Elaine Loft, Staff Writer
At Community Meeting on December 5, Head of School Andy Chappell recognized and celebrated Kathleen Rutty-Fey ’87, an alumna, parent, and 30 year employee of The Derryfield School. Ms. Rutty-Fey has held numerous roles in the External Affairs Office, and is currently the assistant head of the division.
“Ms. Rutty-Fey has shaped the heartbeat and joyful spirit of The Derryfield School. This is best captured in her trademark phrase/cheer/mantra: “DS GO BANANAS!” It’s more than a cheer—it’s a philosophy, one she embodies with her DS super-fan devotion. Ms. Rutty-Fey shows up. She shows up to every playoff and championship game, on every field and in every gym, in this theater to watch plays, musicals, and concerts, cheering and supporting until her voice gives out.
Her trademark phrase also captures something else we all know about Ms. Rutty-Fey: she leans into fun as naturally as she leans into the hard work of school life. Her competitive spirit is fierce, whether the arena is Winter Carnival, trivia, or the countless informal contests that animate our days. And yet, even in her most competitive moments, she is endlessly caring.
Ms. Rutty-Fey also makes everyday moments shine. Junior homeroom attendance is, somehow, fun—thanks to her tradition of cranking up music as students walk in. Our hallways are brighter because she fills them with singing, laughter, and stories. Families meeting her for the first time are instantly put at ease; she has a gift for connection, for listening, for making people feel like they’ve just arrived home.
As a leader, she is steady, thoughtful, and clear. She sets goals that matter, and she ensures everyone understands their part. When things become murky, she’s the one who untangles them, bringing structure and clarity with both competence and care. She understands—instinctively—the magic of The Derryfield School: that we aim for excellence without letting go of our goofiness, our joy, our confidence, and our deep sense of community. She protects that balance fiercely, and she reminds us never to lose sight of it.
Ms. Rutty-Fey, we celebrate you for 30 years of service—and including your days as a student, 36 years of belonging—you have helped define who we are. You’ve brought warmth, wisdom, and wholehearted delight to every job, every hallway, every family, every game, every performance, every colleague, and every student lucky enough to cross your path.”
