MILDRED BERENDSEN

When I heard that Mrs. Berendsen had passed, I burst into tears and called my classmate, Pam Newhouse. Mrs. B had (and continues to have) SUCH a huge influence on my life. She believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. She forgave me for wearing purple socks. Repeatedly. Liliane, you were friends with my mother, Esther Hautzig, either at James Madison or Hunter-I can't remember--she adored you, and of COURSE she adored your sister. I remember my interview with her word for word when I...

Dear Charlie and Liliane, Amanda and I just found out today of Millie's passing. Such a shock and devastating discovery. She was such a wonderful neighbor and friend. The girls adored her and she was such an amazing source of strength to me at a very difficult time in my life. Her advice and in encouragement were so needed and appreciated. We hoped to stop by to say hello. I will be in touch with Charlie soon. Our love and prayers to you both! Barbara and Amanda

Dear Charlie and Liliane, Millie was a member of my French class in New Fairfield CT. She encouraged me to keep attending although my French was very rusty. And how we would talk and laugh at Starbucks after class! She also encouraged me when I faced my cancer diagnosis. I am so grateful she was in my life. Although I only knew Millie few years, I miss her very much. Thank goodness for the memories. I am so sorry for your loss. She had a gift for touching people deeply. Sincerely,...

Sincere condolences goes out to the Berendsen family for your sad loss. May GOD be a source of comfort and strength as you mourn the loss of Mildred.

Mrs Berendsen had an extraordinary effect on all Chapinites who knew her. Her insight and support, and incredible leadership of all of us who knew her as Headmistress was and will always be foremost in our minds when we think of growing up and being educated in New York at this most special school, under the guidance of this most special woman.
- Heidi Kesseler, class of 1969

Knowing that someone believes in you is a special gift, and knowing that it's from Mrs. Berendsen is even more special. As a new teacher, Mrs. B was a wonderful role model and mentor to me and she remained a friend long after she will be greatly missed by me and all who knew her.

Mrs. Berendsen had a huge impact on the lives of the thousands of Chapin students who were fortunate enough to be at Chapin during her tenure. She will be sorely missed.

Dear Charlie and Liliane -

I am so very sorry for your loss.

Millie was very special to me. She grew up with my mom in Brooklyn and was an inspiration for me to go to Smith. Over the years, we shared that kinship with Smith, and she was forever and always interested in me, my career, and my family. I was fortunate enough to see her on May 23, and she was as ever interested in me, notwithstanding what she had been through and the fact that I completely surprised her in...

Millie will live on in the hearts and minds of all of those who worked with her and for whom she was a guide and mentor.