The C&G Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School 805 Mount Vernon Highway Atlanta, GA 30327 May 2021 Volume 9, Issue 3, Senior Edition thecrimsonandgold@gmail.com
LEAVING The NEst 2021
The C&G Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School 805 Mount Vernon Highway Atlanta, GA 30327 May 2021 Volume 9, Issue 3, Senior Edition thecrimsonandgold@gmail.com
The C&G staff aims to be honest, accurate and accountable as they convey news, ideas, events and opinions that are relevant to the Holy Innocents’ community, including but not limited to students, faculty, staff, parents, administrators, and prospective families. C&G aspires to publish complete and accurate coverage through journalistically responsible, ethically reported and edited content that values diversity of perspectives.
STAFF
MAGGIE BELENKY Editors-in-Chief MADDIE POCH ZAK KERR Managing Editor GRAYSON COLLIER Staff Writers AARON JORDAN ALEX NEWBERG ZAYNAH PRESTON MARINA QUINTERNO BROOKS SCARBOROUGH ANDREW KELLER Contributing Writers PARKER MILES DUNN NEUGEBAUER
LETTER out
DANIELLE ELMS Adviser
After a year of teaching our staff how to use InDesign over Zoom, we are finally publishing our last issue as editors-in-chief. Our four years on staff together have culminated in a unique year: hybrid school, social-distancing, mask-wearing, and vaccinating have been staples of our final two semesters at HIES. Our staff has weathered long nights in the Journalism Room working to meet deadlines, a cancelled trip to the Big Apple, and countless debates about whether cereal is a soup. We’d like to think that we’ve left a mark on The C&G in ways other than the toy car hidden in the ceiling. Through our work, we’ve interviewed, photographed, designed, edited, and explored numerous individuals within our community and beyond. It’s been an honor to serve HIES in this capacity, especially since both of us have grown together as Alpha Omegas. As we both prepare for our separate journeys in college, we know that The C&G will continue to provide valuable information and insight for the HIES community. We are proud to announce that Alex Newberg will serve as the editor-in-chief of The C&G for the 2021-22 academic year. His writing and editing abilities are exemplary, and he will lead his staff with his work ethic and passion. Lastly, and with the most difficulty, we must say our goodbyes to Mrs. Elms. Thank you for being our mentor, friend, and support system these past four years. You’ve been our adviser in parts of our lives that extend beyond Journalism, and we are forever grateful.
Maggie Belenky Co-Editor-in-Chief
Maddie Poch Co-Editor-in-Chief
CONTENTS
4
NEWS
Senior Map | 4
Senior Survey | 6
10
BALANCE OF EXCELLENCE
Service | 12
Athletics | 14 Arts | 16 Hobbies | 18 Academics | 20
FEATURES Tassel Turner | 20
Signed Athletes | 22 Artist Spotlight | 28 Dorm Essentials | 32 21 Pieces of Advice | 34 Global Capstone | 36 2021 Alpha Omegas | 38
42
22
Thank You, Mrs. Elms | 40
LETTER in
OPINION
Senior Statements | 42 Senior Staff Editorials | 44
Freshman year– unapologetic, opinionated, and outspoken. I had just entered HIES as a starry-eyed 14-year old looking to make my splash. Since 2016, my love for politics, economics, and philosophy had been clear for all to see, but it was nothing more than a mere hobby. I had no medium to express my beliefs, no forum to explore my values. Then, I discovered The C&G. Though I primarily served as the resident contrarian, there was something uniquely motivational in knowing that my opinion articles would be published for the whole community to read. This inspired an intellectual journey, a transformation of sorts. The C&G fostered my growth as a writer, a student, and most importantly, a person. My perspective has matured. As The C&G prepares for the next chapter of our journey, I intend on taking the role of Editor-in-Chief next year to its fullest meaning. Though I will obviously play the role of reviewing the content published in our prestigious magazine, I will also work as the “Chief” of our staff, helping to lead our staff writers to produce quality work– a true team effort. As for the readers, my goal is to continue platforming newsworthy stories that the school community not only wants to hear but also needs to hear. I do not intend on coddling the reader’s mind. Discomfort can often lead to growth, so I will do my best to stimulate fruitful conversation on campus. I commend the past leaders who have furthered this program, and I simply hope to make you all proud.
Alex Newberg Editor-in-Chief
THE CLASS 4 | NEWS
MADDIE POCH, co-editor-in-chief
ALABAMA
FLORIDA
Emma Bell Kate Bell Whit Close Matthew Fierro
Aidan Diaz Christian Padgett
Auburn University
Kate Goggans Eliza Gregory May Harvey Ashton Lee Lauren Leonard Jack McCloskey Murphy McMenamy Mac Mitchell Hayes Reifenberger Christopher Scott Elizabeth Seay Maddy Sudlow Conor Swennumson
Samford University Sophie Corts
University of Alabama William Brown Eric Francis Scarlett Smith
CALIFORNIA
California Institute of the Arts Christina Carlos
Florida State University
University of Florida Jack Gregory
University of Miami Grace Cate Spencer Pearson Madeleine Rojas
GEORGIA
Georgia College Cierra Foster
Georgia Institute of Technology Charlie Bahin Sarai Jackson Robert McDonald Gabbie Meeks Maddie Poch Melina Sharp Regan White
Georgia Southern University Paige Collins
Georgia State University Neo Becerra-Ramirez Matt Hoffman
Loyola Marymount University
Kennesaw State University
University of California Irvine
Savannah College of Art and Design
Amanda Hausmann
Jay King
COLORADO
Shorter University
Savannah Warrick
University of Colorado Boulder Iris Kase
Landon Kardian
TyQuann Alexander
University of Georgia Paige Asarch Caroline Belisle Ansley Betts Charlsie Birkel Kenidi Cook Caroline Cooper Anna Dolive Jon Domescik Lane Estes Ellen Goetz Matthew Goldberg Drew Herman Hannah Herman Connor Jensen Bo Maxwell Morgan McGrotty Laney Noble Devin Rubin Isabelle Skid Paddy Smith Clarke Spingler Sarah Sullivan Caitlyn Surdykowski Rachel Suttle James Watson Mary Anna Wearing
ILLINOIS
Bradley University John Davis Bogart
North Central College Sam Barton
Northwestern University Rachel Utz
INDIANA
Indiana University Bloomington Libby Little Madeleine Miklovic
Purdue University Griffin Collier
KENTUCKY Centre College Nathan Weaver
University of Kentucky Caroline Harper
LOUISIANA
Louisiana State University Renee Davis Israel Evans
MAINE
Bowdoin College Eli Carlson
MICHIGAN
University of Michigan
Caroline Berkey Arin Francis Charlie Gilcreast
MISSISSIPPI
Mississippi State University Marshall Nichols
NEW YORK
Cornell University Annie Parker
Fordham University Eva Patenaude
NORTH CAROLINA Davidson College McLean Hamer
Duke University Kate Reddy
North Carolina State University Caroline Causey
SS OF 2021 THE C&G | 5
1
1 3
1
3
2
3 1
3
3
2
0
4-6
1
7-10
2-3
11+
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Logan Jackson Ellie Vail Maddie Whitaker
OHIO
Miami University Harrison Huller
PENNSYLVANIA Drexel University Gaby Diamonon
Lafayette College Michael Zarrillo
Robert Morris University Alex Pearson
4
2
1
21
3
6
2
NUMBER OF SENIORS
3
40
6 6
*Based on data from 117 of 136 reporting seniors updated April 27, 2021
SOUTH CAROLINA TEXAS Clemson University Kate Huesken Julia Knight
Furman University Maggie Belenky
University of South Carolina
Southern Methodist University Drew Bayne Jack Joyce
Texas Christian University Rachel Patton Gracie Rankin
Kate Gahlhoff Clark McArthur
VIRGINIA
TENNESSEE
Hayden Puett
Belmont University
University of Virginia
Will Feinberg
Virginia Polytechnic and State University
University of Tennessee
Addie Gaudet
Ashley Mitchell
Washington and Lee University Ann Riley Huber
WASHINGTON, D.C. American University Jules Ford
Georgetown University Tyler Fuller
The George Washington University Andrew Keller
WISCONSIN
University of WisconsinMadison Gordon Olim
6 | NEWS
SENIOR SURVEY
ZAK KERR, managing editor
design, MADDIE POCH, co-editor-in-chief
Which year of high school was the hardest for you socially?
Which year of high school was the hardest for you academically?
12% Senior
What is your gender?
12% Freshman 36% Freshman
20% Junior
30% Male
14% Sophomore
32% Senior 32% Sophomore
What is your sexual orientation?
42% Junior What is your political ideology?
4% Bisexual 2% Questioning (unsure)
0% Other
70% Female
Are you happy with your college choice for next year? 6% No 4% I don’t know
34% More conservative 0% Gay or lesbian (homosexual)
50% More liberal 16% Moderate
94% Straight (heterosexual)
90% Yes
Do you feel academically prepared Do you feel emotionally prepared for Have you ever been in love? for college? college? 12% I don’t know 8% I don’t know 10% I don’t know 42% Yes 10% No
A
+
24% No
10% No 50% No
74% Yes
80% Yes
78% Yes
What do you believe you have developed the most while at HIES? A love of learning
Have you received a COVID-19 vaccine? 2% Prefer not to say
Overall, how would you rate your high school experience?
20%
Respect for self and others
66%
Faith in God 0% A sense of service to the world community
14%
*Based on 50 participating seniors
A (90-100%)
B (80-89%)
C (70-79%)
F (<69%)
THE C&G | 7
COLLEGE SURVEY 18.03% Unsure
Did you apply as test optional to any college or university?
How many colleges did you apply to?
Are you planning to study abroad at your college or university? 65.57% Yes
44.26% No
16.39% No
55.74% Yes
18.03% 27.87% 39.34% 11.48% 1.64% 1.64% 3 or 4-5 6-8 9-11 12-15 More less than 15 Do you plan on pursuing a degree beyond a Bachelor’s degree?
Are you planning on participating in Greek life?
Do you plan on taking a gap year?
18.03% No
70.49% Yes
67.21% Yes
26.23% Unsure 6.56% No
11.48% Unsure 100% No Are you attending a college or university that one of your parents or siblings attended? 19.67% Yes
Are you receiving a merit-based scholarship from your college or university? 8.2% Unsure
36.07% No
13.11% Social Life 27.87% Academics *Based on 61 participating seniors
55.74% Yes
Which of the following describes your housing situation?
22.95% 13.11% Living Location with Random Roommate on Campus
6.56% Arts + Humanities
18.03% Other 1.64% Undecided 11.48% Social Sciences
80.33% No
What factor MOST influenced your college decision? 4.92% Other 21.31% Cost 9.84% Athletics
What is your intended major category at your college or university?
70.49% Living with Chosen Roommate on Campus
36.07% Business
16.39% Science, Math, + Technology 9.84% Health + Medicine Has COVID-19 influenced your college decision in any way? “Yes... Geographically.”
“Cost.”
“Not really.” “Nope!”
3.28% Living Alone on Campus 4.92% Living Off 8.2% Unsure of Campus
“Yes, I am going to a school that I had never considered before, but I’m so excited about it now.”
“Yes. I refuse to attend a school that is not in person next year.”
8 | BALANCE OF EXCELLENCE
BALANCE OF EXCELLENCE
design: MAGGIE BELENKY, co-editor-in-chief
THE C&G | 9
cover: MADDIE POCH co-editor-in-chief
With highly accomplished athletes, artists, scholars, and stewards of service, the class of 2021 truly embodies the motto “Balance of Excellence.” The following pages feature students who devote themselves to balanced excellence in these five categories: service, athletics, arts, hobbies, and academics. Not only will the class of 2021 go down in history for weathering a global pandemic, but also because of their diverse and exceptional repertoire of skills.
10 | BALANCE OF EXCELLENCE
G
iving a presentation to a CEO seems like the work of an entrepreneur rather than work of a high school student. However, as a junior, Maddy Sudlow took on this task to secure a corporate sponsorship from Arrow Exterminators for her fundraising efforts for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Two of Sudlow’s grandparents fought long battles with blood cancers, and her personal investment in the cause led Sudlow to raise money for the research and treatment of these diseases. At the end of the seven-week fundraising period, Sudlow raised over 37,000 dollars–– more than any other individual involved with LLS––and earned herself the Student of the Year Award. Sudlow also fundraised to secure upwards of 100,000 dollars of donations. “It was really just cool for us all to be able to work together for one cause and, at the end, to see the result of how much our hard work paid off with the amount of money that we had all raised together,” Sudlow said.
MADDY SUDLOW
Young Life offers another opportunity for Sudlow to give back to her community. When she first came to HIES in seventh grade, Sudlow joined Wildlife, YoungLife’s middle school program. Now, Sudlow serves as the co-president of YoungLife with Rachel Patton ‘21. Sudlow will attend Auburn University, and she looks forward to serving her college community in the fall of 2021. “Being a YoungLife leader would be really meaningful to me,” Sudlow said. “Being able to give back to people in my college town would be pretty awesome.”
Service A
ccording to James Watson, “Servant leadership is helping those around you through great experiences and constant support.” Through his service to the HIES community in his role as executive student council president, Watson has embodied this idea every day of his senior year. Since the sixth grade, Watson has served in HIES student government in positions ranging from treasurer to class president to executive vice president. Watson has invested time and effort in his various roles within student council with one main goal: to make people smile. “Sometimes school can be boring,” Watson said. “I just want people to have something to switch it up, some sort of activity, something for people to be excited about.” Through seasonal spirit weeks, dodgeball tournaments, and daily announcements, Watson undoubtedly gives the HIES community plenty of reason to smile. Giving the community activities to anticipate has been a significant challenge with the numerous safety measures COVID-19 demands. Despite the unprecedented obstacles he has faced in his role, Watson remains diligent in his efforts to provide the best experience for HIES Upper School students. Using spare moments throughout the day, Watson makes the most of “many, many small interactions to make sure everything’s running smoothly.” Beyond the service and leadership he offers the HIES community, Watson also actively aids the Atlanta area through organizations including Horizons Atlanta, Sterling Estates Retirement Community, and Trees Atlanta. After graduating, Watson hopes to bring smiles to students at the University of Georgia: “I just want to give back and add to the community as a whole.”
JAMES WATSON
THE C&G | 11
I
ncredibly curious, consistently conscientious, and profoundly contemplative, Clark McArthur has always strived to find ways to give back to his community. And to McArthur, community service is a requisite duty.
“Communities are designed to uplift and empower the people within them. And once your community has helped you, I believe you have a duty to give back so that [the community] can help more people in the present and the future,” McArthur said. Although McArthur’s portfolio of service is extensive, and the number of hours he has logged are impressive, he is not motivated by self-aggrandizement. Instead, McArthur’s motivations are far more profound. “I’m motivated by the belief that the human race needs to become closer as a whole. And I feel like I need to do something about it,” McArthur said. Through his participation in the Young Men’s Service League, McArthur has been able to participate in a wide variety of service projects. But most memorable was his participation in Special Pops Tennis -- an organization where McArthur played tennis with intellectually disabled children. “I’m not a tennis player. But going out onto the court and playing with these kids, who have autism or Down syndrome, was really powerful to me because they loved it, and they really appreciated me. I learned a lot and we grew together,” McArthur said.
CLARK MCARTHUR
McArthur will be attending the University of South Carolina Honors College, where he will be pursuing international business. And it is through his involvement in international business that McArthur hopes to expand the scope of his service to the community to transcend borders.
“Letting go does not mean not caring about things. It means caring about them in a flexible and wise way.”
-Jack Kornfield
S
ervice is not just an act of charity for Sophie Corts. It is a way of life. Corts has been a member of the National Charity League (NCL) since she was in seventh grade. As a mother-daughter organization, NCL has offered Corts and her “biggest role model” to nurture their close relationship through acts of service. “Being able to serve with her was just something I loved doing,” said Corts. Last year, she served as president of NCL and other service leadership roles. Although Corts runs a busy schedule while currently holding a leadership position at Buckhead Church and working part time, she prioritizes time with family, “I go home everyday for lunch and eat with my grandparents...and I eat dinner with my family. I love my family.” Corts has also established familial bonds whilst volunteering with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA). “There was a kid who we’ve been doing CHOA bingo’s every Wednesday night all of summer since seventh grade… And when I came back for tenth grade, he had passed away and that was very difficult for me... I felt like he was a little brother,” said Corts. One of Corts’s greatest accomplishments throughout servicing her community has been the money she has raised for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS). Having raised over $500,000 for LLS, she is part of the leadership team and the recipient of a scholarship from the organization’s president. Corts will take all these transformative experiences with her as she begins her college journey at Samford University on a service scholarship, double majoring in marketing and entrepreneurship.
SOPHIE CORTS
12 | BALANCE OF EXCELLENCE
H
ayden Puett has always been an active spirit. “Starting in 3rd or 4th grade… I would wake up really early… start running. I figured I should get some exercise,” Puett said. Starting both her running career and, subsequently, her tennis career in middle school, Puett soon thrived as a dependable, key asset– but not without struggle and tremendous effort. “I would not describe myself as a natural athlete,” Puett said. Over the course of her high school athletic career, it has taken tremendous mental acuity and physical dedication to achieve the level of competition she has. This has enabled her to play an essential part in securing HIES athletics milestones, including back-to-back-to-back middle school cross country championship titles as well as contributing to deep runs into the girls’ tennis tournament. “With running and tennis, they are both team sports… but you can succeed individually,” Puett said. This balance between the opportunity for self-growth and the social, “team” aspect of both sports has always appealed to her. In addition to her athletic prowess, Puett juggles a challenging academic curriculum, a strict devotion schedule (beyond the typical Sunday church attendance), and ample service projects. As Puett looks forward to college and beyond, she is confident that good things are in store: “I trust in the plan God has for my life,” Puett said. And if her achievements thus far are any indication, her faith is well-placed.
HAYDEN PUETT
As Puett heads off for Charlottesville to further her academic career in college, her athletic career will continue informally– you will likely find her running around grounds in the fall.
Athletics B
asketball is just a silly and mindless sport for jocks in the eyes of some people, but to Justin Wilson– it is so far from that.
“Growing up I was always in the gym around my brothers who played… it was second-hand nature for me to pick up the Basketball” Wilson said. First starting his career at the tender age of 7, Wilson quickly fell in love with the game. “It gave me a chance to get away from reality… to be in my own world” Wilson remarked. He emphasized that in Basketball, he, in great part, is in control of his own outcome. Though his teammates are important to the overall success of the team’s season, he is able to individually improve his own skill set through unwavering dedication and hardwork. Wilson was quick to clarify that school comes ahead of Basketball on his list of priorities. “School is the priority. Though it sounds funny to say, without school, you won’t be able to play.” And as such, Wilson strives to succeed academically by focusing on his grades. While balancing his rigorous Senior year schedule, Wilson contributed as the starting point guard, leading the team to a Regional Championship victory and the Runner-up title in the State tournament. As Wilson continues his deliberations over school for next year, he continues hoping for the opportunity to walk-on. And we here at HIES are all certainly rooting for him.
JUSTIN WILSON
THE C&G | 13
H
IES star offensive tackle and defensive end, Golden Bear number 78, Mac Mitchell has been striding across the football field since as young as eight years old. Mitchell began his football career on the fields of the Northside Youth Organization (NYO). After playing for NYO, Mitchell’s family moved to Memphis. Despite the move, Mitchell remained undaunted and, instead, became only more dedicated to football. When Mitchell’s family moved back to Atlanta, he joined the HIES football team for middle school. Mitchell played throughout all of middle school and would join the junior varsity and varsity team for high school. Throughout Mitchell’s time on the team, HIES has shattered numerous records. “Last football season, the 2019 season, was very memorable—specifically, the state championship when we won 42 to 41. The next week after that, we went off to Wesleyan, one of our biggest rivals, and we beat them 31 to nothing,” Mitchell said. While Mitchell admits that “playoff games can always be a little nerve-racking,” he uses AC/ DC to calm himself before big games. In addition to his use of hype music and his steadfast commitment, Mitchell most credits his football achievement to “putting in the hours in the weight room and simply putting in the necessary time.”
MAC MITCHELL
As Mitchell departs for Auburn University, of which he has been a “lifelong fan,” he will be leaving football behind -- for now -- to focus on his academics. But he will always cherish the memories and valuable relationships with teammates and coaches alike that football has made possible.
“You Are Never Too Old To Set Another Goal Or To Dream A New Dream”
-C.S Lewis
C
harlsie Birkel’s athletic history is a tale of two sports: softball and basketball. The team player is hard-pressed to choose a favorite sport, but both of her athletic endeavors have led to lasting friendships. Kennedy Suttle ‘19 and Hollis Gotlieb ‘19 are both role models and friends for Birkel. Beyond excelling athletically, these girls set an example in their character and work ethic. Birkel recalls Suttle diligently beginning a statistics assignment after her basketball game when most of her team watched the boys basketball game that followed. “I just remember thinking, she really has her priorities together,” Birkel said. “She didn’t have much time to do homework, and so she would find little gaps when she could do it.” In her senior year of high school, Birkel finds herself now serving her younger teammates as a “maternal” figure. “A lot of people came to me for non-basketball related stuff, and they would just talk to me about what’s going on in their personal life,” Birkel said. “I would just give them my advice.” Significant successes accompanied Birkel’s personal growth and mentorship in her athletic career. Birkel aided the girls basketball team in winning back-to-back state championship titles, and she ensured the softball team had a deep run in the playoffs each year. Her next four years will be spent at the University of Georgia, and Birkel is considering playing sports at the club or intramural level within her college community.
CHARLSIE BIRKEL
14 | BALANCE OF EXCELLENCE
A
n average day in the life of Caroline Causey revolves around the HIES STEM building. Since Causey began high school, she was passionate about the STEM classes HIES offers. She was drawn to these classes, because she could apply what she learned to real-life scenarios. Since her Sophomore year, she involved herself in various, rigorous courses like engineering, computer science, and data structures, but physics was her favorite. “The people in it are so kind and Mr. Boltri... makes the environment really fun… [he] is like one of our friends.” At the end of sophomore year, Causey attended a leadership and engineering Summer Program at Berkeley College. “I was interested in engineering, but there are many branches and I didn’t know which one I wanted to go into.” Caroline has a lot on her plate. Though serving as President of SNHS, editor of the yearbook, and Girl Talk leader, she remains able to manage it all. Causey will move on to North Carolina State University as a member of the Park Scholarship Program. “I have become obsessed with the program… I get to connect with a group of kids who are so passionate about their own unique thing.”
CAROLINE CAUSEY
Causey defines success as “making an impact on not just yourself, but seeing how your success positively influences others and the community.” Hopes are high that Caroline Causey will positively influence her peers as she enters college in the Fall.
ACADEMICS F
rom the wrestling ring to the computer science lab, Robert McDonald embodies the ideal student: he has forged a stellar list of academic achievements, all while remaining committed to his athletics and radiating a rare form of sincere empathy and affability.
Although McDonald has always had a passion for computer science, specifically because of its “combination of math, science, and problem-solving,” he also believes strongly in “being a well-rounded student.” And it is because of this philosophy that he has been able to maintain a consistently high grade in all of his courses and achieve coveted academic accolades such as being one of two National Merit Scholars at HIES. McDonald’s achievements have not come easy -- he has worked hard. And what has propelled his steadfast commitment to academics has been his recognition of the future. “When I’m in the dumps, and I question why I’m doing this, I will always say to myself: ‘This is temporary and I’m going to get through it. I know that everything I do now is going to help set me up for the future,’” McDonald said. Despite McDonald’s clear aptitude for academics, you’ll never hear him boast about any of his awards or his impressive GPA. Instead, “he is one of the most grounded and best people I know, and he always has a smile on his face,” Sarai Jackson ‘21 said. McDonald is both “excited and nervous” about “meeting new people and the new environment [of Georgia Tech],” but his good-natured personality and profound intellect will undoubtedly guide him on a path towards immense success.
ROBERT MCDONALD
THE C&G | 15
H
istory and Math. While some may consider these two subjects worlds away, Lane Estes relishes in both mathematics and social studies.
A natural mathematician and a history prodigy, Estes has displayed talent beyond his years. He has consistently taken math classes with students a year older than him, and he found learning “fun to broaden your horizons.” However, by joining the PeerKonnect program as a tutor, Estes helped 40-50 of his HIES peers with their coursework. Spending his down time teaching, Estes prefers the exposure to teaching. “I wouldn’t say it’s really been like me being special or talented or anything. It’s just me liking learning. I feel that when you really like something you just do it anyways,” Estes said. Tapping into his love of history, Estes works at the Atlanta History Center in two different roles. He shows visitors around the museum and answers their questions on the weekend. His more significant commitment involves a project: “I do a paper, a thesis, the whole nine yards. And I present that to the Atlanta History center about a topic that I researched on.” Estes will attend the University of Georgia in the fall where he is currently undecided in his major. Because of his experience tutoring his peers, he is considering a career in teaching.
LANE ESTES
“I don’t know what I want to do,” Estes said. “Teaching could be fun for a career, but I’m also trying not to narrow down my options that quickly.”
Whatever you do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it”
-Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
B
eyond her vivacious, outgoing personality, Logan Jackson is an exceptionally dedicated student. She paved her way to become the exemplary student we recognize today. As an incoming freshman, she took a leap of faith by running for Class Vice President. As a new student, Jackson was not yet widely known, but as a former leader in Middle School, she decided to throw her name in the running– a testament to her courage and tenacity. Throughout high school, Jackson’s favorite class has been Global because it gave her realworld experience and knowledge that she will use throughout her life. “[Global] has expanded… my perspective on different issues,” she said. “If I hadn’t taken Global, I don’t think I would be interested in the things I am today.” Beyond the HIES bubble, Jackson capitalized on the opportunity for international travel with the Round Square program, visiting Canada for a leadership conference. “I heard many different perspectives on important issues... They discussed topics such as gender and women’s rights, and… how these things affected the greater community.” Due to Jackson’s passion and dedication for academics, she was awarded the Morehead Cain Scholarship, as an incoming freshman at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC). This is considered amongst the most prestigious scholarships in the nation, and Jackson is the first student in HIES history to receive this great honor. If her noteworthy accomplishments at HIES serve as any prediction, Jackson is bound to do great things at UNC come this Fall.
LOGAN JACKSON
16 | BALANCE OF EXCELLENCE
“I
will never pass up a moment to step on a stage and just feel that rush of adrenaline,” Mary Evelyn King said. “It’s like a breath of relief because I get to be someone that I’m not for like an hour and a half.”
After seeing her brother on stage in his fifth grade production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, King knew that she was meant to shine. “I turned to my mom and I said, ‘Mommy, I’m going to be the star of my fifth grade play,’” King said. Evidently, her predictions were spot on, as King went on to star in every play and musical that HIES had to offer. While theatre gives King an opportunity to showcase her talents to the world, it has also become a place for her to be her true self without any judgment. “I definitely laugh the most when I’m in the fine arts building,” King said. “And I think that speaks volumes that that is like a place where I feel safe, a place where I feel at home.”
MARY EVELYN KING
In sixth grade, King formed a special bond with her scene partner, Julia Durst ‘16. “She was so kind to me when she just didn’t need to be kind to me. And I think that I kind of learned a lot about what it means to be a friend through her and her friends,” King said. As King closes the curtain on her theatre career at HIES, she leaves the program with a few words of wisdom: “Don’t give up. Once you are done you’ll kind of be able to look back and be proud of what you’ve created during your time here.”
ARTS D
rew Herman, a senior who’s been at HIES since the 6th grade, expressed his love for 70s classic rock and music altogether.
“I’m definitely a classic rock type of guy. I love the Eagles, my favorite band ever. It’s just that I love good guitar,” Herman said. “And that’s where it mainly was back in the 70s.” Herman, a guitarist, discovered his passion for music surprisingly on Instagram. “When I was in 10th grade, I was on Instagram and saw some dude playing guitar,” Herman said, “And I was like, I can do that.” Ever since Herman came across the guitar video his enjoyment for guitar elevated. Herman started a band with a group of friends. “We call our band Strawberry Hill. It’s definitely been the most fun part of this year, just being able to play in front of all our friends at school,” Herman said. “It’s definitely made this year so more tolerable and fun.” Although Herman discusses the joy of having a band with his friends, there are some challenges that come with it. Strawberry Hill’s first time playing officially at HIES was a complete disaster. “The first time we played our microphone system exploded. So, we couldn’t sing. I mean, it broke like 10 seconds into while we were playing,” Herman said. “It’s just really tough to get all the technical aspects right. And that stuff is the hardest part.” Herman is attending the University of Georgia and plans to continue his hobby with a minor towards music.
DREW HERMAN
I
dentifying inspiration for art is tough for all artists. Staying motivated is even harder. For Spencer Pearson, art is not only his mode of self-expression and self-discovery but also his medium for grief. This keeps his artwork inspired, fresh, and always coming.
Losing his father his junior year, Pearson has certainly endured hardships. But he has undergone significant personal and emotional development by consequence. “I take [my father’s story] as a strength… because I finally got to show myself, and I reflect that in my art” Pearson said, “and if I can get over this [grief], then I can get over anything honestly… I don’t have to fear anything anymore” Three months after his father’s passing, Pearson won State for diving, an accomplishment he says he made in his father’s honor. “I took foundations of art… that was my first experience with photography” Pearson said. From there, he progressed to greater things. He recently embarked on his AP curriculum, cumulative project.
SPENCER PEARSON
Pearson enjoys spending time with friends, dabbling with the piano, and diving competitively. As Pearson heads off to warmer weather in Miami for college next year, though he may not be taking photographs for a course nor professionally, we’d bet you’ll see him searching for landmarks and people to capture in image.
“When you dance, your purpose is not to get to a certain place on the floor. It’s to enjoy each step along the way.”
-Wayne Dyer
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hile sitting at a Panera Bread a few years ago with her mother, Gaby Diamonon had an epiphany. “I remember imagining what my life would be like if I were to become a fashion designer. My mom said to me, what if you want to get into costume design or fashion design?’” Growing up in New York City, Diamonon was surrounded by some of the greatest artists and designers the world has to offer. “There were murals everywhere and they always inspired me to paint and be creative and all,” Diamonon said. Through her adventures around the world, from Hong Kong to Bolivia, Diamonon discovered that art can be an outlet to express her emotions. “It’s been a heavy part of how I’m growing and how I’m sort of pushing back against whatever I’ve suffered,” Diamonon said. It just inspires me to do something that not everyone else can do because it’s so universal. Anything can be considered art as long as you see a meaning to it.” Diamonon is pursuing her love of art and fashion at Drexel University in Pennsylvania at the Westphal College of Media Arts and Design. “I just can’t wait to see what I become as a designer.” As Diamonon takes her talents onto another school, she always keeps in mind what art really means to her: “Art allows me to just take a breather and let my brain dive into creativity and just unfold on whatever it wants to do.”
GABY DIAMONON
18 | BALANCE OF EXCELLENCE
“D
uring quarantine. I learned a lot about the fast fashion industry,” Addie Gaudet said. “And that’s what I want to do with my major and my life.”
While in quarantine Gaudet discovered her love for fashion. According to The Ladders more than 70% of people in quarantine watched tv shows and movies. She’s transitioned to thrifting and making her own clothes. Although Gaudet is new to thrifting and the fashion industry she’s already trying and making new apparel. “I’m not very good at making my own clothes, but I try my best. I’ve made a few things that I really like. I’ve made a few bags and stuff like that,” Gaudet said. Gaudet has upcoming apparel and models she’s working on currently. With prom on the way many seniors rent or buy dresses and tuxes, but Gaudet has a different approach. She will be making and thrifting her very own prom dress. “I finished the final product of the skirt for my dress,” Gaudet said. “But basically, I just started with some cheap fabric and made my model and made the pattern. It’s just a lot of repetition, practice and trying to get it perfect.”
ADDIE GAUDET
In a span 5 years almost 1.9 million are employed into the fast fashion industry. The fashion industry is loaded with designers Gaudet seeks to keep her fashion hobby going while attending Virginia Tech next school year. “I’m planning on having an environmental resource management major with hopefully either a double major or minor in fashion design,” Gaudet said.
HOBBIES A
self-taught enterprising senior with global experience, passion, and a budding business: meet Neo Becerra-Ramirez, “DJ Neo,” who transferred to HIES in his freshman year.
Ramirez began playing the piano when he was four years old. His love for music took on another form when he was introduced to a deejaying app on an iPad, “I started there and I’ve grown myself and my business for many years.” Because his parents were originally reluctant to invest in expensive sound equipment, he gradually supported himself by building up digital apparatus through income from gigs and now has carved out a place for himself on the Atlanta deejay scene. Whether it’s a Bat Mitzvah, private party, or even a wedding, every crowd has its own taste in music. “The thing about deejaying is analyzing the crowd,” Ramirez said. “So whatever song you play, if the crowd doesn’t like it, then you know...that type of genre or that type of song, they don’t like.” One of his greatest struggles has been COVID-19. Though the pandemic has brought Ramirez’s fledgling business to a grinding halt, he turned to social media as an outlet to showcase his musical talent. “I saw other DJs doing live streams...so I started doing live streams and people liked it.” Ramirez continues to keep a positive attitude and is looking forward to attending Georgia State University in the fall. He will major in biology with aspirations of becoming a general surgeon in the future.
Neo Becerra-Ramirez
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ndrew Keller is a man of many interests. But when asked what his most favorite hobby was, his face lit up. “I first started rowing in seventh grade after my mom gave me a book called ‘Boys of the Boat,” Keller said. “And then I just fell in love with the sport.”
As the coxswain, Keller has many responsibilities as the constant voice of reassurance to his fellow crew members. “I am kind of the captain or leader of our team,” Keller said. When something goes wrong, such as a snake climbing into the boat, Keller must remain calm and lead his crew. “We were halfway down the river when someone from the back yelled up to me that there was something in the boat,” Keller said. “I think it was kind of surreal because nothing like that had ever happened to us.” It’s because of the bonds that Keller has formed with his team that allows him to be so successful. “I’ve known most of these. People since seventh grade,” Keller said. It’s a really close community, especially because in rowing, teamwork really does matter, and if one person is off, the whole team is off.”
ANDREW KELLER
As Keller heads off to Washington D.C. to further his academic career at George Washington University studying international affairs, it is likely that one would find him rowing down the Potomac River early on a Saturday morning as the sun rises. “It’s really the most relaxing and unique thing,” Keller said.
“Be open to what comes next for you. You may be heading in one direction and then life brings you another that might be a good thing.”
-Natalie Cane “W
hen you read about historical events through the eyes of a character, they suddenly become more than just dates,” Abbie Reams said. “You understand the impacts of what these events had on people’s lives.”
Historical fiction has allowed Reams to explore her passions for both reading and writing. Her first work of storytelling beyond a school assignment was an alternative ending she composed for the historical fiction novel My Brother Sam Is Dead. Many seventh graders read the story in their English classes, and her peers preferred Reams’ conclusion to the novel over the story’s original ending. Her friends’ enthusiastic support encouraged her to continue writing, and Reams now aspires for a career as a writer, editor, or publisher. Reams’ desire to write emerged from her love of reading. As a lower school student, learning to read with dyslexia presented various challenges. She attended the Schenck School in third grade and finished the entire Harry Potter series during her time there. “[Finishing Harry Potter] was kind of like overcoming the mountain,” Reams said. “That’s kind of the first series that opened my eyes to what you could read… it awoke my imagination, and my love of writing kind of unfurled out of that.” Reams credits her English teacher Dr. Christopher Swann for cementing her desire to make a career with her writing. She recalls one class during which Dr. Swann held a copy of his new book: “He looked at the class and he goes, ‘You know, dreams really do happen.’”
ABBIE REAMS
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AMIE LA-PORTE LEWIS For tassel turner As, the adored Class of 2021 dean, Amie La-Porte Lewis has been chosen by the senior class to be this year’s honorary tassel turner. The C&G highlights the impact she has made on the HIES community ALEX NEWBERG, staff writer
“I
immediately started crying just seeing them in their senior uniforms,” HIES Class of 2021 Dean Aime La Porte-Lewis said, “because they are like my babies and they’re growing up.”
HIES senior class of 2021 recently selected La Porte-Lewis as their honorary Tassel Turner. Consequently, she will serve a vital role in the graduation ceremony, moving the tassel from right to left on each graduate’s cap on May 15, 2021 to signify the beginning of a new chapter of their lives.
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in a select category of HIES faculty who have won twice. La Porte-Lewis always knew she wanted to be a teacher. She wasn’t sure of what subject nor what age group, but she was determined to enrich the lives of the young. After graduating from McIntosh High School in ‘99, La Porte-Lewis attended Agnes Scott, a private, women’s college, receiving a double-major in History and French Literature, as well as acquiring her teaching certificate.
ne of the most important things [I do is]... advocate for students, but also help students become advocates for themselves.”
Each year, this honor is bestowed unto a teacher or administrator by the senior class they believe had the most substantial impact on their individual development during their time at HIES.
Her career began in 2004 at Whitewater highschool on “Wildcat Way” in Fayetteville, Georgia. Teaching a wide variety of classes from World History to French and Economics, all at various levels of rigor, La Porte-Lewis remained in Fayetteville for 6 years, before coming to HIES in fall of 2010.
Incidentally, this is La Porte-Lewis’ second time receiving this honor, as she was also given the role of Tassel Turner in the Class of 2014’s graduation. This puts her
“I was at a moment in my life where I needed change… I was coaching Lacrosse and I saw this team playing I had never heard of: HIES,” La Porte-Lewis continued,
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“looked up their school website, and low and behold, they were looking to hire an assistant Girls’ Lacrosse Coach and a history teacher… I applied and got a phone call the next day… came [to HIES] and never looked back” La Porte-Lewis has served as the Dean of Class of 2021 since their sophomore year. “One of the most important things [I do is]... advocate for students, but also help students become advocates for themselves,” La Porte-Lewis said. She has a unique philosophy in academia (and life) that ultimately plays a key role in shaping her students’ perspectives and character. “It’s really important to me that students feel cared about and looked after… knowing that someone sees them for who they are.” La PorteLewis said. When asked why she adopted this philosophy, La Porte-Lewis became emotional (in true La Porte-Lewis fashion): “[In highschool] I gravitated toward the misfit-type crowd… I really experienced judgment from teachers, not really acknowledging [my] potential.” Evidently, her approach yields results as the Class of 2021 commended her for her enormous contribution to their growth during their tenure at HIES– but what may not be so obvious is their influence on her. “Knowing the kids so well… I understand what’s going on in their lives… and so there’s just a different approach,” La Porte-Lewis said. As her “babies” embark on the next chapter of their lives, leaving HIES and attending College in the Fall, La Porte-Lewis’ message is simple: “Of course, to make good choices… and [that] it doesn’t really matter where you go, you get out what you put in.” Fortunately, all that La Porte-Lewis put in for the betterment of the Class of 2021 has paid off with their recent recognition of her as their honorary Tassel Turner– an apt accreditation of her hard work and devotion to the Class of 2021, to say the least.
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Signed AthLETES 15 graduates from the class of 2021 will contribute their athletic prowess to their universities. *Data on HIES athletes provided to The C&G via Athletic Director Tony Watkins on April 1, 2021
MADDIE POCH, co-editor-in-chief
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TYQUANN ALEXANDER SHORTER UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL
Track and field is rewarding because it’s about moments. You train for weeks and months and it might all come down to one second in the end. The moments make the sport special and it’s those memories that I’ll always take with me from my time at hies. It’s not even just your moments, getting to see teammates succeed and seeing their hard work pay off makes all the hours worth it because you know what it means to them.
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CAROLINE BELISLE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA SOCCER Soccer has been a constant part of me, and my family’s life for as long as I can remember, and I could not imagine where I would be without it. Over the years soccer has taught me so much and impacted me in so many ways. It has taught me the importance and value of being a good teammate and what it is like to be a part of a team. It has also taught me the importance of hard work and determination. I truly would not be who I am today without this sport and I am forever grateful for that.
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SAM BARTON NORTH CENTRAL COLLEGE TRACK & FIELD
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JD BOGART BRADLEY UNIVERSITY BASEBALL
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My favorite memory of volleyball throughout my years of playing club and high school is definitely winning the state championship my senior year. I know as a graduating class of 7, we all had this goal the first day of freshman year, and we finally achieved it. It was for sure a long time coming to finally beat Hebron after all these years! The memories that were created during the state championship will forever be with me!
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I think the most challenging aspect of baseball is how long the season is. You play all the way from spring to the end of fall with no breaks. But that’s also one of my favorite aspects because you get to play for so long and instead of a short season with a lot of practices you get a long season with few practices. Another great part about the long seasons is that even when school is hard or I’ve had a long day I’ve always had baseball to help escape those things and clear my head.
PAIGE COLLINS GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY VOLLEYBALL
CIERRA FOSTER GEORGIA COLLEGE BASKETBALL
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ANN RILEY HUBER WASHINGTON AND LEE UNIVERSITY SOCCER
“ TYLER FULLER GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY BASEBALL
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ERIC FRANCIS UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL
I have been playing soccer since I was three years old. Obviously, I don’t remember every memory since then, but there are surely a lot to choose from. When I think of my most cheerful times growing up, they were playing outside of club/school soccer, just kicking the ball around with my dad. I can’t pinpoint one time because any and all time we spent together was special and I learned to cherish it as such. My dad is my role model in so many things and being able to share something I love with him is really extraordinary.
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SHANE NEWSOME CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY BASEBALL
MARSHALL NICHOLS MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL
ANNIE PARKER CORNELL UNIVERSITY LACROSSE
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RACHEL SUTTLE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA SOCCER
ALEX PEARSON ROBERT MORRIS UNIVERSITY TRACK & FIELD
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My favorite memory from my sport was winning the region. I qualified for state earlier that day too. Although our relay got disqualified it was really fun hanging out with my teammates throughout the day and posing on the podium after they announced our win.
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Playing sports since the age of three, I’ve learned the meaning of hard work, determination, and sacrifice. I’ve become more resilient and tough and met some of my closest friends throughout the years. Traveling all over the country, I’ve been blessed to play with and against people from different backgrounds that have taught me the importance of teamwork. I’ve learned the importance of time management and can better handle pressure situations. There’s a lot more I haven’t mentioned, but one of the most influential things I’ve learned is to be driven and focused and compete for the things I want.
MICHAEL ZARRILLO LAFAYETTE COLLEGE BASEBALL
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ARTIST spot light layout, MADDIE POCH, co-editor-in-chief
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savannah warrick
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ARTIST statement
I have loved design and studio art my entire life, but I gravitate towards painting and drawing, collage, and photography. I love photography because you can capture any moment in time and preserve it forever. I prefer a film camera rather than digital because I respect the process of developing and enlarging film from the beginning to the very end. This love of photography grew and eventually led into practicing with collage. I appreciate collage because it lets you focus on so many different values, such as layering and intentional placement, giving you the opportunity for new results every time. I try to find a common aesthetic for the pieces I include so there is a cohesive story. Depending on the materials, however, I tell diverse stories. I’ve made collages with film strips of pictures I’ve taken, which presents like a memory. I’ve used fabrics that remind me of a picnic I took with friends. When painting or drawing, my style depends on the medium I’m using. My art is memory. My art is a manifestation of my imagination and the emotions I want to feel. Creating art is an outlet and a coping mechanism. It has always been something I have rushed to do, eager to get to class or experiment with new materials. I always want to learn a new technique or process. For most things in life, there is just one way to find an answer. But in art, you can create your own answer.
Savannah Warrick
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CLASS OF 2020 DORM ESSENTIALS
MARINA QUINTERNO, staff writer
Rug Dormify.com
3
Shower Caddy wayfair.com
Images via iStock
2
Laundry Hamper Target.com
Mattress Topper amazon.com
5
7
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Futon mattressfirm.com
Games target.com
9
Blankets bedbathandbeyond.com
Storage Bins containerstore.com
8 10
Full-Length Mirror amazon.com
Desk Lamp walmart.com
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21 Pieces of Advice for High School Graduates DUNN NEUGEBAUER, contributing writer design: MAGGIE BELENKY, co-editor-in-chief
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Just because somebody has a drink with you, doesn’t necessarily mean he or she is your friend.
Never wear girls’ overalls into a marketing class. They will laugh at you, not with you. You will get betrayed at least once – but looking back it will be great lessons in forgiveness, handling adversity, and how to move on without leaving a mess. If you can handle distractions a good percentage of the time, you will do great. You don’t have to handle it all the time – I mean, you are in college – just a good percentage. Savor every minute – the good and the bad. In fact, one of my biggest regrets in life is that I never wrote it all down. If you’re female, be wary of aggressive, inebriated guys. People always think I’m kidding when I give this advice. I’m not – I’m really not.
When you’re around new people and new situations, copy the good, throw away the bad and throw in some seeds of your own.
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8.
9. 10.
Take naps whenever you can – just not in accounting class. Getting behind in there is almost impossible to make up – and besides - your numbers won’t match up.
15.
Don’t try to announce your presence with authority. After all, you’re a freshman. You don’t even know what the presence IS yet?
Some people take intramurals way too seriously; others drink their way through games. Shoot for somewhere in between.
16.
There is jumping off heights into water and there is alcohol. Do not mix the two.
Don’t panic if you’re not sure of your major. In fact, use your 20s for trial and error. Once you hit 30, it’s time to get on the launching pad.
11.
Don’t just buy the hot one a drink, include her sweet roommate as well. We’re all pretty in our own unique ways.
12.
Take some spontaneous weekend road trips, the less planned the better.
13.
When the situation calls for taking a charge in intramural basketball, don’t, just don’t. I mean, it’s just intramurals, right?
14.
Enjoy the food fight, but never be the one who starts it.
17. 18.
Remember: Rejection is protection. In fact, don’t ever forget that even after college.
College is a whirlwind – take time for yourself outside of the storm. In fact, this is a necessity. And again…even after college.
19.
When you get home late and you’re tempted to go the wrong way on the roundabout, don’t. Then again, once or twice might not hurt.
20.
Take a small glass on your first trip to the punch bowl. After all, there’s no telling what’s in there.
21.
Make whatever grades you will make but become an A-plus student in the psychology of people. This will pay off forever…and ever… and ever…
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GLOBAL CAPSTONE
RECAP
A look back at the class of 2021’s global cohort and their capstone projects MAGGIE BELENKY, co-editor-in-chief
Go Phish!: Robert McDonald There’s no better teacher than experience. When someone experiences an online scam,it makes that person more aware of techniques that scammers used to take advantage of them. Therefore, I believe that by simulating a fake phishing attack, I can safely and effectively raise awareness of this issue and educate users on how to recognize cyber fraud. The experience of almost falling victim to a potential plot will reveal the potential danger that lurks on the internet to people who have never been in this kind of situation before. By combining my simulation with educational resources already provided by the AARP, I can help people learn to protect themselves from being taken advantage of, a strategy that will decrease the amount of cybercrime overall by reducing the number of potential victims. After completing my simulation, participants will be able to recognize a potential scam before it happens and avoid it falling victim to it.
You are not Alone: A Suicide Prevention Podcast: Regan White I believe that by creating a podcast for teens struggling with mental health and suicidal thoughts, we can increase the use of the suicide prevention resources and decrease the number of teen suicides. By providing an engaging and informative podcast we can make the information many teens lack on where to go when they need help more easily accessible. By creating a platform to discuss issues around suicide we also provide an outlet for teens to meet and talk with people in similar situations, creating a strong community and connections that teens would otherwise lack. The inclusion of information on organizations, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, will increase the use of those resources by teens and has the potential to decrease the number of teen suicides in the US.
Lets Talk: Logan Jackson Young adults deserve to explore their identity and feel comfortable asking for help about topics such as sex and knowing the signs of a violent relationship. Students need a platform or safe space where they can be heard and understood in order to prevent the feeling of isolation. The lack of support in schools around this topic is a very urgent and troubling matter that needs to be solved very intentionally around the needs of students. These efforts will be lead by student leaders. Once that level of trust is established, leaders can begin to demand change within school curriculums (Sex Education in particular) and demand support from high power that can help them gain professional guidance and support from other organizations. Change will happen because people will begin to have open conversations about not only finding their identities but also about their personal relationship struggles.
Beyond the Buzzer: Eric Francis I believe that representation of the adaptive community is extremely important. Creating a space for people with disabilities to have a platform to share their story beyond their disabilities. Through access to platforms of stories about disabilities and inclusivity. Young disabled Americans are able to see and hear experiences of others that are able to promote and provide good self esteem and ideas that they are not alone in their fight. There is someone that is just like them that has gone through a similar experience that was able to succeed and thrive. While promoting inclusivity within the able bodied community pushing ideas that people with disabilities are more than their disabilities.
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Louder Than Words: Andrew Keller Louder Than Words is a podcast based social movement that believes in the power of storytelling to inspire activism. However, we believe that activism can only be successful if it is sustainable and educated, that is why we are committed to a rounded approach to narrative podcasting focusing on four key steps, listen, educate, discuss, and act. We are a global network of story gathers committed to creating a better more just world, join us as we change the way the world thinks about activism.
Project U: Maggie Belenky If we utilize resources such as free tutoring, free college counseling, and scholarships that already exist and bring it directly to families at the church in lower income communities, specifically the Latino community, and raise awareness of the opportunities and options of college, then we will lower the number of children dropping out of high school because they don’t know that college is an option and raise the amount of children enrolled in a four year or two year college with a scholarship.
Walls Between Us: Mary Evelyn King Through a short stage play, attention is grabbed from the start and held throughout the telling of our message. And with a post show conversation, the trust that has been built throughout the show can have a place to sit. My mission is To provide a safe space for students lacking vulnerability surrounding tough topics and give them the opportunity to see themselves represented through art to further empower them to keep a conversation going.
Recycling Concession Stand: Gaby Diamonon Recycling is a strong way to reduce one’s ecological footprint. By promoting this at sports stadiums, fans will associate recycling with recreation, which will encourage behavioral change to reduce one’s harmful impact on the earth. Repurposing further decreases the amount of raw materials we are using to create sustainable alternatives for consumers.
Until Proven Innocent: Rachel Suttle I believe that all victims of wrongful convictions deserve a platform to tell their story. I also believe that increasing awareness of the problem would lead more people to become involved in a solution and donate resources to organizations that can offer more immediate help to those wrongfully convicted and their families. And I believe that providing a platform that includes information, sharing outlets, and related sources, the number of people wrongfully convicted will decrease while those who are able to tell their stories get some sense of closure.
Air Pollution Awareness + Action: Sarah Sullivan and Iris Kase Our plan is to host a Gala Event at Piedmont Park in the summer time in order to raise money for the Nature Conservancy of Georgia who we will be partnering with. This will also raise awareness towards the Conservancy and help towards their future funding and projects. We also plan to educate those who attend this Gala about what types of things their money goes towards and small ways in which they can help implement positive change within the environment and ways which it will benefit them too!
The Civic Engagement Fair: Arin Francis When children and teenagers are exposed to the polarization and contentiousness that characterizes modern politics, they close themselves off before they’re even eligible to vote. But, by that same principle, if they are exposed to positive discussions and productive discourse in non threatening environments they will become more open to politics as a whole. Thus the environment a politics fair provides will generate engaged, eager young citizens.
Horizons Thrift Store: Caroline Berkey The Horizons Online Thrift Store is a non-profit that provides affordable, high-quality clothing to customers across the United States and donates its profits to Horizons at HIES to provide the best educational resources and opportunities to underserved students in the Sandy Springs, Georgia community.
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PARKER MILES, contributing writer
30 members of the class of 2021 have attended HIES for 13 or more years.
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t HIES, many students come and go, but only a handful can say that they have attended the school for 13 or more years. These individuals are the Alpha Omegas. Each year, there are roughly 20 Alpha Omegas in a graduating class, but this year, an astonishing 30 individuals have the privilege of saying that they have been able to experience all divisions the school has to offer. From playing on the Alan A. Lewis Primary School Primary School playground to receiving a high school diploma, the Alpha Omegas have created a plethora of memories in their time at HIES. What makes being an Alpha Omega so special? Five seniors from the class of 2021 share their perspectives. William Welden, one Alpha Omega in this year’s graduating class, acknowledged that one of the best things about being an Alpha Omega is the myriad of memories that are made along the way. Reflecting upon moments in the Dorothy Sullivan Lower School, for example, often brings a smile to an Alpha Omega’s face. “Two [memories] that stand out would be when we did the Diet Coke explosion in first grade, and when we had Polar Express Day in second grade,” Welden said.
Those who attended HIES in lower school fondly recall their experience acting and singing in the fifth grade musical. The class of 2021 performed Oklahoma, and Abbie Reams, another Alpha Omega, played the role of a principal dancer. “I had such a fun time performing, especially since I had never been in a production before,” Reams said. “It was such an exciting experience that our grade got to share.” Reams, like many other Alpha Omegas, acknowledge that some of the best memories they have made were not just individual ones, but also moments of bonding and collaboration with their peers. “My favorite memory is attending the [Project 2050 Conference] in Canada with Round Square,” Alpha Omega Melina Sharp said. “It was so beautiful to see and explore Banff while becoming close with all of the students from other schools, but also from HIES who came on the trip.” Looking at a school’s campus and culture across a decade, many aspects change, though some things remain the same.
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“I believe the leadership, campus, and academics have changed the most,” Sharp said.
know this has instilled in me a desire to think of others before myself, especially when times are hard.”
Hayden Puett, HIES attendee since pre-school, said, “As I have progressed, I have moved from staying with the same 15 people in my class all year to having classes with different people from different grades.” In addition, she adds a different perspective, mentioning that she has “formed much deeper relationships with [her] peers and teachers over the years.”
Similarly, Puett says, “From visiting homeless shelters to working at soup kitchens, I have learned what a wonderful gift it is to have the opportunity to reach out into the community and help those less fortunate than me,” Puett said. “HI has exemplified that giving back, even in seemingly small ways, can make a huge difference in the lives of others as we build relationships with people we would not have interacted with otherwise.”
On the opposite side of the spectrum, some Alpha Omegas have found that the best parts about HIES are the things that never change. “The most consistent thing over my 13 years at HI is definitely the quality of the people in our school community,” Puett said. “HI has always felt like home due to the close-knit family of our school community and that is something that I will miss dearly upon leaving.” Welden adds a different perspective, saying, “many of my preschool, elementary school, and middle school teachers are still here and they are still interested in what I am up to.” Welden has kept in touch with some HIES faculty members who taught him over 10 years ago. Alpha Omegas at HIES have remained at HIES because there are many captivatingl things about the community that make them return year after year.
Above all, the Alpha Omegas at HIES are not just individuals who gain knowledge from experience. Rather, they are individuals who have a great deal of wisdom to offer to younger students in the HIES community. “Keep the people you feel the happiest and most accepted around close to you,” Sharp said. “Those relationships will be the most valuable.”
“My school friends became my family, and my life would not be my own without navigating through it with them.”
James Watson, another Alpha Omega, said, “The community of people and the friends I have made at HI made me not even consider wanting to attend another school.” He continues, “I never thought about going to another school because I always knew just how special the teachers, faculty, and students were.”
Because of the small class sizes and the caring environment, those who have been a part of the community often describe the relationships at HIES closer to family than friends. “My school friends became my family, and my life would not be my own without navigating through it with them,” Puett said.
In terms of the academic perspective, Puett said, “Play the long game and try to keep perspective within the big picture of high school.” Puett provides her own personal account by mentioning, “Too often, I allowed trivial things like a singular test grade or one lost tennis match to unravel my world and temporarily break me. I have benefited more from my small failures than been hurt by them, which is why I view each failure as a great life lesson of what not to do for the future.”
HIES has also taught its Alpha Omegas the importance of becoming personally invested in the community through clubs and organizations. Between academics, athletics, and arts, those who have been a part of HIES for over a decade have had the chance to sample a variety of different activities and discover their passions.
- Hayden Puett
“Get involved with the HI community in ways that are meaningful to you,” Reams said. In addition, she also provides a key distinction between reasons why an individual should join a club at HIES. “Don’t join a club or activity just for the sake of a college application. You’ll become more inclined to participate in clubs and activities if you are passionate about them.” Making these choices about which organizations to join requires responsibility.
Arguably the most important part about being an Alpha Omega is that each student has been able to take away numerous valuable life-lessons. “I learned that when you really enjoy a subject or a particular topic, it never feels like a chore.” Watson said. Reams added a completely different perspective, mentioning that she has learned “the importance of giving back to the community.” She elaborates, “I
“Part of the fun of high school is figuring out everything on your own and becoming more mature because of it,” Welden said. He believes the best way to grow as an individual is to learn through trial and error. “Find the thing you enjoy and the people you love to be around,” Watson said. “Treat every moment like it’s the last, because eventually, it will be the last day, and the experience will be behind you.”
40 | FEATURES
THANK y u, Mrs. Elms Past and present members of The C&G staff reflect on Mrs. Elms’ time as the staff adviser as she retires from the position. In the 2021-22 academic year, Mrs. Elms will teach more AP Lang and Global classes while The C&G staff will welcome Mrs. Rebecca Rivera as the new staff adviser.
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olivia Martin ‘19
I came to HIES knowing absolutely no one. I knew none of the teachers and I knew none o the students. My first few weeks were rough, but then I met Ms. Elms in my Intro to Journalism elective and I knew everything would be okay. She exudes an overwhelming positivity, in all her interactions, and carries herself in a genuine manner that is all too rare. Ms. Elms has been my favorite teacher during my time at HIES and I am eternally grateful to her for her counsel and friendship.
jaylee davis ‘20
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Zak Kerr ‘21
To begin, Mrs. Elms has a pleasant knack for giftgiving, as she would offer her students a Trader Joe’s-brand chocolate bar. Yet inscribed on the cyan, gold, or maroon paper were three adjectives that she would use to describe you. Simple, yet significant. Now, I will attempt to return that gesture, albeit sans chocolate. I settled on Generous, Self-possessed, Dedicated. Eight years she spent as the adviser of the C&G, guiding its evolution from humble beginnings in volume II to the award-winning publication soon to publish the last of volume IX. She was our defender. Our mentor. Our torchbearer. The C&G will certainly miss her presence but I wish her the best of luck when facing this next frontier.
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Maddie Poch ‘21
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matthew Raeside ‘20
Of all of the teachers at HIES, Mrs. Elms has seen me change the most. She pushed me to get out of my comfort zone, and she created an environment where I felt safe. Having a teacher believe in me like Mrs. Elms did was life-changing, and I am grateful for the time I spent with her writing for The C&G.
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From exploring the streets of New York City to helping me write my first lede, Mrs. Elms was an all-around delight of an adviser. I was blessed to have Mrs. Elms as a teacher for all my years on The C&G staff. Water to a plant, Mrs. Elms is a nurturer -- fertilizing minds and fostering ideas. Her dynamic energy and adventurous attitude led the staff to new frontiers. She truly knows how to harness the potential energy of students and encourage them to do even better. Personally, Mrs. Elms has been a deeply empathetic mentor for all the struggles I have experienced inside and outside the classroom. I love her dearly, and I know she will be phenomenal at whatever she conquers next.
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To me, the best teachers help you learn more than just what you need for the classroom. Mrs. Elms was the for me––teacher, mentor, friend––and I have used what she taught me being on the staff of the C&G in nearly every aspect of my life since. Some of my most cherished HIES memories center around her.
ethan mullen ‘19
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Maggie Belenky ‘21
Ms. Elms was one of my biggest advocates and mentors at HIES. I use what I learned at the C&G all the time, not only when it comes to journalism and graphic design, but in terms of leadership, and making my voice heard.
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There is nothing Ms. Elms wouldn’t do for the people she loves and I have had the pleasure of experiencing that first hand. Ms. Elms is rare: she will fight for you when it feels like no one else is willing, she will push you harder than any other teacher, and she will go out of her way to make sure you are doing well. The C&G will certainly never be the same without Ms. Elms and I will miss her dearly.
THE C&G | 41
Teachers like Mrs. Elms are rare. She’s a teacher who pushed me to find my confidence as a person and a writer.
Shea Fleming ‘19
ANDREW KELLER, contributing writer
hen was the last time you heard a story?
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Stories are all around us. They are an innate part of what makes us human and what differs us from our evolutionary ancestors. Every one of us is a storyteller at heart. Stories can make us laugh, cry, and fall in love. Stories can inspire us, and stories can remind us of our past. Stories also have immense power. It is stories that bring dictators to power, but it’s also stories that lead to their fall. Stories are a valuable tool; activism and storytelling have always been linked. This past year is a great example of how small stories can lead to global movements. The death of one man led to a global movement that forced the world to reckon with its past. But we shouldn’t give stories too much credit; stories don’t actually do anything. They may inspire us, but we have to act on that inspiration. It isn’t just one story that led to the Black Lives Matter movement that swept the world this past summer. The stories of hundreds of thousands of activists committed to change hundreds of years of oppression led to change. We often feel accomplished after hearing stories, as if we were on the moon with Neil Armstrong when he took his first step, or we were marching alongside John Lewis as he crossed the Edmond Pettus Bridge. But we weren’t; we didn’t do anything. Stories are just words. Actions will always speak louder. The link between stories and activism is important, yet it is often misused. Listeners feel inspired but fail to act, and, if they do, it’s often uneducated, misguided, or fails to incite any meaningful change. Does it have to be this way? This spring, I found a way to rethink the power of storytelling and its role in activism alongside Cara De Haus from St. Cyprians School in Cape Town, South Africa and Luis Tomas from Colegio Los Nogales in Bogotá, Columbia. Is it possible to use stories to create sustainable educated activism? We began to research how to make activism successful and how to tell a good story. We looked at the science behind storytelling, statistics of social movements, and the speeches of world leaders. Of everything we researched, the most impactful lessons were from our own everyday experiences, like how
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our own communities grappled with complex issues through stories from people we knew. We realized that the most impactful stories aren’t the ones told by well known activists or celebrities, but by everyday people just like us. But there are problems with that, too. If we only hear stories from people like us, we isolate ourselves from other people, from stories that might make us feel uncomfortable, or from people we don’t know. But we can also love those stories, stories that are so different then our own that they spark our imagination and force us to question what we have accepted as fact. What started as a question became a global social justice movement, called Louder than Words. Our result Louder than Words, a podcast-based global social justice movement that believes in the power of storytelling to inspire activism. We believe that activism can only be successful if it is sustainable and educated. That is why we are committed to a rounded approach to narrative podcasting with four key steps: listen, educate, discuss, and act. We are a global network of storytellers committed to creating a better, more just world. Activism has become a global phenomenon. Now it seems anyone can become an activist with the click of a button or a post on social media. However, truly successful activism can only occur if it is conducted in an educated way that considers what is best for your local community. The following four steps are how we believe this type of activism best can be facilitated and represent the user journey of our project. Our mission is to gather and share stories from the silenced, ignored, oppressed, and discouraged. To utilize the power of storytelling is to educate and inspire. However, we must simultaneously understand where the value of stories ends and where action begins. We are a global network of activists invested in creating a better and more just world through the power of both our shared experiences and our invaluable differences.
Our user begins their experience with our project by encountering it through social media, or a friend, and they decide to listen to a story. This is easy thanks to the broad availability and easy accessibility of our podcast. The user hears a well-edited story about social activism and becomes emotionally involved in the story. They become inspired by the storyteller’s experience and want to learn more.
Educate
The user finds easy to access background guides on the topic of the story they listened to. The background guides provide information about the storyteller and their activism as well as historical context and current issues. These background guides are conveniently available to the user close to the podcast. The user is encouraged to learn more using available research links and credible news sites.
Discuss
Now educated about the topic and its background, the user can engage in meaningful discussion with friends, family, or peers thanks to discussion guides designed with storytellers to spark meaningful conversation and dialogue about topics that often aren’t discussed. This meaningful dialogue can spark new realizations and help to bring seemingly foreign issues closer to home.
Act
Now that our user has been inspired, educated, and has engaged in meaningful dialogue, they are now prepared to go out and engage in sustainable activism in their own communities. Sustainable activism is activism that works to actively make change in a community while first considering those it impacts. We believe that through this process we have inspired a culture of activism, and a new generation of activism has been born.
SENIOR STAFF REFLECTIONS C&G senior staff members share their parting thoughts.
design: MAGGIE BELENKY, co-editor-in-chief
Maggie Belenky
A Goodbye To My Teachers
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s I anxiously walked through the front doors of the Alan A. Lewis Primary School as a Pre-K student in 2007, Ms. Dye’s friendly smile welcomed me and all of my nerves went away. And that is a true testament to so many of my teachers here at Holy Innocents’. These twelve years at Holy Innocents’ have been pivotal in shaping the person that I am today because of the incredible teachers at this school. For my final contribution to the C&G, I feel I must end my reign as a teacher’s pet with the ultimate article: a thank you note to my teachers. To Ms. Fredrick (Kindergarten): Thank you for being patient with me as I tried to learn to read as a dyslexic student. You taught me the importance of perseverance, even when things seem tough. To Ms. Klein (tutor for 3rd-5th): Thank you for helping me realize that I have no limits when I truly apply myself. Without you, I would never have learned the importance of mnemonic devices when studying. For example, when multiplying 8x8, remember this trick: she ate(eight) and she ate(eight) and was sick on the floor (64). To Ms. Silvera (Eighth grade): Thank you for teaching me the importance of humor and not taking life so seriously. I still remember when you tricked us into thinking you drank a harmful chemical when teaching us lab safety and then lighting a blanket on fire to teach us how to extinguish a fire. Because of you, I know that it is okay to laugh at serious things. To Mrs. Rivera(Ninth Grade): Thank you for being the first teacher that I built
a true connection with. You have been so influential in my growth not just as a student, but as a person. Thank you for supporting me and being there for me through the past four years. To Mrs. Elms(9th-12th): Thank you for teaching me how to stand up for myself. You have shown all of us on the C&G staff what it means to be passionate about something and defend it with all our hearts. Through you, I have learned the importance of not only standing up for myself, but for others because I know there is nothing you wouldn’t do for the people that you love. To Ms. Reed(12th): Thank you for making it clear that you are on my side 100% of the time and want me to succeed. You have been so supportive of me, cheering me on at the musical, reading every page of the magazine, and yelling words of encouragement as I walked down the STEM stairs in my prom dress. And finally, To Mr. Yarsawich(10th-12th): Thank you for helping me feel seen. You have truly been the most influential person in my 12 years at HIES. Through you, I have learned the importance of loving myself. Life is full of many ups and downs, but you must push forward. Thank you for being a shoulder to cry on and creating an environment where I know that it’s okay to not be okay. I will miss you dearly. I hope that all of you reading this learn the importance of teachers in our lives. At times, it seems like they are out to get us or don’t want us to succeed, but really, they are just trying to help us reach our full potential. Thank you Holy Innocents’ for all that you have done for me and I will miss you.
Maddie poch
Maddie’s Declassified School Survival Guide hough I lack Ned’s journal and Cookie’s artificially intelligent eyeglasses, I have managed to learn a few things throughout high school. The 14 years I have spent at HIES have been central to becoming who I am today. My friends, teachers, and coaches within the community have made a profound impact on my view of the world, and I care more because of their kindness. I love to learn because of their passion. I love to create because of their imagination. The least I can do is offer up my (declassified) advice as my final contribution to The C&G. Here are five pieces of advice for high school and beyond.
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3. Have a sense of humor.
1. Find what you like to do.
4. Be the type of person who makes other people feel special.
Take time to consider the activities and subjects that bring you joy. What makes you the happiest? What doesn’t feel like work, even when you’re obligated to do it? For me, it’s the writing, interviewing, and designing aspects of Journalism. Learning about people and sharing their stories through The C&G has challenged me and fundamentally changed the way I think about people. Trying to capture a part of the human experience in words, colors, and graphics has brought me immense satisfaction and a deeper understanding of the world around me.
2. Don’t settle.
Olivia Martin ‘19 gave me this advice, and it’s more than worth repeating. Your time is limited, and so is your energy. Be selective in the things you do and the people you choose to keep close. If you find yourself in a friendship, relationship, or commitment that no longer serves you, honor your feelings and pursue what makes you happiest.
If living my entire senior year through a global pandemic has taught me anything, it’s that there are no guarantees. Many events we’ve looked forward to for years were cancelled or drastically changed. Laughing about the little things got me through this year. Joke when you can, and try to be the person who makes other people smile. Their laughter is contagious, and being able to lift the mood is a life skill that will serve you well.
Ask people about their days. If a compliment comes to your mind, speak it out loud. Make sure your words and actions are genuine, but do and say things that let the people around you know that they are appreciated. Though you might see someone every day, you will never be able to know the challenges a person might face. Extending your kindness can go a long way.
5. Don’t let the little moments slip away.
Life is full of ‘in-between’ moments. Savor the times when you’re walking to class or riding the bus with your teammates. It can be tempting to rush through those minutes, but the memories you make when you lean into the details of life are truly special. Bring a speaker and sing along on those bus rides. Moments when you stay present with the people around you will end up being your favorite memories.
Zak kerr
If I Had Been Valedictorian...
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’m not this year’s Valedictorian or Salutatorian. So, much to my dismay, I don’t get to give a speech at graduation. However, if I had earned one of the two aforementioned titles, and had the opportunity to give a speech, it would go something like this:
the true beginning of our lives. It marks the time when we are finally able to set sail into the unknown and chart our own courses and choose our own direction.
Recently, I stayed out past my curfew. I returned home early in the morning to find my mother perched atop one of the bar stools in the kitchen as though she were a (very angry) eagle, with its prey in sight, waiting to swoop in for the kill. Before she began her imminent rebuke, I blurted “But Mom… I’m 18 and you need to chill out.” You can guess how the rest of that “discussion” went.
We have been given a scaffolding upon which it is our turn to finish the construction. How high we build, how sturdy our reinforcements, and how eloquent or not we forge our design is at our sheer discretion.
Let me repeat: this is the true beginning of our lives.
Out there, disguised under the deceptive cloak of nature’s beauty, awaits a vastly vicious and unforgiving world. Out there awaits a world that will not wait.
Anyway, to the point. So, if the world will not wait, why should we? It was in that moment that the significance of the age 18 truly hit me. Maybe not in the eyes of all parents, but in the eyes of the law and the education system, 18 marks the beginning of adulthood. With 18 comes the bestowment of a new and more grave form of responsibility. With 18 comes enhanced expectations and more severe consequences for mistakes. But most importantly, it is with 18, through our graduation from high school, that we are handed the torch of independence. For the first time, we are left to make our own decisions, we are left to live independently, and we are left to bear full accountability for our actions.
Let us capture this world in our hands, let us outpace its rotation, and let us make the world wait on us. To stand a chance against this world, we must come to appreciate the moment and its value. We must learn how to embody the meaning of carpe diem. What has already happened in our lives has transpired, we cannot regress. And what lies on the path ahead, we cannot possibly know. But what happens now, we may decide. We have the power of this moment. This is our moment, and we are the class of 2021.
To some, this may sound daunting. And that’s because it is. This graduation marks
EDITORIAL POLICY The C&G is a student-run, quarterly magazine published by the Crimson and Gold journalism staff at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School of Atlanta. All opinions expressed in this publication are those of the individual author, and do not necessarily reflect those of the entire staff or those of Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School. The magazine is written and designed as part of the journalism curriculum, and contributing writers can be included. The C&G values inclusivity and would appreciate any feedback or contribution. The staff strives to publish a diverse set of writing and perspectives while maintaining a standard of excellence. Please contact thecrimsonandgold@gmail.com for more information. The advisor and the editors have the ultimate say on content and have permission to edit contributions for grammar and taste. The staff will only publish legally protected material and keeps the privacy of individuals included in mind.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY The C&G values inclusivity and encourages any feedback or contribution from its readers. To express any complaints, concerns, or compliments with our most recent issue, please write a letter to the editor and include your name. Email the letter to thecrimsonandgold@gmail.com, or slip the letter under the door of room STEM 603. Letters deemed appropriate by the C&G staff will be published in the following issue alongside a response from the editorial board.
AFFILIATIONS CSPA // GSPA // JEA // NSPA
2021
