Centering on Wellness

Over the summer, St. Mark’s counseling office underwent a transformation that included a renovated office, a new team member and a rebranded name: The Marksman Wellness Center. This transformation is a continuation of the counseling department’s evolution over the past few years, which has seen the team grow and extend their services across campus.  

 

“St. Mark’s has always prioritized the education and care of the whole boy, and the Marksman Wellness Center rebranding is a direct reflection of that priority,” said Dr. Gabby Reed, director of Marksman Wellness. “Our department is about much more than just counseling. We help boys thrive academically, we teach them the skills they need to be healthy and happy, and we are there for them when they need social or emotional support.” 

 

Over the past few years, the counseling program has grown in number and expanded across campus. Reed now leads the program and works directly with Middle School boys. With the addition of Dr. Mary Bonsu as Upper School counselor and Bridget Redondo-Doan as Lower School counselor, St. Mark’s began the 2021–2022 school year with a dedicated counselor in each division. Julie Pechersky's title was updated to Director of Academic Success to better represent the work she does helping Marksmen reach their full potential in the classroom.  

 

This year, the team also added a brand new position – the Academic Wellness Specialist – filled by Eliza Rosenbloom who holds a master's degree in social work with a mental health concentration. In this new role, Rosenbloom will provide individual intervention for students in academic need, consult with parents on the academic success of their sons and collaborate with faculty on learning issues that impact a student's performance in the classroom.  

 

“Our expanded team and resources are going to help us continue growing our mission of helping each boy thrive,” Reed said. “I’m excited for this year to see our students further embrace Marksman Wellness as a sanctuary on campus – a place where they can always find compassionate support.”