2021-2022 GAC TODAY Magazine

CONTRIBUTORSPRODUCTION

Dr. Scott Harsh Orpheus

PHOTOGRAPHY

DESIGN

PRINTING

Our hope is that you would be enriched by the vignettes of campus life and be inspired by the many great feats of our students, teachers, and alumni. We are excited about the future these individuals will help to shape, and are thrilled to share their stories with you.

Mario Lozano

THE NEW LANDSCAPE

Letter om the President

reater Atlanta Christian School is a place that never stands still. We can’t. It’s in our DNA, and it’s what our students need from us.

Over the past 18 months, all schools had to adopt schools said, “Let’s turn the page on COVID-19 and go back to our older model”. GAC chose instead to take what we learned and become better. Workplaces are not moving backward. Education needs to move forward as well to fully prepare students for their future. I am excited about where GAC is headed!

Over the past year, GAC has taken an incredible leap forward. The vibrancy and engagement in our face-to-face classes have never been stronger. We believe in a personalized learning experience for each student, and that belief drove us to adopt new learning modalities for our students. GAC Sync and Ethos options, which you’ll read about in the pages to come, provide important new avenues for learning and engagement. Our faculty are pushing the boundaries of education, and our students are thriving because of it!

As a community, we’ve chosen to focus on joy and hope this school year. Our by the power of the Holy Spirit.” It has been such a blessing to see our students, teachers, and families live out this theme in ways that spread hope on our campus and well beyond.

The GAC campus is alive with activity every day. We are so grateful our students are experiencing live chapels, spiritual retreats, mission trips, learning excursions, and the fullness of student life again. We have loved welcoming parents back on campus as volunteers, lunch guests for special seminars, weekly Bible studies, and more. We have been intentionally focused on engagement for our entire community, not simply to get back the things we enjoyed before the pandemic, but to take community engagement forward with a greater purpose.

In this issue of GAC Today, we highlight perspectives from leaders across the school about the direction of our programs, how we are improving the learning model for students, our commitment to growing a resilient faith, and how the GAC community is modeling joy and hope. You will see QR codes designed for you to scan and interact with the continuations of articles and dynamic digital content. We are proud of all that our community has overcome. May you be inspired by all the ways God is moving across our campus and through our Thankscommunity.foryour partnership.

Dr. Scott Harsh, Ed.D. GAC President

The New Landscape of Education

Education is constantly moving forward, and so is GAC.

We live in a world that is rapidly evolving due to advancements in technology. In days past,

have access to computers within the palm of our hands. Technology has transformed from the days of dial-up internet to Google Fiber. As technology use has grown, so have academic avenues to deliver information to students. At GAC, we recognize that students in today’s society are unlike students from past generations. Students are digital natives, having grown up with forms of technology. Over the past two years, technology use for students and working adults has grown even more. “Through the pandemic, we realized the world is changing—the way we work will never be the same, and how we learn should not be the same,” explains Dr. Josh Thomason, Vice President of Finance at GAC learning opportunities for their children to prepare them for college and new, ever-changing work environments. Being a school that innovative ways to incorporate technology into the academic world.

The Transformation of Teaching

It’s no surprise that the world has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic began in the Spring of 2020. At GAC, we are proud to say that our teachers have adapted to the changes in education to give our students the best experience possible, whether in the classroom or as a virtual student. “Over the Summer of 2020, GAC added advanced technology to our classrooms. Teachers worked diligently to learn the new technology and how to enhance the virtual learning experience for each student,” said Dr. Betty Morris, Director of Academics and Teacher Growth.

Shane Woodward, High School Principal, explains, “Because the DNA of who we are is to be innovative and push the envelope, our community expected this innovation. It has not been easy, there are still growing pains, but there have been so many creative solutions that have come out of it.”

Online Education Moves Forward

We have realized at GAC that online learning is effective for many students. Sometimes, students who engage in online learning can outperform the traditional face-to-face student.

“When I was a student, I can recall sitting in my High School Trigonometry class; I misunderstood a foundational concept taught

the next three days. In the digital setting, this problem goes away; students never have to worry if they miss something a teacher says - they pause, rewind, and watch again. And, they still have access to a teacher if they seek additional clarity...interestingly, if digital learning is designed correctly, less time is spent delivering content (e.g., lecturing), allowing for enhanced active learning opportunities and greater social interactions with a teacher and peers.” - Dr. Josh Thomason, Vice President of Finance and Executive Director of the Ethos School

Modalities of Education at GAC

Over the past three years, GAC has introduced new forms of technology into the classroom. These modalities allow students to complete classwork either face-to-face, virtually, or a hybrid of both.

GAC Sync

Synchronous Learning, also known as “GAC Sync,” is a new learning initiative that began during the 2020-2021 school year at Greater Atlanta Christian School. GAC Sync is a learning modality offered to our students who regularly attend GAC in person. If a student cannot attend class in person due to illness or other reasons, they can utilize the Sync platform to log in and virtually attend their classes in real-time. These remote students can still see and interact with their teachers and peers as if they were physically present.

high caliber online education is the way to make that possible. With online educational opportunities, families can be with each other more often, and students can pursue their passions and dreams outside of their studies. As education modalities continue to evolve, GAC will remain one of the leaders paving the way.

GAC Sync provides this live interactive experience using adaptive, all-in-one monitors that utilize AI technology with sixteen smartfocus-audio microphones and a 4K camera that tracks each speaker and face. Additionally, the class is automatically recorded for later reference by the student. GAC Sync offers families ongoing class collaboration and content sharing. This learning modality positions GAC as a front-runner in innovative education.

Ethos School

In 2017, GAC launched its online school, called Ethos School (Ethos). Founded with a desire to foster an engaging, relational,

context, Ethos now serves nearly 600 students from across the globe, with over 100 courses available for grades 4-12. Students enrolled in online courses at Ethos School develop crucial online learning skills. All classes and teachers maintain the same academic excellence and faith-infused curriculum of the GAC community. Ethos students can also collaborate and learn with peers from other cultures, further preparing them for the global workforce. They extracurricular activities. Ethos courses are asynchronous, allowing students to view the material and complete their coursework any time that works in their schedule. Some students use Ethos courses to replace traditional courses during the day to allow sports or arts training to further their personal passions. The success of the Ethos School model is being proven through positive testing performance, productive relationships between teachers and students, and the outcomes of our students.

GAC Hybrid

In collaboration with our online school, Ethos, GAC offers a dynamic hybrid program designed to meet the needs of

students who are pursuing their passion at the elite level. Students create a tailored schedule that combines in-person classes with our online platform, Ethos School. Half-days on campus allow students to be connected to the GAC community. They become an integral part of the student body and can engage in every possible activity, from academic teams to homecoming dances to musical theater. With access to a diverse student body, expansive co-curricular opportunities, high-quality teachers, and state-of-the-art campus facilities, students can enjoy a rich school experience from a well-recognized educational institution with a strong collegiate reputation that prepares them for greater opportunities in college and beyond.

Key to Success: Stellar Faculty

We recognize that a critical factor in the future success of GAC utilizing technology in education will always be our dedicated teachers. We are grateful for their diligence and dedication to continuous growth in their practice. We do not take this for granted. Thanks to our stellar faculty, we know that academic excellence in education will remain the same whether a class is in person or virtual. There is no doubt that the advancements in technology in education have enhanced the learning experience for students and will continue to transform academics moving forward.

Modalities of Education at GAC

Dr. Josh Thomason, VP of at and of the

Responsive and Stable Leadership

When it comes to a crisis like COVID-19, stable and responsive leadership is paramount.

With only three presidents in over 50 years of GAC’s existence, stability has been central to our ability to respond effectively. We have discovered that asking for feedback is essential to preserving a positive and supportive school climate. Whether through parent surveys, faculty and staff focus groups, or task forces for problem solving, leadership at GAC strives to be responsive to the needs of the school-wide community.

In order to be impactful, responsiveness and stability are necessary at every level. At GAC, faculty and staff tenure regularly spans for decades. Over the past two years, understanding how each student was responding to the pandemic has become a part of the planning

and teaching process. Responsive decisions in the classroom are made as teachers observe, analyze, and assess how students respond to teaching, recognizing that we are teaching the student, not the curriculum.

Our leaders also remember that Jesus promised us an advocate to teach and remind us of God’s truth. GAC leaders are actively pursuing God’s plan for GAC.

87% of GAC parents gave an ‘A’ to GAC’s overall response to the pandemic, compared to 71% nationwide that gave their school an ‘A’. This is according to a nationwide survey conducted by Independent School Management of 16,000 independent school parents.

Enrollment has been up more than 20% since Spring 2020, and many families say they made the move due to GAC’s forward-thinking and agile response to the pandemic.

Ministry Milestones

From Your Academic Leaders

Dr. Betty Morris, Director of Academics and Teacher Growth

Faith, courage, wisdom, commitment to our mission, and perhaps previously untested resilience emerged stronger than ever in each teacher and student over the last few years.

Overwhelming passion for educating each student led the decisions that ensued. The learning environment became different – requiring different teaching skills, planning, and connection to students. Teachers adapted by utilizing different teaching strategies than in just a face-to-face learning environment.

Mr. Shane Woodward, High School Principal

As challenging as it was, the pandemic made us rethink the foundation of what we do. It sounds massive because it was. It challenged us to ask, “What does it mean to be engaged in class? What does it mean to assess students? What does it mean to actually know something?”

and something we did during that time. We’re still carrying those conversations and solutions into now.

The next 5-10 years will continue to push us in directions that we never thought possible in education. For us, it’s how do we not lose relationships in the midst of it? We will continue to prioritize connection and getting to know students personally, leveraging the best parts of who we are.

Mr. TJ Dixon, Middle School Principal

I think we rose to the occasion by providing choice and options for our families. With the ability to choose in-person learning or GAC Sync on a daily basis, our community was able to make decisions that met their needs and comfort levels. These options helped to minimize both student absences and missed class time. I think we learned that GAC Sync is a viable option and that our teachers have demonstrated the ability to develop an entirely new skill set when it comes to teaching. We will continue to provide GAC Sync and I believe that this option for students truly sets us apart as a school.

Mrs. Rhonda Helms, Lower School Principal

We were doing a really great job before but now we’re even more intentional than ever on social-emotional well being. The pandemic brought on a lot of great guidance lessons as well as one-on-one and small-group counseling. We found a common theme woven throughout the year: God is the author of our story. He already knows the ending.

Taking a look at where we’ve been and where we’re going.

10 Things We’re Keeping from COVID-19

Over 30 GAC faculty members weigh in on the positive impacts the pandemic had on education

As schools move forward into a post-pandemic reality, GAC has intentionally looked for ways to regain a sense of normalcy in as many areas as possible. However, we also can not overlook the fact that the pandemic has been a catalyst for innovation. Many of the top ten things were already priorities at GAC, but were found to be indispensable during the pandemic.

“Coming out of the pandemic has broadened the educational experience for each student and teacher. Education has not been limited by the pandemic, it has expanded beyond belief in ways we could not have imagined before 2020.” - Dr. Betty Morris, Director of Academics and Teacher Growth.

We asked over 30 GAC faculty members to weigh in on the topic. Here are the top 10 things that educators at GAC feel were a positive result of COVID-19’s impact on education.

1. Personalized Education Experience

Every student has a unique story. Differentiated instruction has been a priority at GAC for many years but we are now keenly aware of educating students where they are. In the future of education, a cookie-cutter approach is no longer an option.

2. Expertise with Essential Technology

If they were not already experts before, all of our teachers could now teach a course on instructional technology in the classroom.

Intelligence technology, digital document cameras, digital whiteboards, and graphics tablets, just to name a few. All lessons are recorded for students to refer back to later. Regular whiteboards have essentially become obsolete. Students are gaining essential skills, and classes are now more accessible than ever to all students.

3. More Intentional Communication

Teachers set clearer expectations and digital work allows for more immediate feedback. “Interactions with students are more frequent and intentional”, says Leigh Lowman, Middle School English Teacher. Administrators have increased transparency with parents, students, and teachers. Video communication has become the norm in order to convey emotion. Listening with empathy is vital at every level and in every department.

4. Emphasis on Parent/Teacher Relationships

“COVID-19 emphasized and deepened our appreciation for families and our connection with them.”

- Rhonda Helms, Lower School Principal

Parents continue to be an essential part of a students’ educational journey. Teachers know this now more than ever. Parents have a better understanding of classroom expectations and teacher roles after seeing a class on our synchronous classroom platform, GAC Sync. Even busy parents are able to stay connected through video conferencing with teachers and live-stream performances.

Although we are overjoyed that many in-person volunteers have returned to campus, even virtual volunteer opportunities build relationships. For example, adding a Zoom option to our Lower School Mystery Reader tradition has allowed for participation from grandparents who are out of state and parents who could not take extended time off of work.

5. Ownership of Learning

When students are given choices, they are more likely to take ownership of their learning. Whether it be in learning style, class modality, project topic, or course selection, we have learned that passions or express their learning in a way that is meaningful to them.

“I am more academically responsive to my students. Because my curriculum consumables and assessments are online now, students have the option to use the traditional materials (on paper) or they can use digital. This is giving my students more ownership of their learning styles.” - Ansley Keiser, 5th Grade Teacher

Post-pandemic, when provided with the choice to attend school virtually via GAC Sync or in-person on campus, about 5-10% choose GAC Sync on a given day. Absences are also at a record-breaking low school-wide, which shows us that students want to be on campus but are utilizing GAC Sync when they need to.

I AM MORE ACADEMICALLY RESPONSIVE TO MY STUDENTS. BECAUSE MY CURRICULUM CONSUMABLES AND ASSESSMENTS ARE ONLINE NOW, STUDENTS HAVE THE OPTION TO USE THE TRADITIONAL MATERIALS (ON PAPER) OR THEY CAN USE DIGITAL. THIS IS GIVING MY STUDENTS MORE OWNERSHIP OF THEIR LEARNING STYLES.

Ansley Keiser, 5th Grade Teacher

6. Value for Engaging and Collaborative Learning

Undeniably, we all gained a new appreciation for in-person learning through the pandemic. Yet, teachers have found new ways to facilitate collaboration whether students are attending virtually or in-person. The pandemic forced us to ask, “what does it look like to be engaged in class?” and recognize that just because a student is present, it does not mean they are engaged. We are leaving solely “teaching-by-telling” behind and moving forward with engaging, hands-on experiences.

7. Broader Scope of Priorities

The pandemic closed a lot of doors but opened a lot of windows into the personal lives of our students. This helped to broaden the scope of what we prioritize during the school day. “We have all taken note of what is truly important. Spending time together, worshiping together, and interacting with each other socially are critical in our daily and weekly lives”, shares Lauren Hollier, Middle School Academic Dean. Community-wide events are being planned every month, like the Homecoming Parade and Screen on the Green. Classes take place outside in outdoor learning spaces to refresh and combat student fatigue. We are more cognizant of the social-emotional health of each student and the need to holistically prepare them for their future.

8. Increased Creativi and Professional Growth

10. Greater Appreciation for our Teachers!

“I truly believe that the public-at-large, not just parents, is more

lives.” - Billy Jones, High School Physics Teacher

We are more thankful than ever for the grit, determination, and passion of our wonderful teachers at GAC. We recognize that their devotion to serve and educate all Spartan students (both in person and via GAC Sync or Ethos) is what brings the mission of GAC to fruition. Our children’s lives and educational paths will forever be impacted by their teachers’ dedication.

pandemic strengthened this muscle and brought about increased creativity and professional growth. It presented an opportunity to look deeply at all that we are doing as a school. Teachers are curious about new ways of teaching and assessing the outcomes for each student.

9. Increased Cross-Collaboration

We have all recognized that in education, it takes a village. Thanks to our Health Team, we are physically healthier. The Community Relations Team helps teachers re-imagine events outdoors or via live-stream, and Administrators are now instructional technology coaches. We can no longer operate in silos because we know now that we are greater together.

We have all taken note of what is truly important. Spending time together, worshiping together, and interacting with each other socially are critical in our daily and weekly lives.

Lauren Hollier, Middle School Academic Dean

GAC Broadcast Team Wins State

By Evan Simmons, High School Video & Photography Teacher

Broadcast Journalism is an advanced high school course that focuses on producing “Live @ 1575”, a weekly student-run broadcast including school news, world news, sports and arts updates, feature videos, and interviews with students and faculty. Students can apply to the class after completing introductory courses in either Video Production or Journalism, or by submitting a portfolio of video work completed outside of class. Each student in the class can choose to focus

participate in a combination of both, depending on their interest and experience. Students then continue to develop their skills through creating a variety of projects and participating in operating the weekly broadcast.

Students on the Live @ 1575 crew work in a fast-paced, creative environment and move quickly to produce relevant content on strict deadlines. Though pandemic safety forced the production to

pivot to an online live stream without an in-person audience, the student crew still ran every production in real time, teaching them valuable skills of staying calm under pressure and adapting quickly to unexpected challenges. As a teacher, I am most proud of watching my students showcase positive aspects of their community and grow in their ability to present themselves professionally.

For the last three years, GAC has submitted student work to the Spring Awards competition hosted by the Georgia Scholastic Press Association, which is operated by the Grady College of Journalism at UGA. The competition involves a General Excellence category for high school broadcasts as a whole, as well as individual awards for

GAC Class of 2021

Academic Awards

It was an unforgettable school year. We are so proud of all the ways that our students persevered through much uncertainty. We are confident that they are stronger and more faithful because of it.

Congratulations on your many accomplishments, GAC Class of 2021!

Academic award recipients

Valedictorian Darlene Nguyen AP Scholar with Distinction National Merit Commended STAR Student

Salutatorian Parker Hallock AP Scholar with Honor National Merit Commended Scholar Athletic Award Governor’s Honors Nominee

Katharine Alsobrook Robert

Joel Lee Talia

Darlene Nguyen

AP Scholar with Distinction

Paige HudsonEvansHiggins Athlete

College Acceptances, Class of 2021

Abilene Christian University Agnes Scott College American ArizonaAppalachianUniversityStateUniversityStateUniversity-Tempe

Asbury University Auburn University Augusta University Ave Maria University Babson College Baylor BelmontUniversityUniversity

Bentley University Berklee College of Music Berry College Boston University Bryant University Bucknell University California College of the Arts Case Western Reserve University Centre CharlestonCollegeSouthern University Clark Atlanta University Clemson University Coastal Carolina University College of Charleston Colorado State University-Fort Collins Columbus State University

Concordia College at Moorhead Covenant College Drake DrexelUniversityUniversity

East Georgia State College

Elon University

Emmanuel College

Emory University (Emory College)

Emory University (Oxford College ) Fashion Institute of Technology Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Florida Atlantic University

Florida Gulf Coast University Florida International University Florida State University

Fordham University Furman University Gardner-Webb University Georgetown University Georgia College & State University

Georgia Gwinnett College

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus Georgia Southern University Georgia State University Georgia State University (Georgia State University-Perimeter College) Grand Canyon University-Traditional Campus

Hanover College Harding University High Point University Howard University Iowa State University Kennesaw State University Lafayette College Lee University Lehigh LibertyUniversityUniversity

Lipscomb University

Long Island University Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Chicago Lynn MarylandManhattanUniversityCollegeInstituteCollege of Art

Mercer MethodistUniversityUniversity Miami MiddleMichiganMichiganUniversity-OxfordStateUniversityTechnologicalUniversityGeorgiaStateUniversity

Middle Tennessee State University Middlebury College Mississippi State University Montana State University Morehouse College New Jersey Institute of Technology New York University

Niagara University

North Carolina A & T State University North Carolina State University at Raleigh Northeastern University Northwest Florida State College Oberlin College

Oglethorpe University

Ohio State University-Main Campus Ohio University-Main Campus

Ontario Tech University

Palm Beach Atlantic University Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus Pepperdine University

Piedmont University Point Loma Nazarene University Pratt PurduePresbyterianInstitute-MainCollegeUniversity-Main Campus

Reinhardt University Rhode Island School of Design

Rhodes College Rutgers University-New Brunswick Samford University

San Diego State University Savannah College of Art and Design School of the Art Institute of Chicago Seton Hall University

Shorter SouthernUniversityMethodist University

Spelman College St. John’s University-New York Stetson University

Syracuse University Temple TennesseeUniversityStateUniversity

Texas A & M University-College Station

Texas Christian University

The American University of Paris

The New School

The New School (Parsons School of Design)

The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama (University Honors Program)

The University of Arizona

The University of Tampa

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

The University of Tennessee-Martin

The University of Texas at Austin

The University of West Florida Trevecca Nazarene University Tri-County Technical College

Tufts University

Tulane University of Louisiana Union UnitedCollegeStatesMilitary Academy

University of Alabama at Birmingham University of California-Davis University of California-Irvine University of California-Los Angeles University of California-Riverside University of California-San Diego University of California-San Diego University(Engineering)ofCalifornia-Santa Barbara

University of California-Santa Barbara (College of Engineering)

University of Central Florida University of Chicago University of Colorado Boulder University of Florida University of Georgia

University of Georgia (College of Business) University of Georgia (Honors)

University of Illinois at Chicago University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign University of Iowa University of Kentucky University of Maryland-Baltimore County

University of Maryland-College Park University of Massachusetts-Amherst University of Memphis University of Miami University of Michigan-Ann Arbor University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (CBS College of Biological Scienc) University of Mississippi University of Missouri-Columbia University of North Carolina at Asheville University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (General College)

University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of North Carolina at Pembroke University of North Carolina Wilmington University of North Florida University of North Georgia University of Notre Dame University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus University of Oregon University of Pennsylvania University of Redlands University of Rochester University of San Francisco University of South Carolina-Beaufort University of South Carolina-Columbia University of South Florida-Main Campus University of Southern California University of St. Thomas (MN)

University of the Cumberlands University of Toronto University of Utah University of Vermont University of Virginia-Main Campus University of Washington-Seattle Campus University of West Georgia University of Wisconsin-Madison University of Wyoming

Utah Valley University

Valdosta State University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Engineering)

Wake Forest University

Washington and Lee University

Washington University in St Louis

Wellesley College

Western Carolina University

Western New England University Wichita State University Xavier University of Louisiana

Bold represents matriculations

Watch student-created Learning Excursions Video

A Life in the Fine Arts

Behind every performance, sculpture, and musical ensemble at GAC is this belief: the purpose of art is to honor and glorify our Creator. All things come from God, and as creations made in the image of God, we are is through this philosophy that every GAC Fine Arts class is taught. Arts experience is unique and remarkably special.

With this at the core of all we do, GAC educators teach from the perspective that art is the opportunity for God to reveal himself more fully. Our creativity is a sacred gift, an opening for God to work through us.

And in a year with COVID restrictions, our community has had to trust God and lean on him more than ever to move and work. In a moment in time where most schools were shutting down

on,” and trusted in God to make a way. If the past year has shown us anything, it’s that we serve a God who makes a way, even when the circumstances look impossible.

“We put on 63 performances when no one was doing performances.

safely. Thankfully, we have the facilities to make it happen. We wanted to

make sure that we could give our students, families, and our staff performance opportunities.” - Regan Burnett, GAC Fine Arts Director

creativity of our student body. With classes and lessons available during the school day and after school, GAC students participate in various instruction and performance opportunities. GAC has long cultivated high-caliber arts programs. Our stunning artwork on display and performances around campus makes GAC feel like a home, inspiring, and building community.

teacher practices what they teach. They’re involved in their community and actively practice their craft. These teachers are

arts professional.

Mr. Nelson Galarraga ‘99 directing the GAC Middle School Philharmonia Orchestra at the Fall Orchestra Concert in the Performing Arts Center, Artusa Hall.

WE ARE “GREATER TOGETHER” WHEN WE ENCOURAGE OUR ENSEMBLES TO SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER. OUR STUDENTS BETTER APPRECIATE THE OTHER GROUPS WHEN THEY PERFORM WITH THEM OR WATCH THEIR PERFORMANCES. WE ARE CONSISTENTLY PROMOTING PARTICIPATION IN MULTIPLE ACTIVITIES, AS WELL AS ACADEMICS, CLUBS, AND ATHLETICS.

Wally Conrath, GAC Band Director

Thecompetition!showwas

Congrats to our High School “Steel Magnolias” cast for taking home 1st place in the 2021 GHSA One Act Region competition! Becky Mason and

directed by Mrs. Kaitlyn Thames and the cast included Veronica Osbon, and Kristen Thompson.

Promises Chorus performing at the 2021 Fall Choir Concert with the amazing Dr. Robin Hensley.

GAC’s Annual Black and White Gala, Spring 2021

GAC HS performedTheatreLittle Shop of Horrors, Spring 2021.

Congratulations to our new and returning National Honors Society for Dance Arts members!

Mother and Child Sally ClassLeof 2022

Dr. Marcus Miller conducting the HS Concert Choir at the 2021 Fall Choir Concert

GAC community enjoying the 2021 outdoor Band Concert at the GAC Park.

All ReadingState Chorus

Freaky Friday

Left to Right: Ethan Chase (12th), Julia McDonnell (9th), and Aiden Daniels (10th) were accepted into the All State Reading Chorus, an elite ensemble comprising the top sight readers in the state of Georgia. They will rehearse with a nationally recognized clinician January 27-29, 2022 at the Classic Center in Athens, Georgia, with a culminating performance that Saturday. GAC had a 100% acceptance rate as all three students who auditioned from GAC passed the cut score.

In Fall 2021, GAC Fine Arts performed Freaky Friday: a new musical based on the

High School Musical Theatre division in the GA-NATS (National Association of Actress at the 2021 One Act State Competition.

GAC School of Ballet performance of “The Nutcracker”

4th Grade Veterans’ Day Performance

Pigskins & Picasso

This fall, we gathered under lights and in the beautiful fall weather for Pigskins

The event featured face painting, art classes taught by GAC visual arts teachers, a delicious dinner from Tommy Ray’s Barbecue, and other fun activities. This event encouraged students of all ages and skill levels to

Thanks to everyone who came out to make the event such a memorable evening. Go Spartans!

What Does It Mean to Compete as a Spartan?

GAC Athletics has maintained a standard of excellence throughout the history of our school. However, due to challenges of our world today, each coach, athlete, and administrator has had to endure both on and off the field. Through faith in God and the belief in trusting the process at GAC, our student athletes were still able to accomplish great feats during an unprecedented time. With 56 coaches on staff at GAC (24 of them female coaches), the GAC Athletic department strives to give our student athletes a life changing experience. A coach does not stop teaching once the final buzzer or the last horn sounds. Instead, they continue to help our players holistically grow.

In the 2020-2021 school year, it was truly a triumph to even allow our students the opportunity to compete in the sports they love. We look forward to seeing the future athletic feats, life-long memories, and spiritual development play out during the GAC Athletics’ calendar this year and for many years to come.

GAC ATHLETICS IS ABOUT DEVELOPING THE STUDENT ATHLETE. WHEN YOU’RE HERE WE WANT YOU TO DEVELOP PHYSICALLY, MENTALLY, EMOTIONALLY, SPIRITUALLY AND SOCIALLY. WE WANT TO HELP OUR STUDENT ATHLETES DO A GREAT JOB BY IMPROVING IN THEIR SKILL AND THEIR UNDERSTANDING OF THEIR SPORT SCHEME.SPECIFIC

Tim Hardy, GAC Athletic Director

“Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” – Hebrews 12:1

Training the Whole Athlete

With over 5,000 square feet of training space, The Shanil R. Naik Athletic Training Center is one of the best training facilities in Georgia. As the program has increased in popularity, we are continuing to look for new ways to grow facilities and accommodate for the high demand. Currently, some of the amenities within the facility include 10 racks, a 20-yard x 7-yard turf surface, 20 iPads for tracking data, heart rate monitors, a power plate, velocity-based technology devices, and more. Although the tools inside are impressive, the instructors that we have at GAC truly develop our student athletes.

Coach Richard Burnett serves as GAC’s Head Strength and Conditioning Coach. Since arriving at GAC from coaching at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, Coach Burnett has continued to grow as an instructor.

During his first year on campus, Coach Burnett worked under the tutelage of former GAC Head Strength and Conditioning coach, Gary Schofield. Once the reins of the program were handed over, Coach Burnett combined the lessons he learned from Coach Schofield with new philosophies.

Each Performance Training class is a unique environment in itself. The eight class periods are split by gender with each class having a wide range of participants varying in age, skill level, and athletic discipline. One class period can have students from grades ninth through twelfth grade that all play a variety of sports.

In addition, with half the class being in-season, the other half operating in off-season conditioning, and requests for sports-specific training, maintaining a baseline curriculum is not simple. To help create a consistent and cohesive training environment, Coach Burnett utilizes multiple systems that focus on making each student more athletic overall. The entire strength and conditioning coaching staff, including four female instructors, help execute these systems.

Coach Burnett utilizes the GAC Assessment System to help track the progress of our student-athletes in his classes. This system is a 14-step assessment (given twice a semester) that covers three main tenets of form, force, and function. Under the form category, students test their strength competency to see how capable they are at having controlled coordination and how repeatable that performance is. The force category tests the strength capacity and maximum strength level. Function focuses on the maximum velocity of our student athletes.

Training the Whole Athlete

The assessment system helps our students discover their own personal motivations, their progress throughout the semester, and it also identifies any individual training needs. The data from each test is collected so that students can view their progress throughout their time in the class. At the conclusion of each testing period, students will have undergone a 5-step cycle that includes character, assessment, training, experience, and recovery.

WE ALWAYS TRAIN WITH THE FUTURE IN MIND. A BIG PART OF WHY I CAME TO GAC IS BECAUSE THEY WERE DOING THINGS HERE THAT ARE MORE WASPROGRAMMATICALLYADVANCEDTHANIDOINGATTHEDIVISIONILEVEL.ITHINKWHATWEAREMOSTPROUDOFISPREPARINGOURSTUDENTSINTUITIVELYFORTHECHALLENGESAHEAD.

RICH BURNETT, STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH

Learn more about Coach Burnett and GAC Performance Training Program

Varsi Volleyball Captures their First State Title

With both a talented and an experienced roster returning this year, expectations were high for the Varsity Volleyball team throughout the 2021 season.

Head Coach Rachel VanderPol conveyed this message to her team from the very first match.

“Whether at practice, at a game, or off the court, we wanted to accomplish each of our goals together as a team. Moving into the postseason we embraced the motto “finish it” because to us, we knew we had what it took to win it all, but we had not accomplished that in the past”, said Coach VanderPol.

After going 34-8 throughout both the regular season and the postseason, it seemed as if Coach VanderPol’s message had been received. However, one match in the state championship against Sandy Creek High School stood in the way of the Spartans’ mission. This matchup would be the third time that GAC and Sandy Creek had played this season, with the Spartans winning the first two matches. Early on, it appeared as if Sandy Creek would gain their revenge as they won the first set 27-25.

Despite being down a set in the midst of a loud atmosphere, the Spartans maintained their composure. They were victorious in three sets in a row, winning 25-23, 25-23, 25-14. As soon as junior, Naya Ohuabunwa, hit the final kill for the Spartans, the whole team dropped in relief. The Spartans “Finished” the season and brought home the championship trophy.

I AM JUST SO PROUD OF OUR GIRLS AND THEIR ABILITY TO WORK SO HARD THIS SEASON AS A TEAM, DESPITE MANY OBSTACLES LAST YEAR, TO BRING HOME THE FIRST EVER GAC VOLLEYBALL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP. I AM SO THANKFUL FOR OUR ALUMNI THAT PAVED THE WAY TO MAKE THIS POSSIBLE AND ALL THE ENCOURAGEMENT THEY HAVE GIVEN ALONG THE WAY. I AM THANKFUL TO OUR STAFF FOR GETTING THESE GIRLS MOTIVATED, FOCUSED, AND READY TO GO, AND I AM THANKFUL FOR GAC AND THE SUPPORT THEY HAVE SHOWN OUR PROGRAM AND TEAM THIS YEAR!

Rachel VanderPol, Head Coach

in 2001 for our program to win the state championship. I’m so proud of our 2021 Spartans for their heart and mental toughness all season long. They stepped up to the challenge and took it all the way!

God really blessed Coach VanderPol and this team through a great deal of adversity for the championship!

- Kristy Shelton, Assistant Coach

It’s been a dream since I coachingstartedvolleyball

4TH

State Title for Girls’ programTrackin the last YEARSFIVE

2021 STAFF:COACHING

Brad Kinser, Head Coach

Chase Parks, Distance Coach

Hayden Lane, Throws Coach

Ty Shelton, Pole Vault Coach

Ken Irvin, Sprint Coach

Erica Sargent, Sprint Coach

IT’S DEFINITELY SOMETHING TO BE PROUD OF, THAT WE WERE ABLE TO MAINTAIN SUCCESS OVER A FEW YEARS INSTEAD OF JUST A ONE SHOT KIND OF A DEAL. BUT IT’S A TESTAMENT TO OUR COACHING STAFF, THE WORK OF THESE KIDS, AND THEN JUST THE BUY-IN OF PEOPLE THAT LOVED WHAT THEY WERE DOING.

Brad Kinser, Varsity Track and Field Head Coach

Class of 2021 Collegiate Signees

Player Perspectives

“My basketball career has allowed me to experience great things and meet some of the best coaches and teammates. Competing as a Spartan to me means working hard and being the best version of yourself that you can be.”

Kaleigh Addie ‘22, Senior guard, Xavier Signee

“While playing GAC Football, I made so many lifelong memories and built lasting relationships with teammates and coaches. Spartan Football taught me how to work with others to accomplish something great.”

Will Hardy ‘22, Senior Safety/Wide Receiver, University of Virginia Signee

“Being a Spartan means more than just playing the sport, more than just winning rings. It is about relationships and developing myself as an individual. One thing I have loved throughout my years of playing sports here is the kind of friends I’ve made and knowing that some will be friendships that will last forever. Being a Spartan for more than twelve years has been the time of my life, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

Congratulations to Senior Addison Nichols for being selected to play in the 2022 All-American Bowl, the premier high school football game for top college football recruits from around the nation.

Addison is the 7th GAC player to be selected, 6th in the last eight years. He has committed to playing college football at the University of WeTennessee.areproud of Addison and excited for what is to come. Go Spartans!

“Being All-American means so much to me because it’s the pinnacle of your high school football experience. I’ve been dreaming about this since 8th grade.

It is something I’ve worked really hard to achieve and am blessed to be a part of.

God Bless, Go Spartans, and Go Vols!”

Molly Pritchard ‘22, Senior Soccer Athlete Ohio State University Signee

Girls Soccer – State Runners-Up 2021

Elite On-Campus Training Programs

Aquatics

• throughout the year

• In the past, GAC has also water polo teams. Due to the expansion and success of Aquatics we have not been able to provide diving. We hope to resume these if we can obtain funding to expand our aquatics

GAC IS SUCH A FAMILYORIENTED COMMUNITY. WE’RE ALL CHRISTIAN COACHES, AND WE WANT OUR SWIMMERS TO KNOW THEY CAN COUNT ON US. WE WANT THEM TO IMPROVE THEIR STROKES, TIMES, AND TECHNIQUE IN A PLACE WHERE THEY FEEL LIKE A PART OF THE FAMILY. WE ARE BLESSED WITH AMAZING SWIMMERS WHO ALWAYS STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE. GO SPARTANS AQUATICS! Husband and wife duo, Emily and Karl Krug direct GAC’s Aquatics Programs addition to GAC swim & dive teams, GAC hosts a year-round Spartan Aquatics Club Spartan Aquatics Club broke six national age-group records last year and won their division at state for the past two years as State Runners-Up

Emily Krug, Aquatics Director

Freeman Aquatic Center

Tennis Academy

• GAC has indoor & outdoor tennis courts on campus

• The Tennis Academy offers group and private lessons during and after school for all ages - including adults! Parents love the ALTA teams and Cardio Class

• The High Performance Hybrid Program through GAC’s Tennis Academy provides elite tennis players with a school community and strong academic experience while they pursue their passion for tennis

ONE OF OUR NICHES WITHIN THE PROGRAM IS THAT KIDS ARE ABLE TO PRACTICE DURING THE DAY AND UTILIZE OUR INDOOR COURTS FOR LESSONS. WE RECENTLY KICKED OFF OUR HIGH PERFORMANCE HYBRID PROGRAM SO THAT PLAYERS WHO EXCEL AT A HIGH LEVEL CAN STILL TRAIN IN THE MORNING, GO TO SCHOOL DURING MIDDAY, AND PARTICIPATE IN ETHOS ONLINE LEARNING IN THE AFTERNOON. THE STRUCTURE OF OUR PROGRAM AND THE ABILITY TO REACH ALL DIFFERENT LEVELS OF ATHLETES, BOTH AT THE ADULT AND JUNIOR STATUS, IS INCREDIBLE. THERE’S NOT ANOTHER PROGRAM LIKE IT IN THE COUNTRY THAT COMBINES THE STRENGTH OF ACADEMICS WITH TENNIS.

Scott Hutchinson, Tennis Academy Director

Theme for the year: Filled with Joy

In the life of believers, we trust that God provides hope, joy, and peace regardless of the circumstances. In the life of our school, the calling is the same.

Since GAC was founded in 1964, we have witnessed the presence of God on campus. From the old dirt road on Indian Trail that led to the front doors of our school of 150 students, to the thriving campus that now serves 1,500+ students a year, we have experienced how God has led GAC in the past and how God will continue to lead GAC in the future.

This year the theme on campus is “ Filled With Joy. ” In a world that seems to experience the lack of joy, what would it look like for the GAC campus to be filled with joy? Our desire as a school is for every student, faculty and staff member to experience fullness of joy in their lives this year. We’re excited and expectant to see how God will provide out of His abundance.

The word filled means, “to occupy to the full capacity.” Like a water hose that fills a bucket to the brim, God desires to fill our campus with joy to the full. And when the lives on campus are filled with joy, that joy will overflow into the world.

To be filled with joy leaves no room for despair. Over the years, GAC has experienced times of trial and hardship, but as a community of believers, we don’t go through trials the way the world does. We walk through the fire with hope and joy that the King who sits on the throne has come, and He is coming again. He has empowered our community to live with the same joy as Jesus did, that comes straight from the heart of the Father and overflows to bring hope and life to a world that is seeking.

God has a unique calling on GAC to be set apart from the world. As a Christ-filled community we are called to walk in biblical hope and unbridled joy. Biblical hope is absolute assurance in God’s promises for the future based on his faithfulness in the past. May we look behind to see what God has done, and walk in the confidence that God is going to continually fill us with joy by the power of the Holy Spirit to impact the campus, city, and nations for Christ.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

– Romans 15:13

David Skidmore from North Boulevard Church of Christ. Speaker at the middle school spiritual retreat.

Spiritual Retreats High School Spiritual Retreat Recap Video

Joy OVERFLOWED at the Middle and High School Spiritual Retreats. Students and teachers played games, worshipped, and spent time connecting with each other and the Lord. It was the perfect way to begin the 2021-2022 school year!

Devotional by Dr. Heyward

Filled with Joy, Hope, and Peace

Dr. Harsh placed a most relevant theme for us to ponder in this current world context. The theme is “Filled with Joy.” We are living in a time that seems so unclear and has filled many hearts with fear.

Paul speaks a relevant word for this season in Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

In this theological masterpiece called Romans, the apostle Paul provides a comprehensive understanding of the gospel as the means by which man is placed in right standing with God. As a result of receiving this gospel, Christians have peace accessed through faith (Romans 5:1-2). This peace was made available when the hostility between God and man was removed through the atoning death of Jesus (Romans 5:8-11).

To receive Christ is to accept peace, and subsequently, experience joy. It’s no wonder why Paul would admonish the church at Philippi with the statement, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4)”. Having explained that salvation has been offered to both Jew and Gentile,

Paul brings his readers into a pivotal moment of encouragement, acknowledging God as the source of hope, joy, and peace resting on the foundation of faith. It is wonderful to know that every human being can have a relationship with the Godhead three, The Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. God provides us with three concepts of comfort that lift us up through both times of smooth-sailing as well as through rough waters: hope, joy, and peace.

is not wishful thinking but a concrete expectation knowing that God fulfills his promises.

Joy is the inward delight and jubilance that is an outgrowth of our relationship with God.

Peace is

we open our hearts to be filled with all that God has for us, expecting a brighter future through our all-powerful God and the sufficiency of our Christ.

Dr. Orpheus Heyward is the Senior Minister of the Renaissance Church of Christ as well as a Bible teacher at GAC. He holds a Masters of Arts in Theology, Masters of Arts in Biblical Studies and a doctoral degree in Theological Exegesis. His two children, Nevaeh ’25 and Nehemiah ’28 attend GAC.

Spartan Together:

A Special Worship Night with Passion City Church

Worship and faith are central to the GAC experience. At the core of everything we do, we want to give God the glory and praise Him for His goodness and faithfulness to us. We host Spartan Together each year as a way to welcome families back on campus. It is a time for our families to gather, meet teachers, walk schedules, and fellowship with one another. This year, to conclude the evening, Passion City Church blessed us by joining and leading our community in a special worship night to dedicate the year to the Lord.

It was the perfect start to a new school year and a beautiful reminder that we indeed are greater together.

Brad Jones, Pastor of Passion City Church 515 and father of two GAC students, Caleb ‘33 and Addy ‘35.

GAC Teacher, Megan Malone ‘13

Lifelong Relationships

There are 5,325 GAC alumni worldwide, and they are rooted in relationships. Spartans stay connected in college, celebrate in groups at weddings (and often marry their highschool sweethearts ... 245 alumni and counting!), reconnect at reunions and playdates, network and support each other in business, become GAC parents, pray for each other in the ups and downs of life, and come together again like no time has passed since their time on campus. cultivate a vibrant community that values lifelong relationships.

Connect Share Support

– Maintain relationships with GAC friends, teachers, coaches, and your school

– Visit campus! You’re always welcome here. Tell us when you plan to visit, and we’ll give you a personalized tour

– Reach out to the Alumni Office for personal and professional networking opportunities

– Engage with alumni on Instagram (@gacsalumni), Facebook, and the GAC Alumni LinkedIn Group

– Update your contact info, submit your news, and news of a fellow Spartan

– Be an ambassador for your alma mater by recommending GAC to other families

– Share how GAC impacted your personal, spiritual, educational, and professional journey

– Students need alumni! Help a student attend GAC by donating to need-based financial aid

– Share expertise with a class or host a group of GAC students at your place of business

– Cheer on the Spartans in their academic, artistic, and athletic success

Nataly Beacham ’19, Kylie Byrd ’15, Becca Colehower ’16, Nicole (Reynolds) Corley ’11, Chandler Dula ’19, Ben Eberhart (’17), Mason English ’17, Heather Ferrari (’14), Emily Haglund (’19), Bennie Harris (’16), Alex Hathaway (’18), Molly Joseph (’17), Alyssa Nesmith (’18), Chris Sharp (’15), Jake Shumard (’14), Megan Staebell(’15), Reagan Street (’19), Mary Thomas (’18), Tony Wyche (’18) Alumni

Alumni Exceed Giving Goal

The need for financial aid and the generosity that alumni can show to the GAC community is just so important. There are kids in our area that have skills, experiences, and talents to bring to GAC to flourish, but they have a huge economic barrier. This is our chance as alumni to give back and help the next generation of GAC students.

Dr. Russell Holzgrefe ‘07, Class Valedictorian

I am the first in my family to go to college.

I have so many opportunities now because of GAC. When we first heard about financial aid, it really helped relieve a lot off of my mom’s shoulders. It’s a great feeling because I know that I am not alone. I have people supporting me and pushing me forward. - Matt Golebiewski ‘18

Their goal is to support the three students annually and include an additional student each year. Would you help four students attend GAC during the 2022-2023 school year by providing a gift now (through Spring 2022) for financial aid? YOU JOIN THEM? STUDENTS NEED ALUMNI.

ALUMNI BELIEVE IN SUPPORTING STUDENTS.

In 2020, alumni set a goal to support “one student at a time” with economic need to attend GAC. Their goal was to come together, spread awareness of the urgent need, and raise enough funds to support one student by the end of 2020.

They exceeded all expectations. GAC alumni are supporting not just one but THREE deserving students to attend their school this year. Thank you for your overwhelming generosity and dedication to students!

GAC alumni came together to provide a total gift of almost $35,000 that went directly for the financial assistance of three students during the 2021-2022 school year.

Young Alumni Leadership Circle

The Jesse Long Society

Class Year Annual Gift 2015 - 2021 2010 - 2014 2005 - 2009 2000 - 2004 Any Levels Annual Gift Circle Circle Wisdom & CircleStature

Original Spartans Circle

For alumni and friends who were a part of GAC’s early years, you can make a one-time or recurring gift of $19.68 to leave your legacy and honor the history of GAC.

About and rely on support each year.

Spotlight Stories

Artificial intelligence during the Stanford University Research Internship

“I am interested in the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital communication, specifically how AI can contribute to effective messaging campaigns for social good. This internship was a tremendous learning experience and meaningfully shaped my understanding of the future of marketing, messaging, and technology. I appreciate this unique opportunity to actively and deeply explore my interests in an interdisciplinary environment, as I have gained exposure to new ideas and seek to draw inspiration across diverse disciplines as I continue research in the future,” said Elise.

Dr. Vishal Patel ‘12 Relationship-builder and healthcare leader for the underserved

At GAC, Dr. Vishal was impacted by the kindness, creativity, and care of teachers like Mrs. Jami Denton and Mrs. JoAnn Waldrop. He was on the varsity soccer team for all four years of high school. Coach Thom Jacquet had a tremendous influence on his life and taught him invaluable life lessons beyond the game of soccer. He states, “my time at GAC allowed me to organically form a foundation blended with education, friendship and faith, from which I was able to flourish.”

Zeh Ekono ‘03 Mother, Harvard graduate, and litigation partner

Zeh is a devoted mother of two children and a driven leader in the field of law. She attended GAC from 1st grade to 12th grade and graduated in 2003. Her siblings also graduated from GAC, Mercedes ’07 and Charles ’11. Many GAC teachers impacted Zeh’s life, including Dr. Dwight Love and Mr. Jimmy Jones. After GAC, Zeh graduated from Harvard College in 2007 and then from Harvard Law School in 2010. She then clerked for a federal judge in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York before entering private practice. She is currently a litigation partner in the New York office of Litigation Department of Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP.

“An entrepreneur at heart, Chris started a business during the pandemic and thrived. While most business owners faced great uncertainty and disruption when the pandemic hit in 2020, it’s all BrightStar Care franchisee, Chris Jackson, has known. Reflecting on his GAC experience and his career path, Chris says, “GAC allowed me to learn the skills needed to prepare myself for a challenging career and provided inimitable opportunities to build meaningful personal and professional relationships through its vast and prominent alumni network...”

Amelia (Gazaway) Granberg ‘07

Faithful global ministry builder despite setbacks and child loss

Amelia Granberg is the Director of Operations of the global, online women’s ministry, Well-Watered Women. Though her degree is in political science and philosophy and her desire following the birth of her first child was to stay home, the Lord redirected her career path through a story only he could weave together. When Amelia reflects on her time at GAC, she says, “I can clearly see how God used my learning experience on campus to help me realize my gifts and talents, equipping me to step fully into the myriad of roles in my future. The Christ-centered community at GAC instilled values that would carry me through many ups and downs, encouraging me to reflect Jesus at all times and in all areas of life—the church, the home, the workplace, and in community.”

Elise Karinshak ‘19

Chris Jackson ‘99 Team leader, entrepreneur, and risk manager

More than 65 GAC Parents are Alumni!

Some of my favorite memories of GAC are Frog Hollow, Jump Rope for Heart, Field Days, and sports. In middle school, I was involved in swimming, cross country, and track. In high school, I was involved in swimming. Coach K was an amazing mentor. I was in academic support and am so thankful for them teaching me how I learn differently. I do not think I would have been as successful without my foundation from GAC. When we came to tour for our daughters, our niece and nephews were already students here and loved the Village. We were blown away by Young Learners. Kyla and Skye both attend GAC now, and our whole family is very involved!

- Rachel (Cormack) McComas ‘08, parent of Skye ‘36 and Kyla ‘34

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“[GAC] reinforced a moral standard that helped steer my compass when confronted with many challenging ethical dilemmas and life decisions. Without the influences of those teachers, classes, and classmates, I’m certain that I’d not be on the same path that I am today. Now as a parent, I’m excited to provide a similar environment to my children. I know that the teachers have and will continue to pour their love into our children to watch them flourish and achieve even greater things.”

- Thomas Vorpahl ‘92, parent of Grace ‘32, Joshua ‘30, and Luke ‘27

“We basketball, softball, drama, dance voice

I came to GAC for 7th-12th grade and was involved in basketball and softball, cross country and track. Some of the teachers and coaches who impacted me are Kristy (Coachie) and Cliff Shelton, Coach Dana Davis, Coach Bill Burton, Mr. Mike Glenn and Mr. Cliff Jones… I was fortunate to be a part of State Championships in basketball and softball. Being a student and an athlete at GACS taught me to work hard and never give up and great things can be achieved. I also learned to always put God first!”

- Lori (Stringer) Eberhart ’86, parent of Tori ’21, Ben ’17, and Megan (Eberhart) McMaster ‘14

Latest Alumni News

Lindsay Jason is a student at UGA and studied abroad for her fall semester in Costa Rica, studying Tropical Ecology and Ornithology. Before her trip, she painted a four-foot portrait of Atlanta United soccer player, Josef Martínez. She presented the beautiful painting to him in person, and, out of appreciation, he signed his autograph on it and gave her the jersey he wore during the match.

Hunter McIntosh graduated from GAC in 2019 and is a current student at Elon University. At an Elon Black Solidarity event in 2020, Hunter was one of the student speakers who called for an end to racism and to come together for unity. He talked about empathy, real change, making your voices heard, showing up, and embracing difficult conversations.

In 2020, when Hans Brechbühl was a senior at Texas A&M University and a member of the Corps of Cadets, he stepped into action to serve those affected by Hurricane Laura, which caused damage in East Texas and Louisiana. In an area with heavy destruction, Hans and a few other cadets served meals to about 150 first responders, police officers, and affected citizens.

In 2020, Yvonne Ma graduated from University of Pittsburgh. She is currently a sophomore intern working in finance and market research at Goldman Sachs. During her free-time in quarantine, she started connecting more with others through her YouTube channel.

Avery (Strickland) and Nelson Stewart met in K3 at GAC and both graduated from GAC in 2016. They got married on May 22, 2021 and now live near Atlanta, GA.

Dana Markert graduated from Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, GA and is pursing a Graduate Degree from Emory University in Masters in Public Health. She plans to graduate in Spring 2022 and hopes to work in Health Policy.

Nelson and Avery (Strickland) Stewart ‘16 Dana Markert ‘16

Yvonne Ma ‘16

Lindsay Jason ‘19

Tylor Lee graduated from Emory University in 2020 and will begin medical school at the Medical College of Georgia in 2021.

Jake Stephens graduated from the University of Florida in 2020 with a bachelor’s in biomedical engineering. Now he’s doing research in neuroscience and biomechanics as a graduate student at Georgia Tech and Emory.

Erik Georges graduated from Belmont University in 2019. He played bass full-time on Broadway before becoming a professional photographer, and he got married October 2021.

DJ Coker graduated from Rhodes College in 2018 and signed to the Houston Texans after graduation in 2019. He is currently an offensive lineman for the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League.

2012Rachel (Pew) Grande graduated from Georgia Southern University in 2016 with a Bachelors in Exercise Science. In 2017, she graduated from Life University and earned a Masters of Exercise Science. She is now an Exercise Physiologist at a cardiology practice in Johns Creek. She married Chris Grande in May 2021, and they live in Suwanee with their two cats. They enjoy playing in an adult soccer league together.

2015Natalia Brody graduated from Emory University in 2019 with a B.S. in Neuroscience & Behavioral Biology as well as minor in English Literature. She is now pursuing a medical degree at the Medical College of Georgia with aspirations of becoming a pediatrician.

Landon Keller graduated from Georgia Tech in 2020 and now lives in Raleigh, NC pursuing a PhD in Chemical Engineering at North Carolina State University.

Kylie Byrd is working on her MBA at the University of Washington in Seattle.

Julian Wright graduated from UGA in 2020 with a degree in Management Information Systems. Now, Julian is working as a consultant at an IT consulting firm called Capgemini.

Eric Haviland graduated from University of North GA in 2019 with a Bachelors in Criminal Justice, Minor in Global Leadership, a certificate of Military Leadership, and a GA Basic Law Enforcement certification. Currently, he is working for the City of Dunwoody as a Police Officer.

2014Jake (2014) and Madi (Licata) Shumard (2015) have been together since they were students at GAC. They got married on August 14, 2021 at the Atlanta Athletic Club. Jake recently passed the Georgia bar exam and is practicing law in the Atlanta area.

Courtney (Garner) Tucker and her husband, Jacob, celebrated their one-year wedding anniversary in April 2021 in historic Roswell, GA. Courtney is a Project Manager for RSM, a tax consulting firm, Jake works in logistics. They currently reside in Birmingham, Alabama with their two dogs, Memphis and Ruby.

Madi (Licata) & Jake Shumard

DJ Coker ‘15

Erik Georges ‘15

Kylie Byrd

Julian Wright

2011Maddison (Moellering) Hendershot attended Samford University and majored in Human Development and Family Life Education. Afterwards, she married her college sweetheart, Nathan Hendershot. Maddison is now the Director of Operations for the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. They are building their first home in Cumming, GA.

Kelly Kinser graduated from Jacksonville State University in 2015 and moved back to Georgia. Kelly is engaged to Julian Sims, and they have a three year old daughter, Indigo. They’re expecting another baby in November 2021. Kelly is working while finishing her Masters Degree to become a School Counselor.

Kathryn Osbon attended UGA and graduated in 2015. She now works in the Marketing field in Atlanta, GA.

Emma (Deal) Olivieri graduated from UGA and earned her MDM from the Dental College of Georgia. She is now an Associate at the Lipson Dental Group and got married to Anthony Olivieri in 2020.

Bryan Klemm had a double lung transplant on December 30, 2019.

Patrick and Nicole (Reynolds) Corley (both class of ‘11) reside in Brookhaven, GA with their 1 year old daughter, Rylen. Patrick is an employment and commercial litigation attorney at Duane Morris and Nicole is a corporate event planner. They enjoy spending time with their 14 year old rescue dog, PJ. Rylen attends the Young Learners program at GAC.

Alexandra (Deedy) Watson , former varsity GAC Swim team captain, married Taylor Watson on September 24, 21 at St. Brigid Catholic Church in Johns Creek, Georgia. The bride wore her grandmother’s wedding dress from 1954.

Emma (Deal) Olivieri ‘11

Kathryn Osbon ‘11

Kelly Kinser ‘11

Maddison Hendershot(Moellering)‘11

Patrick & Nicole (Reynolds) Corley ‘11

Courtney (Garner) Tucker ‘12

Julian Horton is a talented actor who is also a leader in the entertainment world regarding his vocal faith in God. In 2021, he starred alongside Oscar and Emmy award winners in the motion picture, National Champions.

Courtney (Parker) Castillo graduated from Samford in 2014 and married Connor Castillo the same year. They have three children Nora (4), Ross (3), and Calvin (10 months).

Nick Rogers is engaged to his Law School Classmate, Sun Park, and is in his second year of law school. After graduating with an undergraduate degree from Georgia Southern University, he started working for Rogers Electric. Nick has a White German Shepherd puppy named Klaus.

Madeline (Barker) Lubin played four years of collegiate soccer at UGA before graduating in 2014. Upon graduation, she entered the workforce and has been in some form of marketing ever since. In 2019, she married Stephen Lubin (another UGA alum), and in 2020 their first child, Berkeley Kate, was born. The Lubins are currently living in Peachtree Corners.

Wesley Pate graduated from Boston University in 2014, where he concluded his swimming career. In 2018, he graduated from Boston University School of Medicine and matched to urologic surgery residency at Boston Medical Center. He is in his third year of residency and plans to pursue a fellowship in robotic and laparoscopic surgery. Wesley is engaged and plans to get married summer 2022 in Boston. His fiancée, Natalie, is his long time friend and partner from college and medical school. She is in anesthesia residency and will specialize in obstetric anesthesia.

Jacqueline (Tate) Hall graduated from UGA in 2014 with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She got married to Brent Hall in 2016 and received her Master’s degree in 2020 in Mathematics Education. She has been teaching 8th Grade Algebra in Gwinnett County since 2014 and won Teacher of the Year for her school in 2021.

Leslie (Ireland) Boles graduated from KSU in 2015 and married James D. Boles in January of 2017.

Julian Horton ‘10

Madeline (Barker) Lubin ‘10

Wesley Pate ‘10

Courtney (Parker) Castillo ‘10

Stephanie (Boling) Hooks graduated from GAC in 2010. She went to Valdosta State where she met her husband, Logan Hooks. They got married in 2014 and have three amazing boys, Maverick, Paxton, and Bodie

Haley Carroll graduated from the University of Alabama in 2014. She received her degree in Interior Design. Since then, Haley has started her own company, Haley Renee Interiors, and she was featured in My Home Improvement Magazines Rising Stars Contest in 2019.

Carly Busbee graduated from SCAD in 2014. Shortly after, she met Zavier, whom she shares two beautiful kids with, Zayden (4) and Capri (6 months). She works for her family’s company, Busbee and Poss Land Surveying, where she is the Operations Manager.

2009Justin Ernest got engaged to Christina in fall 2020 in the beautiful town of Half Moon Bay. They then became “nomads” during the pandemic and lived in several mountainous states. They spent a significant amount of time in Atlanta, where many of their family members live. They recently moved to San Francisco and are both enjoying their jobs in the tech industry. They remain busy planning their wedding for April 2022 in Asheville, NC, and hope to see many alumni there. Go Spartans!

Mike Kennedy became interested in learning Mandarin Chinese while working on a hardware startup in 2017. There, he saw the benefits this skill set could bring to working with Asian manufacturers. With his love for Mandarin, he co-founded a Chinese language learning web app, JinbuPal, which helps students and professionals reach high proficiency in Chinese skills with the most effective approach. Mike works as a mechanical engineer at The Boeing Company in Charleston, SC.

Morgan Hall got engaged to Jacob Watson in the summer of 2021 in Pray, Montana. They purchased a home together this year and live in Canton, Georgia with their dog, Finn. They are looking forward to the planning of their wedding for May 2022.

Lauren (Lindsley) West and her husband, McCray, welcomed their second daughter, Juniper Ann, on July 27, 2021. Lauren is now working as Director of Marketing and Communications at GAC.

Kevin Heard graduated from UGA in 2013 and the Medical College of Georgia in 2017. He is a boardcertified dermatologist practicing medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology in private practice. He and his wife, Annalise, live in Tampa, FL with their new daughter, Emilyn, born in May 2021, and their dogs, Cooper and Finley. They love the sunshine and beach in Florida and often return to Georgia to visit family and friends.

Justin Ernest ‘09

Lauren (Lindsley) West ‘09

Mike Kennedy

Morgan Hall ‘09

Carly Busbee

Kevin Heard ‘09

Stephanie (Boling) Hooks ‘10

Sara (Collins) White and her husband, Dustin, welcomed their second child, Will, on New Year’s Eve 2020. Shortly after Will was born, Sara returned to Deloitte Consulting and now works as a Manager in their Human Capital Practice. The Whites live in Dunwoody and both Will and Anna (K4) attend GAC. Sara is currently serving as President of the GAC Alumni Board and is enjoying the opportunity to reconnect with the GAC family.

GAC. Sam and Mac have a team of more than 10 and specialize in helping the emerging affluent and high net worth with comprehensive financial planning.

Sara (Brown) Ingle and her husband welcomed their second child, Banks David Ingle, on 7/3/21.

In February 2021, Lauren (Moore) Evans and her family welcomed their second baby, Edith Moon, to the world. This fall, Lauren enters her fourth year teaching in the Art Department at Samford University. She is the founder/organizer of the Artist/Parent/ Academic network and continues to make and exhibit artwork inspired by personal and collective experiences of maternal subjectivity.

Sam Arthur

Sam and Jessi Arthur live in Brookhaven, GA with their 15-monthold daughter, Ellie. After playing soccer for four years and majoring in Finance at the University of South Carolina, Sam began his career as a wealth management advisor with Northwestern Mutual. This year marks his 10th year with Northwestern Mutual and also the formation of Haven Wealth Advisors, which he co-founded with GAC parent, Mac Schneider, whose three children, Johan, Shiloh, and Justin, all graduated from

Rebekah Osteen is currently an Admissions Counselor and Enrollment Recruiter at Lipscomb University and lives in Lewisburg, TN.

Vallon (Douthit) Fischhaber, graduated from Auburn University in 2010. She and her husband, Solomon Fischhaber, just welcomed their first child, Zoë Kate Fischhaber, on May 25, 2021.

Laurene (Greene) Avirett ‘06

Vallon (Douthit) Fischhaber ‘06

Lauren (Moore) Evans ‘07

Sarah (Brown) Ingle ‘07

Sara White(Collins)‘08

Sam Arthur ‘07

Wade and Kathleen (Davis) Weldon welcomed a son, Brooks, in December of 2020. He joins sister, Elise, who was born in May of 2019. Kathleen is a nurse practioner, Wade is a financial advisor, and their family lives in Brookhaven, GA.

Laurene (Greene) Avirett and her husband just welcomed a son, Miles, who was born weighing 7 pounds, 10 ounces, and 21 inches long. Miles attends the Young Learners program at GAC.

Matt Bush graduated from Pepperdine University in 2005, and completed his Masters from Pepperdine in 2008. After several years as a lead instructor at a neurology education company he founded Next Level Neuro in 2018 to help entrepreneurs, executives, and athletes reach their next level of performance with applied & functional neurology training. In 2019 he married Kathy Mauck and became stepfather to Kathy’s two amazing teenagers: Mackenzie and Caleb. Matt and Kathy reside in Phoenix, AZ.

2001Tyler Johnson graduated from Baylor University in 2005, and married his beautiful wife, Erica, in spring of 2021. They live in Toluca Lake, CA with their terrier, Rufus, whose favorite activity is barking at the Amazon delivery man.

Traci (Wilks) Ort graduated from Florida State University in 2005 and spent a decade performing in stunt and acrobatic shows in Orlando, FL. She is currently living in Windermere, FL with her husband Joe and her two daughters, Taylor and Holland.

Mark Ott graduated from Lipscomb University in 2004 and got married in 2009. He and his wife, Joanna, live in Franklin, Tennessee and have three boys: Abel (7), Asher (4), and Isaac (6 mos). Mark runs product strategy and design at RoundingWell, a digital health company, and does product consulting for clients across a variety of industries.

Mark Ott ‘01

Matt Bush ‘01

Traci (Wilks) Ort Johnson ‘01

Wade and KathleenWeldon(Davis)‘06

Lauren “Loryn” (Snell) Kamal graduated from UGA in 2005 with a BFA in Art/Graphic Design. She married Derek Kamal in 2006, and they reside in Marietta, GA with their two daughters, Nico (age 9), and Ezri (age 5). Lauren is an artist, musician, and full-time mom, and Derek teaches middle school in Cobb County.

Jennifer (Emsley) Hicks is an assistant principal at an elementary school in Gwinnett. She married Charles Hicks ‘02 in 2006. They have three boys (ages 9, 6, 2) and live in Hoschton, GA.

Drew Henley serves as a pastor at Redeemer Community Church, a multi-ethnic Anglican Church just west of Downtown Atlanta. He is married to Diane Henley (16 years of marriage!) and they have 4 kids: Anna (11), Evelyn (9), Emma (7), and Luke (5).

Nick Campbell has been married to Melissa (Thompson) Campbell for 14 years, and they have 4 amazing children (Mason-12, Owen-11, Harper-6, and Sadie-2). They live in Knoxville, TN where he serves as the Minister to Students and Families at Central Baptist Church of Bearden. Nick has been serving in student ministry for over 12 years, previously serving at FBC Sevierville, Aloma Church (Orlando, FL), and Tri-City Baptist (Hickory, NC). He serves on the Board of Directors for Hearts on Fire Ministries, a youth-focused ministry that holds affordable conferences

for youth, providing top speakers and Christian artists. Their conference in Pigeon Forge, TN hosts over 16,000 students annually in November.

Chad Johnson graduated from Auburn University in 2006 and got married to Katie in 2011. They now have (4) boys Cooper (8), Carter (6), Camden (4), and Cole was born December of 2020. They live in Apex, NC, and he just started a new job as Sr. Account Executive at Amazon Web Services.

Jena (Hazlerigs) Carver graduated from UGA in 2006 with a BA in Sociology and graduated from Luther Rice University with a MA in Leadership in 2011. She married Jason Carver in 2012 and they welcomed their only child, Jacob Samuel Carver, in 2016. They reside in Monroe, GA and are the owners of multiple businesses: Total Pro Roofing, Red’s Lake, and Carver Whitetails.

Chad Johnson ‘01

Drew Henley ‘01

Jena (Hazlerigs) Carver ‘01

Charles ‘02 and Jennifer (Emsley) Hicks ‘01

Nick Campbell ‘01

Lauren (Snell) Kamal ‘01

Mollie (Allen) Surratt and her husband, Jason, live in Calhoun, GA with their two daughters, Caroline (9) and Charlotte (6). She owns a marketing agency, White Label Studio, which serves clients in the home, flooring, and fashion industries. Her husband is an executive in the flooring industry. They live in a small town and love their community, where they’re involved in their church and non-profit organizations. They enjoy working out, playing outside with their children and dogs, and going to concerts.

2000Lizzie (Windes) Pennisi is a proud mom and business owner of Lizzie Anne Showroom. She enjoys staying close friends with several other GAC alumni and living in Suwanee, GA.

Jenn (Throckmorton) Richards graduated from Samford University and works in medical sales. She is happily married to GAC alumnus, Craig Richards ‘97 , and they live in Suwanee, GA, with their three boys.

Erik and Elizabeth (Douthat) Peddle both graduated from GAC in 2000. Erik then earned a degree from Georgia State University and now works at Dwell Communities. He and Elizabeth have three boys and live in Marietta, GA.

Lee Clayton graduated from Samford University, and is now a consultant at the Gallup Organization. He, his wife, and their two girls live in Johns Creek, GA.

1998

After six and a half years of serving at Neema House in Geita, Tanzania, Scott McFaddin’s family moved to Musanze, Rwanda in February 2021. There, he is the Finance Director for Virunga Valley Academy, an American Christian school. They are able to serve ministries in two countries as his wife, Cheryl, continues to lead Neema House by traveling back to Tanzania every few months.

1997Brett ‘95 and Joanna (Hayes) Duke ‘97 live in Duluth, GA with their children. Brett took command of the 221st Military Intelligence Battalion on July 10, 2021 for the 78th Troop Command, Army National Guard. He’ll serve as Commander for two years out of the Gillem Enclave in Forest Park, Ga., a crowning achievement of his 18-year commitment to the Army. Brett is the COO at Atlantic Pacific Real Estate Group and is involved with many industry organizations and serves on charitable, civic, and professional boards. His parents and wife, Joanna, proudly support his military and civilian successes. They moved from Decatur to Duluth to be closer to family and to GAC, where their children (Abbey, 16 and William, 14) attend school and Joanna works part-time. Their youngest child, Victoria, is 9 years old. They are actively involved members of Perimeter Church.

Craig ‘97 and Richards(Throckmorton)Jenn‘00

Lee Clayton ‘00

Erik Peddle ‘00

Mollie (Allen) Surratt ‘01

Brett ‘95 and Joanna (Hayes) Duke ‘97

1996

Ashley (Clark) Randolph graduated from Lipscomb University and is now an accountant in Nashville, TN.

1986

Shelton (Arnold) Greene graduated from GAC in 1986 and then graduated from Lipscomb University. She is currently a proud stay-at-home mom of three in Brentwood, TN.

1991

Natsue Ishida is in Japan with her husband Massimo, working as in-house Counsel for a truck manufacturer. She enjoys rock climbing and traveling to various parts of the country on her weekends. She and her husband spent an unforgettable summer volunteering at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics / Paralympics!

1987

Rob ‘87 and Traci (Dunn) ‘88 Browne have been married for over 26 years. They have two children in college and two in high school, and look forward to a bit more free time! They both work at YouthReach International and enjoy this ministry, which reaches orphans and at-risk youth in six nations. They welcome other alumni to Monroe, GA to join them at Silver Queen on Wayne Street.

1982

Dorrence ‘82 and his wife, Kelly (Sewell) Stovall ’84 moved into a new home in December and are settling into their new neighborhood, which is near their church. They are celebrating a new granddaughter, Alaina Quinn Stovall, born October 3rd, 2020. She is growing so fast and is adored by her parents and big brother.

Terri (Robinson) Brisson earned degrees from Harding University and the University of North Florida and is currently enjoying being a retired banker as a resident of Orange Park, FL.

1977

Price and Bonnie (Belote) Futrell both graduated from GAC in 1977. They enjoy encouraging others to live faithful and healthy lives. In 2020, they vacationed with fellow Spartan Melinda McDonald ‘77.

After GAC, Robin (Casey) Rosch graduated from Abilene Christian University and Lipscomb University. She is currently an Elementary Spanish Teacher in Hendersonville, TN. 1974

After GAC, Mark Daugherty earned his degree from Nashville State Technical Institute. He is enjoying retirement in Franklin, TN. 1973

Price and Bonnie (Belote) Futrell ‘77 Dorrence ‘82 and Kelly Stovall(Sewell)’84

Rob ‘87 and Traci (Dunn) ‘88 Browne

Natsue Ishida ‘91

We are immensely grateful to the faculty, alumni, Board of Trustees, parents, grandparents, and friends who gave generously and made GAC’s extraordinary education possible.

Over 94% of our parents, 100% of our faculty and staff, and 100% of the Board of Trustees pledged over $1.4 million to cover important academic, student life, and safety initiatives. Your gift directly impacted every student by supporting the operating budget in vital ways during the 2020-2021 school year: Annual Fund Campaign

• Implementing Synchronous Learning (GAC Sync) technology, which allows students to experience real-time teaching and collaboration regardless of location

• Supporting ongoing security contracts for two Sheriffs on campus

• Changing collaborative classrooms to single person desks, adding an additional 440 desks

• Ongoing support of a licensed therapist to our counseling department to offer even more assistance to our students

• Continued use of RAVE Alert and TxtAboutIt for physical and emotional safety

• Establishing a Health Team to monitor COVID-19 cases, contact tracing, and additional equipment and materials

Your support helps make GAC a transformative place. From every student at GAC, thank you!

Georgia GOAL

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew A. Adams

Ms. Deborah L. Akindele Anonymous (3)

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Arnold

Mr. and Mrs. Keith Asef

Mr. and Mrs. Timothy A. Ball Dr. and Mrs. Scott A. Barbour

Mr. and Mrs. James D. Barker

Mr. and Mrs. Brandon Barron

Mr. and Mrs. John T. Bartolomei Mr. and Mrs. Terrance L. Beasley

Mr. Paul and Dr. Jean Bentz

Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Blackburn

Mr. and Mrs. Leland Blackwood, III

Mr. and Mrs. Alan L. Blinder

Mr. Stephen and Dr. Jennifer Bragg Mr. and Mrs. Jon M. Brasher, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Clayton Y. Braswell, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Courtney D. Braswell Mr. William C. Brookshire, Jr. Drs. Frank and Pamela Brown

Mr. and Mrs. Todd H. Bryant Mrs. Joanne Buckner Mrs. Regan D. Burnett

Mr. and Mrs. Nathan I. Burton

Mr. and Mrs. William C. Burton

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Butler

Dr. and Mrs. Jose L. Cangiano

Mr. and Mrs. William D. Carter, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Eric Charron Mr. and Mrs. Steven G. Charron

Mr. and Mrs. Craig M. Chumley Mr. and Mrs. James L. Chupp Mr. and Mrs. Philip J. Civins

CDR and Mrs. Michael J. Clark, II Ms. Machelle Clarke Mr. and Mrs. James E. Combee Mr. and Mrs. John C. Cubic Mr. and Mrs. Scott A. Davis

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Dixon, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. James T. Duttera, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. John W. Dye

Mr. and Mrs. Byron L. Eberhart, III Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence E. Ertley, III Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Espy, III Mr. W. Scott Evans and Dr. Monique Welsh-Evans Ms. Cheryl Fairbanks

Dr. and Mrs. David L. Fincher Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan T. Ford, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Danny R. Foster

Mr. and Mrs. Lee S. Freeman

Mr. and Mrs. Eric S. Friedman

Mr. and Mrs. R. Brad Goodson Mr. and Mrs. Mark Hallock Mr. and Mrs. David L. Harris Mr. and Mrs. Josh Harrison

Dr. and Mrs. Scott C. Harsh Mr. and Mrs. Brett K. Harte Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Hawkins, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Heinselman Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Henry, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Mark Herbert Mr. and Mrs. Stephen J. Herzog Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Hodge

Mr. and Mrs. David C. Hogan Mr. and Mrs. Larry Holmes

Mr. and Mrs. Justin Houston

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Huynh Mr. and Mrs. Michael Ichwan Ms. Carol Jackovich Ms. Janna S. Jenkins

Mr. and Mrs. Michael D. Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Richard C. Johnson Mr. and Mrs. J. Thad Joiner, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Paul R. Jones Mr. and Mrs. John E. Kahn Dr. and Mrs. Matthew T. Keadey Mr. and Mrs. Jason E. Keehfus

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kempa Mr. and Mrs. Michael E. Lake Mr. Jonathan R. Lee

Mr. Tin Tsun Leung and Mrs. Yunnmay Tyan Mr. and Mrs. Adam S. Lloyd Mr. and Mrs. William J. Long Mr. and Mrs. Cecil C. Loyd Mr. and Mrs. Donald W. Maness Ms. Pamela K. Manley

Mr. and Mrs. James T. McComas Mr. and Mrs. Christopher D. McIntyre Mr. and Mrs. Jovar C. McKellar Mr. and Mrs. Donald R. McLaughlin Mr. and Mrs. David G. McTier Mr. and Mrs. Moises Medina Mr. and Mrs. B. Eric Middleton Mr. Daniel Miller and Mrs. Jacqueline Hewett Mr. and Mrs. David H. Miller Mr. and Mrs. Fritz Miller Mr. and Mrs. Kevin M. Mitchell Mr. and Mrs. William C. Mizell Mr. Gairy R. Moore Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Moss Mr. and Mrs. Fernando Nasmyth Mr. and Mrs. Paul A. Neilson Mr. Amir Nejad and Mrs. Bogumila Kabat Mr. and Mrs. Brian E. Nichols Mr. and Mrs. Derek Norred Mr. and Mrs. William F. Nygaard Mr. and Mrs. Ned O’Brien Mr. and Mrs. Peter Ostapiuk PCS Partners, Inc Mr. Peter V. Pellegrini Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Perkins Mr. and Mrs. Scott Pryor Mr. and Mrs. David M. Rath Ms. Jean M. Rawls Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Reilly Mr. and Mrs. Dwade Reinsch Mr. and Mrs. John L. Reynolds Mr. and Mrs. Donald W. Richardson

Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Robb Mr. and Mrs. Joseph W. Sandoe Mr. and Mrs. F. Mac Schneider Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Shaffer Mr. and Mrs. Justin Shapiro

Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth M. Shumard, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Sierra Mr. and Mrs. Robert R. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Paul Stechmesser Dr. and Mrs. L. Todd Stewart

Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Stinchcomb Mr. and Mrs. Matt Stinchcomb Mr. Thomas J. Swafford, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Paul A. Syiek

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Tabor Mrs. Claire Tardy Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey H. Taylor Dr. and Mrs. Joshua A. Thomason

Drs. Joseph and Tina-Ann Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Tiberia Mr. and Mrs. James J. Tidwell Drs. R. Andrew and Patricia Todebush Mr. and Mrs. Charles R. Vanwynbergen Mr. and Mrs. Daniel H. Voelzke Mr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Vorpahl

Mr. and Mrs. H. Neil Walls Mr. and Mrs. John Webb Mr. and Mrs. McCray West WestRock Company

Mr. and Mrs. R. Don White Mr. and Mrs. David M. Whitworth Mr. and Mrs. Adam Wickley Mr. and Mrs. Floyd R. Williams, III Mr. and Mrs. Revi M. Williams Mr. and Mrs. C. Grant Willis, III Mr. and Mrs. George D. Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Brent D. Wiseman Dr. and Mrs. Mike Wooten

Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program

This scholarship allows Georgia taxpayers to redirect a portion of their state income tax to provide financial aid for eligible students to attend GAC. If you are an alumni, parent of an alumni, a grandparent, or friend and pay taxes to the State of Georgia, you can participate.

Married couple filing jointly Up to $2,500

Married people filing separately Up to $1,250

Individual filing single Up to $1,000

Georgia Goal: We are glad you are here.

My Khuong Le, who goes by the name of “Apple”, is in Mrs. Finazzo’s first-grade class here at GAC. The Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program has turned her mother’s dream of Apple being a Spartan into a reality. Her mother Rosalyn is a single mother, and she shares that Apple would not otherwise be able to attend GAC due to financial considerations. Ms. Le is greatly appreciative of the education that GAC provides her daughter. “I can’t describe how happy I feel that Apple can go to GAC. It’s a joy for me to see Apple so excited and happy and learning so much,” she said.

“I love everything about GAC,” Apple says.

The Georgia GOAL program, created in 2008, allows Georgia taxpayers to re-direct and pre-pay a portion of their state taxes to an independent school of their choice. Participants receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit back when they file their taxes. Contributions to the GOAL program have directly benefited nearly 300 students at GAC since the program’s inception. Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program contributors bring worthy students like Apple to GAC by maximizing financial aid for those eligible, deserving students who hit above the mark.

In Honor of

Gifts made between October 15, 2020 through October 11, 2021. Gifts made prior to this date were listed in the previous magazine.

In honor of Carys and Catherine Angove Mrs. Carol Rittenhouse

In honor of Jack and Kate Barron Carolyn’s Communications Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Wheeler

In honor of Thomas Boyd Ms. T. Christine Boyd-Witherspoon

In honor of Kortlynn Bryant Mr. and Mrs. Darryl Greer Ms. Shelby Wilkerson

In honor of Bill Burton Dr. and Mrs. Carl Holladay Mr. and Mrs. Christopher D. McIntyre

In honor of James Canipe Mr. and Mrs. Delroy Heiser

In honor of Jack Carlin and Porter Carlin Mrs. Mary Carlin

In honor of Emily Chandler and Maddie Grace Chandler Ms. Lora E. Roberts

In honor of Randall and Betty Cody Mr. and Mrs. Scott Cody

In honor of Jim & Becky Combee Mr. and Mrs. Leroy J. Brannon, Sr.

In honor of Mary Ellis Davies Mr. Kenneth E. Bowes

In honor of Leslie Ann Davis Ms. Beverly Davis

Mr. and Mrs. Terry L. Layson Ms. Katie Waters

In honor of Varnell and Joan Douthit Mr. and Mrs. Solomon Fischhaber

In honor of Mr. and Mrs. Milton Eades Ms. Rachel E. Justice

In honor of Bob Espy Mr. and Mrs. Claude D. Bartlett

In honor of Julia Darden Flynt Ms. Julia Flynt

In honor of Fredrik Franzèn Mr. and Mrs. Johan M. Franzèn

In honor of Howard Frye Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm A. Cunningham

In honor of Mike Glenn Mr. and Mrs. Christopher D. McIntyre

In honor of Taylor Gulley Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Bankson

In honor of Kaleigh Warwick Hartley Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey L. Warwick

In honor of Abigail Heizer and Claire Heizer Mr. and Mrs. Reginald C. Acker

In honor of Vivian Leigh Hewatt Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lindner

In honor of Jenna Jackovich Mr. and Mrs. George Colton

In honor of Logan Kimberl Mr. and Mrs. Clarence M. Kimberl

In honor of Brad Kinser Mr. and Mrs. Matthew L. Fincher

In honor of Nico, Gabi, and Isa Krause Ms. Debbie Krause

In honor of Micah Larson and Ryder Larson Mr. and Mrs. William Upchurch

In honor of Bill and Betty Long Mr. and Mrs. Gary W. Long Mr. and Mrs. Leo Shababy

In honor of The Loveless Family Mr. and Mrs. Steve Necessary

In honor of Mrs. Victoria Lowe Mr. and Mrs. Scott D. Sams

In honor of Brody Lussier Mr. and Mrs. Cliff Kimsey, III

In honor of Alex Marler and Amy Marler Mr. and Mrs. Clarance D. Adams

In honor of Tinsley Grace Merrill-Lee Mr. and Mrs. T. Randy Merrill

In honor of Middle School Staff Ms. Michelle Huggins

In honor of Andrew Minor and Luke Minor Ms. Cheryl Procell

In honor of Bella Moffa, Robbie Moffa, and Ryan Moffa Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Ernest

In honor of Tye L. Newton Mr. and Mrs. Marvin A. Gullatt Ms. Margaret J. Wilson

In honor of Nathan Pew Mr. and Mrs. Mark W. Pew

In honor of Rachel Pew Mr. and Mrs. Mark W. Pew

In honor of Joy Plowden and James Plowden Mrs. Nancy A. Plowden

In honor of Kaeden Rigopoulos Mr. and Mrs. Troy Richardson

In honor of Mr. Tyler Sams Mr. and Mrs. Scott D. Sams

In honor of Roosevelt Sloan Mr. and Mrs. Wyndol C. Milton

In honor of Amelia Sowerby Mr. and Mrs. Philip Schuck

In honor of Richard and Susan Stransky Designables Inc Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Merrick

In honor of Donna Strickland Dr. and Mrs. Carl Holladay

In honor of Christopher Stroud Ms. Denise Stroud

In honor of Natalee Summers Mr. Richard Johnson

In honor of Jacob Tarpley, Kathryn Tarpley, Michael Tarpley, and Olivia Tarpley Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Tarpley

In honor of Bailey Teague and Nick Teague Mr. and Mrs. Gerard Finnegan

In honor of Kristen Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Tommie Fitzhugh

In honor of Gianlucca Tiberia Mr. and Mrs. Russell Langlet

In honor of Lance Wickley Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Wickley

In honor of Luke Winter Mr. and Mrs. Myron E. Bullock, Sr.

In honor of Brandon Wright Mr. and Mrs. James B. Stanley, Jr.

In honor of Mia Wright and Traeh Wright Mr. Leonard Wright

In memory of Naheed Akber

Mr. and Mrs. Rahim Sivji

In memory of Mr. Hisham A. Araim

Mr. Aous H. Araim

The Hisham and Nawal Araim Foundation

In memory of Moses and Lorine Bell

Ms. Latrella G. Bell

In memory of Jane Blackman

Mr. and Mrs. Brett D. Duke

Mr. and Mrs. David T. Long

In memory of Ben Born

Mr. and Mrs. Randall R. Jackson

In memory of Mollie Bryant

Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Turnbough

In memory of Clara Helen Butler

Mr. Darren and Dr. Robin Hensley

In memory of Ella Mae Callender

Dr. and Mrs. Joshua A. Thomason

In memory of Bishop Quincy L. Carswell

Pastor Quincy Carswell, II and Dr. April Carswell

In memory of Margaret Taylor Casey

Mr. and Mrs. William C. Burton

Mr. and Mrs. Randall R. Jackson

Mr. Nathan Jernigan

Mr. and Mrs. Marc O’Brien

Otter Creek Church of Christ

In memory of Claudio Castañeda

Duct-Max Supply

Mrs. Liliana Ramirez

In memory of Ray Cozart

Mr. and Mrs. Randall R. Jackson

In memory of Eric Michael Doh

Mr. and Mrs. Serge A. Doh

In memory of Colonel Vic and Margaret Ellis

Lt. Col. Victor A. Ellis

In memory of H.A. and Kakie Fincher

Dr. and Mrs. David L. Fincher

In memory of H.A. Fincher

Mr. and Mrs. Irvin D. Burnett

Mrs. Kathleen T. Fincher

Ms. Pamela Fincher

Ms. Yvonne Fincher

In memory of Kakie Fincher

Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Arrowood

Mr. and Mrs. Bob Barker

Mrs. Modeane Begley

Mr. Jackie Bradford

Mrs. Katherine L. Brown

Mr. and Mrs. Todd H. Bryant

Mr. and Mrs. Irvin D. Burnett

Mrs. Edith C. Butler

Mr. and Mrs. James L. Chupp

Church of Christ at Snellville

Ms. Bobbie Jean Colley

Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Cooper

Ms. Datha Corbitt

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald L. Cox

Mr. and Mrs. Mike B. Farrar

Ms. Roberta T. Farrar

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew L. Fincher

Ms. Pamela Fincher

Ms. Yvonne Fincher

Ms. Juanita Grubbs

Mrs. Kelly Harris

Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Helms

Mr. and Mrs. James R. Henderson

Mrs. Janet Hicks

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey B. Hicks

Mr. and Mrs. John W. Holden, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Carl H. Hoover

Mr. and Mrs. Randall R. Jackson

Mr. and Mrs. John Liddle

Mrs. Marilyn Long

Mr. and Mrs. Sam Mankin

Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. McMahan

Mr. Jimmy Miller

Ms. Julie Moore

Mr. and Mrs. T. Allen Nichols

Mr. and Mrs. Donovan M. Norris

Dr. and Mrs. Erol Onal

Dr. and Mrs. Joshua A. Thomason

Mr. and Mrs. William B. Thompson

Mr. Dale Tino

Mr. and Mrs. James B. Warren

Mr. and Mrs. R. Don White

In memory of John and Joyce Gatz

Mr. and Mrs. Tony Winter

In memory of Joyce Gatz

Mr. and Mrs. Van Thompson

In memory of Margie Griswold

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey L. Warwick

In memory of George Handley

Ms. Deborah Handley

In memory of Bill Hankla

Mr. and Mrs. Joel P. Tarpley

In memory of Coach Junior Hayes

Mrs. Mildred J. Hayes

In memory of Vernon Cobham and Gloria Henry

Mr. and Mrs. Mark J. Dawson

In memory of Ron Hicks

Mr. Jackie Bradford

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Brown

Mr. and Mrs. James E. Combee

The ENT Center of Central GA P.C.

Dr. and Mrs. David L. Fincher

Mr. and Mrs. Clyde C. Head, Jr.

Mrs. Janet Hicks

Mr. and Mrs. James Hudson Mr. Nathan Smith

In memory of Lawrence Holts, Sr. Mrs. Doris Holts

Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Holts, Jr.

In memory of Dallva Horn

Mr. and Mrs. James R. Henderson Mr. and Mrs. Randall R. Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Duane D. Pritchett

In memory of Charles and Cora Huguely Mr. and Mrs. Garrick J. Riley

In memory of Henry T. Hunt, Jr.

In memory of John and Mitzi Janowski Ms. Jean M. Rawls

In memory of Sally Lehr Drs. Jeffrey and Carolyn Facteau Mr. and Mrs. David A. Ridenour

In memory of Dwight Love Mrs. Donna S. Love Mr. and Mrs. Christopher D. McIntyre

In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Nilas Odell Manley Mr. and Mrs. Nilas A. Manley

In memory of Bob Mason Mr. and Mrs. Brett E. Mason In memory of Shirley McIndoo Mr. and Mrs. Donald R. McLaughlin

In memory of Patricia McWilliams Mr. and Mrs. Henry A. Justice, III Mr. and Mrs. John P. Reiboldt Mr. and Mrs. William B. Stark, Jr Ms. Lindsey Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Ingram D. Tynes

In memory of Norma Miller Ms. Barbara L. Porter

In memory of Paul Ong Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Ong

In memory of Patricia Orchard Mr. and Mrs. John Cole Mr. and Mrs. Scott Gray Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey B. Hicks Mr. and Mrs. John Webb

In memory of Kostantinos Poulokefalos Mr. Amar Aburas and Mrs. Nicol Karatzas

In memory of Diane Price Ms. Heather P. Manso

In memory of Hank Prickett Mr. and Mrs. Ronald L. Cox

In memory of Jim Ridenour Mr. and Mrs. David A. Ridenour

In memory of Steve Smartt Ms. Kim P. Smartt

In memory of Margie A. Smith Dr. and Mrs. Joshua A. Thomason

In memory of Peggy “Mimi” Jean Moore Sparks Mr. and Mrs. Israel Sparks

In memory of Lynn “Mams” Swafford Mr. Thomas J. Swafford, Jr.

In memory of Warren and Martha Thomason

Mr. and Mrs. Dave Williamson

In memory of Claudia Vargas Dr. Claudia A. Vargas

In memory of Dr. Kenneth C. Williams

Mr. and Mrs. Edward W. Davidson, Jr.

In memory of Sean Emir Wilson, Sr. Ms. Kimberly M. Wilson

In memory of Betty Winkle Dr. and Mrs. Joshua A. Thomason

In memory of George and Shelbia Yates

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey L. Black

In memory of Edmond Yuen Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Ong

Gifts made between October 15, 2020 through October 11, 2021. Gifts made prior to this date were listed in the previous magazine.

GAC Remembers

It is with a heavy heart that we recognize the passing of our fellow alumni and faculty and staff members.

Ben Born (1950-2021)

Ben worked in GAC Campus Services, retiring in 2016. His 28 years of ministry to the GAC family as a knowledgeable problem solver and talented craftsman are honored as part of our Heroes of the Faith in the Bricked Gallery.

Ray Cozart (1950-2021)

Ray served in GAC Campus Services. He enjoyed the GAC community along with his wife Barbara and their daughter Sandra (Cozart) Hopkins ’78.

Kathy Rabren (1935 – 2021)

In the early 1970s, Kathy served as Administrative Assistant to GAC Principal and Academic Vice President Jackie Bradford. She was deeply involved in GAC along with her husband Ken as the mother of Patti (Nolan) Smith ’74 and William “Jack” Nolan ’81.

In Memoriam

Edward “Knox” Martin – Class of 2015 (1996 – 2020)

Brandon Mauldin – Class of 2011 (1992-2021)

Sunny Patel – Class of 2011 (1993-2020)

Dallva Horn – Class of 1992 (1973-2021)

Charles Spraggins – Class of 1988 (1969-2021)

William “Ed” Kelly – Class of 1985 (1966-2021)

Russell Johnson – Class of 1982 (1964-2021)

Jana Tabor – Class of 1982 (1964-2021)

Joe Hogan – Class of 1980 (1962-2021)

Jeff Ryan – Class of 1972 (1954-2021)

James “Bill” Eddins – Class of 1971 (1953-2021)

Mr. and Mrs. Clark Leave a Legacy through the Clark Living Trust

Wyman and Mary Frances Clark cared about Christian education and had a special appreciation for the GAC mission.

From the 1990’s on, the Clarks made numerous gifts to GAC in their working and retired years. Yet, they wanted to do more when they could. To accomplish that, nearly 20 years ago, they reflected on God’s will for what they might leave behind, and made plans that at their passing, GAC would receive a meaningful portion of their estate, through the Clark Living Trust. In their 90’s, both Mr. and Mrs. Clark passed away recently and went home to God. Now, their wishes are being fulfilled.

The work of GAC will go on with strength and support because they saw GAC as their way to reach the next generation. What’s your way to reach the next generation? As you reflect on your next will or time for estate planning, will you help change children in lasting ways through GAC? If we can assist with particular dreams you have, or with any aspect of your planning, we stand ready to help.

Have you already included GAC in your planned giving? If so, please let us know. We will want to thank you, assist in any way we can, and keep you informed of the work you will make possible for years to come too. Your legacy matters.

If you are interested in providing a planned gift for GAC please contact David Fincher, Chancellor at dfincher@greateratlantachristian.org.

FERNANDO NASMYTH,

Mr. Boards

STEVE EATON, CHAIR GAC Foundation Board of

He previously of the Board of Saint Joseph’s Saint Joseph’s Eaton as a board member Southeast, Bridge Fund Project Open and

The GACS Board of charts the

GAC Lifers, Class of 2021

Joseph Aboukhaled, Christian Alvear, Abby Cole, Wil Collins, Mary Ellis Davies, Katia Dominguez, Nathan Dybdahl, Tori Eberhart, Anthony El-Khoury, Paige Evans, Layla Fabec, Olivia Finazzo, Ammaar Gandhi, Parker Hallock, Tre Henry, Hudson Higgins, Ansley Hill, Liam Hosfeld, Vanessa Huynh, Pierce Joglekar, Danielle Jones, Davis Keller, Walker Lewis, Rohan Makim, Max Martin, Connor Maxa, Maya McFadden, Talia Miller, Jack Olinger, Mitsue Ostapi uk, Abagale Payne, Parker Quisling, Miller Rich, Jasmine Scruggs, Kirsten Shinn, Belle Shirley, Tripp Shumard, Maya Sultan, Alex Winsness, Brandon Wright. Not pictured: Maggie Nicholl and Pierson Read.

These members of the class of 2021 have attended GAC since kindergarten. We affectionately call them “Lifers”. We wish you well and know that you will be a light in the world, leading in a faithful way.