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At Chandler School, memories are not just moments but milestones in life’s journey. In a recent interview with Dan McInerny, ’73 CHS ’77, a successful entrepreneur and former athlete, the profound impact of Chandler School on personal and professional growth became vividly clear.

Dan reminisces about his early years at Chandler, describing it as more than a school—it was a second family. The nurturing yet challenging environment set the stage for a life guided by passion and purpose. His parents’ connection and friendship with the Chandlers inspired an award in his father’s name - the Robert T. McInerny Award for Outstanding School Service - a testament to the School’s lasting impact.

Reflecting on his time at Chandler School, Dan spoke fondly of teachers who shaped his academic and personal journey. Mr. Mac, Ms. Rose, Mr. Hill and Tom Chandler were not just educators but mentors who instilled a love for literature, language and sports. The School’s fields and lunchtime camaraderie created a sense of belonging that stayed with him.

Middle School at Chandler unfolded as a canvas of exploration. Dan’s love for science and the environment was expressed through camping trips and sports. Visits to JPL/NASA sparked his curiosity, and playing multiple sports with friends fueled his competitive spirit.

Dan’s path to success intertwined with his love for baseball. From Blair to Berkeley, where he played and excelled, to being drafted by Cleveland, his journey blended athletics and academics. Joining Quiksilver marked a pivotal shift, leading to entrepreneurship and the creation of OluKai. OluKai has become one of the most successful footwear giants in the retail marketplace. Since its inception, OluKai has made a point of giving back to the community and supporting Hawaiian culture.

Central to Dan’s success were principles of integrity, trust and the Aloha spirit. Building a brand wasn’t just about products but about people and values. Meeting his wife, Suzy, through work and consulting for renowned brands like Patagonia reflected his commitment to quality and authenticity.

Dan’s leadership style mirrored his upbringing—grounded in empathy, communication and giving back. He emphasized the importance of mentorship, guiding his sons and leaving a legacy of integrity and environmental responsibility.

For Dan, personal fulfillment meant aligning passion with purpose, prioritizing family, and staying true to oneself amid life’s challenges. Work-life balance wasn’t a compromise but a conscious choice to nurture meaningful relationships and make a positive impact.

Dan had the opportunity to visit Chandler School in June to share his experiences with the next generation, his story resonates as a testament to the transformative power of education, community, and unwavering values. 

“Chandler represents everything that’s good in life -  it’s like coming home. It’s about the quality and character of the faculty and, most importantly, graduates like you, who go on to be amazing stewards in our community, making a difference in the world.”

Dan McInerny’s journey encapsulates the essence of Chandler School—a place where dreams take flight, values are nurtured and legacies are forged. Congratulations to Dan, 2024’s Distinguished Alumni. 

Chandler represents everything that’s good in life - it’s like coming home. It’s about the quality and character of the faculty and, most importantly, graduates like you, who go on to be amazing stewards in our community, making a difference in the world.

At Chandler School, memories are not just moments but milestones in life’s journey. In a recent interview with Dan McInerny, ’73 CHS ’77, a successful entrepreneur and former athlete, the profound impact of Chandler School on personal and professional growth became vividly clear.

Dan reminisces about his early years at Chandler, describing it as more than a school—it was a second family. The nurturing yet challenging environment set the stage for a life guided by passion and purpose. His parents’ connection and friendship with the Chandlers inspired an award in his father’s name - the Robert T. McInerny Award for Outstanding School Service - a testament to the School’s lasting impact.

Reflecting on his time at Chandler School, Dan spoke fondly of teachers who shaped his academic and personal journey. Mr. Mac, Ms. Rose, Mr. Hill and Tom Chandler were not just educators but mentors who instilled a love for literature, language and sports. The School’s fields and lunchtime camaraderie created a sense of belonging that stayed with him.

Middle School at Chandler unfolded as a canvas of exploration. Dan’s love for science and the environment was expressed through camping trips and sports. Visits to JPL/NASA sparked his curiosity, and playing multiple sports with friends fueled his competitive spirit.

Dan’s path to success intertwined with his love for baseball. From Blair to Berkeley, where he played and excelled, to being drafted by Cleveland, his journey blended athletics and academics. Joining Quiksilver marked a pivotal shift, leading to entrepreneurship and the creation of OluKai. OluKai has become one of the most successful footwear giants in the retail marketplace. Since its inception, OluKai has made a point of giving back to the community and supporting Hawaiian culture.

Central to Dan’s success were principles of integrity, trust and the Aloha spirit. Building a brand wasn’t just about products but about people and values. Meeting his wife, Suzy, through work and consulting for renowned brands like Patagonia reflected his commitment to quality and authenticity.

Dan’s leadership style mirrored his upbringing—grounded in empathy, communication and giving back. He emphasized the importance of mentorship, guiding his sons and leaving a legacy of integrity and environmental responsibility.

For Dan, personal fulfillment meant aligning passion with purpose, prioritizing family, and staying true to oneself amid life’s challenges. Work-life balance wasn’t a compromise but a conscious choice to nurture meaningful relationships and make a positive impact.

Dan had the opportunity to visit Chandler School in June to share his experiences with the next generation, his story resonates as a testament to the transformative power of education, community, and unwavering values.

“Chandler represents everything that’s good in life - it’s like coming home. It’s about the quality and character of the faculty and, most importantly, graduates like you, who go on to be amazing stewards in our community, making a difference in the world.”

Dan McInerny’s journey encapsulates the essence of Chandler School—a place where dreams take flight, values are nurtured and legacies are forged. Congratulations to Dan, 2024’s Distinguished Alumni.

Chandler represents everything that’s good in life - it’s like coming home. It’s about the quality and character of the faculty and, most importantly, graduates like you, who go on to be amazing stewards in our community, making a difference in the world.

At Chandler School, we are proud to have a thriving performing arts program led by our exceptional Performing Arts Department Chair, Brandi Williams-Moore. With more than two decades of experience in teaching and directing theater, music and dance, Brandi has significantly shaped the artistic landscape of our School. Her commitment to fostering creativity, critical thinking and student collaboration has made her an invaluable asset to our community. 

Brandi Williams-Moore holds a Master’s of Education from Pepperdine University, where she graduated with honors, demonstrating her academic dedication. Her journey in the arts began at Berklee College of Music, a renowned institution where she honed her skills and laid the foundation for her career. With a rich background in both music performance and education, Brandi seamlessly blends technical and theoretical aspects of music with creative exploration, ensuring her students receive a well-rounded education.

Since joining Chandler School in 2014, Brandi has led the design and implementation of a comprehensive performing arts curriculum for all K-8 students. Her courses cover a wide range of disciplines, including drama, film, music and theater tech. As the producer of two major productions annually, Brandi oversees every aspect, from auditions to the final performance, ensuring that each show is a memorable experience for students and audiences alike.

Her role extends beyond the classroom, as she collaborates with faculty across departments to integrate performing arts into the broader educational experience. Brandi’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in creating a dynamic environment where students can create deeper learning. For instance, in collaboration with the 6th grade English department’s Finding Langston unit, Brandi connected themes from the novel to the history of blues, guiding students through the process of composing and understanding the structure of a blues song. Additionally, she works closely with the Director of Innovation Pete Carlson and Art Teacher Travis Chatham to design and curate curriculum elements that enrich student learning.

Brandi’s influence on her students is profound. She mentors and coaches them in acting, vocal performance, choreography and stagecraft, preparing them for auditions and performances with confidence and skill. Her dedication to student growth shows in the way she nurtures their talents, helping them to excel not just in the arts but in all areas of their lives.

One of the hallmarks of Brandi’s teaching philosophy is her belief in the universal power of music. She encourages her students to appreciate music in all its forms, whether they aspire to be professional musicians or simply enjoy it as a part of their lives. “Music is everywhere,” she often says, emphasizing the importance of understanding and appreciating the music we encounter daily.

Brandi’s excellence in teaching has not gone unnoticed. During the end of the 2023-2024 school year, she was honored with the Zach and Debbie Snyder Faculty Award, which recognizes outstanding educators at Chandler School who embody excellence in teaching and a commitment to the school’s mission and values. This prestigious award highlights her ability to seamlessly integrate arts, design, innovation and creativity into her teaching approach, inspiring academic growth and contributing to a vibrant and supportive academic program.

Brandi’s professional achievements extend beyond the classroom. She has an impressive background as a background vocalist for renowned artists, including Whitney Houston, Alicia Keys and Toni Braxton. Her experience in the music industry enriches her teaching, providing students with unique insights into the world of professional music.

Brandi Williams-Moore is more than just a teacher; she is a mentor, leader and inspiration to her students and the Chandler School community. Her passion for the performing arts, coupled with her dedication to fostering a supportive and creative learning environment, has made her an integral part of our school. We are proud to have Brandi as our Performing Arts Department Chair, guiding the next generation of artists and musicians to greatness.

In the colorful room in the oldest edifice at Chandler School, where little laughs and big learning meld into a symphony of daily discovery, one can find Kerrie Cardamom, whose enthusiasm and dedication have illuminated the Kindergarten classroom for more than fifteen years. As a recent recipient of the Mallinger Family Endowed Professional Development Grant, Kerrie's journey and impact extend far beyond the classroom, embodying the school's mission and values through her caring, challenging, and committed approach to kindergarten.

Kerrie's educational career began on an international scale, teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) to a diverse array of students in Busan, South Korea. This formative experience not only honed her teaching skills but also instilled a deep-seated passion for connecting with students from various cultural backgrounds. "Teaching ESL was profoundly rewarding—it was more than language; it was about giving students the keys to unlock their new world," Kerrie reflects with enthusiasm, reminiscing about her transformative experiences abroad.

Returning to the United States, Kerrie brought her global perspective and expertise to Chandler School, choosing to anchor her educational journey in the Kindergarten classroom. "Although I have enjoyed teaching at every grade level, from kindergarten through college-aged students, Kindergarten holds the most special place in my heart," she explains. It's in these early educational stages that Kerrie believes she can make the most significant impact, nurturing young minds at a critical phase of their developmental journey.

Over her fifteen-year tenure at Chandler School, Kerrie has not only been a teacher but also a vital member of various school committees. Her contributions aim to enhance the school environment and ensure it remains a place where the youngest learners can thrive. Her involvement is driven by a belief in the power of community and collective effort in fostering an enriching educational atmosphere.

Kerrie's excellence in teaching was recently celebrated as a recipient of the Mallinger Family Endowed Professional Development Grant, a recognition given to faculty members who exemplify the school’s mission in their professional conduct and teaching. The award cites her ability to nurture student engagement, uphold the highest ethical standards, and foster both personal and academic growth among her students. "She connects authentically with our students and their families, inspires student achievement, and fosters a sense of community and agency in the learners she serves," says Lower School Director Laura Reardon. Kerrie's classroom is a space where the smallest learners are encouraged to explore, question and grow.

Beyond her professional achievements, Kerrie's personal touch adds a unique warmth to her teaching style. Known for her joyful demeanor and the genuine care she extends to her students and their families, she is a beloved figure both in and out of the classroom. Her ability to impart confidence in the youngest of Chandler’s students makes her not just a teacher, but a significant part of their foundational years.

At Chandler School, the spirit of innovation in education is embodied by Andy Hulm, our dedicated 6th Grade social studies teacher whose passion and creativity have significantly shaped the educational experience for countless students since he joined the faculty in 2009.

Originally from the UK, where he earned his degree in history from Edge Hill University and his Post-Graduate Certificate from Canterbury Christ Church University, Mr. Hulm has brought a wealth of knowledge and a unique educational approach to Chandler. His classes are not just lessons but journeys back in time where students engage deeply with the material through interactive and technology-integrated methods.

Mr. Hulm's commitment to excellence is evident in his role as the founder of Chandler’s Middle School Debate Program. This initiative has not only introduced students to the world of competitive debate but has also helped them achieve success in numerous tournaments. His ability to inspire students with the power of words and persuasion highlights his deep understanding of the importance of communication skills in today's world.

Beyond the debate floor, Mr. Hulm is deeply involved in curriculum development. He continuously seeks to enhance the learning experience by integrating diverse instructional strategies that cater to all ability levels, ensuring that every student feels both challenged and supported. His innovative lesson planning and multiple approaches to instruction have set a standard in educational excellence and inclusivity.

During the summer months, Mr. Hulm extends his influence beyond the regular school year by teaching for Partnership for Success (PFS), where he helps incoming 5th and 6th graders from various Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) schools. PFS’s collaborative efforts with independent schools have enabled over 400 students to experience nine consecutive summers of free enrichment, fostering future civic leaders committed to giving back to their communities. 

His dedication to professional development and mentorship is just as profound. As a facilitator for the California Teacher Development Collaborative's (CATDC) Teaching Foundations program, he provided invaluable support and guidance to new teachers, helping them hone their skills and adapt to the independent school environment. Although the Los Angeles branch of the program closed, Mr. Hulm's impact on those he coached continues to resonate.

Mr. Hulm also actively contributes to Chandler School's efforts to create a culturally responsive and inclusive curriculum. As a member of the 2023-2024 anti-bias cohort, he worked diligently to design learning tasks that address bias, enhance representation in course content and facilitate critical conversations in the classroom.

Mr. Hulm is known for his ability to bring ancient history to life in unforgettable ways. Whether he’s dressed as a knight or time traveling in his classroom’s replica TARDIS, he transforms his classroom into a dynamic and imaginative environment that not only educates but also entertains and engages his students.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to education and his embodiment of Chandler School’s mission and values, Mr. Hulm was recently awarded the Jon & Wende Headley Family Faculty Award. This honor celebrates his exemplary teaching practices, his nurturing of student engagement, and his adherence to the highest standards of ethics and professional conduct.

Andy Hulm’s role at Chandler School goes beyond teaching; he is a mentor, an innovator and a key figure in the educational development of new middle school students. His dedication ensures that the history he teaches will be remembered not just for its content but for the memorable way in which it was taught.