With we will...
THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL | FALL 2022
PAGE 40
THE MAGAZINE
SCHOOL | FALL 2022
OF EPISCOPAL HIGH
Contents
ON THE COVER
40 COURAGE: THE CAMPAIGN FOR EPISCOPAL
This fall, Episcopal launched the public phase of our most ambitious campaign yet. Learn more about the School’s big goals on page 40.
Pictured on the cover: Senior monitors and dorm heads gather on the porches of one of Episcopal’s newest dormitories.
FEATURES
48 REACHING THE SUMMIT
EHS Trustee Emeritus John Townsend ’73 formally endowed the Double Diamond Expedition (formerly Diamond Acre), a threeweek excursion throughout the west for a group of emerging student leaders. Since founding the trip in 2008, Townsend has provided a transformative experience for numerous students; his generosity now ensures it will continue in perpetuity.
52 OUT OF THE BLUE: HOW EPISCOPAL BECAME THE MAROON AND BLACK
A deep dive into how the “Maroon and Black” became a part of institutional vernacular.
96 THE IMPORTANCE OF “LIGHTHOUSE PEOPLE”
In the opening of school Chapel Talk, Head of School Charley Stillwell spoke about the importance of “lighthouse people” in a community like Episcopal.
DEPARTMENTS
2 FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
4 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
56 CLASS NOTES
After Episcopal: William Lewis ’69, Erek Barron ’92, Elizabeth Hoster Murphy ’97, Philip Glaize ’04 and David Glaize ’07, Josh Szymczak ’16
91 IN MEMORIAM
Head of School: Charley Stillwell
Assistant Head for Advancement: Christina Holt
Director of Communications: Irfan Latimer
Associate Director of Communications: Ann deSaussure Biondi ’08
Class Notes Editor: Marissa Murdock
Photographers: Natalie Davies, Rebecca Drobis, Piper Hartman, Sam Levitan, Cory Royster, Allison Shelley
Archivist: Laura Vetter
Design: Linda Loughran
Published by Episcopal High School for alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends of Episcopal High School. ©2022 Episcopal High School
Please send address corrections to: Advancement Office, Episcopal High School, 1200 North Quaker Lane, Alexandria, VA 22302. Or by email to communications@episcopalhighschool.org.
Episcopal High School does not discriminate in its admissions, or in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, or in access to or treatment in any other School-administered program on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, ancestry, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, or any other protected category in accordance with applicable Federal, State, and local laws.
1 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
From the Head of School
The fall is such an exciting time on the Episcopal campus. There is the energy that comes with the fresh start to a new year, the remarkable beauty that emerges as the leaves on the Front Drive take on an array of spectacular colors, and the spirit that arises as the tradition of The Game with Woodberry approaches. Our senior class arrives each fall eager to lead our endeavors, and this year’s group of seniors has brought a special pride and enthusiasm to this role. As we return to campus life beyond the pandemic and reconnect with all that makes our community special, our seniors are committed to making sure our community on campus is stronger than ever.
I also love this time of year to drive outside of Alexandria either to the mountains in the west or to
These seeds start, first and foremost, with those core values that have guided Episcopal students for generations — personal honor and integrity, leading and serving with humility and kindness, treating all with dignity as children of God, the pursuit of excellence, and the pride that comes from genuine achievement. Using the incredible resources of Washington as a living classroom then brings these crucial values to life and encourages curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge and truth across all academic disciplines. Having an exceptional group of adults who know and appreciate each student and who encourage them as they wrestle with complex and challenging issues from multiple perspectives adds another critical piece, and the support of friends and classmates serves as the final ingredient in this germination process.
the Chesapeake Bay and to see Virginia’s farmland ripe for the harvest. These scenes make me think of the seeds that must be planted and the environment needed to help each crop be its very best in preparation for the fall harvest. I remain especially proud that the seeds we continue to plant at Episcopal and the learning environment our outstanding faculty and staff caringly cultivate help us continue to produce impressive graduates with the strength of character and the intellectual and moral courage to make a positive and meaningful difference with their lives and leadership.
As you look through this fall magazine, I hope you will see several aspects of this seeding and cultivation process at work. Faculty, young and old, play a key role on campus. The McCain-Ravenel Center is helping us transform the impact of Washington on our program in powerful ways. Impressive student groups like our Young Republicans and Young Democrats Clubs encourage our students to wrestle openly with important issues, and the dedication of our alumni and the outstanding leadership of our Board of Trustees continue to help make all our efforts possible.
It is also so rewarding to see what types of alumni leaders continue to emerge from our campus. The highlighted stories here in our After Episcopal profiles reinforce that our core values can prepare our young people for so many different pathways and passions that lead to such positive impacts on the lives of those around them. As a recent Episcopal parent myself, I am thrilled that my own daughter is part of this proud journey.
Sincerely,
Charles M. Stillwell Head of School
2
... our seniors are committed to making sure our community on campus is stronger than ever.
EHS
Another Wonderful Year Begins
n MOVE-IN DAY
Episcopal Up Close
4
5 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Introducing the 2022-23 EHS Fellows Pilot Program
This year, Episcopal debuted the 2022-23 EHS Fellows Pilot Program, welcoming five young, energetic, and highly motivated educators into the cohort.
Hadiyyah Abdul-Jalaal ’17, Clark Doyle, Erin Phillips ’18, Tyler Salmon, and Nettie Webb ’18 all bring different areas of expertise to these newly formed roles. The brainchild of Dean of Faculty Lucy Whittle Goldstein ’97, the EHS Fellows Pilot Program recognizes Episcopal’s focus on identifying and training people who can jump into the many demands a 24/7 school requires.
As one of the few 100% boarding schools in the country, Episcopal is the perfect foray into the world of education for young teachers just starting out in their careers. Goldstein, who started a similar program at St. George’s School in Newport, R.I., pointed out the appeal of EHS to a younger person right out of college. “I always felt like Episcopal was the hottest ticket,” she said of the School’s proximity to D.C., the close-knit community, and the magic that comes from living together, day in and day out, in such a unique place.
The original job description called for candidates who were “highly motivated to learn the art and science of teaching and school life” and “willing to go the extra mile.” It was important that all candidates be energetic, enthusiastic, and hardworking — skills that go a long way in a fastpaced environment like Episcopal’s. “These fellows bring all of those skills and more in a big way,” said Goldstein.
•••••••••
“The value of the program lies in the support from the faculty mentors and my peers in the cohort. I look forward to having a group of experienced teachers to help guide me and a group of other young faculty members who are learning the nuances of working at a boarding school to collaborate with.”
— CLARK DOYLE
•••••••••
“Joining the program brings on a ton of exciting adventures, from my first dorm duty, teaching for the first time, and interacting with the students during their activities. This year, I’m most excited about getting to know my students and advisees as whole people by interacting with them both in and out of the classroom.”
— NETTIE WEBB ’18
•••••••••
“I’ve always been invested in the holistic image of my students, but my prior teaching role within a day school made this difficult. I’m thrilled to be on a campus that believes in fostering human growth beyond the classroom and I am excited to further engage with this aspect for the rest of the school year!”
— TYLER SALMON
•••••••••
“I am excited to support the next class of EHS students as they reach their goals here on campus and beyond
•••••••••
“I’m most excited to learn the art of working in a boarding school. As a member of the class of 2018, I’m so thrilled to be back at EHS learning from and working with many of my high school teachers. I look forward to following their lead in making a lifelong impact on students’ lives — like my EHS teachers did for me.”
ERIN PHILLIPS ’18
—
The Holy Hill. There is a lot that goes into being a student at Episcopal. My hope is that I can cheer on and inspire students to always push themselves and follow their passions.”
HADIYYAH ABDUL-JALAAL ’17
—
6 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE n FACULTY AND STAFF
The Media Landscape, Intellectual and Moral Courage, and the 2022 Election Cycle
In early November, and just ahead of the midterm elections, the McCain-Ravenel Center for Intellectual and Moral Courage invited an array of outside speakers to campus over the course of two days to touch on relevant topics and ignite conversation. Director of the Center Ryan Pemberton said, “The students were able to interact in a real and meaningful way with practitioners from media, politics, and the tech world, who connected the classroom to the world beyond the gates. This experience was designed to help our students become more thoughtful consumers of media and, we hope, more engaged citizens.”
Building on the Civil Dialogue Project launched last year, the programs sought to provide students with a framework to productively address issues surrounding the current media landscape, intellectual and moral courage, and the midterm election through a series of presentations, discussions, and debates between individuals with differing ideological perspectives.
On Sunday evening, the community heard from Izzy Ortega, the national spokesperson for The LIBRE Initiative — a leading Latino advocacy organization, and Ron Steslow, founder and host of the Politicology podcast. As seasoned political and media consultants, Ortega and Steslow centered their conversation on our current political and media landscape. The discussion focussed on a historical look at the connection between our media and our civic discourse while providing students with practical information about positive media consumption in preparation for the next day’s activities.
The following day, students in grades ten through twelve watched a debate between Anna Taylor, counsel in the office of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and Tuck Shumack, principal at Ogilvy Government Relations. Moderated by John Gable ’83, co-founder of AllSides.com, the debate centered on policy-related statements presented by Xandy Veague ’23, vice-president of Episcopal’s Young Democrats, and Nathan Dewitte ’23, president of Episcopal’s Young Republicans, with discussion topics ranging from college loan forgiveness to climate change and from income inequality to inflation.
Reflecting on her experience, Veague said, “The relevancy of today’s MRC programming is what made it so interesting. I was able to connect everything that each panelist and Mr. Gable said to our current political climate. This election is the first time I have voted, and today’s discussions made me realize how important where I get my information is.”
After the debate, sophomores, juniors, and seniors moved into small group conversations facilitated by EHS faculty members, during which they voted on discussion topics from the debate, leveraged AllSides.com to research the topics, and analyzed the issues offering pros and cons. During their discussions, students evaluated their observations based on the Portrait of a Graduate qualities and the AllSides.com rubric.
Instrumental in planning the MRC Monday program, Mimi Schwanda, assistant director of the McCain-Ravenel Center said, “Through hearing from real-life leaders from just across the river in D.C., our students had the chance to think about navigating the current media landscape and about finding connections with those with whom they disagree — crucial skills for all to have in today’s world.”
Launched in the 2021-22 academic year, the Civil Dialogue Project is an initiative designed by Episcopal’s McCain-Ravenel Center for Intellectual and Moral Courage to model civil discussion by engaging knowledgeable external speakers with differing perspectives in thoughtful conversations.
n MCCAIN-RAVENEL CIVIL DIALOGUE PROJECT
7 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Sarah Akridge Knutson ’96 Steps into a New Role
As a first-time EHS parent and the School’s recently instated Chair of the Board, Knutson is keenly prepared to advance Episcopal’s mission and ensure institutional strength for generations to come.
I feel grateful to serve the School alongside so many accomplished and dedicated trustees.”
n BOARD OF TRUSTEES
8 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
In July, Sarah Akridge Knutson ’96 P’26 began her role as Chair of the Board, succeeding Lee Ainslie ’82 P’14 ’17. Arriving on The Holy Hill just one year after coeducation, Knutson instantly felt at home with help from her older brother John Akridge ’93, then a senior. Her younger brother William Akridge ’99 would follow in their footsteps and join the EHS community during Knutson’s senior year. As she entered Episcopal in the early years of coeducation, she was amazed at the warm welcome she received and the close bonds she quickly formed with her fellow classmates, many of whom she is still friends with today.
Married to her EHS sweetheart Brian Knutson ’96, Knutson is a mother to three boys, one of whom is just starting on his Episcopal journey. “It was important to me to understand the experience of an EHS parent and have that perspective as I shift into the role of Board Chair,” she said. She hopes that being a part of the current parent community will give her extra perspective as she navigates the unique challenges and opportunities that the position holds. And she has an added benefit of living right down the road, making it easy to visit campus to watch her son play JV football or to cheer on the Maroon during Spirit Weekend.
Knutson, who works in commercial real estate, brings not only her adamant love of The High School to this role but also a keen eye for institutional growth. During her first tenure on the Board, from 2010 to 2016, she was the head of the Buildings and Grounds Committee. It was an exciting time on campus as Townsend Hall was built and Stewart Gym was re-envisioned, she recalled. Eight years later, she is thrilled to again be a part of another hugely transformational campus construction project — the two new dormitories and the deButts Health & Wellness Center.
When Knutson arrived for her first term in 2010, her freshman son Jack was just two years old. “It was such an honor,” she said of being asked to join the Board at a young age. She spoke of how she was just starting out in her career and remembers fondly how she had a seat at the table instantly. “Our Board is made up of incredibly talented and accomplished leaders,” she said, “who all value what each individual brings to the table. Everyone listens to each other and appreciates one another’s ideas and perspectives.”
In addition to her work on the Board, Knutson has been an active volunteer for The High School over the years. In 2009-10,
she and Brian co-chaired the Advisory Council, and she chaired the celebration of the 20th anniversary of coeducation in the fall of 2011. In 2015, Knutson sat on the Head of School Search Committee which brought Charley Stillwell to The Holy Hill.
“He’s the right person for the job at the right time and it is impressive to see what has been accomplished over the last seven years,” she said of his leadership. Stillwell feels the same of Knutson, echoing that “it has been impressive to watch our very smooth transition in leadership on the Board from Lee Ainslie and his outstanding tenure as Board Chair to the spirit and vision that Sarah Knutson is now bringing to the role. She is wise beyond her years and benefits from her wonderful appreciation for the core values and traditions that have guided Episcopal over all these years while pursuing innovative approaches that will help Episcopal thrive for years to come.”
Knutson also was a member of the 2018 Campaign Study Advisory Committee that led to Courage: The Campaign for Episcopal . “The five pillars of the Courage Campaign relate directly to strategic initiatives developed in 2018 to support and strengthen the delivery of our mission,” she said of the ambitious campaign. “It is an exciting time and this campaign is an important investment in this effort.” Knutson has served as the Vice Chair of the Board in 2015-16 and 2021-22 — an experience that has thoroughly prepared her for this next exciting role. “I feel grateful to serve the School alongside so many accomplished and dedicated trustees.”
As she looks to the future, Knutson remains most excited about continuing to advance Episcopal’s mission and supporting Stillwell in bringing strategic initiatives to fruition. As the construction dust settles, Knutson is ready to tackle what’s next for the institution’s future. “Bricks and mortar will always be near and dear to my heart, and I am thrilled these new buildings are nearing delivery. Their impact on campus can already be felt. I, too, am excited about the focus on endowment growth and the impact it will have on our programs and offerings. The McCainRavenel Center, residential life curriculum, wellness programming, financial aid, faculty and staff growth and support; these items are key elements of the campaign and are institutional priorities — all of which shape the experience of each student at Episcopal. I am excited for what is to come.”
9 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Brian and Sarah Knutson (front row, left) pose for the Discipline Committee Whispers photo during their senior year.
“Thank God for Julian Robertson and all he has done for Episcopal High School.”
— SANDY AINSLIE ’56, HEADMASTER 1981-98
Episcopal remembers Julian Hart Robertson ’51 for a lifetime of devotion to the School.
This summer, the Episcopal community lost a giant of an alumnus: Julian Hart Robertson ’51. “One of the fathers of the modern hedge fund industry,” according to The New York Times, Robertson had an incredible career as a Wall Street investor and gave his time, money, and energy generously to the institutions that shaped him.
In a video made ten years ago for Robertson’s eightieth birthday, he told the viewers the three things that had the biggest influence on his life: his parents, the U.S. Navy, and Episcopal High School.
In his senior yearbook, Robertson’s peers described him as “one of the most popular boys in school for many reasons.” They spoke of his “cheerful nature” and “ability to take a joke on himself” — qualities those privileged enough to know him well enjoyed immensely, most notably his longtime friend, Dick Rutledge ’51. Rutledge shared copious notes from introducing Robertson at various Episcopal events, where the two would laugh about memories from their time together at The High School.
Rutledge loved giving his old friend a hard time — recalling the days when Robertson was coming up in the world of finance and had recently been knighted in New Zealand for his contributions to the country that would become his second home. According to Rutledge, Robertson’s former classmates and friends were “uncertain if we would have to address him as Julian or ‘Sir Julian.’ We practiced: ‘Good morning, Sir Julian,’ and ‘Hey, tiger, sir,’ and ‘I love you, Sir Julian!’”
After Episcopal, Robertson went on to found one of the financial industry’s most prominent hedge funds, Tiger Management, in 1980 with $8 million, which would ultimately grow to a height of $23 billion. Throughout his career, he remained in close contact with fellow Episcopal alumni, hiring and mentoring “Tiger cubs,” financiers who would go on to create their own hedge funds, like
Julian was an outstanding leader and inspirational example for all in the Episcopal school community. He spoke regularly of the impact that Episcopal and our foundational core values of honor and personal integrity had on his life. His commitment to supporting the students, faculty, and staff of Episcopal over many years has been a critical source of strength for our institution and a powerful call for the pursuit of excellence in all we do.”
— HEAD OF SCHOOL CHARLEY STILLWELL
former EHS Board Chair Lee Ainslie ’82. EHS Trustee Emeritus John Townsend ’73, a close friend in business and life, said of Robertson’s legacy: “Julian embodied all that EHS aspires to in developing young men and women. He was intellectually curious and intellectually honest. He was a lifelong learner and always saw the best in people, especially young people. He was a man of deep faith and honor, and he profoundly influences and inspires me to this day.”
A native North Carolinian and a true gentleman, Robertson was known for always lending a hand to others. Winfield Sickles ’95 wrote to Robertson as a junior at the University of Georgia, referencing their shared interests of their respective small towns in North Carolina, Camp Sea Gull, and Episcopal. While his inquiry about a summer internship at Tiger Management was not possible as none were offered at the time, Sickles still found himself at Robertson’s apartment on the Upper East Side of New York City a few months later, getting career advice as he embarked on his own journey in finance.
“He was always looking for the next investment,” said Sickles of Robertson, who would ultimately become his mentor, boss,
n TRIBUTE
10 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
In my years as Headmaster, Julian did more to ensure the financial foundation of Episcopal High School than any other person through his insightful Board leadership, extraordinary investment acumen, and incredible generosity. Behind that big grin — and all those easy-going North Carolina welcoming gestures — there was an astute mind and a genuine concern for the future of the institution.”
client, and friend. “He believed so strongly in young people and had a knack for finding often overlooked talent in them.” Sickles knew how special it was that Robertson invested so much time and energy in helping a fellow North Carolina kid along in his career. “He always made you feel bigger. Just being in his space elevated you,” Sickles remembered fondly.
In addition to maintaining his individual ties to Episcopal through his relationships with Sickles, Townsend, Ainslie, and numerous others, Robertson’s steadfast devotion and generosity to the institution itself were remarkable. He served on the Board
“TREMENDOUS
Julian was truly an inspiration to me during my tenure at EHS. He was so devoted to that which is most important to the School: the values and the people. I was always eager to spend time with Julian. A consummate gentleman, he exuded warmth, humor, playfulness, and penetrating curiosity. EHS is remarkably fortunate to claim Julian Robertson as a Distinguished Alumnus — a man whose very life mirrored the most fundamental values and aspirations of the School.”
of Trustees from 1980 to 1986 and helped the School pursue ambitious goals again and again by sparking transformational growth in every aspect of the School’s program. It is no exaggeration to state that Robertson touched the lives of thousands of students, enhancing their education and Episcopal experience in countless ways.
Ever a champion of teachers as well, Robertson established the Faculty Incentive Award Program in 2001 to recognize and celebrate excellence among Episcopal’s faculty in perpetuity. And while his support of Episcopal’s students and faculty was extraordinary, he was equally committed to the alumni and parent communities, generously hosting annual EHS receptions in his Manhattan home for decades. He received the EHS Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1994 and was awarded the School’s Distinguished Service Award by the Board of Trustees in 2015.
Episcopal will be forever grateful for the tremendous and lasting impact Robertson had on our School.
Over the years, Robertson directly impacted the following areas of The High School: Faculty Incentive Award Program | Robertson Hall Financial Aid | Ainslie Arts Center | Hatch Echols Rotunda
AND LASTING IMPACT”
— SANDY AINSLIE ’56, HEADMASTER 1981-98
11 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
— ROB HERSHEY, HEADMASTER 1998-2016
Julian Robertson ’51 (center) on The Holy Hill for The 119th Game with Dylan Glenn ’87 (left) and Dick Rutledge ’51 (right).
Resolution from Episcopal’s Board of Trustees
Following a deep exploration of the role enslaved people played in Episcopal’s pre-Civil War history and how some institutions with similar histories have responded to such knowledge, the School History Working Group shared its findings with the Board of Trustees last spring. In June, after much deliberation and thoughtful discussion, the Board unanimously approved a resolution to “...acknowledge the weight of what we have learned and to commit Episcopal to pursuing actions that are substantive and meaningful.”
THE BOARD RESOLUTION CALLED UPON THE SCHOOL TO:
❱❱ Pursue meaningful steps to honor our duties as a community, always aspiring to integrity, respect, and care for one another;
OUR NEXT STEPS:
❱❱ Honor and commemorate the enslaved men, women, and children, who helped build and sustain Episcopal High School in the 1839-1861 period in a meaningful, respectful, and lasting way; and
❱❱ Review academic courses, historical exhibits, and online histories of the School to ensure that they are thorough and appropriately comprehensive.
Head of School Charley Stillwell and the Administration are grateful for both the spirit and the direction of the resolution and have begun efforts to respond accordingly. Initial efforts, as of October 2022, include:
❱❱ Focused research to ensure we have adequate information about the enslaved persons who worked on Episcopal’s campus so that the ultimate commemoration reflects a sincere and comprehensive attempt to honor their lives and contributions to the School;
❱❱ Appointment of an advisory group to help review how other institutions have approached similar commemorations and to consider the best method for Episcopal to fulfill this goal; and
❱❱ Review of places where the School’s history is told, whether in courses or in exhibits on campus or online, so that we can determine the best ways to tell the School’s history in a full, open, and engaging manner.
As this work continues, the School will seek advice from a variety of individuals within the EHS community and beyond to help ensure we are pursuing these tasks in a caring, responsible, and thoughtful way. Updates will be provided to the school community and posted on the School’s website.
Visit episcopalhighschool.org/2022resolution to learn more about the research undertaken by the School History Working Group and the School’s continuing work moving forward.
n RESOLUTION
12 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL ACKNOWLEDGING THE SCHOOL’S PRE-CIVIL WAR HISTORY AND CONNECTION TO SLAVERY
WHEREAS Episcopal’s mission of preparing young people with intellectual and moral courage calls us to understand the entirety of our history such that students of today and tomorrow may understand and learn from our past;
WHEREAS this understanding must include a thorough grasp of our evolution from the antebellum period to today – from an institution with direct ties to slavery to a highly diverse and inclusive community committed to preparing students to lead and to serve in an increasingly complicated, diverse and connected world;
WHEREAS the School has pursued a more complete understanding of the institution’s history and has, in doing so, confirmed that over the course of the School’s first twenty-two years – between its founding in 1839 and the start of the Civil War in 1861 – the labor of enslaved men, women, and children was employed at Episcopal;
WHEREAS the Board acknowledges with deep sorrow and profound regret the use of the lives and labor of enslaved individuals to help build and sustain the School;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the School will pursue meaningful steps to honor our duties as a community, always aspiring to integrity, respect and care for one another;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that included in these steps, the School will honor and commemorate the enslaved men, women, and children, who helped build and sustain Episcopal High School in the 1839-1861 period in a meaningful, respectful, and lasting way; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Trustees hereby requests that the Head of School review academic courses, historical exhibits, and online histories of the School to ensure that they are thorough and appropriately comprehensive.
Approved Unanimously: June 15, 2022
Lee S. Ainslie III ’82 P’14 ’17 Chair of the Board
Sarah Akridge Knutson ’96 P’26 Vice Chair of the Board
13 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Dr. Meg Andrews ’01 Embraces Intellectual Flexibility
Looking back, Dr. Meg Andrews ’01 can confidently say she made the most of her EHS education. A latecomer to the classics program run by longtime Latin and Greek teacher Jeff Streed, Andrews embraced her newly found passion for ancient history with a fervor, catching up her junior year by creating her own independent studies with the support of EHS faculty members and quickly becoming one of Streed’s most outstanding students. She now is an assistant professor of classics at Harvard University, marrying her two loves of ancient history and archaeology.
“I’ve always been very curious, but my curiosity was able to flourish because of the faculty here,” Andrews said as she looked back to her high-school self. When she returned
and flexibility that led her to Streed’s classroom in the first place, which became especially evident as she prepared to be Episcopal’s 2022-23 Scholar in Residence. When she agreed to return for a week full of learning and communing with students, she didn’t necessarily know she would be tackling topics she knew little about — like epidemiology. “I saw that I would, of course, be visiting the Greek and Latin courses and discussing ‘Antigone’ with several English classes,” she said in her Chapel Talk at the end of the week, “...but then there’d also be American Literature, some Shakespeare, some writing, and, naturally, epidemiology. These classes are all over the place, I thought! What can a Roman archaeologist possibly say about all these things?”
Ultimately, Andrews was reminded of the vast breadth of the curriculum that Episcopal provides. Throughout her career, she has been diligently narrowing in on her field of Roman archeology, but she marveled at the way Episcopal students naturally move from class to class and topic to topic. “Preparing for this week wasn’t easy, but it was worth the effort,” Andrews admitted. “I had moments here that give teachers chills, not necessarily because of anything I did, but because one student asked a perfect question or realized how something I said also related to another class on another topic. These moments sustain teachers, and when you grind away deeper and deeper on an increasingly narrow topic like professors often do, it’s easy to forget how breadth is just as important as depth…. So, I want to thank the students for schooling me on what intellect can be.” Her final advice to the students was to “try to stay as intellectually adroit and flexible as you are now. It will be hard, especially if you get out of practice, but your lives will be better for it.”
n SCHOLAR IN RESIDENCE
EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
The Ben Geer Keys Scholar in Residence Program — established in 1998 by an anonymous donor — brings talented scholars and artists to The High School to work with and live among students for several days.
Enhancing STEM Curriculum at The High School
This fall, science teacher Dave Collins embraced a newly established role as Episcopal’s first STEM Coordinator. In this position, he plans to work with students and fellow faculty members to create engaging and innovative courses.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) teaches students to engage in a hands-on approach to traditional mathematics and science courses and to apply these concepts in a real-world context. In Collins’ new role, he not only plans to teach students STEM concepts but also to work with faculty in developing new course offerings. He predicts: “In this new position, I not only will be able to develop more courses but will also welcome other faculty members to come with their own ideas to teach different STEM offerings like computer science, engineering, modeling, and big data.”
Collins’ goal for Episcopal’s STEM students is to keep their learnings relevant in today’s rapidly changing world. In his classes, he focuses on project-based learning and hopes to teach his students to work, fail, re-work, and learn from their first iterations of projects. “Students today are pushed so far to get things right,” he reflects, “and my job is to hopefully teach them that they can fail and that’s okay because I’m going to give them a second chance. And they can see improvement and success down the road.”
Collins’ coursework is currently focused on several speed projects designed to get students thinking on their feet and completing projects in a short time frame. His Advanced Engineering course is creating a redesigned dining hall model to increase the pedestrian flow during seated meals. In another engineering project, students built cardboard boats and set sail in the EHS pool. Students created a small prototype to gain an understanding of the forces that act upon boats in water, find the most optimal shape, and work out any initial issues with the design. The class learned about buoyancy forces and Archimedes’ principle to figure out how much of the boat would be submerged and how stable it would be in the water. They also integrated basic naval architecture and engineering to give them the tools to improve upon their first small-scale prototype for their final full-size model to successfully float.
Students today are pushed so far to get things right, and my job is to hopefully teach them that they can fail and that's okay because I'm going to give them a second chance."
Collins reflected on how he has evolved as an educator over the years: “If I go back and look at hand-carved models versus 3D printed models in recent years, I can see the iterations and improvements over time.” As he works to develop more courses and projects, his number one goal is to “expose students to a variety of STEM principles and show them what’s out there.” His coursework, much like the iterations of models, will evolve, change, and grow as he works with faculty and students to build out Episcopal’s already impressive STEM programming.
n ACADEMICS
15 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Seniors Kristel Castellanos and McLeod Blount participate in the cardboard boat races in the EHS pool.
“How will you live a life of service?”
During Episcopal’s annual Veteran’s Day Chapel, social studies teacher Joe Eldred spoke about his 27 years in active duty in the U.S. Navy — and what ultimately brought him to teaching.
When I was on active duty in the U.S. Navy, my mom loved telling her friends that I was “in the service.” From the day I was commissioned as a Naval officer back in 1992, she never said “my son is in the Navy” or “my son is in the military” — it was always “my son is in the service.”
I loved my mom, but for the longest time I never really liked her use of that old-fashioned phrase to describe what I was doing in the Navy.
What was I doing in the Navy? When I was a brand-new junior officer fresh out of college at 22 years old, I was assigned for three years to a Navy warship named the USS Merrill. The Merrill was a type of ship called a destroyer — home to 350 sailors, about 520 feet long and weighed about 8,200 tons.
I eventually got my “sea legs,” which means my body got used to the ship’s rocking and rolling on the heavy waves — no more puking — and I qualified to stand watch on the ship’s bridge as “Officer of the Deck.” This meant the ship’s captain trusted me to be in charge of the USS Merrill in the middle of the night when he was sound asleep.
I still remember the first time I stood the “Officer of the Deck” watch by myself at 2 a.m., pitch black outside, pouring rain, heavy seas, wondering if I was really ready to do this all alone… except I wasn’t alone. I had many teammates who were also standing watch throughout USS Merrill — everyone working together to make sure we kept the ship and our shipmates safe out there in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, far from home.
That’s what I miss most about the Navy: the people I served with, from literally all walks of life, from all over the U.S., and from all over the world. If you have ever been part of a team at EHS — athletics, theater, robotics – then you know what a great feeling it is to be with a group of people united toward a common goal, a common mission, and a common purpose.
I loved that feeling in the Navy of serving with a group of dedicated people united in a common mission to do our small
part to keep our country safe. I loved that feeling so much that I ended up serving on active duty for 27 years. Looking back now, the years seemed to go by in the blink of an eye.
The reason I am standing before you today is because my mom also led a life of service; specifically, as a teacher for 30 years.
At her funeral in 2016, hundreds of my mom’s current and former students showed up and told me about the positive impact she made on their lives in her service as a teacher, mentor, and friend. Those words made such an impact on me that when it was time to retire from the Navy, I decided to first try to follow in my mom’s footsteps as a teacher. Thank you, EHS, for giving me the opportunity to do so.
I think my mom would very much appreciate the EHS mission statement, part of which states that the School prepares young people to “pursue lives of ethical leadership and service.” Service meant so much to her.
As we recognize those who chose to serve in the Armed Forces, please remember that there are so many different ways to live a life of service and make a difference in the lives of others. Teachers, nurses, doctors, first responders, law enforcement, civil servants, clergy, social workers, coaches, researchers, counselors — the list goes on and on, and we should salute them all.
Students who have taken one of my classes at EHS may recall that at the beginning of each semester we spend some time discussing one of the EHS core beliefs: “We are all part of something greater than ourselves with the capacity and responsibility to be a force for good in the lives of others.” Friends, that’s the very definition of service.
And so I will end with a Veterans Day challenge to the current EHS scholars: How will you be a force for good in the lives of others, both here on The Holy Hill and beyond? You have the capacity. You have the responsibility. How will you live a life of service?
16 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
n CHAPEL TALK
A Sampling of Flexperiences
This semester kicked off the second full calendar year of the new schedule, which was envisioned in the 2018 Strategic Plan.
Laying aside the conventions of the 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. school day, EHS faculty sought innovative ways to best use our time with students to further our mission, resulting in structured time during the day to explore the greater Washington, D.C., area. The schedule fully leverages our unique position — as one of only four 100% residential schools in the country and as the only one located just minutes from the nation’s capital. While opportunities for learning in Washington and building community at EHS already extend beyond traditional school hours, with the new schedule, we have been able to do even more. As of November, more than 200 curricular trips have taken place. Here’s a sampling:
LEGAL PRINCIPLES AND TRIAL ADVOCACY
Earlier this semester, social studies teacher and Episcopal’s general counsel Stefanie Smith took her Legal Principles and Trial Advocacy class to the Alexandria Circuit Court. The class watched a direct examination of a witness in a murder and racketeering trial. Smith recounted: “The timing couldn’t have been better as the students had just started their unit on witness examinations.” They enjoyed the experience so much that the class begged Smith to take them back and see more. The students returned to the trial a couple of weeks later and observed the qualification and examination of an expert witness. They will then draw on these observations in January when they prepare to conduct their own mock trial before the Honorable J.P. Howard of the D.C. Court of Appeals.
SPANISH
Norman Kim-Senior’s Spanish class visited The Molina Family Gallery, a 4,500-square-foot gallery that is the first in the Smithsonian system dedicated to the history and ongoing contributions of the Latino and Hispanic communities in the US. The exhibitions in the Latino Gallery presented bilingual stories to span cross-cultural audiences, allowing students to understand the importance of Latino history through multimedia, physical objects, and first-person experiences. This flexperience allowed students
to discover their own entry point into the stories of Latino and Hispanic communities. The inaugural exhibition of the Gallery, ¡Presente! A Latino History of the United States, provides an in-depth introduction to historical people, places, and concepts that illuminate the legacy of U.S. Latinas and Latinos.
VICTORIAN LITERATURE
English teacher Molly Pugh’s Victorian Literature class went to her house one sunny Thursday afternoon for a Royal Victoria Sponge Cake bake-off. Though the Charles Dickens and Emily Brontë books they were reading provided little instruction in the culinary arts, the class (fortunately) had some experienced bakers and eager learners among them. While the cakes were in the oven, the teams temporarily set aside their friendly rivalry to take tea and play a mystery game set in 19th-century London. Using the detailed map and several written clues and primary documents, they sought to best Sherlock Holmes and solve the crime first. When the oven timer dinged, the students presented their final products: delicate, golden, artistically adorned cakes with sugar and dollops of jelly. The final bake-off score? A resounding tie.
CASE STUDIES IN MODERN WORLD HISTORY
Freshmen in Capt. Joe Eldred’s Case Studies in Modern World History learned about the emergence of complex societies in ancient Mesopotamia. To bring their textbooks to life, the students explored Washington for a flexperience designed to have them look at the city in a new light. They considered the elements that make up a complex society such as record keeping, art, and governing structures by looking at societies from the Paleolithic Era, the Neolithic Revolution, and the society of Mesopotamia. Their assignment? Study D.C. as if they’ve never been there before. Is it considered a complex society based on architecture and history?
“It’s a win-win,” said Eldred of the assignment, “with both a solid pedagogical purpose and a chance for some of the students to see and explore the National Mall for the first time.”
n ACADEMICS
17 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Cultivating Culture, Commitment, and Community
Since its inception in 2020, the Black Alumni Network (BAN) has focused its energy on identifying opportunities for engagement among Episcopal’s Black alumni as it strives to cultivate culture, community, and commitment.
The BAN leadership team continued to meet virtually throughout Covid, furthering the evolution of the network, which was created to “... empower current students and alumni through mindful engagement, networking, advocacy, and mentorship in order to create a community of alumni that not only embodies the EHS principles of moral courage, courageous action, and intellectual courage but also engages the EHS community at large, fostering cultural awareness.”
While gathering in person over the course of the past several years was challenging, BAN was able to host two happy hours, one in New York and one in D.C. The group also hosted a virtual fellowship meeting in February 2022 during which Clarence Gaines ’76 shared a segment of Fresh Perspectives in Black History and provided historical background about the founding of Black History Month, and Sundi Lofty ’94 discussed her latest documentary, “Abraham Lincoln,” which aired on the History Channel.
As its first event of this year, BAN hosted a tailgate on Front Drive during Spirit Weekend, inviting all members of the Episcopal community to gather and enjoy incredible barbecue cooked up on site by Will Collier ’00. A fun-filled evening followed with a postgame gathering hosted by EHS Trustee Craig Dixon ’93 P’23 ’26 at The St. James Sports Complex.
As BAN’s leadership looks toward the future, it hopes to find authentic ways to energize more Black alumni to actively engage with the network and plans to host more in-person events.
Scan the QR code or email blackalumninetwork@episcopalhighschool.org to get connected with BAN.
n BLACK ALUMNI NETWORK
18
EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
Invigorating Service Engagement at EHS
Service has long been a part of Episcopal High School’s culture, but for the past two and a half years the School’s ability to provide the service-based activities offered pre-pandemic was severely limited. In reviewing the Service Learning Program last year, the School re-envisioned what it could be and how Episcopal could best inspire our students to embrace service to others as a core value, culminating with a new service requirement unveiled this summer. Beginning with the EHS Class of 2026, all students are required to complete five approved service activities each year over the course of their time on the Hill. For many, lending support to those in need is a powerful experience, but finding the time and opportunity can be a hurdle in a student’s busy high school schedule. A goal of Episcopal’s Service Learning Program and its Service Council will be to help facilitate access to these meaningful opportunities.
Seeing service to others as one of the values in Episcopal’s Portrait of a Graduate, Assistant Chaplain and Service Learning Coordinator Richmond Jones is optimistic the freshman class will experience opportunities for reflection through serving their community on Saturday mornings. “It’s not just a lost Saturday morning, it’s a time when they are building relationships with the people around them,” he said.
Episcopal’s Service Council, comprising active student volunteers, is dedicated to introducing all students to their surrounding community through service engagement opportunities. Jones
SERVICE COUNCIL WILL CONTINUE THEIR EFFORTS TO SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING:
• AFAC (Arlington Food Assistance Center)
• St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church Community Garden
• KEEN (Kids Enjoy Exercise Now)
• Ivy Hill Cemetery
• Alexandria Animal Welfare League
• Emerging Scholars
hopes students will feel empowered to identify an area of service they feel most passionate about. “I want them not only to increase their awareness and access, but also to learn to advocate for their passions,” Jones said.
One of Service Council’s main projects is selling concessions at home football games to raise money for Episcopal’s sister school in Haiti. As they gently emerge from Covid-19 precautions, Jones describes the Service Council’s student leadership as extremely energetic and committed to bettering the student body through volunteerism.
“Service is not just up to the Service Council,” Jones wants to remind everyone. “All of our students can pursue a cause that they care about. The best work often comes straight from the heart.”
OVER THE COURSE OF THE SCHOOL YEAR, THEY ALSO PLAN TO WORK WITH:
• Arcadia Farms
• ALIVE!
• Quantico National Cemetery
• Casa Chirilagua
• Martha’s Table
• Carpenter’s Shelter
• Be The Good
• The Society of St. Andrew Orchard Gleaning
• Lucky Dog Animal Rescue
n SERVICE
19 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Meg Gray ’24 and Leo Melton ’24 connect with Emerging Scholars in the EHS dining hall.
Scenes from Fall
WeekendFamily
n FALL FAMILY WEEKEND
20 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
21 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
EHS Theater Makes Magic on Stage
This fall, the EHS Theater Department put on “Puffs,” a comedic musical about a familiar school of wizardry, yet told from a very different and endearing perspective. Students collaborated to design the set and costumes and orchestrate lighting and sound, bringing “Puffs” to life in Episcopal’s Breeden Black Box Theater and creating a magical ambiance complete with floating candles.
Set designer and dresser Flora Kuipers ’23 worked closely with Director of Theater Mallory Nonnemaker and Theater Technical Designer Wes Reid as well as fellow students to bring the impressive set to life. She said of her fellow cast and crew: “We all worked really well together — especially when the performances started and everything was organized thanks to our hard work. We’ve never communicated better as a team.”
n THEATER
22 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
23 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
n VISUAL
ARTS
Summer Sterling ’24
Chloe Yan ’24
Elliot Kim ’24
24
Ava Foulk ’23
EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
Janie Becherer ’23
Shirley Zhuang ’24
Thomas Sigler ’26
Morgan Dixon ’23
Kyra Lamptey ’26
25 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Stella Ren ’23
Hannah Markham ’23
State Championships, Here We Come!
EHS Robotics had a stellar showing at the Potomac School VRC Tournament in November. With four EHS teams competing, two made it to the quarterfinals, one was a runner up, and the team led by Claude Morris ’23, Bryan Chen ’24, and Arhip Dmitriev ’25 won the entire tournament, qualifying Episcopal Robotics for the 2023 Virginia High School VRC State Championships, a first for EHS.
Congratulations to EHS Robotics: Bryan Chen ’24, Gabe Contreras ’25, Arhip Dmitriev ’25, Colin Glinton ’24, Ethan Kim ’24, Jaden Lee ’24, Leo Melton ’24, Claude Morris ’23, Shaan Vyas ’24, Joshua Wu ’23, Max Yang ’25, Vicky Zhou ’24, and advisor Dr. Kacey Meaker.
n ROBOTICS
26 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
Sitting Down with Our Student Leaders
Jachin Ejim ’23 was inspired to take on a leadership role because of the effect one student leader and friend had on him throughout his early years at Episcopal. He looked up to Clay Sailor ’21, who was the Head Monitor of his class, and Ejim wanted to have that same positive impact on underclassmen. Now, he’s the head of the Honor Committee, carrying on a storied Episcopal tradition of upholding honor within our community.
This school year, Ejim is joined by his peers Sydney Hopkins ’23 and Patricia Okwueze ’23, who serve as the Head Monitor and the head of the Discipline Committee respectively. The three all agree on one thing: These jobs certainly aren’t easy, but they’re worth it.
The three seniors have spent the fall leaning into their new roles and learning how to balance being teenagers, finishing college applications, managing their course loads, and leading Episcopal’s student body. “Regardless of how tired I am at the end of the day, I’m so proud to be a part of this,” says Okwueze.
This year, Ejim, Hopkins, and Okwueze have big goals. Hopkins is laser focused on building community as the Head Monitor. Her hopes for the school year ahead include continuing to promote dorm pride, creating strong family groups within the greater student body, making sure every student feels seen, heard, and cared for, and empowering students to feel like they have a voice to affect change on Episcopal’s campus and beyond.
Okwueze agrees. She wants to help train the juniors and underclassmen for leadership positions, so that they may ultimately step into these roles with ease. She feels particularly strongly about leaving her legacy on the Black Student Alliance, a group on campus that she “holds close to heart.”
The biggest learning curve has been time management. It isn’t easy being 17 and 18 years old and managing the responsibilities that come with senior year and a demanding leadership role, they say. But Hopkins, Ejim, and Okwueze are navigating the roles with grace and patience, like those who came before them and like those who will come after them. “I’m very open with my friends when I’m feeling stressed,” says Okwueze, who wants to serve as a realistic example to her underclassmen friends who are considering applying for these positions on campus.
These leaders also represent the first time three students of color were simultaneously elected by their peers to the top three leadership positions at The High School, the significance of which is not lost on them. “I hope it has encouraged more students to apply for leadership positions,” Hopkins muses. “I think our presence has been impactful in that way,”
“I just try to go out there every day and be someone that underclassmen can look to,” Ejim adds, striving to serve as the example that Sailor was for him.
n STUDENT
PROFILES
27 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
25 Years
of Burch
This year marked the 25th anniversary of the beloved Burch Outdoor Program, generously funded and founded by Lucius Burch III ’59.
While speaking with former Head of School Sandy Ainslie ’56 in the late ’90s, Lucius Burch III ’59 realized the need for a program that would bring the freshman class together before beginning their time on The Holy Hill. Thus, the Burch Outdoor Program was formed in 1998.
Burch’s donation to the School has given the Burch Outdoor Program the longevity to thrive and to create a sense of community amongst new ninth graders for over two decades. Looking back on the many years of successful trips, Burch said: “The partnership with Outward Bound has been fantastic, and the School has done a terrific job of fostering the program and developing it into something that has really become meaningful, and of which I am really proud.”
Science teacher Kathleen Caslow has been a chaperone on the Burch trip 23 times. “The students are able to learn about real consequences in a low-stakes environment," she has learned. "The moment the first trip ended, I knew it was something different and that we should keep going." As for her future with the trip? “I will go as long as it is possible for me to do so,” she said.
Burch leaves incoming ninth graders with this advice: “Have fun; enjoy; and get to know your fellow students and teachers. That’s what it’s all about.”
n OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP
28 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
Lucius Burch III ’59
14th Seminary Hill Cup
Founded in the fall of 2008, the Seminary Hill Cup (SHC) is an annual matchup between the fall girls’ athletic teams from Episcopal and cross-town rivals St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes. The 14th SHC competition was hosted by St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes and included a total of nine events in five different sports — volleyball, field hockey, soccer, tennis, and cross country — as varsity and junior varsity teams competed for The Cup.
Congratulations to all of this year’s Seminary Hill Cup participants! We’re proud to celebrate several Maroon SHC accomplishments. Varsity field hockey secured its first SHC win since 2010, JV field hockey captured its first-ever tie in SHC history, varsity volleyball improved to 11-3 all-time, and JV volleyball catapulted to 12-2 all-time. Way to go, Maroon!
n ATHLETICS
29 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Photo by Will Snead ’23
A Season for the Books
It was a great fall athletics season for The Maroon. Football won its first IAC Championship since 2016; girls’ soccer holds a new EHS record for highest number of wins in a season; and volleyball made it to the VISAA State Tournament Semifinals with a 21-7 record.
n ATHLETICS
30 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
31 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
2022 Hall of Fame Inductees
Over Spirit Weekend, Episcopal inducted six individuals and four teams into the Athletics Hall of Fame. The group includes four professional athletes and represents a span of 74 years of superior athletic abilities.
The Hall of Fame honors and perpetuates the memory of those individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Episcopal High School athletics and have helped bring recognition, honors, distinctions, and excellence to Episcopal and its interscholastic athletics program.
To read more about the inductees, visit episcopalhighschool.org/halloffame.
HENRY FERO SCHACHT ’48
Henry Schacht earned two varsity letters in basketball and three in baseball during his three years on the Hill. He played crucial roles in two championships — clinching victories against Woodberry in both sports.
“Henry was captain of the basketball team, but his best sport was baseball having pitched at North Carolina and in the minor leagues. He will always be remembered for his 1-0 victory over Woodberry,” said Schact’s former teammate Doug Mackall ’49.
JAMES “JIMMY” FLIPPEN ’91
Perhaps the most talented player to compete for the Maroon since the inception of the golf team more than forty years ago, Jimmy Flippin still holds several golf records here at EHS and at UVA. During his career on the Hill, Flippin was undefeated in match play, set the scoring record for low round, led Episcopal to an Interstate Athletic Conference (IAC) team title in 1990, and co-captained the team in 1991.
During his junior and senior years, he was recognized as the Alexandria Sportsman’s Club Athlete of the Year for golf, won the School’s William M. Boothe MVP Award for Golf, and was honored by the Washington Post as All-Met. In 1990,
he was also named the Virginia State Golf Association’s Junior Golfer of the Year.
ANSLEY STEWART CONDON ’07
Ansley Condon was a four-year starter, leading scorer, and captain of both field hockey and lacrosse at Episcopal. Condon led the field hockey team in scoring during her junior and senior seasons and was recognized as All-ISL following each of those campaigns. As a senior, she was selected as the Ruth K. Rainey Field Hockey MVP.
Her junior year, Condon led the lacrosse team to the 2006 Virginia State Championship. As a senior, the team achieved a top-five state ranking, with Condon leading the team in goals, assists, draw controls, and ground balls. Throughout her EHS lacrosse career, Condon was awarded All-ISL, All-State, Washington Examiner All-Virginia, and All-American honors. She was presented with the James H. Fannon Award for Athletic Worth at graduation.
GIVEN KALIPINDE ’09
Given Kalipinde made an immediate impact on the soccer field as a new junior. As a senior, he led the team to the 2008 IAC and State Championships and was named All-IAC, VISAA Co-State Player
n SPIRIT WEEKEND
32 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
of the Year, and Washington Post All-Met Player of the Year, among other honorifics.
Kalipinde was equally gifted on the basketball court and the track. For basketball, he was awarded First Team All-State and All-IAC. Following the season, he was named the Alexandria Sportsman’s Club Player of the Year and Washington Post All-Met. In track, he helped the team capture the 2009 IAC Championship while earning All-IAC honors.
ABEL “SHADOW” SEBELE ’09*
Holding the EHS career scoring record, Shadow Sebele scored 70 goals and 50 assists. As a captain during his senior year, Sebele scored an incredible 18 goals in the team’s first eight games, before sustaining an injury that ended his season early. Sebele continued to lead the team with an infectious energy from the sidelines.
During his career, Sebele earned All-IAC, Washington Post All-Met, Alexandria Sportsman’s Club Soccer Player of the Year and VISAA Co-State Player of the Year honors. Sebele earned 12 varsity letters, also competing in winter and spring track all four years. He was also a member of the 2009 IAC championship track and field team.
MARK E. GOWIN
In 24 years at the helm of The High School’s football team, Mark E. Gowin amassed well over 100 victories, including a winning record versus Woodberry. He coached the team to undefeated seasons in 1991, 1992, and 1998, and won a total of four IAC championships. During his career, Gowin was honored as the Washington Post All-Met Coach of the Year, the Touchdown Club of Washington Coach of the Year, and the Alexandria Sportsman’s Club Coach of the Year. Gowin also served as the head baseball coach for several years and led Episcopal to its only IAC baseball title in 1996, a championship that he shared with his son Brian ’98. Gowin always placed a premium on relationships and the way he treated student-athletes and his fellow coaches at Episcopal. According to former NFL player Tim Hightower ’04, “He made sure football was bigger than X’s and O’s through the life lessons taught and made everyone who played for him feel like part of a family.”
1993-94 GIRLS’ BASKETBALL TEAM
In just the third year of coeducation, the 1993-94 Team won the School’s first Independent School League (ISL) Basketball Championship. The Maroon were undefeated in league play, dominating the competition with an average margin of victory of 24 points. They completed the season with a 20-2 record.
Members of the team were: Kaaren Andrews (head coach), Frank Daniel Batten IV ’94 (manager), April Harris Crosby ’94 (manager) , Amanda Machado Frye ’94, Juliana Bush Gannon ’96, Katherine Ann Haney ’95, Cynthia Aileen Hill ’95, Gray MacNair King ’96, Stephen Randall Lugar ’94 (manager), Fleming Cunningham Lunsford (coach), Kendall Cooke Meyer ’94, Danielle Jeanetta O’Banion ’97, Courtney Gunter Rowson ’95, Portia Jenel Scott ’97, Spencer Magill Sloan ’94 (manager), Comer Shuford Wear ’95, Elizabeth Maris Welker ’95, and Patrice Scott Williams ’95.
33 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
2008, 2009, AND 2010 BOYS’ SOCCER TEAMS
State Championships, while extending the unbeaten run to 45 games, which ESPNRise declared was the longest current streak at a high school in the United States. Episcopal was ranked #3 in the final national poll of the National Soccer Coaches Association of America.
Following two undefeated seasons, the 2010 boys’ soccer team had to overcome mounting expectations and pressure. The players finished the regular season 17-0-1 overall and 10-0 in the IAC.
2008, 2009, AND 2010 BOYS’ SOCCER PLAYERS
Sadiq Abubakar ’11 (manager)
Arnaud William Adala Moto ’12
William Scott Addis ’09 (co-captain)
Kurt David Anderson ’13
Dominique Joel Badji ’11 (co-captain)
Calvert James Bobola ’10 (co-captain)
Trevor William Bobola ’11 (co-captain)
Shepard Stone Chalkley ’11
Justin M. Combs ’09
The 2008 EHS boys’ soccer team began the School’s three-year, 63-game undefeated streak by going 23-0 and winning Episcopal’s first Virginia State Championship.
In 2009, the team went on to defend both the IAC and Virginia
Anthony Jamal DeRiggs ’11
Henry Woods Dewing, Jr. ’12
Gregory Ignatius DiNardo ’09 (co-captain)
Thomas Hale Gosnell ’10
Mark Benjamin Herzog ’11*
Ross Ayers Higgins ’12
Jongmin Chris Jeon ’10
Bennett Nicolas Jones ’11 (co-captain)
Peter A. Jordan (coach)
David Kagulu-Kalema ’10 (co-captain)
Given Kalipinde ’09
Robert Gilliam Kittrell IV ’10
Clifford Lam ’11
Yong Jae Lee ’10
Charles Alexander Marshall ’11
Eric Nathaniel McDonald ’13
Jake Edward Meredith ’11
Spencer Harding Moore ’09
Vishal Mukesh Patel ’11
William Wells Patrick ’12
Bradley C. Park (coach)
Frank P. Phillips (coach)
John August Rauch ’12
Lucas Alexandre Roux ’10
Ricardo Antonio Ruano ’09
William Howland Ryan ’09
Abel Sebele ’09* (co-captain)
Sakhile Curtis Sithole ’09
Alexander Grady Smith ’10 (co-captain)
Charles Davidson Snow ’10
Solomon Thomas ’11
Ntokozo Tshuma ’12
Thomas Robert Wall ’11
Nicholas Wight Weeden ’11 (co-captain)
Frederick J. Wilcox IV (Head Coach)
James Hamilton Williams ’09
*Deceased
34 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
n SPIRIT WEEKEND
35 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
THE
n SPIRIT WEEKEND
36 EPISCOPAL UP CLOSE
View all photos from Spirit Weekend.
Members of the Class of 2022 returned to campus for The Game
Dedicating the Joe Halm Memorial Cross Country Circle and Ellie Halm ’16 Memorial Tree
Community members gathered to remember Charlie Stephenson ’19
Blessings
all weekend
EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL 37
Touring Episcopal’s two newest dormitories
abounded
Freshman Sims Wetherbee sporting the split E
The traditional alumni soccer game
Warming up for the alumni soccer game Students enjoying the tailgates on Front Drive
Here we go, High School! Football wins The 121st Game for its fourth victory in five years.
On the second Saturday in November, EHS football secured a 24-8 victory over Woodberry to finish an impressive 7-2 season. The Maroon controlled The Game from the start, as quarterback Alexander Brady ’24 completed a 29-yard touchdown pass to Buom Jock ’23 with 1:30 remaining in the first quarter. The 7-0 lead increased less than 5 minutes later with another connection between Brady and Jock to expand the lead to 14-0.
EPISCOPAL
38
n SPIRIT WEEKEND
UP CLOSE
The Maroon’s dominance could not be stopped as Cedric Benning ’24 thundered into the end zone with 8:00 left to play in the fourth quarter. The Tigers eventually scored a touchdown and converted for 2 points to cut the lead down to 21-8. EHS responded with a field goal to seal the win. Episcopal’s offense cruised through
the season with Benning rushing over 1,000 yards, and Jock finishing with 51 catches for 814 yards.
The win –– which was the largest margin of victory since The 117th Game in 2017 –– concluded a memorable Spirit Weekend at The High School. Hundreds of alumni, friends, and parents attended various
events on campus. Weekend highlights included welcoming six individuals and four teams into the Hall of Fame Class of 2022, tailgating on the Front Drive, remembering Charlie Stephenson ’19, and observing the dedication of the Joe Halm Memorial Cross Country Circle and Ellie Halm ’16 Memorial Tree.
39 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
40
FEATURE 41 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
WITH COURAGE, WE WILL…
Over the weekend of The 121st Game, The High School launched COURAGE: THE CAMPAIGN FOR EPISCOPAL , the School’s most ambitious campaign to date. More than 400 parents, past parents, Trustees, alumni, and EHS faculty and staff members gathered to celebrate this historic moment at the Spirit of The High School Dinner in iconic Centennial Hall.
Head of School Charley Stillwell P’18 began by expressing gratitude for the generosity of the Episcopal community and announcing that COURAGE CAMPAIGN donors had already committed nearly $110 million towards the bold goal of $150 million. He then introduced Henry Barrett ’18 who spoke of the power of the EHS experience, his close-knit relationships with teachers, and the importance of financial aid, which made it possible for him to attend Episcopal as “some kid from Midland, Texas, who had heard that boarding school was too cold, too far away, and too expensive to ever consider.” Chair of the Board Sarah Akridge Knutson ’96 P’26 closed the remarks by sharing with the crowd the advice she gave her son as he began his freshman year this fall: Stay engaged; be courageous; appreciate tradition; connect with faculty; and, most importantly, make it count.
Thank you to all who supported this launch — from near and far.
“I am confident — now more than ever — that our School has outlined the top priorities to continue to propel Episcopal to excellence while holding tight to our foundational values. I invite you to join me in support of this ambitious campaign and all the strategic priorities that it will fuel. To ensure that our timeless values are instilled for generations to come and that our beloved School continues to excel.”
— SARAH AKRIDGE KNUTSON ’96 P’26
“Thanks to the generosity of benefactors known and unknown, named and unnamed, here with us today or far, far elsewhere, I was able to receive the gift of an Episcopal-grade education. This is why the Courage Campaign means so much to me and should mean so much to you. It is because that many more students will have the chance to take part in this great community regardless of their socioeconomic background.”
— HENRY BARRETT ’18
42
43 THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
The 2018 Strategic Plan set forth a path to optimize Episcopal’s unique strengths, and the Courage Campaign brings it to life. We are positioned to deliver an educational journey that no other school can.
MISSION TO INSPIRE COURAGE 100% RESIDENTIAL
ONLY AT EHS
THE NATION’S CAPITAL
44
View launch video produced by Luke David ’93.
1 2 3 4 5
HARNESS THE RESOURCES AND GLOBAL CONNECTIONS OF WASHINGTON, D.C.
WE WILL take full advantage of the School’s proximity to the nation’s capital with unique teaching and experiential learning moments through the McCainRavenel Center for Intellectual and Moral Courage.
DRAMATICALLY INCREASE ACCESS TO FINANCIAL AID.
WE WILL build profoundly our endowment with funds that are restricted for financial aid, the best way to create an enriching environment on our campus with an academically talented, diverse, and passionately engaged student body.
MAXIMIZE THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS AND COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY.
WE WILL reinforce the EHS Portrait of a Graduate qualities by increasing the frequency and depth of interactions between adults and students through the School’s enhanced Residential Life curriculum.
INSPIRE ACHIEVEMENT THROUGH RIGOR AND WELLNESS.
WE WILL create opportunities for students and faculty to thrive through an intentional and inspirational balance of ambitious pursuits and healthy lifestyles.
INVEST IN OUR COMMITMENT TO A WORLD CLASS FACULTY AND STAFF.
WE WILL build the resources to attract and retain gifted and diverse faculty and staff dedicated to the School’s mission and eager to take full advantage of Episcopal’s unmatched professional environment and opportunities.
WITH COURAGE, WE WILL...
45 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
COURAGE CAMPAIGN CABINET
A group of esteemed leaders was chosen to help the School achieve the far-reaching campaign goals. As former members of the Board of Trustees who served during the 2018 strategic planning process and the launch of the leadership phase of Courage, each was a pivotal player in the shaping of the campaign. They are compelling ambassadors and are particularly articulate when speaking about their devotion to the School and the importance of the strategic priorities.
LEE AINSLIE ’82 P’14 ’17
Hobe Sound, Fla.
EHS Board of Trustees: 2000-2006 and 2015-2022 (Chair, 2019-2022)
Founder and Managing Partner of Maverick Capital
“It is hard to put into words how much Episcopal means to me and my family given our deep history with the School. While Episcopal has always focused on maintaining a tradition of consistent excellence, I take pride in the fact that Episcopal also strives continuously to find ways to improve while upholding the institution’s traditional values. I am excited to support the Courage Campaign, which will be transformative for the experience of every Episcopal student.”
ROBERT MASON ’77 P’15
Charlotte, N.C.
EHS Board of Trustees: 2015-2021
Chairman of Robert E. Mason & Associates, a provider of industrial automation and engineering services in the U.S.
“Episcopal High School has had such a positive impact on my life and so many others. I want to continue to support the mission and core beliefs of Episcopal. The Courage Campaign is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do that.”
RODNEY ROBINSON ’86
Sarasota, Fla.
EHS Board of Trustees: 1998-2000 and 2016-2022
Recently retired from Global Marketing Solutions at Meta
“I am humbled and proud to be in a position to support the Courage Campaign. Hindsight is a great benefit, and I was proud to be on the Board when we expanded the campus plan in the 1990s, and it is even more exciting to see the evolution of how we can support students and faculty for the next generation. Episcopal is truly a special environment that stays with all of us for life.”
KATHRYN TYREE P’17 ’19
New York, N.Y.
EHS Board of Trustees: 2014-2020
Partner of Brown Brothers Harriman (BBH) and chair of the BBH Center for Women and Wealth and Center for Family Business
“I support EHS because of its unwavering commitment to preparing our children with the strength of character and life skills that are necessary to be true leaders in whatever path they choose.”
46
IS A $150 MILLION CAMPAIGN, THE MOST AMBITIOUS IN THE SCHOOL’S HISTORY.
Faculty Homes Track & Field The Roll Call
MILLION
“Success is giving our students an exceptional and rigorous academic experience while keeping character at the forefront. We are committed to the development of intellectual and moral courage so that our students can go out into the world and make a difference. They will be the ethical leaders that this world needs.”
CHARLEY STILLWELL, HEAD OF SCHOOL
For more information, please visit: episcopalhighschool.org/courage
ANNUAL
ENDOWMENT
Financial
CAPITAL PROJECTS $55 MILLION
FUND $25
$70 MILLION
Aid Student Life Faculty & Staff Capital Renewal Two Dormitories deButts Health & Wellness Center
47 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
48
REACHING THE SUMMIT
Rising seniors find themselves in the outdoors thanks to the vision and passion of a generous alumnus.
In 2008, alumnus and EHS Trustee Emeritus John Townsend ’73 established the Diamond Acre trip, a three-week excursion throughout the west for 12 to 14 emerging student leaders. Townsend, a lifelong outdoor enthusiast, and his family have found solace in Grand Teton National Park in Jackson Hole, Wyo., for over 30 years, and he hoped that, in establishing the trip, he could encourage the next generation of High Schoolers to embrace the great outdoors as well.
Through his gift to Courage: The Campaign for Episcopal , Townsend has committed to endow the trip in perpetuity, renaming it the Double Diamond Expedition and making it accessible for students for generations to come. The trip is named after the origins of Townsend’s family ranch in Grand Teton National Park, which is nestled at the foot of the Grand Teton and remains one of the only private properties within the publicly owned land. Townsend himself has been hiking, climbing, and skiing in the park for three decades, and he and his wife Marree now spend roughly 70 to 80 days a year at their beloved Wyoming property.
“When our property was established 101 years ago, it was named the Double Diamond Ranch and its purpose was for young men exclusively
from Harvard, Yale, and Princeton to come out and spend the summer getting a true western experience, much as our young people do today with Wilderness Ventures,” Townsend explained. “The owner of the Double Diamond eventually sold most of the property to the Rockefeller entity that was buying up the land that is now Grand Teton National Park. He kept a small parcel for himself
along with some cabins, which is what we own today. So the Double Diamond has real educational significance and in many ways was the precursor to what we are doing today.”
The three-and-a-half-week expedition is run by Wilderness Ventures, an organization that has led outdoor excursions for teenagers since 1973. Townsend, who started mountaineering as an adult, selected Wilderness Ventures to design and lead the trip based on their outstanding reputation. The
FEATURE 49 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
“It gave me so much confidence that I can do anything if I put my mind to something and I have the support of people around me.”
—ERIN PHILLIPS ’18
trip includes hiking and camping in Montana and Wyoming; whitewater rafting on the Salmon River in Idaho; and climbing the Grand Teton in Wyoming. Exum Mountain Guides, the oldest guide service in the U.S., leads the climb of The Grand.
When Townsend began financing the trip, he never envisioned participating with the students. But that first year, he found himself summiting The Grand alongside the rising seniors, seeing for himself just how transformative an experience like that could be on a young student. “I would get up there with these young people and they would literally change in front of my eyes,” Townsend recounted. While he was out of town this year, the EHS students had their final dinner at his property, in the shadow of The Grand, still basking in the glow of summiting one of America’s classic peaks just hours before.
Episcopal strives to instill intellectual and moral courage in its students, and place-based learning has long played a significant role in getting students out of their comfort zones and molding them into the portrait of an EHS graduate. “I truly understood moral and intellectual courage when I climbed the Grand Teton,” said Mary Schroeder ’23. “I realized this is courage.”
Despite being rising seniors, the Double Diamond Expedition group didn’t know each other very well before meeting up for their flight to Jackson Hole, which resulted in some butterflies and nerves. Thirty minutes in, they were playing Uno on the floor of the airport and already connecting in ways that wouldn’t have been possible without getting outside their comfort zones. Becca Losey ’23 reflected on the closeness of the group: “What I valued most was time spent around the fire with each other at the end of long days. I already look back on it fondly.”
Erin Phillips ’18 recently returned to The Holy Hill as a teaching fellow, coach, and advisor, among other roles. She attended the trip in the summer of 2017 and still remembers it like it was yesterday. She recounted that the trip prepared her and her fellow classmates to lead the student body when
they returned to campus for their senior year. “I think back on the experience and feel like that’s where I really changed and made the switch into being an adult,” Phillips said.
The most difficult part of Phillips’ journey came at 4 a.m. on the mountain one pitch-black morning. Her headlamp had gone out and her group was racing an incoming storm to summit The Grand. She was attached to her group of six by a lone rope, and she said she learned more about the importance of leadership at that moment than in any other instance in her life. The trip was hard and physical, and despite being an accomplished hiker, Phillips struggled mentally to tackle the hard moments where her body and brain were both equally tired. “I learned how to comfort someone in a time of crisis when they really need your support,” she said, “…something that still helps me to this day.”
As the Double Diamond Expedition approaches its 15th anniversary, Townsend’s original vision has come true again and again. As he envisioned the trip, he thought that “if you could have an incredible outdoor experience at a young age, say while you are at Episcopal, maybe that would be impactful enough to change who you are as a person.” The students and beneficiaries of his generosity agree: “This is truly an experience that no other high schoolers get to experience, thanks to Mr. Townsend,” recapped Will Snead ’23. “I know it’s going to be one of the moments I look back most fondly on from my time at Episcopal.”
50
Townsend (far left) pictured on the trip with members of the Classes of 2009 and 2010
OUT OF THE BLUE
How EHS became the Maroon and Black.
The beloved phrase “Go Maroon!” has not always been in the EHS vernacular. In fact, for its early years, Episcopal did not have any school colors, much less the well-known Maroon and Black we celebrate today. In 1888, students formed a committee to select school colors. With an eye toward practicality, the committee sought colors that were readily available for caps, blazers, and uniforms for football and baseball. The committee also looked for colors that were not susceptible to staining and were colorfast, since fading or running colors would not convey the strength and endurance Episcopal’s athletes sought to project on the playing field. With these criteria in mind, the committee unanimously chose light blue and black. The decision was announced to the community in the November 1888 edition of The Chronicle, where it was declared: “Blue and black, then, will hereafter be the School colors.”
After a few short years of enduring taunts from
opponents and threats of being “beaten black and blue,” EHS students decided it was time for a change. A new committee of five was formed to change the School’s official colors. William Old, EHS Class of 1891, recounted the process in a 1951 letter.
Old recalled, “We obtained samples of a large number of colors from merchants, and, after many conferences decided that Maroon and Black were the most satisfactory; not only because they were well matched, but because they were characteristic of the dignity and high standing, both collegiate and otherwise, of this school.”
Reflecting on the decision, Old declared, “The colors were adopted. They waved for nearly sixty years. May they wave ever more.” This time, the choice endured. For over one hundred years and counting, EHS fans have cheered on the Maroon, just as Syracuse University has cheered on the Orange and Harvard has cheered for the Crimson. Go Maroon!
FROM THE ARCHIVES
52
“The colors were adopted. They waved for nearly sixty years. May they wave ever more.”
— WILLIAM OLD, CLASS OF 1891
53 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
The EHS baseball team during the blue and black era
The EHS baseball team during the maroon and black era
An excerpt from the November 1888 edition of The Chronicle
MEGA REUNIONS ARE HERE TO STAY!
Every other year. Twice as big.
The feedback from our alumni was crystal clear: Celebrating jointly with peer classes made Reunion Weekend even more meaningful to all who attended. With that in mind, Episcopal is trying something new.
We will host Reunion every other June and invite twice as many classes.
Each class will celebrate every 4-6 years instead of every 5 years.
Each class will alternate between joining the class above or below them.
Reunions will happen in years when The Game is away, so alumni are encouraged to visit us for The Game during non-Reunion years!
COMING JUNE 2024
CELEBRATING THE CLASSES OF:
5th REUNIONS — 2018 + 2019
10th REUNIONS — 2013 + 2014
15th REUNIONS — 2008 + 2009
20th REUNIONS — 2003 + 2004
25th REUNIONS — 1998 + 1999
30th REUNIONS — 1993 + 1994
35th REUNIONS — 1988 + 1989
40th REUNIONS — 1983 + 1984
45th REUNIONS — 1978 + 1979
50th REUNIONS — 1973 + 1974
55th REUNIONS — 1968 + 1969
60th REUNIONS — 1963 + 1964
65th REUNIONS — 1958 + 1959
Join the bell society today for the students of tomorrow
Episcopal
a beneficiary
estate planning.
bequests, charitable income gifts,
life insurance gifts.
generosity and foresight of Bell Society members will ensure excellence for future generations.
Email Director of Planned Giving Kent Alley P’22, kda@episcopalhighschool.org.
Members may name
as
in their
Gifts include
or
The
Questions?
Class Notes
’47
Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
’48
Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
’49
Herbert Donovan (C) 914-645-6561 hdonovan@gmail.com
’50
Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
’51
Minor Marston sizzle34@verizon.net
’52
Harte Crow hcahcrow@gmail.com
’53
Edward Mullins (C) 803-463-1440 ewmullinsjr@gmail.com
Jonathan Bryan says, “After four years in our Episcopal-church life-plan retirement home, Judy and I are truly glad to have the assurance of life-long care; many new friends; visits with family and old friends (Ted Scarborough and Sandy Roe, classmates). I’ve digitized our writings and other life-records to leave our heirs. All in all, doing fine.”
Sam Holt says, “The Old Testament discusses a man’s lifetime as ‘three score and ten’ years. If so, the EHS Class of 1953 climbed The Holy Hill for its senior year a lifetime ago.
There are several ways to submit Class Notes:
1. Submit news online through the alumni portal at episcopalhighschool.org;
2. Contact your Class Correspondent by phone, mail, or email; or
3 Write your news in the space provided on the Roll Call reply card and mail it with your annual gift.
Some days, it feels like it; other times it’s more ‘Yesterday’ than The Beatles knew. To those of us left — and I’m sure I’m not unique in reading the obits first when I get EHS publications — there has been a lifetime of living packed into those years. Still, I know I’m unique in my retrieval of that senior year. As a Senior Rat, my time was clearly atypical. But, by that Spring, my experience with life there was different: still with some daylight after dinner, the resulting gatherings at the edge of the playing fields became pretty typical and my interaction with the class had become comfortable. And this was true despite still facing a Rat’s duties — things like “bells” and getting people up and holding doors (especially for the always-late junior on the floor above me, Johnny McCain ’54). The duties seemed more an issue of politeness and less a burden than they had a few months before. As I’ve noted before, EHS dramatically reordered my life, and in a good way. I cannot imagine what I would have done after going to some college from my public high school in Birmingham. I have no doubt it would have been less meaningful than I naturally assumed — and found — after that year at EHS.
Bailey Patrick Jr. writes, “I am still practicing a bit of law, but spending more time in the mountains. We enjoyed seeing Nelson Weston ’54 and Dot earlier this summer. Our family continues to grow: three children, nine grandchildren, with the August addition, four great grandchildren, and three more on the way, including nine Old Boys and Girls.”
Peter Page says, “Donna and I retired to Virginia permanently in 2015. We still have children, grandchildren and great grandchildren in Juneau. We visited them this summer for the first time since Covid. Donna and I both tested positive for Covid soon after returning from Alaska; however, we are both fully vaccinated with one booster and had negligible symptoms. We are both long in the clear and enjoying the farm life.”
’54 Charles Covell (C) 502-639-2691
covell@louisville.edu
Mort Boyd wrote: “Hi Charlie. Slowly but surely the Boyd family is emerging from the era of pandemic and getting out with friends, etc. Had a slight setback about six weeks ago when I tested positive for Covid, but fortunately it was a very mild case but did involve a period of isolation. Otherwise our health is remarkably good. Am enjoying our country home in lovely Kentucky and plan to migrate south to Georgia when fall sets in. In the meantime I’m riding my tractor and playing some golf, poorly I might add.
Gill Holland responded, “Dear Charlie, Good to hear from you! Thanks! Sounds as if you and Betty are surviving in style! I hope Siri and I are too here at the Pines at Davidson retirement home! Will try to think of something worth sending you for the EHS news!”
Darrell Jervey wrote, “Had my 66th on August 23, we have 11 grandchildren and one great — still doing voluntary eye exams for the homeless and at a free medical clinic. My wife Pat and I had our 64th anniversary last June — both still fairly healthy for the age. Our current dog is still a great pleasure. Covid has kept us pretty well restricted, but still unaffected. Thank you for keeping up with all of us.”
John Mason said, “Well, Charlie, you’re in good company — one of several I’ve queried about The High School’s drift to port these days. They do the Tar Baby thing — ain’t say nothin’. So we won’t go there today. Down here in LSV I see Old Boys frequently. Yesterday I played bridge with a pickup partner, Sandy Rowe ’64, who turned out to be from a class ten years after ours. If I remember, there was a Sandy Rowe ’53 a year or two ahead of us. No kin, said Sandy yesterday. One of our opponents at the game had his hundredth birthday a week ago. That got us remembering favorite masters, Mr. Callaway
56 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office.
1 2 3
in particular. Better to bring up those names than to go on about our ailments.”
A contribution from Bill Pender: “Good to hear from you Charles as always. I thought our classmates might enjoy a summary of Headmaster R. P. William’s great book about the founding and wonderful highlights of Episcopal over the years. Reading it again helped me when I was recovering from the Covid.
I have been reading again The High School by Richard Pardee Williams, Jr., published in 1964. This book is well worth a revisit by our alumni and all who cradle so many memories of EHS as either students or faculty members.
The book covers the period from 1839 with the school’s founding and its purpose with highly interesting historical profiles of the Masters and Headmasters during the covered period. Among the historic plant facilities Pendleton Hall was named after the first Headmaster, William Nelson Pendleton, D.D. who had a remarkable career; student and faculty at West Point from 1826 to 1832; U.S. Army as a lieutenant before retirement in 1833; ordained as a priest before his service as Headmaster in 1839. He later became the Rector of Grace Church in Lexington, Va., where Robert E. Lee served as vestryman.
During the War Between the States, Dr. Pendleton returned to the military and served as a brigadier general and head of the artillery in Lee’s vaunted Army of Northern Virginia.
So many of us have fond memories of the book’s author: Richard P. Williams, Jr. — student, master, World War I Artillery Captain, and Headmaster. Best wishes to all classmates.”
This from Robert Wilson: “Charlie, just returned last night from a 17-day golf trip to
Scotland, my 33rd, with three friends. Fun still but poor golf. May try again next August. Fortunately, I am in good health with really no pain, post both knee replacements and bilateral rotator cuff repairs over the years. Charlie, thank you for doing the Class Notes.”
It has been a pleasure and an honor to serve as your class correspondent for the last few years.
Please write any time and help keep our dwindling classmates updated. Best wishes to you all for healthy and happy days ahead. Cheers, Charlie
’55 Sandy Wise (C) 614-638-5190
hawppmd@gmail.com
65th Reunion:
’56 Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
We thank Fielder Israel for his service as a Class Correspondent.
’57 Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
’58 Surry Roberts surryroberts@adventure777.com
Joint 65th Reunion with 1959: June 2024
Tom Boyd and his wife, Judy, traveled to visit their grandson, Will from Baltimore, in “Bernie Country,” Vermont. Will will likely never return. They stayed south of Burlington on Lake Champlain at Basin Harbor: “So beautiful, a wonderful place to go, get away, and relax.” Fall is close in C’ville, near UVA. When the students come back, Tom says, “The Circus is back in town!” Tom and Judy are “doing well for Octogenarians!”
Rick Pietsch continues to be married, vertical, running — though slowly — playing golf, and in a jazz band in Naples. It’s all kept him pretty busy! He recommends a good page turner: Bill O’Reilly’s “Killing the Killers and Killing Lincoln.” Rick and Pope Shuford both really enjoyed “Pearl in the Storm.”
Carl Ragsdale reports: “Alicia and I lead a quiet life. Our cruising days are pretty much over. I have given up tennis and marathons and I have this terminal disease called AGE but seem to be in pretty good health for 82. Alicia unfortunately has ALS which has prompted us to move into a beautiful senior citizen facility in Wilmington in October. We hate to leave Beaufort. It’s the best place we have ever lived. At the moment we are enjoying every day — went to Cape Lookout yesterday on my daughter and son-in-law’s boat. I am very proud that six of our grandchildren attended EHS, and all graduated. Two were valedictorians. Tim Burnett says they must be adopted, couldn’t be mine. Whatever happens in the future, we have had a great life and look forward to our Reunion.”
Surry Roberts recently traveled to “unknown” Kentucky for a four-day, 840-mile search for adventure with Jim Gresch — former innkeeper at Sugar Hollow Retreat in northeastern Tennessee — who owns a new fire-engine red, rear-engine Corvette, which caused remarks at every stop. Noah’s Ark Encounter is beyond comment, simply gigantic — see Wikipedia! We visited the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green; it was truly fascinating with racing engines and celebrities all involved. Mary Todd Lincoln had three of four sons die in youth and she was holding hands with Abe when he was shot at Ford’s Theatre on April 15th. She came from the extremes of wealth and Abe from a meager log cabin. Against the grain of usual thinking,
57 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Class of ’57 in front of Hoxton House at Mega Reunion in June. Shep Ansley ’57, Chip Buxton ’57, Mary Buxton, Tom Davenport ’57, and Louie Gump ’57.
I believe Mary Todd Lincoln was a truly remarkable woman. Henry Clay was noted as one of the five top statesmen in American history. He ran for president three times, led the Missouri Compromise and Compromise of 1850, and helped introduce breeding of horses and racing to Lexington and, in turn, the world. Mills Springs Battlefield established General George Thomas as a unique Commander, loyal to the USA, for sure. A multitude of stops created joy!”
Pope Shuford sends along the exaltation that he and Peggy have reached their 60th wedding anniversary!
Richard Somerville has made some major home improvements and says, “The experience turned out to be very educational. I wrote an article detailing the costs and benefits of modifying my house to operate almost entirely on electricity, then installing solar panels. Now my house uses almost no fossil fuels. Powering it with solar energy reduces carbon dioxide emissions, helping to limit climate change. Making these improvements was quick, easy, and saved money, probably enough to pay for them in relatively few years. However, I also learned that liberating the entire world from its addiction to fossil fuels will be difficult and costly, and that task is likely to take several decades or longer. My article is freely available at: https://thebulletin.org/2022/08/weaning-a-house-and-theworld-from-fossil-fuels-lessons-learned/.”
George Graham Trask is inspired and reports “after the passage of a mere 64 years since we were graduated from EHS (notice Mr. Ravenel’s influence “were graduated”). EHS 1958, Davidson College 1962, except University of Vienna 1961, Harvard Law School 1967.
“College was essentially useless compared to EHS in the 1950s. Nothing has been more valuable to my life than what I learned there, especially from our English teacher, William Bee Ravenel, and our math teacher, Patrick Henry Callaway.
Travels: Immediately after graduation in 1958 an ocean liner took schoolmates Charles Matheson, Lenox Baker, my late brother Charles Trask, and me on a grand two-month-long tour of Europe under the chaperonage of our eccentric French teacher, Mr. Harnly. I became a citizen of the world as a result of this and scores of subsequent trips that continue to this very summer of 2022.
Books with me on my current voyage are “Leadership: Six Studies in World Strategy” by Henry Kissinger and “The Last Warrior: Andrew Marshall and the Shaping of Modern American Defense Strategy” by Andrew F. Krepinevich and Barry D. Watts — weighty reading. For understanding that the more things change on Earth the more they remain the same be sure to read “The Description of the World” by Marco Polo.
Parting Thoughts: Be thankful to be born with good genes and to be friends with a good woman, the two best antidotes to old age. Ignore the “news,” which is all propaganda. Enjoy children and grandchildren and make new friends with their friends. And live on an island in upper coastal Maine in summers where it’s cool. Onward to the 90s!”
Pat Waters reports that over the past two years he has had repeated visits to the Cleveland Clinic for treatments for atrial fibrillation which “after a 6 hour procedure came out perfectly. As I continue to age I continue to slow down and with the Covid issues have stayed grounded. “Nothing to report,” he says. “Salutations!”
’59
Page Dame
(C) 802-624-0071
wpdame3@gmail.com
Joint 65th Reunion with 1958: June 2024 Warner Bass writes, “Madge and I have been in an unfancy part of Colorado near the Rocky Mountain National Park for the last month, but unfortunately came down with Covid just as we arrived. We took Paxlovid, following the example set by Uncle Joe Biden, and recovered in a week or so. Regrettably, I also followed his example and relapsed, but am now fine in time for a visit from one of my sons. The bad news is that he has now come down with Covid, which will keep us close to home until we go back to Nashville for Labor Day. Not the script for the summer that we expected to follow, but no complaints, given our general good health. I spoke with our old compatriot J.D. Simpson a couple of days ago and he is in good order, but, if pressed, can usually come up with something to complain about. I see Rob Cheek, Lucius Burch, Shade Murray, and Norris Nielsen ’56 very regularly, and stay in somewhat looser touch with Hayes Noel, a Californian, but who usually manages a Nashvillle visit once a year. All of them are well and, as always, wonderful
and fun friends. If any of you manage to get to Nashvillle, let us know. The city is booming and, among other superlatives, is now recognized as the number one destination in the country for bachelorette parties. Best to all.”
George Brewer says, “We share a 100 year old house atop a mountain outside of Hendersonville, N.C., which is why I am smiling in response to your note. Probably some 20 degrees cooler than Mt. Pleasant, S.C. Becoming a codger does have some benefits. When I remember first looking at EHS Class Notes long ago, I thought that the most interesting/hilarious entry was some guy, I think from Charlottesville, bragging that he had just been named head projectionist at some local theater. I would love to meet that guy. Blessings to all.”
Page Dame writes, “Life in the Land of the Lotus Eaters (a.k.a SW Florida) continues unchanged, with one day flowing seamlessly into the next and every day is summer (some hotter than others). We spent the first two weeks of July in Williamsburg, a favorite destination. We dined and ate oysters with Russell Buxton several times. Junius Fishburne ’58 and his wife Bernadette came up from Elizabeth City, N.C., for lunch and we gladly reminisced about our two-month grand tour of Europe in the summer of 1958.
At the end of August, Beverly and I headed north to spend the month of September in North Hatley, Quebec, where we were living prior to moving to Sarasota. It will be our first time back since we left five years ago. We have missed it and our many friends a great deal, but my COPD dictated the need for a warmer climate.
I only wish we could gather in person more often. On we go, remembering the three F’s.”
Fred Dashiell says, “I have lived in Los Angeles (west side near the Santa Monica airport) for only 42 years now. Lately I have taken up paddling with a local outrigger canoe club, both in my single-seat OC1 and six-seat team canoes. The marina is 15 minutes from my house. Paula and I have two daughters in California, and three grandsons between them, all ages six or under. I am active in writing research mathematics, some in collaboration with like-minded colleagues, and even have gotten a book and some articles published recently. We vacationed in Maine (Bar Harbor), Vermont (Northeast Kingdom) and Wyoming (Jackson Hole, Grand Teton,
58 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
and Yellowstone) this summer. Dodged Covid so far, but that may be just dumb luck. Health seems good after some procedures in hospitals, which I now try to keep away from. Contact me if you have some time in the area.”
William Flippin reports, “I just turned 82 on August 19; am playing golf 3-4 times a week with my handicap bouncing around between 18 and 22 from the forward tees. Got a putter that seems to work. Droopy.”
Sandy Hale says, “We’re heading to Maine, too, to a place near Deer Isle where we used to go each year with our young kids — almost 45 years ago. One of our two granddaughters is just starting at the University of Kentucky, where she will compete on their equestrian team. She is heading off to horse trials in England at the end of this month.”
Howard Holden says, “I have had no notable ‘adventures’ since our last reporting, but I too enjoy reading about other classmates. Not certain just what the definition of “normal life” is supposed to be in 2022, yet good habits and thoughts are hard to break. Glad to realize that so many of our class are still alive and can remember our years spent “on the Hill.”
John Hutchinson writes, “Greetings from Rionegro, Antioquia, Colombia near Medellin. The weather is delightful and the country is beautiful. Never warmer than 75 degrees F. Great golf course here. I play every day at Club La Macarena Golf Course in Rionegro, Antioquia, Colombia. You walk here… no golf carts.The hilliness is exhausting beyond belief. There is nothing flat. I invite you all to visit. Tourism is increasing in spite of the haunting memories of the past. I was fortunate to survive Covid twice. Life has been a real adventure. I keep in touch with Bill Flippin ’59. Have a good friend in the government in Washington and he sent me the best quote I have heard… ‘I work around people whose brain is in neutral and mouth is in overdrive.’ I think that explains everything. Our generation lived through the best years in the U.S. As long as we have a country that allows us to decide whether we are male, female or other, I don’t understand.”
Mike Pleninger says, “Checking in from Williamsburg, Va. It is a great place to visit and I’d love to catch up with any of you who come our way. As for me, I am still active in the hotel business with Marriott, Hilton, and IHG management and ownership… working one day a week as long as they continue
to invite me to meetings. I am enjoying the time off. A year ago, we moved into a CCRC, which has worked out tremendously. Next summer, Marcia and I celebrate our 60th anniversary! We still go to Naples, Fla., every January to April, and try to head north for a few weeks to get out of the hot Tidewater summer. We are spoiled and glad to be on this side of the grass.”
J.B. Thompson says, “I head north as well; but in my case to Maine, a favorite place to go for the last twenty years. Earlier this evening I saw Lee Ordeman for the first time in months. I expressed my disappointment in missing the memorial service for his father. Unfortunately, Ashby and I had bad Covid symptoms at that time. It turned out to be some other virus, but it definitely made no sense to be in the middle of a crowded chapel under the circumstances. Lee said that he is putting together a compilation of the service and I will attempt to route it to the class. Jack touched so many lives in a positive way. Best to all!”
’60
Bill Drennen
(C) 304-283-5011
wmdrennen1@me.com
Joint 65th Reunion with 1961: June 2026
’61
Elliott Randolph
elliott.randolph@comcast.net
Lanier Woodrum
(C) 540-314-5352
lbwoodrum@cox.net
Joint 65th Reunion with 1960: June 2026
’62
Al Berkeley
(C) 443-310-0588
AlfredBerkeley@gmail.com
Joint 65th Reunion with 1963: June 2028
’63
Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
Joint 60th Reunion with 1964: June 2024
’64
Alex Jones
(C) 617-549-8203
alexsjones2@gmail.com
Joint 60th Reunion with 1963: June 2024
If you do a Google search for “John Keith Virginia Attorney,” one of the first things to pop up is a profile of John on the “Super Lawyers” site. The organization has designated him a Super Lawyer every year since 2006.
“All that stuff is a complete load of crap,” is John’s response. Hmmm… The fact is that John is one of the few members of our class who still goes to work as he has been doing — at Blankingship and Keith in Fairfax — for nearly fifty years. But he says that in 2023 he will take less money and also take it easier. “I don’t want to have the pressure of having to keep my numbers up,” which is often the complaint of lawyers in a firm when they reach our venerable age. “I’m sick of competing for money.” He will have an office, but have more time for doing things — THE things — he wants to do. Last summer, for instance, he went to Scotland for two weeks, and discovered that he loved haggis, the traditional Scottish dish of sheep’s heart, liver, lungs mixed with oatmeal, onion, and suet. Traditionally, it is cooked in a casing made of the sheep’s stomach. “I love haggis!” he declares. “And also kippers,” a herring gutted, salted or pickled, and cold smoked over smoldering wood chips. “I had haggis every morning for breakfast.” I have never encountered anyone who spoke so highly of haggis.
But John is a man of many parts. He is a subscriber to the “PoetryDaily” app, which sends him a poem every day. He says he looks at the title, and then decides whether to read — and ponder — the poem. “It’s a challenge, a puzzle,” he says. His daughter Sally is a noted poet and has had several award-winning collections of poetry published. She is a graduate of Bucknell and the prestigious Iowa Writers’ Workshop.
Her recent book, “River House,” is focused on her late mother, Ann, who died in 2010. She was John’s girlfriend when he was at EHS, and much beloved by all who knew her. She had sparkling eyes and a warm — and bemused — smile that suggested she saw the humor in almost everything. She and John had three daughters and a son. In Sally’s collection, for which she won a Guggenheim Fellowship, she writes of memories focused on the River House, a place where the family
59 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
often went. “It is the first of her books of poetry that I understood,” said John — not entirely joking. The poems powerfully resonated with him, such as one in which Sally and Ann spoke to each other on the telephone as they both looked at the moon.
“I really admire poets,” John says, “and the way they bend over backwards to utilize language that way. And I can get something powerful from a poem if I only understand it at a one-level, rather than a ten-level.” His pet peeve at the moment is the proliferation of data centers in Northern Virginia. “They are the shape of three-story shoe boxes, except two football-fields long and with no windows, like a Scottish Rite Masonic Temple.” The area has the three things needed for such places: lots of electricity, fiber optic infrastructure, and water for cooling.” A huge consumer of the data is the CIA. “I am told that 80 percent of the data on the internet comes through Northern Virginia,” he says, acknowledging he doesn’t know if that is precisely accurate. But true or not, the data centers are popping up like mushrooms.
’65Richard Lee (C) 617-512-2034
dlee60@verizon.net
Joint 60th Reunion with 1966: June 2026
Time… age… more meaningful priorities?
And the semi-annual nature of Class Notes is no match for social media. An appeal for news garnered one response. But it was a good one. Ward Carr sends us his most amusing interview with a 98-year-old German POW from WWII. This is news we can use. Richard Statetzny played gridiron halfback for Kiernan’s Krushers in the storied Stockton, California Barbed Wire Bowl in 1946. They were up against Barager’s Bears. In Germany, he still follows NFL ball on TV, but notes, “at the age of 98, after midnight, I am looking for my bed and not a football game.” Midnight? How many of us in our mid-seventies stay up ’til midnight?
No… wait. Two responses! John (Hunter) Robinson sends us a photo of a fishing trip with his oldest grandson, Caleb — clearly, all growed up! It sounds like a great trip to Alaska in June. One can’t beat such circumstances at our age — a matter of staying as healthy and vertical as we might be permitted. And so ’65 Class Notes marches on. Ever in
earnest fashion. We are now soliciting reports for the spring ’23 edition.
’66
Jack Sibley
(C) 404-290-6427 jack@sibleyfarm.net
Phil Terrie
(C) 810-300-5311 pterrie@bgsu.edu
Howell Hollis Howell.hollis@outlook.com
Joint 60th Reunion with 1965: June 2026
Our (slightly delayed) 55th Reunion was a grand success, comfortably unhurried and without the feverish bustle of college reunions. Showing up at one time or another were Whitt Clement, Jenks Hobson, Billy Peelle, Jack Sibley, Henry Smythe, Phil Terrie, and Pete Young. The weather was superb, the planning (including the food) excellent, and the conversations delightful. A sign of our accumulated years: On Saturday night at about 9:00 we were sitting outside, everyone drinking water or seltzer. Simultaneously, we began looking at our watches. Within 15
60 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Hunter Robinson ’65 fishing with his grandson.
Jack Sibley ’66 with extended family at his farm outside Atlanta, including Evan Remmes ’96, Lexa Sibley Remmes ’97, Jack Sibley ’03, and “nine potential applicants.”
minutes, we’d all scattered for bed. Hope to see you at the 60th!
The alumni office truly does a terrific job, handling innumerable details with grace and apparent ease. My sincere thanks to all who labored to pull off what must be a torturously complicated affair.
Jack Sibley shared a photo of an extended family gathering at his and Cary’s farm outside Atlanta, including Evan Remmes ’96, Lexa Sibley Remmes ’97, Jack Sibley ’03, and “nine potential applicants.”
Randy Wyckoff reports the birth of his first grandchild, a girl. “Her parents moved east from LA and bought a house one half mile from us.”
The Honorable Bill Lewis ’69
At 71 years old, Bill Lewis ’69 has never had a day where he felt like staying in bed and not going to the courthouse. As the presiding judge for five counties in the 15th judicial district of Virginia, Lewis’ 10-12 hour days are filled with 30-40 cases in five different locations.
“I’m not slowing down anytime soon,” Lewis said. “I don’t see myself fully retiring for a good while.”
For the first 39 years of his career, Lewis was a third generation lawyer at his family’s law firm. He eventually became a judge focused on juvenile and domestic relations. “Anything dealing with a minor automatically comes to me,” Lewis explained. “Whether it’s a custody case, child support, mental health issues, or school truancy, all of those kinds of matters come before me.”
As a presiding judge he manages the courts, assigns cases to other judges and specialized courts, oversees the court calendar, and also decides on cases. Serving five jurisdictions, Lewis sees nearly 100 families per week. His goal is to guide them in the decision-making process when there’s a variety of possibilities and outcomes. Determined to be poised, judicious, and inspiring, he hopes to positively influence every person who lands in his courtroom.
“What I try to impress upon people is that I’m not there to punish them, I’m there to help them make it through a really difficult stretch of their life,” Lewis said.
As the former chair of the Honor Committee at EHS, Lewis set the standard for integrity on The Holy Hill during his senior year and continues that leadership to this day. Transitioning to his career as a judge only six years ago in 2016, he treats each case as if it’s the most important. He prides himself in giving the same attention to his entire case load regardless of its content. He even attends the high school graduations of the teens who came through his courtroom.
“They need to know that I wasn’t just talking about it and that my expectations of their successes are just as great as anyone else’s,” Lewis told us.
Lewis’ time at The High School had a major influence on his law career. Episcopal was integrated when he was a senior and introduced him to a different outlook. The dialogue and conversations surrounding integration gave him an opportunity to encounter a wide range of people and perspectives that swayed his passion for public service.
“The range of people who were at Episcopal made me realize that there were lots of people who needed help and if I had the ability to provide that help, I should do that,” Lewis stated. “Living together is just a microcosm of what life is like.”
Lewis hopes that current EHS students discover what they fundamentally love to do and the reason behind their passions. They must always consider and encourage the success of others, maintain their honesty, and recognize that reputation is their most important asset. Married to his high school sweetheart, an alumna of down the road rival St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes, Lewis is nearing the mandatory retirement age of 75. “Even with mandatory retirement coming, I would still like to stay involved and share what knowledge I have gained through the years,” Lewis said.
61 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Marty Martin ’69 on Air Force One exhibit.
Verne Morland was happy to reconnect at Mega Reunion with long-time EHS faculty member, Jim Seidule, pictured above.
After
Episcopal
’67
Charles D. Coppage (C) 252-202-1323 charles@nccoppagelaw.com
Joint 60th Reunion with 1968: June 2028
’68
George Walker Moore (C) 864-941-0666 moorew327@aol.com
Joint 55th Reunion with 1969: June 2024
’69Marty Martin (C) 919-272-2106 marty_martin@martinlegalhelp.com
Kinloch Nelson (C) 585-733-3132 kinloch@rochester.rr.com
Joint 55th Reunion with 1968: June 2024
Bill Lane reports that to maximize the balance and variety of our twenty two years of marriage, my wife KT, daughter Tiger Lily, and I moved from the Caribbean island of St. Croix to live in the desert outside Scottsdale, Ariz., several years ago. Both children are now in LA, where my son Hudson, 40, is a filmmaker and Tiger Lily, 21, works and studies at UCLA. Retired from investment management, I’m fully involved with Biomedical Research at Princeton. I recently hit a lifetime goal with even numbered zeros to repay four fantastic years while rooming with my late closest friend Peter Vandevanter. After Lane Furniture’s LBO I realized my other dream. While living on St. Croix I spearheaded efforts as a plaintiff in the lawsuit which stopped a builder from developing the easternmost point in the United States at Point Udall named for the former U.S. Secretary of the Interior Stewart Udall. Our lawsuit enabled The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to purchase the land and establish a nature park and reserve for endangered sea turtles. Old high school and college friendships involved TNC’s President John Sawhill, EHS P’72 who oversaw the $17M purchase. I encourage classmates to visit the best island in the Caribbean where you will hike with TNC staff, watch sea turtles hatch, and sunbathe in the bay (swimsuits optional)!’’ See: https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/ where-we-work/caribbean/
In June, Marty Martin enjoyed this year’s Mega Reunion. While on the Hill he visited with Rob Whittle and Susan Anthony, Jackie
Phillips (Mr. Phillips’ wife), and Jim Seidule as well as members from multiple classes in attendance. Marty visited Verne Morland in Dayton where they toured the U.S. Air Force Museum at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. They also visited Antioch University in Yellow Springs, Ohio where Verne had to “restrain” Marty from enrolling in their doctoral program. During a late summer visit to North Carolina’s Outer Banks Sharon and Marty enjoyed dinner with Jeanne and Charles Coppage ’67. While at OBX Marty spoke briefly with Joe Boyd and reports Joe is alive and well.
Author and journalist Rob Whittle received the Washington DC Society of Professional Journalists “2022 Award for Excellence in Local Journalism” for his Alexandria Times weekly column “Dogs to
Love.” Rob’s column highlighted his relationships with Jack Russell terriers. You can read his award-winning column in the January 28, 2021 Alexandria Times issue. It is called: Poor Robert’s Ruminations with Rob Whittle: Dogs to Love.
Rob Whittle accompanied by Susan Anthony and Marty Martin attended the 2022 EHS Mega Reunion Weekend. They visited with members from the Class of ’67 and Class of ’70 who celebrated their 55th and 50th Reunions respectively.
’70
James Newman (C) 253-677-4697
62 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Newman_jim@comcast.net Joint 55th Reunion with 1971: June 2026
Geoffrey Snodgrass ’71 and his wife Holly.
Verne Morland ’69 listening to a docent at the Air Force Museum. Verne Morland ’69 trying on a NASA suit.
We waited for two years to have our 50th Reunion but it was worth the wait! In addition to having fun with all of our classmates, we enjoyed reconnecting with many friends from the Classes of ’71 and ’72. We had not seen many of them since our graduation year of 1970.
We all enjoyed the various Reunion activities starting with Friday’s dinner in Bryan Library. Coach Seidule entertained us all with a rousing speech and we were fortunate enough to have Mrs. Phillips, wife of former master Allen Phillips, supporting our Reunion. Saturday was interesting with a Zoom meeting with former Headmaster Sandy Ainslie ’56 and his wife Sharon. Dick Yarborough ’63 also joined us from Florida. There was a vibrant question-and-answer
session emceed by Skipper Fox ’71 between the members of all classes and them. Former masters Nelson McDaniel and Mike Miller also attended. Later EHS recognized David Kelso and his family for their generosity to EHS over the years and for his role in initiating the senior externship program that started in the spring of 1970. In the late afternoon Chapel service, we remembered our departed classmates Larry Lee, Tebbs Prewitt, Gene Fellows, Bill Baldwin, Paul Duke, and Tom Steptoe. Many later reached out to former master David Dougherty ’64 and all of us had a good time on Saturday night. Those in attendance were David Clarke and Cindy Craighill, Jenner Wood, Brandon and Richard Berkeley, Jim Farmer, Sarah and David Kelso, Spears Mullen, Johnny
Coupland, Jennifer and Vic Grainger, Jim Newman, Nancy and Lee McLaughlin, Clay Jacob, Peyton Prospere, Su-Su and Will Corbitt, and Cricket and Craig Stewart Chris Nufer was able to make the waiter’s Reunion. Also in attendance were Marty Martin and Rob Whittle from the Class of ’69. We recognized and thanked Craig for coordinating such a wonderful event.
Several classmates expressed their regret that they were unable to attend our Reunion. Ed Rutledge, Sam Moncure, and Roddy Davis, who were unable to attend, want to attend the 55th Reunion. Sam has a long way to travel from Asia and hopes that in a few years it will be easier to travel. Roddy updated us on his life in Greensboro. He is still practicing law and enjoys his grandchildren (two live two blocks away and three live in Greenwich, Conn.)
Hope to see everyone in 2026!
’71 Geoffrey
Snodgrass
(C) 504-914-4470
geoff@snodgrassplc.com
Joint 55th Reunion with 1970: June 2026 E. Burke Haywood writes, “I practiced law with the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office for thirty-two years — representing the State in land condemnation cases, mostly in the eastern part of the State. Towards the end of my career, I transitioned from managing cases to managing attorneys. I retired in February 2020 — just in time for the Covid lockdown.
“I remain married (42 years!) to my college girlfriend, Terri, and we have two grown sons and two wonderful daughter-in-laws. Burke Jr. practices medicine in Wilmington and John is in Raleigh. He practiced law for a few years, but now he and his wife buy and sell antique furniture and art, catering mainly to collectors.
“Terri is still working, so I have assumed primary responsibility for grocery shopping and cooking meals. We like to travel when I can lure Terri away from work. I read, garden, do Duolingo, continue to go to the YMCA regularly, and treat myself to two tennis lessons a week.”
John Moncure retired last year from the Financial Times and is dividing his time between New York and Massachusetts.
Geoffrey Snodgrass says, “Holly and I are now the proud grandparents of four
63 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Pinkney Herbert “catching some rays” on a hot summer day on the lake in Arkansas!
Darr Hall’s “spirit” is alive at Drusie & Darr in The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville, Tenn.
Class of ’72: Pinkney Herbert, Randy Metcalf, and Sam Wood playing for EHS vs. Woodberry at Yeamans Hall Club.
grandchildren, three girls and one boy. Our summer has been filled with Covid-delayed travel and it has been a treat to escape the hot and humid New Orleans weather. In June, we joined my sisters and their husbands in South Africa where we got up close and personal with the “Big Five.” We spent several weeks in July in Peru touring the Sacred Valley and Inca ruins, including Machu Picchu. Who knew the Incas developed over 5000 varieties of potatoes? A late summer trip to Norway rounded out our summer to remember. Sadly, we were not able to attend our 50th Reunion, but with the aid of modern medicine, we have every intention of returning to the Hill for our 60th.”
’72Beau
Wilson
(C) 828-390-9802
beauatciti@aol.com
Joint 55th Reunion with 1973: June 2028
Capt. Lee Bowden lived aboard a dive boat this summer in the Turks and Caicos and had little-to-no capability for cell service or internet. He will return in late August for his yacht brokering business in Vero Beach, Fla.
Darr Hall’s “spirit” is alive and is rooming the sixth floor at The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville according to Preacher who recently visited the hotel. Darr grew up in the hotel when his Dad was the general manager, and the five Star Restaurant is now named for Drusie and Darr! Drusie is Darr’s sister.
Josh McIntosh was sorry to miss our 50th Reunion but he was obligated to care for his granddaughter during the Covid pandemic on behalf of his daughter.
Howell Morrison was also sorry to miss the 50th Reunion for the great Class of ’72, but he burst an eardrum while water skiing and couldn’t fly on an airplane. He and Erwin are spending the fall on the college hunt for their daughter, Lilly. Howell is hoping for an institution that is “awake” but not “woke!”
Kin Nevitt was honored and proud to attend Aaron Efird’s funeral. A number of our ’72 classmates attended, including Nick Conner
Wayne Smith and his wife, Carla, had their second grandchild on April 12, 2022. Her name is Maya Siobhan Smith. Her middle name is an Irish Gaelic form of Joan and means “the Lord is gracious.” He says, “We are thrilled to have both a grandson and granddaughter. Carla and I have just returned
from a 15-day trip to Portugal and Spain that had been postponed twice due to Covid restrictions, etc. We had a blast and it was so wonderful to be traveling abroad again! My business (Thermo King) continues to thrive despite the pandemic and we are on our way to another record year this year. I now have four dealership locations — two in Missouri and two in Oklahoma. I’m sorry that I could not attend our 50th class Reunion; that week I was in the middle of relocating my 90 year old mother from Pensacola to Jacksonville, Fla. She is in a retirement facility in Jacksonville, where my sister lives and who watches over her weekly (sometimes daily). As they say, ‘life is good.’ I count my blessings every day!”
In August, EHS beat Woodberry at Yeamans Golf Club in Hanahan, S.C., and regained the Alumni Trophy. Pinkney Herbert, Randy Metcalf, and Sam Wood won their singles matches. EHS had two rookies this year, each of whom distinguished themselves as new players and teammates:
Pinkney Herbert and Ben Shuford ’09 .
Since Pinkney went 2-1, he is our ‘Rookie of the Year!’ Meanwhile, Pinkney Herbert was also ‘catching the rays’ on an Arkansas Lake this past hot summer!
’73
Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
Joint 50th Reunion with 1974: June 2024
’74
Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
Joint 50th Reunion with 1973: June 2024
64 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Class of 1973 at Callaway Gardens: Linda and Gene Brooks, George Van Meter, David Carr, Beth and Easley Johnson, Gaylor and Bradley Lummis, Nancy and Richard Manning, Lee and Henry Morgan, and Lawton Stephens.
Class of 1973: Walter Cart, Eddie Broyles, Easley Johnson, Billy Peebles.
’75
Stuart Grainger (C) 910-352-7474
stuart.grainger@milliken.com
Joint 50th Reunion with 1976: June 2026
Greetings from Wilmington, N.C. I turned 66 in August, and I am still working for Milliken. Anne and I are off to Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic on Labor Day weekend for the second time. It’s an incredible 7,000acre resort with several Pete Dye golf courses. In the meantime, I continue to meet alumni from The High School every month that are now living in the area. John Coupland ’70 from Durham retired here about a year ago. He is close friends with my cousin Mark Gardner ’71. We recently had lunch together. John and his wife were heading on a trip to
Africa in late summer. I see Woody Coley ’73 and wife Melanie frequently at the St. James summer chapel in Airlie Gardens. They are still in Chapel Hill and have a beach house at Figure 8 Island. David Jones is still with Merrill Lynch in Charlotte. He reports that son David Jones III ’17 graduated from Vanderbilt and is working in Richmond. His son Hunter is a junior at UNC-CH. Rob Saunders and Melissa just completed a family trip to Jackson Hole. They sold their town home in Alexandria and have moved out to horse country in Orlean, Va. Rob and Melissa see Rob Banner and Julie often who also live in the area. Wells Goddin and wife Laurie have moved to White Stone, Va., on the Northern Neck. Mason Hawfield reports that Will Pierce is still practicing law in Memphis and playing lots of golf. Eddie Newsome is still practicing law in Atlanta, Ga. Bobby Estill has still not returned to Wilmington from Hawaii where he surfs every day.
’76
Boota deButts (C) 703-774-5717
whd@episcopalhighschool.org
Joint 50th Reunion with 1975: June 2026
’77 Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
Joint 50th Reunion with 1978: June 2028
’78 James Clardy (C) 704-609-5570
jim.clardy@wellsfargo.com
Joint 45th Reunion with 1979: June 2024
Class Correspondent James Clardy was thrilled to drop off his daughter Julia ’25 at EHS this fall as a new sophomore. Here is his advice to her as she embarks on her EHS adventure:
Julia,
Congratulations on Episcopal. You will come away from your time on the Hill with memories, experiences and friendships that will last a lifetime. I know you are excited to take advantage of this incredible opportunity so here are a few things I wish I had known before showing up at EHS.
Boarding school is a shock. Living with a roommate, eating communal meals, and the crush of being surrounded by fellow teenagers 24/7 will be unlike anything you have ever experienced. Episcopal will keep you so busy in the classroom and on the athletic field that there will be little time for reflection but you may have second thoughts or feel homesick at first. Don’t be shy about sharing those sentiments and remember that many of your classmates are probably feeling the same way. Just think of it as a growing pain and a natural part of your journey to adulthood.
You will quickly realize that while you are surrounded by loving family and friends, there is only one person who is going to decide your fate in this world. That may be the most important thing you will learn at Episcopal. You will do more growing up in the next three years than a decade at day school. So try to look sympathetic when your freshman college roommate wonders if she’s ready to spread her wings.
My first few weeks I couldn’t imagine what I had gotten myself into; within a few months I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else. I know you and your classmates will feel the same way.
You are making lifelong friends. Your wedding maid of honor, godmother to your child, and future best friend may live down the hallway. You will significantly expand your circle of friends from Charlotte and will leave the Hill with wonderful relationships. Remember that you are judged by the company you keep; seek out those who share your values, who are excited about the opportunity they have
65 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
John Townsend ’73, Matt Long ’84, and Woody Coley ’73 “allow” Dean Norman (WFS ’74) to touch the Alumni Cup trophy won by Episcopal.
Jim Clardy ’78 and his daughter Julia when she was a young child. Julia started her freshman year at EHS this year.
been given and have a positive attitude. Make sure your friends treat their fellow students and teachers with the respect they deserve and who share your manners including ‘yes ma’am,’ ‘no ma’am,’ and a firm handshake.
Only your classmates can understand the crucible of boarding school and this special bond will only deepen the older you get. Some of your classmates will be a constant presence in your life while others you may only see at Reunions. But decades after graduation, boarding school chums share something that is unique and can never be duplicated.
Your godfather Harry Archer was my EHS classmate and I know you will make the same lifetime connections.
The rules are your friend. There’s an old saying that you cannot break God’s laws, you can only break yourself against them. While it’s doubtful that the EHS student handbook was divinely inspired, surround yourself with friends who believe that the rules are for your benefit — and understand the dire consequences of not following them.
The code of conduct is a guard rail to keep you safe, productive and happy. Boarding school is already enough of a pressure cooker without the additional stress of trying not to get caught so spend your time and energy doing things that make you feel happy and successful.
If presented with temptation you can always defer by claiming that you answer to a higher authority: Your parents who have promised that there will be much wailing and gnashing of teeth if disappointed. My friends who got kicked out of boarding school have spent the rest of their lives regretting that one bad decision.
Build relationships with your teachers. Never again will you have the accessibility and proximity of your teachers as you will at Episcopal. I spent many evenings my first year in the Hummel Dorm faculty apartment of Mr. McCarthey going over that day’s geometry lesson and would have never passed without his help. Don’t be shy about seeking out your teachers after class or after hours. They are your biggest boosters and have a personal stake in seeing you succeed. You have a natural competitive streak, and your teachers will help nurture your love of learning and academic achievement. You will make personal connections with the faculty that transcends the classroom and lasts long after graduation.
My dorm head for all three years, Bud Cox ’71, was a reader at my wedding and we still correspond several times a month. You will find your own Bud Cox.
Take advantage of the athletic program. I played three sports each year at Episcopal which was the norm at the time. Going to practice each afternoon was a great way to let off some steam and clear your head. EHS fields teams for all skill levels and you have no idea what you’re good at until you try. You will treasure the camaraderie that comes from playing team sports for the rest of your life. I keep a bumper sticker in my chest of drawers that reads “1978 — Episcopal 14 / Woodberry 9” — the football score of my senior year when we snapped a seven-game losing streak to our rival. We relive this game — and our amazing senior season — at every Reunion.
Try out new things. Throw yourself into extracurriculars. Build on your love of playing piano by trying out a new instrument. Take advantage of your proximity to the nation’s capital. Sign up for every concert, museum tour, field trip, and cultural event. Get involved in student government and look for leadership positions. Get into a routine of healthy habits such as using your time wisely and doing things that fill your bucket. Discover something new that you’re good at and build on it; success leads to more success and is a crucial stepping-stone to becoming an independent young adult.
Keep a diary. One of my biggest regrets is not keeping a journal at Episcopal. Life will never come at you faster than your first year so write it down, the good, the bad, the highs, and the lows. Years from now few things among your personal possessions will be more treasured than revisiting your teenage years. My hope is that someday you will pass
your well-earned wisdom on to your child as they matriculate at our shared alma mater. We are so proud of you, Julia, and know that the habits, discipline and character traits acquired from your Episcopal days will put you on a path to lifelong success. Treasure this special moment as you prepare for this next, exciting chapter in your life.
Much Love, Dad (Jim Clardy)
’79
Bill Hughes (C) 203-252-1153
william.hughes@pb.com
Joint 45th Reunion with 1978: June 2024
Holy Smokes. The grandbabies are starting to multiply. We know that Baily Patrick, Martin Cornelson, and Frank Holding have grandkids. But I just learned that Robert Griffith and Lee have two young grandsons, Samuel aged 3 1/2 and William, aged 1 1/2. When not fawning over their grandbabies, Robert and Lee spend their time between Cashiers, N.C. and Atlanta. Robert writes: “I recently ran into Chip Craighill at an
66 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Chase Hughes ’12, Rodney Rice ’79, and David Thalhimer.
David Ingle ’80, Edwin Rasberry ’79, Fran Johnson ’81, Martin Cornelson ’79, Benjy Park ’79, Mr. Ragsdale, Bo Mason ’79, Bailey Patrick ’79, Quintie Smith ’79, and Robert Mason ’77.
Dr. Cedric Bright ’81, Wayne Johnson ’80, Norman Coleman ’80, and Dr. Jürgen Taylor ’81 together on Norman’s 60th birthday.
According to Edwin, Benjy can cook “his butt off” and prepared a world-class meal. Edwin did not provide any photos of dead fish. Buist Rivers and his wife Sylvia are still living the good life in Folly Beach, S.C. Finally, if you have not made it back to The High School, please make every effort. You will not be disappointed. The School is putting on the final touches on two new dorms and a Wellness Center. These buildings are incredibly impressive and complement the architecture of the School.
’80
Staige Hoffman
(C) 813-597-5059
staigehoffman1@aol.com
Joint 45th Reunion with 1981: June 2026
MOST RESPONSES
’81Seward Totty
(C) 859-361-1568
seward.totty@gmail.com
Joint 45th Reunion with 1980: June 2026 We’re happy to acknowledge Seward with a blue ribbon for this record number of responses from his classmates. Congratulations, Seward!
Atlanta event hosted by Jenner Wood ’70 and Tom Long ’77. Also attending were Barrett Howell and his wife Clayton. As Barrett told me “There is finally a Howell graduating from EHS!”
Speaking of my former bunkmate, Chip Craighill, he is planning to join his wife, Virginia (who has retired from teaching English at Sewanee), to walk the Camino de Santiago in Spain through the month of September. The walk should take 25 to 35 days depending on the pace. Chip reminded me that this is not really a vacation but more of a penance, which is exactly how I see it.
According to Rick Hutchins, he leads a boring life hardly worth an update. Not true. Rick — or Hutch — is still in Charlotte, teaching American History at Charlotte Latin School and coaching baseball and football for the past 20 years. Each year he and his wife travel to the Bahamas to literally swim with the sharks. This year, his travels have taken him to Cape Cod and he has locked in trips to Turks and Caicos and Aruba this winter. No
sharks. Rick also writes that he and his wife go see live music three times a week — not the stuff he listened to back at The High School, such as The Four Tops, Archie Bell and the Drells, The Embers, and The Spinners, but contemporary music that his high school students prefer. If that is not enough, Rick still hangs out at his favorite dive bar, The Thirsty Beaver Saloon. You may recall this is the bar where Mick Jagger made an appearance the night before he played in Charlotte last year. Rick and his wife happened to be there that night but left a half hour before he showed. Come on. You are better than that, Rick.
Marsh (Pope) Pierce and Lynn recently celebrated their 35th anniversary with a tour of fancy New England spots, including –Block Island, Chatham, and Nantucket. Not sure if they ever made it back to Middleburg.
Edwin Rasberry sent a photo of an EHS crew at Beaufort Grocery Company, Benjy Park’s restaurant in Beaufort, N.C., following a day of fishing at the Big Rock Marlin Tournament in Morehead City, N.C.
I woke up the other morning to an email from Marissa Murdock reminding me that the Class Notes deadline was coming up, so I thought it might behoove me to solicit news from my classmates to prevent this entry in the fall magazine from again being embarrassingly paltry. We should be full of news. After all, many of us might be starting to think about post-career pursuits, reveling in the successful launch of our own children, the birth of a grandchild, or celebrating a personal or professional accomplishment. In Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the Ghost of Christmas Present tells Scrooge, “There is never enough time to do or say all the things that we would wish. The thing is to try to do as much as you can in the time that you have.” Hopefully all of us are just where we want to be. Let’s have a look at our collective body of work then, shall we?
Steve Ballenger is up in rural Connecticut in an old farmhouse that he and his wife Dawn relocated to in 2014. The house apparently produces enough mice that Steve could become a lab supplier were he so inclined. He says that they will end up in the south again one of these days. Not because of the mice, but because that’s where home is. Steve 67 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Scott Griffin ’81 (center) with Nora Raynor, their children, and their children’s spouses.
and Dawn sent their two sons to EHS for some learning and then out into the wider world. He is the sales and accounts manager for Zepsa Industries, a custom architectural woodwork firm based in Charlotte. Zepsa does high-end residential projects all over the country and as a consequence Steve travels quite a bit. In response to a query I made concerning the whereabouts of some of our “lost” classmates, Steve hinted that he might know where Allan Copp is. However, since Allan’s last words to us were “I shall (not) return” I think we will honor his request to be left alone.
Taylor Bowen resides in Charlottesville. The scholarly publishing business that he owns and runs with his wife Joanna is now in its 19th year and going strong. Taylor wrote that he was disappointed not to see more of us at our 40th Reunion last fall and expressed the oft-repeated sentiment that we all need to make more of an effort. I concur. His oldest daughter just graduated from college and is eyeing law school. His youngest daughter is a senior at Haverford College near Philadelphia. She plays on the soccer team (no surprise there) and leads the college’s orchestra as first-chair violin.
We may not be able to call Cedric Bright “Brick” anymore, as he was affectionately nicknamed after bricking (but somehow making) his lone field goal try in his senior year at EHS. Cedric recently accepted an appointment to the EHS Board of Trustees, where he will join our classmate Jürgen Taylor. Since Head of School Charley Stillwell is also a 1981 graduate (of WFS), I think we can assume that 1981 is running the joint now. As if that weren’t enough, Cedric is about to be appointed the vice dean for medical education and admissions at the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. Well done! As for family, Cedric reports that his children Maria and Andrew are doing well and that as a rising 10th grader Drew already is 6’2”. Sounds like Cedric has some hoop aspirations for his son.
Howard Brooks is a principal at Medalist Capital in Raleigh and works with Don Williams ’80 and Rob Wilson ’80. Two of his children are enrolled at the University of South Carolina and his eighth grader is at St. David’s School in Raleigh. I had the good fortune of running into Howard a few years ago down in the Bahamas and I can tell you that he still sings baritone. His voice is so deep it
is almost beyond the range of human hearing. He hopes that we all make a concerted effort to attend the next Reunion.
My email caught Latane Campbell on a rare day off. Latane is coming up on his 30th anniversary as a pilot (line captain) for American Airlines. He flies the 737800 and the MAX to Europe out of JFK but will start flying the 777 next year. The 777 is the world’s largest twin jet airliner in case you didn’t know. I looked it up. Latane has two boys. Landon is 13 and Colin is 11. Landon? Why not name him Woodberry or St. Stephens if you are going to trigger us like that? Name notwithstanding, Latane was unable to contain his fatherly pride in reporting to me that both boys are excellent athletes and near the top of the height and weight charts for their ages.
Latane does the occasional economic/ history radio interview and sometimes is interviewed for his insights after an aviation mishap. He is contemplating a documentary series on twelve critical moments in history and has garnered some financial backing for the project. But first, he needs to get us where we need to go. He reports that the pilot shortage is real and that absent a recession that kills demand, we haven’t seen the worst of it yet. Great.
He mentioned that he sees Charles Tinsley , Chris Hopper , Rawleigh Simmons ’80 and Hill Hopper ’82 regularly. He had a visit with Frank Montgomery not too long ago and referred to Frank as the “mayor” of Panama City Beach. I doubt Frank is the mayor but if the term is a nod to his friendly demeanor then they have him pegged right. I hear from Frank about once a
year, and it usually is about 15 seconds after Virginia Tech defeats Virginia in the annual tackle football contest.
I usually see Bill Carden on my frequent trips to Charlottesville. Bill and his wife Fran are still giddy over the May 1 arrival of their first grandchild. Her name is Caroline and Bill says that “there is nothing like a grandchild to energize a family.” He and his wife Fran are huge UVA fans and will be empty nesters for the first time this fall.
Scott Cornelson also is a grandfather. His granddaughter was born last December and Scott reports that she brings him immense joy and happiness. He has enjoyed watching his oldest son become a proud and responsible father. Scott’s three sons all live within easy driving distance, so visits aren’t a problem. Scott continues to broker land deals as the principal at Carolina Land Company. He sells farms, recreational tracts, and rural properties in the upstate region of South Carolina. He also has the best outdoor fireplace you can imagine at The Farm at Possum Kingdom, his spread just outside of Greenville.
Wray Farlow says hello from Charlotte. Old Elbert just recently launched his own business after more than thirty years of leading sales and marketing for several national homebuilders. Farlow Home Finders is his new venture and helps homeowners and investors buy and sell their properties “in all the neighborhoods I’ve helped create over the years.” He and wife Rebecca have two children. Wray IV is a towering 6’4” at age 19 and no longer is allowed to stand next to his father in photographs. Sarah-Bennett is 16 and is the apple of her dad’s eye. Seeing as how he has yet to pay his first dollar of college
68 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Seward Totty ’81 with a wary cutthroat on Flat Creek in Jackson, Wyo.
John Trask ’81 at the Cody Stampede in Cody, Wyo.
tuition, Wray has no plans to retire any time soon and he stands ready to help any of us who have an interest in Charlotte-area real estate. He’d love to catch up with any Old Boys coming through town.
Brad Fox has a wonderful economy with words. “I have been clean and sober for three years. Finally got my s**t together after forty years of drinking and smoking.” That was the totality of his report. Well done, Brad. Getting one’s s**t together is no easy feat.
Scott Griffin made the Reunion last fall. Here’s what he has to report, “Nora Raynor married me October 3, 2020 during the height of Covid. Between us we have four children, two sons-in-law, and four granddogs. But most importantly, my first granddaughter, Anita Hampton Postal, was born April 30, 2022. I am still with Bank of America in Specialty Lending supporting Merrill and the Private Bank.” Sounds like the beach music soundtrack to his life still is playing. Well done, Scott!
Had a reflective email from the low country’s Rivers Jenkins , who still calls Charleston home. He practices law. His children are grown and his oldest, his son Riv, is getting married in October. His daughter Cason is 25 and just was promoted at her job. Rivers lamented that, due to his own lack of effort and a disdain for social media (which he now calls a mistake), he’s lost touch with his Charleston classmates and that it is only at parental funerals that he sees them. The passing of our parents brings us to the head of the line, and this surely is one time when being first in line is not the place to be. But here we are.
Let me go on a quick sidebar here while I am thinking about our parents. Do you ever wonder what they were thinking as they raised us? Was their laissez-faire approach to parenting purposeful? They had no idea where and what we were doing, or where we were most of the time. While they were knocking back cocktails, inhaling cigs, and playing canasta, we were riding our bikes behind the mosquito man filling our lungs with insecticides. Oh, you didn’t do that? Well, I did. We had dirt clod and rock fights. With actual rocks. We shot guns and played with knives. We rode our bikes — without helmets, mind you — in traffic all over town. We reveled in the freedom that our parents’ seeming indifference afforded us. Funny thing though. What today would classify as parental neglect, worked. It actually worked. We learned to think for ourselves, solve our own problems, and deal with our own mistakes. It was only as adults that we realized how dangerously we lived as children, and I guess that’s when we became helicopter parents. Our parents knew what they were doing after all. Salute! Truly the greatest generation.
Okay, back to Rivers. He’s only managed to make one Reunion, but he hopes to change that. He did have a visit with Moultrie Dotterer ’82 when he passed through Richmond a few months back. Rivers sends his best regards to you all and encourages you to reach out any time you are in Charleston. His email is rtj@tecklaw.net.
Fran Johnson is in Charleston running the family insurance business. He has one boy who is 33 and three girls who are 31, 29, and 24. A quick check of the math indicates that he was married and having kids at the
same time as I was making a solid $14,000 working at the National Geographic Society and having the Sunday Night Freakouts every weekend as I wondered what I was going to do with my life. He’s also a grandad twice over. When not consulting actuarial tables or computing the net present value of future premium payments, Fran loves to hunt and fish. And when I say fishing I am not talking about sitting in a jon boat and catching bass at the local pay lake, although he may do that occasionally. Fran is a marlin fisherman and he and his boat “Sea Fix ‘’ are regulars on the competitive bill fishing circuit, making port calls all over the Americas in his quest to land the pelagic giants.
The Charleston gang remains tight, and Fran spends a lot of time with David Ingle ’80, Pierre Manigault ’80, and our own Gilly Dotterer. He also has run into Bo Mason ’79, Charles Winston ’78, and Frank Holding ’79 recently.
Lew Kornberg wasn’t particularly loquacious in his email to me, but I appreciated his words of encouragement for this task I presently am executing. I can tell from his email signature that he continues to live and work in Chicago. He is an executive vice president for Jones Lang Lasalle, one of the big names in the world of commercial real estate. Hopefully, he will give me a little more to work with next time.
Steve Machiorlete reported from Houston where he lives with his wife Lori, whom I remember as a talented member of UVA’s tennis team. He is the owner and president of WorthHP, a company that “creates high-quality inexpensive patented products that transform decors.” The company’s “Do-It-Yourself home décor solutions install quickly and save money by avoiding professional installation fees.” A few years ago he also launched a custom decorative lighting business called Illume that targets the hospitality, multi-family, and private luxury real estate markets. Steve tells me that his children all are “healthy, grown and gainfully employed,” but because he fears retribution from any contractors, electricians, or plumbers amongst us who would not want you to save on professional installation fees, he did not supply me with any information regarding said progeny.
Ronald Mack is a pediatric doctor at the McDonald Army Health Center at Fort Eustis in Newport News. He was back on The
69 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Charley Matheson ’81 and Ronald Mack ’81 catching up after 40 years.
Charley Matheson ’81, Seward Totty ’81, and Ransom Lummis ’80 celebrating with their daughters at UVA.
Holy Hill recently for what he says is the first time in 40 years. He says that Jürgen Taylor still looks like he is 18 and Taylor Bowen can still wear his letterman’s jacket.
When I last saw Charley Matheson he was sporting side whiskers the likes of which have not been seen since Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside was commanding Union troops in the Civil War. It was quite impressive really. Burnside’s facial hair was the genesis for the term “sideburns.” Now you know. At one point a few years ago Charley, Ransom Lummis ’80, and I all had daughters in the same sorority at Virginia and so we would have an annual visit at the spring parents’ formal. Charley is a gentleman farmer and he and his wife Andrea live in Charlottesville and run the affairs at Adventure Farm, a wide-ranging operation that raises beef cattle and also produces wine. Chisholm is their estate vineyard that produces more than ten varieties of award-winning wine. It’s on the Piedmont Wine Trail and welcomes visitors. (Check out http://chisholmvineyards.com.)
Between them Charley and Andrea have six children, three of whom are EHS graduates. Kathryn Matheson ’14, Eve Matheson ’16, and Isabelle Davidson ’18 have continued the Matheson family’s longstanding ties to The Holy Hill. Finally, Charley has, for eighteen years now, written his blog “Keeper of the Clown Bell,” in which he skewers those whom he considers the clowns in our midst.
Alex McKinnon moved back to Charlotte in 2018 after having lived in four different countries. The company he founded, Kinn, “creates stronger bonds between people and pets through revolutionary products designed to improve the quality of life for people, pets, and the planet.” He admits to having married up “big time.” Alex must be in the right place because in 2021, U.S. pet owners spent $123.6 billion dollars on pet care.
Thomas Mills reported in. No doubt dismayed by the reprehensible state of American political discourse, Thomas writes that he is trying to “practice less politics and write about them more.” Thomas is the editor-in-chief of politicsnc.com, and he reports on and offers sensible takes on the issues that are important to North Carolina voters. His goal “is to provide a reasoned voice in the political debate at a time when throwing rocks and calling names is far more popular.” Like Fran, Thomas is a grandfather. His eldest daughter is married and lives in Sweden with her two
children. That’s a long way to go for grandfathering and such, but there are far worse places to visit than the land of the midnight sun. His other two children, his 17-year-old daughter, and 14-year-old-son, are both students at Chapel Hill High School.
John Penovich lives in the DC area and is the chief technology officer at Radio Free Asia. John is also a musician, a talent he honed in the basement of Stewart Gym. He referred to the old amps that they found down there as “the tools of rebellion.” His band, the Cravin’ Dogs, plays all over the DC metro area.
Walter Rand was the first to respond to my email and he was full of news. He’s an attorney in Edenton, N.C. defending reprobates, scoundrels, and miscreants (and the innocent, of course) from the long arm of the law. He’s back at work after having been attacked by toxic mold that left him unable to work for three years. He reports that he has tried marriage several times and has concluded that matrimony and he are… meh. However, marriage has given him a wonderful twelve-year-old daughter and for that he is very grateful. Walter apparently is living out his senior quote: “Everything always turns out alright in the end.”
Walter helped me with some contact info for a few of our classmates and he was among a few who reported to me that Charles Russell lives in Sydney, Australia. His Facebook profile states that he works for Microsoft. Charlie Russell working for the man? I don’t believe it. Did you know that Charlie’s sister is married to Will “Burrhead” Jones? Will is a doctor who lives in Wilmington, N.C., but that’s all I have on him because he is lost to the School’s alumni office. I wonder if his patients call him Dr. Burrhead?
Bruce Rinehart chimed in from Oakland, where he reports that he is not retired. He encourages any visitors to the Bay area to pick up a copy of “A People’s Guide to the San Francisco Bay Area,” which includes eightyfive of his photographs, including two on the cover. Actually, he encourages you to buy it anyway even if you hate the Bay area and have no intention of ever visiting. He recently was elected to the board of a small water company that is located at almost 10,000 feet above sea level in the eastern Sierras and has some of the purest water in California. A water source in California, eh? Timing is everything and his timing on this looks pretty great at the moment. He also has practiced tai chi for the past twenty years. Also called “shadowboxing,” tai chi is a Chinese martial art that he proclaims is “by far the laziest way to get more energy and be healthy.” Lastly, because he never has been one to shy away from the important questions of our time, he would like it entered into the record that he “is trying to understand why Trump did not receive an honorary expulsion from EHS for a gross violation of the honor code.”
Paul Sheehy also is in Richmond and for over thirty years now he has worked for GrayCo, Inc., buying, managing, building, and selling portfolios of apartment properties from Richmond to Texas to Florida. Paul and his wife Julie have three grown children and Julie continues to assert that Paul is demented as the result of his EHS experience. One of their children is a teacher in Asheville. Another lives in Austin and works for Ray Benson and his Texas swing band Asleep at the Wheel and also as a production assistant for the long-running television show Austin City Limits. How about that for a gig? Their third
70 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Fran Johnson ’81, third from left, with crew and guests aboard his marlin machine, the Sea Fix.
child is a real estate appraiser in Salt Lake City. Seems like Paul and Julie have their pick of cool cities when they get the itch to visit their children. He sees a lot of his EHS buddies and fraternity brothers Duncan MacLeod ’80, John Walker ’79, and Carter Leake ’80 in Richmond. Fearful that his chassis is nearing the end of its useful life and eager to get this in before he needs replacement parts, Paul has an ambitious golf schedule in 2023 that will include trips to Ireland and New Zealand. In his note to me Paul provided some color on Mr. Burwell’s spring 1980 “lights check” rampage that I referenced in my group email to the class. As Paul relates, Mr. Burwell was doing a light check at 1:00 a.m. on the Wednesday of exam week. Seeing the light on in the room he shared with Peyton Park on 1st floor of Hummel, and hearing what appeared to be an epic throwdown in progress, Mr. Burwell climbed onto the windowsill just in time to hear one of the persons in the room (who shall remain nameless) make an unfortunately timely remark about him. Enraged, he launched himself into the room
in Cosmo Kramer-like fashion, scattering beer cans and setting off a stampede for the door. In the confusion that ensued, Mr. Burwell was unable to remember exactly who was present, but as the room’s occupants Paul and Peyton had nowhere to go and so were easily apprehended. Several others made good their escape but for the unfortunate few who didn’t, the 100-demerit punishment made for a delayed start to summer vacation.
Charles Tinsley checked in from Richmond. He says that he gets together once a year at Cape Charles, Va., with his UVA fraternity brothers Latane Campbell, Carter Cornick ’80, and Laurent LeBien ’80 . Charles is a videographer whose work takes him all over. He enjoys getting back to Charlottesville in the fall for football games.
John Trask is our class’s globetrotter. If there’s an adventure to be had, John is in. “I can’t go ’til right now” is John’s motto. I’ve seen photos of him in just about every country you can think of. In the past year he’s been to Denmark, Finland, Colombia, and Krakow, Poland on a relief mission for Ukraine. In between he found time to make visits to Texas and Montana. He hangs his hat in Beaufort and is the co-owner of Low Country Real Estate, where he specializes in deep water and historic properties. John has
three children. Isabell, who is to be married in Beaufort in November, is 29 and lives in Denver. His son Peter is 22 and is in school in Charleston and in John’s words “living a great life fishing and hunting and working.” His youngest, Josephine, is a junior at TCU in Fort Worth and John says that he gets regular visits with Steve Berry ’80 when he hits town. John had a bit of a scare not too long ago, but they put two stents in his heart, and he is good as new. If John finds out that you were in Beaufort and didn’t call him, you will be in trouble. His cell is 843-812-2210.
Bob Watson reported in from Wilmington, Del. He says that if you didn’t go to the Reunion last fall, you need to try harder. He, Paul Sheehy, and Tom Evans teed it up with Phil Thomas in a little pre-reunion round at Washington Golf Club in Arlington last fall. Tom also lives in Wilmington and so they are frequent golf partners. Like their old man, both of Bob’s children are University of Richmond graduates and both now work for consulting firms in DC. When Bob isn’t striping it down the fairway and taking Tom’s money, he and his wife Christine relax by the ocean at their second home in Lewes, Del. Bob stays active with kiteboarding and SUP, and he and Christine recently completed a bike trip in Oregon just four months after having his knee replaced.
Brent Yessin wants us to know that he has NOT gotten married for a fifth time. He was engaged, however. His daughter Kelly Yessin ’18 graduated in 2022 from SMU and is now a management consultant in Dallas. Brent has started a pharmaceutical company to find and bring to this country for testing and approval promising plant-based medicines that have been in overseas trials. He also found time to visit Antarctica, and because it was “summer” there he jumped into the water in an effort to secure a piece of an iceberg to put in his bourbon. That probably ranks right up there with his decision to get married for a fourth time! The shrinkage was epic, I am sure.
Jim York married his high school sweetheart, Melissa, in 1986. Together they founded a management consultancy, Foxhedge, in 2007. They live in Leesburg and have two adult children.
Ellis Zaytoun also replied to my email with some words of encouragement. While I am grateful for his support, what I really needed from him was some news. This he did
71 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
John Penovich ’81, left, and his band, The Cravin’ Dogs. Still practicing rebellion!
Paul Sheehy ’81, John Walker ’79, and Duncan MacLeod ’80 at the TOUR Championship at East Lake in August 2022.
Brent Yessin ’81 and daughter Kelly ’18 on the day of her graduation from SMU.
not supply. He emailed from an AOL account, so I must surmise that Ellis failed to overcome the Y2K obstacle and is trapped in the 20th century. Ellis, here’s some advice for when you finally manage to make it to 2000. Buy Apple. Trust me on this. I hope Ellis is well and that he will supply me with some news after having this little bit of fun at his expense.
I was just with our old pal J. Smith in Charleston playing in the annual WFS-EHS alumni golf matches. Thanks to the combined genius of team captains Matt Long ’84 and Jim Sutton ’84, EHS won back the Cup with two days of inspired play. If you’ve never heard of this event and are a golfer who has a Woodberry itch that still needs scratching, this event is your last competitive outlet. Each year alumni from both School’s have at each other for two days in a Ryder Cup format. The trash talking is epic. The Woodberry guys call each other by their football numbers and wear matching outfits. They make the heckling almost too easy, but when the golf is over we all are friends again. The event has raised more than $650,000 for Episcopal’s Alumni Cup Scholarship Endowment (and I assume a similar figure for Woodberry) since its first playing in 1999. It’s a very worthy cause and a lot of fun. Contact the School if you have an interest in playing.
Back to J.J’s been in the car business since the day he graduated from UNC. He recently moved from Denver where he was running a car dealership to Roanoke where he is running a car dealership. There is no one you know who has moved more times than J. Smith. No one. It’s got to be at least twenty times. At least he and his wife Julie won’t have fifty years of accumulated clutter to go through when they decide to downsize in retirement. All this moving keeps them mean and lean. J had two sons play lacrosse at UNC and his daughter Lilly is there now. They are glad to be back on the east coast and closer to everything that is familiar to them.
As for me, I’m still in Lexington managing my independent financial advisory business. My wife Shannon and I celebrated our 31st wedding anniversary this year and we are enjoying the empty nest lifestyle. It is so quiet in our house now that I recently got the Wordle on the first try. We have three children, two of whom are graduated and living in Austin, Texas. Our son Jack graduated from UVA in 2017 and works there as a recruiter for a company called Lunch.
Daughter Caroline is a 2020 UVA graduate and is an account executive for Stack Overflow, a software company. Our youngest son Alex is in his fourth year at Auburn. He went there to become a veterinarian and will be leaving as a political scientist. He has developed an affinity for the deep south and says he wants to stay in Alabama after he graduates. While I still golf regularly I have developed a competing interest in fly fishing and my social media accounts are polluted with fish photos. Fortunately, golf and fishing can co-exist.
“Time and tide wait for no man,” wrote Geoffrey Chaucer about nine hundred years ago. Life marches on and time isn’t linear. The days and years seem to be passing with increasing speed. Thanks to everyone who took the time to update me on your news.
I hope to see all of you at our next Reunion, if not sooner.
’82
Arthur Smith
(C) 205-222-3054
wilchester@msn.com
Joint 45th Reunion with 1983: June 2028
Hello Class of ’82, I hope this finds everyone safe and healthy.
The Mega Reunion in June was a pronounced success. All that were not able to make it were deeply missed.
The weekend started off with a game of golf at the Army-Navy Country Club hosted by Attison Barnes. With a few exceptions, it was clear that the participants have spent too much time in the office (there was the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly — mostly the
72 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Back Row: Parker Johnson, John Kelly, Eddie Gamble, Mark Slack, James Ragsdale, Ed Lilly. Middle Row: David Coombs, Richard Taylor, Jeb Burns. Front Row: Arthur Smith, Caulley Deringer, Carl Failmezger, Hill Hopper, Attison Barnes.
Class of ’82 poses for a picture: Lee Ainslie, Parker Johnson, Arthur Smith, James Ragsdale, Mark Slack, Chip Nisbet, Attison Barnes, Caulley Deringer, Eddie Gamble, Ed Lilly, and Danny Miller.
Rob Hoxton ’82 serving as officiant for his son’s wedding.
latter two). But despite the gaps in ability and skill level, everyone had a great time and many thanks again to Attison. Hopefully we didn’t jeopardize Attison’s good standing at Army-Navy.
Congrats to Team Barnes, Nisbet, and Gamble. Attison’s scorching 39 on the front led them to a victorious -5 final score. Well done!
‘Fashionista’ Winston Holt (was not able to make it) was appalled with the group’s selection of shorts — I believe he commented they looked like bloomers. Next time we’ll play in speedos for Winston’s benefit.
Friday night dinner was on The Holy Hill, followed by stories and cocktails hosted by Caulley Deringer and his wife Alex at their beautiful home. At the very least, Alex deserves a special shout out and many thanks
for putting up with this group of incorrigibles. Caulley, you married way above yourself. Saturday night was drinks and dinner at EHS — and class photos.
Unfortunately, Winston Holt was not able to make it but shared these thoughts that Parker Johnson toasted on Saturday night (possibly Sunday morning), which I would like to share in concluding these notes.
“I find it remarkable that we stand here today celebrating four decades of friendships together — monuments, I call them. And it is these very monuments that have borne deep laughter and appreciation over the years as we have warmly recalled our shared days together in dorms, classrooms, and athletic fields.
“But while we are back on campus to toast these reminiscences, let us take a moment now to remember our classmates who departed
this world well before their time: Matt Scott, Peter Percival, Rob Ragsdale, Scot Pierce, and Byron Smith. Though they may be gone, their impact on our collective lives will not be forgotten.
“So, let us raise our glasses to both those monuments gathered around this room as well as to those who cannot be with us tonight. I continue to savor my journey with you, my brothers, and look forward to countless days of celebrations together in the years to come.” –Winston Holt
Cheers! –Arthur
Smith
’83 John Sloan (C) 910-616-6375
jsloan14@ec.rr.com
Frank Vasquez (C) 804-873-2212
rfvasquez1965@gmail.com
Joint 40th Reunion with 1984: June 2024
’84
Samuel Froelich (C) 336-402-3772
froelich@me.com
Joint 40th Reunion with 1983: June 2024
’85 Thorne Gregory Jr (C) 917-922-6250
thornegregoryjr@me.com
Joint 40th Reunion with 1986: June 2026
The EHS team led by Captains Matt Long ’84 and Jim Sutton ’84 defeated the WFS team in the Alumni Cup 28.5 to 31.5 to win back the Cup. Thorne Gregory Jr. celebrated in Charleston, S.C., with the EHS team.
’86 Art Taylor (C) 703-774-5079
art@arttaylorwriter.com
Joint 40th Reunion with 1985: June 2026
I personally enjoy the sound of crickets in the evening, late summer, early fall — a comforting sound, nostalgic in some way as well, since I associate it for many reasons with childhood back in North Carolina.
But hearing crickets when I send out a call for news… well, that’s a different matter. I think everyone shared their best news last issue and held off for this one!
…which makes this column, unfortunately, all about me.
73 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Scott Collie ’85, Mark Miller ’86, Ken Tyler ’83, Matt Long ’84, and Carter Wiley ’83 attending the memorial service for former EHS football coach Joe Robinson in Wilmington, N.C.
Ken Tyler ’83, Carter Jordan ’83, and Carter Wiley ’83 in Wilmington, N.C.
An anthology Art Taylor ’86 edited, Lawyers, Guns, and Money: Crime Fiction Inspired by the Music of Warren Zevon, was released mid-summer.
I’m writing this during the second week of classes back at George Mason University, and also my second week as a writing fellow for Mason’s Faculty Writing Community — a two-year appointment to the role, working with Mason’s Writing Across the Curriculum program to help encourage faculty across campus to devote time to their own writing and research in addition to their teaching responsibilities. Everything is in balance.
Also new since last issue, my story “We Are All Strangers Here” appeared in the September/October issue of Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine, and an anthology I edited, Lawyers, Guns, and Money: Crime Fiction Inspired by the Music of Warren Zevon, was released mid-summer.
That’s all the news I have — and hoping this will nudge others to submit when they can for next time!
’87
David Haddock
(C) 301-575-6750
davidhaddock@yahoo.com
Joint 40th Reunion with 1988: June 2028
Hey, I hope everyone is well. Thanks for responding to my recent email. We have some good stories and pictures to share. Let’s start with Dan Deutermann. Dan writes: “All is well on the Deutermann front! After getting back from the little guilt trip Haddock sent me on, my update is as follows: A little over a year ago I moved on from flying the fancy folks in their fancy helicopter to take a new position with a company based out of Texas as lead pilot for a project involving a customized Bell 412EPI helicopter (you can google that) that is tricked out with all kinds of new tech for a foreign navy. Ultimately it will get shipped there (there being a little country on the NW
tip of Africa where Humphrey
Bogart said some famous Hollywood lines in Rick’s Cafe… come visit and I will be sure to take you there), and I will go with it to play flight instructor and teach them how to play with the new machine for about a year — that’s the plan anyways. So aside from immersing myself in aircraft systems and syllabus development the past 12 months, I have been working on setting up the family to do without Dad for a long period which has proven quite the challenge. Fortunately I am married to an amazing wife who is up to the task of holding the parental line oneversus-three. Advise if any of you are coming
74 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Croom Lawrence ’89 and his daughter Eleanora.
Ruthie and Martha, daughters of Frierson Mitchener ’89, on the day they got accepted to UVA.
Class of ‘89 friends and classmates Justin Beck, Vincent Hodge, and Suresh Menon.
Ross Reynolds ’89 and wife Kathia at the UW quad during cherry blossom season.
Ross Reynolds ’89 and his dog on top of West Maroon Pass, Colo.
to town, the three-to-five year plan has us still in Alexandria, Va. We can meet in Old Town and watch Haddock do burpees with his new hip.”
Andy Reynolds writes, “Terrific to catch up with David Haddock, Charles Haigler, Patrick Johnson and Hampton Nager at Reunion #35 last summer. The news at our house is that our son, Drew, has started ninth grade at a day school in Fairfax, Va., about 20 minutes from EHS. It seems to suit him well — the kids have tons of freedom in choosing their classes and call teachers by their first names. (Yeah, it’s a little looser than late1980’s EHS.) To reduce the commute from our home in Maryland, we bought a condo near the school and stay there on school nights. So it’s sort of a boarding-school experience, for the whole family.”
Erek L. Barron ’92
In October 2021, Erek L. Barron ’92 was sworn in as the 49th U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland. Originally from Washington, D.C., Barron came to Episcopal as a new sophomore because his parents were determined to get him the best education possible. The first in his family to graduate from college, Barron went on to get his B.A. in English from the University of Maryland, College Park, his law degree from George Washington University Law School, and his advanced law degree in International and National Security Law from Georgetown University Law Center.
At Episcopal, Barron had no idea what lay ahead for him. He loved his liberal arts education, and he originally saw law school as an extension of that path — despite not knowing where it would lead. While he told us he was not always the strongest student in the class, eventually his discipline and work ethic made him stand out in his own, quiet way. Barron was directly impacted in his childhood by a lawyer who helped his family when they were in a tough spot. “I never saw any of this coming, but at some point, it just clicked that I’m going to help other people like that lawyer helped us,” he remembered.
In Barron’s career, he has served as a state and federal prosecutor and as counsel and policy advisor to the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Crime and Drugs. He also has been a member of the Maryland House of Delegates. Now, he volunteers with a variety of disadvantaged youth-related programs, trying to give back wherever and whenever he can.
A natural introvert, Barron had to adjust to life in the courtroom and in the political spotlight. Since his days at a monitor at Episcopal, he has always tried to lead by example. “I’ve always been somebody who gets along with different groups of people and is able to navigate through different cliques,” he said of his strengths both in his professional and personal life. He credited Episcopal with helping open his eyes to different people and experiences. “Episcopal is where I started to see more of the world. I’m from D.C., but I saw and experienced things at Episcopal that I would not otherwise have been exposed to.”
At the end of the day, Barron’s career revolves around service: “I truly believe I’m here to serve.” Currently, the alumnus volunteers with Episcopal’s Black Alumni Network (BAN), a coalition established in 2020 that strives to cultivate culture, community, and commitment among Black alumni. Barron recalled his struggles at Episcopal while a student of color in the early ’90s and how those memories motivate him to be an active participant with students and fellow alumni of color. “I want to be a resource for younger people,” he said of his involvement with BAN.
Despite his many career successes, Barron is a father first and foremost, evidenced by his Twitter bio, which simply reads “Bryce’s dad.” Barron and his family hope to teach Bryce that there are people everywhere who are not as blessed as they are — and “to tap into the giving part of her” as she grows. Barron also spoke of his own parents’ sacrifices that helped get him to where he is today. “I’m the direct beneficiary of their generation,” he stated. “Their blue-collar workmanship and professionalism enabled me to extend my education beyond what had been.”
75 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Harwood Blocker ’90.
Nao Sakata ’90 with his wife Aki and daughter Mika.
After Episcopal
’88
Ned Durden (C) 704-576-5039 neddurden@gmail.com
Joint 35th Reunion with 1989: June 2024
After a brief one-issue hiatus, I am happy to be back with some updates for the class of ’88. First though, I need to issue my first (and definitely not last) correction as Class Correspondent. In my previous update, I reported that Joe Alala was the father of two great teenage boys, August and Basil. That is definitely accurate, but what I neglected to mention is that Joe and his wife Christine have a son, Powers, who is 2 years old! Joe reports that having another son at home is awesome for many reasons, including the fact he now has another spotter on bench press for his early morning workouts.
I was very excited to get a text from Lance Hansen a few months ago, who sent the following update, “Hi Ned! Blast from the past. Lance Hansen here. Hope you’re well! I just received the new EHS mag and thought I’d say hi. Entering my 28th year as a high school teacher and football coach in S.C. Family is well. Son, Walker, 16 and daughter, Madison, 12. My wife is Sarah. We live in Spartanburg, S.C.” I did a quick Google search on Lance after hearing from him and learned that a few years ago he was inducted into the Citadel Athletics Hall of Fame. Pretty cool. I wonder if he credited Pratt Lewis ’89, Ames Morison, and my work on the scout team D-line in his acceptance speech as one of the keys to his athletic success.
I recently caught up with Douglas Owens in Charlottesville, Va., for college drop off. Douglas and his wife, Jenny, live in Lexington, Ky., where they own and operate Brookview Farm, the largest cattle farm in the area. They have two wonderful sons, Walker and J, who both attended boarding school in Orange, Va. Walker is a junior at Auburn, and J is a first year (not freshman) at UVA. Kitten is doing well and doesn’t look a day over 51.
Lastly, I ran into Benji Tarbutton ’87 at EHS graduation this past spring. His nephew, Bradley Tarbutton ’22, was in the graduating class with our daughter, Annie Durden ’22 Benji looked fantastic and reported that he left the hustle and bustle of big city life a few years ago to return to the bucolic splendor of Sandersville, Ga. He said it reminds him of simpler days, like when he lived with Grasty on first Hummel.
That’s it for now. Speaking of people over 50, we have our 35th reunion coming up. Let’s see if we can get a strong turnout and impress the faculty and administration with our awesomeness… again.
’89
Croom Lawrence
(C) 540-878-6754
croomlawrence@gmail.com
Joint 35th Reunion with 1988: June 2024
Scott Fortney and his wife, Janet, celebrated 26 years of marriage this past June. Scott and Janet’s youngest daughter, Juliette, is a senior at Yorktown HS in Arlington. Their son, Maxwell, is a founding partner of a tech firm in Miami, and their oldest daughter, Madeleine, is in her third year of (post-grad) rabbinical college in NYC. Scott and Janet vacation regularly to Southport, N.C. if any alumni want to connect!
Frierson Mitchener says, “I just dropped off two daughters (Ruthie and Martha) in Charlottesville to start their first years at UVA. We have two more daughters at home. Ann Currin is 15 and Mary is 10.”
Ross Reynolds recently moved to Seattle and has started a new company providing anti-piracy services for media companies. He is living there with wife Kathia, son Miles, and their dog Jack.
’90
Jason Acosta
(C) 301-933-4690
JAcosta_JAh311@hotmail.com
Joint 35th Reunion with 1991: June 2026 Greetings, Class of ’90! I have volunteered to be the new Class Correspondent. The collector of notes. The distributor of memories. Harwood Blocker writes that he has been working in IT for the Supreme Court for 15 years this October. His twins, a boy and a girl, are starting high school this fall at Woodson H.S. in Fairfax, Va. He also got divorced this summer after a 16-year marriage. His spirits are high, though, and he wants folks to know that the “meat’s back on the menu.” Ladies of the younger classes should take note.
David Maybank is well and living in Charleston, S.C. He writes that his daughter, Parsons, turned three in May. He said that Toby Chambers put it best about kids at that age, “the days are long but the years fly by.” Nao Sakata says “konnichiwa” from Kobe, Japan. He got married in 2006 and has a son
named Kento and a daughter named Mika. He has become an entrepreneur and inventor, creating two products, Flexcushion , a stretching and exercise tool, and KabukiGlasses®, wearable autofocus binoculars. He writes that the glasses are even available at the Met Opera Shop in New York. He served as head coach of Rikkyo St. Paul’s University Sumo Team in Tokyo between 2017 and 2021. He writes that his hobbies are unchanged (baseball, sumo, and the theater) and cherishes how his year at EHS really opened up his life!
As for myself, I live in Jacksonville, Fla. I’m married and have a daughter, River, who is 7. I work as a programmer for JEA, the municipal utility, where I have been for 15 years. I am still an avid D&D enthusiast. Computers, D&D, surrounded by beautiful women, not much has changed since high school for me.
I look forward to hearing from others, so please reach out. If you did not get my blast email, then you weren’t on the list the School gave me. Have a great winter!
’91 William Coxe (C) 864-313-9803
williecoxe@gmail.com
Joint 35th Reunion with 1990: June 2026
’92 Fred Alexander (C) 704-641-4858
fcaiii@yahoo.com
Joint 35th Reunion with 1993: June 2028
Hello, Classmates! It was great seeing Cal Evans and his lovely wife, Ivey, at our 30th Reunion in June. Our class picture is shown.
76 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Class of ’92 and their lovely wives at Mega Reunion.
I’m not going to beat around the bush much, but I expected to see more of your ugly mugs. We had a great time at the 25th Reunion and hoped many would figure out a way to get there. I know many of you cited kids’ sports, kids’ tournaments, other kids/ family commitments, a partridge in a pear tree, and a small Covid issue.
Hey, I get it. We all have stuff going on and it all is important. I brought my three kids as part of a larger cultural adventure and Cal did leave the lone child he claims at home. We are in the same boat.
We only meet every five years and, in the end, organizing a car pool or getting your better half to take the sword is a small sacrifice to make to see everyone. Enough browbeating. We had a great time catching up with the Evans’ and we missed seeing all of you. The tall tales only get better with age. Remember we were the last class of all balls.
From a family angle, we took the kids to the Mall, National Art Gallery, Spy Museum and then saw two incredible exhibits at the Hirshhorn courtesy of the Evans’.
While on the Mall, there was a gun rights protest (I left mine at home) and a Pride concert. A little diversity sprinkling that can only be found on the National Mall in DC was good for all. A little Forrest Gumpish if you will.
Please email me and let me know what you are up to? Send me pictures of kids and family. Otherwise, I’ll be left to my own devices. An old suite mate of mine got run over by the rumor train this past week on a loose text thread. Don’t let that happen to you. Best, Fred.
Elizabeth Hoster Murphy ’97
Even after a highly successful career at a venture capital fund, Elizabeth Hoster Murphy ’97 doesn’t necessarily consider herself a “finance person.” Instead, she describes herself as an “impact person,” someone who directly benefits her local community through her work.
Murphy is the vice president of community at Marin Sonoma Impact Ventures (MSIV), the North Bay’s first regional venture capital fund. In her role, she makes connections for startup founders with investors and community partners to create a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in the area. She now works directly with 130 startup companies. “The more startups are able to thrive in this region, the more jobs we actually create,” Murphy said. “We’re in a region of great wealth, but also huge economic disparity.”
Murphy accepted the MSIV position a year after being laid off from Glassdoor due to the Covid-19 pandemic. She called this defining moment “humbling” and attributes it with opening her eyes to a different industry, which dramatically altered the trajectory of her career.
“I had to pick up and start over,” Murphy said. “And in doing so, I was able to prove to myself that I am strong, and I am capable.”
Originally a Mississippi native, Murphy chose EHS because it felt like home the moment she stepped foot on campus. She described her entire EHS career as “formative” and believes that the Honor Code and daily Chapel became ingrained in her core and resonated in all her life choices long after she graduated. Murphy hopes current Episcopal students understand the gift of diversity, as she was surrounded by friends from all over the world while on campus. “Never in my entire career have I regretted spending time with people that think differently, act differently, or look differently,” Murphy said. “I think there’s a great opportunity to do that in so many ways, whether with teammates, who you’re assigned to sit next to at dinner, or chapel. Just expand your friend network.”
Murphy credits The High School with preparing her for a high-level leadership role at MSIV. As a monitor, she was reminded to exhibit empathy, compassion, and respect. “I was able to try out leadership roles at EHS,” she remembered. “My confidence grew, and I began understanding the qualities I wanted to embody to be a good leader.” Through her impressive 20-year career, she’s held marketing positions at ESPN, The Wall Street Journal, One Medical, and Glassdoor.
As the mother of a pre-kindergartener and a first grader, she hopes to inspire her daughters to fall in love with projects and work they’re passionate about. “They have to find something that they love doing,” she told us. “Ultimately, you’re only going to thrive if you’re doing something that you believe in and something that you enjoy.” Also a staunch advocate for female empowerment, Murphy is in the process of creating the North Bay Women’s Network to match women searching for jobs with startup companies in the area, further impacting her community for the better.
77 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Fred Alexander ’92 and his family exploring Williamsburg, Va.
After Episcopal
’93
Walker Lamond (C) 301-580-0761
walkerlamond@mac.com
Joint 30th Reunion with 1994: June 2024
In the spring of 1991, while old Hummel Dorm was being systematically dismantled by its student residents, I attended a very charming dinner in Chevy Chase with Elizabeth Jacobs Tuff, who had not yet matriculated to EHS as part of the notorious First 48. Her brother Chris Jacobs approved the union, arranged over a payphone from the Hummel stairwell while Parke Chapman ’91 and Gray Wilson ’92 sledgehammered a hole through their bedroom wall. Chris was still earning his way back into his parents’ good graces after being the first Episcopal student to ever be suspended before ever attending a class, so he probably assumed that setting up his sister on a platonic date with a High Lister was a smart move. Liz of course was way out of my league, but we did become lifelong friends, and last week we enjoyed a riotous reunion dinner in Georgetown where we talked about each and every one of you. Here’s to old friends!
’94
Emily Breinig (C) 480-330-8017 fletchee@hotmail.com
Joint 30th Reunion with 1993: June 2024
’95 Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
Joint 30th Reunion with 1996: June 2026
’96 Temple Basham (C) 804-332-1517
templefbasham@gmail.com
Luke Zehner (C) 571-338-1389 zehnerlj@gmail.com
Joint 30th Reunion with 1995: June 2026
’97
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact
Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@ episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
Joint 30th Reunion with 1998: June 2028
’98 Katherine Stuart (C) 434-989-7054 katstu@gmail.com
Andrew Nielson (C) 706-254-2277
Joint 25th Reunion with 1998: June 2024
’99
Becky Everhart (C) 917-628-5945 beckykellam@gmail.com
Joint 25th Reunion with 1999: June 2024 Davis White reports, “We are still living in Northern California and were thankfully able to take a trip through the South this summer. I really enjoyed playing golf and catching up with Frank Brawley ’98 in Highlands, N.C. and meeting his awesome sons. We visited
78 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Class of ’93 friends Walker Lamond and Elizabeth Jacobs Tuff.
Lauren Sims Polack ’01 and Lindsay Soyars Ward ’01 enjoyed a weekend in Warrenton together!
Tara Carter ’23, Emma Carter ’23, Allison Priebe ’94 P’21, McClain Brooks ’21, and Ellen Bland P’21.
Allison Priebe ’94 P’21, McClain Brooks ’21, Ellen Bland P’21, Olivia Shackleford ’21, JulieAnna Potts P’21 ’25.
Charlie Kingsley ’01 and his fiancée, Kathryn Kumar. They live and work in Richmond, Va.
Philip Glaize ’04 and David Glaize ’07
Lexington, Ky., and enjoyed visiting with Will Coffman (husband of Katie Kaufman, who was greatly missed!). We tried to get up with Will Chapman but apparently he now spends every July in Southern France studying cooking and literature.”
It’s the same ol’ here in Virginia Beach. Judellia Cole visited me when she was in town from Atlanta this summer. Definitely no pics to share from that night of good times. Wishing everyone well, Becky. ’00
Since 1937, the Glaize family has grown apples in the Shenandoah Valley. Hailing from Winchester, Va., Philip ’04 and David ’07 Glaize now represent the fourth generation of apple farmers, and they’re bringing a new twist to an old family business: turning their apples into cider.
Schuyler Williams
(C) 703-304-9423
schuyler13@gmail.com
Maisie Short
(C) 310-498-5241
maisieshort12@gmail.com
“Glaize Apples was started by our great-grandfather and his two sons: our grandfather and great uncle, who ran the company. When our great uncle passed away, our dad [Phil Glaize ’74] knew he had to step up if they were going to keep growing apples,” Philip said. “And now it’s our turn. The heritage and pride for what our family does makes us proud.”
Apple farming isn’t the only Glaize legacy David and Philip have continued, attending The High School (along with their sister Lucy ’08) is as well. “I was more intrigued by Episcopal because Philip was there and our dad went there,” said David. “So, for me, it was about following in Philip’s footsteps, but also about our parents recognizing that it was the best source of education for us.”
Beezie Sayers
Joint 25th Reunion with 2001: June 2026 ’01
(C) 713-560-6210
beezie.sayers@gmail.com
Joint 25th Reunion with 2000: June 2026 ’02
Although taking over the family company was always the plan for Philip and David, their father enacted a policy that the brothers had to spend five years working outside of the orchard. Philip worked in the produce industry in New York City, and David was a middle school math teacher in Alexandria at the same school where he completed his senior externship while at The High School.
Andrew Farrar
(C) 919-616-6636
asfarrar@gmail.com
Artie Armstrong
(C) 805-341-5233
artiearmstrong@yahoo.com
Joint 25th Reunion with 2003: June 2028
Blair Harbour Moreau and husband Geoff welcomed their second son Henri on January 26th. Proud brother Guillaume can’t wait until Henri is big enough to run around NYC with him.
Hunt Kushner says, “I hope everyone is doing well — I was disappointed to miss the Reunion, but did so for the best reason — my wife Katie gave birth to our son, Christopher James Kushner, in late April. He is already laughing, rolling, and throwing his toys around. He has also given me totally
“No matter where Philip and I landed for those five years, the experience we brought back was the ability to put on a different hat,” David said. “In our dad’s eyes, there’s value in just having a different experience and outlook.”
As the next generation taking over the company, the brothers hope to usher in a new era with the addition of Old Town Cidery. Two years ago, they launched their hard cider business and are now minting, processing, and canning hard cider from their own Glaize Apples. “There are always new ventures for us, and our goal is to stay vertically integrated,” Philip said. “We’re still growing apples, but we’re doing it differently.”
As members of a 35-person team, the Glaize brothers understand the importance of establishing a culture of teamwork and an environment of inclusivity. “We’re blessed with an almost 100% Latinx crew and we treat each other like family,” said David. “We joke around like family, but we also work hard together like family, and it’s incredibly rewarding.”
Blazing a new path requires courage, fearlessness, and work ethic, which are skills they say they learned at EHS. “If I had to describe it in one word, we were fortunate,” Philip said. “The opportunities were unreal, and it was important to take full advantage of Episcopal.”
While Glaize Apples can be found in grocery stores nationwide, the cider is currently self-distributed and will be available in northern Virginia by the end of the year. Follow Old Town Cidery on Instagram @oldtowncidery, or visit their website at oldtowncidery.com. Better yet, they say, stop by if you find yourself in Winchester, Va.
79 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Blair Harbour Moreau ’02 and family showing off their newest Old Boy, Henri.
After Episcopal
enhanced respect for those of you who are already parents. We live in Houston where one of these days it will be less than 100 degrees. I hope that we can make the 25th Reunion as a family, although even with EHS being a huge part of our heritage, I do not think Christopher’s mother will ever let him go to boarding school.”
’03
Alden Corrigan (C) 443-783-4659 alden.k.corrigan@gmail.com
Joint 20th Reunion with 2004: June 2024
I hope everyone has been doing well! When my daughter, Carson, started school this year, I was excited to see that the youngest daughter of Stewart Gilchrist Jones ’00 was in her grade. It was great to catch up with Stewart, and I am looking forward to our girls being in school together!
Congratulations to Gray Murray and Sally Mebane Murray who are overjoyed by the arrival of their third son, Samuel “Sam” Robert Murray, born 2/21/22. Sam was welcomed by two, proud older brothers, Gray IV (5) and Lock (3). Gray and Sally currently reside in Hickory, N.C.
Case Anderson and his family welcomed their second child, Tere Tippen Anderson (aka, “Sis”), named for her grandmothers, last October. Jack (3) has proven an excellent big brother with only minimal displays of sibling antagonism!
’04
Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
Joint 20th Reunion with 2003: June 2024
’05
Peebles Squire
(C) 434-594-4652
peebles.mobile@gmail.com
Joint 20th Reunion with 2006: June 2026
’06
Molly Wheaton
(C) 504-247-8674
mewheaton@gmail.com
Margaret von Werssowetz Waters (C) 843-607-5788 margaretvonw@gmail.com
Joint 20th Reunion with 2005: June 2026 “Hey everyone! It’s Molly Wheaton. I’m still living in Austin, Texas — moved here nine years ago thinking it would be more of a pit stop, but I can’t seem to leave!
I recently got back from a beach trip in August with Kingsley Trotter McNeil, Sarah Montz Harcus, Peyton Killeen Walling, and Caitlin Dirkes Simmonds. All of the kiddos tagged along and a good time was had by all. It will come as no surprise that Kingsley cried more on departure day than any of the babies or toddlers. Some things never change!
Another bright spot over the past few months was our EHS Mega Reunion in June. I hadn’t seen some of you in years, but everything clicked into place and it felt like we were all cutting up on campus just yesterday! Big thank you to everyone who coordinated an epic weekend on The Holy Hill… I was glad to hear that Nea Fowle made it back to Bermuda with all of her EHS swag — can we check with Vicki if any alumni outspent Nea at the bookstore?! She was torn up like a snake in a bush hog!
Speaking of Bermuda, Chris Williams and his boyfriend, Adam, spent a long weekend there in July along with Harrison Jobe. It looked like a grand ol’ time. Well, we can’t talk about Chris without talking about Jack
Pitney who recently moved to Mexico City and is thriving. Jack looked fabulous at the Reunion — I’d be lying if I didn’t admit I was jealous of his skinny legs and overall physique. Please circulate any health and wellness tips when you have a chance. OK, enough from me — let’s move on to people who actually submitted updates!”
Harper Cullen says, “Hi everyone. My wife and I landed our first home near China Beach in San Francisco. It’s close to some good surfing and hiking so we are over the moon. Our twin boys (William and Armour) turned two and violence is still trending but mostly they are happy, loving guys. My dad has been spending time with Bobby Watts on the Eastern Shore as they both have homes in Onancock, Va. I started a new job at a company called Whatfix just in time for my family’s month-long trip to Delaware this August. I am planning to hire one of the top fishing guides on the Eastern Shore for some Cobia/red fishing while I am home (Zack
80 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Tere Tippen Anderson with her father, Case Anderson ’03, sporting her EHS onesie watching The Game, 2021 edition!
The newest addition to Gray and Sally Murray’s ’03 family, Sam.
Class of ’03 at the EHS event in Charlotte: Graye Pelletier Todd, Caroline Inman Dyson, Lauren Pirrung Gilbert, and Hannah Baldwin Ozburn.
Hoisington). Hope everyone is healthy and happy. Please look me up if you come to San Francisco.”
Hendrik de Zwart reports, “I’m still in D.C., living in Navy Yard, and now working at Amazon as a public policy recruiter. Outside of that, I’ve been trying to make up for all the lost field hockey time since I moved to the US and the lost pandemic seasons by playing all the hockey I can, including traveling this year to Houston, Miami, Rehoboth, Del., Chicago, Los Angeles and Newark, Del. for tournaments, and also playing in a league based in NYC. I’m hoping to make it out to try-outs for the US Men’s National Team, but I think I’m getting a little old for that level so I’m waiting another few years to be eligible for the Master’s teams. I still see Peebles Squire ’05 and Taylor Fondren ’05 a fair bit in Richmond, and loved catching up with our classmates at the Mega Reunion — we should combine more often!”
Ina Dixon “would love to mention in Class Notes a nuts thing I did with fellow EHS alumnus Ed Walker ’85 last fall — took a sailboat, a catamaran called the Blue Jay, from France to the Bahamas! Whole thing took two months from October to December. We had perfect weather and a great chef on board as well as a South African captain who actually knew what he was doing. Despite all my time on the water, my knot skills are still lackluster, but what a trip of a lifetime! Also, guess what? My dissertation won a prize for being a pretty good history of the American South — I am on my way now to accept the “award” at the St. George Tucker Society conference in Savannah, Ga. Life is fun.”
Thomas Light says, “Kate and I are still enjoying life in Tampa. We are expecting a baby boy in November! Wild times.”
Cher Morris notes “I got married in April to my husband, Malcolm Hess. Vynn Huh ’06, Marianne Casey Zabel ’07, and Barbara Bai ’08 came to NYC to celebrate with us.”
Scout Douglas Osborne notes, “we’ve excitedly moved back to Alexandria, about one mile from Mount Vernon. Baby #3 will be joining us at the end of the summer! My family and I bittersweetly attended Doug Kehlenbrink’s funeral at Callaway Chapel a few months ago and got to visit with several alumni and former faculty members, such as Mr. Hershey, Frank Phillips, Anita Doyle,
81 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Peter Kehlenbrink ’08 , Aliana
Mark Battin ’06, Easley Hooff ’04, Andrew Farrar ’02, Charlton Miles ’04, Joe Stallworth ’03, Anderson Hackney Brown ’07, Wylie Hutchison ’07, Katharine Farrar ’07, Jim Farrar ’70, Loftin Johnson (bride), Lyle Farrar ’04, Scotty Farrar ’72, Lee McLaughlin ’03, Lee McLaughlin ’70, Jim Stallworth ’63, former faculty member Mason New, and Caulley Deringer ’82.
Honour Alston Thornton’s ’06 daughters, Harper and Pierce, pictured at the beach.
Ina Dixon ’06 and Ed Walker ’85 pictured on their sailing trip from France to the Bahamas.
Hendrik de Zwart ’06 pictured at a field hockey tournament in Chicago.
Shepherd ’08, Nick Hodson ’07, and Abby Halm ’13. It was lovely to see their faces and catch up on The Holy Hill.”
Mary Lide Parker says, “Greetings from the Caribbean! I’m at sea again, documenting a team of scientists and engineers aboard the R/V Atlantis. We’re using a human occupied submersible called Alvin. (Remember the little sub that filmed and photographed the Titanic? That’s Alvin!) The sub just achieved a new depth rating so we’re sending it deeper than it has ever gone before (a little over 20,000 feet). This is definitely one of the most epic expeditions I’ve ever joined. I love photographing the scientists as they come out of the sub after spending all day at the bottom of the ocean. Their expressions radiate pure joy. It was great to see so many people from our class at the Reunion! Hope everyone is doing well!”
Will Reavis reports, “We just got back from a quick trip to the D.C. area. We managed to squeeze in a quick picture at Episcopal before my kids all fell asleep. I was also able to catch up with Zack Hoisington in Annapolis one afternoon.”
Clay Schutte mentions, “I’m living in Houston, Texas for the year at a place called ‘The Shaunty Healing Center.’ It’s a place for people with bipolar and other mental health issues to get medical and spiritual help and guidance. It’s going well so far.”
Cate Smythe is “super excited to tell you that I’ve accepted a position at a local Waldorf school to teach Spanish to elementary students! Hanging up my chef coat and switching out with Ms. Lippy teacher vests.”
Honour Alston Thornton highlights that her family has “moved from Chicago to Virginia Beach this spring. Welcomed our second daughter, Harper in November. Big sister Pierce (3.5) is thrilled.”
’07
Katharine Farrar
(C) 540-460-2974
katharine.farrar@gmail.com
Joint 20th Reunion with 2008: June 2028
’08
Lucy Glaize Frey
(C) 540-327-2267
lglaize@gmail.com
Joint 15th Reunion with 2009: June 2024
Greetings from Michigan, where I’m holding on to every bit of summer possible. Northern
Michigan is, hands down, one of the best places on earth to spend the summer. I will always be a Virginia girl at heart, but since moving to Michigan six years ago, I’ve really come to appreciate how special the summers are here, particularly in Harbor Springs. Liz McLean Hughes and Wes Graf can now attest to the perfection of the little slice of Heaven that is Harbor Springs. They were in town for a wedding (of an EHS graduate’s sister), and I got to squeeze in a quick hello and some hugs. I’ll spare you all the Sunday
morning selfie we took, though. My husband, Tripp, our two sons, Renner and Fulton, and I still live in Grand Rapids, but spend our summers in Harbor Springs. If you ever get the chance to visit in the summer, do it!
Speaking of dreamy summertime destinations, Jeremy Austin, Lee Carter, Zach Glubiak, Dylan Harry, Todd Becker, and Tucker Clarkson all got together in Maine this summer. In Jeremy’s words, “it was purdy schweet!” Tom Weaver was ready to join the fun, but unfortunately his flight was canceled.
82 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Mary Lide Parker ’06 documenting an Alvin expedition in the Caribbean for the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.
A modern day renaissance shot in Pawleys Island, S.C., where Sarah Montz Harcus ’06, Caitlin Dirkes Simmonds ’06, Peyton Killeen Walling ’06, Kingsley Trotter McNeil ’06 and Molly Wheaton ’06 all congregated in August. Somebody frame this masterpiece ASAP!
Let’s hope that by the time you’re reading this in print, frequent flight delays and cancellations are no longer a norm and are a thing of the past.
I’m sure Tucker and his wife, Rebecca, welcomed the weather in Maine with open arms for that EHS reunion trip. Tucker and Rebecca recently moved to Jacksonville, Fla., after living in New Orleans for five years. They love seeing more of their family,
including Jack Clarkson ’48, now that they’re in Jacksonville.
Ann deSaussure Biondi is making big moves across the Episcopal campus with her husband, Jamie, and their daughter, Willa. They’re moving from Anderson dorm (where Ann and I were roommates for 2 of our 3 roommate years back in the early 2000s) to the brand new boys’ dorm. Jamie will be
83 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Will Reavis ’06 and Zack Hoisington ’06 catching up in Annapolis.
Many generations of EHS alumni at the EHS vs. WFS alumni golf tournament at Yeamans Hall Club in Hanahan, S.C.
Top row: Jeremy Austin ’08, Kayla Anne Joseph Austin, Zach Glubiak ’08, Dylan Harry ’08, Todd Becker ’08. Bottom row: Lee Carter ’08, Carolyn Carter, Allison Ledwith Glubiak ’07, Rebecca Clarkson, Tucker Clarkson ’08.
Upton Stover’s ’08 son, Raymond “Ray” Paul Augusta Stover.
Marshall Jack Stoner, son of Marguerite Kleinheinz Stoner ’08 and Matt Stoner.
dorm head. I should also note that Ann puts together this very magazine! Hi, roomie!
Ann Gordon Pelletier Eisenzimmer, her husband Chris, and their daughter Cece welcomed Smith Maxwell Eisenzimmer to their family on June 20, 2022.
Lily Fowle married Andrew Halls on April 30, 2022. It was an absolutely stunning wedding in Bermuda. Congrats, Lily and Andrew!
Emily Urquhart is also making moves. She is officially out of D.C. after 10 years, and is settling into her new home in Raleigh, N.C. now. I’m sure she loves being back in North Carolina!
As always, Whit Slagsvol is “involved with too many projects in [his] never-ending endeavor to not be a practicing lawyer,” in his words. The apparel brand with which he is involved, Block + Ink, is doing well. They are working on a project for GQ, recently finished a product for Margaritaville, and have a few other projects in the works. As noted in past Class Notes, they are doing a collaboration with one of the people from Southern Charm. Whit shared that he’s not a huge fan of the show, but that’s not stopping him from doing business.
Next in the project queue is a communications technology company Whit started a few years ago called Ripple Two (Air Force code for “bombs away”.) Apparently the project snowballed wildly out of control, in a good way. The company recently received a large grant from the department of defense to develop communications solutions for special forces. Whit found out about the grant at the end of June and was so excited, he almost ran through a wall. Yikes! Sure enough, Whit reached out to our classmate Matt Hurley, who now works in emerging tech for the military, and knows everything about the space. Sounds like the perfect expert to consult. Nothing beats the Episcopal network. If all goes well, by the end of the year, Whit will be focusing full time on this business, and being a lawyer will be the side gig. Until then, he said he’s still “lawyering by day and crime fighting by night.”
Regarding his law practice, he recently partnered with a few others to start Sweetgrass Law Group, because he could only go so far as a solo practice. It’s going well, and keeps him occupied when he’s not tinkering with one of his passion projects.
On to personal updates, you might remember from the last set of updates that Whit shared he is going to surprise his girlfriend Hailey with a big trip and a proposal when she finishes her Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Whit hasn’t proposed yet, but not to worry, his plans haven’t changed, it’s still a secret to Hailey, and he still describes her as an angel. His dog, Bacchus, is 10 years old, with the energy of a 2 year old. It seems he barely ages. Even the vet is thoroughly impressed! Bacchus came from one of Fritz Reuter’s ’07 family’s Boykin Spaniel litters. Whit said that they produce some of the best dogs ever, hands down. (I second this. My parents have a Boykin Spaniel from one of the Reuter’s litters, who is absolutely perfect.) I think it’s safe to say we are all on the edge of our seats for Whit’s next set of updates — apparel, Southern Charm, Air Force tech, proposals! Never a dull moment.
Marguerite Kleinheinz Stoner and Matt Stoner welcomed their second child, Marshall Jack Stoner, to their family on June 2, 2022!
Upton Stover and his wife, Meg, welcomed their first child, Raymond Paul August “Ray” Stover, on April 20, 2022. As you can see in the photo, Ray is already a big fan of The High School. He was rooting on the Episcopal Alumni golf team from Ann Arbor, Mich., during the Episcopal Woodberry Alumni Cup golf tournament in August. Upton and Spencer McKenna represented the Class of ’08 during the tournament, and hope to have more representation from the class at future tournaments. Apparently Woodberry had a strong representation from our generation, if that’s any motivation for anyone else to join for future tournaments!
Episcopal did win the tournament by 3, with a nice comeback on the last day.
I can’t wait to see the new campus buildings next time I’m on The Holy Hill, which will definitely be no later than our 15 year Reunion. I hope to see all of you there!
’09
Jeila Martin Kershaw
(C) 334-399-0386
jeilamartin@gmail.com
Haley Tenney
(C) 703-509-3117
09hmorga@gmail.com
Joint 15th Reunion with 2008: June 2024
Hello, beloved classmates! We have lived to send another class note and Haley and I hope they find you in EXCELLENT spirits and
84 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Ann Gordon Pelletier ’08 and Chris Eisenzimmer with their son Smith and daughter Cece.
Class of ’09 girls’ trip: Catherine Harrison Culp, Bitsy Motley, and Ginna Oates on vacation in Los Angeles.
Eleanor Galloway ’08, Andrew Halls, Lily Fowle Halls ’08, Ann Gordon Pelletier Eisenzimmer ’08, and Eliza Coker Sheldon ’08 at Lily and Andrew’s wedding in Bermuda.
health. Not to brag, but I have seen so many of you lovely people this summer and am just buzzing to tell everyone.
In June, Kate Stover Lane hopped over from her new abode in Portugal to stay with my family in Spain for a weekend and we reminisced on EHS days with my sister, Courtney Kershaw Taylor ’03, over paella and gin fizzes. If you find yourself in Lisbon, Kate and her husband Tim would love to show you around their new stomping grounds! When I returned to New Orleans I was overjoyed to discover that Smith Marks and his wife Kate had moved to town for her enrollment in a CRNA program at LSU Health Sciences! Hanes Dunn is happy to have a new golf partner to impress and I am just happy for the company! My final
sighting was in Greensboro, N.C., where I attended Frances Stone Edge’s baby shower with Claire Channell, a newly engaged Sarah Chase Webber, and Elle Czura. Claire and I headed to Figure Eight Island with Hanes and his beautiful wife Mary Parke afterwards for some R&R and that, my friends, is where my story ends.
David Block is practicing tax law in Washington, DC and recently bought a home in Old Town, Alexandria only a few minutes away from Episcopal. If anyone is ever in town he encourages them to reach out!
Beau Perona writes that he and Stephen Jervis live next door to each other in Williamsburg. Stephen got married last summer and Beau is engaged and they both have puppies! This summer they have been working hard, traveling, and seeing a lot of live music. “Happy, healthy, living our best lives. :)” Ok, twins! I’m trying to be like y’all!
Ginna Oates has almost as many summer updates as me (impressive). She has seen a few EHS people in California this summer starting with a little gals LA weekend in May with Catherine Harrison Culp and Bitsy Motley No celeb sightings but they had a great time —girls, you ARE the celebs in my book! Ginna and her husband Tyler then enjoyed a fourth of July weekend in Big Sur with Will Ryan and his wife Elizabeth. They dressed as the Founding Fathers and each carried copies of the Constitution. I think that you meant to carry the Declaration of Independence but I appreciate the commitment to the bit and will let this slide. Lastly, Ginna reports that she had a dinner reunion in San Francisco with Khoury Ibrahim Kindrish ’10, and Ben Shuford ’08 and his wife Kaitlyn while Ben was in town for work. I love and respect
the hustle, Ginna, and I think you have me beat. Retrieve your prize next time we see each other (it’s a DVD copy of “She’s The Man”).
Molly Seeley reports that she got a new job as the head of grants for the Helen Gurley Brown Foundation and that she is releasing a new album (!!!!!) in December with the next single out in September. I personally cannot wait to listen. Been a fan since The Crew Song and other hit singles on Anderson Dorm (2006). ’10
Whitt Clement
(C) 804-477-5732
whitt.clement@gmail.com
Joint 15th Reunion with 2011: June 2026 At long last, we celebrated our 10-year Reunion in June. It was fun to be on campus again with so many familiar faces. I was able to attend only briefly but can report that the other 2010ers in attendance — Josh Ashworth, Pen Jones, and Charles Gillock — are all well and living in Dallas, New York, and Nashville, respectively.
Other mini-reunions also took place this year. Audrey Humleker Garrison, Alexa Williams, Lindsey Fay, and Emily Fay met at Folly Beach, S.C., over Labor Day weekend to celebrate Emily’s upcoming wedding! Congrats, Emily!
Will Frazier reports, “I am working as the managing editor for The Yale Review, and I’m splitting my time between New Haven and NYC. I went to Lily Merrill Chatillon’s wedding in France this summer, and it was so much fun to reunite with Frances Brandley, Connor Williams, and Khoury Ibrahim Kindrish.”
Omar Protzuk and I met Brendan Luther in Richmond this summer to help celebrate Brendan’s 30th birthday. Omar is keeping busy as an orthopedist in Richmond where he lives with his wife Lauren. Brendan is enjoying living nearby and reports that he sees Robert Kittrell often too.
A group of EHS classmates gathered in Raleigh, N.C., in May for James Dorsett and Regan Murphy’s wedding. The happy newlyweds will continue living in Charlotte. Congratulations!
In other important news, William “Bo” Hunter deButts V was born June 7, 2022 in Virginia Beach to Hunter deButts and his wife, Molly. Hunter reports that Molly and
85 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Boota deButts III ’76, Hunter deButts Jr. ’47, and Hunter deButts IV ’10 with baby Bo deButts V.
Gilliam Kittrell ’74, Whitt Clement ’10, Gene McCarthy ’10, James Dorsett ’10, Barry Hughes ’10, Jimbo Hardison ’09, Brendan Luther ’10, Anthony Juker ’10, Robert Kittrell ’10, Rachel Hurley Kittrell ’10, Sarah Grace Hurley ’13, Cameron Hawkins ’10, Jordan Nulsen ’10, Tom Gosnell ’10, and Mary Adams ’11 celebrating James and Regan Dorsett.
baby are healthy. EHS Class of 2040, we’ve got one ready for you! Until next time, keep the updates coming…
’11
Connor Gallegos (C) 703-919-4833
connorgallegos92@gmail.com
Joint 15th Reunion with 2010: June 2026
’12
Celeste Jones (C) 434-414-4696 jonescelesteh@gmail.com
Joint 15th Reunion with 2013: June 2028 The Class of 2012 enjoyed catching up with old friends at our 10-year reunion this past June!
Quinn Caslow graduated from medical school in May and started his general surgery residency at Portsmouth Naval Medical Center this Summer. Quinn also got promoted to Lieutenant in the Navy! Before starting residency, Quinn took some well-deserved R&R traveling around France and Italy.
Merrill Pischke Coker and Lauren Mealy Burgin both welcomed beautiful babies into their families this past summer. We can only hope that one day they’ll be EHS classmates together like their moms!
Bethany Gordon graduated this past spring from UVA with a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering. Bethany is moving to Seattle this fall to work at The University of Washington.
Chase Hughes married David Thalhimer in Palm Beach, Fla., on July 18, 2022. Her bridesmaids included EHS alumnae, Marshall Weisiger, Lauren Mealy Burgin, Carly Lyerly Connell , Merrill Pischke Coker, and Elizabeth Buyck.
Chris Wasden married Landyn Dooley Wasden in Sewanee, Tenn., on June 25th.
’13
Somer Glubiak
(C) 804-370-5886
sglubiak@gwu.edu
Joint 10th Reunion with 2014: June 2024
’14
Cici Sobin
(C) 703-999-1277
cici.sobin@gmail.com
Joint 10th Reunion with 2013: June 2024
’15
Presley Goode
(C) 804-441-2286
pgoode2@gmail.com
Tyler Hartmeyer (C) 516-474-9843
tyler.hartmeyer@gmail.com
Morgan Lineberry
(C) 205-789-0447
morganlineberry12@gmail.com
Joint 10th Reunion with 2016: June 2026 Madison Hardaway writes, “I am now living in Hickory, N.C. I graduated from ATP Flight School and Mike Two-One Aviation this Summer. I am working as a Certified Flight Instructor for Mike Two-One Aviation at the Foothills Regional Airport (KMRN)!”
86 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
Back row: Woody Dewing ’12, Brett Dewing ’14. Middle Row: Greta Holt ’17, Matt Hurley ’08, Hunter Fairchild ’11. Front row: Blair Dewing ’13, Emma Holt Hurley ’12, Tom Hurley ’11, Sophie Holt ’15.
Class of ’12 at Chase Hughes’ wedding: Marshall Weisiger, Lauren Mealy Burgin, Chase Hughes Thalhimer, Carly Lyerly Connell, Merrill Pischke Coker, and Elizabeth Buyck.
Right to left: Jack Rauch ’12, Hunt Wasden ’18, Grace Weisiger ’13, Gus Youmans ’12, Chris Wasden ’12, Ben Taylor ’12, Landyn Dooley, Celeste Jones ’12, Austin Conger ’12, Marshall Weisiger ’12, former faculty member from 1992-2014 Bobby Watts P’98 ’00, Melissa Watts, and former faculty member from 2001-2014 Mason New.
Chase Hughes ’12 and David Thalhimer.
Kate Oldham and Hamilton Drucker ’14 are engaged! Kate and Hamilton, who met during their time at EHS, were engaged this summer on Nantucket and are beginning wedding planning.
’16Kelsey Anderson
(C) 703-624-6968
kelseymanderson4@gmail.com
Andrew Karo (C) 804-592-9640
andrew@andrewkaro.com
Priscilla Barton-Metcalfe (C) 727-410-8746
16bartop@gmail.com
Joint 10th Reunion with 2015: June 2026 Class of 2016! What a blast to reunite on The Holy Hill in June for our Mega Reunion. Even better to be able to see friends from the Classes of 2015 and 2017! Hope you are all doing well and were able to enjoy the summer spending time with friends and family. I was fortunate to spend some time in Minneapolis with my whole family visiting my brother Kurt Anderson ’13 and his wife Morgan. They are expecting a baby boy in November!
Here is what some other folks have been up to since June:
Zoe Ashburn started a new job at a Marketing Agency in May, but remains in the D.C. area.
Porter Geer is excited to have moved to Austin, Texas this summer and be living in the same city as Georgia Hough again. D.C. misses you already, Porter!
Josh Szymczak ’16
A normal day at work for Josh Szymczak ’16 consists of billows of smoke, 16-hour shifts, and temperatures above 1,400℉. Szymczak is a member of the U.S. Forest Service’s “hotshots” crew, firefighters who battle the hottest part of wildfires.
Originally from McLean, Va., Szymczak transferred to EHS his sophomore year before contining on to Sewanee: The University of the South. His grandfather, Josh Darden ’54, and uncle, Allan Parrott ’84, both attended Episcopal, and he knew its reputation well before coming to campus.
While at EHS, he was a member of the boys’ soccer team under Rick Wilcox, head soccer coach and associate director of advancement. That experience helped him understand the importance of teamwork — something that would come in handy down the road as not only as a player at Sewanee but also in his career as a hotshot.
“Coach Wilcox played a major part in teaching me how to be on a team. The women and men I work with daily are my teammates because we all depend on each other,” Szymczak reflected.
After a cross-country trip to Oregon with four of his Sewanee friends, Szymczak solidified his career choice and became a wildland firefighter. From there, he became a hotshot. Primarily out west, the hotshots are a team of highly skilled individuals committed to wildfire suppression, management, and control. It requires pointed knowledge, skills and abilities, and extensive training. Preparing to fight the hottest part of a fire and protect people’s homes and livelihoods remains his biggest passion.
“I started firefighting in college during the summers. I enjoyed the high intensity and pace of work because I have ADHD,” he said. “I’m definitely honored because it’s a massive responsibility.”
After a few years with the hotshots, he plans to attend fire science classes in Montana to expand his knowledge, and eventually go into fire technology. In addition to his passion for fighting fires, Szymczak is an advocate for his fellow firefighters. “I wish everyone knew that the job of being a firefighter is very blue collar, and there’s a lot that goes into it,” he explains in highlighting the importance of the current bipartisan infrastructure bill that appropriated funding for firefighter pay raises through the end of the 2023 fiscal year.
For current students, he wants to stress the importance of getting outside of your comfort zone while at EHS. “I kick myself because I wish I could tell my younger self to not just sit in my dorm room,” he laughed. “It’s cool to do a sports team, but go take an art class, talk to your science teacher, and really try to push yourself while you’re there.”
For him, Episcopal played a huge role in gaining maturity, taking on responsibility, and learning how to manage his ADHD. He credits The Holy Hill with preparing him for the world and aiding his confidence as a young man. “The High School does a great job of exploring opportunities in D.C. All the field trips you can do outside of the classroom really form you into a well-rounded young adult,” he said.
When asked what he would tell an Episcopal student today, Szymczak paused to reflect: “Whatever you’re doing in life, give it your all. Choose the hard right over the easy wrong; strive to be the best version of yourself; beat Woodberry; and of course, God Bless The High School.”
87 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
After Episcopal
Madison Hardaway ’15 receiving his certification to be a flight instructor at Foothills Regional Airport.
Maya Glenn’s research has been awarded a second fellowship from the National Science Foundation. Go Maya!
Brian Kim is moving to LA in August to pursue a PhD in Computer Science at USC!
Zach Najera reports that he also moved to LA and is now working as an audio engineer at Interscope Records.
’17
Halle Hughes (C) 904-322-2828
hughes.halle@me.com
LizaBanks Campagna
(C) 202-650-7687
lizabankscampagna@gmail.com
Joint 10th Reunion with 2018: June 2028
LizaBanks Campagna is pursuing her master’s degree in journalism at Georgetown University. There is never a dull moment in her life as she spends her free time doing comedy shows, playing lacrosse, and thrifting cool vintage items for resale.
Honor Kalkin is working as a strategist and writer for Siegel+Gale, an advertising and branding company in New York City, working behind brands like CVS Health, SAP, H&R Block, and many more.
William Wiltshire, lead teacher at Success Academy in New York, is gearing up to run the 2022 New York City Marathon in November. Follow him on social media to support or donate!
And a huge congratulations to Luiji Vilain who made the Minnesota Vikings roster!
’18Lexi Weger (C) 571-721-8585
aweger@princeton.edu
Joint 5th Reunion with 2019: June 2024 Erin Phillips and Nettie Webb head back to The Holy Hill as members of EHS’s first fellows program. Erin is working in the admissions office and as activities coordinator, and Nettie is teaching physics and coaching robotics. They are living together on Anderson first floor.
Sophie Singletary spent the end of her summer in New York City. She met up with Eloise York, Janie Stillwell, and Mr. and Mrs. Stillwell. Janie and Eloise are living together in New York.
Colt Waller started a job working in production at Miramax. He is based in Los Angeles, and is living with Griffin
88 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login,
contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
please
Jordan Tyler ’16 after climbing Mt. Fuji (12,500 ft) in Japan on August 6, 2022.
Caroline Haley ’15, Meredith Sacket ’15, Jeremy Goldstein, Kelsey Anderson ’16, and Georgia Hough ’16 having a mini girls’ varsity soccer reunion during the Mega Reunion in June!
Blair Dewing ’13, Dr. Kim Olsen, and Nettie Webb ’18 returning to Episcopal to start the new school year. Lexi Weger ’18 and Ivy Houde ’15.
Alumni reunion at Wake Forest. Front row: Eleanor Winants ’18, Ellie Cummings ’19, Elyse Farrell ’20, Claire Boehm ’20. Back row: John Peterson ’20, Alex Koppenhaver ‘21, Kate Jones ’18, Vincent Notzon ’18, Hunt Wasden ’18, Alice Maxey ’19, Jack Niven ’18, Luke Mascatello ’19, Bradley Kelly ’18.
Donaldson! Griffin is working as a consultant for FTI Consulting.
Lexi Weger interned for the NBA this past summer, doing international strategy and development. She lived in New York and played in a basketball league with former EHS teammate, Ivy Houde ’15
Brianna Williams graduated with Cum Laude honors from William & Mary, and is working for SPARKS Consulting Group – the same company as her EHS Senior Externship!
Three alumni from the 2016 IAC Championship football team are current FBS D1 captains. Perris Jones ’18
(UVA), Ricky Miezan ’18 (Stanford), and Johnathan Sutherland ’17 (Pennsylvania State University).
’19Olivia Tucker (C) 415-361-1561
olivia.tucker@yale.edu
Lilly Whitner (C) 904-504-5027
lfwhitner@gmail.com
Joint 5th Reunion with 2018: June 2024
’20South Wallace (C) 843-973-0626
20wallas@episcopalhighschool.org
Joint 5th Reunion with 2020: June 2026
’21Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
Joint 5th Reunion with 2021: June 2026
’22
Class Correspondents Needed
If you would like to share an update or volunteer to be the Class Correspondent, please contact Marissa Murdock at mmurdock@episcopalhighschool.org or 703-933-4125.
Joint 5th Reunion with 2023: June 2028
89 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Sophie Singletary ’18, Sallie Stillwell, Janie Stillwell ’18, Charley Stillwell, and Eloise York ’18 together in New York.
Lawson Laverty ’21 and Finlay MacKnight ’20 after the Amherst vs. Williams college lacrosse game.
Paige Hathaway ’18, Ransdell McCauley ’20, Will Sternberg ’20, Noë Boggan ’21, Lillian Jester ’21, Brenton Smith ’21, Gray Goodwyn ’18, and Thomas Gibert ’21 out to dinner at UNCChapel Hill.
Births and New Arrivals
Email alumni@episcopalhighschool.org with news of births, adoptions, and other family additions.
Christopher James Kushner to Katie and Hunt Kushner ’02 in April
Henri Moreau to Geoff and Blair Harbour Moreau ’02 on January 26, 2022
Samuel “Sam” Robert Murray to Gray ’03 and Sally Murray ’03 on February 21, 2022
Tere Tippen Anderson to McGowin and Case Anderson ’03 in October 2021
Smith Maxwell Eisenzimmer to Chris and Ann Gordon Pelletier Eisenzimmer ’08 on June 20, 2022
Marshall Jack Stoner to Matt and Marguerite Kleinheinz Stoner ’08 on June 2, 2022
Raymond “Ray” Paul Augusta Stover to Meg and Upton Stover ’08 on April 20, 2022
William “Bo” Hunter deButts V to Molly and Hunter deButts ’10 on June 7, 2022
Araya Rae Valenzuela Badji to Brittany Cohen and Dominique Badji ’11 on June 22, 2022
Gates Merrill Coker to Thomas and Merrill Pischke Coker ’12 on July 3, 2022
Lola Holt Hurley to Tom ’11 and Emma Holt Hurley ’12 on July 28, 2022
Marriages
Scott Griffin ’81 to Nora Raynor on October 3, 2020
Cher Morris ’06 to Malcolm Hess on April 1, 2022
Lily Fowle ’08 to Andrew Halls on April 30, 2022
Emma Holt ’12 to Tom Hurley ’11 on June 4, 2022
Chase Hughes ’12 to David Thalhimer on July 18, 2022
alumni@episcopalhighschool.org with news of any and all matrimonial unions.
Email
90 SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE! Just go to the homepage and click on “Alumni” and then “Submit A Class Note.” For help with passwords or login, please contact the Advancement Office. CLASS NOTES
In Memoriam
Channing
At Episcopal, Mr. Brown was a member of the football team, played spring tennis, and ran track. He also was a sub waiter.
Mr. Brown is survived by his three children, niece, nephew, and grandchildren.
N.Y., on July 23, 2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Richardson played varsity baseball, Centennial basketball, and JV football. He also was a member of Missionary Society, Whispers and The Chronicle board, both halves, alumni news, Egypt, 12th night, and the rifle team.
Mr. Richardson is survived by his three children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Luella.
Dr. Harry Harlan “Harlan” Stone ’48 of Piedmont, S.C., on April 7, 2022
At Episcopal, Dr. Stone was a member of the Fairfax Literary Society, Stewart A.C., Dramatic club, Egypt Society, and Missionary Society.
Dr. Stone is survived by his three sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Jean.
5, 2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Harrison was a member of E Club, Press Club, Missionary Society, Wilmer Literary Society, choir, Whispers, Chronicle, and E.H.S News. He played varsity football, varsity track, varsity tennis, and ran winter and spring track. Mr. Harrison was a monitor, cheerleader, waiter, school room keeper, and president and treasurer for Fairfax Literary Society.
Mr. Harrison is survived by his wife, Ann, three sons, sister, and eight grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brother DeSales Harrison ’42, son, and grandson.
23, 2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Robertson was a Monitor and a member of the Whispers Board, The Chronicle, press club, and choir. He also played varsity football, varsity baseball, and soccer and was a cheerleader. Mr. Robertson was a member of Missionary Society, Blackford Literary Society, E Club, and Follies. While a student, Mr. Robertson won the Declaimer’s Medal and Blackford Literary Society Reader’s Medal.
Mr. Robertson is survived by his cousins, James Gunn Murphy III ’02 and Mary Kennon Caithness Woodson ’07; great nieces and nephews, Caroline Costner Williamson ’09, Benjamin Robert Williamson III ’12, Wyndham Josephine Williamson ’16, Blanche Robertson Williamson ’21, and stepnephew, Louis Moore Bacon ’74. He was predeceased by his wife, Josephine. See page 10 for more.
Thomas
2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Mabley was a member of The Chronicle, Follies, Egypt, glee club, choir, Blue Blazers, and Blackford Literary Society. He was also a cheerleader and played JV basketball.
Mr. Mabley is survived by his wife, Geraldine, two daughters, and four grandchildren. He was predeceased by his uncle, Joseph Mabley Class of 1924
Robert Pegram “Pegram” Harrison ’51 of Atlanta, Ga. on July
Julian Hart Robertson Jr. ’51 of New York, N.Y., on August
“Tom” Mabley III ’52 of Hudson, N.Y., on August 12,
Bolton Brown Jr. ’45 of Huntley, Ill., on May 17, 2022
Robert Thomas “Bob” Richardson ’48 of Somers,
91 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Robert Porter “Bob” Morgan ’52 of Bryn Mawr, Pa. on November 17, 2021
At Episcopal, Mr. Morgan was a monitor and president of glee club. He was also a member of the Athletic Advisory Board, E Club, Follies, Blue Blazers, Hop Committee, Missionary Society, and the Blackford Literary Society. Mr. Morgan played varsity tennis and was captain of the varsity basketball team.
Mr. Morgan is survived by his wife, Carole; brother, Hugh Jackson Morgan Jr. ’46; and nephew, Hugh J. Morgan III ’83.
Capt. Edwin Barden “Ted” Smedberg ’52
At Episcopal, Capt. Smedberg played varsity basketball, varsity baseball, and football. He was a member of dramatics, E Club, Egypt, Follies, and Blackford Literary Society.
Capt. Smedberg is survived by his wife, Beverly, five children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brother, Adm. William Renwick Smedberg IV ’47
Dr. Robert Kendall “Kendall” Brown ’53
At Episcopal, Dr. Brown played JV basketball, JV baseball, and fall tennis. He was a member of dramatics.
Dr. Brown is survived by his wife, Nancy, three children, and nine grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son, granddaughter, and two siblings.
James Armstrong “Jim” Cathcart III ’55 of Kiawah Island, S.C., on April 10, 2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Cathcart was a member of the choir, glee club, E Club, Fairfax Literary Society, and was a monitor. He was the captain of winter and spring track and played varsity football. Mr. Cathcart’s track legacy at Episcopal includes his induction to the EHS Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011, broken records in the 100-yard dash and long jump, and an unbroken record in the 200-yard dash. Along with Mr. Cathcart’s incredible athletic ability, his generosity of spirit for the EHS community led to the creation of the James A. Cathcart Jr. Mastership For the Head Coach of Track and Field. He also funded The James A. Cathcart III Scholarship, an award and scholarship fund that honors long-time teacher and Mr. Cathcart’s track coach, C. V. Tompkins.
He is survived by his wife, Charlen; two daughters; five brothers, Charles D. Cathcart ’59, George L. Cathcart ’65, John Sloan Cathcart ’69, Sanders Beverley Cathcart ’72, and Richard Cathcart; and cousin, Campbell Heyward Jackson ’15 He was predeceased by his father, James A. Cathcart Class of 1926, and cousin, Dr. Robert Spann Cathcart III ’57.
Henry Ernest Blake ’57 of Alexandria, La., on February 5, 2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Blake played football, soccer, baseball, managed varsity football, and was the baseball scorekeeper. He also was a member of Blackford Literary Society, Whispers, The Chronicle, Glee Club, Choir, dramatics, and Egypt.
Mr. Blake is survived by his brother, James Hardtner Blake ’48; grandchildren including Stephen Hardtner Faris ’16, Philip Lyman Faris ’13, Caroline Juliet Faris ’19; and great nieces and nephews including Blake Andrew Rose ’04 and Annabel Rose Dinnerstein ’07. He was predeceased by wife, Jean, son, and brother, William Dows Blake ’51. Mr. Blake is also survived by daughter Caroline Blake Faris, who worked in the EHS College Counseling Office from 2012-2016.
of Falls Church, Va., on August 7, 2021
of Georgetown, Ky., on April 18, 2019
92 IN MEMORIAM
Louis Haynes “Louie” Gump ’57
Johnson City, Tenn., on July 20, 2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Gump served on the Honor Committee and as a senior monitor. He also was an usher, the secretary of E-Club, a member of Hop Committee and Missionary Society, president of Blackford Literary Society, and layout editor of Whispers. Mr. Gump played varsity football, varsity baseball, and soccer.
Mr. Gump is survived by his daughter; three sons, Louis Kennerly Gump ’85, Jay Robertson Gump ’86, and Warren Miller Gump ’89; and nephew, Alan M. Gump ’68. He was predeceased by his wife, Lucy.
Jewett Swift III ’57
Columbus, Ga., on December 31, 2021
At Episcopal, Mr. Swift played JV football and ran varsity track and winter track. He was a waiter, Assistant Stage Manager for Dramatics, and a member of Missionary Society.
Mr. Swift is survived by his wife, Barbara, his son, two sisters, and seven nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Clifford J. Swift ’31 , and uncle, John H. Swift ’45.
Dr.
“Breeze” Winfield ’60
2022
At Episcopal Dr. Winfield was captain of varsity wrestling, JV baseball, JV football, and 130 football. He was a member of Wilmer Literary Society, Honor Committee, Whispers, and The Chronicle. He was also a Monitor, Head Waiter, Head Cheerleader, President of E Club, Vice President of Missionary Society, and won the Whittle Prize in ’57, ’58, and ’59.
Dr. Winfied is survived by his wife, Leigh, two daughters, brother, sister, five grandchildren, and three nieces. He was predeceased by his son, sister, nephew, uncle, William H. Winfield Class of 1926, and cousin, James C. Peter Winfield, Jr. ’83
At Episcopal, Mr. LeGrand was a member of choir, glee club, Missionary Society, Whispers, The Chronicle, and Fairfax Literary Society. He played varsity soccer and managed varsity track. Mr. LeGrand was also a Monitor and head post office keeper.
Mr. LeGrand is survived by his two children, two nephews, and granddaughter. He was predeceased by his brother, Dr. Gordon Buck LeGrand ’57, and uncle, Harrison Leigh Buck Class of 1925.
Milton Lanier “Lanier” Woodrum ’61 of Roanoke, Va., on September 8, 2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Woodrum was a Monitor, secretary of Missionary Society, president of Blackford Literary Society, and Assistant Head Waiter. He was also a member of Hop Committee, E Club, choir, and glee club. Mr. Woodrum was on the varsity wrestling team and was the captain of the JV football team and manager of Greenway baseball.
Mr. Woodrum is survived by his wife, Beverly, two children, and six grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brother, The Hon. Chip A. Woodrum III ’57, uncle, Milton H. Lanier ’32, and nephew, Robert Hutchins Woodrum ’83.
David Alexander “Dave” Harrison IV ’63 of Richmond, Va., on April 13, 2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Harrison was a member of the advisory board, E Club, choir, glee club, Wilmer Literary Society, Missionary Society, and Fairfax Literary Society. He served on the Dramatics Executive Board, Grins and Grimaces Executive Board, and Athletic Advisory Board. He served as Third Term Chaplin Chairman and a monitor. He also played varsity football, lacrosse, junior varsity tennis, junior varsity baseball, and was the captain of varsity soccer.
Mr. Harrison is survived by his wife, Ashton; brother, George Anderson Harrison ’74; nephews: Julian Harrison Keevil ’01, Peter Vincent Webb ’03 , Alexander Anderson Keevil ’04 , Edward Allingham Armstrong III ’07; and cousins: Maria Reuge Kelly ’04 , Elizabeth Harrison Carrington ’06 , and Catherine Harrison Culp ’09. He was predeceased by his father, David Alexander Harrison III ’35
of
Clifford
of
John Buckner
of Chapel Hill, N.C., on March 1,
John Lillington LeGrand ’61 of The Villages, Fla., on July 29, 2022
93 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
Nathaniel Elliott “Elliott” Barnwell ’64
At Episcopal, Mr. Barnwelll was a member of Missionary Society, Wilmer Literary Society, Blackford Literary Society, Whispers, The Chronicle, and Daemon. He also played cake and junior football, JV soccer, lacrosse, and ran track.
Mr. Barnwell is survived by his brothers, Francis LeJau Parker Barnwell ’66 and John Parker Barnwell ’74 , and nephew, Francis LeJau Parker Barnwell Jr., ’04. He was predeceased by his wife, Nancy, and his father, Nathaniel L. Barnwell ’33
Reginald Darlington “Rex” Wilson Jr. ’68
18, 2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Wilson was a member of Fairfax Literary Society, Wilmer Literary Society, Athletic Advisory Board, Chapel Committee, E Club, and Daemon. He was also on the Dramatics Executive Board, was a Monitor, Vice President of Blackford Literary Society, and Assistant Head Waiter. Mr. Wilson ran track and was captain of varsity football and varsity baseball. In 1968, he won first place in the Blackford debate contest, and he was inducted into the EHS Athletics Hall of Fame in 2017 as a member of the 1966 baseball team.
Mr. Wilson is survived by his wife, Paula, three children, a sister, four grandchildren, three nieces, and nephews.
Tucker Wayne Beaumont ’73
At Episcopal, Mr. Beaumont was in E club, Missionary Society and choir. He also played varsity soccer and varsity lacrosse.
Webb III ’97
At Episcopal, Mr. Webb played varsity basketball, varsity tennis, and JV football. He also ran cross country and track. He was a member of the 1997 State Championship basketball team that was celebrated by the EHS Athletics Hall of Fame in November of 2017.
Mr. Webb is survived by his wife, Xandria, children, mother, father, Thomas Ladson Webb Jr., ’69, sister, Katherine Webb Easterling ’95, brother, LTJG. Michael McMahon Webb ’04, nine cousins, and five nieces.
At Episcopal, Mr. Mitchener played varsity golf, junior soccer, Maroon and Black soccer, and JV squash. He also participated in the winter musical. At his commencement exercises he received the Alexander Jennette Johnston Award for Excellence in Performing Arts.
Mr. Mitchener is survived by his father, uncle, William Thomas Mitchener ’76 , and cousins, Ruffin Collett Mitchener ’11 and Victoria Larson Mitchener ’14. He was predeceased by his mother, uncle, A. Stevenson Mitchener ’74, and grandparents.
At Episcopal, Mr. Stephenson was a part of the community council and the student investment group. He played varsity football and junior basketball, ran varsity cross country, and managed indoor track and field.
Mr. Stephenson is survived by his mother and father, two sisters, grandmothers, seven aunts and uncles, and nine cousins. He was predeceased by his grandfathers.
of Charleston S.C., on April 14, 2022
of Lake Junaluska, N.C., on September
of Bent Mountain, Va., on April 17, 2022
Thomas Ladson “Ladson”
of Virginia Beach, Va., on June 30, 2022
James Samuel “Jim” Mitchener IV ’07 of Roanoke, Va., on July 31, 2022
Charles Harper “Charlie” Stephenson ’19 of Alexandria, Va., on July 10, 2022
94 IN MEMORIAM
Faculty, Staff, and Friends
Rt. Reverend Bishop Peter James Lee of Chapel Hill, N.C. on July 2, 2022
The Rt. Reverend Bishop Peter James Lee was the 12th bishop of the Diocese of Virginia and an ex officio member of the EHS Board of Trustees, serving as Rector of the Board for 25 years. Episcopal was fortunate to be the beneficiary of his wisdom and leadership.
Bishop Lee is survived by his wife, Kristina, daughter, son, and several grandchildren.
Steve Six of El Cajon, Calif., on August 15, 2022
At Episcopal, Mr. Six taught German from 1970-1987. “Herr Six,” as he was affectionately known by his students, was a tough but legendary teacher, coach, and mentor. Whether in the classroom, on the cross-country course, or on trips abroad in Germany, Mr. Six made a positive impact on countless students and left an indelible mark on EHS.
95 EHS THE MAGAZINE OF EPISCOPAL HIGH SCHOOL
The Impact of “Lighthouse People”
During his Chapel Talk at the opening of school Vespers service, Head of School Charley Stillwell challenged students to purposefully consider their capacity to selflessly do good for others within the community at large. An excerpt is shared below.
As we start the year together, I hope you will take the time to step back and consider what type of person you hope to be this year and the impact you hope to make on our community.
A quality that I hope you will all strive to exhibit this year came to mind for me this summer as I was reading an interesting book by Steve Pemberton entitled The Lighthouse Effect: How Ordinary People Can Have An Extraordinary Impact On The World. This book was filled with stories about people who had supported others at just the right time and in just the right way. Its central theme was that we all have the capacity and the opportunity to serve as “lighthouse people” in the lives of others. I think you can picture the image of a lighthouse — typically a tall structure with a turning light positioned on high ground and often near obstacles in the water that ship captains use to guide their safe passage back to port. Pemberton said that “lighthouse people” are those people who share a special light and warmth as a source of
support and feeling of security for others just when they need it most. He reminds us that lighthouses offer their presence in a selfless and humble way. Their light meets people where they are. Lighthouses cause us to “focus on possibilities over circumstances, turn doubt into destinations, and turn trials into trajectories.” Lighthouses seek nothing in return; their support emanates from within; it’s just who they are, and their light shines not to improve their own situation. For me, being a lighthouse person connects directly with a key quality in our Portrait of a Graduate that you can see on the wall of our McCain-Ravenel Center, the importance of leading and serving with humility and kindness.
This summer I had a powerful reminder of the impact that a “lighthouse” person can have. Many of you may have heard that we learned very sad news this summer about the death of a special young man in our Class of 2019, Charlie Stephenson. We hosted Charlie’s memorial service here in Callaway Chapel at the end of July, and it was a powerful and very emotional reminder of what a special person Charlie was. Had you met Charlie yourself, initially you may not have thought of him as being a person who would make such an impact. He was pretty understated and quiet at times and
CHAPEL
TALK
96
kept a low profile. He was not the person in his class who was elected to key positions, or the key starter on varsity teams, or the lead in arts performances. In fact his mother explained that he had loved The Game with Woodberry from a young age and that one of his absolute best moments here was when he had a chance to enter The Game for the last few plays his senior year as the team sealed an exciting victory over Woodberry.
What amazed me at his memorial service was that an endless array of Charlie’s classmates here and his classmates at Texas Christian University told lighthouse stories about him. What everyone so appreciated about Charlie was how he always put everyone else first. Charlie had a magnetic smile and a kind heart. When he entered a room, he had a special knack to see those individuals who were a little hesitant or who may have been feeling left out. Charlie always found just the right way to connect with them, to make them feel known and appreciated, and to help them feel part of the group. It was never about Charlie, and he never was doing it to feel better about himself or to gain recognition. He quietly made Episcopal and TCU much better places for all around him, and his classmates loved
him for it. Soon we will be establishing a special sitting area on campus in recognition of Charlie where I hope many of you will find a way to have a helpful conversation with another student here who could use a pat on the back or a boost in confidence.
So next June when our seniors are walking across the stage to end their Episcopal careers, I hope that all of us, students and adults alike, can look each other in the eye and think back on this year with pride in our many moments as lighthouse people. If we use Charlie’s lighthouse-person qualities as our guide, we can build the strongest and most vibrant community here that Episcopal has ever had. Thanks, and have a great year ahead. I am excited to watch you all in action. Go High School!
Scan for Mr. Stillwell’s full Chapel Talk.
703-933-3000 1-877-EHS-1839
www.episcopalhighschool.org
Change Service Requested
1200 North Quaker Lane Alexandria, VA 22302