Students in Pre-K through 12th grade of Class of 2024 graduates were accepted to at least one of their Top 3 college choices
Inquire now to ensure you’re among the first to know when our application for admission opens.
Athletic teams Fine arts shows and performances annually
Pre-K3 through Junior Kindergarten: November 15
Kindergarten: December 15
Grades 1-12: January 15
With each passing year at Battle Ground Academy, I am increasingly amazed at the pace of change in the world around us and the unchanging needs of the young people who walk these halls. As you read the incredible stories in this edition of Echo, I hope that what will resonate with you is the school’s unwavering commitment to prepare students for that ever-changing world while remaining grounded in our history of providing guidance, mentorship, and opportunities for our students to thrive well beyond their time at BGA.
Perhaps no better evidence of those commitments is what came to light in the process of creating our most recent strategic plan. With incredible community input and thoughtful guidance from both the steering committee and our outside consultants, Ian Symmonds and Crane+Peters, what emerged this past spring is a plan that serves every student now and in the future. You can read more about “Our Way Forward” beginning on page 18.
A key piece of our planning process was also recognizing what has gone well already and how that can be enhanced. You’ll see stories in this edition of alumni who are already embodying so many of the elements contained within the strategic plan. Whether it is the entrepreneurial spirit of starting a company or leading efforts across industries to improve the world around them, BGA alumni continue to stand apart in their communities because of their positive contributions.
While our alumni throughout the years are doing amazing things, our most recent alumni, the Class of 2024, demonstrated the incredible impact that our program had on them in their development for the future. With 90% earning merit-based scholarships totaling over $14 million (nearly $150,000 per student) and 95% getting into one of their top three choices for school, they achieved remarkable success in the college process. Additionally, they made countless contributions to our teams, performances, and community service throughout their time at BGA. They are truly a class to be congratulated and celebrated for their achievements!
Speaking of celebrations, I hope that you will consider joining us for this year’s Homecoming & Reunion festivities that begin the week of October 7. It should be a wonderful time to get together with old friends, make new ones, and celebrate our school together.
Sincerely,
Will Kesler Head of School
The Summer 2024 edition of Echo is published by the Battle Ground Academy Office of Advancement for alumni, parents, grandparents, students, faculty, and friends.
HEAD OF SCHOOL
William F. Kesler
CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Colleen Hoke ‘87
2023-24 PRESIDENT, ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
Jacqueline LaFont ‘07
2024-25 PRESIDENT, ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
Julianne Isaacs Cantey ‘08
ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL FOR ADVANCEMENT
Jesse Underwood
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Lauren Self
COMMUNICATION CONTENT
SPECIALIST
Alex Jacobi
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
Claudia Stetter
WRITERS
Mandy Crow
Naomi Haddock
Paul A. Anthony
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER
Megan Willoughby
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Alday Communications
Leah Handelsman
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Tim Jones
Adam Sain
Greg Smit
“Don’t stop! Keep going!”
These were the words repeated to each Plato by Upper School English teacher Sam Wade ’12 as they exited the bus to make the trek down to the Harpeth River for the 85th annual Tug. This year, the Platos were on what many call the less advantageous side of the river, a steep-sloped side prone to mud.
As both the Greers and Platos took their positions at the rope, a large crowd above on Highway 96 cheered them on. At the sound of the starting pistol, the competition began.
The Tug is a time for all of BGA to come together, for friends and family to watch, and for many faculty and staff to join the students on the rope. Wade was one of many adults down at the rope, pulling with the students.
“You never know how exhausting a tug-of-war is until you’re in one. Your grip alone exhausts you. Your forearms burn, biceps sear with pain. I’m not as young as I used to be when I pulled in the springs of ’09-’12, but in the moment, adrenaline takes over and pushes you further than you even intend to go,” Wade said.
For this year’s Tug, many participants would go further than ever before, with the competition lasting for 4 minutes and 43 seconds, one of the longest Tugs in BGA history.
“I have never been part of a Tug like that before. The emotions you went through as you had time to think about each step in your direction never quite matched what I experienced as a student,” Wade said.
After a long pull, the siren finally sounded, and it was the Platos who took the victory, keeping their record of most Tug wins. As of this year, the Platos have 43 wins, and the Greers follow closely behind with 40 wins. There have been two ties in the Tug’s history, both resulting from the rope breaking.
“The Tug is the culmination of the idea of community at BGA, and it’s the thing you look forward to all year. The frustration and hard work of grades, athletic competitions, performances, relationships are exorcised at the end of that rope,” Wade said.
“It’s a tremendous lesson for the end of a school year: to never give up and always keep your feet moving.”
This fall, Battle Ground Academy is opening its Early Learning Center, offering pre-K4 and junior kindergarten again for the first time in over 20 years. Julia Belsante, Early Learning Center Director, oversees the pre-K program, which is located at the First Presbyterian Church on Legends Club Lane in close proximity to BGA’s existing Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools. BGA previously used the space, which was formerly a preschool, to house Lower School classes while completing the Creating Our Future campaign renovations on our Harpeth Campus in Fall 2022.
JULIA BELSANTE Director of Early Learning Center
At the Early Learning Center, pre-K4 and junior kindergarten students are part of an academic program that values learning through inquiry, emphasizing mastery of foundational skills balanced with critical thinking and problem-solving. Students engage with learning through thematic unit centers, hands-on experiments, and thoughtfully planned dramatic play, which are part of a carefully crafted curriculum aimed to ensure students are meeting milestones and tracking toward kindergarten readiness across all learning domains.
“Young children are wired for curiosity. BGA’s inquiry framework offers preschoolers the space to ask big questions and the tools to seek answers. Our goal is to allow our students to remain inquisitive, to develop school readiness skills, and to recognize the importance of good character,” Belsante said.
In Fall 2025, the Early Learning Center will include pre-K3. Applications for admission to the Early Learning Center are open now. Interested families are encouraged to apply by November 15 for first-round consideration at battlegroundacademy.org/apply.
Over the summer, our incoming pre-K Wildcats were invited to our Early Learning Center for a special camp designed just for them. The camp featured fun activities like hands-on science experiments, art projects, water games, and more. Campers explored everything from architecture to bubbles to arctic animals. Taught by two lead pre-K teachers, campers grew in their fine motor, literacy, and artistic skills while making new friends and learning pre-K routines.
In January, BGA named Bobby Bentley as its new Head Football Coach following a national search. Bentley previously coached four consecutive state championship teams in South Carolina and was the Lead Analyst for Coach Gus Malzahn at the University of Central Florida.
“Bentley’s track record of success for player development and winning spans both high school and collegiate levels, making him the best possible head of our football program,” said Head of School Will Kesler.
Bentley served as the Head Coach of James F. Byrnes High School in Duncan, S.C., from 1995-2006 and also in 2013. During his time there, his teams won four consecutive state championships from 20022005. He then served as the Head Coach at Presbyterian College from 2007-2008. Prior to his role at Central Florida, Bentley served as an offensive coach for Auburn University, University of South Carolina, and University of South Florida.
“It is an honor for me to be named Head Football Coach at Battle Ground Academy,” said Bentley. “Our goal is to develop a program that all involved can be proud of and truly develops young men on and off the field.”
Since his hiring, Bentley has been preparing the football program for the upcoming season. Over the spring and summer, Bentley conducted team workouts and practices and hosted 7-on-7 games and offensive/defensive line challenges and camps. His philosophy is to get the players to “the other side of hard,” challenging the players to a new level of excellence in their plays.
“His remarkable coaching background, unwavering dedication to excellence, and commitment to fostering the overall growth of our student-athletes make him an ideal fit for our football program,” said Dr. Fred Eaves, Assistant Head of School for Operations and Co-Curricular Programs.
Bentley and his wife, Paulette, have five grown children and one grandchild. He holds a bachelor’s from Presbyterian College, where he played football and baseball, and earned a Master of Education from Converse College.
Scan the QR code to see this season’s schedule and join us for a game!
TONY BUTLER
Co-Defensive Coordinator & ILB Coach
Tony Butler returns to BGA with 19 years of coaching experience. He served as a Defensive Coordinator at Ensworth High School for the previous five seasons.
QUINSHAD DAVIS
Wide Receiver Coach
Quinshad Davis has played football for the Detroit Lions, Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and the Tar Heels, where he holds the all-time receiving touchdowns record. He coached at University of North Carolina, University of South Florida, and Georgia State University.
LANDON MARTIN
Assistant Head Coach & OL Coach
Landon Martin has eight years of collegiate coaching experience, first as an Assistant Offensive Line Coach at the University of South Carolina, then as an Offensive Line Coach for Newberry College.
GARRET REYNOLDS
Tight Ends & RBs Coach
Garret Reynolds is a graduate of University of South Florida, with a bachelor’s degree in Health Science with a focus on Sports Nutrition. While at USF, he was a wide receiver for three years.
VICK WRIGHT
Defensive Backs Coach
Vick Wright was a Director of Player Development for 16 years at National Playmakers Academy. He is also the Founder and CEO of BallHawkU, which provides training to defensive backs.
NATHANIELWUELLNER
Co-Defensive Coordinator & SAF Coach
Nathaniel Wuellner was a Defensive Coordinator for St. Augustine High School and Cornerstone Christian School, where his teams won six district titles and made it to the State Final Four in 2017.
In a significant step toward shaping the future of Battle Ground Academy, Jesse Underwood has joined the institution as the new Assistant Head of School for Advancement. Underwood, who began his role in April, brings over a decade of experience in leading multimilliondollar capital campaigns that have left a transformative mark on higher education and healthcare institutions.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jesse to the BGA family,” said Will Kesler, Head of School. “Our national search brought us a wide array of highly qualified candidates.
Jesse’s extensive experience in fundraising and marketing, particularly within higher education, community support, and healthcare, distinguished him as the ideal choice for this position.”
Underwood’s impressive track record includes the successful completion of a $98 million campaign at Grinnell College, which significantly enhanced athletic facilities and expanded academic opportunities for students. His leadership in these high-impact initiatives aligns seamlessly with BGA’s mission and vision.
A distinguished scholar, Underwood holds a bachelor’s degree from Saint Ambrose University and a master’s degree summa cum laude from Oklahoma State University. His academic achievements, combined with his professional success,
With the launch of our Early Learning Center this fall, the Academy has restructured some of our early childhood faculty positions to best serve our students.
Our previous Head of Lower School Rhonda Bennett has moved into a new position as the Head of Early Childhood Learning, encompassing pre-K through fourth grade. This role, while continuing to provide oversight and support of both campuses, will take on more outward-facing responsibilities, preparing BGA for the growth of the pre-K and Lower School programs.
With Bennett’s shift, BGA hired Emily Butler as the Director of Primary and Intermediate Education, and in this role, Butler will lead students, faculty, and staff at the Lower School and also address Lower School parents’ inquiries and concerns.
Additionally, she will develop educational programs and intiatives for the primary and intermediate levels.
With over a decade of experience in education and leadership roles, Butler brings a wealth of knowledge to her new position. Butler comes to BGA from Fairview Elementary, where she went from teacher to instructional leader to assistant principal over the course of 13 years. There, she was recognized for her collaborative leadership and thoughtful guidance of students, teachers, and families.
Finally, our previous Assistant Head of Lower School Ashley Pratt is now the Director of Learning Services. This is a K-12 administrative position, and Pratt will oversee each division’s learning services program and Academic Resource Center.
position him well to advance BGA’s culture of philanthropy.
“Battle Ground Academy is a very special place, deeply rooted in rich traditions and academic excellence,” Underwood said. “My top priority is to lead the way into the future, ensuring that our stories are shared and our impact is felt by students today and tomorrow. I am excited to work alongside the exceptional leadership already in place at BGA and to engage with the devoted families who value the academy’s commitment to excellence.”
Underwood and his wife, Jessica, are proud parents to three adult children –Derrick, Brandon, and Jazz – and have two grandchildren, Violet and Kash.
Beckie Gibson retired after 12 years of teaching at BGA and 50 years of teaching total. Over the course of her career, she’s received several accolades. In 2015, she was inducted into the Tennessee World Language Teaching Association Hall of Fame. Before her induction into the TWLTA Hall of Fame, she was named the TWLTA Teacher of the Year in 1988. She has established a wellknown legacy at BGA, and we wish her all the best!
When Kara Froula ’00 was a student at BGA, she found mentorship and an ability to think more deeply. This past year, she gave that same mentorship and education to the current students of BGA through being an Entrepreneur in Residence for BGA’s Entrepreneurial Leadership program.
The founder and creator of BackEmbrace, a posture corrector to relieve back pain, tension, and strain, Froula is an entrepreneur who didn’t initially set out to be a business owner. In her late 20s, she was working at a PR firm in Los Angeles, and it was there that she discovered a problem with no solution – back pain and the need for a posture corrector that was discreet, stylish, and effective. All the posture correctors she found were uncomfortable and bulky, so she set out to make hers more sleek and attractive. After some adjusting and sewing, she began wearing her posture corrector out, and people started noticing.
“People were literally stopping me, saying, ‘Where did you get that? I need something for my posture,’” Froula said.
“So I had this light bulb moment and I started researching, and I realized there is a massive market for posture correctors.”
From that realization, BackEmbrace was born, and after six years of operation, BackEmbrace has been featured in prominent media like Good Morning America, CNN, HuffPost, Women’s Health, and more. From Froula’s experience as a business founder and owner, she provided mentorship and feedback to students in the Entrepreneurial Leadership program this past school year.
“I think mentorship and being able to provide guidance is really fun. And I love to hear what these kids are creating. I am so impressed, and they have the most incredible ideas,” Froula said.
Froula took on the opportunity to become an Entrepreneur in Residence at BGA to give back to the place that gave her a strong education.
This fall, BGA will launch a Fine Arts Concentration, its fourth academic concentration in the Upper School. Led by Andrea Howard, Fine Arts Department Chair, the concentration will serve as a beacon for creative exploration and expression.
“Mentorship is key when you’re starting something new. I remember I had so many powerful conversations with people that really moved the needle for me when I was first starting out,” Froula said.
For Froula, being back at BGA was surreal, with plenty of reminders of ways it has remained the same and other ways it has grown, like developing an entrepreneurial leadership program. It was encouraging for her to see how technology has made entrepreneurship possible for the younger generation.
“You can start a business in your basement, on your laptop, and it’s truly amazing. There are so many resources available, with e-commerce and everything being online,” Froula said.
“There are more opportunities now than ever before.”
Students enrolled in the Fine Arts Concentration will have the chance to immerse themselves in various artistic mediums, from painting and sculpture to music and theater. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to utilize new digital art and photography studios in the Mary Campbell Visual Arts Center. Beyond refining their technical skills, the concentration aims to foster self-expression, empathy, and critical thinking.
Through practice, discipline, and constructive critique, students will strive for artistic excellence while simultaneously exploring diverse cultures and perspectives. By delving deeply into their chosen art forms, they will develop a strong sense of artistic literacy and learn to reflect on their emotions, strengths, and limitations.
The introduction of the Fine Arts Concentration underscores BGA’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education that empowers students to pursue their passions and engage meaningfully with the world around them.
As students step into Robyn Randall’s Lower School STEM classroom, they’re not just embarking on a science lesson; they’re about to experience their very own magical journey akin to the adventures of Ms. Frizzle and her iconic Magic School Bus. With a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of imagination, Randall transforms ordinary lessons into extraordinary voyages of discovery.
Last fall, Randall’s third-grade students embarked on a mission to design their own figurines using a 3D printer. Little did they know, these figurines would become catalysts for a cross-cultural exchange that spanned continents.
“When my mom and I discussed the project, I saw an incredible opportunity for my students to engage with English in a meaningful way,” said Randall’s son, Justin, who teaches English in Kushiro, Japan. Much like the Magic School Bus taking students on field trips to diverse destinations, these figurines became vehicles for learning and cultural exploration.
Through written booklets and photos, Japanese students shared glimpses of their lives, schools, and traditions with their American counterparts. Armed with Google Translate and a thirst for knowledge, BGA third graders deciphered Kanji characters, unlocking the stories hidden within.
For Randall, this cross-cultural exchange reinforced that education knows no bounds and learning is an adventure waiting to be explored.
“Science isn’t confined to the walls of a classroom,” Randall said. “It’s a journey of exploration, connection, and understanding. And together, we’re shaping a brighter future for generations to come.”
With Randall at the helm, the classroom truly becomes a magical place where learning knows no limits.
In the rhythm of Battle Ground Academy’s spirited gatherings, there’s a newfound pulse beating louder than ever – the BGA Pep Band. Led by Dave Lassell, Director of Instrumental Music, this ensemble has transformed from a modest start into a burgeoning force of musical enthusiasm.
Starting with just a few students, the BGA Pep Band has grown into a diverse group of over 6o Middle and Upper School musicians. What’s more remarkable than the numbers, however, is the infectious spirit they bring to every performance.
The BGA Pep Band undeniably adds a vibrant layer to school events. From energizing pep rallies to bidding farewell to teams heading off to state tournaments, and igniting the stands at varsity home football games, their presence is felt and appreciated.
What’s truly inspiring is the band’s growing allure. More students are
drawn to join its ranks, inspired by the camaraderie and the opportunity to contribute to something bigger than themselves. It’s not about perfection but about the collective effort to amplify school spirit through music.
Under Lassell’s guidance, students are not only honing their musical talents but also learning the values of teamwork, dedication, and the joy of shared accomplishment.
“The pep band serves as a testament to the
power of music to unite a community and uplift spirits,” Lassell said.
According to Lassell, the Pep Band gives BGA students an opportunity to contribute to the energy of crowds at sporting events, along with showing support of players.
“I appreciate the dedication of both the students and parents as we work long days during every sports season. I look forward to seeing what the kids can accomplish as we grow the program,” Lassell said.
The revival of the Wildcat Choir has brought a wave of melody and harmony in the bustling halls of the Lower School. Led by Lower School Music Instructor Lisa Brewer, this extracurricular opportunity has become a beacon of artistic expression for third and fourth grade students.
Through weekly rehearsals, students explore the power of their voices and the joy of making music together. Brewer said that it’s not just about hitting the right notes; it’s about students embracing the opportunity for self-expression and finding confidence in their voices.
For Brewer, the joy of seeing her students shine on stage is immeasurable.
“The Wildcat Choir is more than just a choir,” Brewer said.
“It’s a community where students develop valuable skills – discipline, dedication, and collaboration – that will shape their
character and serve them well beyond their elementary years. The choir serves as a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing the whole child, fostering creativity, and instilling a lifelong love of the arts.”
FUN FACT:
Former Lower School music teacher
Lauren Baker founded the Wildcat Choir in 2003 with 59 participants, including Dr. Charlie Snider ‘12, son of longtime faculty member, BGA Middle and Upper School Choral Director Anne Snider.
In the spring of 2021, Battle Ground Academy proudly opened the doors of its Sondra Morris and Robert N. Moore, Jr. ’52 Center for Arts and Entrepreneurship, a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation among its students. Funded through generous donations to the school’s Creating Our Future capital campaign, this state-of-the-art facility has quickly become the beating heart of BGA’s drama and music communities, igniting a wave of enthusiasm and excitement for the performing arts.
Equipped with a cutting-edge theater, spacious rehearsal spaces, a scene shop and makerspace, and makeup and dressing rooms, the Center provides students with the resources they need to explore, create, and innovate.
Since its opening, the Center has catalyzed a remarkable transformation in BGA’s theatre arts program. One of the most notable additions has been the introduction of a Middle School musical, providing younger students with a platform to showcase their talents and immerse themselves in the world of performing arts. This addition not only cultivates a passion for the arts from a young age but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among students across grade levels.
Central to BGA’s success in the theatre arts has been the appointment of a dedicated Theatre Technical Director and Theatre Arts Instructor, Janek Urbanowicz. With Urbanowicz’s guidance and expertise,
students have learned how to produce high-quality productions that captivate audiences and showcase the depth of talent at BGA. Working alongside Urbanowicz, Upper School Drama Director Jenny Wallace leads students in excellence in their acting and character development.
The recent staging of “Big Fish” by the Upper School Spring musical exemplifies the Center’s transformative impact. Boasting the largest cast to date and involving both Middle and Upper School students, the production served as a testament to the collaborative spirit and artistic excellence that flourishes within the halls of the Academy.
Beyond productions, the Center serves as a hub for artistic exploration and innovation, as students explore a diverse range of elective courses and extracurricular activities to pursue their passions and refine their skills. Recent additions to the Middle and Upper School drama curriculum include musical theatre, sketch comedy, stage combat, and on-screen acting. Whether through designing sets,
In April, Jimin Lee ‘27 won first place in the 2024 Congressional Art Competition with her colored pencil drawing entitled, “Outlook.” In July, she was honored at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., and her artwork will be on display at the U.S. Capitol for one year.
“I am extremely proud of Jimin for this honor and excited that her work will be
showcased nationally,” said Wendi Parker, Upper School Visual Arts teacher.
“Her piece is not just an impressive drawing but is a window into the depth of Jimin’s creativity and perspective. Watching her progress as her teacher has been a delight, and I’m eager to see where her talent takes her next.”
acting, or musical performance, students are encouraged to unleash their creativity and explore new avenues of expression.
Battle Ground Academy’s Center for Arts and Entrepreneurship stands as a beacon of creativity and innovation, providing students with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive in the arts and beyond. Thanks to the support of the Creating Our Future capital campaign, BGA has embarked on a journey of artistic discovery, shaping the next generation of artists and visionaries.
THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE HAS YOUR NAME ON IT
BGA invites you to secure your place in our new Center for Arts and Entrepreneurship theater. For a donation of $5,000, you can secure your seat and play a crucial role in our capital campaign. Scan the QR code to Take Your Seat today!
Last fall, our boys golf team took home their first Division II-A TSSAA State Championship win in school history, securing the team title with a score of +17, 593, finishing four strokes ahead of Franklin Road Academy after two rounds. The team was led by Head Boys Golf Coach Brent McLay and Boys Golf Coach Trey Meyer.
“It was such an amazing achievement for our boys golf team to capture the first State Championship in history for the BGA boys golf program,” Meyer said.
“Our young men worked so hard throughout the year to make sure they were playing at their best when it mattered most, and ultimately, that is what gave us the victory over six-time state champion Christian Academy of Knoxville and local rival Franklin Road Academy.”
Kavien Jones ’24 has etched his name in the school’s sports history books by becoming the first Wildcat to be named Mr. Basketball for TSSAA Division II-A. It’s a milestone that not only celebrates his exceptional talent but also underscores the growing legacy of excellence in BGA athletics.
With over 1,000 points scored during his BGA basketball career and an impressive 73% two-point scoring average, Jones led the varsity boys basketball team to an impressive 20-2 record, showcasing his skill, determination, and leadership on the court.
“Winning Mr. Basketball is a tremendous achievement, and having our school’s firstever recipient is a landmark moment for our athletic program,” said Dr. Fred Eaves, Assistant Head of School for Operations and Co-Curricular Programs.
“This honor reflects not only the hard work, dedication, and exceptional talent of Jones but also the support and commitment of our coaches, teammates, and the entire school community. It inspires all of us to strive for excellence and reinforces our belief that with hard work, enthusiasm, accountability, resilience, and teamwork, we can reach new heights. This is a proud time for our school, and we look forward to celebrating many more successes in the future. We are very proud of Kavien, and I cannot think of a better student to represent our school and athletics program as our first Mr. Basketball winner.”
Jones will continue his basketball career at the collegiate level this fall at Tennessee State University.
In May, Laurel Phelps ’24 and Miller Mabury ’25 took home the Division II-A TSSAA State Championship titles in the pentathlon with 3,031 points and decathlon with 6,499 points, respectively. Additionally, Phelps and Mabury are the first-ever BGA athletes to win a state pentathlon and decathlon.
By winning these state championship titles, Phelps and Mabury qualified for nationals, traveling to Eugene, Ore., over the summer to compete in the Nike Outdoor Nationals.
“This season was a remarkable one for both Laurel and Miller, and we are so proud of the way they represented themselves and their school on the state and national stage. As impressive as they are as athletes, we are even more proud of who they are as people and teammates,” said Upper School Track and Field Coach Luke Johnson.
Johnson said that Phelps has been a vital part of the Track and Field program in her time at BGA.
“Her impact on the program will be felt for years to come. She is the most versatile athlete I’ve ever coached, and her dedication to her school, sport, and team is something I hope our younger athletes will emulate,” Johnson said.
For Mabury, Johnson said that he sees more successes to come in Mabury’s upcoming senior year.
“It seems crazy to say this after he just won four state championships as a junior, but Miller is just scratching the surface of his abilities. Even when conditions weren’t ideal or he caught a bad break, he always remained calm and focused,” Johnson said.
Football: Qualified for State Playoffs
Boys soccer: Regular Season Region Champions, State Quarterfinalist
Girls soccer: Regular Season and Tournament
Region Champions, State Quarterfinalist
Boys cross country: Top 4 in Region
Girls cross country: Top 4 in Region
Boys golf: State Champions
Girls golf: 3rd Place in Regional Tournament
Boys basketball: Region Tournament
Qualification
Wrestling: Final Four in State Duals Tournament
Softball: District Runner-Up, Regional Quarterfinalist
Boys track: Top 4 at State Meet
Girls track: Top 6 at State Meet
Boys tennis: District Runner-Up, State Quarterfinalist
Girls tennis: State Tournament Round of 12
Congratulations to the following Wildcats who received All-State honors:
Kavien Jones ‘24 (Basketball)
Laurel Phelps ‘24 (Track, State Champion)
Jeremiah Rhames ‘24 (Wrestling, State Medalist)
Cash Britt ‘25 (Track)
D.J. Haws ‘25 (Track)
Jackie Henderson ‘25 (Golf)
Hayden Hervey ‘25 (Wrestling, State Medalist)
Miller Mabury ‘25 (Track, State Champion)
Gabe Min ‘25 (Track)
Nate Fleming ‘26 (Wrestling, State Medalist)
Leo Froio ‘26 (Golf, State Runner-Up)
Kaedyn Marable ‘26 (Track)
Lola Padula ‘26 (Soccer)
Cates Kennedy ‘27 (Track)
In addition, multiple Wildcats were named to All-District and All-Region teams:
21
All-District Athletes
31 All-Region Athletes
Congratulations to Softball Coach Eric Fruechtemeyer on being named TSSAA Division II-A Middle Region Coach of the Year!
Scan the QR code to see more information on our athletes’ accomplishments:
In April, Middle School students laced up their sneakers for a meaningful cause – a one-mile run on campus in support of Team Chad, an organization dedicated to helping cancer patients and their families in Tennessee. Since 2007, Team Chad has contributed over $2 million to assist those in need.
The event not only raised funds but also taught valuable lessons about empathy and the impact of collective effort.
Franklin Parks; Samantha Castro, mother of Elliot Grace Castro; Claire Deppe ‘25; Ann Gentry Lambert ‘25; Detlef Gerbing ‘25; Brandy Blanton, Franklin Alderman and grandmother of Elliot Grace Castro; Taylor Suggs, Community Outreach and Engagement Coordinator of Friends of Franklin Parks; and Scout Hardin, Development Director of Friends of Franklin Parks.
The 2023-24 Upper School Student Council selected Friends of Franklin Parks (FOFP) to be BGA’s Institution of Emphasis, signifying the school’s dedicated efforts toward supporting the nonprofit’s work to preserve cultural and natural resources, conserve public open spaces, and enhance park and trail experiences.
Throughout the year, BGA students volunteered with Friends of Franklin Parks by participating in river bed cleanups, assisting at the organization’s annual fundraising gala, and organizing creative fundraising activities, including a cookie eating contest, a dress down day, and a bake sale. These combined efforts culminated in a generous $2,000 donation to Ellie G’s Dream World.
Leigh Roberts, Director of Student Engagement and Global Studies, highlighted the deeper impact of this involvement. “The lesson in service that we learned from being a part of Ellie G’s Dream World is not just about raising money or participation,” Roberts said. “It’s about learning someone’s story and taking part in your community, which creates a culture of service and a lasting love for giving back.”
This $2,000 donation is part of the impressive $893,000 raised so far,
bringing the community closer to the $1.5 million goal to help the City of Franklin complete the $3 million project. Ellie G’s Dream World, envisioned as Franklin’s first inclusive playground, will be located within the new southeast Municipal Complex on Carothers Parkway and aims to provide a space where children of all abilities can play together.
FOFP Executive Director, Torrey Barnhill, praised the students for their dedication and community spirit. “We are so proud of these young leaders for their commitment to creating a space in our community where all people can play together regardless of their physical abilities,” Barnhill said. “The future of Franklin is in good hands with these students.”
Battle Ground Academy students demonstrate a strong commitment to service, completing more than 17,000 community service hours annually. Their enthusiastic participation in projects like Ellie G’s Dream World exemplifies how collective effort and dedication can lead to meaningful change and build a more inclusive community.
In April, our Lower School students engaged in meaningful community service activities that showcased their commitment to helping others and making a positive impact close to home. Here’s a snapshot of how each grade contributed:
Kindergarten students collected food items for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church’s food pantry, each carrying a donated item during their walk to the church. They learned about food insecurity and saw how their donations directly support those in need.
First graders crafted ceramic smiles to deliver to Main Street merchants, spreading joy and appreciation throughout our local business community with their heartfelt gestures.
Second and third graders worked collaboratively on a project to enhance our butterfly garden. Second graders designed nature scenes on stones, while third graders added inspirational quotes, creating a beautiful pathway that reflects their creativity and teamwork.
Fourth graders focused on creating an imagination garden for future students to enjoy, transforming an area of our school grounds into a space that sparks creativity and imagination.
These activities not only benefited our community but also taught our students valuable lessons about empathy, generosity, and the importance of giving back. It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm and the positive impact they made through their efforts.
During the 2023-24 school year, BGA students engaged with more than 100 nonprofits, contributing their time and skills to meaningful causes, including the ones listed below.
1Team1Goal
Adventure Science Center
Alzheimer’s Association
American Red Cross
Barefoot Republic
Best Buddies of Tennessee
Boy Scouts of America
Brentwood Baptist Church
Brentwood Library
Bridges Domestic Violenece Center
Brightstone
Church of the City
Cooper Trooper Foundation
Fill the Closet
First Presbyterian Church of Franklin
Franklin First United Methodist Church
Franklin Rodeo
Friends of Franklin Parks
GraceWorks Ministries
Jewish Family Services
Last Minute Toy Store
Love on Wheels
Morning Pointe of Franklin
Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt
Nashville Rescue Mission
OneGenAway
Ronald McDonald House
Saddle Up!
Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle
Tennessee
Smithsonian Institution
Soles4Souls
Swim Across America
Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home
The Store
Williamson County Animal Center
Wounded Warrior Project
Youth Villages
We’re eager to expand our community partnerships and invite nonprofits
interested in collaborating or hosting student volunteers to contact the following:
Steven Iannuccilli, Upper School Community Service Coordinator steven.iannuccilli@mybga.org
Dana Keck, Middle School Community Service Coordinator dana.keck@mybga.org
Charlotte Scholl, Lower School Community Service Coordinator charlotte.scholl@mybga.org
Together, we can continue to make a difference in our community!
oet Robert Burns may not have had the coronavirus in mind when he wrote about “the best laid plans of mice and men” often going awry, but when BGA finalized its previous strategic plan in September 2019, Head of School Will Kesler and the administrative team had no idea that the next five years would be so turbulent.
Now, with a new strategic plan taking effect this summer, BGA is again looking five years ahead – working to ensure its students are prepared to be leaders in whatever world awaits them when they graduate.
“We want to put ourselves in the spot where we have leadership capacities at the center of the BGA experience,” said Kesler. “We are well-positioned to meet this moment in order to give our graduates the tools they need to be successful.”
The new BGA strategic plan, approved by the Board of Trustees in February and effective July 1, is the result of a monthslong collaborative process in which about 1,000 members of the BGA community provided input – either through surveys, work sessions, or ongoing teams created to assess the school’s progress over the next five years.
Such a process – both its inclusivity and its emphasis on measuring progress concurrently throughout its implementation – is new for BGA, Kesler said.
“It’s been a much more deliberate, much more public process,” he said. “I think it’s been really positive. We’ve had some great results.”
The plan is centered around three components, or pillars: Curriculum and Programming, Culture and Community, and Sustainability and Stewardship. Each of those pillars then comprises three goals.
FOR CURRICULUM AND PROGRAMMING , the strategic plan calls for “robust, timely, and innovative programming;” for offering “a comprehensive, intentional leadership framework;” and for equipping students with “critical cultural competencies and global perspectives.”
FOR CULTURE AND COMMUNITY , the plan encourages “support for student health and well-being,” as well as “character development and agency” both in and outside of the classroom, and improving support and communication for faculty, staff, administrators, parents, and other members of the BGA community.
FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND STEWARDSHIP , it aims to “amplify the reputation of our school and transmit a more evocative, authentic story of BGA;” to “attract, retain, and develop exceptional, mission-aligned teachers and mentors;” and to “create a culture of philanthropy.”
Those nine goals then include even greater specificity, calling for implementing programs designed to achieve the plan’s broader focus. Among them, Kesler said, are plans for increasing opportunities for science, math, engineering, and technology (STEM), adding out-ofclassroom experiences as core pieces of the educational process, and “taking a big swing at leadership,” integrating it more
explicitly into the BGA curriculum.
The K-12 leadership framework is among the biggest new programs envisioned in the new strategic plan, Kesler said.
“It’s the move from implicit to explicit,” he said. Forming leaders has always been central to BGA’s overall mission, but it has not been an overt part of the curriculum until now. “We want people to associate the BGA experience with leadership experience.”
For Board of Trustees Chair Colleen Hoke ’87, the plan’s focus on faculty is another key addition. At a time when teachers nationwide have expressed frustration at a lack of resources and support from their institutions, BGA will aim to “attract, excite, retain, and develop exceptional teachers,” Hoke said.
“In the past we talked in terms of curriculum, programming, and then maybe talked about training or other ways we can support teachers,” she said, “but in this strategic plan we’re specifically calling out attracting, retaining, exciting, and developing faculty. … What are we but a collection of people? The community we serve and our teachers, that’s who we are.”
“We want people to associate the BGA experience with leadership experience.”
-Head of School Will Kesler
Apart from the initiatives in the plan itself, the process by which success under the plan is measured also has changed.
The new strategic plan includes the creation of what the corporate world has begun calling OKR teams – short for objectives and key results. These teams, coordinated by Head of Upper School Josh Montgomery, are working to establish metrics to help determine the plan’s progress in real time.
That’s a change from a previous tendency to assess the success of strategic plans in the rear-view mirror, Montgomery said.
“A lot of times, people talk about how we want to think with the end goal in mind,” he said, but determining how to measure the goal’s successful achievement is often unclear. The OKR teams have been working to determine “if we do this well, this is what the result is going to be.”
That might be as simple as “an on-off switch,” the creation of a class or experience, or it might be a metric, such as a percentage of new offerings. The goal, Montgomery said, is to remain flexible and pragmatic, understanding that not everything in education can be reduced to a numerical goal.
“Each of the goals is malleable; we can pivot as we need to,” he said. “We’re not putting ourselves in a corner.”
The goal, Montgomery said, is a plan that is more transparent –not only in the crafting stage just completed, but in the implementation stage over the next five years.
That transparency is important, Kesler said, because, as the last five years have shown, the world needs more than ever the kind of leaders BGA produces. Career paths are in flux, and schools such as BGA need to produce students prepared to confront job markets and a society in which flexibility and adaptability are increasingly paramount. In the post-COVID world, students thus need to graduate with a balanced set of skills – in both academics and personal character.
“I think the biggest challenge is ensuring that education is effective and transferrable,” Kesler said. “The more predictable career paths are attracting fewer of our students than they were a few years ago.”
While the pandemic upended the world envisioned by the last five-year strategic plan, Kesler said the forward thinking required by creating such a plan helped BGA weather the volatility of those years.
“We’re doing a lot of really good things around promoting a curriculum that’s more future-ready,” Kesler said.
Under the previous plan, BGA also developed a ten-year business model, increased community involvement, and created a more intentional strategy for campus facilities, as well as fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging for students and faculty alike.
With a new plan in place and a future no one can predict, BGA remains insistent on leading and serving its community, Hoke said.
“It’s a fun, exciting time, but it’s a serious time,” she said. “It’s an awesome responsibility, but we want to keep pushing.”
Learn
more about the new strategic plan at battlegroundacademy.org/strategic-plan
Empowering Educators, Enriching Futures:
Fostering Excellence Through BGA's Teaching Center
In the vibrant halls of BGA, a profound belief resonates: that the journey toward enriching young minds begins with empowering those who guide them. This philosophy is at the heart of BGA’s newly created Teaching Center.
It was also this mindset that initially drew Dawson Gray ’02 back to his alma mater at the beginning of his career. Now 16 years later, he serves as the Dean of Faculty and is determined to inspire today’s scholars the way he was as a student.
“I always knew I’d come back to BGA,” said Gray. “I truly had a transformative educational experience here, and I want the same for current and future students. Nothing is ever complete when it comes to education, so we must continue to adapt and refine.”
Gray spent the first year in his new position gathering information and listening to the needs of different departments to strategize the most beneficial way to help the faculty. He conducted one-on-one meetings with each teacher and observed classroom instruction to focus the direction of the new center.
“I wanted to know what makes all the ordinary days at BGA seem extraordinary,” said Gray. “That’s what I spent most of this year doing – building relationships and a foundation of knowledge before any support and direction was provided.”
The Teaching Center, formed in Fall 2024, serves as the nucleus for on-campus professional development among the faculty, embodying a commitment to excellence in education. Through a comprehensive set of responsibilities and initiatives, the Center creates a dynamic environment that nurtures a culture of inquiry-based instruction to improve student learning outcomes.
“At its core, it’s about every one of our
“I wanted to know what makes all the ordinary days at bga seem extraordinary.”
teaching faculty taking steps to get better together,” said Gray. “We’re focusing on a collective teacher efficacy and on progress over perfection.”
The Teaching Center encompasses a set of initiatives that allow educators to think collaboratively about their teaching practices, emphasizing strengths and identifying areas for growth. In Spring 2024, the school established a teaching lab in the space that was previously designated as the Middle School common area. The Teaching Center provides a space for faculty to engage in critical reflection on their lessons. Other initiatives include instructional coaching and planning components, department meetings, and collaborative idea generation, all aimed at serving students.
We catalyze a culture of inquiry and excellence, ultimately enriching the educational experience for both educators and students alike.
“We hope to develop a shared language so that each child experiences a common thread in their education throughout their days and years at BGA,” said Gray. “We have cultivated a strong sense of community here, and we want to continue that theme by drawing connections from shared learning experiences.”
The value of the Teaching Center initiatives and resources can benefit teachers at any experience level through collaboration and constructive criticism. Experienced teacher and Upper School English Department Chair Leah Handelsman recently took advantage of the Teaching Center by participating in coaching lessons. She volunteered to video record one of her AP English Language classes for review. Afterward, she and Gray rewatched the lesson separately and took notes on the strengths and areas for growth.
“When I met with Dawson to discuss the notes each of us had taken, I found that we were almost exactly on the same page. He gave me a few ideas to help make certain parts of the lesson more efficient, and I have since implemented those ideas in similar lessons to positive results,” said Handelsman. “As a veteran teacher, I think it’s important to be willing to listen to feedback and to make changes when necessary; I am grateful to have Dawson’s support in that process, and I would imagine that the input he offers newer teachers is invaluable.”
Gray’s philosophy is that teachers can benefit from watching film much like football players do – watching yourself back can provide an eye-opening way to critique lesson plans and teaching styles. Undoubtedly, Gray’s dedication to the continued well-being and improvement of the BGA faculty is unwavering. His approach is extremely hands-on as he frequently sits in on classes and observes various departments. However, he is always encouraging, often leaving behind
generous notes of praise that are proudly displayed in teachers’ classrooms.
“The work that Dawson has done this year in the Teaching Center in terms of visiting teachers’ classrooms and offering suggestions for how to tweak or reimagine lessons has been thorough and helpful,” Handelsman said.
“As we continue to see a national trend of teachers leaving education, we are seeing a similar impact in Middle Tennessee. At BGA, we are committed to ensuring our faculty feel valued and supported, and to that end, we have established the Committee for Faculty Well-being,” Head of School Will Kesler said.
The committee is made up of six faculty representatives who meet monthly discussing ways to raise and maintain morale among teachers.
“We recognize the teachers’ hard work and dedication to their students,” said Gray. “But it’s important that we have regular conversations about morale so that each teacher shows their best self in the classroom.”
In addition, the Teaching Center will foster collaboration among faculty through the creation and monitoring of interdisciplinary teams. These five to six-member teams will engage in conversations and observations to enhance collective teacher efficacy and promote a collaborative approach to education. By organizing events on campus related to internal professional development, the Teaching Center will further amplify its role as a catalyst for growth and learning.
None of these initiatives would be possible without the generosity of BGA’s donors and help from BGA Fund. The funding provides
the faculty with resources they need to develop and hone their craft with the BGA student body in mind.
“Through annual donations to the BGA Fund, we are able to provide our faculty with opportunities to embrace continuous growth and innovation in their teaching practices,” said Jesse Underwood, Assistant Head of School for Advancement.
“By supporting initiatives like the Teaching Center’s establishment of an on-campus teaching lab and fostering collaboration among interdisciplinary teams, we catalyze a culture of inquiry and excellence, ultimately enriching the educational experience for both educators and students alike.”
Even in its formative years, the Teaching Center has proven valuable in fostering
an environment in which both students and teachers crave knowledge and seek improvement. The initiatives position BGA to continue to offer a competitive independent school education for years to come.
“By creating this shared language, we will be able to develop, attract, and retain excellent teachers,” said Gray. “BGA has always balanced tradition and innovation well, and the work we’re doing in the Teaching Center is a perfect example of that.”
The impact that the Teaching Center will ultimately have on faculty will create an environment for students that promotes the school’s mission “to ignite and nurture student curiosity, intellect, and character.”
The efforts also align with the newly
revised vision for the future to “empower bold and deep thinkers and prepare thoughtful and brave leaders” not only in our students, but also our faculty.
“The school I graduated from looks a lot different than the school that the Class of 2024 just graduated from, and their experience will differ from my daughter’s experience as part of the Class of 2037,” said Gray. “I am excited to continue investing in our educators, watching the school evolve through the lens of the Teaching Center, and creating a shared language unique to BGA students and faculty.”
To learn more about the Teaching Center and its initiatives, visit battlegroundacademy.org/teaching-center.
Over the years, 412 Main Street in Franklin, Tenn., has stood as a silent witness to the city's growth.
In the early days, the site housed the livery stables for the city. Later, the building served as the home to the Review Appeal, Williamson County’s weekly newspaper, for several years.
Now the historic building on Main Street is home to Stable Reserve Spirits, a distillery, cocktail bar, and coffee shop, owned by Beth Weatherman Goodwin ’98, and her husband, Cam Goodwin. A unique addition to Franklin’s bustling downtown, the coffee-to-cocktails concept adds charm to the vibrant, growing city while also working to maintain and celebrate the building’s storied history.
While in the process of buying the iconic building in 2021, Beth Goodwin and her husband were drawn to its history. From the beginning, the couple knew the upstairs of 412 Main Street would house her husband’s office, but the space downstairs was a blank canvas.
“We are born and raised in Franklin,” said Goodwin. “We were captivated by the
history of the building, and we wanted to share that with the community. We knew we wanted to create something in this space that was local and unique to Franklin, so we decided on a coffee-tococktails concept.”
Stable Reserve opened in June 2023. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the restaurant offers traditional coffee and seasonal drinks, along with tea and a small breakfast menu. After 4 p.m., Stable Reserve gives Franklin residents a place to unwind after a long day with seasonal cocktails, distinctive “bar bites,” and various craft beers on tap.
While the concept offers a fresh approach, Goodwin wanted to make sure the new business paid homage to the historic space it occupies.
“Our real estate agent, Charlie Warner, told us the building had been part of the old livery stables in downtown Franklin,” recalls Goodwin. “So, we built the bar around the six-foot stalls. We uncovered 100-year-old wood floors during the process. When we built the bottling room, we had to pull out some of the subfloor, so we repurposed that to create tasting boards.”
One of the many homes of the Review Appeal, the building also offered up a few
artifacts from its days as the newspaper office.
“We uncovered front pages of newspapers and letters,” said Goodwin. “Finding things like that just encouraged us and reinforced everything we were doing.”
Those front page finds, several of which are now framed and on display in Stable Reserve, also led to another BGA connection. L.H. “Bill” Armistead III ’69, comes from a long line of newspapermen and was the last member of his family to own the building, back in the 1980s.
“They were real newspapermen,” said Armistead, recalling his father, uncle, grandfather and great-grandfather, who all served as editors or publishers of the Review Appeal. “I came along as newspapers were going out of style, but back then, the newspaper was the focal point.”
Armistead likes to remember 412 Main when his father served as the editor, especially on those hot summer evenings when August election results began to roll in.
“My dad would hang up a sheet from our upstairs window to the building across the street,” he recalls. “I would go get the
Bill Armistead is the first of five generations not to be in the newspaper business, but he was thrilled when he learned another BGA graduate was bringing new life to the building that once housed the family business.
“It’s exciting to see this space now, and I’m proud of what they are doing,” said Armistead. “My great-grandfather bought the building in the late 1800s, and my great-grandfather, grandfather, father and uncle were all editors and publishers of the Review Appeal, and I think it was in the family 150 years. I worked there as a child for my father and uncle, doing odd jobs and running errands.”
After learning about Stable Reserve and meeting the Goodwins, Armistead donated a photo of his great-grandfather and his five sons. It’s proudly displayed at the front of the restaurant, alongside front pages of the Review Appeal and other memorabilia discovered during the renovation.
“The photo is of my great-grandfather, George H. Armistead Sr., and his five sons,” said Armistead. ”Two of them, beside himself, were editors and publishers of the Review Appeal,” he says.
Armistead’s grandfather, Leonard Bill Armistead Sr., also served as the editor, followed by his son, Leonard Bill Armistead Jr., Armistead’s father. The last Armistead to serve as an editor was Armistead’s great uncle, James H. Armistead.
“I was the last member of the family to hold the title on the building,” remembered Armistead. “Back in the 1980s, the buildings downtown weren’t in the best shape. Beth and her team have done a great job and really done wonders with the building. It’s hard for me to believe it’s the same place.”
In Armistead’s memory, 412 Main Street was dominated by a massive printing press, about six feet wide and located some five feet below the floor. The press brought the paper to life each week, and the Main Street location played a vital role in building a thriving, growing community. Armistead is proud of the way the Goodwins have preserved and honored the Review Appeal’s place in Franklin’s long history.
“They’ve really done a wonderful job bringing back the building,” he said.
While he’s proud of his family’s centurieslong investment in Franklin, Armistead is also grateful for their deep BGA roots. His great-grandfather, George H. Armistead, served on BGA’s first Board of Trustees, while Armistead, his brother, Robert H.F. “Bob” Armistead, his father, grandfather and uncle all graduated from BGA.
“My brother Bob also went to BGA,” Armistead said. “He was in the Class of 1971. My Uncle Hunter was the Class of 1942, my father, Leonard Bill Jr., was the Class of 1940, and my grandfather, Leonard Sr., was the Class of 1916.”
In recent years, Armistead himself has served in a variety of leadership roles as a member of BGA’s Board of Trustees from 1982-2023. In addition, several of Armistead’s great-uncles graduated from BGA in the early 1900s, while his brother, Robert H.F. Armistead, later returned to his alma mater as a teacher and a coach.
Last year, BGA named Armistead a life trustee, joining an elite group of longtime BGA supporters and graduates: Tom F. Cone, John B. Jewell III ’62, and Reese L. Smith III ’66.
BGA nurtured a love for community, giving back, and gratitude for teamwork and encouragement. I’m grateful for the challenges, rewards and, above all, supportive friendships. “ ”
election results, and he’d project them onto the sheet. The whole street was blocked off. It was a party.”
“There are still a few ink stains on the floor,” adds Goodwin. “Our name and our logo — the newsprint and the black and white horse — are a nod to the history of this building.”
Honoring the history of the location is important to Goodwin, but she’s also proud that Stable Reserve is cutting its own path in Franklin’s thriving downtown.
“We are the first distillery approved in the city limits since Prohibition,” said Goodwin. “We’ll also be joining the Tennessee Whiskey Trail.”
The Tennessee Whiskey Trail stretches across the entire state and includes 20-plus Tennessee distilleries. The trail gives visitors a taste of the history, tradition, and novelty of Tennessee whiskey, and Stable Reserve sits right at the center of the 830-milelong trail. It’s an opportunity to introduce Franklin to visitors while also investing in the city’s history and unique charm.
“Stable Reserve is an opportunity for us to share the history of these buildings with visitors and locals alike,” said Goodwin. “Downtown Franklin is unique and special, and we want to keep it that way.”
Stable Reserve has already garnered its share of attention, including the Heritage Foundation’s 2023 Preservation Award, highlighting the Goodwins’ attention to detail in conserving historic and architectural details of the commercial building while incorporating modern upgrades.
Since the distillery opened, Stable Reserve spirits have also received their share of awards, taking home top honors in the 2023 The South’s Best Spirits competition for their wheated bourbon, gin, and coffee cream liqueur.
“All of these awards bring attention to Franklin,” said Goodwin. “It’s just a blessing for us to be here and to be able to invest in the community.”
Bringing attention to Franklin and the entrepreneurs and businesses that keep the city thriving is something the Goodwins want to do more of. That’s why, when it came time to find a coffee distributor, they decided to look within the city limits.
“We knew that we wanted Narrow Gate Coffee to provide our coffee,” said Goodwin. “We love their ministry and the work they’re doing, so we knew they had to be involved on some level.”
Narrow Gate Coffee Co., a Franklin-based coffee roastery, is part of the Narrow Gate Foundation, a nonprofit focused on educating, inspiring, and empowering Christian discipleship. The foundation also helps develop “business discipleship platforms,” and Narrow Gate Coffee Co. is part of their stable of businesses.
In addition to serving Narrow Gate coffee, Stable Reserve also carries a few leather items from Narrow Gate Leather, which patrons can purchase at the restaurant. It’s the kind of community focus and cooperation that has always defined Franklin, Goodwin said, as well as her BGA experience.
“BGA nurtured a love for community, giving back, and gratitude for teamwork and encouragement,” she said. “I'm grateful for the challenges, rewards and, above all, supportive friendships.”
As Stable Reserve begins to make its own history at 412 Main Street, it’s that kind of culture she hopes Stable Reserve helps to honor, shape, and encourage in Franklin.
“We hope to continue to build a brand known for bringing the community together and serving others well,” she said. “Uniqueness on Main Street has always contributed to the charm and set our town apart. We are grateful to continue that legacy by creating an experience only available in our town.”
On Sunday, May 19, BGA held its 135th commencement, conferring degrees to 94 students in the Class of 2024. Erin Jones was awarded as the valedictorian, and Hays Craig was awarded as the salutatorian of the class.
Head of School Will Kesler began the event, encouraging the graduates on how to respond to life’s challenges beyond BGA.
“Class of 2024, you have, as well as any class I have seen in my 10 years at BGA, come through your time here in good stead,” Kesler said.
“You will invariably face challenges and difficulties. I want to encourage you to recognize the challenge, respond with peace, and rest, knowing you are part of a larger world.”
The Class of 2024 distinguished itself in numerous ways this past year, excelling in performing arts, sports, and academics.
“What we have learned from each other during our time here is that we cannot shrink away and hide from challenges.”
– ERIN JONES ‘24
As they move on, these 94 graduates will attend colleges and universities across 22 states. Collectively, they received more than $14 million in scholarship offers, and 95 percent of the class were accepted to at least one of their top three college choices. Also, 10 students will continue their athletic pursuits at the collegiate level.
Following Kesler’s words, Jones and Craig reflected on the past year and shared words of wisdom for their fellow classmates.
“This year has been, to put it lightly, phenomenal. We’ve come together as a class so often and in such truly heartwarming ways,” Craig said.
“What we have learned from each other during our time here is that we cannot shrink away and hide from challenges. We must show up for the world. We can make the change we want to see,” Jones said.
After the salutatorian and valedictorian speeches, awards were given to 21 students and three faculty and staff, and degrees were conferred. The Class of 2024 then heard from President of the BGA Alumni Association Jacqueline LaFont ’07.
“Being a member of the BGA community is much more than just a networking opportunity. We are here to support you,” LaFont said.
With tassels shifted and commencement officially complete, the graduates walked side by side across the quad, gathering around the flagpole for a final, heartfelt singing of the alma mater.
Once the students moved their tassels and completed commencement, they walked together across the quad, gathering at the flagpole for one last singing of the alma mater. As the song ended and graduation caps flew, the Class of 2024 and their families and friends celebrated the end of one chapter and beginning of another.
ERIN JONES
Edward Tyndall Stalcup ‘47 Valedictory Medal
HAYS CRAIG
William H. Smith ‘71 Salutatory Medal
ABBY MCLAY
Robin Leigh Altshuler Award
WILL EVANS
Helen and Ralph Brown ‘49 School Spirit Award
LEXI TOPPING
David A. Hernandez ‘49 Award for Courage
KIANA RAOUFINIAI
Katie Jeter ‘03 Award for Service
TAYLOR ARNOLD
BGA Alumni Association Bill Ross ‘72 Award
CLAIRE COCO
Durwood Sies ‘40 Leadership Award
HARRIS CLEVELAND
Paul Guffee ‘61 Memorial Award
JOHN PAYNE THOMAS
Pinkerton Watch - Best All-Around Student
AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE
JACKSON ARTRIP
HARRY BROWN
GRAYSON COLLINS
AVA GRADDY
SHEA HOLLIS
KAVIEN JONES
WILL LOCKE
QUINN LOHSE
MAC MAYBERRY
ELLA MCLAY
GRACE ROOK
VIRGINIA SUCH
OLIVIA WHITLEY
THE CLASS OF 2024 WILL ATTEND 55 COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN 22 STATES.
TEN SENIORS ARE CONTINUING THEIR ATHLETIC CAREERS AT THE COLLEGIATE LEVEL:
GRAYSON COLLINS, Wofford College, basketball
ERICA DELAUGHTER, Trevecca Nazarene, stunt
WILL EVANS, Long Island University, football
JACKSON FISHER, University of Washington-St. Louis, football
MADDIE HILL, Mercer University, soccer
KAVIEN JONES, Tennessee State University, basketball
KENNITH LOHMANN, Lipscomb University, baseball
LAUREL PHELPS, Samford University, track
JEREMIAH RHAMES, Johnson and Wales University, wrestling
JULIANNA SANTIAGO, University of Tennessee-Knoxville, volleyball
Late alumnus Gilliam O. Traughber, Jr. ‘41 was honored byhisson Bill Traughber in the Williamson Herald for his service in the U.S. Navy.
David Wood ‘54 married Marietta Burleigh on June 29, 2023, in the historic Franklin First United Methodist Church in downtown Franklin.
Steve George ‘56 and his wife Kaye were named the chairs for the 51st Annual Heritage Ball from the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County.
Lt. Col. John Grover Wilson ‘63 published his book “Perils of Flight: Stories from a Combat Pilot in Southeast Asia” in October.
Loy Hardcastle ‘66 was named Top Producer for 2022 at the Parks Realty office in Franklin in March. Then in May, Loy was named the 2022 Top Producer for all 15 Parks Realty offices. He is also the Top Producer for the entire Parks Realty
company and, according to America’s Best Real Estate Professionals, Loy is ranked among the top 1.5 percent of realtors in the United States.
Mark Rogers ’66 was one of the grand marshals in the annual Veterans Day Parade in downtown Franklin.
Don Denbo ‘67, on April 2, was celebrated as the namesake of the new Denbo Center for Humanities and the Arts on the University of Tennessee at Knoxville campus. Don is a former Vol football star and a 1971 graduate of UT Knoxville. Also, George Silvey ‘67, a fellow UT football player, was at the celebration to support Denbo on the special day!
Steve Robinson ’67 spoke to the BGA Middle School Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) group last fall. Steve is the Director
Emeritus at FCA for the greater Nashville and Middle Tennessee area.
Philip Martin ‘68 published “Tails from Tibet,” a leadership book for children told through the adventures of two Tibetan Terriers, Tashi and Sashi. In April, our third graders had a special virtual visit with Philip and his Tibetan Terrier, Tashi.
Andy Maloney ‘84 was named to the Tennessee Bar Association Real Estate Law Executive Committee representing Middle Tennessee last fall.
Barry Booker ‘85, a standout basketball player from the 1980s, was recognized as a top 1980s high school basketball player in The Tennessean.
Mike Keith ‘86 received the 2023 Tennessee Sportscaster of the Year Award at the 64th National Sports Media Association Awards Banquet on July 1.
Rondal Richardson ‘87, Senior Entertainment and Donor Relations Liaison for the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, was honored at the Musicians on Call “Anthems of Healing” 25th anniversary celebration on May 22. He received the Leadership in Music Golden Ukulele for his decade of support toward the organization.
Allen Roberts ‘88, managing shareholder at Baker Donelson Nashville, was appointed the Board President of the Tennessee chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth for 2024 in February.
Brent Bowman ‘93 joined the board of directors at the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County in January.
Bob Freeman ‘94 became the President and CEO of the Freeman Webb
Company after his father, Bill Freeman, retired.
Sara Schultenover Kubicki ‘94 completed the Senior Executive Fellows program at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government in May.
Andrew Peercy ‘94 started a new position as Technical Operations, Team Lead at PayIt. Andrew has been with PayIt for over two years.
Jeannie Bailey Carpenter ‘97 received the 2023 Women in Supply Chain award by Supply & Demand Chain Executive.
Eric Jackson ‘98 was named to the board of Friends of Franklin Parks. Currently, Eric is Vice President of Creative for Tractor Supply Co. and Petsense.
Margaret Peercy Wilson ‘99 completed her Certified Public Finance Officer Certification in February through the Government Finance Officers Association. Additionally, Margaret was selected as the next Comptroller for the City of Franklin and the 2nd Vice President for the Tennessee Government Finance Officers Association (TGFOA) Board.
Quin Evans Segall ‘00 was elected to one of five Metro
Council at-Large seats in Nashville.
Courtney Smith ‘00 was named one of the 2024 Best Lawyers in America.
Claire Givens Crunk ‘02, Founder and CEO of TRACE Femcare, won a NEXT Award for best Startup in Products, Services, and Retail in Nashville.
Harlin Hickerson ‘03 visited the Middle and Upper School students during Veterans Day week to speak on his experience in the United States Marine Corps, where he served for over four years.
Witt Parrish ‘03 started a new position as Senior Mechanical Engineer at SSOE Group in Brentwood.
Brittany Adkins Schaffer‘03 visited our Upper School students during Founders
Day to share her career history and experience as the Dean of the Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business at Belmont University.
Zach Bingham ‘05 and his business partner for A to Z Sports joined forces with Google Certified Publishing Partner, STN Video, to grow their advertising revenue and online viewership.
Katie Adgent ‘06 was promoted to Vice President of Marketing at Quore in February. Katie has been with Quore since 2018.
Elizabeth Pope Goodwin ’06 became Senior Managing Director and Market Leader for Tennessee at CBRE in March.
Jennifer Pagliara ‘06 was named to the 2024 Nashville Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list. She also was nominated for
the Franklin Tomorrow Emerging Leader Awards for her work with Leadership Middle Tennessee and the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee Women’s Fund.
Jacqueline LaFont ‘07 started a new position as Broker and Vice President at Assured Partners. Jacqueline currently serves on the BGA alumni advisory board.
Natalie Aaron ‘08 completed the Young Leaders Council training program, which is an 11week intensive program.
Julianne Isaacs Cantey ‘08 was promoted to partner at Carr, Riggs, and Ingram in February. Julianne started at CRI eight years ago and serves as the President of the BGA alumni board.
Ted Benge ‘09, a Site Designer with Swift Company Landscape Architecture, helped in the design of the new Climate Pledge Arena in downtown Seattle.
Will Doran ‘09 became the Estimator/Project Manager at Mid TN Constructors, Inc. in Columbia, Tenn.
Bridget Winstead ‘09 graduated in May with a Master’s in International Public Policy from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies at their
WILDCAT Roll Call
campus in Bologna, Italy. She recently accepted a position as the Chief Communications Officer for Public Diplomacy at the British Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Brett Bauer ‘11 joined Sherrard, Roe, Voigt, and Harbison firm as an associate in its commercial litigation group.
Meredith Braun ‘11 graduated with her MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business with concentrations in Economics, Behavioral Science, and General Management.
Mary Hannah Winstead ‘12, Sydney Eddy ‘12, and Cara Ledman ‘12, visited our Middle School students in March to talk about friendship and how theirs blossomed in Middle School at BGA.
Lindsey Landrum ‘12 was nominated in the fifth class of Sports Business Journal’s New Voices Under 30, which represents the rising generation of sports business leaders, dealmakers, and influencers across the industry.
Kristian Lewis Bertalot ‘13 became the Director of the East Tennessee region of the Girl Scout Council of the
Southern Appalachians. She also married Griffin Bertalot in April.
Will Cross ‘13 and his wife Mary Michael were announced as the Heritage Ball Late Party chairs by The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County. Will also was selected for the 2024-25 Leadership Franklin class.
Meaghan Gray ‘13 completed the Young Leaders Council’s training program for young professionals in the Nashville community.
Taylor Journigan ‘13, a 2023 Titans cheerleader, visited the BGA cheerleaders during the 2023 Homecoming game.
Tucker Latture ‘13 became the Director of Franchise Sales and Development at Wyndham Hotels and Resorts.
Jessie Conklin Louveture‘13, Executive Director and
Founder of Mental Health Initiative, spoke to Upper Schoolers in October on the importance of mental health and how music can be used as a healing tool. Also, she and Lauren Conklin Johnson ‘10 of The Mental Health Initiative hosted their inaugural Healing Through Songs benefit concert at the Sondra Morris and Robert N. Moore, Jr. ‘52 Center for Arts and Entrepreneurship.
Caroline Abbott ‘14 graduated with her J.D. from Notre Dame Law School.
Sarah Butler ‘14 started a new position as a Transportation Engineer for the city of High Point, N.C.
Matthew Reed ‘14 started a new position as Retail Media Manager at Macarta.
Rachel Brown ‘16 became Associate Program Manager in the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Department at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital.
Samantha McCaleb‘16 accepted a judicial externship with the Honorable Jeffrey S. Bivins and became a clerk for a federal appellate judge, The Honorable Bobby E. Shepherd of the Eighth Circuit. Additionally, her article, “Paws Off My Profile: Protecting the Persona in the
Modern Digital Age,” was published in the Marquette Intellectual Property and Innovation Law Review.
Webb Bankemper ‘17, the Marketing Coordinator at Studio Tenn Theatre Company in Franklin, visited the Upper School campus in November to perform with Leah Handelsman and Jenny Wallace in a dramatic reading of “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead.”
Ally Dunavant ‘17 visited the Upper School Chamber Choir in January to offer her vocal expertise to students. Ally obtained her master’s degree in Voice and Opera from the Royal Academy of Music in London.
Matthew Keith ‘17 is the Writers Assistant for Season 6 of “The Neighborhood” on CBS and was also featured in an episode in Season 5 as a character named Stew.
Madison Ambrose ’18 will be attending Northeastern
University Law School this fall.
Clay Franklin ‘18 spoke about his company, Arid Delivery Products, to Upper School students in the Entrepreneurial Leadership program.
Drew Martin ‘18 graduated from Vanderbilt UniversityOwen Graduate School of Management with a Master’s in Accounting and received one of the Vanderbilt Business Dean’s Awards for Academic Excellence.
Maggie McConnell ‘18 visited the Glen Echo campus in February to speak at the 100 Days to Graduation event for the Class of 2024.
Holland Mooney ‘18 graduated with her master’s in Business Administration from Cumberland University and became a Human Resources Generalist in the
university’s human resources department.
Ashton Patton ‘18 became a Project Coordinator for the Master of Public Health Program at Vanderbilt University.
Trace Adams ‘19 was the featured spotlight for Garney Construction in July 2023 for his internship with the company. Upon completing his internship last summer, he became a full-time Field Engineer with Garney.
Annie Arvizu ‘19 completed a marathon, graduated from West Point with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, finished the Engineer Basic Officer Leader Course, reported to Fort Bliss to join 16th Brigade Engineer Battalion, and completed her first National Training Center rotation on battalion staff as an Assistant S4. Additionally, she married Tyler Williams.
Sophia Buskirk ‘19 started school last fall at University of Bristol in the United
Kingdom, where she is pursuing a Contemporary Identities MSc in their School of Sociology, Politics, and International Studies.
Fletcher Daniel ‘19 became the General Assistant at Wasserman Music.
Jack Burns Egan ‘19 is a law student at Charleston School of Law. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from The University of South Carolina with a B.A. in Political Science and a minor in Criminal Justice.
Connor Meulemans‘19 graduated from The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Cybersecurity. He also recently obtained his CompTIA Security+ Certification.
Ridley Randolph ‘19 started school last fall at Columbia University, where she is pursuing an MFA in Writing for Film and Television.
Tiy Reed ‘19 was recognized for his outstanding service to the community as a studentathlete at Georgetown University, earning the People for Others Award. He was also promoted to Campus
Recruitment Program Manager at Boulevard.
Natalie Watson ‘19 started school last fall at University of NebraskaLincoln’s Sociology PhD program, where she also has a graduate teaching assistantship.
Jake Brown ‘20 accepted an externship with Modern Woodmen of America.
Nick Semptimphelter ‘20 graduated from Bucknell University in May, earning a degree in Business Analytics. While at Bucknell, he was the quarterback and team captain for the Bucknell Bisons. He plans to pursue an MBA at John Carroll University, where he will continue his passion for football and complete his eligibility as a player.
Sarah May ‘21 accepted a Digital Marketing Internship with Universal Music Group Nashville. She studies at Auburn University Harbert College of Business and is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration and Marketing.
Butch Samide ‘21 was accepted to Florida State University’s graduate program for sport management.
Trace Alexander ‘22, the CEO of TracesOats, spoke with BGA sophomores about nutrition and body image.
Annie Conrady ‘22 joined The Climate Museum team in Fall 2023 as a Social Media/ PR Intern at the Manhattan Office.
Graci Semptimphelter‘22 traveled to Spain in September 2023 for two weeks to complete a TravelLearning Course, which included exploring the country’s history, art, culture,
language, and food, as well as walking a portion of El Camino de Santiago (Saint James’ Way).
Grayson Douglas ‘23 was named the season’s first Mustang of the Month, a teammate-voted award dedicated to recognizing those who demonstrate SMU Equestrian values.
Taylon Miller ‘23 visited the Glen Echo Campus in February to speak at the 100 Days to Graduation event for the Class of 2024.
Chloe Wright ‘23 had a book signing event at Landmark Booksellers for the third book in her young adult fantasy series, “Alpi: Head in the Clouds.”
Our Class Notes section has alumni news that we were notified about from May 2023 to May 2024. To submit Class Notes, email us at alumni@mybga.org.
One of our alumni, Ward Dillard ’89, has a special connection to this year’s Super Bowl LVIII; he helped construct the 9,500-ton retractable turf field at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nev.
Dillard is President of Industrial Door Contractors, Inc. (IDC), which has manufactured and installed hangar doors for more than three decades. This year was actually the company’s second time taking part in manufacturing for a Super Bowl. In 2014, IDC fabricated and installed the pivoting doors for the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minn., where Super Bowl LII was held in 2018. Because of the relationships formed in that experience, IDC received the opportunity to construct the retractable turf field for Super Bowl LVIII.
The retractable turf field at Allegiant Stadium is one of two in existence in the NFL. It is a 4-feet-deep tray supported by 540 wheels on 13 parallel rails, and it houses a natural grass field, with irrigation and drainage systems. When the field is not in use, it
Pictured above is the retractable turf field at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nev., where Super Bowl LVIII was held. Industrial Door Contractors, Inc., led by Ward Dillard ‘89, constructed the field.
can be rolled away to reveal a concrete floor, which makes the stadium a multi-use facility.
Dillard said it felt surreal to see his company’s work displayed on a global stage.
“This was the second time that I have been able to see our work being showcased at the Super Bowl, and it was just as exciting as the first time. I felt a lot of pride for all the hard work our dedicated employees put into making this happen,” Dillard said.
Steve ‘79 and Mary Lee Bartlett welcomed their first grandchild, Waylon McCampbell Page, on October 11, 2023. Steve and Mary Lee’s daughter, Ansley Page, is the Associate Director of Admissions for BGA’s Lower School. She and her husband, Tyler, reside in Brentwood, Tenn.
David Bailey ‘05 and his wife, Kinsley, welcomed Grant Michael Bailey on August 14, 2023.
Elizabeth Waynick Pike ‘06 and her husband, Eric, welcomed Anne
Louise Pike on July 19, 2023. Anne is the granddaughter of the late Roger Waynick ‘79
Sydney McCarthy Brannon ‘09 and Zach Brannon ‘08 welcomed James McCarthy Brannon on September 19, 2023.
Daniel Parker ‘09 and his wife, Juliann, welcomed Easton Joseph Parker on October 27, 2023. Daniel is currently the President-Elect on the BGA alumni board.
Joe Moon ‘10 and his wife, Kelsey, welcomed Parker Robert Moon on
February 13, 2024, at 6:24 a.m. His grandparents are Kathy and Eddie Moon ‘75
Charlie Snider ‘12 and wife Sarah Snider welcomed Benjamin Daniel Snider on September 13, 2023. Benjamin is the grandson of Middle School and Upper School Choral Director Anne Snider.
Emma Walker Kilgore‘13 and husband Kyle welcomed Mary Helen Kilgore on June 12, 2023, at 6:49 p.m. She was 6 pounds, 7 ounces and 19 inches long.
To submit birth news and receive a BGA onesie, email us at alumni@mybga.org.
It was April 29, 1945, when approximately 32,000 prisoners in the Dachau concentration camp walked free after 12 years of imprisonment in a Holocaust camp.
This liberation happened because of the efforts of 42nd and 45th Infantry Divisions and the 20th Armored Division of the US Army, and among the many soldiers present that day was Jimmy Gentry, from Franklin, Tenn. He was one of 3,500 men in Williamson County who were deployed during World War II.
Seventy-nine years later, on April 29, 2024, he and his other Williamson County comrades were honored in a special statue unveiling of the “Lost Heroes” Memorial in front of hundreds on Main Street in Franklin. Gentry, a former biology teacher and football coach at BGA in the 1960s, made an impact on
many beyond the World War II as well. At the unveiling, many spoke of Gentry’s legacy – his words of wisdom, funny quips, and kind heart. Those speakers included Franklin Mayor Ken Moore; Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson; Alderman Brandy Blanton; Leadership Franklin team members Stacey Downs, Ondrea Johnson, Carrie Drury, and Lance Jordan; statue sculptor Scott Wise; six-time Grammy award-winning singer and friend of Gentry, Amy Grant; and Jimmy’s sons, Allen and Scott Gentry.
Jimmy Gentry died almost 77 years after the Dachau liberation, on April 21, 2022. He was a staple in the Franklin community, owning Gentry’s Farm (which his son, Allen, continues running today), and was a teacher and coach for almost 40 years.
Leon J. DeBrohun 1944
Glenn M. Eddington, Jr. 1949
Harry K. Weisiger 1958
James V. Hunt, Sr. 1959
Jerry A. Ross 1964
Brown Kinnard, Jr. 1951
Alan I. Kirshner 1953
Lewis Daniel Scott, III 1959
Dr. Alva Jefferson “Jeff”
MD 1961
1965
1979
1957
1958
Our In Memoriam section reflects losses to the BGA community we were notified about from May 1, 2023, to May 1, 2024. To share information with us regarding the passing of an alumni or former faculty member, email alumni@mybga.org.
I am thrilled to introduce myself as your new Director of Alumni Relations. It is an honor to serve in this role, and I am excited to connect with each of you.
We have an exciting year planned, and I encourage you to join us on campus and around town for various events, including our:
OCTOBER 9-12
October 9: Legacy Breakfast (for alumni parents and grandparents and their current BGA students)
October 10: Blue & Gold Society Luncheon (for alumni who’ve celebrated a 50th reunion)
October 11: Alumni Watch Party, BGA v. Franklin Road Academy football game with halftime recognition of our returning Homecoming court, the 2024 Homecoming court, and the following State Championship teams: 2014 Boys Basketball team and Cheer Team, 2014 Boys Soccer and 2014 Girls Soccer* October 12: Reunion parties for classes ending in 4s and 9s
Register now for Homecoming & Reunion Weekend at battlegroundacademy.org/homecoming
*Due to the uncertainty of our opponent’s ability to compete on our original dates (October 25), we were forced to move our Homecoming & Reunion Weekend to the week of October 7, which coincides with Yom Kippur. Despite our best efforts, we were also unable to get our new opponent to move the game to a different day that week. We appreciate and respect the importance of this holy day and sincerely apologize for this unavoidable scheduling conflict. We will, as is our practice, seek to avoid this whenever possible in the future.
YOUNG ALUMNI HOLIDAY PARTY: DECEMBER 16
It’s the perfect opportunity for our 2009-2024 graduates to catch up with old friends, make new ones, and celebrate the spirit of the season at Stable Reserve Distillery in downtown Franklin.
ALUMNI CONNECTION EVENTS (THROUGHOUT THE YEAR)
From lunch and learns to happy hours, these events provide opportunities to hear more about what’s happening at the Academy, to reconnect with old friends, and to create new connections with other BGA alumni.
BGA GOLF CLASSIC: SUMMER 2025
This year’s Golf Classic raised over $70,000 in gross revenue for the BGA Alumni Association Financial Aid Fund, which provides need-based financial assistance to children of BGA alumni. Keep practicing your swing and stay tuned for more information about this year’s date, course, and sponsorship and playing opportunities.
Throughout the year, you can also stay connected with us and your fellow alumni online through our BGA Alumni Association LinkedIn group. It’s a fantastic platform to share updates, seek advice, and strengthen professional ties.
I look forward to seeing you at these events and hearing your stories. Together, we can continue to build a strong and vibrant alumni community.
Go Wildcats!
Claudia Stetter Director of Alumni Relations
2024-2025
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE BOARD
President: Julianne Isaacs Cantey ‘08
Immediate Past President: Jacqueline LaFont ‘07
President Elect: Daniel Parker ‘09
Members:
Brett Bauer ‘11
Kathryne Anderson Coonce ‘00
Gilmore Conners ‘11
Will Cross ‘13
Stevie Giorno ‘18
Eric McElroy ‘00
Michael McClellan ‘99
Courtney Smith ‘00
Allison Weatherman ‘07
Ex-Officio Members: Kunu Kaushal ‘02
Sterling Smith ‘84
Join us for our 2024 Homecoming and Reunion Weekend, October 9-12!
Get ready for a celebration filled with laughter, camaraderie, and Wildcat spirit! Our schedule is packed with events designed for alumni of all ages and reunion parties for classes ending in 4s and 9s. Events include:
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9
Legacy Breakfast, 7:15 a.m.
JEWELL HALL OF FAME ROOM
For alumni and their children/grandchildren who are currently enrolled at BGA
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10
Blue & Gold Luncheon, 11 a.m.
CHERRY SPORTS CENTER
For alumni who have celebrated a 50th reunion
Scan the QR code to learn more and register.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11
Alumni Watch Party, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
CHERRY SPORTS CENTER
BGA v. Franklin Road Academy, 7 p.m.
GUFFEE-BROWN STADIUM
With halftime recognition of our returning Homecoming court, the 2024 Homecoming court, and the following State Championship teams: 2014 Boys Basketball team and Cheer Team, 2014 Boys Soccer and 2014 Girls Soccer
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12
Reunion parties for classes ending in 4s & 9s
For 135 years, BGA has been a beacon of educational excellence in Williamson County and the greater Nashville area, delivering an enriching and comprehensive experience to students from pre-K through 12th grade. Our unwavering commitment to meeting each student where they are—both academically and personally—nurtures a vibrant community of challenge, support, acceptance, and warmth.
But we need your help to keep this legacy alive and thriving. The BGA Fund is our cornerstone annual fundraising effort, vital for upholding our high standards of education.
Every donation to the BGA Fund, no matter the size, makes a powerful impact. Your support fuels innovative classroom projects, enriches extracurricular activities, and attracts top-tier faculty, all of which enhance the educational experience at BGA. By giving to the BGA Fund, you’re directly contributing to the resources, programs, and opportunities that make a difference in our students' lives.
Support the BGA Fund today and help us continue our tradition of excellence!
