Inviting Innovation: Welcoming The Chris Perry Tech Lab

By Anton Liesnoi ‘26 & Pavlo Tsybran ‘26

Fryeburg Academy has opened the Chris Perry ‘10 Creative Technology Laboratory: a space that celebrates innovation, curiosity, and community. These values perfectly reflect Chris Perry ’10, a beloved FA alum remembered for his creativity and kindness.

Chris passed away earlier this year, just before his 33rd birthday. His friends and family decided to honor his memory by creating something that would continue his love of technology and exploration. Thanks to their generosity, the new lab now gives students a place to build, create, and connect, just like Chris brought people together through his ideas and energy.

When the lab was first announced, Chris’ friends wrote that “This is more than a memorial. It’s a space for students like Chris—innovators, problem-solvers, kids who ask big questions and build cool things.” They also described him as “steady, brilliant, funny, and loyal - a person who shaped many of our best memories at FA and beyond.” The Perry Lab stands as a living reminder of his spirit, giving future students a chance to explore their own creativity and curiosity.

The lab is located in the Bion R. Cram Library. It features modern, high-performance PCs, comfortable headsets, and professional software for CAD (Computer-Aided Design), flight simulation, programming, and digital art. It’s a space where students can turn ideas into real projects—from 3D designs and simulations to creative digital work. The room previously served as the Robotics Lab, which has now moved across the hall. Together, the two rooms create a small, yet powerful technology hub where creativity and engineering overlap. Students can easily move between robotics, design, and coding projects, developing a mix of technical and creative skills.

The new Tech Lab also hosts Fryeburg Academy’s first Esports Club, one of the latest additions to the school’s extracurricular and enrichment programs. Advisors Mr. Sartory, Mr. West, and Mr. Kaschub help students form teams, organize schedules, and get involved in competitive gaming. FA’s teams are planning to compete in Maine’s high school Esports leagues for Rocket League, Mario Kart Deluxe 8, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate later this year. Other popular games—like Fortnite, Madden, and Valorant—are available regionally, giving players more options to get involved once competitions begin.

However, the Esports Club isn’t just about gaming. Many students come to hang out, share strategies, and make new friends. It’s a relaxed, inclusive community where people can enjoy games together while building teamwork and communication skills. For dorm students or anyone looking for a new Enrichment activity, Esports offers a creative and social option that fits perfectly into the Academy’s spirit of connection.

Both the Chris Perry ‘10 Lab and the Esports Club are already giving students new ways to learn, compete, and create—and this is just the beginning.