T H E S C H O O L M AG A Z I N E • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 4
A Unique Perspective SHEA SISK WELLFORD ’87
Some people would say that insects really bug them, but not our zoology students or first graders! Upper school zoology students captured and identified a variety of insects, including butterflies, wasps, dragonflies, and grasshoppers. They visited first graders to show them their collections. First graders have been learning about different habitats and created informative presentations and dioramas about an animal of their choice. Our girls enjoyed this fantastic opportunity to learn from each other and spend time together. Photograph by Jayme Lewis
Photo by Kaveh Sardari
AT HUTCHISON, IT WAS “IMPORTANT TO ME TO ALWAYS THINK—TO THINK OUTSIDE OF THE BOX, TO THINK ABOUT THINGS FROM MULTIPLE PERSPECTIVES, AND TO THINK AHEAD. THIS IS SOMETHING THAT I TOOK WITH ME, AND I CONTINUE TO APPLY TO MY DAILY LIFE.
”
— D R . B R I T TA N Y- R A E G R E G O RY R I V E R S ’ 0 8
CONTENTS FEATURES
ALUMNAE NEWS
8 Theatre: Annie
48 Alumnae Gatherings
14 Institute for Responsible Citizenship Travel: Learning Independence and Exploring the World
50 Professionally Speaking
18 Joyful Memories: Grandparents’ & Grandfriends’ Day 2023 28 Hutchison’s New Security Center 36 Graduation: Class of 2023
ALUMNAE PROFILES 22 Shea Sisk Wellford ’87: A Change of Tone: How a Move to Memphis Opened Up a New World
30 Brittany-Rae Gregory Rivers ’08 A Love of Writing Extends to Public Service
52 Milestones: Marriages, Births & Adoptions, Memorials 54 A Visit to Trezevant: Bringing Timelines to Life 56 Class Notes
D E PA R T M E N T S 3 Are You Following Us? 6 Milestone Service Anniversaries and Board of Trustees 34 Introducing the Laurie Fraser Stanton Loyalty Society 44 Hutchison 2023 Golf Scramble 46 Hutchison 2023 Tennis Round Robin
Cover photo by Brandon Dill
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M E S S AG E | F R O M T H E H E A D O F S C H O O L
dear friends, I have a unique perspective when I talk about Hutchison to parents, teachers, prospective parents, alumnae, and donors. I know all the workings of the school, and I also work with a board of trustees and leadership team who know where we are currently and can envision where we can go next. This past year, we were focused on the security of our campus, and after much work and community support, we were able to build a new security center (see page 28) and implement a number of additional security measures. This is just the beginning of the transformation our campus will undergo in the next 5-10 years, and I feel fortunate that I am able to lead during this time. Thanks to our transformative programs under the Institute for Responsible Citizenship, our students are able to have unique perspectives of the world they live in, whether by visiting Boston and New York to delve deeper into career areas that are of interest to them, or further afield to Italy and Costa Rica to learn about and understand other cultures (see pages 14-17). We believe it is part of our job to make sure our girls have exposure to experiences both in Memphis and elsewhere. These experiences expand their worldviews and open up new opportunities. Our alumnae bring what they learned at Hutchison and beyond to life in their careers in a number of unique ways. Shea Sisk Wellford ’87 serves as president of the law firm where she works—the first woman to be appointed to that position. She also serves as the first woman on the firm’s executive committee. She’s worked hard to be in those positions, and her voice brings a change of tone and perspective. Brittany-Rae Gregory Rivers ’08 didn’t know when she accepted a new job in March of 2020 that the world was about to change in a big way, but she brought her passion for creative writing and storytelling, which she nurtured at Hutchison and in college, to her work in this new world and continues to offer her unique perspective. I encourage you to see what’s different about your perspective and how that might impact the world. Odds are, it is unique. Warmly,
Kristen Ring, Ed.D. | President and Head of School
MISSION
E DI TOR
PHOTOGR A PHY
Hutchison School is dedicated to
Max Maddock
Cathy Barber, Jessica Coulson, Brandon
academic excellence and to the
Director of Communications
Dill, Danielle Katz, Melanie Melugin,
parallel development of mind, body,
mmaddock@hutchisonschool.org
Gabrielle Prewitt, Kaveh Sardari, and
and spirit as it educates young women for success in college and for lives of
CON S U LTI N G EDI TOR
various Hutchison constituents.
integrity and responsible citizenship.
Lori Guy
Hutchison Magazine is published by
Director of Strategy
the Hutchison Communications Office.
HU TC H I S O N M AGAZ I NE
lguy@hutchisonschool.org
JA N UA RY 2 024
ALU M N A E DI R ECTOR
P R E SI D E N T AND H E AD O F S CH O O L
Mary Aubrey Landrum Stafford ’10
Kristen D. Ring, Ed.D.
mstafford@hutchisonschool.org D ES I GN ER Barbara Himber
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Please forward address changes to: HUTCHISON SCHOOL 1740 RIDGEWAY ROAD MEMPHIS, TN 38119 or khouston@hutchisonschool.org
Are You Following Us?
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Hutchison Receives Highest AP School Honor Roll Distinction
Lauren Coleman ’24
Zelia Cedeño-Avila ’24
Two Seniors Recognized by College Board Hutchison earned Platinum distinction on the 2023 AP School Honor Roll, a recognition given by the College Board. The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Our Platinum distinction reflects our commitment to providing opportunities for students to earn college credit and maximizing college readiness.
Jordan Deupree ’24
Lara Eason ’24
The College Board named seniors Lauren Coleman and Zelia Cedeño-Avila National African American Recognition Program Scholars. This program recognizes academically exceptional African American students who have scored in the top 10 percent of the state on the PSAT or earned a score of 3 or higher on two or more AP exams by their junior year. To qualify, they must also have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Anne Hartmann Lewis ’24
Corinne Rhodes ’24
National Merit Commended Scholars Jordan Deupree ’24, Lara Eason ’24, Anne Hartmann Lewis ’24, and Corinne Rhodes ’24 have been named National Merit Commended Scholars based on their junior year PSAT scores, recognizing their outstanding ability and potential for academic success in college. This makes them eligible for special scholarships offered by corporate sponsors.
Artwork by Maude Burrow ’25 Displayed at Teen Arts Festival In November, the Teen Arts Festival at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library featured two works by Maude Burrow ’25: “Ring” and “Playground Days.” The festival celebrated the talents of young artists through a juried art exhibition. “Ring”
“Playground Days” Hutchison | 3
Stepping Up to Serve with Hutchison Service Saturday
Hutchison middle and upper school students and parents volunteered at two Service Saturdays this fall. They served at the Forrest Spence 5K and the Church Health Community Kitchen. Hutchison Service Saturday is a new Hutchison Serves program that will happen four times during the academic year. These opportunities will provide actionable ways to demonstrate to our girls that service is an extraordinary way to build community while giving back.
Hutchison Thanks First Responders
One of our top priorities is to ensure the Hutchison community feels safe and secure. In November, we hosted a Cop Stop, inviting members of the Memphis Police Department, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and Memphis Fire Department for some of Chef Willie’s famous fried chicken and fixings. Our girls showed gratitude for their hard work. Students wrote messages thanking them, prepared sweet treats for them to take home, and welcomed them with big smiles and warm hellos. 4 | Hutchison
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Meriel Rowland ’24 Signs to Run Track for The University of Alabama Meriel Rowland ’24 signed her National Letter of Intent at a signing ceremony in November. Rowland, one of the most decorated athletes in Hutchison history, has won multiple track regional championships, several cross country regional championships and holds three school records. She selected Alabama over several other Division I programs. In December, Rowland also was the top female finisher in the St. Jude Marathon 5K.
Golf Team Goes to State
Cross Country Competes at State
The Hutchison cross country team finished third in the region and made it all the way to the State tournament.
Sting golf saw a terrific season from 8th grade sensation Catherine Bowie ’28, who shot an opening round of 73 and led the team to a fourth place finish in the State tournament.
Varsity Soccer Advances to State Tournament The Sting had another successful season in 2023, making their second consecutive State tournament semifinal appearance. Hutchison defeated Pope John Paul II 1-0 in the State quarterfinal match hosted at Dobbs Field, thanks to a goal from Molly Browne ’26. Unfortunately, the Sting couldn’t get past the eventual State champions, Baylor, and lost in the semifinal in Chattanooga.
Middle School Tennis Team - State Champs
Our middle school tennis team finished strong as the Shelby League and Tennessee Gold Division Champions! The team won their division at the Tennessee Middle School Tennis State Championship event hosted by USTA Tennessee and TMSAA in Murfreesboro over fall break. In the Shelby League tournament, our girls won the team, singles, and doubles titles. Ann Smith ’28 and Maggie Mavar ’28 placed 1st and 2nd in singles, and Margaret Campbell ’28 and Whitney Bricken ’28 won doubles. Hutchison | 5
2023-2024 Milestone Service Anniversaries 45
25
20
15
Katy Nair
Lynn Erickson
Jay Rapp
John Reynolds
Gwendolyn Adaway
Glenda Akers
Donna Budynas
Lauren Colpitts
10
Lucy Wesson ’74
10
Jesse Cresswell
Marianna Heimbach
Thomas Jones
Roxie Sharp
Catherine Kastner ’85
Cathy Adams
Tonya Faulkner
Helen Guyton ’05
Janae Rayford
Caroline Schaefer ’08
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T hank you! 6 | Hutchison
2023-2024 Board of Trustees & Leadership Team The board welcomes the following new members: Jason Farmer and Palmer Smith.
Jason Farmer
Palmer Smith
Hutchison appreciates the service of our retiring board members: Dr. Reginald W. Coopwood, William R. Tayloe, and Todd Watson.
2 02 3- 2 024 BOARD OF T RUST E E S
2023- 2 024 LE A D E R SHIP TE AM
The Hutchison board of trustees is the guardian of the school’s mission. In partnership with the head of school, the board sets the vision and strategy for the school and ensures sound financial management and proper stewardship of resources.
Great schools are distinguished by exceptional teamwork and collaboration across the organization. Our faculty and staff are led by a dynamic group of individuals known as our leadership team under the guidance of the head of school.
Dr. Kristen Ring PRESIDENT & HEAD OF SCHOOL
Edward J. Dobbs CHAIR
Ragan Crawford Magness ’88 VICE CHAIR
Craig L. Weiss TREASURER
Will Deupree III S E C R E TA RY
Emily Bryce Bowie ’00 Jenny Werner Carter ’89 Allison Cates Chris Crosby Jason Farmer Megan Wellford Grinder ’91 Jason Higginbotham Betsy Horn Dr. Shari Jefferies Hardin Barton Kimmel ’92 Veazey Gully Krausnick ’78 Andrew R. McCarroll Michelle Nelson Miller ’84 Richard C. Moore, Jr. Palmer Smith Sequoia Taylor ’04 McLean T. Wilson Julie Aaron Wunderlich Paul A. Young
Dr. Kristen Ring
Nick Simpson
PRESIDENT & HEAD OF SCHOOL
DIRECTOR OF THE INSTITUTE FOR RESPONSIBLE CITIZENSHIP
Catherine Chubb ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dr. Alyssa Villarreal ACADEMIC DEAN
Elizabeth Chisholm Jordan ’86 EARLY CHILDHOOD HEAD
Katharine Duerr Kent ’95
Caroline Schaefer ’08 ATHLETICS DIRECTOR
Sarah Wright
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
Melissa Baker CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
LOWER SCHOOL HEAD
Lori Guy
Trey Wilson MIDDLE SCHOOL HEAD
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGY
Adrienne Forgette
Max Maddock
UPPER SCHOOL HEAD
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Tonya Faulkner DIRECTOR OF STUDENT INCLUSION & BELONGING
Laura Shy ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR
Gee Whiskers and Leapin’ Lizards, thank you for bringing magic to the Hutchison stage! SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR
PRESENTING SPONSOR Dorothy Orgill Kirsch ’51 PLAYBILL SPONSORS Annie’s Coat: Indigo Hoovervilles: Vicki and Jim McCullough Orphans’ Hot Mush: Hollis & Burns Oval Office: Drs. John and Shari Jefferies Oxydent Hour of Smiles Radio Show: Laura Beth and Matt Gabriel Orphanage Sweatshop: Germantown Dermatology Sandy: Ginger McCullough ’97 and Lance Wilson
PATRON SPONSORS
Drs. Veronica Ahmadian and Reza Ahmadian Jennifer and Jay Campbell Catherine and Mark Chubb Michelle and Chris Clothier Brenda and Fred Grinder Cara Baskin ’96 and Justin Grinder The Crump Firm
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Photos by Brandon Dill
Tomorrow, Tomorrow …
We love ya, cast and crew members of Annie! Students in grades 3–12, faculty, and alumnae gave four amazing performances of our fall musical. Annie, the Broadway musical, was created based on a popular newspaper comic strip from the 1920s. The musical tells the story of an orphan who is chosen to spend the Christmas holidays with billionaire Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks. At a challenging period in American history, Annie represented hope and optimism by declaring that “the sun’ll come out tomorrow!” What an appropriate sentiment for ANY era! Thank you, Annie, for reminding us that we can find the sunrise in the darkest of times.
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photo by Melanie Melugin
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CAST AND CREW talked about their experiences in working to bring Annie to life.
AYRAH KASHMIRI ’24 | ANNIE What were your favorite things about playing Annie? I loved being able to serve as a role model for all of the younger girls and getting to work with a dog. What was it like to work with a dog on stage? I choreographed his blocking, from how he sat to how he ran to me. It was difficult, but incredibly rewarding. What do you like about theatre? I enjoy performing and being a part of something bigger. The most beautiful thing is that you get to see the impact of what you’ve created.
ZELIA CEDEÑO-AVILA ’24 | CREW What made you interested in working sound for productions? I was fascinated by what it takes to handle all the microphones and operate the sound board. What do you enjoy about being on the tech crew? I love the feeling I get after a show, especially the joy. Things don’t always go smoothly, but as long as the crowd enjoys it, that’s what matters. How does it feel to be a senior and student leader within Hutchison theatre? It’s surreal. I remember the former students who trained me, and now it’s my turn to be a mentor. I’ve learned a lot, and it’s fun to think about where I can take this in the future. 12 | Hutchison
ELOISE MCDONALD ’28 | JULY, A STAR-TO-BE, ENSEMBLE, AND DANCE CAPTAIN What do you like about theatre? I enjoy acting, dancing, and singing. Being on stage makes me feel accomplished. What made you excited to perform in the show? I loved being in all the dance numbers! It was fun to be on stage for most of the show, switch between the various roles, and act as different characters. What was your favorite song that you were a part of? I loved “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile,” because my dad portrayed Bert Healy, and we got to make fun of him. I was excited to perform with my dad on stage and do something together that we both love.
LOUISE PIETRANGELO ’32 & KAYLEI WHITE ’32 | TESSIE & KATE
BRANNON CHUBB ’25 | MISS HANNIGAN How did it feel to play Miss Hannigan? It was fun to step outside of my comfort zone when it comes to acting because I usually play characters on the “good side.” What was your favorite scene? I loved the scene at the end when I walked into the Warbucks mansion and didn’t notice that President Franklin D. Roosevelt is there. I bowed to his feet after realizing it, and it was hilarious to me, because my teacher, Mr. Reynolds, was playing him. What do you like about theatre? It is a great way to express myself. I also love the community because everyone is welcoming and nice. Everybody brings a different talent and skill, and it’s nice to see each person shine in her own special way.
How did it feel to be in your first show at Hutchison? Kaylei: It made me feel happy and comfortable. I was able to get over my stage fright. Louise: I enjoyed making a lot of friends and becoming part of a big theatre family. What was your favorite part of being in Annie? Louise: The choreography and stunts were fun to work on and perform! Kaylei: I loved the funny scenes when we messed with Miss Hannigan. What were you most excited for people to see? The song, “It’s the Hard Knock Life”—it was full of surprises!
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I N S T I T U T E F O R R E S P O N S I B L E C I T I Z E N S H I P T R AV E L
Learning Independence … Hutchison’s Institute for Responsible Citizenship features an intensive, multi-year experiential learning opportunity for highly motivated students called myExperience. This past summer, rising juniors and seniors who are part of this program explored their respective fields of study on trips to New York and Boston. Two cohorts—global civic engagement and entrepreneurship—visited New York, while the other two—STEM and art and design—traveled to Boston. The students planned both trips and took charge, researching the experiences in their respective cities, determining what they wanted to do, making reservations, planning out their transportation, and budgeting and tracking all expenses.
new york
I learned about how cooperation contributes to global civic engagement and how there are many different ways to help a community or the world at large no matter what your interests or passions are. — CHLOE SIMPSON ’25
Above: The global civic engagement cohort got an inside look at New York City Hall and visited the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Throughout their first year in the cohort, students held discussions about what it means to be a global citizen, the strength of the international community at the United Nations, and the impact of events on American history, such as how the September 11 attacks affected travel and international politics. Above: A highlight of the global civic engagement and entrepreneurship cohorts’ trip to New York was touring the United Nations Headquarters. For some students, it was especially meaningful because they participate in Model UN at Hutchison. Left: While in New York, the two myExperience cohorts met up with Hutchison alumnae to talk about their experiences and hear advice.
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“The goal of these trips is to help girls broaden their perspectives, learn the executive and organizational skills of planning, make connections with professionals, and gain inspiration for their culminating projects,” said Nick Simpson, director of the Institute for Responsible Citizenship. Students also considered their possibilities after Hutchison, visiting at least one college, including Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Northeastern University, Columbia University, and New York University. The girls also enjoyed special experiences along the way, such as seeing the Broadway show Wicked and cheering on a Red Sox win at Fenway Park.
boston In Boston, the STEM cohort was wowed by an artificial intelligence-controlled dog at the Museum of Science. This came as no surprise to their advisors because the cohort had several student-led discussions about robots and AI during the previous school year.
The art and design cohort saw a variety of artistic interpretations on their trip to Boston. Students were amazed by the impressive art collections at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Institute of Contemporary Art.
Jamila Smith Gramsey ’02 gave Dr. Ring and the STEM and art and design cohorts a tour of the software, engineering, and design company EPAM, where she is an innovation consultant, and spoke to the girls about careers in design strategy.
Above: The STEM cohort toured Northeastern University and several other schools. Left: The art and design cohort attended a performance of the Boston Ballet.
It was interesting to see the different types of art and how various artists have different interpretations. — OLIVIA LESTER ’24 Hutchison | 15
I N S T I T U T E F O R R E S P O N S I B L E C I T I Z E N S H I P T R AV E L
… and Exploring the World Middle and upper school students stepped out of their comfort zones and broadened their perspectives as they experienced new people, places, and cultures on trips to Costa Rica and Italy over fall break. These trips were organized by the Institute for Responsible Citizenship, which is planning to offer more global travel opportunities in the future. The Institute’s goal is to help our girls grow and prepare for a world full of international opportunities by giving them a taste of what it’s like to traverse the world. “The best preparation we can give our girls to be independent, responsible citizens is to help them understand what it means to be part of a global community,” said Nick Simpson, director of the Institute for Responsible Citizenship. “The greatest way to understand humanity is to break bread and talk with other people.”
costa rica
During the cooking class, I practiced my Spanish skills and vocabulary. What I didn’t understand, I was able to use context clues to pick up things based on what the instructor was doing. — MADDIE KYLE ’27
Costa Rica has some of the biggest turtle nesting in the world, and it was great to see a group of people coming together to help an endangered species. — ABBY LIVINGSTON ’28
It was cool to see the different ways people go about their daily lives in different parts of the world. — KATE SCOTT LOFTIN ’27
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Seventh, eighth, and ninth graders had an amazing time in Costa Rica visiting Arenal, San Jose, Alajuela, Tortugero, and the Tarcoles River. Students witnessed a baby sea turtle release, soared through the rainforest on a zip line, made patacones and pico in a cooking class, and explored beautiful natural sites such as Manuel Antonio Park and the Poas Volcano. They also tried different local fruits and snacks and got to see monkeys, iguanas, turtles, sloths, a caiman, and even a gladiator beetle. A group of 10th and 11th graders explored historical sites in Rome and Florence, where they discussed the history of the Roman Empire and the impact of the Renaissance. In Rome, the girls took in famous landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon, and also took a day trip to Vatican City. In Florence, they visited Il Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria, and were able to witness the magnificent panoramic view of the city from the Piazzale Michelangelo.
italy
It was interesting to see what I’ve learned in Latin coming to life. It was cool to see the Latin inscriptions everywhere and be able to translate them. — SARAH BETH CUNNINGHAM ’26
It was incredible to realize that history took place in the very room or space we were standing in. — MILLIE MALONE ’25 Hutchison | 17
JOYFUL MEMORIES
GRANDPARENTS’ & GRANDFRIENDS’ DAY 2023
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ALUMNA PROFILE | SHEA SISK WELLFORD ’87
A CHANGE OF TONE:
How a Move to Memphis Opened Up a New World by Max Maddock
When she was 15 years old, Shea Sisk and her family picked
school and also applied to graduate school for English. I
up and moved from Marianna, Arkansas, to Memphis. “It was a
considered going to journalism school at Georgetown. In the
significant life change, to say the least … academically, socially,
end, I decided to go to law school.”
leaving behind all of my friends and coming to a new city,”
No one in her family had ever attended law school, but
Shea Sisk Wellford ’87 said. She said her parents empowered
Wellford recalled that her father and grandfather would
her to choose the school she would go to, and she picked
recount how they sometimes went to the courthouse in
Hutchison, but admits it was daunting. “My school in Arkansas
Marianna to watch trials, a sort of small-town entertainment.
was completely fine, but it was not a challenge.”
“I remember hearing those stories as a kid and thinking that
One of her first memories, in
would have been so interesting to
10th grade, was in an English class
have experienced.”
taught by Billie Anne Williams,
It was a kind of foreshadowing of
who asked the class to write a
her career.
five-paragraph essay. “I thought,
Nowadays, not only is Wellford
‘I don’t know what she’s talking
an accomplished attorney and
about,’ ” Wellford remembered.
shareholder at the Memphis firm
“I went up to her after class, and
of Martin, Tate, Morrow & Marston,
said, ‘Mrs. Williams, I don’t know
P.C., but she was named the firm’s
what a five-paragraph essay is.’
president in 2022 and serves
She held my hand throughout the
on the three-member executive
10th grade year and helped get me
committee. In a profession where
comfortable with the structure of
men generally hold the majority
writing.
of leadership positions, these are
“I had to work hard to learn how
both significant accomplishments.
to study and learn how to succeed
Before her tenure on the executive
academically. By my senior year, I
committee, there had never been a
was in AP classes, and doing well.”
woman appointed.
Whatever Williams taught her because Shea decided to major in
Wellford with husband Alex at her induction as president of the Memphis Bar Association.
English at Vanderbilt. She admits,
into the American College of Trial Lawyers, which describes itself as the “preeminent organization of
though, that she did not have a solid plan as she approached
trial lawyers in North America.” To be nominated as a fellow
her senior year of college. “I kept all of my options open,”
to the organization requires a track record of proven work as
Wellford said. “I think I took every standardized test for
well as recommendations from colleagues, judges, and even
graduate school that I was qualified to take. I applied to law
opposing counsel. It’s something Wellford is most proud of.
“Hearing a woman’s voice is different and catches others’ attention—people listen. It’s a change of tone and your perspective can be unique.”
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Photo by Brandon Dill
must have made an impression,
In 2017, Wellford was inducted
Photo by Brandon Dill
She’s also served in numerous positions within professional organizations, both locally and nationally, including with the Memphis Bar Association, where she has served in all the leadership roles, including president. Last year, she was named to the Memphis Business Journal’s 2023 Best of the Bar awards for her work in civil and commercial litigation.
GETTING HER FEET WET Mrs. Williams’ high school assignment wasn’t the only thing that was daunting to Wellford early on. She remembers that after graduating law school and passing the bar, she showed up at Martin Tate to a threefoot stack of paper files on her desk and a note that simply read, “Welcome Aboard!” Among those papers were a couple of General Sessions cases
Wellford practices civil and commercial litigation and enjoys learning about all of the different aspects of her clients’ businesses.
due to start in only a month or two. Fortunately, during her last year of law
and I also started to specialize in construction law.
school, Wellford interned with Memphis Area Legal Services,
“With civil and commercial litigation and arbitration, it is
assisting their attorneys with a couple of cases, so she had
necessary to be an effective writer and to communicate well
been in court before. Still, for these beginning cases at
with the court. The foundation that I received at Hutchison,
Martin Tate, she remembers waking up about 20 times the
starting with that five-paragraph essay, made a huge
night before her first trial.
difference, and I built on that by learning persuasive writing.
“It was just a matter of, ‘I’m going to do this,’ ” Wellford
I don’t know if I went into this kind of law because I had
said. “Then for the next one, I think I was still nervous, but I
those skills or if I developed those skills more because this
did it. The more cases I tried, the easier it became. It wasn’t
is the area of law I practice, but my Hutchison background
like flipping a light switch, but it was just the mindset of,
certainly made me confident that I could be effective and
‘okay, I can do that.’ I just kept pushing forward as the cases
successful.
got larger and more important from a monetary and business
“There are many lawyers who don’t like to write but are
issue standpoint. It definitely was a learning process.”
very good on their feet. I just happen to enjoy both aspects,
When she was a young associate at Martin Tate, she
and with the type of law I practice, you must be able to do
explored many different areas of law, from business transactions, real estate, trusts and estates, to litigation.
both.” Wellford said that even though women have tipped the
“I decided I liked litigation and started to focus on business
scales in becoming the majority of law school graduates
litigation and individuals with business-related problems,
nationwide, the data shows that women are still in the
“There are many lawyers who don’t like to write but are very good on their feet. I just happen to enjoy both aspects, and with the type of law I practice, you must be able to do both.”
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“The more cases I tried, the easier it became. It wasn’t like
flipping a light switch, but it was just the mindset of, ‘okay, I can do that.’ ”
minority as far as equity partnerships and leadership roles
effectively, no matter what kind of law you are practicing.”
at law firms.
She credits the experienced attorneys at Martin Tate with
“I think it’s a testament to my law firm that I’m in the
being supportive and encouraging her.
position of president and shareholder,” Wellford said. “I have
She said she feels a responsibility to mentor others
partners who encouraged me as a lawyer regardless of the
as they come along, but that she also benefits from the
fact that I am a woman. When I started practicing 29 years
relationship: “I don’t ever want to be in the position in which
ago, I encountered, outside of my firm, a lot of biases about
I think I have all the answers,” she said. “I always tell the
female lawyers being perceived as good at only certain
associates or younger partners who I’m working with, ‘just because I say this is our argument, or this is what I think, or this is what the law is, I want you to argue with me about it if you think there’s a better way, or if you think I’m wrong.’ I welcome that. I learn so much from that dialogue, and from working with others. “It’s great to see other attorneys who have a different style than I have. I watch them in court, and I learn things from them. They may be approaching issues with a completely different style of arguing that is equally as effective. Much can be learned from that as well.” As an attorney, Wellford is well versed in making a case for her clients but realizes the importance of civil discourse—a skill that Hutchison teaches through the Institute for Responsible Citizenship. “It’s so important to be able to have civil discourse, to be able to truly listen to someone without formulating a response in the moment or interrupting. And then to be able
Wellford with her friend and Hutchison “big sister” Kathie Johnson Alexander ’87, who helped Shea adjust to a new school when she moved to Memphis at age 15.
to communicate back to them in a way that they can listen
things. The perceptions have changed dramatically in the
toward an understanding of the other person’s perspective.”
years since then—I am seeing much less of that today.” Even though she’s still often the only woman in the room, she believes it can be a real plus. “Hearing a woman’s voice
to you so that you can have a discussion that may or may not get you to an agreement, but that may get you closer She also likes to quote the politician Howard Baker, whose father told him: “You should always go through life working on the assumption that the other guy might be right.”
is different and catches others’ attention—people listen. It’s a change of tone and your perspective can be unique. In
FRIENDSHIPS FOR YEARS TO COME
my early years, with clients, I went from being a curiosity to
The transition to Memphis and a new school when she
someone they trusted and whose advice they would follow.”
was 15 years old wasn’t easy, but out of that grew lifelong friendships. “I didn’t know anyone here. I had a big sister,
BRINGING OTHERS UP Like many other professions, Wellford said, mentoring is vital to being a successful attorney. “You learn the law in law school and then you learn how to practice law through practicing, and you need a mentor to be able to do that
Kathie Johnson Alexander ’87, who was assigned to me at Hutchison. She is one of my closest friends to this day. I still see her regularly.” Because she hadn’t had foreign language classes previously and was slightly behind in math when she started
Hutchison | 25
at Hutchison, Wellford studied French and math with the class of 1988. “I keep up with people from both of my classes and others on a regular basis. Some of my closest friends are people whom I’ve been friends with since I started at Hutchison. I treasure those relationships.” She has made Hutchison a philanthropic priority because the school helped her family when they needed it. “When we first moved here, my family had some economic difficulties and Hutchison provided financial aid,” Wellford explained. “My initial giving was motivated to pay back what had been given to me so that those funds would be available for another student to receive a Hutchison education. I continue to give because of my experience at Hutchison and the foundation it gave me for success later in life. I also want to support programs such as the Institute for Responsible Citizenship, as well as other initiatives and enrichment activities that Hutchison offers to empower girls for the future. “I think the transition from a small town to Memphis was a life challenge that taught me many things. I brought those skills to my legal career. In my first 10 years or so while I was in the process of maturing in my profession, I probably didn’t recognize some of the challenges or biases that were out there—I just determined that this is what I was going to do. And I was going to become competent at doing it and this was how I was going to practice law, period. I know that attitude came from both of my parents, who told me from a young age, and encouraged me strongly throughout my life, that ‘you can do whatever you want to do.’ ”
As an attorney, Wellford is well versed in making a case for her clients but realizes the importance of civil discourse— a skill that Hutchison teaches through the Institute for Responsible Citizenship. Left: Wellford and husband Alex attended a dinner at the United States Supreme Court when she was president of the Leo Bearman, Sr. Inn of Court to receive an award recognizing the Inn’s achievements. Inset: Wellford received a certificate of recognition from the Tennessee Supreme Court for her pro bono work from Tennessee Supreme Court Justice Jeffrey Bivins (left) and Chief Justice Holly Kirby. 26 | Hutchison
Hutchison
2024
SAVE THE DATE! FEBRUARY 8, 2024 Be on the lookout for a special delivery in your mailbox!
Who will YOU honor on Giving Day? YOUR gift will have a direct impact on our school and support the many unique reasons why our girls LOVE Hutchison!
Hutchison | 27
As part of our recent security upgrades, we completed construction of a new security center at the main entrance to our campus on Ridgeway Road and added a new security vehicle for our security team. These security enhancements were made possible through generous charitable contributions from parents, grandparents, and friends of the school.
28 | Hutchison
photo by Cathy Barber; inset by Danielle Katz
Hutchison | 29
A L U M N A P R O F I L E | D R . B R I T TA N Y- R A E G R E G O RY R I V E R S ’ 0 8
A Love of Writing E xtends to Public Service by Max Maddock
IT WAS EARLY MARCH 2020, and Brittany-Rae
She believes social media helped to some degree. “I am a
Gregory Rivers ’08, Ph.D., had accepted a new job as the
social media, pop culture kind of person. I feel like that helped
communications director with Next Century Cities (NCC), an
me build up or at least maintain a communications network
organization whose mission is to advocate for broadband
and expand my interests. The pandemic also showed us how
internet connectivity for all communities. By mid-March,
to create intentional community.”
shutdowns began to occur across the nation to help curb
These days, even though Rivers is still able to work
the spread of COVID-19, and many people started working
remotely, she’s happy that people can come together
remotely and using the
when needed. NCC serves
internet to communicate
as a platform between
with family and friends.
local leadership and federal
Before she had started work
agencies, and while some
in earnest, the significance
meetings can be handled
of Rivers’ job had been
as video calls or webinars,
amplified. “It became very
there are times when in-
apparent how critical the
person meetings can’t be
internet was at that point in
replaced, such as when they
the pandemic,” she said.
escort people on visits to
As everyone adjusted to
Capitol Hill to talk with their
“virtual meetings,” Rivers
representatives about why the
and her team continued to
internet is so critical.
help educate mayors and
Rivers majored in
local government officials
English and creative writing
in various communities
at Wellesley College in
about the importance of
Massachusetts and knows
broadband and how their
how a personal story can help
voices could and should help
move the needle when seeking
inform policy.
funding. “A big part of the
She admits it was
work that we do is help people
difficult at first. “The pandemic was a challenge because
tell their stories,” Rivers said. “You can tell people about
before that, relationships were built by seeing people at
numbers, but personal stories help people contextualize
press conferences, meeting up for coffee, or going to happy
what’s happening. For instance, how does being disconnected
hours after work. That was how you built a strong rapport,”
impact a family, their livelihood, or their ability to achieve their
Rivers said. “At first it was such a shock. I was thinking, ‘How
goals?
am I going to be a communications person when I can’t meet
“NCC touts itself as a bipartisan organization,” Rivers
with people in person and have them see my personality and
continued. “We truly try to meet leaders and communities
understand my interests?’ You can only do so much via a
where they are and help them in the way they tell us is best
video conversation, and a lot of people were burned out on
for their community. If they say they want to be heard at
video at the time.”
the national level, then we’re trying to help them get to
Left: photo by Kaveh Sardari
Hutchison | 31
“
My two areas OF RESEARCH ARE CENTERED ON MATERNAL HEALTH AND HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES AND THE ROLE THAT BROADBAND AND DIGITAL SKILLS HAVE IN HELPING TO CONNECT PEOPLE WITHIN THOSE COMMUNITIES.”
the national level, whatever that might look like for their community and in whatever direction that may lead.” Sometimes it’s also as simple as showing how essential
doing. The campus also seemed pretty to me.” Rivers recalled that when she was about six years old, she read the book Harriet the Spy, which she later learned was
the internet can be across the board. “I think there’s a
written by Hutchison alumna Louise Fitzhugh ’46. “The main
misconception that the internet is a wealthy, urban thing, but
character journaled daily about the people and situations that
farmers in very rural areas, for example, need the internet
she encountered, and I started to do the same thing,” Rivers
these days to run their farms.”
recalled. “I have to say that I really came to love storytelling
The pandemic helped to underscore one more key
and its impact while at Hutchison. I often tell people that
benefit of the internet: Rivers, who has twin three-year-old
Mrs. Kelly (Newberry) helped me to become a confident and
sons, managed her pregnancy and the birth of her children
opinionated writer in her Honors English and Heritage classes.
during the pandemic, so she experienced firsthand how vital
This is something that I took with me to Wellesley, and it
the internet was for telehealth appointments and access to
definitely influenced my decision to pursue my passion and
maternal health information. “Much of what I learned about
major in English and creative writing.”
maternal health while being pregnant came from social
Her interest in Wellesley also came about from a Hutchison
media. It helped me understand what kind of questions to
connection. When Rivers started at Hutchison in 2004, she
ask. Telehealth was critical to me having a healthy pregnancy
was introduced to a senior named Sequoia Taylor ’04
and postpartum journey, so it’s something that has become a
who was about to graduate and attend Wellesley College.
passion point of mine in my work.”
“That was the first time I had heard about Wellesley. I
She continues to help advocate for maternal health issues
admired Sequoia and thought she was a good role model.
today. In addition to producing the usual communications
When it came time to apply for college, I thought, ‘Oh, I’ll
tactics such as newsletters, social media posts, news bulletins,
apply to Wellesley because Sequoia goes there. It must be a
and press releases, Rivers said that she is involved with
good place.’ Once I got accepted into Wellesley, they had an
research as well. “My two areas of research are centered on
admitted students day, and I stayed in Sequoia’s dorm with
maternal health and historically black colleges and universities
her. She sold me on Wellesley.” Taylor is now a member of
(HBCUs) and the role that broadband and digital skills have
Hutchison’s Board of Trustees.
in helping to connect people within those communities. Last
At Hutchison, Rivers had a penchant for science, math,
year, I wrote a report specifically looking at the U.S. maternal
and Spanish and originally thought she would pursue a pre-
health crisis and the role that telehealth could play in helping
med track. At Wellesley, though, she became more and more
to address the crisis.”
interested in creative writing, even though she wasn’t sure
A Spark for Writing at an Early Age Even though she considers Tennessee her home state now,
how she would apply that in a career. She also gravitated toward media studies courses and developed an interest in the role that communications plays in shaping popular culture
Rivers’ family moved from Los Angeles to Memphis when
and institutions. “It just seemed to be a more natural fit,” she
she was in fifth grade. She originally attended Snowden in
explained.
Midtown before transferring to Hutchison in the ninth grade. Rivers knew from looking at materials about Hutchison and
Focusing on Public Service
seeing the campus that it was where she wanted to be.
During her junior year, Rivers participated in a Wellesley in
“I remember my dad describing Hutchison as having
Washington fellowship and lived in Washington, D.C., for the
college-style classes,” Rivers explained. “I didn’t know what
summer, working with a Wellesley alum at the Department of
that meant at the time, but I was into academics as a kid, so it
Labor in the public affairs office. “That was the first time that
excited me that I could be doing something that big kids were
I understood what public relations was and realized it was a
32 | Hutchison
route I could pursue post-college. I liked the relationship building and that there were always special events,” she explained. “I was meeting new people every day. Even while working at the Department of Labor, there would be special guests that we’d help escort. There would be an initiative that they were launching. I liked that I was continually building upon the same skills, but there was always something fresh and new to do.” After graduating from Wellesley, Rivers decided to pursue a master’s degree in mass communications at Middle Tennessee State University, where she looked at media depictions of HBCUs. She also worked at a public relations firm in Nashville, which helped her gain confidence in that kind of work. After completing her master’s, she wanted to get back to D.C., so she enrolled in a doctoral program in communications, culture, and media studies at Howard University. “While I was at Howard, I studied the role that communications played in the evolving dynamics between residents and university students in the neighborhood surrounding Howard. After I wrote my dissertation, they started a program of community forums, where students, alumni, and residents could come together to communicate about what they wanted from the neighborhood and how they could best forge relationships with each other.” She also had a unique opportunity while at Howard: she applied for and was accepted as a graduate fellow for the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans. In this role, she was able to combine her background in research and communications to examine what students at all levels of education needed to thrive both inside and outside of the classroom. She said the initiative was about giving students a seat at the table to talk about their needs. “After that summer, I was hooked,” she recalled. “I knew that whether I was in academia or industry post-Ph.D., I wanted to center public service in my career path.” After graduating from Howard and before she started working for NCC, Rivers worked for U.S Congressman Jim Cooper of Tennessee during his last year in office. Rivers credits Hutchison with nurturing her critical thinking skills, which are central to her work these days. “While I was at Hutchison, the school’s tagline was ‘A Girl’s School of Thought.’ This was centered in our coursework and extracurricular activities,” she said. “At Hutchison, it was important to me to always think—to think outside of the box, to think about things from multiple perspectives, and to think ahead. This is something that I took with me, and I continue to apply to my daily life.” photo by Kaveh Sardari
INTRODUCING THE
LAURIE FRASER STANTON LOYALTY SOCIETY To recognize and honor the donors who have demonstrated their commitment and loyalty by giving to Hutchison for 10 or more years, we have established a new loyalty society. The society is named in honor of Laurie Fraser Stanton, the Class of 1965 Ideal Hutchison Girl who went on to serve her alma mater for 50 extraordinary years as a teacher and administrator. Like Laurie, the members of the loyalty society have provided steady and unwavering financial support that has anchored Hutchison for years. In the fall, we inducted more than 1,000 parents, grandparents, alumnae, parents of alumnae, employees, and friends of the school into the Laurie Fraser Stanton Loyalty Society. Among this inaugural class of inductees were 61 faculty and staff. When asked why they invest time, talent, and treasure into Hutchison, here’s what some of our longtime faculty and staff had to say.
Back, L to R: Missy Prewitt, Nikki Wheaton, Caroline Willson, Gretchen Gintz, Lauren Colpitts, Maureen Collins, Jeanie Gibson, Maria Evans, Whitney Miller ’88, Lori Guy, Katharine Kent ’95, Shannon Manzi, Marianna Heimbach, Lane Clanton ’98, Catherine Chubb, Maggie Haire, Mary Aubrey Stafford ’10, Helen Guyton ’05, Melissa Ivy, Bonner Morgan ’12, Cathy Barber, Donna Budynas, Beth Robison ’82, Lynn Erickson, Kenna Chelsoi, Roxie Sharp; Front: Susan Steinkamp, Kelly Parsons, Molly Prewitt ’05, Laurie Fraser Stanton Elliott ’65, Katy Nair, James Ross, Heather Fontana, and Lucy Wesson ’74
I like to put my money where I want to be a part of some“ thing. I want to be part of putting something good in the world, and I believe what Hutchison does for girls is extraordinary.” – Katy Nair | Upper School 34 | Hutchison
LOYALTY
I believe in what we do and the incredible impact we have on the “ lives of these girls. With my own daughter, I saw what you poured into her, how you championed her, and channeled her gifts.” – Lynn Erickson | Early Childhood
I’ve been at Hutchison for 21 years, and I’ve seen how giving to “ the annual fund impacts what we’re able to do through our theater program and the experiences we’re able to create for our girls.” – Jay Rapp | Middle School Arts and Theatre
time/talent/treasure
unwavering support
Joy statue art by Abigail Snow ’17
I’m so thankful to be here at Hutchison. Mr. (Louis) “ Hayden planted a seed in me when he hired me, and I
continue to plant seeds (of generosity), because I know they will lead to something special.” – James Ross | Housekeeping Operations Hutchison | 35
Graduation CLASS
36 | Hutchison
of 2023
photos by Jessica Coulson
Eleanor Merchant, Sarah Bartusch, Isabelle Mansour, Kate Wunderlich, Katie Frazer, Dr. Kristen Ring, Angela Jacobs, Callie Hutton, Ana Hunter, Loralei Forgette, and Sarah Davis McAllister
Top honors for the Class of 2023: Loralei Forgette received Four Years, Top Honors, and Sarah Bartusch received Four Years, Second Honors. There was a three-way tie for Senior Year, Top Honors and a four-way tie for Senior Year, Second Honors. The Senior Year, Top Honors recipients were Sarah Bartusch, Loralei Forgette, and Sarah Davis McAllister. Katie Frazer, Callie Hutton, Angela Jacobs, and Eleanor Merchant received Senior Year, Second Honors. Kate Wunderlich earned the Edward P. Russell Award, given to a senior who through her leadership and devotion to Hutchison’s founding ideals brings honor to herself and the school. Ana Hunter received the Ideal Hutchison Girl Award, which is presented to a senior best representing the ideal woman as described in Proverbs 31. Isabelle Mansour delivered a speech as the Meg Thomas Student Speaker, selected by her classmates.
Kendyl Brown and Dr. Ring
Hannah Good Crowley ’08 directs Vocal Point.
Hutchison | 37
Lilli Eggers, Anna-Margaret Webber, Laura Grace Stafford, Sarah Bartusch, Eleanor Bridgforth, and Kolby Cohen
Nyla Johnson, Zain Amro, and Antonella Lejwa
Shelton Vance, Isabelle Mansour, and Harper Vance
Left to right: Kem Wilson Jr., Norma Wilson, Grey Wilson ’27, Charles Snider, Ava Wilson ’23, Brad Snider, Gaines Snider ’23, Carey Wilson Snider ’91, Kiki Blackney ’35, Bradley Snider, Kem Wilson III, Elizabeth Wilson Pelly ’00, Libby Wilson, Evelyn Blackney ’34, McLean Wilson, Kem Wilson IV, and Katherine Wilson Blackney ’95 38 | Hutchison
Parks Renovich, Gaby Yambrek, Hope Riney ’34, and Ella Woodmansee
Lucy Chiozza and Riley Coopwood
Sophie ’17, Eleanor, and Charlotte ’19 Merchant with their mother, Jenny Tibbs ’83
William, William Jr., Juliet, Byars, and Kimberly Tayloe
Juliet Tayloe, Ellaynakate Angelakis, McCadden Wilbourn, and Margaret Roux
Morgan Nichols and Carissa Williams ’35 Hutchison | 39
Claiborne Collier and McLain Pogue
Alacia Williams and Aleah Smith ’35
Zoe Zerwig Ford
Liza Watson and Emma Abbay
Annabelle Flanders and Calder Trotz
2023
40 | Hutchison
Ashley Frazer and Katie Frazer
Gloria Bird and Claudia Damants
Courtenay McAllister, Sarah Davis McAllister, Bess Bartusch, Sarah Bartusch, Laura Stafford ’93, Laura Grace Stafford, Claiborne Collier, and Ginger Collier
Tilly Marciano ’36 and Laura Grace Stafford
Elizabeth Wilson Pelly ’00
Aggie Muller, Reese Godwin, Mary Faith Sharp, and Angela Jacobs
Sara Byrnes and Sarah Davis McAllister
Eliza Hussey and Lilli Eggers
Mysha Khan ’34, CQ Gintz, and Grace Conway ’34
Katherine DiMento, Eve-Elyse Hall, and Arabella Hall 42 | Hutchison
Emmy Walton and Palmer Smith ’36
Katherine Luter, Aggie Muller, and Liza Watson
Hollywood Evans, Kennedy Adeogba, and Natasha Berry-Evans
Avery Arkle
Mary Johnston and Rivers Malmo ’35
Olivia McCarver and Ellie Berryhill ’34
Zoe Pelts and Ava-Brown Moore ’34
Ellaynakate Angelakis and Mimi Whitehead ’34
Brooke Fair and Taylor Smith ’34
Lily Wilson and Elizabeth Benitone ’35 Hutchison | 43
HUTCHISON 2023 GOLF SCRAMBLE Presenting Sponsor
Hutchison Athletics Director Caroline Schaefer ’08 with Susan Stephenson and Tommy Stephenson
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
BLACK AND GOLD SPONSORS
STING SPONSORS FG3 Construction | Memphis Center for Family and Cosmetic Dentistry | Dobbs Management Service | Bank3 Reynolds, Bone, and Griesbeck | Memphis University School | The Marchant Family | AC Electric | The Marston Group, PLC | Colliers | Shoemaker Financial Grind City Realtor | Duncan Williams Asset Management
FLAG SPONSORS Weiss and Glassell Orthodontics | Greenfield Arena HOLE SPONSORS Zenith Vascular and Fibroid Center | Athens Distributing | Diversified Trust | City Silo Table + Pantry | The Crump Firm Boyle Investment Company IN-KIND SPONSORS
CONGRATULATIONS TO DOUG MARCHANT FOR HIS HOLE-IN-ONE ON #15!
Terri Herrmann, Olivia DeLozier, Jackie Majors, Lida Curlee 44 | Hutchison
Doug Marchant, Dale Jones, Barry Phillips, Jeff Drinan
THE HUTCHISON GOLF SCRAMBLE was held at Chickasaw Country Club on Monday, September 18. Over 125 golfers took to the course to raise funds for Hutchison Athletics. Special thanks to the sponsors, players, and volunteers that made this year’s event a big success.
Congratulations to 18-hole Championship Flight winners Chris Yarbrough, Michael Schaefer, Kittrell Smith, and Eric Beaty.
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 2024 HUTCHISON GOLF SCRAMBLE SEPTEMBER 16, 2024
2023 WINNERS!
9-HOLE Closest to the Pin Nancy Bailey
Longest Drive
Terri Herrmann
Championship Flight 1st Place Barbie Meloni Ginger Owings Stephanie Hayes Carrie Semmes
Congratulations to 9-hole Championship Flight winners Barbie Witte Meloni ’84, Ginger Owings, Carrie Semmes, and Stephanie Fuss Hayes ’82.
Janet Wepfer Leavell ’78, Jeanne Bowen Hollis ’75, Selden Early Popwell ’79, Lisa Burkhalter Mitchum ’75
18-HOLE Championship Flight 1st Place Kittrell Smith Michael Schaefer Chris Yarbrough Eric Beaty
Championship Flight 2nd Place Frank Lequerica Brian Leith Chris Thompson Rob Phillips
First Flight/ 1st Place
Thomas Hussey, David Willmott, Tom Hutton, Mark Zizzman
Tommy Stephenson, Chad Cunningham, JP Zdancewicz, George Stuppy
Andrew Phillips Rob Tayloe Ben Wunderlich Jay Keras
Second Flight/1st Flight/ Place
Dennis Ring Josh Hammond Morgan Hammond Edward Dobbs
Closest to the Pin Phillip Ellis
Longest Drive
Joe Cummings
Putting Contest William Cox Shibahn Singh Rodda ’02, Marie Roberson, Nancy Bailey, Vicki Singh
Michelle Bolton, Kathy Albertine, Jeree Wheat, Ali Sinklular Hutchison | 45
Photo by Paige Miller Photography
THE HUTCHISON TENNIS ROUND ROBIN was held at the Dunavant-Wellford Tennis Center on Monday, October 16. More than 80 tennis players took to the court to raise funds for Hutchison Athletics. Special thanks to the sponsors, players, and volunteers that made this year’s event a big success.
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS PRESENTING SPONSOR
BLACK & GOLD SPONSORS
IN-KIND SPONSORS Overall champion Elizabeth Morrow Carlisle ’06 with Dr. Kristen Ring
COURT SPONSORS
46 | Hutchison
Nancy Welsh Smith ’68 Jim Keras Automotive iBank The Adams Family The Lewis Family The Hammons Investment Group of Raymond James The Mavar Family
The Sherman Family Haygood Realty OrthoSouth First Horizon Bank American Material Handling Wright Construction Company Linda and Gerhard Boehm
Lale Adams and Julie Dunavant
JJ Keras with Dr. Kristen Ring and Phil Chamberlain
Brie Brolin and Sophie Good Edwards ’05
Lindsay Horner Lewis ’99 and Molly Beard
Natalie McClure, Angie Deupree, Lindsay Horner Lewis ’99, Dr. Kristen Ring, Brooke Parker Justice ’04, Raquel Grady, Hattie Rounder
Hutchison | 47
90s Party
A L U M N A E G AT H E R I N G S
McLean Schaeffer Doughtie ’93, Farrar Schaeffer Vaughn ’95, Kristen Ring, Alex Turner ’91, Amanda Eckels Goetze ’94
Laurie Morrison Jackson ’90, Jennifer McCarty-Finkel ’90
Megan Wellford Grinder ’91, Carey Wilson Snider ’91, Whitney Henderson Bricken ’97
Anne Samaha Dunavant ’98, Molly Dorman Flynn ’98
Sonya Brummet Pollard ’91, Alex Turner ’91, Paula Nolley Mitchell ’91
Golden Bees Social
Chris Wright Wilson ’68, Kristen Ring, Brenda Chandler Cooke ’66
Catherine Chubb, Carey Madison Moore ’64
Ole Miss Tailgate
48 | Hutchison
Dale Meanley Lozier ’65, Mary Aubrey Landrum Stafford ’10
Christy Smith Muller ’91, Mary Aubrey Landrum Stafford ’10, Josie Butler ’20, Brooke Grissinger ’20, Bailey Roux ’20, Elizabeth Grinder ’21, Sally Martin ’21, Katherine Redd ’21, Mackenzie Daniel
Young Alums
Back, L to R; Audrey Webster ’09, Shelton Wittenberg ’14, Rebecca Ruleman Mink ’09, Lee Leavell ’09, Rachel Atkins Montague ’09, Sarah Vogelfanger Travis ’09, Neely Leavell ’12, Bonner Williams Morgan ’12, Caroline Hughes Robinson ’12, Jules Jordan ’12, Abigail Snow ’17, Brinkley Raby ’17, Heather Guglietti ’18, Paige Patteson ’19, Kristen Ring, Lucas Crow ’19, Weezie Steffner Pouget ’11, Anna Lane ’11, Kendra Powers ’10, Amelia Brown Williamson ’10, Katherine Hammond ’10, Katy Nair, Mary Aubrey Landrum Stafford ’10; Front, L to R; Lauren Ray Easter ’09, Megan Marchant Dillon ’09, Daria Letcher ’17, Irene Keeney ’19, Meredith Taylor ’10, Stephanie Wharton Stephens ’10, Taylor Williams Ivers ’10
Taylor Williams Ivers ’10, Meredith Taylor ’10, Kendra Powers ’10
Bonner Williams Morgan ’12, Neely Leavell ’12, Shelton Wittenberg ’14
Heather Guglietti ’18, Paige Patteson ’19
Nashville
Back, L to R; Estie Woodall Harris ’79, Kristen Ring, Faith Egedegbe ’22, Talia Morris ’22, Marion McCorkle Bradford ’85, Laurel Scruggs Ditto ’93, Corinne Williams ’17, Elizabeth Coe Wade ’96, Courtney Schaeffer ’17, Mary Catherine Hughes ’10, Caché Truitt ’14, Collyn McHorris Wainwright ’87, Lauren Stallworth Imbrosciano ’05, Catherine Folk Dowdle ’03, Emily Howe Gianis ’09, Ashley Ferguson Waltemath ’94, Kelly Fisher ’78, Julie Ferguson Trapp ’90; Front, L to R; Paula Ilabaca McGowan ’98, Lisa Patton Southard ’76, Adelaide Thornton ’08, Virginia Grayson ’08, Isabella Beyer ’22, Shelley Grayson ’06, Haley Putman Grisanti ’15, Caroline Pollard Lancaster ’17, Ellen Dennis ’07, Shelley Ploch Spainhour ’05, Alessandra Corona Belmonte ’09
Hutchison | 49
ALUMNAE PROFESSIONALLY SPEAKING Sally Hughes Smith ’64 recently had an exhibition of plein-air oil paintings on display at the Dixon Gallery & Gardens in Memphis. It was her 54th one-woman exhibit!
company Edward Jones. After the event, Susan and Penny discovered they are second cousins—their grandfathers were brothers.
Anne Kirkpatrick ’77 was sworn in as the first woman to hold a permanent appointment as the chief of police in New Orleans. She previously served as interim chief, when Mayor LaToya Cantrell appointed her. Prior to her move to New Orleans, Anne was chief of departments in Spokane, Washington, and Oakland, California.
Association. The award is selected by committee and recognizes graduates who have achieved distinction in their particular discipline. Catherine Austin Hook ’99 won the 2023 Nurse Excellence Award in Leadership at the annual nursing celebration at Baptist Memorial Hospital - Memphis. She is a head nurse in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit where she has worked for eight years. Naja Shabazz ’01 started a new job with the Department of the Navy as an Interior Designer.
Susan Springfield and cousin Penny Pennington
Dr. Lisa Stanford ’78 started a new position as Vice Chair in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation for Neuropsychology and Rehabilitation Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Professor of PM&R at the University of Pittsburgh. Susan Springfield ’82, who is senior executive vice president and chief credit officer of First Horizon National Corporation, continues to be recognized as one of the most influential women in banking. She was recently invited to participate on a Women in Banking panel, hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, where they discussed the unique position of being female in finance. The keynote speaker of the event was Penny Pennington, the managing partner of the investment
50 | Hutchison
Amanda Johnson Walker ’91 accepted a position as Chief Operating Officer of Nephrology Associates, serving the renal patients of middle Tennessee and southern Kentucky. Kelly Rodney Arnold ’96 will receive the 2024 College of Medicine Outstanding Alumni Award from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, the most prestigious award given by the Alumni
Molly McDonald Marciano ’02 and her husband, Riccardo, opened Little Italy in June 2023. They say the restaurant is a celebration of the rich cultural exchange between Italy, Memphis, and New York City, which is quite fitting since Molly is from Memphis, Riccardo is from Italy, and the two met while living in NYC.
Molly continues to work as a business development manager in medical aesthetics.
Stephanie Foley Eady ’04 is opening her own law practice in Palm Beach, Florida, focusing on residential and commercial real estate law. Huxley Brown Maury ’04 will start a new job in January 2024 as VP of Human Resources at Mercer Capital in Memphis. Ann Magnus Sneed ’04 is now the Marketing Manager for Tennis Memphis. She is excited for their growth with the opening of the new Leftwich Tennis Center.
Rebekah Hill Tashie ’04 and husband, Scott, opened their restaurant City Silo Table + Pantry in Little Rock, Arkansas, in September. This is their third City Silo location and first outside of Memphis.
surgery to repair a torn labrum in her hip. During her post-operation recovery, she studied for the certification program. She says that fitness has been a great outlet for her since wrapping up her collegiate golf career.
Renee Parker Sekander ’13 is now serving as the executive assistant to new Memphis Mayor Paul Young. She’s been working for candidates across the country for years and now has the honor of working for Memphis’s mayor. She is supporting Young’s transition team to develop action items and recommendations for his first year in office, managing his schedule, and serving as his right hand. Dorothy Oehmler ’14 recently finished her degree in International Theatre Performance and Practice in London. She studied acting, writing, and directing and spent the last year writing Migraine: The Musical, which she successfully showcased as her final project. She plans to stay in London and start work as a dramaturg and script editor, which she says she has been training for since she was at Hutchison when she would help her friends with their scripts. Maeji Brown ’18 is now a certified group fitness instructor. She finished her MBA in May and shortly after had
Mary Demere ’19 works in the communications department for the Memphis Grizzlies. Her responsibilities include helping with press conferences, recording and transcribing interviews with players and coaches, and distributing player stats to media and coaching staff. Irene Keeney ’19 recently joined the Tennessee Shakespeare Company as a Classical Theatre Apprentice.
Emma Nair ’19 recently started as a day-to-day manager in the music industry in Los Angeles. She currently helps manage four artists at Bailey Blues Management.
LET US KNOW ABOUT YOUR WORK Please share your latest professional achievements and news so your fellow classmates will know what you are doing. Send professional news and photos to alumnae@hutchisonschool. org. The deadline for the next magazine is Friday, April 19, 2024.
Hutchison | 51
Miriam Waddell, Mariah Leach, Jimmye Pidgeon ’60, Meah Andrews, Dylan Johnston, Harper Key
Top: Evan Yarbrough, Avery Jones, Lillian Trotter ’60, Cora Winnig, Cecilia Lacher, and Lele Tayloe; above: McKenzie Tapley, Bella Garcia, Morgan Knight, Audriana Hill, and Chance Floyd, with Pamela Van Doren ’64 in front
Bringing Timelines to
Life
Spalding saddle shoes, ballroom dancing, classroom hijinks, and lifelong friendships. Alumnae compare notes with the Class of 2031. The dining room of the Trezevant Manor in Memphis was transformed as the place buzzed with talk of Hutchison. Laughter punctuated the conversations that flowed at seven large, round tables of Hutchison girls—ages 85 to 10. The visiting fifth-grade girls were finally meeting the former Hutchison students who would add real-life anecdotes to the timelines they had studied in social science. 54 | Hutchison
THE CLASS OF 2031 HAD COME TO VISIT with a group of
would go to the drive-in movies or go to a gas station to get snacks.” Reflecting on Pidgeon’s and Trotter’s years of friendship, both Hutchison alumnae who now call Trezevant home, as part of a Harper and Clayden said they can imagine remaining friends with broader effort to meld community service and different research some of their classmates for years to come. techniques as a way to explore the history of Hutchison. Fifth grade science and social science teacher Julie Miller The conversation soon turned to popular after-school activities, said the time spent at Trezevant was an excellent opportunity friendships, cafeteria options, and the pros and cons of uniforms. to bring their social science coursework to life. Relating their The girls came prepared to pepper the residents with questions. personal experiences to what they are studying makes history more Hutchison School became the common denominator for two memorable. vastly different eras. “We’ve done a lot of work with timelines. Hollis Ligon, middle The fifth graders couldn’t get enough of the stories about school assistant head, made a timeline of the school with the girls Spalding saddle shoes (always with bobby socks), ballroom to give them some background as far as when the school dancing on Fridays (most girls did not enjoy it), limited began, what was going on at the time when these cafeteria menus (nothing like the choices the girls ladies would have been in school, and how have today), and Saturday School (Jimmye much had changed,” said Miller. confesses she was a regular). Knowing that their middle school “Some of them went to school was the first building on the Ridgeway during World War II!” recalled Campus gives the fifth graders a Harper Ladd ’31, who was still in awe special connection to the alumnae. four weeks after the visit. Stories of Miller says comparing school life Jimmye’s forays to Saturday School across generations helps the girls also left an impression. understand the passage of time in a “They asked all kinds of tangible way. It’s interesting for them questions, and I tried to answer all to think that they attend classes in of them,” said Jimmye Pidgeon ’60. the same location where these older Her transparency included sharing the generations attended. story of how a group of girls in that class “We talk about that a lot … how the locked a teacher in a closet and paid the campus has grown and that, at one time, this price with a stint in Saturday School. “I got a D was such a rural area and now it is an urban area. In in conduct for that. Other girls, the ones who actually Vicki Weber ’61, surrounded by social science and geography, we discuss how much locked the door, received an F,” she said. Her audience Sophia Hammond, Henley Oates, Louise Phillips, Grace Tayloe, and things change in what is a relatively short amount of listened, wide-eyed, some of them more intrigued about Molly Kate Hopping time,” said Miller. what it meant to get a letter grade for conduct. “What Other changes are not so overt. is conduct?” they asked, trying to wrap their heads “One interesting fact about Ms. Jimmye is that she was the first around what is a foreign concept in today’s classrooms. woman at the company she worked for to be successful at selling And so it went. How many girls were in your class? What was something that was unusual for a woman to sell,” said Clayden. the Ridgeway campus like when you first got here? Did you have “Actually, I was in industrial sales and I was either first uniforms? What were your classes like? or second in sales all the time,” said Pidgeon, who sold large “They were very smart girls, I was impressed with them. They construction equipment at her father’s company, Pidgeon-Thomas were very attentive, very interested in what I had to say,” said Iron Company. When the decision was made to bring in someone Lillian Trotter ’60, who has been friends with Jimmye Pidgeon else to be in charge of that division, it did not sit well with her. “It since kindergarten. “They would come back to speak to me again. made me so mad! I got in my car and drove over to my father’s They remembered that story about how we locked the teacher in house. And I said, ‘That’s not fair. I’m always either first or second. the closet,” Trotter laughed, explaining that it was actually a small You can’t bring in somebody from out of town who doesn’t know room between two classrooms, and the pranksters just locked the anybody here.’ He said, ‘Well, Jimmye, you’re a woman.’ ” door on one side.” Societal norms change and time marches on. But Hutchison “One of the questions that my group asked was, ‘What did you like bonds prevail, for Hutchison girls young and old. to do after school?’” said Clayden Young ’31. “They told us that they
Societal norms change and time marches on. But Hutchison bonds prevail, for Hutchison girls young and old.. Hutchison | 55
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Save the date and start making travel plans!
ALUMNAE UMNAE WEEKEND 2024 20 Celebrating 100+ years of friendships! Friday & Saturday, April 12 & 13
Return to your alma mater this spring and reconnect with classmates, former teachers, and Hutchison friends. All alumnae are welcome with a special emphasis on reunion years ending in 4 and 9. For more information or to connect with your class reunion reps, please email alumnae@hutchisonschool.org.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you in 2024!
