Randolph-Macon Academy 2017 Winter-Spring Sabre

Online Edition

2 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Inside This Issue

Campus News

Southland Industries Conducting Randolph-Macon Academy Campus Energy Upgrade....................................................... 3

Students Hear from Former NASA Chief Scientist.................. 3

Start Counting: Randolph-Macon Academy Honored in Multiple Venues...................................................................... 4

Five R-MA Students Named to District Chorus....................... 4

Alumni & Development

Homecoming 2016 Memories................................................... 24 Kiley Williams '04 Honored as Distinguished Young Alumnus of the Year.............................................................. 25

From the Class of 1949 to the Class of 2016, Alumni and Special Guests Return.......................................................... 26

Students Strive to Be a "City on a Hill" During Kelsey's Big Give................................................................................... 5

Class Notes............................................................................... 27

How the Garden Grows College Credit..................................... 5

Former R-MA Teacher and War Hero Samuel Umstot Honored at Homecoming...................................................... 31

Bonds of Friendship Strengthened at Homecoming................. 6 RADM John Stufflebeem '70 Elected Chairman....................... 8 A Fairytale at R-MA................................................................... 9 R-MA Students Renew the International Club....................... 10 Honor Society Inductions......................................................... 10 New Students, New Coach, No Problem................................. 10

Students Commemorate Global Impact of 9/11 Terrorist Attacks....................................................................11

R-MA Hosts Second Annual RYLA for Middle School Students......................................................................11 Parents' Association Corner..................................................... 12 For the Love of Chess............................................................... 13 Lily Grossman '21: Athlete, Leader, Humanitarian............... 13 Dongeun "Amy" Go Named Corps Commander...................... 14 Xiangwen Guo: College Bound and Patent Pending.............. 14 International Club President Has Found His Way at R-MA................................................................... 15 R-MA Middle School's Summer Camp..................................... 15

Alumni Profile: Samir Suleiman '93........................................ 30

Tributes..................................................................................... 32 In Memorium............................................................................ 32

The Society of 1892: The Foundation of the Future............... 33

Class of 1970 Reaches Out to Class of 2020............................ 34

Athletics

Yellow Jackets Roll to Patriot Conference Title...................... 35 Alex Ndongo-Seh '17 Named Player of the Year..................... 36 Middle School and Varsity Golf Players Learn Together....... 36 Fall Sports Awards................................................................... 37 Ben Schoonover '17: R-MA's Own “Running Man”................. 39 Additional Football Honors...................................................... 39 Varsity Girls' Volleyball Earns DAC Runner-Up Honors....... 40 Athletic Honors......................................................................... 40

Online Edition: At the request of our parents, some students names and/or images have been removed from this issue prior to its online publication.

Faculty & Staff

Honoring the Best of the Best: Annual Staff and Faculty Awards...................................................................... 16 Getting to Know You: Commandant Col Frank Link............. 18 Staff & Faculty Notes............................................................... 18

The Special 125th Anniversary Section begins on page 19.

Special 125th Anniversary Section

Randolph-Macon Academy: Founded in the College-Prep Tradition by the United Methodist Church......................... 19

R-MA's 125th Anniversary: A Year-Long Celebration............ 22

About the Cover

2017 is the year of Randolph-Macon Academy's 125th Anniversary. R-MA was built for the purpose of providing a prestigious college-prep education and a spiritual foundation through the United Methodist Church. In 1917, 100 years ago, the military program was added, making R-MA into the school of college-prep and leadership education that it is today.

Homecoming coverage begins on page 6.

You and your family are invited to celebrate the history, heritage, and hope of Randolph-Macon Academy. Mark your calendar for the 125th Anniversary Gala on April 8, 2017, and Founder’s Weekend April 28-30, 2017!

Randolph-Macon Academy admits persons of any race, gender, color, religion, nationality, and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. R-MA does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

A Message from the President

Ladies and Gentlemen -- few occasions in the life of a school like ours drive such powerful memories as an anniversary. As R-MA begins the run-up to its 125th Anniversary celebrations, I ask you to pause for a moment and remember what the Academy has meant to you and to those you love. For 125 years, young people have learned and grown here, so that they could take on the challenges of the world and succeed! And what worlds they have been prepared for!

Our earliest classes graduated less than 30 years after the cataclysm of the Civil War, taking their places in a world that would soon see our R-MA President Brig Gen David Wesley, USAF, country engaged in the SpanishRetired, stands with Charlie Richardson '53 American war. Our graduates during the Friday Night Welcome Back Dinner at took their places in defense of the Homecoming 2016.

Republic as World War I began, and they strove with all Americans to pull us out of the ravages of the Great Depression. They fought with gallantry and distinction in World War II and Korea and Vietnam. They helped hasten the dawning of the computer age, the cure of myriad diseases, and the conquest of space. Today they stand watch in distant lands and work for peace around the globe. They still come to The Hill for the same reasons: to learn and grow, so they can succeed in life!

Several articles in this issue will provide you with more information about the many ways you can participate in the celebration of our 125th Anniversary. I hope you will take advantage of these opportunities to renew friendships with your classmates and see all that is new and exciting about R-MA today. We have a terrific legacy and we're working hard every day to advance the cause of those who founded us and those who have supported us over the years. On behalf of the entire team, I say thank you to all who have made this remarkable journey possible!

The Sabre The Magazine of Randolph-Macon Academy Affiliated with the United Methodist Church WINTER/SPRING 2017 Volume 96  Number 1

Published by the Office of Public Relations Editor Celeste M. Brooks P’12,’21 Staff Copy Editors Cooper Bourdon '11 Kittie Callaghan Abell P’13 Clare M. Dame Amy M. Harriman Jonni Mahr

Photography Misti Walters

The Sabre is published twice a year for alumni/ae, parents, students, and friends of Randolph-Macon Academy 200 Academy Dr. Front Royal, VA 22630 (540) 636-5200 Fax (540) 636-5419

www.rma.edu

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sabre@rma.edu

On Facebook: Facebook.com/Randolph.Macon.Academy.VA On Twitter: @RandolphMaconA On YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/RandolphMaconAcademy On LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/randolph-macon-academy On Pinterest: pinterest.com/randolphmacon/ On Instagram: instagram.com/randolphmaconacademy/

Randolph-Macon Academy Board of Trustees

Most sincerely,

RADM John D. Stufflebeem '70 Chairman

David C. Wesley Brigadier General, USAF, Retired President

Randolph-Macon Academy was founded in 1892 under the auspices of the United Methodist Church.

Help us celebrate our 125th Anniversary!

Share your #RandomacFacts with @RandolphMaconA on Twitter.

Mr. Henry D. Light ’58 Vice Chairman Mr. Eric D. Anderson '88 Secretary Mr. Rodney Deane, Jr., P’95 Treasurer Mr. Harry G. Austin III ’75 Ms. Donna J. Bogart P’03, ’07 Mr. Eric D. Carlson ’73 Mr. Glenn Carrington P’08 Ms. Lucy Williams Hooper Mr. Conrad E. Koneczny ’51 Mrs. Pamela McInnis Maj Gen David Puster, USA, Retired ’75 Mr. John D. Simar ’68 Ex-Officio Members Dr. Susan Gawalt P'14, '16, '20 Ms. Heather Grossman P’16, ’18, ’21 Ms. H. Scarlett Kibler ’89 Rev. John Peters, Representing Bishop Sharma Lewis Rev. Larry Thompson

President

Brig Gen David C. Wesley, USAF, Retired

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Students Hear from Former NASA Chief Scientist

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21 Director of Public Relations On Wednesday, January 11, 2017, Randolph-Macon Academy students were treated to a presentation by Dr. Ellen Stofan, former Chief Scientist at NASA. Stofan’s presentation touched a variety of topics, displaying the depth and breadth of NASA’s programs and the importance of the organization. She shared with the students that in addition to exploring other worlds, NASA’s programs provide information that allow scientists to better understand Earth as well.

Stofan touched on the evidence of life found on other planets, such as water and amino acids, but also talked about the lack of any other evidence of life. “What we’ve been finding with our Curiosity rover are little fragments of organic molecules,” she explained. “What did they once add up to?

Did they add up to life? We’re not sure. We’re going to keep looking.”

Upon explaining her background studying volcanoes on other planets as well as on Earth, she admitted to her own “bias that it’s going to take humans, on the surface of Mars, breaking up a lot of rocks, because it’s not going to be one piece of evidence that

convinces us that there was life on Mars.

It’s going to be lots of pieces of evidence.”

Stofan pointed out that the students gathered would be the ones to do it, calling them the “Mars generation,” because they are the right age to be astronauts in the late 2030s, when NASA hopes to begin sending people to Mars.

Stofan spoke of the challenges of keeping people alive and healthy in space, noting that recent findings have shown that what is needed in space is similar to living a healthy lifestyle on Earth—90 minutes of exercise each day, and a low-salt, nutritionally balanced diet.

Stofan also shared the coming challenges the Earth faces. A graphic display of the overall temperature of the globe from the 1800s to 2014 and a photo of a large crack in the ice shelves of Western Antarctica were sobering reminders that global warming is a real and dangerous trend. Another digital image showed the world’s rain storms over the last year, reflecting the deluge on Texas and Louisiana as they received ten years’ worth of rain in three days. At NASA, these problems are noticed and addressed, Stofan explained. For example, California farmers, See Stofan, page 4

Southland Industries Conducting Randolph-Macon Academy Campus Energy Upgrade This past October, Southland Energy, a division of Southland Industries, was awarded a series of upgrades and replacements for Randolph-Macon Academy. The Academy facilities span 300,000 square feet on a 135-acre campus.

As a project awarded under VirginiaSAVES, a new program designed to reduce the cost of qualified energy efficiency projects and provide low- or no-cost long term financing, the project is completely self-funding and aims to reduce the school’s carbon footprint by 35 percent.

The project includes the redesign and replacement of inefficient systems and equipment across the campus’ classrooms, dorms, offices, worship spaces, meeting rooms, and athletic facilities. Southland’s scope of work features lighting, controls, boilers, chillers, pumps, motors, and HVAC equipment. The upgrades will greatly benefit the students and faculty due to the improvement of the lighting, temperature and humidity control, and indoor air quality.

Southland Energy will provide energy auditing, development, and financing, as well as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design services prior to the project’s construction phase. Completing these services beforehand allows Southland to develop a bundled energy and facility renewal program that will replace over $1.5 million in end-of-life equipment.

By teaming with R-MA’s finance, facilities, and operations staff, Southland Energy can offer a financial and technical solution to address the school’s needs, as well as find savings and subsidies to fully fund the project.

The project’s saving goals are as follows: • Campus carbon reduction: 35% • Electricity savings: 1,086,149 kWh/year • Gas savings: 56,000 therms/year • Water/sewer savings: 589,000 gallons/year • VirginiaSAVES subsidiary value: $1,000,000 • Cost savings over project life: $5,500,000 The design phase began in October 2016, and overall project completion is anticipated for October 2017.

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Campus News

Start Counting: Randolph-Macon Academy Honored in Multiple Venues

F

On Tuesday, November 8, 2016, R-MA Chorus Director Michael DeMato took seven students to the District Chorus competitions. Five of the students earned a spot in the District Chorus: Emily Silverio ’17, Helen Peng ’17, Gillian Rydholm ’18, Jin Wang ’18, and Stephen Okonkwo ’17. In addition, Zainab Salami ’17 was selected as an alternate.

At the time of printing, the five selectees were scheduled to perform in the District XIV Chorus Concert on February 11, 2017, at Millbrook High School in Winchester, VA.

Stephen Okonkwo '17

Helen Peng '17

Y NT OU

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21, Director of Public Relations Randolph-Macon Academy students, parents, alumni, staff, and faculty have much to be proud of after the announcements of several awards this past fall.

For the fourth consecutive year, R-MA was named a “Top School” by Virginia Living Magazine. Over the years, the magazine's editorial staff has recognized the Academy for its High Flight Program, the Flight Program, and the Band. This year, the Academy was recognized for its successful venture into the world of cybersecurity competitions, under the Air Force Association’s CyberPatriot contest where the team earned first place in the gold tier.

R-MA also successfully captured the “Best Private School in Warren County” title, awarded by the readers of the Northern Virginia Daily through a reader nomination and voting process. R-MA has held this title every year the awards have • L W A A Y been doled out since 2013. (R-MA R RE RO N NT C RO also won the award in 2012, when the contest was entitled “Best in the Valley Awards.”)

This year, R-MA adds another badge to the list of honors, as it RT earned the “Best for Families” Award HE RN LY VIRGINIA DAI from Washington Family Magazine in not one, but two categories: Private School and Overnight Camp.

This contest was also based on reader nomination and voting.

Five R-MA Students Named to District Chorus

NO

Emily Silverio '17

Jin Wang '18

Gillian Rydholm '18

Stofan, continued from page 3 who grow 30% of the nation’s produce, have endured the equivalent of a 15-year drought and, as a result, have relied on the aquifers below ground to obtain water for irrigation. However, over-drawing on the aquifers has resulted in the valley floor sinking. NASA has helped the farmers find ways to reduce their water usage by 35%.

Besides demonstrating the functional diversity of NASA itself, Stofan issued a plea for the students to engage in their world as scientists and mathematicians, emphasizing that the strength of NASA and organizations like it comes from “different people from different backgrounds coming together to solve complex problems.” Her visit to Randolph-Macon Academy coincided with the release of Hidden Figures, a movie about three African-American women (Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan) working at NASA and serving as the behind-the-scenes brains for launching astronaut John Glenn into space. During her presentation, Stofan showed a photo of Johnson (now 98 years old) and described her tenacity.

“She was an amazing mathematician,” she said. Johnson went to work for NASA at the Langley research center—and, Stofan reminded her audience, this was the early 1960’s. “Jim Crowe was in effect, segregation was in effect,” she said. “They didn’t even let the AfricanAmerican women work in the same room as the white women.” In this time before computers, Stofan explained, “These women would serve as a giant human computer.”

Johnson was working on the trajectory calculations necessary 4 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

to propel someone into space, get them into orbit, and return them safely. In spite of her intelligence, she was told she “didn’t belong” at meetings. Johnson, however, refused to back down and insisted that not only did she belong, but they couldn’t accomplish their goals without her. In the end, she was vindicated. As Stofan shared with the students, “John Glenn, when he took his first flight, said, ‘Has that girl from Langley checked these numbers?’ So that’s how valuable she was.”

“But it’s a lesson for all of us,” Stofan said, “because if anybody ever looks at you and says ‘I don’t think you belong here’ or you’re thinking about yourself and saying, ‘Should I sit at the table? Am I the one that can answer this question? Maybe I can’t do this.’ I want you to think about Katherine Johnson and say, ‘I’ve got Katherine Johnson somewhere inside of me, and I’m going to sit at the table. I’m going to speak up, because I know what I’m doing. I can contribute. They need me.’”

Stofan’s visit was a hit; the students were full of questions and many stayed afterwards to speak with her further.

“Dr. Stofan’s visit was extremely interesting,” said Jacob Gehly ’20. “I love the work that she has done and would like to learn more about it.”

“I thought that her visit was a unique opportunity for us to learn about the different things NASA is currently researching, and what they hope to accomplish in the future,” Noelle Kramer ’19 noted.

Students Strive to Be a "City on a Hill" During Kelsey's Big Give

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21, Director of Public Relations, and Joshua Orndorff, R-MA Chaplain At R-MA, serving others is an intrinsic part of the student experience. There is no minimum requirement for community service because the Academy’s philosophy is that students should help others because it is part of building character. As they are taught through one of the Air Force JROTC core values, “Service before Self,” students are to serve others not to mark off a box on their college resumés, but because it is the right thing to do.

Throughout 2016, there were several community service projects headed up by Chaplain Joshua Orndorff. The students went to Washington, DC, with Teens Opposing Poverty, and gave food to the homeless. They joined with Front Royal United Methodist Church to package food for the hungry through Stop Hunger Now. They served as ushers and assistants for local events. They held a food and coat drive for the local Salvation Army. But when asked which community service event in 2016 really stood out in his mind, Orndorff quickly named one that is close to his heart: Kelsey’s Big Give. The community service organization and its annual days of service are named after Orndorff’s sister, Kelsey, who, while a senior in high school, died in a car accident.

“These community service days were originally Kelsey’s idea to bring churches, schools, and organizations together to serve those in need,” said Orndorff.

Kelsey’s Big Give for 2016 took place at the end of the first week of school, on Saturday, September 10th. While many students took advantage of the chance to sleep in, 18 R-MA students instead chose to wake up even before the sun rose over the mountains. They

traveled to Riverton United Methodist Church in the northern part of Front Royal to join others in various service projects throughout the day.

“Our students shone bright, as one group helped redo a garden in memory of Kelsey at Riverton Church as well as other landscaping work. Another group did yard work for a man who had recently become a paraplegic,” said Orndorff.

“Kelsey’s Big Give was an inspiring project that I enjoyed being a part of,” said Zainab Salami ’17, who hails from Texas. “I loved how the work we were doing was actually making a visible change in someone’s life.” Salami said she particularly enjoyed meeting a woman who was retired military; the time at which this retiree served was when women were still fighting for respect as military personnel.

“She told us stories about how she had to stand up for herself and it was amazing to meet one of the women who blazed the trail for our equality,” said Salami. “I will never forget such an amazing experience.”

R-MA literally sits on a hill that can be seen from most of the town of Front Royal, so during the school’s weekly chapel services, Orndorff has challenged and encouraged the student body, faculty, and staff to serve others and live up to the ideal of being a true “city on a hill.” During Kelsey’s Big Give, the students did just that.

“Several of the students said they had never worked so hard in their lives, but they were filled with joy, and even energy, for being able to help others,” Orndorff stated. “They truly shone bright like a city on a hill as they lived into Kelsey’s vision of living life with passion for God and for others.”

How the Garden Grows College Credit

by Cooper Bourdon ’11, Communications Assistant The development of an on-campus community garden over this past summer allowed for the introduction of a new course: Introduction to Plant Science and Technology (IPST). This is a dual-enrolled course providing college credit through Lord Fairfax Community College and hands-on experience in the garden combined with classroom work. The course is taught by Science Department Chairman Kara Lewallen, who oversees the community garden.

The garden not only provides an opportunity for college credit, but also an opportunity to learn about the process of how we get food from the ground to our stomachs. It is a long and laboring process of which most Americans are not aware. IPST students are involved in every step from preparing the soil to harvesting the crops.

A key component of this garden project is managing waste.

Sustainability is heavily emphasized in the classroom and in the garden. Students are taught the importance of sustainability and how to apply it through certain methods such as converting waste into

In 1933, the Randolph-Macon Academy at Bedford closed and merged with the RandolphMacon Academy in Front Royal, with John Campbell Boggs serving as the principal.

Help us celebrate our 125th Anniversary!

Share your #RandomacFacts with @RandolphMaconA on Twitter.

compost to enrich the soil of the garden. No chemicals are used in this process making everything the students do organic and healthy for the environment.

Food the students grow themselves is even used in the school dining hall. They have partnered with Sage Dining Services, utilizing the waste from the dining hall to create compost for the soil. The garden has been a beneficial addition to R-MA’s curriculum, student life, and the environment.

Sarah Vaughan '18 and Naomi Eke-Spiff '18 check out the fresh lettuce during a field trip the AP Environmental Science and Plant Science & Technology students took to Sinclair Farms in Mt. Jackson. There they learned about sustainable farming methods such as water reclamation and solar power. The Sinclair family also taught the students about their hydroponic growing systems.

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Campus News

Bonds of Friendship Strengthened at Homecoming

by Cooper Bourdon ’11, Communications Assistant, and Christine Meyer, Director of Development and Alumni Programs Homecoming is a special time of the year for a high school community, especially for a boarding school that is nearly 125 years old. It is a time when people come together in a friendly atmosphere to celebrate the past, present, and future of the community in which they take much pride. The 2016 Homecoming weekend at RandolphMacon Academy provided its students, alumni, faculty, and staff with such an atmosphere. In total, more than 255 alumni and guests returned to “The Hill” for the festivities.

Beginning Friday morning, alumni from across the country made their way to the R-MA campus to register for the Homecoming weekend and to walk around the grounds they once called home.

Later that evening, they ventured to the North Warren Fire Hall for a delicious welcome back dinner provided by Apple House Catering (run by R-MA alumni George McIntyre ’69, Katie (McIntyre) Tewell ’97 and Mac McIntyre ’07) of Linden, VA. During the dinner, the class of 1988 was recognized for having the highest participation rate in annual fund giving with an impressive 40.6%. Eric Anderson ’88 and Mike Starling ’88 accepted the prize for the top slot on behalf of their class. Accepting participation certificates were RADM John Stufflebeem, USN, Retired, for the Class of 1970’s second place at 38.9%; Chip Humphrey for the Class of 1966’s third place at 24.0%; and John Simar for the Class of 1968’s fourth place at 23.2%. The class competition resulted in R-MA’s highest-ever participation in annual fund giving in the 2015-2016 academic year, with an overall participation of 9.9%. This represents a

20% increase over the previous year.

The dinner guests also enjoyed the musical talents of Chorus Director Michael DeMato and the quartet of female cadets who call themselves “The Stingers.”

On Saturday morning at the Holiday Inn, Brig Gen David C. Wesley, USAF, Retired, hosted the 50th Reunion Class Breakfast for the Class of 1966, an annual R-MA tradition for the golden anniversary class. Following the breakfast was another tradition at R-MA in Melton Memorial Gymnasium, where the corps of cadets honored those R-MA alumni who gave their lives in service to their country.

Each year, a memorial flag that was flown over the R-MA campus is presented to a member of the R-MA family or a representative.

This year, two such flags were presented to the families of deceased members of the R-MA community—two men who had brought honor to their country through their actions. The first flag was given to the family of Major George Mitchell Tederick, Sr., United States Army, Retired, who was a member of R-MA’s Class of 1950. After his years of service in the Army, he returned to R-MA and served as the commandant of cadets and coached the football and baseball teams.

Mrs. Maria Tederick and members of the Tederick family were on hand to accept the flag.

The second honoree was an American soldier who displayed the utmost bravery in the line of duty. Captain Samuel Gilmore Umstot was a chemistry teacher at R-MA from 1963-66. He left R-MA to volunteer in the US Army and became a member of the medical

Homecoming's Royalty

Above, R-MA flight students talk with alumni about the flight program and one of the Academy's Cessna 172 airplanes. Below, the armed drill team performs an exhibition during halftime at the football game.

The Homecoming Queen and King were Nataly Perez ’17 (left) and Lucas Costa ’17. Other members of the Homecoming Court were Daggm Mekonnen ’20, Olachi Agba ’20, Arinze Adigwe ’19, Joseany Mbakassy ’19, Erik Wagner ’18, Liwen Zhang ’18, Austin Davis ’17, and Onimitein Georgewill ’17.

6 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

This year the classes had a good-natured, spirited competition to see which class could have the highest giving rate in the annual fund.

Mike Starling '88 (left) and Eric Anderson '88 (right) accept the winning "trophy" on behalf of their class, which claimed first place with a 40.6% participation rate. service corps. On September 12, 1968, Captain Umstot lost his life in a fierce battle while providing medical attention to his wounded comrades despite the advancing line of the Viet Cong. His daughter, Ann Bussey, was on campus to accept the flag.

After they honored the fallen, the R-MA corps of cadets prepared for the annual Homecoming Parade. It was a smashing success and a magnificent display of the hard work and discipline with which the R-MA community is so familiar.

With the conclusion of the Homecoming parade came the Alumni Association Luncheon in Turner Hall. The alumni who were present heard an inspiring speech from Cadet Major Lucas Costa ’17, who described his family’s travels to the United States from Brazil when he was four years old. His family was looking for a better life and Costa has found that, even though he struggled to learn English at first. He saluted the alumni whose donations to the school provided scholarships and made it possible for him to attend R-MA while on his way to earning an appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy.

“Standing before you now is the product of four years of relentless studying, hundreds of community service hours, and my best effort to ensure your support was not in vain,” he said to the alumni. “I salute you all for blessing me with the opportunity to grow here on The Hill.”

Several alumni were recognized at the luncheon. Gen Walt Boomer ’56, USMC, Retired, received the Distinguished Alumnus Award, George Mathias ’54 received the Byron C. Gayle ’50 Dedicated Service Award, and Kiley Williams ’04 received the Young Alumni Award. Karen Moxie received the Staff Recognition Award for her nearly four decades of service to the Academy. In addition, the Alumni Association elected officers for 2016-2017: Scarlett (Praml) Kibler ‘89 as president, Bo Snitchler ‘06 as vice president, and Xandi (Xereas-Gonzales) Middleton ‘05 as secretary/treasurer.

After the luncheon, the R-MA community took a self-guided

The students salute as the band plays the National Anthem during the Homecoming Parade.

Ann Bussey, foreground, accepts the memorial flag in honor of her father, Captain Samuel Gilmore Umstot, who was a chemistry teacher at R-MA from 1963 to 1966.

R-MA alumni from the Class of 1966 prove that they still remember how to march during the Homecoming Parade. tour of the campus, visiting classroom buildings, heading up to dorm rooms in Sonner-Payne and Turner Hall, and stopping in at Boggs Chapel. They then gathered at Riddick Field for the most-beloved part of Homecoming: the football game. The Yellow Jackets did not disappoint their fans; they thoroughly handled Massanutten Military Academy 58-6. Nataly Perez ’17 and Lucas Costa ’17 were crowned Homecoming Queen and King, respectively, during halftime.

After the game, many alumni gathered at the Blue Ridge Shadows Resort for the Alumni Celebration, while others attended the Class of 1966 50th reunion dinner or the Class of 1956 60th reunion dinner.

One can only understand how special a Homecoming weekend is at R-MA by attending. Generations of alumni gather in a place that helped mold them into the people they are today. They share their experiences on The Hill with each other and seek to learn something new about their fellow alumni and about their alma mater. They share a bond that cannot be undone and reminisce on a time when they were cadets of Randolph-Macon Academy.

See more Homecoming photos and stories, along with the list of alumni who returned to campus, on pages 23-25.

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Campus News

RADM John Stufflebeem '70 Elected Chairman

Silek, Mathias Retire from Board after 66 Years of Combined Service

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21, Director of Public Relations At its October 2016 meeting, the Randolph-Macon Academy Board of Trustees recognized two dedicated outgoing trustees and welcomed a new chairman.

Outgoing were Chairman Joseph F. Silek, Jr. ’77 and former Chair George D. Mathias ’54, whose combined years of service to R-MA equalled 66 years. These two gentlemen were instrumental in changing the board governance, and in 2009, term limits for all board members were introduced. The current members were grandfathered for one term, which drew to a close for both Mathias and Silek this past October.

Mathias served on the board continuously since 1974, including the longest tenure (17 years) in school history as Chairman.

He has been credited with providing stable leadership during some of the Academy’s most tumultuous R-MA President Brig Gen David C. Wesley, USAF, Retired (on left) and Byron Gayle '50 times—in 1975, the Academy’s (on right) present the Byron C. Gayle '50 Dedicated Service Award to George Mathias enrollment had fallen below 100 students '54, who has served on the R-MA Board of and real estate was Trustees since 1974. being sold to raise operating funds. (R-MA was not alone in this; military schools across the country were closing down at that time.) During Mathias’ tenure, the school’s enrollment rose as high as 433 students. He also helped in establishing new facilities, including the girls’ dorm, the Middle School, a new maintenance facility, and an addition to Crow Hall.

Silek joined the Academy’s board in 1992, following his father, Joseph F. Silek Sr., a long-time Front Royal resident, business owner, and R-MA trustee. Both Sileks have been acknowledged as ardent supporters of the Academy. The younger Silek, a member of Lawson & Silek, P.L.C., in Front Royal, became the R-MA Board of Trustees Chairman in November of 2007, just after the Academy began a capital campaign, chaired

by Mathias, that eventually resulted in the establishment of Stan Fulton Hall.

With a wealth of experience on nonprofit boards, Silek was able to take some best practices and make adjustments to the way in which the R-MA Board Joseph Silek '77, who served as of Trustees was functioning. He the Board of Trustees Chairman focused on establishing term from 2007-2016, presents Thomas limits for board members and Minchew '16 with the Joseph Silek, changing the structure of the Sr., Scholarship. board meetings, which had been day-long marathons of meetings for both committees and the full board. The new format meant that the committee meetings were held ahead of the full board meetings, allowing for more in-depth conversations and strategic planning. He was also instrumental in guiding the Academy through key leadership 8 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

changes: the retirement of R-MA’s president, Maj Gen Henry M. Hobgood, USAF, Retired; the transitions of leadership both under Maj Gen Maury H. Forsyth, USAF, Retired, and Jonathan Ezell; and the final change to the current president, Brig Gen David C. Wesley, USAF, Retired.

Silek was offered the title of Chairman Emeritus during the meeting, which he said he was honored to accept. And as a 1977 graduate of the school and the father of a current senior, he plans to continue to support his alma mater in whatever way he can.

Also during the meeting of October 14th, the R-MA Board of Trustees elected John “Boomer” Stufflebeem as the new Chairman of the Board. Stufflebeem is a 1970 graduate of the Academy and has been a trustee since 2011.

Away from the school, Stufflebeem is an independent consultant and sole proprietor of the NJS Group LLC, a strategic and crisis communications consulting firm in Alexandria, VA, established after he retired from the U.S. Navy in 2008 as an admiral. He is a life member of the National Football League Players Association, having played football for the Detroit Lions in the late 1970s.

He was a career aircraft carrier fighter pilot in the U.S. Navy, decorated combat veteran and commander of troops in every military conflict from RADM John Stufflebeem 1993 through 2007. He flew combat '70, USN, Retired, joined sorties from the decks of U.S. aircraft the R-MA Board of Trustees carriers around the globe more than in 2011 and was elected eleven times over eight years, flying Chairman of the Board this in both the F-14 Tomcat and F/A-18 past October.

Hornet. From his pro bono work with warriors and veterans of traumatic brain injury and retired professional football players on the ravages of concussions, he espouses the wounded warrior ethos: “the only real disability in life is a bad attitude.”

Stufflebeem graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1975 with a B.S. in Operations Analysis and received professional training from the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Center for International Studies, University of California, Berkeley Haas School of Business, National Defense University, U.S. Army War College, NATO National Defense College, and Center for Creative Leadership.

As Chairman, Stufflebeem said he plans to focus on “securing the financial underpinning for our school’s future and helping create the brand of our school that assures sustained optimal enrollment.”

“As an expectation, our school must prepare for an uncertain future—for our children’s children,” he observed. “Within this, a goal I urge the school to pursue is to develop the mind, body, and spirit of our students from new levels of knowledge, leadership, and character. It is my hope our school becomes a beacon of leadership for our country.”

The Board of Trustees voluntarily serves the Academy by providing requisite governance in the core responsibilities of mission, strategy, policy, and planning of one of the nation’s top private, independent military college-prep schools. According to their bylaws, Trustees serve out their limited terms then must step down for at least a year before being considered to rejoin the Board.

by Victoria Voellm ‘18 In November 2016, Randolph-Macon Academy was taken back to the land of fairy godmothers and dreams as it put on its production of Cinderella. The classic tale was brought to life through the faces of R-MA’s cadets. Cinderella is a classic fairytale in which Cinderella plans to attend Prince Christopher’s Ball with the help of her fairy godmother. Meanwhile, the Prince aspires to find his true love. R-MA cadets took to the stage and brought their audience on a journey to one magical night.

The drama department faced a number of difficulties throughout due to schedule changes in the performance dates and an illness that hit the day before opening night—the “playgue,” as it was dubbed by Alisah Cervantes ’FS17.

The role of Cinderella was played by the ever-enchanting Gillian Rydholm ’18. At first, she didn’t expect to get the part, but eventually she grew into the role, taking the time to put her best effort into it. Gillian has acting experience in theatre as she previously performed in Godspell in the Fall of 2015 as well as other productions at her previous school. She is very diligent in her work; she spent many hours preparing and perfecting the role. She described the overall experience: “The best production I’ve ever been in despite the stress, the workload that piled up, and the ‘playgue.’”

Through all the strain and stress, Gillian was able to look to Margot Cramer ’14 for support.

Margot was there from the beginning, helping with everything, and helping to fill out the cast as the baker. Her role in the play changed at the last minute when one of the stepsisters came down with the “playgue” opening night, and Margot filled in.

Mrs. Kim Cramer P’12, ’14, the director of the production, says the biggest challenge she faced was holding the show together. “I’ve See Cinderella, page 12 9 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Campus News

R-MA Students Renew the International Club

By Henry Liu ‘19 R-MA offers all the opportunities that cadets need to develop character, knowledge, and leadership. For those seeking to know the world, a great way to start would be learning about the fourteen other cultures (R-MA cadets come from up to fifteen different countries) that are also represented. With this in mind, R-MA’s International Club was born.

The club is led by President Stephen Okonkwo, Vice President Edwin Ikhinmwin, Secretary Anastacia Chineme, Treasurer Nimi Georgewill, and faculty sponsor James Taafel '05, whose experience in teaching ESL (English as a Second Language) has made him wellacquainted with R-MA's international students. The Club aims to be the ideal place for cultural interactions between the diverse cultures of the community. The officers hope that with cultural understanding, the R-MA community will be drawn closer together. In the days since the Club’s founding, it has already proved that it is dedicated to its goal with events such as its first annual Hispanic Day of the Dead celebration and “Rant Night,” the club’s first open-mic event. Other events are currently being planned, such as the International Day Celebration, a successful event put on by the National Honor Society for the last two years. Okonkwo promises that it will be an even bigger success this school year, with plans to make it “even more fun and conducive for everyone.”

The club not only has grand visions for its role in the school, but also within the greater international community. Okonkwo hopes to focus the club on being a positive influence abroad. Plans for fundraisers that will give school supplies to children across the globe are currently the club’s top priority.

Without a doubt, the student-run International Club is a symbol of what cadets at R-MA can create, a symbol of how a cadet can learn and develop. “We are looking forward to an amazing year,” says Okonkwo. “We thank everyone for their amazing support and we are definitely off to a good start!”

New Students, New Coach, No Problem CyberPatriot Team Earns Place in Gold Tier for Second Consecutive Year

Congratulations to the R-MA CyberPatriot team for qualifying for the All-Service Division gold tier state round of competition! This marks the Academy’s second consecutive year of competition, and the second year in which they qualified for state competition—and this was accomplished by a new team of different students! The team’s standing after the initial round was ninth among 109 multi-service teams; they went on to compete in the state tound on January 14th.

The team is under the direction of MSgt Stephen Pederson P'13, '15, USAF, Retired, who is also new to the CyberPatriot competitions.

“I am very proud of how well this team did, given the limited training they had,” said Pederson. “They overcame challenges in computer access, experience, and a brand-new coach. I think their performance was outstanding.”

The cloak rooms in Boggs Chapel were transformed into archives for display during R-MA's Centennial Celebration in 1992. #RandomacFacts 10 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Honor Society Inductions During the Fall Family Day Scholarship and Honor Society Induction on November 6, 2016, six students were inducted into the National Junior Honor Society and 13 students were inducted into the National Honor Society. In a separate ceremony on December 1, 2016, seven students were inducted into the National English Honor Society.

National Junior Honor Society Matthew Neil Foreman ‘22 Autumn Thomas ‘21 Katy Babineau ‘20 Yinan Chen ‘20 Christian Pierce ‘20 Christopher A. Pierce ‘20

National Honor Society Parker Overstreet ‘17 Morgan Sauter ‘17 Lillian “Lila” Walker ‘17 HoTin Cheng ‘18 Mary Elizabeth “Molly” Evans ‘18 Yongxi “Lucy” Liu ‘18 Khalila Karefa-Kargbo ‘19 Jacob Karen ‘19 Noelle Kramer ‘19 Hong Li “Henry” Liu ‘19 Nathan Stewart ‘19 Liana Trupiano ‘19 Yuyang “Mike” Wang ‘19 National English Honor Society Jeffrey Dinackus ‘17 Khalila Karefa-Kargbo ‘19 Hong Li “Henry” Liu ‘19 Liana Trupiano ‘19 Jacob Karen ‘19 Carolyn Laourdakis ‘19 Noelle Kramer ‘19

National Honor Society President Dennis Ponn '17 swears in the new members of both the NHS and the NJHS.

Students Commemorate Global Impact of 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

Students laid white roses at the base of the flag pole, with each white rose representing a country initially reporting losses from the terrorist attacks of 9/11.

Some of the R-MA Upper School cadets might not have been in uniform yet, but they didn’t let that stop them from paying their respects to those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks that took place on September 11, 2001.

R-MA Commandant Col Frank Link P'17, USAF, Retired, read a list of countries that initially reported losses resulting from the attacks.

With each country he read off, a cadet responded with the number of citizens deceased, then proceeded to lay a white rose at the base of the flag pole.

The countries called were Ireland (four deceased), Britain (100 deceased), China (three deceased), Japan (two deceased), Pakistan (one deceased), Bangladesh (50 deceased), Australia (three deceased), Indonesia (one deceased), Switzerland (four deceased), South Africa (one deceased), Chile (three deceased), Peru (one deceased), El Salvador (one deceased), Dominican Republic (one deceased), Portugal (five deceased), Canada (three deceased), and the United States (2,694 deceased).

R-MA Hosts Second Annual RYLA for Middle School Students

by Michael Williams H’17 P’20 The world’s second annual Middle School Rotary Youth Leadership Activity (RYLA) began with a nice morning walk, bringing attention to Juvenile Diabetes. Students learned that an artificial pancreas has been developed, in hopes of helping those afflicted with type one diabetes.

After the walk and some delicious sandwiches from Chickfil-A, Interactors headed over to Rockland Park, where they broke up into different teams for a fun nine holes of Frisbee/ Disc Golf, followed by some fun on the park’s playground, where one of our Interactors met an even smaller future Interactor, and quickly became a “Big Brother.”

After a short drive back to Randolph-Macon Academy, Beth Iden and her husband spoke to the Interactors about the Liberian Orphanage Educational Project (LOEP), and their tireless efforts to bring literacy and secondary education to war-torn and stricken areas of Liberia.

Mrs. Iden spoke of how Rotarians, as well as Interactors from the Interact Clubs of Warren County Middle School and Randolph-Macon Academy Middle School, have contributed hundreds of books, as well as classroom supplies, to help the children in the orphanages served by Mrs. Iden and her husband, and cultivate their hopes of literacy and secondary education.

After taking a break for playing basketball and four square, and some delicious treats prepared and purchased by The Rotary Club of Warren County, Mr. Bob Meadows presented his ever-popular “True Colors” personality workshop. During this session, Interactors learned where their specific character traits traditionally fall, within (and apart) of societal norms. Students learned how to love and celebrate who they are, how to use their traits to affect the world for the better, and how to appreciate and celebrate those who are blessed with different personality types. The day ended with a delicious pizza and chicken tender dinner buffet.

A total of 36 middle school students participated in this year’s Middle School RYLA. Participating clubs were the Interact Club of Randolph-Macon Academy Middle School (sponsored by the Rotary Club of Warren County, Virginia) and The Interact Club at Warren County Middle School (sponsored

by The Rotary Club of Front Royal, Virginia). Both clubs are part of Area One of Rotary District 7570.

On April 1, 1950, Bing Crosby was named an honorary colonel of the R-MA cadet corps.

Share your #RandomacFacts with @RandolphMaconA on Twitter!

Students of both R-MA Middle School and Warren County Middle School attended the second annual Middle School Rotary Youth Leadership Activity conference.

11 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Student Highlights

Cinderella, continued from page 9 never experienced a time when so many people were out because of a sickness sweeping the cast.” Another challenge presented with this particular production was the many scene changes, unlike previous productions such as Once On This Island and Godspell which took place in generally the same setting. Despite the many setbacks, the play brought forth great results. “The play was well done and everything went well despite the sicknesses of the cast. The acting was clean,” Ryan Latham ’18 remarked.

Cramer once again did a fabulous job in casting the play. In perfect contradiction to Rydholm's sweet performance was the non-typical, caring yet almost condescending fairy godmother, played wonderfully

by Noelle Kramer ’19.

Brian Oh ’20 as the prince's manservant nearly stole the show with his comedic performance.

The drama department fought through many

challenges—the sickness that swept over the cast, the date push back, conflicting schedules—yet the cast was able to come together and present a wonderful production. The department had the help of many students who stepped up and lent a hand. The stage crew did an amazing job with the many transitions as the production had many scene changes. Praise to Mr. Michael DeMato for the music, Mrs. Michelle Orndorff for the choreography, Ms. Susan Sanford P’12, ’15 and the art department for the set design, Mr. Brandon Sloan for technical directing, and Cramer for directing. Kudos to all who contributed to the success of the production!

Parents’ Association Corner I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our parent volunteers. This includes those who donate time to those who donate money to those who donate items. You are all equally valuable. Without you, we would not exist.

I want to highlight one parent this time: Amy Minchew. Her son, Thomas, is a senior. I have been honored to know her since our children started together when they were in sixth grade. She has contributed time and resources.

Her family has been integrally supportive of this effort, too. She has been the driving force the last two years for our new uniform room. She has organized this room into a store-like appearance. The Parents’ Association would not have this resource without her. Thank you, Amy. We appreciate all you have done.

Due to our fundraising in the past year, we were able to fund four grants this year totaling $3,ooo. While these grants are awarded to faculty, they benefit the students. This money is in addition to the other programs we help fund. The grants are as follows: CMSgt Mary Gamache: projector Mr. Derrick Leasure: camera equipment Mrs. Dani Clingerman: volleyball uniforms Mrs. Dani Clingerman: middle school science equipment Additionally, we have raised some funds for the drama department.

As we move forward, we are seeking volunteers for our various programs.

Our work benefits the children of Randolph-Macon Academy. Please consider joining us. We look forward to welcoming our parents in a positive, welcoming atmosphere.

Susan Gawalt R-MA Parents' Association President sgawalt@pediatric-assoc.com 12 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Thomas Minchew '17 and his mom, Amy, after the Middle School Class Night in the spring of 2013.

For the Love of Chess

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21, Director of Public Relations Haorun “Bernie” Luan ’21 goes about his day as most middle school students do: attending classes—some of which he finds more interesting than others—and chatting with friends. He is straightforward with his answers: he has been at R-MA since seventh grade, he is taking Algebra II, he learns better from the teachers in class than he does from the book, he likes to hang out in the dorms on the weekends, and he talks to his family back home in China every day. Oh, and he made it to the final three competitors in the school round of last year’s National Geographic Bee, even though last year was the first time Luan ever studied U.S. geography.

That fact and the fact that he is at least two years ahead of most of his peers in math are the first hints you get that this young man is something special.

According to R-MA Middle School Teacher Chris Peter, Luan has an amazing memory, and it serves him well not only in geography, but as a hobby. “Bernie is extremely interested in military history. He can quote statistics from many wars and recite specific details of the many battles he has studied in his personal time,” Peter explained. “He is also a basketball and soccer fan. Just ask him how many points Magic Johnson or Michael Jordan scored in a specific game and he has the correct answer for you. Also, if by some chance you need to know a fact about any major soccer game in the history of the sport, just ask Bernie. The last bit of statistical evidence that Bernie is fascinated by is the history of air plane crashes and disasters.

He knows every flight that ever failed and why.”

In spite of his love of learning and his varied interests, it is when you bring up chess that Luan’s face lights up. It turns out that three years ago, this exceptional young man was ranked #21 in Southeast China in his age group—an accomplishment that is even more impressive, as Peter pointed out, due to China’s large population.

Luan started playing chess when he was four years old, and at the age of five he had a professional coach. One year, Luan said, “I made number six in my region, number ten in my state. Some players were four years older.”

“He and his father travel by plane to find good tournaments and competition within China,” expounded Peter.

Luan participates in R-MA's chess club, and Peter, who heads the program, has gotten to know Luan’s talents very well through this venue. “He beats me constantly,” Peter said. “He has a running record with me of 300 wins and 50 losses. He is a tough opponent. He varies his opening style, his middle game is solid and his end game is impeccably clean and efficient. He has beaten me blindfolded calling his moves out verbally, (I could see the board, he could not). He has beaten 10 of us at the same time and he has beaten every adult and peer I have ever seen him play.”

Luan’s recollection of his wins varies a little from Peter’s—he claims to have beaten Peter 150 times and lost 50 times. He also recalled playing five people at once and beating them all, and playing five at once another time and winning only three, while tying another game and losing the last. But whether he is being humble and understating his victories or Peter has inadvertently inflated the numbers, Luan remains impressive. As Peter stated, “There is no question Bernie excels at this game.”

Congratulations to Bernie!

Just before we went to print we learned that Bernie was the winner of this year's school-level National Geographic Bee! Bernie will now go on to sit for the state-level exam in an attempt to qualify for Nationals.

Lily Grossman '21: Athlete , Leader, Humanitarian

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21, Director of Public Relations Lily Grossman ’21 followed her two siblings, Ashley ’16 and Michael ’18, to R-MA, arriving as a sixth grader. And while she might be at R-MA for the college-prep work, she quickly became an athletic stand-out in volleyball and basketball.

Grossman’s passion is basketball, and whenever a court is open, she can be found practicing: dribbling, shooting, rebounding, whatever she can think of to work on. “She is a very quick guard on the basketball team,” observed Bill Curl ’66, who is Grossman’s eighth grade English teacher and an experienced basketball coach. “She is a very good volleyball player with a dynamite overhand serve.”

Indeed, Grossman’s overhand serve in volleyball this past fall earned her the MVP title for the team and an intimidating reputation; in on-campus scrimmages, boys have been known to abandon the court rather than face her serve.

Yet Grossman is about more than just athletics. She has a quick, infectious laugh that has brought joy to both her friends and teachers.

“Lily is a very intelligent, hard-working young lady. She has a unique personality and sense of humor,” said Curl. “Lily seems always cheerful and a real pleasure to have in class.”

That cheerfulness comes from being well-grounded in who she is and a natural inclination towards helping others, which is realized through her work as the president of the R-MA Middle School Interact Club. When asked what she enjoys about the Interact Club, her response considers all facets, proving that with this student, when she is part of something, she is “all in,” as R-MA Chaplain Josh Orndorff tends to say.

“We get to help people,” she said. “It makes me feel better about myself. I get to be friends with good people.

And we get our lunch early on Thursdays.”

“Lily has been an absolute joy to work with,” said Interact sponsor and Director of Student Life Michael Williams H’17, P’20. “Her energy and dedication to Interact leaves a standard for others to follow, for years to come. The kindness of Miss Lily’s heart, coupled with her ability to organize others, has helped make this year’s Middle School Interact Club run very smoothly.

Specifically, Lily organized all 34 members of our group to sign up to help with Middle School basketball concessions this season, with all proceeds going to Interact. Thanks to her efforts, the club has raised over $600 this season, alone, to go towards efforts such as Stop Hunger Now, Able Forces, Operation Christmas Hope, The Salvation Army, and many other local, regional and international humanitarian efforts. Miss Lily is an absolute blessing to us all.”

13 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Campus News

Dongeun "Amy" Go Named Corps Commander

by Cooper Bourdon '11, Communications Assistant Amy Go ’17 has made quite a name for herself here on “The Hill” since her arrival in the fall of 2012 for the eighth grade. Her hard work and relentless effort have molded her into an impressive cadet and young woman. She has made the President’s List numerous times, commanded the drill team, helped lead the 2016 girls’ varsity soccer team to a conference championship victory, and this past fall she became the first international student to earn the position of Corps Commander.

It was a challenging transition for Go when she first attended R-MA. Go is from South Korea and was far from having a decent grasp of the English language. “I found myself laughing and smiling a lot because I could not understand what people were saying to me,” said Go. “I just pretended like I knew what was going on.”

The language barrier is often an obstacle for international students coming to study in the U.S. for the first time, but the cultural shock weighs in as well. “I wasn’t used to people saying ‘hi’ to each other all the time,” said Go. “And when people said hi to me I would bow to them because that’s what we do in Korea,” said Go. The shift in language and culture was tough at first, but Go found comfort in the friends she made. “Lauren Anderson and Jordan Williams were my first friends here and they helped me out a lot,” she said. Go was not sure if she would attend the R-MA Upper School at first, but conversations about the future with Lauren and Jordan always involved high school at R-MA and she did not want to miss out on the exciting future with her new friends.

When Go entered her freshman year during the fall of 2013 she went to work immediately. She saw the cadre members at R-MA

and knew she wanted to be one of them as soon as she saw their yellow chords and awesome responsibility. She not only wanted to be a member of Cadre, but also wanted to be at the top of its ranks as R-MA’s Corps Commander. She put in all the work necessary. “I took harder courses, volunteered a lot, became a member of the drill team, helped Cadre with wakeups—I just stayed busy,” said Go. Her efforts bore fruit as she was named R-MA’s Corps Commander last May. “I was very excited because I was not sure I would get the position,” said Go. Early on in her freshman year, there was doubt that she would get the position due to her limited English. However, through hard work, she became fluent in English, and she has proven her leadership skills and dedication time and time again.

There is a scoring system used to determine who will make the best Corps Commander. The criteria comprised of each cadet's Air Force Junior ROTC grade, leadership and activity within the JROTC, hours of community service, personal conduct, and overall GPA. Air Force JROTC instructor Master Sergeant Stephen Pederson P’13, ’15, USAF, Retired, commented, “I can tell you that she had the top score of all cadets for both her sophomore to junior year, and her junior year to senior year. This is why she was selected for Command Chief for her junior year, and likely why she was selected for Corps Commander this year.”

Colonel Frank Link P’17, USAF, Retired, Commandant of Cadets at R-MA, knew Go was the right choice. “We needed to make sure that the Cadre took on a bigger role this year than last year as part of an effort to have students take ownership of the school,” explained Link. “Amy has a passion and focus that helped us start moving in that direction. Her commitment and positive attitude sets the bar for the other cadets and demonstrates leadership by example.”

Xiangwen Guo: College-Bound and Patent Pending

by Cooper Bourdon '11, Communications Assistant Xiangwen Guo ‘17 is a senior at R-MA and is as bright as they come. She is a frequent member of the President’s List and a member of the National Honor Society (NHS) as well as the President of the Math NHS and Science NHS. These impressive resumé builders have landed her on the deferred list at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and granted her admission to the Florida Institute of Technology.

Guo has plans to pursue a career in either mechanical engineering or general engineering. It appears Guo is in the right career path considering how innovative she can be. The 17-year-old already has a patent pending.

14 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Guo developed the idea of creating a dental hygiene tool that would simultaneously clean and massage the gums. “I had braces when I was younger and my orthodontist told me I needed to pay better attention to brushing my gums,” said Guo. “I thought to myself ‘Why not create something specific for my gums then?’”

Guo is in her second year at R-MA and has described it as an “interesting” experience. “I spent the first 15 years of my life in China and never experienced American culture,” Guo explained. “It has definitely been interesting.”

We cannot wait to watch her broaden her experience as she goes off to college next fall.

International Club President Has Found His Way at R-MA

by Cooper Bourdon '11, Communications Assistant Four years on “The Hill” can be a life-changing experience. It forges young people into a person they could not have appreciated before stepping foot on campus. Stephen Okonkwo ’17 has taken full advantage of what R-MA has to offer and this hill has become that life-changing experience.

Okonkwo is from Lagos, Nigeria, and has been an R-MA Yellow Jacket for four years. His transition was difficult at first and he was not sure if this American boarding school would be the one for him. “The hardest part of leaving Nigeria was leaving all of my friends behind,” explained Okonkwo. “There’s a large time difference between America and Nigeria, so I had a hard time keeping in touch with them. If I was going to bed here, then they were waking up there. It was tough.”

Despite the initial struggle, Okonkwo began to adjust to his new lifestyle once he started making friends on campus. “I made friends here who eventually became more like a family and we’ve made some great memories,” he said.

The more a cadet becomes involved on campus, the easier it is for them to make friends and eventually a new family. Okonkwo had the foresight to engage with the R-MA community. The young man became involved with the school in many different aspects as soon as he arrived in 2013. He has played varsity soccer for all four years, logged many hours of community service, became a member of the Cadre

corps, leads the International Club as its president, and much more.

What makes this young man so special is his ability to try new things without talking himself out of them. “I worked stage crew for the theatre production last year and thought to myself, ‘I’d like to experience what it would be like to act on stage in front of an audience.’ So I did,” said Okonkwo. He ended up earning the role as The King in this year’s theatre production of Cinderella. “You have to be willing to leave your comfort zone.”

Okonkwo has a love for singing as well and joined R-MA’s chorus his junior year. “I wanted to learn more about music, and I have learned a lot from Mr. [Michael] DeMato. I can control my breathing as I sing much better than before and have learned how to effectively harmonize,” said Okonkwo. He has certainly applied what he has learned in chorus as he made the district chorus this year.

As mentioned before, he is also the president of the International Club, which is quite the philanthropic group. They are currently raising money to donate to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in order to help provide school supplies for children in underdeveloped countries.

“I have gained a lot by attending R-MA,” claimed Okonkwo. “It has shown me the importance of getting involved, which I think will really help me in college. You never know who you are going to meet, or what connection you are going to make, by simply stepping outside of your room.”

R-MA Middle School's Summer Camp Rising fifth through eighth grade students had a blast at R-MA's summer camp this past July, with some students joining the R-MA family for two weeks while others were here for the full four weeks. The theme for the year was Colonial America.

The 2017 summer dates are set: July 2-14 and/or July 16-28.

The theme this year is Space Rogues! For more information, visit www.rma.edu/summer.

15 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Faculty & Staff

Honoring the Best of the Best: Annual Staff and Faculty Awards 2016-17 Team of the Year:

Maintenance and Grounds

Mark Nebel, Mike Ramos, Ron Henry, Daryl Braun-Duin, Robert Brower, Todd Diehl, Jeff Moxie, Kevin Saunders, Michele Vaughan, Tom Laourdakis When the rest of the state was paralyzed by a massive snowstorm in January 2016, the crews of the Maintenance (top left photo) and Grounds (left photo) departments kept R-MA running. The personnel slept on campus and had the campus open before any other school in the area.

2016-17 Coach of the Year:

Brandy Hudson

Assistant Athletic Director and Varsity Soccer Coach

Year in and year out, Coach Hudson develops winning teams even with a variety of new and returning players. In the spring of 2016, she once again coached her varsity girls’ soccer team to claim the Delaney Athletic Conference Championship title.

16 The Sabre ď ˇ WINTER/SPRING 2017

2016-17 Faculty of the Year:

Tony Ballard

Middle School English and World History Teacher

Cited for having wonderful classroom management skills while earning the respect of his students, Mr. Ballard emphasizes differentiated instruction and technology so that all of his students are able to understand the lessons.

2016-17 Mentor of the Year:

Kim Cramer Upper School Drama and English Teacher

A mother-like figure, Mrs. Cramer is always available for her mentees, whether they are struggling academically or going through a tough time personally. She makes time to meet with her mentees one-on-one. She holds them accountable, but also acts as an advocate for them.

2016-17 Employee of the Quarter:

Kathy Harper Director of Finance

Soon after Kathy Harper started her position at R-MA, the CFO left the Academy, which left Ms. Harper to fill both the Director of Finance and the CFO positions. In spite of the challenges, she proved herself a knowledgeable professional with a sincere smile and quick laugh.

17 The Sabre ď ˇ WINTER/SPRING 2017

Campus News

Getting to Know You: Commandant Col Frank Link

by Hong Li "Henry" Liu '19 Col Frank “Missing” Link was the Chief of the Nuclear Planning, Policy, and Strategy Division at the Pentagon before arriving at R-MA. His twenty-six-year Air Force career included serving as a B-52 navigator and later a B-1 Weapon Systems Officer. With over 2,500 flying hours, Link flew combat sorties in support of Operation Desert Storm; he also served in Operation Iraqi Freedom as Deputy Chief, Master Air Attack Plan Cell, and Chief, Combat Operations.

Other positions that Link has held during his career include Director of Staff for the 32nd Air Operations Group at Ramstein Air Force Base, Germany, and Commander of the 608th Combat Operations Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base, LA. With twenty-six-years of service, Link was ready to put in his retirement papers. What remained uncertain was what he was going to do after military retirement. Most likely, he would continue working at the Pentagon as a civilian. At the same time, Maj Gen Harencak, Link’s supervisor at the Pentagon, heard from Maj Gen Henry M. Hobgood, former president of Randolph-Macon Academy, that R-MA needed a new commandant. Maj Gen Harencak had no doubt that the soon-to-retire Link was the right man for the job and recommended him to Hobgood. With no previous knowledge that such a job was available to him, Link contacted Hobgood about the interesting job opening, and soon was also contacting Brig Gen David Wesley, president of R-MA, with an application. Not much later, on January 15, 2016, Col Frank J. Link, "Colonel Link is a great now USAF, retired, addition to R-MA, following became R-MA’s new commandant. the tradition of Ivan Meith In hindsight, Link and Gary Sadler." believes that one of Jonathan Ezell, Dean of R-MA the most valuable things that the Air Force has taught him is teamwork. “A single person” he says, “will never be as effective as a good team with diverse ideas and points of view.” R-MA’s Cadet Wing, with its diverse cultural backgrounds and diverse points of view, is the perfect basis for such a team, as Link soon realized after spending the first few months of his new job learning about the R-MA campus. He has since decided that it is his responsibility to pass on what he has learned from the Air Force.

The colonel believes that there are two important prerequisites to team-building. The first is a vision or objective: everyone on the team

Commandant Col Frank Link, USAF, Retired (on left) and R-MA President Brig Gen David Wesley, USAF, Retired (back row, on right) present this year's group of Falcon Scholars with their certificates of recognition for completing the Summer Leadership Course in August.

has to be heading in the same direction. The second is responsibility and integrity within every individual of the team, in order to build trust between team members. Instilling such values has long been R-MA’s mission and Link firmly continues that tradition. He is proud that some team-building exercises, such as teamwork-based flight competitions, have already been implemented, and he promises that there’s much more to come.

For Link, being the Commandant of R-MA is its own reward.

What makes him passionate about his job is simply what R-MA is.

The fact that he is a very important part of an institution that exists to produce better citizens not just for America, but for the entire world, is his calling. Link believes that his job success as the Commandant shouldn’t be weighed by what he is doing, but rather by what the cadets are doing. He has discovered since he arrived at R-MA that watching all the cadets grow intellectually and morally is the best part of the job. It is when the seniors graduate and start their paths as leaders that Link knows his job is done. At the same time, he eagerly awaits more to start the R-MA path of Knowledge, Leadership, and Character.

Staff & Faculty Notes Band Director Ed Richards and Chorus Director Michael DeMato attended the Virginia Music Educators’ Association Professional Development In-Service Conference at The Homestead November 17-19, 2016.

College Counselor Mary Gamache participated in the INTOPathways Counselor Fly-In at Colorado State University and Oregon State University July 25-29, 2016. She attended the National Association of College Admission Counselors National Conference September 20-23, 2016. She also participated in the Pennsylvania Liberal Arts Tour November 15-18, 2016, and the U.S. Military Academy (West Point) Counselor Fly-In November 29-December 1, 2016.

Chaplain Joshua Orndorff attended the Interfaith Youth Core

18 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Conference in Oklahoma City on October 16-17. He is also part of the Spiritual Life Inc. Campus Ministry Leadership Team in the Virginia Conference.

In December 2016, Air Force JROTC Instructor MSgt Stephen Pederson, USAF, Retired, graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a master’s degree in space education.

English Department Chair Robert Davies and teachers Bryan McCabe, Lynne Schoonover, Kim Cramer, Brandon Sloan, and James Taafel attended the Shenandoah Valley Writing Project’s Literacy for Social Justice Conference at Shenandoah University on Saturday, September 24, 2016. In the morning, teachers chose presentations of special interest; in the afternoon, author Linda Christensen gave the Keynote Address.

Randolph-Macon Academy: Founded in the College-Prep Tradition by the United Methodist Church

by Cooper Bourdon '11, Communications Assistant In the beginning, it was a simple hill one-half of a mile away from the Shenandoah River, sitting at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This hill witnessed the construction of a town called Front Royal, a Civil War battle, and the growth of a society that would develop a desire for a “male school of high grade.” This is the story of that hill.

The year was 1892. Ellis Island had just opened its doors to the immigrants of the world, the Pledge of Allegiance was about to be introduced to the public school system, Edison General Electric Co. and the Thomson-Houston Co. merged together to form General Electric, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt was just 10 years old. The Wright brothers had not flown yet and the Model-T would not see Henry Ford’s assembly line for another 16 years. On September 6th of this year, Randolph-Macon Academy (R-MA) opened its doors for its first day of classes.

This group is recorded as the first R-MA faculty and their families.

Randolph-Macon Academy's original structure was situated on a hill overlooking Front Royal.

The cost of R-MA’s beautiful building was an estimated $75,000. The New York Times claimed the building to be “among the most perfectly equipped in the United States.”

An editorial from the New York World said, “There is no such institution in the great state of New York, and it is much needed.” There was great excitement surrounding the new academy, but it begs the question of who, what, when, where, and why was this academy established?

The Baltimore Conference of the United Methodist Church desired a college preparatory school for boys within its bounds and under the patronage of the Methodist Church. Professors of Randolph-Macon College (R-MC) in Ashland, Virginia, also under the patronage of the Methodist Church, were troubled by how ill-prepared their students were for college academics.

As a result, R-MC wanted the same thing as the Baltimore Conference: to start a second college preparatory academy to help prepare young men for the rigors of college academics

“under the auspices of the [Methodist] Church.” (There was already such a school set to open in Liberty, Virginia, in 1890).

The Commonwealth of Virginia had a population of one and one-half million Americans, with one-third of them identified as Methodist. The desires of both the Baltimore Conference and Randolph-Macon College coincided, and Virginia was the perfect place to fulfill them.

A large majority of this fulfillment can be accredited to R-MC’s president, Dr. William Waugh Smith. Without action an idea remains nothing more than an idea, and Dr. Smith embodied what it meant to be proactive. On March 14, 1889, Dr. Smith began a correspondence with the Baltimore Conference: “To the members of the Baltimore Conference: Dear Brethren: The Virginia Conference, at its last session, adopted a resolution and appointed a Committee to take measures to establish a great Methodist Academy, and to invite the cooperation of your conference in the enterprise. As Chairman of that Committee, I ask of your body to set apart a suitable time when the enterprise may be presented to the Conference.”

The Baltimore Conference was receptive to Dr. Smith’s letter, especially after the report they received from their own Board of Education. The board revealed an increase in R-MC’s attendance from 109 to 194, that one-third of the student body were ministerial students, and 19 of said ministerial students were from the Baltimore Conference. After further correspondence, the Baltimore Conference agreed to help erect a “Methodist Academy” within its bounds. The question, which still remained, was where?

The answer to that question was left to an appointed board called the “Building Committee of the Baltimore Conference Academy.” This board, comprised of Dr. Smith and five Continued on next page 19 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Campus News

Even in its first year of operation, Randolph-Macon Academy managed to field a baseball team.

members of the R-MC Board of Trustees, was entrusted to “select a site, secure contributions and take measures to erect the Academy.” They received two proposals regarding which locations to use for the new academy. The first proposal came from Middletown, Virginia, and the second was from Front Royal, Virginia.

The Middletown proposal, signed by C.W. Peery, G.W. Larrick, and David Harris, offered, “15 acres, including a lawn before a grove of 8 acres in the center of said site located within 1/3 mile of the railroad station; 160 lots estimated at $200 each; and cash donations of $4,000.”

A very generous offer to say the least. The Front Royal proposal was signed by H. H. Downing, President of the Front Royal and Riverton Improvement Co., and it read: “If the conference selects this point for the Academy and expends on the same not less than $20,000 nor over $100,000 the Front Royal and Riverton Improvement Co. will give five acres of eligible ground to be selected by an equal Committee from the Conference and Improvement Co., and in addition will contribute in cash toward the erection

20 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

These serious-looking young men made up the 1905 football team.

of said building one fourth as much as is expended on it by said Conference. This offer is conditioned upon the acceptance of this proposition on or before the 15th of October 1890 and if accepted upon the farther condition that work be commenced within twelve months from this date and prosecuted to completion with reasonable diligence.”

Front Royal became the chosen location of the new Methodist academy. Logistically, it was the perfect location for a college preparatory school, or any business for that matter.

The intersection of the Shenandoah Railroad and the Richmond & Danville Railroad was located in Front Royal. They each connected with the Baltimore and Ohio Railroads at the Shenandoah Junction giving travelers access to cities in every direction. Washington D.C., Baltimore, Harrisonburg, Roanoke, and Salem are just a few examples.

Front Royal did not just suit the Methodist academy logistically, but also culturally. Both Front Royal and neighboring Riverton had: “Long been known as the home of an eminently moral and religious population, possessed of much

its time. It was equipped with 370 Edison incandescent light bulbs, hot and cold running water, and a steam heating system. The dorm rooms were “large, airy rooms” supplied with washstands, a bureau, two single bedsteads, pillows, and chairs. Each room had its own window as well, so students could access the natural light and fresh air if they wished to have it.

Finding teachers did not prove too difficult a task either. B.W. Bond was named principal of the new academy beginning April 1, 1892. His responsibilities included supervision of the school, reporting to the President and Chief of the Board, and creating quarterly financial reports to said President and Chief. Among the first faculty members to be hired were Bolivar C. Nettles, Charles L. Melton, Miss Gertrude Blackwell, and Hall Canter. Dr. M.L. Garrison was the The original building of Randolph-Macon Academy as viewed from the north side. school’s physician and Mrs. L. Green was its matron. culture and refinement… Both these towns, under the It cost a substantial amount of money to construct the local option law of the State of Virginia, have voted building and pay its faculty and staff. Dr. Smith played a against the licensing of the sale of liquor, and therefore pivotal role in financing the endeavors of the academy in Front have not a single saloon or bar-room within their Royal. His incredible efforts raised $460,000 in cash, bonds, limits.” and land; Randolph-Macon Academy at Front Royal received It was the perfect marriage between the Baltimore $90,000 of the sum.

Conference, Randolph-Macon College, and the town of Front The first day of class was September 6, 1892, just two Royal. In the fall of 1890, the idea of a Methodist Academy days before the Pledge of Allegiance was first recited in the within the bounds of the Baltimore Conference under the American public school system. After the first week of class, patronage of Randolph-Macon College came into full fruition. only 42 students were enrolled in the academy, not exactly the However, there was still a lot of work to be done before number R-MC Board members and the Baltimore Conference opening day. The plot of land had to be chosen, suitable had hoped for. This warranted a recruiting trip for Dr. Bond in faculty and staff had to be selected, and the building had to be order to increase enrollment at the brand-new academy. By the constructed and financed. end of R-MA’s first semester, there were 59 students enrolled The construction of the building was executed with on top of the hill. minimal conflict and was ready for classes by September of Watch www.rma.edu/anniversary for additional stories 1892 as agreed upon. The building was one of the finest of about the Academy’s 125-year history!

21 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Campus News

R-MA's 125th Anniversary: A Year-Long Celebration

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21 Director of Public Relations Randolph-Macon Academy will celebrate its 125th Anniversary in 2017 with events ranging from the most formal of gatherings to a come-one-come-all free community party.

Founded as a college prep school in 1892, R-MA added a military component in 1917; that means that not only is the school celebrating its 125th founding, but it is celebrating a century of adhering to military values such as integrity, duty, honor, and self-discipline.

The 125th Anniversary will permeate all that happens during the year, such as the 125th graduation ceremony being held on May 27, 2017 and Homecoming Weekend October 6-8, 2017. R-MA even partnered with Virginia STEAM Academy "STEAMing to 125" to offer a special program on February 18, 2017. However, there are also events being planned specifically to honor the Academy’s history and heritage, as well as its place in the local community.

The first event will be the 125th Anniversary Gala held on Saturday, April 8, 2017, at Westwood Country Club in Vienna, VA. The location was chosen upon the recommendation of R-MA Board of Trustee and Gala Chairwoman Donna Bogart P'03, '07, with the idea that it would be more accessible for alumni from the Northern Virginia, Baltimore, and Richmond areas.

Highlighting the events of the gala will be a presentation by wounded warrior, war hero, and quadruple amputee Staff Sergeant Travis Mills, USA, Retired. Mills’s story is featured in the book Tough As They Come. Learn more about Mills’ incredible story at https://www.travismills.org.

The gala committee is currently seeking partners to sponsor the event. Any proceeds above the cost of the event will go into the Academy’s endowment, which is used to provide scholarships for

Randolph-Macon Academy’s 125th Anniversary Celebration Events

125th Anniversary Gala

April 8, 2017

A special black tie optional celebration at Westwood Country Club in Vienna, Virginia, with guest speaker Travis Mills.

Founder’s Weekend

April 28-30, 2017

Athletic events, the Spring Concert, a 5K Run, a Chapel Service, and a Community Celebration with activities, games, and entertainment for the entire family!

125th Graduating Class Community Service Day 125th Homecoming

May 27, 2017 September 11, 2017 October 6-8, 2017

For more information, visit

www.rma.edu/anniversary 22 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

students to attend R-MA. For more information, contact Kittie Abell, Vice President of Development and Alumni Programs, at kabell@rma.edu or 540-636-5206.

At the end of April, the entire R-MA community will gather for a free community event, open to the public, to celebrate the 125th Anniversary. This campus-wide event, Founder’s Weekend, will take place April 2830, 2017. It will kick off on Friday, April 28th, with a plethora of R-MA home sports events, including varsity girls’ soccer, varsity baseball, varsity lacrosse, and varsity boys' tennis. That evening, there will be a special demonstration by the R-MA drill team at the ”Taste of the Town” events in downtown Front Royal.

On Saturday, the 29th, the day will begin with a 5K Run, which will be open to the public. A free community celebration will be held from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. This celebration, while still in the planning stages, is set to include rides, games, special presentations, and music. Already scheduled are Amazing Grace the Mule, a cornhole tournament, Turbo the Flying Dog, hay rides, face painting, food trucks, and community vendors.

In addition, media partners WINC 92.5 and WZRV The River 95.3 will be airing live from the event. There will be also lessons on how to march, bounce rides, and free cake and ice cream! Watch www. rma.edu/celebration for more information.

The weekend will wrap up with a chapel service on Sunday, April 30th, followed by refreshments for all attendees. At 4:00 pm, the R-MA band, chorus, and handbells will present the Spring Concert. All events are free and open to the SSG Travis Mills, USA, Retired, public. author of the New York Times Because this is a free bestseller Tough As They Come and event, open to the general a quadruple amputee, will deliver public, R-MA is seeking an inspiring message at R-MA's sponsors to help offset the 125th Anniversary Gala on cost of the event. Those April 8, 2017. interested may contact Jay Smith, Director of Planned Giving and Alumni Outreach at jsmith@rma.edu or 540-6365343. Community businesses interested in hosting a booth at the Community Celebration event may contact Celeste Brooks, Director of Public Relations, at cbrooks@rma.edu or 540-636-5482.

Information about sponsorship opportunities for both of these April 2017 events can also be found online at www.rma.edu/125thanniversary-schedule-events.

The celebration won’t end in April; R-MA’s 125th Anniversary will be celebrated during graduation, a community service day, and of course at Homecoming October 6-8, 2017. For information, contact R-MA at 540-636-5482.

R-MA's Distinguished alumnus of the year: Gen WAlter Boomer '56

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21, Director of Public Relations At this year’s Alumni Luncheon during Homecoming on October 15th, Gen Walter Boomer ’56, USMC, Retired, was recognized with the Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Upon graduating from Randolph-Macon Academy, Boomer attended Duke University with the intent of eventually serving a few years as an officer in the Navy, something that had been a longtime dream of his mother’s. Upon arriving at Duke, however, the young man realized that he could become a Marine, and something about the idea called to him.

When he first shared the news with his mother, she did not take kindly to the idea. Having been raised in Norfolk, “she thought the epitome of a gentleman was a Navy officer,” Boomer explained.

When he shared his desire to become a Marine, she was immediately against it. Eventually, however, she came to understand that this was the best decision for her son.

“I still didn’t intend to stay for a career. I had no intention of staying in the Marine Corps,” Boomer emphasized. “I was going to serve my two, three years and get out. But it began to resonate.

I really began to like it. And perhaps most importantly I really developed a respect for those above me. They just seemed to be good men.”

Although he initially turned down the regular commission offered to him (he had a reserve commission at that time), Boomer changed his mind and the Marines were happy to welcome him in as a regular infantry officer. He served two tours in Vietnam, the first one as infantry company commander in 1966-1967. The second time was in 1971-72 as an advisor to the Vietnamese Marines; the U.S. Marines had, by that time, pulled out.

After Vietnam, he served a series of different tours, while at the same time, the Marine Corps sent him to graduate school at American University. With the completion of his degree there, Boomer owed the Marines a “payback tour” in which he had to serve a tour of duty associated with the degree. In his case, that meant teaching for three years at the Naval Academy, where he headed up the Department of Management.

His next move was to Hawaii as a battalion commander, where he was deployed around the Pacific. “When I was a colonel, I was on recruiting duty,” he recalled. “And then, lightning struck. They decided to promote me to brigadier general. Those of us that were selected looked around at our colleagues and said, ‘How did they pick us?’ But nevertheless, they did.”

In spite of the fact that his career had been built on being an infantry officer, Boomer’s first assignment as a brigadier general was as the public affairs officer for the Marine Corps. Boomer was stunned, as he had no experience in public affairs, but he accepted the assignment without question, determined to do his best…even though internally he was certain that his career as a general officer was over before it had even begun.

“It turned out to be a great job,” he said. “I learned a lot, I made a lot of friends in the media at the national level. The job helped me later on too, because I understood the media, how to work with them, who they were.”

At his next promotion to major general, he was stationed in New Orleans as the head of all the Marine Corps Reserve. Then he was promoted again, to lieutenant general. “Literally driving from New Orleans to my next duty station at Camp Pendleton, California, I heard on the news that Iraq had invaded Kuwait.” At the time, driving cross-country, he was out of touch with headquarters, but he knew what it meant. He arrived at Camp Pendleton on schedule, and nine

Gen Walter Boomer '56, USMC, Retired, receives the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Presenting the award are R-MA President Brig Gen David C. Wesley, USAF, Retired, and R-MA Alumni Association President Scarlett H. (Praml) Kibler '89. days later he was in Saudi Arabia.

Boomer was now in charge of all the Marines during the first Gulf War—92,000 men and women. “We liberated Kuwait, came back home,” he summarized. “I think it was done well, it was done quickly. And it was done with little loss of life. And then we left.”

Upon his return to the States, he hoped to stay at Camp Pendleton for a while, but the Commandant asked him to return and become the commanding general at Quantico. “All of our school systems are at Quantico, [including] Marine Corps University, and he said, ‘That’s where we really need you.’” So once again, Boomer went where he was needed, feeling this was the pinnacle of his career and would be his final assignment. “At that point, I fully intended to leave, because I wasn’t going to get a better job than the one I had.”

However, by this time, the Commandant of the Marine Corps was a friend of Boomer’s: Gen Carl Mundy. And he wasn’t about to let Boomer go just yet. Mundy called and, according to Boomer, said, “I want you to come to Washington and be the Assistant Commandant.”

Boomer expressed his reluctance, feeling it was time to retire, but eventually acquiesced. He spent a few years in that position before finally retiring in 1994 at age 55.

Boomer left the Marine Corps with a purpose in mind: to become the CEO of a major corporation. He started out at McDermott International in New Orleans. He was there for six months and was then asked to move to Ohio to become president of Babcock and Wilcox, a company they had acquired. He was in that position for two years, then became CEO at Rogers Corporation. He moved Rogers from the American Exchange to the New York Stock Exchange, and was chairman and CEO for nine years.

Boomer has served on several Boards of Directors, including Baxter International, CYTEC, and the boards of several private companies. For a number of years, he was also the chairman of the Marine Heritage Foundation, which is building the National Museum of the Marine Corps. The group has raised over $170 million and the last half of the museum is expected to be completed in the spring of 2017.

With such a long, honorable career in both the military and the See "Boomer," page 25 23 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Campus News

Homecoming 2016 Memories

24 The Sabre ď ˇ WINTER/SPRING 2017

Kiley Williams '04 Honored as Distinguished Young Alumnus of the Year

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21, Director of Public Relations and Jonathan Pederson '15 At Homecoming on October 15, 2016, entrepreneur Kiley Williams ’04 was honored as the Distinguished Young Alumnus of the Year.

A top athlete at R-MA and a member of the drill team, Williams continued his success in the classroom and on the athletic field at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), where he Kiley Williams '04 (center) is presented the Distinguished Young Alumnus Award by R-MA became a national championship President Brig Gen David Wesley, USAF, competitor in NCAA Retired, and Scarlett H. (Praml) Kibler '89.

Division III Track and Field and majored in Information Systems. At the same time, he created the CMU Connector to assist collaboration during group projects, and joined with other students to create FrontListings.com, which assists students with buying and selling college essentials.

In addition, Williams obtained an internship at Microsoft, where he worked for six months. He continued to work for Microsoft for four years after he graduated from CMU in 2008.

Williams joined together with a CMU classmate to start a software company designed to optimize time by simplifying and deconflicting schedules. Entitled Thyme Technologies, this software combines Outlook, Google Calendar, social media, text messaging, and other sources of schedules into one location to make it convenient to track your professional and personal life. Before reaching the age of 30, Williams successfully sold his company.

Williams continues working as an entrepreneur while coaching track in Seattle and acting as an unofficial mentor to teens and young adults whom he began mentoring when working at Microsoft. He also enjoys using his personal time yachting around the world, visiting places such as Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, Croatia and Italy.

Through all these experiences and travels, Williams keeps R-MA with him. He said, “Relationships at R-MA last a long time. Even the people you would’ve never imagined being friends with become lifetime friends.”

Boomer, continued from page 23 civilian business world, it is little wonder that Boomer was selected to receive the Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award for 2016. After receiving the award, Boomer said, “R-MA has always meant a lot to me, so I was truly honored to receive the Alumni of the Year Award at this year’s Homecoming. We are all products of our upbringing.

In addition to a wonderful supportive family, R-MA played a very important role during a formative period in my life. The life’s lessons I learned from a great, dedicated faculty and staff served me well in the ensuing years. You’re at an age when you’re at R-MA when you’re looking for role models. My parents were good role models

for me, thankfully, but you also need more than that. And the faculty here at that time left an impression on me in terms of the way they conducted themselves, in terms of the way they led us, in terms of the way they disciplined us, in terms of the way they taught us.”

Combined with the education and the exposure to the military program, he concluded, “I came away, I think, better set up to handle what was coming down the road as a result of my time here. I believe R-MA provides the same wonderful education and guidance for its students today and it will continue to receive my support.”

25 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Our Alumni

From the Class of 1949 to the Class of 2016, Alumni and Special Guests Return

The following alumni and friends of the Academy returned to "The Hill" for Homecoming 2016:

Allen Jennings ‘49 Byron Gayle ‘50 Conrad Koneczny ‘51 Charles Corder ‘53 Charlie Richardson ‘53 Clayton Wynham ‘53 Pete Holladay ‘54 George Mathias ‘54 John Cornwell ‘55 Bill Hall ‘55 Tony Morris ‘55 Tyler Peter ‘55 Walt Boomer ‘56 Charles Duke ‘56 Boyd Eaton ‘56 Drewry Fuqua ‘56 Allan Gohrband ‘56 William Hudson ‘56 Harry Jennings ‘56 Lew Nalls ‘56 Glenn Nelson ‘56 Dick Poulson ‘56 Ed Wildrick ‘56 Dick Adams ‘58 Dave Johnston ‘58 Henry Light ‘58 Phil Covell ‘59 Lew Jones ‘59 Jay Selden ‘60 Ed Hawkins ‘61 Jim Wagner ‘61 Rich Humphreys ‘64 Leon Mason ‘64 George Peterson ‘64 Jack Shockey ‘65 Pierre Charbonnet ‘66 Lee Clark ‘66 Waugh Crigler ‘66 Bill Curl ‘66 Gary Dressel ‘66 Steve Friski ‘66 Milton Gore ‘66 Pete Hopkins ‘66 Chip Humphrey ‘66 Wise Kelly ‘66 Rick Lowman ‘66 Charlie McFall ‘66 Mark Neale ‘66 Chris Nye ‘66 Mark Pellerin ‘66

Grattan Reynolds ‘66 Chip Rohr ‘66 Ron Simar ‘66 Sam Snead ‘66 Calvin Stanley ‘66 Bill Wetsel ‘66 Dan Fines ‘67 Earl Allen ‘68 John Simar ‘68 Doug Huthwaite ‘69 George McIntyre ‘69 Buck Swafford ‘69 Vince Amigh ‘70 Warren Boyer ‘70 Bernie Cline ‘70 Jim Fort ‘70 Tom Garner ‘70 David Lawrence ‘70 John Stufflebeem ‘70 John Swann ‘70 Eric Carlson ‘73 Wayne Sealock ‘73 Julian Moore ‘74 Harry Austin ‘75 Dave Puster ‘75 Glynn Williams ‘75 John Finucan ‘76 Mark Jennings ‘76 Joe Silek ‘77 Curtis Harper ‘78 Mark Rogers ‘78 Doug Stiers ‘79 Mike Sult ‘79 Charlie Ward ‘81 Andy Harriman ‘82

26 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Joy (Kelly) Dyer ‘85 Michelle Beaver ‘86 Mike Garner ‘86 Steve Miller ‘86 James Sinclair ‘86 Chris Trimble ‘86 Steven Cummins ‘87 Scott Harwood ‘87 Eric Anderson ‘88 Mike Starling ‘88 Scarlett (Praml) Kibler ‘89 Adrian Perry ‘90 Shawn Archer ‘91 Shelly (Barr) Kats ‘93 Barrett Norris ‘94 James Johnson ‘95 Kelvin Ampofo ‘96 David Bunch ‘96 Wendy (Holder) Cochrane ‘96 Lauren (Da Costa) Cowan ‘96 Ali Gharib ‘96 Todd Hall ‘96 Shaun Henderson ‘96 Robert Johnson ‘96 Tammy (Johnson) Hackard ‘96 Laila (Gharib) Khosh ‘96 Eli Sanderlin ‘96 Samuel Scrivener ‘96 Christine (Hoffman) Skiles ‘96 Joe Thomas ‘96 Dawn (May) Tirrell ‘96 Omar Wooten ‘96 Jennifer Hoover ‘97 Mario Plaza ‘97 Joshua Scharfenberger ‘97

Napoleon Byars ‘98 Luke Scharfenberger ‘98 Rymel Short ‘98 Brandon Burger ‘00 Daniel Shelby ‘00 Michael Fischer ‘01 Rob Markendorff ‘01 Annie Brander ‘02 David Parrish ‘02 David Aubrey ‘03 Kiley Williams ‘04 Alex Boulden ‘06 Nick Finucan ‘06 Christine Garzon ‘06 Alexander Grant ‘06 Bo Snitchler ‘06 Jacob Walker ‘07 Christine Harper ‘08 Austin Monroe ‘08 Andrew Pfister ‘08 Lauralee Roos ‘08 Rob Sittman ‘08 Alice Barlow ‘09 Allyn Collins ‘09 Chris Abare ‘10 Scott Samson ‘10 Cooper Bourdon ‘11 Kira Dalrymple ‘11 Jared Purcell ‘11 Malik Cochran ‘15 Peter Blair ‘16 Eva Bogdewic ‘16 Breanna Collins ‘16 Torian Gadson ‘16 Ashley Grossman ‘16 Taylor Jones ‘16 Will Long ‘16 Paul Miller ‘16 ​Victoria Quigley ‘16​ Siqin Xie ‘16

Special Guests Pepper McFall Blankinship Maurice Bowen Ann Umstot Bussey Lucy Williams Hooper Jean McFall Simar Maria Tederick

Class Notes

All of these Class Notes first appeared in the e-newsletter, The Dome Dispatch. If you are not receiving The Dome Dispatch and would like to be added to the distribution list, please e-mail alumni@rma.edu or sign up at www.rma.edu/Alumni-Updates.

1930s

Notable R-MA graduate Joseph Young ‘37, pictured here from the 1937 yearbook, passed away in 2007 having completed more than 60 architectural art projects throughout the country, including mosaics at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC. Art historians and community activists were awarded a $100,000 grant in December to restore Young’s kinetic sculpture, called "The Triforium," in downtown Los Angeles. "The Triforium" (pictured below) is a six-story, 60-ton public sculpture in the Los Angeles Mall Civic Center complex, located at the intersection of Temple and Main Streets.

1940s

Paul Shrader ‘46 wasn’t able to attend Homecoming 2016 for his 70th class reunion but he shared that the Homecoming registration packet cover photo (above) brought back memories.

“The drill squad was being awarded first place by Lady Astor,” he wrote. “We were very proud of this award.” The trophy for best squad at the American Legion Invitational Drill Contest is still on display in the Melton Gym trophy case after 70 years!

1960s

Photo provided by Downtowngal

Victor Besancon ‘61 and Rosemary, his wife of 55 years, recently moved into a 55+ retirement community in Sun City, CA. They are enjoying the community’s amenities, including the two golf courses.

For the 1897-1898 school year, class periods (on average) were 30 minutes long and there were 12 periods in an academic day!

Help us celebrate our 125th Anniversary!

Share your #RandomacFacts with @RandolphMaconA on Twitter.

“I drive our own golf cart, Baby Blue, and think it’s time to simplify,” he notes.

“Selling the classic Century boat and restored ‘82 Piper Dakota 236 airplane.

Think we will keep our feet on the ground and try motor homing in the future!”

Ed Linsley ‘65 has retired after more than 40 years in the fiduciary trust business at various banks and government regulators. Ed started with the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) in 1976-1983, then worked at First National Bank of Atlanta (now Wells Fargo) and Bank South (now Bank of America) and finally Reliance Trust Company from 1996 until retiring in October 2016.

The Honorable B. Waugh Crigler ‘66 has been included in Virginia Business magazine’s 2016 list of “Legal Elite” in the Alternative Dispute Resolution category. Judge Crigler joined The McCammon Group in 2014 after 32 years of service as a United States Magistrate Judge for the Western District of Virginia. Judge Crigler received his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Tennessee College of Law and his Bachelor of Arts degree from Washington and Lee University. Since joining The McCammon Group in 2014, Judge Crigler has successfully completed over 150 mediations and arbitrations. The “Legal Elite” recognized lawyers are selected by their peers as outstanding attorneys in 18 specialties. Voting for “Legal Elite” is open to all licensed Virginia lawyers. Judge Crigler was selected by his peers in 2015 as well.

1970s

Bill Abelkop ’70, Warren Boyer ’70, Bernie Cline ’70, Jim Fort ’70 and John Stufflebeem ’70 have visited campus several times so far this school year, with the first visit being at registration to welcome the freshman class, the Class of 2020. This visit was teamed with a scavenger hunt for key 27 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Our Alumni

Class Notes, continued from previous page

places on campus and a pizza party.

They returned at Fall Family Weekend to present their class scholarship, followed by a visit before holiday break to attend the Candlelight Christmas service. Most recently they treated the Freshman Class to a Second Semester Pizza Party at Melting Pot Pizza.

This inaugural program, the 20/70 Partnership, pairs the Class of 1970 with the freshman class. When the Class of 2020 graduates, the Class of 1970 will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of their graduation. During the next four years, the Class of 1970 hopes to go beyond providing a pizza party or two, by serving as mentors to these young people during high school. See related story, page 34.

Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brian Hamilton The 108th Training Command (IET) honored Maj. Gen. David W. Puster ‘75 (pictured above) for completing more than 30 years of military service with a retirement ceremony in August at its command headquarters in Charlotte, NC. His most recent assignment was serving as the Eighth Army Deputy Commanding General Sustainment in Seoul, South Korea. Puster was presented with a Distinguished Service Medal during the ceremony.

1980s

When the Vice Presidential debate came to Longwood University in October, it fostered a mini-R-MA reunion. Scott Harwood ‘87 and Marcus Lindsey ‘89 were able to catch up in Scott’s Farmville, VA, office before the debate.

Scott owns an insurance company in Farmville and Marcus was attached to the Secret Service detail traveling with the campaign.

28 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Geoff Ashton ‘88 (pictured departing Puerto Vallarta) reported that he just arrived in the Kingdom of Tonga. He has been sailing the past two years with wife Miriam and sons Horatio and Noah aboard their sloop ENOUGH. After leaving Mexico this past March they have visited the Marquesas, Tuomotus, Society Islands, Cook Islands, Niue and Vavau Tonga. They planned to spend the Cyclone season in New Zealand. Details of their adventure can be found at www. enoughsailing.com

Keith Zawistowski ‘97 and his wife Marie (pictured below) were featured in the October issue of Architect magazine.

After successes at Auburn University and Virginia Tech, the Zawistowskis traveled to France where they have broken ground on a design/build workshop in Villefontaine, outside Lyon, and are training a new generation of architects.

Their work at OnSite Architecture is driven to improve the lives of others through architecture.

1990s

Kelly Snodgras ‘95 is the Vice President of Client Relations at RS Financial Group in Memphis, TN, and is pictured with her son and first child, Kristopher Sky Snodgras, who was born June 9, 2015.

Kelvin Ampofo ‘96 checked in over lunch in DC to give feedback on the Class of 1996’s 20th reunion. His comments and feedback from other alumni will be pulled together as we plan Homecoming 2017. Jay Smith, Director of Planned Giving and Alumni Programs, presented Kelvin with his Class Agent of the Year plaque.

Photo by David Carlier

2010s

It was a mini Class of 2011 reunion on campus in September when Cara Brown ‘11, Chesler Lindsey ‘11, Cooper Bourdon ‘11, and Kellie Sanders ‘11 met with History Department Chairman Brian Barbour.

In 1995, R-MA Middle School opened, serving day and boarding students in grades 6 to 8.

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KJ Graham ‘13 (pictured below) is a senior at Averitt University and just earned his private pilot certificate on December 2. He will graduate with a degree in aviation management next December and continues to work toward his goal to fly commercially.

Ken Goodrich ‘11 (pictured here with Academic Dean Jonathan Ezell) is pursuing a double major in biology and bioengineering with minors in chemistry and computer science at the University of Pittsburgh. He took a year off to complete a round of research at UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) in the Neurosurgery Department and presented his research at the annual meeting of the American Association of Neurosurgeons in 2015.

Last semester he completed a round of lung and esophageal cancer research and performed animal research and minor surgeries.

Ian C. Cochran ‘12 graduated from Army Basic Training last August at Fort Sill, OK. He was 1st Platoon Leader and was selected as Soldier of the Week during his training. Later that month, he reported to Fort Sam Houston, TX, for Advanced Training for Combat Medic.

A state football rivalry brought together a pair of R-MA friends. Jacob Dodson ‘15, a member of the UVA Band, met up with Benjamin Pederson ‘13, a member of the Tech Corps of Cadets, at the Virginia vs. Virginia Tech football game in November. Jacob is in his second year at UVA, studying political science and economics. Ben is a senior at Virginia Tech University, studying meteorology.

Jake Branham ‘16 (pictured at left), John Christoph ‘12, Emma Bunker ‘16, Caitlin Bunker ‘14, and Amy Gray ‘15 checked in during winter break.

Attending Young Alumni Day 2017 were (photos below, top to bottom): Juliet Arcila Rojas ‘13, Roop Atwal ‘15, and Jared Purcell ‘11; Malik Cochran ‘15; Faith (Funderberg) Keller ‘14; Teunis Verheul ‘15 and William Wong ‘16.

Also attending, but not pictured: Ashley Birk ‘11, Taylor Jones’16, Juliette Michael ‘11, and Ixel Ochoa ‘15.

Faith (Funderberg) Keller ‘14 married Airman Brandon Keller in a June 18 ceremony officiated by R-MA Director of Student Life Michael Williams. Brandon is stationed at Cannon Air Force Base in Clovis, NM, and Faith is finishing her studies at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Arizona campus.

Cole Johnston ‘15 graduated from Air Force Tech School at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX, last September.

He will serve in the security forces in the Air Force Reserves.

29 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Our Alumni

Alumni Profile: Samir Suleiman '93

by Cooper Bourdon '11, Communications Assistant In the summer of 1991, RandolphMacon Academy (R-MA) hosted the Art Monk football camp and welcomed many young athletes from around the state. Among these athletes was a young man from Luray, Virginia, who was preparing to start his junior year of high school.

Samir Suleiman ’93 attended the Art Monk football camp and used it as an opportunity to explore a school with quality sports and superior academics. “I thought R-MA’s facilities were great and their higher level of education appealed to me too,” said Suleiman. Once he arrived at R-MA for his junior year he became involved with extracurricular activities immediately. He first joined the football team and eventually participated in basketball, baseball, and the National Honor Society.

After he graduated from R-MA in the spring of 1993, Suleiman attended James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on a football scholarship. He played wide receiver in a pro-style offense and in the fall of 1994 helped his team win the Lambert Cup Championship. Two and a half years after their championship season, Suleiman graduated from JMU with a bachelor of

Save the Date!

Homecoming Weekend October 6-8, 2017

science in sports management.

It was Suleiman’s goal to work for a professional sports franchise so he sent his résumé to every NFL and NBA team. In spite of his diligence he did not receive any leads, but his fortune began to change after his exit interview with the JMU football coach.

Suleiman’s coach had connections in the NFL, including one at their Headquarters in New York City. After he sent Suleiman’s résumé to his contact, Suleiman landed an interview and eventually a job on the NFL Management Council. During his time with the Management Council, Suleiman soon became a hot commodity in contract negotiations. Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) had only been around for a couple of years when Suleiman started working on the Management Council. As a result, he was able to observe the evolution of CBAs and all of its intricacies.

While mastering the art of CBAs, Suleiman played for the Brooklyn Mariners semi-professional football team and in 1997 recorded a championship victory in the Garden State Football League. After one year with the Management Council, NFL teams began to recognize the fruits of Suleiman’s labor, and they wanted a taste.

The Jacksonville Jaguars were the first to obtain Suleiman in 1998 and made him the

Teacher salaries in 1898 were around $400 a year.

Share your #RandomacFacts with @RandolphMaconA on Twitter.

30 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Manager of Contract Information. He created and distributed salary cap reports throughout the year. Suleiman was also trusted with the details of the team’s travel plans: which hotel the team stayed in, how they were transported, where they would rendezvous for team meetings, etc. Despite his many responsibilities with the Jaguars, his main duty was his role as the secondary contract negotiator.

After two years in Jacksonville, the St. Louis Rams, impressed by Suleiman’s contract negotiation performance with the Jaguars, offered him the newly created position Director of Football Administration and eventually the Director of Football Operations. This was a vital role within the organization and Suleiman did not disappoint. He was the primary contract negotiator of more than 700 player contracts, managed the then $116 million salary cap, represented the Rams organization at NFL meetings, served as the liaison to the NFL Office, Players Association, and player agents, and much more. He left the Rams in 2009 and is currently with the Pittsburgh Steelers where he performs similar tasks.

Suleiman is a sportsman through and through. He is not only a former college and semi-professional football player, but also a big game hunter. Suleiman is a member of Safari Club International and has multiple entries in their record book. He has hunted in 22 states and three countries including Mozambique where he uprooted and eliminated a killer hippopotamus and fed it to the local village. Suleiman also enjoys traveling and has ventured to 40 states, 15 countries, and every continent except Antarctica. He most recently traveled to Peru and hiked Machu Picchu with his girlfriend, Erin.

No matter how far he travels, he can always find his roots in the Shenandoah Valley on top of the hill in Front Royal, Virginia. It was at Randolph-Macon Academy where he learned the crucial lessons that prepared him for the future.

When asked if he learned anything at R-MA that he still uses in his daily activities, his response was, “Discipline, promptness, and respect for others.”

Former R-MA Teacher and War Hero Samuel Umstot Honored at Homecoming

by Cooper Bourdon '11, Communications Assistant Every year for homecoming weekend the Randolph-Macon Academy community gathers at Melton Memorial Gymnasium for their annual Memorial Ceremony. This ceremony is meant to celebrate and remember the alumni and members of the R-MA community who sacrificed their lives for their country.

There was a name on the list for the 2016 Memorial Service that was particularly special to the class of 1966, who were celebrating their Golden Anniversary. Captain Samuel Gilmore Umstot was a chemistry teacher at R-MA from 1963-66. His daughter, Ann Bussey, was in attendance and received an American flag, which had been flown over the R-MA campus in her father’s honor.

Captain Umstot was a part of the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment of the United States Army Medical Service Corps in 1968. On September 12, 1968, Captain Umstot and his comrades were on a reconnaissance mission when they were suddenly ambushed by heavy machine gun fire and rocket propelled grenades. The ambush caused many casualties and Captain Umstot sprang into action. He began to treat his fallen comrades based on the severity of their wounds and directed their evacuations to a safer location.

As the battle grew in ferocity, so did Captain Umstot’s performance. Despite the advancing line of the Viet Cong, he continued to treat the wounds of his comrades. That was when he was hit by enemy fire and lost his own life.

His efforts on that fateful day saved many lives and helped his infantry win the battle. On September 22, 1968, Captain Umstot was awarded the Bronze Star.

According to research historian Andrew E. Woods of the Colonel Robert R. McCormick Research Center, Captain Umstot received the Bronze Star for: “…Meritorious Service. For distinguishing himself by outstanding meritorious service in connection with ground operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam during the period June 1968 to September 1968. Through his untiring efforts and professional ability, he consistently obtained outstanding results. He was quick to grasp the implications of new problems with which he was

faced as a result of the ever changing situations inherent in a counterinsurgency operation and to find ways and means to solve those problems… His initiative, zeal, sound judgment and devotion to duty have been in the highest tradition of The United States Army and reflect great credit on him and on the military service.”

On October 3, 1968, he was awarded the Silver Star for: “…Gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam: On this date, Captain Umstot was serving as the battalion medical operations assistant on a reconnaissance in force operation. As the friendly force proceeded through the treacherous area, it was suddenly subjected to intense rocket propelled grenade, machine gun, and automatic weapons fire from well concealed enemy positions which caused numerous casualties. Exposing himself to the enemy barrage raking the area, Captain Umstot began treating the more seriously wounded and directed their immediate evacuation to more secure locations. When the battle

intensified, he continued to supervise the medical aid teams removing the injured soldiers. While moving about the area, he observed several casualties lying near the advancing Viet Cong position. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Captain Umstot maneuvered through the hail of hostile rounds and was mortally wounded while administering first aid to a companion.

The exemplary courage, outstanding professional leadership, and selfless concern for his comrades demonstrated

by Captain Umstot were instrumental in saving numerous lives, and significantly contributed to the success of the mission.

Captain Umstot’s unquestionable valor in close combat against numerically superior hostile forces is in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.”

Captain Umstot volunteered to serve in the Army. He willingly gave his time, his energy, and ultimately his life for a cause greater than his own. What compels a man to be so selfless? What causes him to live in a way that puts the well-being of others ahead of his own? Whatever the reason, RandolphMacon Academy is deeply honored and forever grateful to have been in the presence of such a man.

31 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Our Alumni

Tributes

Honored friends of Randolph-Macon Academy are listed first in bold print followed by the names of those making gifts in their honor or memory. This list reflects gifts made to R-MA between August 29, 2016, and January 12, 2017. Look in future editions of The Sabre for additional listings.

In honor of the 2020/1970 Partnership Rear Admiral and Mrs. John D. Stufflebeem, USN, Retired ‘70 In memory of Major James G. Adcox Mr. K. John McLelland ‘69 In honor of Tyler Atkinson ‘11 Dr. Sandra Todd-Atkinson and Mr. Tuck Atkinson In honor of Amy Benoit Baca ‘03 Mr. and Mrs. Craig Balbalian In honor of Wylie W. Barrow ‘53 81st Birthday Ms. Marilyn B. Sutherland In memory of Dallas O. Berry ‘59 Mr. and Mrs. Joel F. Etchen In memory of A. Bennett Boulden, Jr. ‘51 Mrs. Mimi F. Boulden Mr. and Mrs. Donald Dudan In honor of Mimi F. Boulden Mrs. Leah R. Dryden Mr. and Mrs. Sergio Barros In honor of The Class of 1970 Rear Admiral and Mrs. John D. Stufflebeem, USN, Retired ‘70 In memory of Harry H. Cummings, Jr. ‘70 Mr. and Mrs. Bernard W. Cline, Jr. ‘70 Mr. and Mrs. James F. Fort, Jr. ‘70 Rear Admiral and Mrs. John D. Stufflebeem, USN, Retired ‘70 In memory of Richard Donak Ms. Patricia L. Burba Mr. and Mrs. Dennis R. Donak, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Fake Dr. and Mrs. Vagn K. Hansen Ms. Patricia Monaghan Ms. Kimberly D. Sampson Mrs. Tonya Turkiewicz Luray High School Class of 1997 In memory of Spencer H. Elmore ‘58 Mr. and Mrs. Richard H. Hoagland, Jr. ‘58

32 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

In honor of Jonathan C. Ezell Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Strother, Jr. ‘58

In memory of H. Manning Peebles ‘39 Mrs. Jean O. Jones

In honor of Eric L. Gatrell ‘65 Mr. Rex A. Friedman ‘65

In honor of Paul Manning Peebles ‘67 Mrs. Jean O. Jones

In honor of Byron C. Gayle, Jr. ‘50 Mr. John M. Thompson, Jr. ‘50

In memory of George Mitchell Tederick, Sr. ‘50 Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Biggs, III

In honor of Major General Henry M. Hobgood, USAF, Retired Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Strother, Jr. ‘58

In memory of Charles H. Thomas ‘37 Dr. Charles W. Thomas ‘61

In memory of Joanne C. Kipp Mr. John R. Kipp, III

In honor of President Donald J. Trump Mr. and Mrs. Munsey A. Moore

In memory of Charles T. Moore Mrs. Betty Forline Mr. and Mrs. David W. Moore, Sr. ‘53 Mr. D. Enoch Moore, II ‘51 Mr. and Mrs. Gary F. Moore Mr. and Mrs. Munsey A. Moore Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Moore, Jr. ‘50

In memory of Colonel Trevor D. Turner, USA, Retired Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Strother, Jr. ‘58

In Memorium

We recall with love and fondness those whose passing we have learned of since the last issue of The Sabre. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families.

Alumni Charles Brewer ‘37 (April 27, 2016) Harry Mitchell ‘39 (September 5, 2016) Herbert Cover ‘41 (December 5, 2016) Hugh Jones ‘49 (October 30, 2016) Robert Bowers ‘50 (December 9, 2016) Charles Smith ‘52 (August 9, 2013) William Boone ‘55 (December 25, 2015) Andrew Brennan ‘55 (June 28, 2016) Spencer Elmore ‘58 (September 12, 2016) John Ayers ‘59 (September 20, 2015)

Dan Price ‘60 (June 9, 2016) George Rife ‘60 (July 4, 2016) A. Leigh Walker ‘65 (November 17, 2015) Douglas Miller ‘66 (January 23, 2016) William Smith ‘66 (November 16, 2016) Harry Cummings ‘70 (December 13, 2016) John P. Burke ‘71 (August 12, 2015) Henry (Jasmine) Harris ‘89 (December 16, 2016) Faculty and Staff Reverend Alan Yeo R-MA Chaplain 2000-2002 (September 4, 2016)

The Society of 1892: The Foundation of the Future The Society of 1892 is comprised of individuals—alumni, parents, and friends—who have included a bequest provision for Randolph-Macon Academy in their estate plans and individuals who have arranged a gift to R-MA via a planned giving vehicle, such as trusts, annuities, and life insurance policies. The individuals who are listed in bold are new members to the Society of 1892.

Mr. Eric D. Anderson ‘88 Anonymous (x3) Mr. J. Douglas Austin ‘79 Mr. Harry G. Austin, III ‘75 Mr. Richard C. Beall ‘53* Mr. Dale W. Becker ‘47 Dr. Richard Belinic Mr. Dallas O. Berry ‘59* Mr. Kent R. Blyler ‘61 and Mrs. Elaine M. Blyler Mr. Warren D. Boyer ‘70 Mr. Harold L. Brubaker* Mr. William J. Bundick ‘52 Mr. James W. Burke ‘58 Lieutenant Colonel Kevin J. Callanan Robert R. Chaffiot ‘51 and Robeana G. Chaffiot Mr. Ray C. Coffman, Jr. ‘51 Dr. C. B. Cook ‘41 Mr. Lawrence H. Cook, Jr. ‘55* Colonel Charles V. Corder, Jr., USAF, Retired ‘53 Mr. W. R. Cosby ‘21* Mr. Rodney E. Deane, Jr. Joseph O. ‘65 and Catherine E. Ecsi Mr. Joseph M. Edge ‘41* Mr. Jay S. Fifer ‘58 and Mrs. Virginia Fifer* Ms. Catherine Foard Fort* Petty Officer 1st Class Charles W. Fretwell ‘79 Mr. Arthur H. Fulton ‘49 Mrs. Ethel R. Garber* Mr. Charles P. Given ‘23* Mr. C. S. Godfrey ‘54 Mr. Edward R. Golob, Jr. ‘65 Mrs. Georgina J. Grant* Mr. Boyd M. Guttery ‘45 Mr. Robert P. Hansen

Dr. Timothy S. Harlan Mr. George W. Helfrich ‘54* Mrs. Ruby T. Hite* Major General Henry M. Hobgood, USAF, Retired Gary L. and Lucy W. Hooper Mr. George C. Hurt, Jr. ‘54* Colonel Arthur D. Johnson, USA, Retired ‘53 Mr. David F. Johnston, Sr. ‘58 Mr. D. Watt Jones, Jr. ‘61 Mr. I. Lewis Jones, III ‘59 Dr. Joseph H. Kite, Jr. Mr. Wendell H. Kline, Jr. ‘88 Mr. Conrad E. Koneczny ‘51 Mr. Jack M. Kump, Jr. ‘69 Mr. Thomas J. LaPlante ‘77 David Wesley Lawrence ‘70 Mr. R. Paul Lawrence ‘87 Mr. and Mrs. Henry D. Light ‘58 Dr. Walter E. Linaweaver, Jr. ‘46* Mr. Franklin P. Long, II ‘52* Mr. and Mrs. James F. Luck, Jr. ‘57 Dr. Frank F. Lusby ‘19* Mr. George S. Lux, Jr. ‘52 Mrs. Judy Markendorff Mr. Joseph M. Mast ‘49 Mr. George D. Mathias ‘54 Mrs. Margaret H. Mathias* Mr. James H. McCormick ‘37* Mr. James S. Meatyard ‘55 Captain Richard I. Merrill, USA, Retired ‘39* Mr. David W. Moore, Sr. ‘53 Mr. Robert A. Moore, Jr. ‘50 Mr. Walter L. Nalls, Jr. ‘56 Mr. John A. Nicodemus ‘57* Lieutenant Colonel David B. Novy, USAF ‘92

Leave a Legacy.

Through gift planning you can leave a legacy at Randolph-Macon Academy so that the mission of educating future generations of students continues.

Perhaps we can assist you and your advisors in developing a gift plan that meets your financial and philanthropic goals.

There are numerous ways to remember R-MA in your estate plans. Two very basic planned gifts are bequests, and insurance or retirement plan beneficiary designations.

Mrs. Helen C. Payne* Mr. Stewart C. Payne ‘18* Mrs. Peggy L. Payne George Tyler Peter ‘55 Reverend George V. Puster, Sr.* Mr. Charles B. Richardson ‘53 Mr. Forrest E. Ricketts, Jr. ‘46* Mr. Richard G. Sheltman ‘22* Mr. Fred W. Shertenlieb ‘29* Mr. Joseph F. Silek, Jr. ‘77 Mr. and Mrs. John D. Simar ‘68 Jay and Helen Smith Mr. Elbert L. Smith ‘30* Mr. Bryant O. Smith, Jr. ‘49* Mr. Edward C. Stevens ‘50* Ms. Sara S. Stolzenberg* Mr. Charles E. Strother, Jr. ‘58 Mr. Robert R. Stuart, III ‘64 Rear Admiral John D. Stufflebeem, USN, Retired ‘70 Dr. Charles B. Swaim ‘77 Mr. William G. Thomas ‘57 Mr. Thomas H. Trant ‘71 Colonel Trevor D. Turner, USA, Retired* and Mrs. Lois Turner Mrs. Elsie S. Upchurch Mr. A. Leigh Walker, Jr. ‘65* Mr. John S. M. Wayland ‘48 Brigadier General David C. Wesley, USAF, Retired Mr. Beverly B. Williams ‘53* Mr. Michael S. Williams H‘17 P‘20 Colonel Arvin S. Williams, USAF, Retired* Mr. Thomas F. Williamson ‘58* *Assembled for the Final Roll Call

If you desire to make a gift and receive an income as well, then charitable gift annuities and charitable trusts are two ways to provide benefits for both you and R-MA. Alumni and friends who remember R-MA in their estate plans are invited to join the Society of 1892, R-MA’s planned giving recognition club. To further explore the benefits of gift planning, or to answer any questions, please call Jay Smith, Director of Planned Giving and Alumni Outreach, at (540)636-5343 or email him at jsmith@rma.edu.

33 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Our Alumni

Class of 1970 Reaches Out to Class of 2020

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21, Director of Public Relations It is a somewhat unusual sight: grayhaired men traveling around campus with freshmen to complete a scavenger hunt, bringing donuts for hungry cadets, and eating pizza, all while listening, encouraging, and sharing. This is the 20/70 Partnership of Randolph-Macon Academy, through which the Class of 1970 has chosen to come spend time on campus with the Class of 2020, to

Abelkop experienced the same. “For those I am engaged with, the response has been nothing but positive. As with any young adult, some are more outgoing than others - and these women and men are easy to communicate with and one knows how receptive or not they are. Others take a bit more time of interaction to feel comfortable, willing to reach out to discuss, ask questions, etc.”

The students have indeed enjoyed the

problem,” he pointed out.

“Each Class of 2020 student has an outside resource to email, call, talk with when on campus who has lived in their shoes, [who] knows how it feels to be a studentcadet at R-MA and has the ability to listen and provide guidance, when asked,” Abelkop expounded.

For Wreath, the partnership is definitely headed in that direction. “I have talked about how they survived life at R-MA along with

forge friendships that span the generations.

The idea originated from John Stufflebeem ’70, who brought in the concept from the Naval Academy’s program called “Link in the Chain,” with the idea that they are “linking” alumni classes back to currently enrolled classes. When visiting his niece for her graduation in 2015, he found that her high school was running a similar program.

So he brought the idea forward to his R-MA classmates, who embraced it readily.

Stufflebeem described the idea as “the notion of us reaching back 50 years and offering to just be there or to mentor or whatever it is we could do to help their experience while they are here at RandolphMacon Academy. The only thing we ask is that they consider doing the same 50 years hence.”

Bill Abelkop ’70, who is chairing the venture, explained, “From our initial Class of 1970 discussions on how we could help R-MA, many of us felt we wanted to give more of our time and effort besides just writing checks.”

According to Jim Fort ’70, the program began the first day the students arrived on campus, when they participated in an R-MA scavenger hunt, accompanied by a member of the Class of 1970. “They sent off a senior, a bunch of freshmen, and us,” he explained.

“That was a lot of fun. There were a couple of them that, even in that little setting, I started to make a connection.”

interaction across the spectrum. “I have loved to hear all of the wonderful and interesting stories about the alumni's lives after R-MA. Also, hearing about all of the mischievous things they did while at R-MA is amusing,” said Taylor Wreath ’20.

Knowing that people tend to relax and talk more when they are centered around a meal, the Class of 1970 has included some sort of food in almost all of their activities.

In addition to the donuts they brought for registration, they enjoyed a pizza dinner with the cadets (after completing the scavenger hunt), they had breakfast with the Class of 2020 during Fall Family Day (and brought donuts again!), and attended the Christmas Candlelight Service and Christmas Banquet.

At the end of January, the group invited the younger cadets to attend dinner.

“We hope that as we learn together— which means the school, the [freshman] class, and our class—that it will maybe build a model that other classes will want to pick up,” said Stufflebeem. He added that the ultimate goal would be to help anchor the relationship between the class of 2020 and R-MA. The three members, along with classmate Bernie Cline, also hope that the students will find value in the insight alumni can offer by virtue of their R-MA experiences. Fort said that specifically, he hoped the students would understand that they are not alone.

“You’re not the first one to have an issue or a

what important experiences and lessons they still carry with them,” she said. “This program is a great idea because it makes the students feel that they are a part of a bigger family. They are able to learn about what R-MA was like in the past, and have a fun time with the alumni.”

Stufflebeem said, “One of the things we hope will develop in the relationship is a comfortability, for any one of them who comes to a difficult time at school [to be] willing to reach out to us to say, ‘Hey, you know, can I just talk to somebody?’ or ‘Can I just talk to you?’ It’s going to take time to develop that relationship. My expectation is that this is a four-year relationship, or a lifetime relationship.”

The Class of 1970 treated approximately 20 members of the Class of 2020 to dinner at Melting Pot on January 28, 2017. They are also sponsoring an essay contest for the class. More information about these activities is available on www.rma.edu.

34 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Three thoroughbreds were donated to the Academy in 1967. They were sold at the Hialeah sale in January 1968 for $33,000. The proceeds were used for dormitory furnishings.

#RandomacFacts

Yellow Jackets Roll to Patriot Conference Title

by Cooper Bourdon '11, Communications Asssistant The 2016 Randolph-Macon Academy football team experienced a great amount of success this past fall. The Yellow Jackets finished with a record of 6-3 and brought home the Patriot Conference Football Championship. They had 12 players receive 1st Team AllConference awards along with the Offensive Conference Player of the Year, Alex Ndongo-Seh ’17.

The leadership both on and off the field was crucial to the success of the season. Individuals were held accountable not just for their performance and work ethic while playing, but in the classrooms and dorms as well. If somebody did not turn in a homework assignment, he could expect a teammate to inquire as to why he made such a decision. If somebody’s grades were slipping in a certain subject, he would find himself in the library or the dorm room of a teammate receiving help.

There were many other factors that played a role in this season’s success. The skill position players were a crucial and exceptional lot who swung the momentum towards the black and yellow numerous times. They were detrimental to the opposition week in and week out. Wide receivers combined for 98 receptions, 1,728 yards, and 23 touchdowns while the running backs combined for 1,398 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Every play had the potential to be a touchdown in such an efficient spread offense. If the holes weren’t opening up for the run, then quarterback Corban Ruch ‘17 and his receivers would launch an assault on the defense through the air. If the passing game was not moving the chains, then running back Jeffrey Collins ‘17 and his offensive line would pound the ball between the tackles.

The offensive and defensive lines stepped up in a big way as well. “At first I wasn’t sure how they would do, but they worked well with each other and played as a unit,” said Head Coach Frank Sullivan P’20, ’23. “They didn’t make every play, but they always gave the other team plenty to handle.”

Many of the players agreed with their head coach. Middle linebacker and co-captain Alex Blell ’17, a.k.a. “The Sheriff,” commented, “They exceeded my expectations… but our whole team was like that. We had a genuine belief in ourselves and our abilities.” Blell

Jeffrey Collins '17 was honored with the Most Improved Award for the season.

continued, “We worked hard every day and always tried to get better.

We pushed each other by creating matchups in our drills that benefited both guys. We were all about constant improvement and being a better player than we were the day before.”

The mental improvement of the team was important to Sullivan.

“They’ve always been athletic kids, but they stepped up as leaders and conducted themselves in a positive way,” said Sullivan. “It is nice to see the other team arguing amongst themselves in a close game while our guys are playing with an attitude that says, ‘We’ve got this.’” Outside linebacker Nkeng Morfaw ’17 elaborated on this type of attitude by saying, “We made it a point to be able to bounce back.

It didn’t matter if there were twenty minutes or two minutes left on See "Football," next page

Above is Coaches’ Award winner and co-captain Alex Blell ’17.

At right, quarterback Corban Ruch ’17 (also pictured above right) gets ready to make a pass in the final game of the season.

35 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Yellow Jackets

Alex Ndongo-Seh '17 Named Player of the Year

by Cooper Bourdon '11, Communications Assistant Anyone who knows Alex Ndongo-Seh ’17 will tell you his love for the sport of football is unconditional. He has been a member of the R-MA football team since his eighth grade year, and by his senior year was arguably the hardest worker on the team. His diligent work ethic, in the end, certainly paid off.

Ndongo-Seh had a spectacular senior season, racking up numerous awards and recognitions. He was named Most Valuable Player on the R-MA football team, 1st Team All-Conference at wide receiver and defensive back, and the Patriot Football Conference Offensive Player of the Year. That, however, is only a piece of the pie. He was also 1st Team All-State at wide-receiver and punt returner, 1st Offensive All-Area Team at wide receiver, and he led all other wide receivers in the area with 37 receptions, 882 yards, 23.8 yards per catch, and 17 touchdowns. It was a terrific season for the young man on the football field, but it was all put in motion when he was off the field.

Ndongo-Seh attended R-MA’s summer school program this past July and came in with laser focus. During the school day it was all about the books, but as soon as the bell rang he would head to the weight room. Outside of lifting weights, the All-State wide receiver would practice running routes with his quarterback, Corban Ruch ’17, and put a heavy emphasis on his footwork. He also ran defensive end drills with his teammate, 1st Team All-Conference and 2nd Team AllState defensive end, Tanyi Makia ’17. “Defensive ends have to get around or across offensive tackles with their hands just like I do for defensive backs,” he explained. “It helped me out a lot.”

Ndongo-Seh considered the difference between his junior and senior seasons “a really big jump.” “I felt like I could have done more my junior year, but I wasn’t confident,” admitted Ndongo-Seh. “But

Football, continued from previous page the clock, we were always in it.” Cornerback Austin Davis ’17 added, “We always tried our best to play the next down and to play it as a team.”

The highlight of the season, for the majority of the players, was the St. Anne’s-Belfield (STAB) game. “That game was huge,” said free safety Joe Leichsenring ’17. “It gave us a lot of momentum for the rest of our season and a lot of confidence after a tough loss to Potomac.” It was a come-from-behind victory that left STAB stunned on their own field, and it meant the world to some players. “That was an incredible feeling,” said Davis. “I have never been a part of something like that. It was special.”

This Yellow Jacket football team had that “it factor” whenever they took the field. They surprised a lot of folks with a confidence and swagger that most of their opponents could not match. They played with a resilience and tenacity that kept the opposition on their toes and, eventually, on their heels. The most admirable part of this team was the players' never-say-die attitude. Every second was played with the belief that they could do something, at any moment, to win the game. Even when it seemed as if nothing could go right for them, they put it on themselves to do the work and make it a ball game.

36 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

when you take time to actually put in hours of work, when you give up your free time to get better, then you go into a game thinking ‘I know I can do this’ and the game becomes a lot slower.” He had one drill in particular that was quite peculiar. For about a week he would juggle iPhones over hardwood floor! “I did it to help my awareness,” he explained. “Plus if I dropped it, then I wouldn’t get another one. So there was pressure to it.”

The Patriot Conference Player of the Year accomplished almost all of the goals he set for himself before the season. “I had a piece of paper with everything I wanted to do this season,” he said. “I wanted to be 185 lbs, I did that; I wanted to bench 235 lbs, I did that; I wanted 20 touchdowns, I was off by three; I wanted to be Conference Player of the Year, I did that; and I wanted to be 1st Team All-State, and I did that.”

His personal success is no secret, but he felt blessed to be surrounded by his teammates. “This is the most close-knit team I have played on in my four years at R-MA by far. Everyone knew their role, we had fun, and we were competitive. Edmund [Loolo ‘18] was always pushing me in practice. We had a lot of fun as a team and that’s what is important,” he reflected. Ndongo-Seh encourages the underclassmen to not wait too long to push themselves to get better.

“I feel like I could have been way better if I had done my freshman, sophomore, and junior years like I did my senior year,” he said.

Ndongo-Seh is not done with football and plans to play in college. He hopes to be accepted to James Madison University and play on their football team, whether it is as a walk-on or as a recruit.

Middle School and Varsity Golf Players Learn Together The lack of competition in the local area put a crimp in the middle school golf program, but it didn't halt it.

Instead, R-MA Golf Coach Bill Curl '66 took the opportunity to create a different type of program.

“For the past two years we have combined the Upper School and Middle School players and played both 6-8 grade students as well as high school teams,” he said. “We call it an intramural but we have more matches and better competition.

Everyone gets to play and it helps the younger kids by having an older peer helping them during practice and matches. I try to have an older player and a young player go out together as a group. This enables the younger kids to learn by playing.”

The added practice for the varsity players is also important, as in the spring, they will head out to begin their competitive play in the Delaney Athletic Conference.

Fall Sports Awards Varsity Soccer

Coaches' Award

MVP

Coaches' Award Lucas Costa '17 Coaches' Award Liana Trupiano '19

Varsity Girls' Tennis

Edwin Ikhinmwin '17

Samson Jiya '19

Most Improved Tianyi Sun '19

MVP

Victoria Voellm '18

Varsity Boys' Cross Country

JV Fo

o

l l a tb

Ho Tin Cheng '18

Most Improved Kobi Okafor '19

Coaches' Award

Ian Whalen '18 Coaches' Award Jonathan Bunker '20

MVP

Varsity Girls' Cross Country

Most Improved

Meseret Abeel '18

Most Improved

Morgan Sauter '17

37 The Sabre ď ˇ WINTER/SPRING 2017

Yellow Jackets

Most Improved

Coaches' Award

MVP

JV Soccer Nathaniel Chichester '19

Middle School s y s o r r t n C ou C

Middle School l l ba y e l l Vo

Middle School Soccer

Darrell Campbell '19

Coaches' Award

Most Improved

Bernie Luan '21

Matthew Foreman '22

Most Improved

Coaches' Award

Jessalyn Brooks '21 Most Improved Michael Patten '21

MVP

Danny Peterson '21 MVP

Jotrina Vamboi '21

Lily Grossman '21 MVP

Coaches' Award

Kaelen Starrs '21 38 The Sabre ď ˇ WINTER/SPRING 2017

Emmett Heeg '18

Luke Habiby '21

Ben Schoonover '17: R-MA's Own “Running Man"

by Celeste Brooks P'12, '21, Director of Public Relations Ben Schoonover ’17 is an old-timer around R-MA. When his mother, Lynne, started teaching at R-MA in the fall of 2009, Schoonover was only in the fifth grade, but the family got permission for him to enter R-MA that year anyway. As a result, he spent four years at R-MA Middle School, not because he failed courses, but just because it was what his family felt was best for him.

Upon his arrival at R-MA, Schoonover did not seem to be the athletic type, and indeed, it wasn’t until the end of his freshman year that he decided he was going to start running. “It felt like the right thing to do,” he said with a small smile.

It wasn’t easy, but although Schoonover pushed himself, he didn’t rush the process. He started running on the track, running a mile until he felt comfortable with it, then increasing his distance to two miles, then three. “I started to deviate when I was doing six miles a day,” he recalled. “I realized it was time to change things up.”

When he was “slogging out two miles” (to use his description), the R-MA track coaches took notice of the young man who was running on his own time, and they started urging him to join the track and field team. But something held him back.

“I did something funky to my hip flexors and I couldn’t even walk for a week,” he said. “I was on crutches after that, then was able to walk with a cane.”

Once he had recovered, Schoonover was almost back to square one, working his endurance back up slowly over time. “I didn’t do well my first season,” he said. “I was still very new to it all. You don’t see a crazy improvement until you’ve been doing it for a while and you have a really solid running base.”

From then on, however, Schoonover was hooked. He competed at school during every track and cross country season, and joined the Shenandoah Valley Runners Club Winter Series, competing in 5K races and a 15-miler over the course of the winter. In his junior year, he began competing in half-marathons.

“You rarely see high school runners with Ben’s combination of dedication, competitiveness, and grit,” said his track and cross country coach, Josh Ilnicki. “We have a hill near Boggs Chapel that we run some of our practices on. The previous record for the number of those repeat hills during one practice was 20, held by Jake Branham [Class of 2016]. Ben decided he wanted to not just beat that record, he wanted to obliterate it, so that no one could ever come close to it. He now holds the record—33 repeat hills in one practice.”

That’s not the only record Schoonover has to be proud of. He was also named MVP of the team this past fall. His best varsity cross country 5K time is 19:55, which he ran at the state meet at Fork Union Military Academy. Outside of school, it is 19:46, accomplished

after some time off due to a foot injury and illness. He ran the North Face Endurance Challenge Series amidst rain that caused mud so slippery he and the other runners had to grab onto trees to get up the hill—Schoonover finished 10th out of 800 people, and first in his age group. He completed the Marine Corps Half-Marathon and while he doesn’t remember his place, he remembers that he ran a sub-7-minute-mile pace. Then there was the Army Ten-Miler in Washington, DC, where he finished among the top 400 runners out of more than thirty thousand runners.

Running is not the only thing at which this young man excels.

He is the Parliamentarian for the National Honor Society, President of the National English Honor Society, and a member of both the National Social Studies Honor Society and the National German Honor Society. His name can usually be found on the President’s List—although he might have slipped to the Dean’s List once or twice—and he has already been accepted to the University of Oregon, the University of North Carolina at Asheville, and the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

In spite of how busy he is, Schoonover has had the time to help others with their running questions, and he takes delight in doing so. He has fielded questions from not only his fellow high school students, but also alumni who have come back to him for advice. “I still have a lot to learn, but I try my best to help them,” he said. “I gain a great deal of satisfaction, knowing that I’ve helped them on their journey.”

Additional Football Honors In addition to the school-level awards, many R-MA football players distinguished themselves within the Patriot Football Conference and/or at the state level:

Patriot Football Conference

Alex Ndongo-Seh '17, Offensive Player of the Year, 1st Team Defensive Back, 1st Team Punt Returner, 1st Team Wide Receiver Alex Blell '17, 1st Team Offense Athlete & 1st Team Defense Linebacker Jeffrey Collins '17, 1st Team Running Back SoSo Eke-Spiff '17, 1st Team Wide Receiver Corban Ruch '17, 1st Team Quarterback Gery You-Ghosal '17, 1st Team Offensive Lineman Dennis Ponn '17, 1st Team Offensive Lineman Miles Gilmore '17, 1st Team Linebacker Edmund Loolo '18, 1st Team Defensive Back Austin Davis '17, 1st Team Defensive Back Tanyi Makia '17, 1st Team Defensive Lineman Luel Mekonnen '18, 1st Team Defensive Lineman

All-State Football

Alex Ndongo-Seh '17, 1st Team Wide Receiver Alex Ndongo-Seh '17, 1st Team Punt Returner Corban Ruch '17, 2nd Team Quarterback Tanyi Makia '17, 2nd Team Defensive Lineman Edmund Loolo '18, 2nd Team Defensive Back Alex Blell '17, Honorable Mention Linebacker

39 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

Yellow Jackets

Varsity Girls’ Volleyball Earns DAC Runner-Up Honors

by Cooper Bourdon '11, Communications Assistant R-MA frequently has a competitive girls’ varsity volleyball team. It seems they are always in the hunt for the Delaney Athletic Conference (DAC) championship year in and year out. This year was a great result for the Yellow Jackets, as they snatched the the DAC Runner-Up title. Despite their ultimate success, however, some players felt a level of uncertainty going into the 2016 season for several reasons. First reason: their setter from the 2015 season graduated last year along with their libero, two vital roles on the volleyball court. The second: there were a number of new girls on the team, and anybody who has played volleyball understands the importance of team chemistry and communication.

On top of losing two of their star players while gaining complete strangers, they received a new head coach during the off-season as Jeff Moxie stepped into the position, but it turned out to be a painless transition for the team.

“Playing for coach Moxie is great because he thinks like a player,” said Anastacia Chineme ’18. “He doesn’t only think like a player, but communicates to us like one as well, which makes it much easier to understand what he wants from us.”

The girls play hard for their coach and always put their fair share of work in, but they know how to have a good time, too. The team’s Most Valuable Player, Julia Norton ’17, commented, “We really enjoyed practice and always had Coaches' Award recipient Katelyn a good time. Whether we Ponn ’18 sets the ball while Anastacia were playing ‘Queen of Chineme ’17 prepares for the hit. the Court,’ scrimmaging the Falcon Scholars, or working on our sets, we always made it fun.” The Coaches’ Award recipient, Katelyn Ponn ’18, agreed with her teammate. “We worked hard, but we liked to goof around and have fun too.”

The Lady Yellow Jackets had a regular season conference record of 9-2 with their only two losses coming against Chelsea Academy.

“They had this one girl who was just really good,” said Norton. Any of the girls will tell you that a road game at Chelsea is a lot to handle.

Moxie explained, “That is a loud Mikayla Reifert '17 was home-crowd and a good atmosphere named the Most Improved for Chelsea.

It is tough to get a win Player for fall 2017.

40 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

there.”

The Lady Jackets' 9-2 conference record awarded them home-court advantage for the quarter and semifinals of the playoffs. The semi-final match against Tandem Friends was a big one for the Yellow Jackets.

“Tandem, in every sport, is a big rival of ours,” said Norton. “They are passionate, aggressive, and competitive just like us. I wanted to win that game more than anything.” Norton and her teammates received what she was hoping for as they defeated Tandem three sets to one. Their next stop would be the DAC championship game against… you guessed it, Chelsea Academy.

“We came out flat in that game and never picked MVP Julia Norton '17 shows off her it up,” said Moxie. “That intimidating serve. was a tough loss.” The girls were defeated three sets to none, but were able to find the silver lining in their season. “It was a build on last year,” said Moxie. The Yellow Jackets lost to Tandem in the semi-finals of the 2015 season and did not advance to the championship. This year they met the same team in the same round and came out on top.

Perhaps next year will be their year to bring the DAC home to “The Hill” in Front Royal, Virginia. Ponn feels confident they will as she smiled saying, “We’re going to be the dream team, just wait.”

Athletic Honors The following student athletes received All-Conference honors within the Delaney Athletic Conference for their performance during the fall 2016 season:

Volleyball

Julia Norton '17, 1st Team Kate Ponn '18, 1st Team Anastacia Chineme '18, 2nd Team Kimberly Pitts '18, 2nd Team

Soccer

Edwin Ikhinmwin '17, 1st Team Samson Jiya '19, 1st Team Ryan Latham '18, 2nd Team Seonwoo Chung '17, Honorable Mention

Tennis

Liana Trupiano '19, 1st Team

41 The Sabre  WINTER/SPRING 2017

The Sabre

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Mark your calendar for

Randolph-Macon Academy’s 125th Anniversary Celebration Events!

125th Anniversary Gala

April 8, 2017

Founder’s Weekend

April 28-30, 2017

A special, black tie optional, celebration at Westwood Country Club in Vienna, Virginia, with guest speaker SSG Travis Mills, USA, Retired, author of the bestselling novel Tough As They Come.

Athletic events, the Spring Concert, a 5K Run, a Chapel Service, and a Community Celebration with activities, games, and entertainment for the entire family!

125th Graduating Class May 27, 2017 Community Service Day September 11, 2017 125th Homecoming October 6-8, 2017 For more information, visit www.rma.edu/anniversary