Tiger Roar Summer 2024 by The Dunham School

DUNHAM FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT PRESENTS

Dear Dunham Family,

Throughout our 43-year history, faithful men and women have sustained The Dunham School through prayer, often asking, “Lord, will you help us?” Time and time again, God has heard and answered that prayer.

In this issue of Tiger Roar, you will see that God continues to answer our prayers in amazing ways. By all accounts, The Dunham School is thriving—in the delivery of our Christian mission, the success of our students and alumni, the caliber of our teaching staff, and in the strength of our community.

At our Founders Dinner this spring, we had the opportunity to recognize and thank many of our generous donors and volunteers, including our 2024 Katharine O. Dunham Philanthropy Award recipients, Claudia and Gary Phillips.

I am excited to announce that we have reached a milestone in our fundraising efforts by surpassing our $800,000 Dunham Fund goal and have raised nearly $10 million towards our $16 million 40 & Forever capital campaign goal.

We remain grateful to those who have invested their time, talent, and treasure to support an authentically Christian school that educates our students minds and hearts today and prepares them to become the leaders of tomorrow.

We know that God is still at work at The Dunham School and that He will work through His people. Please join me in praying that God will continue to bless us and guide our plans.

God Bless,

Steven A. Eagleton | Head of School

HEAD OF SCHOOL

Steven A. Eagleton EDITOR

Marguerite Estes Director of Marketing

CONTRIBUTORS

Phyllis Alexander

Steve Eagleton

Allyson Jones Hingle ’92

Mike Jenkins

Nancy Little

Neil Weiner

PHOTOGRAPHY

Phyllis Alexander

Allyson Jones Hingle ’92

Jordan Hefler

Aaron Hogan/Eye Wander

Maci Jackson ’18

Christian Johnson ’11

Don Kadair

Romaguera Photography

Melissa Turner

Kyle Valdez and various Dunham constituents

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Barbara Himber

TigerRoar

SUMMER 2024

MISSION

The Dunham School seeks to provide students with the opportunity for a college preparatory education set in the framework of Christian education and example.

Please forward address changes to:

The Dunham School 11111 Roy Emerson Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70810 or christen.blanchard@dunhamschool.org

Stay Connected with Dunham! dunhamschool.org

Head of School Steve Eagleton with 2024 Founders Dinner honorees (from left) Brad Watts ’87, Claudia and Gary Phillips, Kelly Hornsby ’89, and Board Chair Blair Gremillion

celebrating

Mary Theriot

LAST FALL, MIDDLE SCHOOL HEAD

MARY THERIOT announced her decision to retire at the end of the 2023-2024 school year. In sharing the news with the Dunham community, Mrs. Theriot said, “I have loved having the opportunity to work at Dunham, and the last 25 years have enriched my life beyond measure. I thank God for placing me at The Dunham School where I have been blessed with memories that will last a lifetime.”

Mrs. Theriot's remarkable 25-year journey at The Dunham School is a testament to her leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to education. As a servant leader known for her Christian faith, compassion, and understanding, Mrs. Theriot not only shaped the lives of countless students but also enriched the school environment, fostering a culture of growth and achievement in the Middle School that will be felt for generations to come.

Reflecting upon Mrs. Theriot’s retirement, Head of School Steve Eagleton said, “While I am excited for Mary and her husband, Randy, to begin the next chapter in their lives, it is bittersweet to say goodbye to a such talented administrator who has served the Dunham community so faithfully and so well. Mrs. Theriot has been an amazing servant to The Dunham School and has added a great deal to the Middle School experience.”

Mrs. Theriot began her career with the East Baton Rouge Parish School System, teaching at Banks and Broadmoor elementary schools. When her youngest son, Austin Theriot ’03, enrolled at Dunham in the fall of 1999, she joined the school as well. For the next eight years, Mrs. Theriot taught math and science to sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students, served as an advisor to seventh-grade boys, worked as the Middle School liaison for accreditation, and even took on the role of Middle School athletic director for a few years.

In the fall of 2007, Mrs. Theriot was named Head of Middle School, a position she held for the next 17 years. Although it is impossible to adequately note the considerable impact she has had on the growth and development of the division, the list below highlights just a few of her many accomplishments. As Middle School Head, Mrs. Theriot:

• oversaw the addition of fifth grade to Middle School.

• created a Lower Middle School (fifth/sixth) and Upper Middle School (seventh/eighth) structure to better serve the needs of students.

• strengthened the division by adding a Middle School Dean of Students and establishing guidelines, policies, and procedures that gave students the parameters to grow and develop appropriately while still having the flexibility to explore new ideas and interests.

• implemented the Middle School House System and the formation of House committees to develop students’ leadership skills.

• made it “cool to be smart” through the addition of advanced coursework in all grades and disciplines.

• established a National Junior Honor Society Chapter and a National Junior Beta Club.

• began the practice of holding individual academic planning meetings with seventh-grade students, their parents, and the Director of College Placement to help students’ chart a course of study for their next six years.

Students, parents, teachers, and colleagues had the opportunity to submit notes and share special memories of Mrs. Theriot during the Middle School Honors Convocation on May 14, and at a retirement celebration held in her honor on May 16.

One such memory came from Austin Theriot, who shared with his mother a recent conversation he had with a Dunham parent. “When this parent found out I was Mary Theriot’s son, his face immediately changed. His face shifted to one of pure admiration for you and your work. He told me that you are the reason his child is at Dunham and that you, specifically, had such a positive impact on not only his son but his entire family.”

Austin continued, “I have always admired you for the positive impact you have on others, and with every student or parent I meet, I am reminded just how far-reaching of an impact you have had over the course of your amazing career. You have set a beautiful example not only for your own sons and grandchildren but also for hundreds of students who are all better humans because of you.”

Thank you, Mrs. Theriot!

Dunham Goes to

Washington

For 25 years, Dunham seventh-grade students and their parents have explored history and faith during the annual Washington, D.C., trip. Below, former history and Bible teacher Mike Jenkins shares some of his favorite memories from the trip that continues to integrate devotionals, prayer time, and scripture with the history and culture of our nation.

THE SEVENTH-GRADE WASHINGTON, D.C., TRIP, as we know it today, has its roots in a trip that former science teacher Jim Garbo led for his sixthgrade students in the late 1980s. Those trips ended with the start of the first Gulf War in 1990 when Mr. Garbo, a member of the U.S. Army Reserve, was called to active duty.

In 1997, Dunham parent Stan Anders encouraged me to attend a Promise Keepers Rally on the National Mall. After a day spent in worship and prayer with Stan and fellow Dunham dads, Ben Jones and Don Griffin, the vision for a new student trip to the nation’s capital was born. Upon my return, I brought up the idea of creating a trip for seventh-grade students, and we found a travel program, WorldStrides’ Christian Discoveries, that aligned with Dunham’s mission and curriculum. We took our first trip in 1999, and since then, more than 2,000 Dunham students, teachers, and parents have traveled to Washington, D.C., to explore history and form lifechanging moments.

In addition to providing opportunities to visit historical sites, the trip is designed to allow students to develop skills in public speaking, worship leadership, and an appreciation for the Christian principles on which our nation was founded. In preparation for the trip, students conduct research about the sites they will visit. As the group moves through the city, students become the tour guides, sharing information they have acquired with classmates and parents.

Highlights of the trip include stops at the White House, the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the War Memorials, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the Library of Congress, Mount Vernon, the Smithsonian, the Museum of the Bible, and the Holocaust Museum. Students also participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, lead a prayer service in the Chapel of St. Joseph of Arimathea in the National Cathedral, and pray with and for members of our federal government.

The Dunham trip to Washington, D.C., is unique in that parents are encouraged to attend and make lifelong memories with their children. Through the years, the trip has had an impact on students’ college and life choices with some now living and working in the D.C. area. On a recent trip, Major Patrick Owens ’05, who serves in the United States Marine Corps, met the class at Arlington National Cemetery and shared memories from his own class trip and the impact it had on his life and career.

On a personal level, I have so many memories from the annual Washington, D.C., trips, but one that always stands out is seeing a student staring at the names engraved on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. When asked by former history teacher Lyneé McAdams what he was staring at, he replied, “I just realized every name on that wall was a person just like me.”

Lessons like that can’t be taught in a classroom but must be experienced. The Dunham D.C. trip provides opportunities for students to learn from experiences beyond the classroom

The Class of 2028 gathers in front of the Capitol in the fall of 2022.

Samay Mirpuri ’24 Earns a Perfect Score on the ACT

Congratulations to Samay Mirpuri ’24 the leading college admissions test, the ACT measures students’ mastery of the skills and knowledge they will need for success in college in four academic areas: English, math, reading and science reasoning.

On average, less than one-tenth of one percent of students who take the ACT earn a perfect score. “Earning a top score on the ACT is a remarkable achievement,” said ACT CEO Janet Godwin. “A student’s exceptional score of 36 will provide any college or university with ample evidence of their readiness for the academic rigors that lie ahead.”

In addition to his perfect ACT score and status as a National Merit Scholar, Samay, who will attend Harvard this fall, was named a 2024 Coca-Cola Scholar Semifinalist based on his academic achievement, leadership abilities, and service to his school and community.

A joint effort of Coca-Cola bottlers across the country and The Coca-Cola Company, the Coca-Cola Scholars Program is the largest corporate-sponsored, achievement-based scholarship program in the United States.

2024 National Merit Recognition

by Phyllis Alexander

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation recognized Samay Mirpuri ’24 as a National Merit Scholar and Adrian Raymond as Semifinalist in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program. Ben Barton ’24 was named a National Merit Commended Student. As a National Merit Scholar, Samay became eligible to compete for a National Merit Scholarship awarded by the corporation in the spring.

“Each of these students is an accomplished scholar; they also are highly competitive athletes, talented performers, and leaders on our campus,” said Director of Upper School Amanda McIlwain.

High school students enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Qualifying Test (PSAT-NMSQT) in the fall of their junior year. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, which includes the highest scoring entrants in each state, represents less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors.

Ben Barton ’24

Samay Mirpuri ’24

Adrian Raymond ’24

Seniors Receive College Board Honors

by Phyllis Alexander

Dunham seniors Madison Morgan ’24, Adrian Raymond ’24, and Kai Washington ’24 were honored as National Recognition Awards Program Scholars by the College Board. Madison and Kai received National African American Recognition Award honors, and Adrian earned a National Hispanic American Recognition Award.

This academic honors program recognizes academically exceptional students who have scored in the top 10 percent of the state on the PSAT-NMSQT or earned a score of 3 or higher on two or more Advanced Placement (AP) exams by their junior year. To qualify, they must also have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.

“We are very proud of these students who have earned this recognition for their achievements in the classroom and on the College Board assessments,” said Upper School Director Amanda McIlwain. “Such recognition helps excellent students stand out to colleges during the admissions process.

The program also helps students connect with colleges, universities, and scholarship programs across the country by sharing their achievements through the College Board Student Search Service. As a result, students may receive interest from schools that include special recognition or scholarship opportunities.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Nevaeh Kimmie ’24 was inadvertently omitted as a 2023 Student of the Year in the Fall 2023 issue of Tiger Roar. In the spring, each Upper School class recognizes the accomplishments of the student in that grade who was the most frequently named student of the month by the faculty. Nevaeh was the 2023 junior class co-winner, sharing Student of the Year honors with classmate Lila Badeaux ’24. We extend our sincerest apologies and belated congratulations to Nevaeh.

Kai Washington ’24, Adrian Raymond ’24, and Madison Morgan ’24

BLAKE BEALE ’24

CHARLIE DANTIN ’24

ETHAN COURTER ’24

MALLORY GOLIGHTLY ’24

GEORGE HARROD ’25

WAIT HARROD ’25

GRACE ROBVAIS ’23

KAI WASHINGTON ’24

SAMAY MIRPURI ’24

RHAIA DAVEY ’23

RACHEL STANGER ’23

SIMONE RILEY ’23

KATIE HARRIS ’24

HOUSTON THERIOT ’24

CAYLIN PIXLEY ’23

ADRIAN RAYMOND ’24

2023 AP Scholars

WHEN THE COLLEGE BOARD RELEASED THE 2023 ADVANCED PLACEMENT ® (AP) RESULTS last summer, the Dunham community was thrilled to learn that 25 current and former students were recognized as AP Scholars based on their outstanding performances on their 2023 exams. Students who earn a score of 3 or higher on a five-point scale may be eligible to receive college credit for coursework completed during their high school careers. The results of the 2024 exams will be announced this summer.

AP SCHOLAR WITH DISTINCTION

Awarded to students who earn an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on five or more exams.

Amelia Fargason ’23

Jackson Ford ’23

Kari Johnson ’23

Samay Mirpuri ’24

Caylin Pixley ’23

Adrian Raymond ’24

Jake Rizzo ’23

Rachel Stanger ’23

Kai Washington ’24

AP SCHOLAR WITH HONOR

Awarded to students earning an average score of 3.25 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more exams.

Charlie Dantin ’24

Reese Davis ’23

Mason Elliott ’24

Mallory Golightly ’24

AP SCHOLAR

Awarded to students who earn scores of 3 or more on at least three exams.

Blake Beale ’24

Ethan Courter ’24

Rhaia Davey ’23

Katie Harris ’24

George Harrod ’25

Wait Harrod ’25

Emerson Lazarus ’24

Elizabeth McDonald ’23

Claire McIlwain ’24

Simone Riley ’23

Grace Robvais ’23

Houston Theriot ’24

MASON ELLIOTT ’24

EMERSON LAZARUS ’24

KARI JOHNSON ’23

ELIZABETH McDONALD ’23 CLAIRE MCILWAIN ’24

JAKE RIZZO ’23

REESE DAVIS ’23

JACKSON FORD ’23

AMELIA FARGASON ’23

Algebros Claim Top Math Awards

Members of the Upper School Algebros team proved to be fierce competitors this year, bringing home top team and individual awards at four math tournaments. Notably, despite stiff competition, the team placed first in the Interschool Competition and finished third in the Sweepstakes at the Baton Rouge High Tournament. Congratulations to the team for their talent, dedication, and teamwork.

Parker Allee ’27, Emaline Chen ’27, Jenna Robey ’27, and Maggie Yarborough ’27 finished first in the geometry team competition at the Catholic High Tournament.

The Upper School Algebros team claimed first place in the Interschool Competition at the Baton Rouge High Tournament in February. Pictured are (standing, from left) Katie Harris ’24, Sia Mirpuri ’26, Emaline Chen ’27, Samantha Talbot ’26, Mason Elliot ’24, Ben Barton ’24, George Harrod ’25, (seated) Mal Walker ’25, Aiden Fee ’26, and Adrian Raymond ’24.

BATON ROUGE HIGH TOURNAMENT TEAM AWARDS

Overall Sweepstakes, 3rd Place

Interschool Competition, 1st Place

Ben Barton ’24

Emaline Chen ’27

Mason Elliot ’24

Aiden Fee ’26

Katie Harris ’24

George Harrod ’25

Sia Mirpuri ’26

Adrian Raymond ’24

Samantha Talbot ’26

Mal Walker ’25

PreCalculus, 2nd Place

Aiden Fee ’26

Sia Mirpuri ’26

Samantha Talbot ’26

Calculus, 3rd Place

Ben Barton ’24

Adrian Raymond ’24

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

Geometry

Emaline Chen ’27, 1st Place

PreCalculus

Aiden Fee ’26, 1st Place

Samantha Talbot ’26, Honorable Mention

Calculus AB

George Harrod ’25, 3rd Place

Mason Elliot ’24, Honorable Mention

BROTHER MARTIN TOURNAMENT TEAM AWARDS

PreCalculus, Honorable Mention

Nico Bush ’25

Adora Dinh ’25

Sadie Snyder ’26

Samantha Talbot ’26

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

PreCalculus

Nico Bush ’25, 2nd Place

Sadie Snyder ’26, Honorable Mention

Algebra I

MaKenzi Barrow ’28, 3rd Place

Geometry

Emaline Chen ’27, 4th Place

CATHOLIC HIGH TOURNAMENT

TEAM AWARDS

Geometry, 1st Place

Parker Allee ’27

Emaline Chen ’27

Jenna Robey ’27

Maggie Yarborough ’27

PreCalculus, 2nd Place

Aiden Fee ’26

Sia Mirpuri ’26

Sadie Snyder ’26

Samantha Talbot ’26

Calculus B, 2nd Place

Lila Badeaux ’24

Ben Barton ’24

Adrian Raymond ’24

Mal Walker ’25

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

PreCalculus

Aiden Fee ’26, 1st Place

Samantha Talbot ’26, Honorable Mention

Calculus B

Adrian Raymond ’24 4th Place

Geometry

Emaline Chen ’27, 4th Place

Parker Allee ’27, Honorable Mention

EPISCOPAL MATH TOURNAMENT

TEAM AWARDS

Overall Sweepstakes, 3rd Place

Interschool Competition, 2nd Place

Nico Bush ’25

Aiden Fee ’26

Samay Mirpuri ’24

Sia Mirpuri ’26

Sadie Snyder ’26

Gus Van Haute ’24

PreCalculus, 1st Place

Aiden Fee ’26

Sadie Snyder ’26

Gus Van Haute ’24

PreCalculus, 3rd Place

Nico Bush ’25

Sia Mirpuri ’26

Geometry, 4th Place

Emaline Chen ’27

Maggie Yarborough ’27

Algebra II, Honorable Mention

Andrew Bardwell ’26

Neil Singh ’26

Eliot Trahan ’26

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

PreCalculus

Aiden Fee ’26, 1st Place

Nico Bush ’25, 2nd Place

Sadie Snyder ’26 Honorable Mention

Geometry

Emaline Chen ’27, 2nd Place

Calculus B

Samay Mirpuri ’24, Honorable Mention

Spelling Bee

With the correct spelling of “paralysis,” 6th-grader Jack Polson, pictured with teacher Melissa Stevens, became the 2023 Dunham Spelling Bee Champion. Jack earned the opportunity to advance to the Regional Spelling Bee, with a coveted spot in the Scripps National Spelling Bee on the line.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MIDDLE SCHOOL ROBOTICS TEAM for their strong finish in the Walker High School FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics competition in January. The team placed 4th out of 17 teams in the qualifying matches, earning them a spot in the playoff matches. In December the team placed 6th out of 14 teams competing at the Country Day Qualifier sponsored by Louisiana FIRST and advance through the playoffs to the semifinal round. Team members pictured with faculty sponsor Ed Van

and

Jack McKearn ’27 Awarded Seed Money for Start-Up Venture

This spring, Jack McKearn ’27 was awarded $1,000 to help launch Voodoo Ventures, a novelty company that will produce Louisiana-themed items. After applying and being selected to participate in the Young Entrepreneurs Academy of Baton Rouge (YEA BR) last fall, Jack spent much of this year developing his start-up business. In March, he presented Voodoo Ventures and its signature king cake hat at YEA BR’s Community Pitch, a Shark Tank-like event where students compete for seed funding. Created through a partnership with the Baton Rouge Area Chamber, Louisiana Economic Development, and LSU, YEA BR is designed to help local students transform into future entrepreneurs and CEOs.

Jack McKearn ’27 with Drew Brees, keynote speaker for the YEA BR graduation ceremony this spring.

IN DECEMBER, THE 5TH AND 6TH GRADE TIGERBOTS participated in the FIRST LEGO League Challenge at LSU where the team designed and constructed a competition robot using the Lego SPIKE robotic kit, and then wrote a program for the robot to successfully complete missions on the competition board. Tigerbots team members include (from left) Colin Rabel ’30, Asher McGovern ’30, Bronson Lasseigne ’30, Sam Shields ’31, and Reyansh Punukollu ’31; not pictured: Cash Blanchard ’30

Haute include (from left) Robyn Soltau ’28, Liam Bumpus ’29, Alex Gustafson ’28, MaKenzi Barrow ’28,

Fallon Johnson ’28; not pictured: Erica Joseph ’28 and Jenna Nussbaumer ’28.

Junior Beta Club

In their first year as a campus organization, the Dunham Junior Beta Club sent 40 Middle School students to the State Beta Convention in Lafayette where more than 12,000 middle school students from across the state competed in a variety of academic, STEM-based, and performing arts events. At the convention, Zoey Christophe ’30 placed first in drawing and second in onsite art; Phoenix Pham ’30 took second place in science; and McKenna Anders ’30, Charlotte Chadha ’30, Lila Grace Gisclair ’30, and Kate Higginbotham ’30 earned fifth place in marketing and communications.

Third Grade Innovation Inspires Future Teachers

Scan the QR code to learn more about the

Thanks to a partnership between Dunham and the LSU Lutrill & Pearl Payne School of Education, future teachers from LSU visited Mrs. Burychka’s third-grade class in the fall to see firsthand how innovation can transform learning. Director of Innovation and Technology Nikole Blanchard, an LSU graduate, has been the catalyst for the long-standing partnership with LSU.

Junior Beta Club members at the State Beta Convention Left: Zoey Christophe ’30

Phoenix Pham ’30

partnership.

Literary Rally

After competing at the District Literary Rally in February, 13 Middle and Upper School scholars were eligible to advance to the state rally by placing first, second, or third in their subject areas. Pictured are Alex Smith ’25 (American History); Rocco Lambe ’27 (Physical Science); Eliot Trahan ’26 (Algebra II); Mason Elliot ’24 (English IV); Lennox Young ’28 (Spanish 1); Aiden Fee ’26 (PreCalculus); Makenzi Barrow ’28 (Algebra 1); Mallory Golightly ’24 (Government); Bailey Adams ’27 (French 1); Anna Griffin ’25 (French III); Jenna Nussbaumer ’28 (French 1); Jordyn Mooney ’25 (English III); and Agatha Schellack ’27 (English 1).

STUDENT Achievements

Chair Challenge Winners

Daniel Borne ’32, Ben Butler ’32, and Mason Pevey ’32, pictured with Middle School STEM teacher Ed Van Haute, were the winners of the annual 4th Grade Chair Challenge. Students made the chairs in the Innovation Lab using only newspaper and tape, with the goal of building a chair that was at least a foot high, balanced, and able to support an adult. Mr. Van Haute tested the chairs by applying pressure to the top of each one to determine if he would sit in the chair.

Louisiana Junior Classical League

Our small but fiercely competitive team of Latin scholars rose to the challenge at the Louisiana Junior Classical League Convention where Aiden Fee ’26, George Harrod ’25, Wait Harrod ’25, and Joshual McIlwain ’26 became the Louisiana Advanced Certamen State Champions. Every student on Dunham’s eight-member team won at least one award while competing against schools with much larger teams. Pictured are (back row, from left) Aiden Fee ’26, George Harrod ’25, Jordan Mooney ’25, Wait Harrod ’25, Joshua McIlwain ’26, (front) Agatha Schellack ’27, Makenzi Barrow ’28, and Jenna Robey ’27

Emerson Lazarus ’24 Recieves Neighbors Way Scholarship

NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY

Congratulations to Lukin Kelley '28, who was selected as a National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) Outstanding Achievement Award recipient.

The Neighbors Capital Area Foundation awarded Emerson Lazarus ’24 with s a $1,500 scholarship as part of the Neighbors Way Tuition Assistance Program. Area schools that participate in the Neighbors Mascot Checking Program are invited to nominate one graduating senior to receive the scholarship each year. Students are nominated based on their character and commitment to the credit union’s core values of integrity, respect, trust, stability, community involvement, honesty, empathy, ethical behavior, and fairness. Congratulations to Emerson on this welldeserved honor and many thanks to the Neighbors Capital Area Foundation and Neighbors Federal Credit Union.

Lukin received $500 in a 529 college savings account to be applied toward his higher education. NJHS award recipients are chosen based on their demonstrated work to support the five pillars of NJHS: scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship.

HEADMASTER’S AWARD Lukin Kelly ’28 and Ava Johnson ’28 receive the 2023-2024 Headmaster’s Awards from Head of School Steve Eagleton

2023–2024

UPPER SCHOOL AWARDS

Adam Corbett Drama Award

Madeline Murphy ’25

Baton Rouge State Fair Foundation Scholarship Award

Lily Stringfellow ’25

Godly Character Awards

Lily Stringfellow ’25

Camille Istre ’26

Katherine McDonald ’27

Kiwanis Courtesy Award

Katie Harris ’24

Knights of Columbus Award

Mason Elliott ’24

Tulane University Book Award

Alex Smith ’25

Spirit of Service Awards

Madison Rico ’25

Lucy Courter ’26

Elijah Haven ’27

U.S. Army Scholar

Athlete Awards

Claire McIlwain ‘24

Tyler Thibodeaux ’24

2023–2024 MIDDLE SCHOOL AWARDS

Headmaster’s Awards

Ava Johnson ’28

Lukin Kelley ’28

Godly Character Awards

Brinley Quirk ’28

David Scott Rainwater ’28

Levi Hahn ’29

Jesse Harrell ’29

Lila Grace Gisclair ’30

Emery Jarreau ’30

Jane Prather ’31

Grey Ramsey ’31

Spirit of Service Awards

Ava Johnson ’28

Lukin Kelley ’28

Brant Gisclair ’29

Mae Prather ’29

Isabella Joiner ’30

Lucas Murray ’30

Cooper Burychka ’31

Eva Dantin ’31

Two Coins Scholarship Award

Joanie Bernhardt ’28

HOUSE MICHAELSON WINS HOUSE CUP! Members of House Michaelson triumphantly lift the coveted Snoddy House Cup. House Michaelson won this year’s competition by accruing the most house points over the course of the school year.

Graduation

CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2024

COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES FOR THE CLASS OF 2024 WERE HELD ON SATURDAY, MAY 18. THE 68 MEMBERS OF THIS YEAR’S GRADUATING CLASS WERE ACCEPTED TO 98 COLLEGES AND RECEIVED $16,811,691 IN SCHOLARSHIP OFFERS.

The Class of 2024 gathered for a group photo prior to baccalaureate on May 17

DUNHAM FACULTY AND STAFF MEMBERS AND THEIR 2024 GRADUATES include (front row, from left) Charlie, Millie, and Melissa Turner; Amanda, Claire, and Mitch McIlwain ’85; (middle row) Jacques and Adrienne Clement; Houston and Mary Theriot; Gus and Ed Van Haute; Grace and Amy Dykes; (back row) Donna and Ethan Courter; Abigail and Neil Weiner; and Hayden and Allyson Jones Hingle ’92.

OF 2024 LEGACY GRADUATES and their parents include (front row, from left) Hayden and Allyson Jones Hingle ’92; Jadee Beth Fair and Brooke Landreneau LaCombe ’98; Claire and Mitch McIlwain ’94; (back row) Braden and Shaun Johnson LeBlanc ’85; Brad Watts ’87 and Helen Watts; and Charlie and Brian Dantin ’96

VALEDICTORIAN

Samay Mirpuri

SALUTATORIAN

Charlie Dantin

ARTES DOMINI GLORIAE

Adrian Raymond

The Artes Domini Gloriae Award (Arts for the Glory of God) honors the senior who possesses superior artistry and has demonstrated outstanding achievements in the arts while maintaining strength of character and integrity.

CRIMSON AND SILVER AWARD

Katie Harris

The Crimson and Silver Award, the highest honor possible, is given to the senior who has exemplified the love of Christ with both peers and faculty and whose life has clearly reflected a desire to honor God and acknowledge Him in all his or her ways.

HALL OF FAME AWARD

Charlie Dantin

The Hall of Fame Award is presented to the senior who has brought the greatest positive community recognition to the school during the course of his or her athletic high school career.

KATHARINE O. DUNHAM AWARD

Claire McIlwain

Established in memory of Katharine Dunham, this award recognizes the senior whose conduct and character best exemplify the school’s Honor Code by demonstrating a strong sense of personal honor and integrity in his or her daily life.

SERVANT’S HEART AWARD

Mason Elliott

The Servant’s Heart Award honors the senior whose high school career has displayed an attitude of serving others by performing selfless acts of willing and cheerful service at school, at church, and in the greater community.

CLASS

Class of 2024 Valedictorian Samay Mirpuri (left) and Salutatorian Charlie Dantin

Bobby Welch

With a mixture of profound sadness and praise for a Christian life well-lived, the Dunham community mourns the loss of former Head of School Robert W. Welch, who passed away on April 28, 2024, in Savannah, Georgia.

Fondly known as “Bobby” to those who knew him, Mr. Welch served as Head of School from 2006 -2015, an era of tremendous growth that helped establish The Dunham School as one of the leading private Christian schools in the country.

“Bobby was a visionary leader who helped the school to thrive during an amazing time of building and expansion, and he helped implement many of the programs and traditions we continue to enjoy today,” said current Head of School Steve Eagleton.

through the use of Apple products. In 2011, The Dunham School received its first Apple Distinguished School Award for the application of technology and innovative curriculum development. Dunham remains the first and only PreK-12 school in Louisiana to hold this distinction.

Mr. Welch and his wife, Pam, an experienced English teacher who served in The Dunham School’s English department and assisted in college placement, helped to reinvent the school’s baccalaureate service to allow each graduating class to tell its unique story, a ceremony that remains a cherished tradition to this day.

Mr. Welch’s commitment to academic excellence led to the expansion of the Advanced Placement (AP)® program and the school’s continued use of the Harkness Method. In 2007, he helped establish The McKay Academic Center to provide individualized support for students with learning differences. Much-needed campus improvements completed during Mr. Welch’s tenure included the construction of The Robinson Administration Building, the McKay Academic Center, the Brown-Holt Chapel Arts Center, the Dunham Athletic Center, the new Lower School building, and our state-of-the-art competition gym.

Perhaps his greatest legacy, however, was the unique partnership he entered into with Apple, Inc., in 2009 that gave every student access to cutting-edge technology

While in Baton Rouge, Mr. Welch also founded the Louisiana Association of Independent Schools, served on then-Governor Bobby Jindal’s commission on school reform, and chaired the Governor’s Prayer Breakfast.

Following his retirement in 2015, Mr. Welch continued to serve as an independent school consultant, first at PAIDEIA, Inc., and later at On-Mission Diagnostics, which he co-founded with his son, Chip Welch.

Mr. Welch is survived by his wife, Pam, daughter Angela (John), son Chip (Meg), son Jeff (Kate), stepdaughter Amy (Chris), stepson Kip (Lisa), and 17 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Funeral services took place on Saturday, May 4, on Whitemarsh Island, Georgia.

Please join us in extending our heartfelt condolences to the Welch family and our sincerest gratitude for Mr. Welch’s service to The Dunham School.

BOBBY WAS A VISIONARY LEADER WHO HELPED THE SCHOOL TO THRIVE DURING AN AMAZING TIME OF BUILDING AND EXPANSION, AND HE HELPED IMPLEMENT MANY OF THE PROGRAMS AND TRADITIONS WE CONTINUE TO ENJOY TODAY. ”

— HEAD OF SCHOOL STEVE EAGLETON

Bobby Welch, pictured with his wife, Pam, served as head of school from 2006-2015.

Shannon Henry is the new administrative assistant for Middle School. In addition to coordinating the division office, Shannon is often the first friendly face students, faculty, and visitors see each day. She most recently served as the administrative assistant to the chief nursing officer at Woman's Hospital.

Dan Hawkins joined the athletics department as the head coach for boys soccer. Coach Hawkins is also the director of operations for Ascension Flight Soccer Organization. A native of Blackpool, England, Coach Hawkins graduated from the University of Central Lancashire (U.K.) with a degree in sports coaching. He has his UEFA “B” license.

STEM

Dunham innovation and tech gurus manned a STEM table sponsored by Shell and Mike's Kid Club at LSU’s Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Pictured are (from left) Mary Elizabeth Carruth, Laura Hebert, Julie Labeau from Shell, Sydney Harris from LSU, Nikole Blanchard, and Morgan Reech.

Dunham Faculty and Staff Attend LACUE Conference

Several Dunham teachers attend the Louisiana Association of Computer Using Educators (LACUE) conference in New Orleans. Director of Innovation and Technology Nikole Blanchard and Technology Coach Mary Elizabeth Carruth were presenters at the conference.

Nikole Blanchard, Mary Elizabeth Carruth, Tiffinie Burychka, Jade McDowell, and Caroline Breard

Mary Sutton Sotile, Maya Weinert, and Mary Elizabeth Carruth

Dr. Amos Lyso Appointed Middle School Head

The Dunham School is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Amos Lyso as our new Middle School division head. Dr. Lyso began his new role in July. He succeeds Mary Theriot, who retired at the end of the 2023-2024 school year.

In sharing the news of Dr. Lyso’s appointment with the Dunham community, Head of School Steve Eagleton said, “After conducting a national search, we are grateful for God’s faithfulness in bringing us the ideal candidate to lead our Middle School division. After spending more than 15 years in Christian independent schools, Dr. Lyso knows firsthand the transformative nature that this type of education can have on the lives of young people and understands the importance of challenging and encouraging students to reach their full potential in all areas of life—academically, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.”

holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, a Master of Arts in Youth and Family Ministry from Luther Seminary, and a Bachelor of Education from Pacific Lutheran University.

Dr. Lyso has more than 25 years of experience as an administrator, teacher, and coach. He comes to Dunham from the American International School of Guangzhou where he was the secondary principal. Dr. Lyso previously served as the head of middle school at the British International School of Houston, vice principal at Yew Chung International School, and campus life coordinator and math teacher at Seoul Foreign School.

Dr. Lyso, his wife, Alli, and their first- and fourth-grade sons, Josiah and Malachi, are thrilled to be joining The Dunham School community, saying, “Although we have spent most of our careers overseas, we couldn't be more excited to join the Dunham community—one that is dedicated to academic excellence alongside a deep commitment to living out the truth and love of the core tenants of the Christian faith.”

Please join us in welcoming the Lyso family to Baton Rouge.

Alli and Amos Lyso with their sons, Josiah and Malachi

Welcome, Chef Scott!

Since joining Dunham as the new food service manager, Chef Scott Mullen has spiced up the daily lunch offerings with a variety of cultural cuisines, including Korean BBQ beef, shrimp lo mein, and even ballpark-inspired food in honor of MLB Opening Day! Chef Scott (fifth from right) is pictured with his Sage Dining staff Micheal Thomas, Joanathan Ross, George Springer, Lilith Gore, Jamie Mosby, Gerrick “G” Brock, Areba Young, and Taj Ely.

Extra! Extra! The Upper School spring musical, Newsies, recreated the real-life newsboy strike of 1899.

The Lower and Middle School production of Singin’ in the Rain Jr. had audiences tapping their toes and singing along to one of the world’s favorite musicals.

High comedy took center stage in last fall’s Upper School production of John Patrick’s The Curious Savage while proving that affection and kindness can still abound in a world that at times seems dominated by dishonesty and greed.

JURIED HIGH SCHOOL EXHIBITION

Outstanding artwork created by Holland Hammett ’25, Kate Plaisance ’25, Jacques Clement ’24, and Hayden Hingle ’24 was on display at Baton Rouge Gallery’s Juried High School Exhibition this spring.

2023- 2024 HONORS ORCHESTRA AND CHOIR SELECTIONS

Louisiana All-State Orchestra

Adrian Raymond ’24, cello

EBR All-Parish Honor Band

Aidan Fee ’26, trombone

Sarah Lewis ’28, clarinet

Lennox Young ’28, percussion

EBR All-Parish Jazz Band

Jeremiah Blanchard ’24, vocals

LMEA All-State Choir

Kessie Stewart ’24

ACDA All-State Choir

Kessie Stewart ’24

District Honor Choir

Kessie Stewart ’24

From far left: Holland Hammett ’25 with her artwork at the Baton Rouge Gallery. Another original piece by Holland placed fourth in the Kiwanis Pancake Festival Art Show in November; Kate Plaisance ’25; “The Great Unknown” by Jacques Clement ’24, shown here at Baton Rouge Gallery, was also on display at the LSU School of Art Statewide High School Exhibit this spring; Inset: “Wet Laundry” by Hayden Hingle ’24

KIWANIS PANCAKE FESTIVAL ART

SHOW Scarlett Kirsch ’28 and Cooper Eenigenburg ’28 received Honorable Mention for their artwork at the Kiwanis Pancake Festival Art Show.

UPPER SCHOOL CHOIR

Congratulations to Choir Director Ryan Hanrahan and the Upper School Choir on receiving a superior concert award after receiving the highest possible score at the District Festival in March.

NUTCRACKER

Four Dunham dancers performed in The Nutcracker—A Tale from the Bayou in December.

Pictured are (clockwise from center) Hazel Guillory ’33, Lucy Watts ’31, Lila Grace Badeaux ’24, and Genevieve McCullough ’31.

Faith and Service

COMMUNITY SERVICE

AWARD Congratulations to Kai Washington ’24 who was honored for her commitment to community service with the 2023 Dorothy M. Stepteau Polaris Youth Award by the Greater Baton Rouge National Panhellenic Council.

SEE YOU AT THE POLE Coach Neil Weiner prays with students at the See You at the Pole event in September.

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

For more than 20 years, our Middle School students have experienced the joy of serving others through Operation Christmas Child. In December, they provided 180 shoeboxes for children in need across the world.

PASSION WEEK 2024 Blueprint, based on Luke 6:47-48, was the theme of this year’s Passion Week. Owen Lejeune ’30 reads scripture to bless the campus during Passion Week.

EASTER PREPARATION Pastor Gerrit Dawson visited campus to talk about the Lenten season with third-graders who were learning about meditating on God’s Word and creating individual Lent art journals in preparation for Easter.

VETERANS CHAPEL First-grade students thanked our nation’s veterans for their service during the Lower School Veterans Chapel.

2024 HOMECOMING COURT Homecoming Queen Stella Boone ’24 (front, center) with the 2024 Court (front, from left) Malyn Rolling ’24, Anna Thompson ’24, Claire McIlwain ’24, Katie Harris ’24, (back) Maggie Yarborough ’27, Claire Nesheiwat ’27, Presleigh Hand ’26, Alexis Trahan ’26, Kate Rizzo ’27, Lily Stringfellow ’27, and Adora Dinh ’27

Father-Son BBQ

FATHER-DAUGHTER DANCE

DUNHAM MEN’S CLUB Above, left: Ben Jones ’90, Grady Hazel, Neil Weiner, and Andy Yarborough enjoy the Men’s Club Social. Above, right: Aaron Stratman, Judson Banks, and Brian Cohn attend the annual Men’s Steak Night.

Below: Scott and Peyton Petrie ’32; right: Alina Hicks ’37

Eddie and Griffin Kennison ’31

Brody ’27, Cooper ’27, and Darren Burychka

Rolfe McCollister, Caden McNeil '31, Isaiah McNeil '34, and Ryan McNeil

Thanks to the generosity of the Dunham community, Jubilee raised $130,600 for the school’s academic, athletic, and fine arts programs.

Dunham Carnival 2024 raised $29,000 for student athletic and fine arts programs.

Above: Blake Whittle raises his paddle during the Jubilee live auction. Left: Head of School Steve Eagleton, Raegan Narcomey, Carson Narcomey, Allyson Jones Hingle ’92, Krystal Howell, and Director of Development Kelly DeRossette

Silver

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

DUNHAM CUP GOLF CLASSIC

The 2024 golf tournament, held in October at The University Club of Baton Rouge, raised more than $22,300 in support for alumni outreach and programming.

2024 Dunham Cup Champions Charles Jantzi and Eric Brown.

Grandparents Day 2024

Dunham students welcomed their grandparents to campus on February 9.

A thletics

Female Athlete of the Year Nevaeh Kimmie ’24 and Male Athlete of the Year Drew Bourgeois ’24

2023-2024 Tiger Athletics Recap

by Neil Weiner

ATHLETIC HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2023-2024 include district championship titles, multiple post-season honors at the state, metro, and district level, and opportunities to compete in state championship tournaments.

In the fall, a young group of swimmers made some noise at the state meet where the 400-yard freestyle relay team of Christian Cowen ’25, Hayden Cowen ’27, Hayden Hingle ’24, and Jack McKearn ’27 claimed a state runner-up finish.

The Lady Tigers volleyball team, led by Head Coach Meagan Herrington, advanced to the regional round of the playoffs, and All-State honoree Kennedy Stewart ’24 was selected to play in the LVCA All-Star game.

Both the boys and girls cross country teams qualified for the state meet while the football team won their fifth district championship in the last seven seasons. Coach Neil Weiner was named District Coach of the Year, Elijah Haven ’27 was named All-District Offensive MVP, and Malachi Jackson ’24 was named All-District Defensive MVP.

The winter brought historic seasons for both the boys and girls basketball teams. District Coach of the Year Chad Myers ’97 and the Tigers advanced to the LHSAA Final Four for the second year in a row with Elijah Haven ’27 and AJ Olivier ’26 earning All-State recognition. Coach Hilary Morris was also named District Coach of the Year after the Lady Tigers claimed a district championship and entered the state playoffs as the #1 seed for the first time in school history. Nevaeh Kimmie ’24 and Mollee Day ’25 were awarded All-State honors.

In soccer, both the boys and girls teams returned to the state playoffs for the fourth straight year. Lila Badeaux ’24 rounded out the winter sports season by qualifying for the state meet in powerlifting.

In the spring, our boys golf team qualified for the regional match and finished in third place at the Baton Rouge Metro Championship. The girls and boys tennis teams each had five players qualify for the state tournament where both the girls doubles team of Stella Boone ’24 and Helen Watts ’24 and the boys doubles team of George Harrod ’25 and Milo Johnston ’27 advanced to the semifinals.

In track and field, Nevaeh Kimmie ’24 qualified for the state finals in three events while the boys relay team of Richard Montgomery ’26, Trevor Haman ’26, JJ Harris ’26, and Jac Comeaux ’24 qualified for the state finals in the 4x100m.

Both the baseball and softball teams had major victories and accomplished significant milestones. The baseball team upset highly ranked 5A teams while advancing to the quarterfinals, and the softball team once again qualified for the playoffs led by six-time All-District pitcher Claire McIlwain ’24. Claire and Josh Lim ’25 were named to the All-State teams in softball and baseball respectively.

Scholastic Athlete of the Year Claire McIlwain ’24

MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Drew Bourgeois ’24

FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24

SCHOLASTIC ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Claire McIlwain ’24

SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD

Clay Pecue ’24

MVP AWARDS

Joshua Lim ’25, Baseball

Elijah Haven ’27, Basketball

AJ Oliver ’26, Basketball

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24, Basketball

Tyler Thibodeaux ’24, Cross Country

Leighton Witte ’26, Cross Country

Elijah Haven ’27, Football

Malachi Jackson ’24, Football

Julian Faulk ’24, Golf

Scarlett Kirsch ’28, Golf

Lila Badeaux ’24, Powerlifting

Taylor Brasell ’24, Soccer

Elise Ford ’26, Soccer

Mollee Day ’25, Softball

Presleigh Hand ’26, Softball

Hayden Cowen ’27, Swimming

Emma Harper Blumentritt ’27, Swimming

George Harrod ’25, Tennis

Milo Johnston ’27, Tennis

Stella Boone ’24, Tennis

Helen Watts ’24, Tennis

Richard Montgomery ’26, Track and Field

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24, Track and Field

Kennedy Stewart ’24, Volleyball

COACH’S AWARDS

Easton Romano ’24, Baseball

Mason Lavergne ’24, Basketball

Joanie Bernhardt ’28, Basketball

Samay Mirpuri ’24, Cross Country

Disha Mathur ’25, Cross Country

Drew Bourgeois ’24, Football

Graham Thornton ’25, Golf

Londyn Thibodeaux ’26, Powerlifting

Ethan Courter ’24, Soccer

Alexa Lewis ’26, Soccer

Abby Weiner ’24, Softball

Jack McKearn ’27, Swimming

Ainsley Tucker ’28, Swimming

Blake Beale ’24, Tennis

Mallory Golightly ’24, Tennis

JJ Harris ’27, Track and Field

Leighton Witte ’26, Track and Field

Katherine McDonald ’27, Volleyball

TIGER TRADITION AWARDS

Cooper Sirk ’24, Baseball

Brayden Rabalais ’25, Basketball

Mollee Day ’25, Basketball

Tyler Thibodeaux ’24, Cross Country

Madeline Boudreaux ’26, Cross Country

Oscar Boatner ’24, Football

Clay Pecue ’24, Golf

Lila Badeaux ’24, Powerlifting

Mason Elliott ’24, Soccer

Ella Bremer ’26, Soccer

Claire McIlwian ’24, Softball

Hayden Hingle ’24, Swimming

Avery Tucker ’26, Swimming

Mason Elliott ’24, Tennis

Stella Boone ’24, Tennis

Tyler Thibodeaux ’24, Track and Field

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24, Track and Field

Lily Stringfellow ’25, Volleyball

Jac Comeaux Georgetown University | Football

Drew Bourgeois Louisiana Tech | Baseball

Malachi Jackson Louisiana Christian University | Football

Nevaeh Kimmie Elon University | Track and Field

Mason Lavergne U.S. Merchant Marine Academy | Basketball

Easton Romano Centenary College | Baseball

Cooper Sirk Belhaven University | Baseball

Kennedy Stewart West Virginia State University | Volleyball

Helen Watts Spring Hill College | Tennis

Clay Pecue ’24 receives the 2023-2024 Sportsmanship Award from Athletic Director Neil Weiner.

A thletics

32

Wright with Coach Chad

’07,

Jordan Wright Jersey Retirement

THE #32 JERSEY WORN BY FORMER TIGER BASKETBALL

STAR JORDAN WRIGHT ’19 was retired on Monday, January 29, in a special on-court presentation held prior to the evening’s varsity basketball game.

“Jordan is the definition of a scholar-athlete. He is a very talented basketball player and an even better person,” said Dunham Basketball Coach Chad Myers ’97, who coached Jordan for four years. “He had a tremendous impact on our program. Along with Coach Jonathan Pixley and his teammates, Jordan set the foundation for our program and put us on the map.”

During his prep career, Wright led Dunham to a 2018 LHSAA Division III state title and two runner-up finishes during his high school career. In addition to being a three-time All-State, All-District, and All-Metro selection and two-time All-District MVP, Wright also was nominated for the opportunity to play in

the 2019 McDonald’s All-American Game and chosen to tour Germany in the spring of 2018 as part of the USA Select team.

Wright, a 6’6’’ guard, signed with Vanderbilt University in 2019 and was named the 2022 SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year for men’s basketball. After completing degrees in communications studies and human and organization development, Jordan transferred to LSU in 2023 to play during his final year of eligibility.

“Jordan has represented The Dunham School well while playing at Vanderbilt and now at LSU,” Coach Myers continued. “I am very proud of him and his accomplishments, but more importantly, I am proud of the man that he has become. Jordan deserves to be the first basketball player at The Dunham School to have his number retired.”

Hayden Jennings Named Head Baseball Coach

Hayden Jennings is the new head coach for baseball. Coach Jennings has spent the past 13 years playing, learning, and coaching baseball at multiple levels, including professional baseball after being drafted out of high school by the Washington Nationals in the 6th Round. Coach Jennings most recently served Evangel Christian Academy in Shreveport, La., where he taught Bible and coached baseball and football. His coaching philosophy emphasizes not only developing skilled athletes but also, and most importantly, nurturing their character and faith through Christian mentorship and leadership.

Jordan

Myers

his parents Yvette and Tracy Jordan, and former Coach Jonathan Pixley

BASEBALL

Academic All-State

Ben Barton ’24

Clay Pecue ’24

Louis Phillips ’24

Cooper Sirk ’24

Houston Theriot ’24

All-State Honorable

Mention

Joshua Lim ’25

All-Metro 1st Team

Easton Romano ’24

Joshua Lim ’25

All-District 1st Team

Sione Albert ’24

Drew Bourgeois ’24

Jace Crane ’25

Joshua Lim ’25

William Nikolaus ’25

Easton Romano ’24

Cooper Sirk ’24

Logan Sorrel ’26

BOYS BASKETBALL

DISTRICT CHAMPIONS

All-District Coach of the Year

Chad Myers ’97

Academic All-State

Nathan Hays ’24

All-State 2nd Team

Elijah Haven ’24

All-State Honorable

Mention

AJ Oliver ’26

All-District MVP

Elijah Haven ’27

All-District 1st Team

Elijah Haven ’27

Mason Lavergne ’24

AJ Oliver ’26

All-District Honorable

Mention

Gavin Blanton ’26

Brayden Rabalais ’25

GIRLS BASKETBALL

DISTRICT CHAMPIONS

All-District Coach of the Year

Hilary Morris

Academic All-State

Kari Johnson ’23

All-State 2nd Team

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24

All-State Honorable

Mention

Mollee Day ’25

All-District MVP

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24

All-District Defensive

Player of the Year

Mollee Day ’25

All-District 1st Team

Joanie Bernhardt ’28

Mollee Day ’25

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24

Stella Turner ’26

All-District Honorable Mention

Ava Johnson ’28

Bree Mills ’27

CROSS COUNTRY

Academic All-State

Ethan Courter ’24

Samy Mirpuri ’24

Tyler Thibodeaux ’24

FOOTBALL

DISTRICT CHAMPIONS

All-District Coach of the Year

Neil Weiner

Academic All-State

Oscar Boatner ’24

Louis Phillips ’24

Houston Theriot ’24

Mason Wild ’24

All-State

Drew Bourgeois ’24

Jac Comeaux ’24

Elijah Haven ’24

Malachi Jackson ’24

Logan Sorrel ’24

All-Metro 1st Team

Drew Bourgeois ’24

Jac Comeaux ’24

Elijah Haven ’24

Malachi Jackson ’24

All-District Offensive

MVP

Elijah Haven ’27

All-District Defensive

MVP

Malachi Jackson ’24

All-District 1st Team

Oscar Boatner ’24

Drew Bourgeois ’24

Jac Comeaux ’24

Elijah Haven ’27

Malachi Jackson ’24

Cole LeBlanc ’24

Grant Morgan ’25

Louis Phillips ’24

Logan Sorrel ’26

Mason Wild ’24

All-District 2nd Team

Andrew Bardwell ’26

Joshua Beychok ’25

Hopeland Eldridge ’25

Trevor Haman ’26

Rives Johnson ’25

Colin Pecue ’24

Houston Theriot ’24

All-District Honorable Mention

Connor Guidroz ’25

Jack Higginbotham ’25

BOYS GOLF

Academic All-State

Clay Pecue ’24

Julian Faulk ’24

POWERLIFTING

Academic All-State

Lila Badeaux ’24

BOYS SOCCER

Academic All-State

Aaron Allee ’24

Taylor Brassel ’24

Ethan Courter ’24

Mason Elliott ’24

All-District 1st Team

Taylor Brasell ’24

Gavin Byrd ’24

Mason Elliott ’24

Lukin Kelly ’28

All-District 2nd Team

Andrew Bardwell ’26

Ethan Courter ’24

Tyler Thibodeaux ’24

GIRLS SOCCER

All-District 1st Team

Ella Bremer ’26

Elise Ford ’25

Megan Harman ’26

All-District Honorable Mention

Brayden Carnaggio ’25

Ryen Lasseigne ’29

SOFTBALL

Academic All-State

Claire McIlwain ’24*

Anna Thompson ’24

All-State Honorable Mention

Claire McIlwain ’24

All-Metro 2nd Team

Claire McIlwain ’24

All-District 1st Team

Mollee Day ’25

Presleigh Hand ’26

Anna McIlwain ’26

Claire McIlwain ’24

Abby Weiner ’24

All-District 2nd Team

Anna Thompson ’24

Lynsey Washington ’27

SWIMMING

Academic All-State

Hayden Hingle ’24

BOYS TENNIS

Academic All-State

Mason Elliott ’24

Hayden Hingle ’24

All-Metro

George Harrod ’25

Milo Johnston ’27

GIRLS TENNIS

Academic All-State

Stella Boone ’24

Mallory Golightly ’24

Malyn Rolling ’24

All-Metro

Stella Boone ’24

Helen Watts ’24

BOYS TRACK AND FIELD

Academic All-State

Samay Mirpuri ’24*

Tyler Thibodeaux ’24*

District Champions (4x1 relay)

Jac Comeaux ’24

Trevor Haman ’26

JJ Harris ’27

Richard Montgomery ’26

All-District

Cooper Carnaggio ’28

Connor Fox ’28

JJ Harris ’27

Holt Hodges ’27

Joshua Lazard ’26

Samay Mirpuri ’24

David Owens ’28

Tyler Thibodeaux ’24

GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD

All-State

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24

Regional Champion (triple jump)

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24

All-Region

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24

District Champion (long jump; triple jump)

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24

District Champion (400m)

Madeline Boudreaux ’26

District Champions (4x8 relay)

Madeline Boudreaux ’26

Grace Schellack ’26

Leighton Witte ’26

Maggie Yarborough ’27

All-District

Madeline Boudreaux ’26

Brayden Carnaggio ’25

Nevaeh Kimmie ’24

Grace Shellac

Leighton Witte ’26

Maggie Yarborough ’27

VOLLEYBALL

Academic All-State

Kennedy Stewart ’24

All-State

Kennedy Stewart ’24

All-Metro 1st Team

Katherine McDonald ’27

Kennedy Stewart ’24

All-Metro Honorable Mention

Kennedi Owens ’27

All-District 1st Team

Katherine McDonald ’27

Kennedi Owens ’24

Kennedy Stewart ’24

All-District Honorable Mention

Isabelle Richardson ’27

Lily Stringfellow ’25

CAMPAIGN UPDATE

We are excited to report that the Dunham community has raised nearly $10 million towards our $16 million 40 & Forever Campaign goal. The rest of the campaign will focus on raising funds for much needed facility upgrades, including the addition of turf to the practice athletic field, restroom and concession stand renovations at the Dunham Stadium, the expansion of the Rollins Family Dining Hall, and the completion of phase II of the CarpenterRandall Science Center.

HONORING THE PAST.

SECURING THE FUTURE.

Fundraising initiatives

COMING SOON!

We are thrilled to announce that fundraising is complete for the new Lower School carpool porte cochere and covered walkway. This $125,000 campus improvement will provide coverage on rainy days, facilitate better traffic flow during morning and afternoon carpools, and allow for additional parking spaces. Contingent on supply chain delays, the goal is to have the project completed this summer and ready for the start of the 2024-2025 school year.

This project concludes phase II of the school’s safety and security upgrades as outlined in the current strategic plan. Previous safety enhancements include the addition of second security resource officer, campuswide security cameras, and key card access on the exterior doors of the Brown-Holt Chapel Arts Center, the Rollins Family Dining Hall, and the Carpenter-Randall Science Center.

To learn more about the 40 & Forever Campaign and other proposed capital projects, scan the QR code or visit dunhamschool.org/ giving/40-and-forevercampaign

Lori Latuso Named Liz Peters Master Teacher

by Phyllis Alexander

The Liz Peters Master Teacher Endowment was established in 2008 to provide supplemental income for teachers who have demonstrated excellence in teaching and further the school’s efforts to attract and retain outstanding teachers. The endowment is named for the late Liz Peters who was one the first teachers hired at The Dunham School and truly exemplified the qualities of a master teacher.

THE DUNHAM SCHOOL IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE LORI LATUSO as the recipient of the 2024 Liz Peters Master Teacher Award. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding teaching at The Dunham School, with the intent to inspire excellence in the classroom and ensure the employment and retention of master teachers to form a nucleus of strong teaching faculty for the school’s future.

The award was presented to Mrs. Latuso during commencement exercises on May 18, by Head of School Steve Eagleton; Dean of Faculty Deedra LaPlace; Bill Peters; Patti Peters Dowling ’92; and Ellie Dowling ’26

“Through the years, Lori has spent countless hours mentoring new teachers and leading her second-grade team with strength and grace,” said Mrs. LaPlace. “She continually demonstrates creativity and innovation in her lessons and has been a true role model for her fellow faculty as a lifelong learner and first adopter when it comes to technology integration and new pedagogical approaches.”

During her 14-year tenure Dunham, Mrs. Latuso has served the school faithfully as a Lower School lead teacher, worship leader for chapel, and advance team member for biblical worldview integration. Her enthusiasm and willingness to go above and beyond in any situation is exemplary and is a testament to her walk with Christ as a servant leader. Her authenticity and love for the Lord is on display every day as she reflects Jesus in carrying out the mission of The Dunham School.

“Humbled, honored, and thankful are just a few words to describe my feelings at being chosen as this year’s Master Teacher for The Dunham School,” Mrs. Latuso said. “Each new school year, I ask myself how I can best serve my students, my families, and my school. Whether it’s through new and innovative ways to teach, or the tried-and-true foundational methods, I always aim to keep learning exciting and fun. There is nothing like that moment when you see a student ‘get it’!”

“However, even more than those classroom practices, my thoughts go to our true Master Teacher, Jesus Christ. Each day, it is so important to me to bring the love of Christ into what we teach and for students to see the beauty in all that He has created for us to learn about,” Mrs. Latuso continued. “I am excited to continue to walk in this calling of being a teacher, and my hope is that as my students continue to grow, they will always look back on their time with me and see how much their hearts and minds grew academically and in Christ.”

To learn more or make a gift to one of our endowment funds, visit our website or contact Director of Development Kelly DeRossette at kelly.derossette@dunhamschool.org

2024 Liz Peters Master Teacher Lori Latuso (front, left) pictured with previous master teacher award recipients (clockwise from left) Lisa Stilley, Mitch McIlwain ’94, Amy Dykes, Angi Eagleton, Valerie Jaques, Rob Sullivan, Tiffinie Burychka, Mary Ellen Courville, and Joey Thibodeaux

Tensey Pricer Memorial Scholarship Established

The Dunham School is honored to announce the creation of The Tensey Pricer Memorial Scholarship Fund, established to commemorate the remarkable life of Mr. Tensey Pricer who passed away unexpectedly on March 29, 2024. More than 70 donors, including family, friends, co-workers, and insurance agencies from across Louisiana, contributed memorial gifts that surpassed the $50,000 principal requirement needed to create a named scholarship fund.

Mr. Pricer is remembered for his servant’s heart, inspiring faith journey, and dedication to the word of God. The memorial fund is intended to encourage those characteristics in the next generation of compassionate Christian leaders by underwriting an annual scholarship awarded to a Dunham student who demonstrates empathetic listening, selfless service, a desire to foster strong peer relationships, and a godly character that is evident to all. Like Tensey Pricer, this student exhibits the Christlike qualities of humility, compassion, and grace. The first recipient of The Tensey Pricer Memorial Scholarship will be named at the end of the 2024-2025 school year.

Mr. Pricer was the husband of Dunham’s Director of Admission and Enrollment Michelle Pricer; father of Dunham

graduates London Pricer Jackson ’17 and Becket Pricer ’21; grandfather of Ella Jackson ’37 and Layla Jackson; and uncle of Sarah Slaton ’28, Summer Slaton ’28, and Charlotte Slaton ’27. A beloved member of the Dunham community, he had a heart for service and was a frequent volunteer throughout his long association with the school.

Mr. Pricer served as president of Pawbackers and the Gridiron Club, managed and coordinated the press box for home football games for many years, and was a founding member of the Dunham Men’s Club. Outside of Dunham, he volunteered as a coach for the YMCA and Istrouma Baptist Sports Organization. As agency relations manager for LWCC, he built strong relationships with hundreds of insurance agents across the state and supported the company’s philanthropic efforts by serving on the company’s Cornerstone Committee, leading its Corporate Cup team, and organizing statewide service projects.

The Tensey Pricer Memorial Scholarship Fund will be invested with the school’s other Share Dunham Scholarship Funds until the principal reaches $100,000. After that time, it will convert into a stand-alone endowment that generates a scholarship valued at $4,000 or more each school year.

“And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” - Hebrews 12:1-2

Michelle and Tensey Pricer with their children, Becket Pricer ’21 and London Pricer Jackson ’17, and granddaughters Layla Jackson and Ella Jackson ’37

Tensey Pricer

The Dunham Fund Surpasses $800,000 Campaign Goal!

THANKS TO OUR FAITHFUL AND GENEROUS COMMUNITY, WE RAISED $820,222 FOR THE DUNHAM FUND , including a $100,000 challenge gift from an anonymous donor. Every gift played a role in helping us reach this milestone. We are thrilled about the impact your donations will have on our students, teachers, and overall mission to educate minds and hearts for Christ!

FACULTY

The Dunham Fund assists the school in hiring and retaining outstanding teachers and in providing ongoing professional development for the individuals who have the greatest impact on our students’ lives.

SCHOLARSHIP

The Dunham Fund assists the school in providing nearly $2,000,000 annually in merit and need-based scholarships to academically talented students who otherwise might not have access to a Dunham education.

AREA OF GREATEST NEED

The Dunham Fund provides the general operating budget with unrestricted funds that are used to support the school’s highest priorities in areas such as academics, arts, technology, or campus improvements.

Thank you!

The Dunham Fund plays a vital $4,000,000 role in the success of the 40 & Forever Campaign. Your best gift to The Dunham Fund each year will help ensure that we meet our campaign goals and assist in funding the school’s strategic plan for growth and development. To make a gift to The Dunham Fund visit dunhamschool.org/giveonline.

Leave Your

The Dunham Legacy Society honors donors who have included The Dunham School in their estate plans. Bequests and other planned gifts, including retirement accounts, charitable remainder trusts, life insurance, or gift annuities, help secure the School’s financial sustainability and impact the lives of future generations of students.

We encourage you to contact our development office to discuss the options and set up a legacy gift that is most impactful for you and your family. For more information, please visit www.dunham school.org/plannedgiving or contact Kelly DeRossette at kelly.derossette@dunhamschool.org.

FOUNDERS DINNER 2024

The Dunham School honored 2024 distinguished award recipients Claudia and Gary Phillips, Brad Watts ’87, and Kelly Hornsby ’89 at the Founders Dinner on April 27. The evening also paid tribute to the school’s founders, current and former board members, volunteers, and milestone donors. The Founders Dinner is an annual event designed to celebrate God’s faithfulness and express gratitude to members of the Dunham community for their support.

Clockwise from top left: Jon and Caroline Eenigenburg and Kaela and Chad Williams; Princeton and Dadie Bardwell and Sally and Johnny Koch; Shannon and Jeff Wild; Kelly Hornsby ’89 and Jacob Zumo ’07; Melissa Gremillion, Lizzy Ladner, Rachael Rolling, Tiffinie Burychka, and Carli Nesheiwat; Steve Eagleton and Taylor Bennett; and Will and Mackensie Heath.

Claudia and Gary Phillips

Since they first stepped onto campus in the 1990s, Claudia and Gary Phillips have been champions for The Dunham School. Together, the Phillips have set a high standard for serving and welcoming others into the Dunham community.

Gary served on the board of trustees from 1996 -2004, utilizing his financial mind and business acumen to advance the financial position of the school.

He continues to be a trusted guide and resource for our board, most recently by reviewing the plan for debt reduction and elimination. An avid volunteer, Claudia served on countless committees and worked behind the scenes at many events. She remains a steadfast prayer warrior for the school and many of the families she has come to know over the years.

Throughout their association with The Dunham School, the Phillips have been servant leaders as well

as faithful and joyful givers. It is difficult to find a philanthropic effort that the Phillips family has not supported at Dunham. From Carnival draw down ticket sales to capital projects, their influence and generosity has been significant.

Claudia and Gary’s three children, Liz Phillips Hargis ’13, Robert Phillips ’10, and Andrew Phillips ’08 graduated from Dunham. As parents of alumni, they understand firsthand the impact a Dunham education can have on a family and a community. Their heartfelt desire to support our mission to educate the mind and the heart for Christ has ensured that future generations of Dunham students will have an extraordinary experience. It is our honor to recognize Claudia and Gary Phillips as the 2024 recipients of the Katharine O. Dunham Philanthropy Award.

The Katharine O. Dunham Philanthropy Award was established to recognize donors who have demonstrated, through direct financial support, outstanding charitable responsibility and whose generosity encourages others to take philanthropic leadership roles at The Dunham School. Motivated and dedicated to seeing The Dunham School succeed, they have championed fundraising for the school. Recipients exemplify the same heart of giving demonstrated by Mrs. Dunham, a heart of thoughtfulness and sacrifice grounded in a desire to see The Dunham School’s mission endure.

Claudia and Gary Phillips (center), pictured with Abby and Robert Phillips ’10 (right) and Elizabeth ’13 and Chris Hargis (left)

Brad Watts ’87

Brad Watts ’87 has been a part of the Dunham community since the 1980s. Following his graduation from Trafton Academy in 1987, he became a successful businessman but never lost touch with the school and continued to encourage other Trafton, Chapel Trafton, and Dunham alumni to stay involved.

In 2009, Brad was one of only a handful of alumni who played in the first Dunham Cup Golf Classic hosted by the school’s newly formed Alumni Association. Based on that experience, he joined the Alumni Council and served as co-chair of the golf tournament committee for nearly 15 years. As co-chair of the event, Brad not only helped plan and organize the tournament, but also was instrumental in recruiting more alumni to play each year. Thanks to his leadership and service, The Dunham Cup Golf

Classic has raised more than $150,000 in funding used to grow alumni outreach programs.

After his son, Lawrence ’22, and daughter, Helen ’24, enrolled at Dunham in 2018, Brad stepped forward as a parent volunteer to support their participation in and love for sports. In 2022, he led the efforts to recognize retiring teacher Sherry Swanner on Alumni Giving Day, noting the impact she had on his own life as well as the lives of his children.

Brad’s devotion to his alma mater, his service to the Alumni Association, and his desire to grow the Dunham Cup Golf Classic have left an indelible mark on the Dunham community. It is a great honor to present him with the 2024 Tabb Family Distinguished Service Award.

The Tabb Family Distinguished Service Award recognizes and celebrates an outstanding volunteer who has gone above and beyond by using his or her time and talents to better The Dunham School. So many volunteers have made such an amazing impact on our community but perhaps none more so than Mary and Donald Tabb. Without their influence, prayers, sacrifice, and determination, The Dunham School would not be here today.

Brad Watts ’87 (third from left) with (from left) Helen Watts ’24, Kim Watts, Janet Watts, Larry Watts, and Lawrence Watts ’22

2024 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA AWARD

Kelly Hornsby ’89

For more than three decades, Kelly Hornsby ’89 has had a passion to serve others and to share the love of Jesus with those around her. After graduating from The Chapel Trafton School in 1989, Kelly attended Louisiana State University, where she studied education. She began her teaching career with the East Baton Rouge Parish School System before moving to Dallas to teach at Trinity Christian Academy.

Kelly’s faith and her desire to serve others intersected during a mission trip to Romania. The experience was so powerful that she returned to the Eastern European country five times before finally being asked to serve permanently in a group home for orphans. Following the call God placed upon her heart, Kelly left her teaching job at the age of 33 to focus on raising the funds she would need to cover her basic necessities as a missionary and provide additional support for the group home.

In September of 2004, Kelly moved to Romania where she changed the lives of countless children through her work at Livada Orphan Care. Many of the children she served had experienced great trauma, and the group home became a place to show them God’s love. Kelly spent five years in Romania and became the assistant director of the orphan ministry before returning to the United States.

After her return, Kelly became the children’s pastor at The Fellowship Bible Church in Dallas and spent the next seven years building a team of pastors and helping people find Jesus, community, and places to grow and serve. Kelly is currently the discipleship pastor for Fellowship Dallas.

For her service to others and her desire not only to share the love of Jesus but to teach the next generation of compassionate Christians and leaders, it is our honor to recognize Kelly as our 2024 Distinguished Alumna.

The Distinguished Alumna Award recognizes a graduate who has made significant contributions to society and whose accomplishments, affiliations, and careers have honored the mission and legacy of The Dunham School.

Kelly Hornsby ’89 (second from right) with her parents, Ken and Wanda Hornsby, and her sister-in-law, Sarah Hornsby

Athletics Hall of Fame

The Dunham School inducted five new members into the Athletics Hall of Fame in April. Former Tiger athletes Brady Broussard ’94, Tyler Moore ’11, David Patrick ’95, Jimmy Robbins ’87, and Caroline McKey Younger ’11 join an elite group of alumni and coaches recognized for athletic accomplishments and character.

During his high school athletic career, BRADY BROUSSARD was a four-year letterman in football, basketball, and baseball and was named Academic All-State in all three sports. In 1993, he was named All-Parish Quarterback after leading the team to a district championship and its first undefeated season in school history. In basketball, he was a member of the 1,000 Point Club and a three-time 1st Team All-District player. In baseball, Brady was named 1st Team AllDistrict and 1st Team All-State. Following his nomination as a finalist for The Advocate’s Athlete of the Year in the spring of his senior year, Brady enrolled at Louisiana Tech University where he played one season as a wide receiver in football.

TYLER MOORE played both football and baseball at Dunham. During his senior season, he was named District MVP, All-Metro, and 1st Team All-State in baseball after batting .574 with 15 home runs. At the collegiate level, Tyler played baseball for LSU where he was the 2014 Tournament MVP and National Collegiate Player of the Week. On three occasions during his LSU career, Tyler delivered a dramatic, late-inning game-tying or game-winning hit. He was drafted in the sixth round by the NY Mets.

DAVID PATRICK was a member of the Australian National Team (basketball) before enrolling at The Chapel Trafton School in the fall of 1994. During his senior season as a Tiger, David was named District MVP, First Team All-Parish, and Louisiana Player of the Year. In addition, he was selected to play in the Louisiana State High School All-Star Game and continued to compete for Australia at the youth national level. Following high school, David signed with Syracuse University where he played as a freshman before transferring to the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now University of Louisiana at Lafayette). David played professional basketball overseas for five years before working as a scout for the NBA and serving as an assistant coach at Nicholls State University, St. Mary’s College, LSU, and TCU. From 2018-2020, David was the head coach at UC Riverside before becoming the head coach at Sacramento State. He now returns to Baton Rouge as associate head coach for men’s basketball at LSU.

Kelbie and Tyler Moore ’11

JIMMY ROBBINS was a starter on the 1987 basketball and baseball state championship teams. In basketball, he was named All-District, All-Metro, and Final Four MVP after making the two free throws in the final round to secure the state championship title for the team. After graduating from The Chapel Schools/Trafton Academy, Jimmy continued his collegiate career at the University of Arkansas-Monticello where he played both basketball and baseball.

CAROLINE MCKEY YOUNGER was a three-sport athlete in high school, excelling at volleyball, track and field, and tennis. In track and field, Caroline was named All-District. She was a five-year letterman in tennis and was named All-District for five years; All-Metro for four years in a row; and All-State for her last three seasons. In 2011, Caroline claimed the doubles state championship title. After graduating from Dunham, she played volleyball for Millsaps College and was named All-Conference, All-Academic All-Conference, and All-South Region by the American Volleyball Coaches Association.

McKey Younger ’11 and former Lady Tigers volleyball coach Donna Pixley

2024 inductees Brady Broussard ’94 (second from right) and David Patrick ’95 (far right) with previous Hall of Fame honorees Paul Jenkins ’94 and Sean Cangelosi ’96

Jimmy Robbins ’87 with Athletic Director Neil Weiner

Caroline

Crawfish Boil Alumni Weekend 2024

Dunham alumni gathered in the front circle on Saturday, April 26, for the Annual Alumni Crawfish Boil.

Above, left: David and Yvette Wyatt Wheeler ’87; right: Brad Watts ’87, Jimmy Robbins ’87, Allyson Jones Hingle ’92, and Ben Jones ’90. Immediate left: Andrew D’Aubin ’40, son of Ashley Baxter D’Aubin ’10 and Joel D’Aubin ’10

John Stewart Coast ’90 and Ben Jones ’90

Above: Joey Thibodeaux, Janine Jones, and Brian Jones ’86; below: Amy Evans Broussard ’96, Melissa Wilson, Gayden Jones Landry ’97, and Robin Dufilho Narez ’96

80s Reunion

Susan Smith Peterson ’84, Tanya Brand, Tad Nicolosi ’84, and Amy Foesterling Johnson ’84

Below: Rich Seaward ’87, Kristi Brunet Shuckrow ’87, Delia Clark Smith ’87, Stephanie Lett Nicholson ’87, Kim Kendall Crompton ’87, Denene Barlow Dudley ’87, Michelle Brignac Rabalais ’87, Maggie Zuber ’87, Matt Melder ’87, Brad Watts ’87, and Jimmy Robbins ’87

Alumni GATHERINGS

Former Homecoming Queens Amy Evans Broussard ’96, Jency Griffin Hogan ’97, Brooke Landreneau LaCombe ’98, Katherine Treppendahl ’03, Alexa Haman ’16, Maci Jackson ’18, and Sara Kathrun Breland ’22 greet Tiger fans at the Homecoming game on September 29.

Homecoming

Members of the Class of 2003 kicked off their 20th reunion by participating in the annual Homecoming Parade. Pictured are (from left) Katherine Treppendahl, Elizabeth Renoud Johnson, Bibi Ramos Hebert, Kathryn Jones, Emily Bardwell Guillory, and Britney Wallace Smith.

Alumni who returned for the Homecoming Pep Rally included (front, from left) Katherine Bollinger LeJeune ’04, Robin Dufilho Narez ’96, Emmy Hays ’18, Maggie Kate Coast Godberry ’19, Molly Coast ’23, Kristi Courtney Watts ’90, Alexandra Scardina ’18, Allyson Jones Hingle ’92, Jenna Chutz Prather ’02, Ashley Baxter D’Aubin ’10, (back, from left) Laurent Tucker Ketteringham ’98, Gayden Jones Landry ’97, Mason Bourgeois ’18, Katherine Ellard Dantin ’02, Travis Myers ’17, Mitch McIlwain ’94, Sean Owens ’02, Ryan Gisclair ’97, and Christian Johnson ’11.

Tigers Too

Tigers Too and their alumni parents enjoyed on-field recognition at a varsity football game last fall.

Holiday Party

Alumni gathered on December 22 at Murphy’s on Chimes for the annual alumni holiday party.

Grace McArthur ’17, Jaya Ammons ’17, Britni Alvarez ’17, and Kristin Day ’17

Erik Semien ’17, Josh Matthews ’17, Chad Myers ’97, and Harris McKay 17

Members of the Class of 2018 celebrated their five-year reunion during the Christmas party.

Alumni GATHERINGS

the Class of ’ 92

celebrated their 30-year reunion. Pictured are Christine Barker Chafin, Kelly Duncan, Allyson Jones Hingle, Patti Peters Dowling, and Mary McElveen Upton.

the Class of ’ 03

(front row, from left) Heather Keenan Miller, Rita Yawn Goodrich, Abbey Constant Martrain, Lindsay Walters Anders, Seth Michaelson, Adam Clary, Mitchell Haynes, Jay Fendlason, Elizabeth Johnston, (back row) Maggie Drake Holmes, Sarah McKey Waggoner, Sarah Spiller Mayo, Emily Bardwell, Guillory, Molly Smith Whitt, Katherine Treppendahl, Lacey Galliano, Kathryn Jones, Robert Johnson, Tinsley Boe Somers, Beth Renoud, Jace Tadie, Britney Wallace Smith, Bibi Ramos Hebert, Meghan Parrino Carmichael, Kristen Ramey Adams, Rebekah Kiggans Owens, Melinda Tyler McCollister, and Kylie Stewart

Dunham Cup Golf Classic 2023

A large group of alumni played in the Dunham Cup Golf Classic in October. Pictured are (from left) Quincy Moreaux ’17, John Howard ’87, James Price ’13, Ryan May ’13, Hayden Dudley ’20, Caden Eagleton ’20, Tré Nelson ’14, Justin Goings ’16, Mitchell Haynes ’03, Sean Cangelosi ’96, Ryan Gisclair ’97, Mitch McIlwain ’94, Joey Thibodeaux, Robert Rimes ’91, Todd Kinchen ’87, Jacob Kraft ’04, Kent Wells ’87, Brian Dantin ’96, Sean Owens ’03, Shane Dantin ’05, Chase Dantin ’02, John Stott ’10, Chris May ’09, Reid May ’16, Drew Miller ’08, Bobby Nichols ’16, Hunter Kinchen ’10, and Joel D’Aubin ’10.

Alumna Spotlight

CLASS OF 2018 CLASS PRESIDENT

Maci Jackson

The Dunham Alumni Association recently caught up with 2018 class president Maci Jackson. Maci, who graduated from LSU with a degree in business and now works as a financial advisor with Morgan Stanley, shares some of her favorite memories from Dunham and offers advice for students interested in working in the financial sector.

What is your favorite Dunham memory?

Senior Beach Retreat was definitely a top memory. It started out scary because you got assigned random roommates and had a teacher as your chaperone. But, by the end of it, you didn’t even notice that you weren’t hanging out with your closest friends. It really gave me an opportunity to connect with people outside of my circle, which I loved.

What was your favorite Senior Year prank?

The Class of 2018 (my class) prank was my favorite. We all set up tents and camped out the night before our last day, which was a fun experience. Our main prank was releasing chickens on

campus. Each was placed in different spots, including Mrs. McIlwain’s office, the dining hall, and the boys’ locker room.

Tell

us a Field Day story.

The night before our senior year field day, our entire grade gathered at someone’s house, and we had a crawfish boil and bonfire and then practiced for our events the next day. This wasn’t something we had to do but wanted to, and it ultimately helped us win field day.

Who was your favorite teacher or coach, and why?

I really can’t pick one teacher who was my favorite, because they all had such different qualities that were great. I will say the two that had a lasting impact are Nikki Slaton and Sherry Swanner. I graduated from high school five years ago, and neither of them has missed a single birthday of mine and will randomly reach out to check on me. That is very rare for a high school teacher to do, and it means a lot!

What do you enjoy most about your work at Morgan Stanley?

I am passionate about being a financial advisor at Morgan Stanley because I’m able to provide clients relief through the generation of detailed plans for their financial future. My primary objective is to deliver customized programs designed to preserve and grow wealth—ultimately to simplify our clients’ lives so they can enjoy retirement.

How did Dunham prepare you for college and career?

Dunham helped prepare me for college by bringing in different recruiters each week from universities around the country. We were able to learn about a variety of different schools without having to tour the universities in person. Also, Dunham held career days where different professionals would come and talk to us about their careers. Not only did I learn about so many careers I didn’t even know existed, but I also formed great connections that will last a lifetime!

What advice would you give to students who are considering a career in the financial sector?

I would say that if you know an adult who has a job that you may be interested in exploring, reach out and ask if they would meet with you. The mom of one of my friends from high school met with me, and it gave me a realistic picture of what the profession is like. Dunham has so many connections, I would recommend utilizing them.

1986

Ray Debetaz started a new position as community sales manager for Alvarez Construction. He says he is excited about the opportunity to work for a business that gives so much time and energy back to the community with projects like the St. Jude Dream Home giveaway.

1987

Bunnie Cannon is the assistant dean for outreach and strategic initiatives for the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine.

1994

Jami Hollingsworth Redmond was crowned Mrs. Louisiana American in May of 2023 and competed in Vegas at the Mrs. America pageant last August.

2005

Shane Dantin was named one of Greater Baton Rouge Business Report’s Forty Under 40 for 2023. Shane is the president and owner of Pinnacle Exterior Construction and Dantin Builders.

2008

Jenna Bond Alford and husband Kevin welcomed Olivia Jane on August 11, 2023, at Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge.

2010

Hayden Clark was named one of Greater Baton Rouge Business Report’s Forty Under 40 for 2023. Hayden is the owner

and CEO of Iron Tribe Fitness in Baton Rouge.

Joel D’Aubin started a new position as the associate college director for the growing Refuge College Ministry at The Chapel on LSU’s campus where more than 500 students attend weekly Sunday evening services. Joel leads worship

Seventeen former Tigers are currently members of the faculty or staff at Dunham. Pictured are (front row, from left) Caroline Boswell ’18, Ashley Baxter D’Aubin ’10, Katherine Bollinger Lejeune ’04, (middle row) Brittany Hunter Anders ’02, Nicole Cotten Callac ’08, Allyson Jones Hingle ’92, Morgan Gremillion Barkas ’09, Rebekah Kiggans Owens ’03, Alyssa Deason ’16, (back row) Beau Dantin ’04, Mitch McIlwain ’94, Mason Bourgeois ’18, Chad Myers ’97, Elizabeth Butts Singletary ’04, Jason Wilson ’07, and Christian Johnson ’11. Not pictured: C. Jaye Miller ’07

Bunny Cannon ’87

Jami Hollingsworth Redmond ’94

Congratulations to Tiger alumni Shane Dantin ’05 and Hayden Clark ’10 for being named to Greater Baton Rouge Business Report’s Forty Under 40 for 2023.

’10 leads Sunday evening worship at The Chapel.

Milestones

MARRIAGES

Rebecca Lee ’13 to Casey Lowery, November 6, 2022

Aline Moreaux ’15 to Lawson Nguyen ’15, November 11, 2023

Tim Coles ’16 to Mary Burchill, December 17, 2022

Aishia Brady ’16 to Zachary Miller, January 6, 2024

Sophie Tranchina ’16 to Marchello Caruso, May 25, 2024

Kelsey Day ’18 to Harrison Bath, April 1, 2023

BIRTHS & ADOPTONS

Olivia Jane Alford to Kevin and Jenna Bond Alford ’08, August 11, 2023

Amelia “Millie” Claire LaBorde to Chris and Danielle LeBlanc LaBorde ’10, June 20, 2023

Brady Hollis Kinchen to Lauren and Hunter Kinchen ’10, November 10, 2023

Emma Katherine David to Sara McClelland David ’10 and Blake David ’10, July 14, 2023

Mackenzie Layne Younger to Luke and Caroline McKey Younger ’11, October 30, 2023

as well as the college student staff members.

Sara McClelland David and Blake David welcomed their second child, Emma Katherine David, on July 14, 2023. She is welcomed by her big brother, Jacob (3).

Hunter Kinchen and his wife, Lauren, welcomed their fourth child, Brady Hollis Kinchen, in November. Brady joins his big sisters, Remi ’36 and Piper (3), and big brother Asher (2).

Danielle LeBlanc LaBorde and her husband, Chris, welcomed their second child, Amelia “Millie” Claire LaBorde, on June 20, 2023. Millie joins her big brother, Ezra (2).

Olivia Jane Alford, daughter of Keven and Jenna Bond Alford ’08

Joel D’Aubin

2011

Caroline McKey Younger and her husband, Luke, welcomed their second daughter, Mackenzie Layne Younger, on October 30, 2023. Her big sister, Kate (2), loves her! Caroline was inducted into Dunham’s Athletics Hall of Fame in April.

2012

Emily Goldsmith is a second-year Ph.D. student in English at the University of Southern Mississippi. In addition to teaching world literature, rhetoric and composition, and creative writing, Emily assists with The Gravestone Project, a digital humanities collective, and has presented academic work at the International Narrative Conference, NASSR ’23, and the Annual Pop Culture Conference. Emily earned an MFA in creative writing from the University of Kentucky in 2021.

2013

Rebecca Lee married Casey Lowery on November 6, 2022, at The Greenery in Amite, Louisiana. Tigers in the wedding party incled her maid of honor, Susannah LeBlanc ’13, and her brother, Ron Lee ’14, who was a groomsman.

Jacob and Emma Katherine David, son and daughter of Sara McClelland David ’10 and Blake David ’10.

Chris and Danielle LeBlanc LaBorde ’10 with their children, Ezra and Millie.

Lauren and Hunter Kinchen ’10 with their children Remi ’36, Brady, Asher, and Piper.

McKey Younger ’11 with her husband, Luke, and their daughters, Kate and Mackenzie.

Veterinarian Mackenzie Gremillion May ’13 came to campus in February to talk with Dunham PreK-4 students about pet safety and the different animals she cares for in her clinic.

2015

Aline Moreaux and Lawson Nguyen married on November 11, 2023, at the Moreaux family home in Baton Rouge.

Alumni in the wedding party included Natalie Do ’37, Grace Foil ’15, Quincy Moreaux ’17, Sophie Moreaux ’19, Ryan Ngo ’14, Larry Nguyen ’12, and Sarah Whitlow ’15

2016

Aishia Brady married Zachary Miller on January 6, 2024, in New Orleans. The ceremony was held at Immaculate

Conception Jesuit Church, and the reception was at the Roosevelt Hotel Blue Room. Tigers in the wedding included Ali Brady ’18, Sarah Brady ’22, Bailey Davis ’16, Sophie Tranchina Caruso ’16, and Ashton Holmes Williams ’16

Caroline

Casey and Rebecca Lee Lowery ’13

Mackenzie Gremillion May ’13 visited with Dunham PreK-4 students while they were completing their classroom unit on pets.

Tranchina Caruso ’16 with her bridesmaids, including Aine Muhumuza ’16 (left) and Aisha Brady Miller ’16 (second from left).

Gabe Bostick ’22, Brycen Brown ’18, Gary Fagan ’18, Gray Fagan ’15, Ryan Fagan ’14, Suzie Fagan ’21, Ann Gorman, and Jimmy Douglas were in attendance. The Millers live in Austin, Texas, where Zach attends The University of Texas School of Law. Aishia is a pediatric oncology dietitian at Dell Children’s Blood and Cancer Center.

Tim Coles married Mary Burchill in December of 2022 at the Country Club of Louisiana. Tigers in the wedding included Ethan Coles ’20 and Sam Summers ’20 Lance Hahn, who served as Tim’s mentor when he was chapel prefect at Dunham, officiated the ceremony. Tim and Mary met at TCU, where he was one of the first Dunham graduates to attend. Tim is grateful to have played a small role in converting fellow Tigers into Frogs! Tim was recently named the creative director of Melara Enterprises, the parent company behind local brands.

225 Magazine, Greater Baton Rouge Business Report, inRegister Magazine, StudioE, Launch Media, and the Business Report Leadership Academy.

Sophie Tranchina married Marchello Caruso on May 25, in a mountaintop ceremony in North Carolina. Aine Muhumuza and Aishia Brady Miller were two of Sophie’s bridesmaids.

2017

Summer Whittington graduated from the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center in May of 2023, with a Juris Doctor and graduate diploma in comparative law. She sat for and passed the Louisiana Bar Exam in July and now practices commercial insurance defense at Taylor, Wellons, Politz, & Duhe, LLC., in Baton Rouge.

2018

Kelsey Day married Harrison Bath on April 1, 2023 in Baton Rouge at The Chapel on LSU’s campus. Tigers in the wedding included Katie Day ’18, Madeline Johnson ’18, Amanda Summers Lamarque ’16, Charlie Myers ’27, Abby Ryan Myers ’28, and Julia Summers ’18

Aline Moreaux ’15 and Lawson Nguyen ’15

Summer Whittington ’17

Sophie

2019

Former Tiger placekicker Evan Light is a member of the football coaching staff at William & Mary.

Kobe Semien was featured on the cover of West Point Magazine last fall. Kobe is in his final year at the United States Military Academy, where he is a first class cadet and also plays wide receiver on the Army Sprint football team.

Houston Texans cornerback Derek Stingley, Jr., was named AFC Defensive Player of the Month in December. He is one of only six players in franchise history to earn the honor.

2020

Caroline Bardwell won her individual event at the National Championships for the Intercollegiate Horse Showing Association in May. Caroline is LSU’s first National Champion in equestrian.

2022

Gabe Bostick returned to Dunham in March to make a donation in support of the Dunham fine arts department.

Stay connected with the school and fellow alumni by submitting updates about your career, weddings, births, and other important milestones. When submitting photographs, please send a high-resolution file and include a full caption that identifies everyone pictured. Send updates and photos to alumni@dunhamschool.org. Submissions may be edited for length, clarity, and style.

Zach and Aishia Brady Miller ’16

Mary and Tim Coles ’16

Emma Spencer ’20, pictured with Director of Spiritual Formation Lance Hahn, returned to campus last fall to speak at Upper School chapel.

2023 - 2024 DUNHAM ALUMNI COUNCIL

Thank you to the members of our Alumni Council for their continued service to the school.

Ryan Gisclair ’97

President

Amy Evans Broussard ’96

Vice President

Ashley Baxter D’Aubin ’10

Secretary

Tracy Shean Jantzi ’90

Breakfast with Santa Chair

Morgan Gremillion Barkas ’09

Chris Broussard ’89

Katherine Ellard Dantin ’02

Allyson Jones Hingle ’92

Hunter Kinchen ’10

Gayden Jones Landry ’97

Katherine Bollinger Lejeune ’04

Chad Myers ’97

Tré Nelson ’14

Sean Owens ’02

Elizabeth Butts Singletary ’04

Gabe is studying neuroscience on the pre-medicine track. When not immersed in the health sciences, Gabe continues to pursue his passion for the arts by teaching dance workshops on multicultural trailblazers and exploratory choreography. Currently, he is working on a multi-club and multiuniversity MLK musical program celebrating the life and legacy of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The project is a collaboration with multiple performance groups on and off the Duke campus to design performative pieces that address the prompt, “How would you artistically respond to or represent the impact of MLK?”

Tiago Faleiros was recently awarded a scholarship and an honors distinction for superior academic achievement from the College of Business and Analytics at Southern Illinois

HOMECOMING

October 18, 2024

DUNHAM CUP

GOLF CLASSIC November 28, 2024

Caroline Bardwell ’20 won her individual event at the National Championships for the Intercollegiate Horse Showing Association in May. Caroline is LSU’s first National Champion in equestrian.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA December 14, 2024

ALUMNI CHRISTMAS PARTY December 20, 2024

University. Tiago continues to swim and was a medalist in the last two MidAmerican Conferences.

ALUMNI GIVING DAY April 12, 2025

ALUMNI WEEKEND April 24-26, 2025

KENDRA SCOTT GIVES BACK May 8, 2025

Gabe Bostick ’22 and Fine Arts Department Chair Lisa Hooks Murray

Harrison and Kelsey Day Bath ’18

aryTheriot

When Middle School Head Mary Theriot announced her decision to retire, we invited members of the Dunham community to share well wishes and memories. Below are excerpts from just of few of the many messages we received.

You have been such a wonderful blessing to the Dunham family. Educating by example and encouraging excellence, your contributions to the Dunham community will forever be felt by the love you have shown to each and every student, teacher, and family. —Gabriel Bostick ’22

I cannot thank you enough for your years of experience, dedication, service, and selfless giving to our school. Middle School is hard for kids, and you were the absolute best! You were fair and kind and just perfect for that role.

—Jacquie Barnes

Something that I will always value is our interview together. You were so welcoming and kind, and you loved the way that I spoke! This boosted my confidence coming to Dunham!

—Kaylee Idusuyi ’29

I always love how you say “hello” every time I see you. It always brings me so much joy. You are always so happy, loving, and patient. Even when it is gloomy outside, your greetings always make me smile.

—Mae Prather ’29

You have been such a joy to work with and to work for, and I have admired your steady leadership and support. You have led the Middle School with a servant’s heart, and it inspires all of us to serve our students in the same manner! Thank you for being such a wonderful principal (and teacher) and for showing us all what it looks like to “work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” —Danielle Nasers

Your heartfelt love and support for each family who has had the privilege of heeding your wise counsel will forever be remembered. —Leslie and Peter Bostick

Thank you for making me feel so welcome at Dunham when I first came in sixth grade. From the moment we had our interview in 2015, I knew Dunham was the school for me.

—Sanaa Stingley ’22

Baton Rouge Christian Education Foundation

dba The Dunham School

11111 Roy Emerson Drive

Baton Rouge, LA 70810

Important Back-to-School Dates

AUGUST 1: ECC First Day of School (two-year-old program)

AUGUST 7: New Student Orientation (grades 2-12 only)

AUGUST 8: First Day of School for grades 2-12

AUGUST 13: First Day of School for PreK3, PreK4, K, and 1st grade (half day); Upper School Back-to-School Night for Parents

AUGUST 14: First Full Day of School for PreK3, PreK4, K, and 1st grade

AUGUST 15: Middle School Back-to-School Night for Parents

AUGUST 16: ECC New Parent Coffee

AUGUST 20: Lower School Back-to-School Night for Parents (grades 2-12 only)