Summer 2018
magazine
Congratulations, Class of 2018 Also Inside:
Soccer Takes State I Art at its Finest I New Tennis Courts
FPD Magazine First Presbyterian Day School 5671 Calvin Drive Macon, Georgia 31210 Phone: (478) 477-6505 www.fpdmacon.org Administration Gregg Thompson, Headmaster Dr. Barry Shealy, Assistant Headmaster Matt Kitchell, High School Principal Molly Pearson ’87, Middle School Principal Wade Putnal, Lower School Principal David Bass, Technology Director Beth Burnsed ‘00, Communications Director Chris Childers, Facilities Director Cheri Frame ’89, Enrollment & Advancement Director Greg Moore ’84, Athletic Director Charlie Parrish, Chief Financial Officer Dr. Andrew Strickland, Fine Arts Director Brad Thompson, College Counseling Director 2017-2018 Board of Trustees Mr. Bert Barnes (‘02) Mr. Jason Churchwell Mrs. Ashley Copelan Mr. Bill Ennis Mr. Hal Foshee Dr. Cameron Garvin Mr. Henry Mahler Mr. Jonathan Martin Mr. Sam Martinez Rev. Chip Miller (Ex Officio) Mr. Danny Smith Mr. Jay Strickland (Chair)(‘81) Mrs. Rhonda Sutton Mr. Gregg Thompson (Ex Officio) Writing: Beth Burnsed, Barry Shealy, Brad Thompson, Jason Godbee, Lundy Lader, Katie Hatcher Photography: Jordan Marshall, Andrew Brooks, Beth Burnsed, Davis Anderton, Sarah Futo Printer: Panaprint FPD Magazine is published by the First Presbyterian Day School Communications Office. Contents may be re-printed with permission of the school. For questions or comments, e-mail beth.burnsed@fpdmacon.org.
From The Headmaster ‘Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.’ Jeremiah 17: 7-8 Dear FPD Family and Friends, You’ll be encouraged as you read what our alumni are doing and to see evidence of God’s faithfulness over the years. The alumni spotlights echo some of the thoughts our recent graduates share in their ‘profiles’ - memories of their time at FPD and thoughts on the impact of their teachers and peers. All of their thoughts point to the sense of being part of something bigger than themselves as each seeks to change the world for God’s glory. With the graduated class of 2018, our alumni family is over 3,000 strong. What a testimony of our faithful God! The sense of family and connectedness is truly a blessing and is made possible, in my experience, by our shared goals as students, parents, faculty and staff. Our ultimate goal is to love Christ and give Him our best. In this pursuit, we gain an appreciation for the personality and gifts that make each of us unique. We show our love for one another and the many teams, clubs, and fine arts groups, amid an academic program that is rigorous and challenging. We also gain the skills necessary to interpret and respond to our culture with a deeper understanding of the complex world in which we live. Jay Ferguson, Headmaster of Grace Community School in Tyler, TX, captures the essence of a Christian school and describes FPD’s pursuit as a Christ-centered school in his blog of June 18 – ‘If you believe God is the author of life and the creator of everything that is, this means that He has a perspective, something to say about everything in life: not just relationships and living in a moral way, but about things like language, and math, and science, and music, and every aspect of human endeavor. When the Apostle Paul says, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2, NIV), he doesn’t mean just know facts about God; he means let what you know about God, revealed in His Word and through creation, transform the way you look at everything in life. That’s what a Christian school is about: helping kids think that way. And, no other school is set up to do it. It can’t.’ As we, the FPD school family, point each other toward our faithful creator and seek to honor Him in all things, we help build in our current and future generations of Vikings that trust in our Lord that will nourish and bear fruit in all the seasons of life. What a blessing!
Because He is faithful, Gregg Thompson FPD Headmaster
Graduation Senior Spotlights College Choices Commencement Address Valedictory Address Salutatory Address Legacy Photos Student Recognition Honor Graduates Features FPD’s New Tennis Courts Spring Break in China What is Accreditation?
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On Campus Student Achievement Teacher of the Year Reading Boost Program The New Viking Clubhouse Athletics Lady Vikings Soccer Team Takes State FPD Athletics Ranked Highest Sadie Frame Wins Dooley Award Titus Moore: Record Breaker Winter & Spring Sports Recap Reserved Seats for Football 2018
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Fine Arts Art at its Finest, FPD’s AP Art Program Fine Arts Student Awards Alumni Alumni Spotlights: Jenny Wooddall Hunt (‘80) and Catherine Rader Wood (‘91)
The FPD Magazine is now online! Visit www.fpdmacon.org/magazine to view our online edition with links to videos, expanded articles, and more. While the summer edition of the magazine will continue to be mailed, the Winter 2019 edition will
Alumni Notes
be primarily digital. Since the Winter edition contains the FPD Annual
FPD Alumni, After the First Year
Report, participants in the FPD Annual Fund will continue to receive a printed copy. If you do not participate in the FPD Annual Fund, but
Events Golf Tournament Recap Upcoming Events Homecoming 2018 - Save the Date
would still like a printed copy, please email Beth Burnsed, FPD Director of Communication, at beth.burnsed@fpdmacon.org. If you would like to participate in the FPD Annual Fund, visit www.fpdmacon.org/annualfund.
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educating & equipping students to change the world for God’s glory
Graduation
2018
I N T R O D U C I N G T H E F P D G R A D U AT E S O F
The Class of 2018 is the 44th graduating class of First Presbyterian Day School. On May 19, 2018, ninety-two members of the class walked across the stage. FPD is now the alma mater of over 3,000 alumni. Academically, the class included 51 AP Scholars, 54 Honor Graduates, and 56 members of the National Honor Society. In the community and around the world, they excelled in service to others. They contributed over 18,100 hours of volunteerism to over 100 different agencies and churches during the previous 4 years. That equates to an average of 196 hours per student, when 120 hours was the amount required. The Class of 2018 also excelled athletically. Each year for the past three years, they helped lead FPD to a top-10 ranking of all single-A private schools in the Regions Bank Directors Cup. This year FPD athletics was ranked the top private school athletic program in Middle Georgia and number eight in the state. Student-athletes in the Class of 2018 have been part of numerous region, area, and state champion teams. While the class was in high school, FPD crowned state champs in softball, golf, girls soccer, and twice in shooting sports along with several individual awards.
The class was also superior in the arts. FPD has been blessed by the visual artwork of our senior art students who received multiple awards from the Kiwanis Club Art Show as well as Golden Eagle awards. In chorus, our girls solo, boys quartet, and girls trio led by members of the Class of 2018, consistently placed high in the region Literary Competitions. Likewise, audiences were mesmerized by 2017-2018 theatrical performances of Radium Girls, The Music Man, and Our Town, and inspired by the talent of our awardwinning bands and dance teams. Now the Class of 2018 is off to college. After sending 301 college applications to 107 colleges in 26 states, they have selected 30 different college homes for the next part of their journey.
To the Class of 2018, you have been cared for, loved on, supported, nurtured, prayed over, and provided for. You have been given a priceless education, exposed to amazing service opportunities, and encouraged to pursue excellence in both athletics and the arts. Now is the time to enter the next phase. It has been our pleasure to have been a part of your life. Go and change the world for God’s glory!
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Graduation
Senior
SPOTLIGHTS
Vivianna Chang College Choice: Mercer University Planned Major: Exercise Science
Each year FPD selects several representatives of the senior class to feature in this special graduation edition of the FPD Magazine. Here are their favorite FPD memories and plans for the future.
What have you enjoyed most at FPD? The people. I love coming to school and seeing and talking to my friends and teachers. FPD is such a close-knit community and everyone is super friendly, which I love because of the close friendships I have. How do you feel FPD instilled in you a foundation of faith? I feel that FPD has instilled a strong foundation of faith in me. Every teacher, no matter the subject they teach, has always been willing to help me and care about my spiritual wellbeing. Is there a coach or teacher you would like to thank? Coach Leslein has always encouraged me both in the water and out of the water. She’s a great swim coach who is always positive and willing to help. Every swim meet, she’s always cheering me on. I couldn’t thank her enough for her love and motivation. Likewise, Madame Polezhaeva encouraged me and helped me to learn to trust the Lord’s plan and timing for me. Lastly, Mrs. Huggins’s sweet prayers have always been a motivation spiritually. Any advice for underclassmen? Enjoy and cherish the time you have with your friends, classmates, and teachers. Study hard and do everything for the glory of God.
Wilson Andress
Madisyn Earls
College Choice: Georgia Southern University Planned Major: Civil Engineering or Business
College Choice: Valdosta State University Planned Major: English Literature
Is there a coach or teacher you would like to thank? Rev. Veazey has made a large impact on my time at FPD through his classes and personality. His classes helped give a different perspective on the lives of others, and he is also an incredible person. When he gets up at the beginning of the year every year and gives that speech about the honor council he sounds intimidating, but he is really one of funniest and most caring people on campus.
What have you enjoyed most at FPD? What I have enjoyed the most about FPD is that there is something for everyone here. From art, to sports, to mock trial, to robotics, to theatre, there is a place for everyone to grow in their talents and use their God-given gifts.
Why is FPD a great place to be? The reason FPD is such a great school is because it feels like one giant family. The bond between teachers, students, and families is unlike any other school. Whenever something happens to someone, good or bad, they will always have everyone there praying for them and supporting them. Also, the teachers are willing to help you with anything, no matter if it involves school or not. They all want the best for you and are willing to go out of their way to help you. Any advice for underclassmen? My advice for underclassmen is that they need to stay organized and have a plan. If they already have an idea on where they want to go to college, then they should go talk to Mr. Brad Thompson to see what it takes to get into the school. It is hard to be successful without any sort of plan.
How do you feel FPD has prepared you for college? My experience at FPD has prepared me for college both academically and spiritually. My time here has taught me not to be afraid of challenges and helped me build the confidence I need to face them. Most importantly, my teachers at FPD have instilled in me the desire to do everything for God’s glory. FPD has taught me to put my best into everything that I do from work in the classroom, to teamwork, to community service, in order to glorify God above all else. Any advice for underclassmen? My advice to underclassman is to be involved. Enjoy your time here with your classmates and teachers! Don’t adopt the “too cool for school” attitude. Value all areas of your education here, both academic and extracurricular. Go support your classmates at their games, plays, and band concerts. Soak up the time you spend here because it goes by faster than you could ever imagine.
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Elizabeth Nelson
Tucker Bryant
College Choice: Centre College Planned Major: Business
College Choice: University of Georgia Planned Major: Biology
How do you feel FPD instilled in you a foundation of faith? By being an example, FPD’s faculty have shown me what it means to have a foundation of faith in Christ. Through good character, positivity, pursuing the Lord and many other traits, I have learned how to live out and stand up for my faith.
How do you feel FPD has prepared you for college? I feel prepared for college because my teachers have pushed me to be my best in every subject. My honors and AP classes have been some of my favorites, and their rigor makes me feel very confident in my abilities heading into college.
What have you enjoyed most about FPD? I have enjoyed the atmosphere FPD has provided for me the past thirteen years. I have felt the impact of the closeknit community that is FPD. The support that the students and teachers show for one another is encouraging. Everyone wants to see you do well. The FPD community is truly special and has provided me with friends, opportunities, and a great education.
How do you feel FPD instilled in you a foundation of faith? The foundation of faith is one of my favorite things about FPD. Having teachers who are willing and able to pray and talk about Christianity every day is a great thing.
Why is FPD a great place to be? FPD offers the students opportunities to explore many different avenues of interests. Whether your interest is in academics, athletics, or fine arts, FPD offers it all. The faculty at FPD push you to not only pursue your interests, but excel at them. As I graduate from FPD, I have no doubt in my mind that FPD has given me the chance to explore my interests. Any advice for underclassmen? One piece of advice for underclassmen is to start strong and finish strong. To think about the end of your high school career as a freshman can be startling and hard to keep in focus at times. At the end of your senior year, if you have applied yourself to each class and tried your hardest, you will not walk away with regrets.
What have you enjoyed most about FPD? I have most enjoyed the camaraderie and close friendships that I have had with many of my classmates. The small classes and grade sizes have really allowed me to befriend a lot of people. Is there a coach or teacher you would like to thank? The teacher who made the most impact on me is Coach Atkinson. He prepared me for the difficult high school road ahead in ninth grade Honors World History. The study habits and notetaking skills that I learned in that class have made me a better student overall and that class, along with AP European History, have instilled in me a love of history and the humanities. Any advice for underclassmen? I would advise underclassmen not to mess around and let their grades get away from them during their early years.
Titus Moore
Daria Brown
College Choice: Samford University Planned Major: Communications or Computer Science
College Choice: Georgia College Planned Major: Double major in Psychology and French
What have you enjoyed most at FPD? My favorite thing about FPD has always been the nice environment of the student body. You could always find a friend on campus.
How do you feel FPD has prepared you for college? I learned that I have to work hard and play an active role in my education. This, along with the rigor of the classes I took, has definitely prepared me for college.
How do you feel FPD has prepared you for college? I believe the courses at FPD have prepared me academically. The education level here is more competitive than other schools in the area. I am confident that I’ve been prepared academically just as well, if not better, than those around me.
What have you enjoyed most about FPD? I really enjoyed my extracurricular activities. Mock Trial with Mr. Childs and theatre with Dr. Strickland have been among my favorites. At FPD, many of the clubs and sports and other activities become small families. The friendships I’ve made and the memories I’ve had, I will always cherish.
Is there a coach or teacher you would like to thank? Coach Frame, my track and field coach, has impacted my life for the past 4 years the most. He taught me how to always approach every day of practice and every day of life as an opportunity to get better instead of wasting the day away.
Why is FPD a great place to be? I think FPD is a great school because of its faculty. They care about each and every student, and they show it. When a teacher is passionate about their subject, it makes students passionate as well. This creates a great environment for creative and analytical minds to prosper and grow. FPD truly follows its mission statement: educating and equipping students to change the world for God’s glory!
Any advice for underclassmen? The best advice I can give to an underclassman is that there is no substitution for hard work. If you want to be the best at something or want to achieve a goal, you have to be willing to work harder than those around you for it.
Any advice for underclassmen? Form relationships with teachers and coaches! They are there to help you. Hold these memories close because before you know it, it’ll be May of your graduating year and you’ll walk across that stage.
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College Choices
Mr. Copeland Paul Ammann Miss Mary Brett Anderson Mr. Wilson Clark Andress Mr. Michael Chandler Bakkar Mr. Samuel Mark Bass Mr. Bryant Whaley Beall Mr. Dawson Allen Black Mr. James Gavin Bloodworth Miss Olivia Jo Boggess Miss Elizabeth Porter Bolles Mr. Dylan Jeffrey Bridges Mr. Jarred Michael Brooks Miss Daria Elizabeth Brown Miss Erin Lee Brown Mr. Tucker Reese Bryant Mr. Brady Kyle Buher Miss Abbie Afton Burns Miss Abigail Rose Butler Mr. Andrew Halliman Cerny Miss Vivianna Chang Miss India Grace Cook Miss Celia Evan Correa Mr. Dalton Lee Cox Mr. Carter Thomas Cusson Mr. Yuchen Dai Mr. John Whitney Drinkwater Miss Madisyn Chandler Earls Mr. Frederick Phillip Engel III Miss Caitlin Elizabeth Farr Miss Saynor Dallis Foshee Miss Sadie Stone Frame Mr. Maurice Marcellius Gordon Mr. Christopher McDaniel Grice Miss Anna Marie Griffin Miss Mary Catherine Griggers Mr. Benjamin Wayne Hall Mr. James Brandon Hardin Miss Josie Marie Holcomb Mr. Robert Lee Johnson II Mr. James Ryan Jones Miss Logan Elizabeth Jones Miss Olsen Katherine Jones Miss Catherine Margaret Kilburg Mr. Kristopher Blaine Kizer Mr. Hunter Angus Phillip Kunzelmann Miss Lundy Childs Lader
Mercer University University of Georgia Georgia Southern University University of Mississippi Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia Southern University Mercer University South Georgia State University Kennesaw State University University of Georgia University of Georgia Valdosta State University Georgia College Mercer University University of Georgia Asbury University Brigham Young University-Idaho Georgia State University University of Georgia Mercer University Piedmont College University of Georgia Georgia Southern University Kennesaw State University University of Alabama Auburn University Valdosta State University Mercer University Kennesaw State Auburn University Georgia Tech Gulf Coast State College Georgia Southern University Coastal Georgia College Georgia College Kennesaw State University Georgia Southern University University of Georgia Berry College Maryville College Georgia Southern University Georgia Southern University Georgia Southern University Georgia Southern University University of Georgia Georgia College
Mr. Kenneth John Langston Mr. Aaron Michael Lanning Mr. Justin Everett LaPradd Mr. John Robert Lester Miss Gabriella Dael Lindau Miss Olivia Jean Little Mr. Malcolm Joseph Mancin Jr. Mr. Robert Cooper Martin Mr. Jordan Lee McCallum Mr. William Henry Middlebrooks Mr. Tyler Michael Mimbs Mr. Titus Jamon Moore Miss Elizabeth Anne Nelson Mr. Elliott Hadden Park Mr. Brandon McCormick Paxton Mr. Ashby Charles Reed Miss Siarra Brielle Reese Mr. William Bozman Reeves Mr. Dillian Christian Rosado Miss Mary Bennet Dunwody Rose II Miss Eleonora Schoch Miss Sydnee Danelle Sconyers Miss Sophie Elizabeth Seneker Mr. Ja’Cobe Tobias Singletary Mr. Paul George Smaha IV Miss Catherine Anne Smith Miss Amelia Hope Squires Miss Mary Rachel Stevenson Miss Macy Grace Stokes Miss Lindsey Rebecca Strickland Mr. Stephen Daniel Summerow Miss Caylee Ann Sutton Mr. Noah Morgan Takac Miss Deja Rae Tharpe Miss Wimberly Brinn Thigpin Mr. Andrew Robert Wanamaker Miss Sara Parker Ware Miss Riley Elisabeth Warren Mr. Garrett Evan West Mr. Benjamin Parker White III Miss Breanna Allene Williams Miss Rachel Nicole Wilson Mr. Seth Armand Wilson Miss Sonya Elizabeth Windham Mr. Patrick Holden Zebell Mr. Hongen Zhang
TBD Columbus State University Georgia Southern University University of Georgia U.S. Navy University of Georgia Augusta University Georgia Tech TBD University of Georgia Georgia College Samford University Centre College Georgia Southern University Mercer University Auburn University University of Alabama University of North Georgia Georgia Southern University Mercer University TBD Georgia Southern University Georgia College Valdosta State University Georgia College Samford University Georgia Southern University Georgia College Kennesaw State University Georgia Southern University Oglethorpe University Auburn University Davidson College Clark Atlanta University Georgia Southern University Mercer University University of Georgia Mercer University Berry College Georgia Military College Appalachian State University Georgia College Valdosta State University Auburn University Mercer University Ohio State University
Class of 2018
92
by the numbers
Graduates
80 51 56 54 %
Eligible for HOPE
AP Scholars
30 attending
different colleges in 10 different states • 301 College Applications • Applications to 107 different schools in 26 states
14
athletes planning to play sports in college
Members of the National Honor Society
1 2 3
Honor Grads
• Georgia Scholar • Dooley Award State Winner • Golden Eagle Winners • Exchange Club Youth of the Month • Students graduating with S.T.E.M. Diploma Endorsements
18,100
hours of Community Service in four years of high school fpdmacon.org // 09
COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS:
Reverend Paul Bankson
It’s a very real joy and privilege to be with you here today. I pretty much feel at home as I am close with several who are on the platform. What made me feel all of my 54 years today was realizing there were a number of the members of this graduating class whose parents were in my young married couples Sunday school class, and I remember celebrating the day of your birth. I am feeling old and, of course, your parents are saying that as well today. This is a big day! It’s a big deal! Finishing high school is a big occasion worthy of celebration. Now I’ll be honest with you, for those of you pursuing college, it’s going to be harder academically. It will be a bigger challenge, but this is a big deal. This is somewhat, in our culture, a rite of passage. This is the way we view your step into adulthood, and we’re very proud of you. Your parents and family who are here crowding this auditorium are very proud of you. I want to congratulate you and your families. Now, in order to get your attention, I thought maybe I could just spend some time telling my favorite Matt Kitchell stories. Matt was a freshman student at Mercer when I was the RUF Campus Minister. Matt made a big impression on me and other students the first night he showed up at RUF when he proceeded at the close of our meeting to shove, what I consider, about two dollars worth of pocket change into his nose. I thought upon that event and I thought, you know, that’s smart of Matt. That’s a great way to get money. Nobody is going to ask for it back. I wondered, maybe that’s part of the curriculum now at FPD, but I doubt that Dr. Barry Shealy would allow it. I want to talk to you today, and I’ll be brief. You are not here to see or hear me, I realize. We’re here to celebrate these graduates, but I do have something I’d like to say, and I do realize this is much like a wedding. I’ve done a number of them, and when I do a wedding, I realize that when I speak to the couple that stands before me, conscious of being overheard, they’re not going remember a word of it, but I hope you get some tidbits.
the 400 in Paris, that was unexpected. And that film, as you might recall if you have seen it, not only focused on Eric Little, it also focused on another athlete of Great Britain named Harold Abrahams. At the end of that film before the screen credits roll, the rest of Eric Little’s life is summed up in two sentences, “Eric Little, missionary, died in occupied China at the end of World War II. All of Scotland mourned.”
What I want to talk to you about today is the idea of glory or success. You want it. I know you do. I want it. Everyone in this room wants it. Your parents and friends want it for you. They want you to know glory and success. They would love for you to make a name for yourself, to leave a mark, to leave a legacy. I was struck afresh with the idea of what glory should really look like through one of my heroes that I really didn’t become acquainted with until I was your age. I was right out of high school, and I saw for the first time what won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1982, Chariots of Fire. I had no idea who Eric Little was, but I learned through that film and he quickly became my hero.
You see, when Eric Little left Scotland for China, Great Britain thought he had lost his mind. The Olympics weren’t then what they are now, but he was a big deal. He was a superstar in his culture and he forsook it to go to China and minister for the sake of the gospel.
Who was Eric Little? Maybe some you know who he was. Certainly the film helps us understand who Little was. Little was the son of PresbyterianScottish missionaries to China. In fact, he himself was born in China. China still claims him to this day. In the Paris Olympics of 1924 Eric Little won gold in the 400 meter dash. Eric was a man of deep and great conviction. He was a believer. He was a Christian. He was a Christ-follower. He had a heart to minister to others through the name of Christ and in the name of Christ. And the film rightly portrays how he refused to run in a qualifying heat for the 100 meter dash, really his best event, out of a conviction that he not dishonor the Lord’s Day, the Sabbath. When he won the gold in
What I want to do for the next few minutes is give you three principles of glory that I think we can learn from Eric Little’s life and ultimately from the God he knew and followed. First principle, use your gifts for God’s glory. That’s really the heart of what I want to say. If you walk away with nothing else, please remember that. It’s interesting how the apostle Paul asks this question in I Corinthians – “What do you have that you did not receive. If you then received it, why do you then boast as if you did not receive it.” What the apostle is saying is, everything that you have is a gift from God, all your mental capacity, the looks that you have, the abilities that you have, all of that is God’s gift. You didn’t choose to have it. He gives it to you, so therefore you ought to use it for His glory. I Corinthians 10:31, “Whatever you drink or eat, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Whatever you do is a platform for bringing Him glory. There is a scene in the film, Chariots of Fire, that didn’t really happen, but I think is true to the spirit of Eric Little. There is a scene in which Little is having a conversation with his sister Jenny and she is challenging him, saying he’s become to immersed in his running and forgotten his calling to become a missionary in China. Then Eric, the character in the film, replies to his sister, Jenny, “God made me fast, and when I run I feel His pleasure.” Some of you are gifted for math, for writing, for singing, for engineering, for research, for law, for running a business, for ministry, for taking care of a family. However God made you, see that as a gift, as a vehicle for bringing Him glory and also see your gifts as a calling to serve your neighbor. Jesus said the first and greatest commandment is to love your God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength and your neighbor as yourself. Neighbor love is using your gifts for God’s glory. Use your gifts for God’s glory. Second, don’t seek glory as an end itself. You’re familiar with the story of ancient Rome, right? The conquering military hero would return to the city and before him would be the conquered and the treasure that he has acquired in his great military victory, and he would be cheered on by the masses. They would put a servant in the chariot with him to whisper in his ear on the route, “Glory is fleeting.” Here is the reality – it all ends today. What do I mean by that? First of all, you will never be gathered again in this way ever again. You may come back for reunions, but not all of you are going to make it. You may be too busy with your job and so forth. As you sit here now, you may be known as the cross country star, the football hero, the academic, the musician. You’ve got an identity. When you go off to different places, nobody knows you as that star. Nobody knows that identity. Your glory is fleeting. That’s ok. That’s life. That’s true for all of us. Eric Little is this tremendous character. I didn’t even know that he existed until they made that movie. If they hadn’t made that movie, I never would have heard of him. As many times as I have sat through the Hall of Presidents at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, I still didn’t know who Chester Arthur was. You know Chester Arthur was a President? He followed James Garfield. Glory is fleeting. Please don’t pursue glory as an end itself. That leads me to my third and final point - get a new definition of glory and success. Jesus’s definition of glory and success was not defined by a title that was earned, or possessions that were acquired, or notoriety. I would submit to you that Jesus’s definition of success was summed up in the word “faithfulness.” You may be familiar with Matthew 25 and the parable of the talents, which a unit of measurement, of currency, and how in the parable Jesus told of the servants who were given a measure of talents, of currency, to invest. To the degree that they were faithful, they were commended by Jesus. That’s what He calls of you – faithfulness, faithfulness to Him, faithfulness to your families, faithfulness to your calling, faithfulness to your church, faithfulness to use your gifts. You see, when Eric Little left for China, he was viewed as a great fool for giving up what could have been a very lucrative life in Scotland. He lived out the words of Jim Elliot, a missionary with whom you might familiar whose famous for saying, “He’s no fool who gives what he cannot keep for that which he cannot lose.”
So I would encourage you to consider how you see your pursuit of glory. I know this school cannot truly define its success by your GPAs or which schools you get in to. This school can define its success thirty, forty, fifty years from now when you are faithful men and women to Christ. I grew up in church. I went to a Christian school. I could hold Sunday School attendance records. When I was in Sunday School as a child, we learned a song about a character named Zacchaeus. I’m not going sing it, but there were motions and everything. “Zacchaeus was a wee little man, a wee little man was he. He climbed up in the sycamore tree for the Lord he wanted to see. As the Savior passed that way, he called up in the tree, and said, ‘Zacchaeus, you come down, for I’m going to your house today.’” If all I learned about Zacchaeus was from the song, basically I would have thought the application was if you are going to parade and you can’t see over the crowd, bring a ladder. And maybe the story of David is just meant to teach me be a good aim with your slingshot. You know what the story of Zacchaeus is about? Zacchaeus was man who knew his own sin, and he wanted to see Jesus because he had a great need. Jesus sees Zacchaeus and says, ‘Zacchaeus come down; I want a relationship with you.’ The Scriptures say of Zacchaeus, that Jesus receives Zacchaeus joyfully. Zacchaeus knew the joy of repentance. My concern for you is that you have gone to FPD, and you’ve heard all these stories; you’ve sat through New Testament and Bible classes, and you thought, “Yeah, that’s kind of neat. I need to be a good person.” That is not what this school is trying to teach you. This school is trying to show you that your greatest need is Christ. You stand in need just like Zacchaeus stood in need. You have no hope of earning God’s favor. God is holy, and righteous, and just, and must deal with sin, but God is also loving, and gracious, and kind. He’s provided for you and for me a substitute, His son, the Lord Jesus Christ. He placed Him on a cross and placed my sin upon Him, punished Him in my place. He died and rose again from the grave and offers forgiveness and eternal life to all who will put their trust in Him. I want to leave you with the words of C.S. Lewis, one of my other heroes. Lewis wrote, “Christianity, if false, is of no importance and, if true, is of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important.” May it not be moderately important to you. I wish you the best. I congratulate you, sincerely on this achievement. I wish God’s blessing on you, your families, and your future.
Reverend Paul Bankson is the Senior Pastor at Houston Lake Presbyterian Church in Warner Robins, Georgia. He was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama. He holds a degree in business administration from Auburn University, a Masters of Divinity, and Doctorate of Divinity from Reformed Theological Seminary. Paul began his career as a campus minister for Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) at the University of Tennessee-Martin. He moved to Macon in 1996 to work with RUF at Mercer and later joined the pastoral staff of First Presbyterian Church in 1999 as an assistant pastor. In 2004, Paul and his family moved to Warner Robins where he served as a church planner and organizing pastor of Houston Lake Presbyterian Church. He and his wife, Connie, have three sons and one daughter-in-law.
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SALUTATORY ADDRESS: Dylan Bridges Welcome, family, friends, and faculty, to the graduation of the FPD Class of 2018, and thank you for coming to celebrate! We’ve all been waiting years for this day. I’m personally ready to get it over with so we can all go get lunch, so I’ll keep my address brief. I am more than honored to stand here representing the FPD Class of 2018. We haven’t always been the most tight-knit class at FPD, but there’s something to be admired about us. We’re a class of artists and athletes, singers and state champions, rebels and record holders, musicians and mathletes, lawyers and leaders. Also, it’s not every graduating class that has the great privilege of including Elon Musk, thanks to Elliott’s senior prediction. I sent him a message, but he was a little too busy to make it today. I think it’s his loss. In all seriousness, I do truly believe that our class has more talent and potential than this school has seen in a very long time. Coach A told us that freshmen year when he was our advisor. Then we promptly disappointed him by coming in last place for Spirit Week up until this year. Yet he still saw greatness in us, and he kept hoping that sooner or later we would see it too. We owe a lot to Coach A, but there are so many others here we also need to thank for seeing that greatness in us when even we could not. Each of you has a caring family and supportive friends standing behind you. I owe a lot to my family - my mom, my dad, my siblings. They’ve all supported me through every major decision in my life. I don’t think my mom has missed coming to a single play performance or award ceremony or anything, even when I told her it wasn’t important. And I owe a lot to my friends for calling me out whenever I do something stupid. Happened a lot, thanks guys. We also ought to thank the teachers here who’ve inspired us. I wouldn’t have such a genuine love of learning if it wasn’t for Mr. Hopper. Or a love of theatre and swordfighting if it wasn’t for Dr. Strickland. Or a love of literature if it wasn’t for Mr. Katzer and his interesting choice of books that magically show up on his bookcase late into the second semester. (He knows what I’m talking about.) I don’t think I’d even have such a genuine love of life if it wasn’t for the boundless enthusiasm and encouragement of Coach Childs. Everyone here has at least one teacher they can thank before they finally leave. I know some of us may be leaving today with regrets. Maybe you feel like you wasted the time and opportunities you had here. Maybe you regret some of your actions. As for me, I regret not getting to know more of you as friends while I was here. For most of high school, we were so focused
attending the University of Georgia
on how different we were from each other. We emphasized that fact, that we’re cliquey, that we can’t get along. But the closer we moved towards the end, the more I realized how wrong that was. We are far more similar than we are different. We are all children of God, regardless of our many backgrounds. We are all members of the Class of 2018, no matter how we feel about that class. And we are all incredibly stressed out for college, no matter how much we try to hide it. This isn’t the day for regrets. This is the day to celebrate each other, our families, and our teachers. This is the day that we make our peace with this chapter of our lives, celebrate the good pages and the bad, and then move on to the next chapter. It may seem terrifying, moving on from here, not knowing what lies ahead. We’re prepared for it though, and we can all trust that God has a plan for each of us, to show the rest of the world our greatness. I know that we’ll be ready when that time comes. Thank you.
VALEDICTORYADDRESS: Cooper Martin Friends, family, teachers, faculty, and all others, today we gather to celebrate what has been many years in the making. Today, the Class of 2018 will graduate. Parents will be proud, tears will be shed, pictures will be taken, and Instagram will inevitably be flooded. But none of that can occur until I finish, so get ready. I have been given the opportunity to speak on behalf of our class, which somehow correlates to having the highest GPA. I’m not sure, I was just told to write a speech. But that being the case, allow me to try and recap our time here at FPD and impart some personal lessons to consider as we move into the next phase of our lives. Class of 2018, what a long strange trip it’s been. Over the years, we have made more memories than I could ever say, or than anyone would want me to say in one speech. In elementary school, we learned basic reading and writing skills, math, and also Origami which I still do whenever I get bored, so thank you Mrs. Darnell. In fifth grade, many of us picked up instruments for the first time, and the last time. To those of us who stayed in band, I would like to extend a special thanks to the parents who dealt with the audibly unpleasant first years. In middle school, we looked forward all year to competing in field day, only to have it taken away in eighth grade. But in high school, we hit our stride. Our high school career has seen us through the whole gamut. In freshman year, we had the legendary group email fiasco. Sophomore year brought with it the stress of AP classes that many of us would learn to call home. After quickly Googling what the Iditarod was after Coach A’s class, I knew we were in for a hard year. But, everything from the constant worrying about forgetting a reading quiz to the infamous group study project prepared us greatly for the rest of high school. However, none of this could prepare us for the perils of AP US History in Junior year. But, wearing our shin-guards, we marched on into Senior year. We marched through our classes to the rhythm of senioritis, but it couldn’t have been too bad, because we made it here today. I could not stand here and talk about the Class of 2018 without mentioning athletics. Over our brief four years, we have claimed state champion titles, broken records, led our teams, and hopefully paved the way for successful teams on and off the field for years to come. But all of these pale in comparison to what is perhaps the greatest comeback story in school history. This did not occur in a playoff game or a state championship, but in the arena that turns ordinary men into legends. This was Spirit Week. You see, our class had set something of a record going into senior year. For six years, we had placed not second, not third, definitely not first, but last. This was a badge of honor that many of us wore proudly on our white-black-and tie-dye class jerseys. But during our senior year, we performed a physical and metaphorical alley-oop, winning Spirit Week and taking the first ever Spirit Cup. You can clap. Now for a change in pace. Because, while it is my job to recap this year, I also get the privilege to share some personal wisdom. Yes, you are about to receive life advice from an 18-year-old. It has been my observation that we tend to focus too much in the future. Take today for instance. We are all here knowing full and well that we are about to leave FPD and go off to college. This, however, should not make us sad. There is a time and a place to think ahead, but there is also a time to celebrate. Let it sink in that we are all gathered here together for one last time, and let us be happy in that. Let us not think to the uncertainties of college yet. No, now
attending the Georgia Institute of Technology
is the time to think about what has been an incredible four years. One of my favorite Latin passages contains the phrase ‘Carpe Diem’ or ‘Seize the Day’. This phrase has been used to defend all manner of reckless action, that is not what I am saying. I am saying seize the day, seize the moment, live in the now. Today let us not be regretful of the past or anxious about the future, but appreciative of this wonderful achievement and all that has gone into creating it. I argue that we all should take a few moments each day to reflect on where we have come from, where we are heading, and devote the rest to simply living. When I think back about FPD and my time spent here, the word ‘family’ comes to mind. While we have been learning such abstract things as hyperbolic trigonometry and declining verbs in different languages, we have also been building friendships. From those we struggle next to in our classes as we try to learn the complexities of advanced courses, to the teachers who have the arduous task of teaching us such a complicated subject, we have grown together as a school and a family. These families are not isolated to the classrooms either. Ask anyone on the cross country team, and they will tell you how invested I am in our team family despite the hills, the heat, and the freshmen. It is in cross country, I came across the phrase ‘communion of sweat;’ that is exactly what any team is. It is a group of people fighting towards a common goal, growing stronger individually and as a family. I see this principle in so many areas of FPD, both athletic and not. We work hard towards the finish line, and in the process, we grow into a family. I am so grateful to all the coaches, teammates, teachers, and students who have made my time at FPD truly memorable and into a second family I will never forget. I do not reminisce just to make people cry but to prove a point. We are all about to move from our FPD home, not our actual home, mom, you still have me for three more months, but our FPD home. As we leave, it is important that we think back to all the memories we have made, the families we will always be a part of, and the lessons FPD has taught us. And so, friends, it is with that I conclude my speech. Take a few moments today to think back to what we, the class of 2018, have been through, and be happy. Today is not the day to be sad that we are leaving, but to rejoice that we were here and are here. Carpe Diem. Thank you.
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Graduation
Legacies VIKING FAMILY
CLASS OF ‘18 GRADUATES & FAMILY ALUMNI
Michael & McKenzie (‘15) Bakkar
Gina Graves Sibley (‘84), Gavin & Diane Graves Bloodworth (‘80)
Christopher (‘16) & Porter Bolles
Conner (‘14) & Dylan Bridges
Shannon Lyles (‘93) & Tucker Bryant, Dana Lyles Whitfield (‘98)
Carine (‘16) & Andrew Cerny
Jennifer Cook Roeder (‘94), Grace & Amanda Cook (‘91)
Saynor Ponder (‘86), Dallis, & Mary Madison Foshee (‘15)
Jackson (‘17), Jacki Frame (‘86), & Scott (‘85) Spivey; Sadie, Cheri Gunnells (‘89), & Rick Frame (‘85)
Bentlie (‘14) & Christopher Grice
Angela Reeves (‘82), Anna, & Madison (‘16) Griffin
Anna (‘16) & Mary Griggers
Christian (‘16) & Josie Holcomb
Olsen Kate Jones & Lauren Guest (‘94) Wrabel
Heather (‘11), Kenneth, & Hollie (‘11) Langston
Bryce (‘15), Kathy Kemper (‘83), & Olivia Little; Hannah Little (‘12) & Matt McCommon (‘12)
Malcomb Mancin Sr. (‘79) & Malcomb Mancin Jr.
Will (‘16), Cooper & Fred (‘79) Martin
Ed (‘75), Henry, & Walker (‘09) Middlebrooks
Christian (‘14), Titus, Micah (‘12), & Darron (‘13) Moore
Jennifer Richardson (‘89) & Elizabeth Nelson
Scott (‘86) Park, Debbie Park (‘83) Tomlin, Elliott & Brannen (‘98) Park
Luci Allen (‘12), Nathan (‘10), Ashby, Matthew (‘06), & Lizzie (‘16) Reed
Sydney (‘16) & Siarra Reese
Mary Bennet Dunwody Rose (‘90) & Mary Bennet Dunwody Rose II
Elizabeth (‘14) & Catherine Smith
Mary Rachel & Heather Trupia (‘91) Stevenson
Sunday (‘16) & Gracie Stokes
Regan (‘15) & Lindsey Strickland
John Gordon (‘15), Wimberly & Rana Ballard (‘85) Thigpin
Jessica Wheeler (‘06) & Riley Warren
Breanna & Brian (‘91) Williams
Scott (‘82) & Nicole Wilson
SENIOR RECOGNITION ACADEMIC Valedictorian - Cooper Martin Salutatorian - Dylan Bridges Class President - Henry Middlebrooks Senior Superlatives - Henry Middlebrooks, Cooper Martin, Sadie Frame, Vivianna Chang, Olivia Little, Sam Bass Star Student / Teacher - Cooper Martin / Matthew Hopper Georgia Scholar - Evan Correa
Best Citizen Award: Sam Bass and Vivianna Chang
Golden Eagle Award Winners - Olsen Kate Jones, Art; John Drinkwater, Honorable Mention in Science Honor Council Moderator - Cooper Martin Peyton Anderson Scholarship Winner - Hunter Kunzelmann SERVICE Exchange Club Youth of the Month - Cooper Martin and Evan Correa Most Community Service Hours - John Drinkwater Prudential Spirit Award - Sadie Frame FPD Best Citizen Award - Sam Bass and Vivianna Chang
Star Teacher & Student: Matthew Hopper and Cooper Martin
FINE ARTS Director’s Award, Theatre - Mary Bennet Rose Mentor Awards, Theatre - Dylan Bridges and Mary Bennet Rose Volunteer Award, Theatre - Erin Brown Kiwanas Club Art Competition - Dallis Foshee, first place; Olivia Little, honorable mention John Philip Sousa Award, Band - Andrew Cerney Girls Solo, Literary Competition - Mary Bennet Rose, first place Extemporaneous Speaking, Literary Competition - Andy Wanamaker, second place
Senior Female & Male Athletes of the Year: Sadie Frame and Titus More
ATHLETICS Male Outstanding Athlete - Titus Moore Female Outstanding Athlete - Sadie Frame Dooley Award Nominees - Garrett West and Sadie Frame Dooley Award State Winner - Sadie Frame Macon Sports Hall of Fame Scholar Athletes - Cooper Martin and Sadie Frame Playing Sports in College - Wilson Andress, Gavin Bloodworth, Brady Buher, Dalton Cox, Maurice Gordon, Robert Johnson, Ryan Jones, Titus Moore, Elizabeth Nelson, Brandon Paxton, Ja’Cobe Singletary, Stephen Summerow, Noah Takac, Garrett West
Georgia Scholar: Evan Correa
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Graduation
HONOR GRADUATES
Mary Brett Anderson*
Wilson Andress*
Sam Bass*
Olivia Boggess*
Porter Bolles*
Dylan Bridges*
Daria Brown*
Erin Brown*
Tucker Bryant*
Brady Buher*
Abigail Butler
Andrew Cerny*
Vivianna Chang*
Grace Cook*
Evan Correa*
Carter Cusson*
John Drinkwater*
Madisyn Earls
Phillip Engel*
Caitlin Farr
Dallis Foshee
Sadie Frame*
Mary Griggers
Ben Hall*
*With Distinction
Josie Holcomb*
Hunter Kunzelmann*
Lundy Lader
John Lester
Olivia Little*
Cooper Martin*
Henry Middlebrooks
Tyler Mimbs
Elizabeth Nelson*
Siarra Reese
Mary Bennet Rose
Sophie Seneker
Paul Smaha*
Amelia Squires*
Mary Rachel Stevenson
Gracie Stokes
Lindsey Strickland*
Stephen Summerow
Caylee Ann Sutton*
Noah Takac
Deja Tharpe
Wimberly Thigpin
Andy Wanamaker*
Sara Parker Ware*
Riley Warren
Garrett West
Nicole Wilson
Elizabeth Windham*
Patrick Zebell*
David Zhang*
*With Distinction
fpdmacon.org // 19
Feature
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
FPD TENNIS COURTS February 15, 2018
After days of rainy weather, the clouds parted for a beautiful day for the opening of the new FPD Tennis Courts. The morning began with student-athletes hosting a prayer walk from the old courts to the new ones and placing a cross at the corner of the first court. Later, friends and families gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony and reception honoring the donors who made the new courts possible. FPD tennis players then took to the courts for their first home match, finishing off the day with a win.
Court Names Phase 1 Complete¢
1&2 3 4 5 6 7&8
Danner Family Courts Terrell Family Court Johnson Family Court Sutton Acura Court Day/Fulk Family Court Johnson Girls Doubles Courts
The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony marked the completion of Phase 1. Additional gifts are needed to add bathrooms, storage, lighting, and other facility and landscaping needs. For more information, contact Cheri Frame, Enrollment and Advancement Director, or Greg Moore, FPD Athletic Director and Associate Advancement Director.
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Feature
Spring Break in China Over spring break, a group of FPD students and teachers did more than just go to the beach or watch Netflix at home. They traveled across the world to China and spent over a week touring different cities and FPD’s sister school, Xiehe School. Six students along with FPD faculty members Sarah Futo, Lisa Spear, and Shane Hall were able to experience this amazing trip.
The trip began with a tour of Beijing and work in an orphanage home called New Hope Foster Home. It takes in children with medical needs they can treat. The two days spent there involved helping with any needs around the orphanage and playing with the children. FPD students spent the night in yurts, outdoor rounded tents, near the home. While in Beijing they also toured the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Wangfuging street. Once they arrived in Guangzhou, a city in southern China, the FPD students met their host students from the Xiehe School. The FPD students stayed with their host families and spent their days with their host students while at Xiehe. They were able to experience living with a Chinese family and eating several meals together. While talking with Mrs. Futo, she said “It’s really cool to me, as a teacher, to see teenagers are the same wherever you go in the world.” This was the second trip in three years that FPD students have been able to visit Xiehe, and FPD plans to continue this incredible adventure for students.
- Lundy Lader
Lundy Lader (‘18) & Katie Hatcher (‘21)
My trip This past spring break, I had the privilege of going across the world to China with FPD students and faculty. I had never been to China before - I had never left the continent before - and it was certainly an amazing experience and one I would highly recommend! (Even with the twelve-hour time change and the incredibly long flight!) On the first day we arrived in China, all we did was eat dinner and go to sleep, we were so tired. On the second day, we were able to get our hands dirty with mission work. The first few days we were in Beijing, where we stayed at an orphanage for young, sick children. We were able to play with the kids and help the volunteers and nannies with some of their workload. Even though most of the kids there did not speak much (if any) English, we were still able to have a great time with the kids! The next day we were able to do some real exploring. In the morning, we took a ski lift to the top of the Great Wall of China and got to hike some of it. We had a incredible view of the mountains and even took a sled ride down! That afternoon, we visited Tiananmen Square and Mau’s Tomb, and then toured the Forbidden City, where the ancient emperors lived and worked. Seeing all the history was such an outstanding cultural experience, and one I’ll never forget. The next day, we flew to Guangzhou, where FPD’s sister school, the Xiehe School, is located. Immediately after landing, we drove to the school and met our host families. Everyone was so kind and welcoming - a great feeling when visiting a foreign country. During our stay in Guangzhou, we visited many of the kids’ classes and even got to visit their elementary school and kindergarten. On our last day, we climbed to the top of Canton Tower - the tallest tower in Guangzhou - and even rode a roller coaster they had on top! One thing I definitely wasn’t expecting in China (besides the amazing food) was how similar Chinese and American teens live. Other than the undeniable fact that Guangzhou is a much bigger city than Macon, the students at Xiehe live very similar to how the average FPD student does. They went to school, went to the mall, did homework, spent time with their families, even played basketball and soccer! I could go on and on about how amazing and sweet each and every student and adult was to us as well! My experience in China was definitely one for which I am very thankful. This was such a great international trip, and I would highly recommend it to anyone! I’m so thankful for FPD for offering this trip, for Xiehe School for allowing us to come to their campus, for the FPD and Xiehe students who made it such a joy, and most of all, to the teachers who accompanied us and made this whole trip possible!
- Katie Hatcher
Students who are interested in participating in the next FPD exchange trip to China can contact Sarah Futo or Lisa Spear.
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Feature In February 2018, FPD welcomed a joint accreditation team representing SAIS, AdvancED, and ACSI. The team was joined on campus by representatives from ACSI’s national office and CESA. The joint team’s visit was part of FPD’s five-year accreditation renewal process.
They gave a unanimous recommendation for re-accreditation!
What is
ACCREDITATION and why does it matter for a school?
- Dr. Barry Shealy, FPD Assistant Headmaster
Accreditation gives parents assurance of quality and helps guide schools’ improvement process. It is a voluntary process that includes accountability to (1) a recognized set of standards and (2) continuous school self-study and improvement. Accreditation also supports the college admission process, facilitates transfer of credits between schools, and gives students and teachers eligibility to various programs. For example, high school graduates of schools with state recognized accreditation are automatically eligible for the HOPE Scholarship.
What are the accreditation organizations? Each accreditation agency has a set of standards that address their distinct characteristics.
AdvancED provides broad USDOE and internationally recognized standards. This accreditation is the most widely recognized internationally and often opens doors for schools and students that other agencies do not. Association for Christian Schools International (ACSI) is the largest organization of evangelical Christian schools, serving over 20,000 schools internationally. Their standards include accountability to such Christian school distinctives as biblical worldview, spiritual and character formation, spiritually growing and mission-oriented faculty, and service to others. ACSI also recognizes outstanding schools with an Exemplary designation. FPD has been nominated for that designation.
Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) helps ensure that the interests and distinctive characteristics of independent and Christian schools are addressed in standards and processes.
The Council for Educational Standards and Accountability (CESA) is an organization for strong collegepreparatory, Christian schools. They have established a set of standards that fit on top of regional accreditation. These standards address the soundness and consistency of Christian mission and verify that the school maintains strong college-preparatory academic practices and performance, board governance, and is fiscally sound.
What is the process for accreditation? An accredited school regularly engages in self-study and planning for improvement. Every five years, the school receives a visit from the
- Commendations Included – •
Strongly consistent mission-based program across all elements of the school and buy-in across all constituencies.
•
Individual initiatives including instructional support, technology implementation, S.T.E.M. and Fine Arts diploma endorsements, and community service.
•
Curriculum, instruction, and assessment – including the quality, management, variety of program, and faculty competence.
•
Pervasive family and community culture.
•
Strong and stable leadership and decision-making process.
•
Relationship among faculty and between faculty and administration.
•
Strong professional development culture enthusiastically embraced by faculty. (Some team members suggested it could be a national model.)
•
Strong and well-appreciated balance of academics, fine arts, and athletics.
•
Financial stewardship and sustainability with strong financial analysis and planning.
•
Pervasive and exemplary incorporation of Biblical worldview thinking.
accreditation organization that consists of five educators trained in the accreditation process. During the two years prior to the visit, the school conducts a comprehensive self-study that evaluates student performance, current educational research and practice, surveys of constituent groups, documentation of standards compliance, and strategic planning. The visiting team chair visits six months prior to the team visit to review standards compliance, where the school is in the self-study process, and verify the school is ready for the team visit. The school then finalizes the self-study including a five-year school improvement plan. When the team visits, they observe classes, conduct interviews, and write a response to the self-study and standards compliance. The team’s report and recommendation then go to committees or boards of the various associations for approval.
What were the results of FPD’s accreditation review? The teams from all four agencies recommended FPD’s continued accreditation and certification through 2023. SAIS, ACSI, and CESA boards have met and confirmed these recommendations. The AdvancED/SACS Board will meet during the summer. The ACSI national team members recommended FPD for the designation of Exemplary Accreditation. This is ACSI’s highest accreditation level and has only been granted to a dozen or so schools nationally.
Accreditation is a voluntary process that includes accountability to a recognized set of standards and continuous school self-study and improvement.
Some of our students enjoyed dining with guests from the accreditation organizations.
fpdmacon.org // 25
On Campus
Student Achievement
- above & beyond -
HIGH SCHOOL AWARDS Governor’s Honors Semi-finalists: Hannah Ferguson for Math Governor’s Honors Finalist: Mac Garvin for Agricultural Science, Austin Murray for Music Golden Eagle Nominees: Olsen Kate Jones, Art; Garrett West, Athletics; Sadie Frame, Citizenship; Mary Bennet Rose, Drama; Evan Correa, English, Eleonora Schoch, Foreign Language; Amelia Squires, Journalism; Cooper Martin, Math; Andrew Cerny, Music; John Drinkwater, Science; Sam Bass, Technology Daughters of the American Revolution American History Award: Evan Floyd Daughters of the American Revolution Citizenship Award: Payton Bullington
Chelsea Latimer
Girls & Boys State Representatives: Emily Turner & Mac Garvin Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership: Camden Lashley Ponder Family Scholarship: Gracie Matthews Andy Bridges Memorial Scholarship: Jansyn Samples
Named 2018 Teacher of the Year
James Tate Girardeau Scholarship: Karsen Ochs
FPD is very honored to recognize Mrs. Chelsea Latimer as FPD’s 2018 Teacher of the Year!
Judy Jones Family Scholarship: Molly Lee
The Teacher of the Year award is given in memory of Mr. William Harris Bragg. Steve and Ginger Bragg wanted to remember their dad in a way that recognizes an FPD teacher’s commitment to honor Christ and make a difference in students’ lives. The criteria for selection include: Christian character, professional excellence, concern for students, and commitment to our school. Accolades from peers and students: • “Her door is always open, and students know that she will hear them out and respond with grace and wisdom.” • “She loves the Lord and truly wants to share that love for Jesus with other people. Her personality is one of the kindest I’ve ever met. Her beautiful spirit illuminates so many paths for success for students in the future, and her gracious soul is a gift to all who encounter it.” • “I am a senior, which means I’ve had everyone as a teacher, and I know firsthand that no one does their job better. She has not only allowed us to have fun and enjoy Psychology, her true intention is for us to learn and make good grades. She has made 6th period a class that everyone truly looks forward to every day.”
McKay Family Scholarship: Avery Kemper WRAP English Exam, Excellence: Holly Burns, Sarah Bray, Jake Smaha, Caroline Rutledge, Christina Crosby, Bailey Jarrard Georgia Certificate of Merit: Abigail Dean, Hannah Ferguson, Collier Griffin, Haley Harden, Anna Mercer Willingham Furman Scholars: Jansyn Samples, Marshall Danner, Anna Mercer Willingham, Katie White, Paris Copeland, Ann Wu, Haley Harden, Abigail Dean Presbyterian College Junior Fellows Program: Abigail Dean, Ann Wu, Anna Mercer Willingham, Collier Griffin, Haley Harden, Hannah Ferguson, Jansyn Samples, Karsen Ochs, Katie White, Marshall Danner, Mia Ferro, Molly Lee, Payton Bullington Wofford College Scholars: Payton Bullington, Marshall Danner, Abigail Dean, Hannah Ferguson, Haley Harden, Molly Lee, Karsen Ochs, Jansyn Samples, Katie White, Anna Mercer Willingham, Ann Wu Salem College Book Award: Abigail Dean Sewanee Award for Excellence: Marshall Danner
MIDDLE SCHOOL AWARDS Middle School Speech Bee: Morgan Gleaton, first; David Reeves, second; Anna Foster, third Regional Science Fair: Mason Kelley & Hayden Prady, second; Kate Paulin, Laura Chan, and Tate Garrison, second Judy Jones Family Scholarship: Jamiah Tolbert Gil Cutright Memorial Award: Camden Smith Patti Fuchs Cup: Callie Jarrard Book Challenge: Madison English, Clayton Burnett, Clair Gardner, Faith Layton Short Story Award: Ashlee Alexander, Georgia Mercer, Lea Qi, Shelby Greene, Callie Jarrard, Natalie Paxton, Lola Grace Wilson, Olivia Copeland Daughters of The American Revolution, American History Award: Olivia Copeland
FPD Introduces
Reading Boost
Beginning in the 2018-2019 school year, FPD students in elementary, middle, or high school who need extra help with their reading skills will be able to participate in Reading Boost. This special program uses the Orton-Gillingham method, a On Campus multi-sensory approach that enables learners to capitalize on their strengths while remediating deficits.
The Orton-Gillingham method was originally developed for students with dyslexic tendencies, but has been shown to help students with an array of related reading challenges. The approach is based on analyzing and manipulating speech sounds in words. Reading Boost will improve: • phonemic awareness – the ability to manipulate the sounds that make up spoken language • phonics skills – the understanding that there are relationships between letters and sounds • fluency – reading with accuracy, speed, and expression
Similar to FPD’s Instructional Support, Reading Boost will be hosted during the school day. Students will meet for small group instruction led by Orton-Gillingham certified teachers Cathy Knight or Kelly Bullington. Parents who are interested can contact their child’s teacher or principal for more information. Teachers may also reach out to parents if they feel the program would be of benefit to their child. “We have seen this approach work wonders in our young students who struggle with dyslexic tendencies,” said FPD Elementary Principal, Wade Putnal. “Until now, parents had to seek help after school from tutors. We’re excited to provide that help during the school day.”
Welcome to the new Viking Clubhouse! FPD’s Extended Day for 3K - 2nd Grade is now the Viking Clubhouse! At the Viking Clubhouse our youngest Vikings can enjoy games, outdoor play, S.T.E.A.M. activities, and creative fun. The program combines with The Viking Crew for 3rd - 5th graders to provide engaging after-school and summer options for our preschool and elementary students. Summer hours for the Viking Clubhouse and Viking Crew are 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. School-day hours are 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. For more information visit www.fpdmacon.org/enrichmentprograms.
fpdmacon.org // 27
Graduation Athletics
LADY VIKING SOCCER
State Champs
Saturday afternoon, May 12, the Lady Vikings soccer team continued their season-long domination of opponents shutting out Athens Academy 2-0 for their first state title since the 2012 season. On that hot spring day, the Lady Vikings returned to the place of their last loss, Mercer’s Five Star Stadium, where they fell to Wesleyan at the 2017 state championship match. They had not lost a game since and knew this year was their year. The game time temperature was hovering near 90 degrees, with the on-field temperature in the triple digits, but the Lady Vikings showed no signs of fatigue in either half. They consistently overwhelmed the Lady Spartans
and, for most of the match, had possession, keeping the pressure constant. Sophomore Maggie Davis got the Lady Vikings on the board with 14:08 remaining in the first half and junior Jansyn Samples scored the second goal early in the second half to give the Lady Vikings an insurance goal. Their solid defence kept Athens Academy at bay and, in the end, made way for an incredible undefeated season. “We did not want to feel how we felt last year,” said senior Sadie Frame. “We wanted to come off knowing that we won 23 straight games and didn’t have a single loss. And that’s what we did; that’s what we accomplished today.”
FPD Athletics Ranked
Number One in Middle Georgia by Regions Bank Directors Cup After another wonderful year of Viking sports action, FPD athletics was named the top private school athletic program in Middle Georgia for the 2017-2018 academic year by the Regions Bank Directors Cup. “I am so proud of our tremendous student-athletes and coaches for their hard work, dedication, and mostly for their willingness to participate in school sports,” said Greg Moore, FPD’s Athletic Director. “The entire Viking Nation celebrates this fantastic accomplishment. What a blessing!” The purpose of the Regions Bank Directors Cup is to recognize athletic departments in all GHSA classifications that have excelled and shown superior performance. Twenty-five GHSA sports are counted in the standings, with ranks based on each school’s eight highest-scoring sports for each gender. FPD’s male varsity teams scored 506 points, placing them second in Class-A male teams in Georgia. FPD’s female “It’s been a long time coming,” said Head Coach Joshua Trieste. “We’ve entered this game undefeated a couple times and not won it, so these girls just made my season.” The Lady Vikings outscored their opponents 23-0 during the playoffs and completed a historic undefeated season with a record of 23-0, outscoring their opponents 170-6. The seniors leave with a two-year-unbeaten streak at home, a championship banner, and a season for the ages.
varsity teams placed just outside Georgia’s Class-A, top-10 list, with teams scoring 303 points overall. Their combined score of 809 points ranked FPD number one for Class-A private schools in Middle Georgia and eighth in the state. FPD has consistently been one of the Regions Bank Directors Cup top-10 athletic programs in boys and girls sports since joining the GHSA in 2010.
fpdmacon.org // 29
Athletics
sports recap WINTER & SPRING
BOYS BASKETBALL The 2017-2018 season for the Vikings saw the end of some great senior basketball careers and the beginning of others. Moe Gordon, who signed with Gulf Coast State, was named for the third time to the 7A-All-Region Team. Henry Middlebrooks averaged over 10 points a game, making honorable mention for the All-Region Team. Freshman newcomer Jordan Jones was named to the second team All-Region Team. The conclusion of the basketball season, four-year head coach Michael Walton stepped down to pursue other professional opportunities outside of education. FPD selected Gavin Chapman, former head coach at Brewton Parker College, to replace Coach Walton for the 2018-2019 season.
GIRLS BASKETBALL The Lady Vikings played hard and competed on the court every game. The lone senior on the team this season, Sadie Frame, was selected to the 7A-All-Region Team. Frame was the leading scorer for the Lady Vikings. The team will return to the court next season with a lot of experience and look to make a playoff push in Class-A Private.
SWIMMING The Vikings had another great season in the pool led by head coach Elizabeth Leslein. Vivianna Chang led the way for the Lady Vikings, finishing 11th in the A-AAA GHSA Swim Championships at Georgia Tech with a time of 55.22 in the 100 free. She would also place 9th overall in the state in the 100 backstroke with a time of 1:01.52. Other top Lady Viking swimmers were Madelyn Baltz and Mandy Huang. For the Vikings Swim Team, Austin Murray placed 8th in the A-AAA GHSA Swim Championships at Georgia Tech in the 500 freestyle. Other top Viking swimmers included Josh Lincoln and Jacob Morton.
WRESTLING The 2017-2018 FPD wrestling season saw our wrestlers have a lot of success on the mat led by head coach Ken Garvin. The Vikings had five wrestlers compete in the GHSA Sectionals which were hosted by FPD. The five wrestlers who competed in the sectional tournament were Thomas Anthony (152), Phillip Carlton (160), Josh Raines (182), Seth Wilson (195), and Ty Turley (220). Raines and Wilson would advance to compete in the GHSA Class-A Wrestling State Championship, and Raines would finish 6th in the 182 weight class.
BASEBALL The Vikings advanced to the GHSA Final Four for the first time in program history and ended the season with the second most wins in a season with 25. They finished the season ranked fourth in the state according to the Georgia Dugout Club, and MaxPreps ranked them as a top-35 team in all classifications. The Vikings had nine players make the 7A-All-Region Team – Tyler Mimbs, Garrett West, Hudson Mimbs, Harrison Aulds, Barrett Barkley, Ryan Jones, Dalton Cox, Gavin Bloodworth, and Noah Takac. Several Vikings will continue their careers at the next level – Takac (Davidson University), Jones (Maryville College), Bloodworth (South Georgia State), West (Berry College), and Cox (Georgia Southern).
GOLF The Vikings, led by John Walker and Joe Childs, had another great season on the course and were ranked 27th in the nation by the National High School Golf Association. The Vikings concluded the season as Area-Runner-Up and Class-A State Runner-Up. They were led by Georgia Southern signee Wilson Andress and Asbury signee Brady Buher, along with Luke Dascher, Jay Spivey, Reid Wilson, and Trey Mixon.
GYMNASTICS The Lady Vikings, led by head coach Chelsea Latimer, had a great season. The girls finished in first place in four meets and competed whole-heartedly to improve daily with their coaches. The team included Shelby Greene, Samantha Meeks, Maci Lefholz, Holly Hatcher, Ava Walker, Isabel Stokes, and Lilysue Holcomb.
BOYS TENNIS The Vikings enjoyed the new tennis courts and dominated their way to a 22-win season and GHSA Final Four appearance. They would also claim the Mid-Georgia Invitational and Viking Slam Championships during the season. Four Vikings represented FPD on the All-Area Team – Christian Tinkey, Halen Fulk, Camden Lashley, and Thomas Johnson. The Vikings return everyone next season except senior standout Parker White.
GIRLS TENNIS The Lady Vikings had a season to remember. They defeated Stratford in the Area-1 Tournament for the first time in a decade to claim the third seed in the GHSA Tennis Playoffs. Prior to the area tournament, they would claim the Mid-Georgia Invitational and Viking Slam Championships. They completed the 2018 season on the new tennis courts with 17 wins. Collier Griffin and McKenzie Gleaton were named to the All-Area Tennis Team. Every Lady Viking will
LACROSSE
return to the court in 2019 looking to carry their momentum into the next season.
The Vikings had a historic year under first year head coach Ryan Kelly. They finished the season with 10 wins, qualified and hosted the opening round of the Class-A Grey Cup Tournament and GHSA Playoffs. As FPD’s newest Varsity sport, the lacrosse team is growing
TRACK & FIELD
in momentum, led by seniors Bryant Beall, Brandon Paxton, Tucker
The Vikings set records this season and were led by Samford Track
Bryant, Seth Wilson, John Lester, and Jarred Brooks.
signee Titus Moore. Moore set records in the 110m hurdles (13.80), 300m hurdles (38.47), and long jump (22-07.50). He was also the second highest points athlete in the GHSA State Championship Track
GIRLS SOCCER The Lady Vikings had a phenominal season, finishing an undefeated season as state champions (see page 28). Led by coach Josh Trieste, the team was 23-0 at the end of the season, outscoring their opponents 170-6. The team was led by seniors Caylee Ann Sutton, Elizabeth Windham, Amelia Squires, Lindsey
Meet. Other Vikings to compete in the state championship were Ja’Cobe Singletary (shot put), Robert Johnson (triple jump), Cooper Martin and Blake Jones (4 x 400m relay), Cassie Sutton (pole vault), Moe Register (discus & shot put), Avery Kemper (1600m & 3200m), and Reese Lefholz (1600m). Senior Sadie Frame also qualified for state but did not compete due to the soccer state championship game on the same day.
Strickland, Sadie Frame, Olsen Kate Jones, Sara Parker Ware, and Elizabeth Nelson.
BOYS SOCCER The Vikings competed hard on the field this season for 10 wins. They were led by Oglethorpe University signee Stephen Summerow, Henry Middlebrooks, Robert Johnson, Noah Lyu, Austin Cox, and Josh Raines. They had a big win over Georgia Military who was ranked in the top 10 in the Border Classic in Augusta. Coach Trieste is excited for the future of the boys soccer team.
For more Viking sports information, visit www.fpdvikings.com. fpdmacon.org // 31
STUDENT-ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS
In May 2018, Sadie Frame (‘18) was named the state-wide female recipient of the four-year Vince J. Dooley Award scholarship of $1,000 per year. This scholarship program annually awards one male and one female athlete from the state of Georgia who display oustanding character, teamwork, and citizenship. Frame is FPD’s first Dooley Award Recipient since Fran Johnson won the award in 2011. Frame distinguished herself as a four-sport athlete during her high school career, including leading her team to the GHSA Softball State Championship in 2016 and the GHSA Soccer State Championship in 2018. She was region champion twice and three-time state qualifier in the 100m hurdles along with being a state qualifier in the 300m hurdles. In the classroom, Frame maintained a 4.0 GPA while taking five AP classes. In the community, she participated in mission trips to orphanages in Mexico, was the school volunteer organizer for the Tim Tebow Foundation “Night to Shine,” a grade leader for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the organizer of the inaugural Dick Frame 5K benefitting ALS. Frame was crowned the 2017 International Cherry Blossom Festival Queen and named FPD’s Wendy’s High School Heisman winner that same year.
SADIE FRAME
DOOLEY AWARD WINNER
As part the Dooley Award, Frame received $500 to donate to the charitable organization of her choice. She chose the ALS Foundation of Georgia.
Coach Dick Frame, who has coached hurdlers at FPD for almost 40 years, may have said it best, “I’ve had 25 state champions in the hurdles, and Titus is by far and away the best we’ve ever seen.” FPD phenom and Samford Track & Field signee, Titus Moore, concluded his high school athletic career with an incredible record-breaking season. At the GHSA State Track & Field Championship meet in Rome, Titus set new FPD records in the 300m hurdles (38.47) and long jump (2207.50). These added to his earlier record in the 110m hurdles (13.80), the fifth fastest in the nation according to Milesplit. In addition to these new records, Moore was also a member of the 2015 4x400m relay team that holds the FPD record of 42.27. However, Moore’s talents are not limited to the track. Prior to the start of the track season, Moore set new records as a member of the football team. He broke the single-game reception record of 12, with 14 receptions in the region-crossover game. He claimed 15 touchdown receptions, breaking another single-season record and tied the singleseason reception record of 76 before the conclusion of the season.
TITUS MOORE
Record Breaker
As the final chapter on his high school athletic career concludes, it is the start of a new chapter for Moore as he continues his athletic career on the track team at Samford University in the fall.
RESERVE THE
BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE Reserved seating for the 2018 football season now available.
FPD is looking forward to another great season of Viking football and with that comes the opportunity for our families to purchase reserved seats at the George S. Johnson Memorial Stadium. Introduced prior to the 2013 season, reserved seats are limited and are tiered in price based on their position within the stands. Each purchase comes with premium parking and easy game access. “Our reserved seats are the best seats in the house,” said FPD Athletic Director, Greg Moore. “For our fans who want prime viewing of the games, these seats are the way to go. Plus, the nearby parking makes entry and exit very easy.” Seat purchases are tax deductible, minus a $30 game entry fee. Proceeds benefit the stadium renovation and continued football program improvements. To purchase seats, visit our website at www.fpdmacon.org/footballreservedseating. Seats are sold on a first come, first serve basis.
2018 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE (regular Season)=
DATE VS LOCATION August 10 vs. Rutland HS (Scrimmage) FPD 7:30 p.m. August 24 Howard HS Bibb Co. Complex 7:30 p.m. August 31 Mt. Vernon Pres FPD 7:30 p.m. Sept. 7 Hancock Central FPD 7:30 p.m. Sept. 14 Brookstone Columbus 7:30 p.m. Sept. 28 Twiggs County Jeffersonville 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 (HC) Wilkinson County FPD 7:30 p.m. Oct. 12 Stratford Academy FPD 7:30 p.m. Oct. 19 Mt. De Sales Macon 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26 (SR) Tattnall FPD 7:30 p.m. Nov. 2 Region Crossover Game FPD 7:30 p.m. HC - Homecoming Game; SR - Senior Night
Fine Arts
FINEST
FPD art students consistently win awards at local competitions and shows. Time, dedication, and God-given talent provide the foundation for this award-winning program.
Each year we delight in seeing the new works of student art adorn the walls of our hallways and galleries. Some pieces take your breath away while others inspire a smile with their whimsicality. At the pinnacle of our art program are our AP Art classes – 2D Design, 3D Design, and Drawing. At the helm is Nancy Butler, FPD’s high school art teacher. She will be the first to tell you that AP Art classes are not for the faint of heart. They are challenging courses that require dedication and commitment, but the end results are well worth the effort. Each year, FPD’s AP art students take home awards at the Kiwanis Club Art Competition and Golden Eagles, not to mention college-level art skills that they carry with them for life. Here is a look at FPD’s award-winning AP art program.
CHOOSING A CONCENTRATION
CHALLENGING – BUT WORTH IT
“My concentration is based on the phrase, ‘An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumstances. The thread may stretch or tangle, but will never break,’” says senior Josie Holcomb. “This is an old Chinese saying. My sister was adopted from China, so that’s how the idea started. All of my paintings have been based on Chinese culture and American culture.”
Looking back on her senior year in AP Art, Breanna Williams notes, “Mrs. Butler keeps us on task and sets deadlines that don’t allow for play, but despite that, she keeps an easygoing and comfortable environment. I believe that this class prepared me for college-level art because I have been exposed to many means of art and have worked under the pressure of deadlines and expectations.” Classmate Catherine Smith agrees, “Mrs. Butler’s teaching style really allows everyone who takes her class to succeed to the best of their ability. She takes the time to ask what you want to do, instead of telling you what to do! Mrs. Butler goes out of her way to really get to know us individually and have a relationship with us.”
In an AP art course, students work on a portfolio that will later be submitted to the College Board. It contains three sections – Quality, Breadth, and Concentration. The concentration portion entails a student-selected theme around which all of their pieces revolve. The purpose is for the student to demonstrate ability to work in a sustained way and to further develop and refine his or her own ideas instead of simply responding to a teacher-directed assignment. Each student is encouraged to find his or her own personal voice and style.
Likewise, Olsen Kate Jones chose a theme dear to her heart, Casa Hogar, an orphanage in Mexico at which she has served on several mission trips. To complete her project, she auctioned off her artwork at the First Presbyterian Church Missions Conference with proceeds going to Casa Hogar.
AP JUDGES At the end of the course, students submit their portfolio to a College Board panel of three to four experienced art teachers and college professors. Drawing and two-dimensional design students must include five actual pieces for the Quality section, while those in three-dimensional design must submit digital images of five pieces. For the Breadth portion, twelve pieces are required. Finally, a complete body of work showing cohesiveness is required for the Concentration. The College Board judges score each section separately. If there are wide variations in those scores, the section is then submitted to another group until there is consensus. The three sections are then averaged together for a final AP score.
2018
ART AWARDS Fine Art Kiwanas Club Art Competition - Dallis Foshee, first place; Olivia Little, honorable mention Golden Eagle Competition - Olsen Kate Jones, winner
Band
THOUGHTS FOR PEERS
GMEA District XI Honor Jazz Band - Austin Murray, Cooper Martin
As this year’s AP class looked toward the completion of their time in the FPD AP art program, several of the students offered a few suggestions for their peers considering the courses.
GMEA District XI Clinic Band (MS) - Justin Chang, Macy Fuller
“You will spend a lot of time,” remarks Holcomb, “but it is great, and I recommend everyone to take a few art classes at some time. Stay on top of your work and don’t get behind!” “AP art is probably the most time-consuming class at FPD. If you have the commitment for the whole year, I would definitely suggest challenging yourself and take it,” concurs Smith. “The reward that comes with finishing a project is awesome.”
GMEA District XI Honor Band (HS) - Riley Warren, Christian Crosby, Owen Huggins, Austin Murray, Cooper Martin, Dalton Self, Landon Hilyer, Andrew Cerny, Aaron Lanning GMEA District Honor Band (MS) - Cooper Rohrbeck South Region Band - Austin Murray, Owen Huggins, Christian Crosby, Cooper Martin, Aaron Lanning, Riley Warren, Andrew Cerny GMEA All State Jazz Band – Austin Murray GMEA All State Band - Aaron Lanning, Austin Murray, Andrew Cerny GMEA Large Group Performance Evaluation - Symphonic Band Excellent Rating, Wind Ensemble Excellent Rating Stateline Showdown Marching Invitational - Superior Rating Festival and 1st Place in Class A Competition Sound Of Silver Marching Competition - Superior Rating Festival and 1st Place in Class A Competition John Philip Sousa Award - Andrew Cerny
Theatre Middle School Volunteer Award - Kaitlyn Dean Mentor Awards - Dylan Bridges and Mary Bennet Rose Volunteer Award - Erin Brown Serlio Award for Technical Theatre - Loren Oliver Director’s Award - Mary Bennet Rose More awards can be found at www.fpdmacon.org/theatreawards.
Literary Girls Solo - Mary Bennet Rose, first place Boys Quartet - Jacobe Singletary, Seth Wilson, Robert Johnson, Klein Woods - second place Extemporaneous Speaking - Andy Wanamaker, second place For her Concentration, Breanna Williams used kitchen tools instead of paintbrushes to convey her theme of family and cooking.
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Alumni
1975
Alumni Notes
Lou Wingfield Childs and her daughter, Katy Mallory, are launching a new baby product, SlumberPod, this summer. Lou writes, “After two years of product development, working with suppliers and manufacturers, and passing a barrage of safety testing, we are excited to announce SlumberPod will be available via Kickstarter in July and on Amazon this fall.”
1977
Bo Bobinski and Rick Sutton, along with their wives, Karen Bobinski and Diana Sutton, spent four days during May in New Orleans for Jazz Fest 2018. Bo writes, “Over the weekend, we enjoyed a multitude of musical acts highlighted by Sting, Bonnie Raitt, and the ultimate 70’s showman, Rod Stewart. He can still get a crowd going after all these years!”
Sally Kite Lowery is retiring after 34 years as a fourth grade teacher in the South Carolina public school system. After graduating from FPD, she earned her education degree from the University of Georgia and went on to earn her master’s degree from the University of South Carolina. She has served as Teacher of the Year and was Nationally Board Certified in 2001. She is looking forward to traveling with her husband and volunteering in Columbia, South Carolina where she resides.
1981 David Lilliston, his wife Betsy, and son Drew enjoyed the Bulldogs Rose Bowl victory. David and Betsy reside in Watkinsville, Georgia where he is a financial advisor at Raymond James and Betsy is an art teacher at Athens Academy. Drew is a senior at Ole Miss.
1976 Sanford Jones McAllister writes that several FPD alumni met in Colonial Williamsburg in February 2018. Pictured are Lou Wingfield Childs, Carol McKenney Farmer, Linda and Joe Montgomery (friends of Sissy Swann Ivey), Sissy Swann Ivey, Leslie Bradford Sullivan, Suzanne DeBoer Seeger, and Sanford McAllister.
1978 Lauren Geddings Halvorsen celebrated the marriage of her youngest daughter, Haverly Ann, on March 31, 2018. Lauren writes, “We are thrilled to have another wonderful ‘son’ in our family, Caleb Aiken. We are now true empty nesters and looking forward to lots of traveling!”
1987 Kenny Letts started a sports promotions company a few years ago, and it has now grown to be the largest MMA / boxing promotions company in the southeast.
Alumni Spotlight
From tireless volunteer to town mayor Jenny Hunt (‘80)
Jenny Wooddall Hunt, Mayor of Bell Buckle, Tennessee, was recently honored by the Tennessee Tourism Department for her work in her community and the state of Tennessee. Jenny, a 1980 graduate of FPD, notes that she came into her role as mayor through “a very unintended road.” Now, thanks to her leadership, the small town that she and her family call home is receiving state-wide recognition for its historic character and small town charm that encourage tourism while controlling growth. When Hunt moved to Bell Buckle in 1994 with her husband, Joe, she had no intention of going into politics. “I was pregnant with our second daughter. We decided it was best to devote my time to our girls while my husband built his businesses,” remembers Hunt. “However, my personality was not going to allow me to enjoy staying home without goals and missions, so I began volunteering in town.” About the time Hunt’s family moved to Bell Buckle, the Town Council voted to appropriate a half-cent sales tax towards building a town park at the site of an old school property that had been abandoned for over 30 years. Hunt began researching the history of the site, working with other locals, and surveying town residents to find out what was really important to everyone to have in a park. The finished product earned the Governor’s Stewardship Award in 2008, and Hunt was the runner-up for the Keep Tennessee Beautiful Award of Excellence for Community Enhancement and Volunteerism. After the completion of the park, Hunt assisted with grant writing for parks, the chamber of commerce, police department, and others. She volunteered for positions on the board of the Chamber of Commerce as well as the Bell Buckle RC-MoonPie 10 Mile & 5K Run. Her career in politics began with the role of alderman in 2006 and later as vice mayor in 2008. In 2016, the previous town mayor resigned, and Hunt was honored to take on the job. As mayor, Hunt works diligently to the protect the town’s character while still maintaining the strength of the economy. “I believe my main goal should be what got me elected – protect Bell Buckle from those who would want to change what is precious to those who live here,” notes Hunt. “We are very small – 405 people live here. We are old – incorporated in 1856. We preserve our past
with a passion. We are successful – our Chamber’s events bring in over 200,000 during event days, plus a steady visitor stream to our historic downtown daily.” With all that success, people started noticing. The town is surrounded by thousands of acres of farmland that drew the attention of many developers who wanted to take advantage of Bell Buckle’s popularity. Hunt and the other residents of the small town want to keep the developers at bay. In order to do so, Hunt and her team have implemented tough zoning ordinances and prioritized planning. As Hunt and her community work to keep retail chains out, they also put their efforts behind keeping local businesses strong. They maintain historic integrity and uniqueness while protecting everything from the store fronts to the scenic byways. “Too many times the master vision is about what money can be gained in the short term rather than having a vision and a master plan that fits and compliments that which should be appreciated for now and the future,” notes Hunt. That commitment has kept Bell Buckle’s tourism economy strong. Their Chamber’s description is “Close to home but a world away.” Hunt believes that is key to the future of her beloved community. When asked why people should visit Bell Buckle, Hunt ardently says, “Honestly, everybody loves Bell Buckle! It brings back memories of what life was like before schedules were so overwhelming. The ambiance of the town immediately takes over and soothes the soul.”
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Alumni Spotlight
Sports Hall of Fame Inductee
Catherine Rader Wood (‘91)
Catherine with FPD Athletic Director, Greg Moore, at the Macon Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
What are your favorite memories as a student at FPD? Catherine Rader Wood was inducted into the Macon Sports Hall of Fame on May 10, 2018 for her athletic achievements in basketball at FPD and Wofford. As a senior she led the Vikings to the GISA Class 3A Basketball Championships in 1991, scoring 34 of her team’s 41 points in a win over Windsor. That 34-point output is the second-highest, single-game scoring game in program history. She is FPD’s all-time career scoring leader with 1,455 points between 1987-1991 and is also the singleseason scoring leader during the 1990-91 season, when she scored 567 points. Wood was an all-state performer in 1990 and 1991, all-region performer in 1989, 1990 and 1991 and was the team MVP those three seasons as well. She was the Atlanta Tipoff Club’s GISA Player of the Year in 1991 and also that club’s GISA State Tournament MVP in 1991. Her jersey has been retired by FPD. She is one of only two female athletes to ever receive that honor and just one of seven overall at the school. Wood graduated from Wofford College with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and now works in pharmaceutical sales. It was an honor to catch up with Catherine about her memories of being an FPD Viking.
There are too many memories to mention, but I loved Bible classes, Spirit Week and all the activity period programs. We had some unique speakers like “Okefenokee Joe,” Elvis Presley’s step-brother Rick Stanley, and other Christian speakers. I loved the support we had on our basketball team from the parents and coaches. Before we went to our state playoffs, the team told Coach Ed if we went to the state championship he had to wear a coat and tie, and he finally did! I will also never forget Mary Jane Bateman, Wendy Johnson, and Linda Cloaninger cooking breakfasts for us almost weekly. Our team was truly a family; we loved each other and still do!
Do you still keep in touch with any of your FPD teammates and friends? Yes, many of my girlfriends get together every year around Thanksgiving. I even had the pleasure to babysit Kelly’s daughter, Bebe, when she was in town for a visit and still communicate with my buddy, Edna, almost weekly. Meg Johnson Southerland recently took care of me when I had foot surgery at OrthoGeorgia. Our whole team had a special bond, and I immediately felt a peace come over me when I saw her pretty face in the operating room!
What are some of the things you learned at FPD that you continue to carry out in your life? I try to instill lessons I was taught at FPD in my four children. My mission is faith and family first and changing the world for the better for God’s glory. Life is so precious, and we only have a short time here to make a difference. I’m so grateful and thankful! Praise the Lord!
1988
1997
Tommy Brown graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in December 2017 with a Master’s of Science in manufacturing engineering. His wife, Charlene, was selected “Teacher of the Year” for 2017-2018 at James Marlowe Elementary School in Pasco County, Florida. His daughter, Betsy, is a senior at the University of South Florida majoring in health sciences and will graduate in 2019. His son, Thomas, is a junior at the University of South Florida majoring in theatre and will graduate in 2020.
Mindy Hall and Lloyd Van Dyke were married on April 28, 2018 in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Mindy is a pediatric speech pathologist at Mission Children’s Hospital, and Lloyd works for Acosta Merchandising.
Sarah Girardeau Wright and her children G.W. (10), Lucy Kate (6), and Sadie Rae (3) enjoyed a day at the Birmingham Zoo.
1999
Leah Benton Lee and Nancy Anderson Honeycutt posed for a picture with their mothers, Donna Benton and Bobbye Anderson, and daughters, Molly Lee and Anna Katherine Honeycutt, before sending their daughters off to FPD’s 2018 Prom.
1992 Alan Pitts and his wife, Laici, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Lillian Kate, in September. She joins older brother, Jonah, in rounding out the family.
Jantzen Gianfrancesco is living in South Pasadena, California with his wife Tamami and two son Aiven (5) and August (2). Jantzen is working as a video editor for multiple sports television networks and won this year’s Sports Emmy Award for “Outstanding Long Form Editing.” This is the fourth straight year that Jantzen has won an “Outstanding Editing” award.
Jennifer Dyes Mullis graduated Mercer University in 2007 and married husband, Stephen Mullis, in 2009. Before moving to Savannah in 2013, Jennifer worked at Covenant Care Services for three years. Now, living in Savannah, Jennifer writes that she is “blessed to be a stay-at-home mom and to be the co-coordinator for the local Mothers of Preschoolers that is chartered by First Presbyterian Church of Pooler.”
2002 Kathleen Glass married Jimmy Lee LeFever on September 16, 2018 at the Boxwood Estate in Mocksville, North Carolina. Three FPD alumni served as bridesmaids in the wedding, friends Maribeth Hamrick Bosshardt ‘02 and Mary Jo Causey Simmons ‘02, and sister, Stephanie Glass Ernst ‘00.
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2003 Justin and Kendall Dressner Lyles are moving to the Dayton, Ohio area where Justin accepted a career development reassignment at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Justin writes, “Kendall and I are excited about the move and new opportunities for our family. Our two sons are growing fast. Ezekiel is five and starting Kindergarten this fall, and Timothy will be two on the 4th of July.”
Kris Hattaway Vaughn and her husband, Ben, are living in Monroe County and enjoying spending time with their precious daughter, Hattie.
2007 Patrick Barry and his wife, Amber, had their first child, Arthur Patrick Barry V (Abel). The family lives in Forsyth, Georgia. Patrick sells Commercial Real Estate and Amber teaches fourth grade at Sonny Carter.
Andrea Becker Walter and her husband, David, welcomed Charlotte Grace on March 12, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee.
2009
2004 Robert Cabe is an Assistant District Attorney for the Macon Judicial Circuit. He and his wife, Becky, are the happy parents of two beautiful children, Bobby and Georgia. In addition to practicing law, Robert has opened, owns, and operates the Roberta Grill restaurant in Roberta, Georgia.
2005 Matthew Darley and his wife, Ashley, were married in 2014. Ashley is an RN in Macon. Matthew is currently employed at Howard’s Pawn Shop as Firearms Manager. He recently obtained his U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License for chartered fishing trips out of Steinhatchee, Florida and opened Pollywog Fishing Charters. The name of the busines is based on a poem Matthew’s father read to him when Matthew was a child.
Natalie Souther graduated from Georgia Tech in May 2014 with a degree in industrial engineering and worked as a healthcare consultant, traveling to hospitals all over the country and implementing business improvement initiatives. After two years, she decided to pursue a degree in nursing to learn the clinical side of the hospital. She graduated from Emory’s 16-month Accelerated BSN program in December and is now working in the Medical ICU at Emory University Hospital.
Kyle Stapleton is working for SunTrust corporation, playing pro Frisbee, and planning to hike the Appalachian Trail next year.
2010
2012
JT Hoover graduated from Georgia College and State University in 2014 and moved to Rock Hill, South Carolina where he met his wife, Lauren. They were married in 2016 and, in 2017, welcomed in their daughter, Micah Kate. In February 2018, the family moved up to Durham, North Carolina where JT now serves as Director of Student Ministries at a P.C.A. church.
Hannah Little and Matt McCommon were married on March 10, 2018 at Southern Bridle Farms. Both graduated from the University of Georgia in 2016. In 2017, Hannah received her master’s in communication disorders and is working as a speech-language pathologist at Heard Elementary. Matt received his master’s in accounting and is working at Mauldin and Jenkins. Attendants from FPD included Brian McCommon ‘04, Matthew Tyson ‘12, Reid Sawyer ‘12, Michael Canipe ‘12, Bryce Little ‘15, Rachel Robertson ‘12, Olivia Little ‘18, Avery Kemper ‘21, and Amelia Kemper ‘26.
Claire Crawford graduated from Wesleyan College in May with a degree in early childhood education. In the fall, she will serve as a second grade teacher at Springdale Elementary school and an assistant softball coach at FPD.
2014 Sara Walsh and Will Patterson (’07) were married on June 23, 2018 in Scaly Mountain, North Carolina.
2011 Devin Lavender graduated magna cum laude from the University of Georgia School of Pharmacy in May 2017. He accepted a PGY1 residency with the Veterans Administration Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Recently, Devin accepted a PGY2 position at UGA beginning in July.
2013 Two months after his 2016 wedding to his wife Katie, Garrett Childers was diagnosed with a more intense mutation of mitochondrial disease. Garrett writes, “Kate is made perfectly for me. I’ll always be humbled by God’s movements. I didn’t know I’d have to face a mutation of mitochondrial disease; she didn’t either…I thank God each breath I have for how he uses us like a Rubix Cube, turning and clicking things together at a molecular level, from the smallest of ants to all the galaxies we don’t even see. If it weren’t for that belief, I don’t know where I’d be spiritually. The Holy Spirit is the mortar to our marriage. God wraps His arms around us as pressure, while Jesus solidifies it all, not just marriage but life in general. As C.S. Lewis said, ‘there are far far better things ahead than anything we leave behind.’”
What’s going on in the Viking Nation? We love to hear from our alumni. If you have any news or updates, please submit them to Eric Latimer, FPD Alumni Coordinator, at eric.latimer@fpdmacon.org. www.facebook.com/fpdalumni.
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Our alumni venture out across the nation and around the world when they head off to college, but they are always part of the Viking Nation. We wanted to check in with a few members of the class of 2017 after their first year at college.
Jackson Spivey College: Elon University Major: Psychology & Cinema double major Are there skills or abilities that you now use that you gained during high school? I feel like FPD taught me how to handle stress. I did so many things in high school, but never once did I feel overwhelmed because the faculty was always so supportive, and I was never given more than I could handle. College is filled with so many new challenges and experiences that can be extremely stress inducing, but because of the stress management skills I learned at FPD, I feel like I am equipped to handle anything. How do you feel FPD helped you build a strong foundation of faith? I feel like FPD made me spiritually mature for my age. I didn’t realize it while I was there, but I know a lot about not only Christianity but also other religions. I know more about the Bible than most of the people I have met. This allows me to have very intelligent conversations about my faith, and to be able to come to conclusions on my own. Advice for the Class of 2018: I would tell the Class of 2018 not to worry. Leaving home is scary and leaving FPD is sad, but everything works out in the end!
Emily Rutledge College: Auburn University Major: Elementary Education How do you feel FPD prepared you academically for college? The work in many of my AP and honors classes is very similar to work I am doing now. The way the teachers walked me through how to succeed in harder classes taught me more than they could ever know. Looking back, what are your thoughts on your years at FPD? FPD is simply the best. From the administration down, the school is run in a way that truly wants every student to succeed, but more than that, for everyone who walks through the doors to know who they are in Christ. I had teachers who challenged me in my walk with the Lord and really wanted to know me as a person, not just as a student. What would you say to someone considering FPD: Growing up at FPD was invaluable to me. To someone who is considering going, ask me about my elementary teachers who are even now investing in me as I am learning how to teach in my own classroom. Ask me about my years in middle school when I gained confidence in who I am and was taught that I am capable of anything I set my mind to. Ask me about my coaches who pushed me farther than I ever dreamed I could go. Ask me about my best friends who encourage me every day to walk in a manner worthy of the calling I have received (Ephesians 4:1). Ask me about my high school years when I was challenged and learned more through that than I possibly could have learned any other way. It’s safe to say, if I had to do it all over again, I’d choose the same thing every single time.
Dane Wiggins
Jack Yang
College: Georgia College Major: Business
College: Texas Christian University Major: Business & History
How do you feel FPD helped you build a strong foundation of faith? FPD gave me a strong backbone for my Christian faith. One of my first priorities when I came to the GCSU campus was to find a Christian group to plug myself into. Looking back, what are your thoughts on your years at FPD? The best thing I can say about FPD is how much I appreciate having come from such an incredible place. In college, I am able to learn about other friends’ schools and their relationships with their classmates and teachers. When I told people how close I was to my teachers and friends at FPD, they looked at me like I was crazy. I didn’t realize how different the experience was at FPD. My teachers were thought of as much closer to me than all my friends could say about their teachers.
Jack is an FPD international student alumnus. Looking back, what are your thoughts on your years at FPD? FPD gave me a special experience. FPD is very different from the high schools in China. I really like that everyone is so friendly to each other, teachers and students. Advice for international students considering FPD? FPD has the resources to help you go to a great American university, but it is really up to you. Learn to manage your free time; do not just simply waste all your time on leisure activities. Walk out from your comfort zone and make more American friends. Try to learn American culture, and then you will realize that you are so lucky to have the opportunity to study abroad.
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Events
19th
ANNUAL FPD GOLF TOURNAMENT Thank you to our volunteers, sponsors, and participants.
Gross Winners
Save the date for next year! April 15, 2019 Net Winners
SAVE THE DATE September 22, 2018
Upcoming Fall Events FPD Night at the Macon Bacon Game - August 3 First Day of School - August 9 New Family Dinner - September 7 Fall Vikingfest - September 7 Clay Shoot - September 22 Homecoming - October 5 & 6
FPD CLAY SHOOT 2018
www.fpdmacon.org/clayshoot
More events can be found online. www.fpdmacon.org/calendar
Reunion Years: 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013
More Information at: www.fpdmacon.org/homecoming
5671 Calvin Drive Macon, GA 31210 www.fpdmacon.org
r e m Sum ! s p m Ca
iscovery
@F
ter for D PD’s Cen
Over 40 summer camps available for students in 3K - 12th grade. Register online at www.fpdmacon.org/centerfordiscovery.