THE MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI, PARENTS AND FRIENDS OF COLLEGIATE 20222022SCHOOLCOMMENCEMENT HONORS & AWARDS INDELIBLE PAW PRINTS SPARK 2022SUMMER
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LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL 2 SPARK Dear Collegiate School Community, In my remarks to the Class of 2022 at Commencement, I spoke about the choice we have for love and compassion to permeate through everything we do. I told the Class of 2022 that the love they have for their classmates embodies what makes our community special. This love manifests itself in ways both large and small at Collegiate School, and it has been a privilege to help cultivate those acts of affection while going about my work as Head of School. I hope that our graduates choose to lead with love as they move forward as alumni and become citizens of the greater world. This issue of the Spark serves as a way to honor the immense impact the Class of 2022 has had on Collegiate. Each student played an important part in reigniting school spirit as pandemic restrictions were lifted — bringing back the student section, modeling how to be a supportive audience, leading, mentoring and so much more. They have enhanced our learning community and collectively supported Collegiate. As the Class of 2022 prepared for their next steps in their learning journeys, our alumni, who demonstrate such dedication to the success of our students, came back to campus for the Senior Transition Program to offer their unique insights and talents to our Seniors. I hope you enjoy reading about what our alumni gave to our students and the bright futures they helped grow in the process. It warmed my heart to gather and share community with so many of them. Our extraordinary faculty and staff always go above and beyond to offer a remarkable academic and extracurricular experience. With their talents for making engaging spaces for questions and wonderings, they form vibrant constellations for learning. At the end of the year, nine outstanding faculty and staff members retired. They have given a collective 232 years of legendary service to our School, offering guidance and passion to help lead the way for every Cougar. Five of this year’s retirees have spent 30 or more years on North Mooreland Road, and it was my distinct pleasure to sit down with them to host a special roundtable discussion. With hallmarks of reflective insights, they offered pearls of wisdom that I hope you enjoy as much as I did. Although departing from daily life at School, they are forever Cougars, and their legacies will continue. By the time you read this, Interim Head of School William S. “Billy” Peebles IV will have arrived on campus. Billy is keenly familiar with Collegiate and the special place it is. Billy will lead Collegiate towards a very bright future. Collegiate’s strongest attribute is the joy derived from gathering. During the past three years as Head of School, I have observed with wonder everyone in our community — our students, faculty and staff, families, parents, alumni, friends and all who volunteer — as they stepped up in many important ways to continue fortifying Collegiate’s enduring flame. It is that collective effort for which I am so very thankful and which will help continue the work of growing today’s children to become leaders of the future. It has been a true privilege and pleasure to serve Collegiate in pursuit of educational excellence. I’ve learned so very much from every interaction and person with whom I’ve spent time. I wish the entire community the very best as Collegiate moves forward. I am most grateful for the relationships established and the opportunity to serve as Head of School.
Warmly,Penny B. Evins Head of School 2019-2022
Sincerely,Billy
My respect for Collegiate — its noble purpose, its rich history, its enduring values, its ever-devoted faculty and staff, its multitalented students and its caring and loyal supporters — is profound. As you might imagine, I have been asked by several of you to comment on the focus of our work this year. Simply put: We shall strive, with hoped-for help from all of you, to continue to reach determinedly for those timeless aspirations that have been a part of this School’s fabric for over 100 years. These aspirations include:
2. Supporting Collegiate’s great faculty and staff in their critically important work and goals;
3. Sustaining the century old atmosphere of a welcoming community — where we genuinely care for one another, encourage one another to be our best selves and dedicate ourselves to respecting and learning from one another’s differences;
1. Nurturing the character, talent and heart of each of our students and doing all we can to help make them feel truly respected, valued, heard and cared for;
SUMMER 2022 3 LETTER FROM THE INTERIM HEAD OF SCHOOL
5. Continuing our exciting Strategic Planning Process, which reflects Collegiate’s constant commitment to strengthening all that we offer our students.
4. Persisting in the essential work, which is never complete, towards being the School that always seeks to honor excellence in all its forms — excellence of character, excellence of personal accountability and excellence of citizenship;
Already in my early days here, I have been welcomed so warmly by many of you. My thanks to you for that welcome, and a heartfelt thank you in particular to Penny Evins, who has continually been a huge help and support to me as I settle into my new responsibilities.Maywehave a wonderful year together
InterimPeeblesHead of School ABOUT BILLY PEEBLES: William “Billy” S. Peebles IV is an educator with 34 years of experience as a Head of School who knows Collegiate well, both as a Trustee and as the uncle of several alumni. He and Penny Evins are longtime colleagues, and Mrs. Evins worked with Mr. Peebles and the Administrative Team throughout the month of July to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, Mr. Peebles has known all of the Collegiate Heads over the last four decades. His career includes Head of School and Interim Head roles at highly regarded independent schools in Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia and Florida. He has taught a variety of subjects, including history, religion and humanities. He is a graduate of Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Va. and holds an A.B. from Princeton University, an MBA from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business and has done graduate work in theological studies at Virginia Theological Seminary.
Dear Collegiate School Community, It is a privilege to be joining your community — one that I have respected greatly since competing against your scrappy student-athletes in the early 1970s. I have been fortunate to know — and to learn from — many of your School leaders, including Mac Pitt, Julia A. Williams, Rob Hershey, Bev Sgro, Keith Evans, Steve Hickman, and, of course, Penny Evins, whom I have been blessed to have as a close colleague since our time working together at Lovett School in Atlanta.
Kristen O. Williams, Chief Development Officer BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2022-23 Carter M. Reid P ’16 ’18, Chair of the Board W. Hildebrandt Surgner Jr. P ’11 ’14 ’17 ’19, Vice Chair John W. Martin ’78 P ’10 ’11, Immediate Past Chair of the Board William S. Peebles IV, Interim President/Head of School Neelan A. Markel ’96 P ’27 ’30, Secretary K aren Berson P ’23 ’25** Ellen T. Bonbright ’86 P ’24 ’26 Callie Lacy Brackett ’95 P ’22 ’24 Mason T. Chapman ’84 P ’22 Mayme Donohue ’03 Eucharia N. Jackson P ’17 ’19 Peter E. Mahoney, Sr. P ’15 ’19 ’26 ’26 Malcolm S. McDonald P ’87 ’88 Morenike K. Miles P ’24 ’25 Meera Pahuja ’97 P ’30 ’32 ’34 Jasmine Turner ’11*** J. Cheairs Porter Jr. P ’27 ’29 ’32 John H. Rivers Jr. P ’25 ’28 Kenneth P. Ruscio P ’08 Danielle D. Scott P ’25 ’25 Julious P. Smith III ’86 P ’20 ’22 ’25 L. Mark Stepanian ’89 P ’16 ’18 ’21 ’23 Wallace Stettinius P ’77 ’79 ’84* R. Gregory Williams ’69 P ’01 ’04* Turner ’11, Jenkins Paxton Hofheimer
’01, VP/President Elect Sarah
’84, Past President Ginny
President Peyton
* Trustee Emeriti ** Parents’ Association President *** Alumni Association President ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD 2022-23 Jasmine
William S. Peebles IV, Interim Head of School Courtney Martin, Associate Head of School Sara Boisvert, Director of Powell Institute for Responsible Citizenship Mike Boyd, Director of the Arts Erica Coffey, Director of Inclusion and Global Engagement Louis Fierro II, Director of Information Technology
’96, Recording Secretary Beth Watlington Marchant ’72, Corresponding Secretary Stuart Farrell ’03 and Elizabeth Wright ’01, Annual Fund Co-Chairs Patricia Hobson Hunter ’80 and Sagle Jones Purcell ’94, Stewardship Chair Amrik Sahni ’06, Lauren Siff ’02 and Graham Mandle ’08, Events Committee Chairs Lauren Cricchi ’10 and Luke Walker ’12, Alumni/Student Connection Committee 103 North Mooreland Road/Richmond, VA 23229 804.740.7077 / Fax: 804.741.9797 Collegiate School admits qualified students and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, or any other status protected by applicable law in the administration of its admissions, scholarships and loans, and its educational, athletic and other programs. Jack McCarthy Writer/Editor Anne Gray Siebert ’97 Director of Alumni Engagement James Dickinson Creative Manager Weldon Bradshaw Keller BrandonCraigFox ’82 Louise Ingold Ellie KatherineLynchOlson ’96 Contributors Mike WendellAnthonyJoAnnDaveJayJimmyTaylorBoydDabneyDickinsonPaulPrivaskyAdralesRuhRumleyPowellStudio Photography Think (think804.com) DesignThanks to all parents, students, alums and friends who generously share their information, photographs and archives. Please note that Spark magazine is posted on the School’s website and may be available on other online platforms accessible through Internet search engines. Spark is published by Collegiate School. We welcome letters from readers, though we may not have room to publish them all. Submissions may be edited for publication. Photographs deemed unsuitable in quality by Spark’s designers may not be included. We make every effort to return photographs shared with us — please send high-resolution (300dpi) digital images whenever possible (to: spark@collegiate-va.org). Class Notes and Photographs Please send your news and photographs, and we will use them in an upcoming issue. Digital images must be high resolution (min. 300dpi). First Term Muffy Greenbaum ’04 Devon Kelley ’05 Toby Long ’98 Lee Moreau ’95 Rishi Pahuja ’04 Chris Pearson ’02 Tyler Negus Snidow ’80 Chas Thalhimer ’97 Bo Vaughan ’97 Second Term Ben Adamson ’98 Wortie Farrell ’88 Dominique Meeks Gombe ’09 Virginia Harris ’16 Helen Roddey ’16 Elisabeth Arnold Weiss ’86 Harry Wilson ’01 Contact Us Spark CollegiateEditorSchool / Communications Office 103 North Mooreland Road, Richmond, VA 23229 Spark: 804.754.0869 / Alumni Office: 804.741.9757 Visitspark@collegiate-va.orgusatwww.collegiate-va.org
Patrick E. Loach, Head of Upper School Deborah I. Miller, Head of Lower School Phyllis Palmiero, Chief Financial and Chief Operating Officer Scott Smith, Director of Admission and Enrollment Management Andrew Stanley, Athletic Director Tung Trinh, Head of Middle School
COLLEGIATE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
SUMMER 2022 SPARK ON CAMPUS Highlights of Spring 2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Arts at Collegiate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Winter and Spring Sports Roundup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Lower School Moving Up Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Middle School Final Exercises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Closing Celebration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 INDELIBLE PAW PRINTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 42 Spark honors the nine faculty and staff retiring after a collective 232 years of service. CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2022 Upper School Commencement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 College Choices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Legacy Families . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 A Year in Pictures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Senior Feature . 70 ALUMNI NEWS Letter from Director of Alumni Engagement Anne Gray Siebert ’97 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Reunions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Alumni Return to Support Seniors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 CLASS NOTES News from Alumni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 A TEACHER’S TAKE We hear from Middle School Teacher Chris Berry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 SUMMER 2022 5
GIVECAPSTONESCULMINATINGREAL-WORLDEXPERIENCE
G uided by Collegiate’s commitment to responsible and compassionate citizenship, the School’s Capstone program enhances students’ classroom learning in a real-word context, giving them the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to larger communities. The program, which is offered in the final year of each division of the School, encourages students to think critically about their world and the ways it can be improved for everyone. Through this process of community collaboration, students grow both as learners and citizens. Towards the end of the school year, the 4th, 8th and 12th Graders finalized their respective Capstone projects and presented their research. The 4th Grade Capstone, Envision Collegiate, fosters a broader understanding of the Collegiate community and helps establish students’ skills of problem-solving. With an intensive leadership and civic engagement curriculum, Envision Richmond offers an immersive experience for 8th Graders that connects them with the local community. Finally, in Envision Your World, Collegiate’s signature Senior Capstone program, students choose from a number of projects that challenge them to imagine
ON CAMPUS
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After the parade, students shared their knowledge and state digital brochures with their families, which included research on the individual state that their creative headwear represented.
Families, students and teachers lined the Lower School campus in March to cheer on 2nd Graders as they showed off their homemade hats representing all 50 states.
To celebrate Mother’s Day, Collegiate School Kindergartners held a Mother’s Day/Special Friends Tea program. Students demonstrated their gratitude and affection for those that raised them with special treats, songs, handmade gifts and lots of warm Cougar hugs.
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Collegiate 2nd Graders Demonstrate Knowledge and Creativity at States Fair
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STUDENTS GIVE BACK DURING EARTH WEEK
Thanks to the Collegiate Earth Society, students throughout the School celebrated Earth Week both on campus and at home. Through the Earth Society’s detailed action plan, students and families were challenged each day to partake in different activities focused on helping the environment. On campus, students had the opportunity to help with wetland restoration, gardening, nature walks and trash cleanup.
TORCH 5804 WINS THIRD PLACE IN FIRST ROBOTICS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Collegiate School’s robotics team climbed to third place in the prestigious international competition and brought home an award for creativity.
T he FIRST Robotics World Championship is the most distinguished high school robotics tournament in the world.
Out of a field of 3,500 schools, around 400 teams qualified and came together for this year’s world tournament, held at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas. At the end of the three-day competition, Collegiate School’s own TORCH 5804 was part of the alliance that came in third place in the FIRST Robotics World Championship.
TAKE A MOMENT TO COMPREHEND THE MAGNITUDE OF THE ACHIEVEMENT: Collegiate School’s robotics team built a robot that, at the end of an international competition, finished third among 3,500 competitors.
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During a break in the competition, Collegiate’s team was awarded the Creativity Award sponsored by Rockwell Automation, which recgonizes design ingenuity that enhances strategy of play. Collegiate used Autodesk Fusion 360 and artificial intelligence tools to stress map main components of the robot. After two days of competition, TORCH 5804 won its divisional round of the tournament. Before this monumental victory, the team had never gone to the division playoffs — let alone finished victoriously.Thisvictory propelled Collegiate into the World Finals. The team, as part of the Newton Division Alliance, competed in a series of round robins against the remaining top 24 teams in the competition. Their alliance partners were Jack in the Bot from Mill Creek, Wash., The Greybots from Atascadero, Calif., and Team Driven 1730 from Lee’s Summit, Mo. The alliance put in a strong performance and ultimately finished third among the six divisions.“Iamsoproud of our student robo athletes and our School,” reflected Greg Sesny, Upper School Science Teacher and a cofaculty leader of the team. “We just accomplished something I could never have dreamed of. We just finished third in the world! Wow! This accomplishment is not just for the members of the team but for every person affiliated with Collegiate.” The Juniors and Seniors on TORCH 5804 were part of the initial robotics cohort back in 2016 when Middle School robotics and FIRST were founded at Collegiate. Since then, TORCH 5804 has qualified for the FIRST Robotics World Championship three times, but never has the team left such a triumphant mark on the tournament. “This is a very special group,” said Mr. Bartels. “I’ve been working with some of these students since they were in 5th and 6th Grade. We have all been working towards this moment, and this year we manifested this moment. We did it.”
When the tournament concluded and the achievement began to take a more solid form for the members of TORCH 5804, Mr. Bartels noticed that members of his team were crestfallen.
At the district competition, Dan Bartels, Collegiate’s STEAM Coordinator and a co-faculty leader of the robotics team, was honored with this year’s Woodie Flowers Award Finalist for the Chesapeake District, the highest award for mentors in FIRST Robotics. Faculty mentors are there to support the students, who have hands-on responsibility for every aspect of robotics construction and competition. “What the students did was phenomenal,” Mr. Bartels proudly observed after the team took second in the district competition and earned an invitation to the FIRST Robotics World Championship. The spirit of the FIRST Robotics World Championship is one of community and collaboration. Students and faculty mentors from around the world are able to gather together to share their love of all things STEAM. It’s an encouraging environment that gives participants space to grow as students and often connects them to professionals in the STEAM field. “Worlds can give students avenues to professional career paths,” said Ms. Chiodo. “Our students have connected with people from Israel, India, France — people from all over the world. The experience can really be life changing.”
Over the course of the rollicking run, which started back in January when the team began designing their robot, TORCH 5804 has built, innovated, competed, and, ultimately, won as one. “We are a team,” said Kristine Chiodo, Upper School Math Teacher and a co-faculty leader of the robotics team. “Our shirts say Collegiate. We are representing the School at a world-wide event.”
The students spent countless hours and weekends in the robotics lab as a team designing and prototyping their robot. “To have these things that I’ve invested my own time and effort in come to fruition not just for me and my teammates, who have been doing it for this long, but for the School and to help the School progress is just everything,” said Aiden Foster, TORCH 5804’s driver, a Senior whose driving strategy played an important role in the team’s success. “We’ve put in all this time, and then we get to Worlds and everything is worth it — the connections we’ve made, the skills we’ve learned and all of the friends we’ve met make everything worth it.”
“There were tears at the end of the competition,” Mr. Bartels said. “Despite their achievement, our students were sad to see the robotics season end.”
The inveterate coach and mentor, Mr. Bartels tried to contextualize the immensity of the team’s accomplishment. “I told them, ‘It’s not over. This stage is finished, but there are so many ways this will impact your careers, and there are so many ways for you to remain in FIRST and transfer your success here into your success in higher education.’”
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During his 14 years as Associate Athletic Director, Mr. Stanley has played a significant role in the success of Collegiate’s Athletics program. Working to assist former Director of Athletics Karen Doxey in every aspect of managing the department, he has helped research, develop and implement curriculum for coaches, further advancing Collegiate’s teacher/coach-mentor model; has held direct supervision of the Field and Equipment Coordinators; developed and maintained inventory tracking and budget forecasting processes and documents; worked with the College Counseling office on NCAA Informational Sessions to educate potential recruits and their families; managed the schedules for 75-80 interscholastic teams for three seasons annually; and has managed the logistics, communication and operations for dozens of large scale home and neutral site events. In addition, he has helped to further programs and professional development on a national level. “I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to help guide our program into the future,” Mr. Stanley says. “I have been very fortunate to have amazing mentors in Charlie McFall and Karen Doxey. Thanks to their leadership, the commitment of our coaches and staff and the dedication of our families, our program is in a great position to adapt and excel in the ever-changing landscape of athletics. We are incredibly fortunate to have so many dedicated and talented student-athletes across all sports and at every level. Our students are at the center of Collegiate Athletics, and we will continue to foster their development and pursuit of excellence as they grow through their journeys.”
Throughout his 25 years at Collegiate, Mr. Stanley has held many positions. Prior to his current role, he served as Associate Director of Admission, an Upper School advisor, and a Lower and Middle School classroom teacher. Mr. Stanley has coached 10 different athletic teams during his time at Collegiate and serves as Executive Director of Geronimo Lacrosse and Director of Summer Quest Sports. A graduate of the Gilman School in Maryland, Mr. Stanley holds a Master of Education in counselor education from Virginia Commonwealth University and a B.A. in psychology from Randolph-Macon College.
The announcement follows a comprehensive search facilitated by The Finney Search Group, which drew more than 100 qualified candidates nationwide. After listening to the needs and hopes of the community, students, parents, alumni, faculty, staff and community coaches, it was clear to the Search Advisory Committee that Andrew Stanley, who currently serves as Associate Director of Athletics, brought the passion, vision, acumen and values to continue the culture and momentum of Collegiate’s Athletics program. During Mr. Stanley’s participation in the community-wide interview process, he expressed gratitude for the School’s continuous dedication to putting students at the center of our decision-making. He articulated many opportunities for us to build upon strong traditions and evolve to meet the needs of our student-athletes, both current and future.
“Andrew embodies our values of love of learning, excellence, community, respect and honor,” says Head of School Penny Evins. “He is here for the children and supports all areas of their growth and development. His time in all three divisions and his service in different administrative areas allows him to see the importance of school-wide systems and how they can support and further our commitment to the student-athlete and the whole child. He understands that athletics build community spirit and lifelong habits of wellness, friendships and competition. Andrew knows that we have grown and have room to grow, while keeping our great athletic traditions“Andrewintact.”Stanley is one of a kind — in personality, work ethic, energy and his desire to support students, coaches and the School,” Mrs. Doxey says. “I have no doubt that he will lead our program to new heights and continue to create outstanding experiences for our student-athletes. He brings so many great qualities to the table. He is a role model for hard work, preparation and learning, and he always strives to maintain high standards, high morals and intense competitiveness. When Andrew takes on a role he is totally committed, totally absorbed in the moment and focused on the cause.” Throughout the search, input from coaches, students, parents, alumni and administrators have provided valuable insights into the hopes, needs and opportunities for Collegiate Athletics. We appreciate the thoughtful participation from our entire community. It is clear that Collegiate has a timeless passion for athletics, school spirit and community. From the youngest to the most senior Cougars, we are proud of our School’s rich athletic history and anticipate a bright future for the green and gold under Mr. Stanley’s leadership.
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STUDENTS SUPPORT FOX ELEMENTARY WITH BAKE SALE
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Middle Schoolers Get Social During Time Out Events
Over the last several months, Lower School classes were hard at work packing lunches that would then be donated to the Salvation Army. Since 2004, Collegiate’s Soup Stone program has brought community and service learning together for our students to receive hands-on volunteer experience. With help from the Parents’ Association and parent volunteers, Lower Schoolers packaged and donated nearly 900 meals.
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5th and 6th Graders have enjoyed their Friday afternoon Time Out social events, which were organized by the Parents’ Association. With music and games, these great events give students a casual opportunity to hang out together after school.
Always eager to demonstrate their leadership as compassionate citizens, the Class of 2022 wanted to do something special for the local community to give back before the end of the school year. In March, Seniors sold baked goods and Cougars Care bracelets to support Fox Elementary School, which caught fire in February. Proceeds went towards purchasing books for Fox through bbgb books.
STUDENTS EXPLORE PUMP HOUSE PARK In April, to build on their yearlong water unit, 5th Graders visited Pump House Park, which once served as Richmond’s primary water pumping station. Students got to tour the historic facility, test water samples and pick up trash around the park to improve the area. 1st Graders visited the Richmond SPCA in April as a continuation of their yearlong study of community. They toured the facility, met with animals and learned how the SPCA helps the Richmond area. Each student brought a handmade dog and cat toy and the 1st Grade class made a monetary donation. Students used this exciting field trip to discuss ways to raise awareness for the SPCA throughout the rest of the year. ATCOMMUNITYLEARNGRADERSABOUTSPCA
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Junior Kindergarten students celebrated National Pet Day with their own fledging birds. To tie in with their unit on the life cycle of plants and animals, Collegiate groundskeeper Andrew Stanley provided a JK classroom with eggs. Students supervised the egg-hatching process and then observed and cared for the birds for a short time before giving them to Mr. Stanley.
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Marine biology students explored the Chesapeake Bay this spring to learn from waterman captain David Rowe. After tonging for oysters, students toured an oyster hatchery. BAY learn and grow together as a community. In May, parents of 3rd Grade students came to campus for a fun and educational Math Morning. Students were able to demonstrate their math skills and play a number of informational games with their parents. This spring, Collegiate School welcomed 145 colleges and 11 local schools to the North Mooreland Road campus for the 2022 Richmond Area Independent Schools College Fair. It was a great night for students and parents to meet with college representatives from around the globe. Hosts Richmond CollegeIndependentAreaSchoolsFair
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LOWER SCHOOL PARENTS COME TO CAMPUS FOR MATH MORNINGS MARINE BIOLOGY STUDENTS EXPLORE THE CHESAPEAKE
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COLLEGIATE’S STRATEGIC PLANNING TOGETHERBRINGSPROCESSCOUGARS
• Pre-Covid listening sessions with 500 participants
• Think tanks with 155 current parents and 60 faculty/staff
As Cougars, we have many reasons to be proud as we continue in our Strategic Planning Process to build on a strong foundation for a bright Widespreadfuture.participation shows how much our community loves Collegiate and cares about our School’s future. Throughout the process, our dedicated Strategic Planning committee members have maintained their commitment to openly and actively listen to our community. Various engagement opportunities have gathered input from current and former parents, faculty, staff, alumni, grandparents, friends and students. We are grateful to all who have contributed. Community Design Day brought together a wide range of community members, including students, for an energizing day of thoughtful collaboration to build upon prior input and create ideas for our future. Online survey results underscore the broad sense of positivity about Collegiate and our School’s particular strengths. As we enter the home stretch of the planning process, we look ahead with excitement, optimism and lots of Cougar spirit. We look forward to sharing the Strategic Plan with our community this fall. Our Strategic Planning Process included:
• Community-wide online survey with 1,000+ completed including 4,937 comments
•Community Design Day with more than 100 participants
The Collegiate chapter of Cum Laude is a national honor society that recognizes academic excellence and citizenship. In a special celebration the night before the Upper School assembly, the Cum Laude inductees and their families came together for a dinner to commemorate their accomplishments.
Catherine Hill ’85, parent of inductee Jack Hill ’22, delivered inspiring words and advice to the students as they prepared to take their next steps after graduation. Will Neuner ’22, who was elected Cum Laude chapter president by his peers, spoke at the commemorative dinner, celebrating the efforts of the inductees. “This is a moment to be excited for your potential, and with that potential comes great opportunity,” he said. “Whether you were aiming for this recognition or not, this is a chance for you to congratulate yourself and to reflect on all of the amazing things you have accomplished during your time in the Collegiate Upper School. Just as I appreciate my teachers and my parents for helping me arrive here, I am grateful to all of you for taking this journey with me. I cannot wait to see what each of you become as you chart your new path in the coming years.” David Bannard, Upper School Math Teacher who retired this summer after 33 years at Collegiate, delivered remarks to students in the assembly about the importance of maintaining an endless curiosity and a love of learning, which he encouraged the inductees to carry with them as they embark on further academic and professional pursuits. As the awards were distributed at the Upper School assembly, Upper School Science Teacher Rebecca Hottman, the Cum Laude Society chapter secretary, congratulated the honorees for their hard work and remarked how they truly represent the society’s motto, Areté (excellence), Diké (justice) and Timé“Each(honor).ofthe students recognized here today has pursued academic excellence driven by their passion for learning,” she said. “These students have honored personal commitments for respect for each other, the Collegiate community and those with whom they have collaborated beyond our campus. On behalf of the faculty and staff I would like to thank each of them for their contributions to the academic life of Collegiate School.”
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CUM LAUDE INDUCTEES RECOGNIZED OUTSTANDING WOMEN AWARD HONORS CARTER M. REID
Collegiate School Seniors inducted into the Cum Laude Society were honored at a special dinner celebration and in an Upper School
When Head of School Penny Evins addressed the 27 Seniors honored at the Cum Laude inductee ceremony, she spoke of the values of respect, honor, community, excellence and love of learning each of the students embody. “It is the diversity of ideas, talents and outcomes that propel our rich learning community forward,” she told those in attendance. “Thanks to your high bar of excellence and determination, you inspire others in your learning spaces to consider ideas, pathways and undoubtedly stretch themselves a bit further. Thank you for portraying the attributes of our Portrait of a Graduate and for living our values.”
Collegiate School’s Board Chair, Carter M. Reid P ’16 ’18, was recognized in April at the YWCA Richmond 42nd Outstanding Women Awards Luncheon as the honoree in the business category. The School is grateful for the guiding light Reid provides for both Collegiate and the greater community.
COMMITTEEEXECUTIVEASSOCIATIONPARENTS’
Parent involvement at Collegiate is an invaluable component of our School that helps foster our inclusive community, supports our teachers and staff and builds connections with each other. This year, I hope you will join me in supporting the Parents’ Association. Our volunteer opportunities include a range of on-campus experiences while also offering options to participate in exciting fundraising efforts such as the Village Green Fair. Being on campus and sharing your time generously shows our students the importance of giving back to our community. Please contact me if you want to get involved or have any ideas to further enhance our support for Collegiate. Karen Berson P ’23 ’25 2022-23 Parents’ Association President tcs.papresident@gmail.com
16 SPARK | On Campus
The Parents’ Association builds community in support of Collegiate School. They organize special events, give countless hours of their time to volunteer work, support teacher-appreciation initiatives and engage in fundraising. In short: the Parents’ Association makes Collegiate stronger. The PA Executive Committee, led by the new PA President Karen Berson P ’23 ’25, marshals much of this important work. In May, the new Executive Committee held its first Parents’ Association meeting, which was a time of joyful gathering and anticipation for the 2022-23 school year.
INTRODUCING THE NEW
The Parents’ Association President and the Executive Committee are here to help parents discover opportunities that connect them with Collegiate. With the easy-to-use sign-up page located on Collegiate’s Resource Board in PawNet, parents can browse the many volunteer opportunities available throughout the year. Getting involved in the PA is a great way to get to know other parents, learn more about the School and see your children in action. Collegiate is stronger when we all work together.
GREETING FROM OUR NEW PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT
The day began with an enthusiastic burst of green-and-gold energy on the Jim Hickey Track, where Lower and Middle School students participated in the Fun Run while family, faculty, staff and administration, dressed in Collegiate spirit wear, cheered from the sidelines. In the jubilant spirit that is VGF, prizes were awarded after the race and Lower School runners received a homework pass for their participation. For the rest of the day, attendees strolled the fair as they enjoyed fun challenges, the Shops on The Green, The Garden Shoppe, the Classy Cougar Market, sweet treats, a dodgeball tournament, a cake walk, a Lip Sync Battle and raffle prizes.
This year, the Parents’ Association invited incoming JK-6 Collegiate families joining for the 2022-23 school year to the community celebration. Each incoming family received one punch card ticket to enjoy the VGF amusements.
Still beaming after her performance of the song “My Own Drum” at the Lip Sync Battle, 2nd Grader Anaya Samms surveyed the Lower School grounds, looking for where she wanted to go next. Her options seemed endless. “I think VGF is awesome,” she exclaimed. “I want to do the Lip Synch Battle every year. I’m going to go to the bounce house, do the cake walk and get tickets with my friends that came here to support me.”
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Jamie Morris, a first year Collegiate parent with two students in the Lower School, stopped for a moment to take in the festivities. As his children roamed around in search of even more games to play, Morris spoke of how much fun the event was for his newest Cougars. “VGF is impressive,” he said. “The kids are having a great time doing all the activities and winning candy. Someone that won the cake walk even gave their cake to us.”
Organized by Collegiate School’s Parents’ Association, the annual Village Green Fair is a School fundraiser as well as an entertaining community-building event.
The cross-division interaction between students frequently occurs at VGF, where a number of Middle and Upper School students assume volunteer positions at one of the many games and activities. Teams of Lower and Middle School students participating in the dodgeball tournament were able to share laughs with Upper School students supervising the event. One Lower School student, coming from a face-painting station, showed his parents the bright yellow Cougar paw print painted by one of the Middle Schoolers.
Organized by Collegiate School’s Parents’ Association, the annual Village Green Fair is the School’s largest PA fundraiser and serves as an entertaining community-building event. During the perennial profusion and warmth of spring, families come together on North Mooreland“WhatRoad.ajoyful community gathering across the generations with spirited competition and healthy fun,” said Head of School Penny Evins after experiencing her first in-person VGF. “It is Collegiate at its best. The older children are interacting with the younger children, and parents are having fun watching their children play. There are cartwheels, cheers and highpitched squeals. It’s good clean fun and smiles all across campus.”
Sunlight’s spectrum flitted across the sight of tents, inflatables and games spread out across Collegiate’s Lower School grounds, serving as a warm welcome to the opening of the 57th annual Village Green Fair, the first in-person VGF in two years.
“One piece that was important for us was to make sure that this VGF was a great experience for our new families and our new faculty and staff,” said VGF co-chair Lauren Hepper P ’27 ’30 ’30. “It was really important to us that we show them the fullest potential of what the Village Green Fair could be, and I don’t think we could have dialed up a better day or a better experience.” Village Green Fair — and the previous day’s Friday Frolic — takes hundreds of parent/ faculty/staff volunteers as well as Middle and Upper School student volunteers to pull off. It’s a tremendous task, one that takes months of planning and organizing, but it is one that the Collegiate community enthusiastically embraces. “We just really wanted the community to have a fabulous day,” said VGF co-chair Happy Anderson ’95 P ’29 ’31 ’32. “And it’s a testimony to our entire community — from our faculty, our leadership, our parents and students, student volunteers and participants — that everybody came together to make it a wonderful experience. Everybody was ready to be together, so for us I think it was a success all around.”
A JOYFUL RETURN FOR COLLEGIATE SCHOOL’S 57TH VILLAGE GREEN FAIR
Thank you to those who attended in person and to those who participated in the online auction. We are so grateful to our co-chairs, Marshall ’93 and Matt Rigby P ’23 ’25 and Janelle and Aaron Sullivan P ’24 ’26, host committee, volunteers, sponsors, donors and guests for making this special evening possible. We were so glad to be “All Together Now” at the Collegiate School SPRING PARTY & AUCTION 18 SPARK | On Campus
Cougie, Collegiate School’s mascot, woke up exceptionally early on Cougar Pride Day to support every Cougar in the Collegiate community during the School’s fifth annual day of giving. Cougie ran through the Upper School, the Middle School and even Fort Cougar, the Lower School playground, spreading green and gold spirit. But Cougie was far from the only one in the community demonstrating support for Collegiate. Alumni, parents, current and former faculty and staff, students, grandparents, parents of alumni and friends came together to support Collegiate on Cougar Pride Day. Every gift, no matter the size or designation, made a huge difference. Gifts to the Annual Fund support all aspects of a Collegiate education — from books and subscriptions in each of our three libraries to athletic equipment and petri dishes in the science labs. Throughout the day, volunteers such as Sarah Paxton ’84, former parent and Alumni Association President, came to campus to support outreach efforts. Friends and classmates engaged in friendly competition to win various challenges, and matching gifts prompted further giving. “So many of these gifts are given in honor of a cherished memory, a favorite teacher, an excellent class or a special relationship that have come out of a Collegiate education,” Paxton said. “To me that’s what the Collegiate community is all about — supporting a place that means so much to so many people.” “Oh my goodness,” one Collegiate staff member in the Development Office exclaimed just after the early bird challenge concluded. “We raised $39,000 in the first three hours! We are off to a tremendous start!”
COLLEGIATE’S DAY OF GIVING 2022 Reached New Heights of Support 966 donations TOTAL RAISED $322,986 YOUNG ALUMNI CHALLENGE WITH 58 donations FROM CLASS OF 2010-21 DONATIONS58 RECEIVED DONATIONS FOR STUDENT WELL-BEING TOTALING OVER116 $16,000 MATCHES CREATED BY PARENTS AND MET BY PARENTS 10 SUMMER 2022 19
Groups of vibrant students stopped by the Development Office to participate in social media videos, show their appreciation and energize even more enthusiasm. And then, later in the afternoon, during the Alumni Association’s first in-person Cougar Bites event since 2019, Collegiate reached 750 donors to unlock the leadership challenge of $100,000, made possible by 19 loyal Cougars. On Cougar Pride Day, not only did our Collegiate community far surpass our participation goal and top last year’s record-breaking engagement, we met 100% of matches and unlocked challenges. Cougars joined together to give $322,986 for Collegiate, an important investment that makes a difference for our students and for our School. Cougar Pride Day is exactly that — a day of sharing Collegiate spirit and Cougar pride. “It was absolutely incredible to see our School spirit and generosity across generations — from Cougars near and far,” said Head of School Penny Evins in a video thanking the community the following day. “We are so grateful for all your support and all the ways you help our community thrive. On behalf of our School, thank you. We couldn’t have done this without you.”
It was a pawsome day of coming together as a community to support the School on Collegiate’s annual day of giving.
ARTS 20 SPARK | On Campus
In the Lower School, Freelon conducted workshops with students to construct a quilt of colorful tissue paper. The essential harmony of the piece is its variety, the colorful mosaic of tissue paper, which in its mesmerizing range of shape and hue shows the type of innovative collaboration that went into the piece’s creation. “The Lower School students responded really well to Maya,” Mrs. Anderson says. “You could tell that they were really excited by the opportunity of working with and learning from a professional artist.”
In the Middle and Upper Schools, students were able to engage with Freelon in assemblies, where they were able to discuss the many opportunities available to contemporary artists and designers. Freelon also joined Seniors in Honors Art to discuss and evaluate their own work.
Artist in residence Maya Freelon came to Collegiate for an engaging week of creativity and community.
Freelon’s visit culminated in a work of creative collaboration, one that encouraged students to discover themselves as artists. “Art is a subject whose primary goal is to help students trust and invest in their true selves,” says Mrs. Sutherland. “Having a person from the outside come in who is doing just that is instrumental in modeling this awareness and orientation.”
COLLABORATIONCREATIVE
“In general, as art educators at all divisions, we make a concerted effort to bring in professional artists as a means of motivating and inspiring students around a specific project,” says Upper School Art Teacher Pam Sutherland. “With Maya, who worked across all divisions simultaneously, this was an opportunity to experience collaboration — first and foremost the joy of physically making something together in the Lower School. The synergy that comes from her speaking to the Middle and Upper School students in their respective assemblies — with students guiding the discussion to discover what it even means to be an artist — is really valuable. And finally, for Seniors in Honors Art to have the opportunity to receive a guided critique assessing the direction of their current work has a great impact.”
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“The students were infatuated and inspired by her.” That was the general reaction, perfectly summarized by Lower School Art Teacher Lisa Anderson, of the Collegiate School students when visiting artist in residence Maya Freelon arrived on Freelon,campus.anationally acclaimed artist whose work has been featured in exhibits across the country, began her weeklong residency in March and worked with all three divisions of the School to engage in the art of collage and quilt making.
outMeaningMakingofClay
Galloway, a Montana-based potter and professor whose work has been exhibited across the United States, Canada and Asia, spoke with Collegiate School students on Zoom to discuss her ongoing Endangered Species Project, an endeavor to make roughly 1,400 handmade urns with images of endangered species from across the United States. Positioned on floor-to-ceiling shelves, the large urns crowd her studio. On the surface of each container is a detailed rendering of an endangered species. “To see the number of endangered species in that way was overwhelming,” Lucy Barnes ’22 says of her experience speaking with Galloway. “It puts into perspective how many species in our country are endangered. But it was also inspiring. It was inspiring to see that her art was spreading awareness.”
Upper School students in Mary Arzt’s ceramics classes crafted pieces that bring awareness to endangered species in Virginia.
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Compelled by that inspiration, students in Ms. Arzt’s ceramics classes began crafting their own project specific to endangered or threatened species in Virginia. Similar to Galloway, who says she is loath to repeat the same species twice due to the unfortunate abundance available to choose from, the 22 students in Ceramics II were asked not to pick the same species as their peers. “We did this so that we could capture a wider range of endangered species,” explains Ms. Arzt. “As an art class, we are a community, and this project is a collaborative community effort. One pottery piece is not as powerful as a display of 22 pieces. Together, with our art, we are making our voices larger.”
When Upper School students in Mary Arzt’s Ceramics II class first saw Julia Galloway’s studio, they began to understand the magnitude of their new project.
On plates, bowls, vases and other vessels, students rendered each species in bright palettes of underglaze and glaze. In the process of crafting their pieces, students got to know their endangered species well. Thomas Word ’24, who painted duskytail darters swimming on the inside and outside of a bowl, says that the project helped him discover parts of the Virginia creek system that were previously unknown to him. “It’s interesting to learn about something that’s critically endangered and to try creating something that brings awareness to a species,” he says. “I love fishing, but I didn’t know what a duskytail darter was before this, so I feel like I now have a better appreciation for the areas where I like to fish.” When Heidi Albrecht ’24 was studying the long list of regional endangered species to choose from for her project, she thought about how, in a way, she would be continuing the work that Galloway started. “Although we were creating pieces specific to Virginia, our projects are part of a larger body of work,” she says. “We all have the same message, and because certain issues are harder to discuss, I feel that this project helps raise awareness and make the message bigger.” As with all the projects in Ceramics II, Ms. Arzt tries to teach her students that art can have a larger purpose. It can quicken our sense of what it means to exist in the world, and, in this case, it can show an audience exactly who we share this earth with. “There is something really special about this endangered species project,” she says. “It is a powerful lesson — showing students that functional things like a bowl or a plate can still contain powerful material with a message.”
The halls of Collegiate School became an art gallery showcasing students’ creativity in April, with pieces of JK-12 student work on display during the School’s annual Art Walk. This year’s theme, Connect, featured artwork in various mediums, including sculptures, prints, ceramics and drawings.
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STUDENTS SHOWCASE CREATIVITY IN ANNUAL ART WALK
This spring season featured multiple music and dance concerts by students in all divisions. Artists Perform During SPRING CONCERTS AND PLAYS 24 SPARK | On Campus
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& SPORTSSPRINGROUNDUP 26 SPARK | On Campus ATHLETICS
In so many ways, sports serve as a microcosm of life — there are challenges, there are triumphs, there are lessons learned and friends gained, there is love and there is frustration, and, ultimately the greatest rewards are given to those who show up with a positive attitude and a will to work. The enthusiastic spirit that Collegiate’s dynamic Athletics program fosters contributes to the School’s focus of creating well-rounded students and Excellingcitizens.bothon and off the field, our Collegiate athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and spirit during the winter and spring athletics seasons. “I am in awe of our 561 athletes, on 23 teams, who practiced for 13 weeks in 385 contests,” Head of School Penny Evins remarked during the Spring Athletics Banquet. “We are proud of your grit, your teaming, your skills and your character as you focused on competition and the thrill of winning and learning from defeat.”
WINTER
BOYS’ SWIMMING & DIVING 12-2
WINTER 2021-22
ALL-STATE: DeGuenther ’26 (new state record in 200 medley relay); Ferguson ’22 (new state record in 200 medley relay); Kantner ’23 (new state record in 200 medley relay); Jewett ’25 (new state record in 200 medley relay); Little ’25; Skylar Mullins ’22; Scott ’25 (new state record in 100 breast)
2 ND IN PREP LEAGUE 2 ND IN VISAA ALL-PREP: JD Chen ’26; Dalton Jobe ’22; Charlie Mayr ’24; Christian Mayr ’22; Aaron Moore ’22; Hudson Neese ’23; Harrison Neuhaus ’24 ALL-STATE: Chen ’26; Jobe ’22; Charlie Mayr ’24; Christian Mayr ’22; Moore ’22; Neese ’23; Neuhaus ’24
LIS COACH OF THE YEAR: Diane Maiese (diving) WRESTLING RD IN PREP LEAGUE 17 TH IN VISAA ALL-PREP: Braden Bell ’24 (2nd place); Walker Bain ’24 (2nd place); Walker Clemans ’22 (2nd place); David Ding ’22 (3rd place); Jeb Ferguson ’22 (Prep League Champion); Everett Hatfield ’24 (4th place) ALL-STATE: Clemans ’22 (3rd in state); Ferguson ’22 (7th place); Silas Gwathmey ’23 (8th place)
Hudson Neese ’23
PREP LEAGUE SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD: Collegiate School (shared with Woodberry Forest)
1 ST LIS 1 ST IN VISAA ALL-LIS: Amelia Chen ’25; Emory DeGuenther ’26 (new LIS meet record in 200 medley relay and 400 free relay); Mackenzie Ferguson ’22 (new LIS meet record in 200 medley relay and 400 free relay); Emily Kantner ’23 (new LIS meet record in 200 medley relay); Maddie Jewett ’25 (new LIS meet record in 200 medley relay); Bella Little ’25 (new LIS meet record in 400 free relay); Elle Scott ’25 (new LIS meet record in 200 IM, 100 breast, and 400 free relay; LIS co-swimmer of the meet)
3
PREP LEAGUE COACH OF THE YEAR: Mike Peters
GIRLS’ SWIMMING & DIVING 11-1
Walker Bain ’24
Skylar Mullins ’22
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Gabby Deglau ’23 Krystian Williams ’23 David Cheon ’22 GIRLS’ INDOOR TRACK ALL-LIS: Gabi Deglau ’23 (shot put); Giles Ferrell ’24 (1,600 meters); Lauren Lucy ’22 (pole vault, MVP of field events); MK Myers ’23 (3,200 meters); Eliza Stone ’22 (high jump) ALL-STATE: Deglau ’23 (shot put) (First Team); Lucy ’22 (pole vault) (First Team); Myers ’23 (3,200 meters) (Second Team); Stone ’22 (high jump) (Second Team); Ferrell ’24 (3,200 meters) (Honorable Mention); 4x800 (Kendall Boggs ’24, Malone Morchower ’23, Myers ’23, Page Wells ’23) (Honorable Mention) 2 ND IN LIS 2 ND IN STATE GREEN: 4-6-3 GOLD: 2WHITE:1-11-25-8NDINPREPLEAGUE 2 ND IN VISAA INDOOR SOCCER BOYS’ INDOOR TRACK VALENTINE’S CLASSIC ALL TOURNAMENT TEAM: David Cheon ’22; Grant Boehm ’23; Tom Meyers ’24 ALL-PREP: 4x400 (Cam Holdych ’22, Will Neuner ’22, Brandon Watson ’23, Hugh Williams ’22); 4x800 (Walker Angus ’24, Brent Hailes ’22, Neuner ’22, H. Williams ’22); Krystian Williams ’23 (long jump) ALL-STATE: 4x400 (Holdych ’22, Neuner ’22, Watson ’23, H. Williams ’22) (First Team); 4x800 (Brent Hailes ’22, Neuner ’22, H. Williams ’22, Jonathan Yackel ’22) (First Team); Neuner ’22 (500 meters) (Second Team); Jones Brackett ’22 (shot put) (Honorable Mention) 28 SPARK | On Campus
Amani Kimball-McKavish ’22 J.B. Bell ’22 GIRLS’ BASKETBALL 9-14 BOYS’ BASKETBALL 15-12 ALL-LIS: Amani Kimball-McKavish ’22 All-METRO: Kimball-McKavish ’22 (Honorable Mention) LIS SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD ALL-PREP: J.B. Bell ’22; Colin Ryan ’22; Luke Smith ’23 LIS SEMIFINALIST PREP LEAGUE SEMIFINALIST SUMMER 2022 29
Ty Colina ’22 Jordan Gross ’23 SPRING 2022 As of the time this magazine went to press. 1 ST IN LIS 2 ND IN PREP LEAGUE LIS VISAASEMIFINALISTQUARTERFINALIST 2 ND IN VISAA VISAA SEMIFINALIST SOCCER 13-5-1 TENNIS 11-4 SOFTBALL 7-15 ALL-LIS: Virginia Ballowe ’23; Ryan Lewis ’25 (co-player of the year); Keaton Rahman ’22; Addison Thompson ’23 All-METRO: Lewis ’25 (Second Team); Rahman ’22 (Second Team) ALL-STATE: Lewis ’25 (First Team); Rahman ’22 (First Team); Kate Smigelski ’25 (Second Team) LIS COACH OF THE YEAR: Rob Ukrop ALL-PREP: Drew Atiyeh ’23 (#5 singles); Reid Coleman ’22 (#3 singles, #2 doubles); Dorian Colina ’25 (#6 singles); George Simonton ’24 (#4 singles, #2 doubles) ALL-STATE: Ty Colina ’22 (First Team); Graham Bor ’23 (Second Team); Coleman ’22 (Second Team) PREP LEAGUE CO-COACH OF THE YEAR: Karin Whitt ALL-LIS: Jordan Gross ’23; Lily Hartley ’23 ALL-STATE: Gross ’23 (Second Team) COACH OF THE YEAR: Robby Turner 30 SPARK | On Campus
Eric McDaniel ’22 Bobby Marlatt ’22 Reynolds Hester ’22 PREP LEAGUE CO-CHAMPIONS 2 ND LISVISAA QUARTERFINALIST 4 TH IN PREP LEAGUE VISAA QUARTERFINALIST VISAA QUARTERFINALIST BASEBALL 17-7 GIRLS’ LACROSSE 11-9 BOYS’ LACROSSE 15-8 ALL-PREP: Collin Kimball-McKavish ’23; Eric McDaniel ’22; Pearse Riendeau ’22; Hayden Rollison ’23; Hank Shield ’23; Donovan Williams ’22 ALL-PREP: James Beeghly ’22; Eli Petty ’23; Warner Lewis ’24; Bobby Marlatt ’22; Jay Seevers ’22 All-STATE: Beeghly ’22 (First Team); Petty ’23 (First Team); Marlatt ’22 (Second Team) USA LACROSSE ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICAN: Seevers ’22 USA LACROSSE ALL-AMERICAN: Beeghly ’22; Petty ’23 PREP LEAGUE SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD ALL-LIS: Kendall Boggs ’24; Reynolds Hester ’22; Amani Kimball-McKavish ’22; Barrett Rowe ’22; Ellie Smith ’22 SUMMER 2022 31
4 TH IN PREP LEAGUE 1 ST IN VISAA ALL-STATE: Jack Barnes ’23; Tyler Brand ’23; Tucker Smith ’23 STATE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Brand ’23 (shared with two other players) Lauren Lucy ’22 Cam Holdych ’22 Campus
GIRLS’ TRACK & FIELD 2 ND IN LIS 2 ND IN VISAA ALL-LIS: Gabi Deglau ’23 (discus, MVP of field events ); Giles Ferrell ’24 (1,600 meters); Audrey Fleming ’22 (100 hurdles, 300 hurdles); Lauren Lucy ’22 (pole vault); MK Myers ’23 (800 meters, 3,200 meters, MVP runner); Eliza Stone ’22 (high jump); 4x100 (Micaela Allen ’22, Fleming ’22, Lucy ’22, D’yan Robinson ’22); 4x800 (Catherine Horner ’22, Myers ’23, Sophie Sloan ’25, Page Wells ’23)
ALL-STATE: Deglau ’23 (shot put, discus) (First Team); Fleming ’22 (300 hurdles) (First Team); Lucy ’22 (pole vault) (First Team); Myers ’23 (3,200 meters) (First Team); Stone ’22 (high jump) (First Team); 4x100 ( Allen ’22, Fleming ’22, Lucy ’22, Robinson ’22) (First Team); 4x800 (Horner ’22, Myers ’23, Sloan ’25, Wells ’23) (First Team); Kayla Coffey ’24 (high jump) (Second Team); Ferrell ’24 (1,600 meters) (Second Team); Fleming ’22 (100 hurdles) (Second Team); Lucy ’22 (triple jump) (Second Team); Myers ’23 (800 meters) (Second Team); Abby Mayr ’24 (pole vault) (Honorable Mention); Robinson ’22 (pole vault) (Honorable Mention)
BOYS’ TRACK & FIELD
4 TH IN PREP LEAGUE 3 RD IN VISAA ALL-PREP: Stan Craig ’23 (3,200 meters); Will Edwards ’22 (1,600 meters); Will Neuner ’22 (400 meters); 4x100 (Dunning Gould, Cam Holdych ’22, Angelo Parker ’22, Brandon Watson ’23); 4x400 (Holdych ’22, Neuner ’22, Watson, Hugh Williams ’22); 4x800 (Max McManus ’22, Ian Quindoza ’22, Williams ’22, Jonathan Yackel ’22) ALL-STATE: Craig ’23 (3,200 meters) (First Team); 4x800 (McManus ’22, Quindoza ’22, Williams ’22, Yackel ’22) (First Team); Krystian Williams ’23 (long jump) (Second Team)
32 SPARK | On
GOLF 17-6
Colin Ryan - Washington and Lee University, basketball
Mackenzie Ferguson - Colgate University, swim & dive
Jay Seevers - Washington and Lee University, lacrosse
Owen Fallon - Denison University, football
COMMITSNCAAJamesBeeghly
Pearse Riendeau - Depauw University, baseball
Barrett Rowe - Wofford College, lacrosse
Bobby Marlatt - Loyola University, lacrosse
Jalen Pierce - Millersville University, basketball
Amanda Tan - Washington and Lee University, field hockey
SUMMER 2022 33
Keaton Rahman - Denison University, soccer
Hugh Williams - Hamilton College, track & field
Reynolds Hester - Furman University, lacrosse
Donovan Williams - Wheaton College, football and baseball
Ian Quindoza - Rhodes College, track & field
J.B. Bell - Marymount University, basketball Maria Bonwell - Bryant University, field hockey
Madelyn Curtis - University of Richmond, field hockey
Eric McDaniel - University of Mary Washington, baseball
D’yan Robinson - Christopher Newport University, golf
- Villanova University, lacrosse
Lauren Lucy - University of Miami, track & field
Dalton Jobe - Washington and Lee University, swimming Amani Kimball-McKavish - Ohio State University, lacrosse
Christian Mayr - Johns Hopkins University, swimming
Lower School Moving Up Ceremony 34 SPARK | On Campus
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At the Lower School Moving Up Ceremony, Lower School Head Debbie Miller awarded the 4th Graders with certificates moving them up to the Middle School.
FRY CUP Kyla Williams HUGH H. ADDY AWARD Carter Quigley SUE H. JETT AWARD Austyn Ennis DIRECTOR’S AWARD Lukas Deskevich CITIZENSHIP AWARD Baxter Phillips and A.V. Musick ART AWARD Olivia Handley and Charles Horner CHORAL AWARD Carter Quigley and Amirah Diggs-Majied DRAMA AWARD Samantha McMullin and Lukas Deskevich DANCE AWARD Leah Thomas ADELINE COWLES COX MUSIC AWARD Piano: Kyla Williams Strings: James Trabaudo Band: Grace Boak SCIENCE AWARD Laura Teele and Tee Haskell LANGUAGE AWARDS Latin Award: Janey Ferry and JD Chen French Award: Reuben Sievers and Leah Johnston Spanish Award: Clara Totten and Charles Horner Chinese Award: Kyla Williams and JD Chen ENGLISHFERNEYHOUGHAWARD Clara Gould JOHN P. ENGLISHCOATESAWARD Everett McCoy EDUCATIONPHYSICAL AWARD Pierson Harris and Abby Carley LEADERSHIPTECHNOLOGY AWARD Annelies Lippmann and Justinas Petkauskas HISTORY AWARD Justinas Petkauskas and Charlotte Callahan MATH AWARD Clara Gould and Teddy Revere EXERCISESFINALSCHOOLMIDDLE AWARDS Recipients are chosen by Middle School faculty. 36 SPARK | On Campus
SUMMER 2022 37
SCHOOL’S
BEGINS
NEW
This year, Collegiate School added to that celebratory atmosphere with the inaugural Closing Celebration, a bookend to Convocation where the School creates, celebrates and recognizes connections within our community. The Closing Celebration allows the entire School to gather as one Collegiate to say goodbye to those retiring or departing and honor graduates as they embark on new adventures. In May, to begin the new tradition, North Mooreland Road flashed with green and gold as the entire student body processed class by class onto Grover Jones Field. Before the event, Senior parents had an opportunity to share a coffee, gather and socialize with each other, which gave them time to reflect on their own fond memories as Collegiate parents. “Before time marches on,” Head of School Penny Evins said as she addressed the crowd, “we wanted to gather, as one Collegiate, to share gratitude for the many ways we came together and learned from each other this year.” From the podium, Mrs. Evins thanked the parents for all they did throughout the year and spoke of her appreciation for the Parents’ Association’s generous contribution that helped make the event possible. During her remarks, Mrs. Evins paused to celebrate and individually recognize the nine retiring faculty and staff members, who collectively gave 232 years of dedicated service to the School. Grover Jones Field hummed with Cougar pride as those in attendance took in the event, and the culminating growth that one feels at the end of an impactful school year began to settle in. Although the next steps of the Seniors’ learning will happen beyond campus, they will always remain part of the Collegiate community. As a symbol of this everlasting connection, a new Gathering Tree tradition was initiated. An October Glory Maple tree was planted adjacent to Caleb’s Garden in honor of the Class of 2022 and their Kindergarten buddies. As part of the ceremony, a group of Seniors and Kindergartners shoveled fresh soil that was later used in the planting.Following the singing of “Hail Collegiate,” which was led by the Middle and Upper School chorus, the parents, faculty, staff and entire student body lined up along the track to assemble a “clap out” and congratulate the Seniors and the retirees on their tremendous accomplishments and contributions.
“Today is about the people of the School,” Mrs. Evins said. “It is about the students, faculty, staff and the community we build each day with small moments and accomplishments. Together, we bring out the best in each other and learn from and with each other. This gathering is a new opportunity for us to close the year together, to express gratitude for a job well done and feel the energy of our beloved and inspiring Cougar community.”
A bookend to Convocation, the Closing Celebration recognizes the connections and growth within our community.
The conclusion of the school year was marked by an exciting atmosphere of celebration. Across campus, students were demonstrating their talents with year-end performances, athletic tournaments, final exams and culminating projects, and summer break, just on the horizon, was in full view.
COLLEGIATE INAUGURAL CLOSING CELEBRATION A TRADITION
38 SPARK | On Campus
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AnniversariesService 103040 5020YEARSYEARSYEARS YEARS YEARS Dan Bell WeldonRETIREDBradshaw Craig ElyLaurie GoodeCollin McConaghySamantha SlaterCarolyn VillanuevaJere WilliamsSally Williams Kate AnneRETIREDParthemosBruceAhearnLiz BowlingHeather GarnettCarol LewisRuth Webb Douglas JohnsonMissyRETIREDHerod 40 SPARK | On Campus
Amy Blackmer took over the role of Executive Assistant to the Head of School.
Tammy Dunn answered the School’s call in 2020 to selflessly accept the role of Director of Facilities Management, where she led the Facilities Team through the pandemic. Now that the pandemic has waned, Ms. Dunn returns to the Technology team.
Elisabeth Jacobs Carol Lewis
We thank all of
Summer Quest and all Quest after-school programming have been combined into Quest Programs. Neil Etheridge has been promoted to Quest Programs Director and
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Susan Trenkle assumed financial assistance duties in addition to her current responsibilities coordinating the School’s benchmarking surveys.
ChristineMikeLaurieVonitaRomiCameronLindaSheamusKatherineWhitneyLindsayBarksdaleBradleyBrightBulifantColemanCombsEvansFaccenniniGiddingsGoodeHambyHoffman
Amy Leibowitz accepted the role of Administrative Assistant to the Associate Head of School/Special Projects Coordinator.
Jeff Dunnington moved into a new administrative role as our Middle School Dean of Students while continuing to teach two 8th Grade history classes.
Tim Hood, who has been a part-time bus driver at Collegiate since September 2021, has accepted the full-time CDL Driver position.
Meg Evans moved into a new administrative role as our Middle School Director of Teaching and Learning while continuing to teach two 7th Grade English classes.
Elly Bacigalupo, who joined the Development Office in June 2021 as a Database Coordinator, has been promoted to Assistant Director of the Annual Fund.
Sarah Aman Rives
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Jessamy Austin, formerly Assistant Director of Quest After School Care, will now be Associate Director, Quest Business Affairs. Natalie Price, previously a Quest Counselor and Lower School substitute, will be Associate Director, Quest Operations.
Cindy Bowling joined the Middle School as the Administrative Assistant.
Samantha Huber accepted a position as a Gift Officer.
thewishCollegiatecontributionspeoplethesefortheirtoandthemallbest!
s the 2021-22 school year reached its end, nine cherished colleagues with 232 combined years of service to Collegiate retired. Their legendary dedication to our School is remarkable. At Collegiate, we all strive to embody our School’s core values, and these nine retirees have been daily examples of honor, love of learning, excellence, respect and community. Although they are departing from the campus, the indelible Cougar paw print that each of Not pictured: Pamela Lowe and Steve Oden
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IndeliblePawPrintsA
CATHY
His work in the Lower School began in Burke Hall, where his care of the facilities and the students, faculty and staff in those spaces left a lasting impression on all who came in contact with him. His quick wit and caring nature made working with him a pleasure while his notorious love for the Dallas Cowboys and affinity for fishing provided plenty of conversation and connections.
ERNEST CRUMP
Editor’s note: For the profile on Karen Doxey, who retired after 35 years of service to Collegiate, please see our spring 2022 Spark
SUMMER 2022 43
As a natural people person, it would come as no surprise to anyone who knows Mr. Crump that not only is he immensely popular with his coworkers and the students in Lower School, but he is also very popular in his hometown of Cartersville. He would often make connections between his hometown community and his coworkers by including important milestones and birthdates of his friends at Collegiate on the Cartersville Community calendar. It was his quiet way of showing his appreciation for his friends at Collegiate.
Ms. Gregory is looking forward to spending time on her sailboat and with her family. Please join us in thanking Cathy for all that she has done and in wishing her smooth sailing in her retirement.
After 13 years of working in the Lower School, Pamela Lowe retired at the end of the school year. Ms. Lowe began as a Lower School substitute in 2009 and accepted a full-time role in 2010 as a Kindergarten Teacher. In 2017, she made the move to the 1st Grade hall as a Teaching Assistant and has continued to share her many talents with the 1st Grade team. Ms. Lowe began her teaching career as a Lower School teacher at the Lovett School in Atlanta, Ga., and after a family move to Texas, she taught 1st Grade at The John Cooper School. So many children have been fortunate to have Ms. Lowe’s expertise and presence in their learning environments.
PAMELAGREGORYLOWESTEVEODEN
Pamela is the mother of two Cougar alumni — Wescott ’18 and Carter ’20 — and has shared that she is looking forward to spending time with her family. She is particularly eager to have the flexibility to spend more time with her parents. Please join us in wishing Ms. Lowe the very best in this new chapter of her life. The Collegiate community is grateful for all she has given to the School. During the three years that Steve Oden worked as an Upper School Science Teacher at Collegiate, he encouraged our best and brightest Cougars to make exciting discoveries on a number of concepts and topics. Mr. Oden arrived on North Mooreland Road with an impressive 30 years of teaching experience. He had been teaching Introductory Oceanography at Virginia Commonwealth University as an adjunct professor since 1989. He worked at Patrick Henry High School for 18 years, where he taught a variety of science courses. Mr. Oden served as a co-instructor with the Math Science Innovation Center to develop and teach science and math units across the region. During his time here, Mr. Oden fostered a love of learning in each of his students and nurtured them as they developed the skills that prepared them for the future. Please join us in wishing him the very best in this new chapter of his life.
After seven years of service, Cathy Gregory, Lower School Director of Student Service, retired at the end of the school year. Ms. Gregory joined Collegiate in 2015 as the Chair of Academic Services in the Lower School, and, in 2020, she became the Lower School Director of Student Services. Prior to her time at Collegiate, Ms. Gregory spent three years as the President of the Virginia Branch of the International Dyslexia Association. In addition to the decades she’s given to teaching in public schools in Virginia, she spent several years as the Director of Special Education in Caroline County.
Throughout her career, Ms. Gregory has been recognized for her excellence. She was the recipient of the Clarence B. Williams Award for Excellence in 2018. During her time spent in public education, she was recognized on six different occasions as “Teacher of the Year” and “Outstanding Teacher.”
When Ernest Crump began his work at Collegiate in 1999, little did anyone realize the impact his presence would have on the Collegiate community. With the restructuring of the Custodial Department, Mr. Crump retired at the end of October.
It was August 1982, and Missy Herod was at a crossroads. What’s next? she wondered as she pondered her options.She’dbeen a multi-sport star at Collegiate where she earned the 1972 Reed Athletic Award and at Ursinus College (Class of 1976) in Collegeville, Pa., a western suburb of Philadelphia, where she played on national championship field hockey and lacrosse teams. She’d been a jack-of-all-trades for five years at Kimberton School (near Valley Forge) where she’d taught, coached, headed the health and wellness program and served as athletic director. She’d traveled to South Africa and Great Britain to (among other roles) coach hockey and teach physical education.
She’d directed international tournaments in both hockey and lacrosse. She studied sports medicine at Temple University and business at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, and hoped one day to start a sporting goods company that would provide gear designed specifically for female athletes since many in her day wore ill-fitting men’sSheequipment.reveledin the connections, challenges and opportunities to serve, and at this point she strongly considered returning to Philadelphia, finishing her MBA, pursuing her business dream and coaching at the college level. She’d also been offered a one-semester position at Collegiate School filling in for a newly hired teacher from England who was unavailable until she received her visa. So, yes. What to do? That’s when her mother Jacqueline Herod, the executive director of the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and a longtime community volunteer, provided wise counsel. “I thought my job would be to go out in the world and make a lot of money and take care of myself and my family,” Ms. Herod recalled one day recently as she reflected upon her 40-year Collegiate career, which came to an end with her retirement in June. “She’s the one who said, ‘Teaching will be the most important thing you’ll ever do. You might be poor, but you’ll be happy, and you’ll love going to work every day.’ She was right.”
From the time Ms. Herod returned to North Mooreland Road, her career has been a case study in skillfully multi-tasking at NASCAR speed. Early on, she taught, served as Assistant Girls’ Athletic Director and coached field hockey and soccer until the mid-2000s when she stepped back to devote her time to administration and teaching health and physical education. Eventually, she became director of student activities, and in recent years, as the landscape shifted and the demands of the position expanded, she assumed the role of Associate Director of Student Life. Among a host of responsibilities, she served as an Upper School advisor and oversaw a cornucopia of clubs and activities. She directed Pageant, Baccalaureate and Commencement, the prom, countless dances, Homecoming and myriad other extra-curricular opportunities. She coordinated Special Olympics and yearin, year-out found joy in watching Collegiate Sophomores interact supportively and thoughtfully with special needs kids. She has also served as a trusted confidante for students who seek her out for her wisdom, insight, sensitivity and compassion. Despite the complexities of each endeavor, she managed to make everything look so “I’measy.just trying to keep students motivated and involved and find an activity for everybody,” she said. “I want everyone to feel included. I truly believe that’s one of the benefits of this school: there’s something here for everybody.” What’s kept you here all these years? I asked. “The students, for sure,” she replied without hesitation. “Learning from the students. They’ve kept me young. I love coming to work every day just to see the students. The job has helped. It’s changed almost every year. There’s so much going on. I need that stimulation. There’s no way to get bored here. Every day, I think, What am I grateful for? What student walked in here, spilled their heart and left feeling better? I’m the luckiest person in the world because I’ve loved coming to school every day.” You’re still young, I reminded her. If you love the job, why stop now? “I feel young at heart,” she replied. “I feel like I can keep going, but I want to be involved in Richmond and go out and help other people. I’ve done what I can do here. It’s time for new blood. It’s time for people to come in with new ideas.”
Ms. Herod will hardly remain idle in retirement. Foremost on her long to-do list is training Jaxx, her medium goldendoodle and third therapy dog, who she will take to local hospitals and wherever else the need arises. “When there’s been a national catastrophe, a hurricane or a tornado, I’d like to be able to load up my dog and go and do therapy work at a site,” she said. “I just feel like I have so much more to give in that“I’vearea.seen the benefits of dogs helping patients and helping students. I’m an introvert, a behind-the-scenes person. I’m quiet. If I have my dog, people will talk to the dog and ignore me. I feel like I can do something valuable, but my dog’s helping me do it.”
Ms. Herod’s heart, though, will always be at Collegiate, where she’s transformed that temporary gig into a distinguished career defined by doing right by students and colleagues, perpetuating time-honored traditions and paying forward the gifts of her mentors: her coaches Gwen Donohue and Mary Grubbs, the venerable Catharine Flippen and Julia Williams, who succeeded Mrs. Flippen in 1972 as head of the Girls“Mrs.School.Flippen was a big influence,” Ms. Herod said. “I think that’s a big part of who I am. She emphasized doing for others without expectation of reward or approval. That’s why I think it’s important to be in the background. In all of her talks to us, she emphasized doing the right thing. If someone needs help, you give it. Sit with the person who’s sitting alone. A kind word never hurts anybody. She made a big difference in my life.” Light of Missy Herod Missy Herod’s distinguished career at Collegiate has been defined by doing right by students and colleagues. By Weldon Bradshaw HEROD 40YEARS AT C
The Guiding
MISSY
OLLEGIATE 44 SPARK | Feature
What’s kept you fresh, motivated and willing to learn as your students have learned? I asked. “Some of it,” he said, “is developing new courses. Math modeling is one. It’s basically taking the math you know and applying it to big problems. For example, over the course of the last 20 years, Lake Mead in Colorado at the base of the Colorado River is down to about 36 percent of its maximum level. How do you fix that? Or how do you fight the wildfires in California? The problems end up being more specific than that. The problem descriptions will be a page long. It’s not a 15-minute problem. It’s a two-week problem. It’s a research problem. Students will write five-to-20-page solutions. The solutions are quite complex.” What motivates kids to take Math Modeling? I asked.“They find that the independence is wonderful,” Mr. Bannard replied. “A major element is group work. They have to work with three other people to solve the problem. That means they’re collaborating. It’s very much what they’ll have to do in the future.” He also mentioned another creation called fractal“It’sgeometry.thegeometry of nature,” he explained. “The geometry we learned in high school is the geometry of flat surfaces, Euclidean geometry. It doesn’t explain very well the bark of trees, the geometry of clouds, of mountains…basically of nature. That’s a whole new geometry. Ninety-nine percent of it has been developed since 1980. It’s fascinated me ever since. It’s been a source of my continued intellectual growth and interest. To me, it’s been important to find an interest that goes beyond what you taught last year. Change a couple of percent each year.” What advice would you give the 22-year-old David Bannard? I asked. “I did get great advice,” he said. “The key intellectually has been to keep learning and trying new things.”
DAVID BANNARD 33YEARS AT C OLLEGIATE SUMMER 2022 45
Just as Mr. Bannard’s passion for math, teaching and bringing out the best in his students has influenced generations of young men and women, likewise he’s drawn inspiration from mentors whom he feels inculcated in him the love for teaching math. One was Groton colleague John Choate, whom he references as “one of the most influential and really inspiring math minds I have ever met.”
At about the same time, he began three-plus decades of teaching for a week each summer in the Exeter Mathematics Institute at Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire. In the early days, when the event was called the Anya Greer Conference for Mathematics and Technology, he connected with colleagues who had grown up as he had before the advent of rapidly emerging modern technology but were fascinated by the myriad possibilities and undaunted by the challenges created by seismic change. “We were figuring it out on the fly, absolutely,” he said. “It was fun. I was working with a lot of really smart, good people, some of the best and most innovative minds in the country. One summer, someone did a session on SMART Boards, which were brand new at the time. I came back and asked Patrick [Loach, Head of the Upper School who then oversaw Collegiate’s technology initiatives], if there was money in the budget for one. He got me one around November. Basically, that’s how SMART Boards came to Collegiate. I learned about it by just playing with it that week at Exeter.”
David Bannard , who joined the Collegiate School faculty in 1989, has maintained a passion for math and teaching that has brought out the best in students. By Weldon Bradshaw
When David Bannard began his teaching career way back in the fall of 1969, technology in schools consisted of little more than a manual typewriter, overhead projector, slide rule and a hand-cranked mimeograph machine. Mr. Bannard made do, of course. Every teacher did in those days because those antediluvian devices were all that were available and only the most nimble and creative minds could envision anything more advanced. Life was about to change. “A huge influence on my teaching has been the development of technology,” said Mr. Bannard, an Upper School Math Teacher who retired in June after 53 years in education, the last 33 at Collegiate. “About three or four years into my career, calculators became available. Ten years in, we got desktop computers. That really changed my approach to teaching.” A native of Long Island, Mr. Bannard graduated from The Hill School in Pottstown, Pa., then earned a B.A. in economics from Yale and an M.A.T. in mathematics from C.W. Post University. “When I was interviewing for college,” he said, “the admission officer (at Yale) asked me the question, ‘What do you want to do?’ I said that I probably wanted to go into business like my father but I was also considering teaching because I’d had fun running camps in the summer. He said, ‘If I have any advice to give you, I’d say try teaching first because you’ll get better experience and responsibility than you’ll get in any other job, and you can always switch very easily.’ Spring of Senior year, I had no idea what I wanted to do. That’s when I decided, What the heck, I’ll give teaching a try. Never stopped.”
A Knack for Discovery
As this master teacher and mathematics guru neared the conclusion of his long, productive and meaningful career, one in which he’s earned both the Joanne Pratt Award for Teaching Excellence (2006) and the Ann Griffin Award for Excellence in Teaching (2018), he continued to approach each day with alacrity and dedication. What is it about teaching that excited you way back when and continues to excite you 53 years later? I “Originally,”asked.hebegan, “it was the ability to be creative, to work with kids and decide every day what I was going to do and how I was going to get things across in a way that kids understood. It was the idea that it was a challenge every day.”
In the mid ’80s, Mr. Bannard began working with a group at the North Carolina School of Science and Math. “We were trying to figure out how to incorporate technology into the teaching of math,” he said. “We tried to introduce math concepts through problems rather than teach math concepts and do problems with them.”
“It’s everything from scheduling to work orders, reservations, box office manager, ticket sales for everything,” she says, naming just a few of the myriad tasks she’s undertaken with her good humor, unflappable demeanor, grace and legendary organization. “For many years, I helped with costumes for the 8th Grade and Upper
I can still hear the night noises.
The engine-hum of cars careering down a two-lane stretch of Rt. 460, then the flash of their headlights in the darkness and roar of their engines as they round the nearby curve, then the screech of their tires when the driver finds that curve sharper than he expected. The train rumbling along the tracks far off in the distance, then the clanging of the caution bells as the gates lower, then the sharp blast of the train’s air horn just before it passes the intersection with the town’s main drag and speeds off into the night. Where’s it going? my pre-teen self with a great big world ahead of him always wondered. How awesome would it be to jump aboard and hang on for dear life and feel the cool wind blowing in my face? Where would I get off? The next town? The one after that? Or the next? Or maybe I’d ride forever.
WELDON BRADSHAW 50YEARS AT C OLLEGIATE
The never-a-dull-moment job, which involves coordinating with Collegiate faculty and staff as well as outside organizations, is multifaceted, and that is right up Mrs. Parthemos’s alley.
Since 1992, Kate Parthemos has given her time and energy to the School in a variety of ways. By Weldon Bradshaw
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The crickets chirping in my grandmother’s side yard. Owls hooting in the woods across the way. The rustling of the leaves on the giant magnolia trees outside the second-floor bedroom window of the house in the country where my father grew up, moved away, but truly never left.
Kate Parthemos’s Humble Service
Service for the Soul
I never took that leap of faith, not in a literal sense,Withanyway.thepassage of time, though, I’ve reflected often on those long-ago images, especially when a far-away locomotive whistle pierces the clear night air, then offered a prayer of humble gratitude for a sometimes challenging, often exhilarating and always meaningful journey that became my 50-year stopover at Collegiate. All that said, teaching and coaching wasn’t my original career choice. Sports writing was, and in my first two years out of the University of Richmond, I learned the craft from the best in the business at the Richmond News Leader. As a junior and senior at UR and during my second year at the newspaper, I also coached what we now call Cub sports and somehow got this crazy idea that I could save the world. In 1972, Collegiate advertised for a Boys School English teacher and coach. I applied and interviewed. The pool of applicants was shallow, and I received an offer. Assured that I could freelance, I took the plunge, promising myself (and Jennings Culley, my editor) that I’d stay three years max, then return downtown and resume my journalismInterestingcareer.how things work out, isn’t it?
The path that brought Kate Parthemos ’71 back to Collegiate School 30 years ago was both circuitous and really, really interesting. Let’s start with the “back to” part. A 1971 Collegiate alumna, Mrs. Parthemos is the eldest of six siblings — including Rives Fleming ’83, a longtime teacher, coach and advisor — who spent 13 years each on North Mooreland Road. She was in the second class of women to matriculate at the University of Virginia where she graduated with a B.A. in religious studies before she ventured into the working world. That’s where “circuitous” and “interesting” begin. Adventuresome, too. Between college and her return to Collegiate in 1992, she worked a variety of jobs from resident manager for an apartment complex in Charlottesville to manager of the Dale Carnegie office in Cincinnati to banking to gate agent for Delta to driving trucks on the tarmac, loading baggage and fueling airplanes for Piedmont at RIC. Yep, you heard right: fueling airplanes. “I’d just gotten back to Richmond,” she says with a smile, which, by the way, is a constant part of her countenance. “‘Ramp rat’ was the opening they had. I carried an extra ladder on the truck so I could get up to the bottom of the ring with this fire-hose size gas hose. I was actually the first girl to fuel an airplane at the Richmond airport. It was a good group of people that I worked with. Everyone was a lot of fun.” She moved next to the Pine Factory where she served as both a store manager and construction manager. Her first Collegiate assignment was as receptionist in the Lower School. Two years later at the behest of Dr. Bob Sedivy, vice-president for finance, she relocated across campus to oversee the Cougar Shop, which at that time handled textbooks, supplies and a handful of spirit items. After 17-plus years, she moved once again, this time to the Hershey Center, where she assumed the role of Fine Arts Assistant to support the performing arts and, over time, all arts-related endeavors.
For 50 years, Weldon Bradshaw has served as a link to Collegiate’s past, keeping alive the spirit of those who set the tone for the School of today. By Weldon Bradshaw
My gosh, where to begin? Sitting inconspicuously on the back row at my first faculty meeting (beside Charlie McFall as he drew up football plays), I listened as the venerable Malcolm U. Pitt Jr. referenced Collegiate as a Family School. Though I’d never heard the term, I quickly learned that “Family” was a theme that permeated the institution’s culture and manifested itself every day in many ways. It came to life in the form of mentorship, and in the early days when I needed all the help I could get, there was no shortage of guiding lights to show me thePeteyway.Jacobs, the Athletic Director, espoused sportsmanship, competitive spirit, fair play, loyalty, honor and respect and through both words and bearing set the tone for our program that lives on today.
country and track, for most of my professional life. Our teams have enjoyed success and earned the respect of our competitors, but the true joy has been seeing young men and women challenge their limits, find strength, endurance and courage that they might not have believed they had, and apply the lessons of sports to life beyond the arena.
I’ve been blessed for 21 years to share with our community the “Reflections” column, which, according to my original charge, “reflects” the soul of our school, and I’ve been blessed that so many friends have trusted me to tell their stories.
I’ve been blessed to share the journey with dedicated, resilient and inspiring colleagues, many Collegiate graduates themselves, with parents who entrusted their children to our care, and for almost 36 years with Emily, my wife and soulmate, who brightened her 3rd Grade classroom for three decades and who has stood steadfastly beside me through victory and defeat and kept the promise for better and for worse and in sickness and in health.
Richard Towell, a math teacher par excellence, became a big-brother type sounding board who, when I’d get frustrated and start yet another I’mgoing-back-to-the-newspaper rant, reminded me why teaching was a calling rather than a job.
When the 2021-22 term came to a close, Mrs. Parthemos retired, which for her had little to do with slowing the pace. It means more time for family. She and Stel, a retired county attorney in Chesterfield, have been married almost 35 years, and their son Chris, a 2006 graduate, and his wife Emily Helft and much of her extended family live in town. It also means opportunities for travel, catering, gardening and volunteering in the food pantry at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Ginter Park as well as attending and pitching in with the behind-the-scenes management of Collegiate events that have been part of her life for so long. Working behind the scenes is her modus operandi and a labor of love. That’s where she’s happiest. That’s where she’s most fulfilled. For Mrs. Parthemos, you see, it’s never been about attention although in 2021 she received it in the form of the Anne Jones Staff Award for her loyal and exemplary service. “I like being helpful and useful,” she says. “When you support people by making their lives easier, you’re making your own life easier.”
School plays. Now, it’s just the 8th Grade play but supporting the people who come from outside to do the Upper School plays. If there’s an event in this building, I’m here.”
30YEARS AT C OLLEGIATE KATE PARTHEMOS SUMMER 2022 47
I’ve been blessed to teach many talented, motivated 7th Grade guys, but the true joy of the classroom experience has been helping that reluctant, anxious, back-row 13-year-old unlock his gifts and find his voice.
Even when it comes to the simple, unglamorous, mundane tasks like rearranging rooms or marking seats in Oates Theater or coordinating transportation or “bearding” kings for the Pageant or schlepping music stands and chairs to the Grover Jones Field for a pep rally or Convocation or conducting temperature checks or assisting with afternoon pickup or…the list goes on? “It’s not a big deal for me,” she says. “If I’m here and I can do it, I will. Things need to happen. I’m happier in the background than in the limelight. There’s satisfaction seeing the job done well and seeing things go smoothly and supporting the people I’m here to support. I’m happiest when this place is working well. That’s when I’ve done my job right.”
And as the years became decades, I’ve been blessed to serve as a link to our past, keep alive the spirits of those who set the tone for the Collegiate of today and perpetuate through humble stewardship a culture built on trust, honor, integrity, and mutual respect which will, I am confident, endure forever.
Humble service, I observed as we were finishing our conversation, seems part of your DNA. “You want to give back to the places and people you care about,” she says. “I feel like I’ve been so lucky to work in a place that I love with people I love. Every time I’ve switched jobs here, I’ve thought it was the best job. I definitely know the past 10 years have been the best part. Being in this building with these talented and creative people…that’s fed my soul.”
The Family School concept came to life, too, in the form of abiding support and uncommon kindness when life got tough. Over the years, we’ve experienced trials and tragedies within our School community and on a larger scale, but we’ve instinctively and invariably rallied to protect, encourage and care for one another, even in the darkest hours.
The Family School concept came to life, too, as blessings bestowed quietly, humbly and graciously: friends taking time to listen or sharing goodnatured repartee at the lunch table, students saying “thank you” when they leave a classroom or offering a heartfelt “good morning” when they pass in the hall, or a graduate sharing a moment, sometimes amusing, sometimes poignant, from years past that made a positive and indelible impression. Times have changed, of course, since that day a half-century ago when I began this journey with the men and women who would become icons. Faces have changed. Methods have changed. Our School has changed, that’s for sure, but the time-honored mindset of incrediblyotherwell-but-what-we-do-best-is-take-care-of-each-we-do-many-things-hasn’t.Forthat,ourpredecessorswouldbeproud.ServingCollegiatehasbeenanhonor.I’vebeenblessedtocoach,mostlycross
Ned Fox, the Boys School head and my English guru, conveyed firmly but gently that I was a teacher first and coach second (rather than the other way around) and helped me understand that I could derive as much satisfaction from nurturing students to value grammar, write well and appreciate literature as I could from training them to excel in the athletic arena. Bill Reeves, Ned’s successor, brought extraordinary compassion, gentleness and wisdom, modeled tolerance and respect, played to our strengths (although, with me, he had few to play to) and brought out the best in all of us.
Jim Hickey, the legendary track coach and quintessential guide on the side, taught me the importance of surrounding myself with good, dedicated colleagues, empowering them to perform their duties and having a lot of fun along the way, all lessons that paid great dividends as I grew in the profession and spent 48 seasons as a head coach in three varsity sports.
Of course, even though you are retiring, you never really leave the Collegiate community, and your service will be felt for years to come. That being said — what is the one thing you will miss most about working at Collegiate?
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MISSY HEROD: For me it’s the children. Talking to them in the halls, connecting with them when they come into my office — I’ll miss all those conversations.
MISSY HEROD: My mother was a mentor to me. When Collegiate called, my mother pointed out that I could be far more satisfied by staying in education. Julia Williams, who was Head of the Girls School when I returned to Collegiate, taught me grace and poise under pressure. Gwen Donohue was Director of Athletics when I was here and she was remarkable. I saw how she never gave up on a student. She taught me that inside every student you just have to unlock the door and let them out, to stick with it and never give up on a student.
DAVID BANNARD: The kids are always number one, and my colleagues are a close second. I will certainly miss the collegiality of having lunch together and all the other moments of bonding with your peers.
KATE PARTHEMOS: Obviously the kids. I’ll miss seeing those faces come in the door and hearing them greet each other.
WELDON BRADSHAW: I think what we’re all saying — albeit in different ways — returns to the reason why we got into this profession in the first place: to teach kids, coach kids and share the experience with colleagues. And all these years later the reasons are still the same. Things may have changed but the reasons are still the same. During your time at Collegiate, you have been tremendous mentors to so many members of our community. Who were some of your mentors? What did you learn from them?
Five of this year’s retirees have given 30 or more years of service, each having contributed in legendary ways, including opting to continue working through the pandemic in order to help their beloved School navigate. Recently, this extraordinary group sat down with Head of School Penny Evins to reflect on their years at Collegiate and hopes for the future of our School.
KAREN DOXEY: I think so much of being an educator begins with how you relate to students and how important it is that we are both challenging them and also really supporting them. That has been Collegiate’s focus forever, and it is the thing I cherish the most, because, in that way, you felt that you really could have an impact. You can support the students but you also need to challenge them so that they can grow. That’s what my mentors have taught me.
WELDON BRADSHAW: There are many mentors. I found myself in the midst of Petey Jacobs, Mac Pitt and Jim Hickey. They taught me how to deal with winning and losing in the right ways, about loyalty, about sportsmanship, about, with Coach Hickey, how to take a large staff of people and empower them to do the best they could. There’s Ned Fox, who taught me from the beginning that I was a teacher-coach — not a coach-teacher — and that I could get as much enjoyment out of teaching a kid to be better at English as I could helping them on the athletic field. There’s Bill Reeves, who saved my life in numerous ways. When he came here, in 1976, he used the phrase “academic excellence with compassion.” He modeled compassion as well as anyone I have ever known along the way. He was such a gentle, calm presence that made the community better. I think any of us that have been at this a while could go on and on and on about mentors.
Retiree Roundtable
DAVID BANNARD: I think back to one 7th and 8th Grade teacher and baseball coach that I had growing up. He just got me excited about learning. I also had a high school math teacher that got me excited about math and helped me understand that learning can be fun. And three colleagues in particular — one from Groton, one from North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics and one remarkable geometer from Atlanta — all of them helped me with the idea that the great problems are the problems where there should always be more questions.
KAREN DOXEY: Our kids, our coaches and our parents do such a good job of being respectful and being classy both within and outside our community. Continuing that sportsmanship — treating others with respect — and relating it all back to your values, is important. That’s been what is so great about Collegiate. You feel very confident about sticking with your values because they are so important. People here at Collegiate really believe in the mission, and that’s why it has been such a great place to work. You always want to tap into opportunities like teaching leadership through athletics and continue that growth. There are more things Athletic Directors can do to make the experience even better. The School does a great job already, but you can never have enough.
KATE PARTHEMOS: I’ve been lucky enough to see my son on stage perform everything from Oberon in Midsummer Night’s Dream to the peddler in Oklahoma!. To see him learn from teachers I’ve had myself speaks to the community of Collegiate. Connections like that make Collegiate really special.
DAVID BANNARD: I’ve got to say that my favorite memories are from being in the classroom. You remember a lot of the incredible, talented kids, but I think I remember more of the kids that struggled. Being able to form a relationship with them and get them doing things they didn’t think they could do and helping them see their potential — that is something really special, and it’s something I’ll always remember.
WELDON BRADSHAW: Echoing what David said: Taking the kid that is a reluctant runner and seeing them running when they are adults, or getting an email from them once they’ve graduated saying that they’re still at it. Those moments of helping, in some small way, create a culture of fitness. Or having a kid that didn’t like to write at the beginning of the year and seeing them find joy in writing. On a personal note, during maybe at the lowest point in my life, in 1985, going to the faculty picnic as a single parent with a couple of sons and meeting a single parent that was a Lower School Teacher with a couple of daughters, and thinking I’d never get involved again. Well, we’ve been married for 35 years now… To share the journey both personally and professionally with her has been nothing short of amazing. So much of my life has been changed by experiences here and I could not have asked for any better.
DAVID BANNARD: I think the community is one of the critical values here. I think we have a community that really cares about each other. We have a place where kids can be themselves and where they feel like they can be what they are growing up to be. I hope we can keep that.
DAVID BANNARD: I’ve learned that, with creativity and skill, students will always go beyond expectations. That has been fun about running Math Modeling for all those years: seeing students doing great work and making discoveries.
KAREN DOXEY: For me, the best memories come from the reality of how far we’ve come. My very first years here we had just gone co-ed, and we’ve come a long way in supporting each other, cheering for each other, going to see each other’s games and respecting each other. It’s been really fun to see that progression.
KATE PARTHEMOS: To Karen’s point: If you have high expectations, these students will live up to them — and exceed them. When you see these kids come in and find what they are passionate about and blossom it is so exciting to
MISSY HEROD: The students have taught me so much, such as: how to use my cellphone, how to take short cuts on my laptop, the lyrics to the latest songs the kids are singing. They taught me how to be a better teacher. I grew up in a time when teachers felt they had to have control in their class, and my students have shown me that some of my best classes are when you let the kids lead. They’ve taught me how lucky I am to have this job and how lucky I’ve been to watch them grow up.
MISSY HEROD: That’s easy! Standing in the back of Commencement — you [Penny Evins] were next to me — and watching all the students standing up, embracing each other and singing “Hail Collegiate” together. I will always remember that.
We have incredibly brilliant students at Collegiate. I often think of it as a symbiotic relationship — that the students teach us just as much as we teach them. What are some things that students over the years have taught you as an educator?
KAREN DOXEY: The kids along the way have taught me so much. As a coach, I realized how talented and creative our students really are. When I had a really good set of captains, I knew that the kids were the real leaders. Our students can do so much more if you just let them take on challenges.
WELDON BRADSHAW: The best teams are the ones that have good leadership within the team. Sure, you give them direction. Sure, you give them a practice plan. Sure, you tell them when to meet the bus. But if you’re confident enough in what you’re doing that you can let the team leaders lead, then that’s when you have something very special. To see students dig down deep and be there for their teammates and support each other — it’s something I’ve seen reinforced each year and it’s one of the reasons coaching has never really gotten old. To be in a position to see kids flourish and find something within themselves and see those smiles on their faces — that’s just something special. What is one aspect you hope will never change about the School? And what are some of your hopes for the future of the School?
WELDON BRADSHAW: You stay around here long enough and you deal with some challenges. I’ve found, over the years, through all of that, that this has been home — very much home. I hope that anybody feels that way — whether they’ve been here as long as any of us have or if they’ve just walked in the door. People here take care of each other. I often use the metaphor of the baton relay race. It’s the idea of taking the best you have and giving it to the next person. All of us, together, make each other better. I’m very proud to be connected to Collegiate. I’m very proud to wear Collegiate gear out in the community, and being part of this community is something very special. What are some of your favorite memories of working at Collegiate?
MISSY HEROD: I think honor has always been big at Collegiate. If you go back to the School’s founding, you find that honor pops up everywhere. Integrity is there, too. I can remember signing the Honor Code at the Upper School Honor Council when I was in 5th Grade, It just sticks with you. I would like to see us continue with those values. I think we have to make decisions based on the best interest of our students rather than listening to the other voices out there. We have to continue doing what is right, what is just and what is in the best interest of our students, because we want to make sure they can go out and make a difference in the world for the better.
WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW SUMMER 2022 49
50 TO THE CLASS 20222022CONGRATULATIONSOF
“Your class represents a bright green-and-gold heart. With intentional time and effort, you have turned strangers into friends and strangeness into routines. Carry the love you have for each other and this School as fuel to your next communities. Please continue to lead and love as you move forward, Cougars, for you have much to give and learn beyond our School.
Collegiate is forever your School, and from you we expect much as you continue to grow. We will be here, ready to help, celebrate and be supportive.”
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– Penny Evins, Head of School
52 SPARK | Class of 2022
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GREENBAUM AWARD - VALEDICTORIANS: William (Will) John Neuner, Kathryn (Cassie) Elizabeth Buxbaum and Catherine Bayer Horner E. ANGUS POWELL AWARD: William (Will) John Neuner ROSEMARY AWARD: Margaret (Molly) Ewing Woods DR. MARTHA E. KOLBE AWARD: Christian Thomas Mayr LOUISE MATTERN COLEMAN AWARD: Lucy Cameron Barnes CHARLES F. WILTSHIRE CITIZENSHIP AWARD: Daniel Jackson (Jack) Hill JOHNEL TATE POFFENBERGER AWARD: Alice Christian Hallock 54 SPARK | Class of 2022
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32% ENROLLED IN VIRGINIA 68% STATESINENROLLED25OTHER MILLION$9.6 The Class of 2022 received an impressive total of Collegiate’s Seniors will also continue their artistic and athletic passions at the next level: will pursue their craft in highly selective programs in design, film, music, theater, songwriting and the visual arts, while will compete at the Division I (9) and Division III (15) levels in baseball, basketball, golf, field hockey, football, lacrosse, soccer, swimming and track andinfield.merit scholarship offers. 8 24ARTISTSRECRUITEDATHLETES In the quest to discover college options that best fit them as individuals, our 134 SENIORS submitted a record-high 921 applications to 192 colleges, received 551 ACCEPTANCES TO 159 COLLEGES IN 31 STATES AND ENROLLED IN 70 COLLEGES IN 26 STATES. 56 SPARK | Class of 2022
(2) College of William and Mary (5) College of Wooster Colorado State University Davidson College Drexel University East Carolina University Eckerd GeorgeFordhamFloridaEmersonCollegeCollegeStateUniversityUniversity(3)MasonUniversity (4) George Washington University Gordon College Hollins University (2) Holy Cross College Howard University Indiana University Ithaca LoyolaLongwoodLawrenceCollegeUniversityUniversityUniversity-Chicago
Appalachian State University Baldwin Wallace University Bard
In addition, Collegiate Seniors were accepted to the following but have chosen not to matriculate: The Class of 2022 enrolled in the following institutions of higher learning. Institutions where Collegiate School students received multiple acceptances are noted in parentheses as (enrolled, accepted).
COLLEGE CHOICES
Texas A & M University Texas Christian University (1, 7) Tufts UniversityUniversityofCalifornia - Berkeley University of California - Irvine University of Colorado - Boulder (2, 5) University of Georgia (6, 14) University of Kentucky (1, 3) University of Mary Washington (1, 3) University of Miami (1, 6) University of Michigan (1, 2) University of Mississippi (2, 12) University of Notre Dame (1, 2) University of Pittsburgh (1, 9) University of Richmond (3, 6) University of South Carolina (6, 30) University of Southern California (2, 3) University of Tennessee (5, 16) University of Virginia (11, 24) University of Washington (1, 3) University of Wisconsin (1, 2) Villanova University Virginia Commonwealth University (5, 14) Virginia Tech (6, 18) Wake Forest University (1, 2) Washington and Lee University (5, 7) Wheaton College Wofford College
CoastalChapmanBerkleeBelmontCollegeUniversityCollegeofMusicUniversityCarolinaUniversity
American University (1, 2) Auburn University (2, 15) Baylor BostonUniversityCollege(1, 4) Bryant ChristopherBucknellUniversityUniversityNewport University (3, 10) Clemson University (5, 18) Colgate University (1, 2) College of Charleston (1, 10) Dartmouth College Denison University (2, 2) DePauw DickinsonUniversityCollege(1, 2) Duke University Elon University (1, 11) Furman University (2, 6) Georgetown University (4, 4) Georgia Institute of Technology (2, 3) Hamilton Hampden-SydneyCollege College (1, 7) James Madison University (5, 36) Johns Hopkins University Kenyon College Liberty LoyolaLouisianaUniversityStateUniversityUniversity-Maryland (1, 2) Marymount University Millersville University New York University (3, 4) North Carolina State University (5, 8) Northeastern University (1, 6) Ohio State University (1, 2) Point Park University Princeton Randolph-MaconUniversityCollege (1, 5) Rhodes College (1, 3) Santa Clara University Sewanee - University of the South (1, 7) Southern Methodist University (1, 7) Syracuse University (1, 6)
(2) Macalester College Mary Baldwin University Miami University - Ohio (4) Michigan State University Norfolk State University (2) Northwestern University Oberlin College (2) Oberlin Conservatory of Music Ohio University Ohio Wesleyan University Old Dominion University (5) Pennsylvania State University (7) Pratt QueensPurdueInstituteUniversityUniversity - Charlotte Radford University (3) Roanoke RochesterCollegeInstitute of Technology Rollins College (2) Rutgers University (3) Salisbury University Sarah Lawrence College Savannah College of Art & Design Shenandoah University (2) St Olaf College Suffolk University Temple University The New School Tulane UniversityUniversityofAlabama (17) University of California - Los Angeles University of California - San Diego (2) University of California - Santa Barbara (4) University of California - Santa Cruz (2) University of Colorado - Denver University of Delaware (3) University of Denver University of Florida (2) University of Lynchburg University of Maryland (2) University of Massachusetts - Amherst (4) University of Massachusetts - Boston (2) University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth University of North Carolina - Asheville University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (2) University of North Carolina - Wilmington (2) University of Pennsylvania University of Pittsburgh - Greensburg University of Pittsburgh - Johnstown University of Puget Sound University of Redlands University of Rochester (2) University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of Tampa (3) University of Texas University of Vermont (2) Virginia Wesleyan University Washington College West Virginia University Xavier University Yale University
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2022 Graduates with Cougar Lineage LEGACIES 1. Colton Arlington Alvis with aunt Teresa Given ’82, brother Griffin Alvis ’20, father Kevin Lewis Alvis ’84 and aunt Lindsey Melvin ’88. 2. Grant Haley Armstrong with father Tiffany Bohm Armstrong ’86 and brother Charles Armstrong ’20. 3. Margaret Ashley Bowling with sister Riley Bowling ’19, mother Cynthia Nott Bowling ’89, brother Reese Bowling ’17 and cousin Landon Nott ’16. 4. Alexander Jones Brackett Jr. with mother Callie Lacy Brackett ’95 and uncle Rice Lacey ’90. 1 32584 SPARK | Class of 2022
2. Thomas Patrick Brennan with sister Marnie Brennan ’17, father Christopher Amsbary Brennan ’84 and brother Christopher Brennan Jr. ’19.
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1. Margaret Sheehan Bradshaw with father Charles Edward Bradshaw III ’92.
5. Katherine Rutledge Burford with father Douglas Reid Burford ’88 and brother Will Burford ’20.
4. William Carl Bullock with uncle Gerald Bullock ’88, brother John Bullock ’17, father J. Boyd Bullock Jr. ’85 and brother Andrew Bullock ’20.
3. Alexandra Rae Brownstein with grandmother Elise Bloom Scherr ’55 and father Andrew S. Brownstein ’85.
1. Hugh Edward Cafritz with mother Diane Long Cafritz ’88, aunt Kay Long ’87 and grandmother Anne Hirschler Long ’62. Deceased great-grandmother: Elizabeth Whitlock Hirschler ’32. 2. Abigail Evans Campbell with uncle Michael Campbell ’87, cousin McCullough Campbell ’21, father James Sean Campbell ’84, aunt Beverly Campbell ’92 and brother Marshall Campbell ’20. 3. Mason Travers Chapman Jr. with father Mason Travers Chapman ’84, aunt Stuart Roberts ’77, cousin Tyler Roberts ’14 and cousin Chap Roberts ’12. 4. Reid McNeill Coleman with uncle Robert Owen ’90, uncle William Coleman ’87, aunt Lisa Coleman’ 84, uncle Duncan Owen ’86, brother Clay Coleman ’19, mother Frances Owen Coleman ’92, aunt Kathleen Thomas ’81, father Clay Miller Coleman ’89 and uncle Stephen Coleman ’87. 5. William Scott Conrad Jr. with father William Scott Conrad ’93, mother Whitney Smith Conrad ’93 and grandfather Daniel Smith ’68. 6. Zachary Thrasher Darling with father Ross Payne Darling ’84 and brother Jake Darling ’19. 32146065 SPARK | Class of 2022
1. Emily Elizabeth Deskevich with mother Janet Collins Deskevich ’88 and aunt Alice Fruth ’97. Deceased grandmother: Dianne Nunnally Hoppes ’64.
2. Olivia Thompson Fairlamb with aunt Priscilla Stinson ’72, mother Holly Schmidt Fairlamb ’82, father Everett Allan Fairlamb III ’73 and sister Laura Fairlamb ’19.
6. Elizabeth McGraw Hagan with mother Mary Williams Hagan ’84 and aunts Susan Cantus ’84 and Margaret Pace ’81.
3. Owen Conner Fallon with brother Jack Fallon ’16, brother William Fallon ’19, aunt Betsy Block ’79 and father John McGee Fallon ’85.
5. Riley Matteson Gilbert with brother Carter Gilbert ’19, mother Carol Turlington Gilbert ’85 and uncle John Turlington ’94.
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1
4. Natalie Morgan Ford with mother Lauren Diehl Ford ’92.
5.
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3. John Charles Henry with father Michael Robert Henry ’84. Daniel Jackson Hill with mother Catherine Crooks Hill ’85 and sister Cate Hill ’20. Sydney Carper Jamison with father James Carper Jamison II ’89 and uncle Harrison Jamison ’91. Sarah Page Kennon with sister Ranny Kennon ’15 and brother Lee Kennon ’18. Deceased grandmother: Barbara Norris Sutherland ’54. 4
2. Alice Christian Hallock with uncle Charles Johnson ’84, mother Sarah Johnson Hallock ’85, cousin Lucy Johnson ’19 and brother Halsey Hallock ’21.
6.
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1. Andrew Brent Hailes Jr. with grandmother Virginia Brent Evans ’61 and father A. Brent Hailes Sr. ’89. Deceased great-grandmother: Virginia McGuire Brent ’38.
4.
1. Georgia Weston Kulp with father Christopher G. Kulp ’84, uncle Scott Kulp ’88 and cousin James Kulp ’21. 2. Ella Thorpe McDaniel with aunt Amy Chestnutt ’93 and mother Cara Koonce McDaniel ’90. 3. Christian Paul Miller with mother Elizabeth Christian Miller ’80 and sister Liza Miller ’18. Not pictured: uncles Bill Christian ’78 and Mike Christian ’73. 4. William Benjamin Pace Jr. with uncle Michael Campbell ’87, cousin McCullough Campbell ’21, mother Margaret Randolph Pace ’90 and aunt Beverly Campbell ’92. 5. Anne Collier Phillips with father Baxter Francis Phillips III ’93. 6. Kathryn Elizabeth Riopelle with brother Kyle Riopelle ’17, father Brian Charles Riopelle ’80 and brother Fain Riopelle ’11. 31 4 5 2 6 SUMMER 2022 63
4. Elizabeth Houston Smith with father Dr. Julious Perry Smith III ’86 and sister Addison Smith ’20.
1 5 2
3. Harry Joseph Shaia Jr. with father Dr. Harry Joseph Shaia Sr. ’85 and sister Claire Shaia ’20.
2. Scott Forbes Ruth Jr. with father Scott Forbes Ruth ’91, aunt Erin Jewett ’94, uncle Bryce Jewett ’93, grandfather Bryce Jewett Jr. ’64, mother Jennifer Jewett Ruth ’90, sister Anne Mason Ruth ’19, aunt Courtney Ruth ’97 and aunt Robin Jager ’88. Deceased grandmother: Gay Montague Jewett ’65.
1. Eva Magdalene Rohr with aunt Anne Reynolds ’91, mother Linda Luck Rohr ’93 and aunt Georgia Mitchell ’98. Not pictured: sister Sarah Rohr ’20.
6443 SPARK | Class of 2022
5. Charlotte Brooke Smith with sister Emily Smith ’19, mother Elizabeth Vetrovec Smith ’90 and uncle John Vetrovec ’94.
6. Lucy Parish Storey with grandmother Anne Dobbins Brasfield ’65, father Scott Jordan Storey ’92 and mother Mollie Heilig Storey ’92. 6
3. John Howlett Woodfin III with father John Howlett Woodfin Jr. ’87.
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1. Elsie Tucker Walker with grandmother Elsie Ellerson Morris ’54 and mother Sarah Morris Walker ’86.
4. John Madison Wootton with father Madison Pendleton Wootton ’89.
2. Robert Schaefer Westermann with sister Ellie Westermann ’19, sister Ann Ross Westermann ’16, mother Townsend Ross Westermann ’88 and aunt Austin Sutten ’90.
5. Lacey Elliott Word with father Thomas Scott Word III ’79. pictured: Jonnie Michael Williams III with father Jonnie R. Williams Jr. ’95. 54
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A SENIOR YEAR TO REMEMBER 1. Seniors process through Convocation with their Kindergarten buddies 2. Members of the Class of 2022 share laughs with their Kindergarten buddies 3. The Class of 2022 continues the tradition of signing the Honor Code 4. Senior Class Presidents Molly Woods and Ian Quindoza hold Q&A with Head of School Penny Evins. 5. Seniors collaborate on their Capstone projects 31 4 5 2 66 SPARK | Class of 2022
5.
4.
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1-2. Seniors pump up the crowd during the Homecoming pep rally
3. Collegiate students cheer on their classmates as they compete in the Homecoming football game. Seniors participate in the Ethics Bowl. Collegiate students perform in the 2021 Pageant.
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3. Senior parents give gifts in recognition of the Class of 2022.
2. Seniors visit a Middle School assembly to answer questions and give advice on building an inclusive community.
4. Seniors enjoy the Feast of Juul tradition.
5. Students come together for Brunch festivities.
1. Seniors and their Kindergarten buddies spend time together helping each other grow.
6. Kindergartners run through a warm-up line with Senior buddies.
531 76 4 2 1. The entire Upper School gathers together in Oates Theater for the first time in two years. 2. Seniors bring their pets to campus and proudly sport their college gear 3. The Class of 2022 enjoys the Senior Transition Program. 4. Two Seniors perform during the Class of 2022’s final assembly. 5-6. Parents and students attend the 2022 Baccalaureate. 7. Seniors reflect on their time at Collegiate as they sign yearbooks. SUMMER 2022 69
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SPIRITWITHLEADING
HERE’S WHAT THEY SAID.
At the beginning of the school year, the Class of 2022 brought a perspective that was unique to the rest of the students in the Upper School: They were the only class that spent a full year in the Upper School before COVID-19. With this insight, the Seniors gave the School a gift; they led the way in rebuilding our sense of community and school spirit. They led with their vibrant personalities, each one of them bringing a special spark to the bright torch of Collegiate. Spark asked several Seniors what they found to be special about their own class.
LAUREN LUCY
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MOLLY WOODS
“We have always been engaged in every extracurricular success. We cheer each other on. This year our class strove for unity and expanded the boundaries. Whether I’ve known some of my classmates since Kindergarten, or maybe just from recent years, I can say with confidence that I have learned something from every single person in the Class of 2022. Through the return of the student section and the reimplementation of traditional forms of beloved events such as pep rally, Homecoming, Feast of Juul, Brunch and Pageant, we have embraced our challenges and emerged as a community.”
“I have been a part of the best class I could have asked for over the past 13 years. We have created something special here. Being with one another for most of our lives has allowed us to have a deeper understanding of one another, which has allowed us to create deeper relationships and respect for each other. But what truly means the most to me is that we turned our love and respect into a tremendous amount of support for one another. We’ve taught each other lessons, we’ve learned what friendship does and does not look like, and, more importantly, we’ve given each other our childhoods.”
DONOVAN WILLIAMS “As a musician, my class was gracious in allowing me to perform some of my music for them on stage. They are great audience members, great teammates and great classmates. Being able to come together as a group and being able to have that energy that spurs everybody forward and allows them to perform to the best of their ability is tremendous. The unity between us is what makes this Senior class so great.”
IAN QUINDOZA “Having different groups of people and different friend groups come together as one class — even with all of our different interests — and have common goals is something special in our grade. I hope we’ve shown other grades spirit and leadership. We led by example, showing the younger students what the Upper School is like.”
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WILL PACE “In my eyes, the Class of 2022 has made a positive mark here at Collegiate. The spirit and camaraderie among our class that I’ve seen have been excellent. I am forever grateful for this Collegiate community and for my friends.”
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ZEHMA HERRING “There is definitely a strong sense of togetherness among our class, especially after being separated for two years. We showed our spirit through student sections at athletic events and theater performances, and that brought us closer together. We appreciate each other’s talents — I remember the countless times sitting and listening to a classmate play guitar during lunch, for example — and that’s been really special.”
JAY MACDONALD “I’ve grown really close with everyone in my class. I have a little handshake or an inside joke with each person in the class. That’s really special — to have that kind of connection with everyone. The support they’ve shown for our robotics team has been magnificent, too.”
AMANI KIMBALL-MCKAVISH “As an athlete, I felt supported in an already supportive environment. To look to the stands and see your friends cheering you on is a great feeling. Our student sections were so much fun. I also hope we demonstrated gratitude for all the opportunities we’ve enjoyed during our time here. I think we’ve shown how much we can give and get back from the community.”
ALUMNI NEWS
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Alumni Association President Jasmine Turner ’11 networks with students during the Senior Transition Program.
Anne Gray Siebert ’97
My green-and-gold heart has been filled with warmth from watching our alumni come together to share the joy of Collegiate. Whether in the heart of Richmond, in the city of Charlotte, the mountains of Denver or the bright lights of New York, it felt incredible being back together to connect with alumni across the country. The pride in our School and our desire to be together were felt no matter the location. Within minutes of starting each cherished alumni event, the room quickly filled with Cougars of all ages thrilled to be together. Our community is strong, and the intangible feeling of connection will inspire me as we look towards next year.
Community and connection — those are the two words that best describe the past year.
During the numerous interactions I’ve had with alumni over the past year, a common theme emerged that forever keeps us close to Collegiate: the willingness of so many of you to give back to the School that has had such a profound impact on you. Our first ever alumni programming during Senior Transition Week served as a tremendous example of this. During the program, more than 40 alumni came back to campus to get to know the Class of 2022, share their experiences since graduation and teach valuable life skills. Watching our alumni foster connections and impart valuable lessons to our newest members of the Alumni Association reinforced the importance of bringing our alumni back to our classrooms JK-12. Our students are better prepared for the world when they have opportunities to collaborate and learn from each of you. We maintain our vibrant connections through the volunteer efforts of our Alumni Board, whose members have given their time and talents to our great alumni community. I want to extend a big thank you to Sarah Paxton ’84 for leading the Alumni Board this past year. From the spirited Homecoming Weekend festivities to the joyful class reunions and regional reunions, the Alumni Association remains focused on bringing the Collegiate community together, reminiscing on the joyful moments forever cherished, renewing friendships and creating new memories. No matter where your path takes you, being a part of Collegiate means you are forever part of a community. The Alumni Association is delighted to engage with each one of you, and we are here to continue making those meaningful connections — bringing you closer to both fellow alumni and life at Collegiate today.
LETTER FROM DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT
SEPT. 24, 2022 Cougars at Richmond Kickers OCT. 18, 2022 Former faculty and staff breakfast OCT. 28-29, 2022 Homecoming Weekend OCT. 28, 2022 38th Annual Alumni Oyster Roast OCT. 28, 2022 Parents’ Association fall meeting/coffee OCT. 29, 2022 On-campus class reunions for class years that end in twos and sevens NOV. 9, 2022 Washington, D.C. reunion DEC. 2, 2022 Pageant Lunch JAN. 19, 2023 Class of 2022 Care Package Lunch MAY 22, 2023 Cougars Come Home, Classes of 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019 UPCOMING COLLEGIATE EVENTS SUMMER 2022 75
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If you have any questions or if you’re interested in helping organize and plan your reunion, please contact Director of Alumni Engagement Anne Gray Siebert ’97 at annegray_siebert@collegiate-va.org or 804.741.9757. H 2022MECOMINGOCTOBEROCTOBER28-2928-29
COMMUNITYCOMMUNITYPICNICPICNIC
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Collegiate’s Homecoming and Reunion Weekend will be held Oct. 28 and 29, and it will be a celebration to remember. This year, for the first time in Collegiate’s history, alumni whose class years end in a “2” or “7” will have their reunions on campus. Each class will have its individual party in a separate location around campus, which will bring you closer to the memories your class members created here on North Mooreland Road. After the reunion parties, each class will then come together for a full alumni party. The weekend will be all about the joy of the Cougar community gathering on campus to reminisce, renew friendships and create new memories. As we count down the days until the Homecoming fun begins, we hope you will enjoy not only looking back at your time at Collegiate but also look forward to catching up, visiting campus and celebrating together. After all, that is what Homecoming and reunions are for — coming “home” to Collegiate and reconnecting with friends from near and far. We can’t wait to see you back at Collegiate.
FIELDFIELDALUMNIHOCKEYGAMEALUMNIHOCKEYGAME
HOMECOMINGHOMECOMINGROUNDTENNISROBINSROBINSTENNISALUMNIARTEXHIBITALUMNIARTEXHIBITFOOTBALLGAMEFOOTBALLGAME
THE CLASS OF 2022 JOINS VAST NETWORK OF ALUMNI
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The Class of 2021 Comes Home In May, Collegiate welcomed back members of the Class of 2021. They had the opportunity to reconnect with their classmates and their former faculty and staff while enjoying food trucks and live music. We loved seeing these alumni and hearing about their accomplishments over the last year.
During the Senior Transition Program, students of the Class of 2022 received a warm welcome from members of Collegiate School’s vast Alumni Association. The Alumni Association is committed to supporting everyone in the Collegiate community. “You are now part of the fantastic Collegiate alumni network,” Elizabeth Wright ’01 told the Class of 2022. “We are here to help you succeed and we are here to help support you.”
The Alumni Board works with purpose and pride to keep our alumni community connected. In March, for the first time since 2020, the Collegiate School Alumni Board came together on campus for an in-person board meeting. Collegiate is grateful to all of our alumni — both near and far.
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ALUMNI ASSOCIATION HOSTS
Collegiate is looking for volunteers to assist us with gathering and sharing information and promoting the School. In this role, you would: Serve as a liaison between the alumni office and your classmates • Review class lists provided by the Alumni Office to maintain updated contact, family and employment information. This will allow alumni to stay informed of both School news as well as alumni events, programs and networking opportunities. • Share information and messaging via email, social media and word-of-mouth. As a Class Ambassador, you will assist with School and alumni news updates. Act as a class ambassador • Promote Collegiate when you hear of families thinking about an independent school education in Richmond. The Collegiate experience is one of the greatest gifts you can give and, as an alumni, you are a trusted and authentic source. Serve on Alumni Board Committee • As a Class Ambassador you are invited to serve on an Alumni Board committee. Collect news for Spark • C ompile new contact information, marriages, births (and deaths), job changes, collegiate successes and more. Questions? Please contact Director of Alumni Engagement Anne Gray Siebert ’97 at annegray_siebert@collegiate-va.org or 804.741.9757 Wanted: CLASS AMBASSADORS!
In March, in conjunction with Cougar Pride Day, the Alumni Association hosted the first in-person Cougar Bites since 2019. This Cougar Bites event served as an opportunity for alumni to come together to connect with friends and meet other Cougars in a casual setting. One of the best ways for all of us to maintain Collegiate’s strong flame is by reconnecting with classmates, and to do so while sharing fond reflections over tasty appetizers is an added bonus.
First In-Person Cougar Bites Since 2019
ALUMNI BOARD Gathers on Campus
Fisher Mountcastle ’17, Cole Eck ’17, Kevin Cross ’17 and Owen Nott ’13. Fisher Mountcastle ’17 catching up and swapping stories with friends Cole Eck ’17, Berkley Geho ’17, Alex DiNardo ’17, Kevin Cross ’17, Olivia Jacobs ’17 and Harrison Geho ’14. JC Fain ’04 and Matthew Williams ’04 enjoyed hearing more about latest events at Collegiate from Alumni Director Anne Gray Siebert ’97 and spending time with Britten Matthews ’06, Courtney McDonald Fain ’04, Blair Phillips Hoffmann ’04, Hillary Robertson Crittendon ’02 and Liz Morrissette Bryant ’00.
CHARLOTTE REUNION Collegiate Cougars gathered at the Craft Tasting Room and Growler Shop on Feb. 4, 2022.
Kathryn Dickinson ’12, Sally Summers ’12 and Annie Stettinius ’12. Estelle Perera ’92 and Chris Rivers ’92 catch up with Shep Lewis ’96. While in New York for the regional reunion, Head of School Penny Evins visited Wendy Gold ’68 at her home.
NEW YORK REUNION Collegiate alumni enjoyed each other’s company at the Harvard Club on April 6, 2022.
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DENVER REUNION More than 50 Collegiate Cougars brought some green-and-gold cheer to the snow-speckled mountains of Denver, Colo. on April 3, 2022 for this regional reunion.
Britten Matthews ’06, Courtney McDonald Fain ’04, Blair Phillips Hoffmann ’04, Hillary Robertson Crittendon ’02 and Liz Morrissette Bryant ’00.
A group of roughly 80 Seniors sit in Sharp Cafe, rapt, speaking with Wortie Ferrell ’88 P ’24 ’27 ’31 about living expenses. They are trying to figure out what a comfortable wage would be to live in New York. Ferrell asks the students to consider general living expenses such as rent, utilities and groceries. “And what about a 401(k),” he asks the students. “Is it something we should contribute to, and, if so, how much should we consider contributing?” He then asks the students if they can provide any examples of good debt. “Student loans might be a good example,” one student responds. “Getting a credit card, if used responsibly, can be good debt,” another says. This informative session was part of the Senior Transition Program, an event that brought more than 40 Collegiate School alumni back to campus to lead discussions with Seniors that will help them transition into the next stage of their learning journey. Many of the sessions, like the one hosted by Ferrell, explored subjects that students will have to consider as they grow older. Other alumni offered insights that will give students an edge both professionally and socially — sessions, for example, on how to stand out among a big pool of job or graduate school applicants.
As part of the Senior Transition Program, Collegiate Alumni teach the Class of 2022 valuable life skills.
ALUMNI RETURN TO COLLEGIATE TO HELP SENIORS 80 SPARK | Alumni News
In another session, Kate Stephenson ’05 organizes students around a stovetop. Seniors cut bell peppers, red onions and chicken breast as Stephenson talks about the benefits of a healthy diet. “A healthy diet can give you the energy you need to succeed in other aspects of your life,” she tells them. They’re making chicken fajitas, which, Stephenson says, is an easy meal students can assemble in their dorm rooms or apartments. She also gives the students tips on how to shop for groceries on a budget and how to prepare meals that will save them time.
“Engaging with the alumni throughout this program has really taught us a lot about how to develop outside Collegiate,” Hugh Williams ’22 says. “The program is teaching us life skills and some other things you might not pick up in the classroom. This is setting us up for future success, which is really valuable.”
Throughout the program, students were able to connect with alumni outside of the organized sessions, giving Seniors practice with networking and making strong first impressions. “Getting to know alumni has been really great,” Maria Bonwell ’22 says. “To see the steps alumni have taken after graduating from Collegiate has been helpful, especially as we try to figure out the next steps of our lives. We really appreciate the dedication the alumni have shown.”
The vast alumni network offers a web of support for current Collegiate students, helping lead the way on their endless learning journeys. “The transition program shows that both the School and Collegiate alumni care about the students’ futures,” Molly Congdon ’03 says. “We want the future generations to succeed, and we are here to support them.”
“This program is great because it shows how much Collegiate invests in their students,” Stephenson says. “There are so many skills that students will need when they graduate, and I’m so happy to share a bit of advice. Cooking, for example, is such a great life skill that they are going to use for the rest of their lives, and learning those skills that might not necessarily be taught prepares them for so much in both the workplace and in life.”
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With college and the professional world on the not-so-distant horizon, the Senior Transition Program helps students march with confidence into the future. Beyond the alumni-led sessions, a total of two weeks of educational development discussions help prepare students for their next steps. “Programs like these are what really set Collegiate apart from other schools,” Katie Burford ’22 says. “I think it’s amazing that, as we’re graduating, the School is really trying hard to get us prepared for the real world. This just made me really grateful for Collegiate, because what we’re learning here is so valuable and it really says a lot about how much Collegiate cares.” Collegiate remains strong because of the connections we share with each other, particularly the connections between current students and Cougar alumni. It’s one of the many ways the School’s flame endures. “Based on the smiles, laughter and flocks of students seen surrounding our alumni, I would say the two days were a huge success,” Director of Alumni Engagement Anne Gray Siebert ’97 says. “Our alumni instilled wisdom and charged our graduates with ways to flourish during this next phase of life. It was clear that we are a community and our alumni are here to support and nourish our students every single step of the way.”
1972 Martha Wynne Stuart writes, “My wife Vicki Hawes retired from UVA Feb. 1, 2020. We moved two blocks in late July 2020, the heart of the first pandemic wave, into our ‘downsize’ one-level home with a smaller yard (ha, not really!). In July 2021, we took possession of a little getaway in Irvington, Va. that we call Vicki’s house. It’s not on the water, but it is not far from friends and good water access. Fishing can be very calming. Meanwhile, I am still happily working at UVA, but I’d be even happier if we were moving from pandemic to endemic status with the COVID family of viruses! Fall 2021 UVA alum travel resumed and we spent October in France. I worked my usual provost job remotely for two weeks from Paris and traveled for two weeks as the faculty lead for ‘Provincial France.’ We had a small and fun group, which included four additional travelers joining us when the VMFA canceled a similar trip. Our planned threeweek vacation to Sydney, barrier reef and other locations in winter 2020 died the virus death, so we project we’ll visit those friends at the same time in 2023. They can’t travel to the United States, so we’ll meet them in Kauai with another couple Thanksgiving week 2022. The next trip to France is yet unknown.”
CLASS NOTES
1973 “I am a plaintiff’s personal injury attorney at Williams Mullen,” writes W.F. Drewry Gallalee. “I am also a new grandfather. My son Hunter, a Collegiate grad, and his wife Katie have a son named Pierce.” Anne Ward Horton died Jan. 3, 2021.
Will Hart ’12 sold Brian his first massproduced EV on May 8, 2022. Will is a manager at CaryTown Bicycle Co. and knows everything about the latest and best electric assist bike technology. Best of all, the newest EV bikes will allow the Class of 1977 to ride alongside the Class of 2012!
82 SPARK | Class Notes
1963 Elizabeth “Ki” Caldwell, sister of Frances “Fluff” Manderson ’62, died Feb. 26, 2022.
1977 Brian Richardson developed and raced electric vehicles from 2009 to 2011. Brian set the ECTA land speed record, was the first to race gas-powered vehicles in a sanctioned event, set the coast to coast EV record, and was ranked second in North America in the 2011 TTXGP series. Oddly, Brian has never purchased an electric vehicle — until now.
1954 Eugenia Farrow Farrar died Feb. 13, 2022. 1959 “Ted and I renovated and made an addition to one of the brick outbuildings here at Norwood and moved in two years ago,” writes Connie Kennon Harriss. “I am still very active handling outreach at my little church, as well as keeping track of our newly founded historical society, a great interest of mine, for my family has attended the church since it was built in 1844. Fifty members of my Kennon and Finney families are buried in the churchyard there. Classmates Margot Deck, Evaline Hensley Jones, Jane Terrell Neer, Catharine White Tucker and I have a monthly lunch date and enjoy reminiscing about our days at Collegiate School for Girls on Monument Avenue so very long ago.”
1967 Susan Schmidt writes, “In Beaufort, N.C., I play in boats — kayaking, survey shorebirds, motorboats, monitor ocean dolphins, sailboats and rowing. My one-year-old Boykin Spaniel ‘Pippa’ will soon be certified as a therapy dog. In April, Elizabeth Coleman James and Elizabeth Whittet O’Conor visited me. To escape Beaufort summer tourist hordes, I spent two weeks in June in Montana and Idaho and then spent a month at Celo in the North Carolina mountains. As a volunteer, I work as a master gardener in the Maritime Museum garden. I also serve on boards of Local Food Network, Junior Sailing and Rachel Carson Preserve. My next poetry book, Drought Drought Torrential, on climate change and sea level rise, dolphins, shorebirds and pandemic gardening, will be published next year.”
Bunny Gentry Williams, sister of John Gentry ’79 and sister-in-law of Carol Frederick Gentry ’79, died Jan. 17, 2022.
1981 Doug and Patti Massey currently have two soldiers serving overseas. CPT Ben Massey is stationed in Germany with the 2nd Cavalry. 1LT Julia Massey is stationed in Kuwait with the 29th Infantry Division. Also, many thanks to COL Lee Wimbish ’80 for his continuing wise counsel.
1962 “I moved into Cedarfield after many wonderful, happy years in Jackson Hole, Wyo.,” writes Carolyn G. Allen. “It is nice to be much closer to old friends and family even while leaving so many friends in Jackson Hole. I have managed to visit all seven continents over the years and hope to keep going now that COVID is receding!”
6. Julie Fiedler ’90 published The Littlest Frenchie, a charming children’s book about kindness. 4 2
1990 Julie Fiedler writes, “I self-published a children’s book about kindness featuring a French Bulldog named Petunia. Support a Cougar and get a cute gift for kids and grandkids! Check out The Littlest Frenchie available on Amazon.”
1984 Randy Reynolds was just nominated to be the VP of the Henrico Police Foundation.
1986 Cougars connect in Los Angeles! Harry Wilson ’01 visited Elisabeth Arnold Weiss at USC, where he spoke to her class about his journey as an entrepreneur and enjoyed a brief tour of USC athletics.
1989 James “Jim” Key, brother of Steven Key ’87, died April 13, 2022.
1988 Walker Fonville and Lissie Stagg completed their first (last?) Ironman 70.3 in Wilmington last fall. They had a beautiful day for the race and it presented them with the expected physical and mental challenges — with a few twists. Walker raced with minimal food during the six-hour race because her sunscreen leaked and soaked it all. Lissie didn’t check her checklist and forgot her running shoes, but ran it anyway in her socks. Fortunately they were greeted at the finish line by Mahood Fonville, Emily Fonville ’90 and Charlie Fonville ’92 with recovery beverages and extra shoes. Tara Gervin died Feb. 25, 2022.
2. Brian Richardson ’77 recently bought an electric vehicle from Will Hart ’12.
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4. Harry Wilson ’01 visited Elisabeth Arnold Weiss ’86 at USC.
5. Walker Fonville ’88 and Lissie Stagg ’88 completed their first Ironman last fall.
3. Catherine Hill ’85 had a great time catching up with classmates at Hardywood during the Class of 1985 reunion. Pictured from left to right: Alston Goodwin Williams, Anne Mountcastle Rusbuldt, Catherine Crooks Hill, David Wilson, Rachel Floyd Foglesong, Lee Moreau and Frances Williams White.
1985 Catherine Hill writes, “Happy New Year! I thought I’d share this photo of our mini Class of 1985 reunion on Nov. 6, 2021 at Hardywood. The highlight was seeing Lee Moreau and David Wilson, who have both returned to Richmond. So glad to have them back in RVA!”
1. Connie Kennon Harriss ’59 with her three great grandsons: Kennon Harrison III, Coalter Swindell and James Harrison.
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1983 Ralph Robinson “Rob” Crosby, brother of Brad Crosby ’78 and twin brother of Tom Crosby, and brotherin-law of Terry Crosby ’78 and Beverely Crosby, died Jan. 27, 2022.
1 2 3 64 5 7 8 9 10 84 SPARK | Class Notes
2. Anne Shanklin Casper ’94 and husband Rob are kept busy by their four children.
Stephen Lecky, Marshall Schutt, Bryson Powell and Toby Long came together for a spring gathering in Richmond. Bryson Powell and Addison Thompson gathered in San Francisco with their families for dinner at Addison’s house.
2001 John Markowitz has accepted a position as Deputy Secretary of Finance in Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s cabinet. He is moving back to Richmond with his wife, Diana, and two daughters, Charlotte and Maddy.
Tommy Robertson and Catie Finley were married at Indian Creek in Kilmarnock, Va. on Sept. 25, 2021. John Robertson ’65 was best man, and Jamie Robertson ’04 was best
8. Stephen Lecky ’98, Marshall Schutt ’98, Bryson Powell ’98 and Toby Long ’98 came together for a spring gathering in Richmond.
1996 On April 30, Amandeep (Aman) Singh Sidhu was one of five College of William & Mary alumni to receive the inaugural Asian Centennial Award. The awards ceremony culminated 18 months of events celebrating 100 years of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) students on the William & Mary campus. Aman was recognized for his work as a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP and co-founder of and pro bono counsel to The Sikh Coalition, the largest civil rights advocacy organization in the United States dedicated to protecting the rights of Sikhs and other vulnerable communities. In particular, Aman was commended for his lead role in a 13 plus year advocacy effort to end religious discrimination against Sikhs in the U.S. military.
6-7. Scooter Yancey ’98 married Crystal Ming on April 16, 2022, in Fort Lauderdale, Fl.
10. Easley Edmunds ’99 is moving back to Richmond after 17 years living in Santiago, Chile.
5. Katherine Adamson ’96 ran the Monument Avenue 10K with her five family members.
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1. Jill Witty ’94 and classmates from both the east and west coast gathered for a relaxing and indulgent spring trip to Palm Beach. Pictured from left to right: Mary Mittell, Astrid Liverman, Ashley Knaysi, Anya Schwender, Jill Witty.
4. Christina Vranian Grande ’96 is moving into a fulltime college counseling role after teaching English at Trinity Episcopal School for 20 years.
3. Amandeep (Aman) Singh Sidhu ’96 was one of five College of William & Mary alumni to receive the inaugural CentennialAsianAward.
Katherine Adamson writes, “I ran the Monument Avenue 10K with my whole family for the first time!”
1991 Scott Ruth opened his own real estate firm — Shaheen, Ruth, Martin & Fonville Real Estate — with business partners Scott Shaheen, John Martin and Mahood Fonville ’88. They just celebrated their five year anniversary in May 2022. 1992 Stephen T. Spraker accepted a position as Vice President-Investments with Raymond James and Associates in Richmond. 1994 Jill Witty and classmates from both the east and west coast gathered for a relaxing and indulgent spring trip to Palm Beach. This was their first full reunion since their 2016 trip to Costa Rica. Anne Shanklin Casper writes, “Greetings from Maryland! My husband Rob and I spend our evenings and weekends at volleyball and baseball games, swim meets, scout events and preschool activities with our four kids (ages three to 15 years old). I taught the older three to water ski at Claytor Lake over the past few summers. I am working on my 19th year at Johns Hopkins, where I conduct clinical trials.”
1998 Scooter Yancey married Crystal Ming on April 16, 2022, in Fort Lauderdale, Fl. Cougars in attendance included Laura Yancey Peery ’80, Teresa Yancey Crane ’75, Nikolas Massey, Boz Boschen, Kemp Gouldin, Brooke Purcell ’97, Camp Peery ’07, Madelyn Peery ’04 and Liza Peery ’11. After a honeymoon in Maldives, Tanzania, South Africa and Paris, the couple has returned home to Los Angeles, where Scooter continues his work as a television producer, and Crystal as an aesthetic physician assistant.
Christina Vranian Grande is moving into a full-time college counseling role after teaching English at Trinity Episcopal School for 20 years.
9. Bryson Powell ’98 and Addison Thompson ’98 gathered in San Francisco with their families for dinner at Addison’s house.
1999 Easley Edmunds writes, “After 17 years living in Santiago, Chile I am moving my family up to Richmond. I played a big role in rallying classmates for the 20 year reunion in 2019, and it was a raging success. It was so fun being back for homecoming weekend before COVID-19 took over.”
10. Chapin Hardy Coats ’06 completed the Make-A-Wish Trailblaze Challenge on May 14th, 2022. 2
1. John Markowitz ’01 has accepted a position as Deputy Secretary of Finance in Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s cabinet.
5. On Jan. 19, 2022, William O’Flaherty ’05 and wife Emily welcomed second daughter, Charlotte Elizabeth O’Flaherty, to their family.
2005 Devon Kelley married Stefannie Vorona on Aug. 13, 2022. William O’Flaherty writes, “On Jan. 19, 2022, my wife Emily and I welcomed our second daughter, Charlotte Elizabeth O’Flaherty, to our family.”
8. Margaret Rosebro Sprewel ’06 welcomed second child, Elizabeth “Eliza” Mercer Sprewell, on April 2.
3. Hunter Powell ’01, his daughter Sara Bryce Powell, and Anne Gray Siebert ’97 enjoyed catching up at the Homecoming Community Picnic.
2. Tommy Robertson ’01 and Catie Finley were married at Indian Creek in Kilmarnock on Sept. 25, 2021, with a number of Cougars in attendance.
2004 Rob Frackelton is entering his ninth year teaching Economics and Financial Markets at Oxbridge Academy, an independent school in West Palm Beach, Fl. In addition to his teaching duties, Rob now serves as the coordinator for the newly created Free Enterprise Institute at Oxbridge. He credits the Powell Institute at Collegiate and his time serving on Darr-Davis for fueling his passion for economics and finance.
7. Burch Hazelgrove Pope ’05 and husband Justin Pope welcomed son George Thompson on Feb. 26.
9. Olivia Chapin Hardy ’06 and Matthew William Coats were married May 7, 2022, at St. Stephens Episcopal Church in Richmond, Va.
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2002 Major Scott Bartholomew recently returned home from an 11 month mobilization with the Virginia National Guard to Kuwait. He served as the Division Transportation Officer for the 29th Infantry Division moving people and equipment in and around the CENTCOM area of operations (central and southwest Asia). His family — wife Cara, sons Trevor (six) and Zachary (five) — promptly went to Disney World to celebrate.
86 SPARK | Class Notes
Caitlin Teden writes, “My husband Andy and I were excited to welcome our third daughter, Charlotte, to the world on Feb. 18, 2022. Charlotte joins three-and-a-half yearold twin big sisters Sydney and Zoe. We live right around the corner from Collegiate in Sleepy Hollow and frequently walk over to the playground on the weekends.”
6. Caitlin Teden ’05 and husband Andy welcomed their third daughter, Charlotte, to the world on Feb. 18, 2022.
man in memoriam. The outdoor ceremony and reception were attended by many Cougars, including groomsmen and ushers: Grahame Burke ’00, Robbie Burke ’03, Rust Bartholomew ’04, Reed Blair ’04, Kemper Blair, Michael Taliaferro ’00, Eric Breeden, Ben Holland ’00, Jimmy Sismanis, and Taylor Waller ’02. They were also joined by many other special Cougars and teachers. It was a beautiful weekend and a fun time for all. Hunter Powell, his daughter Sara Bryce Powell, and Anne Gray Siebert ’97 enjoyed catching up at the Homecoming Community Picnic.
4. Major Scott Bartholomew ’02 recently returned home from an 11 month mobilization with the Virginia National Guard to Kuwait.
Burch Hazelgrove Pope and husband Justin Pope welcomed son George Thompson on Feb. 26. Thompson joins big sister Everett (four) and big brother Hughes (one-and-a-half). 2006 Margaret Rosebro Sprewell writes, “We welcomed our second child, Elizabeth ‘Eliza’ Mercer Sprewell, on April 2. She is doing great and we are so in love! Her big sister, Ginny, is having so much fun playing with and taking care of ‘her baby.’”
The celebration and blessing of the marriage of Olivia Chapin Hardy and Matthew William Coats took place at 5 p.m. May 7, 2022 at St. Stephens Episcopal Church in Richmond, Va. The bride was accompanied by matrons of honor Carolyn Elizabeth Guari and Dorothea Minter Rist, and bridesmaids Roxanne Livingston Rich, Anne-Claire Marie Vaske and Jessie Carol Ziegler. A reception was hosted by the bride’s parents at the Commonwealth Club. A rehearsal dinner the evening prior was hosted by the mother of the groom at the Deep Run Hunt Club. The bride currently manages marketing and public relations for Davis Orthodontics in Columbia, S.C. The groom is a graduate of Clemson University and is employed as the Director of New Business Development for Plastek, Inc., a multinational packaging company. The couple will reside in Lexington, S.C.
Chapin Hardy Coats completed the MakeA-Wish Trailblaze Challenge on May 14th, 2022. She completed five months of training to prepare for the 28.3 mile hike through Foothills Trail at Oconee State Park and completed the trail in a little over 12 hours. She raised more than $2,550 to grant wishes for critically-ill children in South Carolina. The Midlands BNI Trailblaze Challenge Team raised as a whole more than $213,000 that will provide essential funds to give hope and joy to children.
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2007 Grace Zell and Johnathan Longo were married March 27, 2022, at Congregation Beth Ahabah in Richmond. They live and work in Baltimore, Md.
11-12. Anne Mason Ruth ’19 completed a semester abroad in Florence, Italy and met up with a few fellow Cougars along the way 1
2018 After graduating from Christopher Newport University in May, Duncan Owen moved to Arlington and started working for Richmond-based Summit Human Capital as a Technical Recruiter for their Government Services team. Through this role, he is helping open their McLean office and is working with clients in government contracting and federal workforce solutions. Avery Freeman graduated from the College of William & Mary with a B.S. in Kinesiology & Health Sciences and Psychology and will attend Duke University in the fall to earn M.A. in Bioethics & Science Policy.
Kathleen Melnick Corsello celebrated the birth of her baby girl, Rosemary “Rose” Dianne Corsello, in April 2022, with husband Brett Corsello. Taylor Daniels appeared in the first episode of this season’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
2012 Austin Palmore recently earned a Juris Doctor degree from Washington and Lee University School of Law. After sitting for the Virginia Bar Exam this summer, he will clerk for The Honorable Judges of the Henrico County Circuit Court, followed by a clerkship for The Honorable Randolph A. Beales, Judge of the Court of Appeals of Virginia, in Richmond.
4-5. Kathleen Melnick Corsello ’10 celebrated the birth of her baby girl, Rosemary “Rose” Dianne Corsello, in April 2022 with husband Brett Corsello.
Brooke Meredith Stallings writes, “Joseph Wayne Humphrey and I were married (in the presence of immediate family only, due to the pandemic) on June 27, 2020, in Jackson, Wyo. at the Wedding Tree overlooking the Grand Tetons. We are planning a weekend of celebration for friends and extended family for our first anniversary this June! We will continue to reside in Jackson Hole, where I am employed as a senior water resources and wetland scientist with a private environmental consulting firm and Joe as a project engineer for a custom home builder.”
1. Grace Zell ’07 and Johnathan Longo were married March 27, 2022, at Congregation Beth Ahabah in Richmond.
3. Caroline Diemer ’10 married Garland Ditz on March 20, 2021, in Charlottesville, Va.
2009 Carter Stephens recently graduated from Wharton Business School with an MBA and will head back to New York in the fall to work at Bain & Co.
2013 Barrett Redmond graduated with a Master of Development Practice from the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley.
2010 Caroline Diemer married Garland Ditz on March 20, 2021 in Charlottesville, Va.
2011 After developing markets all over the world for DoorDash, Thomas Stephens has settled in San Francisco.
10. Avery Freeman ’18 graduated from the College of William & Mary with a B.S. in Kinesiology & Health Sciences and Psychology.
88 SPARK | Class Notes
2017 The Class of 2017 girls met up for another Denver reunion. About a half dozen boys from the class attended as well. A good time was had by all!
Alexa Cecil graduated from VCU School of Medicine and matched at Wake Forest for Internal Medicine Residency.
7. Taylor Daniels appeared in the first episode of this season’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
8. Millie DuBose ’16 married Daniel Lynch on November 20, 2021.
2019 Anne Mason Ruth completed a semester abroad in Florence, Italy with several friends from UGA and other colleges. She traveled to over 10 countries with her friends and even ran into classmate Anne Claire Quindoza in Dublin, Ireland for Saint Patrick’s day.
The celebration was limited to immediate family and friends (including bridesmaid Hillary Zell) due to COVID. Caroline and Garland just recently celebrated their first anniversary in March 2022 at their original venue in Kiawah, S.C., surrounded by all their friends and family.
2. Brooke Meredith Stallings ’07 married Joseph Wayne Humphrey on June 27, 2020, in Jackson, Wyo.
9. The Class of 2017 girls met up for another Denver reunion.
2016 Millie DuBose, daughter of Emily Hilbert DuBose ’89, married Daniel Lynch on November 20, 2021, surrounded by multiple generations of Cougars!
6. Alexa Cecil ’12 graduated from VCU School of Medicine and matched at Wake Forest for Internal Medicine Residency.
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Mackey Tillman, father of Meda Barnes ’89 and Junior Kindergarten Teacher Tia Owen, father-in-law of Duncan Owen ’86, and grandfather of Duncan Owen ’18, Carter Owen ’20 and Catherine Owen ’24, died Feb. 21, Suzanne2022.Wilson, grandmother of Claire Wilson ’18, died Feb. 22, 2022.
Floyd Gottwald Jr., father of William Gottwald ’66, Jim Gottwald ’70 and John Gottwald ’72; father-in-law of Meg Gottwald ’74; stepfather of Elizabeth Hyman ’83; stepfather-in-law of Chris Hyman ’79; grandfather of Michael Gottwald ’02, Beth Gottwald ’03, Matt Gottwald ’99, Sally Poole ’01, Sam Gottwald ’02, James Gottwald ’05, Chase Gottwald ’08 and Addie Gottwald ’10; step-grandfather of Leesa Gregory P ’26, Jill Witty Evarts ’94, Toddy Jordan ’14, Emma Hyman ’17, Stewart Hyman ’18 and Kitchy Hyman ’21; great-grandfather of Ben Gottwald ’34 and Elisabeth Gottwald ’34; and stepgreat-grandfather of Thomas Gregory ’26, Ravenna Evarts ’28 and Alastair Evarts ’33, died Jan. 27, 2022.
90 SPARK | Class Notes
Daniel Yates, father-in-law of former Upper School Latin Teacher Joel Nuckols, grandfather of Jenny Ferry ’96, Mary Margaret Mayer ’98 and Joey Nuckols ’02, grandfather-in-law of Middle School Advisor and Teacher Mike Ferry, and greatgrandfather of Joseph Ferry ’21, Jack Ferry ’24, Janey Ferry ’26, James Ferry ’28 and Joy Ferry ’35, died Feb. 16, 2022.
Dudley Ottley, father-in-law of Haley Ottley ’87, and grandfather of Mary Ottley Berndt ’17, Catherine Ottley ’19 and Lucy Ottley ’23 died Jan. 26, 2022.
Carrie Olewine, great-grandmother of Sam Roberts ’18, Luke Roberts ’19, Jane Roberts ’24, Eliza Stone ’22 and Charlie Stone ’25, died March 10, 2022.
Hugh Heishman, grandfather of Anne Hedgepeth ’03 and Amy Civetti ’06, died March 1, 2022.
Martha Keiger, grandmother of Joe Keiger ’14, died March 13, 2022.
Deborah Moncol, great-aunt of May Moncol ’28 and Siddalee Moncol ’32, died March 23, 2022.
Stewart Cannell, grandfather of Sophie Saunders ’32, died Jan. 22, 2022. Eunice Wilder, mother of Larry Wilder ’80 and Loren Wilder ’82 died Jan. 23, 2022.
Dudley Wiltshire, mother of Chris Wiltshire ’72 and Curt Wiltshire ’75, and grandmother of Brett Wiltshire ’03, Jimmy Wiltshire ’07, Brian Wiltshire ’09, Katie Wiltshire Day ’10, Rachel Narauth ’10 and Rebecca Narauth ’12, died March 4, 2022.
Barbara Edmonds, mother of John Edmonds ’75 and David Edmonds ’77, died March 19, 2022.
Richard Weakley, father of Lynne Weakley Cox ’73 and Richard Weakley ’75, died J an. 31, Brenda2022.Brophy, mother of Alec Brophy ’90, died Feb. 1, 2022. Sarah Day, mother of Anne Friddell ’71, Frances Dille ’74, William Day ’76, grandmother of Mac Friddell ’02, Ginnie Kurtz ’04, Francie Hewett ’06, Robert Friddell ’09, and great-grandmother of Pitt Friddell ’35, died Feb. 1, 2022. Harriett Miller, mother of William “Tom” Miller ’74 and grandmother of Will Miller ’15, died Feb. 2, 2022. Anthony Coleman, father of Jeremiah Coleman ’93, died Feb. 3, 2022.
Roger Dixon, grandfather of Jackson Scott ’25 and Elle Scott ’25, died Feb. 3, 2022.
IN MEMORIAM
Our condolences are offered to these members of the Collegiate family.
Allen David Carli, brother-in-law of Sandy Moore Carli ’79 and uncle of Morgan Salmon ’00 and Elizabeth SalmonMassman ’04, died March 1, 2022.
Dr. Debi Mukherjee, grandfather of AJ Mukherjee ’28 and Addie Mukherjee ’30, died March 6, 2022.
Anne Buford, great-grandmother of Peyton Schutt ’34, died March 10, 2022.
Bruce Evans, mother of Anne Bruce Ahearn ’87, Emily Oney ’89 and Pope Ashworth ’91, stepmother of Mollie Tinsley ’81 and Susan Williams ’83, and grandmother of Thompson Oney ’16, Brett Oney ’18, Emma Ahearn ’19 and George Ahearn ’20, died Jan. 28, 2022.
Stella Miante, mother of Lower School Librarian Cheryl Matson, and grandmother of Brooke Matson ’07 and Amy Matson ’10, died Feb. 13, 2022.
Margaret Chappell, mother of Mary Margaret Chappell ’86 and Bill Chappell ’90, aunt of Ann Ramage ’92, Sam Ramage ’98 and Beth Schwarz ’02, died Feb. 8, 2022. Martin Brackett Jr., father-in-law of Callie Brackett ’95, and grandfather of Jones Brackett ’22 and Ben Brackett ’24, died Feb. 9, 2022.
John Sankey, brother of Tom Sankey ’77 died Dec. 23, 2021. Garland Flippen, husband of Besty Conner Flippen ’67, brother of Joyce Flippen Nash ’60, brother-in-law of Cristy Conner Jarvis ’68 as well as Margaret Conner ’70 and Steve Gentil ’70, Mary Conner ’72 and Frank “Rusty” Conner ’74, died Jan. 18, 2022.
Harriett Fitzgerald, grandmother of John Neal ’01, Sarah Neal Spurling ’03 and Christopher Pembroke ’12, died April 6, 2022.
LAURA DECK
The Following is an abridged version of a piece written by Weldon Bradshaw in memoriam of Laura Deck. “Be kind where possible. It is always possible.” - The 14th Dalai Lama. Simple words. Powerful words. Words to reflect upon. Words to live by. Laura Deck lived them. She lived them well, and true to her nature, she lived them without fanfare or pretense. Understated kindness, it seemed, was part of Laura’s DNA. She took time for others, she listened intently, she offered counsel when asked, she measured her words, she asked nothing in return, and in so doing, she lightened the burden of those whose paths crossed hers and made their days better. So it was with Laura, who taught Middle School science at Collegiate from 1989 until her retirement, which was filled with inquiry and adventure, in 2009. Our friend and colleague passed away May 3, several months after her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Through her many challenges, she remained positive, upbeat, uncomplaining and resolute, even as the disease took its toll. In her toughest times, if you called or stopped by to cheer her up, she cheered you up. She smiled when she could smile, which was often. She cried when she had to cry. She was courageous to the very SUMMERend.
Carol Leedes, mother of John Leedes ’85, died April 6, Sheeran2022.Flournoy, stepmother of John Flournoy ’88 and Jamie Flournoy ’90, died April 7, 2022. David Harrison IV, father of Aynsley Harrison ’06 and Marsi Harrison ’08, died April 13, 2022. Paul Zamecnik, father of Brian Zamecnik ’13 and Maddy Zamecnik ’19, died April 13, 2022. Nellie Zaun, grandmother of Murphy Zaun ’16, Harper Zaun ’18 and Ryann Zaun ’22, died April 13, 2022. H. Coleman Nichols Jr., father of Chris Nichols ’86 and Melissa Nichols Mason ’87, died April 16, 2022. Emily Richardson, mother-in-law of Upper School Teacher Linda Rouse, and grandmother of Jensen Richardson ’19 and Finian Richardson ’23, died April 24, 2022.
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Annette Chapman, former Lower School Teacher, mother of Stuart Chapman Roberts ’77 and Mason Chapman ’84, and grandmother of Chap Roberts ’12, Tyler Roberts ’14 and Mason Chapman Jr. ’22, died May 1, 2022. Joyce Turner, mother of Sam Turner ’92, died May 1, 2022. Bette Gilchrist, grandmother of Charlie Nanavati ’23 and Kate Nanavati ’25, died May 5, Thomas2022.Jones, grandfather of Tommy Blain ’07, Andy Blain ’09, Mac Blain ’14, and grandfather-in-law of Abigail Glasgow ’14, died May 11, 2022. Donald E. Perry, father of Donna Perry ’81, Jeff Perry ’79, Jon Prevatt ’82 and Brent Prevatt ’84 and grandfather of Eli Schwartz ’20, died May 11, 2022. Marguerite Bostic, mother of Taylor Bostic ’15 and Zach Bostic ’18, died May 12, 2022. ALUMNI Eugenia Farrow Farrar ’54 Elizabeth “Ki” Caldwell ’63 Bunny Gentry Williams ’72 Anne Ward Horton ’73 Ralph Robinson “Rob” Crosby ’83 James “Jim” Key ’89 Tara Gervin ’88
Jayesh Kapadia, grandfather of Sonja Kapadia ’17 and Shaan Kapadia ’19, died April 1, 2022.
PLEASE NOTE: These notices were received as of May 12, 2022. This In Memoriam section is taken from printed obituaries, which may be edited for space. Please contact our office if the information is incomplete. The information included is compiled from our database, which is continually updated. To submit a condolence, email spark@collegiate-va.org.
Graham Chandler Williams, father-in-law of Middle School Teacher Katie Roski, and grandfather of A.V. Musick ’26 and Ryland Musick ’27, died April 5, 2022. George Davis, grandfather of Brandon Anderson ’25, died April 6, 2022.
Stanhope Whitehead, father of Jason Whitehead ’93, died April 1, 2022.
Charles Webber, father of Kim Webber Bain ’73 and Mary Webber ’83, died March 26, 2022.
Lois Ascari, grandmother of Chase Ascari ’05, Meredith Ascari ’07 and Grant Ascari ’10, died April 5, 2022.
92 SPARK | Teacher's Take
A TEACHER’S TAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER
Chris Berry T his was not Chris Berry’s first year at Collegiate School. He arrived on North Mooreland Road in 2017, while still taking classes at Virginia Commonwealth University, working as an Activities Quest counselor. This was, however, his first year as a teacher.
“It’s been a big change this year to go from playing basketball with the students to teaching them math,” he says. “But it’s been special to watch and help the students grow in the classroom.” Mr. Berry sat down to talk about his first year in the classroom, the educational environment at Collegiate and the fun of learning.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR STUDENTS TAKE WITH THEM WHEN THEY LEAVE YOUR CLASSROOM? Honestly, a love for learning everything. I want them to be able to learn and enjoy learning about different things. I want them to be curious — to be curious about what’s in front of them and to be curious about the world. I want them to come away with the understanding that learning is fun, that it isn’t just for a grade. Learning is something that will help you with different avenues in your life. AS YOU FINISH UP YOUR FIRST YEAR IN THE CLASSROOM, WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? What I’m most proud of is the growth I’ve seen in each of my students since the first day of school. They’ve grown in so many different ways — and not just academically.
WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO TEACHING?
Collegiate is a warm and inviting place every single day. When I come into this room each morning, students will come in just to say hello and kind of hang out for a moment. It goes back to the community aspect. Another reason why I chose to work at Collegiate is the autonomy to teach the curriculum. That autonomy creates learning that lasts — it allows you to explore more — and that is the type of learning that sticks with you.
My number one, two and three priorities as a teacher are relationships. Getting to know each student for who they are is important. Every student has a different background and a different learning profile. Forming those relationships with your students helps create an environment that encourages them to learn and creates a space where they will want to explore.
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WHAT MAKES TEACHING AT COLLEGIATE SO SPECIAL?
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT COLLEGIATE?
Being a first year teacher, you expect that you have to be serious all the time. But, as I’ve said, learning is fun. And what’s been surprising is how willing the students are to be fun and flexible in their learning. For example, if we’re speaking about math, we will cover everything we need to cover and then we’ll play a game that incorporates what we’ve just learned. So I’ve really enjoyed discovering educational games that use the subjects we’re learning about and applying them in new, fun and engaging ways.
Middle School is a unique time when students are trying to find themselves. And I wanted to be a positive role model for students as they’re growing up a bit. So just being that role model for them as a younger teacher, as a Black teacher, and showing them that they are capable of all these different kinds of growth is why I chose to work in the Middle School.
WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU ABOUT YOUR FIRST YEAR IN THE CLASSROOM?
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT TEACHING IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL?
The people and the community. And the learning environment here — the atmosphere around the classrooms — makes the experience better. The resources here, the commitment to professional development, is really special. That’s something I find really important, because I want to keep getting better, and to have Tung [Head of the Middle School] constantly coming to me and asking, “Hey, do you want to do this in the summer? Do you want to go to this workshop?” is really encouraging.
103 North Mooreland Road Richmond, Virginia 23229
Seniors cross the bridge as their classmates cheer them on during the inaugural Closing Celebration ceremony.
