Kristen Linton Alsup ’00 Associate Director of Alumni and Development
Justice Wenzlick
Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving
Leo Qi ’24, Gerry Zhao ’25 Student Photographers
The Webb School Magazine is published biannually in the summer and winter by The Webb School, 319 Webb Road East, Bell Buckle, Tenn. The Webb School is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization: 64-0401875.
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319 Webb Road East Bell Buckle, Tenn. 37020 1-931-389-9322
A note from the Head of School
Webb’s 154th Commencement was a glorious celebration, and now, the summer of 2024 has begun throughout our beautiful, rolling hills. As I often do in the days after graduation, I reflected on the individual students in the class and the class as a collective. I also spent time considering the journey that these particular Webb students traveled with our faculty. In summary, I want to share a few of those reflections and considerations.
In so many ways, the Class of 2024 was emblematic of the best of Webb. The class, individually and collectively, pursued and, in many instances, achieved excellence in academics, arts, and athletics with character, honor, and integrity interwoven throughout all their endeavors. Their journey through Webb was guided by some extraordinary faculty who chose Webb specifically because of our small classes that allowed them to know their students very well. Our faculty created environments and programming that met these students where they were and nurtured and challenged them to reach some extraordinary heights, whether these seniors aspired to Vanderbilt, West Point, or Johns Hopkins, where several of our seniors are headed, or in-state schools like Chattanooga, MTSU, UTK, Belmont, and Sewanee, where several of our students will matriculate in the fall. The overall college choices for the class are strong and diverse. More than 62 percent will be attending a college or university in 18 different states outside of Tennessee and 35 percent are attending public and private colleges and universities in Tennessee. Three percent will attend college outside the U.S. Members of the class were offered merit scholarships of more than $3.5 million.
department chairs, our leadership team, and I consider the action steps in this pillar, we are focused on positive and healthy relationships between students and faculty and staff, research-based pedagogy, and highly effective, measurable student learning. Intentionally and collaboratively elevating each of these areas consistent with best practices according to independent school norms will be powerful fuel to achieve the kind of academic excellence that will cause our students to continue to flourish in ever-changing worlds in college and life beyond.
I look forward to a focus on this good and heady work this upcoming year as we pursue academic excellence. I cannot think of a better way for me to spend my final year at The Webb School. As most of you know, Cathy and I have been called to North Carolina, where our two, older daughters and their husbands live and where our first grandchild, born in March, is growing every day. In addition to investing in our family, I will be the head of school at St. David’s School in Raleigh. Cathy and I are and will forever be grateful to have spent five years of our lives investing in Webb and flourishing as many at Webb have invested in us and our daughter, Abby Faith, who is a member of Webb’s Class of 2025. There is much all of us will miss about this special place and an amazing group of boys and girls and men and women. We will enjoy the next year, continuing to help Webb flourish and live out its mission, Enduring Understandings, and vision in the most excellent ways and means. Enjoy the magazine and enjoy your summer. Godspeed.
As you peruse this edition of our magazine, you will read highlights from throughout the spring semester. Students, faculty and staff, alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends have enjoyed a robust and celebratory spring. All of us appreciated the fruits of much hard and effective work with powerful performances in academics, arts, and athletics. In addition to the overall high points and updates, you will find an extended focus on academic excellence at Webb. As we have shared in previous publications, one of our four strategic pillars in our strategic plan is to Pursue Excellence in Teaching and Learning. As the academic
Ken Cheeseman Head of School With Warm Regards,
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154th Commencement celebrated with 75 graduates, family, friends
Head of School Ken Cheeseman opened the celebration by greeting the graduating class.
“On behalf of our faculty, staff, and leadership at The Webb School, it is my great pleasure and honor to celebrate the Class of 2024 and welcome each one of you gathered today at the Commencement Exercises of our 154th school year.”
“You 75 students from 11 different countries in five different continents are a medley of talents, skills, passions and paths forward. We are so impressed by you and celebrate your accomplishments; we are grateful for the journey we shared with you.”
Prior to graduation, the students and their families joined faculty and staff at Baccalaureate, where Associate Head of School Jim Callis and Honor Council President Cooper Medling led the congregation in prayer. Callis also introduced the Baccalaureate speaker Lindsey Trice, Webb’s assistant athletic director.
Associate Head of School for Enrollment Management Dr. Tabetha Sullens ’94, delivered the invocation, and Cheeseman welcomed everyone including the members of the Board of Trustees in attendance. He also extended his gratitude to the parents and guardians of the Class of 2024.
“On behalf of our faculty and staff and on behalf of your children, I want to thank you for giving us faculty the blessing of knowing, caring for, and investing in your sons and daughters. I want to thank you for your investment in the nurturing and challenging of your children and the support you have given us faculty and staff as we have endeavored to do the same.”
Turning back to the graduating class, Cheeseman said, “I’m proud of you. You heeded Sawney Webb’s advice well; you did not shrink; you took a hand in the game; you were not just a spectator; you engaged. Along the way your academic strength was recognized by educators outside of Webb: The College Board’s National Merit Program has recognized seven of you for special commendations and one National Merit Scholar. Additionally, the College Board has recognized nine of you as AP Scholars with
“In the arts, you blessed us with a beautiful year; the fall production of “A Christmas Carol” delivered in the Black Box Theater was outstanding, as well as the spring performance of “Little Shop of Horrors” in the Follin Chapel. The fall and spring string concerts were tremendous; piano recitals were uplifting and inspirational; Springfest showed both light-heartedness and creativity from many of you that was a gift to many of us.
“Athletically, you led us through yet another successful year in the history of Webb athletics. You enjoyed numerous district and region team championships. Just this year, six teams finished among the final eight in our division at the state level, with one state champion team and another one as a state runner-up.”
This year’s commencement speaker, is a 2005 graduate of The Webb School, serves as the Board of Trustees Vice Chair. Introduced by Cheeseman as a “serial entrepreneur leading innovation at the intersection of biotechnology and artificial intelligence”, Dr. Chase Spurlock is currently the CEO and Co-Founder of Decode Health.
“What an amazing gift for me today ... to journey back and think about my awesome, transformative years here on campus,” Spurlock began. As I think about my time since graduation, I’ve slowly realized that I didn’t so much graduate ‘from Webb’ – rather, I graduated ‘into’ Webb.”
Dr. Spurlock shared personal stories and lessons he has learned from his time after graduating. He encouraged this year’s graduates to “give yourself permission to wander. It’s the process of wandering – taking a wide range of courses – experiencing new ideas and meeting new people – that feeds the imagination and enriches your life.” He emphasized the importance of building and investing in relationships.
“Woven into the tapestry of Webb life are our relationships. Relationships at Webb and beyond serve as ‘signposts in this strange land’ that sharpen us and make us stronger, truer versions of ourselves.”
The final lesson he imparted was to allow yourself to create margin.
Distinction, AP Scholars with Honors and as AP Scholars.
“What I keep coming back to in my mind is an important truth –that being busy doesn’t always mean you’re living .... Your time is among your most valuable assets, and who you spend it with and what causes you use your time to advance are precious. Make wise choices.
“If my teachers at Webb taught me one thing, it’s this – it’s that honor, in the end, is a creative act. We create honor for ourselves and this community by creating something in the world. Today, that message persists, and to each of you in the Class of 2024, this is my invitation and charge to you – to leave here today and go do it.”
The David Newton McQuiddy Award
As part of the ceremony, the head of school announced the 2023-2024 David Newton McQuiddy Award recipient as English teacher, David Cicotello. The award is given by the family of David Newton McQuiddy to honor a teacher whose integrity is outstanding, who is loyal to Webb and its ideals, who is dedicated to exceptional teaching, and who encourages sound character development and academic excellence in his/her students.
Cheeseman congratulated the honoree and mentioned his “passion for literature and learning are evident from the first day you meet him. His love of life and ability to connect with others and truly ‘see’ others has been a gift to The Webb School.”
The Head of School’s Award
Funded by the J Murray Hill ’75 Endowment, this award is intended to be given by the Head of School to fund any appropriate annual expense. This year an investment has been made to the W.I.L.D program towards professional development for wilderness first responder training and back-country medical supplies.
Student Awards and Honors
Many seniors were honored during the graduation ceremony. Student members of the Honor Council, Cooper Medling (President), Mary-Margaret Mayfield (Vice President), London Sullens (Secretary), Jaycie Bateman (Sergeant At Arms), were recognized for their service and dedication to a cornerstone of the Webb tradition since its founding 154 years ago.
Jaycie Bateman received the highest academic honor in the class, the Anna Landis Hightower Award, which honors the student with the highest grade-point average for four years at Webb and the John Hardin Highest Scholastic Award as the student who achieved the highest scholastic average in his/her senior year. Additionally, she was presented the Webb Follin Award, in memory of Gerald Webb Follin, as the senior with the highest cumulative English grade average.
Dr. Sullens presented the John Lewis Morgan Award to MaryMargaret Mayfield and Jaycie Bateman. The award celebrates the life of John Morgan, who served on The Webb School faculty for 43 years and as Head of School from 1959 until 1963. This award is presented annually to the student who has maintained a high standard of excellence in his or her academic work and demonstrated the highest qualities of good citizenship in the service of the school. The recipient is selected by vote of the faculty, and it represents the highest award presented to a
Strong relationships between Webb faculty/staff and students have long been touted for all the ways in which they deeply impact Webb students. Alumni of all ages are quick to mention strong bonds with specific teachers, coaches and other adults –relationships that helped them succeed academically and beyond.
Nicole Taucare, Assistant Head for Academics and Arts, knows the value of those relationships continues today.
“When I think about the power of the student-teacher relationship, I often think about a Ted Talk by well-known educator Rita Piersen that included, “Every child deserves a champion -- an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.”
Taucare added, “The faculty members have life experience. They have chosen to help our students become better versions of themselves. They do this through positive relationships. When students know that their teacher hopes for their success, it encourages them, and students will engage at a deeper level because they have someone who believes in them. They will be more successful. They will be tireless workers.”
The assistant head remarked that the most impactful way to present academic content is for students “to do”. “A gentleman in a workshop at the (Tennessee Association for Independent Schools) TAIS conference this year shared a realization he had about best practices when he was a young teacher. He said, ‘If the art teacher taught art the way I taught history, they would stand at the front of the room and paint as the students watched.’ I thought this was a great way to think about the classroom. If we want our students to be critical thinkers, we have to give them the opportunity to be critical thinkers.”
To that end, she said, faculty must
• provide clear lesson goals,
• give timely feedback,
• check for understanding,
• provide opportunities for collaboration,
• teach strategies and skills in addition to content, and
• help students understand how they best learn. Webb also has a strong Learning Services department with
multiple segments. The Study Center helps students through structured study environments that include tips on study habits, peer tutoring, and faculty mentoring. Learning Services for students with learning differences has two tiers: 1.) a support class to strengthen areas of weakness plus accommodations in classes and 2.) accommodations in classes. A faculty-facing “segment” provides additional teaching support by means of observation and feedback.
The diversity within the school is something that is celebrated. “In a global society, our students will encounter others from all walks of life, as they do here at Webb. Our students learn to communicate and collaborate with people from different cultures,” Taucare explained. “Webb is like a microcosm of the society in which our students will likely live and work and what better way to prepare them to celebrate differences, and not be afraid of them, than to do so in Bell Buckle.
“The residential program allows students and our residential faculty and families to share in community; it pushes us to learn what communal living means and at the root of that is respect, which is essential to a harmonious society.”
Additionally, she said, “Our arts, athletics, and WILD programs push students to learn about themselves in settings other than the traditional classroom. These programs teach students about the importance of developing their gifts, honoring commitments, and collaboration. What a student learns as part of a troupe or a team, may make a lasting impression on how he or she will go about collaborating in future work.”
Taucare noted that a lot can be said about one’s community of peers. “Learning is social, and kids learn from one another. They can solidify their knowledge, develop critical social and emotional skills, provide a sense of belonging and acceptance as well as provide encouragement. What students contribute to the classroom can certainly positively affect their peers around them.”
Webb’s metrics are used to determine an individual student’s progress and attainment of academic goals. Internal metrics in every class determine learning outcomes, and those are the “north star” for the class, according to Taucare. “The learning outcomes are broken down into smaller learning targets/goals. We use these targets/goals as the roadmap to learning.” External metrics, such as the ERBs/PSAT/SAT/ACT are also used for data to help with bigger picture goals. “The data from these tests will help us in a curriculum review cycle that we will begin next year.”
While appreciation is often expressed by parents and students each year in different ways, Taucare said, “faculty often tell stories about students who reached out to them 5-10-20 years after graduation to tell them that they made a difference in their life.”
STRONG RELATIONSHIPS KEY ROLE IN ACADEMICS, ARTS, ATHLETICS ACHIEVEMENT
Brooke Haskins
Graduate of Middle Tennessee State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Language Studies, Bachelor of Science Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology, and Master of Arts in Teaching Spanish.
Three years in secondary education, a year and a half as a graduate teaching assistant and two years at Webb • Teach 8th-12th grades in Spanish I, Spanish III standard, and Spanish IV Standard • Rand Hall dorm parent
Jennifer Gay
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, and Master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with a K-12 principal certification from The University of Texas at Arlington.
In education for 20 years -- first grade for 14 years, fourth grade for three years, an instructional coach for one year and two years at Webb • Teach the sixth grade Focus course, was middle school study center coordinator first year • 20232024 Learning Services assistant director, working with teachers on classroom instruction • Summer Program director and middle school volleyball head coach.
I measure my success as an educator in what my students take from my class. I find it crucial to educate my students with moral integrity along with our Spanish lessons. My students are aware that I care for them in how I invest time into their educational experience. I make an effort to attend at least one game, play, art show, concert, etc. for my advisees and any student who asks me to attend something. Your students know who shows up for them at the end of the day. Most will not draw notice to it; however, their gratitude is evident in how they interact with you moving forward. Seeing my students perform in activities that they enjoy allows me to understand them better as a person. Being a dorm parent has allowed me to support my students and the greater boarding community.
Kevin Finn
I want to help students realize their potential, push them to succeed and do things they didn’t know they could ever do, and help create their future. I always want to create a classroom in which my students know I care about them, and they know I am in their corner championing for their success. It was obvious from the first time we stepped onto the campus that the teachers and all stakeholders truly care about the success of every student. I knew as a teacher this would be a place where I could learn and grow in my knowledge and experience and that my children would also learn and grow and be challenged to be their very best. I get to become more than a teacher. It is incredible to watch the students transform into young adults who are ready for the next steps in life.
Bachelor of Arts in English from Wilkes University and MAT in English from University of Binghamton
Taught 20 years full time in college/secondary schools and three part-time in various settings (college courses, zoo, museum, five years at Webb • Teach English IV and AP Literature for the last four years and middle school prior to that • Taught just about every upper school grade-level at some point • English Department chair, senior class co-advisor and Model U.N./Youth in Government Club sponsor.
The most fulfilling aspects while teaching at Webb include the opportunity to attend Senior Survival, for sure. A week in the woods with the group of students I’ve just spent the entire year teaching? Where else is that possible? I can’t think of a better way to end each year. In general, the opportunity to get to know just about every student at every grade level, to watch them grow up as they move across this big, beautiful campus is also fulfilling. Earlier this year, a few of my phenomenal students lobbied me to sponsor a Youth in Government Club. It was remarkable, as was the time we got to spend together working in the Tennessee capitol building for four days (at a conference). When we returned home, a parent reached out to say that her daughter was thinking about an entirely different career path as a result of the experience and I thought, oh yes, this is why we do this. It really does make a difference.
Michael Stem
Graduate of Middle Tennessee State University with a BFA and a focus in printmaking, ceramics, and sculpture.
Five years at Webb • Initially, taught 6th-12th, but for the last two years, my program has expanded at such a rate that now I only teach upper school • Chambliss Dorm parent for three years, two as dorm head, Honor Society Committee member the last two years, and in August will begin as Fine Arts Department co-chair alongside Janet Linton.
It is fulfilling watching some of my students go from “not artistic” to using every bit of their free time to be in the ceramics studio making beautiful work… I could go on and on about the importance of relationships. I tell people regularly that the largest part of my job is building relationships. As a studio instructor, my students know that if I ask a question about them, I’m sincerely curious. This allows me to find connections with everyone quickly and builds a solid bond, resulting in the knowledge I’m trying to impart to them being taken seriously. When that’s taken seriously, they can apply it and begin on their path to growth. Outside of the classroom, I have often found myself in the role of a mentor. It’s nice to be able to provide wisdom and perspective to these young men and women when they need someone to listen to them.
Pamela Seals
Graduate of Boston University with a Bachelor of Arts, Biology with a concentration in Marine Science, and Tennessee State University, a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction.
Completed 27th year teaching -- four in a private school, 10 in Metro Nashville Public Schools and 13 at Webb • Teach 9th graders and 11/12th graders and teach Biology, AP Biology and AP Environmental Science, but have taught 7th grade Life Science, Physics to freshmen and Anatomy & Physiology • Science Department chair and National Honor Society and Alla Webb Scholar sponsor.
I have truly been able to develop lasting relationships with my students. I get to see their growth as a scholar but also as a human being. Working at Webb allows me to be part of the whole child. I get to know their families, their siblings, even their pets. I know where they are going to college and what they are passionate about. I get to be like a pseudo parent to them, and this is very fulfilling to me. I don’t just teach them from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. and leave. I have deep relationships with my advisees and see them as my special children to care for like they were my own. Many of my students are far from home and just need that extra ear or the occasional motherly hug. I get to do that at Webb. It is an absolute privilege to partner with families to help raise their children. This partnership is very fulfilling for me.
Rosie Arellano
Graduated from David Lipscomb University with a BA in Education and a M.Ed., and from Tennessee State University as a Licensed Professional Counselor
Completed 21 years teaching, six years at Webb • Teach 6-12 grades and all levels (PassPort, Spanish 1, 2, IV Honors and AP Spanish), of Spanish, except level 3 • teach five sections in the World Languages Department • lead the Webb World Wide Club during one semester
Tim Ford
Bachelor’s degree in Education from Arizona State University and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Concordia University in Portland, Ore.
Taught for 16 years -- two at Webb • Teach World II (sophomore) and one section each World I and U.S. History • girls varsity lacrosse head coach and Haynes Hall dorm parent.
While my primary role is teaching Spanish to middle school and high school students, I view myself as more than just an instructor; I see myself as a facilitator of personal growth. By instilling a sense of care and respect for each student, I cultivate a reciprocal relationship where students are motivated to excel. In essence, my journey as an educator is driven by a deep-seated desire to empower young minds and contribute positively to my community and beyond. In our classroom, fostering strong teacher-student relationships is at the heart of our educational journey. My students can feel embraced and empowered to flourish both academically and personally.
Some of the most fulfilling aspects at Webb include the more one-on-one I get with each student -- getting to know them, what they think and feel. As a residential staff member, it allows me to be in contact with other students I may not normally get a chance to meet and get to know. You can see the Webb difference in action and a sense of pride students have as you enter a room, walk the halls, and stroll the campus. It really shows when you attend your students’ events, and the students notice when you do. It builds strong relationships that transfer into the classroom and the effort students are willing to make. Webb does a great job in fostering these relationships with many opportunities. From advisory to clubs, to sports and oncampus events, we as teachers are able to build strong teacherstudent relationships that help promote strong community.
Academics
Bateman begins pursuit at Vanderbilt to become developmental pediatrician
“My favorite time is when I’m walking to classes – the beautiful scenery allows a time to reflect as you’re taking in all of Webb. I’m beyond grateful to have had that experience every school day for five years. It’s something I could not have had anywhere else and definitely something I’ll miss.”
Class of 2024 graduate Jaycie Bateman, a native of Shelbyville, Tenn., will attend Vanderbilt University, her first choice, in the fall majoring in neuroscience with a psychology minor. She was an early decision applicant and was accepted.
“I was so lucky with Vanderbilt because not only does it offer amazing academic opportunities, it also just happens to be an hour away, so I can remain closer to my home and family.”
She received a Vanderbilt Scholarship, the Ned McWherter Scholars Program Scholarship, an Epsilon Sigma Alpha Foundation Scholarship and the Tennessee Valley Authority Power Play Scholarship.
Her career goal is to go to medical school -- a reflection of her academic strengths and her personal passions -- ultimately becoming a developmental pediatrician, who works with those who have disabilities. Bateman said she loves children and working to help them and their parents in a local setting is important. She thinks programs such as those offered by the Community Development Center in her hometown in conjunction with a developmental pediatrician would make services easier for families to access. They would not have to travel to a metropolitan area to receive the additional medical care they need. And she sees a value in helping prepare parents for the lives of their children who will not be able to live independently.
It was Bateman’s passion for and involvement in Best Buddies, an international organization, that helped hone her career choice.
--Jaycie Bateman
A goal to help Tennessee’s disabled led her to form a Best Buddies Chapter at Webb during the 2022-2023 school year that continued to benefit students at a local elementary school during the 2023-2024 – her senior year.
On the bestbuddies.org website, the group is described as “the world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower the special abilities of people with IDD by helping them form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure successful jobs, live independently, improve public speaking, self-advocacy, and communication skills, and feel valued by society.”
Her senior year held a special honor as she was one of 10 across Tennessee chosen to be a champion of the year and carry out a fundraising campaign for the organization. She came in third and was the only high school student in the field of finalists. Bateman raised $48,865 from donations, sponsorships and silent and live auctions proceeds for the Best Buddies campaign total.
“My motivation for this fundraising campaign was to create a more inclusive future for disabled children across Tennessee, especially the kids I have come to love so much at the local elementary school,” Bateman explained. “My hope is that when they are grown, they are welcomed into a world that accepts them for who they are, sees their value and willfully chooses to employ them.”
Bateman enrolled at Webb in the 8th grade and garnered several honors including serving as Honor Council sergeant-at-arms and class vice president during her senior year, being named an
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Senior Symposium culmination of Emerging Voices
Members of the Class of 2024 recently participated in Senior Symposium that spanned three days and was presented concurrently in multiple locations on campus. The Senior Capstone Project, the symposium showcases the final presentations of Webb’s Emerging Voices signature program.
As part of the program, seniors are encouraged to “Find Your Voice, and Use Your Voice!” They examine a specific, preferably local or community-related, issue. Then, through research, they develop a practical, viable solution for addressing the issue to create change within the community. The symposium preparation requires a written report prior to in-person presentations. Seniors field questions from the audience of students, faculty, staff, and guests to complete the presentation.
Parents’ support, view of academics and Webb help lead Medling to West Point
Cooper Medling did not set out to become a National Merit Scholar nor did he expect to be accepted to three of the United States Service Academies. But as a member of the Class of 2024, he achieved those honors.
“I was home-schooled for a number of years. My early academic habits and view of academics are from my parents (Dr. Brad and Shannon Medling). I think it was more a consequence of how I was raised and how my parents encouraged me to attack academics.”
Medling wasn’t fully aware of the National Merit Scholarship Program until he took a practice test as a sophomore. “I did pretty well. After that, my parents encouraged me to study.” He began completing the rest of the scholarship program process, was named a finalist in February eligible to receive a scholarship and in April received the merit scholarship.” I didn’t really expect to receive the final award, but it was awesome to get it. It felt like the culmination of a lot of hard work.”
It was also Medling’s background that led to his applications to the service academies. He applied to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md., and the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He received two congressional nominations to West Point, one to the naval academy, and to the Air Force Academy and was accepted into the institution’s Martinson Honors Program.
“Ever since I can remember, I wanted to go to a military academy. It’s one of the reasons that I came to Webb,” he said, adding
4 accepted to Tennessee Governor’s Schools
Nick Allison, Bell Buckle -- Governor’s School for the Arts at Middle Tennessee State University
that the school had what he needed to be prepared. He initially favored the Air Force Academy, and in his sophomore year became interested in the Naval Academy. What led him to West Point was a conversation with Buck Smith, Webb English teacher and West Point graduate, plus keeping in touch with Webb friend Carter Sublette ’23, who is completing his first year at West Point. “Some of the things Mr. Smith said hit home and made an impact. I still remember it word for word. The more I looked into it and the more I researched, West Point became a top pick pretty quickly.”
“The application process began in July 2023. My dad helped me when I was confused about the process, and my mom is always supportive. Medling and his father visited West Point in April. “It was a really good trip. I had a lot of good conversations, and I realized West Point excited me. “I knew it was the place for me when I got excited about little things like trying on the parts of the uniform.” For Medling, that was it. Within a week, he chose West Point.
While he was confident about his decision, he did think about time management, a skill that he mastered at Webb combining academics, sports, free time and spending two hours in his car each day commuting to Webb. “West Point is a high-stress environment on purpose. It’s said that you are given 100 things to do and time to do 50. Having every minute of my day accounted for will be a challenge.”
An observer might say Medling has been preparing for this future all his life with his attitude toward challenges – academics and athletics – “that my parents instilled in me.”
A native of Milton, Tenn., he enrolled at Webb in the 8th grade. He served on Student Council four years; Honor Council two years, one as president; was a member of the cross-country team for five
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Lane Comstock , Shelbyville -- Governor’s School for Sciences and Engineering at University of Tennessee Knoxville
Quinn Shibayama , Murfreesboro -- Governor’s School for International Studies at University of Memphis
Abigail Voorhes-Fontenot , Shelbyville -Governor’s School for Integration of Biological and Statistical Sciences at East Tennessee State University
Qi wants to leverage knowledge, experience, values to serve others
Long before Leo Qi set foot on campus, he began his Webb experience. A resident of Beijing, China, he spent his ninth grade in 2020-2021 studying virtually. He arrived in Bell Buckle in the fall of 2021 as a 10th grader and was a boarding student for three years.
Qi will attend Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Md., this fall majoring in history and economics –areas of study that reflect his academic strengths throughout his years at Webb and also his personal passions.
Speaking of his interest in economics, he said, “My dad is a businessman, and he influenced me a lot, so that was a very personal path for me.” Qi’s love of history was sparked in ninth grade by Jon Chicken, a former Webb history teacher. “He was a very interesting teacher whose teaching initiated me into pursuing history.”
“I’m very excited about attending Johns Hopkins. When I was choosing a college, I wanted to make sure I fit the college, the college fit me, and I’m a person the college wanted,” said Qi. “I spent months of research looking into various schools. I applied to Johns Hopkins because the university has a very strong history program and also a Washington, D.C. campus. I love Washington.
Attending Johns Hopkins will give me great opportunities.”
One of Qi’s early interactions with the Webb community before arriving on campus was participating with his parents (Michael Qi and Hua Bai) and other Chinese families, in a Zoom meeting with Head of School Ken Cheeseman and other administrators. His father helped organize the event with alumnus and Board of Trustee member Olly Wang ’09. The focus was to mitigate some technical issues with the students’ virtual studies and to learn more about Webb’s academics and culture. With his father, he continued to serve as a liaison for current and prospective Chinese families.
An accomplished pianist, while a virtual student, Qi won the Gold Medal in the China Finals of the 5th Chopin International Youth Piano (China Amateur Group) competition and won gold and silver medals in the Liszt Ferenc International Youth Classic Music Week Piano Competition.
Once on campus, Qi performed during numerous concerts, recitals, Fine Arts Week and other special events. He also provided the accompaniment for Webb’s annual Service of Lessons and Carols in December and each Monday chapel as the students, faculty and staff sang “Integer Vitae”, the school’s alma mater.
At Webb, Qi was an AP Scholar, received the book award for Advanced Piano in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and in 2023, the
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Shibayama Outstanding Statesperson, bill passed at Youth in Government Conference
Webb students were selected to join their peers from across the state as participants in the 71st Annual YMCA Youth in Government capitol conference. The spring event was sponsored by the YMCA Center for Civic Engagement in Nashville. Attending as part of Webb’s first contingent at the conference were Nick Allison, Serik Bilbro, Lane Comstock, Sarah Deaton, Olivia Dugdale, Bebe Faulkner, Anne Marie Florida, Caleb Hagan, Adie Norris and Quinn Shibayama. Kevin Finn, Webb English Department chair and sponsor, accompanied the students. All are members of the class of 2025 except Falkner, who is a 2024 graduate.
According to the website, “The Tennessee YMCA Youth in Government Program is an annual conference designed to offer
high school and middle school students a hands-on experience with state government. Each year, over 2,500 students from across the state converge on the State Capitol, taking the places of our real government officials. Program participants can serve as senators or representatives, as justices and lawyers, as department commissioners and lobbyists, or even as press corps members.”
Highlights of the conference included: Shibayama was named Outstanding Statesperson for her Senate group; Shibayama and Dugdale successfully passed their bill in the Senate and had it signed into law by the conference governor; Norris was elected as next year’s Video Director for the Conference Press Corps.; Comstock, Florida, Bilbro, Hagan, Dugdale and Shibayama all presented and debated bills in the House or Senate; Falkner served as a lobbyist; and Allison and Norris worked in the Press Corps filing stories, working on videos and taking photographs.
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Callaway studies anthropology, pathology as McDonnell-Follin Scholar
Pathology, anthropology, and mortuary science are all strong interests of Julia Callaway that may help inform her continued education and career path. She was named the 2023-2024 McDonnell-Follin Scholar which allowed her to deepen her knowledge of these sciences and earn course credit. The scholar program in its fifth year provides for independent study during a Webb junior’s spring semester. Callaway’s topic for the independent study was “An anthropological and pathological study of the processes of decomposition.” As part of the McDonnell-Follin Scholars Program, the recipient is assisted by a Webb faculty mentor, and the culmination of the study is a chapel presentation about the research and other findings. Callaway’s mentors were Dr. Theresa Heindel, leader, and Nikhil Reddy ’06 co-leader. Heindel is a Webb history teacher and former anthropologist, and Reddy, a former Webb chemistry teacher and former biochemist who helped design an HIV therapeutic.
7 participate in Boys State, Girls State
Seven students participated in Tennessee American Legion Boys State and the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State this summer. Nick Allison attended Tennessee Boys State that was hosted on the campus of Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville on May 19-24. Tennessee Girls State at Lipscomb University in Nashville was May 26-June 1, and Olivia Dugdale, Adie Norris,
Norris attends course at University of St. Andrews in Scotland
Adie Norris was accepted to study psychology and neuroscience at The University of St. Andrews in Scotland in July. She spent the month participating in a program designed for high school juniors and seniors to learn under the tutelage of St. Andrews faculty in the Scottish academic tradition. “I’m interested in studying neuroscience with the ultimate goal of going to medical school for psychiatry, so this program is a unique opportunity to combine both my love for Scotland and interest in studying neuroscience at one of the best universities in the world.”
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Quinn Shibayama, Macy Simon and Ryan Sublette, all members of the class of 2025, attended. Ainsley Dulaney participated in Mississippi American Legion Auxiliary Girls State June 9-15 in Oxford at The University of Mississippi. Rising seniors from across the state receive leadership and citizenship training at the events.
Middle School students receive book awards, 8th graders graduate
Middle School students, family and friends came together for a special ceremony in May that included the presentation of traditional and special awards, the announcement of a declamation contest winner and the graduation of the eighthgrade class. Eighth grade graduates received certificates and pins to add to their senior blazers in four years.
Upper School students’ achievements recognized
Upper school students were recognized on May 13 at the 2024 Book Awards Ceremony. Students in grades 9th-12th received book awards, special awards, and university awards.
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Florida, Miller recipients of Johnson-Fort Endowed Travel Scholarship
Class studies integumentary system, hearts
Whitney Bassham’s anatomy class recently studied a mini unit about the integumentary system. Students learned how to suture and put their skills to the test on the lab’s model skin. Students completed two different sutures: an interrupted simple suture and a figure 8 suture. Anatomy students finished their cardiovascular system in time to dissect hearts for Valentine’s Day. Bassham’s students learned about the structures and functions of the heart and dissected a sheep heart having to identify each structure in real time while recalling the function for each on their lab practical. The students also learned about absorption and excretion and dissected kidneys leading up to their fetal pig dissection in May.
Quebec, Florida’s Santa Fe River are winter break destinations
Anne Marie Florida ’25 and Jorie Miller ’25 were named recipients of the Johnson-Fort Endowed Travel Scholarship for the 20232024 school year. Trustee John F. “Jeff” Whorley ’79 established the scholarship in 2017. In naming the scholarship, Whorley chose to honor two of his teachers, Alsey Johnson and Joyce Fort, whose impact inspired him. At the time, Whorley noted that he strongly believes in the educational benefits of international travel and endowed this fund to support a student towards a Webb-sponsored international trip.
Florida will travel to Scotland and London with Webb theatre program director Ruth Cordell as part of the Webb Company Players, who will perform in the American High School Theatre Festival on the International Stage at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024 in August.
Miller applied for the travel scholarship to help defray the cost of Webb’s travel-study trip to Greece that she took with other students during spring break.
Winter break for groups of students and faculty/ staff leaders means different experiences. One group traveled to Quebec with
Jason Simpson, World Languages Department chair. The group enjoyed Quebec City, Martello Tower, and Sainte-Anne de Beaupre Basilica and other sights and activities. That break for other students meant enjoying a five-day Santa Fe River canoe trip near High Springs, Fla.
Finn, Tilton Senior Luncheon speakers
Senior Survival
Members of the Class of 2024 were guests at the annual Senior Luncheon in May. The event, hosted by the Office of Alumni and Development and the school’s Alumni Association, was attended by several members of the Alumni Board, Head of School Ken Cheeseman, leadership team members and advisors to the senior class and guests, including Alumni Board President Libby Willis ’80 and Vice President Kaleb Tilton ’12. Kevin Finn, English Department chair, was selected by the senior class to be the guest speaker; and Tilton gave the charge and welcome into the Alumni Association. Samantha Kirby and Sydney Gilley, both of Manchester, Tenn., were announced as the 2024 Class Agents. Senior Chapel followed the luncheon and seniors headed off to Senior Survival the following day.
Mock Trial Team goes to district
Members of the Class of 2024 capped their years at Webb on Senior Survival hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail the week before graduation. Faculty/staff leaders joined seniors to enjoy the tradition of spending their final days together.
Webb’s Mock Trial team attended their annual district competition in February with 12 teams competing. Lawyers for this year’s team were Winston Dugdale, Maddie Smith, London Sullens, Olivia Dugdale, and Abigail Voorhees-Fontenot. Witness roles were portrayed by Reagan Bawcum, Serik Bilbro, Olivia Dugdale, Iris Lin, Willa Kate Shofner and Hadassah Stubbs. The team was coached by Dr. Christopher Candy, History Department chair, and Jason Simpson, World Languages Department chair. Simpson said Webb faced leading teams in the district during the first two rounds, “demonstrating exceptional legal precision and witness characterization throughout.” He added that the second-round judge commented, “These are both A+ teams. The only question is which team was more A+.’ Although Webb didn’t proceed from the third round to the final, Simpson noted the team’s performance in district competition was a testament to their hard work and to the accurate scholarship, good sportsmanship, maturity, and public speaking skills that a Webb education fosters.
Bardin accepted into The University of Amsterdam’s summer programme
Iakov Bardin, a sophomore at The Webb School, was accepted into The University of Amsterdam’s summer programme PreUniversity Honours Programme: Politics & Identity. Bardin, a native of Russia, had to meet specific academic requirements and was required to write an essay for acceptance.
“One reason I’m excited to be accepted into this summer program is that I would eventually like to attend
the University of Amsterdam,” Bardin said. “I’m looking forward to studying history in Europe, which has been a place that has greatly influenced modern day history and politics.”
The University of Amsterdam website notes that it “is a top100 university globally and ranks as one of Europe’s 20 best universities. The UvA is ambitious, creative and committed: a leader in international science and a partner in innovation, the UvA has been inspiring generations since 1632.”
Ellis RCSD cadet
Aiden Ellis is preparing for future education and a career in crime scene/forensic science. He is participating in the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office Public Safety Cadet Program. He attends classes each week to continue to understand the functions and responsibilities of law enforcement. He started this program at the beginning of the 20232024 school year and will continue until he graduates from Webb. For the last four years, he has assisted the National Narcotic Dog Detection Agency during the man trailing training events.
MS Citizenship Awards
Middle school students are recognized in chapel each month as Citizenship Award recipients. The spring semester awards were presented to Kaleb King, Maruca Botea, Zakkary Ramsey, Jon Colton Kimbro, Blake Davis, Emery Potts, Chace Lingle and Kathy Huang.
Tennessee’s Savage Gulf and Greece attractions for spring break
Seven students traveled to Savage Gulf State Park in Tennessee for a four-day, threenight backpacking trip during spring break in March. Greece was the destination for 25 students and four faculty members. The group traveled through the country visiting Athens, Delphi, the Thermopylae and Meteora Region, Thessaloniki, Dion and other sites touring museums, villages, archaeological parks, a monastery and battle site.
Special events celebrate diversity
The Webb community enjoyed fireworks on campus Feb. 10 welcoming the Year of the Dragon for the Chinese New Year. Following the fireworks, Chinese students prepared a New Year’s Eve dinner, and a party and other activities followed. The Diversity Council planned and coordinated observances during Black History Month with several students and faculty members participating in chapel talks, and Curtis Jenkins ’92 as a special chapel speaker. In honor of Women’s History Month in March, Webb hosted a “Gratitude and Empowerment” event with refreshments in the Bond Library to reflect on and honor women. Other activities during the month included a special chapel presentation by senior Samantha Kirby. Alumna Tatiana Jenkins ’15, a successful makeup artist, was a guest for a luncheon and to meet Webb ladies. Originally scheduled for Black History Month, her visit coincided with International Women’s Day, March 8. Webb ladies had the opportunity to learn about entrepreneurial skills, skin care, makeup, and more. Observances were capped with Diversity Week in April with chapel talks by council members and placement in the dell of flags representing students’ countries.
Sutton, Elfersy win MS Bees
Carson Sutton won the annual middle school Geography Bee. Elijah Simons was second, and John Riley Farrar placed third. Jackson Elfersy won the middle school Spelling Bee with Jasmine Judge placing second and Bratten Cook placing third.
Arts
Webb Company Players present “Little Shop of Horrors”
The Webb Company Players performed “Little Shop of Horrors” as the spring play.
The play cast included: DooWop Singers - Scout Harding, Kylie Singer, Hadassah Stubbs, Mary-Lane Taylor, Maggie Williams, Ray Zhang; Mushnick, Nick Allison; Audrey, Anne Marie Florida; Seymour, Caden Williams; Orin, Derelict, Bernstein, Snip, Luce, Etc., Winston A. Dugdale; Audrey II Voice, Gabe Blake; Audrey II Puppeteers, Trynna Atwood, Jason Simpson, World Languages Department chair; Alternate Puppeteer, Eamon Norris, and guest appearance, Nicole Taucare, assistant head for academics and arts; voiceover recordings, James Garcia.
The crew included: Director/Choreographer, Ruth Cordell; Associate Director, Maryanna Walton, English Department Faculty; Music Coaches, Janet Linton, Fine Arts Department chair, Tyler Shaw, Fine Arts Department faculty; Stage Manager 1, London Sullens; Stage Manager 2, Catherine French; Back Stage Manager, Jessie Felder; Art Painters, Props, Bebe Falkner, Scout
Harding, Amira Sahut; Control Booth - Lights and Sound, Sullens, French, Gillian O’Connell; Follow Spot Operators, Tallan Crosslin, Grayson Harrell; Production Help, Atwood, Mary Austin, Santiago De La Torre Escamilla, Falkner, Felder, Gray Hamilton, Harrell, Iris Helm, Aspen Northcutt, Nova Northcutt, Lilah Lawson, Norris; Makeup/Hair, Willa Kate Shofner, Olivia Dugdale, Cast, Cordell; Costumes, Lori Gann Smith, Melissa Durmon, Nashville Repertory Theatre; Audrey II Puppets, Jason Griffey, Manchester Arts Center, Construction, Timothy French, Marcus Johnson, Design Assistance, Jimmy Boggess and Brent Florida.
Thespian awards tea hosted
Theatre awards for the 2023-2024 school year were presented to students by Ruth Cordell, theatre director, during the annual Thespian Awards Tea. Among those recognized were the following students: Outstanding Technician, London Sullens; Outstanding New Technician, Catherine French; Outstanding Lead Player, Anne Marie Florida; Outstanding Lead Player, Winston Dugdale; Outstanding Character Player, Ray Zhang; Outstanding Performance “Little Shop of Horrors”, Caden Williams; Outstanding Supporting Player, Scout Harding; Outstanding Supporting Player, Mary-Lane Taylor; Outstanding New Player-Actor & Tech, Trynna Atwood; Outstanding New Tech, “Little Shop of Horrors”, Jessie Felder; Positivity and Grit, Maggie Williams. All students received Player Participation Pins.
Attending the tea were, left to right, front: Trynna Atwood. Maggie Williams, Natalia Front, Hadassah Stubbs; middle: Caden Williams, Kylie Singer, Catherine French, Scout Harding, Sophia Bain, Charlotte Toy, Mary-Lane Taylor; and back: London Sullens, Winston A. Dugdale, Lane Comstock, Anne Marie Florida and Nick Allison.
Webb Company Players to perform at Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland
Twelve Webb students will travel to perform in the American High School Theatre Festival at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland in August. It is the second time a troupe from Webb has performed at the festival, following The Webb Company Players’ trip in 2011.
There will be four performances of “The Bard and the Riverboat”, a play adapted from the works of Mark Twain and WIlliam Shakepeare by Ruth Cordell, Webb’s Theatre Program director. Cordell, Maryanna Walton, associate director, and family members will accompany the group.
Cordell describes the play, “Mark Twain and William Shakespeare are presented as unparalleled masters of language, wit, and drama. Their words are brought to life celebrating genius, illuminating artistic fervor, affirming timeless significance and a shared love of language and storytelling.”
On stage will be Winston Dugdale – Mark Twain, Nick Allison, Scout Harding, Caden Williams, Anne Marie Florida, Trynna Atwood, Kylie Singer and Ray Zhang. London Sullens, company stage manager, lights and sound, and playing viola; Catherine French, stage manager, lights and sound; and Jessie Felder, backstage manager, complete the cast and crew.
In addition to their performances, students will study in master classes, meet fellow high schoolers and see their performances and live on the University of Edinburgh campus. They also will enjoy the greater Fringe Festival 24, tour historical sights and return with college credit for the production.
Spring Fest offers evening of musical entertainment
Strings and piano students performing pieces by Bach in the chapel, middle school music classes performing concert featuring country and blues classics and hits, and a variety of rock songs from three decades, were all the attraction for the large crowd that attended Webb’s Spring Fest April 19. A Student Councilsponsored talent show for upper school students capped the evening of entertainment.
Spring Fest is a yearly concert series sponsored by the Fine Arts and Student Life departments.
Spring Strings Concert
The String Orchestra Spring Concert was staged in April in the Follin Chapel. Orchestra teacher and director Susan Mullen also recognized seniors at this annual event.
6th graders perform in Elementary Mass Choir
Ten 6th-grade students participated in the Middle Tennessee Elementary Mass Choir. It was a first for Webb 6th graders. This event brought together nearly 300 4th-6th graders from across the Middle Tennessee region for a day of musical collaboration and celebration. Participants included Lucas Deaton, Elizabeth DeJean, Cosette Germain, Ellie Holland, Samantha Rogers, Grace Shibayama, Cameron Snyder, Mikaela Taucare, Lily Tennant, and Sophie Townsend.
Art Show
Art created in Webb’s classes, along with other students’ submissions were highlighted during an art show and reception in Lundin Fine Arts Center during spring semester. Visitors to the center enjoyed beverages and charcuterie fare as they viewed the students’ creations. The event was hosted by the Fine Arts Department and coordinated by Michael Stem, Bella Crow and Marynn Spurlock, Webb art teachers.
“I am so happy that we had the opportunity to highlight the wonderful artists we have at Webb. I was approached by Julia Callaway last year to host this event. She thought it would be great for art students to have an official event to celebrate their work and strengthen their resumes,” said Spurlock. “We additionally thought it was important to give these students a night that was just about them, where all the attention was on them.”
Several students also described their experience and the performance: “It was good because there was a diverse selection of songs.” -- Ellie Holland
“I liked performing with students from other grades.”-- Samantha Rogers “My favorite song was ‘Sisi Kushangilia’ because it was fun to learn a song in a new language.” --
Mikaela Taucare
Blake, Harding, Williams in Lee University High School Honors Choir
Gabe Blake, Scout Harding, Caden Williams participated in Lee University’s annual honor choir for high school students. While there, they had the opportunity to work with choral directors, Dr. Cameron Weatherford (Assistant Professor of Choral Music, Lee University) and Dr. Jeff Johnson (Director of Choral Activities, University of Kentucky) on five musical selections to prepare for a final concert on Saturday. All students were invited by their choir director, and the songs were prepared in advance.
“The students worked incredibly hard before and during this event, and I am incredibly proud of each student’s musical progress as singers,” said Tyler Shaw, Webb choir director. “I am truly honored to have these people in the inaugural year of The Webb Singers.”
Elfersy joins Hollywood Honors Concert; selected for Mid-State orchestra
Jackson Elfersy, an eighth grader in Webb’s orchestra program, joined performers from all over the country in June for a special performance at the worldfamous Ambassador Auditorium. The finalists came together in Hollywood, Calif., where they had the week learning from worldrenowned conductors, working with other performers, and getting a taste of Hollywood. The week culminated with the Honors Performance. Earlier this year, Elfersy auditioned alongside approximately 80 skilled violists and secured the 5th chair in the Mid-State Orchestra ensemble.
“Jackson is a dedicated student at The Webb School, where he not only excels academically but also shines in the world of music,” said Susan Mullen, Webb orchestra director.
Dr. Linton special chapel speaker
Dr. Michael Linton, Middle Tennessee State University music professor, was a special chapel speaker in spring. His presentation touched on the power of math, music, the golden ratio, and integrity. Dr. Linton is married to Janet Linton, Webb Fine Arts Department chair, and is the father of three Webb graduates, Kristen Linton Alsup ’00, Elizabeth Linton ’04 , and Karen Linton ’07
Dance Marathon aids hospital
In partnership with Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital and Vanderbilt University, Webb supported Dance Marathon. This national student-led organization supports Children’s Miracle Network fundraising efforts for life-saving treatment, medical research, healthcare services, and support for pediatric patients and their families. Through a number of fundraisers, $3,377.24 was raised.
Students of the Month Scholar,
Artist, Student-Athlete
December – Mary-Margaret Mayfield ’24, Ray Zhang ’24, Claire Taylor-Hill ’27
January – Lane Comstock ’25, Davis Arnold ’25, Sophie McInturff ’25
February – Henry Allsup ’24, Camille McCamey ’24, Mai Phan ’24
March – Micah Robison ’27, London Sullens ’24, Samantha Kirby ’24
April – Gerry Zhao ’25, Nick Allison ’25, Aysha Hosam ’25
Rose honored with WSPA Faculty Enrichment Award
Samantha Rose, assistant dean of students, was recognized by The Webb School Parents’ Association with the WSPA Faculty Enrichment Award. The award is presented annually to an outstanding member of the teaching faculty who has taught at Webb for at least three years. Students and families cast votes to select the recipient. Rose completed her fourth year at Webb.
“Grateful and humbled to receive the WSPA Faculty Enrichment Award, I extend my heartfelt thanks to the students whose boundless curiosity and enthusiasm make teaching an incredibly rewarding experience. To the parents, your confidence in entrusting me with your children’s education is truly invaluable; I express my deepest gratitude,” Rose said. “A special acknowledgment goes to my colleagues, whose unwavering professionalism and dedication have consistently inspired me …. This award, far more than a personal achievement, is a celebration of the collective efforts that contribute to our community at The Webb School.”
Grandparents special guests
More than 175 grandparents of Webb students were guests on campus March 22 for the annual Grandparents’ Day event that preceded spring break. The event began with a gathering in the Bond Library as guests registered and enjoyed refreshments. Individual photos were taken of the guests and their grandchildren. Grandparents attended two classes with their students and a special program in Follin Chapel that included a video and selections from “Little Shop of Horrors” slated to be performed by The Webb Company Players in April.
“This is such a special day for all of us because of you,” said Head of School Ken Cheeseman, welcoming the guests. “You are so special in the lives of our students, your grandchildren. Talking to several of you during the last few weeks and watching your entire countenance change as you spoke about your grandchildren, makes it so clear to me how much joy they bring you and how proud you are of them.
“Your grandchildren can find solid ground, moorings, and strength in you. You are the guardians of traditions, the bearers of family legacies, and the embodiment of enduring love and wisdom.” Cheeseman cited Webb’s mission, “to turn out young people who are tireless workers and know how to work effectively; who are accurate scholars; who know the finer points of morals and practice them in their daily living; who are always courteous.” He added, “If you have not thought about that in a while, I remind you of the critically important role you play. We appreciate how you support us in helping your grandchildren live out these important words and concepts.” He closed saying, “I hope you have enjoyed your time with your grandchildren today, and you were encouraged and perhaps inspired as you visited classes and met their extraordinary teachers….”
WSPA continues tradition of hosting Snack Depot during finals
Students, faculty and staff enjoyed the annual Snack Depot in the Elkins Student Center, hosted by Webb School Parents’ Association during final exams. Parents and others provided homemade and packaged treats and beverages to serve at the event each day.
Eclipse Watching
Students, faculty and staff turned out and enjoyed the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse that had 92% totality in Bell Buckle.
WSPA hosts Belles and Buckles Gala
The Webb School community gathered for the 2024 Belles and Buckles Gala, hosted at The Grove at Williamson Family Farm in Murfreesboro, Tenn., by The Webb School Parents’ Association. This event is the WSPA’s main fundraiser and was attended by members of the board of trustees, alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends. The gala was preceded by cocktails and appetizers at a VIP reception for sponsors, and trustees. The premier sponsor of the event was Jaguar Land Rover Bluff City, of Memphis, courtesy of Farrar Vaughan, Webb Class of 1995, and Rob Vaughan. Gala event chairs were Caroline Hulan Smith, current parent and a 1998 graduate of The Webb School, and Dr. Brian Smith with committee members, Ginger Bobo Shofner, Gina Reeves, Carrie Brooke Simmons, Leigh Adams, Alyce Allen, Michelle Ring, Kacy Riley, Carrie Bawcum and Kathy Elfersy.
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Student Champions
ABBY FAITH CHEESEMAN
2024 Girls 5,000 Meter New Balance National Indoor National Champion
2023-2024 Gatorade Tennessee Girls Cross Country Player of the Year
Third Consecutive Year
Middle Tennessee High School Sports Awards Girls Cross Country Runner of the Year
COLLEGE COMMITMENTS
Ethan Crunk: Football at Wheaton College
Christopher Douglas: Soccer at Trevecca Nazarene University
Brooks Watson: Volleyball at Spalding University
Gage Lemaster: Football at University of the South
Cecil Rodgers: Soccer at Hendrix College
Sara Knight: Soccer at Berea College
Nathan Brisebois: Football at the University of Ottawa
Ema Nagyova: Basketball at Tusculum University
Winter/Spring
Basketball
Varsity Girls Basketball
DII-AA Region Champions
Finished Final Four in TSSAA DII-AA State Tournament
Region All-Tournament Team
Makynli Bacon, Kora Johnson and Dasha Biriuk
State All-Tournament Team
Middle School Girls Basketball
2024 TIAA Champion
Varsity Boys Basketball
2024 DII-A Middle Region Runner-Up
Finished in Elite 8 in the TSSAA DII-A State Tournament
DII-A District 3
Regular Season
All-District Team: Eli Brown, Taveon Comage and Jax Howard
Dasha Biriuk
DII-AA Region MVP and All Region; 2024 Miss Basketball Finalist
Kora Johnson
Spring Track
Varsity Track
TSSAA DII-A Track and Field
Girls
DII-A District 3 AllTournament Team
Joel Wyatt
DII-A Middle Region AllTournament Team
Taveon Comage and Joel Wyatt
Taveon Comage Reaches 1,000 career points
State Team 4th Place
State Champions
4x800m Relay - Macy Simon, Henley Pritchard, Sydney
4x200m Relay - Ray Zhang, Joel Wyatt, Gunnar Thayer, Taveon Comage (3rd)
High Jump - Joel Wyatt (3rd)
High Jump - Taveon Comage (4)
Triple Jump - Demitri Mills (4th)
4x800m Relay - Harry Thomas, Jax Howard, Cooper Medling, Chinom Chiemeka (4th)
200m Run - Joel Wyatt (5th)
110m Hurdles - Demitri Mills (5th)
Middle School Track
Middle School Girls win TIAA Championship
The Webb Middle School Girls earned 1.5 points more than Nashville Christian to win the 2024 TIAA Championship held at Lagler Field on the Webb’s campus.
Webb Girls win Fast Break Invitational
The Webb Middle School Girls braved a cold night to score 89 points and win the Fast Break Invitational at Chattanooga Christian School.
Soccer
Varsity Boys Soccer
Advanced to the first round of State XII
Middle School Boys Soccer
Finished runner-up in the District Tournament
Tennis Varsity Girls Tennis
Aysha Hosam and Sydney Kentish qualified for Regional Individual Tournament
DII-A All-District 3 Team: Carson Sutton, Zander Smith, Eli Simons, Rhett Petroka and Lawson Simons
Clay Target
Sydney Kentish qualified for the DII-A State Tournament
Clay Target team competes in Region 2 SCTP tournament
The Clay Target team began its summer competition season with a trophy in Nashville as part of the Region 2 SCTP (Scholastic Clay Target Program) tournament. The events held from May 30-June 1 included American Skeet, Sporting Clays, and American Trap. The team shot 1,800 targets during three days among six athletes.
“I am really proud of how our team competed, and would like to thank all of our athletes, families, and coaches,” remarked Matt Wilson, head coach. “This is a sport that takes a lot of practice and dedication, and it has been fun to see how much they have progressed.”
Three athletes in the same division competed for a squad award. Caiden Pyrdum (92/100), Paxton McCallon (89/100) and Aidan Walker (65/100) received a trophy for their combined score of 246/300 in the Intermediate-Advanced category for American Skeet. Pyrdum also received an award for his individual performance, finishing third in his division and best among Webb shooters. Caleb Powers and Austin Smith, 2024 Webb graduates, competed in the varsity division. Ollie Greene competed in the Junior Varsity division.
“I have watched the Webb team over the years, and they are true student-athletes. I wish the team’s graduating seniors well as they go off to college”, said Jena Jones, athletics director.
Region 2 trophy, left to right, Paxton McCallon, Caiden Pyrdum and Aidan Walker
Clay Target Team and coaches, left to right, Coach Chuck Lawson, Ollie Greene, Aidan Walker, Austin Smith, Paxton McCallon, Caiden Pyrdum, Caleb Powers and Coach Wilson (Coaches Tyler Lance and Rich Sebastian not pictured).
Baseball
Varsity Boys Baseball
DII-A All-District Team:
Owen Fogle and Gunnar Boles
Golf Middle School Golf
Finished 2nd Boys’ golf team advanced to the sectional tournament
Student-athletes honored at spring banquet
Spring sport athletes and their families gathered to celebrate the many accomplishments of the season in May. Anastasia Coonan and Cecil Rodgers were selected for the James Cordero StudentAthlete Teammate Award. The award was established in 2016 in
Varsity Baseball
DII-A Middle Region All-District - Owen Fogle
DII-A Middle Region All-District - Gunnar Boles
Coaches Award - Ryan Edwards
Coaches Award - Mack Hopper
Varsity Girls Lacrosse
Scholar-Athlete - Mai Phan
MVP - Cy Nash
Grit Award - Sara Knight
Most Improved Player - Ellabess Paladino
Varsity Boys Soccer
Freshman of the Year - Jobson Lemmons
Golden Boot - Chris Douglas
MVP - Cecil Rodgers
Most Improved - Nico Byles
Varsity Softball
MVP - Bella Griffy
Leadership Award - Jaycie Bateman
Rookie of the Year - Anna Kate Gregory
Golden Glove Award - Ella Allen
Varsity Boys & Girls Tennis
Coach’s Award - Dylan Carey
Team Leader Award - Mary-Margaret Mayfield
Best Teammate Award - Ian Rolle
MVP - Sydney Kentish
MVP - Aysha Hosam
Varsity Boys & Girls Track
memory of Coach Cordero, who served as Middle School boys soccer head coach, football assistant coach, and was part of the football coaching staff that won the Middle Tennessee Athletic Conference State Championship in 2013.
2024 SPRING SPORTS BANQUET AWARDS
Most Outstanding Sprinter and Relay Athlete - Christie Thomas
Most Outstanding Spirit and Leadership Award - Macy Simon
Most Outstanding Versatility and Hurdler - Demitri Mills
Most Outstanding Throws Athlete - Wyatt Petroka
Most Outstanding Distance and Mid distance Athlete - Harry Thomas
Outstanding Sprinter and Relay athlete - Gunnar Thayer and Ray Zhang
Most Outstanding High Jump, Long Jump and Sprinter - Joel Wyatt
Middle School Baseball
Offensive Player of the Year - Kegan Johnson
Defensive Player of the Year - Christian Baker
Pitcher of the Year - Landon Warren
MVP - Nate Simmons
Middle School Golf
Sportsmanship Award- Ava Simons
Most Outstanding Player - Landon Ennis
Most Improved Player - Hank Lampley
Hardest Worker - Isaac Brown
Middle School Boys Soccer
New Player of the Year - Zander Smith
The Golden Boot - Eli Simons
MVP - Carson Sutton
Most Improved - Javier Olvera
Middle School Tennis
Most Improved Player - Emery Potts and Magnolia Harding
Sportsmanship - Parker McCallon
Backboard Award - Juan Daniel Arellano
Outstanding Versatility and Outstanding Hurdler - Anastasia Coonan & Sydney
Davenport
Most Outstanding Thrower - Daria Biruik
Most Outstanding Distance and Mid Distance and Leadership Award - Abby Faith Cheeseman
Most Outstanding Long/ Triple Jumper and Relay Athlete - Annika Spross
Middle School Boys & Girls Track
Team Captain - Mary Myers
Most Outstanding Sprinter - Dara Frazier
Most Outstanding Distance Athlete - Hailey Gay and Addie Gay
Most Outstanding Jumper - Zuri Cox and Mariia Teskova
Most Versatile Athlete - Ellie Holland and Tula Sublette
Webb Feet in Focus
Beginning in 2022, the Alumni and Development Office has created and shared a series of alumni profiles for Instagram entitled “Webb Feet in Focus.” Alumni from all over the world have been featured in this series, which asks alumni three questions. Where did life take you after Webb? What are you
doing these days? How did Webb prepare you for the future? The biweekly posts continue to be very popular on Instagram among fellow alumni, parents, current students, faculty and staff.
Where did life take you after Webb?
It’s been a while since leaving Webb, so I’ve been lots of places since then! Washington University for college, traveling the U.S. training others on HUD software, 10 years co-owning/managing Williams Booksellers, various work in the property title insurance industry (escrow processor, escrow account manager, etc.) Masters in Pastoral Theology from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis followed soon after by a year of seminary work at Sewanee’s School of Theology. My favorite? Working for a few years in chaplaincy in the Acension Saint Thomas Hospital system in Murfreesboro/ Nashville, leaving in 2020 so I could spend time with my mother, COVID free.
How did Webb prepare you for the future?
Being an entreprenuer is not for the faint of heart. It takes passion, grit, tenacity, and the ability to find creative solutions. Webb taught me how to work tirelessly and effectively, and how to stay true to my moral compass, even in a cutthroat business industry.
What are you doing these days?
After attending the University of Tennessee for 1 year, I entered the 2021 NBA draft. I was selected as the 21st pick in the first round by the New York Knicks. I was immediately traded to Los Angeles Clippers. The Clippers then traded me to the Portland Trailblazers who later traded me to the Phoenix Suns. The Phoenix Suns traded me to the Brooklyn Nets where I am currently living and playing my 3rd year in the NBA.
Walch ’06
Libby Willis ’80
2024 Alumni and Service Awards
Congratulations to Gilbert Gordon ’76, inductee into the Distinguished Alumni Society and Mike Quinn, recipient of the John B. Hardin Service Award. They will be recognized during the 2024 Alumni Reunion on Oct. 25-26.
To learn more about the 2024 honorees, read the introductions – in their own words….
GILBERT GORDON ’76
My life started on Rock Springs Road where I was born in a one-room log cabin. Well, actually it was an ugly, brick, ranch style, but I always imagined it as log - makes for a better story. My mother named our farm, Gordon’s Villa, trying to create an image of Tuscany, but the smell of manure and the occasional dead cow pressed it hard. My grandfather acquired it during the Depression after its previous owner killed four people there and went to prison.
I grew up, and at 13 was sent to a small school in Bell Buckle. There I met two old dead men (Sawney and John), and immediately felt a responsibility that resembled the same one that my father instilled in me - “Do something!” But more than that - I met Mrs. Crowe (8th grade English), Mr. Charles Alexander (Algebra), Mr. John Lewis Morgan (Geometry), Mr. Rusty Norvell (Writing), Mrs. Truitt (Calculus), and, of course, my mentor and father-figure Coach Roy Johnson. They and others were Webb School, and I carry them with me every day.
I married Ginny Farris whose character paralleled her beauty. I still marvel that she agreed to this arrangement, and even more so that she agrees to it still. Anyway, we moved to upstate New York and managed a dairy farm for three years before returning home to live in the Old Home Place, which is a mile or so from my birth. It was built by my third great-grandfather, and I am the 6th generation there. The cemetery is right behind our home which makes my death, at least, convenient. We operated the family dairy for three years until I had the idea of starting a school on our farm. I think this was the only time Ginny questioned her previous decision.
So, Cedar Hall School was founded in 1991, and we have enjoyed thirty three years of training and teaching children, especially our own three: Dr. Hannah Gordon (Seattle), Graham (Ashley) Gordon (Nashville), and Carter Gordon (Chicago). The only reason I was employed for 33 years is because I am in charge of hiring and firing, and I just couldn’t find the courage to fire myself - we needed the income. However, Ginny and I have recently decided to close the school in May 2025. The students don’t get my jokes anymore - actually their parents don’t either, so it’s time.
MIKE QUINN, FORMER WEBB FACULTY MEMBER
The same year that Mrs. Dorothy Elkins began her illustrious career at Webb, I was squirming my way into being born in a Birmingham hospital. I spent my younger years in Northern Alabama where I gained exposure to the civil rights movement through the sermons of preachers who celebrated a Holy cross on Sundays and a burning one on others. My conundrum with this paradox turned out to be a continuing influence on my perspectives.
After making it through high school in Smyrna, Tenn., I spent more years than necessary studying art, biology, geology and whatnot at a state university down the road. Then the good stuff started happening.
Priscilla and I got married and had a couple of wild boys. Pris had the “good” job as a special education elementary teacher, and I watched the kids and held jobs with titles such as sewer man, stagehand, ceramic dinosaur maker, and frolicking-puppetmaking-singing-professor-sidekick for a local PBS kiddie music show. Then we all moved to a Pacific island for 6 years, not long enough. I worked for their legislature, and we got to travel a bit. When we returned stateside our organically educated kids needed a creative, nurturing, challenging and liberally educating environment. At that time this meant The Webb School.
During their first years at Webb, I helped the Children’s Discovery House, taught as an adjunct at MTSU, and attended craft fairs with the Dinosaur Dirt farm. Then came my lucky break when I weaseled my way into employment at Webb!
My time at Webb was generously summed up by Rita Mitchell when I retired in 2022:
“...He began serving Webb as a science tutor and summer school science teacher. He and wife Priscilla Van Tries had already chosen Webb for their sons, Ian ’02 and Parker ’04. He joined Webb full-time in 1999 as an honors biology and chemistry teacher and later taught freshwater ecology, anatomy and physiology and human biology before becoming a full-time upper school art instructor…
(continued
Hawkins brings institutional knowledge, extensive experience as Webb Alumni and Development Director
The Webb School has announced the appointment of Jonathon Hawkins as Director of Alumni and Development. The announcement was made in a message from Head of School Ken Cheeseman to the Webb Community. His appointment was effective July 1.
“Jonathon’s experience in alumni and development, both at Webb and at the collegiate level, will benefit our Webb community as we look to continue to grow our annual fund and consider an ambitious capital campaign in the near future,” said Cheeseman. “Beyond his experience, Jonathon’s warmth, kindness, and ability to communicate effectively will also enhance the culture of philanthropy at Webb.”
excited now more than ever about Webb’s position within the educational landscape and how fundraising and alumni engagement can make a transformational impact on the school’s future.
“As so many have said before, there is a lot to love about Webb including its beautiful campus and pastoral location, unique history as one of the south’s leading boarding schools, commitment to honor and personal integrity, and, most importantly, strong focus on outstanding academics. Through our continued investment in academics while also strategically improving athletics and arts programs as well as the physical plant, Webb is well-positioned to become the boarding/day school of choice within the region.”
Since 2017, Hawkins, a Murfreesboro resident, has served as Webb’s Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving and most recently as Associate Director for Alumni and Development. Prior to his service at Webb, he was Executive Director of Alumni and Development for Cumberland University from 2006-2017.
He is a two-time graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, where he was awarded a Bachelor of Science with a major in mass communication and a Master of Education in administration and supervision with a concentration in higher education.
“It is an honor to be named as The Webb School’s Director of Alumni and Development, and I am thankful to Ken Cheeseman and the Board for their confidence and trust in me. I am eager to lead the Alumni and Development Office and its hardworking team to even greater success in support of the school’s mission,” Hawkins said. “As a current team member, loyal donor, and father of a Webb graduate, I am
While at Webb, Hawkins has been the lead for the annual giving campaign exceeding the Webb Fund goal in each of the last seven years, increasing Webb Fund totals by 32% in the last four years, and accomplishing record Webb Fund numbers in Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024. He works collaboratively with the Alumni and Development team, key leadership, and volunteers to achieve fundraising goals established by the Board of Trustees and Head of School. In addition, he serves as primary liaison for the Alumni Board and its subcommittees, Class Agent program, and is responsible for annual reunion events and activities. Hawkins was involved in the $4 million Webb 150 endowment campaign and served as chair of the highly successful 150th anniversary celebration.
Hawkins resides in Murfreesboro with his wife, Jana, kindergarten teacher at Homer Pittard Campus School, and his daughter, Claire ’21, a senior at Western Kentucky University. c
We want to hear from you
Do you have an updated address or special news to share with your classmates? Whether it is about your career, travel experiences, birth or wedding announcements, or a move, we want to hear from you.
Please share your information for inclusion in the Webb Magazine at:
Texas
Webb’s Alumni and Development team recently traveled to Austin, Texas, for the annual CASE-NAIS Independent Schools Conference. While in Austin, the team had dinner with Lauren Alexander-Labahn ’99, Rob Gardner ’72 and Shannon Gardner at Oakmont Food Company. From left, are Lauren Alexander-Labahn ’99, Jonathon Hawkins, Alyce Allen, Kristen Linton Alsup ’00, Leigh Adams, Rob Gardner ’72, Shannon Gardner and Justice Wenzlick.
Kristen Linton Alsup ’00 traveled across the state of Texas in February and had wonderful visits with her former students Briannna Wofford Smithley ’11 and Philip James ’14 , as well as with her friend and former Latin classmate, Isha Dhingra
Mannering ’99 (not pictured). She also trekked to Amarillo to meet with Eddie Bradley ’61 at his office. Phillip is pictured with his partner Austin Hawkins, and Rob is pictured with his wife Brianna.
California
Members of the Alumni and Development team recently spent almost a week on the west coast visiting with alumni in the Northern California area. Leigh Adams, former Director of Alumni and Development, and Kristen Linton Alsup ’00, Associate Director of Alumni and Development, traveled to various cities
to spend time with several alumni. The trip included two group dinners where Webb stories and memories of Bell Buckle were shared, and Adams and Alsup were able to provide updates on life at Webb today.
Trustee Tom Cooper ’65, Nahlah, Aru Hill ’99, Trustee Sandi Jobe Puett ’95, Leigh Adams, Kristen Linton Alsup ’00
Henry Siegel ’69, Emma Squire, Jim Noe ’77, Kristen Linton Alsup ’00, Trustee Sandi Jobe Puett ’95, Leigh Adams, Evan Harrar ’61, Alumni Board
Member Garrett King ’10
Leigh Adams met for breakfast with Trustee Sandi Jobe Puett ’95 while visiting the Bay Area
Alabama
Leigh Adams, former Director of Alumni and Development, traveled to various cities in Alabama to meet with alumni, parents, and visit with peers. She was also joined by Ken Cheeseman,
Head of School, and Kristen Linton Alsup ’00, Associate Director of Alumni and Development.
Memphis/North Mississippi
Kristen Linton Alsup ’00 joined Blake Cocanougher ’12 , Baylor Bishop ’12 , Sarada Tilton ’12 , Alumni Board Vice President Kaleb Tilton ’12 , Cleo Tilton, Alumni Board Secretary Caroline Smith Pryor ’11 , Ryan Pryor ’12 and Jhansi Kolli ’17 in Memphis, Tenn. She
also visited with George Johnson ’74 in Memphis. Alsup had the opportunity to attend a Rotary Club meeting in Sumner, Miss., with Smith Murphey ’55, who has never missed a meeting in 54 years. She briefly spoke about Webb as part of the program that day.
Utah
Dawn Shepherd Taylor ’78, Molly Taylor ’12, Leigh Adams
Leigh Adams, Natalie Isom Sansom ’88
Kristen Linton Alsup ’00 visited with a number of alumni in several cities as part of her winter travels including Heather
Whitlock Williams ’12 in Park City, Utah, and in Salt Lake City, Utah, Henry Whiteside ’60 and Michael Jennings ’67
Chicago
Jonathon Hawkins, Director of Alumni and Development, recently visited several alumni in Chicago, Ill. While in the Windy City, Hawkins met with alums from four decades including Temaz
Ferguson ’16, Wes LeBlanc ’00, Barbara Grobicki ’86, Bill Heineke ’72 , and Steve Pike ’72
Middle Tennessee
During the winter months, several alums spent time together including Kristen Linton Alsup ’00 with Courtney Hall Allen ’99 in Tullahoma, Kate Mowery ’11 in Smyrna, and Alumni Board Member Scout Turner ’12 and Hannah Cartwright ’12 in Nashville; Ryan Pryor ’12 , Rion Steele ’10, Anna Claire
Farmer ’12 , Alumni Board Secretary Caroline Smith Pryor ’11 and Andrew Steele ’04 , in Bell Buckle; and Alsup and husband Luke Alsup ’98 with Nathaniel Robinson ’00 and his fiancé Lisa Searing in Murfreesboro.
Read more at www.thewebbschool.com/alumni/alumni-news
Bill Heineke ’72, Steve Pike ’72, Jonathon Hawkins
Florida/Georgia
Jonathon Hawkins, Director of Alumni and Development, recently traveled to southern Georgia and north Florida to share the good news of Webb with alumni and friends. Hawkins along with Webb alumna and Trustee Gwen Owen ’75 met with Davis Scott ’64 in Saint Simon’s Island. Owen hosted the group at the Frederica Golf Club. Later in the day, Hawkins visited with Dr. Page Faulk ’55 at The Cloisters on Sea Island. After a quick drive to Jacksonville, Hawkins continued his visits meeting with Lauren Parkes ’99 of St. Augustine and Chairman Emeritus Vance Berry ’72 at his law office in the San Marco neighborhood (not pictured). The trip continued in Tallahassee where he visited with Nicole Woodward ’06 as well as Distinguished Alumnus, former trustee, and scholarship donor
In addition, a special gathering was held in Quincy with the family of the Munroe brothers, who attended Webb in the 1930s and 1940s. In attendance were Judy Woodward Gregory, Pat and Mary Kate Woodward, and George Woodward (not pictured). Judy and Pat’s mother Julia Munroe Woodward established a scholarship in her brothers’ memory in 2002. After breakfast, the group took a brief tour of the Pat Munroe House, designated a Florida Heritage Site by the state, which is currently owned by the city of Quincy. Mr. Munroe was a prominent businessman and sent five sons to Webb.
Eddie Rehfeldt ’83 and Kristen Linton Alsup ’00
Meena Mukhergee ’01 and Kristen Linton Alsup ’00
Andrew Steele ’04, Kristen Linton Alsup ’00, Emmett Miller ’09
Kristen Linton Alsup ’00 and Akira Wada ’95
Walter Manley ’64
Kristen Linton Alsup ’00 spent several days visiting Webb alumni in Seattle this spring and visited with a number of alums.
Class Notes
Life and career updates to keep you connected with your classmates
1960s
Biletnikoff Award Founder and Chairman
Walter Manley II ’64 presents the most beautiful trophy in college sports to 2023 Biletnikoff Award winner & unanimous first-team All-America receiver Marvin Harrison, Jr., of Ohio State, as keynoter and 1996 Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel looks on, at the 30th Annual Biletnikoff Award Banquet. The black tie celebration with 600 patrons was held on March 9 at the Dunlap Champions Club at Tallahassee’s Doak Campbell Stadium. The Foundation, the only all-volunteer college football award, has provided over five million dollars in college scholarships to 310 North Florida high school seniors who have overcome significant challenges to achieve at the highest academic and extracurricular levels since its founding by Walter in 1994.
Walter Vantrees “Van” Northcross ’64 , Cape Cod, Mass., recently published his first novel, a work of fiction, Never Fault a Creature. He writes, “I have lived and worked on Cape Cod since 1970. I had a 23-year career in marketing and public relations in retail and community development before taking on similar challenges at Cape Cod Hospital for 22 more years, working in community and physician relations.”
J. Barry Gurdin ’65, Ph.D. is the author of an op-ed “The Opioid crisis: Is the Canadian model of safe injection sites working?” published in the most widely circulated Englishlanguage weekly in Quebec, Canada.
(Scan to read full story)
1980s
Rita “R.J.” Gregg-Brady ’81 writes: “In June 2023, I joined the ranks of education. I am a preschool co-teacher for a Head Start in Las Vegas.”
Doyle Jackson ’83 of South Solon, Ohio, has started a daily Bible podcast. Read more at www.doylejackson.com.
1990s
Priscilla Grim ’92 , Brooklyn, N.Y., writes “My article from Scalawag is reprinted in a book published by Haymarket in September. Along with many other amazing writers, Angela Davis has a piece in the book!”
(Scan to read full article)
Caroline Hulan Smith ’98 , Christiana, Tenn., was welcomed by the Alumni Board to serve a three-year term. Smith, a registered nurse, is the parent of two current Webb students - Jack ’27 and Daisye ’29. She previously served as the Webb School Parents’ Association (WSPA) treasurer and in January 2024 served, along with husband Brian, as Chair of the 26th Belles and Buckles Gala.
2000s
Rachel Jennings ’03, Carrollton, Ga., recently accepted a new position at the University of West Georgia as the Assistant Athletic Director of Academic Excellence. “I look forward to helping the Wolves as they transition from D2 to D1. This also means for the first time in almost 20 years, I am back in the south and significantly closer to my Tennessee family. I’m grateful for my time in West Texas at UTPB, where I met so many awesome people, but I’m looking forward to this new adventure!”
Michael Humprhey ’06, Riverview, Fla., and wife Sara are the proud parents of Victoria Rose born in 2021 and Ethan Regal born Nov. 24, 2023.
2010s
Chris Hoover ’10, Riverdale, Md., writes that he and his wife Heather Amato welcomed a son Luca on Jan. 3. They are moving to the DC area, where Chris will start a fellowship in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
Blake Cocanaugher ’12 and his wife Courtney traveled to South Korea in the fall and spent time with Woo Chan Jeong ’12 and Youjae Kang ’12
Jami Averwater ’13, Murfreesboro, Tenn., and Alan Brown were married on April 7, 2024, at the Harpeth Hotel in Franklin. Several Webb alumni and friends were in attendance to celebrate the happy couple for the reception at Sycamore Farms in Arrington. Pictured, left to right, Jonathon Hawkins, Jana Hawkins, George Huddleston ’76, Brent Dotson ’13, Kathleen Camp, Dylan Ritter, Scout Turner ’12 , Luke Alsup ’98 , Julie Harris ’95, Kristen Linton Alsup ’00, Colleen Enea ’12 , Eliza Claire Neese ’14 , and Chris Enea.
Jingzhe (Bill) Cao ’14 , Brownsburg, Ind. writes: “Began working at pharma Eli Lilly as a process chemistry advisor after obtaining my Ph.D. from Princeton University.”
2020s
Sydney Cohen ’20 graduated from The University of Mississippi Patterson School of Accounting, Magna Cum Laude, with her bachelor’s degree. She began her master’s degree in June also at the Patterson School of accounting, which is ranked number one in the SEC and eight in the country. She also was awarded the John David Whaley Memorial Scholarship and is a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society.
Emma Roy ’21 , a student at University of Tennessee Chattanooga recently won the Boren Award at UTC and will spend a full academic year in Taiwan. Go to: www.thewebbschool.com/alumni/alumninews to read the UTC story “Global citizen: UTC’s Emma Roy awarded Boren Scholarship” – April 28, 2024, post – and also a Feb. 14, 2024, post - “Culture shock: ’Perfecting those little moments is the best feeling ever’” -- about her previous study in China and England.
Emma Roy is with her host mom, Ching-wen Chen. Roy spent the summer of 2023 in an immersive language program at National Cheng Kung University in Tainan, Taiwan, speaking only Chinese.
(Photo courtesy of Emma Roy)
As part of their study abroad experience in England, UTC students Addison Whittemore, left, and Emma Roy visited the Tower Bridge in London.
(Photo courtesy of Emma Roy).
(UTC photo / Angela Foster)
Trey Snell ’21 , Murfreesboro, Tenn., and student at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Fla., writes: “Throughout the month of April, I received four different awards. The first was the Spirit of the Cornerstone Award, which reminded me of Webb in so many ways. That award was for someone “who exemplifies integrity, excellence of character, respect, and contributions to community.” The second award I received at the same time I was inducted into the psychology honors society was the “Departmental Service Award” for excellent leadership of students beyond the classroom. On the final day I was on my school’s campus this past semester, I was invited to my school’s award ceremony. While I was there, I was honored with the “Student Worker of the Year Award” for my five different campus jobs. I was then given a second award at the same ceremony. The second one was the “Campus Event of the Year”. That award is honestly the one of which I am most proud. That was for the Dungeons and Dragons Club that I started and am the president of at my college. We held our first “Mock Renaissance Festival” -- a festival with live shows, different clubs and artist vendors, and even a sword fight where I was one of the main duelers.”
Alumni panel fields education, career questions from juniors at Summit
Caroline Whitaker ’22 , a student at University of Tennessee Knoxville, won the 2nd Place Undergraduate Research Poster Award in the Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering. Check out Caroline’s LinkedIn page for more details.
Webb’s College Counseling Office, in partnership with the Alumni & Development Office, hosted Webb Footprints: Career and College Exploration Summit on April 12. This event, offered to Webb juniors, welcomed alumni back to campus to speak about their professional and educational journeys. This year’s Summit featured Katherine Foutch Layman ’03 - Attorney, Hunter Foutch ’10 - Optometrist, Scout Turner ’12 - Entrepreneur/Business Owner, Manjari Singh ’08 - Healthcare Administrator, and Cameron Togrye ’12 - Orthodontist, on a panel moderated by Webb alumna and staff member Kristen Linton Alsup ’00
After the panel discussion, several students networked with the panelists and asked additional questions about their Webb and college experiences. Prior to the Summit, the Alumni & Development team hosted a lunch with the panelists as well as Head of School Ken Cheeseman, Director of Learning Services Mallory Garcia, and Director of Study Center and Test Prep James Garcia.
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member of the senior class.
Winston Dugdale was chosen by his fellow classmates to deliver this year’s student graduation speech. “Winston excels by drawing on his unique gifts that are at once passé and revolutionary, straightforward and convoluted, witty and wise,” Cheeseman said. “There is always a bit of ‘Winston’ in everything he does ... at his core, he is a young man of true character that everyone should love and admire.”
Reminiscing on the preciousness of childhood and its evanescence, Dugdale questioned, “What will be left of these days other than an old yearbook on a forgotten shelf when I’m a stranger in an alien time and an alien world?”
“I answer you this: the impressions on the heart. That is what remains. Every season of life leaves its indelible mark on our lives, like the sediment on rock. Like the rolling, Tennessee hills, the daffodils, the magnolias, and the little town of Bell Buckle that time forgot, that are painted on my soul.”
“My grandfather has preached to me from an early age the same enduring understanding: to add value to the lives of all we meet. If Webb was built on any principle, if Webb strove for any goal, if Webb inscribed any message on my heart, it would be that very same principle.”
Dugdale concluded by addressing his fellow classmates, “You are the ones that make this speech so hard. For this may be the last time I look you in the eyes, the men and women I grew up
Scan QR code for ceremony videos, photos and to read more.
Bateman (continued from page 11)
Alla Webb Scholar and a member of the Cum Laude Society and National Honor Society. She was president her senior year of the Chamber of Commerce-sponsored Leadership Bedford and provided peer tutoring through Webb’s Study Center and Learning Center. She played softball for five years, was captain four and named to the All-Conference Team as a sophomore.
At the close of her senior year, she received the Anna Landis Hightower Award for maintaining the highest academic average in her four years at Webb. She also received the John Hardin Highest Scholarship Award as the graduate who achieved the highest scholastic average in their senior year. She was one of two graduates who received the John Lewis Morgan Award, the highest award presented to a member(s) of the senior class. At the Upper School Awards ceremony, she received book awards for AP English IV, AP Calculus AB, AP Macroeconomics, Ceramics II, and AP Government. She was also among seniors recognized for the most community service hours.
with, the ones I love dearly. Webb will never be the same. You will never be the same. But my heart will always know you and the time we shared. I do not believe that you will go out and change the world. I know it.”
Board of Trustees Chair Farrar Vaughan ’95 presented the graduation Bibles, other Holy Books, and the Webb graduation certificates to the Class of 2024.
Cheeseman closed saying, “To the class of 2024, you will leave Webb, your second home, to embrace new endeavors. Senior survival solidified many of your relationships and pushed you to a newfound resilience and grit many of you didn’t know you had. There are some members of your class whom you may never see again … and there are some who will be closer than a brother or sister for the rest of your lives. We hope that each you will return often to Webb and share your celebrations with us and support the work we do for the next generation of Webbies. Webb will always be
Bateman appreciates Webb for helping her build a work ethic and time management skills. “You can push yourself to take as many difficult classes as you want, and with this, you learn personal responsibility when you have to balance your work yourself.”
She’s grateful for the level of academics available to her, but also the sense of honor that is intrinsic in Webb academics. “Webb furthered my idea of what it means to be honorable even in difficult situations. And I understand that when you go into the real world you know that not everyone is as honorable as in our little Webb bubble, but I know that I can be and hold myself to the Webb standard.”
The new Webb alum is taking a sense of “community” with her. “The Webb community and students continuously work together. We’re all here to help each other. No matter where I go, I know that I want to search for a community similar to this one I’ve grown up in. And if I’m lucky enough one day to have my own practice, I know my goal will be to recreate this sense of community that Webb has instilled in me.” c
Qi
(continued from page 13)
Marjorie Iley Manley Award presented to the student who best combines an appreciation of music and foreign language. He was a member of the National Honor Society and served as an admissions ambassador giving campus tours for three years. Qi found time to serve as a piano tutor for several Bell Buckle youths during his junior and senior years.
The term “break” had a different meaning for Qi when he was selected in the summer between his sophomore and junior years for three successive educational opportunities that spanned the entire summer. He began with two online summer programs and finished with an in-person session, all which focused on his educational interests and passions. The opportunities included Yale University’s Young Global Scholars Program, Concord Summer Review Program and a merit scholarship to Interlochen Center for the Arts Young Artist Program.
Qi has appreciated Janet Linton as an exceptional piano teacher and advisor. Her teaching and caring … contributed to my personal growth and enriched my experience tremendously.”
Buck Smith, his 10th grade English teacher, “had a profound impact on my life even though I had only been his student for one year.” And he lauds Pamela Seals, science department chair and his teacher, for two courses, including AP Environmental Science, for her “phenomenal teaching style and personal support.”
“Webb provides very intense courses, and many Webb teachers teach very good pre-college and college-type courses. It was a good preview to college life,” he said.
Medling
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years; track four; lacrosse four and soccer one. In academics, he is an Alla Webb Scholar, is a member of National Honor Society, Cum Laude Society, and has received a number of Book Awards through the years – including AP Physics and AP Calculus BC. He graduated summa cum laude, and at the graduation ceremony, he received the Senior Achievement Scholar-Athlete Award and the Henry Harrell Mathematics Memorial Award.
Highlights from his Webb career, he said, are tied to his friendships, and he’ll recall his time at Webb -- the camaraderie, WILD Trips, traveling to athletics events, and enjoying everyday activities that might seem like “pretty small stuff”, but were important to him.
As he heads to West Point, he’ll complete four years of academics with no tuition and will receive a salary and other benefits. He’ll graduate with a four-year degree, followed by five years of active military service in a field and location of his choice, if his grades meet certain standards. He’ll then have three years of inactive service. “Whenever you go to West Point, military service is part of the package. It’s part of the journey. I didn’t have to go to West Point; I chose it.” c
Qi knows he has also matured while in school. “I’ve become very independent, taking care of issues myself. For example, I had five AP classes as a junior. It was a great challenge to my time. I’ve done a lot of work balancing my school responsibilities and recreation time. Webb has helped with time management.”
“The accomplishment I feel most proud of at Webb is initiating the school photography program, which involves students taking pictures of all sorts of school events that are used for many purposes,” said Qi. “I truly appreciate the opportunities I’ve had … that allowed me to initiate this program with Mrs. (Rita) Mitchell (director of communications), and it is my sincere hope that Webb can continue this endeavor.” Mitchell’s guidance and advice, he said, was a “cornerstone of my development in this community.”
Qi recalls many memorable moments at Webb. “There are so many goods times at Webb. It’s hard to pick the top one. Overall, it was a very great time. I appreciate the honor to attend this school, all the teachers and my friends.
“Inspired by my father, my dream is to become an entrepreneur who leverages the knowledge, experience and values I have gained at Webb, and will gain in college, to make life better for as many people as possible – to take the initiative in matters … to see a problem and see if I can do something about it.” c
Scan QR code to read more about the class of 2024
Gordon (continued from page 31)
Webb alumni would have found themselves much at home at this small, rural school: trapping, “you can have the afternoon”, integrity, honor, character, standing for teachers and guests, poetry recitations on the front lawn at graduation. One distinguishing difference is that there is no dress code (You never know when you might dissect a dead farm animal, go wading in the creek, go on an adventure through the woods, or engage in the disciplinary action of pulling weeds which is far more effective than demerits). One unique aspect of the school is what we call St. John’s discussions where we debate ideas with dignity and respect - nothing personal, just ideas - the antithesis of our present culture. It is my favorite part.
(continued from page 31)
There were many reasons he remained at Webb for more than two decades.
“...the most meaningful experiences were the opportunities when the students and I were able to share knowledge with each other and learn from each other. Not only in the classroom but being able to share in their performances in theater, Webbstock, Springfest, Coffee houses, sporting events, clubs (Fishing, Feet to Feet, Oracle, Diversity...), chapel programs, celebrations, outdoor and international trips and marches and rallies toward the betterment of society.”...
Quinn found it difficult to note only a few highlights and enjoyable experiences in his career because there are so many. But he ranked his participation in 20+ Senior Survivals at the top of a long list. The years of “Bob Roy and the Christmas Cookie” presentation was another highlight.
“...I also cherish the opportunities I had to share journeys with the students by leading trips to China, Costa Rica, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Iceland, Ireland, Scotland, and especially Cuba.” …
I still get to help with some of Webb’s WILD trips and will continue
Now, I enjoy writing, which was awakened and fostered in me at Webb and by my mother. Two years ago I published Ramblings On Rock Springs Road which is simply a memoir about the many heroes of my life, including many teachers from Webb School. It is the least I can do for them. Actually, it is all I can do for most of them. Simply put, it is a book about the Nobodies of the world who were the Everybodies of my life. Today, I write a monthly story which I send out on Ramblings Press.
I’ve been blessed to live a very full life on the same road for 66 years … just wish I’d been born in a log cabin. c
to help with Senior Survival if my body holds out and Joe Griggs and Brian Wofford tolerate me. There are rumors that I might be able to help with a new rendition of the “Fishing Folks” in the fall.
In my post-Webb life, I enjoy family and friends, especially grandchildren. Most of my time is spent “managing a spot of land for wildlife habitat”. Occasionally I will try to make something resembling a sculpture. In 2023 I took another fairy shrimp sculpture to Burning Man with my wife Priscilla and a former student Lola Reyes (2022). Priscilla and I are returning to Burning Man in 2024 with another former student, Jonathan Crambes (2016) to create a theme camp focusing on fairy shrimp. This whole Burning Man opportunity was opened by the generosity of The Webb NETS Fund initiated by the Class of 1967. I am eternally grateful for that.
I spend time walking around in the woods, lately in bewilderment at being named as a service award recipient, while looking for things to pick up and eat. But what I really enjoy is just sitting outside and waiting for visits, especially from former students and colleagues. So please come on out to Sassapaw whenever you’re in the neighborhood and walk some trails with us! c
For previous award recipients and award criteria, visit: https:// www.thewebbschool.com/alumni/awards-and-notable-alumni
Quinn
In Memoriam
The Webb School offers sincere sympathy to the families of departed classmates and friends.
Chairman Emeritus
James “Jim” Walter McDonnell ’43, passed away peacefully on Jan. 25, 2024, in Memphis, Tenn., and now rests gently in the hollow of God’s hand. Services were Feb. 1 at Church of the Holy Communion with graveside service at Polk Cemetery in Bolivar. He served on The Webb School Board of Trustees for 30 years, was chairman from 19671988, and, in 1993, was named a member of the Distinguished Alumni Society.
Former Faculty Member
Ralph Nollenberger, Fairfield Bay, Ark., Webb math teacher from 1986 to 2008, died March 15, 2023.
1940’s
Dr. William Melville Doak ’48, a pediatrician and accomplished amateur artist, passed away on April 20, 2024, at Alive Hospice, Nashville, Tenn., after a prolonged illness.
John Turner Gray III ’49, Santa Rosa, Calif., passed away peacefully on Feb. 10, 2024, at his home in Santa Rosa.
(Published by The Salt Lake Tribune Feb. 23 to Feb. 28, 2024.)
1950’s
Norfleet Rand Johnston Sr. ’52 passed away peacefully on June 6, 2024. “Fleet” adored Ella, his recently deceased wife of 42 years. A graveside service for Fleet and Ella was held at 1:00 p.m. June 29 at Mimosa Cemetery in Lawrenceburg, Tenn.
(Published by gainesvilletimes.com on Jun. 13, 2024.)
Samuel Frances Algee ’52 , age 91, passed away on June 5, 2024, in Tiptonville, Tenn. Memorial services for Sammy Algee were held on June 21, 2024, at the Tiptonville Church of Christ.
John Cornelius “Jack” Bomar Sr. ’56, retired attorney and lawmaker, died on March 15, 2024, after an extended illness. The funeral was held at Feldhaus Memorial Chapel in Shelbyville, Tenn., on March 26. Interment followed at Willow Mount Cemetery.
1960’s
William Roberts Wilson Jr. ’60 left this life on Jan. 30, 2024, in Oxford, Miss., surrounded by his children. The funeral was Feb. 9, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. A graveside service was held Feb. 10, in Woodlawn Cemetery in Sumner, Miss.
Meredith “Duck” Caldwell III ’64, died in Nashville on Jan 5, 2024. Funeral services were Jan. 10 at First Presbyterian Church with burial at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. (Obituary published on Legacy.com by Marshall-Donnelly-Combs Funeral Home - Nashville on Jan. 7, 2024.)
Alfred E. Holland Jr. ’64, Sacramento, Calif., passed away on Dec. 2, 2023.
Charles Michael “Mickey” Moore ’64 was born in Rosemark, Tenn., in 1946, and passed peacefully at dawn on Jan. 27, 2024.
(Published by The Daily Memphian on Jan. 29, 2024.)
1970’s
Robert Lee Bibb III ’79, age 64, of Memphis, Tenn., passed away on May 2, 2024. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
1980’s
Molly Miller Alspaugh ’84, age 57, passed away March 6, 2024, at her home surrounded by her loving family in Hermitage, Tenn. A memorial service was held at Cook’s United Methodist Church in Mt. Juliet, Tenn., March 23.
2010’s
Shaina Marie McMillan, Ph.D., ’10, 31, passed away Jan. 28, 2024. Funeral Services were held Feb. 6 at Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven, Miss.
