VI S IONS
THE MONTGOMERY ACADEMY
SUMMER 2011
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“I do.
With a planned giving strategy
tailored to your needs, you can put your assets to work for The Montgomery Academy, while you and the school share in the benefits. Let the Advancement Office help you and your financial advisors develop a gift plan that meets your financial and philanthropic goals.
”
Young Boozer
For more information on planned giving and gifts to the endowment, call Carolyn Bryan, Director of Advancement
parent of two MA graduates, former Board President and Alabama State Treasurer
carolyn_bryan@montgomeryacademy.org •
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334.273.7144
• m o n tg o m e ryac a d e m y. o rg
Visions
summer 2011
ALUMNI
14
ARTS
ACADEMICS
ATHLETICS
5
16 26
The Montgomery Academy Established 1959
Head of School Dave Farace dave_farace@montgomeryacademy.org
Associate Head of School Vivian Barfoot vivian_barfoot@montgomeryacademy.org
Director of Advancement Carolyn Peddy Bryan ‘75 carolyn_bryan@montgomeryacademy.org
Communications Coordinator Leigh Barganier leigh_barganier@montgomeryacademy.org
Annual Giving & Alumni Programs Coordinator Marie Harrington marie_harrington@montgomeryacademy.org
The Montgomery Academy 3240 Vaughn Road Montgomery, Al 36106-2725 (334) 272-8210 • Fac (334) 277-3240 www.montgomeryacademy.org The Montgomery Academy is a member of
Mission
The mission of The Montgomery Academy is the pursuit of excellence within the four major spheres of Academy life: academics, the arts, athletics and activities. Implicit in this is the existence of an environment in which students are simultaneously supported and challenged. The ultimate component of this mission is to assist students in becoming adults of strong moral character who contribute to society in both their professional and community lives.
National Association of Independent Schools The Montgomery Academy admits students of any race, religion, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school.
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REFLECTIONS FROM MY ROOKIE SEASON AS HEADMASTER
Charlie is a talented offensive/defensive lineman in football who will play for Furman University next year. Meredith is a dual threat on the basketball and volleyball courts and will play volleyball for Birmingham-Southern College next year. Soon after the banquet, I attended the beautiful Upper School Spring Choral Concert where I was surprised to see our two star athletes sing with grace and gusto. Shortly after the concert, I attended our spring musical comedy How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying where Charlie and Meredith delivered energetic and entertaining performances. At that point, I was no longer surprised, just very thankful for students like Charlie and Meredith who take advantage of MA’s boundless opportunities and have the freedom to flourish in multiple areas of school life.
I woke up at 4:30 a.m. the morning after commencement to travel back east to visit relatives. With my family asleep during the first several hours of our journey, I had time to reflect on my first year in Montgomery. In addition to an urgent need for caffeine, I felt a sense of gratitude for Montgomery Academy’s mission. I now have a first-hand understanding that the pursuit of excellence that has characterized the Academy since its founding extends to all aspects of school life. This commitment to excellence embodies a singular spirit on our two campuses where teachers and students alike strive to do their personal best. I believe the three stories below illustrate this unique MA spirit: 1. As I visited Lower School classrooms one morning this spring, First Grade Resource Teacher Becky Snellgrove asked if I would spend a few minutes with one of her students while he read a story to me. I agreed, found a comfortable spot for us on a couch, and quickly became engrossed in the story. As the student neared the end of the story, I sensed someone watching us and looked up to find Mrs. Snellgrove standing off to the side crying tears of joy. She later shared that the student had struggled mightily over the course of the year learning to read, but had recently turned the corner in his development. Mrs. Snellgrove was overwhelmed with joy at the sight of her student reading aloud to me; I was overwhelmed with gratitude for teachers like Mrs. Snellgrove who care so deeply for their students. 2. I attended the citywide Jimmy Hitchcock awards banquet this spring where four of our senior student-athletes were honored. Two of our honorees were Charlie Anderson and Meredith Lee.
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3. I’m proud that Montgomery Academy embraces the development of personal honor as a lifelong pursuit in the building of character. When a student has an ethical lapse, I always meet with the student and the student’s parents to discuss the situation and to share the consequences for a poor decision. After one such meeting, I received the following hand-written note from the parents:
Dear Dave: It may be unusual to get a “thank you note” following a disciplinary conference, but we do appreciate your handling of our son’s situation. Integrity is a value that we insist upon in raising and educating our kids. Thank you for your commitment and support of our values.
This type of parental support may be unusual at other schools, but not at MA. It is immensely gratifying to partner with parents in a school community that values honor above all. These three stories reflect what matters most in our school culture: teachers who fully invest in the lives of students; students who engage in campus life and are committed to living full and purposeful lives; and an authentic parentschool partnership focused on promoting high expectations of character and moral courage.
This year the MA on the Road crew traveled far and wide to visit terrific groups of Alumni! The crew consists of Marie Harrington, Alumni Programs Coordinator; Dave Farace, Head of School; Carolyn Bryan ’75, Director of Advancement and various representatives from faculty, administration, board and Alumni Council. In February, Carolyn Forey ’99 coordinated the MA on the Road event for Washington, DC alums at Old Ebbit Grill. Dave Farace, Cheryl McKiernan, Upper School Director and Rick McBride ’89, Alumni Council President enjoyed visiting with a fun group of alums who came out for the evening. The next stop on our travels was Birmingham at Do Di Yós in Homewood. This was the second year for a social in Birmingham and once again we had a great turnout. Ken Dyess, former faculty member; Lyl Parker, faculty member; and Jay Rye, College Advisor joined the crew along with Leigh Barganier, Communications Coordinator in visiting with the approximately 50 alumni. Not to be left out, the MA on the Road crew visited our college age alumni in Auburn and Tuscaloosa. In early April, Sommerville Hill ’89, Alumni Council member and Jay Rye join the others in visiting with 14 MA alums in Tuscaloosa. A few weeks later, faculty members Ana Baker and David Bethea enjoyed the evening with many MA alums in Auburn.
Montgomery
ON THE ROAD
Auburn
MA
Birmingham
NI M U L A
Stay tuned for more MA on the Road news- big plans are being made to travel to new and exciting locations. If you are interested in hosting an event in your home or assisting in coordinating an alumni event in your area, contact Marie Harrington at marie_harrington@montgomeryacademy.org or 334-273-7155.
Tuscaloosa
Concluding the year’s tour was the Montgomery Area Alumni social at the AlleyBAR. With more than 50 local alums in attendance, the MA on the Road crew felt like the evening was a big hit.
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
CLASS OF 2002
MARY MARGARET KEMP
It’s been a busy few months for Mary Margaret Kemp. In addition to teaching special needs children, she bought and moved into a new home and was nominated as one of five teachers across the country to be a part of the Regis and Kelly Show “Top Teacher in the Nation Award”. We wanted to find out what Mary Margaret has been doing since graduating from MA, so we asked her to answer a few questions. Tell us about your degree(s). Mary Margaret Kemp (MMK): I have my undergraduate bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education from the University of Alabama. I will be graduating with a master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in August 2011. I am considering an Educational Specialist Degree (EDS) in Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders that would begin spring 2012.
Why did you choose special education? Did you have someone specific that influenced this decision? MMK: Several factors influenced my career path to preschool special education. I have always loved working with children and
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taught Bible school for several years at First United Methodist Church for three year olds alongside my mother. My mother’s cousin has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and watching his struggles and accomplishments have always inspired me. Still, it was not until working at the Tuscaloosa RISE Center, an inclusive early intervention and preschool setting, that I realized what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. Watching the children with disabilities interact, grow, and learn alongside their typically developing peers is such a special experience. The typically developing children ask genuine, innocent questions and gain compassion and understanding while serving as classroom helpers and role models for communication, behavior, and overall development for their classmates with special needs.
Were there any teachers at MA that provide you with encouragement to follow your dreams? MMK: I had several teachers at MA that are very dear to my heart, taught me life lessons, and gave me tools to lead me towards my path as a teacher.
Tell us about your school, the William E. Burkett MultiHandicapped Center (the Burkett Center). MMK: Burkett Preschool is located on the campus of the Burkett Center, the Multi-Handicapped Center for Jefferson County School Systems. The Center serves children ranging anywhere from ages 5-21 years. There are four preschool classrooms- each with 14 children, a lead teacher and two teaching assistants. The
York was amazing, and a wonderful Mother’s Day gift for my Mom! The show flew us both to New York, paid for our hotel, a fancy dinner, and tickets to the Phantom of the Opera Broadway show. My mother and I had a Mother’s Day brunch in Central Park, toured the Met, visited Ground Zero, and took a Circle Line Tour around Manhattan. We had such a wonderful time and I can never thank Regis and Kelly, the producers, or my little boy’s mother enough for taking the time to nominate me!
How has this experience affected you?
federal government mandates that the preschool setting must be an inclusive setting with a 50:50 ratio, meaning that of the 14 children in each class seven have special needs and seven are typically developing peers. Last year I had a total of 21 children on my roll, seven typically developing peers and 14 children with special needs. The typical peers come five days a week and serve as classroom helpers and role models of communication, speech, behavior, and all other preschool skills. In preschool we teach from a general curriculum and modify lessons accordingly for each child with special needs. Therefore our typically developing peers are learning the preschool standards and the children with special needs are exposed to the general curriculum with needed supports and modifications. Our school has occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy that is offered in the classroom and in direct pullout therapy session according to the students’ needs. We have a very structured and busy schedule that starts at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m. The teachers at my school do all of the “specials” in the classroom and on the playground: music, art, gym, computer, etc. My students are always working on a wide range of skills from within the five developmental domains: Language and Literacy, Daily Living, Social/Emotional, Cognitive, and Motor Development. One child with special needs may be working on toilet training and eating with a spoon, while another is learning his alphabet. Most skills and goals are embedded within the daily routine, but many goals require one-on-one teaching opportunities scheduled throughout the day.
When did you first find out that you were nominated for the Regis and Kelly Show “Top Teacher in the Nation Award”? MMK: I first found out about my nomination the day it was announced live on the show that I was in the top 12. My director came into my classroom and explained what just happened. From that point on it was a whirlwind. My mother, colleagues, and friends got busy informing everyone they knew to start voting for the next three days to try and get me in the top five. The following Tuesday, I was in a meeting for a student of mine when I found out that I had been chosen as one of the top five. The producers from the show called and discussed that they would be sending a field producer and team to my school and that I would be traveling to New York in a little over a week to be on the show! My trip to New
MMK: It has touched my life in so many ways, and I truly know that I am on the right path in life. God gave me the gift of patience to work with children, and each of them are gifts in themselves. My job is so rewarding and gratifying, and when I wake up in the mornings I am truly excited to go to work. I miss them terribly over the summer, and I cry every year when graduation begins growing near. I can say though that while I am sad that my children must graduate and leave me when they turn five, I am so thankful to have had them in my life for a little while. As much as I teach them and get to watch them grow, each day they are teaching me as well.
In the nominating letter your student’s mother wrote, that The Burkett Center is a jewel in the middle of rubble and crime… and within the jewel is you! How did that make you feel? MMK: I was so honored! She is right though about the school being a jewel in the middle of rubble and crime. Our school is located in a terrible part of town, and the building leaves much to be desired. Many children’s parents have refused enrolling their children in our program due to the looks of the facility while many others report that they have heard that if they can just make it past the red door then they will fall in love with the staff inside. It’s not just me though....from our secretary to our teachers, testing staff, and therapists everyone is working together with one focus: the kids.
What are your plans for the future? MMK: My plans are to continue doing what I am doing. I could not be happier! I divided up the award money from Michaels Arts and Crafts to share with all of the teachers and therapists in my school. I felt that all the teachers deserved the reward and recognition, so I surprised each of my hard working colleagues with a letter and money from Michaels to spend as they need. I will finish my master’s degree in August, and I am contemplating an EDS in Autism. I love the preschool classroom, and even if I do continue my education, I know that I will always want to work in the classroom with children. I have also considered writing children’s books. I have sooooo many hilarious, sweet, and memorable experiences now to base a plot upon, so perhaps one day you will see my name on a bookshelf as well. I never thought that at 27 I would be on a national TV show, and there I was just a few weeks ago. I think I will continue to dream big for my students and for me from here on out!
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CLASS NOTES 1967
Inge Hill was named by Alabama Super Lawyers magazine as one of the top attorney’s in Alabama for 2011. Inge was recognized for his expertise in Real Estate. This prestigious honor is bestowed upon no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state.
1993
Emily Renfroe Little and her husband Charles proudly announce the birth of their son, Daniel Bryant on April 5, 2011. Daniel joins big sister Catherine who is eight years old. The family lives in Montgomery, where Emily is the principal at Dannelly Elementary School.
1969
1994
Ellen Brooks, Montgomery County’s first female district attorney, was named the 2010 Montgomery Advertiser Citizen of the Year. She joins a group of MA alums who have received this honor before her.
Ansley Tullos Gilpin and her husband Wes joyfully announce the birth of their daughter Anna Katherine on January 31, 2011. They are at home in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
1973
Florence Mangum Cauthen was selected as Circuit Clerk of the 15th Judicial Circuit of Alabama. Florence earned a law degree at the University of Alabama and a Masters of Law in Taxation, as well as an undergraduate degree in accounting at Southern Methodist University. She served eight years as a former U.S. Marshall for the Middle District of Alabama during the Clinton-Gore administration. She is the mother of MA alumni Belle Cauthen ‘02 and Preston Cauthen ’07.
1976
Wendy Brooks Crew, founding partner of Crew and Howell, was chosen for the Alabama Super Lawyers publication in the field of domestic relations and family law. She is a fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Layers and is on the board of managers of the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
1979
Joy Cooper Heaton received her doctorate from Columbia Theological Seminary on May 14, 2011. She is in her second year of remission from stage 4 blood cancer and is running in a half marathon for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society this summer.
1981
Samford University Brock School of Business professor Dr. Steven T. Jones received the George Macon Memorial Award for his outstanding performance as a teacher, counselor, friend to students, and one who inspires students to greatness. Jones, who holds a Ph.D. in finance from the University of Cincinnati, joined the Samford faculty in 2001. Active in university and professional communities, he advises student groups and mentors new faculty members. He is presidentelect of the International Academy of Economics and Finance.
1995
Cameron Martin and Allen Farr were joined in holy matrimony April 10, 2010 at Grace Episcopal Church in Mount Meigs, Alabama.
1996
Alison Keene Barnes was named to the Dean’s List for the 2010 fall semester at Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law. Mary Halsey Maddox De Idiaquez and her husband Diego are pleased to announce the birth of their daughter Laura Virginia on April 15, 2011. Virginia joins big brother Alonso.
1997
Smith Watson Beevers and her husband Jonathan are thrilled announce the birth of their son Weston on January 5, 2011. They are currently living in New Orleans, Louisiana. Margaret Seale Callahan and her husband Tim joyfully announce the birth of their twins, Edwin James “Winn” and Nancy “Larkin” on December 28, 2010. Winn and Larkin join big sister Elle. Anne Rennekamp Clement and her husband Wesley are excited to announce the birth of their son Eric Thomas on May 31, 2010. They currently live in Shoreline, Washington.
1998
Leslyn Cooper and Benjamin Parks were married on May 29, 2011. They currently live in Nashville, Tennessee. Rush Elliott and his wife Candice are delighted announce the birth of their son “Liam” Rush on May 13, 2011.
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CLASS NOTES 1999
Tiffany Lee Cofer and her husband Adam joyfully announce the birth of their son Andrew “Ford” Cofer on August 28, 2010. Patricia Gregory and Shaler Vincent Alias were married on May 21, 2011 in Highlands, North Carolina. Patricia graduated from the University of Georgia in 2004 with a Bachelor of Business Administration with majors in Marketing and Economics. She is currently in the marketing department with the architectural firm of Perkins and Will in Atlanta, Georgia.
2000
Robin Franco and Clay Bromberg were married on May 28, 2011 in Ponte Vedre, Florida. They currently live in Birmingham. Richard Vann was named to the Dean’s List for the 2010 fall semester at Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law.
2001
Megan German and Joel Hughes were joined in holy matrimony on May 14, 2011 at Frazer United Methodist Church in Montgomery. Megan received her Masters in Public Relations from the University of Southern Mississippi in April 2011. She is employed by Auburn Montgomery as a Divisional Coordinator of Events & Promotions for University Outreach. Hal Mooty and Katie Granlund were married on March 5, 2011 at Latham United Methodist Church in Huntsville, Alabama. Aimee Bryan Northrup and her husband Wyatt are happy to announce the birth of their son, John Embry on February 20, 2011. They currently live in Auburn.
2002
Bradford Liles married Katelyn Braswell on May 28, 2011 at Willow Point Golf and Country Club on Lake Martin.
Sally Elizabeth Vann and Riley Livingston Wiggins were married on March 19, 2010 at First United Methodist Church in Montgomery.
2003
Weldon Doe married Becca Lowther of Jackson, Mississippi, on June 18, 2011 at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson. Weldon is employed as a CPA with Sellers, Richardson, Hollman and West in Birmingham. Alexandra Broder and Brian Cone ’00 were married on May 14, 2011 at the Chapel Hill Meeting House at The Waters. Alex and Brian are currently living in Atlanta, Georgia. Brian works in catastrophe insurance, and Alex is pursuing a master’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics. Alex is expected to graduate in 2013, after which she plans to join the efforts to fight childhood obesity. Daniel Hackett has started his residency at the Medical College of Georgia for Orthopedics.
2004
Elizabeth McDonald was awarded a Master of Science in Medical Illustration by The Medical College of Georgia in May, 2010. She is a medical illustrator/animator with Blausen Medical Communications in Houston, Texas. Steve Reneau and Olivia Poole were married on May 21, 2011 at First United Methodist Church in Montgomery. Steve received his Masters of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University in May.
2005
Laura Morello married Bradley Harris on April 30, 2011. They currently live in Birmingham. Katie Sasser was named to the Dean’s List for the 2010 fall semester at Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law.
2006
For the past four and a half years Joe Palmer worked as a health care policy consultant to the pharmaceutical and medical device industry on issues ranging from Medicare reimbursement policy to health care reform implementation/readiness. Now, she is starting at the George Washington University’s School of Public Health & Health Services in the Department of Health Policy as a health policy analyst while pursuing a Master of Public Health degree.
John Shashy was named to the Dean’s List for the 2010 fall semester at Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law.
Patrick Tinney became a commissioned officer in the United States Air National Guard on March 3, 2011 at Maxwell Air Force Base. He spent over six weeks competing with many others to become a leader of this nation’s militia and is part of the Tennessee Air National Guard in Knoxville. Patrick is currently a flight instructor at Candler Field in Williams, Georgia.
Katherine Bryan graduated summa cum laude from Mississippi State University with a degree in biomedical engineering in April 2011.
2007
David Barrington graduated from Furman University, where he played football all four years and is now attending medical school at the University of Alabama Birmingham.
2008
Katie Bell was selected as the Auburn University College of Sciences and Mathematics Outstanding Junior in Biomedical Sciences for the
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CLASS NOTES 2010-2011 academic year. She was also selected as one of sixteen students to represent the college as a COSAM Leader. This past spring, she was inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society. George Mardre has been accepted to Officer’s Candidate School for the Marines. He will be going to Quantico, Virginia this summer for a 12 week basic training.
2010
Jeffery Ashurst was named to the Dean’s List for the 2010 fall semester at Samford University. Jeffery is majoring in Exercise Science. Michael Josey was accepted to Pharmacy School at Samford University. Will Davis, a freshman at Princeton, is playing baseball as the first baseman. Princeton (23-22) won the Ivy League championship and went to the NCAA Regionals in Austin, Texas. He plans to major in Biology, pursuing the Pre-Med requirements.
2009
William McLain is currently attending Auburn University where he is in the Honors College majoring in Broadcast Journalism and a member of the Auburn University Singers.
Gustavus Orum Hamner
(1927-2011)
Mr. Gustavus “Gus” Orum Hamner, the first Headmaster at the Academy passed away in March 2011 at the age of 84. Mr. Hamner was born in Seale, Alabama, and was preceded in death by his mother, Almyra Orum Hamner, and his father, Herman Blue Hamner. He is survived by two brothers, H. Nicholas Hamner and George Feagin (Ann Graves) Hamner; two children, daughter, Gaussen Hamner, and son, Nicholas Feagin Hamner; grandson, Carson Lambert Hamner; niece, Nancy Hamner (Bill) Gordon; and nephew, George Feagin (Antoinette) Hamner, Jr. Gus attended schools in Phenix City, Alabama, graduating from Central High School. He received a B.A. from Emory University and an M.A. from the University of Alabama. After serving in the U. S. Air Force, achieving the rank of Captain, he did further graduate studies at the University of Texas in Austin. He served as a history instructor and college counselor at the Darlington School in Rome, Georgia, before being named first Headmaster of The Montgomery Academy, serving from June 1959 until May 1967. Under Mr. Hamner’s leadership and before its first class graduated in 1966, the school was granted a chapter of the Cum Laude Society. In 1967, Gus became headmaster of the Julius T. Wright School for Girls in Mobile, where he became a legend in his own time.
Allison Bronner Class of 2004
Allison Bonner passed away suddenly on March 3, 2011. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Alabama; received a Master of Science in Marketing from the University of Alabama; and was a third year student in the University of Alabama School of Law.
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She served her community by volunteering for many organizations including the Humane Society, Special Olympics, R.I.S.E. program for young children, and the Natural Museum of History. She is survived by her parents, Dr. and Mrs. David Bronner, and her brothers George ’96 and Courtney ‘97.
Career Connections Beginning this past spring a program utilizing MA alumni as guest speakers was launched. Career Connections was designed to give Academy sophomores a taste of various career options as well as connecting them to MA alumni. The alumni spoke not only about their current career, but also about the experiences at MA that influenced their choice of career and the path it entailed.
The following alumni participated in this new program: Tyler Caldwell ‘99 – City Planner in the Development Department of the City of Montgomery R.B. Walker ‘04 – Government Affairs Analyst at Alabama Power Company Joe Hubbard ’99 – Attorney and Alabama House of Representative for District 73 Mary Beth Walls ’02 – Director of Marketing for Alabama Interactive Alice Novak ’92 – Assistant Curator of Education, Adult Programs at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts John McWilliams ’96 - former Performing Arts Chair and Upper School History Teacher and current Middle School Director at The Montgomery Academy If you are interested in being a part of Career Connection 2011-2012, please contact Marie Harrington at 334-273-7155 or marie_harrington@montgomeryacademy.org
Alumni Council Members Rick McBride 1989 - President Sommerville Hill Mahaley McInnes John McWilliams Leigha Cauthen Joe Hubbard Kristin Bentley Allen Sheehan Evans Bailey Mary Beth Walls Clay Mcinnis
1989 1992 1996 1999 1999 2000 2000 2001 2002 2005
Hart Johnson Jeanie Parnell Gray Borden Gary Tsai Tyler Caldwell John Ashworth Georgia S. Holmes Mallory Watson Searcy
1997 1995 1997 2001 1999 1992 2001 2002
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GRANDPARENTS & SPECIAL FRIENDS DAY
The Montgomery Academy loves Grandparents and Special Friends! Grandparents and Special Friends came from across town, across the state, and across the country to share this exciting day with Lower School students. The students performed a special choral program for their guests and then introduced them to their teachers and classmates, took them on a campus tour and posed for keepsake photos. Thank you to all the grandparents and special friends that came to make this day EXTRA special!
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SAYING GOOD BYE TO FRIENDS The Montgomery Academy celebrated the teaching careers of five treasured faculty members this spring at a retirement reception in Hill Hall. Many friends and family gathered to share appreciation for the faithful service and to offer warm wishes for the retirement of these outstanding faculty members. JoAnne Barnes has taught at the Academy for thirty-six years. She ended her tenure in second grade, although she earlier taught third graders and initially started teaching Kindergarten students back when the Kindergarten was housed in the little houses near the playground on the Vaughn Road Campus. MaryAnn Beggs has taught at MA for thirty-five years, spending many years in second grade before moving to third grade. JoAnne and MaryAnn, both of whom have served as Lower School Grade Chairs, have touched the lives of many children who have attended our Lower School in the last three and half decades, and they leave a great legacy of deeply caring for their students and creating a wonderful learning environment. After twenty-seven years Jerry Brewer Pickett, former English teacher, completed her Academy career as Middle School Director. By leading many eighth graders through learning to write a term paper, she helped students develop writing skills they carried forward to college and beyond. Benedicte Retrou-Brown joins the others in retirement after twenty-six years of service to The Montgomery Academy teaching French to Middle and Upper School students. For a number of years she served as Foreign Language Department Chair, and has sponsored the Amnesty International Club. Also, Lyl Parker is retiring after teaching eighteen years at the Academy. Lyl brought science alive to Upper School students through her classes in Biology, Advanced Placement (AP) Biology, and Anatomy & Physiology. The Academy greatly appreciates the impressive contributions of these fine educators, and we wish them well in their retirement. Our school is blessed by the gifts of these outstanding individuals.
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By Scott Bowman, Upper School Drama
ARTS
This May, 26 students—including ten seniors—performed in the Upper School’s spring production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. This 1961 musical adaptation of Shepherd Mead’s satiric “self-help” manual won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It has enjoyed two major revivals on Broadway including a current production with Daniel Radcliffe of Harry Potter fame. This show’s popularity over the past 50 years can be traced to its witty lyrics, its memorable melodies, and its humorous commentary on American corporate life. The show tells the story of the rags-to-riches rise of J. Pierrepont Finch (Taylor Turner, Class of 2011) from window washer to executive in the mythical Worldwide Wicket Corporation. Outsmarting his boss (Clayton Williams, Class of 2011) and dodging the advances of the boss’s girlfriend (Tade Anzalone, Class of 2011), Finch finds romance in the arms of his loyal secretary Rosemary (Grace Haynes, Class of 2011). The production all took place on a stunning set inspired by modern art that was designed and created by Upper School Art teacher Connie Deal.
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By Scott Bowman, Upper School Drama
This winter, the Academy was pleased to present a new play that celebrates the world of the theater. Charles Morey’s Laughing Stock leads audiences through a full season experience at “The Playhouse,” a fictional summer stock theater in northern New England. The cast included seniors Tade Anzalone, A.C. DeMoss, Grace Haynes, Sarah Harmon Hood, Will Massey, James Trevor, Taylor Turner, and Clayton Williams, with underclassmen Rosalind O’Connor, Sophie Odom, George Sellers, Henry Toohey, and Hannah Trachy.
Taking place on a set featuring a stage-within-a-stage, the play followed the characters’ long journey from auditions and company meetings, through rehearsals, to performances seen from both the onstage and backstage perspectives, and culminating in the bittersweet goodbyes of a closing night. Through the hilarious trials and tribulations of this theater company, we ultimately gain an appreciation of how the theater can shape the lives of actors, directors, artists, and audiences.
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Lower School Culture Study
The Lower School culture study began as a dream of BeeLee Tullos 17 years ago and has continued to be guided by her creativity and vision. The work of the entire Lower School faculty and staff has enabled children to study seven different cultures during this period: Africa, Australia, Japan, Germany, and Mexico, and just recently, India and South Korea. Offered as a month-long study during midJanuary and early February, the annual study gives students the opportunity to focus intently on a specific area of the world in an exciting 16 Visions - Summer 2011
MICS E D A AC
cross-curricular adventure in order to learn about the land, the people, the culture, and the history. By studying folk tales, “virtual trips� through websites and lots of hands-on activities, students are exposed to all aspects of the different cultures. Each year the Lower School Commons is turned into a museum area with art objects, souvenirs, and artifacts shared by people who have either lived in or visited the area. In addition, The Jean K. Weil Library has large murals created by parent volunteers that turn the library into a scene from the country. Students, parents and friends from our Academy community as well as outside performers and presenters visit the students to help them experience the true life of the country. Over the years Indian dancers and drummers, African storytellers, Australian musicians, and Japanese dressmakers have shared their talents. Specialists
from the Montgomery Zoo also bring animals that are specific to the country which allows the students an up-close look at the many exotic animals that cover the globe. The culminating activity of the Culture Study is a three-day festival where the students create items and learn dances that are related to important themes studied during the month. For this year’s study of Africa, students made Mancala games, rainsticks and tie-dyed t-shirts and learned dances to traditional music from instructor Tonya Speed. The Lower School culture study series, made possible each year through Annual Giving, is on a rotation that enables students who enter kindergarten to experience five distinct cultures. For 2012, the students will experience Australia.
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CLASS OF 2011 QUOTES MA has taught me how to find a balance between academic, extracurricular, and social aspects of high school. I learned how to designate proper time and attention to each in order to create a memorable experience. Grace Haynes, Washington & Lee University
During my time at MA, I’ve learned more than I ever could have imagined. Although, one thing that will always stay with me is is the sense of community the school provides and the relationships I have developed that I will carry with me to college and beyond Michael Bemis, College of Charleston
MA has taught me how to analyze and think critically, two skills that I think are growing increasingly important in today’s world. I don’t think any of us could have asked for a better community than the one the Academy offers. Will Massey, Vanderbilt University
Montgomery Academy has taught me the importance of building strong relationships. The ability to rely on others is invaluable when pursing excellence. William Hughes, Southern Methodist University
MA helped me become a well-rounded individual by showing me how to balance difficult course loads, sports, and social activities. Laura Kent Garrett, University of Alabama I’ve grown to recognize the importance of having a good support system, and to ask those people for help when one is struggling. I’ve also learned to have an open mind in the classroom and socially, and to build new relationships as a result. Madeline Hutto, St. Olaf College
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MA has taught me so much from time management to how to prepare for a test. Beyond academic responsibilities, MA has prepared me for what lies ahead of me and has guided me in the right directions. Walden Walker, Appalachain State University
The Montgomery Academy has taught me how to be my best in everything that I do. After 13 years at this school I have truly learned the meaning of The Montgomery Academy’s motto, “The Pursuit of Excellence.” Troy Marable Auburn University
The Class of 2011 of The Montgomery Academy claims numerous accomplishments in the classroom, in the arts, in the sports arena, and in the community. Comprised of 49 students, this Senior Class celebrates the recognition of 20 students in the National Merit Scholarship Program and the Advanced Placement Scholars Program. Since joining the Upper School in the Fall of 2007, members of this class have played key roles in interscholastic athletics, capturing 12 State Championships, while at the same time contributing to the Speech and Debate program’s recognition by the National Forensic League as being in the top 1% in the nation. With acceptances to 60 different institutions of higher learning, 39 students in the Senior Class have been offered $4,104,636 in merit-based scholarship money, an amount which does not include financial aid or need-based scholarships.
CLASS OF 2011 College Acceptances American University Appalachian State University Auburn University Birmingham-Southern College Chapman University College of Charleston College of the Holy Cross Columbia College Denison University Depauw University Duke University Elon University Florida State University Furman University Georgetown College Georgetown University Georgia Institute of Technology Gettysburg College Hampden-Sydney College Huntingdon College Kenyon College
Lehigh College Lewis & Clark College Louisiana State University Macalester College Maryland Institute College of Art Mississippi State University New York University Otterbein University Penn State University Rhodes College Samford University Santa Clara University Southern Methodist University St. Mary’s College of Maryland St. Olaf College Texas Christian University Troy University Tulane University University of Alabama University of Alabama at Birmingham
University of California Berkeley University of California San Diego University of Chicago University of Colorado University of Georgia University of Iowa University of Mary Washington University of Maryland University of Mississippi University of Montevallo University of Nevada-Las Vegas University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of Rochester University of South Carolina University of the South: Sewanee University of Virginia Vanderbilt University Washington & Lee University Wofford College
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2011 COMMENCEMENT
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Commencement Address John A. Thompson, M.D. Class of 1965 May 29, 2011 Thank you, Mr. Farace, for that kind introduction. I was surprised but also pleased when Vivian Barfoot asked if I would give the commencement address. I am doubly pleased because my nephew James Trevor is among our outstanding graduates. I join Beth and John Trevor, Mimi, Helen, and Donald Thompson, and all the parents, grandparents, families and friends here in congratulating our graduating seniors. This is my chance to tell you graduates how much The Montgomery Academy has meant to me since I graduated in 1969. Beginning in the lower school and building over my MA career, the school motto “the pursuit of excellence” was imprinted in my thinking. The meaning of the word excellence may seem obvious, but apparently many are baffled by this concept. For example, if you examine the world around us, I submit that Jackson Hole, Wyoming with the Teton mountain range is the paragon of excellence in natural beauty. Yet, when rangers at the Bridger National Wilderness area, adjacent to the Tetons, picked their favorite comment cards from visitors, here were some examples: • Trails need to be reconstructed – avoid trails going uphill • There are too many bugs and spiders – please spray the area to get rid of these pests • Chairlifts need to be installed so we can get to the beautiful views without working
John A. Thompson Biography John A. Thompson, MD, is Professor of Medicine in the Division of Medical Oncology at the University of Washington in Seattle. In addition, he is Director of the Phase I Clinical Trials program at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and a member of the Division of Clinical Research of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, both located in Seattle. After he had earned a medical degree from The University of Alabama in Birmingham, Dr. Thompson completed an internship and residency in internal medicine at UW, where he served as chief medical resident. He subsequently also completed a fellowship in oncology at UW. Dr. Thompson teaches internal medicine residents and medical oncology fellows, and maintains a busy medical practice in which he sees patients at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Dr. Thompson’s research interests include new drug development with particular emphasis on cancer immunotherapy. He is the author of articles published in such refereed journals as the Journal of Clinical Oncology, Blood, and Clinical Cancer Research, as well as the author of abstracts, book chapters, and other publications. Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, with a subspecialty in medical oncology, Dr. Thompson is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Association for Cancer Research, the American Society of Gene Therapy, and other professional medical organizations in the United States and abroad. He is a past president of the Washington State Medical Oncology Society. In addition, he is a member of the medical advisory board of the Kidney Cancer Association, and co-chair of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network’s Clinical Practice Guidelines committee for melanoma.
• Coyotes kept me up last night, please eradicate them • Reflectors should be placed on trees so we can hike at night • Places where trails don’t exist are not well marked So, apparently, excellence is not self-evident! But I trust that the MA grads here will know excellence when they see it. The founders of the Academy had foresight in selecting the school’s motto. If you diagram the phrase, the subject is “pursuit” – meaning to chase, to strive, to follow with zeal. It implies an elusive quarry. On any given day, you may not achieve excellence, but it is the pursuit that is key. By adopting this motto, Academy graduates have an internal compass that serves them well in their adult life. My Academy compass stayed with me when I graduated from medical school and moved to Seattle for residency training. I’ll tell you a story about a man I met in Seattle, who, though not an Academy graduate, exemplifies the pursuit of excellence. Seattle is a great place to live – it is home to Boeing, Starbucks, Microsoft, Amazon – all nestled under snow-capped Mt Rainier on the
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horizon. A less advertised factoid is that Seattle is also the best place to suffer an out of hospital cardiac arrest! Medic ONE, the emergency response program, began in Seattle. It’s a network of ambulances and medics linked to 911. A person who collapses on the sidewalks of Seattle has a better chance of survival than in any other city in the US, largely because of Medic ONE. During my medical training, I had the opportunity to work with Dr. Michael Copass, director of Medic ONE. Every morning, Dr. Copass gathered his team in the emergency room at Harborview (the Seattle trauma center) to review all the ER admissions from the night before. He was stocky, wore his sleeves rolled up, and usually clipped about six beepers and radios on his belt, three on each side. You know the handsome Dr. McDreamy from Grey’s Anatomy? – not this guy. I immediately sensed Dr. Copass’ energy and somewhat intimidating intensity, but also his charisma. I could tell he was on my side if I gave him my best. Dr. Copass riveted the attention of each new resident and made it clear that it was our mission to give the best possible care to each patient who walked or rolled in – in other words, to pursue excellence. Late one night, around midnight, I was the Medic ONE doctor. That means that I was on call in the ER for the medics in the field and supervised their activities, via radio communication. I wore a
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special beeper that went off. I ran to the Medic ONE room situated in the center of the ER, surrounded by radio equipment and a red phone. I listened on the radio as Medics in a local neighborhood were assessing a two year old child in respiratory distress. They requested urgent medication orders. Frantically, I looked at the tattered and worn papers pinned to the wall, listing drugs, doses, and treatment protocols. Suddenly, the red phone rang. I picked up and Dr. Copass’ voice said “John, what’s wrong?” I told him I was searching for the correct dose of epinephrine for a small child. He calmly said “0.15 mg Subcu stat!” and hung up. I had heard rumors that Dr. Copass slept with the Medic ONE radio at his side, but I viewed those stories as far-fetched. Who would take their career, their investment in their life’s work to such lengths? That night was proof that the rumors were true. Dr. Copass worked long days, and as you have just heard, well into the night. He poured his life into an idea – an idea that is now saving lives and is an international model for emergency medical care. Dr. Copass represents one individual’s personification of the pursuit of excellence. He was intense – yes, driven- yes. He was uncharitable if he thought someone was coasting or not engaged. Skeptics may say that an inflexible pursuit of any goal, even
excellence, leads to intolerance. The pursuit of excellence may also seem too daunting a task. Voltaire said “Le mieux est l’ennemi du bien” – the best is the enemy of the good - that is, if you accept only excellence, you may become afraid of failure and never try anything ambitious. These are both valid concerns. In the end however, my advice to the Academy graduates today is to pursue your goal with vigor and zeal, and to set your sights high. Why do I recommend this? Because, contrary to Voltaire’s aphorism, such an approach will give you confidence. You are about to enter college and soon thereafter your independent adult lives. Your competition henceforth will not be St James or Mountain Brook – your future competitors are already hard at work in Nanjing, Tokyo, Johannesburg… But you have a secret weapon. If you couple the knowledge and skills you have acquired at the Academy with a deep respect for your school’s motto, this will provide a framework for your perception of the world around you. You will be more likely to seek out people who are vigorously pursuing their vision of excellence. You give yourself the best chance, perhaps to achieve excellence, but to achieve your potential, as described so eloquently by Rabbi Stevens this morning.
In my profession of medical research, I have doubted my chances of success several times – wondering, for instance, if I had the knowledge and tenacity required to get an NIH grant, when the funding rate was only 14%; or, wondering if I would be able to attract bright trainees to my research program? In those situations, one prays for guidance and support, and one reaches inside to tap into personal sources of strength. It may sound strange to the young graduates here, but more than once, I have said to myself “I am an Academy graduate – I can do this!” Forty-two years ago, we did not have cell phones, computers were not personal, and genetic engineering was still a dream. However, The Montgomery Academy teachers created an environment where learning was cherished, and the dedicated Academy teachers today are continuing and enhancing that tradition. What I learned at the Academy – the respect for learning, and the honor code, are still the foundation of my intellectual life. I carry the Academy in my heart, and I hope that you graduates will keep the pursuit of excellence as your compass as you rise up to pursue your dreams.
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The Montgomery Academy
Class of 2011
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Dorothy Alice Mariah Adams Charles Lester Anderson Jr. Haley Wynn Andreades Tade Sims Via Anzalone Michael Donald Bemis Thomas Brandt Bishop Hamilton Roswald Bloom Meghan Grace Brantley Thomas Garrett Brewbaker Aylmarie Joy Broadfoot Margaret Bailey McDonough Brown Beverly Margaret Brown Elizabeth Ann Brown Randal Wood Brown Jr. Gina Patricia Budny Jonathan Morris Capouya Daeil Chung Andrew Hughes Crum Andrew Christopher DeMoss Sarah Katherine Fitzpatrick Alexandria Nicole Garcia Laura Kent Garrett Allison Hughes Gilpin Christoph Hautkappe Grace Gunter Haynes
University of Alabama Furman University Vanderbilt University Georgetown University College of Charleston Auburn University University of Alabama University of Alabama Otterbein University Auburn University Auburn University Tulane University Auburn University Georgia Institute of Technology Auburn University University of Alabama University of California San Diego Washington & Lee University University of Alabama University of Alabama Washington & Lee University University of Alabama Auburn University Max-Planck-Gymnasium Washington & Lee University
Class of 2011 Auburn University Auburn University University of Alabama Southern Methodist University St. Olaf College University of Alabama University of Alabama Birmingham-Southern College Auburn University Vanderbilt University Auburn University University of Alabama at Birmingham University of Mary Washington University of Mississippi University of Alabama University of Montevallo Maryland Institute College of Art New York University University of Alabama Appalachian State University Auburn University Auburn University University of Alabama University of Alabama
The Montgomery Academy
Tucker Jackson Helms Sarah Harmon Hood Richard Davis Hudson William Daniel Hughes III Madeline Leigh Hutto Thomas Cowin Knowles Jr. Austin Major Lee Meredith Catherine Lee Troy Oliver Marable William Mills Massey William Gilliard McKenzie II Arun Nakhasi Callie Lynn Price Ann Lauren Kageler Russell Frank Johnston Stakely Jr. Kati Diane Trautzsch James Richard Trevor Taylor Lott Turner Kaitlyn Leigh Viola Walden Clark Walker Winston Kennedy Waters Clayton David Williams John Alden Williams William Chancellor Young
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ATHLETICS
A NOTE FROM OUR ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
The Montgomery Advertiser recently reported some astounding news regarding our Athletic Department’s success in the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA). The Advertiser’s article listed the most state championships won by schools in Class 1A-6A during the history of the AHSAA. As of the end of the 2010-2011 school year, The Montgomery Academy has the most state championships of any school in the River Region and is ranked 11th among all schools in the state (Class 1A-6A) with 42 state championships (22 girls and 20 boys). Over the years, every Montgomery Academy team has won at least one state championship with the exception of boys basketball, boys soccer, and boys track and field. But worthy of note is the fact that the three aforementioned teams have finished as state runner-up. The number of championships across the board demonstrates the fact that our Athletic Department is not defined by the success of one team or sport, but by the excellence exemplified by each team and sport represented at MA. This remarkable accomplishment clearly demonstrates how the “Pursuit of Excellence” truly permeates every aspect of our school community. In addition, it points to the resolve, persistence and tenacity of our student-athletes as they continually perform at a high level in the classroom and in the playing arena.
Go Eagles!!!
Anthony McCall Athletic Director
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GOLF
State Champions • Coach: Chris Cournoyer The MA varsity golf team won the Class 3A Alabama High School State Championship for the second year in a row and eight out of the last nine years. William Sellers captured the title of co-medalist at state. The 2011 golf team consisted of Major Lee, Chance Young, William Sellers, Garrett Laurie, Brock Trulove, and Wells Hooper. The team also finished second this year at the Hardaway Invitational in Columbus, Georgia and second at the Blue Gray Tournament held at Wynlakes Country Club.
VARSITY BASEBALL
Record: 10-17 • Coach: Casey Smith The Varsity baseball team finished the 2011 season with a record of 10-17. The team improved over the course of the season winning five of their last eight games. The ten wins included exciting games against Elmore County, Marbury, Catholic and LAMP. The team finished with a solid area record of 3-3 putting them in a second place tie with LAMP. LAMP won the tiebreaker and went on the state semi-finals.
VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL
Record: 7-16 • Coaches: Anthony McCall, Mark Eubanks, Robb McGaughey The 2010-11 version of the Eagles varsity boys basketball team lacked the experience and offensive prowess of previous teams, but was just as competitive and fun to watch. They played a tough schedule, which included two Class 6A opponents and one of the state’s top rated Class 4A teams. MA will have its top three scorers, rebounders and assists leader returning along with several young players, which should prepare the team for a more productive 2011-12 season. Although the team only managed seven victories it amassed a number of memorable moments while playing in several close games.
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VARSITY GIRLS SOCCER
Class 1A-4A State Champions • Record: 22-0-1 Coaches: Glenn Sylvest, Emily Barber and Eli McCrory The Girls Varsity Soccer team completed the 2011 season with a 22-0-1 record winning the State Championship for the second time in school history. The first State Championship in Girls Varsity Soccer was won in 2001. The Eagles scored 122 goals in 23 matches with their tie coming in a 0-0 game against Oak Mountain High School (6A). The 20 players on this team came to practice each day with one goal in mind: to win a state championship. Their team slogan for the season was “In it to win it” and their willingness to work hard allowed them to achieve just that. They had great chemistry on and off the playing field, which helped them trust each other throughout the season. In the game that decided the state championship, the Eagles found themselves down to a scrappy Guntersville team 1 to 0. However, due to the leadership of experienced captains Haley Andreades, Callie Price and Gina Budny, the team didn’t quit and came back to win the game 2 to 1. The words “unselfish, talented, and dominating” would best describe this team. The future looks bright for the Girls Varsity Soccer team as the Eagles have 16 returning players and some promising newcomers.
We are proud of our Middle School and JV Teams on their successful seasons. To read about their accomplishments during the 2010-2011 year, please visit our website at www. montgomeryacademy.org/athletics 28 Visions - Summer 2011
VARSITY BOYS TENNIS
3A State Champions • Record: 27-1 • Coach: David Bethea The Varsity Boys Tennis team won the 2011 Class 3A State Championship and in doing so won their 10th state title in the last 15 years. Led by seniors Andrew Crum and Jonathan Capouya, the Eagles had a tremendous regular season. The Eagles defeated several traditional tennis powers during the year including Saint Paul’s, McGill-Toolen, Muscle Shoals, Auburn, and Hoover. In the state tournament, the Eagles dominated the other teams. Other team members Bonner McLemore, Guy Hood, Hunter Carroll, Will Spain, Bo Torbert, Allen Millsap, and Clayton Muller also had excellent seasons. The best characteristic of this year’s team was each player putting their team first and the positive work ethic and extra work each player put forth in order to achieve their pre-season goal to win the state championship. Bo Torbert, Bonner McLemore, and Guy Hood won individual singles titles, while Bo Torbert and Guy Hood and Jonathan Capouya and Will Spain won State doubles titles. The team will miss Player of the Year Andrew Crum and fellow senior Jonathan Capouya, but with the remainder of the team being very young, the future looks bright for MA Tennis.
VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL
Class 3A Area 4 Champions and South Regional Champions • Record: 29-2 Coaches: Glenn Sylvest and Barry Fencher The Girls Varsity Basketball team completed the 2010-2011 season with a record of 29-2. They won the Scholars Four Tournament, the Capital City Conference Tournament, the Class 3A Area 4 Tournament and the South Regional. Senior captains Haley Andreades and Meredith Lee exhibited strong leadership throughout the season as evident by the way the entire team played together as one unit on the court. The team only lost two games all season: one to Brewbaker Tech, the eventual Class 4A State Champion and one to Madison Academy, the eventual Class 3A State Champion. For the past three seasons, the Eagles have taken a step closer each year to winning a state championship. The season ended in Birmingham at the Final Four where the Eagles fought hard, but fell short in the semi-final game to a more experienced Madison Academy team. The future looks bright for the Girls Varsity Basketball team as the Eagles return five players who will be seniors: Nini Rabsatt-Smith, Nichole Green, Miah Brooks, Layne Doctson and Dana Smith. The team is also excited about the incoming players that have the ability to make an immediate impact.
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VARSITY GIRLS TENNIS
3A State Champions • Coaches: Denise Tinney and Fairlie Herron During the spring of 2011, The Montgomery Academy girls varsity tennis team enjoyed another successful season, winning 12 of 14 matches and repeating to win another State Championship! This accomplishment makes four state titles in a row for a team that has not changed its line up in four years. The top six players were Hollan Smith, Mary Elizabeth Massey, Gretchen Lee, Lee Ellen Bryan, Ann Kathryn Parrish and Brittany Briddell along with alternates Hannah Snider, Abi Capouya and Allison Gilpin. The captains for the 2011 team selected by the players were Hollan Smith and Mary Elizabeth Massey. During the season, both girls set a high standard for competitiveness on the court while displaying excellent sportsmanship and leading the team by example. The girls tennis team traveled often to find excellent opponents and competition. Their only losses were to Mountain Brook, the Class 6A State Champion and to Brookstone School in Columbus, Georgia a State Semifinalist. The team also played in the Buckhead Rotary Tournament in Atlanta and in the Chattanooga Rotary Invitational Tournament in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The future is bright for next year as the team returns its strong lineup with younger talent coming in!
VARSITY BOYS SOCCER
Record: 8-11-2 • Conference Record: 5-7 Coach: Wilfredo Navidad The 2011 Varsity Boys Soccer team was lead by tri-captains and All Metro Team selections Michael Bemis, Tucker Helms and Johnston Stakely. This season saw the team playing through numerous injuries, but all the while showing character and determination in every game. Forwards Michael Bemis and Stephen Scott provided the scoring while Johnston Stakely, A. C. DeMoss, Grayson Anzalone and Will McKenzie supported their plays. The defense was anchored by Tucker Helms, Davis Hudson, Carter Goodwyn and Forrest Hook with goalies, Jason Thompson and Sterling Anderson, giving good support as the season progressed. The future looks bright for the varsity boys soccer program!
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TRACK & FIELD Coaches: Kevin Weatherill, Michael Floyd, Sarah Singleton and Charles Heffner For the fourth consecutive year (and second year on campus), MA hosted the Class 3A and 4A, Section I Championship. Individuals finishing in the top six in their respective event qualified for the State Championship meet held one week later at Birmingham-Southern College. State qualifiers included: Audrey Woika (javelin, pole vault, discus), Erin Katz (400, long jump, javelin), Ellie Herron (1600, 3200), Drake McGowin (pole vault, 800), Emily Pierce (800), Maggie Beasley (3200), Haley Parco (400), Jennie Austin (100H), Corrie Tankersley (300H), Gigi Starling (300H), Kacky Starke (pole vault), Jesse Austin (pole vault), Patrick Weatherly (pole vault), Neill McCorvey (javelin), Taylor Dockery (3200), Tucker Helms (800), girls 4x100 (Bentley Hudson, Haley Parco, Barbara Ann Trotman, Ryan Terry), boys 4x100 (Julian Freeman, Justin Freeman, John Adams, Jesse Austin), girls 4x400 (Bentley Hudson, Haley Parco, Erin Katz, and Audrey Woika), and girls 4x800 (Emily Pierce, Maggie Beasley, Ellie Herron, and Krisie Stakely). The following weekend both teams competed admirably at the Class 3A State Championship. Congratulations to Drake McGowin for earning her second straight pole vault state championship! Other performances earning medals: Jesse Austin (pole vault), Audrey Woika (pole vault), and the girls‘ 4x400 team of Bentley Hudson, Haley Parco, and Audrey Woika. The future certainly looks bright for the 2012 season!
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