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THE MAKING OF THE COVER PHOTO To create the all-school “75” photo in commemoration of 75 years of Second Baptist School, AB Calculus BC students put their heads together. With advanced calculations and a full team effort, the 75th anniversary field photo was realized. Scan here to watch the making of the cover photo.
Second Baptist School 6410 Woodway Drive Houston, Texas 77057 secondbaptistschool.org
Established in 1946, SBS provides a worldclass education for the leaders of tomorrow. SBS is a learning community for over 1,000 students (PK-12) who enjoy a breadth of educational opportunities – from customized learning experiences to travel exposure to technological advancement. Nurtured by a Christ-centered community that edifies the soul and an academically rigorous environment that enriches the mind, SBS graduates are armed with the character, confidence and capability needed to succeed in the world they confront in the 21st century.
Our Mission
The mission of Second Baptist School is to equip students to think critically, live biblically and lead courageously to impact the world for Jesus Christ.
Our Passion
Our passion is to bring every student into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ while equipping them to do with excellence that which God has called them to do.
Honor Code
As a member of the Second Baptist School community, I will not lie, cheat or steal; I will do my best to exemplify Christlike integrity in my academic and personal endeavors and encourage others to act accordingly. The Eagle is published by the Office of Communications and is mailed free of charge to students, parents, faculty, alumni and friends of Second Baptist School. For more information call (713) 365-2310 or visit our website at secondbaptistschool.org. Disclaimer: Second Baptist School makes every effort to ensure that all names and listings are accurate and complete. If a name has been omitted, misspelled or listed incorrectly, please accept our sincerest apologies.
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Content LETTER FROM HEAD OF SCHOOL CAMPUS NEWS HOMECOMING 2021 INTERIM TERM ARTS NEWS HELLO, DOLLY! THE ARTS CELEBRATE THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETICS NEWS UPPER SCHOOL ATHLETICS NEWS SBS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP BASEBALL TEAM
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SBS 1982-2021 GRADUATES 75TH ANNIVERSARY TIMELINE A LIVING LEGACY SBS LEGACY LIGHTS CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2022 COMMENCEMENT 2022 CLASS OF 2022 BY THE NUMBERS SECOND GENERATION FAMILIES ALUMNI NOTES FUTURE EAGLES CLUB PROFILES 20 QUESTIONS WITH CLASS OF 1982
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LETTER FROM HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear SBS Family, This year, Second Baptist School celebrated 75 years of God’s faithfulness and the great legacy of this community. We recognize Christ at the center of all we do, seeing how each program, class, and activity is rooted in the truth of God’s Word and designed to instill important values in the hearts and minds of our students. In 1946, long before Christian education was popular, a group of believers had a vision of training their children up in the knowledge and admonition of the Lord. With humble beginnings, Second Baptist School opened its doors to fourteen kindergarten students. The school you experience today is a result of decades of sacrifice and commitment by faculty, staff, students and parents. We stand on the shoulders of these giants – men and women, families, students and teachers who came before us – and we honor their faithfulness by remaining steadfast in our commitment to Christ-honoring excellence. I am humbled to see all God has done, is doing, and will continue to do at Second Baptist School. I believe our future is bright. A new children’s education building is emerging on our campus. Enrollment continues to grow with waitlists in multiple grade levels. At a time when many families were searching for new educational options, we launched Second Baptist School University-Model on three campuses, expanding Christian education throughout the greater Houston area. Each year, we will continue pursuing new levels of innovation in academics, athletics, and arts as we inspire and encourage students to explore and develop their God-given talents. Daily, I am reminded that Second Baptist School belongs to God, and we are the faithful stewards of His calling and His ministry. I count it one of the great privileges of my life to serve our pastor and this incredible community. Enjoy this edition of the Eagle magazine as we take you on our yearlong journey of celebration! To God be the glory!
Dr. Don Davis Head of School
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CAMPUS ARTS ATHLETICS NEWS 75TH ANNIVERSARY 2022
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Be the Difference – Our 75th Year
As Second Baptist School celebrates seventy-five years in Christian education, students arrive on campus for the first day of school and Convocation ushers in a new school year. Eager students arrived on campus on a warm August morning, from the youngest Eagles starting pre-kindergarten 3, to the newly minted seniors, ready to begin a brand new school year with fresh haircuts, backpacks and school supplies. Teachers smiled broadly as parents walked young students to their new classrooms and friends old and new greeted one another, a joyous display of community. The whole school was abuzz with that classic first-day feel. To most students, it was a normal first day, but for Second Baptist School, it was the seventy-fifth first day. Seventy-five years ago, a small group of educators and fourteen students gathered for the inaugural year of Second Baptist School. Did they know that seventy-five years later we’d be opening our doors to over 1,000 students, faculty and staff members? Or, as alumna and SBS parent Becca Schwinger ’89 asked in Convocation, “Did they know that these halls would be where future leaders and innovators would be formed?” For seventy-five years, Second Baptist School has partnered with parents. For seventy-five years, Second Baptist School has provided an education in Houston that unapologetically honors the Lord. For seventy-five years, Christ has been honored as young people are
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led to the Lord through dedicated teachers, coaches and a faithful school community. As we enter this monumental year, Head of School Dr. Don Davis proclaimed our 2021-2022 school year theme, Be the Difference. Four seniors, Kendall Felton, Grace Lunsford, Jett Motley and Patrick Elder, introduced Convocation with a beautiful song, proclaiming boldly, “It’s time for us to do something.” Do something. Be someone. Be the Difference. In the Worship Center filled with students, parents and faculty, Head Fellow Charley Schwinger ’23 and Head Prefect Danielle Tackett ’22 gave meaningful speeches, inspiring their fellow students to serve through encouraging others and to embrace being different. Danielle shared it is our faith that sets us apart at SBS, saying, “A different school honors each other through service. Let us be known for representing Jesus first. Let us be a community that’s different, one who cares for one another and stands for Christ.” This year, SBS is not only celebrating seventy-five years but also opening three University-Model campuses around Houston, launching a campaign for a new lower school building and embarking on a strategic plan to impact students. Even more than that, each and every one of our students will experience excellent Christian education, a caring community and, it is our hope and prayer, a saving relationship with Jesus Christ that empowers them to Be the Difference in Houston and the world. #SBSdifference
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Hope for Moms – Praying Together
Alumni parent Tonya Riggle shares a powerful message about prayer with SBS moms. Tonya Riggle greeted Second Baptist School moms with instant connection, saying, “I’m a mom of a former SBS student, so I really do know you.” A collective exhale was felt in the room as moms felt genuinely seen and heard. “We travel this road together as moms. Days can be up and down, but the whole picture is so good,” encouraged Tonya. She continued, “There will be things you can control and things you can’t. Prayer is the answer to the lack of control.” As Tonya described her experience with Gatekeepers, the community of praying women at Second Baptist School, open to any SBS mom, she emphasized the power of praying for our children together. For where two or more are gathered, God promises to hear our prayers. “Simple words asked of God translate into power in His Kingdom,” shares Tonya. “Power multiplies as prayers multiply.”
He will always be faithful.
Matthew 19:13 says, “Then the people brought their little children to Jesus so that he could put his hands on them and pray for them.” Parents, in community, brought their children to Jesus. As a group, they presented their children before the Lord. Tonya encouraged moms to do the same, to come together and bring their children before Jesus, knowing He will listen, for “when we bring our children to Jesus to be touched and prayed over, He will always be faithful.” Tonya ends, “It takes a village, but unless that village is praying, it will be off-course.” In sharing her own experience as a praying mom, she exhorts, “We took each other’s kids in as our own. We saw God move through winning and honor and through losing and shame. We saw Him move through joy and tragedy.” When we pray, He listens. “Remember, nothing has power like prayer.”
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Engineering in Enrichment Second graders were challenged to think critically in Enrichment class with a team-centric engineering project. If you walked past Mrs. Hall’s class, you might have stopped to take a second look at what her busy second graders were doing. Marshmallows, spaghetti, toothpicks – are these the tools of engineers? For these imaginative students, they are! In Mrs. Hall’s Enrichment class, kindergarten through second grade students develop 21st century skills, and classroom content is enhanced for higher-level learning. In this case, second graders were challenged to build a bridge using the Engineering Design Process. To introduce the project, the students watched a video on the basics of bridges. Then, Mrs. Hall explained their challenge and split students into teams to brainstorm and sketch their plans. Once they were ready, they used dry spaghetti, marshmallows, toothpicks, Dixie cups, straws and paper clips to create a bridge. Using unique materials and an out-of-the-box challenge, students interacted with a real-world situation. Mrs. Hall explained how this project fostered thinking critically in many different ways. “Students applied their real-world knowledge of bridges to design their sketch. Then they collaborated with teammates by listening and sharing ideas in order to determine which ideas would work best for this challenge.” She continued, “When a design did not work, students learned from their failure by rethinking the design in order to solve the problem.” This hands-on lesson ended with reflection, an important skill for learners of all ages. The second graders thought back on the challenge, what worked and what didn’t, what was hard and what was easy, using critical thinking to apply what they had learned. These students may never look at marshmallows and spaghetti the same way again!
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Class of 2022 Senior Retreat By: Student Life Prefect Cameron Kelley ’22 The senior class kicked off their year with the annual Senior Retreat, a cherished SBS tradition since 1988. Seniors spent two days at Stoney Creek Ranch where they grew together as a class and garnered excitement for the final lap in their high school careers. Kick-Starting Senior Year In a class of only 95 students, we have already formed bonds over important classroom conversations, challenging courses, enduring friendships and competition on the field in powderpuff; however, it is at Senior Retreat where our class was reminded of the community we have built with each other over the past three years. Nostalgia quickly set in as the retreat began with showing a video recounting our retreat freshman year. Although we were sitting in similar seats, at the same place, we laughed as we recognized how much we have changed over the years. SBS has developed the brace-faced, uncertain freshmen into confident seniors prepared to take on whatever this year throws our way. Following the video, we played games such as college trivia and “guess the SBS Lifer” based on drawings and responses saved from initial admissions interviews. Then, we listened in seminars as we were taught necessary information for college and were encouraged by reminders for our senior year. Finally, we played a number of sports and went swimming in our free time. These activities helped to form deeper friendships, develop important knowledge and bring joy and a break in the stressful college application process. For me, the retreat was an incredible opportunity to kick-start senior year on the right foot, with the right mindset alongside some of my very best friends!
This famous "rock talk " paired with stargazing the night before helped comfort us in the security of God ’s mighty power and plan for each of our lives.
Some Things Never Change Senior retreat represents 33 years worth of time-honored traditions and although this year’s trip was in a new location, many things remained the same. Senior Bible teacher, affectionately known as Simo, presented each student with an Ebenezer rock, explaining that the rocks were physical reminders of God’s presence (1 Samuel 7). This famous “rock talk” paired with stargazing the night before helped comfort us in the security of God’s mighty power and plan for each of our lives. Moreover, we received letters from our loved ones with their hopes for our senior year. The touching letters overwhelmingly filled my classmates and me with gratitude. Gratitude for our parents and the lessons they have shared with us. Gratitude for our faculty and staff and the love they have poured upon us. But most of all, gratitude to have grown up in the SBS community, engulfed in an unwavering support system, encompassed by hope and enveloped by those who genuinely want to see us succeed. In 75 years, a lot has changed at SBS, but the core principle of a community united under a Christian education remains. And for that, the senior class is grateful. To close out the retreat, a teacher or administrator prayed individually over each student, and then it was time to pack up our bags and head home. As I reflect on the retreat and think about entering my final year of high school, I could not ask for a better class, better teachers or a better family to share it with.
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Community Shines at SBS
There’s no better place to see the SBS community living out our core values than during Friday night football games. The Second Baptist School community shines brightest under the lights of the Athletic Fields – families gather to engage with each other on the playground, near the food trucks, in the stands and on the field. This small-town feel in a big city is replicated throughout the year at SBS through the various opportunities offered in arts, athletics and division level programming – giving each student the opportunity to fulfill the mission of SBS within a caring community. On September 17 for the game versus Cypress Christian, the Office of Admissions encouraged the SBS community to invite friends, neighbors and family to Friday Night Lights. Guests in attendance were given free entry to the game as well as Chick-fil-A meal tickets. The Future Eagles Club, Dads Club, arts department, advancement department and academic team alongside the college guidance department hosted tables with engaging activities for families to learn more about the mission of SBS. Director of Admissions Andrea Prothro shared, “There’s no better place to see the SBS community living out our core values than during Friday night football games. Students and parents come together to fellowship with each other while expressing their school spirit. We enjoyed getting to share our SBS family with prospective families.” To further the pre-game excitement, SBS cheerleaders and Golden Girls hosted our inaugural Spirit Clinic, combining both cheer and
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dance into an energized afternoon with first through sixth graders learning jumps and moves from our talented dance and cheer teams. Prior to kick-off, our future cheerleaders and Golden Girls performed their newly learned skills on the football field. Golden Girls Coach Madelyn Whitehead stated, “We had over 100 girls sign up, and they were excited to be given the opportunity to showcase their talents to the crowd! The best part about hosting this clinic was the opportunity the upper schoolers had to build relationships with younger girls and mentor them through their love of cheer and dance.” SBS parents also appreciate the chance to participate in a schoolwide event alongside their children and other families. Current SBS parent Rebecca Knapp shares, “My girls always have so much fun doing these clinics. I love that they get to work with the older girls. SBS has added so much value to the school by including the littles in these clinics.” To top off the evening, the SBS athletics department hosted Youth Football Night. The first 50 kindergarten through sixth grade students to arrive received an SBS football. All participants, under the direction of SBS football players and coaches, had a chance to hone their skills and feel like part of the team. Director of Athletics Mike Walker shared that “it is important for young men to be given opportunities to excel in sports at a young age so they can develop their God-given talents and exceed their potential.”
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Living Biblically Impacts Our Caring Community
Prayer Partners At SBS, the caring community begins and ends with a gospel focus, as students learn what it means to live biblically from pre-kindergarten all the way through their senior year and beyond. Our caring community grows and nurtures students as mentors from their elementary school years; as they learn to live biblically, they learn to pay it forward. It begins with prayer partners in the lower school, where PK4 students are assigned fourth grade prayer partners, kindergarteners matched with second graders and first with third. Lower school Bible teacher Ashley Corbin says, “We purposefully have a few years in age difference as this is also used as a Christian mentor program in which students forge genuine friendships.” Mrs. Corbin explains, “As you move to a new grade, you are assigned a new prayer partner. As a result, you may have multiple students on campus who you know and pray for. This helps bring the classes closer, and it grows our community.”
As prayer partners, “students learn how powerful prayer is and how comforting it is to know someone is praying for you,” Mrs. Corbin continues. This program “takes the focus off of self,” teaching students to think about others and grow in compassion. “When our prayer partner shares a prayer request, we bring it to God. What a great way to show our love for one another and practice living biblically.” Mrs. Corbin summarizes, “Praying draws us closer to God, which is what we want for all of our students!” The caring community and impact of biblical teaching extend beyond the walls of SBS. Alumna Hailie Durrett ’09 remembers her prayer partner fondly and still stays in touch. She says, “The prayer partner program at SBS is one of my favorite traditions. Meeting Jodi Hatton Causey ’06 when I was a first grader had a lasting impact on me.” She continues, “Into adulthood, Jodi has remained a trusted friend and mentor. I’ve loved celebrating major life milestones together, and I am forever grateful for her and the role she plays in my life and family.”
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Jodi, too, remembers the experience fondly, saying, “As a fourth grader, I remember loving that I was able to mentor a first grader and share in such a special experience of praying together. It gave me a sense of biblical responsibility at a young age and helped foster the idea of having and being a mentor. This is what it means to live biblically.” She adds, “Hailie and I still have a very special bond that started all those years ago. The Lord knew what He was doing when He put us together!” Current SBS senior Lainey Sims reflects on her experience saying, “I’ve seen prayer partners grow into long-lasting, life-giving friendships. I am still close with my prayer partner I was assigned to in fourth grade, and it’s been such a fruitful experience to watch her grow up and get to know her throughout the years!” She ends her thoughts by conveying genuine appreciation for the SBS difference. “I am so grateful to have spent all these years at SBS learning to live biblically, building a strong foundation of faith that I know will keep me grounded in truth even as I leave next year.”
Servant Leaders Make a Difference
SBS middle school leadership opportunities empower young people to serve their community and school through acts of service, encouragement, school spirit, faith and by example. The ultimate goal is to live out the SBS mission, strengthen the Second Baptist School community and develop leadership qualities in each student. In hopes of doing just that, the middle school Service Committee was formed. The Service Committee is a group of eager student leaders in middle school who all indicated that they wanted to lead in the area of service. The committee itself was not elected, but they elected two leaders amongst themselves, Titus Brown ’27 and Timothy McCay ’26. On November 18, the middle school Service Committee put together a breakfast for all the SBC/SBS workers. This group of over 80 employees keeps our campus operational 24/7, allowing for SBS students, families, teachers and administrators to thrive. They deemed this the Thankful Service Project.
According to middle school teacher Ana Konuma, “Our buildings are full of very special people who work long hours each day in order to keep our campus tidy, safe and running for all of us. With this project, we want to say ‘thank you’ and let them know they are part of our team.” This service project was a collaborative team effort. Students in Sarah Batista’s Spanish class wrote thank you cards in Spanish for the team members who prefer to read in Spanish. During advisory, fifth grade students wrote thank you cards in English for the team members who prefer to read in English. The middle school Service Committee set up all of the tables and food for the special guests attending the breakfast. According to Oliver Dawley ’27, “Planning for the project and executing it was fairly easy, but finding the employees around the school who were unable to attend and still making sure they received breakfast was more challenging. In the end, we were able to find and serve
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everyone including groundskeepers, police officers and cleaning staff.” This student-driven opportunity to give back and serve speaks volumes about the caring community at SBS and the ways in which our students are learning to live biblically and lead courageously. Kambell Crites ’26 shared, “This project made a big impact on me and proved how a little gesture can go a long way. It pointed me towards the strength of a community built on Christ. I am grateful for the opportunity to tangibly serve and lead in my school.” These students also felt the joy that comes from living biblically and serving without expectation of recognition. Lizze Craig ’28 added, “This initiative filled me with joy and made me feel blessed to be a blessing.” Ana Konuma concluded, “I am grateful for our middle school administrative team who supported the service project since day one. Thanks to them, our students can dream big and lead courageously in their community.”
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College Day is Back on Campus! By: College Guidance Fellow Trace Tarkington ’22
After a challenging year when College Day was virtual, nearly 75 college representatives from across the globe attended this year’s College Day in person. After last year’s virtual College Day, students were eager to attend this year’s event in person. Thanks to the Office of College Guidance: Amy St.Denis, Donna Sims and Allison Dow, Second Baptist School successfully hosted its annual College Day on October 6, 2021, in the E Gym. After a challenging year when College Day was virtual, nearly 75 college representatives from across the globe attended this year’s College Day in person. The day before the big event, SBS Prefects and Fellows aided in setting up tables, chairs and snacks, getting everything ready to welcome the college representatives and guide them to their assigned locations the following day. SBS eighth graders and all upper school students filled the gym to speak with the various colleges and
universities. As students traveled from table to table, they asked representatives questions to learn more about their respective universities and gain valuable insight about the colleges they were interested in or had never heard of before. The experience also helped many students learn more about the college decision process as they learned specifics about different schools. Hosting an in person College Day proved valuable for students and representatives. After hours of conversing with students, college representatives enjoyed a delicious lunch from Taste of Texas, Cabo Bob’s and Roegel’s BBQ. College Day 2021 was yet another successful SBS event for the colleges represented, and more importantly, our students.
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EXTREME Spirit
Giant blue and gold SBS balloon structures loomed cheerfully in the entryway of Woodway Village, as middle schoolers celebrated Extreme Eagle week, a yearly tradition that celebrates unity, community and the spirit of SBS. Each day, a different fall sports team was celebrated at morning drop-off, building the excitement all week long. On Thursday, students and teachers alike went all out, dressing to the nines with blow-up costumes and homemade blue and gold accessories. The team of fifth grade teachers dressed as bees for Be the Difference while the team of seventh grade teachers dressed like they were seventy-five years old, as a celebration of our 75th anniversary. Student or teacher – everyone was all in!
Student or teacher – everyone was all in!
Parading into the E Gym for the Extreme Eagle pep rally, students were greeted by enthusiastic parents. We can’t recount this event without thanking our fabulous parent volunteers, led by Nancy Scales, who took the energy to the next level and even participated in blue and gold dress.
Dean of Students Cecil Shorts served as the MC for the pep rally, pumping up the already lively crowd. Fall sports teams were congratulated on a slew of recent wins, games of crab soccer and musical chairs made everyone laugh while middle school Spirit performed cheers and dances throughout the pep rally. Finally, participating in a long-time SBS tradition, sixth grade won the class yell. Middle School Student Life Coordinator Kim Marshall shared about the purpose of the week. Extreme Eagle week is about celebration – our students, faculty and staff rally together to showcase their school spirit. In middle school, it is especially important to find opportunities where one can demonstrate encouragement and support for others – Extreme Eagle does just that and we are proud of our students for participating and cheering each other on.
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SBS Dads Club Fall Breakfast
“Fathers have a unique influence on their families and we want to engage that influence at Second Baptist School.” The Second Baptist School Dads Club meets for breakfast to fellowship with one another, learn about the latest happenings, be encouraged and learn how they can help serve the SBS community.
average is about 55%, it is clear that our students are receiving an incredible education and producing at an elite level academically,” said Konzelman as he addressed the audience of SBS dads.
“Fathers have a unique influence on their families and we want to engage that influence at Second Baptist School.”
Head Football Coach Terry Pirtle engaged the group with insights into coaching football, leading teams and the achievements of Eagles football. Coach Pirtle specifically mentioned the tremendous blessing the Athletic Center provides for Eagles football with its state-of-the-art facilities. Since the 2016 opening of the Athletic Center, the Eagles record is 41-12. The Eagles have only lost one game on the Woodway campus since 2018.
These encouraging words from Dr. Chris Hobbs, our new director of institutional advancement, opened the inaugural gathering of the school year for Dads Club. Nearly 80 SBS dads gathered to hear from campus leaders about the biblical purpose of fatherhood and to experience firsthand this new extension of our caring community. A core value of SBS, the caring community is intentionally extended through Dads Club with encouragement, inspiration and biblical foundation. The crowd of dads enjoyed breakfast together while listening to insights from Head of Upper School Jon Konzelman on a variety of SBS programs and divisions. Konzelman highlighted the increased academic achievement and excellence in upper school. He also brought special attention to the recently graduated Class of 2021, who set a school record by receiving over 11 million dollars in college scholarships, more than 400 college acceptances and has some exciting news about National Merit Scholars. There was much to share! “SBS students produced an 85% passing rate on the academic advanced placement tests. When you consider that the national
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“It’s a special thing to turn on the TV on a Saturday afternoon and see eight SBS Eagles playing college football for some of the best programs in the country. It’s more special to know that they love their high school coaches and we love them,” said Pirtle. Chris Volke, current SBS dad and the Dads Club coordinator, addressed the audience on the value of the club and how it provides important community connections for SBS fathers to leverage their influence for the benefit of the school and students. Volke described the process of membership, the opportunities to connect and serve and insights he believes make the Dads Club a crucial addition to the SBS community. “Our children need to see us involved and connected to their experience at SBS. If they see that partnership between us and the school, they will really thrive.” said Volke.
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Community Helpers
What do police officers, nurses and chefs have in common? They are all community helpers we have right here at SBS! In a themed learning unit, pre-kindergarten 3 students learned all about how certain jobs lend a hand and contribute to our community. Leading Courageously “Community helpers week teaches our students to lead courageously by showing them what it’s like to be a servant to others,” said PK3 teacher Edith Pinto. Learning about community helpers teaches our students why working in the community is important while also emphasizing the value of helping each other in the classroom. PK3 teachers shared that community helpers week taught students to lead courageously by watching others model kindness and how they care for each other by helping the community. Mrs. Pinto continued, “We learned about how having God in our hearts helps us to be brave and also gives us love to help one another, just like the community helpers.” Caring Community The week kicked off with a visit to the school cafeteria and kitchen with Second Baptist Executive Chef Brian Duncan ’06. PK3 teacher Jocelyn Rocha said her students loved walking through the kitchen, meeting the school baker and seeing everything behind the scenes. “We can’t stop talking about Chef Duncan in our classroom!”
Other members of our caring community stepped up to share about their helping roles, including school nurse and Director of Health Services Heather Cornelius, Police Officer Jose Guillen and our community fire station with firefighter Steven Lee and his crew. The students in PK3, PK4 and Bridge were impressed by the firetruck and their special tools. Show and Tell To cap off a fun week, PK3 hosted a Community Helpers Show and Tell where students dressed up as their favorite community helpers. The teachers shared, “The highlight of our week was watching their faces as they each walked in Friday morning dressed in their community helper costumes. Most of our students were nurses for the day, and it was heartwarming to watch them care for each other with such nobility.” Inspiring the Future For PK3 teacher Araceli Babcock, it was heartwarming to see how her students took what they learned out into the real world. She said, “One parent shared a picture of Nico cleaning his sister’s teeth at the dentist’s office. The next day he came in so excited to share how he was a community helper!” All of the community helpers who came to visit our youngest learners at SBS made such a big impact. Mrs. Pinto said, “Their visits have sparked many fun conversations amongst my students about what they want to be when they grow up.”
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The Distinguished Speaker Dinner Impact This year’s Distinguished Speaker Dinner honored the legacy of SBS in its 75th year while celebrating the faculty and staff who make an impact in the lives of SBS families every day. Distinguished Speaker Dinner This year’s Distinguished Speaker Dinner celebrated 16 years of the event and 75 years of Second Baptist School. Uniquely, this year’s Distinguished Speaker event was hosted as a dinner instead of a luncheon so that students and faculty members had the opportunity to attend and hear guest speaker, Paralympic Gold Medalist, Jessica Long. Jessica’s challenge to those in attendance at the dinner was to live courageously. By telling her life story and the challenges she faced with her disability as a child and continues to face, she had to make the daily decision to persevere and avoid giving up in difficult times. She encouraged the SBS community to do the same. Director of Advancement Dyanne Kimmel said, “I love the sense of community that comes with attending this event to celebrate our greatest asset, our teachers. I think about the current families who attend and the alumni parents that return each year to give generously in support of our faculty and staff. In the 15 years leading up to 2021, the Distinguished Speaker event has raised more than $5.3 million given to our faculty in Christmas bonuses and salary increases.” Jessica Long’s Impact The Cunningham family was particularly impacted by this year’s event. SBS mom Lacy Cunningham shares, “When we found out Jessica Long was going to be this year’s speaker, I cried! Not necessarily because it was Jessica, but because it was someone with a disability being represented as the Distinguished Speaker for the school. We have known about Jessica Long for quite awhile and we have cheered for her while
watching the Paralympics, we purchased her book and I follow her on Instagram. She is an incredible athlete and role model, and we were delighted to get to spend an evening in the same room as her.” Lacy’s husband and son Oliver ’30 also attended the dinner. Oliver, being an aspiring Paralympian himself, was starstruck. “Oliver got a chance to meet her before the dinner. She was incredibly humble and kind, chatting with us and even signed his copy of her book, Unsinkable. Oliver got to hold one of her gold medals and they talked about what adaptive sports he played. She asked if he wanted to be a Paralympian one day. He smiled and nonchalantly said, ‘maybe.’” Lacy went on to say, “Without a doubt our teachers are a big reason why Second Baptist School is so special. These teachers have become family to us. They devote so much of their time, not just in the classroom but throughout the week, to encourage and equip them to be the very best version of themselves. My kids have always felt so loved. We don’t take it for granted that we are at a school where the teachers not only prepare them for the future with a solid education, but more importantly they prepare them to go out into the world and be a light for Jesus.” Distinguished Alumni and Alumni Parents Each year, an alum is selected who is accomplished within their field, and exemplifies our portrait of a graduate – someone who is Christ-centered and thinks critically, lives biblically and leads courageously. This year’s Distinguished Alumnus, Dr. James Nolen ’96, is a mathematics professor at Duke University and is not only a leader in his field/research, but is also someone who clearly lives out his faith. He is a dedicated member at his home church and continues to serve his family and community with a servant’s heart.
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Unique, brilliant, charming, respectful, humble, compassionate, wise beyond his years, committed to Jesus were all words used to describe him by teachers and peers. The Distinguished Alumni Parents are parents who have supported Second Baptist School over the years through their time, talents and treasure. Sandra and Harry Craig were active supporters of our teachers, coaches and administrators while their two boys, Kirk ’96 and Ryan ’97, attended SBS. They served with the athletics department and Sandra volunteered as room mom, class party helper and hostess, field trip chaperone and much more. The Craigs continue to be active members of our community as their six grandchildren have either graduated from SBS or are currently enrolled. Celebrating 75 Years At this year’s event, we were pleased to recognize all of our past Distinguished Speaker chairs through visual timelines in the lobby. While this event has only been in existence for 16 years, the night is a true celebration for all SBS faculty, staff and coaches over the last 75 years. SBS is where it is today because of every former and current employee of SBS, and this event highlights the time and effort our teachers pour into every student. At this year’s Distinguished Speaker event, alumni, alumni parents, former faculty, current faculty/ staff and current students were all in one room together, which is really the goal of celebrating 75 years this year: To gather together through community, to reconnect with peers and friends and to celebrate our school and those who have walked these halls in one way or another. Congratulations to the Office of Advancement and Chairmen Erica and Jamie Walsh and Kristie and Clint Wetmore and the Underwriting Committee on a successful and impactful event!
Promise and Possibility
“Students learn that God has a wonderful plan for each of their lives and a special job for each one of us,” shared the first grade teachers. First grade teachers introduced their students’ annual program, Dream Big, in front of a Sanctuary full of parents, friends and grandparents. “God wants his children to catch His vision for their lives and shine like stars for Him.” The SBS Class of 2033 certainly shines bright and is full of promise and possibility for the future. First grade teacher Jordan Danvers shares, “As teachers, parents and grandparents, we have been entrusted to help guide these precious children. Our greatest desire is for each of them to reach their full potential and to be the person God has called them to be.” In first grade at Second Baptist School, “students learn that God has a wonderful plan for each of their lives and a special job for each one of us; something that we can do for Him, that will help others and will further His kingdom,” shared the first grade teachers. Hopeful about their bright futures, students dressed
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the part of their dream jobs – from athletes to teachers, paleontologists to artists, even a gemologist! In special songs, students sang about what they want to be when they grow up and about the love God has for them, trusting, as the song said, “God has a plan for me.” Head of School Dr. Don Davis said, “To be together again in person, celebrating this extraordinary community, made Dream Big even more special this year. I am proud of our children and thankful for committed teachers who understand the responsibility of pouring biblical truths into them each day.” Jordan Danvers concluded the program by thanking the students’ families, for “no job is more important than that of a parent and grandparent. Your influence never ends. We honor you for the continuous love and support you show each and every day, as you seek to raise children who DREAM BIG and follow God’s plan for their lives.”
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Developing the SBS Portrait of a Graduate in Upper School
Upper school at SBS can be summarized with one word – intentional. The high school experience is designed to develop wellrounded students who fulfill the SBS Portrait of a Graduate. Head of Upper School Jon Konzelman emphasizes, “We encourage students to think critically in the classroom, live biblically in their daily interactions and lead courageously with their involvement in co-curriculars.” High school students are given opportunities to pursue their passions through clubs, leadership positions, sports and the arts, all while preparing for the important next step in their lives – college. Students do not do any of this alone. Faculty and staff offer support and guidance, but none more so than the upper school counselor. New to this role in 2021 is Samantha Morris – mom to recent graduate Miranda ’21 and Jacob ’24. Samantha started in the technology department at SBS in 2014 before transitioning to middle school where she taught Spanish, technology and robotics. While teaching, she earned her masters in education in school counseling, which led her to the upper school counselor role.
At SBS, this pivotal position is meant to foster a safe and positive culture for students to achieve individual academic success and strong social-emotional development so they can live according to God’s purpose. Samantha states that her main goal is to “establish relationships with students and families to provide guidance, support and encouragement throughout their time at SBS.” She believes in creating solution-focused strategies and serving as an authentic and compassionate role model for students. With a recent SBS graduate and one child in high school, Samantha relates to the challenges that upper school students and parents face each day. She offers advice to parents of high school students at SBS, “God has a purpose for your student! Celebrate the milestones and have fun along the way. Discover the powerful lessons learned through challenging experiences and be thankful for them.” She also offers advice for students, “Be excited about what your future holds, be focused, dedicated and an engaged learner. Be positive because positive thinking is associated with positive results.”
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SBS welcomes many new families in ninth grade. These families are offered the same intentionality with a four year plan and meet with Samantha one-on-one to learn more about the well-rounded educational experience, extracurricular activities and volunteer opportunities offered at SBS. Discussing each student’s interest and dreams enables Samantha to offer individual support throughout their high school years. Families transitioning from middle to high school at SBS are introduced to her role through their student’s eighth grade Bible class where she introduces herself and the four year plan meeting. Samantha shares insight into these introductions, “the students each put together a slide presentation in preparation for the four year plan meeting which helps them discover their passions.” Eighth grade families attend meetings with Samantha in the spring to create a path toward a successful future in high school at SBS. She also thinks beyond high school, “I believe an excellent four year plan contributes to earning valuable scholarships and attending the college of their choice.”
Homecoming 2021 – Celebrating 75 Years! By: Communications Fellow Preston Igo ’23
Second Baptist School celebrates a monumental Homecoming. Homecoming Pep Rally The start of the 2021 Homecoming festivities began toward the end of a long school day. For the first time since the pandemic in 2020, the E Gym was filled with chattering students from all grades, excited for the Homecoming Pep Rally. With performances from cheerleaders, band and Golden Girls, this pep rally certainly built excitement for the game. Cheerleader Caroline Hawkins ’23 remarked that the pep rally was “really cool since it was the first all-school pep rally since COVID happened.” She also couldn’t help but note the creativity of the pep rally games “showing the connection students have between grades because of their siblings.” As the name suggests, the pep rally succeeded in making everyone in attendance excited for that night’s home football game. Alumni Dinner – Celebrating our Alumni SBS also welcomed back over 400 guests for the annual Alumni Dinner. Catered by Pappasitos, alumni gathered under the tent to reminisce on their time spent here at SBS over the years. Alumni Relations Coordinator Courtney Tauber said it “was incredibly special to see so many alumni, alumni parents and members of the SBS community all gathered together in fellowship. You could feel the energy and excitement in the tent, and I’m thankful for everyone who came out to celebrate this fun SBS tradition, especially on our school’s 75th anniversary year.” Homecoming Game Bright lights shone down onto the field as students, parents, alumni and faculty filled the stadium. It was finally game time and the varsity football team stormed onto the field. The game started in gridlock as both teams exchanged offensive drives to little avail. After Woodlands Christian took a short lead in the first quarter, the mighty Eagles retaliated, commanding the lead as both teams headed into their locker rooms for halftime. Halftime marked a memorable occasion as students were reminded of their predecessors; the state champion
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alumni teams of SBS were honored, followed by the anticipated annual homecoming court announcements. This year’s King and Queen were seniors Austin Courtney and Ava Loveless. The rest of the court was made up of freshmen – Olivia Shoemaker and Wes Baker, sophomores – Caroline Lane and JD Crisp and juniors – Linley Norris and Grayson Gandolfo. Junior Prince Grayson Gandolfo remarked he “felt confident that he was going to win” but is undoubtedly grateful he had the opportunity to be nominated for such a timeless tradition. Finishing off half time, the Golden Girls took the muddy field, stunning the stands with a captivating kick routine. Golden Girl Lauren Schweers ’23 remembers the night as a “blast, laughing with her friends as the mud-splattered up from the field during their performance, but in traditional Golden Girl spirit we didn’t give up and persevered through the performance even in the rugged environment.” Following the halftime festivities, the Eagles retained the lead during the remainder of the game, winning handily 34-22. Junior wide receiver Karsten Chambers said that one of the contributing factors of the win was the student section cheering on the team and trying to help the Eagles win the game even from the stands. Upper School Homecoming Dance After the game concluded, the upper school student body donned their 1920s attire for The Great Gatsby Homecoming Dance. Excited about the win, students rushed into the E Gym, which had been transformed from the pep rally to fit the 1920s era. The dance was a spectacle, and many were in awe of the variety of attire worn by students. Gerry Vazquez ’23 noted that he “loved the atmosphere and ambiance present as well as everyone’s formal attire.” With good friends, food and music, many people didn’t want to leave the dance at the end of the night. Junior Scarlett Gunn even remarked that she “wished the dance wouldn’t have ended,” portraying the night as one she and other students will surely not forget any time soon.
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Homecoming 2021 –Celebrating 75 Years! 75TH ANNIVERSARY 2022
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Bzzz...it’s Bug Day!
Ask a kindergarten parent what’s in their freezer from August to September, and they may tell you about the insects being preserved next to their frozen meals. Every fall, SBS kindergarten students collect bugs – insects of all kinds – as part of their learning unit on insects. From houseflies to butterflies, grasshoppers to beetles, and even a live stick insect, lovingly named Abraham, kindergartners marched into school with bug collections in hand. Students toured one another’s classrooms, admiring their collections, proudly showing off their unique finds to their friends and classmates. In a sweet show of support, second graders came to visit their kindergarten prayer partners and tour their insect exhibits. But there was more to this project than meets the eye. Becoming “insect detectives,” students learned to think critically as they not only discovered the characteristics of different types of insects but also learned how to take care of their new class pets – live caterpillars that would morph into butterflies before their very eyes. “During this process, the students were able to ask and seek answers to their questions about metamorphosis,” says kindergarten teacher Tracey Townsend. “They asked questions like, what happens to the caterpillar’s skin as it gets bigger? And why can’t the butterfly fly immediately after it is hatched?”
We saw the specific ways God provided for the insects we studied.
When it comes to our lower school students, the whole community loves to get involved with these fun, interactive projects. Second Baptist Executive Chef and kindergarten dad, Brian Duncan ’06, shared his beekeeping hobby with students. Showing off his special beekeeping gear and homemade honey, he answered very thoughtful questions from our curious five and six-year-olds. How do you integrate a unit on insects with a biblical worldview? It’s easy, according to kindergarten teacher Mary Paige Harris ’13. “We saw the specific ways God provided for the insects we studied. For example, God gave caterpillars exoskeletons so they can easily bend to get into J-shape to form a chrysalis. If God cares for tiny creatures He created, how much more does He care for us who are made in His image?” Stephanie Sems adds, “God has so amazingly crafted the caterpillar to completely change into a different insect.” What an opportunity for students to learn about divine design!
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Coffee with College Guidance
“The beautiful part about SBS is that we know our students. Because we have a personal relationship with our students, we are in the position to guide them individually.” Second Baptist School’s Director of College Guidance Amy St.Denis explains how the College Guidance department equips students to shine in the college application process. The Second Baptist School College Guidance experience is informative, intentional and individualized. Upper school parents had the opportunity to dive into this #SBSdifference with the College Guidance team at grade level coffees. Thanks to the expertise and efforts of Amy St.Denis, Donna Sims and Allison Dow, SBS students are bound for great things. This team is involved in every step of the college application process. According to Director of College Guidance Amy St.Denis, “The college application landscape changes every year, and our goal is to stay current so we can regularly inform students and parents. We are intentional about our partnership with families so we can guide students in their search to find God’s plan for their lives.” Coffee with College Guidance meetings are divided by grade level. When asked what the purpose behind
this was, St.Denis shared, “This is so we can establish a clear timeline for each student, depending on grade level. We are passionate about helping students individually, and we are able to begin that process by delivering age-appropriate information that equips students and parents with what they need in their college search.” What makes this SBS College Guidance experience unique? According to St.Denis – relationship. She shared, “The beautiful part about SBS is that we know our students. Because we have a personal relationship with our students, we are in the position to guide them individually. We want more than anything for our graduates to find their fit in a college where God can use them best to advance His kingdom.” SBS students shine in the college application process. They are involved, they express themselves beautifully and they seek God’s will under the guidance of St.Denis and her team. As our students are equipped to think critically, live biblically and lead courageously, we are grateful for a department that is solely dedicated to finding the best fit for them to live out our mission at the next educational level.
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Flight Night 2022 By Communications Fellow Preston Igo ’23
Friday, January 14, was a special day at Second Baptist School – Flight Night. This school-wide event included a pep rally for all grades to celebrate winter sports and build excitement for the big basketball games against Fort Bend Christian that night. The JV and varsity cheerleaders gave a fantastic performance, showcasing teamwork and community. Cheer was followed by a game of knockout that surprised everyone when Cameron Reid ’23, varsity soccer player, won the competition, beating out varsity basketball players. After this, it was the Golden Girls’ time to shine, and very soon, they were dazzling everyone with their exceptionally choreographed dance. Some students said, “It was the best performance of the Golden Girls yet!” After the Golden Girls finished their performance, the time came for the class yells. Ultimately, with help from the eighth graders, the seniors won, continuing their winning streak for the year.
" The crowd increased the
team's energy to help beat a competitor like Fort Bend."
Back on campus for an evening of basketball, the varsity teams brought their A-game to Flight Night. The women’s varsity basketball team fought hard, surging ahead through the first quarter and holding onto their lead by halftime. The second half of the game was no different; SBS controlled the scoreboard over the rival Fort Bend Eagles, winning 67-44. After the game, Liv Walker ’23 said, “It was fun to see the entire SBS community come out and support the basketball teams. The crowd was energetic, loud and enthusiastic the whole night. It’s always fun to play when your friends are cheering you on.” The stands remained full in anticipation of the men’s varsity basketball game, and the energy of the crowd continued to rise. The men’s team did a tremendous job gaining and retaining a lead, winning 81-66. Sophomore Micheal Olay remarked, “how [he] enjoyed the enthusiasm of the crowd, and [he] is already extremely excited for the next one.” Kyle Kollmorgen ’23 also said “that the crowd increased the team’s energy to help beat a competitor like Fort Bend.”
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Biblical Truth in Every Classroom
What does the Bible have to do with geometry? How does a Christian worldview connect with physics and math? Through their yearlong professional development, faculty discovered practical ways to cultivate a strong Christian perspective through everyday learning experiences in all subjects. How do you integrate biblical truth in a math classroom? Allison Armond explains that she and her colleagues have implemented many out-of-the-box ways to stretch their students to connect mathematics with scripture and the gospel. In middle school math, Mrs. LaJuandé Harvey connected geometry with creation. After studying characteristics of shapes, students were asked, “How is God revealed by what we see around us?” In creation, we find shapes and patterns made by our divine Creator that ultimately point back to God. Students also discussed the meaning of certain shapes in scripture, such as the circle meaning eternity and the triangle symbolizing the Trinity.
In middle school math, Mrs. LaJuandé Harvey connected geometry with creation.
Beyond subject area connections, teachers seek to mentor students to live biblically, modeling a Christ-centered perspective of the world. In any classroom, students can discuss the deeper meaning of life, purpose and the Great Commission. Mrs. Armond asked her upper school math students to reflect on mathematicians whom they had studied, asking the question, “Can God use non-Christians to further His purposes on earth? Why or why not?”
She was blown away by the responses, especially ones that led to profound discussions on faith, creation and God’s provision. Students thought deeply, saying things like “God does use non-Christians to further His purposes on earth because, whether they know it or not, they are part of God’s plan. They discover things, like new technology, that helps His Gospel reach more people.” When hard questions are asked, we want adults, teachers and coaches who love the Lord and live out a biblical worldview. This is the foundation of Christian education and purpose of our mission at Second Baptist School – to equip students to think critically, live biblically and lead courageously to impact the world for Jesus Christ.
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Merge Cubes: Innovative technology that encourages exploration
Imagine being able to interact with the organs of the human body like a surgeon or explore space like an astronaut. Augmented reality technology through Merge Cubes allows students to have a hands-on learning experience in a whole new way. What is a Merge Cube? The Merge Cube is a black and silver handheld cube with inlaid designs that interact with various Merge Cube apps to transform the cube into an interactive 3D object or simulation such as a replica of the human body, the solar system or an aquarium. Students can interact with the simulations in a “physical” sense by touching, holding and manipulating the digital canvas. Where did they come from? SBS technology integration specialist Antoinette Latham and lower school technology teacher Ashleigh Manion saw the Merge Cubes in action at TCEA, an
education technology conference. “Merge Cube came out with a subscription geared toward higherlevel science, adding a lot of content,” explained Antoinette Latham. “With the added features, Merge Cube allows students to use the virtual reality of the iPad and the technology of the cube to see science in a new way, such as holding the solar system in their hand or even dissecting a frog.” Seeking new ways to pursue educational excellence through innovation, Mrs. Latham introduced this new technology to middle school science teachers who use iPads in their classrooms. How are students using Merge Cubes? Middle science teacher Ana Konuma said, “I added Merge Cubes to our solar system unit. Using the app and the cubes, an augmented reality solar system appeared before the students’ eyes, and planets actively rotated around
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the sun.” The hands-on technology allowed students to “touch and enlarge the planets, learn facts about the universe and complete a scavenger hunt.” Mrs. Konuma added, “They were able to interact with the content by moving around and getting closer to it. This AR experience enhances complex and abstract topics that text and photos simply cannot.” In seventh grade life science, teacher Jessica Dossey used Merge Cubes to allow students to explore the human body. Students who used the Merge Cubes said it was interesting being able to see where the organs were in the body. For example, they could click on the stomach and rotate the Merge Cube to see the surrounding organs. Hands-on learning takes on a new meaning with middle school teachers integrating innovative technology into the classroom!
An American Legacy
Bursting with patriotic pride, Second Baptist School second graders did it again! Another Parade of Presidents in the books, our school community is proud of such a patriotic heritage. “The Parade of Presidents is such a memorable experience that always goes down as students’ favorite memory of second grade,” said second grade teacher Brittany Kasischke. In 1992, three second grade teachers came together to write a program that would showcase the history of our nation, the leaders who built it and the students who are its future. Head of Lower School Rita Herring, along with Linda Linder, Mary Neal Ramsey and Ruth Ann Jones, mother of current second grade teacher Alison Tidmore ’91, wrote the original program for an audience of parents and grandparents. Alison Tidmore ’91 said, “I love carrying on my mom’s legacy in second grade!”
" I love carrying on my mom's legacy in second grade! "
“The students worked diligently day after day to present a program that honors God and our country,” explained Alison Tidmore ’91. Brittany Kasischke shared that her favorite part of the program was “hearing the students sing ‘Blessed is the Nation.’ What an honor to instill Psalm 33:12, ‘Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,’ on their hearts each and every day.” Head of School Dr. Don Davis enjoyed seeing another one of his own children participate in the program. “This year I was the proud father of President James Madison. I am thankful that Second Baptist School prioritizes the knowledge and understanding of history, patriotism and public speaking, all of which are clearly developed in our children through the Parade of Presidents.” Steeped in patriotism and biblical truths, the legacy of the Parade of Presidents continues, year after year, teaching students how to lead courageously as our country’s leaders have done and how to live biblically by honoring the Lord.
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Spring Swings Into Action
“It really is special to be together as a community, even off the field and out of school. We are not a team. We are brothers.” Eagle fans of all ages flocked to the SBS campus to celebrate spring athletics at our annual Spring Swing event. The JV baseball team opened the night with a victory against Lutheran South, followed by a hardfought competition from our softball team against Woodlands Christian. The evening ended with a victory from varsity baseball vs. Cristo Ray Jesuit. Junior Preston Igo shared his thoughts about being a member of the baseball program, “The SBS baseball team is like a family. Everyone helps each other improve and reach their own potential on and off the field. The baseball team is very supportive of one another.” He continued, “It really is special to be together as a community, even off the field and out of school. We are not a team. We are brothers.” Perhaps the best part of any SBS event is the way it brings the SBS family — our caring community — together to gather and support each other. Of course, food trucks and face painting, inflatables and exciting competition often make it all the more fun!
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A Texas Hoedown
Students memorized John 3:16 and recited it from memory before showing off their square dancing skills and walking the “Lonesome Trail” around the gym perimeter. Galloping in on “horseback,” Second Baptist School PK4 and Bridge students beamed with Texas pride as they kicked off their annual Hoedown program. Rooted in patriotism, biblical values and a love for our community, Hoedown displays the best SBS has to offer, starting with some of our youngest students. Introducing the show, Head of School Dr. Don Davis said, “Education is the passing down of values, and our values are rooted in a Christcentered education, academic excellence, within a caring community. Hoedown supports these values by instilling a love of God, a love of country and a love for our great state of Texas!” PK4 teacher Sami Killion reflected, “The weeks leading up to Hoedown are full of energy and anticipation. Our students learn the Word of God and history of our state through music and dance.” Furthermore, “Hoedown is an opportunity to showcase our commitment to excellence, our love for God and our desire to share Him with our students and families.”
The performance was full of Christ-centered songs and even a “Cowboy Prayer.” Students memorized John 3:16 and recited it from memory before showing off their square dancing skills and walking the “Lonesome Trail” around the gym perimeter, always a fan favorite. Another highlight of the program was the Bridge students stepping up to the microphone one by one to proudly share Texas facts with the captivated crowd. Lower School Music Teacher Maryanne Elders described the biblical integration in this program, sharing that “students discover how the cowboys and cowgirls lived, worked and worshiped God on the prairie and on the trail.” She added, “My prayer is that these songs will be anchored in their hearts as they grow up and strive to live biblically in this ever-changing world.” In the words of the two closing songs, “God is good,” and “God bless Texas!”
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One More Time
With grace and precision, Golden Girls showcased their talents at their annual Spring Show. The Golden Girls dance team is known for their poise, leadership and pursuit of excellence at SBS. After securing their fourth state runner-up title, they moved on to crafting and perfecting their Spring Show, an annual highlight for SBS families. Alumni from the SBS original dance team, the Regal Eagles, as well as Golden Girls were represented and honored as part of our 75th Anniversary. From young children in the audience to upper schoolers cheering on their peers, the community showed up to enjoy the show. From a humorous novelty routine to a stunning lyrical dance, the dancers showed off their versatility in this year’s Spring Show. Solos were also performed, a chance for individuals to demonstrate their unique gifts. Dance after dance, the energy never stopped.
The dancers reflected on their year together as they danced as a team one final time.
Sharing the stage, performances by upper school vocalists, the SBS 2022-2023 cheerleaders and Memorial Dance rounded out the evening. Of course, the highly anticipated act by the Golden Guys had the entire audience laughing through each surprise. The crowd favorite “Bob & Susie” dance featuring the Golden Girls’ dads was also full of fun.
As the show wrapped up with the traditional finale, “One More Time,” the dancers reflected on their year together as they danced as a team one final time. “I am so proud to have a team that loves the Lord, loves each other, and serves other people,” said Captain Emily Bolling ’23. “It has truly been a blessing and a growing experience to lead them.” With only one senior Golden Girl on the team this year, Kate Davidson ’22 was the dancer of honor. She shared, “The best part of Golden Girls is that even though I am graduating, I know that the girls and my coaches will be lifelong friends, and they will always be there if I need them.” Golden Girls Assistant Director Jacqueline Comparin summarized, “Each girl performed way above expectations, and it was incredible to see their hard work pay off. I am still in awe of how wonderful the show was!”
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Go Blue! Go Gold! Go Eagles!
“The first EagleFest took place in 2007. Former student and SBS parent Lisa Zook and her husband Christopher envisioned an event that would pull the whole SBS community together and create a strong tradition. Honoring 75 years of Second Baptist School, the largest allschool celebration, EagleFest 2022 returned to its roots. Eaglefest 2022 kicked off with a sea of blue shirts as students PK4 through grade 12 paraded onto the field. With parents and families in the stands, teachers cheering on their classes and students bursting wtih school spirit, the day was framed with an absolutely beautiful day for our SBS community to enjoy the festivities. “In honoring the EagleFest traditions established in 2007, the Blue/Gold Competition was brought back outside on the athletic fields, allowing the classes to parade onto the field before competing for the coveted 2021-2022 Spirit Award winner,” said Director of Advancement Dyanne Kimmel. “A tiebreaker was needed this year to proclaim the winner, so it was only fitting that the senior class compete one last time to break the tie.” Blue team came away victorious! Following the field games, families enjoyed a picnic followed by the fun-filled carnival while upperclassmen competed in competitive Powderpuff games. From pony rides to the dunk tank, it was a carnival to remember.
The traditional EagleFest powderpuff games began with junior versus senior guys competing in a fierce volleyball competition. After a very close game with a tie after the first and second set, the seniors secured the win in the final round. Then, in another close match, the juniors gained a win of their own in the junior versus senior girls’ football game. The Class of 2022 and the Class of 2023 each got their win! As the day ended, students of all ages gradually trickled off campus, blissfully tired, happy and full of new memories made together. Where did it all begin? Dyanne Kimmel shares, “The first EagleFest took place in 2007. Former student and SBS parent Lisa Zook and her husband Christopher envisioned an event that would pull the whole SBS community together and create a strong tradition for our families to look forward to each year. Motivated by her love for SBS and how SBS blessed her as a student, Lisa created a tradition that has become the most anticipated day of the school year.”
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Eighth Grade Goes to Washington, D.C.
SBS eighth graders learned about our great democracy and celebrated the history of the United States in Washington, D.C. “The eighth grade trip to Washington, D.C. is a rite of passage for students everywhere,” said Head of School Dr. Don Davis. “I am glad our eighth graders could make the trip this year. Abraham Lincoln famously said, ‘Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, for the people.’ This trip is so important as it helps our students begin to understand the inner workings of our great nation.”
Eighth grade students learn outside the classroom, seeing our great democracy firsthand.
“Teaching students about the biblical foundation in the United States is a dream come true,” shared eighth grade U.S. history teacher Blaine Spencer. “Traveling to Washington D.C. to experience the different accounts of American history firsthand with students, such as standing in front of the Lincoln Memorial or walking through the National Museum of American History gave the reassurance of the providence taking place at Second Baptist School and in America.”
Highlights from this year’s trip include visits to the World War II, Korean, Lincoln and Vietnam Veterans Memorials. At Arlington National Cemetery, eighth graders Carson Ford, Noelle Franshaw, Thomas Haun and Emma Hodge laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This annual SBS tradition provides eighth grade students an opportunity to learn outside the classroom, seeing our great democracy firsthand. These experiences in Washington, D.C. also allow them to gain a sense of reverence and appreciation for the sacrifices that have made our country and democracy possible.
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I’m a Believer!
Fourth grade students delivered the gospel message through song, dance and storytelling. They emphasized the importance of not just knowing about Jesus, but truly knowing Him personally as Lord and Savior. In their annual Jesus Freak program, fourth graders had audience members listening to classic 70s hits in a new way, with spinoffs of great songs like “Bad to the Bone” and “Stayin’ Alive” sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Head of School Dr. Don Davis introduced the program, explaining the history behind the gospelcentered show. Jesus Freak was written in 2002 by our lower school Bible teacher Dianna Bolling. Mrs. Bolling said, “The school called and asked if I would be willing to write something to reflect the fourth grade Bible curriculum. Klare Bambrick, a lower school Bible teacher at the time, wrote it with me.” “We want to make sure our students know Jesus and achieve their divine potential,” said Dr. Don Davis. “God’s Word is as true today as it was in Bible times.” Fourth grade students delivered the gospel
message through song, dance and storytelling. They emphasized the importance of not just knowing about Jesus, but truly knowing Him personally as Lord and Savior. Bible teacher Dianna Bolling said this special program “flows out of what we learn in class.” From Genesis through Acts, students share the scriptural teaching they have absorbed all year long. “Our goal was to share the gospel not only with our students, but also with the parents and grandparents in the audience. We prayed that Jesus Freak would present the good news of Jesus with boldness and clarity.” Head of Lower School Rita Herring concluded the program, saying, “The mission of Second Baptist School is to equip you to think critically, live biblically and lead courageously to impact the world for Jesus Christ. Fourth grade, you have done that today!”
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Women of Wisdom and Faith
Grandmothers of eighth grade girls visited Bible class at Second Baptist School and shared their wisdom as women of faith. “It is one thing to learn in the classroom what it looks like to be a godly woman, but there is nothing like sitting and listening to accounts of God’s faithfulness from a panel of real women of faith,” said Bible teacher Loren Hopf ’03. In a unit about celebrating and becoming godly women, grandmothers became the panel of experts. Following a special breakfast with their granddaughters and classmates, SBS grandmothers participated in a Q&A session, answering questions such as, “How did you become a Christian?” and “What is your best relationship advice?”
Nothing like listening to accounts of God s' faithfulness from a panel of real women of faith.
“These beautiful grandmothers spoke with such wisdom, grace, humor and absolute love for Jesus,” affirmed Loren Hopf ’03. “One of the strongest factors of faith transmission is intergenerational relationships. So, anytime we can get our kids around older, wiser saints, we should!” She also explained how God has set up our lives to be surrounded by the body of believers, giving us “instant adopted families” and seasoned believers to learn from. These godly women gave testimonies of faith and God’s provision, pointing out the realities of temptation and the goodness of God’s mercy and protection. “He is faithful, even when you are not,” they shared. When asked how to grow spiritually, they extolled the spiritual disciplines of prayer, Bible study and memorizing scripture, emphasizing asking God for discernment. At SBS, we’re grateful for a caring community of godly men and women who pour into our students and invest in the next generation of Christ followers. Grandparents are integral to our community.
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Make It Count
“Walk closely with the Lord. If you really make that the direction and habit of your life, that will form you into the person God made you to be. Your time in this next period of your life is short, so make it count.” The Class of 2026 celebrated their time in middle school at Eighth Grade Promotion with an audience of friends, family and teachers. Following a special welcome processional and invocation from Bible teacher Loren Hopf ’03, several eighth grade students shared some of their self-written devotionals, meditations on God’s Word through the eyes of eighth graders. Tessa Garcia ’26 inspired her peers, saying, “Throughout life, you are going to go through many obstacles that will try to pull you away from God. Instead, when things get hard, we need to trust, have confidence in Him and know that there is a plan along the way.” Next, keynote speaker Reagan Reynolds ’06 gave a charge to students, emphasizing how they should use their time in upper school. He began by sharing a plethora of timely advice from his own days at SBS. He especially encouraged eighth graders to make a habit of praying. “If
you’re anxious about something, take it to God. Talk to God. Make that a habit now,” he said. “The time will come in your future when something really difficult will happen and you’ll need to turn to God.” Reagan ended with a profound piece of advice: “If you really do want to thrive in this next stage of life and in your future, I will leave you with this: Walk closely with the Lord. If you really make that the direction and habit of your life, that will form you into the person God made you to be. Your time in this next period of your life is short, so make it count.” Then, awards were presented. Canon Toon ’26 received the DAR Good Citizenship Award and Madeline Blakeslee ’26 and Ethan Chan ’26 were honored with Karen Jensen Awards for outstanding academic achievement. Finally, with proud families watching on, eighth graders processed across the stage to enter their next chapter.
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INTERIM TERM
W
ith a rich tradition at Second Baptist School, upper school students embarked on Interim Term, from classrooms on campus to travel beyond Houston. In 1988, Interim Term was born as a way to expand opportunities for Second Baptist School students, enrich learning and provide real-world experiences that extend beyond the school curriculum. This year, selections included engaging on-campus courses, college visits, service opportunities, internships, independent travel and more, with students trading the traditional classroom setting for interestdriven offerings.
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INTERIM TERM
College Tour
“The [Texas College Tours] experience was beneficial because the tours allowed me to think more deeply about what college I want to go to as I was able to get a feel of what each campus was like. SBS sets each student up to succeed and achieve goals in college and later in life.” – Caroline Marshall ’23
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“Interim Term benefits students at SBS because it allows them to decide what they are interested in and learn more about the topic. Also, there are many courses for students to choose from, so we are not limited in our options.” – Avery Bodine ’25
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INTERIM TERM
“During Interim Term, we get to know things about our students that don’t traditionally come out in the classroom: skills, talents or even interests they’re passionate about that we had no idea were there. This year I had many freshmen in my class, Growing Up: Life Skills for Real Adults, and really got to know more about their career plans.” – Melissa Farias, Upper School Spanish Teacher
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“Houston Service Projects opened my eyes to many new experiences. What I enjoyed most was working with the residents at Brookwood. Spending time with the citizens, playing bingo and singing songs, I got to appreciate the small things that make people happy. Interim Term allows us to explore different topics and interests that we wouldn’t in normal classes.” – Riley Tackett ’24
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INTERIM TERM
“This was my first Interim Term as I am new to SBS this year. In Faith Under the Microscope, we learned how science supports and ultimately proves the existence of God and a biblical worldview. We also researched and then presented in the form of a radio broadcast.” – Annie Rawn ’24
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“Interim Term gives teachers an opportunity to get to know a group of students we may not have in the classroom. I chose all the places [in the Road Tripping with History and Science tour] because they’re fun and offer experiential learning. – Ruth Ewert, Upper School Spanish Teacher
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Theatre Takeaways from the Fall Drama
SBS theatre students share their experience with the fall drama, An Evening of One-Acts, which featured three oneact plays, Little Women, Thanks, Awfully! and Check Please: Take 3. From laughter to tears, these three shows had it all! Audiences were impressed by the range of talent demonstrated by these savvy actresses, actors and crew. Cindy Blades has been directing theatre at Second Baptist School since the first show in 1981. Joined by Claire Westmoreland as assistant director in 2007 and Mary Paige Harris ’13 as a production assistant in 2019, this team effort significantly impacts our students. Mrs. Blades shared, “Students collaborate to achieve a work that is much bigger than themselves. The relationships formed in theatre are profound. Our hope is for them to form a deep respect for each other as they seek to use their Godgiven talents to glorify our Lord and Savior, the Giver of our creative gifts and abilities.”
" In the arts, you really discover who you are and Mrs. Blades helps you discover that. "
Not only is the arts program a family, but anyone can participate. Jack Prothro ’22 said, “Everyone can find a role, whether it’s being on stage, doing makeup or serving as crew.” He added, “In the arts, you really discover who you are and Mrs. Blades helps you discover that.” “My biggest takeaways from being in theatre are the lessons Mrs. Blades constantly teaches us. Even though many of them are about theatre, they always relate to everyday life too,” said Samuel Ireland ’23. He added, “The highlight of this year’s production for me was being able to watch the other shows and listen to everyone laugh at both of them.” Crew member Geneva Hudson ’24 said, “Being on the crew was a ton of fun because we were part of the production in a way that people never really think about. I learned so much from working with everyone in the cast and crew and had so much fun behind the scenes!” Bravo, theatre students, for another fabulous show!
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Magical Melodies and Heart-Warming Harmonies By Naomi Konuma ’22
SBS choir students demonstrated their talent and enthusiasm at the annual Fall Choir Concert on October 25, 2021. From seventh to twelfth grade, more than 130 SBS students are choir members, all under the direction of Ms. Becky Martin and accompanied by pianist Mrs. Debbie Wylie. The choirs work diligently on the music performed at the fall concert since the first day of the school year. It was truly amazing to see how their hard work and dedication turned into magical melodies and heart-warming harmonies. Freshman choir member Olivia Shoemaker shared, “Choir is so much fun, and I loved hearing how much we improved at the concert!” According to middle school choir member and soloist Bennett Lane ’27, “The best part about being in choir is being with my friends and singing with them.” Vision Choir member Promise Facciponte ’22 remarked, “Ms. Martin did an amazing job addressing each and every factor necessary for a spectacular performance.” Ms. Martin never fails to create a fun, engaging environment for students to grow, not only as singers but also as individuals. She is intentional in her selection of music pieces. Each song the choir performs is meant to be a song of worship and adoration for God’s goodness and faithfulness, and that vision was definitely evident as choir students filled the Sanctuary with songs of praise.
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Creative Inspiration This year’s Fall Art Show brought joy and inspiration to the community as student artists displayed their artwork. Wandering through the library, visitors, students and teachers saw everything from elaborate 3D exhibitions to black and white photographs, clay creations and collages. While the SBS community enjoyed the artwork on display, art students learned what it takes behind the scenes to put on an art show. Jake Miers ’25 said, “I learned that it is a long process from start to finish; art takes time, and when rushed, it will never turn out the way it was intended to.” For the talented art students, the highlight of the show was showing off their talents to the SBS community and their parents. Kennedy Crites ’22 said, “My favorite part about the art show was that, as artists, we got to see the parents’ and students’ responses to our artwork. The comments I heard about my classmates’ art made me so happy as all the effort was noticed by the Second Baptist Community!” She continued, saying, “Seeing all the artists’ work in one place made me feel part of something greater! It has inspired me to create more art!”
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Courageous Confidence
“By the end, I saw every single cast member encouraging one another, stepping into their role and having fun,” said Ms. Prestage. Music Director Liza Brown said she enjoyed seeing students “grow in confidence. They learned the importance of hard work, focus and attention to detail.” Director Caroline Patterson ’08 agreed, saying she loved “catching glimpses of their abilities and challenging them to stretch and grow!”
best versions of themselves, teaching them accountability and responsibility.”
Tessa Garcia ’26, who played Moana, said, “Having to perform in front of hundreds of people was a special but challenging opportunity. The musical directors and my teachers helped me develop the skills and courage needed to perform in front of an audience and express the leadership qualities of Moana.”
Crew also served a huge purpose in making Moana, Jr. come to life. Ethan Chan ’26 played audio during rehearsal and the show. “He kept the show going,” praised Ms. Prestage. Eighth grader Josh Rhames stepped up when they needed a stage crew member, giving up his roles in the cast to serve in a different way. Caroline Carl ’27 and the ocean girls choreographed many of the dances and “were willing to edit up until the final rehearsal,” explained Mrs. Patterson. “I’ve already asked them to choreograph future productions!”
Vivian Wise ’26 had a unique moment of courageous confidence when she faced an unexpected challenge. She recalls one of her favorite memories was “during the Saturday morning performance the music didn’t start, so I had to improvise lines with my character!” Mrs. Patterson complimented how Vivian “held her ground during a technical difficulty, remaining in character and leading until the issue was resolved.”
Courageous Inspiration Perhaps most inspiring was witnessing the cast and crew encouraging one another every step of the way. “By the end, I saw every single cast member encouraging one another, stepping into their role and having fun,” said Ms. Prestage. Sarah Bezemek ’26 shared, “I practiced leading courageously by encouraging others before and after they performed and singing during chorus parts.”
Courageous Service Production Assistant Emma Prestage ’15 said, “The middle school theatre experience pushes students to become the
Mrs. Patterson gave the perfect conclusion when she said, “These students can truly do anything if they continue to grow in their talents and work together!”
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A Celebration of Christ
At the annual Festival of Christmas, SBS arts students shared their talents, celebrating the coming of Jesus Christ. “Each year the Festival of Christmas propels me into the Christmas spirit,” said Head of School Dr. Don Davis. “The real magic of Christmas is that Christ remains at the center of our celebrations. At Second Baptist School, we keep Christ not only at the center of Christmas but at the center of all we do. That’s the SBS difference.” “The theme of the festival was worshipping an amazing event that happened over two thousand years ago, the birth of Jesus Christ,” shared choir member Sophie Rincon ’23. Visual art, theatre, choral and instrumental music departments from lower, middle and upper school joined together to put on this spectacular show for the glory of God.
" We keep Christ not only at
Beginning with a jubilant rendition of “Carol of the Bells” by the upper school choirs, followed by the fourth grade handbells performance of “Up On the Housetop,” the audience was awed by the enchanting sounds of Christmas. SBS choirs and instrumental musicians from sixth through twelfth grade graced the stage with songs of holiday cheer. Middle school theatre prompted laughter with a spirited performance of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and the upper school theatre students reminded us of Christ’s sacrifice through Legend of the Candycane. Another highlight was the Reflection Men’s Choir, dancing and singing with cowboy hats donned, “No White Christmases in Houston.”
the center of Christmas but at the center of all we do. "
Visual art students’ work was on display throughout the show, with artwork specifically themed to each piece of music. With candles lit, the arts students ended the show by surrounding the audience with their beautiful rendition of “Peace, Peace – Silent Night,” honoring the King of Kings born on Christmas.
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Western Art Winners Second Baptist School students of all ages competed in the annual Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Contest with great success! In the fall, art students at SBS worked on pieces for the rodeo competition, ready to compete with thousands of entries from talented young Texans for the annual contest. The top students went on to compete at the city-wide rodeo competition! The judging took place at NRG during which each finalist received a ribbon based on the tier they qualified for, with blue ribbons indicating first place, red as second and white as third. Fourth grader Kendal came away with one of the greatest honors – Best of Show! Her trophy and artwork was hung in the hayloft gallery during the Houston Rodeo. Kendal said, “Art has always been one of my favorite things to do. It feels great to see my work recognized with so many other artists.” LOWER SCHOOL Kendal ’30 – Best of Show Sophie ’30 – Red Ribbon Ameila ’31 – Red Ribbon Aiden ’31 – Red Ribbon Emmy ’32 – Red Ribbon Eden ’32 – Red Ribbon William ’34 – Blue Ribbon Adele ’34 – Blue Ribbon
! w o h S f o t s e B
MIDDLE SCHOOL Reese Robert ’26 – Red Ribbon Brody LeBlanc ’27 – Blue Ribbon Andie Patterson ’27 – Blue Ribbon Julia Scheldt ’27 – Blue Ribbon Alyssa Zhang ’27 – Blue Ribbon Taylor Zimmerman ’27 – Red Ribbon Claire Bunnell ’28 – Red Ribbon Reed Elliot ’28 – Red Ribbon Anna Lindsey ’28 – Blue Ribbon Gaby Salinas ’28 – Blue Ribbon Mason Mettenbrink ’29 – Red Ribbon Josh Pahutka ’29 – Blue Ribbon UPPER SCHOOL Leighton Reddy ’22 – White Ribbon Kennedy Brown ’23 – White Ribbon Bennett Lang ’23 – White Ribbon Ashlynn Sems ’23 – White Ribbon Jake Miers ’25 – Red Ribbon
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SBS Band Supplies the Sound
“We’ve already more than doubled the entire program.” From classic rock to modern jazz, band students under the direction of Kendel Hickenbottom presented an energetic musical performance in their Mid-Semester Jam. Playing alongside the students, Kendel Hickenbottom showcased the hands-on directing he’s known for, praising students in between sets for their courage, growth and character. Sixth grade band students started off the show, playing high school level music and bringing the energy. Soloists donned black sunglasses and stood with exuberance, beaming with pride. For many of these new band students, this was their first experience playing an instrument in front of a crowd, and their director praised them for it, saying, “Our sixth grade band members led courageously in their willingness to play such advanced music.” The seventh grade through upper school band wowed with hits such as “Every Little Thing She Does is Magic” by the Police, “Smooth Criminal” by Michael Jackson and
“Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. Kendel Hickenbottom also gave his students the chance to choose some of the music, landing “Megolovania” on the program, a song from a popular video game. In 2019, when Kendel Hickenbottom joined SBS arts as director of instrumental music, there were only four students in the fifth and sixth grade band. Now there are 23 students in sixth grade band alone, and Mr. Hickenbottom is hopeful it will continue to grow. “We’ve already more than doubled the entire program.” The seventh grade through upper school band has also increased, in both numbers and quality, with students competing in regionals and eight upper school students making the Area Honor Band. Mr. Hickenbottom proudly concludes, “These students have grown so much in their talents. I am very proud of what they have achieved.”
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Hello, Dolly!
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With sensational sets, extraordinary costumes and spectacular acting, audiences were transported to the 1890s and the world of Hello, Dolly! through Second Theatre Company’s upper school musical performance. Visual Impact Crew members worked hard alongside the cast to make sure each detail was on point with maximum visual impact in each carefully crafted scene. Stage Manager Josh Collins ’23 shared, “It was incredibly rewarding to see the final product because I knew how hard each member of the cast worked in every single rehearsal. I took great joy in seeing the crew execute their roles to perfection.” In Character It was one jaw-dropping moment to the next; the cast and crew worked together to make each scene seamless. Senior Kendall Felton’s talent was above and beyond what one would expect from a high school student. She shined in her role as Dolly and learned so much in the process, saying, “Dolly was not an easy character to get into, and it was fun to push myself to bring her to life.” Kendall also enjoyed bringing back a show that has been done before, having the opportunity to celebrate with the alumni cast members from the 2006 SBS production who returned to see the show. “It was a full circle moment,” said Kendall. Beyond the Theatre Theatre at SBS is more than just spectacular shows, and the impact stretches beyond the special bonds formed. Ellie Eschweiler ’22, lead hair and makeup crew member, said the musical will influence her future. “I learned that I love managing a project and seeing the results. The experience will aid me in determining my career path.” Most importantly, theatre encourages students to grow in faith. Kendall Felton ’22 shared, “The most valuable lesson that I have taken from SBS and Hello, Dolly! is one of resilience and confidence, not in who I am but WHOSE I am. Through the love of my friends and the support and guidance of my parents, mentors, teachers and directors, God used my Second family to instill resilience and perseverance within me so that the legacy I leave will be one I can be proud of.”
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Director of Arts Cindy Blades concluded, “The cast and crew of Hello, Dolly! displayed their God-given talents with grace shining from their faces! I am honored to have helped them discover and enhance their gifts.”
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A Year With Frog and Toad
“The snails were leaders in the cast and brought so much humor to the show while also encouraging and keeping spirits high.” Audience members couldn’t stop smiling during the dynamic fifth and sixth grade musical, A Year with Frog and Toad. The enthusiastic ensemble filled The Hall so that the whole room was a stage full of snappy songs and humorous story-telling. Middle school musical directors Liza Brown and Caroline Patterson ’08 described the show as a “triumph for our fifth and sixth graders.” As fifth and sixth graders learn the basics of musical theatre and the process of putting on a production, it is the hope of their directors that they will continue in musical theatre during their time at SBS. Caroline Patterson ’08 elaborated, “Our ensemble was the driving force behind the show and did an incredible job of learning and refining their dances. The sixth grade cast was fearless and willing to make changes up until show time.” She goes on to share the importance of living biblically in theatre. “It is important in both rehearsals and performances
to point our focus back to the Lord, and remind ourselves that our talents are gifts from Him.” A few students showed exceptional leadership in the show. Caroline Patterson said, “The snails (Warren Osowski ’28, John Abbassi ’28 and Meyer Petersen ’28) were leaders in the cast and brought so much humor to the show while also encouraging and keeping spirits high. JT Garrett ’28 (Toad) was consistently daring and took his acting abilities to the next level for this show! Kannon Felton ’28 and Audrey Hudson ’28 created hilarious characters, Mouse and Turtle, and showed us that there is always room for more drama!” “As a director,” finished Caroline Patterson, “I was thrilled to have such strong talent coupled with strength of character in the cast. Watch these kids over the next few years, because they are only going to get better from here!”
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The Arts Celebrate the 75th Anniversary By 2022-2023 Arts Fellows Mackenzie Ceballos ’24 and Brant Decker ’23
As part of the 75th Anniversary weekend, Second Baptist School hosted its first ever Arts Festival, packed with hands-on activities, students’ art pieces on display and performances by both current and past students. Visual arts, choral, instrumental and theatre departments united to create a morning of enjoyment and creativity. The activities offered for students included leatherworking, face painting, sand art, jewelry making and clay molding. Students flexed their creative muscles in countless ways! Fun and engaging music permeated throughout the festival. Performances ranged from adults to SBS fourth graders. Alumni student performers were numerous and included Zac Decker ’21, who said it was “an honor to come back and perform and still be a part of the SBS family.”
Zac Decker ' 21 said it was " an honor to come back and perform and still be a part of the S BS family. "
The festival featured both new and familiar faces and gave opportunities to students who do not usually find themselves in the spotlight. A chalk walk competition showcased the talents of our lower through upper school visual arts students and highlighted the spirit of SBS, with many designs illustrating our mission. The high school chalk walk winner Frida Olaly ’24 described her experience with the festival, calling it “a fun day to appreciate the dedication and hard work of each area of the arts.” The SBS Arts Festival was a morning packed with fun and unique opportunities for everyone to appreciate and express creativity. No matter the age or talent of an individual, he or she had the chance to reveal or admire the art of self expression. The festival revealed that art truly has no limits, and anyone can express themselves. All it takes is simply one stroke of chalk, one performance on stage or one song played or sung.
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Spring Concert Series
This year, our musical students grew in their talents and abilities and displayed their gifts at the Spring Instrumental Concert and the Spring Choir Concert. In both concerts, audiences were entertained with recognizable tunes, energetic melodies and plenty of personality.
year, the Spring Choir Concert was a memorable evening. A mix of traditional and modern selections delighted the audience throughout the show. Soloists had opportunities to shine alongside impressive large group performances.
Spring Instrumental Concert Band members welcomed the audience to a “night at the movies” in which every song played was taken from a popular film; clips of the movie were played simultaneously. Senior Will Echols and his father worked behind the scenes to time each song and movie clip perfectly.
Freshmen Choir began the concert with several favorites, including “Fly Me to the Moon” and “Forever Young.” Vision Choir followed and wowed with “A Thousand Years” and a bouncy, solo-filled rendition of “Waving Through a Window.” Next, the Reflection Choir performed many incredible songs, including two well-known songs, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” and “Seasons of Love.” The students came together, combining all choirs to end the night with an emotional performance of “Lovely Day” with soloists Dami Briggs ’23 and Kendall Felton ’22.
Director of Instrumental Music Kendel Hickenbottom said he has been wanting to do a movie-themed concert for several years and was excited to realize his vision. Sixth grade band performed hits such as the Mission Impossible theme song, “Circle of Life” from the Lion King and “The Final Countdown” from Rocky IV. Next, the seventh grade through upper school band wowed with popular songs from Avengers, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Incredibles, Jurassic Park, Star Wars and more! The concert ended on a high note with “Don’t Stop Believin’!” Spring Choir Concert Ushering in the last full week of the 2021-2022 school
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Our 40 graduating senior choir students received much-deserved recognition. At the end of the concert, Director of Choral Music Becky Martin awarded Jett Motley ’22 and Grace Lunsford ’22 Oustanding Senior awards, and Tanner Chapman ’22 accepted the Director’s Award for Service. Seniors ended the night with their Class of 2022 Senior Showcase, truly a reflection of their God-given talents.
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ALL-STATE CHOIR 2022 Following a rigorous audition process, four SBS choir students were selected to perform in the Texas All-State Small School Choir. Emily Bolling ’23, Ella Farias ’25, Grace Lunsford ’22 and Olivia Shoemaker ’25 performed in the Texas All-State Small School Choir as part of the 2022 Texas Music Educators Association Convention. TMEA All-State Small School Choir Members Ella Farias ’25 – 4th Chair Soprano Grace Lunsford ’22 – 2nd Chair Soprano Olivia Shoemaker ’25 – 1st Chair Alto Emily Bolling ’23 – 3rd Chair Alto
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Middle School Sports Soar
“Football and both boy’s and girl’s basketball captured HJPC Championships, and six different teams were undefeated in conference games during the regular season. We are seeing a foundation for the future being built with excellence.” Middle school teams soar through the year with accolades, earning multiple HJPC tournament champions, record numbers of goals and points scored, first seed spots and many other tournament successes. Middle school athletic director Jeff Schroeder reflected on the 2021-2022 school year: “I am really proud of our middle school athletes and our coaches.
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Across the board, our students competed very well in every sport and we are seeing the value of quality coaches and developmental programs.” He continued, “Football and both boy’s and girl’s basketball captured HJPC Championships, and six different teams were undefeated in conference games during the regular season. We are seeing a foundation for the future being built with excellence.”
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Middle School Athletics 2021-2022 Recap Fall FOOTBALL
With both seventh and eighth grade football teams ending the season undefeated, head coach Cecil Shorts was proud of the boys’ perseverance and effort. The eighth grade team won the HJPC championship playoff game, defeating St. Francis Episcopal School 40-8. Season Record Seventh Grade: 7-0 Eighth Grade: 10-0 8th Grade Awards/Honors HJPC Champions CROSS COUNTRY Coach Roxanne Worley shared about the successful cross country season, saying each runner showed great improvement at every meet, “shaving seconds and sometimes minutes off their times.” Furthermore, “at the Lutheran South meet, Samantha Bailie ’27 placed seventh overall for the middle school girls and at the SBS Soaring Eagles meet,
she placed eighth overall in the girl’s gold race. Taylor Zimmerman ’27 placed ninth overall in the girl's blue race. It was an amazing season with an amazing group of kids!” VOLLEYBALL Led by head coach Amy Konzelman and varsity softball coach Margo Ostarticky, the middle school volleyball teams had successful seasons, with eighth grade volleyball advancing to a close game in the semifinals of the HJPC after winning the title of Emery Tournament Champions. Season Record Seventh Grade: 12-4 Eighth Grade: 18-6 8th Grade Awards/Honors Emery Tournament Champions HJPC – First round win versus First Baptist HJPC – Semifinals #1 SBS defeated by #4 Presbyterian, 0-2
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Winter BOY’S BASKETBALL With a combined record of 50 wins and one loss for middle school boys’ basketball, it was a season to remember. Coached by Director of Athletics Mike Walker, the eighth grade team walked away HJPC tournament champions as the number one seed, outscoring opponents 513 to 299. Season Record Seventh Grade: 22-0 Eighth Grade: 28-1 7th Grade Awards/Honors Tournament Champions – Little Tiger Classic and Lake Houston Tip Off 8th Grade Awards/Honors Emery Tournament Champions HJPC Champions GIRL’S BASKETBALL In a 69-43 point win over AOS, girls’ basketball won the HJPC championship.
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Season Record Seventh Grade: 13-3 Eighth Grade: 20-4 7th Grade Awards/Honors Tournament Champions – Tiger Tourney Zone 8th Grade Awards/Honors HJPC Champions BOY’S SOCCER Improving on last season by 4 wins, seventh and eighth grade boys’ soccer had a tough but successful winter season under Head Coach Blaine Spencer. Seventh and Eighth Grade: 6-7 GIRL’S SOCCER In their combined seventh and eighth grade girls’ soccer team, over 100 goals were scored in the 2022 season. In the semifinals of the HJPC tournament, the game ended in a 3-3 tie and the Eagles lost in a nail-biting (10) penalty kick shootout. Seventh and Eighth Grade: 12-3
SPIRIT Middle School Spirit 2021-2022 had a very successful season. Working hard on their dance and cheer technique, “the team caught on to new skills faster than we could have imagined,” said middle school spirit coach Elleana Yarborough. “They worked so hard and were always improving.” “Throughout the year,” shared Coach Yarborough, “we watched the girls take on leadership roles on the team by praying for one another at the end of practice along with praising a teammate for something they saw them accomplish during practice. The team not only grew as athletes, but they also grew as individuals who lead courageously and encourage others daily.” SWIM Seven SBS middle school swimmers competed at the 2022 HJPC championship swim meet at the UH Natatorium, many placing in the top 20. Ford Chapman ’26 won the Boys 50 Breast, just missing setting a new HJPC record by
.13 hundredths of a second, breaking his own SBS school record with 31.48 in the race. HJPC Championship Meet Ford Chapman – Boys’ 50 Breast: 1st place, 100 IM: 3rd place Cash Franz – Boys’ 50 Free: 7th place, Boys’ 50 Back: 6th place Owen Rancher – Boys’ 50 Free: 15th place, Boys’ 50 Breast: 9th place Taylor Zimmerman – Girls’ 50 Free: 17th place, Girls’ 100 Free: 12th place Mila Veeningen – Girls’ 50 Back: 15th place Charis Chambers – Girls’ 50 Back: 19th place SE Texas Middle School Championship Combined team – 7th place Ford Chapman set meet record in 50 Breast and SBS school record in 100 IM Cash Franz – 50 Free: 4th place, 50 Back: 4th place
Spring BASEBALL The eighth grade baseball team
had a fantastic run this year finishing the regular season undefeated and 5-0 in HJPC play. “There is a solid nucleus of quality players that are going to make an impact within our HS baseball program in years to come,” said Director of Middle School Athletics Jeff Schroeder. Season Record Seventh Grade: 4-4-2 Eighth Grade: 11-1-1 HJPC undefeated in regular season SOFTBALL This year’s seventh and eighth grade girls softball team, coached by Head of School Ellen Barrett and Middle School Dean of Students Cecil Shorts, doubled their wins from last year’s season! Season Record Seventh and Eighth Grade: 5-8 TRACK The boys and girls middle school track and field team competed at three meets this spring with great success! At the Lutheran South Academy
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Meet, Sophia Buelher beat the SBS record for Northland Relays. Moreover, there were 24 top 5 all-time SBS records broken as a track team this season. Eighth Grade HJPC Meet Girls – 4th place Madison Kalife – 1st in shot put Clayton Hedges – 1st in long jump Seventh Grade Girls – Runner-up in HJPC meet Girls – 1st place at LSA Invitational GOLF Under Head Coach Scott Dawley, middle school golfers developed their skills by playing together two days a week at Memorial Park and Top Golf, earning results in area golf tournaments. Girls HJPC Tournament at Hermann Park Golf Course 3 Medalists – Emily Rouse ’27 (92), Morgan Gross ’27 (110), Callie Toomey ’27 (115) Boys HJPC Tournament at Sharpstown Golf Course Top Scores – Chris Torn ’26 (76), Timothy McCay ’26 (97), Michael Maestas ‘27 (89), Jack Maggi ’27 (86) and Mark Meloy ’26 (110)
Athletics 2021-2022 Recap Fall FOOTBALL
Season Record 11 wins, 3 losses District Record 4 wins, 1 loss Awards/Honors State Finalist ALL-DISTRICT First Team Reid Cordell ’22 – Offense John Dearing ’23 – Offense Grayson Kim ’22 – Offense Eli Smith ’22 – Offense Austin Courtney ’22 – Defense Colin Hedges ’22 – Defense Kyle Kollmorgen ’23 – Defense Everett Skillern ’22 – Defense Charley Schwinger ’23 – Kicker Second Team Colin Hedges ’22 – Offense Everett Skillern ’22 – Offense JD Crisp ’24 – Offense Turner Murdock ’24 – Offense Honorable Mention Barrett Ratliff ’23 – Offense Henry Harris ’22 – Offense Robert Williams ’22 – Offense and Defense
Karsten Chambers ’23 – Offense JD Crisp ’24 – Defense John Dearing ’23 – Defense Superlatives Everett Skillern ’22 – District Defensive MVP Touchdown Club Everett Skillern ’22 – Defensive Player of the Year Winner Grayson Kim ’22 – Offensive Player of the Year Finalist Eli Smith ’22 – Offense Player of the Year Finalist Reid Cordell ’22 – Lineman of the Year Finalist Colin Hedges ’22 – Ironman of the Year Finalist ALL-STATE First Team Eli Smith ’22 – Offense Austin Courtney ’22 – Defense Everett Skillern ’22 – Defense Second Team Reid Cordell ’22 – Offense John Dearing ’23 – Offense Grayson Kim ’22 – Offense Kyle Kollmorgen ’23 – Defense
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Honorable Mention Charley Schwinger ’23 – Offense Academic All-State Reid Cordell ’22 John Dearing ’23 Grayson Kim ’22 Colin Hedges ’22 Eli Smith ’22 Everett Skillern ’22 JD Crisp ’24 Turner Murdock ’24 Charley Schwinger ’23 Austin Courtney ’22 Karsten Chambers ’23 Kyle Kollmorgen ’23 VOLLEYBALL Season Record 32 wins, 8 losses District Record 12 wins, 2 losses Awards/Honors District Runner-Up State Semi-Finalist ALL-DISTRICT First Team Julia Sauvageau ’22 Morgan Warren ’24
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Alexis Gill ’22 Madi Hobbs ’25 Second Team Emma Wentz ’22 Kennedy Smith ’22 Luella Bakker-Barrink ’22 Honorable Mention Lauren Wood ’24 ALL-STATE First Team Alexis Gill ’22 Second Team Morgan Warren ’24 Madi Hobbs ’24 Honorable Mention Julia Sauvageau ’22 Academic All-State Alexis Gill ’22 Julia Sauvageau ’22 Kennedy Smith ’22 Emma Wentz ’22 “The highlight of the fall season was making it to the state tournament. It was such a happy, energetic moment for the team when all our hard work paid off,” said
senior Julia Sauvageau. “We really learned how to trust each other and believe that we could be the best. This whole season was a learning experience, and it was so worth it in the end.” CROSS COUNTRY District CJ Hobbs ’23 – District Champion State CJ Hobbs ’23 – 8th “Definitely my goal going into the season was to place in the top 10 in the state,” said CJ Hobbs ’23. “It’s great for the resume to finish all-state for TAPPS, especially in 5A.”
Winter CHEER
TAPPS Cheer Championship TAPPS Cheer Championship Superior Rating Ranked 8 out of 11
ALL-STATE CHEERLEADERS Second Team Taylor Nunes ’22 Honorable Mention Ella Ryan ’23 Nina Robert ’22 Academic All-State Taylor Nunes ’22 NCA All Americans Caroline Marshall ’23 Nina Robert ’22 Taylor Nunes ’22 “We did it all in 2021-2022! We love cheering on all of the sports teams and being able to compete as a cheer team,” said head coach Andrea Spence. “This competition season really brought us closer together as a team and motivated us to do even better next year. The team had eight graduating seniors who did an amazing job leading and pushing us to be the best we can be.”
GOLDEN GIRLS TAPPS Dance Championship Second Place ALL-STATE DANCERS First Team Emily Bolling ’23 Caroline Lane ’24 Second Team Kendalyn Firenza ’23 Honorable Mention Kate Davidson ’22 Kick Company Caroline Lane ’24 Academic All-State Emily Bolling ’21 Kendalyn Firenza ’23 Crowd Pleasers January Premiere Grade 10 1st Runner Up Soloist – Caroline Lane ’24 Grade 10 Solo Overall Winner – Emily Ann Haynes ’24 Grade 11 1st Runner Up Soloist – Lauren Schweers ’23 Grade 11 Solo Overall Winner – Emily Bolling ’23 Middle School 1st Runner Up Soloist – Tessa Garcia ’26
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Duet Award Overall Duet Winners – Virginia Young ’23 and Kendalyn Firenza ’23 Team Awards Team Lyrical – Platinum/ Division Winner Team Pom – High Platinum/ Division Winner Team Novelty – High Platinum/Division Winner Highest GPA Award Division Overall Grand Champion Team High Point Winner – Team Pom Overall Grand Champion Team According to head coach Madelyn Whitehead, “The self-discipline, teamwork and sisterhood that is built throughout the Golden Girl year is unlike any other experience these girls will encounter. The days are long and challenging, but the years are short and the memories and valuable lessons will stay with them forever!”
Athletics 2021-2022 Recap continued MEN’S BASKETBALL Season Record 22 wins, 12 losses District Record 12 wins, 2 losses Awards/Honors Second in District Area Champions ALL-DISTRICT First Team Cole Satterwhite ’22 RJ Manginello ’23 Michael Olaly ’24 Second Team Cole Claypool ’23 Alec Scarborough ’24 Jackson Krueger ’23 Honorable Mention Elijah Mouton ’22 Zeke Bullington ’23 ALL-STATE Second Team RJ Manginello ’23 Honorable Mention Cole Satterwhite ’22 Academic All-State Cole Claypool ’23 Cole Satterwhite ’22
Assistant coach for the men’s varsity basketball team Curtis Scipio shared, “In a strong season, the team showed tremendous growth and maturity when it mattered most. The future is bright considering we’ll be bringing back four starters and returning ten players next year.” WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Season Record 24 wins, 8 losses District Record 12 wins, 0 losses Awards/Honors TAPPS 5A State Runner-up District Champions ALL-DISTRICT First Team Olivia Sauvageau ’24 Olivia Walker ’23 Ella Ryan ’23 Kate Marshall ’23 Second Team Jazlyn Williams ’24 Honorable Mention Chloe Burton ’22
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Emma Wehring ’24 Riley Tackett ’24 TAPPS 5A District 5 MVP Olivia Sauvageau ’24 ALL-STATE First Team Olivia Sauvageau ’24 Second Team Olivia Walker ’23 Ella Ryan ’23 Honorable Mention Kate Marshall ’23 Academic All-State Kate Marshall ’23 Ella Ryan ’23 Olivia Walker ’23 Head coach John “CH” Herndon said, “It took a couple of months to find our rhythm, but the girls put it together finishing 27-9 overall and 12-0 in district. We advanced in the TAPPS State tournament in a comeback victory vs. Boerne Geneva in the semi-finals, while ultimately securing the TAPPS State Runner-up in the final championship game.”
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MEN’S SOCCER Season Record 6 wins, 11 losses, 1 tie District Record 4 wins, 10 losses ALL-DISTRICT First Team Riley Good ’22 Schuyler Clark ’22 Second Team Trace Tarkington ’22 Nathan Flato ’23 ALL-STATE Academic All-State Schuyler Clark ’22 Nathan Flato ’23 Riley Good ’22 Trace Tarkington ’22 “This year felt like a massive step forward in a lot of ways,” said head men’s soccer coach Doug Walker. “Physically and skillfully, we improved a lot. We saw that success in our win column.” WOMEN’S SOCCER Season Record 16 wins, 3 losses
District Record 13 wins, 1 losses Awards/Honors District Champions Area Champions ALL-DISTRICT First Team Mary Claire Torn ’24 Naomi Konuma ’22 Ryann Brooks ’23 Second Team Amy Menendez ’25 Rylee Brooks ’22 Alexis Gill ’22 Honorable Mention Chloe McFarland ’23 Helena Platis ’22 Cameron Kelly ’22 Danielle Tackett ’22 Luella Bakker-Barrink ’22 ALL-STATE Second Team Mary Claire Torn ’24 Honorable Mention Naomi Konuma ’22 Ryann Brooks ’23 Academic All-State Ryann Brooks ’23 Alexis Gill ’22 Naomi Konuma ’22
Athletic Performance Coach Chelsey LeBaron assisted coaching with the varsity women’s soccer team this year. She said, “We had a very talented senior class that led our women’s soccer team throughout the season and coached our younger players to be the best version of themselves on and off the field. The team worked hard all season learning a variety of formations and playing different positions, ultimately resulting in a district and regional championship!” SWIM 2022 TAPPS STATE MEET Men’s – Fifth Place Women’s – Fourteenth Place Awards/Honors Men’s 400 Free Relay – Fourth Place Individual Awards Leighton Chapman ’23 – Second Place in 200 Free and 500 Free
ALL-STATE Second Team Leighton Chapman ’23 Academic All-State Elaine Adams ’23 William Chapman ’23 Ellie Eschweiler ’22 Mallory Smith ’22 Peter Steelman ’22 Brandon Young ’22 In his eighteenth year coaching swim for SBS, coach mark Hahn shared that it was another exciting season. “There were awesome swims by all the SBS swimmers at the TAPPS state meet, including the earning of two silver medals and three SBS school records by junior Leighton Chapman.”
Spring
GOLF District District Men’s team – second place Anastasia Rowlen ’25 – third place in district
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Patrick Elder ’22 – fifth place in district State State Men's team – third place ALL-STATE First Team Patrick Elder ’22 Hank Huthnance ’22 Matthew Elder ’25 Carson Elder ’25 Nate King ’25 Academic All-State Patrick Elder ’22 Hank Huthnance ’22 The highlight of this year’s golf season was the third place finish of our men’s golf team at the TAPPS state tournament. Coach Jenny Murdock warmly reflected, “I cannot begin to tell you how proud I am of all of the players in our golf program. The players who ultimately represented SBS in district, regionals and state had to really earn their spots.”
Athletics 2021-2022 Recap continued BASEBALL Season Record 24 wins, 6 losses District Record 9 wins, 1 loss Awards/Honors State Champions Regional Champions Area Champions District Champions
Leighton Reddy ’22 Second Team JD Crisp ’24 Academic All-State Ty Baker ’23 Grayson Kim ’23 Luke Pettitte ’23 Leighton Reddy ’22 Andrew Rivers ’22 Noah Weisser ’22
ALL-DISTRICT District MVP Luke Pettite ’23 First Team Luke Pettite ’23 Leighton Reddy ’22 J.D. Crisp ’24 Andrew Rivers ’22 Second Team Noah Weisser ’22 Grayson Kim ’22 Turner Murdoch ’24 Ty Baker ’23 Honorable Mention Elijah Marrero ’22 Ben Feuer ’23 Tommy Willis ’23
SBS baseball ended the 2021-2022 school year by securing a state championship! Head Coach Raynor Noble reflected on the winning season. “In the beginning of the season, I knew we had the pieces necessary to make a run at the state title. It all culminated in a 11-5 victory for the state championship.”
ALL-STATE First Team Luke Pettitte ’23
ALL-DISTRICT First Team Ella Ryan ’23 Emily Rogers ’23 Emma Garcia ’22 Second Team Kennedy Smith ’22 Mackenzie Schmidt ’23 Becca Sloan ’22
SOFTBALL Season Record 9 wins, 10 losses District Record 6 wins, 6 losses Awards/Honors Regional Runner-Up Area Champions
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ALL-STATE Second Team Emma Garcia ’22 Emily Rodgers ’23 Academic All-State Emma Garcia ’22 Ella Ryan ’23 Becca Sloan ’22 Senior Emma Garcia said, “I am so proud of our softball team. Our new coach, Coach Oz, kept us confident following last year’s winning season, led our team well and established a new and unified softball culture at SBS. With her guidance, we were able to finish in the playoffs as one of the top eight teams.”
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TENNIS District Line 1 Doubles – Cameron Reid ’23 and Brandon Sek ’25 Line 1 Singles – Dariush Boujabadi ’22 Line 1 Women’s Doubles – Stella Baird ’24 and Elliott Preston ’24 Line 1 Singles – Caroline Chapman ’22 Line 2 Singles – Kate Kell ’22 State Caroline Chapman ’22 – third place Honorable Mention All-State Caroline Chapman ’22 Boys Academic All-State Fubo Liu ’23 Edward Millard ’23 Cameron Reid ’23 Caleb Vinson ’22 Girls Academic All-State Kennedy Brown ’23 Elizabeth Buehler ’23 Caroline Chapman ’22 Lindsay Hardin ’23 Kate Kell ’22 Caroline Martinez ’23 Chloe Russell ’23
TRACK District Garrett Hughes ’23 – district champion triple jump Olivia Smith ’24 – second place high jump CJ Hobbs ’23 – district champion – 1600 m, second place 3200 m State Men – 4x100 – seventh place Garrett Hughes ’23 – third place triple jump Olivia Smith ’24 – fifth place high jump CJ Hobbs ’23 – fifth place 3200 m Alec Williams ’22 – sixth place discus
Emily Rogers ’23 – fifth place 100 m Jacob Pedersen ’22 – seventh place 110 m hurdles ALL-STATE Honorable Mention Garret Hughes ’23 Academic All-State Schuyler Clark ’22 CJ Hobbs ’23 Garret Hughes ’23 Everett Skillern ’22 Emily Rodgers ’23 Eli Smith ’22 Alec Williams ’22 Coach Brad Lane said, “We finished the track season with eleven athletes qualifying for the state track meet, and many of our athletes outperformed their previous records. From running their fastest times ever at the district meet to improving their PRs week by week all the way to state, I'm proud of the effort and work they all put in.”
Everett Skillern
COLLEGE COMMITMENTS
Coach David Hall reports that tennis had an incredible season. “Seven players qualified for state,” he elaborated. “Caroline Chapman ’22 finished third at the state tournament in Waco, and we had a lot of close matches. Our players got a taste of what it is like to compete at the highest level.”
FOOTBALL
Brown University Division I
Eli Smith FOOTBALL
Villanova University Division I
Jordan Williams
BASKETBALL
Texas A&M University Division I
Leighton Reddy BASEBALL
University of Texas, Tyler Division II
Rylee Brooks SOCCER
Truett McConnell University NAIA
Colin Hedges FOOTBALL
Lamar University Division I 75TH ANNIVERSARY 2022
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6X State Championship Baseball Team
The SBS baseball team brings home their sixth state championship. Keeping in line with the tradition of excellence at Second Baptist School, the varsity baseball team proved that determination, skill and hard work pays off, capturing the sixth state championship of the program’s history. Head Coach Raynor Noble reflected on the season for SBS baseball. “In the beginning of the season, I knew we had the pieces necessary to make a run at the state title. Our schedule was firm with good opponents from start to finish, and that is what prepared us. At the state tournament, the team played really well; we’ve got good pitching and had numerous clutch hits. It all culminated in a 11-5 victory for the state title.” Director of Athletics Mike Walker added, “State Championship number thirtytwo is coming back to SBS! Congratulations varsity baseball for an amazing performance at the state final four.”
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VIEW THE SBS BASEBALL TEAM’S ROAD TO STATE AND CHAMPIONSHIP WIN!
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Eagle Strong
Athletic Performance Coaches Nick Mascioli and Chelsey LeBaron share their passion for strength and conditioning as a ministry for all students. “We want every student to know whether you are the best athlete on campus, an athlete fighting for playing time, the lead in the play or have never been in a weight room before, YOU have a home in our weight room. We love each student here, and no matter who you are, you were designed with a purpose,” said Director of Athletic Performance Nick Mascioli. Growth Mentality Athletic Performance at SBS includes weight room training for all athletes, but something special happens in the strength and conditioning elective class. Coach Nick Mascioli said, “We are seeing huge benefits both academically and athletically, as students reap the benefits of taking care of themselves physically and mentally.” This class grew from 4 students enrolled in 2019, to 85 students enrolled for the 2021-2022 school year. “Students are seeing the value of a healthy lifestyle. Regardless if you are an athlete or a student trying to stay fit, the weight room provides skills that will last a lifetime,” explained Coach Masicoli. Training for All In 2020, Chelsey LeBaron was hired as a female strength and conditioning coach. The goal was to not only expand the already growing program, but to motivate more female athletes to utilize the benefits of athletic training. “Coach LeBaron’s ability to connect, understand and advocate for our female athletes has empowered them to take care of their bodies, not just physically, but mentally and spiritually,” said Coach Mascioli.
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Head Prefect Danielle Tackett ’22 emphasized, “The encouraging environment of the weight room, developed by Coach Mascioli and Coach LeBaron, promotes excellence for all athletes. Their dedication to Eagle athletes all year round, from pre-season to summer camps, is developing Second Baptist School athletics for the better. We can jump higher, run faster and push past our competition.” Living Biblically “As coaches, we naturally have more organic opportunities to build relationships with students when they are training,” said Coach LeBaron. “The weight room is a place they can relieve stress and express their emotions. Here is where we are able to speak truth and life into our athletes.” “Coach Mass and Coach Lebaron have taught me so many things in and out of the weight room,” explained Jackson Tidmore ’23. “The strength and conditioning class is amazing because you build close relationships with your coaches, get stronger in your body and in your relationship with the Lord.” Coach Mascioli concluded, “We ask that the Lord provide divine appointments for us that we can share the love of Jesus Christ with our students. Our athletes learn that the Bible teaches us to walk together and live in community, to refine one another.” Weight Room Equipment Upgrade Due to the exponential growth of this program, the floor plan of the weight room has been reimagined with a summer 2022 installation of 16 new racks and supplementary equipment. This new layout and increase in equipment nearly triples the number of athletes who can train at one time with new, state-of-the-art equipment installed in our current weight room in the Athletic Center.
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SECOND BAPTIST SCHOOL GRADUATES • 1982 - 2021
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Second Baptist Church approves creation of SECOND BAPTIST SCHOOL
1957
feb 1, 1951 MOTHER’S CLUB is founded and organized by Mrs. J.J. Truitt and will later become the PARENT’S CLUB
feb 3, 1947
SBS is accredited by TEA (Texas Education Agency) with an ENROLLMENT OF 128
SBS moves to 6410 WOODWAY
1955
Doors open for the first time for KINDERGARTEN
MUSIC AND PE are added to curriculum
1965
1962
oct 2, 1946
With SIXTH GRADE ADDED, the school becomes a full elementary school
1961
1964
THE INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS PROGRAM starts for grades 7-8 including boys’ basketball and baseball, and girls’ volleyball and cheer
LIBRARY program is add
1966
EXTRACU include Gle Student Co newspaper
Pre-K the sc FULLY throug
1967
The JUNIOR NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY is added
URRICULAR ACTIVITIES ee Club, Hand Bell Choir, ouncil and the school r, The Eagle’s Eye
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1968
is added and chool becomes Y ACCREDITED gh ninth grade
1969
ded
1976 1972
The yearbook changes its name to AQUILA
First WESTERN DAY that will later become the Hoedown The first SPORTS BANQUET and AWARDS ASSEMBLY is held to recognize student achievements
1970
Enrollment reaches 452 and a staff of 29
The first yearbook, The GOLDEN EAGLE, is published
1973
1982 First COLLEGE NIGHT
1981 FIGHT SONG created by Gary Moore and Stan Durham
1981 FIRST THEATRE SHOW Our Town
First HOMECOMING celebration
1979
1984
1986
1989
COMPUTERS on campus
First GRADUATING CLASS of SBS
1988
may 30, 1982
FOOTBALL is added to the athletic program
1986
Introduction of the COLLEGE GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT
INTERIM TERM is implemented with students traveling overseas to England
1990
1988
Over 100 students audition for the FIRST SBS MUSICAL, The Music Man
FIRST STATE CHAM Women’s Varsity Vo
The upper scho into its NEW FA adding two floo Jane Elder (E
FIRST DRILL TEAM Regal Eagles
1989
SBS is named a FULLY ACCREDITED SCHOOL by SACS
SBS wins the TAPPS OVERA SCHOOL AWA (won again in 2001/2005/20
1999
First EAGLEFEST
2000 2006
ool moves ACILITIES ors to the r Building Building)
SBS becomes an APPLE DISTINGUISHED SCHOOL
2000
2021
SBS opens three UNIVERSITY MODEL campuses
2020
First SENIOR CAR PARADE
2013 First TOMMY TUNE AWARD for Costumes for On the Town
EAGLE FIELD (football stadium) opens The WOLIVER-ANDERSON LIBRARY opens on the sixth floor
2016 ATHLETIC CENTER opens
First annual DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER LUNCHEON featuring Oliver North
2006
ALL ARD
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2007
2012
MPIONSHIP olleyball
The upper school implements the PREFECT SYSTEM
2011
2021
SECOND BAPTIST SCHOOL CELEBRATES 75 YEARS!
TWO THOUSAND, SIX HUNDRED TWENTY-SIX ...
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The Second Baptist School community celebrated God’s faithfulness and 75 years of selfless servants, diligent students and committed parents. Second Baptist School’s 75th Anniversary celebrated our past, our present and our future: our living legacy, from the first graduating Class of 1982 to our current prekindergarten 3, Class of 2036. A reception, program and celebratory dinner, followed by an Arts Festival and a brunch honoring current and former faculty and staff, along with several class reunions. It was a beautiful weekend celebrating the legacy of SBS, with a reunion of many alumni, teachers and students alike, converging with the present community.
OUR PAST
“The journey to this moment began in 1946. Second Baptist School began as a flicker of hope in the hearts of a small group of Second Baptist Church members,” shared Head of School Dr. Don Davis. “75 years have been filled with mountain top experiences and dark valleys, but God has been present and His Word lights our path each step of the way.” “We stand on the shoulders of giants, the men and women who came before us, who allow us to reach for new heights of excellence each day,” added Dr. Davis. Many such men and women were present for the commemorative evening, sharing in reminiscence and reunion, nostalgic joy ringing throughout campus. Head of Lower School and alumni parent Rita Herring shared, “It was a special blessing for me to see much-loved administrators, teachers and coaches who taught my own children and mentored me as a parent and a teacher. It reminded me once again what a privilege it is to shepherd children and watch them grow into godly men and women.”
OUR PRESENT
Dr. Ed Young emphasized the value of staying on our purpose “to not only educate another generation in knowledge; we want to be a part of leading every student who comes here to Jesus Christ and let them know what it means to be a Jesus-follower.”
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Christian worldview is the cornerstone of Second Baptist School. As former SBS Superintendent Dr. B. Jane Hursey said, “What is the secret of success of Second Baptist School? It’s Jesus. That’s it!” Current students participated in the 75th Anniversary program, showcasing this love of Christ through music and the recitation of Luke 2, a revered SBS tradition and an example of the importance we place on the memorization of God’s Word. 75th Anniversary Co-Chair Becca Schwinger ’89 remarked, “Prices and politics may have changed since 1946, but our school leadership has remained steadfast in its commitment to honor our school’s foundation while educating and equipping each student to make a difference in the world for Jesus Christ.”
OUR FUTURE
Head Pastor Dr. Ed Young and Head of School Dr. Don Davis shared a common message about the future of Second Baptist School – we’ve only just begun. Dr. Young said, “We have not yet begun to fight. We are going to keep the American dream of ‘one nation under God’ alive.” Dr. Davis echoed that sentiment, saying, “The excellence God inspired at Second Baptist is a result of decades of sacrifice and commitment. We will honor their faithfulness by remaining steadfast in our commitments even as the darkness of this world encircles us.” There is a bright future ahead, with expanding Christian education around Houston, a new children’s building, and continual growth of enrollment and excellence on the Woodway campus. “I believe Second Baptist School is poised for its greatest hour!” Dr. Davis emphasized. Middle School Director of Athletics Jeff Schroeder said it well. “75 years – the history, the richness, the people, the athletes, the families, the change, but we’ve never wavered about who we are, what we’re about or where we’re going.” If you were unable to attend the 75th Anniversary celebration, scan here to watch the livestream recording of the event.
And so, we continue to be Christ-centered, pursuing excellence within a caring community. We build upon the legacy of faith, excellence and family. We are Second Baptist School!
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p FIRST SBS KINDERGARTEN CLASS, 1946-1947 Mrs. Robert Curtis (right), Miss Lois Murray (left), STUDENTS: Ann Roberts Hornbuckle, J. Michael Jones, Dorothy Louise Rains, Don Hugh Cook, Joe Van Hall, Gary Oliver Belin, Robert Ronald Shamblen, Harry Gus Hrivnatz, Robert Andrew Lankford, Richard Claude Harris and William Tracy Ford
Second Baptist Church Downtown 1946
SBS Students 1954-1955
Mothers’ Club 1951
p
FROM THE 1968 SBS YEARBOOK Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Sampson had no children of their own, but it was in their hearts and set forth in their wills to benefit many children through the ministry of Second Baptist School and other Baptist agencies. After the death of Mr. Sampson in 1959, Mrs. Sampson longed to see Second Baptist School reap benefits from the trust estate while she was still living and could rejoice in its accomplishments. Because she is “a dear lady who could not wait,” all her “children” from Second Baptist School – past, present and future – arise and call her “blessed,” and thank God for her generous spirit and the wise provision of her late husband.
Mr. W. E. Sampson, 1887-1959
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Mrs. W. E. Sampson
MRS. HAZEL MORRIS Second Baptist School Principal, 1951-1965 a grade each year. In the spring of 1956 we graduated our first 6th grade class. It numbered 23.
My Years in Second Baptist School In conference in December 1946, the deacons recommended the organization of a kindergarten to be sponsored by Second Baptist Church, said kindergarten to begin February 1947. The church voted to do so and thus was born our Second Baptist School. Dr. Kyle M. Yates was our pastor at the time, and it was his bidding that the deacons were encouraged to take this step. Mr. Williard Weeks was a member of the staff, and he assisted in many ways in getting the school started. A committee of some fifteen interested members of Second Baptist was elected to care for the needs of the school. Among these first committee members were: Dr. Roy A. Crouch, Mrs. Jewel Askew, Mrs. J. J. Truitt, Mr. and Mrs. John A. Woodward, Mrs. Adalene Bennett, Mrs. Eunice Young, and Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Taylor. From February 1947 until January 1951 school was held in the white frame building behind the Educational Building on Milam Street. In January 1951 it was moved to the second floor of the Memorial Building on Louisiana at McGowen. This was a much more desirable location, a modern brick building with modern facilities, central heating, cooling etc. Our school began to grow and expand. Each year parents plead for the next higher grade, and by word of mouth they interested more parents in sending their children to us. With the support of many loyal friends in the church and the faithful cooperation of our school committee members, we added
In February 1951 Mrs. J.J. Truitt organized the mothers of children in our school into a “Mother’s Club,” which through the years, has been an important factor in the progress of our school. It has sponsored many worthwhile projects, such as the purchase of library books, globes and maps for classroom use, an Azograph machine for the use of teachers, the purchase of all text books for use of pupils in the school etc. They subsidized $1,200 of the salary of a teacher when a grade was added. They have sponsored scheduled trips to the Museum of Natural History and to the Houston Symphony throughout the years. When the school was too small to charter buses for these trips, these wonderful mothers provided ways in private cars that our children might have all the extra curricular advantages available. About the year 1955 the name of the club was changed to Parent’s Club in an effort to gain the fathers as well as the mothers in projects for the school. Many and varied have been the projects accepted by the club for the enrichment of the school program, and just as many and varied have been their means of raising money to finance the projects. A spirit of wholesome togetherness developed among the membership as they planned together, and worked together, always with one goal in mind – the will to carry their part of the load in providing for their children the best education possible, spiritually, mentally, physically and culturally. We were achieving and gaining prestige and sought accreditation from the State Education Agency. Dr. Lee Wilborn of the Texas Education Agency, Austin, Texas, visited our school in the fall of 1955 for the purpose of evaluating it. I spent the morning showing him our facilities, having him visit our class rooms, meeting our teachers, visiting our church library,
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meeting our pastor, and explaining our purposes and goals. At noon our school committee met with us for lunch at Kelley’s Steak House, where they were conversant with him, and he was favorably impressed. When he went back to Austin he wrote us a most complimentary letter and in due season we received our accreditation. This was a great step forward for us. The basic purpose of our school is to combine the Christian gospel with fundamental knowledge of the Word of God and His sustaining grace, while training our pupils in the skills, knowledge and facts required for successful living today – to instill in them, through kindness and understanding, the proper attitudes and behavior essential for loyal, upright citizenship. In short it is our purpose and goal to join hands with the home and the church in developing spiritual leadership for tomorrow. It was my privilege to be associated with Second Baptist School from 1951-1965 and to enumerate all the wonderful contributions our Parent’s Club made to the school during that time would be an insurmountable task. Suffice it to say our lives were made much richer and fuller, and our service rendered more helpful because of the fine fellowship and cooperation of our wonderful Parent’s Club. The guiding purpose of Second Baptist School is not to offer to the public a commodity that can be found elsewhere, such as the same kind of educational experience as that offered in the public school. This church extends an invitation to parents to send their children to be taught the Bible in a daily, vigorous way as a vital part of their school studies, with the prayer that these hundred of lives will bear much fruit for Christ’s kingdom in their adult lives. Only the power of God could have placed such vision in the mind and heart of Second Baptist Church, nurtured and sustained it, and brought Second Baptist School to its lofty and unique position.
SBS
Scan here to view the Legacy Lights video series and hear more from our living legacy at SBS. EAGLE
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LEGACY LIGHTS 75TH ANNIVERSARY 2022
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BILL HART
Who: SBS Student from 1953-1960
While at SBS: Bill Hart started at Second Baptist
School in 1953 when his mother, Esta Henderson Hart, was hired to teach first grade. He started as a first grader and stayed on through seventh grade. The school was located in downtown Houston at the time, between Milam and Louisiana on McGowen street. Mrs. Earl L. Morris was the principal and the Second Baptist Church pastor was Kyle M. Yates. Every school day would begin with each class doing their pledges to the U.S. flag, the Christian flag and the Bible. Bill was part of some of the first field trips at Second Baptist School, including a sixth grade trip to Monterey, Mexico. He was also the center on the first Second Baptist basketball team. Bill and the other fifth grade boys would practice every day, and their first game was against the South Main Baptist Church Royal Ambassadors team. After his sixth grade year, the school added one more grade (seventh grade) to which he stayed to be a part of that inaugural class.
Life after SBS: After leaving SBS in 1960, Bill Hart went
to attend Jane Long Junior High School before moving to the newly constructed T.H. Rogers Junior High School on San Felipe. He then went on to graduate from Robert E. Lee High School. Mr. Hart attended Southern Methodist University and was in the first draft lottery for the Vietnam War; however, he chose to serve with the U.S. Navy instead. After going through Officer Candidate School, he was commissioned in 1971 and served 4 years. After his service in the Navy, Bill spent time working in Oklahoma City and eventually got into the mortgage business where he spent the majority of his career. Bill also returned to Houston for a bit to receive his MBA from the University of St. Thomas and he starred on Jeopardy in 2001.
Where is he now: Bill Hart recently retired from the mortgage business. He and his wife of over 30 years, Mary Kay, currently reside in Guntersville, Alabama.
Bill is center back row (tallest).
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BUDDY GRIFFIN Who: Head Coach and Athletic Director While at SBS: Coach Griffin started at
Second Baptist School in 1964 and was the first coach and athletic director at SBS, among many other roles such as PE, teaching, taking charge of carpool and lunchroom. Buddy Griffin was a beloved coach by all of his students and was known for playing his banjo at the sports banquets. He treated the gym as a mission field to show his students the love of Christ, and led many children to the Lord during his time at SBS.
Life after SBS: After leaving SBS in 1978,
Buddy went on to work for First Baptist Houston where his primary responsibility was to build and design the Christian Life Center. He then went on to serve at Sugar Creek Baptist Church, taught at Houston Baptist University for 3 years and has helped to start a handful of churches. Buddy published a few books, one being What in the Heaven is Going on at Church, which he wrote after visiting over 100 churches from different denominations. He also founded the All Stars Youth Banjo Band in 1997, which consisted of just 14 members at the time. In 2019, the band celebrated its 20th anniversary with more than 70 young musicians.
Where is he now: After 50 years in ministry, Buddy recently retired from Sagemont Church where he served as the Men’s Ministry Pastor. Coach Griffin resides in Houston with his wife, Sandy, and remains active with his music. He is also in the process of writing another book called Living the Dream and I’m 80 Plus.
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ALLISON ZIMMERMAN WALLACE ’02 Who: SBS Alumna and Current Parent While at SBS: Allison attended
Second Baptist School from second through twelfth grade. During her time at SBS, she was involved with Drama Club, cheer, Anchor Club, National Honor Society, National Charity League and Youth Group Leadership.
Life after SBS: Allison went to the
University of Texas in Austin where she was a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority. Upon graduation, she returned to Houston and joined Weil, Gotshal and Manges LLP as their legal recruiter.
Where is she now: Allison recently celebrated her 15th year with Weil, Gotshal and Manges LLP and now serves as their Regional Director of Administration. She is also a member of the Junior League of Houston and is active with The Children’s Fund. Allison and her husband, Chris, remain involved in the SBS community through their two children, Emmy ’32 and Campbell ’35.
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CHRISTOPHER ‘BEAU’ DOLLINS ’98
Who: SBS Alumnus, Current Parent and Executive Administration Team Member
While at SBS: Beau attended SBS from ninth
through twelfth grade. During his time here, he was involved with church youth group, YoungLife, varsity football, Eagle Guard, varsity table tennis, varsity billiards, Key Club, Spanish Club, Chess Club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Life after SBS: After graduating from SBS, Beau was in the honors college at Texas A&M University, received his Bachelors of Business Administration from the University of Houston, went on to receive an MBA from Sam Houston State University, and participated in the Masters in Entrepreneurship program with MIT. He is also completing his Ed.D. in Education Leadership with Liberty University this year. In 2004, Beau became a founding partner of Employer Flexible whom he is still involved with today, and has served in various roles on national trade association, nonprofits and company boards. Additionally, Beau and his wife, Pam, founded Paratus Classical Academy in 2012.
Where is he now: Beau and Pam have been
instrumental in partnering with Second Baptist School to open three SBS University-Model® campuses in the fall of 2021 across the Houston area. Through a partnership with the Dollins and Paratus Classical Academy, SBS has been able to expand excellent, Christian education into Kingwood, Cypress and Memorial. Beau and Pam currently reside in Houston with their 11 children.
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EMILIE COUGHRAN IRVINE ’90 Who: SBS Alumna While at SBS: Emilie attended SBS from eleventh
and twelfth grade and during her time at SBS, she was involved in Drama Club, Student Council, Yearbook Staff, Alpha Omega, choir and was named Homecoming Queen her senior year.
Life after SBS: Upon graduating from SBS, Emilie
attended Texas A&M University where she received a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies/Math. She then went on to become a licensed realtor.
Where is she now: Emilie is currently the Vice
President of Residential Sales at Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper. Emilie and her family reside in Boerne, Texas where she is a mother to four boys and two girls. EAGLE
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TISHA HARPER KRAUSE ’90
JENNIFER TEAGUE BUCHANAN ’90
Who: SBS Alumna, Alumni Parent and Current Parent
Who: SBS Alumna
While at SBS: Tisha attended Second Baptist School
While at SBS: Jennifer is an SBS Lifer and during her
from sixth through twelfth grade. During her time at SBS, she was the Student Council Representative for her class, on Yearbook Staff, Head Cheerleader, Spanish Club Vice President, played varsity softball and was on Homecoming Court all four years of high school.
Life after SBS: Upon graduating from SBS, Tisha
time at SBS, she was involved in JV volleyball, JV cheer, Spanish Club, Drama Club, Anchor Club, Alpha Omega, Yearbook, YoungLife, varsity softball and was Head Cheerleader.
Life after SBS: Jennifer graduated from Texas Tech
attended Houston Baptist University and worked in the financial services industry for years before staying at home to raise her two daughters, Ali ’15 and Katelyn ’23.
University before becoming a social worker for two years. She then went on to receive a teaching certificate in special education and has taught special education math at the high school, middle school and elementary levels.
Where is she now: Tisha continues to be an active member of the SBS community through her daughters who were and are active in the sports and cheer programs at SBS. Tisha says “I was fortunate to be involved in many of the activities that SBS offered during my school career, but I feel privileged to be a part of my children’s activities as well.” In addition to being Ali and Katelyn’s biggest fan, Tisha also serves on and is a valuable member of the SBS Alumni Board.
Where is she now: Jennifer is currently teaching special education math for grades 1-5 in Cy-Fair ISD, where she has also lived for 20+ years. She was married to Todd Buchanan for 19 years before he passed away of a heart condition in 2016. Jennifer has two children, Zachary (20) and Haley (15) who is a freshman in high school and active in volleyball. In her free time, Jennifer still loves seeing old SBS friends, spending time with family, walking, trying new restaurants and traveling.
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F I R ST G R A D UAT I N G C L A S S O F S B S – C L A S S O F 1 9 8 2
CHARLES BACARISSE ’82 Who: SBS Alumnus and Alumni Parent, Member of the first graduating class of Second Baptist School
While at SBS: Charles Bacarisse attended SBS from tenth
through twelfth grade. He was the Class President, played basketball his sophomore year and was a manager his senior year and lettered in baseball all three years. Charles acted in the first SBS theatre productions Our Town and The Importance of Being Earnest, and was the first SBS student to cross the graduation stage.
Life after SBS: Charles holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political
Science and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communications from Southern Methodist University. He worked in the White House Office of Media Relations for President Ronald Reagan and as Assistant Director of the Office of Public Liaison for President George H.W. Bush. He went on to serve with the Harris County Judge from 1990-1994. Charles was also elected to the Office of District Clerk for four consecutive terms.
Where is he now: Charles is currently the Director for Major Gifts for Houston Baptist University. He and his wife, Jana Fay, have two children Charles and Ellen ’17.
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CRAIG MORITZ ’82 Who: SBS Alumnus and Alumni Parent, Member of the first graduating class of Second Baptist School
While at SBS: Craig Moritz attended SBS from ninth through twelfth grade. During his time at SBS, he was involved in Drama Club as well as the first SBS theatre productions, Newspaper Staff, played varsity basketball, varsity baseball, cross-country and was the Fellowship of Christian Athletes President.
Life after SBS: Craig went on to attend Stephen F. Austin State University where he received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance. He spent most of his career managing conferences and exhibitions in the energy industries around the world in 28 countries and 6 continents. He spent 10 years managing the sales and exhibition for the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, the largest oil & gas event in the world as well as numerous other events. Craig married Leslie Sims, and they have 2 children, Ryan and Lindsey ’14, both of whom attended SBS. Leslie worked at Second Baptist Church in the Family Life Center for a number of years. Where is he now: Craig is currently working with Vision Source managing several projects for the 3,200 Vision Source members around the country. Craig and Leslie attend SBC and have been involved in numerous ministries over the years. He still plays softball in the SBC summer leagues and leads a morning bootcamp that keeps him fit for the next softball season. He is a mentor with SpringSpirit and has most recently put together a non-profit organization, Residents for Responders, for the benefit of local police officers. 75TH ANNIVERSARY 2022 113
BRANT DURRETT III ’82 Who: SBS Alumnus and Alumni Parent, Member of the first graduating class of Second Baptist School
While at SBS: Brant Durrett attended SBS from tenth
through eleventh grade, before graduating early to attend Baylor University. During his time at SBS, Brant served on the Eagle Action Newspaper as a photographer as well as Yearbook, and played varsity basketball and varsity baseball.
Life after SBS: Brant attended Baylor University where
he received a Bachelor of Arts in English and then went on to the University of Mississippi School of Law. He began his legal career as an associate with Fouts & Moore, LLP. In that capacity, he worked exclusively in the firm’s business litigation section. He left Fouts and Moore in November 1991 and started his own firm.
Where is he now: Brant has been practicing law for over 32 years and is currently an attorney with Durrett Law Firm where he represents policyholders, individual and small businesses in litigation to resolve disputes with insurers. Brant and his wife, Shari ’84, currently reside in Houston as well as their daughter and SBS Lifer, Hailie ’09. EAGLE
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BEN YOUNG ’82 Who: SBS Alumnus and Alumni Parent, Member of the first graduating class of Second Baptist School
While at SBS: Ben Young attended SBS from tenth through twelfth grade. During his time at SBS, he was the basketball captain and voted as basketball MVP. He was involved in the first theatre productions, was Student Council President and Newspaper Editor and served on the Homecoming and Prom Committees.
Life after SBS: Upon graduation, Dr. Ben Young
attended Baylor University, Southwestern Theological Seminary and Bethel Theological Seminary in San Diego. He has hosted a nationally syndicated radio talk show for years and has served as chaplain for the Houston Astros. He is also the author of several books, including Room for Doubt, Devotions for Dating Couples and Survive the Day.
Where is he now: Ben is currently a pastor at Second Baptist Church, as well as an adjunct professor at Houston Theological Seminary where he teaches homiletics, apologetics and practical theology. He is the father to two SBS alumni, Nicole ’14 and Claire ’17.
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CINDY BLADES Who: SBS Faculty, Former SBS Student While at SBS: Cindy Blades began her
career at Second Baptist School in the fall of 1981 and directed the first SBS theatre production, Our Town, that same semester. Cindy is responsible for co-writing the SBS Fight Song and directing the first SBS musical, The Music Man, in 1986. Except for a short leave to raise her four children, Joe ’03, Travis ’06, Christiana ’08 and Jason ’11, Cindy has been a part of almost every theatre production at Second Baptist School. Under her direction, the SBS Arts Department has won several TAPPS and state championship awards, as well as the prestigious Tommy Tune Awards, including Best Direction for The Boyfriend.
Where is she now: Cindy is still a
member of the Second Baptist faculty where she is beloved by her students and peers. Mrs. Blades is now the Director of Arts at SBS and teaches Honors Theatre in the Upper School where she serves as the director of upper school dramas and musicals.
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ISAIAH MCDUFFIE ’11 Who: SBS Alumnus
While at SBS: Isaiah McDuffie attended
Second Baptist School from tenth through twelfth grade. During his time at SBS, Isaiah was involved in varsity football where he was named captain and was on leadership council, served at Animal Rescue, Service with a Heart and was a Yellowstone Prayer Partner.
Life after SBS: Upon graduating from
Second Baptist School, Isaiah became a Certified Process Server for the state of Texas and continues to work for the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department.
Where is he now: Isaiah and his wife, Alyssa, reside in Houston and are expecting their first daughter in the summer of 2022. Isaiah recently graduated from the University of Houston - Clearlake where he was studying Criminology, and he looks forward to teaching and coaching high school football. Isaiah remains active in the SBS community through substitute teaching in the upper school over the years and is a valuable member of the SBS Alumni Board. He has a strong passion for motivating kids, teaching life lessons and showing them the love of Christ.
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MARGARET HARTMAN ’13 Who: SBS Alumna
While at SBS: Margaret Hartman
attended Second Baptist School from fourth through twelfth grade. During her time at SBS, she was involved with varsity cheer, stage crew, National Honor Society, Key Club, varsity swim, Shadow Club and was Head Prefect and Homecoming Queen her senior year.
Life after SBS: Margaret received her
Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Honors and Finance at Texas A&M University, where she was a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority and served as President. She then went on to work for Hines in their real estate investment group.
Where is she now: Margaret is currently an associate for Hartman Income REIT and remains active in the Second community by speaking to and mentoring students, and is also a valuable member of the SBS Alumni Board.
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SARAH HARMEYER ’95 Who: SBS Alumna While at SBS: Sarah Harmeyer attended Second Baptist School from ninth through twelfth grade. During her time at SBS, Sarah was involved with Student Council–serving as President and Spiritual Life Chairman, softball, volleyball, Anchor Club and YoungLife.
Life after SBS: Sarah received her undergraduate
degree from Ouachita Baptist University and her masters degree from Henderson State University. After graduation, she returned to teach at SBS and then joined the SBC staff working for a total of seven years. She went on to work more than a decade for ALSAC/ St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital where she served as a regional event specialist, major gifts advisor and philanthropic advisor. In pursuit of a lifetime of learning, Sarah has also received certificates from Rice University and Cornell University.
Where is she now: Sarah has lived in Dallas since 2010 and is the founder of Neighbor’s Table. She is one of the country’s most respected voices advocating for more connected communities. She is equal parts entrepreneur, community leader and communicator. Neighbor’s Table makes handcrafted tables and Sarah personally delivers these tables across the country. She often shares her story from the stage, ranging from church gatherings to arenas full of thousands. When Sarah is home, she enjoys the whimsy and imagination of her four year old niece.
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DR. B. JANE HURSEY
Who: Former SBS Superintendent, 1991-2005 While at SBS: Dr. B. Jane Hursey joined Second Baptist
School as Superintendent in 1991 and remained in that position until 2005. During her time at SBS, the school won 14 athletic state championships, 3 TAPPS Overall School Awards and was ranked number 3 as one of the largest Houston-Area Private Schools by the Houston Business Journal. The upper school added AP courses, started a marching band and women’s soccer team all under her leadership. In conjunction with Second Baptist Church, Dr. Hursey was a part of a financial campaign that opened the Woliver-Anderson Library, renovated the upper school locker rooms, provided a new weight room, furnished state of the art science labs, created a language lab modeled after the labs at Rice University and provided supporting classroom technology throughout the upper school. Dr. Hursey was known for her genuine love for every student and her ability to encourage them to reach their highest potential. She always took time to talk to the students and knew them by name. She frequently attended their extracurricular events, oftentimes wearing her famous “Eagle” hats. Those who worked with Dr. Hursey describe her as incredibly kind and that she had a wonderful sense of humor, that there was never a dull moment around her. She is remembered for her remarkable and consistent leadership, and someone who shined the love of Christ and created a loving culture for both faculty and students. Dr. Hursey left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her and she made a difference in many lives. During her 14 year tenure at SBS, approximately 1,400 students made a profession of faith in Jesus Christ.
Where is she now: Upon leaving Second Baptist School, Dr. Hursey moved to Darlington, South Carolina to work in the Darlington County School District where she served as The Director of Human Resources before being named Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. After almost 50 years in education, Dr. Hursey retired in 2021.
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2016 2014
JEFF SCHROEDER Who: SBS Coach and Staff
Where is he now: Jeff has remained on the SBS
2004 1999
staff for 33 years. He is currently the Middle School Director of Athletics as well as the Middle School Assistant Football Coach and Varsity Softball Assistant Coach. Jeff’s wife, Barb, served on the Second Baptist Church staff for many years and now works as an Event Coordinator in the school’s Advancement Office. Barb and Jeff have two children who are SBS alumni, Dillon ’14 and Kendall ’17.
2002
Second Baptist School coaching staff in 1989 as the head baseball coach and remained in that position until 2016. Under his coaching direction, the SBS baseball team went on to win 5 state championships (2002, 2004, 2006, 2014, 2016) and 4 state runner up titles. Coach Schroeder was also a part of the 1999 varsity football state championship team and the 2021 women’s softball state championship team as assistant coach. Eight Second Baptist School baseball athletes went on to the MLB draft, 5 played at a professional level and 60 went on to play at the collegiate level under his watch. Outside of coaching, Jeff has held many valuable positions during his time at SBS such as athletic director, director of spiritual development and middle school dean of students. He has won numerous awards and honors for his leadership in athletics such as TAPPS Male Coach of the Year, TAPPS Baseball Coach of the Year and Texas Private School All Star Game Head Coach just to name a few. Coach Schroeder is known for his many athletic accomplishments, but also for being a spiritual leader and mentor to his peers and students.
2006
While at SBS: Jeff Schroeder started on the
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CHRISTINE YOUNGHARRIS ’97 Who: SBS Alumna
While at SBS: Christine Young-Harris
was an SBS Lifer and during her time at SBS she was involved with Anchor Club, Model UN, the Regal Eagles dance team, the spring musicals, Yearbook, Student Life, French Club, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta and Student Council.
Life after SBS: Christine graduated
from Duke University with a degree in political science, women’s studies and religion and later received her master’s in security studies and Russian area studies from Georgetown University. She went on to serve in various national security roles in the US government, including as a military analyst for the intelligence community and an advisor for the White House Coordinator for Defense Policy, Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction and Arms Control on the National Security Council.
Where is she now: Christine continues to work in national security as a manager in the US intelligence community. She currently lives just outside of Washington, DC, in Arlington, Virginia, with her husband, two stepsons, and yellow labrador retriever.
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JULIAN CASTRO ’17 Who: SBS Alumnus
While at SBS: Julian Castro attended
SBS from ninth through twelfth grade. During his time at SBS, he was involved in Science Club, Science National Honor Society, Spanish Club, Robotics Society, Chess Club, varsity soccer, and was varsity swim captain and MVP.
Life after SBS: Julian attended Baylor University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering. While there, Julian was the Team Lead of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Robotics Team.
Where is he now: Julian currently resides in Austin, Texas where he is a software developer for Accenture.
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JASON KATES ’97 Who: SBS Alumnus and Current Parent While at SBS: Jason is an SBS Lifer and during his time at SBS, Jason was involved in Key Club, varsity basketball, varsity baseball, Spanish Club, National Honor Society, Eagle Guard, Yearbook Editor, Mu Alpha Theta and was his class salutatorian.
Life after SBS: Jason attended the University of Texas at Austin and then went on to work for Southwest Precision Printers and BBVA. He also received a Bachelors of Business Administration from Western Governors University.
Where is he now: Jason is the Vice President of
Alloy Metals and Tubes International and remains an active member of the Second community through both the church and school. His wife, Janel, is a PK4 teacher at Second Baptist School and their three children, Jonah ’29, Joanna ’31 and Joy ’33 all attend SBS.
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JUSTIN KATES ’99 Who: SBS Alumnus and Current Parent While at SBS: Justin Kates is an SBS Lifer and during his time at SBS, was involved with varsity golf, Chess Club, Spanish Club, Eagle Guard, Yearbook, Student Life and was the varsity swim captain.
Life after SBS: Justin attended Baylor
University where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication. He went on to work in sales and operations at Ferguson Enterprises and then was the Director of Marketing & Business Development for Alloy Metals and Tubes International for over 11 years.
Where is he now: Justin currently works in
strategic business development for Corrosion Resistant Alloys, LP. His wife, Lana, teaches third grade at the SBSUM – Cypress campus where two of their daughters are students. Justin and Lana have three girls, Libby ’30, Evie ’34 and Shelby. They are active members of Second Baptist Church – Cypress, where Lana serves as a Bible study teacher and Justin is a Deacon.
JORDAN KATES BOWLING ’04 Who: SBS Alumna and Current Parent While at SBS: Jordan is an SBS Lifer and
during her time at SBS was involved with National Honor Society, Key Club, Los Tertulianos, Student Leadership Team, was a Homecoming Princess nominee, played varsity volleyball, varsity basketball and was the varsity track captain and named track MVP.
Life after SBS: Jordan received her Bachelor
of Science in Kinesiology from Louisiana State University. She went on to become a medical assistant working in both cardiology and orthopedics. Before having kids, she finished her time in the medical field as clinical assistant at the Bone and Joint Clinic of Houston.
Where is she now: Jordan and her husband, Warren, currently reside in Houston with their three children, Cooper ’34, Olivia and Callie. Cooper is currently a student at SBSUM – Memorial campus and Olivia will be starting SBSUM as a Pre-K student in the fall of 2022.
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ELSA JEAN LOOSER Who: SBS Former Faculty
While at SBS: Elsa Jean Looser joined Second Baptist
School in the fall of 1984 as the head of the upper school English department. At the time, there were only 19 students in the senior class, no AP courses, no retreats, no overseas travel and no specific college guidance program. Elsa Jean envisioned the potential for growth and development in the upper school and she played a central role in creating four critical programs that remain strong today – Senior Retreat, the Advanced Placement Program, overseas travel for upper school students which would become a staple in Interim Term and the College Guidance Department. Outside of her many professional accomplishments, Elsa Jean was known for her discernment on meeting the needs of her students. Whether struggling academically, personally or spiritually, she was always intentional on lifting up and encouraging any student who needed it. In 2006, a need-based scholarship, the Elsa Jean Looser Scholarship Fund, was established in her name to financially assist students who would otherwise not be able to attend SBS. The programs and legacy that she left has and continues to have an impact on thousands of students.
CAROL WARE Who: SBS Former Faculty, Longest serving SBS Faculty Member
While at SBS: Carol Ware joined Second Baptist School’s
mathematics department in 1974, when the school had a large enough enrollment to need full-time teachers in the area of mathematics, English, history and science. During her first year, Carol taught math to sixth through ninth grade students. After Dr. Young came to Second Baptist in 1978, the decision was made to build SBS one year at a time until it had the twelfth grade. Carol had five different preparations the year she taught grades 8-12 grade: Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 and Elementary Analysis. Although she was in charge of so many classes, Carol was known for amazingly returning students’ papers back to them by the next day and was famous for using advanced technology such as her overhead projector in the classroom. In the fall of 1994, Carol transitioned out of teaching and became the school’s first registrar. She is remembered by her students as being a teacher who truly wanted you to succeed and was a wise counselor and mentor,
Where is she now: In 1997, Elsa Jean left Second Baptist School to retire; however, in 2010, she returned to education for two years to help establish a high school guidance program at First Baptist Academy. Elsa Jean and her husband, Dr. Don Looser, reside in Houston where he is the Vice President Emeritus of Houston Baptist University. Dr. and Mrs. Looser have a son, SBS alumnus Greg Looser ’87. Greg is a Second Baptist School Distinguished Alumni award recipient, and he is married to SBS alumna Beth (Brock) Looser ’85. EAGLE
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DARLA SHIRLEY Who: SBS Former Faculty
While at SBS: Darla Shirley joined Second Baptist always full of encouraging words. Those she worked with described her as always being incredibly reliable, extraordinarily organized and one who brought a sense of peace and calmness to any situation. Carol is known by the entire Second community as someone who is kind, generous and has a sincere love and faithfulness to Second Baptist School and Second Baptist Church.
Where is she now: After 45 years of service to Second Baptist School, Carol retired in the spring of 2019. She remains active with SBS through helping with PSAT, extended time and AP testing. For over 30 years, she has been a member of the Woodway Worship Choir at Second Baptist Church in the alto section, and volunteers working in the music library and serving on the Logistics Team. She also remains a beloved and active volunteer in the church business office. 75TH ANNIVERSARY 2022
School as a fourth grade teacher in the fall of 1988. After two years of teaching, she moved into the role of upper school counselor and then became the head of upper school. Among many wonderful traits, Darla was known by her students and peers for her amazing sense of humor and her ability to connect with students. She once said during her time here that she “feels that in working with young people my job has true meaning. Young people have so much to offer – they teach me more about living than I could ever teach them. Young people are my mission, my ministry.” Darla is still remembered today by those who worked with her as someone who is not only quick witted and wise, but as someone who made a lasting impact on so many students’ lives.
Where is she now: Darla left SBS in 1999. In 2006, she went to Memorial High School as a counselor and served at MHS for ten years, six of which were in the position of lead and post secondary counselor. She is now working as an independent college guidance counselor, and resides in Houston with her husband, James. Darla and James share two sons together, Drew and Bart and are proud grandparents to 3 grandchildren. 129
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KIMBERLY & DAVID DOMINY Who: SBS Alumni Parents
While at SBS: In 1992, the Dominys enrolled their son
Drake ’06 in pre-kindergarten at Second Baptist School, beginning a long-term partnership with SBS. Soon after, they enrolled Dalton ’08 and Kirstyn ’10 and all three children graduated as Lifers. While their children were enrolled at SBS, Kimberly and David were involved in many capacities at the school. The pair gave generously of their time and talent as presidents of the Parents Association, chairmen of the Distinguished Speaker Luncheon, hospitality chairmen, auction chairmen and underwriting chairmen of Friends of the Arts. In addition, they served on the development committee for many years. Kimberly also volunteered as homeroom mom, grade-level chairman and field day chairman. Not a year went by that Kimberly and David couldn’t be found serving the school while a Dominy was enrolled.
Life after SBS: After their children graduated from
Second Baptist School, Kimberly and David remained active with the SBS community, especially through the annual Distinguished Speaker event. Not only do the Dominys continue to support the SBS faculty and staff to this day as underwriters and guests of this event, but they were also honored as the Second Baptist School Distinguished Alumni Parents in 2018.
Where are they now: Kimberly and David currently reside in Houston where David works as the managing director of valuation and advisory services at Jones Lang Lasalle. The Dominys have and continue to serve on many boards and associations throughout the Houston area and are active members and volunteers at Second Baptist Church. The couple spends free time together traveling, gushing over their grandchildren and enjoying the company of family and friends.
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DRAKE DOMINY ’06 Who: SBS Alumnus
While at SBS: Drake Dominy is an SBS Lifer and during
his time at SBS, was involved with National Honor Society, Key Club, Spanish Club, Financial Club, Yearbook Staff, varsity football and was the varsity golf captain.
Life after SBS: Drake went on to attend Baylor
University where he received a business degree in real estate and finance. Upon graduating from Baylor, he worked with ARA Newmark on their multifamily investment sales team and then as a multifamily developer with Greystar.
Where is he now: Drake is currently the Director of Real Estate Investments for Memorial Hermann’s endowment. Drake and his wife, Phoebe, reside in Houston and have one son, David “Drake” Dominy, Jr. Their family remains active members of Second Baptist Church.
DALTON DOMINY ’08 Who: SBS Alumnus
While at SBS: Dalton Dominy is an SBS Lifer and during his time at SBS, was involved in varsity football, varsity golf, Financial Club, Chess Club, was Key Club President and a Fighting Eagle Award recipient.
Life after SBS: Dalton attended Baylor University where he
received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Real Estate. Upon graduating, Dalton joined the United States Marine Corps where he served for almost nine years as an Infantry Officer in Hawaii, California and North Carolina.
Where is he now: Dalton left Active Duty in 2021, moving
his family back to the Houston area to continue government service. He and his wife, Claire, have three children who have begun the next generation of Dominys at Second Baptist School: Madelyn ’36, Ford and Margaret. Their family remains active with Second Baptist Church.
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KIRSTYN DOMINY DUNCAN ’10 Who: SBS Alumna and Current SBS Faculty
While at SBS: Kristyn Dominy is an SBS Lifer and during her
time at SBS, was involved in National Honor Society, Science Club, Key Club, Vision Choir, Yearbook Advertisement Editor and was the varsity tennis captain and Student Council Service Chairman.
Life after SBS: Kirstyn attended Baylor University where she
graduated with a degree in elementary education. She went on to teach third grade at Hunters Creek Elementary for five years, and married SBS alumnus, Chris Duncan ’09, in 2014.
Where is she now: Kirstyn and her husband, Chris ’09, currently reside in Houston where she is a lower school teaching assistant at Second Baptist School. Kirstyn and Chris have one daughter, Kathryn Gail, and both remain involved at Second Baptist Church.
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ADAM HAMMER ’12 Who: SBS Alumnus
While at SBS: Adam Hammer attended
Second Baptist School from eighth through twelfth grade. During his time at SBS, Adam was involved with the National Honor Society, Vision Choir, Key Club, Student Council, Debate Club, Young Politicians, Model UN, varsity soccer, varsity tennis, varsity track, was a varsity football captain and the Academic Prefect.
Life after SBS: Adam attended Wake
Forest University where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Politics and International Affairs and graduated Summa Cum Laude. Adam went on to work for Goldman Sachs in New York City, and received his Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Global Affairs from Yale University.
Where is he now: Adam currently
resides in Washington, D.C. where he is the Managing Director & Head of Strategy at Schmidt Futures, a venture facility for public benefit founded by former CEO of Google, Eric Schmidt. Adam remains an avid Houston Texans fan, loves reading biographies and plays in local soccer and tennis leagues in D.C. He is also a member of the Navy Reserves.
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I grew up in many places, and arrived at Second Baptist School unsure of what it would mean to make a home in a singular place. During my 15 years prior to SBS, I moved around often. I lived abroad with my family across seven countries, never knowing a community for more than a few years, sometimes months. Expatriate kids like me tend to make what I call “goldilocks” relationships — deep enough to build rapport, but thin enough to soften the sting of leaving. As a result, my concept of community was thin and my roots were shallow. SBS taught me something unique about human connection and community. I learned an important distinction between meeting a person and knowing a person; between a passing wave across the boxwoods and a real conversation at the dinner table. Second Baptist School’s social fabric encouraged me to build relationships with classmates, teachers and coaches that I still cherish today. Second Baptist School is a place that roots you. It teaches us to know our neighbors and prepares us to find the familiar in the unlike. It challenges a generation that prizes individuality to choose to build community, not by surrendering what makes us unique, but by embracing what binds us together. And though Second Baptist School is not perfect — no community is — it is nonetheless strikingly human. Your time at SBS is personal, while the world that many graduates will enter is especially institutional. It’s here that SBS teaches you something beyond Hamlet or calculus; it teaches you to make the institutional feel more personal. I’ve come to understand that lesson as the crucible of an SBS education. Over the past year, I was reminded of what I learned at SBS. We live amidst a crisis of connection, aggravated by a global pandemic that atomized us. Amid remote learning and work, we discovered that technology brings us closer to those far away and, oftentimes, farther from those close to us. As we all come back from a year of distance, the lessons learned at SBS — namely the art of fostering and building community — are more important than ever. At Second, I experienced the joy of forgetting where the self ends and something greater begins. I now carry that sense of community wherever I go.
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CELEBRATING TH
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E CLASS OF 2022
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2022
COMMENCEMENT
Second Baptist School celebrated the forty-first graduating class during its 75th year. It was easy to celebrate a class with so much spirit, charisma and drive. “You are an incredible group of young men and women who are ready and equipped to take on the world,” Head of School Jon Konzelman said to the Class of 2022. “I couldn’t be more proud to watch you soar into this next step.” The Commencement Ceremony exuded pride as the SBS family celebrated its next graduating class. Cameron Kelley ’22 gave the Invocation to begin the ceremony, thanking those who have supported the soon-to-be graduates. “On behalf of my class, I would like to thank all the family members, friends and faculty who have traveled both near and far to be here with us today. Your constant support, valuable lessons, ceaseless patience and unconditional love have made us the high school graduates who sit in front of you today.” Following a special performance of “Amazing Grace” by the Select Vision Choir, the salutatorian and valedictorian gave their speeches. Salutatorian Jojo Kim ’22 eloquently compared the four years of upper school to the movements of a symphony, ending with the grande finale: senior year. Valedictorian Naomi Konuma ’22 took the time to thank many influential people, from family to teachers, and also reflected on the unique qualities of the Class of 2022 and their years at SBS. Quoting upper school teacher Geoff Brooks, “A lot of success can be as simple as a choice,” said Noami. “Today, Class of 2022, as we knock on destiny’s door, I want to tell you that a lot
of success can be as simple as a choice. You can choose to take that more challenging course. You can choose to do those extra reps. You can choose to go out of your way to serve others.” She concluded, “Class of 2022, let’s choose to conquer the days that lie ahead.” Fittingly, this year’s commencement address was given by the valedictorian of the first graduating class of Second Baptist School, Dr. Ben Young ’82. He reminded students to seek not a title, but a testimony, encouraging them to be “overcomers” who rely on the Lord throughout their lives. Following his address, Head of School Dr. Don Davis spoke of the many accolades and accomplishments of the Class of 2022. From state championships to national merit scholars, the list was long and impressive. “Class of 2022, during your time at SBS you have left an indelible mark on our school,” said Dr. Davis. “You have lived out our values centering your life on Christ, pursuing excellence in all things, while caring deeply for one another. May you constantly be aware of God’s presence as you embark on this exciting new chapter. And remember, if you walk with Jesus you will never be alone.” As the Class of 2022 processed across the stage, received their diplomas and tossed their caps into the air, they were reminded this is not the end, but a new beginning, and they’ll always have a home at Second Baptist. Congratulations Class of 2022!
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Second Baptist School Class of 2022
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Class of 2022 Francisco Alexis Ayala* Summa Cum Laude Drexel University Raquel Mia Bagwell* Cum Laude Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Luella Tiffany Bakker-Barrink Southern Methodist University Alexander John Barrera* Summa Cum Laude Texas Christian University Molly Elizabeth Beeckman* Magna Cum Laude Louisiana State University
Matthew Cole Cross Undecided Joan Jacqueline Darnall* Summa Cum Laude University of Mississippi Kate Muriel Davidson* Summa Cum Laude Baylor University Rose Abigail Dearing* Magna Cum Laude Texas Christian University Isabella Sophia DePaolis* Summa Cum Laude Baylor University
Andrew Dariush Boujabadi Texas Tech University
William David Echols* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Rylee Peyton Brooks Truett McConnell University
Patrick John Elder* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Kelsie Lyn Burns* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University Chloe Anna Burton* Summa Cum Laude Texas Christian University Caroline Teague Chapman* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University Tanner Allen Chapman* Summa Cum Laude Rhodes College Schuyler Thomas Clark* Summa Cum Laude Washington & Lee University Julia Kistine Cleveland Texas State University Reid Matthews Cordell* Summa Cum Laude University of Texas Joseph Austin Courtney* Magna Cum Laude Clemson University Kennedy Grace Crites* Summa Cum Laude Belmont University
Camila Maria Engler* Summa Cum Laude University of Texas Ellie Grace Eschweiler* Summa Cum Laude Baylor University Promise Corder Facciponte* Summa Cum Laude University of Miami Kendall Grace Felton* Magna Cum Laude Spelman College Ryan William Gamble* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University Emma Carolina Garcia* Summa Cum Laude Texas State University Alexis Eve Gill* Summa Cum Laude University of Texas Riley Thomas Good* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
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Rebekah Kathryn Gray* Summa Cum Laude Boston Conservatory Henry Price Harris* Summa Cum Laude Auburn University Colin Andrew Hedges* Cum Laude Lamar University Abbey Wyatt Herndon* Cum Laude Baylor University William Hancock Huthnance* Summa Cum Laude University of Mississippi Kate Prather Kell* Summa Cum Laude University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Cameron Michela Kelley* Summa Cum Laude Vanderbilt University Grayson Alexander Kim* Summa Cum Laude University of Texas Jeffrey Josiah JungHoon Kim* Summa Cum Laude Northwestern University Daniel Lee Klein* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University Naomi Konuma* Summa Cum Laude University of Texas Eunjun Lim* Summa Cum Laude University of Texas Ava Grace Loveless* Summa Cum Laude University of Texas Hunter Wilton Loveless* Summa Cum Laude University of Texas Ariana Elyse Luman* Magna Cum Laude San Diego State University
Grace Ann Lunsford* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Leighton Kenneth Reddy* Summa Cum Laude University of Texas, Tyler
Danielle Caroline Tackett* Summa Cum Laude Auburn University
Autumn Alaine Malone* Summa Cum Laude Baylor University
Courtney Christine Reppert* Summa Cum Laude University of Georgia
Stanford Trace Tarkington* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Kate Ashlynn Manning* Magna Cum Laude University of Oklahoma
Andrew James Rivers Samford University
Bradley Clark Taylor* Summa Cum Laude Washington University in St. Louis
Elijah David Marrero Texas A&M University
Nina Louise Robert* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Promise Ugeze Matthew* Summa Cum Laude Baylor University
Lucas Uuno Mathias Sahinen Cum Laude Texas A&M Corpus Christi
Daniel Roshan Michael* Cum Laude Baylor University
Cole Alvis Satterwhite* Magna Cum Laude Texas State University
Jett McClain Motley* Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Julia Marie Sauvageau* Cum Laude University of Mississippi
Elijah Jean Mouton Undecided
Christian James Schmidt Baylor University
Taylor Nicole Nunes* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Elaine Jeanette Sims University of Arkansas
Cooper Grayson Patterson* Magna Cum Laude Texas A&M University Jacob Ray Pedersen* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University Connor Lee Pieprzyca* Magna Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Noah Fisher Weisser* Summa Cum Laude Colorado School of Mines Emma Nicole Wentz* Summa Cum Laude University of Tennessee Jordan Williams* Cum Laude Texas A&M University Robert Alexander Williams* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Julia Elizabeth Skyles* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Darius Demond Willis Texas Tech University
Rebecca Eleanor Sloan* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University Elijah L. Smith* Summa Cum Laude Villanova University
Helena Marie Platis* Magna Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Kennedy Marie Smith* Magna Cum Laude Baylor University
Grace Joan Pollock* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Mallory Young Smith* Summa Cum Laude Baylor University
Justus Michael Prothro* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Peter Evan Steelman* Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University 7 5 T H SA UNM NM I VEERR S2 A0 R2 Y1 2 0 1 4232
Eva Marie-Anne Veeningen* Summa Cum Laude Purdue University Caleb Reilly Vinson* Summa Cum Laude Clemson University
Everett Graham Skillern* Cum Laude Brown University
Madison Ann Pierce Colorado State University
Caitlin Susan Torn* Cum Laude Texas A&M University
Brandon Valentine Young* Summa Cum Laude Rhodes College Lance Hughes Young* Cum Laude Texas A&M University * National Honor Society Member
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Class of 2022 87%
1252
MAINTAINED A CUMULATIVE GPA
CLASS OF 2022’S
OF
AVERAGE SAT SCORE
5
3.5
OR HIGHER
NATIONAL MERIT COMMENDED SCHOLARS AND
IN COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES,
210 458
RECEIVING
40 11
3
SENIORS
WERE AWARDED AP SCHOLAR HONORS
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLAR FINALISTS
16 million dollars
CLASS OF 2022 BROKE EVERY RECORD
APPLYING TO OVER
16
OF THE GRADUATES
TOTAL ACADEMIC, PERFORMING ARTS
SCHOOLS AND
AND ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIPS
ACCEPTANCES
OFFERED TO CLASS OF 2022
SENIORS PARTICIPATED IN VISION AND REFLECTION CHOIRS
SENIORS WERE
SELECTED TO THE
PRESTIGIOUS TMEA ALL REGION, ALL AREA, AND
SBS EARNED
7 4
AWARDS
IN THE TAPPS ONE ACT PLAY COMPETITION,
OF THOSE
WERE SENIORS
ALL STATE CHOIRS
3
SENIORS EARNED TOMMY TUNE
NOMINATIONS FOR THEIR PERFORMANCES IN
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B Y
52
T H E
N U M B E R S
STUDENT-ATHLETES EARNED ACADEMIC ALL-STATE HONORS,
33
SENIORS EARNED RECOGNITION
FOR THEIR ATHLETIC ACCOMPLISHMENTS AT THE ALL-DISTRICT LEVEL AND
17
6
28
WERE SENIORS
SENIORS WILL COMPETE IN
COLLEGIATE ATHLETICS NEXT
YEAR;
AT THE ALL-STATE LEVEL
4
WILL COMPETE AT THE
DIVISION 1 LEVEL
THE GOLF TEAM FINISHED THIRD IN STATE THIS YEAR OUR WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM WAS DISTRICT CHAMPIONS 4 YEARS IN A ROW AND PLAYED IN THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME THE LAST 3 SEASONS ONE SENIOR EARNED 4 STATE RUNNER-UP TITLES WITH THE GOLDEN GIRLS DANCE TEAM
11
SENIORS LED OUR FOOTBALL TEAM TO OUR FIRST STATE
CHAMPIONSHIP APPEARANCE SINCE 1999
7
SENIORS LED OUR VOLLEYBALL TEAM TO THE STATE FINAL FOUR FOR
7
SENIORS AND THEIR TEAMMATES BROUGHT HOME THE
THE FIRST TIME IN DECADE
TAPPS Division II Baseball State Championship title! 75TH ANNIVERSARY 2022
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The Class of 2022
By Valedictorian Naomi Konuma ’22
Potential, this one word defines the Class of ’22. It has been a long journey for both me and you. Whether Eagles since lower, middle or high school, Your education I hope you’ll use as a tool. Many of us cherish memories of the rocky playground; Our competitiveness in matball the coaches would astound. EAGLE
Acorns we hunted and infinity square we created, For middle school and new laptops we eagerly awaited. After those mad minutes, Flat Stanleys and Jesus Freak, It was time to meet Lance, who was still quiet and meek. Middle school meant lockers, braces and Woodway Village. And let’s not forget that dreadful mercury spillage. 146
Our E Building adventure began with Freshman Retreat, At our Friday night lights, we watched our football team compete. We had school dances and biology pig dissections. Our Hunter’s Creek Hillbillies caused other teams’ subjections. Junior year, we banged our heads on the wall called SATs. We’ve come a long way from memorizing the ABCs.
Splendid TED Talks we gave and honors physics barely survived, And oh yes, 2 for 2 powderpuff victories arrived. After 22 years, our football guys made history. Yes, Ms. King is a Russian spy, that is no mystery. How could I ever forget Simo’s questions of the day. Class of 2022, we always succeed and slay.
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Class of 2022
LIFERS
Luella Bakker-Barrink Alex Barrera Dariush Boujabadi Reid Cordell Kennedy Crites
Rose Dearing Bella DePaolis Ryan Gamble Kate Kell Grayson Kim
Josiah Kim Daniel Klein Ava Grace Loveless Hunter Loveless Jett Motley
Jack Prothro Trace Tarkington Caitie Torn Noah Weisser Emma Wentz
Lifers are students who attended Second Baptist School without interruption from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade.
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Second Generation Families
Matt ’88 & Christina Weisser Son: NOAH WEISSER ’22
Alli ’89 & Mark Sepulveda Daughter: MALLORY SMITH ’22
Alex Sims ’96 Daughter: LAINEY SIMS ’22
Kristal ’95 & Travis Crites Daughter: KENNEDY CRITES ’22
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Alumni Notes 1984 HELEN MUKHAR BUCKNER currently works as a Luxury Family Travel Advisor for Ciao Bambino!, where she is able to plan amazing vacations for families all over the world. After traveling to 41 countries herself and being a former teacher, Helen knows both children and the world well and has been able to curate perfect travel experiences for both parents and kids. Helen and her husband, Alan, are currently traveling full-time in their RV as they explore the U.S. Contact Helen at helen@ciaobambino.com if you would like help planning your vacations!
1989 Munger Interiors, owned and founded by SBS alumnae and sisters, AMY MUNGER ’89 and ELIZABETH MUNGER STIVER ’00 was featured in the November/December Southern Home magazine! The feature was done on their sister’s home, ANNE MUNGER FREEMAN ’93, and was the featured cover that month. Munger Interiors is a luxury residential design firm that specializes in creating tailored and timeless interiors. The firm celebrates the flexibility to weave lustrous textiles, rich colors, interesting textures and impactful artwork together to create unique designs. This is not the first time Munger Interiors has been recognized in a publication. They have also been seen in Southern Living, Modern Luxury Interiors Texas, luxe. interior + design, Coastal Living and more.
1990 DR. MAJID BASIT, Interventional Cardiologist, is the current president of the Fort Bend Medical Society and has played an integral role in the medical community throughout the COVID pandemic. Dr. Basit has not only served on the front lines but has been working with the County Health Authority to put on community webinars in which he answers questions about COVID-19 treatments and vaccines. He has also taken action to educate the community about heart health and the importance of not ignoring cardiac symptoms, especially during the pandemic. Thank you Dr. Basit for your service to the community during this pandemic!
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1995 KARA WILLOUGHBY MARSHALL joined the SBS Faculty team in the fall of 2021, where she is teaching middle school technology. Kara and her husband, David, have three beautiful daughters together, AUBREE ’24, KAYLEE ’24 and Rylee.
1996 Congratulations to DAN FINNELL on recently being featured by Voyage KC magazine as a Rising Star in the art industry! Dan is a licensed architect turned creator specializing in watercolor and woodworking. His work has been featured in galleries and exhibitions such as The Rice Gallery of Fine Arts, Jones Gallery and Hotel Vandivort. Dan and his family currently reside in Overland Park, Kansas. You can view his work by visiting www.thedanfinnellstudio.com or follow him on Instagram at @thedanfinnellstudio.
1997 BEAU BELLOW is an Executive Vice President at JLL and also the co-founder of Boomerang Interests, LLC a cold storage development company in Houston. Beau and his wife, RORY BREWTON BELLOW ’01, have been married for ten years and have three children: Collins (8), Spencer (7) and Tripp (2). SHANNON JOHNSON CRANSON completed her first Ironman on October 23, 2021, at the IM Waco! After months and months of training, Shannon took on a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile run. Way to go, Shannon!
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Alumni Notes 1997 MIKE TOMPKINS received his BBA from Baylor University and earned an MBA from the University of Maastricht, Netherlands EU. He specializes in the IT field, and in 2012 he spent time on a US Marine base in Afghanistan as a civilian contractor working as a satellite engineer. Mike is currently working remotely as a Data Engineer for AT&T. He enjoys working and splitting time evenly between the Houston, Hawaii, and Florida areas. In his free time, he likes to grill/ cook from scratch, invest in stocks, YouTube surf, spend time in nature, have lunch with friends, and hangout at the beach.
1998 Pam and BEAU DOLLINS, founders of Paratus Classical Academy, partnered with Second Baptist School to create and open three University-Model campuses in the Houston area. SBSUM opened in Kingwood, Cypress and Memorial in the fall of 2021. Second Baptist School University-Model is founded on our core values of Christcentered education that is academically excellent within a caring community. The goal of the University-Model® system is to provide families with an accessible, biblically-based and excellent education while engaging the community through a full range of student activities, community events, arts and athletics. CHRISTOPHER EARNEST was elected to the Spring Branch ISD Board of Trustees in May 2021, and will serve through 2024. Chris ran to serve as an independent voice on the school board, free of school politics and no agenda except to make sure the SBISD schools have the best teachers and resources available so that every student can succeed. Chris and his wife, MEREDITH SHANKLIN EARNEST ’00, have five children two of whom attend Second Baptist School. Chris and Meredith remain active members of Second Baptist Church and serve as mentors to young married couples.
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2001 Sisters-in-law RACHEL BIBB CONKLING ’01 and WHITNEY CONKLING ’06 combined forces to create “The Conkling Group” realtors at Compass Real Estate in Houston. Rachel has been a Top Producer in Houston for the past 10 years. Whitney has over 7+ years of real estate experience in New York City and Boston. Together they have over 500+ transactions under their belt, over $250M in volume and 17+ years of combined experience. In 2010, JENNIFER MCKENZIE WELKER founded the Houstonbased jewelry brand, Golden Thread. The brand quickly grew to a popular online shop and almost 12 years later on October 14, 2021, Golden Thread opened up their very first brick and mortar retail store! As a mother and former Neonatal ICU Nurse, Jennifer personally designs each piece in their Houston studio with the intent for women to feel effortlessly chic from the daily mundane in the carpool line to the red carpet and everywhere in between. Her desire is for each piece to be packed with heirloom quality, but invaluable in sentiment that would be passed down through the generations. The brand has emerged over the last decade as a celebrity-favorite and media-darling—having been featured in VOGUE, WWD, In Style, People Style Watch and on the TODAY show as well as seen on celebrities such as Pippa Middleton, Taylor Swift and Emma Stone to name a few.
2002 BIANCA BUCARAM, president and senior publicist at BPRG was named by US Reporter as a “Top Business Professional to Know About” in 2022. Bianca is a nationally recognized professional and public relations expert. She founded The Bucaram PR Group, one of the most reputable and celebrity centric public relations firms in the U.S. Bianca creates and executes strategic campaigns for a variety of celebrity talent, non-profit organizations and industry professionals. Based in Houston, Bianca’s firm secures broadcast television coverage, print and digital coverage and works with networks such as CNN, NBC, ABC and FOX.
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Alumni Notes 2002 FARAH DEGANI ESCALONI is currently working as a Senior Environmental Health and Safety Specialist for Academy Sports + Outdoors. She has been married to her husband, David, for ten years and has one daughter, Lillian (5). Farah recently completed her 16th marathon and is training for her 17th that will take place in Chicago this October. She also got a spot in the Berlin Marathon and hopes to run it in 2023! Congratulations Farah! KATIE DUNN KNAPP is a Licensed Professional Counselor at her own private practice, Katie Knapp Therapy, PLLC. She and her husband, Ben, currently reside in Richmond, Texas. Katie and Ben have two children, Brayden Andrew Knapp (4) and Bella Rose Knapp (2). SAM WHITESIDE ’02 and KIMBERLY JONES WHITESIDE ’07 welcomed a son, David Barton, in July 2021! David joins proud big brother, Jay Walden, who will be turning 3 this summer. The Whiteside family is currently residing in Austin, Texas. GRACE TYLER WIGINGTON joined the SBS lower school team in the fall of 2021 as a Pre-K 4 teacher! Grace and her husband, Colin, stay busy with two boys William (8) and Harry (6). Welcome to the SBS faculty team, Grace!
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2003 MARY MARGARET PORTER BROLLIER and her business partner created online shop Scribbled Designs. Both teachers by trade, Mary Margaret and her partner got together during the pandemic to create a way to help families with educational needs. They created educational items like handwriting binders, sight word packs and activity placemats that all come with a personalized touch that kiddos love. Over the last year, the designs took off and they decided to make personalized things for the whole family! They now sell stationery, invitations, holiday cards, notepads, gift tags and more. While they cherish their educational roots, they have loved getting into fun designs for families for the holidays, birthdays and year-round. Natalie and MATT GARZA welcomed daughter, Grace Harrison, on February 24, 2021! Grace weighed 6 pounds and was 18.5 inches long. She joins proud big sister, Camille (3). The Garza family currently resides in Houston where Matt is a Sales Manager for Kirby Offshore Marine and Natalie is a Senior VP at Amegy Bank. Courtney and DAVID TAUBER JR., welcomed a son, David "Trip" Wendle Tauber, III on March 26, 2022! Trip joins proud big sister, Charlotte (2). The Tauber family currently resides in Houston where David is the Executive Vice President of Tauber Oil Company.
2004 After 8 years of serving on the Second Baptist Church staff, RUSSELL DIXON accepted the Senior Pastor position at Sunset Canyon Church in Dripping Springs, Texas. Congratulations to Russell, his wife Liz, and their two boys David and Drew on this new adventure!
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Alumni Notes 2004 ELIZABETH BENJAMIN WADE and husband, Mark, welcomed their daughter, Palmer Catherine, on January 24, 2022! Palmer joins proud siblings Walker (6), Annie (4) and Fielding (2). EMILY WEBSTER WAHL and husband, Kolby, welcomed their son, Walker Richard, on September 2, 2021. Walker was born weighing 8 pounds, 11 ounces and was 20 inches long. Walker joins proud big sister, Annie (3).
2005 SCOTT DANVERS married SBS first grade teacher Jordan Sandefur. The two tied the knot on August 2, 2021, in Shreveport, Louisiana. The wedding party included SBS alums JULIE DANVERS BAUGHMAN ’01 and AMY DANVERS JOHNSON ’03. CATHERINE SCHAPER SCHWEER and husband, Ben, welcomed son, Luke, on October 15, 2021. He joins proud big sisters, ELLE ’35 and LILY ’36. The Schweer family currently resides in Houston where Catherine teaches middle school English at SBS. MEGAN DIXON SMALLEY published Give Grace – How to Embrace the Beauty of Life’s Brokenness. Megan shares her own journey of loss and hope, and how through God’s grace she learned to extend more grace to herself and others with gentleness, compassion and wisdom. Megan is also the CEO of online apparel shop, Scarlet & Gold, and is opening a full service printing, embroidery and design shop in 2022 called Ink & Thread. Megan currently resides in Alabama with her husband, Blake, and their three children.
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2005 Abby and ANDREW THRASHER welcomed their daughter, Elizabeth Mackenzie Thrasher, on June 30, 2021. The Thrasher family currently resides in Indiana where Andrew is a Portfolio Manager for Financial Enhancement Group & Founder of Thrasher Analytics.
2006 WHITNEY CONKLING and husband, Scott Oldebeken, welcomed their daughter, Zoe Dakota, on January 28, 2022. She weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces and was 20.5 inches long. Zoe is Whitney and Scott’s first daughter and she joins proud big brother, Oliver (2). RACHEL TYLER DUNCAN opened the Prickly Pear Boutique in November 2021! Prickly Pear is both an online boutique (pricklypearhtx.com) and in person shopping experience. The Houston based boutique carries gifts and clothes for mamas, babies and friends. Prickly Pear features local artisans, unique finds and the latest fashion trends. In addition to running Prickly Pear, Rachel and her husband, BRIAN DUNCAN ’06, keep busy with their 3 children: VIRGINIA ’34, GEORGE ’36 and Savannah. CHRISTINA GREENE MCALLEN, founder of Christina Greene Jewelry, opened her first retail store in the Rice Village section of Houston on September 1, 2021. Christina’s collection, known for its signature turquoise designs, features both fine and semi-precious jewelry. The new store carries her line as well as a curated selection of clothing, homegoods and more. Additionally, Christina and her husband, David, welcomed their daughter, Marie Ashley, into the world on December 29, 2021! REAGAN REYNOLDS and his wife, Ronnie, welcomed a son, Theodore Paul Reynolds, on December 14, 2021! Theo joins proud big brother, Eli. The Reynolds family is currently residing in Houston where Reagan serves as a Pastor for Second Baptist Church – Cypress.
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Alumni Notes 2006
STEPHANIE BROWNHILL WINTERS and husband, Ronnie, welcomed son, Nash Graham, on March 10, 2021. Nash was born weighing 8 pounds, 10 ounces and was 19 inches long. He joins proud big brothers, Knox and Ford.
2007 ANNABEL FOWLER GATTO and her husband, Philip, welcomed their daughter Helena “Nell’’ Elizabeth Gatto into the world on September 30, 2021! Nell was born at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City weighing 7 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20.5 inches long. She is named after her maternal grandmother. Annabel and her family currently reside in Greenwich, CT where she is the Co-Founder and CEO of Suitably, a direct to consumer women’s professional wear brand that offers accessible fashion staples and also serves as a growing network and resource to women who work. KATHRYN WORSHAM HUMPHRIES and husband, Jim, welcomed daughter, Anne “Annie” James, on August 14, 2021. She weighed 8 pounds and was 21 inches long. The Humphries family currently reside in Houston where Kathryn is a PR consultant and co-creator of All You Need Method. After 10+ years in the interior design industry, LAURA RICKAWAY opened her own firm Laura Rickaway Interiors where she works closely with homeowners, builders and architects throughout the building process to create curated interiors that are both purposeful and sophisticated. Laura began her design career with a prominent interior designer in Auburn, Alabama, working with custom home builders and furnishing luxury homes both in Auburn and on the nearby Lake Martin. After graduation, she moved home to Texas to work for highly-acclaimed interior design firms in both Houston and Fort Worth, designing high-end residential interiors. She has worked for clients across the country and has been featured in many lifestyle publications. Laura is currently based in Houston, where outside of running her own business, she enjoys volunteering with the Junior League of Houston, exploring the city’s vibrant cuisines and spending time with family and her beloved dogs, Buckley and Max!
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2008 Emma and SETH ELSENBROOK welcomed their son, Charles Evan, on May 26, 2021. Charlie was born weighing 5 pounds and 13 ounces, and was 20.8 inches long. Seth, Emma and Charlie currently reside in Houston where Seth is the Manager of Corporate Development at Salt Creek Midstream. CAROLINE SUFFIELD PATTERSON joined the SBS Arts Department as the Middle School Theatre Arts Teacher and Musical Director. Her first show in this role was Moana, Jr. which took place in November 2021 and was a huge success! SARAH TOUPS YOUNG and husband, Chris, welcomed their daughter, Lily Madeline, on July 19, 2021! Lily was born weighing 6 pounds, 15 ounces and was 19.75 inches long. The Young family is currently residing in Houston where Sarah is a Physician Assistant at Nuveau Plastic Surgery.
2009 SARAH ADAMS BOWDEN co-founded The Worthy Co., a social enterprise of The Net which is a non-profit based in Fort Worth, TX that has served over 1,000 survivors of trafficking and sexual exploitation since 2012. The Worthy Co. is an extension of The Net that exists to employ and empower survivors. The company was founded in 2018 and has grown substantially over the years! In the fall of 2020, Sarah and her partners opened a retail store as a way to invite the community into the mission. The Worthy Co. sells a wide selection of cause-driven goods such as apparel, home goods, jewelry and more. In 2021 alone, The Worthy Co. provided over 4,000 hours of employment for survivors of trafficking as well as over 1,500 hours of hands-on job training. They were also voted Best Women’s Boutique by Fort Worth Magazine in 2021! To support the mission of The Worthy Co., visit Worthy-Co.com.
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Alumni Notes 2009 DAVISON CRAKE and wife, Logan, welcomed son, Clay Davison, on September 14, 2021. Clay joins proud big sister, Charlie Grace. Davison and his family currently reside in Austin where they own The Crakes Photography + Videography, specializing in classic, romantic and colorful weddings in Austin, Dallas and destination. CHRIS DUNCAN ’09 and KIRSTYN DOMINY DUNCAN ’10 welcomed daughter, Kathryn Gail, on May 27, 2021. The Duncan family currently resides in Houston where Kirstyn is a Teacher Assistant at Second Baptist School and Chris is a Senior Commercial Representative at Enterprise Products. JACY BURRELL HAWES and husband, Jeff, welcomed their second daughter, Kate Josephine, on October 13, 2021. Kate was born weighing 7 pounds, 8 ounces and was 19.5 inches long. She joins proud big sister, Carrie. Jacy and her family currently reside in Dallas. KENDALL BURGESS HENRY and husband, Kyle, welcomed their daughter, Kennedy Ann, on June 9, 2021. Kennedy was born weighing 8 pounds, 4 ounces and was 20.5 inches long. The Henry family currently resides in Houston. CAROLINE THOMPSON KNAPP and husband, Wesley, welcomed daughter, Annie Lucille, on October 29, 2021. Annie weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces and was 19.5 inches long. She joins proud big sister, Gracie!
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2009 JENNIFER GURNEY MORGAN founded and opened Rosemary Cheese Co., a catering style company located in Houston, Texas serving hand-crafted, thoughtfully curated charcuterie and cheese boards. Rosemary Cheese Co. specializes in events of all sizes and are proud to use a variety of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, organic fruits and perfectly paired accompaniments. Jennifer created a company that is passionate about bringing people together and cultivating a caring community. Their hope is to elevate any occasion and set the stage for memories to last a lifetime.
2010 KELSEY NOBLE ADAMS is currently the Guest Relations/ Reservations Manager for Benchmark Management. Benchmark has over 400 properties and specializes in luxury vacation rentals along Florida’s beautiful Highway 30A. Kelsey manages a team of 8 agents who specialize in helping guests find the perfect spot for their next vacation. Kelsey and her husband, Tyler, currently reside in Freeport, Florida having moved to the area 5 years ago. They love for people to come visit and see their little slice of paradise! EMILY BOYD HAMMETT and husband, Adam, welcomed daughter, Annie Gray, on June 5, 2021. Annie was born weighing 8 pounds, 4 ounces and was 21.5 inches long. The Hammett family are currently residing in Austin, Texas. SHELBY HERRING OAKLEY and husband, Spencer, welcomed daughter, Adele “Del” Baylor Oakley, into the world on October 12, 2021! Del weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce and was 20 inches long. BECCA DIXON MCCORMACK and husband, Clark, welcomed daughter, Molly June, on November 9, 2021. Molly weighed 8 pounds and joined proud big brother, Paul. Molly is also the first girl between Becca and her siblings, breaking the “9 Dixon boy streak”!
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Alumni Notes 2010 ALEX TRIPP WHALEY and WILLIAM WHALEY ’10 welcomed their first daughter, Emma Belle, on July 16, 2021. She was a tiny bundle of joy weighing 5 pounds and 11 ounces.
2011 ABBY BURGHER CANNON and husband, Robert, welcomed their first son, David Coolidge Cannon on July 15, 2021. David weighed 6 pounds, 7 ounces and was 19 inches long. The Cannon family is currently residing in Houston where Abby is a nurse at Houston Methodist, and Robert is a partner at BCS Capital Group. MADDIE PEVETO HILLIN and husband, Luke, welcomed their daughter, Charlotte Leigh, into the world on November 2, 2021! The Hillin family currently resides in College Station, Texas where Maddie is the Chief of Staff at George & Barbara Bush Foundation and Luke is Chief of Staff for the Texas A&M Men’s Basketball program. MCKINZIE JONES HOWARD and husband, Richmond, and big sister/puppy, Ruby, welcomed daughter, Hadley Grace, on March 9, 2021. The Howard family currently resides in Houston where Richmond is the Executive Director at Christ Community Church (C3).
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2011 NICHOLAS JONES married Rebecca Grace on March 28, 2020, and after a few postponements due to the COVID pandemic, the Joneses finally celebrated their wedding with family and friends on November 27, 2021! The reception took place at River Oaks Country Club and the wedding party consisted of SBS Alumni JACOB DOTY ’11, ALEX CHAE ’11, ALEX COOPER ’11, JOHN DURIE ’11, RYAN POOL ’11, SAM WHITESIDE ’02, TRAVIS KRHOVJAK ’11, WILL OLIVER ’11, KIM WHITESIDE ’07 and former student Andy Vick. Kristi and WILLIAM MCMICHAEL welcomed their first son, Jack William McMichael, into the world on February 7, 2022. Jack weighed 6 pounds, 6 ounces and was 19.25 inches long. The McMichael family currently resides in Houston where William is an Associate Attorney for Chamberlain Hrdlicka. William is also a current member of the Second Baptist Alumni Board. In January 2021, KAITLYN KELLAM MEYERS founded and started The Dessert Table, a custom cookie company based out of Dallas, Texas. The Dessert Table has grown substantially since its inception as Kaitlyn is now creating cookies for every kind of occasion such as birthdays, showers, weddings, parties and more. The Dessert Table also recently partnered with local Dallas coffee shop, Herb’s House Coffee + Co, where they will be selling her cookies. Natalie and JAMES RICKAWAY welcomed a daughter, Ruth “Ruthie” Evelyn, on October 4, 2021. Ruthie was born weighing 8 pounds, 4 ounces and was 21 inches long. The Rickaway family currently resides in Houston where James works for McCarthy Building Companies and Natalie works in the Second Baptist School Office of Advancement.
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Alumni Notes 2012 ELYSE ELSENBROOK married SBS former student, Drew Tolson, on October 9, 2021 in Aspen, Colorado. The ceremony and reception took place at the St. Regis Aspen Resort where the bride’s brothers and SBS alumni, EVAN ELSENBROOK ’05 and SETH ELSENBROOK ’08 served as groomsmen. Elyse and Drew currently reside in Houston where she is corporate counsel at Toptal and Drew is an energy banker for RBC. MALLORY MORETON married Samuel Houghton on December 4, 2021! The ceremony took place at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church followed by a reception at Houston Country Club. SBS alumna, COLETTE COPE ’13, served as a bridesmaid. Mallory and Samuel currently reside in Houston where she works as a Credit Analyst at Allegiance Bank. EMMA RAYMOND and Roger Cappucci tied the knot on August 7, 2021. The ceremony took place at the Fordham University Church, followed by a reception in Tarrytown, New York. The bride’s sisters HANNAH RAYMOND ’14 and Grace Raymond served as her Maids of Honor.
2013 KENDALL TILLMAN CARAMEROS co-founded the fast-growing company, Nutiliti. Nutiliti is a mobile app that transforms the way you manage utilities. Kendall and her husband, George, also welcomed their son, George V, on Feb 10, 2021! George V weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce and was 20.5 inches long.
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2013 ALLISON GUNN married Kurt Kaiser on November 6, 2021, at Second Baptist Church. The wedding was officiated by campus pastor, John Card, and the bridal party included several SBS alumnae: KRISTEN GUNN ’11 (Maid of Honor), LAURA DURIE ’13, MARGARET HARTMAN ’13, ALLI MOTLEY ’13, KATIE BRAGG RATCLIFFE ’13 and LAUREN WHITAKER SANDERLIN ’13. SBS alumnus, CHRIS MAURER ’13, served as a scripture reader in the ceremony. AMY ROSENTHAL and Chad Wherley tied the knot on October 9, 2021. They were married in the Second Baptist Church Sanctuary, followed by a reception at Lakeside Country Club. The bride’s sister, ELLIE ROSENTHAL WOOD ’10, served as Maid of Honor and BAILEY WILKERSON ’13 served as a bridesmaid. Congratulations to BEN TOUR who started Harvard Business School in the fall of 2021 to receive his MBA! Ben was valedictorian of the class of 2013 and then went on to major in Mathematical Economic Analysis at Rice University. After undergrad, he began his career in investment banking and private equity. Ben also founded Highwind Impact Fund, is actively involved with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and sits on the Board of many Rice University climate-focused and biotech startups. SAVANNAH WILKINSON, DVM recently graduated from the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine! She is currently working in a small animal associate veterinarian practice at Washington Heights Veterinary Clinic in Houston, TX. Savannah’s interests include ophthalmology, surgery, ultrasonography, and cardiology.
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Alumni Notes 2014 MARSHALL DINGES ’14 and RACHEL STADING ’15 were married on July 10, 2021 in Houston, Texas. The ceremony took place at the Rice Hotel – Crystal Ballroom and the wedding party included several SBS Alumni: CAROLINE DINGES ’08, ASHLEY POWELL ’16, ETHAN HACKETT ’14, PARKER JOHNSON ’15, BRANDON JESSURUN ’15, CONNOR BRYANT ’14 (Best Man), CRAIG HANNON ’14, JASON STADING ’10, JORDAN STADING ’13, JOHN SCHWARTZ ’14, MICAH ADICKES ’14, CHASE WERTHEIMER ’15 and WILL BURNS ’15. Marshall and Rachel are currently residing in Houston where he is a Digital Operations Engineer at NexTier Oilfield Solutions and she is attending medical school at the Texas A&M College of Medicine.
2015 DREW APPLEGATE and Sydney Butler tied the knot on August 28, 2021, in Tallapoosa, Georgia. WILL BRAZELTON ’15 and BEN APPLEGATE ’17 served as groomsmen, and SUMMER APPLEGATE ’19 served as a bridesmaid. Drew and Sydney are living in Brooklyn, NY where Drew works for BioLite as an Industrial Designer. SAMUEL DUNEGAN married Morgan Miller on June 5, 2021, in the Texas Hill Country at Lost Mission. The groom’s brother and SBS alumnus, JOSHUA DUNEGAN ’12 served as a groomsman as well as COLLIN ROSS ’14. Samuel and Morgan currently reside in Houston where he is a Division Finance Analyst at DaVita Kidney Care and she is a Flight Controller at NASA. VICTORIA HARTMAN married Mason Massey on January 22, 2022, in Houston, Texas. The ceremony and reception took place at The Astorian, and the bride’s sisters, MARGARET HARTMAN ’13 and CHARLOTTE HARTMAN ’18 served as her Maids of Honor.
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2015 MORGAN LEPORI married Taylor Williams on October 9, 2021, in Galveston, Texas at The Bryan Museum. After graduating from SBS, Morgan received her Bachelor of Science in Health from Texas A&M University, and then went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Medical Branch. She and Taylor currently reside in Galveston and are both working at UTMB. Morgan is a Surgical ICU nurse and Taylor is completing his fifth year of General Surgery Residency with aspirations of specializing in Surgical Oncology. ANNABELLE MAAKAROUN married Josh Watts on October 2, 2021. The wedding and ceremony took place at the Alex Camp House in the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden. SUZANNE PFEFFER ’15, served as a bridesmaid and LANEY ELDERS ’15 served as the ring bearer. Annabelle and Josh currently reside in Dallas where they both work as Project Managers for T-Mobile. PARKER PLATO joined the SBS Arts Department in the fall of 2021, where she works as the Arts Assistant to Cindy Blades. She is also recently engaged to fiance, Mat Volz! Mat proposed at The Houstonian on January 13, 2022. Congratulations Parker and welcome to the SBS team! ELIZABETH TARANTINO and Tyler Stewart met as members of the organization “The Big Event” at Texas A&M University, a studentled service project where 20,000 A&M students join together to serve the residents of Bryan and College Station on one day. After dating long distance between Dallas and Houston post college, they were married on June 12, 2021. Elizabeth and Tyler now call The Woodlands, Texas their home and continue on the tradition of serving their community together.
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Alumni Notes 2015 JACK WIESEN and Becca Lane tied the knot on October 16, 2021, in Larkspur, Colorado. Jack’s sisters and SBS alumnae, CAROLINE WIESEN ’17 and ELIZABETH WIESEN ’19, served as bridesmaids. MITCHELL LATINKIC ’14, BRANDON LITTLE ’15 and CHASE WERTHEIMER ’15 served as groomsmen. ROBYN WHITAKER married Braden Snyder on August 14, 2021, at Grace Bible Church in the Houston Heights! The reception took place at Hughes Manor, and three SBS Alumnae served as bridesmaids: LAUREN WHITAKER SANDERLIN ’13, ADDIE KIM ’15 and AVERY WHITAKER ’19. ALLI MOTLEY ’13 served as Robyn and Braden’s wedding coordinator.
2016 Congratulations to LAURA LAUGHEAD who recently became the Morning Anchor at KAMC News in Lubbock, Texas! After graduating from the University of Texas in May 2020, Laura joined the KAMC team as a reporter/anchor. Prior to starting her career, she was the Valedictorian of her class at UT Austin Journalism School. Laura has worked as an executive producer, anchor, writer and red carpet interviewer for Texas Student TV’s entertainment news broadcast and as the creator/producer of an original sitcom. She also wrote for The Daily Texan and Spark magazine. Laura refined her journalism skills with internships at ABC13 in Houston, CBS Austin, Austin PBS and Good Morning America in New York City. Some of Laura’s favorite career moments include covering SXSW, interviewing Matthew McConaughey, Natalie Portman and Helen Mirren and working as an Instagram reporter for Good Morning America. She also had the privilege of winning two awards at the Lone Star Emmys in 2019 and being selected as one of the top eight outstanding 2020 UT graduates. Congratulations to JARED PETTITTE who signed with the MLB baseball team, the Miami Marlins! During his time at SBS, Jared helped lead the Eagles to a State Championship title in 2016 where he had a 12-1 record. Jared pitched for Dallas Baptist University this past year.
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2017 MATTHEW FAHNESTOCK graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2021 and is now a newly commissioned Naval Officer! Matt is currently a student Naval Aviator in Pensacola, Florida and is finishing up NIFE (Naval Introductory Flight Evaluation). After completing his training in Pensacola, he will head to Corpus Christi, Texas for “Primary” Flight School. Matt is pictured on the left. Dental student by day, country artist by night! COOPER MOHRMANN is currently a student at the University of Texas School of Dentistry in Houston, Texas. In addition to working towards a dental degree, he has also found much success in the Texas Country music scene. Cooper plays shows throughout the state and his most recent single was added by Spotify to their “Texas Country Now” playlist. Congratulations on this huge milestone, Cooper! PAUL RUSH recently graduated from Texas A&M University – Mays Business School with a business degree and double minor in financial planning and economics. During his time at A&M, he was a member of the Aggie Men’s Club and was involved with Pine Cove Camps. Paul is currently residing in Houston and is a Credit Analyst at Amegy Bank in Houston. GLENN TURNER recently graduated from Texas A&M University – College of Architecture with a degree in University Studies, double minoring in Construction Science. He is currently working as a Project Engineer with Satterfeild & Pontikes Construction in the DFW area.
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Alumni Notes 2018 VICTOR CURNE was named to the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award watch list at the start of the 2021 college football season. This award recognizes the top offensive player in Division I football who also exhibits the enduring characteristics that define Earl Campbell: integrity, performance, teamwork, sportsmanship, drive, community and tenacity. This is not the first time Victor has been nationally recognized as a player, he also earned an All-Pac-12 honorable mention in 2020. Victor currently plays right tackle for the University of Washington.
2019 MADISON PENNINGTON was selected to be a part of the 20212022 12th Man Foundation Collegiate Council. The Collegiate Council is a select group of student leaders on-campus who go above and beyond to enhance the 12th Man Foundation’s footprint through ambassadorship and student engagement. Madison is studying business honors and finance at Texas A&M and just finished her yearlong tenure serving as the Chief Financial Officer of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. Congratulations to TRAVIS VICK who played in the 2021 US Amateur Championship semifinals! Travis is ranked 30 at the time of publication with the World Amateur Golf Ranking and plays for the University of Texas golf team. He will be a senior this fall and is studying corporate communication.
2020 Congratulations to GRANT MUELLER, who received his private pilots license in August 2021! Grant is currently attending the University of Oklahoma where he is enrolled in the Aviation Department, pursuing a Professional Pilot degree. He is also in Detachment 675 in Air Force ROTC. Grant recently accepted the Air Warrior Courage Foundation Certificate to accompany an educational grant from his Colonel. He continues to be on the Dean’s list each semester. Boomer Sooner!
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2020 KENDALL PENNINGTON started an online blog called “We the Raediant” where she shares the Gospel and created a space where Christian women and men can talk about the struggles they face in this world, tackle hard topics and encourage one another to be more like Christ. You can follow along on Instagram @wetheraediant. Kendall will be a junior at Texas A&M this fall and is studying communications. ANNA BETH SWAIN is currently ranked in the top 5% of her class at Dartmouth College! During her time at SBS, Anna Beth was the class Valedictorian, Head Prefect, a Golden Girl and was very involved in the SBS Arts Department. Anna Beth is planning on majoring in biology and minoring in Spanish. CAROLINE TORN was selected to be a part of the 2021-2022 12th Man Foundation Collegiate Council. The mission of the 12th Man Foundation is to enhance Texas A&M athletic success in support of championship athletics. As a member of the Collegiate Council, Caroline’s role entails creating awareness within the student body about all the 12th Man Foundation does. The council specifically works to create more student members to help the annual fund and serve as an advocate from a student’s perspective. Caroline is studying business honors at Texas A&M and is a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority. MARY TURNER started the online clothing brand, Joyful Apparel Co., while a freshman at Baylor University. She is now about to enter her junior year and has seen the company grow exponentially since then. Joyful Apparel Co. was created with the intent to help spread the joy of the Lord to anyone and everyone. The online shop currently sells hats, t-shirts and sweatshirts for both men and women.
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Alumni Notes 2021
ALLISON DRINNON was selected to be an Editorial Intern for Austin Fit Magazine during the fall of 2021. She had the opportunity to publish her work and contributed to online articles and the monthly issues from November 2021 to February 2022. Allison is currently studying journalism and writing at Texas State University. Congratulations to STONE HEATON on being selected for The Texas A&M Singing Cadets! The Singing Cadets are A&M’s premier men’s chorus whose purpose is to enhance public relations of Texas A&M University through musical presentations. They perform throughout the year at campus events, do a 10-day tour in January as well as other national and international tours. Stone will be a sophomore at A&M this fall and is majoring in Performance Studies. In the fall of 2021, MAKAYLA WILLIAMS was one of 25 Baylor students selected to be in the inaugural cohort of the Trailblazer Scholars Program! Designed to recognize the importance of fostering diversity and mutual respect at Baylor, the Trailblazer program emerged as part of Baylor’s commitment to listen, learn and take actionable steps regarding racial healing and justice in America. Students in the program participate in leadership and service opportunities through Baylor’s Department of Multicultural Affairs and through other groups and programs on the University’s campus. Each member of the program must maintain the required minimum GPA, make satisfactory academic progress towards a degree and continue to demonstrate commitment to advancing racial equality and diversity. Makayla will start her sophomore year this fall and is majoring in Professional Writing and Rhetoric and minoring in Corporate Communications.
2022 During the March Senior Alumni Workshop, our newest alumni were asked to vote for classmates—two girls and two boys—to represent their class as Class Agents. These agents serve as the liaisons between SBS and the Class of 2022 by keeping their class connected to current SBS events, updates and class reunions in the months and years to come. Congratulations to our newest Class Agents: Daniel Klein, Tanner Chapman, Cameron Kelley and Naomi Kanuma.
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FUTURE EAGLES CLUB PROFILES B E R T R A M F A M I LY KRISTIN PAPP BERTRAM ’00 AND M AT T H E W B E RT R A M W I T H B E A U ’ 3 6 AND BROOKS B A K E R F A M I LY LAUREN ASHKAR BAKER ’02 & A U S T I N B A K E R W I T H B R O O K LY N ’ 3 2 , TEDDY ’34, BOONE ’36 AND HOUSTON G U T H R I E F A M I LY CHELSEA DEUTSCH GUTHRIE ’06 & RYAN GUTHRIE WITH GENEVIEVE ’36 AND GEOFFREY
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B E R T R A M FA M I LY Kristin Papp Bertram ’00 and Matthew Bertram with Beau ’36 and Brooks Matthew Bertram and I met in 2016 and were married in 2017. We had two babies, one in 2018 and one in 2019, survived 2020, and started my second journey at Second Baptist School (on the parent side this time) with my firstborn son, Beau, in PK3 in 2021. Beau is completely in love with his teacher, Ms. Rocha, and his classmates. Beau comes home from school singing Christian songs, talking about Jesus and my heart could explode with the joy that brings our family! My younger son, Brooks, will attend Second as soon as he is old enough for PK3 in 2023. Because I was constantly surrounded by the love and support of family, I had a truly wonderful experience growing up at Second Baptist. I was taught excellence in academics, athletics and in the community groups we maintained. I learned to serve the city and love my neighbor as Jesus did. When I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Savior, I developed a personal relationship with Him because of the dedication, love and support of the staff at Second Baptist School and Second Baptist Church. I consider this experience the most profound and valuable of any I encountered! My husband and I desire for our children to have this same experience.
K R I ST I N PA P P B E RT RA M ’ 0 0 I started at Second Baptist in the nursery school and church! Our family was heavily involved in the ministries at the church, and I thrived feeling completely at home at school on the same property. I graduated as a Lifer and headed off to Trinity University to see what I could learn and how I could grow. After undergrad, I continued on to complete graduate school at Texas A&M Corpus Christi and then made my way back to assist my family running The Window Center, our 46-year-old family distribution business!
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We believe relationships with like-minded believers, training from brilliant leaders and the nurturing experienced from genuine caretakers are second to none at Second Baptist. It’s no coincidence so many alumni desire for their children to return to SBS. In this day and age, we must train up our children in the Word and gird them with the Truth so it can be used and accessed in their lives as they grow. We are blessed to be a part of the Second Baptist family and believe the positive environment the administration has created is true evidence of the love of Christ here on earth.
B A K E R FA M I LY Lauren Ashkar Baker ’02 & Austin Baker with B r o o k l y n ’ 3 2 , Te d d y ’ 3 4 , B o o n e ’ 3 6 a n d H o u s t o n I graduated with the Class of 2002 and went on to study at The University of Texas. My firstborn came along, and while I was in the throes of motherhood, my husband and I decided to place our oldest in a preschool just down the street from our house. In the back of our minds, we always knew our kids would end up at Second Baptist School, but we didn’t know how the Lord would work that out. Fast forward to 2020. Our eyes were opened to A LOT. We saw very clearly the people and places that were aligned with the Lord and the people and places that were not. We saw people who were gripped by fear and people who were filled up with faith. We saw leaders who cowered and leaders who led courageously.
LAUREN ASHKAR BAKER ’02 Second Baptist has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My twin sister and I started in pre-kindergarten, and just a few years later, our mom became a teacher at SBS. Second Baptist School quickly became our home away from home. It was where I learned about God’s great love for me and grew confident in my faith. It’s where I felt supported, encouraged, cared for, safe and secure.
I’ll never forget the week God kept placing on my mind, “apply to Second Baptist School.” I obeyed Him and applied and here we are – a current SBS family! Meeting Head of School Dr. Don Davis was a major confirmation for us. He is a man aligned with the Lord, filled with faith and not afraid to lead courageously in these uncertain times. With an entire lifetime of experiences at Second Baptist School, I can say that right now is the happiest and most exciting time to be a part of this community. As we walk our children onto campus every day (Grade 2, KN, PK3 and an almost 2-yearold still at home with me!, I am filled with gratitude for the Lord’s goodness and faithfulness in our lives.
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G U T H R I E FA M I LY Chelsea Deutsch Guthrie ’06 & Ryan Guthrie with Genevieve ’36 and Geoffrey teaching Sunday school or attending summer activities as a counselor. Some of them are still doing ministry at church today! After spending some years in the church community, my parents were impressed by the SBS students they met on campus. They decided to apply to send my brother and me to school at SBS. I will never forget starting at Second Baptist School after Christmas as a shy fourth grader, and before I knew it, I had finished my senior year and was walking across the stage to receive my diploma in 2006. After graduation, I attended the University of Texas at Austin and fulfilled my dream of becoming a teacher.
CHELSEA DEUTSCH GUTHRIE ’06 Second Baptist School and the people who make up its community have had a tremendous impact on my life over the last 20+ years! Back in the 1980s, my mom attended Second Baptist Church even before she met my dad. They married in the Sanctuary in 1986 and my brother and I were born in the following years. Second Baptist Church has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I was baptized alongside my dad in 1997, and I spent many summers at Beach Retreat and the various kids’ camps. I can still remember so many specific adults who invested in my life by
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Some of my most favorite things about SBS are the biblical foundation it builds in students and the people who make up its community. For example, I remember studying the Gospel of John in fifth grade and learning for the first time in-depth about Jesus’ ministry on earth and just what His sacrifice on the cross looked like physically. I still remember some of my memory verses from middle school, and God brings them to mind just when I need them! I remember learning all about the covenant and what that meant, both in Scripture and today. I remember sitting in Ms. Simonton’s class during my senior year and studying C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity. She left us with so many wise words about life, all rooted in Scripture and designed to prepare us for what would come in college and beyond. The biblical foundation and mentoring I received at SBS helped me go on to UT and prioritize seeking out Christian community and friendships. That made all the difference in my college experience as I look back. It was a time of huge growth in my faith.
TWENTY QUESTIONS WITH T H E F I R S T G R A D U AT I N G CLASS OF 1982
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twenty questi 1 Finish this sentence: “I will always remember…” • • • • • •
Having fun with my friends and cutting up in class. Our first drama production of Our Town. Coach Strother ‘Alright stretch, relax, stretch, relax. Let’s go, you Knotheads!’ Our senior privilege of eating lunch outside. My first pom-pom routine! The unique position of being the first graduating class and only 21 of us.
• • • •
•
Your attitude determines the altitude you reach. Remain grateful, and humble. Take each job you have as an opportunity to learn. Don’t be afraid of change, the only way to grow is to change. Don't rush your high school years. Savor them! Find a mentor/s – spiritual, financial, relational. Appreciate everyone’s uniqueness and be kind to all. Do ALL the things – audition for the play, field day, prom, Homecoming, try out for anything and do sports and be in an election….you won’t regret it. You have one high school life, so live it! Enjoy your time, make lots of friends, be a good friend and help others.
3 What do you miss most about being in high school? • • • •
•
Allison VanEman, Craig Moritz, Mark Thiemann, Michelle Lipscomb (when she smiled and began to giggle, I could not help but smile and laugh, too – so infectious!).
5 What teacher(s) impacted your adult life?
years later, what's your number-one piece 2 Forty of advice for current SBS seniors? •
4 Who had the best smile in the Class of 1982?
Mrs. Linda Richard (English), Mr. Warren Simmons (science), Coach Wade McLain, Coach Jim Strother, Ms. Carol Ware, Mrs. Janet Sims, Miss Doris Herrin, Mrs. Kay Gregory.
6 Describe your time at SBS in three words. • • • •
7 What was your favorite class at SBS and why? • • • •
P.E. It allowed me to release some energy, I was a bit hyper! Drama class with Mrs. Blades, because we could talk! Chemistry, because it came easy to me. Journalism and working on the yearbook with Mrs. Sims.
would you do differently if you had to go 8 What through high school again? ●
The feeling of freedom and camaraderie! The time spent hanging out with friends, after school, in athletics or during theatre productions. Being young. The way the world was! So fun, easy and pure! We engaged with life, people and relationships. I also miss the trips we took as a class – that was something not many had the privilege to do. Life seemed simple and I thought I knew everything.
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Fun, friends, family Acceptance, relationships, adventure A true blessing Fun, comfortable and foundation
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Nothing, but pay closer attention to my teachers. Apply myself in the classroom and work harder athletically. Not back my car into Tucker’s car and not leave my jewelry on the gymnasium floor. Never saw it again.
ons
with the First Graduating Class of 1982
9 What was your go-to song in 1982? • • • • •
10
“Desperado” by the Eagles That Blondie song “Tainted Love” “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” by Pat Benetar “I Love Rock ’n Roll”
What was the best thing about being a member of the Class of 1982? It was ALL good. The senior class cruise was great! And, it was fun being the first.
has changed the most at SBS since you 11 What were in school? The size of the school and classes!
12 What do you wish never changes about SBS? • • •
The Christian commitment of the teachers. Teachers caring about students – who will go to your house to have a serious conversation. The core values and beliefs.
extracurricular activities did you 13 What participate in at SBS? • • • •
Drama, baseball, basketball All sports and drama (no musicals back then) Cheerleading, tennis, journalism (for a hot minute), drama Tennis, volleyball and yearbook
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Janet Sims – I know what a Thesaurus is now. Coach Griffin. He inspired me and I wanted to get to know him more.
would you be SO embarrassed to be seen 15 What wearing (but secretly love) from 1980s fashion? • •
Jordache jeans The SBS zip-up gym suits
16 How did your time at SBS impact your faith? • • • •
Strengthened it and helped me understand its centrality in my life. Was saved at Beach Retreat and baptized in the Sanctuary. Kept it solid!! SBS reinforced my faith.
three friends from the Class of 1982 17 What would you have gone on a cross-country road trip your senior year? • • •
Scott Scurlock, Jimmy Ogg, Craig Moritz Jimmy Ogg, Barry Jordan and Mark Tiemann Sarah Towler, Michelle Lipscomb, Jim Weatherford
18 Who was the best dressed in the Class of 1982? 19 Who was the class clown in the Class of 1982? Jim Weatherford, Allison VanEman
Charles Bacarisse and not by design, Jim Howell
SBS teacher would you like to see again 14 What and share a meal with? Why? 20 What was your favorite movie in high school? • •
All of them, because they were all interesting and kind people. I just did with Mrs. Frank and Coach Strother!
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75TH ANNIVERSARY 2022
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Five members of the Class of 2022 share their SBS DIFFERENCE.
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