Classic Magazine 2024

classic THE MAGAZINE OF COVENANT DAY SCHOOL | 2024

FA C U LT Y F E AT U R E

MOREHEAD-CAIN

FOREVER COVENANT

Spiritual Formation Director Phil Davis

From Local Roots to Global Impact

Forever Faithful, Forever Forward

2024 Student Art

GALLERY

CORNELIA KNIGHT 12th Grade

L I L LY H AY E S 3rd Grade

contents

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J O S H U A D E AT O N 7th Grade

AVA FA R M E R 4th Grade

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FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

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FA C U LT Y F E AT U R E

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FROM LOCAL ROOTS TO GLOBAL IMPACT

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P L A N T I N G S E E D S , C U LT I VAT I N G C R E AT I V I T Y

CADEN WIELECHOWSKI 12th Grade

E M I LY C R E E L 10th Grade

BEN BARRIER 5th Grade

SOPHIE FUDERER 7th Grade

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A J O U R N E Y T H R O U G H S PA C E A N D T I M E

20 M O R E T H A N C A PA B L E

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F R O M C R E AT I O N T O C A N VA S

22 A LU M N I S P O T L I G H T

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SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS

24 T H R O U G H T H E Y E A R S

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A SEASON TO REMEMBER

26 F O R E V E R C O V E N A N T

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FROM THE

Head of School Dear Friends and Families of Covenant Day,

As we close the chapter on 2024, our hearts are full of gratitude for the abundant blessings God has poured out on our school community. School life brings challenges and joys alike. Through it all, we have witnessed His faithfulness in profound ways. Whether through the academic, athletic, or artistic milestones our students achieved, the deepened friendships formed, or the moments of growth in faith, wisdom, and service, it is clear that God has been at work among us as we pursue biblical truth. For all these things, we give Him the glory.

Reflecting on the year, I am reminded of Lamentations 3:22-23, “The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” God’s love and faithfulness have been evident in every part of our school’s journey since its founding in 1989. We have seen it in the dedication of our teachers, the joy and curiosity of our students, and the unwavering support of parents. Together, we have built a Christ-centered community, and that foundation has sustained us through every moment.

As we look ahead, our hearts are filled with anticipation to see what God will do next in our school’s story. We desire to see our students thrive spiritually and academically as we seek to be anchored in biblical truth. We are also excited to improve our campus infrastructure through a capital campaign focused on Warner Park so that we can provide the facilities needed to support our excellent programs. In all these things and more, we trust and pray that He will continue to lead and guide us as we seek to “transform hearts and minds for the glory of Jesus Christ.”

Thank you for being part of Covenant Day’s story. Your prayers, partnership, and commitment to our shared vision are deeply appreciated. As we enter a new year, let us remember that God’s plans for us are always good (Romans 8:28) and that His promises are sure (Hebrews 10:23).

May He continue to bless our school, our families, and the work of our hands as we seek to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.

With gratitude and hope,

Mark A. Helmer Head of School

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MS Doulos Days

MS CRE ATE

PA Holiday Market

Matilda , Jr.

HS Choir Performance at Biltmore

Brook stone School Visit

Common Grounds

HS Mock Trial

Varsit y Cross Country

Western NC Supply Drive

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FACULTY FEATURE phil davis

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“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2) At the start of the 2024–2025 school year, Reverend Phil Davis joined Covenant Day’s staff as our first spiritual formation director. Before stepping into this role, Phil served for 19 years at a church in Prague, a church plant of Uptown Church in Charlotte.

Since his arrival, Phil has hit the ground running—coordinating and unifying our JK–12 chapel programming, leading efforts to enhance Bible instruction, developing parent-training initiatives, and more. We recently sat down with Phil to learn more about his background and vision for this exciting new role.

Q: What has surprised you most about this role?

I thought I’d naturally gravitate toward high school students, especially since I have a high schooler myself. However, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoy being around the lower school students and engaging with all the different aspects of the school.

Q: What is your vision for spiritual life at CDS? I would love to develop a spiritual roadmap that provides a framework of what we want our students to believe, know, and do as they mature through lower, middle, and high school. For example, under ‘believe,’ this could mean helping lower school students understand that Jesus is Lord, middle school students grasp that sin is big, but our Savior is bigger, and high school students find their identity in Christ. I’m excited to collaborate with the staff to develop this vision further.

Q: How do you see Covenant Day coming alongside parents in the spiritual formation of their children?

My goal is not to replace or diminish parents’ vital role in their children’s spiritual development at home. Instead, I hope to complement what they teach at home by providing a framework within the classroom context, friendships, and social settings.

Additionally, I plan to offer resources for parents seeking extra guidance or ideas for shepherding their children at home.

Q: Who or what has most influenced your understanding of spiritual formation?

My experience with the mission organization I was formerly part of deeply shaped how I approach building gospel-centered communities, particularly with a focus on the gospel of grace. Emphasizing a life lived by and centered on grace—rather than merely following rules—was a foundational principle for me as a missionary and a pastor.

Q: What has been the most fulfilling part of your role so far?

I love attending Wednesday chapels and worshiping alongside the students and their teachers. Being part of the Christian community here at CDS has been incredibly rewarding, and it’s probably the most gratifying aspect of my role so far.

As we continue pursuing our vision of “transforming hearts and minds for the glory of Jesus Christ,” we are excited to see how the Lord will work through Phil in his role to strengthen our mentorship and discipleship of students, families, and staff.

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FROM LOCAL ROOTS

to global impact

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Ali Slack has been a part of the Covenant Day community since first grade, consistently exemplifying excellence and dedication. During her time at Covenant Day, she held pivotal leadership roles, including student body president, student culture leader, and admissions ambassador. Academically, Ali shined as an honors student, a member of the National Honor Society, a Magna Cum Laude NLE awardee, and an AP Scholar with Distinction.

Her achievements extend beyond the classroom. Ali was recognized as a DAR Good Citizen, inducted into the National Thespian Society, and voted on by her classmates to receive the Timothy Award for Christian character. She participated in the North Carolina Honors Chorus and was named a CS Singer semifinalist. These exceptional accomplishments and distinctions led to Ali’s selection as a Morehead-Cain Scholar at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Established in 1951, the John Motley Morehead Foundation introduced its first Morehead Scholars with the mission of attracting bright young leaders to The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Since then, Morehead Scholars have made significant contributions to society, founding and leading transformational organizations, pioneering change, and holding influential positions in government.

The Morehead-Cain Scholarship, the first merit-based scholarship program in the U.S., offers more than a full-ride scholarship. Recipients gain access to a prestigious cohort and invaluable opportunities, including mentorship, immersive internships, enriching summer experiences, and global travel.

The rigorous seven-month selection process began with nominations from several Covenant Day teachers. It included a detailed 12-page application with six essays, rapid-fire interviews demanding quick and articulate responses, group interviews, discussions with previous scholars, and a fourday campus experience. Ultimately, Ali was chosen to join a distinguished cohort of 73 scholars from 17 states and eight

countries. This past summer, she participated in one of the program’s hallmark experiences: a month-long backpacking trip through Wyoming. Looking ahead, Ali expressed her excitement about representing The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and traveling the world, but most importantly, about representing Christ.

Ali also nominated AP European History Teacher Dr. Brian Jameson for the Morehead-Cain Impact Educator Award, and he was one of just 25 teachers selected from over 400 nominees to receive a grant. Using the funds, Brian fulfilled a lifelong dream of traveling to Europe—a region he had taught about for years but had never visited. In November, he and his family explored iconic sites like Windsor Castle and Oxford, which he described as his favorites.

For Brian, the trip was more than a personal milestone; it was a profound reminder of the transformative power of immersive learning and the boundless nature of knowledge.

“Standing on the coast of the North Sea, seeing the landscape, hearing the stories, and thinking about the rich history—the arrival of boats carrying Christian pilgrims—it was incredible to walk in their footsteps. The experience was completely different from anything you could get from a classroom,” he reflected. The trip reignited his curiosity and affirmed the importance of lifelong learning. Despite years of teaching European history, he was struck by how much there still is to uncover and returned determined to further his own learning. On receiving the award, he added, “This award is a meaningful reminder that what I’m doing as a teacher makes a difference in students’ lives.”

Covenant Day School’s “Portrait of a Graduate” outlines our vision for students as they leave the community equipped to make meaningful contributions to the world. By God’s grace, graduates like Ali embody this vision as they follow Christ, serve others, pursue wisdom, communicate effectively, learn purposefully, and engage the culture. As Ali embarks on this exciting new phase of her journey, we celebrate her remarkable accomplishments and look forward to her future with pride.

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PLANTING SEEDS

cultivating creativity

Middle school students have long enjoyed CREATE, a popular Restoration and Sustainability elective. This year, Restoration and Sustainability introduced CREATE Jr., an exciting new lower school specials class designed to immerse young learners in STEM. Taught by Kim Schoubert, CREATE Jr. inspires curiosity and creativity by engaging students in hands-on exploration of science, technology, engineering, and math—all through a biblical lens.

Recognizing that young students thrive in environments where exploration is encouraged, CREATE Jr. fosters critical thinking and a sense of wonder about God’s creation. “We aim to help students see that innovation and faith go hand in hand,” Kim explained. “Whether we’re building robots or designing experiments, it’s about discovering the beauty and order in the world God has made.”

Central to the class philosophy is the power of “yet.” When students say they don’t know how to do something, Kim gently reminds them, “You don’t know how to do it yet.” This mindset, paired with the encouragement to develop “bubblegum brains” that stretch and grow with every challenge, empowers students to embrace learning and develop a love for STEM. Kim reflected on her teaching moments, “I love seeing their faces light up when they succeed. They come in excited, asking questions, and always leave with a sense of accomplishment.” Her role as a guide fosters confidence, kindness, and a deep connection to God’s Word, creating what she calls “the best learning environment.”

Lessons in CREATE Jr. tie STEM principles to biblical truths. At the start of the year, students learn how God created their minds to think, learn, and innovate. This foundation carries through each activity, from building Charlie Brown’s Thanksgiving table to exploring electricity. In one memorable lesson, students created circuits with strands of Christmas lights, batteries, and conductive materials. The class formed a human circuit, holding hands to test how materials like water, wood, and metal conduct electricity. The activity culminated in a poignant moment as the classroom lights dimmed, “Silent Night” played, and the glowing circuits reminded students of Matthew 5:14: “You are the light of the world.”

Kim sees CREATE Jr. as vital in helping students explore their God-given talents. “We’re planting seeds,” she explained. Along with Restoration and Sustainability Director Jonathan Chin, she hopes this program inspires students to develop their interests further in middle school and eventually use their gifts to bless their communities in high school and beyond.

CREATE Jr. is more than an introduction to STEM; it’s a place where faith and discovery come together. By encouraging curiosity, resilience, and a deeper understanding of God’s creation, this program equips students with the tools to shine as lights in the world today and for years to come.

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a journey through

space&time

“The Florida trip was a high of the year. I would highly recommend the trip because I made lots of amazing memories. The most memorable part was touring around the NASA spaceships. I remember the Saturn V rocket being absolutely massive and so detailed. It hung up on the ceiling above us so we could look at it from anywhere in the museum.” - CDS Student Jack Clark Last February, seventh graders embarked on the inaugural Florida Space Coast Winter Term Trip, a journey that offered a unique blend of space exploration and regional history. Both students and teachers described the experience as unforgettable, filled with meaningful learning and lasting memories.

Shuttle Atlantis. “The way they reveal the shuttle is incredible,” Caroline shared. “You watch a video about the shuttle program’s history, and then the screen clears to reveal the real thing. There were things to climb through, interact with, and touch. It was really exciting for the students.”

“We study space for a whole quarter in seventh-grade science,” Middle School Science Teacher Caroline McDonald explained.

“We talk about space shuttles, satellites, and rovers. I always wished we could bring the students to see the real thing. So I was excited about this trip and the opportunity for kids to see these things up close.”

While the trip’s main focus was the Kennedy Space Center, the group also had the opportunity to explore the historic city of St. Augustine, Florida, the oldest city in the United States.

Students visited iconic sites such as the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort that showed the area’s colonial history. They also toured the Fountain of Youth, a legendary spring that draws visitors worldwide, and the Great Cross. To further see the charming historic district, students enjoyed a trolley tour.

In addition to the hands-on learning experiences, students and teachers appreciated the chance to bond outside of school, play games, have conversations, and create lasting memories together. Caroline and Zach reflected on how the smaller group size brought the trip a unique sense of camaraderie and joy.

The inaugural trip became a reality with 24 eager students, Caroline, fellow Middle School Teacher Zach Turner, and parent chaperones. Together, they set off on an adventure that included a full day at the Kennedy Space Center and two half-days in historic St. Augustine, Florida.

A true highlight of the trip, the Kennedy Space Center provided students with a firsthand experience of the wonders of space exploration. From simulations where they could land a shuttle to driving a Mars rover, the center offered an interactive and immersive experience. The day began with an engaging video presentation, leading to the breathtaking reveal of the Space

Looking ahead to the next trip, Caroline and Zach are excited to share the experience with a new group of 7th graders. They can’t wait to watch the students explore the wonders of the Kennedy Space Center and immerse themselves in the history and culture of St. Augustine, Florida.

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from creation to canvas

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“Art at CDS is learning the joy of living in Christ while enjoying His creations as we create, too.”

At Covenant Day, art is more than a subject—it’s a celebration of God’s creative nature and an opportunity for students to reflect on their identity in Christ. Through vibrant lessons and passionate teaching, students learn to see creativity as a reflection of God’s nature and an opportunity to glorify Him through their work. The art teachers at Covenant Day, each with their unique perspective, demonstrate how God is revealed in art, and this truth shapes the way they inspire and teach their students.

discussions about God’s presence in hard places, reminding students of His faithfulness even in challenges. Through their work, students experience art as a means of spiritual reflection.

Not all of Jackie’s projects have explicit biblical connections, but each encourages students to marvel at God’s creation and develop their creative voice. Whether exploring the intricacies of a flower or shaping clay into something new, students are reminded that they are created in the image of a Creator.

Lower School Art Teacher Jackie Weigel’s passion for Christ, students, and art is evident in all she does and says. Her love for art is deeply rooted in her faith, and she often finds spiritual meaning in the fundamentals of art itself. For example, using the primary colors to illustrate the Trinity, she says, “Yellow represents God the Father, blue the Holy Spirit, and red Christ and His blood shed for us. Even something as simple as colors can point back to our Creator.” For Jackie, art provides a unique opportunity to explore profound theological truths tangibly.

Middle School Art Teacher Sarah Murray builds on this foundation. She sees art as a spiritual event, a reflection of the Imago Dei—the image of God in humanity. She encourages students to “train their eyes to see” God in the world around them, connecting the visual elements of art to the Creator’s design. “Art that reflects truth, beauty, and goodness reflects aspects of God’s character,” she explains.

Even art that lacks these qualities reveals a longing to know God, aligning with humanity’s innate desire for a purpose larger than ourselves.

Rooting her teaching in Scripture, Jackie highlights God’s creative nature revealed throughout the Bible. “‘In the beginning, GOD…’” she quotes from Genesis 1:1, emphasizing God as Elohim, the Creator. She also references Romans 1, where Paul explains that God’s attributes are visible in creation, leaving humanity “without excuse.” Through her lessons, Jackie equips students with artistic techniques and the ability to marvel at God’s handiwork, connecting their creativity to their Creator.

In her classroom, Sarah teaches students to marvel at the genius of creation, emphasizing that art-making mirrors God’s joy in creating the universe. “Creation comes alive with meaning when we are amazed by the genius behind the work,” she says.

Her lessons inspire awe and worship and provide a means to process the human experience. Whether joyful or challenging, creating art becomes an opportunity to reflect God’s presence and draw closer to Him.

Jackie believes that being made in God’s image carries privilege and responsibility. “Since we are created in His image, we can use our imagination to freely create too,” she says, encouraging students to reflect God’s joy in creation. She also draws on God’s critique of His creation in Genesis 1:31, “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” She uses this to inspire self-reflection, teaching students to evaluate their work humbly. This process mirrors the growth and redemption we experience through Christ.

At the high school level, High School Art Teacher Katie Spata encourages students to pause and make space for God through art. She sees creativity as an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and connect with the Lord. “To experience God, we have to make room for Him,” Katie explains, drawing connections between the creative process and the Christian journey of redemption and growth. She invites students to witness the redemptive nature of art through projects that grow and improve as peers and teachers offer constructive feedback. “There are so many parallels to our walk with the Lord,” Katie shares. “We witness the redemption of projects as others speak into them and help us see what we’re missing.”

Through her 17 years of teaching at Covenant Day, Jackie finds joy in making her classroom a space where students can explore their creativity and consider their own unique gifts. She acknowledges that art may only resonate with some students and encourages them to find their God-given passions, whether in academics, athletics, or other areas. This perspective fosters an environment of discovery where students feel safe to explore and grow.

Jackie’s projects often invite students to reflect on their faith.

This year’s first assignment, “The Rose of Sharon,” prompted

At the heart of Covenant Day’s arts program is a celebration of God’s creativity and a call to reflect His glory through our own. As Jackie puts it, “Art at CDS is learning the joy of living in Christ while enjoying His creations as we create, too.” It’s a sentiment echoed by the entire art department, from the lower school to the high school, who together help students see that the arts are a gift and a way to reflect God’s image and bring Him glory in every brushstroke, sculpture, and sketch.

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SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS

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In just three years at Covenant Day, Varsity Boys Basketball Coach Michael Laney has transformed the boys’ basketball program into a formidable force within the NCISAA, CISAA, and Charlotte Metro Region. Reflecting on the team’s historic season, Coach Laney shared insights into the program’s growth, the team culture, and the path forward.

Michael joined the Covenant Day coaching staff after a meeting with the athletic administration, inspired by their Christcentered vision for the program. “I was eager to help grow and develop the team, and I’m proud of how far we’ve come in a relatively short time,” he said.

“These achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved,” Michael noted.

Key players Elijah Green, now at William Peace University, and Michael Marcus Jr., now at Appalachian State, were the standout leaders last season. The work ethic, commitment, and leadership by example that they displayed set the tone for the rest of the team. Their dedication to the program made a tremendous impact, and the team followed their lead.

The program reached new heights last season, achieving its best performance in terms of wins and development. Michael shared, “Our goal is to continue that upward trajectory and build on our success so far.”

The coaching staff also played a critical role. “I believe we have the best coaching staff in the state,” Michael said. “Our coaches do a fantastic job of bridging the gap between the players and the coaching staff, creating a supportive environment where everyone feels valued. Their commitment to developing the players on and off the court is a huge reason for the program’s success.”

Last season was marked by resilience and unity, significantly impacting how the team approached each game and practice.

“The boys were incredibly resilient and mentally tough,” said Michael. “They played for each other and competed with a sense of pride that would make the CDS community proud.”

Last season was a big step forward for the basketball program.

As the team enters a new season, the player’s mindset remains strong: “Prepare to win.” Their focus is on consistent improvement, individually and as a team, and that mindset has been key to their success.

The team’s record-breaking 22-8 finish included a first-ever appearance in the Final Four in the state tournament, a milestone for the program. Another highlight was breaking the 20-win mark for the first time in Covenant Day history.

As the Covenant Day basketball program grows, its commitment to excellence shines brightly on and off the court.

With a strong culture and talented leadership, the future holds great promise for this rising program.

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For Varsity Boys Soccer Coach Julius Klohr, the journey back to Covenant Day has been deeply fulfilling.

A Covenant Day “lifer” and collegiate athlete at Houghton University, his path included a stint as a graduate assistant coach and now a role with the Charlotte Eagles. “The Lord opened the doors for me to return to Covenant Day, and I’m overjoyed to be coaching here,” he reflects.

Over the years, Covenant Day has cultivated a rich soccer tradition. With 19 collegiate players, multiple conference championships, and a 1A state title in 2005, the program boasts a legacy of excellence. However, this year was a milestone as the team advanced further than ever in the 4A state playoffs, finishing as state runner-up.

The team’s success is rooted in its strong culture. Guided by core values of being Christ-centered, fostering brotherhood, maintaining commitment, and pursuing excellence, the players embrace a spirit of joy and accountability. “This group was a tight-knit band of brothers who consistently competed in a Christ-like manner,” Julius explains.

In addition to Julius, the coaching staff comprises Jonathan Ramos and Walter Gomez, both full-time staffers with the Charlotte Eagles sports ministry. They shared, “Our mission aligns perfectly with CDS’s focus on equipping students to be salt and light for God’s glory.” Together, they set three objectives for the season: • Point players to Christ in every activity, from pre-game meals to practices and games • Recreate a college-level playing environment with high standards and intentional practices • Foster holistic development, meeting players where they are and helping them grow both on and off the field This approach created a competitive and joyful environment, propelling the team to the state final.

Captains Sean Freace, Hayes Wright, Jacob Burgess, and the entire senior and junior classes anchored the team’s leadership. Their influence was pivotal. “We wouldn’t have had the season we did without every player stepping up at key moments,” Julius says.

The team shattered barriers this fall, becoming the first in Covenant Day history to advance past the 4A state quarterfinals and into the semifinals and finals. Finishing with a 13-6 overall record, the team achieved numerous individual accolades, including: • 2 NCISAA All-State players • 1 NCSCA All-State player • 5 NCSCA All-Region players • 2 First-Team and 1 Second-Team All-Conference players Though proud of this year’s achievements, the coaching staff is already preparing for the future. Plans include a spring lower school boys’ soccer clinic led by varsity players, a rigorous offseason training program, and opportunities for team bonding to reinforce values and set goals. “We’re proud of what we accomplished but not satisfied with the result. We’re building for an even stronger future,” Julius affirms.

Julius offers heartfelt thanks to the seniors: “Thank you for your leadership and commitment to this program. We wouldn’t be where we are today without each and every one of you.” As the Covenant Day soccer program looks to the future, the foundation of faith, brotherhood, and excellence promises even greater things ahead.

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A SEASON TO

remember

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more than

capable

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Within the walls of Covenant Day, students approach academics with diligence and passion. However, this goes beyond what is written on paper or studied in a textbook. Meaning and relevance emerge when classroom instruction is put into action. Covenant Day’s Restoration and Sustainability program seeks to offer hands-on learning experiences that help students discover their strengths and build confidence outside the classroom.

Last year, Cohen Sears and AnneMillen Tucker had a unique opportunity to collaborate with Cakeable for their senior project. Their goal was to promote awareness and inclusivity for individuals with intellectual disabilities, a goal that aligned seamlessly with Cakeable’s mission. As a nonprofit organization focused on workforce development, Cakeable provides vital vocational training for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This past spring, the organization celebrated a significant milestone with the opening of its brick-and-mortar café and bakery, an achievement made partly possible by Cohen and AnneMillen’s valuable contributions.

Cohen and AnneMillen drew upon their experience with Restoration and Sustainability’s student-led and run coffee shop, Common Grounds, to offer Cakeable insights in recipe testing, menu pricing, and specific techniques, like frothing. They also volunteered at food and drink stations and helped with both the soft and grand openings of Cakeable. The two students said the entire process was very collaborative. AnneMillen said their mindset was, “Let’s work together to create something way better than what any of us could have done by ourselves.”

“Cakeable” plays off the word capable and is a reminder that everyone is capable of achieving success. In addition to their planning and logistical support, Cohen and AnneMillen worked alongside the individuals with disabilities. AnneMillen shared, “We got to meet a lot of people who worked in the coffee shop and create relationships with them. We got to know them, and they got to know us. As they say in their mission statement, they emphasize unity and making community available for everybody. It was really rewarding.

They gave us more than we could have ever given them.”

The impact of Cohen and AnneMillen’s work extends beyond their graduation from Covenant Day. As the school year ended, they began incorporating underclassmen into their project, aiming to pass their work on.

These students received training at the coffee shop, where they learned to adapt to new environments and collaborate with different people.

As Cohen and AnneMillen reflected on the experience, they highlighted the immense impact it had not only on others but also on themselves. They honed their communication skills, learned the importance of seeking support, and discovered how dedication and perseverance can drive meaningful change. Their work with Cakeable showcased the transformative power of collaboration and empathy, leaving a legacy that inspires new students to serve, learn, and grow. Ultimately, their work is a testament that Christian education goes beyond preparing for a career; it equips us to be salt and light for God’s glory.

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

travis hutchinson

What are folks up to these days? Read alumni notes by scanning the QR code or visiting covenantday.org/alumninotes.

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Travis Hutchinson, a Covenant Day alumni who attended from 6th to 12th grade and graduated in 2012, has pursued a path of serving others through ministry. His journey reflects a deep commitment to his faith and using his gifts to further the Kingdom. In this interview, Travis shares about his job, how his time at Covenant Day shaped his calling, and the challenges and joys he has experienced in ministry.

Q. Tell us about your journey since graduating from Covenant Day. What path did you take to get to where you are today?

When I graduated from CDS, I spent four years at Covenant College. I graduated with an economics degree in 2016 and immediately started working in the corporate world. I spent three years there before I felt the Lord calling me to seminary. I then got my MDiv from Covenant Seminary in St. Louis before taking a job with Reformed University Fellowship (RUF).

Q. Could you describe your current job role and responsibilities?

I am the RUF Campus Minister at Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). In a nutshell, my job is to love students on these campuses, reach them with the gospel, and equip them to serve the church for the rest of their lives.

Q. What challenges have you faced in ministry, and what aspects have been most fulfilling for you?

One difficult thing about ministry is that most people change slowly. They gradually grow over time, meaning you might only see the fruits of your labor years down the road. There are very few “instant gratification” moments. This might sound contradictory, but what is most fulfilling is when a student has a “light bulb moment” where something clicks, and you can immediately see a change in them. These moments include seeing students come to know Jesus for the first time and witnessing students grow in other areas of their Christian life.

Q. In what ways did your time at Covenant Day help shape and prepare you for your current career?

My time at CDS gave me the tools to thrive as a college student. I felt academically prepared for college and through extra-curricular opportunities (e.g., sports, etc.) I also felt socially prepared for college, which was extremely important. In a world where students are less and less socially prepared for college, I am grateful CDS provided me with opportunities to learn how to relate to my peers and operate in a cooperative learning environment. Further, and most importantly, CDS instilled in me a gospel framework through which I could view life, something I now try to instill in the students I work with daily.

Q. Who significantly impacted you from your time at Covenant Day? Scott Dillon, along with Joe and Robi Rego, stand out as individuals who significantly influenced me. They loved me well during my time at Covenant Day, and I’m deeply grateful for their role in shaping my life and faith.

Q. What is your advice to current Covenant Day students?

You are incredibly blessed. You go to a great school with access to great resources and opportunities that not all students get access to, and you should thank God every day for that. Second, don’t waste the opportunities God has given you by merely chasing after money and prestige in life. It’s not worth it. You can take the gifts God has given you and use them for yourself, which will be incredibly unfulfilling, or you can take them and use them for God’s glory and the advancement of His Kingdom, which is more fulfilling than anything money can buy. My advice is to choose the latter. Whether you end up as a business leader, politician, parent, or pastor, strive to love others with the love that Christ has shown you.

Q. What is a verse that brings you encouragement?

Colossians 3:1-4, “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.”

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THROUGH THE YEARS

2005 The first high school opened (current middle school)

a history of generosity Since opening our doors in 1989, Covenant Day families have generously shared their time, talents, prayers, and financial gifts to support our mission.

We are profoundly grateful for the supporters who have made Covenant Day a philanthropic priority over the years, investing in our mission, students, and teachers. God has abundantly blessed their faithfulness, and we are filled with anticipation for all He has in store for Covenant Day in the years to come.

1991

2000 Lions Theater addition built in the Wilcox C Building

Wilcox C Building was built as the first middle school

1989 With the blessing and generosity of Christ Covenant Church and our founding families, Covenant Day opened its doors with classes in the B Building

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1999

2004

First development at Warner Park named in memory of Anne Warner, Covenant Day’s first athletic director

Tennis courts constructed at the corner of Covenant Church Lane and Hwy 51

2013 First Butterfly Garden planted behind the A Building

2024 2020

With gifts from the Race to Raise campaign and other donors, Covenant Field/ Davis Track opened

Innovate 2020 Campaign was launched to provide tuition assistance during COVID

Addition to the Fireplace Room and Academic Resources suite in the Wilcox C Building

2011

2023

Warner Park upgrades made, including baseball, soccer, and practice fields

Introduction of the Lions Fund

Addition of tennis court pavilion

2025 2016 Through generous giving to the Legacy campaign, the current high school building opened New lower school playground equipment was installed on the current playground

Planned contruction of new band and choir room addition to Wilcox C Building will begin Forever Covenant Campaign - Phase 1 Warner Park

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CAPITAL CAMPAIGN UPDATE

forever faithful, forever forward

The Forever Covenant capital campaign offers us an opportunity to invest in the enduring mission of Covenant Day School, where we remain rooted in our Christian principles while striving for excellence in every aspect of student life. By developing Warner Park, we can provide an athletic facility that meets the needs of our current students and serves as a key element for future generations and the Covenant Day community as a whole. We are just beginning to seek gifts for this exciting plan and look forward to sharing in 2025 how our entire community can participate. Together, we have a unique opportunity to further Covenant Day’s legacy of excellence and deepen our commitment to transforming hearts and minds for the glory of Jesus Christ. For more information or to learn how you can contribute, contact development@covenantday.org.

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800 Fullwood Lane Matthews, North Carolina 28105 (704) 847-2385