Spring 2024 Big Blue

Big Blue

Newsletter for The Blessed Sacrament Huguenot School Community

Arsenic and Old Lace Spring Drama Production

Arsenic and Old Lace cast, crew, and directors

Lily Hickey and Liza Watkins play Abby and Martha Brewster

Letter from Tracy Hamner, Head of School

Dear Friends,

Though I can scarcely believe it, I have just celebrated my first anniversary as your Head of School. To say this is a deep privilege is an understatement. I am so grateful to be part of the BSH family. Here is a short list of the blessings for which I thank God:

• Our students are thriving, smiling, excelling, and growing in academic success and strong character.

• My own children are happy to be BSH Knights!

• Our faculty and staff are amazing, dedicated, creative, and hardworking. It is a joy to be part of this team. Many families joined our community and there are now 90% more students than five years ago! Their positive energy is terrific!

• The Brower Center is dedicated and open! What an incredible addition this is to our campus.

• You are helping meet challenge grants to this special place – your generosity is inspiring!

All too soon, the class of 2024 will be graduating. Every senior is already accepted into a college or university and will confidently step forward into the next phase of their lives. The values they’ve learned, practiced, and witnessed in their teachers, peers, and families will continue to be their foundation. We wish them the very best and want them to know we are always here for them, cheering them on and eager to see them when they return to campus.

Your Blessed Sacrament Huguenot School continues its commitment to our mission. Ours is a welcoming, faith-based school environment where our students are growing in intellect, talents, confidence, and character. You make a defining difference to BSH with your support and encouragement. Thank you for welcoming my family and me to this wonderful community.

Gratefully,

Tracy Hamner, Head of School

Our mission is to provide a broad, values-based curriculum in a supportive Catholic environment that welcomes all faiths, celebrates individual talents, challenges academic intellect, supports and nurtures growth, builds character, instills confidence , and prepares students for success at the university level and in life.

Easter Egg Hunt

Parent volunteers Natalie Delmege and Ashley Welch planned an incredible Easter Egg Hunt for BSH students, collecting 6,000 eggs over the last year. Though unexpected rain drove the event inside, it’s easy to see how much fun students, and the Easter Bunny, enjoyed!

Memorable Evening at Parker Gym Honored Four Alums

Raymond Avery, Sean McQueen, Robbie Kurtz, and Kristian Hargadon

The Parker Gym floor was named SeanStrong Court in honor of BSH alum Sean McQueen, Class of 2019 on December 9, 2023. BSH received many generous donations to name the court in Sean’s honor. Sean, his family, and friends were on hand for the memorable occasion.

On the same evening, three outstanding alumni athletes were recognized at a jersey unveiling ceremony to celebrate reaching the milestone of scoring over 1000 points in their basketball career at BSH. Congratulations to Kristian Hargadon, Robbie Kurtz and Raymond Avery! Hargadon, Class of 1997, wore jersey #12 and is the BSH all-time leading scorer with 1,863 points. Kurtz, Class of 2020, wore jersey #4 and scored 1,117 points. Avery, Class of 2020, wore jersey #3 and scored 1,102 points. Framed jerseys honoring these athletes are on permanent display in Parker Gym on the wall outside the concession room beside the championship banners. You can read more about each of these athletes in the Class Notes.

From Little to Big, Girls Thrive in BSH Athletics

JV Basketball star, Meredith Klotz, means business!

Coed Varsity Soccer offers opportunites for men and women to shine.

Senior Charlie Potter, All-Metro Team Honorable Mention, leads the Girls Volleyball team to our Division State Tournament for their first appearance.

Varsity Football Team

Cheer – Much Harder than You Think!

What is the biggest misperception about Cheer Teams?

“That they’re not athletes!” Mindy Zimmerman, Coach of the J.V. and Varsity Cheer Teams and a lead teacher with the BSH Early Learners, explains, “Cheerleaders don’t throw and catch balls, so people think they’re not athletes. But throwing and catching human beings takes athleticism – the risks require strength, precision and teamwork!”

Mrs. Zimmerman’s goals for the many girls who join her squads are to build strength and confidence, build team unity and overall character. She can recount many stories of girls who joined the team with low confidence and skills but through hard work and determination became stronger physically and mentally. She expects her girls to work hard and consider every team member a best friend because no one person or role is more important than any other. No one should stand out. Everyone is important. Glory or defeat belongs to the entire group. And – No Drama Allowed. These are Zimmerman guidelines that serve her athletes not only on cheer squads but in all aspects of school life.

As in all BSH sports, every student has the opportunity to participate, everyone has the opportunity to join the team. Though some arrive with previous cheering experience, most join without. Zimmerman welcomes them all and starts simply, teaching rhythm and strength training for stunts. Sometimes, girls are afraid, and she helps them build trust for those who are holding and those who are “flying,” as stunts are called in the language of cheer. It’s not easy – but the improvement teams make over the summer months before the start of the football season is remarkable.

At most schools, cheering is a dream girls can’t achieve without years of recreational training and competition. At BSH, Ms. Zimmerman welcomes all who want to try. She has confidence that with hard work and dedication, each girl can become part of a great BSH squad. And through more than a decade of BSH coaching, she knows this is true!

Varsity Cheer Squad leads the crowd.

Lower School Cheer Squad attracted 46 girls for their first practice!

Cheer Coach Zimmerman watches her squad.

Larry

Starr Head Coach of BSH Girls Basketball

Q & A with Coach Larry Starr

New Head Coach for the BSH Varsity Girls Basketball Team

How long have you been coaching?

High School, since 2000, but coaching since 1981.

What is your background in this sport?

I played in high school and then began coaching basketball in Middle School in Ohio. I had three daughters and began coaching them. I made a career change in 2000 and began coaching girls at Maggie Walker Governor’s School and then two years later moved to Monacan High School. I coached at Monacan as the head coach from 2005/06 - 2021/22. I stepped away during the 2022/23 season and then started at BSH for the 2023/24 season.

Please describe the most memorable games/ tournaments/championships of your career.

There are really far too many to mention, but I would have to say the three state championships from 2015-2017 and then the state championship in 2020/21 with an entirely different team.

What is it about the opportunity to coach at Blessed Sacrament Huguenot that brought you out of retirement?

I really missed coaching the year I stepped out. Chuck Thomas (Athletic Director at Blessed Sacrament Huguenot) is an old acquaintance of mine. We talked for quite a bit and when I met the girls, I really became excited about a new challenge.

"If your team sees you are more interested in them as a person than wins and losses, they will push themselves beyond what they ever thought their limits were."

As you step into this new role at Blessed Sacrament Huguenot, what are your goals for the team?

As with any team that I’ve coached, we set goals very high. If we don’t achieve them, then we’ve done well to reach for the stars and worked hard to get there. This year, as always, I have 3 goals for my team:

1. To improve each and every game

2. To win the Virginia Commonwealth Conference (never done that at BSH)

3. To win the VISAA Division Four State Championship

What are some promising signs you’re seeing in practices with this new team?

The work ethic and the commitment from our girls is impressive. They motivate me personally every time I walk into the gym and we are getting better every day.

What are a few things that the team does in training that will be keys to their success?

1. Physically improve every day

2. Work on fundamentals

How do you encourage the team after a disappointing loss?

We have talked about this since I took over. We are going to have ups and downs, and learning a new system for a new coach is going to have growing pains. We look at each game and look at the areas we improved in and we take that as a win. We also look at the areas where we need to continue to improve and make a commitment to work to fix those areas.

What is the biggest life lesson you've learned from being a coach?

If your team sees you’re more interested in them as a person than wins and losses, you can work them hard and they will push themselves beyond what they ever thought their limits were. Relationship building with your players is very key to any success you have as a team.

What legacy do you hope to leave as a coach?

When I leave, I want people to remember me as not only their coach, but also a friend and mentor that they could always count on. Our saying every year is “We live and die as a TEAM!"

A FEW WORDS FROM BSH PLAYERS ABOUT COACH STARR

5 THINGS YOU’VE LEARNED FROM COACH STARR

• To endure a new intensity level

• Push to be positive

• Confidence is big!

• Stay focused on improving

• Get out of your comfort zone

We sat down with Senior Captains Charlie Potter and Lily Hickey and players Liza Watkins, Avery Poore and Addy Dowdy for a topline on Coach Starr and his coaching approach from the player perspective.

5 WORDS TO DESCRIBE COACH STARR'S COACHING STYLE

• DETERMINED

• HEART

• SUPPORTIVE

• CONFIDENT

• FAMILY, "We live and die as a team"

Brower Student Center Dedication

February 20, 2024, was a momentous day for Blessed Sacrament Huguenot School. The long-anticipated Brower Student Center was dedicated, and students, faculty and guests were amazed by their first glimpse of the interior. The festivities began with a program in Parker Gymnasium. Mistress of Ceremonies and Director of Development, Sue Hickey, opened the event, which featured student speakers Sophie Thompson and Lily Hickey, music by the High School Ensemble, and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Mrs. Anderson’s first grade class. The Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, shared remarks and blessed the new building. Col. R. Keith Brower spoke of the deep meaning the school holds in the hearts of he and his wife, Kathleen. Tracy Hamner, Head of School, shared his excitement for the impact the new center will have for all students.

After the Browers cut the ribbon, the tours began and exclamations of surprise and joy were heard throughout the day. Spinning around in the new Gascoyne Gymnasium, taking in the sight of the many rooms visible on both levels of the building, children were often heard asking, “Is this really all for us?” Proving the character of our Knights, many children ran to the Browers spontaneously to say, “Thank you!”

Blessed Sacrament Huguenot School is indeed grateful to Kathleen and Keith Brower, and to all the many donors whose generosity allowed this important new resource to open. If you have yet to see the Brower Student Center, please come to campus for a visit!

Brower Student Center. Ribbon Cutting.

BSH men enjoy the new upstairs lounge.

pledge allegiance.

Taylor Hamner and Jack Hickey gave the Bishop a tour of The Brower Center.

BSH crowd dedicates The Brower Center.

The Browers tour the new center.

No Secret Here – Admissions Continues to Grow

If it ever was a secret, the secret is out! Blessed Sacrament Huguenot is a fabulous place for students from early learners through high school. The 2024-2025 school year is gearing up to be very strong for admissions. In fact, 92% of current students, not including those graduating in 2024, are already registered for the upcoming school year. This high retention rate is a testimony to the value of a BSH education. Additionally, almost 90 new students have already enrolled and are eager to join the Knights community in August. A total enrollment of approximately 500 students is anticipated, more than a 90% growth since 2018. Spaces are limited and some classes already have a waitlist in place. If you or someone you know is interested in BSH, we suggest you call the Admissions Office sooner rather than later! Additional information is available at BSHKnights.org.

Ready for College and Already Ahead

Starting with the 2020/21 school year, the Blessed Sacrament Huguenot School added Dual Enrollment coursework to the school’s overall curriculum pathway. Through dual enrollment programs, schools partner with community colleges to offer students the opportunity to take college-level courses and earn college credit while still in high school. BSH obtained certification to add courses for students on our campus. Some BSH faculty members received training and certification to teach dual enrollment courses, which require each teacher to earn 18 credits at the master’s degree level in the subject area they teach. Successful completion of a course allows the student to simultaneously obtain high school verified credit and college credit, provided their college of choice accepts the credit.

Dual Enrollment courses allow students to explore coursework at the college level and to test their interest in a particular area of study. Currently, BSH offers the following dual enrollment courses: Biology, Chemistry, and United States History. In addition to dual enrollment courses, BSH offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses to continue a rigorous pathway for students and provide an opportunity to obtain potential college credit. The AP courses currently available include: AP Art History, AP Environmental Science, AP Human Geography, AP Government and Politics, and AP Literature and Composition. BSH’s dual enrollment and AP programs work in tandem to academically challenge students.

Since the start of BSH’s program, students have earned a total of 519 hours, the equivalent of approximately 35 semesters of 15 college credit hours. The program has grown quickly. Since the start of BSH’s program, students have earned a total of 519 hours, the equivalent of approximately 35 semesters of 15 college credit hours. The first year, six students received nine credits; yet, now in only its fourth year, 18 students will receive a total of 126 credits. Challenging oneself through advanced coursework makes a positive impact on college admissions.

To give now, scan here:

You are Revealing the Knight, showing all the traits our Knights learn and practice at BSH. You are revealing your generosity as the community strives to unlock both challenge grants for a total of $450,000.

Thank you so much! Your generosity is needed! YOU ARE PROVIDING:

• New and expanded programs for students

• Financial Aid

• Facility Improvements

• The BSH Margin of Excellence

• Our fully equipped Brower Student Center and finalized funding

Thank you for ALL you do! Let’s finish the year strong, unlock both exciting challenges and Reveal the Knight!

The Class of 2024

At time of printing, not all college decisions were finalized.

The Class of 2024

Class of 2024 College Acceptances

The University of Alabama

Bridgewater College

Brightpoint Community College

The Citadel

Clemson University

Christopher Newport University

Coastal Carolina University

College of Charleston

East Carolina University

Hampden-Sydney College

Hollins University

James Madison University

Liberty University

Longwood University

Long Island University

Louisiana State University

Old Dominion University

University of Mississippi - Ole Miss

Pennsylvania State University

Radford University

Randolph-Macon College

Roanoke College

Texas Tech University

University of Kentucky

University of Maryland

University of Oregon

University of Tennessee

University of South Carolina

University of Virginia

University of Vermont

Villanova University

Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Military Institute

Virginia Tech

Wingate University

Spring ‘24 Big Blue

CLASS NOTES

Class of ‘74, 50th Reunion Year!

Thanks to Paul Mitchell, ‘74 Class Representative, for his thoughtful, time-consuming work in gathering Class Notes from so many of your peers in this 50th reunion year for the Huguenot Academy Class of ‘74! We look forward to welcoming everyone back to campus the weekend of September 20.

Cathy Goldman Crawford, HA '72 (cheerleader, softball and class clown!)

Cathy loved her time at HA and then moved on to Longwood. She worked at Media General/Richmond Newspapers for 32 years and then worked for KPMG, an accounting firm, for 15 years. Cathy is now retired and is enjoying gardening, family and friends, and trips with her daughter, Kaitlin. She is loving life!

Dr. Kathy Lukhard Gabrielson, DVM, PhD, DACVP, HA ‘74

Karen Christian "Chris" Tuttle Mokan, HA ‘74

After living in Corning, NY, among other places for 24 years, Lenny and Chris retired to Beaufort, SC, in 2009. Chris worked as a Special Ed teacher for 20 years in Corning. Since living in Beaufort, Chris has trained two of her labs to be therapy dogs. Together, they visit the Beaufort Naval Hospital, the Parris Island injured recruits, the Beaufort Library, and an assisted living facility. Chris and Lenny have two grown children, Steven who lives in Niwot, CO, with his wife, and Ashley who lives in Horseheads, NY, with her husband and daughter.

Emory Herbert "Trey" Smith III, HA ‘74

Kathy is a boarded veterinary pathologist at Johns Hopkins Medical Institute where she is also a biomedical researcher and pathology teacher. On vacations, she works with an organization called “Gorilla Doctors” where she helps determine why wild mountain gorillas die in Rwanda. She explained that when she has visited the gorillas, she may be surrounded by as many as three dozen gorillassome only an arm's reach away. Here is a photo she took at one occasion when two families of gorillas met and Kathy just happen to be in the middle of it. Also, here is a photo of her teaching vet students in Uganda about chicken diseases. Kathy and her husband Ed have two sons, Matt and Ben. Their pets include Gus the dog, three chickens, and two sheep.

Trey and his wife Susan are both retired and moved from Richmond to South Carolina 12 years ago when they became empty nesters. They have two daughters (a lawyer in Raleigh, and an Air Force Major in Las Vegas). Each is happily married and has one child. Trey and Susan celebrated their 40th anniversary this year. They travel a bit and dote a lot on the grandkids. (Thank you Facetime!)

Daniel Milton Alley, PhD, HA ‘74

Still happy after 44 years, Dan and his wife Beth split their time between working (part-time as a semi-retired consultant in electronics design for functional safety), travel (England, France, Italy, and Tampa are the most recent trips), and family (they have five grandchildren!). Beth is learning to watercolor and Dan enjoys woodworking projects. He says that his work is trending now to smaller objects - which he notes are kinder to the lower back. Dan and Beth are at the same physical address in Earlysville, attempting to stay put despite both kids' families not being so close. Dan’s life work life is on www.linkedin.com/in/danielmiltonalley

Sandra Yarbrough Erdle, HA ‘74

Sandra is a conservation biologist who retired from the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve at VIMS (Virginia Institute of Marine Science). She has twin sons, and several grandchildren! In her retirement, Sandra tries to stay active - frequently taking classes at William and Mary's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, birding in her backyard and community, continuing to be a voracious reader, walking, hiking, and training her eight-month old Brittany puppy. She currently resides in Gloucester County, and she is on Facebook.

Myra Katherine Byrd Fazzi, HA ‘74

Myra and her husband Rick Fazzi, Jr. have two grown children - Stephanie and Melanie. Myra and Rick are both retired from Verizon Communications after 35+ years.

Ken Cvacho, HA ‘74

Ken and his wife Mary Kay are both retired and enjoy traveling in their camper to the Southwest. They usually spend about four months every winter traveling, exploring and enjoying desert camping. Ken retired in 2016 as a mechanical engineer for a company that supplies nuclear components to the navy and Mary Kay retired in 2014 as a secretary at their church.

Paul Mitchell, HA ‘74

William Daryle "Billy" Highsmith, HA ‘74

Died January 18, 2021

William “Bill” Daryle Highsmith, 64, of Folkston, passed away January 18, 2021. Born September 1, 1956, in Richmond, VA, to the late William Haywood Highsmith and Sallie Myrtle Burrell Highsmith, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy for 21 years. Bill enjoyed building stuff with his hands, making wine, and loved travel and classic cars. A family-oriented man and loving father and papa, he was extremely generous and always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He is survived by his children, Zachary Collin (Ashlynn) Highsmith, Joseph Ethan Highsmith, Kala (Jess) Nettles and Whitney Sierra Dorman; a brother, Gerald Highsmith; and eight grandchildren.

Barbara ‘Bobbi’ Thompson Castellan, HA ‘76

Died September 28, 2023

Retired from trucking, Paul is a full-time historian with local history projects. Over the past few years, he has worked closely with BSH Athletic Director, Chuck Thomas (HA Class of ‘87), to honor several HA VAAC championship basketball and football teams from the early 70’s. At one event, the team presented a handsome memorial plaque for the BSH Hall of Fame honoring the late basketball coach, history teacher and assistant headmaster Jim Davidson, who died of brain cancer in 1979 at only 33. Paul has been a widower since September 2015 when his wife Janice Hagen Mitchell died unexpectedly. Their only daughter Eva is a 3rd grader in her 5th year at Blessed Sacrament Huguenot (thanks to the generosity of the Hagens, Janice’s parents). Eva LOVES BSH!

Barbara ‘Bobbi’ Castellan, a friend and light to all who knew her, passed away on September 28, 2023, after a sudden cardiac event. Born in Richmond, VA, to Albert and Edith Thompson, Bobbi attended Peace College for two years. She graduated from UVA where she met her future husband, Steve. Upon graduation, Bobbi and Steve spent their first two years of marriage living in France. Upon returning to the US, Bobbi began her 40+ year nursing career, which exemplified her call to service and commitment to health justice. Bobbi’s spirituality pulled from all corners of human experience and thought. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Steve, her son Aaron, daughter Megan, Megan’s husband Ben, and the thousands of lives she touched throughout her life. Let us all seek to “inspire kindness” as Bobbi strove to do throughout her life.

Major General (retired) James C. Witham, HA ‘76, USAFA ‘80

James Witham graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado, Class of 1980. In 2010 he was appointed a U.S. Air Force Brigadier General and in 2013 he received his second star as a Major General. Major General James C. Witham, United States Air Force, was awarded the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Witham and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Jill (Konvicka) Balleh, HA ‘76

Jill spent the past 36 years in the truck driver training industry, opening her own school, CDS Tractor Trailer Training, in 1999.

CDS has three locations in Virginia – Richmond, Roanoke, and Fredericksburg, providing CDL training for several Virginia Community Colleges. To date, her company is responsible for training 30,000 new CDL drivers who gain from earning higher incomes and benefits for their families. Jill is currently semi-retired and was remarried on New Years Eve, 2022. She now enjoys her favorite hobbies – golf, grandchildren, traveling, and living on a lake.

Carol Beth Spivey

Cook, HA ‘76

Carol Beth attended William and Mary, the alma mater of both of her parents, and later of her brother Bobby, HA '78. After graduation, Carol Beth went to work for Ukrop's Super Markets and earned her MBA at University of Richmond in 1990. In 1991, she married John Buchanan, and had two children, Maggie and Matt. After leaving Ukrop's, Carol Beth and John owned a small marketing company in Midlothian, and in

2000, she earned her real estate license. She joined Shaheen, Ruth, Martin, & Fonville in 2018. In 2018, Carol Beth married Doug Cook. They live in Woodlake, and love tennis, jigsaw puzzles, and travel. They are also active at The Brandermill Church, where she sings in the choir and he volunteers with the food pantry. Fun fact: Carol Beth now lives on the very same street as classmate Chris Jones and his family.

Chris Jones, HA ‘76

Chris Jones taught American, English, and Dramatic Literature for twentyfive years, fifteen of them at Nandua High School on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. He became a teacher and coach because of his teachers (specifically, Jim Davidson) and coaches (all of them) at Huguenot Academy. Chris says without their influence his life would have been very different. He is married to the beautiful Cindy Kilgore and they have two wonderful children, Katherine and Tom. Over the last few years, Paul Mitchell (HA, ‘74), Chuck Thomas (HA, ‘87 and BSH Athletic Director), and Chris, have worked together to recognize and honor HA athletic teams. At present, the school is preparing to recognize the 1974 HA Baseball Team on the 50th Anniversary of its landmark season; and in September, the ‘71 and ‘74 Football Teams along with the ‘74-’75 Cheerleaders (VAAC State Champions) will be honored.

Harry “Buddy” Briesmaster, HA ‘78

After HA, Buddy attended VMI and graduated in 1982 as a civil engineer. He was then commissioned into the Air Force and traveled the world for the next 27 years obtaining the rank of Colonel and two masters degrees - one in engineering and the other in political science. He was stationed in 14 different locations, including Korea, and was deployed to Iraq in 2005. Retiring from Active Duty in 2009, Buddy became the Base Civil Engineer for Hill Air Force Base in Utah as a federal civilian for 17 years and transitioned to aircraft maintenance in 2022. Buddy is married with 10 children and seven grandchildren.

HA Multi-Year Reunions ‘81-85

Alumni and friends of Huguenot Academy classes of 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, and 1985 were welcomed back to campus on Homecoming Weekend in October for a multi-year reunion. Festivities included a Friday night pre-homecoming game gathering followed by a band party, barbecue, and school tours on Saturday. Thanks to everyone who joined us - we hope to see you back on campus soon!

Class of 1981 Reunion

“Mary and I were so glad to be part of the planning for this 40th celebration and know all that were there enjoyed the camaraderie!”

Ben Mason, ‘81 Class Representative

Left to right: Geoff O’Donnell, Libba Jewett Walters, Barbee Cox, David Smith, Anne Harrison Lewis Harris, Jimmy Lewis, Robert Whitehead, Julia Smith, Jeff Wilmore

Class of 1982 Reunion

“It was a great turn out, and a lot of fun seeing everyone!”

Debbie Walmsley, ‘82

Class Representative

First row from left to right: Beth Dingus, Beverly Osborne, Ann Drake, Cindy Clark, Jerleen Jeter-Koa, Debbie Bonifant, Wayne Poates, Hunter Elam, Dennis Goodwyn and Chris Anderson; Back row left to right: John Lewis, Chris Goodwyn, Bill Burke, Chris Moxley, Lonnie Combs, Paul Shorter, Jimmy Headley and Steve Hawkins

Classmates, family and friends of Ryan gathered at the Brower Center opening to celebrate the naming of the new gymnasium. Ryan Gascoyne, Class of 1993, enjoyed every aspect of his experience here on campus, from academics, to theater and athletics. Inspired by a place that was such an important part of their son’s life, his family chose to honor his memory through a generous gift to name the new gymnasium.

Class of 1983 Reunion

Front row, left to right: John G. Lewis, Mary Margaret Mason Evans, Sharon Shiro, Lisa Goodwyn O’Donnell, Todd Brooking, Angela Gordon Murphy, Any Stanley, Tim Brownson; Back row left to right: Sam Deaner Woolard, Eddie Urbine, Chris Smith, Jeff O’Donnell, Robert Jessup, Ruth Graham Frazier, Burnette Elam. Other reunion attendees, not pictured: Jonathan Manley Emilie Hancock Watson Tibbs, Jewell Carter Jones & Jimmy Powers.

“The 1981-85 HA multi- class reunion weekend was so much fun. It was great reconnecting with classmates, teachers, staff and coaches. Although the school has a different name now and so many changes continue to take place throughout the entire campus,

it still felt like home for me! The memories just came flooding back and for the most part, we were all able to pick up where we left off (quite a few years ago for some). It truly was great to be back to 'where it all began!' I’d like to thank Chuck Thomas for all that he did to make this reunion happen. He has done a tremendous job at bridging the gap between Huguenot Academy and BSH, the school is certainly lucky to have him!”

Mary Mason Evans, ‘83 Class Representative

Class of 1984 Reunion

“We received more positive comments from classmates than we could have imagined about the idea, organization, and execution of a multiyear reunion weekend. The shared memories from our daily interactions during school through teams, clubs, dances, dating, etc., added to the excitement and joy of having an overlapping class reunion. Thanks to Chuck Thomas for being the voice we needed to make it possible. Thanks everyone for the memories!”

Micheal Pulley, Class of ‘84 and Scott Goodwyn, ‘84 Class Representative

Left to right: Mary Elizabeth (Goodwyn) Whitney, Kent Allen, Sherri Powers Johnson, Keith Adams, Gwen Walker Bates, Steve Bates, Lynnette Lawson, Lelia Graham (Lewis) Webb, Michael Pulley, Carol (Tilman) Lewis, Linda Shiro

Class of 1985 Reunion

“The HA Class of '85 had 32 students in its graduating class so having 13 of us gather for this multi-year reunion was a great showing. Everyone had fun - loving the opportunity to see each other and many of our beloved teachers again. JB Jeter and Peter Hempfling made our class proud with their band, The Illbillys. They’ve been playing together since high school and always put on a good show. Two of our classmates had just become engaged – Kelly McDowell and Mike Nichols. Our old Huguenot Academy campus looks amazing, and we were grateful for the support and encouragement that Blessed Sacrament Huguenot gave us in hosting our event. My only regret was that there were so many people to catch up with that I was left wanting more conversation with many. For those unable to come, we missed you! It was a really good party. See you next time!” Anne Mitchell Maliff, ‘85 Class Representative

Left to right: Jacque Norship Clement, Emily Duncan Lyster, Olevia Urbine Talbert, Steve Porter, Peter Hempfling (brown hat), JB Jeter (White Hat), Mike Nichols (Back), Ward Jones (middle) Kelly Salmons McDowel (front) Read Goode (back) Holly Carter Swift (front), Anne Mitchell Maliff, Jud McGuire

Jenny Young, HA ‘87

Jenny is employed by Kroger as she works toward her associate degree in Mass Communications at Brightpoint Community College. She is the proud mom of Bryan, who lives and works in Virginia Beach. Jenny has been back in Richmond since April 2017 and has been back on “this side of the river” with her significant other since March of 2020.

Kristian M. Hargadon, Ph.D., HA ‘97

Kristian was recently recognized by the University of Virginia Medical Alumni Association with the 2023 Early Achievement Award in Biomedical Sciences. Hargadon earned his Doctorate in Microbiology at the University of Virginia after completing graduate studies in the laboratory of Victor H. Engelhard, PhD. There, he investigated the induction of CD8+ T-cell responses to cancer. In 2009, Hargadon accepted an assistant professor position in the Biology Department of his alma mater, Hampden-Sydney College, where he has since

earned tenure and risen to the rank of professor. Kristian was honored for his 1,000 point status and his jersey was retired and is hanging in Parker Gym.

William Hardy, BSH ‘00 and Angus Barr, BSH ‘99

William Hardy and Angus Barr, best friends since 1993 when the Hardy twins came to BSH, recently caught up over a visit! Angus went to Barton College for a year and ultimately graduated from Johnson and Wales University. He worked as a chef in the Charlotte area for several years, and then moved back to Virginia where he works at Wegmans. He started as a Chef in the Pub, and began working in various departments when the Pub closed because of Covid. William, who earned a BSN, RN, and CCRN, graduated from Hampden Sydney in 2004, and then got his BS in nursing from Drexel University. Currently he is a Sales Trainer for a global medical device company and recently moved back to VA with his family from Arizona. He is married and has three daughters. The picture was taken recently at William and Eva’s house where William and Angus renewed their friendship and enjoyed dinner together.

Jeron Jones, BSH ‘02

A triple threat athlete at BSH participating in football, soccer, and track & field, Jeron earned a full athletic football scholarship to Virginia Union Military Academy. Jeron’s professional international football career stretched from January 2014 to June 2020, when he played for a host of American football teams and leagues including the Serbian American Football League, the Brazilian American Football League, and the Turkish American Football League among others. Throughout his playing career, he earned many awards and distinctions. Additionally, he has worked as a professional coach for Trinity Episcopal School (football and track & field) and at Cosby High School. A passionate, motivated and dedicated humanitarian, Jeron currently works for Clearview Counseling Services as a Community Programs Manager & Marketing Specialist.

Sarah (Woody) Bowen, BSH ‘03

Sarah graduated from James Madison University with an M.Ed. in College Student Personnel Administration. In 2020, she (and business partner Stephanie) opened The Dogwood Tree florist shop in Charlottesville, VA. The shop specializes in locally grown flowers, gourmet gift baskets and gifts crafted by Virginia-based artists and small business artisans. Next time you’re in Charlottesville - stop by the shop! Free gift to anyone in BSH-wear. GO KNIGHTS! www.thedogwoodtreeflorist.com

Thomas Konvicka, BSH ‘04

Thomas is celebrating his 11th year as a personal injury attorney at the Joel Bieber Firm. He and his wife Marika were JUST MARRIED on November 18, 2023.

Emily C. Janto, BSH ‘08

Emily Janto (2008) was recently slated to be the 2024-2025 President of the Junior League of Richmond. Additionally, she serves on the Young Professional Leadership Council of the Richmond Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. She is still great friends with Tory Gilliam ‘08 (pictured with her at the ‘23 Starry Night Gala for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation) who was recently selected for the 2024 Spring RVA Leadership Lab cohort and is serving a three-year term as a Community Advisory Board Member for the Junior League of Richmond.

Russell Garrett Leboff, BSH ‘09

Russell (BSH class of '09) and Amy Leboff were married in November of 2021 and moved back to Powhatan in the fall of 2022. Last May, they welcomed their first child, a baby boy, to their growing family (Russell Kenneth Leboffa.k.a. "Baby Russ"). Russell works in management at a Facilities Management firm and Amy is a local realtor. On the weekends, Russ and Amy enjoy walking the trails at Fighting Creek Park or enjoying a cup of coffee at Rise and Grind.

Dr. Taylor Myers, BSH ‘09

Taylor recently opened a new location of East Coast Elite Chiropractic in Powhatan and hired a new doctor to join the practice!

Alex Walker, BSH ‘10

Alex currently resides in Glen Allen with his wife Allie and their golden yellow lab, Griffin. In the past year they celebrated the birth of their first child, James Walker (JJ for short), and who knows…they may have a future Knight on their hands. Alex currently works as an analyst for Dominion Energy. He has always taken pride that his foundation was built from his years at BSH. The adage certainly rings true: once a Knight; always a Knight.

Connor Paul, BSH ‘10

Surrounded by family and friends (many from his early days at BSH), Connor married Kaitlyn Riley on September 25, 2022. Six, count em, SIX groomsmen and one usher went to Blessed Sacrament Huguenot. “I was very fortunate to attend BSH. Thank you, BSH, for these lifelong friends! ” Pictured starting left to right in the back are: Alayna Hodge Newlin (2011), Max Newlin (2011), Connor Paul (2010), bride Kaitlyn Riley Paul, usher Chris Howard (2010), groomsman Ross Rudolph (2010), groomsman Matt Wyman (2010), groomsman Alex Walker (2010), best man Gavin Paul (2011), groomsman Aaron Johnson (2010), groomsman Eddie Schneider (2010).

Corinne Birriel, BSH ‘12

Amanda (Lindsay) Walker, BSH ‘12

Amanda married her best friend in March of 2020. They have a dog named Diesel and just welcomed their first son, Christopher Walker Jr. in October of 2023.

Leigh Ann Hartless Barber, BSH ‘12

Leigh Ann is a fully licensed therapist, certified with the National Board of Counselors. She married her best friend, Logan, in 2021. They bought their dream home and are settled with their 16-month-old son. Leigh Ann & Logan went to Iceland in the fall and it was amazing!

James and Michelle (Golden) Mozingo, BSH ‘16

James and Michelle met at BSH in high school and are both graduates of the Class of 2016. James attended Hampden Sydney and graduated with degrees in Business Economics & History. Michelle graduated from Longwood University with a degree in Business Administration and Marketing. James and Michelle were married on October 22, 2022. Their niece and nephew, Charlotte and Dawson Tatro, attend BSH now and they hope to send their kids to BSH one day.

Emily & Antonio Evola, BSH ‘17

Emily and Antonio met in 5th grade at BSH and graduated together in 2017. After college, they reconnected in Richmond and were just married on October 14, 2023, at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Richmond. Emily and Antonio were joined by many former Knights on their wedding day – pictured here.

A Knight from Early Learners through grade 12, Corinne attended James Madison University. After graduation from JMU, she spent a couple of years in Richmond until a road trip took her to San Francisco. She’s lived there ever since! Corinne was recently promoted from an Associate Director to Director of Marketing at IEQ Capital, a high-net-worth RIA in Silicon Valley. In her free time, she enjoys long distance running, rock climbing, surfing, cooking, and walking her dog. Rocky.

Kate Hatfield, BSH ‘18

Kate attended the University of Alabama for about two years until the pandemic in 2020. Upon returning to Alabama, she took a job as a line-cook and decided to pursue a career in the culinary field. In 2022 she started working at NorthRiver Yacht Club where she had the opportunity to learn from Chef Scott French. She was recently recruited to work for Chef Josh Feathers at Blackberry Farm and will be relocating to Tennessee where she plans to complete her education and continue to grow her career.

Raymond Avery, BSH ‘20

Raymond is currently a senior at Virginia Tech's College of Engineering. He was honored at BSH in December for being a 1,000+ point scorer. His photo can be seen with other honorees on page 5.

Katie Schiefer, BSH ‘20

Robbie Kurtz, BSH ‘20

Robbie is currently a senior at Christopher Newport University majoring in Business. He has been involved in Reformed University Fellowship for four years and plans to work with a Christian Ministry after graduation. He was honored at BSH in December for being a 1,000+ point scorer. His photo can be seen with other honorees on page 5.

Katie will be graduating Cum Laude from Virginia Tech with a Bachelors of Science in Human Nutrition, Food, and Exercise and a minor in psychology, in May ‘24. After graduation, she will begin to earn the Master of Science in Nursing at UVA. Katie is extremely excited to see what the future holds as she follows her dreams, one step at a time!

Jessica Johnson, BSH ‘21

Now in her junior year at William & Mary, Jessica has declared majors in both Psychology and Art History. This past semester, she and a group of fellow students had the opportunity to curate an art exhibit - experiencing every aspect that comes with curating, from conceptualizing the theme, borrowing from collections, working with local artists, research, installation, de-installation, cataloging, archiving, and so much more. Keep an eye on the William and Mary website where the virtual exhibit will be going live soon! The Exhibit title is Face to Face: Across Spaces and Places.

Shaw Forward, BSH ‘21

Shaw is currently an English and Art History student at VCU, and plans on a career teaching high school English. At VCU, she serves as the president of a feminist organization that fights for gender equality and aims to ensure that no individual has to endure sexual harassment in an educational setting. She looks forward to actively practicing these values in her own classroom to ensure that every student is celebrated for who they are regardless of race, gender, or sexuality. Outside of school, Shaw is a substitute teacher, a summer camp instructor and also spends free time reading, painting, and going to concerts.

Knight at the Jefferson

A beautiful evening of celebration, dinner, dancing, and generosity was held on March 1, 2024, at the Jefferson Hotel! More than 200 attended and more than $123,000 was raised for BSH. Thank you to everyone who attended, helped, bid, and raised their paddle!

Thank

Laurie and Marchant Callis

Blessed Sacrament Huguenot School 2501 Academy Road Powhatan, VA 23139

www.BSHKNIGHTS.org

PAID PERMIT No. 22 Powhatan, Virginia 23139

DON’T FORGET | MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Hall of Fame Golf Tournament: SEPTEMBER 9

Homecoming Game 2024: SEPTEMBER 27, 7 P.M.

Veterans Day Program: NOVEMBER 11

Giving Tuesday Call-A-Knight: DECEMBER 3

Winter Play: DECEMBER 6 & 7

ALUMNI NEWS & PHOTOS WANTED

Thank you for attending the 40th Annual Beef & Music Festival. Hundreds of supporters showed up on Barham-Sowers Field to celebrate the end of an amazing school year.

Alumni, have you started a new venture, visited classmates, or accomplished something that makes you proud? Do you have good news to share?

Please take a moment to complete the alumni form and submit a class note and photo!

Scan the QR code here: