Spring 2020 Latin Magazine

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What a difference a year makes: Seniors 2020

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES

The Class of 2020 was always going to be different. Born during a time of National Tragedy (9/11 and its aftermath), they now face a different challenge as a worldwide pandemic has brought the curtain down on what should have been a normal, much celebrated senior year in high school. They could choose to focus on the things, the events, that they will miss; however, that does not do justice to the spirit of the Class of 2020. This is a class where different rather than normal is embraced. The Class of 2020 understands that there is nothing wrong with different — it opens up a whole new lens through which to view the world. And if ever there was a Charlotte Latin class whose spirit was willing to focus on the gains rather than the losses inherent in our new reality, it’s the Class of 2020. Throughout this year, they have drawn on the wonderful relationships they have built during their time at Latin, relationships forged on the playground, the sports field, the stage, and in the classrooms of a school that has embraced them individually and collectively. This class has an ebullient spirit marked by a sense of camaraderie that extends past cliques and teams. This class cheers for one another, in accomplishments great and small. This class laughs with one another, and most importantly, this class supports one another. So while they may not have had the Spring Break or the senior prom as they had originally envisioned, they do have each other, and a Latin community that celebrates the resilience, the strength of character, the love of life, and the determination to find joy in challenging times. Latin prides itself on developing leaders, and the Class of 2020 has proven that it leads our students in both the good times and the bad, as true leaders are wont to do. We celebrate 50 years of Latin and the Class of 2020 with gratitude, love, and respect. – Tracey Vanneste and Jim Bean, Senior Class Advisers

Class of 2020

704.846.1100 www.charlottelatin.org

LATIN

MAGAZINE

9502 Providence Road Charlotte, NC 28277-8695

Spring 2020 • Charlotte Latin School

Congratulations to the Class of 2020

Abigail Rose Adams Caitlin Judith Ahearn Olivia Anne Aldridge Katherine Mawer Aljian Dilan Rit Amin William Thomas Atwell Carter Anne Barlow Anna Stewart Barnhardt Sophia Raja Bellavia Adel Miriam Berhe Ryan Joseph Bonner Dolan Richard Brasser Virginia Reid Brownlow Raegan McKenzie Burrell Gabrielle Ann Cacheris Stephanie Marie Caddell McCain Joseph Carpenter John Thomas Cashion Zoe Hamilton Claytor John Grayson Clements Audrey Sharon Cobb Elizabeth Bailey Cobb-Curtis Gabriella Grace Colombo Emma Winslow Conley Daniel Leonardo Cunnane Conner Milburn Davant Jackson Colson Davis John Kenneth Davis Dominick Michael DePaola III Andrew Bradley DeWeese Alexis Michel André Delobelle Charlotte Fletcher Denny

Daniel Menna Derraik Marion Thompson Donald Sarah Ann Eastridge Jackson Christopher Edwards Catalina Eva Erwin John Luke Farah David Louis Felkner Cassandra Diane Figueroa Brooks Scholl Finby Thomas Michael Finke, Jr. Lauren Mercer Foley Emma Marie Gatrell Michael Bruce Giftos Samantha Abby Gitlin Harrison Campbell Grams William Tyler Gray August Arthur Haldeman Alexander Barnes Hall Emily Kathleen Harris Elizabeth Cooke Helweg David William Hendrick, Jr. Taylor Alex Henry Michael Worth Hinshaw III Robert Bradham Hull Gabrielle Grace Johnson Randy Lovell Johnson Thea Elisabet Karlsson Ana Theresa Kenefick Sara Grace Kenefick Blake William Kiefer Emma Elizabeth Landry Lauren Sinclair Langley

Alexander Michael Lapuente Andrew James Lewis Jakob Tyler Lucas Matthew Aaron Mackey William Connor Mackey Adam Harrison Manuel Isabela Raizel Marcus Abigail Claire Matthews Benjamin Dean McCarter James Beatty Meanor III Assem Barlykovna Mendygaziyeva Sean Michael Minnig Evan Antony Mitchell Dawson Thomas Nash Isabella Grace Nashbar Julia Louise Nielsen Brooke Alysse Norman Paige Ellen Nurkin Franceen Nana Obeng Christopher Lee Oster Laura Abigail Owens Braden Kent Panther Evelyn Grace Peters Delaney Marie Phillips Luke David Picciola Mary Catherine Pope Nicole Morgan Reinhardt Grace Stanton Reynolds Andrew Keith Robelen Christopher Daniel Saba Victoria Sagasta Pereira

Matthew James Schwarz Spencer Davis Sharrett William Bryce Sharrett Samuel Scott Shumate, Jr. Kendall Grace Slayton Joseph Henry Smith Michael Bennett Smith Anna Katelyn Snyder Isabelle Camryn Song Katherine Murphy Stenersen Carter Thomas Stockwell Tiana Rae Sullivan Andrew Thomas Sumichrast Morgan Elisabeth Swiler Maxine Joanna Marcelo Tan Lane Woodall Tayloe Charles Verbeck Thigpen Charles Payne Thrift John Maher Tierney Austin Carrol Tolber, Jr. Isabella Sol Troni Virginia Paige Troutman Kai Marcus Vincent Charles Angus Watson Sarah English Watson Mason Christine Wellons Emily Kemp White Jackson Pierce Willett Wesley Graham Wise Thomas Porter Young Laura Catherine Zielinski


ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM

Charles D. Baldecchi Head of School

Fredrik Akerblom Director of Development Todd Ballaban Head of Middle School Susan Carpenter Director of Marketing and Communications Rod Chamberlain Associate Head for Academic Affairs Bill Freitas Chief Technology Officer David Gatoux Director of Athletics Fletcher H. Gregory III Associate Head and Chief Financial Officer Beth Lucas Director of Human Resources Mary Yorke Oates ’83 Director of Admissions Mark Tayloe Head of Lower School Sonja L. Taylor Director of Diversity and Inclusion Lawrence Wall Head of Upper School

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Thad M. Sharrett ’89, Chair Denny S. O’Leary ’90, Vice Chair Joycelyn C. Lavelle, Secretary R. Mitchell Wickham ’87, Treasurer William C. Adams Lynn G. Crutchfield Mary Katherine Dubose Adaora A. Eruchalu Debbie S. Frail ’88 Mike D. Freno Rael K. Gorelick Jonathan S. Halkyard Courtney P. Hyder Joy M. Kenefick Eric J. Lloyd Karim Lokas John T. McCoy A. Coy Monk IV John G. Norman Robert A. Schleusner III Walker C. Simmons

EX-OFFICIO

Charles D. Baldecchi Head of School Fletcher H. Gregory III Associate Head and Chief Financial Officer Lisa Hill Parents’ Council President Chrissy Hunter Lucas ’04 Alumni Governing Board President

LATIN

MAGAZINE

2019–2020 SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

Charlotte Latin School • Spring 2020

EDITOR Courtney Oates Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications ASSOCIATE EDITOR Susan Carpenter Director of Marketing and Communications DESIGNER Tori Belle-Miller Graphic Designer CONTRIBUTORS Fredrik Akerblom Director of Development Erin Baldecchi CLS Parent Claudette Hall Former Head of Lower School Richard Harris CLS English Teacher Kelly Katterhagen CLS Parent of Alumni Bob Knight Founding Trustee

ALUMNI GOVERNING BOARD OFFICERS

Chrissy Hunter Lucas ’04, President Michael Parks ’07, Past President

PARENTS’ COUNCIL OFFICERS

Lisa Hill, President Tara Livingston, First Vice President Katharine Cowan, Second Vice President Karen Cotchett, Treasurer Kim Hanson, Assistant Treasurer Kristin Middendorf, Secretary

BOOSTER CLUB BOARD

Kendria Sweet, President Kristin Middendorf, President-Elect Susan Calton, Treasurer Blair Donald, Secretary

LATIN ARTS ASSOCIATION BOARD

Gigi Egge, President Vivi Bechtler-Smith, First Vice President Jan Johnson, Second Vice President Liz Tarumianz, Secretary Leslie Wickham, Treasurer Aileen Boltz, Membership Kim Cobb and Lori Samii, Publicity Harriet Stamatakos, Friends of Creative Writing Gina Lawrence, Friends of Music Jennifer Youse, Friends of Theater Kathleen Holtzman, Friends of Visual Arts

At-large Representatives Shannon Acks Renee Hobart Abbe McCracken Sally Roper Nancy Stenersen Erin Stubbs Elissa Vona Alexa Warner Wendy Wasko

Published Spring 2020 by Charlotte Latin School for students, alumni, parents, grandparents, employees, and friends of the school. Please send address corrections to: Development Office Charlotte Latin School 9502 Providence Road Charlotte, NC 28277 Or by email to vrucker@charlottelatin.org Photography by Rusty Williams and St. John Photography


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WHAT’S INSIDE

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Head of School Year in Review

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Learn@Latin Campaign Update Celebrate Latin Alumni News Class Notes An Idea Turned Reality Saves Lives Latin in the Next 50 Years

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About the cover: Each year, as our senior class embarks on its class retreat and their final year of high school, the students gather in Anna’s Garden to achieve what some might see as the impossible. 127 students together in one place, dressed the same, and all looking at and smiling for the camera. Said camera is operated year after year by Wayne St. John of St. John Photography atop a death-defying 10’ tall A-frame ladder. We celebrate this Class of 2020 and the hurdles each of its members jumped to transcend a spring season they did not anticipate, yet one in which they shone.


FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

FOREVER FORWARD FOREVER LATIN A Reflection on My First Year One of my first yard chores, after we moved in this summer, was putting up our 50th Anniversary yard sign. Before hammering it in through the fresh mulch, I took a moment to study the logo. I have been a part of several school anniversary celebrations throughout my life. My former school in Lexington celebrated its 50th while I was Head, and The Asheville School had its 100th while I was a teacher. I earned my master’s during St. John’s 300th year, and I was in Episcopal’s 150th graduating class. I consider myself a connoisseur of milestone logos. I must admit when I first read the tagline for Latin’s 50th year, I thought it was catchy. Obviously, it helps that the L in Latin and the Roman numeral for 50 work together beautifully. The iconic column that gives the Latin L its strength sends a message of tradition and longevity — perfect for a 50th Anniversary. Although the tagline was catchy, “Forever Forward. Forever Latin,” it did not carry much meaning for me last summer. As a new Head of School with no history, they were merely words.

What a difference a year makes. Especially this 50th year. I write this reflection on a beautiful spring day from the sunroom in my home. Outside, it is a balmy 80 degrees, with a light breeze — beautiful — except like all Charlotteans, I am respecting the “shelter in place” order of the governor and the mayor. Spring Break is over, but instead of walking around campus watching soccer, tennis, and lacrosse balls fly by, or watching our Lower School students rehearse songs for Grandparents’ Day, I’m at home. Instead of sending off our debate team to a competition, or attending Parents’ Council meetings and events, I am contemplating silence.

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LATIN Magazine • Spring 2020

Chuck Baldecchi

What a difference a year makes. Our juniors and seniors aren’t working up the nerve to ask that crush to prom. Instead, they are hoping against hope that the ban is lifted in time to experience One Acts, College T-shirt Day, or Concert in the Quad — in person instead of virtually. Do we even dare talk about the reality of Commencement?

Chuck Baldecchi, Bob Knight, and Fletcher Gregory

What a difference a year makes. Founders Day seems like it was 50 years ago. What an introduction to Latin’s spirit! We welcomed back all who were in attendance that day of promise 50 years ago when Charlotte Latin School opened its doors. Stories abounded about the school’s humble roots. As Bob Knight likes to recall, “It rained that day, September 9, 1970. Campus was a bald hill of red clay and it was messy, but it was our hill, and the mess of red clay meant progress!” That day, the school was a field of dreams. Dreams of a future. Other stories were also being told. Stories


FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

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3 1. The Inlustrate Orbem Building opened at the beginning of the school year. 2. Middle School students welcomed Mr. Baldecchi on the first day of the 2019-20 school year. 3. More than 1,200 alumni, former and current faculty, trustees, and parents attended the Oyster Roast in November 2019. 4. On September 27, 2019, Mr. Lawrence Wall, Head of Upper School, cut the ribbon on the Inlustrate Orbem Building during the dedication ceremony.

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FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Head of School, Chuck Baldecchi, visits Mrs. Brock’s Leadership Class.

of libraries, theaters, and gymnasiums being built; land being purchased; grit and determination. There was also pride in alumni voices — as there should be. Look at Latin today. A shiny new Inlustrate Orbem Building sending “light into the world!” One hundred and twenty-eight acres of campus. What was once a fledgling school “out in the boonies” is a juggernaut in the Independent School world. On September 27, Board Vice Chair Denny Smith O’Leary ’90 opened the dedication ceremony and Mr. Lawrence Wall, Head of Upper School (20 years of service), cut the ribbon on the Inlustrate Orbem Building. “CLS has always sought to cultivate the individual but not unto him or herself alone. Community has always been central to our vision,” Mr. Wall said. Also in attendance, were Mr. Fletcher Gregory (29 years of service) and Dr. Ken Collins (49 years of service) as well as many others who helped make Latin into the school it is today. The legacies of Dr. E.J. “Ned” Fox, Jr., and Mr. Arch McIntosh loomed large. Latin was moving forward because of the great work of those who served the institution in the past. That same spirit was alive the night of the Oyster Roast. More than 1,200 alumni, former and current faculty, trustees, and parents mingled with each other on a crisp November evening as sounds of The Blue Dogs wafted through the transformed Beck Student Activities Center. We are all founders of Charlotte Latin School — everyone who has been a student, taught, volunteered, paid tuition — everyone who has loved this school — is a founder of Charlotte Latin School. Every

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LATIN Magazine • Spring 2020

Chuck Baldecchi, Eric Smith, and Chuck Willis after Learn@Latin.

event during this year has evoked that spirit from the artists who sang at the Les Misérables in Concert alumni performance, to the alumni speakers at Learn@Latin and MLK assembly, to the parent volunteers who put on a record-breaking Celebrate Latin. Celebrations all during a year of celebration.

Forever Forward. Forever Latin. As I write this during the first week of April, those 50th celebrations seem so long ago. But the point is not lost on me that Latin has endured — not only endured but also flourished through good times as well as challenging ones. The stories told of yesterday are woven into the fabric of this incredible institution we all love. In recent weeks, I have seen a faculty pivot on a dime to roll out an incredible online curriculum.


FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

They were able to pivot because of the training that our Educational Technology specialists gave them. Students have been resilient and adapted to this new Remote Learning reality because their supportive families value and model a strong work ethic. Further assets include a dedicated Parents’ Council and our Board of Trustees, chaired for the first time by a Charlotte Latin alumnus, Thad Sharrett ’89. The story sounds familiar, doesn’t it? The strength of Latin today has been there from the beginning. The pride and loyalty present in the stories told on this year’s Founders Day and at the 50th Anniversary Oyster Roast will be similar to those told at our 75th and 100th. And they will include, “Remember when the school came together during the Coronavirus Pandemic in 2020?”

Head of School loves his job and wakes up every day grateful for the opportunity to lead a school community he admires and loves and understands more about every day. So getting back to the tagline on the lawn sign — now I know what it really means.

Forever Forward. Forever Latin.

Forever Forward. Forever Latin. As I walk around my neighborhood, they may be pollencovered, but Latin 50th yard signs are proudly displayed and blow in the breeze. In the fall, those signs gave this new Head of School a “heads-up” that the family in that house was part of the Latin community. It seemed like every other house had some Latin connection. Nine months ago, I did not know names or stories. Walking around today it feels different. What a difference a year makes. It feels like home. We are all in this together. This is true for both the Baldecchi family and Charlotte Latin School. My children have made friends and share common stories with their teammates and classmates. My wife, Erin, can’t think of a smoother transition or a more caring school community of which to be a part. This new

(Top right) The Baldecchis stand proudly behind their CLS 50th Anniversary yard sign. (Above) In September 2019, 40 alumni performed Les Misérables in Concert, accompanied by the Upper School Concert Choir, in Thies Auditorium.

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50TH ANNIVERSARY

L E A R N @ L AT I N <

A 50th Anniversary Event

Keynote Speaker, Nita Farahany ’94 Duke University Initiative for Science and Society Your Brain at Work: A talk about the ways that corporations are shifting from tracking movements to tracking minds in the workplace. Reflection written by Bob Knight, Founding Trustee

Bridgette Martin Hard ’97 and Nita Farahany ’94

I thoroughly enjoyed the 50th Anniversary Learn@Latin event. Dr. Farahany was fascinating and a wonderful representative of life-long learning. It was exciting for me to hear Dr. Farahany, who is a champion in her field and a respected professor at Duke University, and know that her academic foundation started at Charlotte Latin. Our goal was to be a college-preparatory institution teaching critical thinking skills — an entrenched work ethic supported by honor and integrity. Dr. Farahany represents this well, and I am proud that she started her education as a Latin hawk.

In addition, Jamey Price was outstanding. He is not only a gifted photographer but also a superb public speaker. Jamey is a natural. Mike Weiss is inspiring, well-spoken, prepared and we can always learn something from Mike. It was a wonderful morning from start to finish and one that makes me immensely proud of Latin. Many remarkable people have worked incredibly hard over these 50 years to make the school what it is today. I know all the founders would be amazed and proud that the ideas we had have come to fruition. The teachers continue to inspire and our graduates are amazing. What more could you ask for?

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Ruth Knight Gammon ’77, Sydnor Gammon ’07, Bob Knight, Chris Gammon, and Tom Dubick

LATIN Magazine • Spring 2020

Jackie Misenheimer, Santosh Rao ’94, and Linda Coffman


In early February, parents, alumni, faculty, staff, and Upper School students enjoyed a morning of presentations by esteemed alumni and two outstanding faculty members. The day began with breakfast and ended with tours of the new Inlustrate Orbem Building. As part of our anniversary celebration, Learn@Latin was a wonderful way to honor 50 years of inspiring a love of learning. Many thanks to all who made this special day such a success.

Topher Gee • Charlotte Latin Upper School Biology Genomic Revelations: What does our DNA really reveal about who we are? Reflection written by Erin Baldecchi, CLS Parent I feel so fortunate that I chose to attend Topher Gee’s session at Learn@Latin. I was not the most astute science student, so I went in unsure I would make much sense of a presentation entitled, “Genomic Revelations: What Does our DNA Really Reveal About Who We Are?” Immediately, I was fascinated. Dr. Gee made the material accessible to everyone. His explanation of how stress works in our DNA was fascinating. He explained that the more relaxed your DNA, the less heightened your stress response. Topher shared experiments with rats where some mother rats were naturally “lickers” and the licking of their pups actually relaxed their DNA, Topher Gee and Kathleen Holtzman which in turn gave them a less reactive stress response. This made the pups healthier and live longer. In humans, early trauma can keep DNA from relaxing which results in a heightened stress response. In my line of work, I spend a lot of time thinking about the stress response, especially as it relates to mental health and wellness, so this really resonated with me. I learned so much that was personally applicable from my session with Dr. Gee, and then I wove what I gleaned in his session with Bridgette Hard’s presentation. I also had the fortune of talking with him later that day and deepening my understanding of his talk. As a new Latin parent, Learn@Latin showed me that my kids are learning from faculty who are rich with knowledge and skilled in delivery. I left feeling so grateful that we are a part of this community and that my children have the privilege of this educational experience and teachers like Topher Gee.

Debbie Frail ’88, Martha Owen, Libby Cathcart, and Erin Baldecchi

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50TH ANNIVERSARY

Bridgette Martin Hard ’97 Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University The Psychology of Success Reflection written by Claudette Hall, former Head of Lower School What a great way to spend a Saturday morning! I expected to enjoy it, but it was beyond my expectations. It began with students, alumni, parents, grandparents, and faculty enthusiastically greeting each other followed by stimulating sessions by accomplished alums, Nita Farahany, Bridgette Hard, Jamey Price, and respected faculty. I left feeling smarter with much to think about. I was so enthralled with Bridgette’s (make that Dr. Hard’s) session that I stayed to hear it again. The presentation was, “The Psychology of Success.” A topic relevant Bridgette Martin Hard ’97 and Frances Fennebresque Hankins ’97 to all. Bridgette shared statistics showing the dramatic increase of stress and its negative effects felt by students. Using research, she showed the powerful effects of reframing stress. She shared tools and links to sites which teachers and parents could access. More importantly, she left us with the understanding that stress in this stress-promoting world can be dealt with in a healthier way. I left Bridgette’s presentation thinking how beneficial it would be for all students and parents to hear. (You may do so here: latin50.com/events.) I also came away feeling so proud of Latin and the impact it has had on thousands of families. I heard our esteemed alumni credit Latin as the foundation contributing to their success. Through the years, Latin has remained true to its founding philosophy while maintaining sound educational practices. It has led students to not only develop their intellectual potential, but to also make a difference in the world. Learn@Latin was a reminder of the powerful impact Charlotte Latin and its graduates have made in its 50 years. Truly a powerful reason to celebrate Latin!

Jamey Price ’06 • Motorsport and Automotive Photographer Life in the Fast Lane: Traveling the world as a professional motorsports photographer covering Formula 1 and Endurance Car racing Reflection written by Richard Harris, CLS English Teacher

Graham Miller ’07, Jamey Price ’06, and Patterson Maker Miller ’07

Jamey Price ’06, photographer for Charlotte’s QC Exclusive magazine since 2014, is an award-winning motorsport and automotive photographer whose work has taken him around the world. His Learn@Latin “Life in the Fast Lane” presentation revealed how he became such a professional. Jamey shared with us an early photo he prizes most, a photo so memorable I can still see it in my mind’s eye — a dark silhouette riding a horse with a vivid golden sky glowing in the background. Immediately I understood the aesthetic appreciation Jamey cultivated as a young photographer.

In 2011, Jamey’s photography career path switched from the horse track to the race track. The motorsports photos he shared in his Learn@Latin presentation artistically captured the high-octane essence of car racing. Imagine the blur of hundreds of miles per hour and the clarity of focus and steadiness of hand it takes to pan and capture a shining red Formula 1 car in motion before it speeds into the distance of the dark race track. The Learn@Latin audience gasped in awe. His passion, energy, and purpose inspire him to live life to the fullest each day. “It’s all about perspective,” Jamey said. His work as a photographer in the fast lane has taught him to truly see the value of seizing the day, celebrating the moment, and cherishing time with family and friends. He is also giving back to his community by sharing his passion for photography at special events such as Learn@Latin. We are grateful to Jamey for sharing his artistry and inspiring us all to chase the racing moment and make the most of it. 8

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1 Mike and Patti Weiss and Nancy Lea Williams ’80

Mike Weiss • Charlotte Latin Upper School History Why African-American History is American History Reflection written by Kelly Katterhagen, CLS Parent of Alumni As I sat in the front row of Mike Weiss’s class during his recent session of Learn@Latin, I had an “aha” moment. Although our three sons (Jacob ’13, Sebastian ’15, and Wyatt ’18) are now 25, 23, and 20 years old, when we travel, debate politics, or discuss world affairs around a dinner table, they always have the “historical context” and they always cite their Latin teachers such as Mr. Weiss as their sources — not a recent article or their college professors. They have continued to learn much along the way, but their Latin education formed a highly-unique and rock-solid foundation for all future learning and experience. It’s remarkable! They remember what they learned. They have a deep perspective regarding the historical context of the moment, and they are passionate about the importance of that historic moment and what one needs to understand to truly appreciate what happened. I am lucky to have had a good college education and I have a graduate degree, but I never had the privilege of a CLS experience — one that would inspire such a love of learning, tie things together in a memorable way, and provide a solid foundation from which to go forward and learn more.

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As I invariably ask, “How do you know that?” one of my three Latin Lifers invariably says, “Mr. Weiss’s APUSH or they reference another faculty member. They are better citizens of the world for it, and we are all grateful. Having the opportunity to experience that in action at Learn@Latin gave me an even deeper appreciation of Mike as a teacher and Latin as our sons’ alma mater. 1. Upper School students help direct Learn@Latin attendees to the right locations. 2. Former Head of Lower School Claudette Hall with Dr. Nita Farahany ’94 3. Daniel and Jessie Sellner, and Charlotte Kohn ’17

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CAMPAIGN

VISION2020 UPDATE As I write this update on the Vision2020 campaign it is hard to think about moving forward, advancing the school, when we are fighting the Coronavirus and the economic fall-out. Still, it is important that we share with you our progress to date and celebrate the commitments that so many in our community have made to the campaign. I am proud to share that we have passed the 92% mark to our $30 million goal. Given that Vision2020 is Latin’s most ambitious campaign ever, your support of the school and its mission is clearly reflected in the fact that we are nearly there.

92%

$30M GOAL

Your giving has a big impact. People are at the center of the Vision2020 campaign. The Latin Fund provides countless improvements around campus every year, and makes up more than 3% our annual budget. Tuition does not cover all expenses, but your support of the Latin Fund helps bridge the gap. Together with the Financial Aid and Faculty Fund priorities, the Latin Fund directly helps our students and teachers. We want to boost access to Latin, and Financial Aid is an essential component to achieve that. Next to our students, our faculty members are our top priority. Without exceptional teachers, we could not handle a situation like the one we now experience. No matter the circumstances, our teachers make the magic happen — day in and day out — at Charlotte Latin.

When we return to campus, we will have nine pristine, freshly-painted and surfaced tennis courts on the Howard Levine Athletic Campus, with ample spectator parking. These are a much-anticipated home for our tennis program. These courts eliminate the need to use courts at Raintree Country Club, providing more playing time for our student-athletes and coaches. We’ve broken ground on the strength and conditioning building, bringing much-needed space for student-athletes, P.E., faculty and staff, and alumni. This facility helps users build endurance in offseasons, supplements in-season training, and teaches the importance of fitness through the proper

Construction of the McIntosh Leadership Center — a focal point of the building is the Alumni Bridge, leading from the covered walkway to the new entrance (left), tennis courts on the Howard Levine Athletic Campus (center), and Wellness Center (right). All are scheduled to open before the start of the 2020-21 school year. 10

LATIN Magazine • Spring 2020


use of weights and exercise machines in a safe environment. The new building more than doubles our current capacity and will be ready for students at the start of school in August. The McIntosh Leadership Center also opens at the start of school in August. The renovation includes open spaces for collaboration, a café, Middle School classrooms, and offices for our Global Studies Program. Large windows were added to bring light into the space. A focal point of the building is the Alumni Bridge, leading from the covered walkway to the new entrance. We look forward to celebrating the opening with former Headmaster, Arch McIntosh, in the fall. Stay tuned for more information. We are filled with gratitude for your support, and we know that this community can bring the Vision2020 campaign to the $30 million goal, and beyond. Go Hawks!

Fredrik Akerblom Director of Development

WHAT WILL YOUR LEGACY BE? A planned gift is a contribution that is arranged in the present and allocated at a future date, usually through a will or trust. Such a gift to Charlotte Latin School creates a legacy that will significantly impact future generations of students and teachers. Learn more about the opportunities and benefits of planned giving at: charlottelatin.planmygift.org. If you have already included Latin in your will or trust, please let us know so that we may acknowledge your generosity. Contact: Emily Pinkerton, Major Gifts Officer emily.pinkerton@charlottelatin.org | (704) 846-7292 “The decision to include Charlotte Latin in our estate plans is meaningful to us because of the impact the school has had on the lives of our children and now grandchildren. We are grateful for the many opportunities for education as well as growth as individuals provided for them and are thrilled that our legacy gift will support future generations of students being afforded that same transformational experience.” – Elsie and Will Barnhardt, Parents of Alumni, Grandparents; Chair, Board of Visitors

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Celebrate

CELEBRATE LATIN

Made possible by Presenting Sponsor

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LATIN Magazine • Spring 2020

2020

CHOATE CONSTRUCTION


CELEBRATE LATIN

More than 850 members of the Latin community attended Celebrate Latin, held at Quail Hollow Club on January 25, 2020. The event raised more than $300,000 for Parents’ Council, which in turn uses these funds to support needs of the school. Thank you for your support and thank you to our sponsors! In both good and trying times, Charlotte Latin is all about community. This year’s Celebrate Latin was a wonderful evening of fellowship. We did not know then how the world would change only weeks later, but that sense of community has never been stronger.

THANK YOU 2020 SPONSORS PRESENTING SPONSOR Choate Construction

LEGACY SPONSORS Lending Tree Resort Capital Partners

SUMMA CUM LAUDE Dickens Mitchener Salins Group, Inc. South State Bank Sterling Capital Equity Income Fund: BAEIX

MAGNA CUM LAUDE Andrew Roby General Contractor Artificial Turf Products - Jeff Gross Holland and Ian Ferguson Anna and John Harris

CUM LAUDE Adams Beverages - Amy and Clay Adams AlphaGraphics CLT Janie and S. Jean Chai Charlotte Latin Alumni Association ESP Associates, Inc. Executive Swimming Pools, Inc. CUM LAUDE (continued) Charne’ and London Fletcher Amy and Jeff Foley Jenn and Mike Freno Mikelle and Charles Girard Shari and David Grams Jessica and Bill Griesser Groucho's Deli Park Road Heather and Nance Hendley Kingswood Custom Homes, Inc. Lowry Insurance - Doug and Brooke Lowry Luquire, George, Andrews Inc. Tanya and John Marco Merlo & Fahrney Dentistry Mockaitis Orthodontics Laura and Coy Monk Rachel and Paul Pomerleau Jackie and Steve Ryder Bobbie and Thad Sharrett Showalter Construction Company Whittington Builders Inc. Leslie and Mitchell Wickham The Meg Wilkinson Team HM Properties Spring 2020 • LATIN Magazine

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ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI NEWS BOOK DISCUSSION On October 22, alumni and parents of alumni gathered at Myers Park Country Club for a book discussion on The French Lieutenant’s Woman. Led by Upper School English teacher Maria Klein, this event is always a favorite.

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1. Lisa Neely and Shirley Jarmosevich 2. Mimi Carbone, Mary Beth Harris, Dale Michelle, and Wyn Page 3. Beth Bowen, Maria Klein, and Marty Brownlow ’94

HAWKS ON TAP A quarterly networking event, Hawks on Tap turned into an art crawl on November 21. With art teachers Richard Fletcher ’85 and Will Thomason, alumni viewed the Senior Art Show at Spirit Square before walking to the Imperial for drinks and nibbles.

1 1. Latin alumni at Senior Art Show 2. David Nunn ’01, Will Thomason, and Andrew Schaeffer ’00

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ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI BASKETBALL GAME On Saturday, December 21, Coach Chris Berger ’89 and former Coach Jerry Faulkner hosted Latin basketball alumni for the annual holiday game.

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1. Basketball alumni 2. Ryan Brouse ’19 and John Beecy ’19 3. Jacob Nabatoff ’13, Adam Herrmann ’13, Louis Tonon ’13, and Head of School Chuck Baldecchi 4. Jorn Bleimann ’85, Graham Miller ’07, Kevin Kreutzer, and Kevin Levine ’86 5. Barbara Robinson and Hall of Fame Coach Jerry Faulkner Spring 2020 • LATIN Magazine

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ALUMNI NEWS

CLASS REUNIONS

On Saturday, December 21, the Class of 2009 and the Class of 2014 enjoyed celebrating their milestone reunions at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery.

CLASS OF 2014

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1. Class of 2014 2. West Osborn ’14, Austin Schellpfeffer ’14, Zach Brouse ’14, and John Robinson ’14 3. Caroline Seaton ’14, Mary Page Welch ’14, Elizabeth Beecy ’14, and Elizabeth Aucamp ’14 4. Tommy Whitmore ’14 and Chris Downing ’14 5. Emma Cooley ’14, Madeline Stefan ’14, Ali Ozmeral ’14, Carter Tate ’14, and Lizzie Chaconas ’14 6. Davis Hanson ’14 and Joe Baynard ’14

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ALUMNI NEWS

CLASS OF 2009

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1. Catie Faison Van Loon ’09, Head of School Chuck Baldecchi, and Anita Griffin Postal ’09 2. Laura Hicks ’09, David Pearson ’09, Harrison Steele ’09, and Blair Williams Bruckmann ’09 3. Class of 2009 4. Nick Coma ’09, David Golder ’09, John ’09 and Sarah Wojcik ’09 Grantham 5. Alex Papadopulos ’09, Alex Walls Willis Fleming ’09, and Alex Skipper ’09 6. LaVonia Montoute ’09 and Annie Booke ’09

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ALUMNI NEWS

14TH ANNUAL YOUNG ALUMNI HOLIDAY PARTY A much anticipated holiday tradition, the Young Alumni Holiday Party brought alumni from Classes of 2009 through 2016 together at Angry Ale’s on Thursday, December 26.

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1. Chief Etheridge ’13, Adam Herrmann ’13, Allen Tate ’13, Johnathon Garwood ’13, Chris Paschal ’13, Katie Grad ’13, and Emily Johnson ’13 2. Farrell Murphy ’10 and Effe Ghartey-Tagoe ’10 3. Kaelin Bush ’16, Alex Demas ’15, Elly Anderson ’16, Coleman Evans ’16, Claire Lucas ’16, Melanie Gamble ‘16, and Catherine Crigler ’15 4. Sebastian Nabatoff ’15 and Emma Lee ’16 5. Khalil Harris ’15, Ken Koch ’15, Hope Dragelin ’15, Steven Glaser ’15, Joth Gass ’15


ALUMNI NEWS

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6. Olivia ’16, Margot ’14, and Hank ’13 Sprow 7. Gracie Ghartey-Tagoe ’14, Lea Kokenes ’14, Emma Cooley ’14, Christian White ’14, Griffin Smith ’14, George Lucas ’14, and Julian White ’14 8. Director of Alumni Relations Sally Gray Smith ’82 and EC Myers ’16 9. Richard Harris, Andrew Fish ’16, and Ryan Gardner ’15

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ALUMNI NEWS

LEARNING TO FLY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES THE CHARLOTTE LATIN ALUMNI ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP The Alumni Endowment was established by the Alumni Governing Board in 1990. The Endowment is used, in part, to grant the annual Inlustrate Orbem awards, which recognize and reward exceptional and committed faculty members who have significantly contributed to the life of the school. In 2006, the Alumni Governing Board also established the Alumni Association Distinguished Faculty Chair program, which honors the teacher who most exemplifies leadership, instruction, and mentorship for the entire CLS community with a substantial monetary commitment. Upper School History teacher, Mike Weiss, was named that year. In 2008, a second Distinguished Faculty Chair was awarded. It was awarded to Middle School Humanities teacher Linda Coffman. Upon Linda’s retirement, it was awarded to Upper School Visual Arts chair, and Latin alumnus, Richard Fletcher ’85. Recognizing that the school has grown and its needs have changed, the CLS Alumni Association and Alumni Governing Board (AGB) recently voted to create another endowed opportunity at CLS to directly benefit Lower School students and families. Beginning in the 2020–21 school year, the Alumni Association and AGB introduce the Learning to Fly — Charlotte Latin Alumni Endowed Scholarship. The Learning to Fly scholarship will be awarded to three Lower School students to assist in meeting a wide variety of financial

The Distinguished Faculty Chair Award represents, without doubt, the high point of my career in teaching at Charlotte Latin School. It is an affirmation. It is an inspiration. This award and its financial component make opportunities available that may not have been choices before. The award was life-altering for my family and me. I am humbled to have been selected and eternally grateful to our alumni for having the foresight to establish the endowment. – Richard Fletcher ’85 20

LATIN Magazine • Spring 2020

Chrissy Hunter Lucas ’04, Daniel Nunn ’97, and Paige Ford ’06.

aid needs, including those of alumni children. It is, in fact, the hope of the AGB that this scholarship opportunity encourages more CLS alumni families to consider Charlotte Latin School as an option for their children. “Let’s be honest – Latin can be a financial stretch. Many alumni do not feel they can afford to send their children to Latin. We felt that it was important to utilize the endowment to try to make Latin more feasible. By creating this scholarship, we not only want to help the recipients of the scholarship, but also enrich the Charlotte Latin School community as a whole through the addition of deserving children and families that otherwise may not be a part of the community,” explained the three alumni behind this effort, Chrissy Hunter Lucas ’04, Daniel Nunn ’97, and Paige Ford ’06. Consistent with the current Financial Aid process, eligibility for the Learning to Fly scholarship requires completing the confidential application for financial aid. Recipients of CLS scholarships remain anonymous. The AGB has no involvement in the selection of the Learning to Fly scholarship recipients nor in the administration of the scholarship. “It’s all about building relationships,” said Director of Financial Aid Chris Downing. Downing sees this scholarship through a variety of lenses. As an alumni parent and tireless champion of Latin alums near and far, Downing is also a recipient of the Inlustrate Orbem Award (2018). This scholarship increases the school’s flexibility to allocate resources as needed. “It comes full circle,” Downing explains, “This enables more ways for alumni to send their own kids to their alma mater.”


ALUMNI ASSOCIATION DISTINGUISHED FACULTY CHAIR RECIPIENTS

INLUSTRATE ORBEM RECIPIENTS The Inlustrate Orbem awards recognize and reward exceptional and committed faculty members who have significantly contributed to the life of the school. Recipients are listed in order of Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School.

2002: Martha Owen, Richard Fletcher ’85, Mike Weiss 2003: Cheri Ewald, Tom Dubick, Ken Collins Arch McIntosh Jr., Lawrence Wall, and MIKE WEISS (2006)

2004: Anne Rutherford, Linda Coffman, Heidi Carpenter 2005: Karen Marsh, Mary Lou Lewis, Mike Arim 2006: Libby Cathcart, Pam Franklin, Jeff Knull 2007: Jackie Parks, Page McEachern, Chip Martin 2008: Shirley Anderson Cook ’93, Nelly Smith, Jean Webb

LINDA COFFMAN (2008)

2009: Joann McDaniel, Middle: Ed Fox ’80, Dianne Sanchez 2010: Kathy Barr, Mary Lou Lewis, Will Thomason 2011: Lilla Austin, Jenny Austen Urbain ’95, Jean Skidmore 2012: Catherine Williams, Irene Pointon, Buck Butler 2013: Meredith Pierson, Rives Wedding, Ken Kneidel 2014: Alicia Long, Teresa Edwards, Craig Estep 2015: Kelly Willis, Clark Hawgood, Larry McNulty

Patrick Rivenbark ’02 and RICHARD FLETCHER ’85 (2015)

2016: Mary Cerbie, Eric Smith, Jessie Sellner 2017: Susan Russell, David Taylor, Jay Scott

The mission of the AGB is “To support and sustain the values of Charlotte Latin School’s mission statement through strengthening ties with its alumni, honoring the school’s faculty, and enriching the school’s community.” By creating the Learning to Fly scholarship, in addition to the already existing Inlustrate Orbem Awards and Distinguished Faculty Chairs, the AGB is utilizing the Alumni Endowment to support and fulfill its mission.

2018: Libby Cathcart, Jeff Wolfe, Chris Downing 2019: Katie Ivanoff Smith ’93, Donay Fullwood, Richard Harris

Spring 2020 • LATIN Magazine

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ALUMNI NEWS

ALUMNI GOVERNING BOARD PAST PRESIDENTS’ LUNCH On February 5, AGB President Chrissy Hunter Lucas ’04 and Head of School Chuck Baldecchi hosted past Alumni Governing Board presidents for lunch at Myers Park Country Club. This annual tradition provided Chrissy and Chuck the opportunity to share updates and reflections on the year.

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1. Katie Miller Iams ’01, Chrissy Hunter Lucas ’04, and Charles Thies ’90 2. Head of School Chuck Baldecchi, Frances Fennebresque Hankins ’97, and John Fennebresque ’89 3. Eric Madara ’01, Patrick Rivenbark ’02, and Michael Parks ’07

HAWKS & HORSES Upper School English teacher, Richard Harris, teamed up with award-winning photographer and former horse racing jockey, JAMEY PRICE ’06, to offer a Hawks & Horses volunteer opportunity with Mitey Riders at Misty Meadows farm in Waxhaw. Mitey Riders is a therapeutic riding program that provides free, certified, equine-assisted therapy to young people with a range of disabilities, including muscular dystrophy, Down syndrome and autism. The introductory volunteer session (originally scheduled for April) will allow participants to learn more about how the Mitey Riders program operates and experience first-hand what lead and side walking a horse and rider requires for future volunteering. Hawks & Horses is co-sponsored by Assistant Head of Upper School and Upper School mathematics teacher, Jeff Knull, and Director of Human Resources, Beth Lucas. Stay tuned for the rescheduled session.

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ALUMNI - CLASS NOTES

CLASS NOTES TECHY HAWKS: ALUMNI ON MISSION TO DRIVE TECH FOR GOOD Tommy Marshall ’87, Patrick Rivenbark ’02, and Tucker Hass ’15 are all on a mission to drive financial technology (fintech) and all three are doing just that in unique ways. Whether helping individual’s financial wellness and future, changing the way companies find fintech talent or evolving an entire state’s education, these three techy hawks are shaping lives…one click at a time. TOMMY MARSHALL ’87 was named Executive Director for Georgia FinTech Academy in October of 2019. Georgia FinTech Academy brings together the fintech industry and the University System of Georgia, offering education and training on a wide range of fintech topics and career pathways. In his new role, Tommy hopes a minimum of 800 students will take at least one academy course, to place more than 200 interns and more than 200 full-time hires and make 5-7 professional education courses available in the market. Marshall states that the unique platform of the academy is one that “should open many doors and create multiple partnership opportunities with any current and future fintech companies.” Before becoming Executive Director for Georgia FinTech, Tommy spent 25 years as a financial services management consultant.

Tommy Marshall is now Executive Director for Georgia FinTech.

PATRICK RIVENBARK ’02 is working on bringing Catalyte to the Southeast, beginning in Charlotte. Catalyte uses artificial intelligence to identify individuals, regardless of background, who have the innate potential and cognitive ability to be great software developers. Catalyte helps solve the most persistent technology challenge for the world’s most forward-looking companies — building a high-performing, inclusive, and scalable tech workforce that universally uplifts communities. Patrick is excited to be making meaningful changes to the challenges of socio-economic mobility in Charlotte. TUCKER HAAS ’15 launched a fintech startup, Quo, with fellow Stanford grad Neel Yerneni. Quo is a consumer fintech company that is creating the first-ever financial back-up plan for 40 percent of Americans who cannot afford a $400 unexpected expense. For a few dollars

Patrick Rivenbark with his wife Rachel, daughter Dylan and son Isaiah.

per month, you can get access to several hundred-dollar loans at 2-5% APR for emergency or unexpected expenses. The hope of Quo is to provide users with “financial peace of mind” by making a line of credit available to users when they need it. Quo’s loans are built to be flexible and intelligent, with payments changing to reflect a user’s ability to repay and locked to only work at merchants related to the emergency for which the loan is specified, making them perfect for creating a solid financial footing. The Quo application integrates smart budgeting tools, credit education, and cash back rewards for being financially healthy so that users can stay on track and get rewarded for not borrowing rather than spending money they do not have. Tucker serves as CEO of Quo and majored in computer science with a focus on low-level systems. There are currently more than 40,000 people on the waitlist for Quo.

Tucker Haas ’15, a recent graduate of Stanford University, launched Quo, a fintech company.

Spring 2020 • LATIN Magazine

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ALUMNI - CLASS NOTES

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST BABY HAWKS 1. Congratulations to Matthew and LIZ BREYER JOHNSON

’98 who welcomed Lucy Currin on June 29, 2019. Matt, Liz, and Lucy live in Charlotte, NC. 2. TALIA CALIGIURI FANN ’98 and husband, Alan, welcomed Austin Caligiuri on February 9, 2019. 3. MEGAN BYNUM ’98 and her wife Amy welcomed the birth of their son, Ethan Luke, on October 9, 2019. 4. ELEANOR NICHOLS ’98 and STEVEN STARNER ’98 welcomed newest addition, Lillie Katherine Starner, on August 28, 2019. Lillie weighed 5lbs. 15 oz. and measured 18 ¾ inches. 5. NICHELLE WYNN SUBLETT ’00 writes, “Harold and I welcomed our miracle

baby boy on September 6, 2019, Hudson Dean Sublett. Hudson was absolutely worth the wait. We’re over the moon with happiness and grateful to be his parents.” 6. Lindsey and ANDY HENSON ’98 welcomed Eloise Lee “Weezie” on June 11, 2019. Big brothers Jack, in Grade 1, and Tee, in TK, love taking care of their little sister. 7. ERIN HICKEY CLEGG ’01 and DAVE CLEGG ’01 announce the birth of their daughter Elene Marie Clegg. Elena was born on December 10, 2019, and weighed 7lbs. 3 oz. Erin and Dave are happily living and working just outside of the Washington, D.C. area.

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1. Lucy Currin Johnson, daughter of Matt and Liz Johnson, stretches for the camera 2. Austin Caligiuri Fann gets a big hug from older brother Lucas. 3. Ethan Luke receives kisses from moms Megan and Amy. 4. Lillie Katherine Starner pictured with big sister Sara Grace and big brother Sam. 5. Hudson Dean Sublett, son of Nichelle and Harold Sublett, celebrates his first Valentine’s Day 6. Weezie Henson, daughter of Lindsey and Andy Henson, is all smiles waiting on her first visit from Santa. 7. Elena Marie Clegg at 8 weeks old.


8. RUTH VAN DYKE WYATT ’02 and her husband, John, welcomed Emily Kathryn Wyatt on August 19, 2019. Emily is adored by big brother Jack, in TK, and big sister Anna. 9. MARY HOLLAND RANKIN GRIFFIN ’03 and husband, Tripp, welcomed Grady O’Herron Griffin on November 4, 2019. Big sister Lydia and the whole family are in love! 10. Aly and PAT FINN, JR. ’03 welcomed daughter, Sutton, in July of 2019. 11. STERLING MASTERS DEENEY ’03 and her husband, Mike, welcomed their son Dylan Michael Deeney on October 28, 2019. The Denneys are currently relocating to Charlotte from New York City where Sterling has been

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11 8. Emily Kathryn Wyatt gets a pep talk on how to sleep through the night from siblings Jack and Anna. 9. Grady Griffin is a Tar Heel basketball fan. 10. Sutton Finn shows her support for her dad, Patt Finn ’03, who is running for District Court Judge. 11. Dylan Michael is the son of Sterling and Michael Denney. 12. Molly Ryder and family are all smiles as they huddle in for a picture of their party of five. 13. William Owen Mon is the son of Julie and Dyfrig Mon. 14. Lucy and Logan Blough celebrate the arrival of William.

performing on Broadway in Wicked. 12. JACKIE ROCHE RYDER ’04 and her husband Steve welcomed their daughter Madelyn Claire “Molly” on July 29, 2019. Big brother Thomas and sister Catherine, in Kindergarten, dote on Molly. 13. JULIE WEBSTER MON ’07 and her husband Dyfrig welcomed William Owen Mon on January 31, 2020. Julie graduated with an MBA from Drexel University in December 2019. The Mons live in Malvern, Pennsylvania. 14. Lucy and LOGAN BLOUGH ’08 welcomed their son William Miller Blough on February 28, 2020.

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ALUMNI - CLASS NOTES

HAWKS IN FLIGHT SCOTT LAEDLEIN ’84 retired as a Captain in the Navy after 30 years of active service.

Congratulations to JAY KING ’98 who was promoted to Associate Professor at the University of Florida in the department of Orthopaedic Surgery.

an Honors English elective, which was inspired by her experience at Latin during her junior and senior year.

KATIE SCRUGGS LOGAN ’98 is now the lead nurse practitioner of the heart failure program at Roper Hospital.

Captain Scott Laedlin at his retirement ceremony at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida.

JO BELASCO ’86 owns a equine law firm, Windhorse Legal, PLLC, and also heads a nonprofit Tapestry Institute where she created and directs the HorseHuman Relationship Program. Jo also helps fearful riders as well as other riders who want a better relationship with their horses. She has conducted clinics all over the West, produced a DVD and presented seminars at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo. Jo lives in Northwestern Nebraska and is an avid horsewoman and has five mustangs.

LAURENS WILLARD ’00 was reunited with his State Championship wrestling ring after the ring was found by alumni parent and good samaritan Marilyn Thompson Dougherty. Marilyn was gardening in her yard and she came across the ring. With the help of a toothbrush, some elbow grease, and a little detective work using old yearbooks, Marilyn was able to "pin" down that the ring belonged to Laurens and returned it to school.

Annelise Shelton (on far right) dressed up on Halloween as a Grey’s Anatomy doctor with senior students at The Blessed Sacrament Huguenot School.

TREVOR WYNN ’08 graduated from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, in May 2019. Trevor was a member of the St. Thomas More Law Honor Society and served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Loyola of Los Angeles Entertainment Law Review. Trevor is an associate at K&L Gates in Los Angeles. It still fits! Laurens Willard reunited with his wrestling ring more than 20 years later.

Jo Belasco with one of her five horses. Jo enjoys her time in Nebraska hiking, riding and photographing the wonderful landscape of the West.

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ANNELISE SHELTON ’07 is the English Department Chair at The Blessed Sacrament Huguenot School, a Pre-K-12 private school in Powhatan, Virginia. Annelise teaches Junior and Senior Honors and AP English courses in addition to being the yearbook advisor and a senior class advisor. Annelise recently created her own curriculum for

JANE WESTER ’13 graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in May of 2017. While at Carolina, Jane was the Editor in Chief of The Daily Tar Heel and inducted into the Order of the Golden Fleece, the university’s highest honorary society. Jane most recently reported on the Harvey Weinstein trial. Her articles have been published in the New York Law Journal. Jane lives in New York City.


ALUMNI - CLASS NOTES

TOMMY ROYTHER ’14, a graduate of the University of Tennessee, is pursuing his graduate certificate for Ski Area Management online through Colorado State University. As marketing manager for Ober Gatlinburg, he was thrilled that his “small mountain” was a premier mountain sponsor for the nationally televised Visa Big Air Competition at SunTrust Park in Atlanta in January 2020.

HAWKS IN LOVE NELSON HO ’06 married Larissa Boyce on October 5, 2019. The couple recently moved back to the Charlotte area.

SEBASTIAN MITCHELL BARR ’06 married his partner, Danielle O’Banion, in March 2019 at Cambridge City Hall. Sebastian is currently completing his post-doctoral fellowship in psychodynamic psychotherapy at Cambridge Health Alliance and Harvard Medical School. He was recently accepted to participate in the Faber Residency, a program in Catalonia, Spain. He will be using his time in residence to adapt his dissertation on the traumatic impact on anti-transgender bias and non-affirmation of gender identity into manuscripts for publication.

Nelson and Larissa Ho celebrate their wedding. Tommy Royther ’14 enjoys success in Tennessee’s ski industry.

GRACE MORRIS ’16 received the Best Student News Producing award from the Radio Television and Digital News Association. Grace is currently a senior at Elon University.

AMANDA MASSEY ’06 married Craig Burel in October at Montage Palmetto Bluff in South Carolina.

Sebastian Barr and his partner Danielle O’Banion on their wedding day in March.

Newlyweds Amanda Massey and Craig Burel enjoy their wedding day.

Grace Morris celebrates her achievement of receiving the Best Student News Producing award.

CADY HAMMER ’18 recently completed her young adult fantasy novel called Chasing Fae. Chasing Fae is being published by New Degree Press and is set to be released in July 2020.

Claire Litaker ’08 and Drew Patterson enjoyed a DeBordieu wedding with many of Claire’s 2008 classmates as attendants.

Congratulations to CLAIRE LITAKER ’08 and Drew Patterson who were married on April 27, 2019, in DeBordieu, South Carolina. Hawks filled the wedding party as Merritt Johnson Denham ’08, Shelley Wynn ’08, Jaime Todd Satterfield ’08, Amy Masters Summers ’08, Lisa Atlas Candon ’08, and Dannie Litaker ’15 were bridesmaids. Claire’s brother Tommy Litaker ’11 was a groomsman and Molly McCrory Schultz ’07 was a reader in the ceremony. The Pattersons live in Charlotte where Claire works in residential interior design with Lee Cooney, mom to Tyler ’12 and Andrew ’11.


ALUMNI - CLASS NOTES

HAWKS IN THE ARTS SCOTT TURNER SCHOFIELD ’98 was recently featured in The New York Times with a group of transgender men who are breaking ground in Hollywood. Scott played the role of Robin, a jazz musician and best friend to the lead character, in the movie The Conductor. In addition, Scott has been nominated for his second Indie Series Award for Best Guest Actor in an Amazon series called Studio City. Scott continues to consult for GLAAD and train corporations in trans sensitivity. Scott lives in Hollywood with his wife Terra.

in Sound Mixing for Live Action Motion Pictures. Matt writes, “The relatively small crew on Ford v Ferrari really went above and beyond. It was a wild ride, and I am pleased to join Jim Rash ’89 in the pantheon of Oscar-winning Hawks.”

Playwright KORDE TUTTLE’S ’08 most recent work graveyard shift, most recently at Goodman's Owen Theatre in Chicago, received four stars from the Chicago Tribune. Inspired by the death of Sandra Bland in 2015 while in police custody, his play addresses the racial tension in our country.

Korde Tuttle writer of graveyard shift.

Smokey Cloud celebrates with his Oscar.

Scott Turner Schofield plays a jazz musician in the movie The Conductor.

Congratulations to MATT “SMOKEY” CLOUD ’00 who was part of the Ford v Ferrari sound team that won an Academy Award for Best Sound Editing. In addition to the Oscar, the film also collected honors for the Hollywood Film Award for Sound of the Year, the Hawaii Film Critics Society Award for Best Sound, the Satellite Award for Best Sound, and both the Motion Picture Sound Editors Outstanding Achievement in Sound Editing - Sound Effects and Foley for Feature Film, and the Cinema Audio Society’s Outstanding Achievement

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PAUL MANOS ’00 and his band To Better Waters recorded and released a new album in summer of 2019. You are Here is now available on all major streaming services including iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, and Pandora. When not playing the guitar and singing, Paul works at the newly-formed Truist organization.

Paul Manos with his wife Margaret and daughters Anna and Victoria.

WILL BRANNER ’12 was most recently on tour with Mean Girls Broadway just after completing the American premiere of Bat Out of Hell at New York City Center. In addition to acting, Will is working as a director and producer. His most recent short film SCHMIK premiered at the Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles as part of HollyShorts film festival. Will also serves as a college audition and acting coach based out of New York City.

Will Branner with Upper School Choir Teacher Craig Estep on the stage of Mean Girls.


ALUMNI - CLASS NOTES

RYAN GARDNER ’15 has most recently traveled the U.S. and Canada as the Assistant Stage Manager for the North American Tour of the Broadway musical Waitress. As Assistant Stage Manager, Ryan facilitates and cues many of the technical elements of the show backstage and sometimes even gets to call the show. Waitress is written by Grammy Award winner, Sara Bareilles.

HAWKS STAY CONNECTED Around the country and world, Hawks have been called to stay at home. During this time of social distancing and self-isolation, we are striving to keep Hawks connected even more than ever through social media. Follow @clsalumni on Instagram and @CharlotteLatinAlumni on Facebook where you’ll find: •

Supporting Hawks’ small businesses

Ryan Gardner calling the Broadway musical Waitress.

Sheltering Hawks sharing what they’re reading, what they’re watching, etc.

EMILY PADGETT ’16 is a fourth-year student in film producing at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. She is currently in post production on her thesis film which will screen in Winston-Salem this spring. Emily had the opportunity to attend Sundance Film Festival this January and states, “As a producing student, it’s easy to get caught up in the business side of filmmaking - but Sundance reminded me that while film is a business, it’s also an art form.” After graduation, Emily will be relocating to Los Angeles to pursue casting for film and TV.

Hawks helping out in their communities

Weekly #HawksHunkerDown takeovers

Faculty Five series

More 50th Anniversary stories

@CharlotteLatinAlumni

@clsalumni Sally Gray Smith ’82 Director of Alumni Relations ssmith@charlottelatin.org • 704.846.7253 Emily Padgett at Sundance Film Festival. Emily decided to pursue filmmaking after creating a stop-motion animation video project for Ms. Labrie’s 10th grade English class.

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LATIN IN THE NEWS

FROM MAKING TO MANUFACTURING An Idea Turned Reality Saves Lives On March 17, 2020, Latin parents, Dr. S.Jean Chai and his wife, Dr. Janie Chai, discussed their concerns about the supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers, while having dinner with their daughter, Katie ’21. This conversation sparked an emergency relief effort that has unified a community and brought together more than 500 people from a variety of backgrounds. Katie reached out to Mr. Tom Dubick, her Innovation and Design teacher and Latin’s Fab Lab Director, and by March 20, we were printing prototypes. The following day, representatives from Latin, UNC-Charlotte, and the greater Charlotte community formed Charlotte MEDI (Medical Emergency Device Innovations), and within hours, dozens of 3D printers were up and running around Charlotte. The Chais established a GoFundMe campaign to fund the project with an initial goal of donating 10,000 face shields. Upon learning that PPE was in such demand and requested throughout the state of North Carolina, Charlotte MEDI upped their goal to 100,000 face shields. As of this printing, the fundraising goal had increased to $125,000, and we were not far from reaching it. By March 23, the first 30 shields were delivered to local hospitals. And within seven days, Charlotte MEDI had contracted with local manufacturing companies to massproduce the shields. Led by Mr. Dubick and Dr. Terence Fagan of UNC-Charlotte, the team developed a design that could be manufactured using injection molding, allowing much higher quantities and much faster production. Compared to the 3D printers (MAKING), which were taking about two and a half hours per part, injection molding can make two parts every 40 seconds, thus increasing capacity exponentially (MANUFACTURING).

Katie Chai ’21 with her father, Dr. S.Jean Chai

The test run took place on March 29, and per Mr. Dubick, “On April 6, we reached a milestone of 12,000 total face shields produced. We are hoping to ramp up dramatically this week to reach between 50K to 100K in the next two weeks.” The volunteer effort and community support have been phenomenal. Hundreds of Latin parents, the CharlotteMecklenburg Library, and individuals from around the world have offered time and equipment to make this project a success and put this PPE in the hands of frontline medical workers who need it so desperately. The Charlotte Latin community is so proud of the students, families, faculty, and administrators who saw a need — envisioned a solution — and made it a reality that saves lives. Little did we know, when the Engineering and Fab Lab programs began at Latin, they would not only support the school’s mission through innovation, but also impact Charlotte and the world. Forever Forward. Forever Latin.

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LATIN IN THE NEWS

On April 6, we reached a milestone of 12,000 total face shields produced. We are hoping to ramp up dramatically...to reach between 50K to 100K.” 1

――Tom Dubick, Innovation and Design teacher

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1. Media coverage has included WBTV, WSOC, WCNC, Forbes, Fortune, and other outlets. 2. Local healthcare workers wear the face shields made by Latin students. 3. Latin students work on face shields from their home. 4. A close-up of the face shield upon completion. 5. Latin alum and WBTV reporter, Caroline Hicks, tweets about Latin students 3D printing face shields and the accompanying fundraiser.

Spring 2020 • LATIN Magazine

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Blake brought this drawing with him the day of his interview about what the school would be like in 2070 (See the video at latin50.com.). He explained that the grass would be too big (after growing for 50 years), so you would need the steps to the right. The dot at the top of the building, he said, “recognizes HONOR.”

CHARLOTTE LATIN SCHOOL What will the school look like in 50 years? When you come to Charlotte Latin, you have to walk up stairs because the grass is too big. (It’s been growing for 50 years, he explained). It will have a dot at the top. That recognizes honor. Where are the students in the picture? They are already in the school! What would you tell someone in 50 years? Honor Above All still. Always listen and be nice. Help people that need help. – Blake Oliver, Kindergarten

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What will change about Latin in 50 years? I hope we become more diverse with different kinds of students and different types of teachers. – Marisol Wickham, Grade 6

How would you describe Latin in 2070? Latin in 2070 will have more outdoor learning experiences combined with classes, and virtual reality in history classes so you are able to experience history. – Nyela Rucker, Grade 9

What will teachers and students at Latin be like in 2070? I think the teachers will always be there to help. They’ll be committed to students’ learning. – Caroline Fahrney, Grade 7

What would you say to Latin students in 50 years? I hope you have a good time at Charlotte Latin, and I hope you have a great college.

What about the campus do you hope is still here in 50 years? The new building — it is really cool. I hope that Wingspan is still here. I also really like the Fab Lab and hope that the laser cutter will still be here. – Evan Li, Grade 8

Describe Latin in 2070? I think it will have the same community values as Latin did in 1970. – Gabe Stein, Grade 9

– An Yi Stockdale, Grade 2

IN THE YEAR 2070

What do you hope stays the same? I hope Patten Stadium stays the same — there’s nothing like winning a game and looking up in the stands and seeing all your friends up there. – Andrew Cowan, Grade 11

What do you hope stays the same about Latin? It's nice to come here. I never dread it. You always have the ability to have some fun and still learn. And community — I walk past high schoolers and everyone’s just friends and everyone knows how to learn and everyone's nice to each other. – Jay McCracken, Grade 7

What about Latin will be the same in 50 years? I believe the friendly and encouraging community will stay the same — especially the teachers who want us to succeed and who are always encouraging us to reach out of comfort zones. – Stephanie Caddell, Grade 12


What a difference a year makes: Seniors 2020

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES

The Class of 2020 was always going to be different. Born during a time of National Tragedy (9/11 and its aftermath), they now face a different challenge as a worldwide pandemic has brought the curtain down on what should have been a normal, much celebrated senior year in high school. They could choose to focus on the things, the events, that they will miss; however, that does not do justice to the spirit of the Class of 2020. This is a class where different rather than normal is embraced. The Class of 2020 understands that there is nothing wrong with different — it opens up a whole new lens through which to view the world. And if ever there was a Charlotte Latin class whose spirit was willing to focus on the gains rather than the losses inherent in our new reality, it’s the Class of 2020. Throughout this year, they have drawn on the wonderful relationships they have built during their time at Latin, relationships forged on the playground, the sports field, the stage, and in the classrooms of a school that has embraced them individually and collectively. This class has an ebullient spirit marked by a sense of camaraderie that extends past cliques and teams. This class cheers for one another, in accomplishments great and small. This class laughs with one another, and most importantly, this class supports one another. So while they may not have had the Spring Break or the senior prom as they had originally envisioned, they do have each other, and a Latin community that celebrates the resilience, the strength of character, the love of life, and the determination to find joy in challenging times. Latin prides itself on developing leaders, and the Class of 2020 has proven that it leads our students in both the good times and the bad, as true leaders are wont to do. We celebrate 50 years of Latin and the Class of 2020 with gratitude, love, and respect. – Tracey Vanneste and Jim Bean, Senior Class Advisers

Class of 2020

704.846.1100 www.charlottelatin.org

LATIN

MAGAZINE

9502 Providence Road Charlotte, NC 28277-8695

Spring 2020 • Charlotte Latin School

Congratulations to the Class of 2020

Abigail Rose Adams Caitlin Judith Ahearn Olivia Anne Aldridge Katherine Mawer Aljian Dilan Rit Amin William Thomas Atwell Carter Anne Barlow Anna Stewart Barnhardt Sophia Raja Bellavia Adel Miriam Berhe Ryan Joseph Bonner Dolan Richard Brasser Virginia Reid Brownlow Raegan McKenzie Burrell Gabrielle Ann Cacheris Stephanie Marie Caddell McCain Joseph Carpenter John Thomas Cashion Zoe Hamilton Claytor John Grayson Clements Audrey Sharon Cobb Elizabeth Bailey Cobb-Curtis Gabriella Grace Colombo Emma Winslow Conley Daniel Leonardo Cunnane Conner Milburn Davant Jackson Colson Davis John Kenneth Davis Dominick Michael DePaola III Andrew Bradley DeWeese Alexis Michel André Delobelle Charlotte Fletcher Denny

Daniel Menna Derraik Marion Thompson Donald Sarah Ann Eastridge Jackson Christopher Edwards Catalina Eva Erwin John Luke Farah David Louis Felkner Cassandra Diane Figueroa Brooks Scholl Finby Thomas Michael Finke, Jr. Lauren Mercer Foley Emma Marie Gatrell Michael Bruce Giftos Samantha Abby Gitlin Harrison Campbell Grams William Tyler Gray August Arthur Haldeman Alexander Barnes Hall Emily Kathleen Harris Elizabeth Cooke Helweg David William Hendrick, Jr. Taylor Alex Henry Michael Worth Hinshaw III Robert Bradham Hull Gabrielle Grace Johnson Randy Lovell Johnson Thea Elisabet Karlsson Ana Theresa Kenefick Sara Grace Kenefick Blake William Kiefer Emma Elizabeth Landry Lauren Sinclair Langley

Alexander Michael Lapuente Andrew James Lewis Jakob Tyler Lucas Matthew Aaron Mackey William Connor Mackey Adam Harrison Manuel Isabela Raizel Marcus Abigail Claire Matthews Benjamin Dean McCarter James Beatty Meanor III Assem Barlykovna Mendygaziyeva Sean Michael Minnig Evan Antony Mitchell Dawson Thomas Nash Isabella Grace Nashbar Julia Louise Nielsen Brooke Alysse Norman Paige Ellen Nurkin Franceen Nana Obeng Christopher Lee Oster Laura Abigail Owens Braden Kent Panther Evelyn Grace Peters Delaney Marie Phillips Luke David Picciola Mary Catherine Pope Nicole Morgan Reinhardt Grace Stanton Reynolds Andrew Keith Robelen Christopher Daniel Saba Victoria Sagasta Pereira

Matthew James Schwarz Spencer Davis Sharrett William Bryce Sharrett Samuel Scott Shumate, Jr. Kendall Grace Slayton Joseph Henry Smith Michael Bennett Smith Anna Katelyn Snyder Isabelle Camryn Song Katherine Murphy Stenersen Carter Thomas Stockwell Tiana Rae Sullivan Andrew Thomas Sumichrast Morgan Elisabeth Swiler Maxine Joanna Marcelo Tan Lane Woodall Tayloe Charles Verbeck Thigpen Charles Payne Thrift John Maher Tierney Austin Carrol Tolber, Jr. Isabella Sol Troni Virginia Paige Troutman Kai Marcus Vincent Charles Angus Watson Sarah English Watson Mason Christine Wellons Emily Kemp White Jackson Pierce Willett Wesley Graham Wise Thomas Porter Young Laura Catherine Zielinski


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