Delphian Magazine 2023

The Delphian

ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX SCHOOL

Our Mission

On

Turning

Congratulations, Class of 2023!

End of Year Awards

A Year in Review: Special Events

Class of 2019 College Matriculation

Alumni Spotlight: Clifton Gillock ’03 and Kristin Brown ’08

Front Cover: Emma Bryant ’33

Page 4 (clockwise): Alyssa Shannon ’26; Chloe Cokinos ’24; Ethan Ou ’24 and Charlie Tsai ’31; Jessica (Wimberly) Solcher ’10, Clementine Gaunt ’30 and Henry Cancienne ’30; Eden Ingraham ’24; Christine Moraczewski, Sally Douglas and Susan Grygiel; Campbell Katz ’23

LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear AOS Community,

What a year! We celebrated every AOS tradition to its fullest and did it all with the priority of Serving Others Together . Throughout the 2022-2023 school year, our faculty, staff, and students partnered with a number of nonprofit organizations to complete service projects reaching far beyond the walls of AOS.

We collected school supplies for BEAR Houston, hosted a sock and shoe drive for Sole Loved, donated books to House of Tiny Treasures, made book totes for the Nehemiah Center, planted trees with Trees for Houston, created treat bags for K-9 Angels, assembled snack packs for SEARCH Homeless Services, prepared lunch bags for Kids’ Meals, and made no-sew blankets for Project Linus — just to name a few! Seventh- and eighth-grade students traveled to the Houston Food Bank to lend a helping hand, and just a couple days later, our entire faculty and staff did the same, making an incredible impact as they packed over 9,000 meals in one afternoon!

This year-long initiative exceeded expectations and honored the values we work hard to instill in our students. Agape, especially, is always at the center of what we do at AOS, and the priority of Serving Others Together allowed us to be even more intentional about spreading God’s love.

For the 2023-2024 school year, our priority will be Building Empathy and Understanding Perspectives , a commitment to not only serve others with compassion, but to sincerely put ourselves in someone else’s shoes and find common ground among differences.

There really is no place like AOS, and so much is due to our community’s desire to work hard, give back, and put others first. I cannot wait to see what we learn and accomplish next year!

Dr. Samuel V. Fragomeni Head of School

Serving Others Together

FACULTY & STAFF YEARS OF SERVICE

5 Years

Amy Bento

Emily Benton

Catherine Clark

Sam Fragomeni

Heather Haas

Tomisha Johnson

Alicia McDonald

Katherine (Koinis) Monk ’01

Sarah Schultz ’00

Nafia Woods

10 Years

Ellie Lawrence

15 Years

Jose Arenas

Laura Espinal

Adam Flores

Ann-Marie Johnston

Amber (Thompson) Williams ’89

BREAKING AN ALL-TIME RECORD

40 Years

20 Years

Kelley Elliott

Angela Enyart

Zsuzsanna Reeves

25 Years

Jim Phillips

30 Years

Cindy Demeris

Angie Ramirez joined the AOS Community in 1983 as an EDC Counselor. She was so resourceful, creative, and hard working that the Head of School, Katherine Veletsos, asked her to take a two-week assignment as an assistant teacher. The very next year, she became a full-time assistant teacher. She was an assistant to Delphi, PK, and Kindergarten until she became a lead Delphi teacher in 2016. Congratulations to Angie Ramirez 40 years (and counting) of service at AOS!

Left: Angie Ramirez today and when she started at AOS in 1983 Below (left to right): Angie throughout the years

STRATEGIC PLAN

AOS adopted a strategic plan in May 2017 that laid out institutional goals.

Mission and Diversity

Reaffirm our commitment to sustaining a strong and diverse school community based on the spiritual core, traditions, and culture of the Greek Orthodox Christian faith and heritage.

2.

Campus Safety and Facilities Development

Update and refine the master plan for campus and facility improvements and additions.

1.

Communication and Community

Improve communications school-wide, internally and externally, to augment transparency while celebrating the AOS community to all current and future constituents. 3.

Evaluate the curriculum, its continuity, delivery, and effectiveness and the balance between traditional and innovative teaching. 4.

Curriculum, Teaching and Learning

5.

Faculty, Administration, & Staff Growth and Development

Recruit, retain, evaluate, and reward faculty, administration, and staff talent so that we have the best employees possible for AOS.

Financial Sustainability

Foster and grow the culture of giving at AOS to ensure future generations will benefit from the same high quality AOS experience.

Student Health/Wellness and Preparation for Life

6. 7.

Perpetuate and deepen an environment where all constituents (students, parents, and faculty/staff) recognize the importance of balance, self-advocacy, and resilience in the life of students at AOS.

Opposite Top: Amy Williams

Above (left to right): Lauren Ivan ’24, Halle Monkmeyer ’24, Julia Bumgarner ’24, Bryn Bartley ’24; Jessica (Wimberly) Solcher ’10, Theresa Caram, Amy Ailor, Moira Burgy and Sally Douglas

Left: Michael O’Leary ’28

On Target: Strategic Imperative #5

FACULTY, ADMINISTRATION, & STAFF GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

Recruit, retain, evaluate, and reward faculty, administration, and staff talent so that we have the best employees possible for AOS.

Portrait of an AOS Teacher

The Portrait of an AOS Teacher is used during the hiring process and to inform teachers' goals. This portrait was generated by AOS teachers and represents the ideal all AOS teachers strive toward. An AOS teacher: INVESTS in their classroom community by demonstrating genuine interest in the academic and social well-being of students.

ENGAGES each student’s support network of parents, faculty, and staff by actively tracking and communicating progress, celebrating success, and addressing challenges.

ENCOURAGES mutual respect and flexibility so that all students are included and treated with fairness and grace. The teacher promotes a student’s sense of belonging and security at school.

CONTRIBUTES to the life of the community of AOS by upholding school traditions, participating in community events, and engaging in service learning alongside students.

CULTIVATES a positive and accessible academic environment by planning for active, multi-sensory classroom experiences that promote critical thinking, creative problem-solving, independence, innovation, and curiosity.

COLLABORATES across disciplines and grade levels. Actively seeks opportunities to integrate cross-curricular content, partner with other teachers, and connect skills, knowledge, and themes to the real world.

VALUES others by practicing empathy, understanding, and respect towards everyone. Assumes and exhibits positive intent in all circumstances.

COMMUNICATES effectively using clear, tactful, authentic, and appropriate language with students, parents, and community members.

EMPOWERS students to understand and take responsibility for their role in the school community, the community at large, and the world.

MODELS risk-taking and lifelong learning opportunities for students and themselves through passionate, informed, organized, reflective, and authentic learning activities.

CREATES meaningful and genuine connections with students and members of the AOS community.

HONORS the spiritual foundation of AOS by embracing our Greek Orthodox roots.

Above left to right: Justine Guevarra, Kimberly Wright and Heather Haas; Lucy DiNunzio, Patricia Seller-Wolf, Lucy Barnard

Faculty, Administration, & Staff Growth and Development

In the fall of 2021, Dr. Sam Fragomeni, AOS Head of School, launched the process of building a strong growth and evaluation system for the AOS faculty. He formed and facilitated a task force which met over the course of a year. The task force is composed of senior administrators (who supervise faculty), academic coordinators, and faculty members. The AOS Growth and Evaluation program began its pilot year during the 2022-2023 school year.

The growth portion is separated from the official evaluation in order to allow the freedom for faculty to try new ideas with the ability to fail safely. The idea is that as long as faculty members meet 11 “Essential Expectations,” including engaging authentically in the growth process, they are considered in good standing on their annual evaluation. Teachers were given multiple opportunities to provide feedback and to collaborate on the "Essential Expectations" before the adoption during the pilot year.

The growth portion naturally fell in the realm of the new academic coordinators as their central role is to help teachers grow and ensure the class content and instruction is innovative, relevant, and aligned. The major tenets of the growth process are:

• Each faculty member has a growth coach and sets no more than two goals (one must be pedagogical) to work on at any given time.

• Faculty members work on these same goals until they reach them, which may take as long as an academic year or longer, depending on the goal.

• Knowledge is shared annually through multiple Celebration of Learning opportunities.

Celebration of Learning

Sharing the knowledge obtained through the growth program with other faculty members and the school community in general is critical to building a culture of growth. Teachers have the option to share their knowledge throughout the year, and an inservice day was set aside specifically to celebrate the progress made toward their goals. Faculty members opted to share their knowledge in small groups, department or division meetings, hands-on workshops, newsletters, slide presentations, and more. One teacher even presented their growth goal at a national conference over the summer. The feeling of excitement that comes with accomplishing a difficult and worthwhile task is contagious and resonates throughout the building on the days or moments that were set aside to celebrate one another’s newfound approaches to teaching and learning.

AOS ALUMNI EXCEL AT ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM ORATORICAL FESTIVAL

Introduced in 1983, the St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival, a nationwide Department of Religious Education ministry, provides Greek Orthodox teenagers the opportunity to write and talk about their faith. Participants present speeches discussing the Greek Orthodox faith and the Church. They explore and deepen their faith while honing their speech writing and public speaking skills. Parish, Metropolis, and National finalists earn monetary awards, and finalists at all three levels earn scholarships.

Each year, the Archdiocese presents five topics, and students are asked to pick one of the topics for a speech that is presented in front of judges. The three to five minute speeches are judged equally between presentation and content.

The program begins with each parish conducting its own Parish Oratorical Festival. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral (AGOC) held its Oratorical on March 5, 2023. Each parish then sends two representatives to the Metropolis level. In May, teens from 13 parishes throughout the Metropolis of Denver gathered in San Antonio where St. Sophia Church hosted the Metropolis Oratorical Festival. AGOC was represented by two AOS alumni, Anastasia Strickler '19 and Maryn Wise '22.

Maryn, Junior Division representative, spoke on how Jesus teaches us humility, yet we live in a world where humility is not emphasized or on-trend. She explained how Christ, through His birth in a Manger and Death by Crucifixion, demonstrated for us His deep

by Maria Georgeton

Metropolis of Denver Oratorical Coordinator; Annunciation Cathedral Oratorical Chairperson

humility and that we are called to humble ourselves to be exalted in Christ. Maryn discussed the challenge of holding onto her Orthodox faith every day in her new school after AOS and how to face disagreements in discussions. The decision comes as whether to be right or righteous.

Anastasia, Senior Division representative, discussed how we have emerged through the pandemic with deep societal divides and how we as Orthodox Christians can heal and move forward. She explained how the divide, through isolation and reliance on technology, has caused humans not to see each other’s humanity and to forget we are all created in the image of God. She explained how easy it has become to judge others simply because they do not agree with us. Instead, when we come together in Liturgy we should come with faith and love together as one. Anastasia stressed that we must not ignore the divide but rather recognize that we must work to repair it.

AOS alumni Kyriaki Postolos '21 (Senior Division 2nd place), Robert Wise '20 (Senior Division 3rd Place), and Eleni Strickler '23 (Junior Division 3rd place) wrote exceptional speeches at the Parish level this year as well.

Congratulations on a job well done to all our AOS alumni participants for 2023!

What we need to see is not how divided we are but rather how united we have always been as God’s highest creation... we are moving forward knowing that we cannot ever be completely broken because Christ unites us as He is our Shepherd.

Anastasia Strickler ’19 Senior Division Representative

Choosing to correct someone to enlighten them is to place the truth ahead of my ego in order to truly educate and create understanding. Choosing to correct someone to shut them down is giving in to my own ego, which is not the way of humility...

Maryn Wise ’22 Junior Division Representative

TURNING LEMONS INTO GATORADE

By Kelley Elliott

Throughout my 20 years in education, I have seen a handful of my students become diagnosed with Type 1 juvenile diabetes and have watched them learn, grow, and thrive throughout their journey at AOS. Now that I am a mother myself, I cannot imagine what hearing that diagnosis must feel like for both parents and the child. The amount of responsibility to manage their insulin intake, check their levels, listen to what their body is telling them, and having to say no to that very tempting sugar-loaded cupcake is HUGE for a nine year old. Over the years, I was able to watch Olivia Stanich handle her diagnosis with maturity, grace, resilience, and strength. She never once let diabetes define who she was. She was always in charge of her condition and was an advocate for her needs. She insisted on being treated like all of her classmates and has shined academically, socially, athletically, and on the stage through our fine arts program.

When Olivia and her family came to us with the idea of rallying around her for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s One Walk, I knew we could help! In the spirit of last year’s priority, Serving Others Together, our Lower School and Middle School Student Councils held our first ever Lap Day Gatorade sale and we raised over $1,300 for Olivia’s Team, The Candy Crushers. I cannot wait to watch Olivia’s journey as it unfolds beyond the doors of AOS. I know she is going to do amazing things, and I hope she knows her AOS family will always be there to support her along the way!

Olivia Stanich '23 Testimonial

I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 2018 in the middle of my third-grade year at AOS. The community at this school is really something special, and it was the perfect support system for me to fall back on at the time of my diagnosis. The teachers and students were so eager to learn about my situation and help me in any way I could possibly need. Once I had a handle on my diabetes, I was able to start connecting with more Type 1 diabetics. They shared their experiences and advice with me. In fifth grade, my endocrinologist suggested that I apply to become a Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) ambassador. After a short few months of waiting, I was accepted into the program!

My work with JDRF included raising awareness, raising money, and going to events in order to share my experiences. I loved every moment of this, and I began to establish friendships at all of the events. This year, I decided to start a team for the JDRF One-Walk.

The whole mission of JDRF is to improve the lives of Type 1 diabetics and eventually find and/or fund a cure. The One-Walk does this by creating a competition to see which team can raise the most money for JDRF, and at the end of the fundraising period, all of the teams get together to walk three miles. My first thought when beginning to raise money was, “I wonder if I could do a fundraiser at AOS?” Of course, the answer was yes, and after some planning, we decided to have a Gatorade sale during Parent Lap Day. This was an astounding success! It was an amazing leg up at the beginning of my team's fundraising.

In the end, my team raised around $49,000 towards funding a cure for Type 1 diabetes. Loving and accepting communities like AOS and JDRF are hard to come by. I am just so blessed to be a part of both of them because they are always there for me whenever I need them.

Opposite (top to bottom): Ari Colen ’27 and Dharam Johl ’27; Dennis Hatchett, Dean Hatchett '31

Above: Olivia Stanich ’23;

We noticed so much trash every year from everyone's new lockers. I had a wooden locker that I reused every year and thought this would really help the environment.

Ethan Ou ’24

AN ECO-FRIENDLY SERVICE PROJECT

In the fall of 2021, Dash Willinger '24 and Ethan Ou '24 noticed a large amount of waste produced by locker shelf packaging and plastic locker shelves. In an effort to minimize this waste, they set out to find an eco-friendly alternative that could be reused year after year by every student at AOS, and in the end, the boys did not just find a solution, they created it!

After putting their heads together with their parents, the duo produced a wood prototype to present to the School’s Refresh Committee in the spring of 2022. The Committee loved the idea, and soon after, the boys, their parents, and a steady group of friends spent the summer of 2022 designing templates, sanding and cutting lumber, learning from mistakes, and finally building over 300 locker shelves to be installed the following fall. The boys worked tirelessly during the day and into many hot summer nights in a Houston warehouse with their sights set on the goal.

Over 100 hours later, Dash and Ethan delivered the completed pine shelves to AOS just in time for school to begin again in August of 2022. Each shelf fits perfectly inside the lockers, and the use of a sustainable material ensures a positive environmental impact for the AOS community.

The boys constructed more than just shelves that summer. They built long lasting leadership skills, friendships, and the tenacity to accomplish a goal for a greater good.

The most challenging part of the project was sanding in a space with no AC in the summer. We really underestimated how long it would take to sand 1200 boards (enough for 300 locker shelves). The piles of sawdust and the heat made it feel like we were working in a desert.

Dash Willinger ’24

FROM FOOD TO FLOWERS

AOS has been putting food waste to good use! In November of 2020, AOS began a partnership with Moonshot Compost, an environmentally friendly waste management business co-founded by AOS dad, Chris Wood. The company aims to divert food waste away from landfills by collecting it for compost. This compost is then returned to clients to use in their gardens and landscaping.

AOS first started by diverting food-prep waste from its kitchen, and soon after, expanded the program to include food waste from student and adult lunches. Since starting the program, AOS has diverted over 75,000 pounds of food scraps!

This initiative has taught our students how to correctly dispose of waste while taking good care of the environment. To see AOS’ impact in real time, scan the QR codes on this page!

Above (clockwise): Emma Yale ’31; Grace Ford ’31; Penny Hennagir ’31 Eva Morales ’31 Opposite (top to bottom): Thomas Huang ’24, Ethan Ou ’24, Dash Willinger ’24, Friend of AOS;

Class of 2023 WHAT I’LL MISS MOST

“I loved being with Sebi and George. I always looked forward to having a Chapel Buddy, and it was everything that I hoped for.”

Finch Fibbe ’23

“AOS has a great community. I have experienced so many acts of incredible kindness here.”

Daniel Pan ’23

“AOS feels like your second home. Whether you've been here for ten years or two, you've been embedded in a special community that will be with you for the rest of your life.”

Lila Johnson ’23

“A fun memorable class project was the popsicle bridge project in December of 2022. We had to design a popsicle bridge with a certain weight level, as well as having limited supplies. My group was able to win for the class, and I was proud of our achievement.”

“Although I was only here for three years, the bond I've made with my friends feels like I've known them my whole life.”

“I will miss Chapel and all of the Orthodox celebrations. I will also miss Olympics.”

Jacqueline Little ’23

Emerson Koay ’23

Olivia

Sim ’23

Class of 2023 PARTING

THOUGHTS

Do you remember the very first time I spoke to you as the head of middle school? It was here in the Cathedral. I got to come over for the 4thgrade Moving Up Ceremony. It was my first Moving Up Ceremony in a year of many firsts, and I was still a little nervous. Maybe you were, too when thinking about coming to middle school. In my speech, I asked you to keep 2 questions in mind as you moved through the next 4 years. The questions were, “How can I help?” and “What really matters?” You all did not disappoint!

I want to give full credit to the class of 2023 for bringing back the 7th- and 8th-grade dance. I don’t think it would have happened without you guys as the 7th- grade StuCo class reps!

I have enjoyed watching you all tackle the whirlwind that is 8th grade at AOS! The Little Mermaid 8th grade musical was definitely one of the best we have done while I have been here and that is saying a lot because that’s an area where AOS really shines! The fact that you all did that while applying to high school, playing in the HJPC playoffs, and doing regular 8th- grade academics is quite the testament to your character. Sophia was a delightful, charming, and funny Flounder. Tommy’s stage presence and talent as the chef was spot on. Lilah you brought tears to my eyes when you sang about Ariel’s desire to be a part of that world and again when you sang your own songs at Performance Agape! Student Council Officers - WOW! This year was the best we have had! You prepared presentations and lobbied the business office and others to make good on your campaign promises. Eleni, Caroline, Caroline, Mary Sam, and Jett you brought back chocolate milk and are among the few politicians, probably in the whole world, that actually keep your campaign promises!

You are the first class to graduate from AOS with our official Philotimo statement and core values, and I know you will continue to act with kindness, respect, gratitude, and integrity. One of my favorite Bible verses is from Micah 6:8. The part I like says “...And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Remember I love you all and I am so very proud of you!

Heather Haas Head of Middle School

For some of us, today might be the last time we are all together. I understand that the fear of uncertainty may feel overwhelming right now, but as one of the greatest poets of our modern time Drake once said, “Pain makes you stronger. Fear makes you braver. Heartbreak makes you wiser.”

This quote hits home for me because I had the opportunity to go to the same high school as the rest of my siblings, but after much thought and consideration, I chose to go with the “unknown” rather than the “known.” I think that it is important for people to create their own paths and embrace the risks that come with them.

Henry Brenckmann ’23

It is difficult to explain just how AOS enables us to cultivate so many memories. One thing is certain: the irreplaceable community of AOS is a heart that never stops beating.

The first person I would like to show my gratitude to is Mrs. Koinis. Sitting on the colorful carpet in Mrs. Koinis' religion class, she never failed to make us smile and laugh as she taught the fruits of the Spirit. Her donut analogy will always stick with me. She would say, “Focus on the donut, not the hole,” illustrating that we shouldn’t let the difficulties of life like strained friendships or homework distract us from appreciating the positives of life. Mrs. Koinis led by example in having an optimistic outlook all the time.

Mary Sam Khalil ’23

THE SILVER PILLAR AWARD

Each year, the Silver Pillar Award is given to an outstanding AOS volunteer. First awarded in 1996 to the founders of the school, Father Nick Triantafilou, his wife Presvytera Diane, and to the founding Head of School Katherine Veletsos, The Silver Pillar Award for Outstanding Service is Annunciation Orthodox School’s top volunteer honor.

Michele Friedman, 2023 Recipient

Michele Friedman is the 2023 Silver Pillar Award recipient. Michele has worked tirelessly to volunteer her time with the AOS community since 2010. A proud mom to Cecilia, Class of 2019, and Eliza, Class of 2023, she has shared her many talents to give back to the school, and her commitment to AOS is truly unmatched.

Michele has been a member of the Board of Trustees since 2020 and has been involved in several board sub-committees. She served as the PTC President during the 2017-2018 school year and has chaired or served on nearly every single PTC committee including Olympics Chair, E Phili Mas Chair, Book Fair and Spaghetti Dinner, Gala, Room Parent

Coordinator, Helping Hands Coordinator and Library volunteer, to name a few.

In addition to her official committee work, Michele has spearheaded multiple behind-thescenes efforts that demonstrated her can-do attitude and dedication to the AOS community. Hours after Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, Michele quickly orchestrated a large-scale disaster response team to help dozens of AOS families with places to stay, food, laundry, and the clean up of flooded homes. As a member of our E Phili Mas committee, Michele has been one of the first people to welcome countless families to the AOS community with a warm smile and endless tips and tricks to find their way as an AOS dolphin.

Through the years, Michele has faithfully given her time, talents, and resources, and she has made a long-lasting impact on AOS in meaningful ways that we will always remember.

THE TRIANTAFILOU AWARD

The Triantafilou Award is given to someone who embodies and promotes the mission of Annunciation Orthodox School. The Triantafilou Award is named in honor of Father Nick Triantafilou and his wife Presvytera Diane, the founders of AOS.

Nikkie Kyriasoglou, 2023 Recipient

Nikkie Kyriasoglou is the 2023 Triantafilou Award recipient. It is safe to say that every member of the AOS family has been touched by Nikkie’s incredible, authentic kindness at some point throughout their time at AOS.

Nikkie started her career at AOS in 1987. She was not only an AOS parent at the time, but a preschool assistant, too. Since 1998, she has held the beloved role of lower school receptionist, and she is also an AOS grandparent to three grandchildren who she is able to see every day at school.

Nikkie always emanates joy, welcoming students and visitors every day. Her infectious

smile and playful laughter can brighten even the roughest of Mondays, and there’s not a single community member she cannot greet by name. Knowing every name, however, does not stop her from greeting someone with an endearing nickname like “love bug,” “baby,” or “sweetheart.” She has a magical way of making every single person feel special, and she’s known to say, “Love you!” before hanging up the phone.

She’s everyone’s yiayia, cooking delicious spaghetti for over 35 years, and feeding the hearts and souls of everyone at AOS.

Nikkie has been the face of AOS for the past 36 years, and she is the embodiment of the AOS mission and agape. The “Efharisto Prayer,” recited by our students, says, “Thank you, thank you, God for all the good things.” Nikkie is one of those good things. In fact, she is one of the best things.

2022-2023: A Year in Review

SPECIAL EVENTS

Back to School Breakfast

Book Fair & Spaghetti Dinner

Father/Son Night Out

Dads Club Golf Tournament

Daddy/Daughter Night Out

Dads Club Sporting Clays Tournament

Eikon Art Show

Grandparents and Special Friends Day

AOS Olympics

1) Brooke Beebe, Marion Beebe ’28, Sadie Jackson ’27;

2) Charlie Stehl ’27 4) Ashley Johnson, Chris Porter;

5) Rowan Andrews ’31, Forrest Andrews; 6) Andrew Durham;

7) Caroline Shotwell ’31; 8) Rocky Zeve ’24, Judy Faulconer; 9) Levi Kalambo ’32

Class of 2019 College Choices

OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO

Auburn University

Kiera Adzgery

Boston University

Walker Turley

Brown University

Jaya Thekdi

Colby College

Wilson Bailey

Reed Terrill

Colorado School of Mines

Karina Davis

Shaan Patel

Connecticut College

Anna Kalapatapu Soccer

Andreas Savas

1911 Scholarship

Hampton University

Langston Benford

Louisiana State University

Sofia Ordaz

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Arianna Doss

Janie Thomas Field Hockey

New York University

Jack Lovett

Northwestern University

Lexi Guo

Old Dominion University

Nicholas Lambakis

Pomona College

Jonathan Varcados

Football

Rhodes College

Chris Karohl

Rice University

Fuka Adachi

Charlie Bera

Sam Houston State University

Ethan Brooks

Southern Methodist University

Jordan Kahn

Texas A&M University

Alex Berger

Ryland Chu

Sul Ross/Corps of Cadets Scholarship

Stavros Cotsoradis

Michael Elgohary

Landon Foltz

Lefkie Germanides

Max Ginsburg

Ryan Hanna

Bond Hassen

Matthew Kelley

Alex Metry

Emma Poirot

Chevron U.S. REACH Scholarship

Mays Business School Scholarship

Phi Beta Kappa Scholarship

Alex Psifidis

Tasia Rushing

Kieran Smith

Liam Smith

Anastasia Strickler

Adam White

Texas Christian University

Dylan Loving

Trinity University

Luke Sullo Baseball

Tulane University

Cecilia Friedman

University of Alabama

Ansley LeGrand Foundation in Excellence Scholarship

University of California, Davis

Sophia Tolias

University of California, Irvine

Jack Simon

University of California, San Diego

Molly Marchese

University of Chicago

Madison Schultz

Charlie Solé

Grace Stephens

Sebastian Villamil

University of Colorado

Avery Goss

University of Denver

Sophia Espinoza

University of Georgia

Catherine Webster University of Georgia Classic Scholarship Award

University of Mississippi

Miller Fleming

Lauren Pearson

Ellie Webster

University of Oklahoma

Hyatt Brown

James Stanton

University of Rochester

Alex Adkins

University of Southern California

Camille Solé

University of Texas

Konnor Allen

Helen Aulbach

Olivia Chapman

David Fry

Anne Louise Webster

University of Texas at Arlington

Hannah Kinder

University of Virginia

Patrick Schroeder

Anna Mathews

Equestrian

Vanderbilt University

Brink Wiesedeppe

Washington University

Nora Doughty

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: CLIFTON GILLOCK ’03

When did you attend AOS?

I am an AOS lifer. I attended from 1994 to 2003.

How has an AOS education shaped who you are today?

Attending AOS provided me with a well-rounded education and a strong foundation in various subjects. This shaped my critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and work ethic. AOS also offered me opportunities for personal growth, collaboration with peers, and exposure to different ideas and perspectives.

What is your favorite memory from AOS?

Looking back at my time at AOS from preschool through eighth grade, what I cherish most are the relationships I was able to form with my classmates and their families. Many of us are still in contact and see each other around Houston from time to time…20 years later!

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?

My main inspiration and motivation came from my aunt who happens to also be my business partner. I believe a desire for

independence and an outlet for my creativity was also a contributing factor. Having seen a handful of my friends have success with their own small businesses definitely gave me added confidence.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment thus far?

Growth, both from a business perspective but also on a personal level. I am not the same person I was when I started the business seven years ago. The amount of experience and personal development I have achieved during this journey is immeasurable.

What advice do you have for the next generation of students at AOS who might be interested in starting a business?

Pursue your passions, embrace failure, and learn from it. I have failed more than most, and it has made me into a better person, a better leader, and a better business owner.

What is one professional goal you hope to accomplish next?

I hope to eventually be able to grow and scale the business into a position where I am not as heavily involved in the day-to-day operations. I would like to pursue opening or investing in more businesses.

Co-Founder of KICPOPS

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: KRISTIN BROWN ’08

When did you attend AOS?

I attended AOS during the 2007-2008 school year. I spent my eighth-grade year there and made lifelong friends during my time. It also prompted my cousin to attend AOS soon after. It was truly an amazing experience!

How has an AOS education shaped who you are today?

AOS has shaped me in a lot of ways. When I attended, I was going through a big transition in my life. My family was moving back to Houston from Los Angeles, California, and I was changing schools during my last year of middle school. Even though my twin sister was attending with me, I was really nervous and had a lot of anxiety about making friends and fitting in. I ended up having nothing to worry about. AOS was extremely welcoming, as was everyone in my class. I made friends fast and the teachers adapted to my learning style and really guided me through anything I needed to

catch up on. It really taught me to be patient with myself and prompted my love of learning. I still carry that with me today!

What is your favorite memory from AOS?

I have so many favorite memories from AOS! Some are not super exciting, like playing four-square outside with friends or building sets for the plays, but I had such a great time and still laugh over those moments. One that will forever stand out is the surprise field trip day. We had a really well behaved class, so our teachers rewarded us with a whole day off to bowl!

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in this field?

I fell in love with coffee in college. When I graduated, I took a job writing for Cowboys & Indians Magazine. While writing, I spent a lot of time at coffee shops and made it a goal to hit as many shops as I could in Dallas and

Owner of The Railcar Coffee & Spirits and partner in Gold Handle Coffee

beyond. I learned a lot from visiting those and meeting with the people who ran them. They didn't have a coffee shop in the Fort Worth Stockyards when I went to visit, and I became inspired. I grew up within the western lifestyle, so I found an environment that felt like home.

What is your favorite career-related memory and greatest professional accomplishment thus far?

My favorite memory related to entrepreneurship was probably the day that I opened the shop. I felt such a relief that it was finally happening.

I think the biggest professional accomplishments have been the day-to-day ones, honestly — when someone gives a good review or when I have a customer that comes back the next day and they keep coming back. Those are the most rewarding because it means I've created a welcoming environment and a great product to follow. I really take pride in my coffee, but even more so in the customer experience. Maybe that's not very traditionally "professional," but it is what keeps me motivated.

What advice do you have for the next generation of students at AOS who might be interested in starting a business?

The best advice I can give is to be adaptive to your business. And, as cliche as it sounds, always be learning. In business, some things don’t happen the way you want them to, so you have to take those moments in stride and be willing to pivot when and where you need to. Don't be so hard-headed or prideful that

you can't take constructive criticism, either. Be willing to learn from failure and those who have done it before you. That being said, follow the values you set for yourself and the company, too. Those values are your personal guide to success.

What is one professional goal you hope to accomplish next?

Right now, I'm working with a great company called Gold Handle Coffee. I would love to spread the word on this and help it grow. We have such a great group of people and an even better coffee product.

Any other fun fact(s) you’d like to share about your career experiences?

I have quite a few, but my favorite moment was getting to meet Reba McEntire. She ordered a cappuccino, and I spent the whole day worrying that I ruined the milk.

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES THE LITHOS SOCIETY

Planned giving provides donors with the opportunity to make a more substantial gift than would otherwise be possible and to create a long-lasting legacy at AOS.

Annunciation Orthodox School has a rich tradition of generous philanthropic support. One way to show your support for our school is through a planned gift.

The Lithos Society was created to recognize and express gratitude to alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends who have established a charitable gift for AOS in their estate plans. Planned gifts provide critical funds to strengthen and sustain the school’s future. By including AOS in your long-term planning, you become part of setting the lithos (foundation) for the school's future generations.

Examples of planned gifts include naming AOS in your will or as a beneficiary on a life insurance policy, pension, IRA, 401(k) plan, or charitable remainder trust. If you have already included AOS in your estate plans, please let us know so we can appropriately acknowledge and thank you for your gift!

If you are interested in learning more about the Lithos Society and how you can give a gift to AOS that will last a lifetime, please contact Jill Buja, Director of Advancement, at jbuja@aoshouston.org for more information.

graduated from the University of Georgia School of Law with a JD degree and cum laude status. He also received the University of Georgia School of Law CALI Excellence for the Future Award for Legal Writing. Matthew accepted a position as an associate at Bracewell in Houston and focuses his practice on complex commercial litigation.

Mackenzie

Grace Griffin ’11 accepted a new position as Digital Marketing Manager for the Boston-based firm, Ideometry. Mackenzie recently moved from Austin to Houston and was chosen to perform in a play for On The Verge Theatre directed by Mr. Jimmy Phillips in May of 2023.

The word lithos means stone, but throughout time its connotation has evolved into a broader meaning. Most commonly, lithos is used to refer to the foundation of new construction. In the Orthodox Christian language, the word lithos is used to describe Christ as the founder of the Church.

Matthew Laurence Griffin ’09

Michael John Griffin IV ’07 accepted a position as Systems Architect for Getsales headquartered in Austin, Texas.

Marilyn Brett

Griffin ’13

graduated from Franciscan University and was chosen to be a First Year Missionary in Denver, Colorado last year with Christ in the City. This year, she helped to open the first full year of Christ in the City in Philadelphia. Christ in the City addresses the most debilitating need for the homeless population, a need for human connection. Marilyn is continuing to attack the poverty of loneliness by meeting the homeless with friendship on a daily basis in her second year as a missionary.

Isabelle (Detmering) Davenport

’10 and husband Adams Davenport welcomed their first child, Mary McCall "Mimi" Davenport, on December 28, 2022.

Alexandra (McMaken)

Kantalis ’03, husband Jon Kantalis, and big sister Katherine (2) welcomed baby girl Kyriaki on March 31, 2023.

Homa (Shalchi)

Warren ’09 married Nick Warren on February 18, 2023 in Houston, Texas.

Lindley Gray

’00 is celebrating the fifth anniversary of her namesake fine jewelry business based in Houston, New York City, and Philadelphia.

Thierry Chu ’18 just finished her first year at the University of Texas at Austin. She is majoring in Plan II Honors and English and minoring in Spanish and Risk Management. This past year, she started working with the Plan II Admissions Team as an admissions assistant running information sessions and directing the Plan II Instagram. During the spring semester, she joined a pre-professional organization through McCombs School of Business called Texas Consulting. This past summer, she traveled around Italy and France with her best friend Katie Schott ’18.

(Bottom left, Marilyn)

ALUMNI CLASS NOTES

Isabel Greiner ’04

and Cullen Avidan welcomed their second son, Claude Foy, on May 11, 2023 in their Montrose home, just a couple blocks from AOS!

Brooke (Forester)

Wisian ’96

and family welcomed their fifth child in October 2022, a baby girl named, Elodie Rose Wisian. They now have four girls and one boy: Abigail (13), Eli(9), Annabelle(5), Isla (2), and baby Elodie.

Lindsay (Reed)

Townsend ’98 and husband

AOS classmates from the Class of 2020 helped Dylan Lloyd Bentsen with his Eagle Scout project over Memorial Day weekend 2023. Pictured from left to right are Dylan Bentsen, Logan Phillips, Noah Chang, Cooper Tully, Wade McGee, William Tully, and William Stovall.

Bailey (Teas)

Mongeon ’04

and Chris Mongeon welcomed baby girl Millie Clare Mongeon on February 26, 2023.

Jonathan welcomed their son, Samuel Reed Townsend on February 21, 2023. He joins proud big sister Virginia James (3).

Kaitlin (McLaughlin)

Necas ’02

and husband Kevin Necas, Jr. are expecting baby girl Necas in September. The family cannot wait to see their son, Luca William Necas, shine as a big brother.

Amanda Schultz ’01 is currently living in San Antonio with her husband Chris and their three cats. They are expecting their first baby in November.

Janie Thomas ’19 graduated as valedictorian of Episcopal High School's class of 2023. In the fall, Janie will play NCAA field hockey for MIT while studying brain and cognitive science on a pre-med track.

Augustus

"Gus"

Amann ’05

and his wife, Olivia, welcomed their son, Tiberius Amann on April 5, 2022. He celebrated his first birthday this past spring and he is best friends with his older sister, Lucrezia (3).

Catherine Grace Catechis ’12 completed her first year of teaching second grade at Harvard Elementary School in The Heights.

Class of 1996 Time Capsule by Kelli Lilienstern ’96

Alexandra Kirby Sokolow ’06 passed her Ph.D. Candidacy Exams in Religious Studies at the University of Pennsylvania in late 2022. Kirby will begin writing her dissertation while continuing her graduate fellowship. She previously received her bachelor's from Wesleyan University and her master's from New York University.

Wesley Benford ’14 graduated with a master's degree in architecture from Hampton University in May 2023.

On January 6, 2023, a few members from the class of 1996 gathered to open a time capsule that had been sealed for 30 years! It was such a special occasion to get together with former classmates and teachers to open the piece of AOS history. Some of the predictions the class made about life in 2022 were accurate, and some were way off base, but it was so fun to remember life at AOS 30 years ago. Many things about the school have changed since I was a student, but the heart and spirit of AOS remains the same. I love being an AOS parent and getting to experience these amazing traditions all over again with my daughters (Penny Hennagir ’31 and Cece Hennagir ’34).

On Zoom, clockwise, Giselle Ontra (AOS parent to Danielle Ontra † * ), David Hall, Megan (Becker) Kilis, Sarah Summers, and Rick Collins

Left to right, Cindy Golden (former teacher), Brooke (Forester) Wisian, Clayton McCain, Ashra (Miner) Dunker, Kelli Lilienstern, David Golden (former teacher), Will Hayes

* In Memoriam

2024

June 3-21

aPPLY to aos

You already know what makes AOS a unique and special place, and the AOS Admission Team can't wait to see you back on campus!

Applications available August 1 Deadline: Friday, December 8

Tour registration begins August 1 Tours run from September 12- December 7

registration

January 18

Current and incoming AOS students

January 25

Returning Camp Families not enrolled at AOS

February 1 Open to the public

THE DELPHIAN

The Delphian is published annually by the Communications Office, with support from the Advancement Office. It is sent to alumni, current parents, grandparents, and friends of the school who wish to receive it. For information or questions regarding The Delphian, please contact communications@aoshouston.org.

Editor in Chief

Penny Angelo

Contributing Editors

Jill Buja

Katherine (Koinis) Monk ’01

Photography

Indie-Pepper, Alan Ross, MD Turner Photography, AOS Faculty & Staff, AOS Community

Graphic Design

Danielle Garbouchian

Administration Team

Head of School

Dr. Samuel V. Fragomeni

Assistant to the Head of School

Colleen Wade

Head of Early Childhood & Lower School

Sharon Corbett

Assistant Head of Early Childhood & Lower School

Michelle Staller

Head of Middle School

Heather Haas

Assistant Head of Middle School

Johna Rusk

Director of Admission

Molly Khalil

Director of Advancement

Jill Buja

Director of Communications

Sarah Dennis

Director of Extended Day

Emily Benton

Director of Finance & Operations

Bryant F. Richardson, CPA

Director of Physical Education & Athletics

Ron Robinson

Director of School Life

Kelley Elliott

Director of Technology

Patrick Foye

Above: Jack Lipp ’28, Caroline McConomy ’28, Jacob Flores ’28, Isaac Coldren ’28, Katerina Vasos ’28, Daniella Peneguy ’28;

ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX SCHOOL

3600 YOAKUM BOULEVARD

HOUSTON, TEXAS 77006-4240

713.470.5600

aoshouston.org

October 5, 2023

AOS Night at the Original Greek Festival Houston

October 18, 2023

Spaghetti Dinner

December 4, 2023

Golf Tournament hosted by the AOS Dads Club

March 2, 2024 AOS Gala

For more information, please contact the Advancement Office at advancement@aoshouston.org.