GLOBAL EXCHANGE
The magazine of Atlanta International School
2023 - 2024
DEAR AIS COMMUNITY,
Welcome to Global Exchange!
In this edition we celebrate the incredible work and experiences of our students, educators and community. These pages cover all aspects of our school, and we take a closer look at the unique experiential learning opportunities o ered at AIS. While what happens in the classroom is the foundation of learning, it’s the application of knowledge, and seeing life in motion that cements our students’ critical thinking skills.
Looking back, no one could have predicted this last year would be so significant in the timeline of our school. During these (what feel like) short months, we’ve grown from a single campus school to one that now boasts an additional 25 acres in Sandy Springs - with facilities including dormitories, sports courts, employee accommodation, and many other fantastic spaces.
And a riverbank!
Thank you to everyone who has worked tirelessly to bring our new campus into operation, firstly for our summer campers and then for the AISx students who’ll be located there beginning this August. And by this time next year, we will be welcoming our first ever AIS boarding students. These are truly exciting times!
Someone who has been instrumental in all these developments, and in ensuring our Buckhead campus continues to flourish, is our outgoing Chair of the Board of Trustees, Scott Britton. We are deeply grateful to Scott for his leadership over the past 4 years. And to all of our Trustees for their time and dedication, including our much missed friend and colleague, Aaron Hackett, who very sadly passed away this year.
We thank all of you for being a part of AIS. With you behind us - as AIS parents, alumni, students, employees, donors and advocates, we can take strides into the future with pride and confidence.
With our very best wishes,
Shelley Giberson - Chair of the Board of Trustees
Kevin Glass - Head of School
Shelley Giberson Chair of the Board of Trustees
Kevin Glass Head of School
Curtain
David Acosta ’28
Nathan Bine ’24
Dorcas Bosombo ’25
Dee Dee Dennis
Dr. Peluchi Flores
Arielle Garber Kohan ’01
Shelley Giberson
Haislip Julie Shoen
Lynn Martineau
Michelle Meyers
Paul Saeger
Tyler Sant
William Watter
IN THE NEWS
GLOBAL ATLANTA GOES FULL STEAM AHEAD
Global Atlanta’s feature, ‘Full STEAM Ahead’, focused on experiential learning and the success of our unique Secondary School internship program.
ROUGH DRAFT 20 UNDER 20 HONORS
Omar Jingo ’24 was honored by Rough Draft when his development initiative in Uganda, Bomlees Bicycles, earned him a spot in their annual ‘20 Under 20.’
ATLANTA NEWS FIRST JOINS THE ELC ON NATIONAL PANCAKE DAY
September saw Dr. Marsha Maxwell, AIS Head of Innovation, Research and Technology talking to Atlanta News First about entrepreneurship on National Pancake Day.
THE ECIS FEATURE MAISIE AND KAIXUAN’S ARTICLE
An article by Maisie Bruner ’25 and Kaixuan Guo ’25 about human trafficking appeared in the ECIS (Educational Collaborative for International Schools) in April.
SANDY SPRINGS! AIS
Paul Saeger Reflects...
When news began to spread that a boarding school in Sandy Springs was closing its doors for the last time in May 2023, the AIS Senior Leadership Team’s cell phones started to ping. Although it was the end of the school year, it was clear that the work of the summer was just about to start.
“At first it was really unclear what might be possible - but we knew that an opportunity like this may only come around once in a generation. So there was no time to lose in putting our case together, and to explore what a potential purchase could look like,” said Paul Saeger, the AIS Associate Head of School for Operations. “It was certainly one of the most exciting summers of my career,” reflected Paul, who oversaw the financial and legal process for the acquisition. “And probably the least restful!”
Since moving to North Fulton Drive in 1995, the AIS student body has grown from 630 to 1345. And with more applications than places available, in many parts of the school, finding an additional space has been a longstanding aim of the school’s strategic plan. The AIS Vision for Learning, put expanding ‘Our Learning Environment’ as a top tier priority to be realized during the next ten years.
But following those first few weeks of summer 2023, it became clear that an accelerated time frame was a real possibility. The six months that followed were a rollercoaster for everyone involved in the bid to purchase the 25 acre site in wooded surroundings overlooking the Chattahoochee River.
“As anyone who has bought a house, business or any property knows, it’s never plain sailing,” Paul continued. “And there were certainly more than a few moments when we thought we were going to miss out, which was hard. But I’m proud of the way the team at AIS and our Board of Trustees were so single-minded and worked together to finally make the vision for the school a reality.”
The purchase of Atlanta International School’s new Sandy Springs campus, at 1701 Brandon Hall Drive, GA 30350, was finalized at 11am on November 17, 2023.
And already it’s hosted summer camps, a movie shoot, overnight camping and other activities. From August 2024, the AISx hybrid academic program will be located at the new campus, and from August 2025, residential students will be enrolled from grades 9-12.
Paul concluded, “There is still a lot of work to be done on our new campus, but for AIS this expansion transforms what we can o er to future generations of students, and I’m so grateful to have played my part in making that happen.”
A warm welcome to the new Chair of the Board of Trustees, Shelley Giberson...
Shelley and her husband Ron are parents to AIS students, Christian ’31, Chloe ’25 and Liam, who graduated in 2023.
Shelley’s family have been part of AIS for 15 years and she has been a member of the Board of Trustees
Board Moves
We thank all of our volunteer Board of Trustees members, for their dedication, care, and stewardship of AIS.
since 2015. Since 2016, Shelley has served as the Board Treasurer and as O cer of the Board.
Outside of AIS, Shelley is a partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) where she is responsible for consulting and tax advisory services to several of PwC’s biggest clients. Shelley has held various leadership roles within PwC, including running large portions of its tax, consulting and assurance practices, comprising $1B+ in revenue delivered by over 250 partners and 2,500 sta . Shelley has also served as the Managing Partner of PwC’s Greater Atlanta practice and the leader of PwC’s tax specialty practices.
Shelley is a proud member of the Leadership Atlanta class of 2015, and in the community she has served on the boards of the Woodru Arts Center, United Way of Greater Atlanta, Atlanta History Center, The Girl Scouts, Leadership Atlanta, CHRIS 180 and Midtown Alliance.
..and to new Board O cers and members for 2024-25
Vice-Chair
Susannah Cobb Parker
Susannah has degrees from Peace College and Davidson College NC, where she played NCAA Division I varsity tennis. She spent 10 years as a corporate banker for Wachovia and SunTrust Banks, where she was a First Vice President and a Certified Treasury Professional. Since then Susannah has worked as a business manager in technology, interior design, and residential construction. Currently, she works for Eumenean Construction. Susannah and her husband Chris have two children, Heys ’23 and Betsy ’25.
Before moving to Atlanta, Shelley worked in the Seattle, Portland and London o ces of PwC. She holds an MPA and BBA from the University of Texas at Austin and CPA licenses in Georgia and Texas.
Shelley said, “It’s been such a privilege serving on the AIS Board of Trustees, and I’m honored to now be the Board Chair. My predecessor Scott Britton has done a fantastic job serving the school and I thank him for all he has achieved during this important time.
“Since I have been a part of this community, I have seen AIS not only grow in size but in ambition, cultural understanding and through its expanded world-class academic programs. I now hope to help realize even more of the school’s strategic vision.
“Put simply, I love this school and community and am thrilled to have the opportunity to serve you!”
Treasurer Barbara
Barbara is the Managing Director & Assistant Treasurer at Delta Air Lines, responsible for capital markets, treasury services, global payment strategy, accounts, and other areas. She joined Delta through the merger with Northwest Airlines, where she was Director of Corporate Finance. Barbara is from Monterrey, Mexico and has an Economics degree from the Institute of Technology and Superior Studies of Monterrey and an MBA from Loyola University Chicago. She has two children, Santiago ’22 and Isabella ’25.
Dr. Mark McKenna
Mark, a graduate of Tulane University Medical School, began practicing medicine while launching McKenna Venture Investments, a real estate development firm. In 2007 Mark relocated to Atlanta and launched ShapeMed, an aesthetics based medical practice, acquired by Life Time Fitness where he served as National Medical Director. In 2017 Mark became the CEO and Founder of OVME, a medical aesthetic company which was acquired by a private equity firm in 2021. Mark and his wife Gianine, have two children, Milana ’34 and Ariana ’38.
James Calvin “Cal” Fallaize serves as the President of Fallaize Insurance Agency, Inc. With over 18 years of experience in the property and casualty industry, he holds designations from the National Institute of Insurance as a Certified Insurance Counselor and Certified Risk Manager, as well as holding a Certified Workers Comp Advisor designation from the Institute of Workers Comp. Cal has a BA from Georgia State University and lives in Brookhaven with his wife Dana and two daughters, Margot ’34 and Bridget ’36.
Barbara (Barb) is an attorney to the healthcare and life sciences industries. Previously a hospital administrator, Barb managed clinical and non-clinical sta across multiple facilities. Barb guest lectures for undergraduate and graduate-level health law and business courses. Barb earned a Juris Doctorate, an MBA, and a Master of Health Administration from Georgia State University and a BSc from Florida State University. Barb is married to Aaron and has two children, Sophia ’29 and Bennett ’35.
Felix is a managing director and senior partner at the Boston Consulting Group (BCG). Felix, who is German, has worked for BCG for almost 20 years, having been based out of the firm’s London, Mumbai, Atlanta and Miami o ces. He currently leads digital and AI for BCG’s industrial clients. Felix holds an MBA from the University of Georgia and a Ph.D. from the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg. He is also a senior fellow at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Felix and his wife Martina have four children, Celina ’32, Sophia ’35, Vincent ’36 and baby Anna.
And our sincere thanks to Josh Mo tt, Bahnson Stanley and Joyce Yamaato, who leave the Board of Trustees this year.
Barbara Rogers
Quiroga
Cal Fallaize
Felix Stellmaszek
Out and about with the ELC
At three or four years old, a small trip out can feel like a big adventure!
For our Early Learning Center (ELC) students, learning beyond the classroom starts with visits to the main campus - to enjoy petting zoo cuddles, language storytimes in the library, or to take in a show in
Left: Fire Department demonstration
Above: Petting zoo visitors
Right: Lunar New Year celebrations
guests keepELC stud ents curious
Wonderfulvisitorsinspire young
interactions.
Left: Road safety awareness
Right: Apiculture fun
Above: Talented
PL C
on location USA!
5K
The Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM)
‘Sharing the Planet’ is the International Baccalaureate Unit of Inquiry (UoI) that inspired the 5K students to reflect and take action on the topic, ‘The waste we produce a ects our environment.’
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile asks that our students are inquirers, thinkers and risk-takers (as well as demonstrating many other attributes). And while they challenge themselves day to day in the classroom, AIS prioritizes bringing learning to life beyond North Fulton Drive! Students in every grade in the Primary Learning Center get to experience trips to destinations here in Atlanta, around Georgia and to other US states. Take a look at some of the places they’ve discovered, starting with 5K above…
G1 Warbington Farms
As part of the UoI ‘How We Organize Ourselves’ Grade 1 visited this special farm in Cumming, GA where they experienced what life on a working farm entails.
G2 Michael C. Carlos Museum
This trip connected the UoI ‘Where we are in place and time.’ Students were able to see artifacts connected to their study of Egypt, Rome and Greece.
G3 Night at the Zoo
G3 The High Museum & a Night at the Zoo
Grade 3’s High Museum visit was linked to the UoI ‘How we express ourselves,’ and their overnight stay at Zoo Atlanta (in place of their overnight camp at Wahsega) was linked to the Unit ‘Sharing the planet.’
G4 Space Camp
Our Grade 4 students had an out of this world experience with a two night stay at the US Rocket and Space Center in Huntsville, AL.
G1 Alliance Theatre
Grade 1 also visited the Alliance Theatre for the show Roob and Noob. The show reinforced the central idea of the UoI ‘How the world works,’ which is ‘Innovation continues to change the world.’
And for G5, turn the page...
JOURNEY G5 ABROAD
The Grade 5 Journey Abroad is a signature AIS travel experience, marking the culmination of our unique Primary School language programs. This spring, Grade 5 students ventured to remarkable places in China, Costa Rica, France, and Germany. Hear what they had to say about their adventures!
Spanish
COSTA RICA
Pablo Lezama
Some ways I used the language was when I went shopping or had to go to museums and people asked me stu . I had to respond to them in French. But also, I got used to the language a lot, so at one point I started speaking French with my friends.
I would definitely go on this trip again. This trip is tons of fun, and it’s a great opportunity!
Tica Biron
The sustainability of Costa Rica surprised me a lot. Costa Rica is really sustainable, and they’re trying to make it even more sustainable.
The thing that was most challenging for me was overcoming my fear of heights. We went ziplining... but my best friend helped me to overcome those fears!
Nobe Pham
Something that surprised me, when I went to China, was the beautiful architecture. It was very traditional and ancient, especially on the Great Wall. The way they designed it was smart.
I would 100% go back on this trip because there is a lot of growth involved when you’re going into a di erent country without your parents.
Chinese SHANGHAI & BEIJING
German BERLIN
We would play soccer there with some other kids from Germany, and speak to them in German.
I sometimes get nervous, and you need to have that confidence to speak the German that you speak.
Hear our intrepid Eagles in full by scanning the QR code below
Dev Urs
EAGLE SERVICE ACTION!
There are so many reasons why giving back is an integral part of AIS life. Participating in service and reflecting on the outcomes is a feature of the International Baccalaureate. It’s also an important way to build empathy, work collaboratively, develop new skills, and resilience. Here is a small selection of the many ways our secondary students have challenged themselves to give back this year.
G6 Sandwich Project
75 Grade 6 students and fifteen parents volunteered for the Sandwich Project. Together they made 1,446 sandwiches and raised $1,865 to help meet food scarcity needs in metro Atlanta.
G7 Perennial Garden at Bagley Park
Grade 7 students created a beautiful AIS garden at Bagley Park. It’s an easy walk from our Buckhead campus, so head over and look for the sign, “AIS Perennial Garden Established 2024.”
LEADERS IN FLIGHT
Secondary students joined parents and teachers volunteering at Lazarus Health Day, assisting people experiencing homelessness by serving meals and distributing personal care products.
G8 Sustainable Action
Grade 8 embarked on a direct service project to teach students in the ELC, Primary, and Middle Schools about global warming through fun, interactive activities.
G9 & 10 BBOP
Students in grades 9 and 10 helped BBOP (Baby Brain Optimization Project) to build toy kits that will be used in Georgia and worldwide to assist babies with cerebral palsy.
SS Lazarus Health
MATH IN MIND
Building Confidence Through Extracurriculars
By Lynn Martineau, Math Teacher and Coach
When it comes to math, confidence is key, so we are always looking for new ways to challenge and engage our students. That was the aim when we enrolled our newly formed Middle School Math Team in the AreteLabs Math Madness nationwide competition.
Math Madness is modeled after the NCAA March Madness Basketball Tournament, with our mathletes able to watch their progress and amplify their e orts throughout a semester. So in the fall of 2023 we signed up, were ranked 82nd out of 90 teams, and the games began!
To everyone’s delight, our AIS mathletes went on to win all their tournaments, reaching 11th place and qualifying for the championship bracket. The excitement kept building until finally, after 8 weeks of play, AIS finished fourth overall! With approximately 1000 teams from across the country competing at either elementary, middle or high school level, this result not only boosted the group’s self-esteem, but it got the attention of other students, making it cool to be a mathlete!
The e ects of a competition like this don’t end there; classroom math performances are boosted, students are more likely to go on to try other math-related, extracurricular activities such as Economics, Robotics or Investment Clubs.
Another competition, organized by PO STEAM, is Math Kangaroo. For over 15 years AIS students from 5K-Grade 12 have been developing a deeper love of math through this international competition. This year a record 115 students took part with several finishing in the top 10% internationally!
Whether school activities, summer camps or math games at home, they all boost skill and confidence. And when it comes to math, that all adds up!
Below: Lynn Martineau and the Middle School Mathletes
FILM FESTIVAL
Media plays an important role on #MyFreedomDay, helping to share student-led initiatives to end human trafficking with others around the world.
This year members of student-led group, AIS Against Human Tra cking, used the mighty medium of film to spread their important messages and to stir emotion. Enjoy the hugely successful, inaugural AIS #MyFreedomDay Film Festival entries.
BEE TRAFFIC
BY TAYLOR SPEED
Just scan the QR codes to watch each video.
ON THE PODIUM
Georgia High School Association (GHSA) Podium Appearances
Benoit Delly ’26, 4th 400m
Lilly Glass ’26, 5th 800m & 7th 1600m
Naomi Hackett ’25, 2nd 300m Hurdles & 8th 200m
Betsy Parker ’25, Diving, 3rd
Lilly Glass’26, Naomi Hackett ’25, Carolina
Kimmich ’27, Madison Parker ’27, 6th,
Girls Relay 4x400m
Girls Soccer, Final Four
Girls Tennis, State Runner-Up
Sectional Champions
Naomi Hackett’25, 300m Hurdles
Region Champions
Benoit Delly’26, 400m
Whitty Richardson ’26, Golf Area lowest score
Abel Starks ’24, High Jump
Varsity Boys Soccer
Varsity Girls Tennis
State Champions
Varsity Boys Soccer
College Athlete - Class of 2024
Finn Jacobson ’24 - Soccer, Emory University
Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Team Champions
Boys Soccer Blue
Girls Cross Country
Girls Golf
Girls Soccer
Girls Track and Field
MAAC Individual Champions
Stella Behrenwaldt ’29, 1600m
Stella Behrenwaldt’29, 3200m
Alize Dhariwal’29, Pole Vault
Leanne Glass ’28, 800m
Aiden Gonzalez ’28, 3200m
Stella McCormack ’30, High Jump
Keza Nchinda ’28, Golf
Abigail Young ’28, 100m
Rhea Collins ’28, Emilie Andersson-King ’28, Amelia Nguyen ’28, Olivia Nguyen ’29, Girls
Relay (A) 4x400m
STUDENT PARTICIPATION
SECONDARY STUDENTS 370 Spring ’24 2023 - 24 Winter ’2324 Fall ’23
PRIMARY STUDENTS
BASKETBALL CROSS COUNTRY DIVE ESPORTS
161
SECONDARY STUDENTS
SECONDARY STUDENTS
Betsy Parker DIVING IN AT THE DEEP END
In her inaugural year of competitive diving, Betsy Parker ’25, accomplished the remarkable feat of placing third in the 1A-3A GHSA Diving Championships and capturing a bronze medal.
Leading up to the GHSA Diving Championships, Betsy accomplished her qualifying score by placing first at the Chamblee Invitational. She followed that impressive result with a silver medal finish at Pace Academy’s Last Chance meet in the final tune-up before the championships.
Finn Jacobson ’24 led the Varsity Boys Soccer team to historic heights this year as they completed another undefeated regular campaign en route to their fourth straight GHSA finals appearance. The team lined up against Paideia for a second year in a row, this time hoping for victory. The boys missed out on the 2023 championship title to Paideia in a nail-biting penalty shoot-out.
But this year, with Finn’s attacking prowess up front, the team overcame Paideia in a thrilling 2-0 victory, winning their second GHSA championship in three years and capping a memorable AIS tenure for Finn.
Along with winning the two soccer championships, Finn was awarded the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s award for Male Athlete of the Year. This prestigious honor considers male athletes from schools all across Georgia. When asked what success meant to him, he said, “Success means happiness in what you’re doing in life, who you’re with and Finn will be attending Emory in the fall where he has committed to their soccer program, and where he will look to reunite with former AIS teammate and alum,
Betsy grew up an avid gymnast before making the transition to competitive diving. She looks to engage in the university recruitment process for diving as she enters her graduating year at AIS. We wish her the best
We celebrate and congratulate this year’s award-winning senior students, along with our Valedictorian and Salutatorian.
AIS 2024 Valedictorian: Martin Öman
AJC Cup Winner: Martin Öman
Martin is a national merit finalist, a state soccer champion, has an IB bilingual diploma, a STEM diploma, and is known for his exceptional kindness, maturity and care for the community! Speaking Spanish and Swedish at home, Martin joined AIS in 5K and gives 100% to everything he does. Our AIS 2024 Valedictorian plans to attend Georgia Tech in the fall to study industrial engineering.
In addition to this achievement, each year The Atlanta Journal-Constitution newspaper awards the AJC Cup to students who work hard to attain a well-rounded education. Nominated by the school, based on his academic excellence, leadership, community service, and extracurricular involvement, this year’s cup goes to Martin!
AIS Eagle Award: Chloé Jourdan-Gassin
AIS proudly introduces a new award in 2024. The AIS Eagle Award is given to students who exemplify the AIS mission, ‘To develop courageous leaders who shape their world for the better.’ Our first ever recipient, Chloé Jourdan-Gassin, is known for going above and beyond - through her involvement in IHOT Robotics, AIS Mock Trial, as a student ambassador, a new student buddy and by curating community events like the Senior’s brunch. Chloé truly represents the core values of an AIS Eagle.
AIS 2024 Salutatorian: Claudia Canovas
AIS Salutatorian, Claudia loves sciences and has a passion for diplomacy, economics, and global cultures. She has pursued her interests far beyond classroom learning, through internships, Model United Nations and as the founder of speaker series, AIS Global Talks. Fluent in English and Spanish, Claudia plans to study chemical and biomolecular engineering at Georgia Tech this fall.
ECIS Award for International Understanding: Omar Jingo
The Educational Collaborative for International Schools Award for International Understanding this year goes to exceptional global citizen, Omar Jingo. During a visit to Uganda, Omar discovered that access to food and medical care was hindered by a lack of public transportation - and the Bomlees Bicycles project was born. As his 10th Grade Personal Project, Omar won financial awards from AIS and the IB Innovators Grant, and has since helped to distribute bicycles and motorcycles to positively impact communities.
Always rising!
Top left to right
Nash Skoglund
Brayan Gomez
Noah Cobb
Congratulations to our inaugural AISx seniors! We are excited to see where their athletic and academic endeavors take them next.
Bottom left to right
Axel Hermenegildo
Michael Howard
Juan Hermenegildo
Creative Minds
Artistic Endeavors 3K-12
Scientific studies demonstrating the positive impacts of artistic activities on wider learning and brain development are numerous and well-documented. So while at AIS we encourage art for art’s sake, we know it does much more than scratch a creative itch. Whether o ering a neurological release from intense problem solving, or building cognitive connections between what they see and feel, and how to represent it, our students are constantly creating. Take in just a tiny exhibition of their work here.
Nathan Bine ’24 describes the ‘amazing’ but ‘pretty scary’ experience of conducting his own composition Elegy at the Georgia Music Educators In-Service Conference
How did you get into composing?
During lockdown at my grandparent’s house, I started to teach myself piano and began improvising which led to composing and making my own music. Later on, listening to a performance of Felix Mendelssohn’s String Octet in E-flat major, I was amazed at how just eight instruments could produce such a full sound. I wanted to emulate that kind of musical texture. I started with some chords, motifs and melodies, which expanded into a full chamber piece for string octet.
Tell us more about conducting Elegy.
It was an amazing experience. It was a bit stressful at first, being in charge of all the artistic decisions and having to lead the group, especially given that most of them were professionals or peers from AIS! I was also worried the piece wouldn’t come out as I had planned it in my head. However, as we did more rehearsals the music took form and I was very satisfied with the results at the competition! It was a great learning experience.
What were the challenges?
One of the main challenges was building up my confidence. Stepping up on the conductor’s podium, with all these accomplished musicians looking to you for direction was very intimidating at first.
Another one was deciding how I wanted each of the parts to be interpreted, choosing which instruments should be most prominent at which time.
Have any teachers or people particularly inspired you?
I would like to thank Mrs. Rosas, as she was the one who encouraged me to join the competition and helped me every step of the way.
I am also very grateful for the professional musicians who were patient with me, and my fellow AIS students who took time out of their busy school schedules to rehearse and perform my piece. They all contributed to making this unforgettable!
Nathan Bine
From top: Nathan conducting his own composition, Elegy, at the Georgia Music Educators In-Service Conference.
Nathan (right) with Gianmarco Di Pelino ’26, who performed and helped recruit other AIS musicians to play alongside the professionals.
More Musical Notes
Congratulations to all of our fantastic AIS musicians, across the whole school, who this year have performed hours of concerts and competed at the highest level. Our sincere thanks to the dedicated music teachers and performers who lead these popular programs.
AIS welcomes new families from all walks of life. But none quite like The Addams Family, who rolled into town as the first show of the 2023-24 theatre season! With talented Middle and High School students taking to the stage to bring these spooky and most definitely kooky characters to life, they soon became the new family favorites!
With spine-tingling performances, audiences were wowed by the choreography and powerful musical performances, along with incredible set design and production.
Continuing the season, the second ever Primary School production, A Year with Frog and Toad KIDS, opened with woodland friends waking from their winter-long hibernation. The adorable characters then took audiences on an adventure during which they drank tea, ate cookies, fed the birds, mailed letters (that were eventually delivered) and enjoyed wild swimming. Bravo to the cast and crew for this heartwarming treat!
And to close the season, our fearless Upper School theatre crew tackled challenging and poignant material in their polished performance of Radium Girls. Demonstrating impressive dramatic range, they recreated the tension of a fight for justice in an industrial setting, where the human cost of profit was barely counted.
AIS Theatre is an incredible program, run by a team of passionate teachers and supporters. Don’t miss out on next years’ shows which promise to be equally unmissable - see opposite.
Don’t miss out on our
Pippin Upper School, Nov 2024
Jungle Book KIDS
Primary Grades 3-5, Feb 2025
The Wizard of Oz Middle School, April 2025
Big Dream
Dorcas Bosombo
Dorcas Bosombo ’25 arrived at our meeting a few minutes early. She was on her way to the Class of 2024 graduation ceremony to support her senior friends and graciously o ered her time beforehand, to share her story and what inspires her to pursue her passions.
From Central and East Africa to the American Southeast
Dorcas was born in Uganda to Congolese parents and arrived at AIS during 6th grade after emigrating from Congo. Her heritage shapes the way she approaches her passions, especially dance. “My whole family dances. We all love music, so I started that path, and it’s just a way for me to express myself. Dance is that outlet for emotional expression.”
Creativity and Leadership
Dorcas brings her love for dance and other creative mediums to showcase Afro-representation at AIS. During a Grade 7 Physical and Health Education class, she was guest teacher and choreographer, sharing her passion for hip hop and Afrobeats dance. Also impressive was her leadership of the Black Students Union (BSU), organizing a Black History Month production that saw Black members of our learning community read poetry, perform
music, dance, and wear Africaninspired attire for a fashion show. “We wanted to showcase Black culture and display Black excellence,” Dorcas said. “As BSU leader, I try to make sure I foster that representation for Black students at our school ”
“To make an impact in the world and have people hear your voice, the best way is to try and reach people in a way they can understand. Creativity, that’s a universal language.”
Leadership Beyond AIS
Outside of school, Dorcas interns at Refuge Co ee, a non-profit co ee company originating in Clarkston, GA. Refuge employs resettled migrants and provides them with job training. She serves as Community Engagement & Event Coordinating Personnel. Soon she will shift to a policy role and be a part of discussions about bringing positive change for the Clarkston community.
Recently, Dorcas was awarded the Frederick Douglass & Susan B. Anthony award by the University of Rochester - one that recognizes a student with strong grades enrolled in rigorous humanities and social science courses, who demonstrates leadership and dedication to community action, and who is committed to understanding and addressing di cult social issues.
What’s Next?
When asked how she’d like to challenge herself in her final year at AIS, Dorcas said, “I’d really like to step into rooms where my identity is
not so much represented and be able to educate people on my identity, and the things revolving around it. In the past I have dimmed my own light because I felt like I didn’t belong somewhere. I want to have the confidence to speak up on issues that are happening.”
As our meeting came to an end Dorcas smiled and added, “I’m someone who dreams big. And I want to go big in senior year.” We can’t wait to see Dorcas’s dreams come true.
Peru Review
Travel and AIS go hand in hand. This year our secondary students visited Quebec, China, Costa Rica, and as featured here, Peru. The last AIS trip to Peru was in 2018 so this return visit in June 2024 was a new experience for everyone. The Creativity, Activity, Service trip took 20 students in grades 10 and 11 to discover and learn about this beautiful country. And what an enriching time they hadclimbing Machu Picchu, staying in a traditional Adobe style village near Cusco with Quechua hosts, practicing traditional ways of life, and exploring sustainable tourism with organizations in the area. Thank you to everyone who made this, and all AIS travel opportunities, possible.
There will be more trips on o er to secondary students during 2024-25. Look out for information when school starts, and during Secondary School Back to School Night on August 21st.
...it better expresses a part of me that people don’t really know that much about.
For this installment of #AISLife, David Acosta ’28 invited us into his thinking, planning and creative process for a Digital Design class project.
The task set was to create a shirt design that incorporated a personal reference - something that is unique and important to each student’s identity.
David began with a vision centered around his family. As the project progressed, he felt the growing significance of his Mexican cultural background, which he decided to weave into his shirt’s design.
David’s mother is from Tampico, and his father is from Pachuca - both important cities in Mexico. David’s exposure to his Mexican heritage, including through regular travel, gave him strong impressions that he wanted to explore. He cites
Mexico’s vibrant colors, food, repeating patterns, and faith, as elements from which he took inspiration.
Designing and sharing this project was important to David because, “It better expresses a part of me that people don’t really know that much about.”
He continued, “I never knew I enjoyed Digital Design until these last two years - when I built a longboard and this year when I’ve created three di erent designs, which I think all resonate with my background. I didn’t know it was possible to create such beautiful art, like in Mexico, and to reimagine a version that is fitting to me and my family.”
Scan the QR code to watch David’s #AISLife video.
Innovation is in our AIS DNA! We see it all around campus and in partnership with parents, and our city, creating exciting learning experiences for students and educators, such as those featured below.
Makerspaces
Thanks to the support of our Goizueta Foundation innovation grant and industry mentors, AIS Nest is a breeding ground for new ideas! Inspired by TV’s Shark Tank, secondarystudents, employees, and alumni can pitch ideas for a share of $15,000, and advice from the best in customer experience, production, marketing, and more.
AI-powered glasses for blind people, intuitive tools, and an E-bike transportation network - just some of the ideas pitched to our AIS Nest mentors.
From wood and glue guns to laser cutters, 3D printers and even lab equipment, our Primary and Secondary School Makerspaces are perfect spots for budding inventors to tinker and test.
Innovation to actualization processes flourish in the Makerspaces.
Age is no limit when it comes to innovation! Creative learning experiences start with our three and four year old students and extend all the way through to our employees. The AIS Innovation Program encourages everyone to participate and collaborate in designing new and engaging ways to develop and promote the joy of learning.
This summer a record 82 students from grades 9 to 11 interned at 32 institutions and companies, many of them for the second time. The result? Invaluable opportunities to gain insight into di erent professions and experience real-world learning. Thank you to all of our generous internship hosts.
Exploring Atlanta through the lens of innovation leads to valuable connections with other K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and local industry. Recent inspiring visits include the Georgia Tech Center for Music Technology, the Van Leer Interdisciplinary Design Commons & Makerspace, aka The Hive, and Google Atlanta headquarters.
Employees joined Misty Paterson, for an experience in ‘Deep Learning Made Playful.’
Veronica Roseman ’26 and Sofia Diaz ’26, 2024 interns at Ermi.
Google Atlanta tour with Workspace Customer Engineer, Sofia Eidizadeh ’19.
Schoolwide Innovation
Employee AISi
AIS Nest Innovations for Good
Summer Internships
Inventors
Dr. Peluchi Flores A Very Fond Farewell to
After 20 years at AIS, Dr. Flores is o to Mexico City as Director of Teaching and Learning at the American School Foundation. We look back on her remarkable journey.
Can you tell us what led you to AIS?
I grew up in a small village in the Philippines. One of my fondest memories is fetching water from the well with friends after school. We didn’t have running water, which inspired my collection of short stories, In Our Village (available on Amazon or Kindle).
After a full scholarship at one of the top universities, I taught IB Diploma Program Physics at an international school in the Philippines before joining AIS in 2004. Over the past 20 years here I have been a science and math teacher, Science Group Leader, STEAM Coordinator, and most recently, Director of Innovation 3K-12.
What are the changes you have seen, and what has stayed the same?
The expansion of our campus, including the Sports Activity Center, the Arts, Science and Design building, the ELC and Primary Learning Center, and now the new Sandy Springs campus.
Despite our growth, the community feel of AIS has remained unchanged. Our commitment to making each other feel welcome, appreciating our unique cultures, and supporting one another in times of need has continued to define our community.
What legacy would you like to leave?
The many ways of learning outside the classroom. Our internship program, student and faculty innovators, STEAM co-curricular clubs and the Da Vinci programs [where learning and teaching are shared with other schools around the world].
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of our students and alumni. They have initiated projects such as developing an app for speech therapy, combating climate change in Peru, organizing medical missions, and volunteering to build houses.
Our alumni are making significant contributions globally, from designing the future of cars, to teaching in remote villages with the Peace Corps, fighting human tra cking, and promoting STEAM and innovation in schools worldwide. Their achievements and impact fill me with pride.
Right: Peluchi’s book of short stories ‘In Our Village’ A Child’s Tale of Growing Up In Rural Philippines.
Far right: Peluchi, age seven, reciting a poem at a celebration in her village.
Dear Class of 2024,
I want to start by congratulating you on reaching this remarkable milestone. As you prepare to embark on the next chapter of your lives, it is important to reflect on the moments and people who got you through. The journey has not been without its challenges, but you have persevered with unwavering determination and resilience. Your ability to do this is truly inspiring, and a testament to the strength of character that each of you possesses.
During our short time together, I have had the privilege of witnessing your growth, not only as students but as individuals. I am in awe of your compassion, curiosity, and boundless potential, and am honored to have played a role in your journey.
As you prepare to take on the world, know that you will always have a champion in me and everyone here at AIS. We will never forget you, and we will be cheering you on every step of the way. The future is yours to shape, and we have no doubt that you will achieve greatness.
While it is tradition to wish our graduating class luck, instead I will wish you well. Trust in your knowledge and capabilities and remember to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead with courage and hope. Find joy in the pursuit of your dreams, and strive to make a positive impact on the world around you. You have the power to shape the world for the better, and I am confident that you will rise to the occasion.
Thank you for being my first class as Head of Year and for the privilege of getting to know each and every one of you. So, Class of 2024, go forth, chase your dreams, and never stop learning and growing. The world awaits your brilliance and we cannot wait to witness the incredible achievements that lie ahead.
Sincerely,
Michelle Meyers Head of Year - Grade 12
THE CLASS OF 2024
Country of Citizenship, Heritage
Rebecca Abou
France, French, Lebanese
David Adsay
United States of America, American, Taiwanese, Turkish
Lara Ahmed
United States of America, Egyptian, Irish
Alejandro Andrade
United States of America, Peruvian
Salma Bankston
United States of America, Afro Latina (American & Peruvian)
Caroline Barry
United States of America, American
Ved Bathina
United States of America, Indian
Nathan Bine
France, French
Kamil Bisbis
Morocco, United States of America, Moroccan
Jacqueline Brown
United States of America, British, Danish, Swedish
Claudia Canovas
Spain, Spanish
Grace Chamberlain
United Kingdom, British
Michelle Chapuis
United States of America, Vietnamese
Alexander (Alex) Cheeks
United States of America, American, Bolivian, Greek
Everitt Cisnado-Davis
United States of America, El Salvadorian
Andrés Cline
United States of America, Venezuelan
Noah Cobb
United States of America, American
Hannah Conaway
United States of America, American
Julia Cornella
United States of America, German, Irish, Italian
Nysa Creighton
United States of America, American, Virgin Islander
Edouard de Lestapis
France, French, Portuguese
Nicholas Decoufle
United States of America, English, French, Italian
Bjarne Detlef
Germany, German
Murilo Dreux
Brazil, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish
David Feingold
Germany, Israel, Jewish Ashkenazi
Avery Fierman (Posthumous)
United States of America, American
Callum Francis
United States of America, American
Diego Garcia-Ide
Sweden, United States of America, American, Cuban, Swedish
Joseph (Joe) Giovine
United States of America, American
Liam Nathaniel Glass
Germany, United Kingdom, United States of America, British, German
Gabriela (Gabi) Goetz
United States of America, German
Nicole Goetz
United States of America, German
Brayan Gomez
Mexico, United States of America, American, Mexican
Rafael Gonzalez Jacquorie Germany, Spain, German, Spanish
Maxim Goodall
United States of America, Australian, Chinese, English, Irish, Israeli, Jamaican, Russian
Aida Hakimi
Iran, United States of America, Iranian
Thomas Hampton
United States of America, American, Taiwanese
Axel Hermenegildo
Mexico, United States of America, American, Mexican
Juan Hermenegildo
Mexico, United States of America, American, Mexican
Michael Howard
United States of America, American
Emerson Ingram
United States of America, American Leandra Issa
United States of America, Canadian, German
Finn Jacobson
Germany, United States of America, American, German
Omar Jingo
United States of America, Ugandan
Zachary Jones
United States of America, American, Mexican
Chloé Jourdan-Gassin
France, American, French
William Kartochian
France, United States of America, Armenian, France
Amilcar Khalil
The Dominican Republic, Dominican
Benjamin (Benny) Kimmich
Belgium, Germany, United States of America, American, Belgian, German
Quinten Lemoine
United States of America, Dutch, French
Stella MacKelfresh
United States of America, American Valentina Martinez-Gonzalez
Mexico, United States of America, Mexican
Yuuto (Tyler) Matsuki
United States of America, Japanese
Lauren Mazzawi
United States of America, American
Caden McLary
United States of America, American
Isabella (Izzy) Merl
United States of America, Australian, Austrian
Inès Mermoud
France, Poland, French, Polish
Cole Merrill
United States of America, American, Filipino
Lucas Mo tt
Germany, United States of America, German
Mira Nath
United States of America, Indian
Nicholas (Nick) Nguyen
United States of America, Vietnamese
Martin Öman
United States of America, Colombian, Swedish
Lemi Ozbarlas
Germany, Turkey, United States of America, American, German, Turkish
Patrick Parker
United States of America, American, Austrian Aan Patel
Canada, Indian
Cali Paterson
Mexico, United Kingdom, British
Ayrton Po enberger
United States of America, American Sofía Polar
United States of America, Peruvian
Asia Quigley
United States of America, American, Nigerian
Stuart Richardson
United States of America, American
Aayushi Saha
United Kingdom, Indian
Micaela (Mica) Sanchez-Zinn
United States of America, Jewish, Uruguayan
Amelie Schalko
Austria, Austrian Eleonore Schmidt
Belgium, France, Belgian
Mia Semmler
Germany, German
Nash Skoglund
United States of America, American, Swedish Evelyn Staehle
Germany, German, Russian
Abel Starks
United States of America, American Noor Stewart
Germany, United States of America, American, German, Persian
Chloe Streichenberger
United States of America, Swiss
Nyla Swinton
United States of America, American Tolga Tekgul
United States of America, Turkish
Mikaella Thaiya
United States of America, Kenyan
Parth Thakar
India, Indian
John-Paul Theriot
United States of America, French, German, Irish, Italian
Milena (Millie) Thornton
United States of America, American, Russian
Linda Uwase Ngoga
United States of America, Rwandan
Inca Valdivieso Wooldridge
United Kingdom, United States of America, American, British, Panamanian, Ava von Kutzleben
United States of America, American
Samuel Warner
United Kingdom, English
Clarissa Willcock
France, British, French
London Williams-Garner
United States of America, African American
Sadie Willis
United States of America, American
Jack Yamaato
United States of America, American, Filipino, Japanese
Ezra Yeboah
United States of America, Ghanaian
Wishing all of our 2024 graduates the very best in their future endeavors. See above for a selection of the colleges and universities they’ll be attending.
College Counseling Passing on the Baton
Finding a new Head of College Counseling to replace Tyler Sant was a tall order - so we applied the same formula our students use to find the right universities. Scour the world to find the best possible fit academically, emotionally, and socially. Following that search, we are thrilled to introduce William Watter.
Welcome Will, please tell us about your career to date.
For most of my counseling career, I have been a ‘comprehensive’ counselor, meaning I’ve been responsible for both students’ social-emotional and university counseling. My wife and I started our international adventure in Beijing, China. This was followed by five years in the Republic of Korea before an opportunity came up to help build a school from scratch in Rabat, Morocco.
How do you think your experience will fit the AIS role?
I’ve helped students apply to highly selective universities in the US, UK, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, and many more places. I’ve guided students with varied academic interests, financial considerations, athletics recruitments, and applications to specialized programs. I’ve never experienced a college application cycle where I didn’t have to help students juggle varied deadlines and requirements.
Tyler - do you have any advice to share?
AIS is unlike any other school, there are so many unique o erings and opportunities. And in a community with dozens of di erent languages, there’s an additional language all our own – full of acronyms, abbreviations and AIS-speak. A good cheat sheet will go a long way!
Will also stands to benefit from the strength of the college counseling o ce. Claudia [Brand], Stacie [La Grow], and Christine [Kelley] have a huge amount of institutional knowledge and experience. He’ll have an excellent support network immediately in place.
Will - what are your aspirations for college counseling at AIS?
I hope that students and families will continue to find the college counseling o ce to be a space where they feel welcomed and supported. I also hope that the department’s data-informed approach will become a model for other professionals in the industry.
And Tyler - any final words?
Just to say how fun it is working every day in a dynamic school community that is always growing and evolving. From the IB Careers-Related Program to AISx, the new campus, and many more innovative happenings around the school, this is an exciting time in AIS history. And these opportunities will only further refine and shape what our graduates will be seeking after AIS.
Thank you Tyler and again welcome to Will!
Tyler Sant
William Watter
Celebrations and Commemorations
At AIS we are honored to welcome students, employees and families from around the world. Our community represents over 90 nationalities, 60 languages, and a multitude of identities, religions and cultures.
We love to see the holidays, celebrations, observances and awareness days, weeks, and months of this incredible community shared. Through parent and visitor classroom activities, all-community engagements, and displays in the school spaces and hallways, we all learn from each other.
We’ve seen beautiful representations during the last year, and would love to see even more. If you would like your culture or identity celebrated authentically, please complete the form below (scan the QR code) and wherever possible our Community and Belonging team will advise and help to facilitate your ideas!
Everybody’s Always Welcome!
When it comes to finding a welcoming community, no matter what your interests, the incredible AIS Parent Organization (PO) has you covered! With clubs and activities for everyone to join, there is always something going on and a place to feel a part of.
See the full range of clubs and activities on the PO page of myAIS and follow them on Instagram @aisparentorganization
Welcome to our PO Executive Board members for 2024-25;
And we thank outgoing President, Kate Kau man, Jennifer Sand and Jennifer Richman, the outgoing Secretary and Communications Liaison, and all the PO volunteers, for their tireless hard work and commitment to AIS.
Keep up with what’s coming up by taking note of some key PO events next year:
New Families Welcome Co ee - August 23rd
Welcome Social and General Meeting - August 27th
Amigos La Feria - September 13th
Ensemble Wine & Cheese - September 14th
Amigos Hispanic Heritage Panel - October 16th
Worldfest - October 20th
German Christmas Market - December 7th
PO Winter Social - January 31st
Harambee Black History Event - Feb 18th
Ensemble La Kermesse - April 11th
Amigos Noche Latina - May 3rd
A selection of some of our PO groups and events
From left to right: President, Rachel Sheehan, President-Elect, Paola Morlet, Treasurer, Nina McCormack, Marketing Liaison, Julie Schoen
Motivated by philanthropy, Inspired by India, powered by Google, and our other incredible sponsors - the 2024 Annual Spring Benefit broke all the records, raising over $600,000 for the student experience and financial aid at AIS.
With over 600 guests having secured a ticket to the sold-out event, the evening was a fantastic blend of friendships old and new, thrilling bidding on exceptional auction items, delicious Indian fare and proudly standing to support financial aid in our community. And did we mention the stunning outfits? They alone could fill the pages of another magazine! Thank you to everyone who made the evening the special success it was. And now all eyes on April 26th 2025, when we will be celebrating the style, flavors, and all things French.
A special thank you to the Spring Benefit Co-Chairs and Committee members who made the evening possible!
Kimia Amin . Pritpal Aujla . Smriti Bajaj . Sepi Bazdar . Star Bradley
Neerja Breja . Jasmina Chanbra . Ranjani Collins . Vera Dang . Keisha Escoffery. Manka Kaur Haddadin . Kate Kauffman . Rebecca King
Keshav Mehta . Riti Mehta . Bahar Nia . Ekta Patel . Mohini Patel
Manish Patel . Sumir Patel . Sindhu Pemmasani . Megan Penniston Aujla
Renuka Ramesh . Beemal Shah . Jason Shah . Sonal Shah
Stacy Shailendra . Padmini Sharma . Irma Shri . Tina Sharma . Neetu Singh
Manoshi Vin . Amara Walker . Patty Webb
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Mike Rezi Nissan Atlanta
Parramore & Quinn
Patty Webb, Harry Norman Realtors
Porsche RAH Technologies Regions Bank Reseco SG Contracting Smith+Howard
Surya Ensemble
Looking Back, Looking Forward
Arielle Garber Kohan ’01 Director of Advancement
When I walked through the doors of AIS for the first time, it was summer of 1999, and I was 16, a rising junior in high school. I had just returned from a summer in Poland after earning an academic scholarship to study the Polish language, live with a host family, and volunteer locally. Born and raised in Atlanta to American parents, it was the first time I had lived anywhere else.
When I came home to Atlanta, I missed being immersed in another culture and being challenged to think beyond my local community. As teenagers do, I staged a small rebellion, making the case to my parents that I couldn’t return to the same traditional Atlanta K-12 private school I had known all my life. To this day, I remain grateful that my parents listened and helped me find AIS. My AIS IB education changed the trajectory of my life, the way I see the world, the way I think and use my voice, and ultimately, it shaped the education and community I want for my two young daughters.
In fact, when I set out to start my career after attending Washington University in St. Louis, it was not my undergraduate experience but my AIS IB Theory of Knowledge class and Visual Arts culminating project that I referenced in my interview at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. I got that opportunity at the Met, which led me to discover the crucial role a development team plays in the life of a nonprofit organization. Throughout my career in fundraising, the greatest joy of my work is to help advance
worthy missions, through communitybuilding and philanthropy, including at the Guggenheim Museum, New York Botanical Garden, and The Hewitt School.
In 2021, the pandemic brought my family back to Atlanta, and last year, when the opportunity to return to AIS as Director of Development came up, it was another one of those lifechanging moments for which I will forever be grateful.
Passing through AIS’s doors again, just as I did in 1999, but this time as an employee, I was inspired by the same warmth of community I felt years ago when I was a student. As I walk our campus now - with greatly expanded facilities and our ever innovating curriculum - I feel that same energy of lifelong learning and the importance of intercultural community.
AIS is so special. We have a legacy of generosity. Our school was founded nearly 40 years ago through the e orts of a group of parents. They had a vision to open a school centered on languages and intercultural education in Atlanta. And now, today, our mission to prepare the next generation of globally-minded and forward-thinking leaders is stronger than ever.
In my role leading the Advancement Team at AIS, I’m grateful for the chance to work together with our parents, students, alumni and employees, to continue growing our community and culture of giving at a school that is not only deeply meaningful to me, but also inspires each of our students to open their eyes to the world, find their voice and path, and make their world better.
AIS, thank you for welcoming me back!
Meet Your Eagles Fund Ambassadors
The Eagles Fund is AIS's top annual giving priority, supporting our operations in the current school year and benefiting every AIS student, every day.
Each family has the opportunity to designate their gift, choosing to support the area of greatest need or directing their contribution to a specific mission area.
We are fortunate to have parents leading the way to 100% family participation. Meet The Eagles Fund Parent Ambassadors leading the way across all school levels, and join them. Together, we are All In Support of The Eagles Fund!
Betsy Bulat
Thomas ’34 and Wilhelmina ’36 Lower Primary School
Fabiola Stokes
Saige ’37, Sammy ’39, and baby Charlie Early Learning Center
Stacey Gall Stella ’23, Darcy ’25 and Enzo ’30 Upper School
Chesley Matthews Elizabeth ’30 Middle School
Eric Schmook
Nadia ’34 and Andie ’35 Upper Primary School
Dr. Linda Pak Bruner
William ’20, Wesley ’23, Maisie ’25 Upper School
The Eagles Fund is AIS's #1 number fundraising priority each school year, and it is the single most important way you can support AIS. Your gift provides immediate resources for all aspects of AIS's exceptional, intercultural IB education. We count on every AIS family to make a gift or pledge to The Eagles Fund during our September campaign. A donation of any amount truly makes a di erence. Make your tax-deductible contribution, sized right for your family at aischool.org/support/the-eagles-fund
Ways to give
Community is at the center of AIS, and fundraising is truly a community effort, in which we count on everyone to participate.
GA TAX CREDIT
The Spring Benefit is the largest fundraising and community event of the year at AIS, supporting our students and the Financial Aid Program. Each year we celebrate a di erent culture, and all parents are invited to attend, volunteer their time and talent by donating or sourcing auction items, corporate sponsorships, and of course, by attending, bidding, and enjoying a fabulous night in celebration of AIS.
The 2024 Inspired by India Spring Benefit, powered by Google and our other incredible sponsors and donors, broke all records. Next we will celebrate French culture, language and cuisine – please save the date for Saturday April 26, 2025
As a Georgia taxpayer, you can provide much-needed financial aid support to students who couldn’t otherwise attend AIS. Simply by redirecting a portion of your Georgia state tax dollars to AIS through the Georgia Tax Credit Program and Georgia GOAL (our state-approved partner) you can change students’ lives. In return, you will receive one to one credit on your Georgia State taxes. Last year, the AIS community applied to redirect more than $1,200,000 to support Financial Aid at AIS. Apply now through December 31, 2024 at www.goalscholarship.org
ON BOARD
The AIS Alumni Board, now in its fourth year, has a mission of fostering connections, supporting graduates and alumni, and championing AIS values. We want to thank the outgoing board members, Alex Akhavan ’06, Brittany Pavon ’05 (the first Alumni Board President), Ben Leblois ’07, Anusha Sthanunathan ’09, and Uwem Wilson ’19, for their service to this Board.
And we are pleased to announce five new members, who began their two-year terms on July 1st 2024. Each brings unique skills, fresh perspectives and experiences that will enrich the AIS community.
While at AIS, Will was involved in varsity soccer, theatre, and the Aprendiendo Inglés Sólido/La Amistad group. He went on to play soccer at Emerson College in Boston, where he graduated with a degree in Sports Communication in 2022. Will has a background in events and sports entertainment, with stints at The Gathering Spot, ESPN, and Overtime, where he now serves as Manager, Fan Experience & Community Engagement.
“AIS has had a profound impact on my life, which I see in my work, personal, and social life daily. I am so grateful now for the opportunity to give back to this school and to the people that make it special through service on the Alumni Board.”
Rana is a customer experience strategist in the airline industry. She earned her BA in Economics & Visual Arts from Emory University and her MBA from Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. Rana has held various roles at Delta Air Lines and is currently the General Manager of Business Development, directly supporting Delta’s Chief Customer Experience O cer. Fluent in French and Arabic, Rana lives in East Atlanta with her husband, Christoph Koehler ’10, their daughter Leyna, and their two cats.
“I’m passionate about giving back to AIS and delighted to serve on the Alumni Board. I believe that an education such as that at AIS, which provides access to di erent cultures, opinions, and backgrounds, is a fundamental cornerstone of building a strong and diverse community.”
Bonnie attended AIS for 14 years and helped lead AIS Against Human Tra cking and the Girls Varsity Soccer team. Bonnie completed undergraduate studies in International A airs & French at Georgia Tech and is currently a Global Account Manager at Intuit Mailchimp. In any free time, Bonnie enjoys playing soccer, racquet sports, and keeping up with women’s sports worldwide.
“As an Atlanta-native deeply invested in the AIS community, I am excited to advocate for the needs and interests of fellow alumni and promote the welfare of AIS and all its students.”
Nathan received his undergraduate at Emory University, then went to Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, followed by an internship and orthopaedic residency at the ‘Grady Hospital’ of Detroit. He returned to Atlanta in 2014 and is now a private orthopaedic surgeon at Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists. He is currently the Chief Medical O cer and CoFounder of Only Orthopaedics, and the Chief of Orthopaedic Surgery at Emory Decatur Hospital. Nathan and his wife, Samantha, have a son, Max.
“I am looking to give back to the community and working with alumni to maintain and continue the cultural traditions AIS instilled in me. The network of friends AIS built for me as a student and how AIS helped me get to where I wanted to be - I am grateful for this and feel the need to give back.”
Sofia pursued an Industrial and Systems Engineering degree at Georgia Tech and now works at Google Atlanta as a Customer Engineer. In her free time Sofia enjoys international travel, learning new languages, and spending time with friends and family.
“I am beyond excited to begin my term on the AIS Alumni Board. I am passionate about making meaningful impacts on the future generations of AIS Eagles by establishing mentorship and career advancement programs.”
Timur Selimovic ’10 will continue to lead the AIS Alumni Board in this, his final year as President.
Will Dean ’18
Rana El-Nahas ’10
Nathan Jové, M.D. ’01
Bonnie Watkins ’16
Sofia Eidizadeh ’19
ALUMNI IN
What comes to mind when you think of AIS alumni? Languages, IB Diplomas, intercultural competence and a global perspective? Of course. But with around 50% of AIS graduates going on to study Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts or Math fields at college and beyond, you should add STEAM to that list. We’re proud to share just a few stories from our alumni who are steaming ahead!
Amanda Claire Reeve (Claire) ’02 Design Director
Claire has built her career on creating solutions that blend creative design with modern technology. Drawing on a double major from SCAD and early experiences in graphics, visual and web design, real estate, and theatre, Claire has honed skills in creativity and craftsmanship.
Underscoring how studying the arts enhances creative thinking and problem-solving, Claire’s formative years in the AIS theatre program enriched her innovation skills.
Claire emphasized, “When performing, I increased my confidence in public speaking, which now aids me when presenting ideas to clients.” She also helped with set design and construction, using power tools and lighting equipment. Today Claire’s work isn’t just about making things visually appealing, it’s about usability, exploration, and meaningful experiences in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
Siri Belton ’08 Mechanical Engineer
Siri is a mechanical engineer specializing in designing and producing rescue equipment. She has degrees from Georgia Tech and Northeastern University. When asked about her motivation for choosing her career, she said, “Engineering is the process of using math and science to solve problems. At its core, it lets me understand the world and helps make it a little bit better… While I’m not in the field risking myself, what I’ve made has saved lives.”
Siri’s job involves navigating di erent work environments and understanding the cultural aspects of her projects. She believes engineers who understand multiple languages can communicate more e ectively in the globalized engineering environment. Siri took French and Spanish at AIS where she was also exposed to many other languages and cultures.
Shreyas Krishnapura ’16 Resident Physician
Shreyas, a recent Vanderbilt University School of Medicine graduate, is now at the University of Cincinnati as a Resident Physician in the Department of Otolaryngology (head and neck surgery). He received his undergraduate degree at Georgia Tech, where he studied biochemistry and economics. Shreyas’s early exposure to valuing diversity and STEAM at AIS helped shape his path toward becoming a physician.
Reflecting on this time, he embraced cultural diversity, learning to appreciate and respect di erent backgrounds. This laid the groundwork for his dedication to fostering inclusive environments where every person’s perspective and needs are valued.
Shreyas thrived in STEAM classes at AIS and shares that his now retired AIS teacher, Mr. Tony Locke, motivated him to study biochemistry in undergrad.
His areas of interest now include palliative care, using new technologies to enhance patient care and advocacy for the disability community.
Scan the QR code and follow the alumni on Instagram @aischoolalummni
Forget AI, all you need to answer any question is OneAIS - the online chat space used by all the AIS employees! Whatever you need, the community behind the chat is there to help!
Car won’t start! Help is on the way.
Looking for a sweet treat? We can help to locate cake, cake and more cake on campus!
Need a chicken-sitter? No problem, of course this community can help!
Lost a phone? Found a phone? OneAIS will now reconnect you.
How to save an opossum family? Hold on, we have marsupial experts!
Birthdays, babies and brilliant moments. OneAIS will celebrate with you.
Who’s the prettiest pet?
Ask Mr Neill Ford about Leia (ahhh)!
For daily shout outs , IHOT Robotics competition progress , lightning warnings , ATLUTD tickets , (did we mention cake ), GIFs galore and anything else an employee might need, the OneAIS school chat space keeps the community abuzz with information and assistance.
Highly intelligent
Amazing vision to see the world
Not afraid to use a unique voice
Eagle feet are super fast
Swoop, the AIS mascot, is a true AIS Eagle as you can see!
Dressed to impress with Eagle pride
Strong wings soar high
OUR MISSION
To develop courageous leaders who shape their world for the better.
OUR CORE VALUES
The joy of learning and purposeful e ort. Mutual respect and understanding in an intentionally inclusive and intercultural community.
OUR APPROACH
To lead as individuals and as members of their communities, future-ready young people must learn to thrive in ambiguity and uncertainty, pairing deep self-knowledge and empathy with the skills to think analytically and constructively. We believe it is essential to develop the capacity to consider one’s decisions and actions within an ethical framework grounded in a spirited sense of hope in human potential.
We create a safe, stimulating educational environment, promoting the wonder and curiosity that motivates a student to learn in and beyond the classroom and throughout life. We believe that achievement derives from sustained, purposeful e ort and by learning to think critically, debate confidently, question assumptions and push our limits. We believe language and culture shape and inform identity. We delight in di erence, opening ourselves to authentic and meaningful interactions with various cultures both in school and in life. We commit ourselves to grow and change individually and together, to ensure every learner’s identity, language, and values are respected.
AIS NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
Atlanta International School practices a full nondiscriminatory policy in all school-administered programs and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national and ethnic origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation or gender preference in all of its admissions, educational and employment policies, programs, and practices.
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