Blueprint Magazine | Summer 2022 by Girls Preparatory School

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BLUE PRINT T H E M A G A Z I N E of G I R L S P R E PA R AT O R Y S C H O O L

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A Day in the Life of today's GPS girl

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Introducing Our Newest Heads, Deans, and Directors joining us this fall

2021-22 Year in Review

A Look Back as We Plan Ahead

BRUISER

Beat

#BELIKEBETTS

REUNION

During this year’s Our Girls | Our GPS Online Auction, fan-favorite Katherine Betts ’76 upped the ante with her Picks of the Day. The Instagram reel of her in the kitchen with Chef Brad to highlight the cooking package was especially popular.

WEEKEND

CELEBRIT Y SIGHTING

On a Winterim trip to Disney World, some of our seniors were a bit starstruck when they bumped into country music singer-songwriter Thomas Rhett in one of the parks. Maybe that’s why they call it the happiest place on Earth?!

The GPS Main Gym was completely transformed into a special event space so that we could honor our alumnae from the classes ending in 2 and 7. Special awards were presented, and Head of School Megan Cover shared her inspiring vision for our school.

COLLEGE DECISION DAY

A HEARTWARMING STORY

Coach Susan Crownover was featured in CityScope magazine earlier this year in a story about living organ donor and recipient pairs. Crownover received a kidney from the mother of her son’s (atthe-time girlfriend, now) wife, and they spoke about the experience. Talk about bonded for life!

May brings all sorts of exciting events for our graduating seniors, one of which is College Decision Day! This year our girls celebrated with lunch and cake at Founder’s House, and they each announced their new college by sporting a school sweatshirt! See page 11 for a complete list.

POPPYSEED CHICKEN FOR THE WIN!

The results are in, and (likely to no one’s surprise) poppyseed chicken reigns supreme as the most popular GPS lunch! We simply couldn’t resist this TikTok trend!

CELEBRATING NEW BRUISERS

Our post about our celebration boxes, which were hand-delivered to accepted students on Decision Day, was a hit! We went with the “partyin-a-box” theme and gave our girls all sorts of fun new Bruiser swag. Read more on page 6!

STAY IN THE KNOW Keep up with GPS on social media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. Above are some of the most popular posts from this year. Be sure to follow us for the most up-to-date happenings and share in the Bruiser conversation. SEARCH @GPSBRUISERS TO FOLLOW ALONG! 2

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2022-23 ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM Head of School Megan D. Cover Associate Head of School and Head of Middle School Lynne Macziewski

On the Cover: From the Class of 2022, Ansley Blevins secures the cap of KiKi Moody. Photo by Emily Lester Photography.

Table of Contents 2 | Bruiser Beat 5 |A Message from Our Head of School

Head of Upper School Beth Creswell Wilson ’96 Chief Advancement Officer Ali Gant

6 | Here Come the Bruisers!

Chief Financial Officer Mark Vosskamp

8 | May Day

A look at the GPS admission process

10 | Commencement

Consultant to the Head of School on Strategic Initiatives Bilda Acuña Small

12 | Class Day

Director of Admission and Enrollment Managment Alice Smith Harris ’03

18 | Athletics

Director of Athletics Jay Watts

29 | Kaleidoscope

13 | A round GPS

24 | Fine & Performing Arts

30 | I ntroducing Our Newest Heads, Deans, & Directors

Director of Belonging and Community Engagement Lauren Lawrence Swanson ’09 Director of College Counseling Andrew Reich Director of Communications and Marketing Pamela Hammonds

joining us this fall

40 | A Day in the Life of Today's GPS girl

May Day

44 | L eading the Charge

Seniors elected to leadership positions for the 2022-23 school year share their goals

Director of Development Lisa Reynolds Shanahan ’83

EDITORIAL STAFF Lucy Morris Blancett ’09 Pamela Hammonds Rachael Land ’12 Caitlin Riddle Contributing Photographers Emily Lester Kajsa Swanson Blueprint is published by Girls Preparatory School P.O. Box 4736 Chattanooga, TN 37405 423.634.7600 | GPS.edu Printed by Creative Business Forms

46 | L earning Through Experience Winterim for Middle School Girls

Here Come the Bruisers! Our Admission process gives us lots of reasons to celebrate.

A Day in the Life of Today's GPS Girl Follow the timelines of two Middle and Upper School students to learn how our girls spend their days!

In an effort to adopt mindful printing practices, GPS mails one magazine per household. If you would like to receive additional copies, please contact Blueprint@GPS.edu.

50 | Class Notes 54 | Alum Updates 57 | L eaving a Legacy

Honoring our retirees and their lasting impact on GPS

62 | S o Long, Farewell

Honoring long-time faculty and staff heading for new adventures

68 | D evelopment Updates

Message from Advancement Reunion Weekend 2022 Across the Miles with Megan

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

A MESSAGE FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL | MEGAN D. COVER

t’s been said of parenting that the days are long but the years go by quickly. I believe the same can be said about life as a head of school. Already a year has passed since our family made the move to Chattanooga to join the GPS community, and I can’t believe how fast the last 12 months have gone by. And yet, when I reflect on the 2021-22 school year, much has happened on 205 Island Avenue and more is still on our horizon as we continue the legacy of our great school. I thank you for your continued partnership and trust as we inspire, guide, and lift up our girls for success and engagement as they matriculate into the next stage of their educational journey. It is my honor to lead this great school with a rich heritage of academic excellence, unique traditions, and a proud community that celebrates and values our girls. We recognize that the world is changing rapidly and the workplace and communities of the near future will demand unique skills and experiences from girls and the women they become. GPS can do more to support girls so they will be ready to lead and thrive with confidence and purpose. Our vision forward is to celebrate each girl for the unique gifts she brings to our school, on campus and off, prioritizing healthy connections and relationships while fostering a culture where she is known, she is heard, and she is empowered to use her voice. This culture of acceptance and belonging nurtures and lifts her up in mind, body, and spirit so that she can find her place and discover her potential with confidence and joy.

As we chart our future, we will:

The new Megan D. Cover boat is added to the GPS rowing fleet.

» b uild on our strengths, honor our mission and legacy, and focus on developing a learnercentered program designed for the unique social-emotional and developmental needs of girls; » be forward thinking and innovative, embracing our strengths in liberal arts education while emphasizing purpose-based and experiential learning opportunities; » build a school culture on the timeless principles of empathy, connections and relationships; » give girls an educational experience that is transformational, not transactional; » support and encourage girls to achieve a balance of learning and well-being; and » build life-skills, such as agency, advocacy, creativity, critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, communication, resilience, and adaptability. All of our efforts will be framed by creating a culture of belonging where every girl is celebrated, encouraged, and supported. Of course, all we do centers on our mission of inspiring each girl to lead a life of integrity and purpose by engaging her mind, cultivating her strengths, and nurturing her self-confidence and respect for others, and our values of honor, respect, curiosity, individuality, relationships. Throughout my first year as Head of GPS, I’ve enjoyed getting to know our students, parents, faculty, staff, alumnae, and trustees—those who love and support our school’s mission and values. With great optimism and excitement for what lies ahead, I carry the torch forward into the 2022-23 school year.

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

Here’s to the girls and the women they become!

Initiatives for the 117th Year of GPS

BELONGING AND COMMUNIT Y ENGAGEMENT: We will continue to

ensure that each girl feels valued, loved, and supported and are committed to make connections within the greater Chattanooga community to grow an intentional culture of service and altruism.

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES PROGRAM REQUIREMENT PILOT: All students will be

PARTNERSHIP WITH MCCALLIE:

GPS and McCallie are committed to strengthening our coordinate programs to include more opportunities for our students to experience the best of both worlds.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETICS: We will offer cheerleading to our sixth-grade students in the fall as well as squash in the winter for eighth grade and Upper School. For Middle School sports, we will officially move to a “no-cut” policy, where we focus on building our athletic talent and skills in our girls from the moment they arrive at GPS.

CURRICUL AR DESIGN TEAM: 18 members of faculty and staff will chart the direction of our academic program.

THE TEACHING AND LEARNING CENTER: The Center will support all students while providing professional development opportunities and support for faculty members.

COLLEGE COUNSELING OFFICE:

We will reimagine the College Counseling experience for each girl as she chooses where she will continue her journey and how she will make a difference in our world. »

HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER: The Center will house our new school nurse and serve as a place where students find physical and social-emotional balance and support.

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: Work is underway to beautify our campus to reflect the value and excellence of our school. We will begin the master planning process so that our learnercentered culture is reflected from the inside out.

RENOVATION OF THE MILLS (FRIERSON THEATER) LOBBY: This updated design will reflect our commitment to

STRATEGIC DESIGN AND ACCREDITATION:

We will collaborate on a community-wide strategic design and accreditation process, ensuring we provide a robust GPS experience that remains true to our Founders’ vision and our mission for future generations.

highly encouraged to participate in afterschool art, athletic, or cocurricular activities through the school year to explore areas of interest and develop their passions alongside their academic course load.

common spaces that celebrate community and connection, as well as honor our history and traditions.

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

HERE COME THE BRUISERS!

ALICE SMITH HARRIS ’03

Director of Admission and Enrollment Management From open houses to Q&A sessions, tailgates, theater performances, and more, families are invited to engage with GPS in a variety of ways throughout the year.

Here Come the Bruisers! A LOOK AT THE GPS ADMISSION PROCESS By Alice Smith Harris ’03, Director of Admission and Enrollment Management

WHEN I ASK MY CHILD what his favorite day of the year is, he might say one of two days: his birthday or Christmas. My five-year-old sees the number 25 and immediately says, “That's Christmas!” regardless if it’s October, January, or July. When someone asks me my favorite day, I quickly say, “Decision Day!”

Why, you ask? The fruits of our labor in the Admission Office have finally been realized when we get to hit LIVE on the email, informing girls and their families of our offer for them to join the GPS sisterhood. While the 2021-22 admission season is behind us, I can say with full confidence the GPS community—teachers, students, parents, and alumnae—have showcased what GPS is and can be for future Bruisers. Leading a dedicated team who embodies day after day the lifelong benefits and value of a single-sex education is an easy job. When you firmly believe in what happens inside the walls of our classrooms, the lessons learned on and off the court/field/ water, the safe risks that take place in the STEM classes, it’s easy to share how GPS impacts the future and growth of so many young women.

STUDENT VISIT DAYS

Student Visit Days allow girls to come to campus to get a feel for the typical GPS day. She attends classes, goes to lunch, meets with clubs, and even attends Chapel at the end of the day.

Of course, we recognize the admission process is top of mind for those of us who experience it every day in the office and for those exploring GPS. But for many, you may be a bit more distanced from admission these days. So, we wanted to share a look into our process throughout the year beyond the application. WON'T YOU JOIN US?

Prospective students connect with a current student and shadows her throughout the day, all while meeting the teachers who would teach her the following year and other girls who might be her classmates.

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

SHOWCASING OUR CAMPUS

We believe the best way to get a feel for the true GPS experience is by stepping on campus and seeing it for yourself! The magic of this school is best seen to be believed. Toward the beginning of the admission process (and any other time they would like to return!), we encourage families to visit campus for a campus tour, led by an admission counselor and a current student. This is a great way to get a glimpse into our classrooms and to experience the everyday joy that connects our days. Depending on a girl’s interests, tours can be customized so that she and her family can really get a feel for where her place at GPS might be.

HERE COME THE BRUISERS!

INFORMING THROUGH EVENTS

We know that making a decision on where their daughter will spend the next several years receiving an education is a big deal. That’s why we make it a priority to answer any and all questions families may have about the process, the all-girls environment, the homework, the teachers, the coordinate opportunities—you name it—so families can make the most informed decisions. CONNECTING PROSPECTIVE AND CURRENT FAMILIES

This year, we wanted to provide yet another way for those exploring GPS for their daughters to get a feel for the community and experience as a whole. Designed to connect prospective families with current families, alumnae, and past families, PeerPal, a custom communication platform, allows interested parties to learn more about GPS by reaching out directly to current parents. After reading parent bios on our website, those who wish to connect with someone can reach out directly to ask any questions. Whatever the connection, an authentic conversation can help our prospective families feel like part of the community from the beginning. CELEBRATING OUR NEW STUDENTS

ADMISSION EVENTS

Join the fun and learn what makes GPS the best place for girls! See upcoming events at GPS.edu/Visit.

CONNECT WITH CURRENT FAMILIES

Visit GPS.edu/ Admission to begin a conversation.

The Admission team sent out celebration boxes to each of our newly admitted students on March 5. Our creative Marketing and Communications team designed a personalized “celebration in a box” for each girl. As they cued the confetti, popped the top on a personalized Jones soda, unwrapped a GPS dress cookie, and more, we cheered along with them! LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT STEP

In May, we welcomed all of our newly enrolled families back to campus for an annual favorite—New Bruiser Celebration. This picnic-themed event introduces new students to some of the faculty and staff they will interact with regularly, to help girls meet their new classmates, and to encourage parents to get to know each other. As a surprise, all new students received a limited edition sweatshirt to rock from day one and a yard sign to share their exciting news with neighbors! After countless curated events for our youngest applicants, thoughtful parent conversations and family tours, outreach from our dedicated families, and personalized notes our amazing student ambassadors have written about their GPS experience—each future Bruiser has experienced the best our school has to offer. As a result, we look forward to welcoming our newest Bruisers—the entire new Class of 2029 and additional students in grades seven through 11. Among them are dancers and athletes, girls who love cheering and riding horses, artists and scientists. They come from more than 20 zip codes in Tennessee and Georgia. And some are relocating with their families from states outside the Southeast. We can't wait to welcome them to campus soon because one thing is for certain: They are right where they belong!

TO BEST COMPREHEND HOW GPS PREPARES GIRLS FOR COLLEGE AND BEYOND, SEE PAGES 50-53 TO READ ABOUT SOME OF OUR IMPRESSIVE ALUMNAE.

HERE’S TO THE GIRLS!

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

May Day A Return to Form It’s a tradition students look forward to throughout their years at GPS, and this year’s celebration was one for the ages. The long-awaited May Day celebration of our May Queen, court, and graduating seniors saw a return to form this year, with the festivities taking place, once again, on Smith Courtyard. Last year’s May Day featured COVID-19 precautions that included moving the fete from the Smith Courtyard to the lower athletic field, distancing students in the viewing areas, and creating seating pods for families. It was also the first time in history that the maypole dance was expanded from three to five maypoles—a move designed to allow the junior class students, who were unable to participate in the honor the year prior, to join in the fun.

Selecting the May Court Though May Day doesn’t take place until spring, the excitement surrounding the festivities begins much earlier. In December, the seniors nominate members of the May Court by selecting classmates who: » » » » » »

Represent their senior class in the highest sense Are gracious, friendly, and loyal to friends and to GPS Are actively and enthusiastically involved in the life of GPS Eagerly give of their time and their talents Stand for the highest ideals in character and integrity Are respected and admired by fellow schoolmates and faculty alike

2022 May Court Following nominations, the entire student body votes for the queen and her court. The 2022 May Court included (from left): Julia Love Combs, Crown Bearer; Frances Jean Crowe, Left Train Bearer; Jenna Corley Brown, Right Train Bearer; Shalizeh Fatima Rizvi, May Queen; Louisa Sutton Bohner, Maid of Honor; Olivia Catherine Burns, Lady of the Court; and Mary Katherine Johnson, Scepter Bearer.

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

MAY DAY

Nostalgia: Blast from Our Past This year’s May Day theme, selected by the May Day committee, was an effervescent nod to some of the most iconic moments, people, and cultural milestones from their childhoods. Head of Upper School Jenise Gordon, who emceed the event, said, “Nostalgia will allow these seniors to return, any time they like, to dwell in this place of learning, nurturing, and love—to remember years of joy they spent together. And to remember, specifically, this day.” Following the senior promenade, seventh- through 11thgrade classes danced to choreography from iconic pop hits, Disney Channel Original Movies, television theme songs, and more, and the traditional maypole was danced. The earworms were likely stuck in attendees' heads for days!

A Legacy of Sisterhood It’s tradition each year to capture a photo on May Day of the graduating seniors whose mothers (and sometimes grandmothers!) also attended GPS. The Class of 2022 featured 24 legacies whose families were present for the celebration.

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Commencement

In her first Commencement charge as the GPS Head of School, Megan D. Cover addressed the Class of 2022, acknowledging their incredible commitment to their school and GPS sisters through the turmoil and uncertainty of the past few years. “Your shared adversity and your ability to make the most of an unpredictable future has forever bonded your class,” she said. “Throughout all of the plans made and then rescheduled, you never stopped demonstrating empathy and kindness to each other.”

characterized by growth. “I feel confident that regardless of what life throws our way, everything will be all right if we just keep dancing like we’re the Class of ’22. Let’s live our lives in a way that reflects the values we’ve come to honor here. As we go to college and beyond, let’s connect with others in the way we strived so tirelessly to do in the early middle school days. Let’s be resilient in the face of adversity as we’ve been all throughout high school. Let’s find people like our classmates, who will always share in our adventures and make us comfortable to be unashamedly ourselves.”

Emphasizing the importance of remaining in the present, Cover encouraged the graduates to look around, pause, breathe, take a snapshot of the historical day, and feel the love that They did it! surrounded them. She said, “This moment On May 14, 89 seniors culminates your incredible journey at GPS, from the Class of 2022 this time celebrates you.” She concluded her speech by thanking the Class of 2022 graduated in the for their grace, guidance, inspiration, 116th Commencement thoughtfulness, and joy. “Just as the exercises of Girls bridges in Chattanooga connect one side of the river to the other, you will always be Preparatory School. my first connection to this incredible school and the sisterhood that unites each GPS girl.” VALEDICTORY ADDRESS

This year, the Ethel B. Poston Valedictorian honor was awarded to Lauren Thacker, who likened the Class of 2022 to a favorite song of theirs—“22” by Taylor Swift. She used lyrics from the song to remind her classmates about the mixed emotions that came with the first day of sixth grade, the transition to Upper School, learning through a pandemic, and finding friends and passions along the way. Her class, she said, has not been afraid to be authentically themselves through it all, and their time at GPS has been 10

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

SENIOR SPEAKER

As is tradition, prior to Commencement, the members of the senior class select one Chapel Talk to be presented during the ceremony. This year, Julia Combs was awarded that honor. In her speech, she likened her time at GPS to a puzzle, acknowledging that she and her classmates are placing their final pieces at GPS as they go on to begin new ones in college. “As I marvel at the almost complete puzzle, I am starting to see that this one is special. We will always continue to grow off of this puzzle each of us have started here at GPS.”

PARTING THOUGHTS

After the student speeches, Clay Watson, Chair of the Board of Trustees, addressed the class. “You may not realize it until you get to college, but one day soon you will look back on your time at 205 Island Avenue and realize that you were part of something really special. That your education and experience has set you up for success in life. No matter what path you choose, what degree or degrees you earn, GPS is an important part of your story, and we are proud to say you are an important part of ours.”

Class of 2022

Where Oh Wheres

Abigail Elaine Austin | George Mason University Susannah Givens Baker* | Appalachian State University Edie Carden Beagles | Samford University Kate Bell Becksvoort* | Elon University Ansley Grace Blevins | Middle Tennessee State University Louisa Sutton Bohner* | Auburn University Madeline Grace Brock | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Jenna Corley Brown | Mississippi State University+ Alice Kennedy Brown* | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Olivia Catherine Burns | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Mary Catherine Clelland* | University of Maryland, College Park Madison Rhodes Clower* | East Tennessee State University Alyse Lillian Coakley | Tulane University+ Julia Love Combs | Colby College+ Frances Jean Crowe | University of Denver Allyson Leah Daniel | College of Charleston Madeline Kate Davidson | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Hannah Kathleen Eftink | Wake Forest University Katharine Bibb Eyster | The University of Alabama Caroline Elizabeth Farris* | New York University Graci Madge Felker | Butler University Isabella Kathryn Fivas | Oxford College of Emory University Madeleine Elizabeth Flynn | West Virginia University Savannah Grace Friant | Baylor University Endya Alexis Gaines | Agnes Scott College Molly Anne Gallagher | Loyola University Chicago Trinity Claire Greene | University of Mississippi Lily Grace Greenwood | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville+ Emma Grace Hamilton | Lee University Laci Grace Holt | Middle Tennessee State University Madalyn Grace Hubbard | Huntingdon College Caroline Marie Hutcherson | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Ella Gertrude Ingalls | University of Massachusetts, Amherst Mary Evangeline Jackson | University of Mississippi+ Mary Katherine Johnson | Tulane University+ Abigail Leigh Johnston | Mississippi State University Sarah Caroline Kalla* | The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga+ Merritt Isabella Kelley* | University of Georgia Kathryn Ella Michele Kraus | Fordham University Emily Catherine Kreek | College of Charleston+ Abigail Grace Kueter | University of San Diego Hannah Lauren Levin | American University Ann Marie Lindley | University of Georgia Catherine Grace Lynch | University of Alabama, Birmingham Manasa Shanker Makam | Purdue University

Lillian Grace Marshall | Samford University Elena Jean McDonald | Tennessee Technological University Gabriella Alexandra Meadows* | The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Madison Jon Meek | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Charlotte Emeline Megahee | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Willa Grace Mirmelstein* | George Washington University Aarushi Chandresh Modi | University of Alabama, Huntsville Kennedy Brooke Moody | Tennessee Technological University Camilla Florence Alice Mook* | Sewanee: The University of the South Chloe Margrethe Newman | Maastricht University Hannah Kate Newman | The University of Alabama+ Chloe Magdalena Nicola | Georgia Institute of Technology Claire Christine Nicola | Webster University Brooke Claire Niemeyer* | University of Kentucky+ Mary Claire Nimon | Samford University+ Caraline Elise Paty* | Middle Tennessee State University Lily Nicole Petree | Maryville College+ Abbey Katelyn Pettus | Rensselaer Polytechnic University Christiana Jade Polk | Loyola University Chicago Abigail Claire Prescott | The University of Alabama+ Catherine Frances Pritchard* | John Cabot University Alana Danielle Ratchford | Auburn University Abbie Luanne Reel | East Tennessee State University Emily Denise Richardson | University of Kentucky Emelia Foerster Richey | Washington and Lee University Shalizeh Fatima Rizvi | Loyola University Chicago Elizabeth Blair Rogers* | Auburn University Rosemary Gardner Rustand* | University of Kentucky Minah Nasrin Jane Sadrabadi* | Washington and Lee University Hanna Grace Schmidt* | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Ava Craton Scotchie | Texas Christian University Olivia Jaspin Scotchie | Baylor University Kylie Brighton Smith | James Madison University Maggie Elizabeth Stevens | The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Savannah Lee Stout | University of Alabama, Huntsville DeMoss Grace Stribling* | Auburn University Ellen Eades Taliaferro* | Vanderbilt University Lauren Elizabeth Thacker | Gap year with the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (Russian); University of Georgia+ Ruth Harper Wamack* | Samford University Clayton Steele Watson* | Texas Christian University Kennedy Price Watson* | Texas Christian University Emma-Kate Alexandria White | Sewanee: The University of the South Julia Caroline Watson Wiedmer | University of Kentucky Samantha Diama Williams | George Washington University

* Denotes GPS legacy | + Denotes honor college or other selective program G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

CLASS DAY Class Day ceremonies recognized students with awards in academics, character, the arts, athletics, and more.

MIDDLE SCHOOL AWARDS SIXTH-GRADE AWARDS

Margaret Wheland Cate Award Daisy Hammond ’28 SEVENTH-GRADE AWARDS

Schmidt-Thedford Award Amiya Phade ’27

EIGHTH-GRADE AWARDS

Janet Campbell Jackson Award Paulina Proshkin ’26 DAR Youth Citizenship Award Madaline Burnett ’26 Joan Haley Frierson Award Emma Rose Pratt ’26

UPPER SCHOOL AWARDS SENIOR AWARDS

Ethel B. Poston Valedictorian Award Lauren Thacker ’22 Rickie Pierce Salutatorian Award Abbey Katelyn Pettus ’22 Mary Hannah Tucker Faculty Award Olivia Burns ’22 Founders Award Lauren Thacker ’22 Daughters of the American Revolution Award Emmy Richey ’22 Pete Wood Award Louisa Bohner ’22 Jane Henegar Noble Christian Award Jenna Brown ’22 Betsy Chisolm Silberman Award Shalizeh Rizvi ’22 Laura Handly Award Willa Mirmelstein ’22 Roberta Moore Award Julia Combs ’22 Barbara Johnson Prickett Award Mary Kate Johnson ’22 CHARACTER AWARDS

Marilyn Sherman Center Award Gwyneth Parks ’25

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

Freshman Cup Ella Beth Wiedmer ’25 Dora Maclellan Brown Christian Leadership Award Mabry Cook ’25 Sophomore Bowl Ella Harris ’24 Dorris Chapin Wells Award Abigail Carpenter ’24 Battle Award McKamey Bratcher ’23 Palmer Griffin Award Soree Kim ’23 ATHLETIC AWARDS

Robinson Sportsmanship Cup Gardner Rustand ’22 Mary Alice Hood Chambers Award Farah House ’26 Elizabeth Collier Farmer Award Gracie Pritchett ’24 Laura Holt Outstanding Athlete Award Kennedy Ball ’23 Sandra Martin Award CJ Polk ’22 Peggy Thomas 100% Award Louisa Bohner ’22

VISIT GPS.EDU/ NEWS TO READ MORE ABOUT THE AWARDS PRESENTED.

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS AWARDS

Award for Excellence in Choral Arts Sarah Kalla ’22 Terpsichord Award Graci Felker ’22

Award for Excellence in the Visual Arts Caroline Farris ’22 Excellence in Dramatic Arts Aarushi Modi ’22 Fletcher W. Bright Fellowship Rowan Espy ’23

Emmy Richey ’22, Latin Abby Claire Prescott ’22, Spanish Award for Excellence in History Ellie Fivas ’22 Award for Excellence in Math Abbey Katelyn Pettus ’22 Award for Excellence in Computer Science & Engineering Abi Austin ’22

ACADEMIC AWARDS

Award for Excellence in Science Aarushi Modi ’22

Eula Lea Jarnagin Love of Language Award Manasa Makam ’22, French

William C. McKenzie Award Ellie Fivas ’22

Mildred Peters Award for English Emma Hamilton ’22

PUBLICATIONS AWARD

AROUNDGPS National Merit Scholarship Program As juniors, the GPS Class of 2022 took the 2020 PSAT/NMSQT, which served as the initial screen of nearly 1 million entrants to the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program. According to the program, the Selection Index scores of students who met program participation requirements were used to designate a pool of approximately 16,000 Semifinalists nationwide on a state allocation basis. 1 L AUREN THACKER was named a Finalist in the Program; four students were named Commended: 2 ELLIE FIVAS, 3 AARUSHI MODI, 4 CHLOE NEWMAN, and 5 ABBEY KATELYN PETTUS.

Welcome to Cum Laude Fifteen seniors from the Class of 2022 were honored with the highest academic accolade bestowed at GPS—induction in Cum Laude. Each student was welcomed with a message from the faculty member of her choice. M ARY CATHERINE CLELL AND, Mentor: Dr. Ralph Covino; ALYSE COAKLEY, Mentor: Ms. Katelyn Dix; FRANCES CROWE , Mentor: Mrs. Erin Davis Sizemore ’98; HANNAH EF TINK , Mentor: Dr. Andrea Becksvoort; ELLIE FIVAS, Mentor: Dr. Derek Gromadzki; EMM A HAMILTON, Mentor: Ms. Jenise Gordon; WILL A MIRMELSTEIN, Mentor: Ms. Kathleen Berotti; A ARUSHI MODI, Mentor: Mr. Mark Krawczyk; CHLOE NEWM AN, Mentor: Dr. Steve Harrison; CHLOE NICOL A , Mentor: Mr. Chris Zeller; ABBEY K ATELYN PET TUS, Mentor: Mr. Bryant Haynes; EMMY RICHEY, Mentor: Dr. Brandon Noel; MINAH SADRABADI, Mentor: Ms. Callie Hamilton; ELLIE TALIAFERRO, Mentor: Mrs. Diane Walker; L AUREN THACKER, Mentor:

SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

L AUREN THACKER ’22

Grace McCallie Scholarship Recipient

ANISHA PHADE ’23

Duffy-Jarnagin Scholarship Recipient

Dr. Brandon Guernsey

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

AROUND GPS

NATIONAL BETA CLUB

25 students were inducted into the GPS chapter of the National Beta Club, which honors upper school students who demonstrate achievement by maintaining a high GPA, character by upholding the GPS ideals of honor, and leadership through service to the school and the community.

5 students were accepted to Governor’s School; 5 different programs were represented. 1 JA'NIAH COOPER ’23, School for International Studies; 2 ARYSA KAYASIT ’24, School for Scientific Exploration of Tennessee Heritage; 3 COLETTE SMITH ’23, School for the Arts for Vocal Performance; 4 MORGAN SUMMERLIN ’23, School of Emerging Technologies; and 5 ANABEL WILSON ’23, School for Humanities.

CHATTANOOGA REGIONAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FAIR GPS Honors Chemistry students participated in the Chattanooga Regional Science and Engineering Fair at UTC. Individual honors were presented to sophomores CAROLINE BARNES, LUCIE DEGAETANO, ELL A HARRIS, MAGDA SASS, and TEAGAN TOBIAS, as well as junior AP Biology student ANYA PARAMBATH, whose project

garnered her an invitation to the 2022 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Atlanta, where she joined .01 percent of high school students from around the world to present her work, an AI algorithm that will diagnose melanoma via a cell phone photo.

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National Honor Society In March, the newest members of the GPS National Honor Society were inducted. The national organization recognizes upper school students who provide evidence of strong scholarship, service, leadership, and character.

« «

La Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica In May, the GPS Spanish Honor Society welcomed its newest members.

La Société Honoraire De Français This spring, we welcomed our newest members into the GPS French Honor Society.

AROUND GPS

MATTIE HAND ’28, LENI HIMROD ’28, HARPER POOLE ’28, and RYLEE WILLIAMS ’28

were named quarterfinalists in the MATHCOUNTS Foundation Math Video Challenge for their film “Old McMathy’s Farm.” The Math Video Challenge is a project-based team contest in which students create a video that shows a solution to a MATHCOUNTS problem in a real-world setting.

TENNESSEE SOUTHEAST REGIONAL CONTEST OF NATIONAL HISTORY DAY 17 GPS STUDENTS CAME HOME WITH EITHER A FIRST- OR SECOND-PLACE MEDAL. 5 GPS PROJECTS WERE AWARDED PRIZES.

GPS STUDENTS SHOW KNOWLEDGE OF WORLD LANGUAGES

Robotics Competition Under the leadership of computer science teacher April Ross, the Middle School Robotics Team won the Champion Award and prize money at the inaugural MATE ROV Competition this spring, held at the GPS pool. Team members include: MACY POOLE, MIA BRUNETZ, ADREANNA CALLOWAY, and LIVIA FURR, all from

the Class of 2026.

SWENEXT COMPETITION

Four GPS teams participated in the Society of Women Engineers - Next Generation annual Test of Engineering Aptitude in Math and Science. This year’s theme was “Engineering in Entertainment,” and students competed in three sections: multiple choice, essay, and a building competition. The GPS A Team placed sixth in the state.

AMIYA PHADE '27

EighthGrade Celebration The Class of 2026 is ready to take the next step—across the lawn to Upper School! On a bright Thursday evening, friends and family looked on as the members of the eighth-grade class received certificates to signify the successful completion of their Middle School coursework. The ceremony included student speeches as well as remarks from Head of Middle School Lynne Macziewski and a charge from Dean of the Eighth-Grade Class Jordan McCarter ’96.

NATIONAL SPANISH EXAM, sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish & Porteguese:

» » » » »

23 students earned honors and awards 1 gold medalist 6 silver medalists 4 bronze medalists 12 honorees for honorable mention

FRENCH CONTEST/LE GRAND CONCOURS, sponsored by the American

Association of Teachers of French

» 5 honorees for honorable mention NATIONAL L ATIN EXAM, sponsored by

the U.S.-based American Classical League and the National Junior Classical League » » » »

8 students earned honors and awards 5 silver medalists 1 Magna Cum Laude recipient 2 Cum Laude recipients

In November, students were invited to observe the world around them and document what they found for the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) nationwide competition for K-12 students. AMIYA PHADE '27 was awarded second place in the sixth- through eighth-grade division for her website that identifies types of pollution, how it affects the communities we live in, and how we can make changes to fix it.

Mock Trial Competes for State Championship The GPS Mock Trial A and B teams competed at the state tournament in Nashville this spring. GPS A team placed fifth among 14 teams and GPS B team placed 10th among the best of the best in the state. The only ballot that the state winner, Montgomery Bell Academy Red, lost to was GPS A. Walking away from the weekend with a distinguished honor was GPS senior and member of the A team L AUREN THACKER, who won the Robert Horton Campbell Award. Given each year at the state level, it’s awarded to the single highest-ranked Plaintiff/ Prosecution attorney.

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AROUND GPS

Fletcher Bright Fellowship Winner ROWAN ESPY ’23,

a member of Terpsichord, Partnerships in the Community, Science Club, Environmental Club, and SWENext (Society of ROWAN ESPY ’23 Women EngineersNext Generation), was awarded the prestigious title of Fletcher Bright Fellow for 2022-23. Rowan’s proposal outlined her plan to showcase mental health topics through dance during a two-night performance at Barking Legs Theater. During this showcase, the Chattanooga dance community will come together to perform, with proceeds donated to various mental health organizations. “Openly discussing mental health is considered taboo, so the subject does not receive the attention it needs, and people who need help go without treatment,” Rowan said. “Those suffering from mental health illnesses often do not receive the same level of care or are not taken as seriously as those with physical illnesses. Because of this stigma, many people suffer in silence. The goal of this project is to expose people to the issue of mental health illness, encourage the destigmatization of it and demonstrate how participation in the arts can be freeing to those who suffer from it.” Ultimately, she hopes her project can prompt people who are struggling to get help, to destigmatize asking for help, and to raise awareness in addition to funds. As of now, the plan is for the performances to take place this October.

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Sixth-Grade May Celebration Sixth-grade families visited campus the last Friday of school to experience what their daughters had been up to all year! The interdisciplinary event included an art display, vocal performance, global cultures exhibit, and dance performances.

American Legion Auxiliary Volunteer Girls State Six from the Class of 2023 represented GPS at the American Legion Auxiliary Volunteer Girls State, a weeklong, nonpartisan program centered on citizenship, teamwork, and fostering a love of God and country. Rising seniors across the state elect city, county, and state officials, engage in party politics, debate legislation, and collaborate in various activities. Our students amassed some very impressive results: HANNAH GRACE KORNBERG was appointed City Reporter, elected County Commissioner, and appointed State Attorney General; ABIGAIL MANN was elected City Judge and State Senator; ANYA PARAMBATH was elected Governor and one of two Girls Nation Senators, representing Tennessee in the national convention in Washington, DC, in July, and was named Best Citizen for her city; ANISHA PHADE was honored with the Best Citizen Award and elected City Mayor, County Mayor, and State Senator; OLIVIA STAFFORD was named one of five Supreme Court Justices; ANABEL WILSON was elected to the City Council and also served as a National Gubernatorial Primary Nominee.

AROUND GPS

Cat-Rat

An exciting day for all involved, incoming sixth-grade Rats discovered their senior Cats through their matching cowboy hats at the annual Cat-Rat reveal. The long-lasting Cat-Rat tradition serves as a great way for seasoned veterans to show new students the ropes. Additional Cat-Rat events throughout the year included a parade, holiday party, breakfast, and more. GPS alumnae often report lifelong friendships that started with their Cat-Rat pairings, with many even returning to campus for their Rat’s Chapel Talk!

TUCKER RIVER FELLOWS

Tucker River Fellows, an endowed multi-year program named in honor of previous headmaster Randy Tucker, inducted six new students from the Class of 2026: CAROLINE BERNARD, MIA BRUNETZ, SOLEIGH KUETER, MAGGIE L ANPHIER, MACY POOLE, and EMMA ROSE PRATT.

These students will spend part of their summer and ninth-grade year engaging in experiential learning about the many issues impacting their local watershed.

Junior Ring Day In a day fit for royalty, the Class of 2023 received their class rings on St. Patrick’s Day. The junior members of the Class Leadership Council surprised their classmates with a special delivery from the Princess of Genovia herself, (well … maybe it was Mrs. Sizemore dressed as a queen), a reference to the 2001 film The Princess Diaries, complete with sparkling punch, rings, tiaras, and scepters. That evening, the girls returned to campus for a photo booth, bounce house, snacks, movie screening, and photos with friends. Joy emanated as the girls began to turn each others’ rings—all working toward the illustrious 122 spins!

TEACHER RECOGNITIONS DR. BRANDON NOEL, Upper School science teacher, worked with a team of researchers from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a cohort of 10 high school teachers as part of a year-long Research Experiences for Teachers program funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation. The topic of the program was Engineering and Data Analytics in Smart Cities. DR. RALPH COVINO, GPS history and Latin teacher, became Executive Secretary of the South East World History Association (SEWHA), elected for a five-year term as the association's chief administrative officer. He also delivered a presentation titled "High Impact Education Practices, Student Agency, and Deeper Learning" at the Tennessee Association of Independent Schools' Biennial Conference and another titled "Towards Global Competence: Building Bridges through Empathy" at the 2022 Impacting Student Learning Conference hosted by Augusta University. L AUREN L AWRENCE SWANSON ’09,

DEI Student Support and Community Engagement Coordinator, gave a presentation titled “Building a Black Alumnae/Alumni Council at an Independent School” at the Council for Advancement and Support of Education District III Conference. Swanson also received her master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Austin Peay University. DR. ANDREA BECKSVOORT,

History Department Chair, led the Chattanooga as Text program this summer, bringing real world experience to girls throughout the Chattanooga community, including four GPS students. She was assisted by CL AUDIA RODRIGUEZ, Spanish teacher, and GPS alumna Mia Hammonds '21, who was a summer intern.

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ATHLETICS GPS ATHLETIC NEWS FOR 2021-22 SCHOOL YEAR By Jay Watts, Director of Athletics

THIS SCHOOL YEAR saw a welcomed return to a near pre-COVID level of competition across all our athletic teams. Competing in sports provides a healthy outlet for stress, allows girls to form bonds with their teammates and coaches, offers leadership opportunities, and sets students up for long-term success. Plus it’s just a lot of fun playing with people you love being around! And our families sure enjoy seeing our girls complete. Read below for recaps of a year’s worth of athletic endeavors.

Through Bruiser Boosters, a group that includes eight corporate sponsors in addition to dozens of parents, the athletic department was able to purchase Teambuildr, a software that best supports our athletes with specialized

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programming in the weight room. Head Strength Coach Matt Green now considers the platform an essential part of training strategy. “This software allows us to easily track our athletes' progress and fine tune their workouts accordingly to help put them in the best possible position to be successful,” Green says. “More recently, this software has also provided an important additional benefit through allowing us to easily and quickly deliver online workouts whenever needed so our athletes can keep training regardless of the situation. I am incredibly thankful that our GPS Bruiser Boosters gives us the resources to support our girls this way.”

ATHLETICS

FALL SPORTS All four of our TSSAA fall sport teams— CROSS COUNTRY, GOLF, SOCCER, and VOLLEYBALL —received academic recognition for maintaining at least a 3.0 or higher GPA during their seasons, with cross country, golf, and soccer all maintaining team GPAs of 3.5 or better. Our fall non-TSSAA teams— cheerleading and rowing—would have qualified for academic recognition by the TSSAA if those were sanctioned sports. When you think about the level of success that is achieved by our teams in competition, it is even more remarkable to see how well our athletes perform in the classroom. Two of our teams finished in the top four in the state at the end of their seasons. SOCCER reached the Division II AA state semifinals, falling to the eventual state champions, Harpeth Hall. GPS CROSS COUNTRY finished third out of 17 teams at the state meet as the Honeybears from Harpeth Hall ended up with that title as well. AVA AND OLIVIA SCOTCHIE ’22 both qualified for the state golf tournament as individuals. Ava ended her season with a career best score of 79 in the final round.

GPS VOLLEYBALL finished a rebuilding season with a lot of momentum heading into next year. The Bruisers picked up wins over CCS and Signal Mountain during the regular season and won their division at the local River City Rumble tournament. The GPS ROWING TEA M was able to enjoy a full fall season in the new GPS | McCallie Rowing Center that officially opened in September and ended with a strong performance at the annual Head of the Hooch Regatta. Our entry in the Youth U19 4x finished fourth out of almost 40 entries and was the top scholastic team in the event. Our U19 2x team of Ella Ingalls ’22 and Maddie Flynn ’22 finished seventh out of over 50 entries. Our GPS | MCCALLIE BLUE CREW CHEERLEADERS helped cheer on McCallie to their third consecutive state football championship at Finley Stadium on December 2.

The following UPPER SCHOOL ATHLETES won additional individual recognition this fall: » Scholastic All-American in swimming: Ellie Taliaferro ’22 » All-State Cross Country: Frances Bohner ’25, Mariah Ivery ’25, and Gilly Shumate ’25 » News 12 Now Scholar Athlete of the Week: McKamey Bratcher ’23 » All-Region Soccer: Kennedy Ball ’23 (MVP), Sasha Carbone ’23, Farah House ’26, and Gardner Rustand ’22 » All-Region Volleyball: Ansley Blevins ’22 » Cross Country: Frances Bohner '25, Mariah Ivery '25, and Gilly Shumate '25 were named Best of Preps by the Chattanooga Times Free Press. » Soccer: Kennedy Ball '23 and Sasha Carbone '23 were named Best of Preps by the Chattanooga Times Free Press. Our MIDDLE SCHOOL TEA MS all represented the school well this fall: » V olleyball had an amazing season with several big wins that included a tournament championship at Heritage High School. » Nora Armstrong ’27 and Helen Kates ’28 finished first and second, respectively, at the regional cross country championships at Woodland Park. » Softball ended its season on a high note with a win over Baylor at Baylor. » A group of Bruisers from our Middle School club tennis program won a USTA middle school state tournament in Nashville.

WINTER SPORTS Our SWIMMING AND DIVING PROGRA MS saw great success in the pool this year. The Bruisers finished second overall in the TISCA state meet on February 12—the highest GPS has finished in the final team standings in 20 years! » E llie Taliaferro ’22 set two school records at the meet, upping her tally to four during her GPS swimming career. She was also part of a state champion 400yard freestyle relay team that included Scout Chapin ’24, Frances Bohner ’25, and Keller Williamson ’23. » Kendall Rizer ’23 and Anabel Wilson ’23 qualified for the finals in diving scoring additional points for the Bruisers in the final standings. Head coach ROGER DAHLKE was named State Girls Coach of the Year. In January, our VARSIT Y BOWLING TEA M represented GPS at the TSSAA State Championship in Smyrna, losing to St. Benedict in the quarterfinals after qualifying as the secondplace team in the region. The Bruisers finished the regular season with a 7-1 record thanks to leadership from Caroline Farris ’22, Emily Richardson ’22, Gardner Rustand ’22, Julia Wiedmer ’22, and Sam Williams ’22. The following UPPER SCHOOL ATHLETES won additional individual recognition this winter: » S wimming: Our 400-yard freestyle relay team of Ellie Taliaferro '22, Scout Chapin ’24, Frances Bohner ’25, and Keller Williamson ’23 won state. » Basketball: Kennedy Ball '23 and Farah House '26 were named All-Region. Our MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETES were able to enjoy successful seasons of basketball, swimming, diving, and cheerleading over the winter months. » F or the second year in a row, our swimming and diving team won the NW Georgia Championships. » Our basketball team enjoyed a great win over Baylor. » Sixth-graders at GPS were able to participate in cheerleading for the first time this winter, and we look forward to adding them to our annual athletic offerings.

After having to field a noncompetitive schedule last year because of COVID-19, our CLIMBERS were able to get back on the wall and perform at a high level against a number of area high school programs. GPS finished the season with a three-match winning streak led by Abby Kueter ’22 and Chloe Newman ’22. Climbers took part in 11 meets at High Point gyms across the area. Of nine climbers on the team, four had never competed before, so this year was more of a development season. Coach Sean Caulfield reported significant improvements across the season, with each team score higher than the previous meet and our climbers posting high points at two meets. BASKETBALL dropped a tough game against Knox Webb at home to close out their regular season. The Bruisers finished the year with a 10-11 record that included big wins over Baylor, Rhea County, South Pittsburg, and CCS. The away win over Baylor was especially satisfying as the Raiders had defeated GPS at home earlier in the season.

ATHLETICS

SPRING SPORTS Our SOF TBALL program finished second in the state, dropping their final game during the TSSAA Spring Fling but not before another 20-win season and a record-breaking performance at the plate from Ansley Blevins ’22, who was named the Chattanooga Times Free Press Player of the Year after setting a new school standard for home runs in a season. Our East Region champion GPS TRACK AND FIELD squad also competed at Spring Fling and finished sixth. Emily Kreek ’22 set a new school record in the 300-meter hurdles en route to a first place finish in that event. L ACROSSE set a new school record for goals in one season and reached the TGLA State Semifinals before falling to the eventual state champion, Harpeth Hall. Reagan Ziegler ’23 and Evie Jackson ’22 were both named to the All-State team.

Our ROWING program placed two boats in the SRAA Championships in New Jersey, and we look forward to seeing our younger rowers return next year even stronger. TENNIS reached the state quarterfinals after defeating Harpeth Hall 4-0 in the opening round. The Bruisers also picked up wins over CCS and Brentwood during the regular season.

The following UPPER SCHOOL ATHLETES won additional individual recognition this spring » S oftball: Ansley Blevins '22, McKamey Bratcher '23, Maddie Grace Hubbard '22, and Abbie Reel '22 were all named AllRegion. Ansley was also named Region Player of the Year. Ansley Blevins '22 and Abbie Reel '22 were named Best of Preps by the Chattanooga Times Free Press, with Ansley also nominated as the Scrappy Moore Female Athlete of the Year. » Lacrosse: Abi Austin '22, Evie Jackson '22, Gracie Pritchett '24, CJ Polk '22, Chapel Tremain '23, and Reagan Ziegler '23 were all named All-Region. Evie and Reagan were both on the Division II All-State team as well. » Track and Field: Louisa Bohner '22 (Shot Put), Frances Bohner '25 (1600 Meter), and Emily Kreek '22 (300 Hurdles) all set school records this season. Emily was named Best of Preps by the Chattanooga Times Free Press. » CJ Polk '22 was recognized as a WGOW Sport Talk Senior Spotlight winner for lacrosse and basketball in May. Our MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETES continue to impress in their spring competitions: » F ourteen members of our track and field team qualified for the East Tennessee Elite Championships in Knoxville. » Lacrosse wrapped up another great season in April with multiple wins over Baylor. » Golf also defeated Baylor in the regular season before moving on to win the district championship at Brainerd Golf Course in May. » Tennis competed well in the face of a strong schedule and collected wins against Baylor and Dalton. G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

ATHLETICS

HEAD COACHING UPDATES COACH ALFIE DODD returns to GPS this fall as our head varsity volleyball coach. Dodd coached volleyball at GPS in 2016 and 2017, winning the Choo Choo City Invitational in ’17 as well as taking the Bruisers to the state tournament. A Division I athlete at the University of Memphis, Dodd was the MVP of the Tigers’ volleyball team in 1997 and was a part of the USAV indoor men’s program for 15 years, playing competitively in a number club circuits until 2016. He coached locally at Boyd Buchannan in 2014 and 2015 winning two district championships with the Buccaneers and reaching the state quarterfinals in 2014.

We are also excited to welcome back BETSY BROWDER ’10 as our new head middle school cheerleading coach. Browder was a member of the GPS Blue Crew during her time as a Bruiser and on the GPS competitive squad as well. She will lead our expanded Middle School program that now includes sixth-graders. The middle school girls will be able to cheer in both the fall and winter this next school year.

DAN SHARPLIN will head up the new GPS squash program next winter after leading the McCallie program to great heights this year. Coach Sharplin attended UDC Finance Squash Institute of New Zealand, a school for elite players, and had the opportunity to play as a professional in the 1990s. Sharplin has also directed and coached at several clubs around the world and had the opportunity to serve as a National Coach of the Luxembourg Squash Federation. We look forward to seeing the work he can do with the Bruisers in just a few months. Squash will be a varsity winter sport at GPS.

Replacing the retiring Susan Crownover, LONDON CORNELIUS will join us this fall as a PE teacher and varsity softball coach. Since 2018, Cornelius has served as a PK-8 physical education teacher, health and wellness teacher, athletic director, and team leader at Wake Forest Charter Academy in North Carolina. She is a two-time collegiate softball captain and has also served as an NCAA coach. She has extensive experience working with softball athletes of all ages, specifically in outfielder development and defensive strategies.

FOLLOW GPS ATHLETICS ON FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, AND TWITTER. @BRUISERATHLETICS

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@GPS_ATHLETICS

@BRUISERSPORTS

COLLEGE

ATHLETICS

ANSLEY BLEVINS

LOUISA BOHNER

Softball | Middle Tennessee State University

Track & Field | Auburn University

M ADDIE FLYNN

M ADDIE GRACE HUBBARD

EMILY KREEK

Rowing | West Virginia University

Softball | Huntingdon College

Track & Field | College of Charleston

CL AIRE NICOL A

ELLIE TALIAFERRO

Volleyball | Webster University

Swimming | Vanderbilt University

SIGNINGS

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FINE

& PERFORMING

Arts

CREATIVIT Y AND PASSION EXUDED ALL YEAR LONG, ILLUSTRATING THE TALENT AND JOY INNATE IN THE GPS FINE & PERFORMING ARTS DEPARTMENT.

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FINE & PERFORMING ARTS

AP Art Exit Show

To the delight of the entire GPS community, the AP Art Exit Show returned this year and was held at Clear Story Arts. Eleven students from AP Drawing, AP 2D, and AP 3D showcased their work in a gallery show open to friends, family, and the general public. Participating students included Edie Beagles, Louisa Bohner, Madi Clower, Caroline Farris, Laci Holt, Claire Nicola, Liza Rogers, Maggie Stevens, Ellie Taliaferro, Emma-Kate White, and J.C. Wiedmer. Alongside each student’s work was an artist statement she had written, detailing the guiding concepts behind her creative process.

10-MINUTE PL AYS

A beloved coordinate tradition with McCallie, the 10-Minute Play Festival made a triumphant return to the GPS Evans Center this winter, with a variety of short works written and performed by GPS and McCallie students, faculty, and staff.

WINTER WONDERL AND

The GPS Singers performed a breadth of holiday favorites during the annual Winter Concert, which made its return this year following last year’s hiatus due to COVID-19. To conclude the show, audience members were encouraged to stand and join in a collection of singalong carols the ensemble had chosen from their individual family memories to celebrate the sounds of the season.

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FINE & PERFORMING ARTS

PRIDE & PREJUDICE

GPS drama teacher Mark Krawczyk directed the fall play, a bold Kate Hamill adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved Pride & Prejudice. Described as "...not your grandmother’s Austen," this updated take on a classic piece of literature explored the fun, wild ride that is finding your perfect (or imperfect) match. Lizzy Bennet, the outspoken lead, determined to avoid marriage despite societal pressure, met the charming-but-oft-aggravating Mr. Darcy, forcing her to reconsider her thoughts on the matter.

GPS CHORAL CONCERT

The GPS Singers hit the Frierson stage this spring with a medley of songs from musicals you know and love, such as Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and The Greatest Showman.

MY THOLOGICAL ALLUSIONS

The Terpsichord Thanksgiving Concert, which featured an in-person audience (but was also live-streamed for those who wished to watch virtually), featured six pieces that illustrated the dancers’ creative interpretations of mythological allegories. Midway through the program, audience members enjoyed the traditional senior duet choreographed and performed by President Graci Felker and Vice President Lily Grace Greenwood. The show culminated with a company-wide dance choreographed by Director Laurel Moore Zahrobsky ’90. 26

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LET IT GO

The GPS | McCallie Middle School Musical made its eagerly awaited return to the stage this year, as members of the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades performed Disney’s Frozen JR. to much fanfare. Seeing in the audience so many mini Annas and Elsas made the shows that much sweeter.

RECOGNITION FOR EXPRESSION

Juanita Garcia ’24 received a Silver Key Designation for her self-portrait painting from The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers. Founded in 1923, the national nonprofit organization established the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards to highlight teens for their talents and creativity across 28 categories that range from printmaking to novel writing, painting, ceramics, and more. This award recognition program is the nation’s longest-running program for creative teens and considered the most prestigious.

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS

LOOKING GL ASS

The Terpsichord Spring Concert, titled “Looking Glass,” featured pieces set by Director Laurel Moore Zahrobsky ’90, Assistant Director Amanda Byars ’99, University of Alabama Instructor of Dance Aidan Nettles, professor and Co-Director of the Dance Program at Sonoma State Kristen Daley, as well as members of the Terpsichord company.

MUSIC SHOWCASES

MOTION MAKERS

Motion Makers dancers expressed their voices and emotions through movement in their spring performance. Motion Makers is a club for Middle School students interested in expanding their knowledge and opportunities with dance.

The end of the school year played out in festive fashion, with both the Middle and Upper School music programs delivering entertaining performances during Chapel full of singing and instrumental prowess.

THE HILLS WERE ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF MUSIC

In April, the GPS | McCallie musical made its spectacular return to Frierson Theatre with three performances of The Sound of Music. Sarah Kalla ’21 played Maria, a role she was originally cast in as a sophomore, when the musical was intended to take place but had to be canceled due to COVID-19. Mark Krawczyk directed, Ellie Fivas ’21 served as assistant director, Mike Lees was the Music Director, and Nicholas Hartline conducted the orchestra.

THE ALIBIS

Performed at McCallie and directed by Holly MorseEllington, with set and lighting design and prop assistance from Taylor Boyd ’11 and creative consultation from Jason Tinney, the GPS | McCallie spring play The Alibis showcased a student stage and tech crew who took the lead on costumes and set management. The show, which featured seven mini-plays within the play, was a thrilling whodunit murder mystery set in Savannah, Georgia.

READ MORE ABOUT OUR PRODUCTIONS AT GPS.EDU/NEWS.

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FINE & PERFORMING ARTS

Seniors Share Stories of Connection During COVID-19 with Fletcher Bright Fellowship CAROLINE FARRIS AND CL AIRE NICOL A GIVE A VOICE TO COMMUNIT Y MEMBERS THROUGH MURAL AND INTERVIEW PROJECT

L AST SCHOOL YEAR, Caroline Farris ’22 and Claire Nicola ’22 applied for and received the third Fletcher Bright Fellowship for Artistic and Community Engagement. Named for one of the world’s great traditional old-time and bluegrass fiddlers, the late Fletcher Bright, his eponymous fellowship was founded by his daughter Lizzer Bright Graham ’77. She wanted to honor his legacy through a gift to Girls Preparatory School that would celebrate the arts and foster growth, curiosity, and excitement for students.

The endowed program offers an annual award to a rising GPS senior or seniors who are selected through an extensive application and outside review. Following a year mired by COVID-19, Caroline and Claire knew they wanted to highlight and honor essential workers. Their idea blossomed from there and, as the recipients of the fellowship, they connected with two local organizations to share stories of community and connection. They explained, “In times of COVID-19, the Chattanooga community has been lacking a sense of unity, which we felt could be mended through an artistic project that spread visual awareness about current social, mental, and societal issues in order to invoke empathy and create connections. Our objective was to reestablish a sense of community within Chattanooga through an artistic rendition of this concept.” First, the girls partnered with Erlanger Health System, where Claire’s mom works. “I had seen firsthand how much stress she was under, given so much was unknown,” Claire said. “That’s how we decided we wanted to honor frontline workers.”

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The other community organization the pair partnered with was La Paz. Caroline explained, “We knew we also wanted to highlight a group that wasn’t as represented and didn’t have as big of a voice. We recognized that the pandemic wasn’t just affecting essential workers, so we wanted to illustrate that aspect of it, too.” Work started at the beginning of second semester junior year, when the girls began contacting the organizations for support. When summer rolled around, prior commitments took precedence—volleyball for Claire and Governor’s School for the Arts for Caroline—before they jumped back in full force in August 2021. From the beginning, the duo knew they wanted to both show and tell the stories of locals, which is why they chose to interview representatives in addition to commemorating them through murals. The girls arranged interviews with members of both organizations, which were incorporated into the final art pieces through QR codes. The girls admit the toughest part of the project had been communication, but they enjoyed the process and learned a lot about planning, preparation, and execution of such a large-scale project. “It’s been really nice to have this experience and get to interact with people we wouldn’t have otherwise,” Caroline said. “Getting to hear their stories—and the depth we went into with these people—it really changed my perspective,” Claire added.

KALEIDOSCOPE

in bloom

THE 2021-22 YEARBOOK SPROUTS AN INSPIRING THEME

Ellie Fivas, yearbook editor-in-chief, on choosing this year’s theme: “In Bloom” not only represents the beauty of our year’s successes and happiness, but also recognizes the presence and necessity of this year’s challenges. Growth is not possible without a starting point. GPS is an environment where girls are able to recover from wilting and truly bloom to their fullest potential. Watching fellow castmates in theater find their voices, an athlete score her first point, or a friend receive a good grade after studying hard are all ways through which I have seen girls thrive during their periods of growth at GPS. While some may still be conquering their obstacles, that does not make them any less beautiful. Not beauty in the aesthetic way––beauty in the kind, smart, and determined way. Unique interests and personalities paint an incredible landscape at our school. I would categorize it as “in bloom.” I know elegant dancers, amazing rowers, a sole jewelry-maker, and countless history nerds. We were “in bloom” this year because we are ourselves. We are not “bloomed,” in the past tense; we are still blooming and growing. Sometimes, we may have to vine onto each other for support, but that only brings us closer together.

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GETTING TO KNOW

Introducing

OUR NEWEST HEADS, DEANS, AND DIRECTORS JOINING US THIS FALL!

Getting to Know Beth Creswell Wilson ’96 Head of Upper School Alumna Beth Creswell Wilson ’96, who most recently served as the Upper School Assistant Principal at The Galloway School in Atlanta, Georgia, returns to GPS with a wealth of knowledge and experience in academic programming and curriculum development that focus on the whole child. Throughout her career, she has created and implemented signature programs to enhance the student experience in teaching and learning and offered increased student resources to help students thrive academically while emphasizing character education and social-emotional wellbeing. She brings to her new role as Head of Upper School a passion for team building and supporting teachers, partnering with them to create a culture of collaboration, innovation, and reflection. After graduating from GPS, Wilson attended Davidson College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in English. She holds a master’s in rhetoric and composition from UT Chattanooga, and a certificate in school management and

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leadership through a joint program from Harvard Graduate School of Education and Harvard Business School. She’s expected to complete her doctorate in discourse studies and pedagogy from Old Dominion University this year. Wilson is a visionary leader who brings integrity, curiosity, and empathy to all she does and will bring to our school a depth and breadth of experience in curriculum development. As an alumna, she credits GPS for launching both of her careers— first as an urban designer and then as an educator. “During my formative years, the all-girls environment had taught me that my voice should be heard when I had something worth saying and, in later years, it never occurred to me to act otherwise,” she said. “The world needs girls’ voices, influence, solutions, and leadership, and GPS has a proud legacy of preparing her students for the demands of these contributions. I am excited to work with the students, faculty, and staff of the Upper School—a place marked by intellectual growth, curiosity, resilience, belonging, friendship, and laughter.”

GETTING TO KNOW

Beth’s This & That PERSONAL TEACHING PHILOSOPHY:

High engagement yields deep learning. Engagement comes in many forms: real-world relevance and personal connection, student voice and choice, collaboration, teaching through multiple modes, and, of course, fun!

FAVORITE PIECE OF ADVICE TO GIVE YOUR STUDENTS: Neither life

nor education follows a map. Let your curiosities and values be your compass and embrace your own journey.

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND FREE TIME: Reading, creating, or traveling

with my husband and kids

PET PEEVE: Disrespect … and slow walkers right in front of me! FAVORITE THING ABOUT CHATTANOOGA: My favorite thing

about Chattanooga is that we are a success story for inspired urban design and public/private partnerships.

“

I am excited to work with the students, faculty, and staff of the Upper School—a place marked by intellectual growth, curiosity, resilience, belonging, friendship, and laughter.”

FAVORITE BINGE-WORTHY SHOW:

Ted Lasso

FUN FACT: I have run over 25 halfmarathons. Once I ran a half marathon and a full marathon in one weekend!

GUILT Y PLEASURE:

Making a Starbucks or boba tea run. Or going to Disney World!

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GETTING TO KNOW

Getting to Know Katye Adams Couch ’92 Dean of Teaching and Learning For the 2022-23 school year, GPS alumna Katye Adams Couch ’92 will become the school’s first-ever Dean of Teaching and Learning. In this role, she will be responsible for creating and supporting a learner-centered environment for students and faculty, which includes providing leadership around effective and responsive teaching practices and fostering a culture of professional growth for faculty to examine pedagogical strategies in and out of the classroom. She will be instrumental in ensuring each girl’s strengths and selfconfidence are cultivated and nurtured. Couch returned to GPS in 1998, where she has served as a Middle and Upper School science teacher, founding advisor to Tucker River Fellows, seventh-grade class dean, diving coach, and Science Olympiad advisor. Throughout her time here, she has assisted in the creation of the Chattanooga as Text program, served as a member of the Co.Lab Entrepreneurship mentor network, attended and presented at conferences around the country, and led multiple trips locally and abroad.

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As she moves into her new role, Couch says, “I am most excited about working with other passionate members of our community to welcome and engage students and teachers in the Teaching and Learning Center. I hope this space will become an even more vibrant hub where faculty, staff, and students are supported, involved, and celebrated in their learning adventures and where we can co-create and catalog GPS best-practices for teaching and learning. I hope this also leads to more student empowerment to make tangible differences in the GPS community and beyond. I am excited to be working with a great group of dedicated and creative faculty members as part of the GPS design team working toward learner-centered culture.”

GETTING TO KNOW

Katye’s This & That PERSONAL TEACHING PHILOSOPHY:

Education should be relevant, important, and should celebrate student voices. Good education is rooted in human connection and creates stronger, healthier, and more interesting communities.

GUILT Y PLEASURE:

Wordle and Mahjong

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND FREE TIME: Hiking/exploring, mountain

biking, kayaking, crafting, or reading PET PEEVE: Blocked aisles in stores

“

I am most excited about working with other passionate members of our community to welcome and engage students and teachers in the Teaching and Learning Center.”

FAVORITE PIECE OF ADVICE TO GIVE YOUR STUDENTS: Find a

way to personalize your learning. Try out different things and keep an open mind to discover what you enjoy and what you are passionate about; tie that passion to other endeavors and classes.

FUN FACT: Winter is my least favorite season, but I had a great time dog sledding and snowshoeing on a previous Winterim with students! FAVORITE THING ABOUT CHATTANOOGA: Outdoor

FAVORITE BINGE-WORTHY SHOW:

The Good Place

opportunities, our vibrant and innovative community, local initiatives and people coming together for causes.

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GETTING TO KNOW

Getting to Know Beverly Blackwell Dean of Health and Wellness Beverly Blackwell will become the first GPS Dean of Health and Wellness. She will be responsible for creating and leading a learner-centered and developmentally appropriate health and wellness program, which includes physical, mental, social, and emotional health. In her role, she will oversee the health and wellness needs of the school plus design and implement courses and curricula across divisions to best meet the developing needs of Middle and Upper School girls, including equipping them with skills to mindfully navigate their social landscapes and make healthy decisions that positively impact their physical, emotional, and social selves. Blackwell joined the GPS community in 2015 after leading the physical education program at Signal Mountain Middle/High School. During her time at GPS, Blackwell has served as a physical education teacher and PE Department Chair, NSCA-certified strength and conditioning coach, aquatics coordinator, and track & field, softball,

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and diving coach. Outside of GPS, Blackwell was instrumental in developing a fitness program with the national YMCA organization and is known as and has received numerous accolades as a state championship-winning coach. Blackwell, is passionate about the allgirls environment, says about her new role, “I am excited about working with the PE department as well as our school counselors in developing a comprehensive health and wellness experience for not only our students, but also for our faculty.”

GETTING TO KNOW

Beverly’s This & That FAVORITE THING ABOUT CHATTANOOGA: This is my

hometown, so I love everything about it—from the mountains to the rivers. FAVORITE PIECE OF ADVICE TO GIVE YOUR STUDENTS: Continue to

strive for balance in all that you do.

“

I am excited about working with the PE department as well as our school counselors in developing a comprehensive health and wellness experience for not only our students, but also for our faculty.”

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND FREE TIME: In the summer, my husband and

I spend time boating on the lake.

GUILT Y PLEASURE: I love traveling as

much as possible.

FUN FACT: I take a SCUBA trip 1-2 times a year. My most recent adventure was staying on a liveaboard for seven days from Miami to Exuma Bahamas this summer.

FAVORITE MOVIE REWATCH: I will watch The Proposal and Sweet Home Alabama every time they are on TV.

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GETTING TO KNOW

Getting to Know Andrew Reich Director of College Counseling Andrew Reich officially joined the GPS community as Director of College Counseling in July, though he has spent many months already getting to know the rising GPS seniors, who he will guide on their college search journeys. Reich has spent the last five years serving as an Associate Director of College Counseling at the Collegiate School, a coed JK-12 independent day school in Richmond, Virginia, and worked with families around the country as an independent admission consultant for one of the top independent college counseling firms in the nation. Prior to his five years at Collegiate School, he worked in domestic and international admission and enrollment for NYU and Gettysburg College, providing him a view from the other side of the desk of the college admission process. Reich attended Worcester Academy, an independent school in Massachusetts, and holds a Master of Philosophy in comparative and international education from the University of Oslo (Norway) and a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Beloit College (Wisconsin), where

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he was a standout on the football team and ran track, setting conference and school records. When asked about joining the GPS community, Reich complimented GPS students on their conviction, selfidentity, and passion and reiterated that his primary responsibility is to help students find a post-GPS path that suits each unique individual. He said, “I am thrilled for the opportunity to reimagine what college counseling can mean in an independent school community. Those in the college counseling office who have been dedicated to GPS students and families for many years have laid an incredible foundation for the work that lies ahead. In my view, one of GPS’s greatest strengths relative to other national independent schools is the genuine care that alumnae and current students have for the spaces that make up their community, and I am over-themoon excited to enter an environment that is filled with enthusiasm, joy, agency, conviction, and pride.”

GETTING TO KNOW

Andrew’s This & That WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT MOVING TO CHATTANOOGA: We are so excited

PERSONAL TEACHING PHILOSOPHY:

Patience is central to my work. For me, I lead approximately 40 seniors through the college search and application experience each year but, for each student, it is their first time. They will make mistakes, they will frustrate me, they will make assumptions, they will take shortcuts when it is not advisable, etc.—but for many of them it is their first time managing a process that ultimately leads to an important life choice, and for that I have endless patience and understanding.

FAVORITE PIECE OF ADVICE TO GIVE YOUR STUDENTS: Where you

to watch Chattanooga continue to grow into the nationally recognized city that it is quickly becoming.

go to college does not determine who you will become. GUILT Y PLEASURE: Two lunches

instead of one

FAVORITE BINGE-WORTHY SHOW:

Eastbound & Down or Ted Lasso

“

I am thrilled for the opportunity to reimagine what college counseling can mean in an independent school community.”

FUN FACT: My wife, daughter, and I stop at a bakery in any city we find ourselves traveling through. Big croissant, hand tart, and morning bun guy.

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND FREE TIME:

PET PEEVE: Lack of punctuality

Long walks with my wife and daughter in different neighborhoods or on hiking trails with no particular destination in mind.

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GETTING TO KNOW

Getting to Know Lauren Lawrence Swanson ’09 Director of Belonging and Community Engagement This fall, Lauren Lawrence Swanson ’09 will transition into the role of Director of Belonging and Community Engagement, but she’s no stranger to the work. Over the past few years, she has been instrumental in supporting GPS’s strategic focus on creating a culture in which every member, specifically students in underrepresented groups, has a voice at the table, feels respected and valued for who they are, and knows that they belong at GPS. She has worked tirelessly to build strong relationships with girls, support positive identity development, founded and led BIPOC student forum, and served as a liaison to other GPS forums. Additionally, she and her colleagues have worked to create developmentally appropriate lessons for grades 6-12 as a part of our student belonging program and co-led faculty and staff professional development opportunities as a part of our strategic equity plan. As a member of the Advancement team, Swanson founded and leads the Black Alumnae Council, has worked with her fellow alumnae to raise over $130K for the Black Alumnae Endowed Scholarship Fund, and made myriad connections between GPS and our greater community.

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Before returning to her alma mater, Swanson worked in the public school system, where she says she began to see the inequities in America’s educational system. “I realized that not every school, student, or family was given the same opportunities. The curriculum that teachers were assigned to teach only told a single story.” She turned this knowledge into power, using it to write grants to overhaul her classroom library to reflect the demographics of her students and to take students on a field trip that would otherwise be unavailable to them. She even helped write the science, math, and literacy curriculum for her grade level across Hamilton County. With regards to her new role at GPS, Swanson says, “I came back to help mentor and support our students of color at GPS. My motto in education has always been to be the person I needed when I was in school. Education coupled with diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging is one of the most challenging fields, but it is also rewarding. I love the challenge; it makes me better, and seeing students succeed is the icing on the cake.”

GETTING TO KNOW

Lauren’s This & That PERSONAL TEACHING PHILOSOPHY:

I am an educator who believes a student-centered method of teaching coupled with an interactive approach in and outside of the classroom can help create lifetime learners and global citizens. I believe that before learning can occur, relationships must be formed.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT CHATTANOOGA: I love how

FAVORITE PIECE OF ADVICE TO GIVE YOUR STUDENTS: I love encouraging

all students. Things can get stressful on campus, and I make sure they know that everything in the end will be okay!

GUILT Y PLEASURE: I’ll eat an entire bag of Starburst jelly beans.

“

I came back to help mentor and support our students of color at GPS. My motto in education has always been to be the person I needed when I was in school.”

Chattanooga has a little bit of everything. We have awesome outdoor spaces, fun restaurants, great small businesses, and I feel like there is something for everyone.

FUN FACT: Each week I help record a global television broadcast for my church.

PET PEEVE: Fake or soft hugs and

handshakes

FAVORITE BINGE-WORTHY SHOW:

Breaking Bad

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND FREE TIME: I love watching anything Marvel

with my family.

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

A Day in the Life of Today’s GPS Girl

SNAPSHOTS OF A T YPICAL DAY FOR MIDDLE AND UPPER SCHOOL STUDENTS

ONE OF THE BEST ASPECTS of a GPS education is learning what makes you most passionate and using that information to choose what you study and how you spend your day. Here, we believe the possibilities are endless. Though each girl’s day is different, she knows she will always have someone there to support her, cheer her on, and help her reach her goals. What follows is a brief glimpse into the routine of both a Middle School student and an Upper School student.

7:45 a.m. Teacher office hours are in the mornings before school, so sometimes I will come in early if I can’t make it to help class that day so that I can get help on my homework or ask questions about an assignment or lesson.

8:30 a.m. I love starting my Fridays with art with Ms. Yu. We just wrapped up a unit and are about to learn how to felt!

10:45 a.m. In eighth grade, we have a yearlong class called Inquiry where we learn how to research, write a bibliography, and find credible sources, and then we pick a topic we want to research and present to the class at the end of the year. I'm looking at how the Olympics being in one place can be better for the environment and world and designing what I think a permanent home for the event would look like.

11:40 a.m. FARAH HOUSE ’26

Middle School 40

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I absolutely love when we have smoothies for lunch! Besides that, I love the broccoli. There are about 13 of us who sit together most days.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

12:15 p.m.

12:45 p.m.

On Thursdays we have Advisory after lunch. My advisor is Ms. King, and we’ve been working on leadership skills and different challenges to better learn to communicate and problem solve.

In my STEM elective, we’re working with circuits right now, and we did some stuff with building bridges earlier this year. We’ve also done mini pottery with 3D printing and with small wheels just to get a reference. Then we went to virtual reality pottery to see what the differences were.

1:50 p.m.

3:45 p.m.

Señora Rodriguez approaches class in such a fun way. She tells us ridiculous stories in Spanish and keeps things interesting and engaging.

7 p.m. Normally when I get home I'll grab a snack and shower so I have a clear mind and then get to work on homework, which may take anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour-and-a-half.

I do three varsity sports—soccer, basketball, and track and field, which is in season right now. I throw the shot put. I love my team. We’re like a big family! We go out to eat all the time, and each time someone new gets to pick the restaurant.

10:30 p.m. I aim to go to bed around 10:3010:45, but some nights it’ll be later. If I really can’t fall asleep, I'll draw or paint or journal.

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

CAITLIN POLK ’24

Upper School

8:30 a.m. I really like my human geography class. We have a good group of girls. Ms. Simms is so nice. With our lessons, even if they’re hard to understand, she tries to relate it to current things we’d know about.

6:45 a.m. Waking up depends on the day. I have three or four alarms in the morning. Some days I'll wake up at the first one, some days I'll snooze them all. I ride to school with my older sister.

10:40 a.m. English is definitely my hardest subject, but Dr. Gromadzki is great. We’re convinced he’s secretly in the FBI.

11:40 a.m. Right now, the clubs I'm in are Junior State of America, Amnesty International, and Mock Trial. We had a Mock Trial competition in March, and I worked as a witness. It was fun getting into character and not being yourself for a little bit.

12:15 p.m. On Tuesdays, we have BIPOC during lunch, so we eat together and talk about anything, like how our days are going or what we’re doing for our booth at May Day. But on a normal lunch day, I usually sit with my older sister and the softball team. Just a big friend group of athletes. Everyone is really chill.

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

2:45 p.m. I’m on the Chapel tech crew, so we set up the podiums and mics, and the people in the booth handle the sound board and light board. This is my first year doing it. I had seen videos of people doing techy stuff like soundboards, so I just wanted to try it.

3 p.m. I really enjoy listening to Chapel Talks. This year I have a lot of friends in the senior class, and I think it’s really cool to see people I'm close with giving a speech about whatever they want. It gives another perspective on who they are. A good example, my friend Alexis Gaines gave her Talk. I knew about her ideologies and spirituality, but when she went up there and talked about it more, I became even more interested in it.

7:30 p.m.

5:45 p.m. I’m playing lacrosse right now, and so is my sister. Practice gets out around 5:45-6, and we live like 45 minutes away, so we get home around 6:45-7. Same with basketball season, since my sister plays and I manage the team.

9 p.m. When I finish my homework, I like to watch thrillers unless I’m stressed, in which case I'll watch cheesy romances with a snack or cold drink.

I don’t really have that much homework at night. Maybe an hour, hour and a half. I do a lot of my homework during my free periods or if a class lets out early. Homework is about time management.

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Leading the Charge HANNAH GRACE KORNBERG HONOR COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Q. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO RUN FOR HONOR COUNCIL PRESIDENT?

I wanted to run for President because I wanted to make the council the best it can be, and I want the honor code and council to remain an integral part of our community. The honor code strengthens relationships between teachers and students, as well as throughout the GPS community. When I joined GPS, I always thought it was awesome that we didn't have locks on our lockers, how we signed the pledge on our assignments, and how there was never really a question about trust between us. The integrity that we develop at GPS will follow us beyond our time here, and that’s really special. Q. WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE HONOR COUNCIL NEXT YEAR?

I want to ensure that every grade representative is wellequipped to be a good resource about the honor code and that the Honor Council will continue to be absolutely impartial and confidential in all violation reports heard. I want the Honor Council to be a growth-oriented, safe space. I would also like to ensure that the Honor Council is as transparent as possible about the honor code and Honor Council procedures. I would love to continue making improvements to the council to make it more empathetic and conversational—a restorative space that builds relationships rather than breaking them down. Q. WHAT'S YOUR LEADERSHIP ST YLE?

I think that I have a quiet leadership style, leading by showing others rather than by telling. Q. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT GPS?

My favorite thing about GPS is the supportive environment here. I love the friendly spirit. It really is a sisterhood in every way imaginable. Not only can I count on my peers, but there is also an incredible faculty ready to support us.

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SENIORS ELECTED TO LEADERSHIP POSITIONS FOR THE 2022-23 SCHOOL YEAR SHARE THEIR GOALS

CAROLINE CL ARK STUDENT COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Q. WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE STUDENT COUNCIL NEXT YEAR?

Next year, I want to connect the whole school together by connecting the Middle School more to the Upper School, as well as connecting students more with teachers. Having a community where girls feel like they belong is so important, and this is a huge part of the GPS experience. I also want to get more student input for events that we plan before they happen so we know exactly what the students want, rather than just getting feedback after the fact. Q. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE STUDENT COUNCIL?

I love StuCo because it plays a big role in making the GPS experience a more positive one. For one, we get to plan fun events like the silent disco, decades dance, and StuCo semi-formal; secondly, we get to suggest changes with hopes of making the school a better place. Q. WHAT'S YOUR LEADERSHIP ST YLE?

My leadership style is definitely a high-energy, go-getter style. I am determined and like to get things done, and I am not afraid to speak up for myself or others and their ideas. I am dedicated to my duties on the council and put this job before any other responsibilities. I am so excited to be able to get to know our student body better and listen to their input, ideas, and feedback next year. I want to lead by serving the student body, and by doing my best to accomplish not only what they want, but what matters most. I also love to have fun; I am a huge fan of dance parties, candy, cartwheels, and sing-a-longs. Q. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT GPS?

The opportunities we have at GPS are definitely my favorite thing about it. Whether it be the the willingness of teachers to sit down and talk with you about a difficult subject, or the incredible trips we are able to take on Winterim, the support we have from administrators, the food every day, the many options for classes to take, whether they be fun or challenging, and the many clubs that are offered—I am so grateful for GPS! I am certain that GPS has helped shape me into the person I am today.

LEADING THE CHARGE

HAYDEN WISE PARTNERSHIPS IN THE COMMUNIT Y PRESIDENT

Q. WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR PIC NEXT YEAR?

My main goal for next year is to offer as many volunteer opportunities for students as possible. I want to have more options during study halls, after school, and on the weekends. One of my biggest goals is to start a program where GPS students could tutor, or just hang out with, local elementary school kids after school. Q. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT PIC?

I love that we are able to help so many people. Not only are we helping people in our community through community service, but we’re also helping students gain amazing experiences through volunteer work. Q. WHAT'S YOUR LEADERSHIP ST YLE?

My leadership style is focused on transparency and intentionality. I want to set very clear goals and will work hard to outline the steps that it will take to attain those goals. I also hope to be a very approachable leader who welcomes all ideas, small or big, and helps others reach their fullest potential. Q. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT GPS?

The community and opportunities. GPS has provided me with the most amazing friends, teammates, teachers, and mentors I could’ve ever asked for. The GPS community has an amazing environment that is accepting, loving, and supportive. GPS also provides girls with more opportunities than I can count; we are encouraged to take interesting courses, join all different types of clubs, participate in fun after-school activities, and so much more.

ANABEL WILSON CL ASS LEADERSHIP COUNCIL CHAIRWOMAN

Q. WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR CLC NEXT YEAR?

I want to make senior year a celebration of the lives we have constructed for ourselves here at GPS. Over the past two years or so, my grade has been able to tear down many of the walls and barriers that had been separating us on the basis of friend groups and conflicting opinions or interests, but I think that we still have a ways to go. Next year, I want to place as much emphasis as possible on forming a long-lasting bond as a grade, rather than just forming bonds with those who we are close with. I want to have a lot of activities that will force my peers out of their comfort zones and give them the ability to talk to someone in our grade who they may not have ever had the chance to have a real conversation with. I want to truly highlight the GPS sisterhood within the Class of 2023 as our physical time together comes to a close. Q. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO GIVE GPS STUDENTS A VOICE?

No matter how a person views themselves, the single most important possession that a human being holds is their voice and, at GPS, it is truly the faculty and staff who have taught us to use our voices without fear of how we may be perceived by others. It is important that GPS students are thoughtful in their pursuit of speaking up about things that they care about, and what makes GPS so special is that it provides a space where students feel that their mentors, fellow students, and teachers want to hear what they have to say. Q. WHAT’S YOUR LEADERSHIP ST YLE?

Over my time on CLC, I’ve learned that leadership looks different for everyone and that what you lack in knowledge and in experience, you can make up for with determination and perseverance. The most important shift I’ve made in my leadership skills is that I no longer attempt to mask the stressors of life to seem like the perfect leader. I now understand that to build trust and create connections, I have to be willing to be vulnerable.

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Learning Through Experience WINTERIM FOR MIDDLE SCHOOLERS AT GPS By Lucy Morris Blancett ’09

ONE OF THE MOST ANTICIPATED WEEKS of the school year for GPS students is Winterim. Held in mid-February, Winterim is an opportunity for students to experience learning outside of the traditional classroom setting. In fact, many alumnae report that their Winterim experiences had an impact on what they chose to do in college and beyond.

Winterim experiences for Middle and Upper Schoolers are structured differently. In the Upper School, students can choose from a variety of on- and off-campus learning opportunities based on their interests. For example, this year some students visited Puerto Rico to work on their Spanish and engage in Spanish culture; others learned to scuba dive, visited the Florida Keys, participated in service-learning at Lula Lake, or learned how to adult thanks to lessons on financial responsibility, cooking, car care, and more. In Middle School, the Winterim experiences are curated at the grade level by class deans, so students can learn alongside their classmates. This provides an opportunity for girls to get to know their classmates better while expanding their horizons and taking what they have learned in the classroom and applying it in the real world.

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Sixth-Grade Itinerary

on » Sheep heart dissecti e elderly » Card writing for th r class Cats » Note writing to senio hike, m to learn about tea, » A trip to an area far ate their own lip balm practice yoga, and cre tion » Art fun at Pinspira » Bowling and laser tag

bracelets » Making friendship r aquatic fun » Swimming and othe nter at the UTC Aquatic Ce

sixth-grade

Kipton Lankford Tugman ’92, Dean of the Sixth-Grade Class, with the help of the sixth-grade team, crafted a special week of learning focused on the heart.

“The goal for Winterim in sixth grade is for the girls to have the time and space to bond as a class. Winterim is thoughtfully planned to include ties to each class as well as time for the girls to have fun and get to know each other in a non-academic setting.”—Kipton Lankford Tugman ’92, Dean of the Sixth-Grade Class

on Monday and “We stayed at school ings, since it did Valentine’s Day th We did a sheep heart was Valentine’s Day. ing glass hearts in math us dissection and made out ab ing We had been learn perimeter and radius. ce, en sci in about the heart arteries and veins and ed rn lea of that, and we so we got to see some we used to create our ich about pi in math, wh rves made blankets and sca glass hearts. We also The ts. Ca r wrote notes to ou for the homeless and ff, stu tea a farm and made next day, we went to lk wa re tu , and went on a na drank and smelled tea d an , ek we a ton of fun all and did yoga. We had the on overnight trips in ing we look forward to go k ’28 future!”—Bea Burban G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

seventh-grade

Jenny Bullard, Dean of the Seventh-Grade Class, planned a week of adventure that began on campus and culminated in a two-night stay at an incredible cabin in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Seventh-Grade Itinerary

the GPS makerspace » Catapult building in en’s Basketball Hall of » A tour of the Wom g Museum Fame and the McClun bin and activities at the ca » Family-style meals OberGatlinburg » Winter activities at advisory » Brownie bake-off by tellation identification » Stargazing and cons s Visitor Center » Hiking at Sugarland wn Mall » Shopping at West To

“These grade-level trips provide our girls with an invaluable opportunity to build relationships and to make lasting memories while engaging in a meaningful experience tied to our curricular goals. As with all we do, our goal was to ensure that our plans aligned with our school’s mission, values, and curricular goals and outcomes. While we anticipated several days of fun, we also sought to engage our minds, cultivate some of our strengths, and nurture our self-confidence and respect for others.”—Jenny Bullard, Dean of the Seventh-Grade Class

How to Build A Catapult

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

ith the ng out w a h o t g ttin know lly fun ge we got to get to a e r s a w “It rip, isory. ring the t er level as an adv u D . s s la c school. eep er on a d an we can just at each oth th logy talk more o techno We could ally nice to have n one was stuck use no It was re trip, beca time. It was a lot e h t n o whole allowed than hone the moment on their p e everyone in the r class hav el like ou fe I . ia d e better to m ble to or social . Being a on games ser during the trip ool on a trip clo ing in sch The one got a lot ere learn w e re a t . w t a s really g use wh a w n fu e av ld rade wou and still h r whole g the trip u o t a h t thing making ch hange is want to c use we had so mu a c e b 7 r de ’2 longe miya Pha fun!”—A

The eighth-grade class ventured across the South to learn about Civil Rights, in a trip planned by Jordan McCarter ’96, Dean of the Eighth-Grade Class. Their itinerary was full of historical landmarks, destinations in Chattanooga, Georgia, and Alabama, and—of course—fun.

Eighth-Grade Itinerary » Ed Johnson Memorial Walk

a and this trip to Atlant “We have taken ders ra -g the eighth Birmingham with it e us ars now beca for four or five ye n io ct A hip in glish and Citizens En r ou s th ht wi ig R ns il ig iv al eC about events of th n ar le e d W . an , um es ul ur curric key fig ade a difference, movement that m quite a bit of in ild bu e certainly W e. or m h uc m so while hunting got to play bingo rls gi e th o— to fun, m, they tasted e High Art Museu th in t ar c ifi ec sp for ld of Coke, and of cola at the Wor rs vo fla 0 10 er ov saur bones as e night under dino th d en sp r. to t go they e Science Cente er at the McWan ov ep e th sle h a d tc ha wa we e to autiful experienc be a en be nt ys re wa ffe al di It’s plore and grow as we ex girls laugh, learn, .” er th ge to cities and spaces ish Teacher gl En de ra ghth-G —Lindsey King, Ei

» Scavenger Hunt at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta » Cola tastings at World of Coca-Cola e » Fish sightings at th m Georgia Aquariu » Dinner at the CNN Center » Fun and games at Main Event

» Animal attractions at Zoo Atlanta » Tour of Birmingham Civil Rights Institute » Tour of the 16th Street Baptist Church » Sleepover at McWan Science Center » Ice skating at Pelham Ice Arena » Shopping at Gadsden Mall

Until next year!

eighth-grade

“This was our first out-of-town school trip, and it was really fun. The first day we got there, we started at the High Museum and they gave us a scavenger hunt that Ms. (Diane) Yu had made. It helped us appreciate the art! When we went to Montgomery, we went to the 16th Street Baptist Church and learned about the bombing. It was very interesting. Then we walk ed through a statue garden that had a bunch of scul ptures with QR codes so we could learn abou t them. Then we went to the science museum , where we got to spend the night. It was real ly cool. We ended up getting to see a film abou t cave exploring in a big dome theater, whic h was awesome. Overall, I really enjoyed the trip! I knew it was going to be fun, but it was even more fun than I thought it was going to be. I feel like I got closer to some of my classma tes and talked to people I don’t usually get to talk to.” —Paulina Proshkin ’25

Each year, our faculty work hard to create meaningful Winterim experiences for our students that incorporate learning and class bonding, and we love seeing each girl make the most of the opportunity by fully engaging with the material, talking to classmates they may not typically have the opportunity to, and making memories that will last a lifetime.

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

Class Notes 1940s

2000s

1 NANCY LIBERM AN RATLIFF ’48

shares her gratitude for her GPS education, especially for the five years of Latin she was required to take. “Our eighth-grade teacher was Mary Stuart Becking, a young, inspiring teacher who brought Latin off the pages of a book and into real life. It truly helped when I took Italian in college, and I taught Latin in the public high school in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and in the Presbyterian and Catholic high schools. In the past few years, I have taught vocabulary classes at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute program at the University of Southern Mississippi. It is such fun to open a whole new world of words to adults who never took Latin and never before knew how to pick words apart to find the root meanings. (I use both Latin and Greek roots.) As our language introduces new words almost every day, we can trace them back thousands of years and make more sense of what is being said. Challenge: Find the root of the word "vaccination," and it will floor you how/why we use it. Through our deep GPS involvement in Latin, we also had a good foundation in Greek and Roman mythologies, and I have taught classes in that in high school and at OLLI. I (taught a class) this spring, and the title I assigned to it is: ‘Latin Isn't Dead; It's Immortal.’ I am 91 and going strong, always looking to learn something new. Here's to my GPS education and to the girls attending now and in the future!”

1990s 2 TA M ARA HINES STEWARD '98

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

was appointed by Mayor Tim Kelly and confirmed in March as Chattanooga’s first Chief Equity Officer. “I am deeply honored and excited to join the city and Mayor Kelly in service to our community, its residents, and visitors as we work together to realize his vision for One Chattanooga,” she stated in a release. “Through building bridges, removing barriers, and enabling access, I will work to ensure that Chattanooga is a place where all residents and neighborhoods can thrive and have their voices heard.”

Research by M AITHILEE KUNDA '02, an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Vanderbilt University and Director of Vanderbilt’s Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence and Visual Analogical Systems, was recently featured in an article in the The New York Times. Professor Kunda and her colleagues created a video game called “Film Detective,” piloted this spring, where the player wakes up in the year 3021 and has to assist a scientist to catch a villain who is stealing items from the Museum of Human History. The game is designed to be played by those with autism, many of whom have “superior visual thinking but have a lot of difficulty with social action,” Kunda said. Through the use of artificial intelligence, Kunda was able to use gaming with movie clips to ask players why characters act how they did and what was their thinking behind it. Kunda also directs Vanderbilt’s Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence and Visual Analogical Systems and is a researcher at Vanderbilt’s Frist Center for Autism and Innovation. 4 MICHAL HOWICK ’03 recently completed a two-year graduate school program in strategy at Virginia Commonwealth University Brandcenter and has started a position as the Associate Director, Strategic Enrollment and Communications at Brandcenter. 5 MEREDITH A . NEAL ’05 was nominated by her organizational group in TVA, Power Operations, for Engineer of the Year for TVA. “I took AP Physics B with Mr. Connor. I had never been exceptionally good at science or math up to that point, but the logical way he taught us really changed my life,” she said. “Mr. Conner helped me realize that I could be good at science, and the next year when I was in his AP Calculus class, I realized that I was good at math, too. His classroom was a huge turning point for my entire life.”

CLASS NOTES

COLLEEN BAILEY ’06, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering at the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas. 6 KRISTINA SEL ZER ’08, DVM, recently completed her doctoral program at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine.

L AUREN BAILEY ’08 works as a certified Head Vet Tech at Eye Care for Animals in Chicago, Illinois.

2010s 7 In October 2021, STACI THOMPSON BRUCE ’10 was promoted to Vice President

of Compliance at Environmental 360, Inc. Bruce has been with the firm since graduating magna cum laude from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a degree in environmental science. She serves clients across the country by ensuring their compliance with federal and state environmental regulations. PAY TON LEECH THODE ’10 graduated residency this year from the University of Cincinnati. She will be an emergency medicine doctor at Morton Hospital in Taunton, Massachusetts. She recently relocated to Barrington, Rhode Island, to be closer to her husband’s family. 8 RAEW YN ARCADIA DUVALL ’12

and her team made news all the way across the pond on BBC.com with their work on a tiny wheeled robot called Iris, which could become the first uncrewed rover sent by the US to explore the Moon. Iris has not been built by experienced engineers at NASA or a large aerospace company but by students at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. The robot was recently secured to its lunar lander, ahead of a launch scheduled for mid-2022.

In May, M ARY REBECCA “BECK Y ” GARDNER ’13 graduated from Columbia Law School, where she served as President of the student body during her second year. In the fall, Gardner will begin work for a boutique Boston law firm that represents labor unions. 9 HANNAH GEERLINGS ’15, a secondyear master’s student studying English at the University of Tennessee, was selected for a 2022-23 Fulbright student award. She will be teaching English at a university in Romania while working on a research paper about public memory in Romanian museums. “I’m most excited to learn more about international education, as I hope to teach English internationally. I also focused on Central and Eastern European history as an undergraduate, so I’m excited to spend time in a country that I’ve studied before but have never actually visited,” said Geerlings.

M ACKENZIE HOBBS ’15 graduated with

honors from the University of Tennessee College of Law and was recognized at the gold level for pro bono distinguished service. HALEY RICHARDSON TREADWAY ’15 recently graduated from the University

of Tennessee with her master’s degree in landscape architecture and started a new position as a Hamilton County Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent.

SHARE YOUR NEWS WITH US AT ALUMNEWS@GPS.EDU!

10 A University of Tennessee honors economics student, A MEERA BHAT TI ’18 recently started a career as a Public Sector Financial Services Analyst at Guidehouse in Washington, D.C., after completing her BS in business administration with a concentration in international business. 11 After earning a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology with a minor in communications from East Tennessee State University, MEGAN DEL ANEY ’18 heads to graduate school this fall to become a speech therapist. 12 K YLI ERWIN ’18

starts graduate school this fall to become a behavioral therapist after obtaining a BS in psychology with a minor in family science from Belmont University. G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

CLASS NOTES

After graduating from Tusculum University with a BS in criminal justice and a BA in psychology, TAYLOR FLOYD ’18 began federal law enforcement training in May. 14 HOLLIS GAFFNEY ’18

recently began her career as a Sales Management Associate with PepsiCo-Frito Lay after graduating with a degree in marketing and collateral in human resource management from Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. 15 M AGGIE HILL ’18

graduated from Auburn University with a BA in communication and spent her summer at Camp Merrie-Woode as Head of the Waterfront, a lifelong goal!

ELLEE JACKSON ’18 recently started

a criminal justice master’s program after completing a BS in criminal justice at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. 16 TATIANA POGGI ’18

recently graduated magna cum laude from Tulane University with a BA in political economy and a BSM in legal studies in business, completing an honors thesis in political economy titled “Trends in Nearshoring and Regionalization: U.S. Supply Chain Shifts in Mexico and China” with the guidance of committee members, Dr. Patrick Egan, Dr. Thomas Oatley, and Dr. James Huck. She was honored to receive the Tulane 34 Award as part of the Murphy Institute, as well as the Charles H. Murphy Prize in Political Economy and the award for Senior Honors Scholar in Political Economy. Poggi was also excited to have been inducted into Tulane’s Phi Beta Kappa chapter. This August she will make her new home in Mexico.

After her graduation from the University of Alabama with a BS in economics, a BA in history, and a minor in Spanish, HANNAH PRESCOT T ’18 will begin graduate school this fall at Alabama working toward an MBA specializing in business analytics. 18

After graduating with a BS in hospitality management from the University of Mississippi, CHARLOT TE SMITH ’18 will complete an internship with Willow Tree Planning in Cleveland, Tennessee, before relocating to Bradenton, Florida. 19 K ATHERINE STA MEY ’18

will advance to the master’s program this fall at her alma mater after earning her BS in mechanical engineering at the University of Alabama. SHELBY WALTERS ’18 recently graduated from Duke University with dual degrees in biology and evolutionary anthropology. She will go on to get a master’s in kinesiology before medical school. Walters also played softball for the Blue Devils for four years, finishing their final season as the #12 national seed in the NCAA tournament. 20 This fall HANNAH SANDERS ’19 will begin pursuing her masters in international affairs at Penn State University after graduating cum laude in three years with her bachelor’s degree in intelligence and national security studies plus a double minor in political science and pre-law from Coastal Carolina University. 21

After graduating summa cum laude in three years with her BS in biology on a pre-med track at Kennesaw State University Honors College, K AITLYN SONGER ’19 started dental school at the Dental College of Georgia Augusta University, her top choice.

19 52

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

CLASS NOTES

On-Campus Alumnae Updates 22

22 PATRICE HOBBS GL ASS ’88

returned to GPS in January as the Director of Advancement Services. She applies her vast experience in identifying funding opportunities through wealth screening, prospect research, and analytics, stewards close to 100 endowed funds, and works to oversee the pipeline to run both small and large fundraising campaigns. 23 K AT YE ADA MS COUCH ’92

has been named the inaugural Dean of Teaching and Learning and will lead The Teaching and Learning Center that supports all students while providing professional development opportunities and support for faculty members. 24 BETH CRESWELL WILSON ’96

began her role as our Head of Upper School on July 1. Previously the Upper School Assistant Principal at The Galloway School in Atlanta, Georgia, Wilson brings to GPS a wealth of knowledge and experience in academic programming and curriculum development that focus on the whole child.

25 AUGUSTA GLENDENNING WEBB ’98,

who joined GPS last fall as a member of the arts department and an admission associate, will transition fully into teaching this fall. This spring she shadowed the legendary Isabel Bryan McCall ’69 and will add ceramics beginning in August to her middle school art teaching load. Additionally, Webb will teach a Biblical Ethics course next year as well as serve as a club sponsor for Christian Forum. 26 L AUREN L AWRENCE SWANSON ’09

was recently promoted to Director of Belonging and Community Engagement where she will continue to work to ensure that each girl feels valued, loved, and supported throughout her tenure at GPS. Swanson will also add Dean of the Freshman Class to her role this fall.

27 RACHEL DURHA M FINCH ’13

was recently hired as the Director of Annual Giving within the Development Office. Finch comes to GPS from her most recent role as Development Specialist at the United Way of Chattanooga, where she crafted and improved annual fund functions, processes, and community engagement opportunities.

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

Alum Updates

In Memoriam 1 ADELINE MOON HERSEY ’39

2 V IRGINIA JO FRA ZIER GILM AN ’42

3 MIRIA M RHYNE BECK ’45

| May 2, 2022

| July 28, 2021

4 K ATHERINE HOLL AND ’45 2

| July 26, 2021

| February 19, 2022

5 MARTHA “MIMI” STEPHENS LANIER ’47

| March 16, 2022

6 ANN ELIZABETH LATIMORE DEVANEY ’48 | March 26, 2022 7 M ARILYN CATER HARLIN ’56 9

8 HELEN MILLER MOORE ’60

| December 20, 2021

9 JULIE JOHNSON RICHARDS ’64

| January 9, 2022

10 M ARIAN MCCA MY PHILLIPS ’66

| January 28, 2022

11 LYNN ALSOBROOK ’66

| April 14, 2022

13 BRENDA KIRK HIXON ’67 14 JILL MCNEW RUANE ’67 10

| November 21, 2021

| November 1, 2021

| October 23, 2021

15 JULIE GILM AN PETROUTSON ’69

| April 7, 2022

16 M ATILDA FASSNACHT MISGEN ’73 4

17 ROBYN HYDE BURKS ’75

| October 22, 2021

18 MEG O’NEILL CANNON ’99 19 BETH KIRBY ’01

| April 25, 2022

| April 18, 2022

| March 29, 2022

FORMER FACULTY 20 ANNE PL AT T

| January 19, 2022.

Weddings

21 KIMBERLY PET T YJOHN ’97 22 K ATHERINE BROCK ’02 23 KENDALL GIBSON '03 24 BETSY BURNET T ’05 25 ERIN DUNN ’08

to Marty Dunn

to Ryan Maurer 27

to Billy Miller

to Jake Farrar

to Benjamin Walke

26 MONICA HARVEY '08 27 ROBYN GREENE ’11

to Travis Ridenbaugh

to Brandon Carter

28 ELLER M ALLCHOK ’11

to Thomas Kelliher

29 SARAH DOUGL AS MCCALL ’11 30 MIRANDA AVAKIAN ’12

to Nathan Elliott

to Logan Fletcher

M ARY REBECCA GARDNER ’13 to Megan Schippmann

BAILEY DAVENPORT ’14 to Bradley Abbott

LEAH RUSSELL ’14 to Matthew Jones

CAROLINE VANCE ’14 to Eric Lan

35 ANNE MILLER WELBORN ’15

to Wes Young 24

WE LOVE HEARING ABOUT YOUR SPECIAL DAY! SEND YOUR PHOTOS TO ALUMNEWS@GPS.EDU.

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

New Arrivals

36 JORDAN MCCARTER ’96

a son, Charles “Charlie” Brearley Becklin

37 JENNIFER HADDOCK EASTERLING ’03

a daughter, Hadley James Easterling

38 K ATE BURKE STREIP ’03

a son, Alder Henry Streip

39 C HARLOT TE BEENE WELLS ’03

a daughter, Talley Marie Wells

EMILY HUNTZINGER BOWM AN ’04 a daughter, Madeline Bowman

BETSY BURNET T ’05 a son, Shapard Ewing Farrar

42 PORCHE WARREN ADAMS ’07

a son, John Brady Adams

43 SHELBY MONTAGUE CA MPOBASSO ’07

a son, Oliver Thomas Campobasso

44 M ARY CL ARE KENT HOLM ’08

a son, Donald Sutherland Holm V

45 JENNA CAMPBELL DEMENT ’09

a son, Guy Harris Dement

46 PAY TON LEECH THODE ’10

a son, Emmet Morgan Thode

BRING ON THE BABIES! SHARE BY EMAILING US AT ALUMNEWS@GPS.EDU.

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

RACHEL DURHA M FINCH ’13 a daughter, Peyton Campbell Finch

Leaving a

Legacy HONORING OUR RETIREES AND THEIR L ASTING IMPACT ON GPS

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

LEAVING A LEGACY

Anita Vetter Accounts Payable/Payroll Manager M ANY M AY NOT KNOW that Anita Vetter began her time at GPS with an end-date in sight. “I was hired in October 1998 to fill in while someone was out on an eight-week medical leave,” she says. Of course, it was clear she was indispensable, and when the employee returned to work, Vetter was asked to stay on part-time to record receivables in the Business Office. Her success in that role led to a full-time position the following school year in the Development Office as the Database Manager, where she stayed for 14 years before returning to her Business Office roots for eight years as the Accounts Payable/Payroll Manager upon her colleague’s retirement.

Known for her endless supply of candy in her office to anyone who needed a pickme-up throughout the day, Vetter has two daughters who graduated from GPS during her time as an employee—Joy, Class of 1999, and Amy, Class of 2002—and she looks back fondly on their accomplishments on the swim team and their years as Bruisers. She’s been here through some of the highest highs—”Helping with the Centennial Celebration was fun!”—and lowest lows—

”Losing Mr. Tucker is a sad memory for me, as he played a most important role in my employment at GPS. He and Terri were always so kind to me, and they loved my daughters.” But she loves the integrity and tradition of the school. Always a quick wit, Vetter likens her career at GPS to the United States of America. “It isn’t perfect, but you don’t want to be, live, or work anywhere else.” She admits she won’t miss the deadlines, but she will miss the friends she has made and kept over the last 23 years. “Just being trusted to be a part of what makes GPS a successful school for young women is memorable and rewarding for me,” she says. Vetter holds her family near and dear and says experiencing her daughters becoming accomplished and successful adults, wives, and mothers has been the culmination of her role as a mother. Today, she is “Oma” to five grandchildren, a role that likely keeps her plenty busy, but she hopes to spend her retirement traveling and, at some point, helping nurses in the NICU at Erlanger “rock the little babies.”

“Long after her girls have graduated from GPS, Anita continues to demonstrate her love for this place by sewing dresses for girls and their dolls. Plus, she has promised to share her lottery winnings with GPS, so we keep our fingers crossed for her. We miss her uproarious laughter and always upbeat spirit in the office and around campus and have fun observing her role as an active grandmother.” —Mark Vosskamp, Chief Financial Officer

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

LEAVING A LEGACY

Sheryl Kreis Assistant to the Head of School WHAT CAN’T SHERYL KREIS DO?!

She runs GPS like a tight ship, always with a smile, a funny quip, and a fashionable outfit. Kreis retires from GPS this year after serving 22 years as the Assistant to the Head of School, though she began her career here as the Registrar in 1990. “For my first 10 years, I loved knowing the girls personally in the role of creating their class schedules,” she says. “As Assistant to the Head of School, I have loved working closely with trustees and all of the GPS employees. I also loved that no two days were alike.” Kreis has been steadfast in her dedication to GPS because she genuinely believes in singlesex education. Her daughter graduated from GPS in 2001, and her son from McCallie in 2003. “Both want their children to attend their alma maters!” she says. Given her strong tenure, Kreis has experienced the changing landscape of GPS over the years, which has proven she is smart, adaptable, and ready to take on any

challenge. “I have been fortunate to work with five heads of school,” she says. “This has required agility to adapt to different leadership styles and personalities.” She notes specifically that she will “miss terribly the privilege and joy it’s been to work directly with Megan.” With her newfound free time, Kreis looks forward to being the wife, mother, grandmother, and friend that the time constraints of her job have prohibited. “I also look forward to getting settled in a home we are renovating, which is even closer to my children,” she says. Kreis looks back on her time at GPS fondly. “It’s been a fabulous place to work. It’s been a blessing to work closely with trustees and employees. I value the many friendships and relationships made possible because of my employment at GPS.” With her signature wit she admits, “I have loved almost every minute!”

“Faithfully serving five heads of school, Sheryl has been the 'face' of our school—always working with integrity, professionalism, empathy, and her signature strength—grace. Bottom line: because of her dedication, she has made an impact on every member of our community that will last long after her departure. She will be a dearly missed colleague, partner, and friend. We wish Sheryl and her husband, Jim, all the best as they begin this next chapter together. Here’s to YOU, Sheryl!” —Megan Cover, Head of School

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

LEAVING A LEGACY

Susan Crownover Head Varsity Softball Coach and PE Teacher AS SUSAN CROWNOVER’S CAREER

at GPS comes to a close and her retirement draws near, it becomes evident we are losing a legend. She has taught and coached at GPS for 31 years, 29 as head softball coach and nine as head basketball coach. From 2004–13, she coached both sports back-to-back. During her 28 seasons as Head Coach of the softball program, her teams made 23 state tournament appearances and earned eight state championships—in 1998, 2000, 2001, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2014—and 13 state runner-up titles. Over decades, she never had a losing record and even coached 22 20+ win seasons. Thirty-four of her softball players continued their playing careers in college. Crownover was fortunate to share some of her softball years with her daughter, Kelby. “My most memorable moment from my time at GPS was when we won the state softball championship in 2014, Kelby’s senior year. We had to beat Baylor twice to win it, and we did. Seeing the joy on her face, sharing that moment with her and knowing what an accomplishment it was, was so satisfying,” she says. Though she admits she doesn’t worry much about personal accomplishments—“As a

coach of a team sport, I am only successful when my team is successful”—a career as long and impactful as Crownover’s comes filled with accolades. In 2007, she was named the NFHS State Softball Coach of the Year and TWSA Softball Coach of the Year, which she earned again the following year. In 2012, she was named TSSAA AF Bridges Award Female Coach of the Year, and in 2016, she was inducted into the Greater Chattanooga Coaches Hall of Fame. That same year, she earned the Allan Morris/Jim Morgan Award, which is given to an athlete or person involved in athletics that has overcome great physical challenges or through diligent persistence has accomplished goals that most people in their situation would not even attempt. She has also earned the Scrappy Moore Softball Coaches Award and the Chattanooga Times Free Press Coach of the Year three times. Crownover admits she will miss the people and the excitement of the girls on special days like the first day of school, big athletic games and wins, May Day, and more, but she is looking forward to retirement, alongside her husband, David, who is also retiring from teaching and coaching this year. The couple plan to devote time to spoiling their grandchildren and traveling.

“I am honored to say I’ve spent 23 years working with Susan Crownover at GPS. We have been through hard moments in life and always knew the other was or would be right there … she is the GOAT (greatest of all time)! That’s also how she is for her players. There will likely never be another like her on our coaching staff. A career that has been as long and as successful as hers does that. And I can’t tell you how many belly laughs and inside jokes we have had where we haven’t had to say a word but knew what the other one was thinking! She has always been one of my mentors, but she is also my ‘framily’ for life.” —Kim Leffew, Director of Alumnae & External Relations 60

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

LEAVING A LEGACY

Susan McCarter College Counseling Consultant VOTED “MOST TALENTED” IN HIGH SCHOOL , Susan McCarter has graciously

shared her talents in a variety of roles throughout her extensive tenure at GPS. In 1993, she was hired as the Director of the GPS | McCallie Coordinate Program, which saw great success under her tutelage before she transitioned into the role she’s best known for—Director of College Counseling. McCarter says her career at GPS has been one of professional development. “I have been very active in organizations, visited colleges in all parts of the country, and learned about the demands of my position. I’ve also appreciated the growth I’ve seen in my students as they’ve gone through the process and then returned to GPS to share their college experiences.” She says what brought her the most joy was dreaming about the future with her students—the colleges they might attend, the careers they might pursue, and what their lives might look like down the road. “College counseling is all about possibilities,” she says.

Beyond the role itself, McCarter enjoyed working alongside her sister, Anne Exum, and her daughter, Jordan McCarter ’96, even if their time at the school didn’t overlap for long. “I feel like my personal legacy is having provided an education for my daughter at GPS. The school has changed both her life and mine.” McCarter also worked hard outside of GPS, serving as President of SACAC (Southern Association for College Admissions Counseling), from which she was presented with the Larry West Award for outstanding contribution. She also spent time working with less advantaged students through Camp College, a program sponsored by SACAC, and was also involved in the Coast to Coast College Fair for more than 20 years. McCarter, who says her job was “always challenging and enlightening and hopeful,” will be greatly missed, but we’re we’re certain she’ll will stay equally as fulfilled in her newly acquired free time; she plans to care for her grandson, Charlie, volunteer at the Food Bank, travel, and usher for the Chattanooga Lookouts.

“Susan’s work in the world of college counseling is wellknown and respected in our region and beyond because of her leadership in SACAC (Southern Association for College Admission Counseling) and the larger national organization, NACAC. Rarely do I speak with a college counselor from another independent school when they don’t mention Susan and sing her praises. Her vast expertise, proven track record, and institutional knowledge will all be missed greatly.” —Jenise Gordon, Head of Upper School

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

So Long,

Farewell HONORING LONG-TIME FACULT Y AND STAFF HEADING FOR NEW ADVENTURES

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

SO LONG, FAREWELL

Bryant Haynes Science Teacher, SWENext Sponsor, President of the Cum Laude Selection Committee WHEN IT COMES TO GPS ICONS,

Bryant Haynes is the embodiment. Anyone who has been fortunate enough to have him as a teacher remembers his egg drop project, the ping pong ball explosion demonstration, the lamp-building project, the tirechanging lab, and—of course—his regular exclamations of “MERCY!” While Haynes has spent years developing custom demonstrations and materials for his classroom lessons—he says he’d like to be remembered for “pulling out all the stops in trying to help students learn how the physical universe works”—his favorite moments come from the one-onone interactions he has with those who need additional assistance or are working through a difficult concept. “I love seeing ‘AHA!’ happen, when the student gets it,” he says. But he’s done so much more than thrive in the classroom. For instance, did you know he made his acting debut as the Wicked Witch of the East in the GPS | McCallie production of The Wiz? Or that he operated the pulley system for the titular character in 2006’s Peter Pan shows? He’s also served as the president of the Cum Laude Selection Committee for numerous years and been asked countless times to speak on the behalf of his students during the induction ceremonies.

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Haynes says his career at GPS has been the best job he’s ever had. “What’s made it good for me has been great colleagues, motivated students, a freedom to steer my courses in the direction I choose without too much interference, and the freedom to try something unusual. GPS is great at providing opportunities for students and teachers to shine at whatever they do best.” Outside of school, Haynes has many personal accomplishments of which he’s most proud. Many know he is a member of Celtic/folk band Stringer’s Ridge, which performs across the region regularly. He’s also proud of riding his bike to work and of maintaining a happy and healthy marriage. In fact, he says that during his time at GPS, he and his wife undertook Cedar Lane Farms, where they grew and marketed garden and farm products. “That about wore us out!” he admits. Though Haynes is leaving GPS, he’s certainly not slowing down. He and his wife are in the midst of building a new home, and he has applied to work in several national parks, including Glacier, Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, Zion, and more. The pair are eager to “head off into the wild blue yonder,” though they plan to return to Chattanooga when they can. Perhaps a Northern summer season and a Southern winter season? “Time will tell ….”

I have had many wonderful teaching role models during my time at GPS, but none more influential than Bryant Haynes. Bryant’s command of his disciplines and the thoughtfulness, thoroughness, and creativity of his instruction set high bars. His organizational skills, if possible, are even more impressive. In addition to all the usual trappings that go with teaching physics, chemistry and mathematics, Bryant’s personhood is a most valuable asset, as a beloved teacher or as an esteemed colleague. We are better for the 22 years Bryant Haynes has devoted to GPS. —KEITH SANDERS, CHEMISTRY TEACHER

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G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

SO LONG, FAREWELL

Melanie Northcutt Data Operations Manager IT M AY SEEM LIKE a less-than-typical career trajectory to go from teaching Latin to managing data operations and leading the school’s integration to a brand-new student and teacher information system, but for Melanie Northcutt, the transition just made sense.

Northcutt began her career at GPS in 2000 as a teacher—first Latin, then Digital Storytelling and Intro to Tech. From there, she moved behind the scenes. She explains, “The registrar retired over Christmas, and Mr. Tucker asked me if I would take her position. He said he knew I was not afraid of technology. I also took over managing the Development database with that job. Then in 2014 when we started investigating integrating our platforms MyGPS, then-Director of IT Daniel Millbank realized that someone needed to oversee that process, so the Data Operations Manager position was created. I transitioned to that role and became full time IT.” While Northcutt enjoyed learning more about each department and how they functioned—”It really gives you an appreciation for how the whole school works together,” she says—she was worried she would miss the interactions with students. Fortunately, Winterim provided her the opportunity to continue to form bonds. “Mrs. Leffew and I took students on all sorts of trips over the years, and I got to

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really know them outside of the classroom while seeing lots of cool places.” The relationships with students, families, and colleagues are what Northcutt enjoyed most about her time at GPS. “Some of my best friendships came out of GPS. My colleagues have been with me through life’s highs and lows. I also have a few friends who were GPS moms who started out as parents and then turned into friendships even after their girls graduated,” she says. “And the absolute best is when former students graduate, become adults and you become friends or colleagues. It’s really cool to see someone grow from a sixth-grader to become a mom of a sixth-grader! Not many jobs give you that perspective!” Throughout her GPS tenure, Northcutt accomplished countless feats, such as earning her MEd while teaching and launching MyGPS, which she says required about two years of behind-thescenes work, data clean up, training, and more, but her proudest accomplishment is a bit more personal—her son. “He’s the best thing I’ve ever done and my motivation for most everything! I love the person he is and that he makes me laugh every day. I want him to know that the ‘safe’ thing isn’t always the best thing! Nothing risked, nothing gained. Not many moms leave their job of 22 years to start a new career.”

Melanie was integral to the success of the MyGPS program. She was able to pull from her teaching and registrar experience to help represent her fellow teachers through a very technical process. This work led us to the school's first fully integrated learning and student information system. Before MyGPS there was no consistent access to information. This new system allowed for master test scheduling, online assessments, and My Day student schedules to name a few. Melanie brought an enthusiastic personality and excitement to the department. She would often share a new data connector she had found or a custom report she created. She was always looking for new ways to leverage information data in new and impactful ways. —CHRIS TWOMBLEY, DIRECTOR OF IT

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

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SO LONG, FAREWELL

Jenise Gordon Head of Upper School, Biology Teacher JENISE GORDON has been an integral

part of GPS from day one. This year, she leaves her position as Head of Upper School, but she has also been a biology teacher for hundreds of students, a club sponsor, a coach, and so much more. Asked for one word to describe her GPS career? “Thorough,” she says. “There are few things at GPS that I have not been involved with at some point over the past 18 years.” Some of Gordon’s favorite memories come from those roles that required her to really become enmeshed with the community. For example, she looks fondly back on winning state championships in bowling (2012) and softball (2014). But she admits her favorite role has always been teacher. “Being in the classroom is where I find the most joy and the way I recharge each day.” Gordon’s students have always been privy to her fun and outgoing personality and say she has a way of making lessons fun. Even the tough ones. “The entire human reproduction unit has probably created the most interesting class interactions,” she says. But beyond creating a lively and entertaining classroom, Gordon’s students have always been able to see that she puts her students at the center of every decision she makes.

And, of course, the students are what she will miss most. “My students have always brought such positive energy to the classroom,” she says. “I love watching them grow in their learning capacity.” As involved as Gordon has been in the GPS community, she too has served her greater community well. This year, she served as the Chairwoman of the American Legion Auxiliary Volunteer Girls State after volunteering with the organization, which is designed to empower strong leaders through support, collaboration, active citizenship, and more, for 32 years. With the school year and VGS in the rearview, Gordon has already taken her next steps. On June 15, she began her Southbound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. “This 2,194-mile journey usually takes people six months, but I am hopeful I can complete it in four-and-a-half,” she says. We feel confident she will achieve (and likely surpass) her goal. And when she’s done? We invite her to a karaoke night where she can do her best rendition of Janis Joplin’s “Me and Bobby McGee.”

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Jenise Gordon loves this school and these girls, and always has, with her whole heart. Whether she is teaching biology in the classroom, playing dodgeball against the Upper School girls, or joining her faculty in a conversation about teaching strategies, she does it all with a genuine love for GPS and what is best for our girls. She has been a true mentor and partner to so many, and I know without a doubt that this school is a better place because of Ms. Gordon. I will miss her dearly. —LYNNE MACZIEWSKI, ASSOCIATE HEAD OF SCHOOL AND HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL

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G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

SO LONG, FAREWELL

Diane Walker Mathematics Teacher, SWENext Sponsor, and Christian Forum Sponsor DIANE WALKER began her teaching career at GPS in 2004, and what a career it’s been. She is beloved by current students and alumnae alike and is known for her whiteboard countdowns that reference how many days until the next break and “Walker’s Words of Wisdom.” One of her most iconic sayings is, “I can do anything if it’s temporary.”

She also enjoys reminding girls to have grit and to keep a growth mindset. Her sage advice has been shared with many, as she has been asked to speak on students’ behalf for Cum Laude inductions every year for the last 10 years. “These girls are amazing,” she says. Walker is known for being a huge supporter of her students—in fact, she enjoys holding encouraging signs on the front sidewalk so they know they are known and loved— and she even won a prize from Director of Athletics Jay Watts earlier this year for being the faculty member who has attended the most athletic events over the course of the year. She is everyone’s #1 fan and admits watching the girls on the athletics fields is one of her favorite things about working at GPS. When it comes to describing her career at GPS, Walker says, “The most rewarding career is to lift another up,” and she has done just that by developing and sponsoring clubs and organizations that

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empower students to speak up confidently. In 2015, she started GPS’s chapter of SWENext—Society of Women Engineers Club, which was one of the first five SWENext clubs in the United States at the high school level. She has also been influential as a sponsor of Christian Forum and has even organized regular prayer meetings for faculty and staff. Beyond that, she served as an inaugural member of numerous campus organizations such as the Curie Society, the Religious Roundtable, the Innovation Technology Group, Entrepreneurship Club, and more, helping to influence their missions. Of course, just because she’s influencing and impacting the lives of others doesn’t mean she can’t have a little fun. Some of her more memorable moments from her time at GPS involve the ping pong ball pranks between her and retired history teacher Mr. Glen Vey, which ran for years and involved multiple students. She’s also passionate about riding her Harley and enjoying weekend camping trips with her husband. Walker is humble and has spent many years working behind the scenes, but she says the career accomplishment she’s most proud of is spending 18 years changing lives and being recognized as one of the most influential when it comes to girls feeling as if they belong, according to a recent student survey.

Diane’s involvement on campus will certainly be missed! She weaves the importance of a growth mindset throughout her classes, has successfully implemented a flipped classroom, and consistently meets her students where they are. She has played an integral role as a Christian Forum and SWENext sponsor and is a Bruiser Athletics mega-fan, cheering on our students from the stands. We’re lucky to have had her as a part of our community. —COURTNEY MEISSNER, MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT CHAIR

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

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SO LONG, FAREWELL

Heather Landreth Upper School Counselor HEATHER L ANDRETH wasn’t planning

to pursue counseling when she went to college. In fact, she originally intended to get her business degree with a retail and consumer sciences minor. But as it goes, one class changed it all, and so began her path to GPS! “One semester I decided to take abnormal psychology. No class had ever piqued my interest the way that one did—I needed to know more,” she says. “I changed my major to psychology and continued on to grad school, earning my master’s degree in marriage and family therapy with a specialization in child and adolescent counseling. A former grad school professor reached out to me thinking I would be a good fit for an opening at GPS, and I interviewed with Mr. Tucker and Mrs. Pierce the following week. I gladly accepted the offer!” Landreth started her position at GPS in 2008, and a few moments remain foremost in her mind. “I did not attend GPS, so I spent my first year learning as much as possible about the culture. On numerous occasions teachers invited me to their classes when they were doing something unique. One history class culminated in a dance party wherein the girls dressed in costumes and performed a dance that was popular during their assigned decade. I was taken by the poise, confidence, knowledge, and commitment each girl demonstrated as she performed her skit for

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her teacher, her classmates, and me. That was the moment I realized how different the all-girl learning environment was from the coeducational experience I received. It wasn’t simply that the assignment was girl-centric, but that psychological safety was evident in the room. They felt free to lean into the assignment without fear of criticism or judgment. Fourteen years later, I still channel the confidence of the freshman who did the worm in front of her classmates when I need an extra boost!” She also admits she was a little confused by the May Day tradition for the first few years, but following a tragic loss in the GPS community, she experienced the magic. “Certainty, connection, and joy is what we all needed. May Day, and all its planning, provided that in triplicate. In real time, I observed community in action,” she says. “May Day grounded us all. It gave everyone a focus, provided a sense of control, and granted us permission to celebrate.” In her work, Landreth regularly refers to a quote one of her professors said: “You can know every therapeutic intervention that has ever existed, but what will have the greatest impact with clients is being a non-anxious, non-judgmental presence.” She says she hopes she will be remembered as someone people felt safe with and who could provide a sense of calm regardless of circumstances.

Heather has been such a loyal colleague and friend to me over the last four years. She made my transition to GPS a dream through her guidance and patience. She has shaped the role of the GPS counselor into what it is today and has impacted so many lives. I will miss having her across the lawn to problem solve and consult with, to create and learn new technology with, and, mostly, to laugh with! —CASEY CALDWELL SANTOS ’08, MIDDLE SCHOOL COUNSELING SPECIALIST

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G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

DEVELOPMENT

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER

fter two years of abbreviated gatherings, traveling, and face-to-face meetings, 2021-22 afforded us numerous opportunities to be together once again.

Our new Head of School, Megan Cover, traveled along with members of the Development team to meet alumnae in cities around the North, Southeast, and Texas. See page 74 for photos and details about where we're headed next. She also welcomed Chattanoogaarea alumnae to Founders House, her family’s home on campus. This spring, we were overjoyed to be able to host the first in-person reunion for classes ending in 2 and 7. Members of classes spanning from 1950 to 2021 joined the Class of 2022 for the alumnae luncheon and award ceremonies. The next day saw the return of a fan-favorite—the GPS Egg Hunt. It was so fun to see so many future Bruisers on campus! Grandparents and special friends joined us for A Grand Afternoon with the Girls in April, exploring campus, meeting friends and faculty, posing for pictures, and getting lots of welldeserved hugs. To kick off the day’s festivities, let’s just say campus was alive with The Sound of Music! Attendees enjoyed a preview of the GPS | McCallie musical, two years in the making, prior to its opening weekend. As with dozens of other celebratory student, parent, faculty, and staff events throughout the year, Grandparents & Special Friends Day was planned and led splendidly by our Parent Council volunteers. One silver lining of the pandemic? We learned how to grow a robust online auction in place of in-person silent and live formats. As a result, the Our Girls | Our GPS online auction in March enjoyed a record-breaking year of sponsorships and bids to benefit the school’s annual Impact Fund. Hundreds of GPS community members celebrated and connected at the Bruiser Bash as we danced the night away at Gilman Hall to the grooves and tunes of Utopia, an R&B band from Tullahoma, Tennessee. Last but certainly not least, your generosity allowed us to exceed our annual Impact Fund goal of $1.2 million. In addition, an anonymous donor made a $30,000 match on 2.22.22—double day—successfully challenging the community to give to the Black Alumnae Council Endowed Scholarship, which now sits around $130,000 (and growing) in just one year. Pledge and realized planned gifts continue to make a huge and lasting impact on the school’s ability to plan for the future and meet the needs of our students and faculty. I can’t wait to see what 2022-23 brings for GPS. Not a day goes by that I don’t assert that GPS is the best place to work. This community, as you know, is incredibly special and dedicated to fostering an environment where girls can thrive and be the best version of themselves. We thank you for your support of the mission and can’t wait to see you in your hometown or on campus very soon. Ali Gant, Chief Advancement Officer HAVE YOU MADE THE CONNECTION? JOIN YOUR GPS SISTERS ON THE ALUMNAE NETWORK: GPSALUMNAE.ORG, AN ONLINE PLATFORM EXCLUSIVELY FOR GPS GRADUATES

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

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A SMALL ARMY OF PARENT COUNCIL VOLUNTEERS PLANNED, COORDINATED, AND EXECUTED MORE THAN A DOZEN CELEBRATORY STUDENT, PARENT, FACULTY, AND STAFF EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. EXAMPLES INCLUDE:

TOTAL INCOME FROM BRUISER EATS

WAS ANONYMOUSLY DONATED IN A MATCH EFFORT FOR THE BLACK ALUMNAE COUNCIL SCHOLARSHIP FUND–THE GOAL WAS REACHED IN RECORD TIME!

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

TOTAL INCOME FROM THE GOLDEN BUCKLE

The Golden Buckle GPS

W -T

O O -Y O U U N I F O R M S H

GRANDPARENTS AND SPECIAL FRIENDS VISITED CAMPUS IN APRIL TO SEE WHAT LIFE AT GPS IS LIKE FOR THEIR GIRLS.

that we still may be, Proven through every test the GPS. Here's to the girls of the GPS. wear for her. Here's to the black and blue. Here's ugh every test, Worthy the school we most 72 180 17 ref the GPS. Here's to the lessons, too. Here's to $246,000+ 98% Giving nd blue. Here's to the hope that we still may be DAY we most revere. Here's to the GPS. Here's to Save the Date! $1.2M+ oo. Here's to the ring we wear for her. Here's to 09.12.22 still may be, Proven through every test, WorPS. Here's to the girls of the GPS. Here's for her. Here's to300+ the black and blue. Here's to h every test, Worthy the school we most revere. GPS. Here's to the lessons, too. Here's to the DEVELOPMENT

224 GIFTS FROM

ALUMNAE

PARENTS

EMPLOYEES

TOTALLED

OF GPS FACULTY AND STAFF MEMBERS CONTRIBUTED TO OUR ANNUAL IMPACT FUND.

benefiting

GIRLS PREPARATORY SCHOOL ANNUAL IMPACT FUND

GIVING DAY 2022 IS ON FOUNDERS DAY

RAISED FOR THE ANNUAL IMPACT FUND. WE ARE THANKFUL FOR THE GENEROSITY OF OUR COMMUNITY!

MEMBERS OF THE GPS COMMUNITY BOOGIED THE NIGHT AWAY AT BRUISER BASH!

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

Reunion WEEKEND 2022

CL ASS OF 1972 72

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNAE VIEW ALL THE MOMENTS FROM REUNION WEEKEND

For lots of images from the weekend, please visit the Reunion Weekend album on our SmugMug page, where you can download photos for free or order prints for a small fee. HAZEL HUTCHESON BELL ’77 GLORIA MURRAY SMITH ’72

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME RECIPIENTS

THE BOND GPS ALUMNAE SHARE with one another and the

mutual love they have for GPS were evident as former students from across the decades gathered to reconnect and share memories during Reunion Weekend 2022. The festivities began Friday morning, April 8, with campus tours led by our lovely student Admissions Ambassadors. Later that morning, GPS Director of Athletics, Jay Watts, inducted five special women into the GPS Athletic Hall of Fame: Simone Busby ’12, Chadarryl Silguero-Clay ’12, Tory Kemp Howard ’12, Lindsey Martin VonCannon ’07, and Coach Susan Crownover. At the Alumnae Awards Luncheon, Head of School Megan Cover shared her vision for GPS along with all she's already accomplished in her first school year. Representing the current senior class, Mary Catherine Clelland spoke about a day in the life of a GPS girl. We were privileged to honor our Distinguished Alumna, Gloria Murray Smith ’72, and Hazel Hutcheson Bell ’77, the recipient of the Lupton Award of Excellence. On Friday evening, we gathered at Founders House for The Alumnae Cocktail Party, where alumnae reunited for fun and fellowship. On Saturday morning, alumnae, their children, and grandchildren bundled up to enjoy an adorable egg hunt. That evening, the classes ending in 2 and 7 held their own class parties for more togetherness and celebration. After years of not being able to enjoy hosting our reunion classes on campus, it was so great to see everyone in person!

Mark your calendars!

Reunion

WEEKEND ALUMNAE EGG HUNT

Moving to Fall 2023 G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

s e l i M e h t s s Acro WITH MEGAN

COMING FALL 2022!

MEMBERS OF THE DEVELOPMENT TEA M hit the

road (and the friendly skies) this year, traveling to 12 cities to introduce Head of School Megan D. Cover to GPS alumnae in their current communities.

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I truly enjoyed spending time with our alumnae and was very impressed by hearing their stories,” Cover said. “Our alumnae are the school's greatest testament to the GPS experience. The values they carry from their time at GPS keep alive our legacy of not only educating girls, but also offering a space where students are able to authentically be themselves, are empowered to use their voices, and are encouraged to explore new areas of interest and pursue their passions.

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This fall, Megan and the Development team travel to Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle!

D AL L AS COMING FALL 2022!

COMING FALL 2022!

FO R T W O R TH

LET'S STAY IN TOUCH!

Make sure the alumnae office has your current information so you will receive invitations if you live in the area we are headed to next! H O U ST O N

G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L G P S .E D U

NEW YOR K CIT Y CHATT ANOO GA

W A S H IN

K N O X V IL LE

GTON, D .C .

COMING FALL 2022!

N A S H V IL

COMING FALL 2022!

RAL EIG H

AT L AN TA

C H A R LE ST O

A U BU R N B IR M IN G H

G P S .E D U G I R L S P R E P A R A T O R Y S C H O O L

GIRLS P R E PA R AT O RY SCHOOL 205 Island Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37405

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Chattanooga, TN Permit No. 110

In an effort to adopt mindful printing practices, GPS mails one magazine per household. If you would like to receive additional copies, please contact Blueprint@GPS.edu.

Why a Girls’ School?

From building curriculum to engaging with students, GPS teachers consider the unique aspects of how girls learn to ensure students are set up for success in the classroom, through graduation, and beyond.

See for yourself why an all-girls learning environment makes such a difference during her formative years.

Inquire about admission at GPS.edu/Inquire. Girls Preparatory School is an independent day school for girls grades 6-12 in Chattanooga, TN

Blueprint Magazine | Summer 2022

Articles inside

Leading the Charge

A Day in the Life of Today's GPS girl

Class Notes

Introducing Our Newest Heads, Deans, & Directors

Leaving a Legacy

Learning Through Experience

Kaleidoscope

Commencement

Fine & Performing Arts

Around GPS

May Day

A Message from Our Head of School

Here Come the Bruisers

Athletics

Bruiser Beat