Liam McCarthy P’25
President, Executive Committee, Buildings + Grounds Committee,
Long-Range Planning Committee, Head of School Evaluation + Support Committee
//at a glance
Liam is a shareholder in the law firm Crowley & McCarthy, P.C., and is its Managing Partner. For 25 years, he has represented insurers in property insurance coverage and subrogation matters in courts throughout New England, and he is admitted to practice in all six states. In his practice, Liam has served as a Referee, Appraiser, and Umpire in property insurance disputes; regularly acted as a mediator; and been retained as an expert witness on insurance claims handling procedures. Liam has been a frequent speaker to insurance company trade groups on topics related to insurance coverage and fire investigation.
He is a member of the International Association of Arson Investigators, and has served on the Board of Directors and as President of its Massachusetts Chapter, as well as previously serving on the Board of Directors of the New England Chapter of the National Association of Subrogation Professionals.
//what GUS means to me
GUS truly represents what education can be and what community can provide. My son came to GUS in 2nd grade and has grown, by his GUS experience, into an interested, engaged, and eager learner who is curious about the world and ready to try everything it has to offer. His growth is testament to the interest, care, and skill of the faculty and staff, but also to the commitment of his classmates and the GUS community as a whole to the institution and its work.
//what makes Liam, Liam
Although I grew up in New England, and attended the same high school as my grandmother, I was born in California. I like planning vacations more than I like taking them, with the possible exception of regular family trips to Ireland. I am an enthusiastic golfer, but my talent does not match my desire. Ditto for fly fishing. Despite having played baseball in college and other sports in high school, my favorite sport to watch is one I have never played, rugby, and I am happy to talk at length with anyone about it, particularly the successes and failures of Munster, Ireland, and the New England Free Jacks.
Michael Buensuceso
Vice President, Executive Committee
Sarah McGrath '14
Treasurer, Executive Committee, Finance Committee
//at a glance
Sarah graduated from Providence College in 2021 and went on to earn her MBA in 2022. She began her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), where she worked as an auditor and earned her CPA license. After three years in accounting, Sarah made a meaningful career pivot to Roca, Inc., where she now works with street-involved youth. In her role, she supports young people navigating complex challenges and works to help them build safer, more stable futures. Her background in accounting, combined with her commitment to community work, brings a unique perspective to her work.
//what GUS means to me
GUS is rare. At GUS, you receive an excellent education alongside an empathetic, nurturing, and kind community. You are encouraged to say, “I don’t know,” to ask questions, and to remain curious. At GUS, you are given the confidence to believe that you really can mean well, speak well, do well, and do better—for yourself, for those close to you, and for the wider world.
Jody King P’11’13
Vice Treasurer, Executive Committee
Michelle Quigley P’26 ’29
Co–Clerk, Executive Committee, Head of School Evaluation + Support Committee, Building & Grounds Committee
Parents’ Association
Executive Board Communications Co–Chair + Room Parent
//at a glance
Michelle’s background is in labor and employment and workplace law. She’s had a variety of roles from attorney, Director of HR and Legal to personal trainer and Triathlon coach. She is currently the Director of Legal Operations at AppleTree Legal, LLC, a law firm representing non-profits and mission-driven organizations. She joined the Board in 2024, bringing her collaborative approach to building a culture of trust and belonging centered in respect, clarity, and integrity. As a coach from both the professional and athletic worlds, she believes in setting goals, mapping out a plan for success and celebrating accomplishments along the way.
//what GUS means to me
The GUS mission starts with joy, and that is what GUS has brought to our family. GUS truly partners with us to support our children’s academic and social-emotional development. Our children are well-known by the faculty and staff and are genuinely loved. This supportive environment enables our children to be themselves, take risks, ask questions, and be challenged every day. GUS has become a valuable part of our community. We are grateful for how the school lives out its values, for its impact in Beverly and beyond, and for its contribution to the kind, curious, intelligent and responsible characters of our GUS kids!
//what makes Michelle, Michelle
Michelle lives in Beverly with her husband, Brian, children Clara and Declan, dog Ariel, and cat Lola. She is most joyful when she is active or intellectually engaged with a challenge. She loves creating memories with family, adventures in warm climates, doing all the various crosswords and puzzles available these days, and volunteering anywhere she can be of use. She’s an avid audio book listener of any genre except horror and is always looking for recommendations!
Anjali Chitre P’26 ’28 ’33
//at a glance
Anjali is the Managing Director & Deputy Chief Counsel of Private Markets at John Hancock/Manulife Financial, leading a team of global attorneys. She provides legal counsel to the Manulife Investment Management private markets, real estate, and private equity and credit business lines. Prior to joining Manulife, Anjali was in private practice at the Boston office of the law firm of Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale & Dorr LLP. Earlier in her career, she was a corporate banking analyst and strategic marketing and communications manager at FleetBoston Financial.
Anjali joined the Board in 2022 and brings non-profit board experience by serving for six years on the Board of Trustees for The Home for Little Wanderers, the nation’s oldest child welfare agency, where she was Chair of the Risk and Governance Committee. Anjali has also served on the Boards of the South Asian Bar Association and The Network of South Asian Professionals.
//what GUS means to me
To our family, GUS means a nurturing environment, magical experiences, dedicated faculty and staff, strong community, and exceptional education. When my daughters head off to school each day, I know that their worlds are being expanded, their minds are being challenged, their selves are being empowered, and their voices are being heard. There is no greater feeling.
//what makes Anjali, Anjali
Anjali lives in Hamilton with her three daughters and her husband, Yash. A native of Pennsylvania, Anjali feels most happy amongst the trees and mountains. She enjoys spending time reading, cooking, talking politics and planning international travel, sprinkled with a healthy dose of true crime documentary binge-watching.
Amy Crafton P’21 ’23 ’27
//at a glance
Amy has been involved in marketing and fundraising in the arts and non-profit sector for 25 years, spending much of her early career in the performing arts, at Boston Ballet. She has also worked both on the Board and on staff at North Shore based non-profit Change is Simple which allowed her to focus on her interest in sustainability, and more recently took on a role in Development at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University. She has enjoyed working on the PA at GUS and now in her role on the Board of Trustees brings her background in fundraising and sustainability to the committees she serves on. She has three boys, two who graduated (Max and Henry) and one currently in upper school (George).
//what GUS means to me
GUS has always felt so aligned with my values. I appreciate so much how GUS infuses a love of nature, the arts and humanities into the curriculum, and the way students are seen, heard and valued. The empathy instilled in them, the understanding and compassion for world and local issues, people and events is so impactful. Through the GUS curriculum, beyond the regular subjects that are taught so well, students come away with a true sense of belonging and self. Thematic learning helps students to frame subjects in a clearer way and connect living and learning so uniquely. I have met the most wonderful people at and through GUS. Students here learn to speak up, speak well and as the motto says - do better.
//what makes Amy, Amy
Amy majored in Studio Art (and business) in college, and rekindled her love of the fine arts as a painter of places she loves – seascapes, landscapes as well as still life – as an adult. She has loved showing her work at GUS, and in other places in and around Boston and the North Shore. Amy grew up in England, still calling that one of her homes, and loves to travel - especially in Europe. She practices yoga (RYT200), pilates, and runs; she loves time outdoors in nature (with kids whenever possible), visiting museums, hosting and planning, and wishes she had more opportunities to sing and dance which she currently does mostly around her house.
Crystal DaCruz '98
//at a glance
Crystal DaCruz is a proud alumna of GUS, where the formative education she received in grades 4-8 built her confidence, sparked her curiosity, and made her feel included—experiences that laid the foundation for her personal growth. Today, as a member of the GUS Board of Trustees, Crystal is dedicated to fostering the same sense of possibility and inclusivity that profoundly influenced her own life.
Crystal is the founder of Boxed in Black, a luxury gifting company she created after years in the corporate gift card industry. Seeking more purpose in her work, she built a business that approaches gifting in a personal way, while supporting diverse brands. Her work at Boxed in Black reflects her passion for entrepreneurship and creating meaningful connections. Crystal also serves on the Board of Directors for SEED Corp, helping entrepreneurs overcome barriers to traditional funding and foster economic growth.
Crystal’s work reflects her deep belief in the power of education and entrepreneurship to drive personal growth, create opportunities, and build stronger communities.
//what GUS means to me
GUS taught me how to think critically, lead with purpose, and approach challenges creatively. It’s a place that values individuality while building a strong sense of community. GUS kids are bold thinkers and compassionate doers, they’re equipped not just to succeed, but to contribute meaningfully to the world.
Serving on the GUS Board of Trustees is my way of giving back to the school that helped shape my journey. I’m honored to be part of ensuring future students have access to the same education and experience that inspired me to lead and grow.
//what makes Crystal, Crystal?
Crystal is driven by the belief that everyone has the potential to thrive when they are equipped with the right resources and a strong foundation. As a mother, entrepreneur, and creative, she is passionate about creating opportunities where people can grow, learn, and reach their full potential.
Living in Rhode Island with her children, Crystal enjoys cooking and hosting, activities that bring her joy and allow her to connect with her family.
Leslie Marchesseault P’91, ’97
//at a glance
Leslie was an educator for over 50 years first in New Jersey, then Rhode Island and for the last forty-five years in Massachusetts. With degrees in Early Childhood Education and Child Development and Family Relations, Leslie spent the majority of her time in preschool and elementary classrooms, and for 25 years at GUS, first as a second-grade teacher and finally, in the admission office. GUS was the peak of her career, spending time in a school that perfectly fit her philosophy about children and education.
//what GUS means to me
I spent many years at GUS, first as a parent, then as a teacher, summer camp director, founder of GAIN@GUS, and Admission Director. I loved my work there. My husband and I both appreciated the school’s emphasis on developing community, caring for the outdoors, and experiential learning based on firsthand experiences outside of the classroom. GUS was a young school when we joined, and it has been a joy to see the school grow and prosper. I do see Glen Urquhart as a special school that lives its mission, encouraging children in ways that enable them to become confident, smart adults who feel a commitment to have a positive influence in the world.
Greg Meahl
//at a glance
Greg is a Partner at Baystate Financial which is a 120-year-old financial services firm located in Boston. Baystate has over 300 financial advisors and fee-based planners that provide financial guidance and wealth management to over 300,000 clients across New England. Baystate has been recognized multiple times as one of the” Best Places to Work” by the Boston Globe, Boston Business Journal and others.
Greg joined the GUS Board in 2022 after 10 years on the Beverly YMCA board having served as President. He currently is also on the Board of the Massachusetts Police Activities League.
//what GUS means to me
The embodiment of the “whole person” concept where environment, faculty and leaning come together to position the next generation for the challenges that lie ahead. Empowering kids to think critically and challenge themselves.
//what makes Greg, Greg
Greg lives in Beverly with his wife Maggie. Their three kids are launched with two in Boston and one in NYC. Greg and Maggie enjoy traveling and can often be found playing golf and enjoying the company of great friends and family.
Joan Rosenthal P’12, GP’33, ’34, ’36
//at a glance
Joan Rosenthal is a proud champion of the GUS community, bringing a deep, multi-generational connection to her role on the Board of Trustees. Her journey with the school began decades ago when her son, Alex, attended, and that legacy continues today with three of her grandchildren currently enrolled. Witnessing firsthand the enduring quality of education across generations inspires her commitment to school governance. Joan dedicates her time to ensuring GUS remains a nurturing, innovative environment where every child thrives academically and emotionally.
//what GUS means to me
For me, GUS is the foundational bedrock of my family's values, growth, and happiest memories. It brings our motto—Mean Well, Speak Well, Do Well—to life every single day by shaping both my son and grandchildren into compassionate leaders who act with integrity.
Emily Grimes P’29 ’32 ’34
Long-Range Planning Committee
//at a glance
A seasoned marketing leader, Emily has helped build and grow brands across a broad array of industries by building strong, lasting relationships and employing insight-driven, customer-centric strategies. After over 15 years of marketing and advertising agency experience in client service and strategy, Emily determined she was ready to dedicate her time to one organization and is currently serving as Director of Marketing at BOND Civil & Utility Construction. In her role, she leads efforts to scale the business and support the sales pursuit process through marketing, public relations, market research, branding, and strategic planning. She’s also steering initiatives geared toward strategically positioning BOND in key markets, supporting all existing business and relationships, and driving new sector goals.
Emily joined the Board in 2024 after serving two years as Co–President of the GUS Parents’ Association, where she continues to serve on the Executive Committee. She also serves on the Boards of The Hamilton-Wenham Community House, Christ Church Parish Day School, and the Hamilton-Wenham Garden Club.
//what GUS means to me
GUS's unwavering commitment to centering everything around students cultivates an environment where they are truly seen, heard, and supported. Students are encouraged to be their best selves, not just academically, but as well-rounded individuals. They’re given the freedom to explore their unique strengths and passions, and the guidance to grow into confident, kind, capable people. GUS goes beyond traditional academia, emphasizing the importance of building strong values and character alongside academic excellence. Students learn the importance of integrity, empathy, and leadership, preparing them not only for future success but also for meaningful contributions to the world around them.
//what makes Emily, Emily?
Emily lives in Hamilton with her husband, two daughters, one son, and a rescue pup. An old soul trapped in a millennial’s body, Emily enjoys tending to her various gardens, whipping up meals for her family, listening to music, watching sports, and reading anything in print, whenever possible.
Kim Ridley
//at a glance
Dr. Kimberly Ridley is the Head of Fayerweather Street School, a progressive PreK–8 independent school in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She leads with a deep commitment to fostering joyful learning, equity, and belonging, ensuring that every student is known, valued, and challenged.
A former school and clinical psychologist, Dr. Ridley brings a reflective, relational approach to leadership, grounded in emotional intelligence and empathy. Her work focuses on strengthening Fayerweather’s experiential learning model, advancing institutional equity, and supporting educators in creating environments where curiosity and connection thrive.
Dr. Ridley earned her B.A. in Psychology from Spelman College and her M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical-School Psychology from The Derner Institute of Psychological Studies at Adelphi University. She also completed the Executive Coaching Program at the Teleos Leadership Institute.
Andrea Toulouse P'24
Finance Committee
//at a glance
Andrea is an Equity Partner and Chair of the Real Estate Department at Rubin and Rudman, LLP in Boston, Massachusetts. She practices in all areas of commercial real estate, including acquisition, development, financing, and leasing for a broad range of developers and financiers of commercial properties at a local, regional and national level. Her practice encompasses industrial properties, educational uses, suburban office parks, and downtown office buildings.
As Vice President and later President of the GUS Parents Association, Andrea was the Parents Association liaison to the Board of Trustees in 2020, before joining the Board as a Trustee in 2021. She is a former member of the Planning Board for the City of Beverly, served on the Steering Committee for Plan Beverly, and was a member of the Amicus Committee for the Massachusetts Civil Liberties Union.
//what GUS means to me
GUS means growth in all areas - curiosity, confidence, and a willingness to take on academic challenges. Our son thrived while at GUS, both academically and emotionally. His creativity was nurtured as much as his intellect, and he left GUS ready for a new set of challenges and adventures.
//what makes Andrea, Andrea
Andrea and her husband Dan live in Beverly with their recent GUS graduate, Malcolm (now at Pingree), and very sweet poodle, Teddy. She loves spending time with her friends, running, and has a somewhat unhealthy (for her) interest in the fate of the Buffalo Bills.