Lakeside Legends Alumni reflect on the teachers and faculty who transformed their lives Da r l i ngton ’s a bi l it y to prov i de students with the finest collegepreparatory experience available rests on the strength of our faculty and their ability to inspire young minds. When alumni return to the Lakeside for Alumni Weekend and other events throughout the year, conversation almost always turns to the legendary teachers who shaped – and often times transformed – their lives. These people have been the backbone of this institution for over 100 years and will remain so for centuries to come.
“It was a very unique and rewarding experience to grow up with both of my parents teaching at Darlington. In addition, I would have to say that Rob Davis (’85) and my other running coaches were certainly influential. They took a lot of time out of their own lives to help us train both mentally and physically for our events. Phil Titus was another inspiration. He really focused on the individual interests of his students, always challenging us to set goals that would position us for success.”
Kristi Buice (’05) Athens, Ga. Pictured with her father, Rick Buice
“Some of my best memories involve Jim Van Es, my basketball coach. He went out of his way to make all of us feel like a family. He was understanding and kind, but he pushed us when we needed it. I learned a lot of life lessons from him. Another teacher who comes to mind is Sally Rudert (’66T), one of my math teachers. I remember having a small, intimate class environment. She was a gentle spirit in the classroom and seemed to have the innate ability to convey the concepts in a way that were easily understood. Nowadays, I teach school, too, and I try to emulate the wonderful qualities I saw in people like Mr. Van Es and Mrs. Rudert. All my teachers at Darlington made me feel like their own child, and that’s the way I try to treat my students.”
Rhonda (Williamson) Childs (’80) Rome, Ga.
Winter 2011
11