now The Magazine of Hammond School
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SUMMER
2022
Graduation Issue
now • Summer 2022
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now • Summer 2022
3 LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL 4 GRADUATING CLASS OF 2022 6 GRADUATION NOTES & NOTABLES
Distinguished Seniors and Awards
Features 10
FINDING THE PERFECT 10
Andy North, 10th Head of School 12 UNFOLDING THE HAMMOND EXPERIENCE
After a brief hiatus, the full Hammond experience returns.
14 BRIEFS 15 MARK HOOD '76
Commencement Address Excerpts 16
CLASS NOTES
Connect and Reconnect
Stay Connected With Us On Social Media!
@hammondschool
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now • Summer 2022
FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL Dear Hammond Families, As I reflect on this year, I find it hard not to include the past three years as a period unto itself when we have experienced many firsts. It was the 2019-2020 school year when we encountered new challenges and opportunities to push Hammond’s resilience and strength. As usual, those tests were met with the fierce yet compassionate might of our great community, a community which I am humbled to serve and steward into the future. Very quickly upon arriving at Hammond in 2019, I was met with a phrase I’ve since heard over and over again… “this has never happened here before”. While the amusement of hearing it still brings a smile to my face, the idea of so many new hurdles was a bit daunting. However, it’s in the time of reflection and review when we can see most clearly. And in this time, I have found those firsts for Hammond to be some of our greatest treasures; they are the mirrors in which we see our true selves: a caring, committed, and united community. We welcomed ESPN and a nation of viewers to Hammond for the first time to watch our football team begin its 2019 season. While this first did not produce the result we wanted initially, it yielded a stronger, dedicated team that captured a State Championship once again. Later that year we faced a pandemic which altered lives worldwide. Hammond had to pivot, using new methods of teaching and learning for the first time. Our response was swift, effective, and unified as we adapted to a new, temporary normal. And, while the country’s opinions varied, we were thankful for the community support as we successfully navigated a significant first together, as Hammond. As we look back on this past year, we were met once again with yet another first that would test our school. The fire in the lower school did much to put us briefly on our heels. While our worst fears were abated, as no one was harmed, we were still faced with an immense challenge, requiring the strength of our great community once again. In true Hammond fashion, our teachers and staff showed resilience and grace, welcoming lower school students back on campus after only one day. We were flooded with an outpouring of support in the forms of service, gifts, and love from the Hammond community, which helped nourish our spirits and inspire our recovery. Now, as the reconstruction of the lower school building and the restoration of our people’s energy continue, we look back with gratitude for the community which sustained us through another first. As I conclude my first year as Head of School, embracing the firsts that have come before and those that lie in the future, there will be times when “this has never happened here before” will be uttered again, or it will be our duty to inspire a new first ourselves. Hammond is prepared to meet those new adventures with a foundation rooted in strong tradition, a culture of looking ahead, and most importantly, a community like no other, united in mission and support for one another. Sincerely,
Andrew M. North Head of School
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MATRICULATIONS The 56th Graduating Class of Hammond will be attending these fine colleges and universities, both at home and across the country. Anderson University Auburn University Auburn University, Honors Baylor University Brandeis University Clemson University Clemson University, Bridge Clemson University, Honors College of Charleston, Honors Connecticut College Elon University Flagler College Fordham University Furman University George Washington University Hollins University Louisiana State University Midlands Technical College 4
Newberry College Northeastern University, Honors Oakwood University Oberlin College Oklahoma State University Oklahoma State University, Honors Purdue University, Honors Savannah College of Art & Design, Atlanta St. Francis College Texas Christian University The Citadel Tulane University, Honors United States Air Force Academy United States Military Academy, West Point University of Alabama, Honors University of Alabama, Huntsville
University of Colorado, Boulder, Honors University of Miami University of Michigan University of Mississippi University of North Carolina, Asheville University of Richmond University of South Carolina University of South Carolina, Bridge University of South Carolina, Honors University of South Carolina, Upstate University of Tennessee, Martin University of Virginia University of Washington Wake Forest University Wofford College
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PROUDLY PRESENTING
The 56th Graduating Class CLASS STATS
76
28
Graduates
Honor Graduates
1269
AVG SAT
Perceptions
29
100
states
schools
GPA of 4.5+
DC, England, France
27.5
AVG ACT
19 states
43
schools
Acceptances
District of Columbia
Attending
SAT
30% Palmetto Fellows
4 Service Academy Appointments
$10.7 Merit Scholarships
70 took 291 AP Exams
49% 51% attending in-state colleges
attending out-of-state colleges 5
Seniors of Note
Graduation Notes & Notables
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now • Summer 2022
Leo Addeo
Sylvia Adongo
Tyler Albrecht
Merritt Brazell
Taylor Brown
Jackson Butler
Amelia Gandhi
Sallie Grimsley
Sarah Haselden
Conan Li
Jack McCall
Laura Moshier
Tyra Myers
Mary Kate Penninger
Alden Ridley
Emi Bouknight
James Marshall Bradley
Benjamin Cao
Anna Grace Fulda
Alysa James
David Johns
Camille Kriistnik
Maggie McKain
Amber Meeker
Lyndsay Moore
Michael Moran
Becca Nelson
Jada Okereke
Lucy Mills Sammataro
John Graham Cantey
Rhett Brabham
Caroline Sanders
Mills Owen
McNally Sowell
Abby Park
Peyton Vidrine 7
Honors and Awards SCISA BILL SIMPSON AWARD Michael Moran 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 the following: head of school recommendation, SAT score, class rank, student service record, academic and athletic achievement, coaches' recommendations, and community service. The Bill Simpson Award is the highest honored bestowed upon a student athlete in the South Carolina Independent School Association.
JOHN ADGER MANNING AWARD Lyndsay Moore Alden Ridley Named for Hammond founder and first Board Chairman, The John Adger Manning Award is given to the seniors who best exemplify the traits of character, leadership, and enthusiastic participation in the life of Hammond School.
HERBERT B. BARKS, JR. AWARD Camille Kristinik Abby Park Lucy Mills Sammataro The Herbert B. Barks, Jr. Award recognizes individuals of integrity–students who are quiet witnesses to compassion, and who because of his or her unassuming ways, might be overlooked.
WALKER-CLARKE SCHOLAR/ATHLETE AWARD Michael Moran Peyton Vidrine 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.
CHARLES A. JAMES & CLARA S. JAMES HUMANITARIAN AWARD Amelia Gandhi Jada Okereke The Charles A. James and Clara S. James Humanitarian Award recognizes members of the senior class who by example lead, inspire, and engage the Hammond community in the pursuit of humanitarian service.
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLAR David Johns
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NATIONAL MERIT COMMENDED SCHOLARS Michael Moran • Mills Owen
COLUMBIA URBAN LEAGUE YOUNG & GIFTED AWARD Sylvia Adongo Sidney Evering Tyra Myers
Jada Okereke Cam Scott
COLLEGE BOARD NATIONAL RECOGNITION PROGRAM SCHOLARS Sidney Evering
Jada Okereke
KINSEY BLACK-JONES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Rhett Brabham
KENSLEY FULLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Sarah Haselden
ATHLETIC AWARD Jack McCall Tyra Myers
DEPARTMENTAL AWARDS English
Sylvia Adongo
Fine Arts
Taylor Brown
History
Merritt Brazell
Math
Tyler Albrecht
Science
Amelia Gandhi
World Language Sylvia Adongo, Camille Kristinik
PUBLIC POLICY AND SOCIAL CHANGE GRADUATES Sylvia Adongo Amber Meeker Emi Bouknight Lyndsay Moore Merritt Brazell Abby Park Amelia Gandhi Alden Ridley
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HONOR GRADUATES Leo Addeo Sylvia Adongo > Emi Bouknight Merritt Brazell > Jackson Butler Benjamin Cao >
Anna Grace Fulda Amelia Gandhi • Sallie Grimsley Sarah Haselden • Alysa James • David Johns >
Camille Kristinik • Conan Li Maggie McKain Amber Meeker Lyndsay Moore • Michael Moran •
Laura Moshier Becca Nelson Jada Okereke • Mills Owen Abby Park > Alden Ridley >
Lucy Mills Sammataro Caroline Sanders > McNally Sowell Peyton Vidrine >
• Denotes Cum Laude Society Induction 2021 | > Denotes Cum Laude Soiety Induction 2022
PALMETTO FELLOWS Leo Addeo Sylvia Adongo Tyler Albrecht James Marshall Bradley Merritt Brazell
Jackson Butler John Graham Cantey Benjamin Cao Amelia Gandhi Sarah Haselden
Alysa James David Johns Camille Kristinik Maggie McKain Lyndsay Moore
Michael Moran Becca Nelson Jada Okereke Mills Owen Abby Park
Mary Kate Penninger Alden Ridley Caroline Sanders McNally Sowell
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Finding the Perfect 10 Andy North, 10th Head of School
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Last summer, we bid a fond farewell to former Head of School Chris Angel and warmly welcomed our 10th head of school, Andy North. Having served as head of middle school since 2019, he was no stranger to the Hammond family and had developed a rapport with faculty, parents, and students alike. A native of Florence, South Carolina, he is a product of independent education and established himself as a thought leader in the industry, after successfully serving in numerous administrative roles at Episcopal School of Acadiana in Louisiana.
ship, steady the course, and focus our thoughts on the future. He united the school community, and out of this most challenging of times, we witnessed the beauty and magic of the Hammond family. Andy was the touchstone by which we measured our success and our progress. He rallied alongside the lower school faculty and staff, through whose hard work and dedication, the youngest of our students missed only one day of school before returning to a warm welcome from the entire Skyhawk family.
Andy’s appointment, and the start of the 2021-2022 school year, figuratively signaled a turn of the tassel for Hammond–the beginning of a new journey and the start of a fresh chapter waiting to be penned.
By comparison, one of the most humorous challenges we faced this year was the potential for snowfall that found schools and businesses across Columbia preemptively closing for what promised to be significant accumulations. A staunch proponent of classroom time, cancelling school was one of the more difficult decisions Andy had to make. Snow eventually fell, but on a Friday evening, with Andy vowing, “Never again.” We all knew we had seen our last snow day.
Throughout the course of the year, Andy proved himself a thoughtful decision maker whose focus is always on the student’s best interest, while his early years as an English teacher naturally make him a fervent champion of teachers. He has brought a gracious humility to the job, leading by example and with a fiercely competitive nature. For all his grit and determination, however, what has most endeared him to faculty and students alike is his genuine care and concern for this school community. In looking back over the past year, it was one marked by change, challenge, and celebration…all in equal measure. Starting the school year behind the backdrop of a pandemic was challenging at best, but chief among Andy’s priorities was the slow unfolding of as much of the Hammond experience as possible…those unique programs and opportunities that were sidelined over the course of the past 18 months. We saw the return of Fridays Together in the lower school fitness center, welcomed parent volunteers back to campus, returned to the theatre to applaud arts performances and share assemblies, we packed the stands and bleachers, and began to travel once again– experiential education returned. We re-discovered the power of being together and recognized our new normal was actually our old normal. We celebrated. If difficult times don’t create character, but instead reveal character, we learned much about the character of Andy in the wake of the lower school fire. His confidence and calm demeanor served to right the
In reflecting on 2021-2022, we have been remarkably enriched by the North family. The servant’s heart from which Andy leads has bode well for this school community. He has embraced the Hammond experience with designs on an even greater future. His wife, Becca, has endeared herself to everyone she meets, and although her frequent presence on campus would beg one to differ, she is a full-time credit officer who works remotely and views her supporting role as one of involvement. Miller (3rd) and Dansby North (7th) have likewise found a home at Hammond and are lifelong Skyhawks already.
“I am humbled and honored to be head of school at a place as special has Hammond. The hallmark of a great school is one that continuously strives to provide an unmatched educational experience and one that fosters world class academic, athletics, and arts programs, while developing students who will make a difference in their communities and world.” – Andy North, Head of School As we look forward with anticipation and back with pride, the future looks exceedingly bright. Hammond is indeed fortunate to have found the perfect 10 in Andy North. From the entire Hammond family ... thank you. -CISSY POPE 11
applauding the stars being early techies This fall, the smell of burning campfires and the sound of river cane flutes signaled the return of Early Tech Week to its rightful place in November. An anxiouslyawaited rite of passage for 5th graders, the week transported students to a bygone era where they learned primitive technology skills that brought the curriculum to life.
Footlights replaced starlight as we once again returned to the theatre. The drama and choral departments filled the house, showcasing the talent within our student body. They wowed and bowed and we applauded.
packing the stands Pep rallies returned and school spirit abounded. The Skyhawks took to the court, the field, the diamond, the mat, and the track. We celebrated alongside one another and cheered the teams to victory. The Varsity Football Team scored yet another ring after clinching the state title. We painted the town red.
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Unfolding the
Hammond Experience
"The Hammond Experience can best be defined by teachers who give generously, students who avail themselves of a wide range of opportunities, a school community that embraces a shared mission and vision, and the unique programs that help prepare students for the next leg of the journey. Collectively, this is Hammond at its best."
Among the greatest lessons 2020 taught us were the importance of the student-teacher relationship, the value of togetherness, and the virtue of developing an appreciation for the things we take for granted ... more often than not, they are what we value most. After a brief hiatus, this year found us unfolding components of what we have come to call the Hammond experience–those defining moments and programs that collectively differentiate us as a school. We celebrated the return of parent volunteers on campus, school trips, plays and concerts in the theatre, and a packed gymnasium. We celebrated all that makes us Hammond.
going the distance socially The auction returned, much to the delight of over 600 attendees who took the distance out of social. The Icelandic-themed auction, Northern Exposure, was much hotter than it was cold. We were happy to be together for a great cause!
traveling ahead There may be no place like home, but we found leaving home was even better. Starting with the Freshman Trip and continuing through the spring, we landed in Williamsburg, the Barrier Islands, Tekoa, Costa Rica, and points in between.
being the best The year 2021-2022 was a study in contrasts when compared with the past two years. Much of what makes Hammond unique returned. It was the best ... and so were we!
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briefs Naturalist-in-Residence Tom Mancke Recognized by South Carolina House of Representatives In a surprise presentation at the Lower School, Representatives Kirkman Finlay and Beth Bernstein presented Tom Mancke with a resolution from the House of Representatives that reads in part, "To recognize and honor acclaimed master naturalist, craftsman, and educator Tom Mancke of Richland County and to express the appreciation of the South Carolina House of Representatives for his contributions to preserving the natural history, rich outdoor heritage, and centuries-old crafts tradition of this great State...Tom is beloved for his personal charm and kindness, as well as his knowledge of the natural world, and also shares his expertise with various adult groups beyond the halls of Hammond. Whereas South Carolina is blessed to claim this multi-gifted educator as a native son, and the House is pleased to honor him publicly for a career that has enriched the lives of so many." Mr. Mancke has been a fixture on Hammond's campus for nearly 33 years and has introduced countless students of all ages to the natural world around us. From nature walks near the Lower School and on South Campus, to excursions in his mini yellow school bus destined for area wetlands, Tom has been integral to bringing the classroom into the world.
› $730,000!
It was a banner year, and you helped knock it out of the ballpark! The Annual Fund is the most important contribution you can make ... it benefits every Skyhawk, every day, in every way. It's not too early to give to the 2022-2023 Annual Fund. Scan the code to help load the bases for another grand slam!
By the Book When it comes to reading and writing, Mrs. Schuch's 7th grade students wrote the book. Each year, these middle school students pen their own stories and return to the Lower School to read to the first grade. More than a few of her students have gone on to publish their own books. 14
DUE RECOGNITION Rarely is the yearbook, The Phoenix, dedicated to an individual outside of the classroom. This year, however, was an exception ... and one long overdue. Much to the excitement of the entire Hammond family, and the surprise of Director of Security and Transportation Monique Thomas, this year's annual was dedicated in her honor. Monique greets us at the Welcome Center each and every day with her signature smile and a warm greeting. The dedication read in part, " Mrs. Monique Thomas is a vital part of the Hammond family, and we always look forward to seeing her welcome us home each morning. We could not be more excited to honor her with the dedication of this year's annual."
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Mark Hood '76
Commencement Address Excerpts What do I hope you’ll take away from this today? I leave you with three things: 1) Be a lifelong learner. Hammond does an excellent job of this. You have more information at your fingertips than any generation in history. Continue to be curious about the world and the people around you, but also learn from your mistakes. My grandfather, who taught me to build, was a quiet man who didn’t say much. He told me many times, “Son, there’s nothing wrong with making a mistake. Just don’t make the same one twice.” Continue to learn. Continue to improve each day. 2) Attitude. Only you can decide how you will attack each day. If you get up each day and decide I’m going to make the world a better place today, and you do it again tomorrow, you will soon learn that little things mean a ton. It will become a habit and part of your daily ritual. You, and only you, should control your attitude each day. Do not give up control of that to others. You will also pull others down with a bad attitude. 3) Effort. In all my years of running a business, coaching, and giving advice, I’ve never heard anyone say, “I wish I had not done my best.” I’ve had many come who have said they wish they’d given more effort. Do not have regrets about your effort. You’ll be surprised how often doing your best will get you across the finish line. Continuous learning, a positive attitude, and your best effort will take you a long, long way. I challenge each of you to start writing your own story today. No two of you will have the same story, but they will all be interesting. As you write this story, I will encourage you, as you have been encouraged by Hammond, to get out of your comfort zones, challenge yourselves, and do not be afraid of failure. The only failure is in not trying. When you fail, get back up and try again. Do not be afraid of changes you cannot control. You will be surprised at how often you will succeed. I challenge you today to make the world a better place with your continuous learning, your positive attitude, and your best effort. I am confident you will ... as you move out of the safety of Hammond School. I wish you the best and I will be on the sidelines cheering for you, waiting to see the stories you’re about to write. Make us proud. Go Skyhawks! God Bless.
"Mark and his wife, Susan, have demonstrated a deep and unwavering commitment to Hammond. As many of you know, we experienced a fire in one of the lower school buildings on the evening of February 16th this year. After Andy North arrived on campus that evening, he turned around and standing right behind him was Mark Hood…hardhat on, wearing a neon yellow construction vest, and ready to assist in any way possible. This is just one of many examples that demonstrate the importance of Hammond in the life of their family. Words simply cannot convey how deep the relationship runs with Hammond and the Hood family." - Read Folline, Chairman of the Board of Trustees 15
Class Notes 1979
Reba Hull Campbell launched The Medway Group, a communications consulting business focusing on PR projects and government affairs. She resides in Columbia. Margie Heggie, and her husband, David Estefano, recently celebrated the graduation of their son, David, who graduated last month along with the Hammond Class of 2022.
practice and an active member of the firm's class and collective action practice. Hagood and his family reside in Columbia, SC.
1990 Dr. Nicholas Papadea was named the 2022 President of South Carolina Dental Association.
1994 Michael Edens was promoted to Market President of Columbia for First Reliance Bank in April 2022. He is now responsible for expansion of the Columbia Market as well as overseeing sales management and community development.
Riverbanks Zoo Society Board. Emily and her husband, Jody, are parents to Barrett (3) and Eloise (a Hammond rising second grader). In addition to these volunteer roles, she also gives back to her community by serving on the executive committee of the Salvation Army of the Midlands Advisory Board and as a member of the Hammond Ambassador Program and Alumni Council.
2003 McNeel Keenan and Allyson Evancheck were married on May 21, 2022, at the Daughters of the American Revolution in Washington, D. C.
1995 1983 Caroll Weston married Dr. D. Langston Powell on November 18, 2021.
Pebbles Turbeville received her Doctorate in Sports Management with an emphasis in Leadership. Dr. Turbeville is executive director of Horses and Humans Research Foundation (HHRF). J. Hagood Tighe was sworn in as president of the South Carolina Bar. The ceremony was presided by U.S. District Court Judge J. Michelle Childs during the Bar’s Annual Assembly at Central Energy in Columbia on May 12, 2022. At Fisher Phillips, Hagood is co-chair of the firm’s Wage and Hour 16
Jane Ruschky married Eric Kirkland in May 2022. The couple resides in Columbia, SC.
1997 Leigh and Lander Cason recently acquired Closet Factory which has served Columbia, Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Augusta, Georgia for over 20 years. Residents have trusted Closet Factory to install thousands of custom closets and home organization systems including pantries, garages, home offices, murphy beds and more.
2004 Margot Lane Strasburger married in August 2021 and celebrated with loved ones in May 2022. She has recently returned to Columbia for an opportunity at the South Carolina Arts Commission. Ashton Lunceford and Johnny Hanson were married August 28, 2021 in the Santa Ynez Valley, California. The couple resides in Nashville, Tennessee.
2001 Emily Brady Bedenbaugh was elected President-Elect of the Junior League of Columbia for the 2023-2024 year celebrating the League’s centennial. She was also appointed to serve on the
2005 Anne Farish Cheatham and her husband, Drew, are thrilled with the birth of their daughter, Nancy Farish Cheatham, born on February 15, 2022. Big brothers George and Thomas are smitten with the new addition to the family as well. now • Summer 2022
2006 Mallory Miller married Robert Clark Munn on October 30, 2021, in Columbia, SC.
Caroline Cotter Moluf and her husband, Trey, welcomed a baby girl, Elizabeth Sims Moluf (Ellie), on May 27, 2022. Ellie joins big brother George (2).
Bo Hart and his wife, Katie, welcomed baby girl Allison (Allie) Jane Hart on June 2, 2022. The family resides in Columbia, SC. Proud grandparents are Betty and Ree Hart ’73.
2008 Nicki Priester Hood and her husband Austin Hood, welcomed a baby boy, Holder McKee, on July 6, 2021. He joins big sister Amelia (3). The family resides in Columbia, South Carolina.
Genni Choate Threet, her husband, Trevor, and big sister, “Stalvey” welcomed baby boy, David Douglas Threet, “Dougie” in September 2021. The family of four resides in Fort Mill, SC. Walker Inabinet and his wife, Chandler, welcomed their second child, John Walker Inabinet on April 11, 2022. The family of four resides in Columbia, SC.
Ali Brown and her husband, Taylor Brown ’09, welcomed a baby boy, Lewis Childs Brown, on April 28, 2022. Lewis joins big brother, Tee. Proud grandparents are Kathy and and Bubba Hymson ’77.
Kat Bakhaus Satterfield and her husband were blessed with a baby girl, Lillian Kearns Satterfield (Kearns), in March 2022.
2009 Ella Hyatt Priddy and her husband, along with big sister Hampton (2.5), welcomed baby brother Sam in September 2021. The family of four resides in Columbia, SC.
Kelsey Chow was escorted to the premier of Top Gun: Maverick by her own Top Gun, her father, former Hammond Trustee and Brigadier General, Dr. Jim Chow.
2007 Lightsey Laffitte Jett and her husband, Kevin, welcomed their third son, Jacob Lightsey Jett on January 21, 2022. 17
2009 Thomas Hydrick married Logan Douglass on January 22, 2022. Following their marriage, Thomas and Logan will reside in Columbia.
Lilie Jane Hudson married Bobby McCooey on February 26, 2022. The two live in New York City, where Lilie Jane works as an Assistant Principal at Democracy Prep Harlem High School.
2011 Parker Herring Harding and her husband along with big brother, Grady, welcomed Eliza Jane on May 6, 2022.
2013 Beth Cotter Thompson and her husband, William, joyfully welcomed their daughter, Laura Blair Thompson (Blair), into this world on March 6, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Katie Hood married Alex Whinnery on April 23, 2022, at the home of her parents, Karen and Vince Hood ‘73 in Columbia. Katie planned the wedding with help from her parents. Her mother, Karen, owner of Perfect Petals, arranged the flowers. The bridal party was full of family and friends, including several other Hammond alums: Laura Hood Richards ’06, Elizabeth Stuckey Delgado ’10, and Alexandra Little ‘10. Katie and Alex are incredibly happy and reside in Columbia.
Mary Heath Barr and her husband, Capers, joyfully welcomed a baby girl, Lee, on March 3, 2022. The family of three lives in Mount Pleasant.
Roo Daniels married Meaghan Carrigan on May 28,2022, in Greenville, South Carolina. In the wedding were his brothers, Christopher Daniels '07 and Justin Daniels '09. Also, Braydon Shockley, Grant Hensley, Sam Ulmer, and Jake Nidiffer (all Class of 2013). Roo and Meaghan live in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
2010 Rachel Hanna married Dillon Morgan on November 13, 2021, in Columbia.
Norris Lightsey Laffitte III and his wife, Rachel, welcomed Norris Lightsey Laffitte IV (Chip) on May 24, 2022. Chip joins big sister Nell. The family resides in Kansas City, Missouri. Proud grandparents are Helen and Tuck Laffitte ’75.
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Kelly McCorkle Schweers graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental Medicine with a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in May 2021. She graduated as the First Honor Graduate and was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the national dental honor society. Kelly is continuing her dental education and is currently attending the Orthodontic Residency Program at MUSC. Caroline Penland, married Kyle Clark on March 12, 2022, in DeBordieu, SC. Other Hammond alums in the wedding were Mary Heath Barr, Kelly McCorkle Schweers and Lauren Nelson Sheorn (all from the class of 2013). Anna Penland ‘17 served as maid of honor. Caroline is the daughter of Rebecca Duffie Penland ’82 and her husband, Mike.
Aiyanna Johnson passed her Family Nurse Practitioner state certification exam in April 2022. She is now a board certified FNP ready to serve patients in her community.
Davis King works for Alcon, one of the global leaders in the eye-care industry. He recently became a Manager in the Government Pricing group and operates as part of the U.S. Surgical Finance team. Davis resides in Fort Worth, TX.
2015 Elizabeth Haas married Christian Greene in Columbia, SC on February 5, 2022.
2016 Taylor Doggett was promoted to Communications Director for U.S. Representative David E. Price (NC-04).
Drew Moore and his wife, Sarah, were both promoted to the rank of Navy Lieutenant on June 1st, 2022, after four years of active-duty as Naval officers. Drew is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy Class of 2018 and is currently stationed at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Honolulu, Hawaii with his wife. Drew is a Cryptologic Warfare Officer assigned to a Cyber Protection Team at Navy Information Operations Command, Hawaii. Garrett Ayers graduated May 12, 2022, from Virginia Theological Seminary. Garrett received the Anglican Communion Prize awarded to a graduating student who has shown an outstanding commitment to discerning the mission of God through World Anglicanism. Garrett is joining the clery staff at St. John's Episcopal Church in Columbia.
2018 Morgan Walker graduated with honors from the College of Charleston on May 7, 2022. She is planning to apply to medical school for fall 2023 admission.
2014 Faythe Goins graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine.
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2018 Mya Troyer graduated from Clemson in Spring 2022 with a BA in Early Childhood Education and will be teaching Kindergarten at Lowcountry Christian School in Charleston, SC. Sumant Rao graduated from the University of Pennsylvania summa cum laude with distinction in English Honors. He will continue his education at Columbia University with the Doctoral program in the Department of English and Comparative Literature. He has been named a Marjorie Hope Nicolson
Fellow in recognition of his impressive credentials as well as the promise that his department identified in his future development as a scholar, pedagogue, and researcher. While at UPenn, he won the 2022 L. Barry Pick Prize for Best Undergraduate Thesis: "The Relational Body in Margaret Cavendish's Philosophy: 'New Materialism' and a Feminist History of Science," the 2022 Dosoretz Family Prize: "Commodity Fetishism and Gendered Economic Exclusion in Isabella Whitney's "Wyll and Testament," the 2021 College Alumni Society Henry Reed Prize and the 2020 Nancy Rafetto Leach Sweeten Prize. He served as the president of the UPenn Government and Politics Association. Sumant attributes his excellent teachers at Hammond!
Passings Priscilla Kelley We regret to announce the passing of former Upper School English teacher, Priscilla Kelley, on January 25, 2022. Ed Farr '73 With sadness, we announce the passing of Ed Farr on May 6, 2022.
Alumni Reconnecting Stay Connected!
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Gus Brabham '90: From Best Looking to Board Chair Looks may not be everything, but sometimes they are. Just ask Gus Brabham, who was recently named to chair Hammond's Board of Trustees. This is only the second time an alumnus has held the distinction, with Fred Price '71 serving from 2001-2003. A son of former Board Member Mickey Brabham, and his wife, Gene, Gus is a lifelong Skyhawk, starting Hammond as a first grader and most recently receiving the 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award. He and his wife, Heather, are the proud parents of three Hammond alums: McKay '16, Clay '19, and Nates '22. Gus is a partner and owner of Brabham Griffin Insurance, a firm founded in 2018. Throughout his years at Hammond, as a student and as a parent, Gus has been an involved and active member of the school community. From the looks of things, we are fortunate to pass the gavel to this former senior superlative, senior class president, and distinguished alum.
Parting Shots
Bradley Hollingsworth '81, Hank Eddy '81, Deans Richardson Fawcett '81, Bo Kapp '82
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Andy North, William and Lane Haselden '88, Bo Hart '07
Charleston Alumni Social 2022
now • Summer 2022
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