Old Penn Charter Weekend 2016
Penn Charter saw one of the largest turnouts ever at the OPC Reception, as alumni gathered to honor Steve Bonnie OPC '66 and former teacher Ralph Gunther Hon. 1689 – and despite the pouring rain! See photos of the weekend.
Bonnie, the recipient of the Alumni Award of Merit, was presented with the award by his former student Andy Kramer OPC '81 on behalf of the Alumni Society. Many know – and perhaps have affectionately needled – Bonnie about the many ways he gives back to Penn Charter. Bonnie said on Friday night, "Penn Charter gave and gives us so much; we all need to find new ways to give back to our alma mater. Even if you simply paint an ugly window well." Read his full speech here.
Mary Gallagher (pictured at right) and Dana Toedtman (pictured below) were awarded the Honorary 1689 diploma. Denise Haigler, longtime assistant to the Head of School, offered remarks on Gallagher, who began her career at Penn Charter supporting the athletic office and then joined the front office team. "That's how I would describe Mary," Haigler said, "a team player. ... While Mary has been gone for 15 years, her heart has never left Penn Charter, and she will always be part of the Penn Charter community." Read Haigler's full remarks to welcome Gallagher as an Honorary 1689.
Head of School Darryl J. Ford offered remarks for learning specialist Dana Toedtman, who retired in 2015 after 30 years at Penn Charter.
After two years leading the Alumni Society, Margaux Pelegrin OPC '99 passed the torch to Brian Cash OPC '00. Cash will assume the role of president of the Alumni Society on June 1.