Archways 12 – Spring 2010

A semi-annual publication for alumni and friends of St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

A Passion That’s Contagious Arjun Srinivasan ’88 St. Andrew’s Distinguished Alumnus of the Year

April 2010

Volume 7

Number 1

by george

Pop Quiz 1 This year, St. Andrew’s travel grants provided opportunities for students and faculty to visit which of the following places on learning and service trips?

a. Accra, Ghana b. Jerusalem, Israel c. Havana, Cuba d. Ankara, Turkey e. Kigali, Rwanda f. All of the above The upcoming capital campaign for St. Andrew’s School will provide new or refurbished classrooms for which of the following activities?

2

a. Robotics b. Long-term science research projects c. Pottery d. Photography e. Choral music f. All of the above 3 This year, St. Andrew’s students have been accepted at which of the following colleges?

a. Harvard b. Yale c. Princeton d. Columbia e. Dartmouth f. All of the above

4 Which of the following new or modernized facilities were enjoyed by students for the first time this year?

a. A refurbished Commons on the North Campus for eating and socializing b. A newly built classroom in the Lower School for the 2nd grade c. A modernized computer lab in the Lower School d. A renovated gym on the South Campus with a climbing wall and adjustable basketball goals e. All of the above 5 This year, St. Andrew’s students earned service hours and contributed significant amounts of time to which of the following nonprofits?

a. Operation Shoestring b. Stewpot c. CARA (Community Animal Rescue and Adoption) d. STAND (Students Taking Action Now: Darfur) e. St. Andrew’s Episcopal School f. All of the above True or False: This year, one-third of last year’s graduating class attended Ole Miss as freshmen.

6

Answers: 1(f), 2(f), 3(f), 4(e), 5(f), 6 True

“Sweeney Todd is the new hallmark for St. Andrew’s Upper School performing arts productions. This image is a perfect example of the incredible work of each and every cast member. Just look at their faces, their body position—everyone is totally involved and ‘in the moment.’ This is not just good theatre. It is spectacular.” — Ray McFarland, director

The ensemble performs “City of Fire,” a musical number from Sweeney Todd.

Gazing through Archways Success in the 21st century will require ecological and geographical awareness, a willingness to embrace technologies never before imagined, and the ability to collaborate and problem solve with others.

Success also requires the ability to develop a concrete plan and the confidence to put that plan into action. That’s why it’s not enough to learn about these skills in the classroom; students must also have opportunities to put them into practice in the real world.

In the following pages, you’ll see a few examples of how St. Andrew’s is providing those real world opportunities, from independent trips to destinations worldwide to team service projects close to home, from a new science building that will enhance opportunities for experimentation on campus to the chance to network with alumni who are leaders in global sustainability, national security, and world health.

An archway is a passage beneath a series of arches, a path defined by the unity and support of the arch. This issue of Archways highlights many passages in our quest to prepare our students for the challenges of the 21st century, all backed by the unity and support of St. Andrew’s Episcopal School.

8

A Passion that’s Contagious Arjun Srinivasan ’88 St. Andrew’s 2010 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year

24

Worthy of Merit

27

Curtain Calls

32

out of africa

On the Cover Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Arjun Srinivasan is a member of the U.S.Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, one of the seven uniformed services of the United States.

43

Alumni Updates and events

contents

Farewell to Dr. Randy Patterson

4

Konnichiwa to the Archbishop of Canterbury

5

And the Addy Goes to…

St. Andrew’s

St. Andrew’s Presents DECO

6

12

From St. Andrew’s to the Secret Service Will Dickson ’94 • St. Andrew’s 2010 Young Alumnus of the Year Building the Road Less Traveled Chris Rollins ‘87 • Recipient of the 2010 Saints in Service Award “When I think of St. Andrew’s, I think of home.”

Dan Roach ’78 • Inaugural Recipient of the St. Andrew’s Loyalty Award Myths About St. Andrew’s

14

16

18 20

Smart. Down to a Science.

The Campaign for Science and Art at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

Annual Fund Goal: $500,000 and 100% Participation Homecoming ’09

Archways Staff

and Contributors

22

36 38

St. Andrew’s in Scotland

Discovering the Power of Place St. Andrew’s Celebrates Read Across America Sports Round Up

41

44

Designer Alecia Porch Photographer Patrick Taylor ’93

46

Looking Back/Looking Forward

Editor Patrick Taylor ’93 Contributing Editors Rebecca Hiatt Collins Mary Collins Harwell ’93 Marlo Kirkpatrick Frances Jean Neely

31

Your passports, please

This issue of Archways is dedicated to Dr. Randy Patterson, who is retiring at the end of the school year. His successful, varied career has included service on the staff of former Governor William Winter, in the Secretary of State’s office, and as executive director of the Mississippi Democratic Party, as well as teaching at the university and high school levels.

Dr. Patterson originally joined the St. Andrew’s Episcopal School faculty as an English teacher. During his 15-year career at St. Andrew’s, he also served as a speech teacher, chair of the English department, speech and debate coach, and, finally, as chair of the speech communication department.

Dr. Patterson’s fondest memories from his time at St. Andrew’s include watching students grow and gain confidence through the speech and debate program he helped establish. Another highlight was working on the application for the Malone Scholars program, an experience he describes as “working with my colleagues on something significant for St Andrew’s for the long-term.”

“One of the things I’ll miss the most is being a part of the St. Andrew’s community,” Dr. Patterson says. “We may ask probing questions from time to time, but St. Andrew’s has always had a strong sense of its mission and its purpose. It’s been very satisfying to be a part of that dedicated community and that mission.”

56

If you have a story idea or comment for Archways, please contact Patrick Taylor, Editor, at taylorp@gosaints.org.

www.gosaints.org

3

Mr. & Miss St. Andrew’s

Mr. and Miss St. Andrew’s Seniors Hannah Halford and Connor Buechler have been selected by their peers as Mr. and Miss St. Andrew’s 2010.

Hannah, the daughter of Jim and Kim Halford of Madison, is an Alpha-Omega, high honor roll student and a member of the National Honor Society. She is the editor of The Revelation student newspaper and North Pasture literary magazine. Hannah is a Peer Leader and also serves on the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Leadership Team. A talented athlete, Hannah has played on the varsity soccer and track teams since seventh grade, serving as soccer captain her senior year and track captain her junior and senior years. Communityminded, Hannah participated in the

Mission First neighborhood ministry program at First Baptist Church in Jackson. Of all her accomplishments, Hannah says her proudest moment came when she was crowned winner of the Harry Potter trivia contest held at Barnes & Noble.

Connor Buechler is the son of Lecia Spriggs and Kurt Buechler of Ridgeland.

Connor is an Alpha-Omega, high honor roll student and a member of the Cum Laude and National Honor Societies.

He is a National Merit Finalist and an AP Scholar with Honor. An athlete and an artist, Connor has played on the varsity soccer and football teams all four years of his high school career. He is a part of the men’s quartet in the Chamber Above: Connor Buechler and Hannah Halford

Choir and portrayed the male leads in the musicals The Robber Bridegroom and Sweeney Todd. Active in his church, Connor serves on the DOY Council and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Leadership team, and is founder and prefect of the Chapel Council. He was selected as the statewide winner of the Lindy Callahan Scholar Athlete Award, which recognizes athletic achievement, involvement in sports, leadership in school and in the community, and volunteerism.

Candidates for Mr. and Miss St. Andrew’s were nominated by the Class of 2010, with the entire Upper School voting in the Mr. and Miss St. Andrew’s election.

Konnichiwa

to the archbishop of canterbury

W

hen St. Andrew’s students Molly O’Brien and Dan Zehr decided to spend their sophomore year living and studying in Osaka, Japan, they knew they would meet some interesting people, but they never expected to be introduced to the Archbishop of Canterbury in a land so far from the United Kingdom.

Molly and Dan are living with host families and attending Momoyama-

Gakuin, St. Andrew’s sister school in Japan. The two had the opportunity to meet the Most Reverend and Right Honorable Rowan Williams, the 104th Archbishop of Canterbury, when he visited the school to commemorate Momoyama-Gakuin’s 125th anniversary. The Archbishop of Canterbury is the symbolic head of the Anglican Communion, of which the Episcopal Church is a part. Prior to Williams’ 2003 appointment as archbishop, he served

as a bishop, theologian, and academic.

Momoyama-Gakuin is a member of the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES). Working through NAES, Momoyama-Gakuin initiated an exchange program with other Episcopal schools in the United States.

St. Andrew’s was among the first schools to enter into the program, joining in 1975. The program has since become the model for exchange programs in Japan.

Above: The Most Reverend and Right Honorable Archbishop Rowan Williams with students attending Momoyama-Gakuin, St. Andrew’s sister school in Osaka, Japan

and the addy goes to... st. andrew’s

St. Andrew’s was the big winner at the 2010 Addy Awards sponsored by the Greater Jackson Advertising Federation.

The annual awards show honors the best in marketing and advertising in central Mississippi. Work produced by St. Andrew’s swept the top honors, winning six Gold Addys, one Silver Addy, and taking home Best of Show Print and Best of Show Overall. For their work on projects for St. Andrew’s and other clients, freelance designer Alecia Porch was named Designer of the Year and freelance writer Marlo Kirkpatrick was named Writer of the Year.

Best of Show Print “Down to a Science” brochure created for the Campaign for Science and Art

Brochure – “Down to a Science” ★ Direct Mail – “Down to a Science” ★ Video Presentation – “Don’t Give” ★ Multi-media Presentation – “Down to a Science” and “Don’t Give” campaign ★ Magazine, Single Issue – Archways ★ Magazine Series – Archways

Gold Addys were awarded to St. Andrew’s projects in the following categories:

St. Andrew’s also took home a Silver Addy for the “Don’t Give” DVD package design.

Award-winning St. Andrew’s Projects

Best of Show Overall “Down to a Science” brochure and “Don’t Give” short film created for the Campaign for Science and Art

★

The St. Andrew’s Gold Addy winners advanced to the District Addy Awards, where the “Down to a Science” brochure and “Don’t Give” video captured three Gold Addys and one Silver Addy.

The Gold Addy winners will now advance to the National Addy Awards competition in Washington, D.C.

St. Andrew’s

presents

St. Andrew’s Presents DECO showcased Jackson’s newest luxury condominiums and in the process, raised approximately $100,000 for St. Andrew’s Episcopal School.

The St. Andrew’s Parents’ Association’s (SAPA) signature fund-raising event, St. Andrew’s Presents DECO merged the long-standing tradition of the Designer Showhouse with innovative concepts from 2009’s St. Andrew’s Presents Living Green.

DECO’s primary venue was City View, a 1940s building “re-purposed” into 24 contemporary residences. City View generously opened its doors to St. Andrew’s, offering two residences in which interior designers, artists, and craftsmen displayed their skills. The DECO units were the first showhouse in the nation to meet Wellness Within Your Walls™ standards for chemically free and environmentally sustainable design.

From February 25–28, the residences were open for tours and hosted a series of entertaining and informative events open to the community. Over those four days, hundreds of people participated in the City View tours, attended the educational Dwell and Live Well Luncheon, enjoyed brunch and a behind the scenes tour, viewed Smart Art student works, and celebrated at DECO Downtown with great food, music, and spectacular silent auction offerings.

City living at City View

“DECO gave St. Andrew’s the opportunity to showcase the convergence of healthy living and cutting edge design, and to present to the greater community our belief that making smart, healthy

choices at home does not require the sacrifice of style,” said Cindy Dunbar, chair of the St. Andrew’s Parents’ Association. “In addition to raising funds for St. Andrew’s, our hope was to fos-

ter a new appreciation for local, responsible, and healthy resources – structural, natural, and creative – and to spark the desire to re-examine how we think about the context of our homes.”

Thank You St. Andrew’s Presents DECO was a community collaboration engaging the talents and resources of many people. DECO’s concept was brought to fruition by wellness innovator and designer Jillian Pritchard Cooke, community liaison Laurie Smith, more than 30 local designers, and more than 100 parent volunteers. Special thanks go to the event’s many, generous sponsors, including presenting sponsor BankPlus and venue hosts City View Condominiums and Parkway Properties. The St. Andrew’s Parents’ Association also thanks DECO Chairmen Allison Fisackerly and Kristy Simms for their incredible efforts and for the dedication of their extraordinary committee.

“I realized I liked medical specialties that involved a ‘story.’ Infectious disease is people-oriented, medical detective work.”

{alumni awards}

A

passion that’s contagious Arjun Srinivasan ’88 • St. Andrew’s 2010 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year

Catch an episode of House or CSI, and you’ll have an idea of what Dr. Arjun Srinivasan does for a living. A leading epidemiologist with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Dr. Srinivasan solves medical whodunits, tracking down the origins of widespread infections and illnesses. • His unique talent for unmasking the medical culprits and managing the crisis situations they cause and his personal dedication to protecting the public health has earned Dr. Srinivasan multiple awards in the medical field, as well as recognition as St. Andrew’s Episcopal School’s 2010 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year.

Dr. Srinivasan heads the response team of the CDC’s Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, the group charged with investigating and preventing adverse events related to healthcare delivery. Dr. Srinivasan and his team are responsible for investigating outbreaks of infection and illness in hospitals and healthcare facilities, as well as outbreaks related to medicines or medical products. Under Dr. Srinivasan’s leadership, the team also conducts research and develops national policies designed to prevent future outbreaks.

Dr. Srinivasan graduated from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, then completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore. But it was during a fellowship at Johns Hopkins in infectious disease that Dr. Srinivasan discovered his true passion.

“I realized I liked medical specialties that involved a ‘story,’” he recalls. “I

enjoyed talking to patients and trying to figure out why they weren’t feeling well. One of my most important tools is words – asking ‘Where have you been?’ What did you do there? What did you come into contact with?’

Infectious disease is people-oriented, medical detective work.”

A heavily publicized medical investigation led by Dr. Arjun Srinivasan served as the basis for an episode of the television comedy “Scrubs.”

Following his fellowship, Dr. Srinivasan served as assistant professor of medicine in the infectious diseases division at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. When Johns Hopkins Hospital launched an antibiotic management program in 2001, hospital leaders asked Dr. Srinivasan to serve as its first director. The program focused

on improving the use of antibiotics in the hospital and controlling bacterium that became resistant to antibiotics. Dr. Srinivasan led the pioneering program for two years, during which time he collaborated on several projects with the CDC. When a position for a medical epidemiologist in the CDC’s Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion opened in 2003, Dr. Srinivasan was a logical candidate for the job.

“My specialty was healthcare epidemiology – trying to make the hospital safer for the patients and the people who work in healthcare. The job at CDC was similar to what I was already doing at Johns Hopkins,” Dr. Srinivasan says, “But now, instead of a single hospital, I was carrying out that work on a national level.”

After three years on the job, Dr. Srinivasan was promoted to the position of response team leader. Today, he supervises a staff of three Epidemic

Distinguished Alumnus of the Year

The highest honor bestowed upon an alumnus, the Distinguished Alumnus Award recognizes extraordinary personal achievement, professional accomplishments, and significant contributions that benefit society. Recipients are individuals whose exemplary lives and activities reflect honor upon St. Andrew’s Episcopal School. Alumni must have graduated from St. Andrew’s 15 or more years ago to be eligible for nomination.

{alumni awards}

Intelligence Service (EIS) officers and seven staff members. Dr. Srinivasan manages requests nationwide for the CDC’s assistance in investigating healthcare-related outbreaks, coordinates activities related to infection control, and supervises the CDC’s interactions during outbreaks with relevant groups, including other federal agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to develop guidelines or regulations to prevent future outbreaks.

Dr. Srinivasan has supervised more than 20 field investigations, five of which led to national recalls of medications or medical products. High profile cases on which he’s worked on behalf of the CDC include an investigation into infant deaths due to overdoses of cough and cold medications, which helped shape FDA recommendations and regulatory actions regarding the use of these medicines by children; tracing outbreaks of bacterial infections to a contaminated respiratory device; and tracking eye infections following cataract surgery back to a tainted irrigation solution.

The U.S. Army sought Dr. Srinivasan’s expertise in investigating and controlling an outbreak of infection among service members injured in Iraq and Afghanistan. Dr. Srinivasan led a

5

key lessons Dr. Arjun Srinivasan learned at St. Andrew’s:

1. Be passionate about what you do.

2. Be persistent.

3. Be brave.

4. Be nice to other people.

5. Be humble.

All of your successes are a reflection not only of you, but also of what other people have done for you. team that assisted the staff at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in preventing the transmission of the highly drugresistant bacteria that was causing the infection. Another headline-making case involved investigation into sight-threatening eye infections that Dr. Srinivasan

helped trace back to contaminated contact lens solution; millions of bottles of the product were recalled worldwide.

Dr. Srinivasan has also been called upon to offer preventative techniques in high-risk situations and to provide leadership in times of immediate and widespread crisis. He was temporarily deployed to Athens, Greece, to prepare for public health emergencies that could arise during the 2004 Olympic games, and was asked to develop guidelines for those providing medical care to victims of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and to victims of Hurricane Katrina.

“The best part of this job is seeing the impact of our team’s work,” Dr. Srinivasan says. “Take the case of the contact lens solution. Every one of those millions of bottles of solution recalled represented a potential infection prevented. When the impact of your work can be clearly seen and measured, it’s very real and very gratifying.”

While the job demands medical expertise, it also calls for exceptional leadership and people skills.

“Not only are you trying to trace the cause of an outbreak, you’re also trying to keep everyone affected by the outbreak calm,” Dr. Srinivasan says.

“These are stressful situations, and part of the job is to stop the finger-point-

As a St. Andrew’s junior, Arjun Srinivasan won a statewide science fair award and was selected to present his project at an international science fair in Puerto Rico. He collaborated with doctors at the University of Mississippi Medical Center on the project, which involved the activity of enzymes in a type of bacteria.

A Symptom of Things to Come

10

T h e S r i n i v asa n F i l e Professional Service

June 2006 - present Response Team Leader, Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion National Center for Infectious Diseases Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia July 2003 – present Adjunct Assistant Professor of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases Emory University Medical Center Atlanta, Georgia June 2003 – June 2006 Medical Epidemiologist Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion National Center for Infectious Diseases Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Atlanta, Georgia

Dr. Arjun Srinivasan with his wife, Dr. Linda Wolfenden, mother, Seetha Srinivasan, son, Jackson Srinivasan, and father, Dr. Asoka Srinivasan

July 2001 – June 2003 Assistant Professor of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

ing and keep people focused on the goal, which is determining why something happened, figuring out how to stop it, and making changes that will prevent it from happening again.”

Dr. Srinivasan’s natural gift and passion for his work is obvious. But while he has had a lifelong aptitude for biological science, he credits St. Andrew’s Episcopal School with providing the mentoring that initially sparked his excitement for the field.

“Dan Rose, my freshman biology teacher, made the subject exciting to me,” Dr. Srinivasan recalls. “A student can have a natural proclivity for a subject, but to be matched with a teacher who makes that subject come alive for the student is key. When you’re mentored by a teacher, the lessons you learn go beyond the class you’re taking or the project you’re working on. They become life lessons that continue to affect you long after you graduate.”

The life lesson Dr. Srinivasan recalls most vividly is St. Andrew’s emphasis on service. One of his proudest moments from high school was receiving the St. Andrew’s Medal for Unselfish Service.

“The idea of giving back to others is still a fundamental part of my life.

That’s part of the reason I chose a career in public health service,” says Dr. Srinivasan. “When I look back over my body of work, there have been so many investigations, and every one of them has been gratifying because we’ve helped people in the real world.”

Founding Director, Antibiotic Management Program Associate Hospital Epidemiologist Johns Hopkins Hospital Baltimore, Maryland Awards/Public Recognition

Recipient of 15 awards for public health service, as well as numerous awards for excellence in the medical field and for scholarship in undergraduate and medical school Author of more than 43 publications in peer-reviewed journals Speaker at more than 60 local, national, and international medical conferences Education

Infectious Diseases Fellowship Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, Maryland Internship and Residency in Internal Medicine Sir William Osler Internal Medicine Residency Program Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, Maryland M.D., Vanderbilt University School of Medicine Nashville, Tennessee Alpha Omega Alpha Albert Kaufman Award for Humanity, presented to the graduate who has best demonstrated qualities of humanity and compassion in medicine B.S. in biology, Davidson College Davidson, North Carolina Magna cum laude graduate, honors in biology, Phi Beta Kappa Rhodes Scholarship Finalist Family

Married to Dr. Linda Wolfenden, a pulmonologist specializing in adult cystic fibrosis at Emory University Two sons, six-year-old Jackson and three-year-old Joseph

11

Will dickson and his wife, Kasey, outside Air Force One

from St. Andrew’s to the

Secret Service Will Dickson ’94 • St. Andrew’s 2010 Young Alumnus of the Year It’s not surprising that Will Dickson’s favorite TV shows include Manhunters: Fugitive Task Force, America’s Most Wanted, and Burn Notice, or that his list of mostwatched films is topped by Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, and the Bourne series.

For Dickson, such programming is more than just entertaining; it’s semi-biographical. Will Dickson is a special agent with the United States Secret Service, currently assigned to the protective detail for former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter in Plains, Georgia.

“The Secret Service is an elite group and there’s a certain mystique about it,”

Dickson says. “But like any job, there are eventful and not-so-eventful days.

There are days when you’re stuck in the office doing paperwork. But then, there are days when you’re present to witness history being made.”

The Secret Service performs dual roles, with its agents alternating between investigative assignments and protective details. While the work is varied and many details of the agency’s missions are classified, Dickson has a simple answer for those who ask what he does for a living.

“I am a preventer,” Dickson says. “I prevent bad things from happening.”

Dickson earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in administration of justice from Mississippi College. He was working for the Mississippi Gaming Commission when he applied for a position with the Secret Service, a decision that almost earned him “a slap upside the head” from his wife, Kasey.

The position required a top-secret security clearance.

“They talk to your family, your friends, and your neighbors,” Dickson says. “I’m still not sure how deep they dug, but they let you know they’re going way back into your history. Special agents see and hear a lot of things the

The Young Alumnus of the Year

The Distinguished Young Alumnus Award recognizes and celebrates the achievements of alumni who have made a major contribution to the community, arts, sciences, or business. Alumni must have graduated from St. Andrew’s within the past 15 years to be eligible for nomination.

12

D {alumni awards}

“St. Andrew’s gave me a great foundation not only academically, but also morally and ethically. There’s a real emphasis on right and wrong there. I’m an Alpha Omega graduate, so from pre-K through 12th grade, St. Andrew’s offered me a fine education, which is not to say that I took full advantage of it.” general public doesn’t need to know, and they want to be sure you’re worthy of trust and confidence.”

Training for the Secret Service included instruction in an array of investigative and protective skills. In addition to advanced weapons training and demanding physical training, Dickson learned new ways to operate a motor vehicle, including both pursuit driving and vehicular maneuvers he describes as “learning how to get out of the way. Fast.”

Dickson completed training in 2001 and was assigned to the Secret Service’s Miami field office, later serving in the Jackson, Mississippi, resident office. His work has included domestic and international investigations into counterfeiting, financial crimes, and drug-related crimes, as well as intelligence investigations involving threats against persons under Secret Service protection.

Dickson has conducted numerous presidential and vice presidential advance security sweeps. He worked the protective detail for Mrs. John Kerry during the 2004 election and for John McCain in 2007. Over the past year, Dickson has accompanied former President Carter and Mrs. Carter to Ghana, the Dominican Republic,Turkey,Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Qatar. His current assignment is intense yet simple – keep former President Carter and Mrs. Carter safe.

Dickson has traveled to some 30 countries, met with countless heads of state, and had many adventures as a special agent – most of which he doesn’t discuss. He does say that one of his favorite assignments was a stint with the U.S. Marshall Service Fugitive Task

Force in Jackson, which involved the pursuit and capture of dozens of violent fugitives. Another career highlight came in 2004, when Dickson was named Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida.

The award came in conjunction with one of the first high-profile identity theft cases of its kind in the country.

Thanks to Dickson’s work, the thieves were prosecuted and potential losses in the hundreds of millions were averted.

But the achievement of which Special Agent Dickson is most proud involved battling an enemy from within. In 2008, unexplained weight loss and a knot in his neck Dickson had attributed to an old injury were diagnosed as stage 3 Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Six weeks after Will Dickson was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, his mother, Sue, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Today, both mother and son are in remission.

“At age 32, nothing could have prepared me to hear the words, ‘You have cancer,’” Dickson recalls. “It scared me so bad, I started shaking to the point I looked like I was having a seizure.

The worst thing about it was that my baby daughter, London, was only a year old. I didn’t want my daughter to grow up hearing, ‘Your daddy would have been so proud of you.’”

13

Dickson underwent seven months of grueling chemotherapy. While he missed a day of work here and there, he never took a leave of absence from his job as a special agent. He attributes much of his strength during the exhaustive chemo treatments to his wife.

“Kasey was by my side during every treatment,” Dickson says. “She never let me get discouraged. Instead, she reminded me that it wasn’t my place to ask, ‘why me?’

“It was a very harrowing, humbling experience,” Dickson continues. “Cancer changed me. I was just going along, doing this macho job, on top of the world, then God brought me back to reality. He reminded me of what’s really important.”

Dickson finished the chemo treatments in October of 2008, and has been in remission ever since. Today, he’s on the job as an investigator, protector, and preventer, and looking forward to the birth of his second child in November.

When asked to name his favorite quotation, Dickson cites several, their sources ranging from Sir Winston Churchill to Friedrich Nietzsche, from the movie classic Heartbreak Ridge to the Bible. One of his favorites is the following scripture, which seems especially appropriate given Dickson’s profession.

“The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the inequities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men.

Blessed is he who, in the name of charity and good will, shepherds the weak through the valley of darkness, for he is truly his brother’s keeper and the finder of lost children.” Ezekiel 25:17

Chris Rollins surveying for the Galana River Bridge in Kenya

building the road

Less traveled Chris Rollins ’87 • Recipient of the 2010 Saints in Service Award Chris Rollins’ career has been a study in taking the road less traveled, and in many cases, in actually building that less-traveled road himself.

Rollins is a self-employed engineering consultant based in Lilongwe, Malawi, where he handles engineering and construction projects in remote areas of eastern and southern Africa. His project emphases are ecolodges and other income-generating projects in remote locations that require construction management, water supply purification, electricity, and waste management expertise.

“I look for projects that are challenging, interesting, remote, and in some

way beneficial, usually to the local community or some marginalized group,” Rollins says.

His path to Malawi was a winding one. Following his graduation from St. Andrew’s, Rollins attended the University of Pennsylvania, but found it to be a less-than-ideal fit.

“I was pretty disturbed by the wealth and arrogance of the place, not to mention what I perceived as the utter meaninglessness of the consumer culture I was being groomed for,” Rollins recalls. “It didn’t seem to me at the time that a degree was all that relevant to an education in humanities. I left halfway through.”

From 1989 to 1991, Rollins roamed the country as a migrant agricultural worker, planting trees and “doing a lot of hitchhiking and just talking to people.” He bought a motorcycle and lived on it for a year, traveling and exploring the country. Eventually, Rollins returned to the University of Pennsylvania, but found that he still “didn’t have any motivation for a normal path through life as described in the brochure.” He completed the coursework, but left the university one language proficiency test short of a degree.

Rollins spent the next few years in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where he found work in carpentry and the construc-

The Saints in Service Award

This award recognizes an alumnus who demonstrates exceptional service to others and has made a positive difference in his or her community. Alumni must have graduated from St. Andrew’s eight or more years ago to be eligible for nomination.

14

R {alumni awards}

Maximum Impact, Minimum Wage

“Last year, I worked with an American missionary to build a 112m footbridge over the Galana River in Eastern Kenya. It was a huge technical challenge, provided safe access across the river to the impoverished Orma and Garyama people, and came with a great river camp we retired to every evening, complete with hot food and cold beverages. That was my dream job. I worked for free with only my expenses covered. At the end, the missionary gave me $1,000 for the effort. I think my wage worked out to about $2 per hour.” tion trades, but confesses that his primary focus was skiing and rock climbing. Then, on a trip to Japan in 1996, Rollins finally discovered his calling. He worked on the construction of a “2x4 house” in Japan, a house built using construction techniques that made it more earthquake resistant.

Realizing he wanted to stay in innovative construction but “move up in the hierarchy somehow,” Rollins returned to the United States and enrolled in an architectural engineering program in Wyoming.

“That was the wisest thing I ever did.

My engineering education has opened up more opportunities to me than I ever imagined,” Rollins says. “My original goal after Japan was to work in high paying countries and spend my time exploring and helping in poor countries, but somehow that got flipped around.”

After reading an article in National Geographic about a group that repaired a footbridge over a river in Ethiopia and the bridge’s impact on the people in the area, Rollins contacted Bridges to Prosperity, a volunteer-based charity that empowers poor African, Asian, and South American communities by building bridges that lead to markets, clinics, schools, and jobs. The group sent Rollins to Nepal to study a footbridge project and replicate it in Ethiopia. That project soon led to others in Africa, where Rollins has since established a fulltime career as a freelance engineering consultant.

One of his projects led Rollins to

Rwanda, where he collaborated on a project with Antje Ilberg, an urban planning advisor working for the German Development Service. The collaboration was successful in more ways than one; today Rollins and Ilberg are married with a two-year-old daughter, Ada.

Chris Rollins’ latest project, the Tongole Wildlife Lodge, is scheduled to open in September 2010. For a sneak peek at the lodge, visit www.tongole.com.

Rollins’ work is a combination of higher-paying jobs that support the family and volunteer or lower-paying projects that have a high impact on local communities. Recent projects include a 370-foot footbridge over the Galana River in eastern Kenya; a $4,000 “model home” constructed of compressed earth blocks in Kigali, Rwanda; and his current project, the Tongole Wildlife Lodge, a community-based, four-star ecolodge in the Nkhotkota Wildlife Reserve in central Malawi. A typical day might find Rollins negotiating with vendors for hard-to-source parts or supplies, handling quality control on a building site, trying to design an affordable, environmentally sound 15

electrical system for a lodge deep in the wilderness, or explaining a few design basics to the children who often show up at his work sites.

“I always enjoy the children on my projects. Anywhere in Africa there are hundreds of kids, and they always make the work more interesting, especially now that I can bring Ada along,” Rollins says. “There’s nothing better than bringing a two-year-old to an engineering meeting. I’m eager to see what interests she develops after eavesdropping on all these conversations about water systems and photovoltaics.”

While he does return to the United States from time to time, for the foreseeable future, Rollins and his family see their lives unfolding in Africa.

“My wife has her Ph.D. in urban planning issues in sub-Saharan cities, and my environmental engineering master’s thesis is on ecolodge engineering in eastern and southern Africa, so it is likely our careers will keep us here for a long time,” Rollins says. “We have a lot of friends around the continent and a network for more projects, which is really necessary for an independent consultant. I have several projects on the horizon, mostly in Malawi and Kenya, but you never know what’s coming next.”

It’s that tantalizing prospect of what might come next that originally led Chris Rollins to Africa. Fortunately for the communities he serves, in Chris Rollins’ case, what has come next has typically been something for the greater good.

Coach Roach discusses the finer points of Voltaire’s Candide with his 10th grade history students.

“When I think of St. Andrew’s,

I think of home.”

Dan Roach ’78 • Inaugural Recipient of the St. Andrew’s Loyalty Award

It’s been more than three decades since Dan Roach accepted his diploma, but in his heart, Roach has never left St. Andrew’s. His loyalty to the school as a student, alumnus, parent, teacher, coach, and friend have earned Roach recognition as the inaugural recipient of the St. Andrew’s Loyalty Award.

As a student, Roach was a cast member in several St. Andrew’s theatrical productions, as well as a four-year letterman on the football team. The vice president of his senior class, Roach recalls one less-than-laudable distinction between the class of 1978 and all those that came before and after it.

“The members of the class of ’78 were so collectively rowdy and obnoxious that to this day, we hold the inglorious distinction of being the only senior class in school history denied the privilege of electing a Mr. and Miss St. Andrew’s,” Roach says with a wry smile. “Apparently, no one was deemed worthy.”

Roach graduated from Sewanee: the University of the South in 1982 with a degree in history. Over the next 16 years, he held teaching and coaching positions at Madison-Ridgeland Academy and Jackson Prep, and also tried his hand as a retail buyer for a major discount chain and as marketing direc-

tor for a human resources firm. But despite his successes elsewhere, Roach could not ignore the call of his beloved alma mater.

“In 1998, I returned to St. Andrew’s as a prodigal son. Dave Wood, our head of school at the time, was kind enough to offer me the chance to teach and coach at my alma mater,” Roach says. “The word that immediately comes to mind when I think of St. Andrew’s is home. As the poet Robert Frost once observed, ‘Home is that place where, when you go there, they have to take you in.’”

Today, Roach serves St. Andrew’s as

The St. Andrew’s Loyalty Award

Created in 2010, the St. Andrew’s Loyalty Award honors an alumnus who, in deed or action, reflects and recognizes the importance of being a St. Andrew’s alumnus, who demonstrates pride in his or her alma mater, and whose interests and loyalty are evident by his or her significant, notable, and meritorious contributions toward the advancement of St. Andrew’s Episcopal School.

16

R {alumni awards}

“A Roach by Any Other Name…”

“Perhaps the greatest compliment I have ever been paid as a teacher and coach occurred one day as I was walking through the library. One of our varsity football players stopped me to inquire as to the source of a quote from Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

I was struck by the thought, ‘Where else but St. Andrew’s would a football coach be stopped by one of his players asking a question about Shakespeare and actually be expected to know the correct answer?’ For the record, I did not know the correct answer, but told the player that I thought it might be Polonius and that he should check to verify it. He informed me later that I was, in fact, wrong, but that I had come pretty darn close to being right. I believe that he was just being kind.”

Upper School dean of students, Upper School history teacher, assistant coach for the varsity football program, head coach for the boys’ and girls’ powerlifting teams, and co-sponsor of the St. Andrew’s Peer Leadership Program.

Roach also served as assistant coach for the boys’ track team when his sons, Patrick and Andrew, were team members, pointing out that although it wasn’t part of his contract, “I figured since my sons were running track I would be out there anyway, so why not help out where I might be needed?”

Roach is a member of the St. Andrew’s alumni advisory board and an active volunteer with many school programs and events. A regular volunteer for the Annual Fund phone-a-thon, Roach admits that he is always eager to help because the phone-a-thon affords him the opportunity to reconnect with former classmates and fellow alumni “on the school’s dime.”

But while Roach serves St. Andrew’s as an alumnus, teacher, coach, and volunteer, his most cherished role at the school is that of parent. He and his wife, Holli, are the proud parents of a second generation of Saints in Patrick ’06, Andrew ’08, Madalyn (ninth grade), and Jace (second grade). “What tremendous satisfaction it has brought

me to be able to teach and coach where my children attend school, and to have had the chance to coach my own sons in football, power-lifting, and track,” Roach says. “Each morning, I have the pleasure of a conversation with our daughter Madalyn as I drive to work – although I seriously doubt that she enjoys the company as much as I do. I also have the joy of anticipating repeating all of these experiences with our youngest son, Jace.

“The word that immediately comes to mind when I think of St. Andrew’s is home.

As the poet Robert Frost once observed, ‘Home is that place where, when you go there, they have to take you in.’”

“People sometimes ask why it was so important to me to send my children to my alma mater,” Roach continues. “The better question is why wouldn’t I choose to send my children to St. Andrew’s?

Not only for the exceptional academic offerings, but even more so for the 17

opportunities they’ve had to forge the types of relationships with their peers and teachers that have meant so much to me.”

Those relationships he’s forged within the St. Andrew’s community are a great source of pride and happiness for Dan Roach.

“I take immense pleasure from visits at the annual alumni Christmas party and at weddings, or from those chance encounters when former students or players bring me up to date on their lives and the remarkable things they’ve done since they ventured out into the world from our small, sheltered campus. These reminders affirm my faith in the mission of St. Andrew’s, and reinforce my confidence in our next generations of alumni.”

While his decades-long dedication to the school makes Dan Roach the ideal recipient for the first St. Andrew’s Loyalty Award, Roach credits much of his own success over the past 32 years back to St. Andrew’s.

“I owe most of whatever I have become in large measure to the influences of the teachers and schoolmates whose enduring friendships touched my life,” Roach says. “This award means a lot, but it’s been the school’s loyalty to me that has meant the most.”

{institutional advancement}

about St. Andrew’s Bigfoot prowls the forests of the Pacific Northwest.

The Loch Ness Monster hides in the depths of a lake in Scotland.

Space aliens crash landed in Roswell, New Mexico.

St. Andrew’s is only for rich kids with genius-level IQs. The trouble with myths that find their way into the popular culture is that they’re often as hard to disprove as they are to prove. For example, while anyone has yet to prove that Bigfoot really is hiding in that forest, it’s hard to prove that he isn’t there, either. Fortunately, some myths can be laid to rest with documented facts. Following are some common myths about St. Andrew’s Episcopal School and the facts that prove the real truth about these misconceptions.

MYTH:

St. Andrew’s is only for rich kids.

FACT:

St. Andrew’s tuition is in line with other private and/or independent schools in Mississippi and is much lower than schools offering a comparable educational experience in other states. St. Andrew’s financial aid program makes it possible for many students with

limited financial resources to attend the school. In fact, 18 percent of St. Andrew’s students receive some level of tuition assistance.

MYTH:

St. Andrew’s is only for students with genius-level IQs.

18

FACT:

St. Andrew’s is the right school for students who are willing to work hard and engage in their own learning. St. Andrew’s understands that different students have different learning styles.

Our teachers are experienced in identifying which styles work best for which students, and in using varied teaching techniques to get the best results for

{institutional advancement}

each child. Every student is not expected to ace every subject. In fact, St. Andrew’s offers learning facilitators to help students with specific academic subjects they find challenging, and Middle and Upper School teachers are available for extra help as needed every day after school.

St. Andrew’s students are proud of their academic accomplishments and encourage one another to excel in the classroom. With peers who support and respect academic success, students across the board tend to perform at a higher level. Even so, the atmosphere at St. Andrew’s is not one of pressure; students are relaxed and confident.

Students don’t have to be geniuses to succeed at St. Andrew’s. They just have to be willing to do their best.

MYTH:

MYTH:

St. Andrew’s is not a Christian school.

Student athletes don’t have as many opportunities at St. Andrew’s.

MYTH:

St. Andrew’s is only for Episcopalians.

FACT:

St. Andrew’s is an Episcopal school with weekly chapel services. As an embodiment of the Christian faith, St. Andrew’s honors and worships God as the center of life and strives to be a model of God’s love and grace. However, St. Andrew’s was not founded to serve only Christians. In keeping with the Episcopal tradition, St. Andrew’s is inclusive and open-minded, supportive of the faiths and beliefs of others. St. Andrew’s is a close-knit community of students, parents, and teachers of many faiths and cultures. Supporting and encouraging this diversity is a hallmark of the St. Andrew’s mission.

FACT:

Some 65 percent of St. Andrew’s Upper School students participate in at least one of the school’s 17 sports programs.

The school has claimed state and district championships in sports including soccer, tennis, cross-country, and track, and is one of only two schools in Mississippi to field a lacrosse team. The Clarion Ledger recognized St. Andrew’s as having Mississippi’s Best All-Around 2-A Sports Program for 15 of the last 18 years. The school’s recent move to Division 3A offers even more opportunities for serious student athletes to compete against their peers statewide.

MYTH:

St. Andrew’s students are all the same – there’s no diversity in the student body.

FACT:

The St. Andrew’s student body includes white, African-American, Asian, Indian, Hispanic, and multi-racial children.

Approximately 20 percent of the students at St. Andrew’s are students of color. At St. Andrew’s, diversity is celebrated and students are accepting, open to befriending people of many backgrounds.

MYTH: MYTH:

St. Andrew’s is too small.

St Andrew’s encourages its students to leave Mississippi.

FACT:

FACT:

While many St. Andrew’s students do choose to attend out-of-state colleges, many stay in Mississippi. On average, 47 percent of St. Andrew’s graduates choose an in-state university, with 17 percent attending college in a contiguous state and 36 percent heading farther from home.

Enrollment for the 2010-11 school year is nearly 1,200. Even in challenging economic times, St. Andrew’s is growing. Student attrition is at an alltime low; families that choose St. Andrew’s tend to stay with St. Andrew’s.

In fact, 57 percent of the Class of 2010 is Alpha Omega students, enrolled at St. Andrew’s since the first grade.

The best people to counter a myth about a particular place are those who are intimately involved with that place.

St. Andrew’s students, parents, alumni, and friends are in the best position to help dispel myths by offering these facts about St. Andrew’s. If, however, you run into someone who claims to have seen a mysterious creature prowling the woods near the North Campus, a serpent-like head and neck rising above the waters of Lake Sherwood Wise, or flying saucers soaring over Highland Colony Parkway, you’re on your own.

19

{institutional advancement}

Smart.

D ow n to a Sc i e n c e .

St. Andrew’s has launched an ambitious, $6.3 million capital campaign to build a new science facility and to renovate the existing science rooms as an expanded space for the Middle and Upper School arts program.

A Smart Building

Functional, environmentally friendly, and aesthetically pleasing, the new science facility will literally be a smart building.

Designed by Dean & Dean/Associates Architects PA, this state-of-the-art, 21,000 square foot facility will include six well-equipped biology, chemistry, and physics labs; three multipurpose classrooms; a lecture hall; staging areas for long-term research projects; and gathering areas in which students and faculty can hold brainstorming and

research-sharing sessions. The ecofriendly building will incorporate sustainable materials, energy-efficient features, and a greenhouse, and will serve as a real-world lesson in green design and function.

The building has been designed in response to its site. Materials used in the construction will complement existing structures on campus, giving the entire project an organic look and feel. The building will make the bowl – the plazalike space anchored by the chapel, the Commons, and soon by the new science building – the center of interaction on campus.

The science building is part of the master plan for the St. Andrew’s Episcopal School campus. Developed by the board of trustees in 2006, the master 20

plan reflects the long-term vision for the school and the optimum development of the St. Andrew’s campus over the next 25 years.

Art Made Smart

The existing science classrooms on the St. Andrew’s North Campus will be redesigned as an imaginative yet functional space for the visual arts.

The renovation will create spacious, airy art studios with plenty of natural light for painting, drawing, and sculpting, as well as a large, dedicated area for ceramics. Specially-designed exhibition areas will feature wall surfaces and lighting chosen specifically for showcasing students’ work, while large windows will allow other students and visitors on campus to watch as new art

is created. A sculpture garden and outdoor work space will not only benefit art students, but will also enhance the beauty of the North Campus.

The physically larger space will allow expansion of the visual arts program.

Plans include the addition of new courses, including more classes in traditional painting, drawing, and sculpture, as well as classes in ceramics, photography, and newer artistic fields like digital media and graphic design.

Open studio space will enable art students or faculty members to work on long-term projects in various media.

The re-imagined space will be a creative setting that will inspire both casual students and serious artists, and will offer new opportunities for artistic expression on the St. Andrew’s campus.

Smart Leadership St. Andrew’s is honored to have Joan and

H. C. “Buster” Bailey as the honorary co-chairs of the Campaign for Science and Art. Buster has served as president of H. C. Bailey Company, a successful real estate development firm, since 1969. Joan Bailey enjoyed a career as a therapist and was instrumental in the founding of both the Women’s Fund and Hospice of Central Mississippi.

Smart Timing

Without the Baileys’ support, St. Andrew’s literally would not

“The decision to embark on this project was not made lightly,” George Penick, head of school, says. “The board of trustees is well aware of the current challenging economy, but our long-term vision for the school remains the same in challenging times and in flourishing times. We’re confident we have the support needed to continue our plans for the future of St. Andrew’s and our students.”

Currently in its pre-public phase, the Campaign for Science and Art will officially launch in the fall of 2010. If construction goes according to plan, the new science building and renovated art space should open for classes in the fall of 2011.

For more information or to discuss a gift to the Campaign for Science and Art, please contact Rebecca Hiatt Collins, director of institutional advancement, at 601.853.6029 or rebeccac@gosaints.org.

be where it is today. More than 20 years ago, Buster Bailey led the ambitious fund-raising drive that resulted in the purchase of the land on which the North Campus now stands, and the Bailey family contributed $1 million toward making the envisioned campus a reality.

The Baileys’ long history of service to St. Andrew’s also includes being honorary co-chairs of the Designer Showhouse, coordinating fund-raisers, and serving as the host family for two Japanese exchange students. Buster served on the St. Andrew’s board of trustees and Joan volunteered in many hands-on capacities when the couple’s children, Leigh and Coyt, were students at St. Andrew’s.

“Our family has been blessed and gifted by St. Andrew’s, and Buster and I are honored to have this opportunity to help lead a campaign that means so much to the future of the school,” Joan Bailey says. “St. Andrew’s has always felt like home to us. It’s a place we dearly love and a mission we wholeheartedly believe in.”

21

{institutional advancement}

Annual Fund Goal:

$500,000

100% a n d

Participation Are You in the Giving Percentage?

When it comes to the St. Andrew’s Annual Fund, every dollar counts. But equally important is every current St. Andrew’s family’s participation.

As the month of March drew to a close, the total raised for the 2009-10 Annual Fund had reached $415,974, which is 83 percent of the overall goal of $500,000. Fifty percent of current St. Andrew’s families had pledged their support to the Annual Fund, leaving half of families still not committed.

Since every student at St. Andrew’s benefits from the Annual Fund, participating families are, in essence, covering the gap for those children whose families have not yet pledged their support.

“We would love to make 2010 the year we celebrate 100 percent partici-

pation in the Annual Fund,” says Frances Jean Neely, St. Andrew’s director of annual giving. “One donation may seem small, but combined with other gifts, it can make a tremendous difference. And when you give, you’re not only showing your commitment to St. Andrew’s, but also to your own children.”

Annual Fund Participation Rates by Class* Class of 2023 – PK4 – 60% Class of 2022 – K – 51% Class of 2021 – 1st grade – 53% Class of 2020 – 2nd grade – 54% Class of 2019 – 3rd grade – 54% Class of 2018 – 4th grade – 65%

Help St. Andrew’s reach the 100 percent mark.

Class of 2017 – 5th grade – 51%

If you haven’t already made your pledge to the Annual Fund, please do so today. Remember, every dollar counts, no gift is too small, and you have until June 15 to fulfill your pledge. Please contact Frances Jean Neely, director of annual giving, at 601.853.6014 or visit www.gosaints.org to make your secure pledge.

Class of 2016 – 6th grade – 56% Class of 2015 – 7th grade – 51% Class of 2014 – 8th grade – 46% Class of 2013 – 9th grade – 56% Class of 2012 – 10th grade – 46% Class of 2011 – 11th grade – 51% Class of 2010 – 12th grade – 46% *As of March 26, 2010

$100, the Annual Fund would increase by $46,200. If every current family who has not yet pledged gave $150, St. Andrew’s would reach its goal of $500,000 and its goal of 100 percent participation.

If every current family who has not yet pledged gave just

22

{institutional advancement}

A $57,785 renovation to the Lower School computer lab is just one of the many projects made possible by the Annual Fund.

Show Me the Money Recent enhancements made possible through the Annual Fund include: Professional Development for Faculty and Staff Art Room Equipment • Pre-K Lofts • Lower School Computer Lab Renovation • Lower School Language Texts Reading Specialist • Gym Landscaping • Upper School Projection System • Security Cameras

Thanks to St. Andrew’s 2009-2010 Annual Fund Leadership Team Overall Annual Fund Chairs Karen and Mike Rodgers Pre-K 4 Laney and Jason Watkins K Mary Linley and Andrew Sweat Grade 1 Melissa and Robert Hutchison

Grade 5 Susan and Vernon King Grade 6 Lorna and Tom Chain Grade 7 Kim and David Waddell Grade 8 Alice and William Harper Grade 9 Pat and Claude Brunson

Grade 2 Beth and Tom Black

Grade 10 Beverly and Monte Luehlfing

Grade 3 Alison and Luke Abney

Grade 11 Susan and Mark Fijman

Grade 4 Erin and Steven Chevalier

Grade 12 Catherine Sullivan 23

1947 Society Chairman Patty Christie Grandparent Chairman Richard McRae Parent of Graduate Chairman

Andrew Mallinson Upper School Faculty Chairman Julia Chadwick Middle School Faculty Chairman Ruthie Hollis Lower School Faculty Chairman Leanna Owens

MERIT

St. Andrew’s Boasts the Highest Number of National Merit and Achievement Finalists in Mississippi

E

ighteen members of the St. Andrew’s class of 2010 have been recognized as National Merit Finalists, the highest number of any school in the state, regardless of class size. St. Andrew’s also has three students who qualified as National Achievement Finalists.

While St. Andrew’s has previously claimed the highest percentage of students earning the honor, other schools with larger classes have sometimes

claimed a higher number of finalists.

Not this year. More than 23 percent of the class qualified as National Merit or National Achievement Semifinalists, with every single student who was recognized as a semifinalist advancing to finalist status.

Of the 1.5 million students who take the tests, some 50,000 with the highest PSAT/NMSQT scores in critical reading, mathematics, and writing skills qualify for recognition in the Nation-

24

al Merit Scholarship Program. The National Achievement Scholarship Program recognizes outstanding African American students.

“Obviously, we’re very proud of our students and of our faculty members who helped them prepare,” says Head of School George Penick. “Typically, National Merit Finalists are offered substantial college scholarships, so the honor brings very tangible rewards for our students as well as accolades for St. Andrew’s.”

{ a c a d e m i c s }

Congratulations to the members of the class of 2010 recognized as National Merit or National Achievement Finalists.

(Standing from left) Apas Aggarwal, Aditya Gulanikar, Timothy Hopper, Cameron Ray, Connor Buechler, Jonathan Tingle, Timothy Crook, Divya Shenoy, Amelia Senter, Carrie Sweet, Aubrey Threadgill, and (sitting, from left) Monica Pani, Angeline Jefferson, Shannon Jenkins, Claire Hines, Hannah Sills, Avery Burrell, Alexandra Jones, Shruti Jaishankar, and Briana Saddler (Saddler is both a National Merit Finalist and National Achievement Finalist).

Gabby Merritt ’09 Recognized as AP State Scholar

The 2009 female AP State Scholar is Gabby Merritt, now a student at the University of Pennsylvania. In 1993 the College Board began distinguishing AP State Scholars, the one male and one female high school student in each state and the District of Columbia with grades of 3 or higher (with 5 being the highest) on the greatest number of exams, and also the highest average grade (at least 3.5) on all AP Exams taken. Of the 34 students recognized as Mississippi AP State Scholars since the distinction was established, 31 have been St. Andrew’s students.

5 students in the St. Andrew’s class of 2009 were recognized as National AP Scholars by earning an average grade of 4 or higher on at least eight AP Exams. • 9 students qualified as Scholars with Distinction • 10 qualified as Scholars with Honor • 23 qualified as AP Scholars • 47 students were named 2009 Advanced Placement Scholars by the College Board due to their exceptional performance on AP Exams. Globally, only 14% of all students who take an AP Exam AP Scholars by the Numbers:

qualify to be recognized as an AP Scholar. 35% of St. Andrew’s students who took an AP exam last year qualified as AP Scholars.

25

{ a c a d e m i c s }

I

cornering the market

f you’re thinking of investing in the stock market, perhaps you should consult a St. Andrew’s student for advice. A savvy team of St. Andrew’s students won the fall 2009 Mississippi Stock Market Game sponsored by the Mississippi Council for Economic Education (MCEE), finishing first out of 564 teams from around the state.

The Stock Market Game is a simulation of a real market designed to involve students in the world of finance and investing and teach them how a market economy works. Student teams invest a hypothetical $100,000 in stocks and compete for the best portfolio performance. Winners in the online competition are chosen based on the percentage by which they beat the market.

The winning team of Blake Luehlfing, Patrick McKee, and Meredith Blackwell, all members of the class of 2012, were given a 10-week trading period in which to hone and prove their investing skills. The St. Andrew’s team grew

an initial investment of $100,000 into $148,798 and earned returns of more than 41 percent above the Standard and Poor’s Index.

The game continues with new competitors throughout the spring. If no other team tops the St. Andrew’s team’s performance, Luehlfing, McKee, and Blackwell will win the grand prize, a trip to New York City.

Prior to this fall’s win, St. Andrew’s students had already established a strong track record in the competition.

The spring 2009 competition saw St. Andrew’s sweep four of the top five awards. The team of Joy Goel ’10 and Jonathan Tingle ’10 finished first in the state, with other St. Andrew’s teams

placing second, third, and fourth. A St. Andrew’s Middle School team placed second in the junior division of the fall 2008 competition.

“The Stock Market Game is a great opportunity for our students to engage in an economic activity that’s not only fun, but also builds financial literacy and competencies for the future,” says Dr. Chris Harth, director of global studies. “When these students have the opportunity to invest real money in the real market, they’ll be knowledgeable and confident of their investing skills.

This is one educational experience that definitely pays off. No pun intended.”

“I really enjoyed watching the stocks rise and fall, and the feelings of suspense and anticipation over how a stock might perform,” says winning team member Meredith Blackwell. “Of course, the game allowed me to take more and greater risks than I would in the real market, but I definitely feel more comfortable with the idea of investing than I did before the game.”

Above: Winning team members Patrick McKee, Blake Luehlfing, and Meredith Blackwell 26

Curtaino calls

27

Tall Tales and Heroes

Sweeney Todd

1

5

6

Mulan

Wackadoo Zoo

Once Upon This Island

7

All I Want For Christmas

2

28

8

3

4

Dracula

The Granny Awards

1. Lauren Tanaka as Calamity Jane / 2. Londoners gather to witness Sweeney Todd’s superior skills with his razor 3. Gray Welch as the Count / 4. Jace Rasmussen as the Big Bad Wolf / 5. Avery Gerrets and Emily Herrington as little pigs 6. Jack Harth as Ling / 7. John Mychal Warren as Santa’s Helper / 8. Christina Light as Agwe the God of Water

Sweeney Todd

The Upper School players brought Sweeney Todd, Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler’s chilling, suspenseful, heart-pounding, musical theatre masterpiece to vivid life this spring. This performance of murderous “barberism” and culinary crime tells the infamous tale of Sweeney Todd, the unjustly exiled barber who returns to 19th century London seeking revenge against the lecherous judge who framed him and took his young wife and child.

Todd’s thirst for blood expands to include his unfortunate customers, while the resourceful proprietress of the pie shop downstairs soon has the people of London lining up to sample her meat pies, which are simply to die for.

With the players performing for enthusiastic, sold-out crowds, Sweeney Todd has become the most successful St. Andrew’s stage production in the history of the school. Special accolades go to director Ray McFarland and musical director Libby Walden, as well as the actors and crew members who worked many late nights to ensure that this challenging musical was executed in a manner befitting such top-shelf material.

Bravo!

Dracula

Tall Tales and Heroes

The Upper SchoolTheatre Department, director Ray McFarland, and players on stage and behind the scenes transported audiences to the dark side with their highly acclaimed production of Dracula. This new adaptation restored the suspense and dramatic flair of Bram Stoker’s classic novel to the stage. Rich with humor and horror, Dracula painted a delightfully wicked picture of Stoker’s infamous vampire.

Fourth graders impressed their peers and parents with a flawless production of Tall Tales and Heroes.

Wackadoo Zoo

First graders enchanted their peers and parents alike with their production of Wackadoo Zoo, a rousing parable about social intolerance.

All I Want for Christmas

Second graders delighted audiences with their production of All I Want for Christmas, a heartfelt examination of the true meaning of the season.

The Granny Awards

Third graders reminded audiences of the importance of Granny and the Big Bad Wolf to the fairy tale tradition with a charming production of The Granny Awards.

29

Mulan

Fifth and sixth grade students used their combined talents to transport audiences to ancient China with a captivating performance of Mulan directed

by Mark McNeil with musical direction by Anna Johnson. In this heartwarming story of culture and honor, the misfit Mulan and her sidekick Mushu fight to save the emperor from the dreaded Hun soldiers who have invaded their country.

Once Upon this Island

In almost non-stop song and dance, seventh and eighth graders, directed by Mark McNeil with musical direction

by Libby Walden, told the story of Ti Moune, a peasant girl who rescues and falls in love with Daniel, a wealthy boy from the other side of her island.

When Daniel is returned to his people, the fantastical gods who rule the island guide Ti Moune on a quest to test the strength of her love against the powerful forces of prejudice, hatred, and death.

Sweeney Todd

The Upper School’s production of Sweeney Todd was not only the Performing Arts Department’s most successful production to date, it was the first full-scale production of Stephen Sondheim’s musical by any theatre, professional or non-professional, in the state of Mississippi. Connor Buechler portrayed the Demon Barber of Fleet Street and Laura Landrum was his accomplice, Mrs. Lovett.

30

1

Home

Coming

‘09

2

3

4

5

6

1. Rhea Kaye Rowe is crowned Homecoming Queen 2009.

2. Seniors Lauren McMillin, Cristina Salaun, and Lillie Floyd

7

5. Head of Upper School Julia Chadwick leads the seniors out during the Upper School pep rally.

6. The Landsharks

3. Mary Parker Davidson rallies the Middle Schoolers.

7. Hannah Halford, Amy Handelman, and Bronwyn Scott-McCharen

4. Revanth Sanne owns the skins.

8. Ben Conway and Ebony Archie

31

8

africa out of

The relationship between St. Andrew’s Episcopal School and the Hermann Gmeiner International College (HGIC), a boarding school in Ghana, Africa, has come full circle.

32

“I loved everything about Mississippi, especially the friendly people. This was the best time of my entire life.”

Neo Moliko, Student at Hermann Gmeiner International College in Ghana, Native of Lesotho, Africa Last summer, 11 St. Andrew’s students and two faculty members traveled to Ghana for two weeks of service projects and a first-hand look at life in Africa hosted by students from HGIC. Last October, the six HGIC students who served as their hosts traveled to Mississippi, where they spent two weeks attending classes at St. Andrew’s and working side-by-side with St. Andrew’s students on service projects in west Jackson and the Mississippi Delta. Their visit also included a trip to the Mississippi State Fair, cheering in the stands at a Saints football game, and a weekend trip to New Orleans for a sampling of southern landmarks, food, and music.

But the exchange program between St. Andrew’s and HGIC is not only about reciprocal travel. Instead, the program emphasizes reciprocal service.

“The students who participated gained more than just personal knowledge of another part of the world and another culture,” said Dr. Chris Harth, St. Andrew’s director of global studies. “They worked together to make a positive contribution to multiple communities and to change a little part of the world.”

The St. Andrew’s students and HGIC students teamed up to offer after school tutoring to children at the Medgar Evers Community Center in Jackson. Other joint service projects included literacy promotion and cultural exchange pro33

grams at Boyd Elementary School and North Jackson Elementary School in Jackson and at Shelby Middle School in Shelby, a small community in the Mississippi Delta. The service projects proved to be eye-opening experiences, both for the visitors from Africa and for the St. Andrew’s students.

“The most memorable part of the trip for me was tutoring the children at the Medgar Evers Community Center,” said Siphathisiwa Moyo, a student at HGIC and a native of Zimbabwe. “The kids were so happy to see us and were ready to learn and to play with us. One of the kids hugged me and said, ‘You are my sister.’ I realized then that interacting with people is a great method

1

“Of course, there were some cultural differences. My host in Ghana was distressed when I politely declined to try goat-on-a-stick, and I was equally mortified when she deemed the twice-fried Snickers bar I bought her at the Mississippi State Fair ‘abominable.’”

Amelia Senter, Class of 2010

2

3

4

5

6

7

34

“The most memorable experience from the Ghanaians’ visit here was when Kwame and I went to the Mississippi State Fair. As we walked side-by-side down the midway, some people there saw a changing world right before their eyes.”– Bob Gilchrist, Class of 2011 Does Rover speak English?

The students from Ghana fielded several cultural questions from students at Boyd Elementary School, North Jackson Elementary School, and Shelby Middle School, ranging from “Do you wear clothes or grass skirts?” to “What kinds of food do you eat?” But the most unusual question hands-down was: “Do your dogs bark in a different language?” of self-discovery, and that it is possible to inspire and touch people’s lives by doing very small things.”

“During our joint service project in the Delta, we met many children who had never even been to Jackson, the capital of their state,” said St. Andrew’s junior Bob Gilchrist.

“One of the fifth grade girls at Shelby Middle School asked me if there were famous people in Jackson, thinking it was a big city full of celebrities,” St. Andrew’s sophomore Devon Rodgers added. “I’ve always thought of Jackson as a small city in the middle of nowhere, but compared to the tiny town of Shelby, Jackson seemed huge and

fabulous to her.”

“Even though the United States is portrayed as the land of opportunities where everything is beautiful, there are poor people here living in run-down communities,” said HGIC student Lionel Welagamo. “Surprisingly, these people thought they were the only poor ones.

They asked me if there were poor people in Africa.”

“These insights are part of the point of ‘going glocal,’” said Harth. “The St. Andrew’s students traveled to Ghana and made a local difference. The HGIC students came to Mississippi and made a local difference. During their work, both groups of students saw similari-

ties between the people and the needs in both locations. Ultimately, we’re no longer strangers.”

“No matter how far away we live, we still have much in common,” said St. Andrew’s senior David Holland.

“Whether we come from Ghana or Mississippi, we can still relate to one another if we try. All it takes is the courage to step out of your routine.

Ignorance is the main reason for conflict in the world, and our goal should be to rid the world of that ignorance.

How can we do that? Through experiences like this one. After being introduced to new cultures and sharing mine, I am changed.”

“When I tried to picture our Ghanaian hosts prior to my arrival in Ghana, their identities as ‘Africans’ always subsumed their identities as ‘students’ or even ‘teenagers.’ My expectations were characterized by images of tribal dancing and painted dashikis. The students who greeted us at the airport, however, were culturally savvy and boasted slick, modern wardrobes and borderline intimidating intelligence. There exists a fundamental disjunction between the dingy, dilapidated structures that dominate the rural Ghanaian landscape and the vibrant lifeblood that is its inhabitants. In this way, I feel the plight of Mississippians somewhat mirrors that of Ghanaians.” – Amelia Senter, Class of 2010 Different Worlds, Similar Worldviews

1. Trip chaperones Ayeshat Addison and Paul Buckley on the bank of the Mississippi River / 2. Students from HGIC and St. Andrew’s get into the swing of things at the State Fair / 3. Esi Essambra is welcomed to Mississippi by Julia Harth at the Jackson International Airport. / 4. Students from four continents - Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America – visited multiple sites in the Delta on their way to Shelby Middle School. / 5. As part of the program’s emphasis on glocal outreach, HGIC students visited Murrah High School. / 6. An exceptionally talented group, the HGIC students danced and sang for many audiences, including the SA Middle School students pictured here. / 7. Luke Harth and Neo Moliko head to the St. Andrew’s Homecoming dance, a cultural event unto itself. The two spent four weeks together in Ghana and Mississippi.

35

scot St. Andrew’s in

Front: Lewis Thoms (Carnoustie High School) and Killian Buechler (St. Andrew’s) Back: Bonnie Ross (Carnoustie High School) and Patrick McKee (St. Andrew’s)

36

land Joining the Hermann Gmeiner International College and St. Andrew’s students in their service work were Lewis Thoms and Bonnie Ross, students from Carnoustie High School in Scotland, who are completing a three-tiered exchange program with St. Andrew’s.

In March, St. Andrew’s sophomores Killian Buechler and Patrick McKee and Dr. Chris Harth, director of global studies, traveled to Scotland to complete the second tier of the program.

The group’s activities in Scotland included planting trees with the Carnoustie

High School Eco Club; performing in a St. Patrick’s Day Ceilidh (a Scottish dance); visiting Loch Ness (alas, there were no sightings of Nessie); and touring the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh and Stirling Castles, and the Scottish Highlands. The group met with Andrew Welsh, a member of the Scottish Parliament, and with the Provost of Angus.

A highlight of the trip was “Carnoustie Goes International,” a fund-raising concert benefitting a joint project in Rwanda that represents the third segment of the exchange program. This

summer, students and faculty from Carnoustie and St. Andrew’s will travel to Rwanda together to help build a new vocational college in Kigali and to work with students and faculty at a secondary school nearby. Dr. Harth and Jim Bell, an instructor at Carnoustie, co-presented on glocal citizenship and the three-tiered exchange between the schools at “Developing Global Citizens: Bringing Africa into the Classroom,” a national conference in Edinburgh sponsored by Learning & Teaching Scotland.

St. Andrew’s Worldwide St. Andrew’s enjoys international relationships with several schools worldwide, creating once-in-a-lifetime international learning opportunities for St. Andrew’s students. Partner schools and programs include: Carnoustie High School, Scotland

Three-tiered exchange program in Scotland, Mississippi, and Rwanda

Colegio Alarcon, Spain

Established ePal program, with the first shortterm exchange planned for fall 2010

George School, Pennsylvania

Joint service projects between George School and St. Andrew’s to Cuba and China

Hermann Gmeiner International College, Ghana

Short-term exchanges in Mississippi and Ghana

Kunming Foreign Language School, China

Established correspondence program, with the first short-term exchange planned for 2010-11

Momoyama Gakuin School, Japan

Exchange program spanning the entire school year

School Year Abroad, Europe and Asia

Semester and school year options at six sites in Europe and Asia

Potential national and international trips offered to St. Andrew’s students through the school in 2010–11 include travel to Brazil, China, Cuba, France, Honduras, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Rwanda, Scotland, and Spain.

37

Your Passports, please Travel grants

help St. Andrew’s students and

faculty discover the world

38

The St. Andrew’s global studies program offers grants to help students and faculty members cover the cost of educational travel. Grants are merit- and need-based and awarded through a competitive application process. • “St. Andrew’s helps vet the trips, but it’s up to the applicants to choose the destinations and to structure projects that match their interests and skills,” Dr. Chris Harth, director of global studies, explains. • “St. Andrew’s offers trips to multiple countries through the school, but a student may have a particular interest that isn’t covered by those trips,” adds St. Andrew’s senior Aubrey Threadgill, who received a travel grant that allowed him to study in Spain last year. “These grants provide a great opportunity for students to go exactly where they want to go and do exactly what they want to do.” • During the 2009-10 academic year, nine students and four faculty members qualified for grants to help fund travel to destinations around the world. Their planned experiences range from building projects in Cuba to rainforest conservation in Costa Rica, from teaching English in Morocco to studying panda bears in China.

Student Travel Grant Recipients Ebony Archie Educational service in Kenya Karissa Bowley Educational service in Morocco William Chism Community service in Cuba Bob Gilchrist Educational service in South Africa Lindsay Muller Veterinary service with giant pandas in China

Hannah Paulding Educational service in Morocco Natalie Payne Studying art and language in France Malika Shettar Ecological service in Costa Rica Zoe Sullivan Language training and service in Argentina

Faculty Travel Grant Recipients Gail Cado Middle School history teacher Studying history and archaeology in Egypt

Caroline Johnson Upper School math teacher Educationally-oriented service at an orphanage in Guatemala Tim Alford Middle School history teacher Traveling to Israel to conduct research for a new Upper School class on world religions and a possible trip for students Shelby Butler Middle School world languages teacher Language study and community service in Cuba

F o r m o r e i n f o r m at i o n a b o u t S t. A n d r e w ’ s t r av e l g r a n t s , v i s i t

www.gosaints.org 39

Now Boarding Excerpts from the grant recipient’s applications

“I believe that helping people by providing basic needs, education, and love is essential to humanity. Please allow me to experience [serving as an intern with Pray with Africa] so that I may come back to the States and inspire a generation of humanitarians and world changers.” – Bob Gilchrist, Class of 2011

Postcards from the Journey Reflections from last year’s travel grant recipients

“The most interesting part of the trip was the people I met. At my school (the Malaca Instituto in Málaga, Spain), I had friends from 26 countries. I learned not only Spanish culture and language, but also a little something about the culture of various countries on five different continents.” – Aubrey Threadgill, Class of 2010 “I went to Taipei, Taiwan, to visit schools and to be a part of the Deaflympics. Since my trip, I feel more connected to those of Asian descent and those who live in the deaf world.

Without my experiences in Taiwan, I

“The experience of this place [Israel] will help it come alive in my own mind’s eye, and the pictures and primary sources would offer tangible resources to enrich my seventh grade class.

Teachers are always more effective when they truly know their subject, and personal experience…will establish a deeper foundation for my own perception of this place and history.”

– Tim Alford, Middle School History Teacher “As a representative from our small part of Mississippi working in Costa Rica, I will be helping worldwide efforts to

would have only a storybook view of their lives. Now, I’ve lived a small part of my life in their shoes. This trip reminded me that my role as an educator can be very influential not only here at St. Andrew’s, but also in other countries with which I associate.” – Kristel Cronin, Lower School Technology Coordinator “Thanks to my host parents and my host brother and sister, I was able to experience what life is really like for a teenager living in Posadas, Misiones, Argentina. This trip reinforced the idea in me that if I open myself to knowing people and show interest in their ideas and lives, they are kind, friendly, and hospitable beyond measure. I gained a family, new friends, and greater confidence in myself.” – Avery Burrell, Class of 2010 “I traveled to Nicaragua to provide some small help to a medical clinic run by the Foundation for International 40

save and improve the planet.” – Malika Shettar, Class of 2012 “I have a passion for the education and emotional development of children.

My aspiration of one day becoming a teacher is founded upon this concern for the education of needy children, not only in the classroom, but also in everyday life. While teaching in Morocco, I will seek to impart to the children a love for learning and a sense of care. Most of all, I seek to plant a seed that will grow even after I am gone.”

– Hannah Paulding, Class of 2011

Medical Relief of Children. This trip gave me a unique perspective on my role as an American in the world. It allowed me to see just how privileged I am compared to those living in certain other parts of the world. I also saw just how much of an impact one person can have on an underprivileged community.” – Connor Buechler, Class of 2010 “The highlight of my summer of wonders was standing on the soil of Troy. I have placed my Merrill sandals in the true footsteps of Achilles, Hector, Aeneas, Helen, and Heinrich Schliemann. The very Troy I have spent a lifetime studying and teaching and dreaming lives. It lives in Turkey; it lives in the souls and hearts of countless students of Latin, Greek, history, and myth; and it lives in the core of one St. Andrew’s Latin teacher fortunate enough to walk with the heroes and gods of the classical past.” – Patsy Ricks, Middle School and Upper School Latin Teacher

Discovering the Power of

Place Renowned geographer Harm de Blij brings the world to St. Andrew’s

Geographer, author, and television personality Dr. Harm de Blij shared his knowledge of the world with the St. Andrew’s and Metro Jackson communities during a September visit to campus. Currently the John Hannah Distinguished Professor at Michigan State University, Dr. de Blij is a renowned expert on world and human geography.

For seven years, de Blij was the popular geography editor on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” and also served as the

writer and commentator for the original PBS Series, “The Power of Place.”

In 1996, he joined NBC News as the network’s geography analyst. Dr. de Blij has written more than 100 articles and 30 books on human geography. His textbook Geography: Realms, Regions and Concepts has sold more than one million copies.

Dr. de Blij’s recent book, Why Geography Matters, argues that America’s persistent geographic illiteracy constitutes a national security risk. His passion for the 41

subject and belief in its importance were clear as he addressed Middle and Upper School students at St. Andrew’s, speaking on the importance of geographical knowledge, travel, and language study.

“Let me express the hope that some of the best and brightest here will consider geography as their college major,” Dr. de Blij said. “Our national leaders have shown a woeful lack of geographic knowledge and skills, leading to some dangerous policy miscalculations.”

“All of us are blessed as well as burdened by the baggage of place – our place of birth, our mother tongue, of belief systems and

conditions of health, of environmental norms and political circumstances…It is worth reminding ourselves that point of entry continues to matter when it comes to opportunities in reach…Geography and destiny are tightly intertwined.”

– excerpted from The Power of Place: Geography, Destiny, and Globalization’s Rough Landscape by Dr. Harm de Blij Dr. de Blij concluded his visit with a lecture in the Center for Performing Arts open to the general community.

His subject was the importance of geography and the power of place to people of all ages and socioeconomic groups.

A part of the Global Studies Lecture Series, Dr. de Blij’s visit to St. Andrew’s was co-sponsored by the Mississippi Geographic Alliance (MGA), which works to improve the geography skills of students in Mississippi. Dr. David

Rutherford, director of the MGA and a professor at the University of Mississippi, is a member of the St. Andrew’s global studies advisory committee.

“One of the most important things we can do to prepare young people for the world ahead is to teach them about the world itself,” Dr. Rutherford said.

“Dr. de Blij’s extensive work and truly vast knowledge of the world, along with his engaging public speaking ability, inspires students to take a greater interest

in the world of which we’re all a part.”

“If there is one idea I hope students keep in mind following my talks, it is that their good fortune in being at St. Andrew’s and growing up in this wonderful country confers on them a responsibility to learn as much as they can about the world beyond,” Dr. de Blij said. “Although many probably don’t yet see themselves as future leaders, they will be – and the world needs their capable leadership.”

1

2

3

4

Above: 1. In a series of lectures at St. Andrew’s Dr. de Blij implores Americans to learn more about our world. / 2. Students from St. Andrew’s and five other local schools listen as Dr de Blij frames an interactive simulation on the “power of place” held in the David E. Wood Chapel. / 3. Dr. de Blij’s visit to St. Andrew’s and associated events across the state were made possible by a collaborative partnership between St. Andrew’s and the Mississippi Geographic Alliance, represented by Dr. Chris Harth and Dr. David Rutherford, respectively, who appear to the left and right of Dr. de Blij. / 4. Students from the six schools participating in the simulation eat one of three lunches depending upon whether they are locals, mobals, or globals.

42

From Rice and Water to the Full Meal Deal Locals, Mobals, and Globals

A

highlight of Dr. Harm de Blij’s visit was a hands-on learning exercise that involved six teams of high school students representing not only St. Andrew’s, but also Jim Hill High School, St. Joseph’s Catholic School, Northwest Rankin High School, Raymond High School, and the Piney Woods Country Life School. Dr. de Blij led the student teams in a handson exploration of what it means to be a “local,” “mobal,” or “global.”

“Locals” are people limited to their immediate geographic location and the traditional lifestyle of that location; they are poor and their societies are less developed. “Mobals” are those in the process of moving from the local position toward a better quality of life.

Mobals have made a conscious decision to change their status; that decision may be reflected in leaving their homelands or in seeking education or

employment beyond that which is typically pursued by locals. “Globals” are the most cosmopolitan people with the greatest access to resources and the highest standard of living.

Each of the student teams was assigned one of the three roles. The students were then served lunches corresponding to those roles, ranging from rice and water for the locals to rice, fresh fruit, and vegetables for the mobals to a full banquet for the globals. Having students from urban and rural and public and private schools participate further enhanced the concept of diversity inherent in the exercise.

“Although each of the six high schools represented came from different communities on a local level, globally all of the schools are considered members of the global class,” said St. Andrew’s senior Emily Hamilton, who represented a global. “That brought perspective to the whole project, which emphasized

that locals and mobals – not the more fortunate globals – make up the majority of the globe’s population.”

“Despite my playful griping about my bad luck at the time, I actually enjoyed experiencing the inequality of the lunches because it was a tangible example of the inequalities in the living standards of each of the groups,” said St. Andrew’s senior Jonathan Tingle, who participated in the project as a local. “’Perspective’ was the theme of the exercise, not only in terms of the different perspectives of students from each of the different schools represented, but also in terms of the perspectives of the locals, mobals, and globals in other parts of the world with whom we tried to identify. Recognizing that a perceived necessity – for example, a cell phone – of the upper class in one country may be considered a luxury by that country’s lower class was a refreshing reminder of our superb quality of life here in the United States.”

“The opportunity that St. Andrew’s provided students from five different high schools was incredible. Foremost, the event allowed students to come together and share an experience. This just in and of itself was glorious. On top of this was hearing Harm de Blij make geography interesting and relevant to my students. [St. Andrew’s] is obviously passionate about creating these types of learning environments that bring people together to explore and learn. I am very grateful to have had the students of Northwest Rankin High School included in the ‘Power of Place’ event.”

– Terry Hunt , Humanities and Future Studies teacher, Northwest Rankin High School 43

Firs Lay to Deuce Noted readers from

Dr. Seuss

Help St. Andrew’s Celebrate

St. Andrew’s celebrated Read Across America on March 2, the birthday of beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss.

Sponsored by the National Education Association and currently in its 13th year, this annual, national event focuses on motivating children to read. Thousands of schools, libraries, and community centers across the country participate by connecting kids and books.

The South Campus welcomed several notable Mississippians as guest readers, including:

Deuce McAllister, former New Orleans Saint

Wendy Suares, WLBT news anchor

Marsha Barbour, First Lady of Mississippi (or, as Mrs. Menist’s class called her, the “Head Lady”)

Catherine Bryant, storyteller and retired teacher from Raymond Elementary School

Elizabeth Dampier, the voice of young Tiana in Disney’s The Princess and the Frog

Carol Rives, storyteller and retired librarian

Heather Sophia, WAPT meteorologist

Amy Carter, author of The Not So Wicked, Wicked Witch

Right: 1. Heather Sophia / 2. Wendy Suares / 3. Elizabeth Dampier / 4. Marsha Barbour / 5. Deuce McAllister

44

1

2

3

4

5

45

{ s p o r t s }

It’s How They Play the Game The 2009-10 season was a challenging one as a reclassification of the schools affiliated with the Mississippi High School Activities Association saw St. Andrew’s moving from its familiar Division 2A to Division 3A and competing against larger schools. In terms of number of students, St. Andrew’s is one of the smallest schools in Division 3A. But while it was at times a tough adjustment, St. Andrew’s athletes proved that the number of students isn’t nearly as important as the size of those students’ hearts.

Jumping Through Hoops Basketball with Michael Tauchar, Class of 2010 Basketball season opened with our new coaching staff, Coach Brian Cronin and Assistant Coach Jason Claxton, facing quite a challenge. Not only were the Saints coming off of a disappointing previous season, but St. Andrew’s athletics was moving up into Division 3A, a basketball district considered to be one of the most competitive in the state. Soon, however, it became clear that the coaches were for real, the players were determined to turn the team around, and St. Andrew’s was ready to build a strong new basketball program.

As a freshman, I was a part of a team that dressed out six players. During my senior season, we had 17. This season saw not only the locker room but also

the student section overflowing as Saints basketball attracted a growing number of fans. Whether it was to watch Reeve Jacobus sink NBA three pointers, Dallas Prater slither his way through the defense, Nathan Slater dominate the boards, or simply to gaze at studmuffin Konstantin Baizat, the fans turned out, their intensity and pride reaching a level St. Andrew’s hasn’t seen since the days of JeJuan Brown (now a Vanderbilt player) and Trey Frazer.

This season we upset powerhouse teams including Velma Jackson, took care of rival St. Joe 70-42 at the last home game of the year, and finished South State runner-up, all despite our intense 3A competition. There’s no doubt this season was a major step in the right direction. And while I won’t be on the court to help make it happen, I’m looking forward to seeing St. Andrew’s basketball become a powerhouse program in the years to come.

“This season saw not only the locker room but also the student section overflowing as Saints basketball attracted a growing number of fans.”

Saints Winter & Spring Varsity Sports Records Boys’ Basketball 11–15 South State Runner-Up Girls’ Basketball 13–12 South State Runner-Up Boys’ Bowling 3rd in District Girls’ Bowling 3rd in District Boys’ Cross-Country 3rd in State Girls’ Cross-Country 4th in State

Reeve Jacobus eyes the basket.

Football 3–8 Boys’ Soccer 9–7–2 Girls’ Soccer 14–3–3 Slow-Pitch Softball 10–12 Boys’ Swimming 19th in State Girls’ Swimming 4th at State

46

Volleyball 14–13

Never Underestimate the Underdog

Girls’ Basketball with Carrie Sweet, Class of 2010

Meredith Ury with the lay-up

On Pins and Needles Bowling with Stephen Coker, Class of 2010 While many St. Andrew’s sports programs were challenged by the move from 2A to 3A, the jump actually left the bowling team with less competition and a better chance to do well in sta-

Having It Our Way Bowling with Sophie Sharp, Class of 2010 This season, the girls’ bowling team found something to celebrate outside the lanes – our shared love of fun and food.

I brought pink-frosted brownies to the district match to lighten my team-

3A basketball. We had heard a lot about it before we moved up. The players would be quick and strong. They would be very athletic. They would eat us alive.

Not exactly what we wanted to hear after two losing seasons at 2A and definitely not what I wanted to hear as a senior. But while a lot of the talk was negative, we vowed to do all we could to prove the naysayers wrong.

Inside the district, we were seen as the easy team to beat. That thinking proved to be a mistake for anyone who took us too lightly. When we were not playing, we worked hard and had long practices. Sure, it was tough, but that hard work paid off as the underdogs made a huge turnaround. In most games, we either won or were within a few points, proving to be more competitive

“We finished the season with a winning record of 13-12. Next year, our opponents will think differently when they see that blue and white bus pull onto their campus.” than even we ourselves had anticipated.

We finished the season with a winning record of 13-12. Next year, our opponents will think differently when they see that blue and white bus pull onto their campus.

When I look back on this year that was supposed to be full of dread and loss, I’m proud of myself and my team.

We knew how little others expected from us, but we didn’t live down to that.

Instead we set new goals, pushed ourselves until we met them, defied the odds, and made a new name for ourselves.

Because of what we as a team were able to overcome, I know that I am a champion, and that I’m ready for more challenges and success as I move into the world.

tistics. That said, the loss of five of last year’s six starters to graduation still made for a tough season.

I was pleasantly surprised, however, by the large number of people who showed up to join the team. Tryout scores were weak, but as practices went on, scores increased. Natural abilities flourished. And as the games began, we realized that this team was actually more consistent than last year’s team.

We placed third in the district qualifier, squeaking by archrival St. Joe. While we were disappointed that we failed to make it to the state championship, we’re still proud of how much we improved and grew as a team. We far surpassed our preseason expectations, and in that regard, we had a successful season indeed.

mates’ spirits and provide a much-needed sugar boost as we headed into our match.

Unfortunately, the members of the St. Andrew’s boys’ bowing team did not get the memo that pink frosting signifies, “Go girls’ team!” and not, “Go boys who are finished playing.” The boys scarfed down the brownies in a matter of minutes, resulting in a girls’ team characterized by growling tummies and a weak initial performance.

Using argumentative techniques that rivaled our bowling skills, the girls convinced boys’ team members Duncan Becker and Michael Sneed to make a quick run to Burger King. After an emergency dose of crown-shaped chicken tenders, the girls’ team increased its score in every game, finishing third in the district and beating Florence by nine pins.

That’s what I’d call having it our way.

47

{ s p o r t s }

Cross-Country Builds Character

Will Sneed pushes towards the finish.

Cross-Country with Will Sneed, Class of 2010 Cross-country builds character.

After all, it takes character to start something you know is going to hurt you, something that you know is going to push your body to its limits, something that you know is going to make you earn every bit of that feeling of accomplishment.

St. Andrew’s had a young cross-country team this year and this was our debut season in the 3A division, where the competition was much greater. After 13 consecutive years as the 2A state champions, we were cast in the unfamiliar role of underdog. I am proud to say that this only served to further inspire us. After all, it takes character to push yourself every day toward a goal that many would characterize as futile.

We didn’t win a state championship this year, although we did come in a respectable third. Being a part of the team that ended such a long winning streak was tough. But I can attest that each member of our team gave everything he had, and that like the challenge of training and the determination to do one’s best, overcoming this loss to run another day will only serve to build our collective character.

“After 13 consecutive years as the 2A state champions, we were cast in the unfamiliar role of underdog. I am proud to say that this only served to further inspire us. After all, it takes character to push yourself every day toward a goal that many would characterize as futile.”

Karissa Bowley swings for the fence.

48

{ s p o r t s }

A Final Run at Choctaw Trails

Elizabeth Gaillet leading the pack.

Girls’ Cross-Country with Adria Luk, Class of 2010 Standing on the starting line, I see eager parents on my left, cameras in hand, snapping pictures of their star athletes.

To the right are coaches clutching stopwatches and clipboards, calling to their runners as they pace back and forth. But as I wait for the shot to be fired, I’m focused only on the race before me.

It is here, at Choctaw Trails in Clinton, Mississippi, that my teammates and I have spent so many Saturday mornings while our peers slept until noon. It is here that we have suffered losses and celebrated victories. And it is here that we grit our teeth and show what we are: runners.

This season we logged countless miles, wore down our shoes, endured speed workouts, and found a small family. To many people, we are insane, or at least slightly masochistic. But there is a reason behind the madness. Cross-country is largely a mental sport where perseverance and receptiveness to change are key, which was true especially during this season. Faced not only with the challenge of facing tougher 3A competition, the team also came under the leadership of a new coach. Together, we learned to adapt and adjust, to persevere and overcome. And while we did not win state, we made a formidable showing, leaving our mark on the 3A world.

November was my last time competing at Choctaw Trails, but the lessons of perseverance and endurance I have learned these past six years will last a lifetime.

A Season of Ups and Downs Slow-pitch Softball with Caroline Womack, Class of 2010 The transition from last year’s phenomenal 22-4 season to this year’s was every bit as tough as we thought it would be.

“Together, we learned to adapt and adjust, to persevere and overcome. And while we did not win state, we made a formidable showing, leaving our mark on the 3A world.”

The season began with a comeback win over Ridgeland 7-6 and ended with a 5-3 victory over Clinton.

In between, we had good and bad days, posting a final record of 10-12. But even through the occasional ups and the many downs, our team grew closer and made great improvement by the final games and practices.

As a senior, I might look back 49

more fondly on other, more winning seasons, but what I’ll remember most about my years on the slowpitch team is the fun of playing for Coach Fanning and Coach McCall, the good times with my teammates, and lessons I learned that apply off the field, including learning how to take whatever you’re given and do your best.

{ s p o r t s }

Defining Moments

Melissa Holy lines up the shot.

Soccer with Haylee Vomberg, Class of 2010 The 2009-10 soccer season was dramatic in that every week was different.

Our team weathered several ups and downs, from the delay of tryouts to the deflated feeling that came when archrival St. Joe refused to play us due to our failure to shine at the South State Championships.

We finished the season with a morethan-respectable record of 14-3-3, but we aren’t defined by statistics typed in ink on paper. Instead, our team was defined by all the tough practices, social soccer dinners, games, and random-to-profound team conversations.

We were defined by the way we pushed when it wasn’t going our way and the effort we put into having the best season we could. We knew what we had to do and, whether it was fun or not,

With the Honor Soccer with Timothy Hopper, Class of 2010 This soccer season didn’t go according to plan.

The plan went something like this: we would beat archrival St. Joe in the regular season a couple of times, and then in the state championship, we would beat St. Joe again.

The reality went something like this: thanks to inclement weather and a number of other unfortunate circumstances, we never even played St. Joe. But despite that shortfall, my last soccer season as a Saint was the most fun-filled of my high school career.

Under the dynamic leadership of Coach Beggs and Coach Chad, we put in strong efforts against much larger schools and were competitive in every game we played. Key player Will Sneed provided the Saints with shut-down defense

we did our best.

That is what truly defined our team and that will ultimately be what we remember most about this season.

that kept opponents scoreless through most of district play and the early playoff rounds. In the midfield, Daniel Duddleston tackled hard all season and used his laser shot to strike fear into all of our opponents. John Sullivan was a dangerous forward all season, and even though it was his first season to play, Charles Henry Goodwin proved to be a formidable goal-scoring threat. In goal, Ben Collins was spectacular, pulling some of the craziest stunts I’ve ever seen, including leaving the box to take a header against Clarkdale. The personality Aubrey Threadgill brought to the team, the many free kicks served up by Connor Buechler, and David Holland’s uncanny ability to get into our opponents’ heads all proved to be an integral part of our team’s success.

Whenever I took throw-ins, John Sullivan’s dad would announce from the press box, “That’s Timothy Hopper with the honor.” And it truly has been an honor to be part of the St. Andrew’s soccer team.

50

“We knew what we had to do and, whether it was fun or not, we did our best.”

Timothy Hopper looks for an opening.

“Under the dynamic leadership of Coach Beggs and Coach Chad, we put in strong efforts against much larger schools and were competitive in every game we played.”

{ s p o r t s }

Saints swimmers at the state meet

Hoo Ahh! Swimming with Elena Stater, Class of 2011 When is not winning everything, winning everything?

The 2009 St. Andrew’s girls’ swimming team is a perfect example of this paradox. The Lady Saints swam their way to fourth in the state – the best finish in program history – finishing behind athletic machines from Tupelo,

High Fives All Around Boys’ Swimming with William Boyles, Class of 2011 The boys’ swim team was small – only five members – but we proved that strength as a team is about more than numbers. The five of us grew to be close friends as we worked together to overcome the lack of depth on the team. Coach Col. Thatch Shepard taught us the values instilled in him

Madison Central, and Oxford.

This benchmark-setting season saw the Lady Saints exemplify the intangible qualities that represent “the St. Andrew’s community.” Every member of the group, from seventh grader to senior, came together to form a strong, cohesive team. Coach Thatch Shepard emphasized our strengths and worked on our weaknesses with constant encouragement and frequent, rousing chants of “Hoo ahh!”

We arrived at the state meet in Biloxi ready to swim our best. As the races were called and the scores were posted, our excitement grew. The last race found the Lady Saints in fourth place by one-half of a point. Could we hold on to finish fourth?

Yes! Our best-ever finish was made even more special thanks to the fact that every girl in the water contributed at least one point.

All together now – “Hoo ahh!”

during his Army career – loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. Senior David Holland had seen the highs and lows of St. Andrew’s swimming and emerged as a strong leader.

We began the year with our annual trip to the Vicksburg pool. Our relay was in the top five, and everyone swam at a high level. We went on to compete well in the Madison Central Meet, the Holy Wars Swim Meet (St. Joseph, St. Aloysius, and St. Andrew’s), and the Brandon High School Meet. We were

well prepared for our greatest competition to that point, the North State Swim Meet, where we came in fourteenth. We had a lot of momentum heading into the state meet in Biloxi.

We took all five members of the boys’ team, and all five swam their fastest.

On paper, finishing nineteenth in the state may not appear to be cause for celebration. But considering we were a team of just five members – including three first-year members – swimming against all schools 1A through 6A, I’d say our finish was outstanding.

51

{ s p o r t s }

Ben Collins stiffarms a Bruin.

A Game-Changing Season Football with Cameron McRae, Class of 2010 The football team played with one overriding theme this year: dealing with change. We had said good-bye

Putting Our Hearts Into It

not only to last year’s seniors but also to long-time Coach David Bradberry, and the Saints moved to an entirely different level of competition with the switch to 3A. The style and manner of our new coach, Ted Taylor, were drastically different from what returning players had known under Coach Bradberry. We

Amy Handelman with the spike

Volleyball with Amy Handelman, Class of 2010 Coaches often say that skill and talent are not the factors that win games, that it’s really the heart and effort that the players put forward that bring home the victory. I cannot think of a better example of that concept than the Lady Saints volleyball team’s performance in the Madison Central tournament.

We had been playing since 8:00 that morning; around 8:00 that night we were offered the chance to play the equally-exhausted Madison Central Jaguars. We accepted, eager to avenge an earlier loss.

The game was close from the opening serve. Despite our fatigue, every spike, kill, or point was followed by high fives all around as we kept up the

“Our team also weathered injuries that resulted in switching our personnel to the point that several team members found themselves playing a new position for the first time during a game.” were playing teams that most of us knew nothing about and we had to make adjustments from week to week.

Our team also weathered injuries that resulted in switching our personnel to the point that several team members found themselves playing a new position for the first time during a game.

But despite all the adjustments and a disappointing 3-8 final record, I am proud of how hard our team played.

They say no one likes change, and while it can definitely be hard to handle, I know that the returning players will come back in 2010 wiser because of all they learned in 2009 and with the knowledge that they can adjust to whatever the game throws their way.

“Despite our fatigue, every spike, kill, or point was followed by high fives all around as we kept up the fire and excitement we knew would necessary to win the game.” fire and excitement we knew would be necessary to win the game. I personally don’t remember any cheering from the other team because I was so involved in soaking up the enthusiasm and passion that was flowing on our side of the court. And despite our exhaustion, you can bet we found the energy to celebrate when we finally pulled ahead by two points and came out with the victory over 5A Madison Central.

It seems those wise old coaches were right. We brought a lot of skill and talent to the court, but it was our heart and effort that truly led to our success.

52

{ a l u m n i

e v e n t s }

1

2

3

4

5

1. New Orleans Alumni Party / December 10, 2009: Priscilla Almond Jolly ’94, Mary Collins Harwell ’93, John Michael Louis ’94, Colleen Connor ’99, Sean Marshall ’98, Sarah Rivlin ’99, Nick Payne ’01 and Whitney Lehr Ray ’04 • 2. Memphis Alumni Event / November 11, 2009: Jenny King ’89, Traci Blair Strickland ’87, Brannon Smith ’90, Susannah Morse DeNobriga ’02, Meriwether Wofford ’02, Susan Gear Deason ’90 and Mary Collins Harwell ’93 • 3. Oxford Alumni Party / November 12, 2009: Ali Gaggini ’06, Leslie Wells ’06, Cara Troiani ’06, Alden Wofford ’06, Ashley Wright ’06 • 4. New York Alumni Event / January 24, 2010: Amy Lymberis Mungur ’93, Brent McKay ’93, Ashley Mallinson ’01, Piya Nair Newkirk ’96, Laura Eichhorn ’98 • 5. Atlanta Alumni Event / September 24, 2009: Troy Weathersby ’98, Heather Keith Weathersby ’97, Michelle Purdy ’97, Shannon Meeks ’93, Jennifer Keith ’92 53

C

lass

notes

Please e-mail future Class Notes to Mary Harwell ’93 at harwellc@gosaints.org.

1984 Coyt Bailey and his wife, Leah, welcomed a son, Hugh Coyt Bailey, on October 15, 2009.

Hugh joins big sister Sara (3).

1986 Bill Hamilton released his first two songs with his band, Nipsey, to iTunes. In addition to performing a lot of live gigs, Nipsey has launched an irreverent sketch comedy show. Hamilton lives near New York City in a warehouse loft space in Hoboken, New Jersey. During a visit to Jackson last Christmas, he sat in with Scott Albert Johnson ’88 at Underground 119.

1987 Cheryl Collins is starting a gardening coop in the Jackson area called Growing in Christ. She plans to bring gardeners together to share experiences and crops, and to provide produce to soup kitchens, church food drives, and neighbors.

1988 Warwick Alley and his wife, Elizabeth, welcomed a son, Charles Warwick Alley, on September 9, 2009. Warwick joins big sister Ivy (3).

Shelly Montgomery Johannessen welcomed her first child, Jane Neves Johannessen, on December 19, 2009. Shelly, her husband, Michael, and Jane Neves will move to Havana, Cuba, this summer for a two-year posting with the U.S. State Department.

Wayne Purdy lives in Jackson and works as a customer service representative at BankPlus in Ridgeland. Wayne recently committed to the 50 Million PoundWeight Loss Challenge in an effort to lose 100 pounds, and has also taken up yoga in an effort to live a healthier lifestyle. He is looking forward to his class’ 20-year reunion later this year.

Becca Keane Temple and her husband, Mark, welcomed a son, William Sage Temple, on August 20, 2009. They call the baby “Liam.” Liam joins sisters Virginia Grace (10) and Abbey Robinson (7). Becca teaches English at Madison Central High School, where she has spent the last five years of a 14-year teaching career.

Kristin Hurley Layman and her husband, Kip, welcomed a third daughter, Harper Grace Layman, on August 29, 2009.

Harper Grace joins big sisters Brooke and Landon.

Austin McMullen and his wife, Kelly, welcomed a daughter, Mary Austin McMullen, on February 15, 2010. Mary Austin joins brother Reagan (4). The McMullens live in Nashville.

Amanda Rollins and her husband, Dennis Maxwell, welcomed a son, Caden Maxwell, on September 23, 2009.

1992 Leigh Ann Cox Longwitz and her husband, Will, welcomed their second daughter, June Elisabeth, January 7, 2010. June Elisabeth joins big sister Sophie.

Adrian Green is a lab manager for the U.S. Geological Survey Coastal and Marine Science Center in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. Her former St. Andrew’s choir directors will be pleased to know that she sings with two community choirs in the area. Adrian recently escaped the cold on a three-week trip with friends to Costa Rica.

Christine Meyers Pastor lives in New Bern, North Carolina, with her husband, Adam, and their children, Alexander, Victoria, and Logan.

1989 Clay Collins and his wife, Janie, live in Fort Collins, Colorado. Clay is an enterprise asset manager at New Belgium Brewery and Janie works for the U.S. Social Security Administration.

1993 Sharla Bachelder weathered the real estate storm of 2009, posting her second best year to date. Bachelder’s individual production as a realtor with RE/MAX Alliance places her in the top 10% of Jackson Metro Area Realtors and in the top 10% of RE/MAX associates in Mississippi.

1990 Avery Carpenter practices functional medicine and chiropractic in Dallas. She is one of the first doctors trained by Datis Kharrazian on the thyroid.

Kendra Fowler Banks is the head of marketing at Tesco, the largest British retailer in terms of both global sales and domestic market share.

54

Connor Mills Scanlon

1994 Katherine Mills Scanlon and her husband, John Scanlon ’93, welcomed a son, Connor Mills Scanlon, on November 9, 2009.

1995 Trey Ward and his wife, Heather, welcomed a daughter, Haley Nicole, on March 2, 2010.

1996 Reid William Aquino

Julia Fowler Aquino and her husband, Patrick, welcomed a son, Reid William Aquino, on August 1, 2009. The Aquinos live in Boston, Massachusetts.

Carson Montgomery and his wife, Tish, welcomed a daughter, Neelly Scott Montgomery, on January 5, 2010. Neelly Scott joins brother John (2). The family lives in Denver, Colorado.

1997 Rachel Baird and James Thomas “J.T.” Newman were married October 25, 2008 at St. Andrew’s Cathedral. They live in Jackson, where Rachel is a third grade teacher at Madison Station Elementary School and J.T. is a chemist with U.S. Environmental Services.

1998 Drew Ford lives in Jackson and is a graphic designer for Eaton’s Aerospace Group.

Megan Hitt Mahayn and her husband, Anthony, live in Jackson, Tennessee, where Megan is a stay-at-home mom with daughters Kelsey (8) and Katy (4).

Kelly Temple finished her master’s degree in social work in 2008, worked with the MoveOn Organization on the 2008 presidential election, and is now working with Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 105 in Denver, Colorado.

SEIU is the largest union in North America with 2.2 million members. Temple helps organize private security officers in Colorado.

To date, more than 50,000 officers have won a voice on the job in this country with help from SEIU. Kelly is working to make that a reality in Colorado.

1999 Abby Coker will marry Rogan Lechthaler at her sister Cristen Hemmins’ ’89 historic home in Oxford, Mississippi, on May 22, 2010. The couple will reside in South Londonderry, Vermont, where Rogan is head chef at Verde, Stratton Mountain Ski Resort, and Abby works in sales.

Justin Cook married celebrated Jackson artist Ginger Williams on October 10, 2009 at St. James’ Episcopal Church in Jackson.

The Cooks recently bought a house down the street from Patrick Taylor ’93 in Jackson’s historic Belhaven neighborhood.

2004 Jamie Mallinson has been living in Washington, D.C., since he graduated from Washington & Lee in 2008. He is an investment adviser for Signature Financial Partners.

Miller Stiles Pulvere

Katy Morgan Neely Pulvere and her husband, Graham, welcomed their first son, Miller Stiles Pulvere, on September 29, 2009. The family lives in Birmingham, Alabama.

Laura Young has moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where she teaches 10th and 11th grade English and coaches track at Hume-Fogg, a magnet school. Laura and Chris Louis ’99 will marry on May 29, 2010 at St. Andrew’s Cathedral in Jackson.

Laura has a golden retriever named Tenaya.

2000 Lauren Shores lives in Little Elm, Texas, just north of Dallas and is an associate veterinarian at a small animal private practice.

She has three dogs, Monkey, Nellie, and Zorro, and a cat named Prima. Shores recently returned from her eighth trip to Honduras with the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi’s Honduras Medical Mission.

She also performs as a member of the Frisco Ballet.

2001 Ashley Mallinson lives in Manhattan and works as events director for celebrity stylist and TV personality Robert Verdi. She is currently appearing in the television series The Robert Verdi Show, Starring Robert Verdi.

Allison Forman, Claire Patrick Strange and Carrie Menist

2003 Claire Patrick married William Strange.

Allison Forman ’04 was a bridesmaid and Carrie Menist ’04 was maid of honor.

55

Whitney Lehr Ray

Whitney Lehr Ray has completed two seasons in the New Orleans Saints’ marketing department as the corporate partnerships service assistant. Ray handles roughly half of the team’s sponsorship accounts, making sure everything in a sponsor’s contract is fulfilled. She traveled with the Saints staff and the team to Miami for Super Bowl XLIV. Steven Whatley received his master’s of accountancy from Millsaps College in July 2009. He graduated from the United States Navy Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, on March 26, 2010.

2005 Rebecca Brannan and Brooks Vance ’02 were engaged on January 20. Brooks will graduate from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in May and Rebecca will graduate from Millsaps in May. Catherine Schmidt graduated from Millsaps in May 2009 and is now finishing a year of service with AmeriCorps, during which she coordinated the OneCampus, OneCommunity volunteer center at Millsaps, as well as working for Parents for Public Schools. Schmidt will marry Lloyd Spivey Gray, Jr. of Tupelo in July. She plans to teach middle or high school English in the Mississippi Teacher Corps next year.

2006 Todd Cronin was awarded an Air Force ROTC scholarship to the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, where he was accepted into the computer engineering program.

kcaB gnikooL | Looking Forward Archways catches up with Mr. and Miss St. Andrew’s 1980

and his wife, Jenny, have three children ages 13 to 17. While he enjoys a successful and rewarding career and personal life, reminiscing about his years at St. Andrew’s still brings a smile.

“After traveling for a year with my crown as Mr. St. Andrew’s, I don’t think I can ever feel like that again,” Dr. Langford says with a laugh. “Finding the Mr. St. Andrew’s photos in my annual has given my wife many laughs and much ammunition.”

Former Mr. St. Andrew’s Jon Langford

“St. Andrew’s was a fantastic environment for me,” says Jon Langford. “I think the small size and dedicated faculty and staff helped foster a sense of honor and duty. It was there that I made wonderful, lifelong friendships.”

Following his years at St. Andrew’s, Langford graduated from Duke University and the University of Mississippi Medical Center. He completed his residency in surgery and otolaryngology at Duke University School of Medicine, followed by a plastic surgery fellowship at a private clinic in Vero Beach, Florida.

Today, Dr. Jon Langford practices otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat) and facial plastic surgery as the president of Carolina ENT Specialists in Concord, North Carolina, and as president of the ENT section of the local hospital, Northeast Medical Center.

He is also an active volunteer with the Cabarrus Victims Assistance Network, a shelter for victims of domestic violence and their children. Dr. Langford Jon Langford Then • Student • • • •

Body President Adele Franks Award Recipient National Honor Society Tennis Team Alpha Omega Graduate

Dr. Jon Langford Now

President of Carolina ENT Specialists • President of the ENT section of NorthEast Medical Center •

Former Miss St. Andrew’s Catherine Gray Clark

“St. Andrew’s nurtured me in so many ways,” says Catherine Gray Clark. “My teachers knew me and cared about me, not just academically, but personally.

In return, I felt personally accountable to them – I knew they wouldn’t let me get away with the easy answer. I was also able to participate in a wide range of activities, which might not have been possible in a larger school. These experiences were crucial to helping this shy person build the self-confidence need-

ed to thrive in college, law school, and the adult world.”

Clark followed her St. Andrew’s career by graduating from Duke University and Vanderbilt University Law School. She worked for a law firm in Nashville for five years, leaving to become the first law clerk for a new bankruptcy judge.

In 1992 she married Shelton Clark, and in 1995 she left her law career to stay at home with their first child.

Today, Catherine Gray Clark is a stayat-home mom with three children and an active volunteer at their schools, where she uses her lawyerly skills to lobby the school board as PTO co-president.

“When I found out I had been voted Miss St. Andrew’s, I was actually working on the layout for the annual,” Clark recalls. “In past years, the photo of Mr. and Miss St. Andrew’s was given a whole page, but I felt really awkward putting in a full page photo of myself – see ‘shy person’ comment above – so I just stuck our picture on a half page at the end of the seniors section. I don’t know if Jon has ever forgiven me.”

Married to Jenny DeCrane Langford, DVM • Three children, Cameron, Blair, and Gaines

Catherine Gray Then

Favorite St. Andrew’s memory: “My good friend John Weiner [now Dr. John Weiner] dressing up as a priest with horns and posing with Father David Elliott.”

Catherine Gray Clark Now

•

Trustees Award • National Honor Society • Homecoming Court • Cheerleader •

Attorney Turned Stay at-Home Mom and Community Volunteer •

Married to Shelton Clark • Three children, Shelton Jr., Duncan, and Elliott •

Favorite St. Andrew’s memory: “Performing No, No, Nanette my junior year.

Getting to sing opposite Doug Varney’s beautiful tenor was quite a thrill.”

Above: John Langford and family / 1980 Mr. and Miss St. Andrew’s Catherine Gray and John Langford / Catherine Gray Clark and two of her three sons 56