T H E
M A G A Z I N E
O F
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S T E P H E N’ S
E P I S C O P A L
S C H O O L
Winter 2021
Peter Lee Ventures into Outer Space
SNAPSHOT Caroline Cloyd as Richard III in the Middle School Shakespeare Safari
CONTENTS WINTER 2021
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2 Head Lines 3 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
in Action
10 Celebrating the Class of 2020 16 Spartan Life 24 Alumni News
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head of school Christopher L. Gunnin
chief marketing and communications officer David E. Perryman, Ph.D.
managing editor Anne Marie Becka
class notes editor Michelle Geo Olmstead
graphic design Ellen Buckmaster, Bucko Design
contributors
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Yvonne Adams, Claudio Fox Photography, Cynthia Bartek, Chris Caselli ’82, Melody Harman, Michelle Geo Olmstead, David E. Perryman, Chelsea Richards, Jeremy Sweetlamb Spartan magazine is published twice a year for constituents of St. Stephen’s Episcopal School. Copyright © 2021 St. Stephen’s Episcopal School
subscription information and address changes Emily Crouch-Ponder, ecrouch-ponder@sstx.org or 512.327.1213 x158
P H OTOS COVER: Peter Lee building a visual map of the Milky Way via radio frequencies TOC: Members of the Class of 2020 before the pandemic altered life as we knew it; St. Stephen’s Receptionist and Upper School Attendance Coordinator Alecia Chapman with several of our campus safety enhancements; Spartan A.J. Francois makes his professional soccer debut
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H E AD LIN ES
Winter 2021
THE SPARTAN SPIRIT IN UNCERTAIN TIMES During the December holidays, I took time to reflect on the last few months in the life of our school. Sifting through so many memories of what was a
I also would like to thank our parents for being patient and supportive through all the turbulence. I am particularly grateful to our Parents’ Association and parent volunteers who have hosted
remarkable fall, I almost do not know where to begin.
community-building experiences for students while recognizing
This school year has certainly looked and felt very different. The
new ways to offer our parents meaningful ways to engage virtually
sight of masked community members interacting in fewer numbers and six feet apart; the challenge of teaching and learning with some students in classroom and others on Zoom calls from around the world; the stress of coping with a global pandemic; a turbulent election and continuing racial strife—all these factors required us to look deep within ourselves, embrace our common values and reaffirm who we are as a community. Through all the health and safety protocols, new academic schedules and modified daily routines, our students responded in true Spartan form. I am so proud of their flexibility, resilience and willingness to make the best of the situation, regardless of the circumstances. Through it all, they have excelled in remote, hybrid and in-person learning environments; on athletic fields and courts; and even on makeshift theatrical stages spread across campus. They are our raison d’être and a wellspring of inspiration. Our faculty and staff, meanwhile, have reimagined ways to do their jobs while engaging students in myriad opportunities to grow in mind, body and spirit. This required them to work diligently throughout the summer preparing for a variety of work scenarios and then to continuously adjust their plans throughout the fall and winter as we navigated an evolving pandemic and ongoing
the extraordinary efforts of our teachers and staff. They also found in the life of our school. Finally, I wish to thank our Spartan alumni in the United States and around the world for continuing to engage with their classmates and the school in meaningful ways. They have shown that community lives in the heart and mind, not in a location. This issue of Spartan magazine spotlights many of our accomplishments throughout the past year, as we strived— individually and collectively—to achieve excellence and sustain a sense of community for everyone. It also showcases the significant strides we have made in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion—one of our most important Spark 2023 initiatives central to fulfilling our mission. Finally, we celebrate our Class of 2020, whose members persisted with true Spartan tenacity through the end of the 2019–20 school year amid unprecedented circumstances. I hope you draw joy and inspiration from the many stories in this issue, and I wish you and your loved ones peace, happiness and good health throughout the new year. With love and prayers,
changes to national, state and local guidelines and protocols. And, of course, our board of trustees and medical advisory committee members went above and beyond to help guide our decisionmaking and support our efforts.
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Chris Gunnin, Head of School
DI V E RSIT Y, EQUIT Y AND INC LUS IO N
Spartan Magazine
WALKING THE TALK: DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION IN ACTION Throughout the 2019–20 school year, St. Stephen’s embarked on a comprehensive audit of our diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies and practices. This important study was led by the diversity audit steering committee and conducted in collaboration with The Glasgow Group, a firm that provides strategic consulting and coaching services to help schools improve their cultural competency and enhance their DEI practices. The audit kicked off with surveys sent to all community members in late 2019 and continued throughout the spring with focus group meetings with various constituencies. Audit activities were completed and findings presented to the head of school and members of the steering committee at the end of the academic year. Members of the smaller DEI Team, led by Yvonne Adams, director of equity and inclusion, worked diligently throughout the summer to review audit results and identify critical areas where the school could advance and enhance its DEI policies, programs and activities. These efforts are all in support of the school’s larger strategic goals, stemming from the Spark 2023 Strategic Plan. The following pages include a visual overview of the audit process and results, as well as our next steps, moving forward. Additional information is available on the school’s dedicated DEI webpage: www.sstx.org/about/diversity.
◗
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DI V E RSIT Y, EQUIT Y AND INC LUS IO N
Winter 2021
LAYING THE GROUNDWORK Starting from a Place of Understanding ◗
Diversity: Presence of differences within a setting/ways people differ, such as race, culture, national origin,
learning style, age, socioeconomic status, gender identity, sexual orientation and religious beliefs
◗ Equity: Fair treatment, equal access, opportunity for advancement; the elimination of barriers ◗
Inclusion: Environment where everyone can be fully who they are while feeling welcomed, respected
and valued
Why Conduct a DEI Audit?
1. We wanted to measure how well our community is upholding and advancing our founders’ bold, progressive vision for a diverse and equitable school. Put more simply: Are we living the core values and enduring principles that have distinguished our school from its founding?
2. The audit also served as a necessary first step in realizing our dream of establishing the • Bishop Hines Center for Social Justice, an important strategic initiative laid out in the Spark 2023 Strategic Plan.
•
• 3. Finally, audit results will be used by the board of trustees and head of school to hold St. Stephen’s accountable for living into our school mission by periodically monitoring and assessing school culture, in accordance with the • National Association of Independent Schools’ “Principles of Good Practice for Equity and Justice.”
• • •
St. Stephen’s Commitment to Diversity In accordance with our founding mission, students and employees at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School look within and reach beyond themselves to accept everyone’s unique stories, histories and voices. Our community is comprised of people with varying cultural, economic, linguistic, political, racial and religious backgrounds, gender identities, learning styles and sexual orientations. Our school encourages sensitivity to cultural differences in an open, safe, equitable environment. We help each student learn what it means to be fully human in all of our complexity, difference and unity.
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COMMUNITY SURVEYS AND FOCUS GROUPS
Focus Groups: Student Participants
Survey Demographics and Participation MS Students 98% of 207 invited US Students 83% of 487 invited Boarding Students 82% of 171 invited International Students 85% of 106 invited Parents 15% of 1,115 invited Alumni 3% of 3,404 invited Trustees 64% of 28 invited Employees 65% of 207 invited (Teachers 57%, Non-Teaching Staff 31%, Administrators 13%)
• • • • • • • • • • • •
International Boarding Students Students of Color, 9th and 10th Grades Students of Color, 11th and 12th Grades Students of Religious Diversity Middle School Students of Color WOKE Student Affinity Group Upper School LGBTQ+ Students Invited 9th and 10th Grade Students Invited 11th and 12th Grade Students Boarding Students Invited Middle School Students Independent Thinker Student Group
Focus Groups: Adult Participants • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Invited Parents Self-Registered Parents Parents’ Association Leadership Self-Registered Boarding Parents Parents of Students of Color Senior Administrators Admission Team LGBTQ+ Faculty Upper School Faculty Middle School Faculty Board of Trustees Residential Staff Middle School Administrators College Counseling Team Upper School Administrators Non-Teaching Staff
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PHILOSOPHY
◗
POLICIES AND PRACTICES
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CURRICULUM AND PEDAGOGY
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HANDLING OF DISSENSION
◗
ACCOUNTABILITY AND FUTURE PLANNING
Resistent
3.64% 1.32%
Oblivious
1.32% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.58% 0.00% 1.11%
Knee-Jerk
12.75% 5.26%
Image Conscious Culturally Competent
14.40% 10.53% 14.63% 0.00% 8.77% 0.00% 15.56%
Equitable/ Inclusive
35.93% 38.16% 41.46% 70.59% 40.00% 40.00% 43.33%
0.00% 0.00% 0.58% 0.00% 2.22%
2.44% 0.00% 4.09% 6.67% 8.89%
31.95% 44.74% 41.46% 29.41% 40.35% 53.33% 28.89%
ASSESSMENT
RA
LL
Levels of Inclusivity in Schools
Equitable/Inclusive
Diversity is critical to the mission, curriculum
VE
includes a range of perspectives, students invited to actively engage with others; evolving Diversity is a strategic priority, curriculum
DO
Culturally Competent
affirms multiple perspectives and learning styles, includes
DE
multiple voices at the table Image Conscious
Diversity is a public relations tool, does not
only when pressed
Oblivious
Does not acknowledge need to diversify,
curriculum does not include non-normative identities and perspectives, dissent considered reactionary
Actively resists efforts to diversify, Resistant discriminates against non-normative identities, curriculum affirms negative stereotypes/biases
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WE L
Considers diversity an issue to be managed,
curriculum includes non-normative identities and perspectives
WHERE
Knee-Jerk/Reactive
AN
want diversity to challenge its foundational practices, curriculum tokenizes non-normative identities
Alumni
areas of school life:
Perceived Level of Inclusivity
Board
intrinsic biases and inequitable systems in the following five key
Parents
environments, as well as member experiences, to help eliminate
Non-Teaching Staff
Our objectives were to assess St. Stephen’s learning and living
Admin
DETAILED RESULTS Teaching Staff
OBJECTIVES
Winter 2021
Students
DI V E RSIT Y, EQUIT Y AND INC LUS IO N
POLICIES AND PRACTICES (Between Oblivious and Knee-Jerk/Reactive)
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PHILOSOPHY ACCOUNTABILITY AND FUTURE PLANNING HANDLING OF DISSENSION
(Between Culturally Competent and Equitable/Inclusive)
(Image Conscious)
CURRICULUM AND PEDAGOGY (Knee-Jerk/Reactive)
FINDINGS
Focus Group Data Validated and Enhanced Survey Findings ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗
School’s commitment to DEI was affirmed by constituencies 75% of participants perceive school to be between Culturally Competent and Equitable/Inclusive Residential Life and International Program are seen as enhancing the school experience Community values diversity; members feel responsible for supporting diversity Students are least positive about inclusivity; rated the school Image Conscious Administrators and the board believe school is much further along than others
WHAT'S NEXT
Initial Recommendations Stemming from Audit ◗
Build a shared understanding of the impact socioeconomic status has on the school experience for students and families;
develop policies and practices to address inequities in daily campus life by this identifier
◗
Make DEI central to learning, working and living at St. Stephen’s
• Create DEI education and training programs for all constituencies
• Ensure integrating DEI into the curriculum is a central tenet of curriculum planning
• Ensure DEI training is central to employees’ professional development
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Enhance Admission and HR recruitment and retention efforts around DEI
• Review and realign Admission and HR practices that are not in sync with school mission and values
• Ensure applicant pools are not purposely limited or used to meet a minimum
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Invest in an external marketing campaign and internal communications specific to DEI education and outreach
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Work to make diversity of thought and political affiliation as valued as other identifiers on campus
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Create a more fully welcoming and safe environment, as well as a greater shared sense of belonging
◗
Design and provide opportunities for non-teaching and teaching staff to build fellowship and connections to ensure
greater mutual respect and understanding
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Examine the current curriculum to ensure whiteness (the white experience) is not central and ensure a broader cultural
competency is provided in classroom materials sstx.org
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DI V E RSIT Y, EQUIT Y AND INC LUS IO N
Winter 2021
Good Trouble
In early September, St. Stephen’s Director of Equity and Inclusion Yvonne Adams spoke to school members in morning Chapel about many of the issues we have faced during this remarkable time in our shared history. Our campus community was so moved by her address that we wanted to share excerpts with our readers. I want to begin today with a question: When you hear the phrase “good trouble,” what does it mean to you? I want you to think about that as we share our time together today. So like many of you, I’ve been struggling to deal with the inundation of information throughout the last few months. From COVID-19, racial protests, voting and hurricane season to sports teams refusing to entertain the world while men die in the streets, and marginalized folks being pushed further and further to the margins. It feels endless; it feels defeating, sometimes daunting. I'll be honest. I am staggering under the weight of the American history that we are living right now—the empowerment of white supremacy, the expressed public devaluation of black and brown people in this country, the isolation of pandemic quarantine…. The attempted lynching of Jacob Blake ended a summer that began with the lynching of George Floyd. Combined with COVID, this has cast a pall across my thoughts that I cannot seem to crawl out from under. I have to wonder: What chaos are we leaving for our children to rectify if we do not, in this moment, look in the mirror and acknowledge both our shared humanity and the necessity to live on this planet together? While I’ve pressed on to create some modicum of routine and purpose for this season we are in, it has been especially challenging because I have not been in community with my St. Stephen’s family. As I have begun to see many of you on the screen or physically distant at various places around Austin, I am shifting into a more hopeful view. This is an amazing time to be alive, an inspiring time. I spoke at a protest in early May about the two pandemics we are dealing with and how we are clearly living in a time when we are discussing the risk of life in order to have the joy of life. I always said when I was younger, when I became aware of American history, that there was a part of me that wished I had lived through the civil rights movement, because I know that I would have been out there marching and preaching in the streets. Emmett Till was my George Floyd. He was my Rayshard Brooks, Sandra Bland and Breonna Taylor. He was 14 when he was killed, and I was only 15 when I learned about his murder. I will never ever forget the moment when it became so clear that he could easily have been me. A particularly low moment for me this past summer was during a time of mourning for the great John Lewis, one of the greatest civil rights activists of all time. As most of us know, he died in July after a long battle with cancer. A steadfast civil rights activist, a political figure with a conscience, a warrior for justice … a great man. Rep. John Lewis devoted his life to racial justice and equality. He was an orator unlike any other, and his words galvanized action among multiple generations. Though he has died, his words give me a new perspective.
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“If we are to survive as one unified nation, we must discover what so readily takes root in our hearts that could rob Mother Emanuel Church in South Carolina of her brightest and best, shoot unwitting concertgoers in Las Vegas, and choke to death the hopes and dreams of a gifted violinist like Elijah McClain,” Lewis continued. “Like so many young people today, I was searching for a way out, or some might say a way in, and then I heard the voice of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on an old radio,” he wrote. “He was talking about the philosophy and discipline of nonviolence. He said we are all complicit when we tolerate injustice. He said it is not enough to say it will get better by and by. He said each of us has a moral obligation to stand up, speak up and speak out. When you see something that is not right, you must say something. You must do something.” These words helped me to reframe my thinking. John Lewis was listening to the call of his purpose and answering the call of injustice for continued work on civil rights until his last breath. I get emotional just knowing that this man—on the brink of death—got up, got dressed, grabbed his cane, got in his car and, like he did decades ago, marched in the street to attest to his and our calling to be witnesses of love, to be bridge-builders, to be peacekeepers, to be radical examples of love and justice. I believe that Lewis was calling on us to be revolutionary at this moment. In the scripture reading from today, we learned of a time when Jesus was not pleased with the way the temple was being treated, so he went in and ran folks out, turned over the tables of the money changers. Jesus was in there, turning tables over. I feel like in this moment that we are being called to do the same. We so often refer to our social justice work in supporting the “dignity of every human being” and the building of the beloved community. I agree with those two sentiments wholeheartedly, and I believe that we must also be coagitators. The work of racial justice does not happen without a posture of action, without moving from a position of apathy, of stagnant allyship, to that of coagitation. Like Jesus did, we need to turn over the system. We need to revolt and evolve. Revolution is the spirit of this moment. It is what people are attempting to do by taking to the streets and calling out the system writ large. Many are focusing on anti-racism, and yes, we need to do that, certainly. But to be “anti” something implies that the structure stays and that you will work against. To be revolutionary implies that I’m not here for the structure, I’m here for the restructuring. We need to move beyond anti-racism, because that implies a concern just about racism. But there is also sexism and classism and heterosexism and anti-Semitism. It’s all of it, and that’s why we have to address all of it. All of it has got to go.…
‘‘
‘‘
He wrote an essay for The New York Times just months before he passed. “While my time here has now come to an end, I want you to know that in the last days and hours of my life, you inspired me,” he wrote. “You filled me with hope about the next chapter of the great American story when you used your power to make a difference in our society. Millions of people motivated simply by human compassion laid down the burdens of division. Around the country and world, you set aside race, class, age, language and nationality to demand respect for human dignity.
To be revolutionary implies that I’m not here for the structure, I’m here for the restructuring.
I invite you to be what John Lewis called “purveyors of good trouble.” He said, “Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble." Now that you have been given some context, I ask you again: What does good trouble mean to you? With those words before us, let us all commit ourselves to a practice that helps us respond to our mission as a collective and with individual responsibility to do as our founders wanted in their bold progressive vision of St. Stephen’s. Let us contemplate what good trouble looks like and means for us as individuals and as a community. Let us pick up the mantle of justice left by John Lewis and so many others. Let us embody righteousness and peace, love and truth, knowing that this is not political, this is not just ethical; we all need to be reminded that this is foundational to who we are as Spartans. So as we continue to navigate the emotional exhaustion, the social media trauma and the division in our city, country and world, I leave you with this reminder: Lewis and so many others fought for many of the freedoms we have today, yet there are still more freedoms to gain. There’s a part of me that fights both alongside and for each of you so that others will not have the same struggles. I’m hopefully creating a lens so that when you navigate the landscape of St. Stephen’s, when you go to college, you will be better equipped to see the best in everyone. So please do what you can to stay well. I need you back on this campus, because we have got some trouble to get into—good and necessary trouble.
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CL AS S OF 2020
Winter 2021
P H OTOS LEFT TO RIGHT: Sophia Waugh, Ami Ginor, Kate Goodman and Emily Metcalfe; Naeyon Kang, Shirley Yang and Rachel Huo
CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF
2020
Our school community learned numerous important life lessons from the Class of 2020— first and foremost, that Spartans are indeed resilient. When the global COVID-19 pandemic altered life as we knew last spring, St. Stephen’s seniors stood tall, together, in heroic fashion. Denied a traditional graduation by circumstances beyond anyone’s control or imagination, they carried on. They donned their protective face masks, physically distanced themselves from friends and mentors, and showed up in every way possible to support one another through the end of the school year. They hosted coffee house socials for their peers, held online movie nights, attended virtual proms and celebrated graduation with an exuberant campus car parade. Class of 2020, we salute you! Collectively and individually, you stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the greatest Spartans in St. Stephen’s history. You make us proud to call you classmates, peers and Spartan alumni!
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Medals and Honors
Bishop Hines founded St. Stephen’s to be a radically different place. The school was to demonstrate a new way of looking at education —teachers, boys and girls would live together in the wilds of the Texas Hill Country. They were expected to learn to live together while engaging in the most rigorous academic program. He started the school with the idea that a St. Stephen's education would be used “...as an enduring basis for moral decisions” and would “...equip the student with satisfaction in both his or her academic and devotional lives” and so that “the power of the spirit would live and grow in the student.” The Bishop Hines Medal is awarded to the senior who maintained the highest academic standing throughout their junior and senior years. The 2020 Bishop Hines Medal was presented to Lizzy Jones. Named for the school’s first headmaster, The William Brewster Medal was established in 1960 by the St. Stephen’s faculty to recognize a member of the senior class who has made the greatest total contribution to the life of the school. Brewster wanted a school where students learned by studying and by living in a community grounded in the Christian tradition of respect and concern for others. He believed St. Stephen’s students who thrived in an inclusive school community would be prepared to be engaged citizens of the world. Each year a faculty committee chooses the recipient of the William Brewster Medal and awards it to the senior who has made the greatest total contribution to the life of the school. The Brewster Medal recipient is an engaged and talented student—strong across all disciplines and genuinely interested in “the life of the mind.” The 2020 Brewster Medal was presented to Edbert Wu.
The Dobbie Leverton Fenton Medal was established in 2001 by the Alumni Association. The award is named for the beloved teacher, advisor and friend who lived a life of compassionate service. Fenton came to St. Stephen’s as an 8th-grade boarding student and graduated in 1963. She returned to the school in 1968 to begin what would become a 33-year career. She taught English, served as a college counselor and was a mentor to hundreds of students. She also believed deeply in the ability of individuals to change the world for the better. Through her own words and actions, she celebrated differences, was slow to judge others and ministered to all she met, believing that everyone deserves equal and respectful treatment. The medal is awarded annually to a member of the senior class who promotes the values of social justice. The 2020 Dobbie Leverton Fenton Medal was awarded to Kate Goodman.
Diplomas with High Honors Clea Bell Shaunak Divine Kate Goodman Lizzy Jones Taya Lorenz Dennis Lu
Diplomas with Honors Victoria Alcocer Emilia Alton Madeleine Andrien Liam Archacki Beck Arnow Julian Baeza Andrew Borders Sophia Calder Allen Cao Yui Cao Jake Chappelear Jorn Dammann Margot Downing Elle Eyestone Vivian Fu Roland Gadbois Anya Ganne Indigo Giles America Gonzalez Jim Guo Yusoo Hwang
Aubrey Johnson Braeden Johnson Sophie Johnson Patrick Kennedy Jin Se Kim Chris Laird James Li Jack Li Kamdyn Lyon Ava McDonald Cole McQuinn Jordan Mendelson Emily Metcalfe Camille Miura Sarah Murphy Safwan Naviwala Greg Pacitti Riley Pennell Charlie Prest Regan Rudman Dan Sabra Ali Sait Aditya Sankaran Lillian Sims Compton Stewart Leila Tilin Kate Van Dusen Selina Wang Sophia Waugh Jacob Wong Edbert Wu
Cum Laude Society Emilia Alton Clea Bell Sophia Calder Jorn Dammann Shaunak Divine Roland Gadbois Anya Ganne Kate Goodman Lizzy Jones James Li Taya Lorenz Dennis Lu Cole McQuinn Jordan Mendelson Camille Miura Sarah Murphy Charlie Prest Regan Rudman Ali Sait Aditya Sankaran Compton Stewart Kate Van Dusen Jacob Wong Edbert Wu
2 0 2 0 G R A D U AT I O N
The Bishop John E. Hines Medal was named after the Rt. Rev. John Hines, founder of St. Stephen's Episcopal School, who was a man of extraordinary vision and bold action.
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The Jan Hines Senior Leadership Award This award is named in honor of longtime English teacher Jan Hines. Like its namesake, recipients of the award have made positive contributions to the school and have worked tirelessly to make our community a better place. For their efforts we are truly grateful! The Jan Hines Senior Leadership Award was presented to Emelia Alton, Allen Cao, Sierra Coffey, America Gonzalez, David Houston, Cole McQuinn and Ali Sait. The Spiritual Leadership Award is presented to the student of any faith tradition who has embodied the Gospel message that the way to greatness is through service. Living generously and selflessly, this student was an extraordinary servant leader and put into practice our mission to “respect the dignity of every human being.” Safwan Naviwala received the Spiritual Leadership Award. All Upper School students are required to complete 10 service hours each year, and these hours must meet the service learning criteria. In
Winter 2021
addition to completing the required hours, this student wrote essays addressing her personal foundation for service, conducted research on societal circumstances underlying the issues her service addressed, and shared a meaningful reflection on what she learned. Mae McMillin earned Service Learning Distinction. The Equity and Inclusion Leadership and Service Award honors the efforts of students who strive to promote understanding and appreciation of equity and inclusion in its multitude of forms at St. Stephen's. Students selected to receive this award have demonstrated a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion by serving as a role model and have demonstrated outstanding efforts to promote an environment free from bias and discrimination. They worked to provide all students with a school experience that is rich in varying perspectives, and they are shining examples of those who negotiate at the front lines for the rights of every human being.
The National Latin Exam is a highly competitive annual exam in which more than 150,000 students from Australia to Zimbabwe strive for excellence. Only a small percentage achieves a score worthy of official recognition. Riley Pennell and Lillian Sims achieved Maxima Cum Laude and earned silver medals. The Texas Math League is a series of six mathematics contests given throughout the year. The top 5 individual scores on each contest contribute to a team score. In 2020 St. Stephen’s finished first in its region for the 10th straight year and among the top three in the state for the sixth year in a row. Andrew Borders, Dennis Lu and Adi Sankaran had strong performances on the TXML. Students around the country participate in the American Mathematics Competition, and the top 5 percent among them are invited to take the American Invitational Math Exam. This select
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The StuGov Senior Leadership Award is named after alumna Michelle Hull ’15, who faithfully served as president of her class three out of four years. The award honors those seniors who demonstrated persistent and dedicated service to the ongoing function and betterment of student government during their final year at St. Stephen’s. The 2020 award recipients were Jinho Rhee and Sophia Waugh.
Senior Book Prizes
Academic Honors The National Greek Exam is a highly competitive annual exam in which several thousand students from 188 schools worldwide strive for excellence. Only a small percentage achieves a score worthy of official recognition. Clea Bell achieved Maxima Cum Laude and red ribbon status.
Victoria Alcocer, Sierra Coffey and Kate Goodman were presented with the Equity and Inclusion Leadership and Service Award.
group included two St. Stephen’s seniors: Lizzy Jones and Nott Laoaron. The National Chinese Honor Society recognizes academic excellence and the achievements of students studying Chinese as a second language. A chapter was founded at St. Stephen’s 21 years ago and is named “Li Long,” or “Powerful Dragon.” Miriam Kessler was chosen for induction into the National Chinese Honor Society. The Catherine Elliott Montgomery Prize is awarded by a committee of teachers to a member of the senior class whose creativity, character and scholarship give promise of a contribution in history or the social sciences. The 2020 Montgomery Prize was awarded to Compton Stewart.
Book prizes are awarded in each subject to the student who was either the most outstanding or who showed the greatest improvement. The winner of each award is determined by the faculty members who teach the subject. English 12: Julian Baeza Chinese 1: Indigo Giles Chinese 6: Miriam Kessler Chinese 7: Edbert Wu Spanish 7: Roland Gadbois Latin 2: Lillian Sims French 2: Emily Young French 3: Emma Hou French 5: David Houston French 7: Julian Baeza Advanced European History: Taya Lorenz Statistics and Selected Topics: Compton Stewart Advanced Statistics: Shaunak Divine and Jason Lewis Engineering: Kendall Hieber Social Science Seminars: Ali Sait Theology: Stella FitzGerald and Cole McQuinn Advanced Biology II: Roland Gadbois Visual Arts III: Anna Nasi Advanced Art History: Mae McMillin Astrophysics: Lizzy Jones Projects in Science and Technology: Beck Arnow
Spartan Magazine
International Students of the Year This award is presented each year to the international senior or seniors who have made significant contributions to the school community during their tenure at St. Stephen’s. This year the award was given to two strong students, two-year residential proctors, who were actively involved in athletics and club memberships. The International Student of the Year award was presented to Emilia Alton and Allen Cao.
Residential Proctor Medals
2 0 2 0 G R A D U AT I O N
Emilia Alton Allen Cao Yui Cao Jae Clarke Joshua Fakeh Miranda Galvan Rachel Huo Yusoo Hwang Alvin Ishimwe Nayeon Kang Jin Se Kim James Li Michael Martinez Safwan Naviwala Charlie Prest Lillian Sims Adam Slim Jinho Rhee Katherine Wilkey
PH OTO S LEFT TO RIGHT: Beck Arnow and Addie McClish; Emily Wilschetz and Emily Young
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Fine Arts Awards The Velberta Asher Towner Award in the Performing Arts was named for a dedicated member of the St. Stephen’s faculty and former chair of the fine arts department. A member of the faculty from 1958 to 1984, “Bert” worked to build a program in which students could explore and excel in the arts. We honor her contributions with this award, which was presented to the senior or seniors who excelled in the performing arts. The 2020 Towner Award was presented to America Gonzalez and Noah Yow. The Rev. Charles Abram and Virginia Sumners Music Award is given in memory of a founding trustee, father and grandfather of several alumni, and a lifelong benefactor of the school. The honor is presented each year to a member of the senior class who has made the greatest overall contribution to music within the school. The 2020 Sumners Music Award recipient was Cole McQuinn. The Anne Dewey Guerin Award is presented each year to the member of the senior class who has made the greatest contribution to the theatre program. The 2020 Anne Dewey Guerin award was presented to Compton Stewart. The Chris Sullivan Outstanding Guitar Ensemble Member Noah Yow Outstanding Jazz Band Members Cole McQuinn and Noah Yow Outstanding Leadership for Orchestra Vivian Fu Outstanding Orchestra Member Lizzy Jones Outstanding Choral Student Stella FitzGerald Most Improved Dance Student Nayeon Kang Outstanding Graphic Design Student Kaysi Gutierrez Excellence in Digital Imaging Regan Rudman
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PH OTO LEFT TO RIGHT: Margot Downing, Kevin Jamieson and Sophia Calder
Spartan Magazine
Athletic Awards
The Don Cunningham Award is given to one senior boy and girl who had the greatest overall impact on the athletic program. To be eligible for this award, recipients must have earned a letter in three different sports their senior year, and have demonstrated leadership, dedication and sportsmanship—all traits held high by Don Cunningham, esteemed coach, and director of athletics during the early years of the school. The 2020 Don Cunningham Award was presented to David Houston and Lizzy Jones. The Athletic Leadership Award is presented each year to a male and female student-athlete who have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities within the St. Stephen’s Athletic program over their career in the Upper School. These qualities include, but are not limited to, hard work and dedication, commitment to both their peers and the athletic program, and being a positive representative of St. Stephen’s Episcopal School. The recipients excel to the best of their ability in competition, exhibiting determination and perseverance in the face of individual and team challenges. The 2020 Athletic Leadership Award was presented to Kate Goodman and Edbert Wu.
The Sportsmanship Award is given to one student-athlete per varsity team who best demonstrated the qualities of respect for the sport, their teammates, coaches, opponents and officials while representing St. Stephen’s. Winners are chosen by members of each team. Football: David Houston Boys Cross Country: Yusoo Hwang Field Hockey: Kate Goodman Boys Volleyball: Jin Se Kim Boys Swimming: Beck Arnow Girls Swimming: Addie McClish Boys Soccer: Roland Gabois Girls Soccer: Kate Goodman Boys Basketball: Josh Fakeh Girls Basketball: Sierra Coffey Baseball: Braeden Johnson Boys Lacrosse: Patrick Kennedy Boys Track and Field: Julian Baeza Caving: Beck Arnow Crew: Kendall Heiber Boys Climbing: Tristan Nguyen Girls Climbing: Addie McClish Boys Tennis Academy: Charlie Prest
All-SPC Award Winners Boys Cross Country: Julian Baeza and Coby Carrozza Boys Swimming: Julian Baeza, Coby Carrozza and Jake Chappelear Girls Soccer: Lizzy Jones
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The David Paschall Award was created in the spring of 1994 to recognize and honor outstanding accomplishments of students in academics and athletics. It was named in honor of David Paschall, who served as the boys’ athletic director at St. Stephen’s for 29 years. In high school, he lettered in three sports and was the valedictorian of his senior class. At the University of the South, he was a cum laude graduate and a three-sport letter winner. To be eligible for the award, a student must earn a varsity letter during each term and maintain honor roll status during the fall and winter terms. The 2020 award recipients were Beck Arnow, Julian Baeza, Shaunak Divine, Kate Goodman, Yusoo Hwang, Sophie Johnson and Lizzy Jones.
PHOTO S TOP TO BOTTOM: Sierra Coffey; Valeria Montanez and Emily Young; the St. Stephen's seal, members of the Class of 2020
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SPARTAN
STRONG ADVERSITY REVEALS TRUE CHARACTER
Your gift to the Annual Fund supports the school’s operating budget, which has been dramatically impacted by the need to keep our community safe during this unusual time.
TWICE-WEEKLY MEDICAL TESTING Upgraded Air Filtration Systems STATE-OF-THE ART CLASSROOM TECHNOLOGY New Health Care Procedures
NEW OUTDOOR LEARNING AND DINING SPACES Personal Protective and Sanitation Equipment
Safe-Distancing Partitions and Signage
RETROFITTED QUARANTINE HOUSING Student Financial Aid Professional Development and so much more! THANK YOU!
Please consider making your Annual Fund gift today through a one-time gift, monthly donation or pledge. www.sstx.org/givenow
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Spartan Magazine
SPARTAN Life
EVENTS CLUBS CULTURE CELEBRATIONS AWARDS TALENT SPORTS HOLIDAYS ACHIEVEMENTS SUCCESS
Hand-sanitizing station in Gunn Hall, security guard Chris Ernst, new campus safety signage
Campus Health and Safety Enhancements In preparing for the start of a new year, schools typically look for opportunities to improve their academic, athletic and fine arts programs and enhance their extracurricular offerings. Toss a global pandemic into the mix, and preparing for the safe return of students requires a whole new level of campus planning. Preparations for the reopening of school in August began back in the spring. In addition to creating a focused reopening task force, we established a medical advisory committee comprised of nurses and doctors, infectious disease and global public health experts, and pediatricians. Further, a number of St. Stephen’s employees were certified in contract tracing by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Collectively, these dedicated professionals helped identify and inform the many strategies and tactics employed throughout the summer to ready the campus for the safe return of students, faculty and staff. “St. Stephen’s has taken extraordinary measures to promote the safety and health of all students and employees this school year,” said Head of School Chris Gunnin. “Although we cannot completely control every aspect of our environment, we believe we have made enhancements to our campus and facilities that will help keep our community members as safe as possible.”
New health and safety enhancements to our physical campus and structural procedures: » Information boards with COVID-19 symptoms were posted at the guard station at the entrance to campus. » Twice-weekly on-campus COVID testing implemented for students, faculty and staff. » Hand-sanitizing stations were added to the entrances of school buildings and in classrooms. » Additional picnic tables were set up outside the Kathryn Respess Crossroads. » Classrooms were redesigned so that desks and work stations are physically distanced from one another. Occupancy of classrooms are governed by the 45-square-foot per-person standard. » Health and safety signs were posted to building and classroom doors, reminding students to wear face masks, wash their hands frequently and stay a safe distance from others. » Six new canopies will be erected to cover new outside seating areas across campus, including three by the Upper School and three below the dining hall by the Middle School. » Dining hall seating was reconfigured according to safe distancing guidelines, and additional outside seating areas were added. » Sneeze guards were put in place around the dining hall servery and dining area to inhibit the spread of disease. » Study spaces in the library were reconfigured according to safe distancing guidelines. » A number of special air-purification systems were installed in high-traffic buildings around campus. » A total of 21 separate quarantine/isolation spaces were established on campus. These include new stand-alone living units installed near Clayton Gym, as well as a refurbished Advancement/Marketing Communications trailer (next to the Health Center), which was reconfigured into student living quarters. » Our custodial team uses four new electrostatic sprayers to routinely clean high-traffic indoor spaces throughout the year. » Water fountain drinking spouts were replaced with water bottle fillers for added safety.
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Biomedical-Technology Students Gain Real-World Insights into Nursing Science instructor Kathy McCain was watching ABC Evening News in late August when a piece came on about a team of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses caring for 19 critical infants as Hurricane Laura barreled down on them at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital for Women in Louisiana. The story highlighted the heroic work of NICU Nursing Director Leah Upton and her team, which faced down the Category 4 hurricane to protect and care for their fragile patients. Rather than relay the news story to students in her Biomedical-Technology class, McCain reached out to Upton and asked if she would share her experience directly with them. She was thrilled when Upton agreed. During a class this fall, Upton told students how her team of nurses worked throughout the worst of the hurricane, without running water or air conditioning, to keep the newborns alive — even after the rest of the hospital had been evacuated. Their most fragile patients had breathing tubes and were on respirators and ventilators. “Babies that vulnerable cannot thermo-regulate,” she told the class. “They have no brown fat to keep them warm, so we had to secure their bodies in Ziploc bags to help regulate their temperature. “Beyond all our medical skills, the close teamwork needed by the nurses that day is what helped save lives,” Upton added. McCain nodded in recognition. To date, five nursing specialists have spoken with McCain’s Biomedical-Technology students this fall as they studied infectious diseases and immunology. “The one common theme among all of them has been solid communication,” she noted. “I decided to ask a plethora of nurses with different specialties to share with students how nursing has changed and to discuss the flexibility needed for the job,” McCain said. In addition to Upton, her students have spoken with Kimberly Lewis, director of clinical effectiveness; Tara Conley, gastroenterology specialist; and LaDrena January and Susan Russo, both pediatric infectious diseases experts. Each has provided an array of real-world cases and offered keen insights into the problem-solving skills needed in the profession.
McCain noted that her students have been fully engaged each time one of the nurses has addressed the class. “They cannot stop asking questions,” she said of the students. “Having medical professionals with boots-onthe-ground explaining to the students what challenges they face has been invaluable.”
“Each of these professionals has brought their passion to my classroom,” McCain said. “Their professionalism is forefront in solving medical cases. Learning how they can provide a stronger, safer experience for the next patient has its basis in the scientific method. Each one explained how new protocols are put in place so that mistakes are not made the next time and how hospitals work each day to adjust to new breakthroughs and procedures. Their discussions have been current and relatable.”
PHOTOS TOP TO BOTTOM: Kathy McCain's Biomed-Tech class meets remotely;
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special guest speaker Leah Upton
Spartan Magazine
Peter Lee Ventures into Outer Space
Last fall senior Peter Lee built his own radio telescope in Projects in Science and Technology. Repurposed from an old satellite TV dish, the telescope picks up radio frequencies from space and then converts them into a format Lee can both visualize and analyze. “While you are probably familiar with human-made radio signals on Earth — think AM and FM radio — many astronomical objects also emit radio frequencies,” said Troy Lanier, Lee’s science instructor. “For the antenna, Lee added various electronics and software to the old satellite that amplified and filtered out certain frequencies of interest. “For example, hydrogen in the sun emits a signature radio frequency,” Lanier added. “So by pointing the dish at the sun and then isolating this particular frequency on the feed from his antenna, he is attempting to detect the so-called ‘hydrogen line’ in the sun.” Lanier has been impressed with Lee’s willingness to take on projects with no definitive roadmap. Last year, while enrolled in Electronics and Robotics, he built a scale model of a self-driving Tesla truck. “He attached ultrasonic sensors, tweaked algorithms, 3-D printed the body, and created circuits for the headlights and taillights,” Lanier said. “I always loved fiddling around with electronics and making robots, so I took Robotics my junior year after other students recommended it to me,” Lee explained. “Grades were determined by our project notebook—where I would organize my notes and do outside research, essentially making my own textbook—and our individual projects. This method allowed
each student to go at their own pace and demonstrate our understanding of the topic.” Lanier noted that Lee's radio telescope is a capstone project built on numerous sources. “What’s wonderful about this current project is that Peter has brought together knowledge from Electronics and Robotics class, Danielle Horton’s Engineering Club and Frank Mikan’s Astrophysics class,” Lanier noted. Lee said he was inspired to build the radio telescope after watching the film “Contact” and from his love of the evening sky. “I wanted to continue and expand my passion of studying the sky,” he said. “It was thrilling to think about listening to radio frequencies from outer space.” After discovering that he could utilize satellite dishes to receive radio frequency signals, Lee set up his project objectives and dug in. “I wanted to receive a hydrogen line signal, a specific frequency emitted by hydrogen atoms from the sun and Milky Way, and create a visual map of the Milky Way through the lens of radio frequencies,” he explained. “As there are neither answer sheets nor textbooks that I could refer to, it was very challenging to determine if the signal I was receiving was the one that I was looking for. Finally, in November, I was able to receive signals that seem to be a candidate for the hydrogen line signal.” This tenacious Spartan hopes to continue to build upon his knowledge of science and electronics in college, where he plans to study computer science and computer engineering. sstx.org
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Soccer Academy Player Makes Professional Debut In late September, Spartan senior Alexander Francois made his official debut with the Austin Bold, a professional American soccer team. Francois entered the match in the 83rd minute and contributed to the team’s final goal of the game. Thanks to his assist, the Bold moved one step closer in their quest for the USL Championship. “It was honestly surreal,” Francois said of stepping onto the field at Bold Stadium. “I've always dreamed of playing professionally and getting the opportunity to do so in my hometown with lots of friends, family and coaches in attendance was better than anything I could have imagined.” Francois has played soccer since he was about 3 years old, and believes the sport has changed his life. “The field has always been an important place for me because it has always challenged me,” he said. “I try to lead by example.” Of course, St. Stephen’s Soccer Academy Director Shane Maguire was excited to see Francois’ dream of playing professionally come true. “A.J. never misses an opportunity to improve,” Maguire said. “He is loved by all his teammates. He gives support to those who need it and requests action and accountability from everyone around him.” When asked what he hopes the future holds, Francois said his goals have not changed. “My ambition is the same as when I was young: compete at the highest possible level of play I can,” he said. “I hope to do this while still getting a high level of education as well.” —chelsea richards, sports information director and upper school athletic director
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Tennis Academy Standout Shares Her School Experience with Others When Franca Piaggi came to St. Stephen’s in 2019 for Upper School and to train in the school’s Tennis Academy, she was a top-ranked player for her age group in Peru. This fall, the 10th grader took time to share her St. Stephen’s experience with current and prospective families interested in the school’s specialized tennis program. “My day starts, waking up early,” she said. “Sometimes I go to breakfast to meet with some friends right before class. During off periods, I like to go to the library to read — or to paint or draw. Sixth period I always have off, so I come to the Tennis Academy to train with my coaches. It is always extremely fun. “Homework is hard,” Piaggi continued. “But you’ll always find a way to get things done. Your friends will be there for you. Your advisors will always be there to help you. If you have any problems, just send an email, and they will answer right back.” To learn more about the Tennis Academy, please visit https://www.sstx.org/tennis-academy. Spartan profiles can be found on the school’s YouTube page. Visit our website for the direct link.
Spartan Magazine
Emmanuel Acho Speaks to St. Stephen’s Community About Race in America In mid-October, Head of School Chris Gunnin had the opportunity to talk with Emmanuel Acho, sports news analyst and host of “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man.” The two St. Mark’s graduates discussed Acho’s experiences in high school and beyond, as well as what led him to create the video series.
“You wouldn’t walk outside, look up in the sky at a rainbow and say, ‘I don’t see it, I’m colorblind,’” he added. “Because there is a beauty in creation. There is a beauty in being white, there’s a beauty in being black. There’s a beauty in being brown…. See color, acknowledge and appreciate color, and treat my color equally.”
“People called me an Oreo — black on the outside and white on the inside,” Acho said, recounting a hurtful comment he frequently heard in his youth. “I kind of laughed it off, but then I realized just how derogatory that was. My peers were saying that I am too smart and I dress too proper to be black.”
Acho recently published a book with the same name as his video series that was released on Nov. 10, the day his discussion with Gunnin was shared in Middle School and Upper School Chapels. The book offers a deep dive into conversations that he hopes will help mend the racial divide in our country.
“I wish my peers had known that I felt uncomfortable, that I didn’t fit in,” added Acho, the son of Nigerian immigrants who went on to play in the National Football League (NFL). “I wish one of my white classmates had taken me in, included me, even though I might not look like them.”
When asked by Gunnin about the shift from playing in the NFL to being a published author, Acho responded, “There’s a difference between your career and your calling. You career is what you’re paid for; your calling is what you’re made for. Never neglect your calling.”
If hearing Acho described as an Oreo causes you discomfort, he would consider that an important first step toward racial reconciliation. Acho believes lack of communication is a major barrier between people of different races in America. He was compelled to create “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man” [https://uncomfortableconvos.com/] last summer after the police killings of George Floyd and other black men and women. Acho believes the years he spent growing up in Dallas, “immersed in white culture,” enable him to serve as a “translator” for blacks and whites alike. He describes the program as “a conversation … about race that many white people have never been able to have.” He hopes the online platform will heighten communication and understanding among white people and those of color by serving as a “safe space” for difficult conversations. Through his videos, he seeks to dispel common misconceptions that white people have of blacks and to tackle tough race-related issues in America, including white privilege, national anthem protests in sports, the Black Lives Matter movement, defunding the police, “reverse racism,” interracial dating and use of the N-word, among others. And America is listening. The first episode of his program, which he filmed and produced himself, garnered more than 28 million views on YouTube. During his video call with Gunnin, Acho addressed the importance of seeing and being seen for who you are. “People say, ‘Well, I don’t see color; I see everybody equally,’ Acho noted. “The intention of not seeing color and of treating everybody equally, it comes from a great place. But to not see my color is to not see me. My color, by blackness, is just an attribute of who I am. Don’t undermine that, don’t redact that, don’t take that away from me, because that is who I am.
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“Believing in the power of success can blind us to the need for meaning and connection,” he added. “We torture ourselves with the idea of not being enough, and that thought sustains itself in us, regardless of the praise we receive from others.” Mochel shared that discomfort is an inevitable part of being human and advised that we not try to avoid or resist it. Instead, he suggested we allow ourselves to feel the discomfort and then move on. “Contentment and settling into life comes with understanding that we will ride a range of emotions throughout our lives,” he noted. “You can have a day filled with difficulty and still have a good life.
David Mochel Shares Lessons on Applied Attention Mindfulness On Nov. 30, while St. Stephen’s students were enjoying the last day of Thanksgiving break, the school’s faculty and staff gathered remotely for a day of meetings and special programs. A highlight of the in-service was a presentation by David Mochel, a leading expert in applied attention mindfulness. “The ethos of ‘happily ever after’ is biologically impossible, but great marketing,” Mochel said. “But it’s a common idea of success: If we achieve something, then we will be happy. We believe the then is more important than the now.
School Community Honors Stephanie Johnson In early October, the St. Stephen’s community celebrated the wellearned retirement of one of the school’s longest-serving employees, Stephanie Johnson. A beloved member of the dining hall staff, Johnson filled our bellies and nourished our collective spirit throughout 46 years of dedicated service. Following morning Chapel service, school members lined the pathway from the Chapel to the dining hall, cheering and applauding for Johnson. Later in the afternoon, she enjoyed a smaller retirement celebration with her friends and colleagues, complete with her favorite chocolate cake. Throughout her 46 years at St. Stephen’s, Johnson touched the lives and hearts of countless Spartans, many of whom shared tributes in honor of her retirement. We thank you, and we will miss you dearly.
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“Unwanted challenges often lead us to develop new skills, relationships and a deep appreciation for our abilities,” he said, noting four key behaviors that can help people feel more grounded. “Any situation can be an opportunity if you make space for what you are feeling, connect kindly to others, cultivate positive internal resources and choose where you put your energy. “We can meet all of life if we do so with love, kindness and courage,” he concluded. Mochel’s presentation to faculty and staff was provided through generous support of the Brooke Howe Laws Endowed Lecture Series. The endowment supports an annual guest lecturer on social and emotional health. To learn more about supporting St. Stephen’s through this or another named endowment, please contact Christine Aubrey, associate head of school for advancement, at caubrey@sstx.org.
Spartan Magazine
Audience Captures Great Performances on Shakespeare Safari Jeremy Sweetlamb, Middle School theatre director, and his merry band of players recently pulled off the seemingly impossible: a delightful night of socially distanced live theatre—sans stage and theatre. In mid-October, Sweetlamb and his dauntless thespians and crew offered three performances of “Shakespeare Safari,” a series of scenes and monologues held at various outdoor areas around campus to a rotating audience that traveled from scene to scene in their vehicles. Below, Sweetlamb explains how the Middle School theatre members prepared for this innovative outdoor production. I knew having a traditionally seated audience was going to be impossible, and I was inspired by an ensemble that was doing “curbside theatre deliveries” to people's homes. The first several weeks of rehearsal were completely remote, which certainly was a challenge. Our goal was to be as prepared as possible for the time when we could work together in the actual performance spaces. One major limitation the physically spaced format created was that I was not able to see every scene for every performance. I had to relinquish a little bit of directorial control and trust that the actors were going to carry out our shared vision, even if I had to be at another spot on campus. Using long-range walkie talkies, our stage manager was able to communicate to everyone all at once from her headquarters in the Black Box theatre. She would call for the scenes to start; once they had all reported back in that they were done, she would call for all the cars to shift to the next spot. Robert Whyburn and Cameron Allen provided the technical icing on the cake, so to speak, adding the element of short-distance radio transmitters. These allowed audience members to stay in their cars and tune to a different station at each scene location on campus. My students really surprised me while working on this production. They had to deal with some heavy things, but if I am able to find something analogous that the student has experienced, we can talk about amplifying the way it felt. For instance, a youth actor may never have felt the “pangs of despised love,” as Hamlet put it in his “To be or not to be” soliloquy. But everyone has felt rejection in different areas of life—from friends, parents, social groups and the like. If I can get the actor to remember how that felt and readily tap into it, the delivery of the lines will naturally have that feel to it. In other situations, some actors may hold back or are guarded for whatever reason. The very nature of this performance required several short bursts of the same scene or monologue over and over. I was amazed to see the actors’ joy in that repetition. They were really able to get into a groove. And I was amazed at their energy levels—out there in 90-degree heat, screaming about murder six times in a row would exhaust a grownup. But they absolutely loved it.
Photo credit: Claudio Fox
There are so many practical skills that one learns from the process of rehearsing and performing a production. Beyond becoming comfortable speaking in front of strangers, theatre demands trust, hard work, long hours, cooperation, camaraderie, artistic expression, vulnerability, listening, respect.... Yet, nothing compares to the feeling a person gets from putting on an awesome play. It is one of those things you have to do to fully understand—like skydiving, childbirth or eating a whole banana split by yourself. PHOTOS TOP TO BOTTOM: Middle School thespian
Lainey Leslie, Addie Inman as Romeo in the Middle School Shakespeare Safari
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Designating a Beneficiary Makes Planned Giving Easy one of my beneficiaries. I did it from home on my own computer in a matter of minutes. Best of all, making a planned gift to the school did not require me to make a will or hire an expensive attorney!
When I began as director of planned giving several years ago, I was excited to take on the challenge and contribute to a school community that I truly believe in. As I dug into the weeds of estate planning, I quickly learned there are many myths about the planned giving process. One of the biggest misconceptions is that making a planned gift to the school is complicated and requires help from an estate attorney or wealth manager.
“If you have ever considered supporting the school through a planned gift to the endowment, I would highly encourage you to reach out to Melody Harman to learn more.”
Thankfully, that is not the case! It can be as easy as naming St. Stephen’s as a beneficiary. In fact, I recently worked with Middle School Athletic Director Kathy Coe on this exact type of planned gift. I asked her to help explain how simple the process is and why it is important to her to support the school. “St. Stephen’s is the place I always wanted to work,” Coe said. “I spent 20 years of my adult life working toward being a part of the St. Stephen’s community. I have always been awed by the school’s beauty, as well as its mission to inspire students to make a difference in the world. “Since I do not have children of my own, I decided that I would return part of my investment account back to the school that has given me so much,” Coe continued. “It is important to me that the school's financial foundation remains strong so that the ‘St. Stephen's experience’ is available for generations of Spartans to come. “Making my planned gift was extremely easy!” Coe added. “I simply logged into my retirement account online and added St. Stephen’s as
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Kathy is right: A beneficiary designation gift is a quick and simple way to make a meaningful gift to St. Stephen’s. You can designate the school as a beneficiary of a retirement plan, investment or bank account, or your life insurance policy. I hope you will join Kathy and other members of the St. Stephen’s Legacy Council by making a planned gift of your own to the school. To discuss your options, please send an email to mharman@sstx.org or call my office at 512.327.1213 x125. I would be honored to discuss ways to build your own St. Stephen’s legacy. Thank you!
—melody harman, director of planned giving
PHOTO Kathy Coe with her sweet pup, Raven
ALUMN I N EWS
Spartan Magazine
Alumni Connect Spartan Study Hall Last spring, the Spartan Alumni Association started a series of social events to virtually engage alumni by decade. During the fall, we hosted two decade Spartan Study Halls per month. This spring these events will continue.
On The Road: Spartan Tour 2020–21 Although we could not travel to cities around the country where Spartans live, the Spartan Alumni Association embarked on a tour of the country, visiting 11 cities virtually. This fall and winter, we hosted events in Boston; Washington, D.C.; Dallas/Fort Worth; Denver; Los Angeles and San Francisco. Just like your favorite concert tour, attendees received the official tour t-shirt following the event.
Discussions on The Hill Last spring, we kicked off an educational series, Discussions on The Hill, which is designed to educate, inform, and showcase programs and activities on campus. In September, school nurse Marsha Caven, R.N., parent Leslie Wells, M.D., and alumna Leilani Valdes, M.D., ’91 presented “Just the Facts on Covid-19.” The three healthcare professionals provided an overview of St. Stephen’s response to the pandemic and answered questions about the virus. In October, Christine Aubrey, associate head of school for advancement, hosted a session on the school’s remarkable founding and thoughtful founders, the Rt. Rev. John E. Hines and our first head of school, the Rev. William Brewster. In November, we welcomed Yvonne Adams, director of equity and inclusion, and Caitlin Sweetlamb, Upper School coordinator of equity and inclusion. They provided attendees with a summary of the diversity, equity and inclusion audit.
Lunch on The Hill Last winter, Head of School Chris Gunnin hosted our Lunch on The Hill series. The event allowed alumni a chance to catch up and receive an update on campus activities. These events will return virtually in February.
Crackers and Milk—Holiday Special Before the virtual presentation of Lessons and Carols on Dec. 13, Spartan alumni from the classes of 1951–1979 gathered to reminisce and share stories of their St. Stephen’s holidays at a virtual Crackers and Milk event.
Upcoming Events
ON THE ROAD Spartan Tour 2020–21: Houston Feb. 11, 6 p.m. DISCUSSIONS ON THE HILL Feb. 26, TBD SPARTAN STUDY HALL—2000s March 2, 6 p.m. ON THE ROAD Spartan Tour 2020–21: San Antonio March 4, 6 p.m. SPARTAN STUDY HALL—2010s March 9, 6 p.m. REUNION WEEKEND 2020-21 April 16-18 ON THE ROAD Spartan Tour 2020–21: NYC May 6, 6 p.m. DISCUSSIONS ON THE HILL May 7, TBD SPARTAN STUDY HALL—1950s & 60s May 18, 6 p.m. SPARTAN STUDY HALL—1970s May 20, 6 p.m. ON THE ROAD Spartan Tour 2020–21: Austin June 3, 6 p.m. SPARTAN STUDY HALL—1980s June 7, 6 p.m. SPARTAN STUDY HALL—1990s June 9, 6 p.m. SPARTAN STUDY HALL—2000s June 22, 6 p.m. SPARTAN STUDY HALL—2010s June 24, 6 p.m. *All events are virtual unless otherwise indicated, and listed in central time.
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SPARTAN ALUMNI:
By the Numbers
Alumni by State
7,521 5,648
Total Alumni Total Reachable Alumni
< 25 26-50 51-100 101-200 200 3,779
Alumni Living Abroad
337 26
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1950s 1960s
Alumni by Decade
1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s 2010s 2020s
392 704 855 1,145 1,212 1,452 1,593 168
Spartan Magazine
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St. Stephen’s Book Club Members https://sstx.pbc.guru/
455
Spartan Alumni Network Users spartanalumninetwork.com
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Spartan Alumni Association Board Members
2020–21
Regional Alumni Events
18
Spartan Study Halls
10
Discussions on The Hill
10
On The Road: Spartan Tours
3 880
Alumni Facebook Users
Lunch on The Hill
2
Tour: Crackers and Milk
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2020-21 Editions of Spartan Alumni Association newsletter, The Hill
Spartan Alumni Reunion Weekend April 16-18, 2021 To reserve your spot at one or more of Spartan Alumni Association Events, go to https:/bit.ly/SpartanAlumniEvents
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Spartan Alumni Association The Spartan Alumni Association works to support and advance St. Stephen’s Episcopal School’s founding values of educational excellence, diversity and community. The Association strives to further the school’s mission to inspire a lasting love of learning and spirit of service so that each student lives a life of meaning and enriches the world. The Association accomplishes this by building closer relationships among its members and with the school.
Spartan Alumni Association Board Patricia Henna Rowe ’89 President Jennifer Stayton ’85 Past President Jane Dryden Louis ’69 Secretary Mallory Boyle ’04 Alumni Regional Representative–Texas Louise McNutt Brazitis ’07 Chair, Alumni Recognition Paul Byars ’07 Alumni Chair, Spartans Engage James Carter ’13 Alumni Regional Representative–New York Ben Chan ’95 Alumni Regional Representative–Washington, D.C. Jeannette Schaleben Cook ’58 Pioneer Spartan Representative Becky Hollis Diffen ’99 Alumni Co-Chair, Annual Fund 2020–21 Daniel Diffen ’99 Alumni Co-Chair, Annual Fund 2020–21 Shannon Powers Flahive ’96 Co-Chair, Reunion 2020–21 Alice Nazro Nezzer ’87 Co-Chair, Reunion 2020–21
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Spartan Magazine
Pria Gokhale '19 During her time on The Hill, Pria Gokhale ’19 was a member of Varsity Tennis and a student coordinator of Saturdays@iACT, a volunteer-driven ESL program for refugee youth organized in coordination with Interfaith Action of Texas (iACT). Gokhale is now a sophomore at The University of Texas at Austin in the Plan II Honors Program. She also is involved in student government and their Deeds Not Words program. Gokhale recently reflected that while growing up, she rarely saw a person who looked like her who was celebrated in classrooms or found in history books. She made the assumption that there were no stories to tell. As she grew older, she realized that could not have been further from the truth. In her recently published children’s book, “Her Story Is Our Story,” she shares the personal histories of 10 amazing women of color. Gokhale hopes that by sharing their stories other young women may find representational role models. Reflecting on her years at St. Stephen’s, Gokahle said she is grateful for the many ways her teachers help cultivate her love for reading and writing. She said she loved every one of her English classes—from Postcolonial Novel with Colleen Hynes, Ph.D., to Literary Theory with Greg Bravo-Bonetti. She said her St. Stephen’s teachers played an important role in helping her value the diversity of the many narratives that existed on The Hill. Gokhale also said that her St. Stephen’s instructors taught her invaluable criticalthinking skills that she needed while creating her new book. “My goal wasn’t simply to share unwritten histories for the sake of knowledge, but for meaningful change,” she concluded.
Together, We Are Spartan Strong This year’s Annual Fund theme, Spartan Strong, is a reminder that the St. Stephen’s community is resilient and courageous. The pandemic has challenged all of us, including the school we love, which is why we are personally asking you to give to the Annual Fund this year in particular. Please support the school that supported us during our formative years. This year, we have the opportunity to make a significant impact by setting up an automatic monthly contribution. This option will allow you to give in a way that is easiest for you. Please support the Annual Fund with your one-time or monthly gift. If you already have made your gift this year, please accept our sincerest gratitude! Thank you for being Spartan Strong! Becky Hollis Diffen '99 and Daniel Diffen '99 Alumni Co-Chairs, Annual Fund 2020–21
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A LOOK BACK AT REUNION WEEKENDS
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Dear Spartan Alumni, of Reunion 2020–21! Throughout the We are so excited to be serving as co-chairs ion Weekend on The Hill. Although in this years, we have enjoyed our special Reun is weekend in different ways, what matters unusual year we will observe this special zing Spar tan community toge ther. that we will celebrate being part of the ama gues ts, unique opportunities to learn from Plans are being made to feature special up during this challenging time and a few fellow Spar tans, activities that lift you classmates, seeing your favorite teachers, surprises. Whe ther it’s connecting with your g the campus trails virtually, this weekend learning more about our school or explorin will engage friends and classmates around promises to be one to remember — one that the world. ial celebration with you! Be on the lookout We look forward to sharing this extra spec months on ways you can be part of this for additional information in the coming exciting weekend! Sincerely, Shannon Powers Flahive ’96 Co-Chair, Reunion 2020–21
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Alice Nazro Nezzer ’87 Co-Chair, Reunion 2020–21
Spartan Magazine
Special Alumni Awards Presented During Reunion Weekend Founders Alumni Award for Distinguished Service: Jill Matthews Wilkinson ’64 This year, St. Stephen’s will honor alumna Jill Matthews Wilkinson ’64 with the inaugural Founders Alumni Award for Distinguished Service. This honor is conferred by the Spartan Alumni Association to a person whose lifelong contribution to the school has been exemplary. For the past 56 years, Wilkinson’s support and dedication to her alma mater have been extraordinary. She has been a thoughtful partner with St. Stephen’s, seeking to understand the needs of the moment and into the future on many projects. Her advice and counsel have been invaluable. At a time when no school in Texas offered a language program in Chinese, Wilkinson made it possible through the Critical Language Endowment in 2002. As a result, countless students have had the opportunity to learn Chinese, and the school’s reputation for excellence in college preparatory education ascended to new heights regionally and nationally. For decades, she has shared her love of learning by providing a way for the school's teachers to attend St. John’s College to earn graduate degrees by granting tuition, room and board, transportation, and living expenses for six weeks every summer. For years, teachers have returned to the school with a better understanding of their own teaching. Wilkinson faithfully served two terms on the Board of Trustees, sharing knowledge, advice and support. Her thoughtful and humane approach to leadership has set an example of philanthropic support for others. She has advocated and supported the school’s Annual Fund, capital funds and endowment consistently beginning just three years after her graduation. Generations of students and faculty members have benefitted from her tremendous generosity.
Spartan Alumni Leadership Award 2021: Jennifer Stayton ’85 St. Stephen’s will honor Jennifer Stayton ’85 with the Spartan Alumni Leadership Award for 2021. The award honors the alumnus/na who has provided outstanding volunteer leadership in service to St. Stephen’s Episcopal School and the Spartan Alumni Association. Under her leadership as president, the Spartan Alumni Association revised the organization’s bylaws, reorganized the board and its leadership, defined roles and responsibilities, and recruited new members. With a strategic approach, her efforts led to 11 new members joining the board, as well as more efficient and effective meetings. From alumni recognition to moving to a volunteer-driven programming model, Stayton led the transition with direct communication, thoughtfulness and great humor. The impact of her leadership will be felt for years to come. As part of her role as president of the Spartan Alumni Association, she served on the board of trustees from 2017 to 2020. She currently serves as past president of the Spartan Alumni Association and joined the board of trustees for an additional three years. Stayton also serves as chair of the trustee advancement committee.
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Class Notes 1951
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Cliff Castle and his wife, Marjorie, are active in real estate. Cliff reported that they are generally healthy and enjoying life in West Chester, Pa. Their son, Clark, and his wife, Lindsey, live just a few miles away, but their other children are spread across New England. The couple enjoys golfing together and traveling to the beaches in New Jersey and Delaware. They have avoided the virus so far, but it has impacted their business and personal lives. Cliff and Marjorie send everyone at St. Stephen's their very best wishes. "Stay safe and support one another!"
Jay Millard has been hunkered down at their second home in Charleston, S.C., since leaving New York City in mid-March. They have decided to make it their new primary residence. He reported that there is much to do in Charleston, and he does not know when his main client, the Metropolitan Opera, will be back in action. Like many others, they acquired a pandemic puppy, a mini golden-doodle. As only pets can do, this new addition to the family has brought much joy to their lives. Jay hoped everyone is staying safe and wearing masks!
David Atherton reported that his son, Patrick Atherton '18, has finished his fourth semester of medical school and is 33 percent of the way there! David said that he misses all of his Spartan friends and hopes everyone is safe and healthy.
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Bob Scott and his wife, Dale, live in Warham, Mass. Bob is still an active artist. To check out his most recent works, go to https:// www.art-3000.com/picture/?iid=214686&a=5
Mary Louise “Lou” Porter Bailey and Scott Field Bailey ’70 welcomed their first grandchild, John Field Brown, on August 7, 2020. Proud parents are Katherine Bailey Brown ’05 and T. J. Brown ’99. John Field’s great-grandmother, Elizabeth Porter, was the beloved librarian at St. Stephen’s for 16 years. “John Field Brown, Class of 2038! Spartans forever!” Friends and classmates of Lou held a parade honoring her last September.
1960 Nancy Hopwood said “hello” to members of the classes of the ’50s and ’60s. She has lived in Ann Arbor, Mich., for 45 years — since joining the University of Michigan Medical School faculty. She practices pediatric endocrinology, teaches and conducts clinical research. She retired (for the second time) three years ago. Nancy loves to travel worldwide, which fuels her passion for photography. During COVID-19, she has found it fun to travel again through her pictures.
1964 Last fall Bayard Breeding took two classes from The University of Texas at Austin Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Both classes were on Zoom, which he thought was interesting. He said that so far the lectures in this format from the Mosaic Multicultural Foundation have been productive; it just takes some getting used to. His wife, Peggy, is still a docent at the Highlands Ranch Mansion. Bayard had a decent season with his garden plots. He really enjoyed the fresh, chemical-free vegetables. During this time, he has caught up on a lot of reading. Bayard wished everyone well and hoped they are staying safe. Arthur Wright lives in Austin on an inlet to Lake Austin near his daughter, Eileen Wright '96, and her family. His house was featured on an architecture tour. He said that they enjoy living there.
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1989 Christina Lowery is CEO of Girl Rising. On Oct. 10, 2020, the group hosted Girl Rising International Day of the Girl Summit. The free program was a day-long summit to promote activism, build leadership skills, discuss issues and amplify diverse voices. The event was an amazing success and included attendees from around the world.
James Michael Petry said he is mostly remaining upright and breathing. He would love to hear from or see his Spartan friends. He is at home all the time, living in a really cool part of “Big D,” the historical Lower Greenville area. He would love to have visitors!
1977 After 34 years working as a civil/environmental engineer for the U.S. Army and Army Corps of Engineers, Joan Coffing has retired. Her retirement has included more ballooning, fishing, time with the five grandkids and some gardening adventures. The year 2020 has made some of the ballooning and travelling a challenge, but she has still managed some fun trips.
1985 Jay Qatato is still living in the Houston area and employed as senior director of internal audit for Calpine Corp., the largest independent power producer in the United States. He said it has been an amazing opportunity with a great deal to still learn. His oldest was a member of the unique Class of 2020 and is now in college, and his twins are in the 7th grade. Jay wanted to send a big "thank you" to classmate Trace Kimble with Southwest Funding for being his mortgage broker on a recent real estate transaction. He reported that Trace made everything so easy and that St. Stephen’s alumni are always so good at their profession. Jay asked everyone to stay safe!
T.C. Waugh ’90
1990 In September, T.C. Waugh was named to the Leadership Austin Essential Class of 2021. During the year, the essential class meets monthly to discuss regional issues, enhance their community leadership skills and develop strong relationships to encourage innovative, collaborative solutions to the challenges facing our community.
1993 Ben Hoke and his family moved from Salt Lake City, Utah, to Charlotte, N.C., in the summer of 2019. His wife, Katherine, is a fourth-grade teacher at Trinity Episcopal School, and their 2-year-old daughter, Millie, is a happy camper in her new city. Ben serves as managing director with the nonprofit consulting firm Carter Global. They have been enjoying being closer to family and in close proximity to his alma mater, Davidson College. He said he hopes everyone stays healthy during what's been an unruly 2020 to date.
ALUMNI N EWS
Spartan Magazine
In Memoriam Joseph Arthur “Art” Shepperd Jr. '57 passed away on May 6, 2020. He was known for being a benevolent gentleman. He was laid to rest in his hometown of Burnet, Texas, during a private graveside service. Art was one of 13 Shepperds to board as a student at St. Stephen’s. Art, however, left Austin his junior year to attend the Sewanee Military Academy, as it was known then, in Tennessee. At Sewanee, Art was named captain of the baseball team, elected president of the Sewanee Cotillion and played varsity football. In 1958, he entered The University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He served as a licensed certified public accountant for more than 50 years. He is survived by his cherished wife of 60 years, Martha Davis Shepperd, and his two sons and their families: Ben, Jane and Eleanor Shepperd, of Austin; and Joseph Arthur “Trey” Shepperd III, and his sons, Wyatt and Wesley, of Burnet. Art found his true calling as a little league coach, leading both Ben and Trey’s teams. His anchor was his faith, and never said “no” when asked to serve as a volunteer leader with St. David’s Episcopal Church.
Derry Roberson Babaoff ’07 and Ricky Babaoff
Literacy AmeriCorps cohorts, Kelly was aware that the Food Bank would be in need of volunteers to meet the massive need in our community due to the pandemic. In less than a month, Kelly volunteered more than 100 hours with the Central Texas Food Bank!
2019 Caroline Ratliff is a marketing intern with Austin-based, Mayawell. The beverage company is known for its bubbly prebiotic tonic. Caroline is currently a sophomore at UT. Zach Taylor joined Brown's basketball team for the 2020–21 season.
Kelly Hoover ’15 at Central Texas Food Bank
2007 In June, Derry Roberson Babaoff married Ricky Babaoff. The couple was married on the campus of Asheville School in Asheville, N.C. Derry serves as the school's senior associate director of admission & director of financial aid. .
2015 Kelly Hoover '15 was featured on KXAN News last spring. As a Literacy Coalition AmeriCorps member, she serves at Mainspring Schools, working with preschoolers on early literacy. After having volunteered at the Central Texas Food Bank last January with her Texas Family
Ingrid Villarreal is a sophomore at The University of Texas at Austin and a certified yoga sculpt instructor. She teaches at UT RecSports on campus. Last spring, she created a donation-based fundraiser, Sweat X Serve, based on virtual fitness classes taught by certified fitness instructors. The effort raised support for the COVID-19 crisis. Resources generated were donated to The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School’s COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund, which provides health care professionals with essential supplies and protective equipment, helps pay clinicians and staff, assists with telemedicine, and aids with costs related to COVID-19 testing and care. As a pre-medical student, Ingrid is passionate about helping the community while doing what she loves: teaching yoga sculpt and connecting with individuals through mind, body and spirit. To learn more, go to https://sweatxserve.wixsite. com/site
Ron DeFord '65 passed away on July 10, 2020. Ron's friends describe him as larger than life. He was frequently seen sporting a "Santa" beard and Hawaiian shirt, and accompanied by his dachshunds. He loved his friends, UT athletics, golf and a good cold beer. Robert McGinnis '71 passed away on July 22, 2020, in Austin. Robert was known for his grace, cheerfulness and kindness. His friends remember him as their "go to" guy for dealing with the complexities of life. He will be missed by many in his class and the broader St. Stephen's community. Gene Cockrell ’84 passed away on Sept. 24, 2020, doing what he loved — flying.
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T H E
M A G A Z I N E
O F
S T.
S T E P H E N’ S
E P I S C O P A L
S C H O O L
Alumni Class Representatives Winter 2021
Will Brewster ’51 brewsterwilliam34@gmail.com
Meghan Alexander ’96 MAlexander@AlexanderAtty.com
Fred Heldenfels ’52 fheldenfels@gmail.com
Shannon Powers Flahive ’96 spowers1@austin.rr.com
Edna Noel Heldenfels ’53 fheldenfels@gmail.com
Gerry DeLeon '96 gerryadeleon@gmail.com
Michael Hines ’54 poppyhines@msn.com
Elizabeth Anne Sykes Rains ’96 earains1109@yahoo.com
Colin Phipps ’55 colin@phippsfarm.com
Cam Beesley ’97 leardsfool@gmail.com
Ellen McCorquodale Martin ’56 ellenk.martin@aol.com
Jared Hockema ’98 jhockema@mac.com
Ruth Wilson Witten ’57 ruthwitten@aol.com
Rebecca Hollis Diffen ’99 bdiffen@mcguirewoods.com
J.P. Bryan ’58 BryanJ@teai.com
Claire Browder ’00 clairebrowder@gmail.com
Tom Romberg ’59 tromberg@me.com
Katharine Bayer ’01 kittybayer@gmail.com
Pat Fatter Black ’60 ggpat77@gmail.com
Juliet Frerking ’01 frerking@gmail.com
Steve Jolly ’61 stevejolly@mindspring.com
Kean Tonetti ’02 stonetti@gmail.com
David Sanders ’62 rdavidsanders@msn.com
Brian Kaufman ’04 brian.r.kaufman@gmail.com
Julia Cauthorn ’63 julia@texancapital.com
Rachel Katz ’05 rpk228@gmail.com
Joiner Cartwright ’64 joiner.cartwright@gmail.com
Sarah Cromwell Sheppard ’06 sarahhcromwell@gmail.com
Arthur Wright ’64 arthur.wright@tklaw.com
Selina Strasburger ’06 selina.strasburger@gmail.com
Dianne Duncan Tucker ’65 ddtuck@aol.com
Cole Arledge ’07 cole.arledge@gmail.com
Randy Parten ’67 jrparten@parten.com
Anne Buckthal Chilton ’07 anne.buckthal@gmail.com
Robert Henderson ’68 rehenderson@nvcc.edu
Amanda Kushner ’08 amandakkushner@gmail.com
Josh Harrison ’69 JHarrisonLaw@aol.com
J.J. Botha ’09 johannbbotha@gmail.com
Dee Meador ’70 meadortx@yahoo.com
Chantal Strasburger ’09 chantal.strasburger@gmail.com
Kathryn Miller Anderson ’71 zjmiller1513@gmail.com
Carlotta Garza ’10 carlotta.garza@gmail.com
Darrell David ’72 darrell.s.david@gmail.com
Omar Yaghi ’10 omaryaghi2@gmail.com
Douglass Anderson ’73 dlalaw@hotmail.com
Ryann Young ’10 rhy9@cornell.edu
Ann Rhodes McMeans ’74 armcmeans@gmail.com
Lindsay Redman ’11 llredman93@gmail.com
Dr. Mary L. Brandt ’75 mary.l.brandt@gmail.com
Henry Sikes ’11 WHSikes1@gmail.com
Sylvia McIntyre-Crook ’75 sycrook1@cox.net
Gray Twombly ’11 Twombly.Gray@gmail.com
Dan Norton ’76 daniel@danielnorton.com
Alia Yaghi ’11 alia.yaghi1@gmail.com
Robert Ettinger ’77 robert@ettlaw.com
Yosua A. Husodo ’12 yosua.adiyasa@hotmail.com
Mark Tucker ’78 mrtucker@mindspring.com
Helen Elizabeth Old ’12 helenelizabeth1@me.com
Carroll Lively Reeser ’79 carroll@reeser.net
Caroline Pringle ’12 carolinepringle93@gmail.com
Peter Larkham ’80 peter@peterlarkam.com
Jake Politte ’12 jake.politte@rocketmail.com
Erica Peters Stafford ’81 Erica.Stafford@bvcpa.com
James Carter ’13 jamesterelcarter@gmail.com
Charlotte Stuckey Brigham ’81 charbrigham@gmail.com
Annie Nordhauser ’13 lisa.nordhauser@gmail.com
Wendy White Naughton ’82 wendy.naughton@gmail.com
Nathan Goldberg ’14 nathangoldberg@college.harvard.edu
Laura Mears Mirecki ’83 Lauralynn787@gmail.com
Jaclyn Horton ’14 jaclynlhorton@gmail.com
Suzanne Cantarino Pfeiffer ’84 SuzannePfeiffer@austin.rr.com
Jim Old ’15 jamesold1@mac.com
Libbie Walker Ansell ’85 libbieansell@gmail.com
Nick Goldreyer ’16 nick.goldreyer@gmail.com
Chris Breckwoldt ’86 cbreckwoldt@sstx.org
Allie Goldreyer ’18 allie.goldreyer@gmail.com
Catherine Hoey Randall ’87 caterandall@sbcglobal.net
Blossom Maduafokwa ’18 bdm2140@barnard.edu
Mark Rowe ’88 markrowe@henna.com
Andrew Yow ’18 david.andrew.yow@gmail.com
Jonathan Quander ’89 jdquander70@gmail.com
Wyatt Gill ’19 Wyatt.gill912@gmail.com
Joe Frisz ’90 joe.frisz@enovapay.com
Tom Guan ’19 guantomy@gmail.com
Liz Fleming Powell ’91 lz.powell@gmail.com
Greta Kastner ’19 gretakastner@gmail.com
Monika Powe Nelson ’92 giantmonsterprincess@gmail.com
Chloe Lawrence ’19 chloelawrence512@gmail.com
Davis Baldwin ’93 rdbaldwin@mac.com
Lucy Schmidt ’19 lucyschmidt88@gmail.com
Catherine Cook Weiss ’94 cmcook76@aol.com
Sophia Waugh ’20 sophiastoylewaugh@gmail.com
Seth Alley ’95 sethalley@msn.com
Lizzy Jones ’20 lizzyjonesatx@gmail.com
Ben Chan ’95 eyethump@gmail.com Hawkins Li ’95 hli3@yahoo.com Beth Cockerham Mack ’95 semack77@gmail.com Ann Strauser Palmer ’95 Annstrauserpalmer@gmail.com Rhea Benbow Thomas ’95 rheabt@gmail.com
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The classes of 1970, 2003 and 2017 need a Class Representative. If you are interested, please email Michelle Geo Olmstead at molmstead@sstx.org.
Peter Lee Ventures into Outer Space
Class Notes Submissions We encourage alumni to share personal updates with us for Class Notes. Spartan alumni are contacted by their Class Reps several times a year for news and information. For assistance contacting your Class Rep or to submit news directly by email, please contact Michelle Geo Olmstead, director of alumni relations, at 512.327.1213 x178 or molmstead@sstx.org. Class Notes also can be submitted directly online at www.sstx.org/alumni/. Select the “Stay Connected” box. We welcome high-resolution photographs with your Class Notes submission. Please send a JPG format in the largest size possible (at least 900 pixels; image 3 inches wide at 300 dpi). Please include the full names and class years of everyone pictured. Spartan magazine editors reserve the right to edit or omit any information submitted.
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Spartan Alumni Network spartanalumninetwork.com If you have not received emails from the Alumni Office recently, we may not have your current email address. Please send your information to molmstead@sstx.org so you do not miss invitations to events and news about your classmates. Thanks!
SAVE THE DATE
REUNION 2020 AND 2021 APRIL 16-18, 2021
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