THE PRIDE | Winter 2018

PRIDE THE

The Future Takes Shape The community celebrates the placement of the final beam on the new Winn Science Center

Helping Hands Students respond to natural disasters

Winter 2018 Volume 23, Issue 1 St. Mark’s School of Texas Alumni Magazine

April 19–21 Alumni Weekend 2018 May 25 Graduate Luncheon June 7 Young Alumni Service Event

See the full calendar of events at www.smtexas.org/AlumniEvents

Contents

THE

PRIDE St. Mark’s School of Texas Alumni Magazine Volume 23, Issue 1 • Winter 2018

6

ON CAMPUS

22

2 | Letter from the Editor 3 | Campus Snapshot 4 | State of the Arts 6 | Coaching Character 12 | Holiday Traditions 16 | Making a Difference 18 | Campus Visitors 20 | Student Accolades 22 | Helping Hands

ALUMNI NEWS

34

26 | Alumni Programs

SPOTLIGHT ON PHILANTHROPY

30 | Masters of Their Craft 34 | Honoring a Living Legend

FEATURES

50

36 | ISAS Self-Study 38 | Goals for St. Mark’s IV 50 | The Future Takes Shape

NOTES AND REMARKS

54 | Class Notes 61 | Faculty Notes 62 | In Memoriam 64 | Endnotes

ABOUT OUR COVER Crews install the final steel beam of the Winn Science Center, signed by the Class of 2018, faculty, staff, and members of the Science Center Project team.

St. Mark’s School of Texas

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On Campus

from the editor couldn’t help but wonder about the amazing students who would take these same steps. What lessons will the next generation learn? How many future inventors, innovators, leaders, and explorers will walk these halls, study in these labs, and be inspired by the teachers who will bring these classrooms to life?

The buildings we create inspire us and reflect who we are as a community. Walking through the openair steel frame of the Winn Science Center, I felt pride and gratitude that our St. Mark’s community never rests but is always looking forward. I stood on solid proof that our community can turn dreams into reality for our boys and for generations to come. Marksmen certainly will receive a first-rate science education, but I have come to realize that many of St. Mark’s lasting lessons extend beyond academics. I am excited to watch faculty mentor their students in this new space, igniting curiosity and teaching lessons of character and leadership alongside science and engineering.

A

s we move from winter into spring, we experience the wonder of nature with all its possibilities. Soon, the barren lacebark

elms along Preston Road will be in full bloom, just in time to create a beautiful frame around another transformation that has already begun. The Winn Science Center has risen from the ground in just a few months, announcing to everyone that renewal and growth is taking place once again at St. Mark’s.

A few weeks ago, our team was invited to tour the construction site. Members of The Beck Group pointed out the future locations of the classrooms, maker spaces, laboratories, and greenhouse. As we walked around the dusty concrete floors, I

The energy around the Science Center Project, as well as Goals for St. Mark’s IV and the ISAS SelfStudy, have given Trustees, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and students additional opportunities to engage with one another and analyze the ways St. Mark’s can continue to grow even stronger.

In this issue, you will read about the progress being made on all of these strategic fronts. The growth we see on campus and in our boys is a direct result of the continued dedication and support of our St. Mark’s community. As spring unfolds, we should all take a moment to stop and appreciate both the wonder of nature and the wonder of this amazing community.

imagined how the completed structure would appear at the end of this calendar year, and I

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

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campus snapshot When the Winn Science Center construction site closed off the southwest corner of campus, a new playground was constructed just steps from the Lower School building. The youngest Marksmen are thrilled.

As work began on the Winn Science Center, construction crews fenced off the grounds around the old science building’s C-Wing. This included the Lower School playground, which had to be removed. Unfortunately, the existing equipment couldn’t fit in the playground’s new location, nestled within the L-shaped Lower School building.

Thanks to a generous $210,000 gift from the St. Mark’s Parents’ Association, a specially designed playground was constructed over the summer of 2017.

As for the original equipment, each section was deconstructed and carefully packed away for transport to underprivileged schools in the Dominican Republic, with the help of the Be An Angel children’s charity.

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A Collection of Student Ceramics, Drama, and Woodworking

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

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(clockwise from left) The St. Mark’s Drama Department performs The Odd Couple JD McClain ’20 Toussaint Pegues ’18 (opposite) Cal Rushton ’18

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(above) Ryan Warner ’19 (right) Crawford Helbing ’18

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

On Campus

(clockwise from top left) John Harbison ’19 Charlie Hubbard ’19 Blake Rogers ’19

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On Campus

sports news Head Varsity Football Coach Bart Epperson congratulates players as they come off the field

G

“

ood sportsmanship is at the core of developing and educating the whole boy,” said Cory Martin, Head Varsity

Soccer Coach and Upper School math teacher.

“How you handle success and failure reveals a great deal about character and empathy. Losing with dignity and winning with class are lessons that will serve our young men well, long after they have forgotten about the Mean Value Theorem.”

Character isn’t taught in a single lesson. Rather, coaches regularly weave teachable moments into the time they

Coaching Character

spend with their athletes. One tangible example of this effort occurred after the varsity soccer team’s season home opener in mid-November against the

Athletics are an important pillar of the Marksman

Kinkaid Falcons. While the Falcons won on the

experience: 91 percent of boys in the Upper School play

field, Coach Martin and Kinkaid Coach Curt

at least one sport, and more than half play two or more.

Winning is always rewarding, of course, but athletics at St. Mark’s is about a lot more than just the results on a scoreboard. For the coaches, true wins come when young athletes learn and appreciate the importance of competing with respect, humility, and integrity.

Brooks thought it would be powerful for the boys to sit down and enjoy a meal together. So, while still in their uniforms, the Lions and Falcons gathered together to enjoy a feast of pizza and Gatorade.

“The meal helped reinforce the commonality that these young men share,” said Coach Martin.

“Our boys learned that their ‘opponent’ is not

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On Campus | THE PRIDE

St. Mark’s School of Texas

On Campus

necessarily the ‘enemy,’ but rather a fellow competitor with whom we might have more in common than we realize.”

From their earliest days at St. Mark’s, boys are exposed to character-building lessons in every facet of their education.

“It starts in PE classes when our youngest students are competing in games against each other,” said Josh Friesen, Assistant Athletic Director. “Every day, the coaches reinforce certain expectations about how our boys should handle themselves.”

In practices and in games, coaches go beyond their prescribed role of training effective competitors. Like everyone at St. Mark’s, they focus on teaching their boys to be men of character. Coach Josh Friesen teaches his volleyball players to call themselves on touches when the referee fails to call it. Basketball players are encouraged to raise a hand when the official calls them for a foul and to help an opponent when they have been knocked to the ground.

(above) Soccer players from St. Mark’s and Kinkaid enjoy dinner after a game (right) Coach Jason Leneau shows wrestlers proper setup techniques from the collar tie position

“I’ve seen the Lions lose close games,” said Mark Sullivan, Director of Athletics. “But our kids learn early on that it’s better to lose with honor rather than collect a shallow win.”

In and out of the pool, Head Varsity Swimming

Sullivan said. “They have learned to be honest

and Water Polo Coach Mihai Oprea has stressed

competitors who know they have to earn their

that seniors are responsible for serving the needs

successes and don’t expect them to be handed to

of younger athletes, rather than the reverse. At

them. They learn to be supportive teammates

meets, the entire team of more than 60 boys

who celebrate the victories of others as much

stands on the side of the pool cheering their

as their own and maintain a respect for their

teammates until the very last Marksman finishes.

opponents in the process.”

“These might seem like little things in any given moment, but they are skills taught to the boys in the early stages of their development,”

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On Campus

sports news

Emphasizing character helps boys become better men outside of competition, but it also leads them to be better players and athletes. Coaches work to inspire their players, as well as motivate them to be better every day. Throughout the fall and winter, Marksmen gave it their all.

(above) Volleyball players block a hit from Fort Worth Country Day (above right) Cross-country runners participate in the pre-SPC time trial

Volleyball

Cross-Country

The varsity volleyball team, led by coaches Darren

The varsity cross-country team, coached by

Teicher and Brian Meyer, entered the Southwest

John Turek and Ryan Hershner, capped a season

Preparatory Conference tournament as the third

of impressive team results by finishing fourth

seed in the North Zone and won their first match

out of 15 SPC schools, which was the closest

against St. Stephen’s from Austin. After a tough

championship meet in recent history.

defeat against Greenhill in the semifinals, the

Seth Weprin ’19 led the team with a tenth-place

Lions roared back to win their final match against

finish and was immediately followed by Andres

tournament host Trinity Valley. The victory earned

Arroyo ’20 in eleventh place. Both boys earned

the Lions third place in SPC for the third year

All-SPC Honors for their performance.

in a row.

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

On Campus

(clockwise from top left) Jonathan Taylor ’19 rushes the ball past Houston Christian The varsity wrestling team at the SPC Championship All-American Tucker Ribman ’18 and Coach Arredondo at the National Prep Wrestling Championship

Wrestling In his first year back on campus, Reyno Arredondo ’87

Colin Campbell ’20 kicks a field goal set up

by Will Forbes ’18

coached the varsity wrestling team to a fifth-place finish in the SPC Championship, where several individual wrestlers distinguished themselves.

Co-Captain Calvin Hosler ’18 (170 lbs.) placed second and earned All-SPC, and fellow CoCaptain Tucker Ribman ’18 (138 lbs.) remained

Football

unbeaten in the season and won his second SPC

Under the Friday night lights, the Lions gave

Championship. Prior to SPC, Tucker won the Texas

football fans a lot to cheer about on the field.

Prep State Wrestling Championship, qualifying

The Lions won five of their eight games and

for the National Prep Wrestling Championship. At

finished fourth in SPC. Under the play calling of

Nationals, Tucker finished eighth in his weight class

Head Coach Bart Epperson, Colin Neuhoff ’19 led

and was named an All-American, the first in School

the team in passing with 1,244 yards and 15 TDs.

history since 2008. Tucker will wrestle at Harvard

Colin also led the Lions on the ground with 358

next fall.

rushing yards and 3 TDs. Paxton Scott ’20 led the Lions in receiving with 405 yards and 5 TDs.

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On Campus

sports news

(from left to right) Eric Yoo ’21 runs the ball down the field in the third-place SPC game against Greenhill Reece Rabin ’18 in the SPC Quarterfinal Game against Oakridge The varsity swim team sings the Alma Mater after receiving their SPC trophy

Basketball After a strong regular season and having secured the top seed in the North Zone, the varsity basketball team, coached by Greg Guiler, began the SPC Tournament with a first-round win against Oakridge. In an intense semifinal game against Houston Christian, the Lions and Mustangs traded leads early until the Mustangs pulled away in the second half. Not to be deterred, the Lions, led by their six resilient seniors, responded well and secured a gritty 55–48 victory against The Kinkaid School in the third-place game, putting the finishing touches on a 25-win season.

Swimming Competing for their tenth consecutive SPC Championship, the varsity swim team performed determined, earning first place in the 200 Freestyle Relay, and second place in the 200 Medley Relay, 50 and 100 Freestyle, and the 400 Freestyle Relay.

Led by coaches Mihai and Janis Oprea, nearly 90 percent of the team swam personal bests at the

Soccer

meet. When the final scores were tallied, however,

The varsity soccer team earned a first-round bye

the Lions found themselves a heart-breaking four

at the SPC Tournament following a great regular

points behind this year’s champion, St. John’s

season with only one loss in conference play. After

School. The young Lions are already looking

95 minutes of scoreless soccer in the quarterfinal

forward to getting back into the pool to reclaim the

match against the St. John’s Mavericks, Kabeer

championship next winter.

Singh ’18 scored on a decisively struck free kick in extra time to secure victory for the Lions. The Lions

Coach Sullivan is among those celebrating the

faced unbeaten Episcopal High School and rival

accomplishments of the athletes and the leaders

Greenhill in their next two games, competing well,

who inspire them. “The coaches care deeply

but ultimately falling short in both. Led by Coach

about their athletes, and, in turn, the boys give

Cory Martin and five seniors, the Lions finished

them everything they have to give,” he said. “It’s

fourth in SPC, saw growth in the underclassmen,

extremely satisfying to see this in action throughout

and extended their streak of consecutive years

each season and year. Everyone in the program

playing in the championship bracket to 14,

takes great pride in representing St. Mark’s, and the

currently the longest in the SPC.

relationships they develop carry on well after the last whistle.”

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On Campus | THE PRIDE

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Do you follow @SMTXathletics?

Follow the Lions on Twitter for the latest sports scores, updates, and news.

/SMTXathletics

On Campus

holiday traditions

The Season of Giving The holiday season kicked off with a groovy Scooby-Doo-themed McDonald’s Week. In November, Marksmen and Hockadaisies gathered at the PrestonRoyal McDonald’s and raised more than $12,000 for Austin Street Center.

After Thanksgiving, the Senior Class challenged the community to donate 2,018 presents during the annual Gift Drive, a goal they eagerly met and surpassed.

Just before Christmas, seniors, dressed as Santa and his elves, handed out gifts at David’s Place to a roomful of gleeful children and donated the others to the Salvation Army and other local agencies.

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Grandparents’ Day More than 600 grandparents and friends joined Marksmen for Grandparents’ Day. Guests attended classes, Chapel, and lunch with their grandsons.

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holiday traditions Lessons & Carols On December 12, 2017, St. Mark’s held its 66th annual Festival of Lessons & Carols. Hundreds of School and Dallas community members joined the St. Mark’s Choir in an evening of candlelit carols and readings.

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On Campus

All-School Christmas Party One of St. Mark’s most iconic traditions continued as seniors carried their Lower School buddies on their shoulders into the Great Hall to decorate the Christmas tree. Student Council President Canyon Kyle ’18 announced the final Gift Drive tally at more than 2,880 gifts, which were accepted by Major Jon Rich, Salvation Army DFW Metroplex Commander.

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On Campus

your support makes these moments possible Making a Difference Each year, the St. Mark’s Fund supports campus life at 10600 Preston Road.

Accounting for more than 10 percent of the overall budget, the St. Mark’s Fund allows for a St. Mark’s education to be truly extraordinary.

(clockwise from top left) Students in Ms. Frazier’s Humanities class use iPads and Google Classroom to complete a digital interactive notebook on Native American mythology Joe Lofgren ’19 and English Department Chair Michael Morris decide to hold their one-on-one writing conference outside Two Lower Schoolers in Mrs. Livengood’s music class take turns practicing on their recorders

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On Campus | THE PRIDE

St. Mark’s School of Texas

Your Gift Makes a Difference At St. Mark’s School of Texas, our boys are given unlimited opportunities to dream and grow. With the help of their teachers, coaches, and advisors, Marksmen will be prepared for fulfilling lives of leadership and responsibility. Through your gift to the St. Mark’s Fund, you are responsible for changing lives.

~ Last year, 55 percent of alumni and 91 percent of parents participated in the

St. Mark’s Fund, helping the School raise more than $4 million.

~ The St. Mark’s Fund accounts for more than 10 percent of the School’s yearly

operating budget and provides ongoing opportunities for students and faculty.

~ Our donors and volunteers are a critical component of the day-to-day life on campus,

ensuring we have the resources necessary for our boys to thrive.

To make your gift or pledge, please visit www.smtexas.org/makeagift

Thank you for being part of an extraordinary year at St. Mark’s.

On Campus

campus visitors

St. Mark’s has already hosted several impressive guests this year, from bestselling authors to an alumnus who advised the President of the United States.

Walker Visiting Scholar: Robert Edsel ’75

Senior Leadership Dinner

Bestselling author, historian, and Distinguished

The Character and Leadership Development

Alumnus Robert Edsel ’75 returned to campus

Program invited Ned Price ’01 to be the keynote

as the Willard E. Walker, Jr. ’66 Visiting Scholar.

speaker at this year’s Senior Leadership Dinner.

The founder of the Monuments Men Foundation

Ned spoke to the Class of 2018 about his time

spent two days visiting with students in history

working in the highest levels of government,

classes and presenting to his fellow classmates at

including the Central Intelligence Agency,

the Alumni Association’s first Alumni Leadership

the National Security Council, and the Obama

Speaker Series event of the year.

Administration, where he served as Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs.

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On Campus | THE PRIDE

St. Mark’s School of Texas

On Campus

Literary Festival The 11th Annual Literary Festival welcomed Stacy Clark, children’s author and mother of Dylan ’14; Billy Crockett, singer-songwriter; Evan Daugherty ’00, screenwriter; Tony Earley,

Dennard Visiting Scholar: Grace Lin

fiction writer, essayist, and Vanderbilt University

Children’s writer and illustrator Grace Lin spent

professor; Dana Goodyear, poet, University of

a day on campus as this year’s Robert E. Dennard

Southern California professor, and staff writer for

Visiting Scholar. The bestselling author of books

The New Yorker; and Mike Wilson, editor of

like The Year of the Dog and Dim Sum for Everyone!

The Dallas Morning News. The guest writers spent

shared her creative process with Lower and Middle

the day in various classes, sharing their insights

School students.

and advice with Marksmen.

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student accolades by the numbers Facts and Figures from Across Campus

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12

the TPSMEA’s All-State Band, Jazz Band,

Scholarship Program as Semifinalists or

Pete Sessions’ Summer Leadership and

Choir, or Orchestra

Commended Scholars

Growth Program in Washington, D.C.

3

4,092

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distinctions at the Baylor University Model

Competition, of which Cal Rothkrug ’18

2017 Chinese Calligraphy Competition

United Nations Conference

was named one of 101 Regional Finalists

hosted by the Confucius Institute at the

St. Mark’s musicians who earned a spot in

Seniors recognized by the National Merit

Marksmen who attended U.S. Congressman

75

Ceramic bowls crafted by St. Mark’s students donated to the North Texas Food Bank’s Empty Bowls project

Marksmen who received special

Applicants to the 2017 Siemens

Marksmen recognized as winners in the

University of Texas at Dallas

21

Athletes who earned All-SPC at the Fall

6

Students from the Class of 2026

2,356

and Winter Championships

who earned perfect scores on the

Army by the Lower School “Souper

WordMasters Challenge vocabulary test,

Bowl” Drive

Cans of soup collected for the Salvation

of which there were only 95 nationwide

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On Campus | THE PRIDE

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Do you

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Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for all of the latest news, photos, and videos.

/smtexas

/smtexas1906

On Campus

Helping Hands the Community Service Board held its first meeting.

St. Mark’s prepares boys to go out into the world and

The Clothing Drive was scheduled for September,

succeed and also to make a positive difference. The School

and the School’s partner, the Society of St. Vincent

has long maintained a commitment to its second mission

de Paul, already had plans to route donations to

of purposeful engagement with the broader community.

those affected by the Hurricane. In all, more than 3,100 pounds of clothing were collected at St. Mark’s.

This commitment, reinforced through Goals IV, is evident in visible ways, from

“It’s amazing how much our community could pull

School-sponsored Community Service drives to individual students who invest

together in just two weeks to try to help thousands

hundreds of hours mentoring local school students, serving meals at Austin

of people in desperate need,” said Jack Katz ’19,

Street Center, and constructing Habitat for Humanity homes.

who chaired the Clothing Drive along with Rohan Vemu ’18 and Toby Nwafor ’20. “The community

The importance of community engagement and civic responsibility is codified

managed to surpass our goal by more than a

in St. Mark’s graduation requirements: 15 hours of Community Service each

thousand pounds.”

year of Upper School. But Marksmen are known for going above and beyond.

Last year, each Upper Schooler logged an average of 50 volunteer hours.

On September 10, the National Day of Service, 150 freshmen from St. Mark’s and Hockaday gathered

When tragedy struck the Texas coast in August 2017, members from nearly

in the Great Hall to stuff care bags for the Foster

every facet of the St. Mark’s community mobilized to help. Days after

Kids Charity. More than 2,000 care bags were

Hurricane Harvey devastated Houston and the surrounding area,

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On Campus | THE PRIDE

St. Mark’s School of Texas

On Campus

loaded onto a truck for delivery to foster children in

2024 sent handwritten notes of encouragement

Beaumont, Texas. Later, the Senior Class joined the

and support to each of the nearly 300 St. Mark’s

effort, packing an additional 600 bags.

community members living in the Houston area.

(opposite page) Students fill up boxes for the Community Service Food Drive

Letters were mailed to alumni, parents of alumni, In the Lower School, the youngest Marksmen

grandparents, and former faculty and staff, while

organized an additional response, dubbed the

others were delivered in person at the Alumni

Harvest for Harvey Gift Card Drive. Students

Association’s annual Houston regional event

donated nearly 100 gift cards from stores like Home

in September.

(above left) Lower Schoolers donate gift cards for victims of Hurricane Harvey (above) Mrs. Israni’s advisory drops off their contributions to the Food Drive

Depot, Lowe’s, and Wal-Mart, totaling more than $2,300. The gift cards were delivered to the coastal

“On an awful day like today, it was so heartwarming

communities of Port Aransas and Ingleside, Texas.

to receive this letter from a St. Mark’s sixth grader,” Scott Carlson ’05 said in a Facebook post sharing

“Our boys are learning empathy and generosity as

his note. “I’m thankful every day for the teachers

they help their fellow Texans on the Gulf Coast,” said

who invest their lives in teaching boys how to

Head of Lower School Sherri Darver. “This amazing

become compassionate and selfless young men.”

community has once again made me exceptionally proud to be a member here.”

Many other Houston-based community members responded to the boys’ letters, passing along their

The St. Mark’s bond proved especially strong in

gratitude and forming new relationships within the

the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. The Class of

Marksman Network.

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On Campus

Farther southwest, in a small Houston suburb, one of Scott Hunt’s former students was on the front lines of the recovery effort. In addition to being the Vice President and Corporate Counsel for Collin Street Bakery, William McNutt ’07 serves as a Tactical Instructor and JAG Officer for the Texas State Guard Officer Candidate School. In the wake of Harvey, Will was assigned as liaison to Task Force Central, headquartered in the library of Katy High School. When the Task Force’s main phone number was accidentally published, a constant stream of rescue calls started rolling in. For the next 76 hours, Will and his teammates worked around the clock to coordinate rescue efforts through a host of military (above) Lt. William McNutt ’07 briefs Texas State Guardsmen on the day’s assignments (opposite page) US Marines, Texas State Guardsmen, US Army Reserve soldiers, and Texas National Guardsmen prepare for a boat rescue, similiar to the ones that Lt. McNutt coordinated

For two members of the St. Mark’s community, Hurricane Harvey’s landfall came with an official call to action. Only one week into the new school year, Governor Abbott activated the entire Texas National Guard in response to the hurricane.

The call to service included Scott Hunt, St. Mark’s photography instructor and Arnold E. Holtberg Master Teaching Chair. Captain Hunt was deployed to San Antonio, where he served for two weeks as the Texas State Guard’s liaison officer to the Texas Army National Guard Texas Force South.

Immediately after Harvey passed through Texas, Scott was accountable for 12 Evacuee Tracking Teams, six shelter operations teams, several cross-trained medical personnel, and one Point of Distribution team. He tackled challenges such as downed power lines and road debris and coordinated evacuations and shelter operations.

Throughout the crisis, Scott relied on his leadership and judgment, skills he teaches his students every day.

“St. Mark’s often talks about leadership through the lens of empathetic service that moves the community towards a common goal,” Scott said.

“The military calls that ‘selfless service,’ and they teach many of the same virtues that we use in our work with the boys.”

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On Campus | THE PRIDE

and government agencies. Over those three days, Will and his team contributed to more than 1,300 boat rescues in the impacted areas, saving an untold number of lives.

“We were all over the place, every gym, every hallway, every classroom, there were men in sleeping bags,” Will told The ReMarker in September. “I was very proud of the way Texas responded to the storm. In particular, the civilian response was overwhelming.

And the effect was in the results, with very few lives lost and reduced crime in comparison.”

One of the most important themes woven through the St. Mark’s experience is community. Marksmen are taught that they are part of a larger world, and they are responsible for moving their communities forward in meaningful and positive ways. From the classrooms to the front lines, we saw this commitment carried out in the Marksmen response to Hurricane Harvey.

As Eugene McDermott Headmaster David W. Dini said in a letter to the community following the hurricane’s landfall, “While it has been heartbreaking to witness the human tragedy, it has also been inspiring to see citizens pulling together to support one another.”

St. Mark’s School of Texas

On Campus

2,650 Snack bags packed for foster children in Beaumont and Port Arthur

3,100 Pounds of clothes donated through the Clothing Drive

$2,300 Value of gift Cards donated

by Lower Schoolers to victims of Hurricane Harvey

300 Cards handwritten by the Class of 2024 to St. Mark’s community members in the Houston area

Photo by Lance Cpl. Niles Lee, US Marines St. Mark’s School of Texas

Winter 2018 | On Campus

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Alumni News alumni programs

For the year’s third Alumni Leadership Speaker Series event, Marksmen were invited to An Evening at the George W. Bush Presidential Center featuring the Center’s President and CEO, Ken Hersh ’81. During the thought-provoking

Alumni Leadership Speaker Series

conversation, Mr. Hersh highlighted significant

Through the Alumni Leadership Speaker

artifacts in the Bush Museum, such as President

Series, the Alumni Board continues to host

Bush’s personal diary, which included the

events for alumni to enjoy opportunities for

events surrounding September 11, 2001. He

unique experiences and intellectual growth.

also recounted some of the fascinating topics

The Series kicked off in November 2017 with

discussed at the recent World Economic Forum in

a breakfast featuring Willard E. Walker, Jr. ’66

Davos, Switzerland, like the rise of cryptocurrency

Visiting Scholar Robert Edsel ’75. Mr. Edsel led

and cyber warfare. The Bush Institute is focused

a powerful discussion with fellow alumni on his

on developing principle-based leaders, and Hersh

bestselling book, Monuments Men, which shares

reflected on the lessons he learned as a student,

the story of the Monuments Men and Women

Trustee, and eventually Board President at

and their mission to save the world’s great art

St. Mark’s.

from the Nazis.

Alumni Games In December, more than 130 alumni gathered

Marksmen athletes of all ages celebrated the

for the Annual Alumni Holiday Luncheon at

holidays by competing in the annual Alumni

Arlington Hall. Dallas alumni enjoyed fellowship

Games against the varsity basketball and soccer

and a holiday meal, while Canyon Kyle ’18 and

teams. Family, friends, and fellow classmates

Zach Gilstrap ’18 shared reflections from their

cheered from the stands. The Alumni Team

time at St. Mark’s.

walked away with a victory on the soccer field, and the Varsity Team on the basketball court.

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Alumni News | THE PRIDE

St. Mark’s School of Texas

Alumni News

Regional Events One of the highlights each fall is taking St. Mark’s on the road to visit alumni throughout the country. In September, Assistant Athletic

Young Alumni

Director Josh Friesen and Varsity Soccer

Young Alumni engagement continues to be a

Coach and mathematics teacher Cory Martin

priority for the Alumni Board this year, specifically

traveled with the Alumni Office to kick things

through events unique to graduates from the past

off in Austin, Houston, and College Station. In

15 years. During the Thanksgiving break, alumni

October, St. Mark’s made the annual East Coast

from the Classes of 2008 through 2017 gathered

Trip, hosting more than 100 alumni at events

at H.G. Supply to reconnect and celebrate the

in Boston, Princeton, New York, Philadelphia,

holidays at the annual Young Alumni Holiday Party.

and Washington, D.C. Alumni were excited to

The Classes of 1994 through 2007, along with their

reconnect with beloved faculty members Mary

Hockaday counterparts, hosted their gathering at

Ann Livengood, Lower School music teacher,

18th & Vine, owned by Scott Gottlich ’94.

and Meagan Frazier, humanities teacher and Middle School Community Service Coordinator.

“The Alumni Board has been very excited to see

St. Mark’s traveled to the West Coast at the end of

continued growth in our Young Alumni outreach,

February, hosting events in Los Angeles, the Bay

and that was on full display this past fall at our

Area, and Palo Alto. For more details, please visit

get together at H.G. Supply before Thanksgiving,”

smtexas.org/alumnievents.

noted Luke Kline ’07, the Young Alumni Chair.

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Alumni News

alumni programs

College Ambassador Program The College Ambassador Program continues to

The Power of the Marksman Network The Marksman Network is one of the greatest assets available to St. Mark’s alumni. In October, the Alumni Board hosted more than a dozen graduates who returned to campus to share their professional experiences with Upper School students.

Representing a range of fields, including business and finance, medicine and healthcare, law and government, and technology and entrepreneurship, alumni mentors participated in a group discussion and then answered questions from students.

In January, more than 70 college-age alumni returned to campus for the annual College-Age Marksmen Day. Similar to the Upper School event, the morning began with discussions by industry, followed by a holiday luncheon with faculty and fellow classmates.

strengthen the Marksman Network by creating intentional opportunities for college-age alumni to network with one another. Established by the Alumni Board’s Mentor and Networking Committee in 2015, the program helps recent St. Mark’s graduates connect with older Marksmen on their campuses as they acclimate to college life.

Josh Bandopadhay ’17, a freshman at Vanderbilt University, can attest to the power of the program, and says, “The College Ambassador Program has made my transition to college so much more seamless than I could have imagined. St. Mark’s alumni greeted all of us on our first week with such warmth and hospitality that we felt right at home here.” He also says, “Having that connection in the first days and first weeks made all the difference — that’s the power of a St. Mark’s relationship.”

This year, there are 29 College Ambassadors at 23 schools across the nation, reaching 68 percent of college-age Marksmen.

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

Alumni Weekend 2018 April 19–21

Spotlight master teaching chairs (left) Dr. Steve Balog, Cecil H. and Ida Green Master Teaching Chair in Science

for all of our students,” said David W. Dini, Eugene McDermott Headmaster. “All you have to do is look around campus and see the Master Teachers we have at work each and every day to realize that it is a defining part of what makes St. Mark’s a great place.”

This program is made possible thanks to generous donors who provide the financial gifts to establish Master Teaching Chairs. Each fully funded Chair helps compensate the holder while also freeing up existing budget dollars, leading to higher compensation for the entire faculty. While the

Teaching is a profession unlike any other; it is a calling.

Each educator has the potential to dramatically change

financial incentive is certainly important, Master Teaching Chairs are given the opportunity to focus on teaching, while taking on greater leadership

the lives of thousands of students, and their impact often

roles within their department, the School, and their

extends far beyond their subject area.

professional community.

Masters of Their Craft

“The program encourages Master Teachers to

For many teachers, progressing further in their

lead the way in their field, getting involved in the

field often requires leaving the classroom.

major educational community and at the college

Forty years ago, St. Mark’s recognized this dilemma

level, presenting at conferences, and helping new

and proposed a solution: the Master Teaching

teachers find their niche and their style,” said

Chair Program.

Dr. Steve Balog, Cecil H. and Ida Green Master Teaching Chair in Science. “Through the program,

“The Master Teaching Chair Program is one of the

St. Mark’s is saying to these incredible teachers,

most important things that the School has done to

‘We know you’re really good. Teach others, and we’ll

make our faculty the very best that it can possibly

help you get even better at what you do.’”

be and, thus, enrich and expand the experience

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

Spotlight

The Master Teaching Chair Program at St. Mark’s (clockwise from top left) David Brown, Victor F. White Master Teaching Chair in English

began with two of the School’s most influential supporters, Cecil and Ida Green. In 1977, they made a $200,000 gift to endow the School’s first Master Teaching Chair, which former Lower School

JT Sutcliffe, Suzanne and Patrick McGee Family Master Teaching Chair in Mathematics

faculty member Evelyn Boone was selected to fill. Today, the program has grown to 20 endowed positions, including 16 Master Teaching Chairs

Marsha McFarland, Cecil H. and Ida Green Master Teaching Chair

and four administrative positions. Over the past four decades, some of St. Mark’s most legendary educators held Master Teaching Chairs: Tom

John Mead, Eugene McDermott Master Teaching Chair in Science

Adams, Bill Kysor, Liz Trice, George Hague, Stephanie Barta, and many more. These teachers, past and present, are extraordinary in their own right, but the benefits of their endowed positions allow them to both remain in the classroom and be mentors and leaders among their peers.

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master teaching chairs

(clockwise from top left) David Genecov ’82 addresses the faculty and staff

contribute to the quality of teaching that occurs on our campus every day.”

David Genecov has remained an active member

Lisa and David Genecov ’82 and Sally Genecov

and leader of the St. Mark’s community. Since 2011, he has served on the Board of Trustees and currently chairs the Education Committee

Amy Pool teaches AP Calculus

of the Board. In 2014, he visited campus as a guest speaker for the inaugural St. Mark’s STEM Conference, and he also spoke in 2004 about his role in the separation of the conjoined Egyptian twins. David and Lisa are the parents of Mike ’07, Max ’11, Matt ’13, and Megan.

New Chairs Announced In the first half of the 2017–2018 school year,

“I am who I am today because of my parents and

St. Mark’s announced the establishment of two

the importance they placed on education in

new Master Teaching Chairs.

allowing me to come to St. Mark’s,” David Genecov told faculty members. “Master Teaching Chairs are

In September 2017, a family with multigenerational

an investment in the most important part of the

ties to St. Mark’s honored the School’s commitment

School. They make St. Mark’s different from any

to teachers. At a special faculty meeting, Eugene

other school. Our investment is in you, because it is

McDermott Headmaster David W. Dini announced

you, the faculty, who make the difference.”

the establishment of the Sally & Edward Genecov Master Teaching Chair. This new position is the

David Dini also announced the selection of Upper

result of a generous gift by Lisa and David Genecov

School math teacher Amy Pool as the first holder of

’82 and is named in honor of David’s parents.

the Sally & Edward Genecov Master Teaching Chair.

She currently teaches Precalculus, AP Calculus

“We’re here to celebrate an investment that the

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AB, and Independent Study in Advanced Math and

Genecov family has made in the School,” David

serves as the Senior Class Co-Sponsor and Upper

Dini said. “This gift is the result of their desire to

School Math Team Co-Sponsor.

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“A legendary English teacher who inspired generations of Marksmen, J.J. Connolly was well known for setting the highest standards,” said Eugene McDermott Headmaster David W. Dini.

“I feel truly honored because there are so many

teacher who inspired generations of Marksmen, he

exceptional teachers at St. Mark’s who are

was well known for setting the highest standards,”

master teachers in their own right,” Amy said.

said David Dini. “During the past 20 years, I have

“The Genecov family’s generosity and thoughtfulness embody two of the most important

heard countless stories from our alumni about the formative role Mr. Connolly played in their lives.”

things that make St. Mark’s such a wonderful place to be. Their extraordinary gift reminds us why we

After announcing the new Chair, David also

love being a part of this special community.”

shared that the first holder of the J.J. Connolly

(clockwise from left) J.J. Connolly outside his office in Davis Hall This year, St. Mark’s added two more positions to its Endowed Teaching board Nancy Marmion teaches AP Spanish

Master Teaching Chair will be longtime Two months later, at another special faculty

Language Department Chair and Spanish teacher

meeting, David Dini announced the establishment

Nancy Marmion.

of another new Chair. Thanks to the support of a dedicated group of alumni, the J.J. Connolly Master Teaching Chair was announced before

“Having taught with Mr. Connolly, I know the high regard in which he was held by so many of his

Mr. Connolly’s passing in 2014. The Chair reached

students,” said Nancy. “For those of us who teach

full funding in 2017 and will come online at the

and learn at St. Mark’s, this generous gift is yet

beginning of the 2018–2019 school year.

another reminder of what makes our community so special. I look forward to continuing to build on

The J.J. Connolly Master Teaching Chair is named

the School’s tradition of excellence and to honoring

in honor of an educator who devoted more than

Mr. Connolly’s legacy.”

four decades to St. Mark’s. “A legendary English

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honoring a living legend (from left to right) Jon Mosle ’79, Harlan and Kathy Crow, Arnie and Jan Holtberg, and David Dini

More than a decade ago, under the leadership of former headmaster Arnie Holtberg, St. Mark’s broke ground on a new building to replace the aging Davis Hall. Through a lead gift of $10 million from Kathy and Harlan Crow, the School opened Centennial Hall for the 2008–2009 school year.

The Crows’ only request was that Centennial Hall also bear Arnie’s name. Arnie agreed but requested the rededication take place after his retirement.

“Saluting one’s achievements, efforts, and vision through the naming of a building is done so with humility and a servant’s heart, to create a guidepost for the next generation,” said Kathy Crow. “This all creates an inheritance of a great example to be

On a chilly afternoon in January 2018, special guests and members of the Board of Trustees, including nine former Presidents of the Board, gathered outside of Centennial Hall to honor a man who helped shape the School’s modern era.

repeated again and again.”

Kathy’s sentiments were echoed by her husband Harlan: “This campus has a soul made up of the thousands of boys, faculty, and staff who have come through here, as well as the leadership. When

An hour earlier, the St. Mark’s Board of Trustees unanimously passed a

we think about this building, we want to thank

resolution to rededicate Centennial Hall and add “Arnold E. Holtberg

Arnie and Jan for giving their great souls to this

Academic Center” to the building in honor of the School’s longest-

great place.”

serving headmaster.

In addition to the name inscribed near the top of “We all know the incredible contributions that Arnie made to our School over

the building, the School unveiled a plaque near the

his 21-year tenure,” said Eugene McDermott Headmaster David W. Dini during

entrance, noting Centennial Hall’s rededication to

the outdoor ceremony. “The legacy Arnie has left here is incredible, so it’s only

honor Arnie’s enduring legacy.

fitting that his name should be atop this building.”

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

Spotlight

(clockwise from top left) From 2008, Arnie Holtberg, Kathy and Harlan Crow, and Board President George Bayoud ’73 at the dedication of The Path to Manhood statue

The official Board resolution noted that “Mr. Holtberg brought great creativity, vision, leadership, and commitment to St. Mark’s School of Texas during his many years of service, always setting the highest standards for himself and for the School.”

Arnie addresses Trustees, faculty, and guests at the rededication of Centennial Hall in 2018

In his comments, Arnie thanked and recognized his wife Jan. He found it fitting that the Jan L. Holtberg Reading Room, dedicated in April 2016, resides at the heart of the building.

Arnie speaks in front of the rededication plaque

“The only appropriate response to today is to say thank you,” Arnie said. “I hope that everyone who comes in contact with this splendid edifice considers for centuries to come: mission first, mission last, mission always. It’s all about the boys.”

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relationship, and the strength of the community.

The survey also revealed areas that would benefit from further discussion, such as the daily class

The ISAS Self Study

schedule and the continued innovation of programs, like the computer science curriculum.

More than 180 community members were assigned to serve on 25 subcommittees formed around topics including the Wilderness Program,

S

Counseling Services, and school governance. t. Mark’s recently launched Goals for St. Mark’s IV, the latest iteration

The committees were designed to represent a

of its strategic plan. As Goals IV was being finalized, another equally

cross section of St. Mark’s. For example, the School

important process began.

Community subcommittee includes 12 individuals who represent the faculty and staff, alumni,

In summer 2017, the School began work on a careful reflection and review of

parents, Trustees, parents of alumni, and students.

its programs, culture, and campus. In the following months, committees were

Throughout the 2017–2018 school year, these

formed and the community was asked to evaluate key areas of campus life.

committees will meet regularly and submit a report on their findings. In summer 2018, St. Mark’s will

As a private school, St. Mark’s receives its accreditation from the Independent

produce a final Self Study report and prepare for

School Association of the Southwest (ISAS). In 1952, St. Mark’s was among

the next stage of the reaccreditation process, when

the founders of The Association of Texas Preparatory Schools, a football league

St. Mark’s welcomes the Visiting Committee,

with other local private schools. In subsequent years, more schools joined

a team of administrators and teachers from other

and, with the addition of the Casady School from Oklahoma in 1955, ISAS

ISAS schools.

was established. In fact, the remnants of the original athletic league still exist in the Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC). As part of their rigorous

After reviewing St. Mark’s Self Study report, the

reaccreditation process, ISAS requires schools to undertake a Self Study

Visiting Committee will spend a week on campus,

every ten years.

immersing themselves in School life. They will draft their own report of observations, commendations,

“Strategic plans like Goals for St. Mark’s IV are managed and defined by the

and recommendations. The ISAS Board of

school community, while the Self Study is a process defined by ISAS,” said John

Directors will review all of these reports and make

Ashton, Associate Headmaster. “We are excited that the two processes took

a decision on St. Mark’s accreditation.

place in the sequence they did. Goals IV will guide our focus for the next five to ten years, while the Self Study provides a holistic report of St. Mark’s, allowing

“One of the most valuable aspects of the Self Study

us to identify how we can realize the strategic goals we’ve identified in

is that we commit time for colleagues to have

Goals IV.”

reflective, analytical, and aspirational discussions about teaching, learning, and our overall

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In October 2017, more than 3,000 community members received a

organization,” said John Ashton. “Together with the

comprehensive online survey. They provided anonymous feedback as to

priorities outlined in Goals for St. Mark’s IV, the

where the School is excelling, as well as where more focus should be placed.

Self Study will result in greater awareness on how

Analyzing the responses, several thematic highlights emerged, including

we can continue to strengthen our School and

the clarity of St. Mark’s mission and values, the outstanding student/teacher

our community.”

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“One of the most valuable aspects of the Self Study is that we commit time for colleagues to have reflective, analytical, and aspirational discussions about teaching, learning, and our overall organization.”

—John Ashton Associate Headmaster

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

Keeping Marksmen Safe and Healthy St. Mark’s commitment to transforming boys into men of character extends well beyond the academic setting.

As boys spend some of their most formative years on campus, the School takes a central role in helping them grow into responsible young adults. Learning proper grammar, an appreciation of art, and how to “solve for x” are all components of a St. Mark’s education. The School’s mission addresses the holistic needs of a young man’s growth in body, as well as in mind and spirit.

In its latest strategic plan, Goals for St. Mark’s IV, the School outlines this commitment to supporting the safety and health of its students. Now and in the coming years, St. Mark’s will strive to “regularly assess and update campus security,” “foster an environment that promotes the healthy development of boys,” and “provide daily lunches that are healthy, nutritious, and widely appealing.” As with many of the themes outlined in Goals IV, efforts are underway to address these priorities and make St. Mark’s the best school it can be.

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“The quality of food served to students has been a daily delight. Every meal seems to be created with care.”

—The ReMarker September 2017 Issue

A New Lunch (left to right) Food Services team members Edelmira Webb and Dora Turcios prepare fresh salad bar items Parent volunteers serve chicken fajitas Marksmen give their reviews of the new lunch

Throughout the School’s history, nutrition

floors installed in the Great Hall, lunchtime has

has been a critical component of the student

received a complete makeover.

experience. The Food Services staff has included past and present campus legends who have

Meals are prepared in reasonable quantities

dedicated more than 40 years to St. Mark’s,

using fresh ingredients and locally sourced foods

including Maxine Cantley, Lucy Sheppard,

to ensure consistency throughout multiple lunch

Thelma Levells, Steve “Hollywood” Walker, and

periods, drastically reducing waste. The daily

Howard Stewart. Every school day, the Food

menu also accommodates a range of special

Services staff works tirelessly with dedicated

dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan,

parent volunteers to shepherd more than a

gluten-free, dairy-free, and peanut-free.

thousand boys and teachers through the lunch

Lunch meat is prepared in-house and sliced

line, providing both nutrition and examples of

fresh, ready for assembly at the new sandwich bar.

servant leadership and care.

Diners now can choose between several flavors of infused water. Additionally, the Food Services

In the summer of 2017, the School took a fresh

department has begun offering an expanded

look at the St. Mark’s dining experience. Through

catering menu, providing meals for meetings and

thoughtful planning, the School partnered

receptions, as well as snacks for students

with SAGE Dining Services. With a complete

and teachers.

renovation of the servery and new hardwood

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

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As part of the transition, several SAGE team

Many of the familiar entrees now feature a

members joined the St. Mark’s family. For months

healthier adjustment, such as whole wheat pasta

leading up to the new cafeteria launch, they

and an expanded salad bar, while classics like

spent countless hours learning about the School

soft-serve ice cream remain.

community and integrating with the existing Food Services staff.

The program continues to evolve. The Food Services staff has listened to feedback and

“Our team is focusing on a culture of fresh,

is constantly refining its system to give the

flavorful food to offer to the boys,” said Marshall

community the best possible lunch experience.

Garrett, Director of Food Services at St. Mark’s.

This commitment was recently noted by

“We’ve paid close attention to the community feedback in this first year. Already, we adjusted

The ReMarker student newspaper, which printed: “We appreciate the willingness of the Food

the layout of the servery, added afternoon snacks,

Services team to listen to our concerns about the

and improved the catering offerings during the

length of the lunch lines and quantity of food

day and at the athletic concession stands. As we

given to students.” The boys have noticed the

continue to learn more, we hope to elevate food

quality of the food as well. “Although cooked for

service operations across the board.”

more than 1,000 people daily, every meal seems to be created with care.”

In particular, the boys were excited about the addition of panini grills, infused water, delicious soups, and a variety of new spices and fixings.

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Campus Security With more than a thousand faculty, staff, parents,

“We want a community where kids can walk from

and students on campus every day, St. Mark’s is a

class to class without parents having to worry

vibrant and bustling place. The parking lot begins

about their safety,” Dale said in an interview

to fill up just after dawn and rarely empties before

with The ReMarker. “Our main goal as a team

sunset. Athletics, fine arts, and other activities

is to observe, to be diligent, and to make sure

keep the campus alive on weekends and even over

everything is running smoothly around here.”

holiday breaks. With so much activity, security and the well-being of the community is always a

Over the past few years, St. Mark’s has made

top priority.

changes to increase daily security. Several entry points around campus are now locked during the

Security at St. Mark’s is a careful balance between

school day, funneling traffic through designated

safety and freedom. A dedicated team of seven

entrances. Parents, faculty, and staff are required

full-time security personnel work in shifts to keep

to wear ID badges while on campus. Other visitors

the campus covered 24/7, backed up by off-duty

must check in and have their driver’s license run

Dallas Police officers. Leading this team is Dale

through an identification system that cross-

Hackbarth, a 28-year veteran of the Dallas Police

references local and statewide criminal databases.

Department and Dallas SWAT. For nearly three

As Dale says, “If visitors have any negative history,

decades, he has been a welcoming presence

we’re alerted and escort them off campus.”

(opposite) St. Mark’s Security Guard Kent Witt pitches a game of kickball (above left) A campus visitor’s license is scanned into the Raptor system (above right) Dale Hackbarth briefs his team on assignments for a busy Friday night of athletic games

on campus, greeting visitors, managing traffic flow, and coordinating extra DPD officers during school events. In 2013, he retired from DPD to become St. Mark’s Head of Security.

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While St. Mark’s strives to keep the campus safe,

“EMS can take up to ten minutes before arrival. It’s

Dale is also working proactively to empower

pretty much a fact that civilians are always the

others to take charge in a crisis. In the fall of 2017,

first ones on a scene,” Dale said. “In emergency

Dale organized a first-responder training around

situations, severe bleeding is a common cause

the Department of Homeland Security’s Stop the

of death. A little training on how to apply direct

Bleed initiative. Several dozen health and security

pressure, pack a wound, or apply a tourniquet to

professionals from across DFW, including several

stop the bleeding might save a life.”

St. Mark’s faculty and staff members, gathered on campus for the training led by renowned trauma

St. Mark’s security personnel are a constant

surgeon Dr. Alex Eastman. Attendees learned

presence on campus. But the individuals keeping

proper techniques in applying direct pressure

the School safe are much more than silent

and using a tourniquet. In case of an emergency,

protectors operating behind the scenes. They are

these skills may mean the difference in helping

important members of the everyday community.

save lives. Since then, Dale has led trainings

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for parents and teachers, ensuring people are

Dale encourages his team to get involved, which

informed and prepared for any number

furthers their primary mission: protecting

of situations.

the boys. While patrolling Lower School,

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“I believe St. Mark’s should set the standard in school security, and we can’t be complacent.”

—Dale Hackbarth

security guard Kent Witt helps pitch games

emergency communications protocols are being

of kickball. Martin Hoffer volunteers his time

fine-tuned. The visitor management system is an

and mountaineering skills on Middle School

effective tool, and the School is looking to expand

campouts. And DPD Officer Beverly Ma, who is

its use to accomodate evening and weekend

fluent in Chinese, regularly talks to students in

events. And, the security team has begun hosting

foreign-language classes.

more trainings for parents and students, from Stop the Bleed to crisis and lockdown drills.

Goals for St. Mark’s IV challenges the School to never stop moving its mission forward. Programs

“I believe, as do many experts, that it still comes

and procedures are reviewed, examined, and

down to the people—the teachers, security

improved where needed. As Dale says, “I believe

officers, parents, and students—who can

St. Mark’s should set the standard in school

identify potential problems and help resolve

security, and we can’t be complacent.”

issues before there is danger to anyone on

(left to right) Dr. Alex Eastman leads a Stop the Bleed training At a parent training, Dale Hackbarth and Martin Hoffer demonstrate how to apply pressure to a leg wound Dallas Police Officer Beverly Ma speaks with students in class Martin Hoffer (far right) helps lead a group on the sixth-grade campout

campus,” Dale says. “Safety is the responsibility New technologies and trainings are already

of everyone on campus.”

being reviewed and considered. More video surveillance tools are being added, and the

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Concussion Prevention Just as St. Mark’s aims to balance freedom and security, the School also seeks to provide a fun and rewarding athletic program while keeping athletes safe and healthy. As in all things, Marksmen athletes give their all on the playing fields, tracks, courts, and in the pool.

Additionally, coaches train them to play smart and to protect themselves, their teammates, and their opponents.

In recent years, concussions and injuries have become a serious topic in youth sports. As with all issues related to health, St. Mark’s addresses these concerns with careful thought, expert input, and collaboration across all divisions. In the course of a day, a single Marksman athlete may interact with a dozen different teachers, coaches, trainers, and staff members. It is crucial that everyone be on the same page when it comes to health

of injury during their practices and games,” said

and wellness.

Mark Sullivan, St. Mark’s Athletic Director.

Concussion and injury prevention begins long

While the tactics of contact sports like football

before students take the field. During summer

and lacrosse have changed over the years with

workouts, Marksmen both strengthen and

safety in mind, injuries will always be a risk of

condition their bodies with the help of Coach

playing sports. At games, the coaches, trainers,

Kevin Dilworth. The rates of concussions and

and referees are constantly on the lookout for

injuries have dropped across all sports.

potential injuries.

(opposite) Head Athletic Trainer Matt Hjertstedt administers a King-Devick Concussion Screening Test, evaluating eye movement and attention (above) Coach Kevin Dilworth on the sidelines of a varsity football game

Leading into the fall season, St. Mark’s football practices are “restricted contact,” with full contact allowed only during the one preseason scrimmage. Additionally, the coaching staff teaches proper blocking and tackling methods

“Every hit is different, and it doesn’t have to be a big hit for someone to be concussed,” said Bart Epperson, Head Varsity Football Coach.

“Throughout the course of a practice or game, I’m

that limit injury and lower the risk of concussions.

always evaluating every hit because the player’s

Practice sessions are filmed so the coaches

safety is our number-one concern.”

can review and, if necessary, correct each player’s technique.

When a player takes a hit or shows behavioral symptoms, specially trained personnel, like

“The coaches spend a great deal of time teaching

Head Athletic Trainer Matt Hjertstedt, spring into

proper technique within their individual sport

action. If an athlete is evaluated to have a possible

in an effort not only to train more effective and

concussion, they are treated and put through

efficient athletes, but also to minimize the risk

rigorous testing before being certified for play.

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(below left to right) An eighth-grader leads his teammates in stretching exercises before soccer practice Coach Hjertstedt helps a concussed athlete recover using a dual-task balance exercise Coach Dilworth leads an athlete through strength and conditioning training Coach Leneau warms up his Middle School wrestling class

The importance of this protocol extends far

with a concussion must take a period of cognitive

beyond athletics. As Coach Hjertstedt often

rest. This means giving the brain a complete

shares, most concussions happen off the field,

break: schoolwork, video games, television, even

when boys are running around or playing with

reading are not allowed.

friends. At the beginning of each school year, all students in grades 7–12, not just athletes,

The Office of Counseling and Academic Support

are given a baseline ImPACT test (Immediate

steps in to help students manage any missed

Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive

schoolwork. Mrs. Pechersky works closely with

Test), which evaluates basic brain function and

Coach Hjertstedt and Nurse Julie to keep track

responsiveness. Having a student retake the test

of each boy who’s been concussed or injured

after a hit or accident and comparing the results

and facilitates meetings between the boys and

with his baseline can help determine if he has

their teachers to organize and prioritize their

indeed received a concussion.

makeup work.

Once a concussion is identified, Coach Hjertstedt

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“This ability to have the proper cognitive rest

works closely with School nurse Julie Doerge

has a direct impact on student growth and

and Coordinator of Academic Support Julie

performance. Healthy students are productive

Pechersky to ensure that the student is able to

and thriving students,” said Patrick Andrén, Head

rest and recover without falling behind in school.

of Upper School. “We address each case with as

According to protocol, any student diagnosed

much flexibility as possible. Our responses may

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range from simply cataloging assignments and

a special tourniquet to optimize workouts for

creating timetables for completion after healing

athletes recovering from an injury. In the spring,

to modifying the academic program of a student.”

Coach Hjertstedt will work with physicians and

St. Mark’s concussion and injury prevention

screenings that can help predict injuries and

protocol is effective, and the numbers prove that.

evaluate recovery from older injuries. This

Since the Athletic Department began focusing

information can be used to craft personalized

on strength training and technique changes,

workout programs, so that when athletes return to

athletic concussions have been cut in half.

the weight room, Coach Dilworth can work with

In the 2016–2017 school year, only one-third of

each one individually based on his needs.

physical therapists to host functional orthopedic

all student concussions were related to athletics.

“The safety and well-being of our athletes is at the The results have been impressive, but the athletic department is constantly looking for ways to

forefront of everything we do,” said Mark Sullivan.

“We do our best to provide as safe an environment

make Marksmen stronger and safer.

as possible in each of our sports, and we have

Coach Hjerstedt has begun speaking with

a faculty dedicated to staying on top of all the

Middle School athletes about concussions and

latest training and technology to ensure this goal

teaching them preventive exercises. This year,

is met.”

he also introduced personalized blood flow restriction rehabilitation training, which uses

While the process of drafting Goals for St. Mark’s IV concluded in 2017, the effects of its implementation are ongoing. Across campus, in all divisions and departments, efforts are being made to strengthen and enhance every aspect of the Marksman experience. Learn more about Goals IV and the School’s efforts at goals.smtexas.org.

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Features

In December 2017, the streel frame of the Winn Science Center nears completion (opposite page) Students, faculty, and staff eagerly await the raising of the final beam

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Features | THE PRIDE

St. Mark’s School of Texas

Features

THE FUTURE TAKES SHAPE Commuters driving down Preston Road are witnessing a new landmark rise out of the southwest side of campus, representing St. Mark’s devotion to extraordinary education.

T

he two-story Winn Science Center will be capped with a copper dome containing a new, state-of-the-art planetarium that will educate and inspire Marksmen and students from across the greater Dallas area

for decades to come. Supporting that dome are twelve 23-foot red steel beams,

nearly identical except for one.

On the morning of Thursday, January 11, the School community watched as that final beam, painted black and dotted with the signatures of seniors, faculty, and donors, was lifted onto the dome. This event marked the official completion of the Winn Science Center’s steel frame, as well as a historic moment for St. Mark’s.

Just before a crane lifted the 622-pound beam, the final of nearly 1,375 structural steel pieces, Eugene McDermott Headmaster David W. Dini led a special ceremony to mark the building’s Topping Off. He started by thanking the hundreds of individuals responsible for the planning and construction of the Winn Science Center.

St. Mark’s School of Texas

Winter 2018 | Features

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Features

Finally, David Dini told the students, “Boys, this

(above) The dome of the new Planetarium takes shape

building is for you.” The crane engine lifted the curved beam to the top of the structure, 50 feet off the ground. Crews secured the beam to the

(right) Chris Winn ’99 adds his signature to the final beam

rotunda, and the Winn Science Center steel frame stood complete.

Senior Class President Edward Ro ’18 addressed

While this stage of the project is now finished, there

the students on behalf of his classmates: “The Class

is plenty of work before the building’s scheduled

of 2018 hopes that by capping off the construction

completion in December 2018. In the coming

of the Winn Science Center, we leave behind a

months, the frame will be walled in, heating

small gift to the energetic and bright-eyed future

and cooling systems will be installed, and power

innovators and pioneers that I see in the front row.”

cables and water pipes will begin snaking through the building. A copper roof will soon cover the

Chris Winn ’99 stepped up to apply the final

planetarium dome, but the signatures will remain

signature to the beam, representing the Winn

on that final steel beam, capturing a moment in

family, whose vision and generosity was the

time when the entire St. Mark’s community looked

catalyst for the Science Center Project.

ahead to the future.

To see how the new Science Center Project is igniting curiosity on campus, visit science.smtexas.org

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Features | THE PRIDE

St. Mark’s School of Texas

Features

“The Class of 2018 hopes that by capping off the construction of the Winn Science Center, we leave behind a small gift to the energetic and bright-eyed future innovators and pioneers that I see in the front row.”

—EDWARD RO ’18

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Remarks 1964 Jan and LEY WAGGONER ’64 celebrated their 50th wedding

along with RICHARD WINN ’77, Troy Phillips (father of TODD

anniversary with classmates and friends in Dallas. Their wedding

PHILLIPS ’89), Sam Glast (father of JASON GLAST ’90), Tom

date was July 7, 1967.

Rosen (father of BRIAN ROSEN ’93), and Ira Levy (father of

MARK LEVY ’94).

Following his retirement, MUNENORI HANAWA ’64 was named Professor Emeritus at Daito Bunka University in Tokyo. He also

GLENN MAI ’83 retired from Federal service after 20 years as a

welcomed his first grandchild in August 2017.

Special Agent at the FBI. Glenn spent his first four years at the

1965

FBI in the New York Field Office and 16 years at the Washington, D.C. Field Office. Glenn’s last assignment was on the Northern

LEE SMITH ’65 has retired from his position as the Associate

Virginia Gang Task Force where he worked gang, narcotics,

Vice President of Legal Affairs at the University of Texas. He plans

robbery, and murder cases.

to work on a reduced basis for Apogee, while mixing in travel and photography.

1984 VICTOR VESCOVO ’84 is the 53rd person in the world to

1969

complete the “Adventurer’s Grand Slam,” which includes

ROBERT DECHERD ’69 is the chair of Parks for Downtown

climbing the Seven Summits plus skiing to both geographic

Dallas, a nonprofit organization seeking to establish new, major

poles. Over a time span of 18 months, Victor was able to ski

downtown parks. Robert worked with the City of Dallas in the

the last nautical degree (72 statute miles) to both the North

past to develop Belo Garden.

and South Poles.

1981

1985

KEN HERSH ’81 received the 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award

KURT VOELKER ’85 wrote and directed the feature film,

presented by the Oil & Gas Council of North America. Ken is

The Bachelors. The film had its world premiere at the 2017

President and Chief Executive Officer of the George W. Bush

Los Angeles Film Festival and had a limited nationwide release

Presidential Center. He also serves as Co-Founder and Advisory

in October. Classmates MARLOW MULDOON ’85 and

Partner of NGP Energy Capital Management where he assists

CLAY NICHOLS ’85 attended the premiere as well.

with the strategic direction of the firm. In addition, he serves as a Senior Advisor and the Deputy Chief Investment Officer for The Carlyle Group’s natural resources division.

1982 JEFF MILLER ’82 was elected to the position of President and CEO of the Halliburton Company. Jeff resides in Houston, Texas, with his wife Rhonda and two sons.

1983 | 35th Reunion

1989 JON LASSER ’89 read his new children’s book, Grow Happy, at Barnes and Noble in Dallas in April 2017. ALEX ANDRADE ’89, ASHISH MONGA ’89, and LOWELL KU ’89 also attended the reading to show their support.

1993 | 25th Reunion Lindsey and MICHAEL WISENBAKER ’93 are happy to announce the arrival of their twins on June 1, 2017. Their son,

BRAD BURDETTE ’83 joined the law firm of Glast, Phillips &

Hill Myers Wisenbaker, measured 19.75 inches and weighed

Murray to work alongside JOE ZOPOLSKY ’92, becoming the

6 lbs., 7 oz. Their daughter, Conner Marsh Wisenbaker, measured

seventh GPM attorney who is a St. Mark’s community member,

20 inches and weighed 6 lbs., 10 oz. The twins join older brother Whitt (2).

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

Class Notes

1995

1997

FRY WERNICK ’95 has been named Assistant Chief of the

TOMMY MERCER ’97 met up with former Eugene McDermott

International Corruption Unit within the U.S. Department

Headmaster Arnie Holtberg and Arnie’s wife Jan for a Major

of Justice’s Criminal Fraud Section. There, he will supervise

League Baseball game at AT&T Park in San Francisco.

investigations and prosecutions of corporations, executives, and foreign officials who violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act,

1998 | 20th Reunion

money laundering, and other criminal offenses. In June 2017,

Ashley and JEFF RAY ’98 welcomed their fourth daughter, Stella

Fry was selected to serve a temporary detail assignment as

Hazel Ray, on March 31, 2017. Stella joins older sisters, Emma,

Counsel to Senator Chuck E. Grassley (R-IA), Chairman of

Vera, and Josephine. The family resides in Coppell, Texas.

the Senate Judiciary Committee. Fry and his wife Lea live in Bethesda, Maryland, with their sons Jacob (3) and Jonathan (1).

Jan and Ley Waggoner ’64 Victor Vescovo ’84 Jon Lasser ’89 with Alex Andrade ’89, Ashish Monga ’89, and Lowell Ku ’89 Lindsey and Michael Wisenbaker ’93 with Conner Marsh Wisenbaker and Hill Myers Wisenbaker Tommy Mercer ’97 with Jan Holtberg Jeff Ray ’98 with his daughters

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Remarks

Jessalyn and CODY ROBERDEAU ’98 are happy to announce

FORREST LENSING ’99 is a neuroradiologist and partner at

the arrival of their son Winn Michael Roberdeau, born

Colorado Imaging Associates. He and his wife Jessica, an OB/

September 9, 2017. Winn weighed 7 lbs., 10.5 oz., and measured

GYN, and their daughters, Inez (5) and Pilar (18 months) reside

21.5 inches. The family of three resides in Denver, Colorado.

in Denver.

1999

MATT WALLACH ’99 is a Senior Vice President at Walker &

MATTHEW GRAY ’99 recently graduated from Dallas

Dunlop in Dallas. He originates loans for multifamily property

Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts in Christian

owners throughout the country. Matt recently completed the

Education. He has relocated to Tyler, Texas, with his wife and

largest transaction in his firm’s history, a $1.9 billion financing to

two daughters after accepting the position of Conference Center

facilitate Greystar’s acquisition of Monogram Residential Trust.

Manager at Allaso Ranch Camp & Retreat Center.

Winn Michael Roberdeau Ezekiel Mack Luke, Caleb, and Nathan Hampton Harbour Josie and Carl Sewell III ’02 with Virginia Louise Sewell Claire Summer Park Chris Irwin ’04 married Dianne Goode Kace Phillips ’04 married Claire Amberson Hunter Birch ’06 married DeAnn Bickerstaff

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

Remarks

2000 Victoria and KOREY MACK ’00 welcomed their son, Ezekiel

KACE PHILLIPS ’04 married Claire Amberson on October 29,

Mack, on July 2, 2017. Ezekiel joins siblings Elijah (4) and Nia

2016, at The Four Seasons in Las Colinas. The couple spent their

(2). The family resides in Dallas, where Korey is an Admissions

honeymoon in Thailand and Japan. Marksmen in the wedding

Officer for St. Mark’s and currently serves on the City Planning

party were best man BRANDON PHILLIPS ’01, and groomsmen

Commission for Dallas.

JOE LAUINGER ’04 and DREW MCDONALD ’04.

Many generations of Marksmen were present, including

KALEN THORNTON ’00 recently joined the Michael Jordan

NICK CASSAVECHIA ’04, ALEX ESHELBRENNER ’04, TREY

Brand as a Global Sr. Director. Kalen and his wife Kim live in

FREEMAN ’04, NICK MONIER ’04, MARCELLO ORTEGA ’04,

Portland with their two sons Kingston (8) and Karter (6).

ALEX PALMA ’04, RYAN SABLOTNY ’04, BLAKELY

2001 Stephanie and BEAU HARBOUR ’01 are proud to announce the birth of their son, Nathan Hampton Harbour, born July 27, 2017.

THORNTON ’04, STEPHEN UNTERBERG ’04, STEVEN FREEDMAN ’73, ROBERT TABAK ’73, PHILIP EINSOHN ’71, STEVE SANDERS ’70, and MARK ZILBERMANN ’70.

Nathan joins older brothers, Luke (5) and Caleb (3). The family

2005

resides in Old Greenwich, Connecticut.

MATTHEW FELDMAN ’05 completed his dissertation work at the Electric Propulsion and Plasma Dynamics Lab at

Former Intelligence Officer and Senior Obama Administration

Princeton University, which is part of Princeton’s Mechanical

Official, NED PRICE ’01 began teaching at the Elliott School of

and Aerospace Engineering Department. His thesis, titled

International Affairs at George Washington University this school

“The Direct Wave-Drive Thruster,” describes a novel electric

year. Ned works in the Security Policy Program where he teaches

space propulsion concept that uses electromagnetic waves to

a course titled “Intelligence in a Democracy.”

inductively accelerate a plasma. After Princeton, Matthew moved

2002

to Los Angeles to begin a job with The Aerospace Corporation as a radio-frequency plasma scientist.

Josie and CARL SEWELL III ’02 welcomed the arrival of their daughter Virginia Louise Sewell, born March 9, 2017. Virginia

ERIC LU ’05 is working with The Clay Center at Massachusetts

weighed 5 lbs., 9 oz. and measured 18 inches. The family of three

General Hospital, making films to break down stigma around

resides in Dallas, Texas.

mental health in kids and adolescents. In the healthcare world,

2003 | 15th Reunion

Eric has made films in partnership with Every Mother Counts, Partners in Health, and the Alzheimer’s Association. For his work

Naeun and CHASE PARK ’03 announced the birth of their

in addressing health inequalities, he was given USA Network’s

daughter Claire Summer Park born on July 7, 2017. Claire was

Characters Unite Award.

19 inches long and weighed 7 lbs., 3 oz. The family resides in Irving, Texas.

2006 HUNTER BIRCH ’06 married DeAnn Bickerstaff on May 6, 2017,

2004

at Piazza on the Green in McKinney, Texas. St. Mark’s alumni in

DAVID CLARY ’04 was promoted to Director of Internet Sales at

the wedding party included Best Man DYLAN BIRCH ’09,

Lowe’s Home Improvement. David resides in Murphy, Texas.

CASE MARTIN ’06, GRAHAM CANNADY ’06, MATT EBERHART ’06, JACK TOSI ’06, and KEVIN PAULSON ’06.

CHRIS IRWIN ’04 married Dianne Goode on April 1, 2017,

Marksmen in attendance were ALEX KORNGUT ’06,

in downtown Dallas. Dianne is a 2005 graduate of Hockaday.

LEE BUDNER ’06, and faculty member, JOSH FRIESEN.

Marksmen in attendance were DAVID CLARY ’04,

Hunter and DeAnn reside in Plano where DeAnn works in

JORDAN WALLACE-WOLF ’04, MARK HARIZ ’04,

surgery at MCP-Plano, and Hunter works for Stryker Orthopedics

BOBBY KAUFMAN ’04, and SCOTT BERRY ’04. The couple

in the Trauma Division.

resides in Dallas.

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Remarks

2007 HARRISON TASSOPOULOS ’07 joined the Office of

MICHAEL GILLILAND ’13 was on a team of engineering

Development and Alumni Relations at St. Mark’s as Assistant

students from the Vanderbilt Aerospace Design Laboratory

Director of the St. Mark’s Fund in August 2017. Harrison works

who earned second place in the 2017 NASA-Orbital ATK Rocket

with alumni, parents, and friends to raise funds to continue to

Challenge. Michael has joined SpaceX as a test engineer in

make the Marksman experience an exceptional one.

McGregor, Texas.

2008 | 10th Reunion

CAMERON HILLIER ’13 joined the faculty of Christ School in

IKE CREWS ’08 started this school year as the Cooney Fellow at

Asheville, North Carolina, as an English teacher for the 2017–

The Kinkaid School in Houston. Ike teaches upper school history

2018 school year. In addition to his teaching role, Cameron is

and government and coaches varsity football and wrestling.

coaching tennis, working with the school’s outdoor program, and living on campus as a dorm supervisor.

SCOTT HAGE ’08 and his wife Taylor were married on March 5, 2016, in Carlsbad, California. The happy couple resides

STEPHEN RAMBIN ’13 moved to San Francisco to work as an

in Dallas.

Investment Banking Analyst for Wells Fargo Securities in the Public Finance group.

GARRETT JOHANNSEN ’08 married Ellen Storm on May 21, 2016, at Spicewood Vineyard near Austin, Texas.

WILL MOOR ’13 was commissioned in the United States Marine

REID JOHANNSEN ’17 was the best man, and EMMANUEL

Corps as a 2nd Lieutenant. Will is stationed at The Basic School

ACHO ’08 performed a reading during the ceremony. Other

at Camp Barrett in Quantico, Virginia.

Marksmen in attendance included JAMES BLAIR ’08, NATHAN IP ’08, and PAUL OCKELMANN ’08. After attending

2016

the Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry, Garrett is

While taking courses at the London School of Economics and

now a Dental Resident at The University of New Mexico Health

Political Science, MAHIR KARIM ’16 and CAMERON

Sciences Center.

CLARK ’16 met up with DAVIS MARSH ’16 who was studying

2009 CHARLES GOODMAN ’09 is a Naval Aviator deployed on

abroad at the University of Edinburgh. The Marksmen traveled to Arthur’s Peak in Edinburgh together.

the USS Carl Vinson as a member of Helicopter Sea Combat

Faculty

Squadron 4. Lieutenant Junior Grade Charles Goodman is

RANDALL HOLDRIDGE was awarded the 2017 Alumnus of

pictured in Busan, South Korea, during a port visit.

the Year Award by the University of Arizona Department of English. Randall was a faculty member in the St. Mark’s English

DYLAN BIRCH ’09 was promoted to Captain in the U.S. Army

Department from 1985–1991.

on May 1, 2017, after returning from Operation Inherent Resolve (Mosul). He became Commander of the Charlie Company, 1st

LEXIE PARKER married Nick Zitaglio on July 22, 2017, at Park

Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment at Fort Benning, Georgia, on

Cities Presbyterian Church in Dallas. Nick and Lexie live in

May 12, 2017.

Richardson with their dog Ellie. Lexie is the Assistant Director

2013 | 5th Reunion

of Alumni Relations, and Nick works as an Account Executive at The Marketing Arm.

DANNY KOUDELKA ’13, a senior midfielder for the University of Texas Lacrosse Club, was named 1st team All-Conference for his efforts in 2017.

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St. Mark’s School of Texas

Remarks

St. Mark’s Athletic Trainer MATT HJERTSTEDT and his wife

Former faculty member GENE BATISTE moved to Houston to

Anna celebrated the birth of their daughter, Flora Jane Hjertstedt,

join the senior administrative team at St. John’s School as the

on April 17, 2017. Flora weighed 9lbs., 10 oz. and joins older

Director of Community and Inclusion.

brother Westin.

Faculty member CLARA ANN NORMAN’s daughter and Former St. Mark’s chaplain, BRIAN FIDLER, will retire at the

son-in-law welcomed their sixth baby. Andrew “Fulton” Paul

end of the school year from The Bishop’s School in La Jolla,

was born on July 16, 2017, in Virginia. Clara Ann teaches in the

California. Brian has served as a school chaplain for 35 years,

mathematics department at St. Mark’s.

seven of which were at St. Mark’s.

Scott Hage ’08 and his wife Taylor Garrett Johannsen ’08 married Ellen Storm Charles Goodman ’09 Dylan Birch ’09 Mahir Karim ’16, Cameron Clark ’16, and Davis Marsh ’16 Lexie Parker married Nick Zitaglio Flora Jane Hjertstedt

St. Mark’s School of Texas

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Remarks

in memoriam GEORGE A. BUTLER, April 13, 2017, father of

W. Rowland Butler ’85.

TING L. CHU, April 12, 2017, father of Emeritus Trustee

Daniel T. Chu ’81 and Dennis T. Chu ’72, grandfather of Zachary D. Chu ’11.

CARR P. COLLINS IV, August 29, 2017, son of Carr “Kit”

Collins III ’62 (deceased) and nephew of Richard H. Collins ’65.

CHRISTY CALVERT COLLINS, September 10, 2017, sister of

Richard H. Collins ’65 and Carr P. Collins III ’62 (deceased).

CAROLYN B. FOXWORTH, June 23, 2017, wife of Walter L.

Foxworth II ’53, mother of Jack L. Foxworth II ’76, grandmother of Walter L. Foxworth III ’06, and sister-in-law of Warren H. Foxworth ’66.

RAY W. GILBERT, July 24, 2017, husband of former faculty

Alumni: GAYLE D. FOGELSON ’52, May 23, 2017.

KEITH P. HOLDER ’74, May 17, 2017.

LEE T. JOHNSON III ’59, July 6, 2017.

member Polly S. Gilbert, father of Stephen B. Gilbert ’87, brother-in-law of Paul W. Harris ’65 and John W. Stephenson ’65.

DAVID GORDON, April 30, 2017, father of Jason A. Gordon ’90.

NORMA R. GREMM, June 11, 2017, mother of staff member

Susan G. Alterman.

MURIEL L. GUILER, July 11, 2017, grandmother of faculty

Community Members

member Greg S. Guiler and great-grandmother of

RICHARD A. ABBONDANZIO, June 26, 2017, former faculty

Cooper J. Guiler ’26.

member, and father of David R. Abbondanzio ’92 and Matthew L. Abbondanzio ’92.

GAIL E. ALPERT, July 17, 2017, mother of Robert H. Alpert ’83

and Christopher J. Alpert ’84.

BURRELL D. ATKINS, May 28, 2017, father of Kyle D. Atkins ’81

and Seth A. Atkins ’92.

MARC W. BARTA, June 7, 2017, husband of former faculty

member Stephanie B. Barta, and father of Alan B. Barta ’99 and Eric W. Barta ’99.

BERTHA R. BROWNING, May 27, 2017, mother of faculty member

JO JEAN HELMS, September 26, 2017, mother-in-law of

William E. Jenkins ’69.

THELMA LEVELLS, September 23, 2017, former staff member.

MURPHY F. MATERRE, Sr., April 10, 2017, father of faculty

member Debra F. Materre.

H. NEILL MCFARLAND, July 14, 2017, father of faculty member

Marsha McFarland.

CHARLES D. PACE, June 23, 2017, grandfather of Jack T. Gordy ’23

and Charles A. Gordy ’25.

Robert M. “Doc” Browning.

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Remarks

KATHRYN A. PRIDDY, June 2, 2017, mother of

Hervey A. Priddy ’66, grandmother of David G. Bentley ’14, and great grandmother of Jackson P. Bell ’24, James B. Francis ’24, and Robert P. Francis ’29.

ARLENE P. ROSS, July 8, 2017, mother-in-law of staff member

Patti B. Winston.

CHARLES M. ROSS, September 13, 2017, father of Jon S. Ross ’82

and Kevin M. Ross ’86.

RICHARD D. RUNYAN, June 13, 2017, father of

Ryan D. Runyan ’94.

JAMES T. A. VANDERSLICE, September 26, 2017, father of

Trustee Mary Beth Duffy and grandfather of Cole P. Duffy ’19 and Conor J. Duffy ’22.

MARY JO WALKER, May 20, 2017, wife of former faculty member

Malcolm Walker.

ROBERT A. WILSON, May 9, 2017, Emeritus Trustee and

father of Andrew C. Wilson ’83, Owen C. Wilson ’87, and Luke C. Wilson ’90.

WILLIAM J. WISE, January 14, 2017, father of Robert M. Wise ’78.

CLEO WOFFORD, September 25, 2017, brother of staff member

Howard Stewart.

NANDALAL YEPURI, April 14, 2017, grandfather of

Neil S. Yepuri ’25 and Evan A. Yepuri ’28.

St. Mark’s School of Texas

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Endnotes ONLINE GIVING The St. Mark’s Fund is the School’s most important, ongoing fundraising priority, providing more than 10 percent of its annual operating budget. You may give online through our secure server at www.smtexas.org/smfund. Every gift makes a difference.

THE

PRIDE St. Mark’s School of Texas Alumni Magazine

EDITOR

ARCHIVES

Katy B. Rubarth

From the Terrill School, all the way to St. Mark’s School of Texas, ours is

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

a school with a long and rich history. If you have something that you would like to donate to St. Mark’s to be preserved in our archives, please contact the Office of Development & Alumni Relations at 214.346.8800.

David Carden

COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Alex Hughes

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT Jim Bob Womack ’98

SUBMISSIONS

DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Alex Eshelbrenner ’04

Do you have a great story you’d like to share with your fellow alumni?

Have you made any changes in your life such as a new job, new degree, marriage, children, or other announcement? Please send your stories, along with any photos, to the Office of Development & Alumni Relations so we can include them in our next issue. Submissions may be made in any of three ways: • www.smtexas.org Use our online form to send in your “Remarks.”

• Email | eshelbrennera@smtexas.org Send your information and high-resolution photos to Alex Eshelbrenner ’04 at eshelbrennera@smtexas.org.

• U.S. Mail Send to St. Mark’s School of Texas, Attn. Alex Eshelbrenner, 10600 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75230-4047 Submissions received after October 1, 2017, will appear in the next issue of The Pride.

THE PRIDE is published twice annually by St. Mark’s School of Texas, Office of Development & Alumni Relations, 10600 Preston Road, Dallas, Texas 75230-4047, and is distributed to alumni, parents, and friends of the School.

In producing this magazine, every effort has been made to ensure that it is accurate. Please report any errors, or receipt of multiple copies, to the Office of Development & Alumni Relations, and accept our sincerest apologies.

St. Mark’s School of Texas does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. ©2018 St. Mark’s School of Texas An Office of Development & Alumni Relations Publication

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End Notes | THE PRIDE

St. Mark’s School of Texas

Leave a Lasting Mark In making your planned gift to St. Mark’s, you can ensure excellence for future generations of Marksmen while also enjoying amplified gift and tax benefits.

Giving Through Long-Term Appreciated Securities A Class of 1994 graduate, Mason King maintains a strong connection to St. Mark’s, currently serving on the Alumni Board. In supporting the School, Mason strives to help provide the same or better opportunities to successive generations of Marksmen. Through careful planning, Mason has continued to support the growth of St. Mark’s by gifting long-term appreciated securities. The School receives the benefit of fair market value, and Mason is able to recognize this full value as a charitable donation without triggering any tax liability on capital gains.

“I acknowledge the many opportunities afforded to me in life as a graduate of St. Mark’s, and commit myself to promoting the mission of our alma mater to develop future leaders for a competitive and changing world.”

— Mason King ’94

To learn more or join the Terrill Society, please visit the Planned Giving webpage at www.smtexas.org/plannedgiving, or contact Scott Jolly in the Office of Development & Alumni Relations at 214.346.8132 or jollys@smtexas.org.

10600 Preston Road Dallas, Texas 75230-4047 214.346.8000 • www.smtexas.org

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ISAS Self-Study | Goals for St. Mark’s IV | The Future Takes Shape

THE PRIDE | Winter 2018 | Vol. 23, No. 1

The Class of 2018 Senior Prank brought the Winter Olympics to St. Mark’s, complete with hot chocolate, s’mores, and a mound of real snow.