The Ridge - Spring 2019

THE

RIDGE SPRING 2019

110 YEARS OF BLUE RIDGE SCHOOL

HEADMASTER TRIP DARRIN

GREETINGS FROM ST. GEORGE

I

t’s hard to believe that Blue Ridge

clear is the tremendous role people have had in

School is celebrating its 110th

our success: Hatcher Williams, Jordan Chur-

anniversary. While technologies,

chill, Bill Davis, and Frank DeAngelis to name

fashion, and lifestyles—even the

only a few from our storied history. That tradi-

nature of the School—have changed

tion continues, as we recognize Jamie Bourland

considerably since 1909, two things have

(page 18) for 25 years of service to Blue Ridge.

remained steadfast: 1) the commitment of the men and women of Blue Ridge to

As we look into year 111 and beyond, our team is

its students and 2) the incredible impact

already working on both the successful conclu-

campus life has on all who are lucky

sion of our 2020 Strategic Plan and the creation

enough to enjoy it.

of our next vision for 2025. “People and Place” will again be central to all we do, with partic-

You will see in our feature article “A

ular eye to remaining both true to our roots,

Mountain of Memories” (page 4) that

unique among our peers, and fully embracing

Blue Ridge School’s strong foundation

the natural assets of the campus.

was laid by the passion of The Rev. George P. Mayo, a man committed to the

In that spirit, in this issue you will see topics

development of a school for underserved

that bridge 2020 and 2025, particularly our

children and the unwavering drive to ac-

plans to repurpose Williams Library into a new

complish his goals. The Rev. Dewey Lov-

dining hall (page 14) as a dynamic new focal

ing, a graduate of Blue Ridge, followed in

point of the BRS community. That initiative

Mayo’s commitment to the students and

will impact literally every person on campus,

the School in the face of adversity.

every day, and will serve as the launch pad for all that we aspire to in these next few years.

After a brief account of the life of Blue Ridge’s history as an industrial school, some famil-

Meanwhile, I am grateful that our present day

iar names give us their perspectives on the

is a prosperous one, and that we can look into

following decades. Peter Holland ’66 recalls

the future of our school with both optimism and

the earliest years as a college-prep boarding

pride. Thank you for your continuing endorse-

school. Classroom legends John Young and Jim

ment of BRS, and we hope you enjoy this issue of

Niederberger lead us through the ’70s and ’80s,

The Ridge and all it celebrates. I would welcome

respectively. Jamie Miller ’94 introduces us

your feedback and ideas about any subject,

to the campus families of the ’90s, while Paul

anytime.

Fehlner tells us how Blue Ridge offered a safe haven from the tumultuous first decade of the

Go Barons!

new millenium. Finally, Hans Hermanson ’97 considers where we are now in the 2010s.

While these individuals note many accomplishments of the School over the decades, what is

Trip Darrin

CONTENTS A MOUNTAIN OF MEMORIES

Celebrating 110 years of Blue Ridge School

4

SETTING OUR PLACES

14

THE WILLIAMS LEGACY

17

FACULTY PROFILE: JAMIE BOURLAND

18

THE ANNUAL BLUE & WHITE BASH

19

OWN THE MOMENT

20

IN MEMORIAM

22

The Plan for the new Dining Hall and Library

Varsity Basketball wins the State Title

BLUE RIDGE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION: Mr. William “Trip” Darrin III, Headmaster Mr. Franklin Daniels, Associate Headmaster for External Affairs Dr. Kevin Miller, Associate Headmaster for Student Outcomes Mr. Vinton Bruton, Assistant Headmaster for Co-Curricular Programs

THE RIDGE: John Dudley, Editor/Graphic Designer/Photographer Dan Dunsmore, Contributing Editor Katie Cooper, Contributor Contributing Writers: Jay Atkinson, Peter Holland ’66, John Young, Jim Neiderberger, Jamie Miller ’94, Paul Fehlner, and Hans Hermanson.

WWW.BLUERIDGESCHOOL.COM

THE BLUE RIDGE SCHOOL MISSION: We focus on helping boys reach their potential through personalized, structured, innovative learning practices in a college-preparatory, all-boarding community.

Blue Ridge School admits qualifi d young men of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. Blue Ridge School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, financi l assistance and loan programs, athletic and other administered programs.

ON THE COVER: An aerial view of campus during the late 1950s, between the construction of the gym (now the student center) in 1956 and the destruction of Old Mayo Hall in 1959.

A MOUNTAIN OF

MEMORIES

110 YEARS OF BLUE RIDGE SCHOOL THAT BLUE RIDGE SCHOOL HAS REACHED ITS 110TH YEAR OF EXISTENCE IS AN AMAZING ACHIEVEMENT. WE HAVE FIRMLY ENTERED OUR SECOND CENTURY ON A DISTINCT PATH AS A BOARDING SCHOOL FOR BOYS SEEKING A “PERSONALIZED, STRUCTURED, INNOVATIVE” EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE. AS WE LOOK BACK ON THE PATH THAT HAS LED US FROM 1909 TO 2019, SEVERAL NOTEWORTHY PEOPLE OFFER THEIR PERSPECTIVES ON BLUE RIDGE SCHOOL’S STORIED HISTORY. SOME NAMES YOU WILL LIKELY RECOGNIZE; OTHERS YOU MIGHT NOT. THIS IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A COMPREHENSIVE NOR EXHAUSTIVE ACCOUNT OF THE SCHOOL BUT A FOND REMEMBRANCE. WE HOPE YOU ENJOY IT. —THE EDITOR

THE INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL

Astor) as “the greatest beggar who ever lived, but

taught farming, carpentry, and blacksmithing,

he was a good beggar!”

and the girls were taught cooking, sewing, and

Nearly 50 years following the Civil War, which

By 1908, Mayo had devised a plan for the forma-

livestock, and produced apple butter in October.

tion of a school, convinced the Diocese to pro-

The “Shop Beside the Stream” was where Miss

ceed, secured the initial funding, acquired land,

May Hancock and Miss Alice Bingham taught

and begun construction on its fi st buildings.

girls to make a variety of textile goods, including

Mayo was a man of boundless energy, driven by

baby clothes, aprons, table linen, woven blankets,

the Holy Spirit and a calling to help everyone

and hook rugs. One of the rugs was presented to

in need. In 1909, Blue Ridge Industrial School

First Lady Lou Henry Hoover during her resi-

was founded and Rev. Mayo was installed as its

dence in the White House.

raged around the Commonwealth, and nearly 100 years after the founding of the University of Virginia, a preeminent bastion of education and learning, the hollows of Greene County remained isolated from the rest of the world when Rev. George P. Mayo began buying land there to build an industrial school. The Virginia Diocese of the Episcopal Church had seen a need in the region and had recruited Mayo to research the proposition.

Mayo had a knack for building lasting friendships with residents of the area: farmers, school teachers, and small business owners. His straightforward demeanor, honesty, friendliness, and work ethic resonated with everyone he met. His demeanor was appreciated in all circles—from ditch diggers to socialites. He was described by Nancy Langhorne Shaw (who

4

3

earned fame in the English Parliament as Lady

housekeeping. They grew vegetables, cared for

Superintendent, a post he would hold until 1944.

The School’s mission was to provide vocational

Students cooked, cleaned, and maintained

education for boys and girls of the area, and by

the campus, which left little time for athletics.

January 1910, classes had begun for 35 students.

However, the School’s farm provided much of the food eaten by the students and faculty. Joseph

Elizabeth Copeland Norfleet ays of Mayo in her

Johnston worked at the School during the late

book Blue Ridge School: Samaritans of the Moun-

1930s and recalled that coffee and flour ere

tains, “George P. Mayo’s law was that there were

among the few things the School needed to buy,

no bad people, only people needing education.”

that the School sold what it produced but did not

Mayo was described as a “tall, genial man with

need, and that they ate meat only once a week—

[a] kind smile, big voice, and gentle manners.

sometimes rabbit that the students themselves had trapped.

As students at an industrial school, the boys were

The hardscrapple spirit of the School is reflec ed

manner, administrators brought in people of

when children were delivered to the School from

in the reaction to the Great Flu epidemic on 1918:

all ages who needed training to prosper in an

a diocese or judicial decree with no warning.

“nobody at the School got it, but classes were

increasingly modern world. This shift alarmed

Mrs. Norfleet w ote, “The faculty and trustees

suspended so that the students could volunteer

some members of the faculty and Board. At the

recognized that the admission of underpriv-

their services to perform the farm chores for

same time, the county was building roads deeper

ileged, city-bred children created a heteroge-

neighbors who were ill or in the armed services.

into the hidden hollows allowing more students

neous student body which had to be governed by

The students picked apples and packed them,

rigorous disciplines very different from the old

harvested beans and soybeans, husked corn, and

esprit de corps which had been established in the

prepared cane for molasses.”

beginning.”

The cornerstone for Gibson Memorial Chapel

Despite the changing face of the student body

was laid on August 14, 1929, and it was com-

and the many challenges at hand, the gregarious

pleted in 1932. The Chapel’s plan is attributed

and warm-hearted Mr. Loving was a perfect fi

to legendary American architect Ralph Adams

for the School. In the fi st issue of his tenure, he

Cram. It quickly became a central character in

wrote in the School newspaper The Mountain

the lives of the students. In addition to assisting

Echo, “... my vision is that of a great big family

in the construction and outfi ting of the new

working together, studying together, playing

building, they attended regular services, sang in

together, worshiping God together.”

the choir, and celebrated special holidays within those rugged, stone walls.

Many men and women contributed heartily to the School during the early years. Husbands and

Many of the early years were hard. In January

wives—even their children—took on multiple

1918, Richards Hall (also referred to as Recita-

roles and eagerly set out to complete whatever

tion Hall)—with its

task they faced. But there

dormitories, audi-

was much turnover.

torium, classrooms,

Many teachers came to

and library—burned

Blue Ridge excited for the

to the ground. In the

challenge only to be over-

basement had been

whelmed by the responsi-

75 bushels of potatoes

bility and the remoteness.

and 2,000 cans of

Many who stayed for

fruits and vegetables;

years on end recall their

this alone would have

sense of calling. Working

been a tremendous

with the students of Blue

loss on a campus of

Ridge School was not a

hungry boys and girls.

job; it was a purpose.

By the 1930s, the

However, the School

term “industrial” as it

struggled by trying to be

related to schools had

too many things to too many people. It was a

taken on a negative connotation. After

(Top) The Rev. George P. Mayo astride his beloved horse Nellie. (Bottom) The main gate of the BRIS as it

research and debate, the appeared soon after construction.

School began using the

pre-school, an industrial school, a reformatory, a farm, a village. As Mrs. Nor-

simplified name “Blue Rid e School” by 1942,

the opportunity to attend public schools—an

fleet aid in her book, “Blue Ridge was attempt-

but the official cha e in the charter did not

opportunity which they took.

ing too much for such a small school. Dividing approximately 110 children into kindergarten,

occur until 1947.

After the brief term of Rev. Stanley Ashton,

grade school, and high school, not to mention the

The communities of rural Greene County were

Rev. Dewey C. Loving (BRIS ’23) was appointed

exigences of boarding and domiciling such a dis-

undergoing signifi ant change during this

Superintendent of the School in 1946. He arrived

parate student body of students of both sexes and

time. Many mountain families displaced by the

at a time when the changing tide of the School

a wide span of ages, make for an unwieldy and

construction of the Blue Ridge Parkway had been

was particularly noticeable. More and more

costly operation. Moreover, a staff compe ent

“confronted with demands of communal living,

local children were attending public school, and

and versatile enough to meet the needs of the

moral responsibilities, and social amenities

their spots at Blue Ridge were increasingly fille

School’s open-arms policy could eventually make

they were unprepared to meet.” In a missionary

by children of the State. There were occasions

financial demands th t the School’s supportive

5

resources could not meet.”

prospects of the School were ready to deliver

in September of 1962 with 66 boys and a lean yet

their report. They presented the Board with four

determined faculty.

On September 30, 1959, as the School was con-

options: liquidate the School’s assets and use the

sidering its future, the future was thrust upon it.

proceeds to fund scholarships at other Diocesan

The buildings on the campus were showing their

A tremendous tornado struck the campus and

schools; convert the facilities into a Diocesan

age. The only new addition was the small lake.

damaged many buildings. Roofs and porches

retreat or summer camp; develop a junior college

The lake was important and remains so today

were torn from buildings. Windows were broken,

on the site; or develop a secondary school for

as a tranquil yet iconic feature that adorns our

and most of the campus’ trees were snapped or

boys. In February 1961, the Board voted to create

beautiful campus. The academic building was

uprooted. Thanks to the tenacity of Mrs. Will

a new school devoted to the individualized edu-

holding up well, and of course the chapel and

Gregg, a member of the New York Auxiliary and

cation of boys.

Battle House stood strong. The most important and dominant structure on campus was old Mayo Hall—a three-story dark brown dilapidated clapboard behemoth that housed the administrative offic , an auditorium, several classrooms, and dormitory alcoves with bunk beds on the second floo . The third-floor ttic was a storage area and living space for hundreds of bats.

The School began with 8th, 9th, 10th grades and later a few juniors. But even in the fi st fall, BRS fielded a ootball team. All of the uniforms and equipment were donated by Carl Deane, who owned Downtown Athletic store [current faculty Brandon Deane’s father]. Mr. Dean was a longtime friend of Headmaster Hatcher Williams.

The team played four games in 1962—all at their opponent’s school because the fields t Blue Ridge were loaded with rocks. It took several

The Rev. Dewey Loving with students outside Gibson Chapel.

off their demerits o finally clear the pl ying

of the Board of Trustees, more than 80 vol-

In May 1961, the School that had for more than

fields o host football and soccer games in St.

unteers from across the region (including the

50 years been Blue Ridge School was ended, and

George.

entire maintenance crews of Miller School and

the new Blue Ridge School was set to begin.

Woodberry Forest) came to campus in early No-

Walsh Dormitory was completed in 1964. The

vember to clear broken trees and begin repairing

facility housed all the boys under one roof and

damaged buildings. By Christmas, the campus was again looking like its old self—minus dozens of trees.

The change of the literal landscape reflec ed the unseen changes coming to the academic landscape of the School. Consultants hired by

3

years and countless penalized students working

THE 1960s

BY PETER HOLLAND ’66 FORMER DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS The original Blue Ridge School founded by the Reverend Doctor George Mayo in 1909 closed its

the Board of Trustees to evaluate the future

doors in 1960. The School we know today began

1907 - Reverend George Pickett Mayo begins visiting several successful industrial schools to gather useful information. The Board unanimously adopts his plans and gives Rev. Mayo authority to solicit funds to purchase land and to construct the first buildings.

1910 - The School opens in January with approximately 35 students. After Neve Hall is built, Blue Ridge quickly adds the Old Farm House, office, commissary, laundry, clothing bureau, machine house, poultry house, blacksmith’s shop, and mill.

1909 - The Blue Ridge Industrial School is founded with Rev. Mayo as the superintendent, a position he would hold until his retirement in 1944.

1912 - Richards Hall is constructed. It houses five classrooms and a 200-seat auditorium. It is destroyed by a fire six years later.

this made the faculty’s monitoring tasks a whole lot easier. Teachers and their families also enjoyed the new “up-dated” faculty apartments.

Old Mayo Hall remained vital to the campus for classes and office space. The old aud orium with many broken seats was used to show semi-new movies on Saturday nights with a portable screen and a reel-to-reel movie projector. (New students

1918 - Blue Ridge holds its first commencement with two graduates being awarded diplomas.

1920 - In August, Mayo Hall is dedicated in honor of Rev. Mayo. The building is the center of activity at the School until 1959 when it is destroyed by a tornado.

1928 - Enrollment grows to 165 students.

may need to Google reel-to-reel movie

horsemen. Back then students were

screening.) The bats who lived in the

encouraged and allowed to swim in the

attic of old Mayo would frequently fl

lake when the weather permitted as long

about the auditorium on these eve-

as a faculty lifeguard was watching. Movie

nings. The stately yet decrepit and tired

trips into Charlottesville were rare, but

building was finally demolished in th

almost every Saturday there was a bus

summer of 1967 as the new Mayo Hall

trip to town. Of course, like today, these ex-

was then completed.

cursions to Charlottesville had to include a faculty member to supervise. But one

The fi st few years of the School were at

thing that was very different back then

times tenuous at best. Blue Ridge had a

was student bus drivers. Yes. Believe it

unique mission, with aged facilities and

or not in the ’60s and early ’70s, students

not much money. Headmaster Hatcher

drove these large vehicles filled with b ys

C. Williams was totally committed to his

on the skinny, windy roads from Blue

new philosophy of teaching boys. He and

Ridge to Charlottesville and beyond. It

the faculty and staff ere determined

could have even been a 16-year old sopho-

that the School was going to survive

more. In those days, Fashion Square Mall

even when that prospect looked mighty

was a grass covered hill. “Town trips” went

dim at times. When Mr. Williams talked

to Barracks Road Shopping Center where

about BRS to prospective families,

there were stores like Peoples Drug Store,

donors or just about anyone who would

Ed Michtom’s Men’s Shop, and a couple of

listen, he spoke not of what “could be”

restaurants. Boys with no demerits and a

but of what “would be.”

few dollars to spend had to wear a coat and

Mr. Williams was successful in attract-

Hatcher C. Williams

tie to “Barracks Road,” where they mostly watched girls and just kind of loitered in and around the stores. Blue Ridge boys

ing several exceptionally talented teach-

Hatcher was also able to attract Reverend John

ers to fulfill the mi sion. Mr. Randy Ruffin as

Kettlewell to begin his teaching and chaplaincy

always stood out during these trips off ampus

an exceptional math instructor. He was strict;

in 1965. It was Kettlewell who began leading

because there weren’t too many young teenage

he made you work, but in the end you knew your

activities with the boys that would evolve into

boys walking around in sport coats and ties.

stuff. He was also faculty advisor to the Honor

the outdoor program. Eventually John’s wife

Council. Mr. Joe Mercer, a former headmaster

Paula would teach at the School, too. Frank and

at Woodberry Forest, chaired the language

Dolores deAngelis began their fi st work at BRS

department. During the 1964-65 academic year,

in 1966. Carl Frye started in 1969. He coached

Jordan Churchill began his long tenure with

everything during his 43 years on campus ,and

Blue Ridge. He had previously taught many years

his wife Nancy taught art for a time.

BY JOHN YOUNG ENGLISH AND HISTORY TEACHER

Rugby School in England. While serving 25 years

During the ’60s, the student body grew to almost

As the School entered the 1970s, it began the

at Blue Ridge, he chaired the history department

200 boys, and the 8th grade was dropped for the

and was dean of students. His weekly chapel

1967 academic year. The only athletic offerings

talks about character, humility, and demand for

back then were football, soccer, basketball,

excellence served as examples for all to follow.

tennis, cross-country, and track. There was

Mr. Williams convinced grad student John

also horseback riding for students who enjoyed

Parrott to teach, coach, and manage admissions.

equestrian pursuits, as well as for the budding

young men capable of success in college but in

1932 - The cornerstone of Gibson Memorial Chapel is set on August 14. The work on the building was done by local craftsmen and students trained by Clinton Marbut, a stalwart of the School staff rom 1926 to 1942.

the offices of Admissions and Institutional Advancement.

County and served as the School’s Counsel.

He is said to know every detail of the School’s history and, until his untimely death, is known as the source for answers to nearly every question about Blue Ridge.

at the Lawrenceville School in New Jersey and

1935 - The Chapel Rectory is constructed.

Twenty-eight years later it is named the Martha Bagby Battle House. For a brief time it is used as a girls dormitory followed by the Headmaster’s house before becoming

1936 - In August, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, on his way to a celebration marking the completion of the Skyline Drive, makes a brife stop at the School.

1939 - John Morris ’23 (at right) is the first alumnus to be elected to the Board of Trustees. He was a trial justice in Greene

THE 1970s

signifi ant transition from struggling to reopen, reorganize, and survive during those fi st uncertain years to a period of remarkable growth and recognition. Programs were designed to provide a college preparatory experience for

1946 - Reverend Dewey Loving, an alumnus, becomes Headmaster. He remains in the post until 1959.

1947 - The School officially changes its name

4

need of a academic program that would, in the

a consequence and to provide a grandfatherly bit

could result in a summons to his office. Ran

words of Hatcher Williams, create “no fatal

of advice to each miscreant. Mr. Churchill was

consumed large quantities of black coffee, and

race which makes losers out of those who fall

universally respected for his kindness, sound

that may well explain his reputation. Despite

behind and never believe in themselves again.”

council, and for the fairness of his administra-

the legend, graduates returning to homecoming

Hatcher gathered about him a faculty that would

tion of justice. The rigor of his classroom in-

weekends tell stories of those times when, sum-

“seek to prepare a boy for life by instilling in him

struction in American history turned haphazard

moned to Randy’s office filled with epidation,

confidence and espect for his own abilities” so

learners into college-ready candidates. He was

they were surprised by the fact that, upon occa-

that each of their students could go forth “into

one of the most beloved faculty members in the

sion, their math grade, which was to be sent to a

the world with the greatest wealth of all—a deep

School’s history. Then there was Bob Eason, who

college admissions office or evaluation, might be nudged up just enough to provide the needed

awareness of their individual worth.”

edge to boost his chances.

Those of us who have been a part of the life of the School for several decades look back with a

The School was also blessed to have a group

special respect and fondness on the ’70s. It was

of younger faculty, most just a few years out of

a time of remarkable growth, advancement, and

college, to join the ranks. Upon them fell not

commitment. Mr. Williams gathered about him

only the need to teach and coach (three seasons

an outstanding faculty. It consisted of a notewor-

a year) but to assume the responsibility of daily

thy balance of men and women whose experienc-

duty and dorm parenting. They earned their

es ranged from 40-some years down to those who

stripes but also benefi ed from the opportunity

who were in their fi st or second years. What

to become immersed in the rituals and responsi-

proved to be so remarkable was that the older

bilities of becoming a good prep school master. It

faculty, rather than standing aloof, freely and

was an initiation that made them good profes-

caringly provided advice and encouragement to

sionals.

the younger ones. It was a rich and most valuable learning experience for those starting out here at

One of the most signifi ant and beloved ad-

the “Ridge.”

ditions was Bill Davis, who joined the faculty

Among the most experienced faculty at that time

3

Jordan Churchill

in 1972. Bill had received considerable radio and television coverage as a football player

were Jordan Churchill, who taught for three

proved to be one of the most remarkably effici t

for the University of Virginia Cavaliers. Blue

decades at the Lawrenceville School and chaired

and organized administrators in the School’s his-

Ridge School was incredibly lucky to attract his

its history department for much of that time,

tory. As the saying goes, when Bob was in charge

interest the summer following his graduation.

Robert Eason, who came to BRS after serving for

“the trains ran on time.” He was Hatcher’s essen-

Bill had been invited by the Pittsburgh Steelers

several decades as a math teacher and Assistant

tial right-hand man. In the classroom, his love

to tryout for a position. They were very much in-

Headmaster at Woodberry Forest, and Randy

of math was abundantly evident. He challenged

terested in him as a pass receiver. Yet, Bill’s baby

Ruffin, who had m y years of experience in the

his students to give their best as they sought to

daughter Margaret had just been born, and he

classroom both at Virginia Episcopal School and

unravel the algebraic and geometric mysteries

was well aware that were he to pass up Hatcher

Woodberry Forest teaching math. These three

he provided. Yet, at the end of the year, many of

Williams’ offer to work at Blue Ridge, he might

stalwarts supported Mr. Williams both in their

his students thanked him for challenging them.

then go to training camp and not make the cut.

teaching and administrative capacities.

Mr. Randy Ruffin a o had a major effect on the

Fortunately for the School, he decided to put in

School. He was the School’s academic dean­—the

his lot with us, and with that a new age in Baron

Mr. Churchill was the longtime dean of students,

keeper of the books. New faculty were warned:

athletics was born. Bill assumed the position of

who remarkably met every school day with each

“Do not cross him!” Students quickly became

head varsity football coach, and just a few years

student who had earned demerits to administer

aware that failure to turn in assignments on time

later he became both the varsity basketball coach

to Blue Ridge School and builds an academic building, which is still in use.

faculty housing, a conference room, the Outdoor Program office, and the Tuck Shop.

1952 - The Daughters of the American Revolution present a boys dormitory to the School. It is now used as faculty housing.

1962 - The School is reorganized and reopens as a college-preparatory, boarding school for boys. That same year, the pond, which continues to be a campus focal point, fills and Perkins Hall is built. It housed the dining hall, kitchen, and some study rooms. It is now an academic building.

1963 - Hatcher C. Williams is named Headmaster. He continues in this role until his retirement in 1984.

1956 - The School constructs a gymnasium, which after 16 years of use and a substantial gift from the New York Auxiliary is renovated into a student center. It now also contains

1965 - Walsh Dormitory is dedicated in honor of Homan H. Walsh. It continues to a majority of the student body.

1965 - Jordan C. Churchill joins the faculty, holding the positions of Chairman of the history department and Dean of Students

and athletic director as well. While Baron teams

In addition to the recent completion of Boogher

had done well in the past, Bill began to actively

Dorm and the rehabilitation of the New York

recruit skilled and experienced coaches to our

Auxiliary Student Center, ground was broken

programs, and our competitors in the Prep

to begin construction of the Massey Athletic

League had to take notice.

Complex in 1983. Blue Ridge was also earning new recognition for its drama program under the able leadership of Chris Mathews, who took the

THE 1980s

program to new heights in the 1980s. Audiences from near and far could always count on a fun

BY JIM NIEDERBERGER HISTORY TEACHER

and entertaining evening with one of his performances, which usually involved a large number of Blue Ridge students, including student leaders

If the 1960s was a period of setting a fir

and athletes and sometimes some rather improb-

foundation for the School and the 1970s a time

able characters. This tradition of excellence

of rapid development of the academic and other

continued under the inspired leadership of Mark

programs, as well as continued construction and

Roberts and later by the return of the incompara-

modernization of the School’s physical plant, the 1980s may be seen as the time when the School had finally arrived.” By then it was internationally recognized and respected as a boys’ preparatory school with a unique mission. The period of the late 1970s and early 1980s is viewed by many of the long-time faculty as a kind of “golden age” in the history of the School. Hatcher Williams, ably assisted by very talented and dedicated administrators, presided over a period of the largest enrollments in the School’s history, long waiting lists at all grade levels, unprecedented fund-raising, generally high morale in the community, and a number of events which catapulted the School into statewide and national recognition.

The beautiful Gibson Memorial Chapel, designed by the internationally famous church architect Ralph Adams Cram, has been the scene of many memorable occasions in addition to the School’s regular chapel services, such as commencement exercises, weddings, baptisms, and memorial services. It is unlikely that a more moving and impressive one was ever conducted there than in 1981 when history teacher Paula Kettlewell was ordained to the Episcopal priesthood in the

ble Frank DeAngelis.

Bill Davis

the faculty, and the student body. Paula was one of the fi st women in the Diocese of Virginia to be ordained. Her husband and legendary school chaplain, the Rev. John M. Kettlewell, spoke memorably and a bit wryly at the service on “Vive le Difference.” A young underclassman spoke for many when he was overheard leaving the chapel saying, “I was genuinely moved.” Paula served as associate chaplain until she moved on to a very distinguished career as associate rector at St. Paul’s Memorial Church in Charlottesville.

On a different note, in the fall of 1981, the varsity football team, under the leadership of Coach Bill Davis, for the fi st time ever defeated the always formidable team from Woodberry Forest, 21-20.

No one there will ever forget the experience. It seemed to be another sign that BRS had indeed arrived. Coincidentally, Bill was chosen Prep League Coach of the Year for his basketball team and—later in the decade—for his golf team, making him the fi st person in the history of the Virginia Prep League to be named Coach of the

In 1983, the School received signal recognition when the August New York Times singled out Blue Ridge in a large article in its Sunday edition’s education magazine on “Schools That Work,” a report on fi e schools across the United States that had achieved notable success in their respective field . It seemed a fi ting tribute to Hatcher Williams in his twilight years as headmaster, recognizing the amazing growth of the School during his 22 years of leadership. Hatcher announced that he would be retiring after the school year 1983-84.

Eric G. Ruoss, dean of students at the Trinity-Pawling School in Pawling, New York, was appointed to succeed him. It was hoped that Mr. Ruoss would refresh the School with innovations and new ideas for the curriculum as well as student life while preserving the mission, high admission standards, structure, and positive atmosphere that he inherited. One of the most noteworthy changes came about with the hiring of Charles Jackson to begin the computer program, which proved to be highly

presence of the bishop, many Episcopal clergy,

Year in two different sports.

during his career. He retires in 1987 after teaching a total of 57 years.

at many shows and is represented in the Virginia Museum of Fine Art.

students of Mrs. Ivory, as well as 160 professionals.

1968 - George P. Mayo Hall is constructed.

It is home to Jay Jessup ’69 Auditorium and Frank and Ann DeAngelis Stage.

1972 - Bill Davis turns down a spot on the Pittsburgh Steelers and becomes head football coach of Blue Ridge School. He stays in the position for 18 years and also was athletic director.

1976 - The wrestling team, coached by Dick Glover, wins the National Prep Tournament.

1973 - The first annual Blue Ridge Art Exhibition is held featuring work by 29

1984 - Eric G. Ruoss is named Headmaster, a post he will keep until 1992.

1970 - Blue Ridge School hires Mrs. Alice Wesley Ivory, the School’s first AfricanAmerican teacher, as head of the art department. Her work has been presented

successful and popular with the students and

1979 - Dudley A. Boogher Dormitory is dedicated and houses upperclassmen.

4

the faculty. Construction was completed on the

One of the bright spots of this period was the

I grabbed a couple of yearbooks from the offi

Massey Athletic Center and was also begun on

arrival on the scene of Ed McFarlane, whose son

and turned on a ‘90s playlist. Pearl Jam cranked

three faculty apartments, spacious additions to

Todd ’86 interviewed for admission in the spring

up, and I opened up the fi st yearbook from the

the Walsh Dormitory. As time went on, how-

of 1984. Ed himself moved from Davis and Elkins

1992-1993 school year to find a pictu e of Dr.

ever, it became apparent that the focus of the

College to Blue Ridge to finish his di sertation

Ed McFarlane with the caption “A new Era of

School was beginning to change, not only in its

and to help with the School’s athletic program.

Excellence.”

admissions standards and mission but also in

He assisted Coach Bill Davis in leading the varsiIt is hard to separate the School from the teachers, coaches, and administrators who work diligently with and for the students of any school.

That is even more true in a boarding environment. Heading into the 1990s, there was a change of leadership with Dr. McFarlane taking over as Headmaster. As an incoming junior that year, I knew nothing of what preceded my arrival except that Blue Ridge was going to help me become a better, more focused student with a caring and supportive faculty.

I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to attend Blue Ridge during this period of transition.

We had a few teachers who hung on during the late 80s, most notably Carl Frye, Jim Nieder-

An aerial view of campus following the completion of Boogher Hall (1981) and prior to the construction of Williams Library (1993).

berger, and John Young—three men who helped shaped my life and the lives of many other young men and with whom I also had the good fortune

what kind of school it was perceived to be and

ty basketball team to its fi st state championship

of becoming colleagues later in life. Many of

what kind of students were mission appropriate.

in 1986. The team also became champions for the

my friends teased me during our time in school

Nonetheless, some outstanding candidates were

fi st time of the Virginia Prep League the follow-

saying things like, “Miller, you love this place so

admitted during the Ruoss years, many of whom

ing year. Ed later became director of develop-

much, I bet you come back and work here!” Deep

turned out to be great leaders in the classroom,

ment and clearly established himself as a stable

down, I was thrilled to think that I could eventu-

on the athletic field , and in student government,

and calming influence t the School during these

ally join the faculty here in some capacity, mostly

but concerns were expressed about some of the

difficul times.

because I had finally ound a school were people

others and why they were being accepted. These and other challenges led to a period of instability in the faculty with a high turnover rate for about seven years, and the departure of some longtime figu es whose skills, devotion, and love of the School were readily apparent to all of the students with whom they dealt. The loss of these pillars one by one was almost inconceivable just a few years before. Many of them continued their

THE 1990s

BY JAMIE MILLER ’94 SENIOR DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS In thinking back over my time here at Blue Ridge, after being asked to write about the School in

distinguished careers elsewhere.

the ‘90s I decided to look for some inspiration.

1986 - The Blue Ridge School varsity basketball team fights back from an eighth seed to win the VIS State Tournament.

tenure, he obtained the first grants to start the School’s outdoor program.

1992 - Gibson Memorial Chapel is named a Virginia Historic Landmark.

3

cared about me as an individual.

1992 - After working as a consultant for the School for two years and as director of development for the School for four years, Ed McFarlane is named Headmaster. During his

Blue Ridge also had several new faculty members who had arrived in the early ’90s and stayed on through much of the decade. I count myself lucky to have been coached and taught by Donnie Woodward, Tom Denkinger, Bill Ramsey, Eric Gass, Jamie Bourland, Troy Newbraugh, and Frank DeAngelis. I did not understand then but have learned since returning to Blue Ridge

position he will hold until 2009.

1994 - The Fishburne Learning Center opens and the varsity football team wins its first state championship.

2000-2002 - The varsity basketball team enjoys tremendous success, finishing the season with a 25-7 record. They were Prep League regular season champions, Prep League tournament champions, and Virginia Independent School’s Division I State Champions.

2000 - David Bouton is named Headmaster, a

2001 - Lacrosse player Chazz Woodson

1993 - Hatcher C. Williams Library is dedicated.

the sacrifices the aculty make on behalf of the boys—to help each realize the potential we each have and the responsibility to our families and community to strive to improve ourselves and the lives of those around them. All of these men played a signifi ant role in my life during that time, and I am thankful that they were hard on me, pushed me, and would not let me give up in the classroom or the playing field .

Having worked in the external affairs side of campus for the past 12 years, I have learned that the School’s enrollment was very low during my time as a student. Enrollment and school size vary over the years and change frequently with dips and rebounds to the economy. Blue Ridge entered the decade with an uncertain future. Dr. McFarlane led the charge with Karen Ford, the Ed McFarlane

DeAngelises, the Murphys, the Fehlners, and all of those mentioned previously. The faculty was galvanized and strengthened by the challenges they faced. They forged ahead, believing deeply in the mission and vision that Blue Ridge was a special place.

Along with dedicated faculty, the Board of Trustees during the 1990s played a pivotal role in helping push Blue Ridge toward the future. Most notable was the emergence of the School’s largest fundraising effort to date, the Hatcher C. Williams Library. The new library was a much needed space, bringing the books out of the old, musty basement and to a bright new facility. This could not have been possible without the Trustees’ vision, led by Jay Jessup ‘69 and brought to fruition with the hard work of the advancement team of Dr. McFarlane, Troy Newbraugh, and Peter Holland ’66.

If you visit campus now, one cannot help but notice a group of faculty children running around campus. The ’90s were no different. We students were fortunate to see fi sthand close-

Carl Frye

knit families like the Murphys, the Fehlners,

Brown. Dr. McFarlane, the faculty, staff, and

the Martins, the Fryes, the Cormanys, and the

alumni leaders all worked together to position

Ramseys eating in the dining hall, helping cook

Blue Ridge very well for the future—and they

apple butter, chasing their children around in the

did. We could not be where we are today without

gym and out front on the lawn. Who can forget

their hard work, dedication, vision, and love for

Jim Niederberger snuggling a little one in the

the School.

dining hall so one of the mothers could have a hot meal or Uncle Frank barking out some Italian to all the kids or scooping up toddlers to give them ice cream way before they were supposed to eat such things!

This was a fun time to be a student or faculty member at Blue Ridge. The faculty and staff ere dedicated and full of optimism. The basketball team was striving for greatness, making waves in the Central Virginia community and beyond.

Several football teams had won conference titles and state titles. The Alumni Golf Tournament, led by Ben Hiatt ‘71 and Jimmy Crocker ‘72, was in full swing. Two new signature programs were added and given much more attention and funding: the Fishburne Learning Center and the

THE 2000s

BY PAUL FEHLNER RETIRED SCIENCE TEACHER Despite all of the dire warnings and prophecies of doom, the Millenium Bug, aka Y2K, came and went with barely a murmur. One might have hoped that this lackluster occurrence would portend a decade of peace and prosperity. Unfortunately for many, that was not the case.

On September 11, 2001, Headmaster David Bouton assembled the students in the auditorium to announce that a terrible tragedy had occurred at

Outdoor Program under the leadership of Tony

the World Trade Center. The primary concern

graduates from Blue Ridge School. He goes on to attend Brown University as a lacrosse student-athlete before joining Major League Lacrosse. Known for his flashy style, he plays professionally for ten years.

2012 - William A. “Trip” Darrin III is named Headmaster after serving the School in a variety of roles, including assistant headmaster for enrollment and marketing for five years.

2017 - Construction of the Baron Athletic Complex is completed. It which includes a turf football and lacrosse field, a six-lane track, Carl Frye Field for baseball, two soccer fields, and a golf driving range.

2009 - Dr. John O’Reilly is named Headmaster. Previously he had served as the assistant headmaster for academics and administration.

2012 - The School receives the first of two grants from the Walton Family Foundation to begin expanding the Gateway Trails for hiking and mountain biking to its current 17mile configuration.

2018 - Senior Franck Germain writes and directs the annual theatre production, a musical called Decatur 404. The production includes dozens of students and earns acclaim for its originality and depth.

4

at that point was to determine whether or not

health and family reasons, and Dr. Ed Bou-

Through the initiatives of Jacqueline Rice,

any of the students had relatives who may have

ton was named his successor. For the faculty

the Blue Ridge Chapter of the National Honor

been injured or killed. Fortunately, that was not

this meant the incorporation of Dr. Bouton’s

Society and the Red Cross blood drive were

the case.

approach to education in their lesson plans, an

established, and community service began to

approach that emphasized the recognition of the

assume greater importance in the lives of the

The suicidal attack by terrorists on the Pentagon

various learning styles of the students and the

students and teachers. The production and sale

and the World Trade Center was the most signifi-

advantages of backward planning as outlined

of homemade apple butter became an annual

cant event of the decade, triggering a cascade

in the book Understanding by Design. It was

event. Students spent hours cutting and peeling

of ensuing events that included the invasion of

required reading for the faculty, and many hours

apples and fending off ellow jackets. Other stu-

Afghanistan and war in Iraq. In 2004 one of the

were spent in an effort to redesign lesson plans

dent volunteers stirred the pot through the day

worst natural catastrophes in human history

such that the information presented in the class-

and night under the direction of Tim Cormany,

occurred when an earthquake in Southeast Asia

room would be accessible to every student.

who originated the effort. Proceeds were donated to Operation Smile.

touched off a tsunami, esulting in the death of

It was a particularly enjoyable turn of events when Woodberry Forest and St. Christopher, schools that had dominated the Virginia Prep League for years, began playing second fiddl to Coach Bill Ramsey’s formidable basketball teams. Led by talented players such as Tom Timmermans ’00, Jermaine Harper ’01, Jelani Lawrence ’02, and Jermone Day ’03, to name only a few, Blue Ridge was able to win Prep League championships as well as DI state championships in 2000 and 2001.

The early years of this decade may represent the golden age of performing arts at the Ridge. The Blue Ridge Famous Players kept us entertained with outstanding musical productions including The 2000 Virginia Prep League Champion and Virginia Independent Schools State Champion varsity basketball team with Coaches Tom Denkinger and Bill Ramsey.

and with remarkable performances by Brian

nearly 300,000 people. In the U.S., citizens of

Shortly after assuming the position of headmas-

Johnson ’01, Justin Wells ’02, and Greg Wall ’04.

Louisiana had to contend with the aftermath of

ter, Dr. Bouton began a fund-raising campaign to

The shows were directed by Frank and Dolores

Hurricane Katrina. In 2008 the U.S. suffered its

finance the enovation of the academic building,

DeAngelis on a stage that was dedicated in their

worst recession in history touching off a orld-

the residence halls, and the fieldhou e. Close to

honor in 2005. Frank’s ability to always bring out

wide economic crisis. In many respects, it was

$8 million were invested to improve the facilities

the best in all of his actors, and Dolores’s eye for

a decade characterized by unimagined human

and to advance the campus into the 21st century.

costume and musical talent resulted in a perfect

suffering.

The early years of the new millenium were

collaboration. Of course, Jim Niederberger’s

marked by what seemed like endless construc-

piano accompaniment was the proverbial icing

On a more positive note, the year 2000 also be-

tion on campus, but the result was worth the

on the cake.

gan a decade that brought the world such notable

inconvenience.

accomplishments as Wikipedia, Facebook, You-

12

Damn Yankees, Godspell, Grease, and Oklahoma,

And then there were Dolores’ Spring Weekend

Tube, Twitter and the ubiquitous iPhone. Google

The advances made in technology had a signifi-

concerts, a showcase not only for her exception-

became a verb in 2006, the same year Pluto was

cant effect on the culture in the residence halls.

al concert choir but for faculty talent as well.

demoted to an orbiting rock. After 86 years the

From the perspective of a dormitory supervisor,

Spring Weekend also included the art show.

Boston Red Sox won the World Series, and in

life became a whole lot easier. Gone were the

Under the tutelage of Rick Cocke, students who

2007 Britney Spears shaved her head. In 2008

days of screaming boys chasing each other up

had been exploring the fine arts in the cla sroom

one of the most extraordinary events in U.S. his-

and down the hallways as most were content

were then able to display their original creations

tory occurred when Barack Obama, an American

to remain in their rooms engaged in computer

for parents and other students to appreciate.

of African ancestry, was elected president.

games, sometimes competing with boys in other rooms and sometimes other countries. But gone

The Spring Weekend of 2009 was a celebratory

For Blue Ridge School the year 2000 marked

also were the friendly games of hacky sack and

one that marked the 100-year anniversary of

another transition. Headmaster Ed McFarlane

touch football on the front lawn.

the founding of Blue Ridge School. A special

unexpectedly announced his retirement citing

choral concert was the culmination of a series of

events that included a pinning ceremony and a

these in mind, the rest of the already dedicated

be here. It wasn’t just a place they had to go but

100-day festival. It was a fi ting end to a decade

faculty and staff dug in or a low admissions start

rather a place they wanted to be. Admissions was

of excellence.

for the year, finances th t needed attention, and

able to vary its international student popula-

classrooms that needed to be restructured for a

tion and broaden its domestic base. Within the

new style of teaching.

“boy-friendly model” teachers were trying new

THE 2010s

strategies in the classrooms and were given

BY HANS HERMANSON ’97, DIRECTOR OF RESIDENCE LIFE The summer of 2012 is when my daughter and I moved to Blue Ridge School. My wife was away finishing her deg ee, so my father-

As a testament to that group of educators and

permission to think and work “outside the box.”

staff, I have never seen this many people so ded-

Dedicated to professional development, the

icated to a single mission outside of the military.

School gave teachers the funds to pursue our in-

In my opinion, it was the belief in “boy fi st” that

terests and make us better educators. Character

propelled us through that year. It is said that

Education was giving us new ways to invoke the

working at a boarding school is not a job but a

Code of Conduct across all areas so that boys understood that quality of personhood

in-law helped by taking care of our

isn’t segmented to one facet of life,

daughter as I started my new job

but rather an ongoing testament to

here as Residence Life Coordinator

who you are at all times. Campus life

and teacher of Religious Studies.

for has been improved by signifi ant

Being a graduate of the Blue Ridge

renovations to student rooms, new

School Class of ‘97, in many ways it

tennis courts, a new weight room,

felt like coming home from a long

an indoor climbing wall, additional

vacation. As it was summer, there

trails and outdoor recreation re-

were no students here, but the

sources, the completion of projects

faculty were all incredibly welcom-

such as the new athletic field , and,

ing; this place just felt right for me.

most recently, breaking ground on

But something was a little off. My

new faculty housing.

personal sense of ease was often at odds with an undertone of tension

What I stepped into that 2012-2013

that seemed to exist among faculty

school year was a renaissance. Since

that had been here the previous

then, we have clearly started to

year. Little did I know that the

mature. Admissions is still able to

School had just undergone major

bring in a high-calibre student, but,

transitions in several key roles.

because of our School’s leadership

What I was picking up on was that

and dedicated faculty and staff, we

residual unease. Not having been

are experiencing a wait list for the

through that previous year afforded

fi st time (as I understand it) in

me an outsider’s perspective as that

many years. While we have not lost

fi st year carried on.

who and what we were as a school, we are still able to hone in on who

In a discussion that I had with the

we want to become as a leading

then-Interim Headmaster Trip Darrin, I mentioned that it felt like the School was going through a renaissance. We were being reborn.

While that is a good thing, it can

force in educating boys. I came back The annual Rites of Passage Expeditions provide each class unique opportunities to BRS because I remembered it to put character education lessons into action. Here the senior class celebrates the was a community of believers who are end of a challenging day and say “good bye” to youthful characteristics as they committed to fostering and facilitatprepare for graduation.

also be painful at times. In Mr. Darrin, I saw a leader who was very much dedicated to his vision of the School and who was supported by key people who shared this vision. A healthy financial lon evity for the School (headed by Franklin Daniels), quality not quantity of students (headed by Jamie Miller ’94), a focus on a new Character Education program (by Vinton Bruton) and boy-centered learning (led by Kevin Miller) were just a few initiatives that were receiving dedicated time and attention. With

ing the all-around potential of young

lifestyle. That 2012-2013 year was a testament

men with everything we do. That tradition still

to that and to the people who made it happen. I

stands strong.

wasn’t here to see where the School had come from, but it was clear that, wherever we were going, it was to be better than ever before. I believe that it was for this reason that the 2013-2014 year opened with a 100% retention in faculty and staff.

Over the next few years, one could see this truly start to develop. Students were clearly excited to

13

SETTING OUR PLACES

A

by Jay Atkinson, Director of Leadership Giving

n Army marches on its stomach.” This quotation, attributed to Napoleon Bonaparte, is a familiar one to many, and is a statement on the importance of good and plentiful food for strong performance of any task. While the boys of Blue Ridge School are not an army per se, it could certainly be said that “Blue Ridge boys learn on their stomachs.” And for the School, it is the Dining Hall where that nourishment happens- three times a day, seven days a week.

14

The dining hall facility at Blue Ridge School has served the community well since it was built in the 1960s during the tenure of beloved Headmaster Hatcher Williams. As the enrollment of the then newly re-opened all boys school continued to grow, he recognized the importance of the dining hall as a centerpiece of com-

Over the last 24 months, the Board of Trustees and senior administrators, working with a respected regional architectural firm, h ve led a careful and thoughtful study of options for a renovation of the dining hall facility. After a detailed analysis, and input from Board members, alumni, and faculty members, it was determined that transforming and “re-purposing” the Hatcher Williams Library into a new Dining Hall for the community was the most viable option. This option offers several distinct advantages.

It relocates the Dining Hall to a prominent and visible location on —Jamie Miller ’94 campus without having to construct a new building. It provides a single Senior Director of Admissions level space for the kitchen, servery, and dining area. And importantly, served the community well for over 50 by relocating the dining service to this years, the kitchen is approaching the end building, the School avoids the need for a of its serviceable life. temporary kitchen that would be disrupmunity life. He led the fundraising and construction of the dining hall as part of a new activities building that is still in use today. And while the existing facility has

“There is no doubt, as an alumnus and in working with new families, that an improved dining facility with more options and variety will directly impact our boys’ lives on a daily basis.”

This proposal by Delta Engineers, Architects, and Land Surveyors features a modern design that facilitates an easy flow hrough the serving area and includes an outdoor patio that will be part of the second phase. Single-level design makes it much easier to bring in deliveries and accomodates guests of all abilities.

tive to the academic year or to the strong revenue producing summer programs.

The food service operation is a critical component of campus life for several reasons. First and to no one’s surprise, food (quality and quantity!) is of the utmost importance for growing teenage boys. Boys need well-balanced, healthy nutrition options to fuel their bodies so they can perform well in the classroom, on the athletic field , and in the other demanding co-curricular activities that are part of the daily fabric of boarding school life in St. George, Virginia.

In addition to the clear, practical value of a good nutritional program for the boys, the dining hall plays another very important role in community life at Blue Ridge. In a tradition that began in the early days of the all-boys, all-boarding structure, dining at Blue Ridge School is family style. The boys and faculty eat together as one family, and the boys are able to develop deeper relationships as well as

have a reinforced sense of community through shared meals. Long time faculty member John Young tells a humorous story that illustrates just how “family” the School dining hall environment can be. In the mid-1970s, a foreign language faculty member decided to place his baby son on a dining hall table and, to the shock of those present, proceeded to change his son’s diaper right during a meal. John says that those sitting there were “left dumbstruck.” While that event thankfully never became a trend at Blue Ridge, the family-style meals are a tradition deeply engrained in the culture of the School.

In today’s competitive boarding school environment, a state of the art dining faculty with great variety and quality of food is also an important admissions tool. Often, one of the fi st questions

15

that prospective families ask is about the quality of the food service and the facility, and how meals are served on campus. Jamie Miller ’94, Senior Director of Enrollment Management, is candid in his assessment, “There is no doubt, as an alumnus and in working with new families, that an improved dining facility with more options and variety will directly impact our boys’ lives on a daily basis. A new dining hall will help us continue to be successful.”

The vision is twofold: 1) to create a space that upholds the traditional family dining experience that has been a hallmark at BRS for decades; 2) design a modern kitchen that utilizes best practices in function and promotes energy efficien and durability. The serving area will

feature multiple stations that emphasize fresh ingredients and a greater diversity of offerings for the boys and faculty.

Moving the dining hall to Williams provides another opportunity – a concurrent “re-imagining” of the existing dining hall into a 21st century collaborative study space and reading room. Dean of Faculty Pete Bonds recently led a BRS task force charged with studying the library of the

The dining hall is more than just a place to eat meals. It is a place for the community to gather for special events such as the annual Thanksgiving Dinner and to learn valuable socialization skills. The new dining hall will allow our students to enjoy higher quality foods in a more modern facility.

16

future. His task force was also asked to make recommendations on how the 21st century BRS library could look.

The findin s of the task force affirmed t t, with the massive changes in technology and availability of so much information electronically, the need for a library as a place where students may learn to locate information is more necessary and relevant than ever. Pete says, “As part of a reinvigorated BRS curriculum that prepares students for a 21st century college education, a vibrant and modern library will be essential; now is the ideal time for a reimagining of what the School’s library could be.”

Preliminary cost estimates show that an investment of approximately $2.175 million will be needed to complete both phases of the project. As the vision for the overall project began to emerge late last fall, the enthusiasm of the Board of Trustees and Alumni Leadership Council for the project was palpable. Board Chairman Mitch Rue ’81 said, “Relocating the dining hall to Williams and creating a new library in the current Loving space is simply an exciting proposition. It will be a transformational project for the Blue Ridge campus. We can both honor our traditions and

help our boys be prepared for the opportunities and challenges of a 21st education. It gives us two new spaces and lays the foundation for generations of future Blue Ridge boys to thrive.” Rue notes that the renovation of the Dining Hall is the last project slated as part of the BRS 2020 strategic plan, and that early signs of support for the project are promising.

Late last fall, the Board of Trustees conducted initial “quiet” fundraising in support of the project, and together they have pledged over $450,000 to date. This total illustrates the excitement surrounding the project. The public launch of the capital campaign, aptly entitled “Setting our Places,” is planned for later this year. As Headmaster Hatcher Williams did decades ago, we will once again ask alumni, parents, and friends of Blue Ridge School to come together to make this extraordinary vision a reality for the next generation of Blue Ridge boys. For more information or to inquire about BRS class or family naming opportunities, please contact Jay Atkinson, Director of Leadership Giving at jatkinson@ blueridgeschool.com or at 434-9920517.

SAVE THE DATE ALUMNI WEEKEND OCTOBER 25-26, 2019

THE WILLIAMS LEGACY Hatcher Crenshaw Williams was born November 27, 1918, in Oxford, North Carolina, the fourth son of John and Lily Williams. After graduating from his local public school at the age of 16, he elected to attend a post-graduate year at Darlington School in Rome, Georgia. Little did he suspect then the signifi ance and import that year in a prep school would have on his future career. From 1936 to 1940, Williams attended Duke University and graduated with a degree in English.

After exploring a variety of career possibilities, eventually Williams began to think about teaching and wrote the Headmaster at Darlington of his interest in the field. e was invited to begin teaching at Darlington; an invitation he accepted. In September 1944, he and his newlywed bride Jacqueline arrived and began what would be a nine-year teaching career at Darlington.

Williams returned to Duke University where he earned a Master’s degree

in English. In 1953, he moved from Darlington to Christchurch School in Virginia where he was Assistant Headmaster. In 1959, he founded Corolla Academy, a summer school program located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Corolla thrived until the property was sold in 1962; the Outer Banks’ loss proved to be Blue Ridge School’s blessing. At the suggestion of a friend, Hatcher and Jacqueline visited Blue Ridge School in the spring of 1962 as they considered relocating Corolla Academy there. After leasing the Blue Ridge campus for his summer school, Williams signed on as Assistant Headmaster. When the fi st Headmaster of the newly reorganized Blue Ridge School resigned in January 1962, Williams assumed leadership.

After 22 years of steady growth and compasionate stewardship, Hatcher Williams retired as Headmaster of Blue Ridge School in 1984. He passed away on September 5, 2006.

FACULTY PROFILE:

JAMIE BOURLAND

“Young people are fun,” says Jamie Bourland when asked what has kept him at Blue Ridge School for 25 years. Like so many answers, though, there’s more to it than that.

W

hat has kept Bourland at Blue Ridge School is variety - variety in his work, in his colleagues, and in his students. Bourland began at Blue Ridge School in 1994 teaching “computer stuff” and has since taught general science, physics, astronomy, honors chemistry, and math.

He contributes his construction talents to the theatre productions as a set builder. After decades in the classroom, Bourland continues to teach one class and serve as the advisor to a small group of students but now spends most of his time and energy filling the ole of Director of Facilities.

He was instrumental in bringing the internet to campus and for laying the foundation for the School’s IT Department. John Palmer ’02 says of Bourland, “Of all the faculty that had an impact on my life at BRS, he had the biggest, from fostering my interest in IT to showing me that everyone on that campus deserves the same respect—from maintenance to kitchen staff, teachers and administrators to the Headmaster.”

18

In the early 1990s, Bourland earned his teaching certifi ate from UVA and landed a job at Christchurch School. After four years there, he was at risk of losing his graduate school credits and returned to UVA. It was then that he started tutoring students at Blue Ridge School during study hall. With his characteristic snark, Bourland says, “Probably the main part of my job as a tutor was translating

Jim Niederberger’s history class into really simple English.” At the end of the academic year, then-Academic Dean Frank DeAngelis offered him a full-time teaching position. The rest is history.

When news got out that Bourland was celebrating his 25th anniversary at Blue Ridge School. Many alumni note the

Jamie Bourland, Director of Facilities

positive effect he had on them during their formative years as a student. Matt Schiller ’12 says, “I thoroughly enjoyed my time working with Mr. Bourland on all the theater productions sets.

Originally, I joined because it was a way to get off ampus, but when I went to college I pursued a technical theatre degree. Though I did not finish y higher learning, I was offered a job doing lighting and audio for corporate meetings and

trade shows and have made a nice life for myself.”

Bourland’s influence on Blue Rid e students extends beyond professional work to the understanding that so much of life happens outside of official ork.

He is often tinkering in his shop or working on a project, an improvement to an existing system, or a solution to a vexing problem. Michael Carlini ’10 says, “Jamie is the person who ignited my passion for all things science and engineering. I now restore antique stereo amplifie s as a hobby.”

The relationships that teachers and students develop are crucial to student success. At times this has been difficult or Bourland—an admitted introvert. He likes to connect with students by hosting a weekly cookout behind the Student Center. Bourland buys the meat, and students learn how to cook (a little) for themselves—usually through considerable trial and error. He recalls a student who had never seen raw ground beef. “He thought we were cooking worms. It took him a whole week to work up the courage to try it.”

He adds with a laugh, “It’s good for them; it’s stupid but it’s good for them.”

Regardless of how or why he arrived in St. George, Bourland has since become a fi ture on campus. Whether he is walking his dog Captain or repairing his vintage Land Cruiser, Bourland is always available to students and fellow faculty.

Everyone “won big” at the 110th New York Auxilary Blue and White Bash in January 2019, especially Blue Rige School thanks to $47,000 in contributions.

CELEBRATING THE 110TH BLUE & WHITE BASH

T

he swanky Doubles Club tucked away in the basement of Fifth Avenue’s SherryNetherland Hotel - was fille to capacity for the 110th annual Blue Ridge School fundraiser by the New York Auxiliary. Alumni and parents joined Manhattan socialites for an evening of dinner, dancing, auctions, and (charitable!) gambling - all to the benefi of Blue Ridge School. At the end of the night, the crowd had raised more than $47,000 toward the construction of a new dining hall (see page 14) and scholarships for BRS students from the New York area.

president Helen Hunt and the other committee co-chairs Jackie Didier, Katy Guillaro, Ellen Marsteller, and Nancy Sipp for their continued support of Blue Ridge School.”

Party attendees could bid on exciting auction items such as sports memorabilian and weekend getaways.

There was spirited bidding on an autographed bottle of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon that ultimately fetched a considerable sum.

an entree of Chicken Milanesse, and a dessert of hazelnut gelato and raspberry parfait.

During dinner, Auxilary member and Blue Ridge School Trustee Hope Tate welcomed the night’s honoree: Marion P. “Dickie” Brawley III ’68. She noted his many contributions of time and financia support for the School and thanked him for his lifetime as a devoted Baron. In typical fashion, Mr. Brawley used the occassion to recognize other alumni in attendance to thank them for their support of Blue Ridge School and the Auxiliary’s annual fundraising event.

Headmaster Trip “The combination of a Darrin attended the fabulous new venue and event and says, “The a wonderful collection of 2019 Blue Ridge alumni and parents made Bash was a great time this 110th annual event and great success! even more successful It was a celebration than expected,” adds of the shared 110th Franklin Daniels, anniversaries Associate Headmaster The historic Doubles Club in New York City’s Sherry-Netherland Hotel. of the New York for External Affairs.

Auxiliary and Blue “This party really was Ridge School, a partnership that is the fun, and the energy translated into a very The Doubles Club is a select dinner club, foundation of the School’s long-term and the staff p epared a delicious meal for strong yield which will support both the health. I am grateful to the Auxiliary dining hall and scholarships.” the occasion: pastrami smoked salmon leadership, particularly the current with pumpernickel for the appetizer,

19

OWN THE MOMENT VISAA DIV II BASKETBALL STATE CHAMPIONS With less than a minute to play in the VISAA state championship game, the Barons were trailing Miller School —down but not out. They had already rallied back from a 33-18 deficit in th third quarter to get within striking distance late in the fourth. With only seconds to go, Savion Helm was fouled.

He made both shots to tie the game at 44, forcing overtime. During the extra session, the Barons went 9 for 10 from the foul line and at the final buz er, the Barons were on top 61-53.

For the third time in fi e years, the Barons Varsity Basketball team had won the VISAA Division II State Championship.

Following the dramatic win—the feather

in the cap of an outstanding 28-6 season —Head Coach Cade Lemcke told The Daily Progress about the importance of this team’s motto “Own the Moment”: “Don’t think back to when this possession is over and wonder, ‘Did I really give it my all and the spirit that I needed to give?’ and just that constant reminder that our life is full of a bunch of moments. This game was full of moments, and if you’re owning that moment and leaving it out there on the floo , you don’t know what’s going to happen and our guys made some big plays down the stretch and put us in position to go to overtime and position to win the game.”

Senior Chris Rogers says, “What Coach Cade preached to us is that every little moment—whether in practice, school,

life—is just to be in that moment, to be part of it, to give everything we can throughout whether its win or lose. That’s what we were able to do in that state championship game, especially us being down. That’s what he preached to us in the time outs, at the half, before the game that if we stayed in the moment things would work out for us, and they did. He’s such a great guy and a great coach. It’s not all about basketball for us. It’s about us growing as a team and as people.”

The win avenged a loss in last year’s championship game against Miller.

Senior Jaden Frazier says beating Miller for the title was extra special, “It was a great feeling. We defini ely owned every moment of that game to come back and fig t back to win it.”

At the Championship game: (top left) Sophomore Michael Grey; (top right) Senior Omar Jassim gets fi ed up; (right) Seniors Jaden Frazier and Chris Rogers celebrate the win; and (below) Senior Dhruv Mehrotra cheers from the sideline. (Photos by Bart Isley/ScrimmagePlay)

12 21

IN MEMORIAM Former member of the Blue Ridge School Board of Trustees and Alumni Parent Malcolm A. “Mal” Buckey, Jr., of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL passed away on Sunday February 3, 2019. Mr. Buckey was born in Chestnut Hill, PA, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm A. Buckey, Sr. Prior to retiring to Ponte Vedra Beach, Mal Buckey lived in Philadelphia and Richmond Virginia. He was a graduate of The William Penn Charter School and the University of Pennsylvania class of 1958. Well known in the financial busine s, Mal ended his professional career with Bank of America in Richmond in 2003. He served on many boards in banking, education and many other charities. He was a member of the Country Club of Virginia, Farmington Country Club in Charlottesville, VA and Ponte Vedra Inn and Club. He was predeceased by his parents; and his sister Patricia M. Buckey. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Susan Gurney Buckey; their daughters, Nancy Buckey Rothacker of Dublin OH, Lisa Buckey Foley of Winnetka IL; sons, M. Robert Buckey of Jacksonville and John Edmund Buckey ’88 of Napa, CA; sons-in-law, Jack Philip Rothacker and Christopher Martin Foley; sister, Barbara Buckey Grimes of Audubon PA; and four beloved grandchildren, Jake and Sarah Rothacker and John and Christopher Foley. As a young man, he was an avid swimmer and diver, and throughout his life, he could be found on a golf course, sailing on either the Chesapeake Bay or in the BVIs. He had many adventures with family and friends in Bermuda and many summers spent at Skytop Lodge and Club in the Poconos. He was always quick with a joke and took great pleasure in making people laugh, as many friends from all over the country can attest.

Charles K. Edmunds II ’68 passed away on March 20, 2019, of complications from diabetes, while on hospice care at UVA Northridge Hospital. He was born in 1949 in Baltimore, Maryland. Charlie came to Blue Ridge in his 8th grade year in September of 1963, the School’s second year as a boarding school.

He had great admiration for Mr. Kelsey, who spent countless hours with him to improve his reading skills. Charlie also worked many hours on weekends with Fred Morris, head of maintenance, when he worked off his demerit . Fred taught him many useful skills about the repair and maintenance of property.

Edmunds played fullback on the Baron’s football team in 1968 that went 6-1-1. After graduation from BRS, Charlie took numerous courses at the University of Maryland and other colleges specializing in art and design. He had a successful landscaping company in the Baltimore area. Later, he completely renovated a small, modest house into an expansive estate-style home which was used in the 1989 movie Her Alibi starring Tom Selleck. Years later Charlie moved just outside of the Blue Ridge gates in a farm house next to Leon Morris’ house. During the early 2000s, he was contracted by the School to do landscaping and grounds maintenance. His fi st plan was to raise the canopy of the trees on the lawn between the library and Battle House. It was during that project that he quickly earned the name “Chainsaw Charlie.” The sound of his cutting down large limbs and taking down old dead trees upset many of the Blue Ridge residents, but, when the project was completed, the campus was more open and even more beautiful. He also donated several beautiful trees, fl wers and other greenery around the campus.

Carl B. “Coby” Frye, Jr. ’89 passed away on April 1, 2019. Coby was attending a BB&T award celebration with his wife Karen in Orlando, Florida. At the dinner, Coby aspirated food and was rushed to the hospital. He passed away peacefully. Coby was the son of former Athletic Director Carl B. Frye, Sr., and his wife Nancy. The Fryes are noted for being a very close-knit and loving family. Coby was the eldest of four children, and they spent all of their formative years living at the School. He was a very popular four-year boy and distinguished himself as an honors student as well as a three season athlete, participating on the varsity football, basketball and baseball teams. Coby returned to Blue Ridge School to coach alongside his father and to teach summer school. He and Karen were married in the School’s Gibson Memorial Chapel. “This is a tragic turn of events, and the entire Blue Ridge community is simply at a loss,” said Headmaster Trip Darrin. “Coby Frye was a beloved alumnus who embodied the strength of character we strive for all our students to achieve. Coby was a family man who so proudly spoke about his father when we dedicated Frye Field for Carl. Coby’s death leaves a huge void. The combined thoughts and prayers of all current Blue Ridge boys and members of faculty and staff a e with Carl, Nancy, and the Frye family.” Coby enjoyed a very successful career in banking with BB&T in Richmond. In addition to his parents and siblings Meredith, Dan, and Josh, Coby is survived by his beloved wife Karen and sons Boice and Cole.

Former member of the Blue Ridge School Board of Trustees Edgar Turley Higgins, Jr., of Atlanta, Georgia, died on March 18, 2019. He was the father of Edgar T. “Trey” Higgins III ’88 and served on the Board from 2002 through 2014 when he was named Trustee Emeritus. He also served as Vice Chair of the Board for two years. During his time on the Board, Blue Ridge School saw the conclusion of renovations to dormitories and the academic building, began the development of the Baron Athletic Complex, and completed the appointment of two headmasters. A talented musician in his own right, Higgins was personally responsible for acquiring a new organ for Gibson Memorial Chapel. The organ is named in memory of Higgins’ late son Trey. Music was a cornerstone of Higgins’ life. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina and later studied at The Juilliard School (Extension) and Westminster Choir College. He volunteered for the Community Concert Association of Asheville, North Carolina, and was a member of The American Guild of Organists, The American Society of Jazz Educators, and The Choral Arts Society, USA. He worked in many capacities for the music division of Yamaha Corporation of America. Board Chair Mitch Rue ’81 says, “Turley had an ability to see over the horizon, recognize the right path, and build a consensus to arrive at an effective solution with the best interest of Blue Ridge School at heart. In addition, Turley had a wonderful, dry sense of humor, an infectious laugh, and the wonderful charm of a Southern gentleman.”

Did you know that Blue Ridge depends on contributions to The Baron Fund to operate the School and support the boys? Or that roughly 10% of the operating budget, approximately $750,000, is invested each year by alumni, parents, and friends of the School to bridge the gap between monies supplied by tuition and endowment income and the full cost to provide the Blue Ridge School education for the boys?

Historically, nearly 1,000 people make a gift each year to support the School that has made a difference for them or for their son or grandson.

Thus far, the 2018-19 school year has been one of the brightest in recent memory—full enrollment with a wait list, 100% college acceptance rate for our graduating seniors, over 24 U.S. states and territories and 18 countries represented in the student body, the new faculty housing project underway, and a state varsity basketball and individual wresting championship. It has been an awesome year in St. George!

month, we will have videos, challenge and match opportunities, and words of encouragement from some of your favorite Barons.

Once there, you can easily make a secure gift and designate it to support the Fishburne Learning Center, Outdoor Programs, our wonderful faculty, academics, athletics, scholarships, or another part of campus life. If you prefer to make your gift by check, there is a business-reply envelope in this edition of The Ridge magazine for your convenience.

Each student is unique, but they all benefi from Blue Ridge School’s unified oal of guiding young boys through this important time of their lives and preparing them for a life of character and intellectual growth.

Help us celebrate confidence ained, growth achieved, and character developed – a journey started here over fif y years ago with a guiding purpose­—helping boys reach their potential.

To close out and to celebrate this wonderful year on campus—and all things Blue Ridge—we are embarking on a month-long fundraising campaign of support for The Baron Fund. This campaign is called “OneBlueRidge2019” and will be conducted during the month of May. We are calling on our alumni, current parents, alumni parents, grandparents, faculty, and friends of the School to make a contribution to The Baron Fund this month. Your gift matters, and every gift has an immediate effect on the lives of our students.

If 500 donors make a gift from May 1st to May 31st, it will unlock an additional $50,000 pledge that will multiply the power of your support! If you make a gift of $100 or more during May, we’ll send you a pair of custom 2019-edition Blue Ridge School socks!

Contributing is easy! Go online to www.blueridgeschool.com/ oneblueridge and check out the campaign. Throughout the

Please make your gift during the month of May – and show that we are OneBlueRidge family!

BLUE RIDGE SCHOOL 273 MAYO DRIVE ST. GEORGE, VA 22935

Non Profit Org US Postage & Fees PAID Blue Ridge School

Make Blue Ridge School a family tradition!

The Groves Family Legacy Tuition Program provides a scholarship to applicants who have a family link to an alumnus or current student.

Those who qualify will receive a tuition scholarship equal to a 10% reduction in the total amount of their tuition and fees. This scholarship is offered in addition to merit or need-based financial a sistance.

The Groves Family Legacy Tuition Program honors Robert W. “Bobby” Groves III ’67 and his family. Bobby and his wife Anne were the fi st alumni parents to enroll a son at Blue Ridge School. Their son Bill Groves graduated in 1995, and their nephews Johnson and Robert Stevens graduated in 2003 and 2006.

Join the Groves family—and the growing number of alumni families sending their sons to BRS—by making Blue Ridge School a family tradition!

For more information, contact Senior Director of Admissions Jamie Miller ’94 at (434) 992-0528.