S U M M E R
2 0 1 6
Community News
M A G A Z I N E
Summer 2016
1
Campus Feature
Brent Bell Head of School Hope Jones Director of ELA-8 Matthew Peer Director of Upper School Derek Perkins Director of Admission Joe Montgomery Chief Advancement Officer Julie (Wilson) Lucas (‘97) Director of Development Vicki Vincent Director of Alumni Relations Tannika Wester Director of Communications Editor, Darlington Magazine Luke Chaffin Content Manager Paige Hamil Marketing Coordinator RuthAnne Anderson Kelly Moore (‘95) Paul O'Mara Photographic Contributors Darlington Magazine is published two times a year by the Communication Office of Darlington School, and is distributed to those who have shown a continued interest in Darlington. Darlington School, a nonprofit organization, does not discriminate in admission because of race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, and maintains non-discriminatory policies throughout its operation.
1014 Cave Spring Road Rome, Georgia 30161 706-235-6051 (phone) 706-232-3600 (fax) alumni@darlingtonschool.org www.darlingtonschool.org
On the Cover: Chandler Bagby (’25) portrays Benjamin Franklin at the ThirdGrade Wax Museum, which – as part of Darlington’s honor celebration this year – featured a variety of honorable characters from history. Contents: Rhett McDurmon (‘19) pledges to live by Darlington’s Honor Code as he signs the Honor Book during a special ceremony at the start of the school year. Honor Council officers Will Crawford (‘16), Milan Rane (‘16), Olivia Drake (‘17) and Ivy Brandon (‘16) surround him in support.
2
Darlington Magazine
UM C oSm mMuE nR i2t0y1 6N e w s
Contents 2 Community News 22 Class Notes 36 In Memoriam Dr. Joe Stukes (’44)
Campus Features 7 David Powell Road to Retirement
10 Q&A With Honor Council Presidents 12 Craig Schmidt Road to Retirement
13 Celebrating a Century of Honor 20 Honorable Heroes History comes alive at Wax Museum
21 Stephanie Fleming Road to Retirement
Campus Views 8 RUMPUS 18 Light the Lake Alumni Profiles 24 Hank Linginfelter (’79) A life lived in honor
27 Dr. Dan Garrett (’82)
The satisfaction of ‘doing good work’
29 Mara Evans (’91) Living life in the light
32 Jennie Wright (’99, LD ’16) Living by the Golden Rule
Summer 2016
1
Campus Feature
FROM THE
Blood drive honors son of faculty member
As a boy growing up in Virginia, I was a fan of Thomas Jefferson. I was fortunate to visit his home, Monticello, on multiple occasions. The house and grounds were a testament to his energy, his intellectual curiosity, and his desire to make the world a better place. As a Founding Father of our nation, Jefferson’s contributions are unquestioned. As I developed my love of history, I also became interested in what he had to say on a variety of subjects. One of my favorite quotes of Thomas Jefferson’s reminds me of Darlington School’s Honor System. “In matters of principle, stand like a rock; in matters of taste, swim with the current. Give up money, give up fame, give up science, give up the earth itself and all it contains, rather than do an immoral act. And never suppose, that in any possible situation, or under any circumstances, it is best for you to do a dishonorable thing. Whenever you are to do a thing, though it can never be known but to yourself, ask yourself how would you act were all the world looking at you, and act accordingly.” This issue of Darlington Magazine celebrates the 100th anniversary of the student-created Honor Code at Darlington. While styles have changed, our principle of “Honor Above Everything” has not. Honor and integrity are cornerstones of our school community and the Darlington experience. We know this from our students’
Thirty-two people participated in a March blood drive held in honor of Matt Gordon, the son of Cindy Gordon, administrative manager in Darlington’s Advancement Office. The Model High School graduate was on his way home one night in November when he fell asleep at the wheel. His truck veered across the oncoming lane and into a deep ditch, where he struck a concrete drainage pipe. Matt was ultimately taken to Erlanger Medical Center in Chattanooga, Tenn., where he spent three weeks in the trauma intensive care unit. He then spent another three weeks in the ICU at Shepherd Center in Atlanta. “Because Matt had to make so much use of the blood bank during all of this, we really understand now what it means for everyone to give,” said Cindy. “Had it not been for others’ donations, the blood just wouldn’t have been available to him. It is very important to have those resources in place.” In total, Matt has had at seven surgeries since the accident. He began physical therapy at Shepherd in February and was released in March to begin outpatient therapy at home in Rome. “The fact that the Darlington Community wanted to honor Matt and our family is very touching – to him especially,” added Cindy. “Since he was not a Darlington student, it is that much more meaningful that everyone here cares so much about him.”
Head of School
interactions with one another during their time on campus and beyond, in the mentoring relationships that develop between students and teachers, and in the way our alumni conduct themselves in their communities around the world. The development of character in boys was a founding tenet of Mr. John Paul Cooper in his creation of the school in 1905. This expressed commitment to the development of the whole person has continued to be at the forefront of the student experience throughout Darlington’s 111-year history. Thank you for being a part of this tradition and for allowing Darlington to “stand like a rock” in our commitment to honor and integrity.
Brie Bishop (’18) gives blood in honor of Matt Gordon.
2
Darlington Magazine
Community News
Georgia House recognizes Darlington Honor System Rep. Katie Dempsey (R-Rome) presents Honor Council President Hunter Manning (’16) and school representatives with a resolution recognizing and celebrating the 100th anniversary of Darlington’s Honor System in February. As he accepted the resolution on behalf of the school, Manning spoke to members of the Georgia House of Representatives about what the Honor Code means to him and how it has shaped his life. Forgette named Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow Media Arts Director Adrienne Forgette is one of 35 educators from the United States and Canada to be named a 2016 Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow. This competitive professional development opportunity provides an immersive geographic learning experience for teachers to share with their classrooms and communities. “Teaching about the world makes students more empathetic, which is one of the traits I think is most important to develop if we hope to create compassionate individuals who think deeply about how their actions impact the world around them,” said Forgette.
“My life is dedicated to creating educational opportunities for students to become passionate, informed global citizens.” Later this year, she will embark on a 10-day Lindblad voyage aboard the National Geographic Endeavour to the Galápagos Islands for a one-of-akind field experience, accompanied by Lindblad-National Geographic expedition experts. In advance, she traveled to the National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington to participate in hands-on workshops covering photography and outreach. “I hope my stories of the landscape and people I encounter on the
Adrienne Forgette
expedition will inspire my students to go out and discover parts of the world currently unknown to them,” added Forgette.
Two earn state wrestling titles Dalton Blankenship (’19) and Colton Woods (’19) each won their division’s title for Class AA at the GHSA Traditional State Championships at the Infinite Energy Arena in Duluth, Ga., in February. “Colton’s quickness and fakes allow him to often be a step ahead of opponents, and Dalton’s length comes in handy in the smallest weight class,” said head coach Kelly McDurmon. Both boys entered the competition as No. 1 seeds. Blankenship won the 106-pound title with a 6-5 decision over
Summer 2016
Social Circle’s Josh Engstrom, while Woods took a 5-1 win over Bremen’s Keegan Smith in the 113-pound weight class. “Our goal is to outwork everyone,” added McDurmon. “We have that same mentality everywhere. So, before I get off the bus with my boys, I ask what we are there to do and they say, ‘Outwork everyone.’” The Tigers scored 90 points overall finishing fourth in the team standings for Class AA.
Dalton Blankenship (’19)
Colton Woods (’19)
3
Cam pm u smFuenai tt uy r N e ews Co
Warp Trio entertains, works with students Violinist Josh Henderson of the New York City-based Warp Trio performs in Morris Chapel in February as part of the school’s 21st Century Artist Program. Also comprised of pianist Mikael Darmanie and cellist Ju Young Lee, the trio has been described as part chamber music ensemble, part rock band, part art project. Together, they incorporate interdisciplinary collaborations and eclectic programming into their own unique impressions of different classical selections, pop music and improv, creating an unmatched concert experience. During their time at Darlington, the Warp Trio also performed a concert for the greater community and worked with students in a variety of instrumental classes. Annual lectureship features renowned sports psychologist
Dr. Gio Valiante
Dr. Gio Valiante, sports psychologist, author and educator, was the 13th speaker in the annual Class of 1953 Lectureship Series in April. His lecture was titled “The Excellent Pursuit of Excellence.” “This was an incredible opportunity for our students to connect with someone who has an exciting career in the sports world,” said Vicki Vincent, director of alumni relations. “So much of what you learn by playing sports is transferable beyond the realm of athletics, and we appreciate Dr. Valiante sharing his insights with our young people.”
Valiante, who received his Ph.D. from Emory University, is a professor at Rollins College and author of bestsellers “Fearless Golf” and “Golf Flow.” In his career, he has served as mental game consultant to the game’s best, including U.S. Open champion Justin Rose, Players champion Matt Kuchar, Davis Love III, Camilo Villegas and many others. With his players winning over 55 PGA Tour events in the past 15 years, it is easy to see why Valiante has been named Sports Psychologist of the Year by The Golf Channel; Top 40 Under 40 to Influence the Game
of Golf by Golf Magazine; and No. 2 Sports Psychologist in the World by Golf Digest. He has also been featured in The Financial Times, The New York Times and Sports Illustrated; on “Good Morning America;” and on CNBC and ESPN. In addition to coaching athletes, Valiante coaches business leaders and others in the area of ultimate human performance. The Class of 1953 Lectureship Series was established in 2003 to commemorate the class’s 50th reunion.
Georgia Dugout Club honors Shadday (’16), Harrison (’01)
Jay Shadday (’16) and Kent Harrison (’01, LD ’15)
4
Jay Shadday (’16) and former baseball coach and associate athletic director Kent Harrison (’01, LD ’15) were recognized by the Georgia Dugout Club at the Coach’s Clinic kickoff in January. Shadday, the Tigers’ longtime pitcher and Georgia Tech commit, took home the Class AA Baseball Player of the Year honor, while Harrison was named Class AA Baseball Co-Coach of the Year. “The unique thing about Jay is that he isn’t a one-dimensional player – he
is an unbelievable competitor at the mound, at the plate and in the field,” said Matt Peal, assistant baseball coach. “Kent’s best quality is that he is an excellent motivator. He gets kids to believe in themselves and to play to their ability level, and sometimes above it. The honors were certainly well earned by both.” It was in Harrison’s final season at Darlington and Shadday’s junior year that the varsity baseball team finished
as runner-up to Wesleyan School in the state championship – a season eclipsed only by Darlington’s Class AA state title win in 1984. As a result of the hard work and effort he put forth last year, Shadday was also named to the Dugout Club’s preseason All-State team.
Darlington Magazine
Community News
Heart of the Community honors Darlington’s Chaffin Luke Chaffin, content manager in the Communication Office, received the Heart of the Community Young Heart Award at the 30th Annual “Affair of the Heart” gala in February. “The Darlington Community is so proud of Luke,” said Tannika Wester, director of communications. “One of the things I was most excited about when we hired him last year was his involvement in our community. He goes above and beyond to make Rome and Floyd County better. Luke truly embraces the idea of ‘Service Beyond Self’ in his own life, which makes him a great role model for our students.”
A native of Douglasville, Ga., Chaffin attended Georgia State University in Atlanta, where he received a degree in broadcast journalism. A graduate of Leadership Rome XXXI, his community involvements include the Rome Area Heritage Foundation, the Downtown Development Authority, the Free Clinic of Rome, the Rome Historic Preservation Commission, the Between the Rivers Association, Rome Area Council for the Arts, and Rome First United Methodist Church, among others. He also works with Darlington’s Servant Leadership Program.
20 participate in Leadership Darlington Twenty alumni representing seven states, the nation’s capital and five cities in Georgia participated in the school’s Leadership Darlington program in February. “Leadership Darlington is a prestigious and competitive opportunity for alumni to engage with their alma mater and school leaders on an in-depth, personal level,” said Vicki Vincent, director of alumni relations. “The program is designed to increase the number of alumni actively engaged with the school and develop the next generation of Darlington’s leadership.” Members of the Leadership Darlington Class of 2016 include Chris Peacock (’78) of San Jose, Calif.; Rob Cheshire (’83) of Austin, Texas; Julia (Barton) Pollard (’86) of Rome; Robert Worrill (’89) of Savannah, Ga.; Marlon Worrill (’91) of Atlanta; Jim Barr Coleman (’93) of Wilmington, N.C.; Gordon Hight (’94) of Victor, Idaho; Chrissy Robertson (’94) of Smyrna, Ga.; Nancy (Martin) Koen (’96) of Dallas, Texas; Mary (Hight) Sawhill (’96) of Smyrna, Ga.; Michael Gordon (’99) of Marietta, Ga.; Amanda Penn-O’Toole (’99) of Laramie, Wyo.; Jennie Wright (’99) of Washington; Sarah Rhodes (’02) of Atlanta; Sarah Mooney (’03) of Atlanta; Michael Jones (’04) of San Francisco, Calif.; Mary Kate (Watters)
Summer 2016
Boston (’05) of Nashville, Tenn.; Kristen Rachels (’05) of Atlanta; William Richardson (’05) of Rome; and Kelly O’Mara (’08) of Austin, Texas. Over two days, participants obtained an integrated view of Darlington, including the internal and external forces that affect the school’s direction and the challenges it faces. They also experienced an interchange with senior administrators and participated in discussions about the future. The program featured a keynote address by Jere Drummond (’57), past chairman of Darlington’s Board of Trustees and retired vice chair of BellSouth Corp. To apply for Leadership Darlington 2017, contact alumni@ darlingtonschool.org.
Kristen Rachels (’05) receives her Leadership Darlington plaque from life trustee Jere Drummond (’57), Head of School Brent Bell and Board Chair Linda (Grizzard) Owens (’79).
Other Heart of the Community recipients with a connection to Darlington include Board of Governor’s honoree Dr. Sidney Bell, a former trustee and parent of alumni; Thornwood alumna and parent of alumni Christa (Cline) Jackson (’73T); and current parent Allison Watters. Elaina Beeman, Tonya Davis and Vargo Orthodontics also received awards. The Heart of the Community awards are sponsored each year by Redmond Regional Medical Center and produced by the Heart of the Community Foundation.
Courtesy of Ashley Phillips Photography
Lauren Sklar, chair of the Heart of the Community Foundation, presents Luke Chaffin with the Young Heart Award.
Annual event highlights diversity of school community
Bradley Smith (’23) learns more about the Colombian culture from Daniela Tomaselli (’19) during the International Fair in February. This year, visitors had the opportunity to “travel to” the Bahamas, Canada, China, Finland, Germany, Guatemala, Haiti, India, Italy, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Thailand and the United States, while never leaving the Johnson Field House.
5
Cam pm u smFuenai tt uy r N e ews Co
Seniors give back through STEM Field Day
High-achievers earn full-tuition Honor Scholarships Incoming freshmen Kacey Barnett of Rome and Stuart Gakio of Atlanta have been named the recipients of the 2016 Darlington Honor Scholarships. This full-tuition award is given to one freshman day applicant and one freshman boarding applicant each year. “The Honor Scholarship is the most prestigious merit award offered by Darlington, and we are proud of Kacey and Stuart for the countless hours of hard work and dedication that earned them this achievement,” said Derek Perkins, director of admission. “I am confident that each of these students is a great fit for Darlington and will make long-lasting contributions to our school community. I look forward to welcoming them to campus this fall.” Barnett attended Armuchee Middle School, where she was president of the Beta Club and a member of the quiz
bowl and math teams. Additionally, she participated in the Duke Talent Identification Program, earning state and national recognition, and plays both basketball and soccer. Gakio attended Cliff Valley School, where he played soccer and twice won the school spelling bee. He enjoys volunteering in his community and participated in both Duke TIP and the Vanderbilt Program for Talented Youth. Established in 2011 as a result of Darlington’s Second Century Campaign, the Honor Scholarship covers tuition, room and board, books, and any other materials and fees. It is renewable annually for the length of the student’s career at Darlington as long as certain requirements are met. For more information, contact admission@ darlingtonschool.org.
Kacey Barnett
Stuart Gakio
The artwork of several students and one faculty member was featured in the third annual Rome Community HeART Project, which celebrates National Heart Month in February. A collaboration between the Rome Area Council for the Arts (RACA) and Redmond Regional Medical Center, the Rome Community HeART Project showcased 15 large hearts and five strings of garland this year. “We really found out that public art offers a sense of connection to the community,” said Rainey Campbell, RACA executive director. “This project celebrates local artists and raises awareness for heart health.
The combination of those is really wonderful.” Mary Anna Fricks (’18) and Upper School art teacher Kathy O’Mara each used a medium of their choice to decorate a large cement heart, while Jennifer Moore’s seventh- and eighthgrade advanced art students decorated a string of heart garland. “We always enjoy seeing the work of our talented Tigers out there in the community for all to appreciate,” said Kim Tunnell, Darlington’s director of fine arts. “We’re very thankful that Rome and Floyd County continues to demonstrate an understanding of the importance of the arts.”
Lawson Sumner (’16) helps lead the robotics station at a special STEM Field Day at the Boys & Girls Club West, hosted by the Class of 2016 in March as their senior service project. Throughout the day, the children and their Darlington buddies rotated through a variety of fun science, sports, art and music stations. Kudos to the Class of 2016 for modeling “Service Beyond Self” in such an impactful way! HeART Project features Darlington artists
Photo by Kelly Moore (‘95)
Jennifer Moore’s advanced art students decorated one of five strings of heart garland.
6
Darlington Magazine
Community News
Road to Retirement
David Powell
After a 35-year career at the Lakeside, it might surprise you to know that Academic Dean David Powell didn’t set out to be an educator. After graduating from Berry College and earning his M.Div. from Emory, he spent seven years as a United Methodist minister before making the career change that ultimately led him to Darlington. “I came to Darlington first because I was changing careers and needed a new direction,” Powell explained. “I first heard of [the school] from a college professor, Dr. Alex Whitaker. He was a multi-talented man who had great fun in his work. I remember that he used to write minutes from the faculty meetings in the style of famous authors, for instance. He was irreverent in the most creative sense of the word. He had spent several years teaching at Darlington and spoke about his time here with such fondness. “I’d also had the privilege of working with several Darlington faculty, especially Jack Summerbell, whom I admired greatly,” Powell continued. “He invited me to apply for a position teaching Bible, and that’s how I got started. I discovered a real love for teaching after I started doing it.” Two years later, then-headmaster Brad Gioia convinced Powell to begin a master’s degree program at the Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College in Vermont. “There, I got to know the most expert and passionate faculty I’ve ever encountered,” Powell said. “At Bread Loaf, I began to believe that teaching English and directing plays was the most important job in the world. That sense of purpose has remained with me.” Since coming to Darlington in 1981, Powell has taught a variety of English courses and held the distinguished title of Thatcher Chair of English from 1992 until he was named academic dean in 2009. He has also taught Psychology
Summer 2016
and Theater, and directed the school’s theater productions from 1981 until 2005. “I have always been interested in the arts – music, drama and literature – and pursued those interests both in and out of school,” said Powell, who lists his work with The Darlington Players among the things he is most proud of in his career, along with the shaping of the school’s robust professional development program made possible by the Second Century Campaign. In his 35-year tenure, Powell has taught thousands, frequently developing lifelong friendships that remain today. For this dedication to his profession and to students, he has received numerous honors and awards. “I get great pleasure from watching a student who never thought of himself as a scholar get excited about an idea, or a student who thought herself below average discover she just did something smart, or an athlete or artist get a fire in the belly to do his or her best,” Powell said. “As a teacher, I work at finding the accessible challenge, the task which is just over the student’s head, but within reach of a stretch. A teacher works at
creating a climate in which students feel safe making such a reach. “When students discover they can do things they didn’t know they could do, they take a step toward intellectual independence,” he continued. “Developing this independence should be an educator’s goal – to encourage students to think for and challenge themselves.” He and his wife, Katherine, have also watched their sons, Daniel (’08) and Nick (’20), soak up the Darlington experience. “Darlington has given both Daniel and Nick many opportunities in the fine arts and challenged them as writers,” Powell said. In his retirement, the longtime educator looks forward to spending more time writing fiction and playing guitar, but adds that he will miss daily contact with people ages 3 to 70. “I will miss my students and colleagues, who have impacted my career in every way possible,” he said. “I wouldn’t have stayed for 35 years if it hadn’t been for the people I got to work with.”
7
CCaam mppuuss VFieeawt u r e
RUMPUS Head of School Brent Bell cameos as T-Pain during Lip Sync.
Moser’s Tigger Frix (’18) and Regester’s Maddie Bou (’18) race to build s’mores at a RUMPUS Relay station.
Moser House cheers as the Tigers defeat Bowdon 57-44.
It only happens once a year. Each January, day and boarding students representing each of Darlington’s six campus houses vie for the coveted title of RUMPUS champion during three days of intense competition. This y ear’s play ers included the Cooper House Egypti a ns, the Sum merbell House Greasers, the Regester House Tourists, the 101 Dalmatians of Thornwood House, Neville With Attitude, and Moser League Baseball. House teams made spirit banners and donned creative costumes as students and faculty ate odd food combinations during The Hunger Games, racked their brains during DAR Feud, took center stage during Lip Sync, pushed themselves to their physical limit during the final challenge – The Gauntlet, and so much more.
Summerbell’s Sam Tackeberry (’18) attempts a field goal during The Gauntlet.
Summerbell’s Russell Shealy (’18) channels Napoleon Dynamite during Lip Sync.
Moser’s Jack Albertson (’18) competes in the Hunger Games eating contest.
The boys of Summerbell House were named back-to-back RUMPUS champs and, as always, the highly anticipated weekend promoted teamwork, unity, sportsmanship, fun and laughs as the Darlington Community came together as a family. Regester House’s Gauntlet team completes the final station of the race.
8
Darlington Magazine
Community News
Makkie Obiakor (’18) and the ladies of Cooper House take center stage at Lip Sync.
Moser House’s Joseph Ingram (’18) rounds a corner in the Build It race.
The boys of Summerbell House show off their Greasers banner.
Thornwood House’s Gauntlet team works to complete a maze. Dylan Paracka (’16) and the boys of Neville House cheer as scores are read.
Ivy Brandon (’16) leads his peers in a spontaneous singing of the Alma Mater.
Summerbell’s Rhett McDurmon (’19) pulls AJ Duggan (’19) in the Build It race.
Cooper’s Alex Gardner (’18), at right, tags Leonie Lupp (’19) in the RUMPUS Relay.
Hillary Tunnell (’18) and the Regester-Moser “dream team” win Dodgeball.
The boys of Neville House celebrate after winning a round of DAR Feud. The ladies of Thornwood House pose for a quick photo after the basketball games. Summer 2016
9
Campus Feature
Q&A with Honor Council Presidents Honor Council President Hunter Manning (’16) and Bill Brewster (’66), who served in the same role 50 years ago, respond to a series of questions regarding Darlington’s commitment to honor and the impact it has had on their lives. How did you first come to attend Darlington and what made you want to be a student here? Hunter: I came to Darlington in the seventh grade. My two siblings and I transferred the same year, 2010. Having the opportunity to attend school here was tremendous. It was an opportunity that everyone in my family believed was the right choice. Personally, my excitement about being a Darlington student was rooted in the prospect of being able to involve myself in the many programs offered. From the renowned academic rigor, to the successful athletic and fine arts programs, I was excited about everything that being a Darlington student encompassed. Bill: My brother, Ed, who graduated from Cedartown High School, came to Darlington for a post-graduate year. He was so impressed and with that year that he told my parents, “Bill needs to go to Darlington.” His PG year, I was a seventh-grader at East Rome Junior High. I got involved in athletics and got to know kids my age that went to Darlington. I could see in those kids something that I liked and something I wanted to be part of. I just wanted to be around those types of students.
What does “Honor Above Everything” mean to you? Hunter: That is a weighty phrase. If you take the word “everything” seriously, “Honor Above Everything” means that the truth and trustworthiness must be upheld, no matter the consequences. Honor truly is the ultimate standard of character. I say this phrase often, but
10
it really is true. Willingness to stand for what is right, no matter the cost, reveals a person’s true character.
since then, I have grown tremendously as I have seen firsthand the importance of honor and the consequences of not being honorable.
Bill: Integrity means more than just being successful in a material sense.
Bill: I did not feel worthy to be the president, but if my peers felt like I could fill that position, then I would humbly try to do my best. I knew it would be an important task, but a challenge.
How has the school’s commitment to honor translated into your own life? Hunter: It has had a profound effect on me. As I have grown as a Darlington student, I have increasingly realized that honor is not just a commitment in the confines of the classroom or simply on campus. Rather, honor carries over to every aspect of life. It carries over in sports; it carries over in relationships; it carries over when applying to colleges or for a job; it carries over in everything. Learning that honor applies to everything has taught me that being honorable does not end when I get my diploma. Rather, my diploma symbolizes my lifelong commitment to honor. Bill: I thought about this question in terms of my profession. I own a pharmacy and work in a field that is controlled by many laws, rules and policies – both state and federal. Especially in this day and time, we are surrounded by controlled substances. For some, that temptation is too great. My desire is to do everything right and to obey the laws and the rules; to me, that’s the only way to operate it. It makes life simpler when you’re honorable and abide by the rules. This is not to say that my life has been perfectly blameless. But as a Christian, my faith, as a follower of Jesus, teaches that when you err, you should repent and you will be forgiven. I’m so thankful for that, which makes me strive to be more honorable in life.
What made you want to serve on the Honor Council? Hunter: When I first came to Darlington in the seventh grade, I knew I wanted to be a leader in some aspect. As I grew as a Darlington student, grew in my knowledge of the importance of honor, and as my sister encouraged me that I was fit for the Honor Council, I decided I wanted to become a member. I was blessed to get on the Honor Council as a freshman, and
What is/was the most fulfilling part to you personally about serving on the Honor Council? What is/was the most challenging? Hunter: The most fulfilling part about serving on the Honor Council has been the opportunity to be a part of preserving such an esteemed tradition. The Honor System is deeply ingrained in Darlington’s history, and being able to play a role in it is truly humbling. The most difficult part about being a member of the Honor Council undoubtedly has been having to punish or even expel my peers. Although it is rare that the Honor Council expels students, whenever it does, that is never a decision that is taken lightly. Decisions like these are hard decisions, but they are necessary in order to preserve the Honor System at Darlington. Bill: The most fulfilling part was helping students who came before the council to understand that we and the school were serious about honor. We weren’t trying to beat them up, but instead love them, find out what went wrong and help them improve. The most challenging part was having to confront our peers in somewhat of a trial-type atmosphere. It was hard to see the fear in their faces.
How does having an Honor System help make Darlington the place that it is? Hunter: Having an Honor System makes Darlington special. Our standard of honor creates a community of trust – a community where lockers can be left unlocked, a community where teachers can leave the room during tests, a community where your word is your bond. Such a community of trust changes the atmosphere of Darlington. Utmost integrity and truthfulness are expected of everyone. Expectations like these
Darlington Magazine
Campus Feature set Darlington apart and make it the incredible place it is. Bill: It makes Darlington a place worthy of respect. It’s a place in which you know you need to do it right because if you don’t, it’s not going to be brushed under the rug. You have to face the fiddler. It brings a sense of right and wrong that impacts you and everyone around you each and every day.
Why is it important to start talking about honor and character with our youngest students? Hunter: Honor is no easy trait to pick up and simply possess. It is a trait that is acquired as the value of it is recognized. Darlington attempts to instill honor in young students so that, even at a young age, children can begin to recognize how important a trait like honor is. Hopefully, growing up in a world that values “Honor Above Everything,” and seeing its importance, will lay solid foundation of high character that will only grow as students grow. Bill: Just as we discipline our own children, starting early to plant this seed deep within them, so do honor and character need to be planted within students so that trust can be developed with peers, faculty and even people outside the school community.
How do you feel when you think about the fact that a century of Darlington graduates share a common thread in their commitment to honor? Hunter: Being a part of this legacy is surreal. It is incredible to share the common bond of a commitment to honor with men like Mr. Bill Brewster. To be a part of such a group of people is affirming. I know that for the past century, men and women that have graduated from Darlington stand for the values that are so much a part of my life. When I leave this school, I know I will not be the only one that stands for “Honor Above Everything.” A century worth of Darlington alums stand with me. Bill: I’m proud to be part of a school that makes honor the ultimate goal. To see a student like Hunter leading the Honor Council demonstrates that the system still works; the thread of honor is still unbroken and as strong as ever.
What does it mean to you that the Honor System was founded by students? Hunter: Darlington’s Honor System was founded entirely by a group of students who had a vision for Darlington, a vision that has defined our school for a century now. The fact that students founded the Honor System is very important. The student body possesses the Honor System,
Summer 2016
and its success depends entirely on us. Students can make what they want to out of the Honor System; that’s what makes it so special. Those who take the Honor Code seriously expect honorable behavior from their classmates and teachers. Expecting honor out of everyone makes this school a more honorable place. It’s important that Darlington’s Honor System remain a student-led organization because at its core, our Honor System depends on the students. It is not something that the administration forces upon us. Rather, it is something that students take hold of on their own to make Darlington the best place it can be. Bill: It demonstrates to the students that it’s not just another rule pushed on them by the administration. It’s their friends, their peers and classmates, who realize the importance of honor and hold them accountable.
Which of your teachers/coaches best illustrate “Honor Above Everything?” Hunter: Darlington is full of great teachers and coaches who exemplify this standard every day. If I had to name one, I would name Kevin Hunt. Coach Hunt is a one of Darlington’s football coaches as well as our strength and conditioning coach. I had the privilege to both play for him and be in his strength and conditioning program. Let me tell you, neither of them was easy. He pushes his players to places they do not think they can go. But, it is in these places that Coach Hunt has his biggest impact. When times get tough and his players want to take a shortcut or even quit, Coach Hunt teaches his players life lessons. Time and time again, he has taught me not to quit, not to cheat, not to take a shortcut because doing such a thing not only cheats my own self but also cheats the man next to me. Coach Hunt has always been a man who is unafraid to stand up for what he believes in, no matter the consequences. He is strong and can even be intimidating at times, but he is humble. I have grown as a man because of the impact Coach Hunt has had on me. The lessons he has taught me go way beyond the weight room and football field. They are lessons that will stick with me the rest of my life. It is men and women like him who make Darlington great. They stand for what is right, believe in what is honorable, and have the desire to teach it to the next generation. Bill: Mr. Merson comes to mind; he had military background and we showed respect by standing at attention at the start of class. I also think of Dr. Wright, who was the president the year before I enrolled. He just radiated honesty and integrity; you didn’t even have to know him that well to see it. My dad came to see Dr. Wright before I came here and expressed concern about affordability. At that time, they had a little bit of
financial aid and he told my dad, “Mr. Brewster, don’t you worry about what I’m doing for you. We will get more in return than what I’m doing right now.” I will always remember that. Since then, my brother has served on the Board, my wife Charla and daughter Jennifer (’98) have taught here, and I try my best to be very supportive. Another person I think about is Jim Doss, our football coach. He started the FCA in Rome and Floyd County. He was a unique, good man who was very honest.
What life skills do you feel you took away from your experience as Honor Council president at Darlington? Hunter: Being president of the Honor Council has taught me many life skills. I have grown as a leader. I have learned how to sift through both sides of an argument. I have learned how to set aside my own opinions in order to justly look at facts. I have learned how to rebuke in an encouraging, tender manner. I have seen the effect that one mistake can have on a person’s life and have been humbled by this. Being president of the Honor Council has been a blessing, a blessing in which I know I have grown. I hope that the Honor System at Darlington will affect future presidents of the Honor Council, future Honor Council members, and simply students as a whole in the same way it has affected me. Bill: The way I try to manage my employees and my own business with fairness and respect comes from my experience on the Honor Council. I am very blessed to have great employees but as with anything there’s discipline, there’s rules, there’s accountability that I expect from them. Our workplace is like a family; I’ve always wanted it to be that way. I care a lot about them but I expect a lot from them, too. I expect them to treat customers well – with integrity, honor and professionalism.
What do you hope for the future of the Honor System at Darlington? Hunter: As I leave Darlington, I hope that the Honor System will remain a constant for centuries to come just as it has for the past century. I hope that students will continue see the importance of a standard like “Honor Above Everything.” I hope that the Honor System will continue to be a student-run organization in which it is the students who take the lead in promoting honor at Darlington. Most of all, I hope that the Honor System at Darlington will continue to shape the lives of all who go to, work at and graduate from Darlington. Bill: That it never decrease in importance and that it continue to be led by fine young people like Hunter, a great role model that I can learn from even at my stage in life.
11
Campus Feature
Road to Retirement
Craig Schmidt
Craig Schmidt knows what it’s like to grow u p on a sc ho ol c a m pus. Th e son of t wo Chattanooga, Tenn., teachers – his mother at Girls Preparatory School and father at McCallie – it was fitting that Craig, too, would someday become an educator. “What I love about teaching is that every day is different,” he said. “My field, history, is constantly changing. We always view the past through our personal perspective and that perspective is constantly evolving. Students are also constantly growing. It’s not just different students every year; each student also grows and changes each day. And then, of course, over the years I have worked with many different colleagues. Teachers, students and history are never the same. You never get bored.” Schmidt joined Darlington’s history faculty in 1986 and was named department chairman the following year. His previous teaching experience included one year at Camp Lejeune High School on the Camp Lejeune Marine Base and 12 years at Memphis University School. “I was introduced to Darlington on the soccer field when I was a seventh-grade student at McCallie,” said Schmidt. “My coach was Jim McCallie, who later became Darlington’s president. My eighth-grade math teacher was Gordon Bondurant, who also later became Darlington’s president. That same year, my science teacher was a former Darlington teacher, Harry Milligan. I would have had Joe Campbell as my tenth-grade math teacher, but he had moved to Darlington by then. My second teaching position was at Memphis University School, and its headmaster was Ross Lynn. Ross had been an outstanding teacher, coach, administrator at Darlington before he headed MUS.
12
“I came to Darlington because having grown up at McCallie, I was familiar with the independent boarding school world, and I wanted to work with educators like Joe Campbell and Jim McCallie,” Schmidt continued. “Since then, Darlington has had many great teachers. Men like Roger Stiflemire, Joe Campbell and David Rhodes showed a dedication to their students and the mission of the school. Teachers like Bruce Burch, Jack Summerbell, and Steve Killian taught history with knowledge, enthusiasm, and wit. Fortunately, we still have many current faculty that will continue this tradition.” During his tenure, Schmidt has taught AP European History, AP World History, AP U.S. History, Ancient World History Honors, U.S. History, Modern World History, Ancient World History, Military History, Government & Economics (summer school), and Algebra I Review (summer school). Additionally, he has served as adviser of the Chess Club, Scholar Bowl, Jabberwokk yearbook and National Honor Society. He has also coached varsity and junior varsity soccer. As a campus resident, he has served as a member of the Campus Duty Staff and the Academic Support Team, working primarily in Summerbell House. “The percentage of international students has grown tremendously [since I first came to Darlington],” said Schmidt, who holds a B.A. from New College and an M.A.T. from
Duke University. “It adds so much to the teaching of history when you have students from China, Korea, Japan, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Spain, Mexico, etc. in your class. Their backgrounds are so different from American students, and this variety enriches us all.” Schmidt has received numerous honors and awards for his work with students, including being named STAR Teacher several times. “I have stayed at Darlington this long because I have been able to pursue scholarship in my field and work with talented students from around the world,” he said. “For me, teaching is about scholarship and students. To be a good teacher, I think you need to be equally dedicated to both. “The most satisfying moments are when you see students grow intellectually,” he continued. “All students are capable of this, but you must be willing to work with the students where they are. You must also challenge all students, and that requires that the teacher always keeps learning about his subject. Darlington has given me the opportunity to do both.” According to Schmidt, his plans for retirement can be summed up in three simple words – to keep learning.
Darlington Magazine
Community News
“We are fortunate to be a part of a school family that values honor as much as it does academics, athletics and art. When we are encouraged to live our lives in a way that is good and honorable
and right, we are being given a character trait that will serve us well for the rest of our lives.” – Grace Watters (’20) of Rome, Ga.
This year, Darlington celebrates the 100th anniversary of the establishment of its Honor System by a group of students in 1915. Founders Roy Echols, Thompson Hiles, Barrington King, Earl Shamblin, Hollie Vandiver and John Wooten envisioned a community-wide, student-led system built on an Honor Code that would be enforced by a student-elected and student-run council. Today, the Honor System r em a ins a n integral part of the school’s mission and culture, fostering a community of trust in which everyone embraces the importance of honorable living. To accomplish this, each member of the community pledges to follow and uphold four guiding principles: I will not lie, I will not cheat, I will not steal, I will not tolerate any dishonorable behavior on the part of myself or others.
“There are many schools that have an Honor System or Code. I think what sets Darlington apart from most is that it was created by the students and is still administered by students. Darlington talks of empowering students, and I believe the Honor Code and Honor
Summer 2016
Council are perfect examples of how they are empowered to think and act in difficult situations.” – Brant Evans of Rome, Ga. Dean of Student Life
In the next few pages, students, faculty and alumni talk about the impact of Da r l i ngton ’s Honor Syst e m a n d th e importance of upholding the ideals of the Honor Code in order to keep “Honor Above Everything.”
13
“Although I could name a multitude of things about Darlington that are important to me, I think the fact that the school has the Honor System – and my good fortune to have served on the Honor Council from the eighth grade through graduation – made a huge difference in my life. Academics will only get you so far, but if you have honor and integrity as part of your DNA you will do well in life.
“I am so proud of Beth (’87) and Bailey (’15) for following suit and giving us three generations on the Honor Council. I hope that the Honor System will always be a huge part of the Darlington experience – the school would not be the same without it.” – Wright Bagby (’63) of Rome, Ga. Former Honor Council Member
“I love to think that I am part of an amazing tradition that has been going on for 100 years! To me, ‘Honor Above Everything’ means thinking of everyone before yourself and giving respect to everyone you meet. For example, when my parents said that our family was going to start fostering, at first I was scared. I did not know what it was going to be like with this big change. I knew it was going to be hard for me, but then I thought about the kids that we were going to foster and, over time, I got more excited about it. We have been fostering for almost a year now, and I have had many opportunities to show my sisters [the importance] of always being honest.” – Kate Scott (’23) of Rome, Ga.
“There always will be a true voice in my mind, a voice that appears without my order, to guide me to the right path when I am at a crossroad. It may differ for each person based on their experiences, their relationships with others, or their personality, but one thing that never changes is that you will never feel guilty for what you did. That voice, speaking in
another way, is people’s honor. There’s no need for one to understand what exactly their honor is; what’s important is that this concept, while so abstract, is the fuel that drives us forward in the right direction.”
“Darlington graduates share many common threads and honor is the most treasured of those threads.”
– Linda (Grizzard) Owens (’79) of Rome, Ga., Board Chair Former Honor Council President
14
– Amy Chen (’18) of Hangzhou, China
Darlington Magazine
Campus Feature
“Darlington has ingrained in each of us a sense of honor. You don’t realize it’s something you’ve learned; it’s just something you know. To do anything but uphold what you know seems impossible, even in the most challenging circumstances.” – Luke Lester (’84) of Cartersville, Ga. Trustee and Alumni Council President
“To me, ‘Honor Above Everything’ means that while it is important to make good grades and to try our hardest in academics, sports, and fine arts, the most important thing that we can teach children is to have a strong character and to make good choices. We have the opportunity to begin, at a young age, to teach children to be honest, kind, compassionate and just. They learn that they do not always need to be first or best. They learn the benefit of making good choices and of admitting their mistakes when they stumble. These are
things that children do not always learn in ‘traditional’ classrooms. “I was always told that ‘Honor is a gift that someone gives themselves.’ While my students may not remember every bit of information I have taught them in science, it is my hope that they will remember the lessons and examples of honor we have given them here at Darlington.” – Justin Merriam of Rome, Ga. Science Teacher, Grades 3-5
“I truly strive to put honor above everything in my life. I look for it in friends and try to strengthen it within myself and others. That has been my goal these past four years on the council: to implement the highest standard of honor at Darlington and show people, especially through example, how valuable honor is in my life and how valuable it can be in theirs. “It is so important that schools teach students about honor and good character because it sets a solid foundation for later in life. Our hope is that Darlington students adopt a solid knowledge of honor so it not only serves them well here, but in the future as well. I hope that the Honor System at Darlington continues to thrive and build. I hope that not just the majority, but the entirety of the student body understands the value of honor.” – Eleanor Goldin (’16) of Rome, Ga. Honor Council Executive Committee
Summer 2016
15
Campus Feature
“Darlington has changed in many ways over the years but the Honor System and Code has stood the test of time. To all who are part of the Darlington family, the Honor System will always serve as a constant reminder of the importance of excellent character and will always place before us the standard to which we can be true to ourselves and to those we meet in our everyday life. Developing good character is more than academics and will remain ingrained in our being for our entire lives. For this, we owe our Honor System our lasting debt of gratitude.” – Jack Summerbell of Rome, Ga. Former Faculty
“I wanted my children to be at a school that teaches honor and respect every single day and empowers them to take ownership of their learning and behavior. Darlington’s commitment to honor provides an incredible atmosphere for learning. When students begin to understand what honor is and they
are held accountable, they are not only better behaved but they are eager to do the right thing. I love being at a school that values ‘Honor Above Everything!’” – Beth Wardlaw of Rome, Ga. Technology Integration Specialist
“Honor and integrity create the foundation for strong relationships. Becoming a whole person means learning more than just what’s found in books, so teaching these both at home and at school are what our children need to grow and become the best adults they can be. Helping our students build strong relationships with friends, teachers, coaches, and family is something they will take with them through their lives.” – Julie (Wilson) Lucas (’97) of Rome, Ga. Director of Development Former Honor Council Member
“I feel a sense of responsibility to continue Darlington’s 100-year tradition of honor. Every day, I am faced with choices that have right or wrong outcomes. Showing up to class and practice on time, respecting my peers and teachers, and making the right decisions are all situations that require honor. Whether I step on the football field or the track, I play with
16
an intent to respect the game as well as my teammates and opponents. ‘Honor Above Everything’ serves as a reminder for me that the game is bigger than myself and to play with purpose and respect.” – Bob Ledbetter (’16) of Rome, Ga.
Darlington Magazine
CC om a mmpuunsi tFye aNteuwr es
“I was an Honor Council rep from Lower Forms through senior year when I served as vice president. Dr. E.L. Wright brought the Code to Darlington from the University of Virginia and the Marine Corps (WWI). He wrote the statement we had to write on every test booklet. He was a wonderful teacher, administrator and human being. I would say the same about John Cunningham, my physics teacher and soccer coach – the perfect example of dedication and honor. I could add many others.”
“Inevitably, students will be faced with situations that can have a ripple effect on the rest of their lives (personal, professional and academic). Being exposed to and taught [the importance of honor] at an early age – or honestly at any age – helps develop the ‘muscle memory’ needed to move through the checklist when presented with a fork in the road. This is something that I feel Darlington has a leg up on other institutions in, that not only are students learning how to succeed academically and professionally, but we’re also teaching them invaluable life skills that will carry on forever.” – Mike Jones (’04, LD ’16) of San Francisco, Calif.
– John Hunter (’55) of New York City Former Trustee and Honor Council Member
“When I attended the University of Virginia, the Honor Code was central to life for everyone. We signed our pledge to tests and papers much like Darlington students do today. Therefore, a school with an Honor Code that is central to their very existence was important to me both as an employee and a parent. It seems logical to me that any parent
Summer 2016
would want this in a school for their child, because without honor, nothing else works in a person’s life; honor must come first … It points to the question, ‘What do you value more, your own will or your soul?’ – Jean Bonnyman of Concord, N.C. Former Faculty
17
CCaam mppuuss VFieeawt u r e
LIGHT THE LAKE
Proceeds from the sale of this T-shirt, designed by Selena Chen (’16), were donated to Cancer Navigators and Summit Quest.
A luminary memorializes former faculty member Kandi Riddle.
Sam Kim (’17) blows bubbles.
Students roast marshmallows in The Cove at the end of the evening.
Light the Lake is an annual tradition that brings the entire Darlington Community together in service and honor. Each spring, the student-led, Relay for Life-inspired event brings students, faculty, parents, alumni, and friends to the Lakeside for a variety of activities and performances as well as food and fellowship. Proceeds raised through T-shirt sales support Cancer Navigators and Summit Quest, local non-profit organizations that provide resources and services to those facing the disease. Throughout the evening, attendees walk reflective laps around Silver Lake, which is lined with hundreds of luminaries in honor and memory of friends and family. As dusk falls, the evening culminates with a moving Walk of Honor.
Balloons are released in honor and memory of those who have fought cancer.
Haojun Xu (’16) takes the stage.
Hundreds of luminaries line Silver Lake.
18
Darlington Magazine
Rainey Scarborough (’18), Annabelle Scarborough (’18) and Morgan Adams (’18) play a song for attendees.
Luminaries honoring friends and loved ones light the bank of Silver Lake.
The Darlingtones sing for attendees
Dawson Horah (’16) and Adam Tarrant (’16) light luminaries.
Attendees walk laps around Silver Lake.
Sydney Neville (’29) plays balloon games with friends.
Sophi Shumate (’23) and her classmates perform a song.
Faculty member Luke Chaffin and his dog, Henry, enjoy the festivities. The Walk of Honor is led by bagpiper Tom Crawford and the Tiger mascots. Summer 2016
19
Campus Feature Campus Feature
Charlotte Dillmon (’25) portrays civil rights activist Rosa Parks.
Honorable Heroes
History comes alive at Wax Museum It’s not uncommon to find the Pope, Anne Frank, Tim Tebow, Clara Barton and Nelson M andela catching up with one another while on break, all in one room – at least not at Darlington’s annual Third-Grade Wax Museum, which took place in March. Now in its fifth year, the interactive, project-based learning experience takes both the actors and guests on an engaging journey into different personalities, eras, and cultures by way of an interdisciplinary presentation. “The Wax Museum is such an important part of our curriculum because it allows students to utilize every part of what we do in third grade,” said teacher Steve McConnell. “They are very active in Reading Workshop, Writer’s Workshop, art, Spanish, research, library skills, public speaking and drama.” To begin the cross-curricular project, a theme and potential historic figures were introduced in January. It was the perfect opportunity to tie in with something else that was also brought to life by Darlington students – the Honor Code.
20
“A project like this one makes honor and integrity relevant and more concrete for the kids,” said teacher Jamie Massey. “They can see it in action instead of just talking about it; they can connect to some person and some event.” An overarching theme of honor gave way to different notable members of society spanning a fascinating mix of professions, nationalities and time periods. Summaries and previews of each individual – some that were known and some unknown – were presented to students. Each third-grader chose three of their favorites from the master list and, with some guidance, were able to narrow down the best fit based on each presenter. “We love performances and plays, and we want the kids to have that experience – but we also value our academic time, so by marrying the two we’re still teaching the academics and the enrichments,” said Massey. “Additionally, you have a fabulous performance in the end.” After working with ELA-8 librarians to find grade-level appropriate primary and secondary sources to use for their research, students created an outline to help lay out important facts, dates, contributions to humankind, as well as information about what was going on in the world during the time in which their historic figure lived. After a great deal of brainstorming, reading nonfiction books and writing several rough drafts, a final research paper set up the foundation for an exciting presentation. “Without the Wax Museum, you wouldn’t get to learn as much because it would have been just a paper,” said Chandler Bagby (’25), who portrayed Benjamin Franklin. “I came to life and talked to [visitors] and let them ask questions. I learned more because it helped [others] to learn.” Students used their reports to create a Keynote presentation that was then made into an iMovie. The third-graders pulled together different props and artifacts to bring something tangible and three-dimensional to their exhibits. Completing each display was a portrait
painted in the likeness of the person they had spent several months studying. If that was not enough, each presentation was given in English and in Spanish at the push of a corresponding button. “Watching the expressions of parents and visitors as they marvel at the work of these 8- to 10-year-olds is priceless,” said McConnell. “Just seeing them tackle this head on and discovering the determination they have within to finish the project is very satisfying for me as a teacher.” When the long-awaited Wax Museum finally filled the space in the Yankee Wrestling Room, students transformed themselves to take on the persona of their honorable celebrity. “I worked so hard because I was a seamstress and a secretary. Once I got on that bus, I was like, ‘I’m going to relax – because I’m tired!’” said Charlotte Dillmon (’25), who, like sister Zoe (’21) a few years earlier, portrayed civil rights activist Rosa Parks. “I decided to sit in the middle. Everybody got up for white riders except for me. My friends at the NAACP had to bail me out of jail.” Beyond having that strong sense of accomplishment that comes with executing a multi-faceted project from beginning to end, students also took home valuable life lessons rooted in honor from the notable persons into whose shoes and era they stepped. “[Parks] was trying to teach us that we’re not separated by our colors or anything we do,” said Dillmon. “God doesn’t make us separate colors because we are good or bad. He made us different so we could each be our own unique self.” Perhaps most important was a takeaway from the experience that characteristics like integrity are simply timeless, not bound by geographic location or generation. “It is important that we learn all about the people that were honorable back then,” said Alli Robinson (’25), who portrayed Mother Teresa. “They can teach something for us to do today.”
Darlington Magazine
Community News
Road to Retirement
Stephanie Fleming
For the past 20 years, Stephanie Fleming has been among the very first smiling faces that prospective families see when they arrive on campus for their visit. A fixture in Sydenham Hall’s Admission Office, she was always there to give a warm welcome or bring comfort to a nervous visitor. “During my first campus visit in 1996 as a prospective student, Stephanie was the first person we met,” recalled Kent Harrison (’01, LD ’15). “Is it possible to feel love and care from the first steps on campus? I believe so. There are countless other families that have shared this same experience. Stephanie truly has loved every family that has walked through those Sydenham Hall doors. We felt it that day back in 1996 and have felt it every day since.” Interestingly enough, the year of Harrison’s visit was also Fleming’s first year as a receptionist in admissions. During her tenure, she has worn many hats but her favorite has been coordinator of the Tiger Expert program, which incorporates studentleaders into the admission process in various ways, including as student tour guides, community speakers, and more. “I never dreamed that it would become such a tremendous gift to me,” Fleming said. “Our campus is beautiful but our amazing students are the story. Year after year, I’ve had the pleasure of not only watching them grow and learn, but being an active part of their lives. Sharing life with and growing to love these students through the years has been so rewarding.” Charlotte Boyd (‘15), a four-year Tiger Expert who now attends the University of Georgia, is one of many current and former students who reached out to Fleming upon hearing news of her retirement. “Mrs. Fleming has changed my life for the better,” said Boyd. “She is near and dear to my heart and always will be. I am thankful to Mrs. Fleming that
Summer 2016
she gave me the opportunity to share my love for my school with others through our Tiger Expert program. Not a day has passed that I haven’t missed Darlington. It is such an amazing place!” Fleming’s first connection with Darlington was as a parent, so the school has been a big part of her life for over 30 years. She and her husband, Frank, are the parents of alumni Drew (’97) and Barrett (’00), both of whom enrolled at the school in kindergarten. “A parent’s joy begins when they see their children blossom and grow. We were truly blessed to see that happen as they began to grow in confidence through excellent teachers and programs in the Lower, Middle and Upper Schools,” Fleming said. “What fun it was to watch as they learned to become more independent and confident in their studies, performed in school plays, and participated in sports and other activities. Great nurturing friendships were made with teachers, coaches and lifelong friends. “God gives us all special gifts, talents, and opportunities in life, and [our sons] have used those attributes with Darlington’s encouragement to become successful businessmen and leaders in their communities,” she continued. “Darlington stretches while encouraging students to think outside the norm.
The values Darlington teaches are immeasurable.” A graduate of boarding school herself, Fleming holds a B.S. in Elementary Education from Brenau University and taught third and fourth grade in the public school system for eight years. In her retirement, she looks forward to spending more time with her children and grandchildren, traveling, and volunteering in the community and with her church. But she will certainly miss her friends at Darlington. “The people you work so closely with each day become family,” Fleming said. “So many of us have watched each other’s sons and daughters grow up here at Darlington. We have shared special milestones in our lives, like graduation, engagements, weddings, the birth of grandchildren, and caring for elderly parents. I have been so inspired by my colleagues and their dedication to Darlington even through life’s many ups and downs. I will cherish, respect and love my Darlington family for a lifetime. “What an amazing blessing it has been for me to know and love so many students, teachers, coworkers and parents,” she continued. “It just takes my breath away to have shared life with so many different wonderful people. Darlington will always be in my heart.”
21
Class Notes
Annual Fund Director Julia Douglas (’07) escorts Jerry Dunwoody (’53) to Morris Chapel for the Class of 1953 Lectureship. Former Darlington president Jim McCallie visits with Sam Donaldson (’53) at the Class of 1953 Lectureship.
Harlan Trammell (’53) introduces guest speaker Dr. Gio Valiante at the Class of 1953 Lectureship.
1949
1961
(next reunion 2019)
Class Agent: Vacancy
Wiley Virden Jr. celebrated his 87th birthday with several friends, including Cooper Taylor (’49) and Asa Candler (’48), at Altobelli’s in Roswell, Ga., on Dec. 7, 2015.
Alston Glenn (’57), Roby Robinson (’58) and Billy Mitchell (’58) catch up at a luncheon for Atlanta-area alumni from the 40s, 50s and 60s.
1951
(next reunion 2016)
Class Agent: Gary Fitts
Pete Petersen III’s complete memoirs were presented to Darlington by his son, Pete Petersen IV, this spring. The school played a prominent role in shaping the life of the elder Peterson and appears frequently throughout the sevenvolume, 4,500-page life story. In his words, “When I finished the work ... it became clear that Darlington School was not only my home for six years, but formed me for my life’s work ahead.”
(next reunion 2016)
Class Agents: Terry Bradshaw, Alex Wyatt
Lloyd Griffin III has joined Toles, Temple & Wright Inc. as a commercial and residential real estate agent. He graduated from Barney Fletcher Real Estate School in Atlanta and has held an active Georgia real estate license since 2002. He previously owned Bagby Transfer Co., Summit Distributing Co. and Stor-It Mini Warehouses. 1963
(next reunion 2018)
Class Agents: Honey (Buskill) Dews, Bob Elkins
Bob Elkins and Dean of College Guidance Sam Moss (’63) reconnected at the University of the South’s homecoming activities in Sewanee, Tenn., this spring. Bob was there for the dedication of a plaque in his late brother, Jim Elkins’ (’58), honor at his fraternity house.
David Hanks (’58) speaks about his Darlington experience during the Augusta alumni gathering as Head of School Brent Bell listens.
Dean of College Guidance Sam Moss (’63) and Wade Brannon (’79) catch up during an Atlanta alumni gathering.
22
Pete Petersen IV presents his father’s memoirs to Brent Bell, Madge (Brown ’84) Crawford and Joe Montgomery.
Sam Moss (’63) and Bob Elkins (’63, LD ’13)
Darlington Magazine
Class Notes
Rob Cheshire (’83) participates in Leadership Darlington. Sam Moss III writes: “Sitting in the lobby of the Hyatt, I just ran into Ray Walker (’87). He was here for a conference and is currently living in Cary, N.C. Ray sent regards to all at Darlington.”
Sam Moss (’63) and Ray Walker (’87) 1979
(next reunion 2019)
Class Agent: Tony Massing
Bruce Levingston performed solo premiers of works by composers Nolan Gasser and James Matheson, as well as works by Philip Glass and Franz Schubert, at Premiere Commission’s 15th anniversary concert in Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall in April. He was joined by baritone Justin Hopkins for the New York City premiere of “Repast,” an oratorio based on the life of the Mississippi civil rights figure Booker Wright, with a libretto by PEN Open Award-winner Kevin Young. This work and its premiere were cocommissioned and co-sponsored by Premiere Commission and Southern Foodways Alliance. Will Morris IV is chief executive officer of Morris Communications Co.
Lloyd Griffin (’61) attends a Rome-area Alumni Lunch & Learn about “The Power of Play.” 1982
Rick Brinkman (’65) visits with Carter Clark (’88) at an alumni networking lunch in Marietta, Ga.
(next reunion 2017)
Class Agent: Charlie Williams
Ron Dempsey Jr. has been named vice president for advancement at Winona State University in Minnesota. He previously served as vice president for advancement and university development at Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta, Ga. Ron says, “As vice president for university advancement, one of my main roles is to make connections. I look forward to working with our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, community members, legislators and friends of Winona State.”
Annual Fund volunteers Carl Herring, Lauren Ledbetter, Brooke Brinson (’88), Wayne Robinson, Kimberly (Murphy) Moseley (’87) and her daughter, Murphy Grace, thank parent donors during morning carpool in February.
Augusta-area alumni attend a gathering hosted by Will Morris (’79) in November.
Summer 2016
23
Alumni Profile
Hank Linginfelter (’79) A life lived in honor
When the grand gavel came down in January to open the year for the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the organization welcomed not only its second century but yet another Darlington graduate to the helm as chairman of the board – Hank Linginfelter (’79). Considered one of the most prestigious boards in the state, leaders of the Georgia Chamber are groomed and chosen several years in advance for their respective 12-month term. Linginfelter follows in the footsteps of Frank Barron (’48), who served as board chair in 1982. In his day-to-day role as executive vice president for distribution operations at AGL Resources, Linginfelter serves as the chairman and CEO of Atlanta Gas Light Company’s seven utilities. There, he oversees a variety of different functions spanning field operations to customer experience, and energy efficiency programs to construction, among others. The Darlington alumnus is also closely involved with and responsible for regulatory and governmental affairs and economic development. While ambition and hard work played integral roles in bringing Linginfelter to this stage in his life, other key factors led him on his way, including a commitment to honesty and ethical practices ingrained early as a Darlington student. Following a relocation to the rolling hills of Rome from the Georgia Coast, his family immediately set out to find the best place for their son to obtain his education. “When my parents looked at the options, it was crystal clear. The very best thing they could do was to send me to Darlington,” said Linginfelter. “They knew it had the best students, academics, and ethics, and it
24
positioned me for the most potential going forward.” In preparation for his time at Darlington, the eager student went as far as studying the entire school handbook to make sure he was on the same page with the classmates he would meet in the fall. “It was very upfront that there was an Honor Code you had to live by – a standard of behavior that was formally described in that book,” he recalled. “That formality and intensity at the time was new to me, but did create this inner sense that you were obligated to do what was right and to be honest – to where you had to wear it a little harder.” After graduation, Linginfelter went on to earn a B.S. in Industrial Management from the Georgia Institute of Technology and an M.B.A. from Georgia State University. He soon found that a life lived in honor led him to opportunities that aligned with his personal value system, which was greatly influenced by Darlington. AGL Resources, for example, where he assumed his current position in December 2007, values a commitment to safety, stewardship, dignity, respect, integrity and honesty. “It’s what our employees expect of the company,” said Linginfelter. “I love working for an organization that values [honor] because it’s the way I am and the way that Darlington helped make me.” Now in a new season of service that began in January, the alum sees that carry over once again.
“Our job as the Georgia Chamber is to advocate for a strong free enterprise by making commerce stronger in this state,” he said. “The only way you can do that is from a position of integrity.” In addition to working alongside the executive and legislative branches for the advocacy component, the Georgia Chamber also meets with prospects and consultants to pitch why Georgia is the best place to do business. Some of Linginfelter’s own duties with the Chamber this year will be to guide the implementation of the Georgia 2030 plan, which will help leadership envision and sculpt what the state will look like in the coming decades. Beyond the giving of his time to help ensure positive growth in the Peach State, Linginfelter maintains a myriad of other ways that he has plugged into a life of service. He holds membership on the boards of the Boy Scouts Atlanta Area Council, Jekyll Island Foundation, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, Southern Gas Association, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and is heavily involved on advisory boards at Georgia Tech. “Darlington trains people to be thoughtful and honest leaders in whatever they do,” he said. “Learning the Honor Pledge was something that was required so that when you wrote it, you knew and meant what it said. It is a real connection that bonds our alumni.” Linginfelter and his wife, Sandy, live in Atlanta and are parents of Sam and Sloan.
Darlington Magazine
Class Notes
Scott Morris (’95), Matt Sawhill (’96), Mary (Hight) Sawhill (’96) and event hostess Morgan Stewart visit at the Atlanta gathering in November. 1983
(next reunion 2018)
Class Agents: Katherine (Persons) Kelly, Stephanie (Smith) Walker
Barry Hurley has been appointed to the American Association of Bank Directors’ General Counsel and Corporate Secretary Committee. The committee’s primary duties are to participate in meetings with the federal and state banking agencies, members of Congress, Congressional Committees, and other bank trade associations as well as to testify before Congressional hearings on matters of interest to bank directors. Barry has over 25 years of experience in regulatory matters dealing with multiple state banking agencies as well as federal agencies such as the FDIC, Federal Reserve Bank, OCC, OTS and the Department of Justice. 1985
Annual Fund volunteers Doug Braden (’87) and Kevin Evans (’87) thank parent donors on a chilly February morning.
(next reunion 2020)
Class Agent: Wright Ledbetter
Bates Redwine was named to B-Metro magazine’s list of Top Doctors of 2015. 1986
(next reunion 2016)
Class Agent: Vacancy
Clint Robinson had the opportunity to connect with Dean of College Guidance Sam Moss (’63) during Sam’s trip to Washington, D.C., last fall. Clint and his family live in Alexandria, Va.
Jim Bowling (’88) attends a networking lunch for Atlanta alumni in February. 1987
(next reunion 2017)
Class Agent: Kimberly (Murphy) Moseley
Leah Claybrook-Vallely is a member of the history faculty at Calhoun Community College in Huntsville, Ala. She is also a Ph.D. candidate in public history at Middle Tennessee State University.
David Harvey (’88) catches up with Van Willis (’88) during a networking lunch for Atlanta alumni. Clint Robinson (’86) and Sam Moss (’63)
Summer 2016
25
C lpaus ss FNeoatteusr e Cam
Jim Barr Coleman (’93) enjoys a student performance during Leadership Darlington.
Barbie Lee (’95) and Mary Katherine (Husser) Simmons (’96) catch up at the Nashville alumni lunch in February. 1988
(next reunion 2018)
1991
(next reunion 2016)
Class Agent: Ron Mixon
Class Agent: Stephanie (Denney) Dunton
Bill Mathis and his wife, Libby, announce the birth of a son, William Wyatt, on Dec. 31, 2015. The family lives in Atlanta.
Mary Margaret (Wright) Ryan earned her Ed.S. in Literacy from Converse College. She continues to enjoy her work as an educational specialist at Collegiate School in Richmond, Va. 1992
(next reunion 2017)
Class Agents: Annabelle (Jordan) Hubbell, Michelle (Simmons) Payne, Claire (Drummond) Strowd
Retired faculty member Rick Buice pictured with Will Harbin (’95), KIXEYE chairman and CEO, after Harbin’s keynote presentation at the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce’s Confluence conference.
William Wyatt, son of Libby and Bill Mathis (’88) 1990
(next reunion 2020)
Marlon Reyes Granados has moved back to Mexico City for a two-year project with Shell Oil Co. In February, he joined Darlington Admission Officer Nathan Holst at The Association of Boarding Schools’ Mexico City fair. Marlon enjoyed talking to parents and students about his Darlington experience.
Class Agents: Mary Margaret (Estess) Johnson, Bill Temple
Nancy Koen (’96) graduates from Leadership Darlington.
26
Thomas Mew IV has switched from the defense side to the plaintiff’s side, leaving Rogers & Hardin after 14 years for litigation boutique Buckley Beal. Buckley Beal formed last summer from the combination of The Buckley Law Firm, handling employment disputes for plaintiffs, and The Beal Law Group, representing small business owners and individuals in commercial disputes. Thomas said it was the combination of the two firms that piqued his interest. In addition to employment cases, Thomas handles some business litigation. He is also the co-author of “Georgia Motion Practice,” published by the Daily Report.
Nathan Holst and Marlon Reyes Granados (’92) 1997
(next reunion 2017)
Class Agents: Julie (Wilson) Lucas, Van Morris, Michael Van Cise
Laura (Collier) Darnell and her husband, Gary, announce the birth of a son, Andrew Mack, on Feb. 3, 2016. The family lives in Greer, S.C.
Darlington Magazine
Alumni Profile
Dr. Dan Garrett (’82) The satisfaction of ‘doing good work’
Th e at t e n t ion of e v ery m e m ber of t h e audience was fixed on Dr. Dan Garrett (’82) during Career Day 2016, as the Californiabased economist shared humorous anecdotes and musings from his life and career that stressed the importance of putting “Honor Above Everything” into practice beyond graduation. Students in grades 9-12, Upper School faculty, and special guests were in attendance as the Darlington Community officially opened the biannual tradition in Morris Chapel on Jan. 15. “Dan was an important addition to our Career Day lineup as the keynote in keeping with this year’s celebration of honor,” said Vicki Vincent, director of alumni relations. “His own career has included a dedicated focus on consulting with product misrepresentation, antitrust and consumer fraud clients. The concept of integrity is so interwoven with what he does on a day-to-day basis.” As an integral part of his presentation, Garrett tied in the 100th anniversary of the Honor Code and his role as Honor Council president with career milestones and different turning points in his life. He thoughtfully delivered entertaining stories from his
Summer 2016
time in student leadership and as an undergraduate, focusing on how his experience at Darlington helped to prepare him for success. “Only a small subset of us were on the Honor Council, but all of us were on the Honor System,” said Garrett. “My one-sentence life plan is to live long and prosper in the context of being a moral and noble person. I’m grateful to Darlington’s Honor System for helping define that path for me and for treating me, while I was here, as someone who would live up to that.” The alumnus also credits his alma mater with giving him the tools and training to think clearly, communicate effectively, take part in honest work, and ultimately find his calling. “There are a lot of things in life that you have no control over. One factor that you can control is how hard you work,” Garrett told students. “Instead of focusing on being happy, focus on the satisfaction of doing good work. Find things worth doing and spend time doing them.” As a vice president of Cornerstone Research, the economic analyst has worked closely with clients representing financial institutions, pharmaceuticals, consumer products and technology, among others. His specialties include product liability, antitrust and competition, arbitration, litigation, securities, and labor and employment. Garrett has presented to audiences affiliated with organizations like the American Economic Association, the Association for Financial Counseling
and Planning Education, the Center for Pension and Retirement Research, the Federal Trade Commission, and the New York State Bar Association. Within his industry, he is also a published author on the topic of antitrust specifically. “The work that we do is ultimately put under oath,” Garrett explained. “The first time I gave a deposition, I was probably five or six years into my career … The attorney defending my deposition thought I’d given away an admission that was really bad for his client. I left feeling kind of sad that I had made this mistake. That evening, I ran into one of my mentors from undergrad who I respect a lot. I told him what the attorney had said and he said, ‘Remember this. You were under oath and he was not.’” In addition to his service to Darlington’s Honor Council, Garrett was on Student Council and editor of the Jabberwokk yearbook. He was also a member of the Cum Laude Society and the Scholar Bowl. The alumnus holds a B.A. in Economics and Philosophy from the University of Virginia, where he was named a Jefferson Scholar. In 1997, he received his Ph.D. in Economics from Stanford University. “Be honest. Be honorable,” he told his Career Day audience. “If you’re not those things, get that way. If you are, stay that way.” Sponsored by the Alumni Council, Career Day takes place every two years. January’s one-day event, which highlighted a variety of industries and professions, encompassed 35 alumni from Alabama, California, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, and Washington. “Career Day is an opportunity for our students to learn more about the vast array of career opportunities out there from our alumni base,” said Vincent. “It is also a great way to not only connect with our graduates and keep them engaged with us, like Dan, but to also show our students the importance of staying plugged into the Darlington Community and giving back.” Garrett and his wife, Nancy Beth, live in Sunnyvale, Calif., and are the parents of Elizabeth, Tom, Maggie, and Jack.
27
Class Notes
Hank Johnson (’99), Wes Foss (’97), Scott Foss (’01) and Robert Hortman (’99) attend the Nashville alumni lunch.
Gordon Hight (’94) participates in Leadership Darlington.
Keith Baldwin (’90) talks about his work as an auctioneer on Career Day. Julie (Wilson) Lucas has been named chief advancement officer at Darlington School, effective in July. As such, she will oversee the two areas of school life most significant to the school’s annual resources, enrollment management and annual fundraising. Julie has been at Darlington since 2007, serving most recently as director of development. She and her husband, Sam (’97, LD ’13), have two children, Wilson (’28) and Hudson.
Michael Van Cise (’97, LD ’12) cohosts a networking lunch for Atlanta alumni with Regan Maki (’98, LD ’14).
Sarah Rhodes (’02) graduates from Leadership Darlington. Molly (Kelly) Steeves and her husband, Charles, announce the birth of a daughter, Mary Alston Kelly, on Jan. 23, 2016. The family lives in Atlanta.
Michael Van Cise and his wife, Ashley, announce the birth of a daughter, Gabriella Claire, on March 4, 2016. The family lives in Atlanta. 1998
(next reunion 2018)
Class Agent: Regan Maki
Chas Jackson III gave a presentation on transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) at Rome Rotary Club this spring. He is a cardiologist with Harbin Clinic in Rome.
28
Mary Alston Kelly, daughter of Molly (Kelly ’98) and Charles Steeves
Darlington Magazine
Community News
Mara Evans (’91) Living life in the light
Not even a seven-gener ation homestead near Cave Spring, Ga., and close-knit bonds with her family could keep Mara Evans (’91) from experiencing the world and living and working all over the country. It was a deep sense of family pride, however, that cemented the alumna’s personal connection to honor, having grown up among values instilled from the very beginning of her clan’s history. “As you walked through the front door of our house as I was growing up, your first view was of the great Welsh crest of Evans … and the Scottish crest of Erwin, ever reminding us that we not only have heritage, but we have honor,” she said. “It was a great foundation for esteem and confidence in myself.” When it came to her education and the steps she would take to succeed, it was all Evans, even from an early age. It seemed only fitting that she would eventually make her way to the Lakeside as a high school student. “Coming to Darlington was my choice – I raised my hand to my parents,” she said. “I came for a visit and fell in love, though it was a bit of a culture shock for me coming from the Coosa countryside.” While at Darlington, the day student was a cheerleader, ran cross country, played basketball, participated in Drama Club, was a staff member of the Jabberwokk and the Inkslinger, and also wrote for The Darlingtonian. After volunteering through Darlington, staying true to her pledge to live by the Honor Code and getting involved in High School Leadership Rome, Evans was hooked on finding a way to give back. It would be a propelling force in her career that later came full circle. Evans graduated in 1991 with honors and went on to earn a B.A. in English from the University of Georgia. She packed her bags and moved to Atlanta to begin her career,
Summer 2016
working in advertising as an account and production assistant at Blue Sky Agency. In 2004, she completed her studies in copywriting through The Creative Circus. After spending several years on Madison Avenue in New York – managing national brands like Converse and IKEA – Evans packed up once again. She made the cross-country move to Los Angeles, where she began working for Crispin Porter + Bogusky, specifically managing the Old Navy brand. Despite moves up the ladder and around the U.S., there was one thing, in particular, reinforced during her Darlington days that she has kept in her proverbial suitcase. “[Honor is] about so much more than just swearing that I didn’t cheat on this test or that homework,” said Evans. “For me, it’s about taking pride in the fact that I chose to live my life in the light, to be proudly open-hearted and honest with myself and with others.” Now the creative director at TOMS, Evans continues to live and work in LA. It is the first time she has worked what the industry calls “client-side,” directly representing a brand instead of working at an agency. “TOMS is a place that pairs my passion for brand storytelling with creating a better world,” said the alumna. “It’s a company that matches your purchases with products for those in need – one for one.”
The company started with the synonymous shoes, but has expanded to sell sunglasses and optical frames, coffee and bags, continuing a business model that matches every purchase with a give of some kind. Since opening operations in 2006, TOMS has given over 50 million shoes to impoverished tikes, and now also helps give sight, clean water, and safer birthing conditions. Intrinsic to the company’s operations are good, honest practices that help bring the world together. Evans is married to filmmaker Jonas Elrod. In addition to her day job, she serves as the story editor for “In Deep Shift with Jonas Elrod,” an Oprah Winfrey Network original series. The program profiles different personalities across the country, each on their own spiritual journey. The couple also teamed up to produce “Wake Up,” a documentary that follows their experiences together after Elrod underwent a life-changing series of events. The film, which premiered at the South By Southwest and Tribeca film festivals, was featured as the inaugural episode for Oprah’s “Super Soul Sunday,” for which it won a Daytime Emmy. For Evans, her understanding of honor is a clear and inseparable piece of her existence. “[To have honor is] that my word is rock solid as a human being,” said Evans. “You can trust the face you’re seeing on the front of my head.”
29
C lpaus ss FNeoatteusr e Cam
Brothers Cleve Jackson (’09), Chris Jackson (’02), Chas Jackson (’98) and Cline Jackson (’98) serve as Career Day speakers. 2000
Will Foss (’04) attends a networking lunch for Atlanta alumni at Ted’s Montana Grill in February.
(next reunion 2020)
2004
(next reunion 2019)
Class Agent: Skye Wellesley
Class Agent: Whitney (Smith) Hsu
Jennifer (Poley) Mason has been named vice president of group purchasing for the California Dental Association.
Laura (Draudt) Western and her husband, Matthew, announce the birth of a daughter, Stella Rose, on Sept. 9, 2015. She joins big brother Jason. The family lives in Cartersville, Ga.
Will Thuston Jr. and his wife, Ginger, announce the birth of a son, Robert Luke, on Oct. 11, 2015. The family lives in Birmingham, Ala. 2002
(next reunion 2017)
Class Agent: Miles Wellesley
Tripp Alexander III and his wife, Rosemary, announce the birth of twins, Henry Howard “Ford” IV and John Robert on Feb. 22, 2016. They join big sister Emmaline. The family lives in Birmingham, Ala.
2005
(next reunion 2020)
Class Agents: Madison (McRae) Criswell, Kimberly King, Ford Knight, Brad Large
David Davidson Jr. and his wife, Gina, announce the birth of a son, Max, on Dec. 26, 2015. The family lives in Greenville, S.C. Patrick McShane and his wife, Elizabeth, announce the birth of a daughter, Kate, on Dec. 29, 2015. The family lives in Boston, Mass. Bradley Pierson has been named the 22nd head men’s basketball coach at Sewanee: The University of the South. William Richardson and Harley Yancey (’07) were sworn in as members of the State Bar of Georgia on Nov. 13, 2015. Both are associates at Brinson Askew Berry Seigler Richardson & Davis LLP.
Emmaline, Ford and John, children of Rosemary and Tripp Alexander (’02)
Mary Kate (Watters) Boston (’05) graduates from Leadership Darlington.
30
Andy Gates and his wife, Kelly, announce the birth of a son, William Duke, on Feb 10, 2016. The family lives in Smyrna, Ga.
William Richardson (’05) and Harley Yancey (’07)
Darlington Magazine
Class Notes 2007
(next reunion 2017)
2008
(next reunion 2018)
Class Agents: C.J. Cypress, Christie Doss
Class Agents: Mac Gilliland, Kelly O’Mara
A. J. Evans married Casey Lynn Brooks on April 2, 2016, at St. Paul’s Church in Atlanta. A.J. will graduate from the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University as a Doctor of Medicine in May 2017 with intentions of pursuing a residency in emergency medicine. Casey, who graduated from the same institution this May, intends to pursue a residency in obstetrics and gynecology.
Sara (Pate) Congdon married Christopher Ryan Congdon on Nov. 7, 2015, at Darlington School’s Morris Chapel. The couple lives in Houston, Texas.
Preston Jacobs, John Kagley (’07) and Gregory Thomas (’07) went to Nevada in the fall for Preston’s bachelor weekend. He married Michael Marie Hall in December at Darlington School’s Morris Chapel.
Sarah (Pate) Congdon (’08)
Kim King (’05) talks about nonprofit management on Career Day.
Jennifer (Watford) Deems married Ricky Lee Deems on Oct. 24, 2015, at Burk Farm in Rome, Ga. The couple lives in Tallapoosa, Ala. Kendall (Brooks) Headley married Covert Lee Headley on April 9, 2016, in Rome. Kendall is a Spanish teacher at Hyde Park Schools, and Covert is a software solutions specialist at Dell. The couple lives in Austin, Texas.
Preston Jacobs (’07), John Kagley (’07) and Gregory Thomas (’07) at Red Rock Canyon, Nev. Anna Krueger married Brett Alex Melnikoff on May 29, 2016, in Atlanta. Anna is an M.D. candidate at Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine in Roanoke, Va., and is pursuing a residency in obstetrics and gynecology. Brett, an M.D. candidate at the same institution, is pursuing a residency in general surgery. Will Santoro married Sarah Elizabeth Mayer on May 21, 2016, in Cleveland, Ohio. Will is an account manager for Par Excellence, and Sarah is a marketing consultant with IPSOS Inc. The couple lives in Cincinnati.
Summer 2016
Kendall (Brooks) Headley (’08)
Mary Beth Montgomery (’08) talks with Scott Dozier (’73) at the first of four networking lunches for Atlanta alumni.
31
Campus Feature
Jennie Wright (’99, LD ’16) Living by the Golden Rule
As the legislative counsel for U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), you might say that a directive for being honest and transparent just comes with the territory for Jennie Wright (’99, LD ’16). The idea of making a commitment to being honorable was not something new to the alumna when she first came to Darlington, but it was not something she was used to seeing taught outside of the home. “I’ve always been a rule-follower, so I don’t remember it being something I thought about – getting in trouble was against my character,” said Wright. “Coming from a public school, [honor] wasn’t talked about; it was more something that came from your parents.”
32
A native of Dunwoody, Ga., Wright was a third-generation boarding student at Darlington. During her four years at the Lakeside, she played on the junior varsity tennis team, served as a student tour guide for the Admission Office, and also worked as a resident assistant in Trippeer Hall. She graduated in 1999 with honors. “The art of being an honorable person is living by the Golden Rule, and a lot of that stems from my time at Darlington,” said Wright. “It’s about being honest and trustworthy, earning the trust of others, being considerate of those around me, and knowing how my actions will affect others.” The Washington-based alum holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Georgia, where she was a Presidential Scholar. She went on to earn her J.D. from John Marshall Law School and her L.L.M. in Law and Government from the American University Washington College of Law, where she was a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity and studied abroad in Argentina. She is a member of the Texas State Bar and, as such, can practice in both the District of Columbia and the Lone Star State. “To come to Darlington was the single biggest decision I’ve ever made. It taught me responsibility and time management, and was my first taste of independence,” said Wright. “It forced me to learn good study habits and provided me with that work ethic that carries me through today – putting in the hours it takes to get the job finished.” After working as a research attorney in Texas, she decided she wanted to pursue a career more closely connected with her love of political affairs. After reaching out to Marie (Hodge) Gordon (’99, LD '12), deputy press secretary for U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.), and interviewing for an internship, she landed a gig in his office. Today, Wright works closely with Sen. Inhofe on his Judiciary, Homeland Security, Commerce, Transportation, Water Resources, and Family Issues portfolio, specifically doing research and drafting legislation, talking points,
and official letters, among other duties. As a result, she keeps a finger on the pulse of what is going on with different laws, regulations and court cases. Additionally, she serves as the majority counsel for the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Wright says ethics have been at the forefront of her training and professional development as she has risen up the ranks as an attorney. Graduating from law school, passing the Bar, and working with legislators on a daily basis has been inseparable from the idea of honor. “We have to do things in a bipartisan nature, and part of that is working with the other side and showing them that you respect their positions and that you are going to honor what you say,” she explained. “I have had to work for four years to build that trust, and it can go away quickly if you aren’t doing your due diligence and checking all sides of an issue.” Despite living in the nation’s capital, the alumna has been spotted on campus several times this year already. Wright spoke to students about her profession at Career Day in January and returned the following month to complete the school’s Leadership Darlington program. Additionally, she recently began serving on the Alumni Council and looks forward to also giving back as a part of the Big & Little Sister Program for first-year female boarding students. “While the Honor Code was really important in and of itself, it was really reinforced by the faculty and staff. I think Darlington has a really great legacy of having the right people at the school that embody what it’s trying to instill in the students,” said Wright. “It is important to be a person of integrity if you want to be taken seriously, maintain relationships, and be respected in your field and in your everyday life.”
Darlington Magazine
Class Notes Claire (Davis) McWhorter married Seth Connell McWhorter on Dec.12, 2015, at First Baptist Church of Rome. The couple lives in Atlanta.
2009
(next reunion 2019)
Class Agent: Bess Kelley
Lauren (Dulaney) Hughes married Jared Lane Hughes on Sept. 26, 2015, at the home of her parents in Rome. The couple lives in Rome. 2011
(next reunion 2016
Class Agents: Chandler Holcombe, Charles King
Dani Baker married Kyle Whitfield Wilson on May 21, 2016, in Rome. The couple lives in Tuscaloosa, Ala., where Dani is enrolled in a graduate program at the University of Alabama’s School of Business and Kyle is a project manager for U.S. Pipe.
2012
(next reunion 2017)
Class Agents: Austin Spooner, John Wilhoite, Kelsey Ann Williams
Riah Brand recently studied in Madrid, Spain and Oaxaca, Mexico. Claire (Davis) McWhorter (’08)
Jean Early (’76, LD ’14) talks about accounting on Career Day.
Summer 2016
33
C lpaus ss FNeoatteusr e Cam Hanna Grevelius and Mitchell Kelly Thurston (’14) reconnected with Darlington ESL Director Tara Inman during Tara’s trip to Tampa, Fla., this winter. Both attend at the University of Tampa.
Hanna Grevelius (’14), Tara Inman and Mitchell Kelly Thurston (’14) Hector Picon and some of his classmates reconnected with Head of Summerbell House Reba Barnes at Steak ’n Shake recently.
Hannah Montgomery (’10), Gregory Thomas (’07) and Annual Fund Director Julia Douglas (’07) visit during the Nashville alumni lunch. 2013
(next reunion 2018)
Class Agent: Vacancy
Maria Barragan was elected president of the School of Economics at St. Andrews University in Scotland. 2014
(next reunion 2019)
Class Agent: Vacancy
Jai Burgess and Masato Yoshikawa (’15) reconnected with Darlington ESL Director Tara Inman on her trip to Tampa, Fla., this winter. Both attend the University of Tampa.
William Richardson (’05, LD ’16) attends a Rome-area Alumni Lunch & Learn about “The Power of Play.”
34
Jai Burgess (’14), Tara Inman and Masato Yoshikawa (’15)
Brandon Robinson (’14), Avery Cypress (’14), Hector Picon (’14), Reba Barnes, Jonathan Hicks (’14), Ali Kayahan (’14) and Luke Sikinyi (’14) 2015
(next reunion 2020)
Class Agent: Vacancy
Spencer Fields was named Conference Newcomer of the Year at the SAA Conference Championship in Danville, Ky. He is a member of the Rhodes College cross country team, which earned the USTFCCCA Team Academic Award this year. Matthew Heiken was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2015 semester at Washington University in St. Louis, where he is enrolled in the School of Engineering & Applied Science. To qualify for the Dean’s List in the School of Engineering & Applied Science, students must earn a semester grade-point average of 3.6 or above and be enrolled in at least 12 graded units.
Darlington Magazine
Community News Amelie Jacob writes: “Darlington has definitely been an experience that has influenced me to come to Namibia! At the moment, I am volunteering at a primary school and helping out mostly in first and second grade. The classes have about 45 students. Working with so many children can be exhausting but I enjoy every minute of it.”
Dylan Paracka ('16) and his classmates sing a hymn at Baccalaureate.
Tia Tay ('16) and Osato Eke ('16) enjoy snow cones at the Senior Picnic.
Members of the Class of 2016 celebrate their newfound alumni status.
Advancement staffers Barton Lowrey (’05) and Julia Douglas (’07) have dinner with recent alumnae Nadin Kosedag (’15), Hannah Harper (’15), and Katie Hutchins (’15), all of whom attend Georgia Tech.
Amelie Jacob (’15) and her students Faculty Notes Kila McCann is co-chair of Queen’s University’s Arts and Science Undergraduate Society’s Video Committee. Bruce Watterson received the Charles R. O’Malley Award for A Lifetime of Teaching Excellence in Journalism at the Columbia Scholastic Press Association’s spring convention in March in New York City. The award recognizes a sustained record of outstanding teaching in support of collegiate and student journalists or student publishing.
Calling all alumni… Distinguished Alumnus Nominations Send us your nominations for the 2017 Distinguished Alumnus Award. Established by the Alumni Council in 1983, this award recognizes alumni who have achieved prominence in their profession and/or community and who have demonstrated loyalty to Darlington. Please e-mail your nomination to vvincent@darlingtonschool.org by Sept. 1, 2016 and include the following information:
Alumni Council Nominations Send us your nomination for the 2017-2019 term. The Darlington School Alumni Council is the governing body of the Alumni Association. Council members serve for a three-year term and are nominated by current Alumni Council members and the Association membership at large. Please e-mail your nomination to vvincent@darlingtonschool.org by Sept. 1, 2016.
Name and class year of nominee Reason(s) for nomination Your name and class year
Summer 2016
35
Cam F eoarti ua rme I np u Mse m
Dr. Joe Stukes (’44) Remembering a friend
An avid history buff and eternal lover of knowledge, Dr. Joe Stukes (’4 4) was a proud Darlington alumnus, a former Darlington teacher, the parent of an alum, and a stalwart class agent. “He was an honorable fellow. We constantly talked social affairs and politics – he also loved sports, and there was just a very broad reach in his interests,” said the Hon. Jack Etheridge (’44), one of Stukes’ roommates in the dorms and a fellow Davidson College undergrad. “I found him to always be curious, and he loved history most of all.” It was his parents who were the guiding force in sending the young Joe by train to Rome from Manning, S.C., choosing Darlington so that he would have the opportunity to reach his full potential. Their hope, specifically, was that through his college-preparatory education he would be able to get into a good school and excel. And excel he did – later graduating from Davidson with his first degree in just three years. While at Darlington, the boarding student was involved on campus as a member of The Darlingtonian staff, was in Grail Club, played intramural and touch football, and served as a proctor in the dormitory.
36
It wouldn’t be long after his time in North Carolina that he would return to the Lakeside, accepting a position as a history and English teacher. This time, he brought with him a bride who would be employed by the school as the librarian. “Darlington always held a special place of honor in his heart. He was close to a lot of his buddies there,” said Joe’s wife of 63 years, Courtney, who met her future husband while both were working at Rabun Gap Nacoochee School. “He felt very close to his teachers – Dr. Wilcox, in particular. Dr. Wilcox was very giving and very interested in learning and teaching other people.” Husband and wife brought two sons into the world while working at Darlington, welcoming Taylor in 1956 and Randy (’76) in 1958 to their on-campus apartment in the building that was then referred to as “Old Main.” “He didn’t have much of a hobby outside of reading, traveling and learning,” said Courtney. “He read all the time, so much so that he absolutely ruined books because he would underline, and re-read, and re-read.” While teaching in Rome, the lifelong learner earned a master’s in history from Emory University. Upon the conclusion of his “second tour” at his alma mater in 1958, Stukes and his family relocated so he could pursue his doctorate in history from the University of South Carolina. In the years that followed came sons George and Gordon. Over the course of his career in academia, Stukes spent time as a history
professor at Erskine College, where an endowment was later given in his name, he was recognized as an honorary alumnus, and also inducted into the Academic Hall of Fame. While there, he established a semester-long study abroad program and ultimately led over 70 tours to Europe. He also taught at Presbyterian Junior College and Lander College, but it was at Francis Marion University that he retired in 1996 after a successful 22-year career in the history department. There, he was given the prestigious title of Distinguished Professor. “When you’re a good teacher, you’re also a bit of a ham,” said his wife. “Somebody asked him once to do a Martin Luther impression, and it became a little hobby that he did on the side. He really loved doing impersonations of different historical characters.” Stukes was a dedicated volunteer in both his town and his state, truly taking “Service Beyond Self” to heart. Noteworthy in his community involvement is service on the South Carolina Governor’s Advisory Commission on Human Relations, as president of the South Carolina Historical Association, as president of the South Carolina Christian Action Council, and as an elder in the Presbyterian Church. “It was just part of his nature to give back,” said Courtney. “He was very generous with his time – it was just who he was. He learned some of that from Darlington.” Her husband not only received the lauded South Carolina Governor’s Award in Humanities, but was also honored with Keys to the Cities of both Florence and Marion. Stukes’ final visit to Darlington was in 2009, when he addressed the community at chapel during Homecoming Week. He regaled the audience with stories from his time in Rome as a student, a newlywed, a teacher and a new father. And without fail, he shared some of his signature impersonations, too. The devoted historian passed away in Florence on Jan. 12 at the age of 88. “There’s no question that Darlington had an effect on his life,” said Etheridge. “And no doubt, Joe Stukes was committed to his school.”
Darlington Magazine
C o m Imn uM n iet m y oNr ei awms
1933
James Platt died Dec. 12, 2015
1948
Perry Borom died May 5, 2016
1961
Chris Scott died Dec. 16, 2015
2005
John Newton died May 9, 2016
1938
Joe Massie died in October 2015
1951
Bill DuPre died May 13, 2016
1962
John Ross died Oct. 7, 2015
1942
Robert Purinton died Feb. 2, 2016
1952
Bill Puryear died Dec. 27, 2014
1944
Henry Sevier died March 4, 2016
1954
Harry Heinitsh died Feb. 17, 2016
Dana Davis died April 26, 2016
Ray Jones died Nov. 26, 2015
1956
Paul Lombardi died Jan. 22, 2016
1971
1968
Cliff Moore died Nov. 10, 2015
Joe Stukes died Jan. 12, 2016
1945
Art Hendrix died Jan. 19, 2016
1946
Bryan Storey died Dec. 3, 2015
1958
John Akridge Jr. died May 2, 2016
1972
Del Parker died Feb. 16, 2016
John Powers died July 27, 2015
1973
Steve Tolleson died Nov. 27, 2015
1947
Ray Cunningham died Oct. 27, 2015
1959
Carter Strickland died Jan. 11, 2016
1980
Davis Shy died April 18, 2016
Charlie Johnston died June 7, 2015
1960
Bob Glenn died Feb. 8, 2016
1984
John Rose died May 7, 2016
Former Faculty
Pete Pedersen died Oct. 21, 2015
Not Pictured – 1941: William Browning died April 27, 2016 1948: Randy Owsley died May 12, 2015 1955: Bobby Brame died June 22, 2015 1957: Tom Proctor died March 3, 2016 1969: Julia (Hilburn) Dent died March 14, 2016 1975: Joe Graddy died Oct. 25, 2015 Former Faculty: Patricia Daugherty died July 26, 2015 Memorials published in this edition were reported to the Advancement Office prior to May 17, 2016. Additional memorials can be found on the alumni web page at www.darlingtonschool.org.
Summer 2016
37
Campus Feature
Non Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Rome GA 30161 Permit No. 501
1014 Cave Spring Road • Rome, Georgia 30161-4700
THE ANNUAL FUND IS Dr. Steve Wilhoite (’73) has always been one of Darlington’s biggest cheerleaders. A proud alumnus, a loyal volunteer, the father of two graduates, and – most recently – a retiring trustee, Wilhoite wears his purple proudly. But his service to Darlington began long before he joined the Board in May 2010. “Steve has volunteered with the Annual Fund for the past 26 years,” said Julie (Wilson) Lucas (’97), director of development. “For the last six, we have been fortunate enough to benefit from his leadership as Annual Fund chairman. His energy is nonstop, which creates excitement among our volunteers and donors each year. Steve truly loves Darlington and anyone who knows him knows that.” Julius Shaw (’72), chairman of the Board’s Advancement Committee, said Wilhoite’s excitement is contagious. “In his six years as chairman, Steve has made over 1,000 calls and raised more than $6 million,” Shaw said. “He has attended over 35 phonathons, including the largest phonathon in Darlington’s history, which raised over $100,000 in one night.”
38
Wilhoite has also served as a class agent for the last 21 years, working to ensure that his classmates from the Class of 1973 stay connected to each other and to the school. As a Darlington student, the young Wilhoite was involved in basketball, track, cross country, cheerleading and chorus. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and his D.D.S. from the University of Tennessee at Memphis, graduating with honors from both institutions. He practiced dentistry in Chattanooga for three years before moving to Atlanta in 1984 and opening East Cobb Dental Services. Five years later, he married his wife, Ann. The couple had two children, John (’12) and Elizabeth (’14). “When John was ready to start pre-K, the Wilhoites moved to Cartersville, Ga., so that their children could attend Darlington,” Lucas said. “I always knew that I wanted my children to go to Darlington, but listening to Steve talk about John and Elizabeth’s experiences here made me even more excited for my own children to start.
Dr. Steve Wilhoite (’73) “Steve will tell you time and again that he gives back to Darlington because of our teachers – because of the difference teachers made not only in his life, but in the lives of his children,” Lucas continued. “He attributes so much of his family’s successes to their time spent here, and he is so appreciative. Steve wants to do all he can to ensure that generations of students are able to have these same transformational experiences at Darlington.” To learn more about the Annual Fund or to make your gift for the 2016-17 campaign online, simply visit www.darlingtonschool. org/give by May 31, 2017.
Darlington Magazine