Lower School: Anatomy Academy
Middle School: Robotics Team
Upper School: Engneering Certificate Program Host Families 2024 Commencement
National Academic Recognitions
Student-Athletes: Taking it to the Next Level
State Championship Teams
Arts Feature: Sydney Cortina ’24
Upper School: Technical Theater
Golden Bell Society
Golden Bell Donor Feature: Goulding Family
Porch Party
Alumni Council
Alumni Highlight: Olivier J. Van Dierdonck ’08
It seems that every year I have the privilege of boasting about all that has been achieved by our students and our faculty and staff. The 2023-2024 school year at Cape Fear Academy is no exception. Here are just a few reflections on another wonderful year at CFA.
We began the year with a record enrollment of 757 students as satisfied parents continued to recommend CFA to their friends and family. Thankfully, with the summer’s installation of a temporary modular building which adds eight classrooms to our campus, we will have plenty of space for our outstanding teachers to deliver our top-notch academic program to our bright and eager students.
Our Hurricanes celebrated achievements across the academic, artistic and athletic landscape garnering national recognition by the College Board, as well as Regional and State competitions. We celebrated the Class of 2024, with 58 graduates admitted to 83 different colleges and universities. These incredible students racked up an impressive 67% acceptance rate, won many national academic awards and earned over $1.5 million in merit scholarships.
Trustees, Parents, Alumni, Faculty and Staff, and Friends of CFA gave generously this year to CFA. In addition to the strong performance of the Annual Fund, which raised more than $450,000, we received a $5 million gift targeted at increasing our racial diversity, specifically for gifted students who, without this support, would not have been able to receive a CFA education.
The CFA Board of Trustees and Administration spent the better part of the school year developing a strategic plan that will ensure that CFA retains its well earned reputation as the leading academic institution in the region for many years to come. This year will be dedicated to developing a longrange campus master plan to take advantage of the recently acquired 11.4 acres of adjacent land. This process will take a great deal of time and energy. We will be looking for input from everyone in the community as we undertake this important effort.
With the continued commitment and care of our brilliant faculty and staff, the energy and spirit of our amazing students, the dedicated and ongoing encouragement of our generous parents and friends, and under the careful stewardship of our devoted trustees, we are confident that CFA has many years ahead of us to continue offering our students a rich academic environment, a wealth of opportunities, and an abundance of care as we advance our mission in meaningful ways.
Edward M. Ellison Head of School
(listing by primary constituency type only) MEDIAN GIFT $250
INTERESTED IN A PLANNED GIFT TO CFA?
Alumni
$26,459 (5.82%)
Former Parents
$17,409 (3.83%)
Foundations & Other
$36,780 (8.09%)
Faculty & Staff
$8,415 (1.85%)
Grandparents
$46,425 (10.22%)
Trustees
$75,625 (16.64%)
Current Parents
$243,391 (53.57%)
TOTAL
$454,504
Leave a lasting legacy with a planned gift to CFA. To explore your giving options, contact Melissa Blackmon at 910.218.7192 or melissa.blackmon@capefearacademy.org. Your generosity can make a difference for generations!
Laura Bowen’s journey with CFA began in the summer of 1992. Initially hired as the Upper School and Middle School Administrative Assistant and Registrar, Bowen’s role quickly evolved. “I started as a teaching intern alongside the Upper School Director in one course,” Bowen recalls. “Over a few years, I transitioned from administrative assistant to full-fledged teacher.”
Bowen’s versatility is evident in her varied roles over the years. Apart from her primary focus in the social studies department, she has been a cheerleading coach, yearbook advisor, summer camp coordinator, SGA advisor, and Social Studies department chair. Her teaching repertoire includes four different AP classes, with an emphasis on European and World History. Today, she teaches AP World History and AP Research while also serving as the advisor for the Upper School Honor Council.
Reflecting on her tenure, Bowen has witnessed transformative changes at CFA. “When I started, the campus had just two buildings: Godwin Gym (now the McNeill Fine Arts Center) and Godwin Hall. My office was in a supply closet, which is now a restroom in the Head of School’s suite,” she reminisces.“The cafeteria was in the center of
Godwin Hall, and our first ‘theater’ was where the Lower School Director’s office is located.”
Bowen emphasizes the advancements in CFA’s academic, athletic, and fine arts programs. “CFA has always been excellent, but now, I believe we are the preeminent school in Southeast North Carolina and among the top in the state. The Board of Trustees and administration have always focused on growth and progress while sustaining excellence,” she says.
Bowen has been a consistent contributor to the Annual Fund since her early days at CFA. “As a teacher, contributing to the Annual Fund shows my commitment to the school’s success and belief in its mission,” she explains. “I understand how crucial the Annual Fund is to the school’s operation, providing resources that allow CFA’s faculty to maintain cutting-edge programs and offer an unmatched student experience.”
Throughout her tenure, Bowen has witnessed countless student successes, both within CFA and for alumni. “As a member of the Upper School faculty, I get to see the completion of students’ academic journey and who they are on their way to becoming. Whether it’s in athletics, the arts, STEM, or the
humanities, there are opportunities for students to explore their interests and find their niche.” She explains that teaching the AP Research class has allowed her to see this firsthand. “A student whose love of film has been nurtured by Benedict Fancy spends a year researching and ultimately producing her own film stills. A student, inspired by their experience in Keni Rienks’ environmental science classes, chooses to research green architecture and creates a green roof design suitable for the climate in SE North Carolina. A competitive athlete, who will continue their athletic career in college, researches the nutrition needs of athletes, studies the offerings in CFA’s cafeteria, and creates a set of recommendations to help better meet the needs of its athletes. Finally, a STEM student, inspired by their experience in Carr Fullagar’s computer science classes, decides to explore the creative potential of AI by researching the capabilities of different generative AI platforms and then tests each one’s ability to write poetry.”
As Bowen reflects on her journey with CFA, her sense of pride and optimism for the future is palpable. “CFA has come a long way in the past 30+ years, and I’m excited to see where we go from here. The dedication of our faculty, staff, and community is truly inspiring,” she concludes.
Tuition
$16,246,088 (83.65%)
Other
$1,605,807 (8.27%)
Restricted & Unrestricted Donations
$1,568,849 (8.08%)
Total Revenue
$19,420,744
Salaries & Benefits
$11,184,084 (57.59%)
Facilities Operations
$2,813,977 (14.49%)
Instructional Expenses
$1,435,801 (7.39%)
Debt & Reserve Expense
$1,724,534 (8.88%)
School Wide Operational
$1,396,449 (7.19%)
Financial Assistance
$865,899 (4.46%)
Total Expenses
$19,420,744
Connor Keller, Chair P ’29
Chris Fikry, Vice-Chair P ’27, ’29
Jason Dahl, Treasurer AP ’18, ’18, ’21 P ’23
Elizabeth Wells, Secretary P ’27, ’31
Kelly Burnette P ’23, ’26
Paul Colvin P ’25
Suiter Currin ’08, P ’34, ’36
Emily Garriott P ’26, ’29, ’33
Andrea Johnston AP ’21, ’22
Hal Kitchin P ’28
Beth Adams Magrath P ’27
Mark Maynard Jr. ’05, P ‘37
Trip Meine AP ’21, P ’23
Richard "Dick" Moore AP ’15, ’19, ’19
Tee Nunnelee ’96, P ’31, ’34, ’35
Crystal Peebles AP ’21, P ’24, ’29
Jill Webb AP ’20, ’22
Ed Ellison, ex officio
Each year, our enthusiastic kindergarteners don their little scrubs and proudly showcase their impressive knowledge of human anatomy to friends and family at Anatomy Academy. While their adorable and informative performance at the Fine Arts Center might be brief, Anatomy Academy is a cross-divisional, hands-on learning experience that spans several weeks and involves both Kindergarten and 7th-grade students, continuing a tradition for many years.
Anatomy Academy instills a sense of pride and accomplishment in both sets of students as they teach and learn from each other. Those who continue at CFA from Kindergarten experience a fullcircle moment when it’s their turn to lead as middle schoolers.
Six weeks before the performance, our kindergarteners dive into the fascinating world of muscles, bones, and organs. They learn about each part of the body through engaging books, interactive activities, and fun songs. As they explore each organ, the students complete an Anatomy Academy journal. These incredibly bright young learners manage to become specialized doctors in various areas of the body, well before medical school! During the performance, they confidently share with the audience the type of doctor they are and key facts related to their field, showcasing remarkable public speaking skills.
Years ago, science teacher Becca Scott, alongside the Kindergarten team of Lisa Connaughton, Michelle Stoddard, and Katie Macdonald, collaborated to enhance Anatomy Academy. They transformed it into a dynamic leadership experience for Middle School students. Initially, kindergarteners simply visited to view human body cells under the microscope. However, it has since evolved into a comprehensive learning experience for 7th graders.
Each 7th grader is placed in a group of 4 to 5 students and assigned an organ or body system to study. They receive a background packet to complete and are responsible for creating a specialized station for the Kindergarten students. The middle schoolers have the freedom to design these learning stations, always showcasing their creativity. This year, stations included activities like Play-Doh dissections, nutrient testing, building lung models, examining X-rays, and using pulse oximeters to measure pulse before, during, and after exercise. This year was extra special because the 7thgrade students were the first class of kindergarten students to participate in this special collaboration.
Anatomy Academy instills a sense of pride and accomplishment in both sets of students as they teach and learn from each other. Those who continue at CFA from Kindergarten experience a full-circle moment when it’s their turn to lead as middle schoolers. This connection and community spirit are at the heart of what makes our school so special!
The Middle School Robotics program at CFA has evolved from a classroom initiative to a competitive powerhouse. Previously limited to noncompetitive classes, the program was restructured, inspired by the Lower School's success, to focus on competitions, offering students a larger stage to showcase their talents.
“Middle School Robotics at CFA has grown into a competitive powerhouse, giving students a stage to showcase their talents and build teamwork.”
– Bill Kanzinger
Competitive Robotics is a Middle School elective allowing students to deeply engage with the subject. Students enrolled in the class are placed on teams of no more than 10, fostering collaboration and camaraderie. The 2024-2025 season began in August with the release of the First Lego League's 2024-25 theme, Submerged. Students then formed teams and designed robots that could complete as many challenges in the Robot Game as possible. They also developed a virtual reality experience based on the Submerged theme.
This 2024-2025 team is looking to build on the success of the 2023-2024 team. That season started with a Regional Qualifier event hosted by Cape Fear Academy on December 2, 2023, where one team advanced to the State Semifinal.
On December 9, the team competed in the State
Semifinals in Raleigh, earning another runner-up trophy for their Innovation Project, and qualifying for the state tournament. The season concluded on January 13 at the State Championship at NC
A&T State University, where the team delivered outstanding performances.
The key takeaway from this season was the students' ability to handle stress with maturity and adapt to new challenges. Observing other successful teams provided valuable insights for future competitions. The students not only improved their engineering and programming skills but also grew as individuals, learning important life skills.
The 2023-2024 season has laid a strong foundation for the future of Middle School Robotics at CFA. With the lessons learned and bonds formed, the program looks forward to what the future holds.
The Engineering Certificate Program at CFA stands out as a beacon of innovation and forward-thinking. Designed for Upper School students interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), this unique program not only enriches their academic experience but also prepares students for college and life. Ed Naessens, Brigadier General and retired CFA Physics & Engineering teacher, provided insight into its origins, growth, and impact on students.
The Engineering Certificate Program offers a specialized curriculum for students interested in a STEM career or college major. Participants explore engineering fundamentals, including the design process, engineering economics, mechanical drawing by hand, and computer-aided design (CAD). This head start in a supportive, close-knit environment leaves students feeling grateful for the valuable knowledge they gain as they embark on their next chapters.
The
Engineering Certificate Program offers a focused STEM curriculum, teaching essential engineering skills like design and CAD. As interest grows across all school levels, the program is set to expand with more opportunities for hands-on learning.
The idea for the program was born in 2019 when the school’s strategic plan emphasized enhancing STEM opportunities. The school’s support was evident in its investment in a state-of-the-art woodshop, new laboratory classroom combinations, and advanced STEM equipment.
The program started modestly, with only five students in its first year. However, interest has grown steadily, with current enrollment nearing 20 students annually. Naessens envisions even greater expansion now that STEM programs are prominent
in both Lower and Middle Schools. Looking ahead, the program aims to strengthen its integration across all school levels and foster more industry connections for experiential learning. Naessens feels optimistic about the future, and we look forward to what’s to come!
“This photo embodies what hosting has meant to our family. These boys have converged from across the country and Canada into our home, to spend part of their summer together - and our lives are so enriched because of it. In the Strauns especially, our family has basically doubled in size - with plans to spend Christmas all together already underway. This is an experience we would not have had without CFA and the basketball exchange program, and we will be forever grateful.”
- Alexis Wall
On Friday, May 24, Cape Fear Academy hosted its 54th Commencement Exercises for the 58 members of the Class of 2024.
Graduates and their family members gathered in the Athletic Center Main Gym to honor this exceptional class.
The Class of 2024 has earned a place among the top universities and colleges across the country and around the world. Their impressive accomplishments include a Benjamin N. Duke Scholar, a North Carolina Youth and Government Governor, and a winner of the 2024 North Carolina Azalea Festival Youth Art Contest. Collectively, the class received 254 acceptances from 137 different colleges, with seven student-athletes committed to playing collegiate sports.
Valedictorian
Cooper Herrett Salutatorian Nadejda Kotlyarevska
Head of School Award
Allie Haslam
Alumni Award
Cooper Herrett
School Service Award
Mariel Cantalapiedra
Riley Lallathin
The members of the Cape Fear Academy Class of 2024 were accepted to the following colleges and universities.
American University
Appalachian State University
Arizona State University (Tempe)
Auburn University
Barry University
Belmont University
Boston College
Boston University
Campbell University
Cape Fear Community College
Chapman University
Christopher Newport University
Clark University
Clemson University
College of Charleston
Creighton University
Davidson College
Drew University
Duke University
East Carolina University
Elon University
Emerson College
Florida Atlantic University
Florida State University
Fordham University
Furman University
George Mason University
George Washington University
Georgetown University
Hamilton College
High Point University
Hobart and William Smith Colleges
IE University (Madrid, Spain)
Lehigh University
Louisiana State University
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola University Chicago
Loyola University Maryland
Mary Baldwin University
Marymount Manhattan College
Methodist University
Michigan State University
Mississippi State University
Monmouth University
North Carolina State University
Nova Southeastern University
Penn State University (University Park)
Quinnipiac University
Radford University
Robert Morris University
Rochester Institute of Technology
Salve Regina University
Savannah College of Art and Design
Southern Methodist University
St. Lawrence College
Swarthmore College
Syracuse University
Texas Christian University
The New School
The University of Alabama
The University of Tampa
Union College
University College Cork
University of Arkansas
University of California (Riverside)
University of Central Florida
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Delaware
University of Florida
University of Georgia
University of Kentucky
University of Maryland (College Park)
University of Miami
University of Mississippi
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
University of North Carolina Wilmington
University of Oklahoma
University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh)
University of Richmond
University of San Francisco
University of South Carolina
University of Virginia (Main Campus)
University of Wyoming
Villanova University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech)
Wake Forest University
Washington and Lee University
William and Mary
Wofford College
Yale University
Lower School
Blue & Gold Award (5th Grade)
Chloe English ’31, Bryan Wells ’31, Webb Wells ’31
Faculty Recognition Award
Turner Tait ’31, Rebekah Wang ’31, Arabella McCombs ’31
Middle School
Triangle Award
Jackson Renton ’28
True Blue/Solid Gold Award
Rory Hall ’28 & Ethan Gatt ’28
Faculty Recognition Award
Keslie Connaughton ’28 & Owen Holt ’28
Head of School’s Purchase Awards
Gia Davidson ’24, Nadejda Kotlyarevska ’24, Charlee Vliet ’24
Simmons-Wenning Scholarship for Fine Arts
Salem Morrow ’24
Highest Academic Achievement Award Salutatorian & Valedictorian
Cooper Herrett ’24 (Valedictorian)
Nadejda Kotlyarevska ’24 (Salutatorian)
Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Recipient
Kameo Morrison ’26
Cape Fear Academy Core Value Awards
Stella Reid ’27, Vance Mino ’26, Ethan Burnette ’26, Elsa Black ’26, Isaiah Gibson ’25, Samuel Strickland ’25, Carolina Bariglio ’24, Nadejda Kotlyarevska ’24
English Department Award
Tyler Beacham ’24
Barbara Proctor Award
Catherine Broderick ’25
Social Studies Department Award Recipients
Cooper Herrett ’24
World Language Department Award
Nadejda Kotlyarevsk ’24
Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica – “Premio de honor”
Mariel Cantalapiedra ’24
Math Department Award
Cooper Herrett ’24
Science Department Awards
Mariel Cantalapiedra ’24 and Nadejda Kotlyarevska ’24
Dott Taylor Hooten Award
Nadejda Kotlyarevska ’24
Engineering Certificates
Mariel Cantalapiedra ’24, Logan Rogers ’24, Baden Salinas ’24, Ian White ’24, Nicholas Spinola ’24 and Jacob Borstad ’24
Computing, Innovation, &
Design Department Award
Levent Erdem ’24
AP Capstone Department Award
Allison Haslam ’24
Band Director’s Award
Laura Austria ’24
Honors Band Award
Charlee Vliet ’24
Chorus Director’s Award
Lilia Wall ’25
Honors Vocal Ensemble Award
Cooper Herrett ’24
Excellence in Visual Art Awards
Sydney Cortina ’24 & Nadejda Kotlyarevska ’24
Scholastic Art Award Recognition
Sydney Cortina ’24
Outstanding Performance and Contribution to the Theatre Arts Award
Mila Middleswarth ’26
Excellence in Technical Theater and Design Award
Juliana Martinez ’25
Sewing and Fashion Design Award
Katharine Watson ’25
Excellence Leader of the Publications Hive Awards
Tyler Beecham ’24, Delia McFarlane ’24, Adam Politi ’25, Camden Sheally ’25, Louise Wells ’25, Libby Wells ’26
Publications We Can’t Thrive Without our Worker Bees Awards
Sienna Ezzell ’24, Martha Trask ’24, Megan Connaughton ’24, Riley Palmer ’25, Gunnie Beacham ’26, Olivia Hollingsworth ’26, Cora Bariglio ’26, Ella Berkey ’27, Sofia Pasquantonio ’26, Marakesh Lubbers ’27, Harper van Vliet ’26
Publications Hive Drone Awards
Carolina Bariglio ’24, Ian Itzkowitz ’25, Channing DeFrancesco ’28, Sydney Cortina ’24
Photography Department Awards
Leah Chichilnitsky ’25, Alexandra Ord-Webb ’27, Scarlett Sweyer ’26
Cooper Herrett ’24 was awarded the Benjamin N. Duke Scholarship at Duke University. This prestigious four-year, fullride merit scholarship covers all mandatory fees and provides funding for research and travel opportunities. The scholarship program selects students from North and South Carolina who excel academically and demonstrate a commitment to civic engagement, with a focus on strong academics, dedicated leadership, and community service.
Cooper Herrett ’24 and Charlee Vliet ’24 are both National Merit Recipients. The mission of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) is to recognize and honor the academically talented students of the United States.
Kyle McCarthy ’24 was named a USA Lacrosse AllAmerican for his excellence on the field. A boys' and girls' All-American is a player who exhibits superior skills and techniques and possesses exceptional game sense and knowledge. A USA Lacrosse All-American is one of the best players within their respective area of the country while also embodying excellent sportsmanship.
Luis Gonzalez ’24 received the 2024 Bob Scott Award from USA Lacrosse. Named in honor of the legendary coach and member of the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame, this award recognizes one male senior player from each area who goes ‘above and beyond’ in service to his team, school, and community.
Baden Salinas ’24 earned a National Recognition Award from the College Board. This program recognizes underrepresented students who have at least a 3.5 GPA and score in the top 10% on the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT10 within the program by state or score a 3 or higher on two or more AP Exams.
Kameo Morrison ’26 received the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Award (HOBY). HOBY’s mission is to inspire and develop our global community of youth and volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service, and innovation.
Cape Fear Academy’s High Tide studentrun literary and arts magazine has been recognized as a REALM First Class magazine by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). In only its sixth year of inception, this is the fifth year in a row the magazine has received an honor for its excellence in this nationwide contest, this year achieving the highest honor of REALM FIRST CLASS. Editor-in-Chief Jagger van Vliet ‘23 was instrumental to the success of our 2023 magazine, and indeed to the last four years of his involvement on staff. Editors at large Aurelia Colvin ‘23, Bella Erichsen ‘23, Ryan Burton ‘25, and Porter O’Brien ‘25 were also essential to the professional design, fluid layout, and efficient publication of the magazine. A truly student-led effort, our staff was guided and supported by faculty advisers Emily Fancy and Amanda Holliday.
Seven members of the Class of 2024 graduated into new endeavors as collegiate student-atheletes.
Kyle McCarthy
Loyola University (MD)
Men’s Lacrosse
Robert Morris University
Men’s Lacrosse
Drew University
Men’s Lacrosse
Swarthmore College
Men’s Tennis
Imogen Marino
Hobart and William Smith College
Women’s Cross Country
Methodist University
Tiffin University
Men’s Basketball
NCISAA Division II State Champions, CPIC Conference Champions
Final Record: 17-2 - NCISAA State Champions, CPIC Champions
MVP: Taylor Garriott Leadership: Tyler Beacham Coaches: Liza Wells AWARDS
NCISAA All-State:
Taylor Garriott
Liza Wells
Alex Zakszeski
CPIC Coach of the Year
Kris McGrath
CPIC All-Conference:
Gunnie Beacham
Taylor Garriott
Liza Wells
Alex Zakszeski
Honorable Mention
All-Conference:
Tyler Beacham
Olivia Hollingsworth
Lilia Wall
Final Record: 17-2 – NCISAA State Champions, CPIC Champions
MVP: Leadership: Coaches: AWARDS
CPIC All-Conference:
Hayes Gilbert
Ben Kane
Max Weckel
Owen Watkins
Levent Erdem
CPIC Coaches of the Year
Alan Donald
Jon Ingam
“Last year, Sydney went to the North Carolina Executive Mansion for the Official Proclamation of the Azalea Festival. She presented Governor Roy Cooper with a copy of her ‘Bygone Belle,’ to be placed in his personal art collection.” – Star
The Technical Theater and Design class at Cape Fear Academy is more than just an elective—it’s a year-long journey into the heart of what makes a theater production come to life. Open to Upper School students, this course offers a comprehensive dive into all aspects of technical theater, from set design and construction to lighting and sound. But what does it take to turn a classroom project into a full-scale production?
The Technical Theater and Design class taught by Benedict R. Fancy, Performing Arts Technical Director, enrolls 24-30 enthusiastic students each year. These students are graded on practical design assignments and projectbased tasks tailored to each of the five theater productions staged throughout the season. The curriculum is designed to cover every backstage element—from drafting design plans to constructing props and handling lighting and sound design.
models. “My role was to then turn their 11 scale models into one cohesive design that contained a scenic aspect from all of their models,” notes Fancy.
Inspiration for the designs comes from a variety of sources: the script, historical and conceptual research, previous productions, and online photographs of the locations. Combining all these ideas into one cohesive set design involves using drafting software like Vectorworks to create a ground plan that incorporates elements from everyone’s work. “It’s the first time I have attempted to capture this many groups’ work into one design, and I think it ultimately worked,” Fancy remarks.
“Collaboration is at the heart of the class, and the magic happens when students see their designs come to life.”
– Benedict R. Fancy,
The process of creating a set for the Upper School musical, such as their recent production of “Mamma Mia!,” begins long before opening night. Preproduction starts six weeks prior, right after the winter play closes. Students begin with research and analysis of the script and historical context.
For “Mamma Mia!,” students were tasked with using an architect’s scale ruler to hand draft and create 3D white card scale models of the set. Working in pairs, the 11 groups each developed original design concepts, which were then transformed into 3D
Collaboration is at the heart of the Technical Theater and Design class. Students work together through research, discussion, model mock-ups, and revisions. The true magic happens when students see their designs come to life. “They freak out!” Fancy says with a smile. “It’s one thing to draw ideas and concepts, make models, and previsualize a set, but assembling it onstage and adding the finishing touches during tech week gives them a true appreciation for the entire process.”
The Cape Fear Academy’s Technical Theater and Design class is more than just a behind-the-scenes look at theater production. It’s an immersive experience that teaches students the value of collaboration, creativity, and sustainability. Through their hard work and dedication, these students bring stories to life, creating magic on stage and memories that last a lifetime.
Gold Circle ($10,000 & up)
Mike and Amanda Baker *
Jennifer and Jason Dahl *
Emily and Huntley Garriott *
Zebulon Z. Hadley, IV
Andrea and Jim Johnston *
Tanya and Peter Kane *
Liz ’87 and Nelson ’77 MacRae
Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation
Jill and Chris Scerri
Catherine and Randy Tyre *
Wells Brothers Construction
Silver Circle ($5,000-$9,999)
Kym and Robby Adams *
Balloun Family Foundation
Elizabeth and Stephen Beacham *
Kelly and Duane Burnette *
Cheryl and Paul Colvin *
Meilia and Gerald Cox *
Suiter ’08 and Ben ’08 Currin
Kathy and Ed Ellison
Ashley and Joel Essington
F-3 Semper Communitas
Stephanie Mann and Chris Fikry *
Joan and Thomas Fitzpatrick
Samantha Gardner
Danielle and Brett Goulding *
Kate and Brian Groat
Susan and Dustin Gross
Veronica and Eddie Hales
Amy and Boyd Harris
Ellen and BJ Losch
Beth Adams and Scott Magrath *
Janna and Mark ’05 Maynard
Gray and Tee ‘96 Nunnelee *
Holly and John Overton
Kari and Michael Papagikos *
Crystal and Harrison Peebles *
Holly and Morgan Sullivan
Katharine ’85 and Steve Sullivan *
Shannon and Calvin Wells *
Elizabeth and Vin ’94 Wells *
Bronze Circle ($2,500-$4,999)
Dan Cameron Family Foundation
Stewart and Peter DiFiore
Donna and Thomas Gardner
Heather and Josh Glover
Sara and Ash Hepburn
Mary and Robert High
Catherine and James Hynes
Romy and Borden James
Louise ‘90 and David Mann *
Liz and Tripp Meine
Beth and Dick Moore
Kim and Mike Murray
Stephanie Norris ’86 and Colleen Kochanek
Tennille and Chris Pope
Trisha and Scott Price *
Jenny and Will Purvis *
Loulie and Matt Scharf *
Chrissy and Peter Sweyer
Anna ’08 and Kurt ’07 Taylor *
Jill and Steve Watson *
Jessica Whitney *
Mel and David Wilcox
Jasmine and Doug Zucker *
Navy Circle ($1,000-$2,499)
Katie and Christian Anguish
Leslie and Jay Atkinson
Marnie and Richard Bahner
Nancy and Caldwell Bailey
Shana Barclay *
Blenda Kwok and Hans Bean *
John Berkey
Yuana and Russ Berkoben
Navita and Vaneet Bhaskar
Barbara and Andy Bishop
The Blackbaud Giving Fund
Jamie and Mike ‘00 Brown
Jessica Buechler
Jenny and Michael Burnett
Janice Murray and Jesus Cantalapiedra
Brittany Childs and Lee Luckman
Happy and Bill Clark
Laura and Thomas Covington *
Wayne Cowan *
Regina and Chris Cox
Nataliya and Jason DeFrancesco
Holly and DJ Dometrorch
Kathy and Dan Edwards
Andrew Everhart
Shirley and George Ezzell
Shahrzad ‘89 and Tim Gardner
Becky and Paul Griffin
Christy and Rob Hancock
Rebecca and Duane Hixon
Caroline and William Hope *
IQVIA
Velvet and Mike Kleppinger *
Deena and Brandon Korman *
Kateryna and Alexander Kotlyarevska
Juliana and Jeffrey Kotzan *
* Consecutive Giving of 5 Years or More
Caprice Youngblood and Glenn Lea
D’Ann Grady Lettieri ’00
Brandi and Chris ‘96 Mason
Katherine McKee & Sid DuPont
Lara and Robert McNeill
Stephanie Medcalfe
Megan and Elliott ‘03 Miller
Nicole and Elmar Nagele
Rose Marie and Tuney Nunnelee
Dana O’Donovan
Jessica and Chip Oester
Janelle and Stephen Owens
Terri and Scott Powell
Brandy and William Powers
Gina and Drew Reger
Alexa C. Revell *
Page and Scott Rogers
David Roos
Jennifer M. Rose-Wilkins
Bo Rosser and Neil Brookes
Melisa and Gabe Salinas
Amanda Sasser and Craig Pope *
Kimberly and Ted Shipley *
Kym and Jeff Sorbel
Annie Gray Sprunt ’83
Thermo Fisher
Mary and Benjamin Vann
Ashley and Ben Wall *
Paige and Larry Warshaw *
Maria and Mike Watts
Karen and Rick Webb *
Kim and Bryan Weckel *
Williamson Family Foundation
Tazza and Stephan Woditschka
Sheldon Wolitski
Porter and Vance Young *
The Goulding Family has been an integral part of the CFA community for the past six years, making an impact from the very beginning. Danielle, originally from Richmond, Virginia, moved to the area to attend UNC Wilmington after graduating from Collegiate School, a coed, college preparatory independent school in her hometown. She has lived in Wilmington ever since. Her husband, Brett, relocated to Wilmington from Whiteville to pursue a career in forestry after graduating from NC State. The two met in town nearly 20 years ago while working.
“We quickly saw our children excel in the classroom and develop a true love of learning. We immediately felt that our children’s needs were being met on a personal level and that the teachers genuinely cared about their success.”
– Danielle Goulding
When it came time to choose a school for their three children, CFA stood out as the best option in Wilmington for the Goudlings. The combination of intimate class sizes and a wide range of athletics and extracurricular activities reminded Danielle of her education in Virginia. Danielle also felt a strong sense of community at CFA, especially through collaborative learning across divisions. All three
Goulding children began as Little Explorers, and now Ava is in 4th grade, Eliza is in 2nd grade, and Shep is in Kindergarten.
The family has enjoyed their experience at CFA from the beginning. “We quickly saw our children excel in the classroom and develop a true love of learning.” She applauds the Little Explorers program for providing a solid foundation for students. “We immediately felt that our children’s needs were being met on a personal level and that the teachers genuinely cared about their success. We are so glad we enrolled them as soon as we could!” The family returns every year because their kids are happy and thriving.
Danielle’s presence is well-known within the CFA community due to her extensive volunteer work. She currently serves as the lower school liaison for the family partnership, is a member of the development committee, serves on the Parent Ambassador Council, and is part of the homecoming committee. She appreciates the variety of volunteer opportunities the school offers. Her enthusiasm for the CFA community is contagious to all who work with her.
The Gouldings contribute more than just their time; they give to the Annual Fund annually. Danielle says they believe in the tradition of philanthropy and that every donation sends a message of support to both students and faculty. “We give because we believe in CFA. We want it to be the best it can be. We want to ensure that as our children grow, the school grows with them, continuing to meet their needs.” We are grateful to the Gouldings for all they do at the school, inspiring others to follow their lead.
We were delighted that the CFA Community enjoyed a wonderful evening of connection and celebration at our bi-ennual Porch Party, held at the beautiful Surf Club in Wrightsville Beach. It was an evening filled with laughter, good conversation, and a shared sense of camaraderie that makes our community so special.
We were thrilled to see such a fun group in attendance, including current parents, alumni, parents of alumni, faculty, grandparents and more! This gathering highlighted the strength of our community across generations and the lasting relationships that extend beyond the school years.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and made this event such a memorable experience. Your presence made the evening extra special, and we look forward to many more opportunities to come together in the future.
“We were thrilled to see such a fun group in attendance, highlighting the strength of our community across generations and the lasting relationships that extend beyond the school years.”
– Melissa Blackmon
Being a Cape Fear Academy alumni is special. It is a shared experience bursting with treasured traditions, engraved values, and gratitude for an institution that played an inevitably large part in who we are today. To strengthen this community, Paula Sneeden and Lindsay Fowler have teamed up to create CFA’s first Alumni Advisory Council.
In March 2024, about 20 local CFA alumni gathered for the council's inaugural meeting. The evening was filled with storytelling of cherished CFA memories and brainstorming ideas to enhance the sense of connection among CFA’s 2000 alumni.
Teamwork shone brightly this summer when the Alumni Council and CFA’s Advancement Team organized a special alumni event in July. To generate excitement, local alumni-owned businesses such as Blue Surf Cafe, Blue Surf Arboretum, Lala & Elm, H2 Turbo Car Wash, and One Belle Bakery generously donated gift cards for an incredible giveaway. Jonas Pate, an alumni parent and cocreator of the TV show Outer Banks, graciously
agreed to be our guest speaker. Anticipation for this extraordinary event led to an increase in alumni donations.
The event was a great success. Alumni of all ages gathered at Waterman’s Brewing, bonding over their shared CFA experiences, even if it was their first meeting. Pate delivered an exceptional talk, sharing his fascinating journey in the film industry and his connection to our beloved school. By the end of the night, every guest was smiling, and our goal of building stronger camaraderie was achieved.
The Alumni Advisory Council continues to strive to foster a stronger community worldwide. They plan to host more events with diverse activities to appeal to a wide range of interests. We hope our alumni will continue to support this mission by giving back to CFA, a place that has significantly impacted us all. We look forward to what’s to come and encourage interested alumni, near or far, to join us for future meetings!
Olivier J. Van Dierdonck, a CFA graduate from the class of 1982, has an inspiring journey that began in Belgium. He initially attended French and Flemish schools before moving to Wrightsville Beach when his father’s company bought the Timme Textile Plant.
“When I started at CFA, my English skills were terrible,” Olivier recalls. “But the school was accommodating, allowing my sister and me to take English-heavy classes together.”
Despite the language barrier, Olivier thrived, thanks to supportive teachers like Mr. Myers, Mrs. Hooten, and Mrs. Morrissey. Mr. Myers even got him involved in many extracurricular activities, such as being the basketball team manager, videographer, and statistician.
Olivier adapted well to the Hurricane lifestyle, playing varsity tennis and participating in student government. “By some random fluke of high school
politics, I was elected Senior Class President, which garnered me a lot of headaches but a primo parking spot!” For college, he applied to Davidson College, Duke University, and UNC Chapel Hill and was accepted to all three, ultimately choosing Davidson.
“CFA’s rigorous and well-rounded approach prepared me well for college.”
After Davidson, Olivier earned a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Duke. He now lives in Raleigh, working as an executive search consultant at Stanton Chase, specializing in healthcare leadership roles nationwide. His career has taken him to various places, including Nashville for 23 years, but he has now relocated to North Carolina and splits time between Raleigh and Wilmington.
Olivier donates to CFA annually and tries to attend school events. “I am grateful for the education and opportunities CFA provided and am glad to give back.” It is truly remarkable to witness the enduring bond he has maintained with our school over the years. His unwavering commitment and continued involvement serve as an inspiring example for both current students and alumni alike.
Matthew Anlyan '03
Sara Jordan Anlyan '04
Adam Batchler '02
Edie Nelson Brown '81
Jim Brown '79
Michael Brown '00
Elle Burnette '23
Bill Cameron '72 *
Christine Trask Chappell '82
Elizabeth Chadwick Cherry ’06
Ben Currin '08
Suiter Pierce Currin '08
Carryl Tinsley Davis '12
Mary Boney Denison '74
Bailey Schiffel Echols '03
Douglas Echols ' 00
Hilda Cameron Edwards '77 *
William Floyd '15
Lindsay Rayner Fowler '13
Shannon Morris Fox '97
Carr Fullagar '02
Shahrzad Nasseri-Gardner '89 *
Thomas Garner '01
Faison Gibson '96
Roxanna Goudarzi '05
Kimberly Moore Gregg '88
Deans Hackney, III '13
Amanda Paul Holliday '93 *
Mark Hooten '82 *
James Hooten '79
Renee Walker Hope '04
Laura van Rens Howell '04
Audra Wetherill Johnson '88
Robert Jones '87
Eric Julien '93
Jean Graham Keller '95 *
Chloe Kernan '20
Mabel Trask Kitchin '97
Allen Jordan Lee '00
Will Leonard '95
Michelle Sancilio Leonard '96
D'Ann Grady Lettieri '00 *
Koo MacQueen '90
Liz White MacRae '87
Nelson MacRae '77
Louise Woodbury Mann '90 *
Christopher Mason '96
Mark Maynard '05
Peggy and John Meehl ’12
Hank Miller '80
Maggie Andrews Miller '97
Elliott Miller '03
David Nash '89 *
Stephanie Norris ' 86 *
Tee Nunnelee '96 *
Grayson Palmer '12
Howard Penton '83
Matthew Pohlman '93
Emily Brown Poole '08 *
Bradford Sanders '93 *
Turner Schaeffer '04
Annamaria Lookman Schmidt '05
Andrew Schuett '10
Abigail Smith '20
Paula Sneeden '76 *
Annie Gray Sprunt '83
David Sprunt '85 *
Caroline Page Steadman 08
Katharine Efird Sullivan '85 *
Ryal Tayloe '02
Kurt Taylor '07 *
Anna van Rens Taylor '08 *
Michael Teer '89
Lillian Smith Teer '00
Vin Wells '94 *
Steve Wells '95 *
Helen Lambeth Wells '95
Leigh and Jason Adams
Kym and Robby Adams *
Katie and Christian Anguish
Laura and Tom Apollonio
Stef and Chauncey Archer
Anemona and Johny Ardeljan
Anette and Sam Bodoky
Leslie and Jay Atkinson
Nancy and Caldwell Bailey
Amanda and Mike Baker *
Amanda and Todd Bariglio *
Rachel and Adam '02 Batchler
Elizabeth and Stephen Beacham *
Caroline and Buck Beam
Blenda Kwok and Hans Bean *
John Berkey
Yuana and Russ Berkoben
Navita and Vaneet Bhaskar
Barbara and Andy Bishop
Karen Stump and Eric Bishop *
Melissa and Brent Blackmon
Stacy and Greg Borstad
Melissa and Paul Brinkley
Anne and Shawn Broderick *
Jamie and Mike '00 Brown
* Consecutive Giving of 5 Years or More
Brandi and Bill Buchanan
Jessi Buechler *
Alicia and Chris Burkett
Jenny and Michael Burnett
Kelly and Duane Burnette *
Liz Buskirk
Leah and Dillon Bussert
Janice Murray and Jesus Cantalapiedra
Julie and David Capps
Nicole and John Cargill
Ashley and Dusty Carmichael
Elizabeth and Trevor Casey
Margaret Froneberger and Dennis Cattel
Ann and Nathaniel Cavanaugh
Brittany Childs and Lee Luckman
Happy and Bill Clark
Cheryl and Paul Colvin *
Lisa and Michael Connaughton *
Jessica S. Connett and Colston Edgerton
Christine and Robert Cortina
Laura and Thomas Covington *
Regina and Chris Cox
Suiter and Ben Currin
Julie and Raymond Danner
Alexis and Lee Davidson
Jennifer and Bobby Davis
Nataliya and Jason DeFrancesco
Stewart and Peter DiFiore
Holly and DJ Dometrorch
Amy Porter and Bobbie Dunn
Erica Dunton and Matthew Petersen
Carol Anne and Bryan Durham
Douglas '00 and Bailey '03 Echols
Kathy and Dan Edwards
Trisha and Tommy Ellison *
Jane and Mark Emmart
Ashley and Joel Essington
Andrew Everhart
Shirley and George Ezzell
Bethany and Jamison Fee
Stephanie Mann and Chris Fikry *
Jenn and Carr '02 Fullagar
Samantha Gardner *
Shahrzad '89 and Tim Gardner
Julia and Thomas '01 Garner
Jennifer and Israel Garrido
Emily and Huntley Garriott *
Jessica and Jason Gaskill
Daisy DeWeese-Gatt and Jason Gatt *
Deborah Bartholow and Nathan Gergel
Caroline and Gregory Gianoplus
Elizabeth and Paul Gibbs
Bonnie Perchard and Michael Giblin
Faison Gibson '96
Mindy and Danny Gillis
Heather and Josh Glover
Danielle and Brett Goulding *
Emily and Nate Graves
Karrie Grear and Andrew Grisham
Becky and Paul Griffin
Kate and Brian Groat
Susan and Dustin Gross
Michelle and Colin Hackman
Zeb Hadley
Veronica and Eddie Hales
Kelsey and Matt Hall
Eli and Matt Hamel *
Heather and Chris Hammer
Christy and Rob Hancock
Catherine and Colin Hanley
Albany and Sean Harrington
Alisa Harris
Amy and Boyd Harris
Katharyn and John Harvey
Rachel and Mark Hatfield *
Stephanie and Aidan Heaney
Shelley and Scott Hellmuth
Sara and Ash Hepburn
Wendy and Bill Herrett
Rebecca and Duane Hixon
Leslie and Brett Holdsworth
Katie and Ran Holeman
Amanda '93 and Cade Holliday *
Emily and Stan Hollingsworth
Haeok and Douglas Holt
Caroline and William Hope *
Connie and Steve Horan
Mei Gao and Yi Huang
Maya Peltsverger and Dmitry Ivanov *
Lisa and Sunil Iyer
Romy and Borden James
Audra Johnson '88
Rachel and Robert '87 Jones
Nick Jupena
Carrie and David Kane
Tanya and Peter Kane *
Kristen and Rob Kaplan
Jean '95 and Connor Keller *
Brook and Randy Kelley
Mabel '97 and Hal Kitchin
Deena and Brandon Korman *
Kateryna and Alexander Kotlyarevska
Juliana and Jeffrey Kotzan *
Susan and Michael Kraus
Elizabeth and Bob Lallathin
Brooks and Mitch Lamm
Julie and Brannon Lancaster *
Johnna and Chris Lattin
Heather and Mike Lautenbach
Caprice Youngblood and Glenn Lea *
Emily and Alex Lee
Allen '00 and Caleb Lee
Lauren Lee
Michelle '96 and Will '95 Leonard
Lillian ’00 and Michael ’89 Teer
Ellen and BJ Losch
Koo MacQueen '90
Beth Adams and Scott Magrath *
Susan and Jon Mailey
Louise '90 and David Mann *
Anna and Will Mansfield *
Brandi and Chris '96 Mason
Janna and Mark '05 Maynard
Myra and Kevin McCarthy
Allyson and Meade McFarlane
Lara and Robert McNeill
Jessica and Jeremy Middleswarth
Maggie '97 and Hank '80 Miller
Nicole and Shane Miller *
Megan and Elliott '03 Miller
Sara and Corey Mills *
Heather and Billy Mills
Sarah and Mike Morris *
Katherine and Alex Moura
Kim and Mike Murray
Nicole and Elmar Nagele
Sara and Charles Neuwirth
Lydia and Peter Newman
Olga Nobleton and Thomas Lagrange
Ashleigh and Joseph Norris
Stephanie Norris '86 and Colleen Kochanek
Gray and Tee '96 Nunnelee *
Dana O'Donovan *
Jessica and Chip Oester
Holly and John Overton
Janelle and Stephen Owens
Carol and Bobby Palmer *
Liza and Tim Palmer
Kari and Michael Papagikos *
Katy and Worth Parker
Amal and Steven Pasquantonio
Crystal and Harrison Peebles *
Shelby and Matt '93 Pohlman
Elizabeth S. Poisson
Kathryn and Skeet Polk
Tennille and Chris Pope
Yonnie and Bill Pope *
Terri and Scott Powell
Brandy and William Powers
Trisha and Scott Price *
Jenny and Will Purvis *
Katie and Paul Ragan *
Tobi and Patrick Ragon
Alison and Alan Reid
Liz and Brad Restel
Alexa C. Revell *
Beth Handler and Riebe *
Keni and Matthew Rienks *
Sana and Browning Rockwell
Page and Scott Rogers
Laura and Thomas Rollins
David H. Roos
Jennifer M. Rose-Wilkins
Susan Rosser and Neil Brookes
Mary Lyons and Franklin Rouse
Maria and Chris Rupp*
Kri Ruschiensky and Will Guilbault
Prasanna Ambati and Ajay Sadey *
Melisa and Gabe Salinas
Amanda Sasser and Craig Pope*
Jill and Chris Scerri
Sarah and Turner '04 Schaeffer
Becca and Eric Scott *
Gretchen and Timothy Scoutelas
Kimberly and Ted Shipley *
Prosper F. Bangwayo-Skeete and Ryan Skeete
Kalyn and Andrew Snow
Kym and Jeff Sorbel
Courtnie and Steve Spinola
Hans Stelmach
Kate Stelmach
Courtney and Nick Stone
Karen Stump and Eric Bishop
Holly and Morgan Sullivan
Chrissy and Peter Sweyer
Lauren and Billy Symanski
Kristin and Jon Tait *
Laura and Ryal '02 Tayloe
Anna '08 and Kurt '07 Taylor *
Lillian'00 and Michael '89 Teer
Angela and James Tew *
Megan and Miller van Vliet *
Mary and Benjamin Vann
Jill and Juswald Vedovi
Sarah and Grey Vick
Becky and Alex Vonsiatsky
Ashley and Ben Wall *
Jin Fen Chen and Liang Jie Wang
Paige and Larry Warshaw *
Jamie and Randy Waskin
Jill and Steve Watson
Maria and Mike Watts
Kim and Bryan Weckel *
Sapir and Lishay Weis
Rebecca and Rock Wells *
Helen '95 and Steve '95 Wells *
Elizabeth and Vin '94 Wells *
Jessica Whitney *
Carla and Gordon Whitwell *
Mel and David Wilcox
Stacie and James Williams
Heather Wilson and Adam Alphin
Kelli and Brandon Wilson
Lizzy '06 and Brooks Wilson
Megan and Wes Winslett
Tazza and Stephan Woditschka
Nina L. Yokochi-Funkhouser and Stephen
Funkhouser
Natela and John Young
Tiff and Mike Zakszeski
Karl and Heather Zander
Ruth and Maung Zaw
Jasmine and Doug Zucker *
Marnie and Richard Bahner
Amanda and Mike Baker *
Shana Barclay
Anne and Shaw Broderick *
Edie ’81 and Jim ’79 Brown
Beth and Bob Cherry *
Wanda and Ron Copley
Jeannette and Dwight Crim
Jennifer and Jason Dahl *
Ivonne and Greg Ezzell
Bethany and Jamison Fee
Paige and Joe Gaddini
Jennifer and Mason Hawfield
Karen and Jerald Head
Mary and Robert High
Caroline and William Hope *
Angie and Joe Jackson
Andrea and Jim Johnston*
Cheryl and Bill Kanzinger *
Velvet and Mike Kleppinger
Brooks and Mitch Lamm
Julie and Brannon Lancaster *
Lauren Lee
Donald McQueen
Liz ’87 and Nelson ’77 MacRae
Myra and Tim Matt
Allyson and Meade McFarlane
Kim and Chris Meehl
Liz and Tripp Meine
Karin and Tom Mills
Beth and Dick Moore
Jean and Gary Murtagh
Rose Marie and Tuney Nunnelee
Kari and Michael Papagikos
Crystal and Harrison Peebles *
Beth and Howard ’83 Penton
Virginia Pierce
Iris and Ira Poppel *
John Redington
Cathy and Michael Regan
Gina and Drew Reger
Loulie and Matt Scharf
Gretchen and Timothy Scoutelas
Wesie and David ’85 Sprunt
Karen Stump and Eric Bishop
Mrs. Frances Y. Trask
Erik and Sara van Rens
Bo and Jill Webb
Tazza and Stephan Woditschka
Porter and Vance Young
Karen and Gene Blackwelder
Rosemary Bricker
Donald Britton
Gail Broderick
Penny Brooks
Meilia and Gerald Cox
Patty and George Elovsky
Shirley and George Everhart
Traci Fairbairn
Joan and Thomas Fitzpatrick
Bill and Millie Freccia
Donna and Thomas Gardner
Judy and Frank Gibson
Margaret and James Hynes
Steve and Lisa Hysko
Maureen Juneau
Janet Lane-Roberts and Nicolas Lane-Roberts
Macie and Donald Latham
Marie and John Lennon
Donald MacQueen
Tonie and Charles Mann
Linda and Duncan McFarlane
Katherine McKee and Sid DuPont
Thomas McManamy
Kit and Robert Miller
Sara and Corey Mills
Jody and Gregory Mincey
Rose Marie and Tuney Nunnelee
Virginia Pierce
Yonnie and Bill Pope
Cheryl and Gary Schreiber
Susan Tango
Catherine and Randy Tyre
Erik and Sarah van Rens
Billie and George Wall
Karen and Rick Webb
Shannon and Calvin Wells
Sylvia Wilkins
* Consecutive Giving of 5 Years or More
Leigh Adams
Laura Apollonio
Jennifer Avery
Shana Barclay
Melissa Blackmon
Kelly Borton
Laura Bowen *
Julie Capps
Nicole Cargill
Gretchen Carlson *
Jennifer Civelli
Morghan Clark
Lisa Connaughton *
Bryan Connelly
Jeannette Crim
Alison Dean
Ed Ellison
Trisha Ellison
Becky Fancher
Bethany Fee
Jamison Fee
Diane Fowler
Lindsay Fowler
Carr Fullagar
Jessica Gaskill
Nathan Gergel
Elizabeth Gibbs
Megan Green
Matt Hall
Kimberly Halle
John Hargrove
Rachel Hatfield *
LeighAnn Hodges
Ran Holeman
Amanda Holliday *
Shelby Hollingsworth
Kim Hutchins
Angie Jackson
Nick Jupena
Bill Kanzinger
Cheryl Kanzinger
Mark Kelly
Elizabeth Lallathin
Johnna Lattin
Patrick Lombard
Maria Marquez
Linda Maxey
Stephanie Medcalfe
Chris Meehl
Peggy and John Meehl
William Metcalfe
Nicole Miller
Debra Mills
Olga Nobleton
Nelda Nutter *
Bobby Palmer *
Laura Peterson
Katie Ragan
Tobi Ragon
Alison Reid
Carol Renneker
Keni Rienks
Sue Robbins
Lisa Rojek
Mary Lyons Rouse
Becca Scott *
Gretchen Scoutelas
Melissa Slovik *
Paula Sneeden *
Maureen Vanscoy
Karen Weir
Carla Whitwell *
Brady T. Edwards
Audrey and Jerry Lombard
Ani Scuteri *
Sheldon Wolitski
Student Donors
Tyler Beacham ’24
Ethan Burnette ’27
Lane Durham ’24
Eric Dyer ’24
Cooper Herrett ’24
Riley Lallathin ’24
Liza Wells ’24
AbbVie
Clorox Company
Harris Teeter, Inc. Together in
Education
IQVIA
Protocol
Thermo Fisher
Wells Brothers Construction
YourCause LLC
Foundations
American Online Giving Foundation
Balloun Family Foundation
Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation
Dan Cameron Family Foundation
GE Foundation
Williamson Family Foundation
* Consecutive Giving of 5 Years or More
In Cape Fear Academy’s recent history, alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends have established named endowment funds to provide lasting support for financial aid, faculty development, and academics. It is Cape Fear Academy Board of Trustees’ policy that unrestricted, named endowment funds may be established with a gift of $25,000 or more, and restricted, named endowment funds may be established with a gift of $100,000 or more.
Our school’s endowment portfolio is managed by - Wealth Management under the direction of our Finance and Investment Committees of the Board of Trustees.
Names listed under specific funds indicate a donation to that fund in the 2022-2023 fiscal year.
Established in the spring of 2020 by the parents of the Class of 2020 to honor this amazing group of students and ensure the legacy of Cape Fear Academy’s 50th graduating class.
Established in the spring of 2021 by the parents of the Class of 2021 to honor this amazing group of students and ensure the legacy of Cape Fear Academy’s 51st graduating class.
Established in the spring of 2022 by the parents of the Class of 2022 to honor this amazing group of students and ensure the legacy of Cape Fear Academy’s 52nd graduating class.
Established in the spring of 2023 by the parents of the Class of 2023 to honor this amazing group of students and ensure the legacy of Cape Fear Academy’s 53rd graduating class.
This fund was established in 2023 by an anonymous donor. Expenditures from the fund will be used to provide financial aid to families from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, with an emphasis on enrolling and supporting students of color.
Anonymous Donor
Established in the fall of 2024 by the parents of the Class of 2024 to honor this amazing group of students and ensure the legacy of Cape Fear Academy’s 54th graduating class.
Leigh and Jason Adams
Kym and Robby Adams
Alexis and Lee Davidson
Amanda and Mike Baker
Amanda and Todd Bariglio
Elizabeth and Stephen Beacham
Tyler Beacham
Barbara and Andy Bishop
Stacy and Greg Borstad
Melissa and Paul Brinkley
Janice Murray and Jesus Cantalapiedra
Ann and Nathaniel Cavanaugh
Christine and Robert Cortina
Meilia and Gerald Cox
Carol Anne and Bryan Durham
Lane Durham
Eric Dyer
Jane and Mark Emmart
Ivonne and Greg Ezzell
Bonnie Perchard and Michael Giblin
Eli and Matt Hamel
Catherine and Colin Hanley
Katharyn and John Harvey
Rachel and Mark Hatfield
Wendy and Bill Herrett
Cooper Herrett
Rebecca and Duane Hixon
Tanya and Peter Kane
Kateryna Kotlyarevska and Alexander Kotlarevsky
Riley Lallathin
Heather and Mike Lautenbach
Ellen and BJ Losch
Louise and David Mann
Karin and Tom Mills
Jessica and Chip Oester
Janelle and Stephen Owens
Kari and Michael Papagikos
Katy and Worth Parker
Amal and Steven Pasquantonio
Crystal and Harrison Peebles
Katie and Paul Ragan
Page and Scott Rogers
Melisa and Gabe Salinas
Courtnie and Steve Spinola
Frances Trask
Jamie and Randy Waskin
Kim and Bryan Weckel
Liza Wells
Megan and Wes Winslett
Tazza and Stephan Woditschka
Natela and John Young
Jasmine and Doug Zucker
CFA Diversity Financial Aid Endowment Fund
This fund was established in 2020 by Emily and Huntley Garriott. Expenditures from the fund will be used to provide financial aid to students that will help build and maintain a more racially-diverse student body.
Anna ’08 and Kurt ’07 Taylor
Carol and Todd Atwood
Tanya and Peter Kane*
Stephanie Mann & Chris Fikry
Emily and Huntley Garriott
CFA Financial Aid Endowment Fund
This fund was established in 2021 by Emily Hall Poole ’08 and J. Gregory Poole. Expenditures from the fund will be used to provide need-based financial aid for students who need tuition reduction based on the family’s financial need.
Emily ’08 and Greg Poole
Dott Hooten Endowment Fund
This fund was established in 1986 by the Hooten family in honor of Dott Hooten. Expenditures from this fund provide an award to a graduating senior who intends to major in science and has a strong academic record in this subject during their time in Upper School.
Beth and James ’79 Hooten
Denise and Mark ’82 Hooten
E.E. Ford Professional Development Fund
This fund was established in 2010 by the E.E. Ford Foundation to support professional development for faculty in all positions and divisions.
General CFA Endowment
Bruce Barclay Cameron Foundation
Dan Cameron Family Foundation
Jennifer and Jason Dahl*
Matthew 25 Scholarship Fund
This fund was established in 2007 by the Dooley and McLean families for the purpose of providing need-based financial aid for students.
Barbara Proctor Scholarship Fund
This fund was established in 2016 in memory of Barbara Procter, a beloved CFA teacher for 34 years, by her friends and family. Expenditures from this fund provide a monetary award to a student with a strong interest in writing.
Graham Proctor
English, Fine Arts and History Fund
This fund was established in 2020 by Julie and Jim Balloun in honor of Mack ’20 and Raney ’22 Webb. Expenditures from this find will be used to enhance the learning experience in English, Fine Arts, and History
Julie and Jim Balloun*
Andrea and Jim Johnston
Libby White Fund
This fund was established in 2014 to support Lower School faculty professional development.
Leslie and Jay Atkinson
Carol and Todd Atwood
Bruce Barclay Cameron Foundation
Jennifer and Jason Dahl
Emily ’08 and Greg Poole
Denise and Dan Smith
Anne and Bill Squire
Ava and Raiford Trask ’79
CFA mourns the passing of Elizabeth Dunn on July 8, 2024. She attended CFA for her high school years. She was a member of the French Club and School Spirit Club and kept her role with CFA school spirit while not missing one of her brother’s soccer games for CFA!
Mark Rhodes participated in a two-month trapeze workshop at Long Island's Eisenhower Park last summer. This workshop helps train participants in this daring tradition with the idea of exploring and perfecting the beauty and poetry of this thrilling art form.
CFA mourns the passing of Class of 1991 member Jerry Wilkins on March 21, 2024. Jerry attended CFA for 10 years. He was the President of the Student Government Association, a member of the National Honor Society, the Judiciary Council, and on the varsity soccer and basketball teams. Jerry became a Legacy Dad in 2021 when his oldest daughter, Callie, enrolled in the Little Explorers class at CFA and again in 2023 when Abby enrolled in the Little Explorers.
Alice Kassens has been named the first Dean of the School of Business, Economics, and Analytics at Roanoke College.
T Harris is excited to announce the opening of the new Harris Marine & Saltwater Outfitters - A new Marine Supply and Lifestyle Store in Morehead, NC, in June 2024.
Paula Sneeden ’76 and T Harris ’00
Chantal Desloges Hayes’s business, Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness, was recognized in Inc 5000 magazine and ranked #7 of the fastest-growing companies in the Mid-Atlantic region, and #1 in NC state for 2024! Banyan has opened an office in Wilmington and Chantal is excited to be back in Wilmington!
Andi Matt VanTrigt was named to 2024 North Carolina Business Legal Elite. Andi is a Partner/Attorney at Murchison, Taylor & Gibson, PLLC. Andi and her husband and fellow alumni from the class of 2005, Will VanTrigt , also welcomed a second baby girl into their family.
Amanda Charlap Beard and husband Robby announce the birth of a son, Wyatt Paul Beard, born February 24, 2024. Micaela Moreland Camp and husband Chris announce the birth of a son, Charles Anderson Camp, born August 1, 2024. After almost 7 years in the media industry as an Anchor, Producer, and News Reporter in Virginia, Morgan Donnelly Griffin has moved back to North Carolina. She is currently the Associate Director of Admissions for the Daytime MBA program at Duke University Fuqua School of Business while pursuing M.A. in Integrated Marketing Communication at the University of North Carolina -
Wilmington. Lindsay Howard and husband announce the birth of a daughter, Zadoe Ann Howard-Hernandez, born on May 27, 2024.
John Boney is the Vice President, Commercial Relationship Manager at HomeTrust Bank in Raleigh NC. Alan Donald and wife Ameron announce the birth of a son, William Penton Donald, born April 30, 2024. Bobby Lubanski and wife Emma announce the birth of a son, Robert Augustus (Gus), born on June 11, 2024.
Abby Riddick received her Masters of Social Work from UNC Chapel Hill. She is a mental health therapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health in Raleigh, NC.
Courtney Kutz Thomas and husband Nathan announce the birth of a daughter, Isla Merle Thomas, born August 30, 2023.
Jordan Croom married Kellam Oden on June 8th, 2024 in Wilmington, NC.
Kav Ellis and wife Julie announce the birth of a son, Archer, born April 9, 2024. Olivia Horrigan Hammons and husband Jared announce the birth of a son, Brooks, born July 10, 2024.
Brooks Hammons
John Squire married Anna Huff on May 18, 2024. Kacey Patella married Rob High, on November 18, 2023, in Wilmington, NC.
Kacey ’12 and Rob ’13 High
Georgia Parker married Mark Brumback on September 8, 2023, in Wilmington, NC.
Brittany Sweyer married Shelton Cochran on September 9, 2023.
Brittany Sweyer Cochran ’13 and Shelton Cochran
Niki Tomaselli married Sam Burgess on October 6, 2023.
Lindsay Rayner married Garrett Fowler on November 11, 2023.
Nancy Lee McLean Alexander and husband John announce the birth of a son, George Weber Alexander, born March 18, 2024.
Charles Ellis married Courtney Tarter on April 27, 2024.
Tala Goudarzi received a MBA from UT Austin.
Tala Goudarzi ’13
Abbey Hale married Duncan Lindsay on April 13, 2024.
Monroe McCullough and husband Eric announce the birth of a daughter, Iris Elizabeth Lord, born January 25, 2024. Emily Pollak married Alex Barrett on May 26, 2024.
Susanna Jenkins graduated from Duke University with a Masters in Environmental Management.
Hollan Wills married John Murphy on May 24, 2024.
Katherine Franck lives and works in Raleigh NC as a real estate and commercial development attorney.
Trey Moore graduated from medical and business school at UNC Chapel Hill. He currently works in Nashville as a Vanderbilt Orthopaedic Surgery Resident.
Trey Moore ’15
Britt Creighton married Christian Ratcliff on May 5, 2024.
Caspian Goudarzi graduated from UPenn with a Masters in Chemical Sciences. He lives in Philadelphia, PA and works for GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) as an Associate Scientist.
Lexi Lampkin works in Beverly Hills, CA, for Dick Clark Productions as a Talent Manager. She has joined of the Television Academy of the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Zach Tomosunas received his MBA in December 2023 in International Business at UNC-Wilmington.
Mollie Carter Perry and husband Chris Perry announce the birth of a daughter, Carter Jane Perry, born June 22, 2024.
Jimmy Neil graduated from UNC Wilmington with a BSBA. Sydney Williams received a Master's of Physiology from NC State University.
Thomas Cooke graduated from Elon University with a BA in Biology.
Patrick Mintz graduated from UNC Wilmington with a Finance degree.
Walker Moore graduated from UNC Chapel Hill with an MS in Accounting. He lives and works outside of Washington, DC on the Audit Staff at Ernst & Young.
Hailie Person graduated from the University of Southern California with a BS in Real Estate Development.
Isley Pulliam received her MS in Human Services from Walden University. Arbin Salihu graduated from UNC Wilmington with a degree in biology.
Jacob Waldrop graduated from DePaul University in December 2023 with a BFA in film studies with a directing concentration. He lives and works in Chicago, IL, on various independent film sets in Chicago and Wilmington, NC.
Maya Arora graduated from Duke University with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy with minors in Philosophy and Environmental Science Policy. She is currently a candidate for a J.D. at Harvard Law School.
Gwenyth Austin graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a degree in Communications and a minor in film.
Caelin Bahner graduated from Elon University with a BS in Computer Science.
Isabel Barrett graduated from the University of San Francisco with a BBA in international business. She will live and work in Charlotte for Bank of America.
Stella Bloom graduated from Elon University with a BFA in Cinema and Television Art.
Emmanuel Bonsu is playing basketball for the University of Saskatchewan.
Abby Cavanaugh graduated from Loyola University Maryland with a BS in Biology.
Ford Chappell graduated with a BS in Finance and a minor in History from Wake Forest University.
Bret Collie graduated from Virginia Tech with a BS in Business in Finance, Accounting and Finance.
Caroline Crumrine graduated Magna Cum Laude from Furman University with a Physics degree.
Miller Dalton graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design with a BFA in Graphic Design.
Margaret Dill graduated from NC State with a BA in Psychology from NC State.
Fin Doster graduated Cum Laude with a BS in Business from UNC Wilmington.
Kiera Draffen graduated from Transylvania University Summa Cum Laude on a Biochemistry track with Honors in Chemistry and Physics and a minor in Spanish. She attends the University of Kentucky School of Medicine in Lexington, KY.
Amanda Edwards graduated from Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences with a BS in Environment and Sustainability.
Charlotte Gabbard graduated from Terry College of Business Management at the University of Georgia with a BSBA.
Molly Gilbert graduated from Arizona State University with a BA in Economics in 2023. She received a MA in Marketing from UNC Wilmington in 2024.
Andrew Gramley graduated from Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media at DePaul University.
Anne Haslam graduated from UNC Charlotte with a BS in Accounting and Finance.
Grace Haslam received an AA from Cape Fear Community College. Upon graduating she transferred to Colorado State University, where she will receive a BS in Computer Science.
Aiden Keller graduated from UNC Chapel Hill with a BA in Medical Anthropology and BS in Biology.
Chloe Kernan graduated from Washington University in St. Louis in December 2023 with a BS in Biology. While at Wash U she was accepted into the NF Scholars Program in the Gutmann Laboratory at the WashU School of Medicine. As a part of the program, she contributed to the establishment of a new mouse model for studying pediatric tumors.
Parker King graduated from UNC Chapel Hill’s School of Education with a degree in Human Development and Family Science.
Lacey Kleppinger graduated from Campbell University with a biochemistry/pre-med degree. She will begin Medical School at Campbell upon graduation.
Spencer Lampkin graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a BS in Finance.
Lily Lancaster received a BA in Computer Science. She is currently enrolled at Northeastern University working towards a MS in Cybersecurity.
Pearce Lewis received a degree in Public Policy from UNC Chapel Hill.
Laura Kate Lindstrom graduated from North Carolina State University's Poole College of Management, with a BSBA, specializing in Human Resources and a minor in Psychology. She lives and works in Raleigh as an Analyst for the Professional Services Automation team at Korn Ferry.
George McGarry graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in Learning Science and Environmental Policy.
Lauren McWhinnie received a BSN in Nursing from UNC Greensboro.
Alexis Mearns graduated from NC State with a BS in Environmental Sciences.
Casey Medlin graduated from UNC Chapel Hill with a BA in Media and Journalism. During her senior year she began an internship at Global Public Relations Agency FleishmanHillard. She will be transitioning to a full-time role in the Raleigh offic as an Assistant Account Executive.
Katie Meehl graduated from Duke University with a BS in Biology. While at Duke she was an Emergency Medical Technician with Duke University EMS for three years. She is currently at Yale University with the CORE Research Team in the Stroke and Neurological Critical Care Group.
Ivan Misic graduated with a BS in Quanatative Economics in Dec of 2023 from Bentley College and will graduate again with a MS in Business Analytics in May of 2025.
Michael Paul Moulton graduated cum laude from Davidson College with a Bachelor of Science in Biology.
David Novak graduated from UNC Wilmington with a Computer Science degree.
Jacob Porter graduated in the Fall with a Civil Engineering degree from Clemson University.
Harley Preik graduated from NC State with a BS in Computer Science.
Si (Anna) Qiu graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, majoring in Economics and Data Science. She plans to do consulting.
Ethan Sikka graduated from Wake Forest University with a BA degree.
Abigail Smith graduated from Chapman University with a BA in Psychology. She is pursuing a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education at Teachers College at Columbia University.
Connor Smith graduated cum laude from Davidson College with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Tyler Smith graduated as a member of Phi Beta Kappa, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Peace, War, & Defense with the highest distinction.
Harrison Spicuzza graduated from Virginia Tech with a BS in Building Construction and construction Management.
Tess Tarses graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design with a BFA in Production Design.
Ramsay Trask graduated from Washington and Lee University with a BS degree in American Government and Politics.
Taylor Vernon graduated from ECU in December with a BSN in Nursing.
Summer Xia graduated from UCLA with a degree in Economics and Communications. She lives and works in Los Angeles, CA.
Vance Young graduated from UNC Chapel Hill with a degree in Business and a minor in Politics, Philosophy, and Education. He lives and works in Charlotte, NC, for Eastdil Secured As a Real Estate Investment Banking Analyst.
Jack Yu graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in Computer Science.
