Casady Magazine 2023 by Casady School

2023-24 Magazine • 2022-23 Annual Report

CASADY SCHOOL 9500 N Pennsylvania Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73120

405.749.3100 | www.casady.org 1

Casady School is a PreK-12, independent, college preparatory Episcopal day school committed to deeper-level learning. Casady School welcomes a student body that reflects the diversity of the world around us and therefore does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, nationality, or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletics, and other school-administered programs generally accorded or made available to students at the School.

Our Mission Casady School develops excellence, confidence, and integrity in students and prepares them with the skills and knowledge that serve as the foundation for success.

Our Beliefs

Nathan L. Sheldon Head of School

We believe an exceptional education should cultivate those habits of mind and character that enable individuals to flourish at each stage of life. Casady School’s proven college-preparatory curriculum focuses on the full development of each student, in mind, body, and spirit. We believe the mind should be nourished and developed; therefore, our academic program provides our students the challenges and opportunities necessary to develop critical and creative thinking skills, the ability to plan, evaluate and implement actions, and most importantly, the support to nurture their passions. We believe competitive athletics and physical education are central to the development of leadership and teamwork as well as self-confidence and respect for others. Our students are participants rather than simply spectators. Casady provides healthy and competitive opportunities that are critical to developing an appreciation for wellness and fitness in each student. We believe strong spiritual and moral values provide an essential foundation for one’s life; therefore, the School provides instruction in the basic tenets of the Christian faith as expressed in the Episcopal tradition. Central to the School are daily Chapel services and instruction in theology and ethics. Casady embraces individuals regardless of belief and values an understanding of all faiths. As such, we help our students succeed by challenging and supporting them in every aspect of their educational experience. The result is that our students are given every opportunity to realize their potential and use it to make a difference in their community.

David W. Gorham

Associate Head of School

Jason L. Scheer, Ed.D.

Associate Head of School

Jeff Bingham

Chief Financial Officer

Jim Bonfiglio

Director of Operations

Betty Jane Garrett ’86 Director of Institutional Advancement

Board of Trustees 2023-2024

The governing board, Casady School’s Board of Trustees, is comprised of distinguished alumni, caring parents, and key business leaders. These individuals are selected because of their passion for education, the well-being of our students, and the overall best interest of our School. At Casady School, we pride ourselves on the strong leadership found throughout our community.

Officers Chair: John D. Hart Treasurer: Justin W. Cope Secretary: Eric S. Fisher Sr. ’84 Head of School: Nathan L. Sheldon

Board Members Mark Beffort John Covington '79 David Edwards Victoria W. English E. Carey Joullian IV '78 Gay Kirby Kristian Kos R. Murali Krishna, M.D. Jenee Naifeh Lister ’82 Justin Naifeh '92 Denise Parsons Alice Sias Pippin '80 Marisa Records The Rt. Rev. Poulson Reed, Ex-Officio Sally Nichols Starling '93 C. Miles Tolbert '82 2

Accreditations and Memberships: Casady School is accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) and the Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools (SAES) and belongs to the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES), the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), American Montessori Society (AMS), and the Association of College Counselors in Independent Schools (ACCIS). Casady School athletically competes in the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA), Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC), and the Catholic Grade School Athletic Association (CGSAA). The School is a member of the Malone Schools Online Network (MSON) through the Malone Family Foundation and the Independent School Data Exchange (INDEX).

Table of

Contents Features 8 Computer Science 10 Durable Learning by Design 12 Butterfly Garden 14 Alumni Awards 16 Athletic Hall of Fame

DURABLE LEARNING BY DESIGN Page 10 By Director of Curriculum and Instruction Kendall White

22 Class of 2023

BUTTERFLY GARDEN Page 12

24 75 Anniversary Celebrations th

Q&A with Casady Parent Jessie Provience

34 Graduation Speakers 38 Campaign for Casady School

Annual Report 46 Summary of Annual Operations 47 Annual Fund Sponsors 48 Annual Fund Donor Lists 80 Giving Opportunities 88 Endowments

COMPUTER SCIENCE

75TH ANNIVERSARY

By Computer Science Department Chair Robert Huber and Computer Science Faculty Dr. Chris Dearner

Casady School celebrated its 75th Anniversary with many events and a Gala in 2022-23.

Page 8

Page 24

A letter from the HEAD OF SCHOOL

Nathan L. Sheldon As I reflect on the past 75 years of positioning our School as the premiere Independent School in Oklahoma, I think about the next 75 years and what enhancements and programmatic changes we will once again take as we continue to develop excellence, confidence, and integrity in our students so that they may build the skills and knowledge that serve as the foundation for their success. Our position as market leader is no accident; it is the result of years of investments made by countless faculty, staff, and administrators.

My prayer is that we all spend less time worried about what’s next in life and accept that God has positioned us exactly where He intends us to be. In March of 1952, Casady was only in its fifth year when five schools, St. Stephen’s, St. John’s, Kinkaid, St. Mark’s, and Lutheran Schools of Houston, agreed to loosely organize an athletic association. Under the leadership and vision of Casady’s Headmaster, Shaun Kelly, we became the sixth member of what was originally called the Association of Texas Preparatory Schools (ATPS). In 1958, bylaws were adopted, the ATPS name was changed to the Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC), and our very own Coach Hoot Gibson was elected Vice President and later served as President of the SPC. Then in 1966, Casady Headmaster Dr. Robert B. Woolsey presented final documents that allowed members of the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) to join the SPC in the sports of their choice. With no interruption, and for more than 70 years, Casady School has relished in the camaraderie we share with these “like-minded” schools. In 1 Samuel 17:40, the scriptures recount how “David picked up five smooth stones from a stream and put them into his shepherd’s bag. Then, armed only with his shepherd’s staff and sling, started across the valley to fight the Philistine.” Naturally, we all immediately consider how courageous David was to answer the call. However, buried in this beautiful story is David’s humility and authority within each position he was given, from Shepherd boy to King, that allowed him to be successful. 4

After completing our first full season outside the SPC, an association we've been part of since 1953, I take a moment to consider our students' experiences in both the SPC and the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA). While our Field Hockey and Boys' Volleyball programs appreciated the challenging competition in the SPC, our other sports teams are flourishing as we establish meaningful connections with schools within our state. Regardless of the association we participate in, our Cyclones will always bring a spirit of intense and fair competition. By all accounts, school spirit is the highest I have seen in my 20-plus years at Casady. I have enjoyed seeing our students support each other more now that the competitions are closer in distance. While our Girls’ Softball and Boys’ Volleyball fell short of their goal, they were competitive and finished well. Our Girls’ Volleyball won the regional tournament and advanced to compete with the top eight schools in the State Championship. Cyclone Cross Country also competed at the state level and ran against hundreds of schools, with girls finishing third in state and boys bringing home top honors as State Champions. Football finished the season 8-2, and next year will join in the OSSAA for championship opportunities. Field Hockey took second in the SPC in a very close match against Trinity Valley School in Ft. Worth. At times throughout my tenure as Head of School, I have wondered why I was chosen to lead this great School. I realize today, that God has put me in this position to continue the good work begun by previous leaders, and I simply need to be faithful to His calling. My prayer is that we all spend less time worried about what’s next in life and accept that God has positioned us exactly where He intends us to be.

Let’s embrace this position and do good work! Faithfully,

A letter from the BOARD OF TRUSTEES CHAIR

John D. Hart Great independent schools are guided by the vision of their founders. This is done with traditions established through history, progression of programs, initiatives supporting educational growth, and evolution to meet the expectations, demands, and needs of their internal and surrounding communities, all while staying true to the mission. Those who walk on Casady's campus and through our doors know this instantly. Last year, we celebrated Casady School’s 75th Anniversary that commemorated our foundation, history, traditions, mission, and vision. This year, we continue to build on that vision as we look forward to the next 75 years. Casady School opened the 202324 academic year with record enrollment driven by accelerated interest in our programs. Casady serves a unique and distinct role in Oklahoma City as one of the finest educational opportunities in the state. Our value proposition is embraced by our families, patrons, alumni, and friends. Earlier this fall, we dedicated the Loeffler Primary Division Building after a renovation and expansion that supports strategic enrollment growth. The Loeffler Building is a cornerstone of Casady’s comprehensive capital campaign, reflecting careful strategic planning over several years by the School’s leadership to meet the growing needs of our Casady Community and the greater Oklahoma City area. Primary Division is essentially the front door to our School, both figuratively and literally. The orientation of the Loeffler Building’s front door is symbolically representative of where many of our students enter campus and the path they pursue around the lake in their educational journey through our divisions. Casady’s benefactors enthusiastically supported this capital project as well as the entirety of our on-going comprehensive campaign that champions our faculty, enhances our facilities, grows our endowment, and strengthens our Annual Fund. We have three additional capital projects underway that will serve as pillars for two of the School’s major initiatives – computer science curriculum development and athletic priorities. The Computer Science Wing of the Hightower Building, the Mathis Family Fitness and Performance Center, and the Field Hockey facility

I look forward to Casady’s vibrant future and more tremendous accomplishments that will lead to great things for this School.

featuring Edwards Field and the Payne Family Stadium are due to open in the near future. Beginning our 76th year, Casady is well positioned for the future. Several years ago, our Board of Trustees embarked on a strategic planning exercise that defined the trajectory of our journey to envision and design master planning for the future of our School. This spring, the Board of Trustees will embark on an updated strategic planning exercise. This exercise will be multifactored incorporating the needs of our community and the opportunities for the School in advancing our educational offerings in a student-focused approach true to our guiding mission. I look forward to Casady’s vibrant future and more tremendous accomplishments that will lead to great things for this School. As always, thank you for your continued support for Casady.

Sincerely,

By the Right Reverend Poulson Reed BISHOP OF THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF OKLAHOMA

The School of the Future

A school of the future that values the past. A school with deep roots and tall branches. That's Casady.

What comes to mind when you hear the phrase “The School of the Future”? Do you think about schools in science fiction, perhaps the Jetsons or Starfleet Academy? Does this phrase excite you, make you nervous, or a little bit of both? Coming off the marvelous and varied 75th anniversary celebrations and their focus on the past, it is natural now to turn our attention to Casady’s future. Signs of a bright future are all around, most obviously in the construction taking place in several places on campus. The future is becoming reality before our eyes. To me, in any healthy institution (be it church, school, or anything else), there is a balance of stability and change. Ideally, we want to preserve those things that are core to who we are and our mission, while being flexible with things that are not. In the Church, for example, the Gospel message of Jesus is unchanging, but how that message is shared and with what tools changes. As long as Casady keeps at its heart those things that are essential, especially our values and cherished traditions, there is plenty of room for innovation in those things that help us better live out Casady’s mission in the years to come. To me, as bishop, trustee, and parent, I think Casady gets this balance of stability and change about right. I am excited that Casady is looking forward, exploring the most effective ways to teach and nurture young people with the best curricula, pedagogy, and learning environments. And, at the same time, I appreciate that Casady is a community deeply rooted in our 75-year tradition. A school of the future that values the past. A school with deep roots and tall branches. That's Casady.

Bishop Poulson Reed

Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma

Computer Science at Casady School

By Computer Science Department Chair Robert Huber and Computer Science Faculty Dr. Chris Dearner Casady School is dedicated to developing excellence, confidence, and integrity in students, preparing them with the skills and knowledge that serve as the foundation for success. As the world continues to evolve and progress, the requirements for building that foundation also change. In order to provide students with an education that will endure the changing nature of school, work, and technology, Casady’s Computer Science Department is committed to developing problem solving and computational thinking skills through modern, professional-level technologies. These skills bestow students with a solid foundation of knowledge, the confidence to build great products, and the integrity to use their abilities for the betterment of their communities. Core to this approach to instruction is the belief that students learn best by doing. Having fixed knowledge is important, but being able to apply that knowledge in a wide variety of situations is critical. This philosophy structures the department’s approach to classroom instruction and assessment, allowing students the freedom to develop their own interests and build their own projects. In introductory courses, students might embark on relatively simple projects like creating text-based games. As they progress to more advanced classes, they tackle complex issues on Casady’s campus, developing full-scale, production-level applications. Regardless of the project's complexity, students engage in iterative design and problem-solving throughout the building process. Empowering students to define their own projects instills in them a sense of ownership and intrinsic motivation, 8

providing an authentic platform to showcase their learning. These skills transcend the realm of computer science; they are valuable in any field and for most professional pursuits. The department’s big-picture goal is to make good on the promise of technology, writ large: computers and Computer Science are one of the most powerful tools in the twenty-first century for transforming not only local environments but the face of the country or the world. Casady aims to help students see technology as an empowering force, and to help them think through their own relationship to it. Through this approach, students are prepared for the challenges they'll encounter at the college level and beyond, ensuring they are well-equipped for their educational journey and future careers.

Variety of Offering and Opportunities Computer science at Casady School encompasses a rich tapestry of offerings, catering to diverse interests and passions. At the foundational level, students are presented with an array of courses, including robotics, game development, website development, Python programming, and digital art. Where possible, students are introduced to professional or industrystandard tools early: game development classes use C# and Unity, web development classes use HTML, CSS, and Javascript, and digital art classes use the Arduino ecosystem. While all these courses adhere to essential standards and challenge students to push their limits when approaching complicated material, they grant students the liberty to select the areas that resonate most with their curiosity and creativity. As students progress beyond the introductory stage, offerings expand to encompass even more exciting opportunities, such as physical computing and machine learning. During machine learning classes, students are taught how to train their own neural networks, work with advanced development tools like Jupyter notebooks, and understand the ethical and

societal implications of Artificial Intelligence. In physical computing classes, students learn how to use CAD/CAM software to make complex, multipart physical components and combine these with student-programmed IoT devices based on Arduinos or Raspberry Pis. Students driven by individual exploration are encouraged to undertake independent studies, demonstrating their ingenuity by crafting custom apps. Past projects have been created to aid younger students in reading practice or facilitate immediate feedback to teachers on their lessons. We even have a student currently developing their own programming language. This diverse array of choices ensures that every student can delve into their passions and express themselves within the computer science curriculum.

conservation. Another student's creation was an app tailored to assist users in identifying plants that support migratory species, showcasing the power of technology to address environmental concerns. Furthermore, students have demonstrated exceptional foundational knowledge, often surpassing the level typically expected of college freshmen. The department’s commitment to computer science education not only garners recognition and awards, but also empowers students to apply their knowledge creatively and make a meaningful difference in various domains. Their exemplary achievements and profound understanding of the subject reflect the quality and effectiveness of the computer science program at Casady School.

Some of the most inspiring success stories feature individuals who initially may not have identified as computer science students, but soon discovered a passion for the subject. For instance, a talented cellist and artist created a stunning website to showcase their work, and a devoted video game enthusiast realized that crafting games can be equally as exhilarating as playing them. Beyond immediate applications, the fundamental standards taught are technology-agnostic, equipping students with indispensable problem-solving abilities that transcend the confines of the computer science program. They learn to define problems, design innovative solutions, iterate upon those solutions, and navigate challenges—skills that are universally valuable, regardless of their future pursuits. It is impossible to say what technology will be used in ten, twenty, or thirty years; what is certain, however, is that computational thinking and general critical thinking skills will be as necessary then as they are today. While the department teaches using specific tools, their goal is to produce technologists who can pick up a new programming language as easily as they can use an existing one to solve a problem.

Student Success Stories Casady Computer Science Department’s approach to project-based, real-world learning has enabled students to achieve remarkable success, underscoring the depth of talent and innovation within the Casady Community. For example, a Casady student has won the Congressional App Challenge for the 5th district each year a Casady student has entered. Beyond competitions, students have harnessed their computer science skills to make a meaningful impact through their capstone projects. For instance, one student developed a captivating website featuring online games designed to educate users about water

An Open Invitation The Computer Science Department’s goal is to foster an environment that challenges students to do their best work and understand technology beyond the surface level. An integral part of that work is making sure the School maintains an environment that is open to everyone - students, teachers, administrators, and the larger Casady Community. As such, we would like to offer an open invitation to those members of our community who may not have had the chance to see our successes in person. If you’re on campus, stop by to see what exciting new projects our students are working on! 9

Durable Learning by Design By Director of Curriculum and Instruction Kendall White

Homecoming I began my teaching career at Casady, spending six wonderful years here before moving out of state. I recently returned, this time in a leadership role, and while in many ways the School is very much the same place I remember so fondly, there have also been some surprises. Casady has grown, both in size and in its programs. One of my favorite surprises was an unexpected reunion on the first day of the Teacher Induction Program, a thorough, welcoming introduction to all things Casady for our new faculty and staff. I made my way to Crabtree Library, found my seat, and noticed the placard on the table next to mine. It read, “Sam Wert, Middle Division Latin.” I couldn’t have been more delighted. When I first met Sam, he was a seventh grade Latin student, and the title under his name was my own. At the time, it never would have occurred to me that one of my students would be teaching the class one day, but I wouldn’t have been surprised if you had told me it would be Sam: he was an exceptionally capable Middle Division student, and he excelled in Latin. While I was still processing the name and title in front of me, sure enough, a fully grown Mr. Wert walked in. He was older and taller than I remembered, but very much the same person. Sam wasn’t the only Casady alum in the room: there are a handful of former students who are now my colleagues. I have been a teacher and/or principal to hundreds of students, which means I have been doing this work long enough to run into former students somewhat regularly. It’s nice to be recognized on the street, in an airport, or 10

at dinner by people who are happy to see you, and it is funny how often those I knew as middle school kids apologize or assure me they became much better students with age. I’m always able to reassure them I enjoyed working with them: they were never as difficult as they remember. These surprise reunions have also played an important role for me over the years: they have given me perspective. Reconnecting with teachers, doctors, graduate students, and professionals you first met as goofy, braces-clad kids is a powerful reminder that we are preparing students not only for the next test or the next class, but ultimately for their lives beyond our campus. Our program spans 15 years, from prekindergarten to senior year. We have 15 years to develop the skills, understanding, and habits they will need to thrive as adults. At Casady, we know that we have a heavy responsibility and exciting opportunity to ensure this 15-year experience is intentionally designed with our students’ future success in mind.

Committed Collaborators Another surprise as I get to know Casady again has been the time and resources the School has put behind its effort to foster teacher collaboration and curriculum alignment. While there is still work to do, we stand out among our peers in our commitment and momentum, and we have grown significantly in comparison to the Casady I knew before. Schools like ours are known as “independent” schools, and that independence is a strength. We are free to make decisions guided by our mission and solely in the best interest of our students, and our teachers are accorded the respect and autonomy they deserve as professionals. That said, in some schools, that independent streak can become a liability. We know that the biggest ideas and most important skills our students learn are developed over many years by a team of teachers, not in a single year or in a single

classroom. For our students to thrive in a rapidly changing world after graduation, we need to operate with a shared commitment to our long-term goals and with a shared approach to long-term skill development. We have to pair our commitment to independence with a commitment to collaboration. Casady School has dedicated significant time and resources to the ongoing project of aligning and improving our curriculum because we know it is what is best for our students. Our teachers strive to ensure their students receive the best possible education. While this is vitally important work that directly impacts students in significant, measurable ways, it isn’t work that comes with applause, photo ops, or public recognition. It is work that happens behind the scenes, during meetings full of docs and spreadsheets. In every division and in every department, our teachers are collaborating to build and maintain a cohesive curriculum. Our teachers continue to make use of outside resources and expertise. Our Primary and Lower Division faculty recently completed additional training in the science of reading. Reading has been a hot topic in the world of education, and our understanding of how children learn to read during early childhood and elementary grades has grown in recent years. Our teachers work hard to ensure Casady’s early literacy program is cohesive and informed by the latest research and best practices. Lower Division Math Teachers trained with an instructional coach as they implement a new math curriculum. Our Science Department is thoughtfully aligning our curriculum using the Next Generation Science Standards, a nationally recognized set of educational standards that outline what students should know and be able to do to ensure they are prepared for college and for careers in the sciences.

Our faculty also learn from each other. The English and Social Studies Departments are working to share their practices and improve alignment in the teaching of writing and research skills, from prekindergarten through 12th grade. Our PE program maps objectives and assesses student progress with care and diligence that could serve as inspiration for any academic department. I recently joined the full Math Department on a trip to Primary Division to learn about the approach and aims of our Primary math program. The department will meet with each division over the course of the year, allowing us to build a more cohesive department and to thoughtfully tend to transitions between divisions. Casady’s English Department will be completing a similar exercise over the course of the year.

Prepared for the Future Not every Latin student will master the language and become a Latin teacher like Mr. Wert. Only a few of our English students will become English majors. While we hope our athletes, artists, and performers will continue these pursuits into adulthood, only a few will make a career of them. However, we know the “durable” knowledge and skills they develop over the years they spend with us are the ones that last beyond graduation, and the faculty is working hard to ensure our students are prepared for success and, in the words of our Portrait of a Graduate, for lives of balance, purpose, and joy. 11

Casady Butterfly Garden Rock House

Casady School's Butterfly Garden holds a special significance on campus. It is located on the front lawn of Woolsey House, the former headmaster's residence, near the south end of the lake. An original building of the property, there is now a dedicated area generously funded by the Class of 1969. The Butterfly Garden not only adorns our campus but also enriches our hearts and minds, standing as a testament to the vision and kindness of its benefactors.

Q&A

with Casady Parent Jessie Provience

How did you first get involved in Casady’s Butterfly Garden? Did you have prior experience working with butterflies or plants? No, no experience. When my family moved to Oklahoma nine years ago, I discovered the migration of monarch butterflies passing through the state every spring and fall on their journey from Canada to Mexico. This sparked my interest in learning about the plants necessary for their successful migration, leading me to decide to create a stopping point for monarch butterflies in my own garden. What does a butterfly waystation do? The generous donation of our beautiful butterfly waystation was made by the Class of 1969. Grounds Supervisor Mark Coate, his team, and I continuously add plants that serve as nourishment for butterflies throughout their entire metamorphosis process. Interestingly, monarch butterflies exclusively lay their eggs on milkweed plants, so it is crucial for us to provide an abundant supply of milkweed to support the start of their metamorphosis. Once the eggs hatch, the 12

caterpillars solely feed on milkweed leaves before forming a chrysalis and eventually emerging as stunning monarch butterflies. While our primary focus is on the monarch butterfly, our butterfly garden also attracts a diverse range of other butterfly species, including swallowtails, fritillaries, skippers, painted ladies, and even bees, who stop by for nectar.

Tell me about the types of plants butterflies, and you, like. My current passion lies in prioritizing native Oklahoma plants, which not only thrive and return year after year but also contribute to the well-being of our environment. Some examples of these plants include milkweed, coneflower, Oklahoma zinnias, blazing stars, and Prairie verbena. How do you want the Casady Community to view, or interact with, the garden? I hope that the Casady Community views the garden as a place of beauty and tranquility. I encourage everyone to take a moment during their walks around the Lake to visit the enchanting butterfly garden. It is most vibrant and active from April until the end of October. Find a serene bench, sit back, and witness the graceful dance of butterflies swirling around you. Let it serve as a reminder that we are all part of a continuous process of growth and transformation, evolving into something truly remarkable.

It brings me immense joy to witness the positive impact it has on the environment and the community.

Why is the Casady Butterfly Garden important? The Casady Butterfly Garden holds a unique significance on campus, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the captivating process of metamorphosis firsthand. I also see similarities between the lives of monarchs and the students here on campus; both undergo their own transformations, evolving into remarkable individuals embarking on their own extraordinary journeys in life. Your children sometimes help you in the garden. How do they get involved? My husband and I have three children: a fifth grader, Rowan, a second grader, Beatrice, and Alistair, in Pre-K. Every year, I extend an opportunity to other teachers and students in their respective grades to participate in growing native flowers. Using native Zinnia seeds, they start the process in February, nurturing tiny seeds with the help of grow lights in their rooms until the last frost. Once the frost has passed, we plant the flowers in the ground, allowing them to blossom and flourish over the summer. By the time we return to School in August, the butterfly garden has transformed into a vibrant plant oasis, attracting various species of butterflies. In November, as the freezes start, we collect the seeds and begin the process anew each February, preparing for the next season. It is truly wonderful to see the children getting their hands dirty, appreciating the impact they are making, and delighting in the diverse wildlife that the garden attracts as they walk to Chapel every day. Is there anything else you would like to add? I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to share my passion for the butterfly garden. It brings me immense joy to witness the positive impact it has on the environment and the community. I encourage everyone to embrace the beauty of nature and the incredible journey of the butterflies… and don’t forget to plant milkweed! 13

Alumni Award Honorees DISTINGUISHED GRADUATE

G. Rainey Williams, Jr.

Dallas, having graduated from Casady in 2014, Texas Christian University in 2018, and earning her Masters in Science from Rush University College of Health Sciences in 2020. Rainey and each of his parents have served on the Casady Board of Trustees, and his siblings were each lifers at Casady. The entire family have been enthusiastic supporters of the School for many years!

Class of 1978

President of Marco Capital Group A Limited Partnership G. Rainey Williams, Jr. is president of Marco Capital Group A Limited Partnership, a privately owned investment partnership operating in Oklahoma, Texas, and the Southwestern United States. Marco has been an active private investor over the last 25+ years, investing in a broad number of private equity, real estate, and other alternative investments. Williams has led Marco since it and its predecessors were established in 1989. Williams serves as lead independent director of BancFirst Corporation and has served on the boards of numerous private companies such as American Trailer Works Inc., Benham Investment Holdings, and Titan Spine, Inc. Currently, he serves as chair of the University Hospitals Authority and Trust, is Chair of OU Health, Inc, and serves as Chair of the Investment Committee of Presbyterian Health Foundation, Inc. Williams has served as an adjunct professor in the graduate program (MBA) at Price College of Business at the University of Oklahoma. He is a former chairman of the YMCA Retirement Fund in New York, the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, and has served as Senior Warden of All Souls’ Episcopal Church. He has also held significant offices and/or board positions for numerous charitable organizations on and off the Oklahoma Health Center campus including Dean McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, the United Way of Metro Oklahoma City, and the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce. Williams earned a B.B.A. degree in Finance from Southern Methodist University and a law degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. Rainey and Casey Williams were married in Casady Chapel in 1989. They are the proud parents of three children who collectively attended Casady for a combined total of 40 years! Rainey III is now a practicing physician at Mercy Health in Oklahoma City, having graduated from Casady in 2009, Southern Methodist University in 2013, and the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine in 2020. Sam is a Vice President at New York City based private equity firm Rhone Capital, having attended Casady through 2009, and graduating from Vanderbilt University (Magna Cum Laude) in 2015. Grace is a Registered Dietician at Parkland Hospital in 14

YOUNG ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT

John Vincent Class of 2009 Supervisor - Robotics and Automation Ford Motor Company John Vincent is a respected engineer in the automotive industry. He is recognized for his contributions to technical innovation and leadership at Ford Motor Company. As an innovator, he has been awarded eight patents by the US Patent Office, with more than a dozen pending. Most recently, he leads a team of robotics engineers to develop next generation automation and robotic solutions to enhance job efficiency and worker safety. Since joining Ford in Michigan nearly 10 years ago, John has served in various roles across the company. This began in stamping, where he contributed to improvements in the production rate and quality of multiple new vehicle products. His notable projects included the first aluminum F-150, America's best-selling vehicle for 46 consecutive years, the Ford Edge and Lincoln MkX. In his quest for progress and innovation, John transitioned to Ford's research division, where he worked on pioneering mobility initiatives such as ride sharing, autonomous vehicles, and personal mobility devices. He led a $2 million research project in partnership with the University of Michigan to introduce a new dynamic shuttle service on the Ann Arbor campus, a first of its kind. During his time in mobility, John’s work contributed to Ford's strategic shift from a traditional auto company to a mobility focused company. John immigrated from China at age 15 and began his American journey as a sophomore at Casady School, where he set a foundation that set the stage for his future achievements. After graduating from Casady School in 2009, John attended Purdue University, where he received a degree in Industrial Engineering. In 2012, he proudly became a U.S. citizen. He lives in Michigan with his wife, Kellie, and their 7-month-old daughter, Soni. John is an active volunteer in his community, initiating a committee to benefit his

neighbors, managing fundraising events, and creating and running the website for the association. He is an avid golfer and skier. John values quality time with his family and nature.

ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT

Jean Akers Class of 1992

Foreign Service Officer at the U.S. Department of State Jean Akers is a consular-coned Foreign Service Officer at the U.S. Department of State. Her most recent position was in Washington, D.C. as the Director of the Post Analysis and Support Division in the Bureau of Consular Affairs’ Office of the Executive Director, where she led a team of 30 Foreign and Civil Service employees in providing policy and resource guidance to 230 consular teams around the globe – all of whom are charged with protecting the lives and interests of U.S. citizens abroad, providing routine citizenship services, and upholding national security while facilitating travel to the United States by issuing visas to qualified visitors, workers, and immigrants. Jean joined the Foreign Service in 2004. Upon entry, she was initially directed to an assignment at the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, but in a classic example of the need for adaptability in the Foreign Service, Jean’s assignment changed, and she was sent to the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao. From 2004-2006, Jean was the sole consular officer responsible for providing routine and emergency services to the nearly 2 million U.S. citizens who traveled to the six islands of the Dutch Caribbean (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Sint Maarten, St. Eustatius, and Saba) each year. Additionally, as post’s General Services Officer Jean oversaw all contracting, warehouse and motorpool operations, customs and shipping, and housing. Jean’s next assignment was as consular officer in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where she provided the full range of visa and U.S. citizens services. Following her tour in Phnom Penh, Jean returned to Washington from 2009-2011 to serve as a Career Development Officer in the Bureau of Global Talent Management, where she counseled and assigned new FSOs to their first and second tours. In 2011, Jean volunteered for a one year assignment in Kabul, Afghanistan as the deputy consular section chief providing services to U.S. citizens and foreign national visa applicants in an active war zone. She led her team’s response to multiple crises, including a day-long siege against the Embassy during which the consular waiting room took a direct hit from an RPG. Upon returning to Washington in 2012, the Bureau of Consular Affairs asked Jean to help build a new team focused on bureau-wide innovation, leadership, and

management excellence, eventually called “1CA.” Jean served as 1CA’s inaugural communications and training coordinator, training more than 3,000 Department professionals in techniques designed to enhance collaboration, operational effectiveness, and efficiency. In 2014, Jean was selected for service at the Department's training center, the Foreign Service Institute (FSI). She was charged with overseeing the flagship Basic Consular Course which provides training to hundreds of entry-level Foreign Service Officers each year prior to their initial consular assignment. Jean returned to Bureau of Consular Affairs’ headquarters in 2016 to manage consular staffing and assignments, working with her team to ensure consular sections worldwide had the human resources they needed to effectively carry out their mission. From there, Jean went to FSI as a student – to polish off the fair-to-middling French she learned at Casady – as preparation for her 2019 assignment as Consular Section Chief at the U.S. Consulate General in Montreal, Canada. Jean’s tenure in Montreal was marked by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the unprecedented closure of the U.S.-Canada border, and a complete reimagining of how to perform consular services amid a global pandemic. In August 2021, Jean flew into Kabul, Afghanistan, where for 12 days and nights she led a team of consular officers at the airport while working with the U.S. military, fellow diplomats, and other allied partners to facilitate the largest evacuation in U.S. history, with over 120,000 U.S. citizens and vulnerable Afghans airlifted to safety. Jean described this experience in the March 2022 edition of the Foreign Service Journal, and it remains one of the most consequential events of her life. Jean has been recognized for excellence throughout her career, within the Department and beyond. In 2022, the Secretary of State awarded Jean and her fellow consular officers the Department’s Award for Heroism for their service during the Afghanistan evacuation. In 2015 Jean received Chief Learning Officer’s Innovation Award for her work at FSI leading the redesign of the Basic Consular Course. She is the recipient of numerous Superior Honor Awards, as well as recognition from colleagues in other agencies. She speaks French, Khmer, and Dutch. After graduating from Casady in 1992, Jean worked in the restaurant business in Oklahoma City for three years before attending college at the State University of New York (SUNY) in New Paltz, NY. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in History, Jean moved to The Netherlands, where she earned her Master’s in International Relations from the Universiteit van Amsterdam just months before joining the Foreign Service. Jean is grateful for the love and support of her mother Barbara, her brother Danny and his husband Jerry, the entire Akers family, and many wonderful friends around the world. 15

Casady's Athletic Hall of Fame The purpose of the Athletic Hall of Fame is to honor outstanding Cyclones who have not only brought recognition to Casady, but established in the hearts and minds of our youth a motivating influence to excel, foster pride, preserve good sportsmanship, scholarship, and citizenship in the greater Casady Community, and to deepen alumni relationships. Casady’s Homecoming has traditionally celebrated Alumni Awards for: Distinguished Graduate, Alumni Achievement, and Young Alumni Achievement as well as Class Reunions. As Homecoming grows to honor

Cyclone athletes, coaches, teams, and contributors, we look forward to celebrating Cyclone Athletics and the impact it has on the spirit of the School. We are excited not only to thank and recognize those who have inspired us, but to also give current students and families another lasting blueprint for success. There are four categories in which an individual or group may be selected for induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Those under consideration must meet the criteria of their related category in order to be considered for induction to the Athletic Hall of Fame.

Those categories, and their criteria, are as follows:

Athletes

Coaches

• Must have performed with excellence (AC, All City, All State, etc…) and lettered in one or multiple (preferred) sports at Casady School.

• Must have distinguished themselves at Casady while demonstrating exceptional leadership, character, athletic achievement, and a commitment to the School's mission.

• Must be a Casady graduate and have been out of school for at least five years. • Must be, or have been, a credit to their community and Casady School. • May either be living or deceased.

• Must have retired from teaching, or if still teaching, retired from coaching for at least five years. • May either be living or deceased.

• If selected and living, individuals must make every effort to attend the induction ceremony.

Contributors

Varsity Team

• A person who has been a loyal and devoted supporter of Casady Athletics.

• Must have performed with excellence and sportsmanship.

• May be either living or deceased.

• Must have performed at least five years ago.

• If selected and living, individuals must make every effort to attend the induction ceremony.

2023 Induction Class Athletes Blake Arnold '73 Debbie O'Toole Cox '73 Leigh McCoy Kollaer '07

Coach Judy Warren

Contributor Bill London '67 - Deceased

Football 1972-73

Coach Glenn Sears - Deceased Coach John Gavula - Deceased Blake Arnold '73 Bill Aven '73 Rex Bell '73

Ray Cloer Jr. '73 Hunt Lowry '73 Ed Maxwell Sr. '73 Reynolds Patterson '73 Jim Robertson '73 Steve Shelley '73 Curt Boecking '74 Jerry Dugan '74 Wes Lane II '74 Steve Maril '74 Jay Shaffer '74 Skeet Wootten '74 Wayne Barbour '75 Jerry Coles '75 Chuck Covington '75 Eddie Gaylord II '75 Kent Ghahremani '75 Lou Larragoite '75 Don Lindauer II '75

Rex Linn '75 Charlie Nye '75 David Roach '75 Randy Schultz '75 - Deceased Robert Tomlinson '75 Jeffrey York '75 - Deceased Jonathan Colbert '76

Golf - Boys 1992-93

Coach Virgil Grantham Bill Bishop ’93 Trent Hancock ’93 Michael Love ’93 Trey Homsey ’94 Darrin Heusel ’95 Chad Homsey ’96

Faculty Award Winners

THE KAREN KNUTSON AWARD

Rachel Manriquez Casady Athletics Varsity Girls Volleyball Coach

The Karen Knutson Award is presented to a full-time teacher who has coached two seasons during the school year and whose encouragement and direction promote growth and confidence in the student-athlete and nurture the development of a productive team spirit.

I'm so honored to have received the Karen Knutson Award! Casady has been such a great community to be a part of, filled with kind people all around. I appreciate having a fantastic athletics staff to work with on a daily basis and a beautiful campus to enjoy. I hope I have impacted the Casady Community in a positive way; I try to bring a positive and hard working culture to my teams and classes. My parents taught me a lot about the grind and to always give it your all; I hope to pass some of that along.

THE GENEVA HOOD AWARD

Jen Matias Primary Division Faculty Kindergarten

The Geneva Hood Award, established in 1976 by Bill and Sue Hood, recognizes and honors an outstanding teacher.

Casady means so much to me, and it is such an honor to be a part of the Casady Community and to be a Geneva Hood Award recipient. When I was given the opportunity eleven years ago to work here, I remember feeling so grateful to teach at the same school that meant so much to my mom, Kathy Jenks ’74. Over these eleven years, I have loved so many things that Casady now means to me as well, such as the relationships I have with my colleagues, students, and their families. I'm looking forward to the coming years, and to continuing pouring the gifts and talents that I've been blessed with into this community that I love so much.

THE A.S. "MIKE" MONRONEY FELLOWSHIP AWARD

Angie Thomas Middle Division Faculty Science

The A.S. "Mike" Monroney Fellowship Award is presented to a faculty member for character, competence, and outstanding teaching abilities in the classroom.

THE JOHN R. HORTER MEMORIAL AWARD

Misty Reed Student Support Services Counselor

The John R. Horter Memorial Award is presented to that member of the Casady School faculty or staff who is recognized by his or her colleagues for character, service to the School, and for love of fellowman.

THE SANDRA BILLUPS CERNY AWARD

Jake Staats Assistant Middle Division Director

The Sandra Billups Cerny Award is given to a member of faculty, staff, or administration who is recognized by their colleagues for dedication to the School and excellence in meeting their responsibilities.

I am extremely honored, humbled, and energized to have received The Mike Monroney Fellowship Award. Casady School is full of so many incredibly talented and brilliant people, and I am thankful that I get to witness and learn from them every day. We have the most dedicated, giving, and hard-working community that provides the utmost support for its teachers. The support felt is both invigorating and encouraging that I am able to put all of my energy and focus into my classroom and students. I look forward to many more years here and watching your children, and my own, make their way around the Lake.

As a school counselor, much of my work is behind-the-scenes, and because my students are entitled to and deserve privacy, I don’t often get to talk about the little “wins” that happen behind closed doors. It’s difficult for me to express how much the John R. Horter Award means to me because of the overwhelming emotion that comes from having one’s friends and colleagues say, “we see you and appreciate the effects of what you do.” Being recognized in this way by the people I’ve grown to love and respect is definitely a career highlight. The people I serve with have tremendous heart and a shared mission; Casady is a special place.

To be awarded the Sandra Billups Cerny Award was truly rewarding, and I'm truly grateful for everything Casady has given me and my family. I first started working at Casady in 2010 as a fifth grade geography teacher. While quite green, our former Division Director was willing to take a chance on me, and I never looked back. In addition, my family has grown up here at Casady. My wife, Mallory Staats, currently works in Middle Division, and my son, August, has spent his entire life running around Bennett, Primary Division, and now Lower Division. This institution has given me a gift so rarely given to people: I spend my entire day with the people I love.

Class of 2023 By the Numbers 312

acceptances to 122 different colleges

will participate in honors colleges or programs

92%

admitted to a top choice college

will participate in 5 varsity sports

78%

will matriculate out-of-state

Class of 2023 Matriculation The following colleges and universities have offered admission to graduates of Casady School. Those shown in bold indicate where members of Casady's Class of 2023 will matriculate. Abilene Christian University Albright College Alcorn State University Allegheny College American University Amherst College Appalachian State University Arizona State University Assumption College Auburn University Austin College Baker University Bard College Barnard College-Columbia University Barnard College Bates College Baylor University* Belmont University Beloit College Bentley University Binghamton University Boston College* Boston University Boston Conservatory at Berklee Bowdoin College Brandeis University Brown University Bryn Mawr College Bucknell University California Lutheran University Calvin College Cameron University Carleton College Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University Centre College Chapman University Claremont McKenna College Clemson University 22

National Merit Finalists

Coe College Colgate University College of Charleston College of William & Mary College of Wooster Colorado College Colorado School of Mines* Colorado State University Columbia University Concordia University - Irvine Cornell University Creighton University Dartmouth College Davidson College Denison University DePaul University DePauw University Dillard University Drexel University Drury University Duke University* Earlham College Eckerd College Elon University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Emerson College-Honors College Emerson College Emory University Emporia State University Eugene Lang College The New School for Liberal Arts Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Institute of Technology Florida State University Fontbonne University Fordham University Fort Lewis College Furman University George Mason University

$10M in scholarships awarded

U.S. Presidential Scholar

Matriculation to

different colleges in 21 states + DC

The George Washington University Georgetown University* Georgia Institute of Technology Gonzaga University Grinnell College Hamilton College-NY Hampden-Sydney College Hampshire College Hardin-Simmons University Harding University Harvard University Hawaii Pacific University Hendrix College High Point University Hope College Howard University Indiana University Indiana University-Bloomington Inst Tecnologico de Buenos Aires Iowa State University Ithaca College James Madison University John Brown University Johns Hopkins University Juniata College Kansas State University Kansas Wesleyan University Kenyon College King’s College Knox College Lafayette College Laguna College of Art & Design Lake Forest College Langston University Lehigh University Lewis & Clark College Lindenwood University Louisiana State University Loyola Marymount University

Loyola University, Chicago* Loyola University, New Orleans Luther College Lynchburg College Lyon University Macalester College Manchester University Marion Military Institute Marietta College Maryland Institute College of Art Marymount Manhattan College Maryville University Massachusetts Institute of Technology McGill University McPherson College Miami University, Oxford Mid-America Christian University Mid-America Christian University Middlebury College Mid-Plains Community College Millsaps College Mississippi College Mississippi State University Missouri Baptist University Missouri University of Science & Technology Mount Holyoke College Murray State College New Mexico Institute of Mining & Technology New Mexico State University Newcastle University Newman University New York University North Carolina A&T State University Northeastern University Northern Arizona University Northern Oklahoma College Northwestern Oklahoma State University Northwestern University Oberlin College Occidental College Ohio State University Oklahoma Baptist University Oklahoma Christian University Oklahoma City Community College Oklahoma City University Oklahoma State University* Oklahoma State University, OKC Oklahoma Wesleyan College Ottawa University Parsons The New School for Design Pennsylvania State University Pepperdine University Philander Smith College Point Loma Nazarene University Pomona College Portland State University Prairie View A&M University Presentation College Princeton University* Purchase College Purdue University Randolph College Randolph-Macon College Reed College Regis University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rhode Island School of Design Rhodes College Rice University* Rider University Roanoke College Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design Rollins College Rollins University Saint Louis University

Saint Michael's College Samford University San Diego State University Santa Clara University Sarah Lawrence College Savannah College of Art and Design School of the Art Institute of Chicago School of Visual Arts Scripps College Seattle Pacific University Semmelweis University Seton Hall University Sewanee: The University of the South Skidmore College Smith College Southern Methodist University* Southern University and A&M College Southwestern College Southwestern Oklahoma State University Southwestern University Spelman College St. Ambrose University St. Edward’s University St. John’s College St. Olaf College Stanford University Sweet Briar College Syracuse University Texas A&M University* Texas Christian University* Texas Southern University Texas Tech University Texas Wesleyan University The University of Texas at Arlington Transylvania University Trinity College Trinity University Tufts University Tulane University Universidad Argentina de la Empresa Universidad Catolica Argentina United States Air Force Academy United States Coast Guard Academy United States Military Academy at West Point United States Naval Academy University of Alabama University of Arizona University of Arkansas University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff University of British Columbia University of California, Berkeley University of California, Davis University of California, Irvine University of California, Merced University of California, Los Angeles University of California, San Diego University of California, Santa Barbara University of California, Santa Cruz University of Central Arkansas University of Central Florida University of Central Oklahoma University of Chicago University of Cincinnati University of Colorado, Boulder University of Connecticut University of Denver* University of Edinburgh University of Florida University of Georgia University of Hawaii, Monoa University of Houston University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign University of Kansas University of Kentucky University of King’s College

University of Liverpool University of Manchester University of Maryland University of Massachusetts, Amherst University of Massachusetts, Boston University of Massachusetts, College Park University of Miami University of Michigan* University of Mississippi* University of Missouri, Columbia University of Missouri, Kansas City BS/MD University of Nebraska, Lincoln University of Nevada, Las Vegas University of New Mexico University of North Carolina, Asheville University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill University of North Carolina, Greensboro University of North Carolina, Wilmington University of North Texas University of Northumbria University of Notre Dame University of Oklahoma* University of Oregon University of the Pacific University of Pennsylvania University of Pittsburgh University of Puget Sound University of Redlands University of Rhode Island University of Richmond University of Rochester University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma University of South Carolina University of Southern California University of Southern Mississippi University of St. Andrews, Scotland University of Sussex University of Tampa University of Tennessee-Knoxville University of Texas, Austin University of Texas University of Toronto University of Tulsa University of Utah University of Virginia University of Washington University of Wisconsin-Madison Valparaiso University Vanderbilt University Vassar College Villanova University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Wabash College* Wake Forest University Washington and Lee University Washington University, St. Louis Wellesley College Wesleyan University Westminster College Western Colorado University Westmont College Wheaton College Whitman College Whittier College Whitworth University Wittenberg University William Jewell College Xavier University Xavier University of Louisiana Yale University University of York

1950S DECADE DAY SPEAKER

Max Weitzenhoffer ’57 Max Weitzenhoffer is a well-recognized patron of the arts. As Chairman of Nimax Theatres, he owns six theaters in the teeming arts district of the West End in London, England. His extensive career involves roles as Chairman of the University of Oklahoma Regents, President and Chief Executive Officer of Seminole Manufacturing Company, and Visiting Professor of Musical Theater at OU. Mr. Weitzenhoffer earned Tony Awards for the revival of Dracula, and best musical for The Will Rogers Follies. In 1994, he was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Mr. Weitzenhoffer

holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama from OU. Mr. Weitzenhoffer is married and has two children, both of whom graduated from Casady, Nikki in 2020 and Owen in 2021. Mr. Weitzenhoffer came to Casady School as a seventh grader in 1951 and graduated in 1957. Casady Theatre was the highlight of his time here. His most famous role was in “Angel Street” also known as “Gaslight.” He played the role done by Joseph Cotton in the film and Gregory Peck on the stage.

1960S DECADE DAY SPEAKER

Karen Carter Towles ’65 1960s Decade Day Speaker, Karen Carter Towles, is a fixture on the Casady campus. Although Mrs. Towles officially retired from teaching after 30 years in Primary Division, she is now working part-time as the Montessori Coordinator for the School and assists teachers in getting their Montessori certification. Mrs. Towles graduated from Casady in 1965 and went to OU and graduated from OCU. She began her career in banking where she spent 13 years. When she left the banking industry after her children were born, she was a Vice President overseeing operations functions and customer service. 24

Since Mrs. Towles and her husband Chris are both Casady graduates, they knew Casady was the only place for their children, Katie who was Class of 2000 and Clay who was Class of 2003. Mrs. Towles volunteered in Primary as a parent and loved it so much that she began teaching soon after Clay finished in Primary. Besides receiving her Montessori certificate and teaching here, she also taught Montessori classes at OCU for seven years and was an Examiner and Observer and still does volunteer work with OCU.

Celebrations Decade Days

1970S DECADE DAY SPEAKER

Clay I. Bennett ’78 Clay Bennett is a member of Casady’s Class of 1978. He is chairman of the Professional Basketball Club, L.L.C., which is the owner of the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Oklahoma City Blue of the NBA G League. He is chairman of Dorchester Capital, a diversified private investment company and serves as an investor, officer, and director of numerous business entities. Highly involved in civic and charitable efforts, Mr. Bennett has served as chairman of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, the Oklahoma State Fair, Oklahoma Industries Authority, the Oklahoma Heritage Association, the Oklahoma Health Center Foundation, and he served on the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents from 2011–18, including a term as chairman from 2017-18. Mr. Bennett currently serves as a director of the Oklahoma City Industrial and Cultural Facilities Trust, and the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame. He is also the Chairman of the Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Advisory Council, which is comprised of representatives of law enforcement, elected officials, legal experts and business and civic leaders. It focuses on developing a more holistic approach to criminal justice in Oklahoma County. Mr. Bennett’s leadership in

this area helped lead to a successful citizen-approved effort to construct a new Oklahoma County jail. Mr. Bennett was inducted to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2007, and in 2014 joined the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame. In 2008, he received the Distinguished Graduate Award, the highest Alumni Award given by Casady School. Also in 2008, he was named “Oklahoman of the Year” by Oklahoma Today magazine. Since its arrival in Oklahoma City in 2008, the Thunder has achieved significant success on and off the court, including five Northwest Division titles, four trips to the Western Conference Finals, and one appearance in the NBA Finals. The Bennett family has many ties in the Oklahoma City community and to Casady School. Both of Mr. Bennett’s brothers are graduates of the School as well as many nieces, nephews, and in-laws. His wife, Louise Gaylord Bennett, is a 1979 graduate. Their children include Mollie McCurdy who is a member of the class of 2000, Christy Lane, a 2006 graduate, and Graham Bennett from the Class of 2012. Two of Mr. Bennett’s grandchildren are in Primary Division. Francie McCurdy is in Kindergarten and Bennett McCurdy is in PreK. And he has twin granddaughters, Charlotte and Mollie Lane. 25

1980S DECADE DAY SPEAKER

Kermit Alexander ’83 Kermit Alexander arrived at Casady with an interesting mix of personal views: he was intimidated by extremely wealthy families at Casady, but he was also confident that he was as smart as anybody. He pursued sports to improve his athletic confidence (he was not the tallest or fastest, but he would work on both pursuing football, basketball, and track). He also loved the School’s commitment to education. This resulted in the following:

After leaving Japan and AT&T Bell Labs, Kermit worked as an independent consultant in technology. This included several stints with public and private organizations including:

•

Four-year letterman in basketball

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Little All City Player of the Year in 1983 for basketball

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SPC Basketball Champion for four consecutive years – the 1983 team was just inducted at Homecoming to Casady’s Athletic Hall of Fame

Maryland Information Technology Board (he was one of 15 people nominated by the governor of Maryland)

•

Casady Olympics singles ping pong champion – four years in a row

Chairman, Educational Technology Committee, for the Maryland Information Technology Board

•

Director, Maryland Information Technology Center

•

National Merit Scholar

•

Board of Directors, Maryland Business Roundtable

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National Achievement Scholar

•

Software Architect for Fortune 100 companies

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Presidential Scholar (today, only 161 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students)

He kept up his self-affirmation by choosing Harvard because that’s where the smartest people go. He didn’t care about class size or environment. At Harvard, he accomplished the following:

After graduation, Kermit pursued a Master’s in Computer Science from Stanford and worked for the Japan Ministry of Education as an English teacher in Japanese High Schools. He also began working as an engineer for AT&T designing telecommunications switching systems for foreign countries.

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John Harvard Scholar (awarded to the top 75 freshmen students)

•

AT&T Bell Labs Engineering Scholar (full scholarship to Harvard)

•

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

Kermit has partnered with his wife, whom he met when they were seven, to have three sons and one daughter. He currently works for Deloitte helping Fortune 500 and startups achieve Research and Development tax credits.

1990S DECADE DAY SPEAKER

Chandler Sims ’99 Chandler Sims graduated from Casady in 1999 and attended the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, where he was a 4-year letter winner in football. After graduating from the Naval Academy, Chandler took a commission in the United States Marine Corps where he learned to fly helicopters. Following three combat deployments he was assigned to Marine Helicopter Squadron 1, where he served as a Marine 1 pilot for President Barrack Obama. He left active duty in 2015 and moved to Dallas where

he, his wife Ashley, and two sons Chandler and Cabell live today. Chandler received Casady’s Young Alumni Achievement Award in 2011. He is the oldest of four children, three of whom are Casady graduates. Chandler is currently a Senior Vice President at CBRE, the largest global commercial real estate advisory firm. "All of this is possible because of the foundation that was cemented on these 80.8 acres," Chandler said.

2000S DECADE DAY SPEAKER

Grayson Walker ’07 Grayson Walker graduated from Casady in 2007 and moved to Dallas to attend Southern Methodist University, where he completed an undergraduate course of study in political philosophy and Spanish language and literature. Grayson prefers school to work, so after SMU he enrolled in graduate school and has since earned degrees in biblical and theological studies, and as of 2020, law. Today Grayson is deputy general counsel to Oklahoma Governor J. Kevin Stitt, to whom Grayson

provides strategic counsel on matters of law, policy, and ethics. He previously clerked for the Honorable Thomas E. Prince of the Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals. Before law school, Grayson worked as an 8th grade teacher and coach at Casady; a campus minister at the University of Texas at Austin; and as a staffer in the Texas House of Representatives. He and his wife, Abby, and daughters Margaret and Wendy, belong to King’s Cross Church and call Oklahoma City home. 27

First Day of School

Homecoming

All School Photo

Cyclones Coast to Coast

Cyclone Festival

Anniversary Gala

John Kennedy '72 Charge to the Graduating Class Scan to watch John's speech!

This is very exciting. I'd like to start by thanking Nathan. I greatly appreciate all the work that he does and all the heart that he puts into this amazing School. I love Casady, and I appreciate Nathan. Let's recognize Nathan. He actually struck that out of my notes, but he didn't mention Heritage at all either, so we're even. It's an honor to be here with all the graduates, your very proud family members, and your special friends. So to the graduates, if you could stand up and turn around and look back there and just wave to all those people that are here supporting you. Thank you. These are the people that really love you. To the faculty, who I think is out on a trek around campus, I remember every one of my Casady teachers by name. I remember how kind they were to me and I was inspired by each of them. Let's recognize today's teachers and all the teachers that came before them. Dr. Robert Woolsey was the Head of School when I was here, and I really loved him. So I can't stand up here and not say his name. He was the intersection of brilliance and kindness. I also like to thank all the Casady administrators, staff, board members, volunteers, donors, and all that make this incredible educational opportunity possible. Let's thank all of them. I hope you don't mind, but I plan to deliver the shortest commencement speech in Casady history. You're an exceptional class. I've read all the statistics of the Class of 2023, and wow, it is very impressive. My class was slightly different. We were what I referred to as hippies. We buried an actual car engine on the other side of the Chapel to commemorate the first ever World Earth Day. We had long hair for Casady at the time, and we wore psychedelic ties. And those ties were very ugly. We claim to have invented Frisbee golf right here on this campus, and there is a plaque somewhere in one of those buildings that supposedly proves it. Our class loves each other, and maybe even more now than ever. Our reunions are like a love fest. So my hope for you is that the relationships your class has formed over the last 12 years, the last four years, however long you all have been here, my hope is that those relationships last forever. My classmates remain an important part of my life. About 20 years ago, I read a poll about what people look for in their best friends. The top five answers

were: to be understood, to be accepted, to be appreciated, to be listened to, and to be forgiven. Those are the things that we are looking for, according to this poll. To be understood, accepted, appreciated, listened to, and forgiven. There are a lot of things in this world that are overrated, but relationships are often underrated. Relationships are everything. The two things that I'm really working on now are the Oklahoma City National Memorial and the Clara Luper Sit-In Plaza. 28 years ago, on April 19, 1995, at 9:02 a.m. at the Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City. 9:02 in the morning, after children arrived and began playing in the daycare center, after dedicated workers in the various agencies had settled in to their desks, after senior citizens began arriving to enroll in the Social Security office at the most vulnerable time possible, a coward with two accomplices detonated a huge bomb blowing off the north half of the federal building, killing 168 children, women, and men. It remains the largest, most horrific act of violence by Americans, on Americans, in U.S. history. Their purpose, these terrorists later stated, was to start a chain reaction to bring down America. They chose Oklahoma City as the first line of defense in this diabolical plan. Rather than cower, our city showed great strength, compassion, courage, and even kindness. We came together as those perpetrators never imagined. Oklahoma City became known across the country, across the world. Oklahoma City became known for strength, resilience, determination, and healing from unimaginable violence and tragedy. 36 years earlier than that, in 1958, five blocks down the street from the site of the Murrah Building, on the same street, Robinson Avenue had Katz Drug. 13 African-American children, ages 7-17, went inside

to the lunch counter with a simple request. They wanted to have a hamburger and Coke. That was it. Because of a pervasive policy in our city and across America, they were refused service solely because of the color of their skin. They sat there with the support of the mother of two of those children who was a schoolteacher: Clara Luper. They sat there during business hours for three days until Katz Drugs decided to change this injustice and integrate not only the downtown Oklahoma City store, but all of the Katz Drugs in their five state chain. Mrs. Luper and these children went on to integrate scores of restaurants all over Oklahoma City and thus began the successful sit-in movement that swept across America, changing our city forever. It began right here in Oklahoma City because 13 children had the courage and determination to effect this change. It was nonviolent, and the Oklahoma City police handled the situations gently and with kindness. That cooperation with the police is an important part of the story. This is the city that you grew up in. The location of one of the most successful acts of nonviolence in United States history. The sit-in movement and on the same street was Oklahoma City's courageous response to our country's most horrific act of domestic terrorism. Our community's responses to these two historic events define Oklahoma City as one of the greatest places in our entire world. That is your legacy. I am confident each of you is up to the challenge to sustain it in this outstanding class of which you are a member. Your class will undoubtedly make this world an even better place, especially in these other 22 states that you're going to. I'm proud of each of you, and I wish you all the best.

Thank you. 35

Peter FitzSimons '23 Class of 2023 Graduation Speaker It takes a long time to build a solid foundation. One day, when I was filling out information on my college applications, I had to look at my complete Casady transcript. On that transcript was a date that jumped out at me instantly. March 28, 2008, the day of my enrollment at Casady. March 28, 2008. That was 5545 days ago. Casady's mission statement is: Casady School develops excellence, confidence, and integrity in students and prepares them with the skills and knowledge that serve as the foundation for success. For the past 5545 days, Casady has instilled this foundation in me so that I may succeed in the future. However, that whole time I've watched the building of another foundation. These graduates, including myself, make up a foundation for each member of the Class of 2023, and have contributed to laying a strong foundation for us to stand on together. Whenever I have been tasked with writing a speech or a personal essay of some sort, I've always been drawn to one of the most important, and arguably most central, messages of Casady School: the idea that true excellence is constructed through a marked attention to mind, body, and spirit. I usually try to avoid it, just because I don't want to overuse it. However, for what I consider my final assignment at Casady and my final time as a student speaking about what this place means to me, I have to talk about it. While a structural foundation is made of concrete or stone, the materials of our foundation are mind, body and spirit; changing our minds, exercising our bodies, and demonstrating our spirit. This class has constructed a sturdy and reliable foundation in regard to excellence in mind. We have a pretty good resume: 12 National Merit Finalists, a record 312 acceptances into 122 different schools, and $10 million in scholarship money. Reflect on just how much work we put in and how much work the faculty has put into teaching us. But it isn't just that, in all classes at all levels, we push each other and help each other learn. We are far more collaborative than competitive, and that has been one of our classes greatest assets in our academic careers. As we move on to many different colleges and universities, there's no doubt in my mind that we will all thrive in regard to excellence in body. Once again, a pretty good resume. We have nine graduates matriculating in college to be athletes. Now, I'm not sure if that's a record, but it's at least the most in a 36

while. If you walk into Bennett, you will see and hear people working hard in the gym, on the fields, and in the weight room. This next part may fall a little bit in the spirit category, but I'm lumping it in with body. I'm not sure I've ever felt more of a rush than when I watched my classmates play sports, whether it be from the student section or right beside them. Despite not playing any sports in the SPC, this year I had the privilege and the opportunity to travel to all three SPC Championships. Seeing the final test of all the hard work and exercise of my fellow students is one of the greatest feelings I have had at Casady. The second day of the Spring Tournament in Fort Worth was my last day cheering for Casady as a member of the student section. I was so absorbed in the track meet that I neglected to put on sunscreen all day. Now, I'm not sure how much you guys know about the Texas sun or what happens to people with my hair color, but I certainly felt the consequences of that later. After watching one last race, I hopped in my car to rush to the tennis finals with sunburned skin and high emotions. I watched the last time the Class of 2023 would compete for Casady as shoes scuffled across the court and balls bounced back and forth, back and forth. I let out my final “Let's Go Cyclones.” In that moment, all of my experiences with sports rushed back to me, and I realized how crucial athletics have been to the sense of togetherness and the foundation of our class. I hope that younger Casady students like watching us compete as much as I do, because that will be the framework and the foundation for Casady to excel in athletics in the future. Finally, excellence in spirit. I could talk about our classes’ spirit for hours. Stories of us at pep rallies and other athletic events fill my mind: losing our voices at basketball games, getting all dressed up with sunglasses and clipboards to coach powder puff football. But something much bigger happened more recently. Now, this may be recency bias, but the biggest demonstration of our great spirit, in my opinion, was 15 days ago. On our last ever day of school at Casady, I almost missed the final bell as I was grabbing something from outside. I checked my phone and saw that it was 3:29 p.m. The bell rings at 3:30 p.m. I sprinted back in and opened the door just as I heard that chime for the last time. The first thing I saw was everyone standing around the circle of blue couches that we have kept throughout the year. We could have put those couches in whatever configuration we wanted, but the Class of 2023 chose a circle at the end of our time together. We could have faced forward into the future or backwards into the past, but instead we decided to be in the circle

one last time and face each other as the chimes rang. Cheers swooped through the common area. The excitement of us making it this far and the sorrow of the knowledge that this part of our lives is over, filled me and others with an intense, bittersweet feeling. Then, almost immediately after the short cheers faded, the tears started. Nearly everyone stayed in Records for over an hour after the final bell. It wasn't just because some of us had our cars parked all the way up to Hightower. No, we stayed after because we could not stand the idea of leaving that building, leaving each other, for the last time. That day I saw people I never thought I'd see cry bawling at the end of our great journey together. People who were in that room can attest to how you could feel the togetherness. When looking and walking around, moments like that are what I know I'm going to miss the most about this wonderful group of people, especially in these last few months of school. I felt a sense of togetherness in our class that I have never felt before with anything. As a class, we have experienced many good and bad things together. I have never seen another class want to win competitions as much as we do. I've never seen another class be more willing to help each other. I have never seen another class come together as much as we have in the face of whatever comes our way. But now our foundation building is complete. It's over. After today, we will no longer be classmates. This fall, the Casady class of 2023 will be going around the country to 47 different schools in 21 different states. But despite our future geographical differences, we will still be connected. This place right here will always be where we made our foundation, even though all of the little parts of this class will be spread all over the place. It does not mean that the foundation is broken, because now I trust you will build on that foundation. Once all of us are in college, we will be able to once again find a sense of togetherness with a brand new group of people. Continue not only to build yourself up, but also bring your new peers with you. Continue to set the bar high, especially for yourself. The foundation of something is just the basis, meaning this is by no means the end of our learning or our growth as people. Now that we are graduating, it is time to build. Class of 2023, I know that you will build yourselves into great people, but to take it a step further, I encourage you to build the world around you into the type of place you want it to be.

Scan to watch Peter's speech!

Thank you. 37

Campaign for Casady School People | Places | Programs Building Casady's Future Casady School is a collection of people, places, and programs, all focused on developing skills and knowledge in our students so that they may lead successful lives of balance, purpose, and joy. For Casady to remain the beacon of private school education in Oklahoma, we must never take for granted the abundance that people before us have created for our benefit. We must prepare new learning spaces and new ways to engage our students in educational instruction. Within a comprehensive campaign, whether it be bricks and mortar, support for faculty, legacy and planned giving, or continued growth in endowment and the Annual Fund, sustainability and development to support initiatives and programs are priorities in our planning. Campaigns are the result of well-researched and strategically staged plans designed to bring leadership’s vision for the School to life. Priorities are identified through a thorough and exhaustive process that begins with thoughtful dialogue about the School’s future. Every effort is made to ensure that the direction in master planning will serve needs now and into the future. Each priority in a Comprehensive Campaign is identified due to the programmatic impact it will have on our campus and our culture. While we work diligently to address future needs, we must continue to evolve with the changing of the times and continue to seek new ways to positively impact students today and into the future.

Places that Inspire The Comprehensive Campaign for Casady has benefitted the School through capital projects, faculty support, endowment growth, planned giving, and our Annual Fund campaign.

Loeffler Primary Division Building The Loeffler Building opened this fall to 166 PreK and Kindergarten students and nearly 30 faculty and staff in a newly renovated building that was expanded by 7,500 square feet. Interest in Casady’s Montessori-based program has grown exponentially. Demand in the Oklahoma City community for exceptional education in these early years of a child’s life served as the foundation on which the School based the expansion of its programs and the building. This new space and programming allows the School to accommodate a more than 30% increase in enrollment for our youngest Cyclones.

Mathis Family Fitness and Performance Center This state-of-the-art strength and wellness complex will allow for expanded physical fitness programs, core training, technology, and wellness programming for all students in grades PreK through 12. Construction of the nearly 8,000-square-foot Mathis Family Fitness and Performance Center is due to be complete in time for Power Camps in the summer of 2024.

Field Hockey Facility | Payne Family Stadium | Edwards Field Casady's commitment to the Cyclone Field Hockey program is strong. The School recognizes the evolution of the sport on a larger scale, both within our competitor schools in the SPC and on a collegiate level. We’re especially encouraged by this increased level of competition and the Cyclone momentum we see. To support Cyclone Field Hockey's 70-year history, we are literally elevating the playing field and constructing a new water-based turf Edwards Field and Payne Family Stadium for our fans. Since the 1990s, we’ve had more than 30 student-athletes move on to play the sport in college.

Computer Science Wing of Hightower Building In the spring of 2022, Casady School announced several academic initiatives under the School’s Strategic Academic Plan. Computer Science is one of those initiatives where the School is expanding the implementation of a robust and vertically aligned Computer Science program to ensure our mission of preparing students with the skills and knowledge that serve as the foundation for success. This Upper Division project to support the Computer Science initiative aligns with the dedicated space the School already created in Middle Division with the Makerspace and computer science classrooms, as well as the Launchpad in Lower Division.