Homecoming and Reunion Weekend 2025 kicked off on Friday, October 17, with a Varsity Girls' Field Hockey game against Lawrenceville. Pennington won 5-0, setting the tone for the festivities to follow.

As the day turned to evening, the Class of 1975 gathered at Emily's Cafe in Pennington for a special, 50th reunion dinner, while the other reunion classes ending in 0s and 5s celebrated on Reunion Row. They enjoyed delicious barbecue and drinks behind the faculty houses that line West Delaware Avenue while talking around the bonfires. The class with the highest attendance at the Brews and Barbecue won the annual contest for a free round of drinks just down the road at Wildflowers Inn. This year, it was the Class of 1990!

Students celebrated in Sparks Memorial Gymnasium at a rousing Pep Rally. Athletic teams and clubs each took turns performing for the excited crowd. A highlight was the tug of war that even had a number of faculty and staff members participate.

On Saturday, October 18, a spectacular day, sunny and warm, began with the Head of School breakfast, where Dr. Hawkey presented his "state of the School" address with updates about all that is going on this year on campus. He also introduced the alumni awards; see below. 

Alumni Awards

During Homecoming and Reunion Weekend, The Pennington School recognized select alumni for their service and accomplishments. Those honored this year are listed below.

Outstanding Young Alumni Award

Dr. Ashley Disbrow Hood ’10 has a distinguished career that spans the fields of astrophysics, environmental science, and aerospace engineering. With a PhD in astrophysics, she has applied her expertise as a health physicist at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ashley remains connected to Pennington, speaking to STEM students in the School’s Applied Science Certificate Program.

Alumni Achievement Award

Chief Stephen Pegram ’90 has spent more than 36 years in fire and emergency services, rising through the ranks to serve as chief in both volunteer and career departments. He is now the co-owner of S3D Public Safety Consulting, while also serving as the interim fire and EMS chief for Harlan Township, Ohio. A recognized national leader, he received the International Association of Fire Chiefs President’s Award in 2021 and was named Fire Chief of the Year for the Great Lakes Region in 2022.

Community Service Award

Dr. Monique Richards Smith ’95 is the director of global regulatory affairs labeling strategy at Daiichi Sankyo, Inc., where she leads cross-functional teams in developing global labeling strategies for oncology, hematology, and rare disease products. A purpose-driven executive and advocate for health equity, she has helped global teams accelerate submissions, elevate patient voice in decision-making, and strengthen trust across stakeholders, building more inclusive, impact-driven cultures in the pharmaceutical industry.

Athletic Hall of Fame Awards

George Goodell, Jr. ’65 was a nine-time letter winner at Pennington, excelling in basketball, cross country, soccer, and especially baseball. As a pitcher, he went undefeated his senior year with an 11-0 record before continuing his career at Temple University, Nichols College, and in semi-pro ball. His versatility, competitiveness, and team-first spirit made him a true embodiment of Pennington athletics.

Kaitlyn Kerr ’10 was a three-sport athlete at Pennington, excelling in soccer and basketball, where her talent, leadership, and competitiveness powered her teams to county and state championships. Following Pennington, soccer took her to Duke University, where she became an All-American. After college, she continued to break new ground—helping launch a Major League Pickleball franchise, hosting her own podcast, and excelling as a financial advisor at J.P. Morgan.

A two-sport standout at Pennington, Renee Washington ’10 was a fierce competitor who led her teams to county and state championships in both soccer and basketball, earning All-Prep and All-State honors along the way. After a record-setting career at La Salle University and time spent as a professional soccer player, she has built a successful broadcasting career, now serving as a multi-platform host with Front Office Sports.

Coach Blair Thompson has been a cornerstone of Pennington football and the Mercer County athletic community for more than four decades. Known for his wit, wisdom, and unforgettable storytelling, he has inspired generations of athletes and colleagues, while leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond the field.

Following the Alumni Awards, there was a special Order of the Tower award presentation. Blair Thompson, who retired from teaching English just last year but still coaches football, was this year's recipient. The Tower Award is the School’s highest honor, recognizing alumni, teachers, or friends for outstanding service to The Pennington School or to the wider community.

Highlights from Saturday included an exhibit by watercolorist James Fiorentino in the Silva Gallery of Art, student groups offering a wide variety of snacks and gifts at Homecoming Row, a Parents for Pennington tailgate in the dining hall, the All-Alumni party at Corson House, and a special party to celebrate the Class of 2020, who missed a live Commencement ceremony that year because of Covid-19. It was wonderful to see so many people back to campus to renew friendships, visit the campus, and toast their Pennington memories.

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