Alumni Archives - ��ɫ��

Paul L. Abbott

haasej@southkentschool.org — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 20:05:25 +0000

Paul L. Abbott, 86, a longtime resident of Kent, CT, passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Paul was an educator who played many different roles at his beloved ��ɫ�� in South Kent, CT. He retired in 2014 after 49 years of dedicated service.

Born on September 26, 1939, in Newburgh, NY, he was the son of the late Nathaniel B. and Clara (Livingston) Abbott. Their example of unwavering devotion to teaching and interest in and respect for every member of the school community lived on in their son.

Paul grew up at the Millbrook School in Millbrook, New York. Here, under the influence of brilliant educators, his passion for teaching was ignited. The interactions between faculty families and the Millbrook boys became his model for an ideal school community.

Situated in the rolling hills of Dutchess County, Millbrook School was the ideal place for our future ecologist to thrive. Paul and his siblings explored the diverse ecosystems of the beautiful campus. He was also involved in various projects in the evolving Trevor Zoo at the school.

Paul had a natural eye for photography. He was intrigued by the subtleties involved in the printing process. Long hours in the Millbrook darkroom perfected his skills. Paul covered all school activities, from sports to visiting lecturers, cultural events, and graduations. He graduated cum laude from Millbrook in 1957. Photography remained a lifelong hobby, and Paul built a darkroom in his Macedonia home.

At Kenyon College, Paul was enrolled in a liberal arts program. He thrived in the small classes. While he relished the new concepts learned in the arts, his passion for the logic and mysteries of science grew. He formed a deep friendship with one of his theology teachers and lasting relationships with some of the seminarians studying with him. Paul graduated cum laude in 1961.

He received a Master of Arts in Teaching from Harvard University in 1962. Paul’s goal was to teach in a boarding school, but he also wanted to experience the public-school environment. He started his teaching career at Staples High School in Westport, CT. He then taught at Uniondale High School in Uniondale, NY. In 1965, he came to the Hillside at ��ɫ��.

In the summer of 1962, a National Science Foundation Grant brought Paul to San Francisco State College, where he found Terese Wagner. He wooed her by mucking around in tide pools, swimming in the San Lorenzo River, walking among the redwoods, spending time in Carmel, and enjoying romantic evenings in San Francisco. His knowledge of poetry, deep theological discussions, commitment to family and teaching, and love of jazz won her heart. On July 4, 1964, at Holy Cross Church in Santa Cruz, CA, he married the love of his life, Terese.

Paul brought his wife and infant daughter to ��ɫ�� in South Kent, CT, in the late summer of 1965. He was on duty from morning chapel services all the way through call-in at the end of the evening. He knew when the boys needed tough love or a peanut butter sandwich. He sympathized with them when they were sent home and rejoiced with them in both small and great achievements. He taught with great energy and love and lived by both the Millbrook School motto, “Not for One’s Self, But for All,” and ��ɫ��’s Trinity of Values: “Simplicity of Life, Self-Reliance, and Directness of Purpose.”

Following the example of his father at Millbrook School, Paul epitomized the best of boarding school teachers, wearing many hats with distinction. He was a master science teacher and served as Dean of Students, college guidance counselor, advisor, coach, business manager, Ambassador Program Director, and, at the end of his career, Senior Master.

Paul loved the beautiful town of Kent and felt compelled to give back to the community. He enjoyed politics and ran for Second Selectman at one time. The race was a close one. Following a recount, he was determined to have lost by a single vote. He also served on the Inland Wetlands Commission, the Zoning Board, and the Kent Center School Scholarship Committee.

Wanting to increase his knowledge and enrich his teaching, Paul spent several summers studying under National Science Foundation grants. In 1966, he and his young family headed to Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. In the summer of 1968, he studied at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. During the summers of 1971 and 1972, Paul and Terese loaded their VW bus with food, clothing, paper, crayons, books, games, and their two young daughters, destined for California. Pulling a pop-up camper over the mountains was quite the adventure. Luckily, gas was selling for $.19 a gallon. He spent 1971 at NASA and 1972 at Stanford University. At the time, researchers were making massive advances in computing and analyzing data from the moon landing. The dinner table conversations were fascinating.

Paul was present at 49 Prize Day ceremonies honoring South Kent students. This included his daughters, Kate (1982) and Ruth (1984). For a brief period in the 1970s and 1980s, South Kent opened its doors to local girls as day students. Paul’s final year at South Kent coincided with the graduation of his grandson, Corey Greenberg (2014).

The dedication of the 1971 yearbook honored Paul and read:

“If there are perfect people in the world, then Mr. Abbott is one of them. He is an excellent teacher, advisor, and friend. In his classroom, anyone who has the slightest desire to learn, learns. Late in the night, sitting in his living room, he can make the days and weeks you have spent worthwhile and make the days ahead seem even more exciting than you thought possible.”

��ɫ�� established the Paul and Terese Abbott Cup more than two decades ago. It is awarded to a one-year postgraduate student who, during his time at ��ɫ��, most embodies the principles of the School. This year’s recipient will be attending Suffolk University in the fall.

In addition to his loving wife, Paul is survived by two daughters, Kate Abbott of Fairfax, VA, and Elizabeth Ruth Greenberg and her husband, Elliot, of Kent, CT. He is also survived by a brother, Donald B. Abbott of North Andover, MA, and a sister, Betsy Elkins of Syracuse, NY. He is also survived by six grandchildren, Sebastian, Joaquin, and Jacian Perez; Dillon Greenberg and his wife, Catherine; Kyle Greenberg and his wife, Kristen; and Corey Greenberg and his wife, Krystal; as well as a great-grandson, Paul James Greenberg.

A memorial service at St. Michael’s Chapel at ��ɫ�� will be announced in the fall.

In remembrance of Paul’s life and service, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to ��ɫ�� to establish the Paul Abbott Fund for Faculty Development. Gifts may be made online through the School’s giving page or sent directly to ��ɫ��, 40 Bulls Bridge Road, South Kent, CT 06785. Please designate “Paul Abbott” when making your gift.

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Lawrence H. Jenkins ’74

haasej@southkentschool.org — Sat, 02 May 2026 18:25:51 +0000

Passed away in May 2026.

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South Kent’s Chris Birden Jr. ’26 Commits to Miami

andersong@southkentschool.org — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:18:24 +0000

��ɫ�� proudly congratulates Chris Birden Jr. ’26 on his commitment to the University of Miami. A dominant presence on the court, Chris has established himself as one of the top power forwards in prep basketball, earning the opportunity to continue his career at the Division I level.

Arriving on the Hillside from Louisiana, Chris has fully embraced the boarding school experience, developing into a confident and mature student leader. Both on and off the court, he has exemplified dedication, resilience, and character, using his time on the Hillside to prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead. On the court, Chris brings elite athleticism combined with knockdown 3-point shooting, making him a tough matchup on both ends. He rebounds at a high level and runs the floor extremely well in transition, creating constant pressure.

Chris’s growth on the Hillside is a direct reflection of South Kent’s individualized approach to player development. Through tailored and consistent training and a focus on both skill refinement and basketball IQ, he has used his time here with intention. That commitment has shaped him into a confident, mature player who understands the game at a high level and leads by example, fully maximizing every opportunity along the way.

“��ɫ�� is fortunate to have Chris on the Hillside and to feel the impact he has made on our basketball program. He’s an exceptional player and an even better young man. We’re excited to see him continue his journey at the University of Miami and will be cheering him on every step of the way!” – Director of Basketball, Craig Carter

The South Kent community looks forward to following his continued achievements in this next chapter. Congratulations, Chris!

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South Kent’s Tomass Rutulis ’26 Commits to Princeton

andersong@southkentschool.org — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:58:01 +0000

��ɫ�� is proud to congratulate 18U Prep goaltender Tomass Rutulis ’26 on his recent commitment to Princeton University. A standout on the ice and in the classroom, Rutulis has distinguished himself as one of the premier goaltenders at the prep level, earning the opportunity to continue his academic and athletic career at an Ivy League.

Arriving on the Hillside as a Third Former from his home in Latvia, Rutulis has fully embraced the boarding school experience, developing into a confident and mature student leader. Both on and off the ice, he has exemplified dedication, resilience, and character, using his time on the Hillside to prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Over his three years with the Hockey program, Rutulis has been a cornerstone in net, known for his consistency, composure, and relentless work ethic. His ability to rise to the moment has made him a trusted presence for his team and a respected leader within the program.

“Tomass has time and time again demonstrated that he is one of the top goaltenders at this level over his last three years at South Kent,” said 18U Prep Head Coach Ryan Bliss. “The consistency he brings in his compete level and work ethic every day is second to none, and it has been a pleasure to coach him for the last three years. We are very excited for Tomass and his family and look forward to following his continued successes beyond South Kent.”

At Princeton, Rutulis will continue to shine on the ice while being challenged academically, well-prepared for success in all aspects of college life. The South Kent community looks forward to following his continued achievements in this next chapter. Congratulations, Tomass!

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Students Gain Real-World Filmmaking Experience with South Kent Alumnus

andersong@southkentschool.org — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 19:33:33 +0000

��ɫ�� students recently had the unique opportunity to step behind the camera and into the world of professional filmmaking, as our Photography & Digital Media class, along with members of the Advanced Media Group, participated in an immersive, hands-on course led by alumnus John Miller ’08.

Now based in Houston, Texas, Miller returned to the Hillside with a meaningful purpose: to film footage for an upcoming documentary on fellow South Kent alumnus Isaiah Thomas ’08, a professional basketball player and 2x NBA All-Star. Having been part of an Emmy Award–winning multimedia project based in Seattle, Miller brought both high-level experience and creative insight to campus. The project not only provided students with real-world filmmaking experience, but also created a powerful full-circle moment for alumni and students alike.

For Miller, coming back to South Kent was about more than just the project.
“The Hillside had a profound impact on me, and this was just one way I could give back,” he shared.

Throughout the experience, students were not simply observers; they were active collaborators. Miller encouraged them to think creatively, contribute ideas, and engage in the storytelling process.

“The students actually helped me a lot in the storytelling experience. I provided them the opportunity to have creative input, and in return, I received several great shots of the campus that I wouldn’t have captured �ǳٳ��ɾ��.”

In addition to gaining hands-on experience, students’ contributions may extend far beyond the classroom. The on-campus footage they helped capture, through camera operation, shot composition, and creative direction, positions them for inclusion in the film’s credits should the documentary be picked up by a major distributor such as ESPN or The Players’ Tribune. It’s a rare and meaningful opportunity for students to see their work recognized on a professional stage.

Moments like these highlighted not only the students’ growing technical skills, but also their confidence and creativity; qualities that are continually nurtured on the Hillside. Above all, the experience reflected the joy of the creative process and the supportive environment that makes it possible.

“We had fun. It’s fun to be creative, and I think SKS provides an environment where it’s safe to be yourself.”

By blending professional-level work with student collaboration, this immersive course exemplified the kind of hands-on, meaningful learning that defines the South Kent experience, where alumni return to inspire, and students are empowered to create.

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From South Kent to the Olympic Stage: Gianluca Vallini ’11

barrettl@southkentschool.org — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 18:04:05 +0000

From South Kent to the Olympic Stage: Gianluca Vallini ’11

Pathways are rarely straight lines. Few understand that better than Gianluca Vallini ’11, whose journey from ��ɫ�� to representing Italy at the 2026 Winter Olympics is a story of resilience, adaptability, and belief in the long game. See his interview on our .

As a student-athlete at South Kent, Gianluca was known for his work ethic, quiet determination, and commitment to growth both on and off the ice. Like many South Kent boys, his time on the Hillside helped shape not only his athletic foundation, but also his mindset: discipline, accountability, and the willingness to push through uncertainty.

Competing internationally requires more than talent. Gianluca’s Olympic journey demanded years of sacrifice, difficult decisions, and constant recalibration balancing training, travel, national identity, and the pressure of elite competition. Along the way, he learned that success is rarely about linear progress. Instead, it’s about responding to setbacks with purpose and staying grounded in why you started.

For current South Kent students, Gianluca’s message is clear: your pathway doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s. The skills developed on the Hillside grit, curiosity, teamwork, and resilience apply far beyond campus, whether in sports, business, the arts, or service.

South Kent’s Pathways program exists to highlight stories exactly like Gianluca’s real journeys shaped by passion, perseverance, and the courage to follow opportunity wherever it leads. His story is a powerful reminder that while the destination may change, the foundation built at South Kent endures.

As Gianluca prepares to compete on the world stage in 2026, the South Kent community proudly cheers him on, celebrating not just an Olympian, but an alumnus who exemplifies what it means to forge your own path.

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Nicholas A. Hill ’63

haasej@southkentschool.org — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 20:55:54 +0000

March 26th, 1945 – February 14, 2026

Nicholas Adams Hill, 80, passed away on February 14th, 2026 in . A longtime resident of , he had moved to New Jersey six weeks prior to be closer to family. Nick married Silvia “Bibi” Freyre Hill, his wife of nearly 50 years, on June 21, 1975. He was the proud father of Magdalena (Maña) and Alison Hill and loving grandfather to Alina and Javier Ravinet.

Born in , to Benjamin Douglas Hill and Mary Dingman Hill, Nick was raised in Greenwich, Connecticut. Throughout his life, he spoke fondly of outdoor adventures in Meads Point, where he, his two older brothers, “Benji” and “Timmy,” and his younger sister, Maria, grew up. He relished his time exploring the woods, swimming and fishing in the Long Island Sound, and discovering the wonders of nature.

Nick attended ��ɫ�� and Moravian College, where he excelled at sports, including ice hockey and tennis. He proudly served three years in the U.S. Army at posts in Frankfurt, Germany and San Antonio, Texas. He was moved by having had the opportunity to provide support to wounded soldiers. Following his military service, he built a career in public relations, which included two decades with Marriott International.

For nearly 40 years, he lived with rheumatoid arthritis. He faced the pain and limitations quietly and gracefully, and was admired for his non-complaining attitude.

He is remembered as kind, friendly and easy-going, one who enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, including good food, cocktails, sun, and salt water. His whiskey sours and peanut butter and jelly “fold” sandwiches live on.

Nick leaves behind a family who misses him: his daughters, Alison Hill and her husband Jake Livingston, and Maña Hill and her husband Andres Ravinet; his grandchildren, Alina and Javier Ravinet; his brother, Timothy G. Hill; and all of his nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held in May. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Nick’s memory to the Rheumatology Research Foundation, which advances research and training that improves the health of patients living with rheumatic diseases. http://www.rheumresearch.org

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State of the School 2026: A Moment of Shared Responsibility

Sarah Chase — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:36:57 +0000

��ɫ�� has released its , delivered by its 10th Head of School, Brian Sullivan, marking a defining moment in the School’s history and formally launching , the most ambitious financial endeavor in the School’s 103-year history.

Recorded in St. Michael’s Chapel, the address reflects on the School’s momentum and outlines a clear and definitive path forward. “As South Kent enters its second century, our mission to form young men of character, resilience, and purpose remains as vital today as it was in 1923,” Sullivan shared. “At the midpoint of my third year as Head of School, I am deeply encouraged by the momentum across the Hillside.”

That momentum includes record growth in The South Kent Fund, the highest boarding enrollment in the School’s history, expanded academic and co-curricular offerings, and a revitalized North Campus now serving as a living classroom. Sullivan emphasized that these gains are not accidental, but the result of a dedicated community working quietly and steadily to ensure the School is prepared not only to endure, but to lead.

The address also introduces The South Kent Initiative, a multi-year effort designed to position the School for long-term, sustainable growth by investing in its people, programs, and place. As of February 2026, South Kent has already raised $28 million in gifts and future commitments toward the Initiative, with $17 million remaining to reach its goal.

“This is a moment of shared responsibility,” Sullivan noted in his remarks. “One that calls for thoughtful investment in our people, programs, and place.” To that end, the School announced that all funds raised between now and June 30, 2028 will count toward The South Kent Initiative, including gifts made during , taking place on Tuesday, February 24.

With this announcement, South Kent invites alumni, parents, grandparents, friends, and community partners to participate in shaping the School’s next chapter. “With your partnership,” Sullivan said, “we can continue building on our proud legacy and help write the next chapter of South Kent’s storied Hillside.”

the 2026 State of the School Address.

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Beyond the Classroom: A Week of Experiential Learning

andersong@southkentschool.org — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 20:27:15 +0000

Experiential Learning Week has become a winter staple in ��ɫ��’s academic calendar. Launching in 2024, this week of meaningful learning outside the regular class schedule has become a community favorite. English faculty member, Sadie Cohen, who led efforts in designing the week of programming, stated that, “Courses focus on practical skills, personal interests, or passions outside core academics, providing diverse learning experiences for our students.”

A sample of the 2026 courses included:

Leather-working
Culinary experiences making homemade pasta, ice cream, dumplings, gluten-free baking, and more
Golf-course design and architecture
College tours
Carpentry
Yoga & Meditation
Wilderness First Aid Training with our community partner, Adventure Discovery

Beyond these daily course offerings, students also enjoyed a variety of evening programs. From relaxed community gatherings, such as a make-your-own pizza night, to creative sessions in our SKS Maker Space, the evenings offered students meaningful opportunities to unwind, connect, and decompress after full days of experiential learning.

Experiential Learning Week reflects ��ɫ��’s commitment to a truly holistic education, one that extends well beyond textbooks and classrooms. Centered around student choice, the week gives students the freedom to follow their own interests, explore new passions, and step outside their comfort zones to try something new. With faculty, staff, and campus partners all taking part, the week becomes a shared community experience focused on helping students not only build practical skills but also create lasting memories in a supportive, dynamic environment.

Photos from this exciting week of learning can be found on our . Please reach out to communications@southkentschool.org, if you need guidance in accessing.

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Michael Corrigan ’64

haasej@southkentschool.org — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 15:07:25 +0000

The Reverend Michael Corrigan of Colrain MA, died unexpectedly of a heart attack on Feb 1, 2026 at the age of 80. Born in Baltimore MD to Bishop Daniel and Elizabeth Corrigan, he grew up in St. Paul, MN, Denver, CO and New York City.

Informed by his parents’ dedicated works of civil disobedience and gender equality in the Episcopal Church, Michael spent his early adult years at Columbia University, there he protested the Vietnam war, served on the Strike Coordinating Committee during the historic, student-led University shutdown of 1968, and volunteered at St. Stephen and the Incarnation in Washington DC.

Fortified by these experiences, Michael sought a career in the ministry. He graduated from the Episcopal Theological School in Cambridge, MA and was ordained by Bishop Paul Moore at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. He served first as curate at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Lake Forest, IL and shortly thereafter became rector at Church of the Good Shepherd in Granite Spring, NY.

Michael then moved to the Boston area where he served first as chaplain at Boston University, then as rector at St. John’s Church in Westwood, MA, and finally as rector at Church of Our Savior in Brookline, MA, where he faithfully and tirelessly served for 17 years. Michael’s vision for Church of Our Savior was that of a thriving, multigenerational community, built on a dedication to the Gospel, Christian intellectualism, education, and acts of service and kindness. The lives and families he touched during his ministry there will always be a part of the church’s legacy.

Upon his retirement from Church of Our Savior, Michael was appointed chaplain at the Northfield Mount Hermon School in Gill, MA. Drawing from the deep love he had for his own boarding school experience, he enthusiastically taught, coached, mentored, and ministered both teacher and student alike, reinvigorating the church’s role in the community of NMH.

Michael served as a trustee for his beloved alma mater the ��ɫ�� as well as Hebron Academy. In 2001, Michael provided counseling and spiritual guidance to survivors and responders at Ground Zero in the aftermath of 9/11. In his retirement, he was an active member of St. John’s Church in Ashfield, MA, where he was assistant treasurer and served on the liturgy and mission committees. He also traveled widely, from Machu Picchu to Rome, sang in the Greenfield Community College Chorus, relished his daily runs and was an avid Boston University hockey fan.

Michael Corrigan was a remarkable and giving father, husband, partner, friend, confidant, and healer. His compassion, warmth, and infectious humor is deeply loved and missed. Michael is survived by his adored partner, Nancy Boyd; his children; Nell Waters, Sam, James, and Patrick Corrigan; and grandchildren; Max, Luke, and Logan Bernegger, Sienna, Fiona, and Celine Corrigan; he is also survived by his daughters-in-law; Alexandra Pirozzi and Julia Corrigan; loved co-parent Sylvia Robinson Corrigan, mother of Nell and Sam and his many beloved nieces and nephews. Michael is predeceased by his loving and devoted wife of 35 years and parent of James and Patrick, Patricia Corrigan; his brothers, David, Robert, Daniel, Patrick, and John Corrigan, as well as his parents Bishop Daniel and Elizabeth Corrigan. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John’s Church in Ashfield, MA.

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Alumni Archives - ����ɫ����

Paul L. Abbott

Lawrence H. Jenkins ’74

South Kent’s Chris Birden Jr. ’26 Commits to Miami

South Kent’s Tomass Rutulis ’26 Commits to Princeton

Students Gain Real-World Filmmaking Experience with South Kent Alumnus

From South Kent to the Olympic Stage: Gianluca Vallini ’11

Nicholas A. Hill ’63

State of the School 2026: A Moment of Shared Responsibility

Beyond the Classroom: A Week of Experiential Learning

Michael Corrigan ’64

Alumni Archives - ��ɫ��