“The most meaningful experiences have been seeing students make extraordinary leaps in their work and personal development through art,” Upper School (US) Visual Arts Teacher Laura Tangusso said. After 32 years in the Arts Department, she is retiring.

    Ms. Tangusso said her stay was longer than she expected.

    “I took the job thinking it would just be for a few years, but discovered pretty quickly that I really enjoyed teaching and that teaching itself is a creative process,” she said. “Plus, the students were so engaging and fun to work with in the studios.”

    Over time, Ms. Tangusso’s involvement extended beyond the classroom. She served as the arts department chair for six years and founded the Eco Reps program and the annual Hand + Heart Charity Auction. She also coordinated the Petropoulos program.

    “I’ll miss being part of an art department, sharing our experiences and the work our students do, and that which I came here for in the first place: the long-term relationships with students,” Ms. Tangusso said.

    After leaving, Ms. Tangusso said she plans to continue her career in art and the environment.

    “I’ve always had dual interests in art and nature, so for the past two years I’ve been training to become a wildlife rehabilitator and plan to take the state test this summer to be certified,” she said. “I’m looking forward to developing my tai chi practice too, doing my own artwork and just generally having more time for friends and family.”

    Anya Lundberg ’28 was in Ms. Tangusso’s architecture class this year.

    “She really did solidify my passion for architecture,” Anya said. “There have been times when, even during lunches or a free period, I’ve gone up there just to work on my project a bit more.”

    She said Ms. Tangusso’s help goes beyond class.

    “I even go up there just to chat with Ms. Tangusso when I work,” Anya said. “She’s a really sweet person. She has given me a good moral path on how to go about life. I’m really sad to see her leave.”