TA L L U L A H FA L L S S C H O O L
ON CAMPUS MAGAZINE
CLASS OF $8.6M
college scholarships offered to graduating class
twenty twenty TOP HONORS
meet this year’s Valedictorian & Salutatorian
THE NEW NORMAL how students managed their time between online school and daily life at home
SUMMER 2020
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T H E
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NORMAL As the COVID-19 pandemic began to affect TFS and how teachers were going to be teaching the remainder of the term, assignments began to center around the national shutdown.
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As the photography teacher at the TFS Middle School, Brandi Wood, charged her students to capture life while homeschooling their “new normal.”
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The subject was focusing on how students were staying active. Students captured images of reading new books, learning to play an instrument, going on nature walks, cooking new recipes, learning to do tricks on the trampoline and how to sew COVID-19 masks. On the cover: Eli Damron, Middle School Photography Student of the Year
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“The photo of me on the trampoline represents the activities that I and everyone else have been doing over this time to keep occupied. The reason I took the picture of a phone is it represents a lot of us have resorted to electronics to do just about everything, whether it’s school, work or curing boredom. I personally think everything that gave us a new normal really helped a lot of us to have nothing but a better normal.” 1-Lily Cai, 2-Maebree Holcomb, 3-Annabelle Jackson, 4-Lilly Kate Farrar, 5-CJ Augustine, 6-Breelyn Wood, 7-Julianne Shirley, 8-Joel Bourlet, 9-Sam Ketch
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TALLULAH FALLS SCHOOL
PRESIDENT AND HEAD OF SCHOOL DR. LARRY A. PEEVY TFS ADVANCEMENT TEAM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR ADVANCEMENT Sonya M. Smith
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND MEDIA E. Lane Gresham
DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICES Brandi Wood
DIRECTOR OF SPORTS COMMUNICATION AND DIGITAL MEDIA Brian Carter
CONTENTS NEWS cover The New Normal 22 From Math Class to the Big Screen– An Unexpected Journey 26 Washington Youth Tour 26 Lessons Absorbed in the Halls of Justice 27 Future Community Leaders 33 Celebrating Family
ACADEMICS 03 Class of 2020 College Acceptances 06 Senior Reflections 08 Valedictorian and Salutatorian 09 Upper School Awards Day 10 Middle School Honors Day 21 Senior Send-off 24 Senior Class of 2020 Capstone 28 2020 Legacy 32 NHS Highlights
SPORTS 11 12 16 18 30 30 31
On the Block End-of-Year Sports Summary Cancer Bros Virtual Sports Banquet Baseball at Brevard Middle School Baseball Field Williams Named Positive Athlete DESIGNER Brandi Wood EDITOR E. Lane Gresham
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Online Together during a Pandemic
SPOTLIGHT: CLASS OF 2020
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BETTER TOGETHER 2020 GRADUATION HIGHLIGHTS
THE SAME BUT DIFFERENT TFS DYNAMIC GOLF DUO
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brian Carter E. Lane Gresham Scott Neal Jordan West Andy Diffenderfer/The Clayton Tribune
PHOTOGRAPHY E. Lane Gresham Brandi Wood Crump Photo Charles Mullis
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Better Together Better together. What a perfect way to describe the Tallulah Falls School 2020-21 academic year! Although the year brought unexpected challenges, we affirmed that we are truly “better together”. Upon hearing news of the COVID-19 pandemic, senior leadership at TFS began working immediately to address the safety of students, faculty and staff. Administrators and faculty then adjusted curriculum delivery so teachers and students could resume instruction to finish the year with success in all areas. Together, we led the way in forging a new path forward. Few other schools can offer what we have here – more than 20 college classes on campus, low teacher-to-student ratio and the latest technology. The educational foundation is firm, but it’s the intangible qualities that make our school truly unique. This goes much deeper than simply the delivery of a rigorous college preparatory curriculum as we prepare leaders for a successful future. It’s a feeling of everyone expecting excellence for all. It’s the confidence instilled in our students that they will be prepared for whatever the future holds. It’s the togetherness students, faculty and staff share because we have a philosophy of open acceptance – that feeling of caring. The TFS experience is clearly illustrated on the pages of our redesigned magazine. On Campus is the product of the Advancement Team with new personnel in place to share the story of the school in dynamic ways. This issue especially is important to the school timeline as it marks a time when everyone came together like never before. We invite you to delve into the stories of our students, including the accomplishments of the TFS Class of 2020, who earned more than $8.6 million in scholarships and were accepted to more than 130 colleges and universities. As we look to the future of our school community, we remain confident of its continued success because of the many people invested in the school mission. Highly qualified faculty and staff, parents, alumni, board members and donors are committed to TFS because they want to be a part of providing the highest quality education for motivated students. Larry A. Peevy President and Head of School 2 • ON CAMPUS MAGAZINE
CONGRATULATIONS
TA L L U L A H FA L L S S C H O O L C L A S S O F
2020
Accepted to more than 135 outstanding colleges and universities and earned scholarship offers of
$8.6 Million
CLASS OF 2020 COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES
CHOOL
2020
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Adelphi University Albany State University Anderson University Appalachian State University Assumption College Auburn University Augusta University Berry College Binghamton University Boston Architectural College Boston University Brenau University Brevard College Brown University California University of Pennsylvania Case Western Reserve University Charleston Southern University Clemson University Coastal Carolina University Columbia University in the City of New York Columbus State University Cornell University Cumberland University Dickinson College Drexel University East Tennessee State University Emmanuel College Emory University Erskine College ESIC Madrid EU Business School-Munich Fashion Institute of Technology Florida Atlantic University Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Institute of Technology Florida State University
Fordham University Furman University George Washington University Georgia College-Milledgeville Georgia Gwinnett College Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia Southern University Georgia State University Hampden-Sydney College High Point University Hofstra University Holy Family University Indiana University-Bloomington Jacksonville University Kennesaw State University Lanier Technical College Lynn University Massachusetts College of Art and Design Mercer University Miami University-Oxford New York Institute of Technology North Carolina State University at Raleigh North Georgia Technical College Northeastern University Nova Southeastern University Oglethorpe University Ohio University Oxford College of Emory University Pennsylvania State University Pepperdine University Piedmont College Pratt Institute Purdue University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rollins College Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Rutgers UniversityNew Brunswick Sacred Heart University Saint Louis UniversityMadrid Campus Samford University Savannah College of Art and Design Seton Hall University Skidmore College St. John’s University Stanford University Stetson University Stevens Institute of Technology Syracuse University Temple University The New School / Parsons School of Design The University of Alabama The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill The University of Tampa The University of Tennessee-Knoxville Three Rivers College Toccoa Falls College Truett McConnell University Tulane University Tyler School of Art and Architecture University at Albany, SUNY University of California-Davis University of California-Irvine University of California-Riverside University of CaliforniaSanta Barbara University of CaliforniaSanta Cruz University of CaliforniaSan Diego
University of Central Florida University of Chicago University of Colorado at Boulder University of Connecticut University of Connecticut, Stamford University of Denver University of Florida University of Georgia University of Kentucky University of Miami University of MinnesotaTwin Cities University of Missouri-Columbia University of Montevallo University of New Hampshire University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of North Florida University of North Georgia University of North Georgia, Gainesville University of Notre Dame University of Oregon University of Pennsylvania University of Pittsburgh University of San Francisco University of South Florida University of Southern California University of Washington University of Wyoming Voorhees College Wentworth Institute of Technology Western Carolina University William Penn University Wingate University Wofford College Young Harris College
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howcasing academic excellence while exhibiting positive character traits is nothing new for the Tallulah Falls School Class of 2020. The first TFS class in decades to celebrate graduation in an outdoor ceremony, this close-knit group of seniors gathered on June 19 to mark the end of an unparalleled academic year. Continuing the TFS tradition of intellectual achievement, the class earned more than $8.6 million in scholarship offers to more than 130 colleges and universities. Expressing the collective excitement about reuniting after several months apart, President and Head of School Larry A. Peevy addressed the graduates, families, faculty, staff and guests. “It is hard to believe that we are here together for our commencement ceremony after one of the most challenging semesters any of us have ever experienced,” Peevy said. “You have performed well, you have met the requirements for graduation and are ready to receive your high school college-preparatory diploma – congratulations on a job well done!” Both Valedictorian Sophie Alexander of Clarkesville and Salutatorian Jihee Han of South Korea delivered remarks, with Han’s message prerecorded and shown via video broadcast.
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“If this pandemic has proven anything, it is that things can change, quite literally, overnight,” Alexander said. “Tallulah Falls has allowed us, the Class of 2020, to create long-lasting connections with each other that otherwise would not have been possible.” “I don’t expect us to fix all the problems in the world and be in a history textbook, but I know that we are all going to change something in our lives and the lives of our loved ones,” Han said. “A great person is not just the one who changes the world but also the one who can make the life of the one beside you better.” TFS Board of Trustees Chairwoman Gail Cantrell delivered remarks in a prerecorded video and Dean of Students Jimmy Franklin provided the inspirational message. The class also honored the late Stephen Daniel Bowman with a bouquet of roses presented to his parents, Matt and Cherie Bowman. A perpetual scholarship has been established in Bowman’s name. During the Commencement Ceremony, seniors were recognized with 41 graduates accepting diplomas in person and the remaining 21 graduates participating through video from around the world.
class of 2020
Stephen Daniel Bowman October 16, 2001 – June 13, 2020 The memory of Stephen Daniel Bowman, a member of the Tallulah Falls School Class of 2020, will forever be etched on the hearts of his classmates.
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Brentt Reeves Cody II Class of 2020 Presidential Leadership Award recipient Hometown: Cornelia, GA Plans to attend the University of Georgia
I would say I actually differ from most of my classmates in some aspects. When I heard about my senior year being “canceled,” I was not very disappointed. I didn’t long for my last prom, field trip or even getting the chance to throw my graduation cap up in the air with all of my friends and family watching. The only thing I felt like I missed out on was the opportunity to say goodbye to all of my fellow seniors. I guess I will use this platform to finally get some closure. Like many others, I have attended Tallulah Falls School since the sixth grade. It is all I’ve ever known. It is a small, tight-knit community where the people interconnected with the school show genuine care for you as an individual. The friends I made in my first year are friends I keep in touch with still.
TFS was able to do a really cool thing recently where the administration came to the seniors’ doors with a yard sign commemorating the completion of high school. And for people like me – people who have attended all seven years – the sign showed our sixth-grade picture side by side with the one from 12th grade. It was really cool (and a little embarrassing) to see how much we have changed. We have all been molded by long nights studying, pouring our heart out on the court/field and now a global pandemic. But yet, the same ear-to-ear smile that is displayed in our sixth-grade picture, is the same one shown in our senior picture. I even think mine has grown. It did so because no matter how hard times might have gotten, I had 61 others who were right there with me, always having my back and encouraging me to keep fighting.
TFS is extremely diverse. With dozens of different nationalities and countries represented, no two of us are the same. I mean, who else can say that their high school put them in touch with lifelong friends from China, Spain and the Bahamas? It is an incredible thing all of our distinct qualities can collaborate so well and allow us to accept and better understand each other. I have grown up with you all. We’ve laughed and cried, won and lost and I wouldn’t trade it for a thing. I am so grateful for everyone who has contributed to my TFS experience. I am confident we are all now wellequipped to go out in the real world and do well. Not just to be successful, but able to do some good for those we come into contact with. Let us make it our goal to bring the “Light in the Mountains” around the globe, illuminating every place we choose to go. Peace and love to you all.
“What lies behind us and what matters compared to what lies 6 • ON CAMPUS MAGAZINE
Gabriel Temple Tonye Iluma Class of 2020 President Home Country: Nigeria Plans to attend Stanford University
I assumed a prolonged leave from school would allow me a much-needed break from thinking; instead, during these seemingly endless days, I find myself with more time to unpack the chaotic events of the year, and there definitely is a lot to unpack. I’m drawn to the evening of the last day of school, when, during the frantic packing in the boys’ dorm, a group of day students drove up to say goodbye, bringing a pack of chocolate protein biscuits (a swim team delicacy) as a parting gift. Standing outside, we hugged, shared stories and told jokes, but there was an underlying sadness – the realization we would probably never see each other again. So, in those moments of blissful lamentation, I wondered did you make the best out of this? The next day, during the dorm’s mock graduation, adorned in a flimsy green cardboard graduation cap, I gave a speech
about the inverse relationship between one’s potential and one’s achievement over the course of one’s life and urged my classmates to nurture their talents while they were worth something. Again, as I spoke, I questioned do you mean it? Finally, as my plane departed the airport and the cities of Georgia began to resemble ant colonies, I asked are you really ready to leave? While I would like to say yes to all of those questions, the truth is more complex. Recently, I read James Carse’s Finite and Infinite Games, which differentiated the ideologies of living one’s life on the continuum of obtaining results and displaying those results (finite game) and living one’s life with the goal of continuously preparing for future challenges (infinite game). As I read, I began to analyze every aspect of my high school career – from my nervous
first day in the dorms, trying to impress anyone who would watch by doing a back flip, to my last night in the dorms, getting choked up as I reminisced with my friends on hilariously awkward encounters with crushes. What game was I playing then and what game am I playing now? Over the last weeks, listening to the repetitive loop of an unoiled fan, I’ve had time to narrow down an answer: both. It’s become apparent to me that I, like most kids, approached high school with finite goals – get good grades, make some friends, have fun and graduate.
traditional graduation, I pray we allow ourselves to grow as we look towards the future in this time and be proud of our past accomplishments. So, in response to my initial questions, maybe the answers were no then, but they are a yes now, definitely a yes.
Looking back, it’s obvious that a finite viewpoint was the root of most of my problems. Maturity has allowed me to understand the futility in comparing myself to others, arguing with those who can’t see my vision and getting upset because my efforts go unnoticed; maturity has allowed me the gift of the infinite game, and while I can’t give my class a
lies before us are small within us.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson
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TFS LAUDS TOP STUDENTS Sophie Alexander of Clarkesville, Georgia is the valedictorian and Jihee Han of Seoul, South Korea is the salutatorian. “We are delighted to announce the names of the highest achieving representatives of the senior class,” said President and Head of School Larry A. Peevy. “The foundation set at TFS has prepared them well for successful futures.”
Valedictorian Sophie Alexander
Plans to attend Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta to study Biomedical Engineering It is difficult to condense countless memories into just a few sentences, but my overall impression of my high school experience is beauty in the struggle. My classmates and I now remember these days and weeks of stress with fondness and laughter, realizing though these times were tough, we got through them together.
Salutatorian Jihee Han
Plans to attend Northeastern University in Boston to study Pharmacy The past five years at Tallulah Falls School really changed me and my life. As a student from Korea, being totally new to the area and country, I was not comfortable being at a new place. I was afraid of being at a place not knowing anyone. I used to be a total introvert; however, many things changed after I met my friends and all the faculty and staff. Now I am considered a “people person.” Everyone at the school helped me through hard times, especially during senior year and I am very grateful I was able to meet all those people. 8 • ON CAMPUS MAGAZINE
AWARDS DAY 2020 TFS UPPER SCHOOL TOP HONORS Freshman – Zhigao (Henrry) Xiong Sophomore – Ava Wehrstein Junior – Maggie Jackson Senior – Cassidy Elliot
Outstanding Mathematics Students Freshman – Hannah Lundy Sophomore – Jingan Sang Junior – Brinson Hall Senior – Jihee Han
Outstanding Science Students Freshman – William (Trey) Greene Sophomore – Madison Perdue Junior – Zhiyan (Jerry) Zhou Senior – Sarah Edwards
Outstanding Social Studies Students Freshman – Seungwook (Daniel) Shin Sophomore – Flannery Hogan Junior – Cainan Yaskiewicz Senior – Samuel McAllister STAR Student Jihee Han
Georgia Certificate of Merit Jiachin Li, Baylee MacBeth, Caroline Turpin, Pengyue Wang Heisman High School Scholarship Winner Caden Griffis Habersham Co. Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award Alia Bly Habersham Co. Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Habersham Scholarship Abby Peacock
Circle for Children Scholarship Ella Cantrell
American Red Cross Scholarship Brenda Cochran
Outstanding Drama Student Donald (Whit) Fordham Outstanding Personal Fitness and Health Student Evan Prince Outstanding Music Student Zhiyang Shu Outstanding Spanish Language Student Sophie Alexander
Indian Iron Award
Sydney Coffee
Georgia Mountains and Lakes Realtors Association Scholarship Sarah Edwards
Outstanding Art Student Maggie Jackson
Outstanding Culinary Arts Student Brenda Cochran
Sarah Edwards
Habersham County Rotary Scholar Sophia Alexander
Harry Norman Realtor Luxury Lake and Mountain Scholarship Garrett Hunter
Outstanding Chinese Language Student Mei Hui De Velasco
Outstanding Character Award
The Everyday Good Scholarship Zach Corwin
STAR Teacher Beth Huebner
Outstanding Broadcasting Student Darren Fortner
President’s Leadership Award Brentt Reeves Cody II
TOP HONOR STUDENTS
Outstanding English Students
Indian Iron Award
Stephen Bowman
D.A.R. Good Citizen Award Reeves Cody Clarkesville Kiwanis Club Key Club Scholarship Alia Bly Extra Mile Award Vjera Radovic
Outstanding Upper School Day Student Award
John Nichols
Habersham Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Members Juniors Anna Paige Barrett Brinson Hall Camden Hughes Maggie Jackson Rebekah Jennings Collin Kelly Simeon Respress Samantha Stamey
Seniors Reeves Cody Samuel Dunlap Whit Fordham AJ Hayes Hayden Johnson John Nichols Abby Peacock Hunter Weyrich
Outstanding Upper School Boarding Student Award Riley Barron
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TFS celebrates Middle School
The school released the video presentation on May 20, uploaded to three platforms to ensure audiences around the world could view the program. To commemorate the eighth grade graduates, another video tribute was released on May 22. President and Head of School Larry A. Peevy and Middle School Academic Dean David Chester provided remarks for both presentations. “Despite the circumstances, this is a milestone for our middle school students and families,” Peevy says. “With great fortitude and character, our students and teachers worked hard to complete another successful year. I am proud of our middle school students and especially proud of our eighth-grade graduates for their hard work this year as they have prepared for their first year in upper school. “One of the most difficult aspects of having students and faculty working at home is the lack of connection that develops,” Chester says. “It was encouraging to see both groups take initiative and go above and beyond to work through the challenges of online learning. The end-of-year Awards Day and 8th Grade Celebration videos were a great way to reconnect and to bring a little closure to such an unprecedented year.” 10 • ON CAMPUS MAGAZINE
Scholar-Athlete Chesney Tanksley, Eli Damron TFS Great Character Athlete Molly Mitchell, Austin Ball Elijah Hornsby
Kaylin Pickett
Outstanding Fifth Grade Student
Outstanding Sixth Grade Student
Indians of the Year Julianne Shirley, Clay Kafsky Above and Beyond Award Xiaoyang Hu Physical Education Student of the Year Julianne Shirley
Caroline Smith
Dani Prince
Outstanding Seventh Grade Student
Outstanding Eighth Grade Student
Daughters of the American Revolution, Tomochichi Chapter Citizenship Awards Megan Prince, Walker Wright, Zachary Carringer, Jenna Chesser Duke TIP qualifiers Allison Bailey, Emma Barron, Taylor Cox, Raegan Duncan, Nicholas Edenfield, Chloe Erwin, Zachary Freeman, Ava Hamon, Mia Hamon, Jacenta Ibemere, Haygen James, Madeline Martin, Caroline Smith, Keeley Sorrells, Chesney Tanksley, Jedd Thomas, Victoria VerBerkmoes, Elizabeth Wanner, Jackson Wiese, Zachary Woodworth Duke TIP state recognition Jack Wiese
Ravens
ear-end traditions at Tallulah Falls School looked a bit different, but the celebratory sentiment remained the same. Instead of an in-person gathering to honor the accomplishments from the 2019-20 academic year, teachers and administrators appeared in a digital version of Awards Day.
House of the Year
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AWARD WINNERS
Sixth Grade Statewide Honors Chorus Tate Turpin, Charlie Harris, Sarah Wilkinson, Allison York All-State Chorus Caroline Smith, Jake Owensby Music Student of the Year Lily Desta Art Student of the Year Anna Reese Akers Drama Student of the Year Lilly Kate Farrar Broadcasting Student of the Year Claire Kelly Photography Student of the Year Eli Damron
Ninety-nine Tallulah Falls Middle School Students were recognized with Presidential Scholar academic status for both the fall and spring semesters. A student earns a position on the Presidential Scholar List by maintaining a 4.0-grade point average, having no major discipline issues and by accruing fewer than 15 demerits for each semester and fewer than 30 demerits for the academic year.
ON THE Natatorium construction continues at TFS
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onstruction of the Tallulah Falls School natatorium, which broke ground in April 2017, continues to power toward completion. Recent construction progress has drawn the grand opening date closer slated for early 2021. The state-of-the-art facility will feature a 10-lane pool with seating for up to 240 on the Upper School campus nestled against the backdrop of Cherokee Mountain. The natatorium will be home to the TFS competitive swim teams and will be used for interscholastic swim
competitions, physical education classes, swim lessons and other aquatic games and activities. The facility will also be open for recreational use for students, faculty and staff. “As for me and my coaching staff, we are extremely excited about the completion of the natatorium,” swim coach Rachel Nichols says. “We are one of the few schools in Georgia to have an aquatic facility on campus, and we will have one of the only indoor facilities in the area. Having a pool on campus will not only benefit the training schedule of the swim program, but it will also be a great resource for our
Natatorium digital rendering
student population.” Athletic Director Scott Neal echoes Nichols’ excitement about the new facility. “We look forward to the vast opportunities the aquatic center will provide,” Neal says. “Dr. Peevy and the TFS Board of Trustees continue to dream and fund a myriad of ways to meet the diverse needs of the TFS community.” Ron Cantrell Construction of White County is spearheading the project, bringing to life the design of architect George Hlavenka of Hawaii.
Tallulah falls school Natatorium OPENING early 2021 11
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Sports Summary The 2019-20 Tallulah Falls School athletes, coaches and teams lived the athletic mission of creating Seasons of Significance by demonstrating GREAT character, competence and competitiveness and hosting GREAT events.
• Precision rifle team member Sam Stamey was named the No.1 North Georgia spring athlete by Mountain Scoreboard. She earned a spot to the Junior Olympic National Championship and earned a Level One (Junior) Coach Certification.
Our athletes thrive in life by serving others and our community in an array of formats. TFS received the overall Georgia EMC Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award for Region 8A as well as for the sports of girls cross country, boys cross country, girls track & field and boys track and field. TFS middle school sports that received outright or tied for the Tri-State Middle School Conference Sportsmanship Award include girls cross country, boys cross country, boys soccer and girls basketball. All of this was in addition to placing 27th of 95 GHSA schools in the Georgia Athletic Directors Association Director’s Cup for Class A through the winter season. Other highlights include:
• Seven athletes lettered in three seasons while 14 more participated in the fall, winter and spring season.
• Two seniors plan to compete collegiately, others had the option to do so and other returning athletes are on the radar of college coaches. • Volleyball, girls basketball, boys basketball, girls cross country, boys cross country, girls swimming, boys swimming, bass fishing and esports all qualified for statelevel competition.
• Senior Marshall Williams received a Northeast Georgia Region Positive Athlete Award for Alternative Sport. • 60 athletes competed as dual-sport athletes. • Senior Chris Gieger earned 15 letters in his Indian career. • Nine senior student-athletes competed all seven years at TFS in at least one sport. • Numerous school records were set throughout the year. • Three alumni athletes were inducted into the second annual TFS Athletic Legends Hall of Honor. • Two TFS alumni student-athletes were inducted into the Blitz 2020 Hall of Fame – Matthew Weidner (Boys Basketball) and Kate Blackburn (Volleyball).
Various athletes earned All-Area, All-Region or All-State honors and other accolades, including:
• Middle school teams won conference championships – girls cross country, girls basketball, boys soccer, girls tennis and boys tennis.
• Blitz Volleyball Player of the Year - Katy Corbett and four runner-ups from TFS nominated for Blitz Player of the Year.
• Middle school girls and boys track & field both won their only meet, a large 10-team invite while setting six school records.
• Matthew Weidner broke the TFS basketball career 1,000 point barrier with the school scoring record of 1,390 points.
• Many middle school and varsity track and field studentathletes ended the abbreviated season ranked high in the state.
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• TFS launched an esports program. • TFS renewed the middle school baseball team. • TFS converted future soccer programs to the spring to allow for better competition and compete for a title through GHSA. • TFS joined GHSA in bass fishing as an additional competitive option. The fan experience and social media presence has progressed significantly. TFS now has a Director of Sports Communication, a growing communication, website and alum connection. Professional photography as a purchasing choice for families and live-streamed games from the courts and the fields has been added. During the pandemic, TFS promoted athletes via feature stories, coaches connected with athletes personally and varied workout systems and nutrition resources were distributed to students, athletes and staff to stay healthy and fit during sheltering.
TFS provided college recruiting resources and specific health issues information to parents, professional development was encouraged for coaches and inspiration to adapt and return even stronger was offered. TFS continued to improve facilities – electronic rifle targets, stadium concessions, bathrooms, fieldhouse renovation, running path upgrade, new pole vault pit, natatorium progress, cross country course awards platform and signs, tennis court resurfacing, enhanced equipment and training for middle school athletes, and an incredible Sports Fitness Center, featured in the Athletic Business October 2019 edition. Though the spring was like no other situation any of us have ever experienced, the TFS Tribe state-ofmind realized even more what it means to be tough, to be GREAT and to thrive in life. Scott Neal, Tallulah Falls School Athletic Director
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The Same but Different Tallulah Falls School’s dynamic golf duo push each other to greatness
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ixth-grader Maggie Jackson was forced to hit a shot from behind a tree in practice. She was nervous as teammates – including Brinson Hall – looked on. After she took the swing, the ball hit a tree and ricocheted over her head. She was mortified. She immediately took her next swing. It was the same result. Rather than get rattled she and her teammates simply laughed. “I eventually got the ball out of the woods, but I wouldn’t have traded that moment for anything,” Jackson says. “I knew then that I’d met some of my closest friends.” Fast forward five years, and Jackson of Clarkesville, who dramatically improved, and fellow Tallulah Falls School junior golfer Hall of Mt. Airy are just about inseparable. “Brinson is one of my closest friends,” Jackson states. “I think one of the cool things about our relationship is that without golf, I’m sure we’d still be good friends. Playing on a team, though, really gave both of us time to get to know each other and pull for each other. I feel her successes and her valleys as I’m sure she feels mine. Truthfully I can’t imagine my life without her.” The rising senior golfers stormed onto the varsity scene as freshmen in 2018. Currently, the dynamic duo holds or is part of all TFS golf records. Both are First Team All-State honorees. In short, they are a thread embedded deep in the DNA of Tallulah Falls School, defining what the school exemplifies: greatness in character and athletics.
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Consider this: Jackson won the Area 2 tournament as a freshman in 2018 and was third in 2019 as a sophomore. Hall was the Area 2 runner-up in 2019 and finished in the top 10 at state as both a freshman and sophomore. Golf has long been deemed an individual sport. While in many ways that’s true – one would be hard-pressed to find a more elite pairing that supports one another so greatly, even if they’re both battling for low medalist honors.
“Maggie and I have such a good friendship, we are able to encourage each other in every tournament we play in,” Hall says. “We are both aware of the competition between us, and I believe it fuels us to do better and be so close to one another. We do not let golf get in the way of our friendship, which makes for an amazing team that has each other’s backs. I am blessed to be able to have such a talented teammate that will challenge me to do better. Because of golf, I was able to gain an amazing life-long friend that I get to play the sport I love with.”
Coach Allen Campbell has had a tall task in deciding his Team MVP in each of the past two seasons. He awarded that hardware to Hall in 2019 and Jackson in 2018. “They have pushed each other since middle school,” Campbell says. “One will seem to take the lead as the No. 1 then the other will step up her game and catch back up or pass. They have continually improved from one year to the next. Each new season I tell them it will be hard to break the records they set last season and then they go ahead and do it. It has been a great experience for me as their coach to watch them progress and achieve their goals.” Tension typically surrounds such teams with such tight competition, but Jackson doesn’t allow it to creep in. “Since we’re both playing and competing for the same team, there really isn’t any tension at all,” Jackson states. “We both practice and prepare in different ways, but when we go to compete, we are both playing for each other and the team as a whole. Whether I have scored well or not, I always hope that Brinson plays her best. In any team, there needs to be some healthy competition. It only fuels us both to do our best.” Hall and Jackson might be alike in many ways, but their future aspirations are quite different. Jackson seeks a liberal arts college education with an opportunity to play golf while pursuing a career path in environmental studies. Hall prefers to play golf at a larger university and aspires to a career in international relations. Her interest in politics, foreign policy and government stems from the same draw that brought her to TFS. With Hall and Jackson returning in 2021 as seniors, the horizon is brighter than ever for TFS on the course as well as on campus.
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BROS
T F S ‘ C a n c e r B ro s’ sha re u n d e n i able bond beyond the field of play
Kale “I have found it very fascinating to have someone at school who has been through an experience similar to mine. It’s nice to know that there is someone there to talk to about things and that they can relate to your own experiences.” Kale Corbett
Cainan
“Jesus has placed another great guy in my life to walk with me through these post-treatment years. It has been a developing relationship; we said we were cancer bros! The cancer bro bond can’t be broken.” Cainan Yaskiewicz
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Louis Zamperini, an Olympic distance runner, survived a plane crash during a mission in World War II. Zamperini became a prisoner of war, surviving the odds despite experiencing brutal torture and suffering. One of the veteran’s famous quotes is one that Tallulah Falls School junior Kale Corbett says is his favorite – “If you can take it, you can make it.” Zamperini also has famously said, “I’d made it this far and refused to give up because all my life I had always finished the race.” Corbett of Lakemont is cut from the same cloth as a WWII vet. So too, is fellow TFS junior athlete Cainan Yaskiewicz of Highlands, NC. A cross country runner himself, Corbett was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at 10 years old. His parents, Tim and Brandy, both coaches at TFS, are his greatest supporters. They wouldn’t let their youngest child quit fighting. Likewise, Yaskiewicz, who plays both baseball and soccer, is a survivor of ALL after also being diagnosed at 7 years old. The duo shares a similar story that by fate has found its way to TFS. Teachers, coaches, and administrators can tell there’s something different about these
two young men who have a different light inside them. “Kale knows what pain, discomfort, and opportunity look like, so he gets others to join in the joy of being together,” cross country coach Scott Neal says. “He is a strong leader with a kind heart, respectful and grateful attitude, and tenacious competitiveness.” In other words, he just won’t give up. Corbett, a triple threat athlete who also plays basketball and golf, hopes to one day have his parents’ qualities. “During my bone marrow transplant [my parents] were always by my side and made sure I did everything to ensure a healthy recovery. On the days I didn’t feel good and didn’t want to do what the doctor prescribed, they were there to motivate me.” His ordeal as a child was quite difficult, as he was given just a 15% chance of surviving at the time. In preparing for a transplant, doctors’ orders were to quit all sports. “They said I might not be able to play sports again and this was devastating to me,” Corbett says. “It was my goal to get back to sports, back in shape, and to show the world that a little cancer wasn’t going to stop me.”
Yaskiewicz has a similar story. A limp and bruises came and went, then returned with a fever and the inability to walk. Suddenly, his life changed with the diagnoses of ALL and 98% cancer cells in his body. Within 12 days after beginning treatment, he was down to less than 5%. “Before I went into my biopsy I was very scared, but all of a sudden I heard Jesus speak to me,” Yaskiewicz says. “He said, ‘Do not be afraid! Everything will be okay.’ From that moment on I was at peace.” The similarities between the two friends extend to their desired career paths. It makes sense that both young men want to give back and turn their past darkness into a beacon of light. Corbett already knows his career path is destined for the medical field as an oncology nurse practitioner. Not surprisingly, Yaskiewicz also plans on going to medical school to train to be a pediatric oncologist. They are inspired by their experience as cancer survivors, unwilling to go down without a fight. Their bond is tight and pre-determined. For Corbett and Yaskiewicz, the light inside them stems from their experiences. It has changed their outlook in every arena of their lives.
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TFS CELEBRATES ATHLETES IN END-OF-YEAR VIRTUAL BANQUET Instead of the traditional athletic banquet held to celebrate spring sports season highlights, varsity athletic awards were presented as part of the virtual Awards Day and released via video on May 20. The video, uploaded to three platforms, made it possible for audiences from around the world to view the program. “Though our end-of-year athletic banquet was virtual, it certainly didn’t diminish our excitement to celebrate the accomplishments and honors our teams and athletes earned,” Athletic Director Scott Neal says. “The Tribe is proud of the energy, focus, and quality of performance our athletes demonstrated. The award winners represent GREAT with distinction and leave a legacy of leadership while role modeling excellence with a team mindset.” Athletic awards were presented as follows: Three-Season Sports Participants Shelby Brightwell, Veronaye Charlton, Hannah Hunt, Layne Kafsky, Reid Kafsky, Vjera Radovic, Kate Trotter, Kat Williams, Nana Amankwah, Hanwu Fang, Dan Griswold, Joe Griswold, George Ketch, David Rodriquez Three-Season Sports Letter Lucy Alexander, Abby Carlan, Emma Jackson, Macy Murdock, Riley Barron, Kale Corbett, Chris Geiger. Indian-of-the-Year Katy Corbett
Most Valuable Angler Marshall Williams Most Valuable ESports Haokun David Cheng
Indian-of-the-Year Chris Geiger
Top Shot Award Sam Stamey
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BASS FISHING Dedicated to Improvement Award Austin Zigler Coach’s Award George Ketch Most Valuable Angler Marshall Williams ESPORTS Coach’s Award Eli Higbie Seungwook Daniel Shin Most Valuable Haokun David Cheng
PRECISION AIR RIFLE Most Improved Peyton Gunn
I Am Tallulah Reid Kafsky Cainan Yaskiewicz
Coach’s Award Jackson Whittle
Indian of the Year Katy Corbett Chris Geiger
Top Shot Award Sam Stamey
TFS Scholar Athlete Sophie Alexander Gabe Iluma GREAT Athletic Character Jihee Han David Rodriguez Moreno
Athletes for a Better World Dooley Award TFS Nominees Sophie Alexander Chris Geiger Positive Athlete Georgia Northeast Georgia Region Award Marshall Williams
I Am Tallulah Cainan Yaskiewicz
GREAT Athletic Character Jihee Han
TFS Scholar-Athlete Sophie Alexander TFS Scholar-Athlete Gabe Iluma
I Am Tallulah Reid Kafsky
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As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tallulah Falls School students shifted to online learning for the second half of the spring semester. Teachers at TFS showcased their ability to change directions quickly, with student success always a top priority. Several teachers shared reflections from this new teaching and learning experience. Because my juniors were working on their Capstone research papers, I found myself meeting with them not only in a wholeclass format but also in a lot of one-on-one meets. I honestly enjoy those individual conferences because I get to work with the students on the details and the nuances of their writing while also having individual conversations about their day and their experiences. For the most part, I found my students upbeat, positive and interested in maintaining their best efforts. Their responsibilities in meeting the continued expectations of their teachers and their classes seemed to easily transition into the new online format. Kelli Bly, Upper School English
Already implementing a variety of digital tools in my classroom, my students were prepared to transition into this period of distance learning. But none of us were prepared for the void that was once filled with laughter, tough questions and the general camaraderie found in our rich learning community. I immediately missed observing my students sitting in groups, discussing and learning. Watching students via Google Meet light up and express joy at seeing and speaking with one another quickly became the highlight of my experience with distance learning. I saw the caring nature of these young men and women grow – oceans and miles strengthened our appreciation of one another built upon the bonds created at school. Dallas Barron, Upper School History, Senior Capstone
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When I look back on those days of online learning, it’s hard to believe that it even happened. I coined the hashtag #SeventhGradeStrong because I was surrounded by superheroes. The seventhgrade teachers rallied and grew stronger than ever before. We held our goals for the last nine weeks steady. When I got tired my co-workers held me up and motivated me to press on and vice-versa. I believe teachers have more of a bond today than they have ever had in history. The students were champs as well. On many occasions, while we were cheering them on, they were encouraging us. Nancy Almoyan, Middle School World History
I N T E R NAT IONA L
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SENIOR SENDOFF
ike many other graduating seniors this year, the Tallulah Falls School Class of 2020 faced sudden uncertainty. On Friday, March 13, TFS made the difficult decision to close for the foreseeable future, with the hope of
“Coronavirus did not stop our thoughtful counselors from making us happy.” Vjera Radovic, Montenegro reopening in April. We knew once the international students boarded planes headed for homes in 20 countries, the worldwide pandemic would likely prevent them from returning to campus to complete the academic year in a traditional setting. We helped the dorm students pack up, call home and make urgent travel arrangements. We embraced crying students as they fell into our arms. The students were devastated and felt as if the pandemic had ripped the rug right out from under them – they would miss senior prom, yearbook signings and graduation – those long-anticipated milestones built into the senior experience.
As dorm counselors, we were also experiencing feelings of shock, sadness and confusion. Our lives were about to change drastically but at the time we had to choose whether we would fall apart or channel our sadness into something, anything that was meaningful and good. It was my fellow dorm counselor, Darilee Sims, who mentioned the idea first. “Let’s have a mini-graduation,” Darilee said. “I’ll make hats.” “YES!” I replied. “I’m so in. I’ll make diplomas.” In a few short hours, we hosted an impromptu “dorm graduation” ceremony at the gazebo. We passed out graduation caps made of green construction paper and played “Pomp and Circumstance,” through an iPhone speaker. Dean of Students Jimmy Franklin addressed the seniors. Darilee read a beloved excerpt from “The Velveteen Rabbit” and Class President Gabe Iluma shared a few words with his classmates. Fellow dorm counselor Allie Audet spoke to the class of 2020, expressing to them just how proud she was. I announced the names of each senior and handed out the homemade diplomas as they shook Mr. Franklin’s hand. We closed our little ceremony with an original poem I wrote, which highlighted our funny memories from the year and a congratulatory word to the class of 2020.
My job as a dorm counselor is a difficult one to describe. It’s a pseudo-parent, supporter and advocate for the students whose families are thousands of miles away. The job includes, but is not limited to, moderating roommate disagreements, overseeing last-minute projects, reaching deep into my academic past to dig up knowledge of algebra, handing out bandages left and right, inviting students to sit on my couch to tell me about their day, having tough conversations with parents when a child is struggling and curling hair for a school dance. It is my job to make sure each student knows they have someone who is always in their corner. On Friday, March 13, that job appeared different from any other day – it looked like an impromptu graduation ceremony with handmade hats. 2020 has thrown us all for a loop and reminded the world that we can’t control everything. What we do have control over; however, and what we embraced on that Friday evening, was the choice to live in the moment and celebrate together. To the boarding students who are a part of the class of 2020, know that your dorm counselors love you and are so proud of what you have accomplished. Jordan West Dorm Counselor
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From math class to the big screen – an unexpected journey TFS Alum Rahel Afiley dreams in living color
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atching the “Muppets Most Wanted” movie with his daughter, Dean of Students Jimmy Franklin noticed a distinctive name in the closing credits. Rahel Afiley is not an everyday moniker; it was clearly familiar to the long-time dean of students. “I was watching a movie with Sophia and I happened to see her name,” Franklin says. “I Googled her – I knew it had to be “our” Rahel.”
Walt Disney Pictures (2011)
Afiley, a graduate of the Tallulah Falls School Class of 1992, now lives and works in Los Angeles as a freelance costume designer for
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the television and motion picture industry. Her career path didn’t take a traditional route, but it was clear to those who knew her in high school she was destined for something creative. “I didn’t realize quite that field [costume design] existed,” Afiley says. “Essentially design is math. Constructing a costume is math. I’ve always been fascinated by numbers. A lot of my passion was math. I had a wonderful math teacher in Mrs. [Linda] Harris.” And long-serving math teacher Linda Harris says she could never forget her former student. “Rahel has an inner enthusiasm for life and such a positive attitude that she could not help but be successful in whatever direction she chooses to go,” Harris says. “This direction for her sounds exciting and I would love to see some examples of what she is doing. Tallulah Falls School has another winning graduate!” After graduating from TFS, the former international boarding student enrolled at Piedmont College, where she met her
husband. Originally, she set out to study business because of her affinity for math. “I quickly realized that’s not really what I wanted to do,” she says. From Piedmont, she enrolled at the Art Institute of Atlanta. Still, she felt compelled to veer toward the business side of the arts. It wasn’t until an Atlanta fashion photographer introduced her to the world of fashion that she fully realized how to translate her gift for numbers to the field of design. “It was adult dress up really,” she says. “Telling a story through the costume is what I do.” From Atlanta, she moved to New York. “That was always part of my plan,” she says. More magazine work led to commercials, independent films and ultimately to 22 episodes of the HBO series Flight of the Conchords, where she connected with a group of creators, including high-profile director James Bobin. Bobin also directed the Muppet movies and Dora and the Lost City of Gold.
As for designing for celebrities, Afiley says working with Miss Piggy is as thrilling as one might imagine. She dressed the iconic star for two films. In the most recent movie, Miss Piggy had 25-30 costume changes, including custom footwear. To prepare for the production, Afiley shipped a model of the swanky swine’s hoof to a French footwear design house. “The office erupted in laughter,” Afiley says, of the designers upon opening the special delivery. “She’s such a fashion icon; it was fun to be able to play around with her outfits and it was a delight to work with such a talented actor with no concern for her waistline.”
Paramount Pictures (2019)
She also worked on the recent Dora and the Lost City of Gold, a movie inspired by the popular children’s cartoon series, Dora the Explorer. The movie version of Dora is an older character,
but the film directors wanted to create something similar to the familiar shorts and top ensemble but appear more age-appropriate. Afiley was up to the challenge to make the transition from cartoon to feature film and from child to pre-teen. “Creating for Dora was obviously fun,” she says. “She wears that outfit for most of the movie; to create that look was definitely satisfying.” Originally from Ethiopia, Afiley enrolled at TFS when her parents were living in Norway. One of the school’s first international
“Telling a story through the costume is what I do.”
boarding students, she credits her time at TFS as pivotal to adapting to American customs, including learning to love Lucky Charms cereal. She encourages TFS students to explore their passion and connect with classmates from across the globe. “I have a soft spot [for TFS]; it was such a warm community,” she says, with everyone on staff welcoming the young student so far away from home. Franklin loves recalling the story of seeing the former student’s name in the credits of such a high-profile production.
“I tell the story to the fifth-graders when we go to the Jim Henson exhibit at the Center for Puppetry Arts,” he says. Inspiring the students of today with stories of former students helps make dreams seem tangible, Franklin says.
Rahel’s costume design credits include: • Amy Adams • Salma Hayek • Heidi Klum • Mia Farrow • Tina Fey • Danny Glover • Ray Liotta • Tony Bennett • Ty Burrell • Kevin Spacey • Mark Cuban
Walt Disney Pictures (2014)
“Every project got a little bigger,” she says.
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CAPST SENIOR CLASS OF 2020
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TONES S
eniors brought their A-game to the Dorman Gymnasium on March 13 as they presented capstone projects for review and assessment at the annual Capstone Fair.
All Tallulah Falls School students choose a capstone topic during their junior year, job shadow or serve over the summer, then continue to research the topic during the senior year. The culminating project for the senior year requires several milestones before the final grade. Other requirements include an extensive research paper and a 10-minute speech, evaluated by community members. According to Capstone Advisor Dallas Barron, the Capstone Fair gives students the opportunity to showcase to students, teachers, staff and parents their passion, research and experience gained from their chosen topic.
This year’s class didn’t know the date of the fair was to mark the final day the group would be together on campus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Plans already in motion for the event began to shift dramatically as students were donning professional attire and polishing their remarks. “That morning started off with last-minute alterations for minimizing the number of people in the gyms, removing handshakes from the suggested greetings and having students remove all types of candy and food that was not individually packaged,”
Barron says. “Our seniors had to help us arrange additional hand sanitizing stations as they were setting up fair booths.” Later that day, school officials made the first of several notifications of schedule changes that ultimately would cancel on-campus classes for the remainder of the academic year. “They thought we had all received an extended spring break. It wasn’t until after school had dismissed that afternoon that any of us realized we didn’t truly say goodbye,” Barron says. “That Friday afternoon brought on more emotions than any of us expected.” A Sample of the 62 Topics Presented: • Whitetail Deer Conservation in the South - AJ Hayes • Ocean Pollution and Ways to Reduce It - Luke Johnson • The Downsides of Electric Cars - Caden Griffis • The Cost of Juvenile Diabetes - Taylor McAvoy • Mental Illnesses and its Effects on the Homeless Zacharias Corwin • Teenage Mental Health - Yishu (Betty) Lu • Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome - Brenda Cochran • CTE and Concussive Brain Injuries in the NFL Babatomiwa Sofela • The Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease Haokun (David) Cheng • Universal Healthcare - Mariama Bah • Traditional Chinese Medicine - Yijin (Jade) Ye • How Violence Affects Child Behavior - Samuel McAllister • Nanotechnology - Juyeong An • ADHD Medication in Schools - Lillie Free • Job Displacement from Automation - Chris Geiger • The Pilot Shortage - Hayden Johnson • Mental Health in the American Workplace Matthew Weidner • Government Corruption in Montenegro - Vjera Radovic • Gentrification - Alycia Morales • Human Trafficking in Nigeria - Gabe Iluma • Animal Abuse in Aquariums - Riley Barron • Social Media Fixation - Zhiyang (Yang) Shu • Teens Aging Out of Foster Care - Abby Peacock • Gender Inequality in Rwanda - Maik Murenzi • Animal Poaching in Africa - Kate Blackburn • Water Waste Management - Thomas Harris • Plant-Based Diets - Patrick Pearce • The Language Barrier in Healthcare - Sophie Alexander • America’s Obesity Epidemic: What’s Going On? Josh Shanks • Head Injuries in Sports - Davis Jennings 25
TFS JUNIORS SELECTED FOR WASHINGTON YOUTH TOUR T wo Tallulah Falls School juniors – Margaret Jackson and Collin Kelly were selected as delegates for the annual Washington Youth Tour to represent Habersham Electric Membership Corporation.
Habersham EMC selects two students from its service area to attend the tour, sponsored by EMCs across the nation. Jackson, from Clarkesville and Kelly, from Demorest, along with 17 other high school juniors participated in the Washington Youth Tour contest at the Habersham EMC office on March 3. The contest consisted of two parts – a written test and an interview portion. Jackson and Kelly were selected
because they made the highest combined scores. “All the students did an excellent job and we at Habersham EMC always get a renewed faith in our youth when these students show the initiative to prepare and study for ‘another’ test outside of the school arena,” says Nicole Dover, Washington Youth Tour Coordinator. Due to COVID-19, the eight-day all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., scheduled for June 18-25 was canceled.
LESSONS ABSORBED IN THE
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HALLS OF JUSTICE
xposure to real-life experiences is just one highlight of a Tallulah Falls School education. Those experiences include visits to area businesses and talks by career professionals. It has been a much-anticipated tradition for seniors to visit the Habersham County Courthouse to learn more about the judicial process. This year’s class visited on Feb. 11-12 to observe a medical malpractice case. 26 • ON CAMPUS MAGAZINE
“Allowing the seniors the opportunity to see the judicial system in action is a valuable activity,” says history teacher Dallas Barron. “As a whole, the senior class enjoyed the trip; they couldn’t stop talking about it.” TFS parent Amber Dorsey serves as the assistant to Superior Court Judge B. Chan Caudell. Dorsey welcomed the students and teachers, providing guidance for the experience.
“The students are always courteous and their courtroom demeanor is excellent,” Dorsey says.
DEVELOPING FUTURE COMMUNITY LEADERS T wo Tallulah Falls School students invest time and talent beyond the classroom through the local 4-H program. Rising freshman Lilly Kate Farrar of Mt. Airy placed first in performing arts at a recent Junior/Senior 4-H District Project Achievement for the Northeast District. Farrar wrote and performed a monologue in the competition. “Lilly Kate is tremendously talented, especially in the dramatic arts,” said County Extension Agent Andy Haygood. She also won second place for Excellent Community Service led by a 4-H member for a children’s book drive project at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville. Additionally, Farrar wrote the play staged during performing arts night, Haygood said.
“Anywhere we go, Lilly Kate is the ideal 4-H member,” he added. “She’s smart, she’s talented and she’s a good representation of what 4-H is striving for in our community.” Junior Camden Hughes of Demorest placed second in the public speaking category.
“We were very excited about that,” Haygood said. “She actually had the best demonstration score and portfolio score.”
Lilly Kate Farrar
According to the 4-H website, participants develop leadership, creativity, public speaking skills, recordkeeping and more through the program. Specifically, students pick a project area of interest, research the topic, write a presentation, and present it to others. As students become older, a recordkeeping component that promotes independent thinking, research and implementation is added. Camden Hughes
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boy scout since first grade, Tallulah Falls School senior Garrett Hunter used his enthusiasm for the outdoors to reach a lofty scouting honor. Hunter, of Boy Scout Troop No. 6 in Rabun County, noticed people in wheelchairs couldn’t get to the dock to fish at the Rabun County Recreation Department, so he turned the need into his Eagle Scout project. Beginning in late November of 2019, a three-person team took a little more than a week to complete an accessible bridge. Hunter enjoyed the outdoor aspects of the Cub Scouts and moved to the Boy Scouts at age 11. The Eagle Scout rank was
Garrett Hunter
always a goal, and a ceremony honoring his achievement was held earlier this year at Andy’s Trout Farm. “A major thing that people learn from scouting is the love for nature,” the Tallulah Falls resident says. “It teaches young men to appreciate the outdoors and respect it the way it should be.” His parents, Jill and Toby Hunter, both work at TFS. His mother is the choral and drama director and his father the maintenance manager. A member of the Georgia High School Rodeo Association, Hunter plans to study wildlife biology at North Georgia Technical College. Published with permission of The Clayton Tribune
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Kate Blackburn Alia Bly Stephen Bowman Ella Cantrell Reeves Cody Zach Corwin Sarah Edwards Lillie Free Christopher Geiger Caden Griffis Hannah Harkness Thomas Harris A.J. Hayes Davis Jennings Hayden Johnson Luke Johnson Reid Kafsky Taylor McAvoy Sidney Metcalf John Nichols Joshua Shanks Laurel Smith
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he dignified term is “legacy,” but graduating seniors refer to themselves as “lifers” – students who enroll at Tallulah Falls School in sixth-grade and attend continuously throughout middle and high school. These students bond early and welcome new classmates as the years progress. A dive into the photo archives from that first middle school photo session combined with the senior formal portrait produced a fun “then” and “now” comparison. Administrators delivered yard signs to these 22 local students. Three members of the TFS Class of 2020 reflected on the surprise deliveries. “The yard sign was a personal touch; it was nice to see my picture from sixth grade to senior year. Even though our senior year did not end the way that we thought, the house call was a nice memory to have.” Hayden Johnson
“Seeing my sixth-grade self next to the 18-year-old version on my legacy sign reminded me of how much of my life has been spent as a member of the TFS family—seven years, precisely. Within those seven years, I was able to discover my personal and educational passions, recognize a handful of unforgettable role models and garner excitement for the future.” Alia Bly “Nothing could have really prepared me for seeing my sixth-grade self blown up on a yard sign next to my senior photo. The comparison was weird because I had changed so much; it made me realize how quickly my time at TFS had gone by, but I also realized how I had developed as a person at the same time.” John Nichols
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TFS senior commits to play baseball at
Brevard College Pictured from left: (mother) Jennifer Jennings, (sister) Sarah Jennings, Davis Jennings, (sister) Rebekah Jennings, (father) James Jennings
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allulah Falls School senior Davis Jennings of Clarkesville on April 2 signed a letter of intent to compete in baseball for the Brevard College Tornados (NCAA Division III – USA South Athletic Conference) in Brevard, NC. “We are very excited to have Davis as a Tornado,” says Brevard College baseball coach Mike Victory. “He is a high motor kid and I think his best baseball is still in front of him. Davis is going to have a great career at Brevard and will be a leader in the program as we continue to push for a USA South Championship.”
“Davis has played a lot of baseball over the years and worked hard to become the player he is now,” Wilcox says. “I am very happy for him, as well as his family, and look forward to seeing him play at the collegiate level.” President and Head of School Larry A. Peevy expressed his pride in Jennings. “The TFS family is always pleased when one of our studentathletes makes it a
TFS baseball coach Mark Wilcox has worked with Jennings during his high school playing career.
MIDDLE SCHOOL BASEBALL FIELD
personal goal to compete at the next level,” Peevy says. “We look forward to watching Davis make his mark on the baseball program at Brevard.” Athletic Director Scott Neal said Jennings has been highly engaged and been a significant contributor to the baseball program throughout his time at TFS. “We are happy for him and proud of his dedication, hard work and team mentality,” Neal says. “Furthering his education and his playing career at Brevard College will bring many opportunities for him to continue to make GREAT contributions.” “Baseball has always meant so much to me,” Jennings says. “I am blessed to have parents and grandparents that were always willing to get me where I needed to be. My coaches are always there for me if I want to get better or need advice. Thank you to all my friends and family for being there for me.”
TFS has broken ground on the construction of a new middle school baseball field, located just behind the Higgins Baseball Complex on the Upper School campus.
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Positive Athlete WINNER
MARSHALL WILLIAMS
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allulah Falls School senior Marshall Williams of Toccoa was named Positive Athlete by The Positive Athlete for the Northeast Georgia Region. Williams, a founding member of the TFS bass fishing team, was the honoree for the “Alternate Sports” category. “It’s very hard to stay positive in competitive bass fishing because of the constant ups and downs that challenge you mentally, but seeing the good out of every situation can turn your whole day around for the best,” Williams says.
A competitive angler since age 10, Williams decided early he was going to earn a scholarship to fish in college. While competing regularly against approximately 200 teams in this rapidly growing sport, he has finished ranked in the top 10 and top 20 three times. He has qualified and competed in three state championships and his fourth state championship in July. In May 2019, Williams signed with the Emmanuel College Lions and he will be competing in the FLW Yeti College Series and the B.A.S.S. Carhartt Series.
“As a founding, positive, and influential member of TFS bass fishing, Marshall has always reflected the type of GREAT character that Positive Athlete Georgia seeks to celebrate,” Athletic Director Scott Neal says. “He leaves a fishing legacy, but more importantly, a memory of the inherent values of contributing to the life of his team, sport, and school. We appreciate his positive influence and are proud of him and his coaches!”
TALLULAH FALLS SCHOOL WINS
COOPERATIVE SPIRIT SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD FOR REGION 8-A
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allulah Falls School is the recipient of the Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award for Region 8-A. This honor was given out by the Georgia High School Association and sponsored by GEMC. Also, the following sports were recognized by Region 8-A coaches for significant sportsmanship: girls cross country, boys cross country, girls track & field, and boys track & field. “We appreciate being recognized by Region 8-A for demonstrating our athletic ideals of GREAT character, tenacious competition, and hosting GREAT events,”
says Athletic Director Scott Neal. “We feel genuine service strengthens the ideals of community, improves overall performance, shines the light of Tallulah Falls School and is a foundation to a Season of Significance.” Student-athletes, fellow students, school staff, parents and event spectators are recognized for the sportsmanship they display. The award is not only a school honor but a community honor as well. The GHSA region schools select winners based upon sportsmanship demonstrated throughout the school year. 31
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embers of the Tallulah Falls School Chapter of the National Honor Society led the way in community service during the 201920 academic year. According to NHS faculty advisor Terri Bogan, officers Abby Peacock, Alia Bly, Sarah Edwards, Sophie Alexander and Jihee Han were especially invested in the program’s success. This year, Bogan says, the chapter coordinated several high profile projects: • Members moved the Used Uniform Sale to the Upper School Campus, opening a new location in the Circle Building. • Members raised funds to purchase a refillable water bottle station for the classroom building in order to decrease single-use plastics on campus. • Members purchased gifts for a Rabun County family at Christmas. • Chapter member John Nichols organized a fundraiser for the animals affected by the wildfires in Australia, sending $1,000 to the Steve Irwin Animal Sanctuary.
Senior Alia Bly of Clayton earned a prestigious National Honor Society scholarship, sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the parent organization of NHS. Bly was one of the semi-finalist winners from Georgia, selected from thousands of applicants. Every state in the U.S. is represented among the winners, along with the District of Columbia and our overseas chapters. These students, all members of the class of 2020, received a $3,200 award.
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allulah Falls School to host sixth annual Twin Rivers Challenge Cycling event, raises funds for student scholarships. The premier cycling event returns to Northeast Georgia this fall. Hosted by Tallulah Falls School, the Twin Rivers Challenge is set for Oct. 24.
Twin Rivers Challenge Cycling event to benefit student scholarships October 24 • 9 a.m. Multiple routes begin/end on TFS campus $35 includes T-shirt, post-ride meal 32 • ON CAMPUS MAGAZINE
With the leaves inching toward peak color on the fourth weekend of October, this is the perfect time to visit the region known for its scenery and hospitality. TFS extends a warm invitation to cyclists across the southeast to experience the Twin Rivers Challenge, with route details to be released soon.
The event begins and ends on the campus of the school. All riders are treated to a post-ride meal and a T-shirt is guaranteed with registrations received through Oct. 8. Register @ active.com
TFS names Assistant Head of School Tallulah Falls School Middle School Academic Dean David W. Chester, Jr. is taking on a new role for the 202021 academic year. In addition to his leadership role at the middle school, Chester will add assistant head of school to his job responsibilities. This summer, Chester is marking two decades with the school, having served in administration, student life, athletics and, for the past decade, as the academic dean at the middle school. Chester also chaired the SAIS accreditation team for the past three visits. Most recently, Chester has led the risk management team overseeing the school’s response to COVID-19.
“It has been a pleasure watching David’s leadership skills evolve in the 14 years I’ve worked with him,” said President and Head of School Larry A. Peevy. “His commitment to our learning community is tremendous and I look forward to working with him as we embark on another stellar academic year.”
Originally from the Thousand Islands region of New York, Chester moved to Georgia in 1991 to attend Toccoa Falls College. He and his wife Susan, a nurse, are the parents of five children.
Chester says he looks forward to serving the TFS community in an expanded capacity. “For the past 20 years, I have enjoyed being a part of TFS growing into something very special,” Chester says. “I am excited and blessed to be in a role that will be a part of continuing that process.”
David W. Chester, Jr. Assistant Head of School Middle School Academic Dean
Celebrating Family
It’s easy to see that Tallulah Falls School employees love this learning community. Each year at post-planning, faculty and staff celebrate milestone employee anniversaries.
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YEARS CASEY BARRON
WHITNEY CALLOWAY
BRYAN FREEMAN
CHANTAL GOURLEY
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BETH HUEBNER
WENDY JACKSON
KATIE KEISTER
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CARRIE LAYER
CAROL MADDEN
SANDY MARTIN
JAY MOSS
MATT HEYL
RACHEL MCCLAIN
JACOBI SHIRLEY
20
JANE SHOEMAKER
YEARS
BETH CRUZ
WAYNE FOWLER MELODY HENDERSON
TOM TILLEY
CAROLYN WELCH
25 YEARS
DAVID CHESTER
RANDY MORRIS
DUSTIN ROGERS
33
NON-PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE
TALLULAH FALLS SCHOOL
PAID
P.O. Box 10 Tallulah Falls, Georgia 30573
PERMIT #82 GAINESVILLE, GA
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
Parents of alumni: If this issue is addressed to your child who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please notify the Executive Director for Advancement of the new mailing address at (706) 839-2021 or sonya.smith@tallulahfalls.org.
WALK OF HONOR Tallulah Falls School Natatorium Commemorative Brick Project
Support the mission of Tallulah Falls School and become a part of its rich and colorful history by purchasing a brick paver for the Walk of Honor. Proceeds from commemorative brick sales will be used exclusively for scholarships for TFS Students. • Convey appreciation to a special GFWC-GA club or member • Remember a loved one
• Express gratitude to a special classmate • Recognize a special graduate • Recall a meaningful event or team
• Pay tribute to a favorite faculty or staff member • Honor a veteran or first responder for their service
Learn more and purchase your brick by September 30, 2020 at tallulahfalls.org/buyabrick
