[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 22 (Monday, February 3, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Pages S541-S542]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    REMEMBERING DAVID KENDALL PIERCE

  Mr. WELCH. Mr. President, on January 14, 2025, Norwich, VT, lost a 
beloved member of one of the town's oldest farming families.
  David Pierce grew up on a small dairy farm on a hill with a view down 
the valley, less than a mile from Dan & Whit's General Store in the 
center of town. His father, known by all as ``Bub,'' was the farmer. 
His mother Janet cared for David and his sister Deb and took in other 
children when their parents were out of town, as well as tending to her 
big vegetable garden. She later became long-time town clerk of Norwich.
  David attended the local Norwich elementary school through eighth 
grade when he went across the river to Hanover High in Hanover, NH. 
From an early age, David spent weekends and summers mowing and baling 
hay and helping with the many chores that come with raising and milking 
cows. Early spring was spent with his father in the maple sugar house. 
After high school, he attended the University of Vermont, where he 
studied physics and did graduate work at nearby Dartmouth College and 
the University of Massachusetts. He went on to teach physics and 
astronomy at Tabor Academy in Marion, MA, for 47 years, while still 
spending summers helping with the mowing and hay baling back in 
Norwich. He was a familiar sight driving the John Deere tractor in 
local

[[Page S542]]

fields and through town, wearing his shiny metal hardhat.
  Soft spoken and not one to promote himself, always genuinely 
interested in others, the depth and breadth of David's academic 
accomplishments and community service were truly remarkable. His impact 
on his students was life changing. The remembrance of David by Tony 
Jaccaci, head of Tabor Academy, reminds us of what a lasting, positive 
difference one passionate, dedicated, and exceptionally kind person can 
make to an institution, a community, and to future generations.
  I want to convey my condolences to David's extended family, and I ask 
unanimous consent that Mr. Jaccaci's remembrance of David be printed in 
the Record.
  There being no objection, the material was ordered to be printed in 
the Record, as follows:

                        Remembering David Pierce

       Dear Tabor Community: It is with a sense of loss and 
     profound admiration that I share the passing of former 
     faculty member, David Kendall Pierce. David, a deeply 
     respected member of the Tabor Academy community, pass away 
     peacefully on the morning of January 14, 2025. With a legacy 
     that spanned decades, David's contributions to the School by 
     the Sea--as an educator, mentor, and coach--will long be 
     remembered.
       David joined Tabor Academy in 1973, bringing with him a 
     remarkable passion for education and science. He played an 
     instrumental role in establishing the school's observatory 
     and developing the astronomy program, which allows students 
     to explore celestial phenomena through a state-of-the-art 
     Celestron telescope. As the chair of the Science Department, 
     David transformed the curriculum, introducing innovative 
     courses and fostering a love for critical thinking and 
     inquiry in his classrooms. His leadership and vision extended 
     beyond the classroom, inspiring generations of students to 
     pursue studies and careers in scientific fields.
       Known for his meticulous yet engaging teaching style, David 
     taught Advanced Placement Physics, Advanced Calculus, 
     Astronomy, and Geology, often infusing his lessons with humor 
     and thought-provoking anecdotes. Students recall his ability 
     to make complex concepts accessible and commitment to their 
     potential to achieve excellence. He even authored physics 
     texts and laboratory manuals for use in Tabor classroom, 
     working with students to ensure that all levels of science 
     could understand the concepts.
       Beyond academics, David's dedication extended to coaching 
     and mentoring. As the head coach of the varsity track team, 
     the advisor to the junior varsity riflery team, and the 
     Christian Fellowship Club. He advised the members of the WTBR 
     radio station where he shared his love of 1960s music by 
     hosting a program of oldies hits called, ``A Blast from the 
     Past.'' In addition, he served as a dorm parent in numerous 
     houses, including Hunt House, Lillard Hall, and Daggett 
     House, where he instilled discipline, perseverance, and a 
     sense of community, leaving an indelible mark on Tabor's 
     traditions.
       At Tabor, the David Kendall Pierce Chair Award in Math and 
     Science is awarded to faculty members annually; it was 
     established in his name by Jack Boyd Smith, Jr. '76. Smith 
     wanted to recognize and honor the impact that David had on 
     him while a student at Tabor. Pierce himself was the first 
     holder of the award.
       David's influence was not confined to campus. His 
     dedication to service and professional development was 
     evident in his involvement with the Advanced Placement Math 
     Teachers Association, the Massachusetts Association of 
     Science Supervisors, and the National Science Teachers 
     Association. David's work in advancing the use of technology 
     in science instruction, including presentations on the use of 
     graphing calculators and simulations, positioned Tabor as a 
     leader in STEM education.
       David also shared his love for learning and exploration 
     with students outside the classroom. He participated in trips 
     abroad, including memorable journeys to France and China, 
     offering students unique cultural and educational 
     experiences. Whether navigating the streets of Paris or 
     exploring the Great Wall of China, David's enthusiasm for 
     discovery and connection left lasting impressions on all who 
     traveled with him.
       Beyond Tabor, David's intellectual pursuits and personal 
     interests painted a portrait of a life well-lived. A graduate 
     of the University of Vermont and Dartmouth College, he 
     brought academic rigor and a love of learning to every 
     endeavor. He was a man of diverse talents--quoted sharing 
     insights from figures like Robert Frost, Albert Einstein, and 
     Lewis Carroll--reflecting his philosophical and whimsical 
     approach to life. His talks at the Marion Music Hall and his 
     essays in Tabor publications showcase his ability to engage 
     with the broader community. Beyond his love for our school, 
     David had an incredible passion for civic responsibility and 
     served in numerous roles in Marion town government.
       David's legacy is one of excellence, compassion, and 
     dedication. He believed in the transformative power of 
     education and devoted his life to helping students discover 
     their strengths and passions. Retiring in 2020 after 47 years 
     of service to Tabor yet remaining deeply connected to the 
     School by the Sea, his contributions to Tabor Academy are 
     immeasurable. He wrote a book documenting Tabor's modern 
     history and was a member of the sesquicentennial planning 
     committee up until his passing.
       David Kendall Pierce's life serves as a testament to the 
     profound impact one individual can have on an institution and 
     its people; his memory will remain a guiding light for the 
     community he served. His spirit and the lessons he imparted 
     will continue to resonate through the halls of Tabor Academy 
     for generations to come.
                                                     Tony Jaccaci,
     Head of School.

                          ____________________