Service Recognition 2023 Flipbook

SERVICE RECOGNITION AND RETIREMENT LUNCHEON

June 6, 2023

Pianist Kelsey Sciacca ’26

Welcome from Planning Committee

Joy Misocky, Leslie Wickham, Jennifer Wouters

Special Message from Parents’ Council President

Lauran Godwin

Years of Service and Retiree Video

Special Thanks

Chuck Baldecchi

Awards Presentation

Inlustrate Orbem Awards

James McLelland ’17

Paulyne A. Flemm Award (MS)

Sonja Taylor

Jane Bratton Spratt Awards (LS, MS, US)

Sonja Taylor

John Branch Stedman Award

Sonja Taylor

Steve Howard Excellence in Coaching Award

David Gatoux

Class of ’95 Support Staff Awards

Rob McArthur

Humanitarian Award

Rob McArthur

Kim Mullery Water Carrier Awards

Chuck Baldecchi

Closing Remarks

Chuck Baldecchi

2023 HONOREES

35 YEAR HONOREES

Buck Bryant

Tom Dubick

Kay Rigo

25 YEAR HONOREES

Marsha Ashcraft

Chris Berger

Greg Lucas

20 YEAR HONOREES

Katie Smith

Susan Russell

Virginia Schneidt

15 YEAR HONOREES

Ephraim Akihola

Beth Eastridge

Alicia Long

Heather Shaw

Richard Smalls, Jr.

Susan Tenkin

10 YEAR HONOREES

Ann Brock

Matt Cosper

Whitney Duquette

Topher Gee

John Herrick

Kate Hughey

Tammi Rogers

Lucy Smith

William Strickland

Rives Wedding

5 YEAR HONOREES

Christine Adams

Juliana Angel-Alexander

Debi Berry

Curtis Bowers

Kelly Brown

Mark Brunton

Tim Creamer

Drew Dayton

Nidhie Dhiman

Lauri Dragelin

David Gatewood

Tanya Kellar

Laura Korkowski

Emily Long

Marty Minchin

Powell Paguibitan

Jason Parker

Suzanne Robards

Sandy Rosenberg

Lori Quattlebaum

BUCK BRYANT

Lower School Physical Education, Bus Driver & Ultimate Coordinator

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Golfing, biking and scuba diving.

What is your favorite kind of food? Free.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory I’ve been here too many years to pick one.

What is something we might not know about you? I’ve been at CLS with every single Headmaster.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? Whichever old comedy I might have watched recently.

What do you love most about Latin? The fact they put up with me for 35 plus years and let me do what I love, teach and play games with LS students.

TOM DUBICK

Teacher and Fab Academy Instructor

Your family. Wife: Sandy, whose support makes any of my limited successes possible. Wife (deceased): Lynn Dubick was there at the beginning to help me get started on this journey. Daughter: Diana Brennan, Son: Thomas Dubick Son: Alex Beaussart Daughter: Denise Clark Daughter: Audrey Beaussart Grandchildren: Nora, John, Lili and Joe.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Family and Grandchildren.

What is your favorite family vacation? Any time I am outside.

What is your favorite kind of food? Spicy.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

35 years celebration? I have way too many great memories to pick one. Working with students, parents, and Latin families during the pandemic would be a recent highlight.

What is something we might not know about you?

I wrestled a black bear, jumped out of a perfectly good airplane, and ice-climbed in New Hampshire. Yea, I really should not be left to my own devices.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Casablanca, Pulp Fiction, The Revenant.

What do you love most about Latin?

Our students and all the wonderful adults that make a place like Latin possible.

KAY RIGO Facilities / Events Setup

Your family.

Husband Brian , 2 Daughters, Misty & Crystal, 1 Son Daniel, 5 Grandkids, Brayden 14, Sam 9, Xander 7, Dalton 2, Isabelle 1

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Being near the Ocean, the Lake or any River, Boating when we can, camping anywhere any time, walking trails, crafting, thrift shopping and setting on my backporch swing.

What is your favorite family vacation?

ST. Augustine Beach FL., but anytime we’re all together, it’s a treat for me.

What is your favorite kind of food? POTATOES, ANY WAY, ANY TIME.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

Yesterday, because I knew today would be my 35 years of service Recognition !!!!!!!!!

What is something we might not know about you?

Due to being a Twin, I had to wear an ID bracelet when we were born (no identifying mark’s on either. ) One night at bath time Mom and Grandma got the bracelet’s mix up, so they took a guess and put the bracelet’s back on. So am I really Kay, or have been Fay all these years. TRUTH, I’m not sure either !!!!!!!

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Comedy, Romance , Action , no favorite really

What do you love most about Latin?

Working with Administrative, faculty, Staff and Parents over the years has been a great experience for me. I use to be really shy, I’m over that now. Love my Job, but Love my Latin peeps more.

MARSHA ASHCRAFT

Second Grade Lead Teacher

Your family. Husband, Mark; sons, Mark (06), Ben(08), and Thomas (10), and Thomas’ wife, Lexi.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

I love to spend time with my family, read, and do yard work.

What is your favorite family vacation?

For over 38 years, Lichfield by the Sea, SC, with my hubby and boys.

What is your favorite kind of food? Carbs.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

As a parent: three graduations, five football championships, and three student body presidents. As a teacher, football players visiting on Fridays for 20-plus years, visits from my former students on their last day at Latin, and the funny things second graders say every day.

What is something we might not know about you?

I used to sing for weddings. ( Many, many years ago).

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Movies: Tombstone, The Godfather II TV: Game of Thrones, Succession.

What do you love most about Latin?

Our second-grade team (Amazing); working with Latin legends Martha Owen in second grade and Ellen Bickett in first grade.

CHRIS BERGER

Assistant Athletic Director, PE

Department, Head of Boys’ Basketball, and Head of Boys’ Golf

Your family.

Wife-Heidi Daughters-Molly (19)and Lucy (16)

3 Dogs-Winnie, Sonny, and Sammy

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Traveling and Golf

What is your favorite family vacation? Hilton Head Island and Grandfather Mountain.

What is your favorite kind of food? Anything Chicken.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

Recently naming the SAC floor after my mentor and father figure Jerry Faulkner. It was great to see all the Latin basketball alumni back on campus.

What is something we might not know about you? I’m a 1989 graduate.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? TV show-Seinfeld Movie-The Godfather.

What do you love most about Latin? The feeling of family.

GREG LUCAS

Grounds. MS basketball clock operator, Varsity Boys Basketball Bus Driver.

Your family.

Fay Lucas “Spouse” Benji “son” Matt “son” Kristen “Daughter “ Ashley “Daughter “ Ben, Emily, Aubrey, Nolan, Avery, Karly Jo, Grandchildren.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Travel, camping, watching sports “ all kinds “walking, hiking, Hanging out with the family.

What is your favorite family vacation?

Anywhere with my Grandchildren, beach, Mountains.

What is your favorite kind of food?

Pretty much anything to do with pasta.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

So So many. I would have to say varsity boys State championship Basketball game here at Latin, (3 points) away from winning the game, Sooooooo close, and meeting the Kindergarden for the first day of school on my bus, then seeing them graduate years later.

What is something we might not know about you? I played high school baseball with George Clooney. Lived 1 half block from his house.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Shawshank Redemption, and Wizard of Oz. Black list.

What do you love most about Latin?

It would have to be driving the LS students on my bus, there was a show on TV called Kids say the Darndest Things, it holds true on my bus.

SUSAN RUSSELL

Third Grade Teacher

Your family.

Husband Mark Russell

Children Trevor Sheets, Emily Sheets

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

I love to do workout classes at the YMCA, gardening, and gatherings with family and friends.

What is your favorite family vacation?

I love to go on beach trips with my family!

What is your favorite kind of food?

I love Mexican food, seafood, a good entree salad.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

A favorite memory at Charlotte Latin School is our Third Grade Parent Poetry Program each spring. My students always put so much effort into their poems, and the presentation is always so heartfelt.

What is something we might not know about you? Both of my children are currently engaged and their weddings are just a few months apart.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

I’ve enjoyed watching The Crown and keeping up with the Royal family through other TV specials too.

What do you love most about Latin? I love working with my awesome third grade team! I also love the incredible professional development opportunities we can experience at Charlotte Latin School.

VIRGINIA SCHNEIDT Kindergarten Assistant

Your family.

Husband - Carl, Son - Will (2011 graduate of CLS)

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Gardening, exercising, nothing like sitting down with a good book, and trying new recipes, home improvement projects.

What is your favorite family vacation?

We love going to the beach and exploring the North Carolina mountains which offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, waterfalls, and wildlife and quaint towns.

What is your favorite kind of food?

I love all Italian foods and dishes . My favorite is scallops.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

In kindergarten everyday is a wonderful memory not only with the children but also with my wonderful team. My favorite memory was during a Grandparents day practice we desperately needed 2 people to sew scarfs. Could not find anyone, I decided to call my mother-in-law and Joanne (sister-in-law) and said WE NEED YOUR SEWING TALENT. THIS IS AN EMERGENCY. They came right over to the SAC with their sewing machines and they finished the sewing project. They saved the day. Joanne to this day talks about it and how much fun they had.

What is something we might not know about you?

I enjoy spending time in the yard creating a safe haven for the wildlife that pass through.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? Matlock/ Only murders in the Building. Favorite movie - Stand by Me.

What do you love most about Latin?

There is a lot to love at CLS. What I truly love is the amazing lower school team, especially the TK/K team. I absolutely love the teamwork and the respect that we all have for one another. It is fun coming to work with happy people who love where they work and I see smiles everywhere I turn. I can’t forget about the wonderful hugs and smiles from students and parents over the years. This is why I consider CLS my stress free environment.

KATIE IVANOFF SMITH

4th grade Language Arts Teacher

Your family. Husband, Eric Latin Assistant Athletic Director, and Varsity Girls’ basketball coach Daughter, Annie Latin 10th grader Son, Nick Latin 8th grader dogs, Rosie and Lily.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Love to support my students at their outside-of-school events Running, walking my dogs, tennis, pickleball, spending time with family and friends, taking my parents to sporting events, doing puzzles.

What is your favorite family vacation? Beach trips with my family including my parents and my sister’s family. We like to play beach games like Tidal Ball, bocce golf, and cornhole.

What is your favorite kind of food? Salads with grilled chicken or salmon.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory meeting my husband at Dr. Fox’s retirement party.

What is something we might not know about you?

I have been scuba diving in Hawaii and have been on the Educators’ Outward Bound trip and survived both!

What is your favorite movie / TV show? Davidson and UNC basketball.

What do you love most about Latin?

Latin is my home away from home. I am so grateful to work with such amazing educators. The support from my colleagues is outstanding. The children bring magic and excitement to my classroom each day; no two days are the same and that makes this job so much fun!

EPHRAIM AKIHOLA

Custodian/Bus driver

Your family. Wife Ruth Three children: Blessing, 18 Godwin, 16 Rebecca, 12

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Jogging.

What is your favorite family vacation? Beach every summer.

What is your favorite kind of food? Rice and bean with fried plantains.

What is something we might not know about you? Used to play scrabble almost everyday and sometimes all day long. Was member of Campus Crusade for Christ for almost 13 years.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? 24.

What do you love most about Latin? It feels life family.

BETH EASTRIDGE

Lower School Teacher-4th Grade

Your family.

Husband- Jade Daughter- Sarah, Class of 2020 Son- Bennett, Class of 2022.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

I love cooking and often spend Sunday afternoons cooking for family or friends. I also love diving into a good book on a rainy day or while sitting on the beach.

What is your favorite family vacation?

Spending time at the beach with my family is the best vacation.

What is your favorite kind of food?

Italian.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

Watching my children grow up here at Latin is my special memory. Seeing them with their friends or just walking across campus always filled my heart.

What is something we might not know about you?

Growing up in the Northeast, I was an avid skier. You could find me on the slopes of New York or Vermont on weekends, holidays, and even some evenings. I loved skiing so much that I became a ski instructor as well.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Currently, my favorite shows are Yellowstone, Jack Ryan, and The White Lotus.

What do you love most about Latin?

I couldn’t do what I do without amazing colleagues here at Latin. Whether traveling for Professional Development, working on a committee, or planning with my team, my colleagues are the best part of Latin.

ALICIA LONG

Director of Performing Arts

Your family. David, Dylan (2023 Latin graduate, Aidan (class of 2025), Rosie the goldendoodle.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Exercise and the outdoors, especially the beach. I also prioritize friendships and spending time with others.

What is your favorite family vacation? I always love the beach, but have also enjoyed road trips to see new cities.

What is your favorite kind of food? Cheese!

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

Every Grandparents’ Day is very special to me. I love performing and I love seeing the joy and excitement on our students’ faces. This year, both of my boys were on the varsity soccer team together. It was the first time ever they played on the same team and it was very special to me.

What is something we might not know about you? I can sew!

What is your favorite movie / TV show? The Crown.

What do you love most about Latin? The people--the faculty, students, and parents--many of whom have become lifelong friends.

HEATHER MASSENGALE SHAW

TK Teacher

Your family. Ashley-husband Bradley-son Blakely-daughter Pets: Cocoa Bug the dachshund and Casey Bug the coonhound.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Racquet sports: Tennis, Paddle, Pickle Spending time at the lake.

What is your favorite family vacation? Holden Beach, NC.

What is your favorite kind of food? Thai.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

I’ve been here so long! It’s not really a memory, but I love to tell people that I work at the same school I attended as a child and that my children are students there too. In an ever changing and somewhat transient world, it’s fun to have a history like that.

What is something we might not know about you? I’m an only child.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

I don’t watch TV, really. I watch NCIS LA with my kids.

What do you love most about Latin? The people and the beautiful campus!

RICHARD SMALLS JR.

Custodian

for the SAC GYM and Bus Driver Your family. My wife’s name is Cheryl, my daughter name is Ashley-Laren.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Only one watching America’s one and only Team HEEEE HAAAA How about those COWBOY’S.

What is your favorite family vacation? Any and all getaway’s with the family.

What is your favorite kind of food? Soul Food.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory Every day that Jesus blesses me with life and I’m here.

What is something we might not know about you?

I came to Latin only to do a 90 day temp assignment and now I’m on my 15th year now. WOW.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? Strictly Business and Book of Eli among others.

What do you love most about Latin?

I love the closeness, the friends i’ve come to know as well as some of the kids who have ridden on the bus and having them to come back and say hello.

SUE TENKIN Kindergarten Assistant Teacher

Your family. Chris, husband of 28 years; Son, Zach 25 (works as a Financial Consultant here in Charlotte); Daughter, Allie 22 (graduated May 2023 with a BS Degree in Public Health).

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Walking, talking, eating, and traveling with family and friends.

What is your favorite family vacation? The beach!

What is your favorite kind of food? Ice Cream!

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

For me, it’s always been the people; the faculty, staff, and students. I enjoy being a part of it everyday!

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Movie: Pretty Woman TV: Currently, Love It or List It However, my guilty pleasure is The Housewives of Beverly Hills.

What do you love most about Latin?

Working with Tammi Rogers!

ANN BROCK

Director of Leadership Development

Your family.

I am a newlywed- recently married Harlan Prater!! Together, we have 3 daughters and a son: Catherine, Florence, Lucy and Thompson. Thompson and his wife, Emily, just made us grandparents to baby James. This year, Lucy and Flo will both get married.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Reading, traveling, hiking, and learning to play golf.

What is your favorite family vacation?

We took the entire clan to California for a week last Christmas. It was magical!

What is your favorite kind of food?

Dessert! :)

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

Too many to list!

What is something we might not know about you?

I am a night owl!

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Right now, it’s Ted Lasso.

What do you love most about Latin?

As much as I adore the students and teaching and our gorgeous campus (and I really do love all of those things!!), I work with the very best team EVER. They are amazing humans and talented colleagues and we would all do anything for one another.

MATT COSPER

Upper School Director of Theatre,

Humanities Teacher Your family. Wife: Kadey Cat: Koroviev

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Hiking, Cooking, Reading, Traveling.

What is your favorite family vacation? Christmas in Rome

What is your favorite kind of food? Mexican

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

Opening Night of Bright Star, during intermission people approached me horrified by the cliffhanger ending of Act One. I loved it!

What is something we might not know about you? I have a deathly fear of doing Karaoke.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? Raising Arizona.

What do you love most about Latin? The people I get to work with are truly remarkable.

WHITNEY DUQUETTE

Upper School History Teacher, Student Council sponsor, Girl Up sponsor, Honor Council representative, US DEI Committee, 9th Grade Advisor

Your family.

Husband - David Duquette Daughter - Sadie Jane Duquette (5) Son - Walker Duquette (1 in April).

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? I like to read, go for walks, and visit with family and friends.

What is your favorite family vacation? Spending time at our family home on Cape Cod.

What is your favorite kind of food? Pasta.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory Co-leading a CLS trip to Italy for a group of amazing students.

What is something we might not know about you? I grew up at a boarding school.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? Chef’s Table.

What do you love most about Latin? Having my kids in the Nest and my History Department colleagues

TOPHER GEE

Upper School Science Teacher, Assistant

Varsity Track and Field Coach, Gender and Sexuality Alliance Advisor, Upper School Diversity Committee Member

Your family. Wife: Kathleen Holtzman Children: Jesse, Evan, Emily Faith, and Ethan The reason I have to take walks in the cold and rain: Hushpuppy

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

I enjoy creative writing, reading, running, and doing yard work.

What is your favorite family vacation?

Any vacation spending time with family is a favorite.

What is your favorite kind of food?

I enjoy cooking my own food and I enjoy trying new dishes. Most things that are spicy appeal to me.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

The Outward Bound trip with Charisse and Mary Ellen remains a favorite memory. Acorns forever! Getting pulled into a backroom by a US Customs agent when returning with students from a Guatemala trip, while not a favorite memory, remains memorable. Being able to teach at the school that my children attend remains priceless.

What is something we might not know about you?

I have a minor planet named for me: (33462) Tophergee.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

The revamped Dr. Who series is my favorite, especially the seasons with David Tennant and Matt Smith. Severance is a close second for a TV series. Kissing Jessica Stein is a favorite movie.

What do you love most about Latin?

The community of people make up the heart of Latin for me. I celebrate what our community already is and I hold high hopes that we will continue to develop it so that it achieves its full potential.

JOHN HERRICK

Collaborative Pianist and Piano Teacher

Your family.

Michael and Annie (wonder dog).

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Gardening, reading and hiking

What is your favorite family vacation? Hiking in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate NY

What is your favorite kind of food?

Peanut butter and bananas on toasted sourdough bread

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory Playing for the upper school musicals

What is something we might not know about you? Related to Constable Joseph Herrick in the Salem Witch Trials (still doing penance...)

What is your favorite movie / TV show? All Creatures Great & Small on PBS.

What do you love most about Latin? The supportive environment for our students

KATE HUGHEY

6th grade science teacher, Citizenship teacher, MS Mosaic facilitator, MS DEI co-coordinator

Your family.

Two sons, Harrison (11) and Henry (7), two cats, Agatha (17), Autumn (2).

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Reading, walking, visiting family, going to the beach, playing with my boys, watching movies.

What is your favorite family vacation?

Legoland! I think I’m more excited to be there than my boys are. We love it there!

What is your favorite kind of food?

I love most foods! Some favorites are Indian, Japanese, Thai, and Mexican.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

My favorite Charlotte Latin memory is being in Argentina with five other amazing colleagues who became friends. Kelly Willis, Maggie Shamblin, Megan Rinehart, B. Lee McGarry, and Alicia Long. We made wonderful connections with our sister school and had deep and thoughtful conversations about all kinds of topics. I will always treasure that time.

What is something we might not know about you?

I was part of a Canadian reality TV show called Tall Ship Chronicles.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

I love The Great British Baking Show and other low-stakes competitions where people are actually nice to each other.

What do you love most about Latin?

The people! I have wonderful colleagues who care deeply about their professions, their students, and the work that we do together.

TAMMI ROGERS

Kindergarten Teacher, 8th grade girls basketball coach

Your family.

Husband Rich Daughters- Erin, Kathleen and Meghan.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Spending time with my family and exercising.

What is your favorite family vacation? Beach.

What is your favorite kind of food? Mexican.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

My class was sitting on the carpet listening to a story at the end of the day. All of a sudden we heard a phone. One of my students reached into their tote bag and pulled out a cell phone. It was his mom reminding him that he was going to carpool because he had a playdate.

What is something we might not know about you? I can still do a cartwheel. :)

What do you love most about Latin? My team and my students!

WILLIAM STRIKLAND

Fields Maintenance

Your family. Married to Karmen Strickland since 1999. 2 Children: Jordan (22yo), Jillian (19yo). 2 dogs Honey and Jack both 11yo.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Spending time near water, whether the lake or the beach. Enjoys watching all sports.

What is your favorite family vacation?

Spending time with extended family on the gulf side of Florida; watching the sunset into the ocean.

What is your favorite kind of food?

Blackened Salmon from the Cajun Yard Dog.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Movie: The Patriot TV shows: anything on ESPN

What do you love most about Latin? The people I have the privilege to interact with on a daily basis; the staff, our team, the kids and parents.

LUCY SMITH

Associate Director of College Counseling

Your family.

Husband - Tony; Children - Sophia (10) and Aleena (8); Pets - Dill and Pickles (cats).

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Exercise, baking/cooking, reading, dancing, travel.

What is your favorite family vacation?

My family and I go to Rehoboth Beach, DE every summer, and I love that time together. Watching my girls grow and play together makes for special memories. In July 2022, my mom and I went to London together. She came with me on college visits, and together we toured an amazing city. It was extra special because it was the one year anniversary of my father’s passing, so it was nice to be together for that.

What is your favorite kind of food?

Asian (especially Japanese and Thai), but also anything I get to bake with my daughters.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

I have met so many great friends and have gotten to know a lot of awesome Latin families. Any memory that involves seeing my daughters on campus tops my list. And recently, I have loved spending time with my Upper School compadres during the outings that Jeremy Frye has organized for us, like bowling and putt-putt.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

My favorite series are Grey’s Anatomy and Abbott Elementary, but I also watch trashy TV like Real Housewives and Love is Blind.

What do you love most about Latin?

The family environment. I love seeing my kids on campus, and making great friends in lots of different areas of campus.

RIVES WEDDING Learning Resource Teacher

Your family.

Matt Wedding is my husband; I have 3 children, Samantha, Alex and Abigail; Tuck, our furry friend, joined our family in 2021.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

I love baking and working out. The actual order is I work out so I can bake (and eat!).

What is your favorite family vacation?

Any beach that has an umbrella, chair and my family.

What is your favorite kind of food? I love it all!!

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

Each of my children’s graduation was special.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Big Bang Theory is my bedtime story each night!

What do you love most about Latin? The people and the place it holds in my family.

JULIANA ALEXANDER

Hawks’ Club Teacher Lead

Your family. Randy Alexander spouse Romany Alexander step-daughter Rafaela Alexander daughter

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Love spending time with family at Charlotte FC games.

What is your favorite family vacation?

We went to my native country Colombia and spent 10 days touring around and introducing my husband and daughter to my culture.

What is your favorite kind of food?

Love all kind of food but Colombian food is my first option.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

Celebrating my pregnancy announcement with co-workers and parents. It was very special time and a great memory to share with my daughter.

What is something we might not know about you?

My husband I used to go rock climbing at Crowders Mountains many many years ago.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Friends will never get old for me

What do you love most about Latin?

I love the caring and loving community Latin can be with staff members and families.

DEBI BERRY

3rd grade teacher assistant

Your family.

Nick is my husband. I have twin 15 year old boys, Connor and Landon, and a 9 year old girl named Grace. We have a Great Pyrenees named Yogi.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Our family loves to spend time in Boone, NC hiking and snow skiing.

What is your favorite family vacation?

Our family loves vacationing with extended family. We alternate going to the Outer Banks and Siesta Key.

What is your favorite kind of food?

Seafood

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

My favorite Latin memory is the first Holiday Sing I attended. I loved singing carols with all the students and especially enjoyed singing We Wish You a Merry Christmas from the front of the auditorium. It is such a fun tradition!

What is something we might not know about you?

I moved from Cincinnati to Charlotte without knowing anyone. I moved here specifically to teach at an economically disadvantaged school.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Anything on Bravo.

What do you love most about Latin?

The community and culture. It truly is a wonderful place to work. I enjoy coming to school each day to see the smiling faces of all the students. It’s always fun to see former students in the hallway and see how they have grown over the years.

CURTIS BOWERS

Safety & Security

Your family. Wife is Jane, daughter is Caroline.

What is your favorite kind of food? American. Burgers & BBQ.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory When I retired from the CMPD and Latin offered me a job.

What is something we might not know about you? That I used to race motorcycles.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? The Andy Griffith Show.

What do you love most about Latin? The sense of community & family here.

KELLY BROWN

TK assistant, sub nest and hawks club, art enrichments Your family. Rick, married 27 years Meghan, NC Stare, CMU graduate school Lily, Chapel Hill and member of National Guard Tyler CPCC (children).

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Art, reading, hiking.

What is your favorite family vacation? Any beach trip.

What is your favorite kind of food? Mexican.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory Every day learning with little people.

What is something we might not know about you? My middle daughter is Chinese.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? Comedy.

What do you love most about Latin? Sense of community.

MARK BRUNTON

US History teacher and assistant boys

middle school soccer coach

Your family.

13 year old daughter Colette and two dogs, Oscar and Louie.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Painting, woodworking, canoeing, biking, and camping.

What is your favorite family vacation?

Taking my daughter up to Ohio to see the family during the summer and Christmas breaks.

What is your favorite kind of food? Everything, except icing.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

Every time students say ‘thank you’ when they leave class. I tell teachers from other schools about that tradition and they can’t believe it.

What is something we might not know about you?

I have won awards for my painting and woodworking.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

TV show is M*A*S*H and favorite movie is Raiders of the Lost Ark.

What do you love most about Latin?

The freedom to learn, teach, and colaborate.

TIM CREAMER

Assistant Director of Leadership Development

Your family.

My wife’s name is Stacy. I have three boys - Andrew (24), T.J. (19), and Jake (17). We have two big, long black cats named Max and June.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

I enjoy hiking, playing fantasy baseball/football, watching the Red Sox, and going to the beach with my wife Stacy.

What is your favorite family vacation?

My favorite family vacation is when all of my children are under the same roof with me and my wife anywhere in the world :)

What is your favorite kind of food?

Great seafood from coastal New England.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

My favorite memory was in the spring of 2021 - watching my freshman son pitch 5+ innings in relief during the CLS Varsity Baseball Team’s victory on Senior Night.

What is something we might not know about you?

Over the course of 9 years, my oldest son Andrew and I climbed all forty-eight 4,000foot mountains in New Hampshire.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Red Sox Baseball on NESN/MLB.TV

What do you love most about Latin?

You will not find another school where students feel as comfortable as they do at CLS. When students are comfortable, they can do great things.

DREW DAYTON

PE Faculty, Assistant JV/Varsity Football

and Head MS Softball Coach

Your family.

Wife: Laura Children: Wyatt (12), Nola (10), Aaron (8) Pets: Bennett (Golden Retriever) Birdie (Rescue Mutt) Beastie & Zelda (Cats) Flopsy (Holland Lop-eared Bunny)

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Golf, Foodie, Beach Bum (Seabrooke, SC), Inshore Fishing

What is your favorite family vacation?

Family trip to Costa Rica this year, but usually to our places in Deltaville, VA or Seabrook, SC.

What is your favorite kind of food? My wife’s homemade carrot cake.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

’22 MS Softball coming from behind 9-3 to beat Lake Norman Charter 12-9 to advance to the championship game and beating Christian on a last second field goal in ’21.

What is something we might not know about you?

I worked as a Financial and Retirement planner prior to coming to Charlotte Latin.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? For Love of the Game / Yellowstone.

What do you love most about Latin? The students

NIDHIE DHIMAN Leadership Development Assistant, Innovation & Design Teacher

Your family.

Spouse: Parshant Dhiman Child: Sejal Kavi Dhiman Pet: Bella (5 year old Coton de Tulear).

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Dancing, beginner tennis, anything arts and crafts type.

What is your favorite family vacation? Getting back home to visit family in Austin, Texas! Luckily, we get to go multiple times a year!

What is your favorite kind of food? Mexican! Tacos make everything better!

What is something we might not know about you? Back in high school/college, I was on a competitive (intramural) Bollywood/HipHop fusion dance team!

What is your favorite movie / TV show? Way too many to pick just one! I love mystery, thriller, who-done-it types of movies and shows!

What do you love most about Latin?

I know it’s cliche, but I truly admire the people I work with - both colleagues and students. The teams I work on are supportive and do everything they can to help me succeed! And my students...well...I believe when I was asked to teach 6th grade, I said absolutely not! There is no way I’m teaching in Middle School. How wrong I was! These kids are wonderful and I have found my “little” people!

LAURI DRAGELIN

Hawks’ Club teacher with Enrichment program TKK-5th grades

Your family. Husband is Tim 3 grown children who are Latin alums - Alec (2011), Hope (2015), and Amy (2019).

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Running Cycling Reading Long walks with my 2 dogs Summertime on Lake Tillery Any time I can get with my children now that they all live in different cities!

What is your favorite family vacation?

Beach Lake Tillery where we have a home

What is your favorite kind of food? Salads and pizza!

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

End of year Hawkspies when our student athletes are recognized and celebrated. Sports are very important in my family, and I love that we have a school where all students can be a member of a sports team. Sports are critical in so many developmental ways for teens, as teamwork, collaboration, support, and working through challenges and conflicts are part of adulthood. Learning these lessons within sports is excellent practice for a successful life after high school.

What is something we might not know about you?

I do not like to read novels! I only read non- fiction.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Princess Bride or The Adventures of Walter Mitty

What do you love most about Latin?

I work with a wonderful group of ladies (and Mr. G.!) We support each other and enjoy each other!!

TANYA KELLAR

Director of Finance

Your family. Husband - Greg, Daughter- Reagan, Son- Deklen and 2 dogs- Lucy and Charlie.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Reading, Hiking and anything outdoors

What is your favorite family vacation?

It’s probably a tie between a week at the beach relaxing and taking the kids to Disney.

What is your favorite kind of food? Thai food! Sushi is a close second.

What is something we might not know about you? I grew up on a bison farm.

LAURA KORKOWSKI

MS Math Teacher, 7th Grade Team Lead

Your family.

Erik - Husband Alex - Son (rising 9th grade) EmmaDaughter (rising 7th grade) Dakota and Hayley - dogs.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Running Marathons Watching/Coaching Soccer Traveling (Skiing).

What is your favorite family vacation? Skiing, Cruising the world.

What is your favorite kind of food? Sushi.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

When I found out my best friend, Wendy, was hired to be able to teach in the same school and division. Everyday where I see her on campus brings a big smile to my face!

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Law & Order SVU, Survivor, Amazing Race and Hell’s Kitchen.

What is something we might not know about you?

Cooking is not my favorite but i make a pretty solid chicken pot pie.

What do you love most about Latin?

I love getting to see my old and new students around every corner of campus and hearing them call my name. It makes me feel right at home.

EMILY LONG

Head Librarian

Your family. Husband Tim, daughter Delaney and cat Chevy.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Reading, puzzles.

What is your favorite family vacation? Hilton Head.

What is your favorite kind of food? Italian.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory Celebrating Christmas with the Library team.

What is something we might not know about you? I know many of our students from storytime at the public library when they were babies or toddlers.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? Luther, any BBC mysteries

What do you love most about Latin? The sense of team

POWELL PAGUIBITAN

AP Psych Teacher/ Mental Skills Coach/ ASA & Project Happiness faculty advisor

Your family.

My family includes my wife Ann Marie and my dog Tikka.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

Exercising & Running, Watching the Atlanta Falcons blow leads, Hiking, Playing soccer with my dog, Reading journal articles, Taking surprise trips with my wife.

What is your favorite family vacation?

Hiking in Peru to Machu Picchu was a magical experience.

What is your favorite kind of food?

While I have not met a food I won’t try, I can rarely pass up pizza.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

Laughing with my office mates about how we can win one of the Flemmies.

What is something we might not know about you?

I used to own a landscaping business. I still spend about 3 hours a week making sure my own lawn is up to professional standards.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

Community - for the meta-humor. The Good Place- for the philosophy. Ted Lasso- for the psychology. The Wire- for the sociology.

What do you love most about Latin?

My coworkers are not just good colleagues, but also good friends.

JASON PARKER

US French, RPG Club Advisor, French Club Advisor

Your family. Wife, Christy, Daughter, Dorothy, Son, Declan.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school? Tabletop RPGs, Baking, Film, Hunting, Fishing, Camping, Whitewater Canoeing, Gaming.

What is your favorite family vacation? Visiting our camp in Maine.

What is your favorite kind of food? Yes

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory The Flemmys.

What is something we might not know about you? I haven’t been clean-shaven since 1998.

What is your favorite movie / TV show? Highlander.

What do you love most about Latin? My colleagues

SUZANNE ROBARDS

Middle School Learning Resource teacher

Your family.

My husband, James, works in the Business Department at Latin. My son, Garrett 28, is engaged and getting married in June. He and my daughter, Addie 25, both live in Greenville, SC. Garrett is a CPA, and Addie teaches fourth grade. We have a rescue dog named Scout.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

I love to read, cook, travel and run! This year I’ve enjoyed running two half marathons with my daughter and future daughter in law,

What is your favorite family vacation?

My favorite family vacation was our trip last summer to Greece and Croatia. Everything about the trip- the beautiful sunsets, the sites, the food, the experiences and the people we met along the way made for a fantastic trip full of very special memories!

What is your favorite kind of food? Anything coffee! I love coffee ice cream!

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

My favorite Charlotte Latin memory was way back in 1973 when I was actually a third grade student at Latin in Mrs. Owen’s class. Our classroom was a trailer on the playground because we were a completely new class that had been added to the third grade that year. We had so much fun learning in that trailer! I remember that we threw Mrs. Owen a “surprise” birthday party in the trailer one afternoon. She was so thrilled and we were all so excited that we had surprised her. That whole year was extra special!

What is something we might not know about you?

I was born in Fort Huachuca, Arizona on an army base. We moved to Charlotte when I was a year old, and I’ve lived here ever since!

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

My favorite movie is What’s Up Doc? I’ve seen it more times than I can count, and can quote many of the lines, and yet it still cracks me up!

What do you love most about Latin?

I love the family feel of Latin. I love that I was able to watch my children experience the same love for their teachers and love for learning that had when I was at Latin. I love working with colleagues who encourage me daily, and I love watching my Middle School students grow into successful young adults.

SANDY ROSENBERG

Learning Resources, Middle School

Your family.

I’ve been married 44 years to Alan and we have three children - Alison, Courtney and Kevin. We also have three grandchildren - Jonah, Mina, Remi.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

I enjoy cooking, reading, working out and knitting.

What is your favorite family vacation?

My favorite family vacation is spending time at the beach.

What is your favorite kind of food?

I love all kinds of food and I’m open to trying new foods.

What is something we might not know about you?

I taught myself how to quilt and I’ve made quilts for my grandchildren.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

I love to watch documentaries and crime thrillers.

What do you love most about Latin?

I love the ability to form one-on-one relationships with my students.

LORI QUATTLEBAUM

Lower School Learning Resources Teacher

Your family.

Husband- Gerald 4 children- Reid (23), Evan (22), Libby (19), Katie (16) 2 dogs- Raleigh and Tilly.

What are your hobbies / interest outside of school?

I love to travel. I enjoy planning trips and adventures almost as much as the trips themselves. Fortunately, my family is always up for an adventure and we have created amazing memories.

What is your favorite family vacation?

My favorite family vacation always seems to be the most recent one. We went to Paris over Thanksgiving as a family and had a wonderful time.

What is your favorite kind of food?

Italian food with a big glass of red wine and bread.

Describe your favorite Charlotte Latin memory

I have so many fun memories with the first grade team and I cherish the 3 years I had with them. My most recent fantastic memory is a trip to San Antonio with my current amazing LR team for a conference. We learned so much and had so much fun together.

What is something we might not know about you?

I was on the dance team in college.

What is your favorite movie / TV show?

My favorite TV show of all time is Homeland, followed closely by Outlander

What do you love most about Latin?

I love the family feel at Latin and have really enjoyed working with my colleagues.

Goodbye to Our Retirees

Mary Gibson LS Grade 3 Teacher

19 Years

Hunter Murphy Upper School

28 Years

Dick Sipperly Assistant Athletic Director and  Varsity Boys’ Lacrosse Head Coach

19 Years

Margaret Sigmon Director of Learning Resources

7 Years

CRITERIA FOR SERVICE RECOGNITION

All members of the Charlotte Latin School staff working a minimum of 20 hours per week are recognized in five-year increments beginning with five years.

For the purpose of this program, the year commences in September and includes anyone who is in the employ of the school no later than January 31 of the following year. Staff members commencing employment after January 31 will become eligible for recognition the following school year.

In the event that an interruption in service occurs, total years of service are cumulated. Years spent on leave or outside the employ of the school shall not be included in the total. Excepted from this and qualifying for inclusion in years of service are: sabbatical, exchange program, and/or other school-sanctioned programs.

HONOREE GIFTS

35 Years

Oil Painting

30 Years

Crystal Bowl

25 Years

Pewter Tray

20 Years

Captain’s Chair

15 Years

Decanter Set

10 Years

Rosewood Box

5 Years

Coaster

Artwork by Athena Woodward ’25