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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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The Many Faces of Giving
Stories of Generosity
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A Sweet Start
Sixth-graders share life so far at GPS
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Head of School Megan D. Cover on Her First-Year Goals
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A Strong Foundation
Supporting Our Students Academically, Socially, and Emotionally
BRUISER
Beat
GO BIG BLUE!
GOBBLE GOBBLE!
We were thrilled to be the first stop on the Chattanooga Area Food Bank’s Annual Turkey Train! With the help of Partnerships in the Community (PIC), a total of $893 and 665 lbs. of turkey were donated to provide 3,283 meals for families this Thanksgiving!
FIRST DAY DUT Y
On July 1, alumnae, faculty, staff, parents, and members of the greater Chattanooga community wished Head of School Megan D. Cover a warm welcome as she began her tenure at GPS with a focus on community and connection. GPS | MCCALLIE ROWING CENTER DEDICATION
With years-long anticipation, a crowd of Girls Preparatory School and McCallie alumni rowers, current and former coaches, current rowers, school officials, parents, and friends and supporters of both schools’ programs gathered to officially open the world-class rowing center to the community.
CAT-RAT PARADE
The Cat-Rat Parade was back and better than ever! With costumes and skits based on the year's theme, "States," the audience was treated to a cross-country road trip without having to leave the comfort of Frierson Theatre.
Rivalry Week was a huge success, kicking off with the GPS vs. Baylor soccer game, a Student Council dodgeball tournament, and car painting, followed by Bruiser House Team activities, service projects, and—of course—a friendly (and competitive!) game of battleball with students reigning supreme against a strong faculty and staff team that gave it their all. A trip to McCallie for a pep rally in preparation for the annual McCallie/Baylor football game capped the week’s activities.
#GoneViral
We’re on TikTok! And we went viral! Our video about the GPS uniform has been seen more than 1 million times between TikTok and Instagram and received over 50,000 likes. Follow us @gpsbruisers to see new content regularly!
SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED
While the national percentage rests just above 7 percent, at GPS, on average, 20 percent of our student-athletes continue their sport in college. In November, seniors Ansley Blevins and Claire Nicola signed letters of intent to continue their sports at MTSU and Webster University, respectively.
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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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
ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM Head of School Megan D. Cover Associate Head of School and Head of Middle School Lynne Macziewski
Table of Contents 2 | Bruiser Beat
Head of Upper School Jenise Gordon
5 |A Message from Our Head of School
Chief Advancement Officer Ali Gant
6 | This One's for the Girls
Megan Cover installed as the 10th Head of Girls Preparatory School
Chief Financial Officer Mark Vosskamp Director of Athletics Jay Watts
8 | Opening Day
Consultant to the Head of School on Strategic Initiatives Bilda Acuña Small
12 | A Sweet Start Sixth-graders share life so far at GPS
14 | A chieving Success in a New Chapter
Director of Admission and Enrollment Managment Alice Smith Harris ’03
Freshman Seminar at GPS
18 | M eet Magda
Director of Development Lisa Reynolds Shanahan ’83 Director of Communications and Marketing Pamela Hammonds
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20 | R aising the Bar
Supporting our students academically, socially, and emotionally
Opening Day
EDITORIAL STAFF
24 | Class Notes
Co-Editors Lucy Morris Blancett ’09 Pamela Hammonds
26 | Weddings
Designer Caitlin Riddle Contributing Writer Rachael Land ’12 Contributing Photographer Emily Lester
Blueprint is published by Girls Preparatory School P.O. Box 4736 Chattanooga, TN 37405 423.634.7600 | GPS.edu Printed by Creative Business Forms
27 | Babies
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Achieving Success in the Next Chapter How GPS helps freshmen feel seen, heard, and understood during their transition from Middle to Upper School.
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Meet Magda Magdalena "Magda" Sass, our Polish ASSIST student, details her first few months in America and at GPS.
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.
28 | I n Memoriam 30 | T he Many Faces of Giving GPS Donor Profiles
BRING BLUEPRINT TO LIFE
The digital version at GPS.edu/GPSMagazine provides additional content through links to our website, videos, and photos. On the Cover: Megan Cover hosts parents at Founders House.
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Megan with McCallie Head of School, Lee Burns, during the Rivalry Week bonfire. ard of Trustees, Clay Chairman of the Bo by d ne joi is n ga Me School, Kirk Walker, GPS Interim Head of ing center. Watson, and 2020-21 row w ceremony of the ne at the ribbon-cutting
Megan helps ignite the an nual bonfire McCallie le aders. Go B with ig Blue!
Hosting local alumnae
at Founders House dre
Alumnae Tour
Megan's Institutional Goals
w quite a crowd.
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NASHVILLE
KNOX VILLE 2
CHAT TANOOGA
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ATL ANTA
Celebration of Community and Connection Curricular/Program Design and Opportunity Our Campus Reimagined
Visit GPS.edu/Goals to read through Megan's goals to bette r understand her plans for our incred ible school.
Ali Gant, Chief Advancement Officer, introduces Megan to local alumnae. 4
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL
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ife is an adventure, full of twists, turns, expected, and unexpected. While we are never certain about what lies ahead, we choose paths that lead us to grow, develop, and thrive. For me, this new journey officially started on July 1, 2021, an unforgettable day when I became the 10th Head of School of GPS. Since that day, there has been momentum—both on and off campus—of optimism, pride, hope, and excitement for our great school. I attribute this movement to the people who are a part of GPS and believe in the power of our mission: to inspire girls to live lives of purpose and integrity. My family and I have benefitted from this commitment to not only lift up our girls, but also each member of our extended community. We have been received with kindness, warmth, and care, which has underscored our decision to join the GPS family. Throughout my lifetime, as a student or educator, my “home” has been consistently within the community where I have studied or worked, therefore community fuels my passion for and commitment to education. GPS is no exception to this, and my family and I are blessed and fortunate to be a part of the Bruiser Nation. The important role relationships play in building community—and in the development of the whole girl—directly aligns with my first institutional goal for this school year: Celebration of Community and Connection. With a green light to welcome people on campus once again, we’ve hosted parents for Back to School picnic, Daughters and Donuts and Breakfast with Your Girl, and many arts and athletic events. At Founders House we’ve welcomed prospective families, Bruiser Booster Club members, alumnae, faculty and staff, current parents and students, and Parent Council’s book club. Personally, I’ve met on campus with our current and former Trustees, faculty and staff, alumnae, every senior and many underclasswomen, former and retired
teachers, folks from McCallie, and GPS parents— former, current, and future. I’ve also had the pleasure of eating lunch with students who are, like me, new to GPS this year. Our feeder schools also welcomed me warmly on my visits, and I ‘hit the road’ with some of my colleagues to visit with alumnae across Tennessee and Atlanta with more trips planned for 2022. Already I’ve experienced Rivalry Week and helped light the McCallie bonfire. I cheered from the bridges for Head of the Hooch and from the sidelines at dozens of athletic events. I sat riveted in my seat at my first Terpsichord concert, the Middle School musical Frozen JR., the Upper School play Pride and Prejudice, May Queen and Court nominations, and more. I’ve listened to half of the Class of 2022 present their Chapel Talks and remain impressed by their insight, foresight, and senses of humor! There is so much to learn and discover here. While I am completely enamored with the rich culture that’s steeped in tradition and academic, artistic, and athletic excellence, I am also mindful of the work before me as I lead this school into a robust future. The link on the previous page will allow you to read more about my goals, which include Curricular/Program Design and Opportunity and Our Campus Reimagined. These goals serve as our compass as we strive to best serve girls in mind, body, and spirit in a dynamic and ever-changing world. Please take a moment to read through these to better understand my plans for our incredible school. I hope that you’ll continue (or perhaps renew) your support for our school with your time, talents and/ or treasure. On pages 30-34, you can read about some special people who give to our school in a myriad ways. They represent a larger community of people who truly love GPS and lift up those who work hard every day to impact the lives of our students and the adults on campus who support them. If you’d like to connect with me, I welcome your thoughts as part of our growing Here’s to the GIRLS! community and would love for you to be part of my GPS journey.
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INSTALLATION
By Lucy Morris Blancett '09
This One’s for the Girls MEGAN D. COVER INSTALLED AS THE 10TH HEAD OF GIRLS PREPARATORY SCHOOL CA MPUS WAS ABUZZ with excitement the morning of August 27, as students, faculty, staff, and honored guests gathered in the Main Gym to join the GPS community in celebrating the installation of Megan D. Cover, our 10th Head of School.
The installation ceremony began with words from Chairman of the Board Clay Watson, who spoke on his experience cochairing the Head of School Search Committee alongside board member Dr. Mary Tanner. “Through this experience, I got to know Megan as a candidate for the leader of our school and was able to witness on many occasions, her passion for independent school education as well as her desire to return to an all-girls environment,” Watson said. “With fresh ideas, new approaches to educating girls, and a willingness to build a positive, inclusive culture, Megan will lead this institution to levels of success we have yet to see.”
SPECIAL SPEAKERS
The ceremony progressed with a series of poignant speakers that included students Alex Brumley ’26 and Frances Crowe ’22, followed by Michelle Shepherd and Andrea Glowatz, leaders at Cover’s former institution, Tower Hill School. “Schools like GPS are a gift, and they must be treasured,” Shepherd said. “I can tell you that it’s not such an easy thing to preserve tradition and spirit while continuing to advance and adapt. It takes the right kind of leader to do that, and I’m confident that Megan Cover is that leader.” Glowatz said, “Mrs. Cover embraces all the work she does in schools thoroughly, incisively, and enthusiastically. I want to let you know how rare it is to meet an educator who is so dedicated to the entire community.”
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INSTALLATION
HEAD OF SCHOOL ADDRESS
Cover spoke next, offering thanks to the original three founders of GPS before speaking about the essence of the school. “It is not only present in our environment but lies innately in each girl who attends. It is her heart and soul. It is her humility, sincerity, honesty, and grace. It is her drive, resilience, growth, and achievement. It is her spirit, her intellect, and her kindness. It is her strength, her purpose, and her voice.” She closed by referencing the theme of the year, Building Bridges. “This year, we will bridge our past with our present as we partner to provide a fulfilling experience for our girls in a place they can always call home.”
THE COVER CHILDREN OFFER CONGRATUL ATIONS
Cover’s three children spoke next, first Margaret, followed by her twin sister, Sophie, and then their older sister, Kathryn. Margaret said, “I am so proud to see how my mom’s love for teaching and open heart have led her to GPS, where she can now create an environment where every girl can feel like she has someone there for them in their corner.” Sophie likened her mother’s career trajectory to the classic Hannah Montana song, “The Climb.” She said, “Throughout your ascent up the mountain, you have gone through many experiences that have helped you learn and grow, creating the strong and intelligent woman you are today.” Kathryn spoke about Cover’s love of Amazon Prime’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. “Moxy is the best word I can use to describe my mother. While one may look at talent through academic achievements and leadership positions, the talent that stands out most to me about my mother is her grit,” she said. “She always stands tall and stays true to her character.”
A SPECIAL PRESENTATION
To cement Cover’s status as the newly installed Head of School, a representative from each grade was selected to present Cover with a different flower, each symbolizing a different quality she possesses. Representatives included Olivia Burns ’22, Anabel Wilson ’23, Holly Beale ’24, Eliana Tabibiazar ’25, Ella Wiley ’26, Eva Armstrong ’27, and Londyn Busby ’28.
Snapdragon Roses
GRACE AND STRENGTH
Lisianthus ADMIRATION
LOVE
Clematis
MENTAL PROWESS
White Larkspur HAPPINESS AND JOY
Calla Lily OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
Jasmine
TED’S TAKE
“I candidly didn’t know what to expect from the installation ceremony, but my outlook began taking shape on Opening Day when I witnessed just how much GPS LOVES to celebrate a new beginning. I was moved by the students, staff, faculty, and community involvement to commemorate and celebrate the beginning of Megan’s leadership at GPS. I was amazed by the outpouring of support and the volume of flowers and other gifts delivered to Founders House. Thanks to everyone involved in making it a spectacular and memorable day. Finally, I could not have been more proud of my wife and daughters as they fit right into the meaningful yet festive occasion, and I look forward to seeing their growth in the years to come.”
FAITHFULNESS AND GOOD LUCK
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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Opening DAY NEW STUDENTS AND TEACHERS SPEAK ON THEIR FIRST-DAY EXPERIENCES
AMELIA TALLEY ’25
“Opening Day was the perfect first impression of GPS: Everything is a party! It was so fun, and I loved seeing all of the traditions that I will get to watch—and eventually be a part of—for the rest of my time at GPS! I really liked how new students were included in the walk across the lawn, even though we didn't come here for Middle School. Opening Day really showed me the GPS sisterhood that everyone talks about.”
DIANE YU ART TEACHER
“Opening Day was such a thrilling, colorful, and spirited experience! As a new teacher to GPS, I was excited to see how the school came together as a whole. From the students being greeted by balloons and music to announcing the new school year theme to students dressed in class colors, the day encompassed the joy within GPS. One of my favorite parts of the day was getting to take a selfie with the new teachers and staff in front of a ‘Honk if You Love a Bruiser’ sign. I am proud to be a part of the GPS community!”
“I knew I wanted to attend GPS after touring—it felt magical. So being here on Opening Day, I felt a sense of pride to be a part of this. I had met some of my classmates before school started, so it was nice to have them show me around and answer questions. Probably my favorite part of the day was meeting all of my teachers because I didn’t know what to expect, and they were all so cool and nice.” ZORA HAMMOND ’27
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OPENING DAY
“The first day of school is always filled with excitement! It’s been that way since I was a GPS girl. However, this year had something new—perhaps excitement to be back after the summer. Maybe even hope that this year, things will start to go back to normal. But I felt my dream of coming back to work at GPS come true on Opening Day! Girls walked into school laughing and hugging friends. Teachers asked how the girls’ summers had been and expressed excitement to have them back in class. It was wonderful.” SARAH WHITNEY ANDERSON ’12 DIRECTOR OF CAMPS & CLINICS & ADMISSION COUNSELOR
“Opening Day was exciting—there was a lot to process! Being new, I was a little bit nervous, but when I got here, there was music blasting and people talking and hugging each other. It was similar to what I expected based on what I’d heard about GPS. Everyone was nice and welcoming, and I had a Girl Guide to help me through the day. It was interesting to hear about things and then see them firsthand. I loved watching the sixth-graders come in, then the freshmen walk across the lawn—it was a celebratory day. The next thing I’m looking forward to is Winterim!” JA’NIAH COOPER ’23
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OPENING DAY
TAKIERAH BATTS ’24
“I attended the same elementary, middle, and high school until now, so this was my first time transferring schools. Opening Day was a lot different—it was loud but a lot of fun. There was a lot of dancing, a lot of music. The teachers and students are different here—they’re very sweet, and my grade is very close knit and inclusive. I’ll say I got lost at least twice on the first day, but I knew I could ask anyone at the school where my classroom was, and they would help me.”
Hold a phone or tablet camera over this QR code to experience all the excitement surrounding the first day of classes at GPS!
“Opening Day was really fun and welcoming because when we first walked in, all of the seniors were standing up and cheering for us. I figured we’d just be going to classes, but we had this big, cool event. It was fun because you got to meet a lot of people and see everyone in your class. I saw some older girls I knew, and they all said they wished I had a great day and were super nice. I think next year will be cool because now we know what to expect, and we’ll get to cheer on the new sixth-graders!” WEEZIE RESPESS ’28
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A Sweet START SIXTH-GRADERS SHARE LIFE SO FAR AT GPS
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From their first steps onto campus on Opening Day to now—halfway through their first year at GPS—our sixth-graders have grown tremendously. They have all embraced the sisterhood with fervor, stepped out of their comfort zones, and approached each new challenge with openness and confidence. We asked four girls who have really jumped in with both feet how year one at GPS has been so far.
LONDYN BUSBY MY FAVORITE PART OF GPS IS PROBABLY THE ENVIRONMENT AND NOT HAVING TO WORRY ABOUT BOYS IN CL ASS. IT’S NICE TO JUST HAVE A GROUP OF GIRLS TO HANG OUT WITH THAT YOU KNOW YOU CAN TRUST. IT IS ALSO NICE TO KNOW THAT YOUR TEACHERS CAN TRUST YOU, AND YOU DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT THEM THINKING THAT YOU’RE NOT DOING WHAT YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO.
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During one of the first weeks of school, I got to deliver one of the flowers to Mrs. Cover at her installation. I was a little bit nervous, because I had to stand up and talk in front of people I had never even talked to before, but it was cool to represent my class. I feel like leadership is just something that kind of comes naturally to me. I really like to help people and make sure they know what they’re doing. I think the qualities that make a good leader are kindness and caring for others.
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GRACIE WILBOURN I thought GPS was going to be this strict school that had a lot of rules you had to follow and get in trouble if you didn’t. But when I came here, it was like a whole new world. Everyone is so nice! The teachers are loving, kind, and sweet, and the homework is an acceptable amount that you can get finished. The girls are really nice, too. I’m a type 1 diabetic, and I thought they would all judge me, but it’s been really easy to make friends. I PL AYED SOF TBALL THIS YEAR, AND MY FAVORITE PART WAS PROBABLY JUST HANGING OUT WITH FRIENDS AND SPENDING QUALIT Y TIME WITH THEM . I WANT TO TRY VOLLEYBALL NEXT YEAR. AT THIS SCHOOL , YOU HAVE SO M ANY OPPORTUNITIES. I THINK I EVEN WANT TO BE A TEACHER AT GPS WHEN I GROW UP.
GRACIE AND HER TEA M
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A SWEET START
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DAISY HAMMOND
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I PICKED GPS BECAUSE MY PARENTS AND I REALLY LIKED HOW UPBEAT AND CHEERFUL IT WAS WHEN WE VISITED, AND I WOULD SAY IT’S BEEN EVEN BET TER THAN EXPECTED SO FAR. THAT’S PROBABLY BECAUSE I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE A LOT HARDER TO FIND FRIENDS SINCE I CA ME FROM A SCHOOL WHERE I DIDN’T KNOW ANYONE . IT’S ACTUALLY BEEN REALLY EASY TO FIND FRIENDS.
A lot of them I met doing theater. I played young Anna in Frozen JR. I thought it was really fun, and it wasn’t stressful at all. I felt like it was really worth doing. My favorite parts of it were the performances and the people. We were all really close. Our final performance was great, but we were all so sad it was over. I want to act in future productions at GPS.
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ELLE BOAL What I’ve learned so far is definitely the importance of supporting each other. Even if you don’t know someone, if she's crying because she twisted her ankle, everyone is there to make her feel better. School-wise, I like the pace. The teachers make sure everyone is keeping up, but it’s nice to not be spending five days on one topic. I’ve learned a lot, and it’s really interactive. I really like science. We are studying ponds, and we created our own ponds and put organisms in them. Today we did water quality testing. It makes me feel grown up. THE YEAR HAS BEEN REALLY FUN SO FAR. I LOVE CAT-RAT BECAUSE IT’S NOT LIKE THE SENIOR THINKS OF YOU AS SOME LIT TLE KID THEY HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF. THEY ’RE FRIENDS WITH YOU. AND I LOVE HOW WE HAVE DANCE PARTIES ON THE L AWN. MY MOM IS ALWAYS ASKING , ‘WHAT SONG WERE YOU DANCING TO TODAY?’
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By Lucy Morris Blancett '09
Achieving Success in a New Chapter FRESHMAN SEMINAR AT GPS It is important that every student at GPS receives the support she needs to thrive. As experts in the education of girls, we recognize that the social-emotional well-being of a girl as she enters Upper School is an integral part of her experience. Finding classes, getting to know new classmates, interacting with new teachers, and simply figuring out what is expected can be challenging. To ensure a positive start to her new GPS chapter, welldesigned yearlong Freshman Seminar programming equips each student with the proper tools to set her on the path to success from day one. This work helps girls in their transition to the Upper School academically, socially, and emotionally. Areas of focus include time management, navigating relationships and boundary setting, understanding Upper School policies, and getting connected to GPS Upper School life.
TO ENSURE SUCCESS AS A FRESHMAN, EACH GIRL RECEIVES SPECIFIC HELP ON THESE TOPICS: SELF-CARE + MINDFULNESS
REFLECTION + GOAL SETTING
NAVIGATING REL ATIONSHIPS FRIENDSHIP
CAIDEN WILLIAMS ’25
BELONGING
NEW STUDENT
TECHNOLOGY HOW STRESS
“I chose to attend GPS because I knew it would give me a better education than other schools and would allow me to explore different activities that were only offered here. Freshman Seminar has helped me learn more about my future outside of GPS, like what will happen in college. It has also helped me understand who is in charge of running things like dances, and who I should talk to if I have questions. My favorite thing about GPS has been the way the school prioritizes the girl's well-being. I love how GPS is a place where you are cared for and loved, and everyone can find a place where they belong.”
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TRAINING
AFFECTS THE BODY
HOW TO STAY SELF-DEFENSE
CALM UNDER PRESSURE
FRESHMAN SEMINAR
New Student Onboarding While Upper School is a new chapter for all students, girls who are new to GPS have more ground to cover when it comes to getting to know peers and teachers, training on new technologies, making their way around campus, and enmeshing themselves in the community. For that reason, Dean of the Freshman Class, Kate Kerekes, has helped design a comprehensive new student onboarding program designed to make them feel comfortable the moment they step on campus. Program components include:
GIRL GUIDES
MONTHLY MEETINGS
Each new student is paired with a Girl Guide before school starts. Her guide will help her get acclimated to the traditions and culture of GPS; help her find classes; introduce her to faculty, staff, and other students; and invite her to sit at the same lunch table for the first weeks of school. The pair meets regularly and is in the same advisory and at least three overlapping classes.
Kate Kerekes meets with new students monthly, alongside their Girl Guides, to check on their progress and follow up on any questions or concerns.
CLASS REPRESENTATIVES New students are introduced to their Class Leadership Council, Honor Council, Student Council, and Partnerships in the Community representatives, who are encouraged to check in frequently, plug them into the class GroupMe, and help them get involved.
ADVISORY Each new student is assigned the same advisory as her Girl Guide. Her advisor will get to know her throughout the year during their once-a-week meetings and will champion her throughout her journey as a new student.
WITH CLASS DEANS
YEARLY EVENTS The year kicks off with a Freshman Retreat, where new students are introduced and begin forming connections through icebreaker activities. The class also bonds during a yearly freshmen-only Friendsgiving gathering in the fall and a field day in the spring.
THE LEARNING CENTER For the first month of school, at least once per week, new students spend a study hall in the Learning Center to better understand the resources available to them and to create an academic plan that will help them be successful.
“Ninth grade is such a pivotal time in a girl’s life, with both the new academic transitions and a variety of social opportunities. It is our goal to provide programming that is based on clinical and anecdotal research that takes into consideration our current students and what is happening in their lives. It’s important they are able to navigate things with a caring adult by their side. Freshman Seminar evolves each year to meet the needs of each class and help ease the transition from the safety they feel in eighth grade to the unfamiliar territory of Upper School.”
KATE KEREKES DEAN OF THE FRESHMAN CL ASS
FRESHMAN SEMINAR
Designed for Her KATE KEREKES, DEAN OF THE FRESHMAN CL ASS, LEADS THE GIRLS THROUGH A ROBUST PROGRAM THAT FEATURES:
GROUP DISCUSSIONS Advisors lead discussions on topics important to adolescent life including everything from summer recaps to what the qualities of a good friend are and why we don’t always see ourselves as others do. Girls are encouraged to think through everything from a new perspective.
BELONGING WORK
MONTHLY JOURNALING
Ninth-graders meet monthly with DEI Student Support and Community Engagement Coordinator Lauren Swanson to participate in belonging discussions and exercises surrounding the concepts of identity, diversity, justice, and action standards.
Students are asked to answer prompts in their journals that encourage them to set goals for themselves for the year, reflect on ninth grade as it progresses, and identify their strengths.
REGULAR SURVEYS
VIDEOS
Students take surveys regularly throughout the year to assess their journeys. They answer questions about workload, friendship, confidence, and more. Should anyone report struggles of any sort, her dean, advisor, and teachers will work together to identify an action plan.
Educational videos curated by the TED team are shown and discussed regularly throughout the year and cover a variety of topics that include stress, sleep routines, emotions, and self-perception.
AT GPS, WE KNOW GIRLS THRIVE WHEN PL ACED IN AN ENVIRONMENT DESIGNED FOR THEM TO SUCCEED. FRESHMAN SEMINAR TEACHES STUDENTS THAT THEY CAN ASK QUESTIONS, MAKE MISTAKES, LEARN, AND GROW AS INDIVIDUALS, SURROUNDED BY FACULT Y AND STAFF WHO CARE FOR THEM HOLISTICALLY IN ALL AREAS OF THEIR LIVES.
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Meet Magda
MAGDALENA “MAGDA” SASS IS A 15-YEAR-OLD POLISH STUDENT SPENDING THE YEAR AT GPS THROUGH THE ASSIST PROGRAM.
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO PURSUE THE OPPORTUNIT Y TO SPEND A YEAR IN THE U.S.?
To study in an American high school always seemed like an unrealistic dream for me. It seemed too far away. But during quarantine I was watching Netflix and thought, ‘Oh my gosh, I really want to go to America!’ So I started looking for opportunities and programs and found ASSIST. The deadline for the application was in two weeks, so I didn’t have much time, but I was able to get it done. All my teachers supported me and so did my parents. WERE YOU NERVOUS TO COME TO AN ALLGIRLS’ SCHOOL?
Oh yes, I was very nervous. I get along with boys, so I was stressed thinking I wouldn’t make any friends, or they wouldn’t like me, or they would be judgemental, but it was the total opposite! They’re so understanding and nice! No one judges you here. I was also worried that I would only be spending time with girls here, but there are so many socials and dances where we can meet and hang out with boys. So everything has gone perfectly. I would go to an all-girls school in Poland if I could!
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WHAT’S BEEN YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT GPS SO FAR?
Honestly, probably the uniforms are one of the best things at GPS. First, they’re very pretty, and there’s also a lot of history behind them. Girls can wear them in different ways and express themselves. So you can see that we’re all equal but special in our own different ways. I love how you can mix it with your own style. Beyond that, people are just very open and friendly, and the teacher and student relationship is much different. They’re willing to help, and you can talk about your life, not just school life. So that was a very surprising thing for me. They ask how your day was, how you are feeling. It’s been great to get to know them and be close with them. HAVE YOU ENJOYED YOUR TIME WITH YOUR HOST FAMILY?
Yes, definitely! I’m staying with Emmaline Hill first semester. She’s the best host sister ever! She’s very friendly, helps me a lot, and she introduced me to her friends and has helped me get to know people. She also translates all the slang words for me. My host mom is a sweetheart. I love her, too. She makes breakfast and really cares about me. I also love my host dad and my host brothers. I don’t have brothers at home, so that has been new to me. Now I wish I had a brother, too! Second semester, I'll be staying with Sophie McGee, and I’m excited to get to know her family.
MEET MAGDA
MAGDA’S FAVORITE AMERICAN FOODS SO FAR:
» Chicken nuggets and fries » Mac and cheese » Three Musketeers
WHAT WAS THE FIRST THING YOU WANTED TO DO WHEN YOU GOT TO AMERICA?
Probably try new food. I know that a lot of American fast foods are so popular, so I wanted to try those. Chick-fil-A is my favorite restaurant so far. Besides that, I wanted to visit some cool cities. We went to Phoenix, Arizona, for fall break to visit Emmaline’s uncle. I saw scorpions! The weather was so hot. It was a different American experience. I bought a lot of postcards to send to family and friends. WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT POL AND OR POLISH PEOPLE?
Polish people are very hardworking, and they’re very open and helpful. They have the best food on this planet! I really miss my Polish food. We have a lot of soups and meat and potatoes dishes. It’s very different. Here there’s a lot more fast food—meals are like snacks combined together. Also, I wish people knew our history and folk culture. The beauty of that is indescribable. Everyone has to visit the mountains because it’s much different.
POLISH GOŁ ĄBKI INGREDIENTS
1 head cabbage, cored 2 tablespoons butter 1 large onion, chopped ½ pound ground pork 1 ½ cups cooked rice
1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, plus more to taste
DIRECTIONS
» Fill a large pot with water, bring to a boil, and salt it. » Place the whole head of cabbage in the boiling water. Cover and cook for 3 minutes or until softened enough to pull off individual leaves. » When leaves are cool enough to handle, cut away the thick center stem from each leaf. Be careful not to cut all the way through. » After retrieving 18 leaves, chop the remaining cabbage and place it in the bottom of a casserole dish with a lid or a Dutch oven. » Heat up a large skillet, melt the butter, and add the chopped onion. Cook until tender and remove from the heat to let cool. » Mix the cooled onion with the pork, cooked rice, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Don't overmix or the meat will become tough. » Flatten a cabbage leaf on a cutting board or work surface and place about 1/2 cup of the meat filling. » Flip the right side of the leaf to the middle, then flip the left side; flip the bottom of the leaf to create an envelope shape; repeat with all leaves. » Heat the oven to 350°F. » Place the cabbage rolls, seam down, on top of the chopped cabbage in the casserole dish or Dutch oven. Season each layer with salt and pepper. » Bake for 1 hour or until cabbage is tender and meat is cooked. » Serve with a drizzle of sour cream, or alternatively, mix the pan juices with the sour cream and ladle it over the cabbage rolls.
Enjoy!
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A Strong
Foundation
By Lucy Morris Blancett ’09
SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS ACADEMICALLY, SOCIALLY, AND EMOTIONALLY
ADOLESCENCE CAN BE TOUGH . From growing two inches in a year to shifting friend groups, earning more responsibility, exploring new classes, and taking on new challenges, being a teen can come with a lot to manage. All the while, their brains are still developing.
At GPS, we want our girls to feel supported in every aspect of their maturation, therefore our faculty and staff invest time and talents to create new curricula, programs, and opportunities that allow students to explore who they are in and beyond the classroom.
LEARNING SPECIALISTS SUPPORT GPS GIRLS BY ...
» Working to develop self-sufficiency, selfadvocacy, and agency » Developing advisory and course curriculum around executive functioning skills and strategies
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» Offering after-school homework help from 3:30-4:45 p.m., Monday through Thursday » Providing extra teaching support during academic classes
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
» Offering Help Class support to all students » Facilitating guided study halls for students needing extra support
» Serving as a liaison between teachers, students, parents, tutors, and administration » Being available throughout the school day
RAISING THE BAR
ACADEMIC SUPPORT EACH GPS GIRL RECEIVES an amazing education, but all students have unique learning styles. Here, we want to meet them where they are and support them in their transition.
The GPS Learning Center offers a girlcentered, engaging, and supportive learning environment that reinforces skills with small-group and individual instruction designed for the learning styles of each student. Learning Specialists facilitate communication between students, teachers, parents, and advisors to help each girl realize her highest academic potential. This year, with Head of School Megan Cover's institutional goals in mind, the Learning Center underwent numerous changes to enhance academic support for all types of learners—both those with a diagnosed learning difference as well as those who seek out support on their own or are recommended by a teacher. These enhancements included a larger, more inviting space; separate areas for Upper and Middle School students; a variety of seating options ranging from private cubicles to beanbags and couches; additional staffing; expanded quiet study/testing room; and collaborative work spaces.
“In the Learning Center, we emphasize the idea that, ‘You’re a girl, not a grade,’” says Learning Specialist Renee Romero. “The best part of our job is watching students grow. When they have success, which does not necessarily mean a perfect score on a test, it’s fun to see them recognize their progress.” In addition to the physical changes that the Learning Center has undergone, a part-time interventionist has also been added. With increased staffing, the Learning Specialists can more easily push into classes and support girls in their classrooms alongside their teachers. The Learning Center has also started offering in-house evaluations for current GPS families. According to Katie Outlaw, licensed school psychologist and Middle School Dean of Students, who directs the Learning Center, “The addition of offering educational evaluations for our families has been huge this year. It’s something I’ve wanted to do since starting at GPS five years ago. We have the capacity and staff now to complete all intellectual, academic, behavioral, and observational evaluations at school at no cost to our families. This gives us an accurate picture of a girl’s strengths and challenges and enables us to better identify the support and accommodations she needs to be successful at school.”
UNDERSTANDING LEARNING PROFILES
Defined as a complete picture of a student’s learning preferences, strengths, and challenges, a learning profile helps GPS Learning Specialists build an educational plan around a student who has been diagnosed with learning differences. Whether she needs help prioritizing projects, scheduling her day, or requires additional testing time, learning plans at GPS focus on student strengths as they work toward their own chosen goals.
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RAISING THE BAR
SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANOTHER IMPORTANT ASPECT of educating the whole girl is ensuring her comfort in social situations and helping her understand how to manage her emotions. This year Casey Caldwell Santos ’08 and Heather Landreth, our Middle and Upper School Counselors, respectively, implemented a robust social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum that is taught at the grade level.
“Our goal is to focus on the topics of self-awareness, social awareness, self-management, relationships, and responsible decision making. Based on their needs, we scaffold these by grade level," Santos explains. Programming is taught once a month on a rotating schedule in Upper School, where one grade participates each week. Landreth says the increased learning opportunities this year have been a welcome addition that allows for more creative freedom, which the girls have found refreshing. “We have the opportunity to create engaging scenarios and lessons that are experiential and fun, rather than being clinical,” she says. Students are polled by grade level about the five major topics to help Santos and Landreth determine the elements for which the girls need the most support. For example, when preparing a plan for a lesson on relationships, survey results and conversations with senior class leaders informed Landreth that there was
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“Using breakout groups, role play, games, and more, we looked at everything from what to do if you’re trying to study in your dorm room and your roommate is being loud to uninvited guests, differing sleep schedules, and more,” says Landreth. “We want to continue to find methods that interest them, rather than speaking at them with a presentation.” Santos and Landreth believe the prioritizing of SEL this school year has been beneficial for the girls, especially those who may not always feel comfortable with one-on-one counseling or who may have a hard time asking for help. "We aim to destigmatize mental health support, so this has been a great way for us to connect with students that we wouldn’t otherwise,” Santos says. Looking to the future, Santos and Landreth are excited to continue on this positive trajectory. “As with all programs, we aim to provide the best social-emotional support for girls. We're in an R&D phase—it’s ever-changing,” says Santos. Landreth adds, “We can adapt it to be whatever we want it to be, based on the evolution of research and the changing needs of our girls. We always want it to be relevant and authentic with girls' well-being remaining front and center.”
AD GR E
AD GR E
AD GR E
AD GR E
WEEK 1
SEL
Belonging
Adulting
Class Meeting
WEEK 2
Class Meeting
SEL
Belonging
Adulting
WEEK 3
Adulting
Class Meeting
SEL
Belonging
WEEK 4
Belonging
Adulting
Class Meeting
SEL
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growing concern for next year—going off to college—so she was able to build scenarios on roommate relationships, and they explored aggressive, avoidant, and assertive approaches.
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MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS COMPLETE THEIR SEL PROGRAMMING DURING ADVISORY MEETINGS. GIRLS ALSO PARTICIPATE WEEKLY IN SEL LESSONS IN 6TH GRADE SKILLS, 7TH GRADE HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT, AND 8TH GRADE CHANGES AND CHOICES.
RAISING THE BAR
BELONGING SUPPORT THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A SAFE SPACE , where you feel comfortable
and understood, cannot be overstated. In fact, self-confidence, rooted in feelings of security and belonging, is a cornerstone of social-emotional well-being. At GPS, we are focused on bringing a sense of belonging for every girl to campus. A large component of identifying these opportunities lies in educating our students, faculty, and staff on how to respect, listen, and engage with others and how to understand how their individual stories frame their view of the world. Last year, GPS alumna Lauren Lawrence Swanson ’09 returned to campus in a dual role focusing on student support. This year, she has expanded her reach, serving as the Belonging, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Student Support and Community Engagement Coordinator. While the requirements of her position are far-reaching, her greatest strength remains her ability to connect with students on an individual and authentic level. In her efforts to help students find a sense of belonging, she, with the help of her colleague and fellow SEED leader, Lindsey King, has created a new, age-appropriate curriculum designed to better help girls understand themselves and their peers. In monthly grade-level meetings, students work with Swanson on four tenets: identity, diversity, justice, and action standards. As with the SEL work, these sessions are designed to engage students and encourage participation. During a recent Upper School session, they participated in an activity that places players into various socioeconomic categories by pure chance. This helped students see how their position in life can tie into their actions and beliefs.
In a Middle School lesson, students discussed the meaning of ‘belonging’ and were taught that “you must belong to yourself first.” On their way out of the classroom, they had to name one thing they loved or appreciated about themselves.
#ADULTING
Swanson admits she finds this work challenging but fulfilling, saying the ultimate compliment she could receive would be if a student were to say the student BIPOC group and the belonging work made her experience at GPS better and made her want to come to school each day.
» Living on a budget
» Cooking
» Legal rights and responsibilities of adults
» Finding a place to live
Over the course of the next three years, new belonging curriculum will be developed by grade level, so that each year girls continue their education and gain insight and empathy into the best ways to see themselves and others.
In addition to the programming done around mental, emotional, and social health, Upper School students meet with their advisors monthly for real-world training. In their #adulting sessions, students learn skills they will need after they leave GPS. These include:
For students who want even more insight, GPS History Teacher Dr. Steve Harrison hosts an #adulting Winterim, with scheduled speakers, demonstrations, activities, and more. Lauren Lawrence Swanson ’09
Applying what we know about how girls learn, GPS acts with intentionality to build a strong foundation of academic, social, and emotional health that will provide benefits that extend far beyond adolescence. And once a girl has a strong foundation, she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to!
Students who are confident they belong … » engage more fully in learning » are more receptive to feedback » take advantage of learning opportunities and build lasting relationships » are empathetic individuals who advocate for themselves and others
#BRUISERSFORBELONGING
Girls also have an opportunity to participate in various forums that include: » Black, Indigenous, & People of Color (BIPOC) » Christian Forum » Gender & Sexuality Forum » Interfaith Forum
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Class Notes 1970s
1990s
1 K ATHERINE BET TS ’76
celebrated 25 years of service to GPS as a member of the Development Team. Betts knows nearly every student by name. She’s also a wonderful resource about the history of GPS.
1980s 2 LISA REYNOLDS SHANAHAN ’83
was recently appointed to Director of Development at GPS.
LEL A MOORE ’94 covered the 2020 Tokyo Olympics for Bleacher Report, with features on gymnastics, swimming, track, and more. 3 ASHLEY MOORE PALMER ’99
was appointed to the Cobb County State Court, Division II and also joined the GPS Board of Directors.
2000s 4 ALICE SMITH HARRIS ’03
was recently appointed to Director of Admission and Enrollment Management at GPS.
from Lincoln Memorial University in May 2020 with a master's degree. She is now working as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in long-term care facilities, providing therapy and managing patient psychiatric medications.
2010s 7 KELI SHIPLEY COOPER ’10
5 CAROLINE WALKER ’04
6 K AITLIN DEWHIRST DETERS
SUMMER BROCK ’11 started a new
’06 started her surgical practice as a
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MEGAN GIVENS KNORR '09 graduated
was ordained as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (USA). She is serving in a validated ministry as the Minister for Faith Formation at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Richmond, Virginia.
was honored as a 2021 Woman of Distinction of Greater Chattanooga based on her contributions to the community. 1
EMILY ROBERTS ’07 returned to Chattanooga and started a new position at Baker Donelson as a Staff Attorney focusing on healthcare defense litigation.
Bariatric and General Surgeon at Bon Secours-Southside Medical Center in Petersburg, Virginia.
position as Senior Director of Sales at Foria. ARIEL RESNICK ’11 started a new position as Associate Attorney at Grant Konvalinka & Harrison, P.C. in Chattanooga.
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THE BOOK AND COVER
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SARAH YOUNG JACKSON ’06, BL AES SCHMISSRAUTER GREEN ’03, and EMILY LILLEY ’03 (pictured
here with Kim Leffew, GPS Director of Alumnae, center) opened The Book & Cover, a local bookstore that supports a love of reading and community, in November in the heart of Riverview. Members of our Advancement Team were thrilled to be able to visit the shop on opening day! Learn more at TheBookAndCover.com.
CLASS NOTES
DR. CHADARRYL SILGUERO-CL AY ’12 completed her Independent Pharmacy
Ownership Residency with UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy and is now a full-time staff pharmacist at Central Pharmacy in Durham, North Carolina. M ARGARET EASTERLY ’12
started a new position as Copywriter at Abercrombie & Fitch Co. in Columbus, Ohio.
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TAYLOR BROCK ’12 was accepted to the University of Southern California’s Graduate School. She plans to obtain a double master’s in Urban Planning and Curatorial Practice in the Public Sphere.
YUSTHA YOGA
Sisters AYUSHI ’16 and ASTHA ’21 SINHA launched desi-inspired athleisure brand Yustha Yoga. The co-founders grew up doing yoga with their grandparents in India and playing dress up with their mother’s Banarasi saris. Fast forward to today: they are committed to bringing the fabrics and patterns that women in their family have worn for generations to the forefront with their South Asian designs. On the web at Yustha.Yoga.
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OLIVIA FINE ’12 started a new position as Kindergarten Assistant at the Bright School in Chattanooga. JOANNA HUDGINS ’12 started a new position as Hospitality and Education Manager at Bricoleur Vineyards in Windsor, California. LIZZIE SANFORD ’12 was accepted to St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine. M ARIKO THEL ’12 completed her pharmacy residency at the Memphis VA Medical Center. M AGGIE VENABLE INGLE ’12 started a new position as Senior Product Engineer at Tynt Technologies in Boulder, Colorado. CARLY CROWDER SCHENK ’13 moved
to Maine and started a job as an infectious disease pharmacist, specifically in the area of HIV and hepatitis.
PAY TON PIT TS '14 received the third place People's Choice Award for fundraising during the Kidney Foundation of the Greater Chattanooga Area’s annual “Dare to Dance” event.
HANNAH L AND ’14 started a new position as Catering Manager with American Dining Creations at Mount Mary University in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.
SHARE YOUR NEWS WITH US AT ALUMNEWS@GPS.EDU!
DR. K ATIE MORGAN ’14 started a new position as Physical Therapist at Church Health in Memphis, Tennessee. CL AIRE BADGLEY ’17 graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 2021 and is now pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration with a concentration in music business at Belmont University. She is working part-time as a graduate assistant at Belmont and as a product management intern at online media company Digiday, based in New York City. LILI ANNE MCCL ANAHAN ’17 accepted a new role with the National Headquarters of Chi Omega. In this position she will spend the year traveling across the country as a full-time National Leadership Consultant to support, recruit, and cheer on all 181 chapters of the organization.
M ARY GRACE COFFM AN ’18 returned to GPS to speak to the Class of 2022 about financial challenges that women face, how to overcome them, and the importance of starting these conversations early. 8 K AITLIN SONGER ’19
completed a dental internship in Mombasa, Kenya, assisting in dental and medical procedures at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital. Additionally, she visited an orphanage and provided them with toothbrushes and basic dental education. She is planning to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in biology from Kennesaw State and apply to dental school.
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1 HANNAH BADGLEY ’12
to Alan Dodd
2 BAILEY BAUTISTA ’10
to Andrew McCurry
OLIVIA BERGER ’14
to Logan Irwin
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CHADARRYL CL AY ’12
to Maria Magdalena Silguero-Clay 3 CARLY CROWDER ’13
2
to Neil Schenk
4 MEGAN GIVENS ’09
to Brandon Knorr
5 JENNY HOBACK ’08
to Pierre Del Grosso
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SADIE LETT ’13
to Jacob Teague
SOPHIA LEWIS ’08
to Marc Heckmann
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6 SARAH MASTEY ’10
to Kevin Trojanowski
HANNAH MCKAMEY ’13
to Austin Jackson
CAROL PORTERA ’12
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to Ricky Proveaux Jr.
7 AUDREY POWERS ’11
to Jim Hughes
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ELIZABETH GRACE RIDDLE ’15
to Andrew Douglas
8 EMILY ROBERTS ’07
to Ryan Flynn WE LOVE HEARING ABOUT YOUR SPECIAL DAY! SEND YOUR PHOTOS TO ALUMNEWS@ GPS.EDU.
CAROLINE STITTS ’14
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to Matthew Jordan
CHARLOTTE WHITFIELD ’16
to Robert Carpenter
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9 JULIANNE WILSON ’10
to David Gray
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BRING ON THE BABIES! SHARE BY EMAILING US AT ALUMNEWS@GPS.EDU.
1 SUSAN SPICKNALL ASHLEY ’07
a daughter, Tess Margaret Ashley
MERRY MADELINE MOORE BISHOP ’05
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5 CATHERINE FIELDS DOSTER ’08
a daughter, Virginia Charis “Nia” Doster MADDY WARD DUNN ’14
a son, George Bosang Bishop, and a daughter, Margaret Latimore Bishop
a daughter, Lometa Rhea Dunn
MADELINE LIMERICK BRADY ’08
a son, Felix Richardson Hodnett
ALLISON WHITEHEAD CARDIN ’98
a son, Jameson Blake Handschuh
a son, Rivers Michael Brady a son, Miller Brady Cardin
6 MEGAN GRANT ’05
7 ROBYN SPINK HANDSCHUH ’06
EL ANA GUL AS JOLLIE ’04
2 ALICE REVENIG CL ARK ’04
a son, James Edward Jollie III
3 LYDIA BOWMAN CONDRON ’11
a son, Theodore Henry Atlas Kell
a son, Thomas John Clark
a daughter, Willa Ann Condron
4 KAITLIN DEWHIRST DETERS ’06
a daughter, Clara James Deters
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8 MARGARET JOHNSON KELL ’08
9 KATE MYERS KENEMER ’04
a daughter, Jane Evelyn “Janie” Kenemer 10 ANNA HENSON LLOYD ’10
a daughter, Mary Scott Lloyd
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11 ELIZABETH KENNEDY LUCIA ’05
a daughter, Elizabeth Stetson “Libby” Lucia 12 LINDSAY WATTS MAUNEY '05 ,
a son, Jonathan Michael “Jon Michael” Mauney Jr. 13 MAGGIE LAROCHELLE RICHARDS ’03
a son, Charles Edward Richards
14 BRANDI ANDREWS SHEELY ’07
a daughter, MaKenzie Joi Sheely
15 KRISTA ROSS STEPHENS ’03
a son, Theodore James “Theo” Stephens 16 ASHLEY BABB TRANTHAM ’07
a son, Henry Hayes Trantham
ADEL AIDE AHO WEAVER ’12
a son, Finn Weaver
17 NICOLE MCKINNEY WOODY ’11
a daughter, Lyla June Woody
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1 ANITA LYNCH JOHNSTON ’41, of Lookout Mountain, died August 30, 2021. She graduated from Averett College. A lover of gardens and forests, Johnston was a member of the Garden Club of Lookout Mountain and was a volunteer at Memorial Hospital and a member of Junior League, Lookout Mountain Golf Club, and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. 2 EMILY CL ARKSON THOMPSON EAGAR ’42, of Belmont, Massachusetts, died July 6, 2021. She graduated from Chestnut Hill College with a degree in psychology then obtained a master’s in education from Old Dominion University. Eagar was a lifetime advocate of education for all, teaching in schools across the Southeast before retiring and volunteering to teach reading to adults. 3 MARIE BRYSON CRIMMINS ’47, of Chattanooga, died
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June 19, 2021. After graduating from Marymount College, she returned to Chattanooga to volunteer in the community. A longtime member of Our Lady of the Mount Catholic Church, Crimmins served on the Altar Care Committee for 60 years. 4 JOAN L AUDERBACH ANDERSON ’49, of Dalton, Georgia, died June 4, 2021. She taught for 25 years at Cheerhaven School in Dalton. After retiring, Anderson became a Red Cross volunteer at Hamilton Medical Center. She was an active member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. 5 ELISE ANDERSON CRATES ’51, of Chattanooga, died
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October 8, 2021. She graduated from the University of Kentucky, where she majored in history and English. After graduation, Crates worked for Braniff World Airways as a member of the Chattanooga team. She traveled extensively with her husband, an executive with the Simco and Crates Leather Company. 6 VIRGINIA “JYNNI” BROOKS HITCHING ANDREWS ’57,
of Lookout Mountain, Georgia, died August 13, 2021. She played the clarinet and loved animals.
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7 ANN CORBITT ’57, of Ringgold, Georgia, died May 25, 2021. During her time at GPS, she distinguished herself in the classroom, in the art studio, and on the stage. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Georgia with a degree in English and then obtained her master’s in English literature from the University of California, Berkeley. Corbitt taught in the Atlanta public school system for several years before earning a Master of Fine Arts from Boston University. 8 MARTHA JAN MOTT POWELL ’58, of Lookout Mountain,
died September 15, 2021. She enjoyed being a mother and neighbor to her Lookout Mountain community. Powell was a member of the Outlook Club, welcoming new residents to the mountain.
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the lessons, too. Here's to the ring we wear for her hope that we still may be, Proven through every test to the GPS. Here's to the girls of the GPS we wear for her. Here's to the black and blue. Here's through every test, Worthy the school we most rels of the GPS. Here's to the lessons, too. Here's to ck and blue. Here's to the hope that we still may be hool we most revere. Here's to the GPS. Here's to ns, too. Here's to the ring we wear for her. Here's to we still may be, Proven through every test, Wore GPS. Here's to the girls of the GPS. Here's ear for her. Here's to the black and blue. Here's to ough every test, Worthy the school we most revere the GPS. Here's to the lessons, too. Here's to the IN MEMORIAM
9 PHYLLIS ANN SCOGIN-VOGT ’60, of Fairview,
North Carolina, died August 11, 2021.
of Greensboro, North Carolina, died August 26, 2021. She earned a degree in sociology from Hollins College. Bryan spent decades in corporate sales for both the telecommunications and travel industries. She was active in many organizations, including The Colonial Dames of America, The Assembly, Green Thumb Garden Club, the Wednesday Literary Club, and the Junior League of Greensboro. 10 MARY DICKINSON BRYAN ’61,
11 NANCY JANE ELLIS ’66, of Augusta, Georgia, died October 19, 2021. She graduated from Katharine Gibbs School before returning to the South to lay down roots in Augusta, Georgia. Ellis was a commercial real estate agent at Sherman & Hemstreet and proudly served on the board of the Downtown Development Authority of Augusta.
REMEMBERING OUR FACULTY AND STAFF
VERONIK A NOWADING, beloved history teacher
and colleague, who retired in 2006 after more than 25 years as a member of the GPS faculty, died Friday, November 5, 2021. Her daughter, Justine Nowading Avera ’85, is a GPS alumna.
EDWARD “ED” MCMURRAY FISHER, McCallie alumni, GPS Trustee (1972-94), and GPS Board Chair (1976-78), died August 22, 2021. His daughter Catherine "Kitty" Fisher Delany ’75 is a GPS alumna.
of Berea, Kentucky, died May 5, 2019. As a Licensed Massage Therapist, she had a passion for natural healing and health. 12 ROSANN “ROSE” EFFRON ’68,
of Sandy Springs, Georgia, died September 15, 2021. She received her Ph.D. in Human Resources Development and instructed the choir at Trinity Anglican Church, where she was a member. Though she moved from Chattanooga, she remained devoted to GPS throughout her life. She was known for being a compassionate and caring friend and neighbor. 13 LUCINDA GIBSON ’68,
of Indian Trail, North Carolina, died February 15, 2021. She graduated from Florida State University with a degree in music education and then obtained a master’s in music from the University of Georgia. Lynn taught in schools around the Southeast before retiring from Union County Public Schools after 14 years. She was involved in coordinating musical theater productions, both in her schools and various community venues.
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14 LYNN HATFIELD MITCHELL ’72,
15 VICTORIA “VICKY” ELIZABETH ALSTON JENNINGS ’73, of Red Bank, Tennessee, died September 15, 2021. She was
the first Director of the St. Jude Catholic Preschool, where she worked for 20 years. After her departure from St. Jude, Jennings finished her career at Red Bank City Hall. She loved her family, friends, home, cats, and music plus hanging out by the pool and walking across the Walnut Street Bridge.
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The Many Faces of Giving TIME | TALENTS | TREASURES
Our school would not be the vibrant culture we enjoy if not for those who give so that our girls—and the adults who support them—can thrive. From volunteers who spend hours on campus in myriad roles to those who support our school with generous monetary gifts and even provide summer jobs so students can learn invaluable life skills, giving looks different for everyone. While support for GPS is innumerable, we share here four stories of folks who love GPS well with their giving. We are grateful to those who partner with us so we can provide the exceptional GPS experience to girls—present and future.
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THE MANY FACES OF GIVING
Tammy Combs
AT TORNEY AND MOCK TRIAL COACH
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ammy Combs grew up in a family of girls—in fact, three generations of females—so choosing Girls Preparatory School for her daughters, Olivia ’19 and Julia ’22, and twin nieces Anna ’21 and Emma ’21, was an easy decision. She also knew from her experiences in historically male-dominated professions—first as a CPA and then an attorney—that she wanted them to be confident and discover their places without relation to their gender. “I wanted them to find themselves without thinking, ‘I don’t know if I can do this because I’m not a man,’” Combs says. “I wanted them to be challenged academically and personally in a school that would encourage that inner person. Otherwise I knew they’d get bored, which could lead to trouble and a less than happy and fulfilled life.” What hasn’t been as easy for Combs is seeing her girls’ time as students at GPS reach an end. In four short years, she will have attended three GPS commencement ceremonies for her four girls. But those bittersweet milestones have been peppered with lots of memories for not only the girls—who all attended from sixth through 12th grades—but for herself as well.
Combs believes the skills the girls learn during Mock Trial are invaluable. “Not only do you have to think on your feet in a high-pressure situation where your words are being scrutinized,” she says, “but you also have to listen and prepare a thoughtful, intentional response. These are great skills for many settings, including job and college interviews, where they’ll need to talk about themselves but also respond to questions.” According to Combs, students who join Mock Trial are blown away by what they accomplish. “They learn their style and what works for them,” Combs says. And while some might have their sights set on a career in law, “I think they want to do something that challenges them— to stand in front of people and present their ideas and to come together as a team. It’s a lot of work but a lot of fun.” While all four of her girls were at home, Combs worked as a part-time AUSA, giving her time to also volunteer with Terpsichord by assisting with costumes and refreshments and providing extra support for the dancers, and with GPS theater productions, building and painting sets; assisting actors with hair, makeup, and costumes during production; and providing food for the actors. “I’ve loved every second,” she says.
“My high school experience was very different,” she says. “We were into makeup and hair and trying to make an impression.” Combs liked that her four girls weren’t distracted by boys in the classroom. “GPS helped make them all independent—motivated them to find what mattered, to find something that interested them, to try everything and see where it would take them.” Eight years ago, along with Judge Brian House, Combs started the school’s Mock Trial team, building on their first year with just enough students to field a team to last year’s two of five teams claiming the state championship title and the third-place finish, with more than 30 GPS girls participating. Coaching Mock Trial remains a passion project for Combs. As an Assistant United States Attorney, her spare time is limited but she remains committed, along with Judge House, to the teams and plans to continue even after Julia graduates this spring. “It’s incredible to see the girls grow from being unsure of themselves to how they perform at the end of the season,” she says.
Combs (center) with daughters Olivia ’19 (top right), Julia ’22 (bottom left), and twin nieces Anna ’21 (top left) and Emma ’21.
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Chandler Key ’13 ALUMNAE AND ENGINEER
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he Key family’s ties to GPS and McCallie run deep, but Chandler Key ’13 wasn’t convinced she wanted to stay the path. “I thought I wanted to go to Baylor,” she says. But she and twin sister Calyn followed in the Big Blue footsteps of her father, Charles Key Jr., who graduated from McCallie in 1980, and her late aunt Glynn Key ’82. “I really enjoyed my time at GPS.” Chandler Key attended GPS summer camps and later worked as a volunteer counselor, but she blazed her own trail as a Bruiser athlete, playing soccer and basketball and running track. “Athletics meant a lot to me,” she says. “Sports are important for building teamwork and help you learn to be coachable. Constructive criticism sets you up to work well with others and realize you’re there for one goal. You learn to be somebody others can count on.” While in college at Tennessee Tech, she tapped into her athletic ability as a way to meet people and keep her stress at bay. She played nearly every intramural sport she could—flag football, volleyball, kickball. “If I could play it, I’d try it,” she says. “I played to make friends and stay active and in shape. Sports definitely help me feel better.”
Chandler (left) with her aunt, Glynn D. Key ’82, and her twin sister, Calyn ’21.
Key graduated from Tennessee Tech with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering, spending multiple semesters on the dean’s list and receiving several awards—the Community Service Excellence Award and the Coretta Scott King Award. She served as a mentor for four years in a scholar’s program for minority freshmen to help their transition from high school to college and now works at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama in Lincoln as the Cylinder Head Quality Lead. Key says her favorite class at GPS was physics with Mr. Bryant Haynes, who she also had for chemistry. “I really liked the hands-on labs we did. He’s great at explaining things and making it easier.”
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But her love of engineering was sparked in middle school, and she attended an engineering camp at University of Tennessee Chattanooga. “I was always interested in how things work and go together,” Key says. “So when I started college, that’s what I homed in on. I like the fast pace of manufacturing and like to be on the floor working with people and determining how to make their jobs better versus sitting at a desk. I’m constantly trying to make my team’s jobs more efficient from a quality standpoint.” Key says she enjoys her job and life in Alabama but does consider an eventual return to Chattanooga, to possibly work with the family business. Her mom, Cheryl Key, is an owner of the John P. Franklin Funeral Home, named after her grandfather. Chandler’s great-grandfather, George W. Franklin, started Franklin Funeral Home in 1894, becoming the city’s first Black funeral director and embalmer. “My family members are big legacies in Chattanooga, and I feel a responsibility to maintain that,” she says. “There are high expectations for me, because of what my family has done, but I’m definitely up to the challenge.” In the meantime, she stays connected to GPS through her giving. She continues to support the Glynn D. Key Memorial Scholarship Fund, gives to the annual Impact Fund, and has recently contributed to the GPS Black Alumnae Council Endowed Scholarship that provides tuition assistance to a current or incoming Black GPS student(s). “My class had the most Black girls at GPS at the time, and I continue to stay in touch with a few of them,” Key says. “My Black classmates were a really important part of my GPS experience, and I want to do what I can to make that available to other girls.”
THE MANY FACES OF GIVING
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ew people can claim to have spent more time on the GPS and McCallie campuses than Mary Cherry. She and her late husband, Bill, lived at McCallie for 37 years while he worked as the Athletic Director from 1973 to 2008 and then while he remained at the school as a math teacher. Together they raised two daughters, McLean and Rachel, along with countless McCallie boys and GPS girls who called their home down the hill their own. The Cherry girls would go on to graduate from GPS, McLean in ’87 and Rachel in ’92; granddaughter Liza Rogers ’21, Rachel’s daughter, is a GPS senior this year. McLean’s son, Bridger Bayens, has declared himself a McCallie boy after attending McCallie summer camp for several years, even though he lives in Aspen, Colorado. When the Cherry’s 27-year home at McCallie was torn down to make room for a campus expansion, they moved to a second home on campus for another 10 years and then to a home over the Ridge where she still lives today. Liza has had slumber parties at her home as well as some teen gatherings. “Liza is more independent of me now, but she and her friends still show up sometimes,” Cherry says. In that first home, Mary and Bill opened up their livingroom to the GPS | McCallie YoungLife group in the 1980s with assistance from GPS Bible teacher Jane Henegar. Each week the Cherry family would clear out furniture to make room for the students until the group swelled to more than 100 kids. “What a blessing that was to our family and to the teenagers,” Cherry says.
This school year, Cherry is enjoying granddaughter Liza’s final year, and she volunteered at the fall GPS Impact Fund Phone-A-Thon. “I’m not sure it’s my gift, but I called only people I knew so they’d feel obligated to give,” she says with a laugh. Cherry has also worked the used uniform sales, starting before The Golden Buckle had a permanent space in the Davenport middle school building. Volunteering at GPS has given Cherry a chance to see her granddaughter and to get to know the teachers. She also enjoys receiving hugs from former Bright students who remember her as their librarian. “With both parents typically working, it’s hard for them to find time to volunteer. The grandparents are the ones with the time to help out,” she says. Cherry still plans to be a part of the GPS community, even after Liza graduates this May, and she hopes other grandparents will find ways to serve alongside her. “I love this school,” she says of GPS. “It’s been wonderful for my girls and my granddaughter. I want to be here and be involved and feel useful. I’d rather be busy than to just sit and sip tea. Let me serve the tea!”
Mary Cherry
PAST PARENT, GRANDPARENT, AND VOLUNTEER
Cherry’s own career started off with an unpaid gig at The Bright School as a parent volunteer. She then went on to work as the school’s assistant librarian for 31 years before retiring. During that time she would also become McCallie’s coed cheerleading coach for six years, the first of which happened to coincide with Rachel’s senior year, much to her dismay. “I had no idea what I was doing,” Cherry says. “But I taught them stunts and nobody died. Sweet memories and dear friendships were made, so it was all good!” These last few years she has been found working the concession stand at McCallie football and basketball games. Cherry says her girls’ GPS experience gave her a lifelong love for the school. McLean made such good friends that when she married at Snowmass (Colorado) 24 years after she graduated, all five of her bridesmaids were former GPS classmates.
“I love this school,” she says of GPS. “It’s been wonderful for my girls and my granddaughter. I want to be here and be involved and feel useful.”
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The Rhodes Family OWNERS OF L AKE WINNEPESAUK AH
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drienne White Rhodes ’50, granddaughter of Lake Winnepesaukah park founder Carl Dixon, started her career at Lake Winnepesaukah, Chattanooga, Tennessee’s original family-focused amusement park, as an errand girl, sharpener of pencils, and deliverer of change. Over the years she held many positions, including driver and telephone operator, and eventually managed advertising, promotions, and office finances. Today President of Lake Winepesaukah’s multiple businesses, Rhodes continues the legacy of her grandfather and founder of the company with the support of her two daughters, Tennyson Rhodes Dickinson ’76 and Talley Rhodes Green ’82. “I worked at the park through high school and college and then joined the business full time, as expected, later becoming a third generation of female business owners,” Rhodes explains. “Tennyson and Talley also grew up working at the park in the summers, and while they both pursued other careers after college, they were drawn back to add their respective business backgrounds to grow the business.”
Adrienne ’50 (bottom) with her daughters, Tennyson ’76 (left) and Talley ’82 (right).
“GPS provides not only a positive environment for learning, but also strong role models in faculty who challenge the girls and prepare them for life.”
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Dickinson was President of Harrison Catalog Company, a publisher of direct mail catalogs for Coca-Cola, Campbell’s Soup, and other companies before returning to the family business. Today she serves as Treasurer of Lake Winnepesaukah, describing her chief role as “putting smiles on customers’ faces.” During her tenure with the park, she has seen a multitude of successes, admitting one of her proudest accomplishments was leading the expansion plans for Soak Ya, a 6.5-acre waterpark addition that has been acclaimed by the World Waterpark Association. “It was certainly a series of hurdles for which there is neither a textbook nor training,” she says. As Secretary of Lake Winnepesaukah, Green’s responsibilities include advertising, publicity, entertainment, promotions, and special events. Before joining the family team at the park, Green worked at the Creative Discovery Museum, The Hunter Museum of American Art, and Tennessee River Gorge Trust in Chattanooga. She was even
the youngest-ever proofreader at a local law firm. “GPS instilled in me a lifelong love of learning and a solid command of the English language,” she says. The Rhodes women credit GPS with forming competent and confident women, hallmark qualities for solid leadership. “GPS provides not only a positive environment for learning, but also strong role models in faculty who challenge the girls and prepare them for life,” Dickinson says. “I am fortunate that GPS shaped me into who I am and has also shaped my daughters into women of integrity and purpose.” Individually they support GPS through their giving to the annual fund and special projects. Together, Rhodes, Dickinson, and Green remain committed to the family values the park was founded on, as well as its long history of women in leadership positions. Similarly, the park and its leaders have provided a starting point for many young employees. Rhodes created an annual scholarship program in 2012 awarded to an employee who demonstrates outstanding dedication and service to the park. Green explains, “Lake Winnie’s scholarship program promotes the value of education along with work ethic.” A part of the community since 1925, Lake Winnepesaukah is nearing its centennial, and the Rhodes family desires to continue to provide a family-focused, fun experience filled with sentimental charm. “Our goal remains to continue to provide safe, wholesome family fun for our guests,” Rhodes says. “It is our pleasure to see happy folks of all ages enjoying the park.” “When you are involved in a family business, it reflects your life,” Dickinson adds. “I am proud to be in a business that can bring the precious commodity of joy to children. At a time when, Wordsworth’s words ‘the world is too much with us’ seem more true than ever, it is gratifying to see that our job of providing fun to children and families offers a reprieve from life that rejuvenates and puts countless smiles on faces.”
Save the Dates!
Online Auction March 4-13, 2022 and
Saturday, March 12, 2022
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.
SAVE DATE
the APRIL Reunion & WEEKEND &7s
CLASS
2s
Y EARS
THE EGG HUNT IS BACK!
GPS.EDU/REUNIONWEEKEND
8 9 2022
