Chapin Alums Come Back to School!

Chapin Alums Come Back to School!

 On Wednesday, November 20, over 80 guests of all ages returned to 100 East End Avenue for a night of learning and camaraderie. During this annual event, alums partake in one class from a varied slate of offerings to delve into what today’s Chapin students are learning. (This year’s classes are listed below.) Joy, curiosity and thoughtful conversation abounded as alums engaged in their hour-long class. Following the lesson, alums, Upper School science scholars and professional community members gathered for a lively reception on the 2nd floor. 


Class Descriptions

“Fun With Physics,” Led by Dr. Prasad Akavoor, Upper School Science Teacher
Whether physics was your favorite class or your worst nightmare, this evening is all about excitement and hands-on discovery. Watch sparks fly, things shoot in the air, and everyday objects do mind-boggling things—all while having a blast and intriguing your mind! Through demos and experiments, we will explore and see just how fun and fascinating physics can be. No grades, no stress, just pure science magic and laughter. Come for the fun, stay for the cool science!

“Exploring Leadership Through Personal Reflection,” Led by Xiomara Hall, Associate Head of School
Incorporating exercises from both the Peer Leadership curriculum and the World Leadership School’s purpose-driven framework, participants in this workshop will explore different leadership styles, listen deeply to one another, and engage in reflection to identify how personal uniquities both enhance and impact one’s leadership. 

“Reimagining Austen,” Led by Carlynn Houghton ’96, Head of Upper School English
In this short course on adaptations of Jane Austen novels, participants will have the opportunity to celebrate the canon of this revolutionary author and to think about ways in which adaptation and reframing can help us tell other, equally revolutionary, stories through and around her work.

“Tinkering & Making,” Led by Dr. Jonathan Olivera, Director of the Hayot Center for Innovation
Come try out some of the tools in The Hayot Center for Innovation (HCI)! By tinkering, we learn about the properties of materials and capabilities of tools, which very often leads to making something. It is the foundation for more complex design and creation using technology and engineering skills. In this hands-on class, we will engage in the design thinking process and face some engineering challenges that will put your creativity and problem-solving skills to the test. Experience how fun learning can be here in the HCI!

Science Research at Chapin (Student Presentations) Led by Elaine Pan, Coordinator of Scientific Inquiry and Laboratory Research
Spend the evening exploring Chapin’s Science Research Program through the lens of our Upper School science scholars.