Towers Newsletter
Vol. 67, No. 3, Summer 2013
Overbrook School for the Blind
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Established 1832
Commencement
The Graduates in Pictures and Words
Accomplished and interesting as individuals, the class of 2013 is extraordinary as a
group. Individually, they are athletes, scholars, singers, and cooks. They are kind
people, engaged with life—their own and others. They are giving and inquisitive
young women and men eager to learn and equally eager to help and support each
other. In the vernacular of the day, they have each other’s back.
Following their Overbrook success, they are heading for academic pursuits in two
and four year colleges, looking to enter the business world, planning on becoming
chefs, looking forward to living with their families or in a structured environment or
on their own.
The graduation speeches by Ayanna Dickerson and Tashea White at Commencement
attest to how thoughtful, well spoken, and serious these graduates are.
Inspired by the words and deeds of Audrey Hepburn, the actress who became
known for her work on behalf of children and who said, “Nothing is impossible, the
word itself says, ‘I’m possible!’”Ayanna and Tashea developed their own thoughts,
shared some of their personal history, and ruminated about the future that awaits
them.
Excerpts from the speeches
Quoting the historian G.M. Trevelyan—“Never tell a young person that anything
cannot be done. God may have been waiting centuries for someone ignorant enough
of the impossible to do that very thing”— Ayanna declared:
“We are young, and opportunities are limitless; do not let impossibility be the
reason that we do not succeed. In my young life, I have come to know so many
inspirational figures who have done the impossible, and if they have nothing else in
common, each one succeeded in setting aside their fears and reaching for their
goals.”
Tashea expressed herself with equal fervor:
“Here stands a group of young men and women who are confronted with the
impossible every day, but we have learned that support, friendship, hope, and
perseverance are the perfect tools to break down walls and pave new paths
throughout life. Confronting the impossible is both frustrating and frightening, but
we stand here willing to redefine and rearrange.
“We leave here today saying, singing, and shouting . . . We are possible. You are
possible. I am possible.”
Laughter, Tears, and Joy
[The five pictures that accompany the lead article, are explained in the paragraph
below. In addition, there is a picture of the Distinguished Alumnus standing in the
Executive Director’s office with the caption: (left to right) Executive Director Gerald
Kitzhoffer, Distinguished Alumnus Michael Patterson, and the OSB Board President
Warwick S. Wheeler.]
Although there were eyes brimming with tears during and after the speeches,
sadness upon leaving Overbrook from the graduates and maybe even more from
their families, teachers, and paraprofessionals, laughter and joy ruled.
Look at the picture taken before the graduates danced their way off the stage with
the school mascot. Yes, danced. That was how they planned to exit. It’s what they
practiced and how they see themselves. There also is the picture of Tyler Adams’s
pleasure at all that he’s accomplished. Look at the smile on Reina Hernandez’s
face—the look that everyone at Overbrook associates with her. Enjoy the sight of
Sara Knapko’s good natured confidence when she takes charge of the microphone.
And enjoy the contented tiredness of Sabot, Kassandra Hernandez’s guide dog, as he
rests his head on her. (Kasandra is the first OSB student to have a guide dog on
campus prior to graduation. She knew it was possible.)
Distinguished Alumni Award
Michael Patterson, class of 1975, who is described as “a quiet, helpful person, and a
hard worker” by those who know him, was recognized at this year’s Commencement
for his long and successful career as well as his dedication to our school and the
Alumni Association with the presentation of the Distinguished Alumni Award.
Speaking to the 21 members of the class of 2013, Mr. Patterson urged them to work
for success, always doing their best, rising above adversity, learning from mistakes,
taking all opportunities to continue to learn throughout their lives, and finding their
place in the world. Noting that success for their generation might look different from
success as experienced in his generation, he commended them on all that they have
achieved thus far and urged them never to stop striving.
Mr. Patterson earned an Associate’s Degree from Pierce Junior College and a
Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration (with a minor in Accounting) at St.
Joseph’s University. He is currently employed by the U.S. Department of Defense
where he has worked for the past 31 years and has been the recipient of several
prestigious service awards.
Since 1988 he has been the Treasurer of the Overbrook Alumni Association. He is
also Treasurer of the Philadelphia Area Blind Bowlers Association and President of
the Delaware Valley Blind Bowlers Association.
Congratulations on all of your successes, Mr. Patterson!
Executive Director’s Message
By Gerald Kitzhoffer
Graduates, congratulations to you and your families. The successful completion of
your Overbrook education is a major accomplishment for everyone involved; and
with that thought in mind, your teachers, paraprofessionals, and therapists are also
to be congratulated.
But breaking with tradition, I don’t want to talk to you right now. Instead, I want to
direct this message to the many people reading this newsletter who have not met
you, who probably don’t know our education staff, perhaps have never been on our
campus or even in Philadelphia—to tell them a bit more about you and the many
ways that you matter.
You have won awards for your efforts and successes as athletes and students; your
performance in choir and bell choir; for positive attitudes and good citizenship; and
for the polishing and deepening of independent living skills. Now, I would like to try
to share with everyone some of what makes you special and unique based on my
personal interaction, as Executive Director, with you.
Here then, for all of our readers, is another view of the class of 2013:
Nahfis has a wonderful grin and infectious smile. He takes his life as a student, a
worker, an athlete, and a man very seriously, but he wears that seriousness lightly.
On his way to the Hiram G. Andrews Center in Johnstown, Cambria County,
Pennsylvania for the business enterprise program, Nahfis is funny, engaging, and
liked by all.
Nygea is also on her way to Hiram G. Andrews. Looking forward to the culinary arts
program, she hopes eventually to own her own bakery. She is an eager and
confident woman whose smile and good humor can fill a room.
Tashea has been attending Delaware County Community College and plans to
continue her studies there. Her seriousness and determination is complemented by
a dry sense of humor and a great deal of talent. With her quiet and calming
presence, she is a natural leader, liked and looked up to by all who know her. Tashea
was honored for her sports abilities by the Philadelphia Phillies in May.
Douglas, who was also recognized by the Phillies in May, says that what he will miss
most about Overbrook is how helpful people are. It’s a pleasure to note that Doug is
part of that dynamic—always ready to help out a friend, always prepared to forge
new friendships, and modestly eager to assist new students as they learn their way
around. He is bilingual and interested in working in real estate.
Ebony has been at Overbrook for 17 years. During that time she has grown into a
quietly poised woman engaged with the people around her and the opportunities
that Overbrook provides. Her first teacher at Overbrook was our present High
School Coordinator, Helene Marano. Ebony is looking forward to attending Blind
Industries and Services of Maryland’s comprehensive CORE training program.
Ashley came to Overbrook through the Early Intervention Outreach program. She
enjoys working and loves to have her picture taken. She is an artist whose works
have sold at the American Printing House for the Blind and also at our school’s craft
shows.
Leah has worked at the Edgemont Country Club and plans to continue working
there while pursuing further job training. She came to Overbrook two years ago to
refine her independent living skills. An avid golfer she was the winner in a blind golf
tournament at the Philmont Country Club.
One of Elizabeth’s goals is to become a math teacher. Toward that end, she has been
attending Delaware County Community College since January and is planning to
continue her education there. Outside of school she participates in karate and has
earned her black belt. Friendly and humorous, she loves to spend time with friends
in and outside of school.
Terry came to Overbrook 18 years ago. Since then, he has grown into a happy man
who is a pleasure to be around. Terry works hard, greeting everyone he encounters
with a huge smile. Music class, bowling, and swimming have been among his
favorite activities. He is going to join the residential Overbrook Friedlander
Programs.
Matt has been at Overbrook as a residential student for 10 years. For the past seven
years he has been winning awards from the American Printing House for the Blind
for his drawings. Matt has been spending time developing an interactive game and
writing. He looks forward to attending Hiram G. Andrews to pursue a career in
culinary arts.
Sara has been a member of the Overbrook family since 2008. We will miss her
friendly and outgoing demeanor, and her enthusiastic engagement in all that she
does including music, sports, student council and employment both on and off
campus. I personally will miss her cheerful “Good morning, Mr. Kitzhoffer.”
Tracie has been at Overbrook since she was five years old. Tracie has a talent for
making friends and enjoying life. From the time she met the age requirement, Tracie
was a regular at the annual Prom. She will continue to live at home with family and
plans to enjoy social and cultural events in her community.
Dawon looks forward to attending Hiram G. Andrews to study business. He is an
athlete and a hard worker whose work experience includes assisting in the Early
Childhood Program. Outside Overbrook he worked as a promoter for a teenage
dance club. Among other awards, Dawon received the Harrison Prize for Off Campus
Work.
David is going to work at APS Production Company. Off campus he has worked at
Susquehanna Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. On campus, at the
Aquatic Center, Snack Bar, Paw Print Shop, and the cafeteria and housekeeping
departments. Always cheerful when delivering newspapers on campus and
consistently accommodating, David will be missed.
A woman of many interests, Reina might pursue a career as veterinary assistant or
recreational therapist. Regardless of where she lands, for now she will put her
energies into taking classes at Community College of Philadelphia. She has been an
eager participant in OSB extracurricular activities, work experiences, and
independent living programs. She has been recognized for good citizenship by the
DAR and Union League of Philadelphia.
In addition to her music and athletic involvement on campus, Kassandra competes
in goalball on a national level with teams from Georgia and Pennsylvania. She is the
first OSB student to train to have a guide dog on campus. She and Sabot, her guide
dog, plan to be together for a long time. This year, Kassandra has been attending
Delaware County Community College and plans to continue studying there.
Steven will continue to develop his work skills at Creative Works in Ardmore and to
live with his family. He has been a consistently positive presence campus wide
through his work on behalf of the recycling program, mail delivery, and Cody’s café.
He was a regular participant in off campus shopping trips and volunteer
opportunities.
On the road to earning a degree in psychology, Ayanna plans to start at Community
College. Eventually, she looks forward to working as a counselor. She credits the
Transition Vocational Initiative with helping her to develop a positive outlook for
the future and teaching her that there are many different types of job opportunities
for people who are blind.
Shawn, who has been at Overbrook since he was three years old, will continue to
live at St. Edmonds and spend time with family. In the fall, he will transfer to Divine
Providence Village, participating in leisure and social activities. We will miss his
good natured engagement with life.
Charles has also been at Overbrook since he was three. Fondly known as Chuckie, he
has worked hard in the classroom and enjoyed our various social events. He will
continue to live at home with family and is applying to Bonhomie Adult Day
Services.
Tyler, who has been at Overbrook since 1994, has worked diligently on his social
and independent skills, and the hard work shows in his excellent work skills.
Whether delivering newspapers, collecting shredded material, folding towels for the
Aquatic Center, or making deliveries for Cody’s café, Tyler is always a welcome and
needed presence. He plans to live with his family and attend a day program near
home.
So, there they are, the 21 young women and men who are the class of 2013. I feel
privileged to know them and look forward to the possibility that they will return to
campus as alumnae and alumni. OSB has done all it can to enrich their lives and they
have done much to enrich the lives of the Overbrook community.
Presenting the Class of 2013 [Pictures of each graduate wearing cap and gown]
All of us in the Overbrook School for the Blind community wish you continued
success, good fortune, and happiness. Although we will miss you, we are also proud
of your accomplishments and your ability to move forward.
Congratulations!
Tyler Adams
Charles Bonnert
Shawn Cox
Ayanna Dickerson
Steven Frisoli
Dawon James
Matt Koch
Kassandra Hernandez
Reina Hernandez
David Holz
Tracie Kirksey
Sara Knapko
Terry Lyles
Elizabeth Messaros
Leah Mullaly
Ebony Sapp
Ashley Shaller
Douglas Trinidad
Nygea Williams
Tashea White
Nahfis Wright
It’s a Celebration! [Pictures of each child]
The Early Childhood Program (part of OSB’s Early Intervention Program) celebrates
the success of the students leaving Early Intervention. Some are moving on to new
adventures and challenges elsewhere and others will continue to enjoy the benefits
of an OSB education in our Elementary Program. We are proud of all of you and
congratulate you and your families on a job well done.
Jason Allen
Angel Alston
Sydney Arter
Emily Bennett
Tasheen Brice
Anelys Castillo
John Elliott
Nicholas Esposito
N’Rae Fennell-Ponds
Phinees Fortson
Janae Free
Nasir Gaston
Mari Gilbert
Hannah Gray
Cynthia Lemar
Savanna Macon
Jeremiah Manigault
John Carlos Moya-Guzman
Zaila Redden
Eliezer Reyes-Reyes
Dymir Townsend
Sunny Zhang
Overbrook School for the Blind School Calendar, August 2013–Summer 2014
2013
August
Wednesday, 8/28
Teachers, aides and houseparents return
In-service day, 8:30 a.m.
Thursday, 8/29
Professional Development Day
Friday, 8/30
No school for instructional staff
September
Tuesday, 9/3
First day of school for all OSB students
October
Friday, 10/11
Parents’ Day—PTA meeting
Long weekend begins at end of school day
Monday, 10/14
Columbus Day
No school for students and instructional staff
Tuesday, 10/15
All students return. Classes resume at 8:15 a.m.
Thursday, 10/31
End of first quarter grading period
Long weekend begins at end of school day
November
Friday, 11/1
Professional Development Day. No school for students.
Monday, 11/4
All students return. Classes resume at 9:00 a.m.
Wednesday, 11/27
Long weekend begins at end of school day
Thursday, 11/28
Thanksgiving Holiday, school closed
Friday, 11/29
School closed
December
Monday, 12/2
All students return. Classes resume at 9:00 a.m.
Thursday, 12/12
Holiday Concert, 7:00 p.m., Auditorium, Public invited
Thursday, 12/19
Early Childhood Winter Program, 10:00 a.m.,
Auditorium, Public Invited
Thursday, 12/20
Winter Vacation begins at the end of school day
2014
January
Thursday, 1/2
All students return. Classes resume at 8:15 a.m.
Friday, 1/17
12:00 p.m. dismissal for students
Professional Day in afternoon for staff
End of first semester grading period
Long weekend begins at end of school day
Monday, 1/20
MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY, school closed
Tuesday, 1/21
All students return. Classes resume at 8:15 a.m.
February
Friday, 2/7
Interim Awards Assembly
Friday, 2/14
Long weekend begins at end of school day
Monday, 2/17
PRESIDENT’S DAY, no school for students and
instructional staff
Friday, 2/28
Long weekend begins at end of school day
March
Monday, 3/3
Professional Development Day. No school for students.
Tuesday, 3/4
All students return. Classes resume at 8:15 a.m.
Friday, 3/21
12:00 p.m. dismissal for students
Professional Day in afternoon for staff
April
Friday, 4/11
SPRING VACATION begins at end of school day
Monday, 4/14–Friday, 4/18
SPRING VACATION
Monday, 4/21
All students return. Classes resume at 9:00 a.m.
MAY
Thursday, 5/15
Spring Concert, 7:00 p.m., public invited
Friday, 5/23
Long weekend begins at end of school day
Monday, 5/26
MEMORIAL DAY, school closed
Tuesday, 5/27
All students return. Classes resume at 8:15 a.m.
Friday, 5/30
Achievement Day, 9:00 a.m., Auditorium
JUNE
Monday, 6/2
Fun Day for all educational programs
Wednesday, 6/4
Commencement, 9:30 a.m., Auditorium
Friday, 6/6
Early Childhood Summer Celebration, 10:00 a.m., Auditorium
Monday, 6/9
Middle School Moving Up Celebration, 11:30 a.m.,
Nevil Center Multi-Purpose Room
Tuesday, 6/10
Elementary Program Moving Up Celebration,10:00 a.m., Auditorium
Monday, 6/9–Wednesday, 6/11
Early Intervention Summer Workshop
Friday, 6/13
12:00 p.m. dismissal for students
Professional Day in afternoon for staff
Last day for students and instructional staff
Friday, 6/13–Sunday, 6/15
Alumni Weekend
SUMMER DATES
Monday, 6/30–Thursday, 8/7
Early Childhood Summer Program
Program runs Mondays—Thursdays, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Friday, 7/4
Independence Day Observed, school closed
Tuesday, 7/1–Thursday, 8/7
ESY Program
Program runs Tuesdays—Thursdays, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Sunday, 7/6–Friday, 7/18
Transition Vocational Initiative (TVI) Program
Overbrook School for the Blind
Board of Managers 2013–2014
President
Warwick S. Wheeler
Vice Presidents
Robert D’Anjolell
Robert B. Gallant
J. Freedley Hunsicker, Jr., Esq.
Marjorie G. Stein
Treasurer
F. Howard Braithwaite
Secretary
Elizabeth (Pooh) Gephart
Alumni Representative
Elizabeth Passanante
Parents’ Representative
John P. Dougherty
Members
Joseph T. Doyle, Jr.
Carolyn Friedman
Peggy Garrett
John Goldschmidt
Andrea Johnson
Vince McVeigh
Robert Pratter
Sid Rosenblatt
David Ross
George Vermeire, D.O.
Angela Zager
OSB Executive Director
Gerald Kitzhoffer
Mission Statement
The mission of Overbrook School for the Blind is to develop and deliver education
that enhances the options available for persons with visual impairments and other
challenges so that they have the greatest opportunity to experience active and
fulfilling lives.
Vision Statement
The vision of Overbrook School for the Blind is to be a dynamic and responsive
educational organization, providing leadership as a local, national and international
resource, inspiring individuals with visual impairments and other challenges to
achieve their highest potential.