Pathways are rarely straight lines. Few understand that better than Gianluca Vallini 鈥�11, whose journey from 淫人色欲社 to representing Italy at the 2026 Winter Olympics is a story of resilience, adaptability, and belief in the long game.听 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鈥檚 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鈥檚 about responding to setbacks with purpose and staying grounded in why you started.

For current South Kent students, Gianluca鈥檚 message is clear: your pathway doesn鈥檛 need to look like anyone else鈥檚. 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鈥檚 Pathways program exists to highlight stories exactly like Gianluca鈥檚 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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Pathways: Daniel Brunner 鈥�91 Shares Lessons from a Career of Service

As a 4th of July tribute to 淫人色欲社 students who have gone into service, Pathways recently welcomed distinguished alumnus Daniel Brunner 鈥�91 as a latest guest -> .听 Pathways Series, a program designed to expose students to real-world experiences and diverse career paths. Hosted by fellow alumni Dillon Duncan 鈥�04 and Rich Brande 鈥�88, the conversation offered a compelling look into Brunner鈥檚 nearly three decades of service in the U.S. Navy, FBI, and most recently, the private sector.

Brunner’s career reflects a powerful blend of leadership, courage, and adaptability. After graduating from South Kent and serving in the Navy, Brunner spent 20 years with the FBI as a Special Agent, earning national recognition as a SWAT Team Leader and Crisis Management expert. He provided critical testimony in high-level investigations, focusing on gang activity, cartel operations, and the application of RICO statutes to prosecute organized crime, including high-profile MS-13 cases. He even played a key role in the investigation and eventual capture of a Top Ten Most Wanted fugitive.

During the talk, Brunner spoke candidly about the intensity of federal investigations, the discipline required for tactical operations, and the emotional weight of service. His thoughtful reflections resonated with students, particularly those interested in law enforcement, the military, or public service.

Brunner also discussed his post-retirement venture, the Brunner Sierra Group (BSG), which he co-founded with his wife Christine. The firm specializes in forensic accounting, fraud investigations, and security consulting. Leveraging a team of experts鈥攊ncluding former federal agents鈥擝SG offers high-level investigative services to clients navigating complex financial disputes.

Throughout the session, Brunner emphasized the importance of character, integrity, and staying mission-focused, lessons he attributes in part to his formative years on the Hillside. He encouraged current students to pursue purpose-driven careers and to stay open to unexpected opportunities.

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Ben Eisendrath 鈥�24, a standout student-athlete from 淫人色欲社, has just completed his first year at Harvard University, successfully balancing the demands of rigorous academics with the evolving world of college basketball. Originally from Southern California, Ben made the bold decision to travel across the country to attend South Kent, where he thrived both in the classroom and on the court. Now, as he wraps up his first year at one of the world鈥檚 most prestigious universities, he鈥檚 reflecting on his journey 鈥� from adapting to life in Connecticut, excelling at South Kent, and stepping onto the court at Harvard.

During his time on the Hillside, Ben established himself as a top student and a key contributor to South Kent鈥檚 basketball program. His work ethic, discipline, and leadership set him apart, preparing him for the next level of competition 鈥� both academically and athletically. Now, as a Harvard student-athlete, Ben is gaining firsthand experience in a rapidly changing college basketball landscape.

With March Madness just concluded, Ben is uniquely positioned to offer insight into the evolving NCAA environment, including the growing impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities and the increasing influence of the transfer portal. These changes are reshaping the landscape of college athletics, and Ben鈥檚 perspective from within the system offers a valuable look at how student-athletes are navigating this new era.

We hope you enjoy this conversation exploring Ben鈥檚 path from California, to the Hillside, to Cambridge, Massachusetts. His journey is one of adaptability, growth, and excellence 鈥� an inspiring story for current and future South Kent students, and a powerful example of what鈥檚 possible through hard work and perseverance.

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When arrived on the Hillside from England, he was a promising hockey prospect. However, South Kent鈥檚 culture of discovery helped him find a new passion鈥攇olf. With relentless hard work, quiet leadership, and a fierce drive to improve, Luca quickly became South Kent鈥檚 top golfer and team captain.

鈥淟uca Alderson鈥檚 raw talent on the course has left an indelible mark on South Kent Golf,鈥� says Coach Bill Whittaker. 鈥淭hough his journey had its own rhythm, his skill never wavered. As he takes his next swing at Chicago State, we can鈥檛 wait to see where his natural ability takes him鈥攂ecause when he鈥檚 on, he鈥檚 unstoppable.鈥�

This spring, Luca led the Cardinals to an impressive finish at the Western New England Prep Golf Invitational, improving three spots from last season鈥檚 placement. He also captured the title at the SKS Spring Championship at River Oaks Golf Club, further solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the program.

On Decision Day, Luca was featured in a special Student Spotlight 鈥淧athways鈥� interview with Young Alumni leaders Dillon Duncan 鈥�04 and Rich Brande 鈥�88. There, he shared his journey from hockey to golf, his deep love of history, and his aspirations to pursue a career in the sport he now calls his own. He will be attending Chicago State University on a full athletic scholarship, where he will study history, while competing at the collegiate level.

Adding to the celebration, South Kent alumnus and NBA legend (recently featured on Pathways) shared a special video message for Luca. Wright鈥攁long with his former teammate Dwyane Wade鈥攔ecently launched , a groundbreaking initiative aimed at broadening access to the game of golf and empowering underrepresented youth.

鈥淕olf is one of those things that has opened up to us as access,鈥� Wade shared in a recent interview. 鈥淚t鈥檚 only because we鈥檝e been able to get out of our communities, travel the world, experience and meet people, and then be able to play this beautiful game.鈥� Wright鈥檚 message to Luca echoed that same spirit of opportunity and encouragement, recognizing the significance of young athletes like Luca stepping into leadership roles in the sport.

Luca is a respected and admired member of the South Kent community, and we are proud to celebrate all he has achieved. His story is a testament to what can happen when talent, curiosity, and character come together on the Hillside.

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The event was particularly impactful for students enrolled in Earth Science, Biology, and Physics, who had the opportunity to connect their coursework with real-world applications. The panel of local experts featured Rebecca Neary of the Warren Land Trust and Connecticut Land Conservation Council, Rich Chavka, South Kent鈥檚 North Campus Coordinator, and Michael Kronick, Fire Control Officer for Connecticut鈥檚 Western District. Together, they explored how community action, education, and innovative collaboration are critical to protecting natural ecosystems while managing emerging environmental risks.

Prior to the event, panelists toured South Kent鈥檚 North Campus sustainability programs and shared lunch with students and faculty, creating opportunities for informal connection and deeper learning. During the discussion, students asked thoughtful questions about the future of conservation, fire safety best practices, and the real-world application of their studies in Earth Science, Biology, and Physics.

The afternoon was a true example of community engagement, drawing participation from South Kent students, faculty, and even members of Kent鈥檚 Emergency Management team. The event also attracted interest beyond the school community. Kent鈥檚 Emergency Management team was invited to attend, reflecting the shared commitment to addressing these critical issues at a regional level.

Academic leads, Lindsey Lefevre and Michelle Borsavage, played an instrumental role in organizing the event, ensuring that the discussion aligned with the students鈥� academic interests and course of studies.

As 淫人色欲社 continues to prioritize environmental stewardship, events like Watershed Moments serve as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and proactive management in preserving our natural resources. With ongoing discussions and initiatives, students and faculty alike are inspired to take action in protecting their environment for future generations.

Stay tuned for future panels and monthly in person talks at Bringhurst Auditorium.

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淫人色欲社 recently welcomed back Marge Smith鈥� a school historian, former Director, and current Curator of the Kent Historical Society鈥攆or a captivating Pathways Series talk that bridged generations and continents.

A lifelong member of the South Kent community, Marge reflected on her upbringing on the Hillside as one of the large group of 鈥淔aculty Brats鈥濃�攁 term affectionately used to describe children of faculty members who grew up immersed in campus life. Her personal stories painted a vivid picture of South Kent鈥檚 past, grounded in the values that continue to shape its future.

Marge鈥檚 connection to the School runs deep, shaped by the legacy of her parents, Maggie and Art Smith. Her mother, Maggie Smith, was a beloved art teacher whose creative spirit still echoes through the halls of the Maggie Smith Visual Arts Center, named in her honor. Through her teachings in oil painting, watercolors, etching, sculpture, and art history, Maggie empowered generations of students to explore and express themselves. Her frequent trips to New York City exposed students to world-class museums and the transformative power of art.

Marge鈥檚 father, Art Smith, served as a dedicated faculty member and crew coach, and a new boy mentor during the 1950s and 鈥�60s. Together, the Smiths left an indelible mark on South Kent, retiring in 1979 after decades of service. Their commitment to education, culture, and character helped define the South Kent experience.

During her talk, Marge spoke about the evolution of boarding schools, with a focus on how South Kent has grown while holding fast to its core values. She shared the story of Suke Hasegawa, the School鈥檚 first Asian student, and the early exchange program fostered by her father鈥攁 reflection of his deep appreciation for Asian cultures. The Smith family warmly welcomed international students, facilitating a powerful cross-cultural exchange that highlighted shared humanity in the years following World War II.

One of the most moving traditions that grew from this connection was the planting of cherry trees to commemorate each Japanese student鈥檚 graduation. These trees remain a living symbol of South Kent鈥檚 commitment to global friendship and understanding.

Though South Kent has evolved, Marge reminded listeners that its essence remains unchanged. The School still cultivates curiosity, resilience, and global citizenship鈥攙alues instilled in her own childhood and carried forward by today鈥檚 students.

Her talk was not just a trip down memory lane鈥攊t was a testament to the enduring spirit of South Kent, and a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring the past while embracing the future.

Join Marge at Alumni Weekend for book signings, and talks.听 For information about preordering visit, .

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In recognition of Presidents Day and all of the esteemed service members from South Kent, we are excited to welcome . McFate鈥檚 journey has taken him from the classrooms and athletic fields of South Kent to the front lines of modern warfare, global strategy, and academia.

A Visionary in Future Warfare

Dr. Sean McFate is a strategic maverick. Once in a generation, a uniquely qualified scholar-warrior with rare insight emerges to offer a divergent vision of future war. While many emphasize technology and firepower as the key to military dominance, McFate argues that the real battlefield advantage lies in strategic thinking. He challenges conventional wisdom, advocating for a paradigm shift in how Western powers approach conflict and security.

A Career Unlike Any Other

After graduating from South Kent in 1988, McFate embarked on a military career that saw him serve as a paratrooper in the US Army鈥檚 82nd Airborne Division. His path then led him into the world of paramilitary contracting and private intelligence, where he operated in some of the most volatile regions of the world. From negotiating with African warlords and raising armies for U.S. interests to conducting strategic reconnaissance for oil companies and preventing a potential genocide in the Rwanda region, McFate鈥檚 experiences are as diverse as they are impactful.

Scholar and Author

Despite his deep involvement in high-stakes global affairs, McFate pursued academic excellence, earning degrees from Brown University, Harvard University, and a PhD from the London School of Economics. Today, he is a leading voice in military strategy, a professor at Georgetown and Syracuse universities, and an acclaimed author. His writing, both non-fiction and fiction, sheds light on modern warfare in ways that traditional analyses cannot. His 2016 novel, Shadow War, originally conceived as a memoir, evolved into a gripping narrative exploring the shadowy world of covert operations in Eastern Ukraine鈥攄rawing heavily from his own experiences.

Join Us for This Special Event

淫人色欲社 invites students, faculty, and alumni to join us for this exclusive virtual Pathways talk with Dr. Sean McFate. His insights into military strategy, national security, and global conflict promise to be both enlightening and inspiring. 鈥淚鈥檓 honored to share my journey with the South Kent community,鈥� McFate said. 鈥淢y time at South Kent shaped my character and leadership skills in ways I still draw upon today.鈥�

Peter Thompson, a fellow South Kent alumnus and military veteran who works with the Advancement Team to support alumni engagement, emphasized the significance of McFate鈥檚 visit: 鈥淪ean鈥檚 career exemplifies the values we uphold at South Kent鈥攃ourage, intellect, and service. His perspective on modern warfare and leadership will be invaluable for our students and alumni alike.鈥�

Don鈥檛 miss the opportunity to hear from one of South Kent鈥檚 most distinguished alumni as he shares his remarkable journey and groundbreaking ideas on the future of warfare.

For more about Sean McFate and his work, visit [].

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淫人色欲社 is thrilled to announce the next installment in our Pathways Series, featuring an extraordinary alumnus, Professor Sukehiro Hasegawa 鈥�62. This highly anticipated talk is a unique opportunity to hear from a global leader whose life鈥檚 work has been deeply influenced by his time on the Hillside.

A Life of Global Impact

Professor Hasegawa has led a remarkable career as a diplomat, academic, and humanitarian. After graduating from 淫人色欲社 in 1962, he earned advanced degrees from institutions such as Stanford University and Yale University, building a foundation for an impactful career in international service. Among his many achievements, Professor Hasegawa served as the United Nations Secretary-General鈥檚 Special Representative for Timor-Leste, playing a pivotal role in fostering peace and nation-building efforts in the region. His work exemplifies the values of resilience, leadership, and service instilled at South Kent.

Memories from the Hillside

During the Pathways talk, Professor Hasegawa will share reflections on how his South Kent experience shaped his worldview. From the rigorous academics to the close-knit community, he attributes much of his success to the foundational skills and mindset cultivated on the Hillside. This is a unique chance for current students, faculty, and alumni to connect with a true embodiment of South Kent鈥檚 mission to develop global citizens.

Preparing for Brian Sullivan鈥檚 Asia Visit

This Pathways talk also sets the stage for an exciting chapter for 淫人色欲社鈥檚 international community. In March, Head of School Brian Sullivan will travel to Asia, accompanied by The Reverend Stephen Klots, Rich Brande ’88, and Dillon Duncan ’04. Their visit underscores the school鈥檚 commitment to fostering relationships with our alumni and families abroad, strengthening the bonds that tie our global community together.

Join Us

Don鈥檛 miss this inspiring Pathways event with Professor Sukehiro Hasegawa. Whether you鈥檙e a student, a parent, or a proud alumnus, this talk is sure to leave you with a renewed sense of purpose and pride in 淫人色欲社鈥檚 legacy of producing world leaders.

Stay tuned for details on how to attend the event, and be sure to follow our updates as we prepare for Head of School Brian Sullivan鈥檚 Asia visit in March.

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Pathways: Jonathan Wilson 鈥�84 鈥� Crafting a New Instrument and Legacy

淫人色欲社 alumnus Jonathan Wilson 鈥�84 has charted an extraordinary journey from the Hillside to the forefront of musical innovation. Renowned for inventing the , a modern hybrid of the guitar and viola da gamba, Jonathan鈥檚 work bridges centuries of musical tradition with cutting-edge artistry. He will share his story and insights on the upcoming Pathways Alumni Panel alongside Dillon Duncan 鈥�04 and Rich Brande 鈥�88.

Watch Below

A Passion for Music and Innovation

Jonathan鈥檚 relationship with music spans more than four decades, with 30 years dedicated to realizing his vision for a modern Arpeggione鈥攁 bowed guitar first conceived by Johan Staufer in 1823. In 1993, he collaborated to create an early version of the instrument but found it lacking the versatility he desired. By 2002, out of personal frustration, Jonathan built the first 鈥淭ogaMan鈥� prototype to meet his performance needs.

The response was immediate and overwhelming. Without even a dedicated website, Jonathan鈥檚 MP3 artist page drew inquiries, and by the end of that year, the first official TogaMan GuitarViol was commissioned. Demand grew so quickly that GuitarViols Inc. developed a lengthy waitlist, primarily comprised of Film and TV composers.

A Soundtrack to Modern Media

The GuitarViol has since become a go-to instrument for some of the world鈥檚 most notable composers. Its evocative tones, combining the resonance of a bowed instrument with the familiarity of a guitar, lend themselves beautifully to cinematic soundscapes. In 2006, Tyler Bates used the GuitarViol in his score for the movie 300, catapulting the instrument into the spotlight. Today, GuitarViols are a staple in film, TV, and video game soundtracks, with their distinctive sound heard daily across global media.

The TogaMan Identity

The name TogaMan was inspired by Paolo Veronese鈥檚 1563 painting The Wedding at Cana, which features a toga-clad viol player holding the instrument like a guitar. Jonathan embraced this imagery to define his brand, opting for a name that set him apart from other builders while reflecting the instrument鈥檚 historical roots and innovative design.

Beyond the Music

Jonathan鈥檚 inventive spirit and entrepreneurial journey have turned his vision into an enduring legacy. His Valencia, California-based company, GuitarViols Inc., continues to refine the GuitarViol, pushing its design to new levels of artistry and craftsmanship.

Pathways Alumni Panel

Jonathan鈥檚 story reflects the South Kent ethos of embracing challenges, pursuing passions, and innovating boldly. We are thrilled to welcome him to the next Pathways Alumni Panel, where he will discuss his journey, the creative process behind his invention, and the impact of his work on the world of music and beyond.

Join us in celebrating Jonathan鈥檚 inspiring path from South Kent to a global stage of artistic achievement.

the Music on LA Times Article

Hear more from his musicians and creators on YouTube

SEE ALL SOUTH KENT SCHOOL MASTERCLASS TALKS

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SKSPA Pathway Series: Insights from South Kent鈥檚 Renowned Hockey Program

淫人色欲社 has a 100-year history as a nationally renowned hockey program, and this event is an opportunity to celebrate that legacy while learning from distinguished alumni, coaches, and experts.

Panelists Include:

Andrey Uryadov 鈥�04
– Began his journey at South Kent as a student in 2000 and now serves as a Faculty member and Coach.
– Former captain of SKA St. Petersburg, leading his team to the Russian National Championships and earning a silver medal in the 1998-1999 season.
– Captain of South Kent鈥檚 hockey team, leading them to their first New England Prep School Ice Hockey Championship in 2004.
– Played Division I hockey at RPI and professionally in Europe.
– As a coach, he has led South Kent鈥檚 teams to multiple USPHL and National Championships, including the 18U National Title in 2017-2018.

Dillon Duncan 鈥�04
– South Kent alum and Director of Constituent Engagement.
– Played USHL hockey for the Lincoln Stars, Division I hockey at Mercyhurst College, and professionally in Europe for two years.
– Recruited and Coached the inaugural U18AAA team at South Kent, 鈥�23 – 鈥�24

Rich Brande 鈥�88, P鈥�24
– A proud South Kent graduate who played at UConn and in the minor professional leagues.
– Former Director of Admissions at South Kent and leader in launching the South Kent Selects Hockey Academy, Currently Director of Engagement & Stewardship at SKS
– Recruited and Coached the inaugural U18AAA team at South Kent, 鈥�23 – 鈥�24

Todd Dougherty 鈥�90
– Current New England Scout for the Langley Rivermen (BCHL)
– Alumni scout for USA Hockey and former assistant coach.
– Played at Lake Forest College and Rochester Institute of Technology.
– Played 8 Professional sessions in the ECHL, CHL, CoHL, & WCHL

Paul Pechmann 鈥�87
– Captain and MVP of three sports (soccer , hockey, lacrosse) at SKS during his time on the Hillside.
– Was South Kent鈥檚 first ever New England Player of the Month, sponsored by the Hartford Whalers
– 16 years coaching Junior Hockey
– Head Coach and General Manager of the Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings
– Played for the UConn Huskies

This discussion promises to be insightful for parents, students, and alumni alike, with firsthand stories and expert advice on excelling in hockey while balancing academic and personal growth.

We hope you鈥檒l join us for this engaging event and learn more about the pathways available through South Kent鈥檚 hockey program and its remarkable network. Let鈥檚 celebrate South Kent鈥檚 proud hockey tradition together.

See the below QA Panel – please note the opening was not recorded but the majority of the QA portion is available online below.

Contact Lara Barrett to be added to the dial in.

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