Learn More About GAISF
A 50th high school reunion led to the creation of a meaningful scholarship in honor of Gary Atkinson. Find out how you can get involved and support GAISF.
How GAISF Began
As the Ledyard High School (LHS) class of ’73 approached its 50th reunion in 2023, its surviving members established the scholarship as a meaningful way to express gratitude for LHS, while also paying tribute to their fallen classmate, Gary. The scholarship honors his memory by supporting students who embody the virtues he exemplified, such as strong character, leadership, and community-mindedness.
The scholarship’s name, "Imagine," reflects the founders’ desire to celebrate the sentiment Gary embodied: aspiring toward a world where “we all live as one,” as envisioned in John Lennon’s iconic song.
Who was Gary Atkinson?
Gary Atkinson, a Ledyard High School graduate and valedictorian of 1973, was a “born leader” involved in scouting, student council, and stage productions. Voted by classmates as Most Likely to Succeed, Most Intellectual, and Contributed Most to Ledyard High, he studied civil engineering at Washington University and construction management at MIT.
Gary was a Project Executive at Olympia & York, contributing to projects like Canary Wharf in London. An avid sailor, skier, and cyclist, he also joied the arts. In 1988, while returning to Connecticut with his wife, Judy, they tragically perished in the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing over Lockerbie, Scotland.
GAISF Leadership Team
We share an appreciation for the start in life that Ledyard High School gave us, a love for who Gary was and a desire for him to be remembered in a major way.
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Advisor
Edith Brady-Lunny is married to Calvin K. Lunny, a member of the Ledyard High School Class of '73. Edith retired from a career in print journalism in 2019 and currently works part-time as a correspondent for the NPR station associated with Illinois State University. She writes about criminal justice and legal affairs issues.
Edith and Calvin have two sons, Daniel and Mel, who live near them in central Illinois. They are grandparents to 11-year-old twins Henry and Ellison and 6-year old Xander. In their spare time, Edith and Calvin enjoy traveling, often with family, gardening and searching for new specimens for Calvin's extensive rock and mineral collection.
Edith has been a board member for The Write Stuff For Kids Inc. for 21 years. The non-profit organization provides school supplies to students and teachers, and supports classroom projects for all district schools. The organization started the Off and Running Scholarship four years ago for students to attend Richland Community College. Funds are provided to a student who would otherwise be unable to attend or complete the two-year college program.
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Director
Jim Neil, a distinguished 1973 graduate of Ledyard High School, traversed an impressive academic and professional journey that led him to a notable position in public service.
After completing his BA at Long Beach State University and an MA from the University of Rhode Island, Jim furthered his education with a JD from Quinnipiac University, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and excellence.
In his professional life, Jim has served as the Director of Operations for the State of Connecticut, a role that highlights his leadership skills and dedication to public service.
His commitment extends beyond his professional duties, as evidenced by his active involvement in various community service activities. Surpassing the criteria of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, Jim learned early on the importance of contributing to his community. Furthermore, his volunteer work in the Westbrook CT Inland and Wetlands Commission and the CT Shoreline Soup Kitchens and Food Pantry demonstrates his commitment to environmental stewardship and addressing community needs.
Jim's connection to Gary Atkinson, the namesake of the LHS Class of 1973 scholarship, is deeply personal. He remembers Gary as a special individual with a deep intellect, endless curiosity, and a rare empathy towards others. Gary's natural leadership and respect for everyone's strengths, opinions, and dreams left a lasting impact on Jim and many others. Jim views the scholarship in Gary's name as a fitting tribute to a unique individual whose presence made the world a better place.
As a member of the scholarship committee, Jim is honored to contribute to an effort that seeks to inspire young people to aspire to the heights of goodness that Gary achieved. His dedication to this cause is a testament to his belief in the power of education and the importance of nurturing future leaders who embody the values that Gary represented.
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Chairperson
Tom Wagner, a dedicated alumnus of Ledyard High School's Class of 1973, and twice-elected class president, made significant contributions to community development and environmental preservation during his 30-year tenure as Planning Director in the Town of Waterford.
An athletic enthusiast and leader during his high school years, Tom furthered his education at Columbia University, majoring in Geography with a focus on land use and economic location theory, and was an active member of the university's wrestling team.
His career began in Westerly, Rhode Island, managing a housing rehabilitation program. In 1983, Tom moved to Waterford, Connecticut, taking on the role of Town Planner before being promoted to Planning Director. His work in Waterford was characterized by a forward-thinking approach to urban development, balancing commercial growth with environmental protection. Notable projects under his leadership included the development of six new schools and the preservation of ecosystems in commercial ventures like the Walmart development.
Tom retired from his role in 2013, leaving a legacy of progressive and environmentally conscious planning. His retirement plans included focusing on personal health, outdoor activities, and potentially consulting and volunteering within the community he helped shape.
Today, Tom's participation in the LHS ’73 Scholarship Committee reflects his ongoing commitment to his community and alma mater, honoring a career dedicated to thoughtful and sustainable community development.
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Director
Calvin K. Lunny, a proud member of the Ledyard High School Class of 1973, resides in Clinton, Illinois, with his wife Edith Brady-Lunny, a retired journalist and author. They are loving parents to two sons and doting grandparents to three grandchildren.
Calvin’s career journey began as a welder on nuclear submarines at General Dynamics’ Electric Boat Shipyard. He later transitioned to a role as a QA/QC inspector at nuclear power plants across the United States and overseas, culminating in a 32-year tenure with the Illinois Department of Transportation Bureau of Bridges and Design before retiring.
Despite life’s circumstances preventing him from graduating with his class, Calvin has always considered himself a part of the Class of 1973. Over the decades, he maintained connections with classmates, attending milestone reunions and finally joining them for the memorable 50th Reunion in 2023, where he and Edith were warmly welcomed.
Calvin’s commitment to the Gary Atkinson Imagine Scholarship is rooted in his belief in honoring Gary Atkinson’s memory and values. Inspired by conversations with classmates and his experiences supporting scholarships in Illinois, Calvin eagerly contributes to this meaningful endeavor. His decision to join the scholarship Board of Directors reflects his dedication to making a positive impact on the lives and futures of Ledyard students. In his retirement, Calvin finds joy in giving back and continuing to uphold the values instilled by his Ledyard community. His involvement with the Gary Atkinson Imagine Scholarship underscores his deep connection to his alma mater and his desire to support future generations in achieving their educational aspirations.
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Treasurer
Leslie J. "Les" Laputz, a Ledyard High School Class of 1973 alumnus, is a retired professional from the financial services sector, having notably served as Vice President at Keyport Life Insurance Company and CFO at Pioneer Investment Management Shareholder Services. He resides in Abington, MA, and is a dedicated father and grandfather.
Les's commitment to community service is evident in his involvement with the PanMass Challenge, where he plays a key role in supporting cancer research fundraising. He also served as President of the Colonial Road Runners and has been a long-term volunteer with the Boston Marathon, showcasing his passion for athletics and community engagement.
Academically, Les is distinguished, holding a BA from Wesleyan University, a Certificate from Harvard University, and an MBA from Babson College, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude and received the Helen O’Brien Award for the highest GPA.
Les cherishes his connection to Ledyard High School, recently chairing their Fiftieth Class Reunion Committee. He is honored to be part of the LHS ’73 Scholarship Committee, a tribute to his long-standing friendship with Gary Atkinson, the scholarship's namesake, and a testament to his commitment to giving back to his alma mater.
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Director
Marcy Pillsbury, a graduate of Ledyard High School’s Class of 1975, has had a distinguished career in law and public service. She graduated with honors from the University of Virginia in 1979 and earned her law degree from the University of Connecticut School of Law in 1985.
As the daughter of a 30-year U.S. Navy submariner and wife of a U.S. Navy submariner for 28 years, Marcy has a strong commitment to service and community. She is the proud mother of three sons and one daughter-in-law.
Marcy retired after 20 years as a Senior Assistant State’s Attorney in the State of Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice. Her legal expertise has been invaluable in her current roles, including serving on the Board of Directors of the U.S. Submarine Force Library and Museum/U.S.S. Nautilus and the Thames River Heritage Park. Additionally, she volunteers her legal services to the Connecticut Veterans Legal Center.
Marcy’s connection to the Gary Atkinson Imagine Scholarship is deeply personal. She has been a longtime friend of Gary Atkinson’s younger brother, John Atkinson, and was instrumental in establishing the Connecticut-based Gary Atkinson Imagine Scholarship Fund (GAISF). Before joining the board, Marcy handled all the legal work necessary to create the GAISF nonprofit, ensuring the organization’s foundation and future success. Her dedication to this scholarship reflects her commitment to honoring Gary’s legacy and supporting Ledyard students in their educational aspirations.
Throughout her career, Marcy has been a passionate volunteer and board member for numerous organizations, including the DOW Chemical Community Advisory Panel, various Parent Teacher Organizations, the U.S. Submarine Force Officer Spouses Association, the Ledyard Education Advancement Foundation (LEAF), and the CT Criminal Justice Educational and Charitable Association.
Marcy’s legal acumen and deep connection to the Atkinson family make her an invaluable part of the Gary Atkinson Imagine Scholarship board, where she continues to make a significant impact on the lives of future students.
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President
John Dunham, a member of the Ledyard High School Class of 1973, is a seasoned entrepreneur in the San Francisco / Silicon Valley tech scene, now thriving as an executive coach. His influence is evident, with numerous former employees founding successful companies, reflecting his mentorship skills.
In 2002, following the sale of his first startup, Caw Networks, John established the Caw Foundation, a community-benefit organization, demonstrating his commitment to philanthropy and community service.
John's leadership in the Gary Atkinson Imagine Scholarship stems from his desire to honor the LHS Class of ’73 and the memory of William Gary Atkinson, III, a respected and kind classmate. For John, this scholarship is a celebration of the unity and spirit of his class, especially meaningful after their 50th reunion. Through the scholarship, John seeks to channel his entrepreneurial experience into community good, recognizing the importance of his Ledyard roots. It's an opportunity for him to contribute significantly to the community that supported his early years.
Residing in Berkeley, CA, with his wife, Dana Kawano, and their two Cardigan Welsh Corgis, John's involvement in the scholarship reflects his journey from a tech innovator to a community-focused leader, aiming to positively impact future LHS students.