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2026 Bolles Magazine Summer Issue

Page 1


BOLLES

POWERED BY IMAGINATION

Celebrating the Class of 2026

25 Years of Ottenstroer Fellowships

Capital Projects Continue to Impact Summer 2026

Value Realized In Every Opportunity

Students at Bolles are given the breadth to discover what they love and the guidance to pursue it with purpose. The value of that experience does not end at graduation. It continues in the way they think and in the confidence and connections they carry forward.

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Bolles Mission Statement

The Bolles School prepares students for college and life by inspiring excellence, courage, integrity and compassion in an academic community dedicated to nurturing mind, body and soul.

dministration

Tyler Hodges  President and Head of School

Andrew Forrester   Associate Head of School

Carol Nimitz, CFRE Chief Advancement Officer

Jeff Role

Chief Finance and Operations Officer

Paul Sollee ’88  Chief Technology Officer

Kila McCann  Dean of Enrollment & Accessibility

Bolles Magazine

Office of Communications

Jan R. Olson, APR  Editor-in-Chief

Senior Director/Communications & Marketing

Kristen DeSmidt  Executive Editor  Communications Associate

John D. Curran  Managing Editor  Web Design & Communications Associate

Dana Bussiere  Assistant Editor  Communications Associate

Office of Advancement

Kara Barber

Major Gifts Officer

Sandy Catanese, CFRE Director of The Bolles Fund and Parent Programs

Ellie Dalkin

Mentorship Program Coordinator

Janet S. Frampton  Director of Advancement Services  Alumni Notes

Julia Kalinski, MPA Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

John Newman ’86, M.Ed. Stewardship and Alumni Officer

Kendall Pillsbury

Advancement Administrative Specialist

Becca Rogers / Lindsey Cagulangan Advancement Events Coordinator

Rahul Sharma ’03

Strategic Initiatives and Senior Major Gifts Officer

Contributing Photographers:

Jeff Adams - Official Bolles Sports Photographer

Cady & Cady

Mark Krancer

Sean Coleman

Baker Sports

Volume 93, Issue 2 Summer 2026

For the friends and families of The Bolles School

If anyone can say we are powered by imagination, it is The Bolles School. This is a place where imagination is used in every corner. In every classroom, there is a teacher reaching out to their students to help them be their best possible selves. Classroom lessons, planned trips, artistic classes and coaching staff all use their talented abilities to stretch the minds of our students.

The use of this creativity becomes the energy for the School, and it fuels faculty, students, parents and alumni to want to seek better and new opportunities. We are energized by creative concepts in an environment where these ideas are thoughtfully supported and generously brought to life.

This innovation and growth do not advance without the base understanding of empathy, service and belonging. This is how Bolles achieves much success by graduating young adults not only ready to take their next steps, but to be prepared for life. This is the true value in a Bolles education. Bolles doesn’t just imagine what’s possible, it invests with purpose and delivers impact.

Contact me! OlsonJ@Bolles.org

About the Cover

Upper school science instructor Brad Bullington ’02 traveled to Wyoming to conduct astrophotography research at some of the darkest sky sites in the country, an experience he calls a “dream project” made possible through the Ottenstroer Excellence in Teaching Fellowships. Using advanced imaging and analysis tools, Bullington captured emission data from nebulae, star clusters and distant galaxies. This experience will directly enrich his chemistry classroom by providing real astronomical data and images that connect atomic structure, spectroscopy and molecular chemistry to observable phenomena, helping students see chemical principles at work across the universe. Learn more about how the Ottenstroer Fellowships have shaped education at Bolles for 25 years on page 13.

Table of Contents: Powered by Imagination

From the President and Head of School 2

Celebrating the Bolles Class of 2026 4

A Legacy of Learning: 25 Years of Ottenstroer Fellowships at Bolles 13

Bolles Announces New Director of College Counseling 17

Bulldogs Continue to Shine in Athletic Endeavors 24

Bolles Unveils Chappell Fieldhouse and Chipper Jones Stadium at Historic Home Opener 31

Alban Arts and Innovation Center Coming to Bolles Middle School Bartram Campus 36

Bartram Class Notes 53

Bolles Class Notes 56

Jan Olson
“Over the course of the past year, we accepted the challenge to dream big dreams…”
TYLER HODGES President and Head of School

President and Head of School

explore new ideas and as a result fail to evolve. Thankfully, this is not part of the Bolles story. Bolles has a long tradition of innovation, and we will continue to pursue excellence in all areas. This issue’s theme, Powered by Imagination, perfectly encapsulates this moment at Bolles. We recently completed our next strategic plan that will guide the School through it’s centennial in 2033. I believe the strategic planning process to be one of the most important opportunities for an organization mainly because the process, when done well, forces the School community to think deeply about where it has been, where it is now and where it wants to be. From the beginning, we worked to imagine the future of teaching and learning at Bolles as we stay laser focused on our mission to prepare our graduates for life. Over the course of the past year, we accepted the challenge to dream big dreams, building upon our rich history and legacy, in order to position the School for sustainable success in its second century.

We have long known that Bolles is energized by ideas that are thoughtfully supported and brought to life. It is visible in faculty research enabled by Ottenstroer grants and through intentionally designed programs that heighten the student experience. We will be sharing more about the strategic plan and its implementation this fall. I am excited to continue the Bolles legacy of not just imagining what’s possible, but thoroughly and thoughtfully investing with purpose to deliver focused and impactful programs across academics, community and campus life. This is value realized.

Respectfully,

Bolles President and Head of School
Tyler Hodges with Board of Trustees
Chair Tatiana Salvador ’86

2025-26 Bolles Board of Trustees

Tatiana Salvador ’86

Chair

John Surface ’90 Vice-Chair

Daniel Dross ’76

Secretary

Tyler J. Hodges

President/Head of School

Trustees

Brad Arrowsmith ’96

DeCovan Brown ’86

Marion Cangemi

Ali Chahlavi

Jed Davis

Sujata Deshmukh

William Erwin Jr. ’80

Lindsay Eyrick ’98

Dana Fender

Michael Hodge ’90

William Kappaz

Michael Meyers

Michael Morales ’96

Russell Newton III

Derek O’Leary

Kathryn Pearson Peyton

Lauren Rueger

Francis Sanchez

Karen Stone

DeWayne Terry ’84

Matthew Wotiz

Ex-Officio

Members

Karen Gray ’84 Bartram

Alumni Board, Chair

Tim Miller ’05

Alumni Board, Vice-Chair

Chris Stubbs ’67

Board of Visitors, Chair

Darsi & Marc Edwards

Parent Association, Chairs

PresidentEmeritus

Harry M. deMontmollin Jr. ’56*

TrusteesEmeriti

Quinn R. Barton Jr. ’46

Ann C. Hicks ’55 Bartram

E. Ellis Zahra Jr. ’64

James V. Bent Sr. ’53*

John W. Connolly Jr.*

William K. Hatcher ’48*

Beverley W. Hirsig ’46*

Helen M. Lane ’42 Bartram*

Hal Lynch*

Robert H. Paul III ’52*

Frederick H. Schultz ’46*

A. Chester Skinner Jr. ’40*

Herman Ulmer Jr. ’37*

George W. Varn ’38*

W. Lester Varn Jr. ’42*

*Deceased

CONGRATULATIONS BOLLES CLASS OF 2 26

Learn more about the Class of 2026 and view a complete list of graduates.

Class of 2026 Facts

Bolles Class of 2026 graduates were offered or qualified for more than $22 million in merit-based scholarships over their four-year college careers.

31 graduates are “Lifers” — attending Bolles since Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten.

Class of 2026 graduates were accepted at 206 different colleges, universities and service academies and will enroll in 97.

50% of Bolles Class of 2026 graduating seniors residing in Florida qualified for Florida Bright Futures Scholarships.

204 of the 211 graduates will directly attend college. Two are undecided, one is doing a postgraduate year, four international students plan to attend college in their home country and one graduate is enrolling in trade school.

Class of 2026 graduates will be attending colleges in 28 different states, the District of Columbia and Canada. 59 student-athletes, the most ever from a single class at Bolles, will be attending 49 different colleges in 13 different sports, representing 25 athletic conferences.

33 graduates are legacy Bolles students — they have parents or grandparents who attended Bolles or Bartram. 3

63% qualified for some sort of merit-based awards.

Class of 2026 Colleges Attending List

“As

a boarding student at Bolles, I’ve enjoyed meeting my classmates from other countries and learning more about their cultures. One of my favorite memories is helping our lacrosse team win the Regional Championship and advance to the State Final Four!” ayden itc ell

“Some of my best Bolles memories come from my sports teams. I really loved getting to be a varsity athlete throughout high school and being on competitive teams while also still having fun.”

Dallis Morgan ’26

“My

best memories would be playing softball every year since I first enrolled at Bolles in 6th grade.”

Leah Batts ’26

University of Florida University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)

“What I love most about Bolles is how it brought so many incredible people into my life. I’ve met amazing people, made lifelong friends, and I even found another family in the dorms. I know I’ll carry these memories with me forever.”

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Bolles for Life

The following seniors have attended Bolles since they were in Pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten. Congratulations to the 2026 Bolles Lifers and a big thank you to you and your families for such dedication to the Bolles educational experience.

Jay Bhanu Alanghat ’26

Lauren Marie Barksdale ’26

Danielle May Baum ’26

Riley Annika Bryan ’26

Alexandra Sophia Clutter ’26

Lauren Kate Davis ’26

Sean Robert Doyle ’26

Colin Daniel Flanigan ’26

Zachary Adam Gratz ’26

Marcus Daniel Harris ’26

JohnMarko Kountouroudas James ’26

Nishta Jijosh ’26

Eduardo Justiz ’26

Grace Elizabeth Kramarich ’26

Miriam Alexandra Lieb ’26

Jay Yuvraj Manohar ’26

Jack Tarver Pearson ’26

Leonardo Petrucelli ’26

Meghanne Ann Posick ’26

Anya Erica Ragatz ’26

Arrian Krishan Sharma ’26

Bailey Shilling ’26

Carter Day Smith ’26

Caden Alexander Wilson Spohr ’26

Olivia Diehr Stromberg ’26

Benjamin Thomas ’26

Noah Thomas Wasserman ’26

Elizabeth Lee Watkins ’26

Jesse Alexander Williams ’26

John Anthony Williams ’26

Abigail Grace Wohlgemuth ’26

Class of 2026 Legacy Seniors

The Bolles School is proud to recognize seniors who joined their family members as alumni. Legacy seniors are defined as those who have a parent, grandparent or great-grandparent who graduated from The Bolles School or the Bartram School for Girls.

Ezekiel Forrest Ansley ’26

Patton Avera ’26

Joaquim Paulo Balesdent Gasparian ’26

William James Barakat ’26

Manning Greer Boree ’26

John Edward Burnett ’26

Audrey R. Cummings ’26

Roman Pleasant Davis ’26

Andrew Kelly Day ’26

Jayan Rahul Deshmukh ’26

George Constantine Dovellos ’26

Lian Dyer ’26

Lauren Fant ’26

Colin Daniel Flanigan ’26

Lawson Alexander Holt ’26

Jan Malcolm Jones IV ’26

Jack M. Jones V ’26

Louis G. Joos ’26

Charlotte Frances Joseph ’26

Neal Aalok Kuthiala ’26

Emily Pelzer Loftin ’26

Cooper Ellis Matson ’26

Sarah Lane Morales ’26

Wyatt Dangerfield Pietschker ’26

Nikhil Akavaram Reddy ’26

Michael Frederick Shad ’26

Bailey Shilling ’26

Alyce Elizabeth Smith ’26

Emily Kate Stevenson ’26

Elisabeth Stewart ’26

Olivia Diehr Stromberg ’26

Andrew Zachary Wolpoff ’26

Madison Joan Wotiz ’26

*Enjoy our legacy photos in Alumni Notes

“My favorite Bolles memories are traveling to cheer on the football team at away games especially at the State Championship.”

Addison Trovato ’26

Ford McCarthy, Boston College

James McCranie, Washington and Lee University

Women’s Basketball

Evie Freeman, Tennessee Tech University (also track and field)

Ari Walker, Flagler College

Women’s Cross Country/Track & Field

Camilla Clarke, Howard University (track & field only)

Evie Freeman, Tennessee Tech University (also basketball)

Charlotte Joseph, University of Richmond

Terrell McCoy, University of Illinois (track & field only)

Sienna Starks, Kennesaw State University (track & field only)

Football

Caleb Barnes, Charleston Southern University

Naeem Burroughs, Clemson University

Simeon Caldwell, Ohio State University

Chance Faucheaux, Bates College

Corbyn Fordham, Florida State University

James Gibbs, Sewanee: The University of the South Ryan Ingram, Wagner College

Reid Koelbel, University of West Florida

JJ Sparks, University of Miami

Santana Starks, Lindenwood University

Andre Tarrance, Keiser University

Jaden Weatherly, Glenville State University

Sean Doyle, McGill University

Will Martell, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Cooper Matson, Sewanee: The University of the South Jayden Mitchell, Florida Institute of Technology

Ty Teschner, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Cam Zielinski, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Women’s Lacrosse

Anna Giordano, University of Oregon

Men’s Rowing

Noah Wasserman, University of San Diego

Women’s Rowing

Lizzy Watkins, Syracuse University

“I love Bolles because of the opportunities athletics has given to me and the lifelong friendships I’ve been able to make through sports as well!”
Evie Freeman ’26

For a quarter century, the Ottenstroer Excellence in Teaching Fellowships have expanded faculty horizons, sharpened expertise and enriched learning at The Bolles School. Funded by Duane and Sue Ottenstroer, the fellowships recognize excellent educators and provide resources for summer study, research or travel.

Since its inception, 117 educators have undertaken 123 projects spanning five continents. Faculty design proposals tied to their disciplines, presenting them each spring and sharing insights with colleagues and students upon their return.

“The vision behind the Ottenstroer Fellowships continues to shape teaching and learning across Bolles,” said Bolles President and Head of School Tyler Hodges. “This program reflects a belief in our educators and the lasting impact they have on students. We are grateful for the Ottenstroers’ shared commitment to that vision.”

“There truly are not words that reflect the opportunity that an Ottenstroer Fellowship instills in an educator.”

Michael and Wanda Fritton, Bolles Middle School Bartram Campus

“Through the landscape of America’s national parks, we discovered natural forms of slope, parabolas, parallel lines, concentric circles, rays, and so much more. We were inspired to find math all around us.”

Lara and Dan Tamblyn, Bolles Middle School Bartram Campus

Middle School English Teacher Deborah Carney at Globe Theatre in London
Middle School Math Teacher Lara Tamblyn in Utah

Some Fellows focus close to home, enhancing campus environments, developing digital resources and uncovering real world applications of math and science. Others pursue scientific inquiry through fieldwork, from studying the night sky to exploring natural systems, helping students see concepts in action.

“It was an eye-opening experience to see how a ‘less is more’ philosophy [in Finland]—less testing

and homework, but more recess and hands-on skills—creates such happy, capable students.”

Jill Bobbitt (retired), Bolles Lower School Whitehurst Campus

Lower School Science Teachers Andi Oldham and Carolyn Houston in Iceland
Upper School Physics Teacher Devan Skapetis in Switzerland
Upper School English Teacher Janet Robinson in United Kingdom

Lower School Ponte Vedra Beach Campus Librarian and Media Specialist Christina Karvounis in Japan

Many projects extend far beyond campus. Fellows have traveled throughout Europe to study history, art and architecture, engaging directly with the places that influenced their subjects. Others have immersed themselves in cultures across Asia, Africa and South America, examining language, identity and storytelling while gaining broader perspective.

The real measure of the program lies not in miles traveled but in minds opened. Faculty return with new materials, insights and examples that make lessons more relevant and engaging. This leads to students gaining a deeper understanding of the people, places and ideas behind their studies.

As Bolles marks 25 years of the Ottenstroer Excellence in Teaching Fellowships, the program continues to reflect a guiding principle: when teachers grow, students benefit.

“I gained valuable knowledge and insights that I was eager to bring back to my classroom.”
Kaki Movsovitz, Bolles Lower School Ponte Vedra Beach Campus

2025 Ottenstroer Fellows Trek Across the World

This year’s Fellows continued a tradition of exploration, bringing new insight and experience back to Bolles classrooms.

Brad Bullington ’02

Upper School Chemistry Teacher

WYOMING

Bullington explored astrophotography in Wyoming’s dark-sky landscapes, studying the chemistry of the universe through observation.

Gabrielle Fudge

Middle School English Teacher

ENGLAND AND NORMANDY

Fudge examined how literature, history and technology intersect through immersive study of World War II sites.

Anna Jacobson

Upper School English Teacher INDIA

Jacobson traveled through rural India, exploring storytelling, culture and the power of student voice.

Stephanie McNesby

Upper School History and AP Research Teacher

GREECE AND ROME

McNesby studied classical civilizations and Renaissance influence through firsthand exploration of historic sites.

Devan Skapetis

Upper School Physics Instructor EUROPE

Skepatis investigated connections among science, history and the natural world across diverse European landscapes.

Learn more about their fellowship experiences and classroom impact.

Bolles Announces New Director of College Counseling

The Bolles School is pleased to welcome Anna Lee Buehn as the new Director of College Counseling. Buehn comes to Bolles from the Jesuit College Preparatory School in Dallas where she has been their Director of College Counseling since 2024. Buehn attended Southern Methodist University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History with a minor in Italian Area Studies.

While at Jesuit Dallas, an independent all-boys school serving students in Grades 9 through 12, she led a team of four counselors, created a comprehensive four-year college counseling curriculum, oversaw the SAT/ACT/PSAT test prep program and redesigned the college profile for the school. Previously, Buehn served as the Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admission at Southern Methodist University from 2022-2024, where she managed recruitment territories, oversaw Honors and Scholar Communities selection and yield and led onboarding and professional development for admissions staff.

Buehn will be taking the place of longtime Bolles faculty member Daphne Vagenas who is moving to the new position of Advisory Program Coordinator for the upper school. “We are most excited to welcome Anna to Bolles and know that she will be a tremendous asset to our program’s development,” said Head of Upper School Moya Marks. “She stood out as an excellent fit among the numerous candidates interviewed for the position.”

Although Buehn currently lives in Dallas, she is originally from Alma, Georgia and her husband is from Jacksonville, so they are excited to relocate to Northeast Florida. Buehn will be joining our team this summer.

Anna Lee Buehn

Bolles Scholars Excel Across Academic Arenas

Bolles students continue to stand out in academic competitions across campuses and beyond. From an international robotics competition to standout performances in world language classrooms, students earned top awards, set new benchmarks and secured selective invitations. This roundup highlights a sample of the talent, dedication and expanding expertise shaping academic life at Bolles.

Speech and Debate Team Shines at State Championships

The Bolles School Speech and Debate Team earned top honors at the Florida Civics & Debate Initiative State Championships April 18-19 at New College of Florida in Sarasota, finishing as the top scoring high school and top scoring middle school in the state. Bolles qualified a program-record 44 entries across multiple events with many students earning podium finishes and several moving on to compete at Nationals in Washington, D.C.

Bolles Juniors Win Data for Good AI Challenge

Jake Kovacocy ’27, Gabriel Alvares de Azevedo ’27 and Tudor Vlad ’27 took first place at the 2026 CodeforAwhile Data for Good AI Challenge, hosted by Florida Data Science for Social Good at the University of North Florida March 28-29. The juniors were recognized for the development of the Jacksonville Health Equity website/app they created to identify life expectancy disparities across Duval County zip codes, using readily available census data, and show where resources are needed most in an interactive “heat map.”

World Language Students Perform Exceptionally on National Exams

Bolles students excelled on the National French, Latin and Spanish Exams this spring, with eight Bulldogs earning perfect scores on their respective tests. Perfect scorers included: French Level I students Lucas Ania Berti ’30 and Juliana Costantini ’27; Latin II student Imaan Khawaja ’29; and Spanish students Wisty Gabriel ’30 (Level I), Kathy Landa ’30 (Level I), Aksh Majithia ’30 (Level I), Lynn Ibrahim ’29 (Level II) and Piera Carvalho Pinto C Visconti ’27 (Level III).

State Competition, both organized by Bolles Chinese teacher Chengmei Rothschild.

The festivities began Friday on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus, where students showcased their talents through performances and cultural displays. Guests enjoyed a Chinese night market–style dinner, interactive activities and a fireworks finale that lit up the night. Competition events continued Saturday as students from across the state participated in Reading, Listening, Speaking and Cultural Jeopardy categories.

During the weekend, Bolles Upper School Head Moya Marks was also honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Chinese Education from the Florida Chinese Teachers Association (FCTA), recognizing her 20 years of dedication and contributions to Chinese language education in Florida.

This year marked the third time Bolles has hosted the statewide event. The School also holds the distinction of founding both the inaugural Chinese State Competition and its 10th anniversary event.

Watch a highlight video from the event.

Bartram Campus Launches Special Olympics Young Athletes Program

The Bolles Middle School Bartram Campus launched its first Special Olympics Young Athletes program this year, bringing students together with children ages 2 to 7 with intellectual disabilities for weekly sports-based activities centered on fun, connection and service.

About 25 Bartram student volunteers dedicated Saturday mornings throughout the winter and spring, hosting eight sessions that introduced basic skills such as running, kicking and throwing while building social skills including sharing, taking turns and following directions. As the weeks progressed, tentative first meetings gave way to high fives, hugs and excited reunions as relationships formed.

Bolles Head of Middle School Bartram Campus Josh Bauman said the program allowed students to learn about intellectual disabilities firsthand while developing empathy and perspective.

“Our students brought energy and joy and showed exceptional patience, flexibility and compassion,” Bauman said. “It was powerful to see how thoughtfully they connected with their athlete buddies and how excited families were to return week after week.”

Bauman also credits adult coaches—middle school drama teacher Michael Fritton and his wife, Wanda Fritton, coordinator of inclusion and belonging Michael Stephens and Bolles Assistant Head of Middle School Jackie Willingham—as well as Special Olympics partners who supported the effort.

“I’m incredibly proud of how the students and faculty served,” Bauman said. “This experience showed the kind of impact they can have in their communities, and we’re excited to keep building this program.”

Lower School Art Shows Celebrate Dazzling Works

Bolles lower schools celebrated student creativity across both campuses with vibrant spring showcases.

On April 24, the Ponte Vedra Beach Campus transformed Ponte Vedra Hall into a colorful gallery for its annual Spring Fling and all-campus art show, featuring imaginative works—from koi fish and candy-themed sneakers to 3D bugs—curated by art and iLab teacher Heather Hagy, along with an interactive nod to the school’s Kindness Installation. See sidebar on right on page 23.

A week later, on May 1, the Whitehurst Campus hosted its fourth annual Art Extravaganza, where more than 3,000 pieces of student artwork lined walkways and shared spaces. Organized by art teacher Elizabeth Crawford, the outdoor exhibit highlighted diverse media and styles, making both events standout celebrations of artistic expression for our youngest Bulldogs.

New 3D Printers Installed in Copeland Library on Whitehurst Campus

This spring, the Copeland Library on the Bolles Lower School Whitehurst Campus added new 3D printers, expanding the capabilities of the Innovation Lab where students imagine, design and create.

Funded by Glenn and Michael Miller through the Miller Innovation Fund, the printers are already being incorporated into student projects across grade levels. From simple prototypes to creative designs, students are using the technology to explore ideas in hands-on, meaningful ways.

The addition of 3D printing continues to enhance the library as a space for exploration and innovation, giving students new opportunities to engage with design thinking and emerging tools.

PVB Students Build a Living Artwork of Kindness

During Random Acts of Kindness Week, the Bolles Lower School Ponte Vedra Beach Campus iLab was transformed into “The Kindness Installation,” an immersive art experience led by art teacher and iLab coordinator Heather Hagy and guidance counselor Sherry Bowen. Inspired by contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama’s “Obliteration Room,” students explored how a pristine white space can be transformed through collective creativity. The iLab began as an all white room filled with white painted objects, from toy dump trucks to ceramic pumpkins and miniature flamingos and opened after Flag on February 27 with parents invited to place the first stickers.

Throughout the day, every class visited the installation, adding

Glenn and Michael Miller, Sandy ’34, Zoey ’34 and Elijah ’33

Success Realized: Bulldogs Continue to Shine in Athletic Endeavors

From innovative training routines to dynamic competition strategies, Bolles coaches and athletes realize success through commitment to a common purpose. Success means more than just championship titles and winning records to our Bulldogs; it is the culmination of hard work, team bonds and good sportsmanship.

Bolles varsity teams added six state championships, along with two state runner-up finishes, 13 district titles, a middle school state runner-up finish and three middle school conference championships. Bolles has now won 169 varsity state championships along with 107 state runner-up finishes, 571 district titles and 73 middle school conference championships.

In the fall season, Bolles added to its impressive streak of state championships in girls’ and boys’ swimming and diving, adding a national and state record, four school records and winning 16 events at the state meet. The girls’ team won their 35th consecutive state title and 39th overall and the boys won the program’s 38th consecutive state title, extending their nation-leading streak, and 47th overall. The teams continued their streaks of region and district titles as well.

Swim Team with State Trophies
Cross Country Teams at State

The boys’ cross country team won the Class 2A team title and the girls placed second at the state championships. The state title is the ninth in boys’ program history and the Bulldogs have placed in the top two at state for ten straight years. The girls’ team earned its 13th runner-up finish, placing in the top two for 18 straight seasons. The boys’ team also won team titles at the region and district meets and Bolles placed second in the private school girls’ division at the Middle School State Championships.

The varsity football team advanced to the advanced to the state final for the 20th time in program history, finishing as state runner-up for the ninth time. The Bulldogs posted a 13-2 overall record and won the program’s 35th district title.

The girls’ golf team qualified for the state tournament for the 11th straight season, placing ninth in the team standings. The girls also

The winter sports season saw another impressive postseason run for the girls’ basketball team as the Bulldogs advanced to the state semifinals for the second straight season, adding the program’s sixth district title as well. The JV girls’ basketball team posted an undefeated season with a 12-0 record and the middle school girls’ basketball team won the Independent Middle School Conference Championship for the fourth season in a row and eighth overall.

Soccer highlights included the girls’ varsity advancing to the regional semifinals and the middle school boys winning the IMSC, posting a perfect 16-0 season record in Coach Michael Akabekjan’s final season after 42 years on the sidelines.

Middle School Baseball IMSC Champs
Girls’ Basketball Region Champs
Girls’ Weightlifting
Middle School Girls’ IMSC Champs
Middle School Boys’ Soccer IMSC Champs

The girls’ track and field team won the program’s seventh team state championship, tying for first in the team standings at the Class 2A meet on May 7 at UNF. The state title is Head Coach Tony Ryan’s first as the girls’ track and field head coach and second in track and field having coached the Bolles boys to a title in 1999. He served as an assistant coach for the girls’ previous six titles and has won 13 state titles in girls’ cross country in his career. Individual state champions for the Bolles girls were Sienna Starks ’26 in the pole vault and Evie Freeman ’26 in the long jump. State runner-up finishes included Terrell McCoy ’26 in the shot put, Sofie Stam ’29 in the 1600 and 3200 and the 4x800 relay (Stam, Ella McGowan ’26, Lila McGowan ’28, Charlotte Joseph ’26). The girls’ team also won district and region team titles. Highlights for the boys’ team include a state runner-up finish in the 3200 for Aaron Ches ’28, along with seventh-place state finishes from Aidan Chandler ’27 in the 1600 and the 4x800 relay (Ches, Chandler, Brantley Rigdon ’28, Kiran Parekh’ 27).

Griffin Vollertsen ’27 won Bolles’ first boys’ weightlifting state title in 19 years to lead the Bulldogs’ efforts at the Class 1A State Championships on May 8. Vollertsen is the seventh Bolles lifter to win a state championship in program history. He totaled 600 pounds to win the Olympic category (snatch + clean and jerk) in the 238/ under weight class. Vollertsen led an impressive overall effort for Bolles as all five Bulldogs competing at the championships earned top 10 finishes in their respective weight classes including a state runner-up finish from Asher Ghioto ’28.

Flag Football was added to the Bolles Athletics offerings for girls and the program’s inaugural season in 2026 set the bar high. The newest

Bulldog team won its first game and went on to win 17 more with just three losses, winning a district championship, regional title and advancing to the State Final Four.

The Bolles boys’ lacrosse team advanced to the state semifinals for the eighth time in program history, won its 19th district title and finished the season with a 23-1 record. The girls’ lacrosse team advanced to the regional finals for the first time in program history and won its third district title.

The Bolles girls’ and boys’ tennis teams both advanced to the state tournament, with the girls reaching the semifinals. Both teams won district titles as well, the 46th in program history for the girls and the 45th for the boys.

The varsity softball team advanced to the regional semifinals and improved their overall season record by 12 wins from the previous season. The Bolles varsity baseball team advanced to the regional semifinals and the middle school team concluded the season with a perfect 16-0 record and the program’s ninth IMSC title.

Congratulations to all our Bulldog student-athletes on another successful year!

Flag Football District Champs
Softball Team Celebrating
Boys’ Tennis District Champs
Boys’ Lacrosse District Champs

Riley Miller ’26 of the U.S. Virgin Islands won seven medals — two gold, three silver and two bronze. Miller won gold in the 50 fly in a CARIFTA record and won the 100 back. She also earned silver in the 50 back, 100 fly and 100 free as well as bronze in the 50 free and 200 back.

Marleigh Howes ’26 won gold with Bermuda’s 400 medley relay team.

Leah Chin ’26 of Jamaica earned silver in the 50 fly and 50 free and bronze in the 50 back, 100 back, 400 free relay and 200 free relay.

Lev Fahy ’28, swimming for the Cayman Islands, totaled nine medals. He won gold in the 400 free along with three silver medals in the 200 IM, 400 medley relay and 800 free relay. Fahy added bronze medals in the 50 back, 100 back, 200 back, 200 free and 400 free relay.

Alumnus Antoine Destang ’25, a freshman at the University of Michigan and swimming for St. Lucia, earned silver in the 100 fly and 100 free.

Also competing at CARIFTA were Jessica Deniston ’28 (Jamaica), Fayth Jeffrey ’27 (St. Lucia) and David Singh ’28 (Bahamas).

“A special part of Bolles is the opportunity to support our athletes as they represent their home nations on an international stage,” said Bolles Varsity Head Coach and Sharks Assistant Senior Coach Jake Gibbons ’15. “I’ve been fortunate to coach at major meets across the U.S. and internationally, and nothing compares to the energy at CARIFTA—noisemakers, cowbells, drums and loud music for hours on end. It’s exciting, it’s exhausting and it creates a demanding schedule—but our athletes consistently rise to the moment. As a coach, it’s a privilege to support them through that experience and it’s also a unique opportunity to connect with an incredible international community of coaches, athletes and families.”

Marleigh Howes ’26
Alumnus Antoine Destang ’25
Leah Chin ’26
Lev Fahy ’28

From the Office of Advancement

One of the most important lessons we can teach—and model for— our students at The Bolles School is that true leadership includes an “all-in” commitment to stewardship. This principle has been at the heart of a Bolles education since the School’s founding in 1933. The opportunities our students experience today exist because generations of donors before them believed deeply in the enduring value and impact of a Bolles education. Their farsighted generosity has helped ensure Bolles students continue to pursue excellence at the highest levels while also inspiring—rather, insisting—that today’s Bulldogs carry the same spirit of leadership and philanthropy forward.

I am proud to share this legacy of stewardship is advancing in real time. This spring, we celebrated the Class of 2026 becoming the fourth graduating class to establish a class endowment before crossing the stage at Commencement Pointe, joining the Classes of 2023, 2024 and 2025 in creating a legacy of support for future Bulldogs. Momentum continues to grow as additional classes— including the Classes of 2029, 2000, 1990, 1972, and 1970—also have established endowments that will support The Bolles School in perpetuity. These gifts represent an early dedication to philanthropy and an understanding that giving back is a requirement for building a meaningful legacy.

This is a historic moment for our School, one that is inspiring a renewed focus on legacy-building at Bolles. That is why Bolles is working toward a $175 million endowment, a goal that sustains the School’s future and builds upon its legacy as one of the best schools in the world. Class endowment leaders, donors and philanthropists across the decades show us we all have an important role to play in Bolles’ future — our generational commitment to excellence requires it.

I am exceedingly grateful for the generosity of our alumni, parents, grandparents, students, faculty and staff who embody the longstanding spirit of All Things Possible through their support. As a collective, we are designing something far greater than ourselves. How wonderful to see we are building a legacy rooted in courage, integrity, compassion and a shared belief in the enduring value and impact of a Bolles education. Go, Bulldogs!

With gratitude,

Bolles Unveils Chappell Fieldhouse and Chipper Jones Stadium at Historic Home Opener

The Bolles School celebrated a landmark moment at the 2026 varsity baseball home opener February 13, unveiling the newly renovated Bolles Baseball Complex — featuring the Jerry and Bruce Chappell Fieldhouse and Chipper Jones Stadium.

National Baseball Hall of Fame member Chipper Jones ’90 returned to the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus to help commemorate this historic occasion.

complex for a community celebration highlighted by Jones and Perry Chappell ’89, who threw out the ceremonial first pitches to Bolles baseball benefactor and assistant coach Palmer Knight ’89 and former Chicago Cub Rick Wilkins ’85. The Bulldogs capped the revelry with an 11-3 win over Oakleaf.

This transformational project was made possible through the generosity of Bolles alumni, families and friends committed to strengthening the legacy of Bolles Baseball. The project came to fruition through the collaborative generosity of Bolles benefactors and the support of dedicated alumni ambassadors, including Knight, who was instrumental in strengthening the School’s connection with Jones. The $3.7 million baseball complex renovation was designed by David

Join the Bolles Alumni Association to watch a Coaches Corner interview with Chipper Jones ’90 and his father Larry Jones Sr. on the Alumni+ Network, led by Advancement team member Rahul Sharma ’03.

The Jerry and Bruce Chappell Fieldhouse features approximately 3,000 square feet of modern baseball training and support spaces, including a locker room, video room, coaches’ offices and a lobby showcasing more than 50 years of Bolles Baseball excellence. Stadium enhancements include an upper-level terrace with dual towers and an architectural design that echoes historic Bolles Hall. Other named spaces in the new facility include Barco Bullpen and Poppy’s Garden at the entrance of the Chappell Fieldhouse, which honors the late Jerry Chappell, an avid gardener and dedicated Bolles Baseball fan.

Planning for the facility began in 2021, coupled with a ceremonial groundbreaking in December 2024. Thomas May Construction, the assigned general contractor, began work shortly thereafter to complete the facility for the 2026 season. #GoBulldogs

Watch the event video from the Bolles Baseball Complex unveiling.

Larry Jones Sr., Lynne Jones, Taylor Jones, Chipper Jones ’90

Bolles Announces $8.2 Million Gift from the Kernan and George H. Hodges Jr. ’56 Estate

The Bolles School is pleased to announce an unprecedented $8.2 million planned gift from the realized estate of Kernan and George H. Hodges Jr. ’56 — the largest single contribution ever made to the School since it was established in 1933.

Bolles Chief Advancement Officer Carol Nimitz said this landmark gift provides the enduring resources needed to care for a premier athletic venue, affirming the essential role of the student-athlete experience at Bolles and reflecting extraordinary confidence in the School’s mission.

The funds are designated for the long-term upkeep and maintenance of George H. Hodges Field on the Bolles Upper

School San Jose Campus and the facilities/areas that support it in perpetuity. The field is named in honor of the donor’s father, former Bolles Board of Trustees member George H. Hodges, whose leadership and generosity helped shape the venue’s legacy — a legacy that was cherished by both Hodges Jr. and his wife, Kernan.

“Hodges Field is where so many Bolles stories begin — from Friday nights under the lights to championship moments and personal firsts,” Nimitz said. “George and Kernan’s extraordinary estate gift safeguards this tradition and strengthens the future of every program and student-athlete who calls this field home. We are deeply grateful for their enduring commitment to Bolles.”

The field’s history reflects decades of community stewardship and family philanthropy. It was originally named Dads’ Field in 1942 to recognize the dedication, effort and time given by fathers of Bolles cadets. Nine years later, George H. Hodges—a prominent contractor and engineer—took a vital interest in a rejuvenation of the field. As the field’s transformation progressed, the Dads’ Club advised then-Board Chair Fontaine LeMaistre that “because of Mr. George Hodges’ interest in, and financial assistance to, the construction of the Athletic Field, it would like to have the field named the ‘George Hodges’ Field in his honor.”

On October 14, 1955, Hodges Field was dedicated to George H. Hodges during the Bolles vs. Fletcher game. The field was rededicated in 1976 by his widow, Nellie A. Hodges, and Hodges Jr., as part of additional upgrades and renovations under the leadership of A. Chester Skinner Jr. ’40. It was rededicated again in 1984 and 2006 through substantial gifts from Robert Baker ’82 and Kernan and Hodges Jr., who were prominent philanthropists and real estate investors and developers in Jacksonville.

Bolles proudly honors the Hodges family’s extraordinary legacy, preserved for generations on the field that will forever carry the name of George H. Hodges.

ahead of the start of football season, ensuring the field is ready to welcome student-athletes, teams and the Bolles community back under the lights this fall.

Alban Arts and Innovation Center Coming to Bolles Middle School Bartram Campus

Leaders of The Bolles School are thrilled to announce plans for the Alban Arts and Innovation Center on the Bolles Middle School Bartram Campus, made possible by a lead gift from Bree Ringhaver Alban ’96 and David Alban.

This $4 million renovation project involves significant updates to historic North Hall, which once served as the beloved home of the girls’ boarding program and was one of the original buildings from the campus’ early days as the Bartram School for Girls.

The renovation will reimagine the space and expand it into a 6,770-square-foot vibrant innovation and fine arts facility, featuring areas that will support art, band, chorus and robotics programs — along with a state-of-the-art innovation lab that bolsters Bolles’ ongoing commitment to innovation across all academic departments and campuses. It will also include an additional 858 square feet of covered outdoor area, a science classroom and a student-centered recreational space. Construction is estimated to begin September 2026.

Bolles President and Head of School Tyler Hodges said this facility will serve as a hub for creativity, performance, problem-solving and collaboration, reinforcing Bolles’ mission to educate the whole student.

“Renovating North Hall into the Alban Arts and Innovation Center allows us to honor Bolles’ history while investing in what lies ahead,” Hodges said. “We are grateful to the Alban family for their leadership and belief in the power of arts and innovation to shape confident, creative learners.”

Bolles Chief Advancement Officer Carol Nimitz noted the Alban family’s long-standing ties to the School, including their daughter, Carson ’33, and emphasized the role the family’s lead gift plays in advancing this carefully planned Bartram Campus investment.

“This project will play an important role in shaping the middle school experience at Bolles for years to come,” Nimitz said. “We are thankful for the Alban family’s support and for the care and intention this gift brings to a space designed with students at its center.”

As plans for the Alban Arts and Innovation Center continue to take shape, additional naming opportunities remain for members of the Bolles community to support the project. Please contact Bolles Chief Advancement Officer Carol Nimitz at NimitzC@Bolles.org for more information.

Transformational Campus Projects

The Bolles School continues to advance its long-term vision through thoughtful planning, generous philanthropy and steady progress. Three significant projects—the Liggett Hall expansion for girls’ boarding, the Dream Finders Homes Athletic Performance Center and the renovation of the Canteen in the Bent Student Center— are advancing, each poised to enhance the student experience.

Momentum is building on Phase II of the Llura “Lulie” Liggett Gund ’58 Residence Hall for Girls, as the School prepares for the opening of Liggett Hall on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus at the start of the 2026–27 school year.

This phase focuses on the renovation of the second floor of Bolles Hall’s south wing into a vibrant residential space designed to strengthen community among girls in the boarding program. When complete, Liggett Hall will include 22 dorm rooms along with Lulie Commons, a spacious gathering area designed to foster connection, collaboration and daily life together.

The expansion has been made possible through the extraordinary generosity of Gordon Gund and his sons, Grant and Zack, in honor of Llura “Lulie” Liggett Gund ’58 Bartram. Their gift continues to shape the experience of students from around the world who call Bolles home.

With students currently representing dozens of countries and states, the Resident Life program remains one of the School’s most

At the same time, planning is actively underway for another major addition to the San Jose Campus: the Dream Finders Homes Athletic Performance Center (DFH-APC).

Following the announcement of a landmark $6 million gift from Dream Finders Homes founder Patrick Zalupski in October 2025, the School has taken an important next step by selecting kasper architects to design the facility. This partnership marks a key milestone as the project advances from vision to design.

The DFH-APC will be a leading-edge facility designed to elevate training, recovery and education for Bolles athletes across all sports. The center will feature an 8,100-square-foot weight room, advanced strength and conditioning equipment, integrated sports science technology, a hydrotherapy room and a training and recovery room, with plenty of space for teaching, learning and leadership development.

This summer, the Canteen in the Bent Student Center on the San Jose Campus, a popular gathering and dining spot, will be renovated to elevate the students’ culinary experience, with a new kitchen, updated seating and improved areas for Bulldogs to eat, converse and study.

As plans progress and designs take shape, the School looks ahead with gratitude for the donors and leaders helping bring these projects to life.

Girls’ Dorm Expansion Canteen Construction
Dream Finders Homes Athletic Performance Center

Bolles Breaks Ground on Phase II of Aquatic Center

Several supporters of the Bolles swimming and diving program including alumni, parents, current and former coaches and members of the School administration gathered for the Bolles Phase II Aquatics groundbreaking ceremony on January 21. Phase II adds to the facility enhancements completed in 2021 including Tarver Pool along with the Murphy Olympic Walk, Gold Scoreboard, Zorn Stadium and Meyers-Labenz Family Pool Deck.

Phase II will include the Hodges Champions Club, a two-story facility named in honor of the late Kernan and George H. Hodges Jr. ’56 through their realized estate. This new facility will overlook both Uible Pool and Hodges Field, also George’s namesake, at Skinner-Barco Stadium. Located on the second-story south wing of the Hodges Champions Club will be the Steve Gold Coaches Suite, named in honor of longtime program supporter, swim parent, alumnus and past Bolles Board member Steve Gold ’95.

Located on the second-story north wing will be the Chester Skinner Champions Suite, named in honor of one of the most impactful supporters of the School and through the contributions of Rusty Newton and Kathy Skinner Newton ’72 as they carry on the philanthropic efforts of Kathy’s father A. Chester Skinner Jr. ’40. This wing will have a dedicated terrace with panoramic views

of Skinner-Barco Stadium and Uible Pool and will allow visitors to enjoy warm hospitality while watching a multitude of Bolles sports teams play on the field and in the pool as well as a central location where championships at Bolles will be celebrated.

Past Head Coach Gregg Troy and Head Swimming and Diving Coach and Aquatics Director Peter Verhoef

The Gregg Troy Welcome Center will be named in honor of the Hall of Fame coach who guided numerous Olympic, collegiate and high school champions in his tenures at Bolles and the University of Florida. The Welcome Center was supported by a multitude of Bolles alumni and families to recognize Troy. There will also be a new dedicated dryland space that was made possible by past swim parents Chris and Shelly Lanning, as well as parents of current and alumni swimmers Justin ’98 and Kinsey Powell and their extended family, Al and Sandy Powell.

“It took a lot of donors to get us to where we are today and I am very grateful to you all,” said President and Head of School Tyler Hodges. “The Bolles Swimming and Diving Program is a dynasty that was built by legendary coaches and generation after generation of swimmers and divers showing their best grit in the pools. With the completion of Phase II, our Aquatics facilities will reflect that incredible history while shaping future champions.”

During the ceremony, Head Swimming and Diving Coach and Aquatics Director Peter Verhoef shared the impact these facilities will have on Bolles student-athletes and thanked all who contributed to ensure the program’s continued success.

Watch Coach Verhoef’s remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony.

Joos Family Gift Expands Aquatics Training at Bolles

dedication, hard work and a commitment to something greater than themselves,” Joos said. “Supporting the Aquatics Training Facility is our way of investing in a tradition that has given so much to our family and will benefit student-athletes for years to come.”

The Joos family’s connection to Bolles swimming runs deep, from Joos’ time on the varsity swim team to all four of his children’s involvement in the program. Sophia Joos ’24 now swims at Emory, and Louis Joos ’26 will continue his academic and swim career at Yale.

Their gift reflects both gratitude and a commitment to future generations of Bolles swimmers.

“The Bolles School and its nationally ranked swim team have played an important role in shaping our four children, instilling in them

The 3,390-square-foot turf triangle expands the footprint of the Aquatics Training Facility, creating a versatile space where swimmers can engage in strength and conditioning, dryland workouts and team-focused activities. Key benefits of on-land training for swimmers include the development of physical strength, core and body posture applications, as well as injury prevention.

For Head Swimming and Diving Coach and Aquatics Director Peter Verhoef, that added space is essential to the continued growth of the program.

“Each year, our coaches work hard to develop our swimmers as athletes and together as a team,” Verhoef said. “Both of those things take space — and not always in the pool. Our families have embraced this facet of our program, and with the help of the Joos family, we continue to expand where and what we can offer our swimmers each day.”

Verhoef emphasized that the impact of the Joos family’s gift will extend far beyond the physical addition itself.

“Through their gift, the number of swimmers who will have memories of team workouts and learning moments on our ‘turf triangle’ will be countless,” he said

Golf Teams Enhance Training with Indoor Practice Space

The Bolles boys’ and girls’ golf teams are benefiting from enhanced training opportunities with the new Golf Practice Facility, a refurbished space in the Colmery Skills Physical Development Center located on the ground floor of Skinner-Barco Stadium. The area includes a newly installed Trackman, a market-leading launch monitor and simulator.

The space now provides practice opportunities when inclement weather or golf course availability is limited, ensuring student-athletes can maintain competitive form year-round during the offseason. In addition to having convenient, climate-controlled space on the San Jose Campus, the Trackman technology produces real-time data and valuable feedback for the Bolles golfers to analyze their swing as they work on improving their game. That data also provides performance reports, which Bolles coaches can send to college recruiters.

The overall space also serves as a team room, allowing the golf program to have a dedicated place on campus to gather and practice, helping to build the culture of the program.

The Golf Practice Facility was made possible by a lead gift from Will and Zanne Burke. The couple have been long-standing advocates for the Bolles Annual Fund and complimented the coaching staff and administration for sharing the vision with them. Specifically, they expressed appreciation for the coaching staff’s deep commitment to player development. Other contributors to the project included Taylor ’96 and Nate Day, Kellye and Keith Catlin ’94, Marisol Grajales and Leonard Mitchel, and Kelley and Stephen Pierce.

Watch Bolles golfers practice in the simulator.

Will Burke, Zanne Burke, Matthew Burke ’26 and Coach Trey Leonard ’05

Director of Fine Arts Laura Rippel, Dr. Andrew Kaunitz and longtime Whitehurst Campus faculty member Joanne Davis with art teachers Lily Kuonen and Chris Hicks

Bolles Exhibits Dr. Rita Davidson Kaunitz Sculptures in Tribute to Renowned Artist

Dr. Andrew Kaunitz and longtime Whitehurst Campus faculty member Joanne Davis visited the Gooding Gallery on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus to view a display of Dr. Rita Davidson Kaunitz’s sculpture collection that has been loaned to the School by the family.

Dr. Rita Davidson Kaunitz, Andrew’s mother, was a noted artist and sculptor during the 1940s and through the 1980s for her work with marble and bronze. To honor her, the Kaunitz family created The Rita Davidson Kaunitz Endowed Sculpture Award that is presented each year to a Bolles senior art student who excels in sculpture.

Thank you to the entire Kaunitz family for their continued support!

Roland Johnson ’16, Kindt Brady ’14, Tim Miller ’05, Karen Gray ’84 Bartram, David Dunn ’03, Shreena Patel ’98 and Travis Von Tobel ’95

The Bolles Alumni Association Board 2025-26

Karen Gray ’84 Bartram, Chair

Tim Miller ’05, Vice-Chair

Roland Johnson ’16, Secretary

Kindt Brady ’14

David Dunn ’03

Justin Hart ’00

Jerry Hurst ’76

John Langley ’03

Shreena Patel ’98

Carson Vandergriff Richardson ’02

Sid Simmons ’08

Travis Von Tobel ’95

Hunter Walker ’14

Middle school math teacher Joey Hudson, Roland Johnson ’16, Kindt Brady ’14 and middle school P.E. coach Mike Akabekjan

Thanks to members of the Bolles Alumni Association Board who visited the Middle School Bartram Campus January 9 to tour the campus and learn more about the middle school experience for Bolles students.

In addition to hearing from Bartram Campus Head Josh Bauman, Chief Advancement Officer Carol Nimitz also shared updates on the many exciting projects underway as well as the role of class endowments in supporting the School’s continued pursuit of excellence.

Board of Visitors 2025-26

Christopher Stubbs ’67, Chair Sanford, FL

Tal Coley ’96, Vice-Chair Jacksonville, FL

Amy Akel ’05 Denver. CO

John Bacon ’04 Charlotte, NC

Quint Barker V ’86 New York, NY

Christian Bermudez ’15 New York, NY

Wendy Leitman Coleman ’80 Los Angeles, CA

Katherine Prusiecki Davis ’12 Atlanta, GA

Glen Elliott ’01 San Antonio, TX

Adrienne Hume ’11 Boston, MA

Alexander C. King ’07 Boca Raton, FL

Rachel Rice Malvasi ’12 Charlotte, NC

Michael C. Mikulic ’08 Miami, FL

Michael S. Minutelli ’95 Atlanta, GA

Jamil Murray ’11 Dallas, TX

Ryan Ong ’99 Washington, D.C.

Scott Rinehart ’79 South Bend, IN

Gregory Rogowski ’13 New York, NY

Lindsey Speckman ’15 Knoxville, TN

Ashley Tejada ’98 Miami, FL

Bill Thompson III ’98 Washington, D.C.

Catalina Vergara ’92

Los Angeles, CA

Cameron Perry Walker ’18

Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

“This program creates valuable opportunities for students to learn from those experiences and begin thinking more intentionally about their own paths.”
JULIA KALINSKI

The J. Malcolm Jones Jr. Mentorship Program Takes Root

When Bolles students connect with alumni—over muffins, in classrooms or in one-on-one conversations—they are not just exploring careers. They are beginning to imagine what comes next. That idea is at the core of The J. Malcolm Jones Jr. Mentorship Program, now completing its first year. Designed to connect students with alumni mentors who share real-world experience and perspective, the program creates opportunities for exploration, reflection and purposeful conversation throughout the Bolles journey.

Through offerings such as a classroom speaker series, experiential learning and grade-level career exploration, students gain exposure to a wide range of fields — and the alums who have forged careers in them.

As Bolles Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Fund Julia Kalinski explains, the program strengthens connections between students and the Bolles alumni network while helping students envision future pathways beyond Bolles.

“One of the strengths of the Bolles community is the willingness of our alumni to pour into the next generation,” Kalinski said. “This program creates valuable opportunities for students to learn from those experiences and begin thinking more intentionally about their own paths.”

At the heart of the program is The Jones Fellows initiative, with 14 students selected for the inaugural cohort. The group is supported by a growing network of more than 50 mentors representing 10+ industries, all eager to share their time and insight as the program continues to unfold. The program’s growth and coordination have been guided in large part by Bolles mentorship coordinator Ellie Dalkin, whose partnership with faculty and alumni has brought these connections to life.

Early indicators reflect strong engagement. The Jones Fellows cohort is preparing to begin working with alumni mentors across a broad range of fields, and student feedback has been equally encouraging: 99% expressed interest in additional mentorship opportunities, and 92% reported a clearer connection between their studies and real-world careers.

That connection is especially evident in the classroom. Through 17 guest lectures spanning 13 career fields, the alumni speaker series has brought professional perspectives directly into coursework this year. Faculty partnerships across all four campuses have helped tie academic content to future opportunities. As one freshman shared after hearing from Dr. Kevin Kaplan ’95, “This session inspired me to pursue my dreams of becoming a surgeon.”

Beyond the classroom, programs like Muffins & Mentors, Innovation Day and Career Conversations provide space for more

personal exploration. Whether through small-group discussions, STEM- and art-focused events or one-on-one meetings, students are building relationships, asking thoughtful questions and gaining a clearer sense of direction.

With a strong first year in place, The J. Malcolm Jones Jr. Mentorship Program is building a culture of connection — encouraging students to explore their interests, learn from others and take thoughtful steps toward what comes next.

Learn more about the program and read stories about mentors in action.

Matisse VerDuyn ’09 and Charlie Davis ’20
Jodie Snyder Morel ’00

4th annual Doggone Cookout.

The Advancement team joined Alumni Board member Roland Johnson ’16 and a record number of faculty to host the alums for lunch and an opportunity to catch up with classmates and friends.

Everyone enjoyed the lunch, firepit and beautiful weather. Alumni were also gifted souvenir Bulldog gear to celebrate their membership in the Bolles Alumni Association.

Bartram Alumnae Notes

1951

Class Representative: Frances Watts McCurry fmccurry@comcast.net

1955

Class Representative: Beverly Brett Warren bbrettw@hotmail.com

Trustee Emerita: Ann Curry Hicks

1956

Class Representative: Louise Adams Ropp weezier@comcast.net

1959

Alyce Elizabeth Smith ’26, step-granddaughter of Agnes Ellis Danciger and Quinn R. Barton Jr. ’46 and stepdaughter of Quinn Ralph Barton III ’84, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

1961

Class Representative: Meriel Traylor Rucker

1964

Class Representative: Missie Graham Sarra LePrell Missie@Missiesold.com

1965

LEGACY

Michael Frederick Shad ’26, grandson of Jennie Shad and Harold W. Shad III ’64 and son of Lori Rebman Shad ’92 and Jack Lee Shad ’93, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

1966

Class Representative: Marcia Caribaltes Hughes Marciahughes0017@gmail.com

1968

Class Representative: Judy Goins Quick jgquick@bellsouth.net

1969

Class Representative: Virginia Conley Pappas virginiacpappas@gmail.com

1970

Class Representative: Elizabeth Lovett Colledge ecolledge@gmail.com

1971

Class Representative: Kerry Lee Byron Ehrlich klehrlich@cox.net

1974

Class Representative: Joann Ferguson Purdie 2210jrfp@gmail.conm

1975

Class Representative: Marnie Law George marnie@thegeorgegroup.com

1976

Class Representative: Virginia Ferguson McNulty virginia@mcnulty.tv

Smith Sahag ’76 Bartram

Walker Smith Sahag was inducted into the Tennis Foundation of Mississippi Hall of Fame for 2025. She was recognized “for the excellence of her activities and connection with Mississippi, which have brought substantial recognition and esteem to herself and Mississippi.” Walker was quoted as stating, “Tennis has been my life for the past 55 years. It has taken me around the world, but more importantly it has provided the life-long friends and memories that have made my life so rich.” Congratulations, Walker!

1977

Williams Wiegand visited the Upper School San Jose Campus this spring to take a quick tour and look through some of the Bartram School yearbooks in the Alumni Office. While a student

Walker
Jennifer Williams Wiegand ’79 Bartram
Jennifer

at the Bartram School, Jennifer served as the editor of the yearbook (La Femme) and fondly remembers the Bartram staff hosting dances when The Bolles School students would visit their campus. Today, Jennifer and her family reside in the Bahamas, where she runs two businesses and continues to pursue her passion for the arts. Jennifer is also looking forward to reconnecting with her Bartram classmates and getting more involved in the Bolles Alumni Association.

’80s

1980

Class Representative: Hilda Pendleton Fenton mafenton@hotmail.com

1981

Class Representative: Susan Williams Brodeur Brodboys@bellsouth.net

1983

Class Representative: Rebecca Faircloth McNeil marvmcneil@bellsouth.net

1984

Alumni Board: Karen Ferguson Gray, Chair

1986

Class Representative: Patricia “Tricia” Helwig Todd ptodd@drivermcafee.com

1988

Class Representative: Rebecca “Becky” Martin Forbes Rebecca.forbes@me.com

1989

Class Representative: Josephine “Josie” Bryan jbryan@stmarksdayschool.org

Class Representative: Courtney McCranie Moon mrscourtneymoon@gmail.com

1991

Class Representative: Jennifer Purino Hensley jphensley@mac.com

Th e Bartram Class of 197 7
The Bartram Class of 1976

Bolles Alumni Notes

’40s

1946

Class Representative: Fitzhugh “Hugh” Powell hpowell@cwpowellins.com

Trustee Emeritus: Quinn R. Barton Jr.

Alyce Elizabeth Smith ’26, stepdaughter of Quinn Ralph Barton III ’84 and step-granddaughter of Agnes Ellis Danciger ’59 Bartram and Quinn R.Barton Jr., graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026. See image on page 53.

’50s

1953

1952

Class Representative: John Dykers johndykersmd@dykers.com

Class Representative: James “Jim” M. Barker IV jmbchb@aol.com

1954

Class Representative: Hayes “Butch” L. Basford Jr. mccgirts@bellsouth.net

1955

Paul Fletcher passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, in Hendersonville, North Carolina.

1957

Class Representative: Albert “Ted” T. Quantz tedquantz@gmail.com

Bill Bailey died at his home in Mountain Brook. Alabama, on January 18, 2026.

Father Conrad Cowart passed away on November 19, 2025, following an extended illness.

Lauren Fant ’26, daughter of Lauren Lovett Fant ’83 and granddaughter of Julian Earle Fant Jr., graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

1958

Robert Montgomery passed away on November 22, 2025. He attended Bolles during the 1954–55 school year and then graduated from St. John’s Country Day School in 1958.

1959

Class Representative: Barry P. Sales bpsrnr@aol.com

LEGACY
Th e Bolles Class of 197 7

’60s

1960

Andrew Zachary Wolpoff ’26, grandson of Michael Greenburg, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

1961

Class Representative: Ben T. Franklin Jr. bfranklin@southbankgroup.net

Carl Bolch Jr. passed away at his home on December 26, 2025.

1962

Class Representative: Richard “Dick” Hyer Richardhyer44@gmail.com

Class Representative: Creston “Clark” Riffe clarkriffe@gmail.com

1963

Class Representative: Edwin Jackson edwinjackson@icloud.com

1964

Class Representative: Gregory “Greg” W. Blackmer gregblackmer@yahoo.com

Trustee Emeritus: E. Ellis Zahra Jr.

Michael Frederick Shad ’26, son of Lori Rebman Shad ’92 and Jack Lee Shad ’93 and grandson of Jennie Shad ’65 Bartram and Harold W. Shad III, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026. See image on page 54.

1965

Class Representative: Charles “Chuck” P. Torrey Jr. ctorrey1@gmail.com

1966

Class Representative: Shepherd “Shep” E. Colledge Shepherdc904@aol.com

1967

Class Representative: Christopher “Chris” B. Stubbs cbstubbs@snelling.com

Board of Visitors: Chris Stubbs, Chair

Duncan Postma passed away on May 11, 2026, at the Margaret Dozier Hospice House in Tallahassee, Florida, from complications of Parkinson’s Disease.

1969

Class Representative: James “Jim” R. McCain Jr. Jrmjr1951@gmail.com

’70s

1970

Class Representative: F. William Borg Billborg23@yahoo.com

Class Representative: A. Chester “Chip” Skinner III chip@skinnerrealty.com

LEGACY

May 23, 2026.

Madison Joan Wotiz ’26, daughter of Ashley Stein Wotiz ’96 and granddaughter of Martin E. Stein Jr., graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Roman Pleasant Davis ’26, grandson of Andrew Dano Davis, graduated from The Bolles School on

1970 (cont.)

John Hillis Skinner passed away in Lynwood, Washington, on March 19, 2026, after a short battle with cancer. He remembered his years at Bolles, his friends and teachers, with fondness. He served as County and Circuit Court Judge for Duval, Nassau and Clay counties from 1987 to 2019. He is survived by his wife, Janet of 46 years and their two children, Jack and Kelly, their spouses and three

1972

Class Representative: James “Jim” F. Bailey Jr. Jimbjax53@gmail.com

Dirk Nelson caught up with Richard Dostie on March 24 at the newly

Rahul Sharma ’03, Chip Skinner ’70, Jenifer Skinner, Scott Riley, Kelly Riley and Mike Crumpler. Not pictured: Jim Riley ’80.

Members of the Riley and Skinner families gathered to honor the legacy of late, Bolles great-grandparent Clayton Riley, a charter member of the Rotary Club of West Jacksonville and multi-year Paul Harris award winner. President Rahul Sharma ’03 facilitated a special club memorial addressing the member audience about Riley’s accomplishments and presented the family with a framed resolution. In attendance for the presentation were Rahul Sharma ’03, Chip Skinner, Jenifer Skinner, Scott Riley, Kelly Riley and Mike Crumpler (pictured above L to R). Not pictured: Jim Riley ’80.

Class Representative: Mary Allen Howe msah29926@gmail.com

1971
LEGACY
Jan Malcolm Jones IV ’26, son of Catherine LeMaistre Jones ’97 and J. Malcolm Jones III ’96 and grandson of J. Malcolm Jones Jr., graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.
Dirk Nelson ’72 and Richard Dostie ’72
1973
LEGACY
1973 Classmates at Bill Howey's Memorial Service

Several classmates attended the recent memorial service for Bill Howey, who passed away on April 1. Bill was the husband of Frances Ulmer Howey. Pictured Left to Right: Ned Jones, Maria L’Engle McMillan, Mary Allen Howe, Linda Waitz Bloom, Robert Lewinson, Frances Ulmer Howey, Randall Mann, Farley Grainger and Raymond Bateh.

1974

Class Representative: William “Gil” Gainer gain861@bellsouth.net

Class Representative: William “Bill” Joost Bill.joost@gmail.com

1975

Class Representative: John Crescimbeni jrcjaxfl@aol.com

Class Representative: Mark McGowan mark-mcgowan@comcast.net

Class Representative: J. David Sheppard sheppardpvbfl@bellsouth.net

Max Snyder passed away on December 28, 2025.

1976

Class Representative: Kevin T. Gay kgay@operationnewhope.com

Board of Trustees: Daniel “Dan” S. Dross, Secretary

Alumni Board: Jerry F. Hurst

The Alumni Office hosted several members of the Class of 1976 on the Upper School San Jose Campus as a part of their 50th Reunion celebration weekend. During their visit, the group of alums and their families were introduced to several members of the Bolles faculty/ staff as well as Jay Manohar ’26, a member of this year’s Static Discharge robotics team. The group joined their other ’76 classmates at the Deerwood Country Club to celebrate their 50th reunion. In the fall, the Bolles School community will also be celebrating Homecoming/Reunion Weekend for all alumni on October 9–10.

1977

Class Representative: Catherine Randle Hurst Catherine.hurst10@yahoo.com

Class Representative: Terry Iverson iversonandco@aol.com

Class Representative: Leslie Brooks Suskin office@suskinrealty.com

John Monsky returned to Carnegie Hall April 7-8, 2026, with his acclaimed production “We Chose to Go to the Moon,” an immersive performance that chronicles America’s space race through music, narration and archival storytelling. See sidebar on page 60.

1978

Class Representative: Jeffrey “Jeff” L. Evans relogatorjax@aol.com

Melissa Crouch Evans-Knight passed away on February 8, 2026, following a long illness.

1979

Class Representative: Karen Ibach Bowden Kbowden61@comcast.net

Board of Visitors: Scott Rinehart

1980

Class Representative: Jennifer Akins Hanigan jenhanigan@outlook.com

Board of Trustees: William “Bill” Erwin

Board of Visitors: Wendy Leitman Coleman

Class of 1976 Reunion
Class of 1976 Campus Visit

Greg Rogowski ’13, Tyler Hodges, Matthew Wotiz, Ashley Wotiz ’96 and Carol Nimitz at "We Chose to Go to the Moon"

Monsky ’77

Showcases Space Race

Storytelling at Carnegie Hall

Bolles alumnus John Monsky ’77 returned to Carnegie Hall April 7-8, 2026, with his acclaimed production “We Chose to Go to the Moon,” an immersive performance that chronicles America’s space race through music, narration and archival storytelling.

Narrated by Monsky and directed by Tony Award winner Michael Mayer, the program highlights both the euphoria and heartbreak of the era. Known for his signature mix of soaring music, archival film and photography, historic flags and personal stories, Monsky guides audiences through one of America’s greatest accomplishments. His storytelling spans the experiences of astronauts and their families—including Neil and then-wife Janet Armstrong—as well as the unsung heroes of Mission Control.

Under the direction of conductor Ian Weinberger, the Orchestra of St. Luke’s and top Broadway vocalists performed music from the period, from popular and patriotic to protest songs, including “Fly Me to the Moon,” “Space Oddity,” “Rocket to the Moon” and “My Generation.”

The performance transported audiences from quaking launch pads to tension-filled living rooms, culminating in the Apollo 11 landing on July 20, 1969, fulfilling President John F. Kennedy’s challenge.

Monsky, his brother Robert Monsky ’81 and American History Unbound hosted Bolles President and Head of School Tyler Hodges and Chief Advancement Officer Carol Nimitz for the Carnegie Hall performance along with Greg Rogowski ’13, Ashley Wotiz ’96, Bolles Trustee Matthew Wotiz and past parent Chris Lanning (not pictured). Matt and Ashley Wotiz also hosted the group for dinner before the performance.

LEGACY

John Edward Burnett ’26, son of G. Michael Burnett Sr., graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Mark Travis’ firm, Intrepid Capital Management, has received two prestigious 2026 LSEG Lipper Fund Awards. Its Intrepid Income Fund was recognized as the Best Short High Yield Fund over both five- and ten-year periods. Presented annually, the Lipper Fund Awards honor funds and management firms for consistently strong risk-adjusted performance. LSEG, headquartered in London, United Kingdom, is a leading global financial markets infrastructure and data provider that operates connected businesses to serve customers across the entire financial markets value chair.

Jacksonville’s film community is celebrating a milestone as industry leader Todd Roobin marks 40 years with the City of Jacksonville Film and Television Office. In April, Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan recognized Roobin’s service, leadership and long-standing dedication that has shaped the city’s growing film industry. See sidebar on the right.

1981

Class Representative: Ricardo “Rick” Morales III rick@moralesgroup.com

Matt Parker, Hunter Hayes, Mark Travis ’80 and Joe Van Cavage

1982

Class Representative: Virginia “Ginny” Jones Charest

Mike Priede ’82, Johnny Casteneda ’82, Johnny Bishop ’82, Scott Olson ’82 and Scott Adeeb ’82

Friends from the Class of 1982 gathered for a golf outing in Waynesville, North Carolina, in May. (Pictured above).

The Air Force Museum Foundation, Inc., announced that its Board of Trustees appointed Seth R. Baron as Chief Executive Officer, effective June 8, 2026. The Foundation is the nonprofit organization that raises funds and awareness in support of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force™.

1983

Class Representative: Robin Baxter rbaxter1107@comcast.net

Class Representative: Erin O’Dell O’Brien Erinobrien8387@hotmail.com

Class Representative: R. Dean Scott dscott@rdeanscott.com

Lian Dyer ’26, daughter of Gregory Coleman Dyer, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Industry

Jacksonville’s film community is celebrating a milestone as industry leader Todd Roobin ’80 marks 40 years with the City of Jacksonville Film and Television Office.

In April, Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan recognized Roobin’s service, leadership and long-standing dedication that has shaped the city’s growing film industry.

Known for his behind-the-scenes impact since 1986, Roobin has played a key role in bringing major productions and creative opportunities to Northeast Florida.

During his tenure, he has helped attract a wide range of film and television projects to Jacksonville, including “Basic,” “G.I. Jane,” “Recount” and “Cobra Kai.” His efforts have also supported numerous independent films, television productions and commercial projects.

Beyond recruiting high-profile productions, Roobin has remained committed to elevating local storytellers. He continues to champion Jacksonville-based filmmakers while showcasing the area’s diverse landscapes and production resources.

Seth R. Baron ’82

LEGACY

Cooper Ellis Matson ’26, son of Stephen George Matson, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

LEGACY

JD Matson ’24, Stephen Matson ’87, John Surface ’90 and Spencer Surface ’23

Stephen Matson and his son JD Matson ’24 joined Bolles Board of Trustees Vice-Chair John Surface ’90 and his son Spencer Surface ’23 after the Washington & Lee Generals won the ODAC lacrosse championship and advanced to open the NCAA tournament.

1988

Class Representative: Karen Rinaman Barakat karenbarakat@comcast.net

Class Representative: W. Scott Hudmon shudmon@me.com

LEGACY

Olivia Diehr Stromberg ’26, daughter of Samuel Denholm Stromberg, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

1989

Class Representative: M. Laurie Shumer Gelman lsgelman@comcast.net

Class Representative: K. “Megan” Mickler Ira megira@me.com

William James Barakat ’26, son of Karen Rinaman Barakat, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

LEGACY

Jayan Rahul Deshmukh ’26, son of Rahul Vinod Deshmukh, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

’90s

1990

Class Representative: Cynthia Anderson Cythia.anderson3@gmail.com

Class Representative: David A. Barton davidabarton@yahoo.com

Class Representative: Amy Hightower Beaver azbeaver@bellsouth.net

Class Representative: Mary Elizabeth “Bet” Lande Givens betgivens@yahoo.com

Board of Trustees: Michael B. Hodge, John S. Surface, Vice-Chair

Stephen Matson ’87 and his son JD Matson ’24 joined Bolles Board of Trustees Vice-Chair John Surface and his son Spencer Surface ’23 after the Washington & Lee Generals won the ODAC lacrosse championship and advanced to open the NCAA

*From a 1951 postcard sent by a Bolles cadet

LEGACY

Colin Daniel Flanigan ’26, son of Hilah Autrey Flanigan, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

LEGACY

Neal Aalok Kuthiala ’26, son of Aalok Kuthiala M.D., graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Jonas Seeberg is the founder and president of Real Life Prosthetics, a company that creates highly customized prosthetic and orthotic solutions that help individuals facing limb loss regain independence and confidence. Under his leadership, Real Life Prosthetics received the 2024 Harford Award for Service from the Harford County Chamber of Commerce and recently celebrated 25 years of service.

1991

Class Representative: Norianne Wright norianne@msn.com

LEGACY

Patton Avera ’26, son of Erin Summerlin Avera, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

1992

Board of Visitors: Catalina Vergara

LEGACY

LEGACY

Past Coach Don Suriano and Danny Wheeler ’92

Danny Wheeler visited the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus this spring to tour the Chipper Jones Baseball Stadium and catch up with Bulldog Hall of Fame Coach Don Suriano. At Bolles, Danny was a standout student-athlete who was a member of Coach Corky Rogers’ first state championship football team as well as Coach Suriano’s baseball squad that won the title in 1991. After Bolles, Danny earned his economics degree at the University of Florida where he was also an All-American on the Gators baseball team. Danny resides in South Jordan, Utah with his family and is the Director of Worldwide Credit for Adobe Systems, Inc.

Ezekiel Forrest Ansley ’26, son of Reginald F. Ansley Jr., graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.
Manning Greer Boree ’26, son of Gregory Gnann Boree, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.
*From a 1951 postcard sent by a Bolles cadet

Bolles Alumni Make Strong Impact on IRONMAN Jacksonville

Jacksonville hosted the city’s first-ever IRONMAN triathlon on May 16, 2026, with three Bolles alumni involved in the event which included a 2.4-mile swim in the St. Johns River, a 112-mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run through Downtown Jacksonville with the bike course coincidentally taking competitors past both the Bolles San Jose and Ponte Vedra Beach Campuses.

Leading the way among Bolles alumni was Richard Sollee ’19 in his full IRONMAN debut. Sollee qualified for and competed in the 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships in Marbella, Spain, last November. He began his IRONMAN journey immediately following his collegiate rowing career at MIT. After a successful effort at the half IRONMAN, Sollee impressed at the full distance as well, placing 34th overall and fifth in his division at the Jacksonville event.

Jenn Kattman Stanton ’03 competed in her fifth full distance IRONMAN in Jacksonville as a member of the Charlotte-based Fillnow Coaching group. Stanton’s first competitive triathlon began at Mickler’s Landing in the Ponte Vedra area just prior to her graduating from Bolles. She has also led group and private run training groups before joining the Fillnow Coaching staff in 2017. Stanton managed the tough Florida conditions well in the Jacksonville IRONMAN and walked away with a sixth place age group finish, just three minutes behind a podium spot, which is her highest finish in a 140.6 IRONMAN field.

Skye Bobbitt Johnson ’94 supported 33 athletes who train with her North Florida-based Tri with Skye team. Johnson has been coaching triathlon athletes since 2011, with much of the swim training taking place on the San Jose Campus. As an athlete, Johnson has completed five full IRONMAN events and most recently finished ANVIL, an extraordinary endurance challenge consisting of a 4.8-mile swim, 224-mile bike and 52.4-mile run, where she placed fifth overall. The number of participants from her group in the inaugural IRONMAN Jacksonville reflects the strong presence Johnson has built in the local endurance community.

“With the three-loop run course, I was able to see Skye three times and receive the boost I needed,” shared Stanton. “It was that exact surge of energy that helped me lock in, stay patient and finish strong.”

Skye Bobbitt Johnson ’94 and team
Richard Sollee ’19
Jenn Kattman Stanton ’03

LEGACY

Audrey R. Cummings ’26, daughter of Spencer Neal Cummings, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Michael Frederick Shad ’26, son of Lori Rebman Shad and Jack Lee Shad ’93 and grandson of Jennie Shad ’65 Bartram and Harold W. Shad III ’64, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026. See image on page 54.

1993

Class Representative: Matthew “Matt” T. Berquist mberquist@intrepidcapital.net

have always been there for each other. Lee Kaplan is currently living in Utrecht and participated in the celebration via Zoom call.

Bolles Photography, Global Entrepreneurship and Journalism students gathered on April 14 to hear from five-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and filmmaker Pascale Head. See sidebar on page 62.

LEGACY

Wyatt Dangerfield Pietschker ’26, son of Jennifer Meghan Kelly Pietschker and Erik Brant Pietschker, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Robert Dahl ’93, Lewis King ’93, Ray O’Steen ’93, Lee Kaplan ’93 (via Zoom), David Lampp ’93 and Brian Davis ’93

On November 2, 2025, six best Bolles buddies celebrated their 50th birthdays together in Jacksonville. The guys—Robert Dahl, Lewis King, Ray O’Steen, Lee Kaplan, David Lampp and Brian Davis—all met at Bolles in the seventh grade and have been best friends ever since. They have spent many happy and sad occasions together and

LEGACY

Nikhil Akavaram Reddy ’26, son of Vimal A. Reddy, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Michael Frederick Shad ’26, son of Lori Rebman Shad ’92 and Jack Lee Shad and grandson of Jennie Shad ’65 Bartram and Harold W. Shad III ’64, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026. See image on page 54.

Supapipat ’96 Named Thailand’s Ninth Iron Chef

Bolles alumnus Suphamongkhon Supapipat ’96, known as “Chef Art,” has been officially introduced as Thailand’s ninth Iron Chef, joining the elite roster of chefs at the center of the popular culinary competition Iron Chef Thailand.

Before launching his culinary career, Supapipat was a standout Bolles swimmer, a path that led him to compete on the Thai national swimming team during his youth. The discipline he developed in the pool later carried into the kitchen, where he has built a distinguished reputation as a chef and restaurateur. Today, he leads the acclaimed Chef’s Table by Chef Art, a highly regarded private dining experience in Bangkok known for its refined, European-influenced cuisine.

After years serving as a judge on Iron Chef Thailand, Supapipat stepped confidently into his new role as an Iron Chef — where challengers now compete directly against him. His debut battle,

The Bolles community proudly celebrates Supapipat’s achievement and his continued impact on the global culinary stage.

1993 (cont.)

Emily Kate Stevenson ’26, daughter of Jessica Nauman Stevenson, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

1994

Class Representative: Carolyn Cantrell Snowden carolyn_snowden@yahoo.com

Class Representative: Jason M. Winkler jwinkler@gmail.com

LEGACY

Louis G. Joos ’26, son of Louis Martin Ballestero Joos, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Jacksonville hosted the city’s first-ever IRONMAN triathlon on May 16, 2026, with three Bolles alumni involved in the event: Skye Bobbitt Johnson, Jenn Kattman Stanton ’03 and Richard Sollee ’19. See sidebar on page 66.

facing Chef Phillip Taylor, marked his official arrival in Kitchen Stadium.
LEGACY

1995

Class Representative: Leed Silverfield lsilverfield@yahoo.com

Class Representative: Bill Klima williamhklima@gmail.com

Alumni Board: Travis Von Tobel

Board of Visitors: Michael “Mike” S. Minutelli

LEGACY

Joaquim Paulo Balesdent Gasparian ’26, son of Maria Isabel Balesdent Comparato, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

LEGACY

Charlotte Frances Joseph ’26, daughter of Jamie Garcia Joseph ’96 and Eric Michael Joseph, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Stam ’00 Named State Coach of the Year by National Organization

Steven Stam was named 2025 High School Boys Cross Country State Coach of the Year by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association. Stam guided the boys’ cross country team to its ninth state title in program history.

State-by-state winners were selected based on their teams’ performances throughout the 2025 cross country season. Among the factors taken into consideration were team score and placement at the state championships, margin of victory, performance against rankings if available, individual championships, and how their teams’ performances stacked up to previous years.

Stam was also named Class 2A Boys’ Cross Country Coach of the Year in the 2025–26 Florida Dairy Farmers High School Sports Awards for the fall season.

Shane Liesegang ’00 getting ready to start the Palm Sunday procession in Payatas, Quezon City, Philippines

Liesegang ’00 Ordained as Jesuit Priest

Bolles alumnus Shane Liesegang ’00, a member of Jesuits West (the California Province of the Society of Jesus), was ordained by the Most Reverend Rey Bersabel, Bishop of Sacramento, on June 13 at St. Ignatius Loyola Parish.

Liesegang studied cognitive science and theater at the University of Virginia and received a master’s degree from Carnegie Mellon University’s Entertainment Technology Center. He worked designing theme parks and making video games for over a decade, before being drawn to the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits).

After entering the Jesuits, Liesegang was sent to work in youth prisons, hospitals, halfway houses and schools. He renovated houses in Native Alaskan villages and assisted with refugee health care in South Africa. He earned two more degrees in philosophy and international political economy at Fordham University in New York before moving to the Middle East at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Liesegang lived in Lebanon during its collapse, working for the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) there and across the region in Iraq, Jordan and Syria. He has spent the last several years studying theology at the Boston College Clough School of Theology and Ministry, taking one year in the Philippines to specifically learn migration theology and pastoral care of migrants. He was ordained a deacon in Manila and very happily began sacramental ministries in the chapels of Payatas, baptizing over 200 individuals in that time.

After ordination, he will spend the summer providing pastoral ministry at St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Portland, Oregon, before moving to Bangkok, Thailand, to become the regional reconciliation officer for JRS in the Asia Pacific region.

Emily Pelzer Loftin ’26, daughter of Michael Kells Loftin, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Scott Schweitzer ’95 and Ryan Silverfield ’99

Scott Schweitzer traveled to Fayetteville, Arkansas, this spring where he had an opportunity to visit with Ryan Silverfield ’99, the new Head Football Coach for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks. Scott played football at Bolles with classmate Leed Silverfield, Ryan’s older brother.

1996

Class Representative: Fontaine LeMaistre IV fontainelemaistre@comcast.net

Board of Trustees: Brad Arrowsmith, Michael Morales

Board of Visitors: Talmadge “Tal” Coley, Vice-Chair

LEGACY

Andrew Kelly Day ’26, son of Taylor Smith Day, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

LEGACY

Jones ’03 Headlines Black History Month Celebrations at Bolles

Bolles alumna Carla Jones ’03 was one of the top highlights of a series of Black History Month celebrations on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus this February. A journalist, writer, executive and a passionate advocate for Jacksonville’s rich Black history, Jones is the CEO of Carla Mechele Media, LLC.

Lawson Alexander Holt ’26, son of Jennifer Ashley Garcia Holt, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

Madison Joan Wotiz ’26, daughter of Ashley Stein Wotiz and granddaughter of Martin E. Stein Jr. ’70, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026. See image on page 57.

Jan Malcolm Jones IV ’26, son of Catherine LeMaistre Jones ’97 and J. Malcolm Jones III and grandson of J. Malcolm Jones Jr. ’71, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026. See image on page 58.

She shared her experience with the entire upper school student body during two convocations held February 23 and 24 and also joined the Bolles Black Student Union for lunch. The BSU organized her visit in partnership with Bolles upper school MLT Campus Lead Carrie Ezzell. The lunch provided a meaningful opportunity for BSU members to connect with Jones on a more personal level and to share their own stories together in the Varn Board Room.

Warfield ’04 Named Among 2026 40 Gators Under 40

1996 (cont.)

LEGACY

Bolles alumnus Sam Warfield ’04 has been selected among the University of Florida Alumni Association’s 2026 40 Gators Under 40. The honor recognizes UF alumni who have not only achieved remarkable professional success but also demonstrated an unwavering commitment to service and a deep connection to their alma mater.

Warfield is an emerging leader and investor in the global infrastructure private equity space. He currently serves as managing director, head of infrastructure at Pennybacker. In 2022, Warfield joined Pennybacker to start a new infrastructure investment platform and to help the firm become a leading real assets middle-market sponsor. Warfield identified an opportunity in the market to build a differentiated, infrastructure investment platform that could leverage both a real assets platform and a dedicated data and technology team. Warfield has successfully built out a team of eight infrastructure investment professionals, raised over $700 million from global institutional investors and has made three control equity investments, where he is the chairman of each board.

Prior to Pennybacker, Warfield was managing director, head of the United States investments at Arroyo Investors — a leading middle market private equity firm focused on power and energy infrastructure assets. His leadership over seven years was pivotal in helping Arroyo scale. Prior to Arroyo, Warfield was a senior corporate associate at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP in New York City, where his practice focused on mergers and acquisitions in the power and infrastructure sector.

Warfield received his bachelor’s degree in finance, graduating magna cum laude, as well as his Juris Doctor, graduating magna cum laude, from the University of Florida. He is a member of the UF Hall of Fame.

Sarah Lane Morales ’26, daughter of Lauren Haynes Morales and Michael Christopher Morales, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.
John Newman ’86, Julia Kalinski and Tal Coley ’96

On their way down to Miami on January 22, Bolles Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving Julia Kalinski and Stewardship and Alumni Officer John Newman ’86 stopped to visit current Bolles parent and Bolles Board of Visitors Vice-Chair Tal Coley. Coley, who is the CEO of the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA), hosted the pair at the Tropical Plant International Expo in the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale.

Charlotte Frances Joseph ’26, daughter of Jamie Garcia Joseph and Eric Michael Joseph ’95, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026. See image on page 69.

Suphamongkhon Supapipat, known as “Chef Art,” has been officially introduced as Thailand’s ninth Iron Chef, joining the elite roster of chefs at the center of the popular culinary competition Iron Chef Thailand. See sidebar on page 68.

1997

Alumni Board: Steve Kurosko

Jan Malcolm Jones IV ’26, son of Catherine LeMaistre Jones and J. Malcolm Jones III ’96 and grandson of J. Malcolm Jones Jr. ’71, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026. See image on page 58.

George Constantine Dovellos ’26, son of Constantine John Dovellos, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

1998

Class Representative: Lindsay Skinner Eyrick lindsayeyrick@yahoo.com

Board of Trustees: Lindsay Skinner Eyrick

Alumni Board: Shreena Patel

Board of Visitors: William “Bill” Thompson, Ashley Tejada

Jack M. Jones V ’26, son of Erin Abercrombie Jones, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

LEGACY

Bailey Shilling ’26, son of Lindsay Wertz Shilling, graduated from The Bolles School on May 23, 2026.

1999

Class Representative: Christopher “Chris” Dostie ccdostie@hotmail.com

Board of Visitors: Ryan B. Ong

’00s

2000

Class Representative: Faye Goodman Hedrick fayemhedrick@gmail.com

Alumni Board: Justin Hart, Immediate Past Chair

Shane Liesegang, a member of Jesuits West, was ordained by the Most Reverend Rey Bersabel, Bishop of Sacramento, on June 13 at St. Ignatius Loyola Parish in Sacramento, California. See sidebar on page 70.

LEGACY
LEGACY

2000 (cont.)

Steven Stam was named 2025 High School Boys Cross Country State Coach of the Year by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association and Class 2A Boys’ Cross Country Coach of the Year in the 2025–26 Florida Dairy Farmers High School Sports Awards for the fall season. Stam guided the boys’ cross country team to its ninth state title in program history. See sidebar on page 69.

2001

Class Representative: Katie Skinner Farrar katie.s.farrar@gmail.com

Class Representative: William O. Inman IV woinman4@gmail.com

Class Representative: Lloyd Regas lloydregas@gmail.com

Board of Visitors: Glen Elliott

2002

Class Representative: Elizabeth Brotman Daniel eabrotman@yahoo.com

Class Representative: Margaret “Meg” Cheney Coleman Meg.e.cheney@gmail.com

Class Representative: John M. Marees II John.michael.marees@gmail.com

Alumni Board: Carson Vandergriff Richardson

2003

Alumni Board: David Dunn, John Langley

Carla Jones was one of the top highlights of a series of Black History Month celebrations on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus this February. A journalist, writer, executive and a passionate advocate for Jacksonville’s rich Black history, Jones is the CEO of Carla Mechele Media, LLC. See sidebar on page 71.

Jacksonville hosted the city’s first-ever IRONMAN triathlon on May 16, 2026, with three Bolles alumni involved in the event: Skye Bobbitt Johnson ’94, Jenn Kattman Stanton and Richard Sollee ’19. See sidebar on page 66.

Members of the Riley and Skinner families gathered to honor the legacy of late, Bolles great-grandparent Clayton Riley, a charter member of the Rotary Club of West Jacksonville and multi-year Paul Harris award winner. President Rahul Sharma facilitated a special club memorial addressing the member audience about Riley’s accomplishments and presented the family with a framed resolution. In attendance for the presentation were Rahul Sharma, Chip Skinner ’70, Jenifer Skinner, Scott Riley, Kelly Riley and Mike Crumpler (pictured L to R). Not pictured: Jim Riley ’80. See picture on page 58.

Lee Anderson Louy visited the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus on January 20 to speak with Dr. Brett Moyer’s science students about the conservation work of the North Florida Land Trust. Louy, the organization’s Director of Philanthropic Services, was joined by her colleague, Strategic Initiatives Manager Heather Nagy. Together, they explained the North Florida Land Trust’s mission and outlined how the team determines which properties

Christopher Cree Grant and Lauren Yalango-Grant ’02

Lauren Yalango-Grant earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Choreography for the Broadway musical “The Lost Boys,” alongside her husband Christopher Cree Grant. The accomplished choreographers brought the production’s aerial movement to life, using carefully designed harnesses to make actors appear to fly in the stage adaptation of the 1987 vampire film.

Watch their interview on Reels.

2004

Lee Anderson Louy ’03, Heather Nagy and Dr. Brett Moyer

Class Representative: Harry A. Kenning III Hkenn1009@gmail.com

Board of Visitors: John D. Bacon

Jordan Bolch and his wife, Jessica, welcomed their baby daughter, Jillette Suite Bolch, on February 5, 2026.

Sam Warfield has been selected among the University of Florida Alumni Association’s 2026 40 Gators Under 40. Warfield is an emerging leader and investor in the global infrastructure private

Photo: “The Lost Boys” Instagram @lostboysmusical

equity space. He currently serves as managing director, head of infrastructure at Pennybacker. See sidebar on page 72.

2005

Class Representative: Catherine “Gracie” Williams Register c.gracie.williams@gmail.com

Alumni Board: Tim Miller, Vice-Chair

Board of Visitors: Amy Akel

New York City-based professional artist Whitney Oldenburg stopped by the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus March 6 to speak with art students in the Class of 1946 Alumni Conference Room. During her visit, students gained insight into Oldenburg’s artistic journey, creative process and what it takes to build a career as a working artist. Her first major solo museum exhibition, titled “Left Behind,” was recently on view at MOCA Jacksonville. Oldenburg’s visit was part of the new Malcolm Jones Jr. Mentorship Program. Learn more on page 50.

Ropp ’12 Premieres Feature Directorial Debut at SXSW

First Coast News featured Bolles Lower School Whitehurst Campus Pre-K teacher JoAnna Zvara as the station’s Teacher of the Week on February 12. She shared stories from the classroom and reflected on the joy she gets from teaching Bolles’ youngest students. Pre-K teacher Karen Stephens was also selected as the station’s Teacher of the Week in a feature that aired February 26.

2006

Class Representative: Ashley K. Rawlins akrawlins@gmail.com

Jeff Mitchell ’06 Danielle Bahri ’06 and Georges Bahri ’06

Classmates Jeff Mitchell, Danielle Bahri and Georges Bahri enjoyed catching up at the annual Atlanta Alumni event in April.

Bolles alumnus Will Ropp ’12 earned a major milestone with the acceptance of his feature film “Brian” into the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival (SXSW). This is Ropp’s feature directorial debut, which was screened in the Narrative Feature Competition at the festival, held in Austin March 12–18.

“Brian” is a coming-of-age comedy written by “Late Night with Seth Meyers” writer Mike Scollins, marking his feature screenwriting debut. The film follows a teenager, played by Ben Wang, who runs for class president in an effort to impress a teacher he admires. The cast also includes William H. Macy, Natalie Morales and Randall Park.

“Directing this project was intensely personal, as I saw so much of my own struggles with anxiety and self-discovery reflected in the story,” Ropp said in a statement featured in Variety in May 2025. “Through Brian’s journey, I wanted to capture the subtle, often messy process of growing up and finding one’s voice in a world that can feel overwhelming; this film is not just about a boy coming of age, but about the courage it takes to embrace who you are.”

Ropp also shared that while “Brian” is not about Bolles, it was impossible to avoid pulling from his own high school experience when directing the comedy.

A dedicated supporter of Bolles Arts, Ropp has built a rising career in film and television. He earned his breakout role as Kenny Dawes in the 2020 Warner Bros. film “The Way Back.” He went on to appear in “Silk Road” and the critically praised drama “The Fallout” in 2021. Ropp’s additional credits include “The Greatest Beer Run Ever” in 2022 and the 2023 releases “Sitting in Bars with Cake” and “The Line.” His television work includes roles in “Love, Victor,” “Dave” and “Fatal Attraction.”

Alongside acting, Ropp has expanded his creative work behind the camera. He wrote and directed the 2024 short film “Kodar: The Primordial God of Light and Ether” and has produced multiple projects, including “Brian.” Ropp earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Michigan before launching his career in Los Angeles.

Jordan Wilkerson, JoAnna Zvara ’05, Karen Stephens and students

Bolt ’13 Returns to Bolles as Middle School P.E. Teacher and Varsity Boys’ Soccer Assistant Coach

Bolles will welcome back a familiar face next year as alumnus Jay Bolt ’13 returns to his alma mater to join the middle school P.E. staff and assist with the varsity boys’ soccer team.

Bolt will fill the P.E. role for the retiring Mike Akabekjan, whom Bolt played for on the middle school soccer squad. He will again work alongside his high school soccer coach Jim Lieb on the upper school sidelines.

Bolt rejoins the Bolles staff after guiding the Episcopal girls’ and boys’ teams to unprecedented success. He led the girls’ team to the first state final in program history in 2025 and did the same with the boys’ team in 2026. Bolt’s prior coaching experience was at Bolles as the JV coach and assisting with the varsity team from 2013–19.

As a player, Bolt earned numerous accolades at the professional, collegiate and high school levels. He was named Newcomer of the Year by the Charleston Battery of the United Soccer League in 2018 and played at the professional level for three seasons.

Bolt played college soccer at the University of North Florida from 2013–16 for fellow Bolles alum Derek Marinatos ’94. His stellar UNF career resulted in Bolt being selected for the school’s Hall of Fame in 2025. He helped UNF to the 2015 Atlantic Sun Tournament Championship title and 2016 Atlantic Sun Regular Season crown. He was named ASUN defensive player of the year in 2015 and 2016, All-Conference four times and NSCAA Southeast All-Region three times. Bolt totaled five Atlantic Sun Defensive Player of the Week honors and three Atlantic Sun All-Tournament honors.

Bolt earned numerous accolades at Bolles as well. As a senior, he was named the Florida Dairy Farmers State Player of the Year, All-State, All-District, to the Times-Union All First Coast First Team, the Times-Union Player of the Year and was named All-American by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jay Bolt back home to Bolles,” said Athletic Director Rock Pillsbury. “His success as both a player and coach will be an asset to the program, and we are proud he will be donning blue and orange again!”

2006 (cont.)

Alex Hepler visited the San Jose Campus this spring to tour the facilities and learn more about the Bolles Alumni Association. While a student at Bolles, Alex was a member of Coach Corky Rogers’ 2002 and 2004 State Championship Football Teams and also participated in Mrs. Laura Rippel’s play production his senior year. After graduation, Alex earned a finance degree from the University of Georgia and a construction management degree from the University of North Florida. Alex is the Director of Construction at Vestcor Companies — a real estate development company in the San Marco area. He is also a proud Bolles parent and his family enjoys living in Jacksonville Beach.

2007

Class Representative: Michelle Risley Baker michelle.e.risley@gmail.com

Class Representative: Allison Dewan Giebink allisondewan@gmail.com

Board of Visitors: Alex King

Aarian Afshari stopped by Bolles to tour the San Jose Campus, pick up some Bulldog gear and visit the Alumni Office. Aarian was a “Lifer” at Bolles who entered as a Pre-K student on the Whitehurst Campus, and is a proud member of the Alumni Association. As an upper school student, Aarian served as the president of the Dreams Come True Club, as well as competed in football, lacrosse and track & field for the Bulldogs. After his Bolles graduation, Aarian earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia and his M.D. from the Florida State University School of Medicine. After completing his residency at the Emory University School of Medicine, Aarian returned to Jacksonville, where he worked in

Bolles 2016 State Champion Baseball Team Celebrated at Alumni Night

Bolles alums, friends and families gathered April 8 for Baseball Alumni Night at Donovan Field to watch the Bulldogs take on the North Oconee Titans from Georgia.

During a special pregame ceremony, the School recognized the 2016 Bolles baseball team with teammates Hamp Skinner ’16 and Austin Henson ’16 combining to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

The 2016 squad is celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the program’s seventh baseball state championship. In that title game, Coach Mike Boswell’s Bulldogs edged the Miami Pace Spartans 1-0 in extra innings and finished as the number 1 ranked team in the state of Florida regardless of classification.

In Wednesday night’s contest, the 2026 ‘Dogs notched a 10-7 win over the Titans as a part of the Baker’s Florida-Georgia Showdown. Go Bulldogs!

2012

Class Representative: Victoria “Tori” Reiman v.reiman12@gmail.com

Board of Visitors: Katherine Prusiecki Davis, Rachel Rice Malvasi

Hayden Hurst and his wife, Brooke, have announced the arrival of their son, Nolan Hurst.

Lane Travis Kane and her husband, Walker Kane, have announced the birth of their daughter, McNealy Hollan Kane, on March 11, 2026.

Gabby Mallette married Chris Boyd on February 2, 2026.

Charlie Burnett and his brother, Mike Burnett ’09, co-founders of Excellere IT Services, stand today as a testament to what can happen when ambition, hard work and a passion for innovation come together. Founded with a vision to deliver reliable, secure and forward-thinking IT solutions, Excellere has rapidly evolved into a trusted partner for organizations across the United States. The company specializes in IT services, cloud architecture, cybersecurity and infrastructure management, helping businesses modernize their operations while staying protected in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

Will Ropp earned a major milestone with the acceptance of his feature film “Brian” into the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival (SXSW). This is Ropp’s feature directorial debut, which was screened in the Narrative Feature Competition at the festival, held in Austin March 12–18. See sidebar on page 75.

2013

Class Representative: Shaye L. Newman slnewms@gmail.com

Class Representative: Virginia Skinner Virginiak.skinner@gmail.com

Board of Visitors: Greg Rogowski

Tim Betros and his wife, Ashlyn Knight Betros ’15, have welcomed a baby girl to their family! Addison Ann Betros was born on April 30, 2026.

Elizabeth Surratt Woods ’13

Elizabeth Surratt Woods visited the San Jose Campus this spring to speak with the Bolles Psychology students during Activities period. Elzabeth was also the Alumni guest speaker at this year’s Upper School Academic Banquet. At Bolles, Elizabeth was a “Lifer” who started in Kindergarten and graduated as Valedictorian. She fondly remembers her days as a Bulldog, especially serving as captain for Coach Elise Bush’s Bolles Volleyball team. Following her Bolles graduation, Elizabeth earned degrees from the University of Virginia and Vanderbilt University. She currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee, where she is a clinical advisor for the Integrative Life Center that focuses on providing care to clients struggling with trauma, addiction, and eating disorders.

Bolles will welcome back a familiar face next year as alumnus Jay Bolt returns to his alma mater to join the middle school P.E. staff and assist with the varsity boys’ soccer team. Bolt will fill the P.E. role for the retiring Mike Akabekjan, whom Bolt played for on the middle school soccer squad. He will again work alongside his high school soccer coach Jim Lieb on the upper school sidelines. See sidebar on page 76.

Sarah Jane Jones Collins ’14, James Collins and Scarlett Jane Collins

Sarah Jane Jones Collins and her husband, James, have announced the birth of their daughter, Scarlett Jane Collins.

2015

Board of Visitors: Christian Bermudez, Lindsay Speckman

Ashlyn Knight Betros and her husband, Tim Betros ’13, have welcomed a baby girl to their family! Addison Ann Betros was born on April 30, 2026.

Jake Gibbons was named Class 1A Swimming and Diving Coach of the Year in the 2025–26 Florida Dairy Farmers High School Sports Awards for the fall season. Gibbons helped Bolles continue its impressive streak of state championships in girls’ and boys’ swimming and diving, adding a national and state record, four school records and winning 16 events at the state meet.

2016

Class Representative: Rawan Farah Salem Rawanfarah16@gmail.com

Class Representative: Roland Johnson, Secretary Rleejohnson59@gmail.com

Alumni Board: Roland Johnson, Secretary

Annie Smith and Tyrus Smith ’16

Brittney Rayfield Scantling and her husband, Hunter, have announced the birth of their son, Rhys Hunter Scantling.

Bolles alums, friends and families gathered April 8 for Baseball Alumni Night at Donovan Field to watch the Bulldogs take on the North Oconee Titans from Georgia. During a special pregame ceremony, the School recognized the 2016 Bolles baseball team with teammates Hamp Skinner and Austin Henson combining to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. See sidebar on page 78.

Class of 2016, can you believe it's been 10 years

2017

Class Representative: Joseph “Joey” DeWane dewanejoseph@gmail.com

Class Representative: Elizabeth McKinney mckinneyelizaebethellen@gmail.com

E.J. Porter was recently promoted to Master Deputy with the Richland County Sheriff’s Office in South Carolina. He also went through a tough tryout and made the Special Response Team (SRT) and passed another tough course to get certified with a service rifle as the top shot in the class!

Charlie Thomas DeWane

Joey DeWane and his wife, Erin, have announced the birth of their son, Charlie Thomas DeWane.

On June 21, 2025, Lainey Harris and Josh Blount-Powell were married at the Epping Forest Yacht Club in Jacksonville.

Take a walk down memory lane.

Sydney Schmidt ’17

Sydney Schmidt, a judicial staff attorney for Florida’s Fourth Judicial Circuit, graduated from Jacksonville University College of Law in May 2025, earning the Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence. She now plays a key role in supporting the circuit’s judicial operations. Schmidt remains active in the Jacksonville legal community while balancing her professional responsibilities with a strong commitment to her hometown roots.

2018

Class Representative: Stefanie Mendizabal Stefaniemendizabal3@gmail.com

Board of Visitors: Cameron Perry Walker

Mason Yost and his wife, Rachel, have announced the birth of their daughter, Presley Jeann Yost.

2019

Class Representative: Rachel Johns rachel_johns@amda.edu

Matthew Patton has completed Professional Culinary studies at FCTC.

Richard Sollee was married to Ruby Gravrok on April 11, 2026. He also qualified for and competed at the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Marbella, Spain, on November 9, 2025. Learn more about his participation in the Jacksonville IRONMAN in the sidebar on page 66.

Charles Hicks placed seventh overall and was the second American to cross the finish line at the 2026 Boston Marathon on April 20. See sidebar below.

’20s

2021

Class Representative: Jack He jackhe2802@gmail.com

Hicks ’19 Places 7th in Boston Marathon

Bolles alumnus Charles Hicks ’19 placed seventh overall and was the second American to cross the finish line at the 2026 Boston Marathon on April 20. Racing just his second marathon, Hicks’ time of 2:04:35 is the second fastest ever by an American at the distance. He averaged 4:46 per mile.

Hicks matched his overall and American placing in his marathon debut at the 2025 New York City Marathon in November. He currently races professionally for Nike, training with the Bowerman Track Club in Eugene, Oregon. He has his sights on making the U.S. team for the 2028 Olympics.

Photo: @hicks_david

Six Alumni Named to Local All-FBS, All-FCS Teams

Bolles alumni Caden Fordham ’21 and Jack Pyburn ’22 were named to the Florida Times-Union’s 2025 All-Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) Team, recognizing the top players from area high schools now competing at college football’s highest level. Bolles also tied for the most players on local FBS rosters this past fall with 14.

Fordham, a linebacker for North Carolina State University, led the Wolfpack with 143 tackles (10 for loss), 3.5 sacks, two interceptions, three pass breakups, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. He was named to the All-Atlantic Coast Conference First Team. Pyburn, a defensive lineman for Louisiana State University, tallied 52 tackles, with 5.5 for loss, along with two sacks and a fumble recovery in 12 games.

Four additional Bolles alumni were recognized on the Florida Times-Union’s 2025 All-Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Team: Ethan Drumm ’25, Reed Collins ’22, Hayden Schwartz ’22 and Kemani Wilson ’23.

Jack Pyburn ’22
Ethan Drumm ’25
Reed Collins ’22

Drumm, a quarterback at Wofford College, played in two games, completing 19 of 42 passes for 287 yards and three touchdowns.

Collins, an offensive lineman at Lafayette College, played in 12 games as tackle and guard. Schwartz, a defensive lineman at the University of Montana, played in 14 games with 27 tackles (4.5 for loss), three sacks and an interception for the FCS semifinalists. Wilson, a defensive back at Drake University, made 41 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble and nine pass breakups in 12 games and was named second-team All-Pioneer Football League.

Caden Fordham ’21

All-America from the Associated Press and was named to the All-Atlantic Coast Conference First Team.

Caden Fordham and Jack Pyburn ’22 were named to the Florida Times-Union’s 2025 All-Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) Team, recognizing the top players from area high schools now competing at college football’s highest level. See sidebar on the left.

2021 (cont.)

Caden Fordham, a linebacker on the North Carolina State University football team, concluded the 2025 season with multiple honors. Following a season-ending knee injury in 2024, Fordham returned to the field in 2025 as a team captain and led the Wolfpack defense with 143 total tackles including 3.5 sacks along with two interceptions and a fumble recovery. He earned Second Team All-America honors from The Sporting News, Third Team

Jack He stopped by to visit the San Jose Campus during a recent trip to Jacksonville. During his visit, Jack joined Coach Steve Stam and the cross country team at an indoor track meet and attended track practice, running a workout with the team. While a student at Bolles, Jack was a member of the Student Council and very active in Bulldog athletics, participating in the Swimming, Cross Country, and Track & Field programs. After graduation, Jack earned a degree in Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior from the University of California — Davis, and he is currently pursuing an MBA from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Jack is also a proud member of the Bolles Alumni Association and enjoys serving as a Class Representative for the Class of 2021.

Javier Neret stopped by the San Jose Campus this winter to visit with a few of his teachers and meet with the Alumni Office. While a student at Bolles, Javier was a multi-sport, student-athlete as a member of the Bulldog soccer and lacrosse teams. Following graduation, Javier earned a business degree from Florida State University and returned to Jacksonville where he currently works as a mortgage lending advisor for JPMorganChase.

Kemani Wilson ’23
Caden Fordham ’21
Hayden Schwartz ’22
Photo: NC State Football

2022

Class Representative: Yasmeen Ibrahim yas.ibrhm23@gmail.com

Gary Groudsky is currently a mechanical engineering student at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, Indiana, where he is also a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity.

Jack Pyburn and Caden Fordham ’21 were named to the Florida Times-Union’s 2025 All-Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) Team, recognizing the top players from area high schools now competing at college football’s highest level. See sidebar on page 82.

Four Bolles alumni were recognized on the Florida Times-Union’s 2025 All-Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Team: Reed Collins, Hayden Schwartz, Ethan Drumm ’25 and Kemani Wilson ’23. See sidebar on page 82.

Annabella McClerren helped the Stetson University softball team to historic success in 2026. The senior outfielder started every game, compiling a .313 batting average, with 26 RBI, four home runs and 10 doubles along with a .991 fielding percentage. See sidebar on page 85.

2023

Class Representative: Jackson Brill jacksonebrill@gmail.com

Class Representative: Helen Commander helencommander@outlook.com

Class Representative: Jake Hogan jakehogan718@gmail.com

Brendan Black and J.J. Sparks ’26 visited the San Jose Campus this spring to see a few of their favorite teachers including Mrs. Erika Dale in the Deans’ Office. At Bolles, J.J. and Brendan were teammates on Coach Matt Toblin’s Bulldog football team and were both selected as all-state performers. J.J. just finished his freshman year at the University of Miami, where he is an offensive lineman for the Hurricanes, and Brendan is a senior offensive lineman at the University of Nebraska.

Amelia Dickson ’23 and Jeb Allen ’23

Amelia Dickson and Jeb Allen ran into each other in January on their way to spend the spring semester at Study Abroad programs in Italy. Jeb, a junior at Amherst College, studied at IES Abroad in Rome. Amelia, a junior at Appalachian State University, studied at the Lorenzo de’Medici Institute in Florence.

Gary Groudsky ’22
J.J. Sparks ’26, Erika Dale and Brendan Black ’23

McClerren ’22 Helps Stetson Softball to Historic Season

Bolles alumna Annabella McClerren ’22 helped the Stetson University softball team to historic success in 2026. The senior outfielder started every game, compiling a .313 batting average, with 26 RBI, four home runs and 10 doubles along with a .991 fielding percentage. She ranked second on her team in doubles and runs scored.

Stephen Matson ’87 and his son JD Matson ’24 joined Bolles Board of Trustees Vice-Chair John Surface ’90 and his son Spencer Surface after the Washington & Lee Generals won the lacrosse ODAC championship and advanced to open the NCAA tournament. See picture on page 63.

McClerren’s efforts helped Stetson set single-season team records in doubles, home runs, RBIs, runs scored, total bases, slugging percentage, on-base percentage and conference wins while posting the program’s highest win total since 2014. The Hatters also won the program’s first Atlantic Sun Conference title and NCAA tournament berth since 2014. McClerren hit a two-run single in Stetson’s upset win over ninth-ranked FSU in the opening round of the NCAA regionals.

Four Bolles alumni were recognized on the Florida Times-Union’s 2025 All-Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Team: Kemani Wilson, Reed Collins ’22, Hayden Schwartz ’22 and Ethan Drumm ’25. See sidebar on page 82.

2023 (cont.)

Classmates Meera Kuthiala, Townsend Mundin and Rileigh Brown met up in Dublin, Ireland, for St. Patrick’s Day while studying abroad!

Meera Kuthiala ’23, Townsend Mundin ’23 and Rileigh Brown ’23

2024

Daylin John-Hill, an attackman on the Jacksonville University men’s lacrosse team, helped the Dolphins to historic success in the 2026 season. JU won the program’s first-ever NCAA postseason game and conference title this season. See sidebar on the right.

Stephen Matson ’87 and his son JD Matson joined Bolles Board of Trustees Vice-Chair John Surface ’90 and his son Spencer Surface ’23 after the Washington & Lee Generals won the ODAC lacrosse championship and advanced to open the NCAA tournament. See picture on page 63.

*From a 1951 postcard sent by a Bolles cadet

*From a 1951 postcard sent by a Bolles cadet

2025

Amir Chahlavi is enjoying his freshman year at Boston College, where he is majoring in Neuroscience and minoring in Finance.

Four Bolles alumni were recognized on the Florida Times-Union’s 2025 All-Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Team: Ethan Drumm, Reed Collins ’22, Hayden Schwartz ’22 and Kemani Wilson ’23. See sidebar on page 82.

Alexiya Downer ’25

Alexiya Downer was named Boston College’s Women’s Diver of the Year. As a freshman, Alexiya earned first in 1M diving against UMass with a score of 245.18.

Eldad Zamir visited the San Jose Campus this spring to meet with some of his favorite teachers and pick up some Bulldog gear from the Alumni Office. At Bolles, Eldad was a boarder and a standout swimmer for Coach Peter Verhoef’s multiple state championship swim teams. Eldad also served as the President of the International Student Union and enjoyed being a member of the Jewish Student Union. Eldad is finishing up his freshman year at George Washington University where he competes for GW as a member of the Revolutionaries swim team. He is pursuing a degree in finance, marketing and economics and hopes to attend next year’s Bolles On the Road Alumni event in Washington, D.C.

John-Hill ’24 Helps JU Lacrosse to Historic Success

Bolles alumnus Daylin John-Hill ’24, a sophomore attackman on the Jacksonville University men’s lacrosse team, helped the Dolphins to historic success in the 2026 season. JU won the program’s first-ever NCAA postseason game and conference title this season.

John-Hill scored a team-high four goals in the Atlantic Sun Conference Championship and was named to the ASUN

All-Tournament team as the Dolphins won the ASUN and earned the program’s first-ever NCAA tournament berth. He also contributed a goal and team-high four assists as JU won its opening round NCAA tournament game 13-7 over Robert Morris. He then added a goal and an assist in the Dolphins’ loss to Notre Dame in the next round.

John-Hill finished the season ranked third on the team in total points (51), goals (31) and assists (20).

Eldad Zamir ’25 and Peter Verhoef

2026-27

Key Dates

July 7

Bolles on the Road in Highlands

August 13

First Day of School

September 7 Labor Day, School Closed

October 9–10

Homecoming & Alumni Reunion Weekend

October 19 Fall Break, School Closed

Week of Bolles on the Road in London for October 13-18 Jacksonville Jaguars Game

October 21

October 22

November 10

Bolles on the Road — Washington, D.C.

Bolles on the Road — New York City

Bolles on the Road — Dallas

November 23–27 Thanksgiving Break, School Closed

December 21–31 Winter Break, School Closed

Winter Break, School Closed

January 5

Professional Development, School Closed

January 5

Young Alumni Lunch with Faculty Classes Resume

Friday, October 9

Alumni Family Tailgate 5 p.m.

January 18 Martin Luther King Jr. Day, School Closed

February 15

March 8–12

Presidents Day, School Closed

Spring Break, School Closed

March 26–29 Spring Holiday, School Closed

Homecoming Football Game 7 p.m. Kickoff Skinner-Barco Stadium San Jose Campus

April 23

Professional Development, School Closed

April 26

School Closed

Saturday, October 10 Bartram Luncheon 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. Bartram Campus

May 21

Last Day of Classes for Middle and

May 27

Last Day of School for Lower School

Legacy Luncheon 11 a.m.-1 p.m. San Jose River Campus

May 29

Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2027

May 31

Memorial Day, School Closed

Non-discriminatory clause: The Bolles School admits students of any race, color and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally available to students at the School. It does not discriminate in administering educational policies or other school programs. This School is authorized under Federal law to enroll non-immigrant students.

All-Alumni Cocktail Party 5-8 p.m. San Jose River Campus

7400 San Jose Boulevard Jacksonville, Florida 32217

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Audiences stepped inside a world of pure imagination as the Bolles Lower School Ponte Vedra Beach Campus delivered its production of “Willy Wonka Jr.” February 11-12 in George Hall.

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2026 Bolles Magazine Summer Issue by The Bolles School - Issuu