RE Log - Fall 2022

20 Ransom Everglades LOG FALL 2022 Thompson, Mauro, Kappelman and Siegler keep RE on course Four Ransom Everglades teachers with a combined 152 years of experience have helped RE stay grounded and connected to important traditions even as the school leaps boldly into the future. Karen Thompson, in her 41st year; Joe Mauro, in his 38th; Don Kappelman, in his 37th; and Greg Siegler, in his 36th, bring as much energy and enthusiasm to their various roles as they do experience – and their experience is remarkable. Besides serving as full- time teachers, all serve as advisors, and all have held leadership posts at various times. “All fit the definition of ‘at your service,’” Interim Head of School Rachel Rodriguez said. “They put students first, and they also strive to be there for their colleagues. They are beloved by alumni and are nothing short of the foundation of this institution. We are proud and fortunate to call them our faculty.” The four arrived to RE within five years of each other, landing in the ’80s when Ransom Everglades was a much smaller school. When Thompson joined the faculty, she was the youngest on campus. Siegler was mentored by Ginny Onorati, who retired in 2021 after 47 years at RE. Mauro’s mentor was a World War II veteran, and Siegler interviewed with the late Frank Hogan (see In Loving Memory, page 88.) Thompson served as Interim Head of the Middle School last year. Mauro previously served as Assistant Director of the Middle School and Middle School Athletic Director. Kappelman has served as Dean of the Eighth Grade and RE Summer Camp Director (as did Mauro and Siegler). Siegler has been Middle School Director of Student Activities, Dean of Students and even Director of Admission. And those are just the big jobs – Thompson, Kappelman and Mauro also coach clubs or sports, and all have taken on other roles. Kappelman, Mauro and Siegler also have received the Arthur Moses Faculty Award, the highest award given to RE teachers. Learn more about them on the following pages. The Veterans Photo by Suzanne Kores