2021 True Blue Magazine - Summer Issue by Jackson Academy

JACKSON ACADEMY

SUMMER 2021 | VOLUME XXIV

A Publication for Jackson Academy Alumni, Families, and Friends

CONTENTS

State of the School F E AT U R E S

IN THIS ISSUE

Lowerys Find Home in JA’s Family

NEWS AND STORIES

FEATURES

ATHLETICS

ARTS

STUDENTS IN ACTION

SCHOLARS

TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

CLASS OF 2021

LIFERS

SCHOLARSHIPS

JAA AND BOOSTER CLUB

GIVING

CLASS NOTES

MEMORIALS

HONORARIUMS

Student Entrepreneurs Sweeten, Brighten Life with Businesses

ON THE COVER: Revealed during 2020-21, the new Raiderman is a popular figure on campus. Here, he is joined by Accents Caroline Bennett and Amelia Dare Bowman. TRUE BLUE 1

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

JACKSON ACADEMY

SUMMER 2021 | VOLUME XXIV

EDITOR/WRITER

Patti Wade

Director of Marketing and Communication C R E AT I V E

Jonathan Blackwell Graphic Designer

PHOTOGRAPHER/WRITER

Rachel Lies

Interactive Media Coordinator CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS/WRITERS

Stability with a Growth Mindset It is an exciting time to be at JA. Summer downtime has been balanced with momentum to prepare for the 2021-22 school year. Excitement has built as JA welcomed new leaders, Head of School Palmer Kennedy and Head of Upper School Brandi Richardson. While preparing this message, I reviewed my editor’s letters since joining JA in 2013. The subject of one particular editor’s note on change struck me. It included this quote by Harvard Kennedy Institute of Politics Fellow Pauline R. Kezer: “Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights.” The reference to roots reminded me of a framed Aspen leaf given to me as a gift during a church retreat. The Aspen tree is considered one of the most substantial trees. At the root, it unites with other Aspen trees to multiply its strength while its branches stretch upward in colorful beauty. Even though each tree displays its singular beauty, the tree is not alone. It thrives within an elaborate support system. There is hardly a better way to describe the posture of Jackson Academy right now. The educational principles that have stood the test of time keep JA steadfast. These roots, united in JA’s mission, are robust. Yet, forward-thinking energy propels the school to reach new heights, preparing students for individual lives of purpose and significance in whatever their future holds. The content of this issue of True Blue attests to the collaborative spirit that brings about an Aspen-like stability with a growth mindset. Read about students as they test themselves, stretch into an untried territory, and find their purpose and significance for the life ahead. It’s our pleasure to share their stories and more with you. We wish you a blessed year ahead in which you enjoy continuity and growth in the new school year. Patti Wade Director of Marketing and Communication pwade@jacksonacademy.org 2 TRUE BLUE

Jonathan Blackwell Catherine Burford ’17 Frances Bussey Lisa Bynum Nell Floyd Martha Grace Gray Rachel Lies Chris Parent Robert Smith Richard Stafford Suzanne Thigpen Chris Todd Patti Wade Jim Wilkirson Robert Wilson O F F I C E O F A D VA N C E M E N T

Jim Wilkirson

Chief Advancement Officer

Suzanne Thigpen

Director of Annual Fund

Frances Bussey

Director of Alumni Relations True Blue, a semiannual publication, is published by the Jackson Academy Office of Marketing and Communication and the Office of Advancement. Jackson Academy 4908 Ridgewood Road Jackson, MS 39211 If you have alumni news you would like to share, visit jacksonacademy.org/classnotes to submit or update your information. Submissions may also be mailed to the above address or emailed to Frances Bussey at fbussey@jacksonacademy.org. All photos submitted should be of high quality.

A LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

WITHIN OUR NURTURING AND SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY, JACKSON ACADEMY INSPIRES AND EQUIPS EACH STUDENT TO LEAD A LIFE OF PURPOSE AND SIGNIFICANCE.

Dear Jackson Academy family, First of all - thank you! Thank you for the warm welcome to the Kennedy family and your continued trust in our amazing school. While Karen and I feel special, I am quickly learning that this warmth and support is simply the JA way. As I have walked the campus and witnessed many activities going on, I see a spirit of love and support for our JA students and the thousands of visitors who attend events here. Jackson Academy is a beacon of excellence that extends well beyond our campus and the immediate Jackson community. I am enjoying visiting science labs and attending Fine Arts events and ballgames. Along with the entire JA team, I am honored to get to know your children. I am excited about fostering a culture with our faculty and staff based on missioncentered goals so we may push each other to be our best. We are indeed poised for some incredible things this year and in years to come. While I am not eager to make changes, changes will and should inevitably happen. Habits keep us comfortable in what we do, but sometimes habits may hinder us from doing things we need to be doing. Aristotle taught about the value of establishing habits of excellence and how self-study and constant review could lead to the discovery of opportunities. This ancient truth is still relevant today. Our Lord expects us to develop good habits and to use our gifts to improve ourselves - and in turn, help others do the same. With our Lord’s help, we purpose to do just that. Each of us is blessed daily to serve those in our charge as we foster and bring to life JA’s mission. If you have not read the mission statement lately, please pause and do so. It is central to all we do. We are a student- and mission-centered school. Whether a child is age 3 or 18, our students must know we love them, want the best for them, and look forward to their fulfillment of JA’s mission in their lives. I hope you and your family are getting settled into the new school year. Energy and enthusiasm abound on this campus. JA is a happening place. God bless - and remember you cannot tell your children you love them or hug them enough. They may think you can, but it’s never enough! Thank you again for your support. Go Raiders!

Palmer Kennedy TRUE BLUE 3

JAC K S ON AC A DE M Y

STATE of the SCHOOL

4 TRUE BLUE

S TAT E O F T H E S C H O O L

Palmer Kennedy Begins as Head of School Jackson Academy welcomed new Head of School Palmer Kennedy in June. Kennedy and his wife, Karen, relocated to Jackson this summer, joining the Jackson community from Birmingham, Alabama, where Kennedy served as headmaster at Advent Episcopal School. Kennedy has spent time in the summer months meeting JA families, working with faculty and staff, connecting with students and alumni, and reviewing school operations. Regarding operations, Kennedy sees strength in JA’s budget and enrollment despite the recent challenges of the pandemic. “There are a lot of independent schools struggling,” Kennedy said. “JA at this point is not one of those schools. Our enrollment is strong. It is strong because we have a wonderful program. It is strong because of our faculty, and it is strong because of the heritage JA has. While COVID-19 has been a challenge, it has helped us come together as a community and be able to demonstrate what we do well.” ........................................................................................................................................................................................

Admissions Growth Director of Admission Kayla Mosal sees some of the same trends mentioned by Palmer Kennedy as she works with new families. JA has experienced growth in new students during the pandemic; in particular, the Preschool (grades K3 and K4) saw a significant increase. Mosal says the school is “super fortunate” to have been able to offer inperson learning the entire 2020-21 year. She believes that success with in-person learning caught the attention of prospective families. “Prospective families saw how JA handled the pandemic, seeing that we had effective technology in place. Our Apple Certified teachers stepped into virtual learning in the spring of 2020 and then returned to inperson learning for the entire 2020-21 school year,” said Mosal. New families shared with Mosal that they had not seen a school do a better job than JA had. ........................................................................................................................................................................................

SOAR Outdoor Restart The Ray Higgins SOAR program, which honors the long-time JA coach and educator who is now retired, is under the leadership of Thomas Wayne “WT” Taylor, Ph.D. He will continue to expand the program that JA alumni know and love, offering challenging outdoor experiences modeled after the outdoors programs at state universities throughout the South. SOAR Outdoor includes hiking, horseback riding, camping, wilderness backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, and ropes courses with zip lines. Students can receive training to become leaders in the program, particularly in the new low ropes course installed this past year at Ashleigh Park, adjacent to the Raider Park athletic complex. TRUE BLUE 5

S TAT E O F T H E S C H O O L

Undergirding infrastructure enhancements, program development, and room for growth is a robust capital campaign plan with a campaign goal of $4.45 million and a vision goal of $6.45 million. Feedback from the JA community, working in conjunction with the education development partner, the JFSmith Group, guided the two-phase plan. Phase I will provide funds to construct new Upper School science and lab facilities and renovate existing labs. Reaching the Phase II vision goal of $6.45 million will enable JA to extend lab renovations throughout campus, create classroom space, and centralize divisional offices, counseling, and testing spaces. New construction will open up existing facilities so that signature programming, such as Raider Network and SOAR Outdoor, can shift into renovated facilities. If additional funds are raised beyond these goals, JA's master plan envisions a new competition gymnasium. This future addition would create a multipurpose student center that faces JA's main entrance. The new building and renovated areas would feature flexible indoor and outdoor spaces designed for lectures, activities, and events. The entire master plan gives JA's north campus a more cohesive feel. JA announced during its season-opening football game that the campaign had reached $3.62 million. School leadership is working with Dean and Dean/Associates Architects, PA, to complete final plans for the new science labs and Upper School addition in the fall of 2021.

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Capital Campaign Underway

The completion of the $6.45 million vision goal will yield a series of state-of-the-art science labs across the campus and additional classroom, activity, and event space.

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HONORARY CAMPAIGN CHAIRS Pat and Peter Jernberg CAMPAIGN CO-CHAIRS Janna and Will ’03 Lampton Geri Beth and Allen Smith BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2021-22 Robert Hederman ’90, Chairman McKie Edmonson ’94, Treasurer George Butler, Secretary Scott Pedigo ’90, Past Chairman Mysti Chustz ’96 Angie Haraway ’96 Dr. Reid Lester ’94 Jeffrey Lohmeier ’96 Kristen Nations ’95 Brad Reeves ’97 Dr. Brad Williams TRUSTEE EMERITI Philip Bowman ’86 Dr. Ed Kennedy John England Randy James Walter Weems PRESIDENT EMERITUS J. Peter Jernberg, Jr.

S TAT E O F T H E S C H O O L

When JA’s total master plan goal of $10.78 million is reached, new structures and renovated spaces will expand JA’s north-facing facilities, presenting a cohesive and welcoming entryway onto campus.

Donor List as of August 15, 2021 Ashley and John Adcock Angie and Brad Antici Catherine and Peter Arnold Cindy Bailey Ashley ’94 and Gabe Baldwin Marsha and Haley Barbour Amy and Cliff Bates Stacy ’89 and Chris Bates Beth and Jonathan Blackwell Lana and Guy ’95 Boyll Rex Bradshaw Lauren and Maury ’98 Breazeale Debbie and Mike Brister Marie and Josh Brooks Bronwyn ’83 and Chris Burford Leah and Darin Busby Amy and Bill Bush Courtney ’95 and Jason Bush Frances and John ’06 Bussey Leigh ’89 and George Butler Ann Boswell Carlson ’03 Catherine Carter Nancy and William Cheney Katie and Jamie ’92 Chustz Cori Ciaccio Sarah Clark ’00 Dennis Conklin Abbie Cox Amanda and Myles Cross Nan Dear Courtney and Walt Denton Melissa Denson Carrie Ann Eatherly

Jennifer and McKie ’94 Edmonson Susan Elliott Gail and John England Harriett and Mark Eppes Cyndi ’92 and Bryan Eubank Ashlee and Ed Flechas Rebecca and Parker Fowler Patricia Frazier Mimi and Andrew ’07 Heard Mallory Gnemi Lee Ann and Brad Griffin Katrice and Jeff Hadley Jennifer and Rowland Hall Carny and Mike Harkins Debra Hastings Amy and Robert ’90 Hederman Avery Hederman ’19 Jane and Mark Hinkle Josh Hinkle ’15 Gloria and Stephen Hirn Highland Village (Community Partner) Neely Holland Susan and Thomas Ingram Abby and Benjamin ’04 James Hillary ’00 and Chesley ’99 James Lindsey and Matt ’95 James Paula and Randy James Pat and Peter Jernberg Michelle and Greg ’91 Johnston Colleen Jones Karen and Palmer Kennedy Robin and Ed Kennedy Betsy King

Lynn Ladner Janna and Will ’03 Lampton Lauren and Reid ’94 Lester Laurie Lewis Stancie Ley Sarah Love Hayley and John Lundy Kristin and Patrick Malouf Rosanne and Joe Maxwell Jennifer and Chris ’93 Mathison Evan McCarley Sandra and Mike McKay Jennifer and Robert Miller Joy Miller Michelle Mills Lynda Morse Beth Murray Suzanne ’91 and John ’83 Murray Jan ’89 and Wen Nance Kristen ’95 and Lee ’93 Nations Erin and Max ’06 Neely Wanda and Randy Pearcy Lulu and Scott ’90 Pedigo Sydney and Christian Pinnen Spencer Jones Pittman Paula and Paul Pratt Mandy and Brad ’97 Reeves Christy Richardson Colleen and Stan Roberts Mandy and Ray Robertson Castlen King Rogers Ronnie Rogers Kerri Sanders

Jeanne ’93 and John ’92 Scarbrough Tina Shaw Scarlet and Darrington Seward Grace Simmons Lori Snider Jan Sojourner Sissy and Greg Spence Geri Beth and Allen Smith Cathy Strauss Brenda Sullivan Bebe and John Sumner Nancy and David Sykes Mamie Taylor Lee Ann and Calvin ’94 Thigpen Suzanne and Tate ’88 Thigpen Meredith ’89 and Joel Travelstead Ana Tucker Chris Tucker Pam and Jon Turner Patti Wade Jennifer and Brandt Walker Meri Scott and Hank ’09 Waterer Lynn and Ben Waton Susan Whitfield LaDonna Whitney Bonnie and Gray Wiggers Ashley ’87 and Mark Willson Jamie Wright Audrey and Jim Wilkirson Mary Carolyn ’95 and Brad Williams Patrice and John Worley

TRUE BLUE 7

NEWS AND STORIES

JA Graduate Co-Authors Journal Article During Senior Year GLAKE HILL ’21 RECEIVED TWO HONORS EXPERIENCED BY COLLEGE UNDERGRADUATE OR GRADUATE STUDENTS MORE OFTEN THAN BY HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS. During an internship in Jackson State University’s chemistry department, Glake participated in research under Professor Paresh Ray. His work led to a scientific journal co-authorship and an award-winning conference presentation. “I got connected to the internship by my parents,” Glake said. His father, Dr. Glake Hill, Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of Chemistry, Physics, and Atmospheric Sciences at Jackson State University, and his mother, Dr. Shonda Allen-Hill, is the associate director of JSU’s Center for Computational Chemistry. Having grown up in a science-minded family, Glake loves to explore the world through science’s lens. He will attend Tougaloo College and either follow in his parents’ footsteps or pursue a degree in finance. The opportunity to learn more about chemistry and presentation skills drew Glake to participate in the JSU internship, which awarded college credit. He was one of four high school students included in the program. Glake said his responsibility was “to research ways to create clean water for places that don’t have any by finding a specific particle that could break down harmful pollutants.” He found himself well prepared for the rigors of research and laboratory work, noting that, “the teachers at JA helped hone my writing skills in order for me to properly contribute to the science journal.” 8 TRUE BLUE

The peer-reviewed journal article, “Development of Human Host Defense Antimicrobial Peptide-Conjugated Biochar Nanocomposites for Combating Broad-Spectrum Superbugs,” was published October 30, 2020, in the American Chemical Society's journal, ACS Applied Bio Materials. The article dealt with timely topics like infectious diseases, multidrug-resistant superbugs, and the design of broad-spectrum anti-superbug biomaterials. In November, Glake presented research at the 27th International Conference on Current Trends in Computational Chemistry and won third place in the college undergraduate category. There was no high school category available. His topic and poster presentation were titled, “Magnesium and Nitrogen Co-Doped Carbon Dots as a Fluorescent Probe for Selective Detection of Cobalt Ion.” Besides the thrill of competing with college students from across the country, Glake’s third-place win included a cash prize, a book award from the scientific publisher, Springer, and a certificate of achievement. Glake said that the most valuable parts of the internship were presenting the project before scientists and getting third place in the process. The audience included noted people in the scientific community, including book authors. “Being a published co-author feels like a pretty big accomplishment,” he said.

TOGETHER at JA Cherished Buddy Programs Cultivate Friendships Despite Pandemic Sharing one campus means so much to the JA family. Special programs such as Alpha and Omega and Book Buddies exist because children study within walking distance of one another. Each year, the Alpha and Omega program pairs seniors with a kindergarten student. The students meet periodically for the remainder of the year to talk, read books together, share snacks, and play games. In Book Buddies, sixth graders interview first graders several times during the school year and write and illustrate a book about them. Full of imagination, these books become precious keepsakes. Both programs enrich students’ lives

with friendship and fond memories. When COVID-19 changed everything, it altered these cherished JA traditions. Instead of being together for the first Alpha and Omega meeting, the kindergarteners ate snacks in their classrooms and watched a video created by the seniors. As everyone adjusted to the new normal, teachers and administrators planned a safe way for the students to gather. Initially, Head of Lower School Sarah Love observed, “The most challenging part was figuring out how to help them get to know each other since they had to stay socially distanced and wear masks.” Mallory Gnemi, who teaches English in the Middle School and organizes the Book Buddies program, agreed. “We normally do handson activities like cup-stacking that help break the ice for the buddies in September, but we were unable to host that,” Gnemi said. “It wasn’t the same.” Despite the challenges, the teachers and students found it well worth the effort to continue the programs. “After everything the kids have gone through and had to do without in the past year, this was something we weren’t willing to give up,” Gnemi said. “Seeing the

smiles on all the buddies’ faces when they gave and received their books made all the hard work worth it.” The students relished spending time together and seeing the world from their buddies’ perspective. “My favorite memory from Alpha and Omega was the pizza and games picnic on the football field,” said Lila Robertson, ’21. “My buddy and I both like to sing, so we sang songs and just ran around and blew bubbles, and it felt like being a kid again.” Bryant Seago, ’21, described the value of the program when he said, “Alpha and Omega is one of those things that you look forward to growing up here at JA. It’s something that means so much to the little kids and means even more to the seniors.” TRUE BLUE 9

NEWS AND STORIES

JA’s Beloved Outdoor Program Expands Students and alumni who have experienced Jackson Academy’s signature rafting, hiking, and other outdoor adventures frequently recall them as a highlight of their time at JA. Continuing the memorable work of previous leaders in the Ray Higgins SOAR program is WT Taylor, Ph.D., who joined JA as the SOAR Outdoor director in 2020. Taylor will build upon the existing SOAR initiative, modeling his work after the outdoors programs at state universities throughout the South. He plans to foster student leaders to assist in planning and executing trips, empowering students to step into leadership roles or jobs in outdoor adventure. A recent addition to SOAR Outdoor is a low ropes course at Ashleigh Park, adjacent to JA’s multi-sport complex, Raider Park. Installation of the 12-element system was completed in the spring; it is the first phase of an anticipated larger ropes course installation. Safely maneuvering through a spider’s web, navigating a log bridge over imaginary molten lava, or swinging 10 TRUE BLUE

like a ship’s bosun are not everyday experiences. These scenarios help participants face challenges as a team. Taylor says there is no “I” in these scenarios; working as a team, groups sharpen their communication, problem-solving, trust, and strategic thinking skills. “The ropes course is fun and a great way to meet others and to help students grow as individuals and as a group,” said Taylor. Middle School literature teacher Castlen King Rogers, who helped during one of the courses, said she saw a willingness to experiment. “I think what impressed me most was how enthusiastic the students were about helping one another and trying new things,” she said. “Of the six groups that rotated through the elements at our station, no two groups approached the challenges the same, but all of the groups met with success. When something didn’t work, the students would come up with another plan and try again. That kind of grit and collaboration will serve them well in many areas.”

Students had this advice for those experiencing the new ropes course at Ashleigh Park:

“

Be encouraging, trustworthy, safe, and have tons of fun.” - Ellen Morgan

“

ave an open mind, H try it, and don’t be afraid to fall.” - Sydney Horton

“

I would also tell people who want to experience the ropes course that they should definitely go and bring some friends! It is so much fun, especially when you get to spend the time hanging out!” - Caroline Flechas

Black History Month Celebrated Throughout Campus Black History Month presents an invitation to educate and celebrate. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Jackson Academy would invite performers to campus such as New Stage Theatre’s education director Sharon Miles or Jackson State University’s MADDRAMA troupe (Making A Difference Doing Respectable And Meaningful Art). The pandemic prevented such performances during 2020-2021 but created an opportunity to delve deeper into Black history through classroom study.

Preschool Storybooks are important for many reasons, and one of those reasons is the opportunity to intentionally feature the incredible variety of people God made. During the month of February, classroom teachers highlighted stories that featured Black children and adults overcoming fears, enjoying celebrations, and making the world a better place. During library time, preschoolers heard books about civil rights, focusing on biographies and fictional stories such as “The Other Side” by Jacqueline Woodson.

Lower School Teachers read aloud about people such as Jackie Robinson, Katherine Johnson, Martin Luther King Jr., and other famous African Americans. Fourth grade students researched famous Black people. Teacher Abbie Cox said that through their extensive research, students saw over and over the conditions and racism that Black people suffered throughout history. Additionally, they witness the drive, perseverance, and heart that allowed these men and women to endure and succeed. “They see their many accomplishments and God-given gifts that have made our world a better place,” she said.

Middle School On Fridays, Middle School students dove into Black History Month studies. In eighth grade literature, they began with an overview of history, starting in 1619 when the first slave ship arrived in the American colonies. Next, the students read several non-fiction documents, including autobiographies, historical documents, and an account of Brown v. Board of Education, the trial that ended legal segregation in public schools. Individually, students selected historical or modern-day Black leaders, artists, innovators, or athletes to research and present to their classmates.

Upper School Each morning during February, Upper School announcements featured a moment of reflection drawn from Black history. During a chapel service, Marcus Harris shared the poem, “Too Black,” based on a poem by the same name that Marcus altered in collaboration with his mother to highlight his unique experience. Upper School Chemistry Teacher Richard West then shared his story of growing up in Mississippi. Students listened as their beloved teacher described learning in school that Black people were either slaves or maids and watching the KKK burn a cross in his grandmother’s front yard. West then posed four questions to his listeners: Who am I? Why am I here? What’s wrong with this world? How do we fix it? He answered each question with scripture and ended his message by reading from 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, which describes what real love looks like in a person’s life. West received a standing ovation. TRUE BLUE 11

NEWS AND STORIES

LEADERS BEGIN ROLES in UPPER and MIDDLE SCHOOLS

through 12 educator and school leader Brandi Richardson joined the Jackson Academy staff as head of Upper School this summer. From Grand Bay, Alabama, Richardson was most recently the Upper School director at Cottage Hill Christian Academy in Mobile. Her other secondary and higher education roles include teaching AP History and Spanish at St. Luke’s Episcopal School in Mobile, serving as department chair at St. Luke’s, and instructing courses in world and U.S. history at Coastal Alabama Community College. “I look forward to working with students, faculty, and families as we seek to lead students in discovering their purpose in life,” said Richardson. “I’m thrilled to be a part of the leadership team serving the JA community!” The Middle School leadership team working with Head of School Palmer Kennedy includes two interim appointments of current staff members. Associate Head of School and Academic Dean Matt Morgan is serving as interim head of Middle School while continuing the current position that he has held since 2018. Morgan previously led

JA’s Middle School for five years. During his 17 years at JA, he also served two years in an administrative role under Head of Lower School Sarah Love and as a Spanish teacher and football coach. “I am looking forward to teaming up with Palmer Kennedy on our entire academic program and with Brandt Walker as we lead the Middle School,” said Morgan. Brandt Walker will assume a new position as interim associate head of Middle School while serving as associate athletic director. Walker was appointed associate athletic director in 2017 and has also served JA as head coach of the track teams, the cross country team, and varsity and junior high football roles. Walker came to JA with 14 years of coaching experience, including a decade of coaching football and track. “The opportunity to work with Matt Morgan and the Middle School faculty and to continue to advance our academic and athletic programming makes me very excited about the 2021-22 school year,” said Walker. “It is going to be a great year to be a Raider!”

To read more about these leaders, visit: JACKSONACADEMY.ORG/UPPER-SCHOOL-LEADERSHIP and JACKSONACADEMY.ORG/MIDDLE-SCHOOL-LEADERSHIP 12 TRUE BLUE

NEWS AND STORIES

POGUE AND WALKER LEADING ATHLETIC PROGRAM

2020-2021 MAIS Athletic Highlights Accents

STATE CHAMPIONS State Runner Up (Pom Division)

Boys Soccer STATE CHAMPIONS

Boys Tennis State Runner Up

ackson Academy’s athletic program leaders anticipate a year of great competition and great opportunities. Lance Pogue is serving as interim athletic director, overseeing the administration of the school’s athletic programs. He will continue as varsity head football coach, which he held during the 2020-21 school year. Before that, he served JA for three years as the team’s defensive coordinator. “Our goal is to be distinctive in all sports at JA, providing students the best experience possible no matter the sport they choose. As a coaching staff, our No. 1 goal is to have the best interests of the kids in mind,” said Pogue. During his career, Pogue has led acclaimed programs as the head football coach and athletic director at Eupora High School from 1998 to 2007 and South Panola High School from 2007 to 2016. Pogue is the only high school coach in Mississippi who holds a National Championship title. He was the USA Today National Coach of the Year in 2010. Brandt Walker will continue to serve with Pogue as associate athletic director. Appointed associate athletic director in 2017, Walker has served JA as head coach of the track and cross country teams. He also has had roles with varsity and junior high football. Walker came to JA with 14 years of coaching experience, including a decade of coaching football and track. Both Pogue and Walker are committed to an athletic program that creates a positive experience for students and makes it possible for them to participate in multiple sports if they choose.

Varsity Cheer

STATE CHAMPIONS State Runner Up (Tumbling Division)

Varsity Football State Runner Up

Girls Basketball STATE CHAMPIONS

Girls Soccer State Runner Up

Girls Tennis STATE CHAMPIONS

Golf

STATE CHAMPIONS

Volleyball STATE CHAMPIONS

TRUE BLUE 13

NEWS AND STORIES

Outdoor Venue Adds to Meaningful Graduation Ceremony W

earing navy blue robes and matching mortarboards with white stoles, the Jackson Academy Class of 2021 processed into the Brickyard on campus as the traditional graduation march, “Pomp and Circumstance,” played. JA held graduation outdoors at the Brickyard for the first time in 2020 as a precaution to guard against the spread of COVID-19. However, the school community’s response to the location prompted JA to repeat the outdoor 14 TRUE BLUE

ceremony this year on May 7, making its way to becoming a tradition, said Jim Wilkirson, chief advancement officer at JA. “Everybody has a special memory of that field whether it has to do with sports, the end-of-year field day, or the mentoring event where K5 youngsters are paired with seniors,” he said. During the ceremony, each soon-to-begraduate occupied a blue chair spaced 10 feet apart and spread across the

football field, making it easy for parents and friends seated in the stadium to see the student they came to support. “We had everyone spaced out last year because of the pandemic, but we arranged it like that again this year because it provides for better photo opportunities and makes it easier for parents and friends to locate individual graduates,” Wilkirson said. Thoughtful details for the occasion included one that calls for a graduate’s

stole to be embroidered with the initials and graduation years of any immediate family members who are JA graduates. “It’s a way of honoring a family’s legacy to the school,” Wilkirson said. Lifers, students who attend JA from kindergarten through twelfth grade, wore a special medallion. The Class of 2021 included 67 Lifers. A drone flew overhead to capture the scene for the Raider Network, which

live-streamed the event so anyone unable to attend in person could watch it over an electronic device. The JumboTron, which would usually share football scores, showed a slide for each class member that featured a senior portrait, a list of high school accomplishments, and the college or university graduates selected to attend. The valedictorian, salutatorian, and officers of the senior class led the ceremony. “We do that purposefully

because we want graduation to be about the seniors,” Wilkirson said. The outdoor venue provided graduates the opportunity for the traditional toss of mortarboards, which an indoor venue does not allow. The 116 graduates, JA’s newest alumni, carried the school colors and banner out, and the faculty followed behind them, recessing to “The Hymn of Joy,” which is better known as “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee.” TRUE BLUE 15

F E AT U R E S

LOWERYS

FIND HOME IN JA’s

FAMILY

boy named Parker gets into a scuffle and takes a hit to the head. After experiencing memory loss from the injury, Parker’s memories return to him little by little. Parker is the main character in rising seventh-grader Keigon Lowery’s upcoming book. In this second literary endeavor, Keigon has written a fictional play that explores character building and second chances. Parker is “learning how to be a better person,” says Keigon. The book Restart that he read during literature class inspired Keigon to create a second-chance protagonist. Little by little also could describe how Keigon has found solace and healing since his mother’s death in his presence shortly before he turned 4. His dad, Bobby Lowery, a satellite radio disc jockey and producer, worked to find sources of support during what he says was a rough season. In the ensuing years, a community of supporters enveloped Keigon, helping his dad create an uplifting environment to encourage Keigon to be the best person he could be. Keigon’s writing journey was a crucial part of that. Lowery had encouraged his young son to journal one paragraph a day to express his feelings. These journal entries became the basis for his first book. The summer before entering fifth grade, Keigon released My Dad & Me, which Keigon says chronicles positive moments as he adapted to life without his mother. JA teachers volunteered to proofread his writing. A local illustrator turned Keigon’s character descriptions into art for a nominal fee. A designer in Belgium that the Lowerys met through Instagram supported the Lowerys by digitizing the illustrations. Dillard’s department store sponsored the self-published book. New York City radio personality, DJ Self, still promotes Keigon’s work on his show. Along with direct support for his writing, Keigon also benefited from being in a school environment where a kid can be a kid, says his father. The JA community has been a source of comfort, of practical boots-on-the-ground kind of counseling for Keigon. In his art classes, Keigon could express his feelings; during band, he could shine, and in 16 TRUE BLUE

F E AT U R E S

football and basketball, he found the camaraderie of a team. In his favorite academic class, English, his teachers have actively supported his authorship. Then fourth grade teacher and now Associate Head of Lower School Sandra Triplett ’09 edited his first book. Sixth grade English teacher Mallory Gnemi is currently editing Keigon’s second book, which Gnemi says is in the form of a play. “I feel like I have been his editor on many projects this year. He would have me proof his essays for other classes, his emails, and now this play.” Gnemi said. “I am honored to be asked to help him, and he usually does not need much editing! I am even more honored to have gotten to know Keigon and his dad this year.”

“WHEN YOU FEEL AT HOME, IT EASES YOUR SOUL. YOU CAN GO TO THE BEST PLACES IN THE WORLD, BUT NOTHING IS LIKE HOME. JA FEELS LIKE HOME.” - BOBBY LOWERY, KEIGON’S FATHER

Gnemi also sees progress in Keigon’s writing. “Keigon is an excellent student. He pushes himself harder than I (or his dad) ever could,” Gnemi said. “He wrote excellent journal entries and was always asking about ideas for his next book. Compared to his last book, readers can see his growth, maturity, and ability to change up his writing - that is a huge talent for any author to possess.” His teacher’s positive approach motivates Keigon to learn subjects and predicates, dependent and independent clauses, and prepositional phrases, to name a few. “Mrs. Gnemi makes it fun. It’s not just work, work, work,” Keigon said. “If you get it wrong, it’s ok. If you get it right, you might get rewarded.” One of his favorite rewards is blue raspberry Jolly Ranchers. Keigon also excels beyond the classroom. “It has been great having him as a student,” said Jeremey Burnham, who taught Keigon in sixth grade band. “He has a tremendous natural talent for percussion. He was very mature for his age and always asked questions about what he was doing to make sure he was doing things correctly. He always strived for perfection and had a strong determination to work on certain

tasks until he got it right. I am excited to see what the future has in store for him.” Band Director Todd Taylor raves about what Keigon, named Outstanding Beginner Band Percussionist, brings to performances. “If you missed him at the Band Spring Concert, you missed a show,” said Taylor. “The way that he played the tympani during the percussion ensemble was a show stopper. He ‘owned’ the part and sold it with all the style and attitude of a mature musician. We are looking forward to seeing how far he will go!” Keigon, who is entering his fourth year at JA, has found that the environment helps him be his best. “When you are young, you like to play a lot, and they let you have your fun, but you have to do your work. If you don’t do your work, then you are not going to pass. And everyone wants to pass.” Keigon’s dad says their JA experience has been outstanding. Lowery values the qualities he sees in JA: that kids are equal and play together, academics are challenging, relationship building is a priority, manners matter, and people have compassion for one another. Lowery said it is as if the JA community was saying to them: “It is going to be OK. We are here for you.” Keigon uses holiday breaks and the summer to work on his writing and other times when he has downtime. He prefers to write in his room. No TV. Just quietness. Later in life, Keigon says he can imagine how writing might have a role in his future. For now, he is looking forward to football practice and seventh grade. And one new experience of seventh grade: lockers. TRUE BLUE 17

Student Entrepreneurs Sweeten, Brighten Life with Businesses When stay-at-home orders went into effect last spring, #Distractibaking quickly became a trending hashtag and a defining moment in 2021 graduate Ari Jackson’s journey as a businesswoman. “I found I kept myself sane through baking,” Ari said. At the beginning of her senior year at JA, Ari launched Ari Mae Bakes after perfecting a range of 18 TRUE BLUE

delicious products and planning out a business model with support from family and friends. Meanwhile, three hours north in Desoto County and not yet enrolled at JA, junior Madison Fairley also found herself inspired to launch into business. The budding entrepreneur

joined the JA community in January of 2021 after her family moved to Jackson. “During April of 2020, I stumbled upon a few graphic design businesses on Instagram who were doing graphics and making money off of them during quarantine,” Madison recalled. She now creates digital art by drawing lettering and portraits.

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me to make Mrs. Pearcy’s birthday cake, and Ms. Ley asked me to make multiple cookies for her family events. It makes me happy to know that I have teachers who support me in the classroom and outside in what I want to do, even if it has nothing to do with math and trigonometry.”

Surrounded by supportive friends , Madison and Ari display their work.

“My parents were super supportive of my ideas and have supported me the whole way,” Madison said. “They are always looking for ways to help my business with new products and ideas!” Her sister Lauren, a senior at JA, provided photography to show off photo presets Madison developed and sells. Her mother suggested different sweatshirts and bags Madison could have her designs printed on, and her father dropped products in the mail for shipping. With an aunt and grandmother who were both bakers, Ari also benefited from a strong network of advisers to help her develop her business model. “At the beginning, I didn’t take a deposit, and I learned my lesson because three people canceled on me after I started,” Ari said. “I value my time, and I want people to realize what I put into my work.” She now requires a deposit and is considering placing limits on how many orders she will accept. For Valentine’s Day 2021, she set a goal of selling ten boxes of cookies but received 20 orders! These young entrepreneurs also learned valuable skills such as social media marketing, company branding, customer ser vice, and budget management as they promoted their

“I moved to JA over this past winter break, and the community has been nothing but amazing!” Madison said. “I have had multiple people buy from me, follow my page, compliment me, or share my posts, which helps me greatly!” Upper School Physical Science Teacher Stancie Ley even offered to introduce Madison to her daughter, Kristen Ley ’03, the owner, founder, and creative director of design company Thimblepress.

“ I think that JA is such a supportive campus. In anything I’ve ever done, my best friends have supported me, and my teachers have supported me.” work. Madison shares her work on Instagram at @MadzNCompany, and Ari runs her business through @arimaebakes on the same platform. Both also have pages on Facebook. Through social media, Madison sells her digital products to anyone in the world who finds her online, and Ari sends targeted ads to people seeking baked treats in the Jackson area. Both girls say their best proponent lives a little closer to home: “My mom is the biggest advocate,” Ari said as Madison nodded in agreement. A core group of friends and family who spread the word supports each student’s business ventures, including fellow JA students and faculty. “I think that JA is such a supportive campus,” Ari shared. “In anything I’ve ever done, my best friends have supported me, and my teachers have supported me. Miss Smithers asked

With so much support behind both of their businesses, Ari and Madison look forward to continuing to create. This fall, Ari began studies in finance at Loyola University in New Orleans and hopes to use baking as a sidehustle throughout college and run a bakery someday. Madison plans to continue her business throughout high school. “Where I go to college and what my schedule would look like will determine if I continue or not after that,” she said. “Using my graphic design knowledge and practice, I would love to be a graphic designer or social media manager for a sorority or the university in college!” As each student navigates the remainder of their educational journey, their journey as businesswomen has already prepared them with skills they can use long into the future - whether to turn a profit or inspire a smile! TRUE BLUE 19

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BOYS SOCCER TRIUMPHS WITH CHAMPIONSHIP WIN

Emery Thigpen, who was named Mississippi Soccer Gatorade Player of the Year in 2021, lifts the championship trophy while the team celebrates its victory.

ACKSON ACADEMY’S BOYS SOCCER TEAM ENDED ONE OF THE LONGEST STATE CHAMPIONSHIP STREAKS IN MISSISSIPPI HISTORY THIS PAST YEAR AND EARNED THEIR FIRST STATE TITLE UNDER SECOND-YEAR COACH PHILLIP BUFFINGTON.

JA ended Jackson Prep’s 10-year reign as MAIS division champions with a 6-3 victory for the Raiders’ first state title since 2010. “We had the goal of winning a championship the last two years with what we hoped was going to be a team that could finally break Prep’s remarkable streak,” Buffington 20 TRUE BLUE

said. “Coming up short in last year’s championship in overtime showed the boys we had the quality to win but needed something more than just ability to win a championship. We learned a lot about that game and ourselves. This year’s group set out with a fire not matched by many with their goal of winning a championship, and we finally got over that mountain.”

JA finished with an 18-4-1 record, 13-1 against MAIS teams, losing only to Prep 1-0 at Prep. JA had been in the state title game for the past three seasons before taking the title this past year. As a player, Buffington led Prep to four straight state titles. Buffington, who is considered one of the top boys players

Photos by Chris Todd (left, lower right) and Robert Smith (upper right)

to ever play soccer in Mississippi, set the Mississippi record with 61 goals his senior season at Prep in 2005. He played one year at Marshall then three years at Mississippi College. He played three years of pro soccer, two in the United States and one in Australia. He has been coaching club soccer with the Mississippi Fire, now Mississippi Rush, since 2012 and was head coach at Manchester Academy in Yazoo City from 2013-2016 before coming to JA in the fall of 2016.

“Our biggest strength was the impeccable senior leadership we had on the team in Emery Thigpen and Drew Antici (the only seniors in the starting lineup),” Buffington said. “Emery was our on-the-field coach and knew how to motivate his teammates when needed and lift our level when we needed it. Drew was our more silent leader and stand-out defender leading by passion to never quit at any moment. “We had a very big and influential junior and sophomore class that we

are extremely excited to have return next year who created and scored a lot of the goals we produced this year,” Buffington said. “The returning players still have that burning desire to build on last year and hopefully be able to repeat as champions in 2022.” The other starters were juniors Andrew Burks, Marcus Harris, Will Rhodes, Samuel Hadley, J.Q. Morgan, Reed Travelstead, and Banks McNair, and sophomores Andrew Harrison and Win Hooker. TRUE BLUE 21

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Photo by Chris Todd

Volleyball Continues MAIS Dominance Jackson Academy remained the dominant volleyball program in the MAIS this past year as the Lady Raiders won their second straight state championship and their sixth in the past seven seasons. Led by two-time Mississippi Gatorade Player of the Year and Louisiana State University beach volleyball signee 22 TRUE BLUE

Parker Bracken, JA finished the season with a 29-4 record. The team defeated Hartfield Academy for the title with a four-set victory at Mississippi College in Clinton. It was the fourth straight year the two teams had met in the state title game. In 2019, JA finished with a 43-3 record, winning its last 18 matches. The Lady

Raiders defeated Hartfield in the state title match that year, avenging the team’s loss to Hartfield in 2018. Hartfield’s win in 2018 ended JA’s four-year state title run and four-year unbeaten streak against MAIS teams. “I think my girls emotionally grew more last season than they have the entire time I’ve been at JA,” Head

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Volleyball Coach Melissa Denson said. “They chose to focus on the things they could control and handled the adversity better than I ever would have at their age. Winning the state championship with this group of seniors was something special. The legacy they paved at JA will be seen within our program for years to come. As much as I love to win, I love to watch my players grow into strong, confident women. Our school did a phenomenal job ensuring our girls had a chance to play for another title. The year 2020 is one we will never forget.” Not only did JA defend its title, but the Lady Raiders also managed to deal with COVID-19 to complete their season. “The season was emotional from the beginning with every day not being promised due to COVID-19,” Denson said. “Every day it felt like we were holding our breath that no one would get sick. Despite being extremely cautious, cleaning everything in the gym, and trying to avoid unnecessary contact, our team still got COVID-19. We all had to quarantine and move around several conference games. A few of us felt really bad, and coming back was a challenge. It took a long time to build our stamina back up.”

Parker Bracken Leaves Mark on JA Athletics

Winning the championship over Hartfield was a great way to end the season.

The 5-foot-10 athlete led JA to a 29-4 record as a senior and defeated Hartfield Academy for the second straight season for the title. As a junior, she led the Lady Raiders to a 43-3 record, winning the last 18 matches.

“We knew it wouldn’t be easy and that we had to be resilient,” Denson said. “Both teams fought the entire match and never gave up. We capitalized on the right moments and focused on trying to stay in the moment and better each ball. The key moment in the match was winning the second set after losing the first set. We showed a lot of grit, and we handled the adversity well.” Parker Bracken, senior Natalie DeRusso, juniors Remy Jones and Anna Claire Sheffield, sophomore Ava Ladner, and freshmen Emma Robertson were the starters for the majority of the season. Seniors Gracie Coe, Pryor Mehrle, and Madeleine Pettus were key contributors off the bench.

Parker Bracken might be the most successful athlete in Jackson Academy history. If the volleyball star isn’t, it doesn’t take long to call the roll. Parker is a two-time Mississippi Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year and helped lead JA to five MAIS state volleyball championships in six years.

Parker, who signed with Louisiana State University to play beach volleyball, is ranked as the No. 1 player in Mississippi and the No. 107 player in the nation by prepvolleyball.com. She is Mississippi’s alltime leader with 2,494 kills. Parker is the second JA volleyball player to win Mississippi Gatorade Player of the Year. Conley Chinn, now playing basketball for Belmont University in Tennessee, won in 2016. Parker is one of four JA athletes to win a Mississippi Gatorade Player of the Year title. Curt Knight won the boys cross country award twice, in 2014 and 2015. Emery Thigpen won in soccer in 2021. TRUE BLUE 23

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ATHLETIC SIGNINGS In the 2020-2021 academic year, Jackson Academy celebrated the athletic accomplishments and collegiate commitments of 12 student-athletes. During individual and shared signing events throughout the year, these students officially committed to play college sports as friends, family, coaches, and Alpha and Omega buddies celebrated.

Parker Bracken Parker Bracken signed to play beach volleyball at Louisiana State University, where she will compete as a D-1 athlete. Parker lettered in volleyball and track and was a cheerleader. She is the Mississippi all-time volleyball leader in kills with a total of 2,494. She holds the Mississippi Player of the Year title with Maxpreps, Prepvolleyball. com, the MAIS, and earned the distinction twice from the Gatorade Company. She was named the Wendy’s Heisman nominee for JA.

Jackson Conn Jackson Conn committed to Mississippi State University’s baseball program. Jackson lettered in baseball and football and is a Preseason Perfect Game All American, a Preseason Under Armor All American, and was invited to play in the 2020 Area Code Games this past summer. At the plate, he finished with a .253 average with seven extra-base hits and 22 RBIs. He was second on the team in wins (5) and first in strikeouts (79) with a 3.42 ERA on the mound.

Mikey Elinski Mikey Elinski signed to play soccer at Holmes Community College in Ridgeland. Mikey played varsity soccer at JA ninth through twelfth grade. He also played varsity football and ran track for the Raiders. During his senior year, Mikey contributed three goals, 16 shots, and one assist to the Raiders, aiding the team’s advance and ultimate state championship win. He went on to represent JA in the 2021 MAIS AllStar soccer team.

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Brendan Gibson Brendan Gibson signed to play football with Belhaven University. Brendan triumphed on the gridiron, basketball court, and track during his high school career at JA. He accomplished 87 career tackles in football, 78 during his junior year, one interception, 43 all-purpose yards, and two receptions. In track and field, Brendan won second place in the varsity state triple jump his sophomore year. He earned Most Improved and Best Defense honors in basketball. After a severe knee injury, Brendan proved his grit through months of physical therapy. He played the 2020-2021 basketball season with the Raiders.

Elena Roberts Elena Roberts signed to play tennis at Mississippi College as the No. 4 ranked tennis recruit in the state. As of January 2021, Elena ranked in the top 400 tennis players of the nation. On the tennis court, she won five team championships and was a three-time individual champion. With Lady Raiders basketball, she was a member of two 5A state champion basketball teams.

Emma Roberts Emma Roberts signed to play tennis at Mississippi College as the No. 1 tennis recruit in the state and, as of January of 2021, was ranked No. 79 in the nation. She was a five-time team champion as well as a four-time individual champion in tennis. Emma competed in the 25K Challenger at River Hills twice, was on the MaxPreps First Team Tennis, and one of three representatives and MVP for Mississippi in the Southern Cup Tennis Championship. She was also a member of two 5A state champion basketball teams and was a 2020 state 5A all-tournament team member. TRUE BLUE 25

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Parker Ryan Parker Ryan signed to play baseball with Pearl River Community College. Parker is a multi-sport athlete who lettered on the varsity baseball, football, and track teams. He was selected to the All-MAIS Team and the All-Conference 1st Team in baseball. He was ranked the No. 1 catcher in Mississippi by Perfect Game and named to the Perfect Game All-Tournament Team and All American Team. Parker finished his final season with the Raiders with a .318 batting average, 18 doubles, eight triples, and one home run. He also drove in 44 runs and scored 63 times while swiping 43 stolen bases.

Deion Smith Deion Smith committed to play football at Louisiana State University after playing three football seasons at Provine High and his senior season at Jackson Academy. Deion was ranked the No. 1 player in Mississippi and one of the top ten receivers in the country. He was also ranked as the 65th-best overall prospect nationally in the 247 Sports composite ranking. As a junior, he caught 43 passes for 1,059 yards and 19 touchdowns and was named wide receiver to the Mississippi 5A All-State First-Team. As a senior, he caught 36 passes for 640 yards and seven touchdowns and added another 189 rushing yards and two TDs to go with a 69-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

McKinna Smith McKinna Smith signed with Northwest Community College’s Rangers women’s basketball team. McKinna played varsity basketball since ninth grade, starting her career at Copiah Academy. She transferred to Jackson Academy at the beginning of her senior year. McKinna averaged 15 points, five rebounds, and two steals per game on the court and scored over 1,000 points, 275 rebounds, and 138 steals. McKinna was named Varsity Second-Team All-District in ninth grade, MAIS 4A Division 2 All-State First Team in tenth grade, and All MAIS Class 5A All-State All-Tournament Team in eleventh grade.

Branson Tadlock Branson Tadlock signed to play baseball with Jones College. A multisport athlete, Branson played football, basketball, and baseball. In baseball, he was a five-year varsity starter and a three-time All-District player. During his senior season, Branson threw 22.2 innings and had one save with an ERA of 1.54. He also collected 28 strikeouts and walked 14 batters.

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Donovan Veasley Donovan Veasley signed to play football with Holmes Community College. Donovan excelled at JA throughout his career. He had a successful sophomore season where he started as a linebacker for the Raiders and led the team with 126 tackles. Entering his junior year, he sustained a severe knee injury that ended his season. Following months of physical therapy, Donovan returned for his senior year and helped lead the Raiders to the State Championship game in November 2020. He led the team with 110 tackles and eight fumble recoveries. Donovan was selected for several post-season awards: First-team All-Conference linebacker; MAIS All-Star Football Team; and Defensive MVP in the All-Star game.

Lardarius Webb Lardarius Webb, son of Superbowl champion and Baltimore Ravens star Lardarius Webb Sr., signed to play football with Jones College. Ladarius transferred to Jackson Academy from Opelika, Alabama, during the summer before his senior year of high school to become one of the top players in Mississippi. During his season at JA, Lardarius had 58 total tackles, 41 of which were solo. He also had five tackles for loss, nine pass breakups, one interception, one blocked field goal, and one reception of 40 yards for a touchdown.

Save These Dates Mark your calendars to join us for these on-campus events during the upcoming 2021-2022 academic year.

 Middle School  Upper School Grandparents Night Grandparents Night at the Brickyard at the Brickyard September 30, 2021 October 1, 2021

sports_football Homecoming

October 29, 2021

 Alumni Reunion Weekend April 1-2, 2022

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Set Crew THE UNSEEN HEROES of the Performing World

magine crawling under risers to gather a lost costume piece while dancers tap above you or having a prop break on stage and determining how to retrieve it before the next scene. These challenges, and more, are the life of a set crew member. Dressed in black and working behind the scenes at most every performance of Jackson Academy’s show choirs and its theatre productions, set crew members play a vital role in each performance. Crew members help construct sets and props, assist with shifting scenery during performances, manage actors, run lights and sound, operate the fly system, and execute makeup designs for JA’s fall musical, spring play, and competition one-acts, said JA’s Director of Theatre Arts Kerri Sanders. For JA’s high school show choir, Encore, crew members must load and unload a moving truck filled with the set, assemble the physical pieces of the set before the show, and be able 28 TRUE BLUE

to move it all in an efficient manner on and off the stage during competitions. The crew also works with JA’s junior high school choir, Showtime. “Sets are dangerous if the crew is not prepared, so many hours of practice are necessary,” said Director of Choral Music Amy Whittenton. Rising junior Kathleen Thigpen, a crew member for the school’s fall musicals, has helped strike stage props and assist with costume changes. “One of the most memorable costume changes I have helped with involved getting the lead male out of a wedding dress, which was incredibly difficult to take off, and then getting him dressed within the duration of the first few seconds of a song so he could go on about halfway through that same song for his scene,” she said. “We ended up with three people struggling to get him out of the wedding dress and we barely got him out of it in time.”

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“ I love that it is a way for people who aren’t necessarily fond of being on stage to have a way to be involved in the arts.” Rising junior Samuel Long, crew captain for Encore and Showtime, helped design lighting for each show choir’s performances for the last three years. He’s learned lessons that are more than just about lighting. “The thing I have learned by participating in crew is that not everything always goes according to plan and you must be willing to compromise where you can and think very quickly,” he said. “Another skill I learned during crew is trusting other people to help the team move quickly and efficiently.” Campbell Duease, also a rising junior, values the opportunity to make friends while being part of theatre productions. “Set crew is full of a diverse group of people who are easy to get along with,” said Duease. Maysa Vivians ’21 shies away from being in the spotlight, and that’s why being a crew member for Encore and the school theater productions was a good fit for her.

“Being on set crew helps foster collaboration,” she said. “I love that it is a way for people who aren’t necessarily fond of being on stage to have a way to be involved in the arts.” Both Sanders and Whittenton believe students behind stage learn to accept responsibility, to work both independently and together, and to handle the unexpected. “From sewing up split pants backstage to sprinting to a dressing room to retrieve a forgotten prop mid-scene to sliding onstage with a towel to clean up spilled water during a scene change, crew members must always be on their toes,” Sanders said. “Most recently during Twelfth Night, our statue of St. Francis toppled off its pedestal and shattered. Stage manager Maysa Vivians acted quickly, retrieving a broom from the scene shop. I instructed two of our actors to take the broom on stage, in character, of course, and sweep up the mess to avoid injuries during later scenes. In the moment, these mishaps do not afford us time to laugh, but after, we are able to appreciate our quick thinking.”

Mamma Mia Named Best Stage Play in 2021 The Jackson Academy Theatre Department was honored in February when its production of Mamma Mia was selected as Jackson’s Best Stage Play by the Jackson Free Press. A romantic comedy, the musical is based on songs of the 1970s pop group ABBA. Director of Theatre Arts Kerri Sanders commended the students for producing a successful and safe musical during the fall of 2020. While learning dialogue, lyrics, and dance routines, they adhered to many new standards of operation. Students followed guidelines for the safe operation of a show, such as rehearsing in masks, having temperature checks, and performing to an auditorium that was at 25 percent capacity. Mamma Mia was selected among finalists that included New Stage Theatre, Fondren Theatre Workshop, and Black Hat Shows. TRUE BLUE 29

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BLOOM WHERE YOU’RE PLANTED Upper School Students, First Graders, and Kindergartners Create Mural to Brighten Cottage Deck

the Jackson Academy kindergarten cottage’s deck, a plain white wall provided the canvas for a new collaborative art installation. 30 TRUE BLUE

K i nde rga r te n- si z e d ha ndpr i nt f lowers now grow there. Upper School art students contributed to the project, creating connections across generations of Raiders. It all started

when Sarah Love, head of the Lower School, saw potential. “Last year, Mrs. Love wanted to do something colorful and meaningful

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on the blank white wall,” said Bebe Sumner, who teaches kindergarten at JA. The teachers turned to Upper School Art Teacher Susan Ingram for advice on making their vision a reality. Ingram recruited several of her students and equipped them with latex paint and a plan. “My students painted the grass and f lower stems in two 8-foot sections to represent last year’s K5 and this year’s K5,” Ingram said.

the wall. Teachers and students worked together to press each handprint onto the wall firmly, and when they peeled their hands away, the children laughed with delight or gazed curiously at what they had done. The first graders also added their handprints to the wall, having been the first kindergarten class to study in the cottage. All of them were contributing to the first portion of this long-term art project.

Jenna Daly ’21 and seniors Natalie Tur ner a nd A nna lee Le Duf f volunteered, each adding their unique artistic touch to the mural. “As I’m going to be in college soon, it means a lot to me knowing that I made my mark on a small part of JA, literally,” said Annalee. “It’s also exciting to know future classes will contribute to this sweet tradition.”

Over the years, the project will grow, gradually brightening the space as each successive kindergarten class adds their hand-painted f lowers to the wall after Upper School students paint stems and grass. “Each little hand placed on the wall will be remembered

as a child that was loved and taught at our great school for many years to come. Hopefully, these children will come back to JA, place their adult hand on their kindergarten hand, and feel the love from the past,” Sumner said. “These girls started a project that many will adore for years to come.”

After the paint dried, the kindergarten teachers helped their students shape the flowers that now adorn the stems painted by the Upper School students. Students took turns having their hands painted, and with gooey pigment oozing across their palms, walked to

Senior Wins National Gold Medal in Scholastic Art Kaylee Ashford ’21 became the first JA student to win a national Gold Medal in the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition. Kaylee’s sculpture “Hero” earned a Gold Key in the initial, state-level competition. National awards were announced on March 17, with less than 2,000 of the 80,000 contestants receiving medals. Kaylee is one of three students from Mississippi to earn this distinction in the 2020-2021 competition. TRUE BLUE 31

Sowing Seeds of JOY Upper School Show Choir Shares Talents at The Mustard Seed On a bright April day, members of Jackson Academy’s award-winning Upper School show choir, Encore, arrived at The Mustard Seed. Located 8.6 miles from JA’s campus, The Mustard Seed is a nonprofit organization founded in 1981 to meet the spiritual, physical, emotional, and intellectual needs of “Seedsters” through residential and day programs. One way the program meets those needs is through fun events, like a live performance by Encore! Chora l Music Director A my Whittenton ’12 has volunteered at The Mustard Seed and is pen pals with one of the Seedsters. Bringing Encore to perform there was an opportunity for her to show students the value of

serving others through their God-given gifts. “My students were each given the gift of performing,” Whittenton said. “This is one way that we chose to serve others using that gift.” While the Seedsters watched from the shade, the students stood on the warm cement of the parking lot and launched their performance. Moving through powerful choreography, they sang their competition pieces from the year, all of which feature affirming messages. The Seedsters beamed, clapping their hands and nodding their heads to the music, and when Whittenton invited the audience to join the show choir in performing the final song, many enthusiastically accepted the invitation. “My most fond memory is teaching a Seedster how to swing dance with me! Her giggles and the smile on her face when I spun her around were truly touching,” said senior Olivia Quin. Fellow senior Pariss Smoot also found dancing with the Seedsters to be a heartwarming experience, saying, “We had so much fun, I forgot the choreography.” As a competitive group, Encore does not share the stage. They own it. Rehearsals begin in August to learn choreography and perfect each

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movement before the competition season starts in January. Giving a show at The Mustard Seed turned that dynamic inside out. “We were not only allowed but encouraged to take our minds off of perfect choreography and vocals and solely have fun,” Anna Carlisle Nichols, also a senior, shared. “For the first time, we were given an opportunity to solely make others happy with our performance rather than make ourselves happy by winning a trophy, which was super rewarding.” “It is easy to forget that music has an intrinsic value -- it does not need to be scored to have worth,” Whittenton summarized. “Sharing it with others outside of the competitive atmosphere reminded each of my students of this simple fact. It allowed them to see in a tangible and meaningful way just how beautifully music can unite all people.”

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Show Choir Accolades Encore Jackson Prep Show Choir Masters Grand Champion ` Best Overall Performer ` Madison Lampley Solo Competition 1st Place ` Gretchen Morris Solo Competition 2nd Place ` Gibson Cheney

Madison Central Deep South Classic 2nd Place in Large Division ` 1st Runner Up Overall ` Best Vocals ` Best Set Crew ` Solo Competition 1st Place ` Gretchen Morris

Showtime Jackson Prep Show Choir Masters First Overall ` Best Visuals ` Solo Competition 2nd Place ` Jack Rosamond

Madison Central Deep South Classic 3rd Place Middle School Large ` Division Solo Competition 1st Place ` Rebekah Brooke Benson

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

etter Days by Goo Goo Dolls B Born Bold by Valley of Wolves Got It In You by Banners Undefeated by Jason Derulo B reak Free by Ariana Grande Made of Stone by Gentri

SHOWTIME

ENCORE

SHOW CHOIR SUMMER PLAYLIST 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.

iddle of a Moment by Pasek/Paul M Me Without You by Toby Mac Never Alone by Jesse Bonanno Make it Last Forever by Avalon Fire by Gavin Degraw

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STUDENTS

GRASP THE

BATON Budding Musicians Challenged to Lead in New Way

aving a stick in time to music. How hard can it be? JA students learned just how challenging conducting is when Band Director Todd Taylor handed over the baton and invited them to lead their peers through a piece of music. To a casual observer, a conductor might look comical as they gesture, but to a musician, every flick of the conductor’s wrist sends instructions for each breath and muscle movement they make. Taylor chose to allow his students to conduct after remembering an opportunity given to him in high school and as a parting gift to senior Rosemary Caldwell. Rosemary will study music education at the University of Alabama this fall. “By putting her in front of the concert band ensemble, it showed her how strong her instrumental skills really are and gave her a taste of the power of the baton,” Taylor said. For Rosemary, conducting an instrumental arrangement of Skyfall opened her eyes to the complexity of wielding the baton. “I noticed that conducting takes a lot of preparation

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ARTS

and practice,” she said. “It isn’t just standing and waving your arms to the beat. There is so much more to it than that, and I know I don’t even know yet what real conducting entails.” Charlie Earl, Kendrick “KD” Davis, and Addie Elliott also tried their hand at conducting. Charlie is a senior, and the experience bolstered his interest in studying music in college. “I have always thought about pursuing a career in music but conducting a band made me want to consider it more,” he said. “I have started looking at colleges that have a good music program.” Rosemary had already made her college decision when the opportunity to conduct arose. “The experience was an exciting sneak peek into my career choice as a music teacher,” Rosemary said. “I was so thrilled to have a chance to experience conducting for the first time in the comfort of my home band hall. It was a little bit nerve-racking, but I think that was a good thing to learn from as well.” Students who participate in band learn life lessons in diligence, teamwork, observation, and listening to others; they also become a tight-knit group of friends. When Rosemary, Charlie, KD, and Addie led their peers through sight-reading new music, that support was evident. The band answered each f lick of the baton, and the music sounded phenomenal.

Addie Elliott Competes with 2021 Lions Band In the spring of 2021, rising sophomore Addie Elliott auditioned and earned a place in the 2021 Mississippi Lions All-State Band, which travels internationally each summer for competition. Addie joined other musicians from across Mississippi as they represented the state and their school. TRUE BLUE 35

STUDENTS IN ACTION

SPORTS & COMMUNITY SPIRIT Five JA Athletes Receive Recognition for Community Service through “I Am Sport” Nomination

It takes a lot of hard work and perseverance to become a successful athlete. And it takes compassion and consideration to become a successful community leader. Five 2021 graduates are well on their way to achieving both. Hudson Bridges, Elena Roberts, Emma Roberts, Alex Summerford, and Alice Williams were nominated during their senior year for USA Today’s “I Am Sport” award, the largest high school sports recognition program in the country. While athletic ability is an important factor for the nomination, community service is also taken into consideration. In a virtual ceremony this summer, Women's National Basketball League member, Imani McGee-Stafford announced that JA's Alice Williams was Mississippi's winner.

Alice Williams | 2021 “I Am Sport” Winner Outside of JA, Alice Williams is actively involved with the Girl Scouts of the USA. She has earned bronze and silver star awards for her community service with both Community Place in downtown Jackson and by tutoring children at Canopy Children’s Solutions. Alice is currently working toward her gold star award by teaching the importance of dental hygiene to students in the Rankin County School District. A member of Christ United Methodist Church, she serves as a discipleship group student leader, Vacation Bible School leader, and works two times a month in the youth department. Alice was a varsity cheerleader and had been a member of JA’s swim team since first grade.

Hudson Bridges As an athlete, Hudson was a member of the JA football team. Off the field, he demonstrates his heart for others through countless hours of volunteer work. Hudson earned the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America and was voted by his peers for the Order of the Arrow award, which is awarded to a scout who best exemplifies the ideals of the Boy Scouts. Over the years Hudson has volunteered with many organizations. For his Eagle Scout project, he built a shed and worktables for Sunnybrook Children’s Home. During the flood of 2020, Hudson joined forces with the Salvation Army to aid flood victims. In addition, Hudson has regularly served meals to the homeless through Stewpot’s Community Kitchen and is involved with Habitat for Humanity, which builds houses for families in need. Hudson has also spent hours serving the McLean Fletcher Center, which provides grief support for children and teens, and The Mustard Seed, a community for adults with developmental disabilities.

Elena Roberts The main characteristic of a disciple is to show a love for others. Elena Roberts demonstrates this through her role as a discipleship group student leader at Christ United Methodist. She actively serves on a weekly basis to ensure that the younger students she comes in contact with have a role model with a strong basis of faith. Elena led JA’s varsity tennis team as one of its captains. She also played on the varsity basketball team and was a member of the cross country team. 36 TRUE BLUE

STUDENTS IN ACTION

Emma Roberts Emma Roberts is helping to build the next generation of young followers of Christ through her position as a discipleship group student leader at her church, Christ United Methodist. This role allows her to directly impact younger students by serving as a role model and mentoring them weekly in their spiritual and personal growth. At JA, Emma was a multi-sport athlete, participating in cross country, basketball, and tennis. Emma led JA’s varsity tennis team as one of its captains.

Alex Summerford God calls each Christian to spread the news of the gospel far and wide. Alex Summerford has managed to contribute to this on a global scale through mission trips to Honduras. Locally, he touches the lives of young students through his role as a discipleship group student leader at Christ United Methodist Church. Alex represented Jackson Academy at the Madison County Business League & Foundation Youth Leadership Class, which encourages its participants to better their community. He also served as a retreat leader at the JA Retreat, making a significant impact on a group of students through spiritual and personal development. Alex has earned the rank of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America, which represents an expansion of leadership and life skills, personal growth, and community service. While working toward his Eagle Scout designation, Alex volunteered with the McLean Fletcher Center, an organization that provides support for children, teens, and their families grieving the death of a loved one. Alex was a member of the JA varsity football team, soccer team, and baseball team, lettering in all three sports.

JA Band Volunteers at First Locally Hosted Junior Wheelchair Basketball Tournament In April, Jackson Academy was the site of the first-ever junior division basketball tournament by the National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA). The NWBA varsity division is for teenagers with lower limb disabilities. Teams from Texas, Georgia, and Alabama competed in the tournament, along with Mississippi’s own home team, the WheelCats, based out of Clinton. For Band Director Todd Taylor, hosting the tournament was a cause that’s near to him. Taylor’s son, Toby, has played on the team since middle school. “The organization has been great because [Toby] has been able to interact

with middle schoolers, high schoolers, and even adults in chairs,” Taylor explained. The family has traveled to Kentucky, Alabama, and Georgia to compete. However, Taylor really wanted to host a game locally so Toby’s family and school friends could attend.

watching the game that much more enjoyable,” KD said, who is JA’s drum major for next season. It was his first time volunteering for a wheelchair basketball tournament. “It was just an enjoyable time overall.”

This year, JA was given the green light to host a two-day tournament in two of the school’s wheelchair-accessible gyms. Taylor also recruited band members and parents to volunteer during the games, including KD Davis, a junior, who kept the scoreboard and shot clock. “I really love the sport of basketball and knowing I’m helping the game progress in a way that the kids can get better makes the experience of TRUE BLUE 37

SCHOLARS

Celebrating Student Achievement Jernberg Scholar Announced Junior Jeffrey Gao of Madison has been named a Jernberg Scholar for the 2021-2022 school year. Jackson Academy awards this scholarship to current and incoming students who enhance their school community through academic excellence and character. The scholarship honors JA President Emeritus Peter Jernberg, who significantly influenced independent education during his career in education that included 26 years at JA. Jeffrey, who has been at JA since first grade, is the son of Pei Jian and Jie Zheng Gao of Madison. His younger sister Crystal is an eighth grader at JA. ........................................................................................................................................................................................

Cum Laude Inductees

The Cum Laude Society recognizes the highest degree of scholastic achievement in secondary schools and has only granted charters to four Mississippi schools. During the 2020-2021 academic year, the school’s chapter of Cum Laude welcomed the following students and faculty member Sandra McKay to membership; (from back, left) Coleman Dinkins, Thomas Arnold, Logan Huff, Paul Bautista, Drew Antici, Emery Thigpen, Wilson Eatherly, Wes Thomas, Sandon Guild; (second row) Elena Roberts, Priya Ray, Gracie Coe, Avery Hendrick, Anna Claire Seago, Zoe Ladner, Ava Couey, and Emma Roberts; (front) Connor Gee, Caroline Harrington, Abbie Arnett, Miles Taylor Leverette, Regan Felder, Maysa Vivians, Emma Collums, Isabelle Lee, and Gibson Cheney. 38 TRUE BLUE

SCHOLARS

National Honor Society

SOPHOMORES

JUNIORS

SENIORS

Sophomores inducted into the National Honor Society at Jackson Academy were (from back, left) Elizabeth Copeland, Bailey Berry, Blake Jones, Ishmam Bhuiyan, Parker Yarborough, Dev Sharma, Jeffrey Gao, Win Hooker, Coleman Chustz, Cooper Flechas, Bennett Wier, Houston Hearn, Ava Ladner, Mary Grace Foster, Avery Brooks; (front) Kathleen Thigpen, Olivia Claire Williford, Collett Hudson, Grayce Geary, Emma Duncan Hogue, Gracie Drew Pratt, Sarah Clay, Molly Baldwin, Stella Allen, Eliza Perkins, and Camille Towery. Not pictured: Thomas Antici Juniors inducted into the National Honor Society at Jackson Academy were (from back, left) Hayden Parr, Banks Whittington, Barton Boyll, Reid Felder, Wilson Eatherly, Drew Barrentine, Harrison Johnston, Banks McNair; (second row) Daniel Martin, Tye Gardner, Reed Travelstead, Davis Lee, Andrew Burks, Hudson Hadley, Matthew Frost, Cade Gadman, Garrett Smith, John Wicks; (front) Ashton Tate, Olivia Quin, Molly McClure, Elizabeth Castle, Caroline Crisler, Anna Claire Bush, Kennedy McKee, Rachel Beth Deaton, Natalie Turner, Jalia Coins, and Samuel Hadley. Not pictured: Remy Jones Seniors inducted into the National Honor Society at Jackson Academy were (f rom back, lef t) A lex Summerford, Andrew Holmes, Ford Hudson, Caleb Hernandez, Lachlan McLendon, Michael Lowe; (front) Jenna Daly, Parker Bracken, Madison Lampley, Isabelle Eiland, Ava Crawford, Caitlin Johnson, Elizabeth Pedigo, Grace Owens, and Rosemary Caldwell. Not pictured: Simms Baker, and Ally Sessums TRUE BLUE 39

SCHOLARS

National Junior Honor Society The National Junior Honor Society recognizes seventh and eighth-grade students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship. Jackson Academy’s National Junior Honor Society chapter inducted 27 new members during the 2020-2021 year. Inductees were (from back, left) Layla Farmer, Cayden Shorter, Natalie Shepardson, Sanders Reeves, Sadie Sandifer, Sara Kate Long, Rebekah Brooke Benson, Natalie Roberson, Chappell Lang, Josephine Haines, Anna Martin, Crystal Gao, Morgan Cheatham; (front) Jack Voyles, Breck Hines, Blake Bartlam, Cash Malouf, Carter Mathison, Crew Hassell, Caroline Wier, Rimes Dehmer, Mary Lamar Chustz, Katherine Gault, Presley Tanner, and Caroline Johnson. Not pictured: Emily Martin, and Libby Woosley ........................................................................................................................................................................................

National Merit Finalists

Isabelle Lee, Zoe Ladner, and Priya Ray earned recognition by the National Merit Scholarship Program as National Merit Finalists. The status of National Merit Finalist is achieved by only the top 0.5 percent of all high school juniors taking the PSAT test. 40 TRUE BLUE

SCHOLARS

Hall of Fame Jackson Academy seniors (from back, left) Wes Thomas, Coleman Dinkins, Drew Antici, Thomas Arnold, Bryant Seago, McNeill Dinkins; (front) Maysa Vivians, Emma Collums, Zoe Ladner, Priya Ray, and Isabelle Lee were inducted into the school’s hall of fame for exemplifying the highest standards of integrity and engagement in all areas of school and community life. ........................................................................................................................................................................................

STAR Students and Teachers Recognized The Mississippi Economic Council sponsors the StudentTeacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) Program to encourage scholastic performance among high school students. STAR students are selected based on ACT scores and scholastic averages, and designate a STAR teacher for significant contribution to their success. Jackson Academy’s STAR students and teachers for 2020-2021 were Isabelle Lee recognizing Chemistry Teacher Richard West and Priya Ray honoring former JA Latin Teacher Judy McKeigney. ........................................................................................................................................................................................

Valedictorian and Salutatorian Priyadarshini “Priya” Ray, daughter of Anandhi and Paresh Ray of Brandon, was the Jackson Academy Class of 2021 Valedictorian. Andrew “Drew” Antici, son of Angie and Brad Antici of Madison, was the Jackson Academy Class of 2021 Salutatorian. TRUE BLUE 41

SCHOLARS

29+ ACT In the 2020-2021 academic year, 63 Jackson Academy Upper School students achieved a score of 29 or above on the ACT. As a college-preparatory school, Jackson Academy proudly celebrates students’ pursuit of academic excellence and congratulates each of the following students on their accomplishment.

Drew Antici

Abigail Arnett

Thomas Arnold

Simms Baker

Drew Barrington

Paul Bautista

Bailey Berry

Gibson Cheney

Joseph Ciaccio

Gracie Coe

Emma Collums

Elizabeth Copeland

Ava Couey

Ava Crawford

Grant Dean

Morgan Dilworth

Coleman Dinkins

Wilson Eatherly

Lucy Elfert

Regan Felder

Cade Gadman

Jeffrey Gao

Connor Gee

Caroline Graven

Sandon Guild

Caroline Harrington

Houston Hearn

Avery Hendrick

Logan Huff

Harrison Johnston

Maggie Koury

Zoe Ladner

Annalee LeDuff

Davis Lee

Isabelle Lee

Miles Taylor Leverette

Parker Lowe

Daniel Martin

Anabel McCraney

Hensley Moulder

Thomas Nance

Anna Carlisle Nichols

Grace Owens

Hayden Parr

Elizabeth Pedigo

Eliza Perkins

Will Pilkington

Priya Ray

Caroline Redman

Elena Roberts

Emma Roberts

Elise Robinson

Anna Claire Seago

Dev Sharma

Ben Sigler

James Smith

Rett Stanley

Emery Thigpen

Wes Thomas

Jack Varner

Annalee Willson

Parker Yarborough

Anne York

TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

Teachers of the Year Jackson Academy recognized the 2020-2021 Teacher of the Year award recipients at the Jackson Academy Association’s annual Spring Faculty Appreciation Luncheon. Each year, one teacher from each division is selected by their peers to receive this distinction.

Amanda Cross Amanda Cross received the Preschool Teacher of the Year Award for K3 and K4. Cross graduated from the University of Mississippi with undergraduate and graduate degrees. In college, she studied elementary education and then earned her master’s in curriculum and instruction. She has taught at JA for four years. “My favorite part of teaching is watching the joy on each young child’s face when he or she discovers it is possible,” she said. “The ‘I did it’ moments are the most rewarding and stay in my heart forever!”

April Foster Lower School third grade teacher April Foster was awarded the Teacher of the Year Award for grades one through four. She holds a bachelor of science in education from Mississippi College, where she also earned her master’s in education. “It is rewarding to see students flourish academically, but my favorite aspect of teaching is seeing students develop spiritually and emotionally,” Foster shared. “It touches my heart when students take the time to notice others and reach out to someone who needs an encouraging word, a helping hand, or a friend to play with.”

Kay Lane Middle School social studies teacher Kay Lane received the Teacher of the Year Award for her division. Having taught at JA for 19 of her 39 years of teaching, Lane retired at the end of the 2020-2021 school year. “I have always felt that teaching is much more than a profession,” she said. “It is more of a ministry in which I have tried to do my best to educate the whole child spiritually, emotionally, and academically. I also love getting to know my children during those ‘down’ times when we can just talk about our lives.”

Richard West Richard West received the Upper School Teacher of the Year Award. West earned a bachelor of science from Alcorn State University and a master of science from Jackson State University. He credits summer programs at the University of Southern Mississippi, Georgia Tech, and the University of Alabama for solidifying his understanding of advanced inorganic chemistry. West has taught at JA for four years and said, “My favorite aspect of teaching is when students go off to study chemistry in areas of higher learning and find that they are as prepared and even more prepared than students from other parts of the country.” TRUE BLUE 43

JACKSON ACADEMY

Andrew Bradley Antici

Thomas Mullins Arnold

Kaylee Dupree Ashford

Connor Burks Bailey

Rosemary Catherine Caldwell

Joshua Brower Canoy

Mackenzie Claire Coburn

Gracie Anne Coe

Natalie Renee DeRusso

James McNeill Dinkins

Randle Coleman Dinkins

Mary Grace Downs

CLASS of 2021 Krislyn Jenae Gibson

James Augustus Gordon

Caroline Alexis Graven

Phoebe Lauren Guinn

Fumilayo Rosiemae Hall

Caroline Rice Harrington

Sophie Parker Hays

Avery Julian Hendrick

Mary Evelyn Hudgins

Rayford Raleigh Hudson

Ari Simone Jackson

Caleb Jeremiah Jenkins

Caitlin Elise Johnson

Knox Calvin Kimball

Zoe Alexis Ladner

Madison McCaskill Lampley

Duncan Lachlan McLendon

Elizabeth Pryor Mehrle

Katherine Hensley Moulder

Nickolas Christian Nail

Thomas Barton Nance

Grace Christine Owens

Elizabeth Clay Pedigo

Madeleine Rebecca Pettus

Emma Catherine Roberts

Lillian Frances Robertson

Alexandra Elise Robinson

John Parker Ryan

Anna Claire Seago

Thomas Bryant Seago

Allison Paige Sessums

William Bennett Sigler

Wesley Spencer Thomas

Emily Elizabeth Thompson

McKenna Catherine Thompson

Natalie Bond Thompson

William Reese Van Skiver

John Hallet Varner

Donovan Christian Veasley

Maysa Gabrielle Vivians

Simms Loran Baker

Jarrott Dante’ Banks

Jonathan Paolo Horne Bautista

Holden Scott Benner

Parker Elizabeth Bracken

Hudson Moore Bridges

Emily Jordan Brown

Nicholas Benton Bryan

Emma Caroline Collums

Jackson Chamberlin Conn

Julianna Louise Copeland

Ava Overton Couey

Ava Rose Crawford

Jenna Shay Daly

William Lockert Danley

Harlan Grant Dean

Turner Mitchell Easley

Isabelle Grace Eiland

Michael Charles Elinski

Meredith Blayne Fielder

Tristan Andrew Foster

Dorothy Claire Funderburg

Meagan McKinley Gautier

Brendan Aneus Gibson

Caleb Nathaniel Hernandez

Ethan Justice Hill

Glake Alton Hill III

Zharia Taylor Hill

Garner Sullivan Hixon

Michael Stephen Hogue Jr.

Andrew Wallace Holmes

Hallie Gray House

Aden Murry Lang

Emory Ann Laseter

Isabelle Carmen Lee

Miles Taylor Leverette

Ina Marie Lewis

Larry Michael Lowe III

Robert Peyton Mahaffey

Anabel Winston McCraney

William Kyle Pilkington

Caleb Jordan Powers

Priyadarshini Ray

Anna Blake Reed

Jude Simmons Reeves

Lily Caroline Rhoden

Owen Hooker Ridgeway

Elena Ruth Roberts

Eleanor Jane Simmons

James Wilburn Smith III

Mckinna Grace Smith

Marett Jackson Stanley

Noah Stanley Sullivan

Robert Alexander Summerford

Branson Blake Tadlock

Emery Calvin Thigpen

Dillan James Wade

Lardarius Mondez Webb Jr.

Sarah Kate White

Alice Bradley Williams

Katherine Delaney Williams

Demi Charnique Williamson

Anne Moore York

Katherine Clay Youngblood

CLASS OF 2021

College Choices Drew Antici Mississippi State University Thomas Arnold University of Virginia Kaylee Ashford University of Mississippi Connor Bailey University of Mississippi Simms Baker University of Mississippi JJ Banks Mississippi State University Paul Bautista Northeastern University Holden Benner University of Mississippi Parker Bracken Louisiana State University Hudson Bridges University of Mississippi Emmy Brown University of Mississippi Nic Bryan Mississippi State University Rosemary Caldwell University of Alabama Josh Canoy Hinds Community College Mackenzie Coburn University of Mississippi Gracie Coe Brigham Young University Emma Collums Belmont University Jackson Conn Mississippi State University Julianna Copeland Mississippi State University Ava Couey University of Mississippi Ava Crawford Mississippi State University Jenna Daly Mississippi State University Locke Danley University of North Alabama Grant Dean United States Naval Academy Natalie DeRusso University of Mississippi McNeill Dinkins Mississippi State University Coleman Dinkins U.S. Military Academy at West Point Mary Grace Downs Mississippi State University Turner Easley University of Mississippi Isabelle Eiland Mississippi State University 46 TRUE BLUE

Mikey Elinski Holmes Community College Meredith Fielder University of Mississippi Tristan Foster University of Mississippi Dodie Funderberg Hinds Community College Meagan Gautier Mississippi College Brendan Gibson Belhaven University Krislyn Gibson University of Southern Mississippi Gus Gordon University of Mississippi Caroline Graven Mississippi State University Phoebe Guinn Tulane University Fumi Hall Mississippi College Caroline Harrington University of Mississippi Sophie Hays University of Mississippi Avery Hendrick Clemson University Caleb Hernandez Mississippi State University Ethan Hill University of Mississippi Glake Hill Tougaloo College Zharia Hill Pennsylvania State University Garner Hixon University of Mississippi Michael Hogue University of Mississippi Andrew Holmes University of Mississippi Hallie Gray House Mississippi State University Evie Hudgins University of Mississippi Ford Hudson University of Mississippi Ari Jackson Loyola University New Orleans Caleb Jenkins University of Mississippi Caitlin Johnson University of Reading Knox Kimball Mississippi State University Zoe Ladner University of Alabama Madison Lampley Holmes Community College

Aden Lang Mississippi State University Emory Laseter University of Mississippi Isabelle Lee University of Alabama Miles Taylor Leverette Mississippi College Marie Lewis Mississippi State University Michael Lowe University of Mississippi Rob Mahaffey University of Mississippi Anabel McCraney University of Mississippi Lachlan McLendon Holmes Community College Pryor Mehrle University of Mississippi Hensley Moulder Rhodes College Nick Nail University of Southern Mississippi Thomas Nance Mississippi State University Grace Owens University of South Carolina Elizabeth Pedigo Auburn University Madeleine Pettus University of Mississippi Will Pilkington University of Mississippi Caleb Powers Hinds Community College Priya Ray Columbia University Anna Blake Reed University of Mississippi Jude Reeves Mississippi State University Lily Rhoden University of Mississippi Owen Ridgeway University of Mississippi Elena Roberts Mississippi College Emma Roberts Mississippi College Lila Robertson University of Alabama Elise Robinson University of Mississippi Parker Ryan Pearl River Community College Anna Claire Seago Mississippi State University Bryant Seago Mississippi State University

Ally Sessums University of Mississippi Ben Sigler Hinds Community College Ella Jane Simmons University of Mississippi Deion Smith Louisiana State University James Smith University of Mississippi Mckinna Smith Northwest Community College Rett Stanley Spurgeon College Noah Sullivan University of Mississippi Alex Summerford University of Mississippi Branson Tadlock Jones College Emery Thigpen University of Mississippi Wes Thomas Mississippi State University Emily Thompson Mississippi State University McKenna Thompson Cinema Makeup School Los Angeles Natalie Thompson Mississippi State University Reese Van Skiver Holmes Community College Jack Varner University of Mississippi Donovan Veasley Holmes Community College Maysa Vivians Mississippi State University Dillan Wade Hinds Community College Lardarius Webb Jones College Kate White Sewanee: University of the South Alice Williams Mississippi State University Delaney Williams University of Mississippi Demi Williamson University of Mississippi Anne York University of Mississippi Katie Youngblood University of Southern Mississippi

CLASS OF 2021

Signed, Sealed, Scholarshipped New Academic Signing Days Celebrate Scholastic Achievement and College Choice This year, Jackson Academy proudly hosted four Academic Signing Days in recognition of those students who earned scholarships to colleges and universities near and far. Mississippi State University, the University of Mississippi, and Mississippi College hosted individual signing events, and students attending other Mississippi schools or studying out-ofstate were recognized at a fourth event. The Class of 2021 set extraordinary records, with seniors earning admission and scholarship acceptances to more than 30 colleges and universities.

Mississippi State University

The University of Mississippi

JA welcomed Mississippi State University President Dr. Mark E. Keenum and Admission Counselor Spencer Snider to campus in March to celebrate 24 seniors who received scholarships to attend MSU.

The University of Mississippi’s Chancellor, Dr. Glenn Boyce, attended an Academic Signing Day to honor 37 members of the Class of 2021 who committed to attend Ole Miss and received scholarships, guided by Admission Counselor Megan Thomas.

Mississippi College

Across the Country and Globe

Five seniors formally accepted scholarships to attend Mississippi College at an Academic Signing Day hosted by MC President Dr. Blake Thompson and Admission Counselor Hannah Richards. After the presentation, Dr. Thompson gathered with parents to pray over the students in true MC fashion.

At the fourth and final Academic Signing Day, JA celebrated the accomplishments of 39 outstanding students attending colleges and universities throughout the United States and internationally. Former U.S. Representative and JA past parent Chip Pickering spoke, offering inspiration and guidance for the soon-to-be graduates. TRUE BLUE 47

LIFERS

Class of 2021 Lifers Students who graduate from JA after attending the school from kindergarten through twelfth-grade experience the benefits of belonging to the same community throughout their primary and secondary education. Called “Lifers,” these students return to the familiar campus and community year after year during the most significant social, psychological, and educational development of their lives, enjoying a sense of continuity and security even as they change and grow into young men and women.

ANDREW ANTICI KAYLEE ASHFORD SIMMS BAKER PARKER BRACKEN HUDSON BRIDGES EMILY BROWN NICHOLAS BRYAN ROSEMARY CALDWELL MACKENZIE COBURN EMMA COLLUMS JULIANNA COPELAND AVA COUEY AVA CRAWFORD JENNA DALY NATALIE DERUSSO MARY GRACE DOWNS TURNER EASLEY ISABELLE EILAND MEREDITH FIELDER TRISTAN FOSTER DODIE FUNDERBURG MEAGAN GAUTIER 48 TRUE BLUE

JAMES GORDON CAROLINE GRAVEN SOPHIE HAYS AVERY HENDRICK CALEB HERNANDEZ ETHAN HILL ZHARIA HILL GARNER HIXON ANDREW HOLMES HALLIE GRAY HOUSE EVIE HUDGINS FORD HUDSON ARI JACKSON ZOE LADNER EMORY LASETER ISABELLE LEE MICHAEL LOWE ROBERT MAHAFFEY DUNCAN MCLENDON PRYOR MEHRLE ELIZABETH PEDIGO MADELEINE PETTUS

PRIYA RAY JUDE REEVES LILY RHODEN OWEN RIDGEWAY LILA ROBERTSON ELISE ROBINSON ALLY SESSUMS BEN SIGLER ELLA JANE SIMMONS JAMES SMITH RETT STANLEY NOAH SULLIVAN ALEX SUMMERFORD EMERY THIGPEN WESLEY THOMAS EMILY THOMPSON NATALIE THOMPSON JACK VARNER ALICE WILLIAMS DELANEY WILLIAMS KATHERINE YOUNGBLOOD

SCHOLARSHIPS

Endowed Scholarship Recipients Banks McNair

Remy Jones

Houston Hearn and Morgan Dilworth

Daniel Martin

Anna Grace Doggett

Alex Guild, Ann Barret Roberson, and Avery Brooks

Jake Perkins and Jeffrey Gao

Danielle Wallace

Annalee LeDuff

Meridith Ray

Avery Buchanan

Connor Gee

McNeill Dinkins

Aidan Rich

Ava Barbour

Cam Walker

The 20th Century Endowed Scholarship

Frances Ann Fortner Scholarship

Banks McNair, Son of Melodi and Tim McNair

Annalee LeDuff, Daughter of Stacie and Jeff LeDuff

Harmon & Faye Bowman Memorial Scholarship

Jane Gibbons Memorial Scholarship

Morgan Dilworth, Daughter of Andrea and Melvin Dilworth Houston Hearn, S on of Elizabeth Hearn and Nickee Allison and Philip Hearn

Meridith Ray, Daughter of Kecia and Corey Ray

Scott Branning Scholarship

Avery Buchanan, D aughter of Nicole and Niles ’92 Buchanan

Daniel Martin, Son of Crystal Martin

The Herschel Brickell Family Endowed Scholarship Anna Grace Doggett, Daughter of Theresa and Tim Doggett

The Glenn Cain Scholarship Alex Guild (9th), D aughter of Suzanne ’92 and Cameron ’92 Guild Avery Brooks (10th), Daughter of Marie and Josh Brooks Ann Barret Roberson (11th), Daughter of April and Richard Roberson

Julie Dyer Collins Leadership Award Remy Jones, Daughter of Amber and Karl Jones

Andrew Yoste Defore Annual Scholarship Danielle Wallace, D aughter of Laura Wallace and Ed Matlage

Higgins Family Scholarship

Anthony Kalantzis Memorial Tennis Award Jeffrey Gao, Son of Jie Zheng and Pei Jian Gao Jake Perkins, Son of Cydney and Lance Perkins

Hallie Houston Keyes Memorial Scholarship Connor Gee, Son of Staci and Guion Gee

Meeks Insurance Agency McNeill Dinkins, Son of Ali and John ’84 Dinkins

Mary Sprayberry Memorial Art Scholarship Aidan Rich, Daughter of Alisha Paige and Quentin Ryland

The Leigh Anne Ward Memorial Scholarship Ava Barbour, D aughter of Jackye Barbour and Jennifer and Reeves Barbour Cam Walker, Son of Rivers ’97 and Shaun Walker TRUE BLUE 49

A MESSAGE FROM THE JAA

Dear Jackson Academy Community, What a year it’s been! Although COVID-19 restrictions limited some actions of the JAA, we continued to work hard to make the most of the opportunities available to us. We would like to thank all parents, guardians, and extended JA family for your continued dedication and support. The difficulties of this past year only made it more evident how grateful we are to be Raiders! Despite our challenges, the JAA successfully provided many of our beloved activities and traditions to students and staff. Some examples of the annual services we offered were: • Back to School Week Meals for faculty and staff • Host Family Program for new JA families and students • New Student Receptions • Back to School Prayer Walk and the Moms in Prayer Program • Uniform Exchanges

• School Supplies Drive • Vision and Hearing Screenings • JA Fall Carnival • Periodic treat days for faculty and staff • Preschool Christmas Open House • Faculty & Staff Spring Luncheon

Some of our other recent projects include: • New football field turf • New sound system for PAC • Nearly $15,000 in Teacher Grants awarded in 2021 to aid teachers in grades K3 through twelve. These grants are awarded every other year. “A Blue & White Night” and the Fall Carnival help raise funds for all of the programs the JAA provides throughout the school year. We are also always welcoming new ideas as to how the JAA can assist in enhancing our school. This coming year will allow the JAA to continue updating our Performing Arts Center equipment that all of our students use. With our present growth as a school, recently launched capital campaign, and enthusiastic new leadership, there are undoubtedly great things ahead for Jackson Academy. We look forward to working with you to make this coming school year the best yet! Go Raiders! Allison New ’97 JAA President 2020-2021 50 TRUE BLUE

Angie Haraway ’96 JAA President 2021-2022

JAA BOARD 2020-21 (Back, Left) Courtney Williams, Elizabeth Weeks, Allison New ’97, Jessica Laura, Lorraine Boykin, (Front, Left) Mallie Earl, Angie Haraway ’96, Mysti Chustz ’98, Felice Wicks, (Not Pictured) Memrie Fortenberry ’96, Kysia Geary, Erin Johnston

A MESSAGE FROM THE AT H L E T I C B O O S T E R C L U B

Dear Raider Families, On behalf of the Jackson Academy Athletic Booster Club Board, we want to take a minute to thank you for your continued support of the Booster Club. As we entered the 2020-2021 school year, it was unfortunately with great unknowns as to how the year would unfold for our students and their families. As you remember, we finished the 201920 year with some uphill battles for spring sports first due to unbelievable flooding at Raider Park, then due to COVID-19. We all quickly realized how much we missed seeing our students compete and perform on the field. One thing we carried into the new school year and will carry forward this coming year is that We Are JA! We knew we would get through it together, and we did as Raider Nation! We are so proud of our JA families as we persevered together. The Jackson Academy Booster Club’s primary role is to provide support to all aspects of Jackson Academy’s sports and spirit teams and to encourage school spirit among our students, families, and friends. With multiple programs throughout the year, the Booster Club can focus on all students from K3 all the way through our graduating seniors. It is especially rewarding to watch as our younger students look up to and learn from our older athletes as they mentor our young Raiders into thriving students, athletes, and leaders! Of course, we could not accomplish any of these programs without our board members, parent members, volunteers, and financial supporters. Thank you for your support through sponsorships, booster club memberships, purchase of all-sports passes, and service in the concessions stands. Most importantly, thank you for being present and cheering on our Raiders to victory!

Each year, the Booster Club is presented with a list of requests from athletics as to where we can help out financially. We are happy to report, that even with COVID-19 restrictions and limited game attendance, we were able to financially support all the requests presented to us. The projects supported by the 2020-21 Booster Club included continued payment towards the football field turf in conjunction with the JAA, baseball batting cage upgrades, girl’s soccer uniforms, track repairs, supplemental golf team coaching and new golf bags, along with new basketball gymnasium wall pads. We could not do any of this without the help of our Raider Family and our financial sponsors. We would be remiss if we did not mention our incredible array of coaches, teachers, staff, and administrators who are dedicated to preparing our children to be strong students, athletes, and leaders. We want to personally thank each of you for going above and beyond in this time of challenges to assure our children were taught, counseled, and prepared for their next steps in life. As Stefanie and I transition out of the role of Booster Club President for 2020-21, I would like to introduce you to Brett and Jenni Graven as we pass the torch to them for the 20212022 school year. We know Brett and Jenni will continue to carry on the legacy of the Jackson Academy Booster Club! Thank you again for your continued support of the Booster Club, Raider Athletics, and our Raider Family. We look forward to seeing you back on campus where together we will have great success because…We Are JA! Sincerely, Alan and Stefanie Grant 2020-2021 President TRUE BLUE 51

2020-2021 Statistics JA Annual Fund Children’s Promise Act* Grand Total Giving

$ 157,968.19 (100%) PARENTS

$ 317,910.28 436 Donors (43%) GRANDPARENTS

$ 83,475.00 210 Donors (17%)

...................................................................................................................

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

$ 479,939 $ 250,000 $ 729,939

FACULTY AND STAFF

$ 32, 221.11 178 Donors (97%) ALUMNI

$ 133.486.00 106 Donors (3%) PAST PARENTS

$ 138,275.32 222 Donors (15%)

* Children’s Promise Act Notice: In 2019, the Mississippi Legislature passed the Children’s Promise Act, which authorized a tax credit for businesses when they donate to an Eligible Charitable Organization. To receive the tax credits, applications must be completed and filed with the Mississippi Department of Revenue on January 1 and time stamped prior to the maximum annual cap being reached. For more information, please contact JA’s Office of Development at (601) 364-5754. 52 TRUE BLUE

GIVING

JA ANNUAL FUND

Donors 2020-2021 Cornerstone Circle $25,000+ Anonymous** Ergon Foundation, Inc. Millbrook Cricket Farm, Inc.** Robert Hederman ’90 Steve Hederman ’92 Geri Beth and Allen Smith Wesley A. Caldwell Foundation The Yates Companies, Inc.**

Benefactor Circle $10,000+ Ashley ’95 and Jeff Brantley Leigh ’89 and George Butler++ Alexander Good The James Family Foundation Anne Maxwell and Bill Hussey Janice Laws** Jane and Robert Hederman Scarlet and Darrington Seward Carolyn and Jason ’94 Voyles Bobbie and Frazier Ward Ashley ’87 and Mark Willson

Honor Circle $5,000+ Linda and Gene Barrett Josie and Mel Burgess Patty and Don Clark D-Square Clothing LLC Jennifer and McKie ’94 Edmonson Cherry and Patrick Mullen Holley and Don Noblitt Melissa and Scott Runnels Specialty Metals Supply, Inc.** Meredith ’89 and Joel Travelstead

Sustainer Circle $2,500+ Ashley and Joey Bronzi Wanda Carmichael Century Club Charities, Inc. Karen and Jep Cole Lindsay ’94 and Dodds ’92 Dehmer Fresh Cut Catering and Floral* Marty and Leland Gebhart Brad and Lee Ann Griffin Amy and Robert ’90 Hederman Lisa and Michael ’92 Johnson

Reagan and Alan ’90 Jones Kinkade’s Fine Clothing* Kathy and Steve Kowalski Bobby Graham and Sharon Martin Kristin and Patrick Malouf Melissa and Jay Meacham Elizabeth ’93 and Kerk Mehrle Lauren and Nick Miller Susan and John Ryan Shelter Insurance - Meeks Agency* Leigh and Scott ’92 Shoemaker Lee Ann and Calvin ’94 Thigpen Eleanor Wettach Mary Carolyn ’90 and Brad Williams Ann and Denny Zimmerman

Visionary Circle $1,000+ Brooke and Scot Akins Albriton’s Jewelry* Sharon and Jim Armstrong Rosemary and Les Aultman Karen and John Banks Deidre and Austin Barbour Marsha and Haley Barbour Bossier & Associates, PLLC Sheila Bossier Lorraine and Smith Boykin Lana and Guy ’95 Boyll* Amy, Mike, Truett ’19, and Bennett Brooks Lamar Chustz Barbara and Jason Craft David Crews* Laura and David Dyess* Lee Ann ’88 and Michael Elinski* Jennifer and Derek Emerson* Jie Zheng and Pie Jian Gao Kathy and Nelson Gibson Michelle J. Gibson Emily ’96 and Stephen ’95 Greer Claire and Stephen Griner Suzanne ’92 and Cameron ’92 Guild Price and Robert Halford Jean and Scott Hines Pat and Peter Jernberg Deborah and Leslie Lampton Jackson Academy Class of 2021 Kim and Richard Johnson Michelle and Greg ’91 Johnston Robin and Ed Kennedy

Lauren and Reid ’94 Lester Jana and Craig Long Jennifer ’93 and Mike Lowe Hayley and John Lundy Katie and Tim Parker Susan and JoJo Payne Lulu and Scott ’90 Pedigo Sandy and Charlie Penick Vera and Flip Phillips Elizabeth ’90 and Percy Quinn Laurie and John Raines Grayson Ridgway ’01 Patty and Michael Robbins Aaron and Morgan Samuels Jeanne ’93 and John ’92 Scarbrough Misti ’92 and Clint Sims Mary Elizabeth and J. George Smith Charlotte ’06 and Jeremy Taylor Kari Taylor Crystal and Zach Thompson Rebecca and Charles Tidal Robin and Marty Tucker Charlotte and John ’90 York Myra and Woody York

Loyalty Club $500+ Deborah Allen Lynn and Leigh Allen Brian Barnett ’01 Donna and Roger Bozarth Janna and Brian Breland John Caldwell, Jr. The Can Man* Bonnie and Jim Chapman Susan and Ken Chapman Beth and John ’86 Clay Debbie ’89 and Edward ’91 Copeland The Cotton Exchange* Suzanne and Charley Crell Lydia Cox and Roger Fish Tiffany and Alwin Dockins Alex Eaton* Gail and John England Kathleen and Kyle Gordon Mary Jane Greenlee Angie ’96 and Neil Haraway Lyn ’98 and Breck ’97 Hines Kowalski Printers* James Lambuth ’01

Mahaffey Printers* Sandra and Ken Macham Pat and Chuck Miner Kenneth O’Keefe Jean Anne Patton Persnickety* Marsha and Ken Revere Kristie and Chris Rohman Gina and Lee ’90 Seago Southern Beverage* Liz and Art Spratlin Judy and Crawley Stubblefield Keith Studdard ’00 Martha and Mike Summerford Ingrid and Timmy Taylor Louisa and Tate Thigpen Kay and Joe Usry Michelle and Jody Varner Melanie and Warner Wadlington Susan and Walter Weems Julia Patton Whitt Wren and Ivy* Linda Young

Scholar Club $250+ Nexus Advisors Ashley ’94 and Gabe Baldwin Annie Laurie and David ’05 Barrett Basil’s* Azad Bhuiyan and Aqfa Sultana Mona Bostwick Lind and John Bussey Brandi and Alan Callison Amy Champagne Mysti ’96 and Philip ’96 Chustz Hannah and Jack Copeland Mona and Chris Coney Jackson Academy Class of 2020 Brooks and Thomas Elfert Teresita and Jerry Golden Aaron Graham ’04 Brooke and Charles Greenlee Mary Ann and William Griesbeck Reid Gunn ’01 Debbie and Lee Harris April and David ’94 Hendrick Heather and Tommy Hixon Courtney and Chad ’96 Hosemann Hillary ’00 and Chesley ’99 James TRUE BLUE 53

GIVING

JA ANNUAL FUND

Donors 2020-2021 (continued) Dawn and Tony Jasinski Rhoshunda and Mike Kelly Lucy and Seth Knight Leslie and Lewis ’90 Lipscomb Laura and Tom Lohmeier Cynthia ’89 and Tim Mahaffey Helaine and Thomas Maley Jenny and Pete Markow Crystal Wise Martin Jonathan McCullough ’00 Beth and Tim McWilliams Sheri and Clint Moody Kristen ’95 and Lee ’93 Nations Austin and Joel Nutt Christy and Shannon Orr Gail and Steven Pickering Jeanine and Steve Pickering Vicky Pilkington Linda and Gus Purviance Martha and William Ray Sharon and Tom Rhoden Deena and Daniel ’83 Richart Dana and Bill Robertson Barbara and Ed Sentell Natale and JJ Sheehan Angie and Brent Shorter Julie and Cole Smith Sandy and Lester Smith Stanley Seminars, LLC* Bean and Floyd Sulser Helen and Clay ’94 Summerford Rachel and Walt Towery Claire Turner Teri and Frank Vollor Theodore Waechter Virginia and Richard Warren Martha and Murray Whitaker Ginger and Bob Williford

Century Club $100+ Vickie Lynn Adams Suzanne and Jim Almas Belinda and Scott Armando Rhonda and Bobby Armstrong Judy Arnold Susan and P.G. Arnold Kate and David Bowman Janet and Richard Burnette Becky and Paul Cade 54 TRUE BLUE

Debbie and William Campbell Katie Calhoon ’01 Leslie and Gregory Carpenter Mary Kay ’83 and Wendell ’84 Catchings Cynthia Cirilli Marietta and Jimmie Coins Katherine P. Cole Marimae Coleman Marlene Cook Carol Crawford Lauren ’02 and Preston Denley Dana Devine Alexis and Josh Dorman Renee and Conrad Ebner Sandra Eubank Carol and George Evans Deanna and Steve Funderburg Beebe and Nick Garrard Penny Godwin Stefanie and Alan Grant Green Oak Nursery and Florist* Allen Griffin Juanita Ann Harper Brandee and Joseph Harrington Mary Lene and Newt Harrison Ann and Gene Henson Highland Village* Sherry and Cliff Holmes Laura and Tom ’89 Horn Jackson Academy Class of 2027 Carol and Victor Jones Quinn and Bradley ’99 Kellum Brandon and Foster ’98 Kennedy Becky and Danny Keuter Cecilia and Bryan Lagg Melanie and John ’99 Lauderdale Ann and Gerry Lauman Angie and Mitch Lee Jane and Larry Lee Jessica and Jay Leverette Eliza Lundy ’15 Natalie ’96 and Josh Lynch Jennifer and Chris ’93 Mathison Corinne and John McCormick Missy and Mike McMullan Mimi and Robert Mehrle Millbrook Cricket Farm* Robert Hederman ’90 Steve Hederman ’92 Gerre and Bobby Moak

Ann Monroe Jan ’89 and Wen Nance Robert Neely Maureen and Harold Oriol Robin and Tom Owens Julia Parker Emily and Gary Pettus Carol and Steve Pittman Jamie Priest Shirlene Priest Joyce Pulley Kecia and Corey Ray Amanda and Brad ’97 Reeves Sue and Jim Roberts Rose Lee and Joe Robinson Sherry and Richard Rula Betsy and Joe Samuels Sandy Shorter Ashley and Brent Smith Matthew C. Smith ’08 Stella-Gray and Phillip Sykes Barbara and Danny Tadlock Becky and Greg Taylor Carolyn Thompson Emily ’12 and Landon ’08 Thompson Jennifer and Alonso Tripoli Todd Turner ’00 Martha and Tommy Tyson Rebecca ’98 and Michael ’98 Ueltschey Jackie Usry Kate and Thad Varner Stephanie and Timothy Vivians Shanda and Jason Walenta Felice and John Wicks Lynette Wier Bobbie Williams Patricia and Mark Wise Isabel and John Wood

Anniversary Club $50+ Angie and Brian Adair Arin Adkins William Barnett ’95 Claire ’97 and Charles Belknap Emily and Michael Blain Barbara and Pat Brewer Kathryn Curry Rita Gaines Holly and Clark ’87 Gamblin

Lucy and Bill Gault Erica Jackson Jackson Academy Class of 2000 Jackson Academy Class of 2001 Emily ’95 and Brian Johnson Beth and Harper Keeler Adam Keyes ’09 Sheila and Ricky Keyes Carley and Chris Laney Jodie ’98 and Jeffrey Lockhart Mitzi McDonald Molly and Mark McManus Austin and Martin ’05 Miller T. and Bill Miley Judy Potter Magda and Eric Shepardson Cindy and Jim Spencer Nancy Stevens Nancy and John Studdard Ginger ’94 and Ben Wallace Linda Wardlaw Brian Young ’84

Scholar’s Club $25+ Natalie Boteler Ruby and N.Z. Bryant Phyllis and Don Collins Polly Crosthwait Laurie and Josh Fleming Kerri ’89 and Rusty ’89 Hawkins Millie and Ray Higgins Cathy and Gene Huff Kristin and Zachary Musselman Marilyn and Jimmy Royals Lyndsay and Matthew Summers Will Walker ’01

Below $25 Dee and Joe Gex Clarke Wilkirson ’16 Hunter Wilkirson ’19

Gift In Kind Children’s Promise Act + Combination of in-kind donation and financial contribution ++ Combination of Children’s Promise Act and financial contribution *

GIVING

JA ANNUAL FUND

Faculty & Staff Donors 2020-2021 Honor Circle $5,000+ Colleen and Stan Roberts

Sustainer Circle $2,500+ Angie and Brad Antici Mary Clay and Matthew Morgan

Visionary Circle $1,000+ Lynn and Ben Watson Audrey and Jim Wilkirson

Loyalty Club $500+ Caroline and Jack Milne Patti Wade

Scholar Club $250+ Catherine and Peter Arnold Stacy ’89 and Chris Bates Frances and John ’06 Bussey Jamie and Richard Byrd Cori and Jay Ciaccio Ali and John ’84 Dinkins Sherri and John Eiland Harriett and Mark Eppes Gloria and Stephen Hirn Susan Ingram Nancy and David Kilpatrick Sarah Love Sandra and Mike McKay Lisa and Ryan Perkins Paula and Paul Pratt Wanda and James Reeves Mandy and Ray Robertson Suzanne and Tate ’88 Thigpen Sharon and Chris Tucker Jennifer and Brandtley Walker Brittany and Eddie ’03 Wettach

Century Club $100+ Dee Ball Trey Bayliss Beth and Jonathan Blackwell Debbie and Mike Brister Trey Brister

Marie and Josh Brooks Hope and Bob Burford Leah and Darin Busby Amy and Bill Bush Courtney ’94 and Jason Bush Catherine and Jon Carter Cathy and Mark Chinn Amanda and Myles Cross Melissa Denson Courtney and Walt Denton Dawn Duncombe Cyndi ’92 and Bryan Eubank Rebecca and Parker Fowler Patricia and Lane Frazier Mallory and Daniel Gnemi Katrice and Jeff Hadley Laura and Parker Harris Mimi and Andrew ’07 Heard Jane and Mark Hinkle Josh Hinkle ’15 Colleen Jones Andrea and Mark Lackey Lynn Ladner Laurie and Don Lewis Stancie Ley Lisa and Steve Lofton Bryan Madden ’99 Rosanne and Joseph Maxwell Evan McCarley Julie and Steven McCartney Madi McNair ’14 Melodi and Tim McNair Jennifer and Robert Miller Michelle and Bob Mills Gloria Morris Beth Murray Vickie and Kenneth Neal Erin and Max ’06 Neely Tyler Parvin Wanda and Randy Pearcy Shelle and James Pinkard Andrew Prince Kellie and Jeff Rhodes Haleigh and Andrew ’09 Ritter Tina Shaw Kathy Sheffield ’82 Kerri and James Smith Linda and Danny Smith Mallory and Richard Stafford Cathy Strauss

Nancy and David Sykes Avery and Matt Truitt Meri Scott and Hank ’09 Waterer Richard West-Griffin Amy ’12 and Will Whittenton Beth Williamson Patrice and John Worley Jamie Wright

Anniversary Club $50+ Ashley and John Adcock Whitney Allen Sara Bannerman Jackye Barbour Phillip Buffington Bronwyn ’83 and Chris Burford Ann Boswell ’03 and Chris Carlson Becky and Bobo Clarke Claudia and Dennis Conklin Jennifer Conway Ashlee and Ed Flechas Jennifer Funderburg Jennifer and Rowland Hall Carny and Mike Harkins Debra and Paul Hastings Neely Holland Roxie and David Hood Michele and Mark Markow Kayla and Seth ’00 Mosal Lynda Morse Julie Murray Lance Pogue Laura Pressler Reagan Ray Bronwyn and Danny Robertson Castlen King Rogers Ronnie Rogers Kerri Sanders Sarah Shaw Lori Snider Nancy and Ray Stevens Brenda and Richard Sullivan Bebe and John Sumner Celia and Bruce Sumrall Todd Taylor Sandra ’09 and Robert Triplett Bonnie and Gray Wiggers

Scholar’s Club $25+ Rachel and Lance Anderson Lorraine and David Blount Rex Bradshaw Katie and Jamie ’92 Chustz Holly and Webb Collums Abbie Cox Nan and Glen Dear Carrie Ann and Wilson Eatherly Susan Elliott April and Mark Foster Sarah Howard James Kenyon Linda Lambert Joy Miller Suzanne ’91 and John ’83 Murray Jamie and Jonathan Pace Jana and Lee Ragland Tammy Thompson Ana and Patrick Tucker LaDonna Whitney Ashley Zamjahn

Below $25 Brock Angle Caleb Canterbury Nancy and Bill Cheney Sarah Clark Amanda and Tommy Ferrill Michael and Lynn Green Betsy King Kay and Robert Lane Chad Lessard Rachel and Micah Lies Megan and James Logan Thomas Martin Aimee Odom Sydney and Christian Pinnen Jennifer and Cliff Powers Christy and Chris Richardson Jaylon Robinson Grace Simmons Amanda Smithers Jesse Taylor Mamie and Zachary Taylor Susan and Alan Whitfield Amy Woods

TRUE BLUE 55

GIVING

JA ANNUAL FUND

Alumni Giving 2020-2021 Class of 1982

Class of 1992

Class of 1997

Kathy Cockayne Sheffield

Jamie Chustz Dodds Dehmer Cyndi Tomlinson Eubank Cameron Guild Suzanne Greer Guild Steve Hederman Michael E. Johnson John Scarbrough Scott Shoemaker Misti Stevens Sims

Claire Smith Belknap Breck Hines Brad Reeves

Class of 1993

Class of 1999

Jennifer Lee Lowe Chris Mathison Elizabeth Warren Mehrle Lee Nations Jeanne Moak Scarbrough

Chesley James Bradley Kellum John Lauderdale Elizabeth Calhoon Quinn Bryan Madden

Class of 2006

Class of 1994

Class of 2000

Class of 2007

Ashley Jones Baldwin Courtney Allison Bush Lindsay Hines Dehmer McKie Edmonson David Hendrick Reid Lester Clay Summerford Calvin Thigpen Jason Voyles Ginger Van Skiver Wallace

Hillary Taylor James Jonathan McCullough Seth Mosal Keith Studdard Todd Turner

Andrew Heard

Class of 2001

Class of 2009

Brian Barnett Katie Calhoon Reid Gunn James Lambuth Grayson Ridgway Will Walker

Adam Keyes Andrew Ritter Sandra England Triplett Hank Waterer

Class of 1983 Bronwyn Caves Burford Mary Kay Hollis Catchings John Murray Daniel Richart

Class of 1984 Wendell Catchings John Dinkins Brian Young

Class of 1986 Phillip Bowman John Clay

Class of 1987 T. Clark Gamblin Ashley Edmonson Willson

Class of 1988 Tate Thigpen

Class of 1989 Stacy Bozarth Bates Leigh Barnett Butler Debbie Potter Copeland Kerri Quayle Hawkins Rusty Hawkins Tom Horn Cynthia Burney Mahaffey Jan Laws Nance Meredith Montgomery Travelstead

Class of 1990 Robert Hederman Alan Jones Lewis Lipscomb Scott Pedigo Lee Seago Mary Carolyn Ikerd Williams John York

Class of 1991 Edward Copeland Greg Johnston Suzanne Kinard Murray

56 TRUE BLUE

Class of 1995 William Barnett Guy Boyll Ashley Crawford Brantley Stephen Greer Emily Brown Johnson Kristen Kennedy Nations

Class of 1996 Mysti Futral Chustz Philip Chustz Emily Lambert Greer Angie Stubblefield Haraway Chad Hosemann Natalie Tinnin Lynch

Class of 1998 Lyn Edwards Hines Foster Kennedy Jodie Low Lockhart Michael Ueltschey Rebecca Gough Ueltschey

Class of 2002 Lauren Denley

Class of 2003

John Bussey Max Neely Charlotte Skelton Taylor Patty Commarato Taylor

Class of 2008 Matthew C. Smith Landon Thompson

Class of 2012 Emily Turbeville Thompson Amy Arinder Whittenton

Class of 2014 Madi McNair Scott

Ann Boswell Johnson Carlson Eddie Wettach

Class of 2015

Class of 2004

Josh Hinkle Eliza Lundy

Aaron Graham

Class of 2005 David Barrett Martin Miller

Class of 2016 Clarke Wilkirson

Class of 2019 Truett Brooks Hunter Wilkirson

GIVING

JA ANNUAL FUND

Grandparent Society 2020-2021 Vickie Lynn Adams Deborah Allen Lynn and Leigh Allen Belinda and Scott Armando Sharon and Jim Armstrong Susan and PG Arnold Rosemary and Les Aultman Dee Ball Marsha and Hayley Barbour Linda and Gene Barrett Mona Bostwick Natalie Boteler Donna and Roger Bozarth Barbara and Pat Brower Ruby and N.Z. Bryant Janet and Richard Burnette Lind and John Bussey Becky and Paul Cade Debbie and William Campbell Wanda Carmichael Susan and Ken Chapman Cathy and Mark Chinn Lamar Chustz Patty and Don Clark Beth and John ’86 Clay Katherine P. Cole Phyllis and Don Collins

Marlene Cook Lydia Cox and Roger Fish Carol Crawford Polly Crosthwait Kathryn Curry Dana Deviney Carol and George Evans Ergon Foundation, Inc. Sandra Eubank Teresita and Jerry Golden Mary Jane Greenlee Mary Ann and William Griesbeck Allen Griffin Juanita Ann Harper Debbie and Lee Harris Jane and Robert Hederman Ann and Gene Henson Jean and Scott Hines Paula and Randy James Carol and Victor Jones Robin and Ed Kennedy Lucy and Seth Knight Linda Lambert Deborah and Leslie Lampton Janice Laws Jane and Larry Lee Laura and Tom Lohmeier

Helaine and Thomas Maley Jenny and Pete Markow Corinne and John McCormick Sandra and Mike McKay Sandra and Ken Meacham Mimi and Robert Mehrle T and Bill Miley Pat and Chuck Miner Ann Monroe Maureen and Harold Oriol Julia Parker Jean Anne Patton Vera and Flip Phillips Gail and Steven Pickering Judy Potter Shirlene Priest Joyce Pulley Wanda and J. Reeves Sharon and Tom Rhoden Rose Lee and Joe Robinson Sherry and Richard Rula Betsy and Joe Samuels Kathy and Richard Sheffield Sandy Shorter Linda and Danny Smith Sandy and Lester Smith Cindy and Jim Spencer

Judy and Crawley Stubblefield Bean and Floyd Sulser Martha and Mike Summerford Becky and Greg Taylor Ingrid and Timmy Taylor Kari Taylor Louisa and Tate Thigpen Rebecca and Charles Tindall Martha and Tommy Tyson Jackie Usry Kay and Joe Usry Teri and Frank Vollor Melanie and Warner Wadlington Linda Wardlaw Virginia and Richard Warren Susan and Walter Weems Eleanor Wettach Martha and Murray Whitaker Lynette Wier Bobbie Williams Ginger and Bob Williford Patricia and Mark Wise Isabel and John Wood Myra and Woody York Linda Young

TRUE BLUE 57

GIVING

JAA

True Blue Raiders 2020-2021 Amanda and Kelly Adams Cameron ’04 and Susannah Albriton Randel and Ranella Anderson Angie and Brad Antici Belinda and Scott Armando Lindsey and Matt ’99 Armstrong Catherine and Peter Arnold Valerie and Andy Asbell Lisa and Craig Bailey Ashley and Gabe Baldwin Elizabeth and Al Banks Michelle and James Baquie Reeves Barbour Michelle and Kevin Barnett Annie Laurie and David ’04 Barrett Taylor and Justin Beard Heather and Russell ’92 Bennett Elisha and Chris Benton Bethany and D Berry Aqfa Sultana and Azad Bhuiyan Beth and Johnathan Blackwell Erin and Joshua Blaylock Arlevia and Warren Bowan Janna and Brian Breland Courtney and Andy Brien Kathryn and Brandon Caine Ashley and Norman Cannady Mysti ’96 and Phillip ’96 Chustz Casey and Daniel Cirino Amanda and Trey ’02 Clark Morgan ’09 and Brad Conwill Abbie Cox Barbara and Jason Craft Suzanne and Charley Screll Margie Crumpton Dabbs and John Curley Lauren ’02 and Preston Denley Sallie and Michael Dier Alexis and Josh Dorman Dawn Duncombe Ellen and Charles Durst Laura and Derek Dyess Jamie and Alex Eaton Robert and Melanie Eiland Kimbrell ’05 and Erick Evans Suzanna and Jeff Evans Laurie and Josh Fleming Memrie ’96 and Jason Fortenberry April and Mark Foster Sonya Booker and Gary Flowers 58 TRUE BLUE

Kysia and James Geary CC’s Coffee House Emily and Kyle Godfrey Neeli and John Graham Stefanie and Alan Grant Lindsey and John ’03 Gresham Suzanne ’92 and Cameron ’92 Guild Sarah ’ 92 and Sean Guy ’87 Kelly ’99 and Josh Guyton Anna ’00 and Jacob Haralson ’99 Angie ’96 and Neill Haraway Kristen and Bo Harwell Terri and Steve ’92 Hederman Carrie and Nic Henderson Lyn ’98 and Breck ’97 Hines Roxi and David Hood Patrica Horn Monifa Beal and Nickolas Horton Shea and Richard Hosch Erica and Jerry Jackson Abby and Ben ’04 James Leisel ’05 and Nicholas ’04 Jew George and Whit Johnson Erin and Troy Johnston Scarlett and Brent ’83 Johnston Sarah Beth and Brandon Jones Lindsay and Jon Mark Jordan Quinn and Bradley ’99 Kellum Brandon and Foster ’98 Kennedy Arindam Kesh Nancy and David Kilpatrick Steffi and Barrett Larson Melanie and John ’99 Lauderdale Joy Lester Lauren and Reid ’94 Lester Nicole and Jeremy Litton Ramsey ’02 and Brian Long Jana and Craig Long Brittany Longino Sarah Love Cynthia ’98 and Tim Mahaffey Stephanie ’00 and Colin Maley Ruthie and Will Masey Jennifer and Chris ’93 Mathison Laurie McClintock Tara and Tyson McCoy Lauren and Nick Miller Austin and Martin ’ 05 Miller Stephen Mills Mary Clay and Matt Morgan

Kayla and Seth ’00 Mosal Betsy Mosby Interior Design Allison ’97 and Jess ’98 New Caroline and Jack Nowell Austin and Joel Nutt Christie ’95 and Ashley Ogdon Christy and Shannon Orr Dianna and Tony Patterson Sandy and Charlie Penick Ceejaye and Mitch ’98 Peters Emily and Gary Pettus Jeanine and Steve Pickering Sydney and Christian Pinnen Paula and Paul Pratt Ann Purcell ’01 Farrah and Kimani Purifoy Elizabeth ’99 and Percy Quinn Mandy and Brad ’ 97 Reeves Mary-Crosby ’06 and Walker Roberts Kristie and Chris Rohman Jennifer and Frederick ’94 Salvo Vanessa ’95 and John Pettey Sandifer Jeanne ’93 and John ’92 Scarbrough Tina Shaw Natale and JJ Sheehan Jennifer and Ben ’93 Skipper Geri Beth and Allen Smith Mary Ellen ’99 and Jeff Stancill Mandi and Bob Stanley Candace and Walker Tann Charlotte ’06 and Jeremy Taylor TEC Lee Ann and Calvin ’94 Thigpen Carmen and Adam ’03 Thrash Rachel and Walt Towery Jennifer and Alonso Tripoli Rebecca ’98 and Micheal ’98 Ueltschey Catherine and Stephen Usry Whitney and Slates Veazey Patti Wade Brittany ’05 and Ben ’98 Walker Meri Scott and Hank ’09 Waterer Lynn and Ben Watson Elizabeth and Jason Weeks Kyla and David ’00 Weems Sarah and Les White Kelly ’02 and Louis Wilkinson Courtney and Paul Williams Mary Carolyn ’90 and Brad Williams

GIVING

ATHLETICS

Booster Club 2020-2021 Angie and Brad Antici Catherine and Peter Arnold Jerry and Karen Banks Deidre and Austin Barbour Suzanne and Tommy ’94 Barnette Allison and Austin ’99 Barrett Lauren and Frank Benner Esther Benson Lorraine and Smith Boykin Lana and Guy ’95 Boyll Janna and Brian Breland Kathy and Greg Burgess Jane and Barry Burks Katie and Jamie ’92 Chustz Mysti ’96 and Philip ’96 Chustz Angie and Phillip Coburn Mona and Chris Couey Barbara and Jason Craft Kelly and Blake Cress Anne and Shay Daly Emily and John ’94 Decker Sallie and Michael Dier Tiffany and Alwin Dockins Alexis and Josh Dorman Dana and Gordon Downs

ARTS

Jennifer and McKie ’94 Edmonson Lee Ann ’88 and Mike Elinski Kimberly and Bill Felder Kesha and Robert Flantroy Kathleen and Kyle Gordon Stefanie and Alan Grant Jennie and Brett Graven Brooke and Charles Greenlee Lee Ann and Brad Griffin Katrice and Jeff Hadley Price and Robert Halford Angie ’96 and Neil Haraway Kerri ’89 and Rusty ’89 Hawkins Beth and Jason Hosey Susan and Jimmy House Jennifer and Rafe Hudson Cathy and Gene Huff Kim and Richard Johnson Brandon and Foster ’98 Kennedy Julie and John Lancon Ann Marie ’91 and Stephen ’91 Lee Lauren and Reid ’94 Lester Cynthia ’89 and Tim Mahaffey Jennifer and Chris ’93 Mathison Laurie McClintock

JAAG Donors 2020-2021 Catherine and Peter Arnold Stacy ’89 and Cliff Bates Mary Alice and Steve Browning Mysti ’96 and Philip ’96 Chustz Holly and Webb Collums Chris Eversole Cathy and Gene Huff Kenneth O’Keefe Jennifer and Martin Palomo

Steve Nail Jan ’89 and Wen Nance Kristen ’95 and Lee ’93 Nations Allison ’97 and Jess ’98 New Ashly and Zach ’01 New Ronica and Steve Palato Katie and Tim Parker Allison Parr Jean Anne Patton Lulu and Scott ’90 Pedigo Sandy and Charlie Penick Paula and Paul Pratt Kwanza Price-Young Christy and Billy Quin Kecia and Corey Ray Linda and Reginald Rigsby Stacy and James Roberts Rachel and Craig Robertson Kristie and Chris Rohman Melissa and Scott Runnells Susan and John Ryan Jennifer and Frederick ’94 Salvo Jeanne ’93 and John ’92 Scarbrough Gina and Lee ’90 Seago Stacy and David ’93 Seago

Paige and Craig Sessums Scarlet and Darrington Seward Leigh and Scott ’92 Shoemaker Jennifer and Ben ’93 Skipper Geri Beth and Allen Smith Speciality Metals Supply, Inc. Heather and Chip Stevens Celina and Richard Sumrall Helen and Clay ’94 Summerford Nancy and David Sykes Gay and Danny Tadlock Amy and Anthony Thaxton Crystal and Zach Thompson Cynthia and John Turner Staci ’99 and Brent Tyler Elizabeth and Jeff ’94 Upchurch Kate and Thad Varner Rivers ’97 and Shaun Walker Story ’94 and Todd ’90 Warren Emily and Trey Waterloo Lardarius Webb, Sr. Alexa and Steven Wier Mary Carolyn ’90 and Brad Williams Nikki and Rex ’89 Williams Ashley ’97 and Mark Willson

Athletic Corporate Community Partners ANCHOR LEVEL Mac Haik Ford

Merit Health

Mississippi Sports Medicine

Trustmark Bank

FOUNDING LEVEL BankPlus

C Spire

Cole Facial Clinic

Environment Masters

Fowler Buick GMC

Pepsi/Brown Bottling Group

TRUE BLUE 59

CLASS NOTES

1987

1992

DEBOR A H AT K I NS lives in Bartlett, Tennessee, where she is an instructional support advisor for Shelby County Schools.

Jayce and STEPHANIE BROWN POWELL live in Madison with children, Marcie and Clayton. Stephanie is a teacher at Highland Elementary School and her husband, Jayce, is the co-owner of Bicycle Revolution in Gluckstadt. Jayce was recently sworn in as one of five serving on the Board of Aldermen for the newest city in Mississippi, Gluckstadt.

1991 LEE ANNE ROBINSON lives in Flowood with her husband Ward and two children, Mary Everett and James. Lee Anne is the deputy executive director for the Mississippi Legislative Budget Office. In this capacity, she coordinates with the lieutenant governor, speaker of the house, and all members of the Mississippi legislature to formulate a $22 billion state budget. As the organization’s deputy executive director, she manages 30 employees who perform fiscal and policy analyses and provide information technology support to 300 legislators and their staffers. Ward is the landscape director for the city of Flowood. 60 TRUE BLUE

1994 ROSS WORLEY is an electrical engineer at Nauticstar Boats, LLC. Thomas and his wife Danielle live in Amory. They have three children; Leah, Toni Page, and Doc.

1999 2 AUSTIN BARRETT and wife Allison live in Jackson with their two children, Anna and Taylor. Austin is an

orthopedic surgeon at Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center. Allison is an emergency medicine physician at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Austin is the president of the Mississippi Orthopedic Society and medical advisor for the Mississippi High School Athletic Association. Austin also is the team physician for Jackson Academy. ELIZABETH BYERS and husband Brian live in Oxford with their children, Taylor and Emily. Elizabeth is the Director of IT at Regents School of Oxford. She is also an EMT with the Lafayette County Fire Department. She was recently a part of the first all-female duty crew to staff LCFD Central Station to provide fire and medical responses to the citizens of Lafayette County. Brian is a geotechnical engineer. LEE OWEN and wife Kate live in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida with their three children; Lela, Jane, and Cecilia. Lee is in medical sales and Kate is in network marketing sales. They enjoy spending time at the beach, with family, and anything active.

CLASS NOTES

2000 MELISSA BUSH LILES and husband Leighton live in Nashville, Tennessee with their two children, Wells and Milly. Melissa is a commercial real estate broker with Avison Young and Leighton is a financial advisor with The Liles Group at Baird Private Wealth Management. STEPHANIE BAKER MALEY and husband Colin live in Madison. They have two children that attend JA, Brennan and Clayton.

2001 ANN FOWLER PURCELL works as a nurse practitioner at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. She lives in Raymond. She has two children, Kilby and Clayton, who attend JA. ALLEN TAHERI and his wife, Michelle, live in Ridgeland with daughters, Mina, Lily and Leila. Michelle is an OB/GYN and Allen is the owner and operator of A2Z Printing in Jackson. A2Z Printing has five plants located in four states and has 230 employees.

2002 RAMSEY CRUISE LONG and husband Brian live in Jackson with their three children, Ann Arrington, Carter, and Cruise. Ramsey is the director at Meadowbrook Preschool and Brian is the chief financial officer at Mississippi Federal Credit Union.

1995 3 DAVE and ELISA MOSAL live in Jackson with their three children, Barron, Trip, and John Tyler, who attend JA. Elisa is an AFLAC independent sales agent. Dave serves

as executive vice president of Speed Commercial Real Estate. As a commercial real estate service firm, Speed Commercial’s platform of services is strategically aligned with clients’ goal of maximizing the value of real estate within the format of a single-source services company. With over 17 years of real estate experience, Dave’s primary focus has been on project leasing, brokerage, and investment sales. In August, Dave completed his certified commercial investment member designation. Fewer than 10 percent of commercial real estate investors and advisers currently wear the CCIM pin, making them the go-to experts in their respective markets.

nurse practitioner. She is a nurse practitioner at Oxford Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.

2003

MARY ALEX NAIL DOYLE and husband, Harrison, live in Pensacola, Florida with their three children Harbor, Rosie and Walter. Harrison is a mechanical engineer.

SUSAN LOVE lives in Tucson, Arizona. She is a licensed professional counselor at Whole Self Healing of Arizona. June 1, 2021 she received her independent license in professional counseling and opened up a private practice specializing in the treatment of complex trauma and dissociation.

2004 4 JENNIFER VIRDEN CRISSEY and her husband, Chris, live in Madison. Jennifer is currently teaching geometry at Germantown High School while sponsoring Mu Alpha Theta and coaching girls’ powerlifting. She is also working on a Ph.D. in Science and Mathematics Education at USM. Chris is the owner of Ray Ray’s Lawn Service, LLC.

2006 CHLOE LLOYD lives in Oxford. Chloe finished her master’s in nu rsing educat ion f rom t he University of Memphis in 2019 then went on to complete her post master’s certificate as a family

2009 TORI ARINDER is a physical therapist at Select Specialty Hospital-Belhaven. Tori is engaged to marry Ben Hood, a physical therapy assistant, on October 2, 2021 in Flora. Tori was named The Mustard Seed New Supporter of the Year in 2020.

2011 2013 MEG BOYLES lives in Tucson, Arizona, and is the development coordinator for the Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona. She is engaged to marry Nathan Oakes on June 11, 2022 at St. James Episcopal Church in Jackson. Nathan is a doctoral candidate and professor.

2017 LIZZIE BOWMAN lives in Jackson. She is a client analyst with Ross & Yerger. Class Notes printed here were submitted since JA’s Winter 2021 issue.

To submit Class Notes for the next issue of True Blue magazine, email Frances Bussey at fbussey@jacksonacademy.org or submit and update your information online at jacksonacademy.org/classnotes.

TRUE BLUE 61

MEMORIALS

Memorials 2020-2021 Clyde Richard Adams, Jr. Friend of Lewis Lipscomb ’90 Leslie and Lewis ’90 Lipscomb Henry Campbell Son of JA staff member Bill Campbell Jackson Academy Association, Inc. (JAA) Sarah Love Suzanne, Tate ’88, and Kathleen Thigpen ’23 Ron Cockayne Father of JA staff member Kathy Sheffield ’82 Kathy Sheffield Marjorie Clark Grandmother of Emily McLaurin ’06 Dee and Joe Gex Sharon Clark Mother of JA teacher Sarah Clark Marilyn and Jimmy Royals Harper Davis Grandfather of Morgan Mahaffey Wigley ’00 Pat and Peter Jernberg Scott Denson Father of JA teacher and coach Melissa Denson Lee Ann and Brad Griffin Bob Donnelly Husband of former JA staff member Mary Donnelly Linda and Gus Purviance Virginia Hughes England Mother of JA Advisory Board member John England and JA staff member Betsy King and Grandmother of JA staff member Sandra Triplett ’09 and Virginia Triplett England ’09 Suzanne ’91 and John ’83 Murray Betsy King Patsy Futvoye Mother of Alan Futvoye ’77, Laura Futvoye Barnett ’85, and Matthew Futvoye ’91 Linda and Gus Purviance Edward Glennan Grady, Jr. Father of JA teacher Cori Ciaccio and grandfather of Sam Ciaccio ’18 and Joseph Ciaccio ’22 Susan Ingram Stancie Ley Jackson Academy Upper School Teachers Patti Wade 62 TRUE BLUE

Frankie Heard Grandmother of Andrew Heard ’07 and Sykes Heard ’09 and great grandmother of Carson Heard ’37 Patrice and John Worley Ed Hooker Father of JA students Anna Margaret Hooker ’23 and Win Hooker ’23 and husband of Kimberly Hooker Lee Ann and Brad Griffin Cynthia Dubard Johnston Mother of Greg Johnston ’91, Bard Johnston ’87, and Brent Johnston, Jr. ’93. Grandmother of Gregory Johnston, Jr. ’19, Harrison Johnston ’23, Trey Johnston ’24, and Jesse Johnston ’26 Judy Arnold Kim and Tripp ’87 Arnold Lamar Chustz Pat and Peter Jernberg Linda and Gus Purviance Patti Wade Howard Jue Grandfather of JA students Alexander Patterson ’26 and Ava Patterson ’30 Pat and Peter Jernberg Earl Keyes Father of Susan Keyes Ward ’82 and Grandfather of Krysten Jernigan ’06, Adam Keyes ’09, Franklin Keyes ’09, Houston Keyes ’10, Marion Keys Gowdey ’05, Brett Ward ’09, and Ryan Ward ’07 Linda and Gus Purviance

Frank Kinard Father JA staff member Suzanne Murray ’91 and Frank Kinard, Jr. ’87 Judy Arnold Kim and Tripp ’87 Arnold Mimi and Andrew ’07 Heard Pat and Peter Jernberg Sarah Howard Sarah Love Patti Wade Tony M. Lamb Son-in-law of JA staff member Susan Ingram and husband of Bethany Ingram Lamb ’02 Gloria and Stephen Hirn Stancie Ley Patti Wade Lacey Travis Madden ’99 Wife of Brad Madden ’93 and sister-in-law of Bryan Madden ’99 Judy Arnold Susan Ingram Marilyn S. Madden Mother of Bryan Madden ’99 and Brad Madden ’93 Pat and Peter Jernberg Nancy and David Sykes Patti Wade Chaz McIntyre ’98 Son of past JA parents Betsy and Jack Liles Susan Ingram

MEMORIALS

Ronnie L. Monroe Grandfather of Anna Katherine Godfrey ’28 and Mary Thomas Godfrey ’28 Ann Monroe Sally Turner Pannel Mother of JA teacher Carrie Ann Eatherly and grandmother of Newell ’24 and Wilson ’22 Eatherly Becky and Bobo Clarke JA Class of 2027 Brian Quayle ’93 Brother of JA alumna Kerri Q. Hawkins ’89 and son of past parents Janet and Mike Quayle Susan Ingram Spencer Ratcliff ’09 Son of Holly and Steve Ratcliff and grandson of former JA staff member Mary Ratcliff and her husband Smiley Ratcliff Judy Arnold Gail and John England Susan Ingram Sheila, Ricky, and Adam ’09 Keyes Sarah Love Pat and Peter Jernberg

Raymond R. Stevens, Jr. Father of Ray Edward Stevens ’15 and Drury Stevens Nancy, Ray ’15, and Drury Stevens Gay Street Mother of Simeone Gore ’90, Barry Street ’91, and Asher Beam ’96 Judy Arnold Billy M. Tannehill Mother of Colonel Brad Tannehill ’89 Judy Arnold Kim and Tripp ’87 Arnold Pat and Peter Jernberg Rebecca Tindall Mother of JA teacher Castlen King Rogers and grandmother of Joe King ’25 and Brooke Rogers ’23 Becky and Bobo Clarke Patti Wade Harris Virden Brother of former JA staff member Nancy Alford Pat and Peter Jernberg Patti Wade

Mitzi and John Richart Parents of Daniel Richart ’83 Deena and Daniel Richart

Charles Vivians Grandfather of Maysa Vivians ’21 Stephanie and Timothy Vivians

Jake Spencer Former JA student Class of 2007 and brother of Kimbrell Spencer Evans ’05 Cindy and Jim Spencer

Betty Wade Mother-in-law of JA staff member Patti Wade and Grandmother of Rachel Hudson ’10 and Sarah Wade ’13 Patti Wade

Patrick Welsh Father of Eric Welsh ’91 and Patrick Welsh ’98 and grandfather of Lachlan Welsh ’22 Pat and Peter Jernberg Jeanette Whitehead Grandmother of Neville ’16, Penn ’18, and Yeager ’18 Whitehead Judy Arnold Kim and Tripp ’87 Arnold Brian Whitfield ’01 JA alumnus *Funds given provided bicycle racks for JA’s campus Brian Barnett ’01 Katie Calhoon ’01 Reid Gunn ’01 James Lambuth ’01 Grayson Ridgeway ’01 Will Walker ’01 William Barnett ’95 Janet Wicker Mother of JA teacher Wanda Pearcy Susan Ingram Stancie Ley Suzanne, Tate ’88, and Kathleen Thigpen ’23 Patti Wade Tracy Wheeler ’84 JA alumnus Brian Young ’84

Memorial Scholarships 2020-2021 Ashleigh Arnold Dehmer Memorial Chris and Bronwyn ’83 Burford Beth and Harper Keeler Suzanne ’91 and John ’83 Murray

Scott Branning Memorial Scholarship Susan Elliott Bryan Madden ’99 Lee Ann and Calvin Thigpen ’98 Ana and Patrick Tucker

Mary Sprayberry Scholarship Debra Hastings

TRUE BLUE 63

HONORARIUMS

Honorariums 2020-2021 Avery Anderson ’18 JA alumnus and Class of 2018 Valedictorian Dee Ball Reese ’20 Anderson JA alumnus Dee Ball Nash and Anderson Armstrong JA students Sharon and Jim Armstrong Charles Arnold ’18 JA alumnus Susan and PG Arnold Jane and Thomas Arnold JA students Susan and PG Arnold Debbie Campbell JA grandparent William Campbell Nan and Bill Campbell JA parents and staff William Campbell

Orlando Evans JA student Becky and Paul Cade

Reed Miley JA student T and Bill Miley

Gray Fox JA student Kathryn Curry

Middle School Staff JA teachers Julie Murray

Alex Good JA past parent Theodore Waechter

Julia Lynn Parker JA student Julia Parker

Adams and Baird Kennedy JA students Vickie Lynn Adams

Colleen Roberts JA coach Katie and Jamie ’92 Chustz

JAA Graduation Night Committee: Dawn Ammons, Katie Chustz, Jo Ann Clark, Ali Dinkins, Cyndi Eubank ’92, Leigh Janous, Gina Muholland, Kristen Nations ’95, and Owen Stratton ’89 JA parents Jackson Academy Class of 2020

Caroline and Kate Samuels JA students Betsy and Joe Samuels

Kennedy Nations ’20 JA alumnus Robin and Ed Kennedy

Mason Brantley and Elizabeth Castle JA students Carol Crawford

Adams Kennedy, Baird Kennedy, and Merritt Nations JA students Robin and Ed Kennedy

Reece Burgess JA student Teresita and Jerry Golden

Kay Lane JA teacher Nan and Glen Dear

Steven ’20 Chustz JA alumnus Lamar Chustz

Anna Kate Lucas JA student Polly Crosthwait

Clay, Coleman, Mary Lamar, and Sam Chustz JA students Lamar Chustz

Ainslie, Anna Caroline, Samuel, and Sara Kate Long JA students Carol and Victor Jones

Leighton Denley JA student Isabel and John Woods

Bryan Madden ’99 JA coach Katie and Jamie ’92 Chustz

Anna Spencer Evans and Hutton Ruth Evans JA students Cindy and Jim Spencer

Alyssa, Anna, and Danile Martin JA students Patricia and Mark Wise

64 TRUE BLUE

Honorariums listed as of May 31, 2021

Jackson Academy acknowledges gifts made in memory of faculty, staff, and JA family members each year in the True Blue magazine. To submit a memorial, contact Suzanne Thigpen at sthigpen@jacksonacademy.org or mail your memorial to Suzanne Thigpen, Jackson Academy, 4908 Ridgewood Road, Jackson, Mississippi 39211.

4908 Ridgewood Road Jackson, Mississippi 39211

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TRUE BLUE | SUMMER 2021 | VOLUME XXIV

JACKSON ACADEMY

2021 True Blue Magazine - Summer Issue

Articles inside

CLASS NOTES

TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

JAA AND BOOSTER CLUB

STUDENTS IN ACTION

SCHOLARS

LIFERS

NEWS AND STORIES

FEATURES

ATHLETICS