant biologists to the studios of Hollywood filmmakers. Many know the process best from the famous Walt Disney nature films, on many of which John worked. 

Edward L. Glaser II '47 (1991)

Ted Glaser is surely one of the most remembered and loved graduates of The North Shore Country Day School. It was not so much his blindness which had such an impact on people as the way he coped with it. His energy, optimism, warmth and insatiable curiosity simply overwhelmed the fears and insecurities that he might have faced, as well as any possible discomfort of those around him. Add to these qualities his great intelligence and deep religious convictions and you can easily understand why he accomplished so much.

Dr. Katherine Sanford Mifflin '33 (1990)

In her work and in her life Katherine has embodied the school's motto, "Live and Serve." Her long and distinguished career as a research scientist with the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland, produced important contributions to the understanding of the complex mechanisms of cancer.

Fisher Howe '31 (1989)

While many people might be satisfied with one distinguished career, Fisher Howe had what he referred to as multiple incarnations. He was a textile salesman. Then, following 25 years as a foreign service officer, he was dean at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. Fisher also was involved in fundraising programs for a number of non-profit institutions.

Roger Fisher '39 (1988)

Roger served for four years in the United States Air Force and, in 1948, graduated from Harvard Law School where he was Editor of the Law Review. Returning from an administrative post in Paris, he joined the law firm of Covington and Burling in Washington, D.C., working primarily on issues of public international law for foreign governments. In the late '50s he became a lecturer at Harvard Law School, soon to become a Professor of Law.

John A. Howard ’39 (1987)

After graduating from North Shore, John attended Princeton University until his studies were interrupted by World War II. A decorated WWII veteran, John went on to a distinguished career in education and civic service. As President of Rockford College, he served on the National Commission on Marijuana and Drug Abuse, and helped to organize and lead the American Association of Presidents of Independent Colleges and Universities.

John Newhall Wilson '43 (1986)

A star athlete, a class leader and an academic achiever while at North Shore, "Bud" went on to become one of the most prominent heart specialists in New Mexico. He was recognized for his dedication to and outstanding care of adults and children.

William C. Fowle '28 (1985)

A leader in independent education, William was honored for his wisdom, service, and dedication to his field. He served as Headmaster of Mercersburg Academy, Executive Director and President of E.E. Ford Foundation and a founder of the Secondary School Admissions Test and the SSAT Board.
 

John W. Macy, Jr. '34 (1984)

John W. Macy, Jr. made many notable contributions to American society. He was a top official under five presidents, earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969 and was the first President of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
 

Phyllis Babb Perkins '46 (1983)

Phyllis gave so much of her energy, wisdom, values and loving nature to this school. She provided exceptional leadership as Chairman of the Board, many committees, President of the Alumni Association, and shepherded all of her children through North Shore, 14 years each.

Laura B. '33 and Francis D. Moore, M.D., '31 (1982)

The Moores clearly exemplified distinguished service to their community. Dr. Moore was one of America's most respected surgeons who spent his adult life practicing and teaching. Mrs. Moore was deeply involved in community service in Boston, and at the same time raised five children and participated in local government.

Francis R. Stanton '27 (1981)

Our first recipient and namesake of the award, Francis R. Stanton ’27 embodied the spirit of "Live and Serve."  When North Shore opened on October 2, 1919, Franny Stanton was one our first 5th graders. His long-standing commitment to North Shore as teacher, coach, Alumni Association President, Board of Directors member and as an NSCDS parent, inspired this distinguished award.