The Magazine of Hammond School SUMMER 2024
FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear Hammond Families:
As the 2023-2024 school year came to a close, I shared with the faculty and staff many of the moments that made the past year special. Along with the pride and gratitude that so often accompany the last school day, I couldn’t help reflecting on another successful school year, and the ways our school makes a difference in the lives of young people. As members of the Hammond community, we are all a part of something bigger -- something profoundly impactful.
We contribute to a shared effort that transcends individual achievement. We join with others to create a positive impact and build a sense of unity that fosters a deeper connection and purpose. This sense of unity and purpose we cultivate extends beyond Hammond, creating an impact that resonates far beyond our gates.
In the classroom, we share a commitment to the life of the mind that translates to academic success. We foster a sense of intellectual curiosity and a spirit of collaboration. This collective dedication to learning and academic excellence contributes to a culture of scholarship that enriches the school community. This same commitment is also seen on our athletic fields and in the arts.
Ninety-three percent of our students in middle and upper school participate in Hammond athletics. While they each have a position to play, they are part of a bigger legacy – one of teamwork, perseverance, and camaraderie. Our athletes train hard, support one another, and strive for excellence both on and off the field. Similarly, stepping onto the stage for a play or performance is about more than the individual role played, but is the creative expression that occurs while working closely with others to deliver something magical.
Community service at Hammond is no exception. While not a requirement, but an expectation, our students have discovered the power of making a difference in the lives of others. They have learned they are a part of something much bigger than themselves when they give from the heart. This ability to contribute to a larger purpose and demonstrate the spirit of compassion and generosity helps define our school community.
Being part of something bigger at Hammond means embracing opportunities to grow, connect, and make a positive impact. When we work together, our efforts spread far and wide, making a difference in ways we may never fully see but can always be proud of. Thank you for being part of the Hammond community and the many ways you make a difference in the life of our school and of young people.
Sincerely,
Andrew M. North Head of School
CLASS OF 2024 MATRICULATIONS
In true Hammond fashion, the Class of 2024 has been quick to invest themselves outside the classroom and in life beyond our gates.
PROUDLY PRESENTING
The 58th Graduating Class
They are service-oriented – They are Eagle Scouts, recyclers, and fundraisers. They’ve brought food to the impoverished in Israel, nursed kittens at Pawmetto Lifeline, installed tracking collars on rhinos in Kenya, built schools in Tanzania, cared for animals at numerous zoos, and volunteered at hospitals all around Columbia, one student even played the piano in hospital lobbies. They have raised money, served meals, repaired homes, and cared for the less fortunate, both locally and globally.
They are artists – Among them are creative writers, gold cup pianists, visual artists, and instrumentalists. They’ve screened their short films at renowned art schools, starred in public service films, sung in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and created original audio and sound effects for short films.
They seek adventure – They have skydived, driven on the Charlotte Motor Speedway, climbed
Mt. Kilimanjaro, and kept bees. They have snorkeled with whale sharks, studied conservation of tropical raptors in Panama, excavated dinosaur fossils in Yellowstone National Park, and Scuba dived in Bonaire, Florida, and the world’s deepest pool.
They are decorated, committed athletes – Six students will continue their careers on the collegiate level in basketball, football, lacrosse, softball, and volleyball. Too many to count were all-region and all-state, some even SCISA athletes of the year. One student competed in the Jr. NBA Championship Basketball tournament, another in the National Jr. Olympics for Cross Country, and another in some of the top equestrian centers in the country. Among them are black belts, multiyear Tour de Columbia winners, and group fitness instructors.
They are future-focused – They sought out internships in law practices, hospitals, vet clinics,
library rare collections, and the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum. They have been trained as certified nursing assistants and been elected to the General Assembly at Boys State.
They are creators and makers – They have 3D modeled mechanical devices, built computer processors, coded video games, and designed a racing kart and competed in races around the southeast. One student is an online video game content creator, and another placed in the top 1% of a global math art competition.
They are researchers – They’ve studied sharks in Fiji, chemical engineering and toxicology, cancer cachexia, green architecture, data privacy, the Gaza conflict, various forms of mental health therapies including psychedelics and service animals, and Japanese history, culture, and diplomacy. One student was recently published in a peer reviewed journal for his research on pediatric running-prosthetics.
More importantly, they are Skyhawks. Among their most memorable experiences are state championship wins, class trips to Nantahala and Costa Rica, and Early Tech Week. They have particularly loved the traditions that are carried through our school community, experiencing them on both ends, like Fun Day, Country of Study Days, and the many opportunities to connect with Pre-K this year.
The Class of 2024 represents an exceptionally diverse array of identities, lived experiences, and backgrounds. They have impacted life at Hammond more than we can put into words, and they won’t soon be forgotten. Graduates, you have proven that you are ready to chart your own course and apply your talents in any way you wish. We can’t wait to see what you’ll do next. Congratulations.
“ “ They are grateful for the experiences Hammond has afforded them, most especially the community that is difficult to put into words. But one student captured it well when he said, The support given to Hammond students by teachers sets our school apart. Whenever I've gone to extra help or asked a teacher a question, I've felt a genuine sense of care and support.
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SENIORS OF NOTE
Preston Swarat
Owen Thompson
Lauren Vincent Rebecca Waites
Ranti Olatosi
Lucy Peacock
Sam Porter Nickolas Sailer Emmett Sowell
Ana Lucia Muela Kiser RJ Naumann Naeem Newton Simone Okereke
May Malanuk
Peri Moore
Chase McKain Cal McQueen Will McQueen Lily Meetze
Alise Irvin Ella James Samira Khalil Kacy Kraemer
Sophie Homeyer
William Grantland Lilly Hensley Maddy Hines Kayce Hyman
Grace Beacham Mattie Crosland
Natalie Engh Danika Foster Jack Fulda
Anna Katherine Adams Lauren Asbill Lily Balfour Ryan Barnes Rachel Barney
Honors and Awards
JOHN ADGER MANNING AWARD
Named for Hammond founder and first Board Chairman, The John Adger Manning Award is given to the senior who best exemplifies the traits of character, leadership, and enthusiastic participation in the life of Hammond School.
WALKER-CLARKE SCHOLAR/ATHLETE AWARD
The Walker-Clarke Scholar Athlete Award is generously sponsored by the Walker and Clarke families. This award is designed to recognize a senior male and a senior female who have excelled in both academics and athletics during their careers at Hammond.
HERBERT B. BARKS, JR. AWARD
The Herbert B. Barks, Jr. Award is presented to seniors who represent integrity and are recognized by faculty for their witness to exellence and goodness.
CHARLES A. JAMES & CLARA S. JAMES HUMANITARIAN AWARD
The Charles A. James and Clara S. James Humanitarian Award recognizes a member of the senior class who by example leads, inspires, and engages the Hammond community in the pursuit of humanitarian service.
Ryan Barnes Ranti Olatosi
Natlie Engh William Grantland
May Malanuk Lily Meetze
Anna Katherine Adams Cal McQueen
Lilly Hensley
SCISA BILL SIMPSON AWARD
Cal McQueen
The Bill Simpson Award is presented annually by the South Carolina Independent School Association to an outstanding student who best exemplifies the academic and athletic qualities that Bill Simpson represented. Criteria for selection includes: head of school recommendation, SAT/ACT score, student service record, academic and athletic achievement, and coaches' recommendations. The Bill Simpson Award is the highest honor bestowed upon a student athlete in the South Carolina Independent School Association.
COLLEGE BOARD NATIONAL RECOGNITION PROGRAM AWARDEES
Ana Lucia Muela Kiser
Simone Okereke
Ranti Olatosi
Lauren Vincent
COLUMBIA URBAN LEAGUE YOUNG & GIFTED AWARD
Kayce Hyman
Peri Moore
Naeem Newton
Simone Okereke
Ranti Olatosi
Lauren Vincent
KENSLEY FULLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Ella James
Simone Okereke
KINSEY BLACK-JONES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Maddy Hines
Lucy Peacock
HONOR GRADUATES
Anna Katherine Adams •
Lauren Asbill •
Lily Balfour > Grace Beacham > Mattie Crosland
Natalie Engh > Danika Foster
Jack Fulda
William Grantland >
Lilly Hensley >
NATIONAL MERIT FINALISTS
William Grantland
Ranti Olatosi
Preston Swarat
NATIONAL MERIT COMMENDED SCHOLAR
Natalie Engh
U.S.
PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR
Anna Katherine Adams
Ranti Olatosi
DEPARTMENTAL AWARDS
Athletics
English
Fine Arts
History
Math
Science
World Language
CANDIDATES
Grace Beacham and Will McQueen
Preston Swarat
Lauren Asbill and Owen Thompson
Cal McQueen
Ranti Olatosi
Ranti Olatosi
Ana Lucia Muela Kiser
PUBLIC POLICY AND SOCIAL CHANGE GRADUATES
Lauren Asbill
Rachel Barney
Grace Beacham
Natalie Engh
Kacy Kraemer
Cal McQueen
Ranti Olatosi
Preston Swarat
Sophie Homeyer
Ella James >
Samira Khalil
May Malanuk
Chase McKain >
Cal McQueen • Will McQueen
Ana Lucia Muela Kiser
Simone Okereke • Ranti Olatosi •
Nickolas Sailer
Emmett Sowell
Preston Swarat •
Lauren Vincent >
Rebecca Waites
• Denotes Cum Laude Society Induction 2023 | > Denotes Cum Laude Society Induction 2024
PALMETTO FELLOWS
Anna Katherine Adams
Lauren Asbill
Lily Balfour
Grace Beacham
Natalie Engh
Jack Fulda
William Grantland
Lilly Hensley
Alise Irvin
Ella James
Cal McQueen
Ana Lucia Muela Kiser
RJ Naumann
Simone Okereke
Ranti Olatosi
Sam Porter
Nickolas Sailer
Emmett Sowell
Preston Swarat
Anna Katherine Adams
Lauren Shelley Asbill
Lily Emma Balfour
Ryan Isaiah Barnes
Rachel Marian Barney
Grace Alexandra Beacham
James Ellis Berry
Reece Miles Bluestein
Hannah Grace Carrington
Aiden Lee Carter
Coleman Tanner Chastain
William Hudson Clark
Mattison Lynn Crosland
Lucy Ellen Davies
Cass Michael Dorrington
Madison Leigh Hines
Sophia Evelyn Homeyer
William Mood Hudson
Kayce Travese Hyman
Alise Simmons Irvin
Heath Jordan Jackson
Ella Grace James
Samira Irene Khalil
Charles Durham Kirk
Kacy Lauren Kraemer
Victoria Rose Lembo
May Middleton Malanuk
Robert Middleton Malanuk, Jr.
Coleman Glenn Marr
Chase Cummings McKain
Peri Nicole Kathryn Moore
Ana Lucia Muela Kiser
Rawdon Alexander Naumann, Jr.
Naeem Kasiir Newton
Ford Pendleton Nunn
Simone Kamsi Okereke
Oluranti Olusegun Olatosi
Lucinda Louise Peacock
Preston Maddox Pooser
Samuel Derrick Porter
Luis Miguel Ramirez, Jr.
Hampton Edens Redd
Class of 2024
Noah Rial Eargle
Natalie Amelia Engh
Danika Marion Foster
Jack Williams Fulda
William Wallace Grantland
John Potter Hazzard VI
Lillian Grace Hensley
Ben Alexander Heroman
Aiden Duncan McKewan
Calvin Carrington McQueen
William Emerson McQueen
Sarah Louise Meacham
Lillian Duke Meetze
Jackson Augustine Miller
James Edwin Miller III
Riley Elizabeth Montgomery
Rollins Rebekah Reed
Caroline Abigail Rich
Nathan Anderson Riley
Nickolas Karlson Sailer
Zachary Ian Schneider
Emmett Carroll Sowell
Preston Scarborough Swarat
Owen Douglas Thompson
Lauren Ayanna Vincent
Rebecca Thomas Waites
Three who quietly make a big difference.
UNSUNG HEROES UNSUNG HEROES UNSUNG HEROES
At Hammond, there are individuals whose contributions may often go unnoticed despite their profound impact. Amidst the daily hustle and bustle, these unsung heroes quietly dedicate themselves to enhancing the Hammond experience. Three such individuals exemplify this commitment, reminding us that genuine impact arises not from fanfare, but from a steadfast dedication to improving the world around them.
GRACE DRAFFIN MOORE '99
Grace Moore is no stranger to Hammond. The product of a Hammond education, and mother of two Skyhawks, Grace serves as Chief Financial Officer. A unique blend of intellect and grace, she is a study in contrasts. Despite her gentle and caring nature, Grace possesses a brilliant mind that effortlessly navigates complex financial landscapes and makes astute decisions that best benefit the school. Her ability to balance kindness with impressive intelligence sets her apart as the embodiment of compassion and humility balanced by capability.
Grace’s dedication to Hammond is unwavering. Beyond regular hours and on many weekends, she can be found quietly at work ensuring the school’s finances are meticulously managed. Her expertise
touches every area of the school, whether that means juggling multiple budgets, investments, audits, regulatory issues, future planning, or human resources. She is adept at strategically leveraging resources for the betterment of Hammond. Much to her surprise, but not ours, Grace was recognized by NBOA as one of nine business officers nationwide to receive the 2024 Will J. Hancock Unsung Hero Award.
As for us, we'll never stop singing Grace's praises. We are grateful for her kind heart, listening ear, and the determination and grit she commits to the betterment of Hammond.
MONIQUE THOMAS
Monique Thomas, our Director of Transportation and Security, could best be described as the heart and soul of Hammond. She is arguably our greatest ambassador with her warm smile and infectious laughter that enthusiastically greet everyone at the front gate upon arrival to campus. Monique goes above and beyond the call of duty, not just managing traffic flow in and out of campus, but by ensuring smooth logistics for game days and field trips. More importantly, she helps set the stage for everyone who enters our gates. She organizes the security team’s spirited "dress-up" days on special occasions,
always resulting in a smile or chuckle. Monique's genuine kindness and approachability make her a friend to everyone she meets, embodying the spirit of inclusiveness and warmth that defines our school community.
Beyond her professional dedication, Monique is a beloved member of the school community. She is the proud mother of a Skyhawk, Kayla, and is following in her father's footsteps, our beloved Mr. T., who previously served in the same capacity. Monique's boundless energy and positive outlook help set the stage for a warm and inviting welcome to Hammond. Next time you drive through the front gate, be sure to stop and give her a shout-out!
BECCA NORTH
When Andy North became head of school in 2021, little did we know we were getting a twofor-one deal. We quickly learned that Andy’s wife, Becca, was among his greatest assets. In no time, Becca became an invaluable addition to our school community, wholeheartedly embracing the Hammond experience and fully investing herself in the life of the school. One of our biggest cheerleaders, she is naturally warm and gregarious and has dedicated herself to becoming involved in ways that most benefit Hammond and help support Andy’s leadership.
Her frequent presence on campus belies the fact that in addition to staying busy with Skyhawks Dansby and Miller, she is a full-time credit officer who works remotely. On any given morning, Becca can be found helping unload carpool at the Lower School, always with an enthusiastic smile and a Skyhawk welcome. On Fridays, she is a Kiva Diva helping serve lunch to countless lower school students. Numerous athletic events find her cheering the Skyhawks to victory and lending a helping hand wherever needed. We would be remiss if we failed to mention her visits with four-legged Skyhawk, Murphy North, a hit with students of all ages and grades.
Becca moves from carpool to special events that occur during the school day with ease, causing one lower school student to point out that she had been seen in three different outfits in one day. Thank you, Becca, for adopting Hammond as your own … and for making red your new favorite color.
CISSY POPE
SNAP SHOTS
We Won. Athletics bring out the Skyhawk in us all. We cheered our teams to victory from the sidelines and the stands. Our football, lacrosse, and competition cheer brought home the gold!
We Performed. From Beauty and the Beast to Westward Ho and points in between, Skyhawks took to the stage to act, sing, dance, and play. Bravo!
We were patriotic ... in our nation's capital.
We were spirited.
We Traveled.
The 2023-2024 school year found us traipsing around the globe. Whether in Costa Rica, Nantahala, Williamsburg, or Washington, to name just a few. We all traveled to Australia, our country of study, without ever leaving home. But wherever our travels took us, we brought along our Skyhawk pride.
We went to Australia ... down under ... at the 2024 Auction.
We made friends.
'tis the season for graduation
By Reba Hull Campbell '79
As a milestone anniversary of my 1979 Hammond graduation hits this year, old photographs I recently found prompted some reflection over the many life lessons I’ve learned since that day.
A lot has changed since 1979 when my friends and I walked across the gym stage to graduate. Now, each time I visit the campus, I marvel at the high-tech buildings, the leadership opportunities available to students, the diversity of athletic offerings, the variety of academic paths and the world view offered to Hammond students. My contemporaries could never have imagined today’s campus gems like the Innovation Center, the music and art studios, the Kiva and the many sports facilities.
That newly minted 1979 graduate had no idea what was in store for the next 45 years of a winding, yet in retrospect, amazingly aligned career path. I also had no idea of the lessons I would learn along the way – and how so many of those lessons grew from my Hammond experience grounded in critical thinking and curiosity, even all those years ago.
Over the years during this season of graduation and new beginnings, I have fine-tuned a list of life lessons for new graduates, college students and young professionals. I like to revisit and update this list annually as a way to reflect on the past year.
lessons from diploma to today
1. take risks. Be curious and look for the unexpected opportunities. No one can expect perfection. It’s OK to be a beginner. You can often learn more from mistakes than successes. Yes, really, you can.
2. cultivate strong writing skills. Solid writers are the people strong leaders want around the leadership table with them. Be the one who colleagues seek out to clearly articulate ideas on paper using accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation. Even if writing isn’t a priority part of your job, be the one on the team who can use the written word to quickly break down and communicate concepts.
3. go to your boss with a solution, not a problem. Your boss is solving problems all day. Make her life easier by presenting a solution when you present a problem. Even if it’s not the solution that ultimately solves the problem, presenting an idea for a solution keeps your boss from dreading the sight of you at the door or your number on his phone.
4. keep up with people. The students you sit next to in class. Your roommates and their friends. Bosses in your entry level college jobs. Lab partners. Professors. The people you meet through your campus activities. College deans. They will all have contacts within their professional circles. Stay in touch with them. You never know where a new job contact, sales relationship or your next stellar employee will come from.
5. be interested and interesting. Ask good questions and ask them often. Young professionals have a great deal to offer a work environment. Speak up when you have something to offer, but remember to balance your enthusiasm with senior-level colleagues’ experience.
6. keep learning your craft. Find out what your boss or leaders in your profession are reading or listening to (books, blogs, professional publications, podcasts, websites, etc). Seek out professional development opportunities. Pay for them yourself, if necessary. Join professional organizations and get involved.
7. be kind and remember that everyone carries their own sack of rocks. You never know what type of personal issues the co-worker who missed a deadline is dealing with at home or with his family.
8. write thank-you and follow-up notes (handwritten, not emailed). Collect business cards or contact info from people you meet at events, in meetings, or just out and about. A handwritten “nice to meet you” note will set you apart and help people you meet remember you. Technology is good, but the personal touch still matters (along with good penmanship).
9. travel any chance you get. Travel to small towns and big cities across the country and around the world. Don’t put off travel – use your vacation days.
10. plan the work before you work the plan. Having no plan gets you nowhere. Plans will invariably change either by force or circumstance. Be flexible, but have a plan regardless of whether it’s a work project, a trip, a job search, a major purchase or an important life decision.
11. looking busy doesn’t equal being productive. The co-worker who crows about her heavy workload and long hours is probably much less productive than the one who is organized and prioritizes his days.
12. be a good listener and observer. It’s an old adage, but true – there’s a reason we have two ears and one mouth. Watching and listening to others can bring valuable insights to the words you eventually speak.
13. stay in the loop, but avoid the gossip. Be a “boundary spanner”— someone who is respected and trusted by people at all levels of the organization. Just don’t be the one who everyone counts on to know “the dirt.”
14. build your financial literacy. Pay yourself first. If you use direct deposit, set up an allocated amount to go to your savings account from each paycheck. If you get the chance to participate in your company’s 401K, do it! Even that smallest contribution early in your career will help you establish good saving and investment habits. Learn the basics of budgeting, saving and investing. Keep your rainy day fund separate from your retirement dollars.
15. seek out a mentor. I’ve found most mentor relationships happen naturally rather than being established formally. Also, look for “reverse mentoring” opportunities. You can be a resource to your older colleagues. Seasoned professionals can learn a great deal from their younger peers.
16. a good editor will make you shine. Don’t look at having your writing edited as you would look at a teacher correcting a paper. Editing is a collaborative process, and there’s always room for improvement in your writing.
17. move during the day. Regardless of whether you have a desk job, use your lap as your desk on the couch or work outside of a traditional office environment, moving your body and getting your brain engaged in something other than your work is key to sanity and creativity. Walk around the block, stretch once an hour, or put in your earbuds and listen to high energy music.
18. sharpen your speaking skills. A strong speaking presence doesn’t come naturally to everyone, but practice can help anyone improve. Seek out opportunities to speak up in meetings, identify your pain points, practice in front of a mirror, watch speakers you admire. Learn to be the one in the room who can catch – and keep – people’s attention.
19. establish your personal brand. Decide what you want your reputation to be, and let your actions define you. Keep promises and make deadlines. Underpromise and over-deliver. Avoid behavior in your
personal life that could hurt your professional life (even more true today with all the risks of social media in the mix). Remember that details count, especially when getting the details right sets you apart from others.
20. have fun and be creative. Figure out your own version of work/life balance. The “balance” will probably fluctuate daily, but keep focused on creative outlets, exercise and hobbies that let you have fun.
following my own advice
Over the past couple of years, I’ve realized it’s never too late to follow my own advice while launching into my latest professional adventure as a business owner at The Medway Group. I’ve connected my love of writing (#2) and editing (#16) with the relationships I’ve developed over my career (#4, #15) to build a thriving consulting business.
I’ve spent a lot of time evaluating my strengths, identifying opportunities, learning all I could about being an entrepreneur (#6), asking questions and seeking advice (#12), and plotting a plan (#10).
I’m also making sure not to overlook the importance of that balance we hear so much about (#20) by making time for my music, family, friends, and travel (#9). And I keep sending those hand-written thank you notes (#8).
Now, 45 years after walking across the graduation stage at Hammond, I’m grateful for the many opportunities that were seeded by my Hammond experience and led me to where I am today.
Reba’s career experience in Washington, DC and South Carolina includes policy and political campaign leadership positions for local, state and federal candidates; director of a statewide educational foundation; interim president and lobbyist for SCETV; and deputy director of a statewide advocacy organization. Currently, Reba is on the faculty at the Buckley School of Public Speaking and leads The Medway Group, a communications consulting business she founded in 2022. She plays uke, guitar and keyboard in a band and travels whenever possible. She currently serves on the Hammond Board of Trustees and can be reached at reba@themedwaygroup.com.
Campus Notes
A Hammond Homecoming
Lunchtime in the Middle School usually buzzes with the typical chatter and clatter of excited students, but on one spring day, seventh grader Will Parsons was in for a big surprise.
As students were enjoying lunch outside, Henry Hawk wandered through the lunch crowd, pausing for photos with students. As small groups made their way to the star of the show, the real excitement was about to unfold.
After posing for a picture alongside Will and his friends, Henry snapped a salute to the unsuspecting Will, and in true
ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME
2024
fashion, he returned the salute. Seconds later, the hawk head came off, revealing the smiling face of his mother, Major Grace Merry, who had returned from nine months of military duty. Will had asked to be surprised upon her return, and she delivered in style. Amidst a flurry of feathers and excitement, we learned that heroes come in uniforms of all shapes and sizes.
We were proud to play a small part in welcoming Grace home.
Thank you for your service, Major Merry!
On February 9, 2024, the Hammond Athletics Hall of Fame inducted the Class of 2024. The Hall of Fame seeks to recognize individuals who have directly impacted Hammond’s athletic programs, within the school community and beyond. Criteria for nomination includes 1) the student-athlete's success
at Hammond and beyond, 2) the impact of a coach on student-athletes, both on and off the playing field, or 3) the positive contributions made to Hammond athletics. Congratulations to these outstanding Skyhawks who represent the best of Hammond athletics.
Al Hough
Jay Frye '80
Deans '81 & Peter Fawcett Lee Adams '85
Cody Berkeley '11 Kelly Presper '13
Gantt Castles '15
tying the knot Twist Hammond Weddings with a
The journey down the aisle for Anna Penland ’17 and McKay Brabham ’16 began like a scene from a play … the drama department’s 2014 production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, to be exact. At Hammond, Anna was a cheerleader and active in theatre arts, while McKay was more at home on the sports field. Yet, McKay realized that to get to know the aspiring actress better, he needed to step out of his comfort zone and onto the stage. He soon found himself in unfamiliar territory, cast as one of the fairies in A Midsummer Night’s Dream . That spring, he invited Anna to the junior-senior prom—as friends.
Fast forward to college and an annual Christmas party where Anna and McKay reconnected, sparking a long-distance relationship between Auburn and Wofford that
withstood travel between schools and even the pandemic. The two eventually became engaged, and in a touching nod to their first date, Anna discovered she still had the corsage from prom pinned to a high school bulletin board and used one of the corsage's roses in her wedding bouquet. Their love story, worthy of Shakespeare himself, culminated in a July 2023 wedding that can only be described as … a midsummer night’s dream.
Frances Sadler ’15 and Théo Lunte’s love story could easily be the plot of an international romance novel. They first crossed paths at Hammond in 2014 when Frances was a senior and Théo was an international student. After nine years of long-distance dating, globe-
trotting adventures, and studying abroad, Frances exchanged her last name for that of a charming exchange student. The couple tied the knot in Théo’s hometown of Besson, France.
On June 17, 2023, they said "I do" at L’église Saint Pierre et Saint Paul in Souvigny, France. The ceremony was a trilingual affair—in French, English, and German—followed by a cocktail hour at the home of Théo’s family friends. The festivities continued at a reception in Théo’s family’s backyard, where French and American wedding traditions seamlessly blended.
No longer abroad and just down the road, Frances and Théo now call Charlotte, North Carolina home, where Frances is a Civil Engineer with HDR Inc. She holds her Professional Engineer designation and earned an MBA from the University of South Carolina. Théo, on the other hand, is working to establish a United States footprint for TNP, a consulting firm
Anna and McKay Brabham
specializing in strategy and operations.
Who doesn’t love a story about a Southern belle and a French charmer finding their happily ever after?
For Brooks Babson ‘15 and Keller Kissam, a member of the Class of 2013 until eighth grade, the road to “I do” is deeply rooted in the halls of Hammond, a place that’s been part of both families for generations. Between the two of them, their parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins have all attended Hammond. Mothers of the couple, Bibs Haile Babson ’84 and Anne Hopkins Kissam ’84 graduated
alongside one another, while Brooks’ father, John Babson ’83 turned the tassel the year before. Ironically, Bibs, Anne, and Keller Kissam Sr. were in the same first grade class. The ties that bind don’t end there, however. Keller’s greatgrandfather, John Adger Manning, was a founding board member and Hammond’s first board chair. His paternal grandmother, Maud Kissam, taught countless Skyhawks Latin.
A graduate of Clemson University and Winthrop University, Brooks holds a bachelor’s degree in human nutrition and dietetics, and a master’s degree in human nutrition.
She is a Neonatal Clinical Dietitian at Prisma Health. Keller is also a graduate of Clemson University and holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Mechanization and Business. And in yet another Hammond twist, he works at Hay Hill Services, a business owned by Fred Gantt ’83.
An ancient proverb reminds us that an invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet regardless of time, place, or circumstance. We’re guessing it was Hammond red.
CISSY POPE
Frances Sadler and Théo Lunte
Brooks and Keller Kissam Frances and Théo Lunte
Class Notes
1971
The Citadel unveiled a portrait honoring COL Fred L. Price, SCM ’75 as a past chair of the Board of Visitors.
1973
Michael R. Howard has recently published two books, and both are available on Amazon.
1980
The Class of 1980 is looking forward to their upcoming 45th Reunion. While we have not confirmed the date, we do expect it to be in late March of 2025. A good time will be had by all!
1984
Beverly Tuller has resurrected her kitchen shop, Mary & Martha’s, in a much smaller version: a booth at Partager Gallery in the Woodhill/ Target Shopping Center. Please stop by – you are sure to see lots of other alums!
1991
Major James Michael Martin received Hammond's Distinguished Alumni Award in October 2023. Michael served five combat deployments for Operation Ending Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is the recipient of a Combat Action Ribbon, a Bronze
Star, a Navy Accommodation Medal, and three Naval Achievement Medals. He is now retired and living in Edisto with his wife, Michelle.
1993
Mary Moore Keever has been named as the 14th Head of School for Westchester Country Day School.
1994
Walker Daves and his wife, Jill Armbruster, welcomed a son, Charles Walker (“Charlie”), born on January 1st, 2023.
1995
Kelley Myerberg has lived in San Francisco for the past 20 years with her husband, Josh. They have two teenage daughters, Avery (17) and Julia (15). When she's not designing houses or hiking with her dogs, she can be found on the sidelines of a soccer field or in the bleachers
watching a basketball game. As a family, they love to travel, cook and cheer on the Warriors. While she is far from the gates of Hammond, Kelley says she always looks back on her 12 years with fondness and nostalgia. "I had some amazing teachers, discovered my love of travel, and made lifelong friends."
1997
After graduating from University of South Carolina with her PhD in Special Education with a specialization in Transition, Rebecca Smith Hill was hired as a Senior Researcher at USC's Center for Transition Research and Leadership. Becca's research focuses on investigating constructs to enhance quality of life for emerging adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including self-determination, dignity of risk, identity development, and mental health and wellness.
2001
Trevor Knox received Hammond's Young Alumni Award. Trevor has a Master of Business Administration from the University of South Carolina and is presently Vice President of Terminix Service, Inc. He has served and is serving on several boards, both community non-profits and professional. Trevor spearheaded his company’s involvement with Habitat for Humanity. He is also very involved with the United Way of the Midlands and his church, Shandon United Methodist.
2002
Leigh Ellen Lybrand Gray and her husband, Cranston, welcomed Oliver Gaines Gray to their family
on January 12, 2024. Oliver joins big brother Coleman (age 5). Leigh Ellen is an attorney in Greenville.
2003
McNeel Keenan and his wife, Allyson, welcomed Walter McNeel Keenan IV on October 6, 2023.
2007
Lee Lafontant Patterson was appointed to the Richland County First Steps Partnership Board by Richland County Council.
Brittany Bennett Weston and her husband, Quay, welcomed their first child, Eden Alliese, on January 3, 2024. They are currently based in Durham, NC.
2008
Nicki and Austin Hood welcomed their third child, Mark “Hampton”, born on March 14, 2024. Couldn’t be prouder are big sister Amelia (Class of 2037) and big brother and future Skyhawk, Holder!
2009
Mason Castles Chasteen and her husband, Brandon, have two children, Tim (2 1/2) and Henrietta (6 months). The family lives in Asheville where Masons works part time as an oral surgery PA.
Ferris Kennette deTreville and her husband, Chris, welcomed a son, Richard “Hughes”, born July 10th, 2023.
Margaret Deans Fawcett Grantz and her husband, Derrick, welcomed their third future Skyhawk, Shaffer Grantz, born on September 5th, 2024. Shaffer joins big sisters Leni (Class of 2038) and E (Class of 2039).
Lieutenant Grayson Hart received the Young Alumni Award at Hammond’s Homecoming. Grayson could not be there to accept the award, as he was deployed. Close
friend and Hammond alum, Anna Beth Lowrey Huffstetler, accepted on Grayson’s behalf. Grayson is a Lieutenant in the United States Navy. He has served as Naval Intelligence Officer, Flag Intelligence Watch Officer, and as counterterrorism targeting support at US Naval Forces Central Command and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Beth Cotter Thompson and her husband, William Thompson, gratefully welcomed their second daughter, Lanny Eliabeth, on May 13. Big sister, Blair, is enjoying her new role!
2010
Reb Boyd and his wife, Ali, welcomed a daughter, Hadley James, born on September 7, 2023.
Elizabeth Seabrook McCutchen and her husband, David, welcomed a daughter, “Lydia” March, born on August 9th, 2023. Big siblings are James and Anne Sanders!
2011
Guy Castles and wife, Kristy, live in Charleston with their daughter, Carolyn (1 1/2). They are expecting a son this summer. Guy is an attorney with MGC.
Les Cotter and his wife, Katherine, welcomed their first child, Leslie Arlen Cotter IV (Les) on March 16, 2024.
Emily Mungo Frank and her husband, Travis, welcomed a son, Morrison Mungo, born on November 11th, 2023.
Caroline Hill and her husband, Grayson, welcomed a daughter, Lila Anne, born on January 12th, 2024.
Georgia Theodore Williams and her husband, James, welcomed a son, James Angelo, born on December 29, 2023.
2012
Mary Etta Castles Able and her husband, Edward, live in Columbia with their children, Ward (1 1/2) and Charles (6 months). Edward is an attorney with Nelson Mullins.
Emily Bakhaus married Gordon Roberts Wyche at the Shoals Club on Bald Head Island, NC, on September 29, 2023. The couple came to know each other through Emily's older sister, Kat Bakhaus Satterfield '06, and her husband, who are friends and were classmates at the University of Georgia. Emily was honored to have her sisters, Kat Bakhaus Satterfield '06 and Lizzy Bakhaus '09, and former classmates Mimi Marshall Collins and Kathryn Hyatt Hale as bridesmaids. The Bakhauses had other Skyhawks in attendance including Madelon Kneece Dotterer '12, Ali Gray DeLoache Tollison '12, and Georgia Theodore Williams '11.
Cole Brown and his wife, Aubry, welcomed a daughter, Betsy James, born on February 15th, 2024.
2013
Mary Heath Barr and her husband, Capers, welcomed their second daughter, Lucy, on January 15, 2024. Lee (2) is a very proud big sister!
Kelly McCorkle Schweers completed her residency in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics and received her Master of Science in Dentistry from the Medical University of South Carolina in April 2024, where she served as Chief Resident. Kelly joined a private practice on the coast, Myrtle Beach Orthodontics.
2014
Elie Brantley Hart has written a romantasy (romance fantasy), Out of Embers and Shadows, a novel that has been published on Amazon.
2015
Gantt Castles was inducted into the Hammond Athletics Hall of Fame works with Intuitive Surgical in Columbia. His wife, Hannah, is a fourth-year medical student at USC and will begin residency in Internal Medicine this summer.
Ray Castles lives in Columbia with his wife, Caroline. They both work with Hay Hill Services and are expecting their first child at the end of the summer.
Clara Castles and Joe Britt were married May 17, 2024. Clara works as a manager with Two Men and a Truck in Columbia and coaches Hammond's Middle School girls' basketball team.
Bailey Beasley Lanham and Jamie Lanham had baby girl, Eliza James, born on August 11, 2023.
2018
Morgan Walker will be attending Duke University School of Medicine to pursue their joint M.S/M.D program. Morgan graduated from The College of Charleston Honors College, Class of 2022.
Mya Troyer has returned to Hammond to teach prekindergarten.
2019
Lauren Scott graduated Summa Cum Laude from Claflin University’s Honors College. She was a member of the women’s basketball team, and ranked the #1 offensive player for two seasons. She was Rookie of the Year, CIAA All Rookie Team Selection; 8x CIAA Honors; National HBCU Player of the Week; CIAA All Conference Team; College Sports’ Academic All-District Team; College Sports’ Academic AllAmerica Team Finalist; Chi Alpha Sigma Athletic Honor Society; Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society; National Society of Leadership and Success and MUSC AHEC Fellow. Lauren will continue her studies while competing in collegiate basketball at High Point University.
Kate Robinson and Anna Peacock just completed the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu in May. Anna recently finished her first year at MUSC in the physical therapy program and Kate just returned from a ski season in Vail, Colorado where she taught ski school.
2020
John Bailey Moore graduated from Wofford College in May and has contracted and sworn in to the United States Marine Corps. He reports to Officer Candidates School in Quantico in September 2024.
In Memorium
Cathy Gause '72 March 6, 2024
Heath Carll ’73 August 12, 2023
Hunter '78 May 5, 2024
Orr
December 16, 2023
January 11, 2024
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of these members of the Hammond family. They were student-athletes, scholars, artists, and a former member of Hammond's faculty.
Songs from the Heart
Twenty years in the making! This winter, The Select Ensemble, Hammond's premier auditioned choir, celebrated twenty years of sharing the gift of song at home, abroad, and points in between. Two decades of alumni, along with current Select members, gathered to reminisce, reconnect, and once again share songs from the heart. Under the direction of Steven Hillard, the Select has continued to grow, entertaining standing-room-only audiences, including Popes Benedict and Francis.
Jan
Tripp
Cal
'79
Kathleen Thompson
Charleston Alumni Social
Don't
Greenville & Atlanta Alumni Socials
Holiday Social at the Governor's Mansion
Columbia Alumni Social
Reunions
Former faculty at the Class of 1984 reunion: Bob Ellenburg, Kathy Stafford, and Walker Covin
Reunion
Reunion
2023-2024 Hammond Alumni Council Stay Connected! Scan the adjacent QR code to submit a Class Note or update your contact information.
• The Class of 1979's reunion is planned for Saturday, October 5, 2024. For more information, email Reba Campbell at rebahcampbell@gmail.com.
• The Class of 1980 is tentatively planning a reunion for late March 2025.
• The Classes of 1988 & 1989 is planning a joint reunion at the home of Joye and Rob Bethea on Saturday, October 5, 2024.
• The Class of 1994 is holding a reunion at the home of Juliana and Robert King on Saturday, October 5, 2024.
• The Class of 2019 is planning their fifth reunion on Friday, November 29, 2024.
Contact Julie Hudson '94, Alumni Engagement Coordinator at jhudson@hammondschool.org
Alumni Soccer
40 Years
Alums from the Classes of 1988 to 2023 returned for the 40th Annual Alumni Soccer game, one of the biggest turnouts we’ve ever had! The "old guys" faced Hammond’s soccer team and had a blast. This event is beyond soccer; it’s about making memories. We're friends, family, and brothers from different families, creating special bonds.
About three years ago, the women’s alumni team began taking on Hammond’s team, and we look forward to continuing this new tradition.
Looking ahead to the 2025 game, the class of '83 alumni will be 60 years old! Who’s in?!
