The Blade - Senior Issue Volume 114, Issue 4 by Woodward Academy Student Publications

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The One and Only

pg. 5

Sehaj Rekhiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work with religion clubs gives Sikhism a friendly face.

The Humanitarian

pg. 8

Through service and dedication, Sari Bircoll spreads positivity in a divisive society.

The Singer

pg. 12

A young musician, Caroline Culver, starts her journey to share her message with the world.

The Rapper

pg. 16

Kamau Robinson, a budding rapper, launches his career.

Out of School Athletes

pg. 18

The quiet accomplishments of athletes like Avni Kulkarni, Julia Gianneschi, Andy Sun and Emily Hewitt, who do sports outside of school.

The Dancer Sierra Henry has been dancing since preschool, but her career has just begun.

The Yogi

pg. 20

pg. 23

Certified yoga instructor Alex Kostyshen teachers self-discovery and spiritual recovery.

The Debaters

pg. 24

Max Abramson and Tripp Haskins express their last thoughts as the ultimate senior duo of the debate team.

The Entreprenuer

pg. 28

Aaron Brown shares the perks of being a successful entrepreneur since the second grade.

Last Wills and Testaments

pg. 31

Seniors leave thoughts and belongings to the underclassmen.

Silly Superlatives

pg. 32

The results from the annual SGA survey.

Words of Wisdom Parents and loved ones leave messages for the class of 2017.

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The Blade is the student news publication of Woodward Academy. Volume 114 Issue 3 Woodward Academy 1662 Rugby Ave College Park, GA 30337

Staff Editors Aly Shakoor ‘17 – Editor in Chief Erin Edwards ‘17 – Editor in Chief Maddie Ledet ‘18 – Design Editor Nija Packer ‘18 – Culture Editor Staff Members Kyndall Dunn ‘19 Erin Harris ‘17 Kendall Heggie ‘18 Jayden Khatib ‘19 Lizzy Levine ‘18 Tanvi Reddy ‘18 Linda Shi ‘19 Staff Artist Julia Du ‘19

EDITORS’ WORD W

hen we look where we started on Wednesday, August 10 compared to where we are now, only days away from graduation, we can’t help but say, “Where did the time go?” In only a few months, our “tiny but mighty” staff has shrunk, grown, created a bimonthly newsletter called “The Butterknife,” released five news magazines and won several state and national awards for journalism and illustration. It’s been a wild ride, full of inside jokes about coconut oil and “Friday Night Lights” actor Tim Riggins, living off nothing but Ramen and whatever we can put into the red Keurig when deadlines are coming up, spilling tea in our Snapchat group and staking claims over which senior each of us wanted to cover for this issue. The Senior Issue features stories of various graduating seniors who have accomplished great things during their high school careers. There’s a lot of those in the Class of 2017, so we specifically sought out seniors who we thought didn’t get enough recognition or fame, as opposed to covering the same few people that everyone already knows is awesome. You’ll find athletes, musicians, activists, dancers, even a CEO. In addition, parents and loved ones left Words of Wisdom for their seniors, and seniors leave behind things for underclassmen in their Last Wills and Testaments. The craziest thing about this issue is its extraordinary production process. This issue was conceived, written, designed and finalized in scarcely more than a week. Most issues take over a month to complete. Of course, the fact that we only had a week was mostly our fault for getting behind schedule. But we have no regrets. The insane time crunch for this issue allowed the staff a chance to showcase their incredible diligence, and the juniors a chance to display the leadership they’ll show off full-time next year. We seniors, between our last days of school and the celebrations of Senior Week, provided much less planning and oversight for this issue than we have all year. While we prepped our costumes for Decades Day of Senior Week – scanning Amazon for last minute ideas –

the underclassmen staffers journeyed to the University of Georgia for the Georgia Scholastic Press Association’s 2017 Spring Workshops and Award Ceremony. While we were sad not to join them, we knew our time for travelling to high school journalism conferences was over. It was now their time to bond as a staff, learn new things, make new inside jokes and create their own memories that will hold them together without us. At the conference, they took home one Excellent and five Superior awards, and Maddie Ledet ‘18 won runner-up for Junior Champion Journalist for Georgia. When they arrived home, we saw a determination and passion in their eyes that exactly mirrored ours around the same time last year. The entire staff hunkered down, made a clear plan and stayed focused both during and outside of school hours to finish this issue. They constantly texted each other things to do, brainstormed ideas, picked up pizza for everyone working and provided words of support, and their work paid off. Here in your hands is the fruit of their labor, and the legacy we shall leave behind. Initially, we were very sad to no longer be a part of The Blade, a publication that has made our last two years in high school more fun, challenging and meaningful than we ever thought they could be. But then we realized we will always be a part of The Blade, because The Blade is a family that pulls together vastly different parts of the Woodward community and makes everyone feel loved, welcomed and important. We know The Blade will not only continue to survive, but thrive without us and surpass our legacy, as it should. To us, that means we have succeeded as Editors. We thank you for your readership, loyalty, talent and criticism for inspiring our stories and pushing us forward. Please enjoy these stories from the Class of 2017 as they embark on the next chapter of their lives, and we will do the same. Thank you and Goodbye, The Editors

SEHAJ SINGH REKHI / The One and Only Sehaj Rekhi handles being the sole Sikh at school in stride. by Jayden Khatib

Jayden Khatib ‘19

here is only one Sikh student in the Upper School, and his turban gives that away without him saying a single word. Sehaj Rekhi ‘17 does not try to hide his faith. Rekhi has been instrumental in leaving many with a positive view of Sikhism. Rekhi serves on the Chaplain’s Council and founded the Sikh Awareness Club. Students and faculty alike agree that he has had a huge impact on the community. “Sehaj’s impact on the community has been groundbreaking since he has opened up not only my eyes but also my

peers’ eyes to the world of Sikhism,” said Merritt Winter ‘17, Rekhi’s friend. “Sehaj has undoubtedly been one of the most key factors in making Woodward the diverse community it is today.” Sikhism originated in the Punjab region of India and is not widespread in the United States. Different organizations claim that the number of Sikhs in America could be anywhere from 78,000 to 500,000. It is difficult for people outside of the Sikh community to understand the principles behind a religion with so few American adherents.

“I think about it as practicing through actions. Our key foundation principles are service to others, do honest work and meditate every day. Two out of the three just come down to what you do in your regular life. Do you do work honestly? Do you do work on the path of a good Sikh?” said Rekhi. “If you give service to others, which our school preaches everyday, you’re also on the path.” Other people in his position may not have been as open about their religion, since being the only person practicing a religion at a school can be difficult.

”Sehaj tells me these stories when we have our meetings about the things that occur. I get more mad than he does.” Mr. Brian Jackson

“For some students [being the only student practicing their faith] can be really challenging, and there can be a sense of isolation or a sense of ‘Everyone is looking at me differently because I practice this thing that’s separate or that’s foreign to them,’ but I think Sehaj is different,” said comparative religions teacher and chaplain Ms. Katie Kilpatrick. “He has embraced being the only one practicing his tradition and has used that as an opportunity to share his tradition with others and to promote religious understanding as a whole.” Rekhi sees his position as the sole Sikh student as an opportunity that forces him to to learn more about other traditions. “I’ve had to branch out and be more open to everybody and any faith,” said Rekhi. “I have a lot of Sikh friends outside of school, but when I come to school, it forces me to converse with other people no matter their religion.” Rekhi is an active member of the Yad-b’Yad club, and his Jewish friends’ insistence that Yad-b’Yad was fun and open to all traditions prompted Rekhi to start the Sikh Awareness Club. “I thought that if a Jewish club can involve other religions and people of different faiths, then why can’t I?” said Rekhi. “Even I, as a single person, can create a club where I can have people come for educational purposes, not to force any religion on one another.” The Sikh Awareness Club hosts meetings and Sikh Awareness days where anyone can come and ask questions about Sikhism. Rekhi later joined the Chaplain’s Council, a group of students that help Kilpatrick determine students’ religious needs. Years before Kilpatrick became the Chaplain, there was a Chaplain’s Council made up of adults from the community that helped pinpoint the religious needs on campus. Last year, she restarted the council with a group of students in order to get direct information about what the student community needs. Students on the Chaplain’s Council also speak about religious awareness to students in the Primary, Lower, Middle and Upper Schools. Kilpatrick asked Rekhi to represent Sikhism on the panel after she saw a presentation he gave about the religion. For the last two years, he has participated in the Week of Understanding religion panel as part of the Chaplain’s Council. “The panel has really changed how religion has been portrayed even in a

secular school. We still can have open, educational talks about religion, which is really important to have because that’s something that I feel we’re losing in society,” said Rekhi. People frequently ask Rekhi questions about Sikhism because of his involvement in religion-related activities. “He is approachable just as a human being. If you approach him respectfully, he will answer whatever question you have of him. Even if it may be construed by others to be a rude question, he won’t think of it as being ignorant or offensive. That is unique,” said social studies teacher and Sikh Awareness Club advisor Mr. Brian Jackson. Rekhi said people are usually respectful, but sometimes he fields ignorant questions and rude stereotypes. People sometimes profile Rekhi as a Muslim, so he experiences anti-Muslim discrimination. As a result, he deals with rude questions on topics such as international terrorism or Islamic extremism. Rekhi manages to stay calm about the more ignorant reactions to his tradition. “I hear about the microagressions. Sehaj tells me these stories when we have our meetings about the things that occur. I get more mad than he does. So he understands that this exists,” said Jackson. “He understands that it is going to happen, that it has happened, and that it’s going to continue to happen. He takes it all in stride.” Rekhi’s parents told him that he would have to deal with added pressures because of his religion at a young age. “Ever since I was born and was put in school, my parents have told me that ‘whatever you do, when people see a turban for the first time and when people see a Sikh for the first time, it’s the image that they’re going to remember for the rest of their lives. They might not see a Sikh ever in their lives, but if they do, they’ll remember the first one they ever met,” said Rekhi. “This is an added pressure, and it is a double standard because you can see it all around that if, say, a white person does something and it’s not good or morally correct, usually the person won’t go to another white person and say, ‘Just because you’re white, I saw someone do something bad, and you’re probably just the same way.’” Rekhi handles the pressure of being the only Sikh many people will meet. In

Photo byTejasvir Singh Rekhi

the school community, he gives Sikhism a friendly, accessible face. “It’s really easy in our particular culture, when we see someone wearing something different, to assume that they are someone we might not be able to interact with in a positive way or have negative assumptions based on things we see in the news,” said Kilpatrick. “Here, he’s worked to show students that his tradition is something that is unique and special but also something that is accessible to all of us, and that he is part of this community regardless of what he wears or the things that he believes.” Rekhi wants people to see Sikhism for what it is, and he thinks that the way he conducts himself in and outside of school helps people to understand that. “Through our temple, we have a lot of ways that we practice our religion through action. One big thing is that at the end of every month we organize a trip to the homeless shelter task force in Atlanta, and we make our own traditional food at our temple and bring it there and serve it. On the flip side of having an organized project, how I lead my life outside of school whether that be through what I do in general [or] in public,” said Rekhi. “Living with good morals, treating everybody with respect – I feel like that’s a really great way for anyone

“Living with good morals, treating everybody with respect – I feel like that’s a really great way for anyone to follow their religion because all religions have those values.” Sehaj Rekhi

to follow their religion because all religions have those values.” Jackson is unsure about the Sikh Awareness Club’s future without Rekhi. To him, the problem with affinity groups and clubs like affinity groups is that often times only people from that specific group or tradition get heavily involved. He worries that without a charismatic, approachable leader like Rekhi the club may not be as effective. “He was willing and free to talk about [his religion] with anybody, and a lot of time that’s where most education occurs,” said Jackson. “It may not necessarily occur officially in the meetings. It occurs because of Sehaj being who Sehaj is.” Rekhi thinks that the Sikh Awareness Club was a success because people are genuinely excited about attending meetings and events. He hopes that after he graduates people remember him as someone who lived his religion in his everyday life. “I came to live my religion without people caring what the religion is,” said Rekhi. “I love it when people ask me questions, but if they can see someone living their religion in society without making a big fuss about it and just living by good morals, I feel like I would’ve accomplished my goal.” ∆

SARI BIRCOLL / THE HUMANITARIAN Through service and dedication, Bircoll spreads positivity in a divisive society. By Kyndall Dunn

n today’s society with polarizing opinions on policies and government, Sari Bircoll ‘17 is a breath of fresh air. Throughout her academic studies, extracurricular activities and travels, her ultimate objective is to touch individual lives regardless of heritage or appearance. “My goal in life [is] to change someone’s life for the better. I’ve never thought I wanted to change the world. I just want to change one person’s world. To me that doesn’t have any less value than changing the entire planet,” said Bircoll. Bircoll’s family unit is one of the most important aspects of her life. Functioning as her support system, her mother, father and two brothers are her best friends. When Bircoll was ten, her father struggled with cancer. The experience matured her and allowed her to gain a deeper appreciation for those she loved. “My dad is a cancer survivor. That is a big part of why I’m so close with my family. At a young age I learned the value of other people that are important to me,” said Bircoll. “That also kicked off my community service because you never know what another

person’s going through, and all these people that seem invincible, like your own father, are just people.” In her contemporary drama class, Ms. Jane Graham assigned Bircoll to present an “Ah-ha” moment, a project that describes an inspirational experience she had in her life. Bircoll shared the heartening story of her father’s remission, and what her family felt during the final moments of battling his cancer. “I remember her presentation where she talked about attending a concert by Andrew McMahon. She attended with her dad, and he had just found out that his cancer was in remission,” said Graham. “Andrew McMahon is also a cancer survivor and had written a song entitled ‘The Resolution.’ She and her dad shared such an inspiring moment as they listened to the music and realized that his remission was a reality.” Similar to how Bircoll’s family holds much importance in her life, her culture is meaningful to her as well. Bircoll’s family has connected her to their Jewish heritage from a very young age. In Jewish day school, she learned about Israel’s historical importance

“It was difficult because it can be hard to walk into a classroom with preconceived notions about who I was going to be, but I got to break those ideas and shock people.” Sari Bircoll

Kyndall Dunn ‘19

as spiritual grounds for multiple religions. In 2013, after years of learning, she visited Israel. The trip exposed her to the power of kinship between all ethnicities. One of the most memorable points in her trip, when she still felt safe despite rockets flying directly in front of her, made her at peace with her culture. “In a country that’s so often war-torn, I still felt safe,” said Bircoll. “Americans, Israelis, Jews, Muslims and Christians around me felt the same way that I did. Since then, I’ve wanted to help spread that message.” Bircoll’s experience inspired her to write for StandWithUs, a high school internship program where students involve themselves in Israeli affairs and events. She shed light on the region by hosting events, writing stories and holding conversations. Her promotion of Israel began her service that would become gradually more significant as she grew older. “I have been able to work with some of the kindest and most talented people to spread positive messages about Israel and the Middle East,” said Bircoll. “I try to focus less on the wars and the

negativity that comes out of that region and focus more on the food, culture, music and technology because all of these things have a huge influence on us here.” Although overcoming adversity and embracing heritage have brought her closer to her family, being a member of the household is not always easy. Bircoll came to Woodward in the ninth grade, and although she was unfamiliar with her surroundings, the faculty already knew her because her siblings attended before her. Though her siblings accomplished more in certain academic areas, she became increasingly confident in her personal journey to success. “We’re all so different and equally successful. Both of them are incredibly smart, and I am just as smart in different ways,” said Bircoll. “It was difficult because it can be hard to walk into a classroom with preconceived notions about who I was going to be, but I got to break those ideas and shock people.” While her brothers were math and science oriented, Bircoll found her identity within fields like English, swimming and community service. Ms. Jeanne Ann Ratliff, English teacher, taught Bircoll in

Kyndall Dunn ‘19

tenth and 12th grade and noticed Bircoll’s drive in her studies. “She did not have an A in the second semester, and taking the exam in my class involved reading extra short stories. She had to come for extra tutorials, but she embraced that,” said Ratliff. “That emcompasses why she’s such a good yearbook [editor], because she jumps in and does whatever is necessary, and she doesn’t give up until it’s done.” Bircoll was head editor of the 2017 Phoenix yearbook, and she pushed herself to create a quality yearbook alongside her peers. More than being tough on herself, she was also tough on other members of the staff. She encouraged them to work to their fullest potential. Rebecca Hart ‘18 worked with her and said she appreciated Bircoll’s sincerity and altruistic nature. “She is very mom-like. She has a loving demeanor about her. If she notices potential, she’ll push you to do better,” said Hart. Bircoll tries to push for everyone’s best

work, but she celebrates success equally as hard. As the perfect balance between a friend and a mentor, she believes she knows her staff on a personal level which allows her to shine as editor. “Writing for the yearbook can be difficult, but there will be moments where I’ll watch one of my staff member’s writing transform,” said Bircoll. “I get this moment of pride where I get to be like a proud mom watching them become better.” From editing stories and pushing her peers in class to driving them home after school, Bircoll said she works to care about those around her. Her hard-working nature extends into her extracurricular activities such as swim. She dove head first into the sport when she was five years old and continued through high school. “The swim team was my first love at the school,” said Bircoll. “I was new here, and I didn’t know anyone. When I walked into that locker room on the first day of tryouts, my whole world shifted. I had a family here.”

Ms. Danielle LeFevers, fourth grade science and social studies teacher and swim coach, enjoyed the determination that Bircoll brought to the swim team. Within the short time she has coached, LeFevers witnessed Bircoll’s personal growth. “Last year as a junior she struggled with stepping outside of her comfort zone as far as strokes that she swam. I wanted her to start swimming [backstroke and butterfly] more often,” said LeFevers. “She had a shoulder injury previously, so it was hard for her to work through that, but she pushed herself and was able to do all of the strokes I was asking her to do.” Beyond the school’s walls, Bircoll’s love for service led her to younger kids in need of a mentor. She volunteered with kids at the Boys and Girls Club and Main Street Academy to provide a positive example. “I believe in education more than I believe in anything else,” said Bircoll. “When I have moments where I watch their eyes light up when they finally understand a math problem, it makes me feel really good

– like I’m making a difference.” More than just teaching others, Bircoll seeks learning opportunities where she is the student. Last summer, Bircoll journeyed on Etgar 36, a 36-day trip to 26 states around the country. During the trip, she learned firsthand about the different sides of issues most important to Americans. She said she enjoyed hearing from people with beliefs on all angles of controversial matters such as gun control and abortion. “I would go to a shooting range and hear from an NRA lobbyist, and the next day I went to Columbine and spoke with a man whose son was murdered and is now a gun law activist,” said Bircoll. “I got to be immersed in these communities.” The group learned through experience, which gave Bircoll a new perspective on the struggles people live with daily. Because she was able to place herself in another’s shoes, Bircoll said she walked away a more understanding person. “There was a day we were learning about low-income families and how they feed themselves. We only ate what they could eat that day and only shopped at the places they could shop,” said Bircoll. “We went to a farmer’s market that was specifically targeted [at] low-income families, and that’s where we ate for lunch that day.” Billy Planer, founder and director of Etgar 36, hopes students care more about the subjects they learned during the trip, even if they do not directly affect them. Bircoll embodied the ideal student, according to Planer. “She was engaged and involved in the discussions and worked hard to develop her own thinking about these issues. She was always upbeat,” said Planer. “At the end of the day,

the goal of the program is to get the participants to give a damn.” Bircoll said she stepped into her own persona as a mentoring and knowledgeable individual. According to Graham, she acts as a leader within her classroom. “I get the feeling that Sari’s an old soul, and she has all of this wisdom that she shares with the class,” said Graham. As Bircoll ventures to Washington University in St. Louis, she will take her current lessons and memories with her. Although Bircoll does not specifically know the career she wants, she said she does know what kind of legacy she wants to leave: one that at it’s core promotes kindness and honesty. “There’s a quote that I got on a fortune cookie,” said Bircoll. “It’s this little piece of paper that I have hanging up in my bathroom so I see it every morning. It says, ‘Live in such a way that if someone spoke badly of you, no one would believe it.’” Bircoll said she believes service and generosity are powerful in our society where people often use their words for harm. Her humanitarianism has touched the lives of many and transformed the community around her. Bircoll said she tries not to discriminate when she views another human being, and she hopes society can heal and begin to think similarly. “One of my favorite things about what I do is that the people I try to help go beyond politics,” said Bircoll. “My hope is that one day people can understand that those differences don’t make any person any worse. We can learn to stop seeing people who are different from us as ‘the other’ and start seeing them as ‘another.’ Then we can start having conversation.” ∆

“When I have moments where I watch their eyes light up when they finally understand a math problem, it makes me feel really good – like I’m making a difference.” Sari Bircoll

CAROLINE CULVER / SINGER Caroline Culver is a dedicated musician who aspires to make the world a little brighter one strum at a time. by Tanvi Reddy

aturday night at Kavarna, the currently crowded yet cozy coffee shop in the Oakhurst community of Decatur, magic pulses through the air. Caroline Culver ‘17 takes the stage, looking as if she popped out of a Free People catalog with her gypsylike grey knit dress, long white kimono and braids throughout her hair. She is opening for fellow musician and peer Mia Green ‘18. Buzzing from coffee, the audience, a diverse group of high school fangirls, teachers and grandparents, lights up. Girls pull their phones out to share Culver’s talent with the rest of their friends on Snapchat. Looking down, she strums the first chords on her guitar with her eyes closed and begins the pre-chorus to the first song of her set, “Burning Gasoline.” Her voice falls over the crowd like pixie dust, immediately bringing smiles. The group of people sitting directly in front have their eyes glued to the stage. She leads the crowd as they sing along, accompanying her voice and following every word. When it ends, Culver smiles really wide, blushing as she thanks the audience for listening.

“I was so happy to have [Caroline] open for me on Saturday,” Green later said. “I couldn’t have picked a better opener. I feel like the crowd really responded to her.” These moments are common whenever Culver plays. Best friend Isabelle Koscik ‘17 tries to go to as many of her shows as she can and never gets tired of watching Culver perform. “Mostly when Caroline plays it’s dead silent and you can tell that the people in the room are amazed at how talented and amazing she is,” Koscik said. Surprisingly, Culver was not always as confident with attention as she is now. Life experiences and a passion for music led her to this point – completely sure of herself and her ability to move people. “At first I was nervous to perform since all my songs are so personal, and [it’s] hard to sing and accompany myself, especially to people I don’t know or my peers,” Culver said. “Now I’ve gotten to the point where I know this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. I’ve become so much more comfortable with myself and

Courtesy of Caroline Culver ‘17

my artistry, so I want to share my music.” As a child, Culver grew up admiring teenage icons such as Hannah Montana and Taylor Swift. She has been singing for as long as she can remember, hosting mini “concerts” for her family with the songs she wrote, though she never sang for her friends because she was shy when she was younger. She wrote lyrics but felt unsure of their significance and was hesitant to share them. Even though she always had a way with words, her writing skills did not fully develop until she started accompanying her lyrics with melody. Starting on the piano, she shifted her focus to her main instrument, the guitar, in seventh grade because it was easier to freestyle, how Culver gets her best lyric and melody writing. After improving her guitar skills, she began covering songs, which eventually led her to write her own. Culver takes pride in her intuitive ability to sympathize with the people and world around her and reflects this trait in her music. She said she always tries to help people through her music. “I feel responsible for some things people are going through, and

I like to listen to what they have to say about something and write a song from their perspective,” Culver said. “My songs aren’t only about me and what I go through. It might not be relatable to me, but I can feel for [others].” Attuning herself to other people’s feelings and feeling their pain on a level as raw as Culver might be too much for some people, but she can handle it. “I don’t think of [people’s pain] as anything to do with a burden at all, I just think about how I can help this person feel comfortable enough to talk about it,” Culver said. “I know how important it is to talk about your feelings; I freaking sing about them. I just want that person to feel like I’m there.” Culver tries to incorporate music and a creative spirit as much as she can into her daily life. Her chorus teacher, Ms. Suzanne Woodruff, who has known Culver since the seventh grade, commended Culver’s involvement with music in school. She takes guitar class and also sings in numerous ensembles, including Festival Singers, a Women’s Quartet and Camerata, the most advanced group. She is a first soprano and has a versatile range. “Over the years, we’ve seen her voice and her range expand, and I think that’s from singing everyday in choir,” Woodruff said. “She can sing low, and she can sing high. A lot of singers that do the style of music that she does have a much more limited range than Caroline does.” Culver has also left a legacy with her chorus peers. Woodruff believes these students really respect her, and she inspired younger girls to attain a closer relationship with music. “I don’t know Caroline very well, but her dedication to her music and the passion in her songs is inspiring to anyone who can appreciate music,” classmate Kathryn Cahoon ’18 said. “She’s inspired me as an artist to put myself out there more as a soloist in chorus this year.” Admired by her peers inside and outside the chorus room, Culver sometimes feels overwhelmed by all the support and love her peers show her. To her, she’s just another girl trying to share her love with the world. “I’m just me. I’m just Caroline. I’m no one special in my mind. I just am doing this because it’s a natural thing that I have to do,” Culver said. “I can’t go a week without writing songs. I write all the time, and it’s just funny to me that I can do that.” Songwriting is not straightforward, as inspiration comes to Culver at random times. The writing period for each song is different. It can take four days to barely 20 minutes when her most personal songs come like a “stream of consciousness.” Season changes inspire her, as she writes more in the spring than winter. When channeling her feelings, she prefers to reflect on an event after it has happened, unable to immediately write about recent experiences because the memories are “too fresh.” Inspiration comes from things Culver leasts expects. Sometimes she will sit down and not even know what she is going to write about, but the tiniest details can cause words to just pour out of her. “It’s just a feeling.” Culver said, “Some people need an outlet for themselves, and mine’s writing songs. I just have a lot of feelings and emotions, and the way I release is through writing songs.” Even though songwriting may come naturally to Culver, she is familiar with hard work and practice due to her learning disabilities. She was placed in the transition program throughout Lower and Middle School to support her unique learning style. “It never phased me. ‘Oh you’re different?’ It was just a bump in

the road because I never really got on myself because of that, and I think it probably was because of music,” Culver said. “School’s never really been my interest. It didn’t make me happy getting good grades. I could put all my strength into music.” However, with the guitar, Culver struggles with rhythm because keeping the tempo is challenging for her. She works with songwriting mentor and popular vocal teacher, Mama Jan, to develop herself as an artist. Culver finds playing with other musicians and taking lessons with a guitar teacher helpful for her rhythm difficulties. “She knows what hard work is because when you have a learning disability, it means you can get there, but you just have to get there a different way,” Woodruff said. “I think because she has that stamina she doesn’t give up.” The transition program allowed Culver to develop as a person and student. She now knows how to study and play her strengths to her advantage in school and mantains honor roll. “I think transition is an awesome program, and I love how Woodward does that,” Culver said. “Looking at all the people who were in transition with me, so many have moved up to AP classes and done really cool things.” On tough days when she struggled to keep up in school, Culver used music as an emotional outlet. The more Culver wrote music, the more she fell in love with it. She realized that nothing else would make her happier than exploring her passion everyday and became really serious about it. This path began with her first EP, writing songs in ninth and 10th grade, and finally recording them in 11th grade. Drafting an album requires a lot of dedication. First semester of her junior year, Culver was in the studio for five to six hours a day, even on school nights, staying up until midnight or later. It was a meticulous process. “I would take four tracks of just my singing, and then take tracks of the guitar,

and then figure out what’s the best one,” Culver said. “Normally I would hit all of the perfect vocals on the fourth time I went over the song because it would take me a minute to get into the zone.” After creating her first EP, Culver learned something about herself that she could not have learned any other way. It was more than writing an album and just throwing words together. Culver was sharing herself with the world in the best way she knew how, defining herself not only as a musician but as a person. “What comes out of an EP is your heart and soul and everything you feel and everything you want others to feel from it,” Culver said. “It’s the main jist of somebody’s art.” Culver enjoyed this experience so much that it made her realize she wanted to do it for the rest of her life. She hopes to become a recording artist signed with a record label and continue performing. The rush after a concert and the idea that she has the ability to shape people’s emotions is not something she would ever give up.

“I don’t care [what other people think],” Culver said. “I know that [music] is the only thing that really drives me and gets me up in the morning, so I’m going to keep doing it for the rest of my life. If fame is in the road, then it’s awesome, but if it’s not, then it’s not.” Some people may sing for the fame or some for the fortune but not Culver. For her, it really is the music and the people she connects with that motivate her. “I don’t want to be super famous; I like that lowkey fame,” Culver said. “I don’t want my music to be overlooked like when people get super famous. I just want to keep sharing my songs and writing them for other people.” Besides her EP, one of Culver’s biggest accomplishments include earning a scholarship for a five week music program at Berklee College of Music in Boston last summer. She even got a shout out from TuneCore, a music distribution website, as Indie Artist of the Week. Releasing an EP has opened up a lot of doors for her and given her special opportunities. This year,

she collaborated with small clothing boutique Gypsy and Magnolia to film a music video for her song “Just This Time.” She relentlessly went to the store, introduced herself and asked to do a project together. After going multiple times, she crafted close relationships with the girls there. The next step in her journey is Belmont University, where Culver will be joining the highly selective songwriting program as one of its incoming 200 students. She will pursue music business as well. Even though she had the option to go to Berklee, Caroline’s need for diverse perspectives made Belmont the perfect fit for her. “I wanted to go to a school that had a lot of people who were majoring in different things and had different passions than me because as much as I love music, I have grown up with people who are not like me,” Culver said. “I really appreciate different passions because that gives me inspiration. And Nashville is closer to home and is the songwriting capital of the world.” On stage, Culver quietly commands the presence of her audience, automatically drawing their eyes. It took her some time to step outside of the shell she was in as a child and have the courage to express her innermost thoughts to an audience filled

with unfamiliar faces. “It took me a long time before I understood [how to express myself to strangers]. People say that song helped me through when my brother had cancer, that song helped me through a time when my boyfriend broke up with me, that [song] helped me through when my parents were getting divorced. Stuff like that lets me know that I can do this,” Culver said. “I am connecting to so many people on such a deep level. Something that I wrote about my sister can relate to a 50 year old man.” Music to Culver is like oxygen – something she can’t live without. More than writing for herself, she writes for the people around her and the universal struggles they go through. Her attention to details and focus on meaning in her lyrics all contribute to her music. Listening to Culver’s music makes one already feel like they know a part of her, and that she knows her listener’s story too. In this age of social media, materialistic wants and an overall lack of personal connection, Culver aspires to be something that is hard to find: real. “She’s got a big heart, she’s very compassionate and very giving to other people,” Woodruff said. “I just think she’s a great friend to people and has got a lot of love to share.” ∆

“I’m just me. I’m just Caroline. I’m no one special in my mind. I just am doing this because it’s a natural thing that I have to do. I can’t go a week without writing songs.”

Anna Lee â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;18

Kamau Robinson / Rapper An aspiring rapper ready to take on New York by Kendall Heggie

oundcloud is the new hotspot for emerging artists. Recent breakouts such as Lil Yachty and Lil Uzi Vert started their careers on the music sharing platform. Kamau Robinson ‘17, a future St. John’s University marketing student, has been making music for a little over a year and recently started to gain popularity on Soundcloud. Robinson started making music late in his sophomore year and really became serious mid-way during his junior year. “I am working on a lot of things. I am trying to get a record deal. I am working on getting it distributed around everywhere,” said Robinson. Passionate about music, Robinson made his first track to prove himself to a friend. “My friend said to me, ‘You can’t rap.’ I said to him, ‘Bet.’ And I went home to make a track.” Though the first track was rough, he kept working, and his music improved. After Robinson’s dad got him a microphone, he really began to sound professional. Robinson explained that he has a erratic writing process, but in terms of recording he takes his computer downstairs, locks the

door and works on his verses for three to four hours at a time. Robinson has a notebook full of ideas and at least 500 lyrics on his phone. Finding time to make music in high school is a lot of work. Robinson said he has to work on time management. “I end up making music before I do a term paper. It’s my passion,” he said. Robinson draws inspiration from the popular Chicago-based artist Chance The Rapper. The first time hearing him, Robinson thought, “the dude is kinda fye.” After dropping his track “Real” in October, Robinson’s music attracted more fans. “[My songs] normally get 1000 plays a song. This song got 13,000,” said Robinson. Inspried by Kanye West’s “Graduation,” Robinson is currently working on a mixtape inspired by his high school experience. “It’s like a weird whole concept about going through high school and embracing who you are. Being whomever you are – just everyday stuff,” said Robinson. He cannot wait to get to St. John’s so he can take on the New York music scene. Robinson hopes to tap into the music world

while going to college though he does not plan on taking any music classes. “My dad put this in context for me,” said Robinson. “If you take music classes, the content may be out of date. It may not be as current as it could be.” Instead, he plans to major in marketing which he feels is a safer option. “Music is my dream, but you always have to have a fall-back plan,” said Robinson. But he will still be chasing after music 110 percent. “When I get to New York, I am just going to try and find venues and do concerts. That’s where it happens – in New York.” Robinson also dreams of starting his own record label Wishful Records. He says the motto will be “putting that wishing into action.” ∆

Social Media Instagram: ksrob99 SoundCloud: ksmoove14

Athletic (Off) Grounds Athletics are a significant part of school life. Students, parents and faculty often flock to everything from football to volleyball games in College Park or elsewhere in Georgia. However, what student athletes do outside of school often flies under the radar. by Aly Shakoor

1. Andy Sun ‘17 holds his American flag printed fencing mask. Nic Huey ‘16. 2. Avni Kulkari ‘17 helps her teammates row to the finish line. Courtesy of Avni Kulkarni. 3. Julia Gianneschi ‘17 laughs while showcasing her fencing mask and sword. Emily Citarella ‘17. 4. Emily Hewitt ‘17 steers her house down the track while donning riding attire. Courtesy of Emily Hewitt.

vni Kulkarni ‘17, a participant in rowing, or crew, is one of these outside-of-school athletes. Kulkarni rows competitively for the Atlanta Junior Rowing Association. Between the fall and spring rowing seasons and winter training, she rows with her team on the Chattahoochee River almost year-round. Kulkarni practices six days a week during the season, with the seventh day reserved for independent workouts. Even off-season, her team only gets one day off per week from training, which she rushes to attend every day after school. “People think I’m crazy when I’m running after last period,” said Kulkarni. “Right when the announcements are done, I’m out of that building.” Perhaps because rowing is not a school sport, many fail to realize just how much work rowers like Kulkarni put into their sport. Besides the huge time commitment, crew is one of the most physically taxing competitive activities, which Kulkarni plans to continue at Georgetown University. “It’s always a struggle getting up to the third floor of Brand every day,” said Kulkarni. “It’s definitely a sport that challenges you every day, but it’s very satisfying. It’s nice to see when your actual work is translated into a personal record or a good race result.” While Kulkarni practices with her team in the water, Emily Hewitt ‘17 trains with a special friend on land. Hewitt practices dressage, a discipline of horseback riding in which the rider and the horse must coordinate and perform a series of movements from memory. Hewitt competes in various international horse shows, which she attends almost every weekend during the season in places like North Carolina, Florida and other parts of Georgia. Hewitt recently qualified for and won a gold medal with three other riders from her region at the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships. “When learning something new on a horse, it’s very difficult because both you and your horse get confused,” said Hewitt. “When you finally connect and understand each other, it truly is the best

feeling when I go to a show and I start to feel that all of my hard work is paying off.” Hewitt devotes a lot of time out of school to stay competitive in dressage. She has a lesson with her trainer five days a week at a farm in Canton, Georgia, and she spends December through March training with current and former Olympians in Florida. “I feel like it is harder to do this sport outside of school as opposed to doing it in school because I get home later than I would if I did a school sport, which makes keeping up with school work a bit harder,” said Hewitt. “I wish people knew more about dressage. Not many people know about it, and I would like them to know the difficulty of it and the general terms used when talking about it.” Julia Gianneschi ‘17 and Andy Sun ‘17 are two more athletes who train for a sport out of school. Gianneschi and Sun practice fencing, another physically taxing sport popular around the world. For almost the entire year, the fencers train at an athletic club four to five days a week, a time commitment most student athletes only shoulder for a part of the year. “I definitely put in as much work if not more than other Woodward varsity athletes,” said Gianneschi. “I’m going to college for my sport.” Fencers often go abroad for international tournaments, requiring them to miss chunks of schooldays. Through this extra obstacle, Gianneschi and Sun have still maintained good grades in classes that are mostly at the honors and AP level. Sun even managed to become salutatorian for the class. “Balancing fencing and school is challenging at times,” said Sun. “But representing Team USA at world championships two years in a row was an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything.” Like many other out-of-school athletes, fencers do not always enjoy the same attention as athletes that practice and compete on school property. “I wish that out-of-school athletes got a little more recognition,” said Gianneschi. “I would like to have had the chance to earn a letter jacket, but because it’s not a Woodward sport, I couldn’t.” ∆

“People think I’m crazy when I’m running after last period. Right when the announcements are done, I’m out of that building.” Avni Kulkarni

Courtesy of Sierra Henry â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;17

SIERRA HENRY / DANCER Sierra Henry has been dancing since she was four and plans to continue pursuing her passion at Texas Christian University. by Lizzy Levine

any young girls dream about being ballerinas when they grow up. For Sierra Henry ‘17, that dream started at age four when she first entered a little studio in Alpharetta, Georgia, with an interest in ballet and an aptitude with music. “I have always been very musical since my dad plays the drums. All my friends were doing it, and it seemed fun,” Henry said. Fourteen years later, Henry is proficient in ballet, contemporary dance, pointe and even choreography. Once influenced by her friends to join an activity that ‘seemed fun,’ Henry now devotes nearly 20 hours each week to practice at her dance company, the Roswell Dance Theatre. Henry also balances a rigorous academic schedule consisting of multiple AP and honors classes with daily dance practices. “She spends so much time at dance. If you ever see her leaving school after the

last bell, she speed-walks to her car to go straight to dance. It just means the world to her,” said Henry’s friend, Anna Lee ‘18. Despite Henry’s busy school and dance schedule, her love of being onstage and performing with friends inspires her to continue dancing and practicing. “If a week goes by and she has not been dancing, she’s not happy. It has become truly a part of who she is,” said Henry’s mother, Robyn Henry. Henry’s favorite style of dance is contemporary, and she intends to major in dance along with strategic communications at Texas Christian University, where she was awarded the Nordan Scholarship, one of the top awards in the College of Fine Arts. However, her passion is choreographing individual pieces, and she hopes to one-day choreograph for TV, movies or dance companies. Each of Henry’s choreographed dances has a personal meaning and tells a story.

“It’s interesting that even though you can have one idea of what you think [the piece] is about, people will see the same piece and get something completely different out of it. You relate your own story and your own life to someone else’s story,” Henry said. The diverse roles Henry undertakes as a dancer enable her to try different aspects of the art. Dance and choreography allow her to further learn about herself. “Dancing makes me me because I can explore everything I could be. I don’t have to be a certain person because every dance, and every character calls for different emotions,” Henry said. Henry created a choreographed piece this past year to music by composer Drehz, which she named “Composed of Nows.” With a capable team working along her side, Henry and her fellow dancers cooperatively generated abstract ideas in rehearsal. “I wouldn’t have been able to do [the

“If a week goes by and she has not been dancing, she’s not happy. It has become truly a part of who she is.” Robyn Henry

dance] without [the other dancers] being so willing to go for it. The message behind the piece is about living in every moment, and I really enjoyed playing with the meaning and the choreography,” Henry said. Due to Henry’s interest in choreography, she attended SERBA, a national dance festival hosted by the Southeast Regional Ballet Association. At this festival, Henry won the Monticello Award, an award given to one dancer in the Southeast region for outstanding choreography, and her choreographed piece was chosen to be included in the program. “It was incredible. It was so reassuring to know that someone liked my work and felt like it was worth sharing with others,” Henry said. Along with achieving the Monticello Award for her choreography, Henry performed as a professional dancer for the Southern Ballet Theatre’s production of “The Nutcracker.” Henry undertook the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, a leading character in the show. “I’d never done something like that before, and it kind of felt like that’s what professional dancers do. I was getting a taste of if I were to become a professional dancer and what it would be like,” Henry said. Many would think that performing onstage in front of large audiences would be nerve-wracking and scary. For Henry, it’s just another part of the job. Henry also has substantial muscle memory from practicing the steps over and over, which ingrains the routine into her head and makes performing less stressful. “Performing and hearing the audience and seeing them from onstage is really cool. I don’t really get nervous anymore, but if I do, then it’s gone once I go onstage. You’re there to do your job,” Henry said. Although Henry deems dancing her job, her love of the art inspires her to push herself and sacrifice other activities for dance. “She has a strong stage presence and shines on stage because she loves every minute she is there. She is a strong, graceful dancer who feels the music and attempts perfection every time she dances,” said Robyn Henry. ∆

ALEX KOSTYSHEN / The Yogi 200 hours of training later, she can finally reap the rewards of being a yoga instructor. by Erin Edwards

enior Alex Kostyshen handles the dayto-day pressures of adolescence one sun salutation at a time. Kostyshen became a certified yoga instructor this year and teaches classes at Thunderbolt Power Yoga studio several times a week. Kostyshen’s interest in yoga began when she moved from Johns Creek to Buckhead her sophomore year. She had been practicing at the Thunderbolt Power Yoga a couple of times a week when her instructor brought teacher training to her attention. Initially, Kostyshen thought participating in the training course meant learning how to do more complex poses. Unbeknownst to her, she actually signed up to start her certification process, which required 200 hours of active yoga and a lot of anatomy homework. The first two weeks of training consisted entirely of mental and emotional analysis, where prospective teachers were asked to remove their metaphorical masks. “You discuss experiences and really try to talk about something that makes you choke up, and you dive into [that feeling] and try to find one raw theme with why that experience made you so upset,” Kostyshen said. During these unmasking sessions, Kostyshen admitted she was initially closed off, but soon opened up. She was able to reflect on the struggles that led her to yoga. “Mentally, I had some experiences that upset me in a way that made me react really poorly, so I started doing things I shouldn’t have done and started handling things in ways that really distanced me from my family and made me angry,” Kostyshen said. “Once I started doing teacher training, it helped me see perspective and the whole idea that everyone has those moments, everyone’s been through it and everyone gets through it.” Kostyshen said she recognized that she previously lived an “ungrounded” lifestyle, and having an hour designated to introspection and self-care significantly helped her to become more grounded. Especially during a time in which she said she feels the strain of “being caught in between being an adult and not being an adult,” yoga helps her to be optimistic about the future. “It helps me stay focused and see everything in perspective and take life with a breath,” Kostyshen said. “Especially with college applications, it helps me understand

I’m going to get in somewhere, I’m going to go, I’m going to be happy and I’m going to adapt. So part of that grounding is it helps me take life calmly and understand there’s this bigger picture.” After the first couple training sessions, Kostyshen soon began surpassing the minimum requirement of classes per week, sometimes attending classes twice a day during the school week. After becoming a teacher, the studio became her home. “It’s such a community you become embraced in and comforted in, and a lot of these people have become my friends, almost like family,” Kostyshen said. After dedicating herself to yoga and self improvement, she has focused more on mending her relationships with family members. She cites yoga as a way to help her grow with other people. “All the bridges that I burned are mended,” Kostyshen said. “[Yoga] helps you realize how to form stronger [relationships] or how to forgive or how to forget.” Forgiveness and letting go are some of the themes that Kostyshen centers her classes around. In teacher training, she did a lot of reflective writing to identify themes in her life that connect to the common themes in her students’ lives. “There’s so much writing on yourself, on poses, on struggles, on happy moments and you come out not fixed, but understanding how to enlighten your perspective, enlighten others and how to grow your self-awareness,” Kostyshen said. In a class Kostyshen led centered on confidence, she incorporated core exercises because confidence aligns with the abdominal chakra, or center of spiritual power in the body. She also made her students chant empowering phrases, like “I’m confident” or “I love myself,” while in their poses. She has received very positive feedback from her students, one of whom is a Woodward graduate. “A lot of [yoga] is spiritual recovery, understanding yourself, understanding the world and understanding how to convey these themes authentically,” Kostyshen said. “It’s trying to put these things that you went through and everyone goes through in a positive light, how you can either fix your reality or accept the good things. It’s the best experience I’ve ever had.” ∆

Erin Edwards ‘17

Linda Shi ‘19

MAX ABRAMSON & TRIPP HASKINS / DEBATERS The dyanmic duo of the debate team. By Linda Shi

ost students do not conjure up images of gleeful cheerleaders, heated stadiums and opposing teams at each other’s throats for the taste of victory when they think of debate. However, for the few who have dug their heels within the heart of this extracurricular activity, a debate tournament ignites in them the same sort of fire as a big game on football players. For duo Max Abramson ‘17 and Tripp Haskins ‘17, their tumultuous yet victory-filled high school debate careers draw to a close with graduation. Since they seem to hold a prominent presence on the debate team, it is surprising that both of their debate careers started on a reluctant note. “I joined debate in the [seventh grade of] middle school,” said Abramson. “Originally, I did not want to join debate, but my parents thought that I would be good at it. So, they kinda forced me to go. And despite my protests, I sort of fell in love with it.” Haskins became a part of the team in ninth grade at the request of his parents who worried that their son spent too much time at home. During the summer of ninth grade, he grew to really love the activity during the debate camp where he made a bunch of fellow debate friends. As the boys discovered, good partnerships and relationships built

the basis of the debate team and allowed them to open up every school year on a good note. Each school year the team received a predetermined topic relevant to the current news. This year, they debated the dilemma of whether or not the US should increase economic and diplomatic engagement with China. After intensive research, they wrote arguments for both affirmative and negative positions on the topic and practiced speeches with fellow teammates. Debate functions as a cooperative effort between two people. During a debate, partners switch back and forth between opening speeches, cross-examinations of the other group, rebuttals and closing speeches. Assigned to be partners junior year, Abramson and Haskins grew to be the cornerstone of the current debate team. “I think it was a really good decision,” said debate coach Ms. Maggie Berthiaume. “They’re pretty different in terms of how they work. Max is super research-oriented, and Tripp is a little bit more interested in the in-round debating. But the two of them together balance each other so nicely and really help each other. I think that one of the things that makes a great debate team is when they’re good at different things.” While they are a compatible duo, it took time for them to figure out how they fit together. Abramson initially saw Haskins as

Linda Shi ‘19

a more athletic type, especially since Haskins first pursued sports along with debate. “[I thought it] was originally sort of a weird pairing in the first place, because we weren’t expecting to be partners that year,” said Abramson. “But it really worked out. And we really played off each other’s strengths. We developed [into] the debaters we are today.” Throughout their many competitions and countless hours spent alongside each other for preparation of tournaments, Abramson and Haskins have gained an incredible understanding of each other’s dynamics. “We’re dysfunctional, but in different ways that makes us functional,” said Haskins. “It’s kind of hard to explain. The way in which we both operate and think about things – it’s kind of like ‘I’m bad, he’s good or he’s bad, I’m good.’ We fix each other’s wrongs and help each other where we struggle the most.” While all the debate members contribute to the background research, Haskins still emphasizes his partner’s invaluable strength in fact-finding. “He’s one of the hardest workers that I know,” said Haskins. “He does a lot of research for the team. He works his tail off basically all the time. He’s very smart while I generally lack the ability to maintain concentration on a lot of things.” According to their fellow debaters, Haskins handles the speaking part of debate better. Particularly, his efficiency allows him to better utilize his time, packing a punch with his argument while speaking the shortest amount words as possible. “I actually debated with Tripp this year at a tournament that we

won,” said Malachi Robinson ‘19, who is also on the debate team. “Last year, I looked up to him because he was really good. He was a junior, but they were like the best team last year as juniors. And every time I watched him give his speech, I said ‘Okay, I’m gonna try to do that.” Both of the boys serve as mentors for the rest of the debate group. Besides preparing for their own arguments and research, they strive to be a valuable resource and to set clear standards for their younger counterparts. “Especially when someone who’s a senior [does work],” said Robinson, “it creates a working environment where iron sharpens iron, and we all do better work because of that.” According to Haskins, the pair spends up to 15 to 20 hours practicing the weekend prior to a debate tournament. They often meet after school to practice with each other to perfect the structure of their arguments or mimic the possible questioning done by the opposing team. “We have practice almost everyday after school,” said Berthiaume. “They spend time after practice, they spend time in class. One or both of them almost always spend lunch in the debate room, also working on things. And then they spend any weekend that they’re not traveling working on debate. The work effort of the two of them this year is very, very high.” Abramson’s hard work throughout the four years of his debate career landed him as first place on the Top Ten Point Earner in the “Modern Era” of debate since 2012. This is a point-keeping system that depends on the number of debates that are attended

“Debate spills over a lot into real life because a lot of things you learn in terms of knowledge are applicable regularly.” Max Abramson

and won (three points for a loss and six points for a win.) “Overtime, we tabulate students’ points, and so over the course of four years, Max had the highest point total of the debaters that are currently debating,” said Berthiaume. “He is in first place at Woodward in the Modern Era. They changed point calculation in a way that makes it hard to compare the class of 2017 to the class of 2004 or whatever. Of recent classes, Max has done the best in terms of National Speech and Debate Association points.” This year, the boys made it all the way to the state championship. At big competitions, they usually debated in six preliminary rounds. When those debates ended, the judges took the top number of teams, usually 16 to 32, and put them into bracket-style elimination debates. Leading up to the final match, Abramson and Haskins never lost a single preliminary debate. “So the first tournament of the year they were 6-0, then second tournament of the year they were 6-0 – all the way up,” said Berthiaume. “So, through the regular season, they had a perfect preliminary round record, which is astronomically good.” The duo faced the ultimate roadblock as their flight to the National Debate Coach Association Nationals in Ogden, Utah, was cancelled due to inclement weather. Because of the time crunch, they had to sacrifice the quality of their performance if they remained adamant on participating in the tournament. “‘We were like, ‘No, it’s not us to do that,’” said Abramson. “We don’t go to tournaments unprepared. And we wouldn’t feel right having our last debates be unprepared and unfulfilling

because we were so desperate for a little bit of competitive air time. We both made that decision jointly. It was almost immediate.” Both Abramson and Haskins will pursue debate, respectively at Emory and UGA. They find that debate positively influenced their academic and personal life by improving their public speaking skills and writing. “There’s been times where I’ve had to go with my dad to meet important business leaders or congressmen and I have no idea what to say, but [I] just strike up a conversation,” said Haskins. “Thinking on your feet and being able to converse better with people is a skill that debate has allowed me to do.” Abramson finds that events of his daily life constantly coincide with his accomplishments in debate. “Debate spills over a lot into real life because a lot of things you learn in terms of knowledge are applicable regularly,” said Abramson. “A lot of things you have to learn, like how to structure argument, helps with planning where you’re going to go, arguing if you’re going to the movies versus going to Six Flags.” Though they will pursue diverging paths at the end of senior year, both guys reminiscence on the great partnership they’ve shared over the course of two years. While at certain times they’ve competed solo or with other partners because of emergencies, the duo admits they share a certain special connection, thanks to the long hours and the many memories. “I feel like partnerships can almost get into a groove sometimes when you find something that works,” said Haskins. “When two people click together.” ∆

Ms. Maggie Berthiaume

Nija Packer ‘18

AARON BROWN / The Entreprenuer Since second grade, he’s run Tin Toy Arcade, a profitable retro toy web store. by Nija Packer

he website for Tin Toy Arcade, an online retailer of retro robots, wind-up toys, rockets and a host of other knick knacks and gadgets greets potential customers with the short but effective slogan – “Classic Retro Fun.” The site is organized into various menus, allowing users to tailor their shopping experience to fit their immediate needs and desires, whether they’re looking for “Classic flying toys” or “Tin toys made in Germany.” A few clicks through the site will reveal that there are thousands of unique products and dozens of different categories for them. At first glance, Tin Toy Arcade appears to be a major retailer with huge warehouses and numerous employees, comparable to a more niche Toys “R” Us. However, towards the bottom of the page under “Information” is a link that reads “Aaron’s story,” a hint that the business’s scale isn’t quite as large as it seems. The majority of Tin Toy Arcade’s customers don’t know that the business is owned and run by a senior in high school named Aaron Brown ‘17, which is by design. “Originally when I started the business, I kept it a secret that I ran it. I played it like I’m this big company, and if you go to my

website it kind of looks like Walmart [or] Amazon, so you’d think we’re huge,” said Brown. The business is actually quite small, with a whopping total of seven employees. “It’s my mom, my dad, my aunt [and] my best friend’s mom mostly doing everything, and we have a few people in the warehouse who are part timers in college. It’s run by a small family.” At 18 years old, Brown’s been running Tin Toy Arcade for nearly 11 years. At seven years old, he had already started his own inventory of the retro toys, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. The idea to start a business with his collection came to him during a family trip to Japan. “We went to some of the museums in Japan because they have some of the best toys in the world [there]. I loved these toys, [and] they don’t have them in Toys “R” Us or Walmart or Target,” said Brown. The toys were wind-up metal robots, manufactured in the early 1900s throughout the 60s, and had been discontinued. “I heard all my family saying, ‘They don’t make them like they

used to,’ but they do. They use the same presses, the same paint, the same colors, and I just had to find the factories that have the presses and ask for them to be made again. So now I import them from China, Japan, Germany [and] India,” said Brown. A business that started with around 40 or 50 tin toys in a box sitting in a second grader’s living room quickly expanded into a full-fledged operation, garnering more and more customers. “I kept buying more toys and selling more toys, and [the] volume and rate that I was selling was increasing constantly. Given that I was in second grade, I had little to no idea what I was doing,” he said. In addition to his youth and inexperience, Brown was exploring uncharted territory. Most of the online-retail giants that have become multi-million dollar companies didn’t even exist. “At the time, there weren’t really any websites for stores. There was, I guess, eBay, I think Toys “R” Us had a website, but Amazon didn’t exist. They were just starting. So we said hey, maybe we can do this and be some of the first to jump on board,” he said. The decision to create the site turned out to be a profitable move – Tin Toy

Arcade became a great success. Brown, helped in part by his parents, was in charge of everything, from taking pictures for the website to answering company emails. He learned the tricks of the trade and gained entrepreneurial skills early on, so when the 2008 economic recession hit, Brown knew the possible impact it would have on sales. “Going into 2008 with the recession, that was horrifying. As I [saw] my dad’s business tank, I was expecting mine to do the same, but apparently people love toys enough and find that toys are something of happiness and joy, so they continued buying them. My sales grew through the recession, which was fantastic,” he said. The economic crisis also resulted in Brown’s parents quitting their jobs to work for Tin Toy Arcade full time. With that experience and years of practice under his belt, Brown is a seasoned entrepreneurial veteran. His success has caught the attention of the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Wall Street Journal and even the White House. “The President ordered toys from us. I was pretty excited about that. It was our fourth year of operation, [and] I was 10 or 11. It was the 25th anniversary of the moon landing. They ordered the little rocket ships that no one has anymore except me, [and]

they used it as the centerpiece for all the tables at [their] banquet, and the astronauts stole the rockets and robots that we sold them. Their flight to the moon inspired the toys, and later on they stole my toys from the White House,” he said. While being an entrepreneur affords Brown rewarding moments, it also makes keeping up with school work more of a challenge. There are usually a few dozen sales on the average day, and the business slows in the summer. However, during the holiday season, business explodes, and there are hundreds of orders coming in daily. Because this frenzy happens around exam time every year, Brown adopted a unique review schedule. “I don’t really study for exams during exam season – I study way in advance. In October I finish studying, and I’ve studied ahead the questions that the teachers are gonna ask of us, [and] I review it a little every night,” he said. Brown also finds time for other in-school activities, such as singing in the choir and serving as a captain on the Science Olympiad team, which he led to victory at the Georgia Tech tournament this year. “He took control. He was the leader. He made my life really easy. I didn’t have to do

Nija Packer ‘18 anything, I just sat back and said, ‘Aaron, here’s our job. Have at it,’” said Dr. Stephen Clark, the coach of the Science Olympiad team and Brown’s former physics teacher. “He’s able to manage his time, and can keep many things going at [once]. I was amazed at how he could do that.” Along with Science Olympiad, Brown can add beekeeper and accordion player to his list of hobbies. The list doesn’t stop there, however. “I have other crazy things I do. All pretty strange things, all a little bit outdated,” Brown said. “Everything you expect from [the] 1940s, I do.” Above all, a key motivator in Brown’s life is happiness. His passion and dedication is apparent to both his peers and teachers. “Aaron tries everyday to make sure that everybody around him is as happy as they can be. He also works hours to make sure that his work is complete and [he is] prepared for whatever he needs to do in the next few days,” said Brown’s close friend, Brayden Saykaly ‘17. In the classroom, Brown exhibits a similar passion and drive that he has for his business. His economics teacher, Mr. Charles Bryant, noted the insight that Brown brought to the class as a result of Tin

Toy Arcade, and his commitment to his work. “[Aaron is] very focused. Very dedicated. What I really like about Aaron is that he puts a lot of thought into what he wants the result to be and then thinks very hard about how to best achieve that result,” said Bryant. The principles Brown uses when operating his business, which is built on products that give joy and amusement to others, echo this quality. “I find [that] what makes me happy in the warehouse is good organization, which makes my employees happy. Then because I make more money, I can pay them better, and then they’re even happier. And I’m happier because I get to see them happy, and I’m [also] playing with toys, so generally everything’s happy,” he said. This desire to make others happy is what Brown ultimately credits Tin Toy Arcade’s success to. “If you’re trying to go for the money, it’s not going to work. I’ve never done it for the money. I love the toys, and I want to keep the toys alive. I say, ‘What can make people happy?’ and I do that. Because its intent is positive and good, it stays alive.” ∆

“Aaron tries everyday to make sure that everybody around him is as happy as they can be.” Brayden Saykaly

wills

last

and

testaments

The Class of 2017 leaves things and thoughts behind for the underclassmen.

Breona Fennie / I do hereby bequeath my napping place, on the bench, in the atrium of the new building to Destiny DeWitt

Grace Englert / I do hereby bequeath my running spikes and my RipStik Casterboard to Katie Dorton.

Mackenzie Miller / I do hereby bequeath baking for Mr. Cunningham to Morgan Miller.

Sehaj Singh Rekhi / I do hereby bequeath the Ultimate Frisbee team to Shaylan Patel and Alex Rand.

We, the Senior Swimmers / We hereby bequeath leaving five seconds apart, the swim team set of Cards Against Humanity, and the nasty mats to the future varsity girls swim team.

Ansley Bird / I do hereby bequeath the Brownie Baking Queenship to Maddie Ledet.

Mikalya Boyd / I do hereby bequeath my spot in lane 3 to Asha Gorjala and Cate Jones. Ry lee J a h n / I do hereby bequeath terrorizing freshmen in orchestra to Mansi Patel. Katya Hernandez-Pol / I do hereby bequeath Garden Club to Emma Carmical. S. (Marco) Moreno / I do hereby bequeath my canvasses I don’t take home to Alana Pearson and Rachel Snapperman, Dr. Nic’s corner to Bridget Idzik, and Ms. Hewett’s Creative Writing class to all who come after me. Aasha Patel / I do hereby bequeath Woodward Academy Dance Ensemble (fun mom) Captain to Rebecca Hart. Benji Reich / I do hereby bequeath my heart, soul, and paternal counseing to Hans Meyer, my kruti and Dina Auntie to Seeta Patel. Garrett Oberkfell / I do hereby bequeath the Yad b’Yad legacy to AR, BF, EB, SD, and SK. Aaron Brown and Madeline Sieglinger / We do hereby bequeath the Science Olympiad team to Sydney Hallas.

Alex Bender / I do hereby bequeath TOUPS to Joe Sigman; an unbroken arm to Ethan Patel; my Jazzaroni to Armund Fernandeez, Davis Balser, and Ben Goodley; all rights and properties of G Knight from Excalibur 6 to Jack Teske; my swag to Jacob Leader; my box of moldy fudge to Hannah Coetzer; my Torah to Sam Berman; my “Walking Dead Comic Book Collection to Joe Sigman; and my Blue Honda Odyssey to Jacob Leader. Avni Kulkarni / I do hereby bequeath my favorite yearbook laptop to Jordan Herrell ‘18. Sierra Payton / I do hereby bequeath lacrosse manager to Carly Warren and the art club to Kaya Jean Roland. Sam Seidel / I do hereby bequeath my spirit animal and cross country karaoke traditions to the Coach Timothy Hamling (may the spirit animal in you forever live on), my yearbook shenanigans to QP, the swirly chair in ham dog’s room to Anna Lee so she can spin and twirl while creating her artful masterpieces, west commons to the freshmen, the fact that the cafeteria’s food and salad bar is 1000 times better to the upperclassmen, “Come on Eileen” and “Remix to Ignition” to Slaughter, my odd satires to Mrs. Hewett, and to you Woodward Academy I bequeath the knowledge of knowing that I am not who I am today without your extensive assemblies, spring flings, homecoming week, and cottage to new building transformation. Thanks and

see ya! Chase Calhoun / I do hereby bequeath (to all the Underclassmen) enjoy your time at Woodward. Pretty soon, you’ll look up and you’ll be graduating and leaving WA. There is no other place like it, and it’s easy to lose sight of how special it is. Do not waste the opportunity to come to this school. Know that nothing that Woodward gives us are we entitled to, they GIVE everything to us. Thank your parents, your teachers, and any Woodward staff member you see daily for everything they do to prepare you to go out into the world. Get everything you can out of your time at Woodward! Sari Bircoll / I do hereby bequeath my spot in Mr. Sommers’ heart to CR; Yearbook stress and memories to RH, QP, SG; The varsity girls swim team to ML and SH. Katie Denson / I do hereby bequeath painting skirts and pants to Anna Lee. Danielle Maner / I do hereby bequeath the unity club to Nija Packer and Danielle Young. Y’all will forever be my babies and this club is my baby, and I trust you all to lead it well!! Nia Garama / I do hereby bequeath my love for Taqueria to Alisha Kongara and my amazing talents in the pool to Maddie Ledet. Joshua Harrison / I do hereby bequeath my soccer sauce to Tej. Garnet Brown / I do hereby bequeath team pep talks and key lime pie cookie making to AVL, the kids I babysit and the OTP life to KJR. Marcus Lin / I do hereby bequeath my locker to Molly Ross.

illy uperlatives

The results from the annual SGA Silly Superlative election. Drawings by Julia Du ‘19.

∆ Most likely to talk their way out of a speeding ticket... Chase Calhoun Reagan Sands

∆ Most likey to wind up on the evening news... Dafina Kaleshi Jack Hickey

∆ Most likey to get married in Vegas... Anthony Ptacek Alex Kostyshen

∆ Most solo senior skip days... Laura Strianese | Shelby Etkind Daniel Farzasneh

∆ Most likely to be wrongfully accused of a crime... ∆ Biggest threat to pedestrians... Leila Agbogu Charlie Stewart

∆ Most likey to be late to graduation... Sam Katz Erin Edwards

∆ Most likey to be a reality TV star.. Ryan Glover Margaret Ladisic

Nia Garama Marcus Lin

∆ Most likely to be in a Pantene commercial... Garnet Brown Weston Dunkel

∆ Most likey to come back to teach at Woodward... Maya Foreman Jutin Berger

ords of isdom

Parents and loved ones leave messages for the Class of 2017. Maya Foreman - “God has planted greatness in you. Let today be the beginning of a great adventure as you step into the gifts he’s given you.” We are so Proud of You Maya! We Love You! Mommy, Daddy and Morgan ‘13 Ansley Bird - We are so proud of you and the wonderful person you have become. You can do whatever you put your mind to. We can’t wait to see what’s in store for your future. Love, Mom & Dad Kamau Robinson - Kamau, I am so proud of you! You are an amazing human being and a wonderful son. I am so excited to see what is next in your life! Stay humble, and God will take care of the rest. Love, Mom.

Love, Mom, Dad, Madison and Reese Chandler Dorsey - Meditate and stand on the promises of God daily. You are more than a conqueror. Susannah Cole - Our goal was to raise you to be a woman that we are proud of, a woman that you are proud to be, and a woman that Jesus would call His own. You have exceeded our expectations, and we love you so much. Keep striving toward the goal. Love Mom and Dad Angela Joy Neal - “Believe you can and you’re half way there.” – Theodore Roosevelt We are so proud of you. Your journey is just beginning and you are off to a great start.

Crawford Kennedy - Crawford, Never doubt how much you can achieve, how kind you can be, how much fun you can have, how resilient you are, and especially, how much you are loved! It is your turn to take on the world. Love, Mom and Dad

Morgan Croft - Try to get enough sleep. Really. Most people don’t and it’s not a good thing.

Garrett Oberkfell - Garrett, We are so proud of you and the man you have become. Since you were born, you have been the sweetest, kindest and most easy going kid. No matter what happens in life, never lose that wonderful part of you. We are so excited to see all the great things you will do as you start the next chapter of your life. Most of all, have fun, follow your dreams and enjoy these years because they fly by too fast. “I love you forever, I’ll like you for always, As long as I’m living my baby you’ll be.”

Matthew Gulley - We are very excited to see where your journey goes in the next chapter of your life. Remember your compass, live with integrity, and make good choices. Love, Mama and Dad Robert Mitchell III - Learn from your successes and failures; both are equally important in this journey of life.

Sam Eichel - We are so proud of you and all your hard work has paid off. We love you, Mommy, Daddy, Matthew, Max and Drew. Go Sam!

Grace Hensel - Grace, I could not be more proud of the young woman you have become. You are strong, passionate, kind and intelligent all rolled into one! There is no limit to what you can accomplish if you make up your mind to do it. As you go out into the world to chase your dreams, know that we will always be there to love and support you on your way. Love, Mom.

Max Abramson - Max we love you so much! Its a privilege to be your parents! Keep shining Mom and Dad Moulica Reddy - Moulica, go confidently towards your dreams. Keep learning, growing and realizing the best in yourself. This is the beginning of a future filled with happiness and success. We are so very proud of you and of all your hard work. Love, Mom, Dad and Pranav.

Believe and remember to enjoy the scenery. Love Mom, Dad and Aaron Samantha Seidel - Samantha we love you for all that you are, for all you have been and all you’re yet to be. We wish for you that your life becomes all that you want it to be. Walk through the world with confidence, follow your dreams, live, learn, love, laugh, listen to your heart, and never loose track of who you are. TE AMAMOS Mama, Papa y Max Grant Sullivan - You have grown to be an amazing young man, and I will always be proud of you. Continue to do your best and enjoy life. Love Auntie L

Braeden Saykaly - “You can’t control how other people receive your energy. Anything you say or do gets filtered through the lens of whatever personal stuff they are going through at the moment. Which is not about you. Just keep doing your thing with as much integrity and love as possible.” --Nanea Hoffman XOXO, Mom William Valdon Smith III - “Listen to your heart, trust your inner instincts and let God be your guide. You have the foundation, the strength, and the heart to follow your dreams and your passion. Go confidently, in the direction of your dreams.” – Henry David Thoureau. Always know we believe in you and we love you to the moon and back! Mom, Dad, Ann Darby, Lucy Banks, & Lilly Lillian Lea Smith - “Real joy comes not from ease or riches or from the praise of men,

but from doing something worthwhile.” – Sir Wilfred Grenfell Continue to be true to yourself and enjoy all the wonders of this world God has created. You continue to inspire us with your curiosity for life and we look forward to watching you explore and achieving your dreams. Always know we believe in you and we love you to the moon and back! Mom, Dad, Ann Darby, Lucy Banks, & Valdon

*be handsome *be carefree *be creative *be a problem solver *be helpful *be thoughtful *be polite *be handy and you will BE fine!

Leila Agbogu - Our Dear Leila, as you embark on your journey, you must remember to believe in yourself ! Remember, you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it. You’ve been given so many great opportunities; now is the time to take advantage of them. Be confident! The sky shouldn’t even be your limit, go beyond it! Love, Mom & Dad

Lauren Graham - I am so proud of you. You have grown into a beautiful young lady. My advice to you is to strive for excellence and you will excel in life. You are the GREATEST gift that God has given me. As you begin your new journey, don’t allow the world to define you. “For I know the plans I have for you” Jeremiah 29:11

Daly Gryboski - We are so proud of you and excited for your new adventure. Live every moment, love beyond words and laugh everyday. Love Mom & Dad Sierra Payton - Remember all the important things I taught you! Study hard and have fun and you’ll work through your fears! Love, Mom Xavion Fleetwood - “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” - Dr. Seuss Xavion, being the youngest, you have always had to carve your own path and forge your own way. Continue to be true to yourself and the world will be yours to conquer. We are so proud of you and we love you. Mommy, Daddy and Briana Chase Calhoun - We are so impressed by the young man that you have become. Go forth into the world. Remember who you are, love God and others, be the best that you can be, take advantage of every opportunity, and call home often because we will be missing you! Love Mom and Dad Wyatt Atchison - just be you *be kind *be empathetic *be intelligent

Jackson Linginfelter - We are so proud of the young man you have become and can’t wait to see what God has in store for you!! Remember, it only takes as spark to get a fire going! We love you!! Mom and Dad Aaron Brown - Klaatu Barada Nikto! from Gort and your robot employees. Congratulations Aaron on your graduation. Now, go and save the earth! Love Mom, Dad and Lilliput Will Muscarella - You have many wonderful qualities. You are kind, curious and helpful. You are quick-to-learn and forever busy on a project. Remember to keep a healthy balance in life. Share that kindness to touch the lives of other people. Use your curiosity for good purpose. Watch around you to notice when others need help. Be humble about your accomplishments. When success comes easily, aim higher. Dream big. We know you’ll go far. Love, Mom and Dad Anuja Palacharla - Anuja, we are blessed to have you, your love and compassion towards family and friends, responsibility to your duties always amazes me. As proud parents, we encourage you to keep growing and achieve your goals and be a role model to your sister. Congratulations on all your achievements. Hannah Chastain - Hannah, we are so proud of all that you have accomplished in your 18

years. As you begin your journey through life, lead by example, be true to your self, set your sights high and success will be yours. Love, Mom, Dad, Wesley Will Rolston - We’re proud of the young man you’ve become, and are excited about your future. We hope your life will be filled with love, learning, friends and laughter. Remember: Chocolate cake will give you a new perspective on most any problem! Love, Mom and Dad Shelby Fishman - Shelby, words cannot describe how proud of you we are. Your dedication, hard work and perseverance has certainly paid off. We are so excited to see what your future holds! Love you! Mom, Dad and Sam ‘13 Evan Strat - “Go beyond what is possible and discover the impossible.” Love you, Mom, Dad, Randy, and Ryan. Benjamin Woollcott - We are so proud of your accomplishments at Woodward inside and outside of the classroom and the fine young man that you are. Bundle up and get ready for Colby! During the next four years, squeeze all you can out of your college experience. A top flight liberal arts education will give you the skills for a lifetime of success. Challenge yourself but have fun doing it. Seek out new friendships while nuturing those that you were close to at Woodward. We love you! Daddy and Susan Avni Kulkarni - “ Too infinity and beyond” Congratulations Avni! We’re so proud of you! Share your sparkle wherever you go! Mom, Dad, Aneesh and Anay Corey Davis Earwood - You should be so proud of your accomplishments and memories made at WA! We sure are. Now it’s time to build on the foundation you’ve created and experience a new world of opportunities! “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (We Love You!! Mom and Dad) Wilson Wolfe - We are so very proud of you

and the young man you have become. I know you can accomplish anything you set your mind to and look forward to your future. Never let a stumble be the end of your journey. Love Mommy, Jeff and Scooby “I usually take the Ferrari.”- Sonny Crockett Sierra Henry - Enjoy every minute of the journey. Don’t fret the forks in the road as each direction will lead to new and exciting paths you never imagined. We are so incredibly proud of the person you have become. Love you, Mom & Dad Joshua Harrison - So proud of you Joshua may all your dreams come true. Love Grandma Nunn. Congratulations grandson, we’re so proud of you. Love Granny & Papa Harrison. Continue to reach for the stars - well done! Love Mom & Dad. Kennedy Lollis - If you always do the right thing, you will never have to look over your shoulder. If you do it right the first time, you won’t have to do it again. Sara Grace Carmical - We are so proud of you Sara Grace! You have everything you need to succeed in life - your faith, positive attitude, and determination. Keep spreading your beautiful love and light wherever you go. Your future is bright! We love you, Mom, Tommy, and Emma Justin Berger - Like a train gathering momentum, life accelerates. You have the opportunity while you are young to lay down tracks which are strong and headed in the right direction. You have been given incredible tools and have many natural skills, so build your track wisely. We can’t wait to see where you go. Love Mom and Dad Mary Grace Lesesne - Proud of you, exciting life ahead and we have all the faith in you. Adelaide Wilson - We couldn’t be more proud of you Adelaide on your accomplishments at Woodward and your growth over the past four years. We can’t wait

to see what you do at UGA. We love you! Mom, Dad & James Weston Dunkel - The world is waiting. Go get it! So proud of all you have done and can’t wait to see what you accomplish next. Much Love, Mom,Dad, Will, Tess Wyatt, Mimi and Pop Pop. Morgan Brinson - I hope your dreams take you... to the corners of your smiles, to the highest of your hopes, to the windows of your opportunities, and to the most special places your heart has ever known. May God continue to bless you on your journey. Love you always, Dad, Mom and Taylor Gillian Jewell - We are very proud of your persistence and accomplishments at Woodward. Keep up the good work in college. Love, Dad, Mom, and Jack Jade Robertson - We are all so very proud of you and your amazing accomplishments! We know that this is just the beginning and that you will go on to do even more amazing things. Trust in the LORD and always remember to “be bold enough to use your voice, brave enough to listen to your heart, and strong enough to live the life you have always imagined.” We love you, no matter what! Mommy, Daddy, JB, Gabby and your entire family. Benjamin Woolcott - Benjo, as you leave one great experience and move to your exciting and new adventure, remember the wise words of one of our favorite characters, Yoda: “Do. Or do not. There is not try.” “You will find only what you bring in.” and my favorite, “Many of the truths we cling to depend on our point of view.” Remember always commit, bring something to the table and be open to new ideas. Love, Susan Robert Bowden III - “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Brooke Nicole Jones - We are so proud of the young lady you have become. Set your aspirations high and know that you can accomplish all things through Christ who strengthens you. We pray God will continue to bless you as you pursue your future endeavors. Remain focused and know God’s delay isn’t a denial - but rather He is preparing you. Love, Mom and Dad Wilson Wolfe - Study hard. Make a lot of new friends. Stay true to yourself. Love Always, Kris. Miles Whitmore - We are so proud of you marching to your own drum. Remember, if you fail to plan, you plan to fail! Grant Sullivan - May you always be strong and bold. May your dreams be big and your worries small. May you always walk with confidence, be of good character and remain true to self. We are so proud of you. Keep moving forward. Love Mom, Dad and Chelsea ‘08 Sarah McMillian - We are so proud of the young lady that you have become. You have learned to work hard and still have fun along the way. Remember that no goal is too high if you climb with care and confidence. We love you and can’t wait to see the life that you will lead. Always believe in yourself and continue to do your best. Mom and Dad. Noah Carlyle - “Greet the future with anticipation. Dream big and work hard. Remember your roots, manners and the way home.” We are so proud of all your accomplishments and even more importantly the incredible young man you have become. All our love, Mom, Dad & Maizey Royce Cottingham - Your appetite for adventure, a strong empathy for others and your ability to chart your own course regardless of prevailing winds, speak volumes of your character...we’re so proud of you! Who you are will take you far and know (as I’m sure you

do) that we are ALWAYS here for you. We can’t wait to see how the next chapter of your journey unfolds and remember, “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift, which is why we call it the present.” Be mindful to be present in all you do, patient with yourself and with others, and stay open to life’s opportunity. Love you, Mom & Dad Sierra Payton - Sierra always be firm in your faith and true to yourself. Love Dad Lauren Graham - Remember your’re the head and not the tail. You have a true purpose in life. Don’t get caught up in material things. I love you and I’m here for you. Mommy Meredith von Kleydorff - We love you Meredith! We’re so proud of you and the strong young woman you have become. We’re certain the future holds great things for you! Daddy, Mommy & Heidi Mary Grace Lesesne - You are capable, you are worthy, and you are loved... Julia Gianneschi - Success is always within reach if you are willing to work hard. Remember as you journey through life to always be true to yourself. We couldn’t be more proud of you! Love, Mom and Dad Anthony Ptacek - There is no set plan for your future, it’s yours to create! Take risks, be bold, be resilient! I can’t wait to see what lies ahead for you! Love, Mom Be honest. Be fair. Be kind. Be generous with your time and heart. Be disciplined. All the best, Billy. Natasha Cooper - It’s not what you do that makes you great, it’s who you are; Shoot for the moon! Even if you miss...you’ll land among the stars! Your future is what you make of it. Never compromise your ideals in attaining your goals! Ohana means family, family means nobody gets

left behind. Or forgotten. We love you, JoJo & Ted Nicholas Thomson - “Attack each day with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind.” - Jim Harbaugh. Excited to see where all your dreams take you! Love Mom, Dad and Riley Madeline Sieglinger - There is no limit to what you can and will accomplish. Follow your dreams and have fun every step of the way!! Love, Mom Chase Stringer - We are so proud of the young man that you have become. You are so kind and incredibly thoughtful. We will miss our talks that we would have at dinner. We can’t wait to see where this journey will take you. Enjoy this next chapter in your life! Roll Tide! We love you! Mom and Dad Tucker Alexander - You make us proud every day! Remember this: “Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” We love you, Mom and Dad Carter Haydon - Be a leader and be kind to others. Say your prayers. Go to class. We are proud of you and your accomplishments. Love, Your family Ben Woollcott - Always stop at lemonade stands, brush your teeth, and be brilliant! Love, Mommy, Jim, Violet and Nikolai Congratulations to my favorite person in the world! I love you very much and am so proud of you! May Collins Maggie Sutton - We are so proud of you! Your transition into adulthood will be filled with many diversions - ignore them and stay focused on your goals in life and stay true to who you are and where you come from. You are a beautiful person inside and out and we love you and will miss you so much! Love Mom & Dad Molly Echols - Congratulations on your all

your accomplishments! Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think and loved more than you will ever know. We love you, Mom and Dad Sammie Hasen - “Dream until your dreams come true.” - Aerosmith “Nobody knows how the story ends; live the day, do what you can this is only where it begins.” - The Lumineers Ryan Capo - You can achieve anything you put your mind to. Alex Bender - I hope you continue to bring joy and fun and friendship to the fellow travelers in your life, because, as the poet wrote: it’s such a long long time to be gone, and a short time to be there. Enjoy every day! Love always, Dad. Griffin Long - Go into the world and do well. But more importantly, go into the world and do good. We love you and are so proud of you! Love, Mom and Dad Nia Renee Brown - From Boston to Raleigh to Atlanta, St. Mary of the Hills to Ravenscroft to Woodward Academy, your talent and twinkle have always set you apart. In recent years you’ve now reached another gear, applying an insistent work ethic that is now engrained in who you are and will carry you to great heights in life. We are SO proud of what The Lord has done and continues to do in your life. Remember…No one ever drowned in their own sweat. Keep Shining! Love, Mom & Dad Makenli Reace Forrest - Remember, you are not in competition with anyone else. It doesn’t matter how many people do what you do. No one can do it like YOU. Love Mom and Dad Ali Abdullah - “Everybody makes mistakes. Never regret them but correct them. There is no such thing as a perfect world or a perfect life.” - Aga Khan

Shelby Etkind - Never compare yourself to others. It’s a waste of energy. You are unique and have your own gifts to offer the world. We are so proud of you, all you’ve done and all you will do. We love you. Dad, Michelle, Sam, Sara and Scott Caela Donald - True change takes place at the intersection of persistence and imagination. Safe travels on your journey to greatness. We are so proud of you! Love, Mom and Dad Nia Garama - We can’t believe you are all grown up and heading off to college in a few short months. We could not be prouder of the way you have handled your life so far. Don’t ever give up trying to do what you set out to do. You will be amazed at what you can accomplish with a positive attitude and a plan. Life is but a dream. Love Mom, Dad & Taisen Molly Echols - We are so proud of you and all of your accomplishments while at Woodward Academy and we know you will continue to do great things. Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you thing and loved more than you know. We lover you!!!! Mom and Dad Thomas Wheeler - “ame futte chi katamaru” “Baka ga atte riko ga hikitatsu.” We love you! Mom & Dad Carson Collins - Go forward in your life with an adventurous spirit, a kind heart, and an inquisitive mind. Never, ever doubt how much you are loved. Mom, Dad, Max & Muffin Sari Bircoll - College is an adventure and you are more than ready! Challenge yourself and be open to new opportunities. Study what will be useful and what’s interesting to you, but make sure you take an art history class. Enjoy new people, new surroundings, new situations and everything exciting that college has to offer. And above all else, stay the kind, thoughtful, beautiful person that you already are!

Kamryn Scocos - We’re so very proud of you and your accomplishments. Stay true to yourself, kind to others and let God be your guide. We love you. Dad, Mom & Brooke. Erica Abraham - This day has come much faster than we expected. You continue to make us proud. As you go forward in life, you may encounter challenges, but just remember that you are capable of achieving greatness and being successful in all you do. Hold on to God’s hand and never be afraid to ask for help. We love you Dad, Mom and Alyssa We are so proud of you. There is no limit on what you can do. Continue to shoot for the moon. We love you, Gram and Poppi. It has been one of the great joys of our lives to watch you grow into such a wonderful young woman. You continue to make us very proud grandparents. As you go forward in life know that we will always be praying for you and there for you. Love Grandma and Grandpa. Congratulations on your high school graduation. So proud of you! We wish you much success in your college years and beyond. Love Aunt Sheryl, Uncle Vernon, Vernard and Garrison. You are more intelligent, capable, inspiring and persistent than even you know! We are proud of the woman you are, and excited about this next chapter in your life! Love, peace and power. Love your Godparents ~ Tonya and Kevin Bradford. Congratulations on your graduation and all your accomplishments!! I am so proud of you, but definitely not surprised. Love Aunt Katie. Blake Burns - Congratulations on this huge accomplishment! We are so proud of you and the man you have become! We can’t wait to see what your future holds at Alabama. Always shoot for the stars and remember that if you

believe ... you can achieve! Roll Tide!! Congratulations Blake! We’re so proud of you! It’s hard to believe you’ll be heading to college soon. Remember to set your sights on being a man of character and everything else will fall into place. I love you son. -Dad I am so very proud of you, my sweet, intelligent, smart, amazing nephew. You have accomplished and achieved so much thus far. I look forward and am so excited to see where this next exciting adventure will take you. Remember...CHERISH every moment. You CAN and WILL succeed at anything when you keep your eye on the prize. I love you to the moon...the stars...INFINITY x INFINITY! Now with that said...ROLL TIDE!!!!!!! Love you. Aunt Karen George Stradtman - We are proud of you! Love, Mom, Dad and Cullen “Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 Mariah Sanders - We are so proud of you and all of your hard work. Love you to the moon and back. Mom, Dad and Arielle Tyler Valastro - “I’m a greater believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it” - Thomas Jefferson Lucy Outtrim - “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You’re on your own, and you know what you know. And you are a girl who’ll decide where to go.” - Dr Seuss Love your parents, Mark & Sharyn Outtrim Alex Bender - You were and still are a real knucklehead, but you’ve come a long way and I’m very proud of all that you’ve accomplished during your time at Woodward. I know you’ll have great success in college and beyond. Just keep being yourself. You’re one of a kind and I couldn’t have asked for a better brother and friend. Love, Brendan.

Ashley Raymer - Congratulations Ashley! We are so proud of you and the accomplishments you have achieved since the day your were born! From your first steps to your walk to receive your high school diploma, we have enjoyed the ride! We can’t wait to see what do next! Love, Mom and Dad JaKai Marie Grooms - “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.” - John 3:18. Love, Mom and Dad. Erin L. Malone - Great adventures are ahead for you. Be true to Erin. Be happy. Mom and Dad love you. Jalen Polk - I’m so incredibly proud of your accomplishments. You have become a fine young man, who’s smart, humble, compassionate, and embodies the core principles of integrity. Always stay to yourself and never stop dreaming big. I love you. Mom

help others and remember your values. Carpe diem! We love you, Mom, Dad, Jason, & Ryan Martin Cristobal Rodriguez - Dios es muy grande Delayna Willie - Always be true to yourself. You were created for greatness and you’re impact in this world will be phenomenal!!! Mom and Dad. Gibran Essa - Proud of you for what you have accomplished to date. We expect you will continue to change the world with your hard work and dedication, while brightening it with your smile. We are merely observers as you move through space and time. Love Amma/Abbu

Darien Wiggins - We love you and are incredibly proud of you. Your work ethic and determination have not gone unnoticed and will serve you well in the next phase of your life. Take this moment to reflect on your Woodward experience and celebrate your accomplishments. You deserve it. Joshua Seeb - We are so proud of you and excited for you as you embark on the next stage of your life! Our advice to you is this: be open to discovering and pursuing your passions, be flexible and adaptable, welcome new friendships, listen and try to understand the perspectives that others have on the world,

Brianna Mosley - We’re so proud of you and all that you’ve accomplished in such an elegant, loving, happy, and courageous manner at Woodward. You’re young and as you know you have your entire future ahead of you. We can’t wait to see what paths you choose and always remember in His timing all things are made perfect! Love, Mom, Nini, Pop-pop, & Chino Adair Sawyer - We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see what you do with the gifts God has given you!! Love, Mom and Dad Benjamin Reich - We are so proud of you. Follow your love of and passion for history, languages, cultures, people and humor. Share your gifts. You will love NYU. Mazal tov! We love you ttfgauab, Mom, Dad, Jacob and Micah

Mikayla Elise Boyd - Dear Mikayla: Thank you for 17 wonderful years. Your family members are very proud of all your accomplishments. As you embark on a new chapter stay focused and keep God first in all you do. We love you. Dean Reamsnyder - “To succeed in life, you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone.” - Reba McEntire

Jack Hickey - Always be a leader and not a follower, make good decisions, and always be grateful. We are very proud of you and love you so much. Mom and Dad

Sehaj Singh Rekhi - We your parents pray that may you always remember the almighty at every step of your life and seek his blessings. Neal Allen - Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than the ones you did do. So explore, dream, discover!

Payton Christensen - “Never measure yourself by what you have accomplished, but by what you should have accomplished with your ability. Success comes from knowing that you did your best to be best that you are capable of becoming”. John Wooden Mom, Dad, Reid and Abbey couldn’t be more proud of you and all that you have accomplished. Stay true to yourself. Achieve Great Things at Auburn!!!! Will Stull - “LIFE BEGINS AT THE END OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE. GO FO IT!” We love you more than you can imagine and are so very, very proud of all that you have accomplished. Mom, Dad and Drew

Caroline Culver - Follow your dreams and with hard work and determination you can make them come true. Only your best will do! Andrew & Katie Pressgrove - Every day is a gift.