1953: The Magazine of St. Johns Country Day School, Summer 2024
Grade 5 enjoys a class trip to Kennedy Space Center in April.
Letter from the Head of School
Dear Spartan Families,
It’s been another incredible year at St. Johns, bringing us together through baseball championships, Grandparents Day, Town Meetings, an eclipse, and Athletes of the Week. These events, along with many others (see page 30), have enriched our lives and created a rich shared tapestry of memories.
We’ve also been diligently working on a new Wellness Initiative and expanding our programmatic offerings to foster a stronger sense of community. I hope you enjoy reading about these experiences and perhaps reliving them with me on these pages.
This summer, we were overjoyed to see so many valued alumni at our Iguana on Park Alumni Social (see photos on page 44). Your presence and participation are what make these events truly special. As we plan to visit alums in a few cities over the upcoming year, we invite you to participate in this journey. Please take a minute to visit us either at sjcds.net/alumni or on the social media platform of your choice; let us know where you are located, and cast your vote for a get-together in your town. Your voice matters, and we value your input in shaping the future of our alumni community!
Along that vein, over the years we have heard from many of our alums that they do more and more of their “connecting” online and would prefer to hear from us digitally, with a little less paper in the mail. That’s why I’m thrilled to announce that this fall, we’ll launch our new online Alumni Portal and shift some of our focus and outreach to that platform, along with our website and social media channels. This magazine will still hit your mailboxes, less often as it transitions to an annual summer issue. We’ll aim to see you more online, on social media, and, hopefully, more often in real life, either on campus or at an upcoming event.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
Fondly, Valorie
Head of School Valorie Baker with St. Johns’ therapy dog, Byrdie
SCHOOL NEWS BRIEFS
Lower School
Grandparents Day
In a burst of new tradition at St. Johns, Grandparents Day sprung to life this spring, lighting up the campus on the day before Spring Break. The approaching holiday break infused an extra dose of excitement as nearly 300 grandparents and cherished ‘grand friends’ flooded onto campus for the festivities.
Aligned closely with the birthday celebration of the beloved children’s author Theodore Geisel, known to all as Dr. Seuss, the day took on an enchanting Seussical theme. The air buzzed with vibrant energy as the performance showcased whimsical numbers from Seussical, JR. Meanwhile, everywhere you looked, the campus was transformed into a fantastical Seuss-y wonderland, from the truffula trees adorning the stage and library to the colorful array of costumes donned by all.
Laughter filled the air as families and friends immersed themselves in a day of togetherness and joyous celebration. As we reflect on the day, one sentiment rings clear: we eagerly await the delights that next year’s Grandparents Day will surely bring!
Trips Broaden Students’ Horizons
Lower School students took their learning outside of the classroom this semester with exciting field trips to the Florida State Capitol, Savannah, Kennedy Space Center, Florida Museum of Natural History, and more.
Field trips like these offer students invaluable opportunities for hands-on learning and exploration outside the confines of our classrooms. Trips help stimulate curiosity, deepen understanding, and foster a sense of wonder about
Grade 5 Crosses the Quad
The Class of 2031 metaphorically crossed the Fisher Quad to Middle School in May, marking their completion of Lower School and their ascendence to Middle School. Personal commendations were awarded to each student (see the full list at sjcds.net/news) and each student gave a speech calling out highlights from their time in Lower School. Then before they crossed the stage and shook hands with Head of Middle School Ben Magidson and Middle School Dean Pat Rodifer, symbolically joining the Middle School. Welcome to Middle School, Class of 2031!
Middle School
NJHS Inducts 22
Congratulations to the 22 students in Grades 7 and 8 who were inducted into the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) in April! NJHS holds ideals centered around Scholarship, Service, Leadership, Character, and Citizenship. The following students were welcomed at a ceremony in the Performing Arts Center this spring:
In Grade 8:
Alexandra Kuczkowski
Vedant Mathur
Angelina Warren
In Grade 7:
Collin Ashford
Brooklyn Butler
Nikalina Frustaci
Colton Hill
Manatees Take Over
Each year, St. Johns students collaborate with outside experts on a particular animal. These collaborations take place across divisions, with students in different grades learning and working on age-appropriate lessons. There are also internal collaborations, with students working with different classes on various aspects of learning.
Students have a “reveal” at the beginning of the year, and then, depending on their grade level and class, they work on that particular animal throughout the year. This year, the selected animal was the manatee. Grade 6 students spent time learning about the manatee, its biology, ecology, and conservation. Throughout the year, they worked with Visual Art to create both ceramic and larger papier-mâché manatees, and they collaborated with their English teachers to write reports about them. Then, this spring, they visited the Jacksonville Zoo for a behind-the-scenes tour with manatee experts. Finally, they developed and delivered presentations to share what they learned with family and friends.
Elizabeth Jackson
Isaiah Larsen
Ava Lerche
Xavier Lopez Diaz
Aiden Moore
Matilda Morris
Olivia Morris
Kate Pappas
Sophia Prettyman
Max Rivera
Rachel Robinson
Emery Schneider
Kate Staten
Anderson Vogt
Colton Young
Students Enact Mockingbird Trial Scene
For more than 20 years, Grade 8 students at St. Johns have been delivering a reader’s theater production of the trial scene from Harper Lee’s classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird. For decades, St. Johns students have studied this timeless work of American literature, with many embracing the opportunity to present a dramatized adaptation of this pivotal scene.
“Through our careful reading, thoughtful reflection, writing activities, and class discussions, we have developed an appreciation for the depth and gravity of this thought-provoking novel,” said Mrs. Thea Burke, Grade 8 English teacher. “Many of the issues addressed in this novel resonate with readers and audiences today just as they did when the novel was first published in 1960. However, what still makes it such an influential work of literature are the uniquely memorable characters who bring this book to life.”
Grade 8 Closing Ceremony
In May, St. Johns was honored to celebrate the close of a very big year for the class of 2028. The closing ceremony featured department awards, athletic awards, the Middle School Spartan Award, and two surprise presentations— videos taking students back through their year together and showing the audience “then and now” photos of each Grade 8 student.
Members of the Class of 2028 include:
Roe Alexander
Levi Avila
Cooper Blackwood
Carys Cain
Carson Connolly
Camden Cooper
Beckham Cummings
Isabel Dugre
Madeleine Dugre
Aiden Flaschen
Marcus Giles
Elliot Graham
John Harward
Asher Hendrix
Lee Hite
Reece Hoffmann
Jacob Horney
Cayden Ingram
Ian Johnson
Isa Johnson
Alexandra Kuczkowski
Riley Lincoln
Victoria Martin
Vedant Mathur
Sophia McClellan
Caris Morgan
Ethan Murrhee
Zachary Navarro
Kendall Proffitt
Izabela Quickstad
Brennan Rowzee
Emma Smith
Audrey Steckler
Grady Tees
Alexandria Valencia
Angelina Warren
Mountain Trip
In an exciting evolution next year, Grade 8 will transition to taking a trip to Washington, DC. But in the meantime, St. Johns didn’t want any Spartans to miss out on the magic of the North Carolina Mountain Trip, so Grade 7 took theirs this spring. While it won’t be the “Great 8” Mountain Trip anymore, it’ll still be an amazing adventure filled with hikes, waterfalls, swimming, rafting, teambuilding, laughter, and much, much more!
Upper School
Miss St. Johns Competition Raises $2300 for Rise Against Hunger
In February, St. Johns Interact Club hosted the Miss St. Johns competition and raised over $2300 for Rise Against Hunger! It was a great show and lots of fun with Junior Geli Yepez coming out on top as Miss St. Johns 2024! The second place winner was Gigi Sessions ’24 and Ashantii Wil liams ’26, Autumn Henry ’25, and Cordelia Painter ’24 rounded out the top five.
Additional awards went to: Miss Congeniality- Autumn Henry People’s Choice - Gigi Sessions
“I am very proud of all of the contestants,” said Interact Club sponsor Heather Velasco. “They worked hard to put on a great show. The proceeds from this event give us about half of the $5,000 we need to host a meal packaging event on campus for Rise Against Hunger. Interact Club’s goal is to raise the rest of the money and host the event next spring. This will be the fifth meal packaging event for this organization that Interact Club has sponsored on campus.” Hearty thanks to contest chairs Jane Garrison ’25 and Addison Wagstaff ’26 for bringing the show to life and to emcees Richard Nichols ’24 Calli Berrang ’26 for bringing life to the show!
As an aside, St. Johns wants to thank Mrs. Heather Velasco for her fif teen years of service to the School. She retired from teaching at the end of the year and is moving abroad for new adventures and experiences! Thank you, and good luck, Mrs. Velasco!
Fifth Annual Junior Ring Ceremony
In what has become one of the School’s newer traditions, in January, St. Johns held a ring ceremony for the Class of 2025. Over the past two years, the tradition of the rings has evolved into one where each member of the class receives a special St. John’s ring, presented to them by their parents. You can read more about the ceremony and the history and tradition of class rings at sjcds.net/news.
Junior Senior Prom
School News Briefs
Experiential Education in Action
St. Johns continues to expand its offerings in innovatie, next-level science and experiential learning opportunities. This year, the Forensics class took over an additional lab space as they investigated a crime scene, and Upper School biology classes went on a field trip to Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Research Reserve). AP Environmental Science students learned how environmental quality affects everyone at a water treatment plant.
APES went on a field trip to the JEA Wastewater Treatment/Reclamation Plant. As part of their Aquatic and Terrestrial Pollution Unit, students studied best practices in sewage treatment. They increased their knowledge of primary, secondary, and tertiary wastewater treatment processes and hopefully enhanced their ability to effectively describe this process.
Athletics
What a great year we had in Spartan Athletics! Not only did we bring home our first-ever baseball State Championship title, but softball made it to the playoffs and was the District Runner Up, Calli Berrang, from Spartan Tennis, won Districts and went on to State, and several of our coaches were recognized for the outstanding talents they bring to the courts and fields of St. Johns. Read on for more highlights!
Spartan Baseball Brings First Championship
Congratulations to Spartan Baseball which, just days before Graduation, brought home St. Johns’ first-ever school baseball championship in a nail-biter against Miami Christian in Ft. Myers. In the bottom of the 8th with Gabe Gilliand ‘25 at the plate, a wild pitch was thrown and the ball got past the Miami Christian catcher and hit the wall. This gave Connor O’Steen ’24 (above left, with Coach Tom Lucas) just the opportunity he needed to slide across home plate for the win. Congratulations, team!
St. Johns Athletics Awards Show
Spartan Athletics were thrilled this spring to host the first-ever St. Johns Athletics Awards Show. “The St. Johns Athletics Award Show is a new tradition at St. Johns where we showcase the best of the best in St. Johns Athletics,” said Director of Athletics John Sgromolo. “Our student athletes do so much more than just play sports throughout the school year. This awards show gives us the opportunity to showcase all of our students who have exemplified not only excellence in sport but also in character, sportsmanship, academic excellence and much more.”
Highlights of the evening included a number of awards, listed below, and particularly the Kamy Loustau Service Award, named for former St. Johns women’s soccer player Kamy Loustau ’19. Kamy couldn’t join us for the Awards Show, but in a video message she called for all Spartan athletes to “dedicate time to not only pursue greatness on the field, but also pursue greatness as a human being. Oftentimes our most power impacts as athletes don’t happen on a scoresheet or as academics don’t happen on a grade sheet, but they happen and they show themselves in how we treat those around us.” And with that, she introduced
the award, which this year went to Facilities Supervisor Richard Jeffers. Richard has been with St. Johns since 2015, and puts his heart, soul, and tremendous amounts of hard work into keeping our campus, grounds, and facilities looking and running at their absolute best. We truly appreciate all the work he does to support St. Johns and Spartan Athletics. Congratulations, Richard!
Male Athlete of the Year
Ben Payton ’24 & Jack Ensell ’24
Female Athlete of the Year
Savannah Berrang ’24
Male Sportsmanship Athlete of the Year
Josh Lewis ’25
Female Sportsmanship
Athlete of the Year
Addison Frisbee ’24 & Gabi Oceguera ’25
Spartan to Service Award
Sofia Conde ’24
Male Scholar Athlete of the Year
Richard Nichols ’24
Female Scholar Athlete of the Year
Roxy Mathews ’24
Male Multi Sport Athlete of the Year
Ben Payton ’24
Female Multi Sport Athlete of the Year
Kaitlyn Sunderhaus ’25
St. Johns Play of the Year
Sydney Schmidt ’26, Kyle Boylston, Camden Cooper ’28, Ian Mamea ’27
Kamy Loustau Service Award
Richard Jeffers
St. Johns HERO Award
Cayden Ingram ’28
Comeback Player of the Year
Hadley Dantzler
St. Johns Assistant Coach of the Year
Sarah Voglewede ’11
St. Johns Middle School Coach of the Year
Jim Burke
FCA Character Award
Josh Lewis ’25
Michael L. Pickett Coach of the Year
Tom Lucas
Varsity Assistant Coach of the Year
Sarah Voglewede ’11
Camden Cooper ’28 Nets 1,000
In a January 16, 2024, game against First Coast Christian School, Varsity Basketball point guard Cam Cooper ’28 became the 17th player in Spartan history to reach the 1,000-point mark. Cooper says he knew it was going to happen this year; it was just a matter of when. “I knew I just had to get one point, so I was really trying to get it to get it over with, so I didn’t have to worry about it,” he said.
Kent Awarded Commemorative Ball
In March, Mary Kate Kent ’24 was awarded a commemorative basketball in honor of her 2,000 career points. Mary Kate Kent has been a member of the girls varsity basketball program starting in Grade 6, won two district championships and a trip to the final four in the state playoffs. She has dedicated countless hours practicing, fine tuning, and studying her game. But the one thing that stands out above all else is her unself ishness on and off the court. Mary Kate recognizes the value of teamwork and is the first person to celebrate the successes of everyone else.
“This season, Mary Kate averaged an impressive 23 points and 6 assists per game,” said Di rector of Athletics John Sgromolo. “A phenomenal shoot er, Mary kate has made over 350 threes during her career on her way to 2,000 career points.”
Spring Sports Signing Day
In April, St. Johns was honored to celebrate four seniors who will take their passion, skills, and dedication with them to the next level by signing to an elite college program.
Collin Briggs (Baseball) - Middle Georgia State University
Sasha Wallace (Girls Weightlifting) - Mars Hill University
Jack Walker (Rowing) - Syracuse University
Timmy Jackson (School of Music, Trumpet) - University of Georgia
“They say it takes a village to raise a child,” said Director of Athletics John Sgromolo, before thanking the parents, coaches, and others both at St. Johns and within the students’ families who have helped each of these seniors along the way, whether by coaching them day after day, or driving them to practices, tournaments, and performances.
“Today is not about any of us individually, but it’s about the success that all of you have had due to the many people in your lives who have contributed so much: teammates, coaches, teachers, and friends,” said Sgromolo. “Please know that today is not your destination, but you’re now stepping to the starting line.”
Congratulations, Seniors!
Eclipse: Sky Show Wows the School
On April 8, there was an eclipse of the sun across much of North America. In Florida, we saw only a partial eclipse, but the solar spectacle wowed students and faculty alike.
Performing Arts
The Breakfast Club: The Musical
This spring, St. Johns Performing Arts Department was thrilled to debut The Breakfast Club: The Musical. For those who grew up with those kids from Shermer High School, it was a trip down memory lane, a familiar, musical hug from the past. And for those who were new to The Breakfast Club, it was a rockin’ show full of tunes they knew from “somewhere,” with a cast they knew from biology class. Or maybe homeroom.
The original adaptation was written by Director Paul Perez and starred Westin Cowherd ’25, AJ Hawk ’24, Sergio Lopez Diaz ’26, Cordelia Painter ’24, Alyssa Walker ’26, and Sasha Wallace ’24.
“The script originally written by John Hughes focuses on the question of ‘Who are you?’” said Perez. “Which the teens answer by facing their fears, differences, and perceptions. I loved working on an original piece and sharing the experience with this talented group.”
Spring Band Concert
May’s Spring Band Concert was truly a delight as our bands at different levels took to the stage to showcase what they had been working on over the past semester. It was a thrill to observe how far along the younger players had come since the fall concert, and to see the growing skill among those at the higher levels.
Director of Bands Cindy Glass includes notes in each program that help the audience travel through the program with the bands, illuminating choices, soloists, obstacles they’ve overcome, and students who have taken their craft to a higher level, such as Senior Timmy Jackson, who, as a part of his Instrumental Music Fellowship rehearsed and conducted the Middle School Concert Band in “Highlights from the Phantom of the Opera.”
Visual Arts
2024 Scholastic Art Awards
In February, St. Johns was proud to host the 2024 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Art Show in the Nichols Family Art Gallery. The show, the Gallery’s first since its official opening in September 2023, hosted student-art that received either a Silver Key or Honorable Mention in the Northeast Florida regional Scholastic Art Awards competition. Gold Key works were on display at the Jacksonville Main Library and were shown in a video at the gallery.
A total of 41 St. Johns students were honored for receiving 84 awards in the 2024 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Judges from across northeast Florida reviewed over 3,000 art entries ranging from 16 visual art categories. Out of these, there were over 400 regional Gold Keys awarded, and St. Johns was proud to hold 21 of them. The School’s artists were also awarded 24 Silver Keys and 39 Honorable Mentions.
“We are always blown away by the quality of our student’s art and this year is no exception,” said Visual Arts Department Chair Anna Reynolds. “We are par ticularly proud to hold 21 of the 400 regional Gold Keys awarded, a testament to the hard work and talent of our student-artists.”
This year’s award winners included:
Haleema Ali ’27
Xavier Baez ’25
Frances Bailey ’25
Caden Brown ’26
Regan Butler ’25
Carys Cain ’28
Gracie Castleman ’27
Dominique Clark ’27
Ainsley Costarakis ’25
Westin Cowherd ’25
Rowan Fix ’25
Anna Galnor ’25
Kelsey Gregson ’25
Hana Hutsell ’27
Cayden Ingram ’28
Mia Johnson ’25
Isa Johnson ’28
Alexandra Kuczkowski ’28
Roxy Mathews ’24
Vedant Mathur ’28
Brice McClellan ’26
Sophia McClellan ’28
Grace McNulty ’25
Grayson Moody ’25
Caris Morgan ’28
Matilda Morris ’29
Zach Navarro ’28
Gabriela Oceguera ’25
Kate Pappas ’29
Luke Peterson ’25
Izzy Quickstad ’28
Ishta Ramroop ’26
Reyden Rivera ’26
Brennan Rowzee ’28
Emma Smith ’28
Audrey Steckler ’28
Emily Steckler ’26
Celine Torkzad ’27
Alexandria Valencia ’28
Reagan Wagstaff ’25
Brynn White ’25
In judging submissions, jurors look for works that exemplify the Awards’ core values: originality, technical skill, and the emergence of a personal voice or vision.
Students were also honored by the Northeast Florida Scholastic Affiliate at an Awards Ceremony at the Florida Theatre.
Since 1923, the Scholastic Awards have recognized some of America’s most celebrated artists and writers while they were teenagers, including: Tschabalala Self, Stephen King, Kay WalkingStick, Charles White, Joyce Carol Oates, and Andy Warhol.
Grade 3 Art Museums
Grade 3 prepared for a spring field trip to Gainesville’s Florida Museum of Natural History and Harn Museum of Art by working with the art department to design, curate, and create their own art galleries. Their detailed creations included furnishings, flooring, and, of course, art!
All-School Gallery Show
In the spring, St. Johns continued its calendar of great gallery art shows with an all-school show, featuring works from every student-artist in Grades 1-12. Parents, friends, and family came to the opening at the Nichols Family Art Gallery on May 10, 2024, and the show remained up for the rest of the school year.
Class of 2024! Congratulations
ongratulations to the 53 members of the Class of 2024 who graduated on Saturday, May 25, 2024. After a beautiful Baccalaureate service on Friday night, on Saturday St. Johns was proud to celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2024. Family, friends, and classmates gathered at Orange Park’s Thrasher-Horne Center for the event, where the seniors processed down the aisle, looking fantastic in white dresses and dinner tuxedos, followed by School faculty. School Chaplain Owene Courtney ’73 read the invocation, and Mrs. Baker delivered opening remarks.
Graduation Awards (see page 26) were bestowed and 2024-2025 Student Council President Geli Yepez ’25 introduced the two student speakers elected by their peers to deliver the graduation addresses: Cordelia Painter and Taylor Thigpen.
Cordelia assumed the podium first, starting off by reveling in the fact that they could all finally kiss their uniforms goodbye.
denly early in her sophomore year. “That was a lot for me,” she said. “It was hard for me to grapple with the idea that all I had now of him was memories. But it taught me so much, too. Since then, I’ve always looked at time and memories in a different way. I realized how valuable they are. I mean, the present is far more valuable than I think any of us will ever realize. “It’s like that quote from The Office,” ‘I wish there was a way to know you’re in the good ol’ days before you’ve actually left them.’”
Turning serious, she said, “If there’s anything I’ve learned in my time at St. Johns, it’s the importance of staying present in the moment as a way of creating those lasting memories.” She told everyone how her father passed away very sud-
“One day this will all be a memory,” she summed, “but it’s what we do with that memory that counts. For me personally I know I’ll remember every single one of you fondly, for your specific quirks and senses of humor—the things that make you you— no matter how close we were.”
To some amount of sniffling, next to take the podium was Taylor Thigpen, who started off by thanking parents, friends, faculty and staff for being here. “Most importantly,” he said, “I want to thank the Class of 2024.”
“To the Class of 2024,” he said, “you began your high school career with a mask on your face and in a world of unknowns.... Now there is a ton of cliché advice that I could give you—’go make friends and follow your dreams.’ And yes, all of this is true....
Baccalaureate
Graduation 2024
but here is what I actually want to tell you before you leave: Don’t live your life just for the grade or the paycheck. I want to see you use your passions to challenge adversity and help those around you. Live your life doing good and challenging what you see as wrong in society no matter where your next journey takes you.”
“We have had a privilege to be here together at St. Johns, however the real world will not cradle us like our school community has done. So... remember what Mrs. Dorman told you months ago, You are more. You are more than your grades and the circumstances in your life. You are your own person with your own life, and you can control your own outcome... You can’t solve every problem, but together we can collectively solve 53 of them.”
“And finally,” he concluded, “since I’m attending the school of the Irish, I’ll leave you with an Irish blessing:
May good and faithful friends be yours, wherever you may roam.
May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields,
and, until we meet again, class of 2024, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
After thunderous applause, Head of Upper School
Jackie Lentini and President of the Board of Trustees
Nick Courtney ’03 presented the diplomas, citing each student’s college and career path of choice.
New this year, members of faculty and staff who have children in the Class of 2024 were able to present those diplomas themselves, the start of a heartwarming tradition.
Congratulations to all of the new graduates as you join the more than 2500 St. Johns Country Day School alumni who precede you!
Members of the Class of 2024
Colton Tyler Adler
Colin Reese Albright
Seth Riley Alford
George David Auchter V Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society
Sofia Keren Avila Member, National Honor Society
Alexandre Christian Barret
Savannah Kate Berrang Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society
Trevor Michael Bradley
Collin Andrew Briggs
Harry Wilbert Brown V Member, National Honor Society
Sofia Enitza Conde Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society St. Johns Student Since Preschool
Karley Ann Costlow
Kody Anthony Daneault
Reese Campbell Davis
Daniel Errnesto Deda
Jack Davis Ensell Member, National Honor Society St. Johns Student Since Preschool
Addison Ann Frisbee Member, National Honor Society
James George Gilson
Jackson Ronald Gosselin
Anthony Jaycob Hawk Member, National Honor Society
Torrin Michael Heinrichs St. Johns Student Since Preschool
Timothy Homer Jackson Jr Member, National Honor Society
Trenton Isiah Jackson
Katelyn Elizabeth Jacobs Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society
Mary Catherine Kent Member, National Honor Society
Jacob Thomas Kuramoto
Gianna Sophia Lentini Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society
Tristan Jackson Lentz Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society
Gentry Willem Loper Member, National Honor Society St. Johns Student Since Preschool
Roxy Lee Mathews Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society
Noah Wright Minners National Merit Scholar Member, National Honor Society
Ava Rae Morin Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society
Richard Carlton Nichols Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society
Connor Evan O’Steen Member, National Honor Society St. Johns Student Since Preschool
Cordelia Arwen Painter Member, National Honor Society St. Johns Student Since Preschool
Benjamin Milo Payton Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society St. Johns Student Since Preschool
Carter Thomas Pickett Member, National Honor Society
Chloe Delise Rachal
Julianna Marie Raimondi Member, National Honor Society
Sarah Eileen Robinson Member, National Honor Society
Ashlyn Kate Rose Member, National Honor Society
Isabela Tamara Rudy Member, National Honor Society
Mckenna Piper Sachs
National Merit Scholar Member, Cum Laude Society Member, National Honor Society
Charles Russell Scarlett Member, National Honor Society St. Johns Student Since Preschool
Avery Nicole Schulz
Gabrielle Grey Sessions Member, National Honor Society
Brendan Cahill Teofilo
Taylor James Thigpen Member, National Honor Society
Laura Elizabeth Walden St. Johns Student Since Preschool
Jack Alexander Walker
Sasha Noel Wallace James Aston Williams
Sophia Rika Woolard Member, National Honor Society St. Johns Student Since Preschool
Graduation Awards
Edwin Paul Heinrich Award: Taylor James Thigpen
Dora Helen Skypek Award: Katelyn Elizabeth Jacobs
Stephen F. Russey Best All-Around Young Man: Richard Carlton Nichols
The Roddey R. Fisher Award: Richard Carlton Nichols
Valedictorian Award: Gianna Sophia Lentini
English Award: Cordelia Arwen Painter
The Carol A. Hart Math Award: Mckenna Piper Sachs
Science Award: Noah Wright Minners
Cynthia C. Landry History Award: Tristan Jackson Lentz
Drama Award for Theatrical Performance: Anthony Jaycob Hawk
Cordelia Arwen Painter
The Mary Virginia Fisher French Award: Gianna Sophia Lentini
The Mary Virginia Fisher French Award: Tristan Jackson Lentz
Spanish Award: Sofia Enitza Conde
Stephen F. Russey Best All-Around Young Woman:
Sofia Enitza Conde
The Myrtle O’Shea Latin Award: Jack Alexander Walker
Instrumental Music Award: Timothy Homer Jackson Jr. Vocal Music Award: Sasha Noel Wallace
Captain Borries Cup Award: Kody Anthony Daneault
Linda C. Guswiler Athletic Award: Mary Catherine Kent
Will play sports at the college level
2024 AP Scholars* 10 St. Johns students since preschool
The
following colleges and universities accepted members of the Class of 2024:
Auburn University
University
Baylor University
Belmont University
Boston University
Clemson University
Coastal Carolina University
College of Charleston
Colorado School of Mines
Colorado State University
Columbus State University
Duke University
East Carolina University
Eckerd College
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Flagler College
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Gulf Coast University
Florida Institute of Technology
Florida International University
Florida Southern College
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Florida State University
Furman University
Georgia Southern University
Hofstra University
Indiana University
Ithaca College
Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville University
Kennesaw State University
Monmouth University Newberry College North Carolina State University
Nova Southeastern University Palm Beach Atlantic University
Piedmont University Point University
Queens University of Charlotte
College
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Savannah College of Art and Design
Stetson University
Syracuse University
Texas Christian University The University of Alabama
The University of Tampa
The University of Tennessee (Knoxville)
The University of West Florida
United States Air Force Academy
United States Naval Academy
University of Alabama at Birmingham
University of Brighton
University of Bristol
University of Central Florida
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Exeter
University of Florida
University of Georgia
University of Kent
University of Miami
University of Minnesota (Twin Cities)
University of Mississippi
University of New Haven
University of North Florida
University of Northwestern Ohio University of Notre Dame
University of Richmond University of South Carolina
of South Florida
of Virginia
University Wake Forest University
Washington University in St. Louis
Virginia Wesleyan College Western Carolina University
Thank You!
Fundraising remains a powerful way for St. Johns to thrive and grow. Whether it’s for new technology, scholarships, or extracurricular programs, these efforts embody the spirit of generosity.
At its heart, community fundraising is about parents, teachers, and students coming together. This year St. Johns’ Annual Fund received 100% participation from our Board of Directors, faculty/staff and Lower
School families. Combined with community partnership and the proceeds from special events, this not only raised essential funds but also strengthened the school’s community bonds.
This year, the proceeds from the Spartan Tennis Social, 18th Annual St. Johns Spartans Golf Tournament, and A Day at the Downs supported campus wellness initiatives. Holistic student health and mental wellness are very important to all of us, and
we appreciate your help in creating a legacy of wellness that will resonate with future generations. With heartfelt thanks to Ron and Angie Bare (parents of Erin Bare Willingham ’98 and grandparens of Ella ’33 and Audrey ’35 Willingham), St. Johns began construction on the new Bare Family Wellness Center over the summer and looks forward to a grand opening on Founders Day this fall.
A Day at the Downs
Spartan Tennis Social
18th Annual St. Johns Spartans Golf Tournament
The Cost of Educating a Spartan
St. Johns works so hard to fundraise, even though our families pay tuition. That’s because, tuition covers about 85% of the cost to educate one of our students. The School raises the rest through fundraising events, grants, donations, sponsorships, through community partners, and other initiatives. We do this in order to keep the cost of tuition as low as possible and put a St. Johns Education within reach of more families.
How we close the gap:
Donations
Sponsorships
Other Initiatives 85% Tuition 15%
Fundraising Events
Endowment
Grants
Community partners
HELP US FILL THE 15%
St. Johns Country Day School relies upon funds above and beyond tuition to cover the costs of delivery an outstanding educational experience. The School’s annual giving program, The St. Johns Fund, helps make the School’s wants and needs a reality, providing the best possible environment, tools, and technology for Spartans of today and tomorrow.
Your gift is a commitment to our students, our faculty, and the St. Johns experience. Every gift, large or small, matters. Thank you!
GIVE TODAY Please make your gift and commit to St. Johns today.
ONLINE: sjcds.net/give
PHONE: (904) 264-9572 or Text SPARTANS to 243-725
MAIL: St. Johns Annual Fund 3100 Doctors Lake Drive Orange Park, FL 32073
2024 Legacy Students
In February, St. Johns was honored to celebrate nearly 100 students and parents who comprise our “Legacy” (students of alumni parents) and “Lifer” (seniors enrolled since at least Kindergarten) students at our Legacy and Lifer Breakfast.
2023-2024 Alumni with Legacy Students Include:
Michele Adams-Lentz ’89
Tristan Lentz ’24
George Auchter ’89
George Auchter ’24
Kade Bender ’01
Vaughan Bender ’30
Doug Benefield ’03
Cary Cauthen Benefield ’02
Douglas Benefield ’35
Randa Blethyn ’95
Miles Blethyn ’28
Tina “Blake” Boyer ’05
Everett Boyer ’33
Dalton Boyer ’36
Catherine Butler ’95
Regan Butler ’25
Brooklyn Butler ’29
Jamie Carpentier ’97
Gemma Carpentier ’30
Matt Costarakis ’87
Ainsley Costarakis ’25
Nicholas Courtney ’03
Charlie Courtney ’33
Gwen Courtney ’36
William Courtney ’01
William Courtney ’34
Lane Courtney ’36
Hall Courtney ’38
Valerie Cowherd ’98
Westin Cowherd ’25
Gayle Simpson Garrison ’94
Jane Garrison ’25
(Mary Beth Garrison ’22)
Virginia Hall ’84
Grant Cassady ’25
David Heinrichs ’98 and Tyler Johnson ’01
Winnie Paige Heinrichs ’38
Robert Heinrichs ’97
Torrin Heinrichs ’24 and Adrian Heinrichs ’26
Hunter Hendrix ’97
Asher Hendrix ’28
Todd Hite ’95
Lee Hite ’28
Jodie Spencer Hollingsworth ’86
Wyatt Hollingsworth ’26, Samuel Hollingsworth ’29, and Lexi Hollingsworth ’32
Louis Irwin ’00
Riley Irwin ’34
Charlie Irwin ’36
Brad Jackson ’98
Kristin Hodge Jackson ’00
Clara Jackson ’37
Jeff Lewis ’89
Josh Lewis ’25
(JD Lewis ’22)
Matthew Loftis ’02
Ethan Loftis ’32
Mason Loftis ’31
April Meadows ’06
Jack Meadows ’37
Max Meadows ’34
Emily Wood Meagher ’10
Caylin Meagher ’30
Haley Morgan ’97
McCall Cauthen Thoemke ’97
Charlie Morgan ’25
Caris Morgan ’28
Robert Nichols ’85
Thomas Nichols ’27 (Julia Nichols ’21)
Rashara Dubose Perkins ’10
Jayden Perkins ’36
Aime Culton Peterson ’89
Luke Peterson ’25 (Lilly Peterson ’20)
Gene Polk ’01
Elise Polk ’32
Carlisle Polk ’34
Andrew Price ’02
David Price ’32
Whitney Price ’98
Olivia Price ’30
Hadley Price ’30
Marleigh Price ’35
Laura Proffitt ’92
Kendall Proffitt ’28, Brynley Proffitt ’29, Mila Proffitt ’31
Fisher Proffitt ’31
Brad Schmidt
Katie Gibbs Schmidt ’93
Sydney Schmidt ’26
John Schmidt ’32
Sandy Tisdelle ’01 Tillman Toth ’38
Sarah Voigt Voglewede ’11
Lizzie Voglewede ’37
Allison McClow Vogt ’96
Addy Vogt ’25
Anderson Vogt ’29 (Tripp Vogt ’23)
Robert Vogt ’13
Kinsley Roberts ’33
Stephanie Wilder ’00
Madison Wilder ’34
Max Wilder ’36
Jenna Williams ’10
Lorelai Lawrence ’31
Landon Lawrence ’32
Erin Willingham ’98
Ella Willingham ’33
Audrey Willingham ’35
Class of 2024 Lifers Include:
Sofia Enitza Conde
Jack Davis Ensell
Torrin Michael Heinrichs
Gentry Willem Loper*
Connor Evan O’Steen*
Cordelia Arwen Painter
Benjamin Milo Payton
Charles Russell Scarlett
Laura Elizabeth Walden
Sophia Rika Woolard
* Not pictured. See full photo on page 27.
Alumni Profiles
John Moore ’99
It’s not every day you meet someone whose passion for their community and dedication to their craft shines so brightly. John Moore ’99 exemplifies what it means to follow your own path, face challenges head-on, and emerge stronger and more successful on the other side. His journey from being a curious student at St. Johns to a thriving business owner in St. Augustine is filled with determination, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference.
Reflecting on his years at St. Johns, John cites the school’s rigorous academic environment and nurturing community as pivotal. “Being engaged in class and confident to voice my ideas were skills I learned at St. Johns,” he says. It was here that he developed the confidence to push boundaries, try new things, and adapt to different challenges—attributes that would become essential in his career. “I got used to presenting myself in a professional manner and pushing myself both academically and athletically,” John recalls. The supportive environment at St. Johns, coupled with the school’s strong emphasis on leadership and critical thinking, gave him the tools he needed to navigate the complexities of the real world.
One standout memory for John was being involved in extracurricular activities, particularly athletics. “I was on the basketball team, and it was an incredible experience. I loved playing basketball before, during, and after school,” he fondly remembers. John also recalls influential teachers like Mr. Fisher, Mr. [Rod] Cox, and Mr. Mac, who left lasting impressions on him. “Mr. Fisher was an institution, and Mr. Cox’s classes, especially those focused on government finance and budgeting, were incredibly impactful. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my career,” he says.
John values the inclusive and engaging atmosphere at St. Johns, a sentiment that motivates him to stay
connected with the school. “I’ve reconnected with folks like Ian [Gibson], who helps keep alumni plugged in,” he states. John is active in the St. Johns alumni network and cherishes the long-lasting relationships he built during his school years.
After graduating from St. Johns in 1999, John attended St. Johns River State College, and later the University of Florida before transferring to the University of North Florida, where he initially pursued a
degree in electrical engineering. However, John soon realized that his true passion lay elsewhere.
John’s passion for hospitality sparked during his tenure at P.F. Chang’s, where he started as a busboy and worked his way up to bartender and then national corporate trainer. It was here that he met a transformative figure in his life—a restaurant owner who became a mentor and later a business partner. “I formed a friendship with Tod Lineberry, and he watched me move through the ranks. When he planned to open a fourth restaurant, he asked, ‘Can you do that?’ and I said, ‘Absolutely,’” recounts John. This opportunity led John to dive deep into the world of whiskey and cocktails, culminating in his role in opening several new restaurant locations.
In 2019, John took a significant step by acquiring an existing restaurant in St. Augustine, which he renamed Forgotten Tonic. The early days of this venture were challenging, amplified by the unexpected onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Imagine fixing a car while it’s on the highway—that’s what it felt like,” he says. Despite these challenges, John’s resilience shone through. He navigated financial strains and staffing issues, continuously adapting to keep the restaurant afloat. “We started selling drinks on the street, and we did whatever we could to stay open,” he shares. His ability to pivot and find innovative solutions helped the business survive and eventually thrive.
One of John’s proudest accomplishments is creating a nurturing and educational environment at Forgotten Tonic for his employees. “I wanted it to be a center for hospitality professionals,” he says. “By fostering an atmosphere of mentorship and collaboration, he ensures that his team is well-rounded and prepared for future opportunities. John’s approach to leadership, influenced by his time at St. Johns, is centered on open communication and mutual respect. “Everyone’s on different paths, and right now those paths have intersected. We can all learn from each other,” he says.
John remains committed to his roots and often re-
flects on how his experiences at St. Johns have shaped his journey. He stays connected with the school through various alumni events and activities, making it a point to share his journey and insights with current students whenever possible.
“Most people don’t care where you went to college after your late twenties. It’s about what you can do and your reputation,” he advises. John’s story serves as an inspiration to current students, showing that success often involves navigating through unforeseen challenges and making the most of every opportunity.
Outside of work, John is a devoted family man. Balancing his professional ambitions with family life, he makes time for his wife, Kimber, and their two children. “I told my wife the restaurant would take one year of my life, but instead it took three because of COVID. Now, I have a much more balanced life–working from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. so I can spend the evening with my family,” he explains.
When it comes to his personal accomplishments, John is most proud of his resilience. “I’ve been knocked down to zero a bunch of times, but each time, I get back up and keep pushing forward,” he reflects.
John’s path from St. Johns Country Day School to a successful business owner is one of resilience, hard work, and unwavering commitment to his community. His story highlights the importance of finding mentors, staying adaptable, and never losing sight of one’s goals. As John continues to grow his business and mentor the next generation of hospitality professionals, he remains a shining example of what it means to turn challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality. finding mentors, staying adaptable, and never losing sight of one’s goals. As John continues to grow his business and mentor the next generation of hospitality professionals, he remains a shining example of what it means to turn challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality.
Jackie Rowland ’06
Reflecting on her journey from St. Johns Country Day School to becoming a prominent figure in Jacksonville’s engineering sector, Jackie Flanagan Rowland ’06 emphasizes the holistic impact of her preparatory school experience. “There wasn’t a single defining moment that shaped who I am today,” Jackie recalls. “Instead, it was the entire school culture that consistently pushed students toward excellence, with high expectations in both academics and leadership skills.” This environment, coupled with the unwavering commitment from her teachers, played a crucial role in her development. “They challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and provided constant support and encouragement, creating an environment that shaped my work ethic and perseverance,” she says.
During her junior year, Jackie participated in Youth Leadership JAX, which honed her teamwork and communication skills and laid a foundation for her future roles with the JAX Chamber and the Northeast Florida Builders Association. “The culture of leadership development at St. Johns provided the opportunity for
me to join Youth Leadership JAX, where I developed a strong sense of responsibility and initiative,” Jackie explains. This program underscored the importance of community and business leadership, a value she carries with her today as a business owner.
The culture of academic excellence at St. Johns was pivotal in Jackie’s achievement as a National Merit Scholar. “This milestone underscored my commitment to academic excellence and reinforced my drive to excel at the University of Florida and obtain my Professional Engineering License,” she says. The combination of rigorous academics and leadership opportunities at St. Johns equipped her with the perseverance and work ethic needed to excel in her field.
Jackie fondly remembers the close-knit community at St. Johns, where she formed lifelong friendships. “The intimate size of St. Johns allowed for personal interactions with all the students and faculty,” she reminisces. One of her cherished memories is meeting her best friend, April Sullivan Meadows ’06, at the Middle School New Student Pool Party. “April and her family have been instrumental in helping me get involved in the construction industry in Jax, specifically residential construction,” Jackie shares. Her enduring friendships and professional collaborations with other St. Johns graduates, including Doug Benefield ’03, Alicia Arnold Stewart ’09, Chris Wood ’06, Andrew Pu ’06, and Buck Williams ’05, have been pivotal in her career. “The influence of St. Johns in my industry and professional organizations is easy to quantify,” she adds.
Jackie’s passion for structural engineering stems from a lifelong desire to create. “Initially, I considered becoming an architect or interior designer but realized I wasn’t the artistic type,” she says. Recognizing her strengths in math and science, she decided that civil engineering was a better fit. “I love that I can physically see projects I work on,” Jackie explains. “Driving around town and seeing the homes, businesses, and communities that I helped design is incredibly rewarding.”
Her journey from a young engineering intern to founding her own firm is a testament to her dedication and resilience. “Starting my own structural engineering firm has been the scariest and most rewarding endeavor of my life,” Jackie shares. She and her co-founder, Adam Russell, along with her husband Parker, took a leap of faith, investing their savings, quitting their jobs, and starting without clients to avoid conflicts of interest with previous employers. “We hit the ground running, and it has been an incredibly rewarding journey because I can guide the company to make significant impacts on our clients, our team members, and the community,” she says.
Jackie’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is threefold: plan meticulously, believe in yourself, and build relationships. “We worked on our business plan for over a year before opening our doors. If your plan is well thought out, you need to turn it into action; without action, you will remain where you are today,” she advises. “Don’t be afraid to bet on yourself. If you won’t invest in yourself, why would others? Believe in your vision and be prepared to work tirelessly to turn it into reality. While the journey may be challenging, the rewards of building something meaningful and impactful are immeasurable,” Jackie adds. Her involvement in the community and commitment to her reputation have been cornerstones of her success. “Jacksonville is commonly called ‘The Biggest Small Town.’ By getting involved, you build relationships with people who can help you reach unimagined heights. While forging these relationships, remember that your reputation is everything. Follow through on your promises, knowing that every interaction either enhances or diminishes your reputation,” she emphasizes.
A day in Jackie’s life is anything but routine. “Each day might involve anything from crawling through attics to reverse engineer an existing structure, conducting engineering calculations, attending Board meetings, participating in networking events, or volunteering in my community,” she describes. Balancing
her roles as a mom, Chief Executive Officer, and engineer can be challenging, but Jackie strives to improve continuously. “To ensure I have quality time with my daughter and husband and recharge for the next day and week, I make a conscious effort to reserve most evenings and all weekends for family activities,” she says. Despite the demands, the diversity of tasks keeps her days stimulating and rewarding.
Last year, Jackie was recognized as the JAX Chamber Overall Small Business Leader of the Year Award for 2023. “Each of the eleven councils within the Chamber submitted a nominee for this prestigious award, and I was honored to be chosen as the Overall SBLY,” Jackie says. “I was the first Overall winner to represent Up Jax, the Young Professionals Council. This recognition was the culmination of years of hard work, dedication to the business industry, and active service to the community,” she adds. Jackie attributes this achievement to the unwavering support of her incredible team and family.
Alumni Profiles
In her downtime, Jackie enjoys spending time with her family by the water. “My young daughter loves swimming, so we often spend our free time at the pool or the beach,” she shares. As a lifelong equestrian, she also enjoys riding horses whenever she can. Her firm is currently involved in exciting projects, including multiple new subdivisions and the riverfront redevelopment in downtown Jacksonville, contributing to the vibrant growth of the community. “It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of the process of physically shaping our local community,” Jackie says. “We have ensured the safe structural design of thousands of homes and buildings on the First Coast.”
Jackie’s leadership style is inspired by Marianne Williamson’s quote: “Success means we go to sleep at night knowing our talents and abilities were used in a way that served others.” This principle guides her daily efforts to support her team, engage in community service, and actively participate in the business community. “I have the quote on my office wall to remind me everyday” she says.
Through her involvement with high school career academies and young professional groups, Jackie advocates for the next generation of engineers, promoting STEM education and career opportunities. “Engineering is a highly specialized field with a limited labor pool, so we dedicate considerable effort to outreach in the community, promoting STEM education and engineering-specific learning opportunities to inspire younger students to pursue engineering careers,” she explains. Her firm also hosts quarterly volunteer days and an annual Turkey Drive, exemplifying their commitment to community service. “Being able to use our company and resources to help others is something my team members and I are very honored to be able to do,” Jackie says.
Jackie’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and community impact. Her journey from St. Johns to becoming a leader in her field is an inspiring testament to the power of education, hard work, and community engagement.
Patrick Weaver ’03
Patrick Weaver ’03, whose brothers Andrew ’98 and Robert ’01 also graduated from St. Johns, attributes his achievements to the solid foundation laid by his family and the supportive environment at the School. “My brothers and I credit our parents, Anna and Gerry, for providing us with the opportunities they didn’t have as children,” Patrick shares. “Among those opportunities was attending a great school like St. Johns. We were blessed immeasurably by great teachers who poured themselves into our growth in and out of the classroom.” He fondly recalls the impact of educators like Mrs. Sellars, Coach Pompeo, Coach Hilliard, Mrs. Hart, Captain Klein, Mrs. Pardue, Mr. Keever, Mr. Fisher, and Mr. Mac, among others.
Sports played a significant role in Patrick’s experience at St. Johns. “Some of my favorite memories are related to playing sports and being around my teammates,” he says. “Soccer was a big part of my time at St. Johns, as were basketball and track. Competing in various sports and pushing one another to be the best students we could be created a strong bond among us.” The camaraderie extended beyond the field and track. “Spending time on the wall between classes and lunch sharing stories is where we had the most fun,” Patrick recalls.
Patrick’s interest in dentistry was inspired by his family. “My dad is a pediatric dentist, so dentistry was always something I was thinking about as a professional option,” he explains. “Growing up, my mom was also the office manager, so we were immersed in the profession as a family.” Despite initially aspiring to play for the Orlando Magic, Patrick soon realized his strengths lay elsewhere. “When I learned I was very bad at basketball, I figured I needed a backup plan,” he jokes. “Medicine and dentistry were the two fields I was most interested in, and ultimately, I decided dentistry would be the best fit for me.”
Following his graduation from St. Johns, Patrick attended Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, on a track scholarship, where he earned a bachelor’s in Biology with a minor in Spanish. “Samford was a wonderful experience and was the perfect-sized school to allow for participation in athletics while focusing on school,” he says. Patrick then attended the University of Florida College of Dentistry, followed by a two-year residency in pediatric dentistry at UF.
A typical week for Dr. Weaver involves a mix of patient care and specialized treatments. “I see patients in the office for exams and restorative treatments like fillings,” he explains. “One day a week, I treat children and special needs patients under sedation in a dental surgery center. These are patients who otherwise cannot tolerate treatment safely in a typical dental office.” Additionally, Patrick is a part of the Snyder Family Cleft and Craniofacial Team, treating children with cleft lip and palate and other craniofacial conditions both in the office and at Wolfson Children’s Hospital.
In his free time, Patrick enjoys exploring National Parks and hiking with his family. “We are kept busy with activities our kids are in, and I also enjoy playing golf and running,” he shares. His wife, Ellen, whom he met as a student at St. Johns, and their two children, James and Maddy, are the center of his world.
“My family is what I’m most proud of,” Patrick says. “Professionally, getting to work with my dad and
my brothers has been incredibly rewarding. We have expanded the company to include nine dental offices and a dental surgery center, allowing us to provide treatment to many underprivileged children in our area who otherwise had no access to dental care.”
The best part of Patrick’s job is the interaction with children and their families. “Watching the children grow and mature into young adults, seeing them accomplish different goals and meet milestones is something I really enjoy,” he says. “It’s impossible to have a difficult day when I walk into a room and see a four-year-old grinning from ear to ear. It is a great privilege to be entrusted with the care of parents’ most prized possessions, their children.”
Dr. Patrick Weaver’s journey from St. Johns Country Day School to a thriving career in pediatric dentistry is a testament to the power of a supportive family, dedicated educators, and a commitment to serving the community. His story reflects the values of hard work, perseverance, and giving back, making him a shining example of the St. Johns legacy.
Alumni Notes
1990’s
Beth Guswiler Johnson ’91 was named Dean of Nursing at Spartanburg Community College in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The school has a registered nursing degree program and a practical nursing diploma program, admitting about 300 students per year across three campuses.
Janna Tamargo ’93 got her PhD in sociology from the University of Florida.
2000’s
Jessica Carter O’Brien ’02 and her husband, Kelly, and their daughter Finley Grace, were thrilled to welcome baby Elliot
Chase O’Brien to their family in August 2023. Jessica is a mental health professional with Thriveworks.
Austin Hudson ’03 took a new job as Director of Strategic Partners at EbizCharge, a payment processing company that provides integrated payment software solutions. He and his wife, Laine, moved back to the Jacksonville area and their boys, Gray Powers (Grade 4) and Mitchell Hudson (Pre-K3) are starting at St. Johns this year. They are excited for the next steps in their journey and look forward to coming back to the St. Johns family!
Marcus Courtney ’05 was selected by New Orleans CityBusiness for its 2024 class of Money Makers, a publication that honors local professionals for financial achievements in their respective industries and their community impact.
Jen Cowie Stanton ’06 relocated to Naperville, Il with husband of 10 years, Mike, and is expecting baby #3 in October! The new
addition will join sister Libby (6) and soonto-be big brother Bobby (3), who is named after former St. Johns Board of Trustees President Robert Cowie.
2010’s
John David Horne ’10 was awarded the Pro Bono Service Award by the Clay County Bar Association at Law Day, April 25, 2024.
Sarah Hartley McMahon ’12 completed her 4th year as an OB/GYN resident in Denver, Colorado and was able to go on a 3 week global health trip to rural Bolivia. While there, she completed hysterectomies and reconstructive surgery for women with pelvic organ prolapse and fibroids. Sarah graduated this summer and started her career as a general OB/GYN in Denver this fall.
Jean Marie and Andrew Petty ’13 welcomed John Southward Petty to the family on May 6, 2024. John is especially adored by his big brother Cameron (2).
When three alumni from the class of ’85—Will Newton, Michael Darby and Robbie Nichols—got together earlier this year, they took it upon themselves to recreate one of their yearbook photos. Before and after seen above!
Alumni Notes
Nikki Aiosa ’15 got her PhD in Analytical Chemistry from the Georgia Institute of Technology this summer.
Several Spartans were working on Capitol Hill this summer and took a moment to snap a photo! Marie Price ’16 works for House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik, Patrick Walsh ’23 interned with Representative Aaron Bean (FL), and Abbie Campbell ’22 interned with Representative Mike Garcia, (CA).
Jack Gare ’16 works for Johnson & Johnson Vision and was named a 2023 President’s Club winner.
Ryan Hilliard ’17 is living in Chicago, IL and working as an analyst for Nissan North America.
Kamy Loustau ’19 graduated from Princeton last year and is now a Middle School math teacher in the Bronx, NYC.
Orisa Patel ’19 will start at the University of Miami in August, working toward her masters degree in health administration at the Miami Herbert Business School.
A group of alums gathered in Western North Carolina over the summer to celebrate the graduation of Sergio Arellano ’19 from University of Florida. These included Nick Ferris ’19, Nick Rogers ’19 (not pictured), Ben Kailes ’19, Angie Arellano ’22, Jack Minners ’22, and former student Max Sobel, along with family and friends. Congrats, Sergio!
Kay Kay Harding ’15 married Elisha Lloyd at the Grand Ol’ Barn in New Smyrna Beach in August 2023. Kaykay’s twin brother Patrick Harding ’15 was in the wedding party.
2020’s
Sheila Hodges ’20 graduated from University of Pennsylvania with an Honors of Communications with a certificate in French and proficiency in Italian. In the fall, she will move on to Harvard Divinity School to get a masters of theological studies.
Jessica Linge ’20 graduated from Florida State University. (Shown here with JohnB Linge ’21)
Delaney Payton ’20 graduated from Florida State University and will be attending Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine in the fall.
Christian Sabbagh ’20 graduated from University of South Florida with degrees in biomedical sciences and political sciences.
Claire Trammell ’20 graduated from Samford University.
Alumni Notes
In April, three Spartan alums, Mia Sadler ’21, John Cabrera ’22, and Mia Morin ’22, presented their ongoing academic research projects at the University of Florida 25th Annual Undergraduate Research Symposium.
Clayton Philpott ’22 is currently working for J.B. Coxwell as a hillman on a pipe crew in Jacksonville, on a contract through JEA.
Clay County Rescue Mission received the Vystar Veteran Foundation Grant for $20,000 this year to facilitate their work helping veterans and active duty members. In their announcement of the grant, they gave a huge shout out and thank you to Taylor Thigpen ’24, who wrote the grant for them.
Summer Alumni Gathering
This summer, St. Johns was thrilled to host an alumni get together at Jacksonville’s Iguana on Park. Thanks to everyone who stopped by! We can’t wait to see you again next time. Attendees included William Cooper ’23, Jordan (Robbins) Rechcigl ’10, Nick Courtney ’03, Sean Bowles ’11, Chloe Davis ’21, Tilson Branch ’21, John Nowicki ’21, Isabella Richardson ’21, Sally (Sloan) Sullivan ’10, Hwang Marino ’09, Julia Schildberg ’21, Ethan Albright 21, Julia Nichols ’21, Robert Nichols ’85, Tyler Antar ’05, Sarah (Voigt) Voglewede ’11, and Rod and Mary Virginia Fisher.
In Memoriam
Bruce Carter ’72, brother to Robert Carter ’76 and James Carter ’78 and husband to former faculty Ann Carter, passed away on December 16, 2023.
Charles McKellar, former board member, and father to Mary Mckellar Holman ’89 and Fran Mckellar Jackson ’92, passed away in February 2024.
Geraldine Hicks Aschenbeck, former Lower School teacher and mother to Chip Aschenbeck ’87 and Gretchen Aschenbeck, passed away in April 2024.
Jean Southward Dinkins passed away in May 2024. Jean was mother to Matt Dinkins (Sandy Ellmaker ’83), Laura Dinkins Maierhoffer ’85, and Ben Dinkins ’88 (Lisha Frick Dinkins ’88) and grandmother to Jean Marie Maierhoffer Petty ’13 (Drew Petty ’13), Samuel Maierhoffer ’15, Lillian Dinkins ’17, Thomas Maierhoffer ’17 (Lauren Hodges Maierhoffer ’17), Victor Dinkins ’18, Henry Dinkins ’18, Meredith Maierhoffer ’19, Caroline Dinkins ’19, Abigail Maierhoffer ’23, and Josie Dinkins ’23.
William Thompson, President of the Board of Trustees 1985-1987 and father to Lance Thompson ’76, Jody Thompson ’78, Ashley Thompson Senn ’86, and Ruth Thompson Burchfield ’8, passed away in June 2024.
sjcds.net/alumni to send us your updates and let us know if you prefer to receive “1953” electronically.
Published by
St. Johns Country Day School
Mail: 3100 Doctors Lake Drive
Orange Park, FL 32073-6997
Phone: (904) 264-9572
Email: info@sjcds.net
Web: sjcds.net
Head of School
Valorie Baker vbaker@sjcds.net
Director of Advancement
Liz Nottingham lnottingham@sjcds.net
Director of Communications
Regan Minners rminners@sjcds.net
Director of Development
Ryan Trevett rtrevett@sjcds.net
SPARTAN PREPAY
The Alumni Remission program will be available through the 2025-2026 school year. To lock into the 40% remission rate, you must pay a one-time deposit of $25,000 by May 1, 2025. For more information, visit sjcds.net/alumni or contact Director of Admissions Kelly Risdon (krisdon@sjcds.net).
St. Johns thanks those who served on the 2023-2024 Board of Trustees:
Officers:
Nicholas K. Courtney, President
Allan E. Wulbern, Vice-President
Danny Towers, Secretary
Craig Phillips, Treasurer
Members:
Winfield Rogers Duss
John Maierhoffer
Ryan J. Mittauer
Stacey Myers
Eugene B. Nichols , Immediate Past President
Trustee Emeritus:
Margaret Rood Gibbs
Rick Gregson
Richard C. M. Wilson
Ex Officio:
Valorie Baker, Head of School
Pamela Petty
Michael A. Robinson
W. Judson Sapp
Headmaster Emeritus:
Stephen F. Russey
Winner of this year’s Chalice photo contest, Geli Yepez ’25 took this one during Homecoming Week, on Career Day, as the then-junior class practiced its lip sync contest performance. St. Johns Country Day School 3100 Doctors Lake Drive Orange Park, FL 32073-6997
