LEADERSHIP 2020-2021 Board of Trustees John Adams O. David Barksdale ’84 Beverly H. Bonaparte, Ph.D. Stephen D. Busey – Chancellor Troy M. Davis ’93 Kelly Flanagan ’02 Heather Fouts Alex Graham ’00 Michael J. Grebe – Secretary Paige Hakimian Mark R. LaBorde ’84 R. Brian King John B. Magevney ’89 Andrew K. McCain ’80 The Very Rev. Katherine B. Moorehead – Vice Chair Helen C. Rowan – Chair John C. Schmidt ’70 Sally Haskell Singletary ’86 William N. Steitz III Carl E. Stoudemire III ’75 Stephen M. Suddath ’73 Kenneth D. Sweder Arnold D. Tritt, Jr. ’81 Ryan J. Uitti Amy Wacaster ’94 Theodora D. Walton Sidney E. Wells ’91 The Right Rev. Samuel John Howard, Bishop of Florida, Ex-Officio The Rev. Adam S. Greene, Head of School, Ex-Officio Heather Rainey Mosely ’88, Alumni Board President, Ex-Officio The Rev. Thomas P. Murray, Rector of St. Mark’s, Ex-Officio Foundation Board Robert M. Clements George Egan Stephen D. Moore Jr. Michael A. Kelley John E. Sawyer IV Kenneth D. Sweder – Chairman Helen C. Rowan, Ex-Officio The Rev. Adam S. Greene, Ex-Officio Trustees Emeriti William B. Bond E. Bruce Bower Peggy P. Bryan J.F. Bryan IV Stephen D. Busey The Right Rev. Frank S. Cerveny John W. Donahoo, Jr. † David W. Foerster Henry H. Graham Jr. †
Joan S. Haskell Preston H. Haskell III Mark Hulsey† Allen L. Lastinger Delores T. Lastinger Hugh M. Magevney III J.T. McCormick † Thad L. McNulty Walter A. McRae Jr. † John A. Mitchell III Jane S. Munnerlyn † W. Wilson Munnerlyn † The Reverend Doctor Robert R. Parks † Gert H. W. Schmidt † The Hon. Gerald B. Tjoflat Elizabeth Walton † William H. Walton Jr. † Mary Winston † James H. Winston † Katharine K. Zambetti Head of School Emeritus Charles F. Zimmer Honorary Trustees Michael D. Abney † William B. Barnett Margaret B. Berg † Jackie J. Busse Robert M. Clements Maxwell K. Dickinson Thomas M. Donahoo J. Dix Druce Jr. The Right Rev. Bertram N. Herlong † Richard H. Jones Ross T. Krueger Joan W. Newton Marion B. Poitevent Luther F. Sadler Richard H. Suddath † The Very Rev. Gustave J. Weltsek † Alumni Board Officers Heather Rainey Moseley ’88 – President William Milne ’00 – President-Elect Julie Wiggins Sorenson ’98 – Vice President of Membership Peter Blumeyer ’08 & Mary Lanier Cook ’94 – Vice Presidents of The Episcopal Fund Nicole Clemons Lewis ’97 – Secretary Shannon Shea ’89 – Chaplain Brad McCollum ’08 – Eagle Society Chair
ESJ
|3 |
2021
Alumni Board Members at Large Mary Burke Baker ’93 Brooks Fraleigh Cannon ’97 Derek Gaff ’87 Darren Glenn ’91, Reunion Weekend Chair Lee Haramis ’10 Jennifer Stopiak Hayes ’90 Ashley Helmick Howard ’07, Lady Alumni Co-Chair Leigh Elizabeth Black Israel ’05 Deanna Thornton Lombardo ’10, Lady Alumni Co-Chair Joseph Murray ’99 Colleen McDermott November ’99 Graham Riley ’00 Stacy Byrd Thomas ’07 Tracy Thompson ’12, Young Alumni Committee Co-Chair Nick Walker ’10, Young Alumni Committee Co-Chair David Wingard ’92 Katharyn Smith Woods ’07 Editor Meg Scheu Sacks Design and Production Katie Lawrence Photography Kelli Chunn Ashley Davis Laura Evans Photography Elisa Formoso Joe Kohla Brandon Westerman ’99 Mark Wallheiser Contributors Katie Black-Bowling ‘95 Kelli Chunn Ashley Davis Belinda Hess Taylor Lee Horne ‘00 Andy Farmer Matt Flakus Heather Newman Johnson ’90 Missy Ketchum Andy Kidd ’99 Jane Labossier Kate Moorehead Teresa Seagle Chip Stroud Francine Andia Walker ’77 Brandon Westerman ’99 Marcus Wells ’90 Jennifer Windley († deceased)
Montreat College
Stetson University
University of North Florida
Pennsylvania State University
Swarthmore College
University of Pennsylvania
Princeton University
Tallahassee Community College
University of Richmond
Purdue University
Texas Christian University
University of South Carolina
Randolph-Macon College
Tulane University of Louisiana
University of South Florida
Rhodes College
University of Central Florida
University of Tampa
Roanoke College
University of Cincinnati
University of Tennessee
Rollins College
University of Colorado
University of Texas
Samford University
University of Florida
University of Virginia
Santa Fe College
University of Georgia
Vanderbilt University
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
University of Miami
Virginia Polytechnic Institute
University of Mississippi
Wake Forest University
Sewanee: The University of the South
University of Nebraska
Warren Wilson College
University of North Carolina
Yale University
Southern Methodist University
ESJ
| 31 |
2021
40 Years of Service Special Recognition Janet Buford and Candy Oberdorfer Edwards ‘70 were each recognized for 40 years of service to Episcopal at the end of year faculty and staff lunch on May 27. ESJ is thankful for their longtime love and dedication to the school.
RE T I RING FAC ULT Y AND STAFF Mary Hayden has worked at Episcopal for nine years. Her children Kyle ’00 and Catherine ’01 are alumni. Mary most recently worked in the Admission Office as Admission Office Coordinator, and she previously served in the Student Services Office and the Welcome Center.
Gail Connery is retiring after 19 years at Episcopal. Gail is a member of the Mathematics Department and the anchor of the Geometry team. She has also been an invaluable contributor to the 9th Grade Orientation Adventure team, overseeing logistics and participating as a chaperone for many years. She won the Davis Award for Excellence in Teaching in 20102011.
Lucy Hoffman has worked in the Business Office at Episcopal and is retiring after 19 years. She maintained an administrative role in the “yellow house” and was a team player who could be found throughout campus assisting in many capacities. “We are grateful for her service to the ESJ community,” said Stephanie Brown, Comptroller.
Sally Russo has taught at Episcopal for 20 years and chaired the Science Department for eight years. She taught both biology and chemistry during her time at Episcopal, including both AP classes. In her final year of teaching, she modeled life-long learning for her students by pioneering an online course for AP Chemistry. She won the Davis Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2008-2009. ESJ
| 37 |
2021
Four special awards were presented to sixth grade students: Helen Eyrick, Head of School Award; Gavin Bransford, St. Mark’s Award; Louisa Holyer, Rector’s Award; and Max Kovacocy, Board of Regents Merit Award.
6th Grade Class Cora Nancy Anderson Carson Anthony Bechan Gavin Benjamin Bransford William B. Cassady Emery Rae Duffy Helen Tucker Eyrick Mary Carol Eyrick Aubrey Michael Fellows Luke Brinton Graham Louisa Bentley Holyer Alaïa Grace Lucie Jeannin Margaret Grace Kidd Jake Matthew Kovacocy Max Joseph Kovacocy Marilyn Rees Longmire Phillip Charles Luschen Robert Patrick McAfee Marley Elizabeth Moret Lily Katherine Pennington William Simpson Rachels James Maddox Racine Walker Palmer Richards Dylan Michael Roberts Kailyn Paige Ryals
ESJ
| 39 |
2021
Second Grade Bike Rodeo
A longtime tradition on the St. Mark’s Campus, the Second Grade Bike Rodeo is held annually for students to learn bicycle safety, road rules, and proper riding technique. Once in third grade, students are allowed (and encouraged if it is possible) to ride their bikes to and from school. On Friday, May 14, the morning began with a briefing from two JSO officers who explained to students how important it is to wear a helmet properly, hand signals, and how to ride at an intersection. Mark Fetzer, from Lakeshore Bicycles, put every student’s bicycle through a thorough safety check to make sure it was in proper order and the tires were inflated. Students then rotated through a series of obstacle courses to work on their riding skills.
High School Musical, Jr.
The spotlight was on our fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students with the anticipated release of their pre-recorded spring musical, High School Musical, Jr,. Based on the smash hit movie musical, High School Musical, the show’s infectious, danceable songs engaged the entire St. Mark’s Campus community. Before spring break, students performed grade level songs and lines in front of a live, socially distanced audience of parents. In addition, they spent several days recording the entire musical, scene by scene, so that it could be produced into a recorded show for family and friends. Sixth graders led the show and let their talents shine with solo singing performances, speaking parts, and choreography.
Third Grade Florida Day
From Tinkerbell and Ponce de Leon to an astronaut and Lilly Pulitzer, third grade students brought 508 years of Florida history to life with their annual Florida Day Celebration on Thursday, April 29, in the Lori Schiavone Commons. Every student proudly took center stage in front of a live audience of parents, dressed as historical figures to inform and entertain the audience with their knowledge. Following the performance, students became a living-history museum by presenting their County Shoebox Parade and dioramas of forts and historical places throughout Florida.
ESJ
| 43 |
2021
World Peace Games Fourth and fifth graders launched themselves into a simulated game of war, conflict, and crisis with the World Peace Games during the week of April 26. During the game, students were faced with a four-level plexiglass game board representing underground, land, sea, air, and outer space. Divided into fictitious nations, every student was given a role, including a Prime Minister, a Cabinet Member, an Arms Dealer, a Secretary General of the United Nations, a Saboteur, and a Weather God and Goddess (who also controls the stock market). To achieve world peace, students negotiated and resolved their way through many crises (including climate change, chemical warfare, refugees, religious conflict, and tsunamis) to achieve global prosperity.
6th Grade Class Lee Elizabeth Bowles
Grade 6 Plaque Awards: Rector’s Award – Aubrey Clark Head of Lower School Award – Tatiana Burgess
Tatiana Burgess Aubrey Stewart Clark Braden Dane Crawford Lucas Alonso Kuchler Lacey Elisabethe Reed Katie Abigail Robbins
ESJ
| 51 |
2021
Easter Parade
The Beaches Campus welcomed families on campus April 1 for an Easter parade and celebration. Post-parade celebrations included a Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 Easter egg hunt on the playground and enriching Easter-themed activities in the classrooms throughout the day.
Beaches Campus grandparents were honored and appreciated during a special This annual event is an opportunity to treasure the connection shared between students and their grandparents. Students also emailed videos to their grandparents that included classroom tours, songs, readings, or a story.
GRANDPARENTS’ DAY
Grandparents’ Day Chapel on April 28.
Challenge Day
On April 30, students enjoyed a fun-filled Challenge Day, an end of school year tradition on the Beaches Campus. Midge Lilly and Kayla Durden put on an exceptional activity-based field course that students rotated through, participating in obstacles and games. Challenge Day gives students the chance to celebrate the end of the school year with fun activities, show class pride, and spend a day being active.
ESJ
| 55 |
2021
Rollin’ Into Summer Bike Parade
On May 18, bikes, scooters, skateboards, and wagons lined the parade route in front of Stormes Hall to celebrate the last week of school. The bike parade included themes from U.S.A / Red, White and Blue to Under The Sea. The bikers pedaled to all the summer favorite songs while their family and friends cheered.
Save the Date
BEACH BASH March 18, 2022
The 2022 Beach Bash (formerly Beaches Campus Parent Social) will be held on Friday,
MIDGE LILLY RETIRES
March 18. Be sure to check social media and the Episcopal
After 35 Year Career
Insider for additional
Midge Lilly, Beaches Campus movement teacher,
information.
retired after 35 years in the teaching profession, with 18 years at the Beaches Campus. Her commitment to
Interested in joining
many years of service is commendable, as well as her keen awareness of each of her students’ needs. Midge
the Beach Bash
also understands the joys of childhood. Upon entering
Committee? Please
her class, the atmosphere is full of life, learning,
email Ashley Davis,
and laughter. As a teacher, Midge is creative, fun,
Director of Marketing and Development at davisa@esj.org.
and energetic. If you were to ask a Beaches student what their favorite class has been, there is a good chance that the reply will be Movement, and that is all because of “Ms. Lilly.”
ESJ
| 57 |
2021
Signing Day
IN CONFERENCE SPORTS Twenty-seven members of the Class of 2021 signed to play a sport at the collegiate level this year, the largest number of senior commitments in the school’s history. Members of the Class of 2021 will play 12 sports at 21 different schools.
“This is an outstanding graduating class, and we are thankful for all of the contributions our seniors have made during their athletic careers at Episcopal,” said Andy Kidd ‘99, Director of Athletics. “We are exceptionally proud of the number of seniors who will continue their athletic careers in their chosen sport at the collegiate level, and look forward to cheering them on at their respective colleges.”
Baseball Clayton Hodges – Jacksonville University Dillon Haines – Stetson University Brogan Napier – University of Central Florida Layton Perry – Jacksonville University Football Nick Elksnis – University of Florida Tucker Tomberlin – Stetson University Jack Bogan – Davidson College CJ Tremble – University of Pennsylvania
Softball Kami Eppley – Stetson University Maddie Latta – Yale University Swimming Julian Smith – University of Florida Mary Kate Kelley – University of Florida Scott Haney – Georgia Institute of Technology Grant Himes – Swarthmore College Tennis Justin Bobo – Rhodes College
Lacrosse Mia Carter – Flagler College Winnie Pajcic – Sewanee: The University of the South
Cross Country/Track and Field/Triathlon Sabrina Wingert – University of South Florida Beach Volleyball Jordan Cooper – University of North Florida
Girls Soccer Abigail Jones – Ave Maria University Julia Kato – American University
Volleyball Cate Hale – Montreat College
Boys Soccer Mitchell Fenton – Rhodes College
Wrestling Joe Jackson – Roanoke College Noah Meyer – Roanoke College
Rowing Emilee Podvia – Rollins College Cooper Richart – Rollins College ESJ
| 63 |
2021
The Eagles finished the season with a 23-5 record, the district championship, the regional championship, and as a state semifinalist, before falling to Windermere Prep 0-4 in the state final four on May 19. “Unfortunately, we came up short at the state tournament in Clermont but it was an amazing journey with 19 girls that gave their all. We are hopeful that our 16 returners come back with the desire to get back there and bring home a state title next year!” Coach Eppley said.
flowing in for the softball program. Maddie Latta was named News4Jax’s player of the year for Northeast Florida, Kami Eppley was named MVP of the Florida Athletic Coaches Association All Star Game, and Coach Eppley was third in the Florida Dairy Farmers Coach of the Year statewide voting. In addition, Coach Eppley was named the 2021 recipient of Episcopal’s Varsity level John Ryan Excellence in Coaching Award. Congratulations on an amazing season, Eagles!
As one might expect after such a successful season, the postseason accolades are
ESJ
| 69 |
2021
“UPLIFT,” THE SPRING CHORAL CONCERT, was held April 27 in the Deming Theatre. “Each song was purposefully selected for its relevance to our lives today and what we’ve been through this year. We were going to help each other through tough times in ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water.’ We didn’t know we would get to sing again, but we were reminded that we can in ‘Everlasting Melody.’ We were going to do our part to make the world better in ‘Be A Light.’ We were going to rely on God to be our strength in ‘My Soul’s Been Anchored in the Lord’ and ‘My Shepherd Will Supply My Need.’ Music and singing was something that got us through,” shared Carolyn Tuttle ‘03, Director of Choral Studies. Honors, Concert, and Middle School Chorales, Treble Ensemble, and Men’s Ensemble performed.
ESJ
| 71 |
2021
Jane Austen described her title character, Emma, as “spoiled, headstrong, and self-satisfied” with “very little to distress or vex her.” I think society would sum that up as a “teenager.” But, we faculty here at Episcopal know better. These students have the weight of the world on their shoulders and they’re trying to make it through the day without letting the bottom fall out from under them, just like the rest of us. The best part about my job is that I get to watch them walk through the door, set their worries aside, and just be kids. I get to see them laugh, make new friends, push themselves outside their comfort zones, and accomplish unimaginable feats. With Emma, we were able to do all of those things, and have some fun! With a packed house on opening night and sold out (socially-distanced, masked) performances the following three days, my students were able to perform on the Munnerlyn stage in front of a live audience for the first time in a year. Emma was the perfect show for our first big stage production post-COVID - bright and colorful, joyful, and humorous -- and all of that showed in the students’ performances!
ESJ
| 73 |
2021
ESJ
| 79 |
2021
ALUMNI WEEKEND
ESJ
| 80 |
2021
ESJ
| 81 |
2021
ALUMNI WEEKEND
ESJ
| 82 |
2021
SAVE THE DATE HOMECOMING IS OCTOBER 22 Go Eagles!
ALUMNI
ESJ
| 83 |
2021
ALUMNI EVENTS
VIRTUAL HAPPIEST OF HAPPY HOURS WITH SAM MOSS, APRIL 16
LADY ALUMNI SERVICE DAY, APRIL 24 Episcopal alumnae gathered on April 24 at the Peace of Heart Community (POH) in Ponte Vedra. This home, garden, and farm serves young adults with autism and provides a safe, unique, and nearly self-sustaining property. Alumnae enjoyed working outside, getting to know each other better, and taking a tour of the farm. Episcopal’s Lady Alumni group is excited to explore additional opportunities with POH. Dr. Howard Groshell ’81, co-founder and owner of the property, welcomes volunteers to help in the garden. There is a produce market on Saturday mornings and more information can be found at POHC.org. Thank you to Lady Alumni Committee Co-Chairs Ashley Helmick Howard ’07 and Deanna Thornton Lombardo ’10 for their leadership and service.
More than 100 alumni caught up with beloved former faculty member Sam Moss during a virtual happy hour on Friday, April 16. Sam served on the founding faculty at Episcopal until 1982 and served in many positions: English instructor, Form Advisor, Dean of Students, Dean of Discipline, and Dean of College Counseling. In 1982 Sam returned to his alma mater, Darlington School in Rome, Georgia, where he has served as the Dean of College Guidance for nearly forty years. Sam shared highlights and memories from his time at Episcopal and updates about his impressive career in education. Thank you, Sam! ESJ
| 84 |
2021
YOUNG ALUMNI HAPPY HOUR, MAY 20 Young Alumni gathered in the rooftop biergarten at Intuition on Thursday, May 20, for their annual happy hour event. A great time was had by all! In 2016, the Alumni Board established the Young Alumni Committee in an effort to provide additional support for young alumni events and initiatives. This group focuses on engaging alumni who graduated within the past 15 years. Thanks to Young Alumni Committee Co-Chairs Tracy Thompson ’12 and Nick Walker ’10 for leading Episcopal’s young alumni efforts. Save the date - the third annual young alumni golf tournament is August 15. Details to follow!
ESJ
| 85 |
2021
Cooper Lindsey ’21 and Wade Lindsey ’89
Ted Miller ’87 and Evelyn Miller ’21
Annie Miller ’21 and Nathan Miller ’88
Jake Murphy ’21, Niels Murphy ’88, and Connor Murphy ’19
Curry Pajcic Jr. ’19, Winnie Pajcic ’21,
Todd Ogletree ’88 and Katie Ogletree ’21
Daley Pajcic ’16, and Curry Pajcic Sr. ’87
ESJ
| 87 |
2021
registered 501(c)(3), believes in building up the Church through a fresh discovery of God’s Word and Spirit. The organization produces resources to shape hearts and minds around the patterns of Christ while strengthening Christian community. To learn more please visit: www.biblestudymedia. com.
relationships. Jennifer, a graduate of the University of North Florida, serves as a board member for the Center for Children’s Rights and an affiliate member of the Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association. She joined Bank of the Ozarks OZK in 2019. Jennifer is a member of the ESJ Alumni Board.
1990
1994
Jennifer Stopiak Hayes was named Regional Executive for South Georgia/North Florida at Bank OZK earlier this year. Jennifer will lead Bank OZK’s community banking team members in South Georgia and North Florida with a focus on business development and growing client
John Regan married Amanda Brownell on May 15, 2021.
1998 Chaz Phillips and his wife Devon welcomed daughter Paloma Isobel on November 10, 2020. Chaz is a Commander in the U.S. Navy. He is currently stationed in Groton, Connecticut,
where he is in command of the submarine USS Vermont.
1999 Josh Zachariah joined the firm Goodwin Procter LLP in December as a partner in their mergers and acquisitions practice and is based in Boston. Prior to joining Goodwin, Josh worked at Kirkland and Skadden Arps. He handles all mergers and acquisition matters for public company and private equity clients, including domestic and cross-border acquisitions and dispositions, joint ventures, strategic investments, SPAC transactions, and takeprivates. He also advises companies and their boards of directors in connection with corporate governance and shareholder activism matters.
Jennifer Stopiak Hayes ’90
Josh Zachariah ’99
John Regan ’94 ESJ
Chaz Phillips ’98
| 91 |
2021
Dinah Stephens completed her master’s degree in management in June from the University of Florida’s Hough Business School and moved to New York City to work with GuidePoint as an associate. Tyler Armstrong married Sarah Cumella on March 20 at The Club Continental. The high school sweethearts started dating at the end of their senior year at Episcopal and the rest is history! Tyler graduated from The University of Florida and is currently a credit analyst at Macquarie Group. Sarah graduated from Auburn University and is an Assistant Store Manager with Kohl’s. The two live in Fernandina Beach and are enjoying their lives as newlyweds.
2017 Grace Chepenik is earning a bachelor’s degree in fine arts in painting and glassblowing from the University of Miami. She writes “My love for art was nurtured at Episcopal and led me to pursue a career in the arts. After graduating from Episcopal, I discovered an inspiring and colorful community of artists in Miami. I began live
painting at different local speakeasies and pop-up art shows. I have also been in three shows for different Art Basel events. In Sorrento, Italy, I had an internship with SyArt, a local gallery. I have traveled to New York for specific glass techniques: Painting on Glass with Cappy Thompson and Solid Sculpting with Netflix’s’ Blown Away winner, Deborah Czeresko. I was blessed to take private glass blowing lessons in Murano, Italy, and assist with tourist demonstrations at a local studio. I have studied figure oil painting in Rome and taken workshops across the United States. These incredible experiences and schooling will forever shape me as an artist and a person. I can confidently say that Episcopal helped me start my journey on the path to pursue a career in art. Thank you for everything.”
Tyler Armstrong and Sarah Cumella ‘16 ESJ
| 95 |
2021
Annie Feeley graduated in May from Texas Christian University with a degree in speech and language pathology. She will attend the University of Texas in the fall of 2021 to pursue her doctorate in audiology. Caroline Still graduated from the University of Virginia with double majors in global security and justice and French, and double minors in leadership and public policy and history. She graduated with highest honors in all degrees, Phi Beta Kappa, an Echols Scholar, and a member of the Raven Society (a university honor society). She will be working with the Department of Defense and the National Security Innovation Network as a data/policy analyst. Christian Rickey is currently serving in the United States Air Force and is stationed at Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina.
Christian Rickey ‘17
MICHAEL G. TANNER, ’71, BECOMES PRESIDENT OF THE FLORIDA BAR “To create leaders through sound liberal arts learning synthesized with strong Christian concepts, history, ethics, and worship coupled with athletics.” Mission Statement, Committee of 100, The Report of the Planning Group for Episcopal High School of Jacksonville, Florida, February 1966
The founders of our school believed that a life of faith could produce great minds and effective leaders. They would see their vision clearly in Michael G. Tanner ’71 who is now president of The Florida Bar, the arm of the Michael G. Tanner by Mark Wallheiser Florida Supreme Court that regulates the state’s legal profession. He is the first ESJ graduate to lead the third largest bar in the country that works to protect the public, pursue justice, and promote professionalism among its 109,643 members. As a volunteer leader, Mike has worked with other ESJ graduates to advocate for the profession, including Florida Bar staff communications director Francine Andia Walker, ’77. She asked Mike about his memories of early days on the brand-new campus and how ESJ affected his life and leadership skills.
impression on me: Sam Moss, Bob Dobson, Mel Hazen, Les McLean and Beeler Brush to name a few. Each one opened my eyes to the possibilities of what life could be for me.
What years were you at Episcopal? 1967-1971 Why did you go to school at Episcopal? My parents wanted me to have the best education possible in Jacksonville and believed Episcopal offered that. What’s one memory you have of the campus? That on my first day in September 1967 the campus consisted of two buildings – the M building and the Gym – surrounded by a sea of mud because no landscaping had been done yet. The pond was completely overgrown with weeds. Obviously, the campus has changed immensely and is very beautiful now. What’s one memory you have of student life? Soccer practice every day in the last period in the afternoon.
How did Episcopal prepare you to be a lawyer? I learned the fundamentals of good writing and good study habits. What’s your advice for current students? Pursue what really interests you, not what anybody else wants you to pursue, and aim higher than your comfort zone. What’s your advice for those who are interested in practicing law? If you decide to study law, make sure you are doing it for the right reason – a desire to serve the public.
Did you have a favorite teacher? Hard to say I had a favorite. I had many excellent teachers who made a lasting positive ESJ
What was your favorite subject? Math, biology and history, although I liked English very much too.
| 97 |
2021
The Acosta-Schmidt House was built in the 1880s. In 1911 the residence was purchased by St. Elmo W. Acosta, a Jacksonville businessman and City Council member. The school purchased the property in 1966. The building served many uses over the years, including as a fine arts center and photography studio. In addition to serving on the Planning Group which founded Episcopal, Gert Schmidt was instrumental in the formation of the school’s endowment and served on the Foundation Board for decades. His lifelong advocacy for education and his service to Episcopal
made adding “Schmidt” to the Acosta House a natural fit for the offices which support philanthropy and alumni relations. Jack Schmidt ‘70 spoke about his father’s journey from a little town in Germany to his career in hotel management and eventually managing a local television station, as well as his role as a beloved grandfather and patriarch of the Schmidt family. His love for Episcopal, which he supported annually from its founding until his death, made the Acosta-Schmidt naming a fitting tribute. “Dad would be very pleased with this,” said Jack.
The dedication plaque and a photo of Gert Schmidt at the opening of Jacksonville Episcopal High School.
The Rev. Adam Greene, Head of School, Jack Schmidt ’70, and Bobby Schmidt ’78 cut the ribbon on the newly named Acosta-Schmidt House.
ESJ
| 107 |
2021
KRISTA GRABHER WINS GUARDIAN AWARD, NOMINATED BY TAYLOR WELLS ’21 At Senior Honors Convocation on May 14, Krista Grabher, English instructor and Varsity Girls Lacrosse Coach, received the Guardian Award. She was nominated by Taylor Wells ’21.
KRISTA GRABHER
In her nomination Taylor wrote “Ms. Grabher is a natural encourager. Even within casual conversation with her, you can tell that she genuinely cares about the success of her students and athletes. She doesn’t settle for anything less than what she knows you’re capable of, and although I was never one of her students or athletes, this has directly pushed me to strive to be the best person I can be, which I think is a direct reflection of the tenacious Gator lacrosse player she once was. She encouraged me to use my voice in a way that I could never have imagined, which is evident in the establishment of the school’s first ever Black Student Union. She fosters an environment of love and acceptance. I remember my earlier years at Episcopal being hard to get through. Fitting in was harder being a minority here, and I struggled to find a place where I felt like I truly belonged. At the end of my junior year, I remember my mom asking if I wished I had changed schools. I paused and I thought about it. And I said to myself, ‘Well, if I had left, I would have never met Ms. G., would’ve never figured out that her room and her presence would be the place I felt like I belonged.’ What a gift I would’ve missed out on if I had left! She is a gift. And sometimes I don’t think she realizes it. She deserves to know, she deserves to realize what a gift she is to the world around her.”
The Guardian Award was established in 1999 by Mr. and Mrs. William L. Dahl. Seniors are given the opportunity to write an essay about a faculty member who has been a role model for them during their years at Episcopal and has helped them understand how important these guardians are.The senior who writes the winning nomination receives a $1,500 college scholarship and the Guardian Award recipient also receives a $1,500 cash award. ESJ
| 109 |
2021
Val Bow ’79 was nominated for being unequivocally committed to her students. Her peers wrote that every assignment, every project, every unit of study springs from a desire to equip her young charges to be accepting, thinking, and compassionate young adults. She educates and nurtures them so they feel accepted and welcome. She finds ways to bring the learning to life. For example, not satisfied with just watching The Social Dilemma, she asked her students (with parental permission) to give up their cell phones for 24 hours and reflect on their experience. During her free periods she is most likely participating in a webinar or listening to a podcast. Besides her classroom load, Val clearly embraces all opportunities she has to reach students. She partners with colleagues to develop and share content that makes Advisory meaningful, showing that even outside the classroom and during less structured times of the day, impactful learning happens.
VAL BOW ‘79
Established in 1992 by Dan and the late Mary Lou Davis, the Davis Awards for Excellence in Teaching are presented each year to selected Episcopal School of Jacksonville teachers who personify quality in their teaching and in their influence on student learning; who consistently and unselfishly go above and beyond normal expectations of time, energy and devotion in working with students; who demonstrate the rare ability to motivate students to higher and higher levels of achievement; and who have consistently made use of opportunities for continuing education to improve themselves professionally. This award is intended to inspire all Episcopal teachers to pursue uncompromising excellence and caring in the classroom. ESJ
| 111 |
2021