Pillars Magazine Fall 2022

Episcopal High School was founded in 1983 as a four‑year coeducational day school within the Episcopal Diocese of Texas.

ACCREDITATION

Independent Schools Association of the Southwest

MEMBERSHIPS

National Association of Independent Schools

National Association of Episcopal Schools

Council for the Advancement and Support of Education

Educational Records Bureau

College Board

National Association for College Admission Counseling

Texas Association for College Admission Counseling

Southwest Preparatory Conference

MISSION

Episcopal High School, founded and guided by the Diocese of Texas, is an inclusive and joyful Christian community where students discover and develop their individual talents through the Four Pillars – academics, arts, athletics, religion – preparing for meaningful lives in service to others.

ADMISSION

Episcopal High School admits students of all races, colors, and national/ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities accorded or made available to students at the School. The School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national/ethnic origin in the administration of its educational and admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, or athletic and other school‑administered programs.

ALUMNI

Ashley Long along@ehshouston.org 713 512 3478

Episcopal High School 4650 Bissonet Houston, TX 77401

Please share your news with the EHS Alumni Association. Send information to: facebook.com/groups/EHSHoustonAlumni instagram.com/ehs_alumni linkedin.com/grps/Episcopal‑High‑School‑Houston‑Alumni‑1029617

The Episcopal High School Magazine, Fall 2022

COVER

Photo by Charles Holt

SAVE THE DATE

The Greatest Knight! Auction 02-24-23

Alumni Weekend 04-14-23

Commencement 05-14-23

EHS Cross Country teammates encourage each other at Texas A&M Invitational.

Photo by Jessica Ferdinand

FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear EHS Family,

At the conclusion of her interview for this issue of Pillars, Senior Paige Naughton offers good advice. She speaks of her experience doing technical theater while at EHS, and her words capture the mindset that causes us to thrive: “Every setback is a chance to try something new and every mistake is an opportunity to learn and get better.” Our commitment to the Four Pillars ensures that all our students regularly try something new, and most graduate with experiences like Paige’s: “I signed up for a lot and just stuck with what I fell in love with.”

Episcopal High School’s mission calls for students to develop their individual talents and prepare for meaningful lives in service to others. They live this mission every day in ways both visible and invisible, and they live it with great purpose and greater enthusiasm. Our technical theater program, of which Paige is a part, is a wonderful illustration. Essential to any production, they are rarely seen or heard by the audience; in fact, we hope that they are neither seen nor heard. Instead, they support those who are seen and heard. Anywhere from 20-40 students strong, the stage crew labors in the background, the foundation that allows the actors to shine.

EHS is filled with Knights like Paige, who work with faculty mentors like Paul Revaz, our Director of Technical Theater. Paige speaks eloquently of the ways in which Paul mentored her during her time at School, shaping her into a “better leader and even a better person over the years.” This relationship between teacher and student encapsulates the virtues of EHS. Paige concludes her description of their relationship by saying, “He’s believed in me since the very first even when I didn’t believe in myself; looked out for me when I was struggling; and pushed me to get better every show no matter how confident I was. If nothing else, he truly hammered home the idea that there’s always more to learn.”

We continue to live our mission every day, just as we have since we were founded. The particulars of our lives at School may be different than they were forty years ago, but the essence is the same. Schools are, after all, living things, and we grow and adapt to the world around us just as our students do. This year is no different whether we consider the retirement of long-time staff member and quintessential Knight, John Colello, or the addition of programs like the financial literacy course to our math program detailed within, or the growth in our student health and wellness team now comprised of two nurses, two School counselors, a Choices education specialist, and three chaplains. The details may look a little different, but the essence remains unchanged. No wonder EHS stands out.

Have a Happy Christmas, and Go Knights, Ned Smith

LEADING BY EXAMPLE AND WITH A PASSION FOR EDUCATION

Q&A with Principal Antonio “Tony” Avalos, Ed.D.

Dr. Avalos joined EHS as the Principal in July of 2022. He comes to the School with more than 20 years of experience in education and a commitment to serving the students, faculty, and families in our community. Dr. Avalos earned a bachelor of science degree in psychology from the University of Texas at El Paso, his master’s degree in educational leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University, and a doctorate in education from the University of Houston in the area of professional leadership.

Tell us a little about your career path and what led you to EHS.

Initially, I studied hard and intended to go into the medical field. When I graduated with a Bachelor of Science, I considered several paths, but I asked myself, “Would I enjoy that?” The answer was “No.” Since I had successfully tutored my peers in graduate school, it was the easiest connection to education. I knew I could work with high school students and I had mentors who saw leadership skills in me. I researched career paths in education and soon discovered my passion.

How do you motivate people?

It is important to listen to people’s concerns and needs and through conversation identify ways to address them. I have found that motivation comes when people work together to solve problems and find better ways of doing things.

Do you have someone who holds you accountable?

Yes… our head of school Mr. Smith and my wife.

When you walk across campus, what stands out to you and makes you think “This is EHS!”

I feel I am an old soul at heart and am set in tradition. These were qualities instilled in me back when I attended high school. When I walk around campus, I think about the traditions, current and new, that will have an impact on students’ lives and approach to life. The faculty and staff who have helped create this campus and all of its opportunities for students to learn have done a wonderful job ensuring that both students and teachers have every resource needed for students to excel at EHS.

What do you do in your free time?

I try to spend as much time with my wife as possible. We take walks together, eat our meals together (for the most part), try to do something fun every weekend. I enjoy listening to music. My interests range anywhere from jazz to heavy metal.

Tell us about a vacation or trip that meant a lot to you. My favorite trip so far has been our trip to Puerto Rico for our honeymoon. It was great to pull away from the busyness of work and enjoy quality alone time with my wife. We hope to return someday soon to do some of the activities we were not able to do during our first trip.

Have you ever met someone famous?

I don’t know if meet is quite the correct word but I shook Lou Ferigno’s (The Incredible Hulk) hand when I ran into him at an Oscar De La Hoya boxing match. I also shook JJ Watt’s hand at a sandwich shop by NRG.

If you could travel back in time, what period of history would you choose?

I would go back to the year I entered undergrad at UTEP and do things completely differently during my freshman year. Knowing what I know now, I would have entered the education field straight out of college instead of ten years later. I have truly enjoyed my time as an educator.

“I feel I am an old soul at heart and am set in tradition.”

# KNIGHTS STAND OUT

Guest Speakers

Mrs. Preity Bhagia speaks at the EHS library about the Hindu festival of Diwali. Students were treated to delicious samples of jalebi and mootichoor ladoos, while learning about Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth.

Berckley Sisters Represent EHS

For the past several years you’ve likely seen a Berckley sister on the EHS stage or directing actors from the wings. This summer Tallulah ’26, the youngest daughter of Dean of Arts and Innovation Dr. Jay Berckley, joined her older sister Lydia ’23. The duo created and hosted a week-long musical theatre camp for area middle schoolers at EHS.

Lydia ’23 was invited to sing the national anthem for the Space Cowboys (AAA baseball in Sugar Land).

The trio was featured in the TUTS Ain’t Misbehaven Playbill, along with being showcased in the featured subscriber’s video that is shown before every performance at the Hobby Center.

The oldest of the three, Madeleine ’21 was the Production Stage Manager for the Hobby Center’s Sarofim Hall.

Dr. Steven Gross is the Program Head for the Abbott MFA in Musical Theatre Collaboration- Music Direction/Music Skills/Practicum at Temple University. He spoke during a series of master classes for EHS students.

Dr. Papakonstantinou’s Math Club and Mu Alpha Theta welcomed guest speaker and alum, Kellan Caldwell. Kellan is a credentialed financial associate and wealth advisor for a nonprofit who focuses on giving back to the community by subsidizing fundraisers.

Speech and Debate

Will Palmer ’24 won 2nd place in the Lincoln-Douglas Debate at the Stanford High School Tournament in October.

Quiz Bowl

The EHS Academic Team won the championships at the Texas Tailgate Quiz Bowl Tournament. EHS outscored John Cooper for the win!

National Spanish Exam

In April 2022, EHS Spanish students took the National Spanish Exam which measures performance (interpretive communication) and achievement. The National Spanish exam is given to over 4,000 students nationwide. EHS placed in all levels, and a record number of students were celebrated in Chapel as they received National Spanish Awards in front of family and friends.

Founders Day

Students of Service

EHS Knights leave a huge impact on the community and the environment. Student volunteers participated in repairs and maintenance at the Memorial Park Conservancy.

Life Trustee The Rev. Laurens A. Hall presented a beautiful sermon about the founding of EHS and never giving up.

# KNIGHTS STAND OUT

Athletic Director’s Report: Knights Excel at SPC’s

The fall athletic season came to an exciting finish as the SPC gathered in Houston for championship weekend in November. Four EHS teams earned trophies and several programs enjoyed historic accomplishments.

The Girls Cross Country team earned their second consecutive SPC title with an incredible championship race performance at Spring Creek Park. The Knights placed five runners in the top 20, easily defeating runner-up St. John’s by 30 points! Madison Morgan ’25 and Lucy Holden ’23 finished in first and second place while Georgia Bass ’26 (7th), Asher Luengas ’25 (15th), and Shepherd Gregg ’24 (17th) earned allSPC recognition.

The Boys Cross Country team ran a race for the ages as they finished just five points behind SPC champion St. Andrews. Sam Marino ’24 finished second overall while Evan Ringwald ’24 (4th), Will Pacey ’26 (11th), and Henry Smith ’24 (17th) earned all-SPC recognition.

The second SPC title of the season came from the Girls Volleyball teams who dominated the SPC 4A field in winning their 11th SPC championship. The Knights defeated Kinkaid 3-0 in their opening match and followed that with a 3-0 win over Greenhill in the semifinal. The championship match featured the #1 seed Knights and #2 seed Hockaday, the defending SPC champions. The Knights again displayed their athleticism and skill with a commanding 3-0 win over the Daisies.

The Boys Volleyball team enjoyed one of the most exciting weekends of volleyball in recent memory as they earned wins over Greenhill (3-0) and Casady (3-2) to reach the SPC Championship game for the first time in decades. The Knights played a terrific match but fell 3-2 to Trinity Valley to finish as SPC runners-up.

Our EHS Varsity Football team made the short drive to Sheldon ISD’s Panther Stadium for a rematch with Kinkaid. The Knights defeated the Falcons 21-15 in their regular season matchup. The Falcons flipped the script in the championship game rematch as they earned a 17-6 victory over the Knights.

The Field Hockey team also made historic strides this weekend as they finished 4th in a hotly contested 4A championship field. The Knights opened the tournament with a thrilling 1-0 over Hockaday before dropping the semifinal game to eventual runner-up Kinkaid. The Knights faced St. Stephens in the third-place game and came up just short in the 3-2 decision.

Congratulations to all of our Knights on their accomplishments throughout the fall athletic season! #KnightsStandOut

—Jason Grove

Photos counter clockwise:

Girls Cross Country

Girls Volleyball

Boys Volleyball

Girls Field Hockey

Boys Cross Country

Varsity Football

Photo credits: Mya Broughton ’23, Jessica Ferdinand, Ambrose Alcoser, @KnightsFieldHockey, @episcopalhsvb, @episcopalboysvb

FINANCIAL LITERACY IN THE CLASSROOM

75% of American teens lack confidence in their knowledge of personal finance. According to a study by the FINRA Investor Education Foundation, four out of five youths failed a financial literacy quiz. NFCC’s 2019 Consumer Financial Literacy Survey found that fewer than one in five adults is confident in savings. It is no surprise then that several states in the US have decided to require financial literacy courses in high school. Texas has yet to make this commitment, but EHS—per usual—chose to be ahead of the curve and introduced a finance class as an Interim Term course several years ago.

Due to popular demand by students and parents, Finite Math is now a credited full-year course at EHS. The man at the helm? Jonathan Kwok, a graduate of Texas A&M with a BS in Finance. Mr. Kwok has taught geometry for more than a decade, entering his sixth year at EHS this fall. Growing up, Mr. Kwok loved learning about mathematics, participated in his church youth group, and aspired to be a basketball coach. He is living out that dream as first assistant basketball coach for the EHS Varsity Boys basketball team, alongside Wayne Jones.

In a serendipitous full circle, Mr. Kwok is bringing his collegiate knowledge of finance to his students. “I’m trying to figure out what they are interested in and what they respond to. The math is easy, the concepts are the challenging part,” he explains. “I want them to show up to buy a car or buy a house and understand how this works. I want them to be familiar with these transactions.”

When asked what he says most often to his students, Mr. Kwok replied, “I ask them if they are getting a good deal. That is the life lesson. You need to figure that out for yourself using the tools I am providing. The number one takeaway is being educated about your money and what it can do for you.”

The most challenging part of teaching a new course is the learning curve. Working on pacing, sequencing, and getting a feel for what teenagers want and need to know. So what do students think of this new course? Senior Emily Young says, “I believe that financial literacy is super important and it is not taught enough. There is very little financial education available, and I thought it was necessary to take this opportunity,” adding, “Mr. Kwok is also hysterical and makes it a very fun class!”

This sentiment is shared throughout the classroom. Senior Breylan Thompson says, “Mr. Kwok’s classroom is a very inviting environment. I look forward to coming to class every day because he makes learning fun. Looking at the description of the class, you may think it would lack fun and enthusiasm, but Mr. Kwok provides that every class period.”

— Jessica Brown

With the knowledge that Mr. Kwok is instilling in us I will have the ability to make wise financial decisions and put myself in the best position financially in the future.

– BREYLAN THOMPSON ’23

He is the funniest teacher at EHS, and this class always brightens my mood. Mr. Kwok is doing a great job of taking an elective class and making it informational and enjoyable.

– EMILY YOUNG ’23

BEHIND THE SCENES

SOPHIA ESPINOZA ’23 | PAIGE NAUGHTON ’23

One of the largest and most unsung support groups on campus is the technical theatre crew. For any given show, 20 to 40 students work to build, light, and run the theatrical productions at EHS.

The current senior class includes two absolute standouts in this area: Sophia Espinoza and Paige Naughton. Each began their EHS Onstage career on stage, cast in their freshman year fall play “The Man Who Came to Dinner.” Ironically, they were both cast as radio technicians in the play, so they essentially began by doing on stage what they would be doing backstage for the next four years. Each of them showed an immediate interest and aptitude in stage management and began their behind-the-scenes journeys as soon as they finished their last performance of the run.

What is truly unique about these two extraordinary thespians is how involved they consistently are with the theatre program while also being dedicated students and student leaders in many other areas. Both have been essential to the livestream broadcast of daily Chapel since our return from distancing, running cameras and the sound board to ensure that the service is heard and seen both at EHS and in the larger community.

Beyond the theatre, Paige is the Mu Alpha Theta president, Admissions Council president, Science Club vice president, and a Freshman Advisory mentor. She is also involved in the Chapel AV Team, International Thespian Society, and Student Achievement Program. She has volunteered to run dance concerts at EHS multiple times and even began designing lights for dance pieces her junior year. Paige will act as the production designer for the Student-Directed One-Acts this spring as part of an Independent Study in Production Design and Management.

Sophia is the historian of the International Thespian Society, Tennis manager, and Family Chapel Leader. She is also a member of the National Honor Society and National Chinese Honor Society. She worked with Mrs. Bowman during the fall production of Julius Caesar to prep and manage the blood effects for the show.

Questions & Answers

SOPHIA ESPINOZA ’ 23

How have you evolved as a student at EHS? Do behind the scenes activities have anything to do with this?

I have become more myself. Theater and behind the scenes (BTS) have helped with this because they taught me that taking charge and having a “get it done” personality isn’t a bad thing that I need to hide. It also helped because being around theatre people has made me aware that I can acknowledge my problems and be myself. The people who mind when I am myself will fall away, and the people who truly love me will be there standing beside me.

Are there teachers at EHS who inspired or encouraged you to challenge yourself?

Mr. Revaz because he constantly taught me to take charge and get things done. Mr. Hutcheson because he helped inspire me to learn more about things that fascinate me. Ms. Hernandez because she taught me how to have a voice while being respectful and considerate of others.

What is your preferred way to handle a stressful BTS moment? Do you have a story of a time when you overcame a stressful situation?

I calm down and try to take deep breaths. I act as calm as I can in those moments in order to make sure I don’t become short-tempered with others. During Eurydice there was a moment when we were doing a show and one of the set pieces wasn’t working. This was really stressful because I had to find a way to fix it, measure how much time we had, calm the actor down, and manage the people around me while calling Mr. Revaz for support.

What advice would you give to another student at EHS who wants to get involved with BTS activities?

Just go for it. It is so much fun and you won’t regret it. Get to know the other people who do tech as well as Mr. Hutcheson and Mr. Revaz because they will be amazing and your life rafts when you don’t know what to do. Interact with the actors as much as you can because you find better ways to manage and learn where you need to grow from them. It also gives you new and different perspectives that help with your understanding of management, leadership, and theatre.

PAIGE NAUGHTON ’ 23

What are your favorite EHS activities?

After four years of trying just about everything EHS has to offer, I feel that I’ve really narrowed in on my interests and risen to leadership positions in organizations I’m truly passionate about. EHS theatre has been a huge part of my life since the summer before freshman year, and I feel I’ve truly found a home within the program. Similarly, Dr. P. and the Math Club have been a huge part of my life since day one and there’s a real sense of community and collaboration there. Admissions Council is a more recent addition, but I love getting to share this amazing campus and community with wide-eyed eighth graders and endearingly nervous parents.

You are very active on campus. What motivated you to get so involved? Why do you think it’s important?

I tend to work better in general when I’m on the busier side, so over my four years at EHS, I signed up for a lot and just stuck with what I fell in love with. It wasn’t my intention at the time, but I’ve found that my involvement and work ethic has had a really great impact on my little sisters and has encouraged them to get involved and pursue their goals. I think getting involved is the quickest way to make true, long-lasting friends with similar interests and goals. Additionally, involvement, especially leadership, works wonders in helping you learn, mature, and grow into the best version of yourself.

Are there teachers at EHS who inspired your or encouraged you to challenge yourself?

For theatre, hands down, Mr. Revaz. He’s been a huge mentor in becoming a better leader and even a better person over the years. He’s believed in me since the very first even when I didn’t believe in myself; looked out for me when I was struggling; and pushed me to get better every show no matter how confident I was. If nothing else, he truly hammered home the idea that there’s always more to learn.

In terms of math/academics, Dr. P. has been absolutely amazing to me. I started freshman year taking her Honors Algebra II course and to be completely honest, I was scared out of my mind; I sat in the back and did everything I could think of not to be noticed by anyone. But when I tried dropping the class, Dr. P. really became my biggest advocate, convincing both me and my parents that I could stick it out and succeed. I’m now taking her Linear Algebra & Differential Equations class and am the president of Mu Alpha Theta so I couldn’t be more grateful for her influence.

What advice would you give to another student at EHS who wants to get involved with BTS activities?

Just jump straight into the deep end. The only way to learn how to do tech is by doing tech, so if you want to do it, just join a show and roll with the punches. Every setback is a chance to try something new and every mistake is an opportunity to learn and get better. If you stick with it, you’ll see improvement.

– Jessica Brown and Paul Revaz

LEADING WITH CONFIDENCE

Chandler Hollis ’23

With six academic courses each semester of his senior year on top of basketball, track, and Student Council, Chandler Hollis is determined to capture as much as humanly possible from his EHS experience. And he contributes just as much to the School! Looking to a career in medicine, Chandler has challenged himself, particularly in the sciences, including Bio 2 AP, Physics, Anatomy and Physiology, Marine Biology, and Forensics in the last two years with Psychology AP to boot.

Over the past few years, Chandler has learned to deal with disappointment and to make lemonade from lemons. Sidelined from athletics with a hip injury as a sophomore and junior, he threw himself into student leadership as sophomore class president. When he was elected StuCo veep rather than president as a junior, he chose to serve to the best of his ability and to join the citywide student council as a nova delegate. From his interactions with student leaders throughout Houston, where he still consults, he brings back ideas to EHS StuCo on building spirit and enhancing activities.

This year as student body president, Chandler continues to serve with energy and humility. “It’s a team of us in there,“ he says, and he sees himself as a servant leader in support of his classmates and the underclassmen.

Wayne Jones

Chandler is also a leader in DIA, serving on the steering committee and speaking at the recent Mix and Mingle. DIA is important to him as a place for students to share differing cultures and ideas. He recalls a schoolwide DIA meeting last year on the topic of implicit bias in which students became more aware of their not-always-accurate first impressions. He also serves on the Religion Pillar’s Student/Faculty Spiritual Life Board and is a youth leader at church. “Learning balance has probably been my biggest challenge,” he says. “I’m involved in lots of things and trying to be my best in all of them has been difficult to learn, but I am making progress.”

With preseason basketball underway, he is hoping to be part of another strong showing for the Knights after last year’s SPC championship. Chandler is looking forward as well to track in the spring where he hopes to participate in the 400 and the 4x400 as he tried as a freshman but was waylaid by the Covid closing.

Chandler’s teachers are big fans. Says Robin Owens, his calculus teacher: “Chandler has created Chandler’s Corner on the classroom whiteboard where he lists fun facts and leaves notes for students to read, including ‘Sharks have been on earth longer than trees.’” His Biology 1 Honors and Forensics teacher Karen Foster remembers that Chandler remained engaged and diligent during the three months in the spring of his freshman year when we were online for Covid. “He made the best of it,” she remembers.

And his advisor John Flanagan remembers sitting in the theater during the Black History Month presentation during Chandler’s freshman year and listening to Chandler “play a major role as an underclassman. He had not said a word about it, and there he was leading with confidence.”

Director of Diversity, Community, and Inclusion Wayne Jones describes Chandler as a student who always tries to be his best self. He is diligent, dependable, and unselfish, placing others above himself while juggling many responsibilities. Scholar, athlete, leader, advocate, and friend, this young man represents the best of Episcopal High School!

— Nancy Laufe Eisenberg

“He is diligent, dependable, and unselfish, placing others above himself while juggling many responsibilities...”

– Director of Diversity, Community, and Inclusion,

COMMANDING THE ROOM

Lila Henningsen ’23

If you have been on campus this semester for an event, you have probably seen Lila Henningsen buzzing around with her Canon 6D taking photographs of school activities and traditions we hold dear at EHS. Careful to catch her subjects in their element, she softly steps through the crowds to capture candid moments of her classmates. If you are enthralled in your conversation, listening intently to whatever speaker is holding a microphone or watching the dancers perform their hearts out, you might miss her. Lila is like a photography ninja in the way she is able to capture images without disturbing the scene.

Lila will be graduating at the end of the school year. With her final year at EHS under way, she has acquired quite the list of accomplishments. She is the Varsity Cheer Captain, co-founder of the Swag Club (the one-stop-shop for EHS club merchandise) and editor of Photo-J. Topping off success in all Four Pillars, Lila is active in the faith-based organization Young Life, where she serves as an officer and runs their Instagram page.

Lila has an old soul. I noticed this when she was still a freshman in Beginning

Her photography journey began as a subject for her older brother when he was a student at EHS more than ten years ago. Growing up in a creative family with three older siblings gave Lila a foundation to begin her appreciation for photography. It was rather serendipitous that she walked into her first class, first-period of her freshman year to find herself with a camera in hand. She fell in love.

It was not until her sophomore year that she could take a second photography class. Assignments, by design, were a little all over the place. “We have an assignment each week which changes a lot and so we get a wide variety of images to see what we enjoy shooting. I especially like football games, as well as dance, because I am involved in those things,” she says. She worked briefly in editorial photography but discovered her passion in other areas of photography. Luckily, Mr. Storlie allows all of his students to try out different types of photography to see where they are happiest.

By her junior year, Lila was co-editor and, as a senior, the editor of Photo-J. Lila manages a staff of ten Photo-J photographers. With the help of her assistant editor, Jules Weinstein ’24, Lila sets the weekly assignment shooting schedule, prepares and uploads photographs to an online server system for publications and communication use, covers weekly shooting assignments herself, and consistently produces dynamite personal passion projects.

She looks through her lens to see her subjects, but how does she see herself? “What I tell people when I describe myself is what my dad tells me. If you’re looking at an orchestra, you’re looking at the people playing the instruments. I have always tried to be the conductor of the orchestra, where I can stand back and look at it and not be in the spotlight. I like to lead by example and that has helped me in my EHS experience.”

— Jessica Brown

Photography. The class was a mix of all grade levels, and Lila was one of the youngest students. One day, the students were being extra rowdy and struggling to pay attention. Out of nowhere, this tiny, blonde-headed girl, Lila Henningsen, shouted, “would you guys just be quiet so that Mr. Storlie can teach us how to do this?!” I knew right then that she would eventually be an editor of Photo-J. Four years later and she is still commanding the room.

— Mr. Storlie

“I like knowing I set something up well and being able to watch it happen.”

MOMENTS

EHS Knights Varsity Football team led in prayer by the Rev. Art Callaham before the homecoming victory. Photo by Charles Holt

SAYING HELLO TO GOODBYE

Dean Colello

After 35 years of guiding families on how to “say hello to goodbye,” John Colello embarks on his own graduation from Episcopal High School.

Ever since his days as Dean of Students, you’ll typically find John on the move. In his own words, “I was always on campus, I was never in my office, and I was very visible.” Whether it’s welcoming fans to Candace U. Simmons Track and Field Complex on Friday nights, emceeing at Field Knight, or applying glue to the back of every senior’s Leaving Tree leaf, John has achieved omnipresence. Like Prince or Madonna, he affectionately goes by only one name: Dean. “The amusing thing is that non-EHS students would know of me and call me Dean,” he says.

On the rare occasion you find John in his office, take note of the decor. Episcopal memorabilia and swag-assorted coffee mugs, yard signs, and buttons cover every square inch of his bookshelves and walls. His fondness for all things EHS is abundantly clear, down to the pair of Episcopal Blue magnetic readers he wears around his neck (he owns five of them, if you’re wondering).

For John, it’s always been about relationships. “Students could come and talk to me about anything. Back then I memorized

all the names of the students,” he says. Although he’s had hundreds of conversations through the years, he never tires of being there for EHS community members. “You’re the most important person in the world at the time,” he says. Over the past years, John no longer needed to rely on his rolodex when he traveled the country visiting former alumni (sometimes driving at 4:00 a.m. to make it in time for breakfast). His love and pride for them was palpable as he recounted details about their postEHS lives.

John has not only fostered strong relationships with students, but also with their families. “Early on the parents realized I was an advocate for their student. They also realized I made sure that, to the best of my ability, I would do the right thing for the student and family,” he says. In his role as Dean of Parent Programs and School Legacy, he has continued to minister to families and help them feel welcome at EHS.

During his tenure at Episcopal, John has left his mark, and his legacy will live on in the traditions he helped create: Leaving Tree, Field Knight, The Gong Squad, and the After-Graduation Party (to name a few). He is quick to give credit to parents and others who have helped him along the way. “We did it together,” he says.

– Jess Adams

“Be yourself because everyone else is taken”

– Oscar Wilde

We’ll miss you, Dean. Be safe!

with EHS Teachers

Pop Quiz turns the table on teachers and asks them to respond to a list of quick questions. Their enthusiastic responses reveal the values, quirks, and interests that make them so effective in teaching EHS students.

ROYA MCARTHUR

French Teacher, French Honor Society, French Club Advisor

Roya McArthur is the EHS resident French expert! She has taught at EHS since 2019 and currently helps students to master the language of love by teaching French I, II H, III, III H, IVAP, V, and VI. She also enthusiastically sponsors the French Honor Society and French Club. So how did Ms. McArthur become well-versed in the French language? Born and raised in Tehran, Iran, she grew up attending a French International School. Following her passion, she moved to Texas and attended the University of Texas where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering and a minor in French. At the University of Houston, she received her Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Second Language Acquisition. When Ms. McArthur is not dazzling her students with French, she enjoys reading, cooking, hiking, and watching foreign movies. In summer 2023, Ms. McArthur will be chaperoning her students on a seven-day tour of France! Bon Voyage!

If you were not a teacher, what would you choose for a career?

A chef

If you could travel back in time, what period of history would you choose?

The roaring 20’s for its jazz and flappers.

What do you most respect about your colleagues?

Their dedication and care to a very noble profession.

What do you most respect about your students?

Their honesty, their care about their grades, and their willingness to work hard to improve them.

Read any good books recently? The Days of Abandonment By

Elena Ferrante, Pancakes in Paris by Craig Carlson.

What music do you enjoy listening to

A wide variety, anything that makes me want to get up and dance.

What is your favorite way to relax?

Doing my transcendental meditation on a daily basis, getting together with good friends and family.

Who is your hero (fiction or non-fiction) and why?

Gabriel Allon, a master art restorer and officer of Israeli intelligence from Daniel Silva’s books.

Tell us your life story in a sentence. I am still learning, and hopefully growing wiser.

If you could sponsor any club (whether an EHS student asks you to or not), what would you want to bring to the EHS campus?

A Zentangle club. (Fun Fact: A Zentangle is a miniature abstract work of art created by a collection of patterns.)

Which historical figure (past or present) would you hope to have a meal with, and what would you like to ask them during conversation? Mother Teresa, who gave her entire life to helping people for a good cause.

TABISH VIRANI ‘12

English Teacher, Student Government and Senate Co-Advisor, Students of Service Advisor

Tabish Virani, an English teacher at EHS, also happens to be an EHS 2012 alum. He is a native Houstonian who also attended Rice University, where he majored in English and Religious Studies, followed by a Master’s in Digital Humanities from the University of London – UCL. While English I and II are his main focus, he is also a faculty co-sponsor for Student Council. In his spare time, Mr. Virani enjoys reading fantasy novels and playing video games (especially League of Legends) with friends online and going to new restaurants around town.

If you were not a teacher, what would you choose for a career?

If I were not a teacher, I think I would take a shot at being a stand-up comedian.

If you could travel back in time, what period of history would you choose?

If I had to choose, I think I’d like to travel back to the ’60s. I would have loved to experience the excitement to the start of space exploration firsthand.

What do you most respect about your colleagues?

The thing I respect the most about my colleagues is how thoughtful and caring they are. They are always there to offer their support and advice whenever I need it.

What do you most respect about your students?

I respect how hardworking my students are. Despite how busy they are with their other classes and extracurricular activities, they still give it their all in English.

Read any good books recently?

I’ve been reading the Wheel of Time and it has quickly climbed to the top of my all-time favorite series list!

What music do you enjoy listening to?

My guilty pleasure is rapping along to Eminem during my commute to and from work.

What is your favorite way to relax?

My favorite way to relax is lounging with a hot cup of coffee and a good book.

Who is your hero (fiction or non-fiction) and why?

My older brother. He is someone who puts his 100% into everything he does and is always working to better himself so that he can be at the top of his field. He also treats everyone around him with respect and pushes others to be the best version of themselves. If he hadn’t believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, I would not be where I am today.

Tell us your life story in a sentence.

My life is a series of missteps that have led me to the right place.

If you could sponsor any club (whether an EHS student asks you to or not), what would you want to bring to the EHS campus?

I would love to sponsor an eSports club. It’s something I’m incredibly passionate about, and the eSports scene has been growing at an incredibly fast rate the past few years so having a space to talk and learn about it would be great.

Which historical figure (past or present) would you hope to have a meal with, and what would you like to ask them during conversation?

Hakeem Olajuwon. He’s a Houston legend and I would love to spend time with him and hear stories of his time on the Rockets, especially from the championship years.

DAN MURPHY Mathematics Teacher, 10th Assistant Grade Level Dean

Dan Murphy is a member of the Math Department and sophomore assistant grade level dean. He has been a teacher at EHS since 2019, where he currently teaches AP Statistics. He is an SOS (Students of Service) co-director and an academic coach with the AAP. Mr. Murphy grew up right here in Houston and attended Bellaire High School. He enjoys reading, following NBA basketball, jogging, and learning foreign languages and data visualization.

If you were not a teacher, what would you pick for a career? Data analyst / data journalist.

If you could travel back in time, what period of history would you choose?

Late 19th-century Vienna (Fin de Siècle).

What do you most respect about your colleagues? They put the kids first, and they have good intentions.

What do you most respect about your students? Generally students come in with a can-do attitude and good humor.

Read any good books recently?

The Perfect Run by Mackenzie Havey.

What music do you enjoy listening to?

Radiohead is my favorite band of all time. I’ve currently been listening to a lot of modern classical music by Einaudi.

What is your favorite way to relax?

A good cup of coffee and nothing that needs to be done.

Who is your hero (fiction or non-fiction) and why?

B.R. Ambedkar because he came from a disadvantaged background in India yet ended up playing an instrumental role in drafting that country’s postindependence constitution that aimed to protect every citizen’s liberty and dignity. He wasn’t afraid to speak out about things that needed to change.

Tell us your life story in a sentence.

I grew up in Houston, have lived in Washington, D.C., New York City, Dubai, and Cairo, really enjoy teaching, and am a proud father of a 14-month-old boy.

If you could sponsor any club (whether an EHS student asks you to or not), what would you want to bring to the EHS campus?

Super Smash Brothers Melee Club (on the old-school Nintendo Cube) because it is my favorite video game of all time.

Which historical figure (past or present) would you hope to have a meal with, and what would you like to ask them during conversation? I would like to have a meal with George Carlin and just talk about the meaning of life from his perspective, just as a regular person, not as a stand-up comedian.

TALKING TO ONE ANOTHER

With the theme of “Building Community Through Conversation and Communication,” the Office of Diversity, Community, and Inclusion, led by Wayne Jones and assisted by Jess Adams, is working to get us talking to one another. Well-loved former senior dean and varsity lacrosse coach Jess Adams has returned to EHS this year to teach English and to serve as Associate Director of DCI. With her open mind and upbeat attitude, Jess is always willing to listen and to share. And it’s in the one-on-one and small group conversations that we get to know one another, hear and respect varied perspectives, work through the differences, and build trust, in service of our mission to respect the dignity of each individual. The real work of building community is done through conversations.

With that in mind, DCI led community-building activities at Freshman Orientation, Freshman Retreat, the Mix and Mingle, and quarterly Community and Conversation opportunities for faculty and staff. The student organization Diversity in Action, open to all students and led by a 13-member steering committee of students from all grade levels, will continue to host a number of all-welcome meetings for students to get to know one another through small-group conversation.

During January Interim Term, DCI will for the second year run the Freshman Grade Level Learning class in Civil Discourse, developed by English and Debate teacher Evan Harris and assisted by Librarian Kate Hall, to help students understand themselves and one another and engage in respectful conversation both in person and online.

Please see the course outline on the next page.

– Nancy Laufe Eisenberg

Freshman Grade Level Learning: Civil Discourse

“Individual Identity”

This unit helps students understand how their experiences and beliefs impact their thinking, a critical first step before engaging with others in conversation.

• Learn about the components of identity and how that can shape perspective.

• Transfer their understanding into a storytelling exercise that asks them to think about how the perspective of the narrator influences their perception of events.

• Grapple with how incomplete information can lead us to make poor judgments about others.

• Take a fun personality test that primes students to think about how they work in groups.

• Run through a team building scenario, noticing how they participate in group work.

• Reflect on the strengths that their teammates brought to that group work.

“Empathy and Vulnerability”

The next unit helps students understand how to recognize themselves in others, how to embrace their shared humanity, and how to find common ground.

• Practice active listening skills.

• Draw connections between their experiences and those of the students around them.

• Run through a number of scenarios, where an empathic response is required of them.

• Differentiate between offering advice and offering support.

“Having Hard Conversations”

The fundamental questions addressed in this unit are: What really drives conflict? How do we build logical arguments? What happens when we temporarily adopt opposing viewpoints? How can we communicate with someone who disagrees with us? How does our desire to be right affect the way we perceive new information?

• Understand the basics of what makes for effective communication.

• Learn about ideas like non-verbal communication, tone, tips for building rapport.

• Understand the concept of confirmation bias and how it affects our perceptions.

• Learn about logical fallacies and construct a sound argument that is designed to persuade.

• Practice taking an opposing viewpoint.

• Learn about common types of conflict that come up when people have opposing views.

“Digital Citizenship”

The final unit of the freshman GLL, Digital Citizenship aims to educate students on a variety of issues that are highly relevant to their lives online.

• Learn about healthy technology use and the various concerns around device addiction.

• Explore the idea of a digital footprint and grapple with the permanency of their footprint.

• Learn strategies for limiting their online visibility.

• Have a group discussion about digital privacy and security issues.

• Learn about how potential employers and colleges assess candidates’ online footprint.

• Learn skills to differentiate between a reliable news source and an unreliable one.

Ms. Hall and Mr. Harris Freshman Grade Level Learning Creators

ALTON BOZEMAN ’93

Clinical Psychologist, Award Winner, and Parent

After graduating from Episcopal High School, Alton Bozeman, PsyD, Class of 1993, earned his undergraduate degree from Texas Christian University and his doctorate from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. He completed a predoctoral internship in pediatric neuropsychology at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital and a postdoctoral fellowship at Canyon Lakes Residential Treatment Center in Lubbock, Texas.

Bozeman currently serves as Director of Outpatient Assessments at The Menninger Clinic in Houston. As a clinical psychologist, his day-to-day responsibilities include providing psychotherapy and psychological and cognitive assessments. Within the assessment area, his focus is on developmental and neurological disorders such as autism, traumatic brain injury, and ADHD. Administratively, he manages a specialized assessment program that conducts intensive multidisciplinary week-long assessments. Dr. Bozeman provides clinical oversight, coordination of logistics, and quality assurance.

Along with the relationships formed with patient/clients, Dr. Bozeman considers himself lucky to work with a great group of people, from the administrative assistants to the psychologists and psychiatrists. “The people on my team are great. They are committed to helping others and passionate about their work.”

When he looks back on his time at EHS, he tends to reminisce about his English classes and sports. Dr. Bozeman said, “I really enjoyed the writing assignments and learning how to formulate persuasive arguments. Though not scientific in nature, the foundations of writing persuasively are like those in the scientific method. Those classes were fun with great discussion which stimulated my desire to continue learning.” He credits Coaches Russ, Phillips, and Irwin for providing a mindset of responsibility and discipline that impacted his education, career, and parenting. He said, “They were pivotal in teaching me to take responsibility for outcomes, good or bad.”

In 2015, Dr. Bozeman was awarded the AAID Knowledge Award for Excellence in Education or Research. He said that his greatest accomplishment professionally is earning his doctorate in psychology and personally it is his children. “I feel that their mom and I have managed to raise two boys with amazing hearts.”

When Dr. Bozeman isn’t working, he enjoys watching sporting events particularly of his sons’, Alton III(14) and Aiden(12). They enjoy spending time in the outdoors, camping and biking, playing board games, and family movie nights.

When asked about the challenges and rewards in his work, he said that the biggest challenge he has is having an intimate and up-close look at others’ struggles, some of which can be pretty sad and difficult. “The biggest reward is seeing people improve or benefit from the work my team or I have provided. Ironically, both the biggest challenge and biggest reward come from the same thing: the therapeutic relationship formed with the patient/client.”

—Ashley Long

“They (Coaches Russ, Phillips, and Irwin) were pivotal in teaching me to take responsibility for outcomes, good or bad.”

ALUMNI NEWS

Homecoming

Alumni gathered for a pre-game tailgate to celebrate the September 23 Homecoming and watch the Knights take on Legacy the School of Sport Sciences. Alumni enjoyed visiting with classmates followed by a football victory.

EHS Alumni Mixer

On October 6, alumni from Episcopal High School, Kinkaid School, and St. John School is gathered for a happy hour mixer at Kirby Ice House. Young alums from the three schools enjoyed networking and reminiscing about their high school days.

The Rev. Katie Gould

WELCOMING OUR NEWEST MEMBER OF THE CHAPLAINCY

Katie Gould is a native Texan from Lockhart, Texas. She is a University of Texas, Tyler graduate who recently graduated from Seminary of the Southwest in Austin. Prior to Seminary, Katie was a stay-at-home mom of two children: Izzy (9) and Reagan (5) who now attend St. Mark’s Episcopal School. She was also an entrepreneur, owning an industrial construction company and a children’s boutique in Kemah.

Of her experience as a boutique owner, she says, “It became a medium for meeting people. I had a journal I kept of everyone I met and prayed for.” It was an experience that led her to further practice her faith and ministry with the Episcopal Church.

Her reasoning for working in education is simple, “I didn’t go to Seminary thinking I was going to work in a school, but some of my undergrad is in education funny enough, so it has come full circle.” You could say much of her decision had to do with EHS. “I love parish ministry of course, but it’s nothing compared to interacting and building relationships with 800 students every day. Faculty and staff on top of that. The energy was buzzing when I was visiting the campus here. Everyone was so welcoming, from different backgrounds, and I find it interesting to be around so many different people.”

The Rev. Katie Gould will be ordained here at EHS in February 2023.

— Jessica Brown

“When I came to interview here, I knew I didn’t want to be anywhere else.”

FROM DAY JOB TO DREAM JOB

by George Brock

This story starts in the spring of 2003. Actors Theatre of Houston, where I had been employed as an actor, acting teacher, and artistic director since 1997, was a few short months away from closing its doors forever. I had a few contract gigs lined up as an actor/director, but I was beginning to think that I might have to return to working a “day job” after having managed to make my living as an artist for almost ten years in and around Houston.

That’s when the phone call came.

A dear friend and sometime theatrical collaborator was retiring. She had heard through the grapevine that I was about to be out of work – would I be interested in taking a job as a theatre teacher at Episcopal High School? I think it’s important to share here that the last thing I wanted to do with my life was to be a teacher. In the world of the jobbing theatre artist, becoming a high school theatre teacher was tantamount to surrender. That being said, I figured that this high school job would hold me over until I could find another artistic director job.

That was 19 years ago. So, what changed my mind about being a high school theatre teacher? Three things: The philosophy of EHS, the culture and commitment of the faculty and administration, and the students.

In my interview there was a lot of talk about the Four Pillars and the commitment to making sure all students could explore their varied interests, participating in activities of their choosing. I was skeptical, however, when we had a student who wanted to be a nationally ranked wrestler and play principal roles in our shows, activities that were often in direct conflict. But I was part of the effort the School undertook to make that want a reality. That experience, and the countless others like it, made a tremendous impression on me.

Being part of the Four Pillars in action is truly a rewarding experience, but what captured my imagination, and ultimately changed my thinking about what it means to be a high school theatre teacher, were the people I worked with. Every day brings a new opportunity to work with someone who inspires

me or shares something that lights up my creative drive. From the leadership team that green-lit a regional tour of a production about Vietnam War nurses through the Deep South as students experienced first-hand the lessons of the Civil Rights Movement, to the ongoing collaboration between the Chaplaincy and Masque, to the day-to-day development of new ideas and new programs with fellow artists in the Performing Arts Department, the synergy and electric collaboration that drives me as a theatrical artist is very much present in the work I get to do with this amazing group of faculty and administrators.

And then there are the students. They won my heart. I had taught in acting studios over the years leading up to joining the EHS faculty, but that experience didn’t really prepare me for how much these young people would impact me. It is being a part of their growth process day in and day out that has profoundly changed me. Witnessing their growth, helping to guide them on their journey to fulfilling all that potential, and in many cases developing friendships that have lasted well beyond their time at EHS is far more rewarding than any standing ovation or glowing review.

So--as this story continues--I look forward to continuing to work and grow with this outstanding faculty/staff and these wondrously ever-growing students, who continue to help me understand and celebrate the importance of what we do. I celebrate and take immense pride in the fact that, not only am I a high school theatre teacher, it’s also the most important and most rewarding work I’ve ever done and ever will do.

But I was part of the effort the School undertook to make that want a reality. That experience, and the countless others like it, made a tremendous impression on me.

2022 ‑ 2023 BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Chairman

The Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle

Executive Chair

A. Haag Sherman

Shelley T. Barineau, Katie M. Barnes ’92, Edward Crain, Jr., Jane J. Dabney, The Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle Chairman, Morrow B. Evans ’94, Emerson Hankamer, Sr., Curtis Hartman, Andrew B. Hawthorn ’91, Thad Hill, Richard A. Howell ’01, Simmi Jaggi, Jenna B. Junell, George O. McDaniel, III, Joel Moore, Eloise F. Novotny ’94, Charles H. Prioleau, William Randall, Courtney (Lanier) Sarofim ’88, Ned Smith, Rev. R. Leigh Spruill, James E. Taussig, III, Duncan Underwood ’89, Reymond (Kent) Wallace, John Weinzierl, James W. Whitehead ’94

Life Trustees

John F. Austin III, Edward C. Becker, The Rt. Rev. Maurice M. Benitez †, W. Craig Childers, Lacy Crain, The Rev. Laurens A. Hall, Victor A. Kormeier Jr., Frederick R. McCord†, Laurence B. Neuhaus, The Rt. Rev. Claude E. Payne, Joel I. Shannon, Lynda Knapp Underwood, The Rt. Rev. Don A. Wimberly

Executive Committee

W. Craig Childers, The Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle, William F. Galtney Jr., Melinda Budinger Hildebrand, Richard A. Howell ’01, Joel Moore, William Randall, A. Haag Sherman, Ned Smith, Duncan Underwood ’89 – Secretary, Lynda Knapp Underwood, James Whitehead ’94, Randa Duncan Williams † deceased

LEADERSHIP

Head of School

Ned Smith

Associate Head of School for Finance & Operations

Evelyn Cambria

Associate Head of School for Academics & Student Life

Kim Randolph

Principal Antonio Avalos

Dean of Arts and Innovation

Jay Berckley

Director of Athletics

Jason Grove

Dean of Spiritual Life

The Rev. Beth Holden

Director of Diversity, Community, and Inclusion

Wayne Jones

Director of Communications

Jessica Morales

Chief Development Officer

Allie Nikolaisen

Dean of Faculty

Nguyet Xuan Pham

PILLARS MAGAZINE TEAM

Director of Communications

Jessica Morales

Communications Associate

Jessica Brown

Senior Graphic Designer

Diana Mumford

Contributors

Jess Adams

Ambrose Alcoser Photography

Chris Bailey Photography

Mya Broughton ’23

Nancy Eisenberg

Jessica Ferdinand

Charles Holt

Peter Hutcheson

Paul Revaz

*We’d like to apologize for a previous inaccuracy reported in our Class of 2022 College Acceptances and Scholarships list. EHS would like to congratulate Nolan Albert Kelley for his Presidential Scholarship and acceptance as a Templeton Computer Science Scholar at Union College (NY).